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MARDUK TO JOIN BLACKENEDFEST 2009

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:19:12 GMT

Swedish black metal horde Marduk will set North America ablaze this spring on what will prove to be one of the most brutal tours of the year. Appropriately dubbed Blackenedfest, the band will pillage their way through 21 cities, beginning with The Fillmore in New York City on March 21st and closing at Les Foufounes Electriques in Montreal, with notorious Norwegian black metallers Mayhem. Cephalic Carnage, Cattle Decapitation and Withered will also grace the bill.

Formed by guitarist Morgan Steinmeyer H'kansson with the goal of becoming the "most blasphemous band in the world", it's been nearly a decade since Marduk last toured the states making an already punishing tour package all the more crucial. Marduk's latest album, Rom 5:12, was released in North America in May 2007 via Regain.

Said Marduk in a collective statement to fans: "We are delighted to announce Marduk's return to North America. We do not come in peace, but with flames of fire! Looking forward to see you all!"

BLACKENEDFEST TOUR DATES

5/21/2009 The Fillmore at Irving Plaza - New York, NY
5/22/2009 Sonar (as part of the Maryland Deathfest) - Baltimore, MD
5/23/2009 Ground Zero - Spartanburg, SC
5/24/2009 Club Firestone - Orlando, FL
5/26/2009 Numbers - Houston, TX
5/27/2009 The White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX
5/29/2009 Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM
5/30/2009 Clubhouse - Tempe, AZ
5/31/2009 House of Blues - San Diego, CA
6/02/2009 House of Blues - Hollywood, CA
6/03/2009 DNA - San Francisco, CA
6/04/2009 Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR
6/05/2009 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
6/06/2009 Knitting Factory Concert House - Boise, ID
6/07/2009 Gothic Theater - Denver, CO
6/09/2009 Station 4 - St Paul, MN
6/11/2009 House Of Blues - Chicago, IL
6/12/2009 Peabody�s - Cleveland, OH
6/13/2009 The Majestic Theater - Detroit, MI
6/14/2009 The Opera House - Toronto, ONT
6/15/2009 Les Foufounes Electriques - Montreal, QC

Abigail Williams vs. Headbangers Ball

Queen_Diamond — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:42:36 GMT

Abigail Williams delivered one of the finest black metal albums of 2008, In The Shadow of a Thousand Suns. Their first video for the disc, "Into the Ashes," will see its on-air debut on this week’s Headbangers Ball, which airs on Saturday from 2 to 3 AM.

Abigail Williams frontman Ken Sorceron comments on the making of the video: "We filmed the video underneath London Bridge in this dungeon-like area that they used to store dead bodies in. We felt right at home, minus the smell, of course. We actually had just returned to the UK, having completed some European dates. We had been going on eight straight weeks of touring at that point, so we were all pretty tired, but we got through it and had a good time."

Check out the video in advance at http://www.earsplitcompound.com or on the Headbangers Blog:
http://headbangersblog.mtv.com/2008/12/04/video-premiere-abigail-williams-dive-into-the-ashes/

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH TO APPEAR ON ROCKLINE JUNE 23

voodoo — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:05:53 GMT

The Los Angeles-based Five Finger Death Punch will be the featured guests on the nationally syndicated radio show ROCKLINE on Monday night June 23 at 8:30pm PT / 11:30pm ET. Fans are encouraged to call in to speak with the band at 1-800-344-ROCK (7625). For a station near you and for information regarding how to log onto the Internet for the broadcast go to www.RocklineRadio.com.

The band is currently #15 on the Active Rock radio charts with their latest single, “Never Enough.” FFDP’s previous single, “The Bleeding,” stayed in the Active Rock Top 10 for six weeks. “Never Enough” is getting great airplay all over the country, including WIIL/Chicago, KEGL/Dallas, WRIF/Detroit, KISW/Seattle, KUPD/Phoenix, KXXR/Minneapolis, KBPI/Denver, KOMP/Las Vegas, WJRR/Orlando, WRZX/Indianapolis, and WBUZ/Nashville, Music Choice, and more!!! Recently added stations include WHRL/Albany, KIOZ/San Diego, and WTPT/Greenville.

Five Finger Death Punch will be heading out this summer on the inaugural Rockstar MAYHEM Festival Tour. The band has secured a spot on the Jagermeister Second Stage, alongside Machine Head and Airbourne. The tour, which features headliners Slipknot, Disturbed, Mastodon, and Dragonforce, will be kicking off July 9 in Seattle, WA.

FFDP is touring to support The Way of the Fist, which has sold over 137,000 copies since its August 2007 release. The album debuted at #165 on the Billboard Top 200 and was #5 on the Top New Artist Chart. The video for “The Bleeding” has over 1 million plays on YouTube.

Five Finger Death Punch was an underground phenomenon even before it exploded onto the Family Values Tour in 2007. Their “old-school-meets-new-school” metal was the talk of the scene, creating quite a ripple in the underground. Upholding the traditional songwriting values with the support of today’s modern sound and dynamics has paid off for FFDP. On the Rockstar MAYHEM fest this summer, audiences will see why Metal Edge calls Five Finger Death Punch “the sound of violent exhilaration, giving contemporary metal a belligerent shove in an exciting direction.”

www.myspace.com/ffdp

Five Finger Death Punch tour dates:

6/28 – Las Vegas, NV – House of Blues

6/29 – Tucson, AZ – The Rock

6/30 – Farmington, NM – Big City Night Club

7/2 – Council Bluffs, IA – WestFair Amphitheatre

7/4 – Milwaukee, WI – Summerfest

7/5 – Indianola, IA – Indianola National Balloon Launch

Five Finger Death Punch on the Rockstar MAYHEM Festival Tour:

7/09 – Seattle, WA – White River Amphitheatre

7/11 – Sacramento, CA – Sleep Train Amphitheatre

7/12 – San Francisco, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre at Mountain View

7/13 – Devore, CA – Glen Helen Pavilion

7/15 – Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center

7/16 – San Diego, CA – Coors Amphitheatre

7/18 – Phoenix, AZ – Cricket Wireless Pavilion

7/19 – Albuquerque, NM – Journal Pavilion

7/20 – Denver, CO – Coors Amphitheatre at Fiddler’s Green

7/22 – Kansas City, MO – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

7/23 – St. Louis, MO – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

7/25 – Dallas, TX – Superpages.com Center

7/26 – San Antonio, TX – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

7/27 – Houston, TX – Sam Houston Race Park

7/29 – Tampa, FL – Ford Amphitheatre

7/30 – West Palm Beach, FL – Cruzan Amphitheatre

8/01 – Virginia Beach, VA – Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheatre

8/02 – Pittsburgh, PA – Post Gazette Pavilion

8/03 – Uniondale, NY – Nassau Coliseum

8/05 – Boston, MA – Tweeter Center for Performing Arts

8/06 – Scranton, PA – Toyota Pavilion

8/08 – Toronto, Ontario, Canada – Downsview Park

8/09 – Detroit, MI – DTE Energy Music Theatre

8/10 – Chicago, IL – First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre

8/12 – Atlanta, GA – Lakewood Amphitheatre

8/13 – Indianapolis, IN – Verizon Wireless Music Center

8/15 – Camden, NJ – Susquehanna Bank Center

8/16 – Hartford, CT – New England Dodge Music Center

8/17 – Washington, DC – Nissan Pavilion

8/19 – Buffalo, NY – Darien Lake Performing Arts Center

Five Finger Death Punch Headlining Dates:

8/22 - Jacksonville, NC - Hooligan’s Music Hall

8/23 - Fayetteville, NC - Jester’s Pub

DARK CASTLE tour it up

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:26:59 GMT

Dark Castle will be hitting to road during the month of March as a warm up for the mass amount of touring expected after the release of their first full-length, Spirited Migration, due out on At A Loss Recordings in late April/early May 2009 (release date to be confirmed soon).

3/03/2009 112 House - Columbia, SC w/Cough
3/04/2009 The Hideaway - Johnson City, TN w/Cough
3/05/2009 Brooklyn Pizza - Lexington, KY w/Cough
3/06/2009 The Summit - Columbus, OH w/Cough
3/07/2009 Casa Del Kotex - Indianapolis, IN w/Cough
3/09/2009 Subterranean - Chicago, IL w/Battlefields, Irepress
3/10/2009 Borg Ward - Milwaukee, WI w/Battlefields, Irepress
3/12/2009 The Aquarium - Fargo, ND w/Battlefields, Irepress
3/13/2009 The Red Barn - Williston, ND w/Irepress
3/15/2009 The Cretin Hop - Spokane, WA
3/16/2009 The Josephine - Seattle, WA
3/17/2009 The Someday Lounge - Portland, OR
3/18/2009 Samurai Duck - Eugene, OR
3/19/2009 Stillwater - Ashland, OR
3/20/2009 On The Y - Sacramento, CA
3/21/2009 Hemlock Tavern - San Francisco, Ca
3/22/2009 Art Factory - San Jose, CA
3/25/2009 Blue Monkey - Hollywood, CA w/Ox vs. Thunderbird
3/26/2009 Bombay - Ventura, CA w/Ox vs. Thunderbird
3/27/2009 *house show - Tempe, AZ
3/28/2009 Burt's Tiki Lounge - Albuquerque, NM
3/30/2009 Emo's (inside) - Austin, TX w/Lion's of Tsavo
3/31/2009 *TBA - Dallas, TX w/Vorvadoss
4/01/2009 Downtown Music - Little Rock, AZ w/Sea Hag, Sports
4/02/2009 The Doom Room - Vicksburg, MS w/Buzzardstein, Face On Mars
4/03/2009 Mia's Pub - Shreveport, LA w/Buzzardstein, Power Pellut
4/04/2009 Saturn Bar - New Orleans, LA w/Buzzardstein
4/05/2009 Doozer's Pub - Jacksonville, FL w/Dead Commuter, Ol Scratch, Hollow Leg

BATTLEFIELDS On Tour!

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:26:17 GMT

Hailing from the depths of Minnesota and Fargo-North Dakota, BATTLEFIELDS have been touring relentlessly for the last three years and accruing massive accolades for their brutally honest music and astounding live performances. BATTLEFIELDS have stepped up to the plate and created an instant classic in Thresholds of Imbalance that encompasses a new direction in extreme and epic mind-expansive music. Recorded at The Devil's Workshop in Minnesota and mastered by Nick Zampiello at New Alliance Audio, Thresholds of Imbalance is an essential release for fans of Mastodon, Katatonia, Torche, Khanate, Pelican, Creation is Crucifixion and Tool.

BATTLEFIELDS are currently preparing for more than a month's worth of US tour dates with Irepress. The tour will kick off on March 6th at The Factory in Rochester, MI and wind down April 9th at Washington Street Art Gallery in Vermillion, SD.

Battlefields US Tour 2009 With Irepress
3/06/2009 The Factory - Rochester, MI w/ The Atlas Moth
3/07/2009 Mac's Bar - Lansing, MI w/ The Plague Years
3/09/2009 Subterranean - Chicago, IL w/ Dark Castle, The Atlas Moth
3/10/2009 Bong Ward - Milwaukee, WI w/ Dark Castle
3/11/2009 Triple Rock Social Club - Minneapolis, MN w/ Vernal Pool
3/12/2009 The Aquarium - Fargo, ND w/ Dark Castle, Vernal Pool
3/13/2009 Nutty's North - Sioux Falls, SD **INIT FEST** w/ Battlefields, The Blinding Light
3/14/2009 Saddle Creek Bar - Omaha, NE w/ Hammerlord (w/o Irepress)
3/15/2009 Ghost House - Lincoln, NE w/ Mother Pile, Towers
3/16/2009 Eagles Lodge - Wichita, KS w/ polarOppositebear
3/18/2009 Reno's Chop Shop - Dallas, TX w/ Zoroaster
3/19 - 3/21/2009 Austin, TX, as part of SXSW
3/22/2009 Red 7 - Austin TX w/ Pelican, Wolves in the Throne Room, Tombs
3/23/2009 Zepplin’s - El Paso, TX
3/24/2009 The Living Room - Tuscon, AZ w/ Hellas Mounds, North
3/26/2009 Back to the Grind - Riverside, CA w/ Name
3/27/2009 The Knitting Factory (Alter Knit) - Los Angeles, CA w/ Name, Behol the Monolith
3/28/2009 *TBA - San Francisco, CA
3/29/2009 Paradise Lost - Chico, CA w/ Name
3/30/2009 Samurai Duck - Eugene, OR
3/21/2009 Kelly’s Olympian - Portland, OR w/ Paranaut, Nanda Devi
4/01/2009 The Funhouse - Seattle, WA w/ Sioux City Pete & The Beggars
4/02/2009 Gusto Bar (skate ramps in bar!) - Boise, ID
4/03/2009 Burt’s Tiki Lounge - Salt Lake City, UT w/ Nine Worlds
4/04/2009 Three Kings - Denver, CO w/ Mustangs & Madras, Adai
4/05/2009 Jackpot Saloon - Lawrence, KS w/ The Cast Pattern
4/06/2009 Fubar - St. Louis, MO

Battlefields (w/o Irepress)
4/07/2009 Mojo's - Columbia, MO
4/08/2009 *TBA - Iowa City, IA
4/09/2009 Washington Street Art Gallery - Vermillion, SD

CANDLELIGHT RECORDS SIGNS ANAAL NATHRAKH

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:24:30 GMT

Candlelight Records today confirms the worldwide signing of England’s Anaal Nathrakh. The popular extreme metal duo are currently in the studio working on their label debut titled In The Constellation Of The Black Widow. The album is expected for a summertime release. Vocalist V.I.T.R.I.O.L. says, “Candlelight have shown a strong belief in Anaal Nathrakh and looking at some of the acts on their roster both past and present it seems they are capable of backing up their good intentions. With their help we hope we can finally get the planet cracked in half.”

Formed in 1998, Anaal Nathrakh have recorded five full-length albums, their most recent Hell Is Empty and All The Devils Are Here released in 2007 via Feto Records (co-owned by member Mick Kenney and Napalm Death’s Shane Embury). Based in Birmingham, the band sonically fuse traditional black metal with elements of industrial, grindcore, and early-day death metal resulting in a one-of-a-kind soundscape that has earned them high acclaim from media and fans around the globe. Reviewing 2005’s album Eschaton Blabbermouth called the band, “the best at marrying drum machine grind, speed riffing death, and bombastic black metal grandeur to a depraved, filthy and overdriven musical framework. Malevolence oozes from every note, brooding insanity in every scream, and a mastery of just what makes extreme metal such a dark and difficult pleasure. Sick, ugly, essential.”

Commenting on the new album, V.I.T.R.I.O.L. reveals, “Constellation will be faster, more insidious, more ominous, more musically dextrous and wilder than ever before. The album will feature a curve ball guest appearance from Zeitgeist Memento of Mexican extremists Republika.”

According to the band’s official website, Anaal Nathrakh was created for one purpose - to be the soundtrack for Armageddon and the true spirit of necro taken to its musical extremes. The band have collaborated with such legendary figures as Attila Csihar (Mayhem), Shane Embury and Danny Herrera (Napalm Death), Nick Barker (Testament, Dimmu Borgir), Joe Horvath (Circle of Dead Children), Sethlans Teitan (Watain) and more. The band have appeared on BBC’s Radio 1 (per the behest of icon John Peel), headlined a stage at the annual Inferno Festival in Norway, and have found themselves included among countless ‘Best Album of the Year’ polls around the world. Anaal Nathrakh’s status as one of the leading lights in extreme metal is undeniable.

ALL THAT REMAINS ANNOUNCE METALFEST "WARM-UP" SHOWS

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:23:33 GMT

The Massachusetts quintet ALL THAT REMAINS, whose current single "Two Weeks" is climbing the charts at active rock radio, have confirmed two warm-up concerts prior to their headlining appearance at the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in Worcester, Mass. on Apr. 17. The dates are as follows:

4/14 Higher Ground - Burlington, Vt. w/ August Burns Red
4/15 Lost Horizon - Syracuse, N.Y. w/ August Burns Red, Unholy

These three shows mark the group's first American concerts in five months. The band will play additional dates throughout the spring, including the Rock on the Range Festival in Columbus, Ohio in mid-May alongside Motley Crue, Slipknot and three dozen others. They will also perform live at the inaugural Epiphone Revolver Golden Gods Awards at Club Nokia in Los Angeles on April 7.

ALL THAT REMAINS just completed a successful European co-headlining tour with The Haunted and is currently touring Australia as part of the Soundwave Festival, which also features Nine Inch Nails, Alice In Chains and Lamb of God, among others. From there, the band will head to Japan to support Dragonforce.

"Australia is fucking awesome," says vocalist Phil Labonte. "Everyone has told us over and over, 'Wait 'till you get to Australia. It's amazing – you're gonna love it!' They were right – it's amazing down here. The first show we played was in Brisbane, and as soon as I walked backstage to get ready, I heard people starting to chant 'ATR! ATR!' When you've never even played in a country and people are chanting for you before you play, there's no better feeling in the world."

For a complete list of upcoming ALL THAT REMAINS tour dates, visit www.myspace.com/allthatremains.

Southern Lord invades SXSW 2009

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:21:48 GMT

Southern Lord will be swarming the masses with showcases, in-store performances and tons more at this year's South By Southwest conference in Austin, Texas:

Friday, March 20th
First, a Southern Lord showcase at Snake Eyes Vinyl (outside); 1101 Navasota St. 3, Austin TX
featuring:
12:30 - It's Casual
1:30 - Eagle Twin
2:30 - Black Cobra
3:30 - Thou

Then later that night, the SXSW Southern Lord showcase at Emo's! This is one of the label's most important and potent showcases ever, featuring some of the label's most prominent contemporary acts (including Wolves In The Throne Room, Wino), some of the label's newest signings (Black Cobra, Eagle Twin, Pelican) and plenty of other hearty acts including Thou and It's Casual... A night of massive riffery and debauchery for all!

Emo's Annex; 603 Red River, Austin TX
featuring:
7:30 - It's Casual
8:25 - Thou
9:20 - Eagle Twin
10:15 - Black Cobra
11:10 - Wino (solo)
12:05 - Wolves In The Throne Room
1:00 - Pelican

Saturday, March 21st
Scott "Wino" Weinrich will be performing a solo acoustic set at High Times Magazine's 2009 Doobie Awards party.
The party is from "high" Noon through 6 PM at Red 7; 611 E. 7th Street

Sunday, March 22nd
Southern Lord artists Wolves In The Throne Room and newest label signings Pelican will be playing at Red 7; 611 E. 7th Street

SKELETONWITCH UNVEILS NEW VIDEO, ANNOUNCES MORE TOUR DATES

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:14:03 GMT

Sacrifice For The Slaughtergod," the new music video from Ohio quintet SKELETONWITCH, premiered today on MySpace Metal (www.myspace.com/metal). The track comes from the group's acclaimed Prosthetic Records debut, Beyond The Permafrost.

SKELETONWITCH has performed more than 250 concerts over the past two years and continues to add dates to its busy spring schedule, which commences tonight with an in-store performance at Criminal Records in Atlanta. The group will remain in town tomorrow to play the inaugural Scion Rock Fest. Soon after, the band will team with labelmates Kylesa for the "Southern Discomfort" tour, which includes a stop at South By Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Tex. SKELETONWITCH will then spend April touring alongside Amon Amarth.

The band's complete touring schedule – which includes newly confirmed shows in Columbus, Ohio and Louisville, Ky., as well as several new dates with Amon Amarth – is below.

2/27 Criminal Records - Atlanta, GA (in-store performance with Kylesa, Withered)
2/28 Masquerade - Atlanta, GA (Scion Rock Fest w/ Mastodon, High On Fire, Neurosis, etc.)
3/6 Ravari Room - Columbus, OH (w/ Early Man)
3/12 Uncle Pleasants - Louisville, KY (w/ Misery Index, Tony Danza Tapdance Extravaganza)
3/13 Milestone - Charlotte, NC*
3/14 Hideaway - Johnson City, TN*
3/15 Muse - Nashville, TN*
3/16 Downtown Music - Little Rock, AR*
3/17 Hi-Tone - Memphis, TN*
3/18 Club Dada - Dallas, TX*
3/19 Rock Bottom - San Antonio, TX*
3/20 Red 7 - Austin, TX (SXSW)*
3/21 Rudyard's - Houston, TX*
3/22 Candle Factory - New Orleans, LA*
3/24 Brass Mug - Tampa, FL*
3/25 The Jinx - Savannah, GA*
3/26 Lucky's Pub - Wilmington, NC*
3/27 Rocket Club - Asheville, NC*
3/28 The Nick - Birmingham, AL
4/10 Marquee - Tempe, AZ**
4/11 Sunshine Theater – Albuquerque, NM**
4/12 Gothic Theatre – Denver, CO**
4/14 Pop's – St. Louis, MO**
4/15 Diamond Ballroom – Oklahoma City, OK**
4/16 Granada Theater – Dallas, TX**
4/17 White Rabbit – San Antonio, TX**
4/18 Meridian – Houston, TX**
4/20 Headliners – Louisville, KY**
4/21 Peabody's – Cleveland, OH**
4/22 Town Ballroom – Buffalo, NY**
4/23 Mr. Smalls – Pittsburgh, PA**
4/24 Starland Ballroom – Sayreville, NJ**
4/25 Webster Theater – Hartford, CT**
4/26 Sonar – Baltimore, MD**
4/28 Norva – Norfolk, VA**
4/29 Volume 11 – Raleigh, NC**
4/30 Masquerade – Atlanta, GA**
5/1 Club Firestone – Orlando, FL**
5/2 Revolution - Ft. Lauderdale, FL**
* w/ Kylesa
** w/ Amon Amarth

SUNN O))) release details for Monoliths & Dimensions

Queen_Diamond — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:20:19 GMT

SUNN O))) is proud to present their 7th studio album, after 10 years of existence, entitled Monoliths & Dimensions. The album showcases the core guitar duo - Stephen O’Malley and Greg Anderson - incorporating influences from a plethora of guest musicians, bringing the SUNN O))) sound to epic new levels. The band also collaborated with composer Eyvind Kang (notable for his work with John Zorn, Marc Ribot, Bill Frisell, etc.) on various acoustic ensembles, in addition to the Helios fueled electric guitars and basses. Key players on the album include Australian guitar genius Oren Ambarchi, enigmatic Hungarian vocalist Attila Csihar (Mayhem, Tormentor, etc.) and slow music godfather Dylan Carlson (Earth), as well as Julian Priester (worked with Sun Ra in the 50s, John Coltrane’s African Brass band, and Herbie Hancock’s Sextant band) and new-music horn player Stuart Dempster. There’s also an upright bass trio, French & English horns, harp & flute duo, piano, brass, reed & strings ensembles, and a Viennese woman’s choir led by Persian vocal savant Jessika Kenney.

The album is not "SUNN O))) with strings" or "metal meets orchestra" material. The band took an approach concentrating on more of allusion toward the timbre of feedback and the instruments involved, so the piece is really illusory, beautiful and not entirely linear, stating that the end product is "the most musical piece we’ve done, and also the heaviest, powerful and most abstract set of chords we've laid to tape" The album was recorded and mixed by Randall Dunn & Mell Dettmer at various points over the last 2 years, and will be released late May 2008. Monoliths & Dimensions is practice in density, gravity and momentum.

Monoliths & Dimensions track listing:
Aghartha (17:34)
Big Church [megszentségteleníthetetlenségeskedéseitekért] (09:43)
Hunting & Gathering (Cydonia) (10:02)
Alice (16:21)

WITHERED LOOKS AHEAD TO A 'FEST'-IVE SPRING

Queen_Diamond — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:18:14 GMT

The "tortured blackened doom" Georgia quartet WITHERED – who recently wrapped up a national tour with Watain and labelmates Book of Black Earth, and whose recently released Folie Circulaire was named one of Decibel Magazine's Top 40 albums of 2008 – is currently preparing for a busy spring that will see the band play three of the most significant metal festivals of the season.

First up is the inaugural Scion Rock Fest, which takes place later this month in the band's Atlanta hometown. There, WITHERED will play alongside Mastodon, Neurosis, High on Fire and many more. Says vocalist/guitarist Mike Thompson, "We're incredibly excited to be a part of this. Big thanks to the Scion crew (especially Adam) for inviting us to participate in this unprecedented event. Hell, I couldn't have put together a better lineup myself. I've never attended, much less performed at, a fest where there were so many bands I'd climb over my own mother to see live! This one will be truly historical for Atlanta, and for this generation of hard rock/metal fans."

Soon after, WITHERED will perform on day two of the 11th Annual New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in Worcester, Mass., where they'll play alongside Lamb of God, Children of Bodom and many of the band's Prosthetic Records labelmates. On the way to and from New England, the band will also play a handful of headlining shows. "It's great to be a part of this fest, as we had a blast in 2006 and can't wait to do it again," Thompson says. "The lineup looks fantastic and it'll be great to rub elbows with the likes of Napalm Death, Suffocation and all the other incredible bands playing. New England is one of the oldest events in extreme music, and everyone should experience it at least once in their life, so make it out if you can and have a few beers with us."

Finally, WITHERED was just announced as one of the participants in the inaugural "Blackenedfest," which will see the band team with Mayhem, Marduk, Cattle Decapitation and Cephalic Carnage for a month-long tour. "We're very honored to take part in this tour," Thompson says. "Mayhem, Marduk, Cephalic and Cattle Decap are all veterans of extreme metal, and each has had a significant impact on the scene. Just being around these bands everyday will help drive our focus and performances to new levels. We'll be faced with warming up the crowds each night, but it's a welcome responsibility. It'll be great to see our fans again while also, hopefully, earning some new ones. We'll be performing selections from both of our full-length albums, and we might even pull out a new song or two just to give our dedicated fans something fresh to chew on. We'll see everyone on the road!"

Four tracks from Folie Circulaire – including a cover of Necrophobic's "Into Armageddon" – can currently be streamed on the band's MySpace page, www.myspace.com/withered. The album was produced by Kylesa's Phillip Cope (Baroness), and it features artwork by Paul Romano (Trivium, The Acacia Strain, Mastodon).

WITHERED on tour:

2/13 Warehouse - Atlanta, GA
2/20 Ground Zero - Spartanburg, SC
2/27 Criminal Records - Atlanta, GA (free in-store performance)
2/28 Masquerade - Atlanta, GA (Scion Rock Fest)
4/15 Sonar - Baltimore, MD
4/16 Union Pool - Brooklyn, NY
4/17 Palladium - Worcester, MA (New England Metalfest)
4/18 The M Room - Philadelphia, PA
4/19 Volume 11 - Raleigh, NC
5/21 The Fillmore at Irving Plaza - New York, NY*
5/23 Ground Zero – Spartanburg, SC*
5/24 Club Firestone - Orlando, FL*
5/26 Numbers - Houston, TX*
5/27 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX*
5/29 Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM*
5/30 Clubhouse - Tempe, AZ*
5/31 House of Blues - San Diego, CA*
6/2 House of Blues - Hollywood, CA*
6/3 DNA - San Francisco, CA*
6/4 Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR*
6/5 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA*
6/6 Knitting Factory - Boise, ID*
6/7 Gothic Theater - Denver, CO*
6/9 Station 4 - St. Paul, MN*
6/11 House of Blues - Chicago, IL*
6/12 Peabody's - Cleveland, OH*
6/13 Majestic Theater - Detroit, MI*
6/14 Opera House - Toronto, ON*
6/15 Foufounes Electriques - Montreal, QC*
* Blackenedfest w/ Mayhem, Marduk, Cephalic Carnage, Cattle Decapitation

ALL THAT REMAINS checks in from Europe, continues U.S. radio and sales chart success

Queen_Diamond — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 08:16:13 GMT

Quintet confirmed for New England Metal and Hardcore Festival, Rockstar Mayhem tour

Massachusetts metallers ALL THAT REMAINS are nearing the end of a successful European co-headlining tour with legendary Swedish thrashers The Haunted, a trek that concludes Feb. 15 in Brussels, Belgium. From there, the band will head to Australia, where they'll play the Soundwave Festival series alongside Nine Inch Nails, Lamb of God, Alice In Chains, recent U.S. tourmates In Flames and many more.

ALL THAT REMAINS will then travel to Japan, where they'll play with Dragonforce (with whom they toured America in 2006), before finally returning Stateside in April, when they will headline the first night of the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in Worcester, Mass. The band will perform additional dates throughout the spring before spending the summer as part of the Rockstar Mayhem tour; further details will be revealed in the near future.

"It's been a while since we've been overseas and I wasn't sure what to expect," vocalist Phil Labonte says, "but many shows have been sold-out and we're hearing similar things about the rest of the tour. We were really excited to play Gothenburg. There are so many bands from there that were so influential to us and lots of other bands who are from our area. I mean, right now I'm on tour with The Haunted! That band has had such a huge impact on the sound of ATR over the years. We're also really excited for our first trip to Australia – good times all in all!"

The new ALL THAT REMAINS album, Overcome, has already sold more than 120,000 copies in America since its September street date – the group's third release to cross the six-figure mark domestically. Following its #16 debut, the album to date has spent 12 weeks on the Billboard Top 200. Meanwhile, their single "Two Weeks" continues to receive impressive radio support around the country, and currently sits at #20 on the active rock radio chart (click here to view a list of stations).

The band's music video for "Two Weeks" – recently voted the second-best clip of 2008 by viewers of MTV2's "Headbangers Ball" – is now available for purchase on iTunes, as are the music videos for all of their prior releases. The ATR iTunes store can be accessed at this location: www.tinyurl.com/atritunes

ALL THAT REMAINS on tour:

2/12 Exhaus – Trier, Germany*
2/13 Melkweg – Amsterdam, Holland*
2/14 Nouveau Casino – Paris, France*
2/15 AB Box – Brussels, Belgium*
2/21 RNA Showgrounds – Brisbane, Australia (Soundwave Festival)
2/22 Eastern Creek Raceway – Sydney, Australia (Soundwave Festival)
2/25 The Forum – Sydney, Australia
2/27 Melbourne Showgrounds – Melbourne, Australia (Soundwave Festival)
2/28 Bonython Park Oval – Adelaide, Australia (Soundwave Festival)
3/2 Steel Blue Oval – Perth, Australia (Soundwave Festival)
3/26 Zepp Fukuoka – Fukuoka, Japan***
3/27 Zepp Osaka – Osaka, Japan***
3/30 Zepp Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan***
4/1 Zepp Sendai – Sendai, Japan***
4/4 Zepp Sapporo – Sapporo, Japan***
4/17 Palladium – Worcester, Mass. (New England Metal and Hardcore Festival)
7/10 Sleep Train Amphitheatre – Sacramento, CA**
7/11 Shoreline Amphitheatre – San Francisco, CA**
7/12 Glen Helen Pavilion – San Bernardino, CA**
7/14 White River Amphitheater – Seattle, WA**
7/17 Cricket Pavilion – Phoenix, AZ**
7/18 Journal Pavilion – Albuquerque, NM**
7/19 Fiddler's Green Amphitheater – Denver, CO**
7/21 Sandstone Amphitheater – Kansas City, MO**
7/22 Verizon Wireless Amph – St. Louis, MO**
7/24 Lakewood Amph – Atlanta, GA**
7/25 Verizon Wireless Music Center – Indianapolis, IN**
7/26 First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre – Tinley Park, IL**
7/28 Molson Amphit – Toronto ON**
7/29 Toyota Pavilion – Scranton, PA**
7/31 Blossom Music Center – Cleveland, OH**
8/1 Post Gazette Pavilion – Pittsburgh, PA**
8/2 DTE Energy Music Theatre – Detroit, MI**
8/4 Comcast Center for the Performing Arts – Boston, MA**
8/6 Virginia Beach Amphithea – Virginia Beach, VA**
8/7 Susquehanna Bank Center – Camden, NJ**
8/8 New England Dodge Music Center – Hartford, CT**
8/9 Nissan Pavilion – Washington, D.C.**
8/11 Ford Amphitheatre – Tampa, FL**
8/12 Cruzan Amphitheatre – West Palm Beach, FL**
8/14 SuperPages.com Center – Dallas, TX**
8/15 Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion – Houston, TX**
8/16 Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre – San Antonio, TX**

* w/ The Haunted
** Rockstar Mayhem festival
*** w/ Dragonforce

PROGRESSIVE NATION 2009 - North American Summer Tour!

voodoo — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 05:16:13 GMT

DREAM THEATER’S “PROGRESSIVE NATION 2009” TO TOUR NORTH AMERICA IN JULY/AUG WITH SPECIAL GUESTS ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA, PAIN OF SALVATION AND BEARDFISH

New York progressive metal veterans DREAM THEATER will take their PROGRESSIVE NATION tour back on the road for its second incarnation with a run through America and Canada in July/Aug 2009.

In addition to a headlining set by DREAM THEATER, this year’s package will feature the outstanding musicianship of ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA as well as two incredibly talented imports from Sweden: PAIN OF SALVATION and BEARDFISH.

PROGRESSIVE NATION was created by DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy and its successful inaugural run in 2008 also featured OPETH, BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME and THREE.

Portnoy once again hand-picked all of the bands for the 2009 bill based on their diversity and musicality. He comments: “This year’s lineup is so exciting for me. Every band is bringing something very unique to the package to create an incredibly well rounded musical experience. I am just as excited to be watching all the bands from the side of the stage as I am to be performing with mine in the center of it!”

Fresh on the heels of his Grammy win, Dweezil Zappa is pleased to announce his plans to join forces with Dream Theater as part of the Progressive Nation 2009 tour: "It's no secret that I started ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA with the intention to diversify and expand the audience for my father's music. I figured I'd probably have to do it one concert at a time. Playing with DREAM THEATER on the PROGRESSIVE NATION tour is a great way to accomplish that goal. Music fans who are seeking something to challenge their senses should definitely consider attending this great bill."

Portnoy adds, “It is an absolute honor for me to have ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA on board. Frank Zappa is one of my all-time biggest heroes and his music practically invented the term ‘progressive’. Dweezil is doing an amazing job carrying on the tradition of his father’s daring spirit and like his dad, has surrounded himself with a band of jaw-dropping, incredible musicians”

Sweden’s PAIN OF SALVATION will bring their unique brand of cutting-edge progressive metal to PN09. Vocalist/Guitarist Daniel Gildenlow comments: “We are truly very happy to be part of the PN09 tour, and to be back in the States again and bring all the sweat and flesh to our music and our well deserving American fans. We feel honored to have been asked.”

Gildenlow also joked, “Actually, Mike has been on our backs now for two years in what we believe to be a personal campaign, bordering on harassment, to make us come over. So when he asked us about PN09, it was a joy to finally be able to say yes. And if Mike didn't give up on us, then hopefully America hasn't either.”

Vocalist/Keyboardist Rikard Sjöblom of BEARDFISH is equally excited: "When we read on a website that Mike Portnoy had our album "Sleeping in Traffic Part 1" among his favorite releases of 2007, we just couldn't believe it and we were really happy about it! And now we once again gasp for air since we've been asked to join PROGRESSIVE NATION 2009 together with DREAM THEATER (one of the biggest bands in this genre today!), PAIN OF SALVATION (hey, fellow Swedes!!!) and ZAPPA PLAYS ZAPPA (being a HUGE Zappa fan myself, I think this is really cool!). Since we've only played the US once before we simply can't wait to come over and rock out!"

PROGRESSIVE NATION will be the first North American tour for DREAM THEATER in support of their newest Roadrunner Records release which is slated for a June 2009 release.

For more information, including dates to be announced soon, visit:
www.progressivenation2009.com (coming soon)
www.dreamtheater.net
www.myspace.com/dreamtheater

[img]http://www.mikeportnoy.com/images/pn09.jpg[/img]

THE ETERNAL Australian tour, more USA/EURO dates coming

Queen_Diamond — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 12:12:12 GMT

THE ETERNAL 'KARTIKA' AUSTRALIAN TOUR FEB/MARCH, 2009

Released in November 2008, THE ETERNAL's latest album 'Kartika,' is the
bands most diverse and ambitious album to date. With lush vocal harmonies
and carefully detailed arrangements, 'Kartika' takes the listener through
varied soundscapes, from the emotive 'Brighter Day' and 'Walk Beside You'
to the eastern influenced epic 'Blood'. Catchy, melodic, dark and
beautiful, The Eternal have not sat safely behind the sound created on
their previous albums, and in turn have managed to push forward and break
new ground.

Set to embark on a world tour that is also taking in Japan, Mexico, Europe
and North America, The Eternal kick it off with an Australian tour in
February/March. Tour dates, supports, and venue details below!

Sat, Feb 21@ The Enigma Bar, Adelaide, SA
Doors: 8:30pm, Entry: $12
- With Universum, Black Orchid & Saeturnum

Fri, March 6@ The Arthouse, Melbourne, VIC
Doors: 8pm, Entry: $12
- With Darker Half (NSW), A State of Flux, Divine Ascension

Sat, March 7@ The Peninsula Lounge, Mooroduc, VIC
Doors: 8pm, Entry: $12
- With Dialysis, A State of Flux

Thu, March 12@ Brannigan's Tavern, Gold Coast, QLD
Doors: 8:30pm, Entry: $10
- With The Matador & Dead Letter Opener

Fri, March 13@ Monstrothic (Rosies Live), Brisbane, QLD
Doors: 8pm, Entry: $12
- With Arcane, Mythology & Leadlight Rose

Sat, March 14@ Barwon Club, Geelong, VIC
Doors: 8pm, Entry: $12
- With Mushroom Giant, Allan Campbell & Rainshadow

Fri, March 20@ The Sandringham Hotel, Sydney, NSW
Doors: 8pm, Entry: $12
- With Darker Half & Destend

Earsplit wants to spice up your life with some Nashville Pussy

Queen_Diamond — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 12:10:03 GMT

They're back to kick your ass!

For over a decade, Nashville Pussy has been bringing the fire and spirit of REAL rock n' roll to stages all across the planet. With four acclaimed full-lengths and a Grammy nomination in tow, the band has honed their most impressive recording to date in the form of From Hell To Texas.

Indeed, From Hell To Texas stacks up perfectly against other masterful 'Pussy classics such as Let Them Eat Pussy and High As Hell As always, Ruyter Suys' spectacular axe-work is front and center, breathing even more whiskey-fueled passion into husband Blaine Cartwright's creations, with burners such as "I'm So High," "Drunk Driving Man," and "Pray for the Devil" leading the charge. The album was recorded at Willie Nelson's Pedernales Studio in Texas on the same two-inch tape machine which Willie himself has used to cut all of his legendary albums.

In the past year, they've continued to cement their reputation as one of the hardest working bands in the world, with tours of Australia, Brazil, Japan, Europe and most recently almost a year straight with the Reverend Horton Heat all over North America. All the while, band mastermind Cartwright (vocals, guitar), Ruyter Suys (guitar), Karen Cuda (bass) and Jeremy Thompson (drums) spent three years working on the release. "We allowed ourselves this time to give the songs the chance to turn out as perfect as possible," Cartwright explains.

2009 will be another ambitious year for Nashville Pussy. Along with the March 3rd release of the new album, the band's roadmap is already set: an exhaustive trek across Europe, followed by summer festivals and full-scale North American tour. The rock never stops.
Bottom line, Nashville Pussy is the genuine article. Accept no substitute!

Candlelight announces CIII label tour 2009

Queen_Diamond — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 07:47:59 GMT

Candlelight Records today announces its third label packaged tour for North America. Set to kick off on June 6, CIII will feature the talents of US black metal legends Absu, with support coming from France’s Glorior Belli, Austin-based Averse Sefira and Los Angeles-based Sothis. The tour will visit 22 cities throughout the US and Canada beginning in San Marcos, California and wrapping up in Dallas, Texas on June 29. Tickets for all shows go on sale exclusively at Enterthevault.com today. Tickets will go on sale through all local and online ticket agencies starting March 5.

Absu’s self-titled new album hits stores nationwide February 24. Currently featured on the cover of Metal Maniacs the album is the first to offer new material from the highly regarded metal band in nearly eight years. The Texas-based band, self-described as “mythological occult metal,” are a fan favorite the world over. Terrorizer Magazine calls the new album “a sound incarnate of a band making the underground amazing again… an undeniable masterpiece.” This will be the band’s first large-scale tour since their tour alongside Enslaved in 1997.

France’s Glorior Belli make their first trip to North America as they participate on CIII. Their sophomore record, Manifesting the Raging Beast, was released in 2007 via Southern Lord Records. The band now, signed to Candlelight, will begin recording of their label debut, titled Meet Us at the Southern Sign, this month with hopes to see it released during the tour. Popular site MetalKult said in review, “Manifesting is as darkly beautiful as it is gloom inducing."

Averse Sefira join CIII continuing to support their latest album, Advent Parallax. Time Out New York notes, “black-metal lifers Averse Sefira have become a road-hardened unit, and it shows in the blistering grooves of Advent Parallax. The fourth album of the band’s 12-year career has no gothic frills or weedy “kvlt” production, just eight battle-ready blasts jammed with parched-throat howls, scything guitar riffs, blistering drums and hooks that stick.” Their participation on the tour is their third national tour in two years having previously toured with labelmates 1349 in 2007 and with friends Immolation in early 2008.

Sothis released their debut, De Oppresso Liber, on September 2. Mixed by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond), the record has enjoyed growing and consistent sales since release. This will be the band’s first national tour. Canada’s popular Brave Words Bloody Knuckles magazine says, "behold the next big black metal band." The band is currently completing work on their first video from De Oppresso Liber for the album’s title track.

CIII follows the success of Candlelight’s previous label tours – the first in 2005 featuring Entombed, Crowbar, Pro-Pain & The Mighty Nimbus, and second in 2007 featuring Enslaved, Dark Funeral and then newcomers Abigail Williams. The label, maintaining offices in Philadelphia and London, continues to grow since launching American operations in 2001. Candlelight is distributed throughout the US exclusively via Caroline Distribution, EMI Music for Canada and Plastichead Music for the rest of the world.

Confirmed dates for CIII are:
6/06/2009 Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
6/07/2009 House of Blues - W. Hollywood, CA
6/08/2009 Thee Parkside - San Francisco, CA
6/09/2009 Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR
6/10/2009 El Corazon - Seattle, WA
6/12/2009 The Underground - Calgary, AB
6/13/2009 The Exchange - Regina SK
6/14/2009 Royal Albert Arms - Winnipeg, MT
6/15/2009 Station 4 - St. Paul, MN
6/16/2009 The Pearl Room - Mokena, IL
6/17/2009 Peabody’s - Cleveland, OH
6/18/2009 Wreck Room - Toronto, ON
6/19/2009 Petit Campus - Montreal, QC
6/20/2009 Penny Arcade - Rochester, NY
6/21/2009 BB Kings Blues Club - New York, NY
6/22/2009 Jaxx - W. Springfield, VA
6/23/2009 Volume 11 - Raleigh, NC
6/24/2009 The Muse - Nashville, TN
6/25/2009 The Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
6/26/2009 The Garage - St. Petersburg, FL
6/27/2009 Culture Room - Ft. Lauderdale, FL
6/29/2009 Firewater - Dallas, TX

Pelican sign to Southern Lord

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 15:29:30 GMT

It is with immense reverence that Southern Lord Recordings announces the signing of Chicago heavy-rock instrumental icons Pelican. Their genre-defying sound and eagerness to explore new musical directions will fit right at home alongside similar bands on the label like Earth, Boris and sunn 0))). Pelican is currently at Red Room studios in Seattle, WA recording an EP that will be their first release on Southern Lord. The new material promises to be heavier, darker and very "riff-oriented" comments guitarist Trevor De Brauw. A very special guest guitarist who has been heavily influential to the band will be making a guest appearance more details to be revealed shortly!

In March Pelican will be touring alongside new label mates Wolves In The Throne Room, including a triumphant return to the South By South West music fest in Austin, TX at the Southern Lord showcase. Upon returning home Pelican will focus their sights on their 4th full-length album.

Pelican March/April 2009 tour:
*w/Tombs, Dredg
**w/Tombs, Wolves In The Throne Room

3/15/2009 The Picador - Iowa City IA *
3/16/2009 Riot Room - Kansas City, KS *
3/17/2009 The Marquee - Tulsa, OK *
3/18/2009 Scout Bar - San Antonio, TX * plus Tricky
3/19/2009 Vino's - Little Rock, AR **
3/20/2009 Elmo's - Austin, TX @ SXSW Southern Lord Showcase w/Eagle Twin, Black Cobra, Wolves In The Throne Room, Wino, etc.
3/22/2009 Red 7 - Austin, TX **
3/25/2009 The Sets - Tempe, AZ **
3/26/2009 The Casbah - San Diego, CA **
3/27/2009 The Troubadour - West Hollywood, CA **
3/28/2009 Slim's - San Francisco, CA **
3/29/2009 Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR **
3/30/2009 Nightlight - Bellingham, WA **
3/31/2009 Neumo's - Seattle , WA **
4/02/2009 Club Vegas - Salt Lake City, UT **
4/03/2009 The Marquis Theatre - Denver , CO **
4/05/2009 Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL **

Candlelight signs Susperia

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 14:12:17 GMT

Candlelight today confirms the worldwide signing of Norway's Susperia. Currently finishing work on their fifth album, the band recently announced a string of early spring UK dates that will kick off what is expected to be a busy year for the popular Norwegian metal band. "Ten years and still the same five guys," exclaims vocalist Athera of the band's long commitment to their music. "We have worked nearly two years on this material, perfecting it for your pleasure and our devoted fans. It will take you back to the early days with melancholic riffing and dark emotional vocals. It's a perfect blend of everything Susperia has been and become."

"A blend of thrash metal drawing on influences that include Sepultura, Anthrax, and Testament," says Allmusic.com of Susperia's now highly regarded sound. The popular music portal continues its early 2005 review noting "their songs are melodic yet intense and forceful, and shredding guitars are the rule." Formed in 1998 by drummer Tjodalv (then of Dimmu Borgir) and guitarist Cyrus (then of Satyricon/Old Man’s Child), the band released their debut, Predominance, via Nuclear Blast in 2001. The band's much-acclaimed second album, Vindication, followed in 2003. Signing with Norwegian-based Tabu Records (with release in the US via Candlelight Records) in 2004, the band released their third album, Unlimited, later that year. Brave Words Bloody Knuckles called the album, "a scorcher from start to finish, on par with Testament classic The Gathering."

A powerful live act, the band has consistently remained focused to the live arena. With numerous high profile support, headline and festival appearances, one of the band's most cherished experiences thus far remains supporting the newly reformed Testament in late 2005. The dates would culminate in the release of the band's Norwegian charting mini-album Devil May Care. Work on their fourth album, Cut From Stone, would see out the end of the year. Unfortunately due to financial constraints two trie s to visit the US to support the Daniel Bergstrand-produced album during 2007/08 would set back the album’s overall sales target but the band remained committed. Touring Europe, including numerous dates with W.A.S.P, the band's ambitions stayed and continue to remain in tact. "We now have the backing of one label worldwide and this is going to make life easier for us," says bassist Memnock. "We hope that finally we get to play to our American fans."

Susperia's still untitled label debut is expected for release early summer. Recorded in Norway it was mixed at Studio Fredman in Sweden. Susperia currently includes guitarists Cyrus and Elvorn, bassist Memnock, with drummer Tjodalv and vocalist Athera.

Javelina reveals album details for upcoming record

Queen_Diamond — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:09:43 GMT

Philadelphia's Javelina (pronounced "ha-va-'lE-na") are preparing their sophomore release for Translation Loss Records and will hit Chicago this March to spend a week with Sanford Parker at Volume Studios (Pelican, Rwake, Nachtmystium, Minsk) and will be mastered by Mick Mullin at Super 8 Studios (Intronaut, Mastodon, Fight Amp). The band will be recording nine original tunes for their Translation Loss follow up to 2008's self-titled release along with a Buzzv*en cover that will be featured on a upcoming tribute record. Some song titles include... "You're Going to Hate This", "Towers of Silence", "The Black Blizzard" and "Stepchild".

Expect a late summer - early fall release on both cd/vinyl formats and check in at www.myspace.com/javelinaphiladelphia for show/tour dates and music.

Lecherous Nocturne - new album out now; US tour approaches

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:06:35 GMT

Perseverance. Determination. Integrity - Three words that unmistakably describe South Carolina's Lecherous Nocturne. Formed by guitarists Kreishloff, Chris Lollis and vocalist Hohenstein, the group has ignored every musical trend that has sprung up around them for nearly a decade, all the while building on and refining their sound through two critically hailed releases - 2003's self-titled EP, 2006's debut full-length Adoration of the Blade (Deepsend Records) and their intense, relentless live shows.

Throughout their tenure, this extreme-metal entity has endured hardships that would cripple or even kill most bands. Numerous bass and drummer changes, label shifts, a 1500 mile relocation, and even having everything they owned on tour, including their touring vehicle, stolen from them in 2007. And still... they persevere.

In 2008, fueled by theft, and an overwhelming urge to break from obscurity, the band entered Soundlab Studio in Columbia, SC to record The Age of Miracles Has Passed, out now on Unique Leader Records. Absolutely the band's most defining record to date, TAOMHP is filled with the trademark Lecherous speed, intelligence, and technicality, while building upon the brutality with refined vocals and infectious hooks certain to appeal to longtime fans of LN, as well as a legion of new ones to come.

Lecherous Nocturne are preparing to assault the US on the upcoming Metal Maniacs sponsored Grind Your Mind 2009 tour beginning late February alongside Embryonic Devourment and Sol Asunder, with more live dates and tour action to be announced soon.

Lecherous Nocturne live:
2/20/2009 Ground Zero - Spartanburg, SC

Grind Your Mind tour 2009
2/27/2009 The Black Castle - Los Angeles, CA
2/28/2009 The Metaphor Cafe - Escondido, CA
3/01/2009 The Sets - Tempe, AZ
3/02/2009 The Compound - Albuquerque, NM
3/03/2009 Chic's Billiards - El Paso, TX
3/04/2009 Reno's Chop Shop - Dallas, TX
3/05/2009 Jet Lounge - Houston, TX
3/06/2009 Dragon's Den - New Orleans, LA
3/07/2009 Brass Mug - Tampa, FL
3/08/2009 The Dungeon - Orlando, FL
3/09/2009 Lenny's Bar - Atlanta, GA
3/10/2009 The Talking Head - Baltimore, MD
3/11/2009 The Khyber - Philadelphia, PA
3/12/2009 The Smiling Moose - Pittsburgh, PA
3/13/2009 Melody Inn - Indianapolis, IN
3/14/2009 The Metal Shaker - Chicago, IL
3/15/2009 Big V’s - St. Paul, MN
3/16/2009 Boobie Trap Bar - Topeka, KS
3/17/2009 The Funhouse - Denver, CO
3/18/2009 Club Vegas - Salt Lake City, UT
3/19/2009 The Gusto Bar - Boise, ID
3/20/2009 The Comet Tavern - Seattle, WA
3/21/2009 The Red Room - Portland, OR

Wino... the live debut

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:05:13 GMT

Wino... the live debut

As a last-minute announcement... the Wino (band) will be making its debut live performance at the 9:30 club in DC on Sat. February 7th! Jean Paul Gaster (Clutch) on drums, John Blank (Rezin) on bass, and of course the man, Scott “Wino” Weinrich on guitar and vocals. King Giant & Salome will provide support.
If you're in the area, be sure not to miss this very rare live appearance!

Wino w/King Giant, Salome
2/07/2009 9:30 Club - Washington, DC

More Wino live dates and tour news will be announced soon.

NEURAXIS prepares for upcoming tours, announces video premiere

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:14:20 GMT

Montreal technical death veterans NEURAXIS – whose new album, The Thin Line Between, was named one of Metal Edge's Top 20 releases of 2008 – are currently prepping for back-to-back tours. First up is the "Montreal Assault" tour, which will see the band play alongside Despised Icon, Carnifex, The Plasmarifle and labelmates Beneath The Massacre.

"I'm looking forward to the Montreal Assault tour, mainly since we have been friends with almost all the bands for so many years now," says guitarist Rob Milley. "Some may know that Alex (Erian, Despised Icon vocalist) was once our drummer, and Maynard (Moore, The Plasmarifle vocalist) was once our vocalist, so for me it's like coming full-circle touring with these guys. Beneath The Massacre have always been close with us and I'm looking forward to meeting the dudes in Carnifex. Come out to this tour and have a good time with all of us."

"Montreal Assault" will be quickly followed by a tour alongside the legendary Cannibal Corpse. NEURAXIS says they're honored to have been hand-picked as support.

"To have the privilege to tour with such legends is truly an honor," says vocalist Alex Leblanc. "I've been listening to Cannibal Corpse forever, and I just can't wait to tear it up every night and share the stage with these icons."

In other NEURAXIS news, the band's new music video for "Darkness Prevails" will premiere on MetalSucks and Metal Injection later this week. The band filmed the clip with director Chris Alsop last fall.

NEURAXIS on tour:

1/29 Peabody's - Cleveland, OH*
1/30 Hayloft - Mt. Clemens, MI*
1/31 House Cafe - Dekalb, IL*
2/1 Vaudeville Mews - Des Moines, IA*
2/3 Marquis Theatre - Denver, CO*
2/5 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA*
2/6 Satyricon - Portland, OR*
2/7 Vet's Hall - Santa Cruz, CA*
2/8 Chain Reaction - Anaheim, CA*
2/9 Whisky - Hollywood, CA*
2/10 The Rock - Tucson, AZ*
2/11 Compound - Albuquerque, NM*
2/13 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX*
2/14 Java Jazz - Houston, TX*
2/15 Plano Center - Plano, TX*
2/17 Orpheum - Tampa, FL*
2/18 Fuel - Jacksonville, FL*
2/19 Club Hollywood - Augusta, GA*
2/20 Ground Zero - Spartanburg, SC*
2/21 Brewery - Raleigh, NC*
2/22 KC's - Fredricksburg, VA*
2/23 Sonar - Baltimore, MD*
2/24 First Unitarian Church - Philadelphia, PA*
2/25 Blender Theater - New York, NY*
2/26 Palladium - Worcester, MA*
2/27 Xtreme Wheelz - Buffalo, NY*
4/2 Orange Peel - Asheville, NC**
4/3 New Daisy Theatre - Memphis, TN**
4/4 Marquee - Tulsa, OK**
4/6 Club Vegas- Salt Lake City, UT**
4/7 Knitting Factory - Boise, ID**
4/8 Knitting Factory - Spokane, WA**
4/10 Croatian Cultural Centre - Vancouver, BC**
4/11 Habitat - Kelowna, BC**
4/12 Starlite - Edmonton, AB**
4/13 MacEwan Ballroom - Calgary, AB**
4/14 Riddell Centre - Regina, SK**
4/15 Garrick Centre - Winnipeg, MB**
4/17 Station 4 - Minneapolis, MN**
4/18 Eagles Ballroom - Milwaukee, WI**
4/19 Intersection - Grand Rapids, MI**
4/21 Medley - Montreal, QC**
4/22 Babylon - Ottawa, ON**
4/23 Le Capitole - Quebec City, QC**
4/24 The Chance - Poughkeepsie, NY**
4/25 Alley Katz - Richmond, VA**
4/26 Hooligan's Music Hall - Jacksonville, NC**
4/27 Freebird Live - Jacksonville, FL**

* w/ Despised Icon, Beneath The Massacre, Carnifex, The Plasmarifle
** w/ Cannibal Corpse, The Faceless, Obscura

SuidAkrA to release new album, announce North American tour

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:12:41 GMT

With the rise in popularity in the Pagan/Celtic Metal Scene, one of the true pioneers of the Genre is ready to take the United States scene by storm. Over their fourteen year history, SuidAkrA have stayed true to their roots and the sound that they have become known for. The German Celtic metallers are returning full steam with their ninth studio album; Crógacht Combining fast melodic death metal, Irish folk music, and a torrent of harmonies, SuidAkrA proves yet again that they possess the ability to blend several different influences into their unique sound. To put a spin on things, new elements have been introduced, like traditional instruments (bagpipes, banjo, tin whistles), a sixteen member choir and epic orchestral arrangements.

Recorded at Gernart Studios with producer Martin Muchwalter, Crógacht delivers an aural assault. In addition to that, the eyes and mind of the listener will also be pleased, as famous Belgian graphic artists Kris Verwimp is responsible not only for the magnificent artwork in the digipack and 16-page booklet, but also for the lyrics of this fascinating concept album. Crógacht, meaning bravery, is based on one of the most dramatic tales in Irish mythology. It tells the story of the hero Cuchulainn’s epic journey to the Isle of Skye, where he seeks to learn the arts of war from the Scythian warrior woman Scathach. The decisions he then has to make set the events in motion that will lead up to his son Conlaoch’s tragic fate…

With overwhelming reactions to their 2006 release, Caledonia, and their November 2008 DVD/Best of CD, 13 Years of Celtic Wartunes, SuidAkrA have performed at over 200 live shows (including the Wacken Open Air Festival five times), and successfully completed several tours in Europe, Russia, and a first-ever American tour. SuidAkrA will take part in the four week Pagan Knights North American tour starting in February 2009 before rocking stages all over Europe and beyond.

Crógacht will be released on March 3rd, 2009.

Pagan Knights Tour 2009 - SuidAkrA w/TYR, Alestorm:
02/28/2009 The Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
03/01/2009 The Backbooth - Orlando, FL
03/02/2009 The Engine Room - Tallahassee, FL
03/04/2009 Walter’s - Houston, TX
03/05/2009 Red 7 - Austin, TX
03/06/2009 Ridglea Theater - Dallas, TX
03/07/2009 The Marquee - Tusla, OK
03/09/2009 The Launchpad - Albuquerque, NM
03/10/2009 The Clubhouse - Tempe, AZ
03/11/2009 Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
03/12/2009 Knitting Factory - Hollywood, CA
03/13/2009 Thee Parkside - San Francisco, CA
03/14/2009 Satyricon - Portland, OR
03/15/2009 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
03/16/2009 Club Vegas - Salt Lake City, UT
03/17/2009 Cervantes Ballroom - Denver, CO
03/18/2009 Riot Room - Kansas City, MO
03/19/2009 Station 4 - St. Paul, MN
03/20/2009 Pearl Room - Mokena, IL
03/21/2009 Peabody’s - Cleveland, OH
03/22/2009 Blondie’s - Detroit, MI
03/23/2009 The Opera House - Toronto
03/24/2009 Club Soda - Montreal
03/25/2009 Penny Arcade - Rochester, NY
03/26/2009 31st St. Pub - Pittsburgh, PA
03/27/2009 Sonar - Baltimore, MD
03/28/2009 Sterling Hotel - Allentown, PA
03/29/2009 Highline Ballroom - New York, NY
03/30/2009 Volume 11 - Raleigh, NC

BENEATH THE MASSACRE recaps European tour, plots another

Queen_Diamond — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:00:13 GMT

Canadian tech-death quartet kicks off "Montreal Assault" tour next week
Road warriors BENEATH THE MASSACRE, whose recently released technical death opus Dystopia debuted at #22 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, kicks off another North American tour this week. The "Montreal Assault" tour, which will see the band play alongside Despised Icon, Carnifex, The Plasmarifle and labelmates Neuraxis, continues through March 1, after which BTM will headline two weeks of shows in Eastern Canada.

"We're all very excited to participate in the 'Montreal Assault' tour, and more importantly, Despised Icon’s first headlining tour in the U.S.," says vocalist Elliot Desgagnes. "They’ve been good friends of ours for years and always supportive of our band, and we feel privileged to go on that tour as direct support."

After "Montreal Assault," BTM – who kicked off their new record cycle with a Canadian tour alongside Necrophagist (Summer Slaughter Canada) and an American trek with Suicide Silence – will then return to Europe for the just-announced "Thrash and Burn" tour, co-headlined by Bleeding Through and Darkest Hour. BTM just returned from a month-long European tour alongside Cryptopsy, and the band looks forward to heading overseas once again.

"Being our biggest influence when we first started to play death metal years ago, it was amazing to share the stage and bus with the crazy guys in Cryptopsy," Desgagnes says. "Although we both come from Montreal, it was the first time we were getting to hang out with them and it was great. We also got to play with none other than Entombed! All and all, it was a great tour and were proud to have been on it.

"The two first times we went to Europe," he continues, "we were on straight-up death metal bills with bands like Misery Index and Cryptopsy. We feel that we'll be playing in front of a different crowd this time around, so we're stoked and a little anxious at the same time – but I believe BTM fans will be at the shows in big numbers, and we'll be able to turn the crowd into our own."

BENEATH THE MASSACRE on tour:

1/29 Peabody's - Cleveland, OH*
1/30 Hayloft - Mt. Clemens, MI*
1/31 House Cafe - Dekalb, IL*
2/1 Vaudeville Mews - Des Moines, IA*
2/3 Marquis Theatre - Denver, CO*
2/5 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA*
2/6 Satyricon - Portland, OR*
2/7 Vet's Hall - Santa Cruz, CA*
2/8 Chain Reaction - Anaheim, CA*
2/9 Whisky - Hollywood, CA*
2/10 The Rock - Tucson, AZ*
2/11 Compound - Albuquerque, NM*
2/13 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX*
2/14 Java Jazz - Houston, TX*
2/15 Plano Center - Plano, TX*
2/17 Orpheum - Tampa, FL*
2/18 Fuel - Jacksonville, FL*
2/19 Club Hollywood - Augusta, GA*
2/20 Ground Zero - Spartanburg, SC*
2/21 Brewery - Raleigh, NC*
2/22 KC's - Fredricksburg, VA*
2/23 Sonar - Baltimore, MD*
2/24 First Unitarian Church - Philadelphia, PA*
2/25 Blender Theater - New York, NY*
2/26 Palladium - Worcester, MA*
2/27 Xtreme Wheelz - Buffalo, NY*
2/28 Reverb - Toronto, ON*
3/1 Club Soda - Montreal, QC*
3/2 Maverick's - Ottawa, ON
3/3 Le Tremplin - Sherbrooke, QC
3/4 Dagobert - Quebec City, QC
3/5 Cafe Rock Le Stage - Trois-Riviers, QC
3/6 La Ruche - Granby, QC
3/7 Petit Theatre - Rouyn Noranda, QC
3/8 TBA - Sudbury, ON
3/12 Chubby Pickle - Windsor, ON
4/19 Schlachtof - Wiesbaden, Germany**
4/20 LKA - Stuttgart, Germany**
4/21 Markthalle - Hamburg, Germany**
4/22 Postbahnhof - Berlin, Germany**
4/23 Melkweg - Amsterdam, Holland**
4/24 Sputnikhalle - Munster, Germany**
4/25 Conne Island - Leipzig, Germany**
4/26 Mega Club - Katowice, Poland**
4/27 Abaton - Prague, Czech Rep.**
4/28 Durer Kert - Budapest, Hungary**
4/29 Arena - Vienna, Austria**
4/30 Rockhouse - Salzburg, Austria**
5/1 Musicdrome - Milan, Italy**
5/2 Rock Planet - Pinarella de Cervia, Italy**
5/3 Backstage Werk - Munich, Germany**
5/4 Kiff - Aarau, Switzerland*
5/6 Sala Razzmtazz - Barcelona, Spain**
5/7 Sala Caracol - Madrid, Spain**
5/8 Plateruena Kafe Antzoky - Durango, Spain**
5/9 Trabendo - Paris, France**
5/10 Waterfront - Norwich, UK**
5/11 Electric Ballroom - London, UK**
5/12 Corporation - Sheffield, UK**
5/13 Westland - Yeovil, UK**
5/14 Rios - Leeds, UK**
5/15 Academy - Birmingham, UK**
5/16 Essigfabrik - Cologne, Germany**
* w/ Despised Icon, Carnifex, Neuraxis, The Plasmarifle
** Thrash and Burn Europe w/ Bleeding Through, Darkest Hour, etc.

MAEGASHIRA Release The Stark Arctic

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 08:09:33 GMT

Available now is the full-length debut from New Jersey-based doom mongrels Maegashira, The Stark Arctic. The six-track, hour-long album was recorded and mixed by Lou Gorra (Halfway To Gone) at Redline Archiving in Little Silver, NJ, and mastered by Mick Mullin (High On Fire, Zodiak, Total Fucking Destruction) and sees distribution through Connecticut’s Spare Change Records. The band had this to say: “The day we thought would never come finally has. The Stark Arctic is for sale now, right there on the MaegashiraSpace. We busted our collective ass getting it together, are extremely proud of this album and happy to see it come out. Thanks for your support and your patience. We hope you enjoy it.”

The Stark Arctic Track Listing:

1. Ongoing Corneal Erosion (3:50)
2. Caribou Crossing (6:31)
3. Ammonia For Sweat (9:11)
4. Baggage Claim/Skin Slip (10:48)
5. Hi From Jersey (6:51)
6. Back To Muro (22:02)

As previously announced, Maegashira has been confirmed as a part of the Stoner Hands Of Doom X festival in Maryland, with the complete lineup to be announced shortly. They will also be playing their first show following the album’s release January 30 at the Mill Creek Tavern in Philadelphia, PA. Also set to appear are Sourvein, Rosetta and Gwynbleidd.

Maegashira post new track to MySpace, join Stoner Hands Of Doom lineup

Queen_Diamond — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 20:22:35 GMT

Maegashira post new track to MySpace, join Stoner Hands Of Doom lineup

As part of their countdown to their album release, New Jersey doom ‘n rollers Maegashira have posted the song “Ammonia For Sweat” to their MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/maegashira. The song comes off their full-length debut, The Stark Arctic, out on January 20, 2009. The album is being distributed through CT’s Spare Change Records and is available for pre-order at http://www.sparechangerecords.com/set.html.

In addition, the band has been confirmed as a part of the Stoner Hands Of Doom X festival in Maryland, with the complete lineup to be announced shortly. Maegashira will also be playing their first show following the album’s release January 30 at the Mill Creek Tavern in Philadelphia, PA. Also set to appear are Sourvein, Rosetta and Gwynbleidd.

Battle Kommand and Candlelight unite

Queen_Diamond — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 20:20:57 GMT

Candlelight Records today confirms the extension of their cooperation with Chicago-based Battle Kommand Records. Founded by Nachtmystium vocalist/guitarist Blake Judd in 2004, Candlelight will now look after the noted underground label’s catalog around the globe; previously the deal was in place for only England and the European continent. Nachtmystium’s highly regarded catalog will be the first to find reissue under the new deal. In stores April 21, each of the band’s early recordings, namely Reign of the Malicious, Nachtmystium, The First Attacks, Demise and the highly acclaimed Instinct: Decay, will again be available for the band’s growing stateside fanbase. Reissues from Krieg, Obscurus Advocam and Glorior Belli among others will follow shortly thereafter. Bonus material is planned on many of the reissues with specifics to be confirmed at a later date.

Judd says of the cooperation, “it is with much honor that we can announce this collaboration. Music fans worldwide will now have much easier access to older BKR releases.” In addition to the reissue series, the cooperation will see new signings that Judd notes, “will maintain the unique brand identity of Battle Kommand Records.” Judd will retain control of the label’s A&R while Candlelight’s worldwide team will handle marketing and distribution. "With Candlelight's funding behind BKR's new signees,” says Judd, “I anticipate that more of our artists will be touring here and abroad. A more major push for all of our artists marks a major step for the label, and we intend to push-forward with full force."

Since its launch in 2004, Battle Kommand Records has released nearly 30 albums. The roster’s artists span black, doom, death, experimental noise and ambient rock. The label has seen cooperation in the US previously with Los Angeles-based Southern Lord Records as well direct relationships with numerous indie and underground distributors. Candlelight Records with offices in London and Philadelphia has a worldwide catalog containing over 400 titles including recordings from Emperor, Opeth, 1349, Blut Aus Nord, Crowbar, Abigail Williams, Obituary and many more. Candlelight is distributed in the United States via Caroline Distribution, EMI Music is the label’s new distributor for Canada with England and European distribution handled by Plastic Head Music.

Interloper Records prepare to HARPOON

Queen_Diamond — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 20:18:21 GMT

Dean Costello and Toney Vast-Binder were originally introduced in 2004 by drummer, John Mendola of Hewhocorrupts. The three of them formed the band Gun Kata (later adding Eugene Marino of The Killer on bass). They released only one split CD with grind legends, Tower of Rome (on Sonic Deadline). Gun Kata ended amicably in 2006 after a hand full of live shows. At that point, Dean started Crazy Stallion (with members of Weekend Nachos); recording one EP and touring the east coast, while Toney focused on his role in the production and support of the last 7000 Dying Rats release Season in Hell (on Hewhocorrupts Inc.)

In January of 2007, Dean approached Toney about starting a new drum machine project. The two began writing and rehearsing almost immediately. They settled on the name Harpoon right away. Originally Toney played bass, as well as doing vocals, while Dean played guitar and programmed the drums. They quickly booked time with Sanford Parker (Minsk, Nachtmystium, Lair of the Minotaur) at Volume Studios after Toney had worked with him the previous year on 7000 Dying Rat’s Season in Hell. They completed a 9-song demo with Parker in May of that year which was then mastered by Scott Hull (Pig Destroyer, Agoraphobic Nosebleed) at Visceral Sound. They took their live performance on a short east coast tour that summer after playing only two shows locally in Chicago.

Harpoon continued to play many Chicago shows as well as a touring the East coast and the south with The Muzzler (also from Chicago). They went back into the studio in August of 2008, this time with Andy Nelson (of Weekend Nachos) to record the songs for the new CD/LP, Double Gnarly/Triple Suicide. In the interest of uniformity, they rerecorded the songs from the demo as well as three new songs. Scott Hull, once again, performed the mastering duties. A video for the opening track, Company Man, was filmed in August by director, Darryl Miller and is schedule to be released at the same time as Double Gnarly/Triple Suicide.

Since completing Double Gnarly/Triple Suicide, Harpoon added DJ Barraca (formerly of Lair of the Minotaur) on bass. DJ and Toney had worked together in the past in 7000 Dying Rats. The trio plans on playing a number of short stints, as well as a longer summer tour to support the new release. So suck it.

Double Gnarly/Triple Suicide invades stores February 10th, 2009. There will be a hometown listening party at Kuma's Korner February 7th. Tour dates coming soon.. for now catch 'em locally this winter:

1/17/2009 Metal Shaker - Chicago, IL w/Infinite Missiles, Dios Mio, Black Teeth, Lord Green
2/07/2009 Kuma's Korner - Chicago, IL - Record Releae Party
2/13/2009 Simple Days - Bloomington, IL w/Plague Bringer, Hewhocorrupts, Weekend Nachos
2/14/2009 Mixtapes - East Moline, IL w/Plague Bringer, Hewhocorrupts, Weekend Nachos
2/15/2009 The Beat Kitchen - Chicago, IL - Record Release Show w/Plague Bringer, Weekend Nachos, The Muzzler, Tension Generation

New Candlelight USA releases

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 11:11:59 GMT

Ross The Boss - New Metal Leader
Twenty years after the release of Manowar’s classic Kings Of Metal album, Ross continues his legacy with an album that displays his charismatic writing style. Fist-pounding, foot-stomping metal a-la "Battle Hymns" and "Hail To England," New Metal Leaders is a record that will satisfy old and new fans alike. Album was produced by Tarek Maghary (Majesty) and mixed and mastered by Achim Köhler (Primal Fear).

Performing since the early 70’s Ross has seen music through its changing cycles. Originally as a member of The Dictators, he is best known for his work as co-founder of Manowar. As the band’s main songwriter and guitarist, his work can be found on the band’s first six albums. While New Metal Leaders does feature his name in the billing, Ross confirms it is a full band and one that is dedicated and determined to satisfy their immediate fan base.
http://www.rosstheboss.com

Sinner - Crash & Burn
Its been a few years since this popular German metal band have released new material. A staple on the scene going back to 1983, with the release of their debut Fast Decision, the quartet have established a sizeable and loyal worldwide audience. Band leader Mat Sinner calls the album “pure energy with real hard rock roots.” Album engineered by Dennis Ward (Angra) & mixed by Achim Köhler (Amon Amarth).

Sinner have shared the stage with Deep Purple, Savatage, Mr. Big. The band have had European chart entries (The Nature of Evil debuting on the German charts at position 63). Already available in Europe, Crash & Burn has found much support and positive reaction. The band, currently featuring guitarists Henny Wolter and Christof Leim, drummer Klaus Sperling with vocalist/bassist Mat Sinner, have already hit the road in Europe in support of the record.
http://www.myspace.com/sinnerofficial

Dimension Zero - He Who Shall Not Bleed
Its not merely the pedigree or experience of the members that makes Dimension Zero a stand out in the metal world. With this, their fourth album, the band continues to challenge themselves musically all while delivering the quality songwriting their fans have to expect. Additional guitar work coming from Annihilator’s Jeff Waters, the album contains 11 new blistering tunes that will appeal to their core audience as well those of the band members other projects.

Formed in 1996 as a side project between In Flames Jesper Stromblad & Glenn Ljungstrom, from the get-go Dimension Zero wanted to take a more aggressive lean with their songwriting. The band would record their first three records for Sweden’s Regain Records (with licenses for the US). He Who Shall Not Bleed was recorded at In Flames Studio (formerly Studio Fredmann). While less thrasier then their previous albums it is another metal gem from this regarded and diverse band.
http://www.dimensionzero.se

Lethargy - Purification
The second release from the newly formed Powerage Rock label, Purification is a great example of solid riff-driven hard rock and impeccable musicianship. The Wales-based quartet take classic as well modern musical influences to craft eleven catchy and melodic songs that are sure to quickly find a passionate US fan base. Produced by David Prater (Dream Theater), it is an impressive start for a promising band.

A brief chat with the members of Lethargy will reveal influences as far ranging as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Manic Street Preachers, Dream Theater, Radiohead and Alice In Chains, to name but a few of the diverse sounds the band take into creating their own material. Far ahead of their years (with all members in their late teens/early twenties), when noted journalist Geoff Barton (Classic Rock Magazine) got a hold of their self-financed 2005 album he was immediately impressed; the album later went on land in the magazine’s Top 20 albums of the year.
http://www.myspace.com/lethargymusic

Other releases on the way from Candlelight USA include new Absu, Throne of Katarsis, Blut Aus Nord, IXXI and more.

LAZARUS AD releases artwork and track listing for The Onslaught!

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:28:07 GMT

Southeastern Wisconsin thrashers LAZARUS AD have just released the cover art and track listing to their Metal Blade Records debut The Onslaught, which will be released everywhere March 3rd 2009. The Onslaught was mixed by famed thrasher James Murphy of Testament and contains 10 tracks with a supreme level of creativity and musicianship. Have no doubt that LAZARUS AD is a thrash band, but are not simply a throwback to the 80s bay area sound. They breathe a breath of fresh air into modern thrash with intelligent and memorable riffs, thrash breakdowns, mid-tempo grooves, and high-flying solos.

“…the way it combines rapid-fire riffage, abrupt rhythm changes and cutting guitar harmonies within double bass drumming is worthy of praise… Their playing blazes, yet Lazarus A.D. guitarists Dan Gapen and Alex Lackner are intuitive enough to know when to slow down or insert melodic hooks.” - Guitar World from ‘The Next Metallica?’ article

Track listing for The Onslaught:
1. Last Breath
2. Thou Shall Not Fear
3. Damnation for the Weak
4. Absolute Power
5. Revolution
6. Rebirth
7. Lust
8. Forged In Blood
9. Every Word Unheard
10. Who I Really Am

LAZARUS AD is:
Dan Gapen (guitars/vocals)
Jeff Paulick (bass/lead vocals)
Alex Lackner (guitars)
Ryan Shutler (drums

http://www.myspace.com/lazarus1

Farflung to play Roadburn Festival 2009

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:24:43 GMT

Farflung has been confirmed to play Walter`s Roadburn Festival in Tilburg, Netherlands in April 2009. The show will be at The Batcave on the 23rd - with Amon Duul 2 and White Hills. According to vocalist Tommy Grenas: "It is a great honor not only to play the festival but also to perform with one of our biggest influences in space rock, Amon Duul 2, and our good friends White Hills. It will be a melting eve of psychedelic space rock, and eye shaking visuals! All the guys in Farflung hope that the folks who haunt StonerRock.com will be able to drop in and enjoy the evening with us." The band will also be playing a series of dates in Holland, Germany and more TBA, which will be announced soon.

Click the following link for more information on the Roadburn 2009 festival: http://www.roadburn.com/

Abigail Williams return to the road in February

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 08:23:50 GMT

Abigail Williams have confirmed a string of headline dates beginning January 30 as they continue to tour in support of their recently released full-length debut, In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns. Produced by James Murphy and featuring contributions from Trym Torson (Emperor/Zyklon), the album topped the CMJ charts the week ending December 5. MTV2/Headbangers Ball world premiered the sextet’s video for the song “Into the Ashes” online December 4 with the broadcast premiere on December 6.

"Response to our album from our fans has been awesome and we are very grateful for the support our fans have given us on tour. We are stoked on Trym's drumming on the album and James Murphy’s mix really brought the whole project to life. We are really looking forward to getting back on the road in support of the new record."

A year-long recording project that utilized studios in the US and abroad, In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns features ten songs showcasing the young band’s dynamic songwriting. Metal Maniacs calls the album, “an unholy alliance between the beauty of the keyboards and the beast of speed. There’s an impressive level of musicianship that crackles with a blazing metal heart.” Orange County-based Mean Street Magazine asserts, “In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns is an epic feast of shrill, feverish riffs, luxurious keyboards and caterwauling vocals. It recalls Emperor’s landmark In The Nightside Eclipse but with more sheer muscle.” The album sold over 1,200 units according to Nielsen Soundscan its first week of release and is a consistent weekly seller with over 20,000 units now shipped globally.

Abigail Williams have been a focus of attention for both fan and critics since their formation several years back. Popular news portal Blabbermouth, noted of the band’s 2007 EP, “Legend lays a firm foundation for greatness to come.” The band have had to endure numerous line up changes and public scrutiny fighting back from a near collapse in late 2007. Vocalist/founder Sorceron says of the band’s shaky beginnings, "things started out rough finding a solid lineup for the band but our current lineup is much stronger then what we started out with. This is not the same band that people witnessed on tour from May 2007. This is something much more focused and we are determined to conquer any obstacles we may face. It’s been a long, bumpy road full of unexpected trials and tribulations but we are in it for the long haul."

Currently featuring guitarists Mike Wilson and Bjornthor, keyboardist Ellyllon, bassist Plaguehammer, and drummer Samus with Sorceron, Abigail Williams have toured the US and Europe several times including their most recent tour with The Faceless completed in November. The band were hand-picked to open for Emperor at their sold-out performance in Los Angeles (House of Blues) in July of 2006. In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns is available in stores now via Candlelight Records.

Abigail Williams, with Rose Funeral, Burning the Masses, The Breathing Process in support:
1/30/2009 Mac's Bar - Lansing, MI
1/31/2009 The Attic - Dayton, OH
2/01/2009 The Jukebox - Rochester, NY
2/02/2009 The Haunt - Yonkers, NY
2/03/2009 Crocodile Rock - Allentown, PA
2/04/2009 Jaxx - W. Springfield, VA
2/05/2009 Peppermint Club - Virginia Beach, VA
2/06/2009 Brewery - Raleigh, NC
2/07/2009 Sector 7G - Augusta, GA
2/08/2009 Fuel Coffehouse - Jacksonville, FL
2/09/2009 Orpheum - Tampa, FL
2/12/2009 Java Jazz - Houston, TX
2/13/2009 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX
2/14/2009 Rose Park Activity Bldg - Abilene, TX
2/15/2009 Plano Centre - Plano, TX
2/16/2009 Lonestar Event Center - Lubbock, TX
2/17/2009 Chic's - El Pazo, TX
2/19/2009 Karma - Victorville, CA

Viking Skull wrap up East Coast tour, complete video

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:51:55 GMT

British rockers and sometime troublemakers Viking Skull returned to England earlier this week after a successful post-Christmas showcase tour alongside Clutch. The sold out performances put the band on US soil for their first major shows with seasonably happy audiences taking to the band’s gritty, hard rocking, drinking tunes. Their 30-minute set included material from their recently released third album Doom Gloom Heartache & Whiskey.

"What a fantastic opportunity it was to play with Clutch on their home turf," says bassist Waldie. "The crowds were very cool and welcoming. We made a lot of new friends. Our new material went down great and there were even people singing along to the old stuff which was nice! There were a lot of parties but don’t worry - no hairy babies!"

Viking Skull concluded the US trek with two headline shows just after New Year’s celebrations. The Note in West Chester, Pennsylvania served as the final stop and the location for the band’s video shoot for album track "Hair of the Dog." The footage is currently being edited by Jackass creator/mastermind Bam Margera and is expected to be completed early February.

Released November 25, Doom Gloom Heartache & Whiskey is the band’s first album with proper US distribution and promotion. The album is set to impact college and commercial specialty radio on January 19. Over 300 stations across the country are planned to receive the disc that Kerrang! recently called "a genuinely fantastic rock 'n roll album." Getting an early jump on the impact, weekly radio tip sheet FMQB interviewed the band in late December. During the interview drummer Jess Margera said, "this record is the epitome of every good rock band smashed into one."

As the lone American in the band, Margera remembers his initial introduction to the ‘Skull. "I think five years ago was the first time I heard Viking Skull get played on the jukebox at the Crobar in London. The whole place went insane. It was kind of like when I was a kid hearing Back in Black for the first time. I bought everyone there a shot of Makers mark and a beer."

With limited support and resources, Viking Skull have single-handedly created their own early opportunities. Independently recording their first release for a whopping $500, their 2003 mini-album titled Chapter One remains the only album to score 11 out of 10 in England’s Metal Hammer. The band’s full length debut, Born in Hell, was released in 2005. While finding limited stateside exposure in Europe the band continued to build on a growing fanbase and profile. Tours with Clutch and cKy would see them through the year setting up the recording of their second album. Chapter Two would be released in early 2007 and featured guest appearances from members of Fireball Ministry. It would also feature the first contributions from Margera (also a member of cKy and stoner super-group The Company Band).

Already looking forward to their return to the states in the near future, vocalist Roddy Stone shares, "Ice cold beer actually exists when you tour the US unlike the lukewarm beer you get off promoters in the UK. So bring it on..."

Viking Skull is vocalist/founder Roddy Stone, bassist Waldie, guitarist Dom and drummer Jess Margera. Doom Gloom Heartache & Whiskey is available in stores now via Powerage/Candlelight Records.

Wolves In The Throne Room announce new EP, new album, tour dates

Queen_Diamond — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:21:58 GMT

In February Southern Lord will proudly release the vinyl only version of the new Wolves In The Throne Room EP entitled Malevolent Grain, featuring two brand new tracks from the Pacific Northwest organic black metallers. Conspiracy Records will offer a limited edition picture disc of the 12" for Europe, while Southern Lord will release a black 180-gram version worldwide. Additionally the band will press a limited CD version for tour purposes only. The EP features the band's newly designed logo crafted by renowned artist Christophe Szpajdel, designer of black metal band logos for Kult Ov Azazel, Emperor, Moonspell and other international acts.

The third WITTR full-length Black Cascade will follow, to be released on March 31st on Southern Lord Records. More info will follow soon on this wholly organic black-drone masterwork. Both the EP and the full-length were recorded to 2-inch tape by Randall Dunn and Mell Dettmer in Seattle this Winter. The new recordings are the first to feature their new guitar player Will Lindsay (Middian) who had previously served as the band's touring bass player, in addition to longtime members, brothers Nathan and Aaron Weaver.

The band will tour Europe beginning in late January, along with three select US dates. More extensive touring through 2009 is also imminent. In addition to the new EP, other new merch for this tour includes a Live At Roadburn 2008 12" record, which also includes a DVD and is being released by Burning World Records.

1/16/2009 The Underground Events Center (benefit for victims of the Green Scare) - Seattle, WA
1/17/2009 The Big Room - Olympia, WA w/Mt. Eerie
1/22/2009 Vera Groningen (Net)
1/23/2009 Jaz Rostock (Ger)
1/24/2009 Loppen Copenhagen (Den)
1/25/2009 Cassiopeia Berlin (Ger)
1/27/2009 Dna Brussels (Bel)
1/28/2009 Underworld London (Uk)
1/29/2009 The Croft Bristol (Uk)
1/30/2009 Busk Birmingham (Uk)
2/02/2009 Engine Rooms Brighton (Uk)
2/03/2009 Boule Noir Paris (Fra)
2/04/2009 Heretic Club Bordeaux (Fra)
2/05/2009 El Balcon De La Lola Bilbao (Spa)
2/06/2009 Sala Whippoorwill Oviedo (Spa)
2/07/2009 Porto-rio Porto (Por)
2/08/2009 Ritmo Y Compas Madrid (Spa)
2/11/2009 Magnolia Milan (Ita)
2/12/2009 Circolo Degli Artisti Rome (Ita)
2/13/2009 Cage Club Livorno (Ita)
2/15/2009 Kunstverein Nurnberg (Ger)
2/16/2009 Klub 007 Prague (Cze)
2/17/2009 Arena Vienna (Aus)
2/18/2009 Beatpol Dresden (Ger)
2/19/2009 Scheldapen Antwerp (Bel)
2/20/2009 W2 Den Bosch (Net)
2/21/2009 Festung Bitterfeld (Ger)
2/28/2009 Masquerade @ Atlanta Metal Festival - Atlanta, GA

US thrash metallers Havok sign to Candlelight

Queen_Diamond — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:20:32 GMT

Candlelight Records confirms the signing of Denver-based thrashers Havok. The band are currently completing their debut album titled Burn which is expected for release early spring. The album, produced by vocalist/guitarist David Sanchez at Dirty D Studios and mixed by Bart McCrorey at Motaland Studios, contains twelve songs from the youthful band featuring guitarist Shawn Chavez, drummer Ryan Bloom and bassist Jesse de Los Santos with Sanchez.

Havok have been impressing their growing fanbase since their formation in 2004. To date the band have performed alongside Exodus, Destruction, Into Eternity, Cephalic Carnage, and have toured with fellow new thrashers Bonded By Blood. Via two independent recordings, PWN ‘Em All and Murder By Metal (both quickly selling out their pressings) the band have reached audiences far outside their regional borders. Sanchez says of the band’s signing, "this is the break we’ve been working toward and now that it’s finally here we’re more than ready to make the most of it. We are both psyched and humbled to be a part of the Candlelight roster." Chavez adds, "this is the beginning of great things to come. We know that the work is really just beginning and that the pressure is on but pressure as you know makes diamonds."

With final details of Burn being finalized now the band look to hit the road shortly after album release date. Track listing as of press time includes: Wreckquiem, The Root of Evil, Path to Nowhere, Morbid Symmetry, Identity Theft, The Disease, Scabs of Trust, Ivory Tower, To Hell, Category of the Dead, Melting the Mountain, Afterburner.

New Biclops and Postman Syndrome albums to be recorded

Queen_Diamond — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 04:42:03 GMT

Biclops (ex and current Postman Syndrome / East Of The Wall / Day Without Dawn) will be entering the studio on March 15th to record their debut full-length for a to-be-determined label. Recording and mixing will be handled at The Machine Shop (Clutch, King Crimson, Lamb Of God) by producer Will Putney.

In addition, two releases from the bands' previous incarnation, The Postman Syndrome, are planned for the coming year as well. The first will be the long awaited release of The Postman Syndrome's demos for an unreleased record that was scrapped when the band's former label, Now Or Never Records, folded in 2004. These demos will finally come to light this summer.

Finally, original Postman Syndrome members Mike Somers (East Of The Wall), Matt Lupo (East Of The Wall), Chris Alfano (Biclops), and Brett Bamberger (Biclops / East Of The Wall) will join forces with Kevin Conway (Biclops / East Of The Wall) to compose new Postman Syndrome material. The writing sessions will begin this May following completion of the Biclops record, and the current plan is to release two or three new songs on a split or an EP in late 2009 or early 2010.

Biclops will be on tour for various short runs in January - May 2009, with several shows booked now:

1/10/2009 House Show - Pennington, NJ w/East Of The Wall, All Parallels, A Fucking Elephant, So Is The Tongue
1/17/2009 The Stomping Grounds - Lancaster, PA w/ Tombs, Monolith, Pandas, Qwirk
1/22/2009 Cousin Larry’s - Danbury, CT w/ Hive Smasher

Battlefields info and tour updates

Queen_Diamond — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:47:17 GMT

Battlefields have posted the new song "Quake and Flood" from their upcoming Translation Loss Records debut Thresholds Of Imbalance, due late March 2009: http://www.myspace.com/battlefieldsdoom.

Battlefields' Translation Loss debut Thresholds Of Imbalance was recorded at The Devil's Workshop in Minnesota with drummer and engineering Rob Schmidt manning the helm and was mastered by Nick Zampiello at New Alliance Audio. The band will be performing at this weekends KUMA fest in Chicago, IL and will also be embarking on a full US tour with labelmates Irepress in early 2009!

The band are currently on tour, with tons of other upcoming dates and plenty more dates TBA thorough the coming year.

12/18/2008 Minneapolis, MN - The Uptown Bar w/Host, Empires
12/19/2008 The Haunted Basement - Des Moines, IA w/Samothrace, Druids, Seaberg
12/20/2008 Double Door - Chicago, IL @ Kuma's Doom Fest w/Kongh, Minsk, Samothrace, Indian
12/22/2008 The Afterdark - Steven’s Point, WI
12/31/2008 The Aquarium - Fargo, ND
1/10/2009 Fargo Theatre - Fargo, ND w/Dillinger 4,Eyedeas & Abilities, The Awesome Snakes

tour with Irepress
3/06/2009 The Factory - Rochester, MI
3/07/2009 Mac’s Bar - Lansing, MI w/The Plague Years
3/10/2009 Borg Ward - Milwaukee, WI
3/11/2009 *TBA - Minneapolis, MN w/Dark Castle, Vernal Pool
3/12/2009 The Aquarium - Fargo, ND w/Dark Castle, Vernal Pool
3/13/2009 Nutty’s North - Sioux Falls, SD @ Init Fest w/The Blinding Light, Cougar Den
3/16/2009 The Avenue - Wichita, KD
3/18/2009 Reno’s Chop Show - Dallas, TX w/Zoroaster
3/23/2009 Zepplin’s - El Paso, TX
3/24/2009 The Living Room - Tuscan, AZ w/Hellas Mounds
3/25/2009 Che Cafe - San Diego, CA w/Name
3/27/2009 The Knitting Factory - Los Angeles, CA w/Name
3/30/2009 Samurai Duck - Eugene, OR
3/31/2009 Kelly’s Olympian - Portland, OR w/Nanda Devi, Paranaut
4/01/2009 The Funhouse - Seattle, WA
4/03/2009 Burt’s Tiki Lounge - Salt Lake City, UT
4/14/2009 Three Kings - Denver, CO w/Mustangs & Madras, Adai
4/05/2009 Jackpot Saloon - Lawrence, KS w/The Cast Pattern
4/06/2009 The Fubar - Saint Louis, MO
4/09/2009 Washington St Art Center - Vermillion, SD

Sepultura.... A-Lex is upon us

Queen_Diamond — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 17:14:11 GMT

It is upon us.... the latest release from the almighty Sepultura! Following up 2006's incredible Dante XXI, the Brazilian battalion have created another impressive concept release with A-Lex; the album based completely on the classic novel A Clockwork Orange.

Sepultura from Brazil are a prime example of an intelligent thrash metal act whose powerful compositions continue to tackle exciting and ingenious subjects. 1996 saw the band devote their landmark release, Roots, to the fate of the Xavante Indians on the border of Brazil and Bolivia; in spring 2006 the musicians put to music an opus by the Italian poet and philosopher, Dante Alighieri, on their album, Dante XXI. Now this concept has reached a new climax: on their latest release, A-Lex, guitarist Andreas Kisser and his three colleagues, Derrick Green (vocals), Paulo Jr. (bass) and new addition Jean Dollabella (drums), have dedicated themselves to Anthony Burgess's book A Clockwork Orange, creating an awesome thrash metal opus around this timeless and exciting subject. A-Lex will be available on Steamhammer/SPV January 27, 2009 and certainly has what it takes to shake up the foundations of the metal scene: few other albums from this genre sound as ambitious or impressive.

"A lot of people know Stanley Kubrick's film, A Clockwork Orange, which is a movie classic, but few realize that the last chapter of the book is missing from the film. And that’s what in my opinion is extremely important for the message that Anthony Burgess wanted to convey: it’s your own free will, your own free choice, in which environment you choose to move," band mastermind Andreas Kisser explains his interpretation of this historic publication. "Following his stay in hospital, Alex, the book’s main character, returns to society, meets old friends, finds a wife and starts a family. He makes this choice of his own will, irrespective of what the government had in mind for him", an interesting aspect which Sepultura underlines with their typical hard-as-nails thrash metal compositions on A-Lex (an album title with a double meaning: in Russian, "A-Lex" means something like "lawless"). The recording is divided into four chapters, the first three of which cover the familiar plot from the movie, while chapter four reflects the final part of the story from the book. "Every chapter, from 'Alex I' to 'Alex IV', starts with a brief introduction which allows the listener to follow the story at all times," Kisser explains.

Along with Sepultura’s familiar raw metal tunes, which are omnipresent on the one-hour recording, they have authentically translated Alex’s affinity with Ludwig van Beethoven: supported by classical symphonic musicians from Sao Paulo, the track ‘Ludwig Van’ picks up Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and transposes it into a heavy metal context. This number is a definite must, and it would be impossible to optimize this combination of classical music and savage thrash metal.

The material was produced by Sepultura and Stanley Soares at the Trama Studios in Sao Paulo and mastered by George Marino at New York’s Sterling Sound studios. A-Lex is the first Sepultura album to feature new drummer Jean Dolabella, who joined the fold during the Dante XXI tour. We've known Jean for more than three years; he’s from our hometown of Belo Horizonte and joined us when Roy Mayorga left to team up with Stone Sour," Kisser introduces his new drummer. "He’s ten years younger than the other band members and has brought a new approach into the band. Jean has an amazing amount of energy and motivation. We're very happy to have him with us, and we're proud of the positive impact he’s had on the material on A-Lex."

With Dolabella as Sepultura’s driving force and more outstanding guitar work courtesy of Andreas Kisser, A-Lex proves to be a dynamic and extremely haunting metal opus which was written in just three months and created more or less on the basis of extended studio jams. The listener feels this spontaneity and vibrancy in every single note. A-Lex will be available in two versions: a regular jewel case and a vinyl gatefold LP.

Maegashira finish work on full-length debut; post new track

Queen_Diamond — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:28:18 GMT

New Jersey doom 'n' roll bastards Maegashira have completed work on their forthcoming full-length debut, The Stark Arctic. Comprised of six songs, the hour-long album was recorded by Halfway To Gone vocalist/bassist Lou Gorra at Redline Archiving in Little Silver, NJ, and will see distribution through Connecticut's Spare Change Records (Negative Reaction, When The Deadbolt Breaks, A Day Of Pigs). A January 20 release date has been set for the album, now available for preorder.

In addition, the band has posted anti-hipster anthem "Hi From Jersey" to their MySpace page:
http://www.myspace.com/maegashira. More tracks and info to come in the next few weeks.

The Stark Arctic tracklisting:
1. Ongoing Corneal Erosion
2. Caribou Crossing
3. Ammonia For Sweat
4. Baggage Claim/Skin Slip
5. Hi From Jersey
6. Back To Muro

Emperor's Live Inferno DVD confirmed for worldwide release

Queen_Diamond — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:42:14 GMT

Candlelight Records confirms the completion of the final recordings from black metal legends Emperor. Titled Live Inferno, the special live series features various releases recorded/filmed during the band’s sold out 2005-2007 reunion performances. Several formats will be available including a 2xCD/slipcase with 16-page booklet, a limited edition box featuring 2 CDs & DVD with an enhanced 24 page booklet, a single DVD, and two limited edition double-vinyl gatefold sets. April 16 is set as the European release date for the series with April 21 set as the North American release date.

The audio aspect of the Live Inferno series features exclusive recordings from the band’s headlining performances at Norway’s Inferno Festival and Germany’s Wacken Open Air Festival. Each recording will be pressed as individual double-vinyl sets; the first pressing limited to 1000 on black vinyl with any additional pressings in varied colors selected by the band. A special gold-vinyl seven-inch limited to 2000 titled Thus Spake the Nightspirit (featuring a live rendition of the band’s famed song from the album Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk with a live recording of "Inno A Satana" from the album band's popular In the Nightside Eclipse album) will be pressed and released via the label’s official webstores beginning February 16.

The video portion, titled Live at Wacken Open Air 2006 - A Night of Emperial Wrath, has a running time of 70-minutes and includes footage professionally filmed at the Wacken Open Air Festival with additional on-stage and exclusive backstage footage filmed and compiled by the band. "It looks like these releases will be the final nail in the coffin for Emperor," says guitarist Samoth. "They are a testimony of the live reunion that took Emperor to even new heights; unique events like Wacken where Emperor headlined in front of 60 000 people. We had a great run of shows and feel lucky that we were able to come back even bigger and perform songs from our complete catalogue for a lot of dedicated fans old and new. There will be several cool formats and limited editions coming that should be a nice treat for the fans and a worthy representation of the Emperor legacy. Emperor is dead, long live the Emperor!"

Confirmed track listings include: Disc 1/Inferno: Infinity Burning (medley), Cosmic Keys to My Creations & Times, Thus Spake the Nightspirit, An Elegy of Icaros, Curse you all Men!, Wrath of the Tyrant, With Strength I Burn, Towards the Pantheon, The Majesty of the Nightsky, The Loss and Curse of Reverence, In the Wordless Chamber, Inno a Satana, I am the Black Wizards, Ye Entrancemperium, Opus a Satana. Disc 2/Wacken: Infinity Burning (medley), Cosmic Keys to My Creations & Times, Thus Spake the Nightspirit, An Elegy of Icaros, Curse you all Men!, With Strength I Burn, Towards the Pantheon, The Majesty of the Nightsky, The Loss and Curse of Reverence, In the Wordless Chamber, I am the Black Wizards, Inno a Satana.

Forming in 1991, Emperor recordings have sold hundreds of thousands worldwide. Their impact on black/extreme metal ranks them as one of the genre's most influential. Respected by musician, fan and critic alike, Emperor recorded their final album, Prometheus: The Discipline of Fire & Demise, in 2001. Guitarist Samoth and drummer Trym continued together in Zyklon; their third and latest album, Disintegrate, released in 2006. Vocalist/guitarist Ihsahn went on to work with the now defunct band project Peccatum. He produced/recorded the debut from Hardingrock (featuring musical contributions from partner Heidi S. Tveitan from Starofash and famed Norwegian fiddler Knut Buen) and released his second solo album, angL, earlier this year.

Candlelight reissued each of Emperor's four genre-defining albums, Wrath of the Tyrants, In the Nightside Eclipse, Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk and IX Equilibrium in 2004. Each feature additional bonus footage and material unavailable previously on both European and US-licensed versions. A special tablature book titled Scattered Ashes: A Decade of Emperial Wrath was released October 2006. Initially sold at the band’s sold out performance at London’s Astoria Theatre, the popular book saw worldwide release shortly thereafter. The 132-page oversized book featuring foreword and transcriptions by vocalist/guitarist Ihsahn includes tabs for thirteen Emperor classics contained on the band's 2003 compilation of the same name.

Emperor-Live Inferno, 2xCD (CDL426, 803341233270)
Emperor-Live Inferno, limited box (CDL452, 803341251113)
Emperor-Live at Wacken Open Air 2006-A Night of Emperial Wrath, DVD (CDL433, 803341249899)
Emperor-Live Inferno, 2xLP (BOBV120, 803341251304)
Emperor-Live at Wacken Open Air 2006/A Night of Emperial Wrath, 2xLP (BOBV121, 803341251311)
Emperor-Thus Spake the Nightspirit/Live Inferno, 7-inch (BOBV1247S, 803341254046)