METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

THE NEAL MORSE BAND announce new album, The Grand Experiment:
Press Release / For the first time ever progressive rock icon Neal Morse came into a recording session with his long time friend and collaborator Mike Portnoy (along with Randy George, Bill Hubauer and Eric Gillette)... with NOTHING! He had no prepared material at all. Neal comments, "I wanted to see what it would be like to create freely in the room with no preconceived notions. It was quite a risk!" On previous albums, like the Testimony album for example, Morse had the entire album written in advance. "I used to be rather paranoid about whether things would turn out in the short space of time we had available...so I would fill all the space in advance!" This album was totally different. "I made a lot of room for the other guys to create and express themselves and the result is outstanding! We wanted to experiment, do something a bit different, and see what everyone is capable of... we found out.. .in SPADES!" The results are obvious! This was a "grand experiment" that produced something far beyond anyone's expectations!

The Grand Experiment will be released in 3 formats:

• Single Disc

• 3 Disc Special Edition Digipak (containing the main disc, bonus audio disc featuring 3 unreleased studio tracks and 2 live tracks from the phenomenal Morsefest weekend, and a "making of" documentary DVD in special packaging

• LP + 2 CD Set (containing main disc, and bonus audio disc)

The main disc contains 5 tracks, including 2 long ‘prog epics’ that are sure to be favorites for years to come, as well as 3 shorter songs, including the catchy title track "The Grand Experiment." 

The album was mixed by Rich Mouser.

The Grand Experiment track listing:

1. “Following The Call”
2. “The Grand Experiment”
3. “Waterfall”
4. “Agenda”
5. “Alive Again”

Pre-orders begin on January 10, 2015.

Album release date is February 15, 2015.

Neal Morse online: www.nealmorse.com & www.facebook.com/nealmorse

JUPITER VI - New single, “Face In The Sky”, available for streaming:
Press Release / JUPITER VI released its sophomore album Moveable Walls via Roxx Records on December 16, 2014.

The Moveable Walls track listing is as follows:

1. Sleepless End pt. I-IV (19:54)
2. Wasting Away (06:53)
3. Running (05:40)
4. Face in the Sky (03:42)
5. A Message from Home pt. I (12:16)

The song “Face In The Sky” is available for streaming at the Roxx Records ReverbNation page: www.reverbnation.com/roxxrecords/song/22483255-face-in-the-sky-jupiter-vi

Commented vocalist & guitarist Jimmy P. Brown II: “Moveable Walls is a 50 minute album diving into thoughtful slightly progressive music ala Pink Floyd/Bowie with a psychological story of attaining success, but losing ones self, only to find it all again by losing everything.

“There's a bit more to it than that, but it's quite an accomplished record that I would like to invite all of you to experience.”

Moveable Walls was released as part of a 2-disc set, with the second entitled Covered Stars & Undiscovered Planets.

Further details from the artist: "Covered Stars & Undiscovered Planets is a 5 song EP containing 3 cover songs from some of my favorite musical influences along with 2 new originals as well.  It is more in line with what Back from Mars (THE JUPITER VI debut from 2006) record was like.

“Please stop by the Roxx Productions website, Amazon, CD Baby, eBay, or iTunes and many other digital retail outlets to order yours.

“Your support to the musical arts and the artists that create are more than appreciated!!! Support Your Artists and buy music again, don't steal MP3's or MP4's or whatever else take away from the time and money invested to bring this music to the world...”

Moveable Walls can be ordered at: http://roxxrecords.storenvy.com

JUPITER VI online: www.facebook.com/jupiterviroxx

SWEET & LYNCH & STRYPER update from Michael Sweet:
As taken from the STRYPER Facebook page (December 19, 2014):

“I've read so many comments about me doing the Sweet & Lynch project that my eyes are blurry! Although I'm a devote Christian, I believe in working together with people of ALL faiths and through it, shining my light and standing strong in my faith without compromise. George is a great guy, a great player (who I believe has been blessed with a God given talent) and I always wanted to work with George.

“I'd also like to work with Eddie Van Halen someday and if that door is ever opened, I'll walk through it without hesitation. Eddie is my biggest influence as a player (Randy Rhoads also but he's gone).

“Regarding James Lomenzo and Brian Tichy, they are amongst the best of the best and again, this is why I chose them to be a part of "Only To Rise". As the producer, I wanted the best and I'm proud to say that this album has that. The album is almost here (1/27), and I do hope that all of you will support it by preordering and or purchasing it. Lyrically it is a positive, powerful message/ Musically, it rocks!!! I'm my own worst critic and I couldn't be happier with how this album turned out!

“Stryper is stronger than ever, we just need a little time to recuperate as a band and get some things in order that desperately need change. We are making a new album in February as many of you know but the touring will be limited. We'll be performing on the Monster's of Rock cruise in April of 2015 and of course organizing and attending our 3rd annual Stryper Fan Weekend. We may do a few shows here and there and possibly a Japan/Australia run later in the year but for the most part, touring will mainly be either solo MS or Sweet & Lynch. I hope to see you all out on the road throughout 2015!!!

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for always being there, through thick and thin, better or worse and for being who you are.”

SWEET & LYNCH online: www.facebook.com/SweetLynch

STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

MAIN LINE RIDERS re-release debut album:
Press Release / MAIN LINE RIDERS have re-mastered and reissued its full-length debut Shot In The Dark, which originally came out on Retroactive Records in 2007.

According to guitarist Cliff Powell, “Our debut album will soon show up on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and all other digital outlets with new cover art (one that is much more appropriate for the sound of the band) and slightly re-mastered audio, as follows:

1. Dynamics Restoration work completed throughout (the quieter parts now sit properly in the mix...soloed drum & vocal, guitar intros, acoustics, etc).

2. The live song at the end was fully re mastered to bring out the vocal and drums, thus helping it feel better along side all the studio tracks.”

Powell goes into further detail: “I'm still quite proud of this album.  I find it to be a genuine slab of that late 80's sunset strip sound I love so much.  The production, in my view, is very much in line with the LA Guns and Faster Pussycat debut records.  It's an unrefined approach that showcases a band's live sound. I personally feel that we got the songwriting just right for that era as well.”

Shot In The Dark track listing:

1. “Ride The Main Line”
2. “One Way Ticket To Love”
3. “Throwin’ Bones To The Wolves”
4. “Here I Am”
5. “Speed Queen”
6. “Pack Up Your Blues”
7. “Walk Alone”
8. “Put The Hammer Down”
9. “We Are The Ready Ones”
10. “Shot In The Dark”

“Shot In The Dark” is a live version of the song originally recorded by JUNKYARD (from the group’s 1989 self-titled debut full length).

MAIN LINE RIDERS online: https://myspace.com/mainlineriders

SLEEPING ROMANCE - “Fire & Ice” single released:
Press Release / Symphonic metal band SLEEPING ROMANCE just released a brand new digital single entitled "Fire & Ice". The digital single also includes two additional tracks: a "cinematic version" of "Fire & Ice" as well as a re-recorded version of the track "December Flower" from their fall of 2013 Ulterium Records full length debut album Enlighten. The digital single is available at iTunes, Spotify and Bandcamp.

"Fire & Ice" track listing:
1. “Fire & Ice”
2. “December Flower” (Chamber music version)
3. Fire & Ice (Cinematic version)

Bandcamp link: https://ulteriumrecords.bandcamp.com

SLEEPING ROMANCE online: www.sleeping-romance.com & www.facebook.com/sleepingromanceofficial

THEOCRACY - New Christmas single posted online:
Press Release / THEOCRACY have continued their tradition of releasing a free Christmas song with a brand-new rendition of “Night of Silence”.  The Georgia-based melodic metal band followed up 2012’s “Wynter Fever” with a dramatic and mostly acoustic take on the traditional, which can also be downloaded for free in the Club of Souls section of their website.

Commented the group: “We wanted to do another traditional Christmas song for you this year, and we decided to do something a bit different by doing a (mostly) acoustic version. We hope you enjoy it, and we wish you and your families nothing but the best this holiday season. Thanks for another great year of support, and look for a new album from us in 2015!”

Visit Club of Souls at: www.theocracymusic.com/clubofsouls

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

NEWS BRIEFS

* A new VISUAL CLIFF single, “Internal Exile”, will be available for download by Christmas.

* WONROWE VISION update from vocalist Steve Rowe: “The guitars, bass and drums are all complete for 2 Headed Monster (the new Wonrowe Vision album). I will be recording all of the vocals in January! I have been taking pro singing lessons this year with an aim to once again broaden my musical experience & reach new and exciting musical territory! As usual with me, '2HM' sounds like nothing else in the world! However it has strong influences from Motorhead, early Iron Maiden, Motorjesus, G.B.H, Sabbath & Lightforce. So a little less rock & a little more metal!”

 

FEATURED REVIEWS

ATKINS MAY PROJECT - Empire of Destruction
As monumentally important as Judas Priest was to the NWOBHM movement, it was inevitable that other bands would find a way to lend their own unique spin to the UK born phenomenon that emerged in the late seventies.  Case in point: Atkins May Project, as its namesake implies, is the new band of original Judas Priest vocalist Al Atkins, who has joined forces with Christian guitarist and music artist Paul May.  Read Full Review >>

CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE - Get The Hell Out
Hailing from Poteua, Oklahoma and founded in 2006 by vocalist Rexx Roxx, Chaotic Resemblance has gotten off to a strong start with a pair of EP releases to its credit, Chaotic Resemblance (2012) and Battle Lines (2013), in addition to its summer of 2014 Oz Fox (Stryper) produced full-length debut Get The Hell Out.  Read Full Review >>

DELIVERANCE - Stay Of Execution (Roxx Records re-issue)
When Deliverance released Stay Of Execution, its fourth full-length album on Intense Records from 1992, it ushered in a period of change for the group.  Read Full Review >>

EMPIRE 21 - Empire 21
As one might imagine, Empire 21 draws upon a strong Narnia influence, particularly when factoring how Grimmark plays a lead songwriting role with both groups.  Read Full Review >>

MIKE FLORIO - Reconcile
Reconcile, the fall of 2014 sophomore solo release of Westchester County, New York vocalist and keyboardist Mike Florio, makes a lot of sense as a crossover of progressive rock and other forms of hard music.  Read Full Review >>

HARMONY - Theatre Of Redemption
Harmony is, by definition, a consistent, orderly, or pleasing arrangement of parts; congruity.  That it’s the name given to a Swedish melodic metal band is fitting.  Read Full Review >>

SAINT - Warriors Of The Son 04 (Retroactive re-issue)
Makeovers can either accentuate the positive or simply cover over glaring faults.  In the case of Salem, Oregon classic metal act Saint and the re-recorded version of its debut EP Warriors Of The Son it is a little bit of both.  The album, as I am sure most of you are aware, has quite the storied history.  Read Full Review >>

STRYPER - Live At The Whiskey
When Stryper released its debut EP The Yellow And Black Attack in the summer of 1984, it was on the leading edge of what became known as the ‘white metal movement’.  Read Full Review >>

INTERVIEWS

New Markus Sigfridsson interview online:
Angelic Warlord conducted a recent interview with HARMONY guitarist Markus Sigfridsson, who shares his thoughts about the group’s new album, Theatre Of Redemption.  He also goes into detail about the future of both HARMONY and his other projects DARKWATER and 7 DAYS.  Following is an excerpt:

What are your feelings about Theatre Of Redemption?  Are you happy with the way the album turned out? And how has the response been so far?
Yes, we are happy, it feels good to finally have an album out after six years. The production is really good and we have evolved on everything I think. The response has been really good so far, I think it’s by far our best album.

Read full interview: HERE

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

SWEET & LYNCH - “The Wish” video premier:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / SWEET & LYNCH - the new band featuring guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER, legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB), bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and drummer Brian Tichy (S.U.N., WHITESNAKE) - will release its debut album, "Only To Rise", on January 27, 2015 via Frontiers Music srl. The CD was produced by Sweet, who also helmed the last STRYPER album, No More Hell To Pay.

The official video for the SWEET & LYNCH song "The Wish" can be seen above. The clip shows Sweet and Lynch performing the song together amongst imagery that corresponds with the song's lyrics. The video was shot in Los Angeles and was directed by Devin DeHaven, known for his work with Rick Ross, WHITESNAKE, KISS and R. Kelly, to name a few.

"After almost a year of talking about the SWEET & LYNCH album, we're extremely proud to premiere the first music video, 'The Wish'," states Sweet.

"The song takes you back to a time when guitar heroes ruled the airwaves and melodies soared. The thought was to bring back the late '70s/early '80s with a modern twist and remind people of one of the best eras in hard rock/metal."

Only To Rise track listing:

1. “The Wish”
2. “Dying Rose”
3. “Love Stays”
4. “Time Will Tell”
5. “Rescue Me”
6. “Me Without You”
7. “Recover”
8. “Divine”
9. “September”
10. “Strength In Numbers”
11. “Hero-Zero”
12. “Only To Rise”

"George and I are proud of how this album turned out and we're counting the days for the release," adds Sweet. "We're equally as proud of the fan base out there. So many people have been there through thick and thin and this album is a testimony to the perseverance of working hard and working even harder. George, Brian, James and myself gave 110% to every note played and sung and we hope that it shows."

In a recent post on his Facebook page, Sweet wrote about the formation of SWEET & LYNCH: "I was approached by Serafino at Frontiers Records to sing and write for what he was referring to as a 'super group' project (one of the first) that Frontiers would be putting together and releasing. I was, of course, not only intrigued by the idea but also humbled that he would ask me! Jon Levin (DOKKEN) was suggested as the possible guitarist and I suggested to Serafino getting the man himself, Mr. Scary (George Lynch) involved. Serafino was, of course, excited about the idea. Frontiers has told me how happy they are with my production on the new STRYPER albums so I immediately suggested producing as well. Serafino also agreed. I contacted George (as soon as possible) and he quickly agreed to be a part of this exciting project. It was decided that he and I would co-write everything together and that I would produce.

"I knew George from a few STRYPER/LYNCH MOB shows and we seemed to hit it off in terms of personalities.

"Many of you know that George considers himself to be a freethinker/atheist and I'm, of course, a devout Christian.

"You may ask how does an atheist and a Christian work together in a band situation? The answer is respect. Although I don't agree with George's spiritual/religious views (and he doesn't agree with mine, assumedly), we respect each other as musicians, friends and human beings.

"I'm free to do many things with the hope that maybe, just maybe, my life might have a profound effect on people I come in contact with.

"I've spoken with George many times over and he always strikes me as a genuine soul and someone who cares for and loves people. Bottom line? He's a great guy and I'm proud to be a part of this with George.

"Although we don't see eye to eye in our beliefs, we respect each other enough to not let that come between us.

"I believe that the uniqueness of each other helped created a very unique piece of art.

“Only To Rise could not have turned out any better, in my humble opinion, and George is equally as thrilled as I am. Now add to this Brian Tichy (drums) and James Lomenzo (bass), and together the four of us have painted a masterpiece (in my opinion) and we cannot wait for all of you to hear it in its entirety.

"A little more history: George wrote 60-90-second ideas (intro, verse, chorus) guitar oriented riffs/songs and then I arranged and wrote lyrics and melodies and mapped everything out. I then flew Brian and James out and we tracked the basic tracks (drums, bass, guitars) and then we tracked the background vocals (Robbie LaBlanc and Charles Foley).

"A funny side note: some people have said that the vocals sound like STRYPER. I'm not even singing within the background vocal stack, just the lead vocal over the vocal spread/stack.

"Also, some people have said that some of the songs sound like STRYPER. Well, either George Lynch is the biggest STRYPER fan on the planet or oddly enough, the guitar/song idea he came up with just so happen to have a little STRYPER flare. I think it's very different than STRYPER and the only common ground is the sound of my voice, which is instantly recognizable."

Plans are currently being worked out for SWEET & LYNCH to play a few live shows in the spring of next year, making this different than any other super groups that record together but never play live. More information will be announced in the near future.

Frontiers Records online: www.frontiers.it/home

SWEET & LYNCH online: www.facebook.com/SweetLynch

NEWS BRIEFS

* BARREN CROSS live Birth Pangs high def multi-cam video preview trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfBoftiZII8

The one hour and 33 minute performance was recorded live at the 2012 Elements Of Rock festival in Switzerland and features the four original BARREN CROSS members.

* According to vocalist Rob Rock (Faceook - December 5, 2014), IMPELLITTERI has “(gotten off to a) great start to the new record last night!  The first song vocal tracking is complete with all the lead and backing vocals. Sean Shannon has great engineering skills and a fine set of ears!”

Sean Shannon adds his commentary as well: “Very smooth vocal tracking session with Rob Rock. He is sounding better than ever on this Impellitteri CD. Top shelf rock vocals goin down. And the band on this record is amazing.”

* SIGNUM REGIS will be releasing an EP in late spring of next year.  You can pre-order the EP directly from the band, which will help them finance a music video for one of the songs on the EP.  Check out the following video for further information: www.youtube.com/watch?v=87GX-woD21o

 

INTERVIEWS

New Carl Johan Grimmark interview online:
Angelic Warlord had the recent opportunity to talk with EMPIRE 21 guitarist Carl Johan Grimmark, who shares his thoughts about the groups recently released self-titled debut album.  In the interview, Grimmark goes into detail about the writing and recording process, the future of EMPIRE 21 and his time spent with NARNIA as well.  Following is an excerpt:

How would you describe Empire 21 musically?
I like to think of it as quite straight, powerful and organic rock/metal, but definitely not primitive. We value musicality and instrumental challenges, no doubt. We don't want the album to be boring for those who crave something spectacular now and then, but we want the "average" rock listener to have a good time too, by simply writing strong material. I think we made it. We're so happy for all the amazing reviews we get, so...hopefully a lot of people will like it!

Read full interview: HERE

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

PILGRIMSPROG release new single, "Here I Am":
Press Release / “Here I Am” is the latest single from the upcoming PILGRIMSPROG album of the same name, which will be released in early 2015.  “Here I Am” can be streamed and downloaded at the PILGRIMSPROG Bandcamp page: https://pilgrimsprog.bandcamp.com/track/here-i-am-single

Look for the song to also be available on Amazon and ITunes in the near future.

“Here I Am” is based on Hebrews 10:7/Psalms 40:6-8: "Then I said, ‘Here I am—it is written about me in the scroll. I have come to do your will, my God” (NIV)

Scott Miller performed all instrumentation with guest vocals handled by Garrett Weaver.

Here I Am will be the third studio album by PILGRIMSPROG, a progressive rock project of multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Scott Miller.  The self-tilted debut PILGRIMSPROG release from 2010 was a progressive rock concept album based on John Bunyan’s Christian classic Pilgrim's Progress.  The 2013 sophomore release Do You Have Thanatophobia? had rich themes of forgiveness, the scandal of the Cross, and the fear of death (Thanatophobia).

PILGRIMSPROG online: www.pilgrimsprog.com & www.facebook.com/pilgrimsprog

EMPIRE 21 - “I Can’t” lyric video released:
Press Release / “I Can’t”, the new video from Swedish melodic power metal act EMPIRE 21, can be seen above.  The song is taken off the groups self-titled debut album, which was independently released in Europe on November 28, 2014. The North American release is scheduled for December 2, 2014.

Guitarist CJ Grimmark produced the album while Tobias Lindell (EUROPE, MUSTASCH) handled mixing duties and Thomas “Plec” Johannson (SCAR SYMMETRY, AMMOTRACK) mastering.

All EMPIRE 21 members have experience with international bands, including NARNIA, DARKWATER, ROB ROCK, HARMONY and many others. The band was founded by drummer Tobias Enbert and singer Germán Pascual, who were both part of the 2009 touring lineup of CJ Grimmark’s band NARNIA. When Grimmark decided to put NARNIA to rest, the idea of EMPIRE 21 was born. They eventually talked Grimmark into joining the project and recruited Andreas Ålöv and John Svensson for the bass and keyboards positions, respectively. During the recording of the album, EMPIRE 21 parted ways with Pascual, who was subsequently replaced by singer Ricard Hulteke. 

Empire 21 track listing:

1. “When You're Falling”
2. “I Can't”
3. “All Is Lost”
4. “Traveler”
5. “Empire 21”
6. “100 Nights”
7. “Heard It All”
8. “This Is My Story”
9. “Calling”
10. “Would You”
11. “No Matter The Winds Of Change”

EMPIRE 21 line-up:

Ricard Hulteke - Lead Vocals
CJ Grimmark (NARNIA, ROB ROCK) - Guitars
John Svensson (HARMONY) - Keyboards
Andreas Ålöv - Bass
Tobias Enbert (DARKWATER, HARMONY) - Drums

EMPIRE 21 online: www.empire21.se & www.facebook.com/empire21.se

HARMONY - “Inhale” lyric video released:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY just released a lyric video for the track "Inhale" from their up-coming album Theatre of Redemption.

Theatre of Redemption was released on November 28th in Europe via Ulterium Records.  The North American release (also on Ulterium) is scheduled for December 2, 2014.

Theatre Of Redemption features Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON, HEED)on vocals on all tracks. The album was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (AT THE GATES, IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Thomas "Plec" Johansson (SCAR SYMMETRY, WATAIN).

The strong and diverse songs, the emotional and technical guitar playing by Markus Sigfridsson and the fantastic vocals provided by Daniel Heiman brings HARMONY up to the same level as the biggest bands in the melodic metal genre. Just listen and you will see. Follow HARMONY into the Theatre Of Redemption…

All physical editions of Theatre Of Redemption as well as three different t-shirt designs are available for pre-ordering at the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com

Theatre Of Redemption track listing:

1. “The Window Of My Soul”
2. “Inhale”
3. “Crown Me King”
4. “Son Of The Morning”
5. “What If”
6. “Theatre Of Redemption”
7. “Bloodbound”
8. “You Are”
9. “Hands Of Time”
10. “In Search Of”

HARMONY line up:

Daniel Heiman - Guest Lead Vocals
Markus Sigfridsson - Guitars, Voices, Additional Keyboards & Programming
John Svensson - Keyboards
Raphael Dafras - Bass
Tobias Enbert – Drums

HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden

NEWS BRIEFS

* New song from BOANERGES, “Recobra el Fuego”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=klgqPaoKwrs

* Commentary from guitarist Chris Impellitteri regarding new IMPELLITTERI album Time Machine (Facebook - November 14, 2014): “As we are in the mid point of recording the new IMPELLITTERI record Time Machine I am excited for our fans and friends around the world to hear this new music! At the same time, I like all artists have fear of how we will be received.. Will the critics try to discredit our style of music saying we play too many notes, sing too high, play too fast, are too metal, not metal enough, dated, or too polished with our big production? Will the media cover us, and will what's left of the music industry help us share this music with the masses?

“Either way IMPELLITTERI are making a KILLER new record because we love playing our style of music, sharing it with anyone who will listen to us, and challenging ourselves to make a record that everyone will want to listen to many times over! Time Machine to be released in 2015!”

* Samples to the upcoming JUPITER VI sophomore album, Movable Walls: www.reverbnation.com/roxxrecords

Look for Movable Walls to be released on December 16, 2014 on Roxx Records. 

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

BLACK FATE - “Lines In The Sand” lyric video released:
Press Release / The melodic metal band BLACK FATE just released a lyric video for "Lines in the Sand", the first single from their up-coming album Between Visions & Lies. The single is also released digitally and can be purchased at iTunes, Amazon etc.

Between Visions & Lies will be released on November 28th in Europe and on December 2nd in North America through Ulterium Records.

Led by the incredible vocals from Vasilis Georgiou and the technical playing from guitarist Gus Drax, BLACK FATE will surely gain attention in the scene with their new album Between Visions & Lies that could be described like a mix between KAMELOT, IRON MAIDEN, DREAM THEATER and CONCEPTION.

Erik Tordsson (ANTESTOR, END OF SEPTEMBER) mastered the album at Solid Mix Studios.

Between Visions & Lies is available for pre-ordering at the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com

Between Visions & Lies track listing:

1. "Rhyme Of A False Orchestra"
2. "Lines In The Sand"
3. "The Game Of Illusion"
4. "Into The Night"
5. "In Your Eyes"
6. "Call Of The Wild"
7. "State Of Conformity"
8. "Without Saying A Word"
9. "Perfect Crime"
10. "Weight Of The World"
11. "In Fear"

BLACK FATE line up:

Vasilis Georgiou - Vocals
Gus Drax - Guitars
Nikos Tsintzilonis - Drums
Vasilis Liakos - Bass

BLACK FATE online: www.facebook.com/blackfategreece

SWEET & LYNCH - Only To Rise track listing revealed:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / SWEET & LYNCH - the new band featuring guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER, legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB), bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and drummer Brian Tichy (S.U.N., WHITESNAKE) - will release its debut album, Only To Rise, on January 27, 2015 via Frontiers Music srl. The CD was produced by Sweet, who also helmed the last STRYPER album, No More Hell To Pay.

Only To Rise track listing:

1. “The Wish”
2. “Dying Rose”
3. “Love Stays”
4. “Time Will Tell”
5. “Rescue Me”
6. “Me Without You”
7. “Recover”
8. “Divine”
9. “September”
10. “Strength In Numbers”
11. “Hero-Zero”
12. “Only To Rise”

Sweet told Guitar International about SWEET & LYNCH: "It was the brainchild of Serafino Perugino at Frontiers Records. He asked me to basically sing on this record and then I suggested producing it. I co-wrote the songs with George. I called Brian Tichy and James Lomenzo to put the band together. It's an incredible combination of classic '70s and '80s. You will hear some flavors of JOURNEY, BAD COMPANY, DOKKEN, VAN HALEN and STRYPER."

He added: "I love this CD. I'm super excited for people to hear this CD. I'm so proud of it. James and Brian are amazing musicians. They tore it up. The drums and bass are just as impressive as the guitars. Everybody really delivered… The musicianship level on this is top notch. It sounds as if we were all in the stuff playing together and we were not. Basically, George wrote some riffs about a minute to a minute and a half long. I wrote lyrics and melodies then arranged them. I cut and pasted them together in the studio. Then Brian and James came out and tracked the drums and bass, as well as some rhythm stuff. We then sent it to George to add the guitars."

Asked if there will be any live dates in support of the album, Sweet said: "We are one million percent sure there will be a tour."

Frontiers Records online: www.frontiers.it/home

SWEET & LYNCH online: www.facebook.com/SweetLynch

NEWS BRIEFS

* IMPELLITTERI update on making of new album, Time Machine (November 6, 2014): “I am blown away by how great my band is playing on this new record! We are in the midst of making one bad a** record that will please the IMPELLITTERI fans all over the world. Drummer Jon Dette and bassist James Pulli are killing it. I am having more fun than ever shredding on this record, and the riffs, solos, and vocals sound like we are possessed by a higher power. I think the fans are going to love this new record. Back to the studio I go to tear it up on my guitar!”

* Guitarist Bill Menchen (THE SEVENTH POWER, REDEEMER, MENCHEN) is at work a new project under the name BLUE METAL TRANCE.  More details as they become available.

* MILLENNIAL REIGN signed with a reputable European label for the release of its next album, The God Particle.  The group hopes to set a release date of early 2015. Two new songs off the upcoming album, “Millennial Reign” and “Not On My Own”, can be streamed at: www.reverbnation.com/millennialreign7

* STRYPER to begin work on next album (as posted by vocalist Michael Sweet at Facebook - November 12, 2014): “I'm in writing mode for the new Stryper album. We start pre-production mid January & we begin tracking on 2/1! New album 2015!”

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

DELIVERANCE front man announces sophomore JUPITER VI album:
Press Release / The year was 2005 and founder and brainchild of speed metal band DELIVERANCE Jimmy P Brown II was approached by the owner of PyschoAcoustix Records. He asked Jimmy if he could make an album along the lines of David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust or something along those lines of inventing a character and creating a record to go with this concept. The question intrigued Jimmy, especially since he has always had a tremendous amount of love and respect for the music of Bowie, so he agreed to think about it.

Having no idea what or how to go about it, Jimmy then created the idea of JUPITER VI. A band that in a science fiction setting would be sent from Earth to the planet Mars to find notoriety, fame and acceptance. He loosely based the story of JUPITER VI on his experience in the Christian Music Industry with the band DELIVERANCE. The result was Back From Mars, which was a record that was a throwback to 70’s Glam Rock, while retaining a slew of influence from that time frame. Back From Mars was well received and the project grew from a project to an actual band, performing a few shows over the next year after its release. But, as in the story of JUPITER VI, they vanished as quickly as they appeared. Until…

2014 marked a year of significant change for Jimmy. He began writing a conceptual piece based on his experience in the work force and the travels he had experienced. This time, not wanting to create a quirky, kitsch style album, he began to draw from his influences growing up, and cultivated a story of desperation, decent into darkness and madness and ultimately redemption.

He’s aptly titled this new body of music mOVEABLE wALLS. The storyline takes you on a journey of being drawn into the corporate world, the gratification, the loneliness, the depression and the will of one man to claw his way out to find love, happiness and redemption once again. It’s a psychological metaphor for the walls we put up emotionally that fortify over years of ignoring what a human being can become if they allow themselves to be overcome by the lust for money, power and greed.

This musical offering shows an evolution for Brown and is quite possibly his most accomplished and ambitious work to date. Unlike Back From Mars in which Jimmy played all instrumentation, he recruited the extraordinarily talented Jeff Ceyba. Jeff served as musical director for the live band incarnation of JUPITER VI when the band became a live entity. Ceyba, being no stranger to the industry, and having an impressive musical resume was excited to work with Brown on this project. He refers to the music as “celestial and meaningful”!

There’s Pop Music, there’s Rock Music, and there’s JUPITER VI! You are not going to want to miss this so jump on board and get ready for the ride!

mOVEABLE wALLS is set to be released on ROXX RECORDS on December 16, 2014, just in time for Christmas and this release promises not to disappoint. Even better those that get in on the special pre order can also get a completely separate Limited Edition bonus disc EP entitled Covered Stars and Undiscovered Planets.

mOVEABLE wALLS track listing:

1. "Sleepless End Pt. I-IV" (19:54)
2. "Wasting Away" (06:53)
3. "Running" (05:40)
4. "Face In The Sky" (03:42)
5. "A Message From Home Pt. I" (12:16)

JUPITER VI line up:

Jimmy Brown as: PETER BRAUN - Lead Vocals, Guitars and Strings
Brian Khairullah as: HELMUT STAGEL - Guitars, and Backing Vocals
Trevor Shannon as: REMEDIOS INNOCENTES - Bass 
Mike Reed as: SPIRIOS FILIOS - Drums and Percussion
Tiberius Ahan as: DARBY FLOWERS - Keys and Synthesizers

Style: Ethereal Rock / Progressive Rock / Dramatic / Emotionally Driven Music / Pink Floyd

mOVEABLE wALLS can be pre-ordered at: http://roxxrecords.storenvy.com

JUPITER VI online: www.facebook.com/jupiterviroxx

 

INTERVIEWS

New EMPIRE 21 interview online:
The Metal Resource conducted a recent online interview with the members of EMPIRE 21, who go into detail about the group’s history, its musical background and soon to be released self-titled debut album.  Following is an excerpt:

Who writes the music and lyrics? How do you get in the mood for writing music? And which bands or situations have inspired you to write music and lyrics?
-CJ: I wrote most of this album, both music and lyrics, myself. Tobias wrote the song “Would You”, though. After all those years doing this I know myself pretty well, so I said to my bandmates that I have a certain vision as far as musical direction. I knew that if the direction would head in the complete opposite direction of my personal taste, I wouldn’t be able to mobilize the energy needed to keep doing this for an extended period of time. Now that we’re heading this certain direction, I’m all ears as far as ideas for future material that is somewhat compatible with our sound. Next album will probably be more of a “group effort”.

Read full interview: HERE

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

SWEET & LYNCH - Only To Rise details revealed:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / SWEET & LYNCH - the new band featuring guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER, legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB), bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and drummer Brian Tichy (S.U.N., WHITESNAKE) - will release its debut album, "Only To Rise", on January 27, 2015 via Frontiers Music SRL.

Sweet told Guitar International about SWEET & LYNCH: "It was the brainchild of Serafino Perugino at Frontiers Records. He asked me to basically sing on this record and then I suggested producing it. I co-wrote the songs with George. I called Brian Tichy and James Lomenzo to put the band together. It's an incredible combination of classic '70s and '80s. You will hear some flavors of JOURNEY, BAD COMPANY, DOKKEN, VAN HALEN and STRYPER."

He added: "I love this CD. I'm super excited for people to hear this CD. I'm so proud of it. James and Brian are amazing musicians. They tore it up. The drums and bass are just as impressive as the guitars. Everybody really delivered… The musicianship level on this is top notch. It sounds as if we were all in the stuff playing together and we were not. Basically, George wrote some riffs about a minute to a minute and a half long. I wrote lyrics and melodies then arranged them. I cut and pasted them together in the studio. Then Brian and James came out and tracked the drums and bass, as well as some rhythm stuff. We then sent it to George to add the guitars."

Asked if there will be any live dates in support of the album, Sweet said: "We are one million percent sure there will be a tour."

SWEET & LYNCH recently finished filming two videos and an EPK (Electronic Press Kit).

Frontiers Records online: www.frontiers.it/home

SWEET & LYNCH online: www.facebook.com/SweetLynch

Roxx Records & Christian Metal Distro announce Best Of 2014 compilation:
Press Release / A very special compilation will be coming your way exclusively from Roxx Records and Christian Metal Distro this Holiday Season! 18 tracks featuring the best from Roxx Records and some of the best selling indie releases we featured this year at Christian Metal Distro!

Stay Tuned for full details on how you can get your digital or Limited Edition CD copy exclusively at this years upcoming 'Unblack Friday' holiday weekend sale, which will last all the way through Cyber Monday!

Best Of 2014 track listing:

Best of Roxx Records 2014 Releases:

1. Jupiter VI - “Face In The Sky”
2. Vengeance Rising - “Bishop Of Souls”
3. Deliverance – “Stay of Execution”
4. Ultimatum - “Scattered’ (Body Parts)”
5. Deliverance - “Slay the Wicked”
6. Pylon - “Saligia”
7. Taker - “Open Your Heart”

Best of the indies / Christian Metal Distro 2014 Best Sellers:

8. Barren Cross - “White Washed Love” (Special exclusive edit)
9. The Brave - “The Killing Floor”
10. Saint - “We All Stand”
11. GX Project - “Train Wreck”
12. Freakings - “Hate In Our Veins”
13. Letter 7 - “Archangel”
14. Faithbomb - “So Far Away”
15. Darrell Mansfield - “Thunder and Lightning” (Re-master)
16. Promise Land - “Harmony in Ruins”
17. Ordained Fate - “Minions of the Adversary”
18. Wretched Graverobber – “Merry Xmas Everybody” (Holiday bonus track)

Roxx Records & Christian Metal Distro online: www.roxxproductions.com & http://christianmetaldistro.storenvy.com

NEWS BRIEFS

* Commentary from Roxx Records regarding Movable Walls, the upcoming sophomore release from JUPITER VI: “It is a strong departure (from the groups 2006 debut Back From Mars).  It is definitely NOT Deliverance, this is actually going to be great for Pink Floyd fans, it sounds just like Floyd!”

JUPITER VI offered an update as well (Facebook - October 28, 2014): "We are working on a special Limited Edition version with Roxx to include a bonus disc for the first 100 orders only.  The bonus disc will be titled Covered Stars And Undiscovered Planets, which will feature some very cool cover song interpretations and a few unreleased, recently found JVI tunes! Looks like they want to do a Limited Edition signature JPB guitar pick for the deluxe version! Stay Tuned, they said they will only be doing 100 of those!"

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

HARMONY - “The Window Of My Soul” lyric video released:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY just released a lyric video for "The Window of My Soul", the first single from their up-coming album Theatre Of Redemption. The single is also released digitally and can be purchased at iTunes, Amazon etc.

Theatre Of Redemption will be released on November 28, 2014 in Europe and on December 2, 2014 in North America through Ulterium Records.

Theatre Of Redemption features Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON, HEED)on vocals on all tracks. The album was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (AT THE GATES, IN FLAMES, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Thomas "Plec" Johansson (SCAR SYMMETRY, WATAIN).

The strong and diverse songs, the emotional and technical guitar playing by Markus Sigfridsson and the fantastic vocals provided by Daniel Heiman brings HARMONY up to the same level as the biggest bands in the melodic metal genre. Just listen and you will see. Follow HARMONY into the Theatre Of Redemption…

All physical editions of Theatre Of Redemption as well as three different t-shirt designs are available for pre-ordering at the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com

Theatre Of Redemption track listing:

1. “The Window Of My Soul”
2. “Inhale”
3. “Crown Me King”
4. “Son Of The Morning”
5. “What If”
6. “Theatre Of Redemption”
7. “Bloodbound”
8. “You Are”
9. “Hands Of Time”
10. “In Search Of”

HARMONY line up:

Daniel Heiman - Guest Lead Vocals
Markus Sigfridsson - Guitars, Voices, Additional Keyboards & Programming
John Svensson - Keyboards
Raphael Dafras - Bass
Tobias Enbert - Drums

HARMONY released their debut album Dreaming Awake through Massacre Records in 2003 that in addition to founding members Markus Sigfridsson (DARKWATER, 7 DAYS) and Tobias Enbert (DARKWATER, EMPIRE 21) also featured Henrik Båth and Magnus Holmberg from DARKWATER as well as Andreas Passmark (ROYAL HUNT, WORK OF ART, W.E.T., NARNIA).

The follow-up album Chapter II: Aftermath was released in 2008 through Ulterium Records. Kristoffer Gildenlöw (ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) performed all bass on the album, and Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON) performed guest vocals on the track "Inner Peace".

HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden

NEWS BRIEFS

* JUPITER VI, the theatrical rock project of DELIVERANCE front man Jimmy Brown, has signed with Roxx Records for its sophomore album Movable Walls.  Look for a release by the end of the year.  The full-length JUPITER VI debut Back From Mars came out on Retroactive Records in 2006. 

* “Sunrise In Rio”, acoustic piece by guitarist Rex Carroll of KING JAMES: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AW-KHVaK4js

“Sunrise In Rio” made its initial appearance on the self-titled KING JAMES debut CD from 1994.

* SHINING FORCE, By The Blood new album update (Facebook - October 22, 2014): “We are still working on (our next) CD By The Blood (and) hope to have it completed by the end of the year. We are still practicing when we can (but) several obstacles in our way right now. The Enemy is always attacking us, but we stand firm on the Word of God and attack back. We lay hands on the sick, we preach the Gospel to the people who are in need, and we play our music to send out a message. Keep us in your prayers as we go into the worst places to preach the Gospel. God is with us and the Holy Spirit always shows up. Jesus is our focus and winning souls is our goal. We are setting up (a tour of) Texas.  If you would like us to visit your town or church while we are doing our Texas tour, contact us here through Facebook or at our website: www.facebook.com/shiningforceband & www.shiningforceband.org

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

ADRIANGALE compilation on the way, Final Piece - The Best Of:
Press Release / Everyone have been asking: When will ADRIANGALE Final Piece - The Best Of be coming out?  Well the wait is nearly over folks.  With a release date of November 25, 2014, ADRIANGALE Final Piece - The Best Of will be out just in time for the holidays!

Wait there's more people. We don't want to short change the loyal ADRIANGALE fan base with some generic convenience store best of CD. NO! What we are going to do is throw in EVERYTHING and then some.

This release will be a double CD!  Disc 1 will have songs from all five of the group’s studio releases.  Disc 2 will contain two newly recorded tracks, along with seven other tracks consisting of B cuts, rarities and unreleased material!

Final Piece - The Best Of is the ultimate collection for any ADRIANGALE fan!

Pre-order information from the bands label, Kivel Records, is coming soon.

ADRIANGALE released its sixth studio album, Defiance, on October 2, 2014 also on Kivel Records. 

Kivel Records online: www.facebook.com/Kivelrecords

ADRIANGALE online: www.facebook.com/pages/Adriangale

CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE - Get The Hell Out details revealed:
Press Release / Poteau, Oklahoma based hair metal outfit CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE independently released its full-length debut Get The Hell Out on September 19, 2014.

According to the group, the Oz Fox (Stryper) produced album delivers “high intensity in your face metal” that can be compared to “an out of control freight train coming at you a million miles an hour”.  CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE, listing its influences as STRYPER, BLOODGOOD, DISCIPLE, W.A.S.P., SKIDROW, RATT and MOTLEY CRUE, are “sold out Christians devoted to Jesus Christ” who “will play anywhere from a bar to a church" and that “offer hope to a hurting world in the form of face melting rock 'n roll.”

In the words of CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE: “Today's world is full of so much hate, lies & deceit. We offer love and hope through rock 'n roll.”

The name CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE is based upon Isaiah 40:18: To whom then will ye liken God? Or what likeness will you compare unto him?  Further detail from the group: “We feel no matter how good of Christians we are, we would never be more than a Chaotic Resemblance of Christ.”

Get The Hell Out track listing:

1. “Invade”
2. “Get The Hell Out”
3. “Son of Man”
4. “Candy Land”
5. “Star”
6. “Don’t Walk Alone”
7. “The Cost”
8. “Super Hero”
9. “Greatest Show Alive”
10. “Sin”
11. “War Paint”

CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE line up:

Rexx Roxx - Lead Vocals
L/A Ellis – Guitars
Stevie Shea - Bass
Zak Fury – Drums

CHAOTIC RESEMBLANCE online: www.chaoticresemblance.com/index & www.facebook.com/pages/Chaotic-Resemblance

NEWS BRIEFS

* Self titled debut EMPIRE 21 album teaser: www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsMKG1jOp7c

Empire 21 will be released on November 28, 2014 in Europe and December 2, 2014 in North America.

* “The Window Of My Soul”, the first single from the upcoming HARMONY album Theatre Of Redemption, will be released at the end of next week.  Look for the album to come out on November 28, 2014 in Europe and December 2, 2014 in North America.

* JACOBS DREAM studio update (Facebook - October 14, 2014): “We're going to put 2 studios to use to speed up the recording process. Guitars are sounding like JD guitars, most of the bass tracks are done and the drums and vocals are shaping up as well. We think you're really going to like it!”

The group is currently at work on its next album entitled Where Vultures Gather.

 

FEATURED REVIEWS

HALCYON WAY - Conquer
Atlanta, Georgia based Halcyon Way aims to blur the line further between pure aggression and immediate accessibility.  Read Full Review >>

LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE - The Vow
When you read “Liberty N’ Justice”, you probably think of “all star projects”, “special guest musicians” and the like.  You don’t think in terms of a band with the same steady line-up.  That changes now. Read Full Review >>

NEAL MORSE - Songs From November
Rather, what we have in Songs From November is a joining of catchy contemporary pop and acoustic rock with touches of classic rock and AOR.  The album ultimately succeeds on strength of songwriting, which leaves little doubt as to Morse’s abilities as a composer regardless of style, form or genre.  Read Full Review >>

SIGN OF JONAH - Sacrifice
Those that ‘wax nostalgic’ for the good old days of driving guitar riffs, heartfelt vocals, shuffling bass lines, gritty slide guitars, acoustic lacings and occasional Southern influences will find themselves a new home in Sign of Jonah and its August of 2014 full length debut Sacrifice.  Read Full Review >>

SOUND OF ETERNITY - Visions & Dreams
Musically, Visions & Dreams does not stray too far from the melodic rock direction of the groups first two albums.  The main difference is the heavier Sound Of Eternity interpretation of the Codigo Eterno material, yielding a guitar sound rooted in that much more edge and bite.  Read Full Review >>

SUPERNAL ENDGAME - Touch The Sky - Volume II
In a way, Supernal Endgame and its 10T Records summer of 2014 sophomore album Touch The Sky - Volume II represents a page from the 70’s progressive rock hymnal: Eschewing the verse-chorus-verse song structure common to popular music in favor of lengthy compositions (often in excess of ten minutes) characterized by complex time signatures and extended instrumental passages.  Read Full Review >>

TYKKÜS - Hystorykküs Maximüs
Another label of such note is Stone Groove Records, which in 2014 put out the consummate Tykküs compilation entitled Hystorykküks Maximüs.  Included along with the groups popular 2005 Ümlaut EP is the “Convince You Too” single, demos recorded in 1995 and 2007, the “Live” Clams & All Show” from 2004 and 1985 pre-Tykküs EP from Rizer.  Read Full Review >>

VENI DOMINE - Light
Any discussion involving Swedish doom metal, of course, would not be complete without mention of Veni Domine.  Forming in Sollentuna during the late eighties, the group recorded a trio of demos under the Seventh Seal moniker before permanently changing its name to Veni Domine - meaning “Come Lord” as taken from the last part of Revelation 22 - and releasing its full-length debut Fall Babylon Fall in 1992.  Read Full Review >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

EMPIRE 21 - Self-titled debut details revealed:
Press Release / Finally, the long awaited, self-titled debut album from the new Swedish hard rock/metal act EMPIRE 21 will be released on November 28, 2014 in Europe and December 2, 2014 in North America.  For fans of melodic heavy rock and for those of you who can't wait to consume a heavy dose of massive riffing by world class musicians - this album IS a must.

The members are all experienced from international bands, including NARNIA, DARKWATER, ROB ROCK, HARMONY and many more. The band was originally founded by drummer Tobias Enbert and singer GermánPascual, who were both part of the 2009 touring lineup of CJ Grimmark’s band NARNIA. When CJ decided to put NARNIA to rest, the idea of EMPIRE 21 was born. They eventually talked CJ into the project and recruited Andreas Ålöv and John Svensson for the bass and keyboards positions, respectively. During the recording of the album, EMPIRE 21 parted ways with GermánPascual who was subsequently replaced by singer Ricard Hulteke.

Ricard, being one of the best kept secrets in rock and the last piece finalizing the EMPIRE 21 puzzle, is likely to put a big smile on the faces of metal/rock fans around the world. His soulful and intense vocal performance on this album is certainly one of the best in the history of metal.

The tracks on the EMPIRE 21 album were all carefully written without any time pressure, resulting in no “fillers” whatsoever. It was of high importance to develop an organic yet powerful sound, which led EMPIRE 21 to hire mixing engineer Tobias Lindell (EUROPE, MUSTASCH, etc) and mastering engineer Thomas ”Plec” Johansson (SCAR SYMMETRY, AMMOTRACK, etc) to put their final touches on this production.  CJ Grimmark handled production duties. 

This album has great potential to reach a very wide audience thanks to its strong material and high musical energy. Even those who are not specifically into metal may still enjoy this album as it’s easy to get into, even at the first bite. Keep your eyes and ears open…and dig into EMPIRE 21!

The album can be pre-ordered at the bands website: www.empire21.se

Empire 21 track listing:

1. “When You're Falling”
2. “I Can't”
3. “All Is Lost”
4. “Traveler”
5. “Empire 21”
6. “100 Nights”
7. “Heard It All”
8. “This Is My Story”
9. “Calling”
10. “Would You”
11. “No Matter The Winds Of Change”

EMPIRE 21 line-up:

Ricard Hulteke - Lead Vocals
CJ Grimmark (NARNIA, ROB ROCK) - Guitars
John Svensson (HARMONY) - Keyboards
Andreas Ålöv - Bass
Tobias Enbert (DARKWATER, HARMONY) - Drums

EMPIRE 21 online: www.empire21.se & www.facebook.com/empire21.se

Thoughts from BARREN CROSS bassist Jim LaVerde regarding STYRYPER:
As posted at the group's Facebook page (October 4, 2014):

“What can I say that has not been said? I will give you my point of view as a fellow musician. Well back in the early 80s when Barren Cross was starting to get momentum, I was invited by some friends to see this group perform at the Music Machine somewhere in LA. Although the venue was not sold out, I sat back and watched the show from beginning to end. When it was over, I felt as if I was moved by the awesome presence of The Lord. Stryper went on from there and every show got bigger, the anointing of the Lord was stronger. What I witnessed was a great outpouring of Gods grace and power. I remember one performance in particular at Calvary chapel Downey. They had to perform twice because of the amount of people there to see them.

“Don't get me wrong, these guys were talented, but what over shadowed everything was the presence of The Lord everywhere they went. God used these guys to bring revival all over the world. People that would never set foot in a church were in church. Even when they played big secular venues, God’s presence was felt by everyone. Out of all that, the Sanctuary movement sprung up all over the world. Folks were receiving Christ turning there lives around.

“Barren Cross had several opportunities to play with these guys and what a treat that was. They were all very kind to us and taught us so much more then they will ever know. Stryper is a gift to all of us and they continue to this day to record and tour with the message of the cross. To this day I have not witnessed anything like it. Many of you reading this have been affected by this group through out the years. Micheal Bloodgood told me once how good Stryper is for all of us. May they continue on as long as they can. I don't know about u but I am so thankful these brothers came along and made such a difference for all of us. Please feel free to comment.”

BARREN CROSS commemorated their 30th anniversary by releasing their first new album in 18 years, Birth Pangs. Recorded live at the 2012 Elements Of Rock festival in Switzerland, Birth Pangs captures the entire BARREN CROSS performance in encompassing 18 songs and over an hour and a half of music.

The album, which reunites the original lineup of vocalist Michael Drive, guitarist Ray Parris, bassist Jim LaVerde and drummer Steve Whitaker, saw a digital download release on December 21, 2013.  The CD version to Birth Pangs came out on March 8, 2014.

BARREN CROSS online: www.barrencross.com & www.facebook.com/barrencross

NEWS BRIEFS

* “A World At War”, new video from ATKINS MAY PROJECT: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nq4IPRSIpyY

The song is taken from the groups recently released third album entitled Empire Of Destruction.

* Changes in the BIOGENESIS line up to report (as taken from the groups Facebook page - September 9, 2014): “Randy Walton and, Darin Moore have both left the band. However, Colin Glover from Coffin Birth Conspiracy has stepped in as our new bass player. Also we have brought back our original guitarist James Riggs and we will be announcing our new lead player soon. Good luck to Randy and Darin on their new endeavors. We shared some good years together on the stage.”

* DELIVERANCE unable to play Skull Fest (as announced by the band at its Facebook page - October 9, 2014): “To all our fans: we apologize deeply for those looking forward to our performance at Skull Fest 2014. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Deliverance will not be able to perform. This is not a reflection on Skull Fest, but is due to illness that has struck preventing the guys from being able to perform. With that said, Deliverance hopes to make this up to the fans by rescheduling a future performance in the near future. Thanks for your continued support”

* The release of the debut album from WORLDVIEW, The Chosen Few, has been delayed until 2015.  The album is currently in the process of being mixed.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

ADRIANGALE gets defiant:
Courtesy of www.melodicrock.com:

Press Release / After their triumphant return last year from a lengthy hiatus with the release of Sucker Punch! on Kivel Records and their celebrated appearance at Melodicrock Fest 3, ADRIANGALE is back, better than ever and maintaining forward momentum with their latest album Defiance, which will be released October 3, 2014 in conjunction with their appearance at Melodicrock Fest 4.

No strangers to the melodic rock genre, ADRIANGALE have built up a loyal following since their first album Feel The Fire in 2000, consistently presenting quality, memorable albums in a style which they can truly call their own. The chemistry and bond between lead vocalist Jamie Rowe, guitarist/principal songwriter Vic Rivera and guitarist Eddie Campbell is genuine and - more so than ever - this unity and strength is eminently present and assertive on Defiance.

As the leadoff single “Sometimes” has demonstrated, Defiance marks yet another forward and logical step in the evolution of ADRIANGALE’s sound. “We’ve always blended heaviness with melody” says Vic Rivera, “but this time around, we really wanted to further explore the heavier side of ourselves without losing the hooks we’ve come to be known for. It can be difficult to make significant forward movement without totally abandoning your past, but I was up for the challenge in crafting these songs to be the best, most honest version of ourselves while maintaining our identity - and I believe we were successful in capturing that and more on this album.”

A seamless combination of intense and heavy riffs, extremely melodic vocals, superb musicianship and stunning production, Defiance is undoubtedly ADRIANGALE’s finest moment to date and is destined to become a favorite of melodic rock lovers everywhere, appealing to fans of the band both old and new!

Order ADRIANGALE DEFIANCE now at www.kivelrecords.com, and become one of the DEFIANT. Be sure to catch them live at MelodicRock Fest (www.melodicrockfest.com) in Chicago on October 3, 2014!

The track “Sometimes” is available for streaming at: www.melodicrock.com/audio/Adriangale-Sometimes.mp3

Defiance track listing:

1. “Defiance”
2. “Yours 4 Ever”
3. “Back To You”
4. “What About Love”
5. “Fall”
6. “Sometimes”
8. “Fire”
9. “Last Of My Heart”
10. “Speed”

ADRIANGALE line up:

Jamie Rowe - Lead Vocals
Vic Rivera – Guitars, Drums, Bass & Vocals
Eddie Campbell - Guitars & Vocals

ADRIANGALE online: www.facebook.com/pages/Adriangale

ATKINS MAY PROJECT release third album, Empire Of Destruction:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

ATKINS MAY PROJECT, the band featuring original JUDAS PRIEST singer Al Atkins and Christian guitarist and music artist Paul May, released its third album, Empire Of Destruction, on September 29, 2014 via Gonzo Multimedia.

Like its predecessors, Empire Of Destruction comes once again straight out of the heart of "Black Country" in the United Kingdom, the "Home Of Metal". The album continues its classic rock theme with enough metal moments to melt your face off, yet features an abundance of imagination and class to intrigue even the most progressive of tastes.

Says Al: "From “A World At War” to “Whisper To The Wind”, it will take you on a journey of battle fields to somber tears..."

Adds Paul: "Our first album, Serpents Kiss, set the bench mark for the second, Valley Of Shadows, a mature classic metal affair, that in turn set a much higher new bench mark for Empire Of Destruction, which has evolved into something I believe will stand the test of time, an to be album to proud of.”

The first 1,000 CDs comes with a limited edition DVD.

Empire Of Destruction track listing:

CD

1. “Dog Eat Dog”
2. “Whisper To The Wind”
3. “A World At War”
4. “The Midas Touch”
5. “Here Comes The Rain”
6. “Darkness Within”
7. “Reckless Child”
8. “Paranoia”

DVD

1. “Welcome To The Nightmare”
2. “Fight”
3. “The Shallowing” (unplugged)
4. “The Darkness Within”
5. “Enslaved To Love”
6. Interview with Paul May and Al Atkins

A "shortened" version of the song "Here Comes The Rain" can be streamed above.

ATKINS MAY PROJECT's first album, Serpent's Kiss, was released in 2011 via Gonzo Multimedia. The follow-up effort, Valley Of Shadows, came out in 2012 (also on Gonzo Multimedia).

ATKINS MAY PROJECT online: www.atkinsmayproject.com & www.facebook.com/pages/Atkins-May-Project-Official

HARMONY - Theatre Of Redemption details revealed:
Press Release / Theatre of Redemption, the up-coming album from the Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY, will be released on November 28, 2014 in Europe and on December 2, 2014 in North America through Ulterium Records. The opening track "The Window of My Soul" will be released as a digital single late October.

The album will be released in the following formats:

- Regular CD edition
- Black wooden box edition (Limited to 500 hand-numbered copies. Includes the CD and booklet, a HARMONY guitar pick, a sticker, a postcard and an exclusive "The History of Harmony" 20-page booklet)
- Vinyl edition (Limited to 500 copies. Includes insert with lyrics)
- Digital edition

Theatre Of Redemption features Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON, HEED) on vocals on all tracks. The album was mixed by Fredrik Nordström and Henrik Udd at Studio Fredman (AT THE GATES, IN FLAM,ES, HAMMERFALL) and mastered by Thomas "Plec" Johansson (SCAR SYMMETRY, WATAIN).

The strong and diverse songs, the emotional and technical guitar playing by Markus Sigfridsson and the fantastic vocals provided by Daniel Heiman brings HARMONY up to the same level as the biggest bands in the melodic metal genre. Just listen and you will see. Follow HARMONY into the Theatre Of Redemption…

All physical editions of Theatre Of Redemption as well as three different t-shirt designs are available for pre-ordering at the Ulterium Records Store: www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com

Theatre Of Redemption track listing:

1. “The Window Of My Soul”
2. “Inhale”
3. “Crown Me King”
4. “Son Of The Morning”
5. “What If”
6. “Theatre Of Redemption”
7. “Bloodbound”
8. “You Are”
9. “Hands Of Time”
10. “In Search Of”

HARMONY line up:

Daniel Heiman - Guest Lead Vocals
Markus Sigfridsson - Guitars, Voices, Additional Keyboards & Programming
John Svensson - Keyboards
Raphael Dafras - Bass
Tobias Enbert - Drums

HARMONY released their debut album Dreaming Awake through Massacre Records in 2003 that in addition to founding members Markus Sigfridsson (DARKWATER, 7 DAYS) and Tobias Enbert (DARKWATER, EMPIRE 21) also featured Henrik Båth and Magnus Holmberg from DARKWATER as well as Andreas Passmark (ROYAL HUNT, WORK OF ART, W.E.T., NARNIA).

The follow-up album Chapter II: Aftermath was released in 2008 through Ulterium Records. Kristoffer Gildenlöw (ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) performed all bass on the album, and Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON) performed guest vocals on the track "Inner Peace".

HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden

NEWS BRIEFS

* IMAGES OF EDEN is at work on its next album, untitled at the time of this writing.  According to founding member and vocalist Gordon Tittsworth, the album will be much more Christian lyrically.

* Salem, Oregon based SAINT will release its new album, Broad Is The Gate, on November 1, 2014.  The album finds new SAINT member’s vocalist Phyll Miller and guitarist Matthew P. Smith making their debut.  A Broad Is The Gate video trailer can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpErkBiCzQ4

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

BLACK FATE - Between Visions & Lies details revealed:
Press Release / Between Visions & Lies, the up-coming album from the Greek melodic metal band BLACK FATE, will be released on November 28, 2014 in Europe and December 2, 2014 in North America through Ulterium Records.

Led by the incredible vocals from Vasilis Georgiou and technical playing from guitarist Gus Drax, BLACK FATE will surely gain attention in the scene with their new album Between Visions & Lies, which could be described as a mix between KAMELOT, IRON MAIDEN, DREAM THEATER and CONCEPTION.

Erik Tordsson (ANTESTOR, END OF SEPTEMBER) mastered the album at Solid Mix Studios.

Check out the second Between Visions & Lies teaser at YouTube here: http://youtu.be/b17QsGwCtuM

The album is available for pre-ordering at the Ulterium Records Store: http://www.ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com

Between Visions & Lies track listing:

1. "Rhyme Of A False Orchestra"
2. "Lines In The Sand"
3. "The Game Of Illusion"
4. "Into The Night"
5. "In Your Eyes"
6. "Call Of The Wild"
7. "State Of Conformity"
8. "Without Saying A Word"
9. "Perfect Crime"
10. "Weight Of The World"
11. "In Fear"

BLACK FATE line up:

Vasilis Georgiou - Vocals
Gus Drax - Guitars
Nikos Tsintzilonis - Drums
Vasilis Liakos - Bass

BLACK FATE online: www.facebook.com/blackfategreece

New album from Mike Florio, Reconcile:
As taken from the artists press material:

“Not long after my first album, Arisen, was out the door in January 2006, my musical outlook started to change. Response to the album was very positive and encouraging; and suddenly I was making a lot of new connections. It seemed that new creative opportunities were certain to come my way, and this was certainly an exciting prospect which I had hoped for. I believe my fellow studio mates Bill Thomas (guitars), Dave Bailey (bass) and Steve Golden (drums) were also enjoying the situation, as they were all willing to continue recording more songs. So, even though making my first album had been a long and trying journey, I gauged – rather optimistically - that I might actually have enough fuel left in the tank for one more trip. And so, the Reconcile project began.

“The recording process got off to a nice head start, as three songs - “Letter From Babylon”, “Only One Way”, and “How Will You Know?” - were mostly written and in the early production stages from being candidates for Arisen. So I started on finishing those off first. However, by 2007 I became involved in what I anticipated would be a promising collaboration with another artist, so I put the album on the back burner for a while. Other interruptions came and went, but over the next couple of years I did find enough time to write “The Wise Man”, followed by “I Promise”, as well as the two “Seeds Of The Earth” songs. That left me with one more slot I wanted to fill. I considered a few of my older songs but nothing really fit. I realized I would need to get to work and write something new, and eventually the title track, “Reconcile”, was completed in 2009.

“Feeling rather proud of myself at this point, I suppose; I basically did absolutely nothing on the album for the better part of two more years, once again turning my attention toward other projects. Then, one fateful day I let my good friend Eddie Jerlin hear some of the languishing work in progress. His enthusiastic reaction inspired me to pick up where I left off, which meant beginning the final - and most dreaded - phase of transforming my rough sketches into finished pieces of music.

“Anyway, to condense a long story, three more busy years went by during which I actually released a compilation album (Artifacts Volume 1), finished half of another (what will be Volume 2, I presume), and dabbled in yet some more extra-curricular musical activities; all the while working on Reconcile in between. When I finally completed it in 2014, over eight years had gone by. And this time I can definitely say that the tank is empty.”

Mike Florio is a Westchester County, New York based vocalist and keyboardist that released his debut solo album, Arisen, in 2006.  The Angelic Warlord review (85%) described Arisen as “progressive rock with symphonic touches all the while reflecting an occasional classic rock or AOR leaning”.  The album further brings “a compelling blend of Kansas and Styx” but also “features enough guitar driven momentum to attract those into Shadow Gallery and Dream Theater as well.”

The track “The Wise Man” is available for streaming at: https://soundcloud.com/massdream/the-wise-man

Reconcile track listing:

1. “Seeds Of The Earth”
2. “Reconcile”
3. “Letter From Babylon”
4. “The Wise Man”
5. “I Promise”
6. “Only One Way”
7. “How Will You Know?”
8. “Seeds of the Earth II”

Mike Florio online: www.massdream.com

SAINT - Warriors Of The Son 04 re-issued on Retroactive Records:
Press Release / The original SAINT Warriors Of The Son EP was recorded in 1984 on an 8-track recorder. At the time there wasn’t much Christian metal around, so despite the very thin production, the album saw plenty of spin time on Christian metal head turntables due to the fact that the songs were still good. However, once the band’s follow-up albums Time’s End (1986) and Too Late For Living (198) were released, the glaring production issues of Warriors… became more apparent.

In 2004, SAINT decided to re-record Warriors Of The Son as a sort of celebration of their 20th anniversary as a band. With new cover artwork, the new and improved recording with the addition of two songs not previously available became a necessity for long time SAINT fans. The band stayed true to the original songs for the most part, and vocalist Josh Kramer shows he still had “it” after all those years. These familiar songs sound great with modern heavy production. The two new tracks, “Reaper” and “Killers and the Destroyers”, were written by bassist Richard Lynch and guitarist John Mahan in the very early 80’s, and round out the album quite nicely.

This 2014 30th Anniversary Edition is a reissue of the 2004 re-recorded Warriors of the Son - digitally re-mastered by J. Powell at Steinhaus, and displaying extravagant new artwork provided by Gregory Hays.

“You now have a vastly superior version of this classic album, worthy of repeated listens!” - Adapted from Scott Waters / NoLifeTilMetal.com

Warriors Of The Son 04 track-listing:

1. “Plan II”
2. “Legions Of The Dead”
3. “Abyss”
4. “Warriors Of The Son”
5. “Vicars Of Fate”
6. “Time’s Wasting”
7. “Killers And Destroyers”
8. “The Reaper”

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

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

NEWS BRIEFS

* LETTERS TO THE BLIND is the new band of vocalist Chaz Bond: www.reverbnation.com/letterstotheblind

Bond is best known for his work in BIOGENESIS (current vocalist) and JACOBS DREAM (former vocalist).

* “Timeless Machine” is a new fusion-jam instrumental track from Italy’s SACREDFICE: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd7ovQssPUQ

* New music from PASTOR BRAD: “Hey guys, I'm excited to share these new songs with you!  I'm doing things a little differently on this one- instead of finishing an album and releasing it all at once, I'm having fun letting one song (or in this case 2) out at a time.

Song 1: “Rocky” - If you like the movies, I think you'll enjoy this hard-rock trip down memory lane!

Song 2: “Holy Lynch” - An instrumental shredder tribute to George Lynch, featuring yours truly on solos at the beginning and end with an outstanding guest appearance in the middle from my friend Mario Barisic!”

Both songs are available for streaming at: http://pastorbradrocks.com/album/lemonade

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

SWEET / LYNCH - Lyric video for “September”:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / The official lyric video for the song "September" from SWEET/LYNCH - the new band featuring guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER, legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB), bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and drummer Brian Tichy (S.U.N., WHITESNAKE) - can be seen above. The track, a tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York, will be included on SWEET/LYNCH's debut album, which will be released in early 2015 via Frontiers.

Sweet told Guitar International about SWEET/LYNCH: "It was the brainchild of Serafino Perugino at Frontiers Records. He asked me to basically sing on this record and then I suggested producing it. I co-wrote the songs with George. I called Brian Tichy and James Lomenzo to put the band together. It's an incredible combination of classic '70s and '80s. You will hear some flavors of JOURNEY, BAD COMPANY, DOKKEN, VAN HALEN and STRYPER."

He added: "I love this CD. I'm super excited for people to hear this CD. I'm so proud of it.

"James and Brian are amazing musicians. They tore it up. The drums and bass are just as impressive as the guitars. Everybody really delivered… The musicianship level on this is top notch. It sounds as if we were all in the stuff playing together and we were not. Basically, George wrote some riffs about a minute to a minute and a half long. I wrote lyrics and melodies then arranged them. I cut and pasted them together in the studio. Then Brian and James came out and tracked the drums and bass, as well as some rhythm stuff. We then sent it to George to add the guitars."

Asked if there will be any live dates in support of the album, Sweet said: "We are one million percent sure there will be a tour."

SWEET/LYNCH recently finished filming two videos and an EPK (Electronic Press Kit).

DELIVERANCE & VENGEANCE RISING re-issues on Roxx Productions:
Press Release / Roxx Records is very proud to announce not one but two long out of print titles that we will be given that special treatment of re-mastering, expanding and reissuing for all you Christian Metal fans out there in a one-time Limited Edition CD pressing of only 300 copies each!

Up first is the classic fourth and final title from Christian thrash legends VENGEANCE RISING! The band’s first three titles (Human Sacrifice, Once Dead & Destruction Comes) have already been given that special re-master and reissue treatment back in 2010, but this one has yet to see the light of day with a proper re-master and reissue. Now Roxx Records has procured the licensing from Intense Records and is very proud to say we will finish the series off with this very special pressing!

Released Upon The Earth was the bands fourth and final release before they would call it a day and if you think you have heard this release before, guess again! This re-master, and the next title, are both being completely re-mastered by Sid Garcia (DELIVERANCE, ULTIMATUM & more) and they both sound amazing! In addition to all of the original tracks we have included some rare long lost radio interviews featuring George Ochoa, Johnny Vasquez and Daniel Cordova that were recorded in Jacksonville Florida during the Released Upon The Earth tour. This is one Limited Edition collectible that every VENGEANCE RISING fan needs to add to their collection before they are gone!

Up next also happens to be the fourth album and release from this classic Christian thrash band, DELIVERANCE!  Stay Of Execution is also being given the special Roxx Records re-master treatment from Sid Garcia and this is the ONLY DELIVERANCE title that has not been reissued, repressed or re-mastered since its original initial pressing from 1992 on Intense Records and we have procured the rights to finally make this one a reality as well!  It will also be reissued in a one-time Limited Edition pressing!

Stay Of Execution captures the band in a new era at this time and with a significant line-up change. Exiting for this album would be George Ochoa and entering in as the next full time guitarist for the mighty ‘D’ would be none other than Michael Phillips. Also of importance to this era was the fact that this was the first of three albums produced by Terry Taylor with the help of Gene Eugene, both heavy influences of DELIVERANCE founder and leader Jimmy Brown. Again, you have not heard this album until you have heard this completely re-mastered and expanded edition.

This is a truly special edition of Stay Of Execution as the additional bonus track we have captured here for this release was just recorded in 2014 especially for this reissue and it sounds amazing. Recently Jimmy Brown and George Ochoa (DELIVERANCE, VENGENACE RISING, WORLDVIEW) would reunite for a very special radio show called Frontline Rewind, (http://frontlinerecords.us/rewind) which features interviews and music from many of the classic artists that were signed to Frontline Records and Intense Records. This reunion would spark the guys to want to work together again for the first time in over 20 years! As a result, we got a brand new recording of the classic track “What A Joke” completely redone and sounding amazing, additionally the guys have just scheduled a special appearance at this year’s Skullfest in Nebraska this October (www.skullfest.net).

Also included are two more previously unreleased tracks that have never been appeared on a DELIVERANCE album: We also will be including the 25th Anniversary recordings of the classic tracks “Flesh And Blood” and “In U” both featuring Michael Phillips (DELIVERANCE, THE SACRIFICED, JOIN THE DEAD) on guitar.

There you have it: Two classic reissues coming November 11, 2014 from Roxx Records. Pre-orders are up now and the first 100 of each title will come with a very special limited edition promotional photo taken from the specific era of each of these classic band line ups. This special print will be signed by many of the artists that attributed to these classic releases. So get in on the pre order early and get one or both of these classic promotional photos to add to your personal collection before they are gone!

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

METATRONE signs with Rockshots Music Management:
Press Release / Rockshots are pleased to announce the signing of the Catania, Italy based Christian metal band METATRONE.  With its name standing for “God is since now and forever”, METATRONE is one of the most talented and skilled bands in the Christian metal scene. They play a powerful form of power/progressive metal deeply inspired by a Christian Catholic worldview.  The group has released two full-length albums, The Powerful Hands (2007, Scarlet), and Paradigma (2010, TRP) to rave reviews from critics and fans alike.

Jo Lombardo (vocals),  Stefano “Ghigas” Calvagno (guitars), Davide Bruno (keybords), Dino Fiorenza (bass) and Salvo “T-Metal” Grasso (drums) are currently in the studio putting final touches to the third album due to release in 2015.

The group initially came together in 1997 under the moniker METAFORA and released on Track Record Productions a four song EP entitled Reazioni e Memorie.  Later changing its name to METATRONE, the group released its full-length debut La Mano Potente in 2005 (also on TRP), which was followed in 2007 by the English version The Powerful Hand, receiving distribution by Scarlet Records in Europe and King Records in Asia.  After its release, METATRONE began to play live in Italy and at festivals such as Elements of Rock, Tumbalong Park and World Youth Day in Australia just to name a few.

The material forming the third METATRONE album Paradigma (released December 25, 2010 on TRP) reflected a progressive metal influence.  The album featured songs in English, Italian, Latin and Spanish while interspersed with occasional growled vocals.  Reviews were favorable from the likes of Metal Hammer, Metal Maniac and others.  A video of the Paradigma track “In Spe Resurrectionis” followed in May of 2012.

METATRONE line-up:

Jo Lombardo - Led Vocals
Stefano “Ghigas” Calvagno - Guitars
Davide Bruno - Keyboards
Dino Fiorenza - Bass
Salvo “T-Metal” Grasso - Drums

Rockshots Music Management online: www.rockshots.eu

METATRONE online: www.facebook.com/metatroneband

NEWS BRIEFS

* HALCYON WAY, “Home” lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmp9HfxWcao

* STRYPER update from vocalist Michael Sweet (Christian Metal Realm - September 14, 2014): “We're writing the new album now and we will start recording in late January.  Should be released 4th quarter of 2015.  It will be even better than NMHTP (at least we will strive to accomplish this) and there will be more to come.  Exciting times ahead and maybe even some surprises…”

* VENI DOMINE calls it quits (as announced by guitarist Torbjörn Weinesjö on September 20, 2014 at the Christian Metal Realm): “With a heavy heart we bring you the news that we decided to put the band to sleep, it is no longer.  27 years that holds and keeps the full spectra of every emotion imaginable, not without sadness we left the table with the decision unthinkable but yet inevitable.  Time caught up with us and at the end of the day we found that trying keeping a band at a high level with all including parts is a task too time consuming to handle. On the horizon we saw it coming. Even though we steered clear of the horizon on many occasions the horizon moved closer, faster than expected this time.  We left the table with a sense of mutual respect; the brotherhood and friendship will live on.

“Being labeled a Christian band we fought the preconceptions on many fronts and we feel fortunate to have gained friends all over the world, including all kinds of different world views excluding no one.  Our love and respect to all our friends who stood by us during the years, our families who took the downside of the business, all of you who bought the music, responded and communicated back to us, we shared this journey that ends today.

“We leave with the legacy of seven albums.  There’s a lot to say about that but one must not linger in the past, tomorrow must not be bound by yesterdays, life will move on.  The future holds no promises other than that all is possible. Branching out from here, The Redstone Project, Grand Stand and Nubian Rose, keep track of those and we will meet again."

 

INTERVIEWS

New THE BRAVE interview online:
In a recent online interview with Untombed, THE BRAVE members Amada Z (vocals), Stayce Roberts (guitars) and Johnny Z (drums) discus the bands new album, Rise, and the reason it reformed following a 20-year hiatus:

This is an exciting time for the band and a lot people are pretty amped up about your new Album “Rise”. I’d love for you to tell our readers what prompted The Brave to return to the scene at this time after 20 years.
-Stayce: Well, it was after Randy (Roberts – former Brave vocalist) had passed away in 2007; we had decided to put on a concert in tribute to him, in our hometown. It was Freddy, Johnny, Steve Irwin, and me on the roster and originally, I was going to sing everything, because our voices are pretty similar being brothers.. However, it was an extremely difficult time for me, and after more consideration, we really still wanted a dedicated lead singer. Out of everyone we knew, Amanda was the obvious choice. She knew Randy, she was a fan of The Brave, and frankly, she was the only one we thought could actually pull it off. We’d been talking about doing a record ever since. It was just a matter of time and resources after that.

Read full interview: HERE

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

HARMONY reveals line-up for new album:
Press Release / The Swedish melodic metal band HARMONY have uploaded a video to YouTube that reveals the line-up for their new album, which will be released later this year through Ulterium Records.

More information regarding the album to be announced during the coming month.

HARMONY released their debut album Dreaming Awake via Massacre Records in 2003.  In addition to founding members guitarist Markus Sigfridsson (DARKWATER, 7 DAYS) and drummer Tobias Enbert (DARKWATER, EMPIRE 21), the original HARMONY line-up also featured vocalist Henrik Båth and keyboardist Magnus Holmberg (both DARKWATER) and bassist Andreas Passmark (ROYAL HUNT, WORK OF ART, W.E.T., NARNIA).

Follow-up album Chapter II: The Aftermath was released in 2008 through Ulterium Records. Kristoffer Gildenlöw (ex. PAIN OF SALVATION) performed all bass on the album, while Daniel Heiman (ex. LOST HORIZON) contributed guest vocals to the track "Inner Peace".

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

HARMONY online: www.facebook.com/harmonysweden

SIGN OF JONAH release debut album, Sacrifice:
Press Release / SIGN OF JONAH are a Wichita, Kansas based power trio with a classic rock vibe, inspiring message, clear vocals and killer lead guitar!  The group independently released its full-length debut, Sacrifice, on August 25, 2014.

Gary Heitz fronts SIGN OF JONAH in addition to handling lead guitar, majority of the songwriting and engineering duties. Joining Heitz on rhythm guitar is Scott Miller.  Better known for his PILGRIMSPROG project, a concept album based upon the classic book Pilgrim’s Progress, Miller also contributes lead vocals to the track “Idea” while co-writing several of the albums songs.  Drummer Mike Smith rounds out the SIGN OF JONAH roster with a heavy hitting double bass style that lends a heavier edge to the bands sound.

Sacrifice track listing:

1. “Sacrifice”
2. “Refine My Heart”
3. “Satisfied”
4. “The Gift”
5. “You’re The Rock”
6. “Right To Life”
7, “Every Day”
8. “You Gave”
9. “All That Remains”
10. “New Man”
11. “Idea”
12. “In My Heart”

SIGN OF JONAH BAND online: www.signofjonahband.com, www.facebook.com/signofjonahband & https://signofjonahks.bandcamp.com/releases

NEWS BRIEFS

*PROYECTO ASLAN is a new symphonic power metal band from Argentina: www.reverbnation.com/ProyectoAslanOficial

*New album video update from TERAMAZE vocalist Nathan Peachey: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWa6Qycna8c&feature=youtu.be

*”Creation Song”, second single off the forthcoming EP from M.A.P., From Where We Are, To Where We Will Be: https://soundcloud.com/guitarist-rob-perez/map-creation-song

M.A.P. represents the first letter in the last name of members Rick Mals (bass & drum composer), Tim Amos (vocals) and Rob Perez (guitars & keyboards).

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

DELIVERANCE to perform at Skull Fest:
Press Release / You said you wanted a little 80's thrash, so that's what you get!  Skull Fest is EXTREMELY excited to announce a new, one-of-a-kind addition to our already amazing line-up of bands! This band will NOT be performing anywhere in 2014 except for Skull Fest 2 in October! The lead singer and guitar player haven't stood side-by-side on stage in nearly 20 years, yet their output from the 1980's stands up as some of the best speed/thrash metal of the era, and is still highly regarded today. Skull Fest is STOKED to announce the addition of the legendary DELIVERANCE to our Saturday night line-up! To make this even bigger, Jimmy P. Brown II (lead vocals & guitars) and George Rene Ochoa (lead guitars) will be joined on-stage by TOURNIQUET bass player Victor Macias, and THE CRUCIFIED's drummer, Jim Chaffin, creating a truly legendary line-up that is guaranteed to blow you away!

Be sure to get your tickets IMMEDIATELY, because Saturday is going to sell out quickly now! Additionally, we have JUST added an EXTREMELY LIMITED number of special Saturday DELIVERANCE VIP packages for just $75, which includes a limited edition, 2-CD DELIVERANCE album Temporary Insanity - A Salute To Deliverance album that you can get signed by the band at Skull Fest!  And welcome my friends from DELIVERANCE to the show!

Ticket information: www.skullfest.net

In other DELIVERANCE news, the group recently provided an update in regards to its recently announced acoustic shows (Facebook - August 11, 2014): “We want to give a big thank you out there to all of those that have responded on the previously announced acoustic shows between Jimmy and George! Unfortunately, we just can't seem to get this off the ground right now in the time frame we needed to make it work!

“We could not secure enough committed responses and unfortunately to do this means we would have to take time off from work, time away from family and travel expenses. So without being able to secure some formal commitments it is just not feasible to do at this time, we sincerely apologize for that.

“Not to worry, Jimmy and George are still working together on some new ideas as we take this back to the drawing board! We are thinking of doing some bigger and better things to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Weapons Of Our Warfare in 2015 in lieu of the unplugged tour. So stay tuned as you definitely haven't heard the last from us yet!

“Also be on the lookout for a couple of very special acoustic tracks to grace the re-mastered reissue of Stay Of Execution Roxx Records has planned to release this Fall! And be sure to pick up one of the Limited Edition vinyl reissues of ‘Weapons’ before those are all gone!”

Roxx Productions online: www.roxxproductions.com

DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks

SNAKETOWN SYNDICATE release full-length debut, Die Sin Die:
Press Release / Phoenix, Arizona hard rockers SNAKETOWN SYNDICATE released their debut album Die Sin Die on August 7, 2014 via Stone Groove Records.  Album art was illustrated by label owner Randy Michaud, who is also founder of the ambient doom project TROGLODYTE DAWN and previous front man of the melodic metal band TYKKÜS.

SNAKETOWN SYNDICATE consists of bassist and vocalist David Mastel (previously of LETTER 7, TYKKÜS & BLINDSEVEN) and guitarist Rock Huddleston. 

Michaud describes SNAKETOWN SYNDICATE "as hard rock with upfront Christian lyrics and a vibe that is similar to ALICE IN CHAINS in places.”

“Wickedly Evil” is the first single from the album: https://snaketownsyndicate.bandcamp.com/track/wickedly-evil-2

Die Sin Die track listing:

1. “I Need You”
2. “Rooster Crows”
3. “Die Sin Die”
4. “Wickedly Evil”
5. “Listen”
6. “Something To Live For”
7. “Sympathia”
8. “Eternity”
9. “Where Are You?”
10. “Lullaby”

Stone Groove Records online: http://bandcamp.com/stonegrooverecords/following

SNAKETOWN SYNDICATE online: https://snaketownsyndicate.bandcamp.com/releases

NEWS BRIEFS

* Christian Metal Distro is a new online retailer: http://christianmetaldistro.storenvy.com

* Stone Groove Records released a single featuring live and studio versions of the classic TYKKÜS track “Warfare”: https://tykkus.bandcamp.com/album/warfare

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

HALCYON WAY reveal Conquer release date & track listing:
Press Release / Award Winning Atlanta, Georgia progressive metallers HALCYON WAY have confirmed an August 19th North American release date and an August 23rd European release date for their new album Conquer. The album will be released on Nightmare Records in North America and via Massacre Records in Europe.

Singer Steve Braun commented on the new album: "We are super stoked about how this entire album has come out, from music down to the artwork. Once again, our good friend Travis Smith has taken our basic artwork concept and made it into a masterpiece. The artwork visually shows the struggles we as a band have faced and how it could have destroyed us, yet at the same time shows how we've emerged from the rubble as a solid unit ready to conquer ANY obstacle in our way. For us we raised the bar with Building the Towers back in 2010, and with the new album Conquer we've surpassed our wildest dreams."

HALCYON WAY was founded in 2001 and released its successful debut album A Manifesto For Domination in 2008 (via Nightmare Records).  The group’s sophomore effort Building The Towers came out in 2010 (also on Nightmare).

HALCYON WAY's sound cannot be neatly slotted into any sub-category of metal; but it can be described as heavy, catchy, technical, and above all, focused on mature song craft. The band draws influences & inspiration from many metal bands from MEGADETH to DREAM THEATER, TESTAMENT or CHIMAIRA.  The focus of the songwriting is on catchy hooks, vocal harmonies à la KING’S X or STRYPER and on heavy, technical, but ultimately accessible instrumentation.

Conquer track listing:

1. “Conquer”
2. “Web Of Lies”
3. “Conceived In Torment”
4. “Home”
5. “World Comes Undone”
6. “Militant”
7. “Hatred Is My Cause”
8. “The Poisoned Apple”
9. “Save Your Tears”
10. “Every Second Counts” (USA bonus track)
11. “King Of Ruin”
12. “Eviscerate The Morning Sun”

Angelic Warlord interview with HALCYON WAY guitarist Jon Bodan: www.angelicwarlord.com/interviews/halcyonway11.html

Nightmare Records online: www.nightmarerecords.com

HALCYON WAY online: www.halcyonway.com & www.facebook.com/halcyonway

SOUND OF ETERNITY - “Broken Heart” video premiere:
Press Release / “Broken Heart”, the new video from San Pedro Sula, Honduras based melodic hard rockers SOUND OF ETERNITY, can be seen above.  The song is taken from the group’s full-length debut Visions & Dreams, which was released June 16, 2014 via Melodic Rock Records.

Gerson Sagastume produced and directed the video.

Guitarist Jean Funes and vocalist Beatriz Aranda formed SOUND OF ETERNITY in 2013 after releasing two Spanish albums as part of CODIGO ETERNO, Codigo Eterno (2008) and Canten La Tierra Y El Cielo (2011).  Drummer Rui Prado rounds out the bands line-up.

SOUND OF ETERNITY describes itself as “a female fronted melodic rock band with a modern twist (and) powerful Christian message”.  The groups influences range from STRYPER, HB, HARMONY and NARNIA to SKILLET and FIREFLIGHT.

Visions & Dreams was mixed and mastered by Erik Martensson (W.E.T., ECLIPSE, Jimi Jamison), who also contributes bass and keyboards to the album.  Andreas Passmark (NARNIA, Rob Rock, WORK OF ART) provides additional bass guitar.  Carl Andre Beckston (MONOWASP) handled cover artwork and Nello Dell'Omo the booklet design.

The track “Call To Action” is available for streaming at: https://soundcloud.com/melodicrock/sound-of-eternity-call-to-action

Visions & Dreams track listing:

1. “Visions & Dreams”
2. “Call To Action”
3. “Running To You”
4. “Broken Heart”
5. “Reason To Live”
6. “Alpha & Omega”
7. “My Saviour”
8. “Eternal Love”
9. “Forever”
10. “Universe”

SOUND OF ETERNITY online: www.facebook.com/soundofeternity

TRUE STRENGTH at work on sophomore release, Steel Evangelist:
Press Release / Christian heavy metal band TRUE STRENGTH is pleased to announce that they have started recording their second independent studio album entitled Steel Evangelist.  The group is planning a mid-2015 release. 

Josh Cirbo at Josh Cirbo Studio is recording the album, while Ryan Mey will handle mastering.

TRUE STRENGTH has maintained the same line-up that appeared on its 2014 debut The Cross Will Always Prevail.  Also similar to the debut, the band plans to donate all proceeds from Steel Evangelist to charity.

Steel Evangelist track listing:

1. “No Cheek Left to Turn”
2. “Steel Evangelist”
3. “Cilician Gates”
4. “Gabriel The Archangel”
5. “Woe To The Sons Of Ishmael”
6. “Blood Waters The Cedars Of Lebanon”
7. “Jerusalem Of The East”
8. “Beyond The Barbed Wire”
9. “The War We Fight”

TRUE STRENGTH line-up:

Rus Gib - Lead Vocals
Ryan “The Archangel” Darnell - Guitars & Bass
Josh Cirbo - Guitars
Chris Clark - Drums

In other TRUE STRENGTH news, the CD version of The Cross Will Always Prevail should be released in limited quantities in September.  The album has been available digitally since June of this year from iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody and other digital music retailers. Stay tuned to the band's Facebook page for all updates regarding the CD release. 

TRUE STRENGTH online: www.facebook.com/pages/True-Strength

NEWS BRIEFS

* Samples to the new THE BRAVE album Rise: www.thebravemusic.com/music

* E-mail update from MESSENGER: “MESSENGER is grasping shield & sword and getting into the battle. Armed with a new line up & writing new songs, they have been playing new shows since Spring 2014 (check out the schedule they've been playing!). They are promising an elevated show and soon a new CD. More show dates will be added when available.

MESSENGER line-up:

Frank Clifton Herring - Lead Vocals, Second Guitar & Keyboards
Vlad Gurin - Lead Guitar
Mike Zahorchak - New Drummer
Rich Sandoval - Bass Guitar

MESSENGER online: www.messengermetal.com/index & www.facebook.com/MessengerMetal

* New album on the way from SIGNUM REGIS (Facebook - July 24, 2014): It's been a couple of days, so here is a little update for you, our friends.  Drums and bass are recorded for 3 songs, rhythm guitars for 2 and a half song (there's a surprise regarding this!!), this weekend, we will do some guitar re-amping and record first vocal tracks. Next week, Ronnie (König - bass) is getting his first, brand new signature bass by Sivčák Guitars, which will be used for the recording. More info soon!”

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

ATKINS MAY PROJECT unveils Empire Of Destruction artwork & track listing:
Press Release / Al Atkins is best known for forming UK’s JUDAS PRIEST and fronting them for four years, and laying down the foundations that would see them eventually selling 40 million albums worldwide.  He also wrote songs for them that went gold like “Dreamer Deceiver”, “Never Satisfied”, “Winter”, “Caviar and Meths”, and PRIEST’s all time classic “Victim of Changes”.  Al’s unique powerful vocal style sites influences by noted rock singers Roger Daltrey, Paul Rodgers and longtime friend Robert Plant.  Al has done countless radio and TV interviews worldwide and recently was filmed for BBC TV British Heritage and Banger Films Canada for the metal evolution series on VH1.  He has even written a book on his musical life about growing up in Birmingham, UK, alongside Robert Plant and Black Sabbath, called Dawn of the Metal Gods.  Al has released 6 solo albums to date, toured the US twice, and has worked with Brian Tatler (DIAMOND HEAD), Dave Holland (JUDAS PRIEST), Dennis Stratton (IRON MAIDEN) and Bernie Torme (Ozzy/Gillan).  Al recently released a new self-titled album with his offshoot band HOLY RAGE and has now teamed up with brilliant Christian writer/guitarist Paul May and recorded two albums, Serpent’s Kiss (released in 2011) and Valley Of Shadows (2012), which Al says are the best recordings to date!

Paul May is another kettle of fish.  Some people learn to play guitar, Paul was born (again) to play guitar!  Paul has become respected for his passionate, soulful guitar work and noted for his explosive and exciting solos.  As a world-class professional guitarist and songwriter, Paul has played and recorded sessions across the globe, touring and playing throughout the UK, Europe, USA and the Eastern block.  Paul appears on around 50 albums to date, featured in both the secular and Christian arenas.  Paul is also a record producer and has covered the entire spectrum of musical tastes in production.  Paul has played, recorded with and produced alongside the bands and members of: Al Atkins (JUDAS PRIEST), Dave Holland (JUDAS PRIEST), Roy Wood (MOVE, ELO, WIZARD), Jon Brooks (THE CHARLATANS), SMOKIN RODIE/TEMPEST, MC5, V-RATS, JANUS, A.N.D, Dave Rowley Band, Larry Norman and many others. Along with working with Al Atkins, Paul currently plays guitar with A.N.D and TEMPLE DOGS.

They teamed up about four years ago, and Empire Of Destruction is their third album, which takes them into slightly more progressive territory than the first two, whilst maintaining their normal high standards.  A free bonus DVD comes with the album, which is scheduled for release on September 29, 2014.

Empire Of Destruction track listing:

1. “Dog Eat Dog”
2. “Whisper To The Wind”
3. “A World at War”
4. “The Midas Touch”
5. “Here Comes The Rain”
6. “Darkness Within”
7. “Reckless Child”
8. “Paranoia”

DVD track listing:

1. “Welcome To The Nightmare”
2. “Fight”
3. “The Shallowing” (unplugged)
4. “The Darkness Within”
5. “Enslaved to Love”
6. “Interview with Paul May and Al Atkins”

Empire Of Destruction can be pre-ordered at: www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15720/Atkins_May_Project-Empire_of_Destruction.html

ATKINS MAY PROJECT online: www.atkinsmayproject.com & www.facebook.com/pages/Atkins-May-Project-Official

PROMISE LAND - “Hiding Place” lyric video released:
Press Release / “Hiding Place”, the official lyric video from Western Pennsylvania symphonic metal act PROMISE LAND, can be viewed above.  The song is taken off the group’s full-length debut Harmony In Ruins, which was released via XNilo Records on August 5, 2014.

“Hiding Place” is a song based on the true story of Corrie Ten-Boom, a modern-day ‘hero of the faith’.  The story takes place during WWII when Nazi Germany was on their way to conquering much of Europe.  During this time, Corrie Ten-Boom and her family became key players in hiding many refugees and saving many Jews from imprisonment and death. The ten-Boom’s built a secret room to avoid being caught during house-raids.  The secret room was built in Corrie’s bedroom as a result of her room’s location in the house, allowing more time for the refugees to hide.

The ten-Boom family was eventually arrested and Corrie and Betsie(her sister) were sent to the notorious Ravensbrück concentration camp in Germany on December 16, 1944, where Betsie died.  Before she died she told Corrie, “There is no pit so deep that God’s love is not deeper still.”  Corrie was released on New Year’s Eve of December 1944.  In the movie The Hiding Place, Corrie narrates the section on her release from camp, saying that she later learned that her release had been a clerical error.  The women prisoners within her age were killed the week following her release.  She said, “God does not have problems. Only plans.”

After the war, Corrie began her ministry, at first helping the survivors of the war and later traveling around the world as a speaker focusing her message on the Gospel and much emphasis on forgiveness.  She later shares in her book Tramp For The Lord that in 1947 the Lord sent her back to Germany to share His message.  During her speaking engagement, one of the guards from Ravensbrück concentration camp, who had been so brutal to the prisoners, came to her now in need of her help.  She admits that she could not find forgiveness for him, so she turned to God pleading for His help and love for this man.  God answered her prayers and in her own words: “For a long moment we grasped each others hands, the former guard and the former prisoner. I had never known God’s love so intensely as I did then.”

She also wrote (in the same passage): “In her post-war experience with other victims of Nazi brutality, it was those who were able to forgive who were best able to rebuild their lives.”

To learn more about Corrie Ten-Boom and her family, please visit the Corrie ten boom foundation: www.corrietenboom.com

PROMISE LAND online: http://promiselandx.com & www.facebook.com/PromiseLandX

SUPERNAL ENDGAME - Touch The Sky: Volume II details revealed:
Press Release / Hailing from Dallas, Texas, SUPERNAL ENDGAME specializes in melodic symphonic progressive rock combined with elements of hook-filled power-pop and classic hard rock, with a touch of ambient music and Celtic folk.  Lyrically, the project is infused with a strong spiritual element. 

On their second full-length release, Touch the Sky: Volume II, the band consists of Rob Price (lead and backing vocals, drums, percussion, loops, and keys), John Eargle (electric, acoustic, and synthesized guitars, keyboards, loops, bass, mandolin, secondary lead and backing vocals), Tom More (bass guitar, keys, midi pedals, backing vocals), Jett Cheek (keyboards, backing vocals), and John Crafton (electric, acoustic, and classical guitars, backing vocals). 

The band is joined on Touch the Sky: Volume II by special guests Dave Bainbridge from the band IONA and Carl Baldasarre from the band SYZYGY on lead guitar. 

Touch The Sky: Volume II will be released on September 16, 2014.

“Blending their diverse technical skills with an abundance of strong melodies and compositional hooks, Supernal Endgame steers the listener through arrangements as smooth as a gentle stream or as breathtaking and expansive as a rushing waterfall.”
- Craig Hartranft – Dangerdog Music Reviews (on Touch the
Sky Volume I) www.dangerdog.com

Touch The Sky: Volume II track listing:

1. “Supernal One (Imminence and Transcendence)”
2. “Different Stage”
3. “Again and Again”
4. “Eden's Song”
5. “S.O.S (Save Me)”
6. “Immutable”
7. “White Flag”
8. “Swim In Your Ocean”
9. “Orwelled”
10. “The Endgame”

SUPERNAL ENDGAME online: www.supernalendgame.com & www.facebook.com/supernalendgame

NEWS BRIEFS

* New SAINT album, Broad Is The Gate, update (Facebook - July 18, 2014): “New album in August, no set date.  Jared (Knowland – drummer) says he's almost home done.  Dakin says he's 80% on the cover art- should be no problem getting that done. As soon as I send the masters in we'll start taking pre orders.”

* A 95-second audio sample of the song “Divine” from SWEET/LYNCH - the new band featuring guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER and legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB) - can be streamed at: http://audio.chirbit.com/michaelhsweet_1407861169.mp3

 

FEATURED REVIEWS

Derek Close - The Beta Sessions
Everything about The Beta Sessions, the March of 2014 sophomore album of bassist and guitarist Derek Close, screams straightforward hard rock.  Read Full Review >>

GUARDIAN - Almost Home
There are two constants in the lineage of Christian rock veterans Guardian: Whatever new album Guardian releases will more than likely differ noticeably from its immediate predecessor, and long-term fans and critics are going to bemoan that said album fails to be a throwback to the groups early nineties releases.  Read Full Review >>

GX PROJECT - Sinner
The GX Project summer of 2014 sophomore album Sinner in quotes from Southern California based founding member and vocalist Rex Scott:  “This is the most true rock ‘n’ roll album I've ever done.  It's rock ‘n’ roll from beginning to end and I love it.  I've done metal, hard rock and pop rock but this is real rock ‘n’ roll”.  Read Full Review >>

HYPNOGOG - Syndrig Tymes
If the expression “broke the mold” comes to mind on first listen to Syndrig Times, the spring of 2014 full-length debut of Dan Lively’s HypnoGog project, it wouldn’t be an accident on part of the artist.  Read Full Review >>

PILGRIMSPROG - Pilgrimsprog
By every reasonable definition, Pilgrimsprog, the 2010 full-length debut of multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Scott Miller’s Pilgrimsprog project, is a progressive concept album.  Read Full Review >>

PROMISE LAND - Harmony In Ruins
The constant with Promise Land is musical direction, which falls under the classically influenced symphonic metal heading.  The group, in its own words, performs “orchestral cinematic metal” that is “modern, heavy, melodic, aggressive and orchestral/cinematic” at the same time.  Read Full Review >>

RAZORIGAMI - Truths From Beyond The Machine
Truths From Beyond The Machine takes vocalist Luke Richard Weber’s Razorigami project to new levels in both songwriting and musicianship.  Read Full Review >>

TRUE STRENGTH - The Cross Will Always Prevail
True Strength leaves little doubt as to its ability to diversify.  I find placing a sub-genre label on the group, as a result, problematic; rather, a catchall power metal designation seems most applicable and accurate.  Read Full Review >>

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

PROJECT AEGIS - “Collide & Spark” full track posted online:
Press Release / Ulterium Records is proud to announce the release of "Collide & Spark", an all-star charity track for sale with 100% of the income going to The Bridge Bunch, an organization dedicated to serving the homeless population of Nashville, TN, in the United States.

The song, which is almost seven minutes in length, is being released under the banner PROJECT AEGIS, and was composed by THEOCRACY vocalist and songwriter Matt Smith.  It features vocals by Nils K. Rue (PAGAN’S MIND), Henrik Båth (DARKWATER), Elin Redin (END OF SEPTEMBER) and Smith, as well as a guitar solo by Markus Sigfridsson (DARKWATER, HARMONY).

The artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco (BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY OF FIRE) and designed by Markus Sigfridsson.

"Collide & Spark" can be purchased at the following online outlets:

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/collide-spark-single/id780798820
Amazon mp3: www.amazon.com/Collide-Spark/dp/B00H9YYQDM
Spotify: https://play.spotify.com/track/0mjJtxE7hSdAlWIV4O2
Bandcamp: https://ulteriumrecords.bandcamp.com/track/collide-spark

New Neal Morse solo album, Songs From November:
Press Release / Much to the excitement of progressive rock fans worldwide, Neal Morse will be releasing his eagerly anticipated new solo album Songs From November on Aug. 19, 2014! Even a style as broad and accepting as progressive rock has its boundaries. Prog icon Neal Morse decided to break that mold and create a challenging new album. Songs From November may be his bravest outing to date. Musically, creatively, and production-wise, it’s like nothing he’s ever done. Can you handle it?! It’s an album of “normal” songs!

Says Neal, “I listen to a lot of different kinds of music for various occasions… prog albums when I really want to focus on intricate music… sometimes jazz and classical. But many times I find myself attracted to 'feel good' singer-songwriter albums like a Jackson Browne or Graham Nash record. So one day I thought to myself… I'd like to make an album like that! Songs From November is that album.”

Morse wrote most of the songs during a flood of ideas in November, 2013. He recalls, “They just kept pouring out that month…I don't really know why…but it was great!” After the epic Transatlantic world tour was completed in March 2014, Morse set out to make 'November' a reality. And he would craft it differently than anything before.

Says Neal, “I could've gotten together with a bunch of studio musicians in Nashville and banged this thing out, but I felt like the thing to do was to get together with this young drummer named Gabe Klein and work on it as a team. He is only 18 years old and amazing! We had a great time recording these songs and many more. We actually recorded twice as many songs as we needed and picked the best ones. It was the first time I've ever done that and it was very fruitful. I sent out 21 songs to a bunch of different people that I trust and chose from their lists. So that was also a totally new approach for me.”

The final 11 songs are among the best that Neal has ever composed – and the most surprising you will hear. In reinventing himself, he was ready to explore uncharted territory. Are you?

Songs From November is produced by Neal Morse and engineered and mastered by Rich Mouser.

Songs From November track listing:

1. “Whatever Days”
2. “Heaven Smiled”
3. “Flowers In A Vase”
4. “Love Shot An Arrow”
5. “Song For The Free”
6. “Tell Me Annabelle”
7. “My Time Of Dying”
8. “When Things Slow Down”
9. “Daddy’s Daughter”
10. “Wear The Chains”
11. “The Way Of Love”

Neal Morse online: www.nealmorse.com & www.facebook.com/nealmorse

PROTO KAW - Before Became After new version:
As noted by guitarist & keyboardist Kerry Livgren at www.numavox.com/home.htm:

"This recording has been partially re-recorded, re-mixed, and re-mastered.  Why?  Although there was certainly nothing overtly “wrong” with it, the original recording process became a bit rushed in the mix down (they always do!)  The more I listened to it, the more I believed (the album) needed to be re-mixed, and some of the tracks re-recorded.  I'm glad I did.

"Conceptually, I sought to recreate this album with the band members who toured it in the United States and Europe. During those tours, we became very well adapted to each other as musicians and became good friends. We hope you enjoy this new version of Before Became After."

WHAT WAS DONE:

The re-recording of the album involved three different procedures. First, entirely new tracks were recorded or overdubbed over some of the originals.  The second category would be the “re-amping”of the original tracks. (for instance, running an original guitar track through a different amplifier, such as the Kemper Profiling Amp.)  The third is editing. Every track and sound was listened to meticulously and edited if necessary.

1. The Drums: All sampled drums have been removed, and the drum tracks on every song were re-recorded, with Mike Patrum using acoustic drums only.  Original drummer Brad Schulz lives in Idaho (we're in Kansas), and was unable to participate fully, so Mike became the PROTO-KAW touring drummer and has been on every project since.

2. Keyboard Tracks: The sampled organ was removed and re-recorded using microphones and a real Leslie. Many of the existing keyboard sounds were redone with improved patches, plus there are numerous new overdubs.

3. Orchestral Tracks: Most of the tracks, (90%) were redone with updated and improved instruments and samples.

4. Woodwind and Brass tracks: Little was done to John's (Bolton) sax and flute, apart from some minor editing and EQ. There are, however, new brass overdubs.

5. Guitar Tracks: Every original track was run through the Kemper, and there are many licks and phrases that are newly recorded.

6. Vocal Tracks: Lynn's (Meredith) vocals were edited and eq'ed, but otherwise remained the same. The biggest change was added background vocals by Jake Livgren, which are not on the original recording.

7. Percussion Tracks: Redone with improved patches and samples, plus there are new overdubs recorded by Jake.

8. Bass Tracks: All of the tracks are from the original, except “Axolotl” and a portion of “Leaven”, which was re-recorded by Craig Kew.  Craig joined the band from the outset, replacing original bassist Rod Mikinski.

The PROTO-KAW sophomore album Before Became After was originally released on Inside Out Music in 2004.  PROTO-KAW debuted in 2002 on Cuniform Records with Early Recordings From Kansas, a compilation of demo tapes recorded by an earlier version of KANSAS (a.k.a. KANSAS II) between 1971 and 1973.  The third and most well known version of KANSAS went on to commercial success with hit songs such as “Dust In The Wind” and “Carry On Wayward Son”.  Hence, note how “proto” refers to first, while “kaw” is the Native American name for Kansas (PROTO-KAW).

The Angelic Warlord review (90%) noted the following about Before Became After: “With Livgren being the bands primary songwriter, it is only natural to expect Proto-Kaw to reflect a Kansas-element in its sound.  Consequently, if you enjoy Kansas, particularly its earlier material, then you are going to love Before Became After.  But Proto-Kaw, on the other hand, is very much its own band with its own unique and distinct sound.  Yes, the music here is VERY progressive but that would only be telling part of the story.  The use of a saxophone and flute, for example, helps to give the album a jazz-rock fusion feel while other moments are outright epic and orchestral in their capacity or even lean towards a classic rock direction.  A "jam band" influence can also be found in several sweeping instrumental passages showcasing the abundant confidence Proto-Kaw displays in its instrumental sound.”

Before Became After track listing:

1. "Alt. More Worlds Than Known"
2. "Words Of Honor"
3. "Leaven"
4. "Axolotl"
5. "Quantum Leapfrog"
6. "Greenburg, Glickstein, Charles, Davis, Smith and Jones"
7. "Gloriana"
8. "Occasion Of Your Honest Dreaming"
9. "Heavenly Man"
10. "Theophany"

NEWS BRIEFS

* Online interview with GX PROJECT vocalist Rex Scott: www.x-sinner.org/Interviews.html

* In studio clip from Rewind 36, which features Jimmy Brown (DELIVERANCE) and George Ochoa (WORLDVIEW) performing an acoustic version of the track “23”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtY1CkCCA7g
 
“23” appeared on the 1990 DELIVERANCE sophomore album Weapons Of Our Warfare, which was recently re-issued on blue vinyl by Roxx Productions.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

STILL featuring Michael Sweet, George Lynch: first audio snippet:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / A 58-second audio snippet of the song "Time Will Tell" from STILL - the new band featuring guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER, legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB), bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and Brian Tichy (S.U.N., WHITESNAKE) - can be streamed at the link provided below.

STILL's debut album will be released in early 2015 via Frontiers. The band's first lyric video for the song "September" - a tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York - will be made available on September 11.

Sweet told Guitar International about STILL: "It was the brainchild of Serafino Perugino at Frontiers Records. He asked me to basically sing on this record and then I suggested producing it. I co-wrote the songs with George. I called Brian Tichy and James Lomenzo to put the band together. It's an incredible combination of classic '70s and '80s. You will hear some flavors of JOURNEY, BAD COMPANY, DOKKEN, VAN HALEN and STRYPER."

He added: "I love this CD. I'm super excited for people to hear this CD. I'm so proud of it.

"James and Brian are amazing musicians. They tore it up. The drums and bass are just as impressive as the guitars. Everybody really delivered… The musicianship level on this is top notch. It sounds as if we were all in the stuff playing together and we were not. Basically, George wrote some riffs about a minute to a minute and a half long. I wrote lyrics and melodies then arranged them. I cut and pasted them together in the studio. Then Brian and James came out and tracked the drums and bass, as well as some rhythm stuff. We then sent it to George to add the guitars."

Asked if there will be any live dates in support of the album, Sweet said: "We are one million percent sure there will be a tour."

Audio sample of “Time Will Tell” by STILL can be streamed: HERE

STRYPER - Live At The Whiskey details revealed:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / Christian hard rockers STRYPER will release a concert CD/DVD combination called Live At The Whisky on September 23 via Frontiers. The live recording captures a sold-out show last November at the legendary Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood, California. The 16-track collection documents the band's first show in support of its latest, critically acclaimed release, No More Hell To Pay. From the show opener "Legacy" to the final notes of show finale "Soldiers Under Command", Live At The Whisky documents STRYPER's rich musical legacy that spans over 30 years. The original lineup comprised of Michael Sweet (vocals/guitars), Robert Sweet (drums), Oz Fox (guitars) and Tim Gaines (bass) showcase the musicianship and songs that garnered the band a huge fan base in the mainstream world and the Christian market.

Live At The Whisky was produced by Michael Sweet and is available for pre-order at Amazon.

"We've always wanted to record a live album that captures the rawness of the band and this is it!" says the band. "We couldn't be more thrilled then to have captured this at the infamous Whisky, where it all began for us. After 30 years, we're still proud to do what we do and hopefully it shows. This is an intimate performance, the way it should be."

The Live At The Whisky DVD contains the music videos for the songs "No More Hell To Pay" and "Sympathy", both of which are taken from No More Hell To Pay. It also features an interview segment the band recorded for Nashville All Access.

The concert will be broadcast on AXS.TV on September 28. Check local listings and providers for more information on the television debut of "Live At The Whisky" this fall.

Live At The Whisky track listing:

1. “Legacy”
2. “Marching Into Battle”
3. “You Know What To Do”
4. “Loud And Clear”
5. “Reach Out”
6. “Calling On You”
7. “Free”
8. “More Than A Man”
9. “The Rock That Makes Me Roll”
10. “No More Hell To Pay”
11. “Jesus Is Just Alright”
12. “Always There For You”
13. “All For One”
14. “The Way”
15. “To Hell With The Devil”
16. “Soldiers Under Command”

A trailer for the DVD can be seen below.

No More Hell To Pay sold around 9,600 copies in the United States in its first week of release to debut at position No. 35 on The Billboard 200 chart.

Second Coming, a collection of re-recorded versions of STRYPER's classic songs, opened with around 4,400 units back in April to land at No. 117.

STRYPER's covers album, 2011's The Covering, registered a first-week tally of around 4,600 copies to enter the chart at No. 175.

The band's previous collection of new material, 2009's Murder By Pride, premiered with 5,900 copies to debut at No. 73.

No More Hell To Pay was released on November 5, 2013 in North America via Frontiers Records. The effort was made available in two formats - standard CD and deluxe digipak featuring exclusive video content. Produced by STRYPER guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet himself, the set features some of STRYPER's strongest and heaviest material ever.

STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper

DELIVERANCE announces live acoustic shows:
As taken from the groups Facebook page (July 19, 2014)

“Huge thanks to all the DELIVERANCE fans out there for the great response and support on the Frontline Rewind Podcast! Jimmy and George together again, oh what a feeling! After the show it felt so good working together again after all these years we’re talking about doing a handful of shows across the US ‘unplugged’ style! Yes we are working on a 45 minute to an hour set to celebrate the new vinyl release and the 24th anniversary of Weapons Of Our Warfare! The set will be completely stripped down, Jimmy and George on mostly acoustic guitars playing your favorite classic ‘D’ songs and telling you stories of the glory days of DELIVERANCE!

“We are looking at bringing this show to you anywhere and we want to see who all is interested! Churches, clubs, coffee houses or what about an intimate show in your living room? Yes we are looking at truly taking the show to the people! Message us (on Facebook) with your email contact info and tell us what you’re thinking and where you want us to play? If we get a good enough response we may get back out on the road again! Jimmy and George touring again for the first time in over 20 years!

“Lastly we had so much fun jamming that acoustic version of “23” we are going in to the studio to record a special version of it this coming weekend to be included as a bonus track on a re-mastered and expanded version of Stay Of Execution due out on Roxx Records this Fall!

“Well let’s hear from you guys! You want to see some ‘D’ out there!”

Stay Of Execution was the fourth DELIVERANCE studio album (released on Intense Records in 1992).

Frontline Rewind Episode 36 featured an in-studio appearance with DELIVERANCE members Jimmy P. Brown (lead vocals & guitars) and George Ochoa (lead guitar). Jimmy and George played (the song) “23” (originally off Weapons Of Our Warfare) for the first time in 24 years. George still claims to be “Joe Metal” and Jimmy talks about the time he met James Hetfield of Metallica before either of them were famous…

The session included humorous stories, live guitar and vocal performance, lots of laughs and reflections on the creation of historically influential album Weapons Of Our Warfare, originally released on Frontline Records in 1990. The show celebrates a vinyl collector’s edition of the album releasing August 12th by Roxx Productions.

Frontline Rewind Episode 36 is available for listening at: www.roxxproductions.com/roxxcast/frontline-rewind-episode-36

DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks

NEWS BRIEFS

* The Christian Metal Room is a good place to discuss Christian hard rock and heavy metal: http://christianmetalroom.forumotion.com/forum

* Update from guitarist Paul May in regards to the next ATKINS MAY PROJECT album (Facebook - June 23, 2014):  “I am happy to say that the new ATKINS MAY PROJECT CD is now being mastered and will be complete this week. I'm extremely pleased with the result it's sounds cracking !!!!!  ALS (Al Atkins) vocals are great !! I'm really happy with the songs and the performances.  The album is to be titled Empire Of Destruction and the cover is once again done by the incredibly talented Rodney Matthews. I'll keep you informed as to the progress and release dates. Thanks for your patience but I hope you agree it was worth the wait.”

* “Icon” is a previously unreleased song from CROSSWIRE: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWXVqcpdM58#t=39

CROSSWIRE put out its full-length debut A World In Flame in 2010 prior to disbanding two years later.  Former CROSSWIRE member Noah Copeland is in a new group called NO LONGER SLAVES: www.facebook.com/NoLongerSlaves

* “IMPELLITTERI to headline Korea (as reported by BraveWords - July 4, 2014): “Impellitteri will be Headlining the Busan International Rock Festival in Korea on Saturday August 9th, 2014. We will also do a special show at VHall on Sunday August 10th, 2014 for a limited number of fans. We are very excited to perform in Korea as it will be our first time in the country. Impellitteri will be playing songs from all of our records including " Answer to the Master", " Wicked Maiden", "Lost in the Rain", " Power of Love", "Rat Race", " Ball and Chain", "Garden of Eden", and many more! We are also told by the concert promoter that fans should come early as they are expecting approximately 15,000 to 20,000 people at the show.  It should be great evening of music!”

“ I’m In A Cage”, Neal Morse cover by THEOCRACY: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKqTErAuw2s

“I’m In A Cage” was included as a bonus track on the Japan release of the groups third album from 2011, As The World Bleeds.

* New MILLENNIAL REIGN single, “Millennial Reign”: www.reverbnation.com/millennialreign7

“Millennial Reign” is off the group’s upcoming album entitled The God Particle.

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

THEOCRACY announce new drummer, Patrick Nickell:
Press Release / Georgia-based melodic metal band THEOCRACY is excited to announce the addition of drummer Patrick Nickell to the lineup. Patrick is originally from Nashville, TN, and brings 13 years of drumming experience to the band. His power and progressive metal background is a perfect fit for THEOCRACY, and the band is thrilled to see where this new musical union leads them.

THEOCRACY first met Patrick several years ago when he was a member of Nashville’s OBLIVION MYTH, and when the time came to begin searching for a new drummer, he was one of the first candidates they auditioned. It was immediately apparent to everyone that he was the perfect fit, both musically and personally. He has the skills to faithfully execute all of the older material, while bringing his own brand of power, finesse and flair.

To offer the fans a small glimpse of what he can do, the band recorded a “live in-studio” performance of the As the World Bleeds track "“Nailed",” which can be seen below. THEOCRACY’s first live performance with Patrick will be a private show for the Make-A-Wish Foundation in late August, followed by Midweek Mayhem at the prestigious ProgPower USA festival in Atlanta, GA, September 10.

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

M.A.P. to release concept album, From Where We Are, To Where We Will Be:

Bass & Drum Composer - Rick Mals
              Vocals & Lyrics - Tim Amos
              Guitars & Keys - Rob Perez

Press Release / Formed from the first letter of each members last name, M.A.P. also puts forth the musical concept of finding one's way to God and the path that is provided through Jesus Christ.

Knowing where you are in this life in relation to a Holy God must be dealt with by both believers and non-believers.  For the believer scripture paints the perfect path for God centered spiritual understanding and biblical wisdom to navigate this life.  For the non-believer, its usually left up to luck, fate, four leaf clovers, rabbit's feet or just simply thinking that being a good person will somehow make one's self worthy of what a holy and righteous God desires.

This 5-song concept EP titled From Where We Are, To Where We Will Be will be released in 2014.

Musically it will be creatively accessible.  Utilizing very rare amplifiers that date from 1952 to 1970, (an amp list will be highlighted in the digi-book) there will be a uniquely vintage heaviness to the sound without coming off as classic or cliche.  Rich vocal harmonies and a groove oriented rhythm section will provide an amazing foundation to showcase all of these great sounds.

Further details and first single, “Feel For You, Fell For You”, available at: www.trinityrecords.net/MAP.html

BLACK FATE signs with Ulterium Records:
Press Release / Ulterium Records are proud to announce the signing of the Greek melodic metal band BLACK FATE to the label. Their as-yet-untitled new album will be released during fall 2014 and more details will be announced soon.

Check out a short teaser for the up-coming album at: http://youtu.be/5Kto_mOKXDk

Led by the incredible vocals from Vasilis Georgiou and the technical playing from guitarist Gus Drax, BLACK FATE will surely gain attention in the scene with their new album that could be described like a mix between KAMELOT, IRON MAIDEN, DREAM THEATER and CONCEPTION.

BLACK FATE line up:

Vasilis Georgiou - Vocals
Gus Drax - Guitars
Nikos Tsintzilonis - Drums
Vasilis Liakos - Bass

BLACK FATE online: www.facebook.com/blackfategreece

NEWS BRIEFS

* The new MILLENNIAL REIGN single “Not On My Own” has been added to this year's Warriors Of Metal Festival Open Air compilation CD.  “Not On My Own” will be included as part of the groups next album The God Particle.

* NARNIA set list at Gullbranna Festivalen in Halmstad, Sweden: “Gates Of Cair Paravel (Intro)”, “Inner Sanctum”, “Show All The World”, “The Mission”, “Scared”, “Into This Game”, “Shelter Through The Pain”, “The Witch And The Lion”, “Long Live The King”, “The Awakening”, “Living Water”, “No More Shadows From The Past”

A photomontage of the groups performance can be viewed at: www.flickr.com/photos/chasid68/sets/72157645214326628

* Scott Miller uploaded a new song, “On That Day”’, from the upcoming third album of his PILGRIMSPROG project, Here I Am: http://pilgrimsprog.bandcamp.com/track/on-that-day

* Rubicon Music will release the SOUND OF ETERNITY debut Visions & Dreams in Japan on July 30, 2014 with the bonus track "Cambiar el Mundo" (Spanish version of “Call To Action").

 

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

GUARDIAN - Almost Home release date announced:
Press Release / Veteran Christian rock band GUARDIAN will release their long-awaited album, Almost Home, via iTunes and other digital outlets on July 15, 2014.

The band was chosen to be a part of new special pre-release program on iTunes where fans can pre-purchase the album 10 days prior to release at a discounted price. The album was available for pre-purchase on July 5th at a specially discounted price of $4.99, leading up to the albums official street date of July 15, where it then be available for $9.99.

Two years in the making, Almost Home is the first full-length GUARDIAN album in over 10 years. Funded by Kickstarter crowd-sourcing, the band completed the album in January of 2014 and are finally releasing it to the public.

"We are grateful to our Kickstarter backers", says bassist and founding member, David Bach. "We wanted to wait a few months to be sure we got all of our backers their copy of the album, and we're now thrilled to finally be able to release the album to the rest of the world."

Vocalist Jamie Rowe adds: "We were excited to see the album hit the iTunes rock charts on the day the pre-release began. To crack the top 100 at #98 with no label support or marketing push was humbling and exciting! The fans made it happen!"

Almost Home track listing:

1. “Boom She Said”
2. “The Real Me”
3. “Little Things”
4. “Wonderful”
5. “California Rain”
6. “Show Us What You Got (Interlude)”
7. “King Of Fools”
8. “The Calling (Interlude)”
9. “Paranoia Kills”
10. “Price We Pay”
11. “Free”
12. “Requiem Calavera (Interlude)”
13. “Almost Home”

Jamey Perrenot produced Almost Home, while Tony Palacios handled mixing duties and Mat5t mastering at Midwest Audio Mastering. 

A limited quantity of physical CD's will also be available on July 15th through the bands website: http://houseofguardian.com

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/almost-home/id894742763

Stone Groove Records update:
Press Release / Phoenix, Arizona based Stone Groove Records announces the digital release of new albums by HYPNOGOG and SWEET CICADA in addition to re-issues of older material from TYKKÜS and TROGLODYTE DAWN.  The label, founded by Randy Michaud with the goal of “specializing in doom/stoner, heavy rock, classic metal, ambient, experimental and reissues of lost underground classics”, has made available for download the following releases at the Bandcamp pages of each respective artist:

TYKKÜS - Hystorykküs Maximüs: 1985-2007
Hystorykküs Maximüs represents a complete TYKKÜS anthology by including the following:

1. RIZER (pre-TYKKÜS) 6-song EP from 1985
2. TYKKÜS 3-song 1995 demo and 2005 4-song Ümlaut EP
3. Live: Clams & All 8-song show
4. 4-demo tracks recorded with vocalist Will V

Release date: May 4, 2014

The 3-song demo and Ümlaut are also available for separate purchase.

RIZER is the original band to feature guitarist Dale Burton.  Burton later crossed paths with guitarist Justin Frear, drummer Steve Slack, bassist Brian Weldin and vocalist Randy Michaud in Phoenix, Arizona to form the initial TYKKÜS line-up.

TYKKÜS stands for Teaching You Kingdom Knowledge Unto Salvation

Commented Michaud:” I still cherish the memories of my time in the band and I feel privileged to be able to keep the legacy alive!”

TYKKÜS online: http://tykkus.bandcamp.com/music

HYPNOGOG - Syndrig Times
HYPNOGOG founder Dan Lively is West Virginia’s best kept secret when it comes to being a riff prodigy.  Accordingly, the full-length HYPNOGOG debut, Syndrig Times, comes across in the form of instrumental stoner doom with massive riffs.  The album represents a collection of live-in-the-studio improvisations with little or no doctoring, and no writing before the tape started rolling.  In other words, what you here is what the artist did, right on the spot!

The 2-song singles “Paranormal Supernature” and “Reprimand Of The Watchers” are also available from HYPNOGOG.

Release date: May 7, 2014

HYPNOGOG online: http://hypnogog.bandcamp.com

SWEET CICADA - Switch
Dan Lively is nothing if not prolific!  In addition to his improvisational jam project HYPNOGOG and playing bass for Victor Griffin’s IN-GRAVED, Lively has his own polished stoner-doom groove band SWEET CICADA.  For fans of SABBATH, KING'S X, SOUNDGARDEN and the like.  Lively’s songwriting and playing skills shine on the SWEET CICADA debut Switch, a 3-song EP re-issued by Stone Groove Records with a bonus track, “Trials”, to whet the appetite of fans for the upcoming full length sophomore release Ziklag later this year.

Release date: May 7, 2014

SWEET CICIDA online: http://sweetcicada.bandcamp.com/releases

TROGLODYTE DAWN - Troglodyte Dawn
The doom metal with ambient tendencies of Randy Michaud’s 2003 self-titled TROGLODYTE DAWN debut has been re-issued with two bonus tracks originally part of the 1995 Before The Dawn demo: A live acoustic version of “Flowers” and “Dead Man’s Switch”, an early form of the track “Fallen World”.

Also released are three new epic-length ambient singles as part of a new group of recordings called the Mystoric Series, “Ant Tattoos (Retold)”, “Zatanfallen” and “Flaatinslang” (free bonus track only available with the purchase of “Zatanfallen”).  An extended single version of the “Fallen World” suite (including all 5-sections of the piece) is also available for the first time as a single track.

Release date: April 18, 2014

TROGLODYTE DAWN online: https://troglodytedawn.bandcamp.com

Stone Groove Records online: http://bandcamp.com/stonegrooverecords/following

NEWS BRIEFS

* The 2008 Retroactive Records FAITH FACTOR full-length debut Against A Darkened Sky is scheduled to be re-issued by the band later this year.  According to vocalist Norm “Ski” Kiersznowski, the album has been re-mixed and re-mastered and will feature bonus tracks in the form of the groups 3 song demo from 2007 entitled 07/07/07.  The re-issue includes the original album artwork.

* Vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Scott Miller plans to release the third PILGRIMSPROG album, Here I Am, the latter half of 2014.  The follow up to the 2010 PILGRIMSPROG sophomore outing Do You Have Thanatophobia? offers the same formula by tastefully blending straightforward hard rock, classic rock and progressive rock with bold lyrics.

Those attending PILGRIMSPROG shows the past six months have heard many of the new songs live, including “Here I Am”, “On That Day” and “Arise O Lord”.  Another will be a progressive epic entitled “Chronicles Of Job”.  The Here I Am title track is based upon Hebrews 10:7: "Then I said, ‘Here I am - it is written about me in the scroll - I have come to do your will, my God.’” (NIV).

Follow the progress and get updates at: www.pilgrimsprog.com, www.facebook.com/pilgrimsprog & www.twitter.com/pilgrimsprog

 

INTERVIEWS

New online SONIC DIVIDE interview:
In a recent online interview with Fireworks Magazine, SONIC DIVIDE members Wayne Holden (vocals), Glenn Johnson (lead guitar) and Andy Young (keyboards) talk about the groups self-titled debut album, which it released independently late last year.  Following is an excerpt:

What response have you had on your album?
AY: Really good, when we first heard the finished product we went, “Wow, this has taken our sound to a new level”. We had exposure on Australian national radio and local Adelaide ABC radio from which we received terrific feedback. The UK first heard of us when Glenn took a video snippet of us recording the opening track ´So In Love´ and put it on YouTube; radio programmers came across it and started playing us. The former guitarist of Air Supply, David Moyse, lives in Adelaide and really loves the album and said he would see what he could do to help us. Pretty much everyone has been positive; our biggest challenge is to get people to hear us.

Read full interview: HERE

METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS

THE BRAVE to release new studio album in August:
Press Release / Lancaster, California melodic hard rockers THE BRAVE completed work on their third studio album, Rise, scheduled for an August 19, 2014 independent release.  Rise features five new BRAVE songs in addition re-recorded versions of seven BRAVE classics from the past!

The album will be available worldwide on CD and via iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Amazon and other digital outlets.   

Commented guitarist Stayce Roberts:  "Yes, we are back! I think the new record will be an amalgamation of everything our Brave fan base dug us for-- melody, shredding and great songs."

THE BRAVE describes its sound as “melodic hard rock with soaring vocals, harmonies, thunderous drums and memorable hooks” while listing GUARDIAN, JOURNEY, FEAR NOT, QUEENSRYCHE, RACER X, NIGHT RANGER, LYNCH MOB and BRIDE among its influences.

THE BRAVE came onto the music scene in 1991 and released two successful CDs with Pakaderm/Word records under the high production standards of John and Dino Elefante. The first, Battle Cries from 1992, was met with critical success and yielded over 6 top ten CCM singles, including “All Together Now”, “The Waiting”, “Just A Man” and “If That Ain't Love”.  The album was mixed by Neil Kernon, the mastermind behind QUEENSRYCHE’s Operation Mindcrime and DOKKEN’s Under Lock And Key.

With the departure of long-term front man James Salters, drummer Randy Roberts took over vocals for the 1994 THE BRAVE sophomore outing Trust.  Though more bluesy in its style, Trust solidified THE BRAVE as a serious contender, specifically as they watched the entire music landscape change before their eyes as groups like NIRVANA and SOUNDGARDEN began to turn the tides musically. 

Sadly, THE BRAVE disbanded shortly thereafter when its label, Pakaderm, picked up and left for Nashville.  The good news, however, is that THE BRAVE is back after twenty years with “new spins on BRAVE classics and a few new surprises as well!”

Rise track listing:

1. “Tell Me Now*
2. “I'm Your Reason*
3. “If That Ain't Love”
4. “Running All My Life”
5. “Dirty Water”
6. “All Together Now”
7. “The Killing Floor*
8. “Wither Me”*
9. “When You're Alone”
10. “Trust”
11. Don't*
12. Somebody*

*New songs

Rise pre-order: www.thebravemusic.com

THE BRAVE online: www.facebook.com/thebravemusicsite

JACOBS DREAM unveils new vocalist, Kevin Wright:
Press Release / Columbus, Ohio based power metal act JACOBS DREAM has announced the addition of vocalist Kevin Wright to its ranks.  He replaces long-term front man Chaz Bond, who departed JACOBS DREAM in late 2013 after having spent the previous ten years with the band.

Commented the group: “Good News. The vocalist search is complete. Kevin Wright has been selected from a wide field of worthy candidates. As we continue to work on our new material with him, we are also working on a solid set of older songs so as not to let the summer gigging season slip away. Stay tuned for more info and pictures of Kevin.  Maybe he will let us post some raw studio clips of rehearsals or tracking the new CD (Where Vultures Gather). Please welcome Kevin to the Jacobs Dream family.”

Wright offers his thoughts in regards to how he joined JACOBS DREAM: “In 2012, I was looking to get back into (music), so I put an ad on Craigslist. I (soon) got in touch with these guys who were looking to do a hair metal tribute and I thought that would be perfect. I never made any money doing originals, so I thought I would make some doing covers. The band was called Teezer, and it was a lot of fun, and I had a great time doing it and met a lot of cool people in the Columbus music scene.

“James Evans (Jacobs Dream bassist) was at one of the Teezer shows and video taped me with his phone and then played it back to the guys in JD. They didn't know my name and didn't know how to get a hold of me, but a couple of weeks later I went to a gig of a friend of mine and James was there. He approached me about joining JD, but I just wasn't interested at first. Things with Teezer kind of died down and I was trying to put something else together when John Berry contacted me. I told him no like, 2 or 3 times (LOL!).

“I actually blew it off, but something kept telling me to at least research it. I got on YouTube and Spotify and was totally blown away by the guitar work. I'm not a very good player, but I am a guitar nerd! I love all things guitar, so that guitar work spoke to me. I emailed JB and told him after listening to the music, I had changed my mind and I wanted to audition. He sent me some tracks to work with, so I came to the audition and they liked what they heard I guess.”

He goes into further detail about his background and musical influences: “I'm originally from Saint John, New Brunswick Canada. My parents used to travel and do evangelism when I was young, so I started singing on stage at around 6 years old. My father graduated from Bethany Bible College and (started) a church in Damascus, Maryland. I continued to sing in the church until I reached my teens. I wasn't allowed to listen to secular music until I was around 13, and even then it could only be pop music. I was aware of bands like KISS and Led Zeppelin and a lot of the bands that were influential to modern metal, but didn't know any of their music, so most of my early influences were pop stars like Daryl Hall, Freddy Mercury, The Bee Gees, Billy Joel, Michael McDonald, Christopher Cross etc.

“At age 16 or so, hard rock songs started coming on the radio by Billy Idol, Ratt, Def Leppard, Scorpions, Van Halen etc. I fell in love with what is now known as the "hair metal" genre and vocalists like Sebastian Bach, Axl Rose, Jani Lane, Ray Gillen, Don Dokken and Geoff Tate really took it to a different level than the stuff I was used to hearing. Most of the bands of that era were kind of party rock, so to speak. I started looking for something similar, but with serious subject matter. When I first heard Iron Maiden, they were already well established and I sought out other bands in that vein like Queensryche. For a while, Queensryche was the be all/ end all for me.

“I was in my first band at age 16, we did a cover of Men at Work's "Overkill" and I was hooked on being in a band. I was in several bands that did nothing but implode. Almost all the bands I've been in were original bands. The most notable were SNaG, we had a great demo out, but no takers. I'm good friends with them til this day. The other was a band called Sunbelly. It was a Sabbath-y type of riffs combined with a heavy soulful vocals type of thing. Things just didn't take off. I also did a lot of cover work with all different people from around the globe. I did some original work for a few folks as well. I did vocals for a project called Drawing on Scars out of Georgia, a band called CLAN out of Dallas and for a guy named Jonathan Keifert from England. When my oldest son was born, I took time off from being in bands.”

Digital audition of Kevin Wright performing the track “Stain” off Beneath The Shadows (the fifth JACOBS DREAM album from 2009): https://soundcloud.com/official-jacobs-dream/stain

JACOBS DREAM remains at work on its next album, Where Vultures Gather.

JACOBS DREAM online: http://jacobsdreamusa.wix.com/jacobs-dream & www.facebook.com/OfficialJacobsDream

Michael Sweet reveals possible name for project with George Lynch, SWEET LYNCH:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:

Press Release / Guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet of Christian hard rockers STRYPER spoke to Guitar International about his recently announced project with legendary guitarist George Lynch (T&N, DOKKEN, LYNCH MOB), bassist James Lomenzo (MEGADETH, WHITE LION, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and Brian Tichy (S.U.N., WHITESNAKE).

"It looks like we are going to go with the name SWEET LYNCH," he said. "We were debating that for a while and the label was pushing it for it. It was the brainchild of Serafino Perugino at Frontiers Records. He asked me to basically sing on this record and then I suggested producing it. I co-wrote the songs with George. I called Brian Tichy and James Lomenzo to put the band together. You'll start to hear about it in September with the first single and video. It's an incredible combination of classic '70s and '80s. You will hear some flavors of JOURNEY, BAD COMPANY, DOKKEN, VAN HALEN and STRYPER."

He added: "I love this CD. I'm super excited for people to hear this CD. I'm so proud of it.

"James and Brian are amazing musicians. They tore it up. The drums and bass are just as impressive as the guitars. Everybody really delivered… The musicianship level on this is top notch. It sounds as if we were all in the stuff playing together and we were not. Basically, George wrote some riffs about a minute to a minute and a half long. I wrote lyrics and melodies then arranged them. I cut and pasted them together in the studio. Then Brian and James came out and tracked the drums and bass, as well as some rhythm stuff. We then sent it to George to add the guitars."

Asked if there will be any live dates in support of the album, Sweet said: "We are one million percent sure there will be a tour."

Sweet in 2012 revealed that he would hit the road with T&N (formerly TOOTH AND NAIL), the project featuring current and former members of DOKKEN (George Lynch, Jeff Pilson and Mick Brown), in support of that band's debut album, Slave To The Empire, and upcoming follow-up effort. He wrote in an online posting: "It should be a blast and a lot of fun singing those classic DOKKEN tunes."

He added: "And to ease your mind, I WILL NOT be leaving STRYPER, just having some side fun with George, Jeff and Mick when this actually takes place."

Read full interview at: http://guitarinternational.com/2014/06/23/michael-sweet

NEWS BRIEFS

* “Rage”, video of new song from FRÜHSTÜCK: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1shor9tWtLc

“Rage” is taken from the groups June 2, 2014 released sophomore album Story.

* New PROMISE LAND website: http://promiselandx.com

Pre-orders are being accepted for the group’s debut album Harmony In Ruins, which is scheduled for a August 5, 2014 release: http://promiselandx.com/product-category/store

* Roxx Records July 2014 update: First and Foremost the bad news: Unfortunately, the vinyl industry is booming! (or maybe that’s good news for us vinyl enthusiasts!) But in this case it means our two new releases from Deliverance and Ultimatum are slightly delayed! The manufacturing plant is jam packed with new releases and ours are in line for pressing but will not be shipped until the first part of August, which unfortunately means we have to push our releases back a few weeks! Our revised release date will be August 12th which should give us plenty of time to get all the pre orders in your hands before the release date! We apologize for this delay but it is beyond our control and we now know to manufacture a vinyl in the US at this time we need to give a 5 or 6 month lead time for the whole production process, but these will be worth the wait as our test pressings have already shown us!

As an added bonus, we will be giving away one test pressing from Deliverance and one from Ultimatum in a random drawing for all those who already placed their pre order and for anyone else that gets in on it before they are shipped! If you have not pre ordered your copy yet get in on it now, the blue and green vinyl editions will not last, you have been forewarned!

Up next for Roxx watch for full announcements on two limited edition CD titles which will both be going through the remastered and expanded process! For the first time ever re-mastered and reissued will be two classic titles from the Frontline Records catalog, from Deliverance their classic Stay of Execution and the fourth and last title from Vengeance Rising Released Upon the Earth.  Full press releases outlining both releases are forthcoming.

Pre-order: http://roxxproductions.storenvy.com/products

Angelic Warlord Update Archives: HERE