LINKS
ALTAR is a new power/progressive metal band out of Costa Rica: www.myspace.com/altarmetal
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
ENDLESS FUNERAL released by Unforsaken Productions:
Attention ENDLESS FUNERAL fans: A Second Beginning now on CD! Until now, you could only get it as MP3s... but finally, Martin Pleau's ENDLESS FUNERAL, A Second Beginning is getting a second beginning!
Mastered and released on CD by Unforsaken Productions, A Second Beginning by ENDLESS FUNERAL is NOW AVAILABLE online through the Unforsaken Productions Online Store. Visit www.unforsaken.ca/UPOS/main.html to order.
*The sound is cleaner and tighter than ever!
*Contains full artwork, including cover art by Jon Hooper.
*Great price: only $10.00 CAD / $8.50 USD (+S&H)
Samples: www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=86006
Retroactive Records to re-issue FIRES OF BABYLON:
Retroactive Records is set to release the self-titled debut album by all-Star heavy metal band FIRES OF BABYLON. Already released in Europe, the album is only available as a pricey import. The USA release date is Tuesday January 27th, 2009.
FIRES OF BABYLON is classic 1980's-style, shredding U.S. heavy metal reincarnated! Their lineup is one of highly skilled and lauded musicians, including guitarist Lou St. Paul (WINTERS BANE), vocalist Rob Rock (IMPELITTERRI), bassist Kelly Conlon (ex-DEATH), and drummer Robert Falzano (SHATTER MESSIAH).
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 Redivivus, the owner of Metal Heaven Records asked St. Paul to write the material and put together a band to record a classic 80's metal album – and FIRES OF BABYLON is the result.
Powerhouse vocalist Rob Rocks's extensive discography includes classic albums with IMPELLITTERRI, WARRIOR, AXEL RUDI PELL, and M.A.R.S., PROJECT: DRIVER. Rob has recorded three excellent solo albums ( Rage Of Creation, Eyes Of Eternity, and Holy Hell ), and his latest opus, Garden Of Chaos, has just been released.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/firesofbabylon ShoutLife: www.shoutlife.com/profile_view.cfm?uid=109371
INTERVIEWS
THEOCRACY – Matt Smith
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 >>
LINKS
*BARREN CROSS has a new MySpace page: www.myspace.com/barrencrossmusic
*JACOBS LADDER is the new band of Matt Harding (APOSTLE): www.myspace.com/thejacobsladder3
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
IMPELLITTERI announces 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”
Look for Wicked Maiden, the first collaboration between vocalist Rob Rock and guitarist Chris Impellitteri since the 2000 IMPELLITTERI release Crunch, to come out on February 25, 2009 in Japan.
Official: www.impellitterifanclub.info MySpace: www.myspace.com/impellitteri2008
INCARNATE details revealed:
Unforsaken Productions (Canada) announces the release of the debut full-length CD by INCARNATE. This self-titled CD is now available online for worldwide sale through the Unforsaken Productions website: www.unforsaken.ca
A heavy metal project featuring UNFORSAKEN vocalist Thomas Wilson, the album 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.
Official: www.unforsaken.ca/Incarnate/main.html Samples: www.unforsaken.ca/Incarnate/samples/inc/inc.html Ordering information: www.unforsaken.ca/UPOS/main.html
Retroactive Records to re-issue 1992 full length debut from ORACLE, Selah. Owner Matt Hunt offers further detail in a recent online interview:
"Re-issues are very, very hard to do these days. There are bands like ARSENAL, APOSTLE, FORCE 3, 100% PROOF, XALT, WATCHMEN, KNIGHTRIOT, THRESHER, and PARADOX that we would LOVE to work with, but the band members refuse, or won't follow through on important things that we need done. We would also love to reissue albums by MESSIAH, but we can't find the members anywhere! I have spent hours and hours working on deals with the people who own Star Song, Sparrow, and Word back catalogs, but in the end, there's too much risk or they are not set up to do licensing deals. If the DELIVERANCE reissues sell well, we will consider reissuing more of their titles. Other than that, a new ORACLE reissue with new artwork and bonus tracks is slated for early 2009, and that's about it. If you want to consider the re-releases of TITANIC (Maiden Voyage), TITANIC (Screaming In Silence), and FINAL AXE (Beyond Hell's Gate) remixed with Robert Sweet (STRYPER) on drums reissues, then those will probably see life at the end of 2009."
Further reading: HERE
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
New MENCHEN CD, Red Rock, released on Retroactive Records:
Retroactive Records has announced the release of the debut album from MENCHEN, entitled Red Rock. The LP 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.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/menchenmusik
Ulterium Records to re-issue Southgate by SEVENTH AVENUE:
The German power metal band SEVENTH AVENUE will have their classic album Southgate from 1998 re-issued by Ulterium Records early next year. 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!
SEVENTH AVENUE – Southgate line-up:
Herbie Langhans – Vocals, Guitars
Andi Gutjahr – Guitars
Willian Hieb – Bass
Mike Pfluger – Drums
The release date for Southgate is set to January 23rd, 2009 world-wide. The album can already be ordered through the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com
Check out a sample track from Southgate at: www.myspace.com/ulteriumrecords
Official: http://www.seventh-avenue.de
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• LINKS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
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 >>
LINKS
*Three new songs, “Warriors Of The King”, “Brighter Than The Sun” and “Master Of Disguise”, off the upcoming DYNASTY album Warriors Of The King can be heard at: www.myspace.com/dynastyheavymetal
*FAITH FACTOR has launched a new website: www.faithfactorband.com
*PASTOR BRAD uploaded a Christmas shred metal video entitled “Oh Little Town Of Bethlehem” to YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4t7FjpkDklI
*The latest in regards to the progress of the next STRANGELAND album can be found at the MySpace Blog of vocalist Jeremy Ray: http://blog.myspace.com/strangevox
THREAD OF THE MONTH
Instead of just one thread I thought it would be interesting to focus on five threads last month at the Christian Metal Realm discussing the best Christian metal releases from 1990-1994: 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993 and 1994.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
UK based BACK POCKET PROPHET plays a blend of metal, hard rock and thrash:
Formed in late 2003 just out side of Oxford in the UK, BACK POCKET PROPHET is a band on a mission. We are out to play heavy music with a positive message, to bring the light into the darkness and, importantly, to have fun while doing it.
Described as a fusion of hard rock, classic metal and thrash, BPP are a band not to miss. BPP made a storming debut appearance at the 2007 Greenbelt Meltdown stage and are tipped for a great future. 2008 sees the boys beginning work on their second EP and with gigs already lined up for Greenbelt and Meltdown and first time visits to Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Green Light District Festival in Denmark.
BPP lists AC/DC, DIRE STRAITS, IMPELLITTERI, IRON MAIDEN, METALLICA, MORTIFICATION, PANERA, P.O.D., SINNAI BEACH, SOULFLY AND THIN LIZZY as its influences.
BPP line up:
Adam Gough – Guitars & Lead Vocals
Tom "Danger" Power - Drums
Vic Barton - Bass
Official: http://backpocketprophet.com/mainfs.htm MySpace: www.myspace.com/backpocketprophet
EDEN’S WAY to release new album, EW4:
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: a 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.
You can listen to three songs off the album, “Shout”, “All I Need” and “I Live For You”, at the bands MySpace page: www.myspace.com/edenswayband
EW4 is currently available for pre-order: www.souljoyrecords.com/edens_way.htm
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.
Official: http://edenswayband.com
LOU GRAMM signs with Spectra Records:
The new Christian CD from Lou 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.
Lou went into 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."
Official: www.lougramm.com
Guitarist JON HOOPER (UNFORSAKEN) re-issues 2004 instrumental solo album Doorways To Other Worlds. The artist offers further commentary:
“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.”
Track Listing: “Grind” (3:41), “The Journey” (3:20), “Radio Intro” (0:44), “The Final Battle” (2:41), “Frozen In Time” (1:52), “Industrial Groove” (2:01), “Radial Boogie” (2:32), “War Machine” (3:05)
Samples: www.unforsaken.ca/Jon/discography/doorways.html Ordering information: www.unforsaken.ca/UPOS/main.html
Sweden’s MAJESTIC VANGUARD provided a recent 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.
Official: www.majesticvanguard.net/site.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/majesticvanguard
He’s Not Dead, debut release from SIN DIZZY, re-issued by Girder Music:
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.
Official: www.sindizzy.com Ordering information: HERE MySpace: www.myspace.com/sindizzy
Debut CD from STATIC FUSE released. Vocalist Redd Sonia furnishes additional detail at the Christian Metal Realm:
Wanted to let you know that the debut album from STATIC FUSE is NOW available for order!
Who is STATIC FUSE you ask?
STATIC FUSE is an online collaboration between myself and (guitarist) Ian Keith Hafner. STATIC FUSE comes at ya' strong with in your face and heartfelt lyrics, rockin' female lead vocals and harmonies (delivered by myself) and kicken' guitar solos brought to you courtesy of Ian.
If you are a fan of "old school metal" such as REZ BAND, BRIDE and WHITECROSS, than you will love STATIC FUSE.
So stop by our MySpace page and give a listen: www.myspace.com/staticfuse
If you would like to purchase our CD, then please visit our official page: www.staticfuse.com
SWEET CRYSTAL is a melodic rock/AOR group out of Canton, Michigan:
“Weve always wanted to reach the world with our music, and the Internet has become our passport”, exclaims SWEET CRYSTALs lead singer/keyboardist Marq Q Speck.
Nightcrier Music has released the first CD (from 2001) from rock band SWEET CRYSTAL on its independent music label solely on the Internet. (The CD is also available at CD Baby.) Taking advantage of the webs worldwide reach, the CD 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.
“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
MySpace: www.myspace.com/sweetcrystalrocks Samples: http://cdbaby.com/cd/sweetcrystal
X-SINNER announces release of new album, World Covered In Blood:
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...
Official: x-sinner.org/about_us.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
ZEPHANIAH heads in power metal territory on 2008 full length debut Stories From The Book Of Metal:
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
Official: www.zephaniahmetal.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/zephaniahband
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
An update was recently provided by BRIDE:
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.
In December 16th 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.
Official: www.bridepub.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/bridemusic
Guitarist Joshua Perahia discusses the next JOSHUA album, Resurrection, in 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.
Further reading: HERE
Official: www.joshuaperahia.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/joshuaperahia
PASTOR BRAD announces track listing to new CD, Heavenly Shred. He offers further detail in a thread at 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.
Track Listing: “Oh Little Town of Bethlehem”, “O Come O Come Emmanuel”, “Deck The Halls”, “Silent Night”, “Joy to the World”, “Nothing But the Blood”, “Holy Holy Holy”, “I'll Fly Away”, “Oh How I Love Jesus”, “Carol of the Bells”, “Christian Metal Realm”, “Psalm 33:3”, “God of Wonder” (a parody of KISS' "God of Thunder)
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
I'm taking prerelease orders at: www.guitarjams.net 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.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/guitarjams
SHADOW GALLERY mourns passing of lead vocalist:
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.
Official: www.shadowgallery.com/inmemoryof.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/officialshadowgalle
LABEL NEWS
Release dates of DELIVERANCE re-issues announced by Retroactive Records:
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
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), “Attack” (bonus)
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.
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)
Deliverance MySpace: www.myspace.com/thebigdlives Retroactive MySpace: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
FAITH FACTOR announces track listing to new album, Against A Darkened Sky:
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!
The track listing for the album is as follows:
“Evila Si Eh”
“Keep It True”
“The Rapture”
“In God's Shadow”
“In Remembrance”
“Light Replaces Darkness”
“Armor Of God”
“Divine Temptation”
“Ascend Unto Heaven”
“Sinner's Prayer”
NOTE: 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.
Official: www.faithfactorband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/faithfactorstreetteam
Ulterium Records to re-issue Dreaming Awake by HARMONY:
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.
You can listen to songs from both HARMONY albums at: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
Look for the new IMPELLITTERI album, Good And Evil, to come out in early 2009. Vocalist Rob Rock offers further insight in a recent online interview:
“We are mixing the album right now and it sounds great! It's the sound of Chris and Rob again and the album has some great guitar riffs and massive vocals. The album has a lot of colors to it, but it's definitely the IMPELLITTERI sound you expect when I'm singing and writing with Chris. I did all the vocals here in Florida so that's a little different than we used to do but...technology has progressed so we were able to record the band in California, the vocals in Florida and mix in Canada with Greg Realy. Release will be sometime in early 2009 in Japan I think, but no official date yet”
Further reading: HERE
Australia’s TERAMAZE to record third full length album:
TERAMAZE will be entering the studio on November 12, 2008 to begin work on their third full length album. Guitarist Jeff Waters (ANNIHILATOR) will be making the trip “down under” to produce the album, which will be mixed in Ottawa, Canada.
TERAMAZE plans to release the album, untitled at the time of this writing, in early 2009.
Check the TERAMAZE MySpace page for updates and studio progress: www.myspace.com/teramaze
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• LINKS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
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 >>
LINKS
*Detonation is a fanzine focusing on the UK Christian hard music scene: www.detonation.meltdownmusic.co.uk
*Check out the official DRIVER MySpace page: www.myspace.com/driverofficial
*You can now listen to samples from the new INCARNATE project: www.unforsaken.ca/Incarnate/samples/inc/inc.html
*An article about STRYPER vocalist Michael Sweet is currently online at Christian Music Planet: www.christianmusicplanet.com/news/stories/11580906/
*“On Eagles Wings”, a new song off the upcoming THEOCRACY album Mirror Of Souls, can be downloaded at:
www.theocracymusic.com/mp3/OnEaglesWings.mp3
*A teaser trailer from Mirror Of Souls is available as well; www.theocracymusic.com/mp3/TheocracyMirrorofSoulsTeaser.mov
THREAD OF THE MONTH
You will find some interesting historical information about MESSIAH PROPHET in a thread entitled, appropriately, “The History Of MESSIAH PROPHET” at the Christian Metal Realm. Further reading: HERE
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
Christian Liljegren has a new album from AUDIOVISION planned:
I have joined forces with my brother SIMEON LILJEGREN again. 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.
Look for Christian to also put out a solo album and participate on the upcoming sophomore release from 7 DAYS:
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.
CMS Official: www.rivelrecords.com
Sydney Allen Johnson provided a recent BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA update:
I have actually been working on material for a fifth BMO CD. As I have indicated in some interviews, I intend for it to cover a variety of subjects and not be built around a single theme. So far I am sticking to that. But I am also getting very eager to start the sixth CD, that will bring a return to the "concept" record. Lets face it...I like that format and it just seems easier for me to stay focused on the work that way.
Also, Maltkross Productions, located in France, is releasing a cassette version of Axis Of Evil. It is an authorized version that is cassette only with different artwork. Hopefully it will draw more interest to both BMO and the important issues dealt with on the recording.
Official: www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com/home.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/babylonmysteryorchestra
A new album is in the works from Finland’s HB:
HB is recording a new album which is made in Petrax, Villvox, Soundtrack, Headline and Finnvox studios! The album contains 10 songs and it is supposed to be published in Maata Näkyvissä Festival in Turku. A single from the album will be available in netstores in October.
Also shirts and a new website in both Finnish and English will come soon!
Official: www.hbmusic.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/hbmetal
Eonian Records will soon be releasing the demo material of the eighties melodic metal band LEGACY:
“I’m thinking about managing a band.” Eric Adams said to Matt Rice on September 17, 1987. That evening Matt and his brother John, along with drummer Matt Reedy, met guitarist Fred Blanchard and Doug Meacham at Eric’s house in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Matt was a guitar player and John played bass. Eric had previously called Fred, the younger brother of one of his friends, to see if he had any leads on singers for a band. Fred said that his band, CROSS, had just broken up that day and that he and lead singer Doug were looking to start a new band.
Further reading: http://eonianrecords.com/b10/b10.html
NOTE: LEGACY placed the tracks “Cross The Line” and “What A World” on the Heavy Righteous Metal: Chapter II and Brave New Music compilations respectively. The group was later offered recording contracts with both Pure Metal Records and Star Song but never ended up making an album with either label. LEGACY, who opened for the likes of SACRED WARRIOR and RESURRECTION BAND, is also renowned for taking second place in the New Band Showcase at the Cornerstone Festival in 1989.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/legacycolumbus
KERRY LIVGREN plans 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.
Official: www.numavox.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/kerrylivgren
Legendary blues rocker DARRELL MANSFIELD is back with a highly anticipated new CD entitled Born To Be Wild:
The 16 track CD was produced and recorded by three-time Dove award winner Ken Tamplin of SHOUT and MAGDALLEN.
"Born To Be Wild is a smorgasbord of fabulously recorded songs from the 60's and 70's with the brilliant sense of humor Darrell has been know for. Songs such as ZZ Top's "Tush" (now "Just Lookin' For A Church") and the ever famous "Low Rider" (now "Backslider"). This is a compilation of music that only a seasoned veteran like Darrell could deliver, and he does so with virtuosity and authority.
Darrell Mansfield was accompanied by world-renowned musicians such as: Drummer Jimmy Paxson (currently the drummer for Stevie Nicks and Alanis Morrisette), keyboardist Eduardo Roth (keyboardist for Jessica Simpson and Maya), Bass Player Howard Branch (Sting, Elton John and Robbie Williams).
Darrell's music has touched audiences for over 3 decades. His story of recovery and victory over some of life's greatest challenges is an inspiration and testimony to us all.
Official: www.darrellmansfield.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/darrellmansfield
ORATORIO has recruited a new bass player in Lauri Joutsiniemi:
We have found the suitable bass player for ORATORIO. He is 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 for awhile, 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.
Official: www.oratoriometal.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/risingoratorio
SACRED WARRIOR has reunited to record a new CD:
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 CD "will be one of our heaviest discs yet. It is hard yet still has the 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.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/sacredwarrior777
STAIRWAY continues to make progress on its next album:
We shall be going back into the studio the studio to continue recording the new album. We have whittled down the new tunes and everything is going well. We are very excited with what has been done so far. It is still early and it has been hard work fitting recording in with the shows we have had.
We hope to see you next year at the shows we have coming up.
Official: http://homepage.virgin.net/stairway.deoduce/news.htm MySpace: www.myspace.com/stairway
A studio report recently came in from VENIA in regards to its latest recording project:
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!
The band has even decided upon the new album artwork as well:
I 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.
Official: www.veniaband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/veniaband
LABEL NEWS
Look for the following exciting new releases to come out on Retroactive Records by the end of the year:
October 2008
• DELIVERANCE – Deliverance + 2
• DELIVERANCE - Weapons Of Our Warfare + 1
• FAITH FACTOR - Against A Darkened Sky
Progressive/power metal with high end vocals in the vein of SACRED WARRIOR, RECON and early JACOBS DREAM.
December 2008
• MENCHEN - Red Rock
Progressive hard rock/metal featuring Bill Menchen (SEVENTH POWER, FINAL AXE, TITANIC), Tony Franklin (WHITESNAKE, ALICE COOPER, THE FIRM), Robert Sweet (STRYPER) and Ken Redding (HIS WITNESS).
MySpace: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
HARMONY Chapter II: Aftermath North American release date announced:
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.
Chapter II: Aftermath was mixed by Pelle Saether (A.C.T, DARKWATER). Guests on the album were made by Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON, HEED) and Kristoffer Gildenlöw (ex. PAIN OF SALVATION).
Samples from the album can be found at the HARMONY MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
Germany’s MAD MAX has a new album, Here We Are, in the works:
It's time to celebrate 25 years of MAD MAX with a brand new album 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!
See you all on tour in January and February 2009 (dates will be posted on Monday).
MySpace: www.myspace.com/madmaxmusic
THEOCRACY Mirror Of Souls North American release date announced:
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.
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).
The album artwork as well as the second track off the album, "On Eagles' Wings," can be found at the THEOCRACY MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
THEOCRACY official: www.theocracymusic.com
X-SINNER has put the finishing touches on its soon to be released album, World Covered In Blood:
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 from both of our x-sinner sites (MySpace and .com). 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!!!
X-Sinner Official: www.x-sinner.org X-Sinner MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
LINKS
A new song, “A Salt Mine”, has been added to the MENCHEN MySpace page: www.myspace.com/menchenmusik
Cross Rhythms is home to an insightful article about the V-RATS: www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/VRats
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
THEOCRACY Mirror Of Souls details revealed:
The new THEOCRACY album, Mirror Of Souls, will be released November 26th in Japan by Soundholic Records. The Japanese version will contain the bonus track “Wages Of Sin”, exclusive for this release. Release dates for Europe and North America will be announced soon.
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).
The album artwork as well as the second track off the album; “On Eagles’ Wings”, can be found at the bands MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
Theocracy Official: www.theocracymusic.com
X-SINNER offered a recent update in regards to its upcoming project, World Covered In Blood:
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. Two more songs from the album - "That Ain't Me" and "Who's Your Friend" - are now being showcased on the Image Records MySpace site to tide everybody over who have been waiting patiently for the new CD (some not so patiently! ) to come out. Image will probably start taking presale orders next week too and utilize PayPal as the means to purchase the CD from all you fans.
Image Records MySpace: www.myspace.com/imagerecords07 X-Sinner Official: www.x-sinner.org X-Sinner MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
LINKS
*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
*Midlothian, Texas based SORROWS JOY delivers progressive metal with a classic feel on its 2008 full length debut Fallow Ground. Samples can be heard at: www.myspace.com/mysorrowsjoy
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
D.O.G.S. OF PRAY is a new six piece theatrical Gothic metal project out of Nashville:
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.
The group recently put out its full length debut The Rise… on Ana Records:
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 can be purchased at: www.bruceallenmusic.com/anaartists/dogsofpray.html. The entire CD is also available on iTunes.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/dogsofpray
HARMONY Chapter II: Aftermath details revealed:
The new HARMONY album Chapter II: Aftermath will be released in Europe on October 31, 2008. 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.
Samples from Chapter II: Aftermath as well as the album cover artwork have been posted at the bands official MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
Chapter II: Aftermath can be pre-ordered at: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com
NEAL MORSE to release new progressive rock CD, Lifeline, on October 1, 2008:
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. But where do you go from Beyond?
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…
Official: www.nealmorse.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/nealmorse
NARNIA announces new vocalist, Germán Pascual:
Finally - the day has come!
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.
Welcome Germán, and thanks for joining us!
NARNIA MySpace: www.myspace.com/narniaofficial Germán Pascual MySpace: www.myspace.com/germanpascual
LINKS
*MENAHEM, a talented power/progressive metal outfit from Brazil, recently released its full length debut Angels And Shadows. Samples: www.myspace.com/menahemband Lyrics: www.metal-archives.com/release.php?id=193825
*SILOAM drummer Brian Lutes has launched a new website: www.brianlutes.com
*The Southern California based glam metal outfit SPECTRA uploaded its late eighties two song demo to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/christianglam
*WHISPERS FROM HEAVEN is a dark symphonic progressive metal project from North Carolina (the band lists its influences as Dream Theater, Shadow Gallery, Opeth and Epica): www.myspace.com/whisperfromheaven
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
The Finnish hair metal band DESYRE is currently at work on its first full length album entitled Warning Of The Night:
“DESYRE is scheduled to record the drums for the new full length CD in the middle of July. If you've been monitoring the news and rumors around the DESYRE camp, you already know that the title will be Warning Of The Night.
Ten songs have been chosen by the band and judging from the audience's reactions, they will work nicely.”
Additional details are available at the bands studio Blog: http://studio.desyre777.com/#home
DESYRE hit the scene in September of 2004 with its debut EP Hair Metal Madness before following up in early 2006 with the demo Out Of The Blue Into The Red.
Official: www.desyre777.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/desyre777
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• LINKS
• LABEL NEWS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
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 >>
LINKS
*JESUS ROCK LEGENDS is a blog offering reviews and thoughts on the legends of Christ centered rock, Jesus Movement and CCM (featured artists include Servant, Rez Band and DeGarmo & Key): http://jrocklegends.wordpress.com
*ROB ROCK discusses his upcoming projects with IMPELLITTERI and DRIVER in a recent in-depth interview with Metal-Zen: www.metal-zen.com/2008/08/03/rob-rock
*A video of STRYPER’s “Honestly” (taken from the Greatest Hits: Live In Puerto Rico DVD) can be downloaded at iTunes for $1.99: www.apple.com/search/ipoditunes/?q=stryper
*Australia’s TERAMAZE uploaded three new demo tracks, “Machine”, “Spectator” & “Through The Madness”, to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/teramaze
*TILES has made available an extended version of its song “Hide & Seek” (off Fly Paper): www.myspace.com/tilesmusic
LABEL NEWS
Retroactive Records announces release date of Kingdom Come by HIS WITNESS:
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.
Samples: www.myspace.com/wearehiswitness
THREAD OF THE MONTH
The Christian Metal Realm is home to an insightful discussion about Christian bands that sound like QUEENSRYCHE. Comparisons, of course, include SACRED WARRIOR, RECON, SCARLET RAYNE, early JACOBS DREAM, FAITH FACTOR and VENI DOMINE. Further reading HERE.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
EDEN’S WAY added a new member to its line up in bassist Scott Atchley:
“After searching for a bass player, God has finally worked everything out to allow Scott Atchley to come back and join with us again. GOD is awesome. We searched and found no one. Thought of putting Dave (Underwood) back on the bass (since he was the original bassist), but God stepped in and has fixed health issues with Scott and now he's back.”
The bands roster now consists of:
Dave Underwood – Lead Vocals & Keyboards
Jacob Veal – Guitars
Scott Atchley – Bass
Steve Workman - Drums
EDEN’S WAY is currently at work on material for its next studio album.
Official: http://edenswayband.com/main.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/edenswayband
More HARMONY samples are now online:
The Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY has posted more samples from their recently released EP End Of My Road: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
The EP contains three songs off the up-coming full-length album Chapter II: Aftermath (scheduled for release this fall) in addition to two exclusive tracks. End Of My Road can be ordered at the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com
Vocalist Gordon Tittsworth offered a recent updated in regards to the next IMAGES OF EDEN album:
“Well, Chris (Lucci) started recording drums for the new CD in Texas last week so we're finally on our way. Once he completes the drums, we'll get started on rhythm guitar here in Pennsylvania. So far, so good....
Pushing the maximum 80 minute time limit (without having to do a "double CD"), Rebuilding The Ruins is a full concept CD that picks up where Sunlight of the Spirit left off. The last few years have been a major growing and learning experience for me and I really feel this is conveyed through the new material. Because of this, I can honestly say that this release will be well above and beyond "Spirit". It seemed as if the music (and lyrics) for the entire CD quickly poured out from an open inspirational flood gate. There will be a few guest musicians on this release (too soon to mention- still working out details) as well as a remake of a progressive metal classic.”
Official: www.imagesofeden.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/imagesofeden
Guitarist Dale Burton has left LETTER 7 to reorganize TYKKÜS. Dale goes into further detail in a thread 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.
Anyway enjoy the "teaser" by clicking on the links provided. The first lead is done by me, and Justin Frear is finishing up the solo section. You can tell our two styles to a "T" which adds to the color indeed. Keep us in your prayers CMR members as TYKKÜS picks up and forges ahead in the Lord and His plans. If you're a MySpace member, stop by and say hi.”
Please note that replacing Dale in LETTER 7 is Sebastian Luciano, who has previously worked with Lita Ford.
You can hear the “teaser” in question at: www.myspace.com/tykkus Further reading: HERE
Official: www.letter7rocks.com & www.tykkus.com
ORPHAN PROJECT has signed with Open Grave Records:
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 Official: www.orphanfound.com/home.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/orphanproject Open Grave Official: www.opengraverecords.com/home.html
A recent press release from RIVERA BOMMA updates everyone in regards to its up next album, Angels & Demons:
RIVERA BOMMA is still rockin' & rolling! We will keep you posted (with the latest news) in the coming weeks & (add) some sound bites of songs from Angels & Demons. Please keep us on your prayers.
Look for Angels & Demons to be released Independently in the U.S.A. late fall of this year. No licensing/distribution deals have been sign yet for release outside of the U.S. Any labels seriously interest can contact RIVERA BOMMA at: riverabomma@yahoo.com
In other RIVERA BOMMA news, look for Ed Faust to handle drums on Angels & Demons:
We want to welcome back our old friend Ed Faust. You might remember Ed from Invisible Force. He was the maniac behind the drums. Ed will be recording the drums for our third release, Angels & Demons. We are very excited to have Mr. Faust back!
Official: www.riverabomma.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/riverabomma
Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI, DRIVER) is planning a Garden Of Chaos mini-tour for this fall:
The ROB ROCK BAND will play three US shows in September, including a live CD/DVD shoot in Atlanta, GA at the ProgPower USA festival on Saturday, September 27th.
The band will include drummer powerhouse Uli Kusch (MASTERPLAN, HELLOWEEN), guitarist/producer CJ Grimmark (NARNIA) , bassist Andreas Olsson Passmark (DIVINEFIRE, NARNIA), guitarist Peter Halgren and vocalist Rob Rock.
The DVD/Live CD is planned for a 2009 release on AFM Records.
There will be two warm-up shows in Central Florida, one at The Haven in Orlando on Wednesday September 24th (with LUNA DEMENTIA, VIO7 and DIRRTY HAIRY), and one at Bourbon Street in Tampa/St. Pete area on Thursday September 25th (with ANDROMEDA and VIO7).
Rob Rock Official: www.robrock.com/index2.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/robrock1 ProgPower Official: http://progpowerusa.com/site
The SAVIOUR MACHINE forum features the latest news concerning the long delayed Legend III:II project:
“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.”
Further reading: HERE MySpace: www.myspace.com/saviourmachine
UK based STAIRWAY is currently at work on its next album:
We have just begun recording new songs for a new STAIRWAY album. There is no release date yet as we are still very much in the beginning stages. Rodney Matthews has done the front cover artwork for the album, and it's a cracker! You may remember Rodney provided the artwork for our debut CD No Rest:No Mercy back in '93. We'll keep you fully informed with developments.
Official: http://homepage.virgin.net/stairway.deoduce/news.htm MySpace: www.myspace.com/stairway
STATIC FUSE is a new female fronted Christian metal project from Michigan. Guitarist Ian Keith Hafner offers further insight at the Christian Metal Realm:
Check out my new project: STATIC FUSE! It's classic, old school Christian metal with female vocals. I'm working with vocalist Sonia Sauruk (best known as Redd Sonia) who has worked in the past with NOVERIM, MY DARKEST TIME and the RICHY PROJECT. I play lead & rhythm guitars. This is a studio project; we won't be playing live shows. But you're gonna love our album, and we plan to do a video and then another album next year.
A lot of times, you hear about a band that "sounds like old school metal with modern influences." That is NOT us. There are NO modern influences. We do our best to have the sound of bands like WHITECROSS, RANSOM GUNS N ROSES, GREAT WHITE, CRYSTAVOX, etc.
Our songs have an in-your-face Christian message, big guitar solo's, high pitched vocals, and everything you loved about the 80's! Our full length disc will be out in September, but you can check out the song "Stop Throwing Stones" now at our MySpace page: www.myspace.com/staticfuse
Further reading: HERE
New Jersey’s SUSPYRE has put the finishing touches on its next CD, When Time Fades…:
SUSPYRE is very happy to announce that their new album, When Time Fades... is finally finished with recording, mixing and goes to mastering today (July 18th). The first song, "Possession", off of the new album can now be heard on their MySpace page: www.myspace.com/suspyre
When Time Fades... is the third album from this up and coming progressive metal band that caught the attention of Sensory Records as an opening act for ZERO HOUR’s 2006 east coast tour of the US. The album will be released worldwide on September 30, 2008.
Returning to their New Jersey studio in 2007 to work on this new album, the band further refined and developed their own identity. The music grooves, has more metallic crunch and even demonstrates a broader range of styles. For this recording, the band is enhanced by the addition of drummer Charlie Zeleny (BEHOLD...THE ARCTOPUS, BLOTTED SCIENCE, JORDAN RUDESS) and a guest appearance by AMARAN’S PLIGHT female vocalist Trisha O’Keefe.
The album features stunning artwork from noted graphic designer Gustavo Sazes (FIREWIND, MYSTIC PROPHECY).
Official: www.suspyre.com
World Covered In Blood, the soon to be released album from X-SINNER, is currently being being mastered:
Mastering is in full swing and should be done soon! This is no cheesy quickie mastering job - but the real deal! AND it takes time! We are almost there and we thank all of you for waiting so patiently for the album! You WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED! This is the best album we've done and we can't wait to see it in YOUR hands! At the helm of the mastering is veteran engineer Mike Mierau who's worked on albums by such artists as KANSAS, PETRA and many other award winning gold record status successes. We are about to go to manufacturing!!
Official: http://x-sinner.org/about_us.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
LINKS
*YouTube is home to footage of vintage (early eighties) RESURRECTION BAND: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGcJa7jgBBI
*The new V-RATS album, Intelligent Design, is now available for purchase at: www.amazon.co.uk/Intelligent-Design-V-Rats
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
Reunited DRIVER plans on releasing its debut Sons Of Thunder in September:
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 is:
Rob Rock - Vocals
Roy Z - Guitars
Reynold "Butch" Carlson - Drums
Ed Roth - Keyboards
Aaron Samson - Bass
Sons Of Thunder track listing: “Titans of Speed”, “I'm A Warrior” , “Fly Away”, “Heart's On Fire”, “Sons Of Thunder”, “Never Give Up”, “Change Of Heart”, “Dark World”, “Winds Of March”, “Only Love Can Save Me Now”, “Tears That I Cry”, “I Believe in Love”
Samples: www.myspace.com/robrockonline Further information: www.myspace.com/driver1990
Former FOREIGNER frontman LOU GRAMM will be putting out a Christian album later this fall:
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."
Source: www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article Official: www.lougramm.com
A recent update was offered by Salem, Oregon based SAINT:
"Crime Scene Earth should be playing on a station near you and showing up in magazines. Dee (Harrington- guitars) is still working away at his instrumental project and Rich (Lynch- bass & vocals) is putting together a new band called SINNERPEACE. This band will be SAINT-like musically but with different musicians and Rich doing vocals. SAINT will work on their new projects (that) will feature Josh (Kramer) on vocals sometime in 2010."
Official: www.saintsite.com
STRANGELAND vocalist Jeremy Ray provided the latest at the Christian Metal Realm in regards to the progress of the bands next album:
“We start finishing the remainder of the songs this week. At present time, we will be doing two practices a week to try and expedite the process. We have about 5 to 7 songs to go. Most of which are in the rough draft stage.
If you are interested, I do a blog about each writing practice on my MySpace page: www.myspace.com/strangevox It usually has some tidbits of info. Some funny stuff, some crap-o-la....you just never know what might happen at practices.
We have not made any final decisions as to where we will be recording yet. We have a few options on the table that will remain nameless for various reasons.
I myself (personally) would be willing to take suggestions for places to record even though it is not the “official" request of the band. There's serious considerations on the table already for us.
Anyway, thanks again for your support and excitement. The goal of the CD is darker, heavier, and harder. How can you go wrong with that?”
Further reading: HERE Official: www.strangeland.us
X-SINNER continues to face delays in getting its latest album, World Covered In Blood, released:
“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.”
The good news, however, is that X-SINNER has made available the track listing to World Covered In Blood: “Back In Red”, “What Rock Is For”, “Holy Ghost & Fire”, “World Covered In Blood”, “Storm On The Horizon”, “Ready To Go”, “Forgive Them”, “Who’s Your Friend”, “Wanna Be Set Free”, “Got Something To Say”, “That Aint Me”
Official: www.x-sinner.org/index.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• LINKS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
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 >>
LINKS
*DELOHIM, a power metal band from Brazil with a sound reminiscent to ETERNA or ADIASTASIA, released a demo entitled The Choice Is Yours in 2006. You can hear two songs off the demo at: www.myspace.com/delohim Download: www.badongo.com/file/8531509
*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. Un-mastered rough mixes of two songs are available at Kevin’s MySpace page: www.myspace.com/thefreestyleguitarist
*Former STRYPER bassist TIM GAINES recently conducted a 50 question “fan interview”: www.timothygaines.com/interviews.htm
*HIS WITNESS, en eighties metal project produced by John & Dino Elefante, will soon be putting out its full length debut Kingdom Come on Retroactive Records. The HIS WITNESS MySpace page features four songs off Kingdom Come: www.myspace.com/wearehiswitness
*IMPELLITTERI now has a presence at MySpace: www.myspace.com/impellitteri2008
*Two new songs off the recently released GLENN KAISER BAND album Octane can be heard at: www.myspace.com/grrrrecords
*Bill Menchen uploaded to his MySpace page a track entitled “Train Crossing” from the upcoming release, Red Rock, of his new band MENCHEN: www.myspace.com/menchenmusik
THREAD OF THE MONTH
The Christian Metal Realm featured a recent – and very nostalgic - discussion revolving around the “old days of Christian metal”. You can read more about it HERE.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
The New Jersey based power metal outfit FAITH FACTOR signed with Retroactive Records:
“We are proud to announce a 5 year record deal with Retroactive Records. The release of our full-length CD, Against A Darkened Sky, is targeted for (if all goes well) November 1, 2008 (worldwide distribution).
FAITH FACTOR will be playing Keep It True festival on November 15th with FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, GIRLSCHOOL and NASTY SAVAGE."
Official: www.faithfactorband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/faithfactorrocks
HARMONY will be releasing a five song EP entitled End Of My Road on August 11, 2008:
“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: “End Of My Road” (single version), “Prevail”, “Alone” (exclusive track), “Enter The Sacred” (exclusive track) and “Rain”.”
The title track “End Of My Road” as well as the EP artwork can be found on the bands MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
Finland’s MEHIDA has finished recording its next album, untitled at the time of this writing:
“The album (recording) process is going on. The rhythm guitars were recorded at Fear & Loathing (Meshuggah/Clawfinger) studio with Clawfinger mastermind Jocke Skog. Now everything is recorded, and soon the album will be mixed. Also don't hesitate to check out MEHIADA at the upcoming gigs. More info on MySpace.”
Official: www.mehida.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/mehida
NARNIA is in the process of finding a replacement for departed vocalist Christian Liljegren:
“We have decided to give it a shot and let (all of you) know that we are looking for someone to replace Christian Liljegren, who left us a few weeks ago. If you are (or if you know someone who is) a great metal/hard rock singer with a good range, have a personal faith in Jesus Christ and who is interested in joining our band for recording a new album and for playing concerts – please drop us a line at: cj@grimmark.com
Send us detailed info about yourself and let us know who you are.
We have received some nice messages from boys and girls with great voices already, for which we are very thankful, but we'd like to know who else is hiding out there.”
Official: www.narniaworld.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/narniaofficial
PURSUIT added a new member to its line up in guitarist Frank James:
“Frank James has joined PURSUIT to add his music writing and guitar shredding talents to our upcoming CD! Frank's work is not new to PURSUIT as he is directly recorded on the self-titled CD and he heavily influenced the Quest album. PURSUIT continues to work up new music for the next release now with much welcome help from Frank. Oh yeah, have you heard him play guitar?! Fasten your seatbelt!”
Look for PURSUIT to appear on the upcoming CPR Volume 3 compilation as well.
Further Reading: www.cprogrock.com To order CPR Volume 3: http://pursuitband.com
RESURRECTION BAND plans to release a box set later this summer:
“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.”
MySpace: www.myspace.com/rezbandjpusa
SAINT vocalist Josh Kramer provided at his website a breakdown of the tracks appearing on the bands latest album Crime Scene Earth:
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.
Further reading: www.mrsaintfan.freewebspace.com/index.html
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.”
Boston tour datest: www.bandboston.com To listen to “Pease Of Mind”: www.myspace.com/stryper Download: www.apple.com/search/ipoditunes/?q=stryper+peace+of+mind
Sensory Records has signed the New Jersey based progressive metal outfit SUSPYRE:
“Sensory Records is proud to announce the signing of New Jersey's up-and-coming progressive metal all-stars SUSPYRE. The band's new album When Time Fades... will be released September 30, 2008.
"We are all very excited about signing to Sensory Records" says Gregg Rossetti, guitarist and founder/composer of SUSPRYE. "The high-caliber musicians on this label have inspired our band to become what it is and we are now proud to be a part of their family."
To further their goal to develop and perfect their fusion of varied musical inspirations and influences, SUSPYRE has recorded a third album, When Time Fades… This album is a groovier piece of art with a bit more metallic crunch, and even more variety in the song styles, including an acoustic piece. No one can accuse this band of being formulaic in their composing. When Time Fades… has set the bar even higher than the band's previous albums, not only in music creation but also in the artwork done by Gustavo Sazes (FIREWIND, DARK EMPIRE, MYSTIC PROPHECY), and featured guest artists that include drummer Charlie Zeleny (BEHOLD THE ARCTOPUS, BLOTTED SCIENCE, JORDAN RUDESS) and female vocalist Trisha O'Keefe (AMARAN’S PLIGHT).”
Official: www.suspyre.com/index2.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/suspyre
Finland’s VENIA offered a recent studio update in regards to the progress of its next album:
“As you might have noticed, our new album is still not ready. There have been delays in the mixing process for different reasons, but progress has been made throughout the spring and we are very pleased with the results so far. We just got the first song ready and you can listen to it at our MySpace (page) as a small preview of the upcoming album. The song is still un-mastered. Unfortunately we can not give you a release date yet, since our working pace is still quite calm. We thank you for your patience and believe that the album is worth the wait.”
The song in question, “The Blood Of The Lamb”, is online at: www.myspace.com/veniaband
X-SINNER plans on releasing its new CD, World Covered In Blood, later this summer:
“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!”
Official: http://x-sinner.org/about_us.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
Ulterium Records signs HARMONY:
“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.”
Ulterium Official: www.ulterium-records.com HARMONY MySpace: www.myspace.com/harmonyofficial
Chris Dickens offered a recent update in regards to the next MISSION OF ONE CD:
"After two long years, the new MISSION OF ONE CD 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 CD 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 2nd CD 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."
Here's the final track listing in order found on the CD: “Surrender”, “Give In To Him” “Man Overboard” “I Will Worship You”, “He's Been Good To Me”, “Be Yourself”, “Are You Listening?”, “The End”, “I'd Do It All Again”, “I Fall Down”
MySpace: www.myspace.com/missionofone
NEAL MORSE will be releasing a live concert 2-DVD set, Sola Scriptura & Beyond, on July 15, 2008:
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.
Official: www.nealmorse.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/nealmorse
THEOCRACY has signed with Sweden’s Ulterium Records to release its sophomore album, Mirror Of Souls:
“We’re very excited to finally get this album 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!
Official: www.theocracymusic.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
LINKS
BARREN CROSS has launched a new website: www.barrencross.net
Michael Sweet goes into detail about both the new STRYPER album and his involvement with BOSTON in a detailed interview with Christianity Today: www.christianitytoday.com/music/interviews/2008/michaelsweet-0508.html
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BARREN CROSS is in the process of recording a new album! Lead vocalist Michael Drive (formerly Michael Lee) offers the latest in regards to the band:
“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.net
By the way, for those interested in a BARREN CROSS LIVE SHOW, please contact our booking agent: Jeff McLain: jeff@northcoastagency.com Telephone: 717-391-0949.
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, I know that www.girdermusic.com has them available to purchase right now.
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. If you want to help with this, please contact “KJ” who is specifically handling this tour:
northsouthbooking@cox.net Telephone: 479-236-8916.
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. For those of you who are interested, my albums/videos can be seen, heard, and obtained here: www.michaeldrive.com. For those on MySpace, please come see me at www.myspace.com/michaeldrive1.
Once again, to visit BARREN CROSS, to hear some songs, get a t-shirt, or whatever, you can find us at: www.myspace.com/barrencross. And as I said earlier, when construction is finished, the beautiful brand new www.barrencross.net will be available for you with lots of great stuff.
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.”
PASTOR BRAD provided a recent update at the Christian Metal Realm in regards to the various projects he has in the works:
“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 RECORDIGN 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
NEW ALBUM SERIES -- BASED ON 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 (spelling?)... I really focus on HOW THE FIRST CENTURY CHRISTIANS (THE ORIGINAL RECIPIENTS) WOULD HAVE UNDERSTOOD THE LETTER.... It will be a VERY encouraging study!
Okay guys, Thanks for being you... for loving metal and Jesus... and for the friendship/support and encouragement you have blessed me with here at the CMR!
If you would like to be part of my mailing list--which I call THE DEMO CLUB you can sign up at the link below--I send out a couple 2-3 updates each month--I include links to new bands I've discovered, Scripture/thoughts/prayer/encouragement, FREE mp3s (often), updates on my projects and other Christian/metal related tid-bits... like last issue I included a link to the Michael Sweet audio interview at "iTestify"... it's a cool little email mailing: http://www.guitarjams.net/democlub.html
Official: www.guitarjams.net
LABEL NEWS
CM Sweden/Rivel Records will be releasing new albums by DIVINEFIRE, REINXEED and STONEFUZE on June 20, 2008:
DIVINEFIRE says farwell!
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.
Official: www.divinefire.net MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/divinefireofficial
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
MySpace: www.myspace.com/reinxeednorth
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.
MySpace: www.myspace.com/stonefuze
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• INTERVIEWS
• LINKS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
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
ARSENAL - Christine Steel
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 >>
INCRAVE - Jon Bålefalk
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 >>
LINKS
DARKWATER uploaded a video of its track “The Play II” to YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jHyPSgZQPE
Metal To Infinity recently interviewed FAITH FACTOR lead vocalist Ski: http://mtibelgium.00freehost.com/InterviewFAITHFACTOR.html
You can view a well produced video of the HB track “It Is Time”, off the groups new album Frozen Inside, at:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWxpgBUwO6c&feature=related
THE HEAL, a bluesy hard rock project featuring guitarist Rex Carroll (WHITECROSS), uploaded two new songs to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/rexcarrolltheheal
The new JACOBS DREAM CD, Dominion Of Darkness, the second to feature vocalist Chaz Bond, was released on 04/17/2008 (review currently online). Samples and ordering information: http://cdbaby.com/cd/jacobsdream
An interview with ORPHAN PROJECT vocalist Shane Lankford is available at Rock Area: www.rockarea.eu/readarticle.php?article_id=265
ROB ROCK’s ShoutLife page is worth checking out: www.shoutlife.com/robrock
A Basement Tapes Backstage Pass page now exists at the Mr. Saint Fan website: http://mrsaintfan.freewebspace.com/photo4_1.html
Three tracks off the Peace Child demo of CHRISTINE STEEL can be heard at: www.myspace.com/christinesteel
THREAD OF THE MONTH
A discussion concerning the Legends Of Rock Festival (held earlier this spring in Germany) recently took place at the Christian Metal Realm. You will find a detailed review of the festival in addition to several YouTube links to live footage of WHITECROSS, BLOODGOOD & SEVENTH AVENUE. Further reading HERE.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
Chapel Hill, North Caroline based DELOREAN has changed its name to REBORN. Look for the group to release its new album, Edge Of Existence, in the near future:
“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!”
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/rebornrox
Retroactive Records recently added the horror rock group GRAVE ROBBER to its roster:
“If you like your gothic/shock rock spiked with a little arsenic and a healthy dose of dark humor, check out Be Afraid! Band members Dr. Cadaver, Nameless, and Maggot offer you chainsaw guitars, super-tight arrangements, and blatant morbidity wrapped around insanely catchy choruses. Wretched provides elite vocal skills in a mesmerizing DANZIG/ROB HALFORD sort of way! Their theatrical stage show, zombie-like costumes (in GWAR-like fashion!), let fans know this is not your everyday band.
Formed in 2005, these devil's rejects arm themselves with sonic, vibratory executions and images of horrific realities, bringing an onslaught of sound and warning that will ring into eternity. Rest assured, you will be afraid. You will be very afraid. Fans of RACKETS AND DRAPES, THE MISFITS, ALICE COOPER, TYPE O NEGATIVE, GWAR, KISS, DANZIG, and ROB ZOMBIE will find themselves feeling as though they strolling in familiar musical history, yet simultaneously wading through a dense mire of uncharted territory. There's nothing more terrifying than the unknown. Grave Robber is the one band that can hold your hand on a decidedly horrifying romp, leading you safely to the other side. Heed the call of Grave Robber. Die and escape the grave, or die eternally.”
MySpace: www.myspace.com/graverobberpunk
Rob Rock is officially back in IMPELLITTERI! An update was recently offered by guitarist Chris Impellitteri:
“Now on to our new record titled Good And Evil. The new music is being mixed in Vancouver with Greg Reely (DEVIL DRIVER, 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 – Cowboy 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 is officially back in the band.
Oh, and IMPELLITTERI will be creating their first official My Space Page shortly.”
Official: www.rapture.net/impellitteri
Additional information was found at Rob Rock's ShoutLife page:
“Rob Rock is currently in the studio recording vocals for the new IMPELLITTERI CD titled Good And Evil. Rob reunites with long time friend and guitarist Chris Impellitteri for their first collaboration together since the IMPELLITTIER Crunch album. The new record titled, Good and Evil, is being mixed in Vancouver with Greg Reely (DEVIL DRIVER, FEAR FACTORY, etc..). This album will bring back some of the classic Rob Rock/Chris Impellitteri sounds of Screaming Symphony/Answer to the Master/Eye of the Hurricane along with some new sounds as well.”
Link: www.shoutlife.com/robrock
NARNIA is currently at work on its next album, untitled at the time of this writing:
“We are happy to announce that we have a bunch of new songs and that we have started the recording of our 6th studio album! The songs are heading in an up-tempo, aggressive but melodic direction.
This time no less than Fredrik Nordström (Studio Fredman) will be involved in finalizing the record. He’s famous all over the place for his work with IN FLAMES, ARCH ENEMY, DIMMU BORGIR, etc and we’re excited to have him in the board.”
In other NARNIA news, long term vocalist Christian Liljegren has departed the band:
“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!”
Christian Liljegren
Official: www.narniaworld.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/narniaofficial
ROB ROCK will be making a guest appearance on the new AREA51 album, Daemonicus:
“Japanese melodic metallers AREA51 released their second album, Daemonicus, on March 5 in Japan, and on March 12 through the iTunes Store, with distribution in 22 countries. The CD features a guest appearance by singer Rob Rock, who is singing in the last track "Lord Knows". In this 16 and a half minute song, with lots of intricate changes, Rob has shown his versatile abilities and many of his approaches to singing.”
Link: www.shoutlife.com/robrock
THE SEVENTH POWER has just released its sophomore album entitled Dominion & Power:
“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.”
Official: www.theseventhpower.com/home.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/theseventhpowerdotcom
Brazil’s SHINING STAR recently released its third full length album, Reset, on Silent Music Records:
“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 sophomore effort Enter Eternity.”
Reset includes the following twelve tracks: ”Reset”, “Desperate and Suffocated”, “Radiation Flame”, “Insanity”, “Enslaved By Fury”, “Reign Of Terror”, “I Hate You”, “You're Sick”, “Tell Me”, “Nightmares”, “Guilty Of Crime” and “Karma” (Brazilian bonus track).”
You can hear “I Hate You” and “Radiation Flame” in their entirety at: www.myspace.com/fabiorochashiningstar
He’s Not Dead, the 1998 debut of SIN DIZZY, is scheduled for re-issue on Girder Records later this month:
“Completely re-mastered with all new art-work inside and out. SIN DIZZY was formed by Oz Fox and Tim Gaines back in the 90’s when STRYPER disbanded, however many of the songs on the CD were written for the next STRYPER album. The original version has been seen on eBay selling for as much as $75. Fortunately the pre-order is only $13.98 and will include a free SIN DIZZY button back. Pre-Order your copy today.”
Ordering Information: HERE
Official: www.sindizzy.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/sindizzy
A new book from STRYPER is expected to be out by the end of of 2008:
“How would you like to be part of a STRYPER book that will surely become a highly sought-after collectible? A limited-edition authorized STRYPER 25TH ANNIVERSARY coffee-table book is in the works that will feature never-before-published pictures, reflections from the band, and rare collectibles from all over the world! Do you have a STRYPER tattoo? Is your vehicle STRYPERized? Have pictures of when you met the band or saw them perform? Send them in and they just might make the book! STRYPER is one of the most visually eye-catching bands from the 80s, with a loyal, diehard fan base that's just as intense! This project is for YOU, so start sending those pictures in!”
Further reading and disclaimer: http://stryper.com/news/050208.html
THEOCRACY has both good and bad news to report in its most recent update:
“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.
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!”
You can read Patrick’s statement HERE
Official: http://theocracymusic.com/index.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
Intelligent Design, the upcoming album from THE VASELINE RATES, is scheduled for release in mid-June:
“THE V-RATS album Intelligent Design is now (finished). Many thanks to Mark and Sheena at M2 Studios. The running order for Intelligent Design will be: “No Good For Me”, “Dirty Little Secret”, “Know Definition”, “et al”, “Lisa”, “Point Of No Return”, “So Over You”, “All The Ones”, “South Of My Heart”, “Devil To Pay” & “Blood Demons & Whisky”
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.
Look forward to catching up with you all at The Robin 2 gig on the 27th.”
Official: www.thevaselinerats.com
VERTICAL ALIGNMENT recently announced its latest project, The Trail Of Tears Suite:
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.”
You can read more about The Trail Of Tears Suite at: www.verticalalignment.com
WINDLAN is a new heavy metal project featuring Pastor Brad and friends. Pastor Brad expands upon the new musical direction he is taking at the official WINDLAN page::
“It's sort of hard to believe the April of 2008 marks 5 years for the whole Guitar Jams/Pastor Brad thing. God has been good! WINDLAN, of course, marks the beginning of something new for me. I mean it's still very much going to be about God-Honoring Heavy Metal. But I'm making an intentional effort to no (longer) be tied to the 80s. I will forever be influenced by that decade--it's who I am, but I've been influenced a good bit by other music too, and I will strive to broaden the horizons a bit with the WINDLAN releases. WINDLAN will be the first release of this kind, and it will mark my 11th release total--God has been generous with His inspiration!”
Official: www.guitarjams.net/WINDLAN.html
X-SINNER is near completion of its next release, World Covered In Blood:
“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.”
Official: http://x-sinner.org/about_us.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
• FEATURED REVIEWS
• INTERVIEWS
• LINKS
• LABEL NEWS
• THREAD OF THE MONTH
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
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
BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA – Sidney Allen Johnson
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 >>
LINKS
ARMAGEDDON now has a presence at MySpace: www.myspace.com/armageddonva
You can read an interview with BARREN CROSS at Christian Extreme: http://65.61.12.97/barren_cross_interview.html
Several live tracks from FAITH FACTOR are online at YouTube, including “Deceiver” and “Prayer Warriors”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mpp89JhPCSM and www.youtube.com/watch?v=5D5SJgdyYTw&feature=related
Bullroser Records has signed HB, a female fronted symphonic metal group from Finland that has often been compared to Nightwish. Frozen Inside, HB’s Bullroser debut, will be released on April 23, 2008. Samples: www.myspace.com/hbmetal
IMPELLITTERI uploaded awesome live footage of “Overture” and “Visual Prism” being performed during its 1995 Answer To The Master tour of Japan: www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2XGhYQvMvQ
Guitarist Bill Menchen (TITANIC, THE SEVENTH POWER) conducted a recent interview with Metal To Infinity: http://mtibelgium.00freehost.com/InterviewTITANIC.html
The Swedish progressive doom band MIRADOR has put together “sketches” of two new songs: www.myspace.com/miradorspace
Finland’s RANDOM EYES has signed to Bullroser Records, who will be releasing the bands sophomore album, Invisible, this spring. You can hear samples to six new tracks at: www.myspace.com/randomeyes
Two tracks off the recently released SEVENTH AVENUE album, Terium, can be heard at: http://08.elementsofrock.com/de/content/seventh-avenue
A very well done SEVENTH AVENUE fan page has also been launched: www.bbillett.freeserve.co.uk/seventhavenue/seventhavenue1.htm
By The Blood is the working title of the next SHINING FORCE album. The band added a new song, “Demon Fighter”, to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/sfband
STRYPER vocalist Michael Sweet will be joining BOSTON on its greatest hits tour starting June 6, 2008. You can read the full press release (with itinerary) at: http://stryper.com/news/boston.html
X-SINNER added to its MySpace page a new song, “Forgive Them”, from its upcoming album World Covered In Blood: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
LABEL NEWS
Look for RETROACTIVE RECORDS to put out several exciting new releases this spring and summer:
7TH POWER - Dominion And Power (All drums by Robert Sweet)
BARNABAS - Approaching Light Speed
BARNABAS - Feel The Fire
BARNABAS - Little Foxes
DANIEL BAND - On Rock +2
FINAL AXE - Beyond Hell's Gates (All drums by Robert Sweet)
HIS WITNESS - Kingdom Come (Produced by Elefante Brothers)
MENCHEN - Red Rock (featuring Robert Sweet & Tony Franklin)
REZ BAND - Colours (Digipak)
TITANIC - Maiden Voyage (All drums by Robert Sweet)
TITANIC - Screaming In Silence (All drums by Robert Sweet)
MySpace: www.myspace.com/retroactivewreckage
THREAD OF THE MONTH
The Christian Metal Realm is home to a recent discussion of the new SAINT album, Crime Scene Earth, in which the bassist Richard Lynch adds his commentary. Check it out HERE.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BRIDE recorded a new song, “Author Of The Flame", for the recently released 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, Larry Worley of FEAR NOT , and Dale & Troy Thompson of BRIDE.
For a limited time you can hear Dale and Troy's track "Author Of The Flame"on LNJ's myspace page (www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2). The song was written by Dale, Troy, Shawn Pelata of LINE OF FIRE and Justin Murr. 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...."
Official: www.libertynjustice.net
DBEALITY, a doom project of vocalist David Benson, has a European tour lined up for this spring:
“David Benson's DBEALITY will be embarking on a tour this spring starting with Elements Of Rock Festival in Switzerland and making stops in Germany, Switzerland, Italy. The Elements Of Rock show will feature an “all-star” line up (in which Dave will be joined by) guitarist CJ Grimmark (NARNIA, ROB ROCK), bassist Andreas Olsson (NARNIA, DIVINEFIRE) and drummer Mick Nordstrom (MODEST ATTRACTION). We look forward to seeing you all out on tour this spring in Europe.”
David is currently working on the sophomore release from DBEALITY, which will be produced by Neil Kernon (QUEENSRYCHE, DOKKEN, HALL & OATS, KANSAS). A release date has not been announced.
Official: www.dbeality.com Further reading: http://08.elementsofrock.com
DELIVERANCE plans to release a live DVD in the near future. Founding member Jimmy Brown goes into additional detail at the Christian Metal Realm:
“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.”
Further reading HERE.
In other DELIVERANCE news, the band is currently at work on its next album. Jimmy again provides further information at the Christian Metal Realm:
“Mike (Phillips – guitars) 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!!!”
Further reading HERE.
Against A Darkened Sky is the working title of the next FAITH FACTOR album:
“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 recent update was offered by the band in regards to its progress:
“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, Joe 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. A new power ballet named "In Remembrance", 2 in drop "D", and the remainder in standard "E" tuning. This album 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 under Metallic Archangel Records.
The artwork for the album is complete; Liza Rock will be doing our layout, and she is extremely talented!
Later this week, we will post a new video from one of our earlier shows. The song is called "Deceiver", and it is a warning to all about the evil traps of compromise that he tries to trick us into.”
Official: www.faithfactorband.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/faithfactorrocks
Rob Rock will be handling lead vocals on the upcoming debut of the eighties metal project FIRES OF BABYLON. A press release from the band goes into further detail:
“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 track listing: “Falling To Pieces”, “Devilution”, “When The Kingdom Comes”, “Lake Of Fire”, ”Holy Resurrection”, “Going Through Changes”, “Lazarus Rising”, “Revolution Coming”, “Generation Of Destruction” & “Castles Are Burning”
FIRES OF BABYLON line up:
Rob Rock - Vocals
Lou St. Paul - Guitars
Kelly Conlon - Bass
Robert Falzano – Drums
MySpace: www.myspace.com/firesofbabylon
Rebuilding The Ruins is the title of the next IMAGES OF EDEN album. An update was recently offered by vocalist Gordon Tittsworth:
“Well, after several months of living and breathing new material 24/7, the 3rd chapter in the IMAGES OF EDEN saga is almost completely written. I will be putting some final touches on the last 2 songs over the next couple of weeks. After that, Dennis Mullin (guitars), Bryan Wierman (bass) and I will be ironing out last minute arrangements. Once complete, Chris Lucci will start tracking drums in TX. We hope to have it complete later in 2008. However, past experience has proven that everything takes much longer than anticipated. So far, so good, though! :).
Rebuilding The Ruins is a full concept CD that picks up where Sunlight of the Spirit left off. The last few years have been a major growing and leaning experience for me and I really feel this is conveyed through the new material. Because of this, I can honestly say that this release will be well above and beyond Spirit. It seemed as if music (and lyrics) for the entire CD quickly poured out from an open inspirational flood gate. There will be a few guest musicians on this release as well (too soon to mention- still working out details).”
Official: www.imagesofeden.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/imagesofeden
Dead End, the sophomore album from Sweden’s INCRAVE (formerly EVERGRACE), is also scheduled for release later this month:
“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: “Shattered”, “The Forgotten”, “A Shadow In The Dark”, “The Touch Of Death”, “Unveil The Truth”, “Shades Of Me”, “An Empty Soul”, “Scream In Silence”, “Never More” & “Dead End”
The opening track off the album “Shattered”, as well as the album artwork, has been posted at the band’s MySpace page: www.myspace.com/incrave
IVORY MOON has a new female lead vocalist in Elisa Pezzuto, who has replaced the departed Cecilia Serra:
“The Italian symphonic metal band IVORY MOON has announced the departure of their female vocalist Cecilia Serra. There are no hard feelings involved: Cecilia has decided to focus on her family and studies. IVORY MOON wants to take the opportunity to thank Cecilia for all her great work in the band the last years and wish her all the best for the future.
The new female vocalist in IVORY MOON is Elisa Pezzuto, a very talented singer that has been involved in musical activities in all her life, in everything from medieval music, gospel to modern rock.”
Officiial: www.ivorymoon.it MySpace: www.myspace.com/ivorymoonofficial
Another album is in the works from the Swedish classic hard rock group JERUSALEM. Vocalist & guitarist Ulf Christiansson recently provided the latest concerning the project:
“Thought I would give a report on how things are going at the JERUSALEM front. In September last year me, Michael and Peter started to talk about the possibilities of making a new JERUSALEM CD.
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.”
You can read Ulf’s complete (unedited) commentary about the new album at: www.jerusalem.se/sidorna/uffescorner.html
Glenn Kaiser updated his Blog to include the latest about both the next GLENN KAISER BAND project and the upcoming REZ BAND boxed set:
“GKB is moving through the recording process, hopefully finishing most all but vocals and harmonica parts on the new project today. I'm loving the songs, sounds and think we've got some good performances. No title for the CD yet... a little more lyric work and singing going down this next week.
REZ work toward the boxed set will also include a 16 song video selection all from the REZ XX YEARS shows done in Chicago. Grrr and I will post details and release dates and info. as soon as they're available... we're some months away from that, but this is the year.”
Further Reading: www.glennkaiser.com/blog.htm
LETTER 7 plans to title its next album Follow The Light. Look for it to be released this summer. Also, there are several changes in the bands line up to report (taken from the LETTER 7 home page):
“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.”
You can hear samples of two new songs, “Runnin” and “Nail In The Cross”, with Steve Young on lead vocals at: www.letter7rocks.com/soundclips.html
The Italian epic power metal outfit MARTIRIA will be releasing its upcoming album, Time Of Truth, on Underground Symphony:
“The band is happy to announce that an agreement has been reached with mythic Underground Symphony for the release of the new album. The new CD will be released in a luxury digipack, together with an (interesting) booklet.
The title is: Time of Truth and it will contain eleven pieces of pure epic metal.
MARTIRIA wants to thank Maurizio Chiarello and all Underground Symphony staff for their kindness and professionalism.
Soon we will let you know the exact date of the release.”
Official: www.martiria.com/news.php MySpace: www.myspace.com/martiria
MEHIDA remains hard at work on its next album, untitled at the time of this writing. The group furnished a recent update from the studio:
“We had a great week at (the) studio. The last week we recorded all the vocals for the forthcoming album. It was really fun period together with Thomas (Vikstrom – vocals) and other guys. Now we have almost everything tracked just waiting for (it) to be mixed. The songs have got more and more shape during last weeks and (they) sound great! The guys have done especially great work with the vocals and guitars.”
Official: www.mehida.com MySpace: www.mehida.com
Vocalist, bassist and guitarist Chris Dickens is close to finishing the next MISSION OF ONE album:
“After many months of working on the new CD, I think I am nearing completion. As you can tell from my profile, three of the new songs are posted. So, it shouldn't be too much longer until the CD is finished.
Recording and mixing is a lot harder than you know when you really want to do things right. I never knew that this would be this much work or that this level of detail would be necessary to get a really great sound. But, I think it has paid off.”
The three songs in question, “The End”, “Give In To Him” and “Are You Listening?", can be heard at: www.myspace.com/missionofone
Chris further expands upon the musical direction he is taking:
“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.”
Following is the full track listing of the CD: “Surrender”, “Give In To Him*”, “I Will Worship You”, “He's Been Good To Me”, “Man Overboard”, “Are You Listening?”, “The End*”, “I Fall Down Before You”, “Be Yourself” & “I'd Do It All Again”
Further reading HERE.
Guitarist JOSHUA PERAHIA recently re-issued several of his classic albums of the past. He has also started work on a new CD. A press release from the artists management goes into further detail:
“Critically acclaimed Christian melodic hard rock guitarist Joshua Perahia (JOSHUA) has just launched his newly formatted website at: www.joshuaperahia.com
Joshua is also preparing to enter the studio with vocalist Jeff Fenholt, the lead singer from JOSHUA’s 1985 release Surrender, to record a new album tentatively entitled Resurrection.
In advance of the new album, Joshua has re-mastered and re-issued three of his classic albums which have not been in print for six years:
The Hand is Quicker Than the Eye (25th Anniversary re-issue)
Surrender (with new cover art)
Chapter One (with new cover art)
All three will be available on March 20, 2008 through the Joshua Perahia website, CDBaby and many other hard rock mail order retailers worldwide. Samples are currently available at: www.myspace.com/joshuaperahia
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), Neal Grusky (TAKARA) and Jeff Fenholt.”
A ROB ROCK live CD/DVD is scheduled for release on AFM Records next year:
“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 - 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.”
Official: www.robrock.com/index2.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/robrock1
Arkeyn Steel Records re-issued the out of print and hard to find 1990 debut of SCARLET RAYNE, 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 photo plus an in depth biography. Vinyl edition limited to 500 copies. Both editions will feature 4 never released before bonus tracks.”
MySpace: www.myspace.com/scarletraynemusic
New Jersey based progressive metal outfit SUSPYRE announced the track listing of its next album, When Time Fades…:
“Possession”, “Evolutions”, “Lighted Endrhyme”, “Maniac Main Point Check”, “Siren”, “Reign”, “Fallen Stars”, “A World With No Measures”, “The Light of the Fire”, “Apparitions”, “Let Freedom Ring” & “Kirtî Dombulî Kumuda”
Guitarist Gregg Rossetti, the groups main composer, offered the following about When Time Fades…: “[This album] is groovier and the songs are diverse. There is less obnoxious double bass. It is more about colors and sounds and groove, rather than in your face metal. The guitars are more down tuned and heavier riffs, rather than epic. The other stuff we’ve done is more orchestral. There are orchestral parts to this album; it’s just not dominating the songs. It is there for color rather than being bombastic.”
Official: www.suspyre.com/index2.html MySpace (with new album artwork): www.myspace.com/suspyre
TEMPLE OF BLOOD has made its forthcoming CD, Overlord, available for pre-order:
“TEMPLE OF BLOOD is a power thrash metal band, with musical influences of early MEGADETH, JUDAS PRIEST, ANNIHILATOR, DARK ANGEL, CANDLEMASS, IRON MAIDEN, and many more. Our music is inspired by the masters of heavy metal art while our lyrics reflect Biblical stories and teachings.
Our new album Overlord is now available for pre-order at our MySpace page and our official homepage. Overlord features eleven new tracks and a cover version of "Forbidden Evil" by FORBIDDEN. Samples from some songs are available on our MySpace page. This will mark our first recording with ex-ANTITHESIS bassist Jim Lewis.”
Official: www.templeofblood.net MySpace: www.myspace.com/templeofblood
THEOCRACY founder Matt Smith provided an update in February about the release of the bands sophomore album Mirror Of Souls:
“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.
Further updates as they develop...”
Official: www.theocracymusic.com MySpace: www.myspace.com/theocracyband
A studio report from X-SINNER furnishes the latest concerning its next CD World Covered In Blood:
“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!”
Official: http://x-sinner.org/about_us.html MySpace: www.myspace.com/xsinnernews
• 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 ESSENCE OF SORROW MySpace now includes demo versions of two new tracks, “Tonight” and “Forsaken”: www.myspace.com/essenceofsorrow
The German power metal group LIGHTMARE uploaded five new songs to its MySpace page: www.myspace.com/lightmarerocks
RAGING STORM RECORDS is an independent record label supporting positive music with a Christian world view: www.ragingstormrecords.com
SACRED WARRIOR added to its MySpace page two new songs, “Day By Day” and “C’mon”, recorded during its attempt at a reunion album several years ago: www.myspace.com/sacredwarrior777
SCARLET RAYNE, an operatic power metal band that released its first and only album, Theater Humanitarian, in the early nineties, now has a presence at MySpace: www.myspace.com/scarletraynemusic
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
