Here are some of my Metal thoughts for Monday, February 12th, 2024. Enjoy:
Fuck the Grammy Awards.
Fuck off Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Seriously.
Without bassist Bob Daisley, Ozzy Osbourne wouldn’t have his first 2 solo albums written.
Kudos to the great Kerry King for staying true to his brand of Metal with his forthcoming studio album ‘From Hell I Rise’. The naysayers can go listen to their ABBA 8-tracks.
I’m as excited for the next Mötley Crüe studio album as I am to watch my dog take a shit.
The KISS Avatars interest me as much as watching a slug eating a tomato plant.
Stay true to Metal. Thank you for reading my Metal thoughts for today. – Stone
“Free Spirit Soar” Tracklist: 01 Behold A Pale Horse 02 The Rider 03 Conquerors 04 Worms Of The Earth 05 The Watchman (CD-exclusive track) 06 Free Spirit Soar 07 The Bell Tolls 08 Alarm 09 Twin (CD-exclusive track) 10 Revelation XIX
Line Up: Mark Zonder – Drums Philip Bynoe – Bass Eric Juris – Guitars Jimmy Waldo – Keyboards Giles Lavery – Vocals
German power metal titans MASTERPLAN, who will not only embark on an extensive European tour with FIREWIND kicking off this February, return with a brand new song, entitled Rise Again! An official lyric video is now premiering below.
Following the band’s colossal anniversary edition, a reissue of their memorable debut re-released in 2023 via AFM Records, today, MASTERPLAN are sharing their new single Rise Again – an epic, powerful and hopefully first harbinger of a new album to follow in the not so distant future!
Founding member and guitarist, Roland Grapow, reveals:
“After almost 10-11 years of silence, we are ready to burst onto the heavy metal scene again. We missed the audience and new emotions. This song is about how we felt during the last period. Everything in the world changes so quickly that sometimes it is very difficult to understand where you belong. And it seems that you are talented and worthy of success, but you begin to doubt yourself. And this is a big mistake.
As usual and in the Masterplan style, we try to be positive and this is the main goal of our creativity. We want to inspire our fans to find the strength to overcome life’s challenges. Rise Again is the song about hope, life and better things to come, it’s like a phoenix rising from the ashes.“
LEAVES’ EYES Released Gripping Music Video For New Single “Realm of Dark Waves”
Symphonic metal vikings, LEAVES’ EYES, have revealed new details about their much-awaited, new album “Myths Of Fate“! Slated for a release on March 22, 2024 via AFM Records, the album pre-sale has just started at https://leaveseyes.bfan.link/Myths-of-Fate! Perfect in time to celebrate their new album live, LEAVES’ EYES have also announced an extensive touring schedule kicking off in March, find all live dates listed below!
Four years after bringing “The Last Viking” to Valhalla with their previous opus, LEAVES’ EYES resurrect with “Myths Of Fate” to celebrate their 20th year of existence. With their ninth studio album under their belt, the Germany-based act consolidates their leading position in the symphonic metal universe. Powerful, epic and impressive – LEAVES’ EYES once again merge traditional metal genres by fusing elements of folk, gothic, and classical music into a captivating sonic masterpiece.
With “Myths Of Fate”, the band once again set sails for new winds that definitely blow from the harsh shallows of the symphonic metal genre. The fantastic world of legends from Norse and Eastern European mythology is the setting for monumental entertainment. “The early Middle Ages were a fascinating time of change. Some of these innovations have left their mark around the globe and continue to impact our modern world”, tells band mastermind and singerAlex Krull.
In support of LEAVES’ EYES’ forthcoming opus, the band produced a total of five music videos with Mastersound Entertainment. Filmed on impressive locations in Iceland, Germany and Poland, they bring the myths captivatingly to the screen. Magic creatures, great battles and enchanting warrior queens come to live! The music video for “Realm Of Dark Waves” is now premiering HERE.
Once again, LEAVES’ EYES have created an entire universe of their own imagination that showcases their talent as storytellers and music perfectionists. No doubt, the band will leave an everlasting footprint in their own genre with this album. “Myths Of Fate” provides a dynamic soundtrack for a vivid escape into a magical world of mythology!
LEAVES’ EYES TOUR DATES with special guests METALITE on selected dates + CATALYST CRIME: 14.03.2024 UK Birmingham / Asylum 15.03.2024 UK Glasgow / Slay 16.03.2024 UK London / The Dome 17.03.2024 UK Manchester / Academy 3 19.03.2024 DE Nürnberg / Hirsch 20.03.2024 CZ Solothurn / Kofmehl 21.03.2024 DE Bochum / Matrix 23.03.2024 DE Osnabrück / Bastard Club 24.03.2024 DE Leipzig / Hellraiser 26.03.2024 DE Darmstadt / Centralstation 27.03.2024 DE München / Backstage 29.03.2024 ES Madrid / Moby Dick 30.03.2024 PT Porto / Hard Club 01.04.2024 ES Barcelona / La Nau 02.04.2024 IT Milano / Legend Club 03.04.2024 AT Vienna / Szene 04.04.2024 HU Budapest / Analog Music Club 05.04.2024 BG Sofia / Joy Station Club 06.04.2024 RO Bucharest / Fabrica 07.04.2024 RO Cluj Napoca / Form Space 08.04.2024 PL Krakau / Kamienna 12 09.04.2024 PL Warsaw / Hydrozagadka 10.04.2024 PL Gdansk / Drizzly Grizzly 11.04.2024 DE Hamburg / Headcrash 13.04.2024 DE Berlin / Orwohaus
Hard rock power metal titans FIREWIND, who are currently gearing up for an extensive European and US tour, among new live shows added in the UK and Japan (find all dates and infos listed below!), will release their much-awaited, tenth studio album, entitled Stand United, on March 1, 2024 via AFM Records.
Stand United will be available as CD, LP Vinyl, digital formats and highly collectable bundles including an autographed card, a FIREWIND cat patch plus a ticket for the band’s upcoming European tour withMASTERPLAN!For every ticket bundle purchase, fans will also get the chance to win a Meet & Greet, album pre-orders are up at: https://firewind.bfan.link/stand-united
Following previously-released, first album singles such as “Salvation Day”or the powerful anthem “Come Undone”, today, the iconic band formed by guitar legend Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil) has shared a music video for their latest single “Fallen Angel”! Gus G reveals:
“Fallen Angel” is a song about the eternal battle between good and evil, a song about the temptations of life. There’s been so many interpretations of all this. Working again with director Rainer “ZIPP” Franze, we gave a biblical touch on the visuals and there’s even some choreography going on, for your viewing pleasure. Musically, I feel there’s a good balance of modern and classic Metal elements which is where Firewind should be in 2024.”
The new FIREWIND music video is now premiering HERE
Since more than twenty years, FIREWIND enthrall heavy music fans with their exciting blend of hard rock and power metal. Razor-sharp riffs by Gus G, big hooks and solos meet the incredible vocal skills of charismatic singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, Radiant, Seventh Avenue, amongst others).
FIREWIND: Gus G. (guitars) Herbie Langhans (vocals) Petros Christo (bass) Jo Nunez (drums)
“Stand United” – track listing:
Salvation Day
Stand United
Destiny is Calling
The Power Lies Within
Come Undone
Fallen Angel
Chains
Land of Chaos
Talking in Your Sleep
Days of Grace
In support of Stand United and among a European tour with MASTERPLAN kicking off in February, FIREWIND will not only return to the US and Canada this Spring, but have also announced new live dates for the UK and Japan! Make sure to see them live on tour, Tickets and VIP bundles are available at:https://bnds.us/663bll
MASTERS OF FIRE EUROPEAN TOUR 2024 FIREWIND & MASTERPLAN LIVE:
29.02 🇩🇪 – Frankfurt, Das Bett 01.03 🇩🇪 – Bochum, Matrix 02.03 🇳🇱 – Uden, De Pul 03.03 🇫🇷 – Savigny Le Temple, L’Empreinte 06.03 🇪🇸 – Barcelona, Sala Wolf 07.03 🇪🇸– Madrid, Shoko 08.03 🇪🇸 – Pamplona, Totem 11.03 🇩🇪 – Munich, Backstage Halle 12.03 🇦🇹 – Wien, Szene 13.03 🇸🇰 – Bratislava, Randal Club 14.03 🇨🇿 – Zlin, Masters of Rock Cafe 15.03 🇵🇱 – Lublin, Studio im. Budki Suflera 16.03 🇵🇱 – Zabrze – CK Wiatrak 17.03 🇩🇪 – Leipzig – Hellraiser 20.03 🇳🇴 – Oslo, John Dee 21.03 🇸🇪 – Malmö, Plan B 22.03 🇸🇪 – Gothenburg, Surr Arena 23.03 🇸🇪 – Gävle, Gasklockorna 24.03 🇸🇪 – Stockholm, Biblioteket Live
UK 30.03 🇬🇧 – London, Underworld (w/ special guests Fury)
FIREWIND – STAND UNITED IN AMERICA 2024 – with Special guests: EDGE OF PARADISE & IMMORTAL GUARDIAN:
04.11 🇺🇸 Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz 04.12 🇺🇸 Manchester, NH – Angel City Music Hall 04.13 🇺🇸 Reading, PA – Reverb 04.14 🇺🇸 Pittsburgh, PA – Crafthouse 04.15 🇨🇦 Toronto, ON – Ground Control 04.16 🇺🇸 Westland, MI – Token Lounge 04.17 🇺🇸 Hobart, IN – Hobart Art Theatre 04.19 🇺🇸 Springfield, IL – Danenberger Family Vineyards 04.20 🇺🇸 Peoria, IL – Revival Music Hall 04.21 🇺🇸 Joliet, IL – The Forge 04.23 🇺🇸 Denver, CO – HQ 04.25 🇺🇸 San Diego, CA – Brick by Brick 04.26 🇺🇸 Anaheim, CA – Parish @ House of Blues 04.27 🇺🇸 W. Hollywood – Whisky A GoGo 04.28 🇺🇸 San Francisco – DNA Lounge 05.01 🇺🇸 Austin, TX – Come and Take it Live 05.02 🇺🇸 Dallas, TX – Sundown @ Granada 05.03 🇺🇸 San Antonio, TX – Rolling Oaks Events Center 05.06 🇺🇸 Houston, TX – Warehouse Live
JAPAN 15.05 🇯🇵 Tokyo – Shibuya Club Quattro 16.05 🇯🇵 Osaka – Club Quattro
ALTERIUM, the new Italian power metal quintet led by Nicoletta Rosellini (ex. Kalidia, Walk in Darkness), has revealed new details about their hotly-anticipated, first full-length studio album! “Of War And Flames” will be out on March 8, 2024 via AFM Records, the pre-sale is now available via: https://alterium.bfan.link/of-war-and-flames
Following previously-released, first album appetizers, “Siren’s Call”, “Drag Me To Hell” and the epic cover version of Sabaton‘s “Bismarck”, ALTERIUM have unleashed their powerful title track “Of War And Flames”!
Born in late 2022, ALTERIUM consists of vocalist Nicoletta and former bandmates Paolo Campitelli (guitars) and Dario Gozzi (drums) from Kalidia, soon joined by Alessandro Mammola (guitars, also in Draconicon) and Luca Scalabrin (bass, also in Altair).
After Kalidia parted ways, Nicoletta decided to take a different approach and finally unleashes her whole potential as both a singer and a songwriter. Produced by Lars Rettkowitz (Freedom Call), and featuring 9 original classy power metal tracks including the cover of “Bismarck”, “Of War and Flames” turns out to be a triumph of catchy choruses, terrific vocal lines, powerful sounds, strong guitar riffs, explosive drums, majestic choirs and captivating grooves, all skillfully mastered by Achim Koehler. Pre-order your album copy now, and get ready for new power metal hope ALTERIUM, when theywill take the metal scene by storm!
German Hard ‘n Heavy metal band CobraKill, recently signed to Frontiers, are set to release their incredible second album ‘Serpent’s Kiss‘, on 19th January 2024.
The band show excitement for the upcoming album: “’Serpent’s Kiss’ is a testament to our musical evolution. Recorded in the studio, it showcases a remarkable diversity, giving birth to infectious earworms right from the initial sessions. The album is a testament to our growth since our debut, radiating with creativity and displaying a newfound maturity. With drummer Toby Ventura taking the reins in production, mixing, and recording, we had unparalleled freedom to sculpt our sound. “Serpent’s Kiss” undoubtedly marks a significant leap forward for us”.
Formed in 2020, CobraKill swiftly garnered attention for embracing the sound, attitude, and ferocity reminiscent of iconic artists such as Mötley Crüe, Judas Priest, W.A.S.P., Lizzy Borden, and RATT. Their ambitious goal is to reignite the flames of heavy metal’s glory days from the ’80s and conquer the world with their unique music.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of these legendary bands, the quintet, featuring Nick Adams on vocals, Randy White on lead guitar, Tommy Gun on rhythm guitar, Crippler Ramirez on bass, and Toby Ventura on drums, not only captures the essence of the ’80s but embodies it in both sound and appearance.
CobraKill‘s rise to prominence has been marked by electrifying performances and meticulously crafted songs. Fans attending their shows often describe the experience as magical, with many likening the atmosphere to witnessing the young Mötley Crüe commanding the stage.
The band’s debut album, ‘Cobratör,’ released in 2022, achieved remarkable success, selling out its physical format within weeks—a testament to the band’s rapid ascent in the music scene.
CobraKill’s music seamlessly blends metal, rock, sleaze, and glam, creating a sonic landscape that not only pays homage to the glory days of hair metal in the ’80s but also asserts the enduring vitality of rock n’ roll in 2024. ‘Serpent’s Kiss’ promises to be an infectious rock record that will undoubtedly set the tone for the musical landscape in the year ahead.
The brand new open air festival METAL PARK have announced its first edition, set to take place from July 6th to July 7th 2024 in the ancient park of Villa Ca’ Cornaro in Romano D’Ezzelino, Vicenza (Italy).
The legendary frontman of Iron Maiden, BRUCE DICKINSON will headline the first day of the festival with his solo project. The second day will host as headliners the iconic Norwegian black metal band EMPEROR.
CAVALERA (full SEPULTURA set), THE DARKNESS, STRATOVARIUS, RICHIE KOTZEN, DARK TRANQUILLITY, MICHAEL MONROE, MOONSPELL and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE are the first confirmed support acts.
JULY 6 2024: BRUCE DICKINSON THE DARKNESS STRATOVARIUS MICHAEL MONROE RITCHIE KOTZEN
more tba
JULY 7 2024:
EMPEROR CAVALERA – Full Sepultura Set DARK TRANQUILLITY MOONSPELL FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE
more tba
Two-days passes and single day tickets can be purchased on Ticketone, Ticketmaster, TicketSms, and Mailticket. Attenders can also buy admission ticket to the camping site and car parking.
Single day ticket: 70€ + p.d. Two-days pass: 100€ + p.d. Camping 2 nights including pitch for 4 people with tent or camper van and car parking: 40 € Parking (1 car): 7 €
Epic Metal pioneers WARLORD are on a mission in tribute to fallen bandmate William J Tsamis and return once more with a new album in 2024.
With “Free Spirit Soar”, a brand-new studio album by Warlord with all songs having been recorded between March and September 2023, singer Giles Lavery and drummer Mark Zonder honor their bandmate Bill Tsamis who passed away in 2021.
They are joined by Jimmy Waldo on keyboards/synthesizer, Philip Bynoe on bass and Eric Juris on guitars. “We wanted to finish these pieces of music that were started ‘for Bill’,” explains Lavery, “and the material we felt was certainly strong enough to inspire us to do so.” Regarding the guitar parts he specifies: “Bill is there where we could pull his tracks off the demo recordings, in much the same way the Beatles were recently able to rescue John Lennon’s voice from an old demo tape. however be assured this album is not “a demo”, nor does it sound like one, our new guitarist Eric does most of the heavy lifting as far the recording, but all of the music was written by Bill and we stayed very very faithful to what he wrote.”
Tracklist: 01 Behold A Pale Horse 02 The Rider 03 Conquerors 04 Worms Of The Earth 05 The Watchman (CD-exclusive track) 06 Free Spirit Soar 07 The Bell Tolls 08 Alarm 09 Twin (CD-exclusive track) 10 Revelation XIX
Line Up: Mark Zonder – Drums Philip Bynoe – Bass Eric Juris – Guitars Jimmy Waldo – Keyboards Giles Lavery – Vocals
Watch out for further news such as the album cover, pre-order info as well as a first single very soon!
QUEENSRŸCHE are releasing another thought-provoking video that was created by Above The Void with the help of AI. Check out “Nocturnal Lights”, the 8th video taken from Digital Noise Alliance: https://youtu.be/2eZ9_1l-9R0
The band comments: “This is a song spawned from the truly catastrophic year of 2020. Beginning with Kobe Bryant’s helicopter crash to a relentless global pandemic with lockdowns. If that wasn’t enough, we had to endure natural disasters, racial injustices, protesters, a chaotic reality tv presidential election, political division, highest level of unemployment, as well as the postponement of the 2020 summer Olympic games in Japan.”
Nocturnal Light” is taken from their latest album, Digital Noise Alliance, that was released in October of 2022. It is QUEENSRŸCHE’s 16th studio album and it continues their ever-evolving legacy. Once again teaming up with producer Zeuss (Rob Zombie, Hatebreed), “Digital Noise Alliance” not only refracts QUEENSRŸCHE’s past accomplishments but also pushes into the band’s future. It is the band effortlessly moving from strength to strength: immediate and thought-provoking.
Photo by Silly Robot Studios
QUEENSRŸCHE: Eddie Jackson – bass Michael Wilton – guitar Todd La Torre – vocals Casey Grillo – drums Mike Stone – guitar
Digital Noise Alliance” is quintessentially QUEENSRŸCHE. Track to track it embodies the lush melodies, passion and intelligence that’s been the mark of the band since they first took hold of the flame with their hugely received self-titled 4-song EP in 1984.
Speaking of their legendary self-titled EP: Come March 2024 QUEENSRŸCHE will embark on “The Origins Tour” with Special Guests Armored Saint throughout USA and Canada. It will be the first time in their history that the EP and The Warning will be performed live in their entirety!
Join them for this unique and very special experience, as they celebrate the origins of QUEENSRŸCHE.
QUEENSRYCHE – The Origins Tour PLAYING THE EP & THE WARNING w/ Special Guests ARMORED SAINT Mar 22 Hell’s Heroes Festival * – Houston, TX Mar 23 Tower Theatre * – Oklahoma City, OK Mar 26 Sycuan Casino * – El Cajon, CA Mar 27 House of Blues – Anaheim, CA Mar 28 Ace of Spades – Sacramento, CA Mar 31 Neptune Theatre – Seattle, WA Apr 2 Black Sheep – Colorado Springs, CO Apr 3 Gothic Theatre – Englewood, CO Apr 5 Ameristar Casino & Hotel * – Kansas City, MO Apr 6 Delmar Hall – St Louis, MO Apr 7 Paramount Theatre – Cedar Rapids, MI Apr 9 Coronado Theatre – Rockford, IL Apr 10 Peoria Civic Center – Peoria, IL Apr 12 The Vogue – Indianapolis, IN Apr 13 State Theatre – Kalamazoo, MI Apr 14 Majestic Theatre – Detroit, MI Apr 16 Bogart’s – Cincinnati, OH Apr 17 House of Blues – Cleveland, OH Apr 19 (CA) Phoenix Theatre – Toronto Apr 20 (CA) Théâtre Beanfield – Montreal Apr 21 (CA) Elements – Kitchener Apr 24 Roxian Theatre – Pittsburgh, PA Apr 26 Empire Live – Albany, NY Apr 27 Palladium – Worcester, MA Apr 28 Toad’s – New Haven, CT Apr 30 Starland Ballroom – Sayreville, NJ May 1 Keswick Theatre – Glenside, PA May 3 The Paramount – Huntington, NY May 5 The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC May 7 Masquerade – Atlanta, GA May 9 Jannus Live – St. Petersburg, FL May 10 The Plaza Live – Orlando, FL May 11 Culture Room – Ft. Lauderdale, FL May 12 The Ranch – Ft. Meyers, FL *no ARMORED SAINT
Clockwise – L-R – Dan Cleary – Vocals, John Simon Fallon – Guitar, Pete Klassen – Bass, Tim Brown – Guitar (Photo Credit: Dana Zuk)
New Music Video “Circle of Evil” From Seventh Studio Album “ULTRAPOWER” Out Feb 2024
Produced by Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810)
Canadian shredders STRIKER announce they will be joining the Legions of Metal 2024 lineup being hosted in Chicago, IL on May 3rd and 4th at Reggie’s – info. They will be performing alongside Unleash The Archers, WatchTower, Hirax, Mourn The Light, Ice Howl among more to be announced at a later date.
STRIKER is preparing to unleash their seventh studio album “ULTRAPOWER” on February 2, 2024. They recently shared their latest single “Circle of Evil” accompanied by a music video. This punishing classic metal track brings STRIKER back to its roots of speed and power.
STRIKER is preparing to unleash their seventh studio album“ULTRAPOWER” on February 2, 2024. They recently shared their latest single “Circle of Evil” accompanied by a music video. This punishing classic metal track brings STRIKER back to its roots of speed and power.
“Secret societies, shape-shifting reptilians, and evil forces? You’d be running for your life too. We’ve got the nuclear codes and we are launching heavy metal nukes directly into your ears.” adds the band.
ULTRAPOWER” follows their Juno Award-winning self-released full-length “Play to Win” (2018) released on their label Record Breaking Records and features the band’s latest lineup addition of long-time friend and guitarist John Simon Fallon (The Order of Chaos). For the band’s seventh full-length, they teamed up with producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810), entering the studio this past March. With the band writing material since 2018, “ULTRAPOWER” is a collection of five years of Striker tinkering and exploring new avenues.
“ULTRAPOWER is the Striker’s triumphant return to reality. The reality is that shredding rules and nothing can stand in its way. There are classic banger Striker songs, to dabbling in punk style choruses into full-on concept songs. There’s a lot to sink your teeth into if you’ve got the guts.” adds vocalist Dan Cleary.
STRIKER recently wrapped up their fan-supported Kickstarter campaign with exclusive special edition CDs, Vinyl, and merch to aid them with upcoming physical production, marketing, and artwork. Fans supporting the Kickstarter gave STRIKER the ability to continue as an independent band.
“Seriously… a MASSIVE thank you to everyone for your support! Some of you took us over the finish line at the last minute, breaking into the 30K tier. This means we’ll be crankin’ out some Special Edition CDs with extra bonus tracks! Fire it up!!”
Track listing, Album Artwork, singles, and tour dates will revealed at a later date.
Previous singles “Best of the Best of the Best” (2023),“Strange Love” (2022), and “Death Wish”(2021), which will be featured on the album can be viewed and heard via their music videos below.
Following their Summer run crisscrossing the continent with their metal comrades in Ghost, Swedish heavy metal icons AMONAMARTH will return to US and Canadian stages this Spring on the Metal Crushes All Tour 2024, produced by Live Nation — the band’s biggest North American tour to date!
Set to commence on April 21st and run through May 25th, the twenty-four-date journey includes a raid at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver as well as arena stops in Portland, Vancouver, Quebec City, Asheville, Tampa, and Anaheim. Support will be provided by special guests Cannibal Corpse along with Obituary and Frozen Soul making for a must-see heavy metal event of the year! See all confirmed dates below.
AMON AMARTH comments, “Heed our warning; we are gearing up for our biggest and most epic raid in North American history! We are bringing a massive show that will leave your cities in ashes. Scorching the Earth with us are our good friends Cannibal Corpse, Obituary, and Frozen Soul. Come out to the shows and party like Vikings and raise your horns with us. METAL CRUSHES ALL!”
Ticket presales for the Metal Crushes All Tour begin Tuesday, December 5th at 11:00am Eastern time and run through Thursday, December 7th at 10:00pm local time. VIP upgrades with the new Viking Valhalla Experience are available Tuesday, December 5th at 12:00pm Eastern time.
General on sales start Friday, December 8th at 10:00am local time atamonamarth.com.
AMON AMARTH: Metal Crushes All Tour 2024 w/ Cannibal Corpse, Obituary, Frozen Soul: 4/21/2024 Revel Entertainment Center – Albuquerque, NM 4/22/2024 Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Denver, CO 4/24/2024 The Complex – Salt Lake City, UT 4/26/2024 Alaska Airlines’ Theater Of The Clouds – Portland, OR * 4/27/2024 PNE Forum – Vancouver, BC * 4/29/2024 Edmonton Convention Center – Edmonton, AB 4/30/2024 Grey Eagle Event Center – Calgary, AB 5/03/2024 Steelhouse – Omaha, NE 5/04/2024 The Sylvee – Madison, WI 5/05/2024 GLC Live At 20 Monroe – Grand Rapids, MI 5/07/2024 Rose Music Center At The Heights – Huber Heights, OH 5/09/2024 The Wellmont – Montclair, NJ 5/10/2024 Toyota Oakdale Theater – Wallingford, CT 5/11/2024 Videotron Centre – Quebec City * 5/13/2024 The Fillmore Philadelphia – Philadelphia, PA 5/14/2024 The Fillmore Silver Spring – Silver Spring, MD 5/16/2024 ExploreAsheville.com Arena – Asheville, NC * 5/17/2024 House Of Blues – Myrtle Beach, SC 5/18/2024 Yuengling Center – Tampa, FL * 5/20/2024 Bayou Music Center – Houston, TX 5/21/2024 Boeing Center At Tech Port – San Antonio, TX 5/23/2024 Arizona Financial Theatre – Phoenix, AZ 5/24/2024 Pearl Concert Theater At Palms Casino Resort – Las Vegas, NV 5/25/2024 Honda Center – Anaheim, CA *
arena show
Fans can check out a teaser for the band’s upcoming video for “Saxons and Vikings” HERE and can preview and purchase The Great Heathen Army at: metalblade.com/amonamarth.
AMON AMARTH continues to tour in support of their critically adored The Great Heathen Army full-length. Recorded with esteemed studio guru Andy Sneap and released in 2022, the record represents another bold leap forward for the band, as their trademark sound undergoes yet another skillful, evolutionary overhaul, both lyrically and musically. From the noisily rabble-rousing “Find A Way Or Make One” and the pummeling, pugilistic “Get In The Ring” to the cinematic squall of the title track, The Great Heathen Army encapsulates the essence of this legendary band, while still allowing acres of space for new ideas.
Formed in Tumba, Sweden in 1992, AMON AMARTH has forged an extraordinary legacy over three decades of thunderous, anthemic metal, all rich in the magical imagery of Viking history, folklore, and culture. With albums like 2008’s widely acclaimed Twilight Of The Thunder God and 2016’s conceptual triumph Jomsviking, the Swedes have been consistent standard bearers for heavy metal as a life-affirming and communal experience, armed with a seemingly endless stream of instant classic songs.
Following their much-acclaimed debut album, Ban The Light ( 2019, AFM Records ) and a series of live tracks, taken off their incredible show in support of JUDAS PRIEST “Live In Dalhalla”, Swedish hard rock trio DEAF RAT has released a brand new single! The song is out now on all digital streaming services via https://deafrat.bfan.link/say-your-lies a lyric video for “Say Your Lies” is below.
“Say Your Lies” tells a story about the mysterious phenomenon of sleep paralysis and the malicious entity nightmare that has been documented to haunt people in their sleep worldwide since the early 1300s. “In six months time, I had three friends tell me about their experiences of waking up in the middle of the night, unable to move or speak”,frontman Frankie reveals. “They all saw a dark diffuse shadow like character in their room, and all felt like if someone was sitting on top of their chest. Now if that is not a good topic for a hard rock song then I don’t know what is!”
“Say Your Lies” shines as an expertly produced rock anthem that showcases the band’s musical prowess.DEAF RAT have again succeeded in merging lyrics and music into a gripping, pulsating high-energy rock track! Get ready to get dragged into the abyss, and watch the band’s new lyric video for “Say Your Lies”HERE.
DEAF RAT hails from Dalarna in Sweden, a small region with long traditions of mining, steel industry, music and a healthy dose of DIY attitude. The broad sound of DEAF RAT is built on a strong foundation of classic 70s, 80s and 90s rock packed with influences of the band members different personal favourites. With their massive guitar riffs and strong melodies, this is the band that fills up the cracks in the ageing concrete between old school and modern hard rock.
With their driving riffs, thundering drum beats, and an electrifying presence, DEAF RAT prove that they are one of the most explosive and dynamic forces in the world of hard rock. The band is currently in the studio, working on the successor album to Ban The Light. Earlier and this recent summer, they have already shared a first track, entitled “Schizophrenic Part Of Me”, which is available on all digital services and on Youtube. Frankie adds: “To be in the studio with the other guys is a dream. I can just sit in the studio and listen to the guys play their guitar parts and enjoy their sheer talent which is over the top!”
Photo collage by Randy Caballero, Doug Julien, and Anthony Lopardo
US heavy metal titans RIOT (V) are finally back with a brand-new studio album titled MeanStreets, set for release February 16th, 2024 through Atomic Fire Records! The record features twelve tracks recorded and mixed by Bruno Ravel and mastered by Bart Gabriel. Artwork was provided by Gyula Havancsák (Accept, Stratovarius, Brainstorm) who captured the galloping style of the new material skillfully without missing the band’s signature seal. In advance of the release today the band unleashes the record’s first single, “High Noon.”
Bassist Donnie Van Stavern comments, “We are extremely excited to release our seventeenth RIOT record, Mean Streets, with the mighty Atomic Fire Records label! We went back to the roots a bit on this one with some hard rockers and of course power metal stylings. Our new pre-release lyric video ‘High Noon’ is a song I wrote with [late founding guitarist] Mark Reale in mind; he loved the Old West and wrote songs about it as well (‘Restless Breed,’ ‘Gunfighter’) and the music is a reminiscence of Thundersteel and The Privilege Of Power! Enjoy, metal warriors, more awesomeness is on the way!”
Adds vocalist Todd Michael Hall, “I’m really excited for the people to hear Mean Streets. We are evolving well with one foot rooted in the past and one foot pointing towards the future.”
Watch RIOT (V)’s “High Noon” videoHERE. Stream/purchase the track HERE.
Mean Streets will be available on digipak CD (EU), jewel case CD (US), vinyl in multiple color variants, and digitally.
Preorder the album in the physical format of your choice, pre-save it on your favorite DSP, or preorder it digitally to receive “High Noon” instantly now at: riotv.afr.link/meanstreetsPR.
Mean Streets – Track Listing:
Hail To The Warriors
Feel The Fire
Love Beyond The Grave
High Noon
Before This Time
Higher
Mean Streets
Open Road
Mortal Eyes
Lost Dreams
Lean Into It
No More
RIOT (V): Todd Michael Hall – vocals Mike Flyntz – guitars Nick Lee – guitars Don Van Stavern – bass Frank Gilchriest – drums
Subscribe to Atomic Fire Records on YouTube HERE and listen to “High Noon” as well as other new tracks in the AFR New Releases playlist on Spotify HERE.
Following their recent signing announcement with AFM Records and a first single, “Root Of All Evil”, released on Halloween taken off their upcoming studio album, MISTER MISERY are premiering a new track titled “Boogeyman Boogie”!
The band reveals:“We always enjoy making songs that are purely drawn from our love for Halloween and horror movies, and ‘Boogeyman Boogie’ is just that adrenaline fueled anthem we wanted to include on the album!”
MISTER MISERY is an innovative, modern and ground-breaking metal band from Sweden. Blending clean and gritty vocals along with high-voltage riffs and anthemic choruses, they have developed a unique sound and style, and one that captures the essence of all the sub-genres in modern heavy music.
Since forming back in 2018, MISTER MISERY have released two critically acclaimed studio albums (Unalive and A Brighter Side Of Death) and several highly praised and top-playlisted singles to date. Paired with an obscene and theatrical appearance, they create an experience that speaks to all senses.
MISTER MISERY has become a force that crushes stages on the biggest festival the scene has to offer, such as Wacken Open Air, Master of Rock, Full Metal Cruise, Hills Of Rock to name just a few. MISTER MISERY has played as support of some of the most prestigious bands in metal, such as Nightwish and Dream Theater in front of over 15.000 people. One thing is for certain: They will leave NO survivors!
The band is currently gearing up for an exciting new chapter of their career and has joined forces with renowned label AFM Records, who will proudly release their forthcoming album in 2024!
MISTER MISERY: Harley Vendetta – Vocals/Guitar Alex Nine – Lead Guitar/Backup Vocals Rizzy – Drums/Backup Vocals Alex Alister – Bass/Backup Vocals
Polish heavy metal act CRYSTAL VIPER are releasing music video for “In The Haunted Chapel” single, which came out digitally earlier this year. It’s the first CRYSTAL VIPER video featuring Marta Gabriel on vocals and bass guitar (who played rhythm guitar between 2009 and 2022), and drummer Jakub Galwas, who joined CRYSTAL VIPER last year.
“The music video is one thing, but we have some other cool news to share as well” says CRYSTAL VIPER front woman and founder, Marta Gabriel. “We started to work on a new studio album, which will come out in the Summer of 2024 on Listenable Records. We’re very proud of what we achieved on our latest album, “The Cult”, so from one side you can expect its natural continuation – especially when it comes to lyrics, which once again are inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft – but from the other side, we prepared few surprises and we will explore some new territories. I think all CRYSTAL VIPER fans will be very happy, and I believe the album might be interesting for people who never listened to us” she adds.
Crystal Viper Discography: The Curse of Crystal Viper (Album – 2007) Metal Nation (Album – 2009) Legends (Album – 2010) Crimen Excepta (Album – 2012) Possession (Album – 2013) Queen of the Witches (Album – 2017) Tales of Fire and Ice (Album – 2019) The Cult (LISTENABLE Album – 2021) The Last Axeman (LISTENABLE Album- 2022)
Brooklyn power trio SANHEDRIN will close out the year with their first ever Texas shows! The trio of dates will run through Austin, San Antonio, and Houston with support provided by Temple Of Love.
Comments guitarist Jeremy Sosville, “In our nine years as a band, we have travelled many times across America and across the Atlantic. Somehow, we’ve never been able to make it to Texas… until now! This November 30th, December 1st, and 2nd as we finally make our way to the Lone Star state. We know that Texas has some of the most dedicated rock and metal fans in the world, and we are psyched to finally make this trek south. These shows will be the final shows of 2024 for us, as we will be hunkering down this winter to work on our next album. Speaking of, we will be sharing a few of these new songs for the first time ever during these shows. We look forward to seeing you there!”
Tickets are on sale now. See all confirmed dates below.
SANHEDRIN w/ Temple Of Love: 11/30/2023 The Lost Well – Austin, TX w/ Ungrieved, Monte Luna 12/01/2023 The Mix – San Antonio, TX w/ ManEaters Of Tsavo 12/02/2023 Black Magic Social Club – Houston, TX w/ Doomstress
SANHEDRIN does metal the old-school way, channeling the greats that preceded them to create something that is instantly familiar yet with a new, modern energy to it. The band released their Lights On full-length last year via Metal Blade Records.
Tracked, mixed, and co-produced by Colin Marston at his studio Menegroth, The Thousand Caves in Queens, New York, Lights On refers to the many events of the last few years that have exposed larger societal issues long hidden or ignored. Notes the band, “In a time where the world around you feels like it’s aflame, when our heavy metal heroes are beginning to disappear to failing health or changing social norms, we, stand here as a shining light through the dark. We are prepared to fly the flag of heavy metal in these trying and uncertain times and have only begun to show the world what we are capable of.”
The Iron Maidens made their Tennessee debut in Knoxville on Nov. 11th. The world’s only female tribute to Iron Maiden brought the beast to The Concourse along with openers Kamenar and Skyway 61. A crowd of Maiden shirts waited as the doors to the venue opened.
Kamenar hit the stage first, hyping the crowd up right away. Kamenar is made up of twin brothers Sean (vocals,guitar,andbass) and John Kamenar (drums). The two young boys from Florida put the duo in dynamic duo and prove that the younger generation will not let the sound of the 80’s die. With obvious influences from many of the bands they have opened for like Warrant, LA Guns, and Bret Michaels, the Kamenar twins show passion for their music. Playing originals and covers, both boys shined, but what really set them apart was something not many can say they can do, a twin drum solo. The Kamenar twins destroyed the drum kit together and defiantly gained some new fans that night.
Skyway 61 took to the stage next decorating it in a way that could only be best described as Steven Tyler’s closet. While setting up, the whole band was engaging with the audience making sure that when the first note hit the crowd would already be screaming. Lead singer Alden Duren had more energy than most bands on the rise. With nonstop movement, he excited every inch of the venue. Vocally Duren has his own unique style but with hints of Axl Rose and Robert Plant especially with the higher notes. The whole band fed off the cheers of the crowd but Duren ate it up the most. Towards the end of the show Duren had let both the music and the cheers from the crowd power him and ended up not only taking off his shirt but also his shoes and throwing them side stage. It takes more than just looking the part to be a rockstar and together Skyway 61 has created their own upbeat sound that everyone could feel.
As Skyway 61 left the stage, the crew began to set up for the Maidens. The little details that the girls add to their performance, like Nicko’s friend Sooty proudly displayed on Linda Mcdonald’s drum set and Eddie’s head mounted on a street sign depicting Transylvania and Acacia Ave, really heightened the experience. The show started as many Iron Maiden shows have with Churchill’s Speech and leader Kirsten Rosenberg taking the stage to the high powered intro of Aces High. Rosenberg lives up to her stage name, Bruce Chickinson, in both appearance and her exceptional vocals. Not only did she take on the vocals styling of Dickinson but also of Paul Di’Anno. Rosenberg could easily add Paula Di’Anno to her list of nicknames. From Dickinson’s high end screams to DiAnnos’ punk low end Rosenberg hit it all, while still adding her own twist.
Maiden is known for having one of the most iconic guitar duos in metal and the Maidens kept that legacy alive. Nikki Stringfield takes on the role of Dave Murrary while newest addition Shani Kimelman fills the role of Adrian Smith. Both guitarists played with such ease like they were a born to do this. While talking with a fan, Kimelman stated that her guitar is an extension of her hand. She also mentioned that she keeps her setup as close to Smith’s to get the authentic sound. It is safe say that she succeeded. Stringfield dominates every one of Murray’s solos. Her hand moves up and down the neck of her very own signature guitar with such grace; almost like a flutter but never missing a note.
Bass player Wanda Ortiz had big burgundy and blue wrist bands to fill but from the first strum it was apparent she was the right woman to represent founding member Steve Harris. Standing firm up front proudly displaying the West Ham logo on her bass, Ortiz perfected the 3 finger gallop that Maiden fans have come to love. While each song shows off the bass in its own way, Ortiz truly shined during Wrathchild and Phantom of the Opera. Drummer Linda Mcdonald is basically the female Nicko McBrain. She is nothing but smiles as she attacks the drum set. Mcbrain has a much larger kit but Mcdonald was able to get the point across with her own setup. Ortiz and Mcdonald make up the perfect rhythm section.
A few surprise guests also took the stage with the Maidens. Kinelman defeated A Stranger in a Strange Land (Cyborg Eddie) and his ray gun with her epic shredding. Rosenberg went face to face with the devil himself and Ortiz defended the stage from Eddie the Head. Eddie, while not a musician, still has a vital role in Maiden history. Keeping him in the show is extremely important to have a true Maiden moment, and they go above and beyond with multiple versions of the beloved mascot.
The Iron Maidens are a must see for every Maiden fan and are a great way to hold you over till your next Iron Maiden show. Whether it’s Maidens alum Nita Strauss or new comer Shani Kimelman, every woman to step on that stage under the Maidens name knows and understands the importance of Iron Maiden to everyone in their crowd. – Tanis Enos
Heavy metal icons PANTERA will return to the stage this February on the second leg of their North American headlining tour. The journey follows the band’s massively successful twenty-city run this past Summer, a tour which stood as one of the most anticipated tours of 2023, as well as their dates supporting Metallica. Featuring classic members, vocalist Philip H.Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown, alongside guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante, the latest stretch of live dates continues the celebration of the lives of late founding members, drummer Vinnie Paul and guitarist Dimebag Darrell.
The trek, which will commence on February 3rd in Sunrise, Florida, runs through fourteen cities, coming to a close on February 27th in Quebec City, Quebec. The band will again be joined by special guest, acclaimed metal powerhouse Lamb Of God, with additional support acts to be announced in the weeks to come.
Comments Anselmo, “Looking forward to jamming with everybody! These shows mean a lot and we aim to kick ass! Love y’all!”
Adds Brown, “We’re really excited to announce new dates in 2024. Looking forward to bringing the show to some cities we missed in 2023. Come jam!”
Ticket presales and VIP upgrades begin Tuesday, November 14th at 10:00am local time. General on sale date is Friday, November 17th at 10:00am local time at Pantera.com.
PANTERA was recently confirmed to play the 2024 edition of Download Festival. The performance will mark the band’s first UK appearance in three decades! Additionally, fans can catch PANTERA supporting Metallica on the remaining dates of their North American stadium tour this August. See all confirmed dates below.
PANTERA w/ Special Guest Lamb Of God: 2/03/2024 Amerant Bank Arena – Sunrise, FL 2/05/2024 Amalie Arena – Tampa, FL 2/07/2024 Rupp Arena – Lexington, KY 2/09/2024 Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN 2/10/2024 FedEx Forum – Memphis, TN 2/13/2024 T-Mobile Center – Kansas City, MO 2/14/2024 Pinnacle Bank Arena – Lincoln, NE 2/16/2024 Canada Life Centre – Winnipeg, MB 2/18/2024 Resch Center – Green Bay, WI 2/20/2024 Van Andel Arena – Grand Rapids, MI 2/22/2024 Madison Square Garden – New York, NY 2/24/2024 CFG Bank Arena – Baltimore, MD 2/26/2024 Scotiabank Arena – Toronto, ON 2/27/2024 Centre Vidéotron – Québec City, QC End Tour 6/14-16/2024 Download Fest @ Donington Park – Derby, UK #festival 8/02/2024 Gillette Stadium – Foxborough, MA ** 8/09/2024 Soldier Field – Chicago, IL ** 8/16/2024 US Bank Stadium – Minneapolis, MN ** 8/23/2024 Commonwealth Stadium – Edmonton, AB ** 8/30/2024 Lumen Field – Seattle, WA **
** PANTERA supporting Metallica
Creators of the “power groove,” PANTERA got their start in Arlington, Texas with its best-known lineup, consisting of founding members and brothers, drummer Vinnie Paul and guitarist Dimebag Darrell, with bassist Rex Brown and vocalist Philip H. Anselmo. The group would become one the most successful and influential bands in heavy metal history. To date, PANTERA has sold 20 million records worldwide and has received four Grammy nominations along with sold out arena tours across the globe.
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