Horns Up Rocks: 1/29/12

Saturday, February 4, 2012

LACUNA COIL To Perform Acoustic Set At Meet-And-Greet In Chicago!

In support of their NEW release, 'Dark Adrenaline', LACUNA COIL will perform an acoustic set and meet-and-greet with their fans at the Cobra Lounge in Chicago on February 10th! Presented by Metal Army America and Unholy Empire, this special night with the band is open to the public and will take place after their performance at Gigantour that night (tickets will be given on a first come, first serve basis; you must be 21+ to receive entry into the club). For more information, please visit the official event page below.

If you haven't heard LACUNA COIL's 'Dark Adrenaline' yet, be sure to head over to Spin.com now for the exclusive album stream. Having already earned rave reviews from the press, with Outburn avowing, "LACUNA COIL knocks one out of the park with 'Dark Adrenaline'... it is an album without filler and one for which start to finish spins are mandatory", this album promises to be yet another gothic-Metal classic!

Fans both old and NEW can purchase 'Dark Adrenaline' in a variety of formats, including standard edition CD and vinyl, Deluxe Edition digipak with a bonus DVD, sticker, poster and guitar pick and as an iTunes LP with expanded packaging, five bonus audio tracks and video. The Metal Club (www.mymetalclub.com) edition features exclusive artwork designed by the band and is limited to 3000 units. The Hastings edition features a bonus 10-track LACUNA COIL sampler, and the Amazon digital edition comes with a free five track sampler.

For true fans of the band, the 'Darkest Adrenaline' box set is also available for purchase. It includes both the Digipak and vinyl versions of the album along with a hardcover photo book, a LACUNA COIL custom syringe pen and ink, a lyric pad, signed lithographs created by the band and more, all housed in a LACUNA COIL medical box. This box set is limited to 500 pieces and is available exclusively through CM Distro.

As previously announced, LACUNA COIL is currently on the road with Megadeth on their critically-acclaimed Gigantour in celebration of the release of 'Dark Adrenaline'. Gigantour was founded by Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine in 2005; this run will also feature Motorhead and Volbeat. Please see below for the remaining tour dates, which also include a few LACUNA COIL headlining shows.

"Gigantour" 2012, featuring Megadeth, Motörhead, Volbeat, and Lacuna Coil! Remaining tour dates!

February:

5 – K-Rock Centre – Kingston, ON
7 – General Motors Centre – Oshawa, ON
8 – Copps Coliseum – Hamilton, ON
9 – Palace of Auburn Hills – Auburn Hills, MI
10 – Aragon Ballroom – Chicago, IL
12 – Eagles Ballroom – Milwaukee, WI
14 – Myth – St. Paul, MN
16 – Prairieland – Saskatoon, SK
17 – Shaw Conference Centre – Edmonton, AB
18 – Big 4 Building – Calgary, AB
20 – Abbotsford Ent & Sports Centre – Abbotsford, BC
21 – Showare Center – Kent, WA
23 – Event Center at San Jose State University – San Jose, CA
24 – Gibson Amphitheatre – Universal City, CA
25 – Comerica Theatre – Phoenix, AZ
26 – Tingley Coliseum – Albuquerque, NM
28 – The Fillmore Auditorium – Denver, CO

Video credit: Steve Lars from Creative Ventures International & Steve Lars on Facebook

Friday, February 3, 2012

Tommy Vext Talks About His NEW Project With Members Of Mutiny Within At The Lamb Of God Afterparty!

During Lamb Of God's after party at Billy Hurricane's in New York City, which took place right after the band unleashed their NEW CD entitled 'Resolution', Tommy Vext (former singer of Divine Heresy and Snot) announced a brand NEW musical project that he formed with members of Mutiny Within and guitar virtuoso Angel Vivaldi. Tommy's NEW band is appropriately called VEXT and it promises to be a complete different sonic approach than any of the previous projects that he or his band-mates have been part of.

The musical direction of the band combines elements of Pantera, Alice In Chains and Tool, but Tommy makes it clear that it is something NEW and risky. For the production of Tommy's vocals, the band were lucky enough to count with Disturbed's frontman David Draiman who coached Tommy throughout the entire process. Additionally, Tommy is an alumni from vocal coach Melissa Cross (considered the best in the business).

Tommy and Draiman have been friends for a while, but it was during the 2011 Music As A Weapon Tour that Draiman took Tommy under his wing. Tommy ended up being part of the Music As A Weapon Tour after being personally invited by In This Moment. This is how Tommy ended up joining In This Moment for a duet with the beautiful Maria Brink on the song "The Promise". This very successful tour also featured Disturbed, Korn and Sevendust!

VEXT's debut LP is currently being mixed by Chris Clancy (formerly from Mutiny Within) at Colin Richardson's studio in the UK and songs should start surfacing online around March. Follow Tommy Vext on Twitter to be the first to hear his NEW musical creation: @TVEXT

All this and more on this EXCLUSIVE Horns Up Rocks interview!

Video credit: Steve Lars from Creative Ventures International & Steve Lars on Facebook

Related links:
Tommy Vext on Twitter

DREAM THEATER's John Petrucci Featured On Guitar Player Magazine - Video Interview Available!

Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci is featured on the cover of the February 2012 issue of Guitar Player magazine. The lengthy feature includes an extended interview with Petrucci about technique, the band's NEW album 'A Dramatic Turn of Events', production, and much more. It's also accompanied by a transcription of a section of the song "Outcry," from the NEW album, and a sidebar in which Petrucci answers questions posed by students from the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. But how did Petrucci achieve musical heaven?

Petrucci was born in Long Island, New York, on July 12, 1967, and picked up the guitar at the young age of 8 simply because he wanted to go to bed later. Apparently, his older sister was allowed to go to bed later since she was practicing the piano. This backfired on Petrucci, who ended up quitting playing guitar when his parents didn't allow him to stay up late to practice the guitar. Petrucci picked up the guitar again at the age of 12 when his childhood friend and future Dream Theater keyboardist Kevin Moore invited him to join his cover band.

Once Petrucci founded Dream Theater in 1985, the band quickly became the Kings of Progressive Metal and many blame Petrucci's skills-set for this. His guitar and songwriting skills are to be reckoned with, and lets not forget that he has also produced every single Dream Theater album.

The rest is history!

From Ashes Rise Enter Studio To Record NEW 7" For Southern Lord Records!

This weekend, Portland, Oregon-based crust Punk icons From Ashes Rise entered the studio to lay down two vicious NEW anthems for Southern Lord Recordings. The crushing recording session marks the first time the band recorded in nine years!

Recorded at Audible Alchemy, engineered by Bryan Sours and Steve Lobdell, and mixed at Audiosiege by Sours and the band's own Brad Boatright, the two tracks -- "Rejoice The End" and "Rage of Sanity" -- are being finalized for a rabid NEW 7" set to be let off the chain via Southern Lord in April or May. A final release date, cover art and more will be be locked down in the coming weeks.

From Ashes Rise formed in Nashville, Tennessee during the mid 1990s' American crust Punk surge, their infectious downtuned moroseness catching on worldwide almost immediately. Having relocated to Portland, Oregon, the band have unleashed three LPs, a plethora of split releases, EPs and more to date, all amidst waves of heavy underground touring. Last May the band dominated the indoor stage at the annual Maryland Deathfest gathering in Baltimore, and then in November took part the Portland show of Southern Lord's massive The Power Of The Riff West Coast takeover.

From Ashes Rise remain one of the most brutally-charged and hauntingly melodic forerunners of the scene.

Related links:
From Ashes Rise on MySpace
From Ashes Rise on Facebook
From Ashes Rise on Audio Siege
Southern Lord Records
Southern Lord Records on Twitter
Southern Lord Records on Facebook

CANNIBAL CORPSE Confirmed As Headliner For the 2012 Summer Slaughter Tour!

The Kings of Death Metal, CANNIBAL CORPSE, will brutalize North America this Summer with a headlining spot on the upcoming Summer Slaughter Tour 2012!

While the festival's full schedule and routing are still to be announced, the band is honored to be confirmed for the main slot of the illustrious trek. Stated bassist Alex Webster: "We are very proud to be a part of this year's Summer Slaughter, the biggest and best extreme Metal festival tour in North America. All fans of the heaviest forms of Metal will find something for them on the bill. It's going to be brutal... see you in the pit!"

CANNIBAL CORPSE will unearth their twelfth slab of audio devastation to North American fans on March 13, 2012 via Metal Blade Records. Listed among Decibel Magazine’s "Top 25 Most Anticipated Extreme Records Of 2012," the aptly titled 'Torture' was again produced by Hate Eternal’s Erik Rutan at his own Mana Recording Studio in St. Petersburg, Florida as well as Sonic Ranch in Tornillo, Texas, and features the cover art by longtime CANNIBAL CORPSE artist, Vincent Locke.

Listen to the pulverizing "Demented Aggression,” the first single to be released from 'Torture', and check out preorder packages for the album at the link below.

The tour dates and venues for this years Summer Slaughter Tour will be announced soon, so stay tuned!

Cannibal Corpse "Demented Aggression" by Metal Blade Records

'Torture' Track Listing:

01. Demented Aggression
02. Sarcophagic Frenzy
03. Scourge of Iron
04. Encased in Concrete
05. As Deep As the Knife Will Go
06. Intestinal Crank
07. Followed Home Then Killed
08. The Strangulation Chair
09. Caged…Contorted
10. Crucifier Avenged
11. Rabid
12. Torn Through

'Torture' will be released in North America on March 13, 2012.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

KREATOR Announce NEW Album Title, Release Date & Exclusive 7“ Single!

German Thrash Metallers KREATOR, are proud to announce the album title of our upcoming release, which is coming this June!

The album is currently being produced at the famous Fascination Street Studio with renowned producer Jens Bogren (OPETH, KATATONIA, SOILWORK, DEVIN TOWNSEND, AMON AMARTH) in Örebro, Sweden.

Entitled 'Phantom Antichrist', this album marks the bands debut for Nuclear Blast and is set to be released June 1, 2012 (Europe), June 5, 2012 (North America)

Furthermore, KREATOR will also release an exclusive 7“ single of the titlesong on April 20, 2012. The collector's item will be available in coloured red vinyl (limited to 250 pieces) as well as in clear vinyl (limited to 250 pieces, exclusively available at the Nuclear Blast Mailorder – www.nuclearblast.de/shop).

KREATOR will exclusively perform a NEW song during their shows at this years METALFEST open air events!

Compilation Of The New England Metal & Hardcore Festival Available NOW + Win A Trip To This Year's Fest!

It's that time of year again when the Metal community starts to gear up for the annual New England Metal & Hardcore Festival, taking place April 20th - 22nd in Worcester, MA. This year FYE & 'Stache Media have teamed up with MassConcerts to create the 2012 New England Metal & Hardcore FestivalCD sampler, featuring some of the bands playing this year's festival + more!

There is a contest running where one winner and a guest will receive a three-day pass to the festival, roundtrip airfare, and hotel accommodations. For details and official contest rules visit www.metalandhardcorefestival.com/Contest

The New England Metal & Hardcore Festival CD sampler is available at your local participating f.y.e. store (while supplies last). Get the sampler for FREE when you purchase a $9.99 CD in stores from the featured bands below.

New England Metal & Hardcore Festival 2012 Sampler Tracklisting:

1. The Black Dahlia Murder - "Moonlight Equilibrium" (featured on Ritual)
2. Skeletonwitch - "Reduced To The Failure Of Prayer" (featured on Forever Abomination)
3. For Today - "Devastator" (featured on Breaker)
4. Vanna - "Black Bones" (featured on And They Came Baring Bones)
5. Fit For An Autopsy - "The Juggernaut" (featured on The Process of Human Extermination)
6. Chelsea Grin - "The Foolish One" (featured on My Damnation)
7. Within The Ruins - "Versus" (featured on Invade)
8. Attila - "Payback" (featured on Outlawed)
9. Counterparts - "Jumping Ship" (featured on The Current Will Carry Us)
10. Gideon - "Virtue" (featured on Costs)
11. Christian Mistress - "Haunted Hunted" (featured on Possession)
12. Dr. Acula - "Party 2.0" (featured on Slander)
13. Wretched - "My Carrion" (featured on Beyond The Gate)
14. Emmure - "Solar Flare Homicide" (featured on Speaker Of the Dead)
15. Carnifex - "Until I Feel Nothing" (featured on Until I Feel Nothing)
16. Close Your Eyes - "Valleys" (featured on Empty Hands and Heavy Hearts)

* Bonus track included from Break Thru Artist: Imagine the Escape - "Reclamation" (featured on What Once Existed EP)

The following artists will perform at the 2012 edition of the "New England Metal and Hardcore Festival":

- Friday, April 20:

THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER
THE ACACIA STRAIN
OCEANO
ALL SHALL PERISH
NILE
SKELETONWITCH
LIONHEART
FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE
FIRST BLOOD
MOLOTOV SOLUTION
THE CONTORTIONIST
REIGN SUPREME
CONDUCTING FROM THE GRAVE
FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY
INCENDIARY
PALEHORSE
HOUR OF PENANCE
LEGION
RELENTLESS

- Saturday, April 21

[Headliner to be announced January 2, 2012]
OVERKILL
IWRESTLEDABEARONCE
PROTEST THE HERO
PERIPHERY
BANE
SHIPWRECK
CRUEL HAND
ABORTED
BLACKGUARD
THE MONGOLOIDS
BELGARDOR
SYSTEM DIVIDE
NAYSAYER
THE GREENERY
DIAMOND PLATE
ROTTING OUT
EXPIRE
ELITIST
TRUMPET THE HARLOT
MANNERS
MALEFICE

- Sunday, April 22

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE
EVERY TIME I DIE
VANNA
FOR TODAY
CHELSEA GRIN
SLEEPING GIANT
STICK TO YOUR GUNS
ATTILA
ON BROKEN WINGS
MYCHILDREN MYBRIDE
FOR THE FALLEN DREAMS
TEXAS IN JULY
UPON A BURNING BODY
VOLUMES
LIKE MOTHS TO FLAMES
HUNDREDTH
NO BRAGGING RIGHTS
COUNTERPARTS
GIDEON

Tickets for the festival will go on sale this Friday (December 16) at 10 a.m. Ticket prices are: $40 (Friday), $45 (Saturday), and $40 (Sunday) or $115 (three-day pass).

Related links:
New England Metal & Hardcore Festival

BLACK SABBATH To Record & Tour Without Bill Ward?!

It seems like the drama behind the BLACK SABBATH camp never stops. In an unprecedented move, legendary drummer Bill Ward has made it very clear that he will not be able to partake in the recording session for the NEW SABBATH album and any any subsequent touring, unless he is given a "fair agreement". Here is his official statement regarding this matter:

"Dear SABBATH fans, fellow musicians and interested parties,

"At this time, I would love nothing more than to be able to proceed with the BLACK SABBATH album and tour. However, I am unable to continue unless a 'signable' contract is drawn up; a contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward me as an original member of the band.

"Last year, I worked diligently in good faith with [fellow original SABBATH members] Tony [Iommi, guitar], Ozzy [Osbourne, vocals] and Geezer [Butler, bass]. And on [November 11, 2011], again in good faith, I participated in the L.A. press conference.

"Several days ago, after nearly a year of trying to negotiate, another 'unsignable' contract was handed to me.

"Let me say that although this has put me in some kind of holding pattern, I am packed and ready to leave the U.S. for England. More importantly, I definitely want to play on the album, and I definitely want to tour with BLACK SABBATH.

"Since the news of Tony's illness, and the understanding that the band would move production to the U.K., I've spent every day getting to or living in a place of readiness to leave. That involves something of a task, and as I've tried to find out what's going on with the U.K. sessions, I've realized that I've been getting 'the cold shoulder' (and, I might add, not for the first time). Feeling somewhat ostracized, my guess is as of today, I will know nothing of what's happening unless I sign 'the unsignable contract.'

"The place I'm in feels lousy and lonely because as much as I want to play and participate, I also have to stand for something and not sign on. If I sign 'as is,' I stand to lose my rights, dignity and respectability as a Rock musician.

"I believe in freedom and freedom of speech.

"I grew up in a hard Rock/Metal band. We stood for something then, and we played from the heart with honesty and sincerity. I am in the spirit of integrity, far from the corporate malady, I am real and honest, fair and compassionate.

"If I'm replaced, I have to face you, the beloved SABBATH fans. I hope you will not hold me responsible for the failure of an original BLACK SABBATH lineup as promoted. Without fault finding, I want to assure everyone that my loyalty to SABBATH is intact.

"So here I am. I lay my truth down before you. I'm good to go IF I get a 'signable' contract.

"I don't want to let anyone down, especially BLACK SABBATH and all the SABBATH fans. You know I love you. It would be a sad day in rock if this current situation fell to the desires of a few.

"My position is not greed-driven. I'm not holding out for a 'big piece' of the action (money) like some kind of blackmail deal. I’d like something that recognizes and is reflective of my contributions to the band, including the reunions that started fourteen years ago.

"After the last tour, I vowed to never again sign on to an unreasonable contract. I want a contract that shows some respect to me and my family, a contract that will honor all that I've brought to BLACK SABBATH since its beginning.

"That's the story so far.

"Stay safe and stay strong.

"I love every single one of you."

- Bill Ward

Black Sabbath European tour-dates:

- May 18: Moscow, Russia - Olimpiski
- May 20: St. Petersburg, Russia - New Arena
- May 23: Helsinki, Finland - Hartwall Arena
- May 25: Stockholm, Sweden - Stadium
- May 29: Bergen, Norway - Bergen Calling Festival
- May 31: Oslo, Norway - Spektrum
- Jun. 02: Malmö, Sweden - Malmö Stadium
- Jun. 04: Dortmund, Germany - Westfalenhalle
- Jun. 10: Donnington, UK - Download Festival
- Jun. 12: Rotterdam, Holland - Ahoy
- Jun. 15: Bilbao, Spain - Azkena Rock Festival
- Jun. 17: Nantes, France - Hellfest
- Jun. 19: Paris, France - Bercy
- Jun. 22: Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting
- Jun. 24: Milan, Italy - Gods of Metal

Related links:
Black Sabbath

KORN To Appear On "Jimmy Kimmel Live" TONIGHT!

Fresh off the hugely successful first leg of dates in support of their recently released album 'The Path of Totality', Berkley California's KORN will be taking over ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" tonight (February 2)!

Korn are set to return to the road for the second leg of "the Path of Totality Tour". The NEW batch of dates kick off on February 23 in Detroit, running through the Midwest before heading back West and wrapping up on March 4 in San Francisco. Kill the Noise will provide support on certain dates, while Korn's own Jonathan Davis will also debut his brand new DJ set as his J Devil alter ego.

Special pre-sale tickets and VIP packages will be available starting Wednesday, January 18 at 3 PM local time at the link below. Tickets for most shows go on sale to the general public this weekend.

'The Path of Totality' is another experimental chapter in Korn's rich canon and history. The album found the band shifting gears, taking a bit of a creative left turn (something they've been known to do throughout the course of their two decade career) and exploring thrilling new territory with some of the hottest emerging producers and talent in the burgeoning electronic scene. The album debuted Top 10 on the Billboard charts and was met with universal critical applause, thanks to the band' s ability to remain fresh and relevant while collaborating with electronic producers Skrillex, 12th Planet, Kill the Noise, Excision, Flinch, Noisia, Datsik, Downlink, Feed Me and more.

Korn were recently profiled in the New York Times' Sunday section, celebrated for their ability to embrace dubstep, which some have deemed "the new punk." 'The Path of Totality' has garnered incredible praise and buzz, while being featured in NME, SPIN, Electronic Musician, Rollingstone.com, Hype Machine, and even being named “Album of the Year” by Revolver Magazine. LA Weekly raved about Korn’s recent record release show, while calling it as “unique a show as I’ve ever seen.”

The dates for the second leg of "the Path of Totality tour" are as follows:

- Feb. 23: Detroit, MI at Fillmore*
- Feb. 24: Chicago, IL at Congress Theater
- Feb. 25: Milwaukee, WI at Eagles Ballroom
- Feb. 27: Denver, CO at First Bank Center*
- Feb. 28: Salt Lake City, UT at The Complex *
- March 1: Phoenix, AZ at Comerica Theatre
- March 2: Las Vegas, NV at Pearl Concert Theatre @ Palms Casino
- March 4: San Francisco, CA at Warfield Theater

*Kill The Noise Supports

Related links:
Click here to purchase tickets for Korn's "The Path Of Totality Tour"
Jimmy Kimmel Live

PUSCIFER Premieres Video For "Telling Ghosts" & Announce 2012 Tour Dates!

Maynard James Keenan's Puscifer released their sophomore album, 'Conditions of My Parole', this past October and quickly followed with a North American tour that The Boston Globe referred to as "musical theater" and the Philadelphia Weekly described as an "engaging performance with hilarious pre-recorded between-song skits featuring MJK alter-egos Major Douche and white-trash hero Billy D."

The second leg of the band's North American tour kicks off on February 23rd at The Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, Texas. Tickets for all shows are on-sale now at venue box offices and via Ticketmaster and Live Nation's websites. The March 17th Riverside, California performance at Fox Performing Arts Center is on-sale this Friday, January 27th. A limited number of VIP packages, featuring wine tastings and VIP experiences are available at the link below.

Recently, Puscifer premiered their music video for "Telling Ghosts" and if you haven't seen it, you can do so right now!

Puscifer's touring band members are Maynard James Keenan, Mat Mitchell, Josh Eustis, Carina Round, Matt McJunkins and Jeff Friedl.

- February

23: Austin, TX at Long Center for the Performing Arts
25: Baton Rouge, LA at River Center Theatre
26: Memphis, TN at Orpheum Theatre
28: Nashville, TN at Andrew Jackson Hall
29: Louisville, KY at Brown Theatre

Mar. 16 at The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco and Mar. 17 at Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside, Calif.

- March

1: Pittsburgh, PA at Byham Theatre
3: Cincinnati, OH at Taft Theatre
4: Indianapolis, IN at Murat Theatre
6: Kansas City, KS at Kansas City Music Hall
7: Omaha, NE at Omaha Civic Auditorium
10: Edmonton, AB at North Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
11: Calgary, AB at Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
13: Vancouver, BC at The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts
14: Portland, OR at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
16: San Francisco, CA at The Palace of Fine Arts
17: Riverside, CA at Fox Performing Arts Center
18: Escondido, CA at California Center for the Arts

ABORTED Launches FREE iPhone App, Get It Now!

Goremasters ABORTED have now released the band's first iPhone app! Download it now and always be up-to-date with the latest news and tour dates, plus listen to ABORTED songs and watch their videos. You can also check out band merch or customize your iPhone with some really creepy wallpaper, based on the awesome album artwork by Slasher Design. You can even play the "Whack-A-Zombie" mini-game and use your high score to win some ABORTED goodies! The app was designed by Sven De Caluwe (vocals ABORTED) and developed by Shai Mishali for Avernus Studio.

To download this free app, head over to the Apple AppStore by clicking here!

ABORTED released their latest onslaught of Death Metal, 'Global Flatline', on January 23rd in Europe and January 24th in North America. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by the renowned Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT, PESTILENCE, HATESPHERE) at Hansen Studios in Ribe, Denmark, Global Flatline features several guest vocalists, including Trevor Strnad (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER), Julien Truchan (BENIGHTED), Jason Netherton (MISERY INDEX), and Keiijo Niinima (ROTTEN SOUND).

The band also recently released a music video for "The Origin Of Disease", which can be viewed below. Directed and produced by Phil Berridge (Creative Junky), this piece of audiovisual carnage is not for the faint of heart! If explicit gore is what you need... You will be begging for seconds!

Track listing for 'Global Flatline':

01. Omega Mortis
02. Global Flatline
03. Источник Болезни (The Origin Of Disease)
04. Coronary Reconstruction
05. Fecal Forgery
06. Of Scabs And Boils
07. Vermicular, Obscene, Obese
08. Expurgation Euphoria
09. From A Tepid Whiff
10. The Kallinger Theory
11. Our Father, Who Art Of Feces
12. Grime
13. Endstille

Horns Up Rocks - Interview with Sven De Caluwe from Aborted by Horns Up Rocks

Related links:
Official Site of Aborted
Aborted on Facebook
Aborted on Twitter
Aborted on MySpace
Aborted on YouTube

LA Based Hardcore Legends STRIFE Recruit Iggor Cavalera To Play Drums On NEW Album!

Los Angeles based Hardcore band, Strife, will be heading down to Brazil next week to start recording their brand NEW, yet to be titled full-length record. The band has enlisted long time friend, Iggor Cavalera (Sepultura / Cavalera Conspiracy) to play drums on the forthcoming album. The album is being produced by Terror drummer Nick Jett (Take Offense, Lionheart), and will be recorded at Mix Nova Studios in Brazil, and finished at Blood Tracks Studio and Sunset Lodge in Los Angeles. Producer Matt Hyde (Hatebreed, Slayer) will be handling the mastering of the release.

Guitarist Andrew Kline said, “This album is going to be our best release yet… we have been working on pre-production tracks for the last few months, and the songs are amazing. This record is more along the lines of 'In This Defiance', but with a harder and a little more modern edge. Plus Iggor’s drumming is really going to take everything to the next level.”

A final release date, label, cover art and additional information will be revealed in the near future.

Related links:
Strife on MySpace

NAPALM DEATH Premieres First Video Of Mark "Barney" Greenway Describing 'Utilitarian'!

Mark "Barney" Greenway, the frontman of the legendary Grindcore band Napalm Death, is now giving fans the first preview of his bands upcoming NEW album entitled 'Utilitarian'. Below you can watch the premiere of the first of four video clips. The six-minute video covers the instrumental opening track "Circumspect", as well as "Errors In The Signal", "Everyday Pox" and "Protection Racket".

Set to be released on February 27th in Europe and February 28th in North America, 'Utilitarian' is the four-piece's 14th studio album, and it promises to live up to the bands everlasting legacy as leaders of extreme music-- so prepare yourself for a NEW grind classic!

Upon the release of 'Utilitarian', Napalm Death's limited-edition 'Analysis Paralysis 7" EP' will also be available for purchase at CM Distro in black and clear vinyl. Its B-Side includes the exclusive track "Youth Offender", making this 7" a very collectible piece for any diehard Napalm Death fan! Stay tuned for more information about this special release coming soon.

The band is already confirmed to play the 2012 editions of Wacken Open Air (Germany), Hellfest (France), Maryland Deathfest (USA), and several shows from late January onwards, including a special record release show in Birmingham on February 25th. Check the dates below to see when Napalm Death will be coming to a city near you!

Napalm Death live 2012:

- 2/25: Birmingham - Record Release Show @ HMV Institute (Great Britain)
- 3/2: Tilburg - Neurotic Deathfest (Netherlands)
- 3/4: Paris - Maroquinerie (France)
- 3/31: Enschede - Atak (Netherlands)
- 4/4: Blios - Chatodo (France)
- 4/5: Castres - Bolegason (France)
- 4/6: Rambouillet - Usine a Chapeaux (France)
- 4/7: St Brieuc - Citrouille (France)
- 4/27: Lausanne - Les Docks (Switzerland)
- 4/28: Bari - Demode' Club (Italy)
- 4/29: Livorno - The Cage Teather (Italy)
- 5/11: Magdeburg - Factory (Germany)
- 5/12: Essen - Zeche Carl (Germany)
- 5/24-27: Sonar-Baltimore - Maryland Deathfest (USA)
- 6/1: Barcelona - Primavera Sound (Spain)
- 6/15: Clisson - Hellfest (France)
- 7/27: Bertingen - Rock unter den Eichen Open Air (Germany)
- 7/28: Essen - Nord Open Air Festival (Germany)
- 8/2-4: Wacken - Wacken Open Air (Germany)

Related links:
Click here to listen to Napalm Death's NEW song "Leper Colony" (courtesy of Brooklyn Vegan)
Napalm Death
Century Media

The Cult's "Sanctuary" To Be Featured On Budweiser Super Bowl Commercial!

"She Sells Sanctuary," the international hit from British Rock band The Cult, and Sunshine State rapper Flo Rida's Top 10 smash "Good Feelin," will be featured this Sunday as a mashup in one of Budweiser's Super Bowl commercials.

The one-minute spot is a celebratory romp through several decades of great times in America that begins with the end of Prohibition in 1933.

Written by The Cult's vocalist Ian Astbury and guitarist Billy Duffy, "She Sells Sanctuary" reached #15 on the UK charts and was a Top 40 dance hit in the U.S. In a review, one journalist wrote, "Duffy's liquid, quasi-psychedelic guitar intro over a buzz of flanged feedback suddenly rips into a triumphant, driving lead melody that's jaw dropping."

'Choice of Weapon', The Cult's first NEW studio album in five years, will be released on May 22 (Cooking Vinyl), and the band - Asbury, Duffy, drummer John Tempesta, and bassist Chris Wyse - will tour extensively in support of it.

'Choice of Weapon' is aimed at the heart of The Cult's loyal following. It reflects the current discontent and destruction of our eco systems, the search for individual meaning against a tide of rampant materialism, narcissism and disconnected lives. "We went deeper... we worked a bit harder on this record. We have great fans and they deserve our best," added Duffy, "and I feel this is as strong as any album we have ever released.

The Cult 'Choice of Weapon' Track Listing:

1) Honey From a Knife
2) Elemental Light
3) For The Animals
4) Life>Death
5) The Wolf
6) Amnesia
7) Lucifer
8) Wilderness Now
9) A Pale Horse
10) This Night in the City Forever

The Cult is working on film and graphic elements to accompany the album's release, and plans are being confirmed for the band's 2012 World Tour.

Related links:
Official Site of The Cult
The Cult on Facebook

DRAGONFORCE Reveal NEW Album Details!

London-based Metal superstars DragonForce have revealed details of their forthcoming NEW album. Entitled 'The Power Within', this 10-track monster marks the band's fifth studio album and its first with NEW singer Marc Hudson behind the microphone. It will be released April 17 via Roadrunner Records in the U.S.

DragonForce guitarist Herman Li said, "The last two years have been the most fun we ever had making an album. Through writing, jamming and touring together, we have built this incredible energy and it has been fully captured on the new album."

Li also claims the album boasts the fastest song the band has ever recorded. He continued, "This time around we’ve really brought our Metal side to the surface and made some of the best music of our career. From the fastest song we’ve ever recorded to the slower songs, and some things you would never expect from us, this is by far the most diverse DragonForce album yet."

The full track listing for 'The Power Within' is as follows:

1. Holding On
2. Fallen World
3. Cry Thunder
4. Give Me the Night
5. Wings of Liberty
6. Seasons
7. Heart of the Storm
8. Die By the Sword
9. Last Man Stands
10. Seasons (Acoustic Version)

There will also be a digital special edition featuring the bonus tracks "Cry Thunder (Live Rehearsal)", "Heart of the Storm (Alternative Chorus Version)" and "Avant La Tempête (Instrumental)".

Look for exciting US tour announcements coming soon.

Related links:
Official Site of Dragonforce

A Great Soul Was Extinguished From The New York City Heavy Music Scene: Rock In Peace Not-So-Evil Steve Ventura!

Yesterday, the New York City Heavy Music scene lost a man that literally bled for the underground music scene! Steve Ventura (A.K.A. Evil Steve), was not only a devoted fan and supporter of all things related to the local music scene (he introduced us to a handful of bands), but he thankfully also captured the essence of this ever-growing scene through the lens of his camera!

One thing that is very inspiring about Steve is how after working all types of jobs for so many years so he could help raise his children, he decided to go back to school and follow his passion of becoming a professional photographer. Unfortunately but rightfully, his plans changed after his father passed away and he took it upon himself to take care of his elderly mother who became very fragile after the death of Mr. Ventura.

We will never forget how Steve jumped on board the Horns Up Rocks crazy train without expecting anything in return! He did it because he believed in us and we believed in his immense talent. We had many conversations with Steve and reassured him that we'd wait for him to be ready to jump back on board, because we respected his priorities as the wonderful son he was.

While Steve might have made some mistakes in his past, just like most of us have. He won't be remembered because of the errors he committed... he will always be remembered for his huge heart and perseverance. If there is one thing that everyone can learn from him, is that life is too short to waste it away! Follow your passion and don't let anyone slow you down. And if they do, just give them the middle finger!

Steve: we love you and thank you for everything you did for us and the entire Heavy Music scene! Rock in PEACE, and rest assured that we will not let your flame be extinguished! \m/

More information about his funeral arrangements to follow!

Services for "Evil" Steve Ventura will be held tomorrow 2/3/12 at:

English Brothers Funeral Home
2203 Avenue Z
(718)743-8459
Viewing Hours:
2-5pm
7-9pm

Go to the comments section and let us know what Steve Ventura meant to you!

‎"A great photograph is a full expression of what one feels about what is being photographed in the deepest sense, and is, thereby, a true expression of what one feels about life in its entirety. You will always be a rock star photographer Steve... no matter what!" - Porphyra Philia

Steve filmed this Horns Up Rocks interview at one of the first national concerts ever covered by us:

"I remember talking to Steve when he first started his photography degree. Watching his photography evolve made me so proud to see. He achieved success and his photos will make him live on forever. I am so sad to read that we lost him." - Stephanie Volpe

"VERY sad news! Steve Ventura (AKA EvilSteveBklynNY): one of the members of the NYC Metal familia has passed away! Throughout the last year he was "missing in action" since he was taking care of his mother after his father passed away. Last time I saw him he offered me some chips out of a semi empty bag even though he was hungry... Steve would literally give you his shirt if you were cold, his drink if you were thirsty & helped me so much when I started Horns Up Rocks! YOU WILL BE SORELY MISSED by the entire NYC Metal familia! I LOVE YOU brother & ROCK IN PEACE my friend, you deserve it!" - Jo Schüftan

Click to see more pictures taken by Steve Ventura

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

The Organizers Of The 2012 Summer Slaughter Tour Announce Headlining & Special Guest Bands!

Photo credit: The Pixel Eye

The 2012 Summer Slaughter Tour will once again offer the U.S. Metalheads one of the most extreme tours in the United States! It was announced today that these years Summer Slaughter Tour will be headlined by Cannibal Corpse, with direct support coming from Between The Buried And Me. Starting this Sunday a new band will be announced on the Official Summer Slaughter Tour Facebook page (link below).

The tour dates and venues for this years Summer Slaughter Tour will be announced soon, so stay tuned!

Dave Grohl To Join Forces With Corey Taylor In Honor Of Sound City Studios - Video Available!

In May of 2011, Sound City Studios (located in Van Nuys, California) was shut down as a commercial studio. Sound City Studios has quiet a history, having had many legends of music record classic records inside the studios on Cabrito Road off the 405 freeway. Some artist that recorded at Sound City Studios are:

- Fletwood Mac
- Neil Young
- Tom Petty
- Eric Clapton
- Nine Inch Nails
- Slipknot
- Nirvana

So what is the connection between Sound City Studios and Dave Grohl? Well, not only did Nirvana record their groundbreaking album 'Nevermind' there, but Grohl is now the proud owner of the 1970s Neve Console that captured plenty of magic! Here is a message that Grohl had for the Skeeter family, who owned Sound City Studios for many years:

"Thank you so much for the opportunity to own the board. I wouldn’t even have the computer I’m sending you this e-mail on if it wasn’t for this board."

In order to pay tribute to Sound City Studios and all the artists that recorded there, Grohl has announced that he will be producing a documentary about the magic behind the studio. "When Sound City closed last year, it was a very sad day. That place was like a church. The list of people that recorded there reads like a virtual Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame... We recorded 'Nevermind' there back in 1991."

He continued, "That funky old place had the best drum room in world. The drum sound at the beginning of 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' — that's Sound City.

"I decided to make a film about that feeling you get when you put five guys in a room, hit 'record' and the hair on the back of your neck stands up. Expect some epic jam sessions."

One of the artists that will be joining Grohl on this awesome project is Corey Slipknot from Slipknot and Stone Sour. Here is what Taylor had to say about being part of this awesome project:

"[Dave is] doing a documentary about the legendary board from Sound City that everybody and their mom recorded on — everybody from 'Nevermind' to, actually, [SLIPKNOT's] 'Iowa'... And he's slowly but surely gotten all these people together to make music on that board again. And he called me. He was like, 'Would you like to do a tune?' I was like, 'Are you serious? I'm on a plane right now.' And it's really cool, because it's me, Dave and Rick Nielsen [CHEAP TRICK] on one tune. And I'm like, 'Ahh…. Excuse me?!' It's just a huge check mark on my bucket list, let's put it that way. And I'm really ecstatic. It's a really good tune."

Other musicians that will be part of the documentary include RATT's Stephen Pearcy and Warren DeMartini, as well as REO SPEEDWAGON frontman Kevin Cronin.

Related links:
Foo Fighters
Slipknot
Stone Sour

Randy Blythe From LAMB OF GOD Comments About 'Resolution' Hitting The #3 Chart Spot!

“Thanks to all the people congratulating us for #3 chart spot in the US for Resolution. It’s pretty cool – we are proud of the record! This confirms something that @MarkDuaneMorton & I have been saying for a couple of years in the press, trying to explain to people about the difference of Metal/Hardcore fans – that the music is much more of a LIFESTYLE thing than regular pop ‘music.’ Being involved in this scene runs deeper than just tunes – it provides a social group, I believe composed of primarily folks who think DIFFERENTLY than the status quo.

“To me, coming up in the Hardcore/Punk scene was so much more than just records- it was friends where I had none before, an escape from the bullshit of normal life that I was totally fed up with. I believe that the Metal scene is approaching that paradigm today- its smart, starting to become politically & socially aware. The Metal fans also flat out SUPPORT their scene more as well, by going to shows even in tough economic times, and buying records to try and support the artists who make our music.

“The record industry is BROKEN, and a new model HAS to occur-there is no denying that. But I feel that the Metal/Hardcore/Punk fans will embrace that new model & support the artists in a way that pop fans will not, or perhaps will do so only grudgingly. Here are some figures for y’all that illustrate what I’m talking about, that shows that Metal fans still support the artists. Our record 'Wrath' debuted at #2. 'Resolution' debuted at #3. 'Wrath' soundscanned 68,000 copies during release week. 'Resolution' scanned over 52,000 copies first week. Now, you may look at these #’s and say ‘Wow, their chart position & sales have declined. Their fan base must be getting smaller.’  

“NOT AT ALL. Consider this- album to album sales ACROSS the board are down approximately 40%. This is due to a bad economy and (ahem) downloading. Lamb of god’s album sales are down only about 20%. Take the guy with the #2 slot, Tim McGraw. His last record came in at 139,000 copies. His record that debuted last week came in at 69,000. That is about a FIFTY PERCENT DROP. So while he sold more records than us, his drop in sale was FAR LARGER than ours. It’s the norm EVERYONE on the charts.

“Everyone except……..yup, you guessed it, some of the more underground types of bands. During our second week, we can expect to see an 80% drop in sales. This is because we have a hardcore fan base who actually went out & got the record, most probably did ON THE DAY OF RELEASE. We aren’t a big radio band. We don’t have ‘hits’ or AirPlay to drive us along the charts. But we have a fan base that will exist long after machine has EATEN the latest pop sensation and spit them out. How many pop singers have 17 year careers that keep growing? Not many.

“Flash in the pan bullshit. So we thank you for your support. We thank you for supporting our music. When I say ‘our’ music, I mean OUR music- it’s YOUR music as well as Lamb Of God’s. Otherwise we wouldn’t be where we are. Thanks again, and I’ll see ya in the pit.”

Photo credit: Steve Lars from Creative Ventures International & Steve Lars on Facebook

Related links:
Randy Blythe's Blog
Lamb Of God
Lamb Of God of Facebook

MASTODON Unleash Tour Video For Their Upcoming North American Trek With Opeth & Ghost!

This is one tour that Rock fans will be talking about for years to come and if you miss it, you'll be terribly sorry. Mastodon and Opeth will be embarking on a co-headline tour this spring, which kicks off April 4 in Portland, Maine and runs through May 12 in Atlanta, Georgia. It's the first time these two titans of progressive and forward-thinking hard Rock have hit the road together and it's going to be one for the ages. Ghost will serve as the opener of the tour, which has been christened the "Heritage Hunter." Here is the official tour video from Mastodon!

Dates for this momentous trek are as follows. Pre-sale ticketing begins on February 1, with public on sales to follow on February 3.

April 4 – State Theater – Portland, ME
April 5 – Orpheum Theater – Boston, MA *
April 6 – Metropolis – Montreal, QC *
April 7 – Sony Centre – Toronto, ON *
April 9 – Electric Factory - Philadelphia, PA
April 10 – The Dome – Wallingford, CT
April 11 – Roseland – New York, NY
April 13 – Riviera Theater – Chicago
April 14 – Intersection – Grand Rapids, MI
April 15 – Stage AE – Pittsburgh, PA
April 16 – TN Theater – Knoxville, TN *
April 18 – Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK
April 19 –Palladium – Dallas, TX *
April 20 – Backstage Live – San Antonio, TX *
April 21 – Concrete Street – Corpus Christi, TX *
April 23 – Fillmore – Denver, CO *
April 25 – House of Blues – Las Vegas, NV
April 26 – Gibson – Hollywood, CA *
April 27 – Fox Theatre – Oakland, CA *
April 28 – Grand Sierra Resort – Reno, NV
April 30 – Paramount Theater – Seattle, WA *
May 1 – Orpheum – Vancouver, BC *
May 3 – Edmonton Events Centre – Edmonton,AB *
May 4 – MacEwan Hall – Calgary, AB
May 5 – The Odeon – Saskatoon, SK
May 6 – Burton Cummings – Winnipeg, MB *
May 9 – The Fillmore – Washington, DC *
May 10 – The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC
May 11 – House of Blues – Myrtle Beach, SC *
May 12 – Masquerade Music Park – Atlanta, GA

*Denotes Opeth close the show

Stay tuned for more information!

Related links:
Go here to purchase tickets!
Official site of Mastodon
Official site of Opeth
Official site of Ghost

Video Update From MEGADETH's Dave Ellefson LIVE From Gigantour!

The 2012 version of Gigantour is currently crossing through North America in full throttle! Tonight, the Heavy Music fanatics of Glens Falls, New York, will welcome Megadeth, Motörhead, Volbeat and Lacuna Coil to the Glens Falls Civic Center. In anticipation of tonight's show, Dave Ellefson from Megadeth just posted the following video update:

"Gigantour" 2012, featuring Megadeth, Motörhead, Volbeat, and Lacuna Coil! Remaining tour dates!

February:

1 – Glens Falls Civic Center – Glens Falls, NY
2 – Colisee Pepsi – Quebec City, QC
3 – Bell Centre – Montreal, QC
5 – K-Rock Centre – Kingston, ON
7 – General Motors Centre – Oshawa, ON
8 – Copps Coliseum – Hamilton, ON
9 – Palace of Auburn Hills – Auburn Hills, MI
10 – Aragon Ballroom – Chicago, IL
12 – Eagles Ballroom – Milwaukee, WI
14 – Myth – St. Paul, MN
16 – Prairieland – Saskatoon, SK
17 – Shaw Conference Centre – Edmonton, AB
18 – Big 4 Building – Calgary, AB
20 – Abbotsford Ent & Sports Centre – Abbotsford, BC
21 – Showare Center – Kent, WA
23 – Event Center at San Jose State University – San Jose, CA
24 – Gibson Amphitheatre – Universal City, CA
25 – Comerica Theatre – Phoenix, AZ
26 – Tingley Coliseum – Albuquerque, NM
28 – The Fillmore Auditorium – Denver, CO

Photo credit: Steve Lars from Creative Ventures International & Steve Lars on Facebook

Related links:
Megadeth

MESHUGGAH's Jens Kidman & Tomas Haake Chat About 'KOLOSS' With Their Fans - Entire Video Available!

As you probably heard, MESHUGGAH’s eighth studio album, 'KOLOSS', will be released in North America on March 27th. The North American deluxe digi-pak version will include a bonus DVD. Yesterday, the band announced their first leg of their North American tour in support of 'KOLOSS' (a list of tourdates is available below).

Recently, Meshuggah's own Jens Kidman (Vocalist) and Tomas Haake (Drummer) took part in a video online chat via Ustream.tv. The two Metal maniacs answered their fans questions in regards to their NEW album, as well as everything Meshuggah. Here is the video of their entire web chat:

Track listing for Meshuggah's 'KOLOSS':

01. I Am Colossus
02. The Demon's Name Is Surveillance
03. Do Not Look Down
04. Behind The Sun
05. The Hurt That Finds You First
06. Marrow
07. Break Those Bones Whose Sinews Gave It Motion
08. Swarm
09. Demiurge
10. The Last Vigil

“The Ophidian Trek” tour dates with BARONESS & DECAPITATED:

4/29/12 House of Blues - Houston, TX
4/30/12 House of Blues - Dallas, TX
5/01/12 Emo’s - Austin, TX
5/03/12 Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ
5/04/12 House of Blues - Anaheim, CA
5/05/12 House of Blues - Hollywood, CA
5/06/12 The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA
5/08/12 Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, BC - CANADA
5/09/12 Showbox Sodo - Seattle, WA
5/11/12 Odgen Theatre - Denver, CO
5/13/12 First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
5/15/12 House of Blues - Chicago, IL
5/16/12 St. Andrews Hall - Detroit, MI
5/17/12 Sound Academy - Toronto, ON - CANADA
5/18/12 Theatre of the Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA
5/19/12 Palladium - Worcester, MA
5/20/12 Olympia de Montreal - Montreal, QC - CANADA
5/22/12 The Fillmore - Silver Springs, MD
5/23/12 Terminal 5 – New York, NY

KOLOSS can be pre-ordered now from Amazon.com.

Related links:
Nuclear Blast Streaming Room
Meshuggah's Official Site
Meshuggah on Facebook
Meshuggah on Twitter
Meshuggah on YouTube

Chuck Billy Discusses Touring With Anthrax & Death Angel + Upcoming Plans For Testament!

In case you have been living under a rock, Charles Billy (A.K.A. Chuck Billy) is the vocalist of Thrash Metallers Testament! Chuck joined Testament when band was still called Legacy. Coincidentally, Testament's first album was entitled "The Legacy" and was released in 1987. Ever since then, Chuck has remained a permanent member of the band (along with guitarist Eric Peterson). His vocal style is always evolving: Chuck combines a clear, high pitch Thrash style of singing with a deeper low register Death Metal style grunt. Ever since the 'Low' album, he has mixed both styles both on and off stage.

Yesterday, Chuck called us to discuss their current North American tour with Anthrax and Death Angel and to talk about all things Testament! According to Chuck, he has yet again pushed his vocals to the limit on the NEW Testament album entitled 'The Hard Roots Of Earth'. This time around he allowed producer Andy Sneap to produce his vocals, which is something that Chuck has never done before. During this extensive interview we also discussed the future plans of Testament, including their drummer situation and the production of their NEW music video. Check it out now!

Testament with Anthrax and Death Angel (Remaining tourdates):

Feb. 01 - Green Iguana Stadium - Tampa, FL
Feb. 02 – Tabernacle – Atlanta, GA
Feb. 03 – The LC Pavillion – Columbus, OH
Feb. 04 - Bogarts - Cincinnati, OH
Feb. 06 – Crockodile Rock – Allentown, PA
Feb. 07 – Ram’s Head Live – Baltimore, MD
Feb. 08 – Best Buy Theatre – New York, NY

Stay tuned for more information about Testament's NEW Album 'The Dark Roots Of Earth'!

Related links:
Testament
Antrax
Death Angel

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