FEATURED REVIEWS
W.A.S.P. - Golgotha - FOUR YEARS AGO
Those that suggest Golgotha represents a musical extension of the previous two W.A.S.P. releases, including Babylon but also 2007’s Dominator, have the right idea. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Mike Botello Announces Re-issue To AWAKE Debut Spiritual Warfare:
Album release: December 2019
Press Release / In the fall of 1988 Mike Botello set out on a solo project that prompted the search of a quality skilled lead guitarist. In this process, Botello ran into long time acquaintance Jesse Villegas. After meeting with Villegas, the pair found themselves working together and completed Botello’s first solo “demo” project. Soon after, Botello was accepted in the SxSW music conference in Austin, TX in the spring of 1989, which led to finding drummer Robert Moreno a.k.a. Rob Battalion and a string of bass players. With a temporary bassist and little rehearsal time plus some sound issues the showcase was, short of being a success. With the future of the project on the line and no permanent bassist, Botello & Villegas began writing together. Now with Botello on the bass the two decided to move from a solo project to a band effort. Thus, AWAKE was formed.
With the collaborative efforts between Villegas/Botello and now with Rob Battalion in full force, the trio began preparing toward their first full length Album titled Spiritual Warfare. During the summer of 89 thru the spring of 90 AWAKE achieved much success in local and regional venues with their intricate and progressive style not commonly found with your typical standard rock band of the time. Very quickly the group found themselves as an opening act for various groups such as VENGEANCE RISING, PARADOX, DELIVERANCE, KING’S X and more just to name a few. But as quickly as things progressed Awake found themselves parting ways at the eve of their debut release.
With the band no longer together their album Spiritual Warfare like the group, achieved quick success with demands for a follow up release and shows that could not be fulfilled. In a ditch effort Villegas & Botello tried to revise AWAKE in 1991 with drummer John Pace but with no success. Although AWAKE was not able to continue as a band, the now classic 1990 debut release of Spiritual Warfare lives on through the digitally re-mastered re-release on compact disc. The CD offers a bonus track of a late 92 rehearsal with drummer John Pace along with the original demo recorded version of “See Me Now” with Mike Botello on drums and on rhythm electric/acoustic guitar ending with the sounds of the very last AWAKE concert.
Spiritual Warfare (digital album): https://botellomusic.com/product/awake-spiritual-warfare-digital-cd
Spiritual Warfare (signed physicala CD): https://botellomusic.com/product/awake-spiritual-warfare-physical-cd
DENY THE FALLEN Sign With Retroactive Records For Repress Of Debut Album, Symptoms Of Eternity:
Album release: February 21, 2020
Press Release / DENY THE FALLEN is the new band featuring Rey Parra of SACRED WARRIOR, and more recently of WORLDVIEW fame. Also featured in this lineup is another SACRED WARRIOR alumni, Jonathan Johnson, with this marking their first time collaborating since 1991's Obsession release. Joining them for this release is Josh Johnson (drums), Harbor Horton (Rhythm guitars), and Erik Kyr (bassist).
What we have here is a really heavy, hard rocking album. We are talking full-speed ahead power and crunch with progressive touches throughout. It is deep, aggressive and angry sounding metal with a message. The vocals from Rey are octaves deeper than normal with more grit and gravel sounding power, with the occasional added second growl vocals here and there. Musically the album is filled with heavy riffs, shredding leads, and a totally kicking rhythm section to hold it all together. The 2020 Retroactive Records release is an eight-page insert packaged in a jewel case.
Symptoms Of Eternity track listing:
1. “Oblivion”
2. “Mortem Amici (Friendship Dies)”
3. “Hands For War” (Featuring OZ FOX from STRYPER)
4. “Symptoms Of Eternity”
5. “Predator”
6. “Murder Machine”
7. “Razin' Kane”
8. “Shelter”
9. “Rise”
10. “Burning The World” (feat BRUCE SWIFT from SACRED WARRIOR)
11. “Death Rattle”
Symptoms Of Eternity pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deny-the-fallen-symptoms-of-eternity-new-cd-2020-retroactive-records-oz-fox-ray-parra-sacred-warrior-vocalist-guitarist
Australian Rock Band SONIC DIVIDE Sign with Melodic Revolution Records:
Press Release / Melodic Revolution Records is pleased to announce that we have signed Australian Rockers SONIC DIVIDE for their sophomore release due out in early 2020.
“Sonic Divide consistently leads the way with their brand of quality rock… keep your ears to the ground as we share with you a band we have felt passionately about for some time.”
- Nick Katona
About the band:
From Adelaide Australia, SONIC DIVIDE has been applying its melodic rock flavor to the Adelaide scene for the past 10 years.
A collaboration of 6 seasoned musicians who initially formed for the purposes of infrequently jamming together for pure enjoyment, the band soon evolved into a writing project which culminated in the release of their debut album in September 2013. Labeled the ‘best independent release of the year’ at the time by a renowned radio station in the UK, the album received critical acclaim and regular airplay across the globe.
The band’s video for their hit “I Wonder” was picked up by a US-based promoter and was subsequently featured on multiple TV and online video network platforms across the US. SONIC DIVIDE was chosen to play the main stage of the Adelaide 500 national V8 Supercar race in 2015 along with John ‘Swanny’ Swan and the Zep Boys, with the guys taking a break from the live circuit later that year to begin the process of writing for their second album.
The band returned to the live scene in June 2018 and has since been performing regularly around Adelaide to rave reviews. In August 2018, the band was selected to open for US-based rockers STRYPER for the Adelaide leg of their God Damn Evil world tour and received glowing reviews on their performance.
In a statement from the band:
“Sonic Divide is truly excited and honored to be joining the Melodic Revolution Records (MRR) family. For over 10 years Sonic Divide has been passionately producing original music and looks forward to sharing their work with a global audience through collaboration with MRR. The band wishes to thank Nick Katona at MRR for this wonderful opportunity and look forward to a productive future together.”
SONIC DIVIDE lineup:
Wayne Holden - Lead Vocals
Glenn Johnson - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Andy Young - Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Ian Slade - Bass, Backing Vocals
Evan Johnson - Drums, Backing Vocals
Steve Pirie - Guitars, Backing Vocals
Discography:
TBA (2020) CD & Digital - Melodic Revolution Records
Sonic Divide (2013) CD & Digital - Self-Released
Listen // Buy // Share Links:
Bandcamp: https://sonicdivide.bandcamp.com
CD Baby: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/sonicdivide
iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/sonic-divide/762988110
Sound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/sonicdivide
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/42AvjMFpc8h1Q9FtXFVlqh
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCMKoCJ0NxNLl1jN9IX70pdQ
Follow SONIC DIVIDE:
Website: www.sonicdivide.net
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sonicdivide
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sonicdivide
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SonicDivideBand
Melodic Revolution Records: https://mrrmusic.com/sonic-divide
NEWS BRIEFS
* NARNIA, “MNFST” lyric video by Dany Gatica, winner of the Latin America fans competition “MNFST” lyric video contest: www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqjqrwoyO9c
* “Snowglobe”, official Christmas lyric video from THEOCRACY: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNPjhDeA8VA
GOLDEN RESURRECTION - Man With A Mission - EIGHT YEARS AGO
Having finally cemented its place in the upper echelon of the Christian metal scene, Sweden’s Golden Resurrection shows no signs of letter its guard down. Read Full Review >>
New THE WORLD WILL BURN Interview Online:
Angelic Warlord had the recent opportunity to interview guitarist Alan Zaring and vocalist Dale Thompson of multinational band THE WORLD WILL BURN, whom offer their thoughts in regards to the bands new album Nothing’s As Real As It Seem and the challenges of working remotely. Following is an excerpt:
How would you categorize the music of TWWB?
DALE: We are a combination of psychedelic creativity and old soul hard rock. We are not really metal since the new definition of metal has taken it to another dimension of aggressive craziness.
Read full interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
THE NEAL MORSE BAND To Release The Great Adventour - Live In Brno 2019 In March:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Press Release / THE NEAL MORSE BAND has returned to the InsideOut Music family, re-signing with the label in 2019 and announcing the release of a forthcoming new live album, The Great Adventour - Live in Brno 2019 on March 6, 2020.
Neal comments: "The band and myself are super excited to be back with our friends at InsideOut! They are great people and I'm sure it will be a fruitful relationship as it always has been."
InsideOut Music label head Thomas Waber adds: "There is obviously a lot of history between Neal and InsideOut Music and we are ready to make more history with one of the most important prog artists of our generation!"
Neal Morse (vocals, keyboards and guitars), Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals and audience cheer-leading), Randy George (bass), Bill Hubauer (keyboards and vocals) and Eric Gillette (guitars and vocals) released their latest album, The Great Adventure, at the beginning of 2019. This was the follow-up to their acclaimed 2016 concept album The Similitude Of A Dream, and shortly after, the band embarked on a European headline tour. The Great Adventour - Live in Brno 2019 documents these shows, which saw them performing the album in full, and closing with the renowned "The Great Medley"- featuring tracks from across Neal's solo career and each NEAL MORSE BAND album.
Available as a 2CD + 2Blu-ray digipak, the set also features two tour documentaries from both the U.S. and European runs, as well as the official music videos for the singles taken from The Great Adventure.
As Randy George explains: "After the 'Similitude' tour, expectations were really high, and we had more people coming to these shows than ever before. People were really excited to see it, so we had to make sure that we delivered."
Performing The Great Adventure flawlessly and in its entirety 47 times in 2019, Morse, Portnoy, George, Hubauer and Gillette brought audiences to their feet night after exhilarating night. "The tour delivered every night. We never got tired of playing it, and it always paid off," says George.
One of the countries was the Czech Republic, and it was there in Brno that the band chose to film The Great Adventour 2019 - Live In Brno, the definitive record of the tour. As George explains: "This was our first time playing in the Czech Republic and this venue had a different look and vibe: the audience also turned out to be very energetic. They loved it!"
The Great Adventour - Live In Brno 2019 shows THE NEAL MORSE BAND at the very height of their powers: extraordinary, passionate, intense and intricate rock music played to perfection by five masters of their craft, backed by dramatic video illustrations by Christian Rios.
The Great Adventour - Live in Brno 2019 track listing:
1. “Intro”
2. “Overture”
3. “The Dream Isn't Over”
4. “Welcome To The World”
5. “A Momentary Change”
6. “Dark Melody”
7. “I Got To Run”
8. “To The River”
9. “The Great Adventure”
10. “Venture In Black”
11. “Hey Ho Let's Go”
12. “Beyond The Borders”
13. “Overture 2”
14. “Long Ago”
15. “Child Of Wonder”
16. “The Dream Continues”
17. “Fighting With Destiny”
18. “Vanity Fair”
19. “Welcome To The World 2”
20. “The Element Of Fear”
21. “The Great Despair”
22. “Freedom Calling”
23. “A Love That Never Dies”
24. “The Great Medley (Encore)”
Inside Out Music online: www.insideoutmusic.com & www.facebook.com/InsideOutMusic
THE NEAL MORSE BAND online: www.nealmorseband.com & www.facebook.com/nealmorse
THE WORLD WILL BURN Premier “Sins & Tragedies” Lyric Video:
Press Release / Prolific front man Dale Thompson and his band mate Alan Zaring have announced the release of their latest and third album, entitled Nothing’s As Real As It Seems. The album features 12 new tracks, with 3 additional bonus tracks for those that purchase the album on their website, www.theworldwillburn.com
A lyric video for the track “Sins & Tragedies” can be seen above.
According to Thompson, “This was one my favorite recording projects ever. I was able to write lyrics that really provoke thought and imagery. We were able to paint a very vivid picture. It is brilliant from start to finish and certainly shows a maturity as song writers from the previous two.”
Zaring adds “I really think we recorded a game changer here. The intensity of this album is off the charts. We really figured out the difference between heavy and just loud.” Zaring continues “This collection of songs brings together in sharp focus everything we have been trying to do for the past few years. It is fresh, new and different. The emotions of this album make it very special and we could not be more proud”.
THE WORLD WILL BURN has prided themselves on creating heavy music that sounds different than everything else. Since they burst onto the scene with their debut release Severity in 2015, TWWB has continually released music that has been overwhelmingly favored by critics and fans alike. Their sophomore effort RuiNation in 2017 took their music to a new level and with it brought a new fan base and more expanded commercial success. Both of the band’s previous albums were ranked as top 10 albums by numerous reviewers in the years they were released.
“”I am excited for people to hear it and get some feedback and hopefully the music will impress, the lyrics inspire, and the Spirit will move through it to draw people closer to God”, explains Thompson.
The band has released the cover art and a preview video of the songs on the album. If the preview is any indication, THE WORLD WILL BURN may indeed have another hit record and this time, a real game changer.
Nothing’s As Real As It Seems track listing:
1. “Sins & Tragedies”
2. “Love & Life”
3. “No One Believes In Hell”
4. “Rainbow’s End”
5. “Love Fills All Things”
6. “No One Sings”
7. “Listen For The Symphony”
8. “All Hell Is Breaking Loose”
9. “Boxing Ring”
10. “It’s The Hallelujah”
11. “New Creation Man”
12. “Lead Balloon”
13. “New Life” (bonus track)
14. “Frantic” (bonus track)
15. “What Is Real” (bonus track)
THE WORLD WILL BURN online: www.theworldwillburn.com & www.facebook.com/twwbband
NEWS BRIEFS
* PASTOR BRAD, One Holy Night full lyric album: www.youtube.com/watch?v=sj6jP1nE2XA
* Top Ten RESURRECTION BAND albums: www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2kYYebq0QU
FEATURED REVIEWS
DANIEL BAND - Rise Up (Retroactive re-issue) - SEVEN YEARS AGO
Hard rock and Canada go together like sunshine and sand. Read Full Review >>
MINI REVIEWS
JAMIE ROWE - This Is Home
Vocalist Jamie Rowe has been on quite the journey as of late. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
THE BRAVE, Battle Cries CD Re-issue On Girder Music:
Album release: January 30, 2020
Press Release / Pakaderm released some of the greatest AOR melodic rockers, such as MASTEDON, GUARDIAN, FEAR NOT, HALO, X-SINNER, LOVEWAR as well as many others. John and Dino Elefante were experts at their craft. Their production was over the top and blew everything out of the water, and this first album by THE BRAVE was a clear and precise 80's rocker, hitting on all fronts. It's the ultimate ear-candy, with flying guitar work, melodies, hooks and explosive production that was second to none. It was the perfect example of what happens when you have pros in your corner, pushing for excellence. It's better than you remember, trust me, it's that good. It can still stand up to any mainstream act today. Strong vocals, attitude and more.
Battle Cries track listing;
1. “All Together Now”
2. “The Waiting”
3. “If That Aint’ Love”
4. “Running All My Life”
5. “Tears Of A Broken Heart”
6. “Little Love”
7. “Never Live Without Your Love”
8. “Big World”
9. “Ride With The Rhythm”
10. “Just A Man”
11. “All Together Now” (studio mix)
12. “Running All My Life” (studio mix)
Battle Cries pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/the-brave-battle-cries-cd
JOHN ELEFANTE, On My Way To The Sun Vinyl Re-issue On Girder Music:
Album release: February 2020
JOHN ELEFANTE (along with his brother Dino) both 3-time Grammy Award winners were the masterminds behind the 80's Christian Rock group MASTEDON. John’s career started as the lead singer of KANSAS. On 1982's Vinyl Confessions, he sang the top 10 Billboard hit, "Play the Game Tonight" that also included Roger Taylor from the band QUEEN. John and Dino also penned the monster rock hit, “Fight Fire With Fire” (off Drastic Measures from 1983).
As a producer and composer, his credits are numerous. He has produced and/or composed music for KANSAS, PETRA, BRIDE, GUARDIAN, THE BRAVE, LOVEWAR, NATALIE GRANT, BARREN CROSS, CARMEN, RICK CUA, SWEET COMFORT BAND as well as the Hit Movie Sountrack "St Elmos Fire" and so many more. It felt like every time you flipped a CD over you saw Produced by ‘John & Dino Elefante’ on the back of everything. His name is stamped on all great projects. When Christian music always seemed to fall behind mainstream/secular, John and Dino were always the exception. Everything they did was far superior and this album is no exception. Their recording studio, The Sound Kitchen, was used by VINCE GILL, BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN, FAITH HILL, TIME MCGRAW AND BON JOVI.
No wonder On My Way To The Sun sold extremely well when it dropped in 2016. This album is a pure masterpiece. Starting off with a stunning 11 minute song "This Is How The Story Goes" joined by a few of his past band mates from KANSAS, this album is a AOR masterpiece loaded with everything that John does well. Singing and production is at the forefront of this album. There is nothing on this album that you would have wanted different. Every song, every note, every bridge, every chorus, is in the right place, with explosive clarity and awesomeness. It's not some rehashed 80's sound. It's modern and fresh without losing everything you loved about MASTEDON. This is one you'll be spinning over and over and over again and now for the first time on vinyl it sounds even better. So Don't miss this chance to grab this masterpiece. However don't take my word for it, just listen to it below.
But here's a warning first... This is more that just an killer rock album. The song "This Time" tells the story of John's adopted daughter, who was nearly aborted by her birth mother.
Some tracks may be omitted due to vinyl time constraints.
On My Way To The Sun pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/black-friday-deals/products/john-elefante-on-my-way-to-the-sun-vinyl-kansas-mastedon-yellow-translucent-vinyl-limited-run
“Fly Away”, Official Video From SIGNUM REGIS:
Press Release / Melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS has released a video to the track “Fly Away”. The song is the fourth single off the group’s new album The Seal Of A New World, which was released on November 22, 2019 via Beyond The Storm Productions. It’s the first album from SIGNUM REGIS to feature new singer Jota Fortinho.
The Seal Of A New World features 12 songs. Among the 12, there are all sonic trademarks of the band. Fans can enjoy fast, melodic, heavy, mid tempo, rocking songs and also an epic ballad.
The album was mixed by bassist Ronnie König and mastered by the famous Jacob Hansen. One of the interesting aspects of the production is, that there are no triggers and drum samples on drums. The sound is 100% acoustic, which is quite rare for a band of this genre and therefore, it helps this album to stand out of the crowd. Backing vocals on the album were done by David Akesson. You can also hear 2 solos from guitarist Magnus Karlsson (PRIMAL FEAR, ALLEN/LANDE,KISKE/SOMERVILLE) and a guest vocal appearance by Eli Prinsen (THE SACRIFICED, SACRD WARRIOR).
A lyric video to the first single off Seal Of A New World, “Kings Of The Underground”, can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=69DRcxmKBfg
First and second singles include “Never Surrender” & “Prisoner’s Elegy”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-g47m_m34U & www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaPPnp7d1gE
Cover artwork attributes to Jota Fortinho.
SIGNUM REGIS line-up:
Jota Fortinho - Lead Vocals
Filip Koluš - Guitars
Ján Tupý - Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Ronnie König - Bass, Backing Vocals
Jaroslav Jančula - Drums
The Seal Of A New World track listing:
1. “Kings Of The Underground”
2. “Prisoner’s Elegy”
3. “I Always Go All-In”
4. “The City Of God”
5. “The Seal Of A New World”
6. “A Memory”
7. “Phantasmagoria”
8. “Let Freedom Ring”
9. “Never Surrender”
10. “Fly Away”, “Shalom”
11. “Scheme Of Lies” (bonus track)
The Seal Of A New World pre-order: www.signum-regis.com/shop
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/SignumRegis
NEWS BRIEFS
* AUDIOVISION uploaded a rare promo video of the song “Fruit Of Love”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJXVLCgwYCU
“Fruit Of Love” made its initial appearance on the 2010 AUDIOVISION sophomore album Focus.
* LORDCHAIN, “As Far As I Can See” official lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=llLHEnxMkx4
The song comes off the group’s upcoming album The Shadow Project, which is schedule for a January 2020 release.
* “Living Water”, official video from NARNIA: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlD2sRcSjsk
Keyboardist (STRATOVARIUS) makes a g uest appearance on a song that appears as a bonus track on the Twentieth Anniversary Edition to the second NARNA album Long Live The King.
* TRUE STRENGTH has revealed the title to its next album, The Mighty Hand Of Yahweh. It is scheduled for a summer 2020 release.
ARTIST COMMENTARY
Michael Sweet in regards to the next STRYPER album (Facebook - December 5, 2019):
“I started writing for the new Stryper album on Monday. I have 7 songs so far. I guess I’m on a roll.
“Some people have said that I should spend more time. Why? Most of the songs from our biggest selling albums were written in less than an hour. Writing songs has always come easy for me. I don’t however take that for granted. I’m very thankful for the gifts that God has given me and I always give Him the glory.
“I just wanted to let you all know that it’s sounding absolutely stellar and it will be our best! For anyone thinking “he always says that”, well I’m always right in that regard aren’t I?In all seriousness, this album will be absolutely amazing. It will make you a fan if you’re not and it will make you an even bigger fan if you are.”
FEATURED REVIEWS
WYTCH HAZEL - Prelude - TWO YEARS AGO
Wytch Hazel harnesses the synergy between new wave of British heavy metal, the hard rock twin guitar attack of Thin Lizzy and folk-rock eccentricity to Jethro Tull. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
AMOS Returns With New Official Video, “In The Storm”:
Press Release / What at first would be just a reunion to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their acclaimed album Gothic Soul paved the way for the definitive return of the legendary Brazilian band AMOST.
Currently consisting of Rodrigo Shimabukuro (vocals & bass), Evandro Vaz (guitar), Helder Domingues (guitars), Fred Oliveira (keyboard) and Rick Thibau (drums), AMOS decided to return to activities and fulfill the purpose of impacting the minds and hearts of society with their music, which remains influenced by heavy metal as well as gothic and progressive rock.
The group was recently in the studio at Fábrika and recorded 3 tracks in the 'live session' format, with “In The Storm” (opening track of Gothic Soul) released today, thus giving official start to the project.
AMOS online: www.facebook.com/amosband
Instagram: @amos_metal
YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/35ALEMD
SILOAM, Sweet Destiny Gold Disc Edition Re-issue On Retroactive Records:
Album release: February 12, 2020, on CD and limited edition vinyl (200 unit pressing)
Press Release / This is THE big monster smash-hit debut from a band that didn't survive long after the grunge onslaught! Ottawa, Canada based SILOAM is the brainchild of uber-talented drummer, Brian Lutes. Coming out of a streetwise background, Lutes became a Christian after nearly dying of a drug overdose but went back to the streets in order to work with kids and relate the Gospel to them in a credible way. For naysayers who try and claim Christian hard rock and metal was second-class to mainstream rock like SKID ROW, DEF LEPPARD and GUN N’ ROSES, we would like to introduce you to SILOAM!
In the words of music critic, Angelic Warlord, ‘Sweet Destiny flows quite well from front to back in that it includes no filler tracks. Tim Laroche decorates the album with blazing and at times distorted lead guitar work, cutting loose on “Eastern Skies” and “Deceiver” while exhibiting a bluesier side to his playing on “Child Of Mine”.’ Very Oz Fox-esque in style.
This is full-on, exceptional, melodic, commercial AOR/metal with massive hooks, killer vocals, and top shelf production. Following the release of Sweet Destiny, SILOAM became involved in the “Really Me/Stay In School” rock tour across Canada - which was also part of a Just Say No anti-drug campaign - that featured sponsorship from the likes of McDonald’s, Pepsi, major hotel chains, fuel companies and even the Canadian government. SILOAM, as a result, of this partnership, was able to tour with over a million dollars worth of staging, sound and light gear, taking its message to arenas and stadiums with audiences that literally numbered in the tens of thousands.
If you like bands that have that distinct 80's sound along the lines of STRYPER, CRYSTAVOX, GUARDIAN and HOLY SOLDIER then grabbing a copy of SILOAM’s 1991 debut release is a must! Available on vinyl for the very first time in addition to re-mastered Gold Disc Edition CD.
Sweet Destiny track listing: “Here I Am Again”, “Miss Lizzy”, “Child Of Mine”, “Chemical King (Big Fight)”, “Eastern Skies”, “Deceiver”, “After The Fire”, “Lethal Lady”, “Sweet Destiny”, “Decent Souls”
Sweet Destiny Gold Disc Edition CD pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/siloam-sweet-destiny-new-cd-gold-disc-edition-2020-retroactive
Sweet Destiny 180 Gram random color vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/siloam-sweet-destiny-new-180-gram-random-color-vinyl-2020-retroactive
TRYTAN, Sylentiger Gold Disc Edition Re-issue on Retroactive Records:
Album release: February 12, 2020, on CD and limited edition vinyl (200 unit pressing)
Press Release / After their 1987 spacey-prog rock and metal debut, TRYTAN came roaring back with Sylentiger in 1990 with heavier, proggier, and more mature AOR/metal. Many thought Sylentiger to be a perfect combination of RUSH meets FATES WARNING. Thinking-man’s metal, Sylentiger has enough ideas to fill a recording twice it's length.
Here you'll find TRYTAN’s most complex playing, with Lary Dean really shows us what an all-commanding monster on guitar he really is! Many of his solos are brilliant ascending crescendos of intuitive genius! Dean knows his guitar better than most people know themselves, making his guitar an extension of his soul in a monumental flurry of magnificent notes. Bassist Steve Robinson and drummer Jim Dobbs are right behind him, laying down a massive foundation of solidness that will withstand the test of time for Lary Dean’s soaring guitars! The combination of the three make an indisputable pinnacle of masterful talent!
Turn your stereo up loud & buckle in as the sea of music that lies within Sylentiger is nothing short of a maelstrom of swirling notes. With both musical and lyrical content escalating into an all out assault on the ears & the mind, fans get to experience the fierceness of this re-mastered tiger like never before! The 30th Anniversary Edition will be reissued as a Gold Disc Edition CD with re-mastering by Rob Colwell of Bombworks Sound.
Sylentiger track listing: “Take Cover”, “Deadly Masquerade”, “Beyond The Night’, “Star Bound”, Make Your Move”, “Sylentiger”, “Here To Stay”, “Playing With Fire”, “Life Goes On”, “Waking The Giant”, “By My Spirit”
Sylentiger Gold Disc Edition CD pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/trytan-sylentiger-new-gold-disc-edition-cd-2020-retroactive-gold-disc-edition
Sylentiger 180 Gram random color vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/trytan-sylentiger-bundle-gold-disc-cd-180-gram-random-color-vinyl-2020-retroactive-limited-200-units
NEWS BRIEFS
* SARDIS will be releasing a new EP entitled Viral on December 2, 2019. The official video for a song off the EP entitled “Gremlin” can be streamed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaACES8DChw
Further commentary from the group:
“If you didn't know, it's a take on the classic Twilight Zone episode "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet." Have you seen it? There were actually 2 versions of it, the original with William Shatner, and another version in the movie, with John Lithgow.
“We hope you enjoy it; we definitely enjoyed making it, especially as a funny, exaggerated take on the 'old-time' production style.”
Viral can be pre-ordered at the SARDIS Bandcamp page: https://sardisband.bandcamp.com
ARTIST COMMENTARY
Vocalist Chaz Bond in regards to the future of BIOGENESIS (Facebook - November 24, 2019):
“Well, hello again my fellow Bio Freaks... It has been more than 20 years since I became inspired to begin the formation of a new band that would somehow blend the beauty of melody with the sheer force and power of heavy. The band that I would end up naming BioGenesis. Myself and original drummer Joe Jonker went into a local studio using my tax return to pay for the hours. We recorded a demo as BioGenesis. We eventually got some play on a local radio station, which was enough to make people curious about the band. Soon after I called long time guitarist James Riggs. We again went into a local studio to record with James on guitar. That demo landed us a contract with Rowe Productions and shortly after Nevin Cline replaced Joe and Randy Walton became the bassist.
“The Mark Bleeds Through was released in 2001, and the BioG you fans came to know was officially born. The years were not always kind- there were many pitfalls along the winding road, and members coming and going. I had members try to kick me out of the very band that I formed. At one point a member even tried to sign his own name on a new recording contract in order to take over the rights. That was many years ago, but I guess the point is that being founder hasn't always been easy; in fact sometimes I wish that responsibility was not on my shoulders.
“When the latest lineup of Bio suddenly came to a abrupt end, I once again had a decision to make. At first I was simply going to close the book on BioG for good. However God said NO. He is not done with BioGenesis and so neither am I. So here's to the next great chapter in this long and laboring journey if mine…
“This new era will be different because for the first time in our history, two of the members do not live in Ohio, so therefore this will be an album only unless a big festival makes all of us the right offer. That being said, here they are:
Guitar- Tiago James
Tiago is the guitarist for California's HAND OF FIRE as well as PERPETUAL PARANOIA and other projects. He will also be producing the next Bio album.
Bass - Manny Morales
Long time bassist for DELIVERANCE, and also bassist for Jimmy P. Brown II. Jimmy often refers to Manny as his right hand man. I grew up as a huge Deliverance fan and so it is a huge honor to have him aboard!
Drums - Andy Hall
Local pro drummer who will blow your mind with his skills...Andy and I were In a local band called Human Paradox for several years. He has played for many great bands and I'm excited to have him working with us...
“What to expect? Bio is ever changing. Anytime you have a member change, the overall sound will shift. However, we will always keep that hybrid thing going. This will be a concept album. I can't give to much away at this time but it will be a lyrical journey of awakening from deception, fighting to survive, overcoming guilt and tragedy in the darkest of places only to come out the other side reborn a new as a shining light for others who are lost in darkness to see that HOPE is REAL..
Musically? Get ready for HEAVY… VERY!”
FEATURED REVIEWS
SAINT - Warriors Of The Son 04 (Retroactive re-issue) - FIVE YEARS AGO
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 >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
DELIVERANCE, Stay Of Execution Gold Disc Edition On Retroactive Records:
Album release: November 26, 2019- on CD and as a limited edition 200-unit vinyl pressing
Note: The advantage of the gold reflection layer is its increased resistance to corrosion, in contrast to the ordinary aluminium layer found on normal compact discs. Due to concerns over the incidence of CD rot on early CDs, gold CDs were thus seen as a potential solution.
Press Release / Some monumental progressive thrash that delivers a multitude of metallic fury in exquisite fashion, Stay of Execution launched the band one step towards the era that would be known as the creative years, while maintaining the epic metal sound that fans expected. The hooks, the riffs, the lyrics all took fans by surprise. We had never heard such artistic thrashing before, and boy, did Stay of Execution hit the spot! The gold disc edition is limited to just 300 copies, 6 panel fold with band pics, and re-mastered from scratch for the maximum ear candy experience.
Formed in 1985 in Southern California, DELIVERANCE was one of the earliest speed metal bands on the scene to be overtly singing about Christian ideology. Their self-titled album and the follow-up Weapons of our Warfare are considered classics of the speed metal genre. Their third album titled What A Joke featured several short joke songs, several very cool cover songs, and lots of epic thrashing.
Stay of Execution was the fourth album from DELIVERANCE and featured a new line-up. Replacing guitarist George Ochoa is shredder Mike Phillips. Bassist Mike Grato (ex-RECON) is on board for part of the writing and recording but is replaced by original bassist Brian Khairullah. Stay... marks a return to form, even if it strays from the strict speed metal definition.
This album features more focused songwriting and avoids the silliness of What A Joke. It’s also slightly more technical and melodic than any of their past albums. The music is driven by some big, killer riffs given life by a beefy Mesa Boogie guitar tone. The album introduced us to Jimmy Brown’s new “David Bowie” vocal style. “Ramming Speed” is a killer, SLOW and plodding song! (Ironic title, huh?) “Entombed” is a full on speed metal onslaught. “Stay of Execution” is still one of the best DELIVERANCE songs ever - featuring a huge riff and even bigger hook. The remix of “Weapons…” was an attempt by the original record label to keep the MTV music video alive.
Stay of Execution remains a favorite of both critics and fans. Few albums deserve the Retroactive Records Gold Disc Edition treatment more than this one. Stay... remains a critical part of Christian heavy metal royalty, taking heavy music to places no one ever thought possible.
Stay Of Execution track listing:
1. “Stay Of Execution”
2. “Windows Of The Soul”
3. “Words To The…”
4. “From Once Was”
5. “Self Monger”
6. “Horrendous Disc”
7. “Lord Of Dreams”
8. “Ramming Speed”
9. “Entombed”
10. “Weapons Of Our Warfare” (remix)
Stay Of Execution Gold Disc Edition CD pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deliverance-stay-of-execution-gold-disc-edition-new-cd-2019-retroactive-limited-to-300-copies
Stay Of Execution 180 Gram random color vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deliverance-stay-of-execution-new-180-gram-random-color-vinyl-retroactive
Retroactive Records Announce New PERPTUAL PARANOIA Album, Between The Altar & The Cross:
Album release: December 20, 2019
Press Release / Tiago James de Souza was first known as guitarist for the bay area thrash band, HAND OF FIRE. Dale Thompson was first known as the vocalist for Christian hard rock legends, BRIDE. They have teamed up for their second album of heavy metal enchantment. We say “enchantment” because this slab-o-metal is more dangerous and packed full of more pure magic than an enchanted forest. Trust us – this one is a maturation of the brilliance of the band’s 2018 debut, The Reapers.
Let’s talk about the guitars on this album. They are instantly recognizable as Tiago is a jazz musician with an electric magic wand in his hands - far more than predictable, by-the-numbers heavy metal. Expect occasional soft intros that lead into heavy, driving riffs, along with odd chord progressions and key changes that keep the listener entranced on what’s coming next. There are multiple completely memorable solos on this album that take excellent songs to even higher levels. Tiago’s guitar work is second to none.
As if the album could not get better, Between The Altar And The Cross also features guest axe-men Juninho Afram (OFICINA G3 of Brazil), Paul Jackson (BLOODGOOD), Oz Fox (STRYPER) and Troy Thompson (BRIDE). You will also hear the talent of guest vocalists, JT (METAL NOBRE), Les Carlsen (BLOODGOOD), and Chaz Bond (BIOGENESIS). The band spared nothing on this album.
Dale’s vocals are as aggressive as ever - daring, mesmerizing, and leading the listener deeper into the enchanted forest of metal. Be careful - there are fire-breathing dragons in that forest, and we promise Between The Altar And The Cross will take you to places you did not know existed. 12 tracks packaged in an 8-page insert and a jewel case.
Cover art attributes to Rafael Tavares, while Juan Urteaga handled mix and mastering.
Between The Altar & The Cross track listing:
1. “Trampled Under Feet”
2. “Between The Altar And The Cross”
3. “Sin Machine”
4. “Living With The Gods”
5. ”Perpetual Paranoia”
6. “Though He Slay Me”
7. “There Will Be Blood”
8. “In Vain”
9. “My God My God”
10. “Church Of Make Believe”
11. “The Rhema”
12. “Acapella”
Between The Altar & The Cross pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/perpetual-paranoia-between-the-altar-and-the-cross-new-cd-2019-retroactive-records-brides-dale-thompson-tiago-of-hand-of-fire
PERPETUAL PARANOIA online: www.facebook.com/PerpetualParanoia
NEWS BRIEFS
* Heaven’s Metal online interview with Michael Bloodgood, Les Carlsen and Paul Jackson of BLOODGOOD: http://dougvanpelt.wixsite.com/heavens-metal-mag/single-post/2019/11/02/BLOODGOOD-On-the-Big-Screen
* ”Always Falling”, official lyric video from Jimmy P. Brown II: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzTtHo9x5vA
The artist recently offered a YouTube update: www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3s0aRvMQos
* DELIVERANCE live at Austin Opera House, 06/12/1990: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBWrQXZLalE
ARTIST COMMENTARY
Jimmy P. Brown II offers his thoughts in regards to the DELIVERANCE back catalog (Christian Metal Realm - November 14, 2019):
Thanks for the kind words on all manner of D works. Especially the kind words of Hear What I Say...
I haven’t listened much to any of the material I’ve recorded over the last 3 decades... But when preparing for shows, and trying to reinvent something, I thought it was important to do so finally, so I will give you all my thoughts and summations on the body of work from my 34 year old baby called Deliverance...
Greetings of Death Demo -
I absolutely love this thing! It was us in raw form. No studio tricks, no gimmicks, it’s what we sounded like when you went to a show! Young, full of heart and just pure fun!
Self Titled -
This is where the turtle wax was applied vigorously to the Greetings… sound. But, it was still us. Just under the seasoned wings of veteran producer Bill Metoyer... What I enjoy most is what I think every “return to form” album attempt is missing. Aggression meets Melody! This album is a very important centerpiece for me, and it was nice to revisit it after so many years...
Weapons of our Warfare -
A phenomenon and enigma to me! I feel that the era, time and place factor, and lack of musical choices for thrashing young believers was thin. And this fit the bill quite nicely! It didn’t scare parents of teenagers with growls and grunts! You could actually discern the lyrics. It was a safe album to play at church, home, school and clubs! But, with the exception of a few songs, I don’t feel it is that strong of an effort... And, if you only knew the behind the scenes issues, and all the things that ultimately had to be handed over to Bill Metoyer to mix and fix, maybe it wouldn’t be hailed as much... Nonetheless, as the majority writer of the album, I accept the praise and cheers just like anything else as graciously as I can... I just don’t see it as the album that deserves the most attention... But, I was the artist, not the record buyer... So who am I to judge?
What A Joke -
Meh... some strong songs, some incredibly stupid ideas, and a terrible production... Had it been released as an E.P with only the strong non-comical songs, I think it may have been a worthwhile listen... On a more personal note, I have to say my wrist was on fire for that album! The rhythms and riffs were probably my finest hour as far as that style of thrash playing goes...
Stay of Execution -
As an exploratory transitional album goes, I think it’s pretty cool... Some very cool moments! And some not so cool moments! It was a learning curve, and you can really tell I was trying to find something musically... But the digging had just begun... There are some wonderful songs on there though...
Learn -
I read a comment on this thread that said this album was “boring”... LMAO!!! I couldn’t agree more... The search was continually happening for what I wanted and was hearing in my head, but just couldn’t quite realize it... The last two tracks are the standouts for me, primarily “Sanctuary”...
River Disturbance-
Another on the Most Hated Lists of the D catalog... However, my favorite above all of them... It had intense and amazing moments, the recording process was magical, and it was a moment in time that I’ll never forget... I loved recording that album more than anyone can know. And I think for an album that didn’t use any external EQ, only micing techniques and compression, it’s sonically amazing for 1994... The metal head that wanted heavy and fast just wasn’t going to appreciate this offering... I knew it then, and still see it now... Doesn’t matter though... This was an album I recorded for me as an artist... Not for the praise and cheers, but just for me and my mates to enjoy... I am very proud of this record to this very day... Always will be...
Camelot In Smithereens -
My first time at the helm of production. I was inexperienced! Had the tiniest budget ever known to a Deliverance album. All the sampling lawsuits were taxing the labels. And I wanted to make a concept album! In the end, it was destroyed, and I didn’t even care halfway through the recording anymore. The label had made its decree about all the samples, the book was denied, I didn’t have the musicians I wanted on the album except for Manny (Morales, bass), and my vision had been trampled underfoot...
But the ReDux is going to fix all that...
Assimilation-
Never should’ve happened. I had a few good songs, but the situation was wrong, the production was wrong, the band was wrong, everything was wrong... And, it just should’ve never happened... Not then at least...
As Above So Below -
It was fun to work with Mike Phillips (guitars) again... But overall, the album suffered from bad production and lack of coherency with the songs... But there are some cool moments on the album, and to be honest Mike Phillips did NOT receive the accolades he deserved for his work on that album. His solos were just perfect!
Hear What I Say -
Manny came back, Jason Sherlock graciously accepted our invitation, Mike Phillips returned, and I was somewhere lost in the middle... it started out exactly where I wanted, then work got busier and busier, and what was supposed to be an enigmatic thrash album like with the first few songs, it just took a nose dive... Kinda sad really... But I do like the Maiden cover a lot... It was fun...
The Subversive Kind -
I agree with most of what has been said about this release:
1. Doesn’t sound like Deliverance. Correct, it doesn’t...
2. It wasn’t a return to the original sound. Correct. It really wasn’t as I had forgotten what the original sound of D was...
3. The writing was weak. Yep! I couldn’t agree more. My head just wasn’t there honestly.
I do think that Jim (Chaffin, drums), Victor (Macias, bass), Glenn (Rogers, guitars) and myself made a great little E.P. It just wasn’t what was promised- a return to the old days of Deliverance... There were similarities, but it just wasn’t it...
Now, I want to say something without sounding like an arrogant prick. But Brian Khairullah and (the late) Chris Hyde (if he were here) can back me up on this statement! I have always been the 90% writer if not 100%... I would use parts, also use full songs of others like “Temporary Insanity” music by Glenn Rogers, “Slay The Wicked”, “Bought by Blood” music and lyrics by George Ochoa.
So when I read statements like “Jimmy suffered from not having a writing partner on this or that album”, I take it as a bit of an insult. Deliverance was a band! And the guys who had the most stake claimed in it were Brian Khairullah and Chris Hyde in the early days, then Manny Morales in the latter days... But I have always been the principle songwriter, and never depended on anyone to help me except for my producer. And I’ve worked with some great producers; John and Dino Elefante, Bill Metoyer, George Ochoa and Terry Scott Taylor. I depended on them for their advice, arrangements, input, etc... So when I read statements like that, it just creams my corn...
Well, it was nice visiting with you all... I want to thank you all for the kind words on my solo efforts, Fearful Symmetry, Jupiter VI and Jimmy P. Brown II... They’re all my solo work, just used band names because I hate my name... LOL... But it’s much easier now to just go under my name...
Take care all, come by and visit me whenever you have time...
Cheers,
JPBII
www.jpbii.com
www.youtube.com/c/JimmyPBrownII
Further reading: http://thecmr.forumotion.com/t11415-deliverance-jimmy-can-still-sing-and-what-could-have-been
FEATURED REVIEWS
ANGELICA - Without Words
Angelica’s pivotal step into the instrumental end of the hard music landscape with the summer of 2019 Girder Music release of its aptly entitled fifth album Without Words, is melodic, sensible and a serious contender to rank within the top ten albums of the year. Read Full Review >>
EVANS & STOKES - Children Of God
Third Evans & Stokes full length Children Of God from the fall of 2019 further separates as the groups most varied to date. Read Full Review >>
FAITH HEAD - Genesys
If change is inevitable and change is good, then such is the case with Faith Head and its independent spring of 2019 sophomore EP Genesys. Read Full Review >>
NEAL MORSE - Jesus Christ - The Exorcist
Which leads to Morse’s latest solo album, the Frontiers Records June of 2019 released progressive rock opera Jesus Christ - The Exorcist, a two CD set comprising two hours of music that in written and produced by Morse and featuring an all-star cast of vocalists and musicians tells the Story of Stories. Read Full Review >>
RED SEA - Blood (Roxx Records re-issue)
One of the few bands from the period to restore faith in all things metal and hard rock was Red Sea and its dynamic spring of 1994 Rugged Records debut Blood. Read Full Review >>
MICHAEL SWEET - Ten
It’s never a surprise to see a musical project to involve vocalist and guitarist Michael Sweet receive (at minimum) a 90% Angelic Warlord review. Read Full Review >>
WEAPONS OF GOD - Weapons Of God
Playing what it describes as ‘positive metal’, noting its faith based lyrical approach, but actually amalgamating equal parts traditional and melodic metal with suggestions of straightforward hard rock and even doom, Weapons Of God reflects its musical influences (as noted in its press material) in no uncertain terms: Kiss, Stryper, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and Evergrey. Read Full Review >>
WHITERAY - The Collected Works (Retroactive re-issue)
Whiteray is another in a long line of talented late-eighties to early nineties melodic metal bands that potentially got lost in the shuffle of a crowded hard music scene, which is quite a shame. Read Full Review >>
ROB ROCK - The Voice Of Melodic Metal, Live In Atlanta - TEN YEARS AGO
The most accurate way to describe The Voice Of Melodic Metal – Live In Atlanta would be a “best of” retrospective of his solo material performed live. Yes, there is a heavy slant towards his two most recent albums, three and five songs each from Holy Hell and Garden Of Chaos respectively, but Rage Of Creation (two songs) and Eyes Of Eternity (one song) are represented as well. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
SIGNUM REGIS Unveils “Prisoner’s Elegy” Official Video:
Press Release / Melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS has released a video to the track “Prisoner’s Elegy”. The song is the third single off the group’s new album The Seal Of A New World, which is scheduled for release on November 22, 2019 via Beyond The Storm Productions. It’s the first album from SIGNUM REGIS to feature new singer Jota Fortinho.
The Seal Of A New World features 12 songs. Among the 12, there are all sonic trademarks of the band. Fans can enjoy fast, melodic, heavy, mid tempo, rocking songs and also an epic ballad.
The album was mixed by bassist Ronnie König and mastered by the famous Jacob Hansen. One of the interesting aspects of the production is, that there are no triggers and drum samples on drums. The sound is 100% acoustic, which is quite rare for a band of this genre and therefore, it helps this album to stand out of the crowd. Backing vocals on the album were done by David Akesson. You can also hear 2 solos from guitarist Magnus Karlsson (PRIMAL FEAR, ALLEN/LANDE,KISKE/SOMERVILLE) and a guest vocal appearance by Eli Prinsen (THE SACRIFICED, SACRD WARRIOR).
A lyric video to the first single off Seal Of A New World, “Kings Of The Underground”, can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=69DRcxmKBfg
“Never Surrender” is the second single: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-g47m_m34U
Cover artwork attributes to Jota Fortinho.
SIGNUM REGIS line-up:
Jota Fortinho - Lead Vocals
Filip Koluš - Guitars
Ján Tupý - Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Ronnie König - Bass, Backing Vocals
Jaroslav Jančula - Drums
The Seal Of A New World track listing:
1. “Kings Of The Underground”
2. “Prisoner’s Elegy”
3. “I Always Go All-In”
4. “The City Of God”
5. “The Seal Of A New World”
6. “A Memory”
7. “Phantasmagoria”
8. “Let Freedom Ring”
9. “Never Surrender”
10. “Fly Away”, “Shalom”
11. “Scheme Of Lies” (bonus track)
The Seal Of A New World pre-order: www.signum-regis.com/shop
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/SignumRegis
NEWS BRIEFS
* JOSHUA’S CREED recently released a re-imagined version to the holiday song “We Three Kings”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2Pjww7gisg
* Vocalist Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE) guests on the latest single from RAINFORCE, “In Good Hands”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGSxvLqhqM4
* “When The Heartache Is Gone”, new single from REVOLUTION SAINTS: www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8sJV-rTO8s
The REVOLUTION SAINTS lineup includes Deen Castronovo (drums & lead vocals), Doug Aldrich (guitar), & Jack Blades (bass & vocals). Further details in the 90% Angelic Warlord review of the group’s 2017 sophomore album Light In The Dark: www.angelicwarlord.com/reviews/r/revolutionsaints17.html
* WE ARE RESOLUTE (W.A.R.), the latest project from vocalist DALE THOMPSON (BRIDE, THE WORLD WILL BURN), premiered this past week a lyric video to the song “Your Enemy”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA3J5NSnjkQ
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
THE WORLD WILL BURN Announce New Album, Nothing’s As Real As It Seems:
Album release: Fall 2019
Prolific front man Dale Thompson and his band mate Alan Zaring have announced the release of their latest and third album, entitled Nothing’s As Real As It Seems. The album features 12 new tracks, with 3 additional bonus tracks for those that purchase the album on their website, www.theworldwillburn.com
According to Thompson, “This was one my favorite recording projects ever. I was able to write lyrics that really provoke thought and imagery. We were able to paint a very vivid picture. It is brilliant from start to finish and certainly shows a maturity as song writers from the previous two.”
Zaring adds “I really think we recorded a game changer here. The intensity of this album is off the charts. We really figured out the difference between heavy and just loud.” Zaring continues “This collection of songs brings together in sharp focus everything we have been trying to do for the past few years. It is fresh, new and different. The emotions of this album make it very special and we could not be more proud”.
THE WORLD WILL BURN has prided themselves on creating heavy music that sounds different than everything else. Since they burst onto the scene with their debut release Severity in 2015, TWWB has continually released music that has been overwhelmingly favored by critics and fans alike. Their sophomore effort RuiNation in 2017 took their music to a new level and with it brought a new fan base and more expanded commercial success. Both of the band’s previous albums were ranked as top 10 albums by numerous reviewers in the years they were released.
“”I am excited for people to hear it and get some feedback and hopefully the music will impress, the lyrics inspire, and the Spirit will move through it to draw people closer to God”, explains Thompson.
The band has released the cover art and a preview video of the songs on the album. If the preview is any indication, THE WORLD WILL BURN may indeed have another hit record and this time, a real game changer.
Nothing’s As Real As It Seems track listing:
1. “Sins & Tragedies”
2. “Love & Life”
3. “No One Believes In Hell”
4. “Rainbow’s End”
5. “Love Fills All Things”
6. “No One Sings”
7. “Listen For The Symphony”
8. “All Hell Is Breaking Loose”
9. “Boxing Ring”
10. “It’s The Hallelujah”
11. “New Creation Man”
12. “Lead Balloon”
13. “New Life” (bonus track)
14. “Frantic” (bonus track)
15. “What Is Real” (bonus track)
You can pre-order the album on the bands website: www.theworldwillburn.com/store
Debut Solo Album From LARRY WORLEY & FRIENDS, Testify:
Album release: November 8, 2019
You may remeber the classic Christian rock band LOVE LIFE? How about the band FEAR NOT? Well if you do then you are more than familiar with vocalist Larry Worley. Larry has worked and sung on quite a few very well known projects like LOVE LIFE and FEAR NOT! As well he just released the brand new FEAR NOT EP entitled For The Wounded Hearts, which was released to great reviews this past year. Larry also sang on the debut solo album of Robert Sweet of STRYPER entitled Love Trash, but you have not heard Larry like this before.
On November 8, we will release the debut solo album from LARRY WORLEY & FRIENDS entitled Testify. Testify has been a project that Larry has had in mind and wanted to do for years and finally had the opportunity to record and complete this labor of love. Get ready to hear this amazing new release entitled Testify as he puts his vocals and musical styling on 10 great inspirational tunes that we all know and love. Larry takes these tunes to a whole new level and is excited to finally get to bring this album to fruition as it has been something he has envisioned working on for nearly 10 years.
Check out the just released second single and lyric video for the track “Bring The Rain” (above) and be sure to request the new song on all your favorite Christian radio stations.
Also check out the first released single “Lead Me To The Cross”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqR4fZ8ju_M
Releasing on November 8 at all your favorite physical product distributor sites or shipping now exclusively at our Roxx Records site. We still have a handful of a beautiful 11 x 17 Limited Edition promotional poster while supplies last up until the official release date.
Testify track listing:
1. “This is Amazing Grace”
2. “Oh Come To The Alter”
3. “The Way”
4. “Let My Words Be Few”
5. “Bring The Rain”
6. “Lead Me To The Cross”
7. “Stand In Your Love”
8. “Redeemed”
9. “The More I Seek You”
10. “Amazing Love”
Testify pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/larry-worley-friends-testify
NEWS BRIEFS
* LEAH, “Light Of The World” official lyric video off her new album Ancient Winter: www.youtube.com/watch?v=do5LvwfqzSw
Ancient Winter is schedule for release on November 15, 2019.
* “Sin Mañana”, official lyric video from TSIDKENU: www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLsgPyssRWo
The song comes off the Honduras based groups upcoming third album (scheduled for 2020 release) entitled Apocalipsys Magna.
INTERVIEWS
New ROB ROCK Interview Online:
In a recent online interview with The Pure Metal Fan, vocalist Rob Rock goes into detail about the new IMPELLITTERI album The Nature Of The Beast, his faith and possibility of a new solo album. Following is an except:
Who came up with the ‘beasts and monsters’ theme for The Nature of the Beast?
Chris had the original thoughts on the title and from there is just kind of evolved into a theme. It was not intentional from the start but naturally occurred during the writing process. Even though there is no song with that title, I reference the theme in several songs, which became a thread that kind of runs through the album.
Read full interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Limited Run Vinyl:
Press Release / Roxx Records, Boones Overstock, NoLifeTilMetal Records and Girder Music have teamed up to bring you very exclusive limited run vinyl. Limited Run Vinyl is short run vinyl that is limited to just 100 or 200 copies. All Limited Run Vinyl are pressed in a cool random color. They are all 180 Gram, poly-lined black inner sleeves, completely re-mastered for vinyl and come with RipStream.
ANGELICA - Angelica (200 Units):
Angelica was one of those 80's cult releases that brought in fans from all over the globe and the brainchild of guitarist extraordinaire, Dennis Cameron. Their self-titled debut is the only one to feature the voice of melodic metal, Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI) on all but the last track, sung by Ken Tamplin (SHOUT).
Angelica LRV pre-order (Girder Music): https://girdermusic.com/products/angelica-vinyl-200-unit-pressing
ANGELICA - Rock, Stock & Barrel (200 Units):
A true fan favorite, with the band’s third album, Rock, Stock & Barrel axe man extraordinaire, Dennis Cameron and co. bring everything together in a dynamic and mesmerizing fashion. Few AOR/hard rock albums had the impact of RS & B as everything went nuts with the release of the hit song, "Cover Me." Available now for the very first time on vinyl.
Rock, Stock & Barrel LRV pre-order (Girder Music): https://girdermusic.com/collections/limited-run/products/angelica-rock-stock-barrel-colored-180-gram-vinyl-limited-150-units
BRIDE - Silence Is Madness (200 Units):
As majestic, haunting, and truly authentic as BRIDE has ever been. Long out-of-print and unavailable. For fans of STRYPER, WHITECROSS, WARRANT & GUNS N’ ROSES.
Silence Is Madness LRV pre-order (Boones Overstock): https://boonesoverstock.com/products/bride-silence-is-madness-limited-run-vinyl-new-2019-retroactive
DELIVERANCE - Stay Of Execution (200 Units):
Some monumental progressive thrash that delivers a multitude of metallic fury in exquisite fashion. Stay of Execution launched the band one-step towards the era that would be knows as the creative years, while maintaining the epic metal sound that fans expected.
Stay Of Execution LRV pre-order (Boones Overstock): https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/pre-orders/products/deliverance-stay-of-execution-new-180-gram-random-color-vinyl-retroactive
IDLE CURE - Inside Out (200 Units):
Inside Out - a release that exploded onto the scene in 1991 with hooks to make DEF LEPPARD fans blush, Yes, it’s that good! This is no-brainer, sell-something-to-get-it, do-whatever-it-takes-to-obtain-it, must-have AOR melodic hard rock. This elite album is on vinyl for the very first time, ever. Snooze on this, and you will give an open invitation to regret. Be one of the lucky ones.
Inside Out LRV pre-order (Girder Music): https://girdermusic.com/collections/limited-run/products/idle-cure-inside-out-colored-180-gram-vinyl-limited-100-units
MAGDALLAN - Big Bang (100 Units):
First time ever on vinyl. This guitar masterpiece originally released in 1992. It features Ken Tamplin (SHOUT) Lanny Cordola, (HOUSE OF LORDS). 100 Unit Pressing in a random color vinyl with a black poly-lined sleeve.
Big Bang LRV pre-order (Girder Music): https://girdermusic.com/products/magdallan-big-bang-vinyl
SACRED WARRIOR - Obsessions (200 units):
To quote Jonathan “Doc” Swank from the Heaven’s Metal Top 100 Christian Metal Albums Of All-Time list (where Obsessions ranked #7): “Christendom’s best power metal band ever hit their high-water mark with this collection of songs which perfectly blended QUEENSRYCHE, IRON MAIDEN and their unique and inspiring take on the scene.” This is Obsessions first time ever on vinyl. They won't last long.
Obsessions LRV pre-order (Boones Overstock): https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/limited-run-vinyl/products/sacred-warrior-obsessions-limited-run-vinyl
SHOUT - In Your Face (100 Units):
A full throttle album that never lets up. Flying virtuoso guitar work at its best. FIRST TIME ON VINYL IN THE USA. It's going to sound amazing. In Your Face won a Dove Award for hard rock song of the Year in 1990 and you're about to understand why. Ken Tamplin and Chuck King are guitar duo like no other.
In Your Face LRV pre-order (Girder Music): https://girdermusic.com/products/shout-in-your-face-colored-vinyl-limited-run-vinyl-200-units
ARTIST COMMENTARY
LEAH in regards to the lyrical direction of her new album (November 15, 2019 release) Ancient Winter:
“I recently did an interview and was asked if (Ancient Winter) had some religious references in it, particularly the song “Light of the World” (which will be released Nov. 1st!).
“The answer is YES.
“Since this is a holiday/Winter album, naturally the original Christmas story came up for me. I didn't approach it with a "have-to" mindset, but rather let the lyrics and themes bubble up naturally.
“When I wrote the new upcoming single “Light of the World” I had images of the Magi (wisemen) from the East in mind... and then you'll notice a shift in character and mood in the chorus when it goes to "I am the light of the world".... I hope you can imagine a night sky filled with an angelic host and light abounding.
“You'll find out soon enough what you think and how the music moves you!”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
IDLE CURE Re-issues On Girder Music:
Album Release: December 2019
Maybe you have seen it - but IDLE CURE’s picture is in the dictionary under “ear candy” for a reason. Get ready to crank the volume. All five IDLE CURE albums have been re-mastered and will come packaged in a jewel case with 6 panel fold-out. Sweet harmonies, slick production, razor sharp guitars, huge hooks, and spot-on vocals are enhanced beyond perfection. Get these classic reissues while you can, and you'll also enjoy the bonus song “Break Out Of The Night”.
IDLE CURE was an arena rock band from southern California similar to bands like DEF LEPPARD, FOREIGNER, LOVERBOY, NIGHT RANGER, JOURNEY, SHOUT, DEGARMO & KEY and WHITEHEART.
Before the famous self-titled album IDLE CURE dropped in 1986, Chuck King (guitarist),Mark Ambrose (guitarist), and Steve Shannon (vocals) were in a band called EDEN. EDEN recorded the hit song, “Break out of the Night” for the Back to The Rock #2 compilation in 1983. That song was written by Roger Charles. The beginnings of IDLE CURE actually started with Roger's band SOJOURN back in 1979, and included Mark Ambrose and Steve Shannon. EDEN recorded their first songs in the John Elefante Studio. Mark Ambrose led John Elefante to the Lord. When SOJOURN (pre-EDEN) went on tour, their current guitarist couldn't travel with them, so they asked Chuck King (who went on to play with SHOUT) to play guitar. SOJOURN fell apart. Chuck and Roger Charles stayed together and started the band EDEN. While recording, their singer couldn't sing the high notes, so Roger Charles called Steve Shannon at 10pm, and Steve came over and recorded the song for the Back to the Rock #2 compilation. It was the only song ever recorded by the band and is now included as the 10th song on this album. From there, Idle Cure was born.
In 1986, IDLE CURE launched their self-titled album on the newly formed Frontline Records. The response was both remarkable and immediate. “Breakaway” was a runaway hit on major Christian Rock radio stations and could have fit perfectly on DEF LEPPARD's Pyromania album. All the members played in previous mainstream bands, which explains why they were able to build that arena rock sound.
By 1990, Idle Cure was dominating rock radio with their more produced second album Tough Love (1988), but they scored big with “Pray” a stadium rocker from their quasi-metal album 2nd Avenue (1990). It was the #1 song for the entire year. Inside Out was recorded in 1991. Eclipse (1994) was the bands last album, and also their heaviest, loaded with guitar solos. It absolutely ‘eclipses’ their previous releases without abandoning their signature rockin' sound. Eclipse is an amazing performance by a legendary group. If you've never heard this one, it's probably because it was released independently in 1994 with little to no distribution. It starts right off with "What's Your Point of View" a little bit of AC/DC guitar vibe and then smacks you in the face with that rockin' IDLE CURE thunderous sound. It's tough, it's bad, it screams, it's hot. The album contains the original 9 songs plus the bonus song "Breakout Of the Night".
Idle Cure track listing: “Breakaway”, “Silent Hope”, “Take It”, “Feeling The Heat”, “Come Back To Me”, “Overdrive”, “From The Heart”, “Come Alive”, “Break Out Of The Night” (bonus track)
Tough Love track listing: “Just Believe It”, “Barter Mercy”, “Frontline”, “So Many Faces”, “Hungry Hearts”, “One For The Money”, “How Long”, “Runnin’”, “Draw The Line”
2nd Avenue track listing: “It’s No Fun Anymore”, “Human Solution”, “Picture Of Love”, “Contend For The Faith”, “Talk It Out”, “Don’t Turn Away”, “If You Mean It”, “Dead Or Alive”, “Ordinary Man”
Inside Out track listing: “We’ve Lost Ground”, “Who Cries For Me”, “Holy Mountain”, “Mind Games”, “Redline”, “Innocent Again”, “I Will Hold On”, “Where Is The Love”, “Higher We Climb”, “Tear Down The Walls”
Eclipse track listing: “What’s Your Point Of View”, “Pour Out My Soul”, “Two Hearts”, “Never Say Goodbye”, “Burning Gamorrah”, “Living Water”, “Shake It Up”, “Merciful Man”, “The Only Thing”, “Bring Me Through The Day:
IDLE CURE re-issues pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders
LEAH, Ancient Winter Details Revealed:
Album release: November 15, 2019
Press Release / Her genre is "Celtic fantasy metal" and her albums could easily serve as the soundtracks for shows like Game of Thrones or Vikings. Her fans refer to her as the "metal Enya" and she embodies the archetype of the "warrior queen" to thousands of dedicated listeners around the world.
Now, she's set to release her fifth album, Ancient Winter, which represents a slight departure from her symphonic metal into a more atmospheric, ethereal sound that pulls on the heart strings in a way her previous releases did not. Ancient Winter is a more earthy sounding album filled with new instrumentation such as fiddles and uilleann pipes which give it a beautiful harmony of middle eastern feeling and Celtic folk and fantasy.
Guests on the album include Troy Donockley (NIGHTWISH), Anna Murphy (CELLAR DARLING, ex-ELUVEITIE), Shir-Ran Yinon (ELUVEITIE) and more!
Her first four albums, Of Earth and Angels (2012), Otherworld (2013), Kings & Queens (2015), and The Quest (2018) are a rapturous blend of a symphonic metal style carefully spiced with Celtic, folk, and fantasy. Her emotive vocals are often compared to Loreena McKennitt, Tori Amos, and Sarah McLachlan.
Featured on her first four records are such notables as Troy Donockley (NIGHTWISH), Eric Peterson (TESTAMENT), Barend Courbois (BLIND GUARDIAN), Timo Somers (DELAIN), Sander Zoer (ex-DELAIN), Chen Balbus (ORPHANED LAND), and Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT,AMARANTHE, EVERGRAY).
LEAH secured such amazing talent through her effective crowd funding campaigns in which she raised tens of thousands of dollars to finance her albums.
Ancient Winter represents a new approach to “holiday music” as it celebrates winter themes in a way that is sure to give it a wider appeal. This is not a ‘Christmas album’. It’s an emotional journey into transcendent ideals that will inspire any listener from anywhere.
Once again, LEAH brought in an international team of musical contributors, which created the international flavor of this album. Making their guest appearances are Troy Donockley (NIGHTWISH), Anna Murphy (CELLAR DARLING, ex-ELUVEITIE, Shir-Ran Yinon (ELUVEITIE), Oliver Philipps (EVERON, PHANTASMA) and Rupert Gillett (renowned string musician). Tom Mueller performed the mixing and mastering, and Jan Yrlund (DARKGROVE) created the album artwork.
LEAH financed Ancient Winter herself hosting the fundraising campaign on her own website. Her marketing expertise coupled with her thorough knowledge of her fa nbase gave her the confidence to do what others won’t in order to establish her musical presence worldwide.
Ancient Winter credits:
Leah McHenry - Composition, Orchestration, Arrangements, Vocals, Lyrics, Keys & Virtual Instruments
Oliver Philipps - Production, Arrangements, Orchestration, Guitar and Vocals on "Puer Natus"
Anna Murphy - Hurdy Gurdy
Shir-Ran Yinon – Fiddle, Violin & Viola
Troy Donockley - Uilleann Pipes, Low and High Whistles
Rupert Gillett - Cello & Salaw
Tom Mueller - Mixing and mastering
Jan Yrlund - All original artwork
Ancient Winter track listing:
1. “The Whole World Summons”
2. “Light Of The World”
3. “Upon Your Destiny”
4. “Redemption”
5. “The Messenger”
6. “Gaudete”
7. “Puer Natus”
8. “Noel Nouvelet”
LEAH online: https://leahmusic.net & www.facebook.com/LEAHthemusic
NEWS BRIEFS
* BARNABAS, live in concert May 17, 1980: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MkGh8AATPc
* “I Hear The Voice”, official lyric video from PRELUDIO X: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUKJVGfyO3k
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ARMADA, Frontline Re-issue On Retroactive Records:
Album release: November 2019
Press Release / ARMADA released this 1987 album as a prolific indie band out of Michigan. ARMADA released three classic albums from 1986-1988. The album was re-mastered by Rob Colwell of Bombworks Sound. Drummer John Heald was a writer for White Throne Magazine under the J Emerson name. John also recorded with and helped XALT. Frontline was the album that catapulted the band into iconic Christian AOR/Metal status. The album was 2 parts BARREN CROSS and 1 part TWISTED SISTER.
There have been plenty of CD-R copies and bootlegs of this album, but Frontline is being reissued by Retroactive Records for the very first time as a legitimate reissue supported by the band. Only three tracks from this classic album were on the 1998 (long out of print) CD release called Hope of Glory in 1998. This is the first time this album has ever been available on CD! Get it while you can. Limited to just 500 copies. For fans of BARREN CROSS, XALT, DOKKEN, TWISTED SISTER and PETRA. Amazing hooks/ripping guitars!
Frontline track listing: “Communication”, “Frontline”, “The Calling”, “Pride”, “Shine The Light”, “But It’s Only Rock ‘N Roll”, “No Retreat/No Surrender”, “Loud & Bold”, “No Alibi”, “All You Need (Salvation)”
Frontline pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/pre-orders/products/armada-frontline-legends-remastered-new-cd-2019-retroactive-records
IMPELLITTERI, “Hypocrisy” Official Video Premier:
"Hypocrisy", the new video from IMPELLITTERI, can be seen above. The song is taken from the band's most recent studio album, The Nature Of The Beast, which saw release on October 12, 2018 via Frontiers Music Srl.
30 years into their musical career, IMPELLITTERI have created a mind-blowing, highly energetic and thrilling new musical adventure with The Nature Of The Beast. The band is on fire with their musical acrobatics, addictive riffs, shredding guitar solos, speed metal drumming, and screaming power metal vocals that are all ingredients in these killer songs!
Like many of their talented peers, IMPELLITTERI continue to carry the torch for guitar driven heavy metal. On The Nature Of The Beast, the band shines throughout, especially on songs like the power metal driven "Run For Your Life", the highly energetic remake of BLACK SABBATH's "Symptom Of The Universe", the lunacy of "Gates Of Hell", the addictive riff of "Hypocrisy", and the speed metal cover of "Phantom Of The Opera".
"The new music was written with passion and a sincere love for heavy metal," tells guitarist Chris Impellitteri. "I think as a band we grow stronger with each new album. Our artistic abilities seem to get better with age, but at the same time we seem to sound even more energetic, crazy, and youthful with this release. You could say the music on this newest musical child is an extension of our previous record, Venom. I love the Venom record, but I am currently obsessed by 'The Nature Of The Beast'. We are thrilled to share this new music with our FANS and friends around the world and I really hope they like it!"
IMPELLITTERI recorded The Nature Of The Beast in Los Angeles, California with legendary engineer/producer Mike Plotnikoff (VAN HALEN, AEROSMITH, IN FLAMES), mix engineer Greg Reely (OVERKILL, FEAR FACTORY), and engineers Jun Murakawa and Sean Shannon.
The Nature Of The Beast track listing: "Hypocrisy", "Masquerade", "Run For Your Life", "Phantom Of The Opera", "Gates Of Hell", "Wonder World", "Man Of War", "Symptom Of The Universe" , "Do You Think I’m Mad", "Fire It Up", "Kill The Beast", "Shine On"
Frontiers SRL online: www.frontiers.it/index.php & www.facebook.com/frontiersmusicsrl
MAGDALLAN, Big Bang Limited Edition Vinyl Re-issue On Girder Music:
Album release: November 26, 2019
Press Release / First time ever on vinyl, this legendary release will be limited to just 100 copies, pressed in a random color vinyl with a black poly-lined sleeve and 180 gram. It's also been re-mastered for vinyl with dynamic range.
Here lies some of the most breathtaking and inspired virtuosity you'll hear. Everything is done brilliantly, making this one of the greatest releases to come out of the early 90's. Trust me, it's truly progressive. The lyrics are intelligent, the playing tasteful, and every song sounds great blasting out of your speakers with window-shattering volume. All these years later, it still remains a classic. I'm not one to hype albums if they don't deserve it but if you don't buy this, you're doing yourself a disservice. It's fantastic.
This guitar masterpiece originally released in 1992, features Ken Tamplin (SHOUT) and Lanny Cordola. Cordolla is the legendary guitarist who played with the mainstream band HOUSE OF LORDS and who has also spearheaded such Christian projects as CHAOS IS THE POETRY, CHILDREN OF ZION, THE PANORAMA RAMBLERS SHACK OF PEASANTS and SYMBIOTICA. MAGDALLAN was his debut venture in the contemporary Christian music market, undertaken with Ken Tamplin (SHOUT), cousin to rock singer Sammy Hagar (VAN HALEN).
Big Bang track listing:, “End Of The Ages”, “Radio Bikini”, “Shake”, “Wounded Hearts”, “Love To The Rescue”, “Old Hard Line”, “Dome Of The Rock”, “Big Bang”, “House Of Dreams”, “Cry Just A Little”, “Heartbreak Woman”, “This One’s 4U”, “End Of The Ages (Reprise)”
Big Bang vinyl pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/magdallan-big-bang-vinyl
Roxx Records Announce MICHAEL, The Battle Rages On Re-issue:
Album release: November 8, 2019
Press Release / Every once in a while we get really lucky and find that GEM of a classic Christian rock or metal album that never got its just rewards. Such is the case with our latest release coming to you by way of a long lost classic album from an artist simply entitled MICHAEL with their only album ever released entitled The Battle Rages On. This extremely rare and very good Christian hard rock album from MICHAEL was only ever released on cassette tape. A South Amherst, Ohio based band, this was their only officially released album that originally came out in 1995 on a small defunct indie label called R.A.G.E. Records and in very limited quantities.
Michael featured Shane Freeman (JAKE BANSHEE) on vocals, who was the former vocalist of STUTZ. Also featured are the keyboard talents of Todd Waites (who would go on to play in APOLOGETIX). Mike Slone on bass guitar and Dennis Raymond on drums. With solid operatic vocals and shredding guitars, this album is reminiscent of bands like STRYPER and HOLY SOLDIER.
Roxx Records is very excited to be bringing you this long lost treasure officially on CD for the very first time. This reissue features all 12 tracks from the original cassette as well as 3 never before released live bonus tracks. This package has been completely re-mastered by Bombworks sound and boasts an updated version of the original artwork with a killer 12 page booklet with lyrics and liner notes courtesy of No Life Til Metal Graphics. Limited to only a one time 300 piece pressing this will become a collectors item.
Check out the first re-mastered lyric video for the track “The Rock” above
Get your preorders in early as we get ready to release this one to you on November 8th just in time for the holidays. The first 50 pre orders will also get a limited edition 11” x 17” poster.
The Battle Rages On track listing: “The Rock”, “No Fear”, “Last Days”, “Standing Alone”, “Lord Of My Life”, “Warriors”, “Praise God”, “Stop Wasting Time”, “Lies”, “Flames Of Hell”, “Don’t Receive That”, “Salvation”, “Lies” (live bonus track), “Generation X” (live bonus track), “You And Me” (live bonus track)
The Battle Rages On pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/michael-the-battle-rages-on-first-time-on-cd-remastered-w-bonus-tracks
SIGNUM REGIS Release “Never Surrender” Official Video:
Press Release / Melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS has released a video to the track “Never Surrender”. The song comes off the group’s new album The Seal Of A New World, which is scheduled for release on November 22, 2019 through Beyond The Storm Productions. It’s the first album from SIGNUM REGIS to feature new singer Jota Fortinho.
The Seal Of A New World features 12 songs. Among the 12, there are all sonic trademarks of the band. Fans can enjoy fast, melodic, heavy, mid tempo, rocking songs and also an epic ballad.
The album was mixed by bassist Ronnie König and mastered by the famous Jacob Hansen. One of the interesting aspects of the production is, that there are no triggers and drum samples on drums. The sound is 100% acoustic, which is quite rare for a band of this genre and therefore, it helps this album to stand out of the crowd. Backing vocals on the album were done by David Akesson. You can also hear 2 solos from guitarist Magnus Karlsson (PRIMAL FEAR, ALLEN/LANDE,KISKE/SOMERVILLE) and a guest vocal appearance by Eli Prinsen (THE SACRIFICED, SACRD WARRIOR)
Cover artwork attributes to Jota Fortinho.
SIGNUM REGIS line-up:
Jota Fortinho - Lead Vocals
Filip Koluš - Guitars
Ján Tupý - Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Ronnie König - Bass, Backing Vocals
Jaroslav Jančula - Drums
The Seal Of A New World track listing: “Kings Of The Underground”, “Prisoner’s Elegy”, “I Always Go All-In”, “The City Of God”, “The Seal Of A New World”, “A Memory”, “Phantasmagoria”, “Let Freedom Ring”, “Never Surrender”, “Fly Away”, “Shalom”, “Scheme Of Lies” (bonus track)
The Seal Of A New World pre-order: www.signum-regis.com/shop
NEWS BRIEFS
* WORLDVIEW made its live debut as founding member and guitarist George Ochoa was joined by new front man Mike Lee (BARREN CROSS) and drummer Terry Russell (HOLY SOLDIER) in opening for STRYPER at the Whiskey this past Thursday: www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-nUYCCDbqI
Specifically, WORLDVIEW played a four song set to include new material it will debut off its upcoming sophomore album.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
MICHAEL SWEET: Next STRYPER Album To ‘Surprise And Shock People In A Really Good Way’:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
STRYPER front man Michael Sweet spoke to The Metal Voice about the band's planned follow-up to 2018's God Damn Evil LP. He said (hear audio above): "Next year, STRYPER's gonna make a new album. We go in the studio in January, February and it'll come out mid-year, probably, next year. And I think it'll be a good opportunity with STRYPER to take a little time off from touring. Although we'll be doing fly dates and one-offs, like Monsters Of Rock cruise and Mexico and a few things here and there."
Asked if he has already written any of the music for the upcoming STRYPER album, Sweet said: "I've got a few riffs. I'm gonna really dive into that over the next three to four weeks, getting a bunch of guitar riffs on my phone. And once I have nine, 10, 11, 12 guitar riffs, I'll, in November and December, lock myself in my little den with my cat and my fireplace, my computers, and I'll just start going through songs, one a day. (In) 12 or 13 days, we're gonna have the album."
As for the musical direction of STRYPER's next disc, Sweet said: "It's gonna be aligned with the last album, but taking it a step further. We're gonna do some things where people are gonna hear it and go, 'You've gotta be kidding me,' that's gonna surprise and shock people in a really good way. It's gonna be a metal album - it's not gonna be a pop album or pop-rock or glam metal and all these silly terms. It's gonna be a metal album. And we're gonna really pull some things out of the hat, man, and try to blow people's minds."
Formed 36 years ago, STRYPER is the first overtly Christian metal band to go mainstream. The group's name comes from Isaiah 53:5, which states: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."
STRYPER's albums include To Hell With The Devil, Second Coming, No More Hell To Pay, Fallen and the aforementioned God Damn Evil.
Sweet's tenth solo album, Ten, will be released on October 11 via Rat Pak Records in North America and Frontiers Music Srl in Europe.
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
WEAPONS OF GOD Premier “Heaven Can’t Wait” Lyric Video:
Middleton Ohio based WEAPONS OF GOD released a lyric video to the track “Heaven Can’t Wait”. The song is the third single to come off the groups self-titled debut full length, which it released on July 26, 2019 via Roxx Records.
WEAPONS OF GOD is a four piece outfit that plays what they describe as ‘positive metal’ as they deliver the word of God to the masses. The band was formed in 2014 and completed their first demo in 2015. Each band member brings a diverse musical background with combined experience of over 25 years. To describe their musical stylings we would say it is evident when you like at their influences to see just where they draw from, with bands like: KISS, STRYPER, IRON MAIDEN, BLACK SABBATH and EVERGREY.
The band debuted publicly on October 10, 2016 in Lebanon, OH at the Cornerstone Church of God where they played the opening slot for another Roxx Records recording artist, BIOGENESIS. Since then the band was focused on writing and recording their debut full-length album, and after nearly two years of writing and recording the finished product is upon us and we are excited to be bringing you the debut self-titled album from WEAPONS OF GOD, which also happens to have been produced by Luke Nealeigh from BioGenesis.
The debut 10 track album will be released on July 26, 2019 just in time for the band to share with the world when they open up for DECYFER DOWN on July 27th at the Chains Unchained Festival in Aurora, Missouri.
Videos are also available for the first two singes of the album, including “Weapons Of God” & “Ghost”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjTRZhzQW9Q & www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAD2QCX-trQ
Weapons Of God track listing:
1. “Are You Ready?”
2. “Call Your Name”
3. “Glory And The Power”
4. “Ghost”
5. “Heaven Can’t Wait”
6. “Simple Solution”
7. “Saving Grace”
8. “Anger”
9. “Weapons Of God”
10. “Fade Away”
WEAPONS OF GOD online: www.facebook.com/WeaponsOfGodBand
NEWS BRIEFS
* SIGNUM REGIS video log, recording drums & epic bass solo: www.youtube.com/watch?v=np8w9ZkqGYU & www.youtube.com/watch?v=XP3Ajus83OM
* Michael Sweet, “Son Of Man” lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pK8QKywFKSk
The song comes off the artist’s upcoming (October 10, 2019 release) solo album entitled Ten. Guest appearanceson on "Son Of Man" include vocalist Todd La Torre (Queensryche) and guitarist Andy James.
* New recording project on the way from Jeff Scheetz (Facebook - September 25, 2019):
“I have a new recording project coming out soon. I have been working on this for quite a while with my good friend and fantasy artist extraordinaire Rodney Matthews. It is a series of tunes based on Rodney's artwork. It has a very 70s vibe, like the artwork - probably falls into the prog-rock category as it is fairly eclectic. It will be out this fall as a double album - Vinyl! - and in a box set that will feature an elaborate book of the images and stories of the tunes. It will also be released as a CD and assorted other media - but am super stoked about the box set vinyl as it really fits the tunes!
“We had several amazing players involved - one big smile from me comes from Rick Wakeman of YES playing keys on the record. Been a huge YES fan forever so having him play on a tune that I actually wrote is pretty cool. Also had our friend John Payne from ASIA on several tracks. Oliver Wakeman co-wrote several of the tunes with me, and is an amazing musician! Pete Coleman and Tony Clarkin from MAGNUM also laid down some great tracks.
“We recorded it in the UK and here at my studio in the USA, and then I went to the UK to mix it with Rodney. I will keep you informed of when it actually is released - last-minute work being done by the label and marketing now - but just wanted to share this here. It has been a labor of love for years putting this together so it is pretty cool to have it coming out!”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
MICHAEL SWEET Debuts “Ten” Lyric Video:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
The official lyric video for the song "Ten" from STRYPER front man Michael Sweet can be seen above. The track, which features a guest appearance by Rich Ward of FOZZY, is the title cut Sweet's tenth solo album, which will be released on October 11 via Rat Pak Records in North America and Frontiers Music Srl in Europe.
The follow up to 2016’s One Sided War, Ten features an all-star guest lineup that includes Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY, Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE, Andy James, Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS, Rich Ward of FOZZY, Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE, Gus G. of FIREWIND, Howie Simon, Ethan Brosh, Marzi Montazeri of EXHORDER, Will Hunt of EVANESCENCE , John O'Boyle, Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa of FIRSTBOURNE and more.
On the subject of guest musicians, Michael comments: "There is a different player appearing on every song. It started out where I was just going to have a couple of guest appearances on it, then I decided that it would be really interesting to bring in different players for every song. I started putting names out there and reaching out to people, and they started agreeing to do it. And then I had guys reaching out to me."
Ten is available for pre-order via the Rat Pak Records web site in various bundle configurations, including translucent green and black splatter vinyl, cassette and hand-autographed CD packages. The album also has two bonus tracks that appear on all configurations.
Produced by Michael Sweet, Ten was recorded and mixed by Danny Bernini at the Spirithouse Recording Studio in North Hampton and was mastered by Alex Saltz.
Regarding the musical direction of the album, Michael states: "I'm very excited about this release. There are old-school, straight-ahead metal ideas in the vein of JUDAS PRIEST, DIO and IRON MAIDEN - all the stuff I love listening to!"
As for the Ten album title, Sweet recently stated: "It's called 'Ten' cause it's my tenth album, and because there is a title track on there about the Ten Commandments - a really powerful song. There's real heavy stuff. It starts kind of smacking you in the face and it ends kicking you in the gut."
Ten track listing:
1. “Better Part Of Me” (featuring Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY)
2. “Lay It Down” (featuring Marzi Montazeri)
3. “Forget, Forgive” (featuring Howie Simon)
4. “Now Or Never” (featuring Gus G of FIREWIND)
5. “Ten” (featuring Rich Ward of FOZZY)
6. “Shine” (featuring Ethan Brosh)
7. “Let It Be Love”
8. “Never Alone” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
9. “When Love Is Hated” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
10. “Ricochet” (featuring Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS)
Bonus tracks:
11. “With You Till The End” (featuring Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa from FIRSTBOURNE)
12. “Son Of Man” (featuring Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE and Andy James)
One Sided War was released in August 2016 via Rat Pak Records. Backing Michael on the record were Hoekstra, Hunt, O'Boyle and Brosh.
In a 2016 interview with The Aquarian Weekly, Sweet said that he enjoyed making solo albums "because it's an opportunity to free myself up a little bit more, experiment a little bit more, and try some things that STRYPER may not be able to try."
STRYPER's latest album, God Damn Evil, was released in April 2018 via Frontiers Music Srl.
Ten pre-order: www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/michaelsweet
TEMPLE OF BLOOD, Overlord Re-issue On Alone Records:
Greek label Alone Records announces the re-mastering and December of 2019 CD re-issue of the 2008 independent sophomore album of TEMPLE OF BLOOD, Overlord. Re-mastering attributes to Jamie King (WATCHTOWER, AYREON, CANVAS SOLARIS).
TEMPLE OF BLOOD formed in 2001 with the mission to ‘record, perform, and share their love of the music that inspired them with fellow Metal fans from around the world’.
Additional details from the TEMPLE OF BLOOD press material:
“Initially coming together as a power trio by founder/guitarist/vocalist Jim Mullis along with bassist/back-up vocalist Garth Lovvorn and drummer Lance Wright, TOB was created as a means of fusing the different metal styles that inspire them: power/ thrash metal with elements of traditional heavy metal, death metal, and doom. These elements flow seamlessly throughout each piece as the group’s ability to transcend their arsenal of influences into well-woven songs is acutely displayed.
“Initially playing mostly cover songs, TOB began by dazzling metal fans with songs from ANNIHILATOR, IRON MAIDEN, DEATH, CANDLEMESS and many more. Original material was written and interspersed into the live setting, while a fan base was created that supported the group’s original material. Characterized by punchy and ferocious thrash riffs, melodic power metal vocals, doom-laden interludes, and a penchant for melody, the TOB sound was born.
“The group’s debut album from 2005, Prepare For The Judgement Of Mankind, captured that sound in featuring the charter membership of Mullis, guitarist Matt Barnes, bassist Garth Lovvorn and drummer Lance Wright. Overlord came fresh off of the momentum of Prepare…, picking up where its predecessor left off. This time however, Overlord delivers with a ramped-up crusade into faster, heavier, and even more melodic territory in all areas: musically, vocally and structurally.
“Overlord proudly achieved the high standards of technical proficiency where Prepare… had set the bar. The stellar guitar solos provided by Barnes weave swiftly and melodically over the music's razor-sharp and machine-precision riffing. The band acquired a new bass player in the likes of Jim Lewis from prog/power band ANITHESIS who tightly laid down the rhythm section along with drummer Lance Wright and his unrelenting double-kick barrage, providing a firm foundation for the guitar and vocals. Mullis increased his range and truly brought the power on his vocal performance ascending to towering heights in flawless transitions throughout the album’s vast swath of melodies.”
Overlord track listing:
1. “Descent Into Treachery”
2. “Behind The Inverted Star”
3. Summon The Accused”
4. “Fearsome Warrior”
5. “Illusion Of Control”
6. “Black Day Of Execution”
7. “Pawn Of The Liar”
8. “Harbinger”
9. “Forbidden Evil”
10, “Anthem To The Unseen”
11. “The Return”
Overlord re-issue pre-order: https://templeofblood.bigcartel.com/product/temple-of-blood-remastered-overlord-cd-reissue
TEMPLE OF BLOOD online: www.templeofblood.net/index2.html & www.facebook.com/ToBMetalBand
NEWS BRIEFS
* ALL FOR THE KING release “Metal Gods” video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVnAgtNC3b0
* “Oppenheimer’s Tragedy”, new video from EVANS & STOKES: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3Qy25G2R_w
Dealing with the creation and consequences of the atomic bomb, the song comes off the upcoming EVANS & STOKES album Children Of God, which is scheduled for release on September 25, 2019.
* RockUnited online interview with LoveWar: www.rockunited.com/lovewar.htm
* SIGNUM REGIS re-recorded “Wrath Of Pharaoh” with new vocalist Jota Fortinho: www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0HGu0POS_4
Further details from the group:
“Wrath Of Pharaoh” is one of the craziest songs, we have ever released. It was on the Exodus album in 2013, originally sung by Samuel Nyman from the Swedish band MANIMAL. Our new singer Jota Fortinho took a look at the song and (offered) his take on it”.
* ”Breathing”, official video from Tommy Wales: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TcSbNRkS0M
ARTIST COMMENTARY
DELIVERANCE founding member Jimmy P. Brown in regards to the title to the groups 1986 demo Greeting Of Death (Facebook - September 16, 2019):
“I don’t know whether laugh or just shake my head about this. Maybe a little of both... So Retroactive Records has been getting asked a lot about the Greeting of Death demo re release.
“Why was the name changed?
“My wife, Helen did the artwork for the original demo release, which is what was used for the entire time we sold the demo. She had made a mistake and left the (s) off the word Greetings. I didn’t catch it at first till we started printing copies, but we just went with it.
“It’s possible that there were some runs that we put the (s) on there, but I honestly don’t remember. If we had, it would’ve been done much later. I ordered 100 at a time. Never any more than that because of the price of chrome cassettes at the time. After 1000 orders, they gave me a price break. Then when we reached 5000, another price break! But by then, we had signed with Intense Records. So I stopped ordering them.”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
DIVINER - “Stargate” Lyric Video Released:
Press Release / Greek heavy/power metal band DIVINER has premiered a lyric video to the track “Stargate”, the third single off its new album Realms Of Time. Realms Of Time saw release on June 7, 2019 release via Ulterium Records on CD, LP and as a digital download.
DIVINER debut album Fallen Empires saw a November 2015 release (also Ulterium) and received very good reviews and feedback worldwide. Following release of the album, the band played many shows and big festivals in Greece in addition in Germany, Netherlands and Switzerland, and became known for being a great and energetic live band gaining a strong following.
DIVINER entered Devasoundz Studios in Athens last year to record Realms Of Time. With results showing improvement on every level since the debut, the album won't leave fans of heavy and power metal disappointed. Realms Of Time is heavy, melodic and epic and it’s full of energy, power and emotion. Follow DIVINER into the Realms Of Time!
Realms Of Time was produced and mixed by Fotis Benardo (ex. SEPTIC FLESH), mastered by Henrik Udd (POWERWOLF, HAMMERFALL, MYRATH), while artwork was created by Jan Yrlund (BATTLE BEAST, APOCALYPTICA, KORPIKLAANI).
Link to the music video for "Heaven Falls": www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QN28AXXGvY
DIVINER tour dates:
Oct 12: Metal Union Club - Agrinio, Greece
Nov 01: Kyttaro - Athens, Greece
Nov 30: Stage Live - Komotini, Greece
Realms Of Time track listing:
1. “Against The Grain”
2. “Heaven Falls”
3. “Set Me Free”
4. “The Earth, The Moon, The Sun”
5. “Cast Down In Fire”
6. “Beyond The Border”
07. “King Of Masquerade”
08. “Time”
09. “The Voice From Within”
10. “Stargate”
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
DIVINER online: www.facebook.com/divinermetalband
SIGNUM REGIS Release “Kings Of The Underground” Lyric Video:
Press Release / Melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS has released a lyric video to the track “Kings Of The Underground”. The song comes off the group’s new album The Seal Of A New World, which is scheduled for release on November 22, 2019 through Beyond The Storm Productions. It’s the first album from SIGNUM REGIS to feature new singer Jota Fortinho.
The Seal Of A New World features 12 songs. Among the 12, there are all sonic trademarks of the band. Fans can enjoy fast, melodic, heavy, mid tempo, rocking songs and also an epic ballad.
The album was mixed by bassist Ronnie König and mastered by the famous Jacob Hansen. One of the interesting aspects of the production is, that there are no triggers and drum samples on drums. The sound is 100% acoustic, which is quite rare for a band of this genre and therefore, it helps this album to stand out of the crowd. Backing vocals on the album were done by David Akesson. You can also hear 2 solos from guitarist Magnus Karlsson (PRIMAL FEAR, ALLEN/LANDE,KISKE/SOMERVILLE) and a guest vocal appearance by Eli Prinsen (THE SACRIFICED, SACRD WARRIOR)
Cover artwork attributes to Jota Fortinho.
SIGNUM REGIS line-up:
Jota Fortinho - Lead Vocals
Filip Koluš - Guitars
Ján Tupý - Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Ronnie König - Bass, Backing Vocals
Jaroslav Jančula - Drums
The Seal Of A New World track listing:
1. “Kings Of The Underground”
2. “Prisoner’s Elegy”
3. “I Always Go All-In”
4. “The City Of God”
5. “The Seal Of A New World”
6. “A Memory”
7. “Phantasmagoria”
8. “Let Freedom Ring”
9. “Never Surrender”
10. “Fly Away”
11. “Shalom”
12. “Scheme Of Lies” (bonus track)
The Seal Of A New World pre-order: www.signum-regis.com/shop
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/SignumRegis
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Redemption”, official lyrics video from LEAH off her upcoming Celtic medieval holiday album entitled Ancient Winter: www.youtube.com/watch?v=POEiK6kKH2E
* NARNIA, “The War That Tore The Land” live in Chile 2019: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObRuBpllDBo
* THEOCRACY, entire set at ProgPower USA: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HdrdeYCmUE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
SIGNUM REGIS, The Seal Of A New World Details Revealed:
Press Release / Melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS will release a new album entitled The Seal Of A New World on Nov 22nd 2019 worldwide through Beyond The Storm Productions. It’s the groups first album with the new singer Jota Fortinho.
There are 12 new tracks on the album. Among those 12 songs, there are all sonic trademarks of the band. Fans can enjoy fast, melodic, heavy, mid tempo, rocking songs and also an epic ballad.
The album was mixed by bassist Ronnie König and mastered by the famous Jacob Hansen. One of the interesting aspects of the production is, that there are no triggers and drum samples on drums. The sound is 100% acoustic, which is quite rare for a band of this genre and therefore, it helps this album to stand out of the crowd. Backing vocals on the album were done by David Akesson. You can also hear 2 solos from guitarist Magnus Karlsson (PRIMAL FEAR, ALLEN/LANDE,KISKE/SOMERVILLE) and a guest vocal appearance by Eli Prinsen (THE SACRIFICED, SACRD WARRIOR)
Cover artwork attributes to Jota Fortinho.
SIGNUM REGIS line-up:
Jota Fortinho - Lead Vocals
Filip Koluš - Guitars
Ján Tupý - Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Ronnie König - Bass, Backing Vocals
Jaroslav Jančula - Drums
The Seal Of A New World track listing:
1. “Kings Of The Underground”
2. “Prisoner’s Elegy”
3. “I Always Go All-In”
4. “The City Of God”
5. “The Seal Of A New World”
6. “A Memory”
7. “Phantasmagoria”
8. “Let Freedom Ring”
9. “Never Surrender”
10. “Fly Away”
11. “Shalom”
12. “Scheme Of Lies” (bonus track)
The Seal Of A New World pre-order: www.signum-regis.com/shop
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/SignumRegis
New Compilation Album From SUNROAD, Slow Time Kings (The Ballads Collection):
Album release: October 4, 2019
Press Release / Brazilian hard rockers SUNROAD are happy to announce a brand new release entitled Slow Time Kings (The Ballads Collection). ‘The Ballads Collection’ is an exclusive limited edition release (via Roxx Records) for their US fans only.
After releasing two critically acclaimed releases in the US through Roxx Records, Heatstrokes (2017) and Wing Seven (2019), the band wants to give the fans a collection of all their best ballads throughout their career. Many of these tracks have not been released for years and are very tough to find in any format.
Slow Time Kings (The Ballads Collection) track listing:
1. “Empty Stage” - from the album Heatstrokes (2019)
2. “Skies Eyes” - Wing Seven (2017)
3. “Pilot of Your Heart” - Wing Seven (2017)
4. “Last Sunray In The Road” - Wing Seven (2017)
5. “Common Place Heat” - Carved in Time (2013)
6. “We Still Believe” - Long Gone (2009)
7. “Floating Gardens” (instrumental) - Flying N’ Floating (2006)
8. “First Day Without You” - Flying N’ Floating (2006)
9. “Looking For A Trace” - Long Gone (2009)
10. “The Rising Star” (acoustic version) - Arena Of Aliens (2003)
11. “The Amadeus Journey” (instrumental) - Arena Of Aliens (2003)
12. “Wired In” – from the Fred Mika solo album Withdrawal Symptoms (2018)
13. “First Day Without You” (acoustic version) - Withdrawal Symptoms (2018)
14. “Sharppia” (instrumental) - Withdrawal Symptoms (2018)
15. “Sadness Days Epitaph” (instrumental) - Long Gone (2009)
Slow Time Kings (The Ballads Collection) pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/sunroad-sow-time-kings-the-ballads-collection-roxx-exclusive
SUNROAD online: www.facebook.com/sunroadofficial
MICHAEL SWEET, “Shine” Official Video Premier:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
The official lyric video for the song "Shine" from STRYPER front man Michael Sweet can be seen above. The track is taken from his tenth solo album, aptly titled Ten, which will be released on October 11 via Rat Pak Records in North America and Frontiers Music Srl in Europe.
The follow up to 2016’s One Sided War, Ten features an all-star guest lineup that includes Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY, Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE, Andy James, Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS, Rich Ward of FOZZY, Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE, Gus G. of FIREWIND, Howie Simon, Ethan Brosh, Marzi Montazeri of EXHORDER, Will Hunt of EVANESCENCE , John O'Boyle, Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa of FIRSTBOURNE and more.
On the subject of guest musicians, Michael comments: "There is a different player appearing on every song. It started out where I was just going to have a couple of guest appearances on it, then I decided that it would be really interesting to bring in different players for every song. I started putting names out there and reaching out to people, and they started agreeing to do it. And then I had guys reaching out to me."
Ten is available for pre-order via the Rat Pak Records web site in various bundle configurations, including translucent green and black splatter vinyl, cassette and hand-autographed CD packages. The album also has two bonus tracks that appear on all configurations.
Produced by Michael Sweet, Ten was recorded and mixed by Danny Bernini at the Spirithouse Recording Studio in North Hampton and was mastered by Alex Saltz.
Regarding the musical direction of the album, Michael states: "I'm very excited about this release. There are old-school, straight-ahead metal ideas in the vein of JUDAS PRIEST, DIO and IRON MAIDEN - all the stuff I love listening to!"
As for the Ten album title, Sweet recently stated: "It's called 'Ten' cause it's my tenth album, and because there is a title track on there about the Ten Commandments - a really powerful song. There's real heavy stuff. It starts kind of smacking you in the face and it ends kicking you in the gut."
Ten track listing:
1. “Better Part Of Me” (featuring Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY)
2. “Lay It Down” (featuring Marzi Montazeri)
3. “Forget, Forgive” (featuring Howie Simon)
4. “Now Or Never” (featuring Gus G of FIREWIND)
5. “Ten” (featuring Rich Ward of FOZZY)
6. “Shine” (featuring Ethan Brosh)
7. “Let It Be Love”
8. “Never Alone” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
9. “When Love Is Hated” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
10. “Ricochet” (featuring Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS)
Bonus tracks:
11. “With You Till The End” (featuring Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa from FIRSTBOURNE)
12. “Son Of Man” (featuring Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE and Andy James)
One Sided War was released in August 2016 via Rat Pak Records. Backing Michael on the record were Hoekstra, Hunt, O'Boyle and Brosh.
In a 2016 interview with The Aquarian Weekly, Sweet said that he enjoyed making solo albums "because it's an opportunity to free myself up a little bit more, experiment a little bit more, and try some things that STRYPER may not be able to try."
STRYPER's latest album, God Damn Evil, was released in April 2018 via Frontiers Music Srl.
Ten pre-order: www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/michaelsweet
Michael Sweet online: www.michaelsweet.com & www.facebook.com/TheMichaelSweet
NEWS BRIEFS
* Update from vocalist Jenny Stokes regarding upcoming EVANS & STOKES album Children Of God:
“We now have a firm release date for our album Children of God. It will be available on September 25. We had some production problems with one of our songs, so instead of pulling the song to release in August as originally planned, we decided that it was better to delay release so the song could be included.
“Our sound has really evolved in the creation of this album. At a technical level, it is definitely our best work to date. As with our previous work, our style is genre spanning, including a mix of heavy, in your face riffs, dark melodies, and songs with more of a rock-vibe. Unlike our previous releases, this album includes 11 stand-alone tunes (as opposed to being one unified concept).”
Track Listing: “Children Of God”, “Soul To Keep”, “Oppenheimer's Tragedy”, “Flames Of Notre Dame”, “Godforsaken”, “Dead-Eyed Dolls”, “Evildoer”, “The Devil's Tongue”, “Wicked Ways”, “Savior”, “Garden Of Eden”
A promo video for the album can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pS_qbeWHXA4
* Sample of song “The American Dream” off upcoming JOSHUA’S CREED album of the same title: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxkN-N7J5tc
* Track listing for next LORDCHAIN album, The Shadow Project, which is scheduled for release in January of 2020: “No Excuses”, “Last Breath”, “As Far As The Eye Can See”, “Blow the Past Away”, “Time Bomb”, “Just Like Home”, “Songs In The Night”, “Redeeming The Time”, “Shine On Me”, “Say Goodbye”, “Human Being”, “Dying Battery” (bonus track)
FEATURED REVIEWS
DELIVERANCE - Greeting Of Death (Retroactive re-issue)
When Los Angeles, California based Deliverance released its Intense Records self-titled debut in 1989, it revolutionized the speed metal and thrash scenes. Read Full Review >>
LOVE LIFE - Goodbye Lady Jane (Roxx Records re-issue)
We’ve admired Love Life for yours. Read Full Review >>
LORDCHAIN - Civil War
Quality to Civil War is such that Lordchain is certain to gain further notoriety when factoring how it maintains its slant towards catchy groove underpinnings while heightening heaviness to levels not previously reached. Read Full Review >>
NARNIA - From Darkness To Light
Stockholm, Sweden’s Narnia long has held a place in our hearts with its neo-classical influenced brand of melodic power metal. Read Full Review >>
SUNROAD - Heatstrokes
Heatstrokes presents with Sunroad remaining in the same prime form it captured on Wing Seven. Read Full Review >>
TRAXTER - Rock N’ Race (Roxx Records re-issue)
About a third of the way through my first listen to the May of 2019 Roxx Records re-issue to the Traxter 1991 full length debut Rock N’ Race, I thought ‘Wow, there is much more going on musically to the album than meets the eye’. Read Full Review >>
XT - Revived: Standing For Jesus Christ
For its fifth album, XT decided to go the compilation route that would draw its track listing form its first three albums but with a caveat: rather than re-mastering the individual songs selected, each would be re-recorded (with the bands current lineup) instead. Read Full Review >>
ZION - Thunder From The Mountain 2.0
Thirty years after releasing its David Zaffiro produced Image Records full-length debut Thunder From The Mountain, Sioux Falls, South Dakota based Zion returns with a re-mixed and re-mastered version to the album appropriately re-titled Thunder From The Mountain 2.0. Read Full Review >>
INTERVIEWS
New WORLDVIEW Interview Online:
In a recent online interview with The Pure Metal Fan, WORLDVIEW guitarist and founding member George Ochoa goes into detail about the group’s revamped lineup, its upcoming album and his musical influences. Following is an excerpt:
So do you have an announcement regarding lineup changes?
We also have a new vocalist and his name is—none other than Michael Drive Lee formally of Barren Cross. He will be our front man/lead vocalist. We’ve already written 10 songs together and its really good stuff. As it happens with any band that switches vocalists, the band will evolve a bit. We will still have some more first album kind of flavors in there, but the new record won’t be The Chosen Few part two. It will definitely be an evolved WORLDVIEW with Mike Drive Lee at the helm singing.
Read Full Interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
NARNIA Starts From Darkness To Light Tour, Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of Long Live The King:
Press Release / On August 30th, 2019 Swedish metal band NARNIA starts its From Darkness To Light tour in Kungsör, Sweden. The tour will continue in South America along with American bands STRYPER and TOURNIQUET. Meanwhile, the band celebrates the 20th anniversary of its second studio album, Long Live The King, from 1999.
Long Live the King - 20th Anniversary Edition was re-mastered by Jens Bogren, Fascination Street Studios (SEPULTURA, SYMPHONY X and JAMES LABRIE) and is available on all digital platforms, CD (jewel case and digipak), and vinyl (gatefold and picture-vinyl) in collaboration with record label Sound Pollution. The CD versions also contains bonus tracks.
This summer, From Darkness To Light charted Sverigetopplistan with: Official vinyl charts #1, Official physical album charts #3, Official Hard Rock charts # 3, and Offical album charts #17.
So, it is an enthusiastic band that takes the stage in Kungsör Friday night, and after that continue its tour in South America along with American bands STRYPER and TOURNIQUET.
Long Live The King: https://orcd.co/narnia-long-live-the-king
From Darkness To Light: https://smarturl.it/Darkness-to-Light
New Solo Album From Jamie Rowe, This Is Home:
Album release: August 2, 2019
A new solo CD from the voice of GUARDIAN, legends on the AOR/Hard Rock Christian scene… with This Is Home. Jamie is tapping into those tried and true melodies and riffs that GUARDIAN fans long for, but the rock music here definitely has a swampy, bluesy, hint of a back roads country feel to it… and yes, it is AMAZING! Jamie's voice wrapped around jagged rock riffs and melodies with guitar, fiddle, banjo, and a world class producer (GUARDIAN/LeeAnn Rimes), this is a class act, quality product from beginning to end. This Is Home showcases a whirlwind of musical maturity and growth for one of our favorite vocalists ever. get ready to enjoy one of the top releases of 2019! Yes, it's that good!
This Is Home track listing:
1. “Let’s Get This Party Started”
2. ” Better off than Yesterday”
3. ” Born Again”
4. ”This Is Home”
5. ”Life Is Better”
6. ” Kissin' On You”
7.”Jesus Is The Way”
8.” This Side Of Eternity”
This Is Home pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/jamie-rowe-this-is-home-new-cd-2019-kivel-records-guardian-vocalist
SIN DIZZY, He’s Not Dead Lime Green Vinyl Re-issue on Girder Music:
Press Release / Remastered and Reloaded... Yes, SIN DIZZY He’s Not Dead is coming on a limited edition Lime Green Vinyl featuring Oz Fox of STRYPER. It's been completely remastered for vinyl. Limited to just 500. Pre-orders will get an autographed band picture as well as a cool SIN DIZZY shaped logo sticker.
The album was originally released in 1998 on CD. 10 years later in 2008 Girder Records licensed it with new artwork. Fast forward to 2019, and we have re-mastered it for vinyl and are proud to offer this amazing limited edition green vinyl, which will also make this the first time ever on vinyl.
SIN DIZZY was a '90’s rock band that emerged from a friendship between drummer John Bocanegra and guitarist Oz Fox on the heels of Stryper's break-up in 1995. Something that many might not know is, the last four songs on this album were actually written and presented for the next Stryper album following Against The Law. However, Michael Sweet soon left stryper for a solo career, and the band only played a few live shows before calling it quits. The first 6 songs were the SIN DIZZY promo.
Many have stated that Oz and Michael have some similar vocal qualities. You're about to hear the other half of those STRYPER harmonies that you've grown to love.
So be sure to grab your copy quick! Remember that ROXX REGIME sold out of 1000 vinyl records in 3 days. Don't miss out on this one.
He’s Not Dead vinyl track listing:
Side One:
1. “He's Not Dead”
2. “I Gave It All To Him”
3. “Psalms 23”
4. “Enter Me”
5. “Sacred Blood”
Side Two:
1. “Back In Time”
2. “Rise Above”
3. “Long Way To Heaven”
4. “When the Son Comes Back”
5. “Hebrew Kings”
He’s Not Dead vinyl pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/sin-dizzy-hes-not-dead-green-vinyl-oz-fox-of-stryper
NEWS BRIEFS
* DENY THE FALLEN has made its debut album Symptoms Of Eternity available for free download: https://denythefallenband.com/store
* WORLDVIEW announces new line up:
Michael Drive Lee - Lead Vocals
George Rene Ochoa - Guitars
Alessandro Bertoni - Keyboards
Todd Libby - Bass Guitar
Terry Russell - Drums
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ANGELICA, Rock, Stock & Barrel Re-issue On Girder Music:
Album release: November 24, 2019
We just released the ANGELICA self-titled debut, sophomore effort Walkin' In Faith and The Demo Session. But after many, many request we are now proud to announce that third ANGELICA album Rock, Stock & Barrel is coming to Girder Records this November. Re-mastered and reloaded with a 8 page booklet in a jewel case.
Dennis Cameron is prolific on this release with guitar solo after guitar solo. This is melodic AOR at its best. Starting off with “The Fire Inside”, Dennis rips through solo after solo. This is melodic full of anthems and then the real magic begins when the 3rd song drops. “Cover Me” is probably ANGELICA at it's best. Acoustic, powerful and wonderfully creative with just the right punch. If you haven't heard this album you are in for a big surprise. It kicks down the door and just keeps going song after song. With Drew Bacca on vocals this thing just rocks.
Sure ANGELICA's debut was a masterpiece; however, 3 albums in they seem to click on all cylinders. It's masterful, wonderful and beautiful but also a real rocker with great production. Their songwriting got better with time and although the constant change of vocalist plaque the band, what they did have was Dennis Cameron, who was the mastermind behind every song and one of the greatest guitarist to ever grace Christian rock.
Dennis inked a deal with Frontline’s new imprint label Intense Records and ANGELICA was born but not before speaking with Michael Bloodgood about the possibilities of joining BLOODGOOD. Dennis signed a 5 album record deal with Intense, but the last album was never recorded and a ‘Greatest Hits’ was released in its place (after which) Dennis was then released from his contract. ANGELICA released 4 albums in all. Angelica was released in 1989, Walkin’ In Faith in 1990, Rock, Stock & Barrel in 1991 and Time Is All It Takes in 1992.
Rock, Stock & Barrel track listing:
1. “The Fire Inside”
2. “Someone To Believe In Me”
3. “Cover Me”
4. “Home Sweet Heaven”
5. “A Little Love”
6. “Sail Away”
7. “Keep Pushin’ On”
8. “Bumble Boob Groove”
9. “Rhyme & Reason”
10. “Without Words”
11. “Oh Canada”
Rock, Stock & Barrel pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/angelica-rock-stock-and-barrel-new-cd-2019
ANGELICA online: www.facebook.com/Angelicatheband
Alice Cooper Opens Up About His Faith In Online Interview:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Legendary rocker Alice Cooper, who has been a devout Christian for many years, opened up about his faith during a recent interview (above) with pastor and evangelist Greg Laurie.
Having grown up with a father who was a preacher, Cooper has always had religion in his life. But it wasn't until he quit drinking and drugging in the '80s that he dedicated his life to Christ, partly at the urging of his wife, Sheryl.
"Sheryl had gone - she had gone to Chicago and said, 'I can't watch this,'" Alice recalled about the moment when he accepted Jesus into his life. "But the cocaine was speaking a lot louder than her. Finally, I looked in the mirror and it looked like my makeup, but it was blood coming down (from my eyes). I think - I might have been hallucinating; I don't know. I flushed the rock down the toilet. I woke up and I called her and I said, 'It's done.' And she goes, 'Right. You have to prove it.' One of the deals was we start going to church. I knew who Jesus Christ was, and I was denying him. I knew that there had to either come a point where I either accepted Christ and started living that life, or if I died in this, I was in a lot of trouble. And that's what really motivated me. I just got to a point of saying, 'I'm tired of this life.' And I know that this is right when the Lord opens your eyes and you suddenly realize who you are and who He is."
Cooper admitted that he contemplated changing his name after he came to faith in Christ, but his pastor advised him not to.
"I went to my pastor and I said, 'I think I've gotta quit being Alice Cooper now.' He says, 'Look where He put you. What if you're Alice Cooper, but what if you're now following Christ? And you're a rock star, but you don't live the rock-star life. Your lifestyle is now your testimony.'"
When asked if he was ashamed to say he believed in Jesus Christ, the rock star replied with a confident "no."
"People talk about Alice being a rebel - there was never more of a rebel than Jesus Christ," he said. "You wanna talk about a rebel - he was the ultimate."
The 71-year-old Cooper has been outspoken about his religious awakening for quite some time. In a 2018 interview with New York Daily News, he said: "My wife and I are both Christian. My father was a pastor, my grandfather was an evangelist. I grew up in the church, went as far away as I could from it - almost died = and then came back to the church."
Although he struggled with alcoholism before embracing (the Christian faith), Alice said that he doesn't have trouble reconciling his shock-heavy musical persona with his religious beliefs. "There’s nothing in Christianity that says I can't be a rock star," he said. "People have a very warped view of Christianity. They think it's all very precise and we never do wrong and we're praying all day and we're right-wing. It has nothing to do with that."
Cooper reportedly attends church regularly and participates in a Bible study.
Oz Fox Medical Condition Update:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
STRYPER guitarist Oz Fox will likely have to undergo several medical procedures to shrink the tumors that were discovered after his onstage seizure more than a year ago.
According to Oz's wife, Annie Lobért, the tumor behind the ear has grown from 2.2 by 1.7 centimeters on August 12, 2018 to 2.7 by 1.7 centimeters on July 23, 2019. Fox's doctor has recommended radiation as soon as possible because if the tumor grows to three centimeters, it will be no longer able to be treated with radiation. If the tumor grows beyond three centimeters, an operation to remove it will cause facial palsy (part of Oz's face will appear to droop) and it will be a tough and risky surgery to recover from. The radiation side effects will give Oz permanent hearing loss completely in one ear and possibly facial palsy. There is also a tiny risk the tumor will grow from radiation. But if the tumor isn't dealt with, it will continue to grow and cause hearing loss, balance, vision and spinal problems.
As for the tumor in the back of Oz's brain, it has grown from 27.77 millimeters by 30.53 millimeters on August 12, 2018 to 35.1 by 33.8 millimeters on July 23, 2019. That tumor is in the area where left side of his arms, hands and body operate. The risk to remove it will affect the upper left motor function and potential ability to recognize faces, objects. This tumor cannot be treated by radiation alone, like the first one. Oz will first undergo a biopsy to find out what kind of tumor it is. If surgery looks like the only option, Oz will then undergo a combination of chemotherapy and radiation to stop the growth.
Fox shared Lobért's update on his medical status in a Facebook post on Friday (August 23). In an accompanying message, he wrote: "First of all, I would like to say thank you for all of the prayers and continued support. I couldn't think of having this journey without all of you in my life.
"Today the report from the doctor was a little less than I expected. But whatever! I truly, truly believe that God has a plan for all of this. He has come through for me so many times in my life.
"I'm not going to worry about this at all. But I have to face facts. I'm not getting any younger. I have to start thinking about what to do with my time and better manage it.
"My wife, close family and close friends know me to be a chill person. So, really, I'm chilling out about all the stupid stuff. The STRYPER band and staff is being very supportive. They have been so awesome through all this! I love them dearly! Same goes for my boys from SIN CITY SINNERS and HART ATTACK. And a big shout-out to all my new Las Vegas family who are always encouraging me and are always concerned for my well-being. Of course to all of you around the world offering your prayers and positive words, thank you.
"I will be in South America soon and other dates in the U.S. will be coming up. I'm looking forward to seeing all the awesome fans! After that, one day at a time."
Fox suffered a seizure on August 11, 2018 while performing with SIN CITY SINNERS at Harrah's in Las Vegas. STRYPER subsequently toured Australia and Japan as a three-piece, and later recruited Howie Simon (JEFF SCOTT SOTO, GRAHAM BONNET) to fill in while Fox was unable to go on the road.
Formed 36 years ago, STRYPER is the first overtly Christian metal band to go mainstream. The group's name comes from Isaiah 53:5, which states: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."
STRYPER's albums include To Hell With The Devil, Second Coming, No More Hell To Pay, Fallen and the band's latest effort, God Damn Evil.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
LEAH Releases Debut Single For Upcoming Holiday Album, Ancient Winter:
Courtesy of www.folknrock.com:
Canadian solo artist LEAH has announced details regarding her upcoming concept album, Ancient Winter, in addition to launching a crowd funding campaign for it’s release. First single off Ancient Winter, “Redemption”, is now available on all major streaming platforms.
The album will be a hybrid of Celtic, fantasy, medieval and folk sounds, featuring eight tracks, with five original pieces and three covers of traditional songs.
LEAH has also once again brought in many other musicians that will be making guest appearances such as: Troy Donockley (NIGHTWISH) Anna Murphy (CELLAR DARLING) Shir-Ran Yinon (ELUVEITIE), Oliver Philipps (EVERON, PHANTASMA) Rupert Gillett, with artwork from Jan Yrlund and mixing and mastering by Tom Mueller.
As noted by the symphonic metal songstress:
“I’m very excited to officially announce the coming of a new album, entitled Ancient Winter. The idea came to me in January of this year. A friend mentioned that I really should do a Christmas-type album, and since I had heard that request so many times, it really solidified the idea in my mind. And seeing that it was still January, there was time for me to pull this off. So, I went straight to work.
“It’s very different from the past albums which were more of a symphonic metal style with a touch of Celtic, folk & fantasy. This is quite different! Many people requested I do a Christmas album, and while I do love Christmas I wanted to create something a little broader so everyone can enjoy it for longer than one month out of the year.
“Ancient Winter definitely has a festive vibe, but I would describe it as very Celtic, Worldly, Folk, with a lot of Fantasy and Medieval vibes. There’s no metal to be found on this one, but I think you’ll find it’s not missing anything at all. I’m just getting some mixes now and they sound not only amazing, but they are so lush and full… I think you’ll be in Winter heaven!”
As a completely independent artist, LEAH will again be crowd sourcing the release at the album’s official website, and will be offering various tiers and rewards.
Ancient Winter track listing:
1. “The Whole World Summons”
2. “Light Of The World”
3. “Upon Your Destiny”
4. “Redemption”
5. “The Messenger”
6. “Gaudete”
7. “Puer Natus”
8. “Noel Nouvelet”
LEAH online: https://leahmusic.net & www.facebook.com/LEAHthemusic
MICHAEL SWEET Premiers “Better Part Of Me” Lyric Video:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
The official lyric video for the song "Better Part Of Me" from STRYPER front man Michael Sweet can be seen above. The track is taken from Sweet's upcoming tenth solo LP, aptly titled Ten, which is scheduled for release on October 11 via Rat Pak Records in North America and Frontiers Music Srl in Europe.
Ten features an all-star guest lineup that includes Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY, Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE, Andy James, Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS, Rich Ward of FOZZY, Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE, Gus G. of FIREWIND, Howie Simon, Ethan Brosh, Marzi Montazeri of EXHORDER, Will Hunt of EVANESCENCE , John O'Boyle, Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa of FIRSTBOURNE and more.
On the subject of guest musicians, Michael comments: "There is a different player appearing on every song. It started out where I was just going to have a couple of guest appearances on it, then I decided that it would be really interesting to bring in different players for every song. I started putting names out there and reaching out to people, and they started agreeing to do it. And then I had guys reaching out to me."
Ten is available for pre-order via the Rat Pak Records web site in various bundle configurations, including translucent green and black splatter vinyl, cassette and hand-autographed CD packages. The album also has two bonus tracks that appear on all configurations.
Produced by Michael Sweet, Ten was recorded and mixed by Danny Bernini at the Spirithouse Recording Studio in North Hampton and was mastered by Alex Saltz.
Regarding the musical direction of the album, Michael states: "I'm very excited about this release. There are old-school, straight-ahead metal ideas in the vein of JUDAS PRIEST, DIO and IRON MAIDEN - all the stuff I love listening to!"
As for the Ten album title, Sweet recently stated: "It's called 'Ten' cause it's my tenth album, and because there is a title track on there about the Ten Commandments - a really powerful song. There's real heavy stuff. It starts kind of smacking you in the face and it ends kicking you in the gut."
Ten track listing:
1. “Better Part Of Me” (featuring Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY)
2. “Lay It Down” (featuring Marzi Montazeri)
3. “Forget, Forgive” (featuring Howie Simon)
4. “Now Or Never” (featuring Gus G of FIREWIND)
5. “Ten” (featuring Rich Ward of FOZZY)
6. “Shine” (featuring Ethan Brosh)
7. “Let It Be Love”
8. “Never Alone” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
9. “When Love Is Hated” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
10. “Ricochet” (featuring Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS)
Bonus tracks:
11. “With You Till The End” (featuring Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa from FIRSTBOURNE)
12. “Son Of Man” (featuring Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE and Andy James)
One Sided War was released in August 2016 via Rat Pak Records. Backing Michael on the record were Hoekstra, Hunt, O'Boyle and Brosh.
In a 2016 interview with The Aquarian Weekly, Sweet said that he enjoyed making solo albums "because it's an opportunity to free myself up a little bit more, experiment a little bit more, and try some things that STRYPER may not be able to try."
STRYPER's latest album, God Damn Evil, was released in April 2018 via Frontiers Music Srl.
Ten pre-order: www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/michaelsweet
Michael Sweet online: www.michaelsweet.com & www.facebook.com/TheMichaelSweet
NEWS BRIEFS
* Michael Sweet, online interview with Inside The Musical Mind: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wn2IKFUBsqs
ARTIST COMMENTARY
STRYPER vocalist Michael Sweet in regards to the groups sixth full-length album Reborn (Facebook - August 16, 2019):
“On this day in 2005 STRYPER released Reborn. It was originally a solo album that I tracked at my home studio. After playing it for the guys (and they loved it) we decided to make it a STRYPER album. It was our first album since Against The Law (from 1990). My only complaint is the drum tones and the lack of guitar solos. If it had more classic STRYPER solos and better drums tones it would easily be one of my favorites.
“It’s certainly one of the most original albums we’ve ever recorded. It contains some of the best songs that I’ve ever written: “Reborn”, “Passion”, “Live Again” & “When Did I See You Cry”. Fans love it, fans hate it. I love it�� Much better than its predecessor IMO…”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Michael Sweet, Ten Solo Album Details Revealed:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Building upon the success of his 2016 release One Sided War, STRYPER front man Michael Sweet returns with his tenth solo LP, aptly titled Ten. The new album is scheduled for release on October 11 via Rat Pak Records in North America and Frontiers Music Srl in Europe.
Ten features an all-star guest lineup that includes Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY, Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE, Andy James, Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS, Rich Ward of FOZZY, Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE, Gus G. of FIREWIND, Howie Simon, Ethan Brosh, Marzi Montazeri of EXHORDER, Will Hunt of EVANESCENCE , John O'Boyle, Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa of FIRSTBOURNE and more.
On the subject of guest musicians, Michael comments: "There is a different player appearing on every song. It started out where I was just going to have a couple of guest appearances on it, then I decided that it would be really interesting to bring in different players for every song. I started putting names out there and reaching out to people, and they started agreeing to do it. And then I had guys reaching out to me."
Ten is available for pre-order via the Rat Pak Records web site in various bundle configurations, including translucent green and black splatter vinyl, cassette and hand-autographed CD packages. The album also has two bonus tracks that appear on all configurations.
Produced by Michael Sweet, Ten was recorded and mixed by Danny Bernini at the Spirithouse Recording Studio in North Hampton and was mastered by Alex Saltz.
Regarding the musical direction of the album, Michael states: "I'm very excited about this release. There are old-school, straight-ahead metal ideas in the vein of JUDAS PRIEST, DIO and IRON MAIDEN - all the stuff I love listening to!"
As for the Ten album title, Sweet recently stated: "It's called 'Ten' cause it's my tenth album, and because there is a title track on there about the Ten Commandments - a really powerful song. There's real heavy stuff. It starts kind of smacking you in the face and it ends kicking you in the gut."
Ten track listing:
1. “Better Part Of Me” (featuring Jeff Loomis of ARCH ENEMY)
2. “Lay It Down” (featuring Marzi Montazeri)
3. “Forget, Forgive” (featuring Howie Simon)
4. “Now Or Never” (featuring Gus G of FIREWIND)
5. “Ten” (featuring Rich Ward of FOZZY)
6. “Shine” (featuring Ethan Brosh)
7. “Let It Be Love”
8. “Never Alone” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
9. “When Love Is Hated” (featuring Joel Hoekstra of WHITESNAKE)
10. “Ricochet” (featuring Tracii Guns of L.A. GUNS)
Bonus tracks:
11. “With You Till The End” (featuring Mike Kerr and Ian Raposa from FIRSTBOURNE)
12. “Son Of Man” (featuring Todd La Torre of QUEENSRŸCHE and Andy James)
One Sided War was released in August 2016 via Rat Pak Records. Backing Michael on the record were Hoekstra, Hunt, O'Boyle and Brosh.
In a 2016 interview with The Aquarian Weekly, Sweet said that he enjoyed making solo albums "because it's an opportunity to free myself up a little bit more, experiment a little bit more, and try some things that STRYPER may not be able to try."
STRYPER's latest album, God Damn Evil, was released in April 2018 via Frontiers Music Srl.
Ten pre-order: www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/michaelsweet
Michael Sweet online: www.michaelsweet.com & www.facebook.com/TheMichaelSweet
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Nothing Changes”, sample of new song off upcoming JOSHUA’S CREED album The American Dream: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MlFpcpjd2Y
* LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE reveals sixth vocalists for next album Beauty In The Black Eye: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dP3lSnuNyLg
* PERPETUAL LEGACY, new single “119-Theme Of My Songs” available for streaming:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZO60Ql
Itunes: https://apple.co/2Ywi1gk
Play Store: https://bit.ly/2Tbwrgd
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2M7uQau
Deezer: https://bit.ly/2MJr2eX
YouTube music: https://bit.ly/2MLdMXt
* THE WORLD WILL BURN update (Facebook - August 9, 2019):
“We have some great news and some bad news. The bad news is that Michael Feighan will not be drumming on the next TWWB album. A bummer for sure, but our calendars just couldn’t get lined up. We hope to work together on some future projects. The great news is that we have found an amazing drummer and perfect fit with Aaron Bushong! You might know him from his work with The Great Flood Catastrophe, as well as countless other albums and projects as a highly in demand studio drummer. He is almost finished with his drum parts and they sound amazing! Big and bold, with a really heavy rock feel. Mixing on the finished tracks is also underway. Get ready for (our next album) NOTHING’S AS REAL AS IT SEEMS, headed your way soon!”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BIOGENESIS Release “Human Equilibrium” Video & Single:
Press Release / BIOGENESIS premiered this week an official video for “Human Equilibrium”, the third single off its five-song EP entitled Black Widow, which it released via Roxx Records on December 14, 2018.
Black Widow features four original tunes, starting with the title track “Black Widow” but also including “Angel”, a power ballad written in tribute to loved ones lost and hard rocker entitled “Anti-Evolution”. Rounding out the EP is a beautiful interpretation of the classic DELIVERANCE tune “Flesh And Blood” (off Weapons Of Our Warfare from 1990).
Be sure and request the new single wherever they play music loud and heavy, and help get BIOGENESSIS the recognition it deserves with this epic and critically acclaimed EP.
Pick up the Black Widow EP in physical or digital formats at many of your favorite outlets like Amazon, eBay, CMD and Roxx Records.
Also stay tuned in that Roxx Records will be releasing Black Widow on Limited Edition vinyl (150 hand number copies) to feature an exclusive bonus track.
Black Widow track listing:
1. “Black Widow”
2. “Human Equilibrium”
3. “Angel”
4. “Flesh And Blood”
5. “Anti-Evolution”
Roxx Records online: www.roxxproductions.com & www.facebook.com/Roxx.Productions
BIOGENESIS online: www.facebook.com/BiogenesisProgressiveMetal & https://biogenesis.bandcamp.com
NEON CROSS, Self-titled Debut Re-issue On Girder Music:
Album release: October 1, 2019
Pres Release / NEON CROSS was a Southern California melodic (hair) metal band that arose during the height of the Sunset Strip days. In 1987 Regency Records asked them to record 2 songs for the California Metal Compilation, while the 5-song EP Frontline Life demo was released in 1987 as well. In 1988, the group released its full-length self-titled album, which went down as one of the best Christian rock albums of all time.
Girder is so proud to be including NEON CROSS as part of our Legends Of Rock series and offering not only the 10 original songs completely re-mastered, but also 7 bonus tracks: 2 from California Metal, “I Need Your Love” and “Son Of God”, as well as the complete 5 song EP demo Frontline Life. Completely re-mastered in a 8 page jewel case along with photos, lyrics and songs in the right order as found on the vinyl. Yes, the cassette had songs titles in the wrong order on the J-card cover, while the Magdallan records re-release (from 2001) was missing “The Battle” from Frontline Life.
NEON CROSS is not just a heavy dose of metal and one of the best classic Christian metal bands from the 80’s, it is also one of the most original bands. When so many bands were trying to sound like a secular mainstream counterpart, NEON CROSS stood out and delivered one stunning metal song after another, starting with the furious riff in the opening song “Heartbreaker”. It was a serious relief that when these vocals dropped, “Used to be so loving. Used to be so kind. Now I can’t get through to you, trying all the time… when you gonna open up and Let Him In?” we knew these guys could write songs with the best of them. They had the chops, the delivery, sound, and yes even “the look”, standing up to any metal band to come out of Hollywood in the 80’s.
Remember when you use to buy an album because you just had to have “that song”, only to find out that the rest of the album wasn’t as good? Well, this album was the exception. Every song rocked.
“Frontline Life”, the second song, is a solid rocker with anthem screams and all. “We Are The Children” has one of the best guitar intros of the album with speed and toughness. Thank you Don Webster. And those soaring vocals… David Raymond Reeves can shatter your window with those high-pitched screams. You’ll be putting this song on repeat.
This album is as much melodic as it is tough driving metal with punch and delivery rarely found in the Christian Metal scene during that time. Now with the addition of the 2 California Metal tracks as well as the Frontline Life demo, Neon Cross is everything you wanted and then some.
Neon Cross re-issue track listing:
1. “Heartbreaker”
2. “Frontline Life”
3. “We Are The Children (Of Our Lord)”
4. “On The Rock”
5. “I'm Not Alone”
6. “Right Time”
7 “Run Into The Light”
8. “Far Cry (From Eden)”
9. “Outta The Way”
10. “Victory”
11. “I Need Your Love” (California Metal)
12. “Son Of God” (California Metal)
13. “The Battle” (Frontline Life)
14. “Frontline Life” (Frontline Life)
15. “We Are the Children (Of Our Lord)” (Frontline Life)
16. “Far Cry (From Eden)” (Frontline Life)
17. “Victory” (Frontline Life)
Neon Cross re-issue pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/neon-cross-frontline-life-demo
NEON CROSS online: www.facebook.com/neoncrossmusic
NEWS BRIEFS
* Neal Morse, Jesus Christ - The Exorcist interview, parts 1, 2 and 3: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTrTt_9Y0sM,
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrIOxC7dCek & www.youtube.com/watch?v=31EMo4JUGto
* WEAPONS OF GOD, “Ghost” official lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAD2QCX-trQ
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
S91 Premier “Godfrey Of Bouillon ” Lyric Video:
Italian progressive metal band S91 released on July 26, 2019 a lyric video to the track “Godrefy Of Bouillon”. The song comes off the group’s third full-length album Along The Sacred Path, which was released via Rockshots Records on March 22, 2019. Guest lead vocals are handled by Egidio Casati of BOARDERS.
Along The Sacred Path is a concept album that traces the history of Christianity, continuing the narrative from the groups 2016 sophomore album (and first on Rockshots Records) Behold The Mankind.
The story is told through the life of some key figures that are not always considered positive by everyone. The main goal is to show how the Gospel message has spread in its original form, becoming the fabric of modern Western society. Scrolling through the track listing, you will see that all the characters are of European origin. This album is also a tribute to the great nation of Europe. As proud citizens, we feel it is a nation that today, more than ever, needs to recognize and rediscover its founding values if it wants to survive these dark times and continue to be a beacon of civilization for the whole world.
With its name short for Psalm 91, S91 debuted in 2009 with the 5 song EP Sto Per Tornare (released on Morning Star Records) prior to putting out its 2011 independently released debut full length album Volonta Legata.
S91 line up:
Maria Londino - Lead Vocals
Francesco "Franz" Romeggin - Guitars & Lead/Backing Vocals
Francesco "Frank" Londino - Keyboards
Giacomo "Jack" Manfredi - Bass
Giacomo "Giachi" Mezzetti - Drums & Percussions, Lead & Backing Vocals
Along The Sacred Path track listing:
1. “Constantine The Great” (5:40)
2. “Saint Patrick” (5:24)
3. “Pope Gregory I” (3:38)
4. “Olaf II Haraldsson” (5:02)
5. “Godfrey Of Bouillon” (5:02)
6. “Joan Of Arc” (4:42)
7. “Martin Luther” (4:39)
8. “John Williams“(8:18)
9. “Dietrich Bonhoeffer” (10:50)
S91 Online: www.facebook.com/S91band
NEWS BRIEFS
* Footage of EMERALD performing “Born To Die” at The Troubador in 1986: www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4vhdgZQriE
* HYPERSONIC debut “Path Of Salvation” lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYEgVvyZ-LM
In addition to featuring new vocalist Eleonora, the song will be includes in the next HYPERSONIC album, which is untitled at the time of this writing.
* New LORDCHAIN worship EP, Pierce My Heart, is available for free download at Bandcamp: https://lordchain.bandcamp.com/album/pierce-my-heart-ep
* METATRONE announce new lead vocalist, Daniele Barbagallo (as stated by keyboardist and songwriter David Brown):
"Daniele is such a fantastic singer with a great melodic attitude! When we got in touch with him to join the band, he was caught by surprise but he immediately saw the feeling and everything is gonna be exciting!"
METATRONE is also at work on a sequel to its most recent album Eucharismetal from 2016: “We are already in the pre-production process of the album, the most delicate moment when you're working on a new release. We don't have a fixed date yet, but stay tuned on our channels to find out more pretty soon!"
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
DELIVERANCE, Weapons Of Our Warfare Yellow 180 Gram Vinyl Re-issue on Retroactive Records:
Album release: August 20, 2019
Press Release / Only a year after the band released its historic self-titled debut, DELIVERANCE released their 1990 tour de force: Weapons Of Our Warfare. METALLICA created Master of Puppets, SLAYER bludgeoned the world with the classic Reign In Blood, FLOTSAM & JETSAM had Doomsday..., and EXODUS boasted Bonded By Blood - all albums that would create the standard for all other speed metal releases. Weapons of Our Warfare was that album for DELIVERANCE. It cemented the band's place as iconic speed metal royalty. To this very day, Weapons… is still mentioned with hushed reverence among Christian metal heads as one of the elite speed metal albums of all time.
Guitarist Glenn Rogers had exited the band and former RECON guitarist George Ochoa had joined in his place. Weapons of our Warfare turned out to be one monster of a record, a genuine speed metal classic. Each and every song is played with a feverish fury, and once again the song writing is outstanding. Since 1985, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, Jimmy Brown had been crafting some of the tastiest techniques for complex rhythms and highly technical rhythm guitar. Brown's guitar mastery drives the album from start to finish, setting new standards of power, precision, and stamina. The album shows marked musical growth with several adrenaline-driven, extended, multi-sectioned compositions foreshadowing the band's later progressive epics. And the trade-off guitar leads by Brown and Ochoa provide first rate riffage that will satisfy even the most skilled Guitar Hero addict.
A video version of the title track became the first Christian metal song to gain airplay on MTV, and it placed among the top three on that network's Headbanger's Ball countdown for twelve weeks in a row! In 1999, Lars Ulrich (METALLICA) hosted a show in which he named DELIVERANCE "Weapons..." as one of his top ten favorite metal videos of all time.
Weapons of Our Warfare (The Originals: Re-mastered) takes all the magic from the original release and magnifies it! Featuring a Digital re-mastering, Ysidro "Sid" Garcia at Sight 16 Studios worked hard to make it sound substantially better than the original, while still keeping the character of it. The 180 Gram Yellow Vinyl and the redone 12x12 two-sided Insert will delight ‘D’ fans into a thrashing frenzy. Limited to just 300 copies - don't miss out on this deluxe gem!
Weapons Of Our Warfare track listing:
1. “Supplication”
2. “This Present Darkness”
3. “Weapons Of Our Warfare”
4. “Solitude”
5. “Flesh And Blood”
6. “Bought By Blood”
7. “23”
8. “Slay The Wicked’
9. “Greetings Of Death”
10. “If We Faint Not”
Weapons Of Our Warfare yellow 180 gram vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/pre-orders/products/deliverance-weapons-of-our-warfare-new-yellow-180-gram-vinyl-2019-retroactive-records
DELIVERANCE online: www.facebook.com/DeliveranceRocks
NARNIA Announce 20th Anniversary Re-release To Long Live The King:
Swedish melodic power metal act NARNIA commemorates the 20th anniversary of one its most popular albums Long Live The King with a re-mastered special edition re-issue.
Originally a 1999 release and home to classic NARNIA songs such as “Living Water”, “Dangerous Game”, “Shelter Through The Pain”, “The Mission”, and the majestic title track, Long Live The King is scheduled for re-release on August 30, 2019 in the CD (jewel case & digi-pak) and vinyl (gatefold and with black and picture disc versions) formats. Bonus material for the CD release comes in the form of the 2017 version to “Living Water” to feature keyboardist Jens Johansson (RAINBOW, DIO, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN’S RISING FORCE, STRATOVARIOUS) and Japan bonus tracks “Miracles” and “Can’t Get Enough Of You”
It will be distributed via Sound Pollution Distribution, King Records (Japan) and the band itself. Jens Bogren of Fascination Street Studios (SEPULTURA, SYMPHONY X, JAMES LABRIE, DREAM THEATER) handled re-mastering and Jonatan Samuelsson the updated album artwork.
Long Live The King track listing:
1. “Gates Of Cair Paravel (Introduction)”
2. “Living Water”
3. “Shelter Through The Pain”
4. “The Mission”
5. “What You Give Is What You Get”
6. “The Lost Son”
7. “Long Live The King”
8. “Dangerous Game”
9. “Star Over Bethlehem”
10. “Miracle” (bonus track)
11. “Can't Get Enough Of You” (bonus track)
12. Living Water" (bonus track)
13. “Shadowlands (Outro)”
NARNIA released its most recent studio album, its self-titled comeback effort and seventh overall, in the summer of 2016. It followed up in 2018 with its second live album, We Still Believe: Made In Brazil, while its eighth studio offering, From Darkness To Light, is scheduled to hit the shelves on August 2, 2019.
Long Live The King digi-pak CD pre-order: https://narniatheband.com/product/long-live-the-king-20th-anniversary-edition-cd-digipack
Long Live The King jewel case CD pre-order: https://narniatheband.com/product/long-live-the-king-20th-anniversary-edition-cd-jewelcase
Long Live The King black vinyl pre-order: https://narniatheband.com/product/long-live-the-king-20th-anniversary-edition-vinyl/
Long Live The King picture disc pre-order: https://narniatheband.com/product/long-live-the-king-20th-anniversary-edition-picture-vinyl
NARNIA online: https://narniatheband.com & www.facebook.com/narniatheband
NEWS BRIEFS
* DANIEL BAND, live in Pottstown, PA: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVYCYPzsnF4
* LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE announce fourth vocalist for upcoming album Beauty In The Black Eye: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGPgFZSsu0I
FEATURED REVIEWS
DARKWATER - Human
Human, the March of 2019 Ulterium Records third full length album from Darkwater, takes the best parts of the Swedish progressive metal bands 2007 debut Calling The Earth to Witness and 2010 sophomore effort Where Stories End (both also Ulterium) and mashes them together. Read Full Review >>
DELIVERANCE - Assimilation (Retroactive re-issue)
The 2001 Indie Dream Records eighth Deliverance album Assimilation dutifully draws upon the electronic and industrial metal segments, where it excels. Read Full Review >>
DELIVERANCE - As Above - So Below (Retroactive re-issue)
As Above - So Below, the spring of 2007 Retroactive Records ninth full-length album from Deliverance, is a lot of things. Read Full Review >>
LOVEWAR - Lovewar
Following the release of Soak Your Brain the group drifted into obscurity but not before composing 11 songs intended for a second album that never materialized. Read Full Review >>
S91 - Along The Sacred Path
If you want a female fronted power to progressive metal band with symphonic edges, Montecarlo, Italy based S91 should absolutely be on your radar. Read Full Review >>
SACRED WARRIOR - Rebellion (Retroactive re-issue)
Everything about Sacred Warrior meets our definition of power metal. Read Full Review >>
SACRED WARRIOR - Wicked Generation (Retroactive re-issue)
Of the four Sacred Warrior albums to have come out on Intense Records, 1990 third full length Wicked Generation takes the most getting used to. Several factors weigh in on this. Read Full Review >>
SACRED WARRIOR - Obsessions (Retroactive re-issue)
Name a band with a better four album run than Chicago, Illinois based Sacred Warrior between 1988 and 1991. Read Full Review>>
Metal & Hard Rock News
FEAR NOT Debut “Carry Me)” Lyric Video:
Press Release / FEAR NOT announces the release of a lyric video to the track “Carry Me”, the second single of its March of 2019 Roxx Records comeback EP For The Wounded Heart.
The EP features all four original members of the legendary Christian rock band, including Larry Worley (guitar and backing vocals), Chris Howell (lead guitar), Rod Romero (bass) and Gary Hansen (drums). Added to this new incarnation of FEAR NOT we bring in to the fold a brand new addition with lead vocalist Eddie Green, who helps take the new EP to a new level with his metal vocal styling. Eddie is a seasoned, touring vocalist who most recently fronted EVEN THE DOGS, whom had a charting single titled “Ghost”.
For The Wounded Heart showcases the first new recordings from FEAR NOT since the release of the bands one and only full length self-titled album in 1993, over 25 years ago. This year after celebrating the 25th anniversary with a beautifully done reissue of the debut on both vinyl and limited edition CD, the Christian rock community was buzzing about FEAR NOT! That buzz caught the attention of the four original members, and the creative juices and chemistry of those four guys was so great it ultimately led them to writing and recording 5 brand new and amazing tunes.
In January of this year FEAR NOT released its debut single “Don’t Want None (Come Get Some)” of which it also recorded a lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PeqFFY3KnI
For The Wounded Heart track listing:
1. “Don't Want None (Come Get Some)”
2. “Shadows Fade”
3. “Carry Me”
4. “Love Is Alright”
5. “Shipwrecked Hypocrite”
FEAR NOT online: www.facebook.com/FearNotRoxx
TRUE STRENGTH Introduces Pastor Brad Windlan As New Lead Guitarist:
Press Release / TRUE STRENGTH is deeply honored to be adding Pastor Brad Windlan as its new lead guitarist! Pastor Brad will be featured on the next TRUE STRENGTH album, our fourth release called The Mighty Hand Of Yahweh, a theme album about the Book of Joshua from the Old Testament.
For those unfamiliar with Pastor Brad; he is an extremely accomplished musician, who has 24 independent music releases under his belt. He has played with legends like Ken Tamplin (SHOUT, JOSHUA, MAGDALLAN), Les Carlsen (BLOODGOOD), Chaz Bond (JACOB'S DREAM, BIOGENESIS) and Ski (FAITH FACTOR). He even performed at the 2009 Cornerstone Festival! Pastor Brad is an incredible lead guitarist, with technical skills similar to the likes of Joe Satriani and Steve Vai. WELCOME BRAD!!
Pastor Brad Windlan replaces longtime lead guitarist Josh Cirbo, who is moving on from the project. We would like to thank Josh for all of his hard work, performing above and beyond as a hired hand these past five years. We wish Josh good luck in all of his future musical endeavors!
You can check out Pastor Brad's complete discography at the following website: http://pastorbradrocks.net
TRUE STRENGTH released is third album, Sanguinary Vivification, via Roxx Records in April of this year. Also a theme based release, Sanguinary Vivification seeks to show the parallel between the "Prophecy of the Suffering Servant" in the Book of Isaiah, and the life and the passion of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and how He and He alone fulfilled the prophecy written nearly 700 years before His birth. The lyrics for each song derive from actual scripture in the Books of Isaiah, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, as well as the Book of Revelation!
A lyric video to the track “Worthy Is The Lamb” can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzM9apc9TnA
Angelic Warlord interview with founding member and rhythm guitars & bassist Ryan ‘The Archangel” Darnell: www.angelicwarlord.com/interviews/truestrength19.html
TRUE STRENGTH online: https://truestrength.band & www.facebook.com/True-Strength
News Briefs
* BARREN CROSS, Atomic Arena tour live in Pottstown, PA 1987: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwXTI_opAcs
* Latest from LEAH regarding upcoming Winter album:
“The new Celtic Winter album is very close to being complete. A few finishing touches on final vocals, the guest musicians are 99% finished, and one song has already gone to mixing!
“The artwork is being worked on as we speak and I'm finalizing the track listing and the album title (I'm 95% sure what it is now). Things are getting exciting!”
* Michael Sweet update about his upcoming solo album Ten (Facebook - July 11, 2019):
“Did you like One Sided War? If you did you’ll love TEN! We just wrapped up a shoot here in Plymouth for an EPK/Short doc, we have the first video wrapped and we wrapped a photo shoot yesterday and we’re getting closer and closer to actually releasing some new music!!! We’ll also be announcing a release date very soon. I can’t wait for you to hear it.”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
DELIVERANCE, Greeting Of Death Re-issue On Retroactive Records:
Album release: August 20, 2019
METALLICA had No Life Til Leather... an iconic demo that catapulted the band into unforeseen glory and status. The DELIVERANCE Greeting Of Death demo (1986) did the same thing for the most heralded Christian thrash act of all-time. Front man Jimmy Brown asked his girlfriend to draw up a cover of a Grim Reaper waving “Hi!” Inspired by a Chic Tract he had seen and she drew it, and used rub on letters from a stationary store. Jimmy made all the dubs from a tape deck that belonged to his sister. Three tape decks later, he had ordered 5,000 copies within a year’s time.
The demo gained a life of its own! People everywhere knew it! People would sing “Speckled Bird” (exclusive to this demo) when the band would go to shows and people at the shows were singing along with the songs from the demo! Greeting Of Death was a very special moment in time, captured on cellophane magnetic tape and it propelled DELIVERANCE to being a regular at the Sunset Strip and the newly emerging Christian Festival networks.
.All three versions of this iconic demo were intentional in making it look, feel, and sound like the original release featuring the iconic cover drawn by Jimmy’s girlfriend, and printed black and white on uncoated (flat/not glossy) paper just like the original demo. The cassette is a single J-Card insert featuring the original six tracks. The CD is a 12-page insert with lyrics and pages of iconic band photos with personal reflections form Jimmy Brown. The 12” Vinyl features the personal reflections, lyrics and rare bands photos on black vinyl (500 units pressed). Both CD and Vinyl feature the original six songs, plus the two legendary tracks off of the California Metal compilation, “Attack” and “A Space Called You”.
This demo came out years ahead of all other Christian thrash releases and opened the door for success for other bands like VENGEANCE, BELIEVER and SEVENTH ANGEL. The impact of Greeting Of Death cannot be overstated, and this reissue gives fans a chance to taste of what the original release was like, but even better with the packaging, various formats, and the 2019 digital re-master from an all new source that is a substantial improvement from all other versions of this release. This is the ultimate DELIVERANCE reissue that celebrates the impact of a band that has a musical legacy second to none. CD + LP + Cassette (limited to 100 copies). And yes, the album title is Greeting Of Death, but the song on the demo is “Greetings Of Death”. That’s the way Jimmy’s girlfriend heard it when he was telling her what he wanted, and that’s the way she made it! Get them while you can - these are treasures!
The song “Greetings Of Death” is available for streaming at: youtube.com/watch?v=utH2cHtByAk
Greeting Of Death track listing:
1. “Victory”
2. “Greetings Of Death”
3. “No Time”
4. “J.I.G”
5. “Speckled Bird”
6. “Awake’
7. “A Space Called You” (CD and Vinyl bonus track)
8. “Attack” (CD and Vinyl bonus track)
Greeting Of Death Vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deliverance-greeting-of-death-new-12-vinyl-2019-retroactive
Greeting Of Death Cassette pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deliverance-greeting-of-death-new-cassette-2019-retroactive
Greeting Of Death CD pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deliverance-greeting-of-death-new-cd-2019-retroactive-records
Greeting Of Death Bundle pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/deliverance-greeting-of-death-new-cd-12-vinyl-cassette-bundle-2019-retroactive-records
New Single From NARNIA, “You Are The Air that I Breathe”:
Press Release / Swedish melodic power metal band NARNIA has released a video to the track “You Are The Air that I Breathe”, the second single off its forthcoming album From Darkness To Light. From Darkness To Light is scheduled for a August 2, 2109 release on CD, vinyl (in different colors) and as a digital download. It will be distributed in Europe, USA and Australia by Sound Pollution and Latin America by Voice Music, Icarus Music and The Dove’s Voice Records.
Mats Vassfjord (220 Volt and Impera) produced the video, which is available for streaming at YouTube.
“You Are The Air That I Breathe” has been released on all major digital platforms in cooperation with record label Sound Pollution.
NARNIA released in late May the first single off From Darkness To Light entitled “A Crack In The Sky”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-SWNWLMfZQ
According to the group, its eighth full-length album is a mix of modern sounds with the melodic metal it has been associated with for over 20 years. The release of From Darkness To Light will be followed by a tour in South America with STRYPER and TOURNIQUET.
The album was produced by NARNIA guitarist CJ Grimmark, mixed by the band’s sound engineer Viktor Stenquist, and mastered by Jens Bogren, Fascination Street Studios (SEPULTURA, SYMPHONY X & JAMES LABRIE).
NARNIA lineup:
Christian Liljegren - Lead Vocals
CJ Grimmark - Guitar & Backing Vocals
Martin Härenstam - Keyboards
Jonatan Samuelsson - Bass & Backing vocals
Andreas Johansson - Drums
From Darkness To Light track listing:
1. “A Crack In The Sky”
2. “You Are The Air That I Breathe”
3. “Has The River Run Dry”
4. “The Armor Of God”
5. “MNFST”
6. “The War That Tore The Land”
7. “Sail On”
8. “I Will Follow”
9. “From Darkness To Light (Part 1)”
10. “From Darkness To Light (Part 2)”
From Darkness To Light pre-order: https://narniatheband.com/shop
NEWS BRIEFS
* New single from EVANS & STOKES, “Dead Eyed Dolls”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TmuoIbUDVs
The song is off the group’s upcoming album Children Of God, which is scheduled for release in August.
* LIBERTY N’ JUSTICE revealed the title to its new album, Beauty In The Black Eye. According to founding member Justin Murr, Beauty In The Black Eye is going to be more aggressive than the previous LNJ ‘all-star’ CD, The Cigar Chronicles from 2013.
* RED SEA, “Soulshaker” lyric video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnP6qFQCJ6w
* STRYPER live 05/12/1991 at Ranch Bowl, Omaha, NE: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xe0z_VMLUzo
