Just posted: Joel McIver is our guest on this weeks Focus on Metal

Episode 264 - McIver Alive V

Joel McIver helps us wrap up 2015 by making his fifth appearance on Focus on Metal. Joel chimes in on his thoughts on the year in metal and also lets us know what's going on in the land of McIver. Find out what he's up to at http://www.joelmciver.co.uk/ Besides his fine books Joel is also a driving force behind Bass Guitar magazine which you can find on the web at bassguitarmagazine.com

I'm sure that even Joel would agree that the single biggest impact of 2015 is the recent death of the legendary Lemmy. It's a massive blow to music, metal and the next generation of bass players that will never get to see (and feel) how bass can truly drive the bus.

Big thanks to all of you for a great 2015 and we look forward to a most metal 2016. No new show next week but we'll be embarking on the 2016 edition of Focus on Metal the week after with a massive music episode.

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

You can hear us Tuesdays on Platinum Rock Radio and be sure to check their schedule because we usually get a repeat run during the week.

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

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

Focus on Metal is damn proud to be part of The Blast Syndicate. You can get this show as well as many other kick ass metal podcasts by clicking the link below.

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

Online now: James Kottak Is The Guest On This Weeks Focus on Metal

Episode 263 - Little Mountain Sound Part 6

So much for wrapping up this project this in 2016. But speaking of wrapping, just in time for the holidays we bring you the sixth installment on Little Mountain Sound featuring none other than our bud James Kottak. We actually did this interview back in August of 2014 and was one of the first we did for the project, so if some of the things James talks about sound dated that would be why. Find out what James is up to these days (besides the mighty Scorpions) at http://www.jameskottak.com/

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

You can hear us Tuesdays on Platinum Rock Radio and be sure to check their schedule because we usually get a repeat run during the week.

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

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

Focus on Metal is damn proud to be part of The Blast Syndicate. You can get this show as well as many other kick ass metal podcasts by clicking the link below.

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

THE RODS re-record CRANK IT UP single for 35th Anniversary of self titled album.

Veteran New York heavy metal power trio THE RODS have re-recorded the song "Crank It Up" which originally appeared on their 1981 self titled album, as part of the album's upcoming 35th Anniversary celebration.

The re-recorded song is available for purchase via itunes, Amazon and CD Baby.

Guitarist David "Rock" Feinstein has checked in with the following comment:

"CRANK IT UP", what more is there to say? It's kind of been our "motto" since day one. Thirty-five years later, we are still slamming our audiences with great powerful music. It's amazing to see all the different generations singing along to this classic RODS "Anthem". Call it "Rock n' Roll", or call it "Heavy Metal", it's meant to be played loud with a passion, and that't what we have done for thirty-five years.

Drummer / producer Carl Canedy has checked in with the following comment:

We felt re-recording our very first single, "Crank it Up", would be a fitting way to commemorate our 35 years together. Originally we'd pressed a few hundred 45's and sent them off to radio stations and record companies without much hope of getting any response. I'll never forget how thrilled I was when I contacted the DJ at a Rochester, NY radio station, asking if he'd received our song and what he thought of it. His response was, "Yeah, we received it, and Crank it Up sounds great on air!". I was floored. It was the first time we'd received any recognition for our music. 35 years later I still love playing the song and the fans still seem to love hearing it.

Bassist Garry Bordonaro has checked in with the following comment:

Re-recording The Rods most recognized early release seemed like an obvious way to celebrate having survived 35 years, almost a miracle! We wanted to show that we still have the same energy and dedication to our fans we had in the beginning. They deserve it after the faith they have shown in us!

The Rods early years saw them open up for Judas Priest, Motorhead, Krokus, Ozzy Osbourne, Rainbow, Foghat, as well as playing alonside Virgin Steele, Exciter, Def Leppard, a rising new band called Metallica and tapped by Iron Maiden to open up their legendary "The Number of the Beast" UK tour".

Upcoming The Rods shows:

4/22-23, 2016 - Keep It True XIX festival - Lauda-Königshofen, Germany
4/29-30, 2016 - Very 'Eavy festival - Stadskanaal, Holland

For the latest The Rods news and show dates, visit the following sites:

Official The Rods website

Official The Rods Facebook page

VEKTOR announce 2016 European festival appearances

Philadelphia-based sci-fi thrashers VEKTOR have confirmed a number of European festival appearances for 2016.

The band, who have just completed their first ever European tour, will release their eagerly-anticipated new album 'Terminal Redux' on March 11th, with the first confirmations for VEKTOR's 2016 European festival run including Into the Grave (NL), Metal Mean (BE), Motocultor (FR), and Brutal Assault (CZ).

VEKTOR vocalist/guitarist David DiSanto comments:

"On the heels of a completely badass European tour - our first one - we're booking a whole bunch of festivals for next summer.  This tour has been better than we could have ever expected; it's looking like it's going to get even bigger and better.  We're coming back - look out for us in August, Europe!"

Listen to a brand new song, "Ultimate Artificer", at http://youtu.be/WNmHtWERWyw

Don't miss VEKTOR on tour:

Aug. 10 - Josefov, Czech Republic - Brutal Assault Festival
Aug. 12 - Leeuwarden, Netherlands - Into the Grave Festival
Aug. 20 - Méan, Belgium - Metal Mean Festival
Aug. 21 - Saint-Nolff, France - Motocultor Festival

View the flyer at http://bit.ly/1m0P3NQ

To coincide with VEKTOR's current European tour, the band's first two albums, 'Black Future' and 'Outer Isolation', have been re-released on vinyl.  Order yours now in Europe at http://webstore.earache.com/vektor or in the USA at http://uswebstore.earache.com/vektor

Both albums are also available on iTunes at http://apple.co/1Nfg4IF

Get more VEKTOR news and info:

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/VektorOfficial
Twitter - http://twitter.com/vektormetal

Fates Warning teams up with Sheet Happens Publishing to offer fans guitar transcription of classic album, 'A Pleasant Shade Of Gray'

Progressive metal legends Fates Warning recently released a 3-CD+DVD expanded edition of their critically acclaimed 1997 classic, A Pleasant Shade of Gray, via Metal Blade Records. Today, the band is offering fans a guitar transcription of the album, in conjunction with Sheet Happens Publishing. To purchase the digital guitar-book, please visit: http://www.sheethappenspublishing.com/product-541/fates-warning-a-pleasant-shade-of-gray-digital-guitarbook 

A Pleasant Shade of Gray is a single song that is divided into twelve tracks. The album is notable for its darker mood and mixture of progressive rock and metal with hints of industrial, classical, and psychedelia. The all encompassing and expansive re-issue of A Pleasant Shade of Gray includes: 

--CD 1: the original album

--CD 2: a live version of the album recorded during the band's 1998 European tour, as well as a sound check recording of "We Only Say Goodbye" and a studio cover version of The Scorpions' "In Trance"

--CD 3: demos from the pre-production and writing sessions for A Pleasant Shade of Gray

--DVD: two complete live performances of A Pleasant Shade of Gray: the first being a restored and re-edited version of the band's 1997 VHS release; the second being a show filmed at The Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood, CA in 1998 

To preview and purchase A Pleasant Shade of Gray, please visit: http://www.metalblade.com/fateswarning 

Fates Warning online:

http://www.fateswarning.com

http://www.facebook.com/FatesWarning

https://twitter.com/fateswarning 

AXE CRAZY "Angry Machines" – Limited Vinyl Edition - release date: February 26th

The release date of the AXE CRAZY album „Angry Machines“ on limited vinyl is February 26th, 2016. The pre-order phase will start on February 12th, 2016 in the webshop. Limited to 200 vinyl copies Pure Steel will re-release the AXE CRAZY debut EP „Angry Machines“ (2014) through Pure Underground Records. Like the name – borrowed by the self titled single of Jaguar from 1982 – already suggests, the quintet from Poland has committed themselves to the spirit of the glorious, early days of NWoBHM. On four songs, they enlarge the Metal underground with majestic twin guitar leads, rapid, but tight doublebass drumming and melodic, powerful high pitched vocals. References like the eponyms, early Maiden stuff and a decent dose of early US Metal always can be perceived. But still, AXE CRAZY sent up an adolescent briskness, that can’t be found very often nowadays. Traditional, stainless steel at its best: With AXE CRAZY no frequenter of festivals like Keep It True and Headbangers Open Air will be disappointed. TRACKLISTING Side A 1. Angry Machines 2. Hungry For Life Side B 3. Sabretooth Tiger 4. Running Out Of Time Total Playing Time: 17:26 min LINE-UP Michael Skotnicki – vocals Adrian Bigos – guitars, backing vocals Robson Bigos – guitars, backing vocals Kamil Pie?ciuk – bass Andrzej Heczko – drums AXE CRAZY @ PURE UNDERGROUND RECORDS  „Angry Machines“ @ PURE UNDERGROUND RECORDS www.facebook.com/axecrazyband

Hail of Bullets announces David Ingram (ex-Bolt Thrower/Benediction) as vocalist for Maryland Deathfest

As previously reported, Hail of Bullets and front-man Martin van Drunen have parted ways; today, the band has announced David Ingram (ex-Bolt Thrower/Benediction) as his live replacement for Maryland Deathfest on May 28th in Baltimore, USA - the only confirmed Hail of Bullets show for 2016! For more information about the festival, please visit: http://www.marylanddeathfest.com 

Set to begin writing the follow-up to 2013's III: The Rommel Chronicles next year, Hail of Bullets has unleashed three full-lengths of war-inspired, death metal since their inception in 2006. Fans can expect another full attack from the Dutch troop on their upcoming record, at MDF, and beyond! 

To preview and purchase III: The Rommel Chronicles, head over to: http://www.metalblade.com/hailofbullets 

Hail of Bullets online:

http://www.hailofbullets.com

https://www.facebook.com/hailofbulletsofficial

https://www.youtube.com/user/hailz666

https://twitter.com/hailofbulletsDM

Metal Blade Records re-signs worldwide deal with Chilean thrashers Criminal

Metal Blade Records is proud to welcome back Criminal to its worldwide roster! Having released four albums in the past via Metal Blade, Criminal is now preparing their return to the Blade with a major Chilean thrash attack to drop in March 2016! 

Front-man Anton Reisenegger comments: "Re-signing to Metal Blade feels like coming home to me. I've had a very close relationship to the label from when they sent me vinyl promos for my fanzine in the eighties, to when they offered us to release our second album in the US and Europe in the nineties, to when I worked for them myself in the 00s. I'm very good friends with all of their staff, so I'm really happy they asked us to come back, and I am proud to say we are coming back with one of our best records to-date!" 

More details about Criminal's upcoming album will be revealed soon, but in the meantime, Anton has given fans a preview of what to expect: "The new album sounds really pissed off and aggressive. Angry old men who don't give a fuck any more. We have come to terms with the fact we're not going to be the next Slayer, but we keep doing this because we love making music together and I think we have something important to say in a time when image on the one hand and technique on the other seem to be more important than the riff. To us, it's all about the riff!" 

Criminal lineup:

Anton Reisenegger - vocals/guitars

Sergio Klein - guitars

Dan Biggin - bass

Zac O' Neil - drums 

Criminal online:

https://www.facebook.com/Criminal.Band

http://www.criminal1.com/home

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

Just posted, Like A Storm axe slinger Matt Brooks on this weeks Focus on Metal

Episode 262 - Like A Storm

This week our guest is guitarist Matt Brooks from the band of brothers known as Like A Storm. Hailing from New Zealand these guys have forged an impressive little empire for themselves. They recently released their sophomore effort "Awaken The Fire" via Another Century Records. The band is currently on their Didgeridoo Destruction Tour and Matt called in from the road before their show in Kansas City at the Riot Room. Find out more about the band at http://www.likeastorm.com/ and while you are there be sure to peruse their very comprehensive selection of merch.

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

You can hear us Tuesdays on Platinum Rock Radio and be sure to check their schedule because we usually get a repeat run during the week.

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

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

Focus on Metal is damn proud to be part of The Blast Syndicate. You can get this show as well as many other kick ass metal podcasts by clicking the link below.

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

DEATH DEALER GETS IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH "WE THREE KINGS" + FREE DOWNLOAD

Death Dealer are out to prove that heavy metal and the holidays can indeed merrily coexist, with a cover of the old-time Christmas carol, "We Three Kings." A video has been filmed for the song (which is a "stand-alone track," as it does not appear on the group's latest album, 'Hallowed Ground'), made by noted European filmmakers Village Road Film. 

The video can be viewed via this link: https://youtu.be/74vtllYwKks

Death Dealer's guitarist, Stu Marshall, was responsible for orchestration and producing the song, while the tune showcases the strength and pure magic of vocalist Sean Peck. The video also expresses the band's wishes for peace on earth especially in light of world activities lately.

Sean Peck said, "Christmas is a very important and meaningful time for me. I have always loved singing the songs that go with the holiday season since I was a kid. If I was not in a band, I would probably be dressed up in a full-on caroling costume, and be going house to house, singing in a group to strangers in the neighborhood. This killer video and song is the next best thing!" 

“‘We Three Kings' is an absolute triumph of a Christmas tale to enjoy for the holiday season!” adds the group's leader/guitarist, Ross The Boss.

The release of "We Three Kings" comes hot on the heels of the group's aforementioned sophomore album, 'Hallowed Ground' (to order, click here http://tinyurl.com/prmq8wp). Featuring members that have previously played with the likes of Manowar, the Dictators, Rob Halford, Lizzy Borden, Denner/Shermann and Cage, Death Dealer are a true heavy metal force to be reckoned with. And "We Three Kings" shows a whole new side to one of metal's heaviest acts.

Death Dealer is in the holiday spirit bringing you their metal take on "We Three Kings"!  download the song for FREE!

https://soundcloud.com/sweden-music-group-smg/death-dealer-we-three-kings

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

deathdealer.co

facebook.com/deathdealerband

http://swedenmusicgroup.com

facebook.com/swedenmusicgroup

LORDS OF THE TRIDENT launch Patreon crowd soucing campaign / Announce Re:Quests EP

After a successful opening slot as special guests of Steel Panther in their hometown of Madison, Wisconsin, metal conquistadors LORDS OF THE TRIDENT are celebrating by launching their brand new Patreon pledge campaign!

Lords of the Trident vocalist Fang VonWrathenstein has checked in with the following metal news flash:

As many of you know, the music industry has changed drastically over the past 15 years. Gone are the days of gold-plated-shark-tank-bars and artists actually making a living after signing a record deal. A Patreon campaign seeks to change that situation by cutting out the middle man – the record company – entirely.

Fans of the band pledge a monthly donation, and in return, get awesome Patreon-only rewards! What kind of rewards, you may ask? All SORTS of cool stuff, including Patreon-exclusive shirts, behind-the-scenes content, and a invite to a yearly Patreon-backer-only private concert!

And if you pledge the $5 level or more before 12/25, you’ll get a FREE MP3 copy of our latest EP: re:Quests, the Kickstarter Covers EP!

This EP will be released on Christmas Day, but if you want to hear it before the release date, pledge to our Patreon and you’ll receive it right away!

We want to stress that this is optional – pledge or not, we’re still going to continue to make the most metal music you’ve ever heard. But if you want to help us take Lords to the next level – more music, more videos, more everything – please consider donating to our campaign.

Thank you!! Whether or not you choose to pledge, we want to thank all of you for supporting us over the past seven years. It’s amazing fans like you that keep the Lords going – THANK YOU!

Lords of the Trident Patreon pledge campaign link

Lords of the Trident Patreon video link

Upcoming Lords of the Trident battles:

12/12/15 - Wisconsin Brewing Company - Madison, Wisconsin
1/2/16 - Mead & Metal Fest (High Noon Saloon) - Madison, Wisconsin
1/22/16 - TBA - Indianapolis, Indiana
1/23/16 - Powerfest V (Madison Theatre) - Covington, Kentucky
2/19/16 - The Elbo Room - Chicago, Illinois
3/18/16 - The Frequency - Madison, Wisconsin
3/19/16 - Izzy's - Berlin, Wisconsin

Official Lords of the Trident website

Official Lords of the Trident Facebook page

NWOBHM Trail Blazers SAVAGE Release Double Studio/Live Album '7'

NWOBHM trailblazers SAVAGE have released a new studio album 7 on Minus 2 Zebra. Included with the double-album is a live performance disc titled Live N Lethal.  7 features 12 blistering new tracks, which mix old with new. Many of the tracks are fast paced and hark back to the early days whilst tracks such as "Superspy' and Empire Of Hate' sound akin to something off a modern OZZY album or even METALLICA at their best!

Live N Lethal features 13 live tracks. Included is the entirety of classic 1983 debut album Loose N Lethal, which is given a fresh treatment in the form of a recently recorded gig in the band's hometown of Mansfield (UK). The Loose n Lethal album is delivered at a furious pace, along with a few choice tracks from the band's back catalogue. 

SAVAGE, once credited for influencing METALLICA to play fast, the band has a strong history starting out in the 80s. Even though the band has often been linked to the NWOBHM movement, their roots are more in the vintage classic rock with a modern feel. Influences such as THIN LIZZY and DEEP PURPLE abound and yet with new material they sound incredibly contemporary and fresh. Their debut album, Loose n Lethal became a classic and was the biggest selling independent import in to USA in its day. The band have had a stop-start career but came back with a vengeance in 2012 with the epic Sons Of Malice. The band has been busy ever since on the live scene in the UK and Europe and most recently an Italian tour earlier this summer.

Fun Fact: The song "Let it Loose" was covered by METALLICA on their first demo Hit the Lights.

"Savage sound as vibrant as ever. Its 10 tracks hearken back to the band's early roots while also capturing a contemporary sound."

- Brave Words

"7/Live n Lethal is a fantastic combination of the band's classic era and its modern age sound in one signature set."

 - Metalholic

"Continuing a rennasiance that began about 20 years ago, England's Savage keep their New Wave of British Heavy Metal rumbling along."

 - Dangerdog Music Reviews

"Why Savage aren't big players on today's music scene is beyond me."

 - Get Your Rock Out

Disc 1: 7 

1. I Am The Law

2. Lock N Load

3. Empire Of Hate

4. Super Spy

5. Circus Of Fools

6. Crazy Horse

7. Speed Freak

8. The Road To Avalon (Sins Of The Fathers)

9. Children Of The Night

10. Payback's A Bitch

11. Shake The Tree

12. Heads Will Roll

Disc 2: Live N Lethal 

1. A Prelude To Rage

2. The Rage Within

3. Black 'n' Blue

4. White Hot

5. The China Run

6. On The Rocks

7. Aint No Fit Place

8. Dirt Money

9. Berlin

10. Cry Wolf

11. Let It Loose

12. Smilling Assassin

13. We Got The Edge

 http://www.savageband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/savageuk

Twitter.com/savagebanduk

www.youtube.com/user/savagemusicuk

KILMARA Announces 'Daniel Ponce' As New Singer

Spanish heavy metallers KILMARA has parted ways with singer "Christian Wolfgang Kohl" and has replaced him with North American singer "Daniel Ponce".

The break with singer "Christian Wolfgang Kohl" has been done in a friendly manner, the rest of the band members intend on continuing to forge, maintain and increase the status that they have worked so hard in building these past 15 years with KILMARA.

The band is confident that they have chosen well, and they are sure that Daniel Ponce is the right candidate with whom they will be able to reach new goals, new fans worldwide and new horizons!

Daniel Ponce, who has the American nationality, was born in Tampa, Florida from a circus family (he is the fifth generation) and has traveled all his life around the world starting to appear on stage at the early age of 2. It would have been normal for him to have followed his father or his older brother’s steps, and also become a juggler like them, but from a very young age, what he really liked and what motivated him the most was music and singing. Since Daniel became 18 and settled in the south of Barcelona, he began his career as a singer, studying the voice and becoming a part of numerous projects, most of them related to Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, that gave him the opportunity to perform all around the Iberian Peninsula, some points of Europe and even in a few venues at Los Angeles in California.

Now a new chapter begins full of motivation, the best of hopes and of course a lot of work with KILMARA, to whom he is immensely grateful for this opportunity and with whom he will give his absolute best so that they can grow the most possible together and reach the highest goals.

As Daniel says; “The truth is that the try outs to become the singer have been very very hard and I know that there were very talented candidates also trying out for the position… So I really want to thank my band mates of KILMARA for trusting in me and for choosing me. And I want both them and the fans to know, that I will strive to the maximum to keep KILMARA’s name and legacy high where it belongs! Destiny has given me this chance and I don’t intend on letting down!!!”

www.kilmara.com
www.facebook.com/kilmaraofficial

Motor Sister announces intimate Christmas performance in Los Angeles on Dec. 19th; launches live clip from Motorhead Motorboat cruise

Los Angeles hard rock outfit Motor Sister has announced a special hometown performance on December 19th! Set to take place at Molly Malone's, fans are welcome to join the band for a pre-Christmas rock 'n roll bash starting at 9PM. For more event and purchase details, please visit: http://goo.gl/1NO0gz 

Motor Sister released their debut full-length, Ride, earlier this year to critical acclaim. Comprised of a group of musicians whose collective musical pedigrees speak for themselves (Mother Superior's Jim Wilson, Anthrax's Scott Ian, Pearl Aday, Fates Warning/Armored Saint's Joey Vera, and White Zombie/Testament's John Tempesta), the quintet was originally assembled to jam for Scott Ian's 50th birthday party. Thanks to Scott's wife Pearl Aday, who has been working on her solo career with Jim Wilson for years, all it took was a quick phone call and the stage was literally set for Scott's dream gig. "I wanted to cherry-pick a set list of my favorite Mother Superior songs and get these guys together and have the concert at my house," Scott says of the event that eventually led to an album. Since their formation and the release of Ride, Motor Sister has performed at the prestigious Motorhead Motorboat cruise, in addition to other dates across the USA. The band's upcoming Christmas party at Molly Malone's will be a rare, intimate show that fans won't want to miss! 

For a glimpse of Motor Sister's riveting rock n' roll show, a new live clip from the Motorhead Motorboat cruise has been posted online (with more footage coming soon!): https://www.facebook.com/motorsister/videos/538483989656663 

To preview and purchase Ride, please visit: http://www.metalblade.com/motorsister 

"All you really need to know about 'Ride' is that it kicks a massive amount of ass." - Revolver Magazine 

"The retro rock and roll band that you didn't even know you were missing in your life until right now!" - MetalInjection.net 

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

Motor Sister line-up:

Jim Wilson - vocals, guitar

Scott Ian - guitar

Joey Vera - bass

John Tempesta - drums

Pearl Aday - vocals 

Motor Sister online:

https://www.facebook.com/motorsister

https://twitter.com/MotorSister 

Just posted Robin McAuley on This Weeks Focus on Metal

Episode 261 - Robin McAuley

This week our guest is vocalist Robin McAuley robinmcauley.com/ . Most metal fans know Robin from his work with Michael Schenker, but he's done much more besides that and he continues to bring the rock to audiences weekly through his shows with Raiding The Rock Vault raidingtherockvault.com/. Robin also just released a rerecorded version of the MSG single Anytime and it's available on iTunes. We had a great chat with Robin and I think it should be an enjoyable episode for all.

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

You can hear us Tuesdays on Platinum Rock Radio and be sure to check their schedule because we usually get a repeat run during the week.

You can hear us every Wednesday on these great stations:
Pure Rock Radio & Metal World 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.

'We are Twisted F*cking Sister!' The Movie - Cover Artwork Unveiled & European Release Date Announced

The Twisted Sister movie 'We are Twisted F*cking Sister!' a documentary film by Andrew Horn to be released in Europe on January 29, 2016 via MONODUO FILMS. The film, lenght 137 minutes + over 2 hours bonus material will be available on VOD (iTunes & Vimeo on Demand) and as DVD (Amazon Europe and Monoduo Films Shop). The DVD cover and movie trailer can be viewed below.

Twisted Fucking Sister Trailer from Monoduo Films on Vimeo.

'We are Twisted F*cking Sister!' movie trailer: https://vimeo.com/117275694

Featuring: Twisted Sister, Dee Snider, Jay Jay French, Eddie Ojeda, Mark “The Animal” Mendoza, A.J. Pero
Produced by Andrew Horn

How fitting that 2016 marks the release of the documentary film, “We Are Twisted F*cking Sister!” a documentary film by german filmmaker Andrew Horn, which recounts the untold story of Twisted Sister’s beginnings, at the same time that the band mounts their last ever tour, making their final farewell to performing after 40 years. As the band gears up for the big finish, the movie shows how it all began.

Once upon a time, they were the Grand Funk of Glam and the NY Dolls of Metal. Some considered Twisted Sister a joke, others called them the greatest bar band in the world. While the microcosm of Punk/New Wave was taking over NYC in the mid 70s – early 80s, Twisted Sister was battling their way to the top of a vast – and unique to it’s time – suburban, cover-band bar scene that surrounded NYC in a 100 mile radius, yet existed in a parallel universe. Guitarist, Jay Jay French, says, “the history of Twisted is really our 10 years clawing our way through the bar scene. It’s who we are, and it’s why we are, and why we do what we do.”

The film follows the band from their beginnings as a cross-dressing glam band playing 4 shows a night, 6 nights a week in New Jersey bowling alleys and Long Island beach bars, to the suburban mega-clubs of the late 70s/early 80s, to their bust-out appearance on the UK rock TV show, “The Tube”. Through it all, Twisted stood ready to do or die for the sake of “the show”, giving their all to the crowd, and demanding full attention in return. They refused to play the usual bar band role of “human juke box for drunk and horny teens” – you were going to be entertained whether you liked it or not.

They regaled their audiences with comedy rants, dragging them on stage for vomit inducing drinking games, engaging them in fits of disco record smashing and, at their most extreme, whipping them into club-destroying frenzy. The performances were low on style and heavy on the humour and attitude – but behind it all, always smart and full of self-awareness. Spinal Tap may have been clueless but Twisted Sister knew exactly what they were doing!

If you think you know them from their hit songs, the MTV videos and their massive stadium shows, this is the story of how they became that band – full of strange, and often hilarious, twists and turns. It’s about Rock ‘n Roll and the business of Rock ‘n Roll. It’s about perseverance and things blowing up in your face. It’s about finding yourself, finding your audience and doing literally anything, however wild, to connect with them. And even though we know how it ends, the roller coaster ride of getting there is what it’s all about. A mesmerizing, and wickedly funny story of a 10 year odyssey to overnight success.

“A sure-fire crowd pleaser...very, very, very entertaining” – The Hollywood Reporter

“Uproarious and poignant – a tale of excess, egotism and absurdity” – The Independent
www.monoduofilms.com
www.facebook.com/monoduofilms
www.facebook.com/TwistedSisterTheMovie
www.facebook.com/Twisted-Sister-138018010313

Epic Metallers RAVENSIRE Reveal Track List and Cover Art for 'The Cycle Never Ends'

Cruz Del Sur Music has revealed the cover art and track listing for The Cycle Never Ends from Portuguese Epic Metal Heroes RAVENSIRE. The album will be released in North America on February 12. Check out new song "Temple at the End of the World" (the final installment of The White Pillars trilogy) at this location.

Formed in 2010, RAVENSIRE built a strong reputation in the European Underground Metal movement with their two previous albums Iron Will (2012) and We March Forward(2013). Given that RAVENSIRE's sound is genuinely devoted to the likes of OMEN, old MANOWAR, and BROCAS HELM, both albums were highly acclaimed by Epic Metal fans, fueling the band's songwriting on The Cycle Never Ends. The album will be available on CD, vinyl, and digital formats.

From the cover artwork (strongly recalling John Buscema's black and white art for the "Savage Sword of Conan" 70s comic - an appropriate reading to get along with Ravensire's music!)  to each one of the eight songs, The Cycle Never Ends shows the band's reaching maturity through an astonishingly intense performance.  Among more direct  tracks such as the opener "Cromlech Revelations" and "Crosshaven," the album's highlight is definitely the "White Pillars" trilogy, "a monumental epic piece connected to the history of Sintra, famed city not far from Lisbon. At the coastline, archaeologists dig the ruins of a watchtower built in the 16th century. Contemporary manuscripts mention that ancient written stones had been found (Part I, "Eternal Sun"). Under the ruins, they find the remains of a Moorish settlement, once subdued by the invading army of King Sigurd of Norway in the beginning of the 12th century (Part II, "Blood and Gold"). Finally, among the stones of the Moorish walls, the archaeologists find Roman altars and stones belonging to an ancient temple dedicated to the Sun, the Moon and the Ocean (Part III, "Temple at the End of the World").

Definitely recommended for fans of OMEN and old MANOWAR!

Track Listing:

1 - Cromlech Revelations

2 - Crosshaven

3 - Solitary Vagrant

4 - Procession

5 - Trapped in Dreams

6 - White Pillars Trilogy: Part I - Eternal Sun

7 - While Pillars Trilogy: Part II - Blood and Gold

8 - White Pillars Trilogy: Part III - Temple at the End of the World

www.facebook.com/Ravensire

www.cruzdelsurmusic.com

cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com/

www.facebook.com/cruzdelsurmusic

Brimstone Coven reveals details for new album, 'Black Magic'; launches video for title track

On January 29th, West Virginian dark occult rockers Brimstone Coven will release their first full-length album, Black Magic, via Metal Blade Records! Recorded at Andrew D'Cagna's Sacred Sound Studios in Ohio, Black Magic was mostly written over a year period against a backdrop of candles, incense, solitude, and a thick air of ganja. The resulting record boasts gritty, groovy riffs (a la Black Sabbath, Pentagram, Led Zeppelin) with Pink Floydian psychedelic movements, and three-part vocal harmonies reminiscent of the Mamas and Papas, Yes, and The Byrds. For a preview of Black Magic, the video for the album's title track can be viewed at: http://www.metalblade.com/brimstonecoven 

Black Magic can be pre-ordered in various formats now at: http://www.metalblade.com/brimstonecoven. See below for the album's track-listing. 

Black Magic track-listing:

1. Black Magic 

2. Black Unicorn 

3. Beyond the Astral 

4. As We Fall 

5. Upon the Mountain 

6. Slow Death 

7. The Seers 

8. The Plague 

9. Forsaken 

10. The Eldest Tree 

Formed only four short years ago in Wheeling, West Virginia, Brimstone Coven self-released Brimstone Coven and its follow-up II in 2013, before Metal Blade inked a deal and packaged both releases as a single set, entitled Brimstone Coven (2014). Inspired by the Appalachian's darkness and mysticism (such as the Mothman, a winged creature that emerged in the '60s; Screaming Jenny; and the Phantom of Flatwoods), the quartet's heavy rock also pushes the atmospheric envelope when the mood fits. Brimstone Coven explains, "What sets 'Black Magic' apart to me is the genuinely eerie aura it invokes. We strove for a sound that makes you feel like you're wandering through a shroud of mist, unable to see your own hand in front of your face. We want you to feel equally excited and creeped out, letting your imagination run wild and get the best of you." 

Brimstone Coven line-up:

"Big John" Williams - vocals

Corey Roth - guitar

Andrew D'Cagna - bass

Justin Wood - drums 

Brimstone Coven online:

https://www.facebook.com/brimstonecoven 

SUPPRESSIVE FIRE Unleashes New Track of Thrashing Death!

North Carolina Death Thrashers SUPPRESSIVE FIRE have debuted a new song from upcoming album Bedlam. Stream "Ironsights" exclusively at this location, courtesy of Friedhof Magazine.

Pre-orders: http://suppressivefire.bandcamp.com/album/bedlam

SUPPRESSIVE FIRE will release debut album Bedlam on January 14, 2016. The album was mixed and mastered by Joel Grind (TOXIC HOLOCAUST) and features art by Par Olofsson (Exodus, Abysmal Dawn). SUPPRESSIVE FIRE channels the old school fury of bands like KREATOR, EXODUS, DEATH, and SODOM in creating its own brand of scorched-earth devastation. New single "The Hellwraith" is now streaming at this location.

"Suppressive Fire have the chops to be the next big thing in thrash."

- The Killchain

"Bedlam bursts out like the atomic Satan fueled fire it wants to be and for those looking for a rip roaring record it's there for you in 11 full tracks."

 - The Metal Observer

 Track Listing:

1. Ceasefire

2. The Hellwraith

3. Coup d'état

4. Thy Flesh Consumed

5. Bayonet Penetration

6. Nazi Face Melter

7. Pyrophoric Blood

8. Ironsights

9. Crucify the Kings

10. Holy Masochism

11. Bedlam

SUPPRESSIVE FIRE proudly hail from Raleigh, NC, along with greats such as Corrosion of Conformity and Between the Buried and Me. The trio has shared the stage with Toxic Holocaust, Wretched, Genocide Pact, The Hookers, and a slew of other bands and have no plans on slowing down. SUPPRESSIVE FIRE began their all-out attack on the Southeastern metal scene in 2013 and have refused to restrain the assault. Independently releasing Hellwraith (EP) in August 2014 and Covered in Conflict (Split) in 2015, the stage is now set for the unrepentant annihilation that is Bedlam.

www.facebook.com/suppressivefire

https://suppressivefire.bandcamp.com/

DOLL SKIN To Support METAL ALLEGIANCE on West Coast Shows In January 2016

Arizona-based all-female rock quartet DOLL SKIN to support METAL ALLEGIANCE, the all-star metal band consisting of a rotating cast of musicians, including members of MEGADETH, TESTAMENT on FOUR intimate West Coast shows w/ CAGE, to start off 2016. The West Coast run starts in San Diego on January 7, hits Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and wraps up in San Francisco on January 10.

DOLL SKIN recently confirmed for the ShipRocked Cruise 2016. DOLL SKIN will be performing onboard the ShipRocked Cruise, sailing January 18-22, 2016, from Miami to Costa Maya, Mexico. Alongside bands like Five Finger Death Punch, Seether, Halestorm, Hellyeah,Helmet, to name a few: www.ShipRocked.com

Their new EP "In Your Face" was released in North America on October 30 and will be out in Europe due on December 18, physical & digital via EMP Label Group/Cargo Records. “In Your Face” was produced by David Ellefson (MEGADETH) and mixed by Ryan Greene (NOFX, CHEAP TRICK, LITA FORD).

DOLL SKIN just released a music video for "Family Of Strangers", which can be seen here: http://vevo.ly/mckyQz

Due on December 18 in Europe, "In Your Face" features the following tracks:

01. Family Of Strangers
02. Wring Me Out
03. Let's Be Honest
04. Blind
05. So Much Nothing
06. Weatherman (live)

DOLL SKIN Tour Dates:

December 11, 2015 | Doll Skin @ Last Exit Live (Phoenix, AZ, USA)
January 07 | Ramona Main Stage - San Diego, CA | w/ METAL ALLEGIANCE, CAGE
January 08 | Count's Vamp'd - Las Vegas, NV | w/ METAL ALLEGIANCE, CAGE
January 09 | Whisky A Go Go - West Hollywood, CA | w/ METAL ALLEGIANCE, CAGE
January 10 | The Regency - San Francisco, CA | w/ METAL ALLEGIANCE, CAGE
January 18-22, 2016 | Doll Skin @ ShipRocked Cruise, Miami to Costa Maya, Mexico

www.facebook.com/dollskinband
www.dollskinband.com

REVERENCE premier 'Gods Of War' Music Video

American power metal band Reverence, featuring Todd Michael Hall (Riot, Jack Starr’s Burning Starr), Bryan Holland (Tokyo Blade, Arrest), Steve “Doc Killdrums” Wacholz (Savatage, Crimson Glory), Pete Rossi (Overland, Sanxtion), and Michael Massie (Overloaded, Inner Recipe), premieres a new video for the band's new full-length album's title track "Gods Of War".

'Gods Of War' video: https://youtu.be/9U3y6FJ8X_8

Reverence’s second album 'Gods Of War' follows their first release, When Darkness Calls, which was released through Razar Ice Records in 2012

.

Track List:

01. Gods Of War
02. Heart Of Gold
03. Until My Dying Breath
04. Angel In Black
05. Tear Down The Mountain
06. Blood Of Heroes
07. Battle Cry
08. Choices Made
09. Splinter
10. Cleansed By Fire
11. Race To Obscene

The impending power metal assault is coming you way, take cover!

www.facebook.com/Reverencemetal
www.reverencemetal.com

KARA AND THE DAMN BAND release "Shepherd" video.

San Antonio, Texas based melodic hard rock band KARA AND THE DAM BAND have released their new video for the song "Sheperd" which can be viewed at the following link:

Kara and the Dam Band - "Shepherd" video link

Kara and the Dam Band vocalist Kara Stevens has checked in with the following update:

The song "Shepherd" was inspired by my grandmothers passing. "No one really knows what lies beyond this life, yet the mystery and our faith keeps us in wonder and eager to witness something beautiful and my grandmother was very much eager to see her shepherd meet her at the gate and call her name. The making of our music video was very important. After all, I wanted to make it very much like death..... Very mysterious..... having that fear of getting old.....but most importantly the rebirth from death into light."

Kara and the Dam Band guitarist / producer Chad Austin has checked in with the following update:

We are currently working on show dates for 2016 with plans to tour regionally and beyond. Currently we are working on our second album "Power the Engines" and we are very excited!! This album Rocks all the way through and we can't wait for it to be heard. Stay tuned to our website for upcoming tour dates and new music.

Kara and the Dam Band line-up (2015):

Kara Stevens (Lead Vocals)
Chad Austin (Guitars)
Roger Mendez (Lead Guitars)
Steven Vee (Bass)
Scott Pierson (Drums)

Upcoming Kara and the Dam Band show dates:

12/04/15 - The Barn - Victoria, Texas
12/11/15 - Guadalupe River Club - Kerrville, Texas
01/29/16 - Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino - Eagle Pass, Texas

Kara and the Dam Band live promo video)

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

Official Kara and the Dam Band Facebook website

CORNERS OF SANCTUARY release "Driven Snow", A Merry Metal Xmas III - free album download.

To celebrate this holiday season, CORNERS OF SANCTUARY have announced that they have put together a 10 track Holiday album titled "Driven Snow", A Merry Metal Xmas III" which will be available as a free download during the entire month of December.

Corners of Sanctuary - "Driven Snow", A Merry Metal Xmas III" - Free Album Download Link

Corners of Sanctuary guitarist Mick Michaels has checked in with the following comment:

"We are excited to release our new Holiday bum "Driven Snow" for 2015. This album marks the fourth installment of this seasonal release. It is a great mixture of traditional favorites and modern arrangements capturing the metal style of COS. The album includes four all new, all original tracks. Driven Snow will definitely make your merry metal!"

Have a Merry Metal Xmas - COSnROLL!

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

Official Corners of Sanctuary Facebook page:

CRUZ DEL SUR MUSIC to Release SEPTAGON's "Deadhead Syndicate" in February 2016

CRUZ DEL SUR MUSIC will release Deadhead Syndicate, the debut album from German speed/thrash metal band SEPTAGON on Feb 5 (Europe) and Feb 12 (World).

SEPTAGON is the creature of LANFEAR / THEM mastermind Markus "Ulle" Ullrich, who in 2013 met Markus Becker (ATLANTEAN KODEX) with the idea of forming an old-school speed/thrash metal band which had the aggression of Exodus, Slayer and Testament but also the melody and technical appeal of Forbidden, Heathen, Realm, Watchtower.

Expect fast, technical thrash mixed with mid-paced groove and good hooklines! 

The band has posted a lyric video for the song "Unwanted Company" at:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk_PnP59Qx4

Deadhead Syndicate will be released on Compact Disc | Vinyl | Digital. 

Not a mere side-project but a real band, SEPTAGON will make its debut on stage on Jan 31 at Metal Assault Festival (Germany)  with the likes of LIEGE LORD, VENOM INC. and RAM.

SEPTAGON Live:

23.01.2016 - KILLER METAL NIGHT IV, Omega, Erlangen

30.01.2016 - METAL ASSAULT 2016, Posthalle, Würzburg

Deadhead Syndicate Tracklist:

1. Ignite the Apocalypse

2. Revolt Against the Revolution

3. Exit...Gunfire

4. Ripper

5. Septagon Conspiracy

6. Henchman of Darkness

7. Deadhead Syndicate

8. Unwanted Company

9. Secret Silver Panorama Machine

 www.facebook.com/septagonband

www.cruzdelsurmusic.com

DOLL SKIN Confirmed for ShipRocked Cruise 2016

Arizona-based all-female rock quartet DOLL SKIN are confirmed for the ShipRocked Cruise 2016. DOLL SKIN will be performing onboard the ShipRocked Cruise, sailing January 18-22, 2016, from Miami to Costa Maya, Mexico. Alongside bands like Five Finger Death Punch, Seether, Halestorm, Hellyeah, Helmet, to name a few: www.ShipRocked.com

DOLL SKIN just entered the CMJ Loud Rock Chart at #34. Their new EP "In Your Face" was released in North America on October 30 and will be out in Europe due on December 18, physical & digital via EMP Label Group/Cargo Records. “In Your Face” was produced by David Ellefson (MEGADETH) and mixed by Ryan Greene (NOFX, CHEAP TRICK, LITA FORD).

DOLL SKIN recently released a music video for "Family Of Strangers", which can be seen here: http://vevo.ly/mckyQz

Due on December 18 in Europe, "In Your Face" features the following tracks:

01. Family Of Strangers
02. Wring Me Out
03. Let's Be Honest
04. Blind
05. So Much Nothing
06. Weatherman (live)

Formed in Arizona in 2013, DOLL SKIN's members — vocalist Sydney Dolezal (15), guitarist Alex Snowden (16), bassist Nicole Rich (17), and drummer Meghan Herring (19) — met while attending the Scottsdale School of Rock. Meghan made the initial connection when bringing the girls together to compete in Rock Revelation Battle Of The Bands. After catching the attention of Ellefson, who was one of the competition's judges, the band began a sonic assault on the West Coast, playing shows with SOCIAL DISTORTION, GREEN JELLO, D.R.I., SLUNT, and many more, through Arizona, California, and the West Coast.

www.facebook.com/dollskinband
www.dollskinband.com