SevenKingdoms

Saturday, December 28, 2013

MORFIN to Release "Inoculation" 2/21 on FDA Rekotz

From the depths of Californian crypts, FDA Rekotz presents bone-breaking death metal act MORFIN and their debut album, Inoculation. Comprised of 10 classically-inspired death metal hymns - including a surprise cover tune - Inoculation crushes faces in the vein of early Death, Gorguts and Skeletal Remains. The album was recorded at Executer Studio in Pico Rivera, Calif., (Skeletal Remains), with artwork by Badic Art (Skeletal Remains, Goregast, Demonical, Dehuman Reign).

Inoculation is set for a February 21 release on CD, vinyl and digital formats. The vinyl LP will be offered on red/black marbled (100 copies only) or standard black vinyl. Pre-orders are being taken now at this location

Check out album track "Dark Creator" at the link below:


Rising from the influences of heavy metal, MORFIN is a metal band, delineating the negativity present in the world, in life, and the future that is caused by the evil, veracity, domination and deception that drives the human race. Delivering the message with their music to prepare for what lies ahead.....


Friday, December 27, 2013

LIE IN RUINS: "Toward Divine Death" Coming in February on Dark Descent Records

Finnish death metal legion LIE IN RUINS will release their newest burnt offering, Toward Divine Death, on February 4 via Dark Descent Records.  

Toward Divine Death the anticipated follow-up to 2009's Swallowed by the Void - released on Spinefarm Records. Finland's Lie in Ruins make no missteps in delivering a 70-minute opus of pure death metal. Spanning 10 tracks, Towards the Divine Death, displays a much more mature band and vision. While you will hear typical LIE IN RUINS moments on this album, make no mistake, this is a nastier and grittier album that will leave you hoping the band doesn't go five more years before assaulting us with another album. Hail supreme Finnish death! Hail the divine death! 
  

Pre-orders are being taken now at www.darkdescentrecords.com


Lie in Ruins was formed initially at the golden season of  Death Metal in the early 90's, but was buried in the background for several years. In 2002, the beast dug up again from his tomb to spread the seed of evil now when the time was ready. After the first demo Monuments was released, the need for a second guitarist was met. This unholy trinity began working on new material. After the next demo Statues, it was time to take the next step, and start spreading the musical propaganda at live. So it was time to get some new members again, and this time Lie in Ruins grew into five.

Meanwhile, the Spanish label Temple Of Darkness released a mini-cd from Lie in Ruins, called Architecture Of The Dead, which was compilation of the Monuments and Statues demos. Next came the split 7-inch with Deathevokation, called "Allegiance in death", published by the Imperium Productions.

In 2009, drummer decided to left from the band before the recording of the new album. Continuing without him, band entered the studio and recorded ten desecrating songs for the full-length album called Swallowed By The Void, which represents Lie in Ruins as gloomier and darker than ever before. Now, war beside Satan will continue by proclaiming hymns for Lucifer as live with the new full line-up. The full power of this beast will be felt with Toward Divine Death. Hail Satan, Hail Death! 


Thursday, December 26, 2013

Review - Primal Fear "Delivering The Black" (Frontiers)

This January metal powerhouse Primal Fear is set to release their tenth studio album "Delivering The Black" on Frontiers. Primal Fear is among the bands that I will automatically purchase when new stuff comes out and even with a digital review copy from the label I will still be buying this one too. 


Produced once again by Matt Sinner with Achim Kohler running the faders and Jacob Hansen doing the mix work this release has a great studio pedigree behind it. The same lineup from last years "Unbreakable" release is back on board for this one and with the exception of the second guitar spot it's the same lineup that played on the superlative "16.6 (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead)".

The disc consists of 10 tracks on the regular release or 13 on the deluxe edition. The deluxe edition also comes with a DVD with some music vids and the all important "making of" video.

Primal Fear is at their best when they put the essence of Judas Priest into the power metal format. The first track "King For A Day" delivers the goods on this. They chose wisely when the put this one upfront. This track could easily slide right onto Painkiller. Magnus Karlsson has got a crunchy tone on this that will make any Priest fan happy and Randy Black's insistent drumming hooks you right in. How much better can it get? Well as soon as Ralf Scheepers lets loose with the vocal you know this is gonna be a great Primal Fear disc and with track 1 clocking in at under four minutes it leaves you wanting more. And more you get…

Rebel Faction is up next. It starts with bait of deception as you get some cinematic orchestral stuff and then all hell brakes loose. This one is relentless. Even during the bridge where everything seems to slow down the drums never let up. The other bit of coolness on this one is that each part goes seamlessly into each other. There's none of the normal blocking and changes between riffs it just flows. Magnus also turns in a short but great solo on here too.

Track 3 is "When Death Comes Knocking". It starts with a quasi acoustic intro with this really well done delay/echo on there. It reminds me of something that would have been an intro on "Master of Puppets" that transitions to something that sounds very much like "Back For The Attack" era Dokken. The versres on this are classic Primal, very stripped down with a laid back drum groove and Ralf's vocal backed only by Matt Sinner's bass line. At around 3:50 there's this very middle eastern sounding acoustic part which builds into a very cinematic part which then transitions to a really nice duel guitar harmony section. At the tail end of that Magnus just rips. It's a excellent song but at 7 minutes I thought it was bit early to be injecting this one into the party. I would have really liked to have heard at least one more short powerful one before an epic.

If the guys in Primal were trying to capture the classic vibe of Accept they succeeded on "Alive And On Fire". A very simple drum and bass groove with some great riffing laid on top. If someone played this blindly for you I almost think you would guess it was Accept with Mark Storace from Krokus doing a vocal guest spot. This would have sounded great in the three spot and would have ramped the energy down just a notch for the seven minute epic. Any way you look at though this is some classic style metal being played by some modern metal masters.

Up next is the title track and again they have not disappointed. Straight ahead flawless metal. I also really like the vocals on this. Both the melody line that Ralf applies and also the gang vocals that back him up. The lyrics also deserve a listen as they continue on with a long standing Primal theme. This also has one of my favorite guitar breaks, a perfectly executed roller coaster of metal guitar.

So five tracks in and this is shaping up to be an insanely good release. "Road To Asylum" continues this promise. This one is classic German power metal in every sense. If you listen to enough of it, you know it when you hear it. This one will be killer live.


I'm torn on track 7 "One Night in December". First it's over nine minutes long. It's also very keyboardy. I know it's not a real word but I'm keeping there anyways. Oddly even at over nine minutes it actually seems to be shorter when you listen to it. I knew it was long but I was actually surprised when I found out just how long it was. My only other issue with this one is that I thought that maybe it needed some more backing vocals at least later in the track. I do like the track though it just doesn't shine as bright as some of those four minute monsters elsewhere on the disc.

Track 8 "Never Pray For Justice" kicks off with some type of sound. I still can't decide what it is chainsaw, mini-bike, food processor? I've listened to the lyrics and I still don't have any idea how to tie that sound back to the song. If I get to talk to Matt about the album I'll be asking him about that. Beyond that the song is great. Another two thumbs up song from these guys. Two more like this and this album will be a total success.

Alas it's not to be. Remember when Klaus Meine decided that it was better for the Scorpions for him to write those acoustic ballads instead of those great Herman Rarebell songs? Remember how betrayed we felt as metalheads? That's how I felt listening to "Born With A Broken Heart". Even having Liv Kristine doing a guest spot here was going to sway me on this one. There is slower stuff that I like, honest. I know come off as only liking the fast stuff but there's plenty of slower stuff that makes the grade. "Slipping Away" from Dokken is a great slow tune. On this one it's not the tempo it's just the vibe I get from it. It's too much of a reminder of the Scorpion's dark times. Moving on...

The closer is "Inseminoid". First off I freaking love that title. I don't know why but it sounds very metal. Remember the machine on the cover of Hurricane's "Slave To The Thrill" I think that should have been called the Inseminoid. Anyways, the last track once again redeems the band. Another example of well crafted power metal. This one has everything you listen to Primal Fear for. A killer galloping drum part, crunchy guitars and the ever present voice of Ralf Scheepers. A cool note on this one is the way that the vocal melody follows the chord stabs on the guitars. This one is so good I'm almost willing to forgive them for the previous track.


So all in all "Delivering The Black" has once again delivered on the legacy that is Primal Fear. Seven killer metal tracks that clock in at five minutes or less. Two longer tunes that still stand strong and fit with the rest of the tracks and one that just didn't work for me. When I had talked with matt Sinner over the summer he had said the new Primal was going to amazing and he was more right than he knew. I'll be putting down my metal dollars and getting the deluxe edition. I hope that you will too.

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Pure Steel to release ASKA "Fire Eater" in a limited vinyl edition on January 31st


The release date of the ASKA album "Fire Eater" on vinyl is January 31st, 2014. The limited vinyl edition consists 333 pieces (black/orange splatter) and is coming with gatefold. The preorder phase will start on January 17th, 2014 in our webshop.

Not very many US-Metal fans might make a list of their favorite bands of the 80s without ASKA from Texas. The quartet built around front man George Call (ex-OMEN) has played for 23 years and knows how to fascinate the scene. Albums like “Nine Tongues” and “Avenger” (both re-released by Pure Steel) have reached cult status. Their latest studio album was released six years ago, so it’s definitely time for something new!

So now we present “Fire Eater”: powerful and with lots of drive and passion, as we know from their former albums. Melodic and straight heavy metal with a typical ASKA sound, George’s distinctive, rough and high power-voice, perfectly placed high-pitched screams, and some classic Maiden-Twin-leads: everything that a metal fan might wish for can be found on this newest release. The anthem-like “Valhalla”, the fast double-bass “Son of a God”, “Eye of the Serpent” (which was on EMERALD’s “Unleashed” album), or the powerful JUDAS PRIEST-cover version “The Ripper”: ASKA always know how to convince their fans!
With “Fire Eater”, ASKA show that classic US-metal has not lost its magic!

TRACKLIST:
Side A
1. Everyone Dies
2. Dead Again
3. Vahalla
4. Son Of A God
5. Angela
Side B
6. Harlot Of Eden
7. Red Cell
8. The Ripper
9. Year Of Jubilee
10. The Last Message
11. Eye Of The Serpent

Greyhaze Records to Release "Warfare Noise" Comp on Vinyl LP with Restored/Remastered Audio

Greyhaze Records has announced the February 18 North American release of the vinyl LP reissue of Warfare Noise, the seminal four-way split album featuring Brazilian extreme metal greats SARCOFAGO, CHAKAL, HOLOCAUSTO, and MUTILATOR. 

Originally released in 1986 via legendary Brazilian metal label Cogumelo Records, the album's original masters had lost much of their audio prowess due to the long amount of time elapsed since its first release. This new album reissue, however, was carefully restored by mastering engineer Dave Eck and is, once again, available the same way as it was over two decades ago. The savage output of all four bands can be heard just as in the original version.

The packaging of this reissue was also carefully restored by graphic artist Fernando Lima and is now available as a faithful representation of the 1986 release. Aside from the insert, the packaging also includes a special poster with a depiction of the concert flier for the Warfare Noise release show which took place in Belo Horizonte, Brazil in 1986 featuring all four bands.

Despite having been out of print for decades, the Warfare Noise compilation is one of the most important documents of early Brazilian metal. It features bands that have played an important role in the development of Black and Death Metal including important influence in bands such as Mayhem, Darkthrone, Blasphemy, and Beherit. The vinyl LP version features the original eight tracks from that album. The compilation is also one of the first albums ever released by Cogumelo Records, who was responsible for the first releases by metal giants SEPULTURA. 

Order the CD digipak version  at the link below. Vinyl pre-orders coming soon.  


Cursed Cross (Chakal)
Mr. Jesus Christ (Chakal)
Believers of Hell (Mutilator)
Nuclear Holocaust (Mutilator)
Recrucify (Sarcofago)
The Back Vomit (Sarcofago)
Satanas (Sarcofago)
Destruicao Nuclear (Holocausto)
Escarro Napalm (Holocausto)


Monday, December 23, 2013

CELLADOR Confirmed for Ohio's Warriors of Metal Fest VII in 2014



December 23, 2013. Cincinnati, Ohio-- The Warriors of Metal, Inc. non-profit organization is very excited to announce the Denver, Colo., based Power Metal band CELLADOR as the first confirmed artist for our 7th annual Warriors Of Metal Fest, to be held at O'Sheckys LIVE in Columbus, Ohio from Thursday, June 26 to Saturday, June 28, 2014.

Band founder, guitarist and vocalist, Chris Petersen states: "I'm fully stoked to announce our participation in next year's Warriors of Metal Festival! The band is excited to return to Ohio revitalized and energetic as ever. The fest has some great guys working behind the curtains and we're excited to see all the bands as well. Happy to take part in what is turning into a powerhouse of a festival! Cheers \m/!"

Check out "Unchained" from CELLADOR's latest release, Honor Forth, at this location

For more on CELLADOR, visit www.facebook.com/Cellador.

Keep up-to-date with all of the developments such as band announcements and ticket information for next year's show through the Warrior's of Metal Fest's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/warriorsofmetal

MIDNITE HELLION Releases "Hour of the Wolf" 7-Inch Single

New Jersey metallers MIDNITE HELLION have released the "Hour of the Wolf" 7-inch, limited-edition vinyl single. This two-tune rager offers a taste of the band's powerful and melodic brand of trad-inspired metal. The single is available in translucent blue (100 copies) and classic black (400 copies) vinyl. 

Order Hour of the Wolf and more from MIDNITE HELLION at www.midnitehellion.com.


MIDNITE HELLION is currently hard at work on material for a new full-length album, to be recorded and released in 2014. A live cassette is in the works as well. The band has been confirmed for the 2014 Ragnarökkr Metal Apocalypse, set for April 4 & 5 at Reggie's in Chicago, Ill. For fest details, visit www.ragnarokkrmetal.com.


Side Witches:  Hour Of The Wolf 
Side Brew:  The Morrigan

"Killer tunes!" -Ron Lipnicki, OverKill

"I've never felt so happy to get hit repeatedly in the face with a plastic fence." 
-Brian "Lumberjack" Smith

TRENCHROT To Release "Necronomic Warfare" on Unspeakable Axe Records

Death metal war machine TrenchRot are unleashing their debut Necronomic Warfare upon the world and none will be spared.  With influences ranging from other war-themed bands like Asphyx and Bolt Thrower, to the vomitous vocals and epic, soaring lead work of Obituary's Cause of Death, this is an old school death metal album that doesn't feel self-conscious about being what it is.  It just crushes everything in its path, and leaves the bloodied listener staggering away... and grinning ear to ear.  Members are in other promising new bands, such as Crypt Sermon - whose first demo will see a cassette release from Dark Descent Records soon - and Infiltrator, and promise to soon be well-known names in the underground.

Necronomic Warfare is set for a February 18 release on Unspeakable Axe Records. 


Check out album cut "Sickening Devotion" at this location


TrenchRot makes music within the structure of two rules:
1. Play Death Metal
2. Crush posers


NINTH CIRCLE signed a worldwide deal with PURE ROCK RECORDS/PURE STEEL RECORDS!


NINTH CIRCLE (USA) have signed a worldwide deal with PURE ROCK RECORDS, a sublabel of PURE STEEL RECORDS! More News coming soon.


"Ninth Circle is very excited to be on board with Pure Steel Records! We've put quite a bit of effort into our upcoming release from the song writing to the recording and to every last detail.  Pure Steel Records have always shown great support to their artists.  It is wonderful to know that we've signed with a Company who will give us the push we need for this CD and for the future of Ninth Circle .. worldwide!"

Sunday, December 22, 2013

STEEL PROPHET to Rerelease "The Goddess Principle" on vinyl via Pure Steel


STEEL PROPHET were founded in 1983 and are something like a legend for US/Power-Metal gourmets. The band built around guitarist Steve Kachinsky Blakmoor and vocalist Rick Mythiasin have now signed a deal with Pure Steel Records. As a prelude to this cooperation we decided to rerelease the legendary debut album “The Goddess Principle” on vinyl (originally released in 1995 by the northern German label Brainstorm Division). This rerelease is a limited edition of 500 numbered copies! High and distinctive killer-screams that remind one sometimes of AGENT STEEL, breathtaking, sophisticated and unique twin-guitar-solos, sometimes epic abundant song-structures: the features of this album read like a paradigm of our label spectrum. Who once has heard tracks like the seven-minute monument “Reign of Christ” (which will open the B-side on our rerelease), gripping anthems like “Souls Without Honor”, “To Grasp Eternity” and “Parthenogenesis”, or the slightly thrashy tracks “The Inner Voiced Silence” and “Fatal Euphoria”, will understand at once why this band is until now in the hearts of all Keep It True/Headbangers Open Air/Swordbrothers-visitors. Sophisticated lead-passages feature alongside catchy and distinctive choruses, speedy parts are as natural as calm and quiet ones. The production was rather unusual at the time, very basic and earthy, which gives this album a very special appeal. To put it in a nutshell: “The Goddess Principle” is a must for everyone!


Release date: January 31st, 2014
Label: Pure Steel Records
style: Power Metal
catalogue nr.: PSRLP039

TRACKLIST:
Seite A
1. Souls Without Honor
2. Devoid of Logic
3. Ruby Dreams
4. Prophecy Upon Us
5. The Inner Voice Silenced
6. To Grasp Eternity
Seite B
1. Reign Of Christ
2. Fatal Euphoria
3. Penance of Guilt
4. Parthenogenesis
Total Playing Time: 53:57 min

Saturday, December 21, 2013

THRASH BOMBZ - " Mission Of Blood" to be released Jan-24th via Pure Steel


Thrash Bombz was born in december 2007 in Sicilia from the ashes of Necrosis (Death/Thrash band from AG), to play Thrash Metal without compromises. The line-up is Giuseppe “UR” Peri (rhythm guitar/bass) & Salvatore “Skizzo” Li Causi (lead guitar/drums). With the help of Tony Frenda on voice the band recorded the demotape “Sicilian Way of Thrash!!” will be released in march 2012. In the meantime was found the frontman, Leonardo “Thrash Maniac” Botta and in the first days of 2013 the band recorded the new Demo-EP “Mission of Blood” 5 tracks of Pure F***n’ Thrash!!! In april new arrival in line-up with Angelo "Destruktor" Bissanti (bass) & Vincenzo “Vihol” Lombardi (drums). In October 2013 the band complete the recordings for the first full album which is include 12 Tracks of pure oldschool Thrash and two video clips from Metal Camp festival (16.Aug 2013)! Thrash 'til Death!!

Releasedate: 24th January 2014
Label: Iron Shield Records
Genre: Thrash Metal
Katalog-Nr.: ISR 018-13/C

TRACKLIST:
1. Mosh Tank
2. City Grave
3. Thrash Bombz
4. Human Obliteration
5. Mission Of Blood
6. Command Of Injury
7. Dead Body Hanged
8. Fear Of The Light
9. Necrosis
10. A.H.B
11. The Curse
12. Toxic Waste
Total Playing Time: 40:13 min

BLOODSOAKED to Release "Religious Apocalypse" on Comatose Music

USDM force BLOODSOAKED is set to return in 2014 with their newest release, Religious Apocalypse. With the addition of a second guitarist, the band is ready to annihilate all that is holy with their old-school storm of ravaging ferocity. Religious Apocalypse features new material, along with live tracks and a couple of surprise cover songs. BLOODSOAKED has mastered the craft of combining the classic death metal feel with precision modern production to create the supreme blend of total sonic destruction. 


Religious Apocalypse is set for a Spring 2014 release on Comatose Music.

BLOODSOAKED's last recorded output came in the form of The Death of Hope, released in 2011 via Comatose Music. That album, along with 2009's Sadistic Greed...Grotesque Memories are streaming in full at www.bloodsoaked.stereokiller.com

Both titles and more from BLOODSOAKED are available at www.comatosemusic.com.

Friday, December 20, 2013

Savage Messiah banned by Freemasons over photo-shoot

UK Metal band Savage Messiah attempted to hire the UK Freemason headquarters for an upcoming photo-shoot but were banned from entering the United Grand Lodge in London after the society considered the metal band’s name “offensive” citing:  “There are concerns over the group’s name and we have to be conscious of our members.”
The Fateful Dark, to be released March 10th 2014, is the scintillating third album from the London based heavy metallers and thematically covers some of the rituals and controversy surrounding the secret society of Freemasonry.
Cross of Babylon, the third track makes reference to a highly secretive Masonic ritual called The Red Cross of Babylon, whilst the eye-catching album artwork depicts themes of greed, power and corruption alongside Masonic iconography.
Savage Messiah frontman Dave Silver said:
"Once more the dubiously hypocritical nature of religious groups has reared its head. We've been denied access to a building due to our apparently "offensive" name. I'm assuming that the word "Savage" is the root of the consternation in question. This I find amusing from a group of people that adhere to a book that promotes Slavery, Genocide and celebrates a single human sacrifice as if it had any baring what so ever in the eradication of "sin" or whatever that is supposed to be. If the band was called "arse-fucked Messiah" I might understand their concern, however the very nature of the biblical myths is based on the most savage of human behaviours. Ironically most Christian churches depict the effigy of a brutal murder, the most violent of image of a man strung up, maimed, humiliated and sacrificed, yet us long haired, peace loving, free-thinking heavy metal louts are too "Savage" to enter a building...such is the way of the world!"
Savage Messiah release their second album via Earache Records entitled ‘The Fateful Dark’ available on CD and limited edition coloured vinyl, available to pre-order from 6pm GMT Friday 20th December here:

Release date of album: March 10th 2014


View the different colours on offer here > http://earache.tumblr.com/image/70600017387

All pre-orders from Earache come with bonus 3 track CD or 10inch of covers from Iron Maiden, Diamond Head and Motorhead.

THE FATEFUL DARK is available to pre-order now on iTunes, and includes three instant grat tracks which will be available to download on the following dates:
December 11th - "Cross of Babylon"
January 10th - "Minority of One"
February 10th - "Hellblazer"
Pre-order THE FATEFUL DARK now on iTunes at http://bit.ly/1jNdx7R  
See Savage Messiah on tour at the following shows:
Feb. 25 - London, UK - Borderline
Mar. 05 - York, UK - Fibbers
Mar. 07 - Manchester, UK - Sound Control
Mar. 08 - Wolverhampton, UK - Slade Rooms

Get more SAVAGE MESSIAH news and info at:


OMNIVORE: Italian Death-Thrashers To Release Debut on Unspeakable Axe Records

Unspeakable Axe Records has announced the release of the self-titled debut from Italian death/thrashers Omnivore.  Like their name suggests, Omnivore are equal-opportunity devourers. Their raging full-length shows that they clearly consumed old death/thrash acts from Europe and the U.S. - think Massacra, Merciless, and Sadus - as well as the more-familiar Bay Area bands, represented here by the use of gang vocals, some melodic lead parts, and even a startlingly well-played acoustic passage.  Of course, one of their biggest influences is revealed by the hidden bonus track at the end, a cover song that implores you to "Arise!"


Album track "Omnivore" is currently pounding eardrums at this location

Hailing from Varese and spawned in 2011 from the ashes of Nightmare Of Fallen, Omnivore is already a project on hold. The band's lone album (so far at least) is going to burn down villages and consume the fleeing villagers. Omnivore is due for release via CD format on February 18 on Unspeakable Axe Records.


WE ALL DIE (laughing) To Release "Thoughtscanning" January 14 on Kaotoxin Records

French-Bulgarian Progressive Extreme Metal duo WE ALL DIE (laughing), will release their debut, Thoughtscanning, on January 14 via Kaotoxin Records. WE ALL DIE (laughing) features vocalist-extraordinaire Arno Strobl (Carnival In Coal, 6:33...) and multi-talented musician and composer Déhà (C.O.A.G., Maladie...).

WE ALL DIE (laughing) appeared for the first time as guest musicians on EYE OF SOLITUDE's digital EP The Deceit. This appearance - which was just reissued as a bonus track on EYE OF SOLITUDE's newest release Canto III - was merely a hint of the duo's combined genius. The meeting of these two boundary-pushing brains resulted in a one-track, 33-minute opus explores a multiverse of musical possibilities and offers a challenging, yet highly satisfying experience. The limited-edition first pressing of Thoughtscanning will feature a bonus cover of Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black." 

France's VS-Webzine is now streaming Thoughtscanning in full at this location.  

Pre-orders are now being taken at the following links:

shop.kaotoxin.com (CD and merch) 


Thoughtscanning was recorded at Déhà's HH Studio, with mixing and mastering duties handled by El Mobo at Conkrete studios (Gorod, Otargos...). The artwork for the album was drawn by underground artist Maxime Taccardi (Necrophagia, Agathocles, C.O.A.G.).

Thoughtscanning will be available as a limited edition (1,000 copies) deluxe DigiSleeve CD, with the first press featuring an exclusive bonus track, a cover version of Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black." A full line of merchandising, including t-shirts, girlie t-shirts and hooded sweat-shirts will be available alone or as specially priced bundles. The artwork for the merchandise pays homage to (in)famous Mayhem De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas merch with a Mayhem-inspired "WAD(L)" logo on front (designed by Poups/Undead Kreation (Savage Annihilation)) and the band's picture with "KTXN" on the back.
  
Arno Strobl is perhaps best known for his work with extreme avante-garde metal outfit CARNIVAL IN COAL, who released albums on Earache and Season of Mist Records. In May of 2012, he released the Giggles, Garlands & Gallows EP with experimentalists 6:33  & ANRO STROBL.  
  
Déhà is the mad scientist behind the one-man grind unit C.O.A.G., which just released the digital single "Sociopath" as part of the Kaotoxin Sideblast Series, a "crowd-funding that costs nothing" project launched by the label earlier this year. C.O.A.G. also appeared on Kaotoxin's In Grindo Veritas compilation and will release a split with Total Fucking Destruction, Infected Society, Unsu, Miserable Failure and Department Of Correction in early 2014.  


DISTANT PAST "Utopian Void" - release date: 17th January 2014


From our friends at Pure Steel...

The release date of the DISTANT PAST album "Utopian Void" is January 17th, 2014. The preorder phase will start on January 3rd, 2014 in our webshop.

The newest incarnation of Distant Past, the mystery-themed Heavy Rock/Metal Band founded by A.Troiano (Emerald ), features former Emerald Lead Singer/Guitarist  Jvo Julmy on Vocals.
The little man with the big voice is the shining Star of the new Album, gracing atop the varied song material.

Apart from the Megadeth-like „On the Edge“, most Songs are in the melodic Power Metal Vein, which suits Jvo so well.  „Kingdom of Shadows“ maintains a very madienesque Bass and Guitar Groove; „The Illusion“, „Helpless“ and „A Day of Darkness“ showcase the Band in full 80’s Mode, while „Breath – The Spell“ and „Faces“ show a softer side of the band, but only in parts….
The final Track „The Hell of Verdun“ is a journey into World War One, it takes the listerner through the stages of the most horrendous fights in human history.
Due to popular demand, the first issue of „Utopian Void“ includes 2 Bonus Tracks, previously available online: „Touched by the Gods“ is a Sabbath-Style Song, written by A. Troiano in memory of  the great Ronnie James Dio; and „Sings of the End“, a very chatchy song, that got featured on the Heavy Metal Nation CD Sampler, that presents the best Swiss Bands every Year.
„Utopian Void“ shows power and strenght, Drama and Passion with unusual and memorable Songs, a great Album by a hard rocking band ! We invite you to get into the groove!
THE PAST WILL NEVER LET YOU GO !!!


TRACKLIST:
1. A Day Of Darkness
2. Sceptre
3. On The Edge
4. Faces
5. Kingdom Of Shadows
6. Helpless
7. Guided By The Stars
8. Breath – The Spell
9. The Illusion
10. The Hell Of Verdun
11. Signs Of The End
12. Touched By the Gods
Total Playing Time: 59:53min

LINE-UP:
Jvo “JayJay” Julmy - Vocals
Adriano Troiano – Bass & Keyboards
Christof Schafer –Guitars
Alain Curty– Guitars
Jan “The Onion” Zwiebel – Drums
Guests:
Al Spicher - Drums
Andy Bächler - Drums
Cornelia “Connus” Curty – Violin
Luti - Guitar Solo

Thursday, December 19, 2013

AMON: "Liar in Wait" Vinyl Edition Coming Next Month on FDA Rekotz

FDA Rekotz has announced the vinyl publication of Liar in Wait, the 2012 full-length from Floridian death metal beast AMON.   

AMON formed in 1987 in Tampa, Florida, before changing their name to DEICIDE and pioneering the American death metal movement. After their highly-publicized departure from DEICIDE, brothers Eric and Brian Hoffman resurrected AMON to spread the unholy plague all over the world.  

Liar In Wait contains nine bone-crushing songs, recorded at Red Room Recorders with Mark Prator and will be released in Europe with an new and exclusive artwork, created by Misanthropic Artwork, with the layout done by ArtWars Mediadesign. The European edition is limited to 200 gold/black marbled copies and 400 Satanic black copies. Package deals that include the new AMON t-shirt are being offered as well. FDA Rekotz will unleash this beast on January 31.  


Pre-orders are now available at www.fda-rekotz.com


BOMBS OF HADES To Release Compilation Album Featuring Classic and New Material on Pulverised Records

Swedish death-crust metallers BOMBS OF HADES shall unleash a compilation album featuring an assortment of oddities recorded throughout the band's decade-long career. Titled Through the Dark Past, the disc is set release on January 27 on Pulverised Records.
In addition to 19 completely remastered BOMBS OF HADES' ragers, Through The Dark Past features four brand new tracks recorded exclusively for this release.


Archiving from the Carnivores 7-inch vinyl EP up to the No Life 10-inch vinyl split with Sweden's Mordbrand, this is the indeed the most exhaustive BOMBS OF HADES compilation to date. Both vinyl and non-vinyl collectors will appreciate this all-inclusive deluxe package, complete with singles, cover songs, bonus track and tracks from the band's EPs and splits.  Filed under: BOMBS OF HADES essential!  

1) Necronomicus Kanth (The Hounds Of Hell)
2) Twisted Decay
3) Slaughter The Dead
4) Disrespect Their Bones
5) Coffin
6) Carnivores
7) Prolog (The Ecstacy Of Blood)
8) Into The Eternal Pit Of Fire
9) The Day Man Lost *
10) Confessor
11) Ice Cold Grave
12) Clean Your Head *
13) Until Death (Hanged By The Neck)
14) Inside Teradome
15) Burn
16) I'll Be Your Sister *
17) Mangled Dehumanization *
18) Crossturner
19) Evil Dead *
20) Kill! Kill! Kill!
21) Epilog


PLEONEXIA "Break All Chains" - Debut release date: 17th January 2014


From our friends at Pure Steel...

The release date of the PLEONEXIA album "Break All Chains" is January 17th, 2014. The preorder phase will start on January 3rd, 2014 in our webshop.

We are proud to present a brand-new band on our sub-label Pure Underground Records, PLEONEXIA, which was founded in Turin/Italy in 2012. The sextet describes their music as “philosophical metal”; but you could also say that it is an interesting and fascinating mixture of classic Heavy Metal, some epic influences and a small dose of earthy, honest Hard Rock.
The ten songs on the debut album “Break All Chains” all convince with discreet keyboard/synthesizer passages, clear but powerful vocals by frontman Michele Da Pila, virtuosic, partly double guitar leads and a precise drumming, without sounding in the least dull or uninspired. Sing-along-compatible, sometimes almost anthem-like choruses, a driving double bass and some slightly progressive or quieter parts can all be found on this album.

“Break All Chains” really holds the promise of its name. This long-player features lots of delightful elements of traditional Heavy Metal as a matter of course!


TRACKLIST:
1. Pleonexia
2. I Don’t Care
3. Iron Will
4. Everything You Said
5. All Dead To Me
6. Use Your Mind
7. Break All Chains
8. We’re Not The Same
9. Freigeist
10. We Just Want More
Total Playing Time: 46:53 min

LINE-UP:
Michele Da Pila - vocals, guitars, keyboard
Federico Fondrini - guitars, backing vocals
Leonardo Manoiero - guitars, backing vocals
Davide Arneri - bass/backing vocals
Lorenzo Luca – keyboards
Stefano Clara - drums/backing vocals

OL DRAKE SIGNS WORLDWIDE DEAL WITH EARACHE RECORDS


Earache Records is proud to announce the signing of British guitar virtuoso OL DRAKE to a multi-album, worldwide recording deal.

OL DRAKE is currently working on his debut solo album, which is due to be released in 2014 under the project name of OLD RAKE and is set to include a number of guest musicians.

OL DRAKE comments:

"Very excited to announce signing a solo deal with Earache Records.  I established a great friendship with the guys at Earache over the years while I was with Evile and I was happy to hear they wanted to work with me in a solo capacity.  This will be a studio project entitled 'Old Rake'.  I won't be touring, and I'm thankful to Earache for being understanding of this and for giving me this opportunity; I wouldn't rule out doing a few clinics here and there though.

"I've always been inspired by Steve Vai, and I've always wanted to do something in a similar approach orientated around metal with injections of other styles and ideas which interest me.  After recently seeing the film 'Not Dead Yet' about the amazing and inspiring genius, Jason Becker, it really kicked me into gear to do something with my playing; music is all I can really do, so I'm thankful for the opportunity and ability to still create music for people to hear.  Looking forward to getting the music out there!"

OL DRAKE made his name as lead guitarist for Huddersfield thrashers EVILE, during which time the band released four critically-acclaimed albums, scored a top 10 album in the UK Rock charts, toured around the world with such high-profile bands as MEGADETH, and won numerous accolades including a prestigious Metal Hammer Golden God award.

In 2010, OL DRAKE was asked to join Australian comedian/musician TIM MINCHIN on stage at the UK's Sonisphere Festival to help perform his track, "Rock N Roll Nerd", and in 2012 was nominated in the "Dimebag Darrell Shredder" Award at the Metal Hammer Golden Gods, alongside the likes of DEVIN TOWNSEND and FEAR FACTORY's DINO CAZARES.


Get more news and info from OLD RAKE at:

Official site - http://www.oldrake.co.uk
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/theoldrake
Twitter - http://twitter.com/old_rake

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

VESTAL CLARET signs with Cruz Del Sur Music

Cruz Del Sur Music is proud to announce another prestigious addition to its roster, occult metal unit VESTAL CLARET!

One of the most mysterious and intriguing bands to appear from the American underground in the last few years, VESTAL CLARET is the creation of Simon Tuozzoli and  Phil Swanson (SEAMOUNT / HOUR OF 13 fame), and play a killer mixture of doom and  heavy metal riffage with a definite penchant for the morbid and sick atmospheres. Are you ready for the ritual to begin? You better go sharpen your krises!


The band's first release with Cruz Del Sur Music, The Cult of the Vestal Claret, is the follow up to their 2011 debut, Bloodbath and will see the light of day in April 2014. The album will be available on CD, digital and vinyl formats.  


Focus on Metal 159 with Queensrÿche's Michael Wilton is now available

Episode 159 - The Rÿche Stuff


This week we sit down for a long overdue talk with Queensrÿche founder and guitarist Michael Wilton in addition Richie and I also have a bit of a discussion on the current state of the Rÿche.

Grab it now from the Focus on Metal SiteThe Cast Iron Ring or on iTunes

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

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Review - Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock - Bridge The Gap (inakustik 2013)

Two words describe "Bridge The Gap" the latest from Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock, baffling and brilliant.

Schenker has assembled a stellar cast of characters for this release. This lineup is incredible and I would hope that they will continue to record together. On vocals is once again Doogie White. The very in demand Wayne Findlay handles the 7 sting guitar and all the keyboards. Then there's the characters in the rhythm section Scorps alumni Herman Rarebell and Francis Bucholz. These guys really seem to work well together and in the case of Herman I think it's brought out some of the best playing I've heard from him in years. There's a lot of history with these guys both personal and musical and it comes through in the songs. If you like classic Scorps or Rainbow you'll be very happy with this one.

Let's peel back the jewel case and have a listen.
Right off the bat I have a major MSG moment. The opener "Neptune Rising" took me right back to "Into The Arena". It's not so much the music but the Teutonic feel that comes through. That segues nicely into "Where the Wild Winds Blow". This is where you need to buy the album. Buying singles or listening to bits and pieces robs you of experiences like this. These first two tracks taken together are classic Schenker and are perhaps the most "metal" stuff on here. This is also where the brilliant and baffling comes in. First there's the solo. Only Schenker could pull off an acoustic solo in a metal track like this and make it sound seamless and perfect. If you have any of his Thank You release you will appreciate this solo. If you aren't familiar with those releases, buy them! The second baffling part is that the remainder of the album sounds nothing like what you've heard so far. It's good and if you grew up on early hard rock and the beginnings of metal like I did the rest of the disc will still provide you with a shit ton of enjoyment. This is my top track on here.

Track 3 is "Horizons". The riff is very reminiscent of "We all Fall Down" by Blue Murder. Combine that with the overall feel of Rainbow and you get the picture. Of note is the great bass drum pattern from Herman. At first it sounds simple but he's doing a very cool beat on that bass drum. Schenker's solo on here really captures a great Blackmore vibe.

Next up is "Lord of the Lost and Lonely". Some nice fuzz bass from Bucholz on this one. It's the song where he's the most apparent. Lyrics harken back to something from Dio. Doogie really channels that spirit on this track.
That moves us onto "Rock and Roll Symphony". Very Deep Purpleish. Mostly due to Hammond but also Doogie really gets a great Ian Gillan vibe going on this one. This one is a great driving song and you'll want to listen to it again and again.

"To Live For the King" is a bit heavier than the previous three tracks but it still sits in that classic hard rock/metal vein. Very much something that would belong on Rainbow Rising.

Sometimes it's a curse to have listened to so much music and have it all rolling around in your brain. "Land of Thunder" brings one of those moments out. It kicks in and right away screams early Whitesnake. I'm talking pre 87 when most of America had no clue who they were. That started with the first vocal hmm that Doogie throws out in the first 5 seconds. It sounds like one of those Snake songs where the spirit of Purple's Burn was mixing with some blues. Then there's the the vocal hook. Every time I hear it I start wanting to sing the vocal hook from Priest's Exciter. At this point I start realizing there's a fair bit of the gallop from Exciter in here too. Well for me that adds up to a damn cool tune. One of my favorite tracks on the disc.

Doogie really shines on "Temple of The Holy". It's a very straightforward tune with a a nice snaky riff underneath and some tasty bass and drum grooving. Schenker does some soloing on this one. It's one of those songs where here he can riff on top of everything else and it sounds perfect. The first solo is short but then he comes back again and just riffs out for the rest of the song.
It's obvious that they put some thought into the track order. The next track "Shine On" has a similar dirge like tempo. Once again Doogie shows why he deserves some top vocal honors. As great as he sounds I would have loved to hear what the late great Ronnie James Dio would have sounded like on this one.

Nine tracks down and not a bad one in the bunch. Track 10 "Bridges We Have Burned" is not gonna break that streak.The tempo starts to pick up again and yet in a very clever turn this approaches a ballad. In a lesser bands hands this would have been turned into some horrible ballady pablum but in these capable hands we get a nicely powerful mid tempo rocker. Only coplaint I have on this one is that it sounds like Schenker's solo just gets cut off and it picks up later. Almost like he cut it in one take and then they chopped it into two sections.

Then there's track 11 "Because You Lied". On the first few listens I hated this tune. Yeah i said it. Then something weird happened. I listened to this disc A LOT. Suddenly I just started to appreciate the simple awesome groove on this one. I initially thought it was just some cheap throwaway filler but gradually it really began to grow on me. It may be that I started to here a certain Zep like element in there. Kinda weird but hey that's why ya gotta listen to stuff more than once. Did I mention I listened to this disc A LOT.

"Black Moon Rising" follows and it's got a certain odd eighties keyboard element in there that I would expect on a Robert Plant solo disc but vocally it's great and Schenker plays his ass off in the middle section. There's also some nice interplay between Bucholz and Rarebell that holds it all together.

Last up is "Dance For The Piper". I could see them doing this for an encore, One it has a very live feel. but also Doogie really pushes the higher range of his voice on here. Very much how you would save that vocal buster for the end of the set. This one also has in my opinion the most Schenker like solo on the disc.

So what the total on this one? Well first off I have to say that I've been a Schenker fan for a long time. There was a time when Schenker was the secret of those who were in the know. There's plenty of bands that were formed around a shared interest in Schenker and those who didn't know where not in the band for long. For those who have always been into Schenker I think this one is a must have. It's also a must have for those of us who where into all those early Scorpions albums especially Lovedrive.
For those who were into Purple or Rainbow again this one will satisfy that craving. I could continue like this but I'll make it easy if you only like extreme metal with cookie vocals then you'll probably want to take a pass on this. Otherwise it's real simple..Schenker.

If that's not enough it Schenker reunited with Rarebell and Bucholz. Still not enough? Doogie White at 53 stills sounds freaking incredible and Schenker had the good sense to bring in a killer wingman with Wayne Findlay. I said it at the beginning I hope that this is a unit that will continue to put out more great stuff. I love my thrash and power metal but I also really enjoy the groove and pure brilliance of stuff like this.

BARISHI: Vermont Progressive Metallers Release Self-Titled Debut Album

Vermont's BARISHI have just released a self-titled progressive metal tour de force that belies conventional thought for a debut album. Heaviness, eclecticism, and inventive melody are just a few of the descriptors one could use to begin dissecting this dynamic package of passion and creavity. The saxophone heard on "Sky Burial" and "Holy Mountain" is but one of the pleasant surprises in an album full of them. Barishi was recorded, mixed, and co-produced by the band and Brian Westbrook at PDP Recording, with mastering done by Nick Dragoni at M-Works Mastering Studio. This is one album you simply must experience.


Barishi is available for streaming and purchase at barishi.bandcamp.com.


Sky Burial
Holy Mountain
The Rider
Exhibiche
Through Mountains, Through Plains
The Waves
A Place that Swallows All Rivers
Jaguar Scarification Ritual