Welcome to Angelic Warlord- your Christian metal and hard rock resource! Launched in the spring of 2006 with the purpose of supporting Christians creating art within the metal and hard rock genres, Angelic Warlord features an abundance of reviews, links, discography pages, interviews and Christian metal news- all updated on a weekly basis. If you enjoy all types of metal and hard rock - melodic hard rock, straightforward hard rock, melodic metal, classic metal, power metal, progressive metal and all things in between – that, at the same time, is backed by a positive and life changing message, then you have found a new home in Angelic Warlord.
UPCOMING REVIEWS
• Wayne Johnson - North Of Nowhere
• LEVITICUS - The Strongest Power (Ektro re-issue)
• REINXEED - A New World
• STRYPER - No More Hell To Pay
LATEST UPDATES
• CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS - September 1, 2013
• FACEBOOK - September 1, 2013
• FEATURED REVIEWS - September 1, 2013
• RELEASE DATES - September 1, 2013
GIDEON’S ARMY - Warriors Of Love - NEW
Musically, Warriors Of Love finds Gideon’s Army doing away with the rhythm and blues of its past and delivering a heavy dose of melodic hard rock better suited for the radio friendly sounds of the time. I hesitate to invite direct comparison, but if you enjoy Idle Cure, Novella, Petra and early nineties Guardian then I can see the album appealing to your tastes. Read Full Review >>
HAVEN - Your Dying Day (Retroactive re-issue)
It’s tempting to dismiss Haven as another generic power metal band- another cookie-cutter-dime-a-dozen classic tenor front man wailing, nonsensical double bass driven and high fantasy lyrical themed act that have overpopulated the metal scene over the years. Tempting, that is until you listen to the groups 1990 R.E.X. full length debut Your Dying Day. Read Full Review >>
HERO - Afterlife
Some metal bands defy easy classification. The multifarious ability of Stockholm, Sweden’s Hero proves no exception. Read Full Review >>
STRYPER, “Revelation” lyric video released:
Press Release / Legendary rock band STRYPER has partnered with NewReleaseTuesday.com for the exclusive premiere of a new lyric video for the track "Revelation," from their upcoming album No More Hell To Pay. Starting at 12:00PM, August 28, 2013, the video will be available for viewing exclusively at www.newreleasetuesday.com
Produced by front man Michael Sweet, the all-new studio album features some of STRYPER's strongest and heaviest material to date. No More Hell To Pay will be available in North America on November 5th via Frontiers Records, and is now available for pre-order at Amazon in STANDARD CD and DELUXE DIGIPAK featuring exclusive video content. Within 24 hours of becoming available for pre-order at Amazon on August 22nd, No More Hell To Pay shot to #10 in the Rock Music category, and #20 in Music, thanks to word of mouth from STRYPER fans.
Official: www.stryper.com & www.frontiers.it
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stryper
TRUE STRENGTH, new Christian power metal band:
Press Release / We are pleased to announce TRUE STRENGTH, a brand-new Christian metal band from the United States! TRUE STRENGTH can be described as traditional U.S. power metal / NWOBHM in the vein of bands like IRON MAIDEN, SAINT, BLOODGOOD, LEVITICUS, QUEENSRYCHE and MEGDETH.
TRUE STRENGTH features the soaring vocals of Norm "Ski" Kiersznowski (DEATLY BLESSING, FAITH FACTOR) and the songwriting of Ryan "The Archangel" Darnell! TRUE STRENGTH will be releasing their independent 8-song debut album, The Cross Will Always Prevail, in the fall of 2013! The debut album will be a digital release available on CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody etc. All sales of the album will be donated to charity.
The Cross Will Always Prevail track-listing:
1. “Exorcism (Intro)”
2. “The Cross Will Always Prevail”
3. “Christian Battle Cry”
4. “Under the Scimitar”
5. “Starve the Fires of Moloch”
6. “Michael the Archangel”
7. “When We Meet at Armageddon”
8. “Key to the Abyss”
TRUE STRENGTH line-up:
Norm "Ski" Kiersznowski - Lead Vocals
Ryan "The Archangel" Darnell - Rhythm Guitar, Bass
Josh Cirbo - Lead Guitar
Chris Clark - Drums
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/True-Strength
ADRIANGALE, Suckerpunch! track-listing revealed:
ADRIANGALE, a powerhouse combination of vocalist Jamie Rowe and guitarist Vic Rivera, set to release new album on September 27, 2013. Rivera recently provided a detailed breakdown of each Suckerpunch! track:
“Suckerpunch!” - We’ve been away for a while, pursuing other endeavors and navigating the often slippery slope that is real life, but we’ve always been in close contact. John approached Jamie at the right time, and we all felt we were ready to reconvene and get this all started again. Thing is, we approached our return REAL quiet-like, agreeing not to go public with our impending comeback until all the pieces were in place...and so it went. This song encapsulates that feeling, that ideal - surprise! Jamie did a killer job with running with the majority of the lyrics on this one, once I sang to him the chorus I had already written. That’s what I love about working with him, he’s just so good ! Some fun dual solo work from Eddie and I here as well.
“The Black and Blue” - Fact: human nature isn’t always pretty. Too often friendship and loyalty are treated as cheap afterthoughts. Worst part is people who do so don’t realize the incredible and lasting damage done to others. This is about being strong, secure and accomplished, in spite of disingenuous people. Accordingly, picking yourself up, dusting yourself off and declaring you are determined to move forward is the gist of the lyrics here. This is dedicated to all those who need to rediscover themselves after such ordeals.
“Give Me A Sign” - It’s all over the place: accounts of politicians, teachers, assorted role models, even “friends” - talking out of both sides of their mouths, employing double standards, and doing a million other shady things at the expense of other people. So here is a nice, friendly little ode to those folks expecting blind faith while we get taken for a ride...
“What Will You Do” - A song about confronting a person so self-righteous about themselves or a particular situation and ideal that it is destroying their relationship with you. Posing the hypothetical to your adversary can’t guarantee results but every so often, they might pause for a moment to think.
“The World We Knew” - A bleak yet hopeful testimony to someone you love...when the world is falling down, when all noble deeds and righteous causes aren’t making a difference any longer, you’re there with them no matter what, and you want them to be there with you as well. Written for the ARFM fundraiser CD put together in 2009, this was one too good not to re-record and include on a proper release. Some great trading of solos between Eddie and I once again on this one.
“All About The Money’ - Some folks are singularly focused on the accumulation of wealth, or on making money off the backs of others. They discard all notion of friendship or decency and shoot themselves in the foot time and time again. It’s a miserable, self-perpetuating road to ruin that you can only step back and watch happen (if you care to) when such people eventually have nothing. This is another one where Jamie’s talent as an incredible songwriter himself allowed him to build on the chorus I presented to him. All bow down to Stratosphere...
“Believe” - We’ve all been there - with a friend, a lover, a family member - when it seems nothing you can do is going to salvage or repair your relationship, yet somehow there still exists deep-rooted traces of the good things that once existed between you, and hope once again promises to find its mark.
“Temporis Intermisso” - Latin for “a brief pause”, and very apropos for this instrumental interlude on the album...really let Eddie and myself stretch out a little on this one to show some chops. Well, going toe to toe with the King Kong guitarist that is Eddie Campbell is an exercise in futility, so I decided to play the more melodic foil to his pyrotechnics. This one’s for the guitar aficionados in our fan base for sure!
“When I Said You’d Be The One” - The last song written for this album and one I actually couldn’t wrap myself around for a bit - at least until I wrote the chorus. I let Jamie take command of the rest of the song’s lyrics and he did a bang-up job of capturing the message, another one saying “I never saw you capable of turning on me like you have but you did - oh well.” John Kivel INSTANTLY fell in love with this and declared it the teaser single for the new album. His instincts proved very sound - the fans ate it up!
“Could Have Been Me” - Ever give so much of yourself to someone that you just can’t stomach the fact that you shouldered the burden of such a negative soul-sucker in the first place? Yep - I thought so. On rare occasion the offending party MIGHT have a moment of clarity and try to get back into your good graces, but there’s nothing more satisfying than being able to say “sorry, too late!”
“YOU” - Jamie’s undying and intense love for his wife Heather inspired him to write some of the most beautiful and heartfelt lyrics you could ever hope for. I felt Jamie would best be able to come up with something really special for the music I wrote for this song and did he ever make a statement that will stand with our best ballads prior...I’d get a real kick out of it if this was used as someone’s wedding song one of these days!
ADRIANGALE Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Adriangale
Pre-order Suckerpunch! at: www.kivelrecords.com
NEWS BRIEFS
*Article discussing the top ten Christian hard rock/metal bands of the eighties: http://voices.yahoo.com/the-top-10-christian-hard-rock-metal-bands-the-1794909.html
*BENSON/GRIFFIN Evil Killer sample reel: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ey3daQj8mik
*BIOGENESIS at work on new album (Facebook - August 26, 2013): “Biogenesis may be entering the studio to begin recording the bands third album "tentatively" called Devolved very soon depending on our meeting with the potential producer this weekend. If all goes well this may be our best sounding album to date. Stay tuned as we embark upon a new chapter.”
*New BRIDE song “All The Kids” (off the groups upcoming album Incorruptible): www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpUr_QZuFjQ
*The melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS will release their third album Exodus later this fall through Ulterium Records. Exodus is an epic concept album that will feature different vocalists on each track.
Already announced vocalists are Matt Smith (THEOCRACY), Michael Vescera (OBSESSION, ANIMETAL USA, ex Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum). To that list we're now proud to add Lance King (ex.PYRAMAZE, BALANCE OF POWER) and Daísa Munhoz (VANDROYA, SOULSPELL).
More guests will be announced soon, as well as release dates, artwork etc
Official: www.signum-regis.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/signum.regis
*VISUAL CLIFF update (Facebook - August 28, 2013): “The 2013 Out Of The Archives album is DONE!!! Soon to be available on iTunes and all the other usual non-thieving like services. Or buy the digital album direct from us at www.visualcliff.net and you will also get the physical copy when released in December”.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
LEVITICUS: The Strongest Power re-issued:
Available on Ektro Records as of August 21, 2013
Ektro Records Press Release / Ektro Records once again have expanded its arsenal with a reissue of Christian metal classic The Strongest Power from LEVITICUS. Yes, you read correctly- Christian metal. A cult classic The Strongest Power most definitely is, released in 1985 to widespread acclaim in the international heavy metal press, with even Kerrang! calling it "one of the best records of the year."
And yet, as time went on and the "white metal" tag became more a curse than blessing, not to mention the band breaking up in 1990, the LEVITICUS legend was banished to the back-pages of obscurity. That the Swedes' lyricism unabashedly espoused their Christian beliefs doesn't detract from the timeless heavy metal song craft across The Strongest Power: Spanning the gritty, working-man's American metal of VIRGIN STEELE to the sometimes-moody/sometimes-shimmering melodicism of HEAVY PETTIN’, with even bouts of up-tempo TOKYO BLADE style action, this crucial LEVITICUS document encapsulates everything boisterous and brilliant about '80s metal.
With a clutch of immediately memorable, energetic-at-any-tempo tracks as its foundation, the spiritual themes of The Strongest Power can be extrapolated into traditional heavy metal themes - individuality, freedom, power, glory, rocking, running in the night - thereby making the record a true "diamond in the rough" which generations of metallers can now enjoy as they please. On your knees and praise The Strongest Power!
Ordering information: http://ektrorecords.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=3387
The Strongest Power track-listing:
1. "The Winner"
2. "Deborah And Barak"
3. "On The Rock"
4. "King Of Kings"
5. "Stay With Us"
6. "I Got Power"
7. "Look Around"
8. "I Love You"
9. "A New Day"
10. "Light For The World"
LEVITICUS line-up:
Bjorn Stigsson - Guitars, Synthesizers, Bass Pedal & Organ
Hakan Andersson - Lead Vocals, Bass, Bass Pedal & Synthesizers
Kjell Andersson - Drums & Percussions
Official: www.leviticus.nu
New rock hymns album from P.K. Mitchell, All Hail The Power II: Rock Hymns Revisited:
Press Release / Twenty years ago P.K Mitchell with the help of his friends released the acclaimed All Hail the Power: The Rock Hymns Project album consisting of 10 timeless church hymns done in a modern rock format to much celebration.
Now he's back for another go around!
Introducing the new rock hymns album from P.K. Mitchell, All Hail the Power II: Rock Hymns Revisited.
All Hail The Power II track-listing:
1. “Raise His Praise”
2. “Redemption Ground”
3. “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
4. “Man of Sorrows”
5. “We've a Story to Tell the Nations”
6. “I Gave My Life for Thee”
7. “The Wideness (of Gods Mercy)”
8. “The Old Rugged Cross”
9. “All Hail the Power”
10. “God of Mercy, God of Grace”
11. “Abide With Me”
12. “What if it Were Today?”
Pre-order your physical CD copy of the new All Hail the Power II: Rock Hymns Revisited: www.facebook.com/pages/PK-Mitchell-Official
Expected shipping date between 10/15/13 and 10/30/13.
Audio samples available for new STRYPER album, No More Hell To Pay:
Press Release / Legendary rock band STRYPER reveals audio samples for three tracks, "Revelation," "Saved By Love" and "Marching Into Battle”, from their forthcoming studio album, No More Hell To Pay. No More Hell To Pay is set for a November 5th release in North America and will be available in two formats - standard CD and deluxe digipak featuring exclusive video content. Produced by front man/guitarist/songwriter Michael Sweet, the set features some of STRYPER’s strongest and heaviest material ever.
STRYPER is one of the top Christian rock bands of all time. Comprised of the original line-up of Michael Sweet (lead vocals/guitar), Tim Gaines (bass), Robert Sweet (drums) and Oz Fox (guitar), Stryper has been going strong since 1984, and is responsible for such '80s metal classic albums as Soldiers Under Command, To Hell With The Devil, In God We Trust and such MTV hit singles/videos as "Calling on You," "Free" and "Honestly." After a sabbatical for much of the 1990's, STRYPER returned strong in the early 21st century. To date, the band has sold upwards of 10 million records worldwide and is a Dove Award-winner and GRAMMY nominee. STRYPER is the first band to have two songs in MTV's Top 10 simultaneously.
No More Hell To Pay track-listing:
1. “Revelation”
2. “No More Hell To Pay”
3. “Saved By Love”
4. “Jesus Is Just Alright”
5. “The One”
6. “Legacy”
7. “Marching Into Battle”
8. “Te Amo”
9. “Sticks & Stones”
10. “Water Into Wine”
11. “Sympathy”
12. “Renewed”
Official: www.stryper.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stryper
NEWS BRIEFS
*Glamtron, the new album from Finland’s DESYRE, is set for release on October 10, 2013. The group conducted a recent online interview with Untombed WebZine: untombed.com/interview-desyre
*Song titles for the upcoming X-SINNER album “Going Out With A Bang” include “Satisfaction Guaranteed”, “C'mon, C'mon”, “Goin Out With A Bang”, “Dopamine High”, “Runnin Out Of Time”, “Lightning Strikes Twice”, “Twice The Son Of Hell” and “Finish Line”.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BENSON/GRIFFIN Evil Killer tour dates:
October 25th - Malta Doom Festival
October 26th - Sin City Swansea, England
October 27th- Birmingham, England, The Asylum 2
October 28th - Black Heart London, England
October 29th - Fibbers, Dublin, Ireland
October 30th - Voodoo, Belfast Ireland
November 2nd - Sluessin 7, Stockholm, Sweden
Evil Killer is the upcoming album to feature vocalist David Benson and vocalist Victor Griffin. The two will be joined by bassist Andersson Winberg and drummer Tomas Eriksson. Look for Evil Killer to be released on October 8, 2013.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/BensonGriffin
STRYPER, Second Coming Double LP:
Released in the UK, a limited number of vinyl copies are available at the www.stryper.com online store:
Side A
1. “Loud N' Clear”
2. “Loving You”
3. “Soldiers Under Command”
4. “Makes Me Wanna Sing”
Side B
5. “First Love”
6. “The Rock That Makes Me Roll”
7. “Reach Out”
8. “Surrender”
Side C
9. “To Hell With The Devil”
10. “Calling On You”
11. “Free”
12. “The Way”
Side D
13. “Sing Along Song”
14. “More Than A Man”
15. “Bleeding From Inside Out”
16. “Blackened”
• A double album set
• 100% 180-gram vinyl
• Yellow vinyl
• Autographed by all four original band members
• Limited number available
Ordering information: http://stryper.portmerch.com/stores/product.php?productid=18826
NEWS BRIEFS
*ADRIANGALE delivered the final mix of its new album, Suckerpunch!, to Kivel Records for review. Mastering and press release are next. Look for Suckerpunch! to be released at MelodicRockFest 3 on September 27, 2013.
*BLOODGOOD is planning for a Fall of 2013 release of its upcoming album Dangerously Close.
*Secret Sins is the title to the next CRUCIBLE DIVINE album. You can view the tentative album artwork at the groups Facebook page: www.facebook.com/crucible.divine?fref=ts
FEATURED REVIEWS
KING JAMES - Maximus
Maximus can best be described as a mish-mash of old and new songs with several shorter instrumentals added to fill things out. One cannot help but get the feeling, as a result, that the group could have put a bit more time, thought and effort into the project. Read Full Review >>
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE - 4-All: The Best of LNJ Volume 2
4-All: The Best of LNJ Volume 2 adds up to a worthwhile compilation of the better material from the LNJ “all-star project” period. You will encounter not just a fine roster of songs and guest appearances but corresponding styles as well (again, ranging from AOR to melodic rock to hard rock to metal to acoustic). Read Full Review >>
MISSION OF ONE - Hostile To The Gospel
A delectable union of hard rock heaviness and metal riffs with the hooks and melodies to match. If into any of the already noted artists - Rez Band, Bride, X-Sinner, GX Project, Whitecross and Randy Rose - then HTTG comes with a solid recommendation. Read Full Review >>
PASTOR BRAD - Get Real Rocked Up
Get Real Rocked Up, a 14 song compilation made up of material off the two debut demo releases (seven songs from each), also came out in 2011. The same rules from Trinity apply here: Eighties based melodic metal and hard rock musical direction and the artist handling all musicianship, vocal, songwriting and production duties. Read Full Review >>
PYLON - The Harrowing Of Hell
Give Pylon its due: The Switzerland based traditional doom metal act might be sticking to a tried and true method, but it also knows not to fix something that isn’t broken. The same applies to The Harrowing Of Hell, the groups Roxx Records fifth full length album from 2013, with its immediately recognizable heavy set riffing, dark and down tuned low-end heaviness and forlorn vocal approach. Read Full Review >>
SACRED WARRIOR - Waiting In Darkness
So how does Waiting In Darkness rate as a comeback album following a near 25 year hiatus? In order to gain insight one must first take a look at the sports world, where sometimes comebacks work (Michael Jordan circa 1996-1998) but often they do not (can you say Brett Favre?). Read Full Review >>
SONS OF DEITY - Who Do You Say That I Am?
That being said, it was also Theocracy front man Matt Smith who suggested (in an online interview) that "When you're dealing with the most powerful and serious subject matter in existence, you can't back it up with weak music- it just doesn't work." So how does Sons Of Deity measure up in this capacity? Read Full Review >>
Various Artists - Metal For Jesus
Ministry tool or career retrospective? Boiled down to its essence, that is the question facing metal and hard rock enthusiasts as it pertains to the summer of 2013 Doolittle Records various artists release Metal For Jesus. Read Full Review >>
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
STRYPER, No More Hell To Pay cover artwork unveiled:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Press Release / Frontiers Records will release No More Hell To Pay, the new album from Christian rockers STRYPER, on November 5 in North America. The effort will be made available in two formats - standard CD and deluxe digipak featuring exclusive video content. Produced by front man/guitarist Michael Sweet himself, the set features some of STRYPER's strongest and heaviest material ever.
Commented Sweet, “No More Hell To Pay marks our 30-year anniversary and what a journey it has been! It's our eleventh studio release since our first album in 1984 (The Yellow & The Black Attack) and it's quite possibly our best record to date. Why? It's everything you might expect from a STRYPER record — high-octane vocals, layered vocal harmonies, guitar solos galore, driving drums and bass and an energy that hasn't been achieved since our glory days. The message is equally as powerful as it offers hope and inspiration to anyone listening. If you're a STRYPER fan, it'll make you proud to be one. If you're not, listen with caution as you may actually become one.
"We've been waving the striped flag for 30 years and we're proud to say that it's an honor to still be making music with you and for you. The best is yet to come and it's coming November 5th!"
No More Hell To Pay includes STRYPER's cover version of "Jesus Is Just Alright", a gospel song written by Arthur Reid Reynolds. STRYPER guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet said, "It rivals our cover of EARTH, WIND & FIRE's “Shining Star” riffs!"
"Jesus Is Just Alright" was first recorded by Reynolds' own group, THE ART REYNOLDS SINGERS, on their 1966 album, "Tellin' It Like It Is". It was later covered by THE BYRDS and THE DOOBIE BROTHERS.
No More Hell To Pay track-listing:
1. “Revelation”
2. “No More Hell To Pay”
3. “Saved By Love”
4. “Jesus Is Just Alright”
5. “The One”
6. “Legacy”
7. “Marching Into Battle”
8. “Te Amo”
9. “Sticks & Stones”
10. “Water Into Wine”
11. “Sympathy”
12. “Renewed”
STRYPER played a brand new song, "Marching Into Battle", during their July 14 concert at The Chance in Poughkeepsie, New York.
STRYPER will film two new videos and an EPK (Electronic Press Kit) in August in support of "No More Hell To Pay". The band's last three videos were shot and released in 1990 and 1991 when the band was promoting its "Against The Law" LP.
Regarding the musical direction of STRYPER's new material, Michael Sweet told Screamer Magazine: "The song “God”, which is on The Covering; if you took that song along with “Bleeding From Inside Out” and “Blackened” (from Second Coming), and you put it on the same album, that's a pretty good indication of where we are going and where we are at right now. But at the same time this album is all its own."
He added: "Every song has a hooky guitar riff. Everything is in minor keys, so it's a little darker sounding and a little tougher. It's definitely our heaviest record and I think people will be pleasantly surprised.
"The people who do like the poppier side of STRYPER, like “Calling On You” and “Holding On”, this record isn't going to really give them that. There are a lot of vocal hooks and melodies going on, but it's a little darker, and a little edgier. To reference, there is less songs like “Calling On You” and more songs like “To Hell With The Devil”. It's more in that vein than the poppier vein."
Official: www.stryper.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stryper
“Ghost”, acoustic demo from Matt Smith:
THEOCRACY front man offers his thoughts:
“I love sad story songs and romantic tragedies in music, and I decided to demo some acoustic stuff I wrote in that vein. Since it's a bit different from what I normally do in Theocracy, I thought maybe someone out there would find it interesting and want to check it out, so I made a little video for one of the demos. Thanks for listening, and I hope you enjoy!”
NOTE: This is fantastic! Let's hope that “Ghost” turns into an acoustic side project from the artist.
Official: www.theocracymusic.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/theocracyband
NEWS BRIEFS
*New AMASEFFER song, “Pillar Of Fire”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1It2AeHV6WQ
“Pillar Of Fire” will be included as part of the groups upcoming album When Lions Leave Their Den (Exodus Part II).
*”Free”, sample track from the upcoming BRIDE album Incorruptible: www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1CD1UqGsLM
*Ian Keith Hafner video blog update (in regards to JAGUAR BLAZE): www.youtube.com/watch?v=08JfAx0Lx2E&
*Kerry Livgren is at work on re-releases of the first two PROTO-KAW albums, Before Became After & The Wait Of Glory.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BLOODGOOD, new album update:
Legendary heavy metal band BLOODGOOD is back in the studio, busy writing and rehearsing brand new music for their much anticipated first new studio album in 22 years. The Kickstarter goal of $15.000 for the release of the band’s new studio album has been reached, still 3 days to go until the end of the Kickstarter campaign.
The title for the new BLOODGOOD album has been revealed earlier this week Dangerously Close.
The band reported the following: “If we reach our new stretch goal of $20,000,we will be able to hire David Zaffiro (seven-time Dove Award recipient and Grammy nominee) and founding Bloodgood guitarist, to master the new record! In addition, the stretch goal enables us to acquire more studio time ensuring more time for mixes, better overall production and higher quality sound making it the best sounding record we have ever done!
In addition, every single Kickstarter supporter who has pledged $5 or more will receive a digital copy of Metal Missionaries 25th Anniversary Edition. If you have already pledged over $5 and we hit our new stretch goal, then you will get our Metal Missionaries digital download, too! So please help us by giving a shout out to your Facebook, Twitter and blog sites about our Kickstarter Campaign to help push us over the mark!”
A recent Facebook update (July 25, 2013) from the group offers further insight: “All but the last few bits of recording are now completed for Bloodgood‘s new album! We have 13 potential songs for the new release. The final four cuts are: ”Child on Earth”, “I Can Hold On”, “Run Away” and ”The Word”. Now it’s time to turn our attention to mixing, mastering and the art work.”
Official: www.bloodgoodband.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/bloodgoodband
Further information: www.kickstarter.com/projects/557497860/bloodgoods-1st-studio-album-in-22-years
NEWS BRIEFS
*The debut Benson/Griffin album, Evil Killer, is scheduled for release on October 8, 2013. The group is promising an “epic slab of analog (classic) doom”.
*SARDIS, new album update (Christian Hard Music - August 4, 2013): “So here's the deal with the album, I'll start with a brief history. We started tracking this album in either 08 or 09; I can't remember but I know this much, we tracked drums first when our drummer was 15 and he is now 20 and married! Since we began tracking, the process has been practically a comedy of errors and certainly a lesson in when and when not to start promoting a product. The funny thing is that I initially put this band together specifically to record this album. I never would have dreamed it would take this long. That said, I've heard the album several times now and I really think it will be worth the wait for those of you who have been with us for a while.
Anyway, I am pleased to say that last month Sardis approved of the final album master and it is ready to go into production. In the very near future (probably this coming week) I will be communicating with several inde labels to see if any of them want to pick it up. If not there will still be a physical release but we will have to fund it ourselves meaning it might take a little longer. Regardless of that situation my goal is for the album to be released before 2014”.
The SARDIS song “Cries Of The Dead” is available for free download at: www.reverbnation.com/sardisband
*New SUPERNAL ENDGAME album status (Facebook - July 26, 2013): “The mixing process has been ramped up lately. We have set a target date to have the project mastered by Aug.8th. We will likely not meet this date, but this target is expediting the process. John is spending a ton of time working out meticulous details, making sure that every part can be heard and that no instruments are fighting for the same frequencies. While mixing, we sometimes determine that some parts need to be re-recorded or added.
In the past week, Rob has added some vocals and djembe. His daughter, Anna, added some incredible cello parts, John Crafton has added some classical and electric guitar parts and Tom just finished laying down some new bass guitar. I (John E.) have recorded the occasional guitar and keyboard part here and there and am trying to make these mixes something that I will be happy with years from now. The other band members and several trusted studio rats have been giving their thumbs up. We are so excited. A release date will likely be in the Fall as we shop the final mixes around or decide to release this independently. We appreciate your patience as we draw near the finish line.”
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
New REINXEED album, A New World:
Release date September 5, 2013:
Press Release / The symphonic power metal explosion continues! Tommy ReinXeed, vocalist, guitarist and producer, is back with the sixth REINXEED studio album entitled A New World.
REINXEED is Tommy ReinXeed’s musical creation and vision. The band was formed in 2002 and has worked very hard since then to develop what it refers to as its own unique style of “adventure power metal”.
In late 2007 Christian Liljegren, former vocalist of NARNIA and owner of Liljegren Records/Doolittle Group, received a demo from Tommy ReinXeed. He was so impressed with what he heard that he immediately signed REIXNEED to his label.
Highly praised label King Records in Japan licensed REINXEED and the release of their debut album The Light in 2008 and have since then also received good success with the groups other releases, Higher (2009), Majestic (2010), 1912 (2011) and Welcome To The Theater (2012).
The lyrical direction to A New World, discussing how our world is changing, works perfectly with REINXEED’s bombastic symphonic power metal.
The band filmed a new promotion video for the song “Guitar Hero”, which shows a heavier side to REINXEED. The video can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DADu-2Uiajs
Of note is the musical inspiration for REINXEED, including Gary Moore ANGRA, STRATOVARIOUS, Robby Valentine, SYMPHONY X and HELLOWEEN (Keeper Of The Seven Keys 1 & 2 era).
Along with REINXEED, Tommy ReinXeed is also involved in Swedish Hitz Goes Metal and GOLDEN RESURRECTION. He has received positive feedback worldwide as a result of his involvement with both projects.
A New World track-listing:
1. “Distant Horizon”
2. “Into The Darkness”
3. “The Journey Home”
4.”The Star”
5. “Final Destination”
6. Northern Allstars”
7. “Chalice Of Time”
8. “Curse And Damnation”
9. “Guitar Hero”
10. “A New World”
REINXEED line-up:
Tommy ReinXeed – Lead vocals, Guitars, Keyboards & Orchestration
Alex Oriz - Lead guitars & Backing Vocals
Chris David - Bass
Alfred Fridhagen - Drums
Official: www.reinxeed.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReinXeed
THEOCRACY, re-mixed debut album teaser posted online:
Press Release / The self-titled debut album from the Athens, Georgia based melodic metal band THEOCRACY will be re-released through Ulterium Records during the fall of 2013. THEOCRACY drummer Shawn Benson recorded the drums for the re-release, vocalist Matt Smith handled the re-mix and Mika Jussila (STRATOVARIUS, NIGHTWISH, EDGUY) mastering.
The THEOCRACY debut album, originally released through MetalAges Records in 2003, is currently a rare and hard to find collectors item.
The Angelic Warlord review (95%) of Theocracy it described as “epic melodic power metal with progressive tendencies” (that is also) “characterized by huge catchy choruses and infectious melodies backed by anointed lyrics and a versatile musicianship”.
In an interview with Angelic Warlord, Matt Smith offers his thoughts behind the meaning to the bands name: “A theocracy is a government ruled directly by God, and for us it means “Theocracy within,” as explained in the title track to the first album. In other words, trying to live by God’s principles instead of just living selfishly”.
Official: www.theocracymusic.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/theocracyband
Ulterium Records: www.ulterium-records.com
NEWS BRIEFS
*On Faith’s Edge interview with WARLORD vocalist Rick Anderson: http://onfaithsedge.com/episode-005-warlords-rick-anderson-interview-does-jesus-claim-to-be-god
*TEMPLE OF BLOOD update from vocalist Jim Mullis (Christian Metal Realm - July 24, 2013): “First of all, I want to thank everyone for being so patient and supportive of us over the years. I am singing three songs with my good friends in the power metal band Cauldron Born for their upcoming album. I have already recorded one song for them and will be tracking the next one soon.
Once I am done recording all my vocals for Cauldron Born, I will resume recording rhythm guitars for TOB. Drums are all done and one song has its rhythms all done, but there are still 8 more to go. Then we'll start laying down vocals and getting all the contributions from the other guys (Kelly Conlon - bass (ex-Death, ex-Monstrosity), Andre' Corbin (ex-Helstar), and another incredible lead guitarist who I am not ready to announce yet.”
*”Two Wonders”, new song from WORLDVIEW: www.reverbnation.com/worldviewmetal/song/18112586-two-wonders?1336410755
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
HERO release third album, Afterlife:
Press Release / Vocalist & guitarist Michael Hero, founder of HERO, was raised in the cold northern part of Sweden. He started playing guitar when he was just 9 years old, rocking out to classic rockers like KISS and JUDAS PRIEST. Michael now runs a real-life "School Of Rock" project in Stockholm, working with youth and coaching many bands. In 2006, the band self-released an album called Bless This Nation that featured brothers Torbjörn and Tomas Weinesjö (from the legendary Veni Domine).
Their sophomore release, Immortal, instantly immerses the listener in an aura of majesty - heavy groove-ridden guitars, thundering bass, and bombastic drums. But it is Michael's melodic baritone vocals that bring it all together with drama-filled, memorable, strong melodies. Don't expect to find HERO trying to be the loudest, play the fastest, or sing the highest, but definitely expect Immortal to successfully grab the listener and intelligently journey through tragedy and triumph / despair & hope.
Afterlife is the band's third release that embraces what HERO does best by offering a strong classic rock & metal feel (STRYPER, KISS) combined with the dark, modern vibe of bands like VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE, HIM, LACUNA COIL and mid-period Deliverance! Goth-tinged metal filled with majesty and melody has finally found a worthy HERO!
Afterlife track-listing:
1. “Now Tears Are Falling”
2. “My Heart Is Bleeding”
3. “Afterlife”
4. “Left Behind”
5. “Destination Graceland”
6. “Beautiful”
7. “The Dark”
8. “My Heroic”
9. “When We Die”
10. “When Afterlife Begins”
HERO line-up:
Michael Hero - Lead Vocals & Guitars
Bjorn Sundstrom - Guitars
Henrik Deleskog - Bass
Daniel Mouton - Drums & Percussion
Official: http://herosweden.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/HERO/196654037145
THEOCRACY: European tour announced:
Press Release / The Athens, Georgia-based melodic metal band THEOCRACY will return to Europe for a tour this fall. See a list of confirmed shows below. More shows will be announced soon.
Confirmed dates:
November 2nd: Brainstorm Festival - Apeldoorn, Netherlands
November 9th: Blast of Eternity - Neckarsulm, Germany
November 11th: Collosseum - Kosice, Slovakia
November 12th: T.B.A. - Brno, Czech Republic
November 13th: Club Hoodoo - Prague, Czech Republic
November 15th: Maata Näkyvissä - Turku, Finland
November 16th: Rock Without Limits - Stuttgart, Germany
In you're interested in booking THEOCRACY for a show on this tour then please contact Ulterium Records at: info@ulterium-records.com
The latest THEOCRACY album As The World Bleeds was released in Europe on November 25th 2011 through Ulterium Records, in North America on November 21st 2011 through Nightmare Records and in Japan on April 25th 2012 through King Records.
As The World Bleeds debuted at #40 in the Billboard Heatseekers Chart during the first week of release.
Check out the music video for the track "Hide In The Fairytale" at YouTube: http://youtu.be/7PFGnL0FJes
Official: www.theocracymusic.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/theocracyband
Ulterium Records: www.ulterium-records.com
NEWS BRIEFS
*The new BRIDE album, Incorruptible, is scheduled for release in September.
*Walk On Water, a new song off the upcoming MISSION OF ONE album Hostile To The Gospel, can be streamed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uasM6UAw7QM
*New SAINT video, “We Will Fight”. The video, which features new vocalist Brian Miller, starts after one minute: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBcNAW4yXmc
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
Metal For Jesus compilation set for release:
Press Release / The Metal For Jesus album is a 17 track compilation and a good introduction to Christian metal from Sweden featuring the following bands: NARNIA, DIVINEFIRE, GOLDEN RESURRECTION, AUDIOVISION & MODEST ATTRACTION. The man behind this album vision and concept to release the Metal For Jesus album is Johannes Jonsson, who has written the liner notes in the booklet and also chosen each and every song. Johannes runs the Jesus Metal Community in Sweden and is a driving force for Christian Metal in Scandinavia.
NARNIA
Melodic metal band that has released 6 studio album, 1 live album and 1 live DVD with good success and topped metal charts in magazines. The band has toured with Ronnie James Dio, STRATOVARIUS and SONATA ARCTICA to name a few. One of the most loved Christian metal bands around.
AUDIOVISION
This was from the beginning a solo project of vocalist Christian Liljegren, who invited lots of guests on the first album The Calling featuring members from KISS, WHITESNAKE, EUROPE and YNGWIE MALMSTEEN’S RISING FORCE. In 2009 AUDIOVISION became a touring band and released their second album, Focus, which received good feedback. AUDIOVISION toured with STRYPER in Sweden and Germany 2010.
DIVINEFIRE
A group creating a metal style in which they blended melodic metal with extreme metal elements to form a unique combination. The band has released 5 studio albums and topped metal charts in several metal magazines. They also did a successful tour in Japan. Metal fans around the world love their fast symphonic metal with harder elements.
GOLDEN RESURRECTION
Neoclassical power metal band formed by vocalist Christian Liljegren (NARNIA) and guitarist Tommy ReinXeed. GOLDEN RESURRECTION have released 3 studio albums and their latest, One Voice For The Kingdom, received great feedback in metal media and has been touring in Sweden, Norway, Finland & Germany.
MODEST ATTRACTION
MODEST ATTRACTIONA existed between 1991-1997 and played 70´s influenced hard rock like DEEP PURPLE, RAINBOW, SWEET & URIAH HEEP. The group has performed with URIAH HEEP & Glenn Hughes and has done several tours of Europe. MODEST ATTRACTION, which plans a reunion show on October 26, 2013, released 2 studio albums and one mini album.
Enjoy the metal power with a heavenly message!
Metal For Jesus track-listing:
1. Narnia – “People of the Blood Red Cross”
2. Narnia – “Living Water”
3. Narnia – “Long Live The King”
4. Audiovision – “The Way”
5. Audiovision – “We Will Go”
6. Divinefire – “Divinefire”
7. Divinefire – “Live My Life For You”
8. Golden Resurrection – “Proud To Wear The Holy Cross”
9. Modest Attraction – “Down On My Knees”
10. Golden Resurrection – “The Final Day”
11. Golden Resurrection – “God’s Mercy”
12. Divinefire – “Never Surrender”
13. Golden Resurrection – “Flaming Youth”
14. Golden Resurrection – “Golden Resurrection”
15. Divinefire – “Open Your Eyes”
16. Divinefire – “Bright Morning Star”
17. Divinefire – “The Way To Eternity”
All tracks have been re-mastered.
Please note that Metal For Jesus is a collaboration between Jonsson and Christian Liljegren, lead vocalist for the above referenced bands. Look the album, already pre-released on Sweden Rock on the Swedish National Day of June 6, to be heavily promoted in the secular music world. Metal For Jesus is scheduled for official release on Doolittle Records on August 30, 2013.
Jonsson offers his thoughts in regards to Metal For Jesus: “Lots of prayer has gone into this album to make sure that the right tracks were chosen and right comments written so that it should be everything God wanted it to be. We want Jesus to be glorified and we dedicate this album to Him! Focus on the album is totally on God and what Christian faith is all about. Booklet contains salvation prayer and comments by me where I explain the lyrics and talk about God's mercy, why Jesus is the only way to God, second coming of Jesus, prayer and how to get to know Jesus and overall what true Christian faith is all about.
“To sum it up: The Metal For Jesus album is a great ministry tool and a perfect gift to your unsaved friend to let him/her know about Christ and introduce them to quality Christian Metal.”
Metal For Jesus is currently available for order from Johannes Jonsson for $15 + $5 shipping all around the world. Send payment via PayPal to: johannes@metalforjesus.org
If you live in Sweden you can order the album from: www.metalcommunity.se
The Metal For Jesus album is also strongly connected to The Metal Bible and features info about it and how to get it: www.themetalbible.com
If you want to support this album any gift would also be really appreciated so we can spread it to as many as possible all around the world. You can send donations via Paypal to: support@metalforjesus.org
NEWS BRIEFS
*New online interview with Michael Sweet (STRYPER): HERE
*VENI DOMINE update (Facebook - July 9, 2013): “On a hot Swedish summer day we are pleased to move on closer to mastering the coming (new album). We have no news yet on a release date, but we should know in (the near future). All wheels are spinning now as we’re discussing album title, cover artwork, etc.”
*Latest from WORLDVIEW (Facebook – July 8, 2013): “Worldview has been rehearsing and recording. The band and the tracks are coming along nicely. “The Last Cry” is a fairly strong track, but I believe “Two Wonders” is quite possibly one of the strongest tracks on the record. The title track, “The Chosen Few”, is an epic sounding ballad type of song as well as “Why?” (Co-writen with Alan Agguire from Sacred Few) which is a mainstream potential type tune. There is some very "metal" type material with a modern edge on this record. The chainsaw-blistering guitar tones along with Rey's heavenly and powerful voice, it is a great blend.”
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
BLOODGOOD, first studio album in 22 years:
BLOODGOOD is back in the studio with 13 brand new songs waiting to be tracked, mixed & mastered. The band is ready to rock!
The music & mission of BLOODGOOD has been a vital stepping stone & a driving force in the maturing process of Christian Metal since their 1986 self-titled debut release. Their platinum-selling sophomore record Detonation strengthened the band’s signature style of theatrics, power & emotion - staples that would solidify their place in rock music history.
Spanning from 1986-2012, BLOODGOOD's music has been released in various formats all over the world. Classic albums include: Rock In A Hard Place, Out Of The Darkness, Alive in America, & Shakin' the World. Since BLOODGOOD's last studio album, All Stand Together in 1991, various live performances have been released including To Germany With Love (1993), Live In Norway (DVD, 2007) as well as various compilations & re-masters of their discography.
Oz Fox (STRYPER) joined the BLOODGOOD lineup in 2007 as a full-fledged band member & songwriting collaborator along side staple songwriters Michael Bloodgood, Les Carlsen, & Paul Jackson. In 2010, BLOODGOOD was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame for their important contributions to the music industry thus far.
Also in the works is a full-length documentary, In the Trenches of Rock and Roll coming in 2014 recounting the dramatic story of BLOODGOOD. FYI: Although this project is sanctioned by BLOODGOOD - it is being independently financed & produced by an indie film company. For updates on the documentary, "like" the film's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/rockdocumentary
What has the band been up to since their last record? Raising their families!
The kids are grown-up & now BLOODGOOD is ready to make another studio record with 13 brand new songs - but they need your support to ensure it becomes a reality! The new lineup has been writing together for several years & the results are mind-blowing! The band has already begun pre-production on a catalog of new material in anticipation of raising the necessary funding to make this project come to fruition. That's where you come in! If you want to hear new music on a new album from these seasoned musicians & see their music mission continue, show them some love!
If you are unfamiliar with Kickstarter, this is an all or nothing effort folks. Here is how it works: You pledge an amount of money (in exchange for rewards like a copy of the record) to help BLOODGOOD reach their financial goal to make the new album. Your credit card is not charged unless the project is fully funded by the closing date. So, if BLOODGOOD receives $14,999.99 of their $15k goal - nothing happens. You keep your money & BLOODGOOD doesn't make an album. Sad face.
However, if BLOODGOOD hits or exceeds their Kickstarter goal, your credit card is charged by Amazon & the band immediately begins the process of making a new album. We'll then keep you updated on the progress & begin filling whatever "rewards" you should receive based on your pledge. If you feel the urge to give more than your initial pledge, you are free to do so as long as it is while the Kickstarter fundraising period is still live. If applicable, your "rewards" will automatically be upgraded to the level of your new pledge.
Further reading: www.kickstarter.com/projects/557497860/bloodgoods-1st-studio-album-in-22-years
Official: www.bloodgoodband.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/bloodgoodban
NEWS BRIEFS
*STAIRWAY new album update (Facebook - 05/24/13): “Recording on the new album is coming along - slowly but surely – we say slowly but surely for a particular reason; Andy has a chronic shoulder problem which he’s suffering with, he was hoping it was just a cramp and has been working through it aided by pain killers, but it seems to be something more; some days he can't lift his arms above his shoulders and finds it difficult to do the simplest of things at times; he is under the doctor but nothing conclusive has been suggested as to what the problem is.
“We’ve fitted in recording when he has good days and in not too much pain, and shall continue this way when he feels up to it. Hopefully, and God willing everything will be sorted out and he will be fit, pain free and back to his old self.
“We ask that you keep him and the band in your thoughts and prayers.”
*SUPERNAL ENDGAME remains at work on its new album, Touch The Sky: Volume II (Facebook - 06/20/13) “We've been mixing the longest epic on the forthcoming Supernal Endgame release and are so excited about this tune! This is the best piece of music I've (John) ever written with movements that all relate to each other (instead of just parts just crammed together like so many "epics"). Moments of sheer power - heavy and orchestral (thanks to Rob Perez's treatment of the drums), and calmer sections collide with some folky bits thrown in... all with melodic hooks and less than conventional harmonization. We can't wait to unleash this stuff!”
*European tour announced from THEOCRACY (Facebook - 06/20/13): “We'll head back to Europe in November for a two week tour, and we're very excited about it! Shows are confirmed for Germany, Netherlands and Finland, and some more shows will be announced soon in other countries. We're currently looking for promoters/booking agents in Belgium, France, Italy and Switzerland. If you want to book Theocracy or if you know someone who wants to please contact our label at info@ulterium-records.com about it. Thanks for your support!”
Look for the re-issue of the self-titled THEOCRACY debut later this year.
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
New albums from VISUAL CLIFF, Out Of The Archives & Between Two Kingdoms:
Press Release / Out Of The Archives and Between Two Kingdoms, the final two full length albums from VISUAL CLIFF, will be released together later this year. Those that pre-buy Out Of The Archives will be sent the final mastered tunes (mp3's) to download as they are completed along with 2 videos. We are now sending 6 completed tunes. No sneak peak mixes will be posted for Between Two Kingdoms.
Between Two Kingdoms is a full band effort. The extra special ingredient on this album is that original members Rob Klan (keyboards) & Eric Fuller (bass) will guest on the very last track as a very special way to close out this incredible run.
Look for Between Two Kingdoms to be released late in 2013 and encompass eight tracks, three of which will be in the 10-12 minute range and tied conceptually to the album title. The three will weave in and out of vocal sections and extended instrumental sections.
Out Of The Archives is an album that sees original bass & drum composer Rick Mals working with Rob Perez on material (eleven songs total) that was never released from the 2003-2007 albums. Rob is handling the keyboard duties on this album along with all the guitar work.
Both albums will be released on CD but the extended digi-booklets will be sent electronically. The digi-book for each album will contain extensive notes on recording processes, guitar rigs and fx used, mixing tips & tricks along with follow along meanings behind each song.
Please note that VISUAL CLIFF is not going away permanently! We are, however, calling it a day on producing full length albums. The future will see VC releasing only a couple singles per year and offering them as free downloads on the "Our Music" page.
VISUAL CLIFF line-up:
Shane Lankford – Lead Vocals
Rob Perez – Guitars
John Neiswinger- Keyboards
David Michael - Bass
Thomas Schuffert – Drums
VISUAL CLIFF discography:
Lyrics For The Living (2003)
Key To Eternity (2004)
Freedom Within (2005)
Into The After (2007)
Collective Spirit (2010)
Out Of The Archives (2013)
Between Two Kingdoms (2013)
VISUAL CLIFF band history: www.visualcliff.net/Our_Story.html Facebook: www.facebook.com/visual.cliff.7?fref=ts
NEWS BRIEFS
*ADRIANGALE announces new rhythm section, bassist Matt Mahoney & drummer Lee Nelson (Facebook - 06/27/13): “We've eagerly wanted to make this announcement for some time now, and all good things come to those who wait. So please join ADRIANGALE in publicly welcoming its newest members to AG. Our Powerhouse rhythm section duo: Matt Mahoney (Bass Guitar) and Lee Nelson (Drums) !
Matt and Lee are each long-time friends, superb musicians and seriously great people to boot! The decision to invite them to join our outfit was a no-brainer. Having true team players on board makes us a better unit than ever before. It's going to be loud, energetic, and dangerous!
We are looking forward to bringing you our best performance come September at MelodicRockFest - you are going, right? Of course you are!!! So get your tickets now at: www.melodicock.com
And don't forget: preorders are now being taken for our upcoming new album Suckerpunch!, which will be released at the show! Paypal $12 (US orders) or $15 (International orders) to RockHauseMusic@hotmail.com Shipping is included in price! Plus ALL pre orders will be signed by the band”.
*MISSION OF ONE signed with Tate Music Group for the distribution of its new album Hostile To The Gospel. More details (in terms of release date) as they become available.
*SAINT EP update (Facebook – 06/04/13): “Here's what Saint is up to. Starting this week we go into full production mode for the new EP that's looking like a full LP with videos. We'll do some reviewing in a month or so and see if there's enough strong material and if so then it will be a new Saint album”.
Also be sure to check out the SAINT YouTube video page: www.youtube.com/user/OfficialSaintVideos?feature=mhee
*SOUND OF ETERNITY, the English version of Honduras based CODIGO ETERNO, is at work on a new album entitled Visions And Dreams. “Reason To Live” is the first single off the album: https://soundcloud.com/sound-of-eternity/reason-to-live
FEATURED REVIEWS
AMASEFFER - Slaves For Life
Placing Amaseffer within a specific style segment proves problematic due to the diverse and distinct nature of their sound. Progressive metal is the first word that comes to mind - along with some power and melodic metal aspects - but that would be limiting in that there is much more to the group from a musical standpoint. Read Full Review >>
John Elefante - On My Way To The Sun
On My Way To The Sun finds Elefante heading in a direction not unlike that of 3 by joining aspects of Kansas (in terms of occasional 70’s influences and progressive overtones) and Mastedon (touches of melodic rock and hard rock) with that of his solo material (from a smooth AOR and commercial standpoint). It is this tasteful mirroring of styles - and the creativity and inspiration therein - that helps make On My Way To The Sun, as already noted, such a special work. Read Full Review >>
LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE - Before The Revolution
A compilation albums key selling point is its predictability. Most, for instance, are exclusive to an artist’s radio hits with a variety of fan favorites, concert staples and quality deep cuts added to round things out. To generate further interest and increase sales, it is not uncommon for a couple of new songs to be included as well. Read Full Review >>
Darrell Mansfield - Revelation (Expanded Edition)
Revelation delivers as promised a blues heavy hard rock sound that at times borders on heavy metal. The album really flexes its muscles and comes across as a true hard rock releases as a result- and not some haphazard and thinly disguised attempt at the genre. Read Full Review >>
PASTOR BRAD - Trinity
Musically, Trinity trends towards eighties based melodic metal and straightforward hard rock but intermingled with a few traditional and power metal overtones. Hence, the likes of Whitecross, Bride, Stryper, Sacred Warrior and Rez Band are mentioned throughout the review as basis for comparison. Read Full Review >>
RAZORIGAMI - Weathering The Winter Of The Soul
The main calling card to Razorigami is Luke Richard Weber’s high octane and multifarious vocal abilities. To say that he is one of the up and coming talents in the metal and hard rock world would be an understatement. Read Full Review >>
WARLORD - The Holy Empire
On The Holy Empire Warlord strikes a balance between the dark, epic metal of its past and classically influenced sounds of Lordian Guard. It proves a compelling combination, particularly when factoring the manner in which the group stays true to the epic song structures and deep melodies of its first two releases while mixing orchestral and choral parts with the cinematic elements in which Tsamis later gained renown. Read Full Review >>
WONROWE VISION - Pictures Of The Past Present And Future
It’s only fitting that Melbourne, Australia based Wonrowe Vision bears the name of its founder, vocalist and bassist Steve Rowe. After all, Rowe is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the Christian metal scene, having cemented his legacy with his signature group Mortification but getting started in the mid-eighties as part of the lesser known but no less notable Lightforce. Read Full Review >>
CHRISTIAN METAL NEWS
ADRIANGALE, new song available for free download:
Classic melodic hard rock band set to release new album, Suckerpunch!:
The news you have been waiting for from Kivel Records! With a follow up to the much loved Crunch release from 2004, ADRIANGALE is back, and ready to jump into the ring again! The band is gearing up for their comeback appearance at this years MelodicRockFest 3 and can't wait to release Suckerpunch! to the fan base.
Pre-order your copy now and be the very first to have it this September at MRF3. ALL pre-orders up to Sept 24th will be personally signed by the band themselves and can be picked up at the Kivel Records Booth at MRF3 starting on Sept 27. For all customer orders not attending the show - those copies will be shipped out Sept 26.
What better way to sample what's to come than with a FULL track download. And the lads have delivered! Download and crank the new ADRIANGALE tune “When I Said You’d Be The One”: HERE
The Angelic Warlord review of Crunch (90%) described it as “one of the top releases of 2004” and “maintains the trend set by its predecessors by combining an abundance of catchy hard rock hooks with nothing less than a first rate performance from Jamie Rowe and company”.
To pre-order Suckerpunch! - Paypal $12 (US Orders) or $15 (International Orders) to: RockHausemusic@hotmail.com
ADRIANGALE discography:
Feel The Fire (Full length - 2000)
Under The Hood (EP - 2001)
Re:Program (Full length - 2002)
Live Program (Live - 2003)
Crunch (Full length - 2004)
Suckerpunch! (full length - 2013)
ADRIANGALE Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Adriangale
KINETIC ELEMENT signs with Melodic Revolutions Records:
Press Release / KINETIC ELEMENT is a neo/symphonic progressive rock band from Richmond, Virginia that harbors musical roots in classic artists like EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER, YES, ASIA and GENESIS and blends those influences with philosophical and spiritually powerful and uplifting lyrics.
KINETIC ELEMENT was formed to perform the music of vocalist Mike Visaggio's solo CD Starship Universe, which was released in 2006 after Mike was selected to perform at the 2006 Pop Montreal festival. That original group was a keyboard prog trio with Mike Visaggio (keys), Matt Harris (bass) and Michael Murray (drums). Since then they have assembled a repertoire of that entire CD, plus selected classic prog and classic rock covers and their new prog pieces they have put together since they formed and released their debut CD Powered By Light, which was nominated for Best Debut CD of 2009 by The Prog Awards.
The band is now comprised of Mike Visaggio (keyboards and lead vocals); Michael Murray (drums and backing vocals), Todd Russell (electric and acoustic guitar), George DeCola (lead vocalist, guitar and keyboards) and Len Dupika (bass).
Powered By Light was done at Sound of Music Studios in Richmond, Virginia and it was released in September 2009. In May 2008 KE was privileged to be a support act for CIRCA (featuring Tony Kaye and Alan White of YES, at Jaxx in northern Virginia), RARE BLEND (at Orion Studios in Baltimore, Maryland one of prog’s must-play venues), IZZ (who have played every prog festival in America, at the Artomatic festival in Washington, D.C.) In 2009, KE supported MORGLBL (at Capitol Ale House Music Hall in Richmond VA). In 2010, with Edensong (at Orion again). Kinetic Element opened the nation’s longest running prog rock festival, Prog Day, at the Pre-Show on August 29, 2008 with Speechless and again on Sept. 3, 2010 with Jack Dupon. They played The Magic Room in Boston in November 2011 headlining, with suppport acts ECCENTRIC ORBIT and RESISTOR. Besides promoting Powered By Light the band is actively writing new material and doing pre-production. They were invited to play the first Ohio Prog festival to be held in September 2012 before the festival was unfortunately cancelled.
At this time (May 2013) the band is working on a second CD in their cavernous garage home studio and playing gigs at venues around Richmond.
Further reading: www.melodicrevolution.com/page/kinetic-element
Official: www.kineticelement.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Kinetic-Element-Official-Site
SIGNUM REGIS signs with Ulterium Records:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are proud to announce the signing of the melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS.
With their two previous albums The Eyes Of Power (2010) and Signum Regis (2008) they established themselves as a highly respected band in the scene, especially with the diverse concept album The Eyes Of Power that received great reviews from around the world. The singer on both albums was no other than Göran Edman, known for his work with Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum and many more.
SIGNUM REGIS is currently putting the finishing touches to their third album entitled Exodus, a concept album that will be released later this year. The difference between this album and the previous albums is that SIGNUM REGIS won't be fronted by one singer, but each track will feature different singers. Confirmed so far are Matt Smith (THEOCRACY), Michael Vescera (OBESSION, ANIMETAL USA, ex. Yngwie Malmsteen), Thomas Winkler (GLORYHAMMER, EMERALD) and Göran Edman [ex. Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum]. More singers will be announced later on, as well as release dates, artwork etc.
Official: www.signum-regis.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/signum.regis Ulterium Records: www.ulterium-records.com
NEWS BRIEFS
*AFFECTOR, “New Jerusalem” radio edit: https://soundcloud.com/affector/newjerusalem
*BLOODGOOD, Metal Missionaries 25th Anniversary Edition CD back in stock: http://bloodgoodband.com/memi25anedcd.html
This is the original BLOODGOOD Metal Missionaries demo from 1985 totally re-mastered. It includes the first versions of “Awake!”, “Accept The Lamb”, “Anguish & Pain”, and “Battle Of The Flesh”. Also included is a demo version of the new song, "Man in the Middle" and an exclusive interview with the band from 1986.
*Chris Impellitteri is currently at work on material for the next IMPELLITTERI album. Further details (in terms of who will be fronting the project) to be announced as they become available.
*“Grace And Gravity” is a new song scheduled for release as part of the upcoming LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE compilation, 4-All: Best Of LNJ 2: http://youtu.be/7MCT5375FiQ The song features four of the five members of the current LNJ roster: David Cagle (vocals), JK Northrup (guitars), Eric Ragno (keyboards) and Justin Murr (bass).
4-All: Best Of LNJ 2 will include 4 new songs in addition to one each from prior LNJ releases Soundtrack Of A Soul (2006), Independence Day (2007) & Hell Is Coming To Breakfast (2012), 4 from Light It Up (2010), 2 from Chasing A Cure (2011) and 5 from The Cigar Chronicles (2013). Release date is set for October 22, 2013.
You can pre-order 4-All: Best Of LNJ 2 at: www.libertynjustice.net
“No Honor Among Thieves”, another new track off 4-All: The Best Of LNJ 2, can be streamed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgDC4a8BJKQ
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