Archive for Metal Church

METAL CHURCH Returns With New Lineup | New Single And Music Video “F.A.F.O.” Released!

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on November 21, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Metal Church press release:

Watch the new video at: https://youtu.be/X23RO0LjUk8
Stream or download at: https://lnk.to/MetalChurch

West Coast heavy metal veterans Metal Church return with a revitalized lineup and a hard-hitting new single that underscores the sound that has driven their four-decade legacy. The new formation features founding member and guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof, alongside longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, joined by bass icon David Ellefson, powerhouse drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic new vocalist Brian Allen.

Following the band’s recent tour and return from Australia, Metal Church found themselves at a crossroads. An unexpected spark reignited Kurdt’s creative drive, prompting him to reach out to the musicians who would ultimately shape the group’s next chapter. Their chemistry in the studio gave rise to the blistering new track “F.A.F.O.” – a song that immediately energized the band and inspired them to continue writing and recording. The new single was produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof and mixed/mastered by Zeuss at Planet Z.

Those sessions have now evolved into a brand-new Metal Church album, set for release in 2026 via Rat Pak Records. Additional details will be announced soon.

“After 45 years, the fact that we have new music coming in 2025 feels like a miracle. There was a time when I honestly didn’t think Metal Church would continue, but we’re back and this lineup is firing on all cylinders. I can’t tell you how excited I am to have a new single on the way; that alone makes this moment incredibly special. ‘F.A.F.O.’ is an aggressive thrasher, and I think the fans are really going to dig it, we certainly do. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be Metal Church,” explains Kurdt Vanderhoof.

Metal Church plan to tour extensively in 2026 and some festival dates have already been announced with more to come. All information on touring plans and links to tickets can be found at: https://www.metalchurchofficial.com

Wed, Aug 5, 2026 – Josefov, Czech – Brutal Assault Festival
Sat, Aug 8, 2026 – Kortrijik, Belgium – Alcatraz Festival
Sun, Aug 9, 2026 – Geiselwind, Germany – Keep It True Festival

With renewed energy, a legacy spanning over four decades, and a rapidly expanding worldwide fan base, Metal Church remains a driving force in modern heavy metal. Still pushing forward, still evolving and still unmistakably Metal Church.

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METAL CHURCH – “The Final Sermon” Live Album Releases This July via Rat Pak Records

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news with tags , , , , , , on June 2, 2024 by Metal Odyssey

From Rat Pak Records:

WORLDWIDE RELEASE DATE 07/26/2024

West coast metal veterans Metal Church will release The Final Sermon (Live in Japan 2019) via Rat Pak Records (America) and Reaper Entertainment (Europe) on July 26, 2024. Produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof, this Special Edition live release features one of the final recorded performances of Mike Howe with Metal Church, which took place over two nights at Club Citta in Kawasaki, Japan during their 2019 “Damned If You Do” Tour.

Kurdt Vanderhoof comments, “We recorded these two shows in Japan with the intention of Mike entering the studio to polish-up any inconsistencies and/or to re-track anything that didn’t come out correctly, but he never got the chance. First the pandemic hit, and then of course his tragic passing, so what you are hearing is exactly what the audience heard that night, Mike giving it his all, live and uncensored! This album not only commemorates our 2019 Damned If You Do tour, but also pays homage to our friend and brother’s legacy. The album will arrive on the 3rd Anniversary of his passing, and it is our hope that Mike will continue to be remembered for the music and love he brought to the world.”

Get all the details and get in on some exclusive LTD print bundles at this link: https://www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/metal-church

Track Listing:
01. Damned If You Do
02. Needle and Suture
03. Fake Healer
04. In Mourning
05. Human Factor
06. Date with Poverty
07. The Black Things
08. Gods of A Second Chance
09. Start the Fire
10. Watch the Children Pray
11. Beyond the Black
12. By the Numbers
13. No Friend of Mine
14. Badlands 
Bonus Tracks (cd and digital)
15. Agent Green 
16. Anthem to the Estranged

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

REST IN PEACE, MIKE HOWE.

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METAL CHURCH – New Studio Album “Congregation of Annihilation” Releases On May 26th!

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , on March 23, 2023 by Metal Odyssey

From Rat Pak Records:

West coast metal veterans Metal Church will release their 13thstudio album, Congregation of Annihilation, on May 26th via Rat Pak Records (America) and Reaper Entertainment (Europe). The new album marks the first release since the tragic death of legendary front man Mike Howe who passed in July of 2021. It also marks the first album with new vocalist Marc Lopes (Ross the Boss / Let Us Prey) who came on board in the summer of 2022 and features the current lineup of founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof, guitarist Rick Van Zandt, bassist Steve Unger and drummer Stet Howland. The new songs are a return to the band’s musical roots harkening back to the vibes of the self-titled first album and The Dark.

Of the album Kurdt Vanderhoof comments: “This new album is starting a new chapter in the Metal Church legacy. I really love this album. It’s a fresh approach for us in one way, but also a return to the very beginnings of Metal Church as part of the New American Thrash Metal movement. This record contains some of the most aggressive songs we have recorded. I hope the fans will like it as much as we do.”

Marc Lopes comments, “I am beyond honored to be part of carrying on this legacy into a new era of Metal Church. Working with Kurdt and a band that was a huge influence of mine growing up was a surreal experience to say the least. For me there was no point in trying to imitate what was already done to perfection. So, with respect to the past, we moved forward to a new chapter and here we are!”

Congregation of Annihilation features nine all new tracks from Metal Church and continues to build upon their iconic sound the band established over three decades ago. From the first guitar riff of album opener “Another Judgement Day” through the driving outro of album closer “Salvation,” it is clear Metal Church is back and better than ever. “Pick A God and Prey”, “Children of the Lie”, “Congregation of Annihilation” and “These Violent Thrills” showcase the sonically charged songwriting that made the early Metal Church albums such fan favorites.

Haunting musical opuses “Me the Nothing” and “Making Monsters” each puts the musicianship that Metal Church was known for on full display in 2023. Infused with intelligent lyrical content, thundering guitar riffs, and Marc’s aggressive soaring vocals, Congregation of Annihilation furthers the bands sonic evolution up to the next level and is guaranteed to enthrall metal music fans around the world.

Track List:

(01) Another Judgement Day
(02) Congregation of Annihilation
(03) Pick A God and Prey
(04) Children of the Lie
(05) Me the Nothing
(06) Making Monsters
(07) Say a Prayer with 7 Bullets
(08) These Violent Thrills
(09) All That We Destroy
(10) My Favorite Sin (bonus track)
(11) Salvation (bonus track)

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METAL CHURCH – LTD Print Picture Disc & CD “Best of Mike Howe” Pre-Order Info!

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on November 12, 2022 by Metal Odyssey

You can now pre-order the LTD Print Metal Church “The Best of Mike Howe” (2016-2021) vinyl record picture disc bundle, includes memorial guitar pick, 4×4 sticker and 8×10 insert. [ONLY 300 AVAILABLE!] This is the first, last and only pressing, once they are gone they are gone, so grab yours while supplies last!

There is also a CD Jewel-case version which includes an unreleased bonus/demo track “Never Grow Old”! Pre-orders will ship on or before December 16, 2022.

Reserve your copy here: https://ratpakrecordsamerica.com/metal-church

Rest In Peace, Mike Howe

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MUNROE’S THUNDER – Release “The Black Watch” And Reveal Video For “Dead Man’s War”

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on November 11, 2022 by Metal Odyssey

MUNROE’S THUNDER, fronted by renowned power-metal vocalist, Ronny Munroe, have released their new album The Black Watch today via RFL Records.

Ronny Munroe Comments:

MUNROE’S THUNDER, The Black Watch, is loosely based on my family heritage, as some of my ancestors were actually in the black watch who guarded Mary, Queen Of Scots. Finding that out intrigued me enough to do a concept record about my family heritage. 

“After a very long wait, this record is finally finished and ready for you all to hear. I am very proud and elated by all the hard work that went into it, from the hours of research to the countless hours from DMP behind the board and all the remarkable talent that is on the album. Thank you so much to Jon and the team at RFL Records for having faith in our vision and for finally bringing MUNROE’S THUNDER to the masses.”

Watch the new video for “Dead Man’s War” which was also released today here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGTvKXE6hIU

Order: https://www.rflrecords.com/product-page/munroe-s-thunder-the-black-watch-collector-s-edition-cd

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2yy6ks7saliSjfZ6i3MRB9?si=21b54ae8f0d5465d

The Black Watch is a journey where melodic power metal tells the tale of darkness, betrayal and bravery during the reign of one of history’s most recognized Queens, Mary Queen Of Scots. Mary Queen of Scots, original name Mary Stuart or Mary Stewart, (born December 8, 1542, Linlithgow Palace, West Lothian, Scotland—died February 8, 1587, Fotheringhay Castle, Northamptonshire, England), queen of Scotland (1542–67) and queen consort of France (1559–60). Her unwise marital and political actions provoked rebellion among the Scottish nobles, forcing her to flee to England, where she was eventually beheaded as a Roman Catholic threat to the English throne. The story is one of history’s most recognized tales and Munroe, coincidentally, has ties to the legendary history of the Queen.

Sound effects and atmospheric textures set the mood of this album and its chilling tale, delivered, of course, in full-throttle power metal style. The title track unleashes Munroe’s soaring melodic vocals accompanied by epic guitar leads and riffs. The album also includes a number of ballad-style tracks: “Babbington Mary”, “Falkirk” and “Thirty Years War”. The shift in musical textures and pace adds further dimension to the dynamical journey of The Black Watch. “The Executioner” brings this royal story of bloodshed to a gruesome conclusion. Thunder and rain manifests alongside a sombre guitar melody before the track builds into the full heavy ensemble. An anthemic chorus, dark guitars and haunting lyrics tell of Mary’s execution and bring this chapter to a close.

About Ronny Munroe:

Ronny Munroe is an American singer, most noted as the lead vocalist of the heavy metal band METAL CHURCH. Ronny recorded three albums with METAL CHURCH before the band decided to call it quits in 2009. His second tenure with the band lasted from 2012 when the group reunited until 2014, where he left to “pursue other interests.” In October 2011, Munroe joined the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, as a vocalist, which further defined his prominence as one of metals elite. In July of 2022, Munroe was announced as the new lead vocalist for the power metal titans, VICIOUS RUMORS.

Munroe has an extensive background as a lead singer and has fronted acts such as ZERO DISCIPLINE, MADHOUSE, MOXI, the Seattle band PALADIN from 1986 to 1988 and also the band FARCRY in the early ’90’s.

MUNROE’S THUNDER meshes METAL CHURCH, SAVATAGE, VICIOUS RUMORS and IRON MAIDEN and there is something for every metal fan here. Munroe’s broad vocal range and power highlight the album and its easy to see that there is still plenty of fire left in the heart and voice of the talented rocker.

MUNROE’S THUNDER:
Ronny Munroe – Vocals
David Mark Pearce – Guitars, bass
BJ Zampa – Drums
Justin Zych – Guitar
Oliver Wakeman-Keyboards

Track Listing:

1. Battle Cry
2. The Black Watch
3. Awaken The Fire
4. Gray Hall
5. Babbington Mary
6. Brace For The Night
7. Dead Man’s War
8. Falkirk
9. Thirty Years War
10. Echoes Of The Dead
11. The Executioner

Source: C Squared Music

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METAL CHURCH – “In Memoriam” Remembering Mike Howe Booklet And Tribute Shirt Availabe via Rat Pak Records

Posted in Heavy Metal with tags , , , , , , , , on November 4, 2021 by Metal Odyssey

Mike Howe “In Memoriam” (Remembering Mike Howe) 60 page full color 8×11 memorial booklet and official tribute shirt is now available for a limited time. A visual celebration & tribute to Mike Howe’s music career, including photos from his days with Hellion, Snair, Heretic and Metal Church!

Get all the details and reserve yours here: https://ratpakrecordsamerica.com/metal-church

ROCK IN HEAVEN, MIKE HOWE.

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My Recent Metal Music Purchases – METAL CHURCH, CULTURAL WARFARE And A Classic Rock Gem!

Posted in Metal with tags , , , , , , , , on May 22, 2020 by Metal Odyssey

METAL CHURCH have been on a surging comeback the last several years and we can all thank the Metal Gods for that! I needed to buy their recent release From The Vault on cassette, so I can play it loud in my very old and beloved car. During this pandemic, I purchased this cassette online directly from the mighty Rat Pak Records. METAL CHURCH are incredible to their fans and an experience to see in concert. I had to throw that in. Dig it?

CULTURAL WARFARE deliver the Thrash bounty on their EP Future Kill. I just discovered this outstanding band too. These dudes are from Oakland, California and each band member is obviously seasoned with their Bay Area Thrash Metal roots. Get this, I compare their overall sound to our East Coast Thrash Metal icon, aka, OVERKILL. Hey, that’s a superb Metal compliment! Another pandemic purchase I made online, buying this CD directly from M-Theory Audio.

Right before all hell broke loose with the evil coronavirus, I grabbed this cassette tape version of TRIUMPH‘s Never Surrender. A classic. I bought it at a Goodwill store for a meager 99 cents! It plays like new too. Please ignore that yucky price sticker on the cassette box; I’m going to remove it eventually with the magical Goo Gone. Never Surrender released way back in 1982. Heck, Prince William, Duke Of Cambridge was born back in 1982; on June 21st to be exact. Now I feel kinda old.

Thank you for visiting Metal Odyssey and reading this post. I appreciate it more than you know. Leave a comment if you like! In Metal We Trust. Stay safe out there. – Stone

LONG LIVE METAL.

STONE.

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My Recent Metal Music Purchases: Metal Church, Haunt…

Posted in Metal with tags , , , , , , on April 16, 2020 by Metal Odyssey

I’ve recently been purchasing my CDs, cassettes and vinyl via online, due to store closures resulting from the coronavirus pandemic. I always patronize my local independent record stores and surely miss going to them; they served as a true escape from the daily grind. Hopefully our country and world will eventually return to some sort of normalcy. We have to!!

At the top of this post is the new METAL CHURCH release: From The Vault. I bought the CD/comic/sticker/guitar pick bundle, directly from Rat Pak Records. I couldn’t be happier with this METAL CHURCH bundle, it’s very unique!

Finland is home for OBDUKTIO and they have kicked the shit out of my ear canals! Ihmiskunnen Viholliset is the title for the cassette I bought directly from Caligari Records. I have no idea what the title translates to; all I know is it translates to OBDUKTIO plays killer Death Metal, Grind and extreme aggression to the maximum of levels! Metal be thy name!

I cannot get enough of California’s HAUNT. This band of young Metal warriors have taken the Traditional Metal torch and have ran away with it! I bought this (yellow version) cassette of If Icarus Could Fly directly from HAUNT, via their bandcamp site. I am currently on a Metal mission to obtain every release from HAUNT; they are that grand and addicting! A guitar driven Metal band!

Yes, it’s HAUNT once again! Their Mosaic Vision EP is available directly from the band and I jumped right on it! Each purchase I bought from HAUNT‘s bandcamp site also included the digital download. Can’t beat that! Thank you for checking out my site, stay safe and play it LOUD! – Stone

METAL FOREVER.

Stone.

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METAL CHURCH “Damned If You Do” – Releases On December 7th, 2018, Via Rat Pak Records!

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Music, music news, news, rock music, world news with tags , , , , on October 4, 2018 by Metal Odyssey

From Rat Pak Records:

West coast metal veterans Metal Church will release their 12th full length studio album Damned If You Do via Rat Pak Records on December 7, 2018 and will also be available in Europe via Nuclear Blast and Japan via KING Records. The latest release is the follow-up to their highly successful 2016 album “XI”, which saw the return of legendary front-man Mike Howe. Damned If You Do is a cross between the band’s iconic Blessing In Disguise and The Human Factor. This new offering features ten fully-charged, classic-metal influenced songs that showcase the sound that has garnered the band a solid fanbase for over 3 decades.

Kurdt Vanderhoof comments: “I feel this album is a very powerful statement to what Metal Church has always been about. A tough and aggressive old school metal album while maintaining a level of musicality and melodic sensibilities”.

Damned If You Do also features new drummer Stet Howland (ex WASP / Lita Ford). Stet first arrived after the departure of long-time drummer Jeff Plate, but soon after joining the band was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Miraculously his treatments for the aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma worked and he was able to begin recording the new album.

Speaking of the new album Stet Howland comments, “From the minute we started tracking this new CD, I had the feeling that it was going to be something special. I knew that I was going to do my best to deliver a top drum performance, not only because of the high standard set by past Metal Church drummers, but also because this is my first CD release after being sick. I’m beyond happy with all aspects of this CD, great songs, great performances, great production, just an overall great CD! I love it!”

Metal Church - Damned If You Do - album flyer - 2018 - #1MO333ILG

Damned If You Do is something truly unique and special. The songs are powerful, precise, and Metal Church’s musical vision is unified. From the haunting opener “Damned If You Do” to the final hard-edged track “The War Electric,” this new album is sure to resonate with fans from the band’s early years while garnering new ones. Songs like “By The Numbers,” “Guillotine” and “The Black Things” are sure to become instant favorites!

Mike Howe comments: “I’m very excited about the new release. It all came together way better than I even imagined. It’s a great feeling to work really hard on a musical project pouring your heart into it and hoping it comes out as something you can be proud of in the end. I have been listening to it every day and loving it! I hope our fans do as well!”

Metal Church “Damned If You Do” is available in various formats and bundle configurations including a ltd Blue, Black & white vinyl pressing with an alternate track sequence also an Ultimate Fan Bundle that includes a personal “Thank-you” phone call from Mike Howe, exclusively available at: https://ratpakrecordsamerica.com/metal-church

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

STONE.

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METAL CHURCH – RAT PAK RECORDS Set To Release METAL CHURCH “CLASSIC LIVE”

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, news, rock music, world news with tags , , , , on March 4, 2017 by Metal Odyssey

metal-church-classic-live-promo-cover-pic-2017-33ilmfso90937

West coast metal veterans Metal Church will release “Classic Live” via Rat Pak Records on April 28, 2017. Produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof, this special edition release features nine classic Metal Church songs recorded live on their 2016 tour and also includes a special bonus track; a powerful new studio version of “Fake Healer” that features a duet with Queensrÿche vocalist Todd La Torre.

Comments guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof; “This album not only commemorates the reunion between Mike and the band, but it also pays tribute to some of the more popular songs of that era. It’s really cool to see so many old fans and new fans of all ages enjoying these classics as we perform them live, so it only made sense to release this”. Mike Howe adds “It’s an honor to be back and it makes me very happy to see that almost 3 decades later, fans are still enjoying these songs!”

metal-church-promo-flyer-classic-live-2017-mo99ilmfso33

On the subject of the “Fake Healer” duet with Todd, Mike Howe comments, “The idea came from the owner of our label Rat Pak Records (Joe). It was his idea to record this as a duet with Todd. It’s an amazing version and I think fans will be very surprised at how good it sounds!”

Queensrÿche singer Todd La Torre further comments, “Having been a fan of Metal Church since my early teens, never in my wildest dreams would I have ever imagined that the great Mike Howe would re-join the band! Getting the opportunity to record a duet to the track Fake Healer was beyond amazing!”

Comments guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof; “This album not only commemorates the reunion between Mike and the band, but it also pays
Metal Church Classic Live is currently available for pre-order via the Rat Pak Records website in various bundles including vinyl, signed CD’s and t-shirts and can be found at: www.ratpakrecords.com/metal-church

TRACK LISTING:
01. Beyond the Black (Live)
02. Date with Poverty (Live)
03. Gods of a Second Chance (Live)
04. In Mourning (Live)
05. Watch the Children Pray (Live)
06. Start the Fire (Live)
07. No Friend of Mine (Live)
08. Badlands (Live)
09. Human Factor (Live)
10. Fake Healer (Bonus Studio Track) featuring Todd La Torre of Queensrÿche
11. Badlands (2015 Studio Version) *VINYL VERSION ONLY*

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE COOL BUNDLES

metal-church-classic-live-bundles-promo-flyer-2017-mo99ilmfso333

CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER

metal-church-t-shirts-promo-flyer-2017-mo88ilmfso9933

Source: Rat Pak Records

_____________________________

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

METAL CHURCH F’N RULES.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

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ARMORED SAINT – Announces US Tour Dates With METAL CHURCH

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal music, Music, news, rock music with tags , , , , , on April 22, 2016 by Metal Odyssey

Armored Saint - Metal Church - promo tour flyer - Summer 2016 - #MO999ILMFBJ

Starting this June, the mighty ARMORED SAINT will head back out on the road, playing to fans across the world this Summer! The first run of dates kicks off in the US, with the band joining Metal Church for a special West Coast trek. ARMORED SAINT bassist Joey Vera comments: “We’re super excited to go back out for some select dates this Summer. The June dates with Metal Church are a fan-made match that is sure to be an amazing time!”

As previously reported, ARMORED SAINT will also make several European festival and club appearances this July, before concluding their world tour in Japan at Loud Park. See below for all upcoming dates.

ARMORED SAINT - BLACK LOGO ON WHITE BKGRD!

ARMORED SAINT w/ Metal Church:

6/03/2016 @ M15 – Corona, CA
6/04/2016 @ Whisky-A-Go-Go – Hollywood, CA
6/05/2016 @ Brick by Brick – San Diego, CA
6/06/2016 @ Brooklyn Bowl – Las Vegas, NV
6/08/2016 @ DNA Lounge – San Francisco, CA
6/10/2016 @ Studio Seven – Seattle, WA
6/11/2016 @ Hawthorne Theater – Portland, OR
7/14/2016 @ Underworld – London, UK
7/16/2016 @ Rock Fest Barcelona @ Parc de Can – Barcelona, ES
7/28/2016 @ Headbangers Open Air – Brande-Hornerkirchen, DE
7/29/2016 @ Saarmageddon @ Messegeland e- Saarbrucken, DE
7/30/2016 @ Nord Open Air – Essen, DE
10/ 8/2016 @ Loud Park Festival – Tokyo, JP

Armored Saint - Win Hands Down - promo album cover pic - 2015 - #ASMO05313

ARMORED SAINT recently revamped their merchandise store to include a slew of new and classic designs, which can be viewed here: (USA) indiemerch.com/armoredsaint or (Europe) goo.gl/HXCROv. For more news, current tour dates, and additional information, fans can also visit the newly updated official website: armoredsaint.com.

ARMORED SAINT brings together five masters of Metal – frontman John Bush, bassist Joey Vera, guitarist Phil Sandoval, drummer Gonzo Sandoval and guitarist Jeff Duncan – all combine to forge one of the genre’s most criminally unsung forces. Their latest full-length, Win Hands Down, debuted at #71 on the Billboard Top 200 Current Albums Chart during its week of release, and also earned an impressive #33 on the German Top 100 albums charts. To purchase and preview Win Hands Down, visit: metalblade.com/armoredsaint.

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Source: Earsplit PR

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE ARMORED SAINT.

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

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METAL CHURCH – New Album “XI” Slated For Release On MARCH 25th Via RAT PAK RECORDS

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, news, rock music with tags , , , on January 5, 2016 by Metal Odyssey

Metal Church - XI - promo album banner - 2016 - #MO339399ILMFD

METAL CHURCH RETURN WITH LEGENDARY VOCALIST MIKE HOWE

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(January 5th, 2016 – New York, NY) – Hard rock titans Metal Church return with their latest album XI slated for release on March 25th via Rat Pak Records. The band’s 11th studio release also marks the return of legendary vocalist and front man Mike Howe. The reunion between Mike and Metal Church started in July of 2014 when Mike started working with Kurdt Vanderhoof on a side project he was forming with Nigel Glockler from Saxon.

Through these initial conversations, Kurdt convinced Mike to ultimately return to Metal Church. The idea was to see if they could recapture some of the magic from the 3 albums Metal Church released in the late 80’s: The Human Factor, Blessing In Disguise and Hanging In The Balance. Out of those sessions, XI was born and captures the sound that made the band fan-favorites in the 80‘s and mixes it with a new, invigorated sound for 2016.

“Sometimes I still can’t believe it myself, no one would have ever thought Mike would return after his departure almost 2 decades ago” says guitarist and founding member Kurdt Vanderhoof.

“At first I struggled with the decision to come back, but after hearing the riffs that Kurdt was writing, I just couldn’t resist, the music called to me and I wanted to be part of it!” says returning vocalist Mike Howe.

Metal Church has also released an official music video for the debut single from XI, “No Tomorrow.” The video can be seen above or at: https://youtu.be/ary17dRnC3o and was filmed in the Satsop Nuclear Facility, an abandoned nuclear power plant in Elma, Washington. The video was directed by Jamie Chamberlin of Black Dahlia Films and features a unique visual that ties in to the location.

A behind-the-scenes video on the making of the video for “No Tomorrow” was also recently released and can be seen below or here: https://youtu.be/Rr0bHRjfhmU.

XI was produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof and co-produced by Chris “The Wizard” Collier.

Rat Pak Records has also teamed up with Nuclear Blast Europe through a worldwide licensing agreement for distribution of XI in all territories outside of North America, South America and Japan. “We here at Rat Pak Records were very excited to receive a licensing request from Markus Staiger and his amazing team at Nuclear Blast Europe to release this new Metal Church XI into their international territories, ultimately insuring that this album will reach every corner of the globe,” states Rat Pak Records President Joe O’Brien.

Markus Staiger adds: “We are happy and proud to welcome Metal Church, an absolute metal legend, to the Nuclear Blast Europe family! When the self-titled debut album was released in 1984, it was a revelation to me – that this was how heavy metal had to sound like – with killer riffs and plenty of speed! We will do our utmost to help re-establish Metal Church here in Europe and get them back where they belong – in the ‘Champions League’ once again!“ King Records will be overseeing the new Metal Church release throughout Japan. “We are very excited to be releasing the new album by Metal Church,” adds “Ryo” Saito of King Records.

Metal Church - promo band pic - 2015 - #090306MONMSS4F

Metal Church Official Website:

http://metalchurchofficial.com

Metal Church Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMetalChurch

Metal Church on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/metalchurchis1

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Source:

Rat Pak Records - logo - 2013

www.ratpakrecords.com/home

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

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LEGENDARY METAL CHURCH SINGER MIKE HOWE RETURNS TO THE BAND!

Posted in Metal, metal bands, metal music, rock music, world news with tags , , , , on May 1, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Metal Church - Mike Howe - Is Back - promo flyer - 2015 - #016MCMORPR

From Rat Pak Records:

Legendary front-man Mike Howe returns to Metal Church! In the summer of 2014 the band suddenly found themselves in need of a new singer. As fate would have it, Kurdt was already in talks with Mike for another project that he was working on with Saxon drummer Nigel Glockler, so he decided to ask Mike to rejoin Metal Church. Mike agreed, but true to form, didn’t want to make it official until he knew for sure that the integrity of the new material was there.

In Mike’s own words: ” I didn’t want to come back to Metal Church just for nostalgia, it had to be for the right reasons, it had to be the best stuff we’ve ever written together or it just wouldn’t be worth it to anyone, especially the fans.”  Soon after, Kurdt and Mike began exchanging ideas and writing new material with the band. The end result sounds like “Classic Mike Howe era Metal Church, it’s both heavy and melodic” says guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof and further states “Mike sounds the same as he did 20 years ago, this is going to be truly epic!!” Drummer Jeff Plate comments, “Mike Howe is the ONLY singer for Metal Church. He has a reputation of complete honor and respect.  We can now take Metal Church to the next level!”

Mike Howe originally joined Metal Church in the late 80’s and released 3 albums with the band: “The Human Factor”, “Blessing In Disguise” and “Hanging in the Balance”. Mike was also the face of popular music videos “Date With Poverty” and “Badlands” that aired during MTV’s heyday.

The band is currently in the process of working on their new album, which will be released later this year via Rat Pak Records.   Metal Church is: Mike Howe (Vocals), Kurdt Vanderhoof (Guitars) Jeff Plate (Drums), Steve Unger (Bass) and Rick VanZandt (Guitars).

For more info click HERE.

Join the METAL CHURCH congregation on Facebook:

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MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

LONG LIVE MIKE HOWE.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

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RONNY MUNROE “THE OTHERS” (LONG LIVE HEAVY METAL) OFFCIAL VIDEO IS: STONE’S METAL PICK OF THE DAY!

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal music, music news, music videos, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on May 26, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Ronny Munroe - Electric Wake - promo cover pic - 2014

RONNY MUNROE – The powerful voice of Metal Church and Metal warrior, Ronny Munroe, will be seeing his 3rd solo album, Electric Wake, releasing via Rat Pak Records on June 24th, 2014. Keeping true to his Heavy Metal aura, Ronny Munroe once again sings the doctrine of our beloved music genre, in impressive and enlightening fashion. The aforementioned is why the official music video for The Others (Long Live Heavy Metal) is Stone’s METAL Pick Of The Day!

This Metal spirited music video also features the beautiful and talented Pamela Moore (shared lead and vocal harmonies) and Tesla’s Dave Rude on guitar! A grand song of Metal unification among our community this is! Metal be thy name! – Stone

 Turn The Volume Onto HIGH And Enjoy The Others (Long Live Heavy Metal) Official Music Video! Whoa!

Ronny Munroe - Electric Wake - promo album flyer - rat pak records - 2014

* For more info on RONNY MUNROE:

Facebook: Ronny Munroe

Website: http://www.ronnymunroe.com

Rat Pak Records - logo - 2013

Website: http://www.ratpakrecords.com

Stone - Motorhead Tee pic:small

LONG LIVE RONNY MUNROE.

LONG LIVE HEAVY METAL.

Stone.

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RAT PAK RECORDS SET TO RELEASE “ELECTRIC WAKE” THE NEW SOLO CD FROM METAL CHURCH SINGER RONNY MUNROE!

Posted in Heavy Metal, metal bands, metal music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on May 16, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Ronny Munroe - Electric Wake - promo album flyer - rat pak records - 2014

Ronny Munroe’s Electric Wake is by far his best work to date! Produced by Bruce Bouillet and mixed by Jon Wyman, this 3rd offering from the Metal Church front man truly captures all the magic of the classic metal genre! “I wanted to create something that was totally new, but at the same time allow all my influences to shine through” states Ronny on the recording of the CD. “I put two years into the writing process of this album, but when it came time to start recording, I threw everything out the window and just went with my gut and it worked out better than I could have imagined” Ronny further states.

Electric Wake also features collaborations with guitar legend George Lynch, Tesla guitarist Dave Rude, Pamela Moore (Queensryche’s “Sister Mary”), Paul Kleff (ex Firewolfe), Dan Donigian, Sean Baker and Tony Rossi. Ronny Munroe’s Electric Wake delivers a healthy dose of fist-pumping, guitar-driven, well-conceived classic style Heavy Metal music and is a must-have for all fans of the genre! Three videos have been shot for this release, “United”, “Pray” and “The Others (Long Live Heavy Metal)” which features a duet with Pamela Moore, and Tesla’s Dave Rude on guitar which will debut in the coming weeks. Official release date is set for Tuesday June 24, 2014. Click HERE to pre-order now!

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TRACK LISTING:

Burning Time
Ghosts (Featuring George Lynch)
Electric Wake
Turn To Stone
My Shadow
Not You Not Me
Pray
Ritual Damage
Sleepless Mountain
The Others (Long Live Heavy Metal) featuring: Pamela Moore and Dave Rude (Tesla)
United

BONUS TRACKS (deluxe version)
Tainted Nation
Total Eclipse (Iron Maiden cover)

Ronny Munroe - Electric Wake - promo cover pic - 2014

www.RatPakRecords.com/RonnyMunroe

(Source: Rat Pak Records)

Rat Pak Records - logo - 2013

Website: http://www.ratpakrecords.com

Stone - Motorhead Tee pic:small

LONG LIVE RONNY MUNROE.

LONG LIVE METAL.

Stone.

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METAL CHURCH News: Rat Pak Records Launching Grab-Bag Giveaway Items From Random Pre-Orders Of “Generation Nothing” On October 8th!

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on October 4, 2013 by Metal Odyssey

Metal Church - Rat Pak Records - grab-bag giveaway - promo flyer - 2013

METAL CHURCH – As reported by Rat Pak Records: Next Tuesday [October 8th] we will randomly draw the names from the list of those who pre-ordered the new Metal Church CD Generation Nothing from us and start sending out the cool grab bag items! Items include:

Metal Church “Generation Nothing” embroidered leather jacket , Skateboard, MC pendant bracelet, The Dark on Vinyl (vintage,) Hand written lyric sheets, 18 x 24 wall tapestry, One-of-a-kind Metal Church Fan bundle – Personal “Thank-You” call from Ronny Munroe and limited print Metal Church road crew shirts.

Pre-order your copy of Metal Church “Generation Nothing” today! 

www.RatPakRecords.com/MetalChurch

The title track (click below) from the new METAL CHURCH album “GENERATION NOTHING”

 https://soundcloud.com/rat-pak-records/generation-nothing

Metal Church - Generation Nothing - promo flyer - October - 2013

Official release date for “Generation Nothing” is scheduled for October 22nd, 2013.

Metal Church - Generation Nothing - promo album photo - 2013

GENERATION NOTHING – Track Listing:

Bullet Proof

Dead City

Generation Nothing

Noises In The Wall

Jump The Gun

Suiciety

Scream

Hits Keep Comin’

Close To The Bone

The Media Horse

Metal Church - promo band - generation nothing - flyer - 2013

METAL CHURCH:

Kurdt Vanderhoof – guitar

Ronny Munroe – vocals

Jeff Plate – drums

Rick Van Zandt – guitar

Steve Unger – bass

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* For More Info On METAL CHURCH:

Facebook: Metal Church – Official

http://www.metalchurchmusic.com

Rat Pak Records - logo - 2013

www.ratpakrecords.com/home

Facebook: Rat Pak Records

Stone - Motorhead Tee pic:small

LONG LIVE METAL CHURCH.

LONG LIVE METAL.

METAL BE THY NAME.

Stone.

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Ronny Munroe “The Fire Within” – Metal Church vocalist roars on solo debut

Posted in Album Review, Century Media, century media records, classic metal, cover songs, current heavy metal albums, current heavy metal music, dio, essential heavy metal albums, Guitar, guitar solos, Heavy Metal, heavy metal album covers, heavy metal album review, heavy metal albums, heavy metal guitarists, heavy metal music, heavy metal music 2009, Heavy Metal Reviews, heavy metal solo albums, heavy metal solo artists, heavy metal vocalists, Metal, Metal Church, metal music, metal music today, Metal Reviews, Music, new heavy metal album, old school heavy metal, rainbow heavy metal band, ronnie james dio, Vocals with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 2, 2009 by Metal Odyssey

30649First of all, I am a fan of Ronny Munroe, the current lead vocalist for Metal Church. I just happen to gravitate towards the Old School Metal sound, both vocally and musically. Ronny Munroe in my Metal opinion, has the unmistakable Old School Heavy Metal vocals… and in no way do I subscribe to the opinion that this sound is dated. This brand of Old School Heavy Metal has been proven successful for decades now. For me, it is another Metal genre that lives on. With that said, I have obtained a copy of the new Ronny Munroe debut CD… “The Fire Within“, (released 2009), I am impressed by the total package of music here. This is Heavy Metal made the old school way, no frills, bells or whistles get in the way of the straight ahead approach that Ronny Munroe has taken on with “The Fire Within”. Honestly, Ronny Munroe comes with his Metal Church – front man credentials… he delivers a mightily solid twelve tunes alongside some talented friends. Rick Van Zandt of Metal Church, plays lead and rhythm guitars superbly throughout, with Michael Wilton of Queensryche delivering a solo on two tracks I will mention.

“Across The Sea Of Souls” is the song I feel Ronny Munroe is at his finest, his vocals sound sharp, as if he has been singing this song his entire life. The Michael Wilton solo on this song is cool, I cannot ignore or resist his guitar talent. “Ivory Towers” and “Evil Genius” are tracks that showcase moments of the higher extreme of Ronny’s vocal range, (yes, think of Rob Halford), these songs are groove laden with images of 1980’s Arena Metal concerts in my mind! “Ride Me” is a Metal-macho tune that rocks heavy, the lyrics are tailor made for a Hair Metal band… Ronny makes this song work, Randy Cooper kicks in with a lean & mean solo, a Heavy Metal tune with plenty of swagger. “What You Choose To Call Hell (I Call Home)” comes across to me, as the signature track for Ronny on this album. It is dark, heavy, moody and effectively bridges the gap between Metal Church and Ronny Munroe’s solo career. Michael Wilton appears again here, providing another memorable solo.

After listening to “The Fire Within”, it is my Metal opinion, that Ronny Munroe places Old School Heavy Metal high on a pedestal. I hear while listening to this album, the influences of Judas Priest, Dio and Dio era Rainbow. My opinion could not be better solidified, after listening to “Man On The Silver Mountain” (a vintage Rainbow song), covered by Ronny Munroe. This being the last track, it fittingly closes out a fine Heavy Metal album of creative tunes. Ronny does a terrific cover of this song, I really enjoy this version a whole bunch. This cover version found here, is a fine tribute to an everlasting, Heavy Metal classic of a song. Ronny’s vocals at times, do have comparisons to the legendary Ronnie James Dio, especially on this classic Rainbow cover. I will say, my favorite will always be the original “Man On The Silver Mountain” as sung by Dio himself. In summary, “The Fire Within” will be an album that I will tune in to on a regular basis, it is what I like. I was looking forward to this solo album from Ronny, I have not been disappointed. I recommend Ronny Munroe’s debut solo effort to any fan of Old School Heavy Metal, 1980’s Heavy Metal, Rainbow and of course, Metal Church. New fans should just dive in… this brand of Metal needs to be passed on!

Upon searching for “The Fire Within”, I did locate this CD on the worlds greatest online record store… Century Media Records… aka… CM Distro.com. (I highly recommend CM Distro.com). “The Fire Within” is on an independent record label called Ratpak Records. *Not to leave out the cool musicianship of the following on this album: Izzy Rehaume on bass guitar, Rick Pierce on rhythm guitar, Johnny Ringo and David Van Zandt on drums.

Ronny Munroe "The Fire Within"

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Metal Church – Heavy Metal to the core

Posted in 1980's heavy metal music, 1990's heavy metal music, Album Review, classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal album review, heavy metal albums, heavy metal guitarists, heavy metal music, Heavy Metal Reviews, heavy metal vocalists, Metal, Metal Church, metal music, Metal Reviews, rainbow heavy metal band, rock music with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 13, 2009 by Metal Odyssey

I have a long list of Metal bands that I simply cannot get enough of. Metal Church is on this list. Actually, Metal Church is at the very top of this list. The reasons are many: the musicianship (first & foremost), the lead vocalists throughout this bands career  (the late David Wayne), Mike Howe and current lead vocalist Ronny Munroe. The music of Metal Church has always been heavy, they have never tried to sign on to the flavor of the month when it comes to Heavy Metal. Metal Church has always been as great of a representation of Heavy Metal music, as you can possibly get. (In my Metal opinion). I will say this now, Ronny Munroe for me, is what I consider the most underrated lead singer in all of Heavy Metal music today. I definitely feel Ronny is a Heavy Metal flashback, old school if you will. That is a compliment, for Ronny does not over reach vocally nor does he try to. Ronny Munroe is the only lead vocalist today, that reminds me of the legendary Ronnie James Dio. Sometimes comparisons are cool, especially when you get compared to DIO. *Ronny Munroe has his brand new solo album out now titled “The Fire Within”… with Kurdt Vanderhoof and Ronny producing it. Ronny does a cover of the Rainbow – Ronnie James Dio classic – “Man On The Silver Mountain” – I ordered my copy today, man, I cannot wait to get it. Michael Wilton from Queensryche and Rick Van Zandt from Metal Church both play guitar on Ronny’s solo album too. 

Kurdt Vanderhoof, the founder, guitarist and leader of Metal Church, along with all the musicians that have been part of Metal Church, both past and present, have proven to me that perseverance with musical integrity can bring about incredible Metal music. The proof of this belief are the catalog of albums from Metal Church. Plus, Kurdt Vanderhoof has a pretty darn good side project of a band called Presto Ballet as well. (I will save Presto Ballet for another future post). Going back to October 27th of 2008, a statement on the Metal Church website informed fans that Kurdt Vanderhoof was going to correct/rehabilitate bulging discs in his lower back. The statement went on to say this situation could take up to 6 months for Kurdt Vanderhoof. Man, I truly hope and pray that Kurdt Vanderhoof does rid his body of all the pain these bulging discs have caused. I am hopeful that everything goes well for Kurdt. 

During this past year, (September 23, 2008), Metal Church released their new album “This Present Wasteland” – one rock solid chunk of Heavy Metal that every fan of quality Metal music should own. It is an album that I consider to be one of the very best in Heavy Metal releases from 2008. I personally feel every tune on this album is heavy and of equal worthiness. “Monster” is a great track, lyrically taking on the dark side of cyberspace addiction. My favorite tune on this album is without a doubt, “Crawling To Extinction”, this song has all the old school, Heavy Metal flare, musically happening. If you are even remotely interested in checking out what Metal Church is all about, buy any album/CD of theirs and become an instant fan. The debut album of Metal Church is heavier, faster, more of a Thrash Metal work, in my Metal opinion. Comparing one Metal Church album to another is ridiculous, based on there being 3 different lead vocalists over the years. Besides, my being a gigantic advocate for Metal Church will not allow me to nit pick any of their music they have ever created. Check out Metal Church at http://www.metalchurchmusic.com

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Greatest Metal album of all-time list #5!

Posted in Album Review, Alice cooper, Hair Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Metal Church, Metal Reviews, Music, Over Kill, Power Metal, Rock, Slipknot, Thrash Metal with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 1, 2009 by Metal Odyssey

3646022Here it is, list #5 in my soul searching quest to determine the greatest Metal album of all-time! I feel like I am nearing closure, the light is at the end of the Metal tunnel. Please feel free to chime in and throw at me any Metal album you have not seen on any of these lists thus far, that you feel is deemed worthy of nomination for the greatest Metal album ever. Why, for me to actually forget a legendary Metal masterpiece? Of course, I am only (Metalhead) human. Plus, the years of Metal have provided such a vast array of genres, so many cool and brilliant albums are out there. I will consider any Metal album suggestion that may come my way, despite my being a Heavy Metal expert – I am kidding of course, all you need to do is read my article on “experts”! Now without any more Metal delay, here goes another 10 nominations (in no particular order) for the greatest Metal album of all-time:

1.    Dream Theater – “Images and Words”

2.    Mountain – “Climbing”

3.    Van Halen – “Van Halen”

4.    Alice Cooper – “Billion Dollar Babies”

5.    Aerosmith – “Toys In The Attic”

6.    Metal Church – “Metal Church”

7.    Over Kill – “Feel The Fire”

8.    Manowar – “Battle Hymns”

9.    Rainbow – “Long Live Rock ‘N’ Roll”

10.  Slipknot – “Slipknot”

Stay tuned!


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