Online now - Joe Holmes Guests on This Weeks Installment of Focus on Metal

Episode 231 - Joe Holmes

In the the last few years we've seen several great artists return to active duty after being away for several years (sometimes decades) and this week we have one of em', guitarist Joe Holmes. Joe has been out of the music biz for quite a while but he's made a strong comeback with his new band Farmikos. On this weeks show we'll talk to Joe about the genesis of Farmikos and their self titled release as well as his past history with Ozzy and David Lee Roth. 

Go to http://www.farmikos.com/ to find out more about what Joe is up to these days.

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

You can hear us every Wednesday on these great stations:
Pure Rock Radio, Metal World Radio, Audio Graffiti

You can hear us Thursdays on Platinum Rock Radio

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.

Armored Saint to perform headlining Las Vegas show

Limited pre-order deluxe bundle imports available

Los Angeles, California's Armored Saint are set to release their seventh studio album this summer. The album, Win Hands Down, is all things Armored, a vintage crush of classic power propelled by a cathartic blast of life in the year 2015. The album is scheduled for release on June 2nd in North America, with release dates for June 1st in Europe/UK, and May 29th in DE/CH/AT. A limited number of European deluxe box set bundles have been imported for North American fans. Those bundles can be ordered now at metalblade.com/armoredsaint. While there, check out the brand new music video for the title track from Win Hands Down, then watch the newly released behind the scenes HERE.

ARMORED SAINT are also proud to be joining the legendary Saxon for a few select, high profile shows across the country from May 12th through May 30th. The group will also only be performing one, very special headlining date in the US this year and it's in Las Vegas at Count's Vamp'd Rock Bar and Grill on July 11th, so don't miss out if you are in the area. Either see below or head over to facebook.com/thearmoredsaint for all tour dates and additional information.

ARMORED SAINT is frontman John Bush and bassist Joey Vera, guitarist Phil Sandoval and his brother, drummer Gonzo Sandoval and guitarist Jeff Duncan - five masters of metal that combine to forge one of the genre's most criminally-unsung forces.

**Limited Edition Import**

CD Track Listing

01. Win Hands Down

02. Mess

03. An Exercise in Debauchery

04. Muscle Memory

05. That Was Then, Way Back When

06. With a Full Head of Steam

07. In an Instant

08. Dive

09. Up Yours

10. Dive (Deep Remix) - Bonus Track

DVD Contents

01. Keep It True VII Festival (2009)

02. Win Hands Down (Production Video)

03. The Making of "Win Hands Down"

04. Left Hook from Right Field (Production Video)

BOX SET INCLUDES:

+ "Win Hands Down" Deluxe Edition CD/DVD Digibook

+ Armored Saint Playing Cards

+ Custom Poker Dollars

+ Armored Saint Game Board 2-Sided Poster

ARMORED SAINT

Tour with Saxon

05/12 New York, NY BB Kings

05/13 Worcester, MA The Palladium

05/23 San Antonio, TX 210 Kapone's Live

05/24 Dallas, TX Gas Monkey Live

05/29 San Jose, CA Rockbar

05/30 Los Angeles, CA House of Blues

End Tour

06/19 Clisson, FR Hellfest

07/11 Las Vegas, NV Counts' Vamp'd Rock Bar and Grill

07/30 Wacken, DE Wacken Open Air

08/02 Munich, DE Free & Easy Festival

08/03 Amsterdam, NL Melkweg w/ Queensryche

08/04 Eindhoven, NL Effenaar w/ Queensryche

08/06 London, GB Electric Ballroom w/ Queensryche

08/07 Derby, GB Bloodstock Festival

08/08 Kortrijk, BE Alcatraz Festival

12/04 Hamburg, DE Waterkant X-Mas Bash

12/05 Oberhausen, DE Ruhrpott Metal Meeting

https://www.facebook.com/thearmoredsaint

https://twitter.com/thearmoredsaint 

Exorcism Unveil 'World In Sin' EP Details, Cover, Tracklist, Release Date

EXORCISM will release their new EP, ‘World In Sin‘ on June 1, 2015, via Dream Records on CD and digital formats. The limited edition EP of 666 copies will be made exclusively available through the band’s website. The album artwork made by ‘Gragoth‘ can be viewed below.

The EP was produced, mixed and mastered by Zvekan with the help of Dominus at Total Master Sound in Spain. All lyrics melodies and music by Csaba Zvekan for Corvus Publishing.

Track listing:

1. World in Sin
2. Black Day in Paradise
3. Virtual Freedom
4. Sahara
5. Black Star

‘World In Sin‘ can be pre-ordered here: www.exorcism13.com/exorcism-world-in-sin-limited-edition-ep

Exorcism is:

Csaba Zvekan – Vocals, Rhythm Guitars, Bass, Keyboards

Gear: VGS Guitars, Gibson Custom Guitars, Elixir Strings, EMS Pick Ups, Audio Technica, Warwick Bass, Dunlop Effects, Laney, Mesa Boogie, Randall.

Recording musicians:

Andy Drake – Rhythm Guitars (1, 2), Additional Guitars (5)
Joe Stump – Lead Guitars (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), Rhythm Guitars (3, 4, 5)
Biggie P. Phanrath – Lead Guitar
Logan Christopher – Bass (1, 2)
Mirkko DeMaio – Drums (1, 2)
Alex Wind – Keyboards (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
Maestro Mistheria – Keytar Solo (4)
Lucio Manca – Bass (3, 4, 5)
Garry King – Drums (3, 4, 5)
Dominus – Spoken Word (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

EXORCISM continuing the path and legacy of bands like BLACK SABBATH, DIO while EXORCISM is taking a more modern approach. With a groovy rhythm and bass section added with spherical pads and the signature vertigo guitar riffs down we go the underworld. On top of it hovering is always CSABA ZVEKAN‘s phenomenal work on vocals that have been nominated numerous time with the debut album “I Am God” for “the best record” last year.

GET READY FOR THE SECOND ROUND OF EXORCISM MONSTER STORIES!

www.exorcism13.com
www.facebook.com/exorcismband

RACER X, MSG, DEATH DEALER members unveil new shred band BLASTED TO STATIC.

Brace yourself for a vicious onslaught of shredding rock unlike anything you've heard in a long time. More explosive than a hailstorm of hand grenades, BLASTED TO STATIC delivers a cutting-edge offering that is both refreshingly new, and re-imagines the hallmarks of 80’s guitar histrionics as a sonic hurricane that will blow the roof off 2015.

Headed up by the incendiary vocals of Jeff Martin (Racer X, Badlands, Leatherwolf, Surgical Steel) and fret-melting wizardry of Stu Marshall (Death Dealer, Empires of Eden, Ex-Dungeon), with the rhythmic talents of Rev Jones (Steelheart, MSG, Black Symphony) on bass and session demigod Clay T on drums, Blasted to Static represents an uncompromising and intense odyssey from veterans of the metal scene.

But for all the high-octane, hook-laden riffing mayhem, the band’s versatility also encompasses acoustic elements and more subtle, understated interludes. “We’re embracing an organic approach with this band,” says guitarist Stu Marshall. “Don’t expect music from a single genre, Blasted to Static is all about full artistic freedom, so you might even hear echoes of Black Sabbath or Queen.”

Recording is already well underway for the currently untitled debut album, and concert dates for late 2015/early 2016 are in the planning stages.

Dangerous, unstoppable and impossible to predict, this savage yet focused shock-and-awe campaign will make any jaded metal fan sit the fuck up and take notice.

Shaking off the tired, formulaic monotony that many of us have become accustomed to, Blasted to Static blazes ahead into a golden future of guitar ripping rock.

For the latest band news, visit their official Facebook page:

Blasted to Static Facebook page

DIAMOND LANE and DELTA ROSE announce "Swingin Heavy" US tour.

Los Angeles, California up and coming hard rock bands DIAMOND LANE and DELTA ROSE have announced their joint "Swingin Heavy" US tour.

Both bands will be bringing their incendiary music and live shows to venues throughout the Southwest United States during the month of May 2015.

Diamond Lane lead vocalist Brandon Baumann has checked in with the following update:

"We're beyond thrilled to take a break from the studio to hit the road with our brothers in Delta Rose. There's nothing sweeter than taking two heavy hitters and introducing them to new audiences around the country. We have great shows in store and are blessed with the opportunity to not only earn new fans and family members, but bring the party with us wherever we go! And being able to throw down at the massive event that is Rocklahoma is a true treat! We'll be swingin' heavy and keeping the torch burning bright all across the Unites States --- let there be rock!"

Diamond Lane will be on the road promoting their critically acclaimed independently released 3rd album "Terrorizer", while Delta Rose will be supporting their debut album "Golden".

Diamond Lane - "The Enemy" video

For the latest band news, visit their official websites and Facebook pages:

Diamond Lane official website

Diamond Lane Facebook page

Delta Rose official website

Delta Rose Facebook page

Edge Of Paradise to Release “Immortal Waltz” on May 22nd Vis Pure Steel Records

"Immortal Waltz" will be released on CD and as digital download on 22nd May 2015. Margarita from the band EDGE OF PARADISE is for sure one of the prettiest girls in Hard Rock and Heavy Metal music around, but in this case this will not describe all about the band. The US-American band EDGE OF PARADISE plays melodic Heavy Metal in the best way and with perfectly catchy hooks and melody lines. There are always powerful parts in the music to keep it away from AOR and Hard Rock. So it's outstanding powerful Metal on the highest professional level. Beside the successful Debut album some video clips were done showing the convincing style and power in their music! After their big success in the USA, now it's time for a worldwide release from their new album. So EDGE OF PARADISE and the masterpiece "Immortal Waltz", recorded by the famous Michael Wagener should be the "big thing" for the band and another triumph for the label Pure Steel Records! TRACKLISTING 1. Perfect Shade of Black 2. It’s My Showtime 3. Immortal Waltz 4. In A Dream 5. Rise For The Fallen 6. Ghost 7. Break Away 8. Goodbye 9. Children of the Sea Total Playing: 40:41 min LINE-UP Margarita Monet – vocals Dave Bates – guitars John Chominsky – drums Nick Ericson – bass www.edgeofparadiseband.com www.facebook.com/EdgeOfParadiseBand www.twitter.com/edgeofparadise1 www.reverbnation.com/edgeofparadiseband www.oninstagram.com/edgeofparadise

SAVAGE MESSIAH to headline Hard Rock & Metal Coalition at Great Escape festival

London metallers SAVAGE MESSIAH have been confirmed as headliners for the "Hard Rock & Metal Coalition" at The Great Escape festival 2015.

Presented by AIM and Team Rock, the Hard Rock & Metal Coalition will showcase some of the UK independent sector's finest heavy bands.  The gig takes place at Volks Bar in Brighton on Friday, 15th May, and features UK bands ELEGIES, THE COLOUR LINE, PRESS TO MECO, ACODA, and headliners SAVAGE MESSIAH.  Entry is free for everyone with a TGE wristband.

SAVAGE MESSIAH frontman Dave Silver comments:

"We're looking forward to putting some much needed metal into The Great Escape festival this May down in Brighton!  It was super cool to be invited to headline the Hard Rock & Metal Coalition by the folks over at AIM.  Also a big thanks to our friends over at Team Rock for putting their name to it.  We've had a few killer shows in Brighton over the last 2 years, so make sure you turn out and raise a glass to UK heavy metal with us!"

For tickets and more information about The Great Escape festival, go to http://greatescapefestival.com

Don't miss SAVAGE MESSIAH live at the following shows:

May 15 - Brighton, UK - The Great Escape, Volks Bar
Jul. 17 - Tachov, Czech Republic - Tarock Open Air

SAVAGE MESSIAH's latest album, THE FATEFUL DARK, is out now on CD and vinyl in Europe at http://webstore.earache.com/savage-messiah

The album is also available now on iTunes at http://bit.ly/fatefuldarkitunes

Watch SAVAGE MESSIAH's music video for the track "Hellblazer", featuring famed London contortionist Pixie Le Knot (Game of Thrones, The Devil Inside), at http://youtu.be/qMLgbl7yU98

Get more SAVAGE MESSIAH news and info:

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/SavageMessiahMetal
Twitter - http://twitter.com/savagemessiah

The ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL Announces Official 2015 Artist Line-Up

SLAYER, King Diamond, HELLYEAH, The Devil Wears Prada, Whitechapel, Thy Art Is Murder, Jungle Rot, Sister Sin, Sworn In, Shattered Sun, Feed Her To The Sharks, Code Orange, Kissing Candice

Tickets Went On Sale Friday April 17, 2015 at 10:00am Local Time

Check Out the Exclusive Lineup Announcement via Rolling Stone

The world's biggest heavy music touring festival, the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL enters its eighth year with another fantastic heavy metal and hard rock line-up, featuring 13 bands performing on the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAIN STAGE and the VICTORY RECORDS STAGE.

The ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAIN STAGE will feature some of the most ground-breaking heavy bands of all time, spanning the originating years of heavy metal to today! The main stage will feature five-time-nominated, two-time Grammy winning legends Slayer as headliner, as well as additional performances from King Diamond, HELLYEAH, and The Devil Wears Prada. The VICTORY RECORDS STAGE will feature headliner Whitechapel as well as Thy Art Is Murder, Jungle Rot, Sister Sin, Sworn In, Shattered Sun, Feed Her To The Sharks, Code Orange and Kissing Candice.

Kerry King, guitarist of ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAIN STAGE headliners Slayer states, "I don't know if third time will be a charm, but it will definitely be hellish! Slayer and King Diamond on stage for the first time together in the States- NEVER has Mayhem been more evil. DON'T FUCKIN' MISS IT."

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAIN STAGE performer and heavy metal hellion King Diamond states, "This is going to be one hot and hellish summer! Slayer and King Diamond on the same stage - it does not get more devilish than this! We will be putting on a one hour set with the full King Diamond stage production. As for a set list, I'm not gonna reveal that here, but it will be built around "Dreams of Horror". The Puppet Master will be there with Grandma, and we will even go as far back in time as to 1777 (hint). You're all in for one hell of a show if you come to this Sabbath!"

"It has been eight years and it feels like it started just yesterday. We are so excited about this year's lineup and having the mighty Slayer back in support of a new album. In addition, the first time for King Diamond and HELLYEAH will be awesome, as well as The Devil Wears Prada's first time on the Main Stage. The Victory Stage has amazing bands and will play throughout the day. Heavy music is thriving in America and we are excited to be a part of it," state John Reese and Kevin Lyman, ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL producers.

Read the RollingStone.com Exclusive Line-Up Announcement with a Special Video from Headliners Slayer HERE

Watch the Official 2015 ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL Sizzle Reel HERE

Tickets for the ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL go on sale beginning April 17th at 10:00am local time. Please note - Houston, TX tickets go on sale on April 24th at 10:00am local time. General Admission Festival and Lawn Tickets are only $19.99 including all fees for the first 72 hours of onsale (while supplies last).

The festival will kick off on June 26th at Sleep Train Amphitheater in San Diego, CA and ends at Gexa Energy Amphitheater in Dallas, TX on August 2nd. See below for all confirmed tour dates.

2015 ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL:

6/26 - San Diego, CA @ Sleep Train Amphitheater

6/27 - San Bernardino, CA @ San Manuel Amphitheater

6/28 - Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheater

6/30 - Auburn, WA (Seattle) @ White River Amphitheater

7/1 - Boise, ID @ Idaho Center Amphitheater

7/3 - Phoenix, AZ @ Ak-Chin Amphitheater

7/4 - Albuquerque, NM @ Isleta Amphitheater

7/5 - Denver, CO @ Red Rocks

7/7 - Council Bluffs, IA @ Harrah's Council Bluffs

7/8 - Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom

7/10 - Noblesville, IN (Indianapolis) @ Kilpsch Amphitheater

7/11 - Clarkston, MI (Detroit) @ DTE Energy Amphitheater

7/12 - Tinley Park, IL (Chicago) @ First Midwest Bank Amphitheater

7/15 - Toronto, ON @ Molson Canadian Amphitheatre

7/17 - Camden, NJ (Philadelphia) @ Susquehanna Bank Arts Center

7/18 - Burgettstown, PA (Pittsburgh) @ First Niagara Pavilion

7/19 - Hartford, CT @ Xfinity Theatre

7/21 - Holmdel, NJ @ PNC Bank Arts Center

7/22 - Gilford, NH @ Meadowbrook (Bank of NH Pavilion)

7/24 - Bristow, VA @ Jiffy Lube Live

7/25 - Boston, MA @ Xfinity Center

7/26 - Wantagh, NY @ Nikon at Jones Beach

7/29 - Atlanta, GA @ Aaron's Amphitheater at Lakewood

7/31 - San Antonio, TX @ Whitewater Amphitheatre

8/1 - Houston, TX @ Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

8/2 - Dallas, TX @ Gexa Energy Amphitheater

* Lineups in each city may vary. Go to www.rockstarmayhemfest.com for full lineup details.

Meet This Year's ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL Bands!

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAIN STAGE:

Slayer

The Chicago Tribune's Greg Kot wrote that the five-time-nominated, two-time Grammy winning Slayer is "one of the great American rock bands of the last 30 years, forget about genre." Their membership in "The Big Four" - Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax - the four bands that defined the thrash/metal genre - secures their place in music history. Indeed, few bands come close to matching the intensity that Slayer brings to its live shows, having been named "Best Live Band" by numerous media outlets including Revolver, SPIN, and Metal Hammer. With songs that mirror the turmoil and aberrations of our society - God's terrifying global genocide, the chaos of our broken political system, chemical warfare, the hideous minds of serial killers, and the way-too-close proximity of world horrors that technology has brought us, Slayer remains crushing and brutal, steadfastly refusing to cater to the Mainstream. Slayer's founding member, guitarist Jeff Hanneman passed in 2013, and Exodus guitarist Gary Holt has been filling in since. Paul Bostaph, who was Slayer's drummer from '94 - '01, has rejoined bassist/vocalist Tom Araya and guitarist Kerry King, and is back behind the kit. Slayer is currently in the studio recording a new album set for a 2015 release.

King Diamond

King Diamond's Dreams of Horror double album was released in November of 2014 and is the only best-of compiled and approved by the band. The tracks were remastered and enhanced by Andy LaRocque and King Diamond himself. Give Me Your Soul…Please, King Diamond's 2007 full-length, was nominated for a "best metal performance" Grammy Award!

HELLYEAH

HELLYEAH is comprised of Chad Gray (Mudvayne), Vinnie Paul (Pantera, Damageplan), Tom Maxwell (Nothingface), Kyle Sanders (Bloodsimple) and Christian Brady (Magna-Fi). Their current album, BLOOD FOR BLOOD, is a welcome return to form. It leaves a mark, thanks to songs like the angular, vengeful "DMF," a song birthed by the sort of anger that can't be faked; it will leave you wondering who pissed these guys off. "Gift" is dirty, rowdy rock with equal parts groove and swagger, but also possessed of the sort of punk rock energy that would make Motorhead fans turns their heads. Then there is moodier, more contemplative fare like " Moth" and "Hush" which connect on an emotional, cellular level, proving that you can be incredibly heavy in ways other than loud and fast. "Hush" is taking Rock radio by storm - among the most-added records in each of its first 3 weeks at theformat. The video for the track debuts upon this tour announce - see it at www.hellyeahband.com

The Devil Wears Prada

The Devil Wears Prada recently announced their return to Rise Records and their next release, a conceptual EP entitled Space, coming in summer 2015. The Space EP marks the band's first concept release since Zombie and the first on Rise Records since their sophomore release, Plagues, in 2007. Zombie debuted at #11 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Charts in the summer of 2010. The band is currently headlining the "Zombie 5 Tour" to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the acclaimed EP.

VICTORY RECORDS STAGE:

Whitechapel

Whitechapel's Our Endless War was released in April of 2014 and it debuted at a staggering #10 on the Billboard Top 200 charts, as well as #1 on both the iTunes rock and metal charts. Watch Whitechapel's latest video, the intense and bloody Mitch Massie-directed "Let Me Burn", now HERE.

Thy Art Is Murder

Australia's incendiary extreme musical export Thy Art is Murder, return with one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Produced and mixed by Will Putney (Suicide Silence, Exhumed, The Acacia Strain), Holy War is the band's second release for Nuclear Blast Entertainment and third full-length album overall. Holy War will be available in various formats (digital; limited digi-pak + bonus track; assorted color vinyl; exclusive mail-order picture disc) and unleashed in North America on June 30th, in Europe & Australia on June 26th, and in the U.K. on June 29th.

Jungle Rot

American death-metal band, Jungle Rot, has been providing the masses with headbang-worthy anthems since their formation in 1994, with recent notable touring including runs with Suffocation, Kataklysm, and a killer performance on the 70,000 Tons Of Metal Festival Cruise 2015. Fans can expect a new Jungle Rot album this June, just in time for the Mayhem to begin.

Sister Sin

Lead by one of Revolver Magazine's Hottest Chicks of 2015, Liv Jagrell, Swedish heavy-metal band Sister Sin have been riding high since the release of their October 2014 album, Black Lotus. Currently wrapping up a hugely successful, high-voltage tour with UDO in Europe, the no-nonsense four-piece is ready to take over the States once more, delivering a real dose of rock 'n roll to the masses.

Sworn In

Chicago's Sworn In just released their second album, the conceptual The Lovers/The Devil, this past Tuesday April 7th while on the road for their first-ever headline tour.

Shattered Sun

Poised to dominate the metal scene comes Texas melodic metal six-piece, Shattered Sun, with their Victory Records debut album, Hope Within Hatred (out April 21st). Currently crushing venues across the US as direct support to Testament and Exodus, Shattered Sun has come along "with all the riffs, all the hooks and several fucktons of heavy metal fury" assures Metal Hammer.

Feed Her To The Sharks

Australian quintet, Feed Her To The Sharks, are out for blood and proved such with their 2015 Victory Records debut album, Fortitude, which was applauded by BLUNT Mag for "taking metalcore back to its riffy, growly roots". Having conquered their own metal scene, performing on the 2013 Van's Warped Tour Australia and constant touring since, this band is ready to unleash their dynamic, merciless live show onto the masses this summer in the States.

Code Orange

Code Orange's I Am King was released in September of 2014 and debuted on the Billboard 200 at #29. The album quickly peaked at #10 on the Billboard Top Hard Rock Albums chart and has gained rave reviews from music critics and fans alike. Watch Code Orange's latest video, "Dreams in Inertia", HERE.

Kissing Candice

Theatrics are promised with each performance and every listen of New York's gore-metal purveyors, Kissing Candice, who will be unleashing their Victory Records debut album this summer in time for the Mayhem festivities. Can't wait? Catch the blood-soaked, masked madmen of Kissing Candice performing alongside Twiztid and Davey Suicide, beginning May 1st.

Remember - get your tickets beginning Friday, April 17th at 10:00am local time! We'll see you in the pit!

About Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival:

The Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival is the world's premier heavy music touring festival. The festival is entering its eighth year in 2015 and has performed more than 190 shows throughout North America to over 2 million fans. The festival was founded by John Reese and Kevin Lyman and is booked by Darryl Eaton at Creative Artists Agency. Rockstar Energy Drink is the title sponsor and has maintained that role since the festival's inception.

About Rockstar Energy Drink:

Rockstar Energy Drink is designed for those who lead active lifestyles - from Athletes to Rockstars. Available in over 20 flavors at convenience and grocery outlets in over 30 countries, Rockstar supports the Rockstar lifestyle across the globe through Action Sports, Motor Sports, and Live Music. For more information visit: www.RockstarEnergy.com

Find us at:

www.Facebook.com/Rockstar

www.Twitter.com/RockstarEnergy

www.Instagram.com/RockstarEnergy

www.YouTube.com/Rockstar 

GUNDRIVER release new album "What's Inside" / On tour with MICHAEL SCHENKER's TEMPLE OF ROCK.

Hollywood, California's GUNDRIVER has just recently released their scorched earth debut album "What's Inside" and are currently on tour in the US with MICHAEL SCHENKER's TEMPLE OF ROCK. Gundriver is a rip-roaring, all gas-no brakes rock n roll band. The rockers joined forces in Hollywood with the sole intention of creating great rock n' roll. Comprised of the four basic elements that make up all great rock band: riffs, groove, thunderous beats and soaring vocals - Gundriver is solid from the ground up. Going with a bare bones songwriting approach, they have crafted their signature tone in the image of the great rock bands that have come before them. Heavily influenced by the likes AC/DC and Black Sabbath, their dedication groove is undeniable. "I like my riffs to make you stomp your feet, pump your fists or bang your head..." says founding guitarist Tom Potter of his approach to writing. Gundriver's rhythm section is made up of the synergistic duo Alex Rivas (Drums) and Crazy Tomes (Bass/Vocals). Tomes, a stellar multi-instrumentalist (Guitar, Bass, Piano and Vocals) with an exceptional ear, brings a wealth of stylistic and musical knowledge to the group. His unique vocal arrangement and intense delivery is showcased on "Against the Darkness" - A searing tip of the hat to Black Sabbath-era heavy metal. Alex Rivas is a percussionist capable of the delicate subtleties and driving rhythms that make the drums such a dynamic instrument. His explosive double bass, and thunderous fills can be heard on "Rip It" as well as his laid back approach to in-the-pocket playing on "Under the Rock". Gundriver's frontman, Crazy Tomes is a one-of-a-kind talent and true rock n' roll singer. Citing Bon Scott of AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath his main vocal influences, he brings intense and soulful vocals that are signature of a great rock band. A word-smith and energetic performer, Tomes clearly elevates the performance of his bandmates to an explosive level. Tom says of his duties as executive producer. "It's all in staying true to why we started the band in the first place... because we wanted to make great music, period...Rock fans deserve home-grown, REAL music, and that's what we're making... tune it in, turn it up and let 'er rip." Gundriver - "What's Inside" song clip For the latest band news, visit their official website and Facebook page: Gundriver official website Gundriver Facebook page:

LORDS OF THE TRIDENT announce upcoming US show dates and release "Light This City" official video.

LORDS OF THE TRIDENT announce a list of upcoming US show dates:

4/30 - Madison, WI - With Japan's action comic punk band Peelander-Z
(LOTT will be performing with a special guest lead guitarist on this date!)
5/22 - Rio, WI Headlining MAYBASH
6/12 - Madison, WI - with Zephaniah
6/13 - Appleton, WI - with Zephaniah and Forcefield
8/22 - Madison, WI - with Automaton
11/7 - Madison, WI - Gamehole Con 2015 at the Alliant Energy Center!

LORDS OF THE TRIDENT have also released a new live performance official video of the song "Light This City" taken from their recently released album "Frostburn".

Lead vocalist Fang VonWrathenstein has checked in with the following update:

"Many loyal minions traveled far and wide to attend our CD release party on Friday the 13th in Madison, Wisconsin. Some chartered jets, some rustled horses, one hijacked a cruise liner and somehow made it. All of this was pleasing to your LORDS. However, we know that some of our minions could not make the party, and so we've released this music video for "Light This City", which is a mashup of us playing the song live along with some of the best moments of the party. Did you miss Killius falling into the drumset? Well now you can relive the moment digitally, over and over again!"

Lords of the Trident - "Light This City" video

Lords of the Trident are currently in the process of filming and editing a follow-up music video for the song "Knights of Dragon's Deep".

For the latest band news, visit their official website and Facebook page:

Lords of the Trident official website

Official Lords of the Trident Facebook page:

Legendary Mercyful Fate guitarists Michael Denner and Hank Shermann prepare to release new album!

Michael Denner and Hank Shermann, the original guitar players of Mercyful Fate's legendary "Melissa" and "Don't Break the Oath" albums, have created a new classic in the forthcoming EP, "Satan's Tomb," coming in 2015 on Metal Blade Records. These songs were crafted with the Mercyful Fate worldwide legion of fans at the forefront of their collective minds. From the first riff to the last wail, one cannot help but feel the magic newly recaptured once again.

The band, which is simply called Denner / Shermann, calls into service a formidable group of allies who were capable of helping realize this menagerie of malice, was a task carefully orchestrated by these metal mad scientists. Shermann first called upon Marc Grabowski (Demonica) to handle the bass guitar, followed by the only drummer that made sense for many obvious aspects, the one known as Snowy Shaw (Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, Dream Evil)! Many voices were considered, but fate lead them to Sean Peck (Cage and Death Dealer). He was not only a fan but had the versatile vocal skills to make the new songs come to life like their fans would expect.

Hank Shermann comments: "We have been writing and recording with an incredible line up of musicians and the fans are in for a dark, classic, heavy metal treat for sure. We wanted to get back to the essence of what we created back in the early 80s" "The music inevitable sounds like you would hope it to be, fans of our early work should be very excited".

Music for their debut release has been completed, and the title of the album is "Satan's Tomb" and promises to be one of the finest pure classic metal releases of 2015.

Brian Slagel adds: "I am super excited to welcome Denner / Shermann to the Metal Blade family. I have known Michael and Hank for more than 25 years. 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 our web site or facebook.com/dennershermann

Contact: dennershermann@gmail.com

Denner / Shermann is:

Michael Denner - Guitars

Hank Shermann - Guitars

Sean Peck - Vocals

Snowy Shaw - Drums

Marc Grabowski - Bass

http://www.dennershermann.com

http://www.facebook.com/dennershermann

http://www.twitter.com/dennershermann

https://www.youtube.com/dennershermann 

Just posted - Rob and Chris from Impellitteri on This Weeks Focus on Metal

Episode 230 - Impellitteri

This week, to commemorate the release of their brand new album Venom, we welcome not one but two members of Impellitteri to the show. First up is guitar legend and all around nice guy Chris Impellitteri to talk about the making of this album as well as some very cool guitar talk. Next up is vocalist Rob Rock. Rob is going to give us the vocalist's perspective on the new release. Gotta say Venom may be their best outing yet. Although the band does not have any official websites you can reach Chris on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ChrisImpellitteri and Rob Rock has a site at http://www.robrock.com/

Track of the week is from Kiske-Somerville from their new one City of Heroes out now on Frontiers Records. This one also features Primal Fear's Magnus Karlsson and Matt Sinner. Amanda Somerville can be found at http://amandasomerville.com/site/. Get in touch with Michael Kiske at http://www.michael-kiske.de/

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

You can hear us every Wednesday on these great stations:
Pure Rock Radio, Metal World Radio, Audio Graffiti

You can hear us Thursdays on Platinum Rock Radio

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.

THE RODS announce US and European tour dates / BENEDICTUM vocalist Veronica Freeman as special guest.

American 80's heavy metal power trio THE RODS have announced a string of dates in the United States and Europe during April and May 2015.

The Rods will feature a guest performance from BENEDICTUM vocalist Veronica Freeman, ("The V") during selective shows.

+ US show featuring "The V".

++ European shows featuring "The V".

April 24 - Suzy's Tavern - Auburn, New York - +
May 2 - Ragnarokkr Festival, Chicago, Illinois
May 23 - Heavy Sound Festival - Poperinge, Belgium - ++
May 25 - Sounds - Lubeck, Germany - ++
May 28 - Muskelrock Festival, Tyrolen, Sweden - ++
June 13 - Pines Pavilion - Endicott, New York - Opening for Queensryche
June 20 - Dio Day, Cortland, New York

The Rods will be on the road promoting their latest critically acclaimed independently released album "Vengeance".

For the latest news, visit both The Rods and Benedictum official websites.

The Rods official website

Benedictum official website

Now available - Focus on Metal 229 Featuring Adrian Vandenberg

Episode 229 - Moon Kings Rising

So we did this interview with Adrian Vandenberg way back in January and we were going to run it a few weeks back but after the Reb Beach and Doug Aldrich episodes we felt we were a bit Whitesnake heavy so opted to wait a few more weeks. So here it is a great chat we had with guitarist and all around nice guy Adrian Vandenberg about his current band Moon Kings as well as some delving into his past history.

Find out more about Vandenberg's Moon Kings at http://www.moonkingsband.com/ or be social at https://www.facebook.com/moonkingsband or https://twitter.com/moonkingsband

Track of the week is courtesy of our friends at AFM Records. Wolfpakk just released their third album "Rise of The Animal" and this week we feature a great track off of it. Find Wolfpakk on the net at http://www.wolfpakk.net

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

You can hear us every Wednesday on these great stations:
Pure Rock Radio, Metal World Radio, Audio Graffiti

You can hear us Thursdays on Platinum Rock Radio

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.

DARKOLOGY Unveil 'Fated To Burn' Album Details, Lyric Video Streaming

US heavy metallers DARKOLOGY will release their sophomore album, 'Fated To Burn' between the 8th  and the 15th of June 2015, through Prime Eon Media and it's partners worldwide, on CD and digital formats. Multiple special package configurations will be made exclusively available through the band's web store and a vinyl release may follow later in the year. The album artwork and the new lyric video for the song 'On Morrow's Break' can be viewed below.

https://youtu.be/gdwshrNsx8c

DARKOLOGY features in it's ranks the amazing Harris brothers, Michael (Thought Chamber, Arch Rival, Leather, Chastain) on guitars and Brian (Firewind, Solstice (US), My own Victim, etc.) on drums respectively. On vocals Kelly Sundown Carpenter (Beyond Twilight , Outworld, Epysode and former touring vocalist for Firewind), returns with some OUT OF THIS WORLD performances. Last but not least the extremely talented bassist Mike Neal (Medieval Steel, Salems Lot, etc.) lays down some solid grooves and has even co-written about half of the songs on this album, as well as most of the lyrics, making this a great, highly collaborative, team effort.

Track listing:

01. Kill Me If You Can
02. Beyond The Grave
03. On Morrows Break
04. The Eyes Of The Machine
05. Quantum Genocide
06. The Shadows Of Oth
07. Fated To Burn
08. 21st Century Frankensteins (Nobot2)
09. Festival Of Fear
10. Holy
11. Nightmare King
i. Shadows Of The Abyss
ii. The Summoning
iii. The Construct
iv. Eternus Nocturne: The Dark Domain
12. Your Hollow Soul (instrumental mix, bonus track)

Chris Tsangarides, the famous Anglo-Cypriot, Grammy nominated producer did handle mixing duties and mastering took place at AthensMastering.

An enthusiastic Chris exclaims: ‘As I was mixing the album and as the songs were coming alive, I was thinking wow this is good, that is also good, this is VERY good. This happened about a dozen times. It’s rather rare at this day and age, that you get an album that’s all killer and no filler and I am not using that expression lightly. ‘Fated To Burn‘ is a must have album. It’s an aural assault of all senses with plenty of melody and bombast for the most discerning Metal-heads.‘

DARKOLOGY are:

Kelly Sundown Carpenter - Vocals (Beyond Twilight , Outworld, Epysode and former touring vocalist for Firewind)
Michael Harris - Guitars (Thought Chamber, Arch Rival, Leather, Chastain)
Mike Neal- Bass (Medieval Steel, Salem's Lot)
Brian Harris - Drums (Firewind, Solstice (US), My own Victim)

DARKOLOGY did make quite an impression in 2009, when they released their debut album, ‘Altered Reflections‘ which received tons of praise around the globe and sold, in very healthy qualities. The band did not give up in their effort to make their music more appealing and a couple of years later begun composing what would end up formulating their sophomore release.

The band recently concluded a highly successful tour in 2014 with Overkill, Prong and Enforcer with all reviews that have poured in, being extremely flattering.

www.darkology.com
www.facebook.com/pages/Darkology-Official/276598509156535

Battlecross Joins Crowbar on The Summer of Doom Across North America

Motor City thrashers Battlecross have announced that they will join Crowbar and Lord Dying on The Summer of Doom Tour, with the devastation beginning May 28th and ending July 3rd in Crowbar's home state of Louisiana.

"I am beyond excited to tour with one of my favorite bands, Crowbar. Ever since I heard Odd Fellows Rest, I've been a fan. Kirk Windstein is such a monster guitar player. His riffs are inspiring. It's an honor to be able to hit the road with these guys and I'm thankful and excited for the opportunity. We're excited to get back out there, especially Western Canada (it's been too long!) See you all soon!" says Battlecross Guitarist, Hiran Deraniyagala.

The Summer of Doom is the first tour for Battlecross since finishing the production of their third Metal Blade release, produced by Mark Lewis and engineered by Jason Suecof at Audiohammer Studios. The tour also puts an end to the band's search for a permanent drummer, announcing that the bay area's Alex Bent will sit behind the kit. After performing with the band on two 2014 headliners and in South America, Alex joined the band in the studio for the next album. He can be seen here performing 'Ghost Alive' last winter on the Winter Warriors Tour https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OBCaEWCFiU.

Battlecross also appears at the 2015 Heavy MTL in Montreal on August 8th. Summer of Doom Tickets go on sale tomorrow, April 3rd, 2015!

New album details and music are coming soon!

BATTLECROSS

05/23 Bogota, CO Teatro Al Aire Libre La Media Torta

Summer of Doom Tour

w/ Crowbar, Lord Dying

05/28 Shreveport, LA Riverside Warehouse

05/29 Dallas, TX Gas Monkey Bar & Grill

05/30 Austin, TX Dirty Dog Bar

05/31 Houston, TX Scout Bar

06/04 San Diego, CA Til-Two Club

06/05 Long Beach, CA DiPiazza's

06/06 Hollywood, CA Whisky A Go Go

06/07 Oakland, CA Oakland Metro Operahouse

06/08 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theatre

06/09 Seattle, WA El Corazon

06/10 Vancouver, BC The Rickshaw Theater

06/12 Calgary, AB Republik

06/13 Edmonton, AB Pawn Shop Live

06/14 Saskatoon, SK O'Brian's Event Centre

06/16 Winnipeg, MB The Zoo Cabaret

06/17 St. Paul, MN Amsterdam Bar & Hall

06/18 Cudahy, WI The Metal Grill

06/19 Detroit, MI Shelter

06/20 Chicago, IL Reggie's Rock Room

06/21 Columbus, OH Alrosa Villa

06/22 Cleveland, OH Agora Ballroom

06/23 Toronto, ON MOD Club

06/24 Ottawa, ON Mavericks

06/25 Montreal, QC La Sala Rossa

06/26 Worcester, MA The Palladium

06/27 Clifton Park, NY Trick Shot Billiards

06/28 Philadelphia, PA Voltage Lounge

06/29 Brooklyn, NY St. Vitus Bar

06/30 Frederick, MD Cafe 611

07/01 Columbia, SC New Brookland Tavern

07/02 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade

07/03 Baton Rouge, LA Varsity Theatre

End Tour

08/08 Montreal, QC Heavy MTL

Battlecross' most recent album, "War of Will," debuted at #134 on the Billboard Top 200 chart upon its release in July of 2013. This was the band's first ever Billboard chart debut! "War of Will" also peaked at #3 on the US iTunes metal chart on the day of release. Watch the music video for "Never Coming Back" now at metalblade.com/battlecross.

http://battlecrossmetal.com

http://www.facebook.com/battlecrossmetal

http://twitter.com/battlecross

http://www.youtube.com/battlecrossmi 

Salt Lake City Thrashers DEATHBLOW Debut New Track

Salt Lake City Thrashers DEATHBLOW have debuted a new track from upcoming EP The Other Side of Darkness. Check out No Clean Singing's exclusive stream of "Means to an End" right here.

DEATHBLOW will release new EP The Other Side of Darkness on April 21. The sophomore release continues the scorched earth campaign launched with 2014 debut full-length Prognosis Negative, upping the intensity level, sharpening the songwriting, and leaving any fan of true blue Thrash Metal in a state of pure bliss.

Stream the title track from The Other Side of Darkness at this location.

 The Other Side of Darkness was recorded by Andy Peterson and DEATHBLOW. Peterson also handled mixing and mastering duties. Cover art comes courtesy of Andreas Marschall. The Other Side of Darkness is without question recommended for fans of KREATOR, SODOM, VOIVOD, and DESTRUCTION. 

1. Beyond Obsession

2. Means To An End

3. The Other Side Of Darkness

4. Headless Throne

5. Death Wish

Deathblow Facebook http://deathblow1.bandcamp.com/

Satan's Wrath to release "Die Evil" next month

New track online now!

Launching forth on a nefarious mission dictated specifically by the horned master himself, Satan's Wrath stubbornly refuse to take their foot off the accelerator on their nightmarish ride to insanity and overload. This brainchild of sulphur-throated multi-instrumentalist Tas Danazoglou, has grown in monstrous stature, unflinching cruelty and sheer bloody-minded intensity over the course of its two full-throttle platters thus far, building an ominous pathway for Die Evil, its third unholy document, which emerges from Stamos' own 210 Studios in Berlin, unto twilight in intimidating fashion, blasting their blasphemous attack into dimensions of dementia hitherto deemed beyond the pale.

Listen to "A Mindless Servant of Satan" now on metalblade.com/satanswrath. "Die Evil" will be released on May 5th in North America, on May 1st in Germany/Austria/Switzerland, and on May 4th in the rest of Europe.

The formula in Satan's Wrath's cauldron is simple, and the resultant elixir delivers a feverish 21st century continuation of the paganizing infernal assault that was heavy metal at its underground mid-eighties pinnacle: damaged by the slavering spite of Venom, the fleshripping fortitude of Metal Blade-era Slayer, the nightmarish derangement of Possessed, and the machine-gun onslaught of Destruction. Yet make no mistake; this is no retro confection, no harking back to an idealised, battle-jacketed aesthetic ideal. This is a sound driven by a hard-driving imperative of corruption and malevolence, and rendered forth with an unflinching filth of delivery.

Hideous new worlds of depravity are opened up by Die Evil, without a shadow of a doubt the darkest, fastest and most powerful blast of fury that this demonic force has thus far produced. Satan's Wrath's diseased headspace is one where to play heavy metal means to be a thorn in society's side, and an adversary to respectability. Where metal means transgression, where metal means war. Where metal means evil.

Tas Danazoglou - Bass and Vocals

Stamos K - Guitars

V - Guitars

Kostas - Drums

http://www.metalblade.com/satanswrath