METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
LOU GRAMM signs with Spectra Records:
Press Release / The new Christian album from Lou Gramm is in the mastering stages and will be released on Spectra Records. Artwork and packaging are being completed – we will keep you posted once a release date nears.
The artists provides further detail about the project in an article at Billboard.com earlier this summer:
Gramm, who has been a born again Christian since the early '90s, tells Billboard.com that the as-yet-untitled album "rocks from one end to the next -- that kind of attitude but with a different subject matter." He recorded it in his hometown of Rochester, N.Y., with his band, which includes brothers Ben and Richard and Don Mancuso from his pre-FOREIGNER band, BLACK SHEEP. The album will be released by Spectra Records.
Gramm, who left FOREIGNER for a second time in 2003, says that his recovery from a benign brain tumor in the late '90s gave him the impetus for many of the album's faith-based songs. "It's about how you can be so out of line with the way God would have you be and maybe have a major incident in your life kind of wake you up," he explains. "I had my priorities not in order and I just think I'm looking at life in general a little bit differently."
Lou Gramm online: www.lou-gramm.com & www.facebook.com/lou.gramm
IMPELLITTERI - Wicked Maiden to receive European release date:
Press Release / IMPELLITTERI's long-awaited new album, Wicked Maiden, will be released in Europe on April 24 via Metal Heaven Records.
Due in Japan on January 21, 2009 via Victor Entertainment, Wicked Maiden, which reunites main man Chris Impellitteri with longtime lead vocalist and writing collaborator Rob Rock, is "IMPELLITTERI's metal masterpiece," according to a press release. The band - featuring Impellitteri, Rock, bassist James Pulli and drummer Brandon Wil - "challenged the boundaries of conventional metal by utilizing music theory, technique, innovation, technology, and creative story telling. The result is an intense guitar driven metal album that will satisfy the appetite of any true metal fan. Wicked Maiden features memorable guitar riffs, fast shredding guitar solos, amazing screaming vocals, exciting lyrical content, and a mean heavy rhythm section."
Wicked Maiden took three years to complete from the writing through the mixing and mastering. Engineer and co-producer Greg Reely worked tirelessly to create a sonic freight train.
Commented Rock: "The record is pure metal with screaming vocals, shredding guitar solos, killer rhythm section, and a fat production. I am sure that all the fans of the classic Rob and Chris Impellitteri albums will be very pleased with our new release."
"Wicked Maiden is by far the most amazing recording I have been involved with," according to IMPELLITTERI main man/guitarist Chris Impellitteri. "It is filled with amazing riffs, fast shredding solos, screaming vocals, and, of course, a brutal rhythm section."
He added, "The goal of this record was to make a historic album that will rival Van Halen 1, OZZY's Blizzard Of Oz, PANTERA's Cowboys From Hell, YNGWIE's Rising Force, METALLICA's Master of Puppets, and even new artists like CHILDREN OF BODOM and AVENGED SEVENFOLD."
Wicked Maiden track listing:
1. “Wicked Maiden”
2. “Last Of A Dying Breed”
3. “Destruction”
4. “Garden Of Eden”
5. “The Vision”
6. “Eyes Of An Angel”
7. “No More School”
8. “Wonderful Life”
9. “Holy Man”
10. “Battle Rages”
IMPELLITTERI online: www.facebook.com/chris.impellitteri.7
NEWS BRIEFS
* JACOBS LADDER is the new band of Matt Harding (APOSTLE): www.myspace.com/thejacobsladder3
* MAJESTIC VANGUARD update: “The (past several) years have been hard for MAJESTIC VANGUARD. You all know the story by now with Peter’s (Sidgriddon – lead vocals) vocal cords, his decision to leave MV and all the other issues the band has (faced). Somehow we have never been able (to get back) on the right track when we have been forced to deal with (issues) not concerning the music! It’s been very annoying never receiving the tools to start work (on a new) album and (begin) touring. We have come to a point when we see the need to reorganize the band. It’s time to proceed in a new direction. A lot of changes have been made and more is about to embark! We will try to work towards the future in a way that actually can meet the needs of both our families and the band. We have a mission to accomplish and we’re hungry to meet you soon again on tour, but we also ask for your patience - a lot of work lay ahead.”
INTERVIEWS
Angelic Warlord interview - Matt Smith of THEOCRACY
What are your feelings about Mirror Of Souls? Are you happy with the way the album turned out? And how has the response been so far?
"Very happy. I still really enjoy listening to it, even though there are things I can nitpick about it that bug me now--but I think that’s the case with any artist. I’m not one of these, “Now that it’s done, I never want to hear it again” guys. When I write, I’m writing as a fan, and trying to come up with songs that I would want to listen to. So I really enjoy the album, just from the perspective of an outside listener, now that I’ve had time to step away from it a little bit." Read Full Interview >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
JON HOOPER - Doorways To Other Worlds re-issued:
Press Release / Guitarist Jon Hooper is best known for his involvement in UNFORSAKEN, an Ontario, Canada based eighties influenced hard rock project that put out its full-length debut, Not Alone, in 2005. The instrumental hard rock solo album that Hooper released the year prior, Doorways To Other Worlds, was recently re-issued by Unforsaken Productions.
Commented Hooper: “I'd been writing the songs on this album over the previous decade. When I began writing, they were intended only for my own listening pleasure, but my friends heard some of the songs and encouraged me to do a CD, so I finally decided to record them and share them with everyone. So I hope you enjoy what I have put together for you. Please feel free to e-mail me and let me know what you think.”
Doorways To Other Worlds track listing:
1. “Grind”
2. “The Journey”
3. “Radio Intro”
4. “The Final Battle”
5. “Frozen In Time”
6. “Industrial Groove”
7. “Radial Boogie”
8. “War Machine”
Unforsaken Productions online: www.unforsaken.ca/index.html
Jon Hooper online: www.unforsaken.ca/Jon/main.html
INCARNATE details revealed:
Press Release / Unforsaken Productions (Canada) announces the release of the debut full-length by INCARNATE. The self-titled release is now available online for worldwide sale through the Unforsaken Productions website: www.unforsaken.ca/UPOS/main.html
A heavy metal project featuring UNFORSAKEN vocalist Thomas Wilson, Incarnate was recorded primarily by Wilson, with additional tracks recorded by former UNFORSAKEN bassist Sheldon D'Costa. Guest appearances are made by Jon Hooper (UNFORSAKEN), JD Evans (LETTER 7), Chris Dickens (MISSION OF ONE), Brad Windlan (PASTOR BRAD) and more.
More than 60 minutes in length, Incarnate is a fast moving concept album about the life of Jesus Christ, focusing on the difference He can make in our lives today.
Incarnate track listing:
Act I:
1. “Rebellion”
2. “Paradise Lost”
3. “Follow The Star”
4. “Incarnation”
5. “The Sacrifice”
6. “Golgotha”
7. “It Is Finished”
8. “Death’s Demise”
Act II:
1. “Ways Of The World”
2. “Prodigal”
3. “Psychotropic Terror”
4. “Desperate Times”
5. “Believe in Me”
6. “The Return Home”
7. “Resolution”
8. “Serpent’s Lie”
INCARNATE online: www.incarnatemetal.com
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
SIN DIZZY - He’s Not Dead re-issued by Girder Music:
Press Release / SIN DIZZY arrived on the heals of platinum recording artist STRYPER. Formed in May of 1994 by guitarist Oz Fox and bassist Tim Gaines after STRYPER disbanded, SIN DIZZY released their self-produced full length debut He’s Not Dead on October 10, 1998. It sold well among Christian metal fans, especially those who followed STRYPER. However, only a limited number of copies of He’s Not Dead were produced and sold. Now, after being out of print for years, He’s Not Dead has been digitally re-mastered and repackaged (with new album artwork) in this very special limited edition re-issue- with liner notes and historical band photos as well.
He’s Not Dead track listing:
1. “He’s Not Dead”
2. “I Gave It All To Him”
3. “Psalm 23”
4. “Enter Me”
5. “Sacred Blood”
6. “Back In Time”
7. “Rise Above”
8. “Long Way To Heaven”
9. “When The Son Comes Back”
10. “Hebrew Kings”
SIN DIZZY online: www.sindizzy.com
X-SINNER - World Covered In Blood updates:
The Southern California based group announces release of third full-length album and video (seen below) of the title track:
November 21, 2008:
“The new album CD's are in and shipping! You can order them now or wait until they are in the stores. Image Records is working on the distribution right now. Thanks to all who are pre-ordering their copy! A Los Angeles record release party is in the works with details to follow on our schedule page. The band may end up laying low for the holidays and then pick up the World Covered In Blood tour early 2009. Another contest involving a quiz on something specific about the album cover is in the works as well.”
September 21, 2008:
“After re-mastering one of the songs three times, the album finally is back on track to being pressed. Image Records will be offering direct hard copy sales to fans from their site utilizing PayPal in the next week and all the downloads will be available in the next few days. I-Tunes and the rest of the online downloading companies will follow after that. Reviews have been awesome and have been exceeding our expectations! After such a long and hard fought battle to get this album to the light of day it is very rewarding to hear how much others like the project. Thanks to everyone involved and to all who waited so long for this!”
September 8, 2008:
“After completing mastering at the end of August, the band decided to re-master one song that didn't turn out exactly like they wanted it to in the first run of mastering. That is now done and the disc is back on track to manufacturing next week Image will probably start taking presale orders next week too and utilize PayPal as the means to purchase the CD from all you fans.”
July 23, 2008:
“Mastering prior to manufacturing is taking longer than anticipated as the band plays the waiting game to see their labor of love come to completion.... "The bizarre that has plagued this project from the beginning continues even after the mix was finished" says lead vocalist Rex Scott. "We thought we were finally home free once we got the mix done but that sadly has not been the case". More strange things have transpired to delay the album like the disappearance of a veteran engineer called upon to master the project. "We have no idea where he is or what happened to him - we are really concerned".
Alternate avenues of mastering are now being pursued by the band and their label Image Records to get the new CD into the hands of fans as soon as possible. Plans are proceeding, however, and select radio stations are receiving the song World Covered In Blood via a special download offered by Image Records for airplay. That song will be the first video from the album as well. If you are a radio station and would like to participate in this promotion just email the band from their website and your request will be forwarded to Image Records.”
July 6, 2008:
“The new album is done being mixed and is onto mastering and manufacturing! We were going to attempt a retail debut at Cornerstone 2008 at the end of June but just like the rest of this albums recording delays during the entire tracking period, it will now be for sale shortly after. The mastering has taken longer than we anticipated. Keep all those encouraging emails coming!”
May 11, 2008:
“The new album World Covered In Blood is getting close to manufacturing! The album art insert is being completed as we speak and the final song is being mixed. Mastering and manufacturing are right around the corner (at last!!!) We hope to be ready to press by the end of May or the first week of June. Great reviews from mainstream press on our last release Fire It Up are coming in from Europe and Australia. It is only wetting the appetite for the new album.”
April 6, 2008:
“The mixing of World Covered In Blood continues and is sounding better everyday. Mixes are being completed in the Los Angeles area and then sent around the world to guitarist Greg Bishop in Australia, bassist Rob Kniep in Las Vegas and Image Records in Philly for all to approve or recommend changes. Rex is on site to oversee and direct the mixing first hand. The album cover design contest is now over and the label and band are going through all the entries to pick a winner over the next couple weeks. Thanks to all who took the time to design a cover and enter!”
World Covered In Blood track listing:
1. “Back In Red”
2. “What Rock Is For”
3. “Holy Ghost & Fire”
4. “World Covered In Blood”
5. “Storm On The Horizon”
6. “Ready To Go”
7. “Forgive Them”
8. “Who’s Your Friend”
9. “Wanna Be Set Free”
10. “Got Something To Say”
11. “That Aint Me”
X-SINNER online: www.x-sinner.org & www.facebook.com/pages/X-Sinner
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
MENCHEN full length debut, Red Rock:
Press Release / Retroactive Records has announced the release of the debut album from MENCHEN, entitled Red Rock. The album is truly a collaboration of the most talented players in the metal scene. Bill Menchen (TITANIC, THE SEVENTH POWER, FINAL AXE) dominates as a master on guitar, Robert Sweet (STRYPER) handles drums, Tony Franklin (WHITESNAKE, QUIET RIOT, THE FIRM) is one of the world's most sought-after and recognizable bassists, and vocals by the ultra-talented HIS WITNESS lead singer, Ken Redding, all work together to create this stunning masterpiece!
Red Rock does a great job of building off the influences and former bands of these great players, while coming up with something inventive. With stunning artwork by Finland's Jan Yrlund, complex-yet-melodic hooks, and soaring vocals, this new masterpiece is sure to delight fans of DIO, SACRED WARRIOR, BARREN CROSS, and RUSH.
Red Rock track listing:
1. “Train Crossing”
2. “Moon Sun”
3. “A Salt Mine”
4. “Ashes And Dust”
5. “Forty”
6. “Shifting Sand”
7. “Time To Ride”
8. “Snowy Plain”
9. “Wild Wind Blows”
10. “Desert Rain”
Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html
Bill Menchen online: www.billmenchen.com & www.facebook.com/bill.menchen
SEVENTH AVENUE - Southgate re-issued on Ulterium Records:
Press Release / The German power metal band SEVENTH AVENUE will have their classic album Southgate from 1998 re-issued by Ulterium Records in ealry 2009. Southgate was originally released on Treasure Hunt Records 1998 and received a very good response around the world. The album has been out of print for many years now, so fans of German power metal in the vein of old Helloween and Gamma Ray, don’t miss out!
The release date for Southgate is set to January 23rd, 2009 world-wide.
Southgate track listing
1. “Introduce”
2. “Southgate”
3. “Protection Of Fool”
4. “Carol”
5. “Father”
6. “May The Best One Win”
7. “Puppet Of The Mighty”
8. “Storm”
9. “Heart In Your Hand”
10. “Nameless Child”
11. “Big City Sharks”
12. “Goodbye”
SEVENTH AVENUE line-up:
Herbie Langhans - Vocals, Guitars
Andi Gutjahr - Guitars
Willian Hieb - Bass
Mike Pfluger - Drums
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
NEWS BRIEFS
* Interview with Matt Hunt (Retroactive Records): www.heartofmetal.net/t7977-an-interview-with-matthew-hunt-retroactive-records
* Australia’s EARLY WARNING SYSTEM has called it quits. The good news, however, is that guitarist Kevin Windross is working on an instrumental solo album entitled Standing Outside Circles.
FEATURED REVIEWS
DELIVERANCE - Deliverance (Retroactive re-issue)
The Los Angeles based melodic speed metal outfit Deliverance burst onto the scene in 1986 with its critically acclaimed six song demo Greetings Of Death. Putting together its second demo, After Greetings, in 1987, the band placed the tracks “Attack” and “A Space Called You” on the California Metal compilation later the same year. Read Full Review >>
DELIVERANCE - Weapons Of Our Warfare (Retroactive re-issue)
Recorded in follow up to the groups critically acclaimed self-titled debut from 1990, Weapons Of Our Warfare finds Deliverance continuing to head in a melodic speed metal and thrash direction but with more focused songwriting, improved production values and superior packaging (particularly the album artwork). If anything, Weapons… takes things to the next level in comparison to Deliverance- an album that was already very, very good to begin with. Read Full Review >>
DRIVER - Sons Of Thunder
What Driver brings to the table is eighties influenced melodic metal with an edge. Heavier than projects Rob Rock had been previously associated with (at the time), such as Joshua and Angelica, Driver reflects that “edge” in question with its penchant for the guitar driven- all the while delivering a sound that is catchy without trending towards the overtly commercial. Read Full Review >>
FAITH FACTOR - Against A Darkened Sky
Against A Darkened Sky, the groups fall of 2008 Retroactive full length debut, brings a traditional classic power metal sound certain to appeal to fans of Sacred Warrior, Recon, Jacobs Dream (David Taylor era), Fates Warning, old Queensryche, Crimson Glory and Iron Maiden. Those whose musical tastes trend towards classic metal – think Saint and Judas Priest – should find a lot to like in Faith Factor as well. Read Full Review >>
HARMONY - Dreaming Awake (Ulterium re-issue)
After recruiting bassist Andreas Olsson (Narnia, Divinefire & Wisdom Call) and keyboardist Magnum Holmberg, Harmony entered the studio and recorded its 2003 Massacre Records full length debut Dreaming Awake. Out of print and hard to find for several years, Dreaming Awake was re-issued in the fall of 2008 by the bands new label home, Ulterium Records. Read Full Review >>
HARMONY - Chapter II: Aftermath
On Chapter II: Aftermath Harmony continues to combine elements of melodic metal and power metal. Where the group diverges from the past, however, is that it now heads in a heavier and faster musical direction. Read Full Review >>
INCARNATE - Incarnate
Incarnate can best be described as straightforward heavy metal with strong thrash overtones. The likes of “Paradise Lost”, “Incarnation” and “Death’s Demise”, for example, walk a fine line between metal and thrash while hard hitting tracks “Prodigal” and “Psychotropic Terror” are, for a lack of better words, as heavy as they get. Read Full Review >>
THEOCRACY - Mirror Of Souls
Those who enjoy the self-titled debut will find a lot to like in Mirror Of Souls. The same catchy choruses and huge melodies, abundant backing vocals, epic arrangements and progressive elements make their presence felt: If anything, the music here is on the more progressive side of things in comparison to Theocracy. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
EDEN’S WAY to release new album, IV:
Press Release / Since forming in 2002, Knoxville, Tennessee based EDEN’S WAY have honed their music by playing dozens of shows throughout the southeast U.S. and have independently released three full-length studio albums: T self-titled debut in 2003, a sophomore follow-up entitled 4-4-1 in 2004, and their third CD, Rock Solid, in 2006. EDEN’S WAY fourth full length album, EW4, will be released on Soul Joy Records in late 2008.
Musically, EDEN’S WAY trends toward an arena-rock sound featuring radio-sensible compositional elements, highly polished studio production values and solid performances that showcase vocal and lead guitar capabilities. The band has often been compared to PETRA, WHITECROSS and STRYPER. The lyrics of EDEN’S WAY are the heart of the band's mission, however, as every song aims to touch the listener with biblical messages.
IV track listing:
1. “Shout”
2. “Everybody Wants Him”
3. “I Live For Him”
4. “All I Need”
5. “Tough Love”
6. “It’s All About Him”
7. “Messiah”
8. “Jesus Is His Name”
9. “All For Love”
10. “Fight”
11. “Untitled”
EDEN’S WAY online: http://edenswayband.com & www.facebook.com/edens.way
SWEET CRYSTAL is Still Standing:
Press Release / Nightcrier Music have released the full-length debut (from 2001) of melodic rock band SWEET CRYSTAL on its independent music label solely on the Internet. (The album is also available at CD Baby.) Taking advantage of the webs worldwide reach, the album entitled Still Standing has been gathering accolades and airplay from such diverse locales as the Netherlands, Germany and New Zealand. The continued international acceptance and growing requests for the music has been a pleasant surprise to all the band members.
Commented vocalist & keyboardist Marq Q Speck: “Weve always wanted to reach the world with our music, and the Internet has become our passport.”
“Were pleased that there is an audience who still desire strong melodic content in the music as well as the more positive direction in the lyrics”, explains guitarist Bill Blatter in a recent interview for the Dutch rock magazine/website StrutterZine.
SWEET CRYSTAL line up:
Marq Andrew Speck - Lead Vocals & Keyboards
Bill Blatter - Guitars
Steve Weiser - Electronic & Acoustic Drums
Still Standing track listing:
1. “Do You Believe In Love”
2. “Soldier Of The Crown”
3. “When I Think Of You”
4. “This Way Forever”
5. “Messiah Song”
6. “In God We Trust”
7. “No Two Masters”
8. “In Your Name”
9. “Stand Up & Shout”
10. “Looking Back”
11. “Ominicity”
SWEET CRYSTAL online: http://sweetcrystal.com & www.facebook.com/SweetCrystalBand
ZEPHANIAH release full length debut, Stories From The Book Of Metal:
Press Release / Fort Wayne, Indiana is not a city known for its power metal. Since 2005, however, ZEPHANIAH has taken it upon themselves to change that. Disinterested in the repetitive sound of the death metal and hardcore bands in the area, ZEPHANIAH focused on introducing a new style of music to the Midwest scene, drawing inspiration from bands such as MANOWAR, SYMPHONY X and a variety of European power metal acts. A fairly young band (members aged 19-24), ZEPHANIAH is making a name in the region and creating a lasting impression among fans.
With the release of their latest album, aptly titled Stories from the Book of Metal, this group of Christians has claimed a stake in the hearts of their fans with stories of pirates, battle, and the power of metal. Combining elements of power, progressive, and neo-classical metal, ZEPHANIAH brings forth a unique sound, filled with tightly-woven guitar harmonies and solos, speed-metal drumming, and strong vocal melodies.
ZEPHANIAH line up:
Logan Detwiler – Lead Vocals
Justin Zych - Guitars
Tyson Miller - Guitars
Tyler Sumwalt - Bass
Ian Bender - Drums
Stories From The Book Of Metal track listing:
1. “The Metal Prayer”
2. “Antietam”
3. “Avenger Of Souls”
4. “Deep Breath”
5. “Sword Of The King”
6. “Fight For Love”
7. “Blackbeard’s Revenge”
8. “The Lone Warrior”
9. “Flame Of The Dragon”
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BRIDE update:
"BRIDE is gearing up for their most ambitious CD release ever. In 2009 BRIDE will produce and release their final work. Thirty songs are being considered for this project. Other than Dale and Troy (Thompson), the founders of BRIDE, no other musicians have been announced.
"On December 16, 2008 Dale will undergo his second shoulder surgery. After surgery and realistic recovery and healing time, BRIDE will begin the recording process.
"Over the past two decades BRIDE has offered a wide variety of music. A lot of time and effort has gone into making BRIDE a recognizable name in Christian hard rock / metal scene. The musical climate has changed a great deal over the past several years and BRIDE finds itself on the outside looking in. Young new talent has burst on the scene and bands like BRIDE are still only admired by devoted fans that have followed their careers. BRIDE hopes to reward the fans that have inspired the band to keep pressing forward with a masterful Spirit -filled CD that will encourage these fans for years to come."
BRIDE online: http://bridepub.com & www.facebook.com/BridebandOn
PASTOR BRAD announces Heavenly Shred track listing:
As taken from the Christian Metal Realm:
“Hey guys, I haven't been able to hang out here at the Realm much lately- been real busy trying to finish this album up. I very proud of the way it turned out. All of the guest players just did an excellent job with their tracks- Dee Harrington (SAINT), David Wallimann, Jeff Garner, Jim Griffin and Mario Barisic and the entire CMR Crew on "The Christian Metal Realm" tune.”
You can hear the HEAVENLY SHRED demo MP3, including approximately 30 seconds of every song, on the album at my sound click page: www.soundclick.com/pastorbrad
Everyone who pre-orders by Sunday, November 2 will get the CD as soon as I get it back from duplication. Heavenly Shred is slated to be released at CD Baby on Thanksgiving.
Heavenly Shred track listing:
1. “Oh Little Town of Bethlehem”
2. “O Come O Come Emmanuel”
3. “Deck The Halls”, “Silent Night”
4. “Joy to the World”
5. “Nothing But the Blood”
6. “Holy Holy Holy”
7. “I'll Fly Away”
8. “Oh How I Love Jesus”
9. “Carol of the Bells”
10. “Christian Metal Realm”
11. “Psalm 33:3”
PASTOR BRAD online: http://pastorbradrocks.com & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks
SHADOW GALLERY mourns passing of lead vocalist:
Press Release / Vocalist Michael A. Baker of progressive metal band SHADOW GALLERY died on Wednesday afternoon, October 29, 2008 after suffering a heart attack. He was 45 years old.
Mike was a founding member of SHADOW GALLERY and for the past 16 years, helped shape the band's sound with his magical voice. Additionally, he made many appearances on rock records around the world.
According to a statement from SHADOW GALLERY, "Those who knew Mike best were moved by his gentle spirit, sincere kindness, fun nature and passion for both music and sports. He was a warrior in the studio, a true professional. Mike was our friend, our singer and our brother. We loved him and will miss him enormously, but he will always be remembered in our hearts and through his music."
Magna Carta Records last year issued a "best-of" collection from SHADOW GALLERY, entitled Prime Cuts. The CD featured 12 tracks chosen by the band, including a previously unreleased demo from the Carved In Stone sessions ("Rule The World") and edits of two tracks from Legacy ("The Crusher" and "Colors").
SHADOW GALLERY began in the early 1980s under the name SORCERER, changing their name just in time to sign with Magna Carta Records in 1991. It was a young band joining forces with a young label. Both were doing something brave and fraught with risk: They were making music that is complex enough to merit careful attention, built around a compelling but oddly non-commercial blend of virtuosity and emotion, and saying that maybe there's a place in the world for something other than three-minute songs. SHADOW GALLERY uses its chops to tell stories — big stories, sometimes so big they have to span across multiple albums.
SHADOW GALLERY's fifth album, Room V, was released in May 2005 via InsideOut Music.
SHADOW GALLERY online: www.shadowgallery.com & www.facebook.com/OfficialShadowGallery
NEWS BRIEFS
* Guitarist Joshua Perahia on the next JOSHUA album, Resurrection (as taken from a recent online interview): “Jeff Fenholt has always been my favorite singer, as he did an incredible job on my second album, Surrender. He and I are working on the newest album (entitled) Resurrection. I know it will be my greatest album yet. Intense Defense has always been my favorite, but this album has everything I have in my musical abilities all in one. This album will have power, and message that pertains to our world today, and my feelings in faith. Jeff Fenholt's voice is out of this world. His power on my newest song, "The Dark Side of Man", should be a moving experience for all JOSHUA fans.”
* YouTube is home to footage of vintage (early eighties) RESURRECTION BAND: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGcJa7jgBBI
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
DELIVERANCE re-issues on Retroactive Records:
DELIVERANCE - Deliverance:
Press Release / Frightening, awe-inspiring, and absolutely relentless, DELIVERANCE's self-titled album dropped onto the scene in 1989 with all the finesse of a metallic sledgehammer across the forehead. In 1987, DELIVERANCE had made their presence known in dramatic fashion on the California Metal compilation (a sampler in the vein of Metal Blade's Metal Massacre compilations) with "Attack" being the very first thrash/speed metal song with a strong Christian message to ever be released.
Overwhelmed with anticipation, fans lined up for two years trying to buy more of this West Coast speed metal as phenomenal as anything released by EXODUS, DEATH ANGEL, METALLICA, and ANTHRAX. The long wait ended with the release of 1989's self-titled debut, and fans were not disappointed. Having enlisted the production skills of famed mainstream metal producer Bill Metoyer (FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, TROUBLE, FATES WARNING, DRI, SLAYER) the debut exuded all the pure destructive power for which fans could have hoped. Every note is executed with jaw-dropping levels of scientific precision. Jimmy's vocals are both powerful and soaring. The Retroactive reissue, scheduled for release on November 11, 2008, is re-mastered and includes both tracks from the California Metal compilation as bonus tracks
Deliverance track listing: “Victory”, “No Time”, “Deliverance”, “If You Will”, “The Call”, “No Love”, “Blood Of The Covenant”, “Jehovah Jireh”, “Temporary Insanity”, “Awake”, “A Space Called You” (bonus track ), “Attack” (bonus track)
DELIVERANCE - Weapons Of Our Warfare:
Press Release / Only a year after the band released the historic self-titled debut, DELIVERANCE released their 1990 tour de force, Weapons of Our Warfare. METALLICA created Master of Puppets, SLAYER bludgeoned the world with the classic Reign In Blood, FLOTSAM & JETSAM had Doomsday..., and EXODUS boasted Bonded By Blood - all albums that would create the standard for all other speed metal releases. Weapons of Our Warfare was that album for DELIVERANCE. It cemented the band's place as legitimate speed metal royalty. To this very day, Weapons is still mentioned with hushed reverence among Christian metalheads as one of the elite speed metal albums of all time.
Guitarist Glenn Rogers (HIRAX) had exited the band and former RECON guitarist George Ochoa had joined in his place. Weapons of our Warfare turned out to be one monster of a record, a genuine speed metal classic. Each and every song is played with a feverish fury, and once again the song writing is outstanding. George Ochoa's highly technical rhythm guitar style drives most of the album, setting new standards of power, precision, and stamina. The band is just as dexterous, playing with tightly controlled fury even at the most ridiculously fast tempos. The album shows marked musical growth with several adrenaline-driven, extended, multi-sectioned compositions foreshadowing the band's later progressive epics. And the trade-off guitar leads by Brown and Ochoa provide first rate riffage that will satisfy even the most skilled guitar hero addict.
A video version of the title track became the first Christian metal song to gain airplay on MTV, and it placed among the top three on that network's Headbanger's Ball countdown for twelve weeks in a row! In 1999, Lars Ulrich (METALLICA) hosted a show in which he named DELIVERANCE "Weapons..." as one of his top ten favorite metal videos of all time. Weapons... is a classic album, and with a complete Digital Remastering, enhanced new artwork inspired by the original artwork, and one bonus track, this 2008 reissue - schedule for release on November, 2008 - is sure to delight all fans of Believer, SLAYER, EXODUS, METALLICA, TOURNIQUET, and ANTHRAX.
Weapons Of Our Warfare track listing: “Supplication”, “This Present Darkness”, “Weapons Of Our Warfare”, “This Present Darkness”, “Flesh And Blood”, “Bought By Blood”, “23”, “Slay The Wicked”, “Greetings Of Death”, “If We Faint Not”, “Rescue” (bonus track from Decade Of Deliverance)
Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html
DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks
FAITH FACTOR - Against A Darkened Sky details revealed:
Press Release / Until 2006, Ski was known as the massive talent fronting the cult classic heavy metal band, DEADLY BLESSING (1988 Ascend From the Cauldron on New Renaissance Records & An Eye To the Past on Hellion Records). Now, afforded a second bite at the apple, with divine guidance, Ski makes a return with FAITH FACTOR on Retroactive Records.
FAITH FACTOR combines high end, melodic based vocals with a twin guitar attack to create a work that can best be described as galloping riffs of pure classic, technical power metal. Former DEADLY BLESSING vocalist Ski fronts the group bringing a commanding, operatic elite vocal presence. Ski displays a near unlimited range when he cuts loose and goes for a high note (think Lance King, Geoff Tate, Midnight, John Arch, Dio, Bruce Dickinson). Metal To Infinity webzine calls Ski "...one of the best vocalists walking the planet..." And Magic Star Light zine says, "those familiar with Ski's vocals won't even bother reading the rest of this review before going to buy the album!"
Against... is a rarity in the metal world. It's a dark and weighty slab of classic traditional heavy metal, technical and progressive as reflected in the numerous time changes and the band's frequent excursion into instrumental territory. Yet, the listener is drawn in by insanely catchy hooks at every turn. Fans of RECON, IRON MAIDEN, CRIMSON GLORY, ICED EARTH, ROB ROCK, FORBIDDEN, and QUEENSRYCHE have every reason to raise their metal fists high into the air. Epic, traditional, heavy metal is alive and well on Against A Darkened Sky!
Against A Darkened Sky track listing:
1. “Evila Si Eh”
2. “Keep It True”
3. “The Rapture”
4. "In God's Shadow”
5. “In Remembrance”
6. “Light Replaces Darkness”
7. “Armor Of God”
8. “Divine Temptation”
9 “Ascend Unto Heaven”
10. “Sinner's Prayer”
Against A Darkened Sky is going to be released on November 11, 2008 via Retroactive Records. The album was mixed at Cync Studio's in Deptford, New Jersey. The CD layout was designed by Christian artist Rob Rock's (IMPELLITTERI, DRIVER, JOSHUA) wife Liza with a 10-page booklet.
FAITH FACTOR will be performing at the Keep It True XI festival, set to take place November 15, 2008 at Soundpark-Ost (ex-Rockpalast) in Würzburg, Germany.
Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html
Ulterium Records to re-issue HARMONY debut Dreaming Awake:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY will have their full length debut Dreaming Awake re-issued by Ulterium Records this fall. Dreaming Awake was originally released by Massacre Records in 2003 and received fantastic response around the world. The album has been out of print and hard to find in recent years.
Dreaming Awake will be re-released on October 31, 2008, the same day Ulterium will be releasing the bands sophomore effort Chapter II: Aftermath in Europe.
Dreaming Awake track listing:
1. "Into The Afterlife"
2. "Eternity"
3. "Dreaming Awake"
4. "Fragile"
5. "Without You"
6. "The Fall"
7. "Fall Of Man"
8. "When Shadows Fall"
9. "Maze Of The Past"
10. "She"
11. "Remember"
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden
NEWS BRIEFS
* Detonation is a fanzine focusing on the UK Christian hard music scene: www.detonation.meltdownmusic.co.uk
* Update from CHRISTIAN LILJEGREN: “I have joined forces with my brother Simeon Liljegren for the next AUDIOVISION album. We played together for many years in BORDERLINE & MODEST ATTRACTION. I am really excited for this and looking forward to play live and record new material. It will be melodic 70´s & 80´s hard rock & metal with symphonic touch with lots of harmony vocals like THE SWEET & QUEEN. I am working on my second solo album in Swedish called Christian Liljegren - Levande (Alive) together with my close friend and keyboard player Olov Andersson. The album will be released during 2009 and concerts are planned to promote the album. I will also be doing vocals together with Thomas Vikstrom on the new 7 DAYS album by Markus Sigfridsson. The album is planned to be out during 2009."
FEATURED REVIEWS
D.O.G.S. OF PRAY - The Rise…
When it comes to the classic definition of gothic influenced metal and hard rock, Nashville, Tennessee based D.O.G.S. Of Pray fits the bill. A group that can trace its origin to a joining of lead vocalist Henley and guitarists Eddie Folk and Tom Meadows, D.O.G.S. Of Pray solidified its line up upon recruiting co-lead vocalist Bobbi Folk, bassist Doug Zirk and drummer Eric Walter. Read Full Review >>
TED LEONARD - Way Home
What we have in Way Home is a joining of acoustic rock and hard rock with the occasional progressive overtone. Much of the material here is mid-paced while making us of the acoustic guitar; that said, the album never turns into a trite listen, which is testament to Ted’s ingenious ability to compose a song with a subtle but catchy melody. Read Full Review >>
DARRELL MANSFIELD - Revelation
An evangelist by calling, Mansfield cannot think of any better way to share the Gospel than rock and roll, his motto being to “become all things to all people that you might win some”. Hence, Mansfield, who considers himself a “fisher of men”, proceeded to record the heaviest album of his career in Revelation (1985) because, in his words, “the fish started biting hard rock”. Read Full Review >>
NEAL MORSE - Lifeline
Musically, Lifeline delivers a tasteful element of variety. Neal’s trademark progressiveness – and the creativity and inspiration that goes along with it - is best found on the thirteen minute epic “Lifeline” and twenty-eight minute mega-epic “So Many Roads”. Read Full Review >>
REINXEED - The Light
The Light, the full length summer of 2008 CMS/Rivel Records debut of ReinXeed, can best be described as melodic power metal with the occasional epic or symphonic tendency. Fans of Royal Hunt, Avantasia and Sonata Arctica will find a lot to like here as will those into Theocracy, Narnia, Essence Of Sorrow and Majestic Vanguard. Read Full Review >>
SCELERATA - Darkness And Light
A five piece unit that debuted on Nightmare Records in 2007 with the full length offering Darkness And Light, Scelerata plays an up-tempo form of power metal with the occasional symphonic or progressive tendency. Fans of the previously referenced artists will be sure to embrace Scelerata as will those into Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, Helloween, Sacred Warrior, Recon, Barren Cross, Septer and Theocracy. Read Full Review >>
SORROWS JOY - Fallow Round
I might describe Fallow Ground as a mixture of classic and true metal with the occasional touch of the progressive or doom-like. What stands out most about the project is the technical prowess of the artist’s songwriting skills in that much of the material here is not your typical “verse-chorus-verse” variety. Read Full Review >>
STONEFUZE - Stonefuze
Stonefuze, by far the groups heaviest and most intense effort to date, delivers a straightforward and no-frills hard rock sound certain to appeal to fans of F.OG., Spittin Jonah, Resurrection Band, Heartcry and Jesus Joshua 24:15. The albums first three songs - the energetic “Alive”, heavy duty “Apocalyptic” and aptly entitled “Fire And Flames” – prove without a doubt Stonefuze can compose a song with a solid chorus hook. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
LEGACY demo material set for 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 Scorpions 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.
Gaining momentum, Legacy opened for several Christian rock legends, including REZ, Shout, Sacred Warrior, Mylon Lefevre & Broken Heart, and Allies. In fact, one of the band’s favorite memories involves opening for Mylon Lefevre and REZ at the Ohio Center in downtown Columbus on New Year’s Eve ‘88. As Legacy rocked out a 20-minute set, a mob rushed the stage and began pummeling their approval in an impromptu mosh pit. Legacy ripped through five songs like a pack of righteously rogue soldiers, feeding off the frenzy in front of them, and exited the stage totally fired up. Only later did they learn that Lefevre had been watching in the wings and told his road manager, “The crowd seems to really like these boys. Why don’t we let them do another song?” Too bad that Legacy, too stoked to sit still, had already left!
Of course, every band has their amusing road stories and Legacy is no exception. En route to a show in Illinois, John engaged in his usual quirk of practicing “air drums” on the steering wheel while listening to some tunes, only this time he was practicing with a pen. Like a scene in some slapstick comedy, the tip went flying off, unbeknownst to John, who didn’t realize what had happened until he had “air drummed” ink all over the roof of the truck, himself, and pretty much everything else in the cabin in one big, black, splatterific mess.
But all was not light and laughter. Back in the 80’s, Christian metal was considered controversial, labeled as blasphemous by conservative believers who lambasted bands for wedding what they deemed “the devil’s music” to the holy gospel. Protesters repeatedly rallied at their shows, spewing their judgmental bullets. But Legacy simply ignored the laments of the extremists and marched on with their mission to rock for the Rock and sound a call to arms to all those metal-loving believers striving to stay strong in a cold, dark, dying world.
Legacy’s star seemed to be on a meteoric rise. They garnered praise wherever they went. They were featured in CCM Magazine and Heaven’s Metal Magazine. They placed the tracks “Cross The Line” and “What A World” on the Heavy Righteous Metal: Chapter II and Brave New Music compilations, respectively. They were on the brink of being signed by a major Christian label. But then it all unraveled. Matt left the band to pursue alternate ministries; Fred departed soon after. Within a year, the band experienced a string of personnel pains, and before a new incarnation could be solidified, grunge steam-rolled onto the scene The members of Legacy remain eternally grateful to God for granting them the opportunity to serve and worship Him through the medium of metal. The band may someday squeeze a small reunion into their busy schedules and possibly even crank out some new music, but regardless of what the future holds for Legacy, their heritage in the Christian metal realm is one they can be proud.
They appeared on compilations from Pure Metal (“Cross The Line”) and Star Song Records (“What A World”). They were on the brink of being signed by a major Christian label. But then it all unraveled. Matt left the band to pursue alternate ministries; Fred departed soon after. Within a year, the band experienced a string of personnel pains, and before a new incarnation could be solidified, grunge steam-rolled onto the scene and the radical shift in the musical winds shattered any chance Legacy might have had at wider success. By the spring of ‘92, Doug and John remained the only original members and during a telephone conversation, both agreed Legacy was no more. They had answered the call, danced with destiny, and now it was time to move on.
The members of Legacy remain eternally grateful to God for granting them the opportunity to serve and worship Him through the medium of metal. The band may someday squeeze a small reunion into their busy schedules and possibly even crank out some new music, but regardless of what the future holds for Legacy, their heritage in the Christian metal realm is one they can be proud.
Legacy track listing: “Salvation Is Law”, “It’s Real”, “Cross The Line”, “Forever In Your Arms”, “Don’t Run Away”, “Red, White, And Blue”, “Change Of A Broken Heart”, “Comin’ Home”, “Soldiers Unite”, “One Way Or The Other”, “Live It”, “What A World”, “Model Citizen”, “Vision Of Perfection”
Eonian Records online: http://eonianrecords.com
VENIA studio report:
"Everybody has been so busy this month that it has just passed by without anything happening considering the album. Now we are gearing up to finally put all the missing pieces together with the mixing, artwork and booklet and I'm getting cautiously optimistic that we'll finally get this album done. Let's hope I'm right.
"After another long break the final mixing has started nicely. I'd say roughly half of the songs are completely mixed. We're really close now!
"I also just got to see the cover art. It's looking quite promising. It will be a continuation to the In Our Weakness art although painted by a different artist since my wife didn't have time to paint it this time. I think it's similar and different at the same time, which is sort of what we wanted. Hopefully people will be able to see the connection."
VENIA, which is the Latin translation for forgiveness, formed in 2004 prior to putting out its first demo entitled Genesis. The group later signed to Bombworks Records for the thrash influenced power metal of its five-song debut EP, In Our Weakness.
VENIA online: http://veniaband.com
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
HARMONY - Chapter II: Aftermath North American release date announced:
Press Release / Ulterium Records (Sweden) and Nightmare Records (U.S.) have inked a deal for the North American release of the new HARMONY album Chapter II: Aftermath. The album will be released in Europe October 31st and in North America November 25th.
The album was mixed by Pelle Saether (A.C.T, DARKWATER) in Studio Underground, and mastered by Göran Finnberg (IN FLAMES, THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILITY) at The Mastering Room. Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON, HEED) is doing guest vocals on the track “Inner peace” and Kristoffer Gildenlöw (DIAL, ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) handles the bass during the entire album.
Chapter II: Aftermath track listing:
1. “Prevail”
2. “Aftermath”
3. “Rain”
4. “Don’t Turn Away”
5. “Kingdom”
6. “Silently We Fade”
7. “Inner Peace”
8. “Weak”
9. “I Run”
10. “Hollow Faces”
11. “End Of My Road”
Ulterium Records & Nightmare Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html & www.nightmarerecords.com
HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden
THEOCRACY - Mirror Of Souls to receive North American release:
Press Release / Ulterium Records (Sweden) and Nightmare Records (U.S.) have inked a deal for the North American release of the new THEOCRACY album Mirror of Souls. The album will be released in Japan November 25th, and in North American December 9th. The Japanese version will contain the bonus track “Wages Of Sin”.
Mirror Of Souls was produced and mixed by Matt Smith and mastered by Mika Jussila (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS, CHILDREN OF BODOM). The cover was designed by Robert Wilson and the booklet designed by Felipe Machado Franco (ICED EARTH, AYREON, AT VANCE).
Mirror Of Souls track listing:
1. “A Tower Of Ashes” (4:44)
2. “On Eagles’ Wings” (4:11)
3. “Laying The Demon To Rest” (9:37)
4. “Bethlehem” (5:51)
5. “Absolution Day” (6:46)
6. “The Writing In The Sand” (6:43)
7. “Martyr” (7:39)
8. “Mirror Of Souls” (22:26)
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband
NEWS BRIEFS
* Kerry Livgren to put out a re-recorded version of the final AD album, Prime Mover: “As was done with Collector's Sedition (the Director's Cut), Prime Mover (Redux) will not be just a re-issue, it is a (nearly) complete re-recording of the album. Warren Ham's vocals are still featured, but in every other aspect it will be a new rendering of the music with new performances and additional artists. Watch for a release announcement.”
* MAD MAX new album update: “It's time to celebrate 25 years of MAD MAX with a brand new album, Here We Are, coming your way on October 1, 2008 (on A-Minor Records)! We will provide you with all the details in the next few days! First, we (will) have the video clip for the first single and title track called "Here We Are" online later next week! So enjoy the video and (send) it to all your friends!"
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
SACRED WARRIOR reunites to record new album:
Press Release / Reactivated '80s Christian metal legends SACRED WARRIOR are currently working on material for a new studio album, tentatively due in early 2009. According to singer Rey Parra, the upcoming album "will be one of our heaviest discs yet. It is hard yet still has the SACRED WARRIOR feel to it and don't be thinking that we are going to wimp out on the lyrics. We think that today more that ever we need to bring the gospel of Jesus to the forefront. We are currently recording the music in Chicago and I will be recording the vocals in Florida. This long-awaited disc will be finished sometime towards the end of the year, Lord willing, so please be patient and be prayerful so that all goes well."
SACRED WARRIOR is a Christian band which played melodic, progressive hard rock/metal, often quite reminiscent of mid-period QUEENSRŸCHE, a label that SACRED WARRIOR considered a compliment. SACRED WARRIOR broke up in 1994 and then reformed at least temporarily in 2000 to do a Cornerstone festival reunion show. There was talk of a new album sometime in the future, but nothing ever became of it.
SACRED WARRIOR can trace its history to a mid-eighties Chicago area mainstream group named NOMAD that included vocalist Rey Parra, guitarist Bruce Swift and drummer Tony Velazquez. Swift was the first of the three to become a Christian and played an influential role in Parra and Velazquez making decisions for Christ. After forming a new band to make music reflective of their faith, the three met bassist Steve Watkins at a Bible study and recruited keyboardist Rick Macias during a jam session shortly thereafter.
The group upon the name SACRED WARRIOR because it reflects not only that their commitment to Christ is sacred, but that as warriors they need to put on the armor of God and prepare themselves for battle on a daily basis.
SACRED WARRIOR signed with Intense Records on December 10, 1987 and recorded four albums with the label: Rebellion (1988), Master’s Command (1989) Wicked Generation (1990) and Obsessions (1991).
SACRED WARRIOR online: www.sacredwarrior.net & www.facebook.com/pages/Sacred-Warrior
THEOCRACY - Mirror Of Souls details revealed:
Press Release / The new THEOCRACY album, Mirror Of Souls, will be released in Europe via Ulterium Records on November 21st and in Japan on November 25th by Soundholic Records. The Japan version will contain the bonus track “Wages Of Sin”. A North American release date is forthcoming.
Mirror Of Souls track listing:
1. “A Tower Of Ashes” (4:44)
2. “On Eagles’ Wings” (4:11)
3. “Laying The Demon To Rest” (9:37)
4. “Bethlehem” (5:51)
5. “Absolution Day” (6:46)
6. “The Writing In The Sand” (6:43)
7. “Martyr” (7:39)
8. “Mirror Of Souls” (22:26)
Mirror Of Souls was produced and mixed by Matt Smith and mastered by Mika Jussila (NIGHTWISH, STRATOVARIUS, CHILDREN OF BODOM) and the booklet design was created by Felipe Machado Franco (ICED EARTH, AYREON, AT VANCE).
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband
NEWS BRIEFS
* ORATORIO recruits new bass player: “We have found the suitable bass player for ORATORIO, Lauri Joutsiniemi from Jokela, Finland. As some of you may know, Lauri is one of the founders of ORATORIO and he also played on O's first demos and in the first full-length album, Reality Of Existence. After ROE, he left the band but now he is back. God has done many wonderful things in Lauri's life, and I think that maybe in some point we all can hear his testimony.”
* Cross Rhythms is home to an insightful article about the V-RATS: www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/VRats
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
D.O.G.S. OF PRAY - Theatrical Gothic metal from Nashville:
Press Release / With a decadent flavoring of heaviness, seasoned with gothic tones, and topped with a dark theatric presentation, this juggernaut of chaotic beauty seems to be fueled by something otherworldly. D.O.G.S. OF PRAY, originally the brainchild of Henley, Eddie Folk (after relocating from Los Angeles) and Tom Meadows (in Virginia), was reformed in 2006 adding Bobbi Folk, Doug Zirk and Eric Walter to their permanent lineup. Fronting vocalists, Henley (male) and Bobbi Folk (female), call out in siren enchantments and haunting verses, as they vocally duel and melt in the many masterful songs. Bassist Doug Zirk gives a deep march of war crunch to the cement cracking heavy riffs thundered out by guitarists Tom Meadows and Eddie Folk. Drummer Eric Walter hammers machine like beats of orchestrated complexity to tie everything together. Some of the songs have the additional gifts of keyboards and an industrial bell.
Like the anticipation of a lightning strike, or the smell of rain, some experiences just cannot be put into words. They are too powerful and overwhelming to be justified in speech or text. Only those who have felt the intensity of these moments could understand what they really are. Such is D.O.G.S. OF PRAY. Once they begin their plotted notes of musical theatrics, something happens that must be felt, must be lived through, and must be remembered to be understood.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of D.O.G.S. OF PRAY is that they are entirely made up of Christians, who come with a message of faith, hope and love. Far from your grandmother’s Christianity of clean cut brow beating self righteousness, they seek to influence and entertain the world with deep, dark, gothic melodies and meaningful poetic lyrics.
D.O.G.S. OF PRAY released their single, "Catastrophic", to radio nationwide on Tuesday, July 29th. The song is featured on their debut CD, The Rise…, which is available for purchase on iTunes.
The Rise... track listing:
1. “My Conviction”
2. “Catastrophic”
3. “Trinity”
4. “The Enemy”
5. “Theatre”
6. “The Day”
7. “Pirates Of The Galilean”
8. “How”
9. “Final Days”
10. “Righteous Awakens”
11. “Omission”
12. “Alone In The Darkness”
HARMONY Chapter II: Aftermath details revealed:
Press Release / The new HARMONY album Chapter II: Aftermath will be released in Europe on October 31, 2008 via Ulterium Records. Release dates for North America and Japan will be announced within the coming weeks.
Chapter II: Aftermath track listing:
1. “Prevail”
2. “Aftermath”
3. “Rain”
4. “Don’t Turn Away”
5. “Kingdom”
6. “Silently We Fade”
7. “Inner Peace”
8. “Weak”
9. “I Run”
10. “Hollow Faces”
11. “End Of My Road”
The album was mixed by Pelle Saether (A.C.T, DARKWATER) in Studio Underground, and mastered by Göran Finnberg (IN FLAMES, THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILITY) at The Mastering Room. Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON, HEED) is doing guest vocals on the track “Inner peace” and Kristoffer Gildenlöw (DIAL, ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) handles the bass during the entire album.
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden
NEAL MORSE - New progressive rock album, Lifeline:
Press Release / Hot on the heels of his breakthrough concert DVD, Sola Scriptura & Beyond (which sold out before its release date), Morse unleashes another progressive rock masterpiece with Lifeline.
Following SPOCK’S BEARD Snow album, Neal crafted some of the most acclaimed concept albums in the annals of progressive rock. His rich sonic landscapes capture the imagination—musically, lyrically, and often spiritually. When Neal began writing his next opus, though, he took a fresh approach and let his songs stand on there own.
Lifeline is a collection of songs exploring a variety of topics in musical styles ranging from the classic sound of early SPOCK’S BEARD to the fiery intensity of Sola Scriptura. For the first time in his solo career, most of his album’s songs span five minutes. (Then again, this is a Neal Morse album. So yeah, you’re also in for a 30 minute prog tour de force.) Overall, Lifeline is a breathtaking leap into uncharted musical territory, and a triumphant return to the eclectic sound of his early work with SPOCK’S BEARD and TRANSATLANTIC.
The album opens with the title track, “Lifeline”, a song that might have overslept the SPOCK’S BEARD V sessions. Neal honors the desperation he experienced for most of his life, and celebrates his eventual escape. Morse explores this previous life more intimately in the beautifully tragic “Can’t Find My Way”. (If the title sounds like a TRANSATLANTIC song, then you’re already prepared.)
“Leviathan”, the third track, expresses Neal’s lighter side. Humor is not usually associated with prog…then again, neither are metal guitars answered by funk horns, and sneezing sea monsters. Perhaps ironically, this is also probably the heaviest track of Neal’s career.
Neal explores spirituality, love, and hope on the next two songs. The most recognizable for Morse and Beard fans will be the second, “Children of the Chosen”. Its anthemic, harmony-laden choruses evoke Snow’s “Wind at My Back”. Together, both songs are among Neal’s most engaging.
“Many Roads” is Lifeline’s inevitable, majestic epic. Chronicling Neal’s life, musically and biographically, the song traverses the many musical paths leading to the establishment of one of rock’s distinctive voices. Prepare for a surprisingly candid account of Neal’s early experiences, and his motivation to seek a new life.
Bringing Lifeline full circle is the closing track, “Fly High”. Neal sings of returning to the beginning… before there were so many questions, so many roads. We return to where we were as children—safe in the eye of a raging storm. Looking skyward, we see a path leading out. We reach upward, higher than we ever could, and grab hold…
Lifeline track listing:
1. “Lifeline”
2. “The Way Home”
3. “Leviathan”
4. “God’s Love”
5. “Children Of The Chosen”
6. “So Many Roads”
7. “Fly High”
Neal Morse online: www.nealmorse.com & www.facebook.com/nealmorse
NEWS BRIEFS
* Drummer Jani Stefanovic goes into detail about the new DIVINEFIRE album, Farewell, in a recent interview at Lords Of Metal: www.lordsofmetal.nl/showinterview.php?id=2196&lang=en
* Lords Of Metal is also home to an interview with Tommy Johansson of REINXEED: www.lordsofmetal.nl/showinterview.php?id=2200&lang=en
* NARNIA announces new vocalist, Germán Pascual: “We are happy to announce that the new NARNIA lineup is now complete! The singer who will join us on our way into the second chapter of NARNIA is Germán Pascual! Germán truly shares our vision and has shown us that he can handle old NARNIA songs with finesse, but most importantly that he fits perfectly with the material of our coming album. Germán grew up in Rio de Janeiro/Brazil, but moved to Sweden in his teens. You may have seen and heard him with various bands and artists, such as MINDS EYE and MENDEZ, to name a few.”
FEATURED REVIEWS
DIVINEFIRE - Farewell
Divinefire is renowned for combining elements of the melodic and the extreme and Farewell proves no exception. If anything, the album places added emphasis on both with the end result being one of the groups most well rounded efforts to date. Read Full Review >>
FAITH - Blessed?
Blessed? continues to find Faith heading in doom metal territory. But it is not just doom you will find here in that the group mixes its “gloomy” sound with elements of the epic, symphonic and progressive- all the while backed by occasional touches of traditional folk music. Yes, an eclectic (and creative) mix but it works. Read Full Review >>
HIS WITNESS - Kingdom Come
Musically, Kingdom Come is like opening a “time vault” from another era. Delivering a blend of melodic metal and hard rock heavily rooted in the decade it came out of, His Witness is certain to appeal to fans of Bloodgood, Whitecross, Barren Cross, Stryper and Holy Soldier. Read Full Review >>
LETTER 7 - Follow The Light
Letter 7 got started in early 2007 by releasing its critically acclaimed debut Salt Of The Earth. The summer of 2008 finds the group presenting with its sophomore effort Follow The Light, another high quality work also charting the waters of melodic metal and hard rock territory. Read Full Review >>
MISSION OF ONE - Mission Of One
Initially getting started while under the moniker Missionary One, Chris recorded the straightforward hard rock of his full length debut Take Another Swig in 2004 before renaming the project Mission Of One and following up a year later with another hard rocking effort in Show Me The Way. Mission Of One, the summer of 2008 self-titled third release from the artist, picks up where Take Another Swig and Show Me The Way leave off by taking a foundation of hard rock and joining it with elements of guitar driven classic rock and heavy blues rock. Read Full Review >>
JEFF SCHEETZ BAND - Behind The Mask
On Behind The Mask Jeff Scheetz Band stays true to its form by delivering a blend of blues, classic rock and hard rock intermixed with occasional funk and “jam band” flavorings. Fans of Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan will find a lot to like here as will those into Glenn Kaiser Band, Rez Band, Die Happy and Red Sea. Read Full Review >>
VARIOUS ARTISTS - CPR Volume 3
Finally, CPR Volume 3, the most recent in the series, was released in 2008 and, similar to its predecessors, does an excellent job supporting the two fold CPR purpose of expanding knowledge of progressive rock into the Christian community and to increase Christian themes with the progressive rock community. Read Full Review >>
V-RATS - Intelligent Design
The album finds the group showcasing a blend of hard rock and metal backed by some heavy groove, funk and blues based moments. Fans of early nineties Bride, Love War, Die Happy and Red Sea will find a lot to like here as will those into Resurrection Band, Gethsemane Rose, F.O.G. and Heartcry. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
HIS WITNESS - Kingdom Come re-issue on Retroactive Records:
Press Release / We are glad to announce that Retroactive Record's most recent release is now in stock as of August 5, 2008! The long awaited CD release by California-based... HIS WITNESS, Kingdom Come.
This album sat "in the can" and unreleased since it was recorded in 1988. Only a handful of cassettes were sold to fans at an occasional concert. Bill Menchen (TITANIC, THE SEVENTH POWER, FINAL AXE) and vocalist Ken Redding had been friends since their days in the OMEGA BAND. Bill took it upon himself to remix the album and start the resurrection process. The original 2 inch tapes were discovered years before when the guys had been cleaning out a garage. If it hadn't been for Ken's brother-in-law taking them home, this metal gem would have been thrown away and lost forever!
The album was recorded by the legendary Randy Thomas (ALLIES, SWEET COMFORT BAND, etc.), and mixed at John and Dino Elephante's (KANSAS, MASTEDON) Pakaderm Studio by Mike Mierau (X-SINNER). From day one, the album was surrounded by greatness, and Retroactive Records is proud to make this heavy metal gem available world-wide for the first time ever!
The deep, rich vocals of Ken Redding show an obvious DIO influence, but the music will also appeal to fans of melodic metal in the vein of BARREN CROSS, BLOODGOOD, JUDAS PRIEST and WHITECROSS.
Kingdom Come track listing:
1. “Everlasting Life”
2. “Kingdom Come”
3. “Last Days”
4. “Jesus Heals”
5. “Call On Him”
6. “Guard Your Heart”
7. “Pick Up Your Cross”
8. “Jesus Died For You”
9. “Love Of God”
10. “Party’s In Heaven”
Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html
ORPHAN PROJECT signs with Open Grave Records:
Press Release / Open Grave Records is proud to announce the addition of Abingdon, Maryland's ORPHAN PROJECT to it's roster. ORPHAN PROJECT was started in 2001, when vocalist Shane Lankford, collaborating with composer John Wenger, conceived the groundwork for a concept album based on spiritual and physical adoption with progressive, hard rock, and contemporary influences.
With a full length album and an EP under their belt, and in addition, Lankford being a veteran of progressive local bands in his hometown such as VISUAL CLIFF, and FALL OF ECHOES , the band felt they were ready to strengthen their influence within the Christian scene, as well as build more of a following in the secular market, and mainstream. Lankford states, "We felt this was an excellent opportunity to get our material exposed to a bigger audience. And being with an indie label such as Open Grave allows us to do exactly that, while still retaining that personal relationship that bigger labels can't give you."
This addition also takes place on the heels of a change in the style of artists signed by the label. Open Grave Records CEO James Mattern was quoted as saying "We feel that ORPHAN PROJECT, as a band, has a little something for everyone. Rock fans, progressive fans, even adult contemporary fans will be able to appreciate this music. It's a great addition in support of our recent diversification efforts. I'm very excited about this release." ORPHAN PROJECT is planning to release new material in March of 2009.
ORPHAN PROJECT online: www.facebook.com/OrphanProject
Dale Burton to reorganize TYKKÜS:
As posted by the Phoenix based guitarist at the Christian Metal Realm:
“After about a year of working with LETTER 7, I have decided to step down from the group. The last month has brought about new and exciting changes as God is moving again in the metal music scene for us Christians here in the greater Phoenix area. Know that Jeff Evans and I are still very good friends and he has helped me be a better guitarist while sharing the axe with him. Please continue to keep LETTER 7 in your prayers as I pray and wish them great success in the future.
"TYKKÜS is being dusted off after about a year of being out of circulation. The good Lord has been opening some doors and much to our surprise... here we are. It's not the same line up from 2007 as we are still making adjustments and knocking off the rust. What we have heard as we have played is exciting. We're still holding on to that 80's metal vibe ala HAMMERFALL, JUDAS PRIEST or DOKKEN."
Please note that replacing Dale in LETTER 7 is Sebastian Luciano, who has previously worked with Lita Ford.
Tykküs online: www.facebook.com/tykkus
NEWS BRIEFS
* Legend III:II update from the SAVIOUR MACHINE forum: “III:II is very far along... the bottom line is, Eric (Clayton) is just too sick to work on it, it literally makes him ill. Other projects and things he does is ok, it's just working on III:II - it takes way too much out of him. He's just taking it easy and waiting for the right time to finish it. I can't expect anyone to understand it fully, but I have seen what it does to him and what it's done to him so that is why I can fully support him and it's also why I defend him. I'm not over exaggerating here at all... III:II is seriously capable of killing the man. There are people who have given up on SM, there are a lot of rumors about this or that, but just know that Eric hasn't given up on the fans or on III:II. He just needs time to do it right and do it in a way that he doesn't harm himself or his family in the process."
* Southern California based glam metal outfit SPECTRA uploaded its late eighties two-song demo to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/christianglam
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Full length debut from DRIVER, Sons Of Thunder:
Press Release / Reunited '80s melodic heavy rock band DRIVER - featuring powerhouse vocalist Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI, JOSHUA, WARRIOR, AVANTASIA, AXEL RUDI PELL) and acclaimed guitarist/producer Roy Z (BRUCE DICKINSON, HALFORD, JUDAS PRIEST, SEBASTIAN BACH, ROB ROCK, TRIBE OF GYPSIES, HELLOWEEN) - will release its debut album, Sons Of Thunder, on September 26 via Metal Heaven.
DRIVER issued a widely circulated five-song cassette EP demo in 1990 that garnered the band a dedicated worldwide following as well as attained cult status as one of the most underrated hard rock acts of its time. Since then, Rock and Roy Z have forged ahead to garner long successful careers in the music business. 2008 saw the reunion of the band which resulted in the recordings of the aforementioned CD.
DRIVER line-up:
Rob Rock - Lead Vocals
Roy Z - Guitars
Reynold "Butch" Carlson - Drums
Ed Roth - Keyboards
Aaron Samson - Bass
Sons Of Thunder track listing:
1. “Titans of Speed”
2. “I'm A Warrior”
3. “Fly Away”
4. “Heart's On Fire”
5. “Sons Of Thunder”
6. “Never Give Up”
7. “Change Of Heart”
8. “Dark World”
9. “Winds Of March”
10. “Only Love Can Save Me Now”
11. “Tears That I Cry”
12. “I Believe in Love”
DRIVER online: http://driverofficial.com
Former FOREIGNER frontman LOU GRAMM to release Christian album:
Press Release / Gramm, who has been a born again Christian since the early '90s, tells Billboard.com that the as-yet-untitled album "rocks from one end to the next -- that kind of attitude but with a different subject matter." He recorded it in his hometown of Rochester, N.Y., with his band, which includes brothers Ben and Richard and Don Mancuso from his pre-FOREIGNER band, BLACK SHEEP. The album will be released by Spectra Records.
Gramm, who left FOREIGNER for a second time in 2003, says that his recovery from a benign brain tumor in the late '90s gave him the impetus for many of the album's faith-based songs. "It's about how you can be so out of line with the way God would have you be and maybe have a major incident in your life kind of wake you up," he explains. "I had my priorities not in order and I just think I'm looking at life in general a little bit differently."
Gramm and his band will be touring this summer but don't plan on playing any of the new material until the album is released. So many of the FOREIGNER hits, he says, "don't work for me, but I will perform any and all of them for the time being.
"I can look back on (his previous music) with a lot of pride, and I can see how my path has led me to where I am now. But I am much more in charge of where this band goes and what the music is than I ever had a chance to be in FOREIGNER. So for better or for worse, it's my direction."
Lou Gramm online: www.lou-gramm.com & www.facebook.com/lou.gramm
NEWS BRIEFS
* New Jersey power metal outfit FAITH FACTOR signed with Retroactive Records for a five-year record deal. Expect the groups full length debut, Against A Darkened Sky, to be released on November 1, 2008 (if all goes well).
* STRYPER bassist TIM GAINES conducted a recent 50 question “fan interview”: www.timothygaines.com/interviews.htm
FEATURED REVIEWS
BARREN CROSS – Rock For The King
The history of Barren Cross dates back to 1981 when drummer Steve Whitaker and guitarist Ray Parris both answered the same ad placed in a Los Angeles area music paper. After the two recruited vocalist Mike Lee two years later by responding to an ad in the same paper, bassist Jim LaVerde met Lee at church and joined the group the next day during practice. Read Full Review >>
FIRES OF BABYLON – Fires Of Babylon
Fires Of Babylon delivers what is promised in featuring ten tracks of classic US power metal heavily influenced by the eighties. Fans of St. Paul’s previous work with Winters Bane will find a lot to like here as will those into the various projects Rob Rock has participating over the years, including his four solo albums, material with Impellitteri and Warrior’s Code Of Life. Read Full Review >>
HB – Frozen Inside
What we have in HB is female fronted symphonic metal inviting comparison to Nightwish – old and new – and Within Temptation (although Voice Of Glass and perhaps Lacuna Coil deserve mention as well). Frozen Inside finds the group mixing a foundation of metal-laced rhythm guitar with highlighting touches of operatic vocal harmonies, grandiose keyboards and classical instrumentation. Read Full Review >>
JOSHUA PERAHIA – Surrender
What we have in Joshua is eighties influenced melodic metal and hard rock. Fans of Stryper, Holy Soldier, Angelica, Shout, Guardian, Whitecross and Bloodgood will find a lot to like here as will those into more recent acts such as Letter 7, Mad Max, Incrave and Eden’s Way. Read Full Review >>
JOSHUA PERAHIA – Chapter One
One name deserving mention with the very best is Joshua Perahia. Perahia formed the first incarnation of his full time group Joshua after quitting his studies in pre-med at UCLA in the late seventies. The bands 1983 Enigma debut, The Hand Is Quicker Than The Eye, preceded the Jeff Fenholt fronted Polydor release Surrender from 1986. Read Full Review >>
PRODIGAL - Stand
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania based Prodigal describes itself as a “mixture of sounds influenced by seventies and eighties rock bands – from Led Zeppelin to Van Halen – but with a modern Christian contemporary edge”. After giving the groups 2006 full length debut Stand several listens, however, I feel it is necessary to go into a bit more detail. Read Full Review >>
RANDOM EYES - Invisible
The long wait of five years between albums has proved worthwhile in that Invisible showcases some of the finest material from the group to date. Up-tempo tracks “Deep Waters” and “Living For Tomorrow” both stand out with abundant melodies as does the energetic sounds of “Alive” and “New Flow” (plenty of time changes on these two). Read Full Review >>
TEMPLE OF BLOOD - Overlord
What we have in Temple Of Blood is a joining of old school thrash (think Dark Angel, Testament and Forbidden) and melodic speed metal (similar to early Deliverance) backed by classic and true metal sensibilities (in the same vein as Boarders and Symphonic Extremities era Ultimatum). While Prepare For The Judgement Of Mankind proved a capable debut, Overlord takes things to the next level. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
HARMONY to release five song EP, End Of My Road:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY will release their new EP End Of My Road through Ulterium Records on August 11, 2008. The EP will contain three songs from their upcoming album Chapter II: Aftermath (to be released this fall) as well as two exclusive tracks for this release.
End Of My Road track listing:
1. “End Of My Road” (single version)
2. “Prevail”
3. “Alone” (exclusive track)
4. “Enter The Sacred” (exclusive track)
5. “Rain”
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden
SAINT - Crime Scene Earth track by track:
As provided by front man Josh Kramer in regards to the Salem, Oregon based bands most recent album:
1. “Half A Time Measure”: Dee, Jerry Larry, Rich on all bass tracks. Both Rich and I sing the 1st verse together. I sing the pre chorus and Rich joins me on the chorus. Rich and I both sing the 2nd verse. I do the pre-chorus and Rich joins in the chorus. Hitler is giving his schpeel after the train gets rolling. Rich masterfully takes the reins on the bridge and we both sing the chorus. I'm singing all the high stuff. Who is playing the guitar solos? This remains a mystery even to me. Dee and Jerry have mind melted and there is no telling them apart. At least I can’t.
2. “Terror In The Sky”: This little ditty features Mr. Lynch grunting and growling it out as only he can do. I'll grab a guitar or bass live and jump into the string section of the orchestra and deliver supporting grunts and growls when not singing leads. (A most welcome break.)
3. “Everlasting God”: Rich sang the lead on this one. I sang backing vocals on the outro chorus.
4. “Crime scene Earth”: I'm singing the leads on this one with Rich's unmistakable voice joining me on the chorus.
5. ”The Judas In Me”: Rich leads this one with me grunting out the chorus' with him.
6. “Too Many”: Rich solos this one. I'll probably grab the bass on this one and let Rich go nuts with the mic. Something he likes to do every so often.
7. “Invader”: I'm singing all the vocs on this one.
8. ”Bended Knee”: Rich sings the leads on this one as I jump in there on the chorus' backing vocs.
9. “Lost”: Rich handles all of the vocs on this one.
So there you have it. It is a treat to hear Rich singing. I still can't tell who is playing what solo where. One of those little mysteries we get to enjoy.
SAINT online: www.saintsite.com & www.facebook.com/saintband
NEWS BRIEFS
* RESURRECTION BAND box set on the way: “Brace yourself for the definitive RESURRECTION BAND box set coming this summer. This first career-spanning REZ collection includes three CDs with 52 digitally re-mastered songs, an 80-page full-color booklet detailing the history of REZ BAND with scores of photos, and one DVD with over an hour of previously unreleased live concert video footage and special features.”
* STRYPER’s cover of the BOSTON classic “Peace Of Mind” is now available on iTunes for download: “The song, which features a guest appearance by BOSTON guitarist Tom Scholz, will be on the upcoming STRYPER record due out in early '09 and is slated to be the first single. Also, be sure to catch Michael Sweet on tour as a member of BOSTON this summer.”
“Peace Of Mind” can be downloaded at: https://itunes.apple.com/ua/album/peace-mind-feat.-tom-scholz/id282223424
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Ulterium Records signs HARMONY & THEOCRACY:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are very proud to announce the signing of the Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY to the label. Their sophomore album, Chapter II: Aftermath, will be released in the fall of 2008 and will be preceded by the EP End Of My Road. Release dates and track listings will be announced within the coming weeks.
Chapter II: Aftermath is mixed by Pelle Saether (ACT, SKYFIRE) in Studio Underground and mastered by Göran Finnberg (IN FLAMES, THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILITY) at The Mastering Room. Daniel Heiman (HEED, ex. LOST HORIZON) is doing guest vocals on the track “Inner peace” and Kristoffer Gildenlöw (DIAL, ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) handles the bass during the entire album.”
HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden
Press Release / Ulterium Records has signed the Athens, Georgia based melodic power metal band THEOCRACY for the release of their sophomore album Mirror Of Souls. A release date in the fall of 2008 is planned.
“We’re very excited to finally get this album (Mirror Of Souls) out,” says band founder Matt Smith. “Ulterium really understands what we’re about, and they believe in this record. We’re really looking forward to working together.”
Ulterium Records owner Emil Westerdahl shares that excitement, saying, “I’ve been a fan of THEOCRACY since the release of their debut album, and I'm thrilled about this opportunity to work together with them on Mirror of Souls. This album will surely be received very well by both critics and fans, and exciting times are definitely ahead for THEOCRACY!”
The material on Mirror of Souls expands on the epic, melodic Metal style that THEOCRACY introduced on the self-titled debut album, and the addition of drummer Shawn Benson and guitarist Jon Hinds has added a new dimension and energy to the sound.
Mirror of Souls is being mastered by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios, and the cover art was designed by Invisible Creature. Look for a full song to be posted online in the coming weeks, and for the album to be released in early fall 2008!
THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband
MISSION OF ONE completes work on self-titled third album:
As offered by founding member Chris Dickens:
"After two long years, the new MISSION OF ONE album is completely mixed and self-mastered. I've listened to it on multiple players and had several folks listen and give their opinions. As of now, the music is done.
"I am going ahead with a two version release idea. The first version will be available through my webstore (more info later) and on Amazon.com. That disc will have a lot of photos, but no lyrics. However, it will be a full release with both front and back inserts and color printing on the disc face. Since these are being made by CreateSpace, I will have to have no inventory of these on hand, and they are costing nothing out of pocket. Cool, huh?
"The second version will be in a slim line case. It will just have a 4 panel front insert and will have black text on the disc. You will get less packaging, but you WILL get the lyrics with this one. This version will also cost a little less. I'm making these mostly to give out or sell at shows. I'll probably give more away than sell, and that is why I went with the lesser expensive printing for this version. Special thanks goes to Fundy for making/printing the inserts for the disc. He now has all the info in hand.
"MP3s will also soon be available. I will be uploading them to my MySpace page either tomorrow or on Monday through Snocap. I'll also be adding finished versions of a couple of songs on the player. But, by having the MP3s there, you will be able to hear clips of all the songs."
The artist goes into further detail about the musical direction to Mission Of One:
“While I attempted to mix in elements of all types of music I like into this project, this ends up sounding very classic rock. Everything from the guitar sounds to the way the songs are written just screams circa 1978-1984. This is by no means a "metal" record, but it is going to rock! Even the couple of slow songs that were meant to be more P&W style come off as more of a classic rock sound seeing that I threw some guitar leads in there, too.”
Mission Of One is being released in follow up to the groups 2004 debut Take Another Swig and follow up effort from 2005 Show Me The Way.
Mission Of One track listing:
1. “Surrender”
2. “Give In To Him”
3. “Man Overboard”
4. “I Will Worship You”
5. “He's Been Good To Me”
6. “Be Yourself”
7. “Are You Listening?”
8. “The End”
9. “I'd Do It All Again”
10. “I Fall Down”
MISSION OF ONE online: www.missionofone.com & www.facebook.com/missionofone
NEAL MORSE to release live concert 2-DVD set, Sola Scriptura & Beyond:
Press Release / Neal More has accomplished the almost unheard of in commercial music: After 15 years, 22 albums, 3 bands, and 4 concert DVDs, his last two albums (Sola Scriptura and Question) have been received as his best. Now, Morse and his new band bring both albums to the screen, live on 2 DVDS; plus over an hour of other great performances, and 100 minutes of behind-the-scene footage.
Sola Scriptura was one of the most ambitious, controversial, and critically acclaimed progressive rock albums in recent memory. The album finds Morse unflinching in his depiction of corruption in the Church throughout history, and the consequences of humankind’s attempts to elevate itself to God. Lauded equally in Europe and the United States by the mainstream and CCM press, the album adorned numerous “Best of 2007” lists.
Question is a journey on the timeless quest to find the dwelling place of God. Lyrically, Neal creates a compelling story-line that owes as much to C.S. Lewis as Indiana Jones. Neal searches through history, within the nature of men, and across Neal’s own life. The accolades range by genre from mainstream progressive rock (Dutch Prog Rock Pages, Netherlands: “Top 5 Albums of the Year”), to Contemporary Christian (Cross Rhythms, UK: “10 out of 10 stars”), to modern rock (The National Review Online, US: “Album of the Year”), to hardcore metal (Metal Glory, Germany: “10 out of 10 stars”).
All the material from both albums is performed in its entirety, with all the energy, surprises, and unforgettable moments of a great live concert. Sola Scriptura is played straight through; Question is played combining two concerts. In addition, Neal performs a major portion of his acclaimed One album, and portions of his ground-breaking Testimony release.
Neal’s complex structures, rapid-fire parts, and elaborate arrangements need just the right performers to ignite his music. He finds them in five extraordinary, young—and unknown— musicians. With the intensity of a new band with something to prove, they tear through parts recorded by Mike Portnoy, Randy George ,Paul Gilbert, Jordan Rudess, and others. At the center is Neal Morse, a remarkably passionate and engaging performer. Neal brings the album’s story to life with soaring, emotional vocals. Morse is also a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist performing lead guitar and keyboard. After his last concert DVD (2004’s Testimony), England’s Classic Rock Magazine listed Neal in their “100 Greatest Frontmen of Rock” chart.
The show doesn’t end, though, with the fading echoes of the final note. Backstage, in and around cities throughout Europe, the cameras accompany Neal and his band on their journey. Uncensored experiences and candid moments reveal the good, the bad, and the unexpected of life on the road. Being a prog visionary doesn’t help the bus go back 110 miles for forgotten sandwiches, find a drug store at 2AM when those sandwiches turn out to be older than the bus, or ask for directions at 3AM because nobody knows where they are now. Sola Scriptura & Beyond captures two spectacular performances (including one full concert) from two amazing nights. His most recent solo releases are performed with the excitement of his first with Spock’s Beard. Over an hour of additional performances feature favorites from his other two studio prog albums, a Transatlantic interlude, and five songs from Spock’s Beard.
Travel from the last decade of prog to today, and from the backstage to the soundstage. Capturing a thousand timeless moments, Sola Scriptura & Beyond manifests musicians and audience uniting to create an electrifying musical phenomenon. Join Morse and a new generation of prog musicians as they unleash Neal’s very best, as you’ve never seen or heard it—and beyond.
Further reading: www.nealmorse.com/pages/discography.asp?n=solascripturaandbeyond
Neal Morse online: www.nealmorse.com & www.facebook.com/nealmorse
INTERVIEWS
Angelic Warlord interview - Christine Steel of ARSENAL:
I would like to know some biographical information about Arsenal. When did the band form? How did its members meet?
The original band formed in the mid to late 80's. We met in a church we were all attending. The final band members came together through various other means, including advertising. What I mean by that is that I placed ads for certain members and the rest is history (or HIS Story!). Read Full Interview >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BARREN CROSS to record new album:
Lead vocalist Michael Drive (formerly Michael Lee) provides further details:
“First and foremost; I am happy to announce: BARREN CROSS is officially 100% BACK!
"There has been great healing done in the band, and we are being raised up to an entirely new level. We are back in form and are out there performing again! In fact there are 72 great new live BARREN CROSS photos up if you want to see them, located on the BARREN CROSS MySpace page: www.myspace.com/barrencross
"I have a website with some great stuff on it if you want to see it: www.michaeldrive.com Also, BARREN CROSS has a new website that is well under construction (thanks to Greg Hays). It looks great already; check it out: www.barrencross.com/
"Your letters have not gone unnoticed. So now, I am very happy to formerly make this announcement:
"BARREN CROSS is not just “talking” about it, but we have now, as of this last week, officially decided to record a brand new full length album! Inspiration like never before has already begun; we have already started writing for it! As a writer and the lead singer since our inception in 1983, I can feel it already; this is going to be, by far, the best BARREN CROSS album ever put out. I would like to add that the table is now open for any offers from producers and studios who would like to be involved with us. This is going to be greater than anything we have ever done. Contact info is at the bottom of this email.
"And concerning BARREN CROSS, if you want to catch up on 2 of the most popular and influential albums that we have released, Atomic Arena and State Of Control.
"Now, this is where most of you come in: It is very possible that I will be embarking on a 2 month “solo-unplugged” tour of the United States either this fall or winter. Right now is a period of time when the venues have the opportunity to get an “MD” show booked, and following this period, when there are enough venues booked, we will be contacting all of them to schedule the dates. This is where you come in: I’m asking you to contact whoever you know that might be interested in having me perform, whether it’s your church, club, or other.
"In case you don’t know, in the modern rock genre, I have been doing solo albums and performances, both solo-unplugged, OR with a band: mostly in Europe in the recent years, as I was based in Paris, France; but also in the U.S., where I am now based, in Hollywood, CA; the land of my childhood.
"Now, on a spiritual note:
"For those of you who don’t know, on June 26, 2006, I had a very powerful encounter with God, and a radical transformation that followed. It’s the most incredible thing that ever happened to me. If you would like to read about this, you can find it here: www.michaeldrive.com/en/spiritual.shtml
I hope that I will have the opportunity to meet many of you. Please drop me a line with any questions or comments you may have. My email address is: md@michaeldrive.com.”
BARREN CROSS online: www.barrencross.com & www.facebook.com/barrencross
New Pastor Brad project updates:
Posted by the artist at the Christian Metal Realm:
“I just want to let everyone know that I have been very busy recording. I have material for 3 albums about 90% recorded: Shredomatic (the 4th in the PB Shred Series), Heavenly Shred (disc 5 in the Shred Series- all 'instrumetal' versions of Classic Hymns) and Windlan - the debute album under that new name . And I will soon begin recording material (already written) for a fourth disc, the second Windlan album called, Back Breaker.
Why am I doing all this recording all at once? The time is just right--the inspiration is there- I have the time, and the schedules of the guest players are such that they are available right now. And there are some killer guests (I'm working on "bio pages" for all of them") they'll be up soon @ guitarjams.net
There will also be a n ew album series based upon the Book of Revelation. I'm also starting to write songs for a series of albums I'm going to call Windows On Revelation. All of these songs will be vocal tunes, which is a bit of a switch for me since most of my recent material has been instrumental. Each song will be based on a section of the Book Of Revelation and will come with a small group Bible study/discussion guide that you can use to lead a Bible study. When it's completed I will cover the whole book of Revelation. I think this will be a very cool offering. My view of Revelation is very different from the Pre-Trib view popularized by Tim LaHaye. I really focus on how the first century Christian (the origina recipients) would have understood the letter. It will be a VERY encouraging study!
PASTOR BRAD online: http://pastorbradrocks.com & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks
Sophomore album from THE SEVENTH POWER, Dominion & Power:
Press Release / Las Vegas, Nevada based THE SEVENTH POWER (released its) critically acclaimed self titled debut in 2006. With the follow up release expect more quasi-doomy brilliance from the Masters of Heavy Metal. With Dominion & Power, fans are once again treated to another colossal collaboration between axe-shredder extraordinaire Bill Menchen (TITANIC, FINAL AXE) and world-class drummer Robert Sweet of STRYPER. Menchen exceeds his lofty reputation with addictive riffs throughout; laced with fast, fluid, and emotion-filled guitar solos ala Randy Rhoades. Efficient and flashy as a guitar virtuoso, not a single note is wasted!
Sweet proves that his tribal beats and precision drumming are perfect for the massive heavy riffs shelled forth by THE SEVENTH POWER! Filled with monster riff after monster riff, Dominion & Power comes together to create a cohesive slab of dark metal with perfect flow, and an escalating sense of creepiness powered along by Menchen's Ozzy-styled brooding vocals – both monotonous and hypnotic! Lyrically, the album gallops forth with doom n' gloom, book of Revelation vintage apocalyptic themes countered with both salvation and redemption.
Brilliant artwork by Finnish artist Jan Yrlund only rounds out the thick, beefy production and unabashed heaviness unleashed by THE SEVENTH POWER. This is New Wave of British Heavy Metal at it's finest. And Dominion & Power proves to be an essential building block in putting together the perfect heavy metal collection.
Dominion & Power track listing:
1. “Dominion & Power”
2. “Everlasting Fire”
3. “Hailstones”
4. “Heavy Laden”
5. “King Of All Kings”
6. “Raise ‘M High”
7. “Sacrificial Blood”
8. “Sea Of Galilee”
9. “The Clouds”
10. “Under The Altar”
THE SEVENTH POWER online: www.facebook.com/theseventhpower
NEWS BRIEFS
* DARKWATER uploaded a video to the track “The Play II”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWTIRkcHyQ8
* THE HEAL is a bluesy hard rock project from guitarist Rex Carroll (WHITECROSS, THE FALL): https://myspace.com/rexcarrolltheheal
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Spring releases on CMS Sweden/Rivel Records:
DIVINEFIRE - Farewell:
Press Release / DIVINEFIRE was formed in the spring of 2004 as a result of a collaboration between Finnish composer and drummer, Jani Stefanovic (SINS OF OMMISSION & RENASCENT) and vocalist Christian Liljegren (NARNIA). The two added bassist Andreas Olsson (NARNIA, ROB ROCK & STORMWIND) to the bands line up a couple of months later.
DIVINEFIRE combines the heaviness of melodic extreme metal with the melodies of symphonic hardrock/metal blended with beautiful vocal harmonies. The result has been a tremendous mix and it takes the listener on an illustrious adventure and celebrated musical journey. Christian, Jani & Andreas understood this very well and have worked very hard during since 2004 and have delivered four incredible studio albums: Glory Thy Name, Hero, Into A New Dimension and last, but certainly not least, the bands most recent work, Farewell.
When DIVINEFIRE started to write the material for Farewell in 2007, the goal was to combine the variety of its three previous releases with top of the line production values. What we get on Farewell is all the elements that made Glory Thy Name, Hero and Into A New Dimension succesful but with added edge and power. Production values are warmer and more dynamic but still heavy and powerful.
Joining DIVINEFIRE ON Farewll is Christian’s younger brother Hubertus Liljegren (ex CRIMSON MOONLIGHT) on "growling“ vocals (Hubertus also made a guest appearance on the bands debut Glory Thy Name). Mats Levén ( ex. THERION, AT VANCE, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN’S RISING FORCE) will be handling the backing vocals. Mats has worked with Christian previoulsy in AUDIOVISION and NARNIA in addition to contributing lead vocals to several tracks on ESSENCE OF SORROW’s debut Reflections Of The Obscure. Carl Johan Grimmark returns to provide most of the albums lead guitar work.
All around, DIVINEFIRE fans will not be disappointed in that they still get all the elements that have made the group succesful: big bombastic sound with symphonic elements mixed with extreme metal.
Farewell track listing: “Calling The World”, “Unity”, “You Will Never Walk Away”, “Pass The Flame”, “Grow And Follow”, “My Roots Are Strong In You”, “King Of Kings”, “Heal Me”, “Farewell”
DIVINEFIRE online: http://divinefire.net & www.facebook.com/pages/Divinefire
REINXEED - The Light:
Press Release / The story of REINXEED got its start in Boden, a town located in North Sweden. REINXEED, a musical creation and vision of Tommy Johanssons, will finally see the light with it’s debut album The Light.
Tommy Johansson started to play guitar at the age of 9 after had seen a Gary Moore video, “Out in the Fields”, and singing at the age of 15 when he was introduced to the SKID ROW track “18 And Life”. His days of soft rock were over when he first heard HELLOWEEN and STRATOVARIUS.
After a couple of years in a music school, Tommy had become more of an "all around musician" who could play almost everything, including guitar, piano, singing, drums, bass guitar and also flute! His songwriting had of course developed to a more advanced level. In 2006, he decided that a movie soundtracks mixed with melodic power metal would be very cool (type of) music to compose and record. He got his own studio together, started to record these songs again with a better quality, and put them up on his MySpace site. By doing that, Daniel Eskilsson, drummer and band leader of the Swedish melodic power metal band MAJESTIC VANGUARD, heard Tommy’s songs and got him in touch with Christian Liljegren of CMS/ Rivel Records. Jani Stefanovic (DIVINEFIRE & ESSENCE OF SORROW) co-produced & mixed the album in additon to handling all the drums.
This is the first chapter of the REINXEED history and the band is really looking forward for the future of touring and recording albums.
The REINXEED concept story of The Light:
“This is a story between good and evil, where greed and power are united to conquer both sides into one dark place. “ReinXeed – The Light” is a story of the real life we live today, but summarized in to metaphors in a story of two kingdoms, Reindhill and Heelh. Once they were united as one, God sent them a flower to grow called Langarin, which had a healing divine power that was used for good only. But greed fell over the land of Heelh and they lay claim to the Langarin, and the harmony between them ended in silence. Reindhill got the quest from God to retain the goodness and restore the line between good and evil, for the prophecy of a perfect world had to be...” Tommy Johansson.
The Light track listing: “The Light”, “Great Hall Of ReinXeed”, “Eternity”, “Northern Sky”, “End Of This Journey”, “Legacy”, “Magic Might”, “Shyrheny”, “Kingdom Fall”, “Heavenly Fire”
REINXEED online: www.reinxeed.com & www.facebook.com/ReinXeed
STONEFUZE - Stonefuze:
Press Release / STONEFUZE (formerly CORNERSTONE SWE) gives you raw and heavy hard rock with loads of attitude guaranteed to make your spines shiver. After a long break, the band got together again (in) the summer of 2006 and did a few gigs in Scandinavia. In the summer of 2007 the band entered the studio to record their fourth album, the debut album while under the new moniker STONEFUZE. This record is a lot heavier and more intense then the others and will fill your soul with raw energy. In the process of making a new album and to mark a new era it also felt natural to rename the band.
STONEFUZE comes from the southern parts of Sweden and is well known for their high-octanesque sound and reputation as a live act. The band was formed as CORNERSTONE in 1989 and soon got something of a reputation as a real live band. They have done several tours in Sweden as well as playing festivals in Europe and Scandinavia. When the band started 1989, they were into southern rock with some acoustic sound. By 1990 and 1991 the band had experienced some turnover and started to play more powerful blues rock. At this time they started to become well known as a great live band with lots of energy. 1997 saw Mick Nordström (MODEST ATTRACTION & FLAGSHIP) join the band-helped them to change their sound in a heavier way.
Stonefuze track listing: “Alive”, “Apocalyptic”, “Fire And Flames”, “Motor Music”, “Pollution Solution”, “Redeemer”, “Just Do It”, “Pour Some Love”, “Loud Guitars”, “Grinding”, “Unknown”
Christian Liljegren departs NARNIA:
As recently reported in a statement from the vocalist:
“I felt for a long time that I needed to take a long break and I shared this with my friends and members of NARNIA. This is something I have felt since 2006 and it was a very hard decision to make because NARNIA is very big part of my life and it will always be. The others guys will continue and I will not stop them and I wish them the best of luck to continue the mission to spread the good news about JESUS CHRIST. I feel good and peaceful inside and it was a right decision to make for me in my life situation.
“I will continue to do music and run my record label CM Sweden/ Rivel Records. I am also working on a new solo album in Swedish where I will do some NARNIA songs with Swedish lyrics. Concerts are planned but all is delayed because right now I need time to rest.
“You will hear my voice on some albums this year. The final studio album with DIVINEFIRE called Farewell will be out JUNE 20, and I am one of the vocalists on the second album with the band 7 DAYS.
“I am forever thankful for all the memories I have had with CJ, Andreas & Andreas and all fantastic support and prayers from NARNIA fans all over the world. Please continue to support the band. I will also thank my manager and friend Rainer Mittelstädt at MCM Music for the great work for NARNIA and also Niclas & Frippe DOT Music in Sweden and of course all record labels who has released the NARNIA albums.
“I am very blessed to sing for my KING & SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST and I am looking forward for the future what GOD has planned for me.
“IN CHRIST WE ARE STRONG!”
NARNIA online: www.narniatheband.com & www.facebook.com/narniatheband
NEWS BRIEFS
* Latest from DELOREAN: “As many of you know, the band has gone through a lot of changes over the last three years. Our lineup has changed, our sound has evolved and we've grown as people and as musicians. In light of our recent rejuvenation, and - quite frankly - because there is another "DELOREAN" that is signed and touring internationally (yea, we know you haven't heard of them- we hadn't either; until we got invited to Spain to play at the running of the bulls in Pamplona, or something like that) we are reemerging with a new name, REBORN. Not to worry, our line up hasn't changed at all. We're still the five hot rockers you've all come to love. With the upcoming release of our new album, Edge of Existence, drawing near there's no better opportunity to rise from the ashes a new band. Thanks for your support, and we'll be seein' ya soon!"
* Guitarist Bill Menchen (TITANIC, THE SEVENTH POWER) conducted a recent interview with Metal To Infinity: http://mtibelgium.00freehost.com/InterviewTITANIC.html
FEATURED REVIEWS
EDEN’S WAY - Rock Solid
What we have in Eden’s Way is a blend of melodic metal, hard rock and arena rock heavily influenced by the eighties. The band can deliver some tasteful melodic rock and AOR moments as well. Read Full Review >>
GRAVE ROBBER - Be Afraid
Musically, what we have in Grave Robber is a melding of punk and hard rock with occasional Goth and melodic metal moments thrown in. Think Rackets And Drapes, The Misfits, Alice Cooper, Type O Negative, GWAR, Kiss, Danzig and Rob Zombie. Read Full Review >>
JACOBS DREAM - Dominion Of Darkness
Dominion Of Darkness picks up where Drama Of The Ages (and all the bands previous efforts) leaves off by heading in a classic US power metal direction. Also similar to Drama Of The Ages, Dominion Of Darkness gives prominence to the heavier and more guitar driven sound – fans of Iron Maiden, Queensryche, Sacred Warrior, Barren Cross and Scepter will find a lot to like here – while still showcasing the groups penchant for composing a song with a solid chorus hook. Read Full Review >>
SCARLET RAYNE - Theater Humanitarian (re-issue)
Scarlet Rayne can best be described as classic power metal – you will find an old school vibe throughout Theater Humanitarian – inviting a comparison to contemporaries Sacred Warrior, Recon, Queensryche, Fates Warning, Barren Cross and Iron Maiden. More recent acts such as Jacobs Dream (David Taylor era), The Sacrificed and Faith Factor must be mentioned as well. Read Full Review >>
SEVENTH AVENUE - Terium
What stands out most about Terium – a 15 song album featuring over 70 minutes of music – is its remarkable consistency in that all its material holds up under repeated play (not something you could always say about the bands past efforts). As a matter of fact, founding member Herbie Langhans (vocals/guitars) has mastered the art of melodic based songwriting. Read Full Review >>
THE SEVENTH POWER - Dominion & Power
Dominion & Power finds The Seventh Power continuing to draw upon the influences of straightforward heavy metal and hard rock. The main difference this time around is that Menchen pursues a more stripped down and back to the basics musical direction- at least in comparison to the self-titled debut. Read Full Review >>
SHINING STAR - Reset
I like to take the stance that change is good and, as a result, applaud a group when it decides to explore new musical territory. Let’s face facts: Fabio Rocha and company could easily have chosen to “play it safe” by recording “Another” Fatal Mistake or Enter Eternity “Again”; rather they make an about face by giving us what is by far the heaviest work from Shining Star to date. Read Full Review >>
TILES - Fly Paper
On Fly Paper Tiles continues to stay true to its roots by giving us (in the bands own words) "a blend of progressive rock complexity and soaring vocal melodies with an aggressive hard rock edge”. This is best demonstrated on lengthy progressive based tracks such as the three part “Markers” (6:56), sublime “Dragons, Dreams & Daring Deeds” (8:09) and Rush influenced “Hide And Seek” (8:31). Read Full Review >>
INTERVIEWS
Angelic Warlord interview - Jon Bålefalk of INCRAVE:
Incrave released its new album, Dead End, last month. Why don’t you go ahead and tell us a little bit about Dead End, specifically the writing and recording process.
As I mentioned before, we live far from each other so we write the music with the help of the Internet. We’ve got our own home studios that we record our ideas and then put the ideas up on a closed site where the other members can listen, give critique and record their own ideas on each song. Read Full Interview >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ROB ROCK officially back in IMPELLITTERI:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net and ShoutLife:
IMPELLITTERI guitarist Chris Impellitteri has issued the following update:
"First, I want to thank Guitar World magazine for including IMPELLITTERI in their “50 Fastest Guitarist of All Time” article. That was really nice of them to include me. I am definitely guilty of playing hyper-speed all too often. However, many people tell me I am the guitarist who probably started the craze of hyper-speed shred with the IMPELLITTERI Black EP.
"Now on to [IMPELLITTERI's] new record titled Good And Evil. The new music is being mixed in Vancouver with Greg Reely (DEVILDRIVER, FEAR FACTORY, etc.). I can say that this is by far the most amazing recording I have been involved with. It is filled with amazing riffs, fast shredding solos, screaming vocals, and of course a brutal rhythm section.
"The goal of this record was to make a historic album that will rival Van Halen 1, OZZY's Blizzard Of Oz, PANTERA's Cowboys From Hell, YNGWIE's Rising Force, METALLICA's Master Of Puppets, and even new artists like CHILDREN OF BODOM and AVENGED SEVENFOLD. And so, IMPELLITTERI Good And Evil is my attempt to rival the best. Hopefully, we have done our job well!! It was not easy.
"And now for all of the patient fans Rob Rock (vocals) is officially back in the band."
Rob Rock offers his thoughts:
“Rob Rock is currently in the studio recording vocals for the new IMPELLITTERI album titled Good And Evil. Rob reunites with long time friend and guitarist Chris Impellitteri for their first collaboration together since the IMPELLITTIER Crunch album. This album will bring back some of the classic Rob Rock/Chris Impellitteri sounds of Screaming Symphony, Answer To The Master and Eye Of The Hurricane along with some new sounds as well.”
IMPELLITTERI online: www.facebook.com/chris.impellitteri.7
SHINING STAR to Reset on third album:
Founding SHINING STAR member Fabio Rocha (guitars) has joined forces with DESTRA bassist Ricardo Parronchi to put together the group’s third full length release, Reset. The album finds SHINING STAR treading heavier musical territory to create a work characterized by “strong melodies, aggressive lyrics, guitars tuned in D and powerful vocals”. It also must be noted that no keyboards were used in the recording process. Parronchi takes on lead vocal duties - Rodrigo Collombo handles bass - and brings a gritty and low key vocal style as opposed to the high end delivery of Lance King (AVIAN), who performed on SHINING STAR’s 2005 Nightmare Records sophomore effort Enter Eternity.
The São Paulo, Brazil based group debuted on Megahard Records in 2000 with the full length offering Fatal Mistake.
Reset track listing:
1. ”Reset”
2. “Desperate and Suffocated”
3. “Radiation Flame”
4. “Insanity”
5. “Enslaved By Fury”
6. “Reign Of Terror”
7. “I Hate You”
8. “You're Sick”
9. “Tell Me”
10. “Nightmares”
11. “Guilty Of Crime”
12. “Karma” (Brazilian bonus track)
THE VASELINE RATES release debut album, Intelligent Design:
Press Release / The V-RATS album Intelligent Design is now (finished). Many thanks to Mark and Sheena at M2 Studios. We’re aiming to have it available for release the middle of June and yes! We will be having a launch party!
Regrettably we have had to drop “CTVC” off the album, as we couldn’t get a publishing license from the Jimi Hendrix estate. We sent them a version of the track and apparently when I spoke to them they claimed the guitar was TOO accurate and said we had sampled Jimi’s riff in computer software! The fact is Paul May played the riff too accurately for them and they didn’t believe it wasn’t a sample! I’m sure Jimi would have given us his blessing but there you go! Either way, we’re looking to getting the album out. It’s an absolute scorcher!
Speaking of Paul May. He now along with Mike Dejager is an official Marshall Amplification Endorsee! Well done Paul and thanks for the support from the guys At Marshall Amplification.
Intelligent Design track listing:
1. “No Good For Me”
2. “Dirty Little Secret”
3. “Know Definition”
4. “et al”
5. “Lisa”
6. “Point Of No Return”
7. “So Over You”
8. “All The Ones”
9. “South Of My Heart”
10. “Devil To Pay”
11. “Blood Demons & Whisky”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE compilation, 4 All: The Best Of LNJ:
LIBERTY N' JUSTICE 4 All: The Best Of LNJ is being released across North America on April 1st. It features songs from the last three LNJ records (which featured guest vocals from Lou Gramm of FOREIGNER, Sebastian Bach, Jani Lane of WARRANT, Michael Sweet of STRYPER to name a few). It all so features 4 brand new tracks recorded exclusively for this CD featuring guest vocals by Dug Pinnick of KINGS X, Steve Brown of TRIXTER/ STEREO FALLOUT, Derrick Lefevre of LILLIAN AX and Dale & Troy Thompson of BRIDE.
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE will also be covering the old FEAR NOT tune “We Have A God” (from the bands 1993 self-titled debut). The song even features a guest appearance by original FEAR NOT vocalist Larry Worley.
Unlike other LNJ CDs the "Best Of" will be available at first only at retail locations in North America and exclusively in Europe though MusicBuyMail and ArtistWorxx. More info soon....
4 All: The Best Of LNJ track listing (with guest appearances):
New tracks: “We have A God” (Derrick Lefevre of LILLIAN AX & Larry Worley of FEAR NOT), “Rage” (Dug Pinnick of KING’S X), “Devil In The Details” (Steve Brown of TRIXTER/ STEREO FALLOUT), “Author Of The Flame” (Dale & Troy Thompson of BRIDE)
From Welcome To The Revolution (2004): “Blind Man's Bluff” (Michael Sweet of STRYPER), “Noise” (Jamie Rowe of GUARDIAN), “Shed My Skin” (Lou Gramm of FOREIGNER)
From Soundtrack Of A Soul (2006): “Another Nail” (Sebastian Bach ex-SKID ROW), “Sight Unseen” (Leif Garret), “Flinch” (Tony Harnell ex-TNT), “Thy Will Be Done” (Mark Slaughter of SLAUGHTER & Pete Loran of TRIXTER), “Killer Grin” (Stephen Pearcey of RATT)
From Independence Day (2007): “Doubting Thomas” (John Corabi ex-MOTLEY CRUE/RATT/UNION), “Monkey Dance” (Jack Russell of GREAT WHITE), “Soldier” (Kelly Keagey of NIGHT RANGER & Mark Slaughter of SLAUGHTER), “Independence Day” (Kelly Kelling of BATON ROUGE/ TSO), “Praying For A Miracle” (Ted Poley of DANGER DANGER), “Addiction” (Jani Lane ex-WARRANT)
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE online: www.libertynjustice.net & www.facebook.com/libertynjusticerocks
Good new and bad news to report from THEOCRACY:
First, the bad news...
We regret to announce that bassist Patrick Parris has decided to step down from THEOCRACY. Patrick has decided to concentrate exclusively on vocal duties for Atlanta band ECLIPSED BY INSANITY, and we wish him the best in everything he does. This decision was completely amicable and there are no hard feelings either way. Patrick is extremely talented, and we know his talents will take him far.
You can read Patrick’s statement at the THEOCRACY forum: www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/theocracy/392653-patrick-parris-resigns-theocracy.html
Now, the good news...
The label that THEOCRACY is signing to for the release of Mirror of Souls is in the final stages of finalizing the contract, so watch this space for news on that front very soon. The artwork is being handled by the very talented guys at Invisible Creature, and the album will be mastered by the legendary Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios. We will have a release date for you soon, so stay tuned!”
THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband
VERTICAL ALIGNMENT announce new project, The Trail Of Tears Suite:
Press Release / The Trail of Tears Suite is a concept album that tells the tale of the Cherokee Nation. With over two hours of cutting edge progressive rock music filled with Native stylings, this project explores the history of this First Nations people from before contact with Europeans through the infamous Trail of Tears and beyond history to the near future. The Suite was conceived as a testimony of a noble people who have been cruelly displaced by the greed of white men. Their ongoing tale is one of victorious overcoming through the power of their Creator even amidst crushing and impossible odds.”
Mike Florio will be lending his talents to the album as well:
Mike Florio joins VERTICAL ALIGNMENT in this epic project. Contributing his awesome vocal skills and his keyboard virtuosity, Mike is a welcome addition to the VA ranks. He also shows his songwriting chops in several places. His talents in arranging and mixing add a new richness to the signature VA sound.
VERTICAL ALIGNMENT is a band/recording project that paints both epic musical pictures and shorter vignettes. Taking such influences as old GENESIS and YES, early MARILLION, and very current GLASS HAMMER, VA creates a style that is all their own. Using intricate instrumentation and richly stacked vocal harmonies, the group uses both odd time signatures and memorable hooks to keep your attention. Most of all, VA are storytellers. Right from the start in the VA 2006 full length debut Signposts, the group used historical incidents to create progressive epics. From the Titanic to the then very current and hot Iraq War, VA offered a unique perspective on events in our world. The tradition continued on the 2009 follow up effort Lost In Space.
VERTICAL ALIGNMENT online: www.facebook.com/VerticalAlignment
NEWS BRIEFS
* Bullroser Records signed HB, a female fronted symphonic metal group from Finland that has received comparison to NIGHTWISH. Frozen Inside, HB’s Bullroser debut, will be released on April 23, 2008. A video the group recently uploaded of the track “It Is Time” can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=teL3dZCJXUA
* IMPELLITTERI uploaded live footage of “Overture” and “Visual Prism” being performed during its 1995 Answer To The Master tour of Japan: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xikV1UmOAsU
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
New DVD and album on the way from DELIVERANCE:
In a recent post at the Christian Metal Realm, founding member Jimmy P. Brown announces the upcoming release of a live DVD:
“Mike Phillips (guitars) will be releasing a DVD of our show in California on January 4th, 2008. It was well shot and edited. Although there were some goofs here and there, the show came out OK. But the DVD guy did a great job with the menu and such. I am not sure when Mike will be releasing it but it should be in the next couple of months. The songs are as follows: “Cause & Effect”, “As Above - So Below”, “No Time”, “Stay of Execution”, “Windows of the Soul”, “Not To Good For Me”, “Pseudo Intellectual”, “Ramming Speed”, “Sanctuary”, “Weapons of our Warfare” & “This Present Darkness”
“Then, we encored with a cover... Now, I know we’re gonna hear some crap about it but you might as well know upfront it was just for fun!!! We covered SLAYER's "Reign in Blood". And by the way it came out KILLER!!!
“It is Kevin Lee's (drums) last show with us as he has moved to Colorado. So, it was memorable. We had a blast! That's all that matters. But, there are interviews and commentary and all sorts of fun stuff. So, I think it will be worth the $10.”
DELIVERANCE is also at work on its next album. Brown goes into further detail at the Christian Metal Realm:
“Mike Phillips and I are writing for the next album. I am considering another concept record but as most of you know my thoughts change minute to minute. LOL. But we are planning on another release by the end of the year. And, by the end of the summer, Mike and I have been toying around with a CD release of older songs re-recorded and what not for fun!!! Jim Chaffin (drums) will be joining us as well as some other surprise guests. It should be a lot of fun!!!”
DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks
INCRAVE to release sophomore album, Dead End:
Press Release / The Swedish heavy/power metal band INCRAVE will release their new album Dead End (on) April 25th in Europe through Ulterium Records. The album will be distributed by Sound Pollution in Scandinavia and by Metal Heaven in the rest of Europe. The North American release date will take place on May 13th.
Dead End was mixed and mastered by Per Ryberg (TAD MOROSE, MORGANA, LEFAY, BLOODBOUND) and the album artwork painted by Kristian Wåhlin (AT THE GATES, EMPEROR, THERION,ETC). Guests on the album include Daniel Olsson (TAD MOROSE) and Markus Sigfridsson (DARKWATER, HARMONY, 7 DAYS).
Dead End track listing:
1. “Shattered”
2. “The Forgotten”
3. “A Shadow In The Dark”
4. “The Touch Of Death”
5. “Unveil The Truth”
6. “Shades Of Me”
7. “An Empty Soul”
8. “Scream In Silence”
9. “Never More”
10. “Dead End”
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html
INCRAVE online: www.facebook.com/incraveofficial
JERUSALEM announce new album:
Vocalist & guitarist Ulf Christiansson offers further detail:
“Thought I would give a report on how things are going at the JERUSALEM front. In September last year me, Michael (Ulvsgard – drums) and Peter (Carlsohn – bass) started to talk about the possibilities of making a new JERUSALEM album.
“We decided to fast and pray and meet every night for 2 weeks for this. We felt we wanted to create a record based on the ways we made Prophet, where we basically walked into the studio, started the tape-recorder (after a time of praising and thanking God) and then playing whatever comes up in our spirits and minds.
“All the songs on Prophet where created in this way (“City On Fire”, “Risen”, etc). And it's been exiting to see what has been coming out of this. I feel there's a new freshness and joy. We have now done this for 2-3 hours (mainly Tuesdays) almost once a week up ‘til now.
“At this time we have about sixteen 90 minute tapes (approx. 1440 minutes) packed with all that happened during our sessions. It sounds different and we are exited. During the following weeks we will have to choose from all this material and decide what we will keep on working more on and not...
“We are doing this without keyboards at this time. It's only the three of us - guitar/vocals, drums and bass - and it sounds very "airy" and open. We may add up some keyboards at the end, but it will not be as dominating as on earlier productions.
“So when will it be released? Well, if we can have it done for September it would be great. All three of us are pretty busy with many other things we are involved in, but it would be great if it could be done by September.”
JERUSALEM online: www.jerusalem.se & www.facebook.com/pages/Jerusalem
NEWS BRIEFS
* Arkeyn Steel Records to re-issue out of print 1990 SCARLET RAYNE debut, Theater Humanitarian: "From Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, SCARLET RAYNE has released a magnificent private piece of power/progressive metal ala early QUEENSRYCHE. Focused in melody and enforced with apocalyptic but still catchy guitar themes and crystal clear vocals, this is for sure NOT to be missed. Brilliant compositions. Christian lyrics. In its original form this is one of the rarest private pressings of the 90s. Available again on CD: fully re-mastered, new artwork, complete lyrics, unreleased photoS plus an in depth biography. Vinyl edition limited to 500 copies. Both editions will feature 4 never released before bonus tracks.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Debut album from FAITH FACTOR, Against A Darkened Sky:
Press Release / FAITH FACTOR, the New Jersey-based Christian power metal band featuring ex-DEADLY BLESSING singer Ski, is scheduled to enter the studio today (Friday, February 15) to begin recording its full-length debut entitled Against A Darkened Sky. A November 1 release via Metallic Arch Angel Records is expected.
A studio report was recently provided by the band:
“We have begun the recording phase of the new album and the drum tracks are recorded. We have been thru 1 drum editing session, and Chris (Matusieski – guitars), Joe (Manghan – bass) and myself will be at Sound Hall Studios this weekend. Eight new songs will be on this album due mostly to some songs over the ten-minute mark. Against A Darkened Sky is the continuation of our acclaimed EP, 7/7/07, and lyrically God has provided the words to the message he wants us to bring to the masses. This album will be released via Metallic Archangel Records.”
In terms of musical direction, FAITH FACTOR describes the album as “basically a continuation on the EP that was released (last year). The material is straight out power metal while infusing a little prog here and there. The material was written especially with Ski (lead vocals) in mind so you can expect to hear him really push the boundaries.”
According to a band bio, "With crushing rhythms, soaring melodies and thundering appeal, FAITH FACTOR glorifies our savior and sends a message of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ. FAITH FACTOR uses a different approach utilizing a triple guitar attack, tight bombastic bass and drums, and melodic vocals with an aggressive edge. FAITH FACTOR consists of six musicians with a brotherhood serving our Lord Jesus Christ. Our mission is to spread the good news of salvation to the masses using music and biblically sound lyrics as the tool."
Joshua Perahia re-issues:
Press Release / Critically acclaimed melodic hard rock guitarist Joshua Perahia (of the band JOSHUA) has re-launched his web site at www.joshuaperahia.com
Joshua is also getting prepared to enter the studio with vocalist Jeff Fenholt, who was the lead singer on the 1985 JOSHUA album Surrender. The new album has tentative title of Resurrection.
In advance of the new record, Joshua is reissuing three of his classic albums, which have not been in print for six years. Newly re-mastered CD’s of The Hand is Quicker Than the Eye, Surrender (with new cover art), and Chapter One (with new cover art) will be available March 20 through his web site, CDBaby and many other hard rock mail order outlets worldwide.
Finally, keep an eye out for his much-anticipated DVD release Intense Defense: Live in the Studio, which features Rob Rock on vocals. The DVD will also include live footage from various appearances with guests Paul Shortino (ROUGH CUTT, QUIET RIOT), Neal Grusky (TAKARA) and Jeff Fenholt.
The Hand Is Quicker Than The Eye track listing: “Falling Again”, “November Is Going Away”, “Sweet ‘Lil Hurricane”, “A Song For Lisa”, “Let’s Breakaway”, “Broken Dream”, “Flying High”, “Portrait Of A Woman”
Surrender track listing: “Surrender”, “Heart Full Of Soul”, “Your Love Is Gone”, “Stay Alive (Go On Believing)”, “Rockin’ The World”, “Back To The Rock”, “Hold On”, “Show Me The Way”, “Loveshock”, “Rockin’ The World (Reprise)
Chapter One track listing: “Concrete Jungle”, “You Want It All”, “Steady Weapon”, “One Night Is Not Enough”, “Long Way To Heaven”, “Dark Days”, “It Must Be Love”, “Tears Of Joy”, “Walk Into The Light”, “Devil’s River, “Right On Target”
Joshua Perahia online: www.joshuaperahia.com & www.facebook.com/JoshuaPerahiaOfficialPage
LETTER 7 - New album & line-up changes:
Press Release / Follow The Light will be the title to the sophomore album from Phoenix, Arizona based LETTER 7. Look for a summer release.
There are also several changes to report in the LETTER 7 line-up:
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, some big changes have been made during the recording phase of our second CD release. We have a new line up:
“On vocals: Steve Young -
Steve is a professional vocalist performing in bands such as ICON, ROCK CANDY AND SYLENCE. His style and stage presence adds a new fire to the LETTER 7 project!
“On Bass: Russ Adams -
Russ brings 18yrs experience on the bass including a brief journey with the Christian rock band HAVEN.
“On Drums: Tanner Siegfort -
Tanner is one of the best young drummers in the Phoenix area. Although we are currently still in the auditioning stages for drummers, his skills and dedication to our group so far has really been impressive.”
LETTER 7 online: http://letter7rocks.wix.com/letter7rocks & www.facebook.com/letter.seven.96
NEWS BRIEFS
* FAITH FACTOR live footage online at YouTube, including “Deceiver” and “Prayer Warriors”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mpp89JhPCSM and www.youtube.com/watch?v=5D5SJgdyYTw
* Metal To Infinity interview with FAITH FACTOR vocalist Norman “Ski” Kiersnowski: http://mtibelgium.00freehost.com/InterviewFAITHFACTOR.html
FEATURED REVIEWS
BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA - Axis Of Evil
Musically, Axis Of Evil finds BMO continuing to traverse Goth and doom metal territory – you will find a dark and moody vibe prevalent throughout – with the occasional straightforward hard rock and classic metal influence. If anything, this proves the more accomplished work when compared to The Great Apostasy in that the material here comes across in a more accessible and song orientated manner. Read Full Review >>
INCRAVE - Dead End
Dead End can best be described as a musical continuation of The Escape in that the band maintains a melodic metal heading with the occasional power metal influence. Fans of Tad Morose, Nocturnal Rites, Essence Of Sorrow, Narnia and Mehida will be drawn into this as will those into XT, Leviticus, Teramaze, Laudamus and Stryper. Read Full Review >>
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE - 4 All: The Best Of LNJ
As far as compilations go, 4 All: The Best of LNJ is as good as it gets- there is not a bad track here. Yes, I might have made a different selection or two here and there but you cannot go wrong with any of the songs chosen. Read Full Review >>
PASTOR BRAD - Shredded Sweet
Shredded Sweet, the third instrumental hard rock release from Altoona, Pennsylvania based minister Pastor Brad, continues where his very fine 2007 offering Reshredded leaves off. The album, for example, heads in an instrumental guitar (i.e.: “shred”) based direction certain to appeal to fans of Joe Satriani (Surfing With The Alien), Steve Vai (Passion And Warfare), David Chastain (Within The Heat & Elegant Seduction), Joey Tafolla (Out Of The Sun), James Byrd (Son Of Man) and Fourth Estate (Finesse And Fury & See What I See). Read Full Review >>
SAINT - Crime Scene Earth
On Crime Scene Earth Saint stays true to its form by giving us another slab of quality classic metal. All of the usual “suspects”, of course, come into play when inviting a direct comparison: Judas Priest, Armageddon, Metal Church, Accept and older Ultimatum. Read Full Review >>
SCREAM IN EDEN - Original Sin
Scream In Eden got its start in 1991 when it placed the track “Till The End” on the Star Song compilation Brave New World. After shortening its name to Eden, the group independently released its full length debut, Fan The Flame, in the mid-nineties but a lack of promotion prevented the album from receiving the acclaim and notoriety it deserved. Read Full Review >>
SOULJOURNERS - Mind Control
The experience of listening to Mind Control cannot help but leave one impressed with the strength of the groups musicianship. If anything, Souljourners captures the instrumental prowess – not to mention guitar driven heaviness – that makes other progressive bands such as Susprye and Darkwater so successful. Read Full Review >>
THIEVES & LIARS - When Dreams Become Reality
The seventies happened to be known as the “Me Decade”, an era characterized by not only the good (Pittsburgh Steelers, Star Wars) and the not so good (disco, Donny & Marie) but its quality metal and hard rock scene as well. And that is where San Diego, California based Thieves & Liars comes in with the unique seventies influenced hard rock of its 2008 Facedown debut When Dreams Become Reality. Read Full Review >>
INTERVIEWS
Angelic Warlord interview - Sidney Allen Johnson of BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA:
You recently released the fourth full length BMO album, Axis Of Evil. What are your feelings about Axis Of Evil? Are you happy with the way the album turned out?
You will hear every artist claim that their latest record is their best one and they are always elated about how good it is. Well, on one hand I think that is true. I am very happy with this record and I am very happy with its predecessor The Great Apostasy: A Conspiracy Of Satanic Christianity. I think that both, together, are essentially a one-two punch. Read Full Interview >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Rob Rock to front eighties metal project FIRES OF BABYLON:
Press Release / FIRES OF BABYLON, the classic 1980s-style, shredding U.S. heavy metal band featuring guitarist Lou St. Paul (WINTERS BANE), vocalist Rob Rock (ex-IMPELLITTERI), bassist Kelly Conlon (ex-DEATH and drummer Robert Falzano (ex-ANNIHILATOR will release its debut album on April 25, 2008 via Metal Heaven.
In 1990, guitarist Lou St. Paul formed WINTERS BANE and since that time has consistently displayed his excellent songwriting skills, playing great riffs and shredding solos over intelligent, well-thought-out lyrical essays. Highly impressed by Lou's playing on WINTERS BANE's album Redivivus, Metal Heaven's A&R representative Georg Siegl asked St. Paul to write the material and put together a band to record a classic '80s metal album - and FIRES OF BABYLON is the result.
Comments St. Paul: "I was asked if I would write and album with known players from other bands. Of course I said yes. We put the details together and soon the project was on."
And the music? 100% pure U.S. metal which, according to St. Paul, deals with "lyrical themes about relationships, struggles and triumphs, political commentary, and Biblical world views."
FIRES OF BABYLON line up:
Rob Rock - Lead Vocals
Lou St. Paul - Guitars
Kelly Conlon - Bass
Robert Falzano - Drums
Fires Of Babylon track listing:
1. “Falling To Pieces”
2. “Devilution”
3. “When The Kingdom Comes”
4. “Lake Of Fire”
5. ”Holy Resurrection”
6. “Going Through Changes”
7. “Lazarus Rising”
8. “Revolution Coming”
9. “Generation Of Destruction”
10. “Castles Are Burning”
Rob Rock llive CD/DVD scheduled for 2009 release on AFM Records:
The ROB ROCK BAND is performing at the PPUSA festival in Atlanta on September 27th 2008. This performance will be recorded for a 2009 Live CD/DVD release on AFM records. The band (will) include his current Holy Hell and Garden Of Chaos line up:
Rob Rock - Lead Vocals
Carl Jjohan Grimmark - Guitars
Peter Halgren - Guitars
Andreas Olsson - Bass Guitar
Andreas Johansson - Drums
This super highly anticipated DVD is Rob's first official DVD release since the "Voice of Melodic Metal" began his 20 year singing career!
The DVD will also include bonus interviews, behind the scenes footage, and selections from current and past bands, tours, rehearsals and concert footage that has been previously unreleased.
This is also Rob's first ever live CD and will feature song performances from his four highly praised solo albums and other selections from his past studio recordings.
A definite must have for all ROB ROCK fans! More details to be revealed as we develop our production details of this very special release.
Rob Rock online: www.robrock.com/index2.html & www.facebook.com/pages/Rob-Rock-The-Voice-of-Melodic-Metal
NEWS BRIEFS
* The release of the sophomore DYNASTY album, Warriors Of The King, has been delayed until this spring. Further details as they become available.
* Lords Of Metal interview with Rob Rock: www.lordsofmetal.nl/en/interviews/view/id/1878
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
SEVENTH AVENUE unveils track listing & artwork to new album:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
German Christian power metallers SEVENTH AVENUE will release their sixth studio album, Terium, on March 28 via Massacre Records. The "conceptual" CD - which is said to "deliver a complex fantasy story" - was produced by Herbie Langhans, was mastered by Sascha Paeth and has a running time of over 70 minutes.
Terium track listing:
1. “Under The Surface”
2. “Crowd In The Dark”
3. “Terium”
4. “Authorities”
5. “Future's Dawn”
6. “Brighter Than The Sun”
7. “Needs”
8. “Two Masters”
9. “Hands Of The King”
10. “Priests And Servants”
11. “Trail Of Blood”
12. “Betrayal”
13. “Way To The Stars”
14. “Innocence”
15. “New Era”
SEVENTH AVENUE line-up
Herbie Langhans - Lead Vocals & Guitars
Florian Gottsleben - Guitars
Markus Beck - Bass
Mike Pflüger - Drums
STRYPER to title new album Murder By Pride:
Vocalist Michael Sweet furnishes his thoughts about the meaning behind the albums title:
"Sometimes we are murdered by our pride, and our own pride overtakes everything else in our life and we are blinded to that," Michael Sweet said. "So many times our pride overtakes what we are supposed to do as believers."
A post by Michael at the STRYPER Forum updates the progress the band is making on Murder By Pride:
“As far as the new STRYPER record goes - I'm still tracking vocals in my studio and we plan to start mixing by the first week in February. We should be finished mixing by the end of February and then we'll master, do a photo shoot and then the rest will be up to artwork department at Big3 to put it all together and package it. I'm not confirming anything but I'd say it should be out July or August and of course a tour will follow later in the year. I know that some of you were expecting a release sooner but things have transpired that are out of our control and I can assure you that it will be worth the wait. The record sounds amazing and it will have everything that you've always wanted a STRYPER record to have - melodies, guitar solos, stacked vocal harmonies and screams. Sonically, it's our best to date. It's a very edgy record yet at the same time it retains it's melodic sense. I'll keep you updated as we progress.”
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
NEWS BRIEFS
* Videos from Cornerstone California 2007 at Irvine, California on September 28-29, 2007 (includes performances from NEON CROSS, BARREN CROSS & BLOODGOOD: www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=4261EE75AB73B30D
* The GUARDIAN blog of bassist David Bach: http://rollandrock.typepad.com/davidbach/christian_rock/index.html
INTERVIEWS
Angelic Warlord interview with Egidio of BOARDERS:
How would you describe your music for those who haven't heard Boarders yet?
A mix of classic metal and thrash metal and hard rock. We should call it Thrash Rock to be honest! We pay particular attention to melodies and the message in the background of our music, which is strongly Christian based and positive. We put special emphasis on guitars, vocals based on a solid drum-bass groove. Read Full Interview >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
NEON CROSS anthology update:
Vocalist David Raymond Reeves provides the latest at Christian Hard Music:
“Well, here's the recording news:
“The anthology is nearly complete. It may even have to be "trimmed" a little cuz there's so much music. Right now we've got 19 tunes- 11 are finished, 5 are down to mix & mastering and 3 are little things like cleaning up backing vocals.
“I really like this "album" because it follows a logical progression by filling in the blanks. Twenty years of music and most people will see for the first time how we moved from Frontline Life to Neon Cross to Torn and beyond without it seeming quirky and abrupt.
“Right now it's a couple of cuts from everything, released and unreleased. Frontline Life, California Metal, Neon Cross, NCII, Premium Cuts, Torn, NC17, NC2000 (? this never had a real name, it was all techno-metal... never really finished), and our metal praise and worship thing (also nameless at this point).
“Anyone who made it out to Calistone got a live sampling of most of the unreleased stuff: “Nothing But the Blood”, “You're the One”, “Revolution”. We even did our live version of “Snake Eat Snake”, which appears on the latest LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE disc Independence Day.”
NEON CROSS online: www.neoncrossmusic.com & www.facebook.com/pages/NEON-CROSS
SAINT - Crime Scene Earth details revealed:
Press Release / SAINT, one of the pivotal groups to emerge from the eighties Christian metal scene, returns with Crime Scene Earth, its seventh studio album and the first since 2006’s The Mark.
Crime Scene Earth will be independently released by the Pacific Northwest based group worldwide on February 26, 2008.
Bassist Richard Lynch and guitarist Dee Harrington shared production duties, while Lynch, Harrington and Tom Nunes recorded and engineered the project at Armor Studio in Salem, Oregon. Nunes is accredited with mastering. Lynch also designed the cover artwork and CD layout.
Crime Scene Earth is the first SAINT project to feature Lynch on lead vocals, who fronts six of the albums tracks. Long-term vocalist Josh Kramer handles the remainder of the albums material, including a cover of the classic JUDAS PRIEST track “Invader” (making its initial appearance on Stained Class from 1978).
According to the group, Lynch took on a lead vocal role due to “the decision to head in a heavier direction on Crime Scene Earth, which is slightly heavier than The Mark, which is slightly heavier than In The Battle”. In the Battle came out in 2004 in follow up to the 1999 release The Perfect Life.
Crime Scene Earth track listing:
1. “Intro”
2. “Half A Time Measure”
3. “Terror In The Sky”
4. “Everlasting God”
5. “Crime Scene Earth”
6. “The Judas In Me”
7. “Too Many”
8. “Invader”
9. “Bended Knee”
10. “Lost”
SAINT online: www.saintsite.com & www.facebook.com/saintband
NEWS BRIEFS
* IMPELLITTERI re-issued its 1995 live album Live! Fast! Loud! as a special edition with new artwork and 2 bonus tracks! The long out of print Live! Fast! Loud! CD will now be available for ordering en mass once again. The re-issue contains TONS of new unreleased photos and more importantly, 2 NEW bonus tracks. One is "Rat Race" and the other is an ULTRA RARE live acoustic performance of "Power of Love". The "Power of Love-acoustic" track may actually not stay on there long so the ones who order fast will get it.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BLOODGOOD bassist releases solo album:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Press Release / BLOODGOOD bassist Michael Bloodgood has just released his new solo worship album, The Cross Changes Everything, via TAG Artists Group. Steve Smith (EAGLES, HEART, VAN HALEN) mixed the project and Quinton Gibson (SONICFLOOD, PETRA, MICHAEL TATE) mastered the album in Franklin, TN. The album, which was released under the MICHAEL BLOODGOOD & FRIENDS banner, contains the following tracks:
1. “Oh Happy Day”
2. “Hosanna In the Highest”
3. “God You’re So Good”
4. “Break Our Hearts”
5. “We Are One”
6. “Glory, Glory Hallelujah”
7. “The Cross Changes Everything”
8. “For the Cross”
9. “I'll Fly Away”
10. “Soon & Very Soon”
11. “Strong Tower”
12. “Lord I Lift Your Name On High”
13. “I'll Find My Way”
14. “Blessed Be The Lord”
15. “The Cross Changes Everything” (bonus track with Les Carlsen on lead vocals)
Mirror Of Souls update from THEOCRACY:
Details provided by founding member and vocalist Matt Smith:
“Sorry for the long time between updates, but there hasn’t been anything to update. We decided to give Solid State (the label that wanted to put the record out) until the end of January to get something going, or we were going to have to look elsewhere. We’ve all been waiting way too long already. They understood and said that the most recent band they signed took over a year for the deal to be finalized and put into motion, so they admitted that it’s probably for the best. Basically, the guy there who initially contacted us is the one guy who’s into melodic Metal (the label is traditionally known for hardcore bands, and we would have been their first in this style), so he had an uphill battle ahead of him anyway.
“So where does that leave us? That’s what we’re trying to decide. There are small labels interested, but I’m not sure how much they could really do for us, especially with the abysmal state of the industry in this day and age. We’re considering putting it out on our own as well, which makes more and more sense as things get worse and worse in the music business, but of course that takes a chunk of money and careful planning, to say the least. So we’re discussing our options. I’m really sorry about all this, but it’s completely been beyond our control up to this point.
“We have a very promising plan for artwork and layout for the album, so if that works out, you’ll definitely get top-notch artwork and packaging when you finally get it in your hands. That’s important to me, so I’m excited about that.”
THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband
THIEVES & LIARS release debut concept album, When Dreams Become Reality:
Press Release / Rock and roll is not dead! This statement resonates on every track of When Dreams Become Reality, the Facedown Records debut album from THIEVES & LAIRS. The San Diego-based power trio have spent the last several years constructing a concept record that will saturate your senses and take you on an epic journey of dreams and betrayal, loss and hope. The Zeppelin-meets-Floyd production came through a painstaking transfer process. Using recording techniques from the late 60's and early 70's, the band tracked most of the record live, giving the songs a very natural and warm sound.
Kyle Rosa's thundering yet graceful drumming provided the necessary foundation for bassist Joey Bradford, whose playing solidifies the rhythm section with tasteful lines of expression. The aggressive and soulful guitar of Corey Edelmann completes the massive sound of this three-piece. Bradford's energetic and passionate vocals flow seamlessly between songs, showcasing his ability to sound natural whether screaming on "Betrayed by Blood" or pouring his heart out on "Alone". The attention to detail and thought put into every song is evident in the production, which included organ, a boys choir, and strings. The violinist's Stradivarius will move you on the ballad "Forgotten", while the harmonizing boys' chorus will haunt you on "The Author of Dreams".
Lyrically, When Dreams Become Reality is a conceptual work that chronologically traces the life of the Old Testament figure Joseph. What proves significant is that THIEVES & LIARS do not give us a detailed biographical sketch of Joseph but rather convey his experiences - and the grief and hardships that went along with it - by putting themselves in his shoes from a first person standpoint. The end result is an overall theme of how faith and hope can prove significant in helping us get through the most difficult and trying times in life.
This 71 minute masterpiece is sure to instill hope in today's rock and roll scene; there is a revival coming, and the preachers are THIEVES & LIARS.
When Dreams Become Reality track listing:
1. “The Dream”
2. “Betrayed By Blood”
3. “Road To Nowhere”
4. “Slavin’ Away”
5. “Run”
6. “Alone”
7. “Forgotten”
8. “When Dreams Become Reality”
9. “Good Times”
10. “Seven Long Years”
11. “Reconciled”
12. “The Author Of Dreams”
Facedown Records online: http://facedownrecords.com
FEATURED REVIEWS
ACTION - Action
Action, as one would expect, delivers a sound heavily rooted in the eighties. Drawing upon the influences of melodic rock, AOR and melodic hard rock, Action is certain to appeal to fans of Journey, Foreigner, Survivor, Boston, AdrianGale, Line Of Fire and a host of others of similar style. On the Christian side of the fence, I can see Action also gaining the interest of those into Shout, Guardian, Novella, Stryper, Mad Max and perhaps even Petra as well. Read Full Review >>
DELIVERANCE - River Disturbance (Collector’s Edition)
River Disturbance, on the other hand, finds Jimmy P. Brown and company heading in polished and subdued hard rock territory but still delivering an ample amount of guitar driven momentum in the process. This is best exhibited on classy mid-tempo hard rockers “Belltown”, “Breathing Still” and the albums reflective title track. Read Full Review >>
KERRY LIVGREN - Collector’s Sedition (Director’s Cut)
Collector’s Sedition (Director’s Cut), the latest solo release from guitarist/keyboardist Kerry Livgren, had its beginnings in the material Livgren put together for Kansas’ 2000 reunion album Somewhere To Elsewhere. Livgren was in a particularly prolific songwriting period at the time when, in a conversation with Kansas drummer Phil Ehart, he mentioned that the new songs he was working on had a Kansas-like feel to them. Read Full Review >>
LORDCHAIN - Finding Balance
Lordchain can best be described as straightforward hard rock and metal with occasional groove and modern undertones. What stands out most about the group is its melodic based songwriting, a penchant it best puts on display throughout Finding Balance. Read Full Review >>
RESURECTION BAND - Rainbow’s End
Resurrection Band came out of the Chicago, Illinois based Jesus People USA community in 1978 with the blues based hard rock its full length debut Awaiting Your Reply. Returning a year later with a more guitar driven follow up effort in Rainbow’s End, Resurrection Band still allows for the acoustic guitar to play a role in its music (check out “Concert For A Queen” and “Every Time It Rains”) while maintaining the blues based elements to its sound as well (“Paint A Picture” comes to mind). Read Full Review >>
ROSANNA’S RAIDERS - Fire From Heaven
The Christian metal label Pure Metal Records signed its share of quality talent during the decade of the eighties, releasing albums by such noteworthy artists as Bride, Saint, Messiah Prophet and Whitecross. Several lesser known – though no less able – groups were part of the label as well: Scarlet Red, Eternal Ryte and Rosanna’s Raiders. Rosanna’s Raiders was a group of particularly merit. Read Full Review >>
TITANIC - Wreckage (The Best Of & The Rest Of)
Now, one of the problems I have with most compilation albums is that they are almost always flawed. What I mean by that is rarely, if ever, have I been completely satisfied with the song selection process of any compilation I have obtained: either a critical track or two ends up missing or several will be included that, in my opinion, should have been left off. With that in mind, how does Wreckage (The Best Of & The Rest Of) measure up? Read Full Review >>
WHITECROSS - Nineteen Eighty Seven
A reunion show at Cornerstone 2002 and several additional live dates, however, helped put in place the foundation for the most recent venture from Carroll and Wenzel: and that is the re-recording Whitecross’ self-titled debut from scratch. The two decided to undertake the project due to not only the fact a high demand still exists for the album, but, similar to Saint’s reason for re-recording its 1984 debut EP Warriors Of The Son, to take advantage of advances in studio technology not available twenty years ago. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
MAIN LINE RIDERS seeking second guitarist:
As announced by guitarist Cliffy Huntington:
“MAIN LINE RIDERS second guitar player position is open, so if you're a real rock 'n' roller who wants to join the band then get up with me. The band's bassist is a great guitar player, so if you're a great rock 'n' roll bassist then get up with me, cuz he can switch over to guitar.
“I'd prefer someone who is 25 to late 30's, but if you're younger than that by a few years, but are mature beyond your years then you'll probably be just fine. You MUST be a follower of Christ who has a genuine desire to travel around the country and the world to spread the Gospel.
“We have a record deal with Retroactive Records- our album is just about to be released (we have copies now and it's available in a few places online, but it'll have a full store release by mid January).
“You must be willing to relocate to the general Houston, Texas area pretty much right away. However, the full time touring life begins in June of this year. Where you keep your belongings once we start touring will be totally up to you. You'll need to figure out your own job and living situation once you get here. You'll be able to crash with one of the band members for a few days, but after that you'll need to have your own situation figured out.
“We'd prefer someone who has a real love for the late 80's sunset strip sounds of bands like GUNS N' ROSES, LA GUNS, FASTER PUSSYCAT and JUNKYARD as well as bands like AC/DC, HANOI ROCKS and CINDERELLA. We also dig KISS and MOTORHEAD.
“It is essential that you be someone who has no hang-ups about playing in the Christian scene or in the secular scene or in no scene at all. We play anywhere, anytime for anyone. If you only want to play for the "cool kids" then this ain't your gig.
“Contact me pronto if you think this is for you.”
MAIN LINE RIDERS online: www.facebook.com/pages/Main-Line-Riders
New Pastor Brad instrumental hard rock project, Shredded Sweet:
Shredded Sweet, the third instrumental metal solo release from Pastor Brad, should hit the shelves in early 2008. The album will feature guest appearances from Jim Griffin, Sonny Lombardozzi, David Jacobs, Matt Eltringham, Art Kalenda, Joe Nardulli and Andy England.
Shredded Sweet track listing (with guest appearances):
1. “Shredded Sweet” (All PB)
2. “Sacred Aggression” (PB, Jim Griffin on bass)
3. “Bed Of Roses” (All PB)
4. “Chunky Monkey” (All PB)
5. “Rolling Thunder” (PB and Sonny Lombardozzi)
6. “Sinai Daydreams” (PB and David Jacob)
7. “Child-like Sweetness” (All PB)
8. “Fire And Ice” (PB and Matt Eltringham)
9. “Memory Lane” (All PB)
10. “Wolfgang's Breath” (PB and Jim Griffin)
11. “Dr. Philgood” (PB and Sonny Lombardozzi)
12. “Soul Life” (PB and Art Kalenda)
13. “Go Irish!” (PB and Joe Nardulli)
14. “Flooded” (PB and Andy England)
The artist is releasing Shredded Sweet in follow up to his previous two instrumental ‘shred’ albums, Reshredded (2006) and Shred (2005).
PASTOR BRAD online: http://pastorbradrocks.com & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks
NEWS BRIEFS
* MEHIDA at work on second album: “The recording of the second MEHIDA album is going on full steam and all the people who liked the approach of the first one can expect the follow up album to be even stronger and more powerful. We'll be working with the album during the spring of 2008, and it should be out in next year or so (still depending on schedules and such).”
* KEN TAMPLIN (SHOUT & MAGDALLAN) plans to put out in the spring of 2008 a covers album entitled Cover To Cover.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Early 2008 update from BRIDE:
The Louisville, Kentucky based group has started work on its next album:
“In the next coming months things here are going to be crazy. The process of writing music for us is an adventure and filled with unimaginable excitement. Troy and I have decided to take the band into a direction that we should have gone a long time ago. When we were growing up there were so many great and talented bands writing memorable, age lasting songs. Bands such as LED ZEPPELIN, AEROSMITH, KANSAS, BLUE OYSTER CULT, BLACK SABBATH, EAGLES, DEEP PURPLE, LYNYRD SKYNRYD, PINK FLOYD, ROLLING STONES, SLADE, ZZ TOP and a big favorite of the band The CULT, which came a long a little later.
“With that said what we hope to do is combine many of the same vibes that we grew up on and produce an intense raw CD which showcases what we do best. And what we do best is play live. Over the years so many people have told us after seeing us in concert that the concerts were so much better than the records we were producing. Not to discredit any of our past producers but it is very hard for (a band on our level) to capture that energy of a live show in the studio. There are too many factors involved.
“But we have learned a few studio tricks over the years and believe we can give our audience the raw essence and the soul of BRIDE.
“The serious writing has already begun. Dale and Troy (Thompson) have been collaborating and will soon bring in Michael Loy on drums and so far they are still searching for the right bassist.
“A plan for a ‘fan financed CD’ is being drafted and once this is complete you will be given the instructions on how to participate inn this venture. As for now, keep BRIDE and their families in your prayers and expect great things (maybe even a tour) for 2008.”
BRIDE online: http://bridepub.com & www.facebook.com/BridebandOn
SCREAM IN EDEN signs with Z Records:
Press Release / Z Records would like to announce their latest signing, Chicago's SCREAM IN EDEN. The band is yet another fine example of excellent melodic hard rock that fans have grown to expect from Z Records. Discovered by Mark Alger (Z Records founder) a few months ago, SCREAM IN EDEN’s debut entitled Original Sin will be released on January 28, 2008 and is essential for fans of TESLA, DOKKEN and BABYLON AD. Featured around the fantastic vocals of Joe Dokken and the guitar work of WHITECROSS axeman Rex Carroll, SCREAM IN EDEN are set to make 2008 their year.
SCREAM IN EDEN got its start in 1991 when it placed the track “Till The End” on the Star Song compilation Brave New World. After shortening its name to Eden, the group independently released its full-length debut, Fan The Flame, in the mid-nineties but a lack of promotion prevented the album from receiving the acclaim and notoriety it deserved. That all changed in 2003, however, when Fan The Flame was digitally re-mastered and re-issued by Retroactive Records with new cover artwork. Early 2008 find the band returning to its original SCREAM IN EDEN moniker for the Z Rock re-issue with new cover artwork. Fast forward to early 2008 and the band has returned to its original SCREAM IN EDEN moniker for the Z Rock re-issue under the new title Original Sin and updated cover artwork.
Original Sin track listing:
1. "Need Somebody"
2. "Show Me"
3. "Morning Star"
4. "Fan The Flame"
5. "Tomorrow’s Yesterday"
6. "Forgotten Child"
7. "Give Me A Reason"
8. “It’s A Shame"
9. "Back To The Garden"
10. "Love Rolls On"
Z Rock Records online: www.z-records.com
TILES releases fifth album, Fly Paper:
Press Release / Fly Paper, the fifth album from the Detrio, Michigan progressive rock group TILES, will be released January 29th on Inside Out/SPV and was produced by Terry Brown, who is noted for his multi-platinum success with RUSH, CUTTING CREW and FATES WARNING. TILES’ previous four releases: Tiles, Fence The Clear, Presents Of Mind, and Window Dressing are available as part of Inside Out Music’s Special Edition series. Each CD features a variety of previously unreleased songs, demos, and bootleg video; expanded packaging, photos, and liner notes; newly mastered audio from the original tapes; and bonus live material. It was 1999’s Presents of Mind that propelled TILES into the mainstream progressive rock scene garnering glowing endorsements from JETHRO TULL's Ian Anderson and DREAM THEATER's Mike Portnoy – culminating in a three week European tour as special guests for DREAM THEATER.”
The following question was presented to TILES guitarist Chris Herin in a 2004 interview with HM Magazine:
What are your thoughts on being known as believers in the world of art? How do you see your faith being fused with your art?
“Well, when you take a look at world history it's obvious how much Christianity has inspired art. So the two have never been mutually exclusive. It's not until the 20th Century that art seemed to gravitate more toward a secular endeavor - maybe as the separation of church and state became increasingly micro-managed. TILES doesn't fit solidly in the Christian rock format since we're not a "praise" band, per se. But my lyrics provide the point of intersection as they tend to reflect biblical principles and philosophy.”
Fly Paper track listing:
1. “Hide In My Shadow”
2. “Sacred & Mundane”
3. “Back & Forth”
4. “Landscape”
5. “Markers”
6. “Dragons, Dreams & Daring Deeds”
7. “Crowded Emptiness”
8. “Hide & Seek”
9. “Passing Notes”
TILES online: www.tiles-music.com/index2.php & www.facebook.com/pages/Tiles
NEWS BRIEFS
* Latest from bassist Michael Bloodgood regarding upcoming worship CD, The Cross Changes Everything: “I wanted to let you know that The Cross Changes Everything (Michael Bloodgood & Friends) just wrapped up tonight. Steve Smith (EAGLES, HEART, VAN HALAN, etc.) was retained to mix the project while Craig and I inundated him with our own observations. Quinton Gibson (SONICFLOOD, PETRA, MICHAEL TATE) will be mastering the album in Franklin, TN. I am very excited about crossing the finishing line after four years. The project will include 14 tracks not including a bonus track.”
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• LINKS
• LABEL NEWS
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
FEATURED REVIEWS
ACTION - Action
Action, as one would expect, delivers a sound heavily rooted in the eighties. Drawing upon the influences of melodic rock, AOR and melodic hard rock, Action is certain to appeal to fans of Journey, Foreigner, Survivor, Boston, AdrianGale, Line Of Fire and a host of others of similar style. On the Christian side of the fence, I can see Action also gaining the interest of those into Shout, Guardian, Novella, Stryper, Mad Max and perhaps even Petra as well. Read Full Review >>
DELIVERANCE - River Disturbance (Collector’s Edition)
River Disturbance, on the other hand, finds Jimmy P. Brown and company heading in polished and subdued hard rock territory but still delivering an ample amount of guitar driven momentum in the process. This is best exhibited on classy mid-tempo hard rockers “Belltown”, “Breathing Still” and the albums reflective title track. Read Full Review >>
KERRY LIVGREN – Collector’s Sedition (Director’s Cut)
Collector’s Sedition (Director’s Cut), the latest solo release from guitarist/keyboardist Kerry Livgren, had its beginnings in the material Livgren put together for Kansas’ 2000 reunion album Somewhere To Elsewhere. Livgren was in a particularly prolific songwriting period at the time when, in a conversation with Kansas drummer Phil Ehart, he mentioned that the new songs he was working on had a Kansas-like feel to them. Read Full Review >>
LORDCHAIN – Finding Balance
Lordchain can best be described as straightforward hard rock and metal with occasional groove and modern undertones. What stands out most about the group is its melodic based songwriting, a penchant it best puts on display throughout Finding Balance. Read Full Review >>
RESURECTION BAND – Rainbow’s End
Resurrection Band came out of the Chicago, Illinois based Jesus People USA community in 1978 with the blues based hard rock its full length debut Awaiting Your Reply. Returning a year later with a more guitar driven follow up effort in Rainbow’s End, Resurrection Band still allows for the acoustic guitar to play a role in its music (check out “Concert For A Queen” and “Every Time It Rains”) while maintaining the blues based elements to its sound as well (“Paint A Picture” comes to mind). Read Full Review >>
ROSANNA’S RAIDERS – Fire From Heaven
The Christian metal label Pure Metal Records signed its share of quality talent during the decade of the eighties, releasing albums by such noteworthy artists as Bride, Saint, Messiah Prophet and Whitecross. Several lesser known – though no less able – groups were part of the label as well: Scarlet Red, Eternal Ryte and Rosanna’s Raiders. Rosanna’s Raiders was a group of particularly merit. Read Full Review >>
TITANIC – Wreckage (The Best Of & The Rest Of)
Now, one of the problems I have with most compilation albums is that they are almost always flawed. What I mean by that is rarely, if ever, have I been completely satisfied with the song selection process of any compilation I have obtained: either a critical track or two ends up missing or several will be included that, in my opinion, should have been left off. With that in mind, how does Wreckage (The Best Of & The Rest Of) measure up? Read Full Review >>
WHITECROSS – Nineteen Eighty Seven
A reunion show at Cornerstone 2002 and several additional live dates, however, helped put in place the foundation for the most recent venture from Carroll and Wenzel: and that is the re-recording Whitecross’ self-titled debut from scratch. The two decided to undertake the project due to not only the fact a high demand still exists for the album, but, similar to Saint’s reason for re-recording its 1984 debut EP Warriors Of The Son, to take advantage of advances in studio technology not available twenty years ago. Read Full Review >>
LINKS
The STRYPER forum has moved to a new location: www.stryperforum.com/forum/index.php
STRYPER goes into detail about its past AND future in a detailed interview at Metal-Rules: www.metal-rules.com/zine/content/view/1189/1
An older interview with former STRYPER bassist Tim Gaines is available as well: www.unstryped.com/media/interviews/tim-gaines-speaks
Tim has also launched a new forum at Yuka called Bass Players Worldwide: www.bassplayersworldwide.yuku.com
LABEL NEWS
Several exciting new releases are on the way from RETROACTIVE RECORDS:
ORACLE, a technical power metal/thrash outfit from Greensboro, North Carolina, will be having its 1992 full length recording, Selah, re-issued with four unreleased bonus tracks.
Also, look for RETROACTIVE to put out a never before released album from HIS WITNESS, a Southern California based group with a melodic metal sound inviting comparison to WHITECROSS, GUARDIAN, WHITE LION and KISS. Mixed by John & Dino Elefante and re-mixed by Bill Menchen (TITANIC, THE SEVENTH POWER).
MySpace: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
*Axis Of Evil, the upcoming BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA album, should hit the shelves next month. The latest news concerning the project was recently offered by founding member Sidney Allen Johnson:
“The new BABYLONN MYSTERY ORCHESTRA CD has now been sent to the pressing plant for production. Check soon for a new song to be added to this site and the MySpace site. The CD itself should be ready for release sometime in February. Here is the full track listing for the CD called Axis Of Evil: 1. Annuit Coeptis 2. We Ride, You Die 3. DevilSpawn (Muhammad's Song) 4. Islam 5. God Given Right 6. Crusader 7. Diabolus Apocalypse 8. Illuminati 9. Novus Ordo Seclorum 10. Xenophobia 11. Martyr (The Patience Of The Saint) 12. Come Drink The Wrath 13. God Damn The Children Of The Beast.”
Official: www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com/home.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/babylonmysteryorchestra
*It appears as if a BARNABAS reunion is in the works. Drummer Kris Klingensmith contributed the latest in regards to a potential recording project from the group in a post at The Manifest (BARNABAS message board):
“It will happen. The who-what-when-where-whys are pretty much up in the air right now, but Mick (Donner- guitars) and I are shuffling stuff back and forth, slowly.
There will be at least one more peep out of us yet. No doubt in my mind now. I want this. If Led Zeppelin can do it, so can we.”
A message from Kris at The Manifest roughly one year ago got the ball rolling about the reunion in question:
“We've been knocking this around pretty much since Michael launched the BARNABAS HomePlanet, and for the first couple years, the thought of a BARNABAS reunion seemed unlikely, but possibly possible. Years flew by like seconds, and although we finally saw the entire BARNABAS Thing released on CD -- and not the way we would've liked it, BTW -- nothing ever happened in BARNABAS Land that pointed towards a reunion. Nothing. BARNABAS players, crew guys and long-lost friends were reunited here on the Manifest Page and we're grateful for that, but the reunion thing never shivered to life. It never did. It wasn't blessed, if you get my drift. I figured it a lost cause a few years ago and I've said this ever since. It's too late. No way. No BARNABAS reunion. Can't happen. Or maybe, or whatever. Or not. Forget it. Forget it. And that's pretty much been my position for the past few years. So I'm street-hiking downtown San Diego recently -- thinking about all this stuff (BARNABAS bugs me. I can't get it outta my head) -- and this simple question floats into my knob like some kind of feathery drillbit: why not say yes? Say yes. It's a dopey little word -- just say it. SAY IT. So I said YES to the possibility of a BARNABAS Thing. Ok. Yes. Yes. It was ok. It actually made sense, sort of. Why not do BARNABAS again? This felt pretty good. I'll email Mick Donner next week and find out what he thinks about this. Here's a cool thing: I didn't email Mick, because he emailed me first, out of the blue. No jive. "What's this reunion stuff?" he asks. "Same as always," I say. "I'll be in Anaheim next week" Mick says. "Let's get together" I say. "Ok" Mick says. So Mick and I get together for the first time in 20 years and it's like nothing has happened or changed. We've agreed to collaborate on a clutch of songs, and we will record them. Nancy says she's in, and I'm waiting to hear from Gary.”
At this point I am uncertain about specifics (i.e.: the status of bassist Gary Mann and guitarist extraordinaire Brian Belew) but will fill everyone in on further details as they arrive.
Further reading: www.leconte.com/barnabas/manifest/viewtopic.php?f=52&t=393 Official: http://leconte.com/barnabas
*An early January e-mail update from BRIDE goes into detail in regards to the bands next CD:
“In the next coming months things here are going to be crazy. The process of writing music for us is an adventure and filled with unimaginable excitement. Troy and I have decided to take the band into a direction that we should have gone a long time ago. When we were growing up there were so many great and talented bands writing memorable, age lasting songs. Bands such as LED ZEPPELIN, AEROSMITH, KANSAS, BLUE OYSTER CULT, BLACK SABBATH, EAGLES, DEEP PURPLE, LYNYRD SKYNRYD, PINK FLOYD, ROLLING STONES, SLADE, ZZ TOP and a big favorite of the band The CULT, which came a long a little later.
With that said what we hope to do is combine many of the same vibes that we grew up on and produce an intense raw CD which showcases what we do best. And what we do best is play live. Over the years so many people have told us after seeing us in concert that the concerts were so much better than the records we were producing. Not to discredit any of our past producers but it is very hard for (a band on our level) to capture that energy of a live show in the studio. There are too many factors involved.
But we have learned a few studio tricks over the years and believe we can give our audience the raw essence and the soul of BRIDE.
The serious writing has already begun. Dale and Troy (Thompson) have been collaborating and will soon bring in Michael Loy on drums and so far they are still searching for the right bassist.
A plan for a "Fan Financed CD" is being drafted and once this is complete you will be given the instructions on how to participate inn this venture.
As for now, keep BRIDE and their families in your prayers and expect great things (maybe even a tour) for 2008.”
Official: www.bridepub.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/bridemusic
*The Cross Changes Everything, the upcoming worship CD from BLOODGOOD bassist Michael Bloodgood, should be released later this month:
“Hey everyone! I wanted to let you know that The Cross Changes Everything (Michael Bloodgood & Friends) just wrapped up tonight. Steve Smith (EAGLES, HEART, VAN HALAN, etc.) was retained to mix the project while Craig and I inundated him with our own observations. Quinton Gibson (SONICFLOOD, PETRA, MICHAEL TATE) will be mastering the album in Franklin, TN. I am very excited about crossing the finishing line after four years. The project will include 14 tracks not including a bonus track. The CD is scheduled for a January release via TAG Artists Group in Nashville. Thanks again to all of you for your hard work and talent. You guys rock! I’ll be organizing a CD release party at Northwest Guitars sometime in February. Stay tuned for more details.”
View the album artwork here.
Official: http://bloodgoodband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/bloodgoodband
*The release of the new DYNASTY album, Warriors Of The King, has been delayed until this spring. Further details to come. Official: www.dynasty.com.br MySpace: www.myspace.com/dynastyheavymetal
*The latest concerning the next FAITH FACTOR album was found in a post at the bands message board:
“We are finishing up pre production work for our album and will hit the studio to start recording hopefully the end of this month. At this time, we do not have a release date. This album is basically a continuation on the EP that was released (last year). The material is straight out power metal while infusing a little prog here and there. The material was written especially with Ski (lead vocals) in mind so you can expect to hear him really push the boundaries. This album will only feature Blaine and myself on guitar. The EP 7-7-07 also featured Jim Alessi on guitar who did a terrific job on some of the solo work. Since Jim's departure, Blaine has taken up the reigns and has done an absolutely outstanding job. You can expect to hear some great things from Blaine on this album as well. You can look forward to things on this album like a 12 minute epic titled "The Passion". That's about all I will release at this time. More to come later.”
Further reading: http://forums.firestream.net/showthread.php?t=17772 Official: www.faithfactorband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/faithfactorrocks
*FOUNTAIN OF TEARS is now being distributed by Nightmare Records:
“FOUNTAIN OF TEARS has signed a worldwide distribution deal with Nightmare Records. Their new album, Fate, contains 12 tracks of female-fronted melodic metal with progressive and gothic overtones. Fate was produced by the Trauma Team (BELIEVER, EARTH CRISIS, LIVING SACRIFICE) in Pennsylvania and mastered by Peter Van't Reit (AFTER FOREVER, SYMPHONY X, STREAM OF PASSION, AYREON, EPICA, THRESHOLD, SAGA, etc.) at FineTune in The Netherlands. The total running time is 55 minutes.”
Official: www.fountainoftears.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/fountainoftears
*An update earlier this month from guitarist Carl Johan Grimmark documented his work with the next projects by NARNIA and DIVINEFIRE:
“At the moment I'm working hard on a bunch of new songs for the next album by NARNIA. There will be some cool details regarding that later on. I'll also be working with DIVINEFIRE on their Farewell album. I will do lead-guitars and final mix of the record.”
Source: www.myspace.com/grimmark
*The sophomore release from the melodic metal outfit HARMONY, recorded in follow up to its 2003 debut Dreaming Awake, will be mixed in February of this year by Pelle Seather at Studio Undergound in Västerås, Sweden. Official: www.harmonymetal.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
*Vocalist Gordon Tittsworth provided the most recent IMAGES OF EDEN news at the bands official home page:
“I am in the middle of writing the 3rd chapter for IMAGES OF EDEN in hopes to start recording later this year for a late 2008/ early 2009 release.
I am very pleased to welcome Chris Lucci to IMAGES OF EDEN. Chris is from the Houston, TX- based progressive-metal band ALL TOO HUMAN and will be recording drums for our 3rd CD. I have been a fan of Chris' playing since the 2003 release of ALL TOO HUMAN’s Entropy. He is the perfect addition to the sound of IOE and I'm very excited about the collaboration!!”
Source: www.imagesofeden.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/imagesofeden
*IMPELLITTERI re-issued its 1995 live recording Live! Fast! Loud! with new artwork and two bonus tracks:
“IMPELLITTERI LIVE! FAST LOUD! CD special edition re-issue with new artwork and 2 bonus tracks! The long out of print Live! Fast! Loud! CD will now be available for ordering en mass once again. The re-issue contains TONS of new unreleased photos and more importantly, 2 NEW bonus tracks. One is "Rat Race" and the other is an ULTRA RARE live acoustic performance of "Power of Love". The "Power of Love-acoustic" track may actually not stay on there long so the ones who order fast will get it.”
Ordering information: www.cafepress.com/impellitteri.114080562 Official: www.rapture.net/impellitteri
*Ontario, Canada based vocalist Thomas Wilson continues to make headway on his upcoming INCARNATE project:
“At this point, I still have to record bass for three songs and vocals for three songs, and I am also waiting for some guitar solos from Jon Hooper (UNFORSAKEN). I hope to at LEAST have the bass tracks done by the end of next week, and hopefully have some of the solos by then as well. I'll try to keep you updated on my progress.
I have recruited a couple other musicians to appear on the album as well: Chris Dickens of MISSION OF ONE has contributed bass tracks for two songs, and Pastor Brad has done guitar solos on a few songs as well.”
You can listen to two new INCARNATE tracks, “Paradise Lost” and “The Sacrifice”, at: www.myspace.com/incarnatemetal
*Glenn Kaiser offered an early January update about the next blues rock project from GLENN KAISER BAND:
“The beginning of next week, GKB will do daily work on each song prospect for the new CD. Roy (Montroy- bass) has again written some brilliant stuff, I've added some and I think we have a great start on this project.”
Official: http://glennkaiser.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/glennkaiserband
*LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE will be covering the old FEAR NOT tune “We Have A God” (from the bands 1993 self-titled debut) on its soon to be released greatest compilation 4-All: The Best Of LNJ. The song even features a guest appearance by original FEAR NOT vocalist Larry Worley. Look for 4-All: The Best Of LNJ to come out on March 28, 2008. Also, you can hear “We Have A God” ins entirety at: www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2 LNJ Official: www.libertynjustice.net
*Houston, Texas based MAIN LINE RIDERS is looking for a second guitarist:
“MAIN LINE RIDERS second guitar player position is open, so if you're a real rock 'n' roller who wants to join the band then get up with me. The band's bassist is a great guitar player, so if you're a great rock 'n' roll bassist then get up with me, cuz he can switch over to guitar.
I'd prefer someone who is 25 to late 30's, but if you're younger than that by a few years, but are mature beyond your years then you'll probably be just fine.
You MUST be a follower of Christ who has a genuine desire to travel around the country and the world to spread the Gospel.
We have a record deal with Retroactive Records, our album is just about to be released (we have copies now and it's available in a few places online, but it'll have it's full store release by mid January).
You must be willing to relocate to the general Houston, Texas area pretty much right away. However... the full time touring life begins in June of this year. Where you keep your belongings once we start touring will be totally up to you.
You'll need to figure out your own job and living situation once you get here. You'll be able to crash with one of the band members for a few days, but after that you'll need to have your own situation figured out.
We'd prefer someone who has a real love for the late 80's sunset strip sounds of bands like GUNS N' ROSES, LA GUNS, FASTER PUSSYCAT and JUNKYARD as well as bands like AC/DC, HANOI ROCKS and CINDERELLA. We also dig KISS and MOTORHEAD.
It is essential that you be someone who has no hangups about playing in the Christian scene or in the Secular scene or in no scene at all. We play anywhere, anytime for anyone. If you only wanna play for the "cool kids" then this ain't your gig.
Contact me pronto if you think this is for you.
later...Cliffy”
MySpace: www.myspace.com/mainlineriders
*The Italian epic power metal band MARTIRIA recently furnished the latest about the progress of its next CD:
“Good news for all our friends: the band is now working to finalize all the vocal parts and the mixing, soon we will be able to give you more up-to-date news about when the new album will be finally available (so I suggest to visit very often this page!).
At the last moment, we decided to ask to our very good friend Fabrizio Lafauci, a very well known name in the Italian music world, to play the drums in this new work.
The album (despite keeping the unmistakable MARTIRIA style) will have a new sound, even more direct and powerful.”
Official: www.martiria.com/news.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/martiria
*Finland's MEHIDA remains hard at work on its sophomore album, which it plans to release next year:
“The recording of the second MEHIDA album is going on full steam and all the people who liked the approach of the first one can expect the follow up album to be even stronger and more powerful. We'll be working with the album during the spring 08, and the second album should be out in next year or so (still depending on schedules and such).”
Official: www.mehida.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/mehida
*I have a couple of line up changes to report in the ORATORIO camp:
“Our long-time drummer Janne has left the band because of his difficult schedule of work. He's a pilot now in a flight company, so he thought that it is best for him to leave the band. His schedule of work is very unpredictable too, so he wasn't able to promise to play the gigs we were asked to perform.
But we are very happy that Janne got the job and we wish him all the God's blessings! :)
Also our long time guitarist Jarmo has decided to leave the band too. He'll be working as a priest in Padasjoki (Finland), and this means that he has a job that binds him to be at work usually on weekends. This is very difficult for the band because the gigs and rehearsals are taking place mainly on weekends.
Jarmo has not completely quit Oratorio, he's remaining as a honour-member and will be helping the band in some other way :)
So, Oratorio is looking for new members now. You will be informed when the band has the new members.”
Line-up at end of 2007:
Joel - Vocals
Thomas - Guitar
Ilpo - Guitar
Official: http://oratoriometal.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/risingoratorio
*Grrr Records re-issued RESURRECTION BAND's 1979 sophomore album Rainbow’s End. A review is currently online. Ordering information: www.grrrrecords.com/store/index.cfm?fuseaction=product.display&Product_ID=65
*In other RESURRECTION BAND news, Grrr Records plans to also re-issue the groups 1992 double live album Twenty Years later this summer:
“I've seen bits of the expected digitized footage from REZ XX Years Live and Tom indeed thinks Grrr Records will release it just prior to our Cornerstone Festival. You can go to the Cornerstone Fest website for all related information on the fest. REZ will do a full reunion set, GKB will also play.”
Further reading: www.glennkaiser.com/blog.htm
*A recent press release announced the signing of the Atlanta based hard rock outfit RIZER to Raging Storm Records:
Progressive rock band RIZER is currently finishing up their debut CD to be released in 2008 on Raging Storm Records. Formed in 2000 and originally called NURTED IN PURPLE, RIZER was first recognized by platinum recording artist Michael Sweet who expressed interest in producing the band.
Originally located in the Boston, MA and Providence RI areas, RIZER has shared the stage with notable bands such as KING’S X and GREAT WHITE in 2002. Members Nick Washburn and Troy Winston relocated to Orlando, FL for 3 years where the drum throne seemed to have a revolving door on it. However In 2006 they found themselves In the Atlanta area where they found drummer Jeremy Wolfe which brought much stability to the band and resulted in numerous shows, including a label showcase at GMA Nashville in 2007.
Nick Washburn (guitars/vocals), Troy Winston (bass), and Jeremy Wolfe (drums) say this is the most exciting chapter for the band with a full length debut in the works and big stages lining up on the calendar. The songwriting is stronger than ever, and Raging Storm Records is providing the stability and support. Watch for their debut CD for a 2008 release!
Samples and further reading: www.myspace.com/rizermusic
*SAINT will be accepting pre-orders for its upcoming album in the near future. The cover artwork should be available soon as well. Further details: http://saintsite.com
*A new album from 7 DAYS, the Swedish power/progressive outfit that released its debut The Weight Of The World in 2006, is expected to be out by the fall of this year. No title as of yet but I will keep everyone posted as further details come in. Official: www.sigfridsson.net/7days/default.html
*The next SEVENTH AVENUE CD, Terium, is scheduled for release on March 28, 2008. Again, more details as they become available. Official: www.seventh-avenue.de MySpace: www.myspace.com/seventhavenue12345
*Murder By Pride is the working title of the new STRYPER album. An article about the band at New Man eMagazine provides further insight:
“Today the members (of STRYPER) have rededicated their lives to Christ and recorded their second new album since reuniting in 2003. The band, consisting of brothers Michael and Robert Sweet, Richard "Oz Fox" Martinez and a new bassist, Tracy Ferrie, will release the new project, tentatively titled Murder by Pride, this summer, with a U.S. and possible overseas tour to follow.”
Vocalist Michael Sweet furnishes his thoughts about the meaning behind the albums title:
"Sometimes we are murdered by our pride, and our own pride overtakes everything else in our life and we are blinded to that," Michael Sweet said. "So many times our pride overtakes what we are supposed to do as believers."
You can read the full article here.
A post by Michael at the STRYPER Forum updates the progress the band is making on Murder By Pride:
“As far as the new STRYPER record goes - I'm still tracking vocals in my studio and we plan to start mixing by the first week in February. We should be finished mixing by the end of February and then we'll master, do a photo shoot and then the rest will be up to artwork department at Big3 to put it all together and package it. I'm not confirming anything but I'd say it should be out July or August and of course a tour will follow later in the year. I know that some of you were expecting a release sooner but things have transpired that are out of our control and I can assure you that it will be worth the wait. The record sounds amazing and it will have everything that you've always wanted a STRYPER record to have - melodies, guitar solos, stacked vocal harmonies and screams. Sonically, it's our best to date. It's a very edgy record yet at the same time it retains it's melodic sense. I'll keep you updated as we progress.”
Further reading: www.stryperforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=360
*KEN TAMPLIN (SHOUT & MAGDALLAN) plans to release a new album, Cover To Cover, later this spring. Also, the discography page at Ken’s website now includes free MP3 downloads of all his solo releases, both SHOUT albums and the MAGDALLAN album as well: www.kentamplin.com/index2.php?page=discography
*The Detroit, Michigan based progressive rock group TILES will be putting out its fifth album, Fly Paper, on January 29, 2008:
“TILES’ fifth album Fly Paper will be released January 29th on Inside Out/SPV and was produced by Terry Brown, who is noted for his multi-platinum success with RUSH, CUTTING CREW and FATES WARNING. TILES’ previous four releases: Tiles, Fence The Clear, Presents Of Mind, and Window Dressing are available as part of Inside Out Music’s Special Edition series. Each CD features a variety of previously unreleased songs, demos, and bootleg video; expanded packaging, photos, and liner notes; newly mastered audio from the original tapes; and bonus live material. It was 1999’s Presents of Mind that propelled TILES into the mainstream progressive rock scene garnering glowing endorsements from JETHRO TULL's Ian Anderson and DREAM THEATER's Mike Portnoy – culminating in a three week European tour as special guests for DREAM THEATER.”
The following question was presented to TILES guitarist Chris Herin in a 2004 interview with HM Magazine:
What are your thoughts on being known as believers in the world of art? How do you see your faith being fused with your art?
“Well, when you take a look at world history it's obvious how much Christianity has inspired art. So the two have never been mutually exclusive. It's not until the 20th Century that art seemed to gravitate more toward a secular endeavor - maybe as the separation of church and state became increasingly micro-managed. TILES doesn't fit solidly in the Christian rock format since we're not a "praise" band, per se. But my lyrics provide the point of intersection as they tend to reflect biblical principles and philosophy.”
You can read the full interview here.
Official: www.tiles-music.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/tilesmusic
*VENIA, another talented band out of Finland, offered a recent updated in regards to the progress of its next album, untitled at the time of this writing:
“Unfortunately we had to stop mixing for now as the drums still need a lot of editing to get them to sound good. Because of the Christmas holidays we won't be able to continue mixing before in the beginning of January, but at least the drums will sound a lot better than they would if we would rush things.”
Official: http://veniaband.com
*Greg Bishop (guitars) and Rex Scott (vocals) should have the final mix of the new X-SINNER album, World Covered In Blood (changed from Back In Red), completed by mid-January of 2008. Also, the band requests that you continue to send in your album cover concepts as well. Official: http://x-sinner.org MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
