DEVILDRIVER Guitarists Announce Blackstar Amplification Guitar Clinic!

 
According to Blabbermouth, DEVILDRIVER guitarists Michael Spreitzer and Jeff Kendrick of will be hosting a guitar clinic tour in the U.K. for Blackstar Amplification following the upcoming DEVILDRIVER/CANNIBAL CORPSE co-headlining tour!

Here are the dates for the Blackstar Amplification clinic:

- Monday, March 11: Merchant City Music, Glasgow

- Tuesday, March 12: PMT, Manchester

- Wednesday, March 13: PMT, Birmingham

- Friday, March 15: PMT, Northampton

- Saturday, March 16: Andertons, Guildford

DEVILDRIVER recently entered Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, Florida to begin recording its upcoming sixth album for a tentative August 2013 release via Napalm Records.

The DEVILDRIVER/CANNIBAL CORPSE trek begins on February 9th in Oulu, Finland at Teatrie Oulu, and will conclude on March 1oth in Glasgow, United Kingdom at ABC.

The confirmed tour dates are as follows:

Feb. 09 - Teatrie Oulu - Oulu, Finland
Feb. 10 - Pakkahuone - Tampere, Finland
Feb. 11 - Nosturi - Helsinki, Finland
Feb. 13 - Göta Källare - Stockholm, Sweden
Feb. 14 - Bewhouse - Gothenburg, Sweden
Feb. 15 - Amager Bio - Copenhagen, Denmark
Feb. 16 - Train - Århus C, Denmark
Feb. 17 - Gruenspan - Hamburg, Germany
Feb. 19 - 013 - Tilburg, Netherlands
Feb. 20 - Essifabrik - Cologne, Germany
Feb. 21 - Substage - Karlsruhe, Germany
Feb. 22 - Musichall - Geiselwind, Germany
Feb. 23 - Trix - Antwerpen, Belgium
Feb. 24 - Le Bataclan - Paris, France
Feb. 26 - Alcatraz - Milan, Italy
Feb. 27 - Les Docks - Lausanne, Switzerland
Feb. 28 - Komplex 457 - Zurich, Switzerland
Mar. 01 - Sudbahnhof - Chemnitz, Germany
Mar. 02 - Garage Club - Ostrava, Czech Republic
Mar. 03 - Columbia Club - Berlin, Germany
Mar. 05 - Backstage - Munich, Germany
Mar. 06 - Garage - Bous, Germany
Mar. 07 - Forum - London, United Kingdom
Mar. 08 - Rock City - Nottingham, United Kingdom
Mar. 09 - HMV Ritz - Manchester, United Kingdom
Mar. 10 - ABC - Glasgow, United Kingdom

Related links:
DevilDriver's Official Site

CHILDREN OF BODOM Release Video Update # 1 From The Studio!

Finland's Heavy Metal machines CHILDREN OF BODOM are currently tracking their ninth studio album, the follow up to 2011's 'Relentless Reckless Forever'. Here is video update # 1 from the band regarding the tracking of the album: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=561950340499621

As previously announced, the band has announced that they will not able to perform at Tuska Festival next year. The annual festival is set to take place June 28-30, 2013 in Suvilahti, Helsinki, Finland. The reason? Well, the band is scheduled to appear on a "big tour" in the United States. We think the band might be part of next year's Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival. As we all know, Mayhem Fest is the biggest Heavy Metal tour and it usually kicks off in late June.

Here is what the bands bassist Henkka Seppälä had to say: "We've been waiting to play Tuska for some years now. It is our home festival after all. Unfortunately, this year we have to sacrifice a couple of festivals in Europe in order to be able to be part of a big tour in USA. These are not easy nor nice decisions. We only can hope we can do Tuska in the near future again.

"Please stay tuned for our schedules for summer 2013. Fortunately, we are able to play shows in Europe as well. Looking forward!"

As previously reported, CHILDREN OF BODOM have inked a worldwide recording deal (excluding Japan) with Nuclear Blast Records. The celebrated Metal label -- who worked with the band over the early stages of its career -- is proud to announce the renewed partnership with the world famous band. Read the bands statement HERE!

Stay tuned for more updates on the NEW CHILDREN OF BODOM record!

Photo credit: Bards Eye Photography

Related links:

Children Of Bodom

NY Violin Metallers RESOLUTION 15 Return To The Stage Tomorrow With CAR BOMB & BANGLADEAFY!

As previously reported, our good friends from RESOLUTION 15 will be releasing a brand NEW full-length album entitled 'Svaha' on January 15th! In celebration of their highly anticipated release, the band will be performing at the Studio at Webster Hall tomorrow (Saturday, December 29th) with none other than CAR BOMB and BANGLADEAFY! Additionally, our founder Jö Schüftan will be DJing the event!

"We here at the RESOLUTION 15 camp are very excited to announce that after many months of hard work and preparation, as well as some recent line-up changes, we will be returning to the stage on Saturday, December 29th at the Studio at Webster Hall in New York City along with our good friends Car Bomb and Bangladeafy. Fans will have an exclusive opportunity to purchase our NEW full-length record “Svaha” before it is released to the general public on January 15th. 

"We will be joined onstage for the first time by our new bassist Mike Bendy, as well as a few special surprise guests.
   
"We are extremely psyched for our return, and can’t wait to give back to all of our fans, friends and family.  None of this would be possible without their continued love and support."

See you tomorrow headbangers!

Related links:
The Svaha Sessions on Bandcamp
Resolution 15
Resolution 15 on Facebook
Resolution 15 on Twitter

Former CEREBRAL BORE Vocalist Covers AQUA's "Barbie Doll"!

As previously reported, the members of Scotland' CEREBRAL BORE were recently punched in the face when their vocalist Simone "Som" Pluijmers unexpectedly left the band right before their recent tour with DYING FETUS. Read more HERE!

So what is "Som" up to now? Well, as you can see below she has decided to turn horrible Pop songs into nasty Death Metal tunes. Here is"Som" covering AQUA's mega hit "Barbie Doll". Sing along, you know you want to!



Related links:
Cerebral Bore

SUFFOCATION Unleash Trailer For NEW Album 'Pinnacle Of Bedlam'!

Recently, SUFFOCATION unveiled the track listing for their highly anticipated upcoming release, 'Pinnacle of Bedlam' HERE!. The album features 10 genre-defining-bone-crushing tracks and also marks the return of drummer Dave Culross, who played with the band previously on their 'Despise The Sun' EP. Founding member and former drummer Mike Smith also makes a special guest appearance on the re-recorded Breeding the Spawn track, “Beginning of Sorrow.”

'Pinnacle of Bedlam' is tentatively scheduled for a February 2013 release via Nuclear Blast in North America.

Earlier this week, the band announced that they will be filming a music video for their NEW song entitled "As Grace Descends" on Saturday, January 5, 2013, at Duff's Brooklyn. Fans are welcomed to join the SUFFOCATION party! More details coming soon!

Here is the official trailer for 'Pinnacle Of Bedlam':



'Pinnacle of Bedlam' was produced by the band and tracked at Full Force Studios in New York by longtime collaborator Joe Cincotta. The mixing and mastering was handled this time around by world renowned producer/engineer Zeuss (HATEBREED, ARSIS, SUICIDE SILENCE). Cover artwork for 'Pinnacle of Bedlam' was created by artist Raymond Swanland (DEEDS OF FLESH, PSYCROPTIC).

Frank Mullen, front man for New York Death Metal veterans SUFFOCATION, recently gave an interview to Horns Up Rocks that spread very quickly about him no longer performing with the band full time:



We also spoke with bands bassist Derek Boyer about the bands NEW album:



Videos by: Zulie Alvarez (www.zuliephotographierocks.com/)

Related links:
Suffocation's Official Site

Kennedy Center Honors LED ZEPPELIN - Video Of Historic Tribute Performances Available!

Yesterday (Wednesday, December 27, 2012), the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts honored seven individuals who received the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors. Here is the list of honorees at the 35th annual national celebration of the arts:

- Bluesman Buddy Guy
- Actor and director Dustin Hoffman
- Comedian and television host David Letterman
- Ballerina Natalia Makarova
- Rock band Led Zeppelin.

While Led Zeppelin were honored as a band, keyboardist/bassist John Paul Jones, guitarist Jimmy Page, and singer Robert Plant received the Kennedy Center Honors.

"With their extraordinary talent, creativity and tenacity, the seven 2012 Kennedy Center Honorees have contributed significantly to the cultural life of our nation and the world," said Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein. "Buddy Guy is a titan of the blues and has been a tremendous influence on virtually everyone who has picked up an electric guitar in the last half century; Dustin Hoffman's unyielding commitment to the wide variety of roles he plays has made him one of the most versatile and iconoclastic actors of this or any other generation; David Letterman is one of the most influential personalities in the history of television, entertaining an entire generation of late-night viewers with his unconventional wit and charm; Natalia Makarova's profound artistry has ignited the stages of the world's greatest ballet companies and continues to pass the torch to the next generation of dancers; and Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant transformed the sound of rock and roll with their lyricism and innovative song structures, infusing blues into the sound of rock and roll and laying the foundation for countless rock bands."

Here is what went down during the Led Zeppelin tribute:

1) Jack Black Introduction to Led Zeppelin = 00:00-7:00
2) Foo Fighters performing Rock and Roll = 7:05-9:21
3) Kid Rock performing Babe I'm Gonna Leave You Intro into Ramble On = 9:24-11:38
4) Lenney performing Whole Lotta Love = 11:43-13:47
5) Heart W/ Jason Bonham performing Stairway To Heaven = 13:49-20:37

Watch this kickass footage here:



Legions of fans worldwide were expecting a reunion tour following LED ZEPPELIN's triumphant reunion concert at London's O2 Arena in 2007. And apparently some of the members of the band also expected the reunion tour to happen. "Some of us thought we would be continuing, that there were going to be more concerts in the not-too-distant-future," Jimmy Page told Rolling Stone Senior Writer David Fricke in the NEW issue (on stands Friday). "Because there was a lot of work being put into the show."

"He was busy," says Page. "He was doing his Alison Krauss project. I wasn't fully aware it was going to be launched at the same time. So what do you do in a situation like that? I'd been working with the other two guys for the percentage of the rehearsals at the O2. We were connecting well. The weakness was that none of us sang."

Full article HERE!

Recently, the band released their NEW concert film "Celebration Day" at the historic Ziegfeld Theater in New York's theater district on October 9. Prior to the premiere, founding members John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant were joined by Jason Bonham, the son of their late drummer John Bonham, for a press conference at New York's Museum of Modern Art. Footage available HERE!

A one-minute TV commercial for "Celebration Day" can be seen HERE!

The film of "Celebration Day" saw a worldwide theatrical release by Omniverse Vision on 1,500 screens in over 40 territories on October 17.

"Celebration Day" is available now in multiple video and audio formats via Swan Song/Atlantic Records. Available for pre-order now, the details on all configurations of "Celebration Day" are listed here:

Related links:
Led Zeppelin

VOD's Tim Williams Discusses The Impact Of Hurricane Sandy & The Bands Newest Sonic Assault 'The Curse Remain Cursed'!

      Nextmosh photo gallery HERE!

Following the devastation brought on by Hurricane Sandy on October 29th, Long Island badasses Vision Of Disorder immediately reorganized their headlining show in Brooklyn, NY. On Saturday, November 24th the band organized a benefit show for the victims of Sandy. The event was coordinated by VOD along with Candlelight Records, Earsplit PR and Metal Insider.

100% of the ticket proceeds from VOD as well as supporting acts Yuppicide, Swarm of Arrows and Primitive Weapons were donated to the Red Cross to aid residents whose lives were impacted by the storm. Show attendees brought supplies for area shelters and food banks. Supplies to aid pets and animals displaced by the storm were donated to Last Resort Animal Rescue in New Jersey.

Following this very special show, we joined forces with our friends from Nextmosh and conducted an exclusive interview with VOD's own Tim Williams. During the interview we discussed the impact of Hurricane Sandy within the East Coast of the United States, and why the band decided to take matters into their own hands. We also discussed the band latest sonic assault 'The Cursed Remain Cursed' (available now via Candlelight Records).



Video interview shot by: Zulie Alvarez (www.zuliephotographierocks.com/)

Related links:
Vision Of Disorder on Facebook

CHILDREN OF BODOM: Drummer Jaska Raatikainen Updates Fans On Bands NEW Album!

Finland's Heavy Metal machines CHILDREN OF BODOM are currently tracking their ninth studio album, the follow up to 2011's 'Relentless Reckless Forever'. Here is an update that the bands drummer has just released regarding the tracking of the album:

"Yo!

"Today we had the last rehearsals before entering the studio tomorrow to record drums for the new album.

"Last two days have been quite intensive. Playing the songs over and over again, lots of fuck ups and broken drum sticks, sweating, frustration, coffee and what have you, a little bit of arranging and all that shit.

"I am convinced that the new songs are great. A little bit of black metal, heavy metal, metal, old school death metal, melodies, solos and anything you need to make a nice album. And the most important, new ideas à la COB!

"Stay tuned, studio reports will follow.

"Now I think I am ready for a beer!

"KIPPIS !!"

- Jaska

As previously announced, the band has announced that they will not able to perform at Tuska Festival next year. The annual festival is set to take place June 28-30, 2013 in Suvilahti, Helsinki, Finland. The reason? Well, the band is scheduled to appear on a "big tour" in the United States. We think the band might be part of next year's Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival. As we all know, Mayhem Fest is the biggest Heavy Metal tour and it usually kicks off in late June.

Here is what the bands bassist Henkka Seppälä had to say: "We've been waiting to play Tuska for some years now. It is our home festival after all. Unfortunately, this year we have to sacrifice a couple of festivals in Europe in order to be able to be part of a big tour in USA. These are not easy nor nice decisions. We only can hope we can do Tuska in the near future again.

"Please stay tuned for our schedules for summer 2013. Fortunately, we are able to play shows in Europe as well. Looking forward!"

As previously reported, CHILDREN OF BODOM have inked a worldwide recording deal (excluding Japan) with Nuclear Blast Records. The celebrated Metal label -- who worked with the band over the early stages of its career -- is proud to announce the renewed partnership with the world famous band. Read the bands statement HERE!

Stay tuned for more updates on the NEW CHILDREN OF BODOM record!

Photo credit: Bards Eye Photography

Related links:

Children Of Bodom

HATEBREED Unleash Second Trailer For 'The Divinity Of Purpose'!

As previously announced, HATEBREED are releasing their NEW studio album, 'The Divinity Of Purpose' on January 23, 2013 via Razor & Tie in North America/Canada and on January 25, 2013 via Nuclear Blast in Europe and various additional international territories. 'The Divinity Of Purpose', will be the band’s 6th official album to date, and the follow up to HATEBREED’s self-titled album and also their covers album, 'For The Lions' (both released in 2009). Track Listing HERE

STILLBORN FEST with EMMURE, LIONHEART, THIS IS HELL, THE WORLD WE KNEW and THY WILL BE DONE:

- 12/27: Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Chance

The band has released the second official trailer for 'The Divinity Of Purpose', watch it now!





Don't forget that HATEBREED will be touring with Shadows Fall, Dying Fetus, and The Contortionist. VIP meet n’ greet packages and pre-sale tickets will be available Thursday, November 29th (tomorrow) at 10 AM PST at http://www.hatebreed.com/vip

Here is the complete list of tour dates:

Jan 26 - Flint, MI - Machine Shop
Jan 27 - Joilet, IL - Mojoes
Jan 28 - Omaha, NE - Sokol Auditorium
Jan 30 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater

Jan 31 - Flagstaff, AZ - Orpheum Theater
Feb 1 - Los Angeles, CA - Roxy
Feb 2 –Chico, CA–Senator Theater
Feb 3 - Reno, NV - Knitting Factory
Feb 5 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep
Feb 6 - Wichita, KS - Cotillion
Feb 7 - Sauget, IL - Pop's
Feb 8 - Lexington, KY - Busters
Feb 9 - Nashville, TN - Marathon Music Works
Feb 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution
Feb 12 - Jacksonville, FL - Freebird Live
Feb 13 - Jacksonville, NC - Hooligans
Feb 14 - West Springfield, VA - Empire
Feb 15 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock
Feb 16 - Syracuse, NY - Westcott Theater
Feb 17 - Amityville, NY - Revolution

'The Divinity Of Purpose' was co-produced by HATEBREED, Chris "Zeuss" Harris (SUICIDE SILENCE, ALL THAT REMAINS, SHADOWS FALL) and Josh Wilbur (LAMB OF GOD, AVENGED SEVENFOLD), with Wilbur also handling mixing duties. The cover artwork was created and illustrated by Eliran Kantor (TESTAMENT, ATHEIST, SIGH, ANACRUSIS, GWAR) and can be seen below.



Listen to the NEW HATEBREED single HERE!
                   
HATEBREED will be headlining the EMP presents Persistence Tour 2013 in Europe in January 2013. For more information, check out www.persistencetour.de.

EMP PERSISTENCE TOUR 2013:

- Jan-10: Berlin @ Astra (Germany)
- Jan-11: Lint @ Eurocam Media Center (Belgium)
- Jan-12: Oberhausen @ Turbinenhalle (Germany)
- Jan-13: Paris @ Bataclan (France)
- Jan-14: Saarbrücken @ Garage (Germany)
- Jan-15: Wiesbaden @ Schlachthof (Germany)
- Jan-16: Hamburg @ Docks (Germany)
- Jan-17: Stuttgart @ Schleyerhalle (Germany)
- Jan-18: Lichtenfels @ Stadthalle (Germany)
- Jan-19: Dresden @ Event Werk (Germany)
- Jan-20: Tilburg @ O13 (Netherlands)

Related links:

Hatebreed.com

Hatebreed on Facebook

Hatebreed on Twitter

Public Memorial Announced For Mike Scaccia (MINISTRY/RIGOR MORTIS) - Details Available!

As previously reported HERE, Mike Scaccia passed away last night (Saturday, December 22) at the age of 47. According to Rolling Stone, Scaccia was performing onstage at the Rail Club in Fort Worth, Texas, as part of a 50th birthday celebration for Rigor Mortis singer Bruce Corbitt, when he collapsed. Shortly afterwards, he was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The official memorial for Mike Scaccia will take place this Sunday, December 30 at 3:00 p.m. at Aristide Event Center in Mansfield, Texas. The event is open to the public. Here is the address:

Aristide Event Center
570 North Walnut Creek Drive
Mansfield, TX 76063

Following the sad news of Scaccia's untimely passing, rumors surfaced regarding the cause of death. Thankfully, Corbitt took matters into his own hands in order to clear the rumors. Read more HERE!

Our hearts go out to Scaccia's family, friends, fans and all of his bandmates! ROCK IN PEACE!

Related links:
MINISTRY
Rigor Mortis

Comeback Of The Year 2012 In Heavy Music: The Return Of Jesse Leach To KILLSWITCH ENGAGE!

On Sunday, December 16th New England Metallers KILLSWITCH ENGAGE took over the Music Hall Of Williamburg in Brooklyn, New York, and celebrated the 10th anniversary of their groundbreaking album 'Alive Or Just Breathing'.

Following the bands ferocious and legendary set, it became very clear to us that Jesse Leach's return to the band is by far the comeback of the year 2012 in Heavy Music! Not only did the return of Leach revitalize the band and influenced their upcoming studio album (due in April of 2013 via Roadrunner Records), but it will surely help to keep Heavy Music rising in 2013 and beyond.

Here is a video special we produced in commemoration of KILLSWITCH ENGAGE's latest accomplishment!





There are only 2 shows on this NOT to be missed tour, which also features SHADOWS FALL and ACARO!

- December 27: Baltimore, MD at Rams Head Live
- December 29: Clifton Park, NY at Upstate Concert Hall

Related links:
Killswitch Engage

Rick Cimato: Video Footage Of His Last Performance With THINNING THE HERD At HORNS UP ROCKS' "Holiday Tribute Show To Dimebag Darrell & The Victims Of Hurricane Sandy"!

As previously reported, the New York City Heavy Music scene was struck with tragedy when news surfaced of the tragic passing of Rick Cimato of THINNING THE HERD (formerly of GODS GREEN EARTH and NASSAU CHAINSAW, among others). Yesterday morning, according to state police, Rick was involved in a head on collision that took his life as well as the life of Michael Heeks (who was driving the other car).

Reportedly, Heeks, 22, of Mansfield, was driving a 2011 Honda Accord northbound in the southbound lanes of Route 15 just after 2 a.m. when he hit a 2004 Hyundai Elantra head on near exit 66, by the Meriden town line with Wallingford. Heeks' car rolled over and landed upside down in the median.

Rick's brother Nicholas Cimato, 47, of New York City, and his girlfriend Ashley Robinson, 30, of Brooklyn, New York, both survived the crash and are expected to leave the hospital soon. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Here is video footage of Rick's very last performance with THINNING THE HERD HORNS UP ROCKS' "Holiday Tribute Show To Dimebag Darrell & The Victims Of Hurricane Sandy":



Related links:
Thinning The Herd
Rick Cimato's memorial page

THY WILL BE DONE's J. Costa Announces NEW Full Length Album; Reflects On Music & Life In 2012!

Earlier this year, THY WILL BE DONE unleashed one of the best EP's of 2012. Entitled 'Temple', the release saw the light of day via the band's own Eye.On Lion Recordings with INgrooves Fontana handling distribution. In times in which music is really hard to sell regardless of the quality of the product, THY WILL BE DONE proved that with the right batch of songs and some smart marketing, a solid EP can actually sell and help fund future projects.

We recently chatted with the bands frontman J. Costa after the KILLWITCH ENGAGE, SHADOWS FALL and ACARO show in Brooklyn, NY, and he revealed that the band is currently on a full length album that will NOT include any of the songs that are part of 'Temple'. However, he did mention that the direction of the NEW THY WILL BE DONE record will be within the lines of 'Temple'.

During the interview we also discussed the bands association with HATEBREED's Jamey Jasta, who they consider a mentor. Additionally, Costa reflects on 2012 and how the bands appearance at "Orion Music + More" was a dream come true! He also talked about how the passing of SUICIDE SILENCE's Mitch Lucker impacted the entire Heavy Music community and how it is a reminder to live every day like its your last one. Without further due, here is our exclusive interview with one of the best dudes in Metal, J. Costa from Rhode Island's THY WILL BE DONE! Enjoy it!



THY WILL BE DONE at the 2012 Stillborn Festival:

LINEUP:

- HATEBREED
- EMMURE
- LIONHEART
- THIS IS HELL
- THE WORLD WE KNEW
- THY WILL BE DONE

EVENT DATES:

- 12/26: New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place
- 12/27: Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Chance

Video by: Zulie Alvarez (www.zuliephotographierocks.com/)

Related links:
Thy Will Be Done on MySpace
Thy Will Be Done on Twitter

Following News Of His Engagement, Kirk Windstein Lashes Out At Blabbermouth & Calls Them "The National Enquirer Of Metal"

We want to congratulate Kirk Windstein, the master of the riff of DOWN, CROWBAR, and KINGDOM OF SORROW, on his engagement to Robin Dubroc over the Christmas holiday weekend. We want to wish them a life full of happiness and awesome times!

Following Windstein's announcement via his Facebook page, Blabbermouth took it upon themselves to break the news to the world about Windstein's engagement. Here is what they posted:

Windstein ended his previous relationship to a woman named Kate in early October and became romantically involved with Dubroc on October 18, according to Kirk's personal Facebook timeline. He wrote on October 4: "My world as I know it has been crushed... Kate doesn't want me anymore and I'm fucking devastated. It's not her fault, she just can't deal with me being gone all the time. I will always love her more than any woman." He added the next day: "I'll say one thing... my heart has been broken for the last time. I will never trust a woman with my heart ever again!!!" A week into his new relationship, on October 22, Kirk wrote: "I spoke to Robin for at least an hour and a half!!! The most special lady I know... To all who are hurting, giving up on love etc., let Robin and I be an example... By that I mean that your true love will come around. It took 47 years for me... but it is 'real' and I feel it... I have not felt this good since I was a kid!!! AMAZING what the right lady can do for your soul... I love you, Robin. Thanks for being you!!!" (Full article HERE!)
__________________________________________________________________________

After reading the article above, Windstein lashed out by posting the following message:

"PRETTY AMAZING HOW THEY LEAVE OUT ALL DETAILS ABOUT ROBIN AND I DATING 25 YEARS AGO, AND THEY LEAVE OUT ALL THE PROBLEMS KATE AND I HAD THROUGHOUT OUR 3 PLUS YEAR RELATIONSHIP, THEN THEY MAKE IT LOOK LIKE I JUST MET ROBIN WHILE WE'VE BEEN TALKING ALL ALONG... THE NATIONAL ENQUIRER OF METAL... FUCK ALL THE GOSSIP... I KNOW WHO I AM AND I KNOW WHO I WILL SPEND MY LIFE WITH... ROBIN!!!" - KIRK
__________________________________________________________________________

DOWN on tour:

- Fri Jan 11, 2013: Warehouse Live in Ballroom Houston, TX
- Sat Jan 12, 2013: Backstage Live in San Antonio, TX
- Mon Jan 14, 2013: The Marquee in Tempe, AZ
- Tues Jan 15, 2013: Hard Rock Cafe on the Strip in Las Vegas NV
- Wed Jan 16, 2013: Key Club in West Hollywood, CA
- Fri Jan 18, 2013: City National Grove in Anaheim Anaheim, CA
- Sat Jan 19, 2013: Ace of Spades in Sacramento, CA
- Sun Jan 20, 2013: Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, CA
- Tue Jan 22, 2013: Showbox at the Market in Seattle, WA
- Wed Jan 23, 2013: Roseland Theater in Portland, OR
- Thu Jan 24, 2013: Knitting Factory in Boise, ID
- Sat Jan 26, 2013: The Summit Music Hall in Denver, CO
- Mon Jan 28, 2013: First Avenue in Minneapolis, MN
- Tue Jan 29, 2013: The Rave in Milwaukee, WI
- Wed Jan 30, 2013: Bogart's in Cincinnati, OH
- Fri Feb 1, 2013: Track 29 in Chattanooga, TN

- April 10, 2033: Carioca Club in Sao Paulo, Brazil
- April 11, 2013: El Teatro (Flores) in Ciudad Autonoma De Buenos Aires, Argentina
- April 13, 2013: The Metal Fest Chile in Santiago, Chile

- May 25, 2013: Maryland Deathfest in Baltimore Maryland
- June 14-16, 2013: Provinssirock in Seinäjoki, Finland. (exact day coming soon)

HERE is an extensive gallery of DOWN's recent concert in New York City!

Recently, DOWN premiered a music video for their NEW song "Witchtripper". Watch it HERE!

Related links:
CROWBAR 
DOWN
KINGDOM OF SORROW 

PENNYWISE Announce U.S. Tour - Agenda Available!

Earlier this year, legendary Punk Rockers PENNYWISE released their 10th studio album called 'All Or Nothing' via Epitaph Records. Over this passed holiday weekend, the band announced the following tour dates:

- Feb 21: Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver, Canada

- Feb 22: Roseland Theater in Portland, OR

- Feb 23: Showbox SODO in Seattle, WA

- Feb 24: Midtown in Bend, OR

- Feb 27: Ace of Spades in Sacramento, CA

- Feb 28: Knitting Factory in Reno, NV

- Mar 01: Warfield Theatre in San Francisco, CA

- Mar 02: The Catalyst in Santa Cruz, CA

- Mar 08: Majestic Ventura Theater in Ventura, CA

- Mar 16: House of Blues in Las Vegas, NV

- Mar 22: House of Blues in San Diego, CA

- Mar 23: House of Blues in San Diego, CA

Related links:
Official Site of Pennywise

SUFFOCATION Announce Video Shoot At Duff's Brooklyn!

Recently, SUFFOCATION unveiled the track listing for their highly anticipated upcoming release, 'Pinnacle of Bedlam' HERE!. The album features 10 genre-defining-bone-crushing tracks and also marks the return of drummer Dave Culross, who played with the band previously on their 'Despise The Sun' EP. Founding member and former drummer Mike Smith also makes a special guest appearance on the re-recorded Breeding the Spawn track, “Beginning of Sorrow.”

'Pinnacle of Bedlam' is tentatively scheduled for a February 2013 release via Nuclear Blast in North America.

The band has just announced that they will be filming a music video for their NEW song entitled "As Grace Descends" on Saturday, January 5, 2013, at Duff's Brooklyn. Fans are welcomed to join the SUFFOCATION party! 
 
WHERE: Duff's Brooklyn (168 Marcy Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11211)

WHEN: Saturday January 5th 2013 at 4:00PM

Here is the lyric video for "As Grace Descends":

'Pinnacle of Bedlam' was produced by the band and tracked at Full Force Studios in New York by longtime collaborator Joe Cincotta. The mixing and mastering was handled this time around by world renowned producer/engineer Zeuss (HATEBREED, ARSIS, SUICIDE SILENCE). Cover artwork for 'Pinnacle of Bedlam' was created by artist Raymond Swanland (DEEDS OF FLESH, PSYCROPTIC).

Frank Mullen, front man for New York Death Metal veterans SUFFOCATION, recently gave an interview to Horns Up Rocks that spread very quickly about him no longer performing with the band full time:



We also spoke with bands bassist Derek Boyer about the bands NEW album:



Videos by: Zulie Alvarez (www.zuliephotographierocks.com/)

Related links:
Suffocation's Official Site

HATEBREED To Headline "Stillborn Fest" Tonight & Tomorrow Night!

As previously announced, HATEBREED are releasing their NEW studio album, 'The Divinity Of Purpose' on January 23, 2013 via Razor & Tie in North America/Canada and on January 25, 2013 via Nuclear Blast in Europe and various additional international territories (trailer available HERE). 'The Divinity Of Purpose', will be the band’s 6th official album to date, and the follow up to HATEBREED’s self-titled album and also their covers album, 'For The Lions' (both released in 2009). Track Listing HERE

After a few years of not hosting the "Stillborn Fest", HATEBREED will once again headline the event tonight (December 26) and tomorrow night (December 27). Details below.

LINEUP:

- EMMURE
- LIONHEART
- THIS IS HELL
- THE WORLD WE KNEW
- THY WILL BE DONE

EVENT DATES:

- 12/26: New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place
- 12/27: Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Chance

HATEBREED will be headlining the EMP presents Persistence Tour 2013 in Europe in January 2013. For more information, check out www.persistencetour.de.

EMP PERSISTENCE TOUR 2013:

- Jan-10: Berlin @ Astra (Germany)

- Jan-11: Lint @ Eurocam Media Center (Belgium)

- Jan-12: Oberhausen @ Turbinenhalle (Germany)

- Jan-13: Paris @ Bataclan (France)

- Jan-14: Saarbrücken @ Garage (Germany)

- Jan-15: Wiesbaden @ Schlachthof (Germany)

- Jan-16: Hamburg @ Docks (Germany)

- Jan-17: Stuttgart @ Schleyerhalle (Germany)

- Jan-18: Lichtenfels @ Stadthalle (Germany)

- Jan-19: Dresden @ Event Werk (Germany)

- Jan-20: Tilburg @ O13 (Netherlands)

Don't forget that HATEBREED will be touring with Shadows Fall, Dying Fetus, and The Contortionist. VIP meet n’ greet packages and pre-sale tickets are available now at http://www.hatebreed.com/vip

Here is the complete list of tour dates:

Jan 26 - Flint, MI - Machine Shop

Jan 27 - Joilet, IL - Mojoes

Jan 28 - Omaha, NE - Sokol Auditorium

Jan 30 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater

Jan 31 - Flagstaff, AZ - Orpheum Theater

Feb 1 - Los Angeles, CA - Roxy

Feb 2 –Chico, CA–Senator Theater

Feb 3 - Reno, NV - Knitting Factory

Feb 5 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep

Feb 6 - Wichita, KS - Cotillion

Feb 7 - Sauget, IL - Pop's

Feb 8 - Lexington, KY - Busters

Feb 9 - Nashville, TN - Marathon Music Works

Feb 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution

Feb 12 - Jacksonville, FL - Freebird Live

Feb 13 - Jacksonville, NC - Hooligans

Feb 14 - West Springfield, VA - Empire

Feb 15 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock

Feb 16 - Syracuse, NY - Westcott Theater

Feb 17 - Amityville, NY - Revolution

Related links:

Hatebreed.com

Hatebreed on Facebook

Hatebreed on Twitter

Tour Dates Revealed For The 2013 Metal Alliance Tour; ANTHRAX's Scott Ian Comments On The Trek!

As previously announced, in the spring of 2013, the headbangers of North America will welcome the third chapter of the Metal Alliance Tour! The lineup includes ANTHRAX, EXODUS, MUNICIPAL WASTE, HOLY GRAIL & more to be announced soon. Here is a message from ANTHRAX's own Scott Ian:

"Holy crap am I so excited about this year's Metal Alliance Tour!

"It's been a great year and a half for us since 'Worship Music' came out and to cap it off with a Grammy nomination.

"This is such a perfect lineup. To make this tour even more special, we will be playing our 'Among The Living' record in its entirety. I can't wait to play 'Horror Of It All'!

"Come on out and worship with us, my friends. You do not want to miss this. USA on Hell one more time."

The dates are as follows (General-admission tickets will go on sale on January 11):

Mar. 23 - House of Blues - Las Vegas, NV
Mar. 24 - Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ
Mar. 25 - House of Blues - San Diego, CA
Mar. 27 - House of Blues - West Hollywood, CA
Mar. 28 - Regency Ballroom - San Francisco, CA
Mar. 29 - The Crystal Ballroom - Portland, OR
Mar. 30 - Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, BC
Mar. 31 - Showbox SoDo - Seattle, WA
Apr. 02 - Summit Music Hall - Denver, CO
Apr. 04 - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
Apr. 05 - House of Blues - Chicago, IL
Apr. 06 - The Fillmore Detroit - Detroit, MI
Apr. 07 - Bogarts - Cincinnati, OH
Apr. 09 - House of Blues - Dallas, TX
Apr. 10 - House of Blues - Houston, TX
Apr. 12 - House of Blues - Lake Buena Vista, FL
Apr. 13 - Tremont Music Hall - Charlotte, NC
Apr. 14 - The Fillmore - Silver Spring, MD
Apr. 16 - House of Blues - Cleveland, OH
Apr. 18 - Theatre of the Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA
Apr. 20 - Irving Plaza - New York, NY

Related links:
Metal Alliance Tour
Anthrax
Mosh Potatoes
eOne Music

ARCH ENEMY Unleash 'ASTRO KHAOS 2012 - OFFICIAL LIVE BOOTLEG [CD+DVD]'!

This just in from the ARCH ENEMY camp:

 "Today we’re releasing ASTRO KHAOS 2012 - OFFICIAL LIVE BOOTLEG [CD+DVD] in Japan. At the end of our Japan tour in April 2012, we played two suddenly announced special intimate shows with setlists voted by the Japanese fans...the CD+DVD captures these very special moments..."

Fans outside of Japan can order it online: http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=QATE-10030

As previously reported, ARCH ENEMY's badass vocalist Angela Gossow has announced that the band will be taking a temporary hiatus. Read her statement HERE!

Related links:
Arch Enemy's Official Site

Tragedy Strikes The New York Metal Scene: Rick Cimato From THINNING THE HERD/GODS GREEN EARTH Passes Away During The Holiday Weekend!

Hey guys, Jö Schüftan here. I hope you all had a GREAT holiday weekend and that in 2013 all of your dreams come true!

It is with a very heavy heart that I need to break some very sad news, which I hate to do (but it is part of the "job"). My good friend Gavin Spielman, frontman from THINNING THE HERD, has posted the following message regarding the passing away of his best friend and drummer Rick Cimato:

"I just found out my best friend and drummer Rick was killed in a car accident this weekend.

"I don't think I can continue with Thinning the Herd anymore."

- Gavin

RECENT UPDATES: 

"Rick was in an auto accident last night... he did not survive it. His brother Nick and Ashley are both in surgery. Pray for all, I am devastated by his loss." - Marian Cimato (family member)

"Rick Cimato, my old roommate, band mate, and friend was killed yesterday in a car accident coming home from his Moms in Maine. Somewhere in CT a 22yr old was driving north in the southbound lane. Head on collision. His gf Ashe and brother Tony are in hospital in surgery due to severe injuries." - Jason Madrock

"Ashley is OK. She broke her left eye socket and ruptured spleen, but is OK. Nick is also out of surgery and is going to be fine." - Posted on Rick Cimato's memorial page

______________________________________________________________________

Via NBC:

According to state police, Michael Heeks, 22, of Mansfield, was driving a 2011 Honda Accord northbound in the southbound lanes of Route 15 just after 2 a.m. when he hit a 2004 Hyundai Elantra head on near exit 66, by the Meriden town line with Wallingford.

Heeks' car rolled over and landed upside down in the median.

Heeks died in the crash, as did the driver of the Hyundai, 37-year-old Patrick Cimato, of Lisbon Falls, Maine. Cimato was driving in the proper direction when he was hit by the car driven by Heeks, police said.

Cimato's two passengers, Nicholas Cimato, 47, of New York City, and Ashley Robinson, 30, of Brooklyn, New York, both survived the crash.
______________________________________________________________________

Please take a moment to send Rick, his family, his friends, and his band mates in both THINNING THE HERD and GODS GREEN EARTH, the most rocking positive vibes!

I was honored to have had Rick perform his very last show at the Horns Up Rocks' "Holiday Tribute Show For Dimebag Darrell and the victims of Hurricane Sandy" with THINNING THE HERD, and I will personally never forget how he was the first person I ran into when I arrived at The Trash Bar that Saturday, December 8th. ROCK IN PEACE brother and see you on the other side!

Recently, THINNING THE HERD unfurled a brand NEW self-released video from their pending third full-length, 'Freedom From The Known', the album recorded over the Summer by Steve Albini (NIRVANA).

With February 2, 2013, now confirmed as the street date for 'Freedom From The Known', THINNING THE HERD’s psychedelic self-released video for the opening track from the album, “Never Wanted,” brings some fun and shame and good old fashioned filth back to Rock without a dribble of pretentiousness. Stated Stoner/Rock/Metal portal The Obelisk about the NEW visual depiction of the track: “Some videos just have it all, man. Drug innuendo, psychedelic booty dancing, a swirling drummer, tripped out ’90s-type digital effects, Orange stacks, the Buddha. The list goes on.”

Watch the video here:



Related links:
Thinning The Herd

SHADOWS FALL's Brian Fair Discusses Touring With KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, Pass Times & NEW Baby!

Earlier this year, the seventh studio album by New England Metallers Shadows Fall entitled 'Fire From The Sky' was released via Razor & Tie records. The NEWEST 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'

So when KILLSWITCH ENGAGE announced their North American tour dates for the 10th anniversary tour for their groundbreaking album 'Alive Or Just Breathing', it was no surprise that they recruited SHADOWS FALL as direct support for their celebratory trek.

We were present at one of the tours last stops at Music Hall Of Williamsburg in Brooklyn, NY, 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. 

Prior to the bands ferocious set, we took over their bus and sat down with Brian Fair (vocalist) to discuss the relationship between SHADOWS FALL and KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, and how it felt to be touring together for the first time in many years. We also discussed the bands future plans and he even broke the news to us that him and his wife Abigail (who owns Sweet Seed Textiles) are expecting their first child. We also discussed Brian's love for skateboarding, beer, music and... without further due, here is our interview with Brian Fall from Shadows Motherfuc*ing Goddamn Fall!

SHADOWS FALL & KILLSWITCH ENGAGE Holiday Shows:

- Dec 27: Rams Head Live in Baltimore, MD
- Dec 28: Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA
- Dec 29: Upstate Concert Hall in Clifton Park, NY

Don't forget that SHADOWS FALL will be touring with Hatebreed, Dying Fetus, and The Contortionist. Here is the complete list of tour dates:

Jan 26 - Flint, MI - Machine Shop
Jan 27 - Joilet, IL - Mojoes
Jan 28 - Omaha, NE - Sokol Auditorium
Jan 30 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater

Jan 31 - Flagstaff, AZ - Orpheum Theater
Feb 1 - Los Angeles, CA - Roxy
Feb 2 –Chico, CA–Senator Theater
Feb 3 - Reno, NV - Knitting Factory
Feb 5 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep
Feb 6 - Wichita, KS - Cotillion
Feb 7 - Sauget, IL - Pop's
Feb 8 - Lexington, KY - Busters
Feb 9 - Nashville, TN - Marathon Music Works
Feb 11 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution
Feb 12 - Jacksonville, FL - Freebird Live
Feb 13 - Jacksonville, NC - Hooligans
Feb 14 - West Springfield, VA - Empire
Feb 15 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock
Feb 16 - Syracuse, NY - Westcott Theater
Feb 17 - Amityville, NY - Revolution

Video & photo by: Zulie Alvarez (www.zuliephotographierocks.com/)

Related links:

Official Site of Shadows Fall

Shadows Fall on MySpace

BLAST FROM THE PAST: SUICIDE SILENCE Turn Into Santa Claus To Make Kids In Need Very Happy - Video Available!

California Deathcore Metallers Suicide Silence, have always been known for setting themselves apart from the competition by creating original music that conveys the bands message flawlessly. Last Christmas, the band decided to take over the role of Santa Claus and deliver presents to kids in need. Here is what the band had to say at the time:

"We sold the shirt Mitch wore in the "You Only Live Once" video and spent all of the money on toys for less fortunate kids. A very special thanks to the Variety Boys & Girls Club: Pueblo Del Sol Unit in Downtown Los Angeles for all of their cooperation. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!"



The Heavy Music world was struck earlier this year by the very sad news that Mitchell Adam Lucker passed away at the young age of 28 (More information HERE). According to the Los Angeles Times, Lucker struck a light pole near the intersection of Main and 13th streets and was thrown from his 2013 Harley Davidson. The motorcycle continued sliding south on Main Street and struck a northbound 2007 Nissan Titan pickup.

Last Friday (December 21), the remaining members of SUICIDE SILENCE - Chris Garza, Mark Heylmun, Alex Lopez and Dan Kenny - were joined by many of Heavy Music's finest to pay tribute to their frontman Mitch Lucker. See some video footage HERE!

Here is one of the last interviews that Mitch ever conducted:



Related links:
Official Site of Suicide Silence

NAPALM DEATH Sends A Warm Yet Crushing Holiday Message To Their Fans!

Earlier this year, NAPALM DEATH released their 14th studio album 'Utilitarian' all over the world via Century Media Records! The Birmingham, UK Metallers recently wrapped up a massive tour with MUNICIPAL WASTE, EXHUMED and VEKTOR.

The band recently posted the following holiday message for their global audience:

"Hey Everyone!!! Many, many thanks for the great support you guys have shown us again and again, after so many shows in support of 'Utilitarian' this year it's a really nice feeling to know that people still like what we do and we truly appreciate it! We never take that for granted. We are all off in different corners of the world enjoying the Holiday's our own way and recharging the Grind batteries for next year already, so we wish every Napalm Death fan out there Lots of good stuff, peaceful times and Positivity, however you spend this time of year! Cheers and see you all soon X"

During the New York City stop of their recent tour, we had the chance to chat with "Barney" about the bands first U.S. tour in many years, about the state of the world today, and about their latest album! Grind it up, spark it up, and listen!



Related links:
Napalm Death

Mark Tremonti Announces Plans For 2013, Which Include NEW ALTER BRIDGE Music!

Mark Tremonti (CREED/ALTER BRIDGE/THE TREMONTI PROJECT) is not showing any signs of slowing down anytime soon! Not only will he be touring with his solo band in 2013 (tour dates below), which will once again feature VAN HALEN's Wolfgang Van Halen on bass, but he has announced via his Facebook page that he will be working on some NEW ALTER BRIDGE music right after the holidays:

"Spending the holidays with my family up in Chicago. When I get home we begin writing the next Alter Bridge album!"

Here is the touring agenda for THE TREMONTI PROJECT in 2013:

2-2-2013:	Copenhagen, Denmark at	Amager Bio
2-3-2013:	Hamburg, Germany at	Gruenspan
2-4-2013:	Berlin, Germany at	Lido
2-6-2013:	Frankfurt, Germany at	Zoom
2-7-2013:	Munich, Germany at	Backstage Halle
2-9-2013:	Milan, Italy at	Magazzini Generali
2-10-2013:	Zurich, Switzerland at	Komplex 457
2-12-2013:	Tilburg, Netherlands at	013
2-14-2013:	Wolverhampton , England at	Wulfrun Hall
2-16-2013:	Edinburgh, Scotland at	Liquid Room
2-17-2013:	Manchester, England at	HMV Ritz
2-18-2013:	London, England at	Electric Ballroom
2-21-2013:	Pontiac, MI at	The Crofoot Ballroom
2-22-2013:	Libertyville, IL at	Austin's Fuel Room
2-23-2013:	Minneapolis, MN at	Mill City Nights
2-25-2013:	Colorado Springs, CO at	Black Sheep
2-27-2013:	Spokane, WA at	Knitting Factory
3-3-2013:	Scottsdale, AZ at	Pub Rock Live
3-5-2013:	West Hollywood, CA at	Roxy Theatre

Here is a recent interview we conducted with Mark Tremonti:



Related links:
MarkTremonti.net

Screw Christmas, Today Is LEMMY's 67th Birthday!

Heavy Metal icon Ian Fraser Kilmister (A.K.A. Lemmy Kilmister) from Motörhead is celebrating his 67th birthday today! Please put your Horns Up, serve yourself some Jack and Coke, and crank up some Motörhead! HEAVY birthday Lemmy, we love you! \m/

For over thirty-five Lemmy Kilmister has been changing the face of Heavy Metal and has been making it a lot more fun. After a quick stint with Hawkwind, Lemmy realized that he was ready to form his own band and become the emblem of such band. In 1975, Lemmy formed Motörhead and immediately started making his presence be felt by helping to launch the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal"!

In the early 80's Motörhead had several singles in the UK Top 40 chart. Their albums "Overkill", "Bomber", "Ace of Spades", and "No Sleep 'til Hammersmith", engraved Motörhead as one of the most important Heavy Metal bands to ever come from the UK. To this day, you hear Motörhead's music on movies, TV shows, and covered by bands all over the world. As we all know, Lemmy is one of the most influential Heavy Metal icons of all time, and whoever said that Lemmy is God, is absolutely right.

Motörhead's 21st studio album "The World Is Yours" was released in February of 2011, and it is considered one of the best albums in the long killer history of the Motörhead franchise. The first track “Born to Lose", which is Lemmy’s slogan (he has it tattooed on his right arm) kicks off the album with furious power. Then, one song after the other the Motörhead train gets loaded on Jack and Coke without losing focus and keeping their batteries charged.

As previously reported, MOTÖRHEAD have announced that they will be entering the studio in January with longtime producer Cameron Webb to begin recording their next studio album for a mid-2013 release. "We'll go into the rehearsal room about a month before the album and just bang stuff out," MOTÖRHEAD mainman Lemmy Kilmister tells Billboard.com.

In a recent interview with Artisan News, MOTÖRHEAD drummer Mikkey Dee stated about the band's plans for a new CD, "We have a lot of songs done already. It's not finished. We're gonna keep writing and we'll record it next year, and it will come out next year."

In other MOTÖRHEAD news, the band has unleashed 'The Wörld Is Ours - Vol 2 - Anyplace Crazy As Anywhere Else', the follow-up to 2011’s 'The Wörld Is Ours - Vol 1 - Everywhere Further Than Everyplace Else'.

Here is an interview we conducted with Lemmy earlier this year:







Related links:
Motörhead
Lemmy on Facebook
Motörhead on Twitter

AMON AMARTH Release NEW Album Update!

According to Blabbermouth, Sweden's Metal maniacs AMON AMARTH have recruited British producer Andy Sneap (MEGADETH, EXODUS, MACHINE HEAD, ARCH ENEMY, ACCEPT) to take command of the board for what is to be their ninth studio album, tentatively due in June 2013 via Metal Blade Records.

This is what the bands guitarist Olavi Mikkonen told Decibel magazine about the production of the follow up to 2011's critically acclaimed 'Surtur Rising', which saw the band performing two sets on what they dubbed as "An Evening With AMON AMARTH" tour.

"We are still in the writing process, and are right now working on finishing the last pieces".

Regarding AMON AMARTH's decision to work with Sneap after utilizing Jens Bogren for the band's last three studio efforts - 2006's 'With Oden On Our Side', 2008's 'Twilight Of The Thunder God' and 2011's 'Surtur Rising' - Mikkonen said, "We were looking for a change, and Andy has been in our thoughts for some years now. After meeting with him, we felt a good connection. We think this is going to be a ripper."

Stay tuned for more updates on AMON AMARTH!

Related links:
Amon Amarth's Official Site
Amon Amarth on MySpace
Amon Amarth on Facebook
Amon Amarth on Twitter

Bruce Corbitt Reveals The Cause Of Death Of His Bandmate Mike Scaccia (MINISTRY & RIGOR MORTIS)!

As previously reported HERE, Mike Scaccia passed away last night (Saturday, December 22) at the age of 47. According to Rolling Stone, Scaccia was performing onstage at the Rail Club in Fort Worth, Texas, as part of a 50th birthday celebration for Rigor Mortis singer Bruce Corbitt, when he collapsed. Shortly afterwards, he was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Following the sad news of Scaccia's untimely passing, rumors surfaced regarding the cause of death. Thankfully, Corbitt has taken matters into his own hands in order to clear the rumors. Here is what he was posted on his Facebook page:

"Please everyone... I know there has been so many rumors and reasons that Mike passed away. This stuff about strobe lights is totally false. I wanted to wait for the official cause of death to be released. But I already knew when it happened. Here is the official word... RIP Mike Scaccia. SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH Due to: ATHEROSCLEROTIC AND HYPERTENSIVE HEART DISEASE"

Corbitt has always been paying tribute to his friend and bandmate today, here are some heart felt words he posted earlier today:

"Mike was always so close to his parents. When his Mom passed away... he called me and asked me to come up to the studio and be with him when he recorded this song he wrote to have played at his Mom's funeral. So I went to Kerry Crafton's studio to support him during his huge loss. I was touched at the strength and emotion he showed that night when they were recording these tracks.

"I know that no one had the privilege to watch Mike play guitar more than Casey, Harden and myself. We always knew all sides of Mike's talents. He could play anything... as you can see in this video. Love ya and miss ya bro!"



Our hearts go out to Scaccia's family, friends, fans and all of his bandmates! ROCK IN PEACE!

Related links:
MINISTRY
Rigor Mortis

Blast From The Past: Watch SLIPKNOT's Groundbreaking Debut At The Dynamo Open Air In 2000!

On June 3, 2000, SLIPKNOT debuted at the Dynamo Open Air in Nijmegen, Holland. For many years the bands vocalist Corey Taylor considered the performance below as the best one in the bands career. Charged with eleven songs and plenty of fire, SLIPKNOT went insane as soon as they stepped on stage with their infamous intro "742617000027" and didn't stop until their closed their set with "Surfacing". Watch the video below to see how thousands of fans raged out of control to the demonic sounds of one of the most important bands in Heavy Music history!

Live at Dynamo Open Air, Nijmegen, Holland: June 3, 2000. SETLIST:

1. 742617000027 - 0:00
2. (sic) - 1:57
3. Eyeless - 5:25
4. Wait and Bleed - 10:25
5. No Life - 13:10
6. Liberate - 16:55
7. Purity - 20:59
8. Prosthetics - 25:20
9. Spit It Out - 31:20
10. Get This - 37:50
11. Surfacing - 40:15



Personnel Aside from their real names, members of the band are referred to by numbers zero through eight.

(#8) Corey Taylor: Vocals
(#7) Mick Thomson: Guitars
(#0) Sid Wilson: Turntables
(#6) Shawn Crahan: Custom percussion, backing vocals
(#2) Paul Gray: Bass
(#1) Joey Jordison: Drums, mixing
(#3) Chris Fehn: Custom percussion, backing vocals
(#4) Jim Root: Guitars (Performed on "Purity" and "Me Inside")
Josh Brainard: Guitars (not credited)
(#5) Craig Jones: Samples, media

Related links:
SLIPKNOT's Official Site