The ancient, demonic rites of South American metal are resurrected as EVILCULT prepares to unleash their third full-length album, Triumph of Evil, on September 19th via Awakening Records. Forged in the fires of chaos and blasphemy, this new offering is a merciless assault on Christian morality and a hell-forged tribute to the primitive, raw energy of ’80s underground metal.
Since their formation in 2016, the Brazilian horde, composed of vocalist/guitarist Lucas From Hell, bassist Speed Lobo-Guará, drummer Filipe Stress, and guitarist Hell Bordini, have clawed their way to the forefront of the modern black-speed-thrash scene. Their previous blasphemous tomes, At theDarkest Night (2020) and The Devil is Always Looking for Souls (2023), established them as keepers of a sacred, unholy flame. On Triumph of Evil, they wield it like a burning crucifix, searing the very foundations of convention.
The album’s sound is a venomous amalgam of Teutonic thrash and first-wave black metal, heavily indebted to the savage legends who first dared to mix speed with satanic rage. Lucas From Hell’s vocals rip through the chaos with a feral aggression, shifting from guttural growls to the piercing, possessed shrieks. The raw, analog production ensures every riff, solo, and blast beat echoes with the primitive spirit of ’80s legends like Hellhammer, Sodom, and the ferocious Brazilian pioneers Sarcófago.
The concept of Triumph of Evil is a direct, blasphemous inversion of a common religious narrative. The album’s stunning, hand-painted artwork shows Satan not defeated, but victorious, humiliating the Archangel. This visual rebellion sets the stage for the title track and the album as a whole: a merciless celebration of evil and the subversion of all that is considered holy. This is not just metal worship; it’s a declaration of war.
The album’s lead single, “Midnight Ritual,” serves as a perfect introduction to this hellish journey. Penned as a “killer track” with a “catchy chorus,” it is a raw, blood-soaked anthem celebrating the fusion of heavy metal with unholy rituals. This song, and indeed the entire album, was a testament to the band’s dedication, with songs written and arranged remotely under immense pressure, just weeks before their upcoming European tour.
This isn’t an album for the faint of heart. It is a raw, uncompromising tribute to the true underground. Triumph of Evil is a sound forged in defiance and a testament to the enduring power of pure, unholy metal.
Featuring Cameos from Members of Metal Church, Manowar and Immortal Guardian
Austin (TX) – Returning with their latest call-to-arms, Texas metal warlords IGNITOR are once again battle-ready with the release of their new album, Horns and Hammers.
Another storm-the-gates, metal onslaught, Horns and Hammersdelivers all the dramatic power and fury that landed previous albums Haunted by Rock ‘N’ Roll and The Golden Age of Black Magick in the hallowed realms of Judas Priest, Mercyful Fate, Raven, Dio, Accept and other legendary keepers of the metal creed.
From the title track’s speed-metal war cry and the Maiden-esque “Imperial Bloodlines” to the cowbell-driven “Shattered Crosses” and the 70s-inspired heavy metal of “Ferocious the Martyrs” (featuring guest keyboardist Gabriel Guardian of Immortal Guardian) the 11-track Horns and Hammers a mighty mix of classic heavy metal spiked with NWOBHM, thrash, power metal and the atmospheric textures of prog-metal and fantasy.
Photo Credit: Steve Miller
“We raised the bar high with our last two albums so we couldn’t settle for anything less than a full-on metal assault,” said founding guitarist Stuart “Batlord” Laurence. “We’ve always honored our influences, but we’re also very insistent that our music – first and foremost – sounds like IGNITOR. With Horns and Hammers, we’ve covered the spectrum of metal and taken Ignitor to a whole new level.”
Fronted by the soaring vocals of Jason McMaster (Watchtower, Dangerous Toys, Broken Teeth), IGNITOR’s strength is further forged by guitarist Robert Williams, bassist Billy “Chainsaw” Dansfiell and drummer Pat Doyle. Whether charging and pounding like clashing titans (“Dark Horse,” “Chaos Maximus Eternal”) or luring the listener into gothic tales of doom and deceit (“Suicide Anthem,” “Taken Up With Serpents”), IGNITOR delivers with shuddering impact.
Check out the promotional video for music, interviews, and album info at: youtu.be/ip1xGHaGH_4.
“Robert brought a ton of songs and riff ideas to the table and Billy had some great ideas that blossomed into full-blown songs,” Laurence said. “Once we started jamming with Pat’s pummeling backbeat, we knew we had something special.”
“As the arrangements started coming together, I found myself completely immersed and inspired to come up with the lyrical themes and characters to carry the songs to completion,” McMaster added. “I’m really proud of the band’s individual and collective contributions, and I think we all agree that Horns and Hammers is a triumph by any measure.”
The album’s stunning cover art – featuring a medieval warrior and his mighty steed surveying a hellish killing field – comes courtesy of renowned fantasy/sci-fi artist Claudio Bergamin, whose credits include Judas Priest (Firepower), Burning Witches (The Witch of the North), Cassius King (Field Trip) and Klassik ’78 (Phantoms), among others.
Produced and mastered by Stuart “Batlord” Laurence at Emphatic Audio in Austin, TX, Horns and Hammers was mastered for vinyl by Cris Burns. “Hell Shall Be Your Home” was recorded live in Austin TX at Kick Butt Coffee in 2019, and engineered by Ernie Basaldua with mixing by Stuart “Batlord” Laurence.
U.S. residents can pre-order the CD directly from the band at ignitorband.com/merch. Orders will ship no later than October 15.
Track Listing:
1. Horns And Hammers 2. Imperial Bloodlines 3. Dark Horse 4. Cyber Crush 5. Shattered Crosses 6. Taking Up With Serpents 7. Ferocious The Martyrs 8. Suicide Anthem 9. Chaos Maximus Eternal 10. Machine Gun (Saxon cover)* 11. Terminous
Note: “Hell Shall Be Your Home” appears on the Metal On Metal Records version.
All songs written, recorded and performed by Ignitor, except *“Machine Gun,” originally written, recorded and performed by Saxon, Carrere Music Ltd 1980.
Vinyl and CD versions wil be distributed through Revolt Vinyl Records in North and South America in November. This version will include a bonus track of the Saxon classic “Machine Gun,” featuring guest appearances by Ross The Boss (Manowar, Dictators), Marc Lopes (Metal Church, Let Us Prey, Ross The Boss) and Gabriel Guardian (Immortal Guardian). Look for the companion video of that song very soon. This version will soon be available for streaming and purchase on all digital platforms.
The vinyl version of Horns and Hammers will be released on Metal World Records in Europe.
NWOBHM champions SATAN invaded Madison Live! in Covington, Kentucky, on Wednesday October 4th. SATAN has been on my Metal bucket list for decades and the night of seeing them finally arrived and proved to be worth the enormous wait! It’s not any night that one can witness such a truly important band of Metal history and SATAN is such a band.
photo credit: Stone/Metal Odyssey
I made certain to get up close to the stage and absorb every second of this show; for its never guaranteed when a band like SATAN will tour through my area again. The fans at Madison Live! were packed in and ready, with so many donning their SATAN tour shirts and battle vests; making for a scene that could easily transport me back to 1985 and I couldn’t be more at home.
photo credit: Stone/Metal Odyssey
As SATAN took the stage, the scene became all so familiar to me; with that rush of Metal euphoria engulfing my senses of what was to come. The legendary Brian Ross commanded the stage with his presence and vocals; my eyes and ears in awe of his true Metal persona. Brian’s vocals were superb, encompassing the melodic power of the classic era of Metal; an era that defined a generation.
photo credit: Stone/Metal Odyssey
Yes, I banged my head and smiled like a Halloween pumpkin while raising my fist and throwing horns at SATAN. To some it may sound cliche now in 2023, yet this Metal genre started such celebratory concert manners which are forever locked into my now older DNA; being summoned by the likes of SATAN on this special night.
photo credit: Stone/Metal Odyssey
SATAN played brilliantly, both their classics and newer songs. The Speed Metal and NWOBHM sounds, vibes and chills from SATAN were engulfing the concert hall, like a welcomed downpour of rain during a summer drought, while I soaked it all in. I had such a grand time experiencing SATAN that it went by too fast! I wanted 2 more hours and I was in that zone! – stone
Swedish MANIAK will be releasing their new EP, “Speed Metal Terrorist”, on June 18th 2023 via Dawnbreed and De Nihil Records. Stream the single “Nocturnal Hellfire” at THIS LOCATION.
These young lunatics bring back the sound of Belo Horizonte 1985 mixed with the legendary German mid 80’s violent speed metal sound. Mastered by DanSwanö.
The very future of metal is always brought into question by those who dare to question the worthiness and talent of the younger generations. Such fools do not know what they’re missing out on with the sanctity and respect of the old school veins cared for even today by ferociously passionate and talented bands that will be more than adept at keeping that old flame burning strong. With “Speed Metal Terrorist”, MANIAK instantly proves itself to be an up-and-coming whirlwind of blackened speed metal that is not to be underestimated!
Not a single moment throughout this small but unyielding effort is to be swept to the side as we’re given an utterly compelling barrage of unbridled speed, ripping solos and intensity that only the passionate lost in the underground can bring forward, with a viciously raw production that is sure to capture the attention of those exclusively living in the past.
MANIAK is priming themselves to be a name that is not to be denied when it comes to speed metal that is more than worthy of our time, and “Speed Metal Terrorist” is sure to be the first testament as to why MANIAK will be more than competent to carry the torch of the old school when their time comes to bear it.
Heavy metal icons MERCYFULFATE today announce their first North American headlining tour in over two decades! The journey will commence on October 25th in Dallas, Texas and weave its way through fourteen cities, closing on November 16th in Atlanta, Georgia. The tour follows the band’s stunning headlining performance at this year’s edition of Psycho Las Vegas.
Vocalist King Diamond comments, “These will be the first MERCYFULFATE concerts in North American theaters in over twenty years. Memories of a lifetime. Your special chance to see MERCYFUL FATE with the full European festival production, but up close and personal. You cannot miss this… I hereby respectfully invite you to Come To The Sabbath by which you may free your soul and feast with us in the dark Of Night. Witches and Demons, you may come as you are! Satanic Regards – King Diamond 666.”
Support for MERCYFUL FATE will be provided by Kreator and labelmates, Midnight. Various presales are available throughout the week:
Citi Presale: Tuesday, September 6th @ 11:00am ET | Password: Citi BINs Mercyful Fate Fan Club Presale: Tuesday, September 6th @ 12:00pm ET | Password: EVIL Ticketmaster Presale: Wednesday, September 7th @ 10:00am ET | Password: MELISSA Live Nation Presale: Wednesday, September 7th @ 10:00am local time | Password: VENUE Blabbermouth Presale: Wednesday, September 7th @ 10:00am local time | Password: SABBATH Knotfest.com Presale: Wednesday, September 7th @ 10:00am local time | Password: OATH
All presales end Thursday, September 8th at 10:00pm local time. General onsale date is Friday, September 9th at 10:00am local time at mercyfulfatecoven.com. These shows will sell out! Don’t miss it!
Additionally, multiple limited VIP packages will be available which will include Meet & Greets, photo opps, private Q&As, exclusive merch, and more starting Wednesday, September 7th at mercyfulfatecoven.com. Secure yours today.
MERCYFUL FATE w/ Kreator, Midnight: 10/25/2022 Dallas, TX – The Factory 10/27/2022 Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre 10/29/2022 Inglewood, CA – Youtube Theater 10/30/2022 Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live Sacramento 11/01/2022 Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium 11/03/2022 Gary, IN – Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana 11/04/2022 Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J. Brady Music Center 11/05/2022 Detroit, MI – Masonic 11/08/2022 Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring 11/10/2022 Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theater 11/11/2022 Laval, QC – Place Bell 11/13/2022 Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall At Fenway 11/14/2022 Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia 11/16/2022 Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
MERCYFUL FATE is currently working on a new album and recently gave fans a taste of the new material when they debuted a song called “The Jackal Of Salzburg” in Germany this past June as well as at Psycho Las Vegas. The band’s current lineup is King Diamond on vocals, Hank Shermann and Mike Wead on guitars, Bjarne T. Holm on drums and Joey Vera on bass.
MERCYFUL FATE was formed in early 1981 in Copenhagen, Denmark by vocalist King Diamond and guitarist Hank Shermann. They were later joined by guitarist Michael Denner and bassist Timi Hansen, and soon thereafter drummer Kim Ruzz would join to complete the band lineup. The band recorded two demos in 1981 and later signed with Rave On Records in Holland for the recording of their successful self-titled EP, released in November of 1982. The Mercyful Fate EP was soon in heavy rotation around core metal radio stations, launching a new breed of heavy metal with their unique sound.
The band joined Roadrunner Records in 1983 and their debut full-length, Melissa, was recorded and released that same year. The following year, MERCYFUL FATE returned to the studio to record their now legendary Don’t BreakThe Oath full-length, released in September of 1984.
MERCYFUL FATE embarked upon a two month US tour in support of the record, which took them across the States several times sharing the stage with the likes of Motörhead and Exciter. The shows had created a brush fire within the metal community. The band reaped recognition globally, closing the year with a five-date tour in Germany with Motörhead, Girlschool, Helix, and Talon.
MERCYFUL FATE’s first concert of 1985 was in their hometown of Copenhagen at an old movie theater with a large capacity. The show sold out and their stage show exhibited a new level of distinction. The night was a huge victory and a new highlight for the band.
By April of 1985 however, MERCYFUL FATE decided to part ways for each to pursue new challenges. The King Diamond band was born and reaped critical acclaim the following years with five studio albums on Roadrunner Records. King Diamond has since signed with Metal Blade Records and is going stronger than ever before.
In the Summer of 1992, MERCYFULFATE decided to reunite and penned a new deal with Brian Slagel and his label, Metal Blade Records. In The Shadows was released in 1993 and was an instant triumph furthered by a sold out US tour.
MERCYFUL FATE has gone on to release another five studio albums and have toured Europe, the US, and South America multiple times. The highlight of 1999 was their critically acclaimed album 9 which was followed by a European tour with Metallica, where King Diamond and Hank Shermann joined the band onstage several times for the medley “Mercyful Fate” which Metallica had recorded on their Garage Inc. double tribute album the year prior. Tours in the US and in South America followed, marking the band’s last live performances for over a decade. MERCYFULFATE then went on hiatus, but made a brief appearance when members joined Metallica onstage in 2011 for their 30th anniversary show in San Francisco, California.
A public memorial for former Rigor Mortis and Warbeast vocalist BRUCE CORBITT will be held on Saturday March 9th at the Ridglea Theater in Fort Worth, Texas.
CORBITT passed away on January 25th following an extensive and tireless battle with esophageal cancer. He was 56 years old. CORBITT was diagnosed in May 2017 and kept his family, friends, and fans up to date with the many trials and tribulations of his journey through regular open and honest Facebook Live updates. A true inspiration, CORBITT remained hopeful and determined even in the face of some of the grimmest circumstances and maintained his courage, drive, and positive nature though his final days.
Beyond playing a pivotal rule within the thrash/speed metal scene for over thirty years, CORBITT was a dedicated hearthealth advocate following the passing of Rigor Mortis guitarist Mike Scaccia, who died of a heart attack in 2012. CORBITT, who himself struggled with heart disease, would go on to perform Rigor Mortis material with the band’s remaining members under the moniker Wizards Of Gore in tribute to Scaccia. CORBITT took home the Best Documentary Rotscar Award at Housecore Horror Fest 2014 for his Rigor Mortis Documentary Welcome To Your Funeral which documents the band’s earliest beginnings through their signing with Capitol Records in 1987 and had been working a book which will be released initially as a limited hardcore edition with all proceeds going to the support of the CORBITT family. Stay tuned for details.
Reads the public memorial page, “We will come together to celebrate and remember a great man who touched the hearts of so many people in this world. We will show our love and support for his wife Jeanna, his daughter Chyna, his stepson Lyric, and BRUCE‘s amazing mother Glenda. We will celebrate in the most beautiful way possible by honoring BRUCE‘s final wishes to make his memorial just the way he wanted it. Additional details on special presentations, guest musicians, and other surprises are still being worked out. Stay tuned and You Know Damn Well!”
Live performances requested by BRUCE:
Iron Jaw
Rabid Flesh Eaters MCs:
Debbie Sexxton of 97.1 KEGL
“Thrashin” Alan of KNON Hardtime Radio
Eulogies by:
Scott Shelby
Thrashin’ Alan
Casey Orr
Harden Harrison
CORBITT played what he thought would be his final show with Warbeast — a special set at the annual Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards Ceremony where the band was inducted into the 2018 Fort Worth Music Hall Of Fame — last July, at the time noting, “I’m really excited and thankful to the Fort Worth Weekly for showing us this much appreciation. I’m proud that I’m even feeling good enough right now to be able to attempt it. But I do know my limitations and I will be careful. All I know is I get to experience that feeling of being on stage again… and that’s why I keep on fighting. Because good things do finally happen if you can just hang in there long enough. You know damn well!”
The performance was outstanding and CORBITT continued showing signs of improvement. So much so, the band had planned to release a special Warbeast EP celebrating his strength and determination. Warbeast would play another show in October as headliners of Vulgarfest 3 at the Ridglea Theater where CORBITT again patrolled the stage against all odds. Some weeks later however, doctors found the cancer had spread again and CORBITT‘s health went on a steady decline. In CORBITT‘s honor, Warbeast will be releasing a box set which will include audio of first live show under the name Warbeast as well as video of that final Warbeast performance. Details to be released in the weeks to come.
View a live dedication to CORBITT from Philip H. Anselmo & The Illegals during a recent show in Santiago, Chile at THIS LOCATION.
CORBITT’s Warbeast bandmates reflect on his passing:
Scott Shelby: “BRUCE and I have been friends since the late ’80s and were early pioneers in the Dallas/Fort Worth metal scene and later joined forces to form Warbeast. BRUCE and I worked together as a team, or as he would say the dynamic duo. We both had a vision and our own skills to make it work and that’s how we did everything that you do in a band and it worked out great for us. Unfortunately, you don’t notice all the great things in a person until they die and what my friend did for Texas metal and our scene and branching out to the rest of the world is a huge loss in itself let alone all he did for others in need; doing many benefit gigs for various people… everything he and we did was done in a big style with flawless production! I could go on and on but all our peers in the business know what I’m talking about. There is a huge hole in my life, in our scene, and in the metal industry. He was a great man. I miss you, BRUCE. We had so much unfinished business. Rest in Beast.”
Joey “Blue” Gonzalez: “BRUCE CORBITT was my bandmate one of my best friends. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his help and guidance. He will always be with me on and off stage. We all will continue to share the music he created so the world will never forget. CORBITT Forever.”
Drew Shoup: “I was 17 years old and it was 2012. I was still in high school at a small ski resort town in Colorado called Crested Butte. There was absolutely no metal there and when Down/Warbeast came to Denver (which was five hours away) I knew I had to go. I hadn’t ever seen either band; I just knew of them through following Housecore. That was the night that completely changed my life. After experiencing it I knew that THAT was what I wanted to do. Warbeast was so high energy and instantly became my favorite band. I was obsessed. Fast forward two years later and they had lost their guitar player. This was my chance. I moved all the way from Colorado down to DFW just to try out and join this band. It was so surreal jamming along with these dudes that I idolized (and still do). BRUCE brought in a 19-year-old kid and pretty much a complete stranger to join his band. I know he had so many other choices in this town that he could’ve picked but he gave me a chance and had faith in me. BRUCE made me feel so welcome in the Dallas scene and made me feel like a part of a family. He truly cared about people and he was a great man. He was always doing benefit shows in the scene and always involved. Watching him struggle and suffer in pain was the worst thing I’ve experienced yet. Nobody deserves to go through that. Especially someone like BRUCE. Playing alongside him and working with him was absolutely surreal and a dream come true. He was such a great bandmate, brother, father, son, singer, friend, and person in general. I would do anything to play one more show with him. I feel for his wife Jeanna, his daughter Chyna, and his stepson Lyric. BRUCE is immortal now through his music in Warbeast and Rigor Mortis. He will be missed by everyone. Rest In Peace, Batman.”
Warbeast released their Enter The Arena full-length in 2017 Housecore Records. The record — which featured Corbitt and Shelby alongside then-new-members guitarist Drew Shoup and bassist Lyric Ferchaud — was recorded at Philip H. Anselmo’s Nodferatu’s Lair, mixed by Mike Thompson at the Riff Factory, and mastered by Lee Russell. For physical orders go to THIS LOCATION. For digital orders and to stream the record in full, go HERE.
LATEST Yngwie Malmsteen Tour Dates! AMERICA!!! Are you ready for Yngwie? The latest tour dates have just been announced!
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Stone says: My favorite Yngwie Malmsteen album is Trilogy, released back in 1986 on Polydor Records. Man, have I ever listened to that album over and over! A beyond memorable album for me. Trilogy inspired me through each major art project I had to create and complete on time, while back in college during the latter 80’s. Good times. Aw, hell, that album still inspires me to this day.
The great Mark Boals is the vocalist on Trilogy; along with brothers Jens (keyboards) and Anders Johansson (drums).
VENOM INC. will be touring Latin America this February, in support of their fiendish debut studio album: AVE’. Check out the dates, cities and venues above.
VENOM INC. are:
Tony “Demolition Man” Dolan – Vocals & Bass Mantas – Guitar Kling – Drums
Doyle Bright of Rigor Mortis and Hallows Eve fame has launched a new band: S.O.G. aka Special Operations Group.
Special Operations Group has signed with Hallows Eve Media and are currently recording their debut album entitled “If It Bleeds” in Atlanta, Georgia, with a release set for mid Summer of 2015.
S.O.G. has signed on to perform at the Maxima Distorzion Metal Awards in Houston, Texas, on June 18th 2015, where Doyle Bright will be receiving the Texas Metal Legends Award as well.
A YouTube link for the teaser cut of “If It Bleeds” is below:
A 2xCD collection of King Diamond songs, newly enhanced into ultimate editions by King Diamond and Andy LaRocque themselves, will be released by Metal Blade Records on November 11th.
King Diamond’s Dreams of Horror is the only “best of” album covering the band’s entire career. King Diamond and Andy LaRocque meticulously mastered and enhanced these 23 songs into the ultimate editions, chosen by the band from both the Roadrunner and Metal Blade catalogs.
“Dreams of Horror” will be available on November 10th. Listen to “The Puppet Master” from disc 2 of “Dreams of Horror” and pre-order a copy now at: http://goo.gl/MB4L1c
KING DIAMOND Dreams Of Horror – Track Listing:
DISC 1 – ROADRUNNER
The Candle
Dressed in White
The Family Ghost
Black Horsemen
Welcome Home
The Invisible Guests
At the Graves
Sleepless Nights
Let It Be Done
Eye of the Witch
Insanity
DISC 2 – METAL BLADE
Dreams
The Spider’s Lullabye
Waiting
Heads on the Wall
Voodoo
Black Devil
Help!!!
Spirits
The Puppet Master
Blue Eyes
Never Ending Hill
Shapes of Black
In other news, King Diamond vinyl has been made available throughout 2014. Currently, vinyl versions of Them, Abigail, The Eye, Fatal Portrait, and The Puppet Master are available now on the Metal Blade webshop. Conspiracy and In Concert will be coming this January! Copies of the vinyl are available now at: http://goo.gl/n6biQA
KING DIAMOND would like to welcome Jess And The Ancient Ones as the opening act for the North American tour this Fall.
Jess And The Ancient Ones, personally selected by KING DIAMOND himself to be the openers on the trek, is an occult rock band from Kuopio, Finland. This seven-headed entity was given birth by Thomas Corpse and Thomas Fiend, its purpose being the exploration of magical realms beyond the mundane. The band’s lyrical concept is based upon the personal occult experiences of the writers, which combined with music, creates a strong mystical atmosphere. With the vocal talent, Jess, as their frontwoman and three guitars in the lineup, JATAO draw inspiration from Heavy Metal and Rock groups of the classic era, such as Mercyful Fate, Roky Erickson, Iron Maiden and Abba.
Watch their latest video for “Astral Sabbat” on YouTube HERE. For more information, visit their official website at THIS LOCATION.
In other news, the Atlanta, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles shows on the tour are SOLD OUT! Additionally, only a handful of tickets remain for the Seattle date. Get your tickets now before they are gone!
KING DIAMOND W/ Jess And The Ancient Ones:
10/11/2014 Center Stage – Atlanta, GA (SOLD OUT)
10/13/2014 The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD
10/14/2014 Best Buy Theatre – New York, NY (SOLD OUT)
10/16/2014 The Palladium – Worcester, MA
10/17/2014 Olympia – Montreal, QC
10/18/2014 The Sound Academy – Toronto, ON
10/19/2014 Stage AE – Pittsburgh, PA
10/21/2014 The Vic Theatre – Chicago, IL (SOLD OUT)
10/22/2014 The Pageant – St. Louis, MO
10/24/2014 Paramount Theatre – Denver, CO
10/26/2014 The Complex – Salt Lake City, UT *
10/28/2014 The Moose Theatre – Seattle, WA
10/30/2014 The Warfield – San Francisco, CA (SOLD OUT)
10/31/2014 The Wiltern – Los Angeles, CA (SOLD OUT)
11/01/2014 House Of Blues – Las Vegas, NV
11/03/2014 Rialto Theatre – Tucson, AZ
11/05/2014 House Of Blues – Houston, TX
11/06/2014 House Of Blues – Dallas, TX Fun Fun Fun Fest
11/08/2014 Auditorium Shores – Austin, TX
*also with Visigoth
As stated on the Rigor Mortis – Indiegogo fundraising page:
Texas Speed Metal pioneers, Rigor Mortis are asking for your help to finance the recording and release of SLAVES TO THE GRAVE – their fourth and final album.
On Dec 23rd, 2012 we lost our brother and founding member, guitarist Mike Scaccia. Mike suffered a massive heart attack onstage with Rigor Mortis and died doing what he loved, playing his music with his friends and for his friends. Fortunately, just days before he left us, Mike was able to put the finishing touches on his tracks for what would unfortunately be his and Rigor Mortis’, final… and unquestionably finest, studio record.
Recorded in Feb 2012 at Ministry’s 13th Planet Studios in El Paso, Texas, STTG returns to the original first record line-up of Mike Scaccia – Guitars, Bruce Corbitt – Vocals, Harden Harrison – Drums, and Casey Orr – Bass.
After shopping the record for months, we found that with no hope of touring to support the record, and no chance of a follow-up album, labels were reluctant to release STTG. Though we received nothing but positive feedback, labels were fearful of not recouping their investment without an active band to promote the record. This, combined with the floundering record industry and sketchy economy, we decided we would be better off self releasing Slaves To The Grave, and reaching out to the Metal community to help us give this record the release it deserves.
In addition to the studio cd, the first 5,000 copies will include a “making of” dvd.
We have both physical and digital distribution in place, manufacturing facility secured, new and improved website and store launching, and high-profile record release events planned.
The record is finished, the cover art is amazing, release date is set for Oct. 7th, 2014. All we need is funding. We’re shooting for a goal of $20,000. The money will go towards paying off our recording debt (studio, engineers, travel, mastering), as well as artwork, packaging, manufacturing, distribution, and promotion. If we go past that goal, the money will go towards additional promotion, etc. as well as other Rigor Mortis projects such as re-pressing and re-releasing the back catalogue, vinyl releases, and new merch.
We’re offering a ton of cool incentives, like signed copies of the cd/dvd, LPs, posters, T-shirts, hoodys, patches, stickers, shot glasses, flasks, original artwork, merch bundles, and much more! We will keep adding rewards throughout the campaign.
So please, help if you can, and if moneys tight, then help us spread the word! We can’t wait for the world to hear what we feel is our greatest work – SLAVES TO THE GRAVE!
Thanks!
RIGOR MORTIS – HISTORY
Rigor Mortis formed in 1983 in Arlington, Texas and immediately became a driving force in the original wave of North Texas Metal. With the emphasis on speed and the subject matter steeped in horror and gore, Rigor stood out as extreme intimidators, on and off stage. Starting out as a 3 piece composed of Mike Scaccia on guitar, Harden Harrison on drums, and Casey Orr on bass, the band added vocalist Bruce Corbitt in ’86 and quickly signed to Capitol Records, releasing their classic self titled debut record in ’88. Two years later, Corbitt left the band and Doyle Bright came in on vocals. Rigor went on to release two more records; FREAKS, on Metal Blade Records and RIGOR MORTIS vs. THE EARTH, on Triple X Records.
In 1991 Mike accepted an offer to join Ministry as well as Revolting Cocks, et al. Rigor Mortis was no more, but the four members remained close friends and supported each others’ endeavors. Mike continued working with Ministry off and on over the years, as well as appearing on countless other projects. For the last several years Mike had also become a rep and clinician for Gibson Guitars. Casey Orr joined shock rockers, GWAR, where he remained off and on from ’94 until mid 2011, in addition to working with a long list of other bands including Blohole (with Scaccia), Speedealer (with Harrison), The Burden Brothers, and The Hellions, to name a few. Harden Harrison went on to play drums with Pervis, Speedealer, Mitra, and most recently Hint Of Death. Bruce Corbitt formed DFW supergroup, Texas Metal Alliance, which evolved into the mighty Warbeast, releasing 2010’s “Krush The Enemy”, and 2013’s “Destroy”, both on Phil Anselmo’s Housecore Records. Casey would join Warbeast in Feb. 2013. Doyle Bright is currently playing guitar with Atlanta Metal vets Hallows Eve.
In 2005, the original lineup of Scaccia, Orr, Harrison, and Corbitt reunited for was to be just a short run of shows. This, of course, led to more shows and talk of a new record. With all 4 members active with other projects and their personal lives, it took a while for the pieces to all fall into place, but in early February 2012, the band entered 13th Planet Studios in El Paso, and recorded their 4th album, SLAVES TO THE GRAVE.
On December 22nd, 2012, while playing onstage with Rigor Mortis in celebration of Bruce’s 50th birthday, Mike Scaccia suffered a sudden and massive heart attack. He was pronounced dead a short time later, after midnight on the 23rd. Rigor Mortis was over. The impact that Mike had on all that knew him is immeasurable. In life he touched us all with his talent and his sense of humor and his friendship. His passing changes everything for many of us. There will never be a fifth Rigor Mortis record. We will never play another show together as Rigor Mortis. Worst of all we’ll never laugh the way we used to.
But we will keep the flame burning. For Mike, for his family, for ourselves, and for the fans.
Shadow Kingdom Records have uncovered another gem from the U.S. 80’s Metal era. This time it’s a remastered reissue of The Awakening from U.S. Speed/Thrash Metal group POWERLORD, which will be released on August 19.
POWERLORD was one of those bands that popped up out of nowhere and completely fell off into obscurity. Out of all of the rare 80s US Metal diamonds, POWERLORD are arguably the very best at what they do. Their sound falls somewhere between SAVAGE GRACE and SLAYER and features professionally delivered, well written songs of the Speed/Thrash Metal variety. The Shadow Kingdom folks re-mastered the tracks directly from the original master tapes, but since a lot of the band’s memories were lost when High Vaultage Records (an obscure German label) tried to re-issue the album, there is not much in the way of bonus, band photos, or memorabilia that could be included. Intact however is the most important thing: the music! And it sounds amazing!
The Awakeningrepresents what 80’s Metal was all about. The potential to be a much bigger band was there. Alas, it wasn’t to be and POWERLORD was lost in the wave of thrash that spawned the likes of METALLICA. One spin of The Awakening and you too will ponder what could have been.
Stream The Awakening in its entirety, below:
More information on this and other Shadow Kingdom Records releases at this location.
INTOXICATED are from Osnabrück, a city in Lower Saxony, Germany. Their Rock ‘N Roll is Speed Metal; in the vein of old school, kick-ass Speed Metal that is! If you’re a fan of Motörhead, Raven or any 80’s denim & leather Metal, you’ll become an instant fan of Intoxicated. It’s that Metal simple. Intoxicated are the real underground Metal deal. Metal be thy name.
Virginia’s Speed Metal punks MUNICIPAL WASTE are proud to announce their first trek to New Zealand and their return to Australia!
Tony Foresta, vocalist for the band, shares: “I am really stoked to play New Zealand for the first time ever… Heaps!!! The first MUNICIPAL WASTE tour in Australia was one of my all-time favorite trips I’ve ever been on. I can’t believe we have never came back until now. I’m looking forward to seeing friends I kept in touch with over the years and as well as making new ones.”
Upcoming Tour Dates Are:
Thursday, June 13th: Auckland, NZ @ The Kings Arms Tavern
Friday, June 14th: Wellington, NZ @ The Hunter Lounge
Saturday, June 15th: Brisbane, AU @ The Hi Fi
Sunday, June 16th: Sydney, AU @ The Hi Fi
Thursday, June 20th: Adelaide, AU @ Fowlers Live (ALL AGES)
Friday, June 21st: Perth, AU @ The Rosemount Hotel
Saturday, June 22nd: Hobart, AU @ The Brisbane
Sunday, June 23rd: Melbourne, AU @ Corner Hotel – 2 shows: UNDER 18 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.; OVER 18 from 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
The cover artwork for MUNICIPAL WASTE’s fifth studio album – due out in North America on April 10th and in Europe on April 13th – was created by Justin Osbourn of Slasher Design.
MUNICIPAL WASTE:
Tony Foresta – Vocals
Ryan Waste – Guitar
Land Phil – Bass
Dave Witte – Drums
(Source: Nuclear Blast News)
* For more info on MUNICIPAL WASTE, click on the links below:
KING DIAMOND has recently teamed up with Nick Storch at ICM and Paul Ryan at The Agency Group.
Nick Storch will be in charge of booking KING DIAMOND concerts in North and South America, and Paul Ryan will be in charge of booking concerts in Europe and the rest of the world.
But that’s not all…!
In the past year King Diamond focused on the recovery from an open heart triple bypass surgery and is now going to return to the stage!
Yeah, that’s right:
KING DIAMOND will be headlining the Rock Stage at the Sweden Rock Festival on Saturday, June 9, 2012.
This will be the only show in Scandinavia in 2012!
As reported on Coven Worldwide, the Official Website of King Diamond & Mercyful Fate:
By King Diamond
January 16th, 2012
Hail to all of you,
It has just been confirmed that King Diamond has joined forces with Nick Storch at ICM and Paul Ryan at The Agency Group.
Nick Storch will be in charge of booking King Diamond concerts in North and South America, and Paul Ryan will be in charge of booking King Diamond concerts in Europe and Rest of World.
“It is great to be in the top professional hands of Nick and Paul. They both come highly recommended by Brian Slagel of Metal Blade, who personally suggested the partnership that is now in effect. ICM and The Agency Group have so much combined experience, which will open new doors for us. When it comes to getting us back on stage again, we all agree on how to bring King Diamond to a whole new level. Within a few weeks, we should be able to announce the first part of our plan.
WELCOME ON BOARD AND STAY HEAVY.” – King
“I can speak for the entire team here at ICM that we are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such a legend of heavy metal. I could not be happier to be involved with King Diamond’s return to the stage.” – Nick Storch
“It’s a huge honour, and one I and everyone here at The Agency Group shares, to be part of King’s team moving forward!… Being such an influence on the metal genre and an artist I have personally enjoyed and been inspired by for many years; it’s a very exciting time to be involved!” – Paul Ryan
King Diamond adds: “There’ll be a lot more great news coming the next couple of weeks. It’s been difficult keeping everything under wraps, but soon it will all be out in the open.
I want to thank you for your amazing patience.
We will get back to the Skype sessions in not too long as well.”
Stay Heavy,
King Diamond
* For more info on KING DIAMOND, click on the link below:
KING DIAMOND – Ever since King Diamond had undergone open heart triple bypass surgery last year (2010), I’ve been consistently checking in on http://www.covenworldwide.org, (the official website of King Diamond / Mercyful Fate) for any new and/or good news. Here is some good news I’ve found, from December 7th, 2011, regarding the legendary King Diamond, as quoted directly from http://www.covenworldwide.org:
Latest News
Greetings from the US
NEWS
by Ole Bang
2011-12-07
Hi all.
The last news posting is by now about one year old. It was in fact from 12/12 2010, and I would here just like to inform you that King is doing really well. A ‘real’ news post will be up very soon.
Stay tuned ! ! !
*Stone Says: Excellent words to read indeed! “King is doing really well”.
* Stay up-to-date on KING DIAMOND by clicking here: KING DIAMOND
MEGADETH – Founding member, guitarist and vocalist Dave Mustaine is once again leading his legendary Thrash Metal juggernaut known by all as MEGADETH, with TH1RT3EN. Releasing on November 1st, 2011 on RoadRunner Records, this will be studio album #13 for this pioneering Thrash band. TH1RT3EN marks the return of bassist and founding member: DaveEllefson. The last MEGADETH studio album Dave Ellefson played on was The World Needs AHero (2001).
TH1RT3EN has 13 songs (see track listing below). As part of The Big 4, (along with Metallica, Slayer and Anthrax), MEGADETH has become synonymous with not only the history of Thrash and Heavy Metal, MEGADETH is also synonymous with quality, consistency and perseverance.
TH1RT3EN – Track Listing:
Sudden Death
Public Enemy No. 1
Whose Life (Is It Anyways?)
We The People
Guns, Drugs & Money
Never Dead
New World Order
Fast Lane
Black Swan
Wrecker
Millennium Of The Blind
Deadly Nightshade
13
* For more info on MEGADETH, click on the links below:
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
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Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog 
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