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OCEANS DIVIDE – Concert Overview: The Crocodile Rock Cafe, Allentown, Pennsylvania, March 19th, 2011

Posted in alternative rock, concerts, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal odyssey, modern rock, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on April 20, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(All Photo Credits: Tom Coderre)

OCEANS DIVIDE – I went to the Crocodile Rock Cafe in Allentown, Pennsylvania, back on March 19th, 2011, to catch A Tour Of The American Dream. This tour is headlined by Modern/Alt Rock/Hard Rock legends COLD. Oceans Divide, Egypt Central and Ireland’s very own Rockin’ juggernaut known as KOPEK, each took the stage that night in support of COLD. Pennsylvania’s local favorite and steadily rising Maddam Ink. capped off the evening of Hard Rock noize.

And what a night of Hard Rock it was. I remember turning to Tom Coderre (Metal Odyssey’s staff photographer) and saying: “this is like a mini-indoor Hard Rock festival tonight”. Tom agreed and was stoked to get his camera into Rockin’ gear. The mood among the huge crowd of Hard Rock lovin’ fans was laid back and friendly. Once the Hard Rock was played on stage though, the mood of the fans quickly shifted into psyche-out mode. Oh, there is nothing more exhilarating than standing among a crowded club of fellow Heavy Music fans, all with one common goal to… GET ROCKED OUT!

Chris McCoy – vocals

Chris McCoy – The vocalist for Oceans Divide bestowed complete confidence onstage, with a touch of swagger in his step. Chris also has the vocals to back it up. Harmonious and still hard edged, Chris’s vocals gives an identity to the band he founded and leads.

Oceans Divide can take some hefty credit for psyching out their fans in attendance. Their hook laden and melodic style of sound, coupled with the high energy level they exhibited, convinced me Oceans Divide has something very cool and now going on. My Metal perception told me Oceans Divide looked and played comfortable on stage, exhibiting signs of a band that plays tight and gets along. I’ll say this much: I went to the Crocodile Rock that night familiar with a few songs from Oceans Divide… and left as a jubilant believer of this band.

Anyone unfamiliar with Oceans Divide should get acquainted with their self-titled debut album, which has the subtitle: the ep. Oceans Divide plays Rock and Hard Rock, fused with some Modern style relevance, at a level of quality I’m used to hearing from bands such as Creed, Alter Bridge and CAVO, to name a few. Yes, these guys from Spokane, Washington are new… and they’re really good. Melodically driven songs carried out through stellar musicianship and head turning vocals, are what makes Oceans Divide a band worth listening to and watching play live.

Silas McQuain – On drums, Silas was letting his beats be known and felt, as he kept the live rhythmic pace of Oceans Divide moving and the fans grooving.

Left: Dan Goodman on bass with Chris McCoy. Dan’s twin brother John plays lead guitar for Oceans Divide, (not shown).

Morgan Mallory on rhythm guitar

I had an opportunity to chat with rhythm guitarist Morgan Mallory after their set. Filling in for Eric Varnell on this tour only, Morgan (more than) appeared to fit right in with Oceans Divide, both onstage and off. Morgan proved to be a friendly, outgoing and very likable guy. Morgan is also the frontman for LUCID, a Rock/Metal band from the state of Washington. You can find out more about Morgan Mallory by clicking here: Morgan Mallory.com

(Left: Stone “that’s me”, Right: Chris McCoy/vocalist)

Chris McCoy, as with every member of Oceans Divide, is a class act. Chris stopped to chat with fans all night long. Signing autographs and posing for pictures for his fans seemed like a call of duty for the Oceans Divide frontman. As COLD later took the stage, Chris motioned to Cold’s frontman Scooter Ward and said to me: “It’s because of Scooter Ward and Cold that I’m doing what I do today. I was listening to Cold when I was fourteen years old. He and that band paved the way for bands like ours, he is an inspiration to me”.

OCEANS DIVIDE – ep (Released February 2011) This 7 song ep was released via UEG (Union Entertainment Group, Inc.) * This OCEANS DIVIDE ep comes with: The Metal Odyssey Hard Rockin’ stamp of approval.

This is the “lit-up” signage above the merch table for Oceans Divide.

Here is a cool cymbal that was for sale at the Oceans Divide merch table. Notice it is autographed by the band too! I didn’t buy it, um, I had already spent my limit on CD’s and beer. Metal be thy name.

* For more info on OCEANS DIVIDE, just click the link below:

OCEANS DIVIDE – Official Website

LONG LIVE OCEANS DIVIDE.

Stone.

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SYMFONIA – New Album “In Paradisum” Streaming Via AOL Music and Released Today! April 19th, 2011

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, melodic metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, Power Metal, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on April 19, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

SYMFONIA, the new Melodic Metal project featuring the all-star lineup of vocalist Andre Matos (ex-Angra), guitarist Timo Tolkki (ex-Stratovarius), drummer Uli Kusch (ex-Helloween), bassist Jari Kainulainen (ex-Stratovarius) and keyboardist Mikko Harkin (ex-Sonata Arctica), unleash their debut full-length today via Armoury Records. Titled In Paradisum, the ten-track offering was recorded mainly in Finland, mixed and mastered in Italy and produced by Timo Tolkki.

In celebration of its release, the album is currently streaming in its entirety via AOL Music. To check it out, point your browser HERE.

(Source: Earsplit PR)

LONG LIVE SYMFONIA.

Stone.

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Masaki Murashita of HEMOPTYSIS: Announces Endorsement Deal With ENGL Amps

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , , , , on April 19, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo Credit: Eyeful Images Photographic Arts)

Hemoptysis guitarist (and vocalist) Masaki Murashita has announced an endorsement deal with ENGL Amps, joining notable musicians such as Gary Holt (Exodus), Jeff Loomis (Nevermore), Mille Petrozza (Kreator), Marty Friedman, and many others in his endorsement of ENGL Amps.

Murashita had this to say:
“I’m extremely honored to become a member of the Engl family. Engl’s amps are absolutely amazing, and I was hooked on them the instant I plugged in. Engl has provided me with another killer “weapon” for Hemoptysis’ Metal onslaught.”

Hemoptysis Upcoming Dates:
Apr 29  The Drunken Lass – Prescott AZ.
Apr 30  Burts Tiki Lounge – Albuquerque NM.
May 7   The Cubhouse – Tempe AZ.* Tickets
May 13  The Rock – Tuscon AZ.

* With Sepultura, D.R.I., Hate, Belphegor, Neuraxis, Bonded By Blood, and Keep of Kalessin

(Source: Hemoptysis)

* For more info on HEMOPTYSIS, click on the links below:

HEMOPTYSIS – myspace music

HEMOPTYSIS – Facebook

HEMOPTYSIS – Official Website

Hemoptysis – Official Merchandise Store

LONG LIVE HEMOPTYSIS.

Stone.

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FAITHSEDGE – AOL Music Is Streaming Entire Debut Album Now! April 18th, 2011

Posted in arena rock, classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on April 18, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

FAITHSEDGE – The debut and self-titled album of Melodic Hard Rock and Heavy Metal from FAITHSEDGE will be released tomorrow, April 19th, 2011, on Scarlet Records. Originating from Huntington Beach, California, FAITHSEDGE is a band of Rock Music industry pros… and they’re worth every millisecond of your time to check out!  You can listen to the entire album streaming, right now, at AOL Music! Just click this link: AOL MUSIC – FAITHSEDGE

FAITHSEDGE:

Giancarlo Floridia – vocals & guitar

Fabrizio Grossi – bass

Alex De Rosso – lead guitar

Tony Morra – drums

* To read the complete album review I wrote for FAITHSEDGE, just click on the big link below:

FAITHSEDGE – Debut Album Is One Of The Year’s Best In Both Hard Rock and Heavy Metal

* For more info on FAITHSEDGE, click the links below:

FAITHSEDGE – facebook

FAITHSEDGE – Official Website


LONG LIVE FAITHSEDGE.

Stone.

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MORPHINE KILLER – “SICKENING” RELEASES APRIL 20TH, 2011! HERE’S THE METAL DETAILS…

Posted in Extreme Metal, gothic metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , on April 18, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

MORPHINE KILLER – From Garden Grove, California, MORPHINE KILLER returns! The Metal… the Extreme Metal… along with their explosively melodic single Throw It All Away are all heard on the new full-length: SICKENING. April 20th, 2011 is the release date for SICKENING via Final Breath Records.

Following the Metal success of their 2009 EP releases of Unapologetic and Nightmares, MORPHINE KILLER are back with an album of 9 songs that will leave your eardrums scorched and begging for more! SICKENING is the Metal beacon that will stop fans of Metal and Extreme Metal right in their tracks. Don’t miss out on one of 2011’s most anticipated Metal releases… serve yourself Metal right and get your copy of SICKENING!

* SICKENING will be available through Amazon.com, iTunes, Emusic, cdbaby and a few other outlets within the next few weeks.

* You can pre-order SICKENING by clicking here: MORPHINE KILLER – STORE

MORPHINE KILLER:

Belle Roka – vocals & keyboards

Eski – vocals, guitar, bass & drums

Track Listing For SICKENING:

Another Day In The Flames

Crack The Whip

Sacrilegious Celebration

An Air Of Disrespect

It’s Too Late

The Breeding Ground

Time To Destroy

Throw It All Away

New Industry

* SICKENING includes Throw It All Away, the single released in 2010. This amazing song features the astounding vocals of Belle Roka and the stellar musicianship of Eski. This melodically heavy side of Morphine Killer ignites! Throw It All Away was honored in Metal Odyssey’s Top Ten Songs of 2010! Check it out for yourself and give Throw It All Away a listen by clicking the big links below!

MORPHINE KILLER – NEW SINGLE “THROW IT ALL AWAY” IS OUT NOW AND CAN’T MISS!

Metal Odyssey’s Top Ten Songs Of 2010 And #1 Music Video!

* For more info on MORPHINE KILLER, click the links below:

MORPHINE KILLER – Official Website

MORPHINE KILLER – facebook

MORPHINE KILLER – Myspace music

IF THE FUTURE OF HEAVY MUSIC IS IN THE HANDS OF BANDS LIKE MORPHINE KILLER, THEN I CAN SLEEP WELL AT NIGHT. – Stone

LONG LIVE MORPHINE KILLER.

Stone.

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AEROSMITH – Revisiting Their Greatest Hits Album From 1980

Posted in classic rock, classic rock albums, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 16, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

AEROSMITH – If I had a buffalo nickel for every good-time moment I had, while this 1980 Greatest Hits album from Aerosmith played, I’d be a wealthy Metal lovin’ dude. Then again, the wealth of good-time memories that I’ve accumulated from listening to Aerosmith’s Greatest Hits can’t be taken away from me… like money can. Sometime in the early 80’s I bought this album due to my not owning every Aerosmith album at the time, it just made good sense to have their hits all in one shot.

If my Metal memory serves me correct, just about every keg party and date I experienced through high school had this Aerosmith album playing in the background. Granted, it was not the only cool Rock ‘N’ Roll being played, yet it was played. In all Metal honesty, I had my cassette copy of Aerosmith’s Greatest Hits in my car, straight through my college years. Whenever I listen to this album today, I can vividly picture cruising in my 1985, dark blue, Cutlass Supreme… and driving in my 1984 Dodge Charger 2.2… looking for a party and chicks. Not hot rods were my cars back then, only they got the Metal job done. Ah, Metal youth and easy daze. Um, I mean easy days.

This Aerosmith album was released back when a “greatest hits” was truly just that. These were days when bands actually had ten or more solid hits to compile for their fans both old and new. All ten of these Aerosmith songs were FM radio hits and not supposed hits, b-sides or rarities, like many of today’s greatest hits albums boast. The ten songs on this album are undisputed classics, crossing through the Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal genres. Steven Tyler’s vocals and Joe Perry’s guitar are as identifiable as Mick Jagger and Keith Richards or Steve Perry and Neal Schon. Icons all.

Little did I know back in 1980, that the legendary guitar duo of Joe Perry and Brad Whitford would not be on the following 1982 Aerosmith studio album (and seventh overall) Rock In A Hard Place. Brad Whitford did play guitar on Lightning Strikes, which is my favorite song on Rock In A Hard Place. I do remember the “buzz” being written regarding the departure of Joe Perry and Brad Whitford back then, in Hard Rock magazines such as Creem and Hit Parader. As soon as 1985 came around, Aerosmith released Done With Mirrors with Joe Perry and Brad Whitford back in the saddle again, (no pun intended).

Regardless of the time edited versions of Same Old Song and Dance, Sweet Emotion, Kings and Queens and Walk This Way, I never balked at this greatest hits. Heck, back in those days I didn’t know the damn difference anyways! As decades have passed since this album’s release date, there have been at least ten more greatest hits compilations from Aerosmith, with a 2004 revised version of this 1980 classic as well.

With more than ten million copies sold, this 1980 Greatest Hits has been certified Diamond by the RIAA. Any greatest hits album that becomes certified Diamond must be a tried and true collection of exemplary songs, which stand the test of time. At the end of my Metal day, the one real Aerosmith Greatest Hits is this memories filled and certified Diamond from 1980.

* Aerosmith’s Greatest Hits was released on Columbia Records.

Track Listing For Aerosmith’s Greatest Hits:

Dream On

Same Old Song and Dance

Sweet Emotion

Walk This Way

Last Child

Back In The Saddle

Draw The Line

Kings and Queens

Come Together

Remember (Walking In The Sand)

* For more info on AEROSMITH, click on the link below:

AEROSMITH – Official Website

LONG LIVE AEROSMITH.

Stone.

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Jamey Jasta – Announces Solo Record Due Out This Summer 2011, Song Samples Available!

Posted in Extreme Metal, hardcore music, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on April 15, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo Credit: Jeremy Saffer)

New York, NY) — JAMEY JASTA of HATEBREED & KINGDOM OF SORROW will be releasing a solo record simply titled “JASTA” this summer on July 26th, 2011 via eOne Music. A record many years in the making, this is a very different project for Jasta. He explains in his own words in the video below.

WATCH THE VIDEO WITH SONG SAMPLES BY CLICKING THIS LINK: “JASTA” – Album Announcement Teaser!

A diverse variety of guest appearances can be found on this record. Tim Lambesis (AS I LAY DYING), pro skater Mike Vallely, Philip Labonte (ALL THAT REMAINS), Randy Blythe and Mark Morton (LAMB OF GOD) and Guitar God ZAKK WYLDE just to name a few.

JAMEY will be presenting and performing at this year’s REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS AWARDS next week at the legendary Nokia Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

Jamey will be touring with KINGDOM OF SORROW this summer on the 2011 Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival. Visit Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival 2011 for ticket info, more information and breaking news.

(Source: eOne Music)

* For more info on Jamey Jasta, please visit:

JAMEY JASTA.COM

Jamey Jasta – Official Twitter

JASTA – Official Facebook

LONG LIVE JAMEY JASTA.

Stone.

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FAITHSEDGE – Debut Album Is One Of The Year’s Best In Both Hard Rock and Heavy Metal

Posted in album oriented rock, arena rock, classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, progressive metal, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 15, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

FAITHSEDGE – I’m a believer in the old adage “what’s old is new again”. In other words, Old School Hard Rock and Heavy Metal will never fall out of relevance in my Metal world. Step in please, from Southern California… Faithsedge. This band of Rock industry veterans have created a debut and self-titled album of Hard Rock meets Heavy Metal songs that are anointed with the double M. What’s the double M you query? Melodic and Memorable. Simply stated, this debut album from Faithsedge is one of the best albums thus far, that I’ve listened to in 2011. Releasing on April 19th, 2011, on Scarlet Records, this album has more melodic momentum in it’s heavy that it’s dizzying. Faithsedge will (not should) make some serious noise in the Heavy Rock world.

If a band today wants to make an impression from the very onset, it’s quality that will win over fickle Hard Rock and Metal fans. It all starts with songwriting and the songs I hear on this album are a reminder that Rock is supposed to Roll. This is an album that I’ve been listening to for a few weeks now and it only sounds better each time I push play. Before you read on any further, take out your blackberry or a post-it-note and remind yourself to buy this new Faithsedge debut album. It’s that much of a guarantee of Rockin’ satisfaction… Metal be thy name.

Giancarlo Floridia on vocals sounds every bit the seasoned pro, with many moments of Joe Lynn Turner like resonance. Hitting the high notes and exhibiting some of the best vocal harmony this side of Jon Bon Jovi, Giancarlo is top tier. Not to be mistaken, Giancarlo is as original as they come, only he’s so good I have to compare him to the finest out there. Alex De Rosso lays down more delectable chops on guitar than I can count. The leads, solos and riffs that Alex plays are abundant, making this album easily tagged as guitar driven.

Initially, I listened to the five songs that were streaming on the Faithsedge website and was extremely impressed by all of them. Then, once I listened to all eleven songs it dawned on me… this is as good as it gets when it comes to a complete album of quality songs. No, there is not even a hint of a bugger on this Faithsedge album. AOR and Classic Rock has it’s roots buried within the sound that Faithsedge has captured here, while never compromising on relevant Hard Rock and arena style Heavy Metal. If there ever was an album tailor-made for a Summertime psyche-you-out experience, then this is it and let the good times roll!

With up-tempo as a constant on this album, a song such as That’s What Happened To Us comes across to my ears as: ready for radio airplay now. Faithsedge is not lacking in the accessibility department when it comes to their songs. You will be searching in a vain effort to find any cheese-its illuminating from this album. The heavy thumper of World Keeps Falling Down appeals from both it’s speed and Power Metal flair, while visions of Faithsedge playing this song in an arena or festival one day doesn’t seem that inappropriate in my Metal mind.

I spoke to Giancarlo Floridia recently, to characterize him as a musician who is grounded while being ever enthusiastic about the future of Faithsedge is appropriate. “I’m really fortunate, going from being homeless at one point to where I am now”. Giancarlo continued: “I’m fortunate and I appreciate everything that is happening, I’m a singer that realizes I can lose everything”. “Things happen in our lives and we have to get through them. Even the dark stuff needs to be addressed, I write, sing and play these songs because I want to help people get through tough times”.

I can’t help liking a musician such as Giancarlo, especially when he added: “The lyrics represent what was going on in my life on a day to day basis. These songs are about my story, my comeback in life. Hopefully, people can relate to it. I don’t party or do drugs. Paul Stanley and Joe Lynn Turner are two big heros of mine and I want to be where they are in another twenty years”.

“To take in the overall sound of the album, you have to listen to the whole thing through”, is how Giancarlo characterizes the many Rock genre tags that have been used to describe Faithsedge. “There was so much special stuff happening while making this record, from Tony’s drumming to Alex just doing it with his solo’s! I don’t know how they did it, they just did it!”

The songwriters for Faithsedge are Giancarlo and Fabrizio Grossi. “Fab” as Giancarlo calls him, is a world renowned bass player and record producer. Giancarlo affectionately refers to “Fab” as “The Godfather” when talking about his experience working with and listening to his advice. The appreciation and respect that Giancarlo has for “Fab” pours out of him with admirable sincerity.

Fans of 1980’s Hard Rock, Arena Rock and Heavy Metal should feel quite content as they listen to Faithsedge. Any fan of Rock who wants a complete album of songs, with no fatty acids thrown in, should be all over this Faithsedge debut. This band has all the melodically Hard and Heavy credentials to share the stage and open for the likes of Whitesnake, Bon Jovi, KISS, Edguy or Journey. It makes perfect Metal sense to me. Faithsedge proves with their debut album of immensely contagious songs that they are for real and they belong. I’m on board for this melodic Rockin’ ride with Faithsedge… I hope countless others will join me.

Metal Odyssey gives FAITHSEDGE 5 out of 5 Metal Fists!

FAITHSEDGE:

Giancarlo Floridia – vocals & guitar

Fabrizio Grossi – bass

Alex De Rosso – lead guitar

Tony Morra – drums

Track Listing For FAITHSEDGE:

Another Chance

There’s Still Hope

Let It End This Way

World Keeps Falling Down

Even If

Hold On

Take You Away

Somewhere In Your Heart

That’s What Happened To Us

Faith-Anne

When It Rains

* For more info on FAITHSEDGE, click the links below:

FAITHSEDGE – Official Website

FAITHSEDGE – facebook

SCARLET RECORDS

LONG LIVE FAITHSEDGE.

Stone.

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AMON AMARTH – U.S. Tour To Commence Today! April 14th, 2011

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on April 14, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo Credit: Steve Brown)

Melodic Death Metal titans, AMON AMARTH, today kick off their long-anticipated near two-week run of live dates in support of their latest studio offering: Surtur Rising. Dubbed “An Evening With AMON AMARTH,” this special tour will find the band performing two sets each night with no openers. The first set will feature the band performing Surtur Rising in its entirety while the second will boast a collection of songs from previous releases.  The Viking-inspired mayhem will begin tonight in Chicago at The Bottom Lounge.

Released on March 29 via Metal Blade Records, Surtur Rising has topped the charts both domestically and abroad and continues to reap praise from critics and fans around the globe for its sheer debilitating heaviness. Said Decibel of the offering: “…it’s a pleasure to learn one of metal’s most consistent bands remains as indefatigable as ever.” L.A. Music Blog called Surtur Rising, “the epitome of what death metal should be: ferocious and crushing. It’s possibly the band’s best work to date,” Blabbermouth compared the record to being, “…bludgeoned by your favorite warhammer. Definitely a contender for this year’s best,” while Metal Bite commended the record saying, “Surtur Rising is not just an album, it’s a fantastic tale that’s presented with honor and dignity. This is some of the band’s most dynamic work yet and I cannot emphasize enough how you need to pick up a copy when this is released!” Metal Curse called it,  “absolutely amazing from beginning to end,” while Crave Metal put it simply: “EPIC!”

Commented guitarist Olavi Mikkonen: “We can’t thank our fans enough for showing their appreciation of our music and making this album our most successful release to date. We are looking forward to performing the songs from Surtur Rising live and delivering a powerful, crushing set! See you on tour, cheers!”

An Evening With AMON AMARTH

4/14/2011 @ The Bottom Lounge – Chicago, IL

4/15/2011 @ Station 4 – Saint Paul, MN

4/16/2011 @ Granada Theater – Lawrence, KS

4/17/2011 @ The Summit Music Hall – Denver, CO

4/19/2011 @ Wonder Ballroom – Portland, OR

4/20/2011 @ Showbox Sodo – Seattle, WA

4/22/2011 @ The Regency – San Francisco, CA

4/23/2011 @ Ace Of Spades – Sacramento, CA

4/24/2011 @ House of Blues – West Hollywood, CA

4/25/2011 @ Nile Theatre – Mesa, AZ

4/27/2011 @ White Rabbit – San Antonio, TX

4/29/2011 @ Culture Room – Fort Lauderdale, FL

4/30/2011 @ Beacham Theatre – Orlando, FL

5/01/2011 @ Masquerade – Atlanta, GA

5/02/2011 @ Jaxx – Springfield, VA

5/03/2011 @ Peabody’s – Cleveland, OH

5/05/2011 @ Best Buy Theater – New York, NY

5/06/2011 @ Theatre Of Living Arts – Philadelphia, PA

5/07/2011 @ Paradise Rock Club – Boston, MA

(Source: Earsplit PR)

* For more info on AMON AMARTH, click on the links below:

AMON AMARTH – Official Website

http://www.myspace.com/amonamarth

http://www.facebook.com/AmonAmarthBand

http://twitter.com/amonamarthband

LONG LIVE AMON AMARTH.

Stone.

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The Human Abstract – Release A Second New Music Video: “Patterns”

Posted in Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, metalcore, Music, progressive metal, progressive rock, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on April 13, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(New York, NY) — THE HUMAN ABSTRACT have released another brand new video for their song  “Patterns” off their latest record “Digital Veil”.”This was the first of two we shot in one day with director Scott Hansen.  We were lucky enough to land an amazing location for the shoot at the historic Pacific Electric building located in Downtown Los Angeles. It felt like the song and the setting made a perfect match for a classic performance music video,” says front man Travis Richter.

Watch the new video via the bands official Facebook page by clicking the link below. Just click “Patterns” on the left menu once there:

http://www.facebook.com/thehumanabstract

The band recently announced a headlining run this spring entitled “ALTERNATIVE PRESS PRESENTS THE ‘PULL ME FROM THE GALLOWS TOUR.’” Support duties will hail from SCALE THE SUMMIT, THIS OR THE APOCALYPSE, LETLIVE, NO BRAGGING RIGHTS and ACROSS THE SUN. Co-sponsors include: Bleeding Star Clothing, Skelanimals and Ernie Ball Guitars & Strings. VIP Ticket packages will be announce shortly. Visit their brand new Facebook Application to keep up on the latest news about the tour, just click the link below:

http://www.facebook.com/thehumanabstract

THE HUMAN ABSTRACT released their newest full length record entitled “Digital Veil” last month to much critical acclaim.

“The result is a re-tuned, tightened and reinvigorated sound that’s going to make a serious impact on the modern Metal scene,” says Metalsucks.com.

The record is available for preview or purchase via iTunes by clicking the link below:

http://bit.ly/eXv7Rb.

PULL ME FROM THE GALLOWS TOUR:

FRI, MAY 13, 2011 ANAHEIM, CA @ Chain Reaction (w/ Elitist)

SAT, MAY 14, 2011 PHOENIX, AZ @ The Underground

MON, MAY 16, 2011 LUBBOCK, TX @ Jake’s Sports Cafe

TUE, MAY 17, 2011 DALLAS, TX @ Trees

WED, MAY 18, 2011 SAN ANTONIO, TX @ The White Rabbit

THU, MAY 19, 2011 HOUSTON, TX @ Numbers

FRI, MAY 20, 2011 PENSACOLA, FL @ The Handlebar

SAT, MAY 21, 2011 WEST PALM BEACH, FL @ The Pit

SUN, MAY 22, 2011 JACKSONVILLE, FL @ The Pit

TUE, MAY 24, 2011 DOUGLASVILLE, GA @ The 7 Venue

WED, MAY 25, 2011 RALEIGH, NC @ Volume 11

FRI, MAY 27, 2011 SPRINGFIELD, VA @ Jaxx

SAT, MAY 28, 2011 BRONX, NY @ The Point

SUN, MAY 29, 2011 MANCHESTER, NH @ Rocko’s

MON, MAY 30, 2011 ALLENTOWN, PA @ Crocodile Rock Cafe

TUE, MAY 31, 2011 TORONTO, ON  @ The Wreckroom

WED, JUN 1, 2011 CLEVELAND, OH @ Peabody’s

THU, JUN 2, 2011 COLUMBUS, OH @ The Seven Venue

FRI, JUN 3, 2011 TOLEDO, OH @ Headliners

SAT, JUN 4, 2011 JOLIET, IL @ Mojoe’s

SUN, JUN 5, 2011 ST. LOUIS, MO @ Fubar

MON, JUN 6, 2011 OMAHA, NE @ Sokol Underground

WED, JUN 8, 2011 DENVER, CO @ The Marquis Theater

THU, JUN 9, 2011 SALT LAKE CITY, UT @ In The Venue

FRI, JUN 10, 2011 BOISE, ID @ Mardi Gras

SAT, JUN 11, 2011 SPOKANE, WA @ The Hop

SUN, JUN 12, 2011 SEATTLE,WA @ Studio Seven

MON, JUN 13, 2011 PORTLAND, OR @ Branx

TUE, JUN 14, 2011 LOS GATOS, CA @ The Venue

THU, JUN 16, 2011 CAMARILLO, CA @ Rock City (w/ Elitist)

FRI, JUN 17, 2011 WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA @ The Whisky A Go Go (w/ Elitist)

SAT, JUN 18, 2011 SAN DIEGO, CA @ SOMA (w/ Elitist)

THE HUMAN ABSTRACT is: Travis Richter (vocals), Henry Selva (bass), Dean Herrera (guitar), Brett Powell (drums) and A.J. Minette (guitar).

(Source: eOne Music)

LONG LIVE THE HUMAN ABSTRACT.

Stone.

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Revolver Magazine’s Hell Hath No Fury Tour 2011- Dates and Venues Listed!

Posted in concerts, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal tours, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock festivals, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 12, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Revolver Presents Hell Hath No Fury Tour 2011 – Beginning on April 22, 2011, at the Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana, California, the Hell Hath No Fury Tour begins! This Revolver Magazine sponsored tour spotlights their chosen “Hottest Chicks In Hard Rock” with: In This Moment (Maria Brink), System Divide (Miri Milman), Straight Line Stitch (Alexis Brown) and Sister Sin (Liv Jagrell). Each band has their own unique, talented and beautiful front woman to lead the Hard Rock and Metal charge on this Hell Hath No Fury Tour! Check the dates and venues below to see if this Hell Hath No Fury Tour is coming near you!

Revolver Presents: Hell Hath No Fury Tour 2011

04/22/11 – Galaxy Theatre – Santa Ana, CA

04/23/11 – Jerry’s – Bakersfield, CA

04/24/11 – Ace Of Spades – Sacramento, CA

04/25/11 – The Alley – Sparks, NV

04/27/11 – Knitting Factory – Boise, ID

04/28/11 – Studio Seven – Seattle, WA

04/29/11 – Bossanova Ballroom – Portland, OR

04/30/11 – The A Club – Spokane, WA

05/01/11 – The Railyard – Billings, MT

05/03/11 – The House Of Bricks – Des Moines, IA

05/05/11 – The Annex – Madison, WI

05/06/11 – The Intersection – Grand Rapids, MI

05/07/11 – Penny Rd Pub – Barrington, IL

05/08/11 – Boney Jones – Evansville, IN

05/09/11 – Downtown Music – Little Rock, AR

05/10/11 – The Bottleneck – Lawrence, KS

05/11/11 – The Marquee – Tulsa, OK

05/13/11 – Launchpad – Albuquerque, NM

05/15/11 – The Orpheum – Flagstaff, AZ

(Source for tour dates: Metal Blade News Update 4/12/11)

* For more info on the bands and tour, click the links below:

REVOLVER MAGAZINE

eOne Music – facebook

VICTORY METAL.COM

METAL BLADE RECORDS

Century Media Records

IN THIS MOMENT – myspace music

Straight Line Stitch – myspace music

SYSTEM DIVIDE – myspace music

SISTER SIN – Official Website

LONG LIVE THE HOTTEST CHICKS IN HARD ROCK and METAL.

Stone.

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THE OCEAN – Kick Off North American Tour On April 11, 2011!

Posted in Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal tours, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, progressive metal, progressive rock, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 11, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

German atmospheric Progressive Metal collective and Metal Blade Recording artists, THE OCEAN,  today kick off a month-long North American tour! The band will perform three headlining shows beginning tonight at Jaxx in Springfield, VA before joining “The Hypersleep Dialogues Trek, ” with headliners Between The Buried And Me, Job For A Cowboy and Cephalic Carnage on select dates. Presented by Peter Says Denim, in association with Guitar World & MetalSucks.net, “The Hypersleep Dialogues Trek”will begin in Farmingdale, New York at The Crazy Donkey, include a stop at this year’s New England Metal And Hardcore fest in Worcester, Massachusetts and hit over two dozen cities before making a final stop in Ashville, North Carolina at The Orange Peel.

Said guitarist Robin Staps of the tour: “We’re excited to be back in the U.S. It’s been three years since our last tour over here with Kylesa, Intronaut, Lair Of The Minotaur and Withered. We’ve been wanting to come back ever since, but it’s just so difficult for a European band to work out tour logistics and working visas are really expensive for us… But we finally made it! Looking forward to these three upcoming headlining shows where we’re gonna play full 90-minute sets, and I’m sure the BTBAM tour afterwards will be equally great, though shorter set times for us. Looking forward to see you all out there somewhere!”

THE OCEAN Headlining Shows

4/11/2011 Jaxx – Springfield, VA

4/12/2011 Sonar – Baltimore, MD

4/13/2011 Public Assembly – Brooklyn, NY

Peter Says Denim Presents Between The Buried And Me In association with Guitar World & MetalSucks.net With Job For A Cowboy, The Ocean & Cephalic Carnage (*on select dates)

4/15/2011 The Crazy Donkey – Farmingdale, NY

4/16/2011 The Palladium – Worcester, MA (New England Metal And Hardcore Festival)

4/17/2011 Chameleon Club – Lancaster, PA

4/18/2011 Atlar Bar – Pittsburgh, PA

4/19/2011 Club Infinity – Williamsville, NY

4/20/2011 Le National – Montreal, QC

4/21/2011 Opera House – Toronto, ON

4/22/2011 Headliner’s – Toledo, OH

4/23/2011 The Crofoot Ballroom – Pontiac, MI

4/25/2011 Eagles Ballroom – Milwaukee, WI

4/26/2011 Granada – Lawrence, KS

4/27/2011 Summit Music Hall – Denver, CO *

4/29/2011 Rickshaw Theatre – Vancouver, BC

4/30/2011 El Corazon – Seattle, WA *

5/01/2011 Hawthorne Theatre – Portland, OR *

5/03/2011 Ace Of Clubs – Sacramento, CA *

5/04/2011 Slim’s – San Francisco, CA *

5/05/2011 Glasshouse Music Hall – Pomona, CA *

5/06/2011 Soma – San Diego, CA *

5/07/2011 Nile Theatre – Mesa, AZ *

5/09/2011 The Door – Dallas, TX

5/10/2011 The Marquee – Tulsa, OK

5/11/2011 New Daisy Theatre – Memphis, TN

5/12/2011 The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA

5/13/2011 Rockettown – Nashville, TN

5/14/2011 The Orange Peel – Asheville, NC

THE OCEAN will be touring in support of their 2010 separately-issued double album: Heliocentric and Anthropocentric (released in April and November 2010 respectively). This mammoth conceptual effort took almost two years to complete. From a lyrical and artistic point of view, the albums represent a fundamental and philosophical critique of Christianity. Both albums scored rave reviews worldwide, including Album Of The Month in Metal Hammer Germany, Italy and Greece, and a cover feature in the December issue of Metal Hammer UK’s/Subterranea (their Extreme Metal supplement).

(Source: Earsplit PR)

* For more info on THE OCEAN, click on the links below:

http://www.theoceancollective.com/heliocentric

http://www.metalblade.com/theocean

http://www.facebook.com/theoceancollective

http://www.myspace.com/theoceancollective

http://twitter.com/OceanCollective

http://www.youtube.com/theoceancollective

http://www.metalblade.com

LONG LIVE THE OCEAN.

Stone.

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Hemoptysis – Announce European Release Details and Bonus!

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on April 11, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

HEMOPTYSIS – Phoenix Arizona Metallers Hemoptysis have announced that their debut album “Misanthropic Slaughter” will be available in stores throughout Europe on May 27, 2011.

The album is being released throughout Europe via Rock It Up Records and the European version will include the music video for “Shadow of Death” as a bonus feature. A list of retailers will be available soon. Digital copies can be purchased at this location: Hemoptysis – Official Merchandise Store

In other Hemoptysis news, the band are gearing up to shoot a new music video for an as of yet – undisclosed song from “Misanthropic Slaughter”.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Friday, April 29, 2011 @ The Drunken Lass – Prescott, Arizona

Saturday, April 30, 2011 @ Burts Tiki Lounge – Albuquerque, New Mexico

Saturday, May 7, 2011 @ The Clubhouse – Tempe, Arizona*

* With Sepultura, D.R.I., Hate, Belphegor, Neuraxis, Bonded By Blood and Keep of Kalessin. Tickets are available for $25. Call or txt: 480-570-7599 for free delivery.

* For more info on HEMOPTYSIS, click on the links below:

HEMOPTYSIS – Official Website

HEMOPTYSIS – myspace music

HEMOPTYSIS – Facebook

HEMOPTYSIS – bandcamp page

Rock It Up / IceWarrior Records

LONG LIVE HEMOPTYSIS.

Stone.

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KITTIE – BEGIN RECORDING NEW ALBUM!

Posted in Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , on April 11, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(New York, NY) — Veteran all-girl Metal outfit KITTIE are headed into the studio next week to begin work on their new, yet to be titled record. What promises to be a grittier record than their previous effort “In the Black,” front woman Morgan Lander offers her own words.

“We have been working exceptionally hard these cold winter months, crafting what is to be our 6th full length release, and our second for eOne.  In some cases these new songs are faster, darker and much more sinister than our previous release. It contains some of the most difficult and personal subject matter I have had the pleasure (or displeasure) of writing.”

Once again the band will enlist the producing talent of Siegfried “Siggy” Meier at Beach Road Studios in Goderich Ontario, Canada. “The girls have written some incredible and personal songs this time around. They’re heavy as shit and relentless.  It’s a pleasure and an honor to be doing another record with one of the best Metal bands of our time,” says Meier. The new record will be released later this summer.

KITTIE released “In the Black” in 2009 to critical acclaim, “Kittie’s fifth record sees the gals back in heavier form, with Morgan’s much-improved clean vocals soaring alongside mountain-sized riffage.” says Revolver Magazine. Blabbermouth.net even hailed the record as the “biggest Metal shock of the year.” The girls spent the next two years on successful tours with acts like DEVILDRIVER, ICP and last year’s THRASH AND BURN Tour.

KITTIE is: Morgan Lander (guitar), Mercedes Lander (drums), Tara McLeod (guitar) and Ivy Vujic (bass).

(Source: eOne Metal)

* For more info on KITTIE, click on the links below:

KITTIE – Official Website

TWITTER – http://twitter.com/officialkittie

FACEBOOK – http://www.facebook.com/kittiepage

MYSPACE – http://www.myspace.com/officialkittie

LONG LIVE KITTIE.

Stone.

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VOLBEAT UPDATE: Win a Limited Edition Autographed Poster! U.S. Tour Dates Listed and 16 Dollars Video!

Posted in concerts, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock and roll, rock music, rock music news, rockabilly with tags , , , , , , , , , , on April 9, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Volbeat is in the middle of their first U.S. headlining tour, which is receiving rave reviews. In addition to giving away tickets to some of the U.S. shows via their Facebook, fans can now access the Volbeat Poster tab and enter to in an autographed limited edition tour poster!

Volbeat also has a new music video for 16 Dollars! Watch it here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tR_-PAWM9es&feature=channel_video_title

Volbeat’s video for “16 Dollars” is 1959 aesthetics wrapped up in smoke, fire and twisted love. The piece follows the adventures of the skullrider with beautiful images of metalbilly madness, created by Plastickid and featuring Jakob Øelund of Taggy Tones.

Part computer graphics, part blue  screen and part real life, the video for 16 dollars stays true to Volbeat’s fashion – undeniable rock n’ roll action.

Volbeat’s latest album, Beyond Hell/ Above Heaven debuted at #1 across Europe, reached #1 on CMJ’s Loud Rock chart, debuted in the top 10 on the iTunes Rock chart and was #5 on Revolver Magazine’s best albums of 2010 list.

Volbeat will also be performing at Revolver’s Golden God Awards, where they are nominated for Album of the Year.

Check out Volbeat on:

VOLBEAT – Official Website

Facebook

Twitter

Beyond Hell / Above Heaven is available on iTunes | Amazon

CURRENT U.S. TOUR DATES:

4/09 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues

4/10 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues

4/13 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues

4/14 – Houston, TX @ Scout Bar

4/16 – Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage Theatre

4/17 – Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House of Blues Orlando

4/22 – Baltimore, MD @ Sonar

4/23 – Clifton Park, NY @ Northern Lights

4/25 – Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club

4/27 – NY, NY @ Irving Plaza

(Source: Universal Motown Republic Group)

LONG LIVE VOLBEAT.

Stone.

1 Comment »

9 Chambers – Hard Rock Supergroup Of: Greg Hampton, Ed Mundell, Jorgen Carlsson and Vinny Appice!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, hard rock albums, Heavy Metal, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on April 8, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(left: Ed Mundell, right: Greg Hampton)

(Photo credit: Karen Murphy Mundell)

9 CHAMBERS – Anytime I have a conversation with multi-instrumentalist and producer Greg Hampton, he will light up like the Time Square ball on New Years Eve when Classic Rock and Hard Rock is talked about. Greg has assembled a new band, a “supergroup” if you will, that has more reverence and experience in their Rock and Roll veins for that Classic Hard Rock sound than you can shake a Metal stick at. 9 Chambers makeup has four star musicians who know a thing or two about playing Classic Hard Rock, not to mention Heavy Metal as well. With 9 Chambers, it’s a Hard Rock venture that I’m eagerly anticipating.

Check out the lineup for 9 Chambers: Vocalist and guitarist Greg Hampton (Alice Cooper, The New Czars, Lita Ford), guitarist Ed Mundell (ex-Monster Magnet), Jorgen Carlsson on bass (Gov’t Mule) and Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heavn & Hell, DIO) on drums. Whoa. Greg Hampton was not kidding around when he told me he was putting together a new band that would psyche out the Hard Rock community! It doesn’t get any more legit than this lineup… Metal be thy name. You can listen to 4 song samples from 9 Chambers by clicking here: 9 Chambers – Audio Samples

Greg Hampton is aiming for an August 2011 release date for the upcoming debut album from 9 Chambers, while negotiating a record deal with management. Greg states they have close to twenty songs written, so there are obviously many cool choices to be made for their debut album. Greg is enthused that he and Ed share common ground on what “old school” Rock music they both listen to, with Free, Armageddon and Captain Beyond, to name a few. The 1983 Black Sabbath release of Born Again has been getting worn out from playing in Greg’s car as of late too, further noting where his heavy music interest lies.

“Some guest drummers of recognition will be on board to finish off a few songs”, Greg added. On what to expect from the Hard Rock sound of 9 Chambers, Greg stated: “We wanted to stick to our original vision as to how the Hard Rock of 9 Chambers should sound, throw in a Soundgarden variable in the equation with both a 90’s and Crooked Vulture vibe to it. There’s a little Stoner vibe happening as well. This album is a lot less progressive than what I’ve done in the past. There are no synths or drum loops. It’s a purist approach of four guys playing Hard Rock”.

* For more info on 9 CHAMBERS, click on the links below:

9 Chambers – Reverbnation

9 Chambers – Official Website

9 CHAMBERS – Official facebook

LONG LIVE 9 CHAMBERS.

Stone.

5 Comments »

HEMOPTYSIS – A Metal Odyssey Interview With Masaki Murashita

Posted in Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, interviews, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music interviews, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , , , , on April 7, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo credit: Eyeful Images Photographic Arts)

HEMOPTYSIS – Masaki Murashita is the founder, lead singer and guitarist for Hemoptysis, a Thrash Metal band from Phoenix, Arizona. Masaki wears a lot of hats these days, while making certain the world is being properly introduced to Hemoptysis. The blending of Extreme Metal styles is what makes Hemoptysis stand-out from the Metal pack. With some Death Metal grooves and occasional shades of Blackened vocal tones from Masaki, these attributes just seem to make the Thrash he and his band have created all the more relevant and unique in 2011. The overriding “Old School” Thrash style and sound of Hemoptysis is the driving force behind the songs heard on their debut full-length – Misanthropic Slaughter.

The “do-it-yourself” work ethic of this band, led by Masaki, released their debut album independently on March 8th, 2011. Since then, the critical response from all over the globe has been nothing short of exhilarating for a band that has justifiably earned it. Masaki is young and driven, with a professional air about him that I cannot help admire. This is a musician in Metal that has a keen sense of awareness for the business side of the recording industry. At the end of the Metal day, it is Masaki’s musical proficiency that he combines with his band’s impressive Metal skills that has left me rather awestruck, ever since my first listen to Misanthropic Slaughter.

I recall wondering and writing, how long can Hemoptysis be left unsigned to a label? This band could not be overlooked for long, however. On March 8th, 2011, the very day that Misanthropic Slaughter was released, it was announced that Rock It Up/IceWarrior Records from Germany signed a licensing deal with Hemoptysis. Metal be thy name, I felt proud for Masaki and his band. It’s a deserved leap forward into eventual Metal stardom. Hemoptysis has Metal stock that is rising fast, so my best advice is to invest your Metal time and money wisely and pick up Misanthropic Slaughter… you surely want to be a part of Thrash Metal and Metal history in the making.

Masaki Murashita is one cool Metal gentleman to speak with. I cannot resist supporting his Metal career and insanely impressive band known as Hemoptysis. Here is what Masaki had to say:

Stone: Just how did Hemoptysis evolve?

Masaki: Travis and I met through a mutual friend in April of 2007.  We started the band in June of 2007 when I found a larger practice space and another guitarist.  We got Sunao to play bass for us in early 2008.  Initially, I wasn’t the singer.  We had a different singer for a few months. After the original singer left, I took over on vocals.  We went through a few lead guitarists until we got Ryan Miller, who is also in a band called Excessive Bleeding.

Stone: How proud are you and the guys for getting signed to Rock It Up/IceWarrior Records?

Masaki: We all are very proud of it. We finally found a label that believes in us. They offered the most fair deal by far and it showed long term interest in our career. We are truly honored and we will continue working hard.

Stone: Metallica “Master Of Puppets” versus Slayer “Reign In Blood”. Which album is better and why? No, you can’t give a “tie” for an answer! (LOL)

Masaki: It’s a tough question since I grew up listening to both albums, but I’d say “Master of Puppets” because that record definitely inspired me to play Metal.

Stone: How have the live gigs been going for you? Tell us about your charity gigs too!

Masaki: It’s been really fun! The charity gig was especially awesome simply because the venue used to be a church and playing songs like “Who Needs A Shepherd?” was just priceless.

Stone: Can you update us on your family and friends well being in Japan?

Masaki: They are all doing well. Thank you! Japanese people are strong. Though it may take some time, they are working really hard to bring back their normal life.

Stone: What do you feel is lacking in today’s Heavy Metal climate when it comes to marketing and promotion?

Masaki: Team work. Everybody needs to work together to keep the scene. Bands can’t expect to get their name out and bring people to their shows without working hard. Same thing to fans. If you would like to see your favorite bands, you need to show them support by spreading the word and buying their merchandise and music. Promoters, venues, and labels also need to do their job and promote the shows to support the bands and the scene. Everybody is becoming greedy nowadays, but at the end of the day, we all need to survive and work together to sustain.

Stone: What inner and outside influence(s) did you and the band draw from, to write and record such a kick ass and Old School album of Metal?

Masaki: I have heavy influence from old school Thrash. Our drummer, Travis, and our lead guitarist, Ryan, are death metal guys. Our bassist, Sunao, listens to everything, including non-Metal stuff. We all have different backgrounds and that makes our music unique when everybody’s ideas blend together.

Stone: Tell the world… what veteran band do you feel Hemoptysis should open up for on a major tour and why?

Masaki: Megadeth, Carcass, Exodus, Testament to name a few. Those bands are just a few of the core influences of our sound and we think the people who are into those bands would like us.

Stone: Are you guys currently writing new Metal material for the next album?

Masaki: Yes. We are already working on the material for the next record.

Stone: With so much critical praise, from so many outlets, for “Misanthropic Slaughter”, are you shocked, knew it was coming or just humbled?

Masaki: We weren’t sure what was going to happen.  We knew we liked it but we weren’t 100% sure what people would think.  A lot of people liked our EP, “Who Needs A Shepherd?,” and gave it good reviews, so we were pretty sure people would like this better since the quality of the recording is so much better.  We also grew as musicians and switched to an even better lead guitarist, so we felt pretty confident about good reviews coming in.  We consider ourselves pretty humble, though.

Stone: What band that you’ve seen perform live left you awestruck?

Masaki: D.R.I. We opened for them last September and we were amazed how much their fans love them. The crowd was nuts! We’ve never seen that crazy of a pit and crowd at the venue in which we played. Much respect to them for being one of the most legendary “Do It Yourself (DIY)” bands.

Stone: Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans as we close out?

Masaki: If you like our music, please buy our music and support us. We would like to tour and play enough cities, both in the U.S. and abroad, only we cannot do this without our fans supporting us.

HEMOPTYSIS:

Masaki Murashita – vocals & guitar

Ryan Miller – lead guitar

Sunao Arai – bass

Travis Thune – drums

* For more info on HEMOPTYSIS, click on the links below:

HEMOPTYSIS – Official Website

HEMOPTYSIS – myspace music

HEMOPTYSIS – Facebook

HEMOPTYSIS – bandcamp page

Rock It Up / IceWarrior Records

* Metal Odyssey reminds those who want to help out our great friends in Japan, to click on the link below for assistance:

http://www.google.com/intl/en/crisisresponse/japanquake2011.html

LONG LIVE HEMOPTYSIS.

LONG LIVE MASAKI MURASHITA.

Stone.

6 Comments »

AMON AMARTH: “Surtur Rising” First-Week Album Sales Revealed

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, Heavy Metal, heavy metal albums, melodic death metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 6, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

Surtur Rising, the latest studio album from Swedish Death Metal tyrants, AMON AMARTH sold approximately 15,000 copies in the United States landing the band the #34 on the Billboard Top 200, #6 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums, #1 on the Billboard Top Hard Music Albums and #10 on the Indy/Small Chain Core Store Chart.  The record entered Austria’s Top 40 Chart at #12 and Switzerland’s Top 100 at #20. In Germany, Surtur Rising sold over 14,000 units, entered the Top 100 Chart at #8 and is in the official Media Mark Charts at #14 in its second week.

In addition, Surtur Rising came in at #19 on Canada’s Top 200 Chart, #5 on the Independent Charts and #2 on Hard Charts. The record is #1 in Canada on iTunes’ Top Metal albums, and also charted on the following: #16 Top 200, #3 Top Rock and #1 Top Metal. In the U.S., the record ranked in at #2 on iTunes’ Rock Album chart and #20 in the Top 200 (overall album chart).

Released on March 29 via Metal Blade Records, Surtur Rising is AMON AMARTH’s eighth studio offering in a winding discography that’s helped shape the very face of epic, Viking-inspired death metal. Named in tribute to Surtur, leader of the fire giants of Muspelheim (“flame land”) and the oldest being in the nine worlds of Norse mythology, the record was recorded, mixed and mastered at Fascination Street Studios Örebro, Sweden with Jens Bogren and bears the striking cover art by Tom Thiel.

The mammoth long-player has been reaping incredible praise from critics nationwide. In a 9/10 review, Blabbermouth compared Surtur Rising to being,  “…bludgeoned by your favorite warhammer. Definitely a contender for this year’s best.” Fearnet called it a, “feast of world-destroying metal on par with the band’s career-defining 2008 release Twilight Of The Thunder God,” while Decibel Magazine commended the band noting, “it’s a pleasure to learn one of metal’s most consistent bands remains as indefatigable as ever.” Pop Matters called the record “…another momentous album for AMON AMARTH, leaving no doubt that they are one of the best Metal bands in the world!,” and Live-Metal agreed: “…one of the strongest, most massively heavy Death Metal bands around…”

In conjunction with Surtur Rising‘s release, AMON AMARTH will make their way to the U.S.  for a near two-week stretch of live dates later this month. Dubbed “An Evening With AMON AMARTH,” this special trek will find the band performing two separate sets each night: one which will feature Surtur Rising in its entirety and another boasting a collection of songs from previous releases. Confirmed dates below:

An Evening With AMON AMARTH

4/14/2011 The Bottom Lounge – Chicago, IL

4/15/2011 Station 4 – Saint Paul, MN

4/16/2011 Granada Theater – Lawrence, KS

4/17/2011 The Summit Music Hall – Denver, CO

4/19/2011 Wonder Ballroom – Portland, OR

4/20/2011 Showbox Sodo – Seattle, WA

4/22/2011 The Regency – San Francisco, CA

4/23/2011 Ace Of Spades – Sacramento, CA

4/24/2011 House of Blues – West Hollywood, CA

4/25/2011 Nile Theatre – Mesa, AZ

4/27/2011 White Rabbit – San Antonio, TX

4/29/2011 Culture Room – Fort Lauderdale, FL

4/30/2011 Beacham Theatre – Orlando, FL

5/01/2011 Masquerade – Atlanta, GA

5/02/2011 Jaxx – Springfield, VA

5/03/2011 Peabody’s – Cleveland, OH

5/05/2011 Best Buy Theater – New York, NY

5/06/2011 Theatre Of Living Arts – Philadelphia, PA

5/07/2011 Paradise Rock Club – Boston, MA

(Source: Earsplit PR)

* For more info on AMON AMARTH, click on the links below:

AMON AMARTH – Official Website

http://www.myspace.com/amonamarth

http://www.facebook.com/AmonAmarthBand

http://twitter.com/amonamarthband

LONG LIVE AMON AMARTH.

Stone.

1 Comment »

Scott Columbus – Rest In Peace

Posted in Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , , on April 5, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

SCOTT COLUMBUS – Numerous reports have been made, from credible sources such as the official website for MANOWAR, stating the sad news of Scott Columbus (ex-member/drummer for MANOWAR) passing away on Monday, April 4th, 2011. Scott Columbus was 54 years old. Metal Odyssey extends condolences to the family, friends, ex-band mates and fans of Scott Columbus.

As it is stated on the official website of MANOWAR:

“It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our brother Scott Columbus. Scott Columbus was a rare talent and equally a rare individual. He was a father, a friend and a brother of metal. All of the great moments we spent together in the studio, in our homes and on the road are burnished in our hearts and memories forever. These words are spoken with heavy hearts but we have the comfort of knowing that he is in a good place and at peace. He will never be forgotten. Your family and brothers, Joey, Eric, Karl, Donnie and all at Magic Circle Music”.

My thoughts are: As the past few years (and time) have proven, our Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal heros can never be taken for granted. I am shocked at this news of Scott Columbus passing away and certainly I am not alone. Such a talented drummer that I and countless fans worldwide enjoyed listening to and watching. May Scott Columbus rest in peace.  – Stone

Click the link below for the official MANOWAR website:

MANOWAR – Official Website

Rest In Peace, Scott Columbus.

Stone.

5 Comments »

Cannibal Corpse’s Pat O’Brien Steps In As Guest Guitarist For Slayer

Posted in Death Metal, Extreme Metal, guitarists, Heavy Metal, metal music, metal odyssey, Music, rock music, rock music news, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 5, 2011 by Metal Odyssey

(Photo: Metal Blade Records)

As taken from the Metal Blade Records News Update, April 5th, 2011:

Cannibal Corpse guitarist Pat O’Brien will fill in for Exodus’ Gary Holt when Holt leaves the Slayer European tour to play with his own band Exodus at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago, Chile on April 4. Holt has been filling in for Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman since the tour kicked off February 26 in Australia.

Holt’s last show with Slayer will be April 4 in Padova, Italy; O’Brien will join the band for the April 6 show in Croatia, and will finish the European dates with Slayer that wrap up on April 14 in Holland.

Hanneman has amazed his doctors with his speedy recovery from an infection thought to have been caused by a spider bite. Following surgery on his right arm, he continues his physical therapy and has already been practicing with his guitar.

Remaining dates for Slayer’s European tour are as follows:

APRIL 2011:

06 – Zagreb Arena, Zagreb, Crotia (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

07 – Gasometer, Vienna, Austria (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

08 – Arena Budapest, Budapest Hungary (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

10 – Prague O2 Arena, Prague Czech Republic (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

11 – Lodz Sportshall, Lodz, Poland (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

13 – Volkshaus, Zurich, Switzgerland (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

14 –  Klokgebouw, Eindhoven, Holland (Pat O’Brien, guest guitarist)

* For more info click on the links below:

CANNIBAL CORPSE – Official Website

SLAYER

METAL BLADE RECORDS

Metal Odyssey wishes Jeff Hanneman a quick recovery.

LONG LIVE JEFF HANNEMAN.

LONG LIVE PAT O’BRIEN and CANNIBAL CORPSE.

LONG LIVE GARY HOLT and EXODUS.

LONG LIVE SLAYER.

Stone.

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