Welcome to Angelic Warlord- your Christian metal and hard rock resource! Launched in the spring of 2006 with the express purpose of supporting Christians creating art within the metal and hard rock genres, Angelic Warlord gives prominence to an abundance of reviews, links, artist profiles, interviews, articles and much more- all updated on a monthly basis. If you enjoy all types of metal and hard rock - melodic hard rock, straightforward hard rock, melodic metal, classic metal, power metal, progressive metal and all things in between – that, at the same time, is backed by a positive and life changing message, then you have found a new home in Angelic Warlord.
UPCOMING REVIEWS
• DANIEL BAND – On Rock (Retroactive re-issue)
• FINAL AXE – Beyond Hell’s Gate (Retroactive re-issue)
• SHADOW GALLERY - Digital Ghosts
• TITANIC – Maiden Voyage (Retroactive re-issue)
• TITANIC – Screaming In Silence (Retroactive re-issue)
LATEST UPDATES
• FEATURED REVIEWS – January 31, 2010
• INTERVIEWS – December 13, 2009
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS – January 31, 2010
• RELEASE DATES – January 31, 2010
• DISCOGRAPHY – January 31, 2010
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• MINI REVIEWS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• LABEL NEWS
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
• NEWS BRIEFS
MELIAH RAGE – Masquerade – NEW
Masquerade, Meliah Rages’ seventh full length album from 2009, finds vocalist Mike Munro returning to the fold. What Munro brings with him back to the band is his new found faith. Read Full Review >>
SUNROAD – Long Gone – NEW
Sunroad returns in late 2009 with its fourth full length studio effort, Long Gone. The album finds the group continuing to meld hard rock with occasional groove and blues based moments but stepping it up in the songwriting department and delivering some of the finest compositions of its career. Read Full Review >>
DESYRE – Warning Of The Night
Drawing its name from I Thessalonians 5:2, Desyre got its start in 2004 with its first demo, Hair Metal Madness, before following up a year later with its second, Out Of The Blue Into The Red. The group proceeded to go on a year long hiatus only to regroup and begin work on its independently released full length debut from the fall of 2009, Warning Of The Night. Read Full Review >>
F.O.G. – Judgement & Redemption
Not so with F.O.G. and its latest release, Judgement & Redemption, from 2009. The album “bucks the trend” by proving a front to back consistent listen as a result of the group’s ability to infuse its material with enough melody and catchy hooks to keep your attention from wavering. Read Full Review >>
MASTEDON – It’s A Jungle Out There
It’s A Jungle Out There eventually went out of print and became a hard to find and highly sought after collectors item. In late 2009, however, the album was re-issued by Frontiers Records with “Wasn’t It Love” and live versions of “Islands In The Sky” and “Right Hand” (both performed at the Cornerstone 1991 Festival) as bonus tracks. Read Full Review >>
MASTEDON – 3
After over a decade of silence, John Elefante returns with the third Mastedon album, appropriately entitled 3. Musically, the album showcases the same type of catchy AOR and melodic rock of its predecessors. If you like It’s A Jungle Out There and Lofcaudio then 3 will be certain to appeal to you. Read Full Review >>
MEHIDA – The Eminent Storm
What would be the best way to describe music for a cold and rainy day? My initial thoughts revolve around something down-tuned, low-key or even Gothic. Melancholic and disconsolate also come to mind- and not just musically but lyrically as well. The blues, of course, deserves an equal measure of consideration. Read Full Review >>
SAINT – Crime Scene Earth 2.0
While Crime Scene Earth was initially an independent release by the band (on its own Armor Records label), in late 2009 it was re-mastered and re-issued by Retroactive Records with new (better) album artwork. Hence, the new title Crime Scene Earth 2.0. Read Full Review >>
VARIOUS ARTISTS – A Salute To World-Class Rock!
Compilation albums have always been hit and miss for me. It has been my experience that most either leave off key tracks (or include those that should not be there in the first place) or offer little if any motivation to purchase them (as a result of featuring no exclusive or bonus material).
A Salute To World Class Rock!, the latest compilation from Retroactive Records, fortunately, falls within the “hit” category.
The album, encompassing 17 songs from recent Retroactive releases, features a well chosen combination of the old (Whitecross – “Lookin’ For A Reason” & Guardian – “Kingdom Of Rock”), new (Liberty ‘N Justice – “Treading On Serpents” & Jacobs Dream – “All My Fears”) and bands on the comeback trail (Bride – “Last Thing I Feel” & Saint – “Hell Blade”). In between you will find top of the line tracks from Main Line Riders (“Broken Hearted”), “Boarders” (“Jump For Joy”), Hero (“Immortal”), Menchen (“Noon Sun”) and Faith Factor (“Armor Of God”).
At this point I am sure you asking: What reason there is to purchase this if you already own the albums including the songs at hand? Well, A Salute To World-Class Rock! also features “Single Edits” of tracks from Fires Of Babylon (“Lazarus Rising”), Adiastasia (“Freedom Call”), The Seventh Power (“Heavy Laden”) and Titanic (“Sons Of Thunder”). Now, what I mean by “Single Edits” is that the songs in question highlight subtle but noticeable changes, consisting of altered playing times, varied guitar mixes, changes in tempo, etc.
If you are not familiar with the Retroactive roster then this is a good place to start to learn of the labels varied line-up. If, at the same time, you already own many of the albums represented here then still give A Salute To World-Class Rock! a chance due to its exclusive Single Edits.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
Grade: No Quote
Jimmy P. Brown II goes into detail about the background and history of DELIVERANCE in a thread at the Christian Metal Realm entitled, appropriately, “The Ranting Of Jimmy P. Brown II”. Further reading: HERE
Upcoming Retroactive Records re-issues:
Retroactive Records will be re-issuing the following hard to find and out of print albums in the coming months: DANIEL BAND – On Rock, FINAL AXE – Beyond Hell’s Gate, TITANIC – Maiden Voyage, TITANIC – Screaming In Silence. MAIN LINE RIDERS guitarist Cliffy, who re-mastered the four, offers his thoughts concerning each project:
DANIEL BAND - On Rock (Collector's Edition)
Great band, classic album from 1982. My goal with this one was to restore it to its original glory. The M8 release from years ago was overly compressed, devoid of dynamics, had harsh highs and a false sense of stereo separation. I have addressed all of these issues. If you already have this album, trust me when I tell you to that it will benefit you to buy it again. The crappy bonus tracks from the M8 release have been replaced with two brand new '09 tracks that sound fantastic. Another great thing about this version is the return of the original cover. This one's already on my iPod. It's that good.
FINAL AXE - Beyond Hell's Gate (Collector's Edition)
Monstrous 1989 debut by Bill Menchen's FINAL AXE. Robert Sweet (STRYPER) on drums on all tracks. All drums were re-recorded from the ground up in '08. Guitars and vocals were re-recorded in '04 (the 2005 reissue had drum machine on every track). If you ever thought drums don't make a difference then I invite you to check this out and prove to yourself how wrong you were. Robert makes such a difference on this album that you'll swear you've never heard it before. This version also includes a killer drum instrumental called Area 51, making this the first Robert Sweet released drum solo since the ROXX REGIME demo.
TITANIC - Maiden Voyage (Collector's Edition)
Aah, the first TITANIC album...originally released in '96. Robert Sweet on drums on all tracks. All drums were re-recorded from the ground up in '08. All previous versions of this album had drum machine on every track. Once again the difference that Robert makes to this album is overwhelming. Worth the repurchase... and then some.
TITANIC - Screaming In Silence (Collector's Edition)
Bill Menchen assembled his TITANIC crew in '02 to make the follow up to the band's '96 debut. Robert Sweet on drums on all tracks. All drums were re-recorded from the ground up in '08. All previous versions of this album had drum machine on every track. Just like the two albums discussed previously (Beyond Hell's Gate & Maiden Voyage), Robert really makes an enormous improvement to this album. Additionally, Bill redid his guitar solos (showcasing his ability this time around) and completely reworked the rhythm guitar and structure of the first track (And The Band Plays On).
Also, in April Retroactive plans to re-issue digitally re-mastered versions of the first three BRIDE albums: Show No Mercy, Live To Die & Silence Is Madness.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
Further reading: HERE
Track listing to new BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA album, The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned, revealed:
1. “Catspaw”
2. “Apollo”
3. “Benai Elohim (Semjaza's Return)”
4. “A Constitutional Right?”
5. “Jesus Save...”
6. “Hate Crime”
7. “Ruin”
8. “Viva Cristo Rey!”
9. “We Is Killin' Me”
10. “Godless”
11. “You're On Your own...This Time”
12. “The Twelfth Imam”
Look for the album to be released in February. Also, unlike previous BMO releases, The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned will not be concept related.
Note: BMO is a controversial Gothic metal/hard rock project form Greenville, Alabama. Past albums include Axis Of Evil (2008), The Great Apostasy (2006), On Earth As It Is In Heaven (2004) and Divine Right Of Kings (2003).
Official: www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com/home.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/babylonmysteryorchestra
25 years of DELIVERANCE:
Press Release / In 1985, bands like STRYPER and BARREN CROSS were just starting to make their marks on the Christian Metal scene. In the Thrash world bands like METALLICA, SLAYER and TESTAMENT were in their infancy and just about to take the metal world by storm. It was 1985 that also saw the beginnings of an act that would come along and successfully meld these 2 genres together and ultimately leave an everlasting impact on both of these Metal communities, that band was DELIVERANCE!!! Fronted by the very outspoken and charismatic Jimmy P. Brown he would take this band and the Christian Thrash scene to a whole new level.
Fast forward to 2010, and we are very proud to be celebrating 25 years of that successful outfit known as DELIVERANCE. Still recording and playing shows to any place that will host them! If you ask any Christian Metal fan out there to name the most influential Christian Thrash band of old and still in the scene to this day, undoubtedly DELIVERANCE will top the list!
In celebration of 25 years of DELIVERANCE, DELIVERANCE fans have several things to look forward to this year…
Up first a BRAND NEW studio album through Retroactive Records! You heard that right 2010 will see a brand new release from the Christian thrash masters entitled The Annals of Subterfuge! (Full press release forthcoming from Retroactive Records)
Also Roxx Records in conjunction with the Christian Metal Realm (CMR) are set to release Temporary Insanity – A Salute to Deliverance, a 2 CD set all star tribute to DELIVERANCE! Which is set to feature many special guests artists and contributions from current and past members of the CRUCIFIED, DELIVERANCE, VENGEANCE RISING, DARK ANGEL, DARKNESS FALLS and many many more, all coming out to pay tribute to 25 Years of Deliverance, which will also include a brand new recording from DELIVERANCE- The 25th Anniversary Edition of “Flesh And Blood” completely redone and re-recorded! (Full press release forthcoming from Roxx Records/CMR)
Not enough for you! Plans are also in the works to bring DELIVERANCE to you live this year in celebration of 25 years of DELIVERANCE! Shows in California and Pennsylvania are currently in the works and we are currently entertaining a few other fly in dates for the band as well as some festival appearances! Interested in bringing DELIVERANCE to your area? Please contact bill@roxxproductions.com with any and all possibilities!
Roxx Productions Official: www.roxxrecords.com
PASTOR BRAD: Break Out update:
Press Release / Roxx Records is very proud to announce the spring release of Break Out by PASTOR BRAD. After 5 independent instrumental shred albums, PASTOR BRAD is back with his fourth full-length vocal album and first on Roxx Records! While the old-school guitar shred influences are still here, this album will hit you square in the face with some of the heaviest sounding riffs ever recorded on any PASTOR BRAD album!
What started out as a true solo CD turned in to a very special release with tons of special guest artists! The album is set to feature the following very special guest appearances:
Ken Tamplin
Ski (FAITH FACTOR)
Richie Z (BLIND SEVEN)
Rachel Anne (IRON MAJESTY)
Luke Webber (PASTOR BRAD)
Les Carlson (BLOODGOOD)
Chaz Bond (JACOBS DREAM)
Kenny Metcalf (STRYPER Keyboardist)
Angel Zamora
Jim Griffin (GRIFFIN X)
As an added bonus, the first 100 pre-orders of this special release will come with a bonus disc entitled Best Of The Rest, a bonus disc of rarities, unreleased tracks and also some of the Break Out tracks featuring PASTOR BRAD handling lead vocals! (They were just too good not to put out.) So if you’re a PASTOR BRAD fan you will definitely want to get in on the pre-order for this one!
This debut Roxx Release is set to hit the streets on April 27, 2010 and will be available everywhere!
Also, be sure to check out the brand new Roxx Store while you're at it: www.roxxproductions.com
Official: www.guitarjams.net
New THEOCRACY album on the way:
Founding member vocalist Matt Smith offers further detail:
“All the demos are almost done, but we haven't actually started recording for real yet. Still have to finish writing one song, but soon we're going to go ahead and start rehearsals on the new stuff and get ready to start recording.
I'm looking forward to getting back to it. I've been absolutely swamped for the last few months with the tour, trying to finish up projects I'm recording and/or mixing for other bands, moving, etc., but things should slow up after the next couple of weeks. Since you guys are so cool and patient, here's a little teaser for ya, made up of short clips from my demos of the new songs (key word: DEMOS): www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/theocracy/539124-new-cd.html
Yeah, I don't think there's any surpassing "Mirror of Souls" (the song) for me, personally...I feel like if I'm blessed enough to have a long life, I'll still think of that song as my magnum opus when I'm 80. So all we can do is try something different, which in this case will be a little more "Theocracy's Greatest Hits" song oriented (i.e. shorter songs that work great live, with a couple of epics thrown in). We want this one to be one of those albums where every single song could potentially be someone's favorite, as opposed to a group of songs orbiting around one big epic. We're sure not going to have another 24-minute song on this one...gotta keep things fresh and unpredictable.
Where I DO think you can compare is in the more tangible aspects: the production is far better on MOS, the singing is better, etc., and the third album will hopefully continue that upward trend (especially when it comes to the guitar parts and solos). So I feel like we're still getting better and better, and once I feel like we're not getting better, then it will be time to walk away. But I'm very excited for this album; I had some specific goals in mind and I think we're going to meet them, such as making this one feel like a Theocracy's Greatest Hits album and making it closer to 50 minutes than 80, so you'll want to play it again as soon as it's over.”
Note: THEOCRACY got its start on Metal Ages records with the epic melodic power metal of its 2003 self-titled debut. The group moved on to Ulterium Records five years later for the follow up effort Mirror Of Souls.
Official: www.theocracymusic.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
DARRELL MANSFIELD is currently working on a rock and blues album to be entitled New Revelation. A release date is planned for later in the year.
PLACE OF SKULLS recently entered the studio to begin work on a new album (untitled at the time of this writing).
SAINT will be playing a show on February 13, 2010 at The Grand Theatre in Salem, Oregon. The group plans to shoot a full length DVD of the performance along with music videos of “The Blade” and “New World Order”. Also, guitarist Dee Harrington has left SAINT in order to work on his own projects.
STAIRYWAY has finished mixing its new album, Interregnum. The project is currently being mastered. A release date is not yet scheduled.
The fourth TORMAN MAXT album, The Problem of Pain Part 2, is being mixed and is due out in early 2010.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
AUDIOVISION signs with Ulterium Records:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are very proud to announce the signing of the Swedish melodic metal band AUDIOVISION. The bands new album, Focus, will be released later this spring, with release dates and more information to be announced within the coming weeks.
AUDIOVISION line up:
Christian Liljegren (DIVINEFIRE, ex-NARNIA) - Vocals
Simeon Liljegren (Ex-MODEST ATTRACTION) - Bass
Torbjörn Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE) - Guitars
Thomas Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE) - Drums
Olov Andersson (GRAND STAND) - Keyboards
AUDIOVISION are also just confirmed as opening act for STRYPER on three of their European shows. The dates are as follows:
January 26th: Markthalle - Hamburg, Germany
January 27th: KB - Malmö, Sweden
January 28th: Trädgårn - Gothenburg, Sweden
The two up-coming singles from Focus, "Invitation" and "Keep The Fire Burning", will be performed for the very first time at these shows.
Note: AUDIOVISION debuted on Rivel Records in 2005 with the full length offering The Calling. The album was more of a project than a full band effort in that it featured the contributions of numerous vocalists, guitarists, bassists and keyboardists.
For more information on AUDIOVISION, visit their MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/audiovisionsweden
SINBREED: When Worlds Collide coming in March:
Press Release / Ulterium Records will release the debut album, When Worlds Collide, by the German power metal band SINBREED on March 26th for the European market. Release dates for Japan and North America will be announced shortly.
SINBREED is the project OF 27 year old Guitarist Flo Laurin, who has joined forces with vocalist Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE) and drummer Frederik Ehmke (BLIND GUARDIAN) to create the distinctive power metal that is SINBREED: a blistering combination of speed, melodic and aggressive arrangements and soaring vocals.
SINBREED line up:
Herbie Langhans – Vocals
Flo Laurin – Guitars & Keyboards
Alexander Schulz - Bass
Frederik Ehmke - Drums
When Worlds Collide track listing:
1. “Newborn Tomorrow”
2. “Book Of Life”
3. “When Worlds Collide”
4. “Dust To Dust”
5. “Infinity's Call”
6. “Through The Dark”
7. “Enemy Lines”
8. “Room 101”
9. “Arise”
10. “Salvation”
When Worlds Collide was mixed and mastered by Markus Teske (SYMPHONY X, VANDEN PLAS) and artwork created by Felipe Machado Franco (ICED EARTH, AYREON). The album features guest appearances by Thomas Rettke [REDKEY, HEAVEN’S GATE) Joost van den Broek (AYREON, STAR ONE) and Morten Sandager (PRETTY MAIDS)..
The SINBREED MySpace profile includes the album artwork along with the track “Newborn Tomorrow” in its entirety and clips of three others: www.myspace.com/sinbreedmetal
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
Roxx Productions signs CRYSTAVOX:
Press Release / After 20 years of silence, one of Christian Metal’s loudest bands is back, with a great story and a line of new limited releases in collaboration with Roxx Productions. CRYSTAVOX, based out of San Diego, CA., recently met again informally to mark the 20 year anniversary of the bands first record deal (Regency 1989). Discussions progressed, causing the band to research where the original master recordings were located. CRYSTAVOX lead guitarist, Tony Lopez, located the master tapes - stored in a warehouse in Burbank, CA. The previous record label; Ocean Records, released the Archived Media back to CRYSTAVOX.
“We were finally in possession of all the two-inch masters from both records but after 20 years in storage, we would have to bake the tapes in order to allow them to pass through a tape machine again,” said Lopez. “Convection baking worked and we were able to digitize the tapes in high resolution to the Pro Tools format,” Lopez concluded.
Not only did the band now have control over a remix of such hit songs as “Scarifice” (#1 PRR 1990), “Home Again” (#3 CCM 1990), and “It’s All Right” (#7 PRR 1990), but also discovered a “never released” live concert and MTV style video. Bringing this dated and worn media back to life fell on the shoulders of drummer, Fred Helm, who had become a director and producer for regional and national televisions shows since his departure from CRYSTAVOX.
“Finally getting to load this live show into our production studio was so much fun,” said Helm. “The only copy we had was a 20 year old VHS tape that had been played several times over the years. All the blacks were grey, the color was washed and in 1990, Widescreen TV did not exist. We have corrected the color issues and re-mastered the video in the 16:9 format. These videos; which consist of 4 live songs and 4 MTV-style video productions, will also include a recently recorded, “where are they now” segment - shot in HD, and featuring the band “self narrating” the story of CRYSTAVOX.
The band took a shot at remixing the old songs to see if modern technology could add a new edge to the hit songs recorded so long ago - when MP3’s, the internet and non-linear digital recording did not even exist. “The pre mixes were good enough to import a complete Pro Tools HD system into the production studio and take a serious shot at remixing the old songs,” said CRYSTAVOX song writer and guitarist Loren Holmquist.
“When I heard the pre-mixes, I was astounded as to the clarity and general lack of over-processed sounds that we had gotten used to,” said Adam Lee Kemp, lead singer for CRYSTAVOX. “The 80’s were all about excess; in vocals, layered harmonies, guitars and effects.” “Consequently, I knew that converting those previous concepts into a current format would involve a major overhaul in order to synchronize the delivery with modern music and culture.” “Ultimately, Fred was able to start-from-scratch and re-mix these new versions using a minimal portion of subtle effects - causing the songs to appear modern, 20 years after they were recorded.” Kemp concluded.
The songs have been totally redone; new guitars, drums and an over-sampling method vastly increasing the mastered volume of each song to today’s standards. The re-discovery of CRYSTAVOX in 2010 comes complete with a custom built media website featuring the bands songs and videos.
The new release entitled, The 20 Year Mix will include a DVD and the “Best Of” songs released through Roxx Records/Roxx Productions.
“I realized CRYSTAVOX might be in the position to re-release its library which, in its original versions would have done well. Realizing the songs had been remixed and there was a DVD interested Roxx,” said Bill Bafford, President of Roxx Productions. “We are very excited about this limited release and the relationship with Crystavox.”
The release is set for early Spring 2010 on Roxx Records.
After the break up of CRYSTAVOX in early 1992, original members Adam Lee Kemp, Loren Holmquist, Fred Helm and Tony Lopez continued in the production and recording industries recording over 45 releases and 27 television shows.
Official: www.crystavox.com & www.roxxproductions.com
LEGACY re-issue on Eonian Records:
Press Release / Christian metal: The merging of the messianic message with loud, raucous, rowdy rock ‘n’ roll. To some, this sounds oxymoronic, the mismatched mixing of the sacred with the profane. But to the born-again mousse-abuse mavericks in Legacy–Matt Rice (guitars), John Rice (bass), John Jenkins (drums), Fred Blanchard (guitars), and Doug Meacham (vocals) – it sounded like a match made in, well, heaven.
The band’s creation began on September 17, 1987, in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Eric Adams, a youth minister, felt called to build and manage a band that could not only rock your face off, but share the love of God while doing so. With John Rice, Matt Rice, and Matt Reedy already on board, Eric reached out to Fred Blanchard, the younger brother of a friend of his, wondering if he knew of any singers seeking work. As divine providence would have it, Fred’s band had just broken up that day, so he and Doug Meacham were both available to join.
Undecided on a name, the band fluctuated between Xristas, Threshold, and Cross as they strived to learn the songs and mesh their individual talents into one smooth, all-cylinders-cranking metal machine. But before they actually played any gigs, Matt Reedy left the fold and Blanchard enlisted his friend John Jenkins as a replacement. With this infusion of fresh blood also came a new band name: LEGACY.
Legacy made no bones about being a Christian metal band. While the music was important, a sizzling salvo of heavy guitars, thunderous rhythms, melodic hooks, and layered harmonies, the band placed equal, if not more, importance on their message, ensuring their lyrics cleaved true to who they were as men of faith.
Claiming Columbus, Ohio as their home and citing bands like STRYPER, DOKKEN and SCORPIANS as influences, LEGACY launched themselves into the live circuit, playing their first show at Tree of Life Christian School where Fred was still a senior. But the band did not limit themselves to Christian audiences; instead, they took to heart Jesus’ command to take His message into the world and invaded secular venues on a regular basis. One of their biggest accomplishments was winning the Battle of the Bands at the renowned heavy metal club Alrosa Villa in the winter of ‘89, becoming the first white-metal band to ever take the crown in that head-banging competition.
Note: Look for Eonian Records to re-issue the back catalog of LEGACY, including the group’s demo material and tracks it placed on the compilation albums Heavy Righteous Metal Chapter II (“Cross The Line”) and Brave New Music (“What A World”). A release date of March 9, 2010 is planned.
Legacy track listing:
1. “Kingdom’s Arise”
2. “It’s Real”
3. “Cross The Line”
4. “Forever In Your Arms”
5. “Don’t Run Away”
6. “Change Of A Broken Heart”
7. “Comin’ Along”
8. “Soldiers Unite”
9. “One Way Or The Other”
10. “Live It”
11. “Vision Of Perfection”
12. “What A World”
Further reading: www.eonianrecords.com/b-legacy/legacy.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/legacycolumbus
KERRY LIVGREN stroke update:
The latest from the artist in regards to his recovery:
"The various therapies continued – as did the improvements. I was basically aware that I was slowly getting better, but I really didn't grasp how much I was improving. People that I spoke to on an occasional basis always remarked about how much better I was speaking. The change was so gradual, that I could scarcely notice it. Over time, the feeling was coming back to my hand. I finally sat down at my piano, and suddenly I could play with both hands. It was nowhere near my former ability, but now I had hope. As the days have passed, my playing improves slowly – I can even pick a few notes on the guitar.
I am now, as of this writing, four months from the date of my stroke. I still have some speech problems, and some trouble with my right arm. It has been a long and hard struggle, and there is still a ways to go. I did not know it at first, but this stroke was serious. I just now am finding out how serious. My Doctor, after conferring with several other physicians including a hematologist, told me that what had caused the stroke was a blood disorder called “antiphospholipid syndrome.” He said that it was unlikely that a physical exam would have revealed it. It is a type of auto-immune disorder, and he informed me that I must be on blood-thinner drugs, presumably for the rest of my life. I was not pleased about having to take Coumadin, but I left his office resolved."
Further reading: www.numavox.com/mystroke.html
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
MELIAH RAGE vocalist makes statement of faith:
From the MySpace profile of vocalist Mike Munro:
“So, I figured church couldn’t be all bad. I started to go to support my family but something was happening. God was calling me to Him; I was listening and understanding His love for me. The Christian men and women I met did not judge me. They showed me acceptance and love for where I was at the moment.
The problem I had was that I never thought God would forgive me for those years of evil lyrics that I wrote. One night a speaker told a similar story to my own, and I realized God loves me right where I am today. I didn’t get it until then. I needed to accept Jesus as my Savior. I cannot be what I was striving for without Him. God loves me unconditionally, even on my worst day.
God sent his Son so we can live with Him for eternity in Heaven. This fact was a crossroads for me. I had a tough time dealing with my background – my past actions and what I wrote about in my songs for MELIAH RAGE. If anything, my lyrics pulled people away from God. I thought, “How can God forgive me for that?” He can… and He promises that He will.
My God loves me no matter what. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God and He makes me whole. I have Jesus as my Savior and He is the key to my Heavenly Father. I never experienced unconditional love from a father figure, and it is something I desire every day. When my younger son, Daniel, was little he used to tell us that “Jesus is the boss of my life”. That’s as simple as it gets.”
Note: MELIAH RAGE is a Boston based heavy metal band that has been around since 1987. The group has released eight albums, with Masquerade, its most recent from 2009, featuring the lyrical contributions of Munro, who is very forthright about his faith. Check out the lyrics to the song “Lost Or Found”:
Why do you hide? Why do you lie?
Can’t you see that He knows all and all?
All that we do, all that we say
All shall kneel down on our judgment day
I am He who searches mind and heart
The Faithful and Truth the Morning Star
I am Son of Man King of Kings
The First and Last to Him I sing
The albums title track is forthright as well:
I need a Savior. I need the Son
Fires in the heavens, rolling on and on
Deliverance from the Mighty
Bring me to Your home
Many rooms have been prepared
Please Father may I have one?
Musically, I might describe MELIAH RAGE as classic US power metal with the occasional thrash overtone. The songs on Masquerade are catchy, heavy and riff driven. Comparisons can be made to METAL CHURCH, VICIOUS RUMORS, FIRES OF BABLYON and ARMAGEDDON. As a matter of fact, Mike Munro takes the same type of “gruff low key approach” as Mike Vance (ARMAGEDDON).
Look for a review in the near future.
Further reading: www.myspace.com/mikemunro828 Samples: www.myspace.com/meliahrage
FEATURED REVIEWS
CHAINED – Grateful Sinner
Musically, Chained takes a foundation of thrash metal – the group lists its influences as Pantera, Living Sacrifice and Megadeth – and joins it with elements of traditional and classic metal. The end result is a sound not only powerful and aggressive (please keep in mind the previously referenced influences) but memorable at the same time (it must be noted how Chained imbues its material with distinct melody structures). Read Full Review >>
GUARDIAN - First Watch - 20th Anniverary Edition
First Watch was released in June of 1989 only to go out of print and became a hard to find collectors item. Retroactive Records later re-mastered and re-issued First Watch in the fall of 2009 as a “20th Anniversary Edition” with revised album artwork and “Marching On” and “Spiritual Warfare” from the California Metal compilation as bonus tracks. Read Full Review >>
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE – Light It Up
Now, what I mean by “all-star project” is that LNJ founding member Justin Murr follows a tried and true method of bringing in numerous talented vocalists and musicians – some of the best in the business both past and present – in order to complete the recording process. The same pattern was followed on Light It Up, the fifth overall all-star release from LNJ – scheduled to come out in early 2010 - and first on Retroactive Records. Read Full Review >>
NARNIA - Course Of A Generation
Narnia continues to bring change on Course Of A Generation, its sixth full length studio release from 2009 and second on Massacre Records. The album finds Narnia returning to the heaviness and power-progressive overtones of Desert Land and The Great Fall but interwoven with melodic sensibilities not unlike Enter The Gate. Read Full Review >>
MICHAEL PHILLIPS – Mirrors Within Mirrors
The artist returns again in 2009 with his first solo album, The Roxx Productions and NePlus Ultra Music release Mirrors Within Mirrors. What we have in Mirrors Within Mirrors is an eccentric work in which Phillips takes a foundation of the progressive and mixes in acoustic leanings with the traditional metal and thrash of his past. Read Full Review >>
SAINT – Hell Blade
Saint returns on Retroactive Records for its latest project, Hell Blade. Scheduled for release in early 2010, the album finds Saint staying true to its classic metal roots (think Judas Priest, Armageddon, Accept and Metal Church) but this time heading in the darker and heavier direction. Read Full Review >>
SWEET COMFORT BAND – Cutting Edge – Retroactive Re-issue
Those “heavier rock” leanings in question became even more pronounced on Sweet Comfort Band’s fourth Light Records release from 1982, Cutting Edge. Up-tempo rockers “Runnin’ To Win”, “What Have You Got?” and “Valerie”, for example, represent some of the heaviest material from SCB to date while the palatial “Armed And Ready” draws upon a semi-progressiveness. Read Full Review >>
SWEET COMFORT BAND – Perfect Timing – Retroactive Re-issue
At this point it must be reinforced that Perfect Timing is certainly not metal while roughly half its material can be classified as hard rock. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quality “heavy rock” releases with accomplished songwriting backed by a top of the line band performance then Perfect Timing will not disappoint. Read Full Review >>
LINKS
GUARDIAN is offering its 1993 album Miracle Mile (Encore Edition) for free download: HERE
You can listen to a new track, “Deep Under Sea”, from the upcoming REINXEED album Majestic: www.myspace.com/reinxeednorth
THEOCRACY produced a tour documentary of its “Laying Europe To Rest Tour” from October. Following is part one: www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZU-0gBsHWQ
Guitarist Val Allen Wood (THEOCRACY) completed work on his solo album. A new song entitled “Phygian Lesson 101” can be heard at: www.myspace.com/valallenwood
Detonation webzine interviews with Michael Bloodgood & Jim LaVerde:
“Yeah, the idea of BLOODGOOD came before there was anything such as Christian metal, which is why it took me a while to actually realize that's what God was calling me to do. Officially we've been together since '85, but David and J.T. (Taylor) the first drummer, and I were actually rehearsing in '84, and praying about it clear back to '83. But as far as a unit, when we were cohesive and began rehearsing, it was '85.”
Read full interview with Michael Bloodgood: www.detonation.meltdownmusic.co.uk/bloodgood.htm
“Believe (it) or not, we (BARREN CROSS) are currently working on a new (recording) project, and it's taken a long time to get this under way. As a matter of fact, even last night, Ray (Parris - guitarist) was sending me tracks over e-mail! He e-mailed me guitar parts! And I took the e-mail and I put it in my garage band file, and I'm trying to make a drum part for it, so yes, technology is a beautiful thing, but yes, we're working on it, we're gonna try and record in December, three songs, to see how it goes.”
Read full interview with Jim LaVerde: www.detonation.meltdownmusic.co.uk/Jim%20Laverde.htm
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
New BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA album on the way:
The latest from founding member Sydney Allen Johnson:
“Work has been getting done on the BMO front as well. The new CD is finished. I am doing some remixing as well as working on the booklet. I am not officially announcing the CD's title yet but there is a new interview posted on the "Axis Of Evil" reviews page with the Metal Resource where I do give it away. I will be giving more information on the new CD soon. Expect an early 2010 release.”
Following are the details from the interview in question:
“The record itself will be called The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned. Sure to be a controversial title. This record really isn't a conceptual one, however, when I put that title over it, it starts to feel like one. There are songs about UFO's, conspiracies and, thanks to our recent election of a socialist president, there are quite a few political statements as well. I assure you it is a continuation of the fine art of "political incorrectness" that BMO has mastered. I can't wait to see the reaction to a track called "Hate Crimes." I promise you no one will hear that song and not have a reaction, one way or another. It is a diverse group of themes that somehow all fits nicely under the record's title. I am going to make sure the booklet lives up to it.”
Note: BMO is a controversial Gothic metal/hard rock project form Greenville, Alabama. Past albums include Axis Of Evil (2008), The Great Apostasy (2006), On Earth As It Is In Heaven (2004) and Divine Right Of Kings (2003).
Official: www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com/home.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/babylonmysteryorchestra
Light up your Christmas LIBERTY ‘N JUSTICE style:
Press Release / Retroactive Records and LIBERTY ‘N JUSTICE are taking pre-orders for the new LNJ disk Light It Up! Pre-order it now and we will put this in your stockings just in time for Christmas! That's a whole month before the album's release date of 1-19-10. Anyone who pre-orders Light It Up will all so receive a free CD sampler called Salute To World Class Rock and a free LIBERTY ‘N JUSTICE 11x17 poster.
Samples: www.reverbnation.com/libertynjustice & www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2
Pre-order: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage & www.libertynjustice.net
Note: Light It Up is the fourth all star release from LIBERTY ‘N JUSTICE. The album features guest appearances by Phil Collen (DEF LEPPARD), Eddie Ojeda (TWISTED SISTER), CJ Snare & Bill Leverty (FIREHOUSE), Phil Lewis (LA GUNS), Marq Torien (BULLETBOYS), Oz Fox (STRYPER), Jeff Pilson (DOKKEN/ FOREIGNER), Pete Loran & Steve Brown (TRIXTER), Robert Mason & Jerry Dixon (WARRANT), Ted Poley (DANGER DANGER), Vic Rivera (CRUNCH), "Bumblefoot"(GUNS N' ROSES), Dale & Troy Thompson (BRIDE), Les Carlsen (BLOODGOOD), Harry Hess & Pete Lesperance (HAREM SCAREM), Kelly Keeling (BATON ROUGE), Chris Holmes (W.A.S.P.), Shawn Pelata (LINE OF FIRE), Stephen Chesney (FRONTIERS) and many others
MAIN LINE RIDERS looking for new band members:
From the groups MySpace profile:
We were operating for a while with a singer and a bassist from Indiana, but other than making our new album and a few gigs over the summer, it became evident that we could no longer continue working that way so we're lookin' for some new blood. We've got our good friend, D-Rail, playin' bass for us in an as-needed capacity, but once we find the right permanent bassist he's happy to step aside. Also, we're lookin' for a new drummer.
So...we need a new singer, bassist and drummer.
We're signed to Retroactive Records and have done two albums for them so far. Now...this ain't no big money making deal, but the label is solidly behind us and our records are available all over the world.
We practice in Elkton, Maryland on Sunday afternoons. We're lookin' for team playin' professionals with good equipment...people who know how to rock and still want to.
We are Christians and the band has a very clear message, so if that ain't what you're about then this ain't for you.
Contact us by messaging us here on MySpace or by emailing us at mlr@mainlineriders.com if you're interested.
Note: MLR debuted with the late eighties sunset strip style hair metal of Shot In The Dark (2007) before moving on to a AC/DC influenced sound with Worldshaker (2009). Both were released on Retroactive Records.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/mainlineriders
SIX MINUTE CENTURY recruits new bassist:
Press Release / Nightmare Recording Artist SIX MINUTE CENTURY is proud to announce the addition of bassist Michael Millsap to the band. Michael has been playing bass since the age of nine, and began performing at age 13. Michael received formal classical training at South Plains College and Wayland Baptist University. Michael has studied under bass legends Gary Willis, John Adams, and Dean Peer.
Professionally, Michael has played many styles of music from swing dance and country to rock and heavy metal. Michael recently played with 80’s rockers AXE, has backed up national gospel group “THE IMPERIIALS”, and notably Michael beat out bassists from across the United States for the bass slot in “TEXAS: The Musical Drama” in Palo Duro Canyon. If you would like to hear some of Michael’s then please visit his MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/millsapfrothmusic
Michael takes over for John Sample (Sampy) who was with the band since its inception. Everyone in SMC wish Sampy the best in his musical endeavors.
SIX MINUTE CENTURY is currently finishing up the songs for the follow up to their critically acclaimed debut CD Time Capsules, on Nightmare Records. The band plans to enter the studio to start recording in January. The, as of yet, untitled CD will be released in the summer of 2010.
"The new music from SIX MINUTE CENTURY, while maintaining their signature sound, (is) darker and more progressive. This band throws everything and the kitchen sink into their music, but in such a wonderfully unique and skilled way, you’re captivated and moved emotionally." Lance King, CEO of Nightmare Records
Official: www.sixminutecentury.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/sixminutecentury
Studio updates from STAIRWAY:
A series of updates from the UK heavy metal outfit in regards to its next album, Interregnum:
November 17, 2009
Pete (Jennens – guitars) is ripping through the new tracks at the moment; for all you shredders out there, we think you'll be satisfied, some of his best work me thinks!!
November 10, 2009
All the bass tracks are now finished. We are moving on to Pete's lead guitar work; finished a couple of tracks and we are scheduled to continue on for the rest of this week; sounding great so far!
October 22, 2009
We're getting on well with the new recordings. These passed two days we have done most of the bass parts, just a couple left to do; we're scheduled to finish them off next week - sounding good thus far!
October 19, 2009
We have now completed all the drum tracks and Andy (Edwards – drums) has gone for a long lie down! Now getting on with the bass parts; done the first few tracks and (all is) sounding good. We are really pleased with how the album is shaping up, and hoping to finish the bass parts during the course of this week.
October 12, 2009
(We) just finished the second drum session - sounding really great. Andy is on a roll, one more to come and that will be the drums done!
Note: STAIRWAY debuted in the early nineties on the White Metal Warriors – Last Ship Home compilation. Since then has released four albums, including No Rest – No Mercy (1993), Bleeding Heart (1999), On Hallowed Ground (2002) and The Other Side Of Midnight (2006).
Official: http://homepage.virgin.net/stairway.deoduce/news.htm MySpace: www.myspace.com/stairway
THEOCRACY introduces new bassist:
THEOCRACY is proud to announce Jared Oldham as their new bass player! Jared has been filling in and touring with the band for some time now, so making it official is a mere formality. Jared brings years of musical experience and a great singing voice, and his personality fits the band like a glove. Onward and upward!
Note: THEOCRACY got its start on Metal Ages records with its 2003 self-titled debut before moving on to Ulterium Records five years later for the follow up effort Mirror Of Souls. The group is currently at work on material for its third album.
Official: www.theocracymusic.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
NEWS BRIEFS
Brazil’s ADIASTASIA is in the studio at work on its next album, War Of The Worlds.
GUARDIAN will be heading into the studio in January to record a worship EP. The group is also considering invitations for an early 2010 tour of South America.
LINKS
PROJECT DAMAGE CONTROL uploaded three new songs, “Get Away”, “Who Are You” and “Take Me Down”, to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/vahproductionsaolcom
STATIC FUSE re-recorded its self-titled debut album from 2008. It can be download at: www.staticfuse.com
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
F.O.G. completes work on new album:
Judgement & Redemption, the most recent recording from the Aurora, Illinois based classic hard rock band F.O.G., was officially released on November 25, 2009.
Judgement & Redemption track listing:
1. “Message”
2. “Old Monsters”
3. “Cocktails & Dreams”
4. “Create”
5. “Blow The Trumpet”
6. “Dancin’ Dead”
7. “Bad Direction”
8. “Dreamer”
9. “I Wanna Live”
10. “Against The Ropes”
F.O.G. line up:
Dave "Rev" Miller - Vocals
Warren "W" Poi - Guitars
Ron "Bishop" Regnas - Bass
Jim "Animal" Groleske - Drums
F.O.G. describes its music and mission as follows:
“Some bands form in order to achieve fame and fortune. Some feel a burning desire to bend trends and push stylistic envelopes with esoteric art and deconstructionist ideals. Some bands wouldn’t be caught dead with the word deconstructionist hanging from their lips. They just want to rock, and hard. The classic rock band F.O.G. is as esoteric as a runaway freight train full of wild boars barreling down a mountainside at high noon. Their guitars scream with the passion of a thousand murderous band saws and their amps crackle and smoke with the rage of ten thousand mother lions.
And from their mouths fly swords, fire and mercy. They are on a mission – and yes, it is a mission from God. F.O.G., a name originally chosen as an acronym for "Four Old Guys," is an old-school hard rock and heavy metal band as bent on sharing their passion for Jesus Christ as they are on reviving good old-fashioned musical mayhem.”
Note: Judgement & Redemption is the group’s fourth full length album, released on the heels of Broken (2004), Visibility Clearing (2002) and Town To Town (2000).
Official: www.fog-rocks.com/index.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/fogrocks
New MEHIDA album released:
The latest from the Finnish melodic metal band:
The (new) album (The Eminent Storm) is now completed and we are happy with the results. The studio time was a great experience and the result sounds great. We received the mastered album from Universal Mastering Studios New York last week and are really pleased with the final sound. This one turned out to be really a powerful album, so be careful not to fall off your chair when you listen to it! I (keyboardist Mikko Harkin) was extremely happy to be able to share a cool guitar/keyboard duel with Olli (Tanttu) our second guitar player in the song “A Block Of Wood”. Hopefully you will enjoy listening to this album as much as we enjoyed making it.
The Eminent Storm track listing:
1. “Wrath Of Flesh Fellowship
2. “Masquerade”
3. “Until The Day Breaks”
4. “Land Of Oblivion”
5. “Dream Giver”
6. “Draw Near To My Soul”
7. “Abandoned”
8. “A Block Of Wood”
9. “Where Could I Flee”
10. “Urban Scream”
11. “Celestial Tears”
MEHIDA line up:
Thomas Vikstrom – Lead Vocals
Jani Stefanovic – Guitars
Olli Tanttu – Guitars
Mikko Harkin – Keyboards
Toni Maki-Leppilampi – Bass
Markus Niemispelto
The Eminent Storm was released by Bullroser Records in Finland on November 18, 2009.
Note: MEHIDA debuted in 2007 with the full length effort Blood & Water.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/mehida Bullroser Official: http://www.bullroser.com/epages/bullroser.sf
ORACLE re-issue announced:
Divebomb Records plans on releasing Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology, a compilation of material from the early nineties North Carolina based heavy metal band. The re-issue will include re-mastered versions of the group’s four song demo (1990), seven song EP entitled Selah (1992) and an unreleased two song demo.
Vocalist Shawn Pelata notes at the Christian Metal Realm that they are “searching the archives for rehearsal tapes (soundboard recordings) of never released songs” and also “looking for video to add content to the anthology release”.
Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology should be released in the spring of 2010.
Note: In 2002, Selah was reissued as a split CD with the band EMERALD on Magdelene Records.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/oracleusa
NEWS BRIEFS
Sweden’s REINXEED has put the finishing touches on its third album, Majestic. Look for it to be released in the near future.
SACRED WARRIOR played a recent warm up gig in preparation for an upcoming concert in Puerto Rico. They are currently at work on a new album, having finished five songs and working on five others.
SITE UPDATES
Angelic Warlord Discography section:
The focus of this week’s update is to announce the official launch of the new Angelic Warlord Discography section. You can check it out at: www.angelicwarlord.com/discography/discography.html
Please note that this is a selective discography focusing on artists covered at Angelic Warlord. It is also considered a “work in progress”. Hence, if you notice that several well known (or not so well known) bands are missing it means I have not had the opportunity to get to them yet. But I am working on it!
With that in mind, expect to see regular updates to the Discography section in the weeks to come.
INTERVIEWS
ROB ROCK interview at Virtuosity One:
“I am always aware of what I am trying to present as an album to my fans. I sit down with my producer/co-songwriter Roy Z and we discuss what we are shooting for when we begin a new Rob Rock album. Roy and I focus on the songs and overall vibe to each record, and then my band comes in and records the songs from the demos Roy and I prepare beforehand. The musicians have a tremendous burden to pull off the songs in an even stronger way than when they are demoed, as we leave a lot of room for interpretation from the band. This way we have an honest and true performance from the whole band and this adds to the power of the album.”
Read full interview: www.virtuosityone.com/robrock_int.htm
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
THE SACRIFICED joins Roxx Records roster:
Press Release / 2012 … the truth will be revealed!!! Roxx Records is pleased to announce the recent signing of… THE
Sacrificed!!! All of your questions will be answered this spring with the release of the Roxx Records debut full length CD 2012!
THE SACRIFICED, based in Lakeland, Florida have been together since 2005 and already have one independent demo CD entitled The Da Vinci Hoax under their belts. The demo has sold well and the band have been playing and getting rave reviews ever since! Now they are set to take the world by storm with the release of their most powerful work yet, 2012.
While reminiscent of bands such as early QUEENSRYCHE, SACRED WARRIOR, HAVEN and DELIVERANCE, we assure you these boys are no copy cats or tribute band. THE SACRIFICED are not afraid to tell the truth, with brave, inspirational lyrics that illustrate their strong stance for what they believe in. Combine all this with a classic power metal sound and 2012 is sure to please.
Pre-Orders are being accepted now, and you will want to get in early as the first 100 copies only will come with an exclusive demo disc comprised of the The Da Vinci Hoax and demos compiled from the bands pre THE SACRIFICED days when they were known as SEALED FATE and SCEPTRE.
Pre-Order: www.roxxproductions.com/store.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/thesacrificedx
NEWS BRIEFS
7 DAYS is currently mixing its new album. Look for it to come out in early 2010 and feature 7 or 8 tracks (including a 20 minute epic).
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
PASTOR BRAD signs with Roxx Productions:
Roxx Productions is proud to announce the signing of PASTOR BRAD to their roster! After 5 consecutive instrumental shred albums, PASTOR BRAD is back with a full-length vocal album! And while the old-school guitar shred influences are still here, this album will hit you square in the face with some of the heaviest sounding riffs ever recorded on any PASTOR BRAD album!
This album will also feature three very special guest vocalists: Rachael (RAVENSHEAD), Richie Z (BLIND SEVEN), and "Ski" (FAITH FACTOR)! And a very special guest appearance from original STRYPER keyboardist, Kenny Metcalf! If that’s not enough for you, you will also get plenty of shredding from PASTOR BRAD himself as he will be handling the bulk of the guitar work for this his Roxx Records debut release Break Out coming in Spring 2010.
As an introduction to the Roxx Productions family, PASTOR BRAD is teaming up with Roxx Productions and JBM Design to provide you a very special Limited Edition Christmas CD entitled Christmas Shred! This very special limited edition CD is being offered at $7.77 with free shipping world wide!! This special CD is being offered exclusively through Roxx Productions and PASTOR as both a Christmas Present and an Introduction of what’s to come from PASTOR BRAD and Roxx Productions!
This limited edition promotional release is limited to only 100 copies and will only be made available for a very limited time in November and December. Shipping in late November Christmas Shred will be in your hands in plenty of time to play around the Christmas tree!
Merry Christmas from PASTOR BRAD, JBM Design and Roxx Productions!
For full details and ordering information: www.roxxproductions.com
Official: www.guitarjams.net
LINKS
A new STATIC FUSE power ballad, “Come Home”, is now online: www.myspace.com/staticfuse
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
TEMPLE OF BLOOD to see vinyl re-issue of Prepare For The Judgement Of Mankind:
TEMPLE OF BLOOD, a four piece melodic thrash and speed metal band out of Huntsville, Alabama, recently struck a deal with Open Grave Records for a vinyl re-issue of their 2005 full length debut Prepare For The Judgement Of Mankind.
Look for the re-issue to be limited to 300 copies. An early 2010 release date is planned.
Prepare For The Judgement Of Mankind Track Listing:
1. “Destruction Of The Twin Cities”
2. “Conviction”
3. “Return to Eden”
4. “Spiritual Warfare”
5. “Trampling The Serpent”
6. “Seeking The Truth”
7. “Legion of the Crypts”
8. “The Ultimate Sacrifice”
9. “Realm of Insufferable Burning (The Horrors of Hell)”
10. “Deliver Us From Evil”
Note: “Deliver Us From Evil” is a DEADLY BLESSING cover in which Ski (FAITH FACTOR) makes a guest lead vocal appearance. TEMPLE OF BLOOD followed up with its sophomore effort, Overlord, in 2008.
Official: www.templeofblood.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/templeofblood
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BARREN CROSS introduces new lead vocalist:
Press Release / Dean Kohn had his first musical beginnings at a very early age. From playing the trumpet in grade school to Rock-n-Roll in high school, he loved to listen to bands like CHEAP TRICK and AC/DC.
In 1985, at the age of 20 years old, Dean began singing and excelled quickly to the point where in 1986 he decided to take up singing full-time. Over the next two years he took vocal lessons from Hollywood vocal coach Elizabeth Sabine, who has trained such vocalists as Michael Sweet (STRYPER), Don Barnes (38 SPECIAL) and Dave Mustaine (MEGADETH).
In 1988, Dean was singing lead vocals for the band ATTAKK, when friend and band mate, Hideo Inakuma, introduced him to the Japanese band LOUDNESS. Upon recording and pre-releasing a demo in Japan for the band ATTAKK, the members of LOUDNESS inquired if Dean would be willing to sing on their upcoming CD, Soldiers of Fortune. Munetaki Higuchi, the drummer for LOUDNESS, and Hideo Inakuma contacted Dean and they all agreed to meet and set recording dates. Although Dean began cutting tracks, Executive Producer, Max Norman, determined it would be better to replace Dean with Mike Vescara, whose vocals resembled more the prior singer’s. Disappointed but not discouraged, Dean kept pursuing his career.
In 1989, Dean met with guitarist Mick Zane and bassist Mark Behn, from the band MALICE. Dean was invited to join the band as lead vocalist. However, due to Dean’s battle with drugs and alcohol he felt he had to leave the band.
In 1991, Dean was accepted Christ into his life; however, his desire was to still sing and pursue a career in music.
But God kept pursuing Dean and in 1992, he felt that he needed to surrender his whole life to Christ and he entered rehab at Victory Outreach Men’s Home (VOMH). Here Dean was able to get clean and develop a (more) mature (faith) in Christ. Upon graduation, from VOMH, Dean laid his musical dream down and began working with the VOMH faculty, helping others discover a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Dean has been serving and helping to build this ministry for over 17 years now.
Dean’s desire to sing has never waned through the years, but as a fully committed Christian he realized that he needed to personally wait on God and His timing. Dean believes this is now the time. He contacted BARREN CROSS after noticing that they did not have a lead singer listed on the band’s MySpace (profile). Dean initially contacted Ray Parris (guitars) via email. He then had subsequent phone conversations with both Ray and Steve Whitaker (drums). Finally, Jim LaVerde (bass), Steve, Ray and Dean met and, after much prayer, Dean was asked to become the new lead vocalist for Barren Cross
Note: BARREN CROSS ranks with BLOODGOOD and STRYPER as one of the foundational bands in the Christian metal movement to come out of the eighties. Debuted in 1986 with the Star Song release Rock For The King before following up on Enigma Records with Atomic Arena (1988) and State Of Control (1989). The group released its final studio album in 1994, Rattle Your Cage.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/barrencross
DESYRE – Warning Of The Night release date announced:
Note: DESYRE is a Finnish hair metal band that previously put out a pair of demos in Hair Metal Madness (2004) and Out Of The Blue, Into The Red (2005). Warning Of The Night is the groups independently released full length debut.
Official: www.desyre777.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/desyre777
MIKE FLORIO update:
The latest from the progressive rock recording artist:
"First of all, I have just recently released a brand new single, titled "He Won't Last", that can be streamed from my website. "He Won't Last" is a powerful hard melodic-rocking romp! Joining me on this song is fiery guitarist David Wallimann (GLASS HAMMER) and Nashville session ace Jaymi Millard on bass. Check it out if you have a mere 4 minutes!
Work continues on my second solo album. I hope to finish recording it over the winter and be ready for mixing by the spring. Joining me on this album will be the same team that produced Arisen. This album picks up where Arisen left off, and I'm very pleased with the way it is coming along.
I am honored to be singing two songs with EVERLASTING ARMS at their CD release concert for their new album, On Broken Wings, in Staten Island, NY on October 18th. It feels good to get out of the studio and in front of an audience again!
Finally, CPR Volume 3 is now selling from my website at a reduced price. This is a fantastic collection of progressive rock from many talented artists. My contribution is a song called "The Wise Man", which is going to be included on the new album, and is currently only available on the CPR 3 compilation. You can listen to it at my website, and read more about the Christian Progressive Rock compilations at: www.cprogrock.com
As always, please check my website for more details on these items as well as project updates, and thanks for your continued support."
Note: MIKE FLORIO, a Westchester County, New York based vocalist/keyboardist, debuted in 2006 with the progressive rock of his first solo release, Arisen.
Official: www.massdream.com Further reading: HERE
GUNS N' ROSES & TRIXTER members added to new LIBERTY N' JUSTICE CD:
Press Release / Retroactive Records & LIBERTY N' JUSTICE finally can reveal the final track listing for LNJ's new album Light It Up! After months & months of revealing guest artists, the last song to be announced, "Wrestling With God", will feature TRIXTER members Pete Loran & Steve Brown with a guest guitar solo by Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal of GUNS N' ROSES!
The song was co-written by LNJ founder Justin Murr and Steve Brown (who all so produced the track). The album was also produced by Vic Rivera, Mike Layne, CJ Snare (who also did the pre-mastering), and Stephen Chesney. The album will be mastered by J. Powell at Steinhaus Mastering (who also mastered the latest releases from BRIDE, MAINLINE RIDERS, SAINT & GUARDIAN).
Matt Hunt of Retroactive Records stated," I've been a life long fan of Hard Rock and this is one of the best albums I have ever heard!"
The album has a January 19, 2010 release date planned.
Final Track Listing for LNJ - Light It Up:
1. “Light It Up” (Phil Lewis of LA GUNS & JK NORTHRUP)
2. “The Other Thief” (Dale and Troy Thompson of BRIDE)
3. “Blink” (Lynn Louise Lowrey of VIXEN and Eddie Ojeda of TWISTED SISTER)
4. “Do What You Believe” (CJ Snare & Bill Leverty of FIREHOUSE)
5. “Man vs. Mother Nature” (Ted Poley of DANGER DANGER and Vic Rivera of CRUNCH)
6. “Treading On Serpents” (Les Carlsen of BLOODGOOD and Oz Fox of STRYPER/BLOODGOOD)
7. “Uncle Sam” (Sheldon Tarsha of TARSHA/ADLER’S APPETITE and Jeff Pilson of DOKKEN/ FOREIGNER)
8. “Every Reason To Believe” (Kelly Keeling of BATON ROUGE/TSO and Kerri Kelli of ALICE COOPER)
9. “Wrestling With God” (Pete Loran, Steve Brown of TRIXTER & Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal of GN'R / Lita Ford)
10. “Best Time You Never Had" (Chris Jericho WWE Wrestler/ FOZZY & Phil Collen of Def LEPPARD)
11. “Beautiful Decision” (Harry Hess and Pete Lesperance of HAREM SCAREM)
12. “Drunk Dead Gorgeous” (Marq Torien of BULLET BOYS and Chris Holmes of W.A.S.P.)
13. “Greed” (Robert Mason of WARANT/LYNCH MOB and Jerry Dixon of WARRANT)
14. “For Better Or Worse” (Shawn Pelata of LINE OF FIRE & Stephen Chesney of FRONTIERS)
Other guest musicians: Eric Rango, Terry Ilous (XYZ), Chris Dickens (MISSION OF ONE), Marc Danzeisen (BULLETBOYS/ LITTLE CEASAR), Doug Odell (CRUNCH/ TNA) & John Pine.
Official: www.libertynjustice.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2
New album on the way from STATIC FUSE:
STATIC FUSE, an eighties influenced metal and hard rock project comprising vocalist Sonia Sauruk and guitarist Ian Keith Hafner, is currently at work on its next album.
Sonia goes into further detail at the Christian Metal Realm:
“The difference between this STATIC FUSE album and the first (self titled EP from 2008) is that Ian and I really got to talk about our idea about what we wanted the next album to sound like. What changes did we want to make or what styles did we want to add? We agreed that we wanted more blues in this album and wait until you hear Ian's amazing blues guitar! If you bought the first album you will hear this clearly in the song, "Blues at Dusk."
While untitled at the time of this writing, the album will be a full length release and comprise eight vocal pieces and an instrumental.
Look for it to come out by the end of the year. The opening track to the album, “Blowin’ In The Wind”, is available for streaming at: www.myspace.com/staticfuse
You can read the Angelic Warlord interview with Sonia & Ian: HERE
Official: www.staticfuse.com
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STRYPER: Murder By Pride limited edition picture LP announced:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are proud to announce the release of a limited 12" picture-disc edition of the latest STRYPER album Murder By Pride for the European market. A deal was inked with the Italian label Frontiers Records and the release date is set for December 4, 2009.
The LP will be strictly limited to 500 copies and comes with a full color poster inlay.
Side A:
1. “Eclipse Of The Son”
2. “4 Leaf Clover”
3. “Peace Of Mind”
4. “Alive”
5. “The Plan”
6. “Mercy Over Blame”
Side B:
1. “Murder By Pride”
2. “I Believe”
3. “Run In You”
4. “Love Is Why”
5. “Everything”
6. “My Love (I'll Always Show)”
The LP is available for Pre-Order at the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com
STRYPER: By His Stripes available for Pre-Order:
Press Release / STRYPER: By His Strypes is a 25 year visual history of your favorite yellow and black clad rockers! This high quality, hard cover coffee table book is packed with 200 pages of rare and never before seen pictures. The last chapter is dedicated to YOU, the fans, and features fan submissions from all over the world!
During the pre-order for the book, you will have the option to purchase the high gloss cover (shown), the Deluxe Limited Edition cover, or both!
The limited cover will feature the STRYPER logo and text in embossed gold foil on a faux leather cover resembling a bible. This beautiful cover is extremely limited, hand signed and numbered by the author, and only available during the pre-order!
The books will ship in December in time for Christmas. There will only be 1,000 copies pressed of "STRYPER: By His Strypes" worldwide.
Don't delay and miss out on owning one before they sell out!
Pre-Order: HERE
SWEET COMFORT BAND re-issued on Retroactive Records:
Christian rock pioneers hailing from Southern California, SWEET COMFORT BAND came together in the mid-seventies and comprised vocalist/keyboardist Bryan Duncan, guitarist Randy Thomas, bassist Kevin Thomson and drummer Rick Thomson. The group hit the scene in 1977 with its self-titled debut on Maranatha Records before moving on to Light Records for the follow up releases Breakin’ The Ice (1979), Hold On Tight (1979), Hearts Of Fire (1981), Cutting Edge (1982) and Perfect Timing (1984).
Initially playing a blend of “jazz-fusion-funk with rhythm and blues influences”, SWEET COMFORT BAND moved on to a heavier rock style for later recordings such as Cutting Edge and Perfect Timing.
All five SWEET COMFORT BAND Light Record releases have been re-mastered and will be re-issued on Retroactive Records on November 10, 2009.
Pre-order: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
NEWS BRIEFS
PASTOR BRAD signed with Roxx Productions for his next CD, Break Out. After four straight instrumental hard rock releases, the artist will be heading in a vocal direction this time around.
The new IMAGES OF EDEN album, Rebuilding The Ruins, is currently in the mixing stages. Expect a 75 minute conceptual work about changing the world for the better.
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• LINKS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• LABEL NEWS
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
• NEWS BRIEFS
BRIDE – Tsar Bomba
What it ultimately boils down to is this: what does the album sound like? Bride. In a nutshell, what we have in Tsar Bomba is a band being true to itself – and its roots in the process – while attempting to make the best record (its swan song) possible. And you know what? I cannot help but think Bride succeeded in achieving that goal. Read Full Review >>
THE LOU GRAMM BAND – The Lou Gramm Band
In 2002 Gramm’s desire to explore musical directions that would allow him to perform more than just his Foreigner hits caused him to leave the group. Subsequently putting together a new band with his brothers Richard (guitars & bass) and Ben (drums) along with guitarist Don Mancuso and keyboardist Andy Knoll, the recently formed five piece unit began performing in early 2004 and soon started work on an album covering spiritual classics of the past. Read Full Review >>
JACOBS DREAM – Beneath The Shadows
Musically, Beneath The Shadows finds Jacobs Dream continuing to head in power metal territory but with a bit more emphasis on melody this time around. Melody is the key word here in that this is perhaps the most “song orientated” album from the group to date. Read Full Review >>
KINETIC ELEMENT - Powered By Light
The artist initially put Kinetic Element together to perform the music of Starship Universe. The group, however, has expanded upon its repertoire by also incorporating select classic rock and progressive rock covers in addition to the material making up its independently released 2009 full length debut Powered By Light. Read Full Review >>
ROB ROCK – The Voice Of Melodic Metal, Live In Atlanta
The most accurate way to describe The Voice Of Melodic Metal – Live In Atlanta would be a “best of” retrospective of his solo material performed live. Yes, there is a heavy slant towards his two most recent albums, three and five songs each from Holy Hell and Garden Of Chaos respectively, but Rage Of Creation (two songs) and Eyes Of Eternity (one song) are represented as well. Read Full Review >>
SACRED WARRIOR – Obsessions
Obsessions found Sacred Warrior hitting its stride in peak form. The album maintains the group’s penchant for power metal with touches of the progressive but this time blending in the occasional commercial element. Read Full Review >>
THIEVES & LIARS - American Rock ‘N’ Roll
The group returns a year later with its sophomore outing American Rock ‘N’ Roll. The album finds Thieves & Liars continuing the 70’s influenced hard rock trend but now taking the more “stripped down” and “back to basics” approach. In other words, the group has “scaled things back” by simplifying the structure of its songwriting while still emphasizing a foundation of hard rock mixed with occasional blues elements. Read Full Review >>
UNDER COMMAND – Back In The Thick
Back In The Thick proves as aptly entitled work as you will find. Yes, an onslaught of thick (no pun intended) and crunchy guitars permeates the project – a hard hitting combination of straightforward hard rock and all out metal – along with sledgehammer drums and Wayne Johnson’s gravelly mid-ranged vocal presence. Read Full Review >>
LINKS
Three new songs from PROJECT DAMAGE CONTROL are available for listen: www.myspace.com/vahproductionsaolcom
“Morning News”, a new track off the upcoming TIM GAINES solo release Breakfast At Timothy’s, can now be streamed: www.myspace.com/timgainesmedia
THREAD OF THE MONTH
The Heart Of Metal forum features an ongoing discussion about the BLOODGOOD discography. Check it out: HERE
LABEL NEWS
ULTERIUM RECORDS update:
We're currently putting the finishing touches to an up-coming release that we hope to release this December. It's a limited edition picture disc release with a legendary band. We're really thrilled about this, and we hope to have some official news for you soon!
THEOCRACY, DARKWATER and HARMONY are preparing to enter the studio later this year, and should all have new releases out during 2010. SINBREED is also in studio right now recording at full speed, and their debut album will be released early 2010. During the coming months we'll also bring you news regarding some new re-releases that we're very excited about.
We are also currently talking to some very interesting bands about possible co-operations, so it looks like 2010 will be a year with many high-quality releases from us.
Thank you all for your support, we'll be back soon with more news!
Official: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
DARKWATER at work on new album:
The latest from the Swedish progressive metal band:
We’ve understood that a lot of people are curious and would like an update on what is going on with DARTWATER at the moment. It’s now been a while since we released our first album and we quite recently parted with our bass player. So what is really happening in the “dark waters”?
Regarding the bass player spot, we have auditioned several people but still haven’t found exactly what we are looking for. We will keep looking until we find the perfect match. In the meantime we will use Simon Andersson (ex-PAIN OF SALVATION) as a session player. He is an amazing bass player with lots of experience, and a better substitute would probably be impossible to find.
And what is happening with the new album? For quite some time we’ve gone through all the music (that we) had laying around, re-written a lot of it and written a bunch of new songs. So right now we have far too many songs to put on one album, or even ten albums. But we are doing our best to choose the most fitting songs for this up-coming album. We still have a lot of lyrics to write and also some melodies, but we are planning to head into the recording studios later this year. So some time next year there will be a new DARKWATER album out for you to enjoy.
Note: DARKWATER released its full length debut, Calling The Earth To Witness, on Ulterium Records in 2007. The group features four of the five original members of HARMONY in addition to a yet to be named bassist.
Official: www.darkwater.se MySpace: www.myspace.com/darkwaterofficial
FAITH FACTOR recruits new keyboardist:
Keyboardist David Peters has joined the ranks of FAITH FACTOR, a New Jersey Christian power metal band featuring former DEADLY BLESSING vocalist Ski. The group goes into further detail at its MySpace profile: “Dave just performed with us at the STRYPER 25th Anniversary Concert in Allentown last night. Dave's metal skills will be on a DELIVERANCE Tribute CD from The Christian Metal Realm and Roxx Productions. FAITH FACTOR recently recorded the tribute song "Weapons Of Our Warfare"!”
Faith Factor line up:
Norm “Ski” Kiersznowski - Vocals
Blaine “Priest” Booth - Lead Guitar
Chris “Moe” Matusieski - Lead Guitar
Joe “Slayer Of Darkness” Manghan - Bass
Dan “Karaoke Kid” Jefferson - Drums
David Peters - Keyboards
Note: FAITH FACTOR debuted in 2007 with the three song EP 07/07/2007 before signing to Retroactive Records for the full length follow up effort Against A Darkened Sky a year later. The band is currently at work on its next CD, The Wrath That Is Yet To Come.
Official: www.faithfactorband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/faithfactorrocks
GUARDIAN – First Watch re-issued on Retroactive Records:
Press Release / Retroactive Records are thrilled to announce the reissue of the legendary debut release by Christian metal powerhouse GUARDIAN.
GUARDIAN First Watch: 20th Anniversary Edition will offer 14 amazing tracks of classic melodic metal that comes in a full color, four panel Digipak (with a tray), properly re-mastered by J. Steinhaus for a maximum metal auditory experience. It will also feature exclusive liner notes by David Bach (bass), stunning enhanced (WAY better!) original artwork by the amazing Rex Zachary, and includes the original two bonus track exclusive to the original CD release in addition to the two Elefante brothers produced bonus tracks from the amazing and out-of-print 1987 California Metal CD compilation that preceded the release of First Watch in 1989!
Expect hook-laden melodic metal that combines huge STRYPER-like vocal harmonies with a top notch display of musicianship. Paul Cawley contributes a gritty but clean sounding mid-octave ranged vocal in addition to handling rhythm guitar duties. Guitarist Tony Palacios is a wonderful talent who brings out the best in the band's sound with his melodic flavored and fast paced soloing abilities. Drummer Rikk Hart and bassist David Bach comprise a tight sounding rhythm section
Note: First Watch is the debut release from GUARDIAN on Enigma Records. Produced and mixed by Oz Fox (STRYPER).
Pre-Order: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
MASTEDON – 3 details revealed:
Frontiers Records set to release new MASTEDON CD in Europe on November 6, 2009:
Press Release / MASTEDON is the Hard Rock band put together by former KANSAS singer John Elefante, together with his brother Dino in the late 80’s. The band's name was a pachyderm-inspired reference to the brothers' last name. Although John was an accomplished vocalist and performer, the first two MASTEDON albums featured multiple lead singers and performances by other artists, creating an eclectic sound anchored by John’s songwriting. His brother Dino played a prominent role, contributing songwriting and handling most of the guitar work. Some of the collaborators in the band's first two albums were Dave Amato (REO SPEEDWAGON), Stef Burns (Y&T), bassists John Pierce (Richard Marx) and John Patitucci plus guest vocalists David Pack (AMBROSIA), David Robbins (X-SINNER), Tom Bowes (TOWER OF POWER), James Dean Longacre (LIFE9) and Perry Lee (TRACER FOX).
In 1996 John Elefante started a solo career that brought him to release three successful albums more in the Adult Contemporary - Pop Rock vein. After a few years of hiatus, John decided to go back to his roots sound with a brand new MASTEDON album that - contrary to the predecessors – would only feature his amazing lead vocals. Musically, the new album, simply entitled 3 harkens back to the best of MASTEDON and to his work with KANSAS. None other than main KANSAS songwriter Kerry Livgren appears on lead guitar on this new release, collaborating on a 11 minute piece of music that any KANSAS fan will surely love! More famed musicians and such as Dave Amato (REO SPEEDWAGON), Anthony Sallee (WHITEHEART), Dan Needham (Michael McDonald, Neville Brothers, Amy Grant, Garth Brooks etc) and of course John’s brother Dino Elefante contribute to the performance of this superb new release.
Rich melodic harmonies and melodies are the keys to a MASTEDON record and 3 is clearly an instant winner in all its moments and will remain as an hallmark in John Elefante's career for many years to come.
3 track listing: “Revolution of Mind”, “Slay Your Demons”, “Nowhere Without Your Love”, “One Day Down By The Lake (See You Real Soon)”, “Water Into Wine (Fassa Rokka)”, “Questions (It’s About Time)”, “You Can’t Take Anything”, “Lying”, “The Western World”, “That’s What You Do”, “Dust In the Wind” (exclusive bonus track).
As a companion to this new release, Frontiers managed to acquire the rights for the re-release of MASTEDONS’s legendary debut album It’s a Jungle Out There!. Released originally in 1989, it charted at #25 in the Billboard Top Contemporary Christian chart. To this day, this album is still considered classics in the genre and has reached some amazing prices in the trades on E-bay. Frontiers new reissue includes full lyrics and three bonus tracks” “Wasn't It Love" (from the compilation California Metal) and live versions of “Islands In The Sky” and “Right Hand” recorded live at Cornerstone in 1991.
It’s A Jungle Out There track listing:
“It’s A Jungle Out There”, “Glory Bound”, “This Is The Day”, “Love Inhalation”, “Islands In The Sky”, “Get Up”, “Love That Will Survive”, “Innocent Girl”, “Shine On”, “Right Hand”, “Wasn’t It Love”, “Islands In The Sky” (Live at Cornerstone '91); “Right Hand” (Live at Cornerstone '91)
Official: www.johnelefante.com/jmla
Studio report from SAINT:
Vocalist Josh Kramer offers an update regarding the group’s next album, Hell Blade:
“Dee (Harrington – guitars) is recording for the upcoming project in Rich's (Lynch – bass) studio as I write. My vocals are done on Crime Scene Earth remake and the tracks are getting mastered right now. Ready for release within a matter of days. After recording six songs including the title track of Hell Blade, my voice is ready to take a break. Back in the studio Monday to continue recording vocals.”
Josh also discusses the decision to perform only three songs on (the original version of) CSE:
“Folks are asking why I didn't sing the songs that Rich sang the lead on CSE. Ok, I confess, I talked Rich into it. I take full responsibility for our fun little experiment. Hey, I loved what he did on CSE. Even though I am now singing 99.3% of the lead vocals on CSE, I made sure that he gets to sing a few lines that only he can do so well with his grit, growling, snarling, and head biting way. Rich is a killer supporting vocalist and I think you will like what we have done. More new stuff on the way!”
Note: Classic Christian metal band best known for eighties releases Warriors Of The Son (1984), Time’s End (1986) and Too Late For Living (1988). SAINT reunited following the turn of the century and recorded In The Battle (2004), The Mark (2006) and Crime Scene Earth (2008).
Official: http://saintsite.com
STAIRWAY making progress on next album:
The latest concerning the next album, Interregnum, from the UK based heavy metal outfit:
After a very uneasy and upsetting period over the past few months due to illness, we are happy to tell you all that we have now returned to recording the new STAIRWAY album, which we started at the beginning of this year.
All the rhythm guitars tracks and the harmony vocal tracks were done earlier in the year; Andy (Edwards) has started the drums tracks and has completed the first 4 songs.
We have scheduled some more sessions and hope to complete all the drum tracks in the next week or so. This will leave us to concentrate on Pete’s (Jennens) lead solos etc, which we hope to get on to in the next few weeks.
Note: Debuted in the early nineties on the White Metal Warriors – Last Ship Home compilation. Since then STAIRWAY has released four full length albums, with the most recent, The Other Side Of Midnight, coming in 2006.
Official: homepage.virgin.net/stairway.deoduce/news.htm MySpace: www.myspace.com/stairway
TILES at work on new material:
An update from the Detroit, Michigan progressive rock outfit:
The season premier of A&E's Parking Wars will feature a small bit of our song "Static" (from Presents of Mind). The episode will first air Tuesday, October 6th at 10pm EST. Visit the A&E site for more details and additional show times.
Next year marks the 15th anniversary of the international release of our debut CD Tiles. We have been discussing what to do to commemorate the event and thought it might be a good time for an official live CD... though probably just a self-released, limited edition, available through our website (and maybe one download site) - type of thing. So while we figure out the production details visit our message board and make your song requests.
Work on new material is going well. In addition to the (15) songs already sketched out is the resurrection of "Destiny Undelivered," a 25-minute song cycle left over from the Window Dressing era. We'll be auditioning these new tunes as we continue to play throughout the Detroit area in the coming months.
Note: TILES brings a RUSH influenced progressive rock sound. The group got its start in the nineties with the full length releases Tiles (1994), Fence The Clear (1997)and Presence Of Mind (1999). Turn of the century found TILES following up with Window Dressing (2004) and Fly Paper (2008).
Official: www.tiles-music.com/index2.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/tilesmusic
NEWS BRIEFS
ADIASTASIA is currently in the studio at work on its next album, War Of The Worlds.
Athens, Georgia based THEOCRACY is close to completing the songwriting process of its third album, untitled at the time of this writing. The group is scheduled for a European tour later this month.
Another X-SINNER album is in the works. New song titles include “Devil Lover”, “Imposter” and “Live In Hell”.
Update Archives: 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006
