VISION OF DISORDER Seem To Have A NEW Drummer; Band Continues To Devastate The West Coast!

After getting flourished with accolades by the Heavy Music world after the release of their latest album 'The Cursed Remain Cursed' (available now via Candlelight Records), VISION OF DISORDER are currently rocking the West Coast of the United States Of America. The band is also confirmed for this year's Soundwave Festival in Australia and the Download Festival in the U.K.

Tonight, the band will be performing at the legendary Whiskey A Go Go in Los Angeles, California.

One big surprise this year, is that apparently VOD have a NEW drummer. If you have been to any of their recent shows, you might have noticed that the bands original drummer Brendon Cohen is not sitting on the drumming throne. Additionally, the band posted this hilarious picture of the band in Seattle, Washington. As you can see Cohen is not pictured here:

We reached out to the bands vocalist Tim Williams to see if he can confirm if the band has a NEW drummer and he answered "keep you posted". So in other words, he is not confirming or dismissing this piece of news. We will let you know as soon as more information becomes available.

Related links:
Vision Of Disorder on Facebook
VOD on MySpace

EXODUS: 11 Years Since The Passing Of Paul Baloff, Listen To 'Bonded By Blood' In His Memory!

Today (February 2), the Heavy Music world remembers Paul Baloff from EXODUS. Baloff is considered by many headbangers of the world, as the best frontman that the band ever had on board. We agree! So take a moment today to remember Baloff and crank 'Bonded By Blood' below.

Here are some facts about Baloff career:

- Paul Baloff was the second vocalist with Exodus replacing Keith Stewart in 1981 and singing on their 1982 Demo and their first official album 'Bonded by Blood' in 1985.

- Following the recording of a three song demo in 1986, Paul Baloff was dismissed from Exodus after "personal and musical differences", although he still had writer credits on their next album 'Pleasures of the Flesh'.

- After leaving Exodus, he sang in several bands in the San Francisco Bay area, such as Piranha, Hirax, and Heathen.

- In 1997, when Exodus decided to reunite, Baloff was again invited to sing with the band.

- In 2002 Paul Baloff suffered a stroke which left him in a coma and he was taken off life support by doctors. He was 41 years old.

Paul Baloff's Discography:

- 1982 Demo (1982)
- Bonded by Blood (1985)
- Lessons in Violence (1992)
- Another Lesson in Violence (1997)



Related links:
Exodus' official site 

Andrew W.K. To Perform At A Super Bowl Party In New York City!

Tomorrow (February 3), the self proclaimed king of partying, Andrew W.K., will be performing at a Super Bowl party in New York City. The event will take place at Andrew's own "party house": Santos Party House. The venue is located in downtown Manhattan and it kicks ass. Here is a word from Andrew about tomorrow's party:


"Welcome to Andrew W.K.'s Super Bowl party! At this amazing event, we'll be streaming the entire Super Bowl, serving up tons of amazing PARTY PIZZA from the legendary Roberta's of Brooklyn, all game long, and you get a free drink with the price of entry! Then, at half time, we'll bring up the lights and feature awesome rockin' performances by Andrew W.K. himself, along with sets by the super awesome MC Todd & Aleister X! Experience Super Bowl Sunday like only Santos can bring it!"

WHAT: Andrew W.K.'s Super Bowl Party and Half-Time solo set at Santos Party House!
WHEN: THIS SUNDAY!!! February 3rd, 2013 at 5:30 PM ET.
WHERE: Santos Party House located in Downtown, Manhattan at 96 Lafayette Street between Walker and White.

BUY TICKETS

THE TREMONTI PROJECT, With Wolfgang Van Halen On Bass, Are Ready For Europe!

Mark Tremonti's THE TREMONTI PROJECT are kicking off their European tour tonight at Amager Bio in Copenhagen, Denmark. Once again, VAN HALEN's Wolfgang Van Halen will be playing bass with the band.

THE TREMONTI PROJECT European Tour:

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

Here is a recent interview we conducted with Mark Tremonti:



Related links:
MarkTremonti.net

BLACK SABBATH's Geezer Butler: Mad Updates Available, Including NEW Album Status & Touring Plans!

Recently, BLACK SABBATH revealed that the release of their NEW album has been postponed. Originally the record was set to be released this April, but now the band has announced that it won't be out until June. According to Geezer Butler, production for the band's first record with frontman Ozzy Osbourne since the release of 'Never Say Die!' in 1978, has been completed and the record is currently being mixed.

During an interview with Eddie Trunk during NAMM, which concluded this past Sunday, January 27. Geezer also announced that the band will be touring the United States this July and August, and will be touring South America for the very first time in October. Additionally, the band plans to close the year by touring Europe in November and December.
As far as that their NEW album title. He doesn't find '13' to be a "constructive" album title, and they will only keep that title if they can't find a better title. What should they entitle their album? Lets us know at the comments section below!
Here is the interview:



As previously reported, the band recruited drummer Brad Wilk from RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE to lay down the drum tracks on '13'.

Upcoming BLACK SABBATH tour dates:
- Apr 20: Auckland Vector Arena, New Zealand
- Apr 22: Auckland Vector Arena, New Zealand
- Apr 25: Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Australia
- Apr 27: Sydney All Phones Arena, Australia
- Apr 28: Melbourne Rod Laver Arena, Australia
- May 1: Melbourne Rod Laver Arena, Australia
- May 4: Perth Arena, Australia
- May 12: Ozzfest, Tokyo Makahari Messe, Japan

Related links:
Click To Watch BLACK SABBATH's Comeback Show!
BLACK SABBATH's Official Website

THE CASUALTIES Announce U.S. Headlining Tour With GOATWHORE & HAVOK!

Infamous New York City street punks THE CASUALTIES have announced their first U.S. headlining dates of 2013. The band will co-headline a string of southern and west coast dates with GOATWHORE in March and April. Additional support will come from HAVOK. The trek starts on March 27th, in Houston, TX and runs through April 9th, in Seattle, WA. A full listing of confirmed dates is below.

THE CASUALTIES are touring in support of their latest album, 'Resistance' (released by Season of Mist September 2012). The Zeuss-produced effort is their ninth full-length album and can be streamed HERE.

The band recently completed an extensive European headlining tour that took them through ten countries over three weeks.

'Resistance' is available on CD, limited edition LP (with bonus track and download card) and limited edition Digibox including the CD with a bonus track, bandana, bottle opener and patch. Get it HERE!

Tour dates are as follows:

- 3/27: Houston, TX @ Fitzgerald's
- 3/28: Corpus Christi, TX @ Zeros
- 3/29: San Antonio, TX @ Korova
- 3/30: Dallas, TX @ Club Dada
- 4/1: Albuquerque, NM -2H Launchpad
- 4/2: Tempe, AZ @ Rocky Point
- 4/3: Santa Ana, CA @ Observatory (also with DR. KNOW)
- 4/4: W. Hollywood, CA @ House Of Blues
- 4/6: Oakland, CA @ Oakland Metro
- 4/7: Reno, NV @ The Alley
- 4/8: Portland, OR @ Branx
- 4/9: Seattle, WA @ Studio Seven

Related links:
The Casualties on Facebook
Goatwhore's official site
Havok's official site

One Year Since The NYC Heavy Music Scene Lost "Evil" Steve Ventura

One year ago, 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 will always be 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 that he was.

While Steve might have made some mistakes in his past, just like most of us have. He is not remembered because of the errors he committed... today he is 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 miss you very much! \m/



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

Click to see more pictures taken by Steve Ventura

TRIVIUM's Matt Heafy & Epiphone Present: The Ltd. Ed. Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom - Video Available

Epiphone and Trivium's Matt Heafy present the Ltd. Ed. Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom and the Ltd. Ed. Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom-7 seven-string, two new and totally killer original takes on the world famous Les Paul. Designed in close collaboration with Matt Heafy, each Ltd. Ed. Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom reflects Heafy's distinctive approach to guitar, which has earned him and Trivium scores of dedicated fans around the world. Each of Trivium's albums has sold over half a million copies worldwide. Check out a Trivium performance and you'll see why. The rule books on how-to-play a Les Paul go right out the window when Heafy plugs in and his revolutionary use of an LP Custom seven-string is a breakthrough in contemporary Metal and Hard Rock. Now, Matt Heafy joins an illustrious group of Epiphone artists like Slash, Frank Iero, Joe Bonamassa, and Zakk Wylde with the introduction of two signature models, the Epiphone Ltd. Ed. Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom and the Ltd. Ed. Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom-7.



As previously reported, pre-production to the follow up for 2011's 'In Waves' (available now via Roadrunner Records) began this Monday, January 14. The band newest musical assault is being produced by DISTURBED's frontman David Draiman. Here are a few pictures of the band working on some ideas with Draiman under the helm: http://hornsuprocks.blogspot.com/2013/01/trivium-to-join-forces-with-disturbed.html

Related links:
Trivium
Epiphone 

HATEBREED Receive National Guard Honorary Flag & Plaque For Supporting The Troops!

The HATEBREED camp were recently presented with an honorary United States flag and plaque from the National Guard for continuously supporting to the troops! This might be the most important "award" the band has ever received, since they are all about leaving the name of their country up high wherever they may roam. We can't think of a band that deserves this accolade more than HATEBREED.
 
Congrats to Jamey Jasta, Chris Beattie, Matt Byrne, Frank Novinec and Wayne Lozinac. Here is a picture that Beattie posted on his Instagram account:

Earlier this week, HATEBREED unleashed 'The Divinity Of Purpose', their most explosive record to date. This is the bands debut album on their NEW label home Razor & Tie Records. The bands promise of "all pit, no shit" on their seventh studio album, was delivered in style! Here is our complete review.

Track listing for 'The Divinity Of Purpose':

    01: Put It To The Torch
    02: Honor Never Dies
    03: Own Your World
    04: The Language
    05: Before The Fight Ends You
    06: Indivisible
    07: Dead Man Breathing
    08: The Divinity Of Purpose
    09: Nothing Scars Me
    10: Bitter Truth
    11: Boundless (Time To Murder It)
    12: Idolized And Vilified


'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.

You can listen to the entire album at this link, then you should buy it!

www.hatebreed.com

Don't forget to catch HATEBREED on "The Divinity Of Purpose Tour" along with Shadows Fall, Dying Fetus, and The Contortionist.

Here are the remaining tour dates:

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

EPICA 10th Anniversary Celebration "Retrospect" = Bands Most Ambitious Project To Date!

On March 23rd, internationally renowned Metal band Epica will celebrate their 10^th anniversary with a special performance entitled “Retrospect” which will take place in the Klokgebouw in Eindhoven, in their home country the Netherlands.
“Retrospect” will be Epica’s most ambitious project to date, joined by a 70-piece symphonic orchestra and choir, international guests and lots of special effects.

 

Especially for this show the band has invited the Hungarian Extended Remenyi Ede Chamber Orchestra and Choir of Miskolc National Theatre, the same orchestra and choir with whom Epica recorded the highly acclaimed live album “the Classical Conspiracy”. This anniversary show will be a “Retrospect” on Epica’s career and will contain all trademark elements you can expect from Epica.

 

INFORMATION:

Tickets are available: www.epica.nl, www.epica-retrospect.com and www.klokgebouw.nl. Special VIP-tickets are available as well and cost €65,- + service costs. VIPs will get early access to the venue and exclusive VIP goodies.

Epica is:

- Simone Simons: Vocals
- Mark Jansen: Guitar
- Isaac Delahaye: Guitar
- Yves Huts: Bass
- Coen Janssen: Synthesizer, piano
-Ariën van Weesenbeek: Drums

Related links:
Official Site of Epica
Epica's Blog
Epica on MySpace
Epica on Facebook
Epica on YouTube
Epica on Twitter

STONE SOUR Reveal Artwork & Track Listing For 'House Of Gold & Bones Pt 2'; Band Confirms Tour With IN THIS MOMENT!

As previously announced, part II of STONE SOUR's double album entitled 'House Of Gold & Bones' will be released sometime in April via Roadrunner Records. Today, the band has revealed the track listing for part II of their dual effort and have also confirmed a nation wide tour with IN THIS MOMENT! Tour dates will be announced soon.

House of Gold & Bones Part 2 - Track Listing:

12. Red City
13. Black John
14. Sadist
15. Peckinpah
16. Stalemate
17. Gravesend
18. ‘82
19. The Uncanny Valley
20. Blue Smoke
21. Do Me A Favor
22. The Conflagration
23. The House Of Gold & Bones

“Me and the guys in Stone Sour are very excited, not only to be a part of the Golden Gods, but also to be headline the first 'Road To The Golden Gods Tour'! The Golden Gods is the only awards show in America that truly recognizes and honors our genre; so to be a part of a tour that they sponsor is something that we are all very proud of. We’re looking forward to the tour, and looking forward to the awards ceremony. We promise we will have something special that no one will ever forget!” - Corey Taylor

STONE SOUR released 'House of Gold & Bones Part I', on October 22 via Roadrunner Records; it debuted in the Top 10 on the Billboard Top 200 album charts.

STONE SOUR's current tour dates are as follows, with more to come:

- February 1: Amarillo, TX at Aztec Music Hall
- February 2: Lubbock, TX at Lonestar Pavilion
- February 4: Midland, TX at Midland Horseshoe Arena
- February 5: College Station, TX at Hurricane Harry's
- February 7: Corpus Christi, TX at Concrete Street Amphitheatre
- February 8: Pharr, TX at Pharr Entertainment Center
- February 9: Laredo, TX at Laredo Energy Center
- February 12: Tempe, AZ at Marquee Theatre
- February 13: Los Angeles, CA at Club Nokia
- February 15: Las Vegas, NV at The Joint
- February 16: Salt Lake City, UT at Salt Air
- February 17: Denver, CO at Fillmore

STONE SOUR at Soundwave:

Sat February 23, 2013 – BRISBANE, AUS (Soundwave)
Sun February 24 – SYDNEY, AUS (Soundwave)
Fri March 1 – MELBOURNE, AUS (Soundwave)
Sat March 2 – ADELAIDE, AUS (Soundwave)
Mon March 4 – PERTH, AUS (Soundwave)

Related links:
Stone Sour's Official Site
Stone Sour on Facebook
Stone Sour on MySpace

Throwback Thursday: KISS's First National TV Appearance (Presented By: Dick Clark)

It is time for another "Throwback Thursday" video! This one is pretty damn legendary. Why? Well, it features the very first television appearance from KISS, whom are celebrating 40 years of Rock N' Roll domination. More info HERE!

This performance took place on February 19, 1974, and it was part of "Dick Clark's In Concert" series, which was hosted by the late great Dick Clark on ABC television.

The band performed: 

- "Nothin' to Lose"
- "Firehouse"
- "Black Diamond"



 Personnel:

- Paul Di'anno: Vocals
- Steve Harris: Bass
- Dave Murray: Guitar
- Adrian Smith: Guitar
- Clive Burr: Drums

Related links:
KISS Online

"The Dark Roots Of Thrash Tour" Has Begun, TESTAMENT & OVERKILL Make History Together!

Yesterday (January 30), TESTAMENT kicked off their North American tour with OVERKILL, FLOTSAM & JETSAM (on select dates), and 4ARM. History was written at the first show, which took place at the Fillmore in San Francisco, California. Not only was it the first concert of TESTAMENT's first headlining tour since the release of their phenomenal chart success 'Dark Roots of Earth' (available now via Nuclear Blast Records), but it also marked the first time that the band joined forces with OVERKILL for a tour in over 25 years.

The tour continues tonight at the House Of Blues in Anaheim, California, and will be trekking through the United States until the end of February.

TESTAMENT, OVERKILL, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, 4ARM (remaining tour dates):

1/30: The Filmore – San Francisco, CA*
1/31: House of Blues – Anaheim, CA*
2/1: The Marquee – Tempe, AZ*
2/2: House of Blues – Hollywood, CA*
2/4: Sunshine Theater – Albuquerque, NM*
2/5: Emo’s – Austin, TX
2/6: House of Blues – Houston, TX
2/7: House of Blues – Dallas, TX
2/9: Masquerade – Atlanta, GA
2/10: The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC
2/12: The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD
2/13: Trocadero – Philadelphia, PA
2/14: Best Buy Theatre – New York, NY
2/15: The Paramount – Huntington, NY
2/16: The Palladium – Worcester, MA
2/17: Town Ballroom – Buffalo, NY
2/18: Phoenix Concert Theatre – Toronto, ON
2/20: Bogart’s – Cincinnati, OH
2/21: The Intersection – Grand Rapids, MI
2/22: The Rave – Milwaukee, WI
2/23: First Avenue – Minneapolis, MN
2/25: The Summit Music Hall – Denver, CO
2/26: In The Venue – Salt Lake City, UT
2/27: Knitting Factory – Reno, NV
2/28: Ace Of Spades – Sacramento, CA
* – Denotes FLOTSAM AND JETSAM will not be playing

We recently chatted with Chuck Billy from TESTAMENT about this tour and how the band plans to celebrate their 25th anniversary:




Related links:  
Testament's Official Site

Sweden's AVATAR Performs In The United States For The First Time Ever - Review Available!

Yesterday (January 30), AVATAR performed in U.S. soil for the very first time in the bands 10+ year career. This very special concert took place in New York City at The Studio At Webster Hall in front of a pretty enthusiastic crowd. The band made their presence be felt from the moment they stepped on stage and left the crowd wanting more when they had to finalize their ferocious display of Swedish melodic Death Metal infused with elements of Rock N' Roll.

We had the chance to chat with the bands vocalist Johannes Eckerström right after the band was finished with their set, and he couldn't wipe off the smile off his face. During the interview, which is coming soon, Eckerström commented on the bands first show in the U.S.:

"The reason why it took this long for us to come to America was because we were waiting for the right way to do this. Playing here is very expensive... it's not like when we go to play in Denmark, for example. We really needed the support of a label, so we could do this the right way. Many of us have known each other since our teen years, playing covers and such, so we have always focused on our music first. We are happy to finally be playing here!"

The band released their newest record, 'Black Waltz' last year to much critical acclaim. "Black Waltz's comparable musical style and spare production brings a fresh, raw immediacy to these ten stellar songs." says OUTBURN Magazine. The band has been making waves in Europe with multiple appearances on festivals like Sweden Rock Festival, Metalcamp (Slovenia) and Metaltown (Sweden). AVATAR has supported acts such as Helloween, In Flames and Megadeth over the years as well. Now it is America's turn!

The band is about to hit the road with LACUNA COIL and SEVENDUST, make sure you don't miss their set. They rock! AVATAR tour dates with LACUNA COIL and SEVENDUST:


02/02/13 - Winston-Salem, NC @ Ziggy's
02/03/13 - Jacksonville, NC @ Hooligans
02/05/13 - Lancaster, PA @ Chameleon Club
02/06/13 - Clifton Park, NY @ Upstate Concert Hall
02/07/13 - Portland, ME @ The Asylum
02/08/13 - Allentown, PA @ Crocodile Rock
02/09/13 - Lynchburg, VA @ Phase 2
02/10/13 - Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works
02/12/13 - Fayetteville, AR @ George's Majestic Lounge
02/14/13 - Biloxi, MS @ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
02/15/13 - Broussard, LA @ The Station
02/16/13 - Beaumont, TX @ Dixie Dance Hall
02/17/13 - Little Rock, AR @ Revolution! Music Room
02/19/13 - Springfield, IL @ Boondocks
02/21/13 - Bloomington, IL @ The Castle Theatre
02/22/13 - South Bend, IN @ Club Fever
02/23/13 - Cedar Falls, IA @ Pepsi Pavilion

Related links:
Avatar's Official Site

ABSU Announce the "North American Connexus Conjuration"

ABSU today announces details on their upcoming tour, titled "North American Connexus Conjuration". The 26-city tour will see the band perform two full sets with music spanning their 20-year recording career. It is the first full tour by the Texas-based mythological occult trio since the release of 'Abzu', the second of a planned trilogy of recordings.

Vocalist/drummer Proscriptor shares, “Since the release of our latest recording, 'Abzu', the response has been extremely vehement and now is the perfect moment to commemorate the album’s essence throughout North America. We purposely waited until the timing was ideal to embark on this journey, as we shall contaminate the communities with our craft of Mythological Occult Metal. We’re attempting to divide the concerts into two sections: the first act will showcase songs spanning from our entire discography, as the second act will focus on Phase Two from the album 'Tara: The Cythrául Klan’s Scrutiny'. For the past couple of years, many of ABSU’s followers have requested specified songs from this chapter of 'Tara', so it is our aspiration to give the people what they want.”

'Abzu', the band’s seventh studio album, was released October 2010. The album was mixed by J.T. Longoria (King Diamond/Solitude Aeternus) and features original works by Polish artist Zbigniew Bielak (Watain, Behemoth, Destroyer 666, Vader). Proscriptor commented, "With this record, we are appending dirtier elements of psychedelia and fusion. Lyrically, it descends deeper into Enki's lower world as well the Enochian Magic(k) System." He added, "This album is not a 'natural progression' from previous releases, but a feat of metaphysical conquest and murkiness."

ABSU came to prominence with the release of their 1993 debut, 'Barathrum: V.I.T.R.I.O.L'. Each album saw continual expansion of the band’s now highly regarded artistic vision and international fanbase. It was with 2001’s 'Tara' that the band truly arrived. The album reached top lists of countless magazines worldwide. Years, however, would pass before any NEW material would be recorded. In late 2007, the band finally announced their re-awakening. Now teamed with London-based Candlelight Records, the band would take nearly sixteen months writing/recording their sixth album. 'Abzu', featuring contributions from members of King Diamond, Mayhem, Melechesh, Firstborn and Enthroned, was released early 2009.

ABSU North American Connexus Conjuration:

- 4/05/2013: Millcreek Tavern in Philadelphia, PA
- 4/06/2013: Roger’s in Chesapeake, VA
- 4/07/2013: Strange Matter in Richmond, VA
- 4/08/2013: The Windup Space in Baltimore, MD
- 4/09/2013: Middle East/Upstairs in Cambridge, MA
- 4/10/2013: St. Vitus in Brooklyn, NY
- 4/11/2013: St. Vitus in Brooklyn, NY
- 4/12/2013: El N Gee in Hartford, CT
- 4/13/2013: Theatre Plaza in Montreal, QC
- 4/14/2013: L’Agitee in Quebec City, QC
- 4/15/2013: Wreck Room in Toronto, ON
- 4/16/2013: Ace of Cups in Columbus, OH
- 4/17/2013: Mojoe’s in Chicago, IL
- 4/18/2013: Rocco’s in Milwaukee, WI
- 4/19/2013: Station 4 in Minneapolis, MN
- 4/20/2013: Zoo Cabaret in Winnipeg, MT
- 4/22/2013: Dickens Pub in Edmonton, AB
- 4/24/2013: Biltmore Cabaret in Vancouver, BC
- 4/25/2013: Highline in Seattle, WA
- 4/26/2013: Ash Street Saloon in Portland, OR
- 4/27/2013: Festum Carnis (Shinneybook Creek Cabins) Soda Springs, CA
- 4/28/2013: DNA Lounge in San Francisco, CA
- 4/30/2013: The Vex in Los Angeles, CA- 5/01/2013: Ruby Room in San Diego, CA
- 5/02/2013: Rocky Point Cantina in Tempe, AZ
- 5/04/2013: Boiler Room in Dallas, TX

ABSU currently features guitarist Vis Crom and bassist/vocalist Ezezu with vocalist/drummer Proscriptor.

Related links:

Absu's official site

Absu on Facebook

Absu on Bandcamp

Candlelight Records' official site

Candlelight Records on Facebook

ADRENALINE MOB Announces U.S. Tour; Covers EP 'Coverta' Out Soon!

In support of their album 'Omerta' and debut single, "Come Undone", ADRENALINE MOB will be commencing a U.S. tour on March 12th the legendary Toads Place in New Haven, Connecticut. Additionally on that day, the band will be releasing 'Coverta', an eight-track EP featuring cover versions of some of the band’s favorite songs. Long time fans of Mike Portnoy are aware of the multiple cover CDs he has released with Dream Theater and with Neal Morse. 'Coverta' is the first CD of covers recorded by ADRENALINE MOB.  

The tracks on Coverta are:

1-High Wire- Badlands
2- Stand Up and Shout- Dio
3- Break on Through- The Doors
4- Romeo Delight- Van Halen
5- Barracuda- Heart
6- Kill the King- Rainbow
7- The Lemon Song- Led Zeppelin
8- The Mob Rules- Black Sabbath

The tour will consist of two legs this spring. The dates for the first leg are:

Tue 12 Mar - New Haven CT @ Toads Place
Wed 13 Mar - New York NY @ Marlin @ Webster Hall
Thu 14 Mar - Pittsburgh PA @ Altar Bar
Fri 15 Mar - Allentown PA @ Crocodile Rock
Sat 16 Mar - West Springfield VA @ Empire
Mon 18 Mar - Jacksonville FL @ Brewster’s Roc Bar
Tue 19 Mar - Tampa FL @ Orpheum
Wed 20 Mar - Orlando FL @ The Haven
Fri 22 Mar - Houston TX @ Scout Bar
Sat 23 Mar - San Antonio TX @ Backstage Live
Sun 24 Mar - Dallas TX @ Trees
Tue 26 Mar - Albuquerque NM @ Launch Pad
Wed 27 Mar - Phoenix AZ @ Joe's Grotto
Thu 28 Mar - San Diego CA @ Brick By Brick
Fri 29 Mar - Las Vegas NV @ Cheyenne Saloon
Sat 30 Mar - Los Angeles CA @ Roxy
Mon 01 Apr - Colorado Springs CO @ Black Sheep
Tue 02 Apr - Kansas City KS @ The Voodoo Lounge
Thu 04 Apr - St Louis MO @ Fubar
Fri 05 Apr - Nashville TN @ Exit IN
Sat 06 Apr - Atlanta GA @ Masquerade
Sun 07 Apr - Richmond VA @ Kingdom

Tickets for all shows go on sale this weekend.

Nothing More will be the support act on the first leg.

ADRENALINE MOB is: Russell Allen (Symphony X), Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater), and Mike Orlando (Sonic Stomp)

Related links:
Official Site Of Adrenaline Mob

Rob Caggiano: "My heart simply wasn't in it anymore. Anthrax was never a creative outlet for me."

As you all know, Rob Caggiano recently announced that he was leaving Anthrax in order to focus on producing records (he is currently producing the NEW Volbeat album). More info HERE!

During a recent interview with ProSound Newtwork, Caggiano broke his silence on why he left Anthrax:

"My heart simply wasn't in it anymore. I had a blast playing with those guys, and they will always be family to me. But outside of my guitar solos and production work, Anthrax was never a creative outlet for me.

"That wasn't by any choice of my own, by the way; it's just the way it is. But at the same time I was committed 100percent to the band. It's been a blast playing with those guys. I love them dearly and I wouldn’t change a thing about the last 12 years.

"I guess it just got to the point where I started asking myself: 'What the hell am I doing? I'm a musician – this is who I am. Being creative is simply food for my soul. Why am I devoting all of my time and energy into a band where being creative is impossible for me?'

"It simply stopped making sense a while ago. I ended up feeling very unhappy and unfulfilled. I knew I needed to make a major change.

"I'm producing the new Volbeat album and I'm extremely amped up about this one. It's the best thing that could have happened to me at the best possible time, and so far, I think it's my best work to date."
Asked if he's going to miss playing in Anthrax, the guitarist admits: "I already do – but at the same time I'm very excited to see what the future has in store for me. Leaving Anthrax was an emotional decision, but it was also extremely liberating at the same time. I definitely feel like I made the right choice."

Credit must be given to Caggiano for doing what he loves and not compromising!
 
Related links:
Follow Rob Caggiano on Twitter

AMORPHIS Unleash Cover Artwork & Track Listing For 'Circle'

Finland's AMORPHIS 11th full length release is entitled 'Circle' and will see the light of day on April 19, 2013 (Europe) and April 30 (North America) via Nuclear Blast records.
The follow-up to 2011’s highly successful masterpiece 'The Beginning Of Times' (Finnish charts: #1, German charts: #16) was produced and mixed by HYPOCRISY/PAIN mastermind Peter Tägtgren (CHILDREN OF BODOM, CELTIC FROST, IMMORTAL, DIMMU BORGIR). Tracking was done at Petrax Studio in Hollola (NIGHTWISH, CHILDREN OF BODOM, KORPIKLAANI) and 5K Studios in Helsinki, Finland.

Here is the album cover for 'Circle':

Circle CD+DVD digipak track list:

1. Shades Of Gray
2. Mission
3. The Wanderer
4. Narrow Path
5. Hopeless Days
6. Nightbird's Song
7. Into The Abyss
8. Enchanted By The Moon
9. A New Day
10. Dead Man's Dream (Bonus Track)

Bonus DVD:

- The Making Of Circle
- Nightbird’s Song (video clip)

Circle jewel case CD track list:

1. Shades Of Gray
2. Mission
3. The Wanderer
4. Narrow Path
5. Hopeless Days
6. Nightbird's Song
7. Into The Abyss
8. Enchanted By The Moon
9. A New Day

More details HERE!
Related links:
Amorphis' Official Site
Amorphis on Facebook
Amorphis on Nuclear Blast Records

HAVOK Premiere Music Video For “Point Of No Return”!

HAVOK’s latest video has premiered today via Bloody Disgusting. “Point Of No Return” is the title track to the band’s EP, released last Spring as a tide-me-over while the band continued their non-stop touring. The video was directed by Roy Warner and filmed on location in Detroit, Michigan.

Discussing the video, vocalist/guitarist Dave Sanchez elaborates, "The lyrics of ‘Point Of No Return’ are highly interpretable, but the message of the video pretty simple: The world as we know it is a delicate place and we have never had such a high capacity to destroy the human race as we do now. At some point, our self-made concoction of nuclear/biological weaponry, ancient superstitious beliefs, nationalism, corruption, ignorance, and conflicting ideologies is going to become lethal, on a global scale. We live in a time like no other and it’s obvious that if we don’t change our behavior, it’s only a matter of time before the world is extinguished at the hand of fanatics. It’s literally within everyone’s power to leave the world a little nicer than we found it. Don’t believe everything you’re told: Think for yourself.”

Director Roy Warner notes, “Working with the guys from HAVOK was great. They had awesome ideas to start out with and build from; wanting to showcase real life as the concept. It really illustrates the depths of human depravity in the past, present and what we can expect from the future if attitudes don’t change.”

Watch “Point Of No Return” here (courtesy of Bloody Disgusting):



HAVOK fans can expect the Denver-based thrashers to keep an active schedule for 2013. Sanchez says, “We’re currently wrapped up in the studio writing our NEW album. We should be finished recording in March and then, in usual HAVOK fashion, we’ll tour practically all year! There are lots of exciting things coming up in 2013. Keep an eye out for tour dates and we’ll see all of you on the road soon! Until then, spread the word and support Heavy Metal."

Related links:
Havok's official site
Havok on Facebook
Candle Light Records

Details For The REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS AWARD SHOW Revealed: METALLICA To Headline!

America’s only Hard Rock and Heavy Metal award show is back for 2013! The fifth annual REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS AWARD SHOW presented by Epiphone® will take place on Thursday, May 2, 2013 at Club Nokia in downtown Los Angeles, California.


The biggest Heavy Music awards show in all of the America's will be hosted by Fozzy frontman and WWE pro-wrestling legend Chris Jericho. The nominees in 11 different fan-voted categories, plus the recipients of this year’s prestigious “Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award” (presented by Ernie Ball), “Golden God Award” (presented by Sumerian Records) and “Riff Lord” (presented by EMG Pickups), were revealed at a press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood in Los Angeles.

Host Chris Jericho was on hand, along with Sebastian Bach, Five Finger Death Punch, Halestorm, Scott Ian (Anthrax), Maria Brink and Chris Howorth (In This Moment), John 5 (Rob Zombie), Greg Puciato (Dillinger Escape Plan) and Zakk Wylde to announce the nominees. Halestorm performed a special live set, including a guest appearance by Sebastian Bach on a cover of the Skid Row classic “Slave to the Grind.”

Fans everywhere can cast their vote to decide who will take home the awards for “Best Guitarist” (presented by Epiphone), “Best Drummer” (presented by Drum Workshop), “Best Vocalist” (presented by Rockstar Energy Drink), “Album of the Year” (presented by Orange Amplification), “Song of the Year,” “Best Live Band” (presented by Samson/Zoom), “Best New Talent,” “Most Metal Athlete,” (presented by Roadrunner Records), “Comeback of the Year,” “Paul Gray Best Bassist” (presented by Dean Markley) and “Most Dedicated Fans” (presented by Xbox LIVE).

Voting is now open at GoldenGodsAwards.com and ends April 15.


The Golden God Award (presented by Sumerian Records), which is given to one special honoree a year who embodies the spirit of Hard Rock and Metal, will go to Rob Zombie, who commented, “What can I say? It is a complete honor to receive this award and have my name join the list of such legendary past winners as Alice Cooper and Gene Simmons. Pretty cool deal to be part of the Golden God club.” (The other previous honorees are Rob Halford of Judas Priest and Dave Mustaine of Megadeth.) Rob Zombie will be releasing his brand NEW album, 'Venomous Rat Regeneration Vendor'  (Zodiac Swan/T-Boy/Ume), on April 23, and his latest feature film, "The Lords of Salem" (Anchor Bay), on April 26.
The Ronnie James Dio Lifetime Achievement Award (presented by Ernie Ball), will go to Metallica, who will release the 3D movie "Through the Never" in August. (Previous honorees include Rush, Motley Crue, Lemmy Kilmister of Motorhead and Ozzy Osbourne.)

Metallica’s Lars Ulrich commented, “Since the Revolver Golden Gods Awards is fast becoming THE most rocking awards ceremony in the hard rock world, we are beyond psyched to be at the receiving end of this shout out and in the distinguished company of Rush, Lemmy, Ozzy and Motley Crue. I was hanging out and presenting at the shenanigans two years ago and the energy in the room and the vibe backstage was beyond fucking cool, so Metallica is chomping at the bit to partake in this year’s event. Once again, we are honored to be recognized as achievers (!!) and we can’t wait to get up and jam onstage and sweat for and on everybody gathered.”

The Riff Lord Award, (presented by EMG Pickups) is given each year to a legendary guitarist in the field of hard rock & heavy metal. This year it’s going to none other than Black Sabbath axeman, Tony Iommi, who had this to say about the honor, “What a great honour to receive the Golden Gods Riff Lord Award for 2013, especially with our new Sabbath album coming out. I hope there will be some new favorite riffs in these songs.” Slash of Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver won the award last year.

Adding to the celebration, the 2013 Revolver Golden Gods Awards show will feature one-of-a-kind special performances and collaborations that honor both the past, present and future of heavy music. The night’s Hard Rocking musical performances will include sets by Metallica, Five Finger Death Punch, Anthrax, Stone Sour, Dillinger Escape Plan and Halestorm, with more performers to be announced in the coming weeks.

Ivan Moody, lead singer of Five Finger Death Punch, had this to say about his band’s Golden Gods performance, “Being in the studio these last few months working on our new album, the momentum has been building. We are ready to be back where we belong—onstage in front of all of you! What better way to play our first show of 2013 than with our family at Revolver Magazine and on America’s only Hard Rock and Heavy Metal awards show!”

Returning as well is the “Black Carpet” pre-show that will be hosted by legendary Heavy Metal frontmen Sebastian Bach and Dee Snider. Bach and Snider will be interviewing all the nominees, honorees and performers on the Revolver Black Carpet before show time for the special, which will air on both AXS TV and Xbox LIVE.

Also announced today was the launch of the first-ever Revolver Road to the Golden Gods Tour. Featuring Stone Sour and In This Moment, the 30-city national tour will kick off in March and conclude at the 2013 Revolver Golden Gods Awards Show. Stone Sour lead singer Corey Taylor says, “Me and the guys in Stone Sour are very excited, not only to be a part of the Golden Gods, but also to be headline the first Road to the Golden Gods Tour! The Golden Gods is the only awards show in America that truly recognizes and honors our genre; so to be a part of a tour that they sponsor is something that we are all very proud of. We’re looking forward to the tour, and looking forward to the awards ceremony. We promise we will have something special that no one will ever forget!”

Cast your vote now at GoldenGodsAwards.com. The nominees for the 2013 Revolver Golden Gods Awards presented by Epiphone are:

BEST GUITARIST presented by Epiphone
• John 5 (Rob Zombie & solo)
• Stephen Carpenter (Deftones)
• Alex Lifeson (Rush)
• Misha Mansoor (Periphery)
• Brendon Small (Dethklok)
• Kim Thayil (Soundgarden)

BEST DRUMMER presented by Drum Workshop
• Abe Cunningham (Deftones)
• Mario Duplantier (Gojira)
• Arejay Hale (Halestorm)
• Gene Hoglan (Dethklok & Testament)
• Roy Mayorga (Stone Sour)
• Neil Peart (Rush)

PAUL GRAY BEST BASSIST presented by Dean Markley
• Rex Brown (Kill Devil Hill)
• Steve Harris (Iron Maiden & solo)
• Lemmy Kilmister (Motörhead)
• Geddy Lee (Rush)
• Jason Newsted (Newsted)
• Sergio Vega (Deftones)

BEST VOCALIST presented by Rockstar Energy Drink
• Phil Anselmo (Down & solo)
• Maria Brink (In This Moment)
• Chris Cornell (Soundgarden)
• Lzzy Hale (Halestorm)
• Chino Moreno (Deftones)
• Corey Taylor (Stone Sour & Slipknot)

BEST NEW TALENT
• Device
• Ghost
• Kvelertak
• Miss May I
• Of Mice & Men
• Young Guns

MOST METAL ATHLETE presented by Roadrunner Records
• Tom Crabtree (Green Bay Packers, NFL)
• Tanner Faust (Rally and drifting car racing)
• Clay Guida (Mixed Martial Arts fighting, UFC)
• Triple H (WWE wrestling)
• Geoff Rowley (Skateboarding)
• CJ Wilson (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, MLB)

BEST LIVE BAND presented by Samson/Zoom
• Anthrax
• Five Finger Death Punch
• Hatebreed
• Lamb of God
• Slipknot
• Volbeat

COMEBACK OF THE YEAR
• Aerosmith
• The Darkness
• Quicksand
• Refused
• Soundgarden
• Tenacious D

SONG OF THE YEAR
• Asking Alexandria, “Run Free”
• Avenged Sevenfold, “Carry On”
• Black Veil Brides, “In The End”
• Dethklok, “I Ejaculate Fire”
• Halestorm, “Love Bites (So Do I)”
• In This Moment, “Blood”

MOST DEDICATED FANS presented by Xbox LIVE
• Black Label Society
• Black Veil Brides
• A Day To Remember
• HIM
• Rammstein
• Slipknot

ALBUM OF THE YEAR presented by Orange Amplification
• Deftones, Koi No Yokan
• Gojira, L’Enfant Sauvage
• Halestorm, The Strange Case of…
• Marilyn Manson, Born Villain
• Soundgarden, King Animal
• Stone Sour, House of Gold & Bones Part 1


For more information on tickets for the REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS AWARDS, visit axs.com.

Related links:
Revolver's Official Site

Four Stages To Host Heavy Music's Finest At The Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival!

This year for the first time Mayhem will be rocking with FOUR stages! The Rockstar Energy Drink main stage, the Jägermeister Festival Stage, the Musician’s Institute Festival Stage and the Sumerian/Headbang for The Highway Stage. Who would you like to see on those stages in 2013?

While the lineup won't be announced until Monday, March 18, 2013, BEHEMOTH have already confirmed the presence! Other bands rumored to be part of this year's fest are CHILDREN OF BODOM, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE and THE BLACK VEIL BRIDES.


Here is the partial list of tour dates (more dates will be announced soon):

Jun 29:	San Bernardino, CA	San Manuel Amphitheater
Jun 30:	Mountain View, CA	Shoreline Amphitheatre
Jul 02:	Nampa, ID	Idaho Center Amphitheatre
Jul 03:	Auburn, WA	White River Amphitheatre
Jul 05:	Phoenix, AZ	Desert Sky Pavilion
Jul 06:	Albuquerque, NM	Isleta Amphitheatre
Jul 07:	Englewood, CO	Fiddler's Green Ampitheatre
Jul 10:	Toronto, ON CA	Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
Jul 12:	Burgettstown, PA	First Niagara Pavilion
Jul 13:	Camden, NJ	Susquehanna Bank Center
Jul 14:	Darien Center, NY	Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
Jul 16:	Mansfield, MA	Comcast Center
Jul 17:	Bangor, ME	Bangor Waterfront
Jul 19:	Scranton, PA	Toyota Pavilion
Jul 20:	Saratoga Springs, NY	Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Jul 21:	Hartford, CT	The Comcast Theatre
Jul 23:	Holmdel, NJ	PNC Bank Arts Center
Jul 24:	Bristow, VA	Jiffy Lube Live
Jul 26:	Noblesville, IN	Klipsch Music Center
Jul 27:	Tinley Park, IL	First Midwest Bank Ampitheatre
Jul 28:	Clarkston, MI	DTE Energy Music Theatre
Jul 30:	Atlanta, GA	Lakewood Amphitheatre
Jul 31:	Tampa, FL	1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre
Aug 2:	Austin, TX	TBA
Aug 3:	The Woodlands, TX	Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Aug 4:	Dallas, TX	Gexa Energy Pavilion

Related links:
Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival