Detritus
Issue #505
Week of June 15, 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

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*** LET IT BE KNOWN ***
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-Sorry we're late this week. Time's been flyin' by over here. - Tim

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*** PRESS RELEASE #1 ***
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-Magic Circle Music Update

Thunder Online! New E.P. On MP3!

THUNDER IN THE SKY, the new E.P. from Manowar, is now available for
sale online in high-quality, DMR-free, MP3 format only at The Kingdom
Of Steel Online Store. Click HERE to buy!

http://store.magiccirclemusic.com/product/976/Manowar-MP3-Thunder-In-The-Sky-Hi-\
Fi-00---Entire-CD

The downloadable version of the E.P. contains the exact same content
as the version on sale during the tour: "Thunder In The Sky," "God Or
Man," "Let The Gods Decide," "Father," "Die With Honor," "The Crown
And The Ring" (2008) and versions of "Father "recorded in German,
Italian, Hungarian, Romanian, Bulgarian, Norwegian, Spanish, French,
Greek, Turkish, Polish, Japanese, Croatian, Portuguese and Finnish.

Keep posted to your Official Manowar Web sites for more information on
The Asgard Saga, Magic Circle Festival III and The Death To Infidels
Tour!

The Fans Have Waited Long Enough! New HolyHell CD On MP3!

HolyHell fans have been patient enough! Now the band wants to reward
them with pre-sales of their long awaited debut album! Even before the
self-titled CD is officially released on June 26, 2009, HolyHell will
offer it online in high-quality, DRM-free, MP3 format only at The
Kingdom Of Steel Online Store. Click HERE to buy!

http://store.magiccirclemusic.com/category/171/HolyHell

The downloadable version of the CD contains the exact same content and
features epic material set to climb straight up the charts! Track list
includes: "Wings Of Light," "Prophecy," "Revelations," "Eclipse," "The
Fall," "Angel Of Darkness," "Holy Water," "Mephisto," "Gates Of Hell,"
"Resurrection," "Last Vision," "Apocalypse," "Armageddon."

So get your HolyHell before anyone else does! Keep updated on HolyHell
via official Web sites: http://www.holyhell.com/ ,
http://www.magiccirclemusic.com/ .

Magic Circle Music
http://www.magiccirclemusic.com/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #2 ***
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-Warrant Update

"The Sweet Spot"
Steven Sweet Road Report: Comanche Nation Casino, Lawton, OK. May,
16th 2009

This was a strange trip to say the least. As a band, you become
accustomed to traveling together which equates to spending time
together in close quarters most of the time. Four of us live in the
"Greater" Los Angeles area; one in the San Fernando Valley, one in the
Foothills between the valley and Pasadena, one in the Hills of Anaheim
and one in the lovely wine country a little further South (okay two of
us live in the "Greater" Los Angeles -- not sure why they refer to it
as "Greater" because I've been to many places on this globe and L.A.
is not necessarily what I would call "Greater" than any place else,
maybe "Bigger," or "Stranger" or full of more "Fake-pretenders" --
yes). Let's begin again... two of us live around L.A. and two of us
live in the O.C. (Orange County -- and yes, they are rich and fabulous
beyond all comprehension -- the television show is spot-on!). Now the
fifth of Warrant and quite possibly the most travel savvy of us all is
a desert dweller -- Arizona to be more specific. Why am I telling you
this, well, because there are occasions when we don't all fly out of
the same airport (LAX = "Los Angeles Xairport"). For this particular
Warrant outing we came in from three different locales which meant we
were.... "dun, dun DUUUUUUUU"... traveling separately, not only were
we traveling from different ports of air, we were flying into
different cities all together. I KNOW -- WTF Right?! Jerry and I flew
from Burbank's Bob Hope Airport ("let me tell ya something..." that
was my Bob Hope impression... loses something in translation, not to
mention when it's only written word without audio, sorry) directly
into Lawton, out-ternational airport (since it's a small airport not
sure what to call it when it's not International). Joey and Erik flew
from Ontario (California, NOT Canada -- that would be stupid since
Ontario Canada, albeit the most populous and second-largest province
of Canada, is in no way near Southern California let alone the O.C. --
NOT an acronym for Ontario Canada) into Oklahoma City (or the O.C.,
not Orange County or even Ontario Canada, that would be really, I MEAN
REALLY stupid because then they would have to get to Lawton Oklahoma
by show time the next day which would be a pain, not to mention
horrible travel planning). Robert travelled by Camel to Oklahoma City,
which is what Desert-dwellers do. (Sure, I made that last part up
because I'm sure you know that Robert doesn't even own a Camel -- it's
an Alpaca Llama, which as we all know don't take kindly to people
jumping on their backs, as I found out the hard way once -- they're
cute, but really quite nasty when provoked). So, there we all are in
different Oklahoma cities (not that there are more than one city in
Oklahoma named Oklahoma City, but different cities in Oklahoma) the
night before the show at the Comanche Nation Casino in Lawton,
Oklahoma -- which turns out, you don't even need a passport to get
into, just a willingness to throw your money away in exchange for some
free drinks... "ca-chingg" (cash register sound)... "burp" (free drink
sound).

Another fun detail about this particular trip was that we were
accompanied by the Brown brothers, Ryan and Joe. Ryan is our fearless
get'er done guy who handles various duties like production detail,
travel detail, food detail, drink detail, merchandise detail, can I
get some duct tape please detail, etc. (fun fact: Ryan did a summer
tour of duty with the "Girls Gone Wild" party bus -- woo hoo, which
doesn't explain at all why he came back to Warrant -- or DOES it????).
Joe is Ryan's brother who is an accomplished sound engineer, currently
taking a break from Extreme travel (not "extreme" extreme, as in "Man
VS Wild" stuff where he has to find his way back from the wilds of
South America with only a pair of socks and some swizzle sticks). What
I mean to say is that he's usually out on the road with the band
Extreme (incidentally, Joe is a man of few words, ironic
considering.... never mind, you see where I was going?). So here we
are with Ryan and Joe, "The Brown Brothers" (they are both White
Italian boys from Boston -- NOT actually Brown-Brothers which would be
a redundant nick name anyhow) they are quite something to witness,
they aren't twins, there is an age difference of about 3 years but
there remains something eerily twin-like about them nonetheless. Their
mannerisms and their pattern of speech are incredibly similar as is
the way that the lights glint off their neatly polished heads --
though they have two distinctly different physical appearances from
the cranium down. Ryan bears the appearance of a man who might dabble
in Cage Fighting now and then (does one really "dabble" in things like
Cage Fighting? Dabbling is better suited to activities like baking and
needlepoint, even pharmacology but not mashing someone else's face
into a bloody chain-link cage while twisting their arm behind their
back with a forearm-breaking knee-drop maneuver), while Joe looks as
though he has run the Boston Marathon, more than once in his lifetime
(which spanned the mark of 40 years on this exact weekend) or perhaps
more than once in the same day even. Great guys to be around and to
work with, I consider myself blessed that even with all our
differences as a band and as a people we manage to pull together to
bring the Warrant show to life each chance we get, even if it means
dealing with sometimes difficult travel arrangements (referring to our
6 hours of missed flights and delays returning home from this weekend)
Note to self: avoid out-ternational airports if given the choice!

I realize I haven't even mentioned the show. Here I am babbling on
about different O.C. locations, airports and Brown brothers and
haven't even mentioned the show... it was fun, great crowd -- thank
you Comanche Nation and all your Comanche nationals (no passport
needed), and of course all you Warrant fans, for without you... I'd
have no one to purge my writing upon. Gotta go for now -- I am
expecting a case of O.C.D. shortly (no, not Obsessive Compulsive
Disorder -- I am expecting a delivery of Orange Crush Diet -- it's
very hard to come by, most stores don't stock it anymore, you have to
special order online). Okay, that was really dumb I realize that, and
my apologies go out to each and everyone of you who spent all this
time reading through my aimless text only to be whapped with something
like that at the end. So I will leave you with this... a little
something in honor of Father's Day:

The memories of my family outings are still a source of strength to me
and have informed who I am today. I remember we'd all pile into the
car (I forget what kind it was) and drive and drive. I'm not sure
where we'd go, but I think there were some trees there, maybe some
water too. The smell of something was strong in the air as we played
whatever sport we played. I remember a bigger, older guy we called
"Dad." We'd eat some stuff, or not, and then I think we went home at
some point. I guess some things never leave you.

Happy Father's Day Dad's -- you know who you are (or maybe you don't?)

Steven

WARRANT Tour Dates

Jun 25 - Hard Rock Hotel - Orlando, FL
July 04 - Toyota Park - Bridgeview, IL
July 10 - Rocklahoma - Pryor, OK
July 21 - Chameleon Club - Lancaster, PA
July 22 - Inner City Harbor Amphitheater - Syracuse, NY
July 23 - Crocodile Rock Cafe - Allentown, PA
Aug 14 - Galaxy Concert Theater - Santa Ana, CA
Aug 15 - Storm Stadium - Lake Elsinore, CA
Aug 20 - Rock Gone Wild - Algona, IA
Aug 29 - DuQuion State Fair - DuQuion, IL
Oct 02 - Northern Lights - Clifton Park, NY
Oct 03 - Mohegan Sun Casino - Uncasville, CT
Oct 09 - Brixton South Bay - Redondo Beach, CA
Oct 10 - The Canyon Club - Agoura Hills, CA

WARRANT
PO Box 301
Murrieta CA 92564
info@...
http://www.warrantweb.net/

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*** PRESS RELEASE #3 ***
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-Nightwish's END OF AN ERA Now Available On Blu-Ray Disc

END OF AN ERA is a massive documentation of Nightwish's incredible
power as a live band. The highly anticipated Blu-Ray version of this
popular concert contains footage from the final show of the legendary
ONCE tour (and the historic last performance with ex-singer Tarja
Turunen)!

A must have for Nightwish's rabid fanbase, this crystal clear quality
will be the beginning of a new era indeed for metal fans worldwide!

DVD Track list:
1. Dark Chest Of Wonders
2. Planet Hell
3. Ever Dream
4. The Kinslayer
5. Phantom Of The Opera
6. The Siren
7. Sleeping Sun
8. High Hopes
9. Bless The Child
10. Wishmaster
11. Slaying The Dreamer
12. Kuolema Tekee Taitelijan
13. Nemo
14. Ghost Love Score
15. Stone People
16. Creek Mary's Blood
17. Over The Hills And Far Away
18. Wish I Had An Angel

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

Watchmen Signal The Big Push From Z

Watchmen's critically acclaimed debut will be unleashed on June 29th.
Fans of Whitesnake, Burning Rain, etc., should seriously check out
this release you wont be disappointed. A Special preview track can
currently be found at http://www.myspace.com/zrockrecordsuk . All
copies purchased direct at http://www.zrecords.net/ will also come
with a special 10 track promo compilation.

Von Groove And Eden To Tour U.K.

Following on from Z Rock 09 we are proud to announce a Z double
whammy: Von Groove and Eden will tour the U.K. this October in support
of both bands' forthcoming releases for Z.

Dates confirmed so far...

October 10th - JB's - Dudley
October 11th - The Engine Room - Skelmersdale

[Tickets on sale from June 19th from X Records, Bolton / Vibes, Bury /
Music 90, Wigan / Probe, Liverpool / Action Records, Preston and
online at http://www.zrecords.net/ .]

Watchmen Launch And Preview Night This Saturday

A special Watchmen playback will take place at the Salutation Inn,
Nottingham this Saturday June 20th between 9 p.m. - 9:45 p.m. Make
sure you check out this amazing album which will be released on June
29th. There will also be a chance to win a Z Records baseball shirt.
After the playback you'll be able to stay for the classic and melodic
rock night held by our good friends at Frontiers rock nights.

Eden Have Confirmed For May 7th 2010

The lineup for Z Rock 2010 on May 7th and 8th has another addition.
Z's very own Eden have confirmed their involvement on the Friday night
of May 7th. The lineup now looks as follows:

May 7th: VON GROOVE, EDEN
May 8th: THE STORM, STEVE AUGERI, ARABIA

Further acts will be announced shortly. Those still wishing to take
advantage of the special offer to Z Rock 09 attendees only are
reminded that the ticket discount is only available for a few more
weeks at which point tickets will revert to full price and general
sale. For details e-mail zrockagency@....

Eden Join House Of Lords For U.K. Tour

Eden will be hitting the road with House Of Lords during September for
four days, three dates are confirmed so far...

Thurs. Sept. 3rd - tbc
Fri. Sept. 4th - Coroporation - Sheffield
Sat. Sept. 5th - The Engine Room - Skelmersdale

[Tickets on sale from June 19th from X Records, Bolton / Vibes, Bury /
Music 90, Wigan / Probe, Liverpool / Action Records, Preston and
online at http://www.zrecords.net/ .]

Sun. Sept. 6th - JB's - Dudley

Tickets for all shows are priced at £17.50.

Z Records And Z Rock 09 Shirts Now Available Online

The following shirts and baseball shirt are now available via mail-
order priced at £15 incl p&p [to U.K. addresses]. The Z Rock 09 shirt
is also available in babydoll format as well as all sizes. To order e-
mail the size and quantity you require to mark@.... Visit
http://www.myspace.com/zrockfest for close-up views.

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

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*** PRESS RELEASE #5 ***
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-Napalm Records News

Alestorm & Tyr: Chartbreakers

The Scottish bucaneers have hoisted the black sails, entered the
German LP charts, and made it to the sensational number 60! In
addition, the British Independent Album Charts and Rock/Metal Album
Charts welcome Alestorm at number 14 and 17 respectively. The band and
Napalm Records raise their rum-filled mugs and send out a hearty
"Yarr!" to all pirates and landlubbers who made it possible!

http://www.myspace.com/alestorm

The vikings are in close pursuit and land their dragonships at number
88 of the German LP charts. In accordance with the title of their new
anthem "Hold The Heathen Hammer High," the Faroese warriors and Napalm
Records thank the fans for their incredible support!

http://www.tyr.net/
http://www.myspace.com/tyr1

Mortemia: New To Napalm Records

Gothic Metal icon Morten Veland (Tristania, Sirenia) has inked a deal
with Napalm Records for his new band Mortemia. Morten promises his
fans a sweeping listening experience, which will follow the path of
Tristania's masterpiece BEYOND THE VEIL. The first songs stay true to
his promise and offer beautiful melodies and bombastic choir passages,
thus creating the perfect blend of traditional Gothic Metal and modern
elements.

"I am happy to have signed to Napalm Records for my new project
Mortemia. I am looking forward to the cooperation with the label and
to bring out more music to all the metal fans out there."

Glittertind & Stream Of Passion: Further Chart Entries

The Folk Metal band has sky-rocketed into the Norwegian national album
charts with their latest offering LANDKJENNING and made it to number
21! Even the Norwegian international LP charts are not safe from the
folk melodies and welcome Glittertind at number 56. A big "Thank You"
to all supporters!

http://www.glittertind.net/
http://www.myspace.com/glittertind

Stream Of Passion caused quite a stir by entering the Dutch LP Charts!
Their latest album THE FLAME WITHIN made it to a spectacular number
57! In addition, THE FLAME WITHIN made it to number 2 of the
Alternatice Charts. The band and label thank everyone involved for the
tremendous support! Fans should make sure to keep checking the band's
Web site for upcoming live dates and other events.

http://www.streamofpassion.com/
http://www.myspace.com/streamofpassionband

Trail Of Tears: Special Feature

German webzine sounds2move.de has posted an in-depth Trail Of Tears
online feature. In addition to reviews of each release of the Gothic
Metal pioneers, Ronny and Cathrine comment on all songs of their
latest album BLOODSTAINED ENDURANCE. Fans may check out the special
HERE:

http://www.sounds2move.de/Stories/trailoftears_bse_special/trailoftears_bse_spec\
ial_09.htm

http://www.trailoftears.no/
http://www.myspace.com/trailoftearsmetal

COMING IN SUMMER 2009:

July
Ahab CD - THE DIVINITY OF OCEANS - Nautik Funeral Doom Metal
24.07.2009
Syrach CD - A DARK BURIAL - Doom Metal 24.07.2009
Leaves' Eyes MCD - "My Destiny" - Gothic Metal 24.07.2009

August
Saltatio Mortis CD+DVD - WER WIND SAT... - Medieval Rock 28.08.2009
Leaves' Eyes CD - NJORD - Gothic Metal 28.08.2009
Schelmish CD - DIE HASSLICHEN KINDER - Medieval Rock 28.08.2009

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

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-Radiant Records: News From Neal Morse!

Hello,

How are you doing? We are in Germany and are having a great time! Neal
played at Sweden Rock and then we were in London for a week; now we
are back in good old Germany and are excited about what is coming up!

The Get Closer weekend is THIS WEEKEND! We are thrilled to be having
these meetings here in the beautiful mountains outside Cologne,
Germany in the city of Bergneustadt (Translated: new mountain city).

Sue and I (Cherie Morse) are considering cooking some food between the
meetings and it will be a good time to just hang out.

Please let us know if you are coming so we can get an estimate of how
many people to cook for. Email: matthiasstegmann@...

Here are the details:

Get Closer Weekend
June 20th - June 21st
Ev. Gemeindezentrum Bergneustadt
Breslauerstr. 20 a
51702 Bergneustadt
Web site: http://www.ev-kirche-bergneustadt.de

Start each day: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Break: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
next service time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Finish each day: 8 p.m.

If someone needs a hotel room for the weekend check out
http://www.feste-neustadt.de (a very nice hotel in the historical old
part of the town approx 5 min. by car from the get closer location) or
http://www.booking.com/ .

We have a new worship night just added in Hamburg! Here are the
details:

IBC Hamburg, on Friday, July 10 at 7 p.m.
Address: IBC Hamburg, c/o FEG-Holstenwall, Michaelispassage 1
20459 Hamburg

I guess that's all for right now. We'll keep you updated!

Take care,

Cherie Morse

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-Foghat Goes Gold With Rhino's BEST OF CD, Will Tour Throughout Summer

British classic rockers Foghat continue to experience an incredible
resurgence throughout the world -- but especially the U.S., where
their 16-track compilation, THE BEST OF FOGHAT, recently obtained Gold
certification (500,000 copies sold).

The collection, which was originally issued in 1989, includes all of
Foghat's hits and rock radio standards, including such anthems as
"Slow Ride," "I Just Want To Make Love To You," "Fool For The City,"
"Drivin' Wheel," and "Ride, Ride, Ride," among others.

As a result of this latest landmark accomplishment in the history of
Foghat, the band -- which consists of Charlie Huhn (vocals, guitar),
Bryan Bassett (guitar), Craig MacGregor (bass), and Roger Earl (drums)
-- recently received gold plaques for THE BEST OF FOGHAT, presented by
DJ Adam Furious from the New Hampshire radio station WGIR ROCK 101 and
Noisy SOD management.

This is the group's eleventh gold or platinum award overall. Footage
of the event can be viewed here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppUsvcy8C_8

"My wife told me that I could have a new Aston Martin with my next
gold record," says Earl, "But apparently this one doesn't count! But
on a serious note, I am very grateful to our fans -- both old and new.
It's so cool to see all of those young faces out there, and showing
them how a bunch of old bastards can really rock. And to still be
rockin' with my co-captain, Craig MacGregor, after 35 years, and
especially to Charlie and Bryan. They are such a blast to play with,
and they had some big shoes to fill. And in the immortal words of
Lonesome Dave, 'We're gonna roll 'til we're old, and rock 'til we
drop.' Thanks!"

While MacGregor and Earl are the longest-tenured Foghat members in the
lineup (all the way back to the '70s), both Huhn and Bassett have been
Foghat members for nearly a full decade by this point, and for their
contribution for keeping the Foghat legacy alive, also received gold
plaques for THE BEST OF FOGHAT. Much can be attributed to Foghat's
long-lasting popularity and increased album/ticket sales of late, as
the quartet continues to tour relentlessly -- as evidenced by such
strong recent live releases LIVE II [2007] and LIVE AT THE BLUES
WAREHOUSE [2009], and strong concert reviews. Foghat has also reached
a whole generation of young fans due to their all-time classic road
anthem, "Slow Ride," being the first song on the popular "Guitar Hero
III" video game, in addition to recently being sung by Adam Lambert
and Allison Iraheta on "American Idol" to millions of viewers, as well
as being used in various commercials (Honda Odyssey, Carl's Jr., Ace
Hardware) and movies ("Wild Hogs"). And Foghat refuses to stand still,
as the group continues to tour -- as evidenced by their live summer
and fall schedule -- and is hard at work on a blues CD and a new DVD,
both of which will be issued by the end of year.

Foghat U.S. Live Dates:

WED 6/17/2009 - San Diego, CA - The Paddock Concert Series
FRI 6/19/2009 - Chicago, IL - Beverly Arts Center
SAT 6/20/2009 - Oswego, IL - Prairie Festival
SAT 6/27/2009 - Festus, MO - Municipal Airport
WED 7/1/2009 - Milwaukee, WI - Summerfest - Clasisc Rock Stage
FRI 7/3/2009 - Avon, CO - Avon Town Park
SAT 7/4/2009 - Pennsauken, NJ - Cooper River Park
THU 7/9/2009 - Penticton, BC (Canada)- So. Okanagan Event Centre
FRI 7/10/2009 - Abbotsford, BC (Canada) - Abbotsford Entertainment &
Sports Center
THU 7/16/2009 - Walker, MN - Moondance Jam 18
FRI 7/17/2009 - Sloan, IA - Winnavegas Casino
SAT 7/18/2009 - Modesto, CA - Xclamation Festival
SAT 7/25/2009 - Clatskanie, OR - Biker Rally - Run 21
FRI 7/31/2009 - Aurora, IL - Downtown Alive! Rocks The Fox
SAT 8/1/2009 - Billings, MT - Bones Brewing Pub
MON 8/3/2009 - Sturgis, SD - Broken Spoke Saloon County Line
FRI 8/7/2009 - Pittspurgh, PA - South Park Amphitheatre
SAT 8/8/2009 - Kettering, OH - Fraze Pavilion For The Performing Arts
SUN 8/9/2009 - Scituate, MA - Scituate Harbor Heritage Fest
SAT 8/15/2009 - Elizabethtown, KY - Freeman Lake Park
SAT 9/5/2009 - Omaha, NE - Septemberfest - Salute To Labor
MON 9/7/2009 - Denver, CO - A Taste Of Colorado
SAT 9/12/2009 - Hot Springs, AR - Hot Springs Rally - Biker Event
FRI 9/18/2009 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Casino (2 shows)
SAT 9/19/2009 - West Springfield, MA - The Big "E"
SAT 10/10/2009 - Gulf Shores, AL - 33rd Annual National Shrimp
Festival
SAT 10/17/2009 - Ormond Beach, FL - Broken Spoke Saloon
SUN 10/18/2009 - Stuart, FL - Lyric, Theatre
FRI 2/5/2010 - Morristown, NJ - The Community Theatre

http://www.foghat.net/
http://www.myspace.com/Foghat1

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-Seventh Rize Inks A Worldwide Deal On Perris Records

Perris Records is pleased to announce the worldwide signing of Seventh
Rize, a Texas hard rock band that will release their FULL MOON CD this
summer. The CD is now available for pre-order at Perris Records' Web
site, http://www.perrisrecords.com/ .

Seventh Rize was formed in the Fall of 1991 and hails from the rural
oil fields of West Texas. Averaging over 200 shows per year, Seventh
Rize headlined in clubs and festivals, opened numerous major concerts
and was a featured artist on several regional radio stations and
publications. Seventh Rize has performed shows with the likes of
Warrant, FireHouse and White Lion... not to mention several headlining
events, including a VH1 special, along with numerous in-store
appearances. Seventh Rize also appeared at Rocklahoma '08! Seventh
Rize began the next logical step... writing new material. The core
writing sessions went extremely well and the band decided to bring
back Bobby Rock to produce the new album, FULL MOON. The entire
recording/mixing/mastering process for FULL MOON was spread between
Texas and Los Angeles. Seventh Rize worked with an outside writer --
namely Bruce Turgon from Foreigner -- a chemistry which proved
successful! The band worked night and day on FULL MOON to live up to
its motto, "Let The Music Do The Talking." Once FULL MOON was
complete, Seventh Rize began searching for the "right" label to
promote it. The band was set on finding a label that shared their
vision and truly lived for rock 'n' roll music! They found these
qualities in Perris Records and signed with the label in April 2009.
The first single, also the title track, will hit airwaves soon and
FULL MOON is set for a nationwide release on July 14, 2009! Seventh
Rize will be heavily touring in support of the FULL MOON from coast to
coast...and maybe beyond! Whatever the case, Seventh Rize is prepared
to deliver a unique Arena Rock Experience!

Seventh Rize co-founder/drummer Sulli states "I speak for myself and
the entire Seventh Rize organization when I say that we very excited
to join the Perris Family! Perris Records has a rich history of
signing and promoting some amazing groups... and Seventh Rize is
honored to join the ranks. Tom Mathers is a stand up guy with a
serious work ethic. I can honestly say that Perris is the perfect
match for Seventh Rize and the only label I trust to handle our newest
recording, FULL MOON. Seventh Rize looks forward to a long, productive
relationship with Tom and Perris Records!"

In response to numerous inquiries about the release of Full Moon on
July 14th and tour dates to support it, Seventh Rize is excited to
announce that they will hit the road for a limited number of exclusive
dates with friend Mark Slaughter of SLAUGHTER!

The Brothers In Arms Tour - An Evening With Seventh Rize And Mark
Slaughter will only hit a small number of selected markets and
promises to burn the roof down... and keep ya Up All Night! The first
four shows of the tour have been officially announced:

July
15 - The Music Vault - Harker Heights, TX
16 - River Stage Complex - San Angelo, TX
17 - Tequila Jungle - Lubbock, TX
18 - Dos Amigos - Odessa, TX

These shows will not only celebrate the release of FULL MOON, but they
will also serve as a way for the band to help create more awareness of
St. Jude Children's Hospital.

As stated by Sulli, drummer and co-founder: "St. Jude Children's is a
wonderful organization that battles cancers of all kinds on a daily
basis... and from the doctors to the nurses to the support staff, they
are all committed to creating cures for every child that walks through
their doors... regardless of a family's ability to pay. Being that
this will be a very special tour, I thought we should help raise funds
for a very special cause! St. Jude's operates 100% on donations and
it's my pleasure to work with St. Jude's on our Brothers In Arms Tour!
A portion of the proceeds from each show will be donated to St. Jude's
Hospital.

"Stay tuned for more details and watch for added shows!"

Go to http://www.myspace.com/seventhrize and
http://www.seventhrize.net/ for information on Seventh Rize.

Stacy "Big Daddy" Humphries - Vocals
Darin Andersen - Guitars
Jerry Stone - Guitars
David Hamilton - Bass
Sulli - Drums/Percussion

Perris Records
http://www.perrisrecords.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #9 ***
*
-Swashbuckle: BACK TO THE NOOSE Album Trailer

A trailer for BACK TO THE NOOSE, the new album from New Jersey's
thrashing pirates Swashbuckle, can be viewed here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDPN9Ew-muc

BACK TO THE NOOSE is scheduled for release on July 24, 2009 (Europe)
and August 11, 2009 (North America) via Nuclear Blast Records.

Swashbuckle has been added to this year's Paganfest Europe tour
alongside Korpiklaani, Unleashed, Alestorm, Die Apokalyptischen Reiter
and Ex Deo, after recently completing the North American edition of
Paganfest. The trek kicks off on September 11 in Munich, Germany and
concludes on October 3 in Linz, Austria.

"Cruise Ship Terror," the new video from Swashbuckle, can be viewed
here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53A4GyB96RI

Commented the band: "Arrg, legendary metal music video director David
Brodsky (Kataklysm, Arsis, The Black Dahlia Murder) by chance caught
us pirates in the act of looting and pillaging a fine vessel along the
seas of the Atlantic. With nary a chance of escape, David bartered
passage to dry land in exchange for rendering a motion picture tale of
our nautical pilferings."

Swashbuckle was one of three winners of last year's Nuclear Blast
MySpace Bands Contest.

http://www.swashbuckle.info/
http://www.myspace.com/swashbuckle
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Swashbuckle/71641780327

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*** PRESS RELEASE #10 ***
*
-Contrive To Enter The Studio This Month

Australia's Contrive will enter the Toyland Studios, Melbourne this
week to begin recording the follow-up to their acclaimed debut from
2005 THE MEANING UNSEEN (Mixed by Fredrik Nordstrom - Studio Fredman,
Sweden)

Read Reviews:

http://www.sputnikmusic.com/album.php?reviewid=14581
http://metalobsession.net/contrive-the-meaning-unseen

The band's drummer Andrew Haug issued this update:

"Finally, we're hitting the studio to record what has been dubbed by
friends and even us as the CONTRIVE DEMOCRACY! Meaning, the album has
taken what seems like an eternity to complete. There were several
setbacks that can lay blame for this delay over the last few years
including our bassist Tim's motor accident whilst holidaying in
earlier this year. Am happy to report he's now all mended and ready to
thrash! Ok, what can I say about the album without creating a long
drawn out tangent on just how damn great it's going to be? Ha! Well I
can tell you it will contain eight songs and musically? Well, WE DIG
IT! You'll have to make up your own minds when it's done! More updates
soon! Horns - m/"

Contrive live in Bangkok, w/ Parkway Drive Feb. 2009; TV footage &
interview from SPINearth TV:

http://www.myspace.com/contriveaustralia

Contrive now on Facebook -- become a fan -- join up

http://www.facebook.com/pages/CONTRIVE/16792407242?ref=ts

Write Contrive

PO Box 134
East Keilor 3033
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

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*** PRESS RELEASE #11 ***
*
-Rusty Cage Records Update

Debut Fractal Gates Available Now!

This weekend the debut album of French metallers Fractal Gates called
ALTERED STATE OF CONSCIOUSNESS has been released. It's a six-page
digi-pak, containing 14 great doom/death/rock tracks. It will also be
available at all major downloadstores, such as iTunes, eMusic.

When ordering this album at the Rusty Cage webstore, you will receive
another RCR release for free during the month of June! (use
vouchercode: RCR19 and pay only €10,- for 2 CD's!)

Non-Divine News: Non-Divine To Support Testament

Non-Divine will support Testament on their Dutch gig at the Hedon in
Zwolle (Netherlands) on July 2nd.

Magnacult News: Magnacult To Support Mastodon

Dutch metallers Magnacult will support Mastodon on their only
headlining date in Europe at the Le Trabendo in Paris (France) on July
6th.

The band is currently writing material for its as-yet-untitled
sophomore album. They will enter the studio in April to start the pre-
production. "We are very excited to enter the studio again and record
our new material. We just played at two festivals in Holland this past
weekend and already unleashed two new songs and the reactions from the
crowd were great," says drummer Bionic.

Stay heavy,
The Rusty Cage Records Team
http://www.rustycagerecords.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #12 ***
*
-Ravenland: BACK E.P. Available On MySpace

When waiting for the release of their new album, entitled "...AND A
CROW BRINGS ME BACK, which shall be available in a few weeks by Free
Mind Records, Brazilian goth metallers Ravenland released the BACK
E.P., which is now available on MySpace at
http://www.myspace.com/ravenland .

BACK was recorded in Studio Fusão/Plug in, with production and drums
by Ricardo Confessori (Angra, Shaman) and it has the following track
list:

1 - Soulmoon
2 - End Of light
3 - Regret

Recently Ravenland launched a new YouTube channel, where is available
a video clip for "End Of Light." Check it out at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlYlfxo59GU .

Ravenland
http://www.ravenland.net/
http://www.myspace.com/ravenland

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*** PRESS RELEASE #13 ***
*
-Music News From Paul Speer

New Album

I am excited to announce that coming very soon will be the new album
WONDERS, a collaboration with Paul Lawler ( http://www.paullawler.org/
) from the U.K. and Satine Orient ( http://www.satineorient.com/ )
from Paris, France. We created musical impressions of awe inspiring
places on Planet Earth. Paul Lawler and I composed all the music and
Satine contributed vocals to two tracks. It will be released Tuesday,
July 7th 2009 assuming everthing goes according to plan.

OCULUS At #38 For 2008

OCULUS came in at #38 on the World/Ambient/New Age radio chart for all
of 2008. Not too shabby! It received and continues to receive airplay
on numerous terrestrial, internet, cable TV, and satellite radio
stations. A shout out to ace radio promoter Kathleen Monahan (
http://www.mc-kdm.com/ ) for her hard work on the project. If you
don't have a copy and would like one, click here:

Solo Projects
http://www.paulspeer.com/soloprojects.cfm

Free Stuff!

I can't fix the economy, end the wars, or stop global warming but what
can I do to make the situation a little better? Spread some music
around! And what better way to do that than give it away for free?
This time, instead of one free download to all my friends on this
list, I'm giving away a whole album download.

All you have to do is email me paulspeermusic@... and mention the
album you want and I'll send back a link to the download site. It is
just my way of saying thanks for your support all these years.

Until next time,

PS

http://www.paulspeer.com/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #14 ***
*
-Texas Guitar Great Chris Duarte Sees Life From Fresh VANTAGE POINT At
The War Memorial On June 25

TRENTON, N.J. -- The Chris Duarte Group will take the stage for two
memorial sets at the Trenton War Memorial on June 25 at 7 p.m. as part
of the "On Patriots Stage - The Kaplan Series."

"On Patriots Stage - The Kaplan Series" is a unique experience in
musical performance distinguishing itself from any other concert
series in America by offering audiences a rare opportunity to share
the stage with world-renowned musical artists and enjoy an up-close
and personal evening of music as well as an opportunity to meet the
performers. Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, with its
breathtaking architecture and state-of-the-art lighting and sound
systems make it the perfect backdrop for the series.

When Sun Records founder Sam Phillips first heard Howlin' Wolf sing,
he spoke the now famous words: "This is where the soul of man never
dies." If Phillips had ever met Texas guitar great Chris Duarte he
might have been moved to offer a similar insight into the eternity of
the blues, Duarte's triumph over personal adversity and the firebrand
passion to which this blues-rock guitar master brings to his music.

In a celebrity-driven industry rife with Faustian deals served up to
the public via false advertising, Duarte has demonstrated that his
soul -- and his love of the blues -- is not for sale. When listening
to the Chris Duarte Band's new record, VANTAGE POINT (Blues Bureau/
Shrapnel), one senses Duarte's rejuvenated spirit, renewed creative
breadth, an ability to tap into the blues' timelessness, and Duarte's
rekindling of the youth exuberance he possessed during the making of
his breakthrough debut TEXAS SUGAR/STRAT MAGIK.

The very title (VANTAGE POINT) alludes to Duarte's newfound self-
awareness, his shedding of some bad personal habits, and his ability
to view life from a different perspective. "I think I'm playing better
than ever," claims Duarte. "Working with producer Mike Varney has
really opened my eyes to a lot of possibilities regarding melody and
what to listen for to make a good record even better."

Once pegged as a Stevie Ray Vaughan-abee, Duarte (a one-time longtime
Austin resident now living in Atlanta) has emerged as an artist (worn
Fender Stratocaster in hand) with his own, original kick-ass, stinging
guitar-playing style. For years the name Stevie Ray hung like an
albatross around Duarte's guitar's neck. VANTAGE POINT is not only
Duarte's most fresh-sounding disk in years but also unabashedly
acknowledges and embraces his longstanding influences.

"I don't deny my influences," says Duarte. "If people compare me to
Stevie Ray, well, to me that's a compliment. My Stevie Ray tendencies
are just one characteristic of my musical identity."

Expecting a blues artist to exist in a vacuum and not be influenced by
music around him is unrealistic. The blues (back before there even was
a formalized genre) has always been about building, borrowing and
creating one's own artistic voice within a tradition. So it is not
surprising that a dash of Stevie Ray mojo can still be found in
Duarte's inspired six-string acrobatics. But listen closely enough and
you'll also spot 'Trane, Bird, Zeppelin, Miles, John McLaughlin,
Albert King, Freddie King, Howlin' Wolf's Hubert Sumlin, and a host of
other artists.

Duarte sprinkles these influences across a baker's dozen of tracks
appearing on VANTAGE POINT: check the Robert Plant vocal wail/Jimmy
Page-Les Paul vibe of "Babylon"; the Hendrix-meets-Govt. Mule-meets-
Mahavishnu Orchestra freak out guitar jams of "She Don't Live Here
Anymore"; and the jazzy, goofy, witty and ridiculous mood of
instrumental "Woodpecker," which could very well have been a recently
unearthed Dixie Dregs track from deep inside the Capricorn vaults.

Fittingly, the slow, major blues "Troubles On Me" not only references
Stevie Ray Vaughan's take on Albert King's version of the Elmore James
classic "The Sky Is Crying," but also the blues standard "Goin' Down
Slow" (specifically the 1961 Howlin' Wolf version, itself based on St.
Louis Jimmy Oden's 1941 song). Duarte adds his own poignant twist to
the soulful lyrics, which speak to his once turbulent personal life.

"The song is saying, 'Sorry, mom. I know this is not the life you
would have wanted for me,'" says Duarte.

A self-described child of the Beatles generation, Duarte first picked
up his brother's guitar when he was just 15 years old and learned the
Fab Four's tunes via guitar-chord tablature texts. After quitting
school at 16, Duarte moved from San Antonio, Texas, to Music City
U.S.A. (a.k.a. Austin, Texas) with a great musical potential and an
unchecked, naïve jazz "snobbishness."

"I was turning my nose up at it the blues, but when I did some serious
investigation, suddenly I'm asking myself, 'Why don't I sound like
that guy on the record?,'" Duarte says.

Duarte worked his butt off through constant practice, soaking up as
much knowledge as he could from veteran blues cats, and pounding the
boards in venues throughout Austin (and greater Texas). He witnessed
the rise of Austin as a music Mecca; caught a young Stevie Ray Vaughan
at the Continental Club when the future blues-rock icon was still
finding his own voice; founded his own trio; and began playing 25
shows a month when fans and critics alike stood up and took notice.

Suddenly the Midwest and upper South were Duarte's breadbasket. He was
on the road constantly and cut such critically acclaimed records as
TEXAS SUGAR/STRAT MAGIK, TAILSPIN HEADWHACK and 2007's BLUE VELOCITY.

Duarte's excitement is palpable when speaking about VANTAGE POINT.
"There are some moments on VANTAGE POINT that hit me the same way as
TEXAS SUGAR," says Duarte. "I was a young player then, didn't have the
vocabulary I do now, but there is a certain vibe about the tracks --
then and now. I'm just really excited about and proud of this record."

Tickets are $25.00 and available at The Patriots Theater Box Office at
(609) 984-8400, (800) 955-5566 or online at
http://www.thewarmemorial.com/ or http://www.tickets.com/ and a 10%
Military Discount (Box office only, must show ID).

A free 60-minute master class guitar instruction will be available on
a first come first served basis starting at 5 p.m.

Blues Guitarist Extraordinaire Chris Duarte Hosts Exclusive Master
Class At The Trenton War Memorial

TRENTON, N.J. -- Thursday, June 25, represents a fantastic opportunity
for those whose thirst for knowledge is never quite satiated by the
plethora of instructional DVDs and books out on the market.

Virtuosic bluesman Chris Duarte, once voted Best New Talent from
readers of Guitar Player magazine, will be sharing his vast depth of
knowledge in a 60-minute clinic at 5 p.m., preceding his performance
at the Trenton War Memorial. Duarte, who has toured internationally
for the past 18 years now, is thrilled to impart his philosophy on not
only crafting memorable guitar solos, but also finding great tones in
which to deliver them. This master class is free for all interested on
a first come basis. For those interested, you are welcome to bring
your own electric guitar.

The seminar will cover everything from basic soloing techniques to
advanced application of melodic ideas toward soloing. Duarte will also
expand on his own practice routine and devices that have proven
helpful towards, making him the incredible player he has become. Time
permitting, attendees will also enjoy the ability to jam out with
Duarte, who will then advise them on ways to spruce up their playing,
or maybe offer an insight that could help change their perspective on
the instrument. Whether you are a serious player, or simply a curious
hobbyist, the master class has something to offer anyone who has the
passion to play the right notes.

http://www.thechrisduartegroup.com/
http://www.myspace.com/chrisduartegroup
http://www.thewarmemorial.com/
http://www.meconcerts.com/
http://www.masterclass.us/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #15 ***
*
-Total Metal Festival 2009: New Bands On

After Finntroll, Malevolent Creation and Vomitory, waiting for the
final complete lineup, Vivo Management Agency officially annouce a few
bands more that will take part of the Total Metal Festival 2009 next
19 September at the New Demodè club in Bari (Southern Italy).

Those bands have been Confirmed: Modern Age Slavery, Kernel Zero,
Golem and Shank.

So this is the current situation of the Total Metal Festival 2009.

FINNTROLL
MALEVOLENT CREATION
VOMITORY
MODERN AGE SLAVERY
GOLEM
KERNEL ZERO
SHANK

Soon more bands will be announced.

LINKS:

Total Metal Festival - http://www.myspace.com/totalmetalfestival
Vivo Management Agency - http://www.vivomanagement.it/
Finntroll - http://www.myspace.com/officialfinntroll
Malevolent Creation - http://www.myspace.com/malevolentcreation
Vomitory - http://www.myspace.com/vomitoryswe
The Modern Age Slavery - http://www.myspace.com/themodernageslavery
Golem - http://www.myspace.com/golemneverdies
Kernel Zero - http://www.myspace.com/kernel0
Shank - http://www.myspace.com/shank555

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #16 ***
*
-Whiplash To Co-Headline Mexico's Monterrey Metal Festival IV

New Record To Be Released July 15th Via Pulverised

Legendary New Jersey thrashers Whiplash will co-headline this year's
Monterrey Metal Festival! The Monterrey Metal Fest IV will be held on
Wednesday, September 16, 2009 (Mexican Independence Day) at the Santa
Lucia Arena in the city of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. The
confirmed band lineup (minus the soon-to-be revealed headliner) is:

CHILDREN OF BODOM (Finland)
AMORPHIS (Finland)
WHIPLASH (U.S.A.)
STRAVAGANZZA (Spain)
MALIGNO (Mexico)
SPLIT HEAVEN (Mexico's Wacken Metal Battle winners)

Only 3,000 VIP tickets will be made available for the new re-designed
metal festival.

For additional information, check out the official festival Web sites:

http://www.mmf.com.mx
http://www.myspace.com/monterreymetalfest

Whiplash recently put the finishing touches on upcoming full-length
UNBORN AGAIN. The record, recorded at Mozart Studio with engineer/
producer Harris Johns (Sodom, Kreator, Helloween, Sepultura) and mixed
and mastered at Spiderhouse Studio in Berlin, is scheduled for release
on July 15 via Pulverised Records.

The three-piece power trio formed in 1984 when Tony Portaro (guitar,
vocals) and Tony Scaglione (drums) joined forces, recruited Tony Bono
on bass and released their first CD, POWER AND PAIN, in 1985 on
Roadrunner Records. The debut CD was followed up by their first live
performance at Ruthie's in Berkley, California with Possessed and
Death Angel.

Whiplash's current lineup:
Tony Portaro - Guitar/Vocals
Joe Cangelosi (ex-Kreator, ex-Massacre ) - Drums
Rich Day Bass (ex-Primal Scream) - Bass

The band will make their first hometown appearance in ten years later
this month!

When: Saturday - June 20th
Where: Dingbatz - 620 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, NJ
http://www.dingbatznj.com/
w/ Deathrash, Ashes Of Your Enemy, Gas, Arch Demon Choir

http://www.myspace.com/whiplashusa
http://www.pulverised.net/

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #17 ***
*
-Fattooth! "Natural Disaster" Tour Storms NXNE Musicfest - June 20th

http://www.myspace.com/fattooth

There's nothing more juicy than a good old Fattooth! as the Montreal
punk/metal thrashers will be grinding down the 401 en route to Toronto
to be blowing up their North American Tour at this year's NXNE Music
Festival on Saturday, June 20th at The Hideout, 482 Queen Street West.

"I hope the Toronto riot squad is ready for some testorone fueld rock
n' roll! It's a punch in the face!" says Fattooth bassist PowPow.

Fattooth recently released their debut self-titled E.P. produced by
Rob Shallcross (Strapping Young Lad, Gwar, Mr. Plow) and released via
Reversed Records. Fattooth is a new form of punk/metal that
methodically touches every genre of rock and roll imaginable. They
wear costumes, they have an awesome drummer, and they're intent on
world domination.

Fattooth @ NXNE
The Hideout - 482 Queen Street West
Showcase Time: 2 a.m.
Supporting Acts: Psychotropical Orchestra (Montreal), Dirtblonde
(U.K.), HotKid (Cambridge, ON), The Shondes (Brooklyn, NY), Trigger
Effect (Montreal)

Fattooth "Natural Disaster" North American Tour Dates
June 20, 2009 - NXNE Festival @ The Hideout - Toronto, Ontario
June 24, 2009 - The A-Chord - St. John, New Brunswick
June 27, 2009 - Coconut Grove - Halifax, Nova Scotia
June 28, 2009 - Pavillion - Halifax, Nova Scotia
July 2, 2009 - The Atria Bar & Grill - Oshawa, Ontario
July 4, 2009 - Katacombes - Montreal, Quebec
July 8, 2009 - Bogies - Albany, New York
July 9, 2009 - The Trash - New York, New York - w/ Kung Fury
July 10, 2009 - TBA - Philladelphia, Pennsylvania
July 11, 2009 - Mojo13 - Wimington, Delaware - w/ Moonshine Mile
July 15, 2009 - The MetalShaker - Chicago, Illinois
July 16, 2009 - Madison Frequency - Madison, Wisconsin
July 17, 2009 - NorShor - Duluth, Minnesota - w/ Lucyd, Blue Felix
July 18, 2009 - Black Pirates Pub - Thunder Bay, Ontario
July 21, 2009 - TBA - St. Cloud, Minnesota
July 23, 2009 - Nestor's Pub - Fargo, North Dakota
July 24, 2009 - The Viking - Gimli, Manitoba
July 25, 2009 - The Zoo - Winnipeg, Manitoba - w/ Dreadnaut
July 28, 2009 - North Hill - Brandon, Manitoba
July 29, 2009 - TBA - Regina, Saskatchewan - w/ Dreadnaut
July 30, 2009 - The Roxy - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
July 31, 2009 - TBA - Edmonton, Alberta
August 1, 2009 - The Stetson - Calgary, Alberta
August 6, 2009 - The Dirty Jersey - Kamloops, British Columbia
August 13, 2009 - The Cambie - Nanaimo, British Columbia - w/ Mendozza

August 14, 2009 - Logan's Pub - Victoria, British Columbia - w/
Mendozza
August 15, 2009 - Pub 340 - Vancouver, British Columbia
August 20, 2009 - The Funhouse - Seattle, Washington
August 22, 2009 - The Samurai Duck - Eugene, Oregon - w/ Omega Crom

"With their randy sense of humour and witty one-liners, Fattooth boast
an amusing slice of tongue-in-cheek punk rock 'n' roll heavily
influenced by the likes of hardcore, metal and even elements of c*ck
rock." - Exclaim!

"These nine tracks become almost a deli platter of variety where one
can pick and choose whatever entices them at that moment." - Exclaim!

"The energy and talent coming outta this band is phenomenal... I love
the sound" - Snap! Magazine

"You'll be hooked" 4/5 - Shockwave Magazine

"Fattooth brings on a mix of Punk, C*ck Rock and Metal roots that make
the sluts rip their shirts off..." -Komodo Rock

Check out Fattooth via their MySpace - http://www.myspace.com/Fattooth
Fattooth Promo Clip - http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=jsogvWcEgcc
Fattooth Studio Outakes - http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=mNLvx9RaMnA
Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/Fattooth

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #18 ***
*
-Black Skies Tour Update

Chapel Hill, NC doom trio Black Skies recently kicked off a string of
tour dates in support of their latest E.P., HEXAGON, issued as a
limited edition 12" via I'm Better Than Everyone Records. This will
mark the band's first time ever playing on the West Coast!

From the aptly named opening track "The Quiet Before The Storm"
through the thundering conclusion of "Chain Of Command," Black Skies
throw their heavy hat into the ring with HEXAGON. Together for just
over three years, guitarist/vocalist Kevin Clark, bassist Michelle
Temple and drummer Cameron Weeks weave their songs with well-thought
and executed riffs playing alongside a churning organic groove. This
is tonal chemistry befitting of a legendary band sharing the same
initials, yet with a decidedly American flavor. Through hard work
Black Skies has been making waves across the eastern half of the
United States and continue gaining momentum with tours booked
throughout 2009. If these six tracks serve as a fitting prelude of
greater things to come, the next waves of attack from this sonic
strike-force will truly be something to behold.

Black Skies Tour Dates
6/18/2009 Cobra Lounge Bullwhip Solution - Chicago, IL w/ Imperial
Battlesnake
6/19/2009 The Picador - Iowa City, Iowa w/ Russian Circles & Coliseum
6/20/2009 O'leaver's Pub - Omaha, NE w/ Bloodcow
6/21/2009 3 Kings Tavern - Denver, CO w/ Mobile Deathcamp Workhorse
6/22/2009 Burt's Tiki Lounge - Salt Lake City, UT w/ Old Timer & The
Water's Deep Here
6/24/2009 Funhouse - Seattle, WA w/ Sod Hauler & Dark Skies
6/25/2009 East End - Portland, OR w/ Danava, Radio Moscow, Dark Skies,
& Dudelord
6/26/2009 Cafe Coda - Chico, CA w/ The Abominable Iron Sloth!
6/27/2009 Annie's Social Club - San Francisco, CA w/ Totimoshi
6/28/2009 The Z Club - San Luis Obispo, CA
6/29/2009 The Scene Bar - Glendale, CA
6/30/2009 The Radio Room - San Diego, CA
7/01/2009 The Slurp - Tempe, Arizona w/ Drone Throne
7/03/2009 Headhunter's - Austin, TX
7/04/2009 JJ's Bohemia - Chattanooga, TN w/ Night Of The Wolf, etc.
7/17/2009 Divebar Raleigh - Raleigh, North CA
8/14/2009 Devilneck Metalfest @ Lenny's - Atlanta, GA
8/15/2009 The Milestone - Carrboro, NC w/ Giant Squid & Grayceon

http://www.blackskies.us/
http://www.myspace.com/losblackskies
http://www.imbetterthaneveryonerecords.com/
http://www.myspace.com/imbetterthaneveryonerec

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #19 ***
*
-City Of Ships Reveal New Tracks From Upcoming Album LOOK WHAT GOD DID
TO US; Exclusive Preorder Packages Available

Today City Of Ships posted two new tracks -- "Wraiths In Flight" and
"Praise Feeder" -- from their Translation Loss Records/Sound Study
Recordings release entitled LOOK WHAT GOD DID TO US due July 21st,
2009 to their MySpace Page. Check the tracks out here:
http://www.myspace.com/cityofships .

LOOK WHAT GOD DID TO US was recorded at Translator Audio in Brooklyn,
NY by Andrew Schneider (Pelican, Made Out Of Babies, Unsane) and
mastered by Nick Zampiello at New Alliance East (Bloodhorse,
Battlefields, Pelican). LOOK WHAT GOD DID TO US is now available for
exclusive preorder w/ package deals only available at the Translation
Loss Records and Sound Study Recordings Web-stores! Packages include
the CD (digi) w/ exclusive T-shirt designs (two color variations
available) only found at the Translation Loss web-store. Sound Study
Recordings has the LP version w/ exclusive hand numbered screen print
poster and coozie!

To Preorder the CD+T-Shirt package (two color variations available) of
LOOK WHAT GOD DID TO US from Translation Loss Records, click
http://translationloss.com/store/ .

To Preorder the LP+Poster+Coozie package of LOOK WHAT GOD DID TO US
from Sound Study Recordings, click
http://soundstudyrecordings.com/shop.html .

CITY OF SHIPS CURRENT TOUR DATES:
6/11/2009 - Pilam - Philadelphia, PA - w/ Liquid Limbs, Irepress,
Junius
6/12/2009 - The Charleston - Brooklyn, NY - w/ Liquid Limbs
6/17/2009 - Firlej Club - Wroclaw, PL - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/18/2009 - Klub 007 Strahov - Prague, CZ - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/19/2009 - An Club - Athens, GR - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/20/2009 - Yacht Club - Brno, CZ - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/21/2009 - Dürer Kert - Budapest, HU - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/22/2009 - Arena Dreiraum - Vienna, AT - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/23/2009 - TBA - Munich, DE - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/23/2009 - Atari - Leipzig, DE - w/ Rosetta & Blindead
6/24/2009 - JH Eglantier - Berchem, BE - w/ Rosetta, Blindead,
Maudlin, Timer
6/25/2009 - Offerandum Fest - Knokke-Heist, BE - w/ Rosetta, Blindead,
Maudlin, Sensual Noise
6/26/2009 - TBA - Ghent, BE - w/ Rosetta, Blindead
6/26/2009 - Rota Flora - Hamburg, DE - w/ Rosetta, Blindead
6/28/2009 - 013 - Tilburg, NL - w/ Rosetta, Blindead
6/30/2009 - Black Fleck - Potsdam, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/01/2009 - Az Conni - Dresden, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/02/2009 - Zoro - Leipzig, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/03/2009 - Elfer Club - Frankfurt, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/04/2009 - De Rots - Antwerpen, BE - w/ Braveyoung
7/06/2009 - Le Select - Lille, FR - w/ Braveyoung
7/07/2009 - Harry's Bar - Stoke on Trent, UK - w/ Braveyoung
7/08/2009 - Criterion - Leicester, UK - w/ Braveyoung
7/09/2009 - Captain's Rest - Glasgow, UK - w/ Braveyoung
7/10/2009 - Royal Park Cellars - Leeds, UK - w/ Braveyoung
7/11/2009 - Groomfest - Lincoln, UK - w/ Braveyoung
7/12/2009 - Kingstown Cafè - Le Havre, FR - w/ Braveyoung
7/13/2009 - The Secret Place - Montaigu (Nantes), FR - w/ Braveyoung
7/14/2009 - Basement Show - Tulle, FR - w/ Braveyoung
7/15/2009 - Le Pavillon Sauvage - Toulouse, FR - w/ Braveyoung
7/16/2009 - "La Vieja Escuela" Open Air Fest, Leon, ES - w/ Braveyoung
7/17/2009 - Altar Cafè Concerto - Porto, PT - w/ Braveyoung
7/18/2009 - tba - Madrid, ES - w/ Braveyoung
7/19/2009 - Estraperlo Club - Badalona, ES - w/ Braveyoung
7/20/2009 - Centre Civic La Fonteta - St. Feliu De Codines, ES - w/
Braveyoung
7/21/2009 - Lyon's Hall - Lyon, FR - w/ Braveyoung
7/22/2009 - Big Rooster - Cittadella (PD), IT - w/ Braveyoung
7/23/2009 - Habitat Skatepark - Arezzo, IT - w/ Braveyoung
7/24/2009 - Sunny Red - Meunchen, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/25/2009 - Waldmeister Club - Solingen, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/26/2009 - Lokal - Berlin, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/28/2009 - AZ - Aachen, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/29/2009 - Immerhin - w/Braveyoung Wuerzburg, DE - w/ Braveyoung
7/30/2009 - Winston - Amsterdam, NL - w/ Braveyoung
7/31/2009 - ACU - Utrecht, NL - w/ Braveyoung
8/01/2009 - Offshore Fest - Blankenberge, BE - w/ Braveyoung
8/01/2009 - La Taverne du Théâtra - La Louvière (Hainaut), BE - w/
Braveyoung

What folks are saying about City Of Ships:

"Pounding bass lines and quirky rhythms and structures that almost
have a math metal sort of vibe, but there's also a constant flow of
all kinds of incredibly tactful 'post-' influences, from lush clean
passages and swirling, spacey effects to noisier layers of intense
guitar work. I'm really f*ckin' impressed by this material.
Excellent." - Aversionline.com

"The group's frenetic energy and obvious emotional stake in the music
which they play is simultaneously impressive and inspiring." -
Scenepointblank.com

"Amidst the ocean of droney post-rock, post-hardcore clones, there are
only a couple bands that catch my attention. City Of Ships had me
hooked from beginning to end." - Razorcake

"This takes me back to a time of discovering exciting new sounds in
the underground scene that really blew minds, from Kerosene 454 to
Ethel Meserve -- bands unhindered by genre and expressing endless
enthusiasm for just playing great music. City Of Ships are hard to
describe and easy to enjoy, both great things." - Exclaim

*
*** PRESS RELEASE #20 ***
*
-Susperia Vocalist Set To Return At Steinkjer Festival In Norway

Athera (Pål Mathiesen), vocalist for Norwegian thrashers Susperia is
set to return to the stage at the Steinkjer Festival [
http://www.steinkjerfestivalen.no/ ] in Norway on Friday 26 June 2009.
The singer, who earlier this year suffered a heart attack which
resulted in major open heart surgery, has made a rapid recovery and
doctors have now given him the go ahead to make his comeback.

Athera recently gave his first interview since the heart attack to
Belgium's Metal Nose. Talking about his new perspective on life he
said, "I haven't seen the light or anything but things are certainly
different. I would never ever dare to touch any kind of drugs anymore
and I don't understand now how people can pull smoke into their lungs
and stuff like that, even though I used to love it. I guess you must
go through something like this to realize the dangers and insanity of
some of the bad things in life." Read the full interview here:

http://www.metal-nose.org/news.php?item.575.16

Susperia's fifth studio album ATTITUDE was released last month via
Candlelight Records, entering the official Norwegian Album Charts at
position No. 28, whilst in the U.S.A. it was the No. 3 most added
album on specialist Rock Radio Playlists. ATTITUDE is the band's debut
for the Candlelight label and features guest appearances from Chuck
Billy (Testament) and Shagrath (Dimmu Borgir). Recording took place at
Strand Studio and Studio Cyrus, Norway, with the mix being completed
at Studio Fredman in Sweden by Henrik Udd and Fredrik Nordstrom (Dimmu
Borgir, Arch Enemy, Opeth).

http://www.susperia.net/
http://www.myspace.com/susperiafans

*
*** NEWS/RUMORS ***
*
-Check out About Heavy Metal's list of "Best Hair Metal Ballads" at
http://glclk.about.com/?zi=1/7I2E .

-Killer Metal Records has reissued Dark Mirror's VISIONS OF PAIN with
four bonus tracks, new artwork, and a 12-page booklet. See
http://www.killermetalrecords.de/ for more.

-The Dead End Kidz were asked to contribute a track to a compilation
CD that will accompany the release of an upcoming Nikki Sixx
biography, entitled "An Education In Rebellion: The Biography Of Nikki
Sixx!" The book is due out in August. See
http://www.myspace.com/dekmusic ,
http://www.facebook.com/pages/THE-DEAD-END-KIDZ/6323764485 , and
http://www.twitter.com/thedeadendkidz for more on the band.

-"Deluxe" versions of Def Leppard's PYROMANIA and ADRENALIZE are out
this month. Each disc comes with re-mastered audio plus a bonus disc
of rarities. PYROMANIA's track list: "Rock! Rock! (Til You Drop),"
"Photograph," "Stagefright," "Too Late For Love," "Die Hard The
Hunter," "Foolin'," "Rock Of Ages," "Comin' Under Fire," "Action! Not
Words," "Billy's Got A Gun." The bonus disc features tracks recorded
live at the L.A. Forum in 1983: "Rock! Rock! (Til You Drop)," "Rock
Brigade," "High 'N' Dry (Saturday Night)," "Another Hit And Run,"
"Billy's Got A Gun," "Mirror Mirror (Look Into My Eyes)," "Foolin',"
"Photograph," "Rock Of Ages," "Bringin' On The Heartbreak," "Switch
625," "Let It Go," "Wasted," "Stagefright," "Travellin' Band"
(featuring Brian May). ADRENALIZE track list: "Let's Get Rocked,"
"Heaven Is," "Make Love Like A Man," "Tonight," "White Lightning,"
"Stand Up (Kick Love Into Motion)," "Personal Property," "Have You
Ever Needed Someone So Bad," "I Wanna Touch U," "Tear It Down." The
bonus disc features "rare, live, acoustic and demo" tracks: "Hysteria
- In The Clubs In Your Face" (Bonn 05/29/92), "Photograph - In The
Clubs In Your Face," "Pour Some Sugar On Me - In The Clubs In Your
Face," "Let's Get Rocked - In The Clubs In Your Face," "You Can't
Always Get What You Want" (B-side), "Little Wing" (with Hothouse
Flowers) (B-side), "Tonight" (version 2) (demo version) (B-side), "Now
I'm Here" (live featuring Brian May) (B-side), "Two Steps Behind"
(acoustic) (B-side), "Tonight" (acoustic - Sun Studios version)
(B-side), "Too Late For Love" (live) (B-side), "Women" (live)
(B-side). See http://www.defleppard.com/ for more.

-Empyria's a new release called THE LONG ROAD HOME through Nightmare
Records.

-The Gods Of Now, an "Alternative / Metal / Screamo" band from
Montreal, currently has its album available for free download at
http://www.thegodsofnow.com/download/ . The band consists of Schrecker
on vocals and guitar, Zasta on drums and live vocals, Jon on lead
guitar, and Alex JD on bass. See
http://www.reverbnation.com/thegodsofnow for more.

-Metal Sludge reported XYZ vocalist Terry Ilous filled in at a recent
Great White gig in Iowa, when Jack Russell "was injured and was not
able to perform." Check out a clip at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxr3qOurJ2E&feature=player_embedded .

-Ex-Tigertailz vocalist Steevi Jaimz has a new solo album out called
MY PRIVATE HELL. The disc also features Chris Laney and Anders
Ringman, both on guitar, bass, and drums. Hype has the songs combining
"Steevi's trademark Glam style melodies with Kiss and Ozzy Osbourne
style Hard Rock." Track list: "Amazing," "Don't Say It's Over,"
"Something Good Something Bad," "Still Crazy," "Little Sistah," "My
Private Hell," "Kiss Of Death," "I Don't Wanna Walk Away," "Dancin'
With Danger," "Kikk It Down." "Don't Say It's Over" was co-written by
Laney and Alice Cooper/Slash's Snakepit guitarist Ryan Roxie. Check
out clips at http://musicbuymail.eu/?i=27787 and see
http://www.steevijaimz.com/ and htt://www.myspace.com/steevijaimz for
more on Jaimz.

-Lizzy Borden is now sporting a revamped lineup with Chris Sanders and
Dario Lorina on guitar. See http://www.lizzyborden.com/ and
http://www.myspace.com/lizzybordenband for more.

-Upcoming Mad Margritt shows:

6/19 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Marietta, GA
6/20 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Macon, GA
7/3 - The Muscle Racing Festival, Sarasota, FL (w/ BulletBoys)
7/12 - Rocklahoma, Pryor, OK (w/ Twisted Sister, Skid Row, Great
White, L.A. Guns, Vixen, Nelson, etc.)
7/17 - Lubys, Lawrenceville, GA
7/18 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Augusta, GA
7/24 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Marietta, GA
7/25 - 37 Main, Buford, GA
7/31 - Chills, Thomaston, GA
8/14 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Macon, GA
8/15 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Suwanee, GA
8/21 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Raleigh, NC
8/22 - The Wild Wing Cafe, Greenville, SC
8/29 - The S.A. Rockin Summer Fest, San Antonio, TX (w/ Moxy, Broken
Teeth, etc.)

See http://www.madmargritt.com/ , http://www.myspace.com/madmargritt ,
and http://www.reverbnation.com/madmargritt for more.

-Magnum's INTO THE VALLEY OF THE MOONKING is out now. Track list:
"Intro," "Cry To Yourself," "All My Bridges," "Take Me To The Edge,"
"Th Moon King," "Noone Knows His Name," "In My Mind's Eye," "Time To
Cross That River," "If I Ever Lose My Mind," "A Face In The Crowd,"
"Feels Like Treason," "Blood On Your Barbed Wire Thorns." The disc
comes with a bonus DVD featuring a 48-minute band interview with BBC
Radio's Paul Franks; "You're The One," "Stormy Weather," "How Far
Jerusalem," and "On Christmas Day" recorded live in 1992; "Endless
Love" recorded live in 1985; a segment with guitarist Tony Clarkin
introducing Richard Mason's edited footage to "Les Mortes Dansants";
and album lyrics, artwork, and credits. Check out song clips at
http://musicbuymail.eu/?i=27765 and see http://www.magnumonline.co.uk/
for more on the band.

-Megadeth will release ENDGAME this September on Roadrunner Records.
The disc was produced by main man Dave Mustaine and Andy Sneap, and
will include songs entitled "Headcrusher," "1,320," "How The Story
Ends," and "This Day We Fight." See http://www.megadeth.com/ for more.

-Check out http://news.yahoo.com/s/eonline/20090612/en_music_eo/128818
for Poison main man Bret Michaels' take on his recent mishap at the
Tony awards.

-Slayer will play at Wacken Rocks Seaside and Wacken Rocks South
Festival. See http://www.wackenrocks.com/ for more.

-The "Summer Rock Fest" tour features Faster Pussycat, BulletBoys,
Bang Tango, and Swirl. The dates so far:

7/31 - Shark City, Glendale Heights, IL
8/1 - Riverstar Entertainment Complex, Cincinnati, OH
8/6 - Jaxx, Springfield, VA
8/7 - Crazy Donkey, Farmingdale, NY
8/8 - New Wave Café, New Bedford, MA
8/19 - Scoutbar, Houston, TX
8/20 - Scoutbar, San Antonio, TX
8/21 - Trees, Dallas, TX
8/22 - Red Eyed Fly, Austin, TX
8/27 - Galaxy Theater, Santa Ana, CA

-Tribe's PRAY FOR CALM... NEED THE CHAOS is out now on SAOL/CMM. The
disc was produced by Sascha Paeth, and features Paul Kettley on
vocals, Nick Dunne on guitar, piano, and vocals, Gaz McKenzie on bass,
and Adam Goldsmith on drums. Track list: "Head," "Sons Of Bukowski,"
"Absolution," "The Beating Of Black Wings," "Ghost Ballet,"
"Milovani," "Oberon," "Catch Me," "Havels Hurricane," "Words That
Kill," "Arual," "Bad Dreams," "Rise Up (And Fuel The Flame)" (bonus
track). Check out clips at http://musicbuymail.eu/?i=27786 and see
http://www.tribe.uk.net/ and http://www.myspace.com/tribeband for
more.

Thanks to Mike Kischnick, Chad Bowar, Roscoe, Jens Häfner, John Erigo,
Music Buy Mail, HeadbangerNYC.com, and Bill "Twice Shy" Kotowski for
help gathering some of this information.

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

-I just got the two-disc 25th anniversary edition of Twisted Sister's
STAY HUNGRY, so watch for a review soon. The first disc is the
original album, and the bonus disc features a whopping 18 tracks!
There are five early demos of songs that wound up on the album, 10
non-album tracks, 1 radio spot, a new song entitled "30," and an
unlisted track featuring Dee Snider goofing around in the studio. So
yeah, on the surface I figured this bonus disc basically was a "lost"
Twisted album, what with 10 non-album tracks plus the new song and
all. But, alas, not quite... Most of the non-album tracks are really
just pieces of songs. To give you an idea the entire 18-song disc
clocks in at just over 39 minutes. (Remember when Gene Simmons always
used to boast that he'd written like 40 songs for whatever the latest
Kiss album was, and he had to whittle it down to only four or five for
the record? This is probably what he was talking about -- a bunch of
90-second or two-minute song fragments.) So anyway, this all got me
thinking, because the main album is also quite short: just over 37
minutes. I looked back at some long CDs I'd received recently, and the
beefiest ones I could find were SuidAkrA's 13 YEARS OF CELTIC WARTUNES
and Sweet's new live album LIVE! IN AMERICA; curiously, both clock in
at 1:18:12. So I'm thinking they easily could've put all this Twisted
material on one disc. But the prospects of a 27-song CD probably
turned off the record company folks. I bet they worried people would
think it was an S.O.D. album or something. :)

-This past Monday I picked up the Best Buy ad and saw Spinal Tap had a
new release coming out called BACK FROM THE DEAD. Then, purely by
coincidence, I noticed they were scheduled to perform that night on
"The Tonight Show With Conan O'Brien." I watched; they did a rather
tepid performance of "Heavy Duty" and then sat for a brief interview
segment with O'Brien. Dutifully, the next evening I cruised out to
Best Buy. Turns out BACK FROM THE DEAD is a bit of an odd release. It
features newly re-recorded versions of all 11 tracks from the 1984
soundtrack to "This Is Spinal Tap!," so in some strange way you could
deem this a 25th anniversary package. In addition, there are a handful
of all-new songs plus newly re-recorded versions of "Back From The
Dead" and "Warmer Than Hell," two tracks that surfaced over the years
since 1992's BREAK LIKE THE WIND. (But, sadly, "Goat Boy" from the old
mid-'90s IBM TV commercial is nowhere to be found.) A DVD is also
included, featuring the three main band members -- Michael McKean as
guitarist/vocalist David St. Hubbins, Christopher Guest as lead
guitarist Nigel Tufnel, and Harry Shearer as bassist Derek Smalls --
talking about (and sometimes demonstrating) each track from the CD.
The set is a fold-out digi-pak that twists into a stage set-up
featuring 10" standees of St. Hubbins, Tufnel, and Smalls. It's funny
at first but having to deal with it every time you want to dig out one
of the discs quickly gets tiresome.

-Very cool to hear Empyria is back.

-In my current playlist: Bill Leverty - DEEP SOUTH (Leverty Music),
Spinal Tap - BACK FROM THE DEAD (The Label Industry Records),
Mastercastle - THE PHOENIX (Lion Music), XXX - HEAVEN, HELL OR
HOLLYWOOD? (Perris Records), Saidian - EVERCIRCLE (Blistering
Records).

*
*** REVIEWS ***
*
BLACK LABEL SOCIETY - SKULLAGE (CD/DVD) (B+) Eagle Vision, 2009
CD: 16 tracks, RT: 1:15:20
DVD: RT: 1:55:00
[ http://www.ZakkWylde.com/ ]
[ http://www.blacklabelsociety.net/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/blsnet ]
[ http://www.blacklabelsocietystore.com/ ]
[ http://www.eaglerockent.com/ ]
[ http://www.eagle-rock.com/ ]
Infamous Ozzy guitarist Zakk Wylde's long-running Black Label Society
project gets the "best of" treatment with this CD/DVD combo, and it's
a satisfying collection of BLS highlights and some rather, ahem,
interesting Wylde extras. For the uninitiated, Black Label Society
dispenses a fairly brutal form of southern flavored biker metal,
laying down traditional heavy crunch on "Doomsday Jesus," "Stillborn,"
"Bleed For Me" and "Suicide Messiah," although Zakk also has a softer
side as evidenced on the acoustic "The Blessed Hellride" and "Spoke In
The Wheel." The DVD includes live and conceptual videos, the best of
which are the raging "13 Years Of Grief" and explosive "Fire It Up."
Zakk is well-known for his guitar skills, but he has an interesting
vocal style as well, eerily blending Ozzy with Layne Staley. One of my
favorite aspects of the package is "Welcome To The Compound,"
featuring bonus footage of Zakk hanging out at home; in addition to
some fascinating philosophical musings and insight into the songs you
also get Mr. Wylde emotionally recalling comrade Dimebag Darrell, all
this balanced by hilarious segments of Zakk drinking while exercising
and paying offbeat homage to Ozzy by appearing in a dress (!?).
There's additional zaniness but it will be more fun if you discover it
yourself. Hardcore fans may find they already have much of this
material, and I was surprised that "Blood Is Thicker Than Water"
wasn't included, but for casual fans and neophytes to Black Label
Society this is a solid compilation, offering even the Zakk fanatic
some must-see moments...
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

CRIMFALL - AS THE PATH UNFOLDS... (B+) Napalm Records, 2009
11 tracks, RT: 46:46
[ http://www.crimfall.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/crimfall ]
[ http://www.napalmrecords.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/napalmrecords ]
Crimfall's music is classified as "epic folk metal" but, really, this
band goes way beyond these already descriptive boundaries. They are
not shy to call their music "weird," and that is exactly what some
people may use to sum up what this band sounds like after giving it a
listen. Their debut album, AS THE PATH UNFOLDS..., showcases the
musical vision of Jakke Viitala. There are two vocalists that sing on
two different extremes: female vocalist Helena Haaparanta sings in a
light, melodic tone, while a male vocalist Mikko Hakkinen sings
hardcore black metal. Yet, these two sing harmoniously together,
taking turns singing their pieces in every song. There are some parts
of the album that could be described as folk. There are some chanting,
echoing and voice layering on some songs. While listening to this
album, I couldn't help but think that nearly every song could probably
be used as a movie soundtrack for some kind of epic adventure movie.
There are orchestral components to be heard on nearly every song. The
one that I liked the best was "The Crown Of Treason"; you'll hear a
straightforward sounding metal opener, but sung by the female
vocalist. Without warning, the vocalist with the black metal sounding
voice steps in...and blows you away. The chorus is catchy and you'll
probably have it memorized by the time the song is over. Towards the
end, there are some mysterious sounds thrown in, like metal clanking,
wind chimes, and what sounds like fire burning. It conjures up images
of being in a distant, ancient land, where a battle is going to take
place. Every song seems to hold with it something unique. I could hear
the piano being played in one song, and a few other songs had acoustic
instrumentation. The songs do a good job of creating an ambiance. Some
songs are full of passion and vigor; some of the folk inspired ones
are lively and light-hearted in a sense; then others give off a
melancholy, reflective feel. This is a very compelling album for a
debut.
- Stephanie Davison (Zatanna7@...)

FEJD - STORM (C+) Napalm Records, 2009
12 tracks, RT: 59:51
[ http://www.fejd.se/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/fejd ]
[ http://www.napalmrecords.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/napalmrecords ]
I was skeptical of this album when I first saw the genre it was
classified into: Nordic Medieval Folk. Having the word "metal"
conspicuously absent, I was hoping that maybe this was just a mistake.
But after listening to STORM, I knew it wasn't. To get better
acquainted with this band, Fejd is from Sweden, comprising of folk
music duo Patrik and Niklas Rimmerfors and a third of the Swedish
metal act Pathos. While listening to this album, I could definitely
hear a lot of folk instruments. Some of the songs go at a slightly
darker, melancholy pace, but most of them are upbeat and enchanting.
The vocals are clean, a little raspy at times, but nothing over the
top. Patrik sings at the same range most of the time. The most metal
thing about this album is Esko Salow's drumming, which is for the most
part very straightforward. The guitars are not heavy; in fact you'll
hear more acoustic playing than anything else. The lyrics are not sung
in English. The song "Älvorna Dansar" has a clean and angelic sounding
female guest vocalist singing alongside Patrik. Songs like
"Bergakungen" are catchy and flow at a faster pace. The band is
clearly very talented and knows how to make beautiful music; folk
music. If you want something even remotely heavy, this is not for you.
On the other hand, if you like any kind of folk music, I'd recommend
this.
- Stephanie Davison (Zatanna7@...)

IAN GILLAN - ONE EYE TO MOROCCO (B) Eagle Records, 2009
12 tracks, RT: 43:26
[ http://www.gillan.com/ ]
[ http://www.gillansinn.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/iangillan ]
[ http://www.eaglerockent.com/ ]
[ http://www.edel.com/ ]
When the name Ian Gillan is mentioned one rightfully thinks of Deep
Purple, as his voice informs many of Purple's best moments; what is
often forgotten is that Mr. Gillan has also released an impressive
number of albums outside of the Deep Purple camp, including his Ian
Gillan Band and Gillan projects along with his solo work. ONE EYE TO
MOROCCO is Ian's first solo album of original material since 1997's
unusual DREAMCATCHER release, and finds the venerable vocalist evoking
a variety of tones and moods. Some of the tracks have a pensive
quality, such as the brooding title track, while "Don't Stop," "Change
My Ways," and "Ultimate Groove" have more of an upbeat, party feel, in
part as a result of the tasteful use of harmonica, saxophone and
Hammond organ. Favorite has to be the atmospheric groove of "Deal With
It," which is really quintessential Gillan, from the lyrics to the
urgency of the vocals. Overall an engaging album that departs from
Deep Purple's hard rockin' formula but will likely still appeal to
their fan base, while certainly capturing the attention of longtime
Gillan followers.
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

JSS - BEAUTIFUL MESS (B) Frontiers, 2009
14 tracks, RT: 51:17
[ http://www.jeffscottsoto.com/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/sewtoe ]
[ http://www.frontiers.it/ ]
[ http://www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords ]
Vocalist extraordinaire Jeff Scott Soto rechristened himself "JSS" for
this solo project, just to mess with those of us who file are music in
alphabetical order. Moving past that... BEAUTIFUL MESS will surprise
fans who only know Soto's more metallic, old school work with artists
such as Yngwie Malmsteen and Axel Rudi Pell. Soto's been involved with
innumerable projects over the years -- metal, AOR, unplugged, funk
rock, even disco (remember The Boogie Knights?) -- and I daresay this
album's title sums it all up perfectly. Just about every aspect of
Soto's past is on display here, with an emphasis on modern rock with
groove, and a funk/soul/R&B flair. (The man abbreviates his song
titles in Prince-like fashion for a reason!) A few heavier riffs are
on display in tracks like "21st Century" and "Mountain" -- and I swear
to God that "Testify" sounds like a vintage Black Sabbath riff put to
a dance beat -- and a few songs remind me of what Paul Stanley was
doing on 2006's LIVE TO WIN, particularly "Our Song" and the bonus
track "Heart Starts Healing." But the best stuff is the more mature
material that seems to flow effortlessly, like the smooth "Cry Me A
River" and the radio-ready "Hey." "Bring It Home" could be pretty
good, too, in the right environment -- put it on, grab your
significant other, darken the lights, and see what pops up. [Note: The
CD version of this album comes with a DVD; I didn't receive a copy but
it reportedly contains the videos for "21st Century," "Gin & Tonic
Sky," and "Hey," plus a 20-minute EPK, photo gallery, and desktop
wallpapers.]
- Tim Wadzinski (tsw512@...)

UFO - THE VISITOR (B+) SPV/Steamhammer, 2009
10 tracks, RT: 42:25
[ http://www.ufo-music.info/ ]
[ http://www.spv.de/ ]
[ http://www.spvusa.com/ ]
[ http://www.mypace.com/spvusa ]
Third time out with guitarist Vinnie Moore turns out to be the charm
for rock veterans UFO on their latest offering THE VISITOR. After two
albums of generally solid but admittedly hit-and-miss material Vinnie
has shed his role as a hired gun and taken his place as a natural
member of what has become a decidedly different but still vibrant UFO,
the revered axeman delivering spirited rhythms and blistering solos
throughout. Bluesy hard rock is the order of the day here as the band
tear through some sure-to-be crowd pleasers like opener "Saving Me,"
this one starting off with some nice slide work from Vinnie before
establishing a classic UFO rhythm actualized by that distinctive Phil
Mogg vocal. Other highlights include the robust "Hell Driver," hard
livin' lamentation "Can't Buy A Thrill," tenacious and tasty rocker
"Stranger In Town," and my favorite, the melodic '80s vibe of "Stop
Breaking Down," this one finding Vinnie sprinkling notes everywhere
for one of the album's best solos. Drummer Andy Parker shows he has
lost precious little of the power that fueled so many of the early UFO
staples, and Paul Raymond's keyboards remain and integral part of the
band's signature sound. Unfortunately bassist Pete Way is absent for
this one, but his duties are ably filled by stand-in Peter Pichl.
Front man Phil Mogg sounds great here, his performance nuanced and
affective. Several standard numbers bring the score down slightly,
including the obligatory Stones-y ballad "Forsaken," but overall this
is an album that can be appreciated by fans of both the old and new
style UFO. While THE VISITOR may not be up there alongside classics
such as NO HEAVY PETTING, LIGHTS OUT and OBSESSION, it is quite good
and likely their best since the excellent reunion disc WALK ON WATER.
Suffice it to say, this one will be visiting my CD player frequently
all summer long!
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@...)

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