On the weekend of April 20th, Heavy Music history was written at the New England Metal & Hardcore Festival in Worcester, Massachusetts. What exactly took place? Well, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE performed their first show with original vocalist Jesse Leach.
Yesterday (June 1st), KSE performed in front of thousands of fans at "Rock AM Ring" in Nürburgring, Germany. At the end of their performance, the band rocked their own version of DIO's "Holy Diver" in tribute of Ronnie James Dio. Check it out!
Leach sang on the band's first self-titled album, which came out in 2000, and on their landmark 2002 Roadrunner debut 'Alive Or Just Breathing'. Leach left the band in 2002 and was replaced by Howard Jones, but his work on 'Alive Or Just Breathing' has always been revered by diehard, longtime KILLSWITCH ENGAGE fans.
Here is some additional footage from the bands performance at "Rock AM Ring":
Upcoming Tour Dates:
- 6/8 Nickelsdorf, Austria @ Pannonia Fields II (Nova Rock)
- 6/15 Copenhagen, Denmark (Copenhell)
- 6/16 Gothenburg, Sweden (Metaltown)
- 6/22 Milan, Italy @ Arena Fiera Milano (Gods Of Metal)
- 6/24 Dessel, Belgium @ Festival Park ‘Stenehel’ (Grasspop)
Related links:
Official Site of Killswitch Engage
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Watch METALLICA's Entire Set At "Rock AM Ring" LIVE Right Now!
As part of The Road to Orion METALLICA are bringing you a special streamed performance of their SOLD OUT performance at Rock AM Ring in Nurburgring, Germany. Tune in right now!
METALLICA is performing "The Black Album" and getting you geared up for their upcoming performance at Orion Music + More on June 24th (get your tickets here).
Click here to watch METALLICA's "Rock AM Ring"
NILE's 'At The Gate Of Sethu' Available For Pre-order Now!
In case you missed this, Nuclear Blast Records are offering the headbangers of the world a FREE download of "The Fiends Who Come To Steal The Magick Of The Deceased", a brand NEW song from NILE's upcoming album 'At The Gate Of Sethu'! The song is available for legal download at NuclearBlast.de (-email sign-up required).
The follow-up to 2009's 'Those Whom The Gods Detest' was once again produced and mixed by Neil Kernon, who has previously worked with NEVERMORE, CANNIBAL CORPSE, QUEENSRŸCHE and DEICIDE, among many others. The CD artwork was handled by a true genius of darkened visuals, Seth Siro Anton (SOILWORK, PARADISE LOST, SEPTICFLESH).
Commented NILE mastermind Karl Sanders: "Seth Siro Anton has designed the cover. I have been a fan of SEPTICFLESH a long time, and as Seth expressed interest, I knew that he would deliver a great job. I would say his work is easily the best we've ever had. He has captured the darker side of the sound of NILE and reflected the music and ideas, the heart and soul of NILE are forming. Seth is a very talented man and understands exactly who we are."
'At The Gate Of Sethu' track listing (North American/European digipack):
01. Enduring The Eternal Molestation Of Flame
02. The Fiends Who Come To Steal The Magick Of The Deceased
03. The Inevitable Degradation Of Flesh
04. When My Wrath Is Done
05. Slaves Of Xul
06. The Gods Who Light Up The Sky At The Gate Of Sethu
07. Natural Liberation Of Fear Through The Ritual Deception Of Death
08. Ethno-Musicological Cannibalisms
09. Tribunal Of The Dead
10. Supreme Humanism Of Megalomania
11. The Chaining Of The Iniquitous
Bonus:
12. Enduring The Eternal Molestation Of Flame (instrumental)
13. The Inevitable Degradation Of Flesh (instrumental)
'At The Gate Of Sethu' track listing (European jewel case):
01. Enduring The Eternal Molestation Of Flame
02. The Fiends Who Come To Steal The Magick Of The Deceased
03. The Inevitable Degradation Of Flesh
04. When My Wrath Is Done
05. Slaves Of Xul
06. The Gods Who Light Up The Sky At The Gate Of Sethu
07. Natural Liberation Of Fear Through The Ritual Deception Of Death
08. Ethno-Musicological Cannibalisms
09. Tribunal Of The Dead
10. Supreme Humanism Of Megalomania
11. The Chaining Of The Iniquitous
During the bands recent tour stop in New York City with THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, SKELETONWITCH and HOUR OF PENNANCE, we had the chance to sit down and chat with NILE's own Karl Sanders. During the conversation we discussed the bands legacy, their NEW album 'At The Gate Of Sethu', and why he chooses to play DEAN Guitars! Are you ready? Grab a cold one and listen up!
Related links:
NILE on YouTube
Nuclear Blast Records
Paul Gray Featured On SLIPKNOT's Third Video Trailer For 'Antennas To Hell' (Greatest Hits Collection)!
SLIPKNOT have posted yet another cryptic video to Roadrunner Records’ Official website in anticipation of the release of a greatest hits collection titled 'Antennas To Hell' (set to be released on July 17th via Roadrunner Records). The third trailer features the late great Paul Gray (#2). Watch this teaser clip right now!
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In other SLIPKNOT news, Corey Taylor has confirmed that the group is finally "putting together demos" for its fifth major label album, which it is expected to begin recording next year for a mid-to-late 2013 release.
And don't forget that SLIPKNOT will be making their return to North American this summer as part of the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL! Here is the complete list of tour dates:
6/30 – San Bernardino, CA
7/1 – San Francisco, CA
7/3 – Seattle, WA
7/6 – Phoenix, AZ
7/7 – Albuquerque, NM
7/8 – Denver, CO
7/10 – Dallas, TX
7/11 – Houston, TX
7/13 – Tampa, FL
7/14 – Atlanta, GA
7/15 – Indianapolis, IN
7/18 – Oklahoma City, OK
7/20 – St. Louis, MO
7/21 – Chicago, IL
7/22 – Detroit, MI
7/24 – Cincinnati, OH
7/25 – Cleveland, OH
7/27 – Philadelphia, PA
7/28 – Pittsburgh, PA
7/29 – Washington, DC
7/31 – Saratoga, NY
8/1 – Buffalo, NY
8/3 – Boston, MA
8/4 – Scranton, PA
8/5 – Hartford, CT
Related links:
Slipknot
Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival
Livenation
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In other SLIPKNOT news, Corey Taylor has confirmed that the group is finally "putting together demos" for its fifth major label album, which it is expected to begin recording next year for a mid-to-late 2013 release.
And don't forget that SLIPKNOT will be making their return to North American this summer as part of the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL! Here is the complete list of tour dates:
6/30 – San Bernardino, CA
7/1 – San Francisco, CA
7/3 – Seattle, WA
7/6 – Phoenix, AZ
7/7 – Albuquerque, NM
7/8 – Denver, CO
7/10 – Dallas, TX
7/11 – Houston, TX
7/13 – Tampa, FL
7/14 – Atlanta, GA
7/15 – Indianapolis, IN
7/18 – Oklahoma City, OK
7/20 – St. Louis, MO
7/21 – Chicago, IL
7/22 – Detroit, MI
7/24 – Cincinnati, OH
7/25 – Cleveland, OH
7/27 – Philadelphia, PA
7/28 – Pittsburgh, PA
7/29 – Washington, DC
7/31 – Saratoga, NY
8/1 – Buffalo, NY
8/3 – Boston, MA
8/4 – Scranton, PA
8/5 – Hartford, CT
Related links:
Slipknot
Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival
Livenation
Friday, June 1, 2012
MORBID ANGEL Announce North American Tour With DARK FUNERAL!
The band is touring in support of their latest album, 'Illud Divinum Insanus' which was released by Season of Mist last year. The very controversial album is MORBID ANGEL's eighth studio release and is the first album in 16 years to feature bassist/vocalist David Vincent.
Morbid Angel with Dark Funeral and Grave tour dates:
- 7/ 6 Halifax, NS @ Spread the Metal Festival (Morbid Angel only)
- 9/21: Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade
- 9/22: Louisville, KY @ Headliner's Music Hall
- 9/23: Columbus, OH @ Screamin Willie's
- 9/24: Washington, DC @ Howard Theater
- 9/26: New York City @ B.B. King's
- 9/27: Pittsburgh, PA @ Altar Bar
- 9/28: Philadelphia, PA @ The Trocadero
- 9/29: Worcester, MA @ The Palladium
- 9/30: Montreal, QUE @ Club Soda
- 10/1: Toronto, ONT @ Opera House
- 10/2: Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's
- 10/4: Joliet, Il @ Mojoe's
- 10/5: St. Paul, MN @ Station 4
- 10/6: Des Moines, IA @ Peoples Court
- 10/7: Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theater
- 10/8: Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex
- 10/10: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon
- 10/11: Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theater
- 10/12: San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
- 10/13: Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades
- 10/14: Anaheim, CA @ The Grove
- 10/15: Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
- 10/17: Dallas, TX @ Trees
- 10/18: Houston, TX @ Scout Bar
- 10/19: San Antonio, TX @ Backstage Lounge
Morbid Angel is:
- Trey Azagthoth: guitar, guitar synthesizer, keyboards, backing vocals (1984–present)
- Pete Sandoval: drums, percussion (1988–present)
- David Vincent: bass guitar, lead vocals (1986–1996, 2004–present)
- Destructhor: guitar (2008–present)
- Tim Yeung: session drums (2010–present)
Related links:
Morbid Angel's Official Site
SHADOWS FALL: Brian Fair Talks About 'Fire From The Sky', The New England Music Scene & More!
The seventh studio album by New England Metallers Shadows Fall entitled 'Fire From The Sky' is coming for your ears this Tuesday, May 15th via Razor & Tie records. The NEW Shadows Fall album was recorded at Zing Studios in Westfield, Massachusetts with producer and friend of the band Adam Dutkiewicz, guitarist for Killswitch Engage and Times Of Grace. Adam D. was also involved in the writing process of the album. Click here to purchase the NEW Shadows Fall album 'Darkness From The Sky'
In support of "Fire From The Sky", Shadows Fall recently took part of the "Noise In The Machine Tour" with Fear Factory, The Browning, The Devasted, and Legacy Of Disorder. We were present at the tours last stop at The Gramercy Theatre in New York City and once again Shadows Fall proved to be one of the best bands to ever come from the New England region both on and off stage.
At the end of the night, we sat down with Brian Fair (vocalist) to discuss the bands NEW album "Fire From The Sky". During the conversation we touched upon the writing and recording process of the bands seventh studio album, as well as the roll of producerAdam D. (Killswitch Engage and Times Of Grace). We also discussed the rise of the New England Heavy Music scene and how staying relevant in today's musical spectrum is absolutely essential. Without further due, here is our interview with Brian Fall from Shadows Motherfuc*ing Goddamn Fall!
SKELETONWITCH Announce North American Tour Dates
Ohio Metal heathens SKELETONWITCH have announced plans to demolish North America this summer on a headlining tour, which will also feature classic rockers Barnburner (Metal Blade Records). The tour, which includes two weeks' worth of dates in Canada, will commence July 17 in York, Pennsylvania soon after the band return from a European tour during which they will play festivals alongside the likes of Slayer, Megadeth, and Behemoth. Complete dates are listed below.
SKELETONWITCH, who recently toured North America alongside The Black Dahlia Murder, will be out in support of their latest album 'Forever Abomination', as well as the recent vinyl reissues of their popular releases 'Breathing The Fire and Beyond The Permafrost'. Each LP is available in three different options – splatter, half-and-half and 180-gram black wax — and features gatefold Stoughton “tip-on” record jackets.
SKELETONWITCH European Tour Dates:
- 6/15/2012: Copenhell Festival in Copenhagen, Denmark
- 6/16/2012: Metal Town in Gothenburg, Sweden
- 6/18/2012: Comet Club in Berlin, Germany
- 6/19/2012: Gruenspan in Hamburg, Germany
- 6/20/2012: Luxor in Köln, Germany
- 6/22/2012: Graspop in Hasselt, Belgium
- 6/23/2012: Earshakerdays in Basel, Switzerland
- 6/25/2012: Durer Kert Small Hall in Budapest, Hungary
- 6/26/2012: Chelsea in Vienna, Austria
- 6/28/2012: Rock Café in Prague, Czech Republic
- 6/29/2012: With Full Force in Leipzig, Germany
- 6/30/2012: Sputnikhalle in Munster, Germany
- 7/01/2012: Open Air Metal in Tuska, Finland
SKELETONWITCH North American Tour Dates
with Barnburner:
- 7/14/2012: The Loft at the Chance in Poughkeepsie, NY
- 7/15/2012: Webster Underground in Hartford, CT
- 7/16/2012: Genos in Portland, ME
- 7/17/2012: Rock Café Le Stage in Trois Rivieres, QC
- 7/18/2012: Agitee in Quebec City, QC
- 7/19/2012: Il Motore in Montreal, QC
- 7/20/2012: Mavericks in Ottawa, ON
- 7/21/2012: Hardluck in Toronto, ON
- 7/22/2012: Frankies in Toledo, OH
- 7/23/2012: High Noon in Madison, WI
- 7/24/2012: Crocks in Thunder Bay, ON
- 7/25/2012: The Zoo in Winnipeg, MB
- 7/26/2012: Amigos in Saskatoon, SK
- 7/27/2012: Broken City in Calgary, AB
- 7/28/2012: The Pawn Shop in Edmonton, AB
- 7/30/2012: Biltmore Cabaret in Vancouver, BC
- 7/31/2012: The Hop in Spokane, WA
- 8/01/2012: Manny’s in Billings, MT
- 8/02/2012: Nestor Tavern in Fargo, ND
- 8/03/2012: The Warehouse in La Crosse, WI
- 8/04/2012: Mojoes in Joliet, IL
Like Satan himself set loose in the hallowed halls of Heavy Metal, SKELETONWITCH careen wildly through the music’s history, gleefully destroying and setting flame to every genre along the way, only stopping at the forefront of today’s metal scene to look back and watch that fucker burn — and then piss on the flames. No other band has tapped into the fire, fury, and frost of all things metal. Worship the ‘WITCH!
Related links:
PHILIP ANSELMO: "Every damn one of this songs on this NEW EP... we can nail em' suckers live. They're totally made for live!"
Recently, Artisan News conducted an interview with DOWN's Philip Anselmo (vocals) and Patrick Bruders (bassist) at this year's Rock On The Range festival, which took place on the weekend of May 18-20 at the Columbus Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.
As previously reported, NOLA's supergroup DOWN is scheduled to release four EP's dubbed as 'Down IV' throughout the next four years. During a recent interview the bands riff meister Kirk Windstein announced that the first EP, which contains six songs, should be out this summer! This is what Anselmo had to say about this:
"That's the idea right now, but I think that after you work on a body of music, you need to reload, you need to refresh, you need to clear your head. Get that, digest it, get it out of your system, and then decide what direction you're going to go. It's a good idea and I think we should see it through. But there's no way we can rush it. Because I think if it is a series of four, each one should be unique, and that… We've shown flexibility — we have songs like 'Bury Me In Smoke' and then we have songs like 'Stone The Crow'… acoustic pieces and what-not… We have all that. So we've touched on many, I guess, dynamics, so… I would expect each EP to have its own life."
Down's NEW EP will feature the following songs in no particular order:
- 'Levitation'
- 'Witchtripper'
- 'The Misfortune Teller'
- 'The Curse Is A Lie'
- 'Open Coffins'
- 'This Work Is Timeless'
DOWN US Tour With HAARP & RED FANG:
June:
1 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - The Culture Room
2 - Tampa, FL - Scion Rock Fest
Related links:
SPINESHANK Announce Comeback Tour; Band To Release NEW Album 'Anger Denial Acceptance'!
Grammy nominated alt-Metal group SPINESHANK has announced that they will be heading out on their first headlining tour in over 6 years! Making up for the long absence from the road, the band has set dates for a lengthy tour spanning nearly two months. Support bands will be announced shortly and a list of confirmed dates can be seen below.
June marks a huge month for SPINESHANK. Not only will the band embark on their first tour in years, SPINESHANK will also be releasing their brand NEW album 'Anger Denial Acceptance' on June 19 in North America via Century Media Records. The album is the their first studio release in nearly a decade, and a blistering return to form for the band, who were nominated for a Grammy in the Best Metal Performance category in 1994. "This is by far the proudest I have ever been of any SPINESHANK record," says guitarist Mike Sarkysian. "'Anger Denial Acceptance' is the darkest and the most honest this band has ever been."
The first single from 'Anger Denial Acceptance', "Nothing Left For Me," can be heard here:
The track is also available for purchase on iTuneshere.
Headlining Tour Dates:
06/14/12 - Las Vegas, NV @ The Bunkhouse
06/15/12 - Salt Lake City, UT @ In The Venue (Club Sound)
06/16/12 - Denver, CO @ Moe's
06/18/12 - Wichita, KS @ Lizard Lounge
06/19/12 - Lincoln, NE @ Knockerbockers
06/20/12 - St. Paul, MN @ Station 4
06/21/12 - Merriam, KS @ Aftershock
06/22/12 - Des Moines, IA @ Vaudeville Mews
06/23/12 - Fargo, ND @ The Nestor Tavern
06/24/12 - Duluth, MN @ Clyde Iron
06/27/12 - Steger, IL @ Another Hole In The Wall
06/28/12 - Peoria, IL @ The Brass Rail
06/29/12 - Flint, MI @ Machine Shop
06/30/12 - Battle Creek, MI @ Planet Rock
07/01/12 - Fort Wayne, IN @ Hammerhead's
07/03/12 - St. Louis, MO @ The Fubar
07/05/12 - Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's
07/06/12 - Dayton, OH @ McGuffy's
07/07/12 - Toledo, OH @ Headliners
07/08/12 - Rochester, NY @ Montage Music Hall
07/10/12 - Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Loft
07/11/12 - Queens, NY @ The Hall Of Fame Music Gall
07/12/12 - Manchester, NH @ Rockos
07/13/12 - Providence, RI @ The Ruins
07/14/12 - Baltimore, MD @ Recher Theatre
07/15/12 - Trenton, NJ @ Championship
07/18/12 - Spartanburg, SC @ Ground Zero
07/19/12 - Marietta, GA @ 120 Tavern and Music Hall
07/20/12 - Longwood, FL @ Shovel Heads
07/21/12 - Jacksonville, FL @ Brewsters Pit
07/22/12 - Satellite Beach, FL @ Sports Page
07/25/12 - Dallas, TX @ Trees
07/27/12 - Harker Heights, TX @ Amis
08/01/12 - Farmington, NM @ Top Deck
08/02/12 - Phoenix, AZ @ Rocky Point Cantina
08/03/12 - West Hollywood, CA @ Whisky A Go Go
01. After The End
02. Nothing Left For Me
03. Anger Denial Acceptance
04. I Want You To Know
05. Murder Suicide
06. The Endless Disconnect
07. I Am Damage
08. Ploratio Morbus
09. Everything Everyone Everywhere Ends
10. The Reckoning
11. God Complex (Anger)
12. Motive Method Opportunity (Denial)
13. Exit Wounds (Acceptance)
Related links:
LITA FORD: NEW Single To Be Premiered Tonight On Eddie Trunk's Q104.3 Radio Show!
Metal Icon LITA FORD is gearing up for the release of her NEW album 'Living Like A Runaway', which will be unleashed June 19th in North America via SPV/Steamhammer. The album will be available in four configurations: a double LP, limited edition CD, standard CD and digital download.
Tonight Eddie Trunk will be exclusively premiering a song from 'Living Like a Runaway' on his radio show "Friday Night Rocks" which airs live from 11:00 PM - 2:00 AM EST on Q104.3 in New York. For those that are out of the New York area, the show can be accessed via the iHeartRadio app, by selecting Q104.3 NYC. For more information on the iHeartRadio app, visit http://www.iheartradio.com.
LITA FORD has teamed up with producer Gary Hoey and lyricist Michael Dan Ehmig to work on 'Living Like a Runaway'. Together the team invested a lot of time and effort into this kick ass project: "We worked on the lyrics intensively to really give the songs a lot of meaning and that special emotional depth. I think that these are some of the best lyrics ever, period. FORD is referring to numbers such as "Devil In My Head", "Hate", and "The Asylum" which see her bare her soul in a way which she has never done before.
Unlike many albums today, 'Living Like a Runaway' is an album that truly must be heard in its entirety from start to finish. "Listeners shouldn't pick out individual tracks but listen to the full album," says FORD. "It's a fascinating musical journey, inspired by Pink Floyd's 'Dark Side of the Moon'. I had seen a documentary about 'Dark Side of the Moon' and it really motivated me to focus on 'Living Like a Runaway' as a whole journey rather just an individual song.
Coinciding with the album's release, LITA is hitting the road this summer with Def Leppard and Poison on the "Rock of Ages Tour". All dates for the tour including the newly announced second leg can be found below.
Following the demise of the Runaways, LITA FORD concentrated on her own career and now looks back on many memorable hits including: the chart topping duet with Ozzy Osbourne "Close Your Eyes Forever" "What Do You Know About Love", "Shot Of Poison", "Larger Than Life" and "Kiss Me Deadly". With the release of Living Like A Runaway, expect many more songs to be added to the list of hits.
LITA FORD on Tour With Def Leppard and Poison:
6/20: Salt Lake City, UT @ USANA Amphitheater
6/22: Irvine, CA @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
6/23: Las Vegas, NV @ Red Rock Amphitheater
6/25: Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center
6/27: Kansas City, MO @ Sprint Center
6/29: Atlanta, GA @ Aaron's Amphitheater at Lakewood
6/30: Tampa, FL @ Tampa Bay Time Forum
7/2: Cincinnati, OH @ Riverbend Music Center
7/3: Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena
7/6: Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena
7/7: Detroit, MI @ DTE Energy Music Theater
7/10: Baltimore, MD @ Merriweather Pavilion
7/11: Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
7/13: Wantagh, NY @ Nikon at Jones Beach Pavilion
7/16: Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre
7/17: Hamilton, ON @ Copps Coliseum
7/19: Chicago, IL @ Allstate Arena
LEG 2:
8/9: Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Bank Atlantic Center
8/11: Charlotte, NC @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
8/12: Virginia Beach, VA @ Farm Bureau Live
8/14: Pittsburgh, PA @ First Niagara Pavilion
8/15: Hershey, PA @ Hershey Park Stadium
8/17: Buffalo, NY @ Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
8/18: Boston, MA @ Comcast Center
8/20: Saratoga Springs, NY @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center
8/22: Bangor, ME @ Bangor Waterfront
8/24: Indianapolis, IN @ Klipsch Music Center
8/25: St. Louis, MO @ Chaifetz Arena
8/28: Des Moines, IA @ Wells Fargo Arena
8/29: Lampe, MO @ Black Oak Mountain Amphitheater
8/31: Oklahoma City, OK @ Zoo Amphitheater
9/1: Houston, TX @ Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
9/3: Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center
9/4: Austin, TX @ Cedar Park Center
9/11: Albuquerque, NM @ Sandia Casino Amphitheater
9/12: Tucson, AZ @ Anselmo Valencia Amphitheater
9/14: Concord, CA @ Sleep Train Pavilion
Standard Jewel Case Version:
1. Branded
2. Hate
3. The Mask
4. Living Like A Runaway
5. Relentless
6. Mother
7. Devil In My Head
8. Asylum
9. Love 2 Hate U
10. A Song To Slit Your Wrists By
Related links:
Official Site of Lita Ford
Steamhammer SPV
FEAR FACTORY's NEW Sonic Assault 'The Industrialist' Out In Europe Today!
FEAR FACTORY's eighth studio album 'The Industrialist' is out in Europe today (June 1st) and due in North America this Tuesday, June 5 via Candlelight Records. Once again the industrial Metallers have come up with a conceptual record based around a story written by vocalist Burton C. Bell. Lyrics to the album's ten songs divulge the narrative as discussed recently by Bell on the interview below. The album's artwork was created by American designer Anthony Clarkson with additional direction from the band. The album will be available on three formats — standard CD, a limited edition deluxe digi-book (featuring two additional songs), and 180-gram double vinyl.
'The Industrialist' follows the 2010 release of 'Mechanize'. Widely regarded, the album was the first release from FEAR FACTORY in six years. 'Mechanize' debuted on Billboard’s Top 100 album chart week of release and topped CMJ’s Loud Rock radio chart as programmers embraced the band’s triumphant return. Sirus XM and Headbangers Ball’s host Jose Mangin noted, “after Mechanize dominated 2010 as Liquid Metal’s Album Of The Year, North America is chompin’ at the bit to get an ear full of new FEAR FACTORY. I have no doubt that FEAR FACTORY are going to kick our collective asses in 2012.”
The Industrialist Track Listing:
1. The Industrialist
2. Recharger
3. New Messiah
4. God Eater
5. Depraved Mind Murder
6. Virus of Faith
7. Difference Engine
8. Dissemble
9. Religion is Flawed Because Man is Flawed
10. Human Augmentation
11. Blush Response (Difference Engine) *
12. Landfill *
* (available on deluxe digi-book only)
Related links:
Fear Factory
Update On The Passing Of Michael Grant, Vocalist Of ONWARD & CRESCENT SHIELD
As reported late last night, singer Michael Grant (ONWARD & CRESCENT SHIELD) has passed away. Grant passed away on May 31, 2012 at Glendale Memorial Hospital in Glendale, CA after a relatively brief but serious illness. He was 39 years old. Here is a heart felt message from one of Grant's band mates:
"Today I have lost a dear and close friend, a
band mate, and a heavy metal brother. Michael Grant passed away on May
31, 2012 at Glendale Memorial Hospital in Glendale, CA after a
relatively brief but serious illness. He was 39 years old. He was
peaceful and surrounded by family at the time of his passing. Michael
recorded and toured with several bands throughout his career most
notably Onward on Century Media Records and more recently Crescent
Shield on Cruz del Sur Music.
"Michael’s rich and powerful baritone and clean
melodic vocal style made him a distinct voice in Heavy Metal. He was
known for crafting memorable vocal hooks and layered harmonies. He
often weaved multiple vocal phrases together creating a complex and
striking tapestry of vocal melodies. Perhaps most notable however was
the passion Mike sang with. He could evoke the strength and
grandiloquence of the mightiest metal warrior or the mournful atmosphere
of a passing life.
Mike was more than just a singer though. He was
a greatly talented songwriter and lyricist. Although he didn’t play
an instrument, he would often write complete songs by humming guitar
lines and vocalizing drum beats. His lyrics were profound, evocative
and often personal. He was a true lover of Heavy Metal and would sing
its praises with a sense of poetry and grandeur. No matter the topic:
journeys into the unknown, the choices we make in life, religious dogma,
or a crimson moonrise, Mike always delivered a moving message with
unique elegance.
Writing, recording, and performing music with
Mike in Crescent Shield was a joy. We were in synch creatively and
complimented each other’s abilities very well. We produced music for
the love of it. We performed for the love of it. Crescent Shield’s
pinnacle performance at Keep It True 08 in Germany was a dream come true
for both of us.
Working with Mike was the most creatively rewarding experience of my life. Although the band has been on hiatus for a while, Mike and I still were writing new material and his voice and creative energies were still in top form. Losing him at such a young age is both shocking and tragic. I will miss my musical companion, my Metal brother, and my friend.
Our condolences go out to Michael's family, friends, bandmates and all the ONWARD/CRESCENT SHIELD fans.
Related links:
ONWARD on MySpace
Crescent Shield.com
The DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT & KATATONIA To Co-headline The "Epic Kings & Idols Tour"; PARADISE LOST Tapped As Direct Support!
In regards to this upcoming trek, Devin Townsend comments: "So after a break in which we've managed to finish the live DVDs from the London shows ('By A Thread') as well as our surprisingly epic NEW record, 'Epicloud'... We're about to start getting into touring mode again, and it pleases me to announce that we'll be with some wonderful bands this Fall. I think this package pretty much covers the gamut of emotional Heavy Music, and really... It'll be nice to share the stage with some passionate folks who live for their music as much as we do. Again, we can't thank you enough for supporting what we do and allowing us to play for you. It will be nice to catch up, and we hope to see you there!"
KATATONIA's Anders Nystrom adds: "A better bill than this will be hard to find!"
Renowned multi-instrumentalist Devin Townsend will be touring in support of DTP's forthcoming CD/DVD-set, By A Thread - Live in London 2011, due out June 19th (InsideOut Music)-- as well as the next chapter in DTP's career, Epicloud, set to be released on Sept 18th (InsideOut Music).
KATATONIA, the Swedish purveyors of dark Rock/Metal return with their 9th studio album, 'Dead End Kings', on August 28th (Peaceville Records). A continuation of 2009's inspired and acclaimed 'Night is the New Day', as well as a leap forward into the unknown, 'Dead End Kings' sees the quintet conjure yet another milestone in audial melancholy and angst.
After gracing the June cover of Decibel Magazine and recently releasing their 13th studio album, 'Tragic Idol' (Century Media), to critical acclaim, gothic/doom metallers PARADISE LOST will be coming back to the States for their first North American tour in five years! To celebrate the occasion, the band will also be reissuing six titles via The End Records on August 28th.
Dates for the "Epic Kings & Idols Tour" are below, so check to see when the DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT, KATATONIA, PARADISE LOST, and STOLEN BABIES will be coming to a city near you! The VIP pre-sale begins Wednesday, June 6th; tickets will be available to the general public starting Thursday, June 7th.
Sept. 4--Seattle, WA--Studio 7
Sept. 5--Vancouver, BC--Commodore
Sept. 7--San Francisco, CA--Great American Music Hall
Sept. 8--Los Angeles, CA--El Rey Theater
Sept. 9--Phoenix, AZ--Marquee Theater
Sept. 11--Houston, TX--Warehouse Live Studio
Sept. 12--Dallas, TX--Trees
Sept. 13--Lawrence, KS--Granada
Sept. 14--Denver, CO--Summit
Sept. 16--Minneapolis, MN--Station 4
Sept. 17--Chicago, IL--Bottom Lounge
Sept. 18--Pittsburgh, PA--Mr. Smalls
Sept. 19--Toronto, ON--Opera House
Sept. 20--Montreal, QC--Cafe Campus
Sept. 21--Worcester, MA--Palladium
Sept. 22--Philadelphia, PA--TLA
Sept. 23--New York, NY--Irving Plaza
Sept. 24--Baltimore, MD--Rams Head Live
Related links:
Sad News: Michael Grant From ONWARD Passes Away!
It has been confirmed by Century Media Records, that singer Michael Grant (ONWARD) has passed away. The cause of death is undetermined as of right now, but stay tuned as this very sad news develops. Our condolences go out to Michael's family, friends, bandmates and all the ONWARD fans.
Here is an interview that Metal Forum conducted with Michael in 2001:
Ultimate Metal: Could you tell me how Onward got started?
Michael Grant: Sure, the guitarist Toby Knapp he was a solo artist for a long time. He did put out one record for Shrapnel Records in 1992 called "Guitar Distortion" which was just an instrumental. It got some good press and a little bit of a cult following and sold reasonably well. After that he kept doing these little projects, like one for Defiled Records called Dargon. But he never got around to what he wanted to do which was to make a proper power metal band. So he finally hooked up with two guys from Billings, Montana Jon and Randy. They got together and wrote eight power metal songs. They did not have a singer at the time but they just went ahead and wrote it. They were funded by a small label to record the band in Denver. Then they heard me through Sentinel Steel Records who also did Defiled Records and that's how the connection was all set up with the album Legend Maker. They said "This guy would be perfect, this is the kind of guy we are looking for". So they gave me a call and sent me the tape and I immediately fell in love with it. I just really thought that the music was awesome and then I said "Can I go ahead and write lyrics" and they said, "Yeah go ahead". One month later all the lyrics were done, they sent me the tapes and I recorded my vocals here in LA. That's when Sentinel Steel was about to release it and then Century Media heard it and then they wanted to release it. So they bought out Sentinel Steel. That's how the band got started. When all that happened I said to myself that I am not going to look at this as a project instead I am going to look it as a real band.
UM: What was the original release date of Evermoving?
MA: It was going to be released about a year ago on Sentinel Steel Records but since there was a lot of legal issues, the album was about shelved for about a year. That's why it took so long.
UM: You mentioned Legend Maker, how was that experience for you?
MA: It was OK. I was really a hired gun for that. They live in Columbia and they wanted an English speaking and sounding vocalist. So they basically told me what to do. I had very little creative input on it. They said sing it this way, translate the lyrics etc. It was good music, I enjoyed singing for them but in terms of creativity it was very limited.
UM: What sort of music is Legend Maker?
MA: Legend Maker is very Euro-power metal like Helloween and Gamma Ray. A lot of double bass, a lot of long songs, things like that.
UM: What did you do before Legend Maker?
MA: Before Legend Maker I was briefly in a band called New Eden. I was also in a local band here in LA called Ocean Seven for a while. Which basically was just something to get my chops off, just to do something. Before that I lived in Connecticut and I was in a band called Morpheus. All of those projects I really never went ahead with, there were just things I did that got me connections. But none of them were very successful.
UM: So has Century Media treated you guys?
MA: Oh God! They are awesome! I can't believe the amount of attention they give us. I mean I have heard horror stories from other bands in Metal Blade and Nuclear Blast, just what they have gone through and how ignored they were. I feared that was going to happen to us but it has been much the opposite. All those rumors have been shattered to hell because they give us interviews, advertising, they spread the word and they give us full support. The amount of support is incredible and I can't praise them enough for it.
UM: I have heard some similar rumors so it's great that they have been doing so much for Onward?
MA: In my perspective maybe for Century Media this is their normal practice or maybe they really believe in us and they want to give us a good push. I have no complaints.
UM: You played at the ProgPower festival, how was that?
MA: That was really good. That was an experience that was a lot better than I thought it would be. Since we are so new and so unknown I thought we were going to go up and play and disappear. But we went up and played our hearts out. So, for the rest of the weekend people were interested in us and kept coming up to us. They bought our CD until it sold out. It was very successful. I am really happy about it.
UM: Did you play all the songs from the album?
MA: No, we played six songs and then we played a new song from our upcoming album and we played a cover song Loudness' "The Clockwork Toy ".
UM: Did you get a chance to see any of the other bands at the ProgPower festival?
MA: Yeah, my friend's band Destiny's End. I am a fan of theirs and I saw their set. I watched Jag Panzer's set and all the other bands I just sort of looked at for a few songs and then I had to get back to promote Onward. So I did get a chance to catch a little of everyone's set.
UM: Was that your first live show?
MA: No, we have had others shows before. We had scattered things but we never really had a tour.
UM: Are there plans for a tour?
MA: It's been such a "Yes No" thing for the past few months and the plans keep changing. We were first submitted to Lizzy Borden and they really wanted us but they got the Yngwie gig and he stepped up to that. We have been submitted to Savatage/Fates Warning but its about to start and we haven't heard anything. I think what the label wants us to do now honestly is to do some festivals and sort of get a meet and great introduction type shows going. Then go back to the studio and crank out our next album and then seriously get behind a tour. But you never know, if something pops up we are ready to go.
UM: What's the timetable for the new album?
MA: At first they wanted us to go to the studio in May but that has been pushed back. I actually think we will go into the studio in late summer or fall. So we can do these promotions dates. It will be recorded in 2001 for a 2002 release. We are really happy about that.
UM: I am definitely looking forward to the new album?
MA: Yeah, its going to be a good album. Its called Reawaken. Its a little bit longer, a little bit more dynamic but it has the Onward sound. If you like the first album then you will love this album. We put a lot of heart into this. It's also heavier. The whole album is already written and all we have to do is record it. The writing process is the same. Toby writes all the music and then he gets together with Jon and Randy and they sort of arrange it and put their little flair to it. After the music is all done they send it to me and I write all the vocals and lyrics.
UM: What inspires you when you write lyrics?
MA: Well, I like to keep it on the surface. Whatever I am feeling that day, something that might be on my head that I want to get on paper. I like writing about three main areas, like thematic elements. For example, the thematic element of Evermoving is constant motion. Something is always moving and happening that is why I called it Evermoving. Another one is the fantasy element. I just create my own stories which is kind of cool because it allows me to get all these strange fantasy and sci-fi ideas out of my head. Then the third one is taking from already written literature and movies and then sort of building on that. So those are my three main areas. But in terms of my thematic and personal philosophies I like to keep it on the surface, keep it non-religious. Make it a little poetic and metaphoric but try not to alienate the audience. Kind of give it a tongue-in-cheek.
UM: How would you describe the sound of Onward because to me it does not sound like most of the power metal bands out there?
MA: To be honest I really don't like the term power metal to be associated with Onward. In fact, not to be a jerk or anything, I really think we have a heavy metal sound. It is very traditional but we are not trying to sound 80's, we are not trying to sound European, we are not trying to sound like a specific genre. What we are trying to do is keep the fire of good old traditional heavy metal alive, through shredding guitars, cool vocals and good rhythm. So I would just describe it as good old fashioned heavy metal that is guitar based.
UM: I read somewhere that you really don't like the term "80's metal" for Onward?
MA: I really don't like that because that means that you sound like a specific time.
UM: I was actually guilty of that in my review of Evermoving?
MA: (Laughs) Its ok. I read your review, thanks for the kudos because you just went on and on. Nobody seems to like Toby's solos so its cool you did. The thing that I am really happy to hear is that it's catchy. Its make you want to hear the song over again and that is what I tried to do.
UM: Do you guys have an official website?
MA: Yep, its still being tinkered with but its called www.evermoving.com. Its up but its not quite finished. Some guy in Montana is doing it for us.
UM: What bands influenced you?
MA: I listen to a lot of bands that have good vocalists. The classic examples are Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Queensryche. But I also love a lot of other stuff that has influenced me like for instance a band that I really like is Overkill. I think Bobby "Blitz" has such amazing presence and his diction is just incredible. I fucking love it. I also like Warrel Dane from Nevermore and Sanctuary. He does some things with his voice that a lot of people just don't hearing it anymore. He is one of the few baritone melodic metal singers. I am sort of with a small company. There's me, Warrel, Zachary Stevens of Savatage: he has a great baritone voice. Instead of being the high-pitched screamers that you hear coming out of Europe.
UM: It's a shame about Zachary Stevens leaving Savatage?
MA: I know. It's a bummer but oh well. He put out some great albums for us to enjoy.
UM: When you aren't focused in music what else do you do?
MA: Well, my day job involves the movie business. Which is another big hobby of mine. I love movies. I love going to them and seeing all kinds. I work for a Market Research firm that does market research work for film studios. So I am involved with that. I also love to travel. I love going to see new places. Which is what I hope Onward will allow me to do.
UM: Do you have a favorite for Best Picture?
MA: I really hate the movie Chocolat. When I saw that I was like "You've got to be kidding". Then it got nominated. I really hope "Traffic" wins it. That was such a cool movie. Benicio del Toro was just awesome. You have to check it out; it's really cool. (Editors Note - I still haven't seen it)
UM: I really hope Gladiator wins it (Ed's Note - It did!).
MA: Gladiator is cool too but I don't know if it will win Best Picture but I think Russell Crowe is a good actor and it will get all the technical awards like Special Effects. That movie was really cool too.
UM: Do you have any last words?
MA: What I have been saying all along is that I know we are new, I know we have come out of nowhere. I just hope that people give us a chance. If you like it pass along to a friend, if you don't that's cool. There are a lot of bands I don't like. If you do like it, come see us live on tour because another big thing we want to push is bring back the live show. The live heavy metal concert experience. We really want that alive again. I noticed that in a lot of gigs you see four guys play the album and I it's like "what's the big deal there?"We want to bring the concert going experience back where everyone in the place is charged, fired up, screaming along with the songs. Just the way it was in the old days.
UM: Kind of like an Iron Maiden show?
MA: Yeah where everyone is jumping up and down and they all sing and totally enjoy themselves. So check us out live and thanks for all the support.
UM: I hope to see you guys live soon?
MA: Hopefully in may we do a live show here in LA. Maybe set up a gig with Destiny's End, make it a real good heavy metal night.
Related links:
ONWARD on MySpace