METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
NARNIA Announce New Album, Ghost Town:
Album Release: March 17, 2023
Press Release / Twenty-seven years into a career that continues to grow, Swedish metal band NARNIA takes huge steps into an exciting chapter with the new album Ghost Town. The seasoned five-some once again shows how to shape a masterpiece with this melodic metal future classic.
On the ninth studio album Ghost Town, NARNIA has picked the icing on the cake from its vast catalog. You can’t simply label this album a neoclassic metal album or a power metal album, even though these elements are present. There are also parts that are progressive, modern, heavy, or just creatively different. But you can summarize by saying this is well-crafted piece of classic and melodic metal.
Co-founder, guitarist, and producer CJ Grimmark is the crucial architect of the band’s sound, and also its primary songwriter along with co-founder and lead singer Christian Liljegren and bassist Jonatan ”Jono” Samuelsson. Through well formulated lyrics and melodies created to enhance the music, the songwriting team has explored new modes of expression that are well represented in songs such as “Thief”, with its dramatic arrangement, anxiety-laden, expressive imagery, and the progressive “Modern Day Pharisees”, a song dealing with the subject of hypocrisy.
The title track, “Ghost Town”, was first introduced to the cheering live-audience at Sweden Rock Festival 2022 and is now an obvious part of the set list with its bombastic four on the floor-pulse and sing along chorus. The heartbeat of NARNIA, Andreas “Habo” Johansson, does a tremendous job behind the drums, and spares no energy.
Martin Härenstam and his keyboards have been given a large but tasteful space on the record, and range in sound from vintage synths to grand piano.
The record’s neoclassical gem, “Rebel”, with a nod to the band’s earliest influences, should appeal to longtime fans. But also, more immediate songs like the soon-to-be crowd pleasers “Hold On”, “Wake Up Call” and “Alive”. “Descension”, on the other hand, is more progressive, but there is a constant and clear common thread throughout the entire production that ties it together brilliantly.
“Out of the Silence” picks up where 2019’s “The War That Tore the Land” left off as the album’s only ballad. Featured by SAVIOUR MACHINE front man Eric Clayton, who reads the Lord’s prayer with his deep baritone operatic voice.
“Glory Daze” is perhaps the album’s heaviest song, which also addresses one of today’s biggest problems: Stress and chasing the wind. Something that Liljegren himself experienced during a burnout.
“Different songs will appeal to different people lyrically, but we cover a variety of topics throughout the album, and I’m sure people will be able to relate to them, both musically and spiritually. Some of these songs stand out a bit from our previous repertoire, but without abandoning our historical influences”, Liljegren explains and continues:
“This is an album with a positive message combined with bombastic music. You can’t have one without the other when it comes to NARNIA”, Liljegren concludes.
Lyrics that make you reflect combined with the broad musical breadth the band possesses, along with a solid production, is NARNIA’s musical trademark which runs throughout the entire album.
If the latest studio album From Darkness To Light from 2019 marked the way, Ghost Town is a more than worthy sequel with a life of its own.
Ghost Town was produced by CJ Grimmark, mixed by the band”s sound engineer Viktor Stenquist, and mastered by Thomas Piec Johansson. It will be available on all digital platforms, CD, and vinyl on March 17th in collaboration with Sound Pollution Distribution.
Ghost Town track listing:
1. “Rebel”
2. “Thief”
3. “Hold On”
4. “Glory Daze”
5. “Descension”
6. “Ghost Town”
7. “Alive”
8. “Modern Day Pharisees”
9. “Out Of The Silence”
10. “Wake Up Call”
Ghost Town pre-order: https://orcd.co/n014
NARNIA online: https://narniatheband.com & www.facebook.com/narniatheband
NEWS BRIEFS
* ”Near”, latest single off new STRYPER album The Final Battle: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGfB4IQzGAE
* New single from SWINGLE & THOMPSON ORDAINED, “Hail With Blue Flamez”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEw6pFNKgeg
* “Welcome To The End Of Time”, lyric video from PRODIGAL: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixlsznqvZb8
Song is the title track to the Phoenix, Arizona’s based groups upcoming EP scheduled for release early next year. Look for a full length album to follow in the spring or summer.
Further details from PRODIGAL regarding the songs musical and lyrical direction:
‘As always, the music is very 80s-style metal with a little modern twist, and the message is always biblical and glorifying to the Creator. We sing of our faith and current issues that align with a powerful message of truth.’
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
New Solo EP On The Way From JIMMY P. BROWN II, Novella 1:
Album Release: December 16, 2022
Novella is the first of a 4 Part E.P. Series from JIMMY P. BROWN II. An Exclusive Limited 225 CD’s signed and autographed by JIMMY P. BROWN II will be available for purchase. When they’re gone, they’re gone!
In the world of heavy metal, Jimmy P. Brown II is known as the legendary, esteemed front man and leader of the epic metal band, DELIVERANCE.
DELIVERANCE has evolved over the years and Jimmy has tried to appease fans of both the early thrash and later progressive, artistic styles. But he has always felt torn between the two fan bases.
Recently in 2018, Jimmy released the DELIVERANCE album The Subversive Kind. The record was a return to thrash and speed that gave fans of the early albums like Deliverance (Self-Titled) and Weapons Of Our Warfare what they have been craving.
2018 also saw the release of his debut solo record, entitled Eraserhead, where he has captured the soul of such DELIVERANCEmasterpieces as River Disturbance, Learn and Camelot In Smithereens. Eraserhead is dripping with melody, progression, lyrical depth and vitality. Truly, he has released an epic masterpiece that many have called the pinnacle of his long and heralded musical legacy.
Jimmy now works on releasing singles to his Patreon Family and the world on a monthly/bi-monthly basis. Free from the expectations of his previous musical projects, he is creating his most passionate works to date. We encourage you to consider becoming a patron as he continues his journey of heartfelt music that stirs the soul and delights the ears: www.patreon.com/jpbii
Join in the creative process now!
Novella 1 track listing:
1. “The Warm Up”
2. “Have You Ever?”
3. “My Time”
4. “Stranger Than Fiction”
5. “Warszawa”
Musicians:
Jimmy P. Brown II - Lead Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards & Percussion
Larry Farkas – Lead & Rhythm Guitars
Manny Morales - Bass
Jim Chaffin - Drums
Recorded, Produced & Mixed by Jimmy P. Brown II for Ping The Universe Production.
Novella 1 pre-order: https://jpbii.com/shop?fbclid=IwAR2VuX6Bj4xDF67b95ktjBTUDpj5Im3e5cxrmOZTMoQrtdP8ZqYX9hnGogM
W.A.S.P.’s BLACKIE LAWLESS Explains How He Came To Rededicate His Life To Christ:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
During a "VIP Experience" question-and-answer session before W.A.S.P.'s November 27 concert in Charlotte, North Carolina, front man Blackie Lawless opened up about his faith and what the catalyst was for him rededicating his life to Christ. He said in part (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "One day some of the folks you used to know just don't come around anymore. But that's not why you make those kind of decisions. You have to do what's right for you. And I've told people that for me it was kind of like the Lieutenant Dan moment (referring to Gary Sinise's character Lt. Dan Taylor in the movie 'Forrest Gump'), where Gary Sinise is sitting up in the crow's nest (of his shrimp boat in the middle of a hurricane), and he's shaking his fist at God: 'You'll never sink this boat.' Well, I went through one of those. And I spent six months studying the New Testament, trying to disprove it.
"You've gotta remember that I was brought up in the church," he explained. "I had an uncle who was a preacher, and my dad was a Sunday school superintendent. My grandfather was a deacon. So when the doors were open, I was there. So I grew up with all that. But I went away for 20 years and I came back, and, like I said, that's when I decided I was gonna have the face-off. It's like trying to determine, is this or is this not real? So it wasn't like a big… I made the Gary Sinise joke just a second ago. But it really wasn't one of those. It was more like a process of evaluation and studying and things like that."
Blackie previously spoke about his faith while discussing how being a born-again Christian affected the overall creative and recording process of the band's then-new album, Golgotha. He told Ultimate Classic Rock at the time: "Certainly, lyrically everything is written from the eyes of my faith, everything is through that filter. You're also talking about a genre [heavy metal and hard rock] that, in general, is obsessed with the idea of God and/or the devil. Jazz, pop, there is no other genre that is absolutely obsessed with it as this genre is.
"The Bible tells us, 'The truth has been placed in the hearts of all men.' In other words, people know what the truth is. What I see is people in the search of the truth. They're all on a journey, the people that are attracted to this genre are people who are really a lot more in tune with it than they think they are."
He continued: "I'm speaking from a direction where I know what I'm talking about. I was in the church until I was in my late teens, and when I left and came to California, I went as far away as you could possibly go. I ended up studying the occult for three years. I understand what they're looking for - they're looking for the same thing I'm looking for. I'm at a point now where I'm bilingual: I can speak their language. They can't necessarily speak my language, but I can understand where they're coming from.
"When we say 'religion,' we kind of use that as a general term, and when people have the resistance that they have to it, they have every reason to feel that way. That's part of what drove me away - the indoctrination of men that I received; it's man's indoctrination. Now, from my perspective, my faith is based on Jesus Christ and the Bible - nothing more, nothing less.
"I don't want to hear anybody telling me their ideas or their interpretations or interjections of what they've put into the Bible, like telling me I can't eat meat on Friday, or I got to go and worship somebody's old dead bones somewhere. That's not in my Bible. There's a lot of it. Every organized religion has it, every organized faith has it. That's not where I'm coming from."
Blackie went on to say: "When I left the church and then I studied the occult, I walked around for 20 years and thought I was mad at God. I realized after 20 years I was not mad at God, I was mad at man for that indoctrination I received. For me I had to settle this issue once and for all, because I am not going to walk around with this anxiety of what's going to happen to me and where I'm going. I got to know the truth. I got the Bible and I started reading and I thought I was going to disprove this thing once and for all.
"Everyone says the Bible is written by men, but the Bible says it was men who were directly inspired by God. But I didn't believe it for a minute. So I start reading and I start discovering and you have 66 books written by 40 different authors spread over three different continents, in three different languages, over a 2,000-year period. Most of the authors did not know each other, had no knowledge of each other, but yet I see consistently that they're not just answering each other's questions, they're finishing each other's sentences. It was mind-boggling, the deeper I got into it, and one day it hit me like a shot. I'm reading the living word of a living God. After that, I was just scratching the surface. Then, when you get even deeper into it, it's beyond comprehension.
"I cannot say it strongly enough. It is beyond impossible that it could've been written by men. I'm a writer, and even the writers that I know that I admire, I look at how we write, I know what our limitations are, and, like I said, it's so far beyond our comprehension."
W.A.S.P. kicked off its first U.S. tour in a decade in October. The trek coincides with the band's 40th anniversary and includes support from ARMORED SAINT and MICHAEL SCHENKER on select shows.
Lawless has led W.A.S.P. as its lead vocalist and primary songwriter since its beginning. His unique brand of visual, social and political comment took the group to worldwide heights and sold millions of records alongside a legacy of sold-out shows across the globe for four decades. He is joined in W.A.S.P.'s current lineup by bassist Mike Duda and guitarist Doug Blair, whose tenures in the band span 26 and 18 years respectively, along with drummer extraordinaire Aquiles Priester.
NEWS BRIEFS
* MICHAEL SWEET provided a recent non STRYPER projects update (Facebook - December 2, 2022):
“The Sweet & Lynch album is done and it’s killer!!!! I Really think you guys are going to love it!
“Also, I start singing a new project when I get home from Mexico. It’s very different for me. It has a Journey meets Toto vibe with more teeth. I’m co writing, co-producing and singing on this one (no guitar) and it’s a collaboration with Alessandro Del Vecchio”.
* The Metal Onslaught online interview with HUMAN CODE: https://themetalonslaught.com/2022/11/27/human-code-going-against-the-grain/
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ALL FOR THE KING Premier “The Shelter” Official Video:
Press Release / ALL FOR THE KING was started in 2016 by Ricard Hulteke and Erik Tilling after a mutual longing to share their faith. The band has a yearning to preach the Gospel to a lost society that at times appears to run without a compass. Telling people that there is a God who cares for them in the midst of it all and wants to guide them and carry them through life’s journeys and storms.
Today, the band consists of Andreas Idaglöv (bass), Anders Köllerfors (drums), Ricard Hulteke (vocals) and Erik Tilling (guitar). They play a version of modern heavy progressive hard rock and metal with their roots strongly in the '70s. Critics around the world have compared Ricard's vocals to the legendary Glenn Hughes and Erik Tilling's guitar playing to riff master Tony Iommi of BLACK SABBATH.
In 2017, the band would release its self-titled debut album that was praised by both reviewers and listeners alike. Now in 2022 Roxx Records is set to bring you the bands sophomore release exclusively on CD, Let There Be Light. According to the critics this follow up album is a real push forward and has given the band top reviews worldwide. The song "The Shelter" has already been placed on Spotify's top chart for Top Christian Rock and has allowed the band to gain many new listeners. A video to “The Shelter” can be streamed above.
Roxx Records is excited to bring you this brand new album from ALL FOR THE KING complete with 2 additional bonus tracks and even a third ‘hidden’ bonus track (but don’t tell the band!) Just this year, the band recorded a brand new single that was just released separately from the new album, which featured a very special guest appearance from Ulf Christiansson of JERUSALEM. This amazing new track is included here as one of those special bonus tracks. In addition, this package features a beautiful layout and design by Scott Waters of NLTM Graphics. This beautiful Limited Edition CD Only Package was released in a quantity of only 400 pieces on August 19, 2022.
The group previously released a lyric video to the track “The Seventh Seal”: https://youtu.be/E23TSxPrzt0
Let There Be Light track listing:
1. “The Six-Winged Seraphim”
2. “Let There Be Light”
3. “I Am He”
4. “The way, Truth And Life”
5. “The Shelter”
6. “St. Patrick´s Prayer”
7. “Metal Gods”
8. “Let God Be God”
9. “Moneychangers”
10. “Blazing Fire”
11. “The Return Of The King”
12. “Song Of The Lamb” (bonus track)
13. “The Seventh Seal” (bonus track featuring Ulf Christiansson)
Let There Be Light ordering information: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/all-for-the-king-let-there-be-light-2022-bradn-ne-christian-metal
ALL FOR THE KING online: www.allfortheking.se & www.facebook.com/thebandallfortheking
NEWS BRIEFS
* “He’s Coming”, lyric video from LES CARLSEN: www.youtube.com/watch?v=To1ESV42Cj8
The song is the title track to the former BLOODGOOD vocalists Girder Music recently released debut solo album.
ARTIST COMMENTARY
WEAPONS OF GOD in regards to new drummer Jay Hurt (Facebook - November 25, 2022):
“Weapons of God would like to welcome, Jay Hurt as our new drummer! Please, let's give him a huge shout out and a warm welcome!
“Born and raised in Northern Kentucky, Jay was introduced to music at a very early age. Coming from a long line of family musicians, it was inevitable that he too would become a musician as well. “It’s in my blood.” As Jay would say.
“At age 5 his dad started teaching him how to play guitar. Jay stuck to it and worked diligently learning everything he could possibly learn on the guitar mostly by ear but with some help from others along the way. His earliest influences were mostly many of his own family members but also many popular acts such as Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and The Temptations.
“At age 10 and still working hard on guitar, a childhood friend introduced Jay to the world of drums that would ultimately become a game changer. The guitar eventually became a secondary instrument because of Jay’s new interest. Playing the drums felt more natural to him and he stayed with it. While with help from other drummers that he knew and learning by ear listening to various popular artists, Jay stumbled upon hard rock music and immediately knew that he wanted to be a drummer in a rock band.
“Although he was raised on Motown, Oldies and Classic Country, Jay preferred to listen to groups like Deep Purple, Kiss, Van Halen, Scorpions, Queensryche and Rush. Earlier influenced by drummers like Alex Van Halen and Tommy Lee, Jay later became a fan of more progressive style drummers like Neil Peart and Mike Portnoy.
“Jay has been a Christian all of his life and has served as a deacon and a musician in several churches throughout the Cincinnati Tri State area. Jay has played with many Contemporary Christian groups and he is also an accomplished singer and multi-instrumentalist as well.
“Most recently Jay had been working with numerous local bands doing bar gigs to keep his “chops” up, all the while still looking for something else. Not satisfied with playing in bar bands and becoming tired and burned out, Jay began a new search that would eventually lead him into a new direction and back on track. Joining Weapons of God, Jay believes that he has found a new home with a rock solid foundation. Jay hopes that his creativity and talents added to the band will be an inspiration for one and all. But most importantly, he wants to make God proud.”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Roxx Records Announce Holiday Sampler, A Christmas That Roxx:
Album Release: December 2, 2022
Press Release / Well this year we really tried to out do ourselves! A Full Christmas music release and our first full official Christmas release from Roxx Records and NoLifeTilMetal Records.
And this thing features KILLER new Music from THE BRAVE and LATTER REIGN! In fact it features 4 new tracks from LATTER REIGN and 2 new tracks from THE BRAVE! If that is not enough for you, we have a brand new track from PUDDLEGLUM included here also. We also have a killer track from legendary East Coast Rockers MASS! In addition to that we included the classic DELIVERANCE track 'Silent Night' (re-mastered) and a brand new soon to be classic track from BRIDE off of their just released album Christmas and that is just the first half of the album!
The second half of what is destined to be a classic Christmas album for years to come, includes all the original Christmas tunes we released through the years on our annual Black Friday give away discs! Including tracks from THREE KINGS (previously only available on the Candy Cane EP 7") as well as tracks from CHRIS MANNING, BIOGENESIS, AFTERWINTER, RAINFORCE, GRAVE ROBBER and THE SACRIFICED!
This is one killer (no filler) Christian rock and metal Christmas extravaganza! 17 Tracks in all filling the entire CD only release with almost 80 minutes of Christmas music to keep you rocking around the Christmas tree this season!
Also if you love the cover art featuring Bill Simpson and Scott Simpson you can get a limited edition holiday T Shirt with the cover art exclusively through the holiday season: https://anchormerchandising.com/roxx-productions
A Christmas That Roxx track listing:
THE BRAVE - A Brave Christmas (previously unreleased):
“Christmas Everyday”
“Drums of Christmas”
LATTER REIGN - Crimson Hope EP (previously unreleased):
“Magic Of Christmas”
“Gift For You”
“Silent Night”
“Little Drummer Boy”
A Roxx Classic Christmas:
MASS - “Where Are You Christmas?”
BRIDE - “Do You Hear What I Hear” (from the album Christmas)
DELIVERANCE - “Silent Night” (from the album What A Joe!)
PUDDLEGLUM - “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” (previously unreleased)
THREE KING - “Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer” (The Candy Cane EP)
CHRIS MANNING - “Winters Journey” (from 2021 Roxx Holiday Comp)
BIOGENESIS - “Messiah” (from 2018 Roxx Holiday Comp)
AFTERWINTER - “Underfire” (from 2020 Roxx Holiday Comp)
RAINFORCE - “Bring Back Christmas” (from 2017 Roxx Holiday Comp)
THE SACRIFICE – “Little Drummer Boy” (from 2017 Roxx Holiday Comp)
WRETCHED GRAVEROBBER - “Merry Christmas Everybody” (from 2014 Roxx Holiday Comp)
A Christmas that Roxx track listing: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/a-christmas-that-roxx-2022-roxx-nltm-holiday-cd
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Girder Music Announce LES CARLSEN Solo Album, He’s Coming:
Album Release: December 2, 2022
Full review (courtesy of Girder Music):
I had no idea what to expect from one of the greatest Christian rock/metal vocalists of our time. But hatever I had conjured up in my head pales in comparison to what we actually received. We knew what BLOODGOOD was capable of, however, Les did the unthinkable. You actually might want to crucify me after I say this (pun intended), but this album just might be better than anything BLOODGOOD ever released. It's absolutely heavier and without a doubt, Les did not miss his chance to prove that he has the vocals, the tenacity, and the courage to make not just a really good album but also an album that will forever leave its mark. I can't begin to express to you how impressive this album is with a rock-star line-up of Paul Jackson, Oz Fox, Craig Church, and David Zaffiro. As for this one, for certain, they left nothing on the table.
He's Coming starts off with “I Wanna Know You”. It's full of driving guitars with twists and turns and a really solid chorus. “Scars”, the second song on the album, is a fully-loaded guitar master class with 80's shredding. Then comes Oz Fox (StTRYPER) on “Judas Is Dead”. You hear a heavy influence with darkened tones, and a song titled “Judas Is Dead” should be dark. I really think every song is great but this song has something really special and feels like a mix of LED ZEPPELIN, BLACK SABBATH, OZZY, but I think you get it. The fourth song, “Judas Freak Show” was written in the hopes of the next BLOODGOOD album. It's a really freakishly great song. So great in fact that it should have been on the album twice.
Moving on to “Faith Is Tested” and then “How Long”, heavy with an abrupt interruption at the end of the song that I personally love. I especially love it because the next song is such a contrast. “River” is about challenges and inspiration that Les received from his granddaughter whose name is River, but it obviously contains a double meaning as well. You can call it a ballad if you want, but I call it a Holy Spirit bliss-of-emotion. Four minutes and twenty seconds into the song you'll see why... something happens here that is magical. The entire weight of this album sits at the heart of this moment. I encourage you to listen to this with earphones and just take this moment in. It's as if something spiritual took over leading into the last two songs.
“He's Coming” (the title track) comes out screaming with lyrics such as "the touch you desire will be replaced with Holy Fire." “He's Coming”, as great as it is musically, sums up all the reasons that this music has meant so much to believers. It's more than just Les' signature scream, although we are thankful it wasn't left out, it's the music that intentionally gets overshadowed with the message that resounds so loudly on this album that in fact He's coming.
Okay, now to a really important question? How does one end an album this great? Well, with an encore, of course. There's a saying "behind every good man is a great woman." Enter Joyce Carlsen. Just when you thought that Les was "in the studio" doing all the work, we've come to find out that Joyce was a mastermind behind the soundboard making a lot of the calls and giving a lot of direction, pushing for quality and producing clarity like there was no other option Just like a master conductor of an orchestra, Joyce Carlsen was carefully and methodically guiding this project to the end.
So, there is no better way to end an album than with... “Return Me To The Fire” with Joyce on vocals. Powerful, riveting vocal prowess with distinguished bravery. This song just feels effortless sung by a seasoned pro. I can't be prouder of these two. It feels like the beginning of something really special. Thank you, Les and Joyce. Your inspiration just simply leaves us with chills.
He’s Coming track listing:
1. “I Wanna Know You”
2. “Scars”
3. “Judas Is Dead”
4. “The Jesus Freak Show”
5. “Faith Is Tested”
6. “How Long”
7. “River”
8. “He’s Coming”
9. “Return Me To The Fire”
He’s Coming pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/les-carlsen-hes-coming-cd-bloodgood-vocalist-w-oz-fox-david-zaffiro-paul-jackson
LES CARLSEN online: www.lescarlsenmusic.com & www.facebook.com/clescarlsen
LORDCHAIN Signs With Roxx Records For New Album, Surviving The Wicked Storm:
Album Release: November, 23, 2022
Roxx Records is very excited to announce the addition of one of the Christian Metal underground’s hardest working and still thriving bands… LORDCHAIN.
LORDCHAIN has been recording, playing and going strong since 1990, celebrating 32 years together as an active ministry minded Christ centered band. Having ten full length albums, four EP’s and one compilation under their belt, we are very excited to finally be able to partner with the band to bring you their eleventh full length release entitled Surviving The Wicked Storm.
Bill with Roxx Records had this to say about the new addition to their roster: “It has been a long time coming for Roxx to finally be able to work with LORDCHAIN and we are very excited to be partnering with them finally. My first introduction to the band was back around 2011 when a mutual good friend of ours Dale Huffman from Metal Pulse Radio shared the music and ministry of LORDCHAIN with me and I knew they were a band that would make a difference and be a good fit for Roxx Records, and we can’t wait to share their new album with the world.”
Surviving The Wicked Storm continues on in the heavy metal arena the band has always been following but they take it to the next level with this one. Featuring 12 brand new tracks that LORDCHAIN fans will enjoy and have grown to love and expect from these guys! The first single “Straight and Narrow” is being serviced to radio now and is available for streaming above.
“Surviving The Wicked Storm” is scheduled for release on Wednesday November 23, 2022 just in time for Thanksgiving.
Pre orders are live now at the special introductory price of $11.99 until release date.
Surviving The Wicked Storm track listing:
1. “Shed Your Skin”
2. “There's A Way Out”
3. “Straight And Narrow”
4. “When I Was Naïve”
5. “Time, Precious Time”
6. “Fragile Life”
7. “Broken Pieces”
8. “The Outrage Mob”
9. “Burn Away (Reprise)”
10. “Everybody Sins”
11. “Game Changer”
12. “Cot To Black”
Surviving The Wicked Storm pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/lordchain
LORDCHAIN online: https://www.facebook.com/lordchain
KEVIN PIKE’s Guitar Graffiti (Featuring Tim Gaines) Coming To Roxx Records:
Album Release: November, 23, 2022
We aren’t quite done yet here at Roxx Records for 2022! We have two last releases going live this week, then we head into the holidays with some killer holiday plans for you all! Up first, instrumental guitar and bass driven madness, then this Thursday, we announce one very special final release for 2022.
First up, a killer new instrumental EP from some killer musicians is headed your way! We have two powerhouse players on this one including Kevin Pike of ARSENAL out front, and the one and only Timothy Gaines (ALDO NOVA, OF GODS & MONSTERS, STRYPER) handling all the bass duties. Get ready as we bring to you Guitar Graffiti!
Let’s hear directly from the man himself, Kevin Pike, just how he got into guitar and loving the instrumental music scene so much that it would lead us to Guitar Graffii:
“Prior to joining ARSENAL, shortly after our Regency Records release, Armored Choir, I had just graduated from G.I.T. (Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, California). I was a private student of Bruce Bouillet of RACER X, and my love for instrumental guitar kept me practicing for up to 16 hours a day non-stop. Right before ARSENTAL, I was featured in Guitar Magazine for some of my instrumental work, that’s when I originally got the slot for ARSENAL.
“Guitar Graffiti came about after studying and being mentored with Steve Lynch of AUTOGRAPH. He would encourage me to write again. Through contacts I had made in the Christian rock world, I asked Timothy Gaines if he would play bass. I was really encouraged by his response to the songs. Timothy felt that the material was very strong melodically and technically, and that was the push that I needed to complete Guitar Graffiti. Then, once I heard Timothy’s tracks, I knew we had something really special we needed to share with the world. I am so thankful to Roxx Records for helping me share this project and vision. I am very proud of it and excited for everyone to hear it. If you’re a fan of Timothy Gaines, get ready to hear him like you have never heard him before. All glory to Christ!”
Roxx Records is excited to bring you a very special limited-edition CD pressing of this killer new instrumental album entitled Kevin Pike’s Guitar Graffiti featuring Timothy Gaines. The CD will be released on Thanksgiving Eve, November 23, 2022, and you can pre-order right now up until Thanksgiving Day for only $7.77.
Guitar Graffiti track listing:
1. “Note Shaker (8 Finger Tapping)”
2. “Guitar Graffiti”
3. “Ode To The King”
4. “Gracias Ken (Nylon String)”
5. “Opus”
Guitar Graffiti pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/kevin-pike-kevin-pikes-guitar-graffiti-featuring-timothy-gaines-2022-cd-stryper-arsenal
FEATURED REVIEWS
THE BRAVE - Gravedigger
Fifth The Brave album Gravedigger from August of 2022 (also independent) trends similar musical territory but when placed alongside reveals a darker semblance (cover art and expanded low end does it for me) and on occasion a metal guitar sheen (found in some of the groups heaviest material). Read Full Review >>
Bühlmann, Roland - Emnalóc
Emnalóc, the summer of 2022 fifth solo album from Swiss based multi-instrumentalist Roland Bühlmann, embodies ambient instrumental music within a progressive rock framework. Read Full Review >>
CRY MERCY - Cry Mercy (Soundmass re-issue)
Listen to the Rowe Productions 1995 Cry Mercy self-titled debut full-length and you’ll feel like you’re traveling back several decades. Read Full Review >>
IMAGES OF EDEN - Weathered And Torn EP
Images Of Eden sports a musical direction that’s all new for its summer of 2022 5-song EP Weathered And Torn. Read Full Review >>
REIGN OF GLORY - All Will Bow
There is a sense of familiarity when listening to All Will Bow, the August of 2022 Roxx Records debut full length from Reign Of Glory. Read Full Review >>
SAINT - Heaven Fell
What we have in Heaven Fell is perhaps the best selecting of songs gracing a Saint record since The Mark/The Revelation- each cut brings that unique hook, riff or melody to separate from the rest and make an impression (there is not a bad let along average musical moment here). Read Full Review >>
TRINITY - Memories Of The Ancient Presence
The Trinity summer of 2022 Soundmass Records debut full-length Memories Of The Ancient Presence holds true to the traits instinctive of traditional doom metal, indicating thickset and weighty guitars, plodding tempos and a bleakly forlorn atmosphere. Read Full Review >>
VARIOUS ARTISTS - All Hallow’s Eve – We Love Hating Evil
Like a compilation album but uniquely drawing upon a conceptual basis, the September of 2022 Roxx Records release All Hallow’s Eve: We Love Hating Evil amasses 14 songs that each directly or indirectly tie-into the theme of Halloween. Read Full Review >>
Metal & Hard Rock News
STRYKEN, Precious Metal Box Set On Retroactive Records:
Album Release: December 15, 2022
Often referred to as the “fundamentalists in armor” and playing what it describes as “thunder rock,” STRYKEN was put together in Arizona in the late seventies by founding members Dale and Steve Streiker initially under the moniker STRYKER. After releasing a single and a four song demo, the two proceeded to place a want ad for a drummer, which led them to a talented timekeeper by the name of Joey Knight. A move to Austin came about in late 1982, and by the spring of the following year the band recorded a nine song cassette only release entitled Blitzkrieg that sold very well in the Southwest. By the mid-eighties, however, StTRYKER started to receive pressure from the STRYPER camp about changing its name. Yes, STRYKER rhythms with STRYPER, but one important thing to keep in mind is that the name STRYKER was trademarked by the band after it formed in the late seventies- a time when the boys in yellow and black were more than likely still in junior high school. Needless to say, cooler heads prevailed and the band agreed to make a change by switching the last letter in its name from an “r” to an “n”. Hence, STRYKEN was officially born. With a permanent name in place and its line up finalized with the addition of bassist Ezekiel Vade, STRYKEN went through a complete makeover in its image which saw each member of the group don body armor that is symbolic of the Armor of God as described in Ephesians 6:11. STRYKEN soon formed its own label, Chrystal Records, which it used to release a 12” single that included the tracks “Rock On” and “Surprise” in addition to its 1987 full length debut, appropriately entitled, First Strike (which came out only on cassette and red transparent vinyl).
Up to this point, all of STRYKEN’s previously recorded material had been released under the band name STRYKER. This includes their “45 RPM single” in 1980, ‘four song EP/Demo in 1981’ and Blitzkrieg album in 1983.
In 1986, they changed their name to STRYKEN, released their two song single titled “Rock On”/”Surprise” and went on to add bass player Ezekiel Vade. In 1987 they launched their eight song First Strike album and were one of the featured bands on K-TEL's Righteous Metal album with notable bands like PETRA, BARREN CROSS, BLOODGOOD and PHILADLEPHIA.
STRYKEN Once Lost… Now Found includes 14 songs with 7 new releases and 4 new songs that were ‘once lost’ but ‘now found’. Never released songs like “A Man,” “Momma,” and the up-tempo, bass guitar centric version of “I Need Your Love”, which begins with a killer synthesizer intro. Additionally, 3 live audio recordings ‘now found’ enhance the album with one track that covers the band member introductions and the bands message regarding the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The album closes with “I’ll Be Home,” which Dale Streiker wrote for his daughter when she was very young and recorded as a wedding gift for her. Re-mastered by Bombworks Sound and a full write up from Doug Van Pelt of Heaven's Metal magazine all come together to ensure fans get everything their collector's hearts desire!
Once Lost… Now Found track listing: “A Man”, “I Need You Love” (extended), “Rock On” (extended), “The Answer”, “One Way”, “Momma”, “Stryken Show Intro” (live), “Crush The Head Of Satan”, “Surprise”, “The Young Men Have a Vision” (live intro), “State Of Emergency”, “Riot”, “I'll Be Home”, “Stryken Band” (intros and message)
STRYKEN’s release of this 11 song Blitzkrieg album, was born from the early STRYKER years. In 1983, as STRYKER, Polygraph Records released this 10 song debut album titled Blitzkrieg with fellow band members Joey Knight (drummer) and David Kurowski (bass). The 11th song on this album is from their 1981 4 song EP of Right Of Way and aptly titled ‘original version’. The other 10 songs were produced by STRYKER and recorded at Third Coast Sound in Austin, Texas.
Blitzkrieg was initially released on cassette tape with plans to release on vinyl; however, the vinyl album was never released. Many radio and podcast personalities noted hearing slight influences of bands like MOT THE HOOPLE, QUEEN, KANSAS, ELO and THE CARS.
STRYKEN - Blitzkrieg shows the band’s evolution into more progressive rock with songs like “Right Of Way” and “Circus Man” while holding onto their pop/power punk roots with “I’m Alright” and “It’s Over.” This is also the band’s first use of a Bible reference as they put Job 37 at the end of the part number. The lightning bolt on the cover was inspired by Job 37 from the Old Testament which speaks to the wonderful power of God regarding the weather and says: “He (God) unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven and sends it to the ends of the earth” but also talks about God’s majesty and glory! Re-mastered by Bombworks Sound and a full write up from Doug Van Pelt of Heaven's Metal magazine all come together to ensure fans get everything their collector's hearts desire!
Blitzkrieg track listing: “Right Of Way”, “Cross The Line”, “Look Away”, “Need Your Love”, “Circus Man”, “Surprise”, “Played”, “I'm Alright”, “It's Over”, “Blitzkrieg” (prelude), “Right Of Way” (original)
STRYKEN, originally known as STRYKER, was formed in the late 1970’s by Dale and Stephen Streiker in Arizona with a vision that rock music, just like books, radio and TV could be wholesome and uplifting while subtly pointing people to the GOD who made the heavens and the earth.
In 1980, as STRYKER, BIRC Records released 2 of the 50+ songs they had written and released them on a 45 RPM record. The 2 songs, produced by Joe Bidwell, were recorded at Autograph Recording Studios in Tucson, Arizona and were titled “On The Phone” (Stephen) and “As The Rain Goes” (Dale). These songs, at the time, were considered to be in the Punk/Power Pop or New Wave genre similar to THE CARS, RAMONES, NEW YORK DOLLS and THE KNACK.
Soon thereafter, Joey Knight (drummer) and David Kurowski (bass), both from Tucson, joined STRYKER and now the stage was set to rapidly develop and record new music to share with their growing fan base.
STRYKEN - Stryker: The Early Years album, is an 8 song compilation of their musical work that contains 5 newly released songs, of which 4 have NEVER been released on CD nor MP3 including “Playing On The Radio,” “As The Rain Goes,” “On the Phone,” and “Life Can’t Be The Same” which provides you with a glimpse into how poverty and sacrifice played a positive role in their faith. Re-mastered by Bombworks Sound and a full write up from Doug Van Pelt of Heaven's Metal magazine all come together to ensure fans get everything their collector's hearts desire!
Stryker - The Early Years track listing: “On the Phone”, “As the Rain Goes”, “Playing On the Radio”, “Need Your Love”, “Life Can't Be the Same”, “Right Of Way”, “I'm All Right”, “It's Over”
Precious Metal Box Set pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/stryken-precious-metal-box-set-new-3-cd-box-set-2022-retroactive-iconic-classic-christian-metal
Once Lost… Now Found vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/stryken-once-lost-now-found-new-vinyl-2022-retroactive
News Briefs
* Online interview at Positive Rock Review with Steve Lamb of JUDEA: https://positiverockreview.blogspot.com/2022/11/livin-out-loud-interview-with-steve.html
* STEVEN PATRICK, Red Reign Re-issue on FNA Records:
1995 debut solo album Red Reign from former HOLY SOLDIER vocalist and 2013 country rock sophomore effort Guns & Gold were re-mastered and re-released on November 1, 2022. As noted in the FNA Records press material:
Former A&M recording artist, Steven Patrick is an award-winning singer, songwriter, lyricist, and producer. His list of achievements includes two Dove Awards, two additional Dove Award Nominations, as well as the Nashville Songwriters Association International Award for Superior Creativity in Music and Lyrics. As a member of HOLY SOLDIER, Steven also co-wrote the song, “Stranger,” which went to number one on Christian Rock Radio, and the song, “Last Train,” which peaked at number two. He has also appeared on MTV, and has toured the US and abroad, playing clubs, auditoriums, and arenas.
Steven was endowed early on with a vivid imagination and ability for words, combined with a rhythmic, and authentic, dynamic for style and melody. It has been said that Steven’s songwriting, while unique, is reflective of the classic songwriters of the 70s’s.
A seasoned artist and songwriter with a story to tell, Steven Patrick, combines vintage arrangements with storytelling lyrics that take you back to the future.
Red Reign ordering details: http://fnarecords.net/all-artists/steven-patrick/red-reign.html
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ANGELIC FORCES Release “Armageddon” Official Video:
Press Release / ANGELIC FORCES debut album Arise is scheduled for release on December 16, 2022 via No Dust Records (Europe) and Animated Insanity Records (US).
The group released the past week (link above) the official video for the track “Armageddon”.
The self-titled debut single off the album is also available for streaming: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fM3Nml32-eY
ANGELIC FORCES is a heavy metal band from the Netherlands strongly influenced by the 80’s metal scene, but with their own special sound. Founded in 2015 by bassist Wilco van der Meij (METHUSALEM), the group rounded out its lineup drummer Rudie Kingma, singer Harold de Vries (former METHUSALEM) and guitarist Maurice Gijsman (former L.S.D.). The Angelic Forces moniker was decided upon because it is a good fit for the style of music the band plays.
The first single from ANGELIC FORCES traces to June of 2016, which received positive reaction worldwide. An independently released three song-self titled EP followed in 2018 received both great reviews and worldwide attention from online magazines, radio shows and podcasts.
Over the years ANGELIC FORCES has created a steady fan base and played live with well known metal acts such as LEVITICUS, WAR OF AGES, PICTURE, TYGES OF PAN TANG, WHITECROSS, CRADLE OF FILTH, CANNIBAL CORPSE, PESTILENCE and KING DIAMOND.
Arise track list: “Rapture (Intro)”, “Armageddon”, “Through The Fire”, “Against”, “Arise”, “Mission To Hell”, “Repent Or Die”, “Religion Is A Lie”, “Fear No Evil”
No Dust CD pre-order: www.dustrecords.com/shop/cd-s-metal-new/angelic-forces-arise-cd-detail.html
No Dust black vinyl pre-order:www.nodustrecords.com/shop/vinyl-metal-new/angelic-forces-arise-lp-black-detail.html
No Dust gold vinyl pre-order: www.nodustrecords.com/shop/vinyl-metal-new/angelic-forces-arise-lp-colored-detail.html
Animated Insanity CD pre-order: www.animatedinsanityrecords.com/product-page/angelic-forces-arise-cd-2022-no-dust-records
Animated Insanity black vinyl pre-order: www.animatedinsanityrecords.com/product-page/copy-of-angelic-forces-arise-lp-2022-black-vinyl-no-dust-records
Animated Insanity gold vinyl pre-order: www.animatedinsanityrecords.com/product-page/angelic-forces-arise-cd-air-no-dust-records
ANGELIC FORCES online: www.angelicforcesband.com/en/home & www.facebook.com/angelicforcesband
New Single From FEAR NOT, “Voluntary Madness”:
Press Release / 2022 features the return of one of Christian rock’s greatest acts of the nineties. This band made their public debut actually being known as LOVE LIFE, releasing an album titled Goodbye Lady Jane on Blonde Vinyl in 1991. As the band began to progress they caught the ears of well-established producers John & Dino Elefante and a new journey was about to begin. Working with the famed producers the band would change their name to FEAR NOT and release their self titled album in 1993 upon the world via Pakaderm Records. The album would garner great reviews and praise from the media and the band would begin playing shows across the US. Unfortunately, as it happens all too often, life got in the way and the band would never actually make it to release a sophomore effort, ultimately disbanding.
Fast forward to 2017 and indie label Roxx Records searched the band out and ultimately start to work on a complete redesign and re-release of that amazing debut album. In 2017, working in conjunction with the band, that debut album would be beautifully re-mastered with enhanced artwork and reissued in a limited edition CD format and for the first time ever on limited edition vinyl. As a result, of this, those four original members of FEAR NOT would embark on a brand new journey and rekindle that band relationship and start to work on brand new music for the first time in almost 35 years. Added to the fold would be an additional vocalist working with the band by the name of Eddie Green, a seasoned touring vocalist, who previously fronted the metal band EVEN THE DOGS.
Now as a 5 piece, the band would record and release their debut music together as a beautiful new EP titled For The Wounded Heart. Five brand new tunes for the world to enjoy as this band was back and just beginning a new journey of life, music and ministry for a world that much needs it. For The Wounded Heart would get many great reviews and accolades which would spark that fire amongst the band and even get them out into the world to play shows again as a 5 piece.
It's been over 3 years since that first EP, the world had pretty much come to a stop as we dealt with a worldwide pandemic. While that worldwide downtime was going on, these guys were dealing with so much adversity in their personal lives, illness, death of loved ones, and so much more we didn’t think anything more would come to fruition. However, all along that troublesome pathway, it inspired the band, and they continued writing new music, recording new music and slowly building a brand new full-length release to share with this world. And now 2022 saw release of the much anticipated new full-length album from the legendary FEAR NOT.
FEAR NOT is set to embark on a new musical journey with the release of their sophomore full length album entitled Fields Of Sorrow. Fields Of Sorrow takes the listener on a heavy and heartfelt journey with the band as they prepare to release this full length album of all new music with meaning. Tracks that tackle many of the issues we face and deal with today, with the addition of some heavy and emotional music as your soundtrack, Fields Of Sorrow will definitely be on repeat play for many of us this year as we continue to navigate life through these troubled times.
On October 11th we unveiled the world premiere video for the fifth single, “Voluntary Madness”, from the new album. On the heels of the debut single “Struggle”, we are very excited to bring you the brand new single, so we hope you not only enjoy it but request it to be played wherever you listen or stream your music. The new single is on sale now digitally at all your favorite platforms, and has been serviced to radio around the world.
Fields Of Sorrow, featuring stunning new artwork from Scott Waters of NoLifeTilMetal Graphics, was released on July 8th, 2022 on CD and via all digital platforms. In addition, on September 17th, 2022 a limited edition black vinyl version was released and limited to only 200 copies worldwide.
Fields Of Sorrow track listing: “Riptide”, “Voluntary Madness”, “Fields Of Sorrow”, “Lay It All Down”, “Join Together”, “Black Soul Sunshine”, “Beautifully Broken”, “Struggle”, “Into The Grave”, “American Prayer”, “God’s Country” (bonus track), “Carry Me “Reprise” (bonus track)
Roxx Recodrds online: www.RoxxRecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
FEAR NOT online: www.facebook.com/FearNotRoxx
SEVENTH SERVANT Release “Forevermore” Single:
Press Release / The time has finally come and this one has been in the making for almost 15 entire years! When John Greely started to envision his magnum opus release The Tree Of Life he had no idea this one would become such a long endeavor. It was in 2006 when John started working on developing this very special project; he would bring to the fold many seasoned players to get this one just right. And now it has fully come to fruition, we bring you the first full length masterpiece by SEVENTH SERVANT.
A lyric video to the second single off the album, “Forevermore”, can be viewed above. The group previously released a lyric video to the first single, “Jezebel”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwPDOqMJJRw
“Jezebel” features a guest vocal performance from Tim “The Ripper” Owens (JUDAS PRIEST).
SEVENTH SERVANT is the brainchild of former ICED EARTH (Night Of The Stormrider) vocalist, John Greely. In 1992 ICED EARTH released their classic Night Of The Stormrider album. Greely would go on to play in a plethora of bands, always striving for a level of metal integrity in his music that most bands in the power metal genre lacked. All of this experience would lead Greely to this project, SEVENTH SERVANT! This debut release from SEVENT HSERVANT is more than your average metal release, this release is poised to bring the Book of Revelation to life in a way that you have never heard it before.
Roxx Records is very excited to be teaming up with SEVENTH SERVANT to bring you one of the most anticipated releases of 2022 with their magnum opus release entitled The Tree Of Life. Released on September 23, 2022, The Tree Of Life will be released in a beautiful 2 LP gatefold edition, with beautifully designed artwork, containing full lyrics on a very limited colored vinyl, as well as a black vinyl version. The release will also come as a 2 disc Limited Edition CD version: disc 1 will feature the whole brand new album, while disc 2 will feature the complete album in a voiceless, instrumental edition. Lastly, it will also be available at all of your favorite digital and streaming platforms.
The Tree Of Life track listing: “Revelation”, “The Almighty One”, “Forevermore”, “Tree Of Life”, “Whitestone”, “Jezebel”, “Open Door”, “Dialogismos”
Roxx Records online: https://roxxrecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
SEVENTH SERVANT online: www.facebook.com/seventhservant
“Knights Of No Tomorrow”, New Single From WEAPONS OF GOD:
Press Release / WEAPONS OF GOD announce their return, bringing a new set of Jesus Metal songs to fans with its September of 2021 Roxx Records sophomore album, The War Within US. The album comes out on the heels of its 2019 self-titled debut full length (also Roxx).
On October 20, 2022, the group released the fourth single from the album, “Knights Of No Tomorrow”, which premiered exclusively on Roxx Records and WEAPONS OF GOD channels on YouTube. A lyric video to the song can be streamed above.
Consisting of guitarists and vocalists Steve McGowan and Leon Black, bassist Ed Girard and drummer Greg Alan, WEAPON OF GOD frequently plays regionally in addition to leading Worship at the First Heavy Metal Church of Christ in Dayton, Ohio
WEAPONS OF GOD recorded The The War Within US in Dayton with Engineer, Ron Pease at The Refraze Studio. Pease has worked with other bands in the past such as THE GOO GOO DOLLS, NELSON and ex MEGADETH guitarist Jeff Young.
The War Within US is composed of ten new tracks including: a heavy, crushing, instrumental song to kick off the CD, “Deep Wordless Knowledge", the blistering, southern, dirty metal song, “Give 'Em Jesus", the chaotic, driven force of "Isolate", and the powerful but mellow song, "I Am with You". Completing the CD are two bonus track re-recordings from the debut CD Weapons Of God: "Anger" and "Weapons of God".
And, while each song varies in tone, the songs are all originals and circle back to one universal theme. The War Within US is about the war and destruction of the world, the war within our country and the war within our minds. Hence, the "US" is capitalized in the title for the United States and for each of US for the personal and daily fight against the spiritual warfare of evil and its temptations, and the rise and outcome in the end for the need of our Savior.
The War Within Us track listing: “Deep Wordless Knowledge”, “War Within” “Decline”, “Mary”, “Give ‘Em Jesus”, “Children Of The Light”, “Feign Dimension”, “Knights Of No Tomorrow”, “Isolate”, “I Am With You”, “Anger”, “Weapons Of God”
Roxx Records online: www.roxxrecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
WEAPONS OF GOD online: www.weaponsofgodmusic.com & www.facebook.com/WeaponsOfGodBand
NEWS BRIEFS
* AFTERWINTER premier new lyric video, “Within”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-tVvb3VljY
“Within” debuted on the Halloween compilation entitled We Love Hating Evil, which was released via Roxx Records on September 23, 2022.
The group is currently at work on its debut album Paramnesia also scheduled to come out on Roxx Records. Further details from guitarist Luke Nealeigh:
‘Paramnesia is coming along very nicely, and sounds more and more awesome each time we work on it! Sam (Nealeigh) is currently starting keyboards for the last long track on the second disc, so he is almost done. Majennica (Nealeigh) still has approximately half the album to record vocals for, and then after some dialogue and sound effects, all that will be left is mixing and mastering! This album is epic beyond anything we have ever done, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with everyone. It will still be awhile before we can call this behemoth done, but we promise it will be worth the long wait.”
Earlier in the year, AFTERWINTER released a 7” single to include the tracks “Light Replaces Darkness” and “Under Fire”.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BLOODGOOD, Live In America & Shakin’ The World Gold Disc Edition Re-issues On Roxx Records:
Album Release: October 28, 2022
Press Releases / Roxx Records is always striving to bring you the best quality reissues and some of the best new Christian Rock on the market. While we are more than excited to bring these two new reissues back to life, it’s a little bittersweet for us. It was early this year, when planning our 2022 release schedule, that these two titles were added to our release schedule. In fact, we had already begun working on them. Like the rest of the world we were shocked and saddened on July 29th when we learned of the untimely passing of one of the most iconic bass guitarists and the true ‘Metal Missionary’… Michael Bloodgood!
We were just about to send these off to press, and then we put them on hold. In fact, we were going to hold off on them even longer, but after discussing with Intense Records owner, we decided to move forward, in an effort to celebrate his amazing life and contributions to the music world, as well as to provide a little extra money to the family through the licensing costs of this release.
Without further ado, we are very excited for our next pair of Limited Edition Gold Discs featuring two much sought after titles in the BLOODGOOD catalog, Live in America Volume I and Shakin’ The World Volume II. Both of these classic albums have been beautifully re-mastered by Rob Colwell of Bombworks Sound in addition to having been given a beautiful new layout and design by Scott Waters of NLTM Graphics.
Each title comes complete with 12 page booklets to include full lyrics. Each title will be released on the prestigious gold disc format and will be released in a very limited quantity of only 500 pieces. Both titles will also come with reversible covers. This title is being released just in time for the holiday season on October 28, 2022 and pre orders are live now, and if you act fast there is a special package limited to only 50 copies that will include 2 added bonus stickers of each album cover.
Head over to Roxx Records today and get those pre orders in, while you’re at it check out the newly re-mastered edition of one of the most classic medleys in Christian Metal history, which is featured on Live In America Volume I: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xU2hvTnA4MU
Track Listing (Live In America): “Out Of The Darkness” (3:54), “Do Or Die” (2:23), “It's Alright” (4:01), “Hey You!” (4:15), “Alone In Suicide” (4:06), “She's Gone” (4:12), “Heaven On Earth” (3:43), “Shakin’ It” (2:49), “Soldier Of Peace” (3:35), “America” (3:50), “Never Be The Same” (3:45), “Medley: Demon On The Run, Killing The Beast, Battle Of The Flesh, Black (5:50)
Track Listing (Shakin’ The World): “Let My People Go” (4:22), “Mad Dog World” (4:33), “Top Of The Mountain” (5:59), “Awake” (4:00), “Eat The Flesh” (3:57), “Holy Fire” (2:59), “Crucify” (5:04),“The Sixth Hour” (2:04), “The Messiah” (4:18), “Accept The Lamb” (:19), “Seven” (6:51),“New Age Illusion” (4:42)
Live In America pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/bloodgood-alive-in-america-vol-i-2022-remaster-gold-cd
Shakin’ The World pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/bloodgood-shakin-the-world-2022-remaster-gold-cd
BLOODGOOD online: www.bloodgoodband.com & www.facebook.com/bloodgoodband
STRYPER Unveil “Same Old Story” Official Video:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Christian rockers STRYPER have released the official music video for their latest single “Same Old Story". The song will appear on their upcoming studio album The Final Battle, which is due on October 21 via Frontiers Music Srl. The follow-up to 2020's Even The Devil Believes was produced by guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet and was once again recorded at SpiritHouse Recording Studios in Northampton, Massachusetts.
In a recent interview with "The Chuck Shute Podcast", Sweet discussed the inspiration for the title and artwork for The Final Battle. He said: "The story behind the title and the artwork is the battle of Armageddon, which is ultimately the final battle, biblically speaking. And that's really what we're referring to, for the most part."
Asked if he thinks the Battle of Armageddon is something that "coming soon," Sweet said: "Well, I'll tell you, man, if you say that in today's world, boy, you are labeled an instant loon - you're a loon, you're crazy and you need to be committed and you're out of your mind. But yet at the same time, when you go through the Bible, if you were to really dive deep into the Bible and have someone explain the theory of it to you and the stories that are behind the stories - so someone really smart, who isn't me - they could explain to you stuff that would make your chin hit the floor. And all the stuff that the Bible predicted that has already taken place, and really the only thing left is God's return and what follows after that, one of those things being the battle of Armageddon.
"People can laugh and sneer and think Christians are crazy, and that's fine," Michael continued. "I believe in the Bible, I believe what it says, and I think those times are coming. I think we're living in those times — absolutely, for sure. We live in a very interesting world, and I think everyone could at least agree on that — that times have changed dramatically in the past two years."
When asked by host Chuck Shute to clarify whether he truly believes we are "on the cusp" of the Battle of Armageddon, Michael said: "Yeah, I do. Those people out there who watch this moment, when I say 'yeah,' who roll their eyes and think I'm crazy, that's fine. You guys can go ahead and keep thinking people like myself are crazy. The only thing I can say to that is when that day comes and it's reality, obviously everyone will know that those who believed weren't crazy, and then at that point it'll be too late for the people who thought those people were crazy."
When Shute noted that the people who are labeled "crazy" are the ones who claim that they know the exact date and circumstances leading up to the big apocalypse, Michael said: "And the Bible is very clear about that too: 'No man will know the hour.' No man knows the hour. You can't sit and (say), 'Okay, according to this timeline, yeah, He's coming on this day.' And that's what people try to do. You can't.
"I think we're definitely living in the end times, but that could be short, that could be relatively soon, in the very near future, or that could be in a relatively distant future," Sweet explained. "I don't think it's gonna be hundreds of thousands of years from now, but I think that it's coming and our time is marked. And look, we may get hit by a giant comet before God comes back. Who knows?
"I think sometimes we think we're invincible - nothing can hurt us - and, obviously, COVID kind of taught us a lesson on that, didn't it?" Michael added ."We are not invincible and anything can happen at any given time unexpectedly that leaves us in awe, saying, 'Oh my gosh. I had no idea. I never even imagined that ever happening.' And it can and will happen. It's just a matter of time."
Formed 39 years ago, STRYPER'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, God Damn Evil and the band's latest effort, Even The Devil Believes.
In a 2018 interview with the Detroit Free Press, Michael said that STRYPER was never fully embraced by the heavy metal and hard rock communities, largely because of the band's Christian lyrics.
"We've never been accepted by either side," he said. "The secular side, the mainstream, they've never accepted us to this day. We're probably that band that everyone's going to go to whenever there's a time to mock. We'll be the band used for that in most cases. Now on the Christian side, we've never really had the full support of the Christian side because we don't fit into their little club. We're not wearing suits and ties and going to every church and preaching."
The Final Battle track listing:
1. “Transgressor’
2. “See No Evil, Hear No Evil”
3. “Same Old Story”
4. “Heart & Soul”
5. “Near”
6. “Out, Up & In”
7. “Rise To The Call”
8. “The Way, The Truth, The Life’
9. “No Rest For Wicked”
10. “Till Death Do Us Part”
11. “Ashes To Ashes”
FRONTIERS SRL online: www.frontiers.it/index.php & www.facebook.com/frontiersmusicsrl
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
TRUE STRENGTH Announce Compilation Album, Maximum Strength: The Best Of The First Decade:
Press Release / TRUE STRENGTH is honored to announce their first 'Best of' compilation album, Maximum Strength: The Best of the First Decade, will be released on October 10th, 2022 in digital format (CD Version to be released later this year, date to be determined)! Stay tuned for more information about the release as the date approaches!!
Maximum Strength: The Best Of The First Decade track listing:
Digital Version:
1. "Christian Battle Cry"
2. "Steel Evangelist"
3. "His Blood Is On Us"
4. "Joshua"
5. "Chariot of God"
6. "Michael the Archangel"
7. "The War We Fight"
8. "Worthy Is The Lamb"
9. "Burning Of Ai"
10. "Mourn Not The Delight of Your Eyes"
11. "Starve The Fires Of Molech"
12. "Don't Take The Mark Of The Beast"
13. "Immanuel"
14. "Blood-soaked Waters Of Merom"
15. "Harlot Bride"
CD Version:
1. "Christian Battle Cry"
2. "Steel Evangelist"
3. "His Blood Is On Us"
4. "Joshua"
5. "Chariot Of God"
6. "Michael the Archangel"
7. "The War We Fight"
8. "Worthy Is The Lamb"
9. "Blood-soaked Waters Of Merom"
10. "Harlot Bride"
11. "Starve The Fires Of Molech"
12. "Don't Take The Mark Of the Beast"
This album is being done to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of TRUE STRENGTH and will feature the most popular songs from the first five albums! Thank you to all of our friends and fans who have been so supportive of us and our music over the past ten years!
The album features the amazing artwork of artist Ryan Close!
TRUE STRENGTH online: https://truestrength.band & www.facebook.com/True-Strength-722436254439923
NEWS BRIEFS
* HUMAN CODE, ‘an incredible, eclectic mix of ultra-talented musicians from great metal bands, past and present’, recently released its debut demo appropriately entitled Demo 1.0. According to the group, the demo will “help fund a scripted video for (the song) "Socially Incorrect", which will see us fighting for our freedoms as lab-induced ‘thought controllers’ attempt to force the narrative
“No record company funding yet - choose your own price, but if you're able, please give above the minimum to film this important video. If you're moved by our music and would like to support us further, please come back and use the donation button below.”
The demo is available for download at: https://humancodemusic.com/shop-listen
HUMAN CODE lineup:
Michael Drive - Lead Vocals (BARREN CROSS, GALE FORCE)
George Ochoa - Guitars, Keyboards & Background Vocals (DELIVERANCE, WORLDVIEW)
Terry Russell - Drums (HOLY SOLDIER, NEON CROSS)
Todd Libby - Bass & Keyboards (WORLDVIEW, A STORY BEHIND)
Further details from Ochoa:
“As some of you have liked the previous bands that we have been in, HUMAN CODE will not disappoint. We strive to keep a modern heavy rock sound but our initial musical influences will always show through. There will definitely be some musical departures from anything that any of us have ever done before. Some “mature” type music if you will. But still rocking”.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
STRYPER, The Final Battle Details Revealed:
Album Release: October 21, 2022
Press Release / Legendary, long-running heavy metallers STRYPER are set to return with a brand new studio album, The Final Battle! Firmly continuing the trend established over their last few albums, The Final Battle sees the band growing heavier while also maintaining their trademark melodies, virtuoso guitar playing, and air tight rhythms.
The Final Battle was crafted during the most challenging time of the band's career. While they suffered the same setbacks faced by all artists during the course of the global pandemic, the band also had to contend with guitarist Oz Fox's ongoing battle with brain tumors and for Michael Sweet, a detached retina which required multiple medical procedures, the use of an eye patch, and limited mobility for stretches of time. But rather than let the adversity get them down, the band accepted these challenges and channeled it into writing some of the greatest songs of their storied career.
Defying all logic, The Final Battle somehow manages to best it's immediate predecessors, No More Hell To Pay (2013), Fallen (2015), God Damn Evil (2018), and Even The Devil Believes (2020), continuing the band's unprecedented late career streak of releasing arguably the best albums of their multi-decade career. How do they do it? Well, we may never know the answer, but we can be thankful that the gift of musical inspiration continues to find them as they consistently share their musical fountain of youth with heavy metal lovers around the globe.
When it comes to groundbreaking bands in the metal genre, STRYPER is renowned for their distinctive brand of “heavenly metal,” extraordinary crossover success, and venerable endurance. The group ascended to prominence in the 1980s with Billboard Top 40 hits like “Calling on You,” “Honestly,” and “Always There for You” and had maintained a global fan base since. STRYPER’s career album sales exceed 10 million worldwide, including 1986’s multi platinum release To Hell with the Devil. The band also made history when it notched two songs simultaneously in MTV’s Top 10 with videos “Free” and “Honestly”. While STRYPER is known for their Christian faith, their decades plus career in heavy metal has made them much more than just a ‘Christian metal’ band. Sure, that is part of who they are, but at the end of the day, they are simply a long-running and well respected heavy metal band with a late-career rebirth that has proved their enduring talent and musical skills are well intact.
Today, some 37+ years after emerging from the Southern California nightclub scene, the foursome continues to record, tour and perform for loyal fans around the globe. Comprising three original members including brothers Michael Sweet (lead vocals, guitar) and Robert Sweet (drums), Oz Fox (guitar) and newest band mate, seasoned bassist Perry Richardson (formerly of FIREHOUSE), the group finds itself creating their finest, most powerful music yet.
The Final Battle track listing:
1. “Transgressor’
2. “See No Evil, Hear No Evil”
3. “Same Old Story”
4. “Heart & Soul”
5. “Near”
6. “Out, Up & In”
7. “Rise To The Call”
8. “The Way, The Truth, The Life’
9. “No Rest For Wicked”
10. “Till Death Do Us Part”
11. “Ashes To Ashes”
The Final Battle ordering information: https://orcd.co/finalbattle
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
“Count To Zero”, Official Video From IMAGES OF EDEN:
Press Release / IMAGES OF EDEN announces its sixth studio recording, entitled Weathered And Torn. This EP features five tracks and is by far the group’s heaviest, most aggressive release to date. Weathered And Torn was released on September 16, 2022.
A video to EP opening track “Count To Zero” can be viewed above.
IMAGES OF EDEN notes how Weathered And Torn was shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the band does its best to say positive, the music on the EP also touches on how many lives have been negatively impacted by this difficult time.
Vocalist and rhythm guitarist Gordon Tittsworth says, “Even with a more aggressive delivery, Weathered And Torn still retains the signature IOE sound and message… elements of strength, perseverance and hope for better days are all still at the forefront, but this time there is also an added urgency that we must stay vigilant, bond together and lift each other through darker times. Now go and be somebody’s hero! Change a life! Begin today!”
Weathered And Torn track listing:
1. “Count To Zero”
2. “Survivor’s Guilt”
3. “Weathered And Torn”
4. “Coexistence”
5. “The Dead Me”
IMAGES OF EDEN online: https://imagesofeden.com/index2.htm & www.facebook.com/imagesofeden
Roxx Records Announce Debut Album From NOT OF THIS WORD, Never Forget:
Album Release: September 30, 2022
Press Release / NOT OF THIS WORLD is an exciting new project featuring music written and performed by Clay Ashbrook, with vocals and lyrics by Dale Thompson of BRIDE with guest appearances on several tracks by Derek Sherinian of DREAM THEATER and SONS OF APOLLO on keyboards and organs and the project was fully mastered by Ty Tabor of KING’S X.
This project's genesis is in Clay Ashbrook's living room, where he composed and recorded all the music. Dale Thompson would then take the music and craft lyrics and melodies that fit perfectly within each song. This process started with 2 or 3 songs which expanded to a full albums worth over the last year and a half. This album cannot be defined by any one genre. You will find metal, rock, alternative, acoustic songs and ballads on this album. We are releasing this project in the hopes that people will enjoy the music and find something in the Christ-centered message of the lyrics that speaks to them in some way.
Today we unveil the world premiere music video for the second single and first lyric video entitled “The Last Victim” featuring the video talents of Dave Kruse of KruseFX.
Also, back in August we unveiled the debut single entitled “Never Forget” as well as the brand new cover art. “Never Forget” features Derek Sherinian of Dream Theater on organs and keyboards: https://youtu.be/WeejHsYGeWU
Pre orders are live now for the first full length release from “Not Of This World” on limited edition CD, and also for digital and streaming outlets.
Never Forget track listing:
1. “Never Forget”
2. “Last Victim”
3. “Heaven And Hell”
4. “The Redeemed”
5. “Lord You Know”
6. “God's On The TV”
7. “Beyond Infinity”
8. “Looking For Paradise”
9. “Distance Between Me And You”
10. “Inside”
11. “Roll Away The Stone”
12. “Perfect Harmony” (bonus track)
Never Forget pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/not-of-this-world-never-forget-2022-cd-featuring-kings-x-dream-theater-bride-members
STRYPER Unveils “Transgressor” Official Video:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Christian rockers STRYPER have released a new single, "Transgressor". The song will appear on their upcoming studio album The Final Battle, which is due on October 21 via Frontiers Music Srl. The follow-up to 2020's Even The Devil Believes was produced by guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet and was once again recorded at SpiritHouse Recording Studios in Northampton, Massachusetts.
Sweet commented: ‘Transgressor is a ride like no other. You take off at 100 MPH and it doesn't let up until the very last note. It's definitely one of our heaviest songs yet we wanted to incorporate melody and structure. We're really excited about this one and we can't wait to perform it live!’
In a recent interview with "The Chuck Shute Podcast", Sweet discussed the inspiration for the title and artwork for The Final Battle. He said: ‘The story behind the title and the artwork is the battle of Armageddon, which is ultimately the final battle, biblically speaking. And that's really what we're referring to, for the most part.’
Asked if he thinks the battle of Armageddon is something that is coming soon, "Sweet said: ‘Well, I'll tell you, man, if you say that in today's world, boy, you are labeled an instant loon - you're a loon, you're crazy and you need to be committed and you're out of your mind. But yet at the same time, when you go through the Bible, if you were to really dive deep into the Bible and have someone explain the theory of it to you and the stories that are behind the stories - so someone really smart, who isn't me - they could explain to you stuff that would make your chin hit the floor. And all the stuff that the Bible predicted that has already taken place, and really the only thing left is God's return and what follows after that, one of those things being the battle of Armageddon.
‘People can laugh and sneer and think Christians are crazy, and that's fine, Michael continued. ‘I believe in the Bible, I believe what it says, and I think those times are coming. I think we're living in those times - absolutely, for sure. We live in a very interesting world, and I think everyone could at least agree on that - that times have changed dramatically in the past two years.’
When asked by host Chuck Shute to clarify whether he truly believes we are ‘on the cusp; of the battle of Armageddon, Michael said: ‘Yeah, I do. Those people out there who watch this moment, when I say 'yeah,' who roll their eyes and think I'm crazy, that's fine. You guys can go ahead and keep thinking people like myself are crazy. The only thing I can say to that is when that day comes and it's reality, obviously everyone will know that those who believed weren't crazy, and then at that point it'll be too late for the people who thought those people were crazy.’
When Shute noted that the people who are labeled ‘crazy’ are the ones who claim that they know the exact date and circumstances leading up to the big apocalypse, Michael said: ‘And the Bible is very clear about that too: 'No man will know the hour.' No man knows the hour. You can't sit and (say), 'Okay, according to this timeline, yeah, He's coming on this day.' And that's what people try to do. You can't.
‘I think we're definitely living in the end times, but that could be short, that could be relatively soon, in the very near future, or that could be in a relatively distant future,’ Sweet explained. ‘I don't think it's gonna be hundreds of thousands of years from now, but I think that it's coming and our time is marked. And look, we may get hit by a giant comet before God comes back. Who knows?
‘I think sometimes we think we're invincible - nothing can hurt us - and, obviously, COVID kind of taught us a lesson on that, didn't it?’ Michael added .’We are not invincible and anything can happen at any given time unexpectedly that leaves us in awe, saying, 'Oh my gosh. I had no idea. I never even imagined that ever happening.' And it can and will happen. It's just a matter of time.’
Formed 39 years ago, STRYPER'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, God Damn Evil and the band's latest effort, Even The Devil Believes.
In a 2018 interview with the Detroit Free Press, Michael said that STRYPER was never fully embraced by the heavy metal and hard rock communities, largely because of the band's Christian lyrics.
‘We've never been accepted by either side’, he said. ‘The secular side, the mainstream, they've never accepted us to this day. We're probably that band that everyone's going to go to whenev
FRONTIERS SRL online: www.frontiers.it/index.php & www.facebook.com/frontiersmusicsrl
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
KALAMITY KILLS, New Band From Jamie Rowe:
Courtesy of www.bravewords.com
KALAMITY KILLS debuts first single “Sinners Welcome” on 09/2/22, produced by Jamey Perrenot, who has worked with Taylor Swift, Leann Rimes, Joey Belladonna and Guardian. KALAMITY KILLS is veteran vocalist Jamie Rowe with a revolving cast of musicians who will remain anonymous and wear masks while performing.
Jamie Rowe shares: “I strongly believe in God but am aware that God’s ‘fan club’ aren’t necessarily the most welcoming folks on the planet. “Sinners Welcome” is a commentary on that. I want my music to be heard by lovers of hard rock. That’s my goal: find those who will tune into what I’m doing. If anything, maybe someone just needs to hear the riff cranked up in the car after a long day at work.”
About Jamie Rowe:
Jamie Rowe is best known as the vocalist for Christian hard rockers GUARDIAN. He also has recorded many albums with Bronx-based melodic hard rock band ADRIANGALE. With a touring history of over 35 countries, KALAMITYKILLS is sure to appeal globally to those who loved his previous work, as his trademark vocals are well represented here.
A crowd-fund campaign for a full 11-song album will be launched in September in addition to a music video for “Sinners Welcome” (featured above).
KALAMITY KILLS online: www.instagram.com/kalamitykills, www.facebook.com/kalamitykills & www.facebook.com/jamierowe
SEVENTH SERVANT Announce Debut Album, The Tree Of Life:
Album Release: September 23, 2022
Press Release / The time has finally come and this one has been in the making for almost 15 entire years! When John Greely started to envision his magnum opus release The Tree Of Life he had no idea this one would become such a long endeavor. It was in 2006 when John started working on developing this very special project; he would bring to the fold many seasoned players to get this one just right. And now it has fully come to fruition, we bring you the first full length masterpiece by SEVENTH SERVANT.
SEVENTH SERVANT is the brainchild of former ICED EARTH (Night Of The Stormrider) vocalist, John Greely. In 1992 ICED EARTH released their classic Night Of The Stormrider album. Greely would go on to play in a plethora of bands, always striving for a level of metal integrity in his music that most bands in the power metal genre lacked. All of this experience would lead Greely to this project, SEVENTH SERVANT! This debut release from SEVENT HSERVANT is more than your average metal release, this release is poised to bring the Book of Revelation to life in a way that you have never heard it before.
Roxx Records is very excited to be teaming up with SEVENTH SERVANT to bring you one of the most anticipated releases of 2022 with their magnum opus release entitled The Tree Of Life. Slated for release this September, The Tree Of Life will be released in a beautiful 2 LP gatefold edition, with beautifully designed artwork, containing full lyrics on a very limited colored vinyl, as well as a black vinyl version. The release will also come as a 2 disc Limited Edition CD version: disc 1 will feature the whole brand new album, while disc 2 will feature the complete album in a voiceless, instrumental edition. Lastly, it will also be available at all of your favorite digital and streaming platforms.
As we get ready to unleash this monster of an album for the world to hear, at such a critical time in our world, we invite you to hear the debut single from The Tee Of Life. “Jezebel” is the debut single now being serviced to radio- be sure to call in and request it wherever you listen to your music. This single needs to be heard and we invite you now to hear the debut lyric video, which also features guest vocals from the one and only Tim “The Ripper” Owens (JUDAS PRIEST).
Be prepared as on September 23rd 2022 The Tree Of Life will arrive for all to hear as SEVENTH SERVANT are taking metal to the next level as they strive to truly awaken your soul and empower your minds!
The Tree Of Life track listing:
1. “Revelation”
2. “The Almighty One”
3. “Forevermore”
4. “Tree Of Life”
5. “Whitestone”
6. “Jezebel”
7. “Open Door”
8. “Dialogismos”
The Tree Of Life green translucent vinyl pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/seventh-servant-the-tree-of-life-2lp-kelly-green-translucent-lp
The Tree Of Life black vinyl pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/seventh-servant-the-tree-of-life-lp-black-lp
The Tree Of Life CD pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/seventh-servant-the-tree-of-life-cd-2-disc-limited-edition-set
Roxx Records Announce Christian Metal Halloween Compilation, We Love Hating Evil:
Album Release: September 23, 2022
Press Release / This one has been a long time coming, are you ready for the first all Christian Metal Halloween compilation? We sure are, this one has been in the planning stages for a couple years now, but the time has come to unveil it. Much like Santa stole Christmas, or the Turkey stole Thanksgiving, we’re stealing Halloween back! Who says you can’t be a Christian and have a little fun?
This Halloween get prepared as Roxx Records brings you this newly compiled masterpiece all mastered together by Rob Colwell of Bombworks Sound, with brand new cover art designed by Ward Silverman, and a killer layout and design by Scott Waters of NoLifeTilMetal Graphics. This once in a lifetime collection of Halloween music comes our way featuring some of our classic old favorites, some brand new music, and three previously unreleased tracks.
This compilation starts off with a very special message from Pastor Bob Beeman and then from there we head right into the metal, starting off with the classic track from VENGEANCE RISING “I Love Hating Evil” which is very fitting don’t you think?
From there the metal never stops, brand spanking new music from THE BRAVE, AFTERWINTER (previously unreleased), RITUAL SERVANT (previously unreleased from their forthcoming third limited edition 7”), and a brand new cover song featuring Dale Thompson (BRIDE) as we finally get to hear him conquer in the studio one of those classic STRYPER tunes as he belts out “To Hell With The Devil” with the help of the amazing bay area band SOVEREIGN CROSS! In fact, this is the lead-off single for this new compilation, check out a video to “To Hell With The Devil” (featured above).
This compilation has classic tunes from BLOODGOOD, DELIVERANCE, HOLY SOLDIER and BRIDE to name a few. And who remembers the amazing guys from STRYKEN? How could we not do a Halloween themed compilation without “Crush The Head of Satan”. Also some newer tunes from some of today’s top Christian metal artists like MOTIVIK, WEAPONS OF GOD and we have to include the mighty GRAVE ROBBER on this one don’t you think? We end the compilation with a killer track from THE MIGRAINES featuring Robert Sweet (STRYPER) on drums with their classic track “I Hate Evil”
Lots of killer Christian metal to pull out every fall season for many Halloweens to come! This compilation also comes housed in a jewel case with a FULL 16 page booklet! That’s right, a full size booklet for this one. Each artist has their own page with band photos, lyrics and media links to reach them all, including a written message from Pastor Bob Beeman!
Happy Halloween everyone and what do we want to remember on this ‘All Hallows Eve’? “We Love Hating Evil”
We Love Hating Evil track listing:
1. “A Halloween Message from Pastor Bob Beeman”
2. VENGEANCE RISING - “I Love Hating Evil”
3. THE BRAVE - “Gravedigger”
4. SOVEREIGN CROSS - “To Hell With The Devil” (featuring Dale Thompson of BRIDE)*
5. BRIDE - “All Hallows Eve”
6. STRYKEN - “Crush The Head Of Satan”
7. GRAVE ROBBER - “The Night Evelyn Came Out From The Grave”
8. BLOODGOOD - “Killing The Beast”
9. DELIVERANCE - “Slay The Wicked”
10. HOLY SOLDIER - “Hallows Eve”
11. RITUAL SERVANT - “Lazarus”*
12. MOTIVIK - “Pale Rider”
13. WEAPONS OF GOD - “Ghost”
14. AFTERWINTER - “Within”*
15. THE MIGRAINES - “I Hate Evil” (featuring Robert Sweet of STRYPER)
*previously unreleased tracks
Pre-orders are live now with an official release date of September 23, 2022: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/all-hallows-eve-we-love-hating-evil-cd-2022-roxx-records-compilation
FEATURED REVIEWS
BRIDE - Kinetic Faith Demos & Snakes In The Playground Demos
Those were the golden years, back when Bride was at its artistic and creative peak with the release of its Star Song Records fourth and fifth albums Kinetic Faith and Snakes In The Playground from 1991 and 1992, respectively. Read Full Review >>
FEAR NOT - Fields Of Sorrow
With said momentum behind it, Fear Not returned to the studio with the same lineup to records its summer of 2022 second full length album Fields Of Sorrow (also Roxx). Read Full Review >>
FLAME IMPERISHABLE - Glory & Ruin
If you are a symphonic power-progressive metal enthusiast, the independent August of 2022 sophomore album Glory & Ruin from Flame Imperishable ought to command your attention. Read Full Review >>
MCKENNA - Are You Ready
From straightforward to blues based to that with a progressive touch, the 2020 independently released debut full length Are You Ready from McKenna offers something for almost every hard rock fan. Read Full Review >>
RESURRECTION BAND - Awaiting Your Reply (Girder Music re-issue)
Although hard music historians inevitably point to Stryper as the dawn of the current Christian hard music scene, its real origin - at least as far as those in the know is concerned - traces to the late seventies emergence of Resurrection Band. Read Full Review >>
RESURRECTION BAND - Rainbow’s End (Girder Music re-issue)
Most hard music fans agree: The Resurrection Band 1979 Star Song Records sophomore album Rainbow’s End is a step up compared to its 1978 predecessor Awaiting Your Reply (also Star Song). Read Full Review >>
SIGN OF JONAH - Day Of The Lord
With upgraded production and strong selection of songs, Sign Of Jonah is stepping up its game with the April of 2022 release to its sophomore album Day Of The Lord. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Roxx Records Announce Preachers Of The Underground - Volume 1 Sampler:
Press Release / Roxx Records is bringing you a brand new compilation series. We work with many wonderful bands both of days gone by in addition to new artists! So lets celebrate the music and ministries of these killer bands both Past & Present as we bring you Preachers Of The Underground - Volume 1.
Volume 1 celebrates the class of 2022 with a selection of some of the recent reissues we brought back to life as well as celebrates the new music of our Roxx Records Roster. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
Preachers Of The Underground - Volume 1, a Roxx Records sampler
Take a look at some of the old school preachers:
JUDEA - “Heart Of Stone” (taken from the re-master Out Of The Dark)
GOLGATHA - “Prisoner” (taken from the re-master Prisoner)
CHARIOT - "Wise Eyes” (taken from the re-master History Lesson)
ANTIOCH - “Let It Flow” (taken from the re-master Spontaneous Combustion)
GUARDIAN ANGEL - “Immortality” (taken from the re-master Fire From Heaven)
TELESTAI - “On The Line” (taken from the re-master It Is Finished)
LEVITICUS - “Foij Mig” (taken from the re-master Sta Och Titta Pa)
And then let’s take a look at some of the new school preachers:
FEAR NOT - “Fields Of Sorrow” (taken from the new album Fields Of Sorrow)
REIGN OF GLORY - “Welcome To Reality” (taken from the new album All Will Bow)
SEVENTH SERVANT - “Jezebel” (taken from the upcoming album The Tree Of Life)*
ALL FOR THE KING - “The Seventh Seal” (taken from the new album Let There Be Light)
VULTURES GATHERING - “America” (taken from the upcoming album The Hunt)
LATTER REIGN - “Latter Reign’ (taken from the new album II)
THE RECONCILED - “Skin & Bones” (taken from the new album Skin & Bones)
TRUE STRENGTH - “Chariot Of God” (taken from the new album The House, The Holy, The Third)
NOT OF THIS WORKD - “Never Forget” (taken from the upcoming album Never Forget)*
RITUAL SERVANT - “Hearers And Doers” (taken from the 7”Single Veritas (Part 1 of 4)**
* Tracks 10 and 16 previously unreleased from their respective upcoming albums
** Track 17 previously unreleased outside of the limited edition 7" vinyl format
Preachers Of The Underground- Sampler 1 ordering information: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/preachers-of-the-underground-vol-1-promotional-cd-sampler
FEAR NOT Release New Single, “Black Soul Sunshine”:
Press Release / 2022 features the return of one of Christian rock’s greatest acts of the nineties. This band made their public debut actually being known as LOVE LIFE, releasing an album titled Goodbye Lady Jane on Blonde Vinyl in 1991. As the band began to progress they caught the ears of well-established producers John & Dino Elefante and a new journey was about to begin. Working with the famed producers the band would change their name to FEAR NOT and release their self titled album in 1993 upon the world via Pakaderm Records. The album would garner great reviews and praise from the media and the band would begin playing shows across the US. Unfortunately, as it happens all too often, life got in the way and the band would never actually make it to release a sophomore effort, ultimately disbanding.
Fast forward to 2017 and indie label Roxx Records searched the band out and ultimately start to work on a complete redesign and re-release of that amazing debut album. In 2017, working in conjunction with the band, that debut album would be beautifully re-mastered with enhanced artwork and reissued in a limited edition CD format and for the first time ever on limited edition vinyl. As a result, of this, those four original members of FEAR NOT would embark on a brand new journey and rekindle that band relationship and start to work on brand new music for the first time in almost 35 years. Added to the fold would be an additional vocalist working with the band by the name of Eddie Green, a seasoned touring vocalist, who previously fronted the metal band EVEN THE DOGS.
Now as a 5 piece, the band would record and release their debut music together as a beautiful new EP titled For The Wounded Heart. Five brand new tunes for the world to enjoy as this band was back and just beginning a new journey of life, music and ministry for a world that much needs it. For The Wounded Heart would get many great reviews and accolades which would spark that fire amongst the band and even get them out into the world to play shows again as a 5 piece.
It's been over 3 years since that first EP, the world had pretty much come to a stop as we dealt with a worldwide pandemic. While that worldwide downtime was going on, these guys were dealing with so much adversity in their personal lives, illness, death of loved ones, and so much more we didn’t think anything more would come to fruition. However, all along that troublesome pathway, it inspired the band, and they continued writing new music, recording new music and slowly building a brand new full-length release to share with this world. And now 2022 saw release of the much anticipated new full-length album from the legendary FEAR NOT.
FEAR NOT is set to embark on a new musical journey with the release of their sophomore full length album entitled Fields Of Sorrow. Fields Of Sorrow takes the listener on a heavy and heartfelt journey with the band as they prepare to release this full length album of all new music with meaning. Tracks that tackle many of the issues we face and deal with today, with the addition of some heavy and emotional music as your soundtrack, Fields Of Sorrow will definitely be on repeat play for many of us this year as we continue to navigate life through these troubled times.
On August 30th we unveiled the world premiere video for the fourth single, “Black Soul Sunshine”, from the new album. On the heels of the debut single “Struggle”, we are very excited to bring you the brand new single, so we hope you not only enjoy it but request it to be played wherever you listen or stream your music. The new single is on sale now digitally at all your favorite platforms, and has been serviced to radio around the world.
Fields Of Sorrow, featuring stunning new artwork from Scott Waters of NoLifeTilMetal Graphics, was released on July 8th, 2022 on CD and via all digital platforms. In addition, on September 17th, 2022 a limited edition black vinyl version was released and limited to only 200 copies worldwide.
Fields Of Sorrow track listing:
1. “Riptide”
2. “Voluntary Madness”
3. “Fields Of Sorrow”
4. “Lay It All Down”
5. “Join Together”
6. “Black Soul Sunshine”
7. “Beautifully Broken”
8. “Struggle”
9. “Into The Grave”
10. “American Prayer”
11. “God’s Country” (bonus track)
12. “Carry Me “Reprise” (bonus track)
Roxx Records online : www.RoxxRecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
FEAR NOT online: www.facebook.com/FearNotRoxx
NEWS BRIEFS
* FEAR NOT is scheduled to appear at two summer festivals this year! Starting this weekend FEAR NOT will make a very special guest appearance at the "Immortal" festival on Sunday, September 4th as part of the 3 day exclusive Christian Metal festival.
Also, the band will be making a very special guest appearance at this year's "Rock'n The River 2022" festival in Arkansas the weekend of September 30th - October 2nd with the band appearing on the main stage on Saturday.
* “The Bitter Pill” is a new single released by JOHN EVANS on September 5, 2022 : www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KsIljgl80U
The song features guest vocal appearances from Serouj Guidanian and Jenny Stokes.
* New music video from PŸLON, “Sealed”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6VXuzMLjbM
The song comes off the Swiss doom metal acts upcoming album The Long Awaited Rock Circus.
* VOICE OF GLASS recently returned following extended hiatus with a new EP entitled Hours. The group uploaded a lyric video to a song off the EP entitled “All That Surrounds”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuO5zFelhmY
* WHITECROSS returns with a limited edition three song EP entitled Fear No Evil. Joining founding member and guitarist Rex Carroll is vocalist Dave Roberts, bassist Benny Ramos & drummer Michael Feighan.
The three songs in question include "Man In The Mirror", "Lion Of Judah" & "Fear No Evil”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSY8ijDp7f4, www.youtube.com/watch?v=4q-vxxDD9D0&t=1s & www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW8lbUTuVec&t=1s
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
SIGNUM REGIS, Remixed & Re-Mastered Version Of Exodus Announced:
Album Release: October 7, 2022
Press Release / Melodic metal band SIGNUM REGIS will release a remixed and re-mastered version of their third album Exodus on Digipak CD and digital on October 7th via Ulterium Records. The album is remixed and re-mastered by Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT, EVERGREY, AMARANTHE) and includes one bonus track as well as an extended 20 page booklet.
SIGNUM REGIS bassist Ronnie König comments:
"The Exodus album was our breakthrough album, because after we released it in 2013, many doors opened for us and our fan base grew like never before. 9 years have gone by, both the first and the second pressings are sold out and in such cases you have two options: either do another reprint or do a re-release with something special. Since this album is such a milestone in our career, doing something special at this point was something that we were very happy to do. It's not just a re-master. It's not just a remix. It's not just one added bonus track. It's all of that combined and more!
“We revisited all the old mix sessions and arrangements. In two cases (“Enslaved”, “Mountain Of God”) our current lead singer Jota Fortinho recorded additional backing vocals, in some cases, there are additional arrangements. We sent all the tracks to Jacob Hansen from Denmark, who is one of the best producers and mixers for this genre. He re-amped the guitars, mixed and mastered the whole album anew. We wish we had this sound back in the day, but it's better to have it late than never. And yes, there's a bonus track too! The song “Enslaved” was added to our live set list recently and Jota recorded his version for this re-release too."
Exodus (remixed & re-mastered 2022) track listing:
1. “On The Nile”
2. “Enslaved” (featuring Thomas Winkler, Jota Fortinho)
3. “The Promised Land” (featuring Michael Vescera)
4. “Let Us Go!” (featuring Eli Prinsen)
5. “Wrath Of Pharaoh” (featuring Samuel Nyman)
6. “The Ten Plagues” (featuring Matt Smith)
7. “Last Days In Egypt”
8. “Exodus” (featuring Lance King)
9. “Song Of Deliverance” (featuring Daisa Munhoz, Lance King, Matt Smith)
10. “Mountain Of God” (featurin Mayo Petranin, Jota Fortinho)
11. “Sole Survivor” (featuring Görag Edman)
12. “Enslaved” (featuring Jota Fortinho) (bonus track)
Exodus (remixed & re-mastered 2022) pre-order: https://ulteriumstore.com/collections/cds/products/signum-regis-exodus-remixed-remastered-2022-digipak-cd-edition
SIGNUM REGIS online: www.signum-regis.com & www.facebook.com/SignumRegis
Global Rock Records Announce Re-release to IMPELLITTERI Back Catalog:
Press Release / Global Rock Records are excited to announce full overhaul and reissue of IMPELLITTERI back catalog titles for world outside Asia!
IMPELLITTERI: The band who ruled an empire with their aggressive power metal, shredding guitar solos, screaming vocals, and a monstrous rhythm section now bring a highly sought after body of music to the rest of the world!
Hot on the heels of it’s signing of LILLIAN AXE, Global Rock Records, the new label formed by the Store For Music company, are pleased to welcome Chris Impellitteri to it’s roster for full IMPELLITTERI back catalog reissues spanning the 1987-2009 period.
Chris Impellitteri is one of the most recognized guitarists in the hard rock/heavy metal genre, standing alongside players such as Yngwie Malmsteen, Steve Vai and Paul Gilbert as far as virtuosity and sheer musical ability is concerned. The band IMPELLITTERI have constantly delivered quality records since it’s first ‘Black EP’ release back in 1987.
Viewers of MTV in the late 80’s will remember the video for “Stand In Line” being featured prominently and the many albums that have followed, however fans of Chris in western countries have often had trouble locating the IMPELLITTERI albums unavailable outside Asia. This is about to change as the following catalog albums are due to be re-released on all major digital platforms, with a career spanning anthology due early 2022, followed by physical releases throughout the year:
• Impellitteri (EP)
• Stand In Line
• Grin And Bear It
• Victim Of The System (EP)
• Answer To The Master
• Screaming Symphony
• Eye Of The Hurricane
• Crunch
• System X
• Pedal To The Metal
• Wicked Maiden
Chris states, “For years we have rocked with fans in specific countries because they embraced our music and encouraged us to become the band we are today! Although we have played to some massive audiences in various parts of the world, our band was unaware that our music was being embraced by so many people in other countries that we never played in or released records to. So it is with great pleasure to say we are releasing our back catalog for all those that want it globally… via Global Rock!
“A few records that seem to be fan favorites are Screaming Symphony, the ‘Black EP’, Answer To The Master, Wicked Maiden, Stand In Line and System X. Some of my favorite songs to play live from these records are “Lost In The Rain”, “17th Century Chicken Pick’n”, “Wicked Maiden”, “Speed Demon”, and so on.”
“IMPELLITTERI has also had the honor to have two versions of the band over the years having both Rob Rock and Graham Bonnet front the band vocally, which created two completely different sonic identities and fan bases for the band! It is great to finally get this music released alongside our latest global releases Venom and The Nature Of The Beast!”
Brian Adams of Global Rock adds: “As we are showing with our new acquisitions for Global Rock Records, our artist signings are getting stronger every month. We are delighted and proud to represent the back catalogue of IMPELLITTERI and look forward to working with Chris with a 3 CD set ‘Anthology’ planned for the spring of 2022 followed during the license term with some special collector’s gems for all of his fans”
Ordering Information: www.globalrockrecords.com/iq.html
IMPELLITTERI online: https://impellitteri.net & www.facebook.com/chrisimpellitteriofficial
Global Rock Records To Release IMPELLITTERI Compilation, Wake The Best - The Impellitteri Anthology:
Album Release: September 30, 2022
Press Release / For the first time ever, the IMPELLITTERI catalog has been made available worldwide: A legendary guitarist around the world, Chris Impellitteri is well known for his technical skill, as well as being an extremely melodic and proficient songwriter. Despite being a full American metal outfit, the IMPELLITTERI catalog has been hard to pin down for western fans, with many fans having to buy expensive import copies direct from Japan, where Chris enjoys a huge following... this has changed with Global Rock officially licensing the full catalog between the years 1987 and 2010.
In celebration of this occasion, Global Rock are releasing Wake The Beast a 3 CD set that encompasses the IMPELLITTERI story from 1987-2010. Every song here selected by Chris himself as to what he feels is the highlights from some 12 different releases. Whether its fan favourite Rob Rock on vocals or the legendary Graham Bonnet behind the mic, one thing can be sure, the intensity never lets up. This is the first ever IMPELLITTERI career spanning compilation released worldwide, featuring not only the well known album tracks, but rare Japan released only bonus songs, B-sides and more! Prepare to Wake The Beast...
Wake The Beast track listing Disc 1:
1. “Victim Of The System”
2. “Perfect Crime”
3. “Power Of Love”
4. “When The Well Runs Dry”
5. “17th Century Chicken Pickin’”
6. “Spanish Fire”
7. “Rat Race”
8. “Lost In The Rain”
9. “Father Forgive Them”
10. “Hungry Days”
11. “Eye Of The Hurricane”
Wake The Beast track listing Disc 2:
1. “Texas Nuclear”
2. “Speed Demon”
3. “On And On”
4. “Stand In Line”
5. “Secret Lover”
6. “Fly Away”
7. “Warrior”
8. “Hold The Line”
9. “The Young And The Ruthless”
10. “Ball And Chain”
11. “Wake Up Sally”
Wake The Beast track listing Disc 3:
1. “Wake Me Up”
2. “Falling In Love With A Stranger”
3. “Rock & Roll Heroes”
4. “Anti-Social Disease”
5. “Burning”
6. “Freakshow”
7. “Wicked Maiden”
8. “Garden Of Eden”
9. “Propaganda Mind”
10. “Stand Or Fall”
11. “I’ll Be With You”
Global Rock Records online: www.globalrockrecords.com
IMPELLITTERI online: https://impellitteri.net & www.facebook.com/chrisimpellitteriofficial
NEWS BRIEFS
* New single from WE ARE RESOLUTE, “We Are Human”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zf5iVZXEWKg
The song comes off the groups Dale Thompson (BRIDE) fronted sophomore album of the same title, which was released this past April via Roxx Records.
ARTIST COMMENTARY
Vocalist & founding member Chaz Bond in regards to the future of BIOGENESIS (Facebook - August 27, 2022):
“If you are a Bio fan, you likely already know that it has not been an easy road. Since forming the band over two decades ago, there have been many highs and many lows. There have been many era's of the band, each unique in its own way. Four Record Labels, multiple lineup changes, break ups and reunions. A tour with Mortification from Australia, one professional music video, live performances in Puerto Rico and around the U.S. Yet often underrated and overlooked. I am not afraid or ashamed to say that I believe that Bio deserves to be much more widely known and appreciated than we are. However, it has never been about being popular.
“Many things have changed over the years but one thing remains unchanged. The vision. I set out to create a band that offers much more than one particular sound or direction. Art has many shades and art imitates life. In life there are many emotions and many seasons. BioGenesis has always tried to capture many of our human emotions, while attempting to shine a light in the darkest moments and places, giving hope to those who feel hopeless. All while challenging many views and issue's that effect our world and our lives. I have always wanted to rattle some cages and challenge people to ponder the deeper side of life.
“I too have gone through a lot since the last album Rise Of The Phoenix was released. Much like the very band I created, my life has been shattered, and reborn from the ashes. My marriage came to a sudden end. I lost my home among others things. I went through a dark time and it took awhile for healing to really take hold. As you can imagine, I had to really think about the future of Bio. Here is what I had decided to do going forward:
“First of all I am bringing back the Iconic Fire Phoenix logo that made its debut back in 2017 with one of our best albums A Decadence Divine. I feel that this was one of our greatest eras and in some ways, we are heading in somewhat of a similar direction musically.
“After a lot of thought I have decided to go in a new direction. Tiago James was absolutely amazing on our last record. It was our heaviest album to date, and he did a great job helping me to get that very challenging but all important message out there and I am forever grateful to him. He has forever cemented his place in Bio history.
“All that said, I have decided to unite with Ryan Roebuck from Motivik, Ritual Servant and Vultures Gathering. Ryan will be the guitarist, but he will also be producing the next record as well as handling some keyboard. That's right. I have heard you the fans and I know that many if you missed that shade of the band on the last record. I love the way Ryan writes as he is very eclectic like myself, and he is perfect for the hybrid vision of BioGenesis and I am excited to welcome him aboard!
“Long time Bio bassist Randy Walton returns again. He played on. The Mark Bleeds Through, The Rise The Fall The Rebirth as well as Rise Of The Phoenix. I am happy to have such a foundational member of our history still in the fold! There is a working title as well as a new artist already working on the cover art. However it is way too soon to reveal those details at this time.
“Last but not least, we are also returning to Roxx Records. We are excited to reunite with Bill Bafford again! As exciting as this will surely be for diehard Bio fans, we will need to ask you for your patience. Ryan and I will not begin production until spring/fall.. Our goal is to unleash this beast in 2023. Until then, I will update you guys and gals along the journey to what I believe will be an absolutely epic album...”
Metal & Hard Rock News
TED KIRKPATRICK, In Memoriam:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Ted Kirkpatrick of the Christian metal band TOURNIQUET has died after a brief battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF),a rare terminal lung disease for which there is no cure. He was 62 years old. Primarily a drummer, Kirkpatrick was the principal songwriter for TOURNIQUET, and played other instruments whenever needed.
The news of Ted's passing was shared by his wife Cristy in a social media post late Friday night (August 19). She wrote: "I have some very sad news to share. My beloved husband went to be with the Lord today, August 19, 2022. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones. It was a blessing to see first-hand Ted's amazing passion for so many things that captivated him for life, and it was humbling to stand by and witness his genius, creativity and seemingly never-ending natural talent. I know many of you are broken-hearted and certainly Ted's wish would be to celebrate his memory through his music through TOURNIQUET.
"About 4 months ago, Ted was experiencing chest pain and unusual shortness of breath. Up until this point, Ted had not been in a hospital in 40 years and all covid tests came up negative, to the end. After several doctor visits to a general practitioner, Ted was referred to see a pulmonologist who conducted many tests and an accurate diagnosis was made of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF),a rare terminal lung disease of which there is no cure.
"IPF is a serious disease that causes irreversible scarring of the lungs and progresses, or gets worse, over time. This scarring makes it difficult to breathe and eventually the lungs can't inhale enough oxygen for the body to function properly. Typically, IPF causes severe shortness of breath to where the simplest activities of walking across a room seem nearly impossible.
"Ted was able to share a few thoughts the night before he passed.
'My life has been so full of adventure and wonderment and for the past 30 years all of you have been a great source of joy as you shared your love for our music, my passion for animals, and my desire to share the love of God with all of you. I'm forever grateful for the unending loyalty so many have shown through the years and support of whatever talents the Lord gave me on this earth.
"I leave behind so many wonderful friends, my wonderful family, the greatest family anyone could ask for, my brothers, Doug & Jim, my sister Sue, and my wife Cristy, my forever soul mate, my best friend and the most beautiful person I've ever known. Thank you and I'll see you sometime on the other side. Love, Ted Kirkpatrick'.
"I'll appreciate your prayers, Cristy.
"If you would like to help with Ted's expensive medical bills, a Go Fund me account has been set up."
A founding member of TOURNIQUET, Kirkpatrick's aggressive, musical and often unorthodox approach to drumming has been recognized by thousands - critics and fans alike. A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Ted began playing drums at age 12. By age 14, Ted was playing drums along with the records of many of his early influences - bands like RUSH, KING CRIMSON and ELP. He held a business degree from the University of Texas, Austin, where he graduated with honors, and often found himself using the skills learned in college in the many facets of successfully operating the band.
Entirely self-taught, Ted began to develop his own unique drumming style through a variety of influences. He was a great admirer of the classical masters and has attended countless classical concerts. His drumming and songwriting are influenced by the power of Beethoven and Mahler symphonies, the staccato bursts of Scarlatti's harpsichord sonatas, and the counterpoint of Bach's fugues, to name a few. His solo release In The Shadow Of The Masters featured Ted drumming to classics by Mozart, Beethoven, Rossini, Chopin, Paganini and others.
"To me, the fantastic music of the classical masters is in a totally different realm - there simply is no other music to compare it to," Ted said. "I believe it was a time in history that will never be repeated - kind of like when dinosaurs roamed the earth. In drumming to these timeless works as with any music, I always strive to treat the drums as a musical instrument - not just a noisy timekeeper."
Ted was well known for his ability to create and execute polyrhythms within the framework of songs, for his advanced double bass technique, and most of all for bringing a musicality to his drumming which is always apparent in TOURNIQUET songs. His approach to the drums as a musical instrument made even more sense in light of his role as TOURNIQUET's primary songwriter. He had written both music and lyrics for fifteen of TOURNIQUET's chart-topping singles, in addition to many other songs that showcase the technical, melodic, and eccentric side of the band evident on every TOURNIQUET album and his independently recorded and produced solo albums. The readers of HM magazine voted Ted "Favorite Drummer" 10 years in a row. He has been featured twice in Modern Drummer magazine, and countless drummers list him as one of their drumming influences.
Since the very first TOURNIQUET release in 1990, Stop The Bleeding,Ted had been a strong voice for animal welfare. "I have a lifelong passion for helping God's creation - the animals - and it matters greatly to me how they are treated," he said. You can hear and feel that passion in songs like "Ark Of Suffering", "Stereotaxic Atrocities", "Going, Going, Gone" - and in his "opus to animals" "Onward To Freedom". His first solo album, released in 2010 - "Ode To A Roadkill" - featured "vocals" courtesy of authentic haunting animal sounds, reflecting Ted's deep respect for the animal realm. "Ode" is a 42-minute hypnotic heavy wall of sound made possible by vintage Orange and Sunn amps. The title track refers to the sad reality of the millions of animals who die each year on our roadways.
Ted had a special fascination with butterflies and other insects. He had traveled to many places, including the jungles of Papua New Guinea, the Amazon, Malaysia, Taiwan, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, and the Solomon Islands. The fantastic, repetitive sounds of the jungle had influenced his drumming as well.
As principal lyricist for the band, his talent for allegory and symbolism, and using unusual and sometimes bizarre examples to convey "God's word" can be found throughout the TOURNIQUET catalog.
Last year, TOURNIQUET turned to the popular crowd funding platform Kickstarter to help with the necessary funds to record a new studio album. The band's loyal fanbase came through again by fully funding the band's $17,000 goal in only five days. (The campaign has since reached $29,000.) This was the band's sixth Kickstarter campaign, with all six reaching and exceeding the intended goal each time.
Past TOURNIQUET albums have featured a number of guest musicians, including guitarists Marty Friedman (MEGADETH),Chris Poland (MEGADETH),Pat Travers, Scotti Hill (SKID ROW),Bruce Franklin (TROUBLE) and Karl Sanders (NILE),and vocalists Tim "Ripper" Owens (JUDAS PRIEST),Chris Jericho (FOZZY),Michael Sweet (STRYPER),Deen Castronovo (JOURNEY),Corey Glover (LIVING COLOUR) and Doug Pinnick (KING'S X).
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
New Album On The Way From SAINT, Heaven Fell:
Album Release: September 25, 2022
Press Release / One of the very first bands to ever wave the banner of Christian heavy metal - for real! With metal spikes, black leather, razor sharp riffs, and penetrating vocals, SAINT mesmerized fans with three sure-fire Hall of Fame albums in the 80's. With 13 full-length albums, SAINT has only matured as musicians, and increased their fan base with one critically-acclaimed album after another. The band's 2022 release, Heaven Fell, finds SAINT at the pinnacle of their illustrious career. All killer and no filler, Heaven Fell compares to the band's historically great releases.
The CD includes a foil-stamped collector card (1st pressing only) to go with a deluxe 12-page booklet packaged in a jewel case. For fans of JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN, DIO, SAXON, and BRIDE!
Heaven Fell track listing:
1. ”Holier Than Thou”
2. “Creatures”
3. “Dance Of The Gods”
4. “Morning Star”
5. “Make Believe”
6. “Chosen One”
7. “Vengeance”
8. “Fallen Armor”
9. “The Exile Of Cain”
10. “Words Of Wisdom”
11. “Heaven Fell”
Heaven Fell vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/saint-heaven-fell-new-black-vinyl-2022-retroactive-records
Heaven Fell CD pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/saint-heaven-fell-new-cd-2022-retroactive-records
SAINT online: https://armorrecords.wixsite.com/saintsite/home & www.facebook.com/saintband
IMAGES OF EDEN Announces New EP, Weathered And Torn:
Press Release / IMAGES OF EDEN announces its sixth studio recording, entitled Weathered And Torn. This EP features five tracks and is by far the groups heaviest, most aggressive release to date. Weathered And Torn is slated for worldwide release later this summer on September 16, 2022. Pre-order or pre-save Weathered And Torn today and receive “Survivor’s Guilt” immediately as an instant gratification track.
Amazon Pre-Order Link: www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6CMNBTK?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_X49HPC3MVPJ62DY7ZVAE
Spotify/ Apple Music Pre-Order Link (Weathered And Torn): https://orcd.co/weatheredantorn
Spotify/ Apple Music Pre-Order Link ("Survivor's Guilt" instant grat track): https://orcd.co/survivorsguiltioe
Amazing artwork by Jan Yrlund!
IMAGES OF EDEN notes how Weathered And Torn was shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the band does its best to say positive, the music on the EP also touches on how many lives have been negatively impacted by this difficult time.
As noted by v ocalist and rhythm guitarist Gordon Tittsworth: “Even with a more aggressive delivery, Weathered And Torn still retains the signature IOE sound and message… elements of strength, perseverance and hope for better days are all still at the forefront, but this time there is also an added urgency that we must stay vigilant, bond together and lift each other through darker times. Now go and be somebody’s hero! Change a life! Begin today!”
Weathered And Torn track listing:
1. “Count To Zero”
2. “Survivor’s Guilt”
3. “Weathered And Torn”
4. “Coexistence”
5. “The Dead Me”
IMAGES OF EDEN online: https://imagesofeden.com/index2.htm & www.facebook.com/imagesofeden
CRY MERCY, Self-Titled Debut Re-Issue On Soundmass:
Album Release: Summer 2022
Press Release / CRY MERCY, straight forward heavy metal with groove influences. This Australian band was signed to Rowe Productions, the label owned by Steve Rowe (MORTIFICATION), and their one-and-only self-titled album released in 1995.
CRY MERCY’s self-titled debut was 10 heavy tracks full of great riffs and hooks. From mid-paced hard rockers (“What Am I Doing Wrong”), to funky riffs ala EXTREME (“D. A. M.”, “Girl’s No Good”), to straight up metal (“Time To Go”), all of their songs were written and executed with skill. The focus on, and variety of, guitar work keeps the whole album interesting and is complimented by a band who perform with power and conviction. Had this been released in the early 90’s, instead of in 1995 when death metal was all the rage, who knows where it might have taken them!
Soundmass is happy to be re-issuing Cry Mercy in 2022, making it readily available again. The audio has been meticulously re-mastered by Paul D. Clifford (PCP Studios) to bring it new life. Courtesy of Scott Waters (ULTIMATUM/NoLifeTilMetal), we also have a 12-page booklet with dual cover artwork, a photo/flyer collage, lyrics and comments from band members. If you missed out on this Aussie album in the 90’s, now is your time!
Shipping now!
Cry Mercy track listing:
1.“What Am I Doing Wrong”
2. “D.A.M. (Don’t Ask Me)”
3. “El Tiempo Gasto (Wasting My Time)”
4. “Girl’s No Good”
5. “Fine Kind Of Living”
6. “Time To Go”
7. “Why”
8 “Muy Ocupado Riendome (Too Busy Laughing)”
9. “The Fat Lady Has Sung”
10. “Shut Up And Listen”
Ordering Information: www.soundmass.com/product/cry-mercy-2
TRINITY Release Debut Album, Memories Of The Ancient Presence:
Album Release: Summer 2022
Press Release / TRINITY is a doom metal project from the Czech Republic that musically follows pioneers of the genre like CANDLEMASS and SOLITUDE AETURNUS, with a touch of gothic influence ala SAVIOUR MACHINE.
Band founder Bard, though having dabbled in various genres, kept returning to doom, finding that composing and playing doom metal was closest to his heart. However, realizing a recording for TRINITY became a labour of love that stemmed over a decade. In 2007 he began to collaborate with Judith and Mary, whom he had worked with before on other musical projects, and TRINITY was born. The following years were spent demoing songs, but the process then stalled for several years due to their involvement in other bands. This didn’t slow down until 2016, when they took the chance to resume work on TRINITY. 2016 to 2020 was spent improving the arrangements and lyrics, experimenting with sounds and re-recording until they were satisfied with the results. It wasn’t until the end of 2020 that work began on the final mix.
And, finally, in 2022, Soundmass has the pleasure of presenting you with the finished opus, Memories Of The Ancient Presence. As every doom aficionado knows, only 7 songs are more than enough to create a full-length album, clocking in at 45 minutes. The lyrics cover the questions of life and death that we encounter on a daily basis. However, the message of TRINITY is not despair, but hope in situations that seem hopeless- this is “doom and rebirth metal”.
Memories Of The Ancient Presence track listing:
1. “Memories Waking”
2. “The Ancient Presence”
3. “Sanctuary”
4. “Silent Dreams”
5. “Kyrie Eleison”
6. “The Fall (Jericho)”
7. “Into The Light”
Memories Of The Ancient Presence ordering information: www.soundmass.com/product/memories-of-the-ancient-presence
NEWS BRIEFS
* New single from REASSÖNICA, “Road Is Narrow” (new version): www.youtube.com/watch?v=HV54OnBcc4M
* STEPHEN PATRICK announces solo album re-releases (Facebook - August 21, 2022):
“Wanted to let you guys know that I’ve signed a recording contract to release Red Reign and Guns & Gold… It’s a limited release and I’m sorry to say that there will not be enough for everyone. As it stands right now, there will be 100 vinyl copies made of both albums, which will be numbered for authenticity, along with a thousand CDs. A limited number will be signed by the artist. There are things to come in 2024 that will bring value to the albums you are purchasing.You are never going to see these albums again.”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Roxx Records Announce Debut Album From NOT OF THIS WORD, Never Forget:
Album Release: September 2022
Press Release / Roxx Records is ready to unveil the next Dale Thompson fronted rock n roll project with the world, NOT OF THIS WORLD, and it’s a killer new project with some very well known guest appearances.
NOT OF THIS WORLD is a project featuring music written and performed by Clay Ashbrook, vocals and lyrics by Dale Thompson of BRIDE with a guest appearance on several tracks by Derek Sherinian of DREAM THEATER and Sons of APOLLO on keyboards and organs.
This project's genesis is in Clay Ashbrook's living room, where he composed and recorded all the music. Dale Thompson would then take the music and craft lyrics and melodies that fit perfectly within each song. This process started with 2 or 3 songs which expanded to a full albums worth over the last year and a half. This album cannot be defined by any one genre. You will find metal, rock, alternative, acoustic songs and ballads on this album. We are releasing this project in the hopes that people will enjoy the music and find something in the Christ-centered message of the lyrics that speaks to them in some way.
As we get ready to unveil this whole new project with you this September we are very excited to debut the premiere single entitled “Never Forget” today. We are also unveiling the magnificent new cover art for the album. “Never Forget” features Derek Sherinian of Dream Theater on organs and keys, sit back and enjoy this brand new track.
Stay tuned as we get ready to launch pre orders and release full details on this brand new album that will be coming your way this September via Roxx Records.
Roxx Records online: https://roxxrecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
REIGN OF GLORY Release Third Single From Debut Album All Will Bow, “When Love Came To Die”.
Album Release: August 12, 2022
REIGN OF GLORY is the brand new metal band featuring the return of Robyn Kyle Basauri (RED SEA, DIE HAPY, JAGUAR) on vocals after a long hiatus from his musical career. In addition we see the return of Roger Dale Martin (VENGEANCE RISING, ONCE DEAD, DIE HAPPY, TRIPLE ACE BAND) the monster on the bass, also the amazing Nick Layton(FIREWOLFE, Q5) crushing it on guitar and the one and only Jim Chaffin (THE CRUCIFIED, DELIVERANCE, THE BLAMED) pounding away on those drums.
The bands debut album All Will Bow features stunning new artwork with a beautiful cover illustration by David Edgar, and an elaborate cover design and layout by Scott Waters. The debut single “Welcome to Reality” was released in June and second “Forever And Ever” in July each to rave reviews: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghz4IRcpCX0 & www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWJONULO-tc
We are also excited to launch the bands brand new third single entitled “Love Came To Die” (video streaming above).
Album was released on Friday, August 12th on all streaming and digital sites, and also on CD. October 7th will see a very limited edition vinyl pressing released limited to only 200 copies on black vinyl. See the pre order items in the store for pre order incentives for the first 50 orders of each.
All Will Bow track listing:
1. “Forever And Ever”
2. “Welcome To Reality”
3. “Rise Of Aslan”
4. “Samson's Kryptonite”
5. “Love Came To Die”
6. “Call Down The Thunder”
7. “Last Daze”
8. “The Edge Of Night”
9. “1,000 Years”
10. “Writing On The Wall”
All Will Bow CD order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/reign-of-glory-all-will-bow-2022-cd-features-red-sea-vengeance-firewolfe-crucified-members
All Will Bow vinyl pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/reign-of-glory-all-will-bow-2022-lp-features-red-sea-vengeance-firewolfe-crucified-members
NEWS BRIEFS
* New single from BLOODGOOD vocalist Les Carlsen, “He’s Coming”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_9-x7E3ryA
* STRYPER will release its next album, The Final Battle, this October. Further details from vocalist and guitarist Michael Sweet from a recent online interview with My Global Mind: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHko0yVzpfk&t=1s
* Q.A.R., new project from Kerry Livgren (Facebook - August 12, 2022):
“Since I am currently nearing completion of the last two mixes, it’s time to announce my latest new album. The title is Q.A.R. (don’t ask). Featured vocalists are; John Elefante, Susan Shewbridge, Jake Livgren, Lynn Meredith, Warren Ham, Greg X. Volz, and Kerry Livgren. I sing background on several different tracks and yes, I actually do one of the lead vocals. I wouldn't subject anyone to my voice, but in this case, I think it actually works. There are a couple of guest musicians who I must mention – Steve Morse and Robby Steinhardt. Q.A.R. has been several years in the making. Projected release date - soon (really).”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
ALL FOR THE KING, Let There Be Light CD Release On Roxx Records:
Album Release: August 19, 2022
Press Release / ALL FOR THE KING was started in 2016 by Ricard Hulteke and Erik Tilling after a mutual longing to share their faith. The band has a yearning to preach the Gospel to a lost society that at times appears to run without a compass. Telling people that there is a God who cares for them in the midst of it all and wants to guide them and carry them through life’s journeys and storms.
Today, the band consists of Andreas Idaglöv (bass), Anders Köllerfors (drums), Ricard Hulteke (vocals) and Erik Tilling (guitar). They play a version of modern heavy progressive hard rock and metal with their roots strongly in the '70s. Critics around the world have compared Ricard's vocals to the legendary Glenn Hughes and Erik Tilling's guitar playing to riff master Tony Iommi of BLACK SABBATH.
In 2017, the band would release their debut album that was praised by both reviewers and listeners alike. Now in 2022 Roxx Records is set to bring you the bands sophomore release exclusively on CD as we work with ALL FOR THE KING to bring you Let There Be Light. According to the critics this follow up album is a real push forward and has given the band top reviews worldwide. The song "The Shelter" has already been placed on Spotify's top chart for Top Christian Rock and has allowed the band to gain many new listeners. Take a look at some of the early reviews.
”Listen! I would recommend this to anyone! I love the album! I think it’s absolutely great! They mixed up so many of my favorite eras of music. It’s one of those albums that the more you listen to it the better it will be!”
- Iridium Rock and Metal Review
”With their sophomore release, the band has taken their sound to a whole new level with overall more mature arrangements. Some of the tracks take on a technical Hard Rock element which I haven't seen in the Rock genre before. Yes, the band came out swinging with this latest release and have, without question, knocked the ball out of the park.”
- Jacob Folk (Christian Molten Metal)
Roxx Records is excited to bring you this brand new album from ALL FOR THE KING complete with 2 additional bonus tracks and even a third ‘hidden’ bonus track (But Don’t Tell The Band!) Just this year, the band recorded a brand new single that was just released separately from the new album, which featured a very special guest appearance from Ulf Christiansson of JERUSALEM. This amazing new track is included here as one of those special bonus tracks. In addition, this package features a beautiful layout and design by Scott Waters of NLTM Graphics. This beautiful Limited Edition CD Only Package will be released in a quantity of only 400 pieces. Pre Orders are live now and our official release date is August 19, 2022.
Check out the amazing first track ‘The Seventh Seal’: https://youtu.be/E23TSxPrzt0
Get ready as we are all set to bring you ALL FOR THE KING Let There Be Light!
Let There Be Light track listing:
1. “The Six-Winged Seraphim”
2. “Let There Be Light”
3. “I Am He”
4. “The way, Truth And Life”
5. “The Shelter”
6. “St. Patrick´s Prayer”
7. “Metal Gods”
8. “Let God Be God”
9. “Moneychangers”
10. “Blazing Fire”
11. “The Return Of The King”
12. “Song Of The Lamb” (bonus track)
13. “The Seventh Seal” (bonus track featuring Ulf Christiansson)
ALL FOR THE KING online: www.facebook.com/thebandallfortheking & www.allfortheking.se
Let There Be Light pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/all-for-the-king-let-there-be-light-2022-bradn-ne-christian-metal
TELESTAI, It Is Finished Re-issue On Roxx Records:
Album Release: August 19, 2022
Roxx Records is at it again, this year we have been working had to locate and find the many long lost Christian metal ‘Priests of the Underground’ so to speak. And we found a gem in the band TELESTAI.
TELESTAI was a four-piece heavy metal band of which all the members had (and still have) an active relationship with Jesus. All the members of TELESTAI received Jesus during the 1980’s at different times, in different places. The focus of their ministry was to play amazing metal music and reach the masses to tell them about Jesus, and they did it well!
The band would record only one demo in their time and play a lot of high profile rock shows with many well known artists, including HOLY SOLIDER, BARREN CROSS, SACRED WARRIOR, TRYTAN and many more. Luckily, they also captured an amazing live show that featured several songs that have never been released before. And we are happy to be restoring this amazing music and sharing the work and ministry of TELESTAI!
Roxx Records has completely re-mastered all of their tracks with the help of Rob Colwell of Bombworks Sound. In addition this beautiful package features completely brand new cover art, layout and design by Scott Waters of NLTM Graphics. Combined this beautiful Limited Edition CD Only Package will be released in a quantity of 300 pieces only. Pre Orders are live now and our official release date is August 19, 2022.
Check out the amazing first track ‘On The Line’: https://youtu.be/B5v1ovQB8Mk
Get ready as we are all set to bring you TELESTAI It Is Finished!
It Is Finished track listing:
1. “Tetelestai”
2. “On The Line”
3. “Why?”
4. “On The Line”
5. “The Way, The Truth And The Life”
6. “Before Me”
7. “Concert Intro”
8. “Alone” (Live)
9. “You Need Love” (Live)
10. “Bang, Bang” (Live)
11. “Remember” (Live)
12. “Eyes Of Fire” (Live)
It Is Finished pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/telestai-it-is-finished-cd-2022-remastered-classic-80s-christian-metal
NEWS BRIEFS
* New lyric video from DENY THE FALLEN, “If It Costs Me My Life”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-HUNfWXRDk
* New single from JOHN EVANS, Take Me To Your Leader (featuring Jenny Stokes on lead vocals): www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoCw1ruEANs&t=3s
John Evans & Jenny Stokes previously collaborated on four independently released albums under the moniker EVANS & STOKES: Beyond The Gates (2017), Valley Of The Kings (2018), Children Of God (2019) and Diary Of The Damned (2020)
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
MICHAEL BLOODGOOD, In Memoriam:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Bassist Michael Bloodgood of Christian hard rockers BLOODGOOD has died. According to his band mates, Michael passed on Friday, July 29 at 8:15 a.m. CDT.
More than five months ago, Bloodgood suffered a hemorrhagic stroke and subsequent brain bleed. He was airlifted to a hospital but never fully recovered.
"After a gallant fight that began with a severe hemorrhagic stroke in February 2022 he's gone home to be with our Heavenly Father," the band wrote in a social media post. "We'll cherish Michael's generous spirit, off-beat sense of humor, and musical soul. His devotion to the Lord and sharing of the Gospel through his ministry as a pastor and musician touched countless lives."
Michael is survived by his wife of 46 years, Marilyn, their three sons and two grandchildren.
In a May post on the GiveSendGo fundraising web site, it was reported that Michael had begun speaking and was communicating with doctors.
BLOODGOOD was touring at the time of Michael's stroke and had been working on new material.
Though Bloodgood didn't intend on forming a Christian heavy metal group in 1984, that's what the music industry labeled them. Unfortunately, its faith-based lyrics caused a stir in mainstream music, especially among hard rock bands who thought BLOODGOOD was too soft for its ear-piercing, rocking genre. In addition, Christians believed BLOODGOOD's music was the evil doings of the devil and banned its music and picketed its concerts in the cities it toured.
BLOODGOOD pushed all that adversity aside and became one of the top four Christian heavy metal bands by 1988. The band's later lineup included guitarist Oz Fox, a member of STRYPER, arguably the most popular Christian metal band in music history.
In 1986, the band released (its sophomore) record Detonation. They've also issued five other albums, including their latest, 2013's Dangerously Close. In 2010, BLOODGOOD was inducted into the Christian Music Hall Of Fame.
n his biography on the BLOODGOOD web site, Michael wrote: "My musical direction took quite a different route half-way through my senior year in high school when I gave my life to Christ. Suddenly, all I wanted to do was to share my new life and spread the Gospel using rock 'n roll music, so the following year I started my first Christian band, CROSSROADS. There was very little contemporary Christian rock in those days that we were aware of, so we began rearranging old hymns by putting in rock guitar hooks, doing cover songs like 'Jesus Is Just Alright'. We played anywhere and everywhere we could, including parks, Christian coffee bars around Southern California and making our way down to the Naval Training Center in San Diego to share our faith with the sailors-in-training. The first time we played in a church, some folks walked out before we began when they spotted my electric guitar, considering it a 'tool of the devil'!"
As noted by BLOODGOOD in a social media post:
“Dear, Friends - It's with a heavy heart we share that we lost our beloved, Michael Bloodgood at 8:15am Central this morning. After a gallant fight that began with a severe hemorrhagic stroke in February 2022, he's gone home to be with our Heavenly Father.
“We'll cherish Michael's generous spirit, off-beat sense of humor, and musical soul. His devotion to the Lord and sharing of the Gospel through his ministry as a pastor and musician touched countless lives. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this unimaginable time. He is survived by his cherished wife of 46 years, Marilyn, three sons, and two grandchildren.”
Medical Relief Fund: www.givesendgo.com/MichaelPBloodgood
"For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."
- 1 Timothy 4:8
New Single From LATTER REIGN, “Shine Your Light”:
Press Release / At the beginning of this year we brought you a very special, long lost release that made its debut to great critical acclaim, and all the reviews were stellar! That artist was LATTER REIGN and we were very excited to be able to bring you the bands debut album Live For The Day re-mastered and restored with all new artwork and design. Well that release has done so well, it led us to be able to work with LATTER REIGN once again!
Now we bring you the bands second full length album, aptly titled II. II is a collection of songs that the band originally wrote and performed back in the day. These songs were just taking shape, and these brand-new songs were played live, but never officially released...until now. LATTER REIGN shared stages with many bands including FEAR NOT, GUARDIAN, TOURNIQUET, SIN DIZZY, BAREN CROSS, RANSOM and BROKEN SILENCE playing tracks from their debut release and these tracks you will hear right here from II.
Many of the tracks were never finished completely alas they rekindled their creative juices to finish recording and releasing them. With the band back together, they managed to touch up, re-record and add to these tracks to get you what you will hear today on what is essentially a brand new album. If you want the whole story, you’ll have to order the new CD, as the whole story is detailed and all in there with this CD package!
For now lets take a look at the second single (above) entitled “Shine Your Light” from the upcoming LATTER REIGN II album, and for this special video the band unearthed some previously unseen footage.
This beautiful limited edition CD package was re-mastered by Rob Colwell (Bombworks Sound) the album cover, layout and design were done by Luke Easter (Tourniquet). This new album is officially arriving with a street date of July 29th, 2022.
II track listing:
1. “Latter Reign”
2. “Desire”
3. “Dreams”
4. “Shine Your Light”
5. “Radio Paradise”
6. “Rotten Johnny”
7. “Crazy World”
8. “Day By Day”
9. “Hardened Heart”
10. “Won't Go Down”
11. “Why”
Visit us at www.RoxxRecords.com for full info and pre order information that is live now at a special price until release date!
BRIDE, Kinetic Faith Demos & Snakes In The Playground Demos On Retroactive Records:
These are songs originally recorded for the Kinetic Faith album (1991). The tracks may or may not have been used, or songs might have different lyrics, choruses, etc. These are not the finished products that ended up on the classic album, but these demo tracks have all the magic and wonder of the finished product. Now you get these re-mastered treasures all on one album packaged in a jewel case and an 8-page booklet with liner notes from Troy Thompson (guitarist)!
Kinetic Faith Demos track listing:
1. “Kiss The Train”
2. “Everybody Knows My Name”
3. “Hired Gun”
Re-recorded for Kinetic Faith
4. “Could You Live In My World”
5. “Ever Fallen In Love”
6. “Think About Our Future”
Recorded for consideration on Kinetic Faith
7. “Young Love”
8. “Sweet Louise”
Re-recorded for Kinetic Faith
9. “Fine Line”
10. “Echoes Of Mercy”
11. “I Miss Dancing With You”
Recorded for consideration on Kinetic Faith
Kinetic Faith Demos order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/bride-kinetic-faith-demos-bonus-new-cd-2022-retroactive
These are songs that were originally recorded for the Snakes In The Playground album (1992). The tracks may or may not have been used, or songs might have different lyrics, choruses, etc. These are not the finished products that ended up on the classic album, but these demo tracks have all the magic and wonder of the finished product. Now you get these re-mastered treasures all on one album packaged in a jewel case and an 8-page booklet with liner notes from Troy Thompson (guitarist)!
Snakes In The Playground Demos track listing:
1. “Would You Die”
2. Rattlesnake
3. “Somethings Never Change”
These demo tracks all made it onto Snakes In The Playground.
4. “Same Ol’ Sinner”
A demo version of the song that ended up on the End Of The Age compilation.
5. “I Miss The Rain”
This song made it onto Snakes In The Playground. The version presented here is quite a bit different from the one on Snakes. We eliminated the keyboards & completely reworked the chorus to put it in a major key.
6. “Beast”
This track was later used on Scarecrow Messiah.
7. “Scarecrow”
This song ended up being the title track for Scarecrow Messiah.
8. “Pyramid”
9. “Place”
These were later re-recorded for Scarecrow Messiah.
10. “We Don’t Need No Colour Code”
Recorded for a Steve Taylor tribute album.
11. “Sleepy Southern Town”
This was just a fun song to write and play but it never made it onto Snakes In The Playground or Scarecrow Messiah.
12. “I Miss The Rain”
Alternate Version
Snakes In The Playground Demos order: https://boonesoverstock.com/products/bride-snakes-in-the-playground-demo-bonus-new-cd-2022-retroactive
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
FLAME IMPERISHABLE Announce New Album, Glory And Ruin:
Album Release: August 19, 2022
FLAME IMPERISHABLE is the husband-and-wife duo of Jason Lee Greenberg and Jennifer Michelle Greenberg. Based out of Houston, Texas, their sound can best be described as power-progressive metal, with a theatrical story-telling flair. With a soaring and layered female operatic delivery, Jennifer’s voice has been compared to Kate Bush and Tori Amos. They draw much inspiration from the likes of BLIND GUARDIAN, JUDICATOR, FALCONER, OPETH, NIGHTWISH, EPICA J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion, Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archives series, and Nintendo music (Zelda: Breath of the Wild). Additional elements heard on the album include classical guitar, baritone saxophones, tasteful orchestral accompaniment by classical composer Gregg Rossetti, PHD, and even chip tunes meant to hearken back to the 80s of vintage video games.
As quoted by Jason Lee Greenberg:
“I’m always writing songs, so building out our own home studio made practical sense. Then, in 2020, during the first COVID lockdown, I posted on social media asking if anyone was interested in collaborating on a few songs. To my surprise, Gregg Rossetti, the main composer of one of my favorite bands, SUSPYRE, responded. Gregg has been amazing to work with. His expertise of composition, orchestration, and harmonization added a dimension to many of the songs that I just love.
“In the time between our last album, Orisonata (almost 10 years ago!), I fully devoted myself to studying and pursuing classical guitar. In getting back to writing metal music, it was a blast incorporating newly learned classical composition techniques, approaches to counterpoint melody, as well as baroque and romantic styled themes into heavy metal.
“Our sound is theatrical but I think also catchy. I draw on influences from fantasy power metal, progressive metal, death and black metal, and jazz and classical. I use those elements as building blocks to craft music that’s complex, compelling, interesting, and fun to listen to. I’d like to think fans of BLIND GUARDIAN, OPETH, EPICA, NIGHTWISH and GHOST will enjoy our new album.
“There are no specific rules I lock myself into while writing a song. As a nerdy fan of fantasy literature and video games, those topics took center stage in our lyrics. We have songs inspired by Tolkien’s The Silmarillion and The Hobbit; The Legend of Zelda, Breath of the Wild; Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings novel; as well as some completely original fantasy tales. In fact, Jennifer has written short stories to flesh out the back story and lore behind a few of the songs, “Frozen In Time” and “The Scarlet Gale”.
Songs on the album are diverse yet maintain our hallmark sound. They include a ballad that contrasts nicely with our more driving and heavy songs. BPMs range from 90, 125, 145, 165, etc., so as you close out the final track, we hope you feel like you’ve been on an interesting journey, or just finished a really good book.
All songs written and performed by Jason Lee Greenberg Lyrics by Jason Lee Greenberg and Jennifer Michelle Greenberg. Engineered by Gregg Rossetti / Mastered by Alan Douches at West West Side Music
Musicians:
Jason Lee Greenberg - Guitars, Drums & Bass
Jennifer Greenberg - Lead Vocals
Guest Musicians:
Gregg Rossetti (SUSPYRE) - Saxophone, Keyboards, Orchestrations, Bass Guitar (on Shrine of Resurrection)
Drew Creel (MASQUED - Guitar solos on Reign of Fire and The Herald’s Approach
John Yelland (JUDICATOR, DIRE PERIL, PRINCIPIUM) - Male vocals on “The Scarlet Gale Pt. 2 - The Descent”
Valerie Hartzell - Classical guitar on “The Scarlet Gale Pt. 3 - Reflection”
Glory And Ruin track listing:
1. “Oblivion - The Halls Of Waiting”
2. “Frozen In Time”
3. “Slavebranded”
4. “Shrine Of Resurrection”
5. Bregalad’s Lament”
6. “The Herald’s Approach”
7. “Reign Of Fire”
8. “Scarlet Gate - Pt 2 - The Descent”
9. “Scarlet Gate - Pt 3 - Reflection”
FLAME IMPERISHABLE online: www.facebook.com/FlameImperishableBand & https://flameimperishable.bandcamp.com
STRYPER Unveil New Single, “See No Evil, Hear No Evil”:
Courtesy of www.blabbermouth.net:
Openly Christian rockers STRYPER have released a new single, "See No Evil, Hear No Evil". The song will appear on their upcoming studio album, which is due later this year via Frontiers Music Srl. The follow-up to 2020's Even The Devil Believes was produced by guitarist/vocalist Michael Sweet and was once again recorded at SpiritHouse Recording Studios in Northampton, Massachusetts.
Sweet stated about the track: "See No Evil, Hear No Evil” was, believe it or not, inspired by the health issues that Oz (Fox, guitar) and I have been faced with. Despite our limitations, we were able to deliver an album that is powerful and relevant and “See No Evil, Hear No Evil' is the perfect track to showcase that. We could not be more excited about this album! The best is yet to come."
"See No Evil, Hear No Evil" follows last month's successful release of another new single, "Rise To The Call", which has been receiving praise from press and fans alike in the buildup to STRYPER's new LP. The effort firmly continues the trend established over the band's last few albums, with STRYPER growing heavier while also maintaining their trademark melodies, virtuoso guitar playing, and air-tight rhythms.
When "Rise To The Call" was first released, Sweet commented: "Although we have faced many obstacles over the past few years, we were somehow able to rise above everything that stood in our way and deliver (what I believe to be) our strongest release to date. "Our new album encompasses everything that defines who we are: faith, guitar power, melodies and harmonies, consistency and longevity.
"We still have so much left to say musically and lyrically and this album showcases that. We couldn't do it without the fans worldwide. Those who have stood by us through it all, for almost 40 years! We're so honored and blessed to be able to release our 14th studio album and to be making the best music of our lives/careers. Against all odds, we're still here."
This past January, the 59-year-old Sweet, who recently underwent surgery for a re-detached retina, said that he was "more concerned with the state of our world" as he continued to work on lyrics for the band's upcoming 14th studio LP. At the time, he wrote on his social media: "I'll be honest. I'm a little nervous about the new album. Not the music itself but more so the process.
"We're obviously not operating at 100%," he continued. "Oz (Fox, STRYPER guitarist) lost the hearing in his left ear and I've lost my vision (hopefully and prayerfully short term) in my right eye. We'll be working this way and it's certainly a first. How will it affect our performances? Not much. It most likely will take a little longer to get what we want but maybe not. We'll have to see how that goes.
"I'm also at that place where I'm more concerned with the state of our world. I'm concerned about what I see on the news. Is it just me or does it feel as though we're in a much darker place these days? Our country, our world. Maybe I'm wrong but it feels as though darkness is overtaking the light. People seem much colder and more concerned about themselves than they do others. There are some good people out there but times are definitely changing sadly.
"So, as I've been facedown I've been writing lyrics and although there are some straight up songs about love, there's more of a take on the state of this world with lyrics that definitely address that," Sweet added. "Maybe, just maybe this album will shed a little light into and onto some dark areas. That's always my goal and always my desire. To help, not to hurt. To heal, not to damage. This is my intention with every song I write."
In December, Sweet stated about the musical direction of STRYPER's new material: "Lots of riffs, grooves, up tempo and mid tempo and everything has a great feel to it. I've only sent music to the guys so they haven't heard any melodies yet but the melodies are strong and powerful.
"It's always a little strange talking about your own music but I can say that I'm really excited about the direction of this album! I know you will be too. We've tuned down to D so the tuning makes it all sound a little fatter and heavier. There are a few songs with the low E string dropped down another step (C) so those songs have a bit more meat and potato's as well;-) There are a few ballads but they're not your typical 'piano' or 'acoustic' ballads. They're heavy as well and definitely guitar driven.
"Even though there have been obstacles along the way, this album really has shaped up to be an amazing piece of work," Sweet added. "We're a long way out but man, I can't wait for all of you to hear this!!"
In March 2021, Fox underwent the first of his brain surgeries to treat one of the tumors that were found in his head more nearly four years ago. That same month, STRYPER and Frontiers Music Srl announced that they have extended their working relationship for the release of more new studio albums together.
STRYPER and Frontiers originally joined forces in 2013 for the release of Second Coming, an album comprised of new recordings of 14 songs from the band's early years, as well as two brand new songs. What followed has been a string of critically and commercially successful studio albums, including No More Hell To Pay (2013),Fallen (2015),God Damn Evil (2018) and Even The Devil Believes (2020). Additionally, a live album and long-form video, Live At The Whisky (2014) was made available. Every one of the albums released on Frontiers in the past nine years has successfully charted on the Billboard 200 chart and topped the Hot 100, Rock, Hard Rock, Current and Christian Music album charts.
STRYPER is one of the most well-known metal bands to emerge from the fertile '80s metal renaissance over three decades ago. The band first landed on the global scene in 1984 and is responsible for such classic '80s metal albums as Soldiers Under Command, To Hell With The Devil and In God We Trust and hit singles/videos such as "Calling On You", "Free" and "Honestly". To date, the band has sold upwards of eight million records worldwide and is a Dove Award winner and Grammy nominee. STRYPER was also the first band to have two songs in MTV's "Top 10 Video Countdown" simultaneously.
After being on a hiatus for much of the '90s, STRYPER returned stronger than ever in the early 21st century. Musically, the band has progressed and grown their fan base steadily and continuously, being one of the few "classic" metal bands of the '80s that managed to keep themselves front and center thanks to the consistency of their musical output.
Michael is joined in STRYPER by his brother Robert Sweet (drums),Oz Fox (guitar) and Perry Richardson (bass).
FRONTIERS SRL online: www.frontiers.it/index.php & www.facebook.com/frontiersmusicsrl
STRYPER online: www.stryper.com & www.facebook.com/Stryper
NEWS BRIEFS
* Update from Michael Sweet regarding upcoming SWEET & LYNCH album (Facebook - July 21, 2022):
“I’m happy to say that the Sweet & Lynch vocals are complete! I tracked them over the past few weeks and turned them in yesterday. I have to say that this album is really coming together and I’m excited about this one.
“Every song is different and unique yet it’s got that “S&L” vibe. Can’t wait for you all to hear it! Some very talented people working so hard to make this one killer.”
FEATURED REVIEWS
DELIVERANCE - Camelot In Smithereens Redux
It had to happen. Deliverance re-recorded its 1995 Intense Records seventh full-length album Camelot In Smithereens and therefore brought it up to current production standards, realizing in the process the albums original intention and vision. Read Full Review >>
JOHN ELEFANTE - The Amazing Grace
April of 2022 finds Elefante returning with his fifth solo album The Amazing Grace, sixth if you count the 2010 re-release to III under the John Elefante heading and new title Revolution Of Mind. Read Full Review >>
IRON 501 - Night Witches
Sophomore Iron 501 album Night Witches is more about style than function. Read Full Review >>
REZ BAND - Hostage (Girder Music re-issue)
I rate 1984 Sparrow Records sixth Rez Band (a.k.a., Resurrection Band, REZ) album Hostage above Light Records 1982 predecessor D.M.Z. and below 1985 follow up effort Between Heaven ‘N Hell (also Sparrow). Read Full Review >>
SEVENONESELF - The Treasure Of The Crucible
The Treasure Of The Crucible, the May of 2022 debut full length of the SevenOneSelf ‘one man band’ project of multi-instrumentalist Barry Peters, offers solid production and musical variety in the form of hard rock, classic rock and progressive rock. Read Full Review >>
SILOAM - Dying To Live (Retroactive Records re-issue)
There’s a sense of familiarity when listening to Dying To Live, the 1995 Ocean Entertainment sophomore album from Siloam. Read Full Review >>
THEE FINAL CHAPTRE - So Let It Be Done
Divebomb Records March of 2022 debut full length So Let It Be Done from Thee Final Chaptre fully embraces the ‘power’ proposition of power metal. Read Full Review >>
WE ARE RESOLUTE - Only Human
Spring of 2022 Roxx Records sophomore album Only Human from We Are Resolute has some positives, including a compelling roster of vocalists - Dale Thompson (Bride), Chaz Bond (Biogenesis) & Benjamin Birdsong (The Birdsongs) - and songwriting when at its best is on par with the 80% Angelic Warlord reviewed 2020 debut full length Shine The Light (also Roxx). Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Roxx Records Announce Debut Album From REIGN OF GLORY, All Will Bow:
Album Release: August 12, 2022
REIGN OF GLORY is the brand new metal band featuring the return of Robyn Kyle Basauri (RED SEA, DIE HAPY, JAGUAR) on vocals after a long hiatus from his musical career. In addition we see the return of Roger Dale Martin (VENGEANCE RISING, ONCE DEAD, DIE HAPPY, TRIPLE ACE BAND) the monster on the bass, also the amazing Nick Layton(FIREWOLFE, Q5) crushing it on guitar and the one and only Jim Chaffin (THE CRUCIFIED, DELIVERANCE, THE BLAMED) pounding away on those drums.
The bands debut album All Will Bow features stunning new artwork with a beautiful cover illustration by David Edgar, and an elaborate cover design and layout by Scott Waters. The debut single “Welcome to Reality” was released in June to rave reviews, and with this full release announcement today we are also excited to launch the bands brand new second single entitled “Forever and Ever” (lyric video streaming above).
A video to “Welcome To Reality” can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/ghz4IRcpCX0
Pre orders are live NOW in conjunction with a release date planned for August 12th on all streaming and digital sites, and also on CD. October 7th will see a very limited edition vinyl pressing released limited to only 200 copies on black vinyl. See the pre order items in the store for pre order incentives for the first 50 orders of each.
All Will Bow track listing:
1. “Forever And Ever”
2. “Welcome To Reality”
3. “Rise Of Aslan”
4. “Samson's Kryptonite”
5. “Love Came To Die”
6. “Call Down The Thunder”
7. “Last Daze”
8. “The Edge Of Night”
9. “1,000 Years”
10. “Writing On The Wall”
All Will Bow CD pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/reign-of-glory-all-will-bow-2022-cd-features-red-sea-vengeance-firewolfe-crucified-members
All Will Bow vinyl pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/2019-releases/products/reign-of-glory-all-will-bow-2022-lp-features-red-sea-vengeance-firewolfe-crucified-members
REIGN OF GLORY online: www.facebook.com/Reign-Of-Glory-100801572602941
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
LEVITICUS, Stå Och Titta På 40th Anniversary CD Re-issue On Roxx Records:
Album Release: July 29, 2022
Christian rock and metal fans can reflect back to the humble beginnings of the Christian rock and metal scene and thank LEVITICUS for being one of the artists in the forefront leading the charge for the music we all know and love today.
The year was 1982 in Sweden and this then fledgling band would record 4 tracks that would lead to their first ever release and on their way to Christian rock history books. That release was titled in Swedish Stå Och Titta På, which translated to English means ‘Stand & Watch. These 4 tracks were also recorded in their native Swedish language and would be released in a very limited amount on a 4 track 12" Maxi 45rpm EP in a very limited quantity and it is practically impossible to find one today.
Well, Roxx Records wanted to celebrate 40 years of LEVITICUS with this special EP and will be making this into a ONE TIME PRESSING with a very limited pressing of ONLY 300 COPIES on CD. It is the first time it is being released on ANY format other than the original 12" Maxi EP. This will be released completely in Swedish, the original recordings being re-mastered, all lyrics and credits completely in Swedish.
Stå Och Titta På track listing:
1. “Sta Och Titta Pa”
2. “Foij Mig”
3. “Leva Som Han Lar”
4. “Min Mastare”
Stå Och Titta På pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/leviticus-sta-och-titta-pa-stand-watch-very-first-recordings-limited-press
DYNASTY Re-issues On Girder Music:
DYNASTY is well known power metal band from Brazil; however, in American and throughout the rest of the world they have flown under the radar as no product ever found its way to the states, but, we are about to change that. Let me first say to you, anyone that knows this band knows the elite level of skill that these 5 guys possess. When you listen to the first song on their first album from 2004 you'll wonder how you missed these guys... and it only gets better after that. Warriors Of The King is a superb power metal album on par with ROB ROCK, THEOCRACY, ANGRA and other power metal greats. Technical guitar is in abundance and YES, all the lyrics and vocals all in English. Trust me when I say that these guys are worthy of the coveted Girder treatment. For the first time ever, their 3 full length albums will be made available in American. However we also included bonus tracks are all 3 albums. The first album Motus Perpetuus, (2004) which simply means Perpetual Motion includes the bands Following The Sign 3 Song EP from 2001. Step By Step (2017) contains 15 songs, 5 of which are bonus track as originally released in Brazil and Warriors Of The King (2010) includes an amazing cover of HOLY SOLDIER’s “See No Evil and 4 bonus tracks, one of which features Josh Kramer of Christian Metal band SAINT.
Motus Perpetuus is the first full-length album from Brazilian power metal band DYNASTY, which was originally released in 2004. The 2022 reissue on Girder Records was given the coveted Girder treatment and contains 3 bonus tracks from the Following The Sign EP and it is the first time any of their albums has been released outside of Brazil. It's also been completely remastered and comes in a Jewel Case. All words are in English and includes lyrics. For fans of ANGRA, KAMELOT and HAMMERFALL.
Motus Perpetuus track listing: “Not In Vain”, “Eternity”, “Against All Evil”, “The Word That Remains”, “Mitzvoth”, “Following The Sign”, “Another Chance”, “Salvation (Overcome)”, “Just For Loving You”, “The Time Is Over”, “Goldenland”
Following The Sign track listing: “The Word That Remains”, “Still Unknown”, “Overcome (Salvation)”
Motus Perpetuus pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/dynasty-motus-perpetuus-cd
Warriors Of The King is the band’s second full-length and until now only available in Brazil. The album has been completely re-mastered and includes 4 bonus tracks, one with Josh Kramer of SAINT on vocals. If you love power metal bands like HAMMERFALL, BLIND GUARDIAN, ANGRA and KAMELOT, you are going to love this elite power metal album. Songs like “Warrior Of The King” are fast and furious with ripping thunderous guitar and grooves that will wet your appetite for more. However make no mistake about it, this is full of hope, honor, and glory with songs like “Warriors Of The King” & “Holy Fire”. However, one of their better moments can be found on the song “Brighter Than The Sun”. It's got all the makings of an epic metal song.
Warriors Of The King track listing: “Faith”, “Life Is A Miracle”, “Warriors Of The King”, “Holy Fire”, “King Of Kings”, “Brighter Than The Sun”, “Master Of Disguise”, “See No Evil”, “Bloody War”, “Freak Show”, “The Honor” (bonus track), “King Of Kings” (bonus track featuring Josh Kramer), “Open Your Eyes” (bonus track), “The Mud” (bonus track)
Warriors Of The King pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/products/dynasty-warriors-of-the-king-cd-4-bonus-tracks-1?variant=39751218430055
Step By Step is the third full-length album from Brazilian power metal band DYNASTY, which was originally released in 2017 on Marquee Records. The 2022 reissue on Girder Records is the first time the album has been released outside of Brazil. The album is a full-throttle, power metal assault that also includes 5 bonus tracks. If you love power metal bands like ANGRA, KAMELOT and HAMMERFALL this is a must have. Completely re-mastered and reloaded with the Girder treatment, complete with trading card.
Step By Step track listing: “Somnum Exterreri Solebat”, “Nightmare”, “Inside My Heart”, “Metal Pulse Radio”, “Step by Step”, “I’ll Be with You”, “Machado de Guerra”, “Sad Faces”, “Bad Politicians”, “Evil’s Puppets”, “Goldenland’s Battle/Goldenland” (bonus track), “Dentro de Mi Corazón” (bonus track), “Hacha de Guerra” (bonus track), “Caminar” (bonus track), “Rex Militibus /Warriors Of The King” (bonus track)
Step By Step pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/products/dynasty-step-by-step-cd-5-bonus-tracks-ltd-collectors-card-legends-of-rock?variant=39751228293223
ARTIST COMMENTARY
MICHAEL SWEET in regards to advice he would give up and coming musicians or to musicians who have been working so hard to “break out” for years (Facebook - July 5, 2022):
1. Create your own sound, your own voice, your own style. Don’t follow other trends. Be original. Be a leader.
2. Write your own songs and develop your writing skills. The song is the foundation of any artist/band. It’s more valuable than having the “chops”.
3. Work with like minded people and other musicians who have the same goals and who are smart enough to achieve those goals.
4. Don’t compromise anything. Gear, songs, performance, looks, nothing. Always strive for the best in all that you do.
5. Work harder than anyone else. While they’re sleeping, you’re writing, recording and performing. Use every minute to achieve your goals.
6. Study business. Don’t let labels (or others) rob you and take what’s rightfully yours. Fight for your efforts and hard work. You’ve earned it. You’re the one who worked so hard to achieve the success. Be very smart and hire a great attorney.
7. Work with honor and integrity. Stay humble. No matter how high you get, we all reach the bottom at some point as well. It’s an up and down ride. When you’re up, be kind. When your down, be kind. God will bless and honor that. And last but not least, be patient and know that it will happen when you least expect it. Never give up on yourself or your dreams. Stay focused and keep moving. Don’t get discouraged no matter how many “no’s” you hear. Someday there will be a resounding “YES!”
New TRUE STRENGTH Interview Online:
Angelic Warlord had the recent opportunity to interview TRUE STRENGTH founding member and rhythm guitarist/songwriter Ryan “The Archangel” Darnell, who goes into detail in regards to the groups recently released (June 17, 2022) Roxx Records fifth album The House, The Holy, The Third, the concept behind the album and challenges faced during the recording process. Following is an expert:
I understand that The House, The Holy, The Third is also a concept album. What is the concept in question?
Absolutely, the album concept is the Book of Ezekiel from the Old Testament. The album covers the entire book from beginning to end and contains lyrics derived from actual Scripture. I wanted to capture the entire essence of the Book of Ezekiel while connecting it typologically to the New Testament.
Read full interview: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
LATTER REIGN To Release Second Album II On Roxx Records:
Album Release: July, 29, 2022
Press Release / At the beginning of this year we brought you a very special, long lost release that made its debut to great critical acclaim, and all the reviews were stellar! That artist was LATTER REIGN and we were very excited to be able to bring you the bands debut album Live For The Day re-mastered and restored with all new artwork and design. Well that release has done so well, it led us to be able to work with LATTER REIGN once again!
Now we bring you the bands second full length album, aptly titled II. II is a collection of songs that the band originally wrote and performed back in the day. These songs were just taking shape, and these brand-new songs were played live, but never officially released...until now. LATTER REIGN shared stages with many bands including FEAR NOT, GUARDIAN, TOURNIQUET, SIN DIZZY, BAREN CROSS, RANSOM and BROKEN SILENCE playing tracks from their debut release and these tracks you will hear right here from II.
Many of the tracks were never finished completely alas they rekindled their creative juices to finish recording and releasing them. With the band back together, they managed to touch up, re-record and add to these tracks to get you what you will hear today on what is essentially a brand new album. If you want the whole story, you’ll have to order the new CD, as the whole story is detailed and all in there with this CD package!
For now lets take a look at the first single (above), which is the self-titled track “Latter Reign” from the upcoming LATTER REIGN II album, and for this special video the band unearthed some previously unseen footage.
This beautiful limited edition CD package was re-mastered by Rob Colwell (Bombworks Sound) the album cover, layout and design were done by Luke Easter (Tourniquet). This new album is officially arriving with a street date of July 29th, 2022.
Visit us at www.RoxxRecords.com for full info and pre order information that is live now at a special price until release date!
DENY THE FALLEN Update From Guitarist Jonathan Johnson (Facebook - June 29, 2022):
"So I've been praying about how, when and in what form to release the new Deny The Fallen album. For those of you who don't know we fund everything out of our own pocket for all of our recording and production expenses, videos, art and graphic design as well as marketing and manufacturing. We have to cover things like airline flights to get us together to record and a lot of miscellaneous expenses. Honestly we never recoup what we put into it financially.
“We obviously aren't in music for that reason. We are in this to give, not to get! This is a ministry for us. So much so that we give all of our music away for free digitally to ANYONE who wants it! Digital music sales would be the biggest form of income for the band because it doesn't have the costs associated with manufacturing cd's and or vinyl. We felt God wanted us to make all our songs available to everyone. No one should not have access to the message in our music because they don't have the money to buy it.
“That's just our conviction. But lack of personal resources definitely limits our reach and ability to market the music to the masses. As I've prayed and pondered this it's really been put on my heart to ask people to join with us in this ministry to sponsor parts of the process. I believe the Lord will put it on the heart of a handful of people to join with us to get this powerful music and message out to more people and with a high quality spirit of excellence. I guess sometimes "you have not because you ask not". So I'm asking. If the Lord puts it on your heart to help us by sponsoring different parts of getting this new music out to the masses.
“If our music has meant something to you and blessed you in some way, get ahold of me. Rey Parra and I have been proudly proclaiming the Gospel for over 30 years. God willing we will be doing it for a long time to come. But one thing we won't do is back down or water down the message. We will be bold and stand against things like abortion (Murder Machine). We will strive to inspire believers to be bold and courageous for Jesus (Hands For War)! So here are some current areas where we are making it available to sponsor.
“Album Cover Art: we are releasing this new album in 3 ep's. Each needing it's own cover art. If you would like to sponsor 1 or all 3 album covers that would be a huge blessing. The 1st ep will be titled "ECHO CHAMBER". The artist is working on this cover already. Anyone that sponsor's cover art we will honor you inside the album liner notes as the sponsor of the cover art.
“Music Video: We also want to make a high quality music video and use it to run a marketing campaign for the album. Most likely in the form of a paid YouTube ad campaign which gets pricey fast. We are hoping it will direct thousands of people to download the album for free!
“These are just a couple things, of many that are needs. I was very hesitant to make this post. But I really felt compelled to. If you are someone who feels moved to help us, reach out to me or comment. Thanks for reading this long post! God bless all of you!”
DENY THE FALLEN online: www.facebook.com/DenyTheFallenBand
FEAR NOT Release New Single, “American Prayer”:
Press Release / 2022 is set to be the return of what was one of Christian rock’s greatest acts of the nineties. This band made their public debut actually being known as LOVE LIFE, releasing an album titled Goodbye Lady Jane on Blonde Vinyl in 1991. As the band began to progress they caught the ears of well-established producers John & Dino Elefante and a new journey was about to begin. Working with the famed producers the band would change their name to FEAR NOT and release their self titled album in 1993 upon the world via Pakaderm Records. The album would garner great reviews and praise from the media and the band would begin playing shows across the US. Unfortunately, as it happens all too often, life got in the way and the band would never actually make it to release a sophomore effort, ultimately disbanding.
Fast forward to 2017 and indie label Roxx Records would search the band out and ultimately start to work on a complete redesign and rerelease of that amazing debut album. In 2017, working in conjunction with the band, that debut album would be beautifully r-emastered with enhanced artwork and reissued in a limited edition CD format and for the first time ever on limited edition vinyl. As a result, of this, those four original members of FEAR NOT would embark on a brand new journey and rekindle that band relationship and start to work on brand new music for the first time in almost 35 years. Added to the fold would be an additional vocalist working with the band by the name of Eddie Green, a seasoned touring vocalist, who previously fronted the metal band EVEN THE DOGS.
Now as a 5 piece, the band would record and release their debut music together as a beautiful new EP titled For The Wounded Heart. Five brand new tunes for the world to enjoy as this band was back and just beginning a new journey of life, music and ministry for a world that much needs it. For The Wounded Heart would get many great reviews and accolades which would spark that fire amongst the band and even get them out into the world to play shows again as a 5 piece.
It's been over 3 years since that first EP, the world had pretty much come to a stop as we dealt with a worldwide pandemic. While that worldwide downtime was going on, these guys were dealing with so much adversity in their personal lives, illness, death of loved ones, and so much more we didn’t think anything more would come to fruition. However, all along that troublesome pathway, it inspired the band, and they continued writing new music, recording new music and slowly building a brand new full-length release to share with this world. And now 2022 will finally see the release of the much anticipated new full-length album from the legendary FEAR NOT.
FEAR NOT are set to embark on a new musical journey with the release of their sophomore full length album entitled Fields Of Sorrow. Fields Of Sorrow takes the listener on a heavy and heartfelt journey with the band as they prepare to release this full length album of all new music with meaning. Tracks that tackle many of the issues we face and deal with today, with the addition of some heavy and emotional music as your soundtrack, Fields Of Sorrow will definitely be on repeat play for many of us this year as we continue to navigate life through these troubled times.
Get ready as we prepare to release the brand new album from FEAR NOT!
Today we unveil the brand new cover art and a world premiere video for the third single, “American Prayer”, from the new album. On the heels of the debut single “Struggle”, we are very excited to bring you the brand new single which also happens to be the title track of the new album Fields Of Sorrow we hope you not only enjoy it but request it to be played wherever you listen or stream your music. The new single is on sale now digitally at all your favorite platforms, and has been serviced to radio around the world.
Fields Of Sorrow features stunning new artwork from Scott Waters of NoLifeTilMetal Graphics and is scheduled to be released on July 8th, 2022 on CD and via all digital platforms. In addition, on September 17th, 2022 a limited edition black vinyl version will be released and limited to only 200 copies worldwide. The album also features stunning new artwork from Scott Waters of NoLifeTilMetal Graphics.
Throughout the month of June, FEAR NOT will also be the featured artist on Heavens Metal Streaming Radio where you will be able to hear several new tracks from the forthcoming album.
https://player.live365.com/a00356
Also, be sure to catch FEAR NOT on one of their scheduled live shows this Summer and most of all get ready to hear some brand spanking new tunes from FEAR NOT!
Fields Of Sorrow track listing:
1. “Riptide”
2. “Voluntary Madness”
3. “Fields Of Sorrow”
4. “Lay It All Down”
5. “Join Together”
6. “Black Soul Sunshine”
7. “Beautifully Broken”
8. “Struggle”
9. “Into The Grave”
10. “American Prayer”
11. “God’s Country” (bonus track)
12. “Carry Me “Reprise” (bonus track)
For Full Release details visit us at: www.RoxxRecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
FEAR NOT online: www.facebook.com/FearNotRoxx
