Loud Reviews

Van Halen are back, with "A Different Kind Of Truth"

2012-02-12T23:02:00.003-07:00

It's been nearly 30 years in the making, a new Van Halen album with Diamond David Lee Roth on vocals. February 7th saw the release of "A Different Kind Of Truth" the first song released was called "Tattoo" which was easily the weakest song on the album, and many agree. so I was hoping for the other songs to be kicked up a notch, and indeed they were. and as I was listening to these songs, I couldn't help but think that they sounded so much like classic VH. turns out there was a reason for that. some of the songs actually came from the vaults, songs that were originally featured on the 1976 Van Halen demo tape produced and financed by Gene Simmons. "She's The Woman" is the only song out of 4 that kept it's original title, and sounds almost alike, other than its got a new middle section, "Outta Space" which is my personal favorite off the new disc, was originally called "Lets get Rockin" "Big River" is a re-working of "Big Trouble" and "Beat's Workin" was called "Put Out The Lights" but I think it's fine that they chose some old classics and re-recorded them, why not right?

other great songs are "Blood And Fire" the song sounds like something right off the 1984 release, very catchy with trademark Eddie Van Halen all over it. "As Is" reminds me of "Hot For Teacher" and a 2nd personal favorite of mine is 'Stay Frosty" this song is vintage Van Halen. the only thing missing on "A Different Kind Of Truth" are the backing melodies of Micheal Anthony, who's been replaced by Eddies son Wolfgang, I'm not taking anything away from Wolfgang, but Micheal's vocals were an important part of Van Halen. and if you think Eddie Van Halen has lost his edge through the years, listen to "Big River" it's given me a whole new respect for the man. all in all, its a very strong release. any Van Halen fan will be satisfied

Track List for A Different Kind of Truth:

“Tattoo“
“She’s the Woman“
“You and Your Blues“
“China Town“
“Blood and Fire“
“Bullethead“
“As Is“
“Honeybabysweetiedoll“
“The Trouble with Never“
“Outta Space“
“Stay Frosty“
“Big River“
“Beats Workin’“

5/5*****

review by Guillermo Rascon

Joe Lynn Turner Returns With New Sunstorm Album; "Emotional Fire"

2012-02-10T04:28:00.000-07:00

Artist: Sunstorm

Album: Emotional Fire

Release: February 28, 2011

Rating: *** 1/2

There's no doubt in my mind after listening to this album for the last few weeks that Joe Lynn Turner, vocally has never sounded better. The guy is truly a killer vocalist, and one of my favorites outta the 80's. He's done stints with Deep Purple, Rainbow and Yngwie Malmsteen, just to name a few. All of which have earned him critical acclaim. In fact, I am a huge Rainbow fan. I love all of the work that band has to offer. But my favorite albums by far, are the albums on which Joe Lynn Turner appears on. No other vocalist in the world has a sound like he does. That being said, I only have one small problem with the body of work that lies within "Emotional Fire", the new album from Joe's band Sunstorm.

Sunstorm is a project that Joe has bounced back and forth with over the last few years or so. They've put out some pretty decent stuff and this new album really is not different. The songs within this new album were taken from some of the stuff Joe had lieing around left over from some of his past solo works, going all the way back to the mid to late 80's. the first half of this album is great. Some of the best stuff I've heard in awhile. There's a few songs here in the second half of the album, however, that should have stayed on the cutting room floor. Most notably, "Gina" and "Emily". Sorry girls, but Joe should have left you ladies in his past. But for these two songs to be the only blemishes, it's really not too bad. If you can get past those, then the album as a whole is decent. There's nothing really spectacular here, but it's not all that bad either. Joe and the band sound great, the production is very good, solid and crisp. A good album for any Joe Lynn Turner fan to own for their collection.

Stand Out Cuts: Of coarse the title track, "Emotional Fire" is one of them. It has a fantastic 80's feel to it and a damn good sing-a-long chorus. "You Wouldn't Know Love" is probably my favorite here. Talk about a great song! It's classic 80's and grabs you the minute you hear it. The rest of the album is decent and not a bad listen, but some of these songs should have probably stayed hidden. I do recommend this album, however for all the Joe Lynn Turner fans. The guy hasn't missed a beat and sounds better than ever here on this album. Hoping to hear a solo project soon from him though!

Reviewed By: JT

Sharon Osbourne: "I am not in any position to hire or fire anyone in BLACK SABBATH"

2012-02-08T21:13:00.002-07:00

Sharon Osbourne, the wife/manager of BLACK SABBATH singer Ozzy Osbourne, has shot down Internet rumors that she has effectively "fired" founding SABBATH drummer Bill Ward, who announced last week that he could not participate in the band's recording sessions or tour plans due to his unhappiness with the contract he was offered. Writing on Twitter, she said, "I am not in any position to hire or fire anyone in BLACK SABBATH. I don't manage the band, I manage my husband."

...I don't believe her

Black Sabbath Pledge To Carry on Without Drummer Bill Ward

2012-02-03T14:25:00.003-07:00

Black Sabbath have responded to drummer Bill Ward's open letter pledging to leave the band unless he is presented with a "signable contract." In a statement on Facebook, Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler indicated they they will carry on with their new album and reunion tour without him. "We were saddened to hear yesterday via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current Black Sabbath plans," they wrote. "We have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open...We are still in the UK with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll...See you at Download!!!"

Tony Iommi was recently diagnosed with lymphoma, causing the band to move their recording sessions from Los Angeles to England, where the guitarist is receiving treatment. They reportedly backed out of a planned headlining slot at Coachella and their European summer tour seemed to be in jeopardy, though the above statement makes it clear they plan on performing at the Download Festival on June 10th.

Black Sabbath toured without Bill Ward when the original line-up reformed in 1997, but he joined up with the group the following year. In 2004 a contract dispute nearly caused him to not participate on that summer's Ozzfest tour, but he eventually wound up signing on. "After the last tour I vowed to never again sign on to an unreasonable contract," Ward wrote in his recent letter. "I want a contract that shows some respect to me and my family, a contract that will honor all that I've brought to Black Sabbath since its beginning."

He also addresses the possibility that the group might replace him. "If I'm replaced, I have to face you, the beloved Sabbath fans," he wrote. "I hope you will not hold me responsible for the failure of an original Black Sabbath lineup as promoted. Without fault finding, I want to assure everyone that my loyalty to Sabbath is intact."

It's unclear who the group plans to bring in to play drums on their new projects, though in the past Faith No More's Mike Bordin and Vinny Appice have played in Black Sabbath when Ward was unavailable.

Source: Rolling Stone

Lamb Of God "Resolution" CD Review

2012-01-27T13:54:00.005-07:00

many people consider Lamb Of God to be one of the best in the modern metal band genre, and I completely agree, with hit albums like "Ashes Of The Wake" and "Sacrament", but the band's 2009 release "Wrath" just didn't do it for me, it left me wanting more, so when I got my hands on the bands newest, Resolution" my excitement level wasn't all that high, so would Lamb Of God fade into obscurity like so many other New Wave of American Metal bands? I doubt it, after listening to "Resolution" the band is back! the opening track is called "Straight for the Sun" it's got a very doomy sound, it reminded me of the band Crowbar. it's a shame the song is so short though.

"Desolation." is the next song, and that song kicks you right in the gut, perfect reminder why I got into this band. LOG do throw in a few more surprises, like the instrumental "Barbarosa" and even some spoken word on "The Number Six" other standout songs are "Cheated" "To The End" "Guilty" and "King Me" the majority of Resolution is what you have come to know from Lamb Of God. Drummer Chris Adler is a monster on drums, the riffs created by guitarists Willie Adler, and Mark Morton are intense, and singer Randy Blythe is as brutal as ever.
I think new and older fans of the band will like this release

"Resolution" features 14 songs and comes in a digipack with artwork by longtime art director Ken Adams.

"Resolution" track listing:

01. Straight For The Sun
02. Desolation
03. Ghost Walking
04. Guilty
05. The Undertow
06. The Number Six
07. Barbarosa
08. Invictus
09. Cheated
10. Insurrection
11. Terminally Unique
12. To The End
13. Visitation
14. King Me

****/5
review by Guillermo
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Founding RIOT Guitarist Mark Reale Has Died

2012-01-25T20:50:00.004-07:00

Mark Reale Mark Reale, the founding guitarist of the legendary metal band RIOT has died. He was admitted to San Antonio hospital last week in critical condition due to complications of Crohn's disease — an ailment he has battled for most of his life. Mark was 57.

Mark formed the band Riot in 1975 who are still active today. Many music magazines and critics have called him one of the most underrated heavy metal guitarists ever.

Mark Reale has been the principal songwriter and main creative force behind Riot starting with the band's 1977 debut album Rock City. The group's most acclaimed album was 1981's seminal Fire Down Under, the last of three studio albums to feature original vocalist Guy Speranza. Other notable records include Restless Breed (1982), the band's comeback album, Thundersteel (1988), and its follow-up, The Privilege of Power (1990). Riot's most recent album was Army of One in 2006. Riot has toured all around the world and been a support act for major acts such as Kiss, AC/DC, Sammy Hagar, Molly Hatchet, and Rush while maintaining a particularly strong fanbase in Japan and Continental Europe.

After Riot's temporary breakup following the Born In America (1983) release, Reale formed a short-lived outfit named Narita with former members of S.A.Slayer, including future Riot bassist Don Van Stavern. The band recorded a sole demo in 1984 before calling it quits. Reale decided to re-activate Riot which led to a new record deal with CBS Records and the Thundersteel album in 1988. In 1998, Reale co-founded the group Westworld with vocalist Tony Harnell of TNT fame. Westworld released three studio albums and one live disc between 1999 and 2002.

Dates Announced For Behemoth, Watain, The Devil’s Blood & In Solitude North American Tour

2012-01-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

Dates have been announced for the “Decibel Magazine Tour” which features Behemoth, Watain, The Devil’s Blood and In Solitude. Here’s where the tour will touch down:

04/11 Columbus, OH – The Bluestone
04/12 Pittsburgh, PA – Mr. Smalls
04/13 Chicago, IL – Bottom Lounge
04/14 St. Paul, MN – Station Four
04/16 Lawrence, KS – Granada Theater
04/17 Denver, CO – Summit Theatre
04/18 Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
04/20 Seattle, WA – Studio Seven
04/21 Vancouver, BC – Rickshaw
04/22 Portland, OR – Hawthorne Theater
04/23 San Francisco, CA – Slims
04/25 Los Angeles, CA – House Of Blues
04/26 Phoenix, AZ – Nile Theater
04/27 Albuquerque, NM – Sunshine Theater
04/29 San Antonio, TX – White Rabbit
05/01 Tampa, FL – Orpheum
05/02 Atlanta, GA – Masquerade
05/04 Charlotte, NC – Amos Southend
05/05 Baltimore, MD – Rams Head
05/06 Philadelphia, PA – Trocadero Theatre
05/08 Toronto, ON – Opera House
05/09 Montreal, QC – Club Soda
05/10 Quebec City, QC – Imperial
05/11 Worcester, MA – Palladium
05/12 New York, NY – Irving Plaza

Ticket details and more can be found over at the tours official website, Decibelmagazinetickets.com

Overkill new album release date, and cover artwork

2012-01-23T10:13:00.003-07:00

New Jersey thrash metal veterans OVERKILL will release their new album, "The Electric Age", in North America on March 27 via eOne Music. The CD will be made available in Europe on March 30 through Nuclear Blast Records.

"The Electric Age" was recorded and mixed at Gain Studios in New Jersey, owned and operated by OVERKILL bassist D.D. Verni.

OVERKILL will embark on the "Killfest 2" headlining tour in April/May. Support on the trek will come from BELPHEGOR, ABORTED, BLACKGUARD, SYSTEM DIVIDE and DIAMOND PLATE.

OVERKILL's latest CD, "Ironbound", sold 4,100 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 192 on The Billboard 200 chart. The effort landed at No. 4 on the Top New Artist Albums (Heatseekers) chart, which lists the best-selling albums by new and developing artists, defined as those who have never appeared in the Top 100 of The Billboard 200.

OVERKILL's previous album, "Immortalis", opened with 2,800 units back in October 2007.

"Ironbound" was released on February 9, 2010 via E1 Music (formerly KOCH Records). The CD, which was issued in Europe on January 29, 2010 via Nuclear Blast Records, was mixed by PAIN/HYPOCRISY mainman Peter Tägtgren and is described in a press release as "a true thrasher-piece."

OVERKILL is Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth (vocals), D.D. Verni (bass, backing vocals), Derek "The Skull" Tailer (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), Dave Linsk (lead guitar, backing vocals) and Ron Lipnicki (drums).

Is there hope for today's youth? I think so

2012-01-19T11:58:00.001-07:00

watch 8 year old Juliet throw down.

JUDAS PRIEST's Career Showcased With Extensive CD Box Set, 'The Complete Albums Collection'

2012-01-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

Few heavy metal artists have built as stellar a discography as JUDAS PRIEST over the years. And now, fans will get a chance to acquire all of PRIEST's classics in one fell swoop. On January 24, Columbia/Epic/Legacy will release the 17-CD box set, "The Complete Albums Collection", which contains every studio and live album that featured the classic line up of Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, K.K. Downing and Ian Hill.

Included will be brand new remasters of PRIEST's first two albums, 1974's "Rocka Rolla" and 1976's "Sad Wings of Destiny" (which have never been released before as authorized remasters by the band), in addition to each individual album being packaged in a replica mini-LP sleeve reproducing that album’s original cover art. And although the 2009 live compilation, "A Touch of Evil…Live" is included; no other compilations will be present. Also featured in the set will be a 40-page booklet with photos, album credits, and liner notes by rock journalist/PRIEST fan Greg Prato.

"The Complete Albums Collection" will be available for purchase exclusively via Popmarket.com.

It's not often that you can acquire all of the classic albums by one of rock's all-time great bands in one gorgeously assembled package. JUDAS PRIEST's "The Complete Albums Collection" is certainly one of these rare occurrences.

Albums included in "The Complete Albums Collection":

01. Rocka Rolla (1974)
02. Sad Wings Of Destiny (1976)
03. Sin After Sin (1977)
04. Stained Class (1978)
05. Killing Machine (1978)
06. Unleashed In The East (1979)
07. British Steel (1980)
08. Point Of Entry (1981)
09. Screaming For Vengeance (1982)
10. Defenders Of The Faith (1984)
11. Turbo (1986)
12. Priest…Live! (1987)
13. Ram It Down (1988)
14. Painkiller (1990)
15. Angel Of Retribution (2005)
16. Nostradamus (2008)
17. A Touch Of Evil…Live (2009)

"The Chosen Few", the recently released compilation album from JUDAS PRIEST, sold 1,300 copies in the United States in its first week of release. The collection, which came out on October 11, 2011 via Legacy/Sony, contains songs that were selected by some of the biggest names of the hard rock/heavy metal world, including KISS' Gene Simmons, Ozzy Osbourne, Slash, METALLICA's James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, Alice Cooper and SLIPKNOT's Corey Taylor.

Iron Maiden To Release New Live DVD/Blu-ray “En Vivo!” In March

2012-01-17T11:22:00.002-07:00

EMI are proud to announce the release of a new live IRON MAIDEN Blu-Ray, 2DVD Set and Double Soundtrack Album on Monday March 26th (March 27th Canada and USA (via UMe)).

“EN VIVO!” was filmed on 10th April 2011 in front of over 50,000 ecstatic fans at the Estadio Nacional, Santiago during the Round The World In 66 Days leg of The Final Frontier World Tour, and captures a magnificent performance by the band, ardently embraced by the legendary Latino passion and energy of their Chilean fans. With spectacular stage backdrops, dynamic musicianship and a literally jaw-dropping appearance by Eddie, this live show encapsulates to perfection the heart and soul of Iron Maiden 2011.

Bass player and founder member Steve Harris comments “For The Final Frontier Tour it was really important to me that we filmed in South America as we’re always so overwhelmed by the fans’ reaction when we go to that part of the world and I wanted to reflect that in the filming. After much consideration we chose the Santiago show as we felt it was one of our best performances of the entire Tour and to play at the prestigious Estadio Nacional was a landmark moment for us. For reasons known to our fans, it took a long time before we got to play our first show in Chile, and once we did get to play a show, the response was so phenomenal we just had to keep coming back and it’s got better and better each time!

This show also features the gigantic new Eddie. He wasn’t due to make his appearance until our European leg of the tour later in 2011, but we managed to transport him across the sea in a special huge container just in time for the latter end of the South American dates so it was great we were able to immortalize him for the DVD as he really has to be seen to be believed!”

The concert was filmed digitally using 22 HD cameras and an octocam (a flying camera which captures aerial crowd scenes), recorded in both stereo and 5.1 audio and mixed by Maiden’s longstanding producer Kevin “Caveman” Shirley, all of which serves to accentuate the incredible atmosphere of this compelling performance. Extensive use is made of split screens so fans can follow the individual members closer and the set list moves seamlessly between songs from Maiden’s most recent studio album, 2010′s The Final Frontier through to classic fan favourites via the band’s vast and varied catalogue. (full set listing below).

DVD Disc Two is a Bonus Disc containing an 88-minute documentary, BEHIND THE BEAST. This is also an entirely in-house production by Maiden’s own Krew, led by Andy Matthews, and is intended as an interesting and revealing high quality “home movie” for their fans of how to put on an Iron Maiden tour and what goes on behind the scenes at a show. It describes the extraordinary story of one of the most acclaimed and ambitious touring shows in the world. It illustrates the day to day life and complex tasks of the Maiden Killer Krew and the other characters behind the scenes. The expertise and experience, the problem-solving and successes, the sheer scale and immense difficulties of the undertaking comes to life through the day to day coverage of the tour and the background work of the crews in sound, lighting, carpentry, production and set design. As well as interviews with the Iron Maiden crew, it interweaves anecdotes from the band and their fans, and includes footage of the live show in this comprehensive guide to the intricacies of staging massive, live Stadium shows around the World out of the belly of a Boeing 757. The bonus disc also contains an extended version of the promo video “Satellite 15…The Final Frontier“, a video about the making of “Satellite 15…The Final Frontier” plus the opening video sequence to The Final Frontier World Tour.

In addition to the Blu-Ray, the 2DVD will initially be available as a Limited Edition double DVD in Collectors Steel book case and Double Vinyl Picture Disc. As well as a traditional 2CD Soundtrack album, EN VIVO! will also be available as a Digital Download, CD soundtrack album and Digital Download Video.

Maiden’s “Final Frontier World Tour 2010-11” saw the band circumnavigating the planet for the third time in their customized Boeing 757, Ed Force One, piloted by lead singer Bruce Dickinson, and playing 98 shows in 36 countries to over 2 million fans.

DVD DISC ONE “LIVE AT ESTADIO NACIONAL, SANTIAGO” (approx running time 120 mins)
1. Satellite 15
2. The Final Frontier
3. El Dorado
4. 2 Minutes To Midnight
5. The Talisman
6. Coming Home
7. Dance Of Death
8. The Trooper
9. The Wicker Man
10. Blood Brothers
11. When The Wild Wind Blows
12. The Evil That Men Do
13. Fear Of The Dark
14. Iron Maiden
15. The Number Of The Beast
16. Hallowed Be Thy Name
17. Running Free

BONUS DISC – DVD DISC TWO “BEHIND THE BEAST” (approx running time 102 mins)
1.Behind The Beast documentary
2.Satellite 15…The Final Frontier promo video (director’s cut)
3.The Making of Satellite 15…The Final Frontier promo
4.The Final Frontier World Tour Show Intro”

RIOT Guitarist Mark Reale Health Update

2012-01-16T17:15:00.002-07:00

Due to complications arising from treatment for Mark's illness, he remains hospitalized in San Antonio and will not be healthy enough to appear as scheduled.

Mike, Tony, Bobby and Don have, at the strong urging of Mark's family, decided to perform the shows without Mark on guitar.

We are receiving updates on his condition several times daily, and Mark is currently undergoing procedures to stabilize him. His father, in addition to several dedicated friends of the band and the family, are at Mark's side constantly as doctors work to restore him to health. In accordance with the family's wishes, no further details are being released at this time.

While we are saddened by these developments, Riot's music has been Mark's lifeblood for over 30 years. We have struggled with idea of performing without him, and we are continuing to prepare with heavy hearts, but the entire Riot organization has agreed on the importance of bringing our music to the fans who have supported us for so long.

Please watch this site for news on Mark's recovery, and we ask that friends and fans pray for the best possible outcome.

Thank you for continuing to support Riot during this difficult time, and we will see you at the shows.

Mike, Tony, Bobby and Don

RIOT LIVE ON TOUR

1/18: New York, NY @ BB Kings

1/19: West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx

1/20: Rochester, NY @ Montage Music Hall

Mollo/Martin Take Melodic Rock To The Edge with "The Third Cage"

2012-01-13T21:07:00.000-07:00

Artist: Mollo/Martin

Album: The Third Cage

Release: January 24th, 2012

Rating: ****

Just weeks before this duo release their latest effort, "The Third Cage", Music Critics are already giving this album a ton of praise. And this Critic is no different! First and foremost though, before I get into this review, I would like to give a huge, huge thank you to our friends over at Frontiers Records for introducing me and everyone here at Loud Reviews to some artists that we may have never heard before, and giving us the chance to bring these bands to you, our readers to inform you that they are out there. And for also re-introducing you to some of the classic 80's artists that Frontiers has signed to their ranks as well! If not for Frontiers, these classic 80's rockers may not have been given the chance that they now have with Frontiers.

And with that long over due thank you out of the way, let's get to this review shall we!? Dario Mollo and Tony Martin return with this latest release called "The Third Cage". And with this release, they stretch Melodic Rock to new heights. Well, let's say that they bring a more modern approach to Melodic Rock, while still keeping a lot of the classic elements of the genre. That couldn't be more evident than it is with the opening cut on this effort called "Wicked World". The tune is heavy without any overkill and Tony Martin's vocals really sore on this one. This is the case all the way through this effort. My next favorite cut on this work is "Oh My Soul", one of the most haunting ballads I've heard in a long, long time. This is how ballads should sound and how they should be written. A good ballad should grab your attention and keep it all the way through, while making you feel what the artist is trying to put across as his or her message. If an artist can make his or her audience feel that, then they have really accomplished what it takes to write a great ballad.

One of my other favorite tunes on this release is the more 80's sounding "Don't Know What It Is About You". The tune is well written both, musically and lyrically, while having almost and Anthem quality about it which make it kind of unique. My other favorite here is another ballad called "Violet Moon". A tune which is even more haunting than "Oh My Soul", if you could believe that!

Even though I have my favorites on this release, they do not take away from the other songs on this album at all. Every track here is worth listening to over and over again. Specifically for the fact that you may have missed something the first few run throughs. This album is produced quite well and the songs are smart, well written and just a blast to listen to. My only hope is that people pay attention to this one, because if you don't, your going to miss out on one of the best Melodic Rock albums of the year so far. This is definitely one you can't miss and is a definite "Must Have" for any Melodic Rock fan. Yes, it is well worth the money you'll spend to own this one. Grab this one! Your gonna love it!

Reviewed by: JT

Riot's Mark Reale Hospitalized

2012-01-13T11:36:00.002-07:00

RIOT Guitarist Hospitalized Due To Complications Of Crohn's Disease

Riot founder and guitarist Mark Reale has been admitted to a San Antonio hospital in critical condition due to complications of Crohn's disease. Subsequently, there is a possibility that he may not appear in the band's upcoming performances in the Northeast and aboard the 70,000 Tons of Metal Cruise to Grand Cayman.

Mark has been battling Crohn's for most of his life, working and performing while enduring almost constant pain and the side effects of treatment for his illness. He was in Texas bravely attempting to practice for the shows, but was felled by a severe onset of Crohn's symptoms leaving him in the Intensive Care Unit at an undisclosed facility.

The band has agreed that the performances will take place as scheduled with the possibility that Mark may not be well enough in time to appear. Riot would also like to acknowledge that Mark has been struggling with these symptoms throughout the production of their new album, Immortal Soul, and that guitarist Mike Flyntz recorded a major portion of the guitars on the album with Mark's creative direction while he was unable to perform.

For this reason, fans can be assured that the show will be as exciting as anything Riot has ever staged, even if Mike needs to hold down double guitar duty. Mark will be sorely missed in this event, but the shows will go on.

We ask fans and friends of the band to pray for Mark's speedy recovery, and to support the band in our efforts to bring you the Riot reunion shows that have been so long in the making. While Mark's family insists on privacy during this difficult time, your prayers and good wishes will make it to his bedside until he is able to return to the stage.

Many thanks and Shine On!

Mike, Tony, Bobby and Don

RIOT LIVE ON TOUR

1/18: New York, NY @ BB Kings

1/19: West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx

1/20: Rochester, NY @ Montage Music Hall

LITA FORD SIGNS TO SPV/STEAMHAMMER; NEW ALBUM TITLE REVEALED

2012-01-12T13:12:00.001-07:00

Legendary female metal icon LITA FORD has signed a worldwide deal with SPV/Steamhammer. Her new album entitled "Living Like A Runaway" is tentatively set for a May 2012 release. Best known for her work with The Runaways and her solo career, featuring hit singles "Kiss Me Deadly" and the Billboard charting duet "Close My Eyes Forever" with Ozzy Osbourne, LITA is ready to make a return to the throne as the queen of metal:

"SPV gets who I am, my work, and what it takes to bring this project to life. I'm very excited to have them on my team," says LITA.

LITA spoke about her work with Gary Hoey on the album and the meaning of the album's title:

"Gary Hoey and I wanted to approach this record by getting back to basics. We want to strip away all the electronics and plug-ins and keep it to vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. Going back to basics is going back to what punk, metal and The Runways was for me.

"Living Like A Runaway" means freedom and empowerment. To do what I want and to pursue my dreams while answering to no one."

SPV A&R Representative/Product Manager Olly Hahn commented on the signing of LITA FORD:

"When I bought "Dancin`On The Edge" back in 1984 I never thought that I would ever sign Lita Ford to a label. But a dream of mine came true and it`s a huge honor for us at SPV/Steamhammer to have one of the leading women in Rock n`Roll on our label."

Mike Portnoy's new band Flying Colors announce debut album

2012-01-11T09:06:00.003-07:00

Flying Colors, the spectacular new virtuoso prog/pop/rock band, featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater) and guitarist Steve Morse (Deep Purple), will release their eponymous debut album in the UK on Monday March 26th, followed by a US release on Tuesday March 27th.

Released by Music Theories Recordings, the debut album includes the talents of Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals), Dave LaRue (bass), Neal Morse (keyboards, vocals), Casey McPherson (lead vocals, guitar), and Steve Morse (lead guitar). "The album has bits and pieces of what you'd expect from each of us,” says Portnoy. “The sum of all its parts led to brand new, unchartered territory for everyone involved." Click here to read the full web press release and download hi res photos - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/mascot/flyingcolors.htm.

The formation of Flying Colors began with a simple idea: virtuoso musicians and a pop singer joining together to make new-fashioned music the old fashioned way. Refreshing, classic, old and new, the recordings are saturated with the many styles, tones and hues of the players who, in becoming a band, have delivered a unique fusion of vintage craftsmanship and contemporary music.

Mike Portnoy was the co-founding member and drummer for one of the world’s biggest prog metal bands “Dream Theater”. Neal Morse is the co-founding member of the prog rock band Spock’s Beard and is currently the prog rock supergroup “Transatlantic”. David LaRue plays bass for the Dixie Dregs and has also worked with Joe Satriani and Steve Vai. Steve Morse has been playing lead guitar for Deep Purple for the last 16 years. Founder and leader of “Alpha Rev”, Casey McPherson, has enjoyed major success in the US with multiple hits including the song “New Morning”.

"It was quite an experience,” recalls Dave LaRue. “The band moved at a fast pace, ideas flying around the room at all times. Sections of tunes were arranged, and then re-arranged. Ideas were tried every which way until we made them work, or, in some cases, discarded them altogether. Just keeping track of everything was a challenge!" The album is filled with trial and triumph. It's been an inspiring challenge melding folk, prog, pop, and metal all into one big recording."

BLACK SABBATH Guitar Legend TONY IOMMI Diagnosed With Lymphoma

2012-01-09T09:37:00.002-07:00

BLACK SABBATH have issued the following official statement:

"With the news that Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, his bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time. Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan - the 'Iron Man' of rock & roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery."

This comes as Black Sabbath - Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Bill Ward (drums) - are writing and recording their first album in 33 years in Los Angeles (still set for release this fall) with producer Rick Rubin. They will now go to the UK to continue to work with Tony.

Further information will be released as it becomes available.

According to Wikipedia, Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of cell that forms part of the immune system. Typically, lymphomas present as a solid tumor of lymphoid cells. Treatment might involve chemotherapy and in some cases radiotherapy and/or bone marrow transplantation, and can be curable depending on the histology, type, and stage of the disease.

Nickelback Hit The Mark With "Here And Now"

2012-01-06T16:42:00.000-07:00

Artist: Nickelback

Album: Here And Now

Released: November, 2011

Rating: ****

Whether you love them or hate them, and there seems to be an awful lot of haters of this band out there, you have to admit that they are probably one of the most consistent bands to come out of the late 90's. The thing I can't figure out though is why people are hating on this band so much? Did they wrong their fans in some way, shape or form? Have they made derogatory remarks about something or someone to cause such hatred? Or is it the fact that ever since this band put out the multi-platinum album "Silver Side Up", they just aren't going away like some of their counterpart bands from that time too? If that's the case, then there is a reason for that! See, the most talented bands get better with each subsequent release. And along with that comes consistency and resiliency! Nickelback are one of those bands that no matter what, they keep getting better and better and more consistent with each release. Hmm... yeah, I can see why all of you non-talented people and bands would hate that. Why should we praise someone for getting better and hanging around for awhile when we are so used to being spoon fed a new "Flavor" each month by television, radio and so on?! It's much better to praise wanna-be's like Lady Ga-Ga, Britny Spears, Katy Perry and Justin Bieber! All of which make me deathly ill when they are even mentioned in my house! Yep, right there is talent beyond everything... right?? WRONG!!!

I guess people still haven't learned that there is more to being talented than just looking good. If you want to do something based on your looks, become a fucking Model and leave being a Musician to someone who is really talented enough to be there regardless of what they look like! As long as the music is good, who cares what the band or person looks like! If it's good ol' fashioned Rock-n-Roll with a bite you are lookin' for, then look no further than Canadian Rockers, Nickelback! Well, with the exception of you haters who probably secretly like Justin Bieber or Timberlake or who ever else happens to be the new Teen fave right now. Nickelback are a true talent. They can actually play their instruments the way they should be played and... with a damn guitar solo in the songs to boot!!

The new album kicks off with an all out balls to the wall Rocker called "This Means War". This song is guaranteed to get you shakin' your fists and screamin' the lyrics right along with Chad Kroeger! It took me about 5 playbacks of this song to get it out of my system before I could move on with the rest of the disc. After this raucous rocker comes my new favorite Drinking tune called "Bottoms Up". A strong mid-tempo rocker, "Bottoms Up" is bound to get ya in the mood to dig out that favorite bottle of alcohol, whether it be Jack, Jim Beam, Schnapps, whatever! Next up is the albums first single and in my opinion, one of the only stinkers on the album. Okay, yeah, I get that it's supposed to be written for our troops or whatever but really, they couldn't have done better than this song?? I was expecting with a title like "We Stand Together" and all out in your face Rocker! But no, instead we get this lack luster and even drab tune that your practically falling asleep to by the time it's over. It really would have been better off as a lullaby.

"Here And Now" does get better after that though... a lot better believe me! Even the next few ballads that are here are pretty good. With the exception of "We Stand Together", this is a solid Rock album and is right up there with this bands best works and I'm highly recommending you pick this one up! Hey, even some of you haters should pick this one up too! Maybe you might learn something from a real Rock band!

Reviewed By: JT

Van Halen Announce Tour Dates and Album Title

2012-01-05T21:05:00.002-07:00

VAN HALEN ANNOUNCE 2012 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR AND THE FEBRUARY 7, 2012 RELEASE OF THEIR NEW ALBUM,

A DIFFERENT KIND OF TRUTH

* * * *

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 6, 2011) Van Halen, Rock And Roll Hall of Fame inductees and one of the most important and influential rock bands of all time, announced their return to the live stage with an extraordinary 2012 North American tour. The announcement was made late last night, during a once-in-a-lifetime performance, at the intimate Café Wha? in New York City. Known around the world for some of the most iconic live performances in music history, the legendary rock band will begin their tour on February 18. Kool & The Gang will join Van Halen for select tour dates.

Tickets for the Live Nation-promoted tour go on sale beginning January 14 at Ticketmaster.com and LiveNation.com.

In addition, Van Halen confirmed their new album, A Different Kind Of Truth, will be released in the U.S. by Interscope Records on February 7. The first single from the album, "Tattoo", and its accompanying video will be debut simultaneously on Tuesday, January 10th, with album pre-orders starting that day. A Different Kind Of Truth is Van Halen's first original studio album with singer David Lee Roth since the band’s classic multi-platinum album 1984.

Fans can expect Van Halen to perform selections from A Different Kind Of Truth alongside songs from their arsenal of epic hits that include: "Eruption," "Running with the Devil," "Jamie's Cryin'," "You Really Got Me," "Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love,” "Everybody Wants Some," "Unchained," "And The Cradle Will Rock,” "Beautiful Girls,” "Mean Street," "Somebody Get Me A Doctor,” "Jump," “Panama," "Hot For Teacher," "I'll Wait," and more from their classic albums Van Halen, Van Halen II, Women and Children First, Fair Warning, Diver Down and 1984.

Van Halen – who the Los Angeles Times recently called “a force of nature” and “one of the flat-out greatest rock bands on the planet” – was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in March of 2007.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1974, Van Halen changed the rock and roll landscape forever with the release of their self-titled, 1978 debut album displaying unparalleled stage presence, revolutionary musicianship, and extraordinary songwriting abilities. With more than 75 million albums sold worldwide, the band's record of achievement is hard to top. Among a long list of awards, recognition and accolades, Van Halen joins an elite short list of two time Diamond Award honorees in the history of the music industry. Presented with two Diamond Award RIAA Certified Status' for their albums Van Halenand 1984, the band has produced a repertoire of hits that remain some of the strongest and most influential rock songs ever written that fans will admire for decades to come.

Kool & The Gang found a special sound at the unique intersection of jazz, R&B, funk and pop. Their music has been created by the same core of players for over thirty years: Robert "Kool" Bell, his brother Khalis Bayyan, their longtime friends Dennis "DT" Thomas and George "Funky" Brown.

VIP Packages will also be available through VIP Nation, including premium seats, exclusive merchandise and more. For more information please visit: www.VIPNation.com

VAN HALEN 2012 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES:

Date City Venue On Sale Date

2/18/12 Louisville, KY KFC Yum! Center January 16

2/20/12 Detroit, MI The Palace of Auburn Hills January 14

2/22/12 Indianapolis, IN Bankers Life Fieldhouse January 14

2/24/12 Chicago, IL United Center January 14

2/28/12 New York, NY Madison Square Garden January 14

3/1/12 New York, NY Madison Square Garden January 14

3/3/12 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena January 14

3/5/12 Philadelphia, PA Wells Fargo Center January 14

3/9/12 Buffalo, NY First Niagara Center January 14

3/11/12 Boston, MA TD Garden January 14

3/15/12 Montreal, QC Bell Centre January 14

3/17/12 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre January 14

3/21/12 Ottawa, ON Scotiabank Place January 14

3/24/12 Atlantic City, NJ Boardwalk Hall TBA

3/28/12 Washington, DC Verizon Center January 14

3/30/12 Pittsburgh, PA Consol Energy Center January 14

4/1/12 Rosemont, IL Allstate Arena January 14

4/10/12 Fort Lauderdale, FL BankAtlantic Center TBA

4/12/12 Tampa, FL St. Pete Times Forum TBA

4/14/12 Orlando, FL Amway Arena TBA

4/16/12 Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville Arena TBA

4/19/12 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena TBA

4/21/12 Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum TBA

4/25/12 Charlotte, NC Time Warner Cable Arena TBA

4/27/12 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena TBA

5/1/12 Tulsa, OK BOK Center TBA

5/5/12 Tacoma, WA Tacoma Dome TBA

5/7/12 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena TBA

5/9/12 Calgary, AB Scotiabank Saddledome TBA

5/11/12 Edmonton, AB Rexall Place TBA

5/17/12 Winnipeg, MB MTS Centre TBA

5/19/12 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center TBA

5/22/12 Kansas City, MO Sprint Center TBA

5/24/12 Denver, CO Pepsi Center TBA

5/27/12 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena TBA

6/1/12 Los Angeles, CA STAPLES Center TBA

6/3/12 Oakland, CA Oracle Arena TBA

6/5/12 San Jose, CA HP Pavilion TBA

6/12/12 Anaheim, CA Honda Center TBA

6/14/12 San Diego, CA Viejas Arena TBA

6/16/12 Phoenix, AZ US Airways Center TBA

6/20/12 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center TBA

6/22/12 San Antonio, TX AT&T Center TBA

6/24/12 Houston, TX Toyota Center TBA

6/26/12 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena TBA

Van Halen Hits The Road!!

2011-12-26T11:23:00.002-07:00

VAN HALEN has released a video trailer confirming that it will tour later in the year, with the first tickets scheduled to go on sale on January 10. The two-minute clip (see below) — which was shot on November 14 at The Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood, California — apparently features visuals of the VAN HALEN bandmembers performing a brand new song (taken from the yet-to-be-released track's official video) set to the audio of several David Lee Roth-era VAN HALEN classics.

VAN HALEN's new record deal with Interscope was finalized last month and marks the first time the band has recorded away from Warner Bros. Records, which signed the group in 1977.

The new VAN HALEN album, its first with Roth since "1984" was released on the last day of 1983, will reportedly come out in 2012, possibly in February (as the graphic below seems to suggest).

Guillermo's top 5 of 2011

2011-12-22T13:15:00.022-07:00

Another year has come and gone, we saw lot's of new CD and DVD releases, some good, some not so good. let's just hope that 2012 is more of a metal year, because the "artists" that are popular today just make my skin crawl, don't wanna mention any names...GaGa...anyways, I hope you had a great 2011, and I hope you have an even better 2012. so here's my top 5 of 2011.

Number 5 AC/DC Live At River Plate

It's my only dvd on the list, this David Mallet directed DVD showcased the band in Buenos Aires after a 13 year absence, and this crowd was on fire through the entire show. I couldn't stop talking about this dvd when it first came out.

Number 4 King Kobra

2011 brought a new release by King Kobra, always been a favorite band of mine, and I had thought this band was history, till 2011 came around, with a revamped line up consisting of Paul Shortino - vocals
David Michael-Philips - Guitar
Mick Sweda - Guitar
Johnny Rod - Bass Guitar
Carmine Appice - drums
the band release a rocking cd, and with Paul Shortino's vocals, the songs were given a classic whitesnake vibe.

Number 3 Hemoptysis -Misanthropic Slaughter

In 2011 I discovered the band Hemoptysis, and they produced some of the finest thrash metal I have heard in ages. the album was called "Misanthropic Slaughter" fronted by singer and guitarist Masaki Murashita, who's voice reminds me of Kreator's lead singer Mille Petrozza, I expect huge things from this band in the future.

Number 2 Aceept - Blood Of The Nations

Accept is a band that never lets me down, so it was no surprise that the band's 12th studio album would rock. It was also band's first studio recording since 1996's Predator and the first album to feature vocalist Mark Tornillo, who fits in very well with the band. with songs like "Teutonic Terror" and "Pandemic" Blood Of The Nations is a classic.

Number 1 Anthrax - Worship Music

The day I first heard this CD, I knew it would go down as my number 1 pick for 2011. It is their first album of original material since 2003's We've Come for You All and the first to feature Joey Belladonna on vocals since 1990's Persistence of Time. when you listen to Joey Belladonna singing on this release, you would have thought he'd never left the band, all is right in the world of Anthrax right now. I would imagine that this CD will be on many year end lists for 2011.

JT's Top 5 Hard Rock Albums Of 2011

2011-12-19T04:29:00.000-07:00

Well here we are folks! Once again it's that time of year where I let the world in on my Top 5 Hard Rock albums for the year. The year started off with a bang, but ended kinda lack luster. There were quite a few heavy hitters putting out albums this year at the beginning and a few in the middle of the year, but here towards the end... eh, not so much. What did surprise me this year though was the quality of the albums that had been released this year. There weren't too many stinkers that I reviewed this time around. Of coarse as good as that may seem to some, it sure does make it tough for me at this time of year when I have to choose my top 5. So, I do like I do every year! I make a list of everything I've reviewed, and some that I didn't review and I start making a top 20 list. From there I take the top 5 and post them here at Loud Reviews. With bands like Whitesnake, Mr. Big, Journey, Stryper and Night Ranger all releasing good albums this year, it was very hard for me to narrow this all down. Hell, even Alice Cooper came back with a decent album this year! So with out further lip service, here are my Top 5 Hard Rock Albums Of 2011!

5. Within Temptation - The Unforgiving

This was an album that just came outta nowhere for me. As you know, back in July of this year, I started doing my own podcast on the Spreaker Internet Radio Network. I wanted to do a show that showcased the Ladies of Hard Rock. Some of my own thoughts on this, I also accepted outside sources for help with that show. A good friend of mine that I work with suggested I look into this band! I got the surprise of the year that I wasn't expecting with this group! Great melodic sound and great song writing all the way around here, this latest release came out earlier in the spring of this year. This is one you should not pass on! You'll love every second of it!

4. Uriah Heep - Into The Wild

This was also a band that kinda hit me outta nowhere this year! Veteran rockers Uriah Heep hit a slam dunk with their release "Into The Wild". With tunes like "Nail On The Head" and "I Can See You" leading off this effort, it's easy to understand why I chose it to be in my top 5. Classic Hard Rock doesn't get any better than this kids!

3. Journey - Eclipse

Uriah Heep were not the only Classic Rockers giving it a go this year. A revitalized Journey put out a stunning effort with "Eclipse". Believe me, if you don't have this album, you should! Journey really came into their own with this one and in my opinion, put out one of the best albums of their long storied career here! Arnell never sounded better than he does here and the band actually put a set of songs together that didn't sound like past tunes from past albums! There was actually some originality here for once! Good to see Journey back in the game!

2. Whitesnake - Forevermore

Sounding better than ever, David Coverdale and Co. returned this year with "Forevermore"! Another strong effort from David and the boys, it embodied once again the sounds from every point in this bands long career, without sounding rehashed! Although not better than 2008's "Bad To Be Good" album, it does tie it for one of the bands best. This is another one you should have if you already don't!

And coming in at Number One on my Top 5 Albums Of 2011 is.....

1. Mr. Big - What If...

Finally, after a number of albums, some infighting and a vow never to perform together again, Mr. Big finally decided to get their shit together and put out the best album not only of the year in my opinion, but of their career! There are solid rockers on here as well as some sweet sounding ballads on here that only these guys could ever pull off and make work! Mr. Big come in at Number 1 on my Top 5 Albums Of 2011!

Well, there you have it kids! Hope next year is just as good or better! Till then, "Rock On America"... and the world!!!

Posted by: JT

SOULFLY/CAVALERA CONSPIRACY Guitarist MARC RIZZO Announces Solo Tour

2011-12-16T19:16:00.002-07:00

Guitarist Marc Rizzo of CAVALERA CONSPIRACY and SOULFLY fame has announced several northeast solo dates In the US and Canada this winter.

Aside from the solo dates, Rizzo will also perform in the west coast with Soulfly later this year and tour Australia with Cavalera Conspiracy in 2012. These dates mark the first time that Rizzo will perform in Canada as a solo artist.

Here is a list of Rizzo’s scheduled solo dates:

December
23 - The Blue Room - Secaucus, NJ

January
6 - Bogies - Albany, NY
7 - Broadway Joes - Buffalo, NY
8 - Hard Luck - Toronto, ON
10 - Agitée - Quebec City, QC
13 - The Dover Brickhouse - Dover, NH
14 - Watts Hall - Thomaston, ME

Rizzo will be Matt O'Shaughnessy's special guest tonight, Friday, December 16th at 7:45 PM exclusively on 1460 AM and WVOX.com worldwide, talking about his big upcoming solo concert at The Blue Room Lounge in Secaucus, New Jersey on December 23rd.

Known for his frequent jump-kicks during live performances, Rizzo has appeared on four Soulfly albums to date: Prophecy, Conquer, Dark Ages, and Omen. He has also released three instrumental albums and is also a member of Cavalera Conspiracy who released their latest album this year - Blunt Force Trauma.

At 9:10pm, WVOX welcomes New Jersey thrash metal masters ASHES OF YOUR ENEMY who will feature tracks from their latest album, Anthem, and take calls from their fans at 914-636-0110.

RED FANG Announces European Tour With Mastodon

2011-12-16T19:02:00.002-07:00

Having just wrapped up their highly successful North American run with Mastodon, RED FANG has confirmed that they will be heading to Europe this Winter with Mastodon. RED FANG will be providing direct support on the tour which kicks off January 10th in Finland and will conclude February 10th in Birmingham, England.

The band commented on the upcoming run:

"The US tour we just did with those guys was one of the best ever so we are thrilled to be continuing this magical journey with Mastodon in Europe!"

The band recently finished work on a new video for the song "Hank Is Dead" with director extraordinaire, Whitey McConnaughy. Look for the video to premiere very soon. Stills from the video shoot can be seen HERE.

RED FANG are streaming Murder The Mountains in its entirety at this location. The band recorded Murder The Mountains with THE DECEMBERISTS' Chris Funk and the album was mixed by three-time Grammy Award winner Vance Powell (WHITE STRIPES, THE RACONTEURS). Murder The Mountains is now available on CD, 12" vinyl, and deluxe digital. The album is available via Relapse HERE and on iTunes HERE

RED FANG is available for interviews upon request. To speak with the band, please contact the relevant publicity contact listed below. Updated RED FANG news and tour information will be made available at the Relapse Records website, the RED FANG Facebook and RED FANG Official Site.

RED FANG EUROPEAN TOUR WITH MASTODON
1/11 FIN, Tampere Pakkahuone
1/12 FIN, Helsinki Circus
1/14 SWE, Stockholm The Annex
1/15 NOR, Oslo Sentrum Stage
1/16 DEN, Copenhagen VEGA
1/17 DEN, Aarhus Voxhall
1/19 BEL, Brussels Encienne Belgique
1/20 FRA, Paris Le Bataclan
1/22 POR, Lisbon Coliseum
1/23 SPA, Madrid Joy Slava
1/ 24 SPA, Barcelona Razzmatazz
1/26 ITA, Milan venue tba
1/28 SWI, Zurich Xtra
1/29 GER, Frankfurt Batschkapp
1/30 GER, Munich Backstage Halle
1/31 GER, Berlin C-Club
2/2 GER, Cologne Essigfabrik
2/3 HOL, Tilburg 013
2/5 ENG, Bristol Academy
2/6 ENG, Manchester Academy
2/7 SCO, Glasgow Barrowland
2/9 Norwich, UEA
2/10 ENG, Birmingham Institute
2/11 ENG, London Brixton Academy

YNGWIE MALMSTEEN Honored By SHARPIE

2011-12-14T12:53:00.001-07:00

Legendary Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen was recently honored by Sharpie — a manufacturer of writing instruments (mainly marker pens) whose products are sold in over 20 countries.

Sharpie president Ben J. Gadbois, who did the honors, had this to say: "I have followed Yngwie since high school and am a huge fan."

He added, "It was fantastic to meet one of the greatest guitar players of all time and talk about music and several of our common interests. It was also an honor to present Yngwie with his own personalized Sharpies. It means a lot that he chooses our markers to sign autographs. He's definitely made an indelible mark on music, and in some small way, we hope Sharpie has helped him make a lasting impressions with his fans."

Released on November 22, 2010 via Malmsteen's own Rising Force Records, Yngwie's latest album, "Relentless", contains more than 60 minutes of brand new material and showcases the guitar great at his best with the signature virtuosity and mind-blowing technical speed for which he has come to be known. "Relentless" also features striking vocals from Tim "Ripper" Owens (JUDAS PRIEST, ICED EARTH), who first collaborated with Malmsteen on "Perpetual Flame" (Malmsteen's first album for the Rising Force Records label).

Of the new album, Malmsteen commented, "The album title really says it all. The drive to surpass my own accomplishments can best be described with one word — relentless. After all these years of composing and playing music, I still am passionate about pushing myself to the limit — to the highest, most demanding level of playing possible."

Madam Trashy - Book Of Dead review

2011-12-13T14:26:00.008-07:00

As soon as I heard the name of the band, I thought the music would sound like something right out of the 80's, then I see a photo of the band, and realized I was way off on that one, I press play on my player, and I hear sounds of grunge, progressive, and stoner rock, which make a great combination. the first song "Weary Breath" sounds as if Alice & Chains had gone stoner rock. it's probably my favorite song off the 7 song CD. the 2nd song which is called "In The Dark" reminded me a little of The Red Hot Chili Peppers, mixed in with the band Kyuss.

For their debut album “Book of Dead”, Madam Trashy recruited legendary producer and mixer Jack Endino (Nirvana) other standout songs are "Book Of Dead" which contain some tasty guitar licks, "In Sleep" it's a moody slower song, yet still heavy. and "Building Song" this is an all around great release from this 3 piece band. I suggest you check them out www.facebook.com/madamtrashy and you can download their album here www.madamtrashy.bandcamp.com/
Review by Guillermo
5/5*****

Lamb of God release new song online

2011-12-05T17:23:00.002-07:00

Lamb of God's new album, Resolution, drops on January 24. In anticipation, they’ve released a new song “Ghost Walking” online

Primal Fear release new music video

2011-12-05T15:47:00.001-07:00

NEW ALBUM "UNBREAKABLE" IN STORES JANUARY 24th IN NORTH AMERICA ON FRONTIERS RECORDS

German power metal legends PRIMAL FEAR are gearing up for the release of their new album "Unbreakable" this January. Recently the band shot a video in Nurnberg, Germany for the song "Bad Guys Wear Black". Today the video is being premiered on Frontiers' Records official YouTube Channel. Watch it HERE.

"Unbreakable" combines the skills of the strongest PRIMAL FEAR line-up ever, with a well-balanced "back to the roots" vibe and an ambitious learning process that took place during their longest tour so far. Classic and ultra-fresh PRIMAL FEAR riff-rockers like "Strike", "Give Em Hell" or the high speed track "And There Was Silence" will hit the bulls-eye, like the rhythm paced metal anthem, first single and new video clip "Bad Guys Wear Black". Less experiments, more rock! But there will be a nine-minute epic journey with prog approach named "Where Angels Die", a classic wonderful ballad "Born Again" and the melodic power bomb "Metal Nation". Singer Ralf Scheepers adds: "the plan was to record an album for the fans with rough metal riffs, screaming vocals and good melodies ...... and finally it became a monster - a tough 'bang-your-head' metal album called "Unbreakable".

Magnus Karlsson and Alex Beyrodt are worldwide respected guitarists - together they are unbeatable! Ralf Scheepers vocal performance shines brightly on a new level on the new album. And what can go wrong if you're backed by one of the best rhythm sections in metal with Randy Black and Mat Sinner? Plus backing vocals by the "Fantastic Four": Ralf Scheepers, Mat Sinner, Erik Martensson and Oliver Hartmann. You can hear the results on Primal Fears new statement called "Unbreakable"!

"Unbreakable" was produced by Mat Sinner, engineered and mixed by Achim Koehler at the House Of Music studios and some more studios in Germany & Sweden between the summer and autumn of 2011 and will include the following tracks:

Unbreakable (Part1)
Strike; Give 'Em Hell
Bad Guys Wear Black
And There Was Silence
Metal Nation; Where Angels Die
Unbreakable (Part 2)
Marching Again
Born Again
Blaze Of Glory
Conviction; Night Of The Jumps (Bonus Track)*
Bad Guys Wear Black (Video)*

* Only available in the first pressing in digipak

Primal Fear Lineup
Ralf Scheepers - Vocals
Alex Beyrodt - Guitars
Magnus Karlsson - Guitar, Keyboards
Randy Black - Guitars
Mat Sinner - Bass & Vocals

KISS Set To Release "Monster" And A Few Other Surprises Late Spring Of 2012

2011-12-05T04:21:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know already, KISS started recording for a new album in April of this year. The album was originaly supposed to be released later in the year, but got pushed back to an early 2012 release, supposedly to coincide with the release of a new DVD release, KISSOLOGY 4, the latest in the KISSOLOGY series. Paul Stanly has reported that the album cover for the new album, tentativly titled "Monster", will look similar to their 1976 album, "Destroyer", but with the use of a different artist.

But don't think that this band has not been busy folks. They have spent the entire Summer touring the U.S. and Canada on what they called "The Lost Cities Tour". The tour hit cities in both countries that they band rarely or has never visited before. Not to mention they have done a "KISS Kruise" this last October, and are reportedly working on another KISS Kruise for 2012. There will also be a 100 city tour to support "Monster" and not to mention there may also be another 10 hour long DVD to go along with the release of "Monster" as well as a 4 foot tall book, all set for a June 2012 release. The album itself is also rumored to contain 15 new studio tracks, all written by the band themselves. Looks like 2012 will be a busy year for our favorite masked rockers!

Don't forget to listen to my Eric Carr Tribute Show on "Rock On America"! You can listen in here:

http://spreaker.com/show/rock_on_america_1

Posted by: JT

Beggars & Thieves Return With "We Are The Brokenhearted"

2011-11-18T04:34:00.000-07:00

Artist: Beggars & Thieves

Album: We Are The Brokenhearted

Release: Dec. 2, 2011

Rating: ***

Beggars & Thieves are a band that's been around in the Melodic Rock world for the last twenty some years. That being said, I really would have thought that this album would have been better than average. Not that being average is bad, but in this day in age, being an older band, you really want to put out the best product that you can. I'm not so sure that this band has done that here with this effort. The album opens at a medium pace and pretty much maintains that and at times, is even a little slower than that. Don't get me wrong, I love ballads just as much as the next guy, but at some point, you need to step away from them and get to some serious rockin'! And on this release, that is sorely lacking. There is really nothing here that is at all... well... rockin'! The last few newer Melodic Rock bands I've listened to have a mixed bag of material on their albums, which makes them pretty damn good. How does this album compare? Well, it's kinda slow to be honest. In fact, the opening cut, "We Come Undone", is probably the best cut on the album. The rest are just... well... there. Fans of this band may say otherwise, and that's fine. But for me, this is a very lack luster album. Very hard for me to get into. The musicianship here is very good, the Production is great. But the songwriting is sorely lacking here. Even the lyrics to these songs just kinda hang there waiting for someone to come along and just make them wonderful. And for a veteran band of this calibur, this day and age that's a dangerous thing. You have to be on your game now or others will run you over. Long time fans will want this album in their collection for sure. Everyone else, I'd start with some of their older releases first before listening to this one to get a good grasp on what this band can really do.

Reviewed by: JT

ACCEPT ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM TITLE!

2011-11-16T14:10:00.002-07:00

Reformed German heavy metal legends ACCEPT has issued the following update:

“It’s always quiet just before the storm!!!! ACCEPT’s fifteen year break from the music business only served as a distant warning to the 2010 thunderous return of ACCEPT to the metal forefront. Sweat- soaked, table-sized club shows and triumphant appearances at the biggest rock festivals around the world created an excitement long not seen in the metal community.

It was only natural that ACCEPT’s comeback album Blood Of The Nations entered the [German] charts at #4, the band’s highest entry in their legendary career! In addition, Blood Of The Nations charted high in countless other countries and cemented itself at #1 in many Reader Polls for a continuous 14 months! Accolades like “Album of the Year,” “Metal Anthem of the Year” and many more kept pouring in. The fans, in admiration of their heroes, flocked in the thousands to their notorious live shows, and Nuclear Blast, their record company, was salivating with satisfaction!

“Inspired by their fans’ awe-inspiring reaction to their explosive live shows as well as the grandiose success of the comeback album, the band is now excited to jump right back into the studio and record another collection of heavy metal classics. To be called Stalingrad, the new ACCEPT album is scheduled to be released via Nuclear Blast Records in the Spring of 2012. It will once again be produced by English star producer Andy Sneap who has long become a part of the ACCEPT family.

“As the saying goes… no rest for the wicked! Following the release of Stalingrad, ACCEPT will continue their unstoppable, Teutonic terror in 2012 and beyond, invading stages from North to South, from East to West, leaving all non-believers in their metallic dust!”

Disturbed "The Lost Children" Review

2011-11-12T23:29:00.004-07:00

I have to give it up to Disturbed, they truly cater to their fans. they've made 5 albums, and they all pretty much sound the same, and it seems to be a good formula, over 13 million albums sold, and 4 of the 5 releases have held the #1 spot on billboard. so its 2011, and the band are going on a hiatus, how long, we do not know, but before they do, they released "The Lost Children" a collection of B-sides, and 2 covers. even though these songs didn't make the cut on earlier albums for one reason or another, they sound very good. they all have that trademark David Drainman singing style, and those choppy guitar riffs we've all come to know. there are some standout songs on this release, such as "A Welcome Burden" "Hell" "Monster" and "3" The Disturbed are known for their cover songs, and on this release, we have "Living After Midnight" from Judas Priest, they don't stray from the original at all, and "Midlife Crisis" from Faith No More, Drainman's vocals on this really work well, almost as if the song had been meant for him. all in all, Disturbed fans will love it, if you aren't a fan, then its the same old same old for you.

Track Listing
1. Hell
2. A Welcome Burden
3. This Moment
4. Old Friend
5. Monster
6. Run
7. Leave It Alone
8. Two Worlds
9. God of the Mind
10. Sickened
11. Mine
12. Parasite
13. Dehumanized
14. 3
15. Midlife Crisis (Faith No More cover)
16. Living After Midnight (Judas Priest cover)

4/5
Review by Guillermo

Black Sabbath Announce Album and World Tour

2011-11-11T13:16:00.002-07:00

Veteran British rock band Black Sabbath said on Friday they are reuniting in their original four man line-up for a new album and a world tour.

The band, which recorded its last studio album of all original material in 1978, told a Los Angeles news conference they would perform at the Download Festival in England in June 2012, and then embark on a world tour.

Guitarist Tommy Iommi, singer Ozzy Osbourne, bass player Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward first got together in 1969. After a revolving line-up for a number of years they got back together for the 1998 album "Reunion" but split again afterward.

Rumors of a possible reunion of the English metal band, which has sold over 70 million albums, have been swirling for months

CHIMAIRA Guitarists Quit

2011-11-10T13:11:00.002-07:00

Vocalist Mark Hunter of Cleveland, Ohio metallers CHIMAIRA has released the following statement:

"I would like to start off by thanking our fans for a great tour. This last run was a blast, and truly the most fun we’ve had in a long while. The energy from the audience was exactly what we needed, and a welcoming return. Thank you, guys!

"Unfortunately, as much fun as we were having, behind the scenes we were aware of some unfortunate realities that prevented us from 'living the dream' and having the time of our lives. We had another bomb to drop on the fans.

"Early in July, we were informed that Rob Arnold [guitar] and Matt DeVries [guitar] would be leaving CHIMAIRA at the end of 2011. Of course, this was a huge blow, but there were no hard feelings. We understand that life invades art, everything runs its course, and we have to take different paths. We respect their decision and wish them only the best. We made heavy metal history together and that is all that matters at the end of the day. 'Chimaira Christmas 12' will be their last show, and we've been preparing to make it one that you'll never forget.

"I would personally like to thank Rob and Matt for all of their hard work, years of service to CHIMAIRA, amazing songs, and for their friendship. Together we built something special that will remain for generations to come.

"I'm looking forward to spending another five weeks on the road with two of the best (and criminally underrated) guitarists in modern metal.

You didn't like the Lou Reed Metallica colab? this might make you feel better

2011-11-09T15:18:00.001-07:00

Electric Boys Makin' A Comeback with "And Them Boys Done Swang"

2011-11-07T04:33:00.000-07:00

Artist: Electric Boys

Album: And Them Boys Done Swang

Released: March, 2011

Rating: ****

Yep, those Funk Metal boys are back! Of coarse I'm talkin' about none other than the Electric Boys! With their newest effort called "And Them Boys Done Swang", it marks the fourth album from the band who just recently reunited about a year and a half ago for this release. The band is probably best known here in the U.S. for it's album "Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride" and the single from it called "Lips N' Hips", a tune that forever set the tone for me to get into these Funk Metal masters. If you've never heard that song, then it's time you searched it out and gave it a listen. I'm more than sure you'll dig it as much as I do! The Electric Boys formed in Sweden in 1988 and released their first album here in the U.S. in 1990. Although "Lips N' Hips" only reached #72 here on the Billboard charts, this funky little band from Sweden still had, and still does have quite the Cult following here. They may not be the chart busters here that they thought they would be, but they do okay here. There was one more album released by the Electric Boys after that, but with Grunge coming in and taking things over, they didn't stand a chance here. The band broke up never to be heard from again... until now!

With the recent uprising of Sleaze bands coming from Sweden lately, it's no surprise that the Electric Boys decided to give it another go around. After all, no one mixes Funk and Hard Rock, as well as Sleaze, better than the Electric Boys! This new album sure does prove that! "And Them Boys Done Swang" is the Electric Boys at their Funk Metal best! The classic line up is here as well as that classic Electric Boys sound that is unmistakable. As the opening cut, "Reeferlord" proclaims: "Lordy Mama how them boys done swang"! That cut not only has a bit o' groove to it, but it also mixes in Hard Rock too and rips your face off right at the start! It only gets better from there as the Electric Boys start to let you know why they are here. The tunes get better and better as you continue to listen to this album.

Stand Out Cuts? Well it's hard for me to single out just a handful. This whole album is really a testament to what this band is all about. You either like a little Funk mixed in with your Hard Rock, or you don't. I tend to like a little Funk mixed in now and then! It definitely keeps things interesting and moving along! What's changed about the Electric Boys? Nothing really. They've just gotten older, and along with age, better! "And Them Boys Done Swang" is a definite "Must Have" for any Hard Rock enthusiast and any Electric Boys fan, period! Your gonna dig this! No pun intended.

Reviewed By: JT

Gwar Guitarist Cory Smoot Found Dead

2011-11-03T13:29:00.002-07:00

Gwar guitarist Cory Smoot (aka Flattus Maximus) was found dead by his band members this morning (November 03rd) while on tour. Band frontman Dave Brockie (aka Oderus Urungus) issued the following statement to Metal Sucks:

“It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of GWAR must announce the passing of their long time guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot, also known to thousands of metal fans worldwide as Flattus Maximus. Cory was found deceased this morning as the band prepared for a border crossing. There is no word as to the cause of death and the members of GWAR are completely shocked and devastated that this has occurred.

At this point there is no word on arrangements and the disposition of the remainder of GWAR’s current North American tour, nor are there any details regarding long term plans. At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today. We ask that our fans and the media be respectful of our request for privacy for those that have suffered this terrible loss.

A full statement will be coming in the next day or so, in the meantime please give your thoughts and your prayers to Cory, his family, and all the people that love him.

-Dave Brockie-”

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY Signs To Candlelight Records Album Planned For Early 2012 Release

2011-10-31T12:21:00.002-07:00

Candlelight Records today proudly announces the worldwide signing of Corrosion Of Conformity. Since early this year, the band -- featuring the esteemed Animosity line-up of vocalist/bassist Mike Dean, guitarist Woody Weatherman, and drummer/vocalist Reed Mullin -- has been working with long-time producer John Custer. Now nearly complete, their still untitled eighth studio album is planned for release early in the New Year.

Gathering last summer to jam as a trio for the first time in over a decade, the treasured threesome quickly rekindled the magic that originally united and ultimately bound the musicians on a journey that today continues to impress both fans and critics. It is the efforts of this line-up that Decibel Magazine recently called “a crucial stylistic lynchpin in the bridge between metal and punk. CORROSION OF CONFORMITY irrevocably reshaped crossover’s sonic possibilities.” AllMusic.com notes, ”C.O.C. weren’t following any trends. They just incorporated all the things they liked about thrash, punk and ’70s metal originators Black Sabbath into their constantly evolving sound. It secured them artistic and commercial credibility.”

Candlelight’s Steve Beatty says of the signing, “Animosity is one of my favorite records ever. To have C.O.C. on Candlelight with that line-up is simply mouth-watering. I saw the band in London recently and they did not disappoint. This hungry child can’t wait for the record.” Candlelight’s Edward Christie adds, “we are extremely excited to welcome the band to the label and are looking forward to an amazing album. We are all huge fans and this is truly a memorable day for all of us.”

The band shares the excitement the immediate future holds. Woody Weatherman comments, "writing and recording this new record as a three-piece has been a blast. Having Reed back in the fold with Mike and I brings it around full circle. I'm really looking forward to all that lies ahead this upcoming year."

Reed Mullen adds, “Mike, Woody and I essentially learned how to play music together and cultivated our own style, sound, and unspoken language. Re-bonding with them musically has been the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me.”

In addition to intense work on the album, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY has kept busy in 2011 touring throughout the US and abroad. One of the main attractions at this year’s Maryland Death Festival, the band mesmerized a salivating capacity audience. Sean Palmerston, editor for Canada’s online magazine Hellbound, said, “I lapped this set up. It was like the tastiest comfort food after a hard day’s work. I haven’t listened to those classic C.O.C. albums in a long, long time. It put a smile on my face.”

Mike Dean says of the new songs, “we have been overdubbing vocals and guitars in between our live dates for the better part of a year. Now it's time to mix. The process we started back in April is finally coming to fruition. The results should reflect all eras of the band's existence filtered through our current reality. This is a beast we can't wait to set free."

Formed in Raleigh, North Carolina in 1982, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY quickly transformed heavy music. Politically charged and socially aware, the band has influenced countless others and today remains humble about their accomplishments. With over 1.1 million albums sold in the United States alone, the new album will be their first since 2005’s In The Arms Of God. On release, Billboard Magazine called the album a “riff-fueled set that ranks with (the band’s) best work.”

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY will perform with Danzig tonight at the Gibson Ampitheater in Los Angeles. The band’s final performances for 2011 will be alongside Clutch December 27 through 31. Tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster and venue box offices.

12/27/2011 House of Blues - Boston MA
12/28/2011 State Theater - Portland ME
12/29/2011 Westcott Theater - Syracuse NY
12/30/2011 Starland Ballroom - Sayreville NJ
12/31/2011 Trocadero Theater - Philadelphia PA

Paul Stanley undergoes vocal cord surgery

2011-10-26T16:38:00.002-07:00

KISS lead singer Paul Stanley underwent successful surgery for "recurring vocal cord issues" Tuesday that the musician said Wednesday "come with 40 years of preaching rock 'n' roll."

His doctors say Stanley, who's been touring and recording with KISS for nearly 40 years, will make a "swift and complete" recovery, according to a statement from his publicist.

"I hold myself to a higher standard than others do," Stanley said. "With that in mind, I wanted to remedy a few minor issues that come with 40 years of preaching rock 'n' roll."

Stanley, 59, is known for his energetic -- and loud -- shows as front man and guitarist for legendary hard rock group.

KISS, one of the longest-running rock acts, stays busy on the road and in the studio. Stanley is producing "Monster," their 20th studio album due out in 2012 as they embark on another global tour

Are you ready for Animetal USA?

2011-10-17T14:22:00.005-07:00

So it turns out that Animetal was a Japanese heavy metal band who specialized in metal covers of popular Japanese anime theme songs. but now we have Animetal USA, an American version of Animetal, which have released their first album "Animetal USA" on October 12. through Sony Music Japan. plans for a Japan/USA tour are in the works

Animetal Japan was formed by a famed metal vocalist Eizo Sakamoto (Anthem) in 1996. and had other famous japanese members in the band. They had released 11 metal cover albums and had sold more than 600,000 copies till 2006 when they went on hiatus.

The newly formed Animetal USA' s members are all experienced heavy metal musicians, which include former vocalist for Loudness, Mike Vescera, guitarist Chris Impellitteri, bassist Rudy Sarzo formally of Quiet Riot/Whitesnake/Ozzy, and drummer Scott Travis of Judas Priest. and the mastermind behind all this, ex-guitarist from Megadeth Marty Friedman

the release includes songs:

"Space Battleship Yamato"

"Science Ninja Team Gatchaman"

"Kyojin no Hoshi"

"Tiger Mask"

"Mazinger Z"

"Dragon Ball"

"Hokuto no Ken (Fist of the North Star)"

"Kinnikuman"

"Saint Seiya"

"Neon Genesis Evangelion"

ANIMETALUSA - UCHUUSENKAN YAMATO from 921 Associates on Vimeo.

Reckless Love Are Back Lookin' For That "Animal Attraction"

2011-10-11T03:34:00.000-07:00

Artist: Reckless Love

Album: Animal Attraction

Released: 2011

Rating: ****

Their back! After putting out an "Okay" debut last year, Reckless Love have returned with their Sophomore effort called "Animal Attraction" and have come out swingin' folks! Believe me when I tell you that I am going to really have a tough time trying to pick my Top 10 for the end of the year because this one is sure to be in the running! If you listened to my latest Podcast, then you heard a cut off of this album called "Dance". And if you haven't heard it yet, then you need to go to Spreaker.com right now and search for "Rock On America" to listen in and hear this tune! Or, just cheat and go here:
http://spreaker.com/show/rock_on_america_1 and listen in to this show to hear the tune. Your going to love it! In fact, your going to love this whole album!

If you have the first album, then you know that it wasn't bad for a first effort, but there was still some work to be done with these guys. Well I'd say that they've learned a lot in the last year and have really gotten to the point where they gel pretty good together. The band is definitely sounding pretty damn tight this time around and the music shows it! THIS is what Sleaze Rock is all about right here folks! This album just drips with Sleaze! Things do start out a little slow in the beginning of the album with the title cut, "Animal Attraction", which is an okay tune. Not really what I would have started the album with, but hey, you definitely get what your looking for as this album goes on! There is one tune, however, that I think may have been a leftover from the debut, and should have probably stayed a left over and that's the tune called "Hot". Yeah, that one could have stayed on the shelf and is probably the only song that I would call filler here. The rest is pretty damn good.

This time around the songs are better crafted and like I said earlier on, the band sounds tight as hell here on this album! Standout Cuts include: Speedin', Born To Break Your Heart, Fantasy, Dance, Fight and Young N' Crazy which is a UK bonus cut if you pick up a copy of the UK version. You gotta have this one kids! Great stuff here! I can't wait to see what they can do next!

Reviewed By: JT

Chickenfoot Are Back With "Chickenfoot III"

2011-10-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

Artist: Chickenfoot

Album: Chickenfoot III

Released: 2011

Rating: *** 1/2

Yup, they are back again folks! Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani and Micheal Anthony, collectively known as Chickenfoot, return with "Chickenfoot III". Forgive me for a moment, but I can't understand why this album is called their third, when they've only released one studio album. Drives me crazy when bands do this stuff. You put out an album and call it, let's say II. Then you put out a live album and call it something else. Now to me, the live album should not count against the studio discography because, well, it's not a studio album! So why after doing the live album would you skip to call your next studio album IV? Maybe it's just my OCD kicking in, but that drives me absolutely nuts! Okay, I feel better and my little rant is over. Now let's get to this review, shall we!

If you recall, I reviewed this bands debut. And if you also remember, I said that the album wasn't bad, but with the caliber of talent involved, it could have been a hell of a lot better than it was. So here they are with their newest studio slab and well... it's probably one step above the debut. The musicianship is there, the songs are decently crafted, but still not what I was hoping to hear from this Super Group. In fact, with the material they've been releasing, it's kinda hard to call them a Super anything. They are just... well... average. And I don't know about you, but that's really disappointing. With the Sophomore effort, I was really expecting great things here and it's just not here. It's just... average. Why does it bother me so? Well, I know that by himself, Sammy is fucking incredible! Joe by himself is also... fucking incredible! And Micheal Anthony, well do I really need to say it!? But something funny happens when you get the three of these guys together. They just can't seem to grab you like they can on their own. Could it be that you've got three guys here that are so damn good that they just kinda cancel each other out?? I don't know. It still remains a mystery to me. Or maybe it's a case of one doesn't want to even try to over power the other? Whatever the case, I know what these guys are capable of and it's just not happening here for some reason. Now, it's not to say that there are not hints of greatness here again, because there are moments where that does happen! But those moments seem to be few and far between. Once again, I'm a little let down by this band. I'm about ready to give up on them.

At any rate, I did give them *** 1/2 stars because it still is a decently average album. Like I said, the tunes are decently crafted and the musicianship is still pretty good and the production once again is top notch. I'm just really not overly impressed because I know these guys can put something out that could just blow this away. There are, however, a few Standout Cuts that are pretty damn good: Last Temptation, which starts the album off, Three And A Half Letters, which really hit home for me and is sure to do the same for others as well, and Something Goin' Wrong. Other than these three songs the rest of the album leaves a little to be desired. Is this album a must have? Not really. But if your into collecting Super Group albums, then you might want this in your collection. If there is another Chickenfoot album, hopefully it will far beat out the first two efforts and restore my faith in these guys.

Reviewed By: JT

The Nines CD review

2011-10-07T11:49:00.007-07:00

I've never been much a blues rock fan, It's not that I hate it, it's just not my thing. but there are a few exeptions, and that is where The Nines enter the picture, the band wanted to send me their CD, so I heard a few clips off their reverbnation page, and was really impressed, so now that I've listened to the full length release simply titled "The Nines" I now know that The Nines are a very talented 3 piece, they hail from Detroit, home of another band I've reviewed called The Muggs. The Nines consist of Singer/guitarist Ian Kirwan, bassist Kevin Bernard, and drummer Greg Ornazian, the songs flat out rock. first track is called "Sun Don't Shine" this song is a good example of what you get throughout the entire CD, you get 9 bluesy rock songs with some killer guitar work, which is what drew me in, in the first place. standout songs are "Sun Don't Shine" "Harder Everyday" "The Fever" "Call My Name" and "Man From Mecca" the CD isn't overly produced, so it's got that garage band feel, which I like alot. All in all its a great release, record labels should really look into this band. i see a bright future ahead for The Nines. for more info check out their Reverb Nation page at www.reverbnation.com/thenines9

5/5*****
review by Guillermo Rascon

Megadeth relaunch Gigantour

2011-09-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

Megadeth is excited to re-launch for the first time since 2008 its critically acclaimed package festival Gigantour. The multi-artist bill — with metal heavyweights Motörhead, Volbeat and Lacuna Coil all personally picked by Dave Mustaine — will kick off in early 2012 with dates tentatively set for late January through early March.

EVERYONE SAY "AMEN!" AS ANTHRAX'S WORSHIP MUSIC MAKES BAND'S HIGHEST CHART DEBUT IN 20 YEARS

2011-09-21T11:30:00.002-07:00

Worship Music, (Megaforce) Anthrax's first studio album in eight years and its first with vocalist Joey Belladonna since 1990's Persistence of Time, blasts onto next week's Billboard Top 200 Albums chart at #12, the band's highest chart debut in two decades, and second-highest in its career, selling 28,500 copies.

And if that's not enough, Worship Music debuted at #4 on Billboard's Hard Rock Chart, #3 on the Hard Music Core Chart, and #2 at both the Indie and Indie Core Stores charts.

"I am most proud of our fans who came out and gave us the amazing support they did," said Anthrax's Charlie Benante. "To have our record debut at #12 is a great accomplishment."

Added the band's Scott Ian, "I'm absolutely thrilled with the fact that our Anthrax Army came out in force this week to show the world that good music matters. Thank you to all our friends, old and new! It's a privilege to do this for you."

While the recording of Worship Music was challenging and at some times difficult, it was at the core of an extraordinary experience for a band that had questioned its very future. Anthrax's turning point took place in 2009 at a Cleveland hotel bar with Metallica's Lars Ulrich when he first brought up the idea of The Big Four. That led to Anthrax's decision to get Belladonna back in the band on a permanent basis, and to the complete refashioning of the previously-recorded tracks for Worship Music with Belladonna's inimitable vocal stamp. Pre-release reviews of Worship Music hailed the album as not only a career-best for Anthrax, but "the metal album of the year," and last week's New York homecoming concert at Yankee Stadium as one of the original architects of speed and thrash metal with Metallica, Slayer and Megadeth - The Big Four - only added to Anthrax's remarkable renewal.

Anthrax hits the road beginning October 14 on a five-week, coast-to-coast tour with Testament and Death Angel.

Within Temptation: The Unforgiving - CD Review

2011-09-18T19:41:00.002-07:00

Artist: Within Temptation

Album: The Unforgiving

Released: March, 2011

Rating: *****

About a week ago, I was telling a good friend of mine about the next episode for my Podcast. I was wanting to do another themed episode. This one would be called "Chicks That Rock". As I was telling her about this episode and the bands and people I was wanting to feature, she had told me of some other Chick bands that had recently put out new material or had been around for the last few years. Among them was this band, Within Temptation. To date, they are the only ones out of the four bands my friend told me about, who have put out new material. This album, "The Unforgiving", has been out for a good little bit. So there are probably some of you out there who have been following this band that have this album already. But for those of you who are just now learning about this band, just as I am, this is something new for you and you just may want to pay attention to this review.

Up until this point, I had thought that Evanescence were the only band of their kind out there. I mean, sure there are other Melodic Rock bands out there, but you rarely see ones fronted by a chick! I'm discovering that there are actually quite a few of these bands out there. This band, Within Temptation however, has really stood out for me. They prefer to call themselves Symphonic Rock instead of Melodic Rock. Meh, you say potato, I say pototo. Never the less, it's still Melodic Rock. I mean, a dog by any other name is still a dog no matter what color it is.

From what I understand, "The Unforgiving", which was released earlier this year, is this bands first stab at a concept album. There is supposedly a comic book to go along with this release, and this album just helps to tell the story. Whatever the case, this album is in my opinion, SMOKIN' HOT! There are many great hooks, riffs and choruses throughout this whole album. There are even some songs that smack a little of some classic 80's influenced Melodic Rock. And you all know I'm a sucker for shit like that! Well Within Temptation have definitely suckered me with hints of that sound throughout this album! The musicians in this band are some of the best out there. They are really on their game here and sound tight as hell! The songs here are well written lyrically, well composed, very well produced, and damn it, just very well played! Not to mention that they have one hell of a chick lead vocalist in Sharon den Adel! She can definitely give Amy Lee a run for her money that's for sure! I'm not ashamed to say that both tend to give me chills when listening to them they are so damn good!

Stand Out Cuts: Shot In The Dark, In The Middle Of The Night, and Faster have got to be my three favorite cuts. But that doesn't discount tracks like Murder, Fire And Ice, Where Is The Edge and others! This is a fantastic album from beginning to end and I guarantee your gonna love every minute of it! Your best bet is to get your copy from either Amazon.com or Itunes as there are some bonus cuts not on the store bought copies. Either way this album will be well worth the money you'll spend on it! Check this one out soon! It is definitely in the running for my Top Ten list at the end of the year, that's for sure! Oh, BTW, I will be featuring "In The Middle Of The Night" in the "Chicks That Rock" episode of "Rock On America" coming up at the end of this week! Stay tuned if you want to check out this tune then!

Reviewed By: JT

Rainbow live in Germany Reissue

2011-09-15T11:18:00.003-07:00

Eagle Rock Entertainment have reissued this masterpiece, and very glad they did. there have been many formations of Rainbow through the years, but many say that this version was the prime version, consisting of guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, vocalist Ronnie James Dio, drummer Cozy Powell, bassist Jimmy Bain, and keyboardist Tony Carey.

now don't let this release containing only 8 songs put you off from buying this, many of the songs come in at 15 minutes long, and its pure Rainbow goodness, you have one of the best singers of all time in Ronnie James Dio never letting you down, and giving you his all, and Ritchie Blackmore, considered one of the best guitarists to walk the planet, with those two combined, you get some powerful stuff, especially in the song "Catch The Rainbow" another standout track is "Man On The Silver Mountain" coming in at 13:37 minutes.

this reissue sounds crystal clear, you would have no idea this was recorded back in 1976. Rainbow Live In Germany is a must for any hard rock fan. go and get this.

track listing
1. Kill The King 5:25
2. Mistreated 16:00
3. Sixteenth Century Greensleeves 7:50
4. Catch The Rainbow 14:50

Disc 2

5. Man On The Silver Mountain 13:37
6. Stargazer 17:10
7. Still I'm Sad 15:00
8. Do You Close Your Eyes 9:45

5/5*****

Review by Guillermo

Its Anthrax Day in The Bronx

2011-09-14T10:00:00.001-07:00

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is rolling out the welcome mat for fans coming to town to see iconic heavy metal bands Metallica, Anthrax, Megadeth and Slayer, "The Big 4," all performing live right here in the Bronx on Wednesday, September 14 at Yankee Stadium

The "Big 4" concert also represents a homecoming for Anthrax, which features three native Bronxites among their members--Charlie Benante, Frank Bello and Rob Caggiano. Both Benante and Bello grew up in Throggs Neck, while Caggiano is a native of Pelham Parkway. In honor of the band's return home, Borough President Diaz will officially declare September 14 as "Anthrax Day in the Bronx."

Dream Theater "On The Backs of Angels" video released

2011-09-14T09:17:00.004-07:00

Alice Cooper Gets Back To The Nightmare With "Welcome 2 My NIghtmare"

2011-09-14T03:33:00.002-07:00

Artist: Alice Cooper

Album: Welcome 2 My Nightmare

Released: September 13, 2011

Rating: ****

If your any kind of an Alice Cooper fan, you've been asking yourself the same question as I have: "What the hell is this crap Alice has been putting out lately"!? From the 70's through the 80's, we were spoiled with some stellar albums from ol' Coop. Mind you, not everyone of them were fantastic. There were some stinkers in there too. But not like there have been since the mid 90's up to now. Alice went from putting out some good quality Hard Rock to, well who the hell knows what. At any rate, it wasn't the Alice that we all know and Love. Even going so far as to put political statements into his songs a lot more than the norm. I think he even had an entire album dedicated to just political statements. I was begining to wonder if the Alice of old would ever resurface! Well apperantly, Alice has been following what's been going on in the Hard Rock world and noticing that there are a lot of bands that are going back to the old tried and true method of Hard Rock. That method is to just be true to yourself and be yourself. Play the kind of music you love to play. NOT what everyone else wants you to play. In the world of Hard Rock, it's just better to remain what you've always been. This way, you don't lose or alienate your fans. Unfortunatly, there have been a number of bands that have tried to follow the latest in Hard Rock and have failed miserably. Alice is no stranger to this.

But don't fear Cooper fans! The Alice of old has returned, even if only for a glimpse! Hopefully Alice has figured out that it IS better to be, well, just Alice! "Welcome 2 My Nightmare" marks Alice's return to tried and true Hard Rock. And he does it with a familear story. The story of Steven, a little boy terrorized by his nightmares. Yes kids, before there was Freddy Krueger, there was Alice Cooper and his fictional character, Steven in the first "Welcome To My Nightmare" album put out thirty some years ago. The story picks up where the last nightmare left off. And Alice even brings in some old friends from that last "Nightmare" album as well to help him tell the story. Alice recruted some of the members of his band from that last "Nightmare" to help with this new "Nightmare" and it works out beautifuly. On track 12, there's even an appearance from the latest "Pop Princess", Ke$ha! Now, you would think, as I did, that this would ruin what Alice has going here. But the addition of Ke$ha to "What Baby Wants" works out rather nicely! Don't believe me, head over to listen to the latest "Rock On America" show and have a listen to it! The song is pretty damn good.

At any rate, this is an album that returns Alice to the Alice of old. Great songs here and fantastic song writting. The production is even good, unlike some of the past albums. I would give a list of stand out cuts here like I usually do with each review, but really, with the group of songs on this effort, there's really not a need for that. Each song is rather enjoyable and holds it's own against the others. Really a true work that Alice should be proud of. And I'm glad that Alice has found his way back! Pick this one up, it's worth it!

Reviewed By: JT

There Needs To Be More Of This On Youtube!

2011-09-09T21:03:00.008-07:00

I was skimming through youtube a few days back, and found a metal news channel called "The Generally Metal Show" I clicked on the video, and was impressed, I've seen a few people try this before, and have failed big times, but Alloy Matt knows what he's talking about. he also has a blog at. alloymatt.com so go and subscribe to his channel.

Anthrax performs "The Devil You Know" on the Jimmy Fallon Show

2011-09-08T10:17:00.004-07:00

Anthrax performs "The Devil You Know" on the... by kissfan78201

House Of Lords - Big Money / CD Review

2011-09-07T03:11:00.000-07:00

Artist: House Of Lords

Album: Big Money

Release Date: September 23, 2011

Rating: ****

Since the late 80's, HOL have been hammering out albums. Sure, there have been hiatus's here and there, but for the most part, the band has been pretty consistent in putting out material. Some have been fantastic, some pretty good, and a small hand full that were not so good. The bands line up has changed over the years, but the core seems to have stayed intact, with the exception of Gregg Giuffria who of coarse was one of the founding members of the band. He may be out of the band as a member, but he does make appearances here and there in some of the writing credits for the band. Of coarse, this band would never be the same without one James Christian, the voice of HOL. Without him, they would be just another Melodic Rock band.

HOL now have 9 studio albums to their credit. Their last album, which I consider one of their best (right up there with the self titled album, Sahara and Demons Down) called Cartesian Dreams, was a return to form for the band. That classic HOL sound had returned. It appears that with this current release, Big Money, that sound has stayed intact, although this album does not surpass it's predecessor. It pretty much comes in just under what they had achieved on the last album. There are some real good songs on this release, don't get me wrong, but there are few on here that pack the punch that the last album delivered. That being said, it takes nothing away from how well this band can put together great songs. Each and every one of the cuts on this album are put together very well and the production of the entire album is once again, top notch. There just isn't anything in these songs that reaches out and grabs you like the tunes on Cartesian Dreams. Well, with the exception of a tune called "One Man Down", a tune about a Vietnam War vet. Great lyrics and great delivery all together on that one! It is by far my favorite cut on the album.

This album is decent. Even though there was really not much here that really popped for me, the tunes are still good. You know every time you listen to an HOL album that your getting quality tunes, no matter if the whole album rips your face off or not. For me, this album lacks the face rippers and is a little to heavy with the politics in the lyrics. I don't mind political statements in songs, I just don't like listening to it all the way through the album. Still, this is another great album to add to your HOL collection.

Rush sign with Roadrunner Records

2011-09-04T09:35:00.002-07:00

Rush is on the move. The prog rock legends behind "Tom Sawyer," "Fly By Night" and "The Spirit of Radio" have partnered up with Roadrunner Records after being doggedly pursued by the rock-heavy imprint.

"After years of Roadrunner pursuing the band, Tom Lipsky [President, Lipsky Music LLC] presented a deal that worked and the timing was right," Rush manager Ray Danniels said in an announcement. "We wanted to be at a label focused on the rock genre -- and that's Roadrunner."

Since 1989, the Canadian trio -- Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee and Neil Peart -- has released six studio albums through Atlantic, beginning with Presto and most recently, 2007's Snakes & Arrows, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Before that, the band was at Mercury.

The group's next full-length studio album, a long-gestating work titled Clockwork Angels, will be released in 2012 on Roadrunner. The delay -- a lead single, "Caravan," was released in June 2010 -- was due to the success of their Time Machine Tour, which just wrapped.

A first Roadrunner release will actually be a live album culled from the blockbuster tour. According to the label, details will be revealed in the coming weeks. Anthem/Universal Music will continue to release their music in Canada only.

Roadrunner is understandably excited to bag a band that has sold more than 40 million records and -- thanks to their doc Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage and the Rush-heavy comedy film I Love You, Man -- is enjoying heightened attention and accolades across generations.

"In another life I worked with Rush and their great management team more than 30 years ago and to have Rush finally on the Roadrunner label is a dream come true," said Cees Wessels, Roadrunner Records Chairman.

Lipsky, who brokered the deal, remarked that Rush has a "tradition of excellence and independence, both in the studio and on the live stage, and they remain as prolific today as at any point in their career. We are excited to be their label partners."

Rush's new labelmates include fellow prog rockers Dream Theater, metal heavies Megadeth and the indie rock band of the moment, Young the Giant, among others. Roadrunner's biggest commercial success is another Canadian act, the band Nickelback.

Doro's NY Home Destroyed by Hurricane Irene

2011-09-02T14:36:00.003-07:00

Legendary metal singer Doro has learnt that her US home was ruined during the recent hurricane that devastated parts of the US

Upon arriving in New York yesterday morning, legendary frontwoman Doro discovered that her home had been gravely affected by Hurricane Irene, which blew across parts of the East Coast of the US last week.

“The damage is disastrous”, she states. ”The whole ground-floor was flooded. It stinks, electricity failed and everything’s wrecked inside of the house. From the TV to the fridge to the furniture. Everything’s grime-stained, defective, unusable. The worst thing is that pieces of my stage costumes and lots of my souvenirs and presents from fans from all around the world are lost forever now.”

The metal queen will still play her planned New York and Chicago shows, which are being put on in celebration of her jubilee DVD, ‘Doro – 25 Years In Rock’.

”The shows will take place of course,” adds the singer. “For now, I’ve found accommodation in an hotel in New York and will have to see where things will go from here. I saw the pictures of ‘Irene’ on TV when I visited my mother in Germany on the weekend. When a red rubber raft appeared canoeing through a road on Long Island, I’ve already assumed the worst.”

Doro will release a new studio album in 2012

Anthrax Worship Music CD Review

2011-09-02T14:12:00.005-07:00

I first discovered Anthrax at the age of 16, I would crash at a buddy's house, and watch MTV's Headbangers Ball, and that's where I saw the video for "Indians" I was hooked from that day on, I bought "Among The Living" and most of their releases after that, then sometime later, I hear the news of singer Joey Belladonna leaving the band, and Armored Saint vocalist John Bush entering, I was not into that at all, but once I heard that version of Anthrax, I was impressed, and quickly became used to the idea, fast forward to the present, John is gone, and Joey has returned.

So after what seems an eternity, Anthrax have a new album called Worship Music" and its rare that I put a CD in my stereo, and it stays in. I've had the CD for 3 days now, and it's all I have been listening to. this release is a monster!! it kicks off with "Earth On Hell" that songs bring me back to their "Persistence Of Time" release, fast paced and crunchy. and Joey is in top form, while listening to this CD, I forget that Joey Belladonna had ever left, "Worship Music" is a continuation of what we all expect from Anthrax. the song "I'm Alive" reminds of their song "belly of the beast." and in my opinion, the best song on this CD is "In The End" that is a song that should be included in their live set list from here on out, it's that type of song. a song with some amazing guitar work is "Judas Priest" I don't think it's a tribute to the band, but hey, I could be wrong. "The Constant" sounds as if John Bush should have sung it, it seems oddly placed on this album, but other than that, Anthrax have returned in top form, let's hope this lineup stays together.

Fans Invited To ANTHRAX' Performance On Late Night With Jimmy Fallon

2011-09-01T15:28:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, September 7th, ANTHRAX will perform on NBC's Late Night With Jimmy Fallon. The show technically airs on Thursday morning (September 8th at 12:35 AM, ET/PT).

For broadcast, the band will perform 'The Devil You Know', currently the #2 Most Added track at active rock radio, and the first single from Worship Music, Anthrax's new album due out September 13th. Anthrax will also perform a surprise "classic" song that will be available exclusively at the Late Night With Jimmy Fallon website.

Fans who would like a chance to be close to Anthrax's performance on the show should click here, that will direct you to Late Night's "Band Bench" sweepstakes entry form. Enter for a chance to win seats on the show's band benches and an opportunity to surround the stage during Anthrax's performance. Please make sure to include the following band code: RAX, in your entry form.

Anthrax have announced a meet and greet session on September 7th at 8PM at the Soho Apple store in New York, NY. The band will discuss how the Mac changed everything, including their upcoming release, Worship Music.

ANTHRAX'S 9/14 "BIG FOUR" CONCERT AT NEW YORK'S YANKEE STADIUM TO BE A TRIUMPHANT, BITTERSWEET HOMECOMING

2011-08-31T14:01:00.001-07:00

When The Big Four - Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax, the four bands that defined the speed/thrash/metal music genre - play Yankee Stadium on September 14, the concert will be a celebratory and emotional experience for the five New York born-and-bred members of Anthrax, the only New York band on the bill. To begin with, Anthrax's hometown gig will be preceded by the 9/13 release of Worship Music, the band's first new album in eight years, and already called "the metal album of the year" by numerous music critics.

Drummer Charlie Benante, bassist Frank Bello, and guitarist Rob Caggiano are all from the Bronx, guitarist Scott Ian was born in Queens, and vocalist Joey Belladonna is an Oswego native.

Bello is a self-proclaimed, diehard Yankees fan who attended games at the original Stadium while growing up. Ian, also a lifelong Yankees fan who frequented Yankees games as a kid, was at the Stadium in '77 when Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in Game 6 of the World Series against the L.A. Dodgers. Ian recently told Rolling Stone, "We're a New York band, I'm a crazy Yankee fan, and we're playing Yankee Stadium, those three things add up to a perfect storm of insanity."

Benante's father, who was scouted by the majors, would regale a four-year-old Charlie with all the stats and facts about the Yankee players while the two played catch in the backyard. "My dad was a huge Yankees fan," Charlie recalls. "I remember he always had the TV or radio on, listening to every Yankees game he could. He died when I was five, so he never knew about my success as a musician, but I know he would have been so proud of me playing Yankee Stadium. I know that in some way, he'll be there, giving me the power I'll need to knock it out of the park."

Sebastian Bach's home destroyed due to Hurricane Irene

2011-08-28T19:14:00.002-07:00

Rocker Sebastian Bach wrote on his facebook that his house is a total loss. read below

I am numb, in shock, & devastated to report that my home of 21 years, my house featured on MTV Cribs, has been destroyed, condemned, & deemed uninhabitable due to the extreme flooding courtesy of Hurricane Irene.
In the 2 decades I have lived in this home, there has never been a single drop of water in the basement or anywhere else in the structure. Now Irene has overflowed the reservoir adjacent to my house. The surging waters have snapped the bridge in half next to my house & sent the bridge straight into my garage, knocking the house off of its foundation. The basement that has been dry for over 2 decades is now overflowing with water & I am not even allowed to start pumping the water out due to fears of electrocution. Original Skid Row & KISS fans, I have bad news for you . Gone are irreplacable items, such as my KISS Gargoyles from the 1979 tour. KISS pinball machine. Skid Row master tapes, video & audio, concerts, master tapes from Oh Say Can You Scream etc. Boxes & boxes of one of a kind Skid Row memorabilia, from the first tour to our last, all stuff I collected on the road that no one else had. I had a library in the basement with every single magazine that had Skid Row on the cover. This library took up a big part of the basement. All of this is lost now. We will salvage what we can of course. But how I wish there was a reason to do a box set or something before Hurricane Irene hit. Nobody cared. Now it's too late. Don't know what you got till it's gone, indeed.
The good news is that all my fathers artwork , including the 16 foot "Slave To The Grind" mural, is all ok. My sons & friends moved all my dads art to the 2nd level of the structure before Irene destroyed our home. My Silver Age Comic Collection is all on the 3rd level, with the David Bierk Archives, which is a completely dry level. But we are not allowed into the house yet to retrieve everything because the foundation has crumbled & the house could conceivably collapse at any second. We are working with the police & fire department to get the electricity turned off so no one gets electrocuted entering the premises. As soon as the power is off we will pump out the basement & salvage what we can. Everything will be put into storage & then it looks like we will level the house :(
This has really taught me that the best things in life are indeed 'free' . What makes me happy is that my children & ex wife are safe. My dads art is unharmed. No one got hurt. My scrapbooks of memories of my life are dry & safe. The only things that are making me smile today is cranking Black Veil Brides "Set the World on Fire" CD over & over again. Texting Danny from Asking Alexandria who may become my new roommate in LA . Getting texts from my girl Minnie in LA making sure I'm ok & trying to cheer me up. My neighbours in New Jersey clamouring around my house, calling me, offering help in any way they can. These things mean more to me than mere posessions.
I have been holding on to my house since December, when my divorce papers were filed. I just could not let go of the only home I had ever known. Well, God has other plans for me it seems. He has made His decision for me. My home has been taken away by an "Act Of God". I just think He is giving me a much needed push, is all. New Jersey, thank you all so much for 25 years of rock n' roll. It's all over now. I will always love New Jersey but now there is literally nothing left for me here except memories of a past life.
Hello, Los Angeles. Hello, New Life. Here I Am. It's time for a new start.
Like I have a choice.

Interview with Dave McClain of Machine Head

2011-08-26T10:45:00.001-07:00

Biohazard To Hold Open Auditions For New Singer

2011-08-25T10:04:00.005-07:00

Biohzarad have revealed that they will hold auditions to find a replacement for recently departed frontman Evan Seinfeld.

Biohazard are holding open auditions for their vacant singer position after longtime frontman and bassist Evan Seinfeld left to become a pornstar sometime back.

A statement from the band themselves reads as follows:

“ATTENTION SINGERS!!! You think you got what it takes to be one of the voices for Biohazard? Send us your music, videos, links, etc to auditions@biohazard.com and we’ll check you out. Experience is a must, as is the ability to commit 100% to the life of a full-time touring musician, as the band is booked solid for 2012 and 2013. – Biohazard”

RIOT SIGN TO SPV/STEAMHAMMER - NEW STUDIO ALBUM TO BE RELEASED IN NOVEMBER IN NORTH AMERICA

2011-08-24T10:20:00.003-07:00

Few bands deserve to be talked about in such revered terms as RIOT

Bursting through from New York City at the end of the Seventies with three ground-breaking albums on the trot ('Rock City', 'Narita' and 'Fire Down Under') RIOT quickly became one of the biggest cult metal bands in the world. Stunning performances in the UK at the first ever Castle Donington Festival in 1980 and Port Vale the following year and support slots with SAMMY HAGAR in Europe and AC/DC in the United States cemented their reputation as the hottest ticket to see.

With line-up changes knocking their momentum and the Eighties developing into a Thrash-fest a new-look RIOT bounced back in 1988 with the widely-acclaimed 'Thundersteel'. Although the faces might have looked unfamiliar, with only guitarist MARK REALE now left from the band's formative years, the aggression and musicianship remained unrivalled and unchallengeable. With TONY MOORE's distinctive vocals, the muscle and might of bassist DON VAN STAVERN and drummer BOBBY JARZOMBEK powering the songs along, and Reale's precision playing RIOT were reborn, and followed 'Thundersteel' two years later with the jaw-dropping 'The Privilege Of Power', an inspiring and at times truly epic album. However, by this time the music world was turning into a very different place, and RIOT found themselves struggling against a tide of apathy. Reale continued to guide the ship through the next two decades, delivering albums of consistent, quality metal, culminating in 2006's 'Army Of One' - a true statement of intent, as if one were needed.

But the army of one is an army of five once more as RIOT's classic 'Thundersteel' and 'Privilege...' line-up has re-united, adding guitarist MIKE FLYNTZ who played in the live band at that time. Signing with SPV/Steamhammer for all territories except Japan, RIOT will release their new album "Immortal Soul" on October 28th in Germany, October 31st in Europe and early November in the US and Canada.

RIOT have also been confirmed as special guests on the first leg of HAMMERFALL's European tour this winter. The tour kicks off on 26th October in Copenhagen, Denmark, and ends for the five-piece metal machine in Cologne, Germany, on 18th November. This will be the first time the legendary 'Thundersteel' and 'The Privilege Of Power' line-up of TONY MOORE (vocals), MARK REALE (guitar), MIKE FLYNTZ (guitar), DON VAN STAVERN (bass) and BOBBY JARZOMBEK (drums) has played in Europe on a full tour, after the band's celebrated one-off show at the Sweden Rock Festival in 2009.

Olly Hahn, A&R at Steamhammer, says: "Mark, Tony, Don, Bobby and Mike are really fired up once more, and "Immortal Soul" will be a true successor to the legacy of 'Thundersteel' and 'Privilege...'. Classic metal will never die, and who did it better than RIOT?"

RIOT live in Europe 2011 - on tour with Hammerfall

26.10. DK-Copenhagen - Amager Bio

27.10. NO-Oslo - Rockefeller

28.10. SE-Gothenburg - Lisebergshallen

29.10. SE-Stockholm - Arenan

31.10. D-Hamburg - Grosse Freiheit

01.11. B-Antwerp - Trix

02.11. D-Filderstadt - Filharmonie

04.11. D-Oberhausen - Turbinenhalle

05.11. F-Paris - Bataclan

06.11. LUX-Esch Alzette - Rockhal

07.11. CH-Zürich - Volkshaus

09.11. A-Vienna - Arena

10.11. A-Graz - Orpheum

11.11. I-Milan - Magazinni Generali

12.11. D-Munich - Theaterfabrik

13.11. CZ-Prague - KD Vitavska

15.11. PL-Warsaw - Stodola

16.11. D-Berlin - Huxleys

17.11. NL-Tilburg - 013

18.11. D-Cologne - Essigfabrik

Wayne Static - Assassins Of Youth

2011-08-23T22:32:00.002-07:00

Wayne Static- Assassins Of Youth by madmacent

The first single from the upcoming album PIGHAMMER out October 4,2011

The Great KAT "Beethoven Shreds" is out now!

2011-08-23T17:17:00.008-07:00

The Great Kat is back, and playing her guitar the only way she knows how..FAST! and if you dont know who she is, she's only listed as one of the top 50 fastest guitarist's of all time, and she's unleashed her latest effort called "Beethoven Shreds" thats right, she blends metal and classic music, and this CD shows just how well she does it. it's got 7 songs of shredding goodness.
1. The Flight Of The Bumble Bee
2. Beethoven's 5th Symphony
3. Torture Techniques
4.Bach's Brandenburg Concerto #3
5. IslamicFascists
6. Bach's The Art Of The Fugue
7. Paganini's Caprice #24
So if you like fast guitars, then go and get this CD at www.greatkat.com

rated 5/5 stars..for fear of The Great One herself coming after me

Jani Lane found with a note in his pocket

2011-08-23T12:24:00.004-07:00

singer Jani Lane was carrying a note in his pocket on the day he died which read, "I am Jani Lane" ... but TMZ has learned Jani wasn't the person who wrote the note.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... Jani had no official ID on him when his body was discovered at a Los Angeles motel on August 11 -- and we're told he hadn't been in possession of an ID for a while.

We're told the note contained a phone number for a person close to Jani -- and police contacted that person after Jani's body was discovered.

Law enforcement sources tell us ... investigators have confirmed the note was written by one of Jani's friends -- and that person had placed a similar note on Jani in the past. Cops have been in contact with that person.

However, the note has infuriated members of Jani's family -- who tell us whoever had written the note was CLEARLY aware that Jani had a substance abuse problem ... and should have helped Jani seek treatment instead of simply tucking a piece of paper into his pants.

It's unclear if the same person who wrote the note also checked Jani into the Comfort Inn -- but sources tell us it appears the room where Jani was discovered was not purchased by Jani himself.

Law enforcement sources tell us there is no criminal investigation into the death -- and so far, investigators believe Jani's death was either accidental or due to natural causes.

An autopsy has been completed -- and results from the toxicology tests are expected soon

taken from TMZ.COM

New KISS release will be a "Monster"

2011-08-21T10:55:00.002-07:00

KISS' follow-up to the critically acclaimed "Sonic Boom" album will be called "Monster." The band is currently working on the album in Los Angeles for a 2012 release. KISS is planning a massive 2012-2013 "Monster" world tour which will take the band around the globe.

"It's effortless... no outside writers, four guys playing together. Fans will be blown away. If anybody was moved by Sonic Boom, this is that on steroids," Paul Stanley stated in a new Classic Rock interview.

Doro 25 Years in Rock DVD trailer released

2011-08-19T15:05:00.001-07:00

The "Rock On America" Podcast Pays Tribute To Former Warrant Vocalist, Jani Lane

2011-08-18T18:50:00.001-07:00

Back in 1989, I was a mere 19 years old. I had, myself, already started into my third band. My second as lead vocalist. I had many heros back then such as, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Robert Plant, Ozzy Osbourne, Kelly Hanson and so on. I liked singers who had a unique vocal style and look. I wanted so badly to sing like them, but unfortunatly, I was stuck with a low Baritone style. So any band I was in, EVER, had to literally form a style around me. I was crushed. Why couldn't I have been born with that awesome Tenor voice. Especially the high Tenor. The guys who could really reach those extremely high notes. You know, the ones that made them sound as if someone had just tightend a pair of Vice Grips around their nuts! I was so jealous of those guys. They were perfect. A great singing voice, blonde hair and blue eyed most of them. It just wasn't fair. Jani Lane was one of those guys.

When Warrant hit the scene in '89 with their instant hit, "Down Boys", I wanted nothing more than to hate them with everything I had. But I couldn't escape them! They were all over Mtv, the local radio stations, and my sister and my girlfriend's tape players and CD players! I was surrounded by Warrant and Jani Lane! For almost two years I did whatever I could to avoid even looking at these guys! Then one day, the unimaginable happened. Warrant was coming to the music theater a few towns over from mine. And guess what! MY girlfriend wanted me to get tickets and take her!! "UUUUUGGGHH!!!!!", I thought to myself! What the hell was I gonna do now! I absolutley hated this band and anything having to do with them! Well, ended up sucking it up and making my girlfriend happy and taking her to the show. Watching the band play, something else happened that I never thought would happen, and sure didn't want to happen! I was starting to like these utterly agrivating "Pretty Boys"!

I have to admit, they were damn entertaining! Jani was hilarious with his stories and antics on stage. Not to mention that damn voice of his! They fuckin' blew me away! From that moment on, I was, *gulp*, a Warrant fan. I had to have everything they put out! which at that time was only two albums worth of material, "Dirty, Rotten, Filthy, Stinkin', Rich" and "Cherry Pie". Yup, I was hooked. Over the years, I still bought their albums. That is, up until Jani had left the band for good and was no longer on any Warrant albums. After Jani had left the band, Warrant just seemed to lose their luster for me. Well, at least untill Robert Mason took over on vocals. At any rate, they are still not really the same without Jani in front. And as of last Thursday evening, looks like any chance for another reunion with Warrant and Jani is now permenatly gone for good, along with Jani himself. Jani Lane had passed away at the age of 47, found in a California hotel room. The official cause of death is still unknown at this time.

So, to honor the passing of one of Hair Metal's favorite sons, my Podcast show, "Rock On America" will pay tribute to one of Rock's most amazing voices and talents, Jani Lane. The show will be recorded this weekend and ready for your listening pleasure by the start of the week. "Rock On America" is part of the Spreaker Web Radio Network and can be found on Spreaker.com(http://spreaker.com/). Just search for "Rock On America"!

"Rock On America"! The Best Rock On Planet Earth!
http://www.spreaker.com/page#!/show/rock_on_america_1

Also "Like" "Rock On America" on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Rock-On-America/211267222252767?sk=wall

JT

That Metal Show sneak peek with Tony Iommi

2011-08-18T14:12:00.001-07:00

Get More: That Metal Show, Classic Rock Videos, Top Songs, TV Shows

Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, Dallas Texas 2011

2011-08-18T11:31:00.019-07:00

It was Freaking HOT!

That’s about my entire damn review of the Rockstar Mayhem Fest in Dallas, TX, well that’s not the whole review but it was truly hotter than Hades, but somehow did not deter the huge crowd of people from having a blast! One would think that 100+ heat would stop the crowds from having a good time, but as soon as Straight Line Stitch hit the stage… the crowd was a buzz!

Kingdom of Sorrow (new album out now ‘Behind the Blackest Tears’) was fantastic although Kirk looked about ready to pass out from the heat! Jamey Jasta has always been my favorite front man… he commands the crowd so fucking good. Jamey was asking
people to get rowdy but to make sure to pick up their fellow moshers. The same advice came from Unearth and most bands… telling their crowds to please watch for others in this heat.

All Shall Perish (bad ass new album out now ‘This is where it ends’) are a band of the most awesome and humble guys I know. They greet fans and talk to people and it’s almost like they forget how huge they are in the scene right now. Ernie, the singer, seemed to be perfectly adapt the blazing heat. His Jesus beard was quit epic!

I think one of the coolest parts of the night had to be the Motor Cross guys doing their stunts while Suicide Silence all but killed from the stage! It almost seemed choreographed the way the bikes seemed to fly in the air during the bad ass break downs!

I can say that I mostly went to the show to see Machine Head. As they walked out onto the stage… the roar from behind me was deafening! Funny… during the set… instead of taking shit loads of awesome pics like the other Photogs… I was head banging and air guitaring. Unlike those OTHER writers, I still like to rock the fuck out. I am a fan first and foremost and will never be too jaded to admit as much.

Machine Heads set was short, but contained the newest song off the soon to be released album, ALBUM ‘Unto The Locust’ - September 27, 2011. If that song indicates what they are bringing to the table in a month… then I am fucking ready! You can check out my awesome interview with Dave the drummer on the loudreviews youtube page. During the song ‘Halo’ a super smoking hot blond chick flashed the band… the smiles on their faces was priceless!

Megadeth, although they played a short set due to Dave Sr. injury, was just as awesome as to be expected. I mean, its fucking MEGADETH! “Symphony of Destruction” was like JUST what the crowd needed to get reenergized! Godsmack was also pretty great. I’d never seen them live… but they really know how to rock. Was cool to see Sully and the drummer have a ‘drum off’! Its easy to see that Godsmack loves their fans. Disturbed, the main attraction, was GREAT! Never fucking thought I would say some shit like that… but they were. They truly did a great freaking job.

The night ended with a tribute to the slain Dime Bag of Pantera. The guys from the otherbands crowded the stage with camo shorts and pink beards… was a heart warming tribute to one of the most influential people to ever be in metal.

Review by Brutal Brandy

Chimaira Announce Fall Tour

2011-08-18T11:21:00.002-07:00

Chimaira, with a revamped lineup, will embark on a headlining tour this fall to support their just-released new album 'The Age of Hell.' Supporting the band will be Revocation, Rise to Remain and Impeding Doom. Bring the mosh!

The tour kicks off in Philly on October 12th, before wrapping in their native Ohio (Columbus, not their home city of Cleveland, though) on November 5th.

10/12 - Philadelphia, PA - Trocadero
10/14 - Joliet, IL - Mojoes
10/15 - Minneapolis, MN - First Ave
10/17 - Denver, CO - Summit
10/18 - SLC, UT - Club Sound
10/20 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
10/21 - Portland, OR - Peter's Room
10/24 - Los Angeles, CA - Key Club
10/25 - Tucson, AZ - The Rock
10/27 - San Aantonio, TX - White Rabbit
10/28 - Dallas, TX - The Door
10/29 - Houston, TX - Fitzgeralds
10/31 - Orlando, FL - Firestone
11/1 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade
11/3 - New York, NY - BB Kings
11/4 - Pittsburgh, PA - Mr Smalls
11/5 - Columbus, OH - Al Rosa Villa

L.A. GUNS TO Release Acoustic Album

2011-08-16T17:12:00.001-07:00

L.A. GUNS will release Acoustic Gypsy Live on September 27 via Favored Nations Entertainment.

The album was produced, mixed and mastered by Grammy winner Neil Citron. this is the first acoustic album in their 29-year history. The album was recorded at The Hotel Café in Hollywood, CA. L.A. Guns will embark on a national tour in September to support the CD.

Guitarist Tracii Guns comments that he was: “Terrified, as I hadn’t played live acoustically for more than an hour since my Bancroft Junior High School guitar ensemble when I was 13 years old. I gathered up the guys I trust the most musically to help make this as great as possible. After listening back to this performance, I am not so scared to perform acoustically anymore.”

Tracklisting is as follows:
‘Crystal Eyes’
‘One Way Ticket’
‘Decide’
‘Dreamtime’
‘Electric Gypsy’
‘It’s Over Now’
‘Never Enough’
‘Over The Edge’
‘Little Soldier’
‘Sex Action’
‘These Arms Of Mine’
‘Love Hurts’
‘The Ballad Of Jayne’
‘Rip And Tear’

So the Black Sabbath Reunion is only "speculation"?

2011-08-16T14:44:00.003-07:00

Tony Iommi Calls Black Sabbath Reunion News “Speculation”

Contrary to earlier reports, guitarist Tony Iommi is calling news of a Black Sabbath reunion merely “speculation.” The “official” news comes from an article published in the Birmingham Mail earlier today. On his own website, Iommi says:

“I’m saddened that a Birmingham journalist whom I trusted has chosen this point in time to take a conversation we had back in June and make it sound like we spoke yesterday about a Black Sabbath reunion.

“At the time I was supporting the Home of Metal exhibition and was merely speculating, shooting the breeze, on something all of us get asked constantly, “Are you getting back together?”

“Thanks to the internet it’s gone round the world as some sort of ‘official’ statement on my part, absolute nonsense. I hope he’s enjoyed his moment of glory, he won’t have another at my expense.

“To my old pals, Ozzy, Geezer and Bill, sorry about this, I should have known better.

“All the best, Tony”

It's Official! BLACK SABBATH Reunite For Album, Tour

2011-08-16T11:18:00.003-07:00

With rumours circling the internet this week, it seems now this is official. According to Sundaymercury.net, the original BLACK SABBATH line-up is getting back together.

Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward have begun rehearsing for a tour and new studio album.

In June this year vocalist Ozzy and guitarist Iommi wrote new material for a record that will be released next year.

‘‘We’re really looking forward to it and I think the stuff we’ve been writing is really good,’’ said 63-year-old Iommi. ‘‘It’s more back to the old original stuff.’’

He added that the reunion has been kept under wraps for some time.

‘‘It’s all been very hush-hush. Ozzy’s been the worst at trying to hold it back. He’s doing a lot of TV and he’s being sked stuff about a reunion and he’s going ‘well I never say never’.

‘‘He told me, ‘I don’t know what to say’.’’

Work Of Art: In Progress, CD Review

2011-08-16T03:13:00.001-07:00

Artist: Work Of Art

Album: In Progress

Release: August 23, 2011

Rating: ****

If Melodic Rock is your poison of choice. If bands like Styx, Journey, Eden's Curse and others are your cup of tea, then you'll have no problem whatsoever getting into Work Of Art. Their new album, "In Progress" is Taylor made for those of you who dig soring choruses and vocals! It's all right here and it truly is, for the most part, a work of art.

The album begins with the ultra explosive "The Rain", which captivates you from the minute the Keyboards start the first notes of the song. From there your automatically sucked in wondering if the rest of this album can be as good as this. Guess what! It can! The harmonies through out the album are incredible, just as they should be for any band who's going after Melodic Rock gold. The tunes, themselves, are very well crafted and each are unique unto themselves. Not one sounds like the other, which most bands who do this kind of music seem to have a problem with, especially just starting out. If your a fan of this style of music, then your going to love this band.

Stand Out Cuts: The Rain, Nature Of The Game, Never Love Again, Until You Believe and Emelie. Really all the cuts on this one are damn good, these just really stick out for me. Once you listen to this album, your stand outs may be a little different from mine. This is definitely worth your time to check out.

Reviewed by: JT

Vodka and Pills found at the death scene

2011-08-12T11:29:00.002-07:00

Investigators found a half-empty bottle of vodka and prescription medication in the hotel room where Jani Lane died yesterday.

Paramedics were called to the Comfort Inn in Woodland Hills, CA yesterday around 5:15 PM. He was pronounced dead on the scene.

An autopsy is scheduled for later today.

Lane's death is being treated as an accidental overdose or a possible death from natural causes.

Jani Lane dead at 47

2011-08-11T20:31:00.002-07:00

According to TMZ.com former WARRANT singer Jani Lane was found dead Thursday evening (August 11) at a Los Angeles-area hotel. He was 47 years old.

Lane's body was discovered at the Comfort Inn hotel in Woodland Hills, California. So far, no official cause of death has been released.

many musicians are taking to twitter to give their respects to Jani Lane, here are a few:

Slash (@Slash): Just heard about Jani Lane. What a shame. RIP man.

Tommy Lee (@MrTommyLand): RIP Jani Lane

Nikki Sixx (@NikkiSixx): I just heard the sad news about Janie Lane. So hard to swallow when people have kids. RIP.

bretmichaels (@bretmichaels): We'd like to offer our deepest condolences to the family of Jani Lane regarding their loss. Respectfully, Bret and all at MEGI

Steven Adler (@StevenAdlerSite): I'm so sad that I lost another dear friend to this horrible disease. I've known Jani for over 30 years and he had a heart of gold. Luv u bro

STEPHEN PEARCY (@StephenEPearcy): Sad to hear today. R.I.P. Jani Lane.

Glenn Hughes (@glenn_hughes): We must remember that the unlucky ones who lose their life to Alcohol and drugs, are those that could not completely surrender~sad day, GH.

Kelly Hansen (@TheKellyHansen): So very sad about the passing of Janie Lane. We came up at the same time. I'll remember his voice. My heart goes out to his family & fans.

Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho): Sad to hear about the passing of Jani Lane. Jani was a good guy and one of the best songwriters in the late 80s Dog Eat Dog-very underrated

jim florentine (@Mrjimflorentine): So sad to hear about the passing of Jani Lane. He just taped an episode of That Metal Show 3 weeks ago and was in great spirits. RIP Buddy

Eddie Trunk (@EddieTrunk): My God, Jani Lane found dead as just reported by TMZ. Just saw him and he is in the new season of TMS. I am stunned. So sad.

Michael Sweet (@michaelhsweet): My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Jani Lane. Had the pleasure of meeting him on 'That Metal Show' and he was a great guy.

Dave Navarro (@davenavarro6767): Sad to hear about Jani Lane… Had a chance to play with him in Camp Freddy years ago. Very nice guy. RIP pal…

deesnider (@deesnider): Jani Lane's is yet another sad story of a boy who attained his dreams of greatness, only to be blindsided by the pressures, temptations and disappointments of those same dreams. We all watched over the years, as he soared, stumbled, fell, then got up again and again. Tragically, he will get up no more. RIP Jani.

Sebastian Bach (@sebastianbach): Jani Lane RIP :(

Dj ASHBA (@DjASHBA): Jani Lane RIP

The Mayhem Festival Dallas Texas

2011-08-11T13:56:00.009-07:00

Our own Brutal Brandy attended the Mayhem festivities in Dallas Texas on 8/10/11, took some pictures, and scored a couple of interviews, which we will have posted very soon. here are a few Machine Head photo's, we posted the rest on our Facebook page, so click the facebook widget on the right menu bar to check them out!

Megadeth set release date for new album

2011-08-10T11:14:00.001-07:00

Megadeth have made it official: Their 13th studio album, TH1RT3EN, will be released on November 1, 2011. Says singer and guitarist Dave Mustaine, "This record is the culmination of my work over the 13 records I recorded. There are moments on TH1RT3EN that capture my every emotion, and other moments where I am releasing feelings I never knew existed! My proudest moments of my musical career are captured on TH1RT3EN.”

TH1RT3EN also marks the recorded return of bassist Dave Ellefson, who was part of the band's classic lineup from 1983 to 2002. In a move that delighted the band's legion of diehards, Ellefson returned to performing live with Megadeth in early 2010 and has remained a fixture on the stage ever since. This is the first time Ellefson has played on a Megadeth record since 2002's Rude Awakening.

The album's title has several layers of meaning, which leader and guitar deity Mustaine, who first picked up an axe at the age of 13, revealed in a recent chat with RollingStone.com, saying, "I was born on September 13th; this is my thirteenth record. It just seemed like it was the right thing to do to call it TH1RT3EN."

The band has spent the summer killing it on the main stage of the fourth annual Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival tour, and they'll cap that off by performing as part of "The Big 4" once again, this time in New York at Yankee Stadium alongside Metallica, Slayer and Anthrax. The only previous "Big 4" show in the U.S. took place in April in Southern California.

The band recorded an original track, "Never Dead," specifically for the NeverDead action-adventure video game franchise; that song will appear on TH1RT3EN, as will "Sudden Death," which the band recorded for Guitar Hero: Warriors Of Rock.

DREAM THEATER Announce More Tour Dates

2011-08-08T20:56:00.002-07:00

DREAM THEATER will release their new album, A Dramatic Turn Of Events, on September 13th via Roadrunner Records. Earlier today the band updated their tour itinerary, confirmed shows are listed below:

September
24 - San Francisco, CA - The Warfield *
25 - Los Angeles, CA - Nokia Theater *
27 - Seattle, WA - Showbox SODO *
28 - Vancouver, BC - Queen Elizabeth Theatre *
30 - Salt Lake City, UT - Kingsbury Hall

October
2 - Chicago, IL - Rosemont Theatre
3 - Royal Oak, MI - Royal Oak Music Theatre
4 - Pittsburgh, PA - Trib Total Media Amphitheatre *
6 - Toronto, ON - Massey Hall *
7 - Montreal, QC - Place des Arts *
8 - Quebec City, QC - Pavilion de la Jeunesse *
10 - Boston, MA - Orpheum Theatre *
11 - Morristown, NJ - Mayo Performing Arts Center *
12 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre *
16 - Philadelphia, PA - Merriam Theatre
17 - Washington, DC - Warner Theatre
21 - Pompano Beach, FL - Pompano Beach Amphitheater
22 - Cleawater, FL - Ruth Eckerd Hall
23 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
25 - Houston, TX - Verizon Wireless Theater *
26 - Austin, TX - Bass Concert Hall *
27 - Dallas, TX - Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie

Shows marked as * feature special guests TRIVIUM

Wanna live in Slash's House? got 9.5 Million?

2011-08-06T16:02:00.006-07:00

Slash's pad is up for sale, and if you have a spare 9.5 million, this Beverley Hills mansion can all be yours!

VENOM - Fallen Angels Album Tracklisting Revealed

2011-08-05T12:33:00.001-07:00

Universal Music will release pioneering UK black metallers VENOM's new album, entitled Fallen Angels, in August / September 2011 (exact date to be confirmed).

Fallen Angels tracklisting:

'Hammerhead'
'Nemisis'
'Pedal To The Metal'
'Lap Of The Gods'
'Damnation Of Souls'
'Beggerman'
'Hail Satanas'
'Sin'
'Punks Not Dead'
'Death Be Thy Name'
'Lest We Forget'
'Valley Of The Kings'
'Fallen Angels'

Both CD and vinyl versions will be available.

The band are also in the process of making a promo video for one of the new songs, as well as finalising their live DVD footage.

Says drummer Dante: "Everything is on schedule and coming along great, we are really busy getting ready for the launch, it's amazing how positive everyone is about the new record, so we are really eager for the Legions to finally hear it. We've had to put our live shows on hold for the time being to schedule the interviews and photo shoots, etc, but the management are working on some live shows for later in the year, so we will be back on the road soon, and playing the new songs which are already part of the new live set".

About the band's new album, bassist/vocalist Conrad "Cronos" Lant recently told The Quietus that "the new tracks are tremendous. Basically, if you think of the way Antton was playing, especially on the last album Hell, he is a nu metal drummer and comes from that kind of background. He’s hung round Venom most of his life and it was just good to introduce him to the whole Venom concept of playing like the way Abaddon used to play. Basically Abaddon came from a rock background and then basically developed a black metal, speed metal, thrash metal style. The nu metal drumming is very different and it was a steep learning curve for him. At the end of the day he’s got his own style and he wants to be known for what he’s done and not be in my shadow which is totally understandable. Some of the guys we had coming to the rehearsals were not ex-CRADLE OF FILTH but they were still ‘I’ve been in this band, I’ve been in that band’ but they were all far too young, you know. We were looking for someone in their thirties upwards who understood rock music."

Source: Bravewords.com

Diamond Lane "World Without Heroes" CD Review

2011-08-03T11:34:00.005-07:00

The rockers from California, Diamond Lane released their second CD called World Without Heroes earlier this year, and I really like what this band is doing, they have that throwback sound of L.A.'s Sunset Strip, but they blend that with modern rock. I've seen other bands do that with lackluster results, but Diamond Lane have perfected the combination.

the band is fronted by vocalist Brandon Baumann, his singing reminds me a little of Ron Keel, and Jarret Reis's guitar work is superb, and with drummer Jonah Nimoy, and bassist Ray Zhang rounding out the band, Diamond Lane make for a very tight unit.

“All Rebels Welcome” starts World Without Heroes, and I'll be honest, that was the only song that didn't do it for me, but things take off after that with "I Know What You Did Last Summer" and "City of Sin" showcasing the talent this band has. other standout songs are "Time Bomb" "Heaven's Falling" and my favorite being "Sundress City"

this release is sure to please the fans of 80's hair metal, along with fans of more modern rock. you should give Diamond Lane a listen

Review by Guillermo Rascon
4/5****

Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley To Collaborate On New Book

2011-08-02T20:24:00.001-07:00

Gene & Paul To Collaborate On New Book
(From Hollywood Reporter)

'Nothin’ To Lose' charting the band's rise will be published in Summer 2012.

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, two of the founders of legendary superband KISS, are collaborating with rock journalist Ken Sharp on Nothin’ To Lose, an oral history of the band’s early years, from its founding in 1973 to the 1975 release of its breakout concert album Alive! The book will include interviews with bandmates Peter Criss and Ace Frehley, other rock stars of the era, and the behind-the-scenes players. The book will feature never-before-published photographs. IT Books, an imprint of Harper Collins is scheduled to publish the book in Summer 2012. Drummer Peter Criss has his own memoir due in 2012.

IT Books Editor Denise Oswald exlusively talked to The Hollywood Reporter about the project. “KISS is one of the most beloved and influential hard rock bands of the last forty years. What is particularly fascinating about this project is about how the band got off the ground, how they came up with the concept of who they were that so defined them and captured the love and imagination of all of their fans.” Oswald says the book is about more than just the band. “Its also an amazing depiction of New York in the early seventies--its Manhattan, its Queens, you have members of the Ramones, members of Blue Oyster Cult, touring with and playing with Kiss. You really get this incredible portrait of a time.”

Simmons and Stanley founded KISS in 1973 after their previous band Wicked Lester broke up. They found drummer Peter Criss and lead guitarist Ace Frehley through advertisements in East Coast rock magazines. The band’s first few albums recorded so-so sales, but KISS gained a reputation as a sensational live act for their makeup and Simmon’s theatrics, which included spitting blood and breathing fire. They also cultivated an airy of mystery by not allowing themselves to be photographed out of makeup. Band members have also talked in interviews about the epic backstage partying that went on during its early years. Kiss’s big breakthrough came in 1975 with the release of ALIVE!, which featured the its first top-40 hit in the live version of "Rock and Roll All Nite."

Rock memoirs have been a hot category for publishers of late with both Sammy Hagar and Steven Tyler's memoirs reaching the bestseller lists this year. Other recent announcements of upcoming books include memoirs by Pete Townshend, Gregg Allman, and Billy Idol.

Nikki Sixx jumps a fan in the crowd

2011-08-01T23:50:00.003-07:00

from what I gather, someone was using a professional type of camera at a recent show, and Nikki didnt like it, so he jumped into the crowd to make him stop. this guy is like 50 years old right? he could have bruised a bone, and at his age, would have taken forever to recover. chill out man.

Theory Of A Deadman Return With "The Truth Is..."

2011-07-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Artist: Theory Of A Deadman

Album: The Truth Is...

Released: 2011

Rating: ***

So, I've been following TOD since the first time I heard "Invisible Man" on the first Spiderman soundtrack. It was such and incredible song with so much power in it that I had to have the album it came from. Bought the album and the rest is history. I became an instant TOD fan. Their second effort seemed to be equally as powerful and I began to wonder if this band would ever disappoint me. Could it be possible that there was a band out there that just could not disappoint me? Then the third album came. Okay, not quite as edgy as the first two, but still a good solid Rock album.

And now here we are with album number four... "The Truth Is...". Aaaahhh, I knew it was too good to be true. Eventually, it had to happen. No band alive has ever been able to keep in good re pour with me for longer than three albums. Okay, so this album isn't quite that bad. It does have it's moments. But honestly, how many songs do you need on here about Losers? How many songs do you need on an album that make you laugh about basically the same things over and over again. A lot of the songs on here seem to mirror each other. That's were it gets a little disappointing. I really expected much better than this from TOD. There are just too many songs on here with basically the same theme, and almost identical wording or, if you will, lyricism. When that starts to happen, that tells me that the band is running out of fresh ideas. And when the band starts running out of fresh ideas, maybe it's time they take a little time off to recharge the batteries so they can explore some fresh topics and ideas. You must understand, I have loved just about everything this band has put out up to this point. Each album before this has gotten plenty of time in the car CD player. This one may get another day or two, but that's about it. It will probably be one of those that I pull back out in a few years to play just to say, "Oh yeah, that's why I don't play this one anymore".

Standout Cuts: "Lowlife", "Bitch Came Back", "Hurricane", "Love Is Hell", "Drag Me To Hell" & "Easy To Love You". After these, the same themes really kinda repeat leaving the rest of the album just filler and pretty much stale. Unless your are a die-hard TOD fan, then there is really no reason for you to pick up the whole album. Just download these standout cuts from Itunes and you've pretty much got an outstanding album at that point. The rest leave you scratching your head wondering if you had just heard the same song four tracks ago. No lie!

Reviewed By: JT

MACHINE HEAD - Unto The Locust Album Artwork, Tracklisting Revealed

2011-07-28T11:24:00.002-07:00

MACHINE HEAD will release their new album, Unto The Locust, on September 27 via Roadrunner Records. The album artwork can be seen below:

Unto The Locust was recorded at JingleTown Studios in Oakland California, with Machine Head frontman Robb Flynn producing. The was mixed by Flynn and Juan Urteaga (EXODUS, SADUS, TESTAMENT).

Unto The Locust tracklistings:

Standard CD:
'I Am Hell (Sonata In C#)'
I) 'Sangre Sani'
II) 'I Am Hell'
III) 'Ashes To The Sky'
'Be Still And Know'
'Locust'
'This Is The End'
'Darkness Within'
'Pearls Before The Swine'
'Who We Are'

Special Edition CD+DVD:
'I Am Hell (Sonata in C#)'
I) 'Sangre Sani'
II) 'I Am Hell'
III) 'Ashes To The Sky'
'Be Still And Know'
'Locust'
'This Is The End'
'Darkness Within'
'Pearls Before The Swine'
'Who We Are'
'The Sentinel' *
'Witch Hunt' *
'Darkness Within' (Acoustic) *

* Bonus tracks

DVD:
- The Making Of Unto The Locust Documentary

Metal Hammer are set to release Unto The Locust on September 26th in the UK with a special edition fan-pack.

Complete with 132–page special issue complete with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the making of the new album, extensive interviews with every member, never-before-seen historic shots from the band’s personal collections, a guide to their custom rigs, and a diary of their massive Mayhem tour happening this summer, this is the ultimate companion to the long-awaited follow-up to The Blackening, Metal Hammer’s album of the decade. And that’s not all. This exclusive fanpack also includes a 100% official patch, sticker sheet and poster. This is your chance to be part of Machine Head history!

“This is gonna be fucking awesome! It’s ridiculous,” says Robb Flynn of the venture. “I can’t believe that there’s going to be a magazine about us with a special edition of our new album. It’s pretty mindblowing, really. It’s something really fuckin’ cool for the fans, and it’s something incredible for us too. We’re all really stoked on this new record and we can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve been doing in the studio. Releasing it this way on newsstands (not just record stores) makes it way cooler! You guys know how to make magazines, man! People over here in the US need to look at the UK and how you make magazines.

“You guys make people care about this stuff and you’re real music fans. Get your niche and fuckin’ ride it! People want cool shit and cool interviews. We’re pumped about the whole idea”

Gene Simmons pops the big question

2011-07-27T10:37:00.004-07:00

I'm a big KISS fan, but when it comes to Gene's reality show, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, I feel as if sometimes I'm watching a sitcom comedy, its too "scripted" for me, so scripted I didn't even watch the last season, but this season brought in all the drama about Gene's womanizing ways, which kept me watching every episode. and after more than 25 years, Shannon had had enough of it. so last night came the season finale, and we all knew Gene would be popping the big question, but in came the scripted feel, where Gene was trying to find the right setting in Belize, but kept failing at it....c'mon Gene. well anyway, with 3 minutes left to the end of the show, Gene gets down on one knee, and ask's Shannon to marry him. now both Gene and Shannon are hardy Oscar worthy actors, but I couldn't help but feel that those last few minutes were the real deal, and if so, I'm glad Gene stepped up, the man is past 60, he's not 25 anymore, the sleeping with groupies, and doing that "rock star" thing has been done, he does not need to prove himself any longer. so we were left with the big question, did Shannon say yes? we have to wait. below you can see video of Gene getting down on one knee for yourself. leave a comment

BITCH "Be My Slave" CD/DVD re-issue out August 2nd

2011-07-22T23:52:00.001-07:00

BITCH "Be My Slave" CD/DVD re-issue out August 2nd
Features bonus "Damnation Alley" EP and live DVD

One of Metal Blade Record's original bands, Bitch, is back with a special CD/DVD re-issue. The band's classic album, Be My Slave, which could be seen in the hands of Tipper Gore as she campaigned to save our children throughout the 80s, has been repackaged with the Damnation Alley EP and a live DVD. The DVD includes Bitch's performance at the Keep It True Festival in Germany in April of 2011, along with a myriad of early 80s live performance and cable access footage. This is a must for die-hard fans and 80s metal connoisseurs.

"Not only is front-woman Betsy a tough-as-nails stone cold fox, but their first two albums are certified sleaze rock classics. 1983’s ‘Be My Slave’ is a master class in headbanging S&M soaked leather heavy metal." TrueCultHeavyMetal.com

Fans can listen to Ride In Thunder and watch a clip from the Keep It True performance right now at http://www.metalblade.com/bitch.

Be My Slave/Damnation Alley track listing:
CD
1. Right From the Start
2. Be My Slave
3. Leather Bound
4. Riding In Thunder
5. Save You From the World
6. Heavy Metal Breakdown
7. Gimme a Kiss
8. In Heat
9. Make It Real (Make It Rock)
10. World War III
1. Saturdays
12. Never Come Home
13. Damnation Alley
14. He’s Gone
15. Live for the Whip
16. Let’s Go

Bonus DVD Complete Performance at KEEP IT TRUE XIV Festival in Lauda-Königshofen / Germany, Friday April 29th 2011
The L.A. Shows:
Riding in Thunder
Walls of Love
Live For The Whip / World War III
Headbanger
Skullcrusher
Make it Real / Riding in Thunder
Be My Slave
Hot and Heavy
Leather Bound (cable access)
Be My Slave (cable access)

Twisted Sister "Double Live" DVD Review

2011-07-21T10:54:00.005-07:00

Twisted Sister have produced a hell of a DVD, two DVD's actually. it contains 2 live shows. one highlights the band from 1982, this show was their last show as a "club band" as they were headed across the atlantic to record their debut album "Under The Blade" they tore up the stage that night, especially vocalist Dee Snider. in my opinion, Dee is one of the best frontmen in music, not just in the hard rock genre, but in all of music. Dee was singing as if he were playing Madison Square Garden. the entire band was spot on. it's really great seeing Twisted Sister live before their huge commercial success that came with their release "Stay Hungry". this disc also contains brand new interviews from all 5 members about their feelings as they left the New York club scene to become an international phenomenon.

The 2nd disc contains the 2001 New York Steel show. back in 2001 New York was still feeling the effects of September 11, so radio personality Eddie Trunk asked the members of twisted sister to reunite and headline the "New York Steel" to benefit the families of those firefighters and police officers that lost their lives. they agreed, and performed a solid set of classics. this disc also contains new interviews chronicling the intense inter-band chemistry. this DVD is a must have. it drops on July 26th, so go and get it.

TRACKLISTING
DISC ONE: North Stage Theater 1982
1) What You Don’t Know (Sure Can Hurt You)
2) Destroyer
3) Tear It Loose
4) Bad Boys Of Rock ‘n’ Roll
5) Lady’s Boy
6) Leader Of The Pack
7) Under The Blade
8) Shoot ‘Em Down
9) Sin After Sin
10) I’ll Never Grow Up Now
11) You Can’t Stop Rock ‘n’ Roll
12) You Know I Cry
13) It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll (But I Like It)
14) Rock N Roll Saviours

DISC TWO: New York Steel 2001
1) What You Don’t Know (Sure Can Hurt You)
2) The Kids Are Back
3) Stay Hungry
4) Burn In Hell
5) You Can’t Stop Rock ‘n’ Roll
6) Under The Blade
7) Shoot ‘Em Down
8) Come Back
9) You Know I Cry
10) I Wanna Rock
11) We’re Not Gonna Take It
12) The Price
13) S.M.F.

review by Guillermo Rascon

ANTHRAX - Worship Music Tracklisting Revealed

2011-07-19T18:31:00.001-07:00

ANTHRAX will release their new studio album, Worship Music, on September 13th in North America via Megaforce Records (September 14th in Europe via Nuclear Blast Records).

Worship Music tracklisting:

'Worship' (intro)
'Earth On Hell'
'The Devil You Know'
'Fight 'Em Til You Can't'
'I’m Alive'
'Hymn 1'
'In The End'
'The Giant'
'Hymn 2'
'Judas Priest'
'Crawl'
'The Constant'
'Revolution Screams'

Worship Music is the first new studio album from Anthrax in eight years, and the first with vocalist Joey Belladonna since 1990's Persistence Of Time.

Renowned comic book artist Alex Ross, who has worked with Marvel Comics and DC Comics and is known for his Marvels, Kingdom Come and Astro City illustrations, created the original painting for the cover. Ross also did the original artwork for Anthrax's We've Come For You All and Music of Mass Destruction albums.

Trucker Diablo Makin' Some Noise Here In The U.S.A. With "The Devil Rhythm"

2011-07-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

Artist: Trucker Diablo

Album: The Devil Rhythm

Released: 2011

Rating: ****

About a week ago, I was contacted by this bands Rep to play a few songs from their album "The Devil Rhythm" on my Podcast. Of coarse I was definitely curious and said that I would give it a listen and maybe play a track from the album. I'm really glad that I gave this a listen because this is some of the best stuff I've heard from a newer band in quite some time. The album starts with the band's latest single, "Drink Beer, Destroy", which has got to be the ultimate Party Anthem of the new Millennium. It's fast paced, in your face and raw! I love it! The bands first single from the album is up next called "Juggernaut" which is pretty heavy when it starts and gets melodic during the chorus. From here on out there's no need to take anything or drink anything to keep you awake because this album never slows down once it gets started. This album is a total full on Rock-n-Roll assault.

The band is from Northern Ireland and has become huge over there and across Europe. Their goal is to gain some momentum here in the States. And with the sound that these boys have, I see no reason why that can't happen. They are like a cross between Nickelback with a singer that sounds like James Hettfield of Metallica and some hints of Thin Lizzy for good measure. And why not! They are, after all from Ireland which is were Thin Lizzy came from! Honestly, this has got to be the best band I've heard out of Ireland since Thin Lizzy. The songs are all well written, the production here could have been a little bit better, but overall this is a damn good album. You can find it on Itunes at the moment. If your interested in this, you can check out my recent Podcast, "Rock On America" over at Spreaker.com where you'll hear the band's most recent single, "Drink Beer, Destroy". I guarantee your gonna love it! Check these guys out! I can't wait to hear more from them!

Reviewed By: JT

PRO-PAIN: New York Legends Celebrate 20 Years With CD/DVD Release

2011-07-15T13:44:00.002-07:00

Legendary New York metal/hardcore outfit PRO-PAIN are proud to be celebrating their twentieth year in existence in 2011!

Since the band’s inception in 1991, PRO-PAIN have toured the world countless times, dominated the stages of the world’s largest metal fests and infiltrated the hearts and lives of millions over the course of their incredible, and still heavily active, career. Their massive back-catalog bears thirteen full-lengths and a plethora of other releases including singles, DVDs and a live album and two greatest hits compilations to date.

PRO-PAIN now proudly unveil the details for a special release designed specifically in celebration of their twenty-year anniversary; the massive CD/DVD combo appropriately titled 20 Years Of Hardcore. Set for North American release on August 30, 2011 via AFM Records, this behemoth collection of material is much more than just a “greatest hits” or random compilation of tracks. The CD kicks off with four brand new tracks to get things moving! The disc also contains four re-recorded tracks (featuring PRO-PAIN alumni Rob Moschetti, JC Dwyer, Mike Hanzel and Eric Klinger), cover songs, and a fourteen-song live set filmed in the Czech Republic, in total bearing over 78 minutes of material! The DVD that joins the disc contains over 90 minutes of additional material, including tons of live footage featuring several full concerts, as well as fan-filmed footage and tons of extras, making this an absolute must-have for any fan of PRO-PAIN’s patented, groove-laden thunder.

20 Years Of Hardcore Track Listing:
CD:

New Tracks:
01. Damnation
02. Hands In The Jar
03. Someday Bloody Someday
04. True Liberation

Re-recorded Tracks:
05. Foul Taste Of Freedom 2011
06. Make War (Not Love) 2011
07. Denial 2011
08. Shine 2011

Cover track:
09. Keine Amnestie für MTV

Live In Brno (CZ)
10. Unrestrained
11. Three Minutes Hate
12. Can You Feel It
13. UnAmerican
14. Neocon
15. No Way Out
16. Fuck It
17. Draw Blood
18. The Shape Of Things To Come
19. In For The Kill
20. Let The Blood Run Through The Streets
21. Foul Taste Of Freedom
22. All For King George
23. Destroy The Enemy

DVD:

Beograd Concert – SKC 1998:
01. Shine
02. Make War (Not Love)
03. State Of Mind
04. The Stench Of Piss
05. Life’s Hard
06. Get Real
07. Time
08. Foul Taste Of Freedom
09. Crush
10. Box City
11. Blood Red
12. Bad Blood

Live at With Full Force:
01. Casualties Of War – 2002
02. UnAmerican – 2005
03. Fuck It – 2007

Live At Lausitzring 2005:
01. Neocon
02. One World Ain’t Enough
03. Left For Dead
04. Life’s Hard
05. Get Real

Fan Filmed Footage:
01. Iraqnophobia 1993
02. Johnny Black 1996
03. Act Of God 1999
04. Smokin’ Gun 1999
05. Implode 2005

Rare Clips From The Vault:
A montage of old rare footage

Official Promo Video:
“Down For The Cause”

Aggressive, meticulous, passionate, righteous – all distinguishing traits that have come to symbolize the fundamentals of metal/hardcore pioneers PRO-PAIN. Since their crushing debut album Foul Taste Of Freedom stormed onto the scene in 1992, PRO-PAIN have become a household name of heavy music listeners around the globe. Their successful and enviable career has perpetually prospered throughout its course and yet they still manage to find room to improve, and more importantly, impress.

Formed by vocalist/bassist Gary Meskil (ex-Crumbsuckers), PRO-PAIN have over the years benefited from substantial support from an ever-growing and loyal fanbase, international extreme music press and media, hard rock radio, MTV’s Headbangers Ball, and more, helping the band’s worldwide catalog sales approach one million units to date.

http://www.pro-pain.com
http://www.myspace.com/propainspace
http://www.afm-records.de
http://www.myspace.com/afmrecordsgermany

Anthrax 'Worship Music" album cover art

2011-07-15T13:00:00.002-07:00

Anthrax is revealing the CD cover artwork for Worship Music (photo above). Renowned comic book artist Alex Ross, who has worked with Marvel Comics and DC Comics and is known for his Marvels, Kingdom Come and Astro City illustrations, created the original painting for the cover. Ross also did the original artwork for Anthrax’s We’ve Come For You All and Music of Mass Destruction albums.

Life Of Agony singer Keith Caputo set to become a woman

2011-07-15T12:04:00.001-07:00

Life Of Agony's Keith Caputo has said he is undergoing surgery to become a woman.

The singer, who is currently on a farewell tour with the Brooklyn metal band, has begun to refer to himself as "her" on his official website Keithcaputo.com and has tweeted that he will be undergoing a sex change.

He wrote on Twitter.com/KeithMinaCaputo: "Male to female transsexuals like me are the women who give up male privilege for femininity! Threaten the patriarchy!" He also responded to a question from a fan about the demise of the metal band by replying: "Life Of Agony has already gone into isolation and it's got nothing to do with me transitioning [to a woman]."

TESTAMENT - New Album Title Revealed; ANTHRAX, DEATH ANGEL, OVERKILL Tour Set For Fall

2011-07-14T12:36:00.003-07:00

Long-running San Francisco Bay Area thrashers TESTAMENT have confirmed The Dark Roots Of Earth as the title of their new album, tentatively due in October via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD is currently being recorded with British producer Andy Sneap (MEGADETH, EXODUS, ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE) and is the follow-up to 2008's The Formation Of Damnation.

As previously reported, due to an undisclosed serious injury, drummer Paul Bostaph will not be able to participate in the recording of the as yet untitled album. Gene Hoglan (DEATH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, FEAR FACTORY), who played on Testament's 1997 album Demonic, will be handling drum duties, with LAMB OF GOD's Chris Adler set to make a special guest appearance on a couple of bonus tracks.

Motorhead's Wurzel Passes Away

2011-07-09T13:23:00.003-07:00

It has been confirmed over at blabbermouth.net:

According to a posting on the Facebook page of Tim Butcher, MOTÖRHEAD leader Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister's longtime bass tech and "right-hand man," former MOTÖRHEAD guitarist Michael "Würzel" Burston died earlier today (Saturday, July 9). He was 61 years old.

Before joining MOTÖRHEAD in 1984, Burston had been a corporal in the Army, serving in Germany and Ireland with the 1st Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment, and had played in the bands BASTARD and WARFARE. Joining another relatively unknown guitarist, Phil Campbell, they played together at a MOTÖRHEAD audition, and both were taken on.

Burston acquired the nickname Würzel while in the Army, being compared to the character Worzel Gummidge due to his scarecrow-style hair and bumpkin-like manner. Lemmy reportedly demanded that Würzel add an umlaut to the "U" in his name, for "heavy metal effect."

Würzel can be heard on the following MOTÖRHEAD albums:

* No Remorse (1984)
* Orgasmatron (1986)
* Rock 'n' Roll (1987)
* Nö Sleep at All (1988)
* The Birthday Party (1990)
* 1916 (1991)
* March ör Die (1992)
* Bastards (1993)
* Sacrifice (1995)

The IamRock App rocks

2011-07-08T13:37:00.002-07:00

O.K. for the longest time I had been a hater of all things Apple. till one day I broke down and finally bought an ipod touch, and I have to admit I can't put the damn thing down! fruit ninja pisses me off, I cant seem to......well you get the idea. So a few days ago I stumble upon an app called IamRock. this 99cent app helps you create music. It's the best 99 cents I have spent in ages, so check out this youtube clip, you just might find yourself downloading this app today.

The "Rock On America" Radio Show

2011-07-07T20:17:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone, JT here! Just wanted to let everyone here at Loud Reviews know that I've started my own Podcast. Parts one and two are already finished! In this episode, I feature music from Aldo Nova, AC/DC, Nelson, Shylock, new music from Night Ranger and Black N' Blue, Aerosmith and more.

The "Rock On America" radio show is basically the product of me getting fed up with regular radio that only plays what they are told to play. With this, I can play what ever I want, from whatever band I want! Even local acts from all over the world! Want your stuff heard? Contact me at jtfelton1970@yahoo.com and I'll give you the information on how you can get your tunes heard on my show!

Of coarse the next question you may be asking yourself is am I leaving Loud Reviews for this? My answer to that is a resounding HELL NO! Honestly, G and everyone here at Loud Reviews have been wonderful to me for giving me the opportunity to write CD reviews for a large audience. I wouldn't dream of giving up that opportunity! I will continue to write for Loud Reviews as long as they will have me!

With "Rock On America", I can reach a large audience with the music that we all grew up with plus tunes that I like to call "Future Classics" which are basically new tunes. Plus, I can expose bands to America that maybe most of you have never heard of before! Maybe you've read the reviews here at Loud Reviews, but you are still unsure if you should take the chance on the band. Tune in to "Rock On America" each week and you just might hear those bands on my show! That would make your choice a whole lot easier now wouldn't it?! So check out the show! Now, I'm not going to lie to you. This my first Podcast so it is a little rough around the edges. But I will guarantee that you'll love the music! From Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Melodic Rock and Melodic Metal, I'm playing it! Even some of today's best Hard Rockers! Check out the show and become a follower today! Starting with the next show, I will start featuring a band every week that will be that week's Spotlight Artist! Who will it be? Tune in to find out! I have a whole lot more planned for future shows, so keep checking each week for the next two part episode! Thanks for listening! Here's the link for the show!
http://spreaker.com/page#!/show/rock_on_america_1

JT

Machine Head To Tour South America With Sepultura

2011-07-05T09:42:00.002-07:00

What began as a casual conversation between bands has evolved into a South American tour that will send shockwaves across the continent.

After a long absence from South America, MACHINE HEAD will make their presence felt this October, joined by the legendary Sepultura for dates in Brazil, Argentina and Chile that will surely give rabid South American fans a double-fist punch of unforgettable performances.

October will see MACHINE HEAD in full tour form after having played the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival and Australia's Soundwave Revolution tour in support of their newest crushing release, "Unto The Locust" (due September 2011). Sepultura, who will also be in full-on tour mode in support of their newest album "Kairos" are always devastating live, leaving both bands primed to deliver a set of shows that will be unlike anything South American metal fans ever dared to imagine.

MACHINE HEAD vocalist/guitarist Robb Flynn exclaims, "Going back to South America is going to be fucking rad! The crowds there are absolutely insane, it has been a long time coming and we cannot wait for this! We've been working on getting back there for a while now and this proved to be a great opportunity." Flynn adds, "This is going to crush, and having Sepultura together with us? Well, all I'll say is that these dates are going to be one hell of a monster unleashed on the crowds in Brazil, Argentina and Chile. No one will be left standing at the end of the night!"

Sepultura frontman Derrick Green adds, "We are all looking forward to touring with MACHINE HEAD in South America. It was an idea that we have had for some time and it will be a great pleasure to share the stage with them. This is a show that cannot be missed by anyone."

Sure to go down in the annals of South American metal history, this run of shows will feature two sets of master craftsmen together as you've never seen them before, don't miss your opportunity to witness it in person!

TOUR DATES:

October 14 - Sao Paulo, Brazil @ Citibank Hall

October 15 - Curitiba, Brazil @ Master Hall

October 16 - Porto Alegre, Brazil @ Casa de Gaucho

October 21 - Buenos Aires, Argentina @ El Teatro Flores

October 23 - Santiago, Chile @ Teatro Caupolican