FEATURED REVIEWS

ADIASTASIA - Life War (Bombworks re-issue)
A literal flood of Christian metal bands have come out of Brazil in recent years.  And Adiastasia, with its double bass driven brand of power metal, is the next in line in what has been at times an erratic and at others a very rewarding succession of talent to originate from the country in question: Belica, Destra, Dracma, Dynasty, Eterna, Menahem, Seven Angels, Shining Star, Stauros, Sunroad and many others.  So how does Adiastasia measure up?  Read Full Review >>

DEAD MOONS GREY - DMG
Dead Moons Grey comprises two key members: Marcus Bersaglia (lead vocals & guitars) and David Peters (drums).  On DMG the two blend elements of hard rock, metal, blues and groove while staying true to their Southern Appalachian roots through the use of regional instrumentation such as acoustic guitar, banjo, jaw hard and slide guitar.  Read Full Review >>

DEGARMO & KEY - D & K
Now, DeGarmo & Key might not quite reflect some of the gritty blues driven sensibilities of its first two albums on D & K but certainly rocks hard – at times crossing the threshold of hard rock – in creating a work characterized by catchy choruses and notable melodies (the songwriting here is fantastic), polished (but not too polished) production and the strong musicianship that Eddie and Dana bring to the table.  Read Full Review >>

PASTOR BRAD - Break Out!
What does it add up to?  That when at the top of his game PB can write a great vocal based song featuring solid melody structures, big grooving bass lines – one of my favorite aspects to Break Out! – and his trademark shredding soloing abilities, as he aptly demonstrates on ”Cold Blooded Killer” and “I Wanna Be”.  Read Full Review >>

STAIRWAY - Interregnum
Musically, Interregnum trends towards the mid-tempo in featuring solid melodies and chorus hooks, well placed backing vocals, shredding lead guitar work (courtesy of Pete Jennens, one of my all time favorite guitarists) and Graeme Leslie’s trademark smooth mid-ranged vocal presence.  Read Full Review >>

VISION - Mountain In The Sky
What Vision brings to the table is a joining of commercial hard rock and classic rock with a heavy seventies and eighties slant.  The occasional progressive overtone, at the same time, cannot help but bring to mind Kansas or even AD.  Of course, with two former Lynyrd Skynryd members you are going to get some hard edged southern influences as well (think 38 Special).  Read Full Review >>

VISION - Vision
Of the five new tracks, “Standing On The Rock” is a Christian hard rock classic that ranks with the finest the genre has produced.  We also get a couple of other hard rockers, “Don’t Say Its Over” and “You Are My Only Lord”, along with a boogie flavored high energy piece, “You’re The One”.  Rounding things out is a customary (albeit predictable) ballad in “Psalm 23”.  Read Full Review >>

XINR - Beyond Woodward
What this reviewer hears is an “old school metal vibe” that brings to mind the earlier material of Barren Cross, Saint, Bride, Messiah Prophet and Philadelphia.  Yes, a bit rough around the edges at times (at least production wise) but solid musically in that XINR knows how to craft a quality song with enough hooks to draw you in with repeated listen (there is barely a skip button in the first ten tracks).  Read Full Review >

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

CROSSWIRE release debut album, A World In Flame:
The Lawton, Oklahoma four piece unit recently put out its first album:

Press Release / CROSSWIRE started with the songwriting duo of brothers Seth and Noah Copeland. The musical chemistry that brothers can have is legendary (i.e. AC/DC, VAN HALEN, THE STOOGES, BRIDE) so you know they are bound to have something worthwhile.  Seth is the charismatic front man and Noah is the kid with the sassy, fast guitar solos. Along with the brothers is the pounding Keith Jones, the hardest hitting drummer you've heard, and the most originally groovy bassist, Justin Wait.

The group describes its music as “raw, hard, and monolithic” and “lyrics equally passionate, addictive, inspirational and motivating”.  But enough talk, let the songs speak for themselves. Give CROSSWIRE a listen and check out their recently-released debut album, A World In Flame.

A World In Flame track listing:

1. “Rich Man”
2. “Can't Stop Us Now”
3. “Love On The Road”
4. “Look To The Sky”
5. “World In Flame”
6. “Done With You”
7. “Just-In Case”
8. “Desert Eagle Blues”
9. “Miles To Go”
10. “Southbound Train”

CROSSWIRE brings an energetic hard rock sound reminiscent to MAIN LINE RIDERS, THIEVES & LIARS, AC/DC and RESURRECTION BAND.  Some of the groups bluesy material even hearkens back to early nineties BRIDE or a more hard rocking version of GLENN KAISER BAND.  Look for a favorable review in the near future.

CROSSWIRE online: www.facebook.com/crosswireband

CRYSTAVOX - The Twenty Year Mix delayed:
An update from Roxx Productions regarding the release of the two CD set The Twenty Year Mix by CRYSTAVOX:

Press Release / We apologize for the delay, but we had to push the CRYSTAVOX release to the end of July- but it is going to be well worth the wait!  In the meantime we have some cool new announcements about The Twenty Year Mix:

First the brand new single “Shame” will be going out to radio next week! Listen for it and request it on your favorite rock Radio!

Disc one will be a completely re-mastered “Best Of” CD consisting of many of your favorite CRYSTAVOX tracks, including “Sacrifice”, “Home Again”, “Power Games”, “Its All Right”, “Shame”, “Big Picture”, “Snakes”, “Paradise”, “No Boundaries”, “Guns”, “Break Down The Walls” and “Cry Out”. All these tracks were taken straight from the master tapes that had been sitting in storage in the Ocean Records archives for close to twenty years. These tracks have been completely re-mastered and totally redone: new guitars, drums and an over-sampling method vastly increasing the mastered volume of each song to today’s standards making for an optimal sound that brings these tracks straight in to the modern day.

 Disc two will be a very special DVD release consisting of a recently discovered “never before released’ live concert footage and also several MTV style video clips that have never before been officially released. All footage has had the color completely corrected and restored and has been completely re-mastered in the 16:9 format. In addition to all of this classic re-mastered video footage the DVD will also include a recently recorded, “where are they now” segment - shot in HD, and featuring the band “self narrating” the story of CRYSTAVOX.

If all that isn’t enough for you then you will definitely want to get your order in early as everyone that gets in on the pre-order will receive an exclusive 3rd disc that will only be made available to those that pre-order. This bonus disc is a Live EP of a behind the scenes recording taken straight from the soundboard at a New Year’s Eve show in San Diego California on December 31st 1992. This would ultimately be the last and only live audio recording CRYSTAVOX would ever do. Head over to www.roxxproductions.com to get your order in early and take advantage of this strictly limited edition bonus disc.

And check out the track release for the bonus disc which all you collectors are going to REALLY want to pick up:

1. "FAME" - a long lost demo track from an early incarnation of CRYSTAVOX called WINDOWS & MIRRORS
2, "YOU ARE THE ONE" - an early CRYSTAVOX song that never made the cut
3. "THE BIG PICTURE" - recorded live in 1992
4. "STICK TO YOUR GUNS" - recorded live in 1992
5. The Demo Session 2001- "The Road Less Traveled" ( previously never released_
6. Radio Promos from 1989-1992

This pre-sale is almost over!!!! And this has been one of the best sellers we have had!  We are expecting the full 1000 of this release to be one of our quickest movers and shakers get your orders in quick!

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

CRYSTAVOX online: www.adamleekemp.com/crystavox-and-band-home

MISSION OF ONE update:
Vocalist and bassist Chris Dickens offers the latest regarding the next album, Hostile To The Gospel, of his MISSION OF ONE project:

“I have been working the last few weeks on a couple of lines here and a couple of lines there as far as vocals go. I have a few lead guitar solo tweaks to make as far as timing issues go, and then I am ready to begin the tedious job of mixing. I might actually get this finished before 2020!

"I do have two vocalists who are supposed to be working with me. One cannot start until July. The other has had tracks for some time. If either come through with tracks before I finish mix down, then I'll go with the stronger singer. But, I did the best I could and tried not to copy anyone. There are some gruff vocals, and some clean. Instead of trying to sing higher than my voice will allow, I did a few things different and tried to bring my register down and still sound metal. I like it, and I don't think that MISSION OF ONE will sound like anyone else out there.

"As it stands, I'm all there is. The one song I had by another singer I just decided not to use the vocals. It takes away from the "band sound" that I want.

"One thing that you will notice if I use my own voice is the difference in vocals. I am using a couple of different “voicings”. I am doing a lot of low baritone stuff here, some really gruff vocals in places, some upper mid range clean vocals, and some upper mid range raspy voice, too. I've really tried to do my best, get the best sound I could, and do something different than everyone else. I think I might have succeeded in the final part.

"I used quite a few guitarists on this CD to finish the leads. David Franey, a fellow Tennessean that I met through Craigslist, did quite a few solos. The other players are:

Pastor Brad (Roxx Records)
Kevin Hasselquist (SARDIS)
JD Evans (LETTER 7)
March Leach

"The songs have a bit of range in them. Some of the songs have a definite AC/DC vibe. One song definitely feels like a Zepplin tune. There are a couple of heavier tunes that have more of a power metal feel to them. I also redid an old southern gospel tune called "Just Over In The Gloryland" (I call it "Gloryland") and it has a kind of a bluesy feel. I kept the vocal melody and even the southern gospel harmonies. I love the way it feels."

MISSION OF ONE is a bluesy hard rock project out of Watertown, Tennessee.  The first MISSION OF ONE album, released under the moniker MISSIONARY ONE and entitled Take Another Swig, preceded the 2005 offering Show Me The Way and a self-titled release from 2008.

MISSION OF ONE online: www.missionofone.com & www.facebook.com/missionofone

SAINT - In The Battle re-issue details revealed:
Press Release / When 2004 rolled around Salem, Oregon based Christian metal legends, SAINT, returned with their first full length studio release in fifteen long years – In the Battle!  After getting started in 1984 with a low budget six song EP entitled Warriors Of The Son, Saint signed to Pure Metal Records and followed up two years later with its full length debut, Time's End.  The band may have reached their artistic pinnacle, however, with 1988’s Too Late For Living. Both Times End and Too Late For Living were recently voted top 10 Christian metal classics by the readers of Untombed Magazine.  Saint briefly reunited in 1999 for a six song EP entitled The Perfect Life that, disappointingly, sounded like a demo and failed to include original vocalist Josh Kramer.  Five years later, In The Battle would find SAINT returning to its classic metal roots of the 80s in addition to welcoming Josh Kramer back into the fold.  Don’t expect grungy modern metal from SAINT.  Expect a lesson in EXACTLY what old-school metal should sound like.  When you think of metal, think of SAINT. 

This 2010 Retroactive Records re-release features all new artwork in a Collector’s Edition 6 panel full color digipak.  The audio has been completely re-mastered by J Powell at Steinhaus (TITANIC, REX CARROLL BAND, GUARDIAN, MALICE reissues) for maximum sound quality. Offering the total package, In the Battle only solidifies SAINT as a tremendous force in crunchy, traditional, heavy metal. Often compared to JUDAS PRIEST, the muscular guitar riffs and elite vocals also bring to mind BARREN CROSS, DIO, BLOODGOOD and IRON MAIDEN.

In The Battle track listing:

1.  “In The Battle”                    
2.  “Star Pilot Return”               
3.  “Here We Are”                    
4.  “Sacrifice”                           
5.  “Holy Rollin’”                       
6. “Ryders”
7. “The Choice”
8. “When”
9. “Acid Rain”
10. “Full Armor”

SAINT online: www.saintsite.com & www.facebook.com/saintband

VERTICAL ALIGNMENT advance single downloads:
Press Release / VERTICAL ALIGNMENT is pleased to release our first advance single from The Trail Of Tears Suite. The song is “Land And Sky”, which tells the story of the Cherokees just before and through their contact with white Europeans. Penned by Peter J and with vocals by Mike Florio, it captures a time that is forever lost. The song also features members of AJALON as guest musicians along with former GLASS HAMMER guitarist, David Wallimann. Enjoy the song that started The Trail Of Tears Suite almost four years ago.

“Land and Sky” features:

Mike Florio - Lead Vocals
Peter J - Backing Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards, Cherokee Flute
David Wallimann - Guitars
Randy George - Piano & Bass
Dan Lile - Drums

“Native Son,” the second advance single from The Trail of Tears Suite, is an unusual look at Cherokee humorist, writer, radio personality, and actor Will Rogers. This man carved a place in the early 20th century with his homespun wit and wisdom along with a healthy dose of finely barbed political commentary. This song was written by Mike Florio with a little help from Peter J and is beautifully sung by Mike. Kevin Thomas (SALEM HILL).  Kevin Thomas joins the band on drums.

VERTICAL ALIGNMENT is indebted to America's premier Will Rogers impersonator, Randall Reeder, who added pithy quotes that you'll hear sprinkled through the song. Randall, along with the Will Rogers Museum, verified that all quotes used are the genuine words of Will.

“Native Son” features:

Mike Florio - Lead Vocals & Keyboards
Randall Reeder - Narration
Peter J - Backing Vocals, Guitars & Keyboards
Jaymi Millard - Bass
Kevin Thomas - Drums

VERTICAL ALIGNMENT online:  www.facebook.com/VerticalAlignment

NEWS BRIEFS

* Another short studio update from DARKWATER: “Almost everything is now recorded.  Henrik (Båth) has got some more vocals left, and then there are some minor stuff to take care of. In just a few days Mr Fredrik Nordström will start mixing the album and we're thrilled about it all! Thanks for your patience!”

* Please pray for LETTER 7 vocalist Steve Young, who suffered a head injury last year.  The band is on temporary hiatus while Steve is recovering.

* On July 16 MAD MAX will release its new studio album, Welcome America, on A-Minor Records. Look for the first video - shot on location at the Rocklahoma Festival in Nashville, Tennesse - to come out within the next month.

Welcome America track listing: "Welcome America", "Big Wheel", "Someone Not Me", "All I Ever Want", "Cherry Moon", "Pinky Promise", "Shape Of Your Heart", "Signs", "Awesome", "My Heart's Been Waiting", "This Means Nothin'"

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Dana Key tribute:
DEGARMO & KEY founding member passed away on June 6, 2010:

Press Release / Legendary gospel music performer Dana Key of Christian music pioneers DEGARMO & KEY died Sunday, June 6, 2010 from a ruptured blood clot at age 56.  Although Key was originally from Memphis, Tennessee (as is Eddie DeGarmo), Dana Key spent much time in Nashville, until his retirement when he served as the head of Ardent Records, hosted a TV show, featuring new Christian bands, and served as the pastor of a small church in Cordova, Tennessee.

Keyboardist Eddie DeGarmo offers his thoughts: "Dana Key was an awesome guy. Extremely talented for sure, but he was much more than that. He was absolutely passionately in love with Christ, his wife Anita and their three children. He lived his life fully dedicated to building God's kingdom with every breath he took. He was a true pioneer. He could preach the Gospel in a way that compelled thousands to accept Christ and he could play guitar and sing like you were getting a glimpse of his soul. He was my friend and my brother. The world will miss him. I will miss him dearly."

In their earlier years, Eddie and Dana were actually part of a secular pop rock band named GLOBE. However, after becoming Christians, they left the band and formed what first was THE DEGARMO & KEY BAND and later shortened to just DEGARMO & KEY. During the band's run, they had the privilege of playing with such Christian music groups and artists as PETRA, RESURRECTION BAND and SERVANT.

Eddie DeGarmo and Dana Key began playing professionally in 1978.  Eddie handled keyboards and Dana guitar and majority of the lead vocals.  Although debuting in the late seventies with its first two releases, This Time Thru (1978) and Straight On (1979), DEGARMO & KEY put out a sting of hit albums in the decades that followed: Mission Of Mercy (1983), Communication (1984), Street Light (1986), D & K (1987), The Pledge (1989), Heat It Up (1993) and To Extremes (1994).

In addition to his work with DEGARMO & KEY, Dana also released two solo albums, The Journey (1990) and Part of the Mystery (1995).

A blog that recently counted down the top 50 Christian albums of all time ranked Straight On in the number 11 position.  The following was said about the album in the blog:

“This great release along with one other in the Top 10 I believe will cause the greatest surprise. And not because people won’t believe (DeGarmo & Key) deserves to be listed here, but because their popularity was actually much later in their careers, during the “keyboard pop” phase of Mission Of Mercy and Communication.

But when it came to amazing blue informed, progressive rock nothing in Christian music has come close to this amazing release. It also possesses some of Eddie DeGarmo and Dana Key’s finest lyrical content. They always possessed a strong musical presence, but some would argue that later albums would lack the lyrical depth of this release. I’m not sure I fully agree, but would state that Straight On’s content, creativity and originality possesses both musically and lyrically were never matched.”

DeGarmo & Key online: http://degarmoandkey.webs.com

NEWS BRIEF

* DESYRE rounded out its line up with a new keyboardist, Lady Soundwave.  The Finnish hair metal act has also written ten new songs and is currently in the rehearsal stage.  Song titles include: “Too Hot For Radio”, “Party Song”, “War Of Stars”, “Mystery Eyes”, “The Magic Of Your Kingdom”, Beyond The Horizon” and “Run Away”.

* SACRED WARRIOR is in the studio (RFM Productions in Aurora, Illinois) working on its next album.  The group promises that it will be “one of (our) heaviest CD’s yet” and that they are not “going to wimp out on the lyrics”.  In the bands own words: “We think that today more that ever we need to bring the Gospel of Jesus to the forefront.”  A release date and working title are yet to be announced.  

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Classic PETRA line-up to reunite:
Press Release / With a new album and the Back To The Rock worldwide tour set to launch this Autumn, the official website of the reunited classic line-up of PETRA has now gone live.

Bringing together Bob Hartman (guitars), Louie Weaver (drums), John Lawry (Keys), Mark Kelly (Bass) and Greg X Volz (vocals), the reunion of the classic PETRA line-up is certain to the music event of 2010-2011, as the band returns to perform legendary tracks like “Bema Seat”, “Judas Kiss”, “Second Wind”, “More Power To Ya” and many, many more.

The band will also head to the studio this summer for a new album in conjunction with the Back To The Rock tour.

As multi-platinum pioneers of CCM, PETRA has released 24 albums, picking up numerous GRAMMY and Dove Awards and induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

dPulse Recordings/2DOT2 Music and Ovrtone Music Group are proud to count PETRA frontman Greg X Volz among of family of artists. A complete catalog of Greg’s solo albums and singles, including The River Is Rising, God Only Knows and many others are available at iTunes and all other major digital music retailers.

Note: PETRA will be back in the studio this summer to re-record a CD of previous hits from the records: Never Say Die, More Power to Ya, Not of this World, and Beat the System.  Classic songs like “More Power to Ya”, “Judas Kiss”, “Grave Robber”, “Adonai”, and “Beat the System” will be revamped with a modern production edge. In addition, the band will craft some new songs to add to the classic hits on each record, with production scheduled to be completed August 10th, 2010.

The tour begins in the USA on October15th and stretches across the globe through 2011.  Dates and venues are currently being scheduled.

Born Twice Records announces VISION re-issues:

Press Release / In 1983, an Assembly of God youth pastor in Florida asked some of his kids to form a band and put on a concert for their youth group. Before long this youth group band would include people of great fame and notoriety who would give great witness of what God had done in their lives. Lead singer Rocco Marshall’s long-time friend, Leon Wilkeson (bassist from LYNYRD SKYNYRD) joined the band. Before long, Leon’s SKYNYRD band mate, pianist Billy Powell, was in jail for a 5th DUI and he asked Leon to visit him. Leon played Billy a VISION song called “Fight the Good Fight”. The song had such a powerful effect on Billy that he immediately joined the band!

VISION now had an impressive pedigree, featuring two members of mainstream rock super-stars, LYNYRD SKYNYRD! By 1984, the band would record their debut record as a custom self-titled release (now titled Mountain In The Sky, recorded in world renown guitarist Pat Travers’ studio with the Full Sail Dream Machine). With no distribution or promotion, this ’84 release has been ultra rare and collectors have been willing to pay hundreds of dollars for this classic rock masterpiece.

The album is 9 songs of wall-to-wall brilliance – chock full of explosive vocal arrangements and indelible guitar riffs. Clearly cut from the Seventies, (KANSAS, BOSTON, BLUE OYSTER CULT) VISION knew how to bring it with infectious hooks, marked progressive rock edges and a huge, biting, melodic guitar attack full of hope-filled lyrics that cut to the heart! The Collector’s Edition exclusive bonus tracks for the Born Twice Records release are two powerful testimonies from Leon and Billy, sharing from their hearts about the difference God made in their lives. This super-star studded band would go on to release a second album on Heartland Records in 1985 featuring several songs from Mountain In The Sky that were completely re-recorded (and quite different) for that album.

In the words of HM Magazine editor, Doug Van Pelt (who contributes special liner notes in the reissue, “I’m confident that, like me, you’ll be really glad to hold this CD in your hands right now. It’s re-release-worthy classic material, indeed.”

Mountain In The Sky track listing:

1. “Mountain In The Sky”
2. “Coming Soon”
3. “Old Man”
4. “Dynamos”
5. “Standing In The Light”
6. “Dedicated”
7. “Fight The Good Fight”
8. “Soldiers Song”
9. “Lord Is My Joy”
10. “Testimony - Billy Powell” (bonus track)
11. “Testimony - Leon Wilkeson” (bonus track)

Press Release / The band recorded their southern/progressive rock masterpiece debut Mountain In the Sky (1984) in Pat Travers’ studio.  The ’84 VISON release features LYNYRD SKYNYRD members, Leon Wilkeson (bass) and Billy Powell (piano), who were trying to cope with life after the tragic 1977 plan crash that killed three members of SKYNYRD (and injuring the others) while the band was at the height of its popularity.  Powell would tell the story of how Wilkeson had been pronounced dead at the scene when a “spirit-filled nurse laid hands on him and raised him from the dead.”  VISION was where both men would find further healing, strength and help from the Almighty.

Powell would continue playing with VISION after the band signed with Heartland Records for a sophomore self-titled release in 1985.  Five tracks from the debut would be completely re-recorded from the ground up, with significant differences in arrangement and production now that they were with a major label.  Five other newly penned songs were also recorded, one of which was the anthemic “Standing On the Rock” which Heaven’s Metal Magazine editor Doug Van Pelt would go on to claim was, “one of the absolute best Christian rock songs of the era.” 

Powell's keyboards, which made SKYNYRD's sound one of the most distinctive in rock and roll history, help VISION’s sound resonate with power and authority.  Marshall’s crystal-clear rock voice (a la Steve Perry or Dennis DeYoung) brings clarity to a powerful message that continues to inspire and move people today.  VISION put together all the necessities of a truly great rock band, combining elements of art rock with solid guitar-driven stadium rock.  Marshall and company created a unique sound all their own that still sounds good 25+ years after it was first recorded!  With prime riff-rockers from start to finish, this album is rock perfection. 

Steve Holland (founder of MOLLY HATCHETT) is quoted as saying, "VISION - I don't need no stinking VISION. I'm blind as a bat as it is....but this old bat has great hearing!  And that's all you need to know with these guys!  Wow!”  Beyond the tragedy, the history, the raging guitars and the killer songs, ultimately, VISION is about an indomitable will; about survival of spirit; unbowed, uniquely American and stubbornly resolute. 

After 10 years of reissuing Christian rock and metal classics, this long out-of-print album has consistently been one of our most requested reissues.  That’s why the label is thrilled to reissue it on CD for the very first time, re-mastered, with exclusive and insightful liner notes and 100% rock!  For fans of KANSAS, STYXY, MYLON LEFEVRE and LYNYRD SKYNRD!

Vision track listing:

1. “Dynamos”               
2. “Lord Is My Joy”        
3. “Old Man”                 
4. “Dedicated”              
5. “Soldiers Song”         
6. “Standing On The Rock”
7. “Don’t Say It’s Over”
8. “Psalm 23”
9. “You Are My Only Lord”
10. “You’re The One”

Born Twice Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/born-twice-records.html

 

FEATURED REVIEWS

AUDIOVISION - Focus
Musically, Focus is similar to The Calling in that it traverses melodic metal territory with the occasional foray into power metal and bluesy hard rock.  The album is characterized by its catchy choruses, polished vocal melodies (almost Stryper-like in capacity), shredding lead work and Christian’s trademark soaring vocal abilities.  Read Full Review >>

MIKE BOTELLO - Rule Of Law
The artist’s second solo release, Rule Of Law on Mijaces Records in late 2009, proves the all around heavier and more consistent effort.  “Heavier” is the key word in that the album heads in a straightforward hard rock direction while mixing in the occasional modern overtone.  Read Full Review >>

THE REX CARROLL BAND - That Was Then, This Is Now
My overall feeling is that it is great to finally hear another project from Rex Carroll, who, with the exception of the re-recording of Whitecross’ self-titled debut in 2005, has not really been heard from since the late nineties.  With this in mind, what I find particularly delightful about That Was Then, This Is Now is how it highlights his virtuoso guitar abilities (back in the day Rex won the “Heaven’s Metal Magazine Guitar Hero Award” several times over).  Read Full Review >>

DANIEL BAND - On Rock (Retroactive re-issue)
Daniel Band emerged from Toronto, Canada’s extensive early eighties Christian music scene and went on to become a pioneering force in the growing Christian hard rock movement.  The group can trace its history to vocalist/bassist Dan McCabe and guitarist Toni Rossi, who met when the two were playing in separate bands at a local Christian coffee house.  Read Full Review >>

JIMMY HOTZ - Beyond The Crystal Sea (Born Twice re-issue)
Beyond The Crystal Sea is a highly acclaimed work that is considered one of the best examples of early progressive art rock.  Musically, it brings a joining of complex song structures and intricate time changes, classical interludes, numerous instrumental excursions and more than enough melody to draw you in with repeated listen.  Read Full Review >>

INNERWISH - No Turning Back
No Turning Back, the bands spring of 2010 fourth full length album and first on Ulterium Records, brings a melodic power metal sound certain to appeal to fans of Narnia, Rob Rock, Harmony, Majestic Vanguard, Magnitude 9 and Eterna.  Read Full Review >>

KING JAMES - The Fall
It all adds up to the joining of the metal and modern that is The Fall.  Yes, the music here is grungy, sludgy and at times moody but not too a fault; in other words, the bands eighties metal roots are not overridden but allowed to play an every bit as defining role, with King James staying musically relevant in the process.  Read Full Review >>

WISZDOM STONE - Rise
What this Jackson, Wisconsin based “band of Christians” brings to the table is power metal.  Now, at this point I am sure you are asking: What type of power metal?  Well, not speedy Euro-style power metal (think Seventh Avenue) or even epic power metal (such as Theocracy) but rather good old fashioned classic US power metal along the lines of Jacobs Dream, Sacred Warrior or Faith Factor.  Read Full Review >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Studio updates from DARKWATER:
A series of Facebook updates from the Swedish progressive metal group in regards to the progress of its next album:

May 18, 2010
We're almost finished with all the guitars! Magnus (Holmberg) has started recording keyboards, and later this week Simon (Andersson) will start laying down the bass. If all goes well Henrik (Båth) will also start recording vocals during the coming weekend. We're thrilled about the result so far, and we can't wait... to present this album to you! We'll be back soon with more updates!

May 2, 2010
We're currently recording guitars, and things are running pretty smooth! We've been working hard to get a perfect guitar sound, so quite many hours have been put into that as well. We'll be back soon with more updates! Have a great week guys!

April 21, 2010
Drums are now recorded for seven songs, and Tobias (Enbert) is doing a really great job on the tracks! We'll finish the rest of the drum recordings this week, and next week we'll start tracking guitars. Thanks for your support guys!

Note: DARKWATER released its full length debut, Calling The Earth To Witness, in 2007 on Ulterium Records.  The group also includes all four members of the melodic metal band HARMONY.

DARKWATER online: www.facebook.com/darkwaterofficial

DEAD MOONS GREY signs to Soundmass:
Press Release / Soundmass is pleased to announce the signing of DEAD MOONS GREY, the first American band on their roster, for the release of their third album, DMG. From the mountains of Tennessee, DEAD MOONS GREY (DMG) blend metal, rock, blues and the south together into their own brand of Appalachian metal. Full of power, groove and southern angst, the band’s unique sound reflects the life and culture of the region. With regular performances and plans to tour, DMG’s stage antics and showmanship will capture the attention of anyone into the likes of PANTERA, OZZY and DANZIG. Having already made a ripple in their pond, DEAD MOONS GREY is forging ahead, so be on the lookout for “DMG” to drop by the end of the year.

DMG was released earlier this spring and is available at CD Baby and Soundmass.  Previous DEAD MOONS GREY albums include True Appalachian Metal (2007) and Smokey Mountain Way (2008).  Look for a very favorable review in the near future.

DMG track listing:

1. “Visions”
2. “Hazard”
3. “Muther Truth”
4. “Savior”
5. “Epiphany”
6. “Pete”
7. “Knuckles In The Wind”
8. “True Colors”
9. “Let Go”
10. “Cast”

DEAD MOONS GREY online: www.facebook.com/pages/Dead-Moons-Grey

DELIVERANCE - Temporary Insanity - A Salute to Deliverance details revealed:
Press Release / Roxx Records and the Christian Metal Realm are very excited to announce the details on their long in the works and highly anticipated tribute album celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Southern California Christian Thrash legends DELIVERANCE!

Temporary Insanity – A Salute to Deliverance is set for release this August and hosts a variety of artists paying tribute to the band, some current, some past and even some special reunions all came together to lay down tracks for the disc! Included are current and former members of bands such as THE CRUCIFIED, VENGEANCE RISING, DELIVERANCE and HIRAX just to name a few. And special reunions from OIL and ETERNAL DECISION all coming together just to contribute tracks for this project!

Arttie Parker owner of the Christian Metal Realm says “This CD started out in our online forum well over a year ago when some of the bands that frequent the board wanted to do a few tribute songs to ‘D’, then I started talking with Bill over at Roxx Records about it and it morphed in to a full on tribute CD with tons of artists in the mainstream Thrash and Christian Metal scenes all wanting to contribute to this project and give props to DELIVERANCE as you can easily see by looking at the list of bands and artists we have lined up!”

Disco one track listing:

DELIVERANCE - “Flesh & Blood” (A 25th Anniversary Special re-recording)
DELIVERANCE - “In U” ( A 25th Anniversary Special re-recording)
OIL - “Attack” (w/ Ron Rinehart, Blake Nelson, Jason Vanderpal & James ‘JJ’  Jenkins)
APPLEHEAD/FASEDOWN - “Belltown” (w/ Greg Minear, Michael Phillips, Jim Chaffin & Tim Kronyak)
LAMBS AMONG WOLVES - “Greetings Of Death” (w/ Glen Rogers, Daniel Cordova& Roy Z)
STRICKEN - “No Time”
P/C/W - “What A Joke” (Michael Phillips, Jim Chaffin, Scott Waters, Tim Kronyak)
GRAVE ROBBER - “Awake”
GHOSTTEMPLE - “If We Faint Not” (features Josh Kramer of SAINT & members of TEMPLAR)
FAITH FACTOR - “Weapons Of Our Warfare”
WHISPERS FROM HEAVEN - “Anymore”
VENIA - “Desperate Cries”
DAYS OF AFFLICTION - “River Disturbance”
GRAVE FORSAKEN - “Bought By Blood”
ETERNAL DECISION - “Belltown” (Marking the first time the band has recorded since they disbanded)

Disc two track listing:

Deliverance - “Hunger And The Thirst” (Previously Unreleased)
Oil - “Screaming” (w/ Ron Rinehart, Blake Nelson, Jason Vanderpal & James ‘JJ’ Jenkins)
THE SACRIFICED - “Slay The Wicked”
KRIG - “Weapons Of Our Warfare”
CORIOLIS - “What A Joke”
LEPER - “The Call”
UNFORSAKEN - “Stay Of Execution”
CRUCIBLE DIVINE - “Ramming Speed”
WALK ON WATER - “Learn”
INCARNATE - “If You Will”
VISIONS OF REALITY - “Blood Of The Covenant”
SAINT SPIRIT - “Prophets Of Idiocy”
BLOODPAID - “Words To The…”
BI-POLAR ECHO - “The Call”
PASTOR BRAD - “A Space Called You”

And we’re even going to throw in a limited edition Jimmy Brown signature guitar pick, pick # 2 in the series of limited edition signature guitar picks put out through Roxx Records only available to all of those that pre-order.

The CD is just one of several 25th  Anniversary celebration items planned for DELIVERANCE this year, with special 25th Anniversary shows already lined up, playing a festival in Southern California and a possible festival date overseas this fall.  The band will also be putting together some special 25th anniversary commemorative items together this year including a very special limited edition T-Shirt.

Need even some more DELIVERANCE in your life? As well as debuting the tribute CD Temporary Insanity, the Up From The Ashes festival will also be one of your first opportunities to pick up copies of two new releases from Jimmy Brown and DELIVERANCE courtesy of Retroactive Records!!

August will also see the release of the second installment of DELIVERANCE front man Jimmy Brown’s alter ego band JUPITER VI entitled A Message From Home Part 1. Following on the heels of their first underground classic release Back From Mars this second installment is set to take you to the next level of what the underground scene has embraced as a true piece of cult rock history!

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks

NEWS BRIEFS

* The new album from Brazil’s DYNASTY, Warriors Of The King, will be released on Ice Warrior Records/Rock It Up Records this summer.

* ETERNAL SAVIOUR is a talented symphonic power metal band from Brazil: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va9SrlHPIjg

* GUARDIAN cover of “Rockin’ In The Free World”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9aJX1KJwJ8

* IMPELLITTERI is at work on material for its next album, untitled at the time of this writing.  Also, the group plans to put out a different version of Wicked Maiden for the United States in early 2011.

* Sweden’s JERUSALEM uploaded a teaser to its next album: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QW5mOQy65I

* The Cigar Chronicles, the latest from LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE, will be a double CD featuring 14 cover tunes and 12 original songs.  The project is 80% recorded.

* MY DISGRACE is back in the studio working on the follow up to its 2009 debut Rise.  The group is hoping for a release by the end of the year.

* The second CD from Malta based NOMAD SON, Eternal Return, should be out in July.  Look for it to be released on Italy’s Metal On Metal Records.  The band promises a “52 minute slab of powerful head banging doom”.

* A new VISUAL CLIFF album is in the works.  The group is planning to record 8 to 10 tracks, with three to feature ORPHAN PROJECT vocalist Shane Lankford.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Up From The Ashes III announced:
Roxx Productions and Ivan Promotions are proud to present Up From The Ashes III:

Press Release / The year was 1985 and the Metal scene was alive and thriving, with many magazines and fanzines popping up to cover the latest and greatest in the metal scene. Magazines like Metal Edge and Spin would rise to the top in covering the hard rock and metal scene and excel at it for many years. But only one magazine would rise to the occasion of exclusively covering the Christian hard rock and metal scene. One magazine that 25 years later is still alive and thriving today, ‘in a print format’, which is a huge accomplishment, amidst the many ongoing changes in the ways we promote music to the world today!

Join us for one special weekend as we celebrate 25 years of Heaven’s Metal magazine! Two days of heavenly metal from artists that have in the past, and still do today, grace the pages of Heaven’s Metal magazine! But wait, not only will we be celebrating 25 years of Heaven’s Metal magazine, we will also be celebrating several seminal anniversaries from some of the key artists that helped shape the magazine, many of which still continue to grace the pages of the magazine today! 

Featuring performances from DELIVERANCE celebrating the bands 25th Anniversary, BLOODGOOD celebrating the 25th Anniversary of their Metal Missionaries EP, ONCE DEAD celebrating the 20th Anniversary of VENGEANCE RISING’s Once Dead album and a special reunion marking the 25th Anniversary of STEVIE AND THE SAINTS!!!

Not enough for you? How about performances from New Mexico’s very own ULTIMATUM in their only California appearance! How about Indiana’s very own GRAVE ROBBER in their first and only Southern California appearance! Still want more? How about performances from KLANK, FASEDOWN, SOULJOURNERS, TROGLODYTE DAWN, FELLGUARD and I BUILT THE CROSS.

August 28th and 29th at the Vault in Temecula California.  Limited tickets are available for this very special once in a life time event! Join us as we celebrate the Anniversaries of some of the most influential artists in the Christian Metal and Hard Rock Scene and one of the longest running print rock magazines in the industry, Heaven’s Metal!

Roxx Records update:
Upcoming releases from Roxx Productions:

PASTOR BRAD - Break Out with Limited Edition bonus disc is shipping next week! We still have a few bonus discs left of the 100! If you get your order in now it will go out next week!!

PASTOR BRAD online: http://pastorbradrocks.com & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks

CRYSTAVOX - The Twenty Year Mix is slated for a June Release.  The bonus disc versions are ALMOST gone! Get one now before they vanish! The new “Where Are They Now” DVD is KILLER (More on that under Roxx Tube)

THE SACRIFICED - 2012 is an amazing brand new release slated for July.  The bonus discs are almost gone as well! The bonus disc includes a completely re-mastered version of The Da Vinci Hoax (the bands full length debut from 2007) and some RARE demos from SCEPTER and SEALED FATE (pre THE SACRIFICED bands).

THE SACRIFICED online: www.facebook.com/thesacrificed

THE MOSHKETEERS - The Downward Spiral is moving quickly with the bonus discs for Vacation From Hell being almost gone! This one will be coming down for presale in the next 2 or 3 weeks so if you want the bonus disc get it now!

MOSHKETEERS online: www.facebook.com/Moshketeers

DELIVERANCE - Temporary Insanity: A 25th Anniversary Salute To Deliverance. Watch for the full press release coming soon but this will be making it’s debut at UFTAIII!!!

DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

AUDIOVISION - "Keep The Fire Burning" video online:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band AUDIOVISION have released their video for the track "Keep The Fire Burning". The track comes off their brand new album Focus, which was released in Europe and North America on April 23rd through Ulterium Records.
 
The video was directed by Ronny Hemlin (Scar Symmetry, Steel Attack), who also directed the first video from the album, “Invitation”.

Focus is a high quality melodic metal release influenced by bands like WHITESNAKE, DIO, RAINBOW, EUROPE, GOTTHARD and STRYPER. Fans of the genre will not be disappointed!

AUDIOVISION line up:

Christian Liljegren (DIVINEFIRE, ex-NARNIA) - Vocals
Simeon Liljegren (Ex-MODEST ATTRACTION) - Bass
Torbjörn Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE) - Guitars
Thomas Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE) - Drums
Olov Andersson (GRAND STAND) - Keyboards

Focus track listing:

1. “Invitation”
2. “Keep The Fire Burning”
3. “We Are Not Alone”
4. “The Son Will Come”
5. “You Are The Reason”
6. “Fruit Of Love”
7. “We Will Go”
8. “I Will Belong To You”
9. “The Way”
10. “The Gate”
11. “Focus”

Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

AUDIOVISION online: www.facebook.com/pages/AUDIOVISION

 

INTERVIEWS

Angelic Warlord interview - Jimmy Arceneaux & Marc Allyn of SOLDIER:
Such a statement begs for the following questions to be answered: Why didn’t Soldier get signed? And how close did Soldier come to getting signed?  These questions (and others) were answered in a recent online discussion Angelic Warlord had with Jimmy Arceneaux and Marc Allyn, who provide their insight in regards to the matter:  Read Full Interview >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Retroactive Records update:
Upcoming releases from Retroactive Records:

ADIASTASIA - Life War (Collector's Edition) (Bombworks) - Re-mastered & remixed version of the 2006 release - New artwork - Digipak format- Amazing progressive metal from Brazil- New CD anticipated by the of the year (possibly)

KING JAMES - The Fall (Collector's Edition) (RAR8998 - Retroactive Records) - Re-mastered - New artwork - Special liner notes from guitarist Rex Carroll (Whitecross) – July 2010

KING JAMES online: www.facebook.com/kingjamesband

MESSIAH - Final Warning (Collector’s Edition) (RAR7901 - Retroactive Records) – First time released on CD – Re-mastered – Special liner notes – Vinyl versions have gone for as high as $1000+ - July 2010

MESSIAH - Going Insane (COLLECTOR'S EDITION) (RAR7902 - Retroactive Records) Holy Grail of Christian metal collectibles - Band manager gave each member 10 copies and took the rest himself when the band broke up - Vinyl is impossible to find - Re-mastered – Special liner notes - 3 never before released songs recorded during the late 70's ("Lucifer", "Better Say A Prayer" and an early version of "Final Warning") – July 2010 
 
MESSIAH - Cloudborne Sessions (RAR7903 Retroactive Records) - MESSIAH was recording this album when it broke up- Sixty minutes of never before released material from the album that never happened - September 2010

REX CARROLL BAND - That Was Then… This Is Now (RAR7899 - Retroactive Records) All new heavy blues record by Rex Carroll (Whitecross) - SUPERB stuff ala Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Glenn Hughes, Glenn Kaiser Band & Stevie & The Saints - July 2010

Rex Carroll online: www.facebook.com/rexcarrollband

REX CARROLL & THE BLEED - Take Back A Life (Collector's Edition) (RAR7900 - Retroactive Records) - Rex Carroll and Tim Bushong (LOVEWAR) released a heavy rock album in the vein of LOVEWAR/KING’S X, ALICE IN CHAINS, SOUND GARDEN in 1997 on Rugged Records (originally called Ouch!) - Re-mastered - New artwork & new title - Special liner notes from Rex Carroll - October 2010

Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html

Born Twice Records update:
Born Twice Records is a sister label of Retroactive Records that features reissues of classic Jesus Music and Jesus Music artists from the 70's and early 80's. Following are upcoming releases on Born Twice:

VISION - Mountain In The Sky (COLLECTOR'S EDITION) (BTW 7778 - Born twice Records) - 1984 custom release featuring Leon Wilkeson and Billy Powell from Lynyrd Skynyrd!! – July 2010

VISION - Self-Titled (COLLECTOR'S EDITION) (RAR7779 Born Twice Records) – 1985 release originally put out by Heartland Records – July 2010

VISION - Street Fighter (BTR7780 Born Twice Records) – Unreleased third album – Never saw the light of day due to red tape/legal squabbles from the Benson Company – Killer classic rock – October 2010

JIMMY HOTZ - Beyond The Crystal Sea (COLLECTOR'S EDITION) (BTR7777 - Born Twice Records) – First released in 1980 – Re-mastered - Liner notes from Ken Scott (Archivist) – Progressive Art Rock masterpiece – features guest appearance by Kemper Crabb (ArkAngel) – July 2010

Jimmy Hotz online: www.jimmyhotz.com

EXKURSIONS - Self-Titled (COLLECTOR'S EDITION) (BTR7781 - Born Twice Records) - Bluesy psych masterpiece from 1971 - ala HENDRIX – September 2010

Born Twice Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/born-twice-records.html

NEWS BRIEFS

* The new TESTIFY CD, Pushing Back Darkness, will be released on July 3, 2010 at the Cornerstone Festival.  The album will debut new vocalist Lynn Louise Lowrey, who is also the bass player of VIXEN.

* DELIVERANCE is close to completing work on its next album, Annals Of Subterfuge.  Look for it to be released on Retroactive Records.

 

INTERVIEWS

Angelic Warlord interview - Christian Liljegren of AUDIOVISION:

Focus, the soon to be released second CD from Audiovision, comes across as more of a band effort than a project.  Is this an accurate statement?  Also, what led you to work with Torbjorn and Thomas Weinesjo (guitars & drums), Olov Andersson (keyboards) and your brother Simeon (bass)?
I really needed a big break from touring and recording to get the passion back to make music when I left NARNIA in 2008. When my break was over, I wanted to form a fresh NEW touring and recording band with the influences from 70's and 80's hard rock and metal. To use the AUDIOVISION name felt natural as I wanted to perform songs from THE CALLING album live and I loved the name.  Read Full Interview >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Liljegren-Records update:
The most recent news from the label of AUDIOVISION vocalist Christian Liljegren:

REINXEED: The third REINXEED album, Majestic, was released in Japan on March 27, 2010 through King Records.  It scored 88 points out of 100 in Burrn! Magazine Japan.  The album is scheduled for release in Europe and USA in September of 2010.

7 DAYS: Into Forever, the sophomore album from 7 DAYS, is in the final stages of completion and set for a September 2010 release.  The band is led by guitarist Markus Sigfridsson of DARKWATER and HARMONY.  The first 7DAYS album, The Weight Of The World, was released worldwide to great acclaim from critics and fans alike.

The following musicians performed on Into Forever:

Markus Sigfridsson - Guitars, keyboards and programming
Daniel Flores - Drums (THE MURDER OF MY SWEET)
Andreas Passmark - Bass (ROYAL HUNT, NARNIA, DIVINEFIRE)
Kaspar Dahlqvist - Keyboard solos (DIONYSOS)
Thomas Vikström - Lead and backing vocals (THERION, CANDLEMASS, MEHIDA)
Caroline Sigfridsson - Lead vocals
Christian Liljegren - Lead vocals (AUDIOVISION, DIVINEFIRE)
Erik Tordsson - Lead and backing vocals

7 Days online: www.sigfridsson.net/7days

AUDIOVISION: The new AUDIOVISION album, FOCUS, was released through Ulterium Records on April 23, 2010.  A successful tour of Sweden and Germany with STRYPER was completed in January of this year.  The first single, “Invitation”, was released on video on YouTube on April 8, 2010.  A tour to be called “Keep The Fire Burning Tour” is scheduled for 2010 and 2011. 

AUDIOVISION online: www.facebook.com/pages/AUDIOVISION

GOLDEN RESURRECTION: GOLDEN RESURRECTION is a great new band led by vocalist Christian Liljegren (AUDIOVISION, DIVINEFIRE, NARNIA) and guitarist TOMMY JOHANSSON (ReinXeed).  The band brings a powerful and melodic brand of neoclassical metal certain to appeal to fans of the first two NARNIA albums, Awakening and Long Live The King.  The album is set to be recorded this summer.  Further details to come.

GOLDEN RESURRECTION online: www.golden-resurrection.com & www.facebook.com/goldenresurrection

DIVINEFIRE: The 5th studio album from DIVINEFIRE will be recorded during September and should be released in late 2010 or early 2011 in Japan.  Bassist Andreas Passmark has left the band and been replaced by Hubertus Liljegren (CRIMSON MOONLIGHT).  Hubertus, young brother of Christian Liljegren, will also be helping out on vocals.  The band is excited to be going back to the sound of Glory Thy Name and Into A New Dimension.  Jani Stefanovic will co-produce the album along with Christian.

DIVINEFIRE online: http://divinefire.net & www.facebook.com/pages/Divinefire

Liljegren Records online: www.doolittle.se/om-doolittle-group/liljegren-records

Ulterium Records update:
The latest from the Sweden based label:

AUDIOVISION: Today (April 23, 2010) marks the release of the second AUDIOVISION album, Focus, in Europe and North America!  It's also available through the Ulterium Records Store, so go pick up a copy if you haven't!  In a few weeks we'll also release the second video from the album, of the track "Keep The Fire Burning".

AUDIOVISION online: www.facebook.com/pages/AUDIOVISION

DARKWATER: Is currently recording their second album!  Mixing is scheduled for the summer and will be handled by Fredrik Nordström (IN FLAMES, AT THE GATES, HAMMERFALL).  Look for a release during the fall.

DARKWATER online: www.facebook.com/darkwaterofficial

SINBREED: The debut album When Worlds Collide has been released in Europe, North America and Japan- and the response has been really great!  In the last issue of Rock Hard Germany When Worlds Collide received 8/10 and reached spot nr.12/60 in the Soundcheck!

SINBREED online: www.sinbreed.com & www.facebook.com/Sinbreed

INNERWISH: The new album No turning Back will be released May 28th!  The band is confirmed for the Brainstorm Festival in Holland for the fall, and also more touring is in the works.  During May we'll release a video for the track "Burning Desires" off the album, directed by Bob Katsionis (FIREWIND).

INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/pages/InnerWish

THEOCRACY: Is working on their third album, which we hope to release during 2010!  On April 30th the band will support SONATA ARCTICA at the Masquerade in Atlanta, GA.

THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband

Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

 

INTERVIEWS

Angelic Warlord interview - Sidney Allen Johnson of BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA:

BMO just released its new album, The Godless, the Godforsaken & the God Damned. How does GGFGD compare musically to past BMO releases?
I have been telling people that The Godless, The Godforsaken and the God Damned is my Rock and Roll Over where Axis Of Evil was my Destroyer. I never run out of KISS references. I feel as though Axis Of Evil will probably be regarded as the definitive Babylon Mystery Orchestra record. I like everything about how that record was done. As a conceptual work, it achieved everything I had been trying to do from the beginning of BMO. Read Full Interview >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

New DARKWATER album in the works:
Press Release / The Swedish progressive metal band DARKWATER will start recording their second album next week. Joining them on the album is Simon Andersson (ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) on bass. The yet untitled album will be mixed this summer by Fredrik Nordström (AT THE GATES, IN FLAMES, DIMMU BORGIR) at Studio Fredman, and is planned for a fall 2010 release through Ulterium Records.

Henrik Båth of DARKWATER comments: "We're thrilled and eager to head into the studio and record our second album. Our debut album was received so much better than we could have hoped for, but still we feel that we can top it. We've got some great material ready to be recorded, and with the addition of Simon Andersson on bass as well as Fredrik Nordström for the mixing of the album everything feels right. We're definitely ready to take everything to the next level with this release."

The debut album from DARKWATER, Calling The Earth To Witness, was released in 2007 and received excellent feedback from around the world, and among other things resulted in a show at the Bay Area Rock Festival in San Francisco, CA together with LIQUID TENSION EXPERIMENT in 2008.

DARKWATER online: www.facebook.com/darkwaterofficial

NARNIA calls it quits:
As recently announced by the group:

“Some of you may have heard rumors, and some of you may be surprised by what you're about to read. We confirm today that we're facing the end of the journey of this band. We want to thank all our fans, friends and our families who stood behind us all the time. Thank you for believing.

"The decision was made around (late 2009/early 2010). It's time to move on. Music business is tough, and it's getting tougher every day. But it's also the greatest business to be in thanks to the crowds and the people we've met along this long road. Thank you for sharing your stories and for letting our music and message be a part of your lives.

"Last summer after a concert a guy around the age of 20-25 walked up to me, thanked me for the show and said "I listened a lot to you guys when I was a kid". (...and I thought WE were still kids...hey, wake up).

"To celebrate this long journey we will do ONE more concert that will serve as the Grand Finale of NARNIA.

"The event has been chosen with great care and we hope to announce this.....soon ;)

"Stay tuned, God bless...over and out. CJ Grimmark."

NARNIA online: www.narniatheband.com & www.facebook.com/narniatheband

NEWS BRIEFS

* Guitarist Chris Matusieski and bassist Joe Manghan have departed FAITH FACTOR.  The group is currently holding auditions for replacement members.

* Sweden’s REINXEED is looking to release its third album, Majestic, in August.

* X-SINNER is slated to begin tracking its next album, tentatively entitled Sinner’s Extreme, in the fall.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

AUDIOVISION - "Invitation" video online:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band AUDIOVISION have released their video for the track "Invitation". The track comes off their up-coming album Focus, which will be released in Europe and North America on April 23rd through Ulterium Records.

The video is directed by Ronny Hemlin (SCAR SYMMETRY, STEEL ATTACK).

Focus is a high quality melodic metal release influenced by bands like WHITESNAKE, DIO, RAINBOW, EUROPE, GOTTHARD and STRYPER. Fans of the genre will not be disappointed!

AUDIOVISION line up:

Christian Liljegren (DIVINEFIRE, ex-NARNIA) - Vocals
Simeon Liljegren (Ex-MODEST ATTRACTION) - Bass
Torbjörn Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE) - Guitars
Thomas Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE) - Drums
Olov Andersson (GRAND STAND) - Keyboards

Focus track listing:

1. “Invitation”
2. “Keep The Fire Burning”
3. “We Are Not Alone”
4. “The Son Will Come”
5. “You Are The Reason”
6. “Fruit Of Love”
7. “We Will Go”
8. “I Will Belong To You”
9. “The Way”
10. “The Gate”
11. “Focus”

Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

AUDIOVISION online: www.facebook.com/pages/AUDIOVISION

Unrest In The Midwest Festival announced:
Tickets are now available for the Keokuk, Iowa based festival:

Press Release / Bombworks Records is sponsoring the first year of this Pre-Cornerstone Festival that includes bands on labels such as Bombworks, Retroactive, Increase Decrease, Open Grave, and Grrr!!!

12 Bands - 12 Hours - $10 on Saturday June 26th, 2010! 

REX CARROLL & THE HEAL, MAIN LINE RIDERS, GRAVE ROBBER, BOARDERS, KIDNAM THE SUN, A HILL TO DIE UPON, LEPER, DAGON, I BUILT THE CROSS, COPERNICUS, SKIES & DIVULGENCE!

It's just a little over an hour from Cornerstone Festival! 

Bands playing at Unrest In The Midwest Festival:

A HILL TO DIE UPON - extreme metal
DIVULGENCE - extreme metal
I BUILT THE CROSS - extreme metal
DAGON - extreme metal
REX CARROLL & THE HEAL - hard rock and metal
MAIN LINE RIDERS - classic rock in the vein of AC/DC
GRAVE ROBBER - punk/metal
BOARDERS - former Megadeth tribute band/metal
KIDKNAP THE SUN - modern rock
LEPER - gothic/industrial rock
SKIES - extreme metal
COPERNICUS - extreme metal

Note: Bands playing are subject to change.

Also, RadRockers will have a vendor booth. RadRockers has been selling rare and hard to find CDs for 25 years!

Please help us to make this show a smashing success by helping us spread the word about these amazing bands in one place at one affordable price! 

BOMBWORKS Records online: www.bombworksrecords.com

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

 

ORACLE - Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology details revealed:
Press Release / Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology is the first ever comprehensive release of North Carolina heavy metal band, ORACLE. Featuring a then youthful Shawn Pelata on vocals (current member of LINE OF FIRE), the band existed between the years 1990-1993 and released two demos and a critically acclaimed EP entitled Selah.

There have been previous issues of Selah released almost half heartedly, but Divebomb Records decided to finally put together an issue of ORACLE material worthy of collector’s expectations. Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology features 17 tracks from ORACLE’s entire history plus a brand new interview with Shawn Pelata as well as a new introduction by long time fan and columnist, Olaf Becker (Turn Or Burn magazine).

For the collectors we were able to unearth an alternate vocal version of their original demo cassette, plus the super rare 2 track demo featuring the band after Shawn’s departure. So this is it, for the fans a true anthology of a great North Carolina metal band ORACLE.

Look for Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology to be released on May 11, 2010.

For fans of: METAL CHURCH, BARREN CROSS and SANCTUARY

Selling Points:

- First proper reissue of ORACLE discography
- Features Shawn Pelata on vocals (LINE OF FIRE, KILLWHITNEYDEAD)
- Features new interview with Shawn Pelata in 2010
- Band is highly revered in Christian Metal circles and beyond
- Contains rare alternate vocal version of original demo cassette
- New re-master by Jamie King in 2010

Track listing:

Selah (1993)

1. “Passage Denied”
2. “Harlots Destiny”
3. “Witches & Warlocks”
4. “The Purging Fire”
5. “Desolate Kings”
6. “Legion”
7. “Rebecca”

Demo (1990)

8. “Look Away”
9. “Willful Death”
10. “Desolate Kings”
11. “The Spirit Of Egypt”

Demo (1992)

12. “Wolves Of The Cloth”
13. “Apathy's Slumber”

Demo (1990) (alternate version)

14. “Look Away”
15. “Willful Death”
16. “Desolate Kings”
17. “The Spirit Of Egypt”

DIVEBOMB Records online: www.divebombrecords.com/site

PASTOR BRAD ready to Break Out:
Press Release / Roxx Records is very proud to announce the Spring release of PASTOR BRAD’s Break Out! After 5 independent instrumental shred albums, PASTOR BRAD is back with his fourth full-length vocal album and his first on Roxx Records! While the old-school guitar shred influences are still here, this album will hit you square in the face with some of the heaviest sounding riffs ever recorded on any PASTOR BRAD album!

What started out as a true solo CD turned in to a very special release with tons of special guest artists!

Break Out track listing (with corresponding guest lead vocalist):

1. “Break Out” (Rachel Anne of IRON MAJESTY)
2. “In Your Loving Arms”
3. “Turn Up The Light” (Ken Tamplin)
4. “Cold Blooded Killer” (Norman “Ski’ Kiersznowski of FAITH FACTOR)
5. “We Win” (Chaz Bond of JACOBS DREAM)
6. “I Live” (Luke Weber of PASTOR BRAD BAND)
7. “He Loves Me” (Les Carlson of BLOODGOOD)
8. “Gethsemane (Rachel Anne of IRON MAJESTY)
9. “Edge Of Midnight”
10. “Beating The Flesh” (Richie Z of BLIND SEVEN)
11. “Treasure Life”
12. “Choose To Love” (Richie Z of BLIND SEVEN)
13. “Tentacles Of Love” (Jim Griffin of GRIFFIN X)
14. “I Wanna Be” (Dave Merriwether of STRICKEN)

As an added bonus, the first 100 pre-orders of this special release will come with a bonus disc entitled Best Of The Rest, a bonus disc of rarities, unreleased tracks and also some of the above Break Out tracks featuring PASTOR BRAD handling all the vocals! (they were just too good not to put out)

So if you’re a PASTOR BRAD fan you will definitely want to get in on the pre-order for this one!

This debut Roxx Release is set to hit the streets on April 27, 2010 and will be available everywhere!

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

PASTOR BRAD online: http://pastorbradrocks.com & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks

NEWS BRIEFS

* Louisville, Kentucky based BRIDE are planning one final “Encore” CD.  The following was sent by the group in a recent e-mail update: “BRIDE has been overwhelmed with emails, letters and well wishes. Because of the reaction to our retirement Troy and I are planning an "Encore" CD. We will record 10 more songs this summer for those that have prayed for us, supported and encouraged us throughout the years. We hope to send you guys more information as the project develops.”

 

FEATURED REVIEWS

BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA - The Godless, The Godforsaken & the God Damned
BMO returns with its fifth full length album in early 2010, The Godless, The Godforsaken & the God Damned.  No, not another concept release, but the album does reflect the artist’s penchant for political incorrectness and controversial lyrical themes.  Read Full Review >>

FINAL AXE - Beyond Hell’s Gate (Retroactive re-issue)
Musically, Final Axe can best be described as powerful heavy metal with the occasional leaning towards the melodic side of things.  If anything, BHG is my favorite of the four Menchen and Miles collaborations, although I might rank it a notch below Bill Menchen’s post The Seventh Power material such as the third Titanic album (Full Steam Ahead) and his all star project Menchen.  Read Full Review >>

SHADOW GALLERY - Digital Ghosts
Shadow Gallery has always impressed as being progressive but song orientated at the same time.  Digital Ghosts traverses similar musical territory - the bands trademark melodies are still present (as can be found on “Gold Dust”) – but with a bit more emphasis placed on the progressive this time around.  Read Full Review >

SHOUT - It Won’t Be Long
It Won’t Be Long, Shout’s 1988 Frontline Records debut, is a sleekly produced work combining the best aspects of melodic metal and commercial hard rock with pop-rock sensibilities.  Read Full Review >>

SHOUT - In Your Face
As aptly entitled work as you will find, In Your Face features the greater guitar driven proclivity and backs it with catchier choruses and more notable melodies to create one of the finer Christian melodic metal albums of the eighties.  Read Full Review >>

SINBREED - When Worlds Collide
What we have in Sinbreed is European power metal delivering equal parts speed, melody and aggression.  While drawing upon the influence of its member’s bands (including Seventh Avenue and Blind Guardian), Sinbreed will be certain to appeal to those into Helloween, Theocracy, Narnia, Sacred Warrior, Rhapsody, ReinXeed and a host of others within the same genre.  Read Full Review >>

TITANIC - Maiden Voyage (Retroactive re-issue)
Ever give an album you did not initially like a second chance and ended up pleasantly surprised?  That would be the best way to describe the “love-hate” relationship I have had with Titanic’s full length debut Maiden Voyage.  Read Full Review >>

TITANIC - Screaming In Silence (Retroactive re-issue)
Titanic’s sophomore release Screaming In Silence, similar to fine wine, keeps getting better with age.  All platitudes aside, the album, initially coming out on Retroactive Records in 2002, treaded the waters of traditional heavy metal, a direction similar to that taken on the group’s 1996 debut Maiden Voyage.  Read Full Review >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

LEGACY re-issue on Eonian Records:
Press Release / Christian metal: The merging of the messianic message with loud, raucous, rowdy rock ‘n’ roll.  To some, this sounds oxymoronic, the mismatched mixing of the sacred with the profane.  But to the born-again mousse-abuse mavericks in Legacy–Matt Rice (guitars), John Rice (bass), John Jenkins (drums), Fred Blanchard (guitars), and Doug Meacham (vocals) – it sounded like a match made in, well, heaven.

The band’s creation began on September 17, 1987, in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Eric Adams, a youth minister, felt called to build and manage a band that could not only rock your face off, but share the love of God while doing so. With John Rice, Matt Rice, and Matt Reedy already on board, Eric reached out to Fred Blanchard, the younger brother of a friend of his, wondering if he knew of any singers seeking work. As divine providence would have it, Fred’s band had just broken up that day, so he and Doug Meacham were both available to join.

Undecided on a name, the band fluctuated between Xristas, Threshold, and Cross as they strived to learn the songs and mesh their individual talents into one smooth, all-cylinders-cranking metal machine. But before they actually played any gigs, Matt Reedy left the fold and Blanchard enlisted his friend John Jenkins as a replacement. With this infusion of fresh blood also came a new band name: LEGACY.

Legacy made no bones about being a Christian metal band. While the music was important, a sizzling salvo of heavy guitars, thunderous rhythms, melodic hooks, and layered harmonies, the band placed equal, if not more, importance on their message, ensuring their lyrics cleaved true to who they were as men of faith.

Claiming Columbus, Ohio as their home and citing bands like STRYPER, DOKKEN and SCORPIANS as influences, LEGACY launched themselves into the live circuit, playing their first show at Tree of Life Christian School where Fred was still a senior. But the band did not limit themselves to Christian audiences; instead, they took to heart Jesus’ command to take His message into the world and invaded secular venues on a regular basis. One of their biggest accomplishments was winning the Battle of the Bands at the renowned heavy metal club Alrosa Villa in the winter of ‘89, becoming the first white-metal band to ever take the crown in that head-banging competition.

Look for Eonian Records to re-issue the back catalog of LEGACY, including the group’s demo material and tracks it placed on the compilation albums Heavy Righteous Metal Chapter II (“Cross The Line”) and Brave New Music (“What A World”).  A release date of April 20, 2010 is planned.

Legacy track listing:

1. “Kingdom’s Arise”
2. “It’s Real”
3. “Cross The Line”
4. “Forever In Your Arms”
5. “Don’t Run Away”
6. “Change Of A Broken Heart”
7. “Comin’ Along”
8. “Soldiers Unite”
9. “One Way Or The Other”
10. “Live It”
11. “Vision Of Perfection”
12. “What A World”

Eonian Records online: http://eonianrecords.com

STAIRWAY - Interregnum details & track listing:
Press Release / The new STAIRWAY album, Interregnum, is available as a pre-order through March 31, 2010.  You can pre-order the CD ($11.00) and vinyl ($14.99) at: http://homepage.virgin.net/stairway.deoduce/deoduce.htm

The vinyl is a special edition colored vinyl version with a different back cover design (when compared) to the CD and is limited to only 300 copies.  So if you want a copy of this special once only edition (then) order now, since once they are sold out there won’t be a re-pressing.

All albums ordered through the pre-order line come with FREE shipping and will be personally signed by the band.  After March 31st you can still order the album but they won’t be signed and the price will increase.

Orders will be sent out on, or just after, the release date of 5th April 2010.

STAIRWAY debuted in the early nineties on the White Metal Warriors – Last Ship Home compilation.  Since then has released four albums, including No Rest – No Mercy (1993), Bleeding Heart (1999), On Hallowed Ground (2002) and The Other Side Of Midnight (2006).

Interregnum track listing:

1. “The Suffering Servant”
2. “In The Shadow Of The Cross”
3. “I’m Calling”
4. “Born To Die”
5. “Ride The Wind”
6. “New Life”
7. “Enter The Light”
8. “Fear & Lies”
9. “What Lies Within”
10. “The Battle’s Over”
11. “Born To Die - Epilogue”

STAIRWAY online: www.stairwayonline.co.uk & www.facebook.com/stairwaytheband

NEWS BRIEFS

* You can read about the greatest Christian albums of all time at: http://greatestchristianalbums.wordpress.com

* Grammy-nominated producer Eric Zimmerman is currently mastering the new IMAGES OF EDEN CD, Rebuilding The Ruins.  Eric has previously worked with FATES WARNING, LIMP BIZKIT, JASON BECKER, SUIDIDAL TENDENCIES, BUCKCHEERY & DEFTONES.

* Final Warning (1984) and Going Insane (1985), classic albums from the eighties metal band MESSIAH, are set to be re-issued by Retroactive Records.  Look for both to be re-mastered and feature the original artwork.  Three bonus tracks will also be included along with ten songs from the third album that was never released.  Expect a release date by June of this year. 

* SAINT recently recorded videos of the tracks “The Blade” and “New World Order”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCAO7FzqZew & www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tD8oX8uXE0

Both are taken off the groups 2010 release Hell Blade on Retroactive Records.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

INNERWISH signs with Ulterium Records:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are very proud to announce the signing of the Greek melodic power metal band INNERWISH.  The bands new album No Turning Back will be released May 28th in Europe and North America.  

The mixing of the album was done by Fredrik Nordström (IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL, DIMMU BORGIR) at Studio Fredman, and mastering was handled by Mika Jussila (NIGHTWISH, CHILDREN OF BODOM, STRATOVARIUS) at Finnvox Studios.
 
No Turning Back track listing:
 
1. “The Signs Of Our Lives”
2. “Chosen One”
3. “Burning Desires”
4. “No Turning Back”
5. “Sirens”
6. “Save Us”
7. “Last Breath”
8. “Lawmaker”
9. “Welcome To My World”
10. “Kingdom Of Our Prime”
11. “Full Of Lust”
12. “Live For My Own”

Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

INNERWISH online: www.innerwish.gr & www.facebook.com/pages/InnerWish

THE SACRIFICED announce 2012 track listing & first single:
Press Release / The SACRIFCED are reporting from the studio that they are nearing completion of their newest release and full concept album entitled 2012.  Roxx Records is pleased to announce the full details of the release with an official release date set for June 22, 2010 and the entire track listing available below.

2012 track listing:

1. “System Failure (Intro)”
2. “2012”
3. “Freedom”
4. “No Promise Of Tomorrow”
5. “The Return”
6. “The Path To Righteousness”
7. “In Heaven”
8. “I Concede”
9. “Victorious”
10. “Father
11. “Saved”
12. “Love & Hope”
13. “Believe”
14. “Slay The Wicked”
15. “Time”

In addition to the full length release, the first 100 pre-orders will receive a bonus disc entitled The Da Vinci Hoax & Beyond. The bonus disc features a re-mastered version of their entire debut disc The Da Vinci Hoax as well as some extremely rare and previously unreleased demos from some early incarnations of THE SACRIFICED known as SEALED FATE and SCEPTRE.

The Da Vinci Hoax & Beyond track listing:

1. “Footsteps (Intro)”
2. “The Fight”
3. “Newslflash”
4. “The Da Vinci Hoax”
5. “The Beginning”
6. “Altar Call”
7. “Ghosts Of Iniquity”
8. “In Vain”
9. “Forgiven”
10. “Reflections”
11. “In Your Name We Pray”
12. “To Hell And Back (Sealed Fate)”
13. “Heaven (Sealed Fate)”
14. “The Time Has Come (Sealed Fate)”
15. “Satan’s Doom (Sealed Fate)”
16. “Golgotha (Sceptre)”
17. “Lost is the Dreamer (Sceptre)”
18. “Mirrored Fate (Sceptre)”

2012 is not your normal concept album and is sure to turn a few heads, but THE SACRIFICED is not afraid to speak their minds and share their hearts.  So this summer be prepared to hear the truth and be ready for THE SACRIFICED to scare the Hell out of you- and we do mean that literally!

In April the first single off of 2012 entitled “No Promise Of Tomorrow” will be serviced to radio.  If you’re not one of our affiliates and you’re interested in carrying the single, send us a quick email to: info@roxxproductions.com

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

THE SACRIFICED online: www.facebook.com/thesacrificed

SINBREED - "Dust To Dust" video online:
Press Release / The German power metal band SINBREED released their video for the track "Dust to Dust".  The song comes off their debut album When Worlds Collide, which will be released in Japan March 24th, Europe March 26th and in North America April 6th.

SINBREED is the project OF 27 year old Guitarist Flo Laurin, who has joined forces with vocalist Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE) and drummer Frederik Ehmke (BLIND GUARDIAN) to create the distinctive power metal that is SINBREED: a blistering combination of speed, melodic and aggressive arrangements and soaring vocals.

SINBREED line up:

Herbie Langhans - Vocals
Flo Laurin - Guitars & Keyboards
Alexander Schulz - Bass
Frederik Ehmke - Drums

When Worlds Collide track listing:

1. “Newborn Tomorrow”
2. “Book Of Life”
3. “When Worlds Collide”
4. “Dust To Dust”
5. “Infinity's Call”
6. “Through The Dark”
7. “Enemy Lines”
8. “Room 101”
9. “Arise”
10. “Salvation”

When Worlds Collide was mixed and mastered by Markus Teske (SYMPHONY X, VANDEN PLAS) and artwork created by Felipe Machado Franco (ICED EARTH, AYREON). The album features guest appearances by Thomas Rettke [REDKEY, HEAVEN’S GATE) Joost van den Broek (AYREON, STAR ONE) and Morten Sandager (PRETTY MAIDS).

SINBREED online: www.sinbreed.com & www.facebook.com/Sinbreed

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

REX CARROLL signs with Retroactive Records:
Press Release / Retroactive Records have had the pleasure of working with the finest musicians and bands in the history of Christian music: DELIVERANCE, BRIDE, DANIEL BAND, REZ and SWEET COMFORT BAND to name a few.  God continues to bless us - as we have just signed the following bands for future releases:

REX CARROLL BAND - That Was Then… This Is Now (Heavy blues rock - June 2010)

KING JAMES - The Fall (Re-mastered, new artwork, featuring Rex Carroll - June 2010)

REX CARROLL & THE BLEED - Take Back A Life (Re-mastered, new artwork.  Originally released in 1997 under the title Ouch!  Featuring Tim Bushong (LOVEWAR) on vocals.  Excellent bluesy hard rock with amazing vocals and harmonies! Oct 2010).

In addition, look for all new albums from WHITECROSS and KING JAMES sometimes down the road.

Retroactive Records and our staff are so extremely blessed to work with such talented and dedicated artists.  Getting a chance to work with Rex Carroll and promote his various bands is truly an honor!  And we look forward to 2010 being a HUGE year for us, for Rex and company, and most importantly - THE FANS! THANK YOU for all your encouragement and support!

Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html

Rex Carroll online: www.facebook.com/rexcarrollband

New PLACE OF SKULLS album, As A Dog Returns:
The latest from the Tennessee based doom-metal outfit:

Press Release / The new album is almost finished.  Recording was completed a couple of weeks ago.  We're still putting the final touches on production and then mastering.  The name of the fourth coming full length album is As A Dog Returns.

As A Dog Returns track listing:

”Timeless Hearts”
“Breath Of Life”
“Though He Slay Me”
“Psalm”
“Dayspring”
'He's God”
“The Maker”
“Desperation”
“As A Dog Returns”

Total running time is approximately 55 minutes.  Artwork is underway at Evolution Printing & Design in Manassas, VA.  Release dates, label news, distributors and touring announcements coming soon."

PLACE OF SKULLS was founded in the mid-nineties by former PENTAGRAM guitarist Victor Griffin.  The bands first two albums, Nailed (2002) and With Vision (2003), and EP Love Through Blood (2005) were reflective of Griffin’s faith.  PLACE OF SKULLS released its most recent work, The Black Is Never Far, in 2006.

PLACE OF SKULLS online: www.placeofskulls.com & www.facebook.com/pages/Place-of-Skulls

TEMPLE OF BLOOD announces sophomore release, A Show Of Force:
The latest from vocalist/guitarist Jim Mullis:

"So we are writing album #3 and working in the new players for the 2010 TEMPLE OF BLOOD line-up. Things are going well so far and the new musicians are excellent!

"I'd like to welcome Robert Willingham (MILITIA) on bass guitar and Harry Coleman on second guitar. Robert is of course from the incredible Texas Power Thrash Metal merchants MILITIA, who put out Released and are working on a brand new album that I am definitely looking forward to! Now I knew MILITIA was a very cool band but I am a bit surprised how quickly he has picked up my tunes and been able to nail them! Really looking forward to working more with Robert. Harry Coleman is someone that I knew from our 60s/70s/80s/90s cover band that we play in together and I knew he was a master shredder! I really appreciate his offer to help us out with this new album and I think you guys will be really impressed with his playing because I know I am!

"The new album is called A Show of Force and we are working on finishing up a 2 song demo to shop to labels. In the meantime we will be completing the rest of the songwriting for album #3. I've really been ramping up the intensity on these new songs and we've added blast beats to our sound for extra pummeling “thrashitude”. We hope to bring you a power metal “thrashterpiece” that you all will enjoy listening to again and again.

"Release date will be whenever it all gets done, which of course depends on if we get signed or not. Thanks to everyone for your support!"

TEMPLE OF BLOOD is an Alabama based melodic speed metal/thrash band that debuted in 2005 with the full length release Prepare For The Judement Of Mankind.  The group’s sophomore album, Overlord, came out in 2008.

TEMPLE OF BLOOD online: www.templeofblood.net & www.facebook.com/ToBMetalBand

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

AUDIOVISION - Focus release date and details revealed:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band AUDIOVISION will release their second album Focus in Europe and North America on April 23rd through Ulterium Records.  The album was produced and mixed by Erik Mårtensson (W.E.T., ECLIPSE) and mastered by Micke Lind (DIO, CANDLEMASS, TALISMAN).

Focus is a high quality melodic metal release influenced by bands like WHITESNAKE, DIO, RAINBOW, EUROPE, GOTTHARD and STRYPER.  Fans of the genre will not be disappointed!

AUDIOVISION line up:

Christian Liljegren (DIVINEFIRE, ex-NARNIA) - Vocals
Simeon Liljegren (Ex-MODEST ATTRACTION) - Bass
Torbjörn Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE) - Guitars
Thomas Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE) - Drums
Olov Andersson (GRAND STAND) - Keyboards

Focus track listing:

1. “Invitation”
2. “Keep The Fire Burning”
3. “We Are Not Alone”
4. “The Son Will Come”
5. “You Are The Reason”
6. “Fruit Of Love”
7. “We Will Go”
8. “I Will Belong To You”
9. “The Way”
10. “The Gate”
11. “Focus”
 
The official release party for Focus will be held at The Cave Rock Club in Sundbyberg, Sweden on April 24th together with the bands HOUSE OF SHAKIRA and MERCURY FANG.

AUDIOVISION is the new band of former NARNIA vocalist Christian Liljegren.  The group released its full length debut, The Calling, on Rivel Records in 2005.  The album proved more of a project than a full band effort in that it featured the contributions of numerous vocalists, guitarists, bassists and keyboardists.

Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

AUDIOVISION online: www.facebook.com/pages/AUDIOVISION

BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA release new album:
The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned, the latest release from BMO, is now available:

Press Release / The BMO website has been updated with the album artwork and the track “Catspaw” is up on the music player.  Also, the BMO  Myspace and Facebook pages are also up to date and the song is available there too.

The CD is available for purchase at CDBaby and Amazon.com as well as through the BMO website.  You will also find a new digital download site called Digstation that allows for downloading the booklet and artwork as well.

The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned track listing:

1. “Catspaw”
2. “Apollo”
3. “Benai Elohim (Semjaza's Return)”
4. “A Constitutional Right?”
5. “Jesus Save...”
6. “Hate Crime”
7. “Ruin”
8. “Viva Cristo Rey!”
9. “We Is Killin' Me”
10. “Godless”
11. “You're On Your own...This Time”
12. “The Twelfth Imam”

BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA online: www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com/home.html & www.facebook.com/pages/Babylon-Mystery-Orchestra

NEWS BRIEFS

* Mike Botello, former vocalist of the Texas melodic metal band AWAKE, has released his second solo album, Rule Of Law, on Mijaces Records.  Botello was part of AWAKE at the time it recorded its 1990 full length debut Spiritual Warfare.  His debut solo release A Timeless State and a re-issue of Spiritual Warfare both came out on Mijaces in 2006.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

CRYSTAVOX - The 20 Year Mix details & cover art revealed:
Press Release / CRYSTAVOX and Roxx Records are very proud to reveal the full release details and new cover art for their brand new Limited Edition release The Twenty Year Mix. This two disc set is scheduled to be released May 25th, 2010 and will consist of both a full length CD and a very special DVD release.

First up disc one will be a completely re-mastered “Best Of” CD consisting of many of your favorite CRYSTAVOX tracks including “Sacrifice”, “Home Again”, “Power Games”, “its All Right”, “Shame”, “Big Picture”, “Snakes”, “Paradise”, “No Boundaries”, “Guns”, “Break Down The Walls” and “Cry Out”. All these tracks were taken straight from the master tapes that had been sitting in storage in the Ocean Records archives for close to twenty years. These tracks have been completely re-mastered and totally redone: new guitars, drums and an over-sampling method vastly increasing the mastered volume of each song to today’s standards making for an optimal sound that brings these tracks straight in to the modern day.

Disc two will be a very special DVD release consisting of a recently discovered “never before released’ live concert footage and also several MTV style video clips that have never before been officially released. All footage has had the color completely corrected and restored and has been completely re-mastered in the 16:9 format. In addition to all of this classic re-mastered video footage the DVD will also include a recently recorded, “where are they now” segment - shot in HD, and featuring the band “self narrating” the story of CRYSTAVOX!

If all that isn’t enough for you then you will definitely want to get your order in early as everyone that gets in on the Pre-Order will receive an exclusive 3rd disc that will only be made available to those that pre-order. This bonus disc is a Live EP of a behind the scenes recording taken straight from the soundboard at a New Year’s Eve show in San Diego, California on December 31, 1992. This would ultimately be the last and only live audio recording CRYSTAVOX would ever do.

Head to www.roxxproductions.com to get your order in early and take advantage of this strictly limited edition bonus disc.

CRYSTAVOX online: www.adamleekemp.com/crystavox-and-band-home

 

FEATURED REVIEWS

DESYRE - Warning Of The Night
Drawing its name from I Thessalonians 5:2, Desyre got its start in 2004 with its first demo, Hair Metal Madness, before following up a year later with its second, Out Of The Blue Into The Red.  The group proceeded to go on a year long hiatus only to regroup and begin work on its independently released full length debut from the fall of 2009, Warning Of The Night.  Read Full Review >>

F.O.G. - Judgement & Redemption
Not so with F.O.G. and its latest release, Judgement & Redemption, from 2009.  The album “bucks the trend” by proving a front to back consistent listen as a result of the group’s ability to infuse its material with enough melody and catchy hooks to keep your attention from wavering.  Read Full Review >>

MASTEDON - It’s A Jungle Out There
It’s A Jungle Out There eventually went out of print and became a hard to find and highly sought after collectors item.  In late 2009, however, the album was re-issued by Frontiers Records with “Wasn’t It Love” and live versions of “Islands In The Sky” and “Right Hand” (both performed at the Cornerstone 1991 Festival) as bonus tracks.  Read Full Review >>

MASTEDON - 3
After over a decade of silence, John Elefante returns with the third Mastedon album, appropriately entitled 3.  Musically, the album showcases the same type of catchy AOR and melodic rock of its predecessors.  If you like It’s A Jungle Out There and Lofcaudio then 3 will be certain to appeal to you.  Read Full Review >>

MEHIDA - The Eminent Storm
What would be the best way to describe music for a cold and rainy day?  My initial thoughts revolve around something down-tuned, low-key or even Gothic.  Melancholic and disconsolate also come to mind- and not just musically but lyrically as well.  The blues, of course, deserves an equal measure of consideration.  Read Full Review >>

MELIAH RAGE - Masquerade
Masquerade, Meliah Rages’ seventh full length album from 2009, finds vocalist Mike Munro returning to the fold.  What Munro brings with him back to the band is his new found faith.  Read Full Review >>

SAINT - Crime Scene Earth 2.0
While Crime Scene Earth was initially an independent release by the band (on its own Armor Records label), in late 2009 it was re-mastered and re-issued by Retroactive Records with new (better) album artwork.  Hence, the new title Crime Scene Earth 2.0.  Read Full Review >>

SUNROAD - Long Gone
Sunroad returns in late 2009 with its fourth full length studio effort, Long Gone.   The album finds the group continuing to meld hard rock with occasional groove and blues based moments but stepping it up in the songwriting department and delivering some of the finest compositions of its career.  Read Full Review >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Upcoming Retroactive Records re-issues:
Press Release / Retroactive Records will be re-issuing the following hard to find and out of print albums in the coming months: DANIEL BAND, On Rock, FINAL AXE, Beyond Hell’s Gate, TITANIC, Maiden Voyage, TITANIC, Screaming In Silence.  MAIN LINE RIDERS guitarist Cliffy, who re-mastered the four, offers his thoughts concerning each project:

DANIEL BAND - On Rock (Collector's Edition)

Great band, classic album from 1982. My goal with this one was to restore it to its original glory. The M8 release from years ago was overly compressed, devoid of dynamics, had harsh highs and a false sense of stereo separation. I have addressed all of these issues. If you already have this album, trust me when I tell you to that it will benefit you to buy it again. The crappy bonus tracks from the M8 release have been replaced with two brand new '09 tracks that sound fantastic. Another great thing about this version is the return of the original cover. This one's already on my iPod. It's that good.

On Rock track listing: "He’s The Creator", "I’m Sorry", "You Don’t Need The Blues", "Free From Sin", "Undercover Christian", "Two Roads", "Never Again", "In The Sky", "I Like To Rock", "Spiritual Game", "Somebody Loves You", “It All Turns To Rain” (bonus track), “I Give You All” (bonus track)

FINAL AXE - Beyond Hell's Gate (Collector's Edition)

Monstrous 1989 debut by Bill Menchen's FINAL AXE. Robert Sweet (STRYPER) on drums on all tracks. All drums were re-recorded from the ground up in '08. Guitars and vocals were re-recorded in '04 (the 2005 reissue had drum machine on every track). If you ever thought drums don't make a difference then I invite you to check this out and prove to yourself how wrong you were. Robert makes such a difference on this album that you'll swear you've never heard it before. This version also includes a killer drum instrumental called Area 51, making this the first Robert Sweet released drum solo since the ROXX REGIME demo.

Beyond Hell’s Gate track listing: “Beyond The Gate”, “Baptized In Blood”, “Are You Ready?”, “No Time To Die”, “Soldier Of Compromise”, “Blind Faith”, “Area 51” (1:54), “Close To Deliverance”, “Thrown In The Fire”, “Don’t Run Away”, “War Cry”, “Rated X”, “Eternity”

TITANIC - Maiden Voyage (Collector's Edition)

Aah, the first TITANIC album...originally released in '96. Robert Sweet on drums on all tracks. All drums were re-recorded from the ground up in '08. All previous versions of this album had drum machine on every track. Once again the difference that Robert makes to this album is overwhelming.  Worth the repurchase... and then some.

Maiden Voyage track listing: “Nightmare”, “You’ve Got Nothing On Me”, “Gods Of War”, “And The Dead Shall Arise”, “Ocean Of Blood”, “Hollywood Blvd”, “I Don’t Believe”, “Fight Back”, “I Am Watching You”, “Freak Show”

TITANIC - Screaming In Silence (Collector's Edition)

Bill Menchen assembled his TITANIC crew in '02 to make the follow up to the band's '96 debut. Robert Sweet on drums on all tracks. All drums were re-recorded from the ground up in '08. All previous versions of this album had drum machine on every track. Just like the two albums discussed previously (Beyond Hell's Gate & Maiden Voyage), Robert really makes an enormous improvement to this album. Additionally, Bill redid his guitar solos (showcasing his ability this time around) and completely reworked the rhythm guitar and structure of the first track (And The Band Plays On).

Also, in April Retroactive plans to re-issue digitally re-mastered versions of the first three BRIDE albums: Show No Mercy, Live To Die & Silence Is Madness.

Screaming In Silence track listing: "The Band Plays On", "Hypnotic", "Time", "As I Am", "See Through My Eyes", "Carnival Of Souls", "Broken Toys", "Web Dreams", "Questions", "Screaming In Silence"

Retroactive Records online: http://retroactiverecords.net/store/retroactive-records.html

BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA - track listing to new album, The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned:

1. “Catspaw”
2. “Apollo”
3. “Benai Elohim (Semjaza's Return)”
4. “A Constitutional Right?”
5. “Jesus Save...”
6. “Hate Crime”
7. “Ruin”
8. “Viva Cristo Rey!”
9. “We Is Killin' Me”
10. “Godless”
11. “You're On Your own...This Time”
12. “The Twelfth Imam”

Look for the album to be released in February.  Also, unlike previous BMO releases, The Godless, The Godforsaken And The God Damned will not be concept related.

BMO is a controversial Gothic metal/hard rock project form Greenville, Alabama.  Past albums include Axis Of Evil (2008), The Great Apostasy (2006), On Earth As It Is In Heaven (2004) and Divine Right Of Kings (2003).

BABYLON MYSTERY ORCHESTRA online: www.babylonmysteryorchestra.com/home.html & www.facebook.com/pages/Babylon-Mystery-Orchestra

25 years of DELIVERANCE:
Press Release / In 1985, bands like STRYPER and BARREN CROSS were just starting to make their marks on the Christian Metal scene. In the Thrash world bands like METALLICA, SLAYER and TESTAMENT were in their infancy and just about to take the metal world by storm. It was 1985 that also saw the beginnings of an act that would come along and successfully meld these 2 genres together and ultimately leave an everlasting impact on both of these Metal communities, that band was DELIVERANCE!!! Fronted by the very outspoken and charismatic Jimmy P. Brown he would take this band and the Christian Thrash scene to a whole new level.

Fast forward to 2010, and we are very proud to be celebrating 25 years of that successful outfit known as DELIVERANCE. Still recording and playing shows to any place that will host them! If you ask any Christian Metal fan out there to name the most influential Christian Thrash band of old and still in the scene to this day, undoubtedly DELIVERANCE will top the list!

In celebration of 25 years of DELIVERANCE, DELIVERANCE fans have several things to look forward to this year…

Up first a BRAND NEW studio album through Retroactive Records! You heard that right 2010 will see a brand new release from the Christian thrash masters entitled The Annals of Subterfuge! (Full press release forthcoming from Retroactive Records)

Also Roxx Records in conjunction with the Christian Metal Realm (CMR) are set to release Temporary Insanity – A Salute to Deliverance, a 2 CD set all star tribute to DELIVERANCE! Which is set to feature many special guests artists and contributions from current and past members of the CRUCIFIED, DELIVERANCE, VENGEANCE RISING, DARK ANGEL, DARKNESS FALLS and many many more, all coming out to pay tribute to 25 Years of Deliverance, which will also include a brand new recording from DELIVERANCE- The 25th Anniversary Edition of “Flesh And Blood” completely redone and re-recorded! (Full press release forthcoming from Roxx Records/CMR)

Not enough for you! Plans are also in the works to bring DELIVERANCE to you live this year in celebration of 25 years of DELIVERANCE! Shows in California and Pennsylvania are currently in the works and we are currently entertaining a few other fly in dates for the band as well as some festival appearances! Interested in bringing DELIVERANCE to your area? Please contact bill@roxxproductions.com with any and all possibilities!

DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks

PASTOR BRAD - Break Out update:
Press Release / Roxx Records is very proud to announce the spring release of Break Out by PASTOR BRAD.  After 5 independent instrumental shred albums, PASTOR BRAD is back with his fourth full-length vocal album and first on Roxx Records!  While the old-school guitar shred influences are still here, this album will hit you square in the face with some of the heaviest sounding riffs ever recorded on any PASTOR BRAD album!

What started out as a true solo CD turned in to a very special release with tons of special guest artists!  The album is set to feature the following very special guest appearances:

Ken Tamplin
Ski (FAITH FACTOR)
Richie Z (BLIND SEVEN)
Rachel Anne (IRON MAJESTY)
Luke Webber (PASTOR BRAD)
Les Carlson (BLOODGOOD)
Chaz Bond (JACOBS DREAM)
Kenny Metcalf (STRYPER Keyboardist)
Angel Zamora
Jim Griffin (GRIFFIN X)

As an added bonus, the first 100 pre-orders of this special release will come with a bonus disc entitled Best Of The Rest, a bonus disc of rarities, unreleased tracks and also some of the Break Out tracks featuring PASTOR BRAD handling lead vocals! (They were just too good not to put out.)  So if you’re a PASTOR BRAD fan you will definitely want to get in on the pre-order for this one!

This debut Roxx Release is set to hit the streets on April 27, 2010 and will be available everywhere!

Also, be sure to check out the brand new Roxx Store while you're at it: www.roxxproductions.com

PASTOR BRAD online: http://pastorbradrocks.com & www.facebook.com/pastorbradrocks

New THEOCRACY album on the way:
Founding member vocalist Matt Smith offers further detail:

“All the demos are almost done, but we haven't actually started recording for real yet.  Still have to finish writing one song, but soon we're going to go ahead and start rehearsals on the new stuff and get ready to start recording.

"I'm looking forward to getting back to it.  I've been absolutely swamped for the last few months with the tour, trying to finish up projects I'm recording and/or mixing for other bands, moving, etc., but things should slow up after the next couple of weeks.  Since you guys are so cool and patient, here's a little teaser for ya, made up of short clips from my demos of the new songs (key word: DEMOS): www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/theocracy/539124-new-cd.html
 
"Yeah, I don't think there's any surpassing "Mirror of Souls" (the song) for me, personally...I feel like if I'm blessed enough to have a long life, I'll still think of that song as my magnum opus when I'm 80. So all we can do is try something different, which in this case will be a little more "Theocracy's Greatest Hits" song oriented (i.e. shorter songs that work great live, with a couple of epics thrown in). We want this one to be one of those albums where every single song could potentially be someone's favorite, as opposed to a group of songs orbiting around one big epic. We're sure not going to have another 24-minute song on this one...gotta keep things fresh and unpredictable.

"Where I DO think you can compare is in the more tangible aspects: the production is far better on MOS, the singing is better, etc., and the third album will hopefully continue that upward trend (especially when it comes to the guitar parts and solos). So I feel like we're still getting better and better, and once I feel like we're not getting better, then it will be time to walk away. But I'm very excited for this album; I had some specific goals in mind and I think we're going to meet them, such as making this one feel like a Theocracy's Greatest Hits album and making it closer to 50 minutes than 80, so you'll want to play it again as soon as it's over.”

THEOCRACY got its start on Metal Ages records with the epic melodic power metal of its 2003 self-titled debut.  The group moved on to Ulterium Records five years later for the follow up effort Mirror Of Souls. 

THEOOCRACY online: www.theocracymusic.com & www.facebook.com/theocracyband

NEWS BRIEFS

* DARRELL MANSFIELD is currently working on a rock and blues album to be entitled New Revelation.  A release date is planned for later in the year.

* SAINT will be playing a show on February 13, 2010 at The Grand Theatre in Salem, Oregon.  The group plans to shoot a full length DVD of the performance along with music videos of “The Blade” and “New World Order”.  Also, guitarist Dee Harrington has left SAINT in order to work on his own projects.

* STAIRYWAY has finished mixing its new album, Interregnum.  The project is currently being mastered.  A release date is not yet scheduled.

* The fourth TORMAN MAXT album, The Problem of Pain Part 2, is being mixed and is due out in early 2010.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

AUDIOVISION signs with Ulterium Records:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are very proud to announce the signing of the Swedish melodic metal band AUDIOVISION.  The bands new album, Focus, will be released later this spring, with release dates and more information to be announced within the coming weeks.

AUDIOVISION line up:

Christian Liljegren (DIVINEFIRE, ex-NARNIA) - Vocals
Simeon Liljegren (Ex-MODEST ATTRACTION) - Bass
Torbjörn Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE) - Guitars
Thomas Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE) - Drums
Olov Andersson (GRAND STAND) - Keyboards

AUDIOVISION are also just confirmed as opening act for STRYPER on three of their European shows.  The dates are as follows:

January 26th: Markthalle - Hamburg, Germany
January 27th: KB - Malmö, Sweden
January 28th: Trädgårn - Gothenburg, Sweden

The two up-coming singles from Focus, "Invitation" and "Keep The Fire Burning", will be performed for the very first time at these shows.

AUDIOVISION debuted on Rivel Records in 2005 with the full length offering The Calling.  The album was more of a project than a full band effort in that it featured the contributions of numerous vocalists, guitarists, bassists and keyboardists.

Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

AUDIOVISION online: www.facebook.com/pages/AUDIOVISION

Debut album from SINBREED, When Worlds Collide:
Press Release / Ulterium Records will release the debut album, When Worlds Collide, by the German power metal band SINBREED on March 26th for the European market.  Release dates for Japan and North America will be announced shortly.
 
SINBREED is the project OF 27 year old Guitarist Flo Laurin, who has joined forces with vocalist Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE) and drummer Frederik Ehmke (BLIND GUARDIAN) to create the distinctive power metal that is SINBREED: a blistering combination of speed, melodic and aggressive arrangements and soaring vocals.

SINBREED line up:

Herbie Langhans – Vocals
Flo Laurin – Guitars & Keyboards
Alexander Schulz - Bass
Frederik Ehmke  - Drums

When Worlds Collide track listing:

1. “Newborn Tomorrow”
2. “Book Of Life”
3. “When Worlds Collide”
4. “Dust To Dust”
5. “Infinity's Call”
6. “Through The Dark”
7. “Enemy Lines”
8. “Room 101”
9. “Arise”
10. “Salvation”
 
When Worlds Collide was mixed and mastered by Markus Teske (SYMPHONY X, VANDEN PLAS) and artwork created by Felipe Machado Franco (ICED EARTH, AYREON).  The album features guest appearances by Thomas Rettke [REDKEY, HEAVEN’S GATE) Joost van den Broek (AYREON, STAR ONE) and Morten Sandager (PRETTY MAIDS)..
 
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com/news.html

SINBREED online: www.sinbreed.com & www.facebook.com/Sinbreed

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

Roxx Productions signs CRYSTAVOX:
Press Release / After 20 years of silence, one of Christian Metal’s loudest bands is back, with a great story and a line of new limited releases in collaboration with Roxx Productions. CRYSTAVOX, based out of San Diego, CA., recently met again informally to mark the 20 year anniversary of the bands first record deal (Regency 1989).  Discussions progressed, causing the band to research where the original master recordings were located.  CRYSTAVOX lead guitarist, Tony Lopez, located the master tapes - stored in a warehouse in Burbank, CA.  The previous record label; Ocean Records, released the Archived Media back to CRYSTAVOX.

“We were finally in possession of all the two-inch masters from both records but after 20 years in storage, we would have to bake the tapes in order to allow them to pass through a tape machine again,” said Lopez. “Convection baking worked and we were able to digitize the tapes in high resolution to the Pro Tools format,” Lopez concluded.

Not only did the band now have control over a remix of such hit songs as “Scarifice” (#1 PRR 1990), “Home Again” (#3 CCM 1990), and “It’s All Right” (#7 PRR 1990), but also discovered a “never released” live concert and MTV style video. Bringing this dated and worn media back to life fell on the shoulders of drummer, Fred Helm, who had become a director and producer for regional and national televisions shows since his departure from CRYSTAVOX.

“Finally getting to load this live show into our production studio was so much fun,” said Helm. “The only copy we had was a 20 year old VHS tape that had been played several times over the years. All the blacks were grey, the color was washed and in 1990, Widescreen TV did not exist. We have corrected the color issues and re-mastered the video in the 16:9 format. These videos; which consist of 4 live songs and 4 MTV-style video productions, will also include a recently recorded, “where are they now” segment - shot in HD, and featuring the band “self narrating” the story of CRYSTAVOX.

The band took a shot at remixing the old songs to see if modern technology could add a new edge to the hit songs recorded so long ago - when MP3’s, the internet and non-linear digital recording did not even exist. “The pre mixes were good enough to import a complete Pro Tools HD system into the production studio and take a serious shot at remixing the old songs,” said CRYSTAVOX song writer and guitarist Loren Holmquist.

“When I heard the pre-mixes, I was astounded as to the clarity and general lack of over-processed sounds that we had gotten used to,” said Adam Lee Kemp, lead singer for CRYSTAVOX. “The 80’s were all about excess; in vocals, layered harmonies, guitars and effects.” “Consequently, I knew that converting those previous concepts into a current format would involve a major overhaul in order to synchronize the delivery with modern music and culture.” “Ultimately, Fred was able to start-from-scratch and re-mix these new versions using a minimal portion of subtle effects - causing the songs to appear modern, 20 years after they were recorded.” Kemp concluded.

The songs have been totally redone; new guitars, drums and an over-sampling method vastly increasing the mastered volume of each song to today’s standards. The re-discovery of CRYSTAVOX in 2010 comes complete with a custom built media website featuring the bands songs and videos.

The new release entitled, The 20 Year Mix will include a DVD and the “Best Of” songs released through Roxx Records/Roxx Productions.

“I realized CRYSTAVOX might be in the position to re-release its library which, in its original versions would have done well. Realizing the songs had been remixed and there was a DVD interested Roxx,” said Bill Bafford, President of Roxx Productions. “We are very excited about this limited release and the relationship with Crystavox.”

The release is set for early Spring 2010 on Roxx Records.

After the break up of CRYSTAVOX in early 1992, original members Adam Lee Kemp, Loren Holmquist, Fred Helm and Tony Lopez continued in the production and recording industries recording over 45 releases and 27 television shows.

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

CRYSTAVOX online: www.adamleekemp.com/crystavox-and-band-home

KERRY LIVGREN stroke update:
The latest from the artist in regards to his recovery:

"The various therapies continued – as did the improvements. I was basically aware that I was slowly getting better, but I really didn't grasp how much I was improving. People that I spoke to on an occasional basis always remarked about how much better I was speaking. The change was so gradual, that I could scarcely notice it. Over time, the feeling was coming back to my hand. I finally sat down at my piano, and suddenly I could play with both hands. It was nowhere near my former ability, but now I had hope. As the days have passed, my playing improves slowly – I can even pick a few notes on the guitar.

"I am now, as of this writing, four months from the date of my stroke. I still have some speech problems, and some trouble with my right arm. It has been a long and hard struggle, and there is still a ways to go. I did not know it at first, but this stroke was serious. I just now am finding out how serious. My Doctor, after conferring with several other physicians including a hematologist, told me that what had caused the stroke was a blood disorder called “antiphospholipid syndrome.” He said that it was unlikely that a physical exam would have revealed it. It is a type of auto-immune disorder, and he informed me that I must be on blood-thinner drugs, presumably for the rest of my life. I was not pleased about having to take Coumadin, but I left his office resolved."

Further reading: www.numavox.com/mystroke.html

Kerry Livgren online: www.numavox.com/home.htm

Angelic Warlord Update Archives: HERE