METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
PŸLON To Release A Lament on July 29, 2016:
Press Release / Swiss doom metal outfit PŸLON are very excited to announce the details of their latest album A Lament, which marks its seventh full-length release. Working again with an excellent partnership between US label Roxx Records and Quam Libet Records from Europe, the band’s brand new effort A Lament is scheduled for release on July 29, 2016.
In the two years since the release of Homo Homini Lupus, PŸLON have made no progress whatsoever, which is the greatest compliment you can give this Swiss band of doom stalwarts. Again, they have managed to capture that particular down-tuned- slow-because-I-can magic on A Lament with eight brand new and epic tracks such as “Desolation Is Divine” or “Lazarus” but no less with more succinct numbers such as the paean to Clint Eastwood with the track “The Lone Rider” in its seven-minute briskness.
Back by popular demand is Matt Brand on Ozzy-tinged lead vocals. Ian Arkley does the honors of gracing the album with a majestic guitar solo on “The Day After The War” while Damir Eskic, representing the top echelon of Swiss Malmsteen disciples, takes the speed up a notch with a roaring lead break on “Desolation Is Divine”.
This brand new album does it again, hitting a true home run for heavy metal and doom fans alike. This beautifully packaged Limited Edition digipack comes complete with a 12-page insert and complete lyrics enclosed.
A Lament track listing:
1. “Cosmik Lizard”
2. “Desolation Is Divine”
3. “The Day After The War”
4. “Pantodynamos”
5. ”Lazarus”
6. “Fair Haven Of Thesterness”
7. “The Lone Rider”
8. “”A lament”
Visit www.roxxproductions.com in the US or visit www.quamlibetrecords.ch in Europe for more release details and pre-order information.
PŸLON online: www.pylon-doom.net & www.facebook.com/pylondoom
STRYPER Announce 30th Anniversary To Hell With The Devil Tour:
Press Release / Iconic rock band STRYPER will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its multi-platinum album To Hell With The Devil this fall with a world tour, featuring all four original members and complete with the original yellow-and-black costumes. Released by Enigma Records on October 24, 1986, the Grammy-nominated To Hell With The Devil is the band's third studio album and the first Christian metal album to achieve platinum status.
Throughout 1987, the music videos for "Free" and "Honestly" ranked #1 on MTV's list of most requested videos, and the video for "Calling On You" reached #2. STRYPER was the first band to ever have two songs in MTV's Top 10 simultaneously.
“To Hell With The Devil literally changed our lives," says STRYPER frontman Michael Sweet. "During that tour, we went from playing theaters and mid-sized clubs to arenas, all in a very short amount of time. We never could have predicted the wild popularity of those songs and videos - especially in the mainstream market."
Regarding the To Hell With The Devil songwriting sessions, Sweet told Guitar World magazine: "We always strive to outdo ourselves, so when we made To Hell With The Devil, we wanted to make it better than Soldiers Under Command. We just went in and made a record, and it just so happens that it wound up being our most successful and most beloved. God really blessed that album."
Added STRYPER guitarist Oz Fox: "I think it came at the right time, too. Back then, MTV was doing the whole 'Dial MTV' thing and we also had video budgets. The music definitely fit in with what was going on but it was also different enough to have its own niche."
Sweet also talked about the controversy over the album's original cover art. He said: "There were some Christian bookstores and carriers that wanted to carry the album, but they had a problem with the cover showing angels and the pentagram being ripped from Satan. They thought it was too controversial, and because of them threatening to not carry it, we decided to change it to a black cover. It actually wound up making it even more controversial because now the album is really rare."
Unlike many of their counterparts, STRYPER is comprised of all four original members with Michael Sweet on vocals and guitar, Robert Sweet on drums, Tim Gaines on bass and Oz Fox on guitar. Rocking since 1984, STRYPER is responsible for such classic '80s metal albums as Soldiers Under Command, To Hell With The Devil and In God We Trust. After a sabbatical for much of the 1990's, STRYPER returned strong in the early 21st century. To date, the Dove Award-winning and GRAMMY-nominated band has sold over 10 million records worldwide.
William Morris Endeavor (WME) has partnered with STRYPER to book this fall’s tour. To Hell with the Devil tour dates will be announced at a later time. For all 2016 tour dates and exclusive VIP Meet & Greet packages: visit www.stryper.com
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
THE UNION OF SINNERS & SAINTS Release “Independence Day”:
Press Release / THE UNION OF SINNERS & SAINTS, a band featuring PETRA’s lead singer John Schlitt and WHITEHEART founding member Billy Smiley, is bringing back an oldie, but a goodie with a new recording of the No. 1 hit “Independence Day.” The remake, originally from WHITEHEART’s popular Powerhouse album, was produced by Smiley and features Schlitt’s distinctive vocals. The single, which was released on May 24, 2016, is going for adds at Christian Rock and Christian CHR-formatted radio stations.
Jeff Van Driel, CEO and Founder of Suite 28c Records, commented, “WHITEHEART and PETRA were a big part of what formed my musical taste growing up in a small rural town in Canada and this album combines the best of what made those groups so special. It is truly an honor for Suite 28c to represent THE UNION OF SINNERS & SAINTS and hope that this record reaches many with its message.”
“Independence Day” is from the eponymously-titled CD of ten original songs and updated versions of PETRA’s “Beyond Belief” and WHITEHEART’s “Indy Day”, set for release on June 17 and available for preorder now on iTunes. In addition to Schlitt and Smiley, the band features WHITEHEART bassist Anthony Sallee, Jason Fowler, Jon Knox and Jonathan Crone.
Though a new band, THE UNION OF SINNERS & SAINTS combines members from two of the best-selling Christian rock bands in history. PETRA and WHITEHEART collectively have sold more than 12 million records, charted 25 No. 1 songs and garnered numerous Grammy and Dove Awards. In addition to the musical histories, the band also merges the friendship between Schlitt and Smiley.
"John and I got together last Fall and started writing some songs and discussed both of our histories and journeys,” Smiley said. “After seeing the chemistry and friendship that developed, we were excited with the new material we were creating, and started brainstorming about taking this out on the road this year.”
“It only made sense to feature PETRA and WHITEHEART favorites along with some of the new songs we were writing in the studio.” said Schlitt. “We realized we had a lot of new ideas swirling around in our heads that we wanted to share, both musically and lyrically, songs that were on our hearts and minds. And yet we also wanted to celebrate with all of our friends and fans some of the memorable songs, moments, and performances that they have been a part of over the years.”
“The album and live events,” Schlitt said, “will incorporate the kind of artistry and ministry that will remind (fans) of the early years of Christian Rock, but also usher in a new energy and excitement.”
THE UNION OF SINNERS & SAINTS currently is touring throughout North America in support of the new music.
The Union Of Sinners & Saints track listing:
1. “Rise Up”
2. “Brother To Brother”
3. “Now Not Ever”
4. “Independence Day”
5. “Lone Soldier”
6. “The Things We Do”
7. “Old Guys Rule”
8. “The Call”
9. “My Offering”
10. “Beyond Belief”
11. “Bittersweet”
12. “Christ The Lord Is Risen Today”
THE UNION OF SINNERS & SAINTS online: http://theunionofsinnersandsaints.com & www.facebook.com/TheUnion7
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
THE NEAL MORSE BAND To Release New Live CD/DVD Set, Alive Again:
Press Release / Much to the excitement of Prog fans worldwide, THE NEAL MORSE BAND will be releasing a new live 2CD/DVD set and Blu-ray on August 5, 2016 titled Alive Again. Riding on the tremendous success of their breakthrough album The Grand Experiment, THE NEAL MORSE BAND set out on a tremendously successful world tour in the spring of 2015. Neal Morse and Mike Portnoy have teamed up with Randy George, Eric Gillette, and Bill Hubauer to create one of the greatest progressive rock bands of all time. Full stop. Alive Again will be available as a DVD/2CD set and a standalone Blu-ray and shows the band at the top of their form performing for a rousing audience in The Netherlands on March 6, 2015.
Says Neal, “The Alive Again tour and this DVD/Blu-ray is one of the finest we have ever done. In my humble opinion… It's really great! I think you all are really going to dig it. Check it out and you'll understand how amazing this band is! I love it!”
“The Neal Morse Band is a force of nature. They have evolved into a great live band, one that is as good as there is in music and they really shine on this live set. The performances here are jaw-dropping and might have you giving a standing ovation from your couch.” - Roie Avin, The Prog Report
To the delight of his passionate and growing fan base, there seems to be no end in sight for the magical music and masterful musicianship that flows from the mind and hands of Neal Morse and his band of virtuosos!
Alive Again track listing, CD 1:
1. “Alive Again Intro”
2. “The Call”
3. “Leviathan”
4. “The Grand Experiment”
5. “Harm's Way”
6. “Bill's Keyboard Solo”
7. “The Creation”
8. “There Is Nothing That God Can't Change”
Alive Again track listing, CD 2:
1. “Waterfall”
2. “Eric's Gtr Solo”
3. “In The Fire”
4. “Alive Again”
5. “Rejoice”
6. “Oh Lord, My God”
7. “Reunion”
8. “King Jesus”
To purchase the The Neal Morse Band's “Alive Again” 2CD/DVD set or Blu-ray: www.radiantrecords.com
NEAL MORSE online: www.nealmorse.com & www.facebook.com/nealmorse
ENERGEMA - The Lion’s Forces Details Revealed:
Columbia based power metal act ENERGEMA would like to announce the release of its debut album The Lion’s Forces on June 28, 2016 via Sleaszy Rider Records. ENERGEMA released the first single off the album, “The Lion’s Forces”, in January of this year.
The ENERGEMA lyrics are based upon The Chronicles of Narnia written by C.S. Lewis.
ENERGEMA was founded by composer and guitarist Nicolas Waldo, who has recorded six full-length albums and two EP releases as a solo artist. He also has one full-length album, one EP and three singles to his credit as part of the power metal band VORPAL NOMAD.
The Lion’s Forces was recorded at Yara Records and Meggido Records Studio in Armenia City and Bogota City in Columbia. Nicolas Waldo and ENERGEMA produced the album.
Rounding out the ENERGEMA line up is vocalist Alejandro Pinzon, rhythm guitarist Andres Parada and bassist Daniel Pinzon.
The Lion’s Forces includes nine powerful tracks for fans of GAMMA RAY, HELLOWEEN and IMPELLITTERI.
The Lion’s Forces track listing:
1. “Virtus Autem Divina (Overture)
2. “Eternity”
3. “The Lion’s Forces”
4. “It’s Time”
5. “Fall’s Of Babylon”
6. “Exodo”
7. “Gog & Magog”
8. “Ancient Rebellion”
9. “Getsemani”
Sleaszy Rider Records online: www.sleaszyrider.com/index2.html
ENERGEMA online: www.facebook.com/energemaband
INNERWISH - “Machines Of Fear” Video Released:
Press Release / Athens, Greece based melodic metal band INNERWISH has released a video to the track “Machines Of Fear” from their new self-titled album. InnerWish, which is available on CD, 2 LP, cassette tape and as a digital download, was released March 18, 2016 via Ulterium Records in Europe and North America. Bickee Music issued the album in Japan on March 30th, 2016.
The live footage of the video was recorded during INNERWISH's appearance at the Metal Hammer live party Vol. 2, which took place at Fuzz Live Music Club in Athens, Greece on December 26, 2015.
InnerWish was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Peter In De Betou (ARCH ENEMY, OPETH, AMON AMARTH). Album artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, XANDRIaA) and the design was done by Jan Yrlund (KORPIKLAANI, APOCALYPTICA, MANOWAR).
InnerWish track listing:
1. “Roll The Dice”
2. “Broken”
3. “Modern Babylon”
4. “Machines Of Fear”
5. “Needles In My Mind”
6. “My World On Fire”
7. “Rain Of A Thousand Years”
8. “Serenity”
9. “Sins Of The Past”
10. “Through My Eyes”
11. “Zero Ground”
12. “Cross The Line”
13. “Tame The Seven Seas”
Link to the music video for "Modern Babylon" at YouTube: https://youtu.be/mjRZCq01VSA
Link to the lyric video for "Needles In My Mind" at YouTube: https://youtu.be/7_l1lJPS-a4
Stream "Rain Of A Thousand Years" at YouTube: https://youtu.be/sfdla3ZsbEE
Stream "Tame The Seven Seas" at YouTube: https://youtu.be/8dUx0E26xB8
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/innerwishofficial
NEWS BRIEFS
* Jimmy P. Brown answers questions about the history of DELIVERANCE, Part 1 & Part 2: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsRGmzVmRLo & www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoX3q7lZt4c
* SOLDIER live in Oakland, California at The Omni in December 1987, Part 1, Part 2 & Part 3: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fm-Evhel5zw, www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQjBcdiHgzc & www.youtube.com/watch?v=-H5XRNmhCX0
* “Area 51”, Robert Sweet drum solo (from FINAL AXE - Beyond Hell’s Gate): www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Ua7cHTFNCk
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
HALCYON WAY Signs With Alpha Omega Management:
Press Release / Alpha Omega Management has announced the signing of US hard rock/metal band HALCYON WAY to its roster.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia and founded in 2001, HALCYON WAY is the ultimate example of blue-collar work ethic, self-reliant bootstrapping, and hard work and perseverance in spite of nearly insurmountable odds. The band has released three albums worldwide through Nightmare Records/Sony RED, and performed in a dozen countries and counting. HALCYON WAY 's sound cannot be neatly slotted into any sub-category of metal; but it can be described as heavy, catchy, technical, and above all, focused on mature song craft. Currently the band is working on their fifth album.
HALCYON WAY comments: “HW are super stoked to be working with Tim and Alex at Alpha Omega and the rest of the crew, and believe that this new partnership will help HW climb up to the next level. We’re hard at work writing the follow up to our 2014 album Conquer, and hope to be in the studio by the end of the summer. We have a few super cool tours in early stages of negotiations, and we hope to make some big announcements on that front soon.”
Alpha Omega Management adds: "We're so thrilled to welcome these hard working guys in HALCYON WAY to our family! Their attitude on stage talks a clear language; these guys are here to stay and conquer new frontiers! Stay tuned for next announcements!"
Furthermore, HALCYON WAY announce that they have parted ways with the band's long-time drummer Ernie Topran, and announce the replacement for upcoming dates:
"We are sad to say that we have amicably parted ways with our longtime friend and drummer Ernie Topran, who has been with us for nearly a decade behind the drums. He’s a great player and friend of us, there was no drama at all, and we wish him the absolute best in the next chapter of his musical career. He’s been a huge part of the HW family for a long time, and his unique drumming style helped take our material to the next level.
“Taking over behind the throne for all of our upcoming dates is Aaron Baumoel, who is a veteran of the Atlanta metal scene. He’s a killer drummer and although we are sad to see Ernie go, we’re firing on all cylinders with Aaron rocking the kit.”
Ernie’s statement on leaving: “I am announcing my departure from HALCYON WAY. The band has been a great part of my life for the past nine years but I feel it's time to move on musically. The HW guys are my bros and I truly wish them all well. I had a great time on tour with QUEENSYRCHE this January/February and it was great to see my friends and fans across the USA one last time with HW and I hope to see you all again soon in the near future. Until then, you can check out my website for tour dates and info on other projects and bands I'm working with: www.ernietopran.com Thanks everyone for your years of support and I'll see you in one form or another!”
Alpha Omega Management online: www.facebook.com/OfficialAlphaOmegaManagement
HALCYON WAY online: www.halcyonway.com & www.facebook.com/halcyonway
MALCHUS Joins Roxx Records Roster:
Press Release / Roxx Records is very excited to announce our latest release, which we bring to you all the way from Poland. Please join us as we welcome Polish heavy metal band MALCHUS to the Roxx Records roster. Never ones to be confined to a traditional framework of heavy metal music, MALCHUS is an action movie for your ears!
Hardcore-metal riffs interwoven with melodic transitions, light and dark themes which are blended together effortlessly across all of the tracks on their brand new Roxx Records debut entitled The Evil House. This brand new release brings big drums, big riffs, big hooks and some very catchy metal anthems, with each release this band just gets better and better!
The Evil House is a concept album, which documents the dark descent of a young frustrated Pole’s soul, and the lyrics relate to his spiritual journey, while focusing on his everyday struggles against adversity. Malchus have been torch bearers for the Polish heavy metal music scene for the last 11 years, but on this, their latest and 4th full length release, we get the band’s first album recorded completely in the English language.
The brand new single “But Deliver Us” is now streaming, take a listen and enjoy as we get ready to bring you the entire story of ‘The Evil House’
Releasing worldwide on July 15, 2016 with pre orders now live. All pre orders will come with a very special bonus promotional item photo of the band.
The Evil House track listing:
1. “The Enemy No 1”
2. “The Evil House”
3.
“77”
4. “Eyes Open”
5. “From Dust”
6. “Mother”
7. “Tripudium”
8. “But Deliver Us”
9. “Creed”
10. “Winter”
MALCHUS, The Evil House pre-order: http://roxxrecords.storenvy.com/products/17058270-malchus-the-evil-house-2016
MALCHUS online: www.facebook.com/malchuspl
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Infinity”, new song from upcoming AMOS album entitled Jade: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViStEsUUdX8
Jade track listing: “Still Believe”, “Devotion”, “Called From The Dark”, “Stranger Love”, “Lost Essence”, “Surrender”, “Infinity”, “Jade”, “Prodigal Girl”, “Wait For You”
Jade is scheduled for release on June 21, 2016.
* CROSSFORCE live at Metal Mardi Gras 1987, Part 1 & Part 2: www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5LwupQ4xzk & www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wkDOvINqI8
* PLACE OF SKULLS is in the process of re-issuing its debut album Nailed, an original 2002 release. According to the group, the album will be remixed and include bonus material in addition to being available as a limited edition LP. PLACE OF SKULLS is also in the process of writing and rehearsing new material.
INTERVIEWS
New PHILADELPHIA interview online:
Angelic Warlord had the recent opportunity to interview Philadelphia guitarist Phil Scholling and vocalist/bassist Brian Clark, who go into detail about the group’s beginnings, what led it to reform following a thirty year hiatus and details as it pertains to Warlord. Following is an excerpt:
What are your feelings about Warlord? Are you happy about the way the album turned out?
Phil Scholling: I’m very pleased with how it turned out. It was 30 years later than what we’d originally intended but better late than never. For me the challenge was trying to go back and sort of get into that musical mindset again. I really haven’t played or listened much to that style of music during the years the band had been apart. The biggest challenge to me was could I write in that style again and play it authentically
Read full interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
NARNIA Release New Video & Single, “Reaching For The Top”:
Press Release / NARNIA is finally back for the metal attack. Celebrating 20 years as a band, they are back with a brand new studio album, scheduled for worldwide release on September 16, 2016. To follow up the new album they plan to visit as many countries as possible, to meet new and old fans.
Today (June 3rd, 2016), the first single “Reaching For The Top”, taken from the upcoming 7th studio album entitled Narnia, hits the market, together with a promo video produced by Mats Vassfjord (Grand Design& 220 Volt).
On the new self-titled 2016 album NARNIA re-visits their melodic roots but with an updated sound, creating a perfect blend; a powerful production by CJ Grimmark, mixed and mastered by Thomas “Plec” Johansson.
NARNIA line up 2016:
Christian Liljegren – Lead Vocals
CJ Grimmark - Guitars, Keyboards & Backing Vocals
Andreas “Habo” Johansson - Drums
Martin Härenstam - Keyboards
Andreas Passmark - Bass
Throughout the years, NARNIA has been established as one of the leading forces in melodic, neoclassical metal, with a strong reputation of being a great live act that always delivers. And so it continues… The fans are asking for more and the band is hungrier than ever.
The new, self-titled full-length album will be released worldwide on CD, Vinyl LP and on digital formats, on September 16, 2016.
Upcoming NARNIA tour dates:
August 19th: Hope Night Festival - Sävsjö, Sweden
September 23rd: Scenen Sofiehof Underjord - Jönköping, Sweden
September 24th: Nalen Klubb (Alcazar) - Stockholm, Sweden
September 25th: iNTiMAN - Västerås, Sweden
November 5th: Blast Of Eternity - Neckarsulm, Germany
November 11th: Brainstorm Festival - Apeldoorn, Netherlands
More tour dates will be announced soon.
The band is excited about the future and eager to unveil a new chapter.
NARNIA online: www.narniatheband.com & www.facebook.com/narniatheband
ELI PRINSEN Leaves SACRED WARRIOR:
As reported by the group on its Facebook page (June 1, 2016):
Statement from ELI PRINSEN:
"Hello friends, families, and fans of SACRED WARRIOR. Today, it is with a very heavy heart that I must let you all know that after a lot of thought and prayer, I have decided to step down as the band’s lead vocalist.
“It has become increasingly difficult for me to find the necessary time and availability that the band needs and deserves to keep moving forward.
“I want to thank all of the fans that gave me their support and acceptance as the bands new vocalist when I joined four years ago. I had some very big shoes to fill then and also, being a fan of the band, I knew it would be tough for some fans to accept a new voice. The welcome and reception I received was overwhelmingly positive and I really appreciate every kind word ever spoken or printed about me.
“Steve, Bruce, Tony, Joe, Tom, and Jr. I want you to know that I will forever treasure these past four years, especially the year and experiences we all shared during the recording process of Waiting In Darkness. Those were some seriously prayer filled times and there were miraculous victories with the health of Bruce, Tony, and Joe. God’s spirit is all over that album, and I feel so privileged to have been a part of it.
“Although this is a sad time for me, I am really looking forward to all that God has in store for SACRED WARRIOR in the very near future. The new material is epic and the fans (including me) are going to absolutely love it.
“Thank you, I love you, may God bless you all.”
Response from SACRED WARRIOR:
“We know the main question that you all probably have, and the answer is NO, SACRED WARRIOR is NOT breaking up, we have tons of new music mostly finished (sans vocals), and we are VERY excited about the upcoming new record! Other than that, we are relying on God's good timing to see what is next, and when things will fall into place.
“We also ask that you take Eli's words at face value... we love him, and there is no bad blood here... nothing "happened". We wish him all the best, and pray God's massive blessings on everything he pursues... visit the FB page for his vocal training business and give it a Like to stay connected with him: www.facebook.com/EliPrinsensHVT
“Join us in thanking Eli for his epic contribution to Waiting In Darkness, and in wishing him well for the future... thanks Warriors, and God Bless!”
SACRED WARRIOR online: www.sacredwarrior.net & www.facebook.com/sacredwarriorband
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Apocalypse Calls”, debut single from CELL 9, new band featuring VENI DOMINE brothers Torbjorn (guitars & lead vocals) Thomas Weinesjo (drums): www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-WGiFLnrqY
* “It Is Finished”, sample of new song from JOSHUA’S CREED: http://joshuascreed.bandcamp.com/track/it-is-finished
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
MILLENNIAL REIGN To Headline NTX MetalFest 2016:
Press Release / Get ready, Christian Metal Heads! The first annual NTX MetalFest (North Texas) will make its debut on Labor Day, September 3, 2016 at 5:30 PM. The festival will be held at The Door Dallas with a line up that includes Ulterium Records recording artist MILLENNIAL REIGN along with opening acts DIVINE RETRIBUTION, VISION RED, RAISING ABEL, MEGALIFE and SLAVES WAGE.
NTX MetalFest exists to bring together the heavy metal community, in all of its persuasions and variations, for the purpose of experiencing the presence, the power and the person of Jesus Christ, who lived, died and rose again from the dead to give life to all who would call upon His name! (ROMANS 10:13)
NTX MetalFest line up:
MILLENNIAL REIGN
DIVINE RETRIBUTION
VISION RED
RAISING ABEL
MEGALIFE
SLAVES WAGE
Location & Directions: www.thedoordallas.com
Tickets: www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1200391?_ga=1.140899252.761246765.1464121998
Further Reading: http://facebook.com/ntxmetalfest
WALES ROAD - “Your Words Are Killing Me” Video Premier:
Press Release / Rochester, New York based hard rock act WALES ROAD produced a video to the ‘Final Vinyl’ version to the track “Your Words Are Killing Me”. The song comes from the group’s most recent full-length album Wounds & Whispers, which it independently released via Spun Records on June 17, 2015.
Although the WALES ROAD lineup has varied down through the years, one thing has remained consistent: Vocalist & guitarist Tommy Wales is a man who is passionate about reflecting his faith in the midst of a fallen world through his audio art. Wales draws upon his vast experience, including 18 studio albums, 3 live albums and one DVD released over a twenty-year period, to create in Wounds & Whispers ‘9 songs of healing art on audio canvas’.
“Your Worlds Are Killing Me” represents five minutes of hard rock that deals with verbal abuse, bullying and ultimately forgiveness.
WALES ROAD, which describes itself as ‘blues based metal with Christian frosting’, borrowed the Wounds & Whispers title from the track "Way" off the HB Frozen Inside album (released on Bullroser Records in 2008). Former WALES ROAD bassist and keyboardist Thomas Sluberski conceived the album artwork.
The 80% Angelic Warlord review of Wounds & Whispers described WALES ROAD as “(taking) a foundation of straightforward hard rock and (aligning) it with heavy doses of blues based and melodic hard rock. Throw in the occasional traditional blues and progressive aspect and the upshot is a band in which a lot is going on musically and that is difficult to pigeonhole as a result.”
Wounds & Whispers track listing:
1. “Tears In A Bottle”
2. “Wounds & Whispers”
3. “Your Words Are Killing Me”
4. “She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not”
5. “Leave Me Standing”
6. “Why Does It Rain (On The Sad Days)?”
7. “This Side Of Eternity”
8. “Tomorrow ‘N’ Today”
9. “The Shakedown Sessions Volume II”
WALES ROAD online: www.walesroad.com & www.facebook.com/walesroad
NEWS BRIEFS
* BIG CHRIS & D’BARE BONES BAND is cigar box guitarist Chris Dickens' (MISSION OF ONE)” new band: www.facebook.com/dbarebonesband
* The upcoming BIOGENESIS album, A Decadence Divine, will featuring 11 new tracks along with a surprise cover tune. Look for the album to be complete by the end of the year. The new BIO line up with be making its live debut in Dayton, Ohio on July 23rd.
* CELL 9 is the new band featuring VENI DOMINE brothers Torbjorn (guitars & lead vocals) Thomas Weinesjo (drums). Bassist Niklas Wilhelmsson rounds out the power trio. “Apocalypse Calls”, the first single from the group, will be released on June1st,
Further details: www.facebook.com/Cell9theband
* TEMPEST cover of REZ BAND classic “Military Man”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqRQh5OO4jI
The group is currently at work on a new song entitled "Guitarza Rawkin'", which will feature guest guitar appearances from George Ochoa (DELIVERANCE, RECON, WORLDVIEW), Rex Scott (X-SINNER, ZION, GX PROJECT), Bill Menchen (THE SEVENTH POWER, TITANIC) and Corey Steger (UNDER OATH, ARCHER). Rex Scott will be handling lead vocals and Rick Armstrong (WHITECROSS, XALT) and RYAN O’NEAL (GREEN JELLO, DOGS OF SOCIETY) bass and drums, respectively.
FEATURED REVIEWS
BLACK FATE - Deliverance Of Soul
Originally released on Asiral Records but re-issued with new cover art by Ulterium Records in the spring of 2016, Deliverance Of Soul finds Black Fate settling into a signature melodic metal meets power metal groove in which it combines intrinsic melody and clear cut heaviness in just the right amounts either way. Read Full Review >>
LEVITICUS - 35 Years Anniversary: In His Service
35 Years Anniversary: In His Services proves a bargain at $39.99 when factoring the quality to the product at hand: improved re-mastered versions to the four Leviticus studio albums and professionally done packaging with a detailed mini booklet. Read Full Review >>
PEO - Welcome To The Party
Welcome To The Party, the ninth solo album from Swedish vocalist Peo Pettersson (aka PEO), takes AOR hooks and sounds and injects them with a bit more guitar driven muscle than is commonly associated with the genre. Read Full Review >>
PERPETUAL LEGACY - A New Symphony for Him
For classically trained soprano female vocals; symphonic orchestration, keyboards and choirs that back a more traditional metal set up of guitars, bass and drums; and atmospheric if not complex musical arrangements, then symphonic metal is often the most practical choice. Read Full Review >>
PHILADELPHIA - Warlord
We were skeptical at first of Warlord, the spring of 2016 comeback album of Philadelphia, but the veteran hard rock act expertly manages to be every bit capable today as it was during its mid-eighties prime. Read Full Review >>
RECON - Behind Enemy Lines (Roxx Records re-issue)
With its name short for both reconnaissance and reconciliation, Recon arose out of the ashes of defunct Southern California bands De Roque, Prophet and Seventh Thunder when founding members guitarist George Ochoa, vocalist Vett Robers and drummer John Christianson formed a partnership. Read Full Review >>
VARIOUS ARTISTS - A Celebration Of The Death And Resurrection
Just when I thought I couldn’t get interested in yet another compilation album, along comes the spring of 2016 Roxx Records various artists offering entitled A Celebration Of The Death And Resurrection. Read Full Review >>
WHITECROSS - Nineteen Eighty Seven (Retroactive re-issue Gold Edition)
In the mid-eighties, Whitecross began an odyssey that transformed it from a relatively unknown independent band with a self-financed cassette demo to its credit to one of the more highly regarded and successful acts to arrive out of the burgeoning ‘white metal’ scene of the time. Read Full Review >>
ARTICLES
Angelic Warlord Top 26 Metal & Hard Rock Albums Of 2015 - REVISED
I like to define 2015 as a year in which the metal and hard rock scenes experienced both veteran acts reassert themselves and talented newcomers began to make their presence felt. Read Full Article >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
TRUE STRENGTH release sophomore album, Steel Evangelist:
Press Release / TRUE STRENGTH digitally released its sophomore album Steel Evangelist on Pentecost, May 15, 2016. The album is available through CD Baby, Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, Rhapsody, XBOX Live and many other fine digital retailers. Similar to TRUE STRENGTH debut full length The Cross Will Always Prevail from 2014, all digital sales of the album will be donated to the International Christian Concern (www.persecution.org), which assists persecuted Christians and their families around the world.
Steel Evangelist features 10 songs and nearly 70 minutes of music. The physical CD version to the album is expected to follow later this summer.
Changes to the TRUE STRENGTH line up for Steel Evangelist include the departure of original lead vocalist Rus Gib and drummer Chris Clark, both of whom had prior commitments that prevented them from participating on the album. Fronting Steel Evangelist is founding member and rhythm guitarist, bassist and songwriter Ryan “The Archangel” Darnell, while also returning from the debut album is lead guitarist Josh Cirbo. Ryan Mey, who served as audio mastering engineer on The Cross Will Always Prevail, handles drums.
Steel Evangelist was recorded, produced, mixed and mastered by Robert Sands.
The album can be previewed and purchased at CD Baby: http://cdbaby.com/cd/truestrength2
Steel Evangelist track listing:
1. “No Cheek Left to Turn”
2. “Steel Evangelist”
3. “Cilician Gates”
4. “Don't Take the Mark of the Beast”
5. “The Fall of the Ripest Apple”
6. “Gabriel the Archangel”
7. “Woe to the Sons of Ishmael”
8. “Blood Waters the Cedars of Lebanon”
9. “Twenty-One Martyrs Clothed in Orange”
10. “The War We Fight”
© Copyright 2015-2016 TRUE STRENGTH
TRUE STRENGTH line up:
Ryan "The Archangel" Darnell - Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar & Bass
Josh Cirbo - Lead Guitar
Ryan Mey - Drums
TRUE STRENGTH online: www.facebook.com/pages/True-Strength
NEWS BRIEFS
* Alice Cooper discusses his faith in an online interview at Viral Believer: www.viralbeliever.com/news/the-godfather-of-shock-rock-comes-home-to-his-heavenly-father
* Power Rock Podcast interview with guitarist Bill Menchen: http://powerrockpodcasts.com/interview-bill-menchen-2016
* CHAINED, previously unreleased live version to “Drained”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8-yHGLBKdE
* PŸLON update regarding new album A Lament (Facebook - May 18, 2016): “The CD went to the replica factory last week! so we hope to get it in our hands in 2 weeks and are looking for a release date in July! The Digipack will have a 12-side booklet and not 8 as written before. The running time is 48:40 for 8 songs.”
INTERVIEWS
New interview with Alan Zaring online:
In a recent interview with Classic Christian Rock Zone, THE WORLD WILL BURN guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Alan Zaring goes into detail about his musical background, partnership with vocalist Dale Thompson and recording the group’s debut album Severity. Following is an excerpt:
What is the purpose of THE WORLD WILL BURN?
Dale and I really did it to be a creative outlet for our talents. It has grown into its own now. It is still growing. Who knows where it will end up. If we accomplish anything, I hope we push heavy music in a more creative direction, entertain our listeners, and take them on a journey that is both enjoyable and enlightening.
Read Full Interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
KING JAMES Announce Maximus Re-issue:
Press Release / KING JAMES has been very busy this year with the re-launch of its most recent album, Maximus from 2013, in addition to lining up some special shows this summer and fall.
The group just completing work on a re-mastered version to Maximus and have made it available both digitally and on CD. The Limited Edition CD comes in a beautiful 6-panel digi-pak with new cover art and an additional bonus track in the form of a Spanish version to the track “Miracles”.
KING JAMES is also planning to get out there and do some special live performances in 2016. The group has several shows in the works and is currently looking to book additional shows. Please send all offers for KING JAMES live appearances to Dewayne Jenkins at DeLu Productions at: deluproductions@gmail.com
The CD version to Maximus is now available via several online outlets, including Christian Metal Distro. Those who are interested in carrying Maximus or have any distribution opportunities please contact Bill Bafford at Christian Metal Distro at: bill@roxxproductions.com
KING JAMES represents the talents of guitarist Rex Carroll (WHITECROSS) and vocalist Jimi Bennett (SACRED FIRE), whom met in 1993 at the Kingdom Bound Festival in Buffalo, New York and founded the group shortly thereafter. With drummer Robert Sweet and bassist Tim Gaines (both STRYPER) rounding out the rhythm section, KING JAMES recorded the melodic rock and AOR of its 1994 self-titled debut album for Star Song Records. The group later signed with Viva Records for 1997 sophomore release The Fall, which took a heavier hard rock and metal meets the modern based approach.
KING JAMES regrouped in 2011 when it signed with Madison Line Records for Maximus, which saw release on June 11, 2013.
A video for the KING JAMES track “Waiting For The King” can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Sc0X-7tihU
Maximus track listing:
1. “The Void”
2. “Hard Road To Go”
3. “Mississippi Kidd”
4. “X MaXimus”
5. “Waiting For The King”
6. “A New Beginning”
7. “Miracles”
8. “The Highlander - In Exile”
9. “The Prisoner”
10. “Just As I Am (Lamb of God)”
11. “Desperate”
12. “Miracles (Acoustic Version)”
13. “Miracles (Spanish Version)”
KING JAMES online: www.kingjamesband.com & www.facebook.com/KingJamesBand
SWEET CRYSTAL - “Power And The Glory” Lost Footage:
Detroit, Michigan based SWEET CRYSTAL has just unearthed footage from its 1987 video shoot for “Power And The Glory”, the title track to its six song debut EP Power-N-Glory from 1985. The footage, seen for the first time in thirty years, comes courtesy of Doug "The Doc Of Rock" Podell and his breakthrough 80's TV show The Beat.
SWEET CRYSTAL is a very rare group of musicians. Since it's founding, the core trio of Marq Andrew Speck (lead vocals, keyboards), Bill Blatter (guitar, vocals) and Steve Wieser (drums) has remained together in pursuit of a message, a music ministry that continues to this day. That’s a lifetime of quality hard, progressive rock music; of honing their skills as musicians and artists and generating a respectable fan base. Perhaps most importantly, a continuing quest refining their sound and standing on the front lines of the Michigan Christian rock scene, even before that particular branch of music had a name.
The multiple Detroit Music Award winning band recently completed mixing the tracks to its upcoming EP, 5 Carat Rock, and have sent them to Scott Hull at MasterDisk for mastering. Chuck Alkazian of Pearl Sound Studios produced and engineered the album. 5 Carat Rock is scheduled for release in June of this year.
SWEET CRYSTAL released its most recent EP Quad in the spring of 2015. Prior to that, the group put out the full-length efforts III and Still Standing... from 2010 and 2003, respectively.
SWEET CRYSTAL was recently nominated for 5 awards at the 2016 Detroit Music Awards: Outstanding Gospel/Christian Act, Outstanding Gospel/Christian Musician (Marq Andrew Speck), Outstanding Gospel/Christian Recording (“Quad” / “Him Alone”), Outstanding Gospel Christian Songwriter (Marq Andrew Speck) & Outstanding Gospel/Christian Vocalist (Marq Andrew Speck).
5 Carat Rock track listing:
1. “Even Now”
2. “Come As We Are”
3. “Jericho”
4. “Can’t Turn Back”
5. “When He Returns”
6. “Nothing Here (For You To Fear)”
7. “Home Sweet Home”
8. “Sgt. Penney 1945”
SWEET CRYSTAL online: www.sweetcrystal.com & www.facebook.com/SweetCrystalBand
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Inside The Beast”, new song from BIOGENESIS”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhOv3A58jSc
Look for “inside The Beast” to appear on the group’s upcoming third album A Decadence Divine.
* The new HERO line up includes:
Michael Hero - Lead vocals & Guitar:
Emanuel Wärja - Guitar & Vocals
Henrik Deleskog - Bass
Daniel Mouton - Drums & Vocals
The group’s new album Miracles is scheduled to be released in 2016.
* Swiss doom metal act PŸLON has finished recording its new (and seventh overall) album, A Lament. Long-term vocalist Matt Brand will be fronting the project, who takes over for Jordan Cutajar (NOMAD SON) from the groups 2014 release Homo Homini Lupus. Guest guitarists include Ian Arkley (MY SILENT WAKE) and Damir Eskic.
Song titles include “Cosmic Lizard”, “Desolation Is Divine”, “The Day After The War”, “Pantodynamos”, “Lazarus”, “The Lone Rider”, “Fair Haven Of Thesterness” & “A Lament”.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
PASTOR BRAD To Storm The Gates:
Press Relase / Bay City, Michigan based minister and guitarist PASTOR BRAD to release Christian metal and hard rock parody album entitled Storm The Gates on July 4, 2016:
The first song off the album, a cover of Kiss’ “Detroit Rock City” entitled “Jesus Rock City”, is currently streaming at YouTube.
Storm The Gates is a collection of 9 classic hard rock & hair metal songs from the 70s and 80s- re-covered by PASTOR BRAD with lyrics that honor Jesus Christ and proclaim the Good News of the Gospel loud and proud! Legally, these are "parody" projects, but musically and spiritually, they are tributes to the musicians who inspired me to become a musician, and to my Savior to whom I owe everything!
Commented PASTOR BRAD: “My two fold goal was to: 1) honor the music and musicianship that inspired me to become a musician, and 2) honor Jesus with the message that changed my life for eternity! In my heart, I am satisfied that I’ve accomplished both. All that’s left now is to share it with the world.”
Further details from the artist regarding “Jesus Rock Solid”: “KISS was a giant musical influence on me as a kid back in the 70s. When Alive II came out - with that amazing shot of KISS in concert spread across the entire center of that double album - I was one-hundred-percent mesmerized. If you're a fan, you know that track one on that album was “Detroit Rock City” --and it's had a special place in my musical influence catalogue ever since!
“The original song was about a kid who dies in a car accident (according to the stories I've heard) on his way to a KISS concert. The lyrics to “Jesus Rock Solid” proclaim the Lordship and majesty of the Author of Life- who will return some day to judge the living and the dead and usher in a glorious new creation.”
Storm The Gates track listing:
1. “Jesus Rock Solid” - “Detroit Rock City”, March 15 1976, KISS
2. “Son of Man” - “Iron Man”, Sept. 18, 1970, BLACK SABBATH
3. “Living Fountain” - “Man On The Silver Mountain”, Aug. 4 1975, RAINBOW
4. “Touch Of Love” - “Touch Too Much”, July 27, 1979, AC/DC
5. “Rockin’ For The Good News” - “Living After Midnight”, April 14, 1980, JUDAS PRIEST
6. “Jerusalem 3pm” - “Dallas 1pm”, Sept. 1, 1980, SAXON
7. “The Dragon’s Slain” - “Crazy Train”, Sept. 12, 1980, Ozzy
8. “Jesus Said” - “Metal Health”, March 11, 1983, QUIET RIOT
9. “Free Will” - “Say What You Will”, May, 1983, FASTWAY
PASTOR BRAD online: www.guitarjams.net & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks
INNERWISH - “Tame The Seven Seas” Streaming Online:
Press Release / Athens, Greece melodic metal band INNERWISH released via Ulterium Records their fifth album entitled InnerWish on March 18, 2016. Bickee Music issued InnerWish in Japan on March 30, 2016. The album is available on CD, Double LP, Tape and digital download.
The InnerWish track “Tame The Seven Seas” is currently streaming at YouTube.
InnerWish was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Peter In De Betou (ARCH ENEMY, OPETH, AMON AMARTH). Album artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, XANDRIaA) and the design was done by Jan Yrlund (KORPIKLAANI, APOCALYPTICA, MANOWAR).
InnerWish track listing:
1. “Roll The Dice”
2. “Broken”
3. “Modern Babylon”
4. “Machines Of Fear”
5. “Needles In My Mind”
6. “My World On Fire”
7. “Rain Of A Thousand Years”
8. “Serenity”
9. “Sins Of The Past”
10. “Through My Eyes”
11. “Zero Ground”
12. “Cross The Line”
13. “Tame The Seven Seas”
The song "Rain Of A Thousand Years" from the album can also be streamed at YouTube. https://youtu.be/sfdla3ZsbEE
A lyric video for the song “Needles In My Mind” can be viewed as well: https://youtu.be/7_l1lJPS-a4
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/innerwishofficial
OBLIVION MYTH Completes Work On New Album, Inside The Mirror:
As reported by the group at its ReverbNation Blog:
Today is a big day for the band. The long journey of making our 2nd studio album is finally ended. We have delivered our masters and artwork to the printers for CD production. Soon after we'll iron out our digital distribution and sales online as well.
It's been over 9 months really- just like having a baby it seems. Some obstacles and some surprises along the way. Who knew quoting a Bible verse comes with copyright issues? Talk about moneychangers in the temple! Well, you roll with it. Some versions are more lenient than others, so you use that version, although that means maybe the poetry of the language that attracted you to a certain verse gets changed.
June 18 2016 is going to be our CD release party and for various reasons we have chosen Main Street club in Murfreesboro, TN, about 20 miles south of Nashville. Main Street is a very large, nice, fun club to play at. It can hold more people than a lot of the clubs up in Nashville, and we are friendly with ownership and the booking agent there. We do consider ourselves a Nashville band, but opportunity, timing, and such dictated that we have our CD release in the best venue available, and that was undeniably Main Street.
80-odd hours to record. 200-odd hours to mix and master. 9 months of working on weekends on the recordings, the CD art, the concept, endless discussions, brainstorming, and that is just the CD production part. We spent the whole summer prior taking these 11 new songs and recording them as demos, seeing what we had, so that we could go into the studio prepared to track them. it was wise and useful - we did no writing in the studio - the songs were ready to track when we walked in, and we knew what we wanted to do with them.
Can't thank our recording engineer Curtis Erdek, and our producer Andy Freeman enough. They both did remarkable jobs. Curtis gave us an environment where things ran like an well-oiled machine and we were able to do our tracking with a minimal of delays, technical issues, or anything distracting. He was a great coach and gave us the feedback we needed about whether or not something needed to be done again, done better, or not done quite like that at all..
And then Andy Freeman took this jellyfish of files and tracks and sonic fury and proceeded to beat it into something resembling a professional album release. He added keyboards, orchestration, backup vocals, filled in all the bare corners and plain walls. The end result is amazing, and it makes you appreciate what a team effort it truly is to create a music CD.
We had a couple of revisions with him and a couple of mix and masters, and the 2nd one he delivered really knocked our socks off - it is the one you'll be hearing June 18th. I think it's heavy as lead and bright as the sun!
At times like this you reflect back on where you've been and what you did to reach this point. Knowing that I'm finally going to have a CD release for the first time in my struggling-mostly music career is a pretty sweet feeling. Doesn't matter to me that it probably won't go platinum (wink)... the sheer amount of effort it took to will this thing into being was plenty of work, that holding in our hands will be reward enough.
"Inside The Mirror" is finally done. And now my thoughts will begin to turn to the sequel, to the band's 3rd studio album, that I very much want to start on this fall, and make it an annual effort. I've already got 3 or 4 songs that I think are going to turn out really nice... and i know Keith's song backlog is kind of like Santa Claus' gift bag on his sleigh. There's always another one in there...
OBLIVION MYTH online: http://oblivionmyth.wix.com/oblivionmyth, www.reverbnation.com/oblivionmyth & www.facebook.com/OblivionMythFanpage
NEWS BRIEFS
* Footage of JACOBS DREAM performing a new song entitled “Embers Of Torment” at the 2016 Elements Of Rock Festival in Uster, Switzerland. “Embers Of Torment” is set to appear on the groups upcoming album Where Vultures Gather.
* KING JAMES has re-mastered and independently re-issued its third album Maximus on CD with a bonus track not available on the original version. New cover art is included as part of the 6-panel Digi-Pak packaging. Maximus was originally released by Madison Line Records in 2013 as a digital download only.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BLACK FATE - “Blood Red Sky” From Deliverance Of Soul Re-Issue Streaming Online:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are proud to announce the re-issue of Deliverance Of Soul from the Greek melodic metal band BLACK FATE. The re-issue will be released on April 29, 2016 in Europe and North America.
The track “Blood Red Sky” is streaming at YouTube at the link above.
Deliverance of Soul was originally released in 2009, and it was the first BLACK FATE album to feature Vasilis Georgiou on lead vocals. Georgiou also fronted the most recent BLACK FATE release Between Visions & Lies (Ulterium Records), which received excellent feedback from around the world in being described as a mix between KAMELOT, IRON MAIDEN, DREAM THEATER and CONCEPTION.
The re-issue was re-mastered by Erik Tordsson (END OF SEPTEMBER) and features new artwork by Jan Yrlund (APOCALYPTICA, KORPIKLAANI, LEAH).
Deliverance Of Soul track listing:
1. “Children of Aniramas”
2. “Dying Freedom”
3. “Blood Red Sky”
4. “Angry Silent Scream”
5. “The Conscience Of The Brave”
6. “Rain Of Paradise”
7. “If The Silence Was Gray”
8. “Wicked”
9. “Thorn In My Hand”
10. “Inner Warning Of My Soul”
11. “Fallen”
BLACK FATE lineup for Deliverance Of Soul:
Vasilis Georgiou – Lead Vocals
Ilias Tsintzilonis - Guitars
Giannis Theologis – Guitars
Achilleas Mochloulis - Keyboards
Albertos Oikonomou - Bass
Nikos Tsintzilonis - Drums
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
BLACK FATE online: www.facebook.com/blackfategreece
DIVINER - “Evilizer” Music Video Released:
Press Release / Athens, Greece based heavy metal band DIVINER just completed work on a music video for the track "Evilizer" from their debut album Fallen Empires, which it released last November through Ulterium Records.
Fallen Empires is a very strong heavy metal album that keeps the legacy from the genre but at the same time sounds new and inspired. Perfect for fans of bands like ACCEPT, DIO, JUDAS PRIEST and ICED EARTH! Mastered by Peter In de Betou (ARCH ENEMY, OPETH, AMON AMARTH).
Check out the lyric video for the song "Come Into My Glory" at YouTube: https://youtu.be/UVbxT0w3ZKo
Check out an album teaser for Fallen Empires at YouTube: https://youtu.be/HojjtXQTTvk
Diviner line up:
Yiannis Papanikolaou (ROCK ‘N’ ROLL CHILDREN, ex. INNERWISH) - Lead Vocals
Thimios Krikos (INNERWISH) - Guitar
George Maroulees (4BITTEN) - Guitar
Herc Booze (SIXFORNINE) - Bass
Fragiskos Samoilis (INNERWISH) - Drums
Fallen Empires track listing:
1. “Fallen Empires”
2. “Kingdom Come”
3. “Evilizer”
4. “Riders From The East”
5. “The Legend Goes On”
6. ”Come Into My Glory”
7. “Seven Gates”
8. “The Shadow And The Dark”
9. “Sacred War”
10. “Out In The Abyss”
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
DIVINER online: http://divinerband.com & www.facebook.com/Divinermetalband
Metal Obsession - A DVD Documentary:
Press Release / ROXX Records is very excited to be a part of the first installment of a brand new documentary series entitled Metal Obsession. Ever wonder what life was like through the eyes of a metal head? Or even better an over-zealous heavy metal fan and their collection? Well now you can visit deep into the heart of some metal fans from around the world as we take a special journey into the lives and the collections of some of the world’s most die-hard heavy metal fans.
Join us as we explore deep into their minds, lives and personal collections as we find out their likes, dislikes and what makes them rock. Explore many rare treasures from vinyl records, CDs, tapes, and all kinds of metal music from all over the world. As well as exploring the music catalogs from many mainstream artists you will also get to hear about many rare and obscure titles that may boggle your mind and get you thinking 'man I have got to find that for my own personal collection.'
Featuring many collectors and fans from all over the world, including Scott Waters (ULTIMATUM / ONCE DEAD), an avid collector, fan and heavy metal artist himself. Scott had this to say about the release, “There are many documentaries about the people who make the music. This is a documentary about the people who love the music. It’s the who, what, when, where and why of our obsession with collecting heavy metal records.”
Corey Johnson also an avid collector, fan and producer of this documentary had this to say about the release “This isn’t Behind the Music, this is behind the people. Re-discover the music from your past or feed an ongoing passion for all things heavy. Nostalgia, vinyl records and great stories, it’s all here.”
If this DVD does one thing it shows us that no matter what country or continent you live on, we are all the same. Music will always be a common denominator connecting us all, but for some of us that love and passion comes by way of one of the most criticized, frowned upon musical genre’s ever, Heavy Metal!
Check out this promo: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFobnWhDwZo
Then join us and take an 80-minute journey in to the life of a heavy metal collector, which also includes a ton of extras and bonus footage never before seen. This limited edition DVD pressing will be making its debut at this year's installment of the San Diego Heavy Metal Sap Meet on Saturday May 7, 2016 and then it will be officially released on Friday May 13, 2016
Visit www.roxxproductions.com for full details and pre order information.
NEWS BRIEFS
* Video blog from Jimmy P. Brown, who discusses a new DELIVERANCE album: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EzuzybwhMk
* Southern California Metal Fest footage:
BLOODGOOD performing “Out Of The Darnkess: www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1iZR46L2KM
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE performing “Round ‘N Round”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVqxzfloCeI
TEMPEST performing “Back To The Hill”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mM4G_hi2RHc
WORLDVIEW with special guest Les Carlsen: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSo29Batghc
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
PROJECT AEGIS Release Charity Single “Angel In The Ashes”:
Featured are contributions from ROB ROCK, LEAH and members of THEOCRACY, VANDROYA, SUNBURST and BLACK FATE.
Press Release / Ulterium Records is proud to announce the release of "Angel In the Ashes", an all-star charity track for sale with 100% of the income going to feed homeless and refugee families in Greece. The song is being released under the banner PROJECT AEGIS, and was composed by THEOCRACY songwriter and vocalist Matt Smith.
"Angel In the Ashes" features vocals by Rob Rock (solo, IMPELLITTERI), Daísa Munhoz (VANDROYA, SOULSPELL), Vasilis Georgiou (SUNBURST, BLACK FATE), Leah McHenry (LEAH) and Smith, as well as a guitar solo by Gus Drax (SUNBURST, BLACK FATE).
Markus Sigfridsson (DARKWATER, HARMONY) created the PROJECT AEGIS artwork.
PROJECT AEGIS previously released the charity single "Collide and Spark" in 2014, the proceeds from which went to feed the homeless in the Nashville, Tennessee area of the U.S.
"I've been wanting to do another charity single since we had such a great experience the first time around," says Smith. "The challenge was finding the time and the appropriate cause, as well as putting together a lineup worthy of the caliber of talent we had on the last song. I think we did it!"
"The song is about someone who decides to take that first step to help a person in a dark or dangerous situation. I was talking to some friends of mine who live in Greece, and every weekend they help feed the huge number of poor, homeless and refugee families in that area. It's a massive need, and the dollar you spend on this song can make a huge difference in providing a hot meal or a blanket for someone. It's a very worthy cause, and everyone involved in the track freely gave their time and talent to make this happen. We hope you enjoy it!"
"Angel In The Ashes" can be purchased at the links below:
Bandcamp: https://ulteriumrecords.bandcamp.com/track/angel-in-the-ashes
Amazon: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ECSUF9Q
SIGNUM REGIS - Chapter IV: The Reckoning Vinyl Edition Announced:
Press Release / Ulterium Records will release a LP edition of the latest SIGNUM REGIS album Chapter IV: The Reckoning. The LP will be strictly limited to 300 copies and is scheduled to be released on June 3, 2016.
Commented SIGNUM REGIST bassist Ronnie König:
"This release is not just about making the CD available on a different format. The album Chapter IV: The Reckoning was re-mixed and re-mastered specially for the vinyl release in order to maximize the listener experience. For the manufacturing, we used 24-bit, less compressed sound, which is more dynamic and pleasant for listening. Since the mix is also a bit different, fans might hear some nuances, that they haven't heard before. I believe, that those who liked the CD will love the LP."
Chapter IV: The Reckoning was mastered by Jens Bogren (SYMPHONY X, OPETH, ARCH ENEMY), while cover art was created by Jan Yrlund (DELAIN, APOCALYPTICA, KORPIKLAANI).
Chapter IV: The Reckoning LP track listing:
Side A:
1. “Quitters Never Win”
2. “The Voice In The Wilderness”
3. “The Magi”
4. “The Secret Of The Sea”
5. “When Freedom Fails”
Side B:
1. “Lost And Found”
2. “Prophet Of Doom”
3. “Tempter Of Evil”
4. “The Kingdom Of Heaven”
5. “Bells Are Tolling”
The LP is available for pre-order at the SIGNUM REGIS and Ulterium Records websites: http://signum-regis.com/?content=shop & www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com
Link to "Quitters Never Win" music video: https://youtu.be/VZb9vQ2PQU4
Link to "Lost And Found" lyric video: https://youtu.be/M9V_5GMODCI
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/signum.regis
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Consequences” is a new single from JOSHUA’S CREED available for free download: http://noisetrade.com/joshuascreed/joshuas-creed
* “A Mind Insane”, brand new track from the forthcoming STAIRWAY album Power And Glory: www.reverbnation.com/stairway/song/25752270-mind-insane-from-forthcoming-new
According to the group, mixing and mastering for Power And Glory has been completed and all tracks are compiled in their correct order. The album is scheduled for release on May 20, 2016.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
PEO To Release New Solo Album, Welcome To The Party:
Ninth solo album from LEVITICUS front man due on April 29, 2016:
Peo Pettersson has been active in the music recording business since his teens and involved in over 250 recordings to this date. It would be logic then that a solo album would offer a lot of influences and a great variety of styles, but on Welcome To The Party we’ll once again get pure AOR/melodic rock- also due to the new collaboration with songwriter and guitarist Roger Ljunggren (T’BELL, NIVA, GRAND ILLUSION).
The history of PEO starts with his first solo album Look What I’ve Started from 1995. After being in bands like LEVITICUS and AXIA, this was Peo Pettersson’s first solo effort where he teamed up with members from MASQUERADE, NIVA and other great musicians. This album in the meantime has become to be a sought after AOR /Melodic Rock classic. Many years and many albums later, Peo now has hooked up with Roger Ljunggren to make an album filled with classic melodic rock inspired by the heroes of the past.
Peo took care of the vocal, bass and keyboard parts on Welcome To The Party, while all guitars were handeld by Roger Ljunggren and drums by Tony Morra. The album was produced, mixed and mastered by Peo Pettersson at POP Production Studios between October to December 2015.
Welcome To The Party track listing:
1. “Welcome To The Party”
2. “The Promise”
3. “You’ve Got It Going”
4. “Coming Out”
5. “Break Another Heart”
6. “Sweet Dreams”
7. “Eilene”
8. “It’s All Coming Back”
9. “Love A Woman”
10. “The Apple Of Temptation”
11. “Dangerous”
PEO online: http://peopettersson.wix.com/peopettersson
Michael Sweet & Joel Hoekstra Collaboration On The Way:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
WHITESNAKE guitarist Joel Hoekstra has revealed plans to record an album with STRYPER front man Michael Sweet.
Hoekstra announced the project on the current episode of the "White Line Fever" podcast (download on iTunes), explaining he had built a strong relationship with Sweet while contributing to the STRYPER leader's solo album.
"I just got done laying down some solos for Michael Sweet's solo album and actually he and I are also going to record a project album together that I'm going to write with him," Hoekstra said.
"I'm doing some writing for that now and also three other things in total so I’m writing for four things total right now.
"A lot of my days are that."
Hoekstra said he was a massive admirer of Sweet, 52, who is also an accomplished guitarist and producer.
"A lot of the guys from the scene are jaded, tired," said Hoekstra, formerly of NIGHT RANGER. "Michael's just a guy who's got his life together and I think a lot of that is via how he goes about living his life on a daily basis.
"But, yeah, I think he is a really talented guy and a nice guy and him and I have always gotten on and wanted to work together.
"The timing didn't work out for his last solo album, so I ended up just kind of miming in a couple of the videos - 'I'm Not Your Suicide' and his duet with Electra Mustaine (daughter of MEGADETH main man Dave Mustaine), the “Heart Of Gold” cover. This time I got to play a little bit on the solo album and would have been happy to do much more but I think it would have been weird because we are going to do a whole album together."
Sweet's next solo album, set to be titled One Sided War, is due out later in 2016 via Rat Pak Records. The CD, which Michael promises will be his "best to date," will feature Will Hunt (EVANESCENCE, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) on drums.
Sweet's latest solo album, I'm Not Your Suicide, sold around 2,900 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 154 on The Billboard 200 chart.
Michael Sweet online: www.michaelsweet.com & www.facebook.com/TheMichaelSweet
TEMPEST Release First Single In Twenty-Five Years:
Courtesy of www.mauce.nl:
It was thirty years ago, that TEMPEST signed to Pure Metal Records and history was made. TEMPEST is back with new and old music on Pure Metal Collective, who just dropped the new TEMPEST song called “Back To The Hill” along with the final mix of the first radio single “Hello God”. They are both available for streaming below.
Both songs were written by founding member and guitarist/vocalist Mick Rowe and recorded/produced by Mick and Steve Veninga, at the P.M.C. Studios in Hollywood, CA. Frank Gaidliardi handled mixing and mastering. David Pearson (BLISSED) contributes drums to both tracks.
TEMPEST is also at work on a brand new EP for Pure Metal Collective entitled The Metal Queen 2016. In addition to a cover of The REZ BAND classic “Military Man”, the EP will feature a re-recorded version of “Golgotha” (from the 1987 TEMPEST debut A Coming Storm).
If all goes as planned, limited edition hard copies of the EP will be available for order when TEMPEST plays at the So Cal Metal Fest on April 23rd in Irvine, CA alongside BLOODGOOD, WORLDVIEW, JOIN THE DEAD, IN THE MIDST 777 and WICKED’S END. Joining Mick Rowe onstage will be Rex Scott (GX PROJECT, X-SINNER) on bass.
Either song is available for streaming at the link below; however, if you would like to support TEMPEST by purchasing the EP, you can do so with PayPal at www.paypalme.com/Tempest777.
TEMPEST has a lot planned for 2016, including two documentaries and re-recording both TEMPEST albums plus a few other goodies. Thanks for your support and prayers!
“Back To The Hill” and “Hello God” can be streamed at: www.reverbnation.com/TempestMission
TEMPEST online: www.facebook.com/TempestMission/timeline
NEWS BRIEFS
* Emanuel Wärja is the new guitar player in HERO. Emanuel is currently recording his guitar parts for the upcoming HERO album, which will now be entitled Miracle. Mixing and mastering to follow.
* LEVITICUS, Elements Of Rock 2016 full concert: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdqFzoZCL4I
* NARNIA new album and tour update (as reported by vocalist Christian Liljegren): “As you may know we are soon ready with the new album. We will be touring around the world (starting) in Sweden. We also (plan) to tour in Europe
“We want to visit the UK again and of course Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, and hopefully Italy and more countries. We can do both electric and acoustic shows. We will continue (to tour) during 2017-2018 so we reach as many parts of the world.
“We have a very Christ centered album and there is a big need out there. We want to bring a heavenly hope in this time of changes. If you are interested to book Narnia to your club, festival, church. Please contact us.”
* Christian Liljegren will also be making a guest appearance on the sophomore album of Italian progressive rock group S91. Further details about the album are forthcoming. S91 debuted in 2011 with the full length offering Volonta Legata.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Roxx Records - Official Sponsor Of The So Cal Metal Fest:
Press Release / Southern California, are you ready for this? Sacrivox Productions is very excited to bring you the very first So Cal Metal Fest coming to Irvine, California Saturday April 23, 2016! Get ready for a night of great Christian Metal and fellowship! Featuring the long awaited return of BLOODGOOD with special guest performers Terry Russell (HOLY SOLDIER) on drums and Larry Farkas (VENGEANCE RISING, DIE HAPPY, ONCE DEA) on guitars.
We are also extremely excited to bring you the worldwide debut performance of WORLDVIEW, the brand new super group featuring members of DELIVERANCE, RECON and SACRED WARRIOR. Also look for the band’s debut full-length album entitled The Chosen Few out now!
Also joining the bill on our main stage is none other than Northern California thrashers JOIN THE DEAD coming down for their first, and only, scheduled Southern California area appearance. Rounding out our main stage line up for this year’s So Cal Metal Fest is none other than glam metal sensations CHAOTIC RESEMBLANE and the long awaited return of So Cal area thrashers WICKED’S END.
If that’s not enough for you, on our second stage, in the Acoustic Café, we are excited to bring you the return of REX Recording artists TEMPEST (featuring special guest Rex Scott of X-SINNER and GX PROJECT) in their first show in over 25 years! Also on the second stage is a special acoustic performance from So Cal ‘metallers’ IN THE MIDST, which rounds out what promises to be one amazing and unforgettable show. This is going to be one great night of metal that you don’t want to miss, and are sure to remember for years to come!
Advance tickets are on sale now for only $15, and there is also a Limited Edition Premium Pass ticket for only $50! Premium Pass tickets include a general admission ticket as well as entry into a very special Meet and Greet session with all of the bands prior to the show, it also includes early entry into the event and a brand new Worldview T-shirt. Meet and Greet session is at 4:30pm and doors to the main event will open up at 5:30pm.
Tickets are now available through Eventbrite at: http://socalmetalfest.eventbrite.com
Our official show sponsors include:
The Wounded Society: www.facebook.com/TheWoundedSociety
Meis Music Group: www.meismusicgroup.com
Roxx Records: www.roxxproductions.com
Metal Pulse Radio: http://metalpulseradio.com
The Covenant Metal Show www.covenantmetalshow.net
PHILADELPHIA Release New Album, Warlord:
Courtesy of www.enfocusmagazine.com:
The early to mid ‘80s was a different time. Ronald Reagan was America’s president. With a new era of conservatism sweeping across the US, fundamentalist Christianity embraced politics, prospering as it did. Men like Jerry Falwell & Jim Bakker openly endorsed right wing candidates as church and state became unabashed bedfellows. Meanwhile, the American music scene was anything but button-down conservative. Hard rock & metal had lit a fire in the late ‘70s that became an inferno as the 80's arrived. OZZY OSBOURNE, JUDAS PRIEST, DIO, & IRON MAIDEN were selling out shows and breaking sales records across the country. It didn’t take a visionary to see it. If you were going to reach the kids who needed it most, the concert stage was the place and the music was the language. And if the music wasn’t real, if it wasn’t authentic or connect with them inside... well, don’t bother!
It was during this time that the band PHILADELPHIA came to be. Hailing from the Deep South, Shreveport, Louisiana to be exact, there was a Christian street outreach group called Philadelphia. The choice of the name came from a reference in the book of Revelation in the Bible. In the reference, the people of Philadelphia were characterized as not having much but they were faithful in spite of much opposition. This would soon prove to be a very apt name indeed. Since some of the key members grew up playing rock ‘n roll, PHILADELPHIA also included a band. They took the same name, and began to play gigs all over the NW Louisiana region. Being musicians, it was only natural that they would express their faith through the music they played. In doing this, they soon realized the old ‘church’ ways of doing things weren’t going to cut it. Crowds were small at first but enthusiastic. After a few lineup changes, Philly eventually settled into a hard rocking trio, with Brian Clark on bass & vocals, Brian Martini on drums and Phil Scholling on guitar.
Opposition from some of the established church folk was intense and immediate. Time and again they heard things such as, "You can’t do this!" "This music is evil, and it can't be used for good, period!" "There is no place for you in this church if you're going to keep doing what you're doing!" The boys in the band disagreed. They were playing nearly exclusively to younger crowds and it was a familiar language to both. Venues ranged from local rock clubs to more unconventional sites such as youth shelters and even prisons. PHILADELPHIA had found a way to communicate a message of hope to those that needed it.... and communicate they did!
A couple of years passed and a fourth member, Ronn Flowers, was added on guitar. While playing a show in Mississippi, the band was spotted by a recording studio owner who quickly signed them to his label. PHILADELPHIA released their first album Tell The Truth in 1984. The record spawned a Top 25 CCM hit named “No Compromise”. It was during this time that the band and outreach team had formed a close friendship with noted hard rockers REZ BAND, and their community Jesus People USA. After playing large shows with them around the region they were invited to play the Cornerstone festival in ’85. The show was a triumph for the band, validating their approach and gaining exposure to a much wider audience. However, all was not well back home. Things were heating up… and not in a good way.
The initial opposition they encountered had continued during this whole time but now as they gaining prominence, PHILADELPHIA began to come under vicious attack for their music. Church personalities great and small fired away at the boys, saying that God could never use their music for good. Using newsletters, TV broadcasts, and word of mouth campaigns, televangelist Jimmy Swaggart publicly accused them of blasphemy. He was not alone in his condemnation of what the guys had been up to. With their home in close proximity to many religious organizations in East Texas, PHILADELHIA found itself in the crosshairs of many that didn't like what the guys were up to.
In the middle of the tumult, PHILADELPHIA released its second album, Search & Destroy. The band’s music was even harder than before. Since the guys had never set out with the goal of appeasing the people that were criticizing them, they focused on finding a better way to get across what they wanted to say to the people that mattered most to them. They learned that a majority of the kids that needed to hear a message of hope would never listen to anything labeled Christian, so the message became more subtle in its delivery. The idea being that those that were searching may find something. They also dedicated themselves to making their songs as authentic musically as the feelings and thoughts the lyrics shared.
1986 brought another fantastic show at the Cornerstone festival they'd played the year before. However, the situation at home was rapidly unraveling. Religious persecution continued, causing personal problems to worsen, and finally, label issues. PHILADELPHIA had written and recorded demos for a new, full length third album, to be named after the title track of Warlord. Disagreement with their record label left them unable to record, and so besieged on all sides, PHILADELPHIA broke up. Through their travels, so many concerts played, living together in a community home, they’d created a bond that was so much more than music. PHILADELPHIA had received letters from across the US, and as far away as Germany & Poland, from people who had heard their message on the first two LPs. There were great memories of shows across the South, lives touched, hearts and souls mended...but that was all, memories. The guys went their separate ways and that was it.
Fast forward to 2011. Bassist Brian Clark was in the hospital in his hometown of Shreveport LA, awaiting aortic valve replacement and bypass surgery. To his amazement, three of the friends that came to offer support and love were the former members of PHILADELPHIA even though Brian Martini now lived in Ft. Worth TX, and Phil Scholling further away in Austin, TX. Looking around his hospital room, Brian realized that although it had been many years since they had all been together, a special bond was still there.
In 2014, Brian Martini proposed a ‘PHILADELPHIA reunion’ at his home in Ft. Worth TX, just a good time visiting with each other. It was only natural that a jam session would end up happening when the guys got together. Playing together again felt great, just like old times. The next morning, Clark had an idea that he proposed to the others. Remember Warlord? Why not record and release it themselves? Could they still do it? Would the original fire and passion still be there? Only one way to find out! Originally, all four members were in, but time constraints forced Ronn Flowers to withdraw. So now, PHILADELPHIA was back to its original power trio lineup. And ready to start work on Warlord… an album 30 years in the making!!
Brian Martini offered his home studio. Since it was centrally located in Ft Worth between the other 2 members it was the ideal place and so writing and recording demos began. The three decided to keep the strong title track, and write new material for the remaining songs. The guys wanted the record to have current sound while staying true to their roots as a band of delivering some hard-driving rock PHILADELPHIA fans would expect. To accomplish this, the search began to find the right person to engineer and produce the record. Enter the extremely talented Ritchie Wicander from Austin, TX. In addition to being an up and coming engineer/producer, Ritchie has his own metal band, FIRE FROM THE GODS. A drummer raised in Germany, Richie shared many of the same musical influences as the members of PHILADELPHIA , as well as a similar rock vision. Even though his band had just signed to a major record deal, Richie was eager to take on the role as engineer and producer and bring a fresh take on the songs.
So now after 30 years, the last 2 spent writing and recording, Warlord is complete and ready for release. The question is… are you ready to hear what all the fuss and controversy was really all about? Are you ready for Warlord?
Warlord release date: April 1, 2016
Warlord track listing:
1. “Brothers In Arms”
2. “Defender”
3. “I’m Not Listening”
4. “Prophecy”
5. “Wasteland”
6. “Sane Asylum”
7. “Son Of The Morning”
8. “Lady Fortune”
9. “Way Of The Skull”
10. “Warlord”
PHILADELPHIA online: www.facebook.com/Philadelphia
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Choose”, the first single release from JOSHUA'S CREED is available for free download: www.noisetrade.com/joshuascreed
According to the group, the song is “forged from the very scriptures where JOSHUA'S CREED get its name. “Choose” is a high octane bass grooved double kickin' roller coaster challenge to "choose this day" whom you will serve.”
* Drummer Beni Mayer departed PŸLON in the middle of recording its next album, A Lament. Former PŸLON timekeeper Beni Mayer is his replacement.
* Two new songs from TEMPEST, “Back To The Hill” & “Hello God”: www.reverbnation.com/TempestMission
FEATURED REVIEWS
DETH ENEMY - Unmovable
Want proof that Australia is still capable of producing a hard rock band that ranks with the genres best? Look no further than Queensland based Deth Enemy and its Big Sky Song Records September of 2015 full-length debut Unmovable. Read Full Review >>
FIERCE HEART - Fierce Heart
Uncannily catchy, immediately accessible and accentuated by loads of talent in the guitar, vocalist and producer positions, the 1985 Fierce Heart self-titled Mirage Records debut perplexed us. Read Full Review >>
TERRY FRIESEN - Windchill Factor
Windchill Factor, the January of 2016 fifth-full length solo album of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan vocalist and guitarist Terry Friesen, has a lot to be proud of. Read Full Review >>
INNERWISH – InnerWish
There is melodic metal and there is power metal and there is traditional metal and there is symphonic metal and somewhere where these genres intersect there is InnerWish. Read Full Review >>
PROTO-KAW - The Wait Of Glory - (Numavox re-issue)
The re-mixed,
re-mastered and partially re-recorded December of 2015 re-issue of Proto-Kaw's third album, The Wait Of Glory, arrives as an upgrade in comparison to the initial Inside Out Records release from 2006. Read Full Review >>
RAZORIGAMI - Embracing A Temporal Exile
The Razorigami project of high-octane vocalist Luke Richard Weber has always been all about style. And the artists third (and reportedly final) February of 2016 released album Embracing A Temporal Exile, recorded in follow up to the Razorigami debut Weathering The Winter Of The Soul (2013) and sophomore effort Truths From Beyond The Machine (2014), delivers inside and out. Read Full Review >>
SCANDINAVIAN METAL PRAISE - Glory & Power: Part 1
Glory & Power: Part 1, the fall of 2015 sophomore album from Scandinavian Metal Praise, is a pretty compelling package on paper. Read Full Review >>
THE WORLD WILL BURN - Severity
The World Will Burn is the new band of Dale Thompson, front man of iconic Christian metal and hard rock veterans Bride, whom have14 studio albums, 7 live albums and 9 compilations to its credit since forming in the mid-eighties. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BLACK FATE - Deliverance Of Soul Re-Issue Announced:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are proud to announce the re-issue of Deliverance Of Soul from the Greek melodic metal band BLACK FATE. The re-issue will be released on April 29, 2016 in Europe and North America.
Deliverance of Soul was originally released in 2009, and it was the first BLACK FATE album to feature Vasilis Georgiou on lead vocals. Georgiou also fronted the most recent BLACK FATE release Between Visions & Lies (Ulterium Records), which received excellent feedback from around the world in being described as a mix between KAMELOT, IRON MAIDEN, DREAM THEATER and CONCEPTION.
The re-issue was re-mastered by Erik Tordsson (END OF SEPTEMBER) and features new artwork by Jan Yrlund (APOCALYPTICA, KORPIKLAANI, LEAH).
Deliverance Of Soul track listing:
1. “Children of Aniramas”
2. “Dying Freedom”
3. “Blood Red Sky”
4. “Angry Silent Scream”
5. “The Conscience Of The Brave”
6. “Rain Of Paradise”
7. “If The Silence Was Gray”
8. “Wicked”
9. “Thorn In My Hand”
10. “Inner Warning Of My Soul”
11. “Fallen”
BLACK FATE lineup for Deliverance Of Soul:
Vasilis Georgiou – Lead Vocals
Ilias Tsintzilonis - Guitars
Giannis Theologis – Guitars
Achilleas Mochloulis - Keyboards
Albertos Oikonomou - Bass
Nikos Tsintzilonis - Drums
BLACK FATE discography:
2016: Deliverance Of Soul (re-issue, Ulterium Records)
2014: Between Visions & Lies (Ulterium Records)
2009: Deliverance Of Soul
2002: A Piece of Dream
2000: Uncover
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
BLACK FATE online: www.facebook.com/blackfategreece
THEOCRACY IV Drum Tracking Tour:
Athens, Georgia based melodic power metal band THEOCRACY remains at work on its yet to be titled fourth album. The group provided a recent update in regards to the drum tracking process, which it has relocated to a farmhouse in rural Georgia. Founding member and vocalist Matt Smith offers further details in the above referenced video.
THEOCRACY recently announced that original drummer Shawn Benson will record the drums on said fourth album. Benson played drums on 2011's As The World Bleeds and 2008's Mirror Of Souls, as well as the 2013 re-release of Theocracy's self-titled debut album.
The band are in the early stages of recording, and are excited to showcase Benson's unique style on their upcoming release, which will be their third on Swedish label Ulterium Records.
THEOCRACY recently returned from a brief tour in Scandinavia, including their first performance in Sweden, with HALYCON WAY drummer Ernie Topran filling in on the drums.
Former drummer Patrick Nickell quit THEOCRACY last November after recording the Christmas single "Night Of Silence”, and the band wishes him well in his future endeavors. No decision has been made regarding a permanent replacement.
THEOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband
NEWS BRIEFS
* INNERSIEGE rehearsal instrumental track, “Iron Lotus”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONt1p2FUcB4
“Iron Lotus” is scheduled to appear on the group’s (yet to be titled) upcoming album.
* New WARPRIEST song, “The Crux”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwDwBf5lEQU
Commented vocalist Robert “Death is Gain” Wilson: “About two years ago I got an idea for a song for Good Friday (that was based upon) the BLACK SABBATH track “Black Sabbath”. It was a dud, and I shelved it, but recently I got the itch again and started working on a different take. Yesterday the lyrics and theme came to me (and) I wanted to release it today (after) putting the finishing touches on it.”
* PHILADELPHIA update in regards to new album Warlord (Facebook - March 7, 2016): “Are you ready for some brand new PHILADEPHIA? Only 30 years in the making!! Our brand new album Warlord is in the mastering process now, and should be available in 30 days or so. More info to come on how to order. Thanks for the new likes...and we hope you like our new stuff!!”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Roxx Records To Release A Celebration Of The Death And Resurrection Compilation:
Press Release / Roxx Records is very excited to bring you this very special release just in time for your Easter holiday celebrations, and to leave it with you to enjoy for many years to come. Roxx Records proudly presents A Celebration of the Death and Resurrection, a compilation of some of the best Christian Metal tracks focused entirely on the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
This compilation was carefully compiled to feature some of the classics of Christian Metal as well as to introduce you to some of today’s greatest Christian Metal artists. Included are classic tracks from the likes of BLOODGOOD, NEON CROSS and RECON along with those from current bands helping keep the metal scene alive today like THEOCRACY, GRAVE FORSAKEN and WORLDVIEW. The compilation opens as we hear the tracks “Crucify” and “Son Of God” depicting the story of the death of Christ, and the stories continue on throughout this strategically compiled compilation, which ends by reminding us that “He Is Alive” and “He’s The Messiah” a true classic compilation through and through.
We are also using this compilation as a tool to raise awareness of the ministries of Sanctuary International led by Pastor Bob Beeman. The compilation opens with a brand new message from Pastor Bob as he leads us on this musical journey. A portion of the profits from this CD will also be donated to the ministry ‘The Bridge Bunch’ which focuses on feeding the homeless in the Nashville area. Please visit www.SanctuaryInternational.com to learn more about the ministries of Sanctuary International and ‘The Bridge Bunch’
Featuring some amazing new artwork throughout an 8 page booklet put together by Scott Waters (ULTIMATUM), which also includes lyrics to each and every song on the compilation. This exclusive compilation has also been completely re-mastered by the one and only George Ochoa (WORDVIEW, DELIVERANCE, RECON) especially for this release.
A Celebration Of The Death And Resurrection track listing:
1. A Message From Pastor Bob Beeman
2. BLOODGOOD - “Crucify”
3. NEON CROSS - “Son Of God”
4. SACRED WARRIOR - “He Died”
5. WORLDVIEW - “The Last Cry”
6. THEOCRACY - “30 Pieces of Silver”
7. X-SINNER - “World Covered In Blood”
8. SAINT - “Crucified”
9. ULTIMATUM - “Violence And Bloodshed”
10. GRAVE FORSAKEN - “Death On The Cross”
11. Deliverance - “Flesh And Blood”
12. VENGEANCE RISING - “Human Sacrifice”
13. TOURNIQUET - “If I Was There”
14. RECON - “Alive”
15. BLOODGOOD - “The Messiah”
A Celebration of the Death And Resurrection is scheduled to be released as a Limited Edition CD pressing of only 300 copies on April 1, 2016. As a bonus, anyone who pre-orders the CD will receive a special download within 48 hours of your purchase that will allow you to start enjoying this wonderful compilation, before and during, the Easter holiday until your Limited Edition CD arrives!
DETH ENEMY – “Open Your Heart” Lyric Video Premier:
Press Release / Queensland, Australia based melodic hard rock act DETH ENEMY has released a lyric video for the track “Open Your Heart” from its Big Sky Song Records full length debut Unmovable.
Unmovable was produced by Tom E. Morrison and recorded by vocalist and guitarist Al Caiulo at The Zoo Studio in Beerwah, Queensland. Martin Pfeiffer handled mastering at BANG Mastering.
According to the group, its goal is to “delve into the dark of a world arching into the abyss to split it with light, taking a stand for the soul once and for all”. Furthermore, DETH ENEMY places priority on “(stripping) the sin back from the sound like paint thinner, black being bleached back to white, dark dripping away to light” while also “touching on the listing line between life and death and throwing the hope rope out to a society swimming in ruins.”
The 90% Angelic Warlord review of Unmovable summed up the DETH ENEMY sound as follows:
"While many identify with Australia for yielding the brazen sounds of AC/DC and smoother flavorings to Little River Band, Deth Enemy walks a fine line between the two from drawing upon both sides of the fence. Specifically, Deth Enemy stays true to the former by joining driving hard rock guitar riffs and a keyed up rhythm section with the no-nonsense muscle to match, but emphasizes the latter in terms of accessible leanings found in fitting doses of AOR and commercial melodic rock. The upshot is a group with a multifarious sound that owes its allegiance equally to the seventies (think Resurrection Band and similar acts) and eighties (sort of like Whitecross and its contemporaries).”
An Unmovable teaser can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SEgU9D4K1M
Unmovable track listing:
1. “C.O.D. (Call Of The Devil”)
2. “One Thousand Years”
3. “Wicked World”
4. “When An Angel Falls”
5. “Dark Side Of The Blues”
6. “The Hammer”
7. “Disciple”
8. “Devil’s Playground”
9. “I Believe In Angels”
10. “Eternally Blessed”
11. “Ordinary People”
12. “Crucifier”
13. “Open Your Heart” (4:51)
DETH ENEMY line up:
Al Caiulo - Lead Vocals, Guitars & Bass
Frank Caiulo - Drums
DETH ENEMY online: http://dethenemy.com & www.facebook.com/Deth-Enemy
INNERWISH - “Modern Babylon” Music Video Released:
Press Release / Athens, Greece melodic metal six piece INNERWISH has released a music video for the track “Modern Babylon”, which is off their upcoming self-titled album scheduled for release in Europe and North America via Ulterium Records on March 18, 2016. The Japan release is schedule for March 30, 2016 (on Bickee Music).
InnerWish will be available on CD, double LP, cassette tape and as a digital download.
InnerWish was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Peter In De Betou (ARCH ENEMY, OPETH, AMON AMARTH). Album artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, XANDRIaA) and the design was done by Jan Yrlund (KORPIKLAANI, APOCALYPTICA, MANOWAR).
Commented the band regarding InnerWish:
"This is the first album with our new lineup, and we hope this lineup will be unchanged for many years since we now feel stronger, more confident and sure about ourselves than ever before. For those reasons we chose InnerWish as the title of our new album because it represents us in the most exact way. We are very proud of this album. It might sound very common, but it's the truth for us: this is the best INNERWISH album so far! Heavy, aggressive, modern, melodic and diverse at the same time, with all the classical INNERWISH elements, combined with some new ones. It might have been 6 years since the release of No Turning Back but all the difficult times we've been through made us stronger and the result is this new, fifth album of InnerWish. We are back for good!"
InnerWish track listing:
1. “Roll The Dice”
2. “Broken”
3. “Modern Babylon”
4. “Machines Of Fear”
5. “Needles In My Mind”
6. “My World On Fire”
7. “Rain Of A Thousand Years”
8. “Serenity”
9. “Sins Of The Past”
10. “Through My Eyes”
11. “Zero Ground”
12. “Cross The Line”
13. “Tame The Seven Seas”
A lyric video for "Needles In My Mind" can be viewed at YouTube: https://youtu.be/7_l1lJPS-a4
Stream "Rain Of A Thousand Years" at YouTube: https://youtu.be/sfdla3ZsbEE
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/innerwishofficial
NEWS BRIEFS
* Demo version of a new song from BIOGENESIS, “Inside The Beast”: www.reverbnation.com/biogenesisofficial
The song is slated to be included as part of the group’s third album tentatively entitled A Decadence Divine.
* NARNIA update (Facebook - March 11, 2016): “We are working hard to finish the new album and more details will follow soon and of course we are working to bring the Lion back on the road. Are you a promoter for concerts / festivals? Please get in touch with us.
“We will soon give you a release date. Please be patient and our plan is to do a European Tour late this year 2016 and in 2017 we want to visit North & South America and it would be fantastic to go down under to Australia as well.”
As of March 25, 2016, each NARNIA studio album will be available for digital download.
INTERVIEWS
New Rex Carroll interview online:
In a detailed interview last year with Glitter2Gutter, guitarist Rex Carroll goes into detail about both his work (earlier and recent) in WHITECROSS and KING JAMES and his beginnings with FIERCE HEART. Following is an excerpt:
Stryper is still going strong... Petra is back playing shows again... Bloodgood and Guardian did new records recently, so I ask you, why not Whitecross? Any chance of a new record at any time in the near future?
I love how Stryper has been able to keep going. That is fantastic! As far as the music industry and music business is concerned, as soon as somebody makes a legitimate offer to make a new record, it's easily doable. What I'm NOT interested in is a situation where a small label says, "you make the record at your own expense and take all your own time, we will sell it and then we're not going to pay any royalties anyways!" I can assure you, I've done that enough already! (Laughing) So THAT is not happening any time soon. But, any serious offers and of course we're interested in it.
Read full interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
RAZORIGAMI Digital Album Giveaway:
Press Release / Reanimated Radio will have an exclusive download of the new album from RAZORIGAMI.
The final RAZORIGAMI release Embracing A Temporal Exile encompasses the entire four year span (2012 - 2016) of the project! From hard rock to old-school metal to progressive rock, from modern rock to the alternative, RAZORIGAMI will not disappoint! Passionate songs with a Christian worldview, featuring the vocal talents of Luke Richard Weber.
Included along with the ten new songs on EATE, are also the eleven appearing on RAZORIGAMI debut Weathering The Winter Of The Soul (2013) and eleven from sophomore effort Truths From Beyond The Machine (2014).
Commented Weber in regards to EATE: “I’ve been really trying to stretch my own boundaries and I think this will easily be the most diverse of the three. My sister, who is a music teacher and a brilliant pianist in her own right, is even contributing a brief piano piece to one of these songs so that’s pretty special. I hesitate to say too much because nobody likes the movie trailer that literally shows you all the best parts of the movie… but I think it’s safe to say that style-wise this will be nothing like what people would expect and yet it will encompass everything people would expect at the same time.
Listen to the Hammer of God on March 21, 2016 from 9-10 pm EST where RAZORIGAMI’s music will be featured. Then download your exclusive copy HERE. The free download will be available for 24 hours after the show.
RAZORIGAMI online: https://razorigami.wordpress.com & www.facebook.com/razorigamimusic
SACRED WARRIOR - “Slave” Official Lyric Video:
Chicago, Illinois based power metal act release new single featuring guest vocals from former lead singer Rey Parra, who weaves an epic vocal tapestry with current front man Eli Prinsen!
SACRED WARRIOR offers further detail in regards to the meaning behind the song: “One day last year, our guitarist Bruce Swift heard a radio interview of a woman who was personally involved in rescuing children caught in sex slavery and exploitation in Asia. One story about a young boy was particularly heart-wrenching, as she had trailed him and watched him be passed around by his owner to dozens of men, for all hours of the days and night, every day of the week. Eventually that little boy was rescued, but there are millions more victims who suffer day and night in confinement, coercion, emotional and physical abuse, and unbelievable degradation as they are bought and sold like cattle and made to do filthy, unspeakable acts by their exploiters.
“We had to do something. This gave birth to the ideas and music for "Slave", an evocative, epic metal anthem that we hope will seize your heart, dance across the theater of your mind, and compel you to partner with us.
“Through God's amazing providence, we were put into contact with Naomi's House, a ministry of Chicago's Moody Church. Naomi's House will be a residence in the suburbs of Chicago where female victims of sexual trafficking and exploitation can find shelter, relief, safety, peace, and hope for a future no longer destroyed by their past.
“Renovations on a purchased house and property are almost complete, and its first residents will hopefully arrive by late summer! Aside from finishing expenses for the multi-unit residence, hiring of staff and operating expenses all contribute to a large financial need for the upcoming year. This is why we need your help.
“So, we ask you to join us in doing our small part amid the storm of this worldwide holocaust of broken lives. We have created "Slave" for you to download and listen to free of charge, but we ask you to not be satisfied with merely hearing about the problem and enjoying the song without also taking action. Will you help us, as we help those right here in our neighborhoods?”
The Naomi’s House mission statement is: "To provide lifelong hope and healing through long-term, residential comprehensive care for women who have suffered sexual exploitation."
Please join our "Slave" fundraising campaign here: https://igg.me/at/4Q-SsK80uAc
You can download the MP3 of "Slave" free of charge here: www.sacredwarrior.net/downloadmedia.aspx…
Naomi’s House online: www.naomishouse.org & www.facebook.com/ChicagoNaomisHouse
SACRED WARRIOR online: www.sacredwarrior.net & www.facebook.com/sacredwarrior
STRYPER Announces Fallen Tour:
Press Release / After spending most of 2015 off the road, multi-platinum rock band STRYPER will hit the road this spring in support of their new album, Fallen. Released in October via Frontiers Music SRL and produced by front man Michael Sweet, Fallen is the band’s ninth studio album and their most critically acclaimed release to date, impressively landing near the top of the charts in three separate genres: Rock, Hard Music and Christian/Gospel.
Select dates have been announced, with more dates being added in the coming weeks:
April 15 - Osaka Club Quattro - Osaka, Japan
April 16 - Kawasaki Club Citta’ - Tokyo, Japan
April 17 - Kawasaki Club Citta’ - Tokyo, Japan
April 23 - Cannery Casino - Las Vegas, NV
April 24 - Whisky a Go Go - West Hollywood, CA
May 21 - Coushatta Casino - Kinder, LA
June 8 - EXIT/IN - Nashville, TN
June 10 - MIXX 360 Nightlife - Malden, MA
June 11 - The Chance - Poughkeepsie, NY
June 12 - Stage 48 - New York, NY
June 14 - Beachland Ballroom - Cleveland, OH
June 16 - Altar Bar - Pittsburgh, PA
June 17 - The Forum, Hal Rogers Center - Hazard, KY
June 18 - BMI Speedway - Versailles, OH
June 20 - Skully’s Music Diner - Columbus, OH
June 21 - Plaza Theatre - Glasgow, KY
June 23 - The Rockpile West - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
June 24 - The Token Lounge - Westland, MI
June 25 - The Music Factory - Battle Creek, MI
June 30 - Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK
July 2 - The Rock Box - San Antonio, TX
July 30 - Hard Rock Live - Biloxi, MS
August 12 - Marquee Theatre - Mesa, AZ
August 13 - Avi Resort & Casino - Laughlin, NV
September 9 - Grand Rocktember IV Music Festival - Hinckley, MN
September 23 - Arcada Theatre - St. Charles, IL
October 30 - The Tree of Joliet - Joliet, IL
For additional dates and exclusive VIP Meet & Greet packages, visit: www.stryper.com
2016 marks the 30th anniversary of the band’s historic album release, To Hell With The Devil. Plans are in the works to celebrate with a special tour in late 2016. Details will be announced at a later date.
ARTICLES
Angelic Warlord Top 25 Metal & Hard Rock Albums Of 2015:
I like to define 2015 as a year in which the metal and hard rock scenes experienced both veteran acts reassert themselves and talented newcomers began to make their presence felt. Read Full Article >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
FIERCE HEART Self-Titled Album Re-Issued:
Courtesy of www.melodicrock.com:
Press Release / It’s hard to believe but three decades on from its release, the FIERCE HEART self-titled debut full-length is often hailed as classic of the melodic hard rock genre that unfortunately never found its deserved wider audience.
Full to the brim with jaw crushing guitars – a sound made famous by successful acts of the day such as DOKKEN, RATT & STRYPER, FIERCE HEART consisted of singer Larry Elkins with guitarist Rex Carroll, their ace in the pack who could shred on par with all his peers of the mid to late 80s.
Hailing from Chicago, FIERCE HEART was a melodic rock project put together by Mirage Records’ Jim Delehart and band manager John Doumanian. The latter had discovered Elkins in Nashville and, having heard of Carroll’s guitar prowess, elected to introduce the two musicians, which in turn lead to an album being recorded. The album, simply called Fierce Heart, utilized engineer Chris Lord-Alge in a percussive capacity. To promote the album the band performed a series of shows though sadly they were to miss out on the chance to support DEEP PURPLE due to management / label politics, denying them the opportunity to truly showcase their potential.
After the inevitable breakup, Rex would go on to find success with Christian rockers WHITECROSS, whle Larry pursued a succession of diverse musical projects.
The self-titled album itself has over the years been a victim of various bootleggers and has appeared on CD in various formats, none of which have been official or authorized. Until now that is, with AOR BLVD Records’ A&R man supreme finally securing a legitimate release after a chance meeting with Rex. The guitarist himself felt that the original artwork used was out of sync with the music and style of FIERCE HEART and in no way did them justice. As a result, and with Rex’s approval, the label has commissioned new artwork it feels is more fitting. Furthermore, AOR BLVD Records have ensured this CD has been re-mastered to the highest quality, while including as a bonus the original interview conducted for Metal Forces magazine providing details on the bands history and how it was formed. Three exclusive demos featuring ex GRAVE DANGER singer Bob Reynolds as well as detailed liner notes from Rex himself are included as well.
Editors Note: Fierce Heart is a secular release through and through with little if any Christian content in terms of its lyrics. That said I also feel that its inclusion in Angelic Warlord warrants itself due to documenting the first efforts of what would become one of our generations top guitar talents and who would later play such an influential role in the Christian hard music scene with WHITECROSS and KING JAMES. I feel that FIERCE HEART might not be for all of the Angelic Warlord readers but is also certainly for some- so I encourage you to approach with both prudence and an open mind.
Fierce Heart track listing:
1. “Echoes”
2. “Fierce Heart”
3. “Out For Blood”
4. “Lion's Share”
5. “Search And Destroy”
6. “Heroes”
7. “Never Gonna Cry”
8. “Bad Maureen”
9. “Loose Lips”
10. “Getting Lost Inside Your Love”
11. “Bad Child”
12. “Power To Rock”
AOR BLVD Records online: http://aorblvdrecords.weebly.com & www.facebook.com/pages/AorBlvdRecords
Rex Carroll online: http://rexcarrollmusic.com
WORLDVIEW Live Premier:
This is the concert you don't want to miss: WORLDVIEW, featuring members of DELIVERANCE, RECON and SACRED WARRIOR, live for the first time ever! And if that weren't enough, you also get to see BLOODGOOD, JOIN THE DEAD (featuring former members of DELIVERANCE and FASEDOWN), and WICKED’S END!
Tickets are only $15. So get your tickets early- this show will sell out! A Premium Pass is also offered, which includes one general admission ticket plus early entrance to the show, admission to a meet and greet session with the bands prior to the show, and a WORLDVIEW t-shirt!
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Doors open at 5:30pm
Newport Church
2727 Campus Dr
Irvine, CA 92612
General Admission: $15 in advance, $20 at the door
Premium Pass: $60
The WORLDVIEW spring of 2015 M24 Music Group full length debut The Chosen few is packed with a host of celebrity guest players: Oz Fox (STRYPER) playing a blazing lead guitar, Les Carlsen (BLOODGOOD) laying down a dramatic guest vocal, Jimmy P. Brown (DELIVERANCE) cutting some low and powerful background vocals. Larry Farkas (VENGEANCE RISING, DIE HAPPY) also shreds with his tasty licks, Armand Meinbardis (Rob Rock) dazzling with his violin and piano playing, and Niki Bente gracing the record with her lovely voice on the title track.
The Chosen Few artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, JORN), while Bill Metoyer (FATES WARNING, SLAYER, W.A.S.P.) handled mixing and mastering duties.
WORLDVIEW formed in Los Angeles when George Rene Ochoa (DELIVERANCE, RECAON, VENGENACE RISING) and Rey Parra (SACRED WARRIOR) spoke soon after their mutual friend Rick Macias (SACRED WARRIOR) passed away. He had always encouraged them to form a band together and though they were miles apart, Rick thought that it would be a great collaboration. Regrettably, he passed away before this would ever take place. So George and Rey decided to form this union to honor their friend and thus WORLDVIEW was born. The lineup includes the addition of John Gonzales (RECON, DELIVERANCE) on drums and Todd Libby on bass guitar and keyboards. Ronson Webster also joined them as co-songwriter and background vocal guru. The WORLDVIEW unit was now complete.
A music video of the track “Illusions Of Love” can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=df7YPGLVp-A
WORLDVIEW line-up:
Rey Parra - Lead Vocals
George Rene Ochoa - Guitars, Keyboards & Background Vocals
Todd Libby - Bass guitar & Keyboards
Johnny Gonzales – Drums & Percussion
WORLDVIEW online: www.worldviewmetal.com & www.facebook.com/worldviewmetal
Tickets available at: www.eventbrite.com/e/bloodgood-worldview-join-the-dead-wickeds-end-tickets-22588235019
NEWS BRIEFS
* Samples to upcoming JOSHUA’S CREED album: http://joshuascreed.bandcamp.com/album/joshuas-creed-samples
* Michael Sweet (STRYPER) announced the title to his next solo album as One Sided War. More details forthcoming in terms of a release date, track listing and cover art.
* “Storm’s A Comin’”, new song from Matt Smith (THEOCRACY): www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6B-Otfqeq4
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE - “Invade” Video Premier:
Press Release / Poteau, OK based melodic metal and hard rock act CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE has released a video for the track “Invade”, which comes off its Oz Fox (STRYPER) produced 2014 first full-length album Get The Hell Out.
Chip Rossetti of Rossetti Productions put together the video, which captures the rawness and energy of a CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE live performance.
Founded in 2006 by vocalist Travis McConnell (aka Rexx Roxx), CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE debuted its “high intensity (and) in your face (brand of) metal” that hits like an “out of control freight train coming at you a million miles an hour” on its debut EP releases, Chaotic Resemblance (2012) and Battle Lines (2013).
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE, drawing its moniker from Isaiah 40:18 (To whom then will ye liken God? Or what likeness will you compare unto him?), believes that “No matter how good of Christians we are, we would never be more than a ‘chaotic resemblance’ of Christ”. Hence, the bands motives to “shine the light of Jesus to a hurting world” and corresponding willingness as “sold out Christians devoted to Jesus” to “play anywhere from a bar to a church”. The CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE press material best sums things up: “Today's world is full of so much hate, lies & deceit. We offer love and hope through rock 'n roll.”
The 80% Angelic Warlord review described Get The Hell Out as “a youthful and energetic joining of hair, glam and melodic metal” that draws equally from “strong doses of late eighties Sunset Strip influenced hard rock”.
Get The Hell Out track listing:
1. “Invade”
2. “Get The Hell Out”
3. “Son Of Man”
4. “Candy Land”
5. “Star”
6. “Don’t Walk Alone”
7. “The Cost”
8. “Super Hero”
9. “Greatest Show Alive”
10. “Sin”
11. “War Paint”
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE online: www.chaoticresemblance.com & www.facebook.com/Chaotic-Resemblance
DELIVERANCE Confirmed For Exodo Festival:
Press Release / Legendary metal and thrash act DELIVERANCE will be taking the stage at Mexico City’s Exodo Festival, scheduled for March 24-26, 2016. Joining founding member and vocalist/rhythm guitarist Jimmy P. Brown II will be veteran lead guitarist George Ochoa, who has gained renown for his previous work in DELIVERANCE in addition to power metal act RECON and the melodic power/progressive metal of his new group WORLDVIEW.
DELIVERANCE burst onto the scene in 1986 with its critically acclaimed Greetings Of Death demo prior to Brown being accompanied by guitarist Glenn Rogers, bassist Brian Khairullah and drummer Chris Hyde for the unique METALLICA meets QUEENSRYCHE melodic speed metal and thrash of its 1989 Intense Records self-titled debut. Ochoa supplanted Rogers for the highly regarded 1990 magnum opus Weapons Of Our Warfare and follow up effort What A Joke from 1991 (both Intense), the final of the DELIVERANCE thrash era releases.
Rounding out the DELIVERANCE Exodo Festival line up will be bassist Victor Macias (ex TOURNIQUET), and drummer Jim Chaffin (ex CRUCIFIED.
We last heard from DELIVERANCE in 2013 when 3 Frogz Records and Roxx Records released (what is reputed to be) its swan song effort Hear What I Say! on December 10.
Footage of DELIVERANCE performing “Weapons Of Are Warfare” in 2014 can be seen below:
DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks
Exodo Festival online: www.facebook.com/exodofestival/?fref=nf
STAIRWAY – “Lacy Fuhr” Streaming Online:
Press Release / “Lacy Fuhr”, a song off the forthcoming sixth full-length STAIRWAY album Power And Glory, is available for streaming at YouTube. The veteran UK traditional metal act is releasing Power & Glory in follow up to its most recent album from 2010, Interregnum.
According to vocalist and guitarist Graeme Leslie, Power And Glory promises “to be chock full of all the STAIRWAY things you love and some surprises as well”.
The Book of Revelation themed album artwork was contributed by Rodney Matthews, who also produced the cover art for Interregnum and the group’s 1993 full-length debut No Rest: No Mercy.
Power And Glory track listing:
1. “Lucy Fuhr”
2. “1917 - Fatherless Child”
3. “Overture 1418”
4. “A Mind Insane”
5. “Reason Why”
6. “Sun Of Malachi”
7. “Raise Our Hands”
8. “Godz
9. World In Black”
10. “Interlude”
11. “Across The Moon”
STAIRWAY line up:
Graeme Leslie - Lead Vocals, Guitars, Bass & Keyboards
Pete Jennens - Guitar
Andy Edwards - Drums
STAIRWAY online: www.stairwayonline.co.uk & www.facebook.com/stairwaytheband
NEWS BRIEFS
* The set list for the upcoming STRYPER tour in support of Fallen will consist of 21 songs, including a medley of three. The group starts rehearsals in Las Vegas in early April. Further details: www.stryper.com/Tour/tour.html
When asked if he could give any hints (in terms of specific songs), vocalist Michael Sweet responded (Facebook – February 25, 2016) by suggesting, “I can't give you any hints, but I guarantee that if you come on rock that will make me wanna sing and although we're not against the law, we always surrender to Yahweh.”
* “UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS announce new single (Facebook - February 26, 2015) “Christ The Lord Is Risen Today!”, the first single from the UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS, is counting down to Monday for Pre-Orders on Feb 28th on ITunes. The song features David Ellefson (MEGADETH) on bass, Brennan Smiley (THE TECHNICOLORS) on guitars, Jeff Ochletree on drums, Billy Smiley on guitars, harmonies, and keys, and of course the incredible John W. Schlitt on lead vocals. Enjoy the Easter season! More coming your way, so stay tuned for announcements... Available for purchase on March 4th”.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
INNERWISH - “Needles In My Mind” Lyric Video Released:
Press Release / Athens, Greece based melodic heavy metal band INNERWISH has released a lyrics video for the track “Needles In My Mind”, which comes off their upcoming self-titled album. InnerWish will be available on CD, vinyl, tape and for digital download on March 18th through Ulterium Records in Europe and North America. Bickee Music will issue the album in Japan on March 30th.
InnerWish was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Peter In De Betou (ARCH ENEMY, OPETH, AMON AMARTH). Album artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, XANDRIaA) and the design was done by Jan Yrlund (KORPIKLAANI, APOCALYPTICA, MANOWAR).
Commented the band regarding InnerWish:
"This is the first album with our new lineup, and we hope this lineup will be unchanged for many years since we now feel stronger, more confident and sure about ourselves than ever before. For those reasons we chose InnerWish as the title of our new album because it represents us in the most exact way. We are very proud of this album. It might sound very common, but it's the truth for us: this is the best INNERWISH album so far! Heavy, aggressive, modern, melodic and diverse at the same time, with all the classical INNERWISH elements, combined with some new ones. It might have been 6 years since the release of No Turning Back but all the difficult times we've been through made us stronger and the result is this new, fifth album of InnerWish. We are back for good!"
InnerWish track listing:
1. “Roll The Dice”
2. “Broken”
3. “Modern Babylon”
4. “Machines Of Fear”
5. “Needles In My Mind”
6. “My World On Fire”
7. “Rain Of A Thousand Years”
8. “Serenity”
9. “Sins Of The Past”
10. “Through My Eyes”
11. “Zero Ground”
12. “Cross The Line”
13. “Tame The Seven Seas”
The song "Rain Of A Thousand Years" from the album can also be streamed at YouTube. https://youtu.be/sfdla3ZsbEE
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/innerwishofficial
NEWS BRIEFS
* Sweden’s LEVITICUS has a 5 CD and one DVD box set in the works. Look for a release in the spring of 2016.
* Track listing for sophomore OBLIVION MYTH album Inside The Mirror: “Binding The Darkness”, “Sea of Tranquility”, “Between Light And Shadow”, “Battle Angels”, “Inside The Mirror”, “Daybreak”, “Hallowed Oath”, “Everlasting Fire”, “Beyond This Home”, “Absence Of Malevolence”, “Warchild”, “Venom Of Vices”
The group is planning an April of 2016 release.
The tracks “Warchild” and “Between Light And Shadow” are streaming at the OBLIVION MYTH ReverbNation page: www.reverbnation.com/oblivionmyth
Footage of THEOCRACY performing a new song, “Ghost Ship”, at Christmas Rock Night 2015: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUz5_b0Pz3c
* Update from STAIRWAY regarding new album, Power & Glory (Facebook - February 18, 2016): “Been working hard over the last few weeks on the new STAIRWAY album - just mixed the last song. Will live with the mixes for a few days before we go to master, then it's all steam ahead for pressing. We're so excited for you to hear it, we feel it's our best album yet!”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
RECON - “Dreams” Official Lyric Video Premier:
Press Release / Lux Studio and Roxx Records have joined forces to premiere the "Dreams" lyric video from classic Christian metal band RECON.
As part of the recently announced 25th anniversary reissue of the band's monumental 1990 debut album Behind Enemy Lines, fans can enjoy this exclusive lyric video of the brand new completely re-mastered track entitled "Dreams". 2016 marks RECON's 25th anniversary, and they will celebrate with a completely re-mastered and expanded CD edition of Behind Enemy Lines in addition to for the first time in North America a limited edition vinyl pressing.
RECON burst on to the metal scene in 1988 with a 4-track cassette-only demo, which was the norm back when file sharing was mix tapes sent through the mail to and from tape traders. The band soon followed this up with two classic tracks that were released on the Regency Records compilation, California Metal 2. Then, in 1990, Intense/Frontline Records released the power metal of the band’s full-length debut, Behind Enemy Lines.
RECON was originally launched by DELIVERANCE axe master George Ochoa, who also produced Behind Enemy Lines. The album was originally released on CD and cassette tape, both of which are extremely rare and hard to find today. There was even a one-time CD reissue from M8 records, which is equally as rare to find. Collectors might have been lucky enough to get their hands on a copy of a small run of a European-only release on vinyl. Traders in rare Christian metal will tell you that this vinyl release is “next to impossible to find” today. All that changes with this Limited Edition re-release on Roxx Records.
This special one-time Limited Edition vinyl reissue of this classic metal album features all the original tracks completely re-mastered for vinyl on both colored and black vinyl. The album is set to feature the original album art, completely restored and enhanced for this special pressing. This one-time pressing features 100 copies on orange vinyl and 200 on black vinyl, for a total pressing of only 300 pieces.
There will also be a very special Limited Edition CD pressing of only 300 copies, which is set to feature all of the original tracks from the album completely restored and re-mastered. The CD will also include 4 additional bonus tracks. These tracks will be both tracks from the original California Metal 2 compilation and 2 of the original 4 demo tracks that helped launch Recon.
These bonus tracks also get a special re-release treatment. George Ochoa located the original master reels of these demos and had the tapes baked, digitized and completely restored and re-mastered for this special release. These recently found and restored demos sound crisper and better than ever before. No one has ever heard these demos like this before.
RECON’s Behind Enemy Lines is scheduled to be released on March 18, 2016. This coming year is set to be an excellent year for Christian metal fans and Roxx Records are just getting started. “We have much more in store for you as this year goes on,” promises Bill Bafford, “so stay tuned!”
Visit www.roxxproductions.com and sign up on their email list to get the latest news and pre-order packages.
NEWS BRIEFS
* Terry Friesen released his sophomore solo album, Windchill Factor, last month. According to the artist, ‘expect eight songs of in your face hard rock and metal’. Included is a metal guitar adaption of Antonio Vivaldi’s “Winter”, which was originally composed in the 1700’s.
Friesen has gained renown as lead vocalist and guitarist of the at times Gothic and others doom-like progressive metal band of SOMBRE HOLIDAY. Three full-length albums are credited to SOMBRE HOLIDAY: In Search For Understanding (2009), Four Shadows (2012) and An Hour Of Light (2014).
The track “Gone Again” is available for streaming at: https://terryfriesen.bandcamp.com/album/windchill-factor
* PHILADELPHIA has completed work on its upcoming album Warlord, which is scheduling for a mid-March release. Engineer and producer Ritchie Wicander will be handling mixing and mastering. Further details as they become available in terms of cover art and track listing.
Many will recall PHILADELPHIA from its mid-eighties Patmos Records releases Tell The Truth (1984) and Search And Destroy (1985). The group started work on demo material of what would have been its third album but broke up before entering the studio.
Further details: https://www.facebook.com/Philadelphia
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
RECON - Behind Enemy Lines Reissue Announced By Roxx Records:
Press Release / Roxx Records is extremely excited to be re-releasing one of Classic Christian Metal’s most celebrated artists – RECON! This March the label will deliver a special 25th anniversary Limited Edition pressing of Behind Enemy Lines on both CD and vinyl.
RECON burst on to the metal scene in 1988 with a 4-track cassette-only demo, which was the norm back when file sharing was mix tapes sent through the mail to and from tape traders. The band soon followed this up with two classic tracks that were released on the Regency Records compilation, California Metal 2. Then, in 1990, Intense/Frontline Records released the power metal of the band’s full-length debut, Behind Enemy Lines.
RECON was originally launched by DELIVERANCE axe master George Ochoa, who also produced Behind Enemy Lines. The album was originally released on CD and cassette tape, both of which are extremely rare and hard to find today. There was even a one-time CD reissue from M8 records, which is equally as rare to find. Collectors might have been lucky enough to get their hands on a copy of a small run of a European-only release on vinyl. Traders in rare Christian metal will tell you that this vinyl release is “next to impossible to find” today. All that changes with this Limited Edition re-release on Roxx Records.
This special one-time Limited Edition vinyl reissue of this classic metal album features all the original tracks completely re-mastered for vinyl on both colored and black vinyl. The album is set to feature the original album art, completely restored and enhanced for this special pressing. This one-time pressing features 100 copies on orange vinyl and 200 on black vinyl, for a total pressing of only 300 pieces.
There will also be a very special Limited Edition CD pressing of only 300 copies, which is set to feature all of the original tracks from the album completely restored and re-mastered. The CD will also include 4 additional bonus tracks. These tracks will be both tracks from the original California Metal 2 compilation and 2 of the original 4 demo tracks that helped launch Recon.
These bonus tracks also get a special re-release treatment. George Ochoa located the original master reels of these demos and had the tapes baked, digitized and completely restored and re-mastered for this special release. These recently found and restored demos sound crisper and better than ever before. No one has ever heard these demos like this before.
RECON’s Behind Enemy Lines is scheduled to be released on March 18, 2016. This coming year is set to be an excellent year for Christian metal fans and Roxx Records are just getting started. “We have much more in store for you as this year goes on,” promises Bill Bafford, “so stay tuned!”
Visit www.roxxproductions.com and sign up on their email list to get the latest news and pre-order packages.
WORLDVIEW To Open For STRYPER on April 24:
WORLDVIEW will be performing its first show ever by opening for legendary melodic metal act STRYPER on Sunday, April 24 at the world famous Whisky a Go Go, West Hollywood, CA.
Commented guitarist George Ochoa: “It’s an honor for WORLDVIEW to do our debut show with STRYPER. We really look forward to seeing and hanging out with many of you.”
WORLDVIEW is a melodic power and progressive metal outfit that features members from iconic groups such as SACRED WARRIOR, DELIVERANCE and RECON.
The groups spring of 2015 M24 Music Group full length debut The Chosen few is packed with a host of celebrity guest players: Oz Fox (STRYPER) playing a blazing lead guitar, Les Carlsen (BLOODGOOD) laying down a dramatic guest vocal, Jimmy P. Brown (DELIVERANCE) cutting some low and powerful background vocals. Larry Farkas (VENGEANCE RISING, DIE HAPPY) also shreds with his tasty licks, Armand Meinbardis (Rob Rock) dazzling with his violin and piano playing, and Niki Bente gracing the record with her lovely voice on the title track.
The Chosen Few artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, JORN), while Bill Metoyer (FATES WARNING, SLAYER, W.A.S.P.) handled mixing and mastering duties.
WORLDVIEW formed in Los Angeles when George Rene Ochoa (DELIVERANCE, RECAON, VENGENACE RISING) and Rey Parra (SACRED WARRIOR) spoke soon after their mutual friend Rick Macias (SACRED WARRIOR) passed away. He had always encouraged them to form a band together and though they were miles apart, Rick thought that it would be a great collaboration. Regrettably, he passed away before this would ever take place. So George and Rey decided to form this union to honor their friend and thus WORLDVIEW was born. The lineup includes the addition of John Gonzales (RECON, DELIVERANCE) on drums and Todd Libby on bass guitar and keyboards. Ronson Webster also joined them as co-songwriter and background vocal guru. The WORLDVIEW unit was now complete.
A music video of the track “Illusions Of Love” can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=df7YPGLVp-A
WORLDVIEW line-up:
Rey Parra - Lead Vocals
George Rene Ochoa - Guitars, Keyboards & Background Vocals
Todd Libby - Bass guitar & Keyboards
Johnny Gonzales – Drums & Percussion
The Chosen Few track listing:
1. “Mortality”
2. “Illusions Of Love”
3. “Back In Time”
4. “The Mirror”
5. “Why?”
6. “Prisoner Of Pain”
7. “Two Wonders”
8. “Walk Through Fire”
9. “The Chosen Few”
10. “The Last Cry”
WORLDVIEW online: www.worldviewmetal.com & www.facebook.com/worldviewmetal
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
STAIRWAY reveals track listing to new album, Power And Glory:
Veteran UK classic metal outfit STAIRWAY released the final track listing to its upcoming album entitled Power & Glory. The groups sixth studio album, released in follow up to 2010’s Interregnum, promises (according to vocalist and guitarist Graeme Leslie) “to be chock full of all the STAIRWAY things you love and some surprises as well”.
The Book of Revelation themed album artwork (above) was contributed by Rodney Matthews, who also provided the cover art for Interregnum and the group’s 1993 full-length debut No Rest: No Mercy.
PowerAnd Glory track listing:
1. “Lucy Fuhr”
2. “1917 - Fatherless Child”
3. “Overture 1418”
4. “A Mind Insane”
5. “Reason Why”
6. “Sun Of Malachi”
7. “Raise Our Hands”
8. “Godz
9. World In Black”
10. “Interlude”
11. “Across The Moon”
STAIRWAY line up:
Graeme Leslie - Lead Vocals, Guitars, Bass & Keyboards
Pete Jennens - Guitar
Andy Edwards - Drums -
STAIRWAY online: www.stairwayonline.co.uk & www.facebook.com/stairwaytheband
THE UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS, Featuring Members of PETRA & WHITEHEART
Press Release / John Schlitt, lead singer of PETRA, and Billy Smiley, guitarist, singer, and founding member of WHITEHEART, are excited to announce a new album and worldwide tour for 2016. Targeting main stages of festivals, theme parks, fairs, and special events, the guys have put together an album and historical show with some of the most memorable songs from both groups as well as introducing some dramatic new compositions.
THE UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS will feature members from 2 of the best selling Christian Rock Bands of all time. Selling over 12 million records between them, more than 25, #1 songs, and over 15 Grammy and 40 Dove nominations and awards, they will perform many #1 songs like “Beyond Belief”, “Independence Day”, “The Coloring Song”, “The River Will Flow”, “Hit You Where You Live”, “Desert Rose”, and a special Foo Fighters cover.
This smashup now results in the release of a new CD available exclusively at Lifeway Stores in June 2016 and digitally on iTunes worldwide. The project of eight new originals, and updated versions of PETRA and WHITEHEART classics will be a must for fans of both groups. John Ellis, lead singer from TREE 63, will be featured on guitar and vocals. New artist Jason Fowler, whom Smiley produced, will also join guys on the road.
Schlitt says, “The idea of a new project really intrigued both of us. With our histories, it only made sense to feature the favorites of PETRA and WHITEHEART along with some of the new songs we were writing in the studio.” Thus, the name THE UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS (U.S.S.)
Smiley adds, “John and I got together last fall, started writing some songs and discussed both of our histories and journeys. After seeing the chemistry and friendship that developed, we were excited with the new material, and started brainstorming about taking this smashup out on the road this year.”
While writing these songs, Schlitt said, “We realized we had a lot of new ideas swirling around in our heads that we wanted to share, both musically and lyrically; songs that were on our hearts and minds, yet we also wanted to celebrate with all of our friends and fans some of the memorable songs, moments, and performances that they have been a part of over the years.”
They both are in agreement, “We are anxious to do a rock event that is powerful and moving, one that long-time fans would appreciate and love enough to introduce and bring their kids to. The album and live events will incorporate the kind of artistry and ministry that will remind them of the early years of Christian Rock, but also usher in a new energy and excitement.”
THE UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS line up:
John Schlitt (PETRA) - Lead Vocals
Billy Smiley (WHITEHEART) - Guitar, Keyboards & Vocals
Anthony Sallee (WHITEHEART) - Bass
John Ellis (TREE 63) – Guitars & Vocals
THE UNION OF SINNERS AND SAINTS online: www.facebook.com/TheUnion7
NEWS BRIEFS
* Sweden’s HERO is currently mixing its new album, Passion. More details in terms of final track listing and release date as they become available.
* “Alive” and “Buried In The Womb”, samples of new songs from JOSHUA’S CREED. JOSHUA’S CREED is a music project based out of Kalispell, MT that is currently working on its debut album set for a March or April of 2016 release.
* Rey Parra will be doing a vocal cameo with Eli Prinsen on the upcoming SACRED WARRIOR single “Slave”. Expect it to be available the first week of March.
FEATURED REVIEWS
ARMOR OF GOD - Dark Face Of Greed
Armor Of God, with its penchant for amalgamating multiple forms of metal and dual female lead vocal approach, will put a smile on your face. Read Full Review >>
BLOODGOOD - Rock In A Hard Place (Retroactive re-issue)
It’s fair to say that each of the four eighties era Bloodgood albums has unique traits that set them apart from their siblings. Each has its fans, but many feel Rock In A Hard Place from 1988 was the most commercial. Read Full Review >>
BLOODGOOD - Out Of The Darkness (Retroactive re-issue)
There is no question that Out Of The Darkness, the Intense Records fourth full-length Bloodgood album from 1989, represents a heavier return to form for the reversed Seattle, Washington based act. Read Full Review >>
ENZO & THE GLORY ENSEMBLE - In The Name Of The Father
Enzo & The Glory Ensemble looks to be a strong contender within the melodic metal and power metal segments. Read Full Review >>
GIDEON’S ARMY - Rock N’ Roll For Your Soul (Retroactive Records re-issue)
Musically, early eighties Gideon’s Army took a strong rhythm and blues slant in featuring a jazzy horn section and duel guitar attack of founding members Dave Angels and Mike Banke. Read Full Review >>
GIDEON’S ARMY - Grace (Retroactive re-issue)
Grace might pick up where Warriors Of Love leaves off with a similar eighties influenced melodic rock basis but in the process takes things to the next level in terms of musicianship, production, songwriting and professionalism overall. Read Full Review >>
GLORIAM DEI - The Covenant
Actually, labeling Gloriam Dei ‘power metal’ might be misleading if not limiting in that while you will hear the trademark symphonic, epic and neo-classical components inherit to the genre, encountered at the same time are hints of melodic metal, AOR and melodic rock and even straightforward hard rock. Read Full Review >>
INFIDEL RISING - The Torn Wings Of Illusion
I am a sucker for any band to form a successful union of power and progressive metal, particularly those that place proper emphasis on the former (think anthem-like tendencies and the epic, classical & symphonic arrangements that go hand in hand) but do not stress latter to a fault (in terms of convoluted song structuring and unnecessarily lengthy track times). Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
PROTO-KAW - The Wait Of Glory New Version Released:
Musician, composer and author Kerry Livgren, best known for his work with the classic progressive rock band KANSAS, has partially re-recorded, re-mixed, re-mastered and re-issued (on Numavox Records) the third PROTO-KAW album The Wait Of Glory on December 12, 2015.
The Wait Of Glory originally saw release on Inside Out Records in 2006 in follow up to the PROTO-KAW sophomore album (also Inside Out) from 2004, Before Became After. The first PROTO-KAW release, Proto-Kaw: Early Recordings From Kansas, 1971-1973, came out on Cuneiform Records in 2002 and represents a re-issue of the demo recordings the group put together in the early seventies
Commented Livgren regarding The Wait Of Glory re-release:
“This recording has been partially re-recorded, re-mixed, and re-mastered. Why? Although there was certainly nothing overtly “wrong” with it, the original recording process became a bit rushed in the mix-down (they always do!) The more I listened to it, the more I believed it needed to be re-mixed, and some of the tracks re-recorded. I'm glad I did.”
According to the artist, he accomplished the following in the re-mix and re-recording process:
“The re-recording of the album involved three different procedures. First, entirely new tracks were recorded or overdubbed over some of the originals.
“The second category would be the “re-amping”of the original tracks. For instance, with microphones rather than direct to the console, or running an original guitar track through a different amplifier such as the Kemper Profiling Amp.
“The third is editing. Every track and sound was listened to meticulously, and edited if necessary.”
1. Drums: The recording contains all the original drum tracks by Mike Patrum, using acoustic drums only. They have been edited and re-EQ'd.
2. Keyboard Tracks: Any sampled Organ was removed and re-recorded using microphones and a real Leslie, or the PSP Lotary. Many of the existing keyboard sounds were redone with improved patches, plus there are several new overdubs.
3. Orchestral Tracks: Most of the tracks were redone with updated and improved instruments and samples.
4. Woodwind and Brass tracks: Little was done to John Bolton’s sax and flute, apart from some minor editing and EQ. There are, however, new brass overdubs.
5. Guitar Tracks: Contains Kerry's original guitar tracks, re-recorded by "re-amping". There are some licks and phrases that are newly recorded.
6. Vocal Tracks: Lynn Meredith’s , Jake Livgren’s, and Craig Kew’s vocals were edited and EQ'ed.
7. Bass Tracks: All of Craig's tracks are from the original, although several were re-amped and re-EQ'd.
“Conceptually, I sought to recreate this album with a more "organic and analog" feel, and a superior mix. We hope you enjoy this new version of The Wait of Glory.”
The Wait Of Glory track listing:
1. “Nevermore”
2. “Relics Of The Tempest”
3. “When The Rain Comes”
4. “On The Eve Of The Great Decline”
5. “Physics” (5:42)
6. “At Morning’s Gate”
7. “Melicus Gladiator”
8. “The Vigil”
9. “Old Number 63”
10. “Osvaldo’s Groceries”
11. “Picture This”
The Wait Of Glory ordering information: www.numavox.com/cd.htm
PŸLON - The Eternal Wedding Band, 10th Anniversary Edition Announced:
Press Release / In a certain way, Swiss doom metallers PŸLON have always been about looking back- looking back in a ‘born too late’ fashion when it comes to the ground-breaking history of that heavy doom rock sound that was spearheaded by multi-faceted gloom overlords like BLACK SABBATH, CANDLEMASS and COUNT RAVEN.
Ten years ago, PŸLON released their sophomore album, The Eternal Wedding Band on its own label, Quam Libet. Long gone is the last copy of the original CD, yet still new fans come a-knocking, hoping to be able to complete their collection of PŸLON original releases. It is for them that PŸLON and U.S. label Roxx Records are re-releasing this first installment of their early doom trilogy on February 26, 2016.
As a special added bonus to the new layout of this digipack edition, the band’s 2006 line-up briefly reformed to cut two tracks, the multi-facetted rocker “Of Sorrow & Doom” as well as the punky “Who Are They?”, both written but at the time not recorded for The Eternal Wedding Band.
A work-in-progress rehearsal run-through of the album’s secret hit, “Falling Into The Sun”, showing an earlier stage of the song’s development, as well as two live recordings from one of the band’s handful of live appearances in its 14-year history round off this collection aimed both at the new listener as well as at experienced PŸLON fans.
The Eternal Wedding Band, 10th Anniversary Edition track listing:
1. “And Thus It Ends…”
2. “Anaconda”
3. “Falling Into The Sun”
4. “Cannibal Coronal Mass Ejection (Part 1: The Black Sunrise; Part 2: Chaos Theory)”
5. “A Walk Through Wonderland”
6. “2046”
7. “The Cold Mirror”
8. “Fields Of Sorrow”
9. “In From The Futile Fields”
10. “L’épée dans mon Coeur”
11. “Checkmate 64”
12. “To My Brethren”
13. “Dementia”
Bonus Tracks:
1. “Of Sorrow & Doom” (new recording)
2. “Who Are They?” (new recording)
3. “Falling Into The Sun” (rehearsal)
4. “Falling Into The Sun” (live)
5. “In The Shade” (live)
Almost entirely pre-flute-and-keyboards epics, The Eternal Wedding Band is the rocking older brother of Doom (2009) and Armoury Of God (2011), and spreads before the listener 13 aspects of death in an original variety of inspired lyrics and musical concepts. This will be a one-time limited edition pressing of only 200 pieces in honor of the 10th anniversary of this landmark release which will be a split release between Roxx Records and Quam Libet Records, with 50% remaining in the United States and 50% being distributed in Europe.
PŸLON’s sixth album, Homo Homini Lupus, was released in 2014 also on Roxx Records. The effort saw NOMAD SON’s Jordan Cutajar handling lead vocals and contained PŸLON’s most metal material to date as well as a one-of-a-kind cover version of SLAYERS’s “South Of Heaven” on which the bass duties were handled by STRYPER’s Tim Gaines. PŸLON are currently recording their next album release, A Lament, to be released on Roxx Records later in 2016.
For full details on this release and other Roxx Records happenings please visit us at: www.roxxproductions.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
PŸLON online: www.pylon-doom.net & www.facebook.com/pylondoom
Vocalist Rus Gib Returns to TRUE STRENGTH:
Press Release / The oft-delayed sophomore album of TRUE STRENGTH entitled Steel Evangelist receives new life as a result of Rus Gib, vocalist of debut release The Cross Will Always Prevail, returning to the line-up to re-record lead vocals. Steel Evangelist has suffered a series of production and post-production delays since the group first announced its release in August of 2015. TRUE STRENGTH is no longer committing to a specific release date as Rus is being given time to record his vocals without pressure.
During this period, the band is re-mixing and resolving issues with the production to accommodate any changes. TRUE STRENGTH apologizes deeply for all of the delays but assures fans that the album will be the best that it can possibly be and will not sacrifice quality at any level. Guitarist Ryan "The Archangel" Darnell comments further: "This album will be worth the wait. It is an album that is being done for the glory of Jesus Christ and anything less than perfection will be a disservice to Him and to you the supporters of TRUE STRENGTH."
Following is the revised TRUE STRENGTH line-up for Steel Evangelist:
Rus Gib - Lead Vocals
Ryan "The Archangel" Darnell - Rhythm/Lead Guitar & Bass
Josh Cirbo - Lead Guitar
Ryan Mey - Drums
Steel Evangelist track listing:
1. “No Cheek Left To Turn”
2. “Steel Evangelist”
3. “Cilician Gates”
4. “Don't Take The Mark Of The Beast”
5. “The Fall Of The Ripest Apple”
6. “Gabriel The Archangel”
7. “Woe To The Sons Of Ishmael”
8. “Blood Waters The Cedars Of Lebanon”
9. “Twenty-One Martyrs Clothed In Orange”
10. “The War We Fight”
In related news, TRUE STRENGTH announces Scandinavian CD distribution through Nordic Mission:
In addition to Underground Power Records out of Germany, TRUE STRENGTH's debut album The Cross Will Always Prevail will soon be available for purchase on CD via Nordic Mission out of Norway! The album was only available in digital format since its initial release in the summer of 2014. Future TRUE STRENGTH releases are expected to be available through Nordic Mission as well, including the upcoming sophomore album Steel Evangelist. Updates regarding these releases will be available through Nordic Mission's website, TRUE STRENGTH's Facebook and here at Angelic Warlord.
You can purchase The Cross Will Always Prevail on CD's here (check for availability with Nordic Mission first): www.nordicmission.net
TRUE STRENGTH online: www.facebook.com/True-Strength
NEWS BRIEFS
* BraveWords interview with DIVINER lead vocalist Yiannis Papanikolaou: http://bravewords.com/features/diviner-heavy-metal-journey
* “Purple Heart, Silver Cross”, new song from WALES ROAD: www.reverbnation.com/walesroad/song/1596803-purple-heart-silver-cross
* Power And Glory is the title to the new STAIRWAY album. Several new song titles include “Lucy Fuhr”, “1917 - Fatherless Child”, “A Mind Insane”, “Reason Why”, “Raise Our Hands” & “Godz”. A release date is yet to be announced. Cover art (courtesy of Rodney Matthews) can be viewed at the groups Facebook page: www.facebook.com/stairwaytheband
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ESSENCE OF SORROW Announce New Vocalist, Germán Pascual:
Press Release / ESSENCE OF SORROW has announced Germán Pascual (ex-Mind's Eye, ex-Narnia) as its new lead vocalist.
The Finnish/Swedish melodic power metal band founded by Jani Stefanovic (SOLUTION .45, MISERATION, DIVINEFIRE), released in 2006 its Rivel Records debut album Reflections Of The Obscure, which featured departed co-front men Christian Palin (RANDOM EYES, ex-Adagio) and Mats Leven ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, Gus G., ex-THERION, CANDLEMAS).
ESSENCE OF SORROW started as an active live act, performing shows in Scandinavia and northern parts of Europe. Despite getting off to a promising start, the band was placed on hold after hitting some bumps in the road.
The plan all along was to set ESSENCE OF SORROW in motion again once the right opportunity arose. That time has come and after a few years of silence, the band is back in business. ESSENCE OF SORROW has a new lineup and is now working on new material, which it plans to release in 2016.
The 90% Angelic Warlord review described Reflections Of The Obscure as “a combination of melodic metal and power metal with occasional progressive touches” that also proved a “noteworthy effort (due to) its catchy hooks (and) solid melody structures”.
ESSENCE OF SORROW line up:
Germán Pascual – Lead Vocals
Jani Stefanovic - Guitars
Tom Gardiner - Guitars
Jaakko Nikko - Bass
Rolf Pilve - Drums
ESSENCE OF SORROW online: www.facebook.com/essenceofsorrow
INNERWISH - Innerwish Details Revealed, Song Streaming:
Press Release / The Greek melodic metal band INNERWISH will release their new album entitled InnerWish on March 18th in Europe and North America via Ulterium Records. The album will be available on CD, LP, Tape and for digital download. Bickee Music will issue the album in Japan on March 30th.
A song off the album, “Rain Of A Thousand Years”, can be listened to above.
InnerWish was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Peter In De Betou (ARCH ENEMY, OPETH, AMON AMARTH). Album artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE, XANDRIaA) and the design was done by Jan Yrlund (KORPIKLAANI, APOCALYPTICA, MANOWAR).
Commented the band regarding InnerWish:
"This is the first album with our new lineup, and we hope this lineup will be unchanged for many years since we now feel stronger, more confident and sure about ourselves than ever before. For those reasons we chose InnerWish as the title of our new album because it represents us in the most exact way. We are very proud of this album. It might sound very common, but it's the truth for us: this is the best INNERWISH album so far! Heavy, aggressive, modern, melodic and diverse at the same time, with all the classical INNERWISH elements, combined with some new ones. It might have been 6 years since the release of No Turning Back but all the difficult times we've been through made us stronger and the result is this new, fifth album of InnerWish. We are back for good!"
InnerWish track listing:
1. “Roll The Dice”
2. “Broken”
3. “Modern Babylon”
4. “Machines Of Fear”
5. “Needles In My Mind”
6. “My World On Fire”
7. “Rain Of A Thousand Years”
8. “Serenity”
9. “Sins Of The Past”
10. “Through My Eyes”
11. “Zero Ground”
12. “Cross The Line”
13. “Tame The Seven Seas”
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/innerwishofficial
SIGNUM REGIS - “Quitters Never Win” Music Video Released”:
Press Release / Senec, Slovakia based melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS just released a music video for the song "Quitters Never Win" online. The group’s new album Chapter IV: Reckoning was released on November 20th through Ulterium Records.
Chapter IV: The Reckoning was mastered by Jens Bogren (SYMPHONY X, OPETH, ARCH ENEMY) and the artwork was created by Jan Yrlund (DELAIN, APOCALYPTICA, KORPIKLAANI).
Chapter IV: The Reckoning track listing:
1. “Lost And Found”
2. “The Secret Of The Sea”
3. “The Voice In The Wilderness”
4. “Prophet Of Doom”
5. “The Magi”
6. “Quitters Never Win”
7. “Tempter Of Evil”
8. “When Freedom Fails”
9. “The Kingdom Of Heaven”
10. “Bells Are Tolling”
Upcoming SIGNUM REGIS shows:
March 3rd: P3 - Purmerend, Netherlands
March 4th: De Kei - Ede, Netherlands
March 5th: Fullmetal Osthessen - Niederjossa, Germany
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/signum.regis
Preview Every Track On THE WORLD WILL BURN Debut Album, Severity:
Courtesy of www.mauce.nl:
THE WORLD WILL BURN (the new band of vocalist Dale Thompson) has checked in with the following announcement:
“We are very close to having the CDs available, but for our closest fans we are making EVERY TRACK ON THE ALBUM available for preview on our website. We are also making SEVERITY available for PURCHASE as an MP3 download beginning TODAY! You can purchase individual tracks in either the music section or the store section, and the entire CD can be purchased in the STORE section. We told you we are making our music affordable and we are! Song downloads are only .99 cents. Forget that and download all 13 tracks for only $9.99! Listen, download, turn it up, and share! Please respond with your thoughts in the comments to this post!”
THE WORLD WILL BURN is a unique worldwide collaboration between Dale Thompson and Alan Zaring. Dale, who lives in New Zealand, and Alan, who lives in the United States, have been working together remotely to create music that transcends culture, language, and genres. THE WORLD WILL BURN is focused on emotion and passion instead of commercial pressure. Their soon to be released CD promises to change the way you look at hard rock music. New, fresh sounds combined with classic influences merged with thoughtful lyrics. Power merged with grace. Explosiveness married to innocence. Rage fused with compassion.
Dale Thompson has over 20 studio releases to date, and is best known as front man for the well known band BRIDE. His vocals are legendary and he is consistently considered one of the top singers in heavy music worldwide. Dale takes his talents to new heights with THE WORLD WILL BURN.
Alan Zaring is a multi-instrumentalist who has been a part of numerous projects of all genres through the years. He has focused his efforts into the music of his passion, heavy, hook-filled, guitar driven rock. Alan plays or programs all of the instruments on the upcoming CD.
Alan Zaring (guitars) recently told us: “These songs wrote themselves. Dale and I were merely the tools. We realized early on in the process that we would be making music that is totally different than other heavy music being marketed today. It seems like so much of the metal these days sounds alike and follows a “formula” for success. We hope that these songs will be difficult to classify as “sounds like ________”. We wanted to be heavy but completely different and I think we were successful. I hope you like it!”
“What are the songs about? I think the beauty of Dale’s lyrics are fact that each person finds a personal connection to his songs and believes they are certain of its meaning. His words are sometimes vague but hit home with each listener on such a personal level that I hesitate to ruin it for anyone by telling them that the song is about something else completely. Does that make sense to you? I hope so!”
“What I can do is tell you that the entire CD is about the journey…not the destination. Going forth into the unknown and learning lessons. I will send you the lyrics of each song. Perhaps they will speak to you on a personal level. That is what we are shooting for.”
THE WORLD WILL BURN online: http://theworldwillburn.com/music & www.facebook.com/twwb2016
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
WAKEN EYES - “Deafening Thoughts” Guitar Play Through Video Released:
Press Release / The all-star progressive metal band WAKEN EYES just released a guitar ‘play through’ video for the song "Deafening Thoughts" with the bands guitar player Tom Frelek. The WAKEN EYES debut album Exodus is out now in Europe and North America through Ulterium Records.
Exodus is a very impressive and diverse album that will surely appeal to fans of progressive metal, prog-rock and melodic metal. The album has a great mix of catchy melodies, challenging instrumental parts and epic cinematic movements that will surely capture the attention of the musical community. Everything comes together perfectly in the title track that ends the album with its 18 minutes long epic filled with melodies, progressive parts and a good dose of feeling.
Exodus was mixed and mastered at Fascination Street Studios (OPETH, SYMPHONY X, KREATOR) in Sweden, while the layout was made by Jan Yrlund (DELAIN, KORPIKLAANI, APOCALYPTICA).
Link to the music video for the track "Palisades": https://youtu.be/JE23aUTNyEk
Link to the lyric video for the track "Back To Life": https://youtu.be/Xx6aRjSS4yk
Link to an album teaser for Exodus: https://youtu.be/Oax5wboikKw
Exodus track listing:
1. “Cognition”
2. “Aberration”
3. "Deafening Thoughts
4. “Back To Life”
5. “Palisades”
6. “Cornerstone Away”
7. “Still Life”
8. “Arise”
9. “Across The Horizon”
10. “Exodus”
WAKEN EYES line up:
Henrik Båth (DARKWATER) - Lead Vocals
Tom Frelek – Guitars, Keyboards, Orchestration
Mike Lepond (SYMPHONY X) - Bass
Marco Minnemann (THE ARISTOCRATS, Steven Wilson, Joe Satriani) - Drums
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
WAKEN EYES online: www.facebook.com/wakeneyes
NEWS BRIEFS
* Michael Sweet interview with Totally Driven Radio: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUvvQ5xhA18
According to the artist, he just finished tracking his upcoming solo album (untitled at the time of this writing). Mixing starts January 18, 2016.
* NARNIA, “The Mission” Live in Switzerland 2015 Elements of Rock:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbeLxoswB8c
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
METATRONE - “Latest News From The Light” Video Premier:
Press Release / “Latest News From The Light”, the new video from Catania, Italy based melodic power progressive metal act METATRONE, can be seen above. The song comes off the group’s fourth full-length album Eucharismetal, which is slated for release by Rockshots Music on March 11, 2016.
The video, which presents a modern day recount of the Prodigal Son, was written and produced by Antonio Ignoto, while editing and mastering took place at Alpha Vision Productions.
Eucharismetal, similar to past METATRONE albums, reflects the group’s Catholic Christian worldview. METATRONE roughly translates as “God is since, now and forever”,
Commented guitarist Stefano Calvagno regarding Eucharismetal: “We are very satisfied, we’ve worked hard for many months on this record and it sounds great. It’s the best album we’ve ever recorded, we felt relaxed and confident during the songwriting process thanks to the help of Dino (Fiorenza/bass) and Salvo (Grasso/drums). We paid a lot of attention on the arrangements, we grew up a lot musically, it’s a mature album and I think it could be a masterpiece of White Metal”.
Nello Dell’Omo contributed the Eucharismetal cover art.
METATRONE line up:
Jo Lombardo – Lead Vocas
Stefano "Ghigas" Calvagno – Guitars
Davide Bruno - Keyboards
Dino Fiorenza (Billy Sheehan, Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert, John Macaluso) - Bass
Salvo "T-Metal" Grasso (HYPERSONIC, DENIED) - Drums
Eucharismetal track listing:
1. “Alef Dalet Mem”
2. “Molokai”
3. “Beware The Sailor”
4. “Wheat And Weeds”
5. “Latest News From Light”
6. “In Spirit And Truth”
7. “Mozart's Nightmare”
8. “Keep Running”
9. “Salva l'Anima”
10. “Una Parte Di me”
11. “Regina Coeli”
12. “Alef Dalet Mem” (Italian Version - Bonus Track)
13. “Lascia Che Sia” (Bonus Track)
Rockshot Music plans to re-release with bonus tracks the two previous full-length METATRONE albums, The Powerful Hand (2007) and Paradigma (2010).
Eucharismetal pre-order: http://metatrone.bigcartel.com
METATRONE online: www.metatrone.net & www.facebook.com/metatroneband
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE Update:
As taken from the groups Facebook page (January 7, 2015):
“God has opened some awesome doors for Chaotic! We couldn't be anymore thrilled to see what all He has in store for us in 2106. As you see from the new photo shoot (photo credit to John Barry) we are taking a new direction with the band.
From 2006 'til now Chaotic has gone through countless members, and the truth is we do not want to take new pics every time we go out on tour.
“No, we are not gonna change the musical style or just be a 2 piece, in fact we intend on playing as a 5 piece band. We have hired Pro's for now until God sends us the right guys. Travis McConnell and LA Ellis will be the only actual members of the group. Chaotic Resemblance is a touring band. In fact we are not just a band we are a Ministry. It's extremely hard to have families and bills and hit the road and believe that God is going to provide, ‘’But He always does!’'
“We don’t do this for fame or fortune. We do this for the love of music, people and because this is our Calling from God.
Along with gigs and tours we also plan on dropping a video very, very soon and a new single this year so please stay tuned for dates & details!
“We will be playing our first show of 2016 at our favorite venue Counts Vamp'd Feb. 5th. This is our 2nd time opening for Y&T and you never know who will walk in the door at Vamp'd, please come out if you’re in the Vegas area!”
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE, drawing its moniker from Isaiah 40:18 (To whom then will ye liken God? Or what likeness will you compare unto him?), debuted with the EP releases Chaotic Resemblance (2012) and Battle Lines (2013) prior to following up with its OZ Fox (STRYPER) produced full length debut Get The Hell Out (2014).
Musically, CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE describes itself as “high intensity (and) in your face metal” that can be compared to “an out of control freight train coming at you a million miles an hour”. The immediate impression left by Get The Hell Out (as taken from the 80% Angelic Warlord review) “is a youthful and energetic joining of hair, glam and melodic metal” with “strong doses of late eighties Sunset Strip influenced hard rock not unlike FASTER PUSSYCAT, HANOI ROCKS, KIX, JUNKYARD and LA GUNS (MAIN LINE RIDERS and Bombs Over Broadway era SQUAD 5-O deserve mention from the Christian side of the fence).”
CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE online: www.chaoticresemblance.com & www.facebook.com/Chaotic-Resemblance
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ENZO & THE GLORY ENSEMBLE - “Maybe You” Video Premier:
Press Release / “Maybe You”, the new video from ENZO & THE GLORY ENSEMBLE, can be seen above. The song is taken off the group’s full-length debut In The Name Of The Father, which was released via Underground Symphony Records on December 24, 2015.
ENZO & THE GLORY ENSEMBLE is the brainchild of Italian guitarist, vocalist & composer Enzo Donnarumma (MEMBERS OF GOD).
Hailed as "the most ambitious Christian metal project ever made”, In The Name Of The Father features guest appearances from Marty Friedman (ex-MEGADETH), Kobi Farhi (ORPHANED LAND), Ralph Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR), Mark Zonder (FATES WARNING & WARLORD), Gary Wehrkamp (SHADOW GALLERY), Brian Ashland (SHADOW GALLERY) and Nicholas Leptos (WARLORD).
In The Name Of The Father was mixed and mastered by Gary Wehrkamp at New Horizon Studios and will be made available as an exclusive digipak. Jahn Carlini contributed the cover art.
Musically, ENZO & THE GLORY ENSEMBLE should appeal to fans of LUCA TURILLI’S RHAPSODY, MYRATH & SYMPHONY X.
In The Name Of The Father track listing:
1. “In The Name Of The Father”
2. “Psalm 63”
3. “The Lord’s Prayer”
4. “Anima Christ”
5. “Glory Be To The Father”
6. “Benedictus”
7. “The Apostle’s Creed”
8. “Hail Holy Queen”
9. “Guardian Angel Prayer”
10. “Psalm 3”
11. “Hail Mary”
12. “Maybe You”
Enzo Donnarumma online: www.enzodonnarumma.com/en
STRYPER - Fallen Tour Dates Announced:
Courtesy of www.mauce.nl:
Legendary hard rockers STRYPER recently checked in with the following announcement:
“World tour begins in April of 2016! Working on hitting every place on earth. New album commencing early 2017. We’re like a freight train rollin’ down the tracks…”
The first string of US dates has been announced, with more to come over the next few weeks. Check them below.
With the October 16th release of their ninth studio album, Fallen, STRYPER continues to dominate the hard rock/heavy metal scene. The Frontiers Music SRL release sold over 10,000 copies during the first week of release, landing at #2 on the Top Hard Music Albums chart, #2 on the Top Contemporary Christian Albums chart, #2 on Billboard’s Top Christian/Gospel Albums, #5 on the Top Current Rock Albums chart, #20 on the Top Current Physical Albums chart, #26 on the Top Current Albums chart, #29 on the Top Current Digital Albums chart and #44 on the Billboard Top 200.
In addition, Fallen soared to #1 on the iTunes Top Metal Albums chart and #3 on the iTunes Top Rock Albums chart immediately upon release. STRYPERs latest studio effort consists of 12 songs showcasing the musicianship that has garnered them a huge fan base in the mainstream world and Christian market for three full decades.
“We are truly blessed to still be making music 32 years into our careers, music that relates and speaks to our fans worldwide,” says frontman and album producer, Michael Sweet. “We strive to outdo ourselves with each release and hopefully we’ve done that with “Fallen.” Here’s to 32 more years!”
Unlike many of their counterparts, STRYPER is comprised of all four original members with Michael Sweet on vocals and guitar, Oz Fox on guitar, Tim Gaines on bass and Robert Sweet on drums.
Upcoming Shows:
04/23/16: Las Vegas, NV - Cannery Casino w/SKID ROW
04/24/16: Hollywood, CA - Whiskey A Go Go
06/10/16: Malden, MA - Mixx 360
06/11/16: Poughkeepsie, NY - The Chance Theater
06/12/16: New York, NY - Stage 48
06/14/16: Cleveland, OH - Beachland Ballroom NEW
06/16/16: Pittsburgh, PA - Altar Bar
06/17/16: Hazard, KY - The Forum w/LYNCH MOB
06/18/16: Versaille, OH - BMI Speedway w/LYNCH MOB
06/30/16: Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom NEW
08/13/16: Laughlin, NV - Avi Casino w/Skid Row
09/23/16: St. Charles, IL - Arcada Theater NEW
10/30/16: Joliet, IL - Rock N’ Skull 2016
STRYPER tour updates: www.stryper.com/Tour/tour.html
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
NEWS BRIEFS
* BIOGENESIS new line up and album announcement: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxsgAUdWFmY
* ENERGEMA will be releasing on January 8, 2016 a new single, “Eternity”, off its upcoming debut album The Lion’s Forces.
* INNERSIEGE, ‘the Jam Hub” & new album update: www.youtube.com/watch?v=2baXRieSvVc
* New song from KDB3, “Lear Jet Gospel”: https://kdb3.bandcamp.com/track/lear-jet-gospel
Angelic Warlord Update Archives: HERE
