MOTOR SISTER New Album "Ride" Streaming In Full on AllMusic

Available March 10th via Metal Blade Records

"All you really need to know about Ride is that it kicks a massive amount of ass"

-Revolver-

"This is kick ass classic sounding hard rock! Blazing guitars, great vocals and songs! Everything I love most about hard rock music in one killer album."

-Eddie Trunk-

"MOTOR SISTER put on a show that I can only sum up as "neck breaking fun."

-Skulls n Bones-

MOTOR SISTER is a group of musicians whose collective musical pedigrees speak for themselves. Mother Superior founder, guitarist, and vocalist Jim Wilson fronts the band, with Anthrax's Scott Ian on guitar, Pearl Aday on backing vocals, Joey Vera on bass, and John Tempesta on drums.

Until today, only select songs have been made available for public consumption. However this changes today as MOTOR SISTER has teamed up with AllMusic to give an exclusive full album premiere Ride. Listen to the album in its entirety HERE.

The video for "Fork in the Road" which provides a rare glimpse into the recording of this Mother Superior favorite by MOTOR SISTER can be viewed HERE.

The group was originally assembled to jam for Scott Ian's fiftieth birthday party. Thanks to Scott's wife Pearl Aday, who has been working on her solo career with Mother Superior front man Jim Wilson for years, all it took was a quick phone call and the stage was literally set for Scott's dream gig. "I wanted to cherry-pick a set list of my favorite Mother Superior songs and get these guys together and have the concert at my house," Ian says of the event that eventually led to an album.

"[Mother Superior] frontman Jim [Wilson] was totally into the idea. Pearl was a huge Mother Superior fan from way back and was in. I asked my good friends Joey Vera (Fates Warning, Armored Saint) and John Tempesta (White Zombie, Testament) to be a part of it because I knew they were both big fans as well and with no hesitation they said, 'We're in.'"

Wilson, too, was stoked by the opportunity to dust off some songs he hadn't played since his LA rock trio broke up in the early 2000's after releasing eight albums and playing as Henry Rollins' backing band. "I definitely didn't need any arm-twisting," he says. "I was totally flattered and thought it was a great idea. I figured it would be fun and it was a great opportunity for a new chapter to be established in order to move forward."

The recordings from those two days are what became to be known as MOTOR SISTER's Ride. The first single from those sessions, "This Song Reminds Me of You," is available for to stream, along with a featurette video on the formation of the band and the process behind the record, at metalblade.com/motorsister.

Ride will be released March 10th in North America on Metal Blade Records. Pre-orders for the album are available now at http://www.metalblade.com/motorsister.

In support of the project MOTOR SISTER played a show a in Brooklyn, NY earlier this month and have scheduled two special shows March 11th at The Whisky in Los Angeles and March 12th at DNA Lounge in San Francisco, CA.

Follow Motor Sister online:

https://www.facebook.com/motorsister

https://twitter.com/MotorSister

Follow the band members online:

https://twitter.com/scott_ian

https://twitter.com/pearladay

https://twitter.com/jimwilson45

https://twitter.com/joey_vera

https://www.facebook.com/JohnnyTempesta 

Act of Defiance (with Chris Broderick and Shawn Drover) sign with Metal Blade Records

New band featuring Chris Broderick, Shawn Drover, Henry Derek, and Matt Bachand

Upon exiting the ranks of Megadeth, the world eagerly awaited news as to what was next for Chris Broderick (guitars) and Shawn Drover (drums). The duo are now excited to announce their worldwide signing to Metal Blade Records for their new group ACT OF DEFIANCE, which is rounded out by Henry Derek (ex-Scar The Martyr) on vocals and Matt Bachand (Shadows Fall) on bass. They are currently recording their debut offering with world renowned producer Zeuss (Rob Zombie, Hatebreed, Shadows Fall). Look for this album to be released sometime this summer. However, in the meantime, click of the link below for a sneak peek into a rough demo snippet of the track "Throwback."

"Throwback" Song Snippet

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8uFI7cYN3I

Broderick states: "I am so excited to finally be able to announce ACT OF DEFIANCE to the world. Shawn just finished tracking drums the first week of February and his performance and tones are simply incredible. I have started tracking rhythms and leads, as well as working with Henry to get final vocal takes while Matt will record bass at his studio. The final mix and mastering will also be handled by Chris Harris.

"I am also very honored to announce that we have signed with Metal Blade Records. There is not a better label to be on than one where the employees (and owner) still understand and listen to METAL! They have shown a loyalty, backing and drive for their artists that few other labels have. As for our music, I am really enjoying the ability to create what is a killer mix of thrash and modern metal. It has a unique combination ranging from thrash to classical influences. I am very proud of what we have written and hope that you all dig it."

Drover adds: "Having our new band, ACT OF DEFIANCE, sign with Metal Blade Records is a real thrill for me. I started my musical career with Brian Slagel and the Metal Blade family many years ago, so to come full circle at this point is a real musical home-coming, of sorts. I couldn't be happier about that.

"What thrills me the most is the fact that myself, Chris Broderick, Henry Derek and Matt Bachand all have in common is that from the get-go, we wanted this band to be 100% PURE Heavy Metal! No compromises, no ulterior motives other than making the best HEAVY METAL music we can. Metal Blade shares this vision, which really puts us all on the same page, musically."

Bachand states: "I couldn't be more excited to begin this new adventure with ACT OF DEFIANCE. The positive energy that has collected between the four of us in such a little amount of time has been nothing short of incredible. Writing bass lines is something new for me as well, and I am looking forward to the challenge. All the songs are coming together great and I can't wait for the world to hear this."

Derek comments: "I'm extremely honored and excited to be a part of AOD. Everyone has been super cool and supportive, which is always a huge plus. I know this is going to be an awesome musical experience and the fact that I'm embarking on this journey with good people means everything. Cheers."

Brian Slagel further comments: "I am super excited to welcome ACT OF DEFIANCE to the Metal Blade family. I have known Chris and Shawn over the years and really admired their work. I am honored to be able to work with these two legendary musicians. Really excited to work with all the guys on this exciting new band!"

For all additional information visit facebook.com/actofdefiancemusic

Greek Heavy Metallers SACRAL RAGE Debut New Track at Stereogum.com

Stereogum.com has premiered "En Cima Del Ma," a new track from upcoming SACRAL RAGE album Illusions in Infinite Void. Stream it right here.

Illusions in Infinite Void, the full-length debut from Greek Heavy Metal Force SACRAL RAGE, will be released March 10 in North America on Cruz Del Sur Music

Illusions in Infinite Void is a monumental piece of Metal from start to finish. Indeed it's an ever-changing Metal vortex with countless rhythmic-changes and  no weak moments, a tense state of aggression in which singer Dimitri's excellent performance and the textured guitar lines stand out.  The band plays U.S. style metal with some European influences. Acts such as JAG PANZER, ANNIHILATOR, MERCYFUL FATE, JUDAS PRIEST, WATCHTOWER, and RUSH are major influences.  Lyrics about horror, supernatural, dark fantasy, soul searching, forbidden religions, perfectly match the band's  dark, aggressive, technical and paranoid music.

On Illusions in Infinite Void, the band proves to be more than just a mere replica of the most influential bands of  the Golden Age of (especially) U.S .Metal. Hand in hand with a granitic rhythmic session, their songs turn, change and evolve endlessly into a wide variety of riffs, screams and roars!  SACRAL RAGE have undoubtedly written one of the most inspired releases of 2015.  

1. Harbinger

2. En Cima Del Mal

3. Lost Chapter E.: Sutratma

4. Panic in Urals (Burning Skies)

5. Waltz in Madness

6. Into Mental East

7. Inner Sanctum Asylum

8. A Tyrannous Revolt

9. Lost Chapter E.: Amarna's Reign

"Astonishing riff-centric brilliance." - Stereogum.com

https://www.facebook.com/SacralRage

www.cruzdelsurmusic.com

Platinum Rock Radio Launches This Weekend

UK based Platinum Rock Radio roars to life this weekend with launch festivities scheduled for 12 noon UK time on Sunday. Why are we telling you this? Well one they have some very cool people on staff and some great programming but also because Focus on Metal will also be a part of the PRR family. FoM will be airing Tuesdays at 10 PM UK time.

http://platinumrockradio.com/

Doug Aldrich Talks About Revolution Saints on This Weeks Edition of Focus on Metal

Episode 222 - Revolution Saints

The new release from Revolution Saints drops this week and Doug Aldrich returns to the show this week to give us all the lowdown on it. Doug also gives us some insight into his decision to leave Whitesnake as well as an update on what's going on with Burning Rain and his hometown gig with Raiding The Rock Vault.

In keeping with the theme this week, track of the week is from Swedish melodic metallers Eclipse off "Armaggedonize" which was released via Frontiers this week.

Get social with Revolution Saints at https://www.facebook.com/RevolutionSaints or with Doug at https://www.facebook.com/DougAldrich.official

The official website for Doug is http://dougaldrich.com/

If you are heading to Vegas all the info for Raiding the Rock Vault is at http://www.raidingtherockvault.com/

Eclipse can be found online at http://www.eclipsemania.com/

Get the latest episode from the Focus on Metal Site, The Focus on Metal RSS feed, or on iTunes

Visit http://focusonmetal.net/ for information on all the past episodes and to find the links to all our other social media sites.

And as always Focus On Metal…Everything Else is Insignificant.

Bolt Thrower announces Overtures of War tour in Canada

Bolt Thrower are returning to Canada this summer. The band has posted the following update:

"Continuing down the path of revisiting places we haven't been to for a very long time, we're happy to announce that the next country on our list is Canada!

We'll be playing three shows:

June 19th - Amnesia Rockfest, Montebello, QC

June 20th – London Music Hall, London, ON

June 21st – Rickshaw Theatre, Vancouver, BC

Support bands for the two club shows will be announced soon. Check the venue websites for information regarding tickets.

Cheers,

BT"

A limited amount of Bolt Thrower vinyl is still available on the Metal Blade web shop - check out indiemerch.com/metalbladerecords to claim yours.

Follow the band on their only official website:

http://www.boltthrower.com 

Boston Death Thrashers LED TO THE GRAVE sign to Old School Metal Records / On Tour Now

Old School Metal Records is very excited to announce the addition of Boston Death Thrashers LED TO THE GRAVE to the roster.  LED TO THE GRAVE has been pummeling eardrums across the globe since 2006. They are fist-to-face thrash with blistering speed and mid tempo grooves.  The band is a classic example of what happens when you mix the ferocity of punk with the technically sound riffs of metal.

LED TO THE GRAVE is road-doggin' now with BUDD DWYER on LED TO THE BUDD SOUTHERN SMOKEOUT TOUR 2015.

2-23 Virginia Beach, VA @ The Hook Up

2-24 Raleigh, NC @ Chapel Hill Underground

2-25 Columbia, SC @ New Brookland Tavern

2-26 Jacksonville, FL @ Shantytown Pub

2-27 Orlando, FL @ Uncle Lou's

2-28 Miami, FL @ Black Sheep House

3-1 Tampa, FL @ Brass Mug

3-3 New Orleans, LA @ Siberia

3-4 Houston, TX @ Mangos

3-5 Harlingen, TX @ The Hop Shop

3-6 Austin, TX @ TBA

3-7 El Paso, TX @ Grynde Bar

3-8 Albuquerque, NM @ TBA

3- 9 Colorado Springs, CO @ The Flux Capacitor

3-11 Kansas City, MO @ The Sandbox

3-12 St Louis @ TBA

3-13 Louisville, KY @ Kaiju

3-14 Lexington, KY @ The Green Lantern

3-15 Dayton, OH  @ Blind Bobs

3-16 Detroit, MI @ Corktown

3-17 Columbus, OH @ Spacebar

3-18 Cleveland, OH @ Now That's Class

3-19 Pittsburgh, PA @ Rock Room

3-20 Binghampton, NY @ Fitzies Irish Pub

*3-21 New York, NY @ ABC No Rio

* No Budd Dwyer

www.osmrecords.net

https://www.facebook.com/ledtothegrave

 http://www.ledtothegrave.bandcamp.com/

DESECRATOR Supporting HIRAX on Thrash Metal Maniacs European Tour

Australia's DESECRATOR are joining the legendary HIRAX on its Thrash Metal Maniacs European Tour in March. Also on the bill are the UK's PAST TO FALL and Mexico's PIRANA.  Check out the promo video for the tour right here.

DESECRATOR recently released new single "Red Steel Nation," along with the video that can be viewed at this location. The video was written, produced, and directed by Robert Taylor of Phanterror Video, with cinematography by Taylor and Jeff Hann.

The single follows the band's critically acclaimed EP Down to Hell.  Stream and/or buy Down to Hell, as well as debut album Live til Death and more at http://desecrator.net/music/. Down to Hell is also available in digital format from iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, and Spotify.

Bred on an ideal that music should have power and fed on a hunger to bring back True Thrash Metal with intensity and ferocity,DESECRATOR  are one band that you simply must experience. With a sound that has been compared to early TESTAMENT, DEATH ANGEL and SACRED REICH,  DESECRATOR's twin guitar attack, punishing rhythm section and blood-soaked vocals have won over old guard thrashers and brought along a new generation of fans. Enthusiastic industry response powered DESECRATOR's meteoric ascent, while the band slayed audiences on stage in Australia alongside FORBIDDEN, WARBRINGER, MORTAL SIN, HOBB'S ANGEL OF DEATH, MACABRE, HAVOK and TOXIC HOLOCAUST. The band's first international tour through Southeast Asia served to further cement the band's reputation as a forced to be reckoned with in the live arena. 

http://desecrator.net/

https://www.facebook.com/DESECRATORAUS

https://twitter.com/desecratoraus

https://www.youtube.com/user/Desecratoraustralia

Night Demon are the featured guest on this week Focus on Metal

Episode 221 - Night Demon

Century Media artist Night Demon have just released a killer old school NWOBHM influenced disc entitled "Curse of The Damned". Richie was so psyched about the release that he went on a mission to get someone from the band on the show. The result is this weeks talk with bassist/vocalist Jarvis Leatherby. It's pretty apparent these guys live and breathe classic metal. We also engage in a quick discussion about the current state of AC/DC and give some thoughts about their latest release "In Rock We Trust".

Track of the week is another great one from our friends at Massacre Records. This week we feature a track off "The Judgement" the first release in thirteen years from German metal machine Scanner.

Get all your Night Demon info and merch at http://www.nightdemon.net/ and be sure to check out their awesome tour poster gallery while you're there. They are also on social media at https://www.facebook.com/nightdemonband

Check out the latest AC/DC news and all the world tour dates at http://www.acdc.com

Scanner can be found at http://www.scanner4u.de/ or https://www.facebook.com/Scanner.Heavy.Metal.Band

Get the latest episode from the Focus on Metal Site, The Focus on Metal RSS feed, or on iTunes

Visit http://focusonmetal.net/ for information on all the past episodes and to find the links to all our other social media sites.

And as always Focus On Metal…Everything Else is Insignificant.

NITROVOLT 'Dirty Wings' Cover Artwork Unveiled, Track Listing, Release Date

German speed rockers NITROVOLT will release their new album, “Dirty Wings” on March 20 via Mausoleum Records. With their third album, NITROVOLT is yet again about to take you on a bone-shaking high-speed mega-horse-powered turbo-charged rollercoaster ride.

Often favourably compared to such bands as the Texan outfit Speedealer, and even with the subtlety-free hard rocking Airbourne from Australia, NITROVOLT have toured all over Europe, often playing with the stylistically comparable Peter Pan Speed Rock from the Netherlands.

Track Listing:

01. NV

02. Takes Too Long

03. Dirty Wings

04. Hold On The Trace

05. Killer in Your Back

06. Zeke Saturday

07. Stuck

08. Target

09. Backfire

10. Lick It Up

11. Runnin’ The Race

12. The Wolf

13. Drugs

www.facebook.com/Nitrovolt

AXEMASTER Retrun With "Overture To Madness" March 6th via Pure Steel Records

The name AXEMASTER still might be familiar to many genre-lovers. In 1987 (“Blessing In The Skies”, Azra Records!) and 1990 (“Death Before Dishonor”), the Power Metal group from Ohio have released two very underrated, cult albums. After 25 years, the guys are back with “Overture To Madness”; released through Pure Steel Records. Old trademarks, known from the band for decades, also will be presented. Nevertheless, the band has arrived in the brave new world, but they still deliver their old passion without any compromises. On all twelve tracks partly aggressive, classical Metal is joining forces with a modern, bright, but also authentic production. Some Thrash influences and the rough, deeper vocals of the new, talented front man Geoff McGraw also fit perfect to the whole concept. AXEMASTER are lords of the American underground; and “Overture To Madness” shows it up perfectly!

1 Entering Madness  

2 Sanity's Requiem 

3 Forsaken 

4 Dream or Nightmare 

5 Thirty Pieces of Silver  

6 Crimson Haze  

7 Peeling Skin  

8 Sinister  

9 Statute of Liberty  

10 Ashes  

11 Chylde  

12 Dark Souls  

13 Epic  

Total Playing Time: 56:49

ASHES IN VEIN to Release Debut EP via Pavement Entertainment

Kansas-based metallers have recently inked a deal with Pavement Entertainment for the release of their debut EP. The self-titled four-track offering of fiery melodic metal will see worldwide digital release on Feb. 24.

ASHES IN VEIN will hit the road for a string of shows in February and March in support of the EP. Dates for the Spreading Ashes Tour are as follows:

2/27 - Hutchinson, KS @ The Rusty Needle

2/28 - Tulsa, OK @ Undercurrent

3/01 - Lawrence, KS @ The Jackpot

3/13 - Manhattan, KS @ Karnivore

3/20 - Merriam, KS @ Aftershock

Misery

Ashes In Vein

Fight

Until the End of Time

ASHES IN VEIN is a melodic metal band from Junction City, Kan., formed in 2008 before going on hiatus until 2012. The reincarnated line-up sees original members Tyler Peterson and James Swaim joined by Zach Howard, Jackson Hoyle and Andrew Calovich. After reforming, the band began work on what would become their self-titled, four-song EP, which was recorded at BulletRide Productions in Fowler, Kan. ASHES IN VEIN's music combines clean, guttural and melodic screaming vocals with soaring hard hitting guitar riffs in a melodic pool of blood and ashes. The EP will see worldwide digital release in February 2015 through Pavement Entertainment.

www.facebook.com/ashesinveinmetal

www.pavementmusic.com

Black Star Rider's Jimmy DeGrasso Returns on This Weeks Focus on Metal

Episode 220 - Focus on Black Star Riders

While almost every media outlet out there has been talking with either Ricky or Damon we've managed to score a talk once again with drummer extraordinaire Jimmy DeGrasso. Jimmy returns to Focus on Metal this week to talk about the upcoming Black Star Riders release "The Killer Instinct" which comes out Feb 24th. As always Jimmy brings us a wealth of stories and info on what's going on in the BSR camp as well as some insight on the upcoming tour. This chat was conducted on Jan 21st and we have fast tracked it into your waiting ears.

Get all your BSR info as well as tickets and tour dates at http://blackstarriders.com/ you can also contact them at https://www.facebook.com/BlackStarRidersOfficial

And be sure to order your own copy of "The Killer Instinct"

Get the latest episode from the Focus on Metal Site, The Focus on Metal RSS feed, or on iTunes

Visit http://focusonmetal.net/ for information on all the past episodes and to find the links to all our other social media sites.

And as always Focus On Metal…Everything Else is Insignificant.

Review - Judas Priest "Defenders of The Faith 30th Anniversary Edition" (Columbia/Legacy)

It's hard to believe that Judas Priest's classic "Defenders of The Faith" is thirty years old. It's amazing, thirty years since the Metallian became a part of the metal landscape. Not only that but a lot of the tracks from that album continue to be favorites of the faithful and fixtures of Priest's live set. With "Screaming for Vengeance" being such an insanely strong album these guys had a huge mountain to climb in regards to the followup for that album and Defenders delivered. To celebrate this thirty year milestone on March 10th Columbia/Legacy will be releasing a three CD expanded version including the original disc completely remastered by Tom Allom.

Although the release isn't out until March 10th Columbia/Legacy kindly allowed Focus on Metal to have a preview of the upcoming release and here's the lowdown. Thankfully Tom didn't do anything in the remaster that bows down at the altar of modern recording. There's no massive increase in Ian's bass and the drums have not been kicked up to Slayer levels. The focus remains exactly where the focus on the original mix was set. Tom was the original producer of Defenders and he clearly knows he got it right the first time. I do hear small tweaks though. Rob's vocals now have a bit more reverb/chorusing on them. I'm not sure the average person would realize it and that's the beauty of what Tom has done here. Of course when you are reviewing a release you tend to really listen to everything so you do pick up the small stuff. There's also a lot more mid presence on the remaster. Priest has always been a metal band that not afraid to embrace the middle of the EQ curve and what Tom has done here in that regard makes it all sound fresh and powerful. As far as the remaster is concerned I'll give it a solid 10 out of 10. Definitely feels like putting on a comfortable guitar and discovering it still has some great riffs in it.

1.   Freewheel Burning

2.   Jawbreaker

3.   Rock Hard Ride Free

4.   The Sentinel

5.   Love Bites

6.   Eat Me Alive

7.   Some Heads Are Gonna Roll

8.   Night Comes Down

9.   Heavy Duty

10. Defenders of the Faith

Discs two and three are a live recording from the Long Beach Arena, May 5th 1984. This date was very far into the tour for Defenders which kicked off in Demnmark on January 20th (following a mini tour of the UK in December). Priest played two nights in Long Beach and this show is from the second night. For metal heads that have come up in the last ten years the most amazing thing tho point out about this live set is that Priest played eight of the ten tracks from the new disc. With the exception of Maiden that's almost unheard of  from a veteran band. In fact the only track they didn't play on the tour at all was Eat Me Alive. These guys could go out and play this set as is today and I'm sure most Priest fans would come away extremely happy. I've long had a bootleg version of this show and i have to say that the quality on this release is far above what I've heard previously. This may become THE Priest live album. I think they could easily just release this on its own andPriest fans would buy it.

CD2 Live at Long Beach Arena, California 5^th May 1984 

1.   Love Bites

2.   Jawbreaker

3.   Grinder

4.   Metal Gods

5.   Breaking the Law

6.   Sinner

7.   Desert Plains

8.   Some Heads Are Gonna Roll

9.   The Sentinel 

10. Rock Hard Ride Free

CD3 Live at Long Beach Arena, California 5^th May 1984 

1.   Night Comes Down

2.  The Hellion

3.   Electric Eye

4.   Heavy Duty

5.   Defenders of the Faith

6.   Freewheel Burning 

7.   Victim of Changes

8.   The Green Manalishi (With the Two-Pronged Crown)

9.   Living After Midnight

10. Hell Bent For Leather

11. You’ve Got Another Thing Coming

So audio wise this thing is a steal for the price they are charging. Having recently spent thirty dollars for a remaster/special edition of an album who's first word is Love and second word is Gun I feel pretty good about saying that this is far and above the real value for your metal dollar. Twenty bucks for three incredible discs of classic Priest audio. I should also mention that I have only been able to listen to the digital version of this so far.I'm quite sure that when my pre-ordered physical copy rolls in I'm going to be an even happier camper.

Since I've only had access to the digital copy I haven't been able to see all the packaging but I will say that the cover treatment looks great as you can see above. I expect the rest of the package will also be damn cool.

So clearly what are you waiting for? Order up your own copy of the deluxe expanded version of Defenders of The Faith and bask in the audio glory that is classic Priest.

Who can forget the immortal words inscribed on the back of the original release, "Rising from darkness where Hell hath no mercy and the screams for vengeance echo on forever. Only those who keep the faith shall escape the wrath of the Metallian... Master of all metal."

This package easily gets two horns up and a total 10 out of 10. Priest remain as always, Master of all metal.

http://judaspriest.com/

https://twitter.com/judaspriest

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialJudasPriest

Shawn James & The Shapeshifters Launch Kickstarter Campaign for Upcoming Album

Fayetteville, AR's SHAWN JAMES & THE SHAPESHIFTERS have launched a Kickstarter campaign in support of upcoming album The Gospel According to Shawn James & The Shapeshifters. Please pledge your support by visiting https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/shawnjamesmusic/the-gospel-according-to-shawn-james-and-the-shapes

SHAWN JAMES & THE SHAPESHIFTERS  have been wowing fans with their swamp-born, high energy rock 'n roll since releasing The Wolf in early 2013. The debut was the first in a trilogy and was followed by The Bear (June 2013) and The Hawk (January 2014). A righteously rockin' album of cover songs recorded live, aptly titled The Covers, was released in May 2014. Quickly establishing themselves with an impressive body of work and a reputation as a formidable live act with 260 dates in the U.S. and Europe already under their collective belt, SHAWN JAMES & THE SHAPESHIFTERS are poised to take the world by storm with The Gospel According to Shawn James. The band has just entered Insomiac Studios with engineer Adam Putman to record what promises to be its hardest hitting material yet. Tentatively set for an April release and featuring cover art by Polish artist Karol Bak, The Gospel According to Shawn James & The Shapeshifters is just what the doctor ordered. Show your support and help the guys kick the rock world right in the ass!

SHAWN JAMES & THE SHAPESHIFTERS are a 5-piece rock band from Fayetteville, Arkansas. At first glimpse, you might confuse them with a bluegrass or metal band. Influenced by every type of music, and growing up in several heavy and folky bands, the sound is not what you would expect. With a different vibe for every EP released so far, they truly embody the phrase "shapeshifters." For lack of any term whatsoever, upcoming album The Gospel According to Shawn James and the Shapeshifters could be described simply as "rock and roar." At times, it evokes both Son House and SunO)))), with haunting fiddle and plucking banjo amidst swampy, fuzz driven slide guitars. Other parts are like a fog rising from a cave, while others come crashing like a thunderstorm. Come 'n get it!

http://www.shawnjamesmusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJamesSoul https://twitter.com/ShawnJamesMusic

Artillery announces United Legions Tour 2015

Denmark thrash metal veterans will return to US in April! The tour will also feature Striker and VX36 and begins on April 9th. The tour will weave its way through the US before wrapping up on April 27 in Salt Lake City, UT. For updates and info, follow Artillery on facebook at facebook.com/ARTILLERY.DK.

Artillery comments: "It's with a great pleasure that Artillery are returning to the United States. This time as a head liner for the United Legions Tour, together With Striker And VX36. We can wait to play songs from Legions together with our old songs as Terror Squad, Khomaniac and the Almighty. Come and join the Legions!"

ARTILLERY

Tour w/ Striker, VX36

04/09 San Jose, CA Rock Bar Theatre

04/10 Los Angeles, CA Five Star Bar

04/11 Prescott, AZ The Drunken Lass

04/12 Midland, TX Blue Max

04/13 Deep Ellum, TX The Three Links

04/14 Austin, TX The Dirty Dog Bar

04/15 Houston, TX Walter's

04/16 New Orleans, LA Siberia

04/17 Orlando, FL West End Live

04/19 Tampa, FL The Brass Mug

04/21 Raleigh, NC The Pour House Music Hall

04/22 Birmingham, AL The Syndicate Venue

04/23 Tupelo, MS Good Time Charlie's

04/24 Cudahy, WI The Metal Grille RK NYDM Spring Bash '15

04/25 Des Moines, IA Vaudeville Mews

04/26 Denver, CO Bushwacker's Saloon

04/27 Salt Lake City, UT The Metro Bar

Artillery are one of Europe's earliest and most important exponents of thrash metal, and the band's contribution to the bourgeoning genre is difficult to ignore. The Danish quartet successfully managed to fuse an abrasive brutality with technicality and strong melodies, with the noteworthy guitar leads of the Stützer-brothers serving as highlights. Listen to music and watch videos from "Legions" now at metalblade.com/artillery.

Artillery was formed in the Copenhagen suburb of Taastrup, Denmark in 1982 by Michael and Morten Stützer. Since then Artillery have gone thru numerous line-up changes and released six studio longplayers. The first period of Artillery's existence gave the World the three classic albums Fear of Tomorrow, Terror Squad and By Inheritance featuring some of the finest moments of Thrash Metal Europe has ever put out.

"Artillery are doing what they were surely born to do, namely hurling impressively intricate, ridiculously tight thrash anthems from every direction, they are still unstoppable." Terrorizer Magazine

"one of the best thrash metal albums this year" Iron Fist Magazine

"The songwriting talent on display is formidable, and all the instruments turn potentially routine passages into extra appendages that work always in the band's favor." MetalSucks.net

"…this new album proves that they're still fighting on, with no end to the war for thrash metal in sight." NewNoiseMagazine.com

http://artillery.dk

https://www.facebook.com/ARTILLERY.DK 

UK rockers FURYON will release their second album via Dream Records in the UK and EUROPE

UK rockers FURYON will release their second album, 'Lost Salvation,' on February 23, via Dream Records in the UK and EUROPE.   What is to be expected is more explosive guitar riffs and solos in well-crafted song form, plus expressive vocal delivery and melodies to scream along to.  A possibly darker album, but still with progressive elements and a grungy edge.  US/CANADA/JAPAN release dates to follow. 'Lost Salvation' was recorded in Atlanta, US, and Brighton, UK, and mixed and produced by Rick Beato (Shinedown, Fozzy) & Ken ëGLí Lanyon.  The album artwork was designed by Matthew Vickerstaff of Darkwave Art & Design (Textures, Pentagram, Bloodbath, etc.). Video for the first single 'These Four Walls’ here: http://youtu.be/TbLwSS4BkWI Confirmed 'Lost Salvation' track listing: 01. All That I Have 02. Lost Salvation 03. These Four Walls (official video) 04. Scapegoat 05. Resurrect Me 06. Left It With The Gods 07. Good Sky 08. Dematerialize 09. What You Need 10. Wiseman Singer Matt Mitchell also explained the stories behind several of the album's standout tracks: 'These Four Walls' (first single) "A view from ones mind. An almost trapped inside feeling. A view looking out from the room within where life long stories are written on the walls. " 'All That I Have'  "A tale of a person who has been living in a destructive relationship. Knowing they should leave but not wanting to. Eventually taking the plunge an leaving but sacrificing everything but a few personal items." 'Scapegoat' "A song with a look at life beyond the life we know. Feeling there is more to life and the possibilities of afterlife. Having faith and or spiritual view. Also society's blind faith." 'Lost Salvation' "Relationship between a band and the music business and also the relationships between one another within the band of people, forging their way through these corridors.  Feeling they may have lost their hope and given their all, but still holding on with that glimmer of love." First reviews: Furyon have come along way since 'Gravitas,' 'Lost Salvation' is not only remarkable, it's herculean! I hope 'Lost Salvation' sees the band reach the zenith they so richly deserve! Score: 9.5/10 (The Metal Gods Meltdown) Is all killer & no filler. This is already a contender for album of the year. If this record isn't the making of FURYON then there is some sort of conspiracy theory in place. I heartily recommend seeing this band live. Ratings 9/10 (My Global Mind) Verdict time now and I had a feeling that I would enjoy this new album from FURYON and my feeling was right as itís just as good as their amazing debut if not better!  Highly recommended if you like Hard Rock and Melodic Heavy Metal music. Almost perfect: 9/10 (Metal Temple) This new track is a monstrous modern melodic heavy rock stuff that features a massive riffing and Matt Mitchell's superb vocal performances.  For sure, this is a great appetizer of what is to expect from FURYON's brand new work. Well done. Rating : 8.5/10 (Heavy Paradise) FURYON have confirmed dates for a UK headlining tour in March 2015, in support of their second album release 'Lost Salvation'. The dates are as follows: March 20 – The Square, Harlow, UK March 22 – The Concorde 2, Brighton, UK March 24 – The Audio, Glasgow, UK March 29 – The Barfly, London, UK March 30 – Bannerman’s Live, Edinburgh, UK April 4th –   Rebellion Manchester, UK more dates t.b.a. For further information, please visit: www.furyon.net www.facebook.com/FuryonUK www.dream-records.com

BLACKWELDER Announce New Album Title, Release Date

International power prog metal band BLACKWELDER have announced “Survival Of The Fittest” as the title of their upcoming debut album, due to be released on April 24, 2015 via German label GoldenCore Records/ZYX Music.

Hailing from the four corners of the world, BLACKWELDER is a brand new metal experience featuring some of the top names in Power Prog Metal today. Arguably the best singer in all of metal, Ralf Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-GAMMA RAY) fronts this extraordinary outfit at the top of his game, alongside guitar virtuoso Andrew Szus (SEVEN SERAPHIM). Bjorn Englen (DIO DISCIPLES, ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN) and Aquiles Priester (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-ANGRA) round out this unstoppable team of what quite possibly could be one of the greatest lineups metal has ever seen.

The pre-mix of the song 'The Night Of New Moon' can be streamed here: https://soundcloud.com/blackwelder/blackwelder-the-night-of-new-moon

The new album was mixed by Matt Smith (THEOCRACY), mastered by Anfinn Skulevold (ABHOTH, ACCESS HOLLYWOOD) and Artwork by Mario Bouffier (IGGY POP, SACRED REICH).

BLACKWELDER is:

Ralf Scheepers – Vocals (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-GAMMA RAY)
Andrew Szucs – Guitars (SEVEN SERAPHIM)
Bjorn Englen – Bass (DIO DISCIPLES, ex-YNGWIE MALMSTEEN)
Aquiles Priester – Drums (PRIMAL FEAR, ex-ANGRA)

BLACKWELDER is a winning formula of raw musical virtuosity that holds the listener’s ears right from the start. This act is surely not one to be missed and cannot be denied.

www.facebook.com/BlackwelderMetal