Shardborne to release debut album in July

Irish instrumental prog metallers Shardborne – who play the PlanetMosh-backed Perverting The Innocent festival later this year – are to release their full-length debut, 'Living Bridges', via Out On A Limb Records on July 10 . The band said of the album – the follow up to their 2011 'Aeonian Sequence' EP:  "[It's] progressive metal drawing influence from many genres such as

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Ginger Wildheart - Songs & Words - Manchester 09/05/2015

Way back in 1939 Winston Churchill described the Russians as being "a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma." I can't help thinking this is also an apt description of Ginger Wildheart's Songs and Words show. It's not a gig, It's not stand-up comedy. It's not theatre. It's not literature. It's not any of thoseWay back in 1939 Winston Churchill described the Russians as being "a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma." I can't help thinking this is also an apt description of Ginger Wildheart's Songs and Words show. Ginger Wildheart – Manchester 2015 It's not a gig, It's not stand-up comedy. It's not theatre. It's not literature. It's not any of those things but somehow it manages to be all of them at the same time. Occasionally it could even be described as a talking therapy session for Mr. Wildheart with the audience as (avid) listeners. It's basically a story, the story of Ginger's life in music between the formation of the Wildhearts in late 1989 and the completion of his 555% pledge campaign in 2012. Over the years there have been so many rumours, stories and lies that Ginger decided the best way to put the record straight was to go out and tell it like it was himself. Set in a shabby-chic, quirky, historic all-seated venue the stage is almost bare. Two acoustic guitars and two microphone stands wait to be used. There is one table to stage left belonging to Jase Edwards containing beer and a laptop and [...]

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New Release from Steve 'N' Seagulls "Farm Machine" On Spinefarm Records International

With over 12 million YouTube views for their take on AC/DC's ThunderstruckSteve'N'Seagulls bring their unique style to the UK for a run of shows to celebrate the release of their debut album Farm Machine on Spinefarm Records. Barnyard Boogiemen STEVE'N'SEAGULLS, go from Viral Sensation to signed act with over 12 million Youtube views for Thunderstruck https://youtu.be/e4Ao-iNPPUc     Steve'N'Seagulls bring their unique styleWith over 12 million YouTube views for their take on AC/DC's ThunderstruckSteve'N'Seagulls bring their unique style to the UK for a run of shows to celebrate the release of their debut album Farm Machine on Spinefarm Records. Barnyard Boogiemen STEVE'N'SEAGULLS, go from Viral Sensation to signed act with over 12 million Youtube views for Thunderstruck     Steve'N'Seagulls bring their unique style to the UK for a run of shows including two performances at the Great Escape Festival in Brighton on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th to celebrate the release of their debut album Farm Machine What became a genuine international phenomenon actually started out on a farm in central Finland; in a barn, to be precise… There, in said barn, a bunch of like-minded countrymen—with the emphasis on "country"—played a customized version of AC/DC's "Thunderstruck," wearing the daftest outfits they could find. They filmed the event, posted the results on YouTube, and within a couple of weeks, the clip had accumulated over five million views. It's now topped out at 12 million. Pretty impressive, right? For Steve 'N' Seagulls, this was a bolt from the blue, but then, as history shows us, the greatest stories ever told tend to start in a [...]

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Enter Shikari announce new single and video

New single 'Torn Apart – 8th June 
'Best British Band' and 'Best Single' nominations at Kerrang! Awards Enter Shikari this week release a video for the track 'Torn Apart', directed by Mike Tyler who was also responsible for the video for the band's previous single 'Anaesthetist'. Check it out here: https://youtu.be/xndh_CwGCn8 The track is the third "proper" single from the UK Top 10 album 'The Mindsweep', andNew single 'Torn Apart – 8th June 
'Best British Band' and 'Best Single' nominations at Kerrang! Awards Enter Shikari this week release a video for the track 'Torn Apart', directed by Mike Tyler who was also responsible for the video for the band's previous single 'Anaesthetist'. Check it out here: The track is the third "proper" single from the UK Top 10 album 'The Mindsweep', and follows hot on the heels of the announcement of Enter Shikari's nominations for 'Best British Band' and 'Best Single' (for 'Anaesthetist') in this year's Kerrang! Magazine Awards. 'The Mindsweep' was released in January 2015 through Ambush Reality / Play It Again Sam Recordings and is the fourth full-length studio album from Enter Shikari since forming at school in 2003. Since the album's release, the band have undertaken a sold out UK tour (that culminated in two nights at London's Roundhouse) and comprehensive treks around both Europe and North America. They are just about to embark on a tour of Australia and their eighth trip to Russia, before beginning an exhausting UK / European festival season that will see them headline the Second Stage at Download Festival, headline NASS Festival, and play headline / high-profile slots at the likes of Glastonbury, T In The Park, Rock Am Ring / [...]

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Death Angel to release 'A Thrashumentary' DVD and live album. Playing UK shows this August

San Francisco Bay Area thrash veterans DEATH ANGEL are pleased to announce the release of 'A Thrashumentary'. The DVD release was directed, shot and edited by Tommy Jones(KATAKLYSM, SOILWORK, LAMB OF GOD, CARCASS, TESTAMENT) of Videohammer Studios . It will be released on July 17th via Nuclear Blast Records. The release will also include aSan Francisco Bay Area thrash veterans DEATH ANGEL are pleased to announce the release of 'A Thrashumentary'. The DVD release was directed, shot and edited by Tommy Jones(KATAKLYSM, SOILWORK, LAMB OF GOD, CARCASS, TESTAMENT) of Videohammer Studios . It will be released on July 17th via Nuclear Blast Records. The release will also include a full live album entitled 'The Bay Calls for Blood'. "It is with great excitement that I finally get to share this DEATH ANGEL news," comments vocalist Mark Osegueda. "'A Thrashumentary' is finally complete and ready for release this summer! The film tells the story of DEATH ANGEL from our inception to the present day. With many guest appearances by some of our peers, and contemporaries who happen to be some of the most respected players in the genre. It covers the highs, lows and highs again of the band and the thrash metal movement. A must have for any metal fan!" "The even better news is 'A Thrashumentary' will be accompanied by an official live album called 'The Bay Calls for Blood', which was recorded in our hometown of San Francisco! We are so proud of this recording and performance that we decided to release it [...]

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Forever Never release new video single and announce slots at Isle of Wight and Y Not? Festival

Essex Metallic Rockers in FOREVER NEVER have not only released a stellar new single that's currently being playlisted on Kerrang! Radio and was featured as Front Magazine's video of the day, but they've only gone and announced two killer Festival slots for 2015. Forever Never will be performing at Y Not? Festival alongside the likes ofEssex Metallic Rockers in FOREVER NEVER have not only released a stellar new single that's currently being playlisted on Kerrang! Radio and was featured as Front Magazine's video of the day, but they've only gone and announced two killer Festival slots for 2015. Forever Never will be performing at Y Not? Festival alongside the likes of Snoop Dogg, Don Broco and Young Guns, and will also be performing at the prestigious Isle of Wight Festival alongside Blur, Basement Jaxx, Hacktivist and more. Forever Never's new single 'Never Giving Up' can be heard for the next few weeks on Johnny Doom's radio show over at Kerrang! Radio, and Alex Baker will be spinning it, too. Their video was filmed by Sitcom Soldiers

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The Darkness announce uk tour

The Darkness are pleased to announce the Blast of Our Kind tour. The Blast of Our Kind tour will commence on November 30th in Norwich and culminate in a triumphant show at London's Roundhouse on December 20th. It is the first, and a golden, opportunity for enthusiasts to see The Darkness on their own stage inThe Darkness are pleased to announce the Blast of Our Kind tour. The Blast of Our Kind tour will commence on November 30th in Norwich and culminate in a triumphant show at London's Roundhouse on December 20th. It is the first, and a golden, opportunity for enthusiasts to see The Darkness on their own stage in support of the new, fourth album 'Last of Our Kind'. 'Last of Our Kind' is an album of unparalleled beauty and power. It is to be released on June 1st, at which point children and adults alike will rejoice. The first single 'Open Fire' has already been unveiled and the video, directed by Simon Emmett, is currently lording over the internet, stamping it's scaly feet and pecking at cyber grubs like a magnificent peacock. http://smarturl.it/openfirevid The album also features 'Barbarian', which was released as a 'teaser track', with a brutally beguiling animated lyric video illustrated by Nick Roche. http://smarturl.it/barbarianvid Blast of Our Kind will be The Darkness' first UK tour since 2013. Those in attendance will be awestruck by the all-new material and downright delighted by the early works as The Darkness rip through their repertoire of ruddy great songs with new drummer Rufus [...]

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Rockmantic 2016 Valentine Weekender

Now in its fourth year, Rockmantic returns with what is set to be its strongest line up to date. The first four bands have been announced & Sweden's hottest property CONFESS are confirmed to headline the Saturday night. Trailblazing through the UK earlier this year, the five piece set hearts racing & heads banging inNow in its fourth year, Rockmantic returns with what is set to be its strongest line up to date. The first four bands have been announced & Sweden's hottest property CONFESS are confirmed to headline the Saturday night. Trailblazing through the UK earlier this year, the five piece set hearts racing & heads banging in England, Scotland & Wales. Confess have most recently been confirmed to perform at the most prestigous CRUEFEST at the Whisky a go go in Hollywood, LA this July. Newcastle's RUSTED HERO join the pack. Originally winning the fan vote at last year's Rockmantic. Rusted Hero was a hugely popular & a must 'rebook' option. The band who blend a similar sound to Slash & Black Stone Cherry are a full on powerhouse live. Edinburgh based THE KING LOT have that knack of writing amazing songs you would swear you had heard before. From the spiky 'As They Burn' to the shiny pop rock of 'One Of These Days' they then go and complete the full package with the subtle ballad 'Until My Dying Day'. Described as the lovechild of  Guns N Roses & Bon Jovi – who would argue? The last of the first four [...]

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Deez Nuts - Word Is Bond

Melbourne, Australia's Deez Nuts brought forth their fourth studio album, Word Is Bond, in the spring of 2015. Word Is Bond is a 14 track disc filled with monolithic, aggressive hardcore crossover thrash metal that will sear your feet to the floor and melt your face simultaneously. The overall sonic texture on Word Is Bond isMelbourne, Australia's Deez Nuts brought forth their fourth studio album, Word Is Bond, in the spring of 2015. Word Is Bond is a 14 track disc filled with monolithic, aggressive hardcore crossover thrash metal that will sear your feet to the floor and melt your face simultaneously. The overall sonic texture on Word Is Bond is consistent, with each song being relatively similar to each other song. When those songs are filled with skull-jarring, bone-crunching riffs, homogeneity is a very good thing! The modern, crisp mix is overall vocal and guitar-forward, but well-balanced. Instrumentation is relatively simplistic, as to be expected from the genre. Musicianship is adequate and competent. Each song has a spartan amount of layers, effects, and so on to serve the song – the album is not over-produced. Song durations are "punk" short, for the most part. Ideas are well-chosen and sparingly wrapped into each song, which ends up as an aural near-equivalent to reading shorter sentences or text messages. Vocalist JJ Peters has a deeper, more convincing voice with a slightly grittier delivery. Lyrics are vitriolic, negative, and loaded with swearing: the songs effectively channel negativity and hostility. Deez Nuts's lyrical prosody is fairly rap-ish, so [...]

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SixStringNoise - Snake Side Brotherhood

SixStringNoise, from Greece, has independently released Snake Side Brotherhood, a ten song album. This offering, the band's third, shows a natural progression in musicianship, songwriting, and technical mastery. As a duo, Markos and Alex have come up with a cohesive batch of songs which run a gamut from grunge or alternative metal, to hard-hitting heavySixStringNoise, from Greece, has independently released Snake Side Brotherhood, a ten song album. This offering, the band's third, shows a natural progression in musicianship, songwriting, and technical mastery. As a duo, Markos and Alex have come up with a cohesive batch of songs which run a gamut from grunge or alternative metal, to hard-hitting heavy metal. As with the band's previous release, Likewise, Snake Side Brotherhood draws ready comparisons to American grunge (Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots) and alternative metal (Alter Bridge, Creed). This disc hits harder and is more tenacious, though, and has none of the production flaws which plagued the digital version of Likewise. Snake Side Brotherhood's overall mix is crisp, clear, and loud. Instruments are very well balanced and there's no sense of an instrument becoming lost in the mix. Production features fairly typical layering, and includes some very nice ideas. As with previous releases, the musicianship is solid, the performance being across-the-board quite enjoyable. The music is globally nicely accessible, with very sparse, if any, quirkiness. First and foremost, this is a contemporary alternative metal disc with leanings to other genres. Snake Side Brotherhood is heavy; there's no doubt about that. Grunge influence is most noticeable, [...]

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Golden Gods Announce Full Line Up

Golden Gods Announce Full Line Up Monday 15th June 2015, IndigO2, The O2, London #GoldenGods *FULL MAIN STAGE LIVE LINE-UP ANNOUNCED* Hosted by Scott Ian with live performances from… KILLING JOKE AT THE GATES BABYMETAL FEAT. DRAGONFORCE WE ARE HARLOT SUICIDAL TENDENCIES Taking place at IndigO2 in London on 15th June 2015, the Orange Amplification presents the Metal Hammer Golden Gods in association withGolden Gods Announce Full Line Up Monday 15th June 2015, IndigO2, The O2, London #GoldenGods *FULL MAIN STAGE LIVE LINE-UP ANNOUNCED* Hosted by Scott Ian with live performances from… KILLING JOKE AT THE GATES BABYMETAL FEAT. DRAGONFORCE WE ARE HARLOT SUICIDAL TENDENCIES Taking place at IndigO2 in London on 15th June 2015, the Orange Amplification presents the Metal Hammer Golden Gods in association with World Of Warships once again has the fans at its core and brings them together with the artists, shoulder to shoulder, like no other event. By simply voting for your favourite bands to win awards atwww.metalhammer.com/gods you are automatically in with a chance of winning a pair of money-can't-buy tickets for the evening. "The Metal Hammer Golden Gods are the annual thermometer for the health of the metal scene, and the world's only live metal awards show," said Alexander Milas, Editor-in-Chief of TeamRock and Metal Hammer. "Judging by the stunning breadth and diversity of this year's nominees, it's safe to say our world is as vibrant as ever, and we can't wait to celebrate it with our readers. Horns up!" Voting will be open until 12pm GMT on Monday 25th May atwww.metalhammer.com/gods Our host, Anthrax icon [...]

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State Champs announce September Dublin show

Following the release of their explosive debut EP in 2013 and 'The Acoustic Things' late last year, New York pop-punkers STATE CHAMPS have announced a headline show at the Academy 2, Dublin on September 16th. Tickets €15.35 including booking fee go on sale this Wednesday at 10am from Ticketmaster! *This is an over 14s show.'   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5bxXQ5GkhI State Champs,Following the release of their explosive debut EP in 2013 and 'The Acoustic Things' late last year, New York pop-punkers STATE CHAMPS have announced a headline show at the Academy 2, Dublin on September 16th. Tickets €15.35 including booking fee go on sale this Wednesday at 10am from Ticketmaster! *This is an over 14s show.'   State Champs, consisting of Derek Discanio, Tyler Szalkowski, Ryan Graham, Evan Ambrosio and Antonio Diaz came together with every intention of making it clear that they were a group of friends that wanted to make great music and have a good time. And with the instant chemistry the band shared with their formation, they knew their intention was possible. "You can only play alone for so long before you get the urge to collaborate and experiment with other musicians," says Tyler Szalkowski. "When you realize the limitless potential to what you can create with you and your friends musically, it's just like someone turned the lights on." Since their start back in 2010, State Champs has been at the forefront of the pop punk revival, becoming a fan and critic favourite with their first official release, Overslept. Recorded at Getaway Studios in Massachusetts with Jay [...]

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In This Moment - 'Sex Metal Barbie' video

In This Moment - 'Sex Metal Barbie' video In This Moment have unveiled a brand new video for 'Sex Metal Barbie', a track taken from their current 'Black Widow' album. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZqWLIQaKM4&feature=youtu.be The band's fiery frontwoman Maria Brink also directed the 'Sex Metal Barbie' clip, explaining to Loudwire; "Directing it was a liberating experience. When you write music that youIn This Moment – 'Sex Metal Barbie' video In This Moment have unveiled a brand new video for 'Sex Metal Barbie', a track taken from their current 'Black Widow' album. The band's fiery frontwoman Maria Brink also directed the 'Sex Metal Barbie' clip, explaining to Loudwire; "Directing it was a liberating experience. When you write music that you are very passionate about, being able to bring the visual aspect of it alive with the music is what ties everything together.  Sex Metal Barbie is all about rising above hate. I used other people's hatred to create this song and concepts. I really wanted this video to convey that other people's perceptions of us are just their own twisted and warped views. I wanted a sarcastic and delusional visual to bring this video alive." She continues; "I want to thank all the people who feel compelled to express negativity toward us for all the inspiration. I couldn't have done it without them." In This Moment completed their first UK headline tour in March, culminating in a sold out KOKO show in London.  They're currently nominated for 'Best Live Band' in the 2015 Relentless Kerrang! Awards, which is being held in the capital in June. [...]

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King Parrot Stream New Album 'Dead Set'

King Parrot Stream New Album 'Dead Set' The Aussie thrash metal/grindcore/punk mad men, KING PARROT, have teamed up with Metal Hammer UK to launch an advance stream of the band's forthcoming album, Dead Set. The album is set to be released on May 15th in Europe (Agonia Records), May 19th in North America (Housecore Records) and May 15th in Australia(Rocket/EVP).  Dead Set is available for listening inKing Parrot Stream New Album 'Dead Set' The Aussie thrash metal/grindcore/punk mad men, KING PARROT, have teamed up with Metal Hammer UK to launch an advance stream of the band's forthcoming album, Dead Set. The album is set to be released on May 15th in Europe (Agonia Records), May 19th in North America (Housecore Records) and May 15th in Australia(Rocket/EVP).  Dead Set is available for listening in full HERE The follow-up to 2013's Bite Your Head Off effort, Dead Set was produced by Phil Anselmo (Pantera, Down) in Nodferatu's Lair Studio (Down, Eyehategod, Superjoint Ritual). Anselmo also stars in the video for Like A Rat, the first track released from the new album, and firmly gives them the seal of approval, saying: "King Parrot are a fine body of fellows, and it is our absolute pleasure to be working with these assaulting-yet-charming devils. Their best years are ahead of them!" Of the new album, vocalist, Matt Young, comments: "King Parrot are proud to release our new album 'Dead Set' via Agonia records this May. It's been a long process but we happy to say that we are ready to move ahead and get this sucker out. We wanted to work together with the best people in the business to make this a great record and when Phil (Anselmo) said he wanted to be involved it [...]

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Marilyn Manson - 'The Mephistopheles of Los Angeles' Video

Marilyn Manson - 'The Mephistopheles of Los Angeles' Video Check out the new video for Marilyn Manson's 'The Mephistopheles Of Los Angeles' directed by Francesco Carrozzini (Sia, A$AP Rocky, Beyonce) featuring Michael K. Williams (The Wire, Boardwalk Empire) and filmed in Los Angeles. The track comes off his critically acclaimed album 'THE PALE EMPEROR' available now via CookingMarilyn Manson – 'The Mephistopheles of Los Angeles' Video Marilyn Manson Check out the new video for Marilyn Manson's 'The Mephistopheles Of Los Angeles' directed by Francesco Carrozzini (Sia, A$AP Rocky, Beyonce) featuring Michael K. Williams (The Wire, Boardwalk Empire) and filmed in Los Angeles. The track comes off his critically acclaimed album 'THE PALE EMPEROR' available now via Cooking Vinyl/Loma Vista. Check it below and see him live in the UK at Download Festival. "The Marilyn Manson that stands before is in 2015, proves he's still a god" –KERRANG "vicious dance-floor metal banger" – ROLLING STONE "The Bowie-influenced new album is Manson's tightest and most commercial since 1998's mega-selling Mechanical Animals." – LOADED MAGAZINE "No-one else does wanted decadence with such persuasive panache" – UNCUT "The Pale Emperor , is one hell of a return and right up there with his best!" –THE SUN NEWSPAPER The Pale Emperor available here: itunes- Deluxe –  http://po.st/PaleEmpiTunesDLX Amazon – CD deluxe – http://po.st/PaleEmpAmzDLX UK Tour Dates: 13-Jun-15              Donington Park               UK                   Download Festival Links: www.marilynmanson.com www.cookingvinyl.com

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Iron Kobra - Might & Magic (Dying Victims Productions)

[embed]https://flic.kr/p/rL9o1C[/embed] Iron Kobra from Germany appeared in 2008 and have released a series of singles and one full length before this current offering. They introduce themselves on this album with an intro about playing on 10 – it sets the scene perfectly for what can only be described as a wild and unkempt slab of metal.Iron Kobra from Germany appeared in 2008 and have released a series of singles and one full length before this current offering. They introduce themselves on this album with an intro about playing on 10 – it sets the scene perfectly for what can only be described as a wild and unkempt slab of metal. Soundwise these guys are sitting somewhere in middle England 1981-1983, its raw and rambunctious with little finesse and buckets of attitude. This is heavy metal played from the heart, they have got into the studio and laid it down exactly as I imagine these guys sound on a stage, nevermind about the polish, we are going matt black. "Fire!" demonstrates this attitude with a hammering riff, thundering drums which are really boxy sounding but have a certain charm. The guitar playing is excellent lots of interplay on harmonies and chugging riffs. The John Gallagher style screams and the aggressive vocals just add to this rowdy atmosphere. All the classic influences are in here, Maiden, Running Wild, Jaguar and a whole plethora of other NWOBHM influences."Wut im Bauch" is the only song on the album that is sung in German and is an interesting addition to [...]

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Nuclear Assault - Pounder E.P

Welcome back Nuclear Assault! Even though it will be short lived (they are calling this the 'Final Assault' tour), the New York based thrash metal legends have reformed for their 30 year anniversary and released Pounder. This blistering 4 track E.P and 2015 tour dates including a main stage slot at the UK's Bloodstock OpenNuclear Assault – Pounder Welcome back Nuclear Assault! Even though it will be short lived (they are calling this the 'Final Assault' tour), the New York based thrash metal legends have reformed for their 30 year anniversary and released Pounder. This blistering 4 track E.P and 2015 tour dates including a main stage slot at the UK's Bloodstock Open Air Festival on the 8th of August are a very big deal for me as I have not seen them since 1988 when they supported Slayer on their South Of Heaven tour. The 2 sets I saw in Manchester and Newport gave the headliners a hard act to follow considering how partisan Slayer audiences can be. Out of the quartet, 3 of the original line up are here. Bassist Dan Lilker, vocalist/guitarist John Connelly and drummer Glenn Evans are joined by Erik Burke on lead guitar who played with the band between 2002 – 2004 and from 2011 to the present day. All 4 tracks transcend the 30 year gap between their beginnings and the present day. Dan Lilker left Anthrax so as to play more aggressive music and formed Nuclear Assault with John Connelly 30 years ago and this pairing [...]

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Frosthelm - The Endless Winter

Mixing the blackest of extreme metal with thrash breaks/parts is the thing that made me review "The Endless Winter" by Frosthelm. It was too odd to not give it a good listen to and tell you what I thought. I love this band; Frosthelm have cracked the code and managed to fuse Norwegian roots withMixing the blackest of extreme metal with thrash breaks/parts is the thing that made me review "The Endless Winter" by Frosthelm. It was too odd to not give it a good listen to and tell you what I thought. I love this band; Frosthelm have cracked the code and managed to fuse Norwegian roots with the best Americanized thrash this side of 1986. The riffs are razor sharp instead of the standard drone feel of traditional BM. The "set standard" of drone, marching black metal is still here but it has been altered and taken in a new direction.  The doomy riffs are broken not by blastbeats by with facemelting thrash solos and riffs. The lads layer the guitar tone and solos of thrash to pack the entire album with an extremely sharp metallic punch that will win over doubters from the second track on. Speaking of which, "A Storm of Teeth" sounds like an Evile with its opening riff but the darker undertones are there from the kick into the song proper. There is so much going on with the composition of the tracks on this album that I can only say that it fuses both the best of [...]

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NLC/Rockin' For The Children - The Maze, Nottingham: 2nd-3rd May 2015

The Fifth NLC/Rocking For The Children Festival took place at The Maze, Nottingham over May Day Bank Holiday Weekend 2015. This now annual event is organised by David Tonge (AKA Big D) and his family and friends with a lot of time and hard work going into the organising. Last year was my first time,David Tonge – AKA Big D The Fifth NLC/Rocking For The Children Festival took place at The Maze, Nottingham over May Day Bank Holiday Weekend 2015. This now annual event is organised by David Tonge (AKA Big D) and his family and friends with a lot of time and hard work going into the organising. Last year was my first time, and having enjoyed it tremendously, I immediately booked time off work and a hotel for this year's event. It wasn't all a smooth ride with bands breaking up along the way giving Big D the headache of finding replacements but on the weekend everything went smoothly. The Maze is a small venue about twenty minutes walk from the centre of Nottingham. There's a pub at the front with a great range of ales, pictures on the wall of stars like Elvis Presley, Adam Ant and Debby Harry and beer barrels as tables. Then behind the pub is the venue and at the very rear a Beer Garden where you can go for a smoke or just to cool down after dancing  to one of the many bands.  Fundraising events like a tombola and cake sale were held in the pub for the [...]

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Beth Hart - Barbican, London - 8th May 2015

The night opened with Irishman Miles Graham.  He performs doing vocals and playing acoustic guitar, and has two musicians with him, one on the Cajon (a box shaped drum that the drummer sits on as he plays), and one on bass.  His set is very good - a classic singer-songwriter style, and he talks toThe night opened with Irishman Miles Graham.  He performs doing vocals and playing acoustic guitar, and has two musicians with him, one on the Cajon (a box shaped drum that the drummer sits on as he plays), and one on bass.  His set is very good – a classic singer-songwriter style, and he talks to the audience a lot between songs, telling them about himself.  For some of the songs the bassist puts the bass down and Miles hands him the guitar to play, leaving Miles to concentrate on vocals.  It's a great set that ends with a cover of the Hall & Oates song "Maneater". Photo: John Bull – Rockrpix.com Beth Hart took to the stage to huge applause and immediately ran to the piano.  She greeted the audience and said that she wanted to start things off quietly, so she sat down and performed the first song solo.  What can I say other than WOW?  Her voice is simply amazing, and she sings with a passionate bluesy voice as she plays – it's absolutely spellbinding stuff and this is just the first song. After that the band joined her and kicked things up a notch.  As the band [...]

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Bloodstock Metal 2 The Masses Northern Ireland Final – Belfast, Voodoo 08/05/2015

As, a few hundred yards away, Belfast joins the rest of the country in marking the 70th anniversary of VE Day, five of Northern Ireland's finest groups of metallians have come together in a darkened city centre venue to see which of them will secure just as momentous – to them at least – aAs, a few hundred yards away, Belfast joins the rest of the country in marking the 70th anniversary of VE Day, five of Northern Ireland's finest groups of metallians have come together in a darkened city centre venue to see which of them will secure just as momentous – to them at least – a victory as they gather to do battle in the final of the first ever Bloodstock Metal 2 The Masses competition to be held in this corner of the planet we call Mosh and earn themselves a coveted slot on the festival's prestigious Hobgoblin New Blood Stage. It's also a battle which, in the tradition of many conflicts of yore, also pitches brother against brother – both literally and metaphorically, as not only are Sinocence drummer Davy Cassa and Cursed Sun vocalist Jones siblings, but members of the Sins and Overoth (in the shape of guitarists Anto McCaughley and Andrew Pennington respectively) are usually found standing shoulder-to-shoulder in the Nights Watch (for those of you who don't know, the  TV epic 'Game Of Thrones' is filmed here in Northern Ireland). An appropriately decent crowd has gathered both stagefront and at the bar by the time the [...]

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Impericon Festival Highlight Show with Mike James Rock Show

On this weeks show Mike & Dann have a bunch of interviews they did last weekend at Impericon Festival in Manchester, They speak with Carnifex, Suicide Silence, Deez Nuts & Ingested and play out tons of sucker punch new tracks. If you like the show then follow them off air as they get up to someOn this weeks show Mike & Dann have a bunch of interviews they did last weekend at Impericon Festival in Manchester, They speak with Carnifex, Suicide Silence, Deez Nuts & Ingested and play out tons of sucker punch new tracks. If you like the show then follow them off air as they get up to some crazy stuff www.mikejamesrockshow.com www.twitter.com/tweetMJRS www.instagram.com/mikejamesrockshow www.facebook.com/themikejamesrockshow www.youtube.com/mikejamesrockshow

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Satyricon - Live At The Opera (DVD and 2CD release)

The solemn and eloquent darkness with the few spots of light. The drums rises up from the under floor in the side of the massive stage. Perfect lighting setting hits the stage and then Frost starts hitting the drums and Satyr comes up from the floor too and so begins the march of Satyricon inThe solemn and eloquent darkness with the few spots of light. The drums rises up from the under floor in the side of the massive stage. Perfect lighting setting hits the stage and then Frost starts hitting the drums and Satyr comes up from the floor too and so begins the march of Satyricon in the Norwegian National Opera. For someone that might sound like absolute dream and for Satyr it is how the grandiose dream came true. Live At The Opera Satyricon is one of the iconic Norwegian black metal bands – there is no big introduction needed. They released 8 full-length albums and countless EP, singles, splits.. and now there is live album and DVD "Live At The Opera" to add to all this solid discography. Only the idea of Satyricon cooperating with Norwegian National Opera chorus gives the shivers and all this hour and a half spent watching the DVD did not seem too long. Although the camera work is not as brilliant as it could be, Satyr's wish was not to disturb audience with camera cranes in the front was fair enough and the view is still enjoyable. The splendid lights, huge stage seats all over [...]

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Nightwish release video for ‘Endless Forms Most Beautiful’

Nightwish have released a video for the title track to their new album, 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKgHMG1tKKw The song is released as a maxi-single on Sunday (May 10), with the following tracklisting: Endless Forms Most Beautiful (album version) Sagan (previously unreleased instrumental version) Endless Forms Most Beautiful (alternative version) Endless Forms Most Beautiful (radio edit - previously unreleased) 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful', Nightwish's eighthNightwish have released a video for the title track to their new album, 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful'. The song is released as a maxi-single on Sunday (May 10), with the following tracklisting: Endless Forms Most Beautiful (album version) Sagan (previously unreleased instrumental version) Endless Forms Most Beautiful (alternative version) Endless Forms Most Beautiful (radio edit – previously unreleased) 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful', Nightwish's eighth studio album, was released in the UK on March 30 and entered the UK national charts at  number 12, making it the band's highest chart position to date and record company Nuclear Blast's highest charting album in the UK. The album also debuted at number three in the indie chart, number one in the rock chart and number 12 in the vinyl chart. Nightwish will be bringing their 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful' tour to the SSE Arena, Wembley, on December 19.  Support will come from labelmates Amorphis.

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ENERGETIC UK CREW 'THE ENDEAVOUR' RELEASE EXPLOSIVE DEBUT EP!

Exciting Brit alt-rockers 'The Endeavour' are poised to make their mark and are loaded with their blistering debut EP 'Voyage', out Monday 27th July, which is rammed with four slabs of highly engaging up-tempo rock that are sure to see the rising quintet ascend from the underground to the national stage.   Igniting favourable comparisons to 'Funereal ForExciting Brit alt-rockers 'The Endeavour' are poised to make their mark and are loaded with their blistering debut EP 'Voyage', out Monday 27th July, which is rammed with four slabs of highly engaging up-tempo rock that are sure to see the rising quintet ascend from the underground to the national stage.   Igniting favourable comparisons to 'Funereal For A Friend', 'Young Guns' and 'Taking Back Sunday', The Endeavour tie together a crafty tunesmith attack with an earnest and emotive delivery; the end result is truly engrossing.   Formed in the summer of 2013 and hailing from Peterborough, The Endeavour are made up from brothers Shawn (Vocals), Brandon (Guitar), Shane (Guitar), and Garren Radley (Bass), with close friend, Matthew Meadows (Drums) completing the line-up. The five-some stormed the live circuit and soon amassed a series of profile support slots with everyone from Fort Hope and Anavue to Funeral For A Friend.   The stage is now set for The Endeavour to burst out to the national scene, and the band are fully armed with their new EP 'Voyage'. From the opening power chords of 'Take It All', you can tell that you're gonna be in for some ride, as the EP never [...]

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Year Of The Goat to release second album in July

Swedish retro occultists Year Of The Goat are to release their second album, 'The Unspeakable', via Napalm Records on July 31. It follows last year's acclaimed EP, 'The Key And The Gate', the title track of which will feature, in an alternative version, as a bonus track. The full track listing is as follows: All He Has Read / Pillars

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Delain release new video

Delain have released a lyric video for  the track 'Sing To Me', which features a guest appearance from Nightwish bassist and vocalist Marco Hietala. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxzRUAXyDKw Delain - who are currently touring North America with Nightwish - hit the UK in October for a series of four dates: Thursday October 22 – Bristol, The Marble Factory Friday October 23 – Birmingham,Delain have released a lyric video for  the track 'Sing To Me', which features a guest appearance from Nightwish bassist and vocalist Marco Hietala. Delain – who are currently touring North America with Nightwish – hit the UK in October for a series of four dates: Thursday October 22 – Bristol, The Marble Factory Friday October 23 – Birmingham, Institute Library Saturday October 24 – Manchester, Academy 2 Monday October 25 – London, O2 Academy Islington Special guests are The Gentle Storm.

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The Gibson Custom Ron Wood L5S

The Gibson Custom Ron Wood L5S Not all vintage guitars were first built in the 1950's. In the periods between "The Golden Era" and the rebirth of Gibson Solid Body guitars as today's new icons in their own right, a few gems found their way into the mix. Ask Ron Wood which of those flew mostThe Gibson Custom Ron Wood L5S The Gibson Custom Ron Wood L5S Not all vintage guitars were first built in the 1950's. In the periods between "The Golden Era" and the rebirth of Gibson Solid Body guitars as today's new icons in their own right, a few gems found their way into the mix. Ask Ron Wood which of those flew most unnoticeably under the radar and he'll tell you the L5S is the most beloved to him personally. And who can argue with the very definition of 'rock star?' That's why, today, Gibson Custom is pleased to offer a solid body inspired by a time of improbability, from an era that most guitar players might not recognize as having made some significant contributions to music. Applying the standards of craft, material and quality now the norm at Gibson Custom means the new Ron Wood L5S is not only a great retro Gibson design, but one of incredible tone and feel. Ron Wood Today's L5S is made from a two-piece, hard maple top affixed to a chambered body comprised of a three piece maple center layer and 2 piece maple back . As with earlier versions from the '70's, the [...]

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Ten ask 'Tell Me What To Do' on new video

Ten have released a lyric video for the song 'Tell Me What To Do', the first single to be taken from their forthcoming new album, 'Isla De Muerta, which is released on May 20 via Rocktopia Records. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njxgN1w-JbY

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Paradise Lost release video for 'Beneath Broken Earth'

Yorkshire gothic metal veterans Paradise Lost have released a video for the track 'Beneath Broken Earth', taken from their forthcoming 14th studio album, 'The Plague Within', which is released via Century Media on June 1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55XlIPzY5q0 Paradise Lost guitarist Greg Mackintosh commented: "I fucking hate metal band performance videos, so when I got told that we needed to

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Primordial 'Wield Lightning To Split The Sun' on new video

Irish metallians Primordial have released a video for the song 'Wield Lightning To Split The Sun', taken from their current album, 'Where Greater Men Have Fallen'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brptIF2sq1c The band said of the video: "'We Wield Lightning Before The Sun' has become an important song for us, the dramatic album closer has become something of a natural call to arms that people have

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The Dead Daisies declare a June 'Revolución'

The Dead Daisies – the superstar collective featuring past and current members of the likes of Guns N Roses, Black Sabbath, Thin Lizzy and Mötley Crüe – are to release their second album, 'Revolución', via INgrooves on June 1. The band have also confirmed that they will be returning to Europe this summer, as special guests on Kiss' 40thThe Dead Daisies – the superstar collective featuring past and current members of the likes of Guns N Roses, Black Sabbath, Thin Lizzy and Mötley Crüe – are to release their second album, 'Revolución', via INgrooves on June 1. The band have also confirmed that they will be returning to Europe this summer, as special guests on Kiss' 40th anniversary tour.  For both the album and the tour, the Daisies have been joined by former Mötley Crüe  /Ratt singer John Corabi, while the tour will also feature current Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne drummer Tommy Clufetos. The new album features Corabi, bassist Marco Mendoza (ex-Thin Lizzy/Whitesnake), keyboard player Dizzy Reed (Guns N' Roses), guitarist David Lowy (MINK, Red Phoenix), lead guitarist Richard Fortus (Guns N' Roses/The Psychedelic Furs) and drummer Jackie Barnes (Tin Lids/Jimmy Barnes). Mendoza said:  "Well, another chapter with 'The Dead Daisies' coming up!!!  After finishing what is sounding great in the studio by mid-April, and releasing it in early June, we are all excited by the prospect of sharing the same stage again with the mighty KISS, this time in Europe. We also can't wait to share our show and new music with our European fans. Europe – get ready for some [...]

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Erja Lyytinen - Live in London

I must admit to not knowing anything about Erja Lyytinen, until her latest cd drop on my doormat, it is called Live In London, so had me thinking that I must be missing out on something special, and I was right. On October 7th 2014, Erja Lyytinen rolled into London's iconic venue the 100 Club forI must admit to not knowing anything about Erja Lyytinen, until her latest cd drop on my doormat, it is called Live In London, so had me thinking that I must be missing out on something special, and I was right. On October 7th 2014, Erja Lyytinen rolled into London's iconic venue the 100 Club for an evening of live music. At her side, Erja was accompanied by a crack band featuring long-time musical partner Davide Floreno, bassist Roger Inniss and drummer Miri Miettinen. Live In London mixes  brilliantly chosen covers with an impressive amount of original material. Opening up with an old Fred McDowell track 'It's A Blessing' it's like meeting a long lost friend, every feels right, from the opening a cappella through to the guitar outro, this song oozes class. Throughout the gig Erja sings with a beautiful soulful voice, and then she picks up her guitar, and then it's wow, she can play, her solo's are fluid and convey a range of emotions that only a true blues musician can do. And she can play slide guitar. And play it exceptionally well. The slide work on 'Let It Shine' is outstanding, couple that with her warm [...]

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BLOODSTOCK 'Metal 2 The Masses' Finals Begin!

BLOODSTOCK's 2015 'Metal 2 The Masses' tour is ready to kick off!  The festival has a long standing reputation for supporting grass roots metal and their annual M2TM programme is at the forefront of that.  Over the past few months, local venues all over the UK, Ireland, and Scandinavia have been holding a series ofBLOODSTOCK's 2015 'Metal 2 The Masses' tour is ready to kick off!  The festival has a long standing reputation for supporting grass roots metal and their annual M2TM programme is at the forefront of that.  Over the past few months, local venues all over the UK, Ireland, and Scandinavia have been holding a series of heats.  Hundreds of unsigned or self-released bands have taken part, each one hoping to land a slot in their local final, where ultimately the BLOODSTOCK panel choose the best from each event to win a slot on the Hobgoblin-sponsored New Blood stage at Catton Park in August!  Those finals are about to begin! 2015 has been M2TM's biggest programme to date, with 22 venues participating.  The brand new BLOODSTOCK van will be ferrying our heavy metal judges round the country, there'll be festival weekend tickets to win at each final, plus plenty of other goodies, so come down to one of the finals listed below and show your support! It's not just UK and Irish acts that BLOODSTOCK gives opportunities to, as bands from across the world can also enter for a slot on the Hobgoblin New Blood stage by uploading a video to http://www.wychwood.co.uk/#/mischeif//competitions/bloodstock.  [...]

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Estrella to release new single and album 'We Will Go On' in June 2015

Estrella single 'We Will Go On' is a rocking statement of intent  New single, from the upcoming album of the same name, to be released on June 8th Fresh from being named by Classic Rock as one of their 'Tracks of the Week' for their previous single, Scottish rock four-piece Estrella are back to make sure theEstrella single 'We Will Go On' is a rocking statement of intent  New single, from the upcoming album of the same name, to be released on June 8th Fresh from being named by Classic Rock as one of their 'Tracks of the Week' for their previous single, Scottish rock four-piece Estrella are back to make sure the new year is as successful as their last.  June 8th sees the release of the title track from their upcoming 2nd album, 'We Will Go On', which will be the second single from the album due on June 22nd. Estrella add a refreshing new feel to the rock genre yet they still remind us of the acts we all love, such as Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Van Halen, AC/DC and Bon Jovi, and it's little wonder why this searing, unapologetic slice of top quality rock was selected as the next release. Recently announced to play Download Festival 2015, the bands lead guitarist Luke Gunn commented:   "To say we are delighted is an understatement.  We have to thank both Takeover at Download Festival and our loyal #EstrellaWarriors who voted for us on the Download online poll for this amazing opportunity!" "They are an energetic, melodic band [...]

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Magnum-Escape from the Shadow Garden Live 2014

This is Magnums 9th live album and is a fitting reminder of just how good last year's studio release 'Escape from the Shadow Garden' is. If you missed the supporting tour then this is as faithful a reproduction as you are going to get, my venue on that tour was 53Degrees in Preston, but theThis is Magnums 9th live album and is a fitting reminder of just how good last year's studio release 'Escape from the Shadow Garden' is. If you missed the supporting tour then this is as faithful a reproduction as you are going to get, my venue on that tour was 53Degrees in Preston, but the less said about that venue the better. The first 6 tracks are taken from Magnum's last three Studio albums, opening with 'Live till you die' a modern classic Magnum song in the making. The opening riff to The Visitation's 'Black Skies' gives the band a edger sound, Bob is sounding as good if not better than ever and what can you say about Tony Clarkin, the man is a genius. 'Freedom Day' and 'Dance Of The Black Tattoo' are defining Magnums new heavier sound and the band aren't afraid to play them live with both pianist Mark Stanway , five string bass player Al Barrow and drummer Harry James delivery a power house of a rhythm section. 'Blood Red Laughter' is another strong track and deserves a place at the live table as well as the slow burning 'Unwritten sacrifice'. The second half of the [...]

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The Treatment reveal new singer

Cambridge based rockers, The Treatment have revealed the identity of their new singer.  Mitchell Emms replaces Matt Jones who parted ways with the band in an amicable split earlier this year.  Mitchell Emms appeared on the BBC talent show The Voice in 2013 and reached the live stages. While the news of Mitchell Emms joining theCambridge based rockers, The Treatment have revealed the identity of their new singer.  Mitchell Emms replaces Matt Jones who parted ways with the band in an amicable split earlier this year.  Mitchell Emms appeared on the BBC talent show The Voice in 2013 and reached the live stages. While the news of Mitchell Emms joining the band has only been made public today, Planetmosh have known for some time having been at the band's super-secret first gig with him, when they supported The Courtesans at the Craufurd Arms in Wolverton (Milton Keynes) – where The Treatment appeared under the name The Mark Skids. Here are some photos of The Treatment's first gig with Mitchell Emms on vocals…  

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Gov’t Mule-Stoned Side Of The Mule (Vol 1 & 2).

Few bands have a reputation for making music as consistently honest, organic, and daring as Gov't Mule. But in curveball mode, and for the first time in its 20-year career, Gov't Mule has delved into its vaults for Stoned Side Of The Mule (Vol 1 & 2). After last December's Dark Side of the Mule, January'sFew bands have a reputation for making music as consistently honest, organic, and daring as Gov't Mule. But in curveball mode, and for the first time in its 20-year career, Gov't Mule has delved into its vaults for Stoned Side Of The Mule (Vol 1 & 2). After last December's Dark Side of the Mule, January's Sco-Mule, and Dub Side of the Mule (released April 6th) the fourth and last release in this series will be called Stoned Side Of The Mule. It will be a limited-run, vinyl-only release of highlights from its fabled Halloween 2009 performance at the Tower Theater outside of Philadelphia. The show featured a long and varied set of impassioned, expertly executed Rolling Stones covers as only the Mule can deliver, with special guests Jackie Greene (Phil Lesh & Friends, Black Crowes, Trigger Hippy) and saxophonist Steve Elson (Stevie Ray Vaughan, Radiohead, David Bowie). The 2-LP with the Mule ripping through impassioned Rolling Stone covers is newly-edited and mastered. On this release we have 13 tracks taken from the vast back catalogue of the greatest rock n roll band of all time, the Rolling Stones. The Mule cover such great tracks like Under My Thumb, Paint In [...]

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Trucker Diablo are Off Yer Rocka with new deal

Renascent Northern Ireland hard rockers Trucker Diablo have signed to Off Yer Rocka Recordings, who will give a wider release to the band's latest album, 'Rise Above The Noise' - originally recorded and issued via a PledgeMusic campaign - later this year.  The album will be preceded by an EP. A statement on the Off Yer Rocka FacebookRenascent Northern Ireland hard rockers Trucker Diablo have signed to Off Yer Rocka Recordings, who will give a wider release to the band's latest album, 'Rise Above The Noise' – originally recorded and issued via a PledgeMusic campaign – later this year.  The album will be preceded by an EP. A statement on the Off Yer Rocka Facebook page stated:  "They're back and what an album we have in store for you!  When the masters hit our desk, we knew instantly that it was exactly the sound that OYR were looking to sign!" OYR CEO Jonni Davis added:  "We've known Trucker for a long time this is a huge musical thrust north, it's just a great FKN album and sits perfectly into what we're all about.. can't wait to get this one out there." Trucker Diablo's Tom Harte stated: "When we decided to set up a Pledge campaign for our new album, signing with a label was far from the agenda.  When OYR got in touch, it was like an old friend getting in contact.  We have been friends with the guys for quite a few years now and have been lucky enough to be a part of the amazing [...]

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Deep Purple - Long Beach 1971

Over the last couple of years, earMUSIC have released several live albums from Deep Purple - "Paris 1975", "Copenhagen 1972", "Stockholm 1970" and "Graz 1975".  Now the band's show at Long Beach Arena in Long Beach, California, on July 30, 1971 is being released.  The concert features the Mk II lineup of the band - Over the last couple of years, earMUSIC have released several live albums from Deep Purple – "Paris 1975", "Copenhagen 1972", "Stockholm 1970" and "Graz 1975".  Now the band's show at Long Beach Arena in Long Beach, California, on July 30, 1971 is being released.  The concert features the Mk II lineup of the band –  Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord and Ian Paice.  The concert was broadcast on radio at the time but this is the first time it's been officially available as an album, and the music has been re-mastered for this release. The first thing that will strike most people is the track listing – just 4 songs.  Generally four songs would be an EP, and certainly wouldn't be enough for a live album, but this was recorded at a time when Deep Purple liked to jam and extend the songs rather than just playing the album versions.  As a result the shortest song here is 11 minutes long, and the longest is 27 minutes, so those four songs add up to 71 minutes. At the time of this concert the band had released "In rock" – a pivotal moment in their history as it [...]

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Heavens Gate To Release 'Best For Sale!' Compilation

Heavens Gate To Release 'Best For Sale!' Compilation From their first days in 1987 until their break in 1999, HEAVENS GATE were among the top representatives of German Heavy Metal. They had a large fan base, especially in Japan, and their albums such as 'In Control', 'Livin' In Hysteria' or 'Hell For Sale!', are respected asHeavens Gate To Release 'Best For Sale!' Compilation Heavens Gate – Best For Sale! (Album Art) From their first days in 1987 until their break in 1999, HEAVENS GATE were among the top representatives of German Heavy Metal. They had a large fan base, especially in Japan, and their albums such as 'In Control', 'Livin' In Hysteria' or 'Hell For Sale!', are respected as some of the best German Metal albums, and are often listed in one line with classic albums of bands such as HELLOWEEN or BLIND GUARDIAN. Back in the day band played regular tours with acts such as W.A.S.P., DREAM THEATER, as well as own headlining ones. HEAVENS GATE featured in its ranks legendary producer Sascha Paeth (EDGUY, EPICA, KAMELOT), and vocalist Thomas Rettke (AVANTASIA, AINA).  "Best For Sale!" will be released via Limb Music on June 19, 2015, and will be available as CD (with 17 tracks) and digital download (with 20 tracks).  More information: www.limb-music.com Heavens Gate

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Triaxis - Zero hour

British band Triaxis are about to release their third album - Zero hour.  The album was recorded following a Pledgemusic campaign to raise the funds, and which reached its goal on the day the campaign launched - such is the support the band have from their fans.  The band's first album "Keys to the kingdom"British band Triaxis are about to release their third album – Zero hour.  The album was recorded following a Pledgemusic campaign to raise the funds, and which reached its goal on the day the campaign launched – such is the support the band have from their fans.  The band's first album "Keys to the kingdom" was good, and second album "Rage & Retribution" was even better, so can Triaxis continue this upward trend?  In short, yes they can – the new album is their best yet. It's an impressive piece of work in every respect.  Twelve tracks clock in with a running time of One hour and 12 minutes, which is pretty damn impressive since most albums are around 35-45 minutes long – in the old days of vinyl this would have no doubt have been a double album.  The shortest track is around 4 minutes long and the longest is well over 10 minutes. Brief comments on a few songs… The album is the band's loudest and heaviest album yet – I can't wait to hear some of these songs being played live.  The opening guitar part for the first song on the album, "Liberty" is superb and straight [...]

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RavenEye - Breaking Out

British band RavenEye may be a new name to many, but fans who saw Blues Pills on their latest UK tour will have seen RavenEye supporting them.  I saw their set in London and was really impressed, so the fact they're releasing an EP in May is good news. RavenEye are the brainchild of singer/guitarist OliBritish band RavenEye may be a new name to many, but fans who saw Blues Pills on their latest UK tour will have seen RavenEye supporting them.  I saw their set in London and was really impressed, so the fact they're releasing an EP in May is good news. RavenEye are the brainchild of singer/guitarist Oli Brown who wrote the songs on this EP last year then recruited drummer Kev Hickman and bassist Aaron Spiers to form a live band to take the songs out on the road.  The strength of the material is clear – not only have they supported Blues Pills, they're also supporting Slash on some of his European dates. The EP kicks off with the title track, "Breaking out".  The guitar in the first few seconds sounds very much like the Doctor Who theme music, before it leads into the main part of the song – and what a song it is.  An absolutely superb blues infused rock track.  It's a great start to the EP, and this track alone is enough to justify buying the EP to support the band. That really sets the tone for the rest of the EP – it's a 5 [...]

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Aonia announce Sunset Symphony UK Tour

Critically acclaimed seven-piece symphonic/progressive metal band, Aonia is embarking on a short tour of England from the 27th to 31st of May, along with the French Gothic metal band Alwaid and York-based melodic metal band Lost Effect. Tour dates are: 27-5-15 – O'Riley's, Hull 28-5-15 – The Shed, Leicester 29-5-15 – Rock Zombie, Dudley 30-5-15 – Temple of Boom, Leeds 31-5-15Critically acclaimed seven-piece symphonic/progressive metal band, Aonia is embarking on a short tour of England from the 27th to 31st of May, along with the French Gothic metal band Alwaid and York-based melodic metal band Lost Effect. Tour dates are: 27-5-15 – O'Riley's, Hull 28-5-15 – The Shed, Leicester 29-5-15 – Rock Zombie, Dudley 30-5-15 – Temple of Boom, Leeds 31-5-15 – South Sea Live, Sheffield   Hot off the heels of their own 'Aoniafest' (where they were joined onstage by ex-Iron Maiden vocalist Blaze Bayley) and the acclaimed Dames of Darkness Festival (where they are supporting Norwegian Gothic metal band Sirenia), Aonia is thrilled to be headlining their own short tour. Aonia is joint-fronted by two professionally trained operatic sopranos and features a range of talented musicians, including the Polish guitarist Przemek Druzkowski, of Druzkowski guitars (ex-Infernal Maze [PL], ex-Liquid Shadow [PL]); drummer Tony Gaskell (ex-VeXed, ex-Cathexis); bassist Gary (ex-Platinum Airship); guitarist James (ex-From the Depths), and keyboardist Tim (The Spinal Taps, Overdrive, The Beautiful Sound, Bluesbursters, ex-Shadowkeep). About the upcoming tour, co-vocalist Mel remarked, "I'm so excited to be playing some great venues with two fantastic bands. It's a real privilege to be able to do this! I'm [...]

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Bloodstock Metal 2 The Masses enters final stages

Bloodstock's 2015 'Metal 2 The Masses' tour kicks off on the Emerald Isle this weekend, with the first finals in this year's competition to earn coveted places on the festival's 'New Blood' stage. The festival has a long standing reputation for supporting grass roots metal and the annual M2TM programme is at the forefront of that.  2015Bloodstock's 2015 'Metal 2 The Masses' tour kicks off on the Emerald Isle this weekend, with the first finals in this year's competition to earn coveted places on the festival's 'New Blood' stage. The festival has a long standing reputation for supporting grass roots metal and the annual M2TM programme is at the forefront of that.  2015 has been M2TM's biggest programme to date, with 22 venues participating, and hundreds of unsigned or self-released bands taking part, each one hoping to land a slot in their local final – the first of which takes place in Belfast this coming Friday (May 8). It's not just UK and Irish acts that Bloodstock gives opportunities to, as bands from across the world can also enter for a slot on the Hobgoblin New Blood stage by uploading a video to http://www.wychwood.co.uk/#/mischeif//competitions/Bloodstock.  Winners will be chosen by the Bloodstock panel from submitted videos.  The first batch of lucky bands have been chosen (there'll be more, so don't worry if you've not uploaded your video yet). Friday's bill will include the Cotswold-based modern metal outfit Mutagenocide, Canadian progsters Diatessraron  and Welsh groove metallers, Piss Viper.  Saturday's bill includes Codex Alimentarus' groove/thrash/classical infusion, progressive tech metallers [...]

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Whitesnake - "Soldier of Fortune" video

Whitesnake have just unleased a new promo video for "Soldier of Fortune" - a song taken from their forthcoming album " The Purple Album". The Purple Album will be released in Europe on May 15th, the UK on May 18th and in North America on May 19th via Frontiers Music SRL. The Purple Album is aWhitesnake have just unleased a new promo video for "Soldier of Fortune" – a song taken from their forthcoming album " The Purple Album". The Purple Album will be released in Europe on May 15th, the UK on May 18th and in North America on May 19th via Frontiers Music SRL. The Purple Album is a re-imagination of classic songs from David Coverdale's time as the lead singer for Deep Purple's Mark 3 and Mark 4 studio albums. The album is currently available for pre-order in various configurations on Amazon – Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition featuring 2 bonus tracks, 4 music videos and a behind the scenes featurette on the recording of the album, and in a double LP vinyl format. Plans are also underway for a special limited box set edition with memorabilia and merchandise. All details will be announced soon. "It's a tribute. A homage. It's a huge thank you from me to Deep Purple for the opportunity I was given over 40 years ago," says Coverdale. "As I said to Ritchie, you guys set me on an incredible journey that continues today and I couldn't have asked for better teachers. The university of Deep Purple is an [...]

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ARCH ENEMY – launch video for 'Stolen Life (2015 Version)'

Right before extreme metal titans ARCH ENEMY kick off their next European tour in France tonight, they are releasing a digital single for the track 'Stolen Life (2015 Version)'. This brand-new version of the song that was originally released on the 2014 album, War Eternal, features additional lead/solo parts of their new guitarist Jeff LoomisRight before extreme metal titans ARCH ENEMY kick off their next European tour in France tonight, they are releasing a digital single for the track 'Stolen Life (2015 Version)'. This brand-new version of the song that was originally released on the 2014 album, War Eternal, features additional lead/solo parts of their new guitarist Jeff Loomis and is available as of now! Get 'Stolen Life (2015 Version)' here: iTunes – http://smarturl.it/stolenlifeITUNES AmazonMP3 – http://smarturl.it/stolenlifeAMAZONMP3 ARCH ENEMY also launch a new video for 'Stolen Life (2015 Version)', which was directed and produced by Carlos Toro V. (Abysmo Films). It was filmed in Chile during their recent Latin America tour in early 2015. ARCH ENEMY founder and guitarist Michael Amott comments: "I can't believe it's been almost a year since we released the ‛War Eternal‛ album! Time flies when you're having fun huh?! We're just starting up our summer tour here in Europe and there's still a long way to go – we're booked up till Christmas! There has been such an amazing reaction to the new music and lineup and it is really keeping us motivated. Having Jeff Loomis out with us on the road is fantastic. A fine player and a true gentleman. [...]

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Citizen "Cement" Their Place on Noisey, Sophomore LP "Everybody Is Going To Heaven" Out 6/23/15 on Run For Cover Records

Citizen have announced that they will release their highly anticipated sophomore albumEverybody Is Going To Heaven on June 23, 2015 via Run For Cover Records.  The band revealed the first single of the album, "Cement" today on Noisey.  Marrying gloom and beauty with the confrontational lyrics of singer Mat Kerekes, "Cement" is just the firstCitizen have announced that they will release their highly anticipated sophomore albumEverybody Is Going To Heaven on June 23, 2015 via Run For Cover Records.  The band revealed the first single of the album, "Cement" today on Noisey.  Marrying gloom and beauty with the confrontational lyrics of singer Mat Kerekes, "Cement" is just the first taste of a record that represents just how far Citizen have come since the release of their wildly popular 2013 debut LP Youth, which helped to put the band on the map as one to watch. Pre-order for Everybody Is Going To Heaven is available today via Run For Cover Records. Listen to "Cement" Recorded with Will Yip at Studio 4, Everybody Is Going To Heaven presents the most fully realized version of the band to date in spite of it being their most dissonant and chaotic material they have ever written. Members Nick Hamm (guitar, vocals), Jake Duhaime (drums), Ryland Oehlers (guitar) and Eric Hamm's (bass) contributions are celebrated through an abrasive atmospheric core that oscillates between unforgiving and nurturing, while singer Mat Kerekes careens between distress and violent bliss, tackling a variety of heady topics. Between the Billboard-charting debut Youth and near constant [...]

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Disarmonia Mundi: new song - Oddities From The Ravishing Chasm - sneak peek video

Here is a short preview of a brand new song entitled "Oddities From The Ravishing Chasm" taken from the forthcomingDisarmonia Mundi album "Cold Inferno" will be released on 9 June 2015 via Coroner Records. You can pre-order Disarmonia Mundi "Cold Inferno" (CD Digipak or T-Shirt or CD Digipak + T-Shirt) here. https://youtu.be/3Bwj7HcyhFo   Track List 1. Creation Dirge 2. Stormghost 3. Behind Closed Doors 4. Coffin 5. OdditiesHere is a short preview of a brand new song entitled "Oddities From The Ravishing Chasm" taken from the forthcomingDisarmonia Mundi album "Cold Inferno" will be released on 9 June 2015 via Coroner Records. You can pre-order Disarmonia Mundi "Cold Inferno" (CD Digipak or T-Shirt or CD Digipak + T-Shirt) here.   Track List 1. Creation Dirge 2. Stormghost 3. Behind Closed Doors 4. Coffin 5. Oddities From The Ravishing Chasm 6. Slaves To The Illusion Of Life 7. Blessing From Below 8. Magma Diver 9. Clay Of Hate 10. Toys Of Acceleration The album has been produced, engineered, recorded, mixed and mastered by Ettore Rigotti at The Metal House. As for previous Disarmonia Mundi releases Björn Strid (Soilwork, The Night Flight Orchestra) appears on guest vocals.

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Cave Of Swimmers Release New Music Video 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air'

Cave Of Swimmers Release New Music Video 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air' With the release of Reflection just yesterday, Cave Of Swimmers have released a brand new music video for lead single 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air'. 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air' was shot and directed by OrlandoCave Of Swimmers Release New Music Video 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air' With the release of Reflection just yesterday, Cave Of Swimmers have released a brand new music video for lead single 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air'. 'The Prince Of The Power Of The Air' was shot and directed by Orlando based artist Maz Armageddon. With a sound that seamlessly weaves through multiple genres including Heavy Metal, 70's Hard Rock, Doom, Stoner, Sludge, Cave Of Swimmers are a band on the rise and a band to watch. The Miami duo have also caught the attention of a certain ex-member of Metallica, Mr Jason Newsted who said, "As musicians, COS are top-notch, naturally gifted players… As a band, they could go toe to toe with any of the decent up & coming bands that are currently performing live at popular European festivals. As a collection of sounds and songs in the heavy vein, orchestrated & performed by two people (live or in studio); Cave Of Swimmers are truly unique in their creativity & execution, and… Their name can now be shouted and screamed in the same breath as Royal Blood & Deap Vally!!! Cave Of [...]

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Undobar : new album "Dark & rusty" for entire streaming

A few weeks after its official release on CD and digital on the main legal platforms (iTunes, Deezer, Spotify, Amazon..), "Dark & rusty", the brand new record by French folk/rock outfit Undobar is now also available on vinyl format through its own webstore. To celebrate this release, the band just put the album for entire streaming on Bandcamp. Stream the album for full on
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RavenEye review links EP release May 11th

RavenEye are set to release their debut EP "Breaking Out" via Rook Recordings on 11th May 2015.  The band has just finished touring with  Blues Pills and will head out to Europe next month for dates as main support to Slash. Even though he's still only 25 year sold, Oli Brown, singer and multi award winningRavenEye are set to release their debut EP "Breaking Out" via Rook Recordings on 11th May 2015.  The band has just finished touring with  Blues Pills and will head out to Europe next month for dates as main support to Slash. Even though he's still only 25 year sold, Oli Brown, singer and multi award winning guitarist, has already released four solo albums and toured the world for 10 years supporting Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter and Joe Satriani amongst others. He recorded the 5 tracks on "Breaking Out" late last year, and formed a band to take the songs out live – et voilà – RavenEye was born. RavenEye have already been making waves, with Classic Rock calling lead track 'Breaking Out' a 'filthy monster of a song'.  You Tube sensation FrankieOnPC chose to feature it on one of his video games leading to over 100,000 plays on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/itsraveneye/breaking-out.  Stream the Warren Riker produced EP in full here: http://smarturl.it/Raveneye Following the Blues Pills tour,  the band, also comprising of drummer Kev Hickman and bassist Aaron Spiers, support Slash in June. June 2015 Mon 1st              Oslo, Sentrum Scene Sun 28th             Bucharest, Arnele Romane July 2015 Thurs 2nd [...]

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UK thrash legends Acid Reign are back

'It's not a reformation, it's a reboot!' Howard 'H' Smith  Twenty four years is a long time in anyone's book, but that is how long it's been since the 'Kings Of Apple Core' Acid Reign have been missing from the UK thrash scene. More of a reboot than a reformation, sole original member Howard 'H' Smith comments;'It's not a reformation, it's a reboot!' Howard 'H' Smith  Twenty four years is a long time in anyone's book, but that is how long it's been since the 'Kings Of Apple Core' Acid Reign have been missing from the UK thrash scene. More of a reboot than a reformation, sole original member Howard 'H' Smith comments; "I tried to put the old line up back together the guys were unable to do it for differing reasons. Then, in the summer of 2014, I started toying with the idea of a new line up and it came together quite quickly. We're taking it slowly, learning the old stuff and playing with new ideas too. It's not a reformation it's a reboot. Even if it was the old line up it would be different, it's been 24 years! The main thing is that the goodwill toward Acid Reign has never been stronger, everywhere I go people are saying we should come back and eventually I actually fucking listened!" A band considered ahead of their time by many, Acid Reign were one of the leading lights of the UK trash attack and spent time on the road with the likes of Exodus,Nuclear [...]

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Kings Destroy: self-titled album out now

New York City stoner/doom rock collective, KINGS DESTROY have today released their self titled, third album.  The follow-up to last year's critically-lauded A Time Of Hunting full-length was produced and mixed by Sanford Parker (Twilight, Voivod, Eyehategod, Yob etc.) at Studio G in Brooklyn, mastered by Collin Jordan (Eyehategod, Indian, Wovenhand, Voivod etc.) at The Boiler Room in Chicago, and delivers seven, lead-footed doomNew York City stoner/doom rock collective, KINGS DESTROY have today released their self titled, third album.  The follow-up to last year's critically-lauded A Time Of Hunting full-length was produced and mixed by Sanford Parker (Twilight, Voivod, Eyehategod, Yob etc.) at Studio G in Brooklyn, mastered by Collin Jordan (Eyehategod, Indian, Wovenhand, Voivod etc.) at The Boiler Room in Chicago, and delivers seven, lead-footed doom rock hymns. The quintet feature within their ranks guitarists Carl Porcaro and Chris Skowronski from Killing Time, vocalist Steve Murphy from Uppercut, drummer Rob Sefcik formerly of The Begotten, Uppercut, Fur and Electric Frankenstein and bassist Aaron Bumpus. With their third album in four years, KINGS DESTROY leave their hardcore-born stamp on noise rock and doom. After sharing stages with Pentagram, Winter, Saint Vitus, Church of Misery, Yob, Pallbearer, Vista Chino, Orange Goblin, Trouble, Acid King, Corrosion Of Conformity and so many others, the five-piece stand tall with their defining statement. Vocalist, Steve Murphy, comments: "In an age where music is created in the box and listened to from the cloud, we present our self titled, third album – as tangible a thing as we could make it. We recorded this live. Five musicians standing in a room together playing through amps that have tubes in [...]

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