HEAVY PARADISE, THE PARADISE OF MELODIC ROCK!

Cold Rush - Disclosing the vicious seeds + New Album!

2012-02-02T18:28:00.000+02:00

After 2 years of waiting, the German ELECTRO METAL BAND "COLD RUSH" will release their new digital Maxi CD "Disclosing the vicious seeds" on Saturday, March 17st.

Single "Disclosing the vicious seeds"

1. Daily Crime (Second Edition)
2. White Z

With their new Singer MATTHIAS KUPKA (EMERGENCY GATE), COLD RUSH will be harder, more melodic and catchy. The new full track Album "AmoKKoma" will come soon, you may be curious!

http://www.cold-rush.com/
www.facebook.com/pages/Cold-Rush-Bandseite/278429695553827

Lord Volture - Video Podcast #3 + Tour 2012!

2012-02-02T16:34:00.000+02:00

Dutch heavy metal group LORD VOLTURE present a new podcast. This time the band takes you back to the release party of their latest album Never Cry Wolf on November 11th 2011. Video Podcast #3: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Il3Ka1l5eY0

The album is LORD VOLTURE's sophomore release and features a vocal performance by Sean Peck from US metal band CAGE. In March the band will start touring their home country aspart of the second leg of the album's promotional tour.

The Tour At Your Door 2012 (www.lordvolture.com/NCW/tour.php)

02 Mar 2012 - Zoetermeer, JJ Music House, w/Solarfall
03 Mar 2012 - Ridderkerk, De Gooth, w/Solarfall, Gloria Victis
09 Mar 2012 - Spijkenisse, TexMex, w/Solarfall
11 Mar 2012 - Leeuwarden, Gloppe/Real Steel Alliance, w/Blaze Bayley (UK), Methusalem
27 Mar 2012 - Amsterdam Paradiso, w/Red Eyes, Exile
31 Mar 2012 - Waalwijk, Tavenu, w/Sweet Vendetta, Context
07 Apr 2012 - Kerkrade, The Rock Temple, w/Picture
28 Apr 2012 - Tilburg, Little Devil, w/Blaze Bayley (UK), Solarfall
13 May 2012 - Emmen, Blanco/Emmen Metal Fest, w/Autmn, Woslom (BR)
19 May 2012 - Pijnacker, De Trucker, w/Solarfall, Conorach
14 Aug 2012 - Utrecht, Biton Open Air, t.b.a.

http://www.lordvolture.com/
www.facebook.com/lordvolture
www.myspace.com/lordvolture
http://www.rockngrowl.com/

Fatal Smile, Sweden's self-proclaimed 'hardest working band' is back and ready to release '21st Century Freaks' on April 27th.

2012-02-02T07:39:00.000+02:00

Fatal Smile, Sweden's self-proclaimed 'hardest working band' is back and ready to release '21st Century Freaks' on April 27th.

After 350 shows worldwide during their "World Domination Tour", touring with bands like Dio, W.A.S.P., Queensryche, Doro and Lordi, to follow up the recent success of their album 'World Domination' (mixed by legendary Michael Wagener -- famous for his work with bands like Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, and Motley Crue) Fatal Smile spent over a year writing and recording songs for what they knew was the album to become their legacy.

The album, the band's fourth release, was recorded in the tour buses, hotel rooms and studios all over the world before finally eleven songs were singled out and re-recorded during 2011. Ten top names tried out for the mixing job, all mixing the song planned as the second single of the album. The band put together a jury of friends to pick out their favorite mix, which turned out to be mix no. 5, not knowing it was mixed by drummer Philty and guitarist MR.Y.

After a year of blood, sweat and beer's it's finally time for their brand new album '21st Century Freaks' to see the light of day. This time the band have done everything on their own to make it the ultimate Fatal Smile album, from recording and engineering to producing and mixing the album and the result is massive, with "in your face" songs and a "larger than life" sound.

The album was produced by MR.Y, engineered/recorded by Philty, and mixed by the pair together. The mastering duties were handled by Mats "Limpan" Lindfors at Cutting Room Studios.
The first single "Welcome To The Freakshow" will be released in March and the album will be released in Europe on April 27 via Metallville Records.
The release will be followed by a massive world tour, and you can expect to see Fatal Smile's intense live show blasting in a venue near you during this year...

http://www.fatalsmile.com/

FROM TOM GALLEY THE CREATOR OF PHENOMENA - AWAKENING

2012-02-02T07:33:00.000+02:00

People should learn to expect a little awe and mystery. Phenomena takes us upon a journey where there is nothing pretty about the protagonists of the story that we shall meet along the way. The subject is good against evil.

The story began in the year 1983, when Tom Galley wrote a couple of short stories with a transcendental background. Backed by record label Bronze, the recordings for the album "Phenomena" started soon which finally hit the stores in 1985. Besides the extra-ordinary concept story both musicianship and the names involved with the project are highlights to mention. Names such as Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE, HTP), drum legend Cozy Powell (RAINBOW, WHITESNAKE a.o.), Don Airey (DEEP PURPLE), Neil Murray (WHITESNAKE) - the elite of the British Hard Rock scene had joined the project. "Phenomena" received high critical acclaim in the press and extremely good sales.

The second PHENOMENA album "Phenomena II - Dream Runner" was released in 1987 and was welcomed with a similarly warm response. The musicians around the Galley brothers had changed slightly, so that this album in the end featured contributions from Ray Gillen (BADLANDS, BLACK SABBATH), John Wetton (ASIA), Scott Gorham (THIN LIZZY) and Max Bacon (GTR), amongst others.

With new label Parachute involved, in 1991 the time was right for "final part" of the conceptional story; Phenomena III - Inner Visions". Besides Brian May (QUEEN) and Keith Murrell (AIRRACE), you'll here also find performances by Michael Sturgis (A-HA) and Scott Gorham (THIN LIZZY). The Complete Works were released in a triple fold out Digipack by Escape Music (ESM142).

However, the PHENOMENA concept continued in 2006 under the banner "PsychoFantasy", (ESM125 ecolbook and 125r regular version) which strictly follows the traditions of its three predecessors. Besides the concept story background, you will once again will find a whole bunch of amazing artists performing on this record: Tony Martin (BLACK SABBATH), Glenn Hughes (DEEP PURPLE), Keith Murrell (MAMA'S BOYS) - and Mel Galley (WHITESNAKE, TRAPEZE).

In September 2010 a new chapter began with a whole host of musicians, and "Blind Faith" (ESM216) was born to explosive effect. With new Vocalists like Robin Beck, Terry Brock (Strangeways) and Rob Moratti (Saga) a whole new world was unveiled and the concept became so fresh again. The rock audience once more were thrilled to hear the latest in this timeless story.

In 2012 we will all hear the new Album "Awakening", an album chock full of new ideas and featuring James Christian (House of Lords), Lee Small (Shy) and Toby Hitchcock (Pride of Lions) as well as familiar faces like Rob Moratti, Terry Brock and Mike DiMeo. Powerful songs executed by some of the finest rock musicians make this a hugely enjoyable album and it boasts a fine production from Tom Galley and Martin Kronlund. Here you will find straight ahead rockers with powerful melodies along with up-tempo ballads and beautiful choruses.

Awakening is a fantastic way to start 2012, it is another chapter in the engaging story that Tom Galley began in 1983. In Short, a must.

musicians :

Martin Kronlund: Guitars, and Bass
Tom Harlan: Guitars & Keyboards
Imre Daun: Drums.
Henrik Thomsen: bass
Per Aronson-Andersson: Hammond, keyboards
JAVA Gospel on "Stand up for love

Additional Musicians:

Carl Anthony Wright - Guitars
Christian Wolff - Guitars
Tommy Denander - Guitars
Mike Slamer Guitars
Magnus Karlsson - Guitars
Mat Sinner - Bass
All COLDSPELL members
Steve Newman - Guitars and backing vocals
Fredrik Bergh - Keyboards on "Smash It Up" And "Gotta Move"

Lynch Mob Quickly Part With Vains Of Jenna Singer And Reunite With Oni Logan

2012-02-01T17:20:00.000+02:00

Just last week former Dokken guitarist George Lynch revealed that Vains Of Jenna frontman Jesse Forte would be the new Lynch Mob vocalist. The announcement led to Vains Of Jenna calling it quits by saying that they were ending the band after seven years. However it now appears that Lynch and Oni Logan have put aside their differences to teamed up once again.

Says Jesse Forte, "I actually wont be working with George on Lynch Mob. He informed me over the phone that he and Oni have reconciled and have decided to continue on. I wish them the best. Stay tuned for my next project."

Lynch and Logan, who reformed Lynch Mob to release the 2009 comeback album 'SMoke And Mirrors', fell out in July of 2010 when Logan failed to show up for Houston, Texas gig. "Oni let the band and our fans down," Lynch stated at the time. "He quit the band at 5:30 am before our 7:30 am scheduled flight. He left us high and dry and did not fulfill his commitment. We are saddened and disappointed - but as a band, we are committed to honoring our obligations."

Unknown Chris Romero was quickly flown in to handle vocal duties on the first two dates of that tour, while Chaz West of Bonham replaced Logan on the remainign tour dates. In March of 2010 Forte joined Vains Of Jenna when original vocalist Lizzy DeVine departed by saying, "I must move on and let the band grow." The original musical core of the group -- Nicki Kin, JP White and Jacki Stone -- took their new voice and hit the studio in July 2010. The outcome was the EP 'We Can Never Die', followed by the April 2011 release 'Reverse Tripped', a 14 song covers album that included the hit single "F**k You".

Melodic Rock Fanzine

2012-02-01T17:15:00.000+02:00

Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of MELODIC ROCK FANZINE. The 48th release of our successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mailorders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases.

This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Primal Fear, Mollo Martin, Michael Thompson Band, Mark Spiro, Dragonland, Chris Ousey, Nightwish, Sonic Station, Beyond The Bridge, Sunstorm, Red Rose, Lee Small, Mr. Big... and more!

Billy Duffy : "What we do with The Cult is try and let the songs become who they are"

2012-02-01T07:27:00.000+02:00

Noisecreep recently conducted an interview with THE CULT guitarist Billy Duffy who talked about the band’s new album Choice Of Weapon. "What we do with The Cult is try and let the songs become who they are," Duffy explains. "It's like school children, you try and give them good guidance, but they're going to end up doing what they want to do. In the end, you have to just relinquish power. You want to capture a feel and document the era when you wrote them. You don't want to overdo it, or you end up with something like Chinese Democracy. You know what I mean?"

Choice Of Weapon is set for a May 22nd North American release via the band's new label, Cooking Vinyl.

The album was produced by Bob Rock (METALLICA). It was written by Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy, recorded in New York City, Los Angeles, the California high desert, and the band's Witch Mountain studio between July and December 2011. The new release features founding members Astbury on vocals and Duffy on guitars, with drummer John Tempesta and bassist Chris Wyse.

HOUSE OF SHAKIRA / HOUSE OF SHAKIRA (2012)

2012-01-30T19:10:00.000+02:00

House Of Shakira is a melodic rock act that hails from Sweden. And as good Swedish guys they are playing, for those who don't know the band, melodic rock with attitude, very good melodies and memorable choruses and hooks. In the past, the band has released six studio albums and they achieved to build a strong reputation around their names. Albums such as their debut, "Lint", "III" and "First Class" are all great samples of what this band is capable of playing.

So, nowadays, the band is back and with Andreas Novak on vocals are ready to conquer the top of their gerne! In this album, the band put heart and soul to give us a very good effort and with Andreas Novak on vocals they are sounding fresh and ready to make a brand new start! The tune of "Brick Wall Falling" impressed me from the first listening while the mid-tempo "Lost In Transition" and "Voice In The Void" are both some of the greatest songs that this band has ever recorded!

Overall, this is a very good and extremely melodic album that the fans of House Of Shakira should check it out! For sure, this one, along with the new Last Autumn's Dream album are a great start for this scene! Well done!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 8/10

Track List : 1 Brick Wall Falling 2 Changes in Mind 3 Carry My Load 4 Zodiac Maniac 5 Fractions of Love 6 Midnight Hunger 7 Endless Night 8 All Aboard! 9 What Goes Around 10 I'll Be Gone 11 Voice in the Void 12 Lost In Transition 13 Out of my head

Rosewood Festival is back with a shout, more exciting than ever!

2012-01-29T13:08:00.000+02:00

Rosewood Festival is back with a shout, more exciting than ever! After its beginning last year, we continue the tradition, hosting some of the best uprising melodic hard rock bands of our days, bands that honor the music we've loved since the 70's! This year we are proud to present bands like :

Newman (England) http://www.newmansound.com/
Wild Rose (Greece) http://www.wildrose.gr/
Work of Art (Sweden) http://www.woa.se/
Konkurent (Bulgaria) http://www.konkurentrockband.com/
Heart Attack (Greece) http://www.jumpingfish.gr/HEART_ATTACK

on the 17th of March, in the AOR / Melodic kickstart of the festival and:

RedRum (Greece/Germany) http://www.myapace.com/redrumgr
HungryHeart(Italy) http://www.hungryheart.it/
Homerun(Italy) http://www.homerunrock.it/
Danger Angel (Greece) http://www.dangerangelband.com/
John Steele (Bulgaria) http://www.myspace.com/johnsteelband
Jack Spirit (Greece) http://www.myspace.com/jackspiritband

on the 18th , closing the fest with a more Heavy Rock feeling!

We will be waiting to meet ya there, for a weekend full of the melodies we love!! Rock on the Rosewood Way !!!

(Order online tickets) Reptile Music: http://www.reptile-music.com/

NEW EUROPE ALBUM TITLE ANNOUNCED

2012-01-29T09:56:00.000+02:00

According to Europe's official site the title for the band's next album will be "Bag Of Bones". Here is Europe's official statement : WE CAN PROUDLY ANNOUNCE THE TITLE OF THE NEW EUROPE ALBUM, PRODUCED BY KEVIN SHIRLEY! WATCH OUT THIS APRIL/MAY FOR OUR 9TH STUDIO ALBUM "BAG OF BONES"!

Ratt Hoping To Release New Studio Album In The Summer

2012-01-28T10:19:00.000+02:00

According to Sleaze Roxx.com, U.S. Hard Rock band Ratt is continuing to write songs for their new studio record, the follow-up to their 2010 comeback album 'Infestation'. Stephen Pearcy, Warren DeMartini, Carlos Cavazo, Robbie Crane and Bobby Blotzer are hoping to finish recording in time for a summer release and tour. Until then, the band may schedule a few surprise shows.

Pearcy and DeMartini have been demoing songs for the currently untitled album as well as working with the Foo Fighter's Dave Grohl on a separate project. Vocalist Stephen Pearcy has recently locked in a publisher for the new book (no title yet), which should be finished later this year for an early 2013 release. Look for Pearcy on a new episode of VH-1 Rock & Roll Fantasy Camp, filming in February 2012.

Selling more than 14 million albums in the US alone, and establishing themselves as one of the most popular groups of the 1980s, Ratt returned in 2010 with 'Infestation' and new guitarist Carlos Cavazo (of Quiet Riot fame). 'Infestation', released on April 20th through Loud & Proud/Roadrunner, peaked at #30 on the Billboard charts during its three week run.

SKIN / SKIN (plus bonus tracks) (1994)

2012-01-28T09:23:00.000+02:00

This is one of the finest debut albums that has been released during the 90's in the Hard Rock world. SKIN was founded in 1993 by ex-Jagged Edge members Myke Gray and Andy Robbins (also former members of Tokyo Blade and the awesome Shogun) along with AORsters Kooga vocalist Neville MacDonald and drummer Dicki Fliszar, formerly from Bruce Dickinson’s touring band.

The album features some really tight musicianship, catchy choruses, Neville MacDonald 's amazing vocal performances and Myke Gray's superb guitar work. The album starts with the 'heavier' "Money". Next we have the brilliant tunes of "Look But Don't Touch" and "Tower of Strength" which both have memorable hooks and choruses. "Raised On Radio" is ultra-anthemic and must be played on 10! "Wings of an Angel" is a beautiful ballad and features a nice melody while "House Of Love" shows the band's more American-esque sound. The album back then included a bonus album with covers and, also, a couple of unreleashed tracks. Nowadays, Skin's debut effort is been re-issued, remastered at 24-bit from the original source tapes plus 7 bonus tracks. The 'new' tracks here are "This Planet's On Fire", "Take It Easy" and "Take Me Down To The River".

Overall, this is a great album all the way. It has attitude, great performances and some brilliant tunes that they can't be missed by any fan of pure ass-kickin' hard rock. For fans of early-Thunder, Tyketto and Jagged Edge this is a MUST have. Well done!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 9/10

Track List : 01 - Money, 02 - Shine Your Light, 03 - House Of Love, 04 - Colourblind, 05 - Which Are The Tears, 06 - Look But Don't Touch, 07 - Nightsong, 08 - Tower Of Strength, 09 - Revolution, 10 - Raised On Radio, 11 - Wings Of An Angel, 12 - Monkey (bonus track), 13 - Should I Stay Or Should I Go (bonus track), 14 - Pump It Up (bonus track), 15 - Good Good Lovin' (bonus track), 16 - This Planet's On Fire (bonus track), 17 - Take It Easy (bonus track), 18 - Take Me Down To The River (bonus track)

Germany's Electro Industrial Metaller COLD RUSH signs with Rock N Growl!

2012-01-27T19:57:00.000+02:00

Germany’s Electro Industrial Metaller “COLD RUSH“ have sign a worldwide management deal with ROCK N GROWL MANAGEMENT. Finally the time has come...... the recording of our new album is almost finished, you may be curious. COLD RUSH will be harder, more melodic and catchy. With our new singer Matthias Kupka our album is more mature, without changing the character of the band, a real gain for COLD RUSH!!!

At our concert with MEGAHERZ on 17. March 2012 we will presumably publish a Maxi CD, a small foretaste on our Longplayer. For more on this SHORTLY. Cold Rush "Daily Crime"
http://soundcloud.com/rockngrowl/cold-rush-daily-crime

Dark, scary, stomping and mechanical just a few tags to the sound of COLD RUSH, a new German band ready to enter the gloomy fields of electronic hard beats and gothic metal sounds. Laid on machine-like rhythms, driving guitars and pounding basses dominate the sound of COLD RUSH. Crowned with massive hardcore-like vocals this breed presents itself as stylistic continuation of 90s industrial bands. COLD RUSH - A band from Munich, Germany releaesd in 2009 the debut album The Illness. The band played throughout Germany with MEGADETH, LAST INSTANCE, MONO INC., DEBAUCHERY, EQULIBRIUM, SUIDAKRA etc.

Since early 2011 the band is again in the studio and recorded their new studio album. With the new singer "Matthias Kupka", well known from the bands SUIDAKRA and EMERGENCY GATE. MATTHIAS is a very experienced vocalist, with more than 200 live gigs all over Europe (EUROPE tour with KREATOR). COLD RUSH presents the new sound even harder, more melodic and powerful!

Band:

Matthias Kupka - Vocals
K.L. - Guitars
Ramirez - Bass
Flo - Drums
Wutzl - Guitars

Live:

15. March 2012 19:00, Rock's, Nersingen
17. March 2012 20:00, BACKSTAGE WERK MUNICH/w. MEGAHERZ

Web:

http://www.cold-rush.com/
www.facebook.com/pages/Cold-Rush-Bandseite/278429695553827
www.myspace.com/coldrushmusic

GIRLSCHOOL SET TO RELEASE THREE VERSIONS OF HIT AND RUN REVISITED

2012-01-26T07:18:00.000+02:00

There is a very limited number of rock albums which have stood the test of time, only true masterpieces continuing to sound fresh and exciting even years after their release. The reason for their cult status: the songs are timeless and the album’s sound has captured the magic of the moment perfectly. Girlschool’s second album, Hit And Run, out in 1981, was such a classic. For the British all-girl group surrounding singer/guitarist Kim McAuliffe, the successor to their debut, Demolition, marked their international breakthrough. To this day, a number of tracks off Hit And Run feature on the live tracklist of the band which still consists of the original line-up – with the exception of the late Kelly Johnson, who sadly passed away in 2007 (she was replaced by guitarist Jackie Chambers in 2000). The news that Girlschool are about to present a re-recorded version of Hit And Run, complemented by two awesome bonus tracks, will delight media and fans from all age groups alike. “I’m just amazed that people still love it, even young people come up at our gigs now with copies that they found on the Internet or in shops or something,” comments McAuliffe. Hit And Run – Revisited will be released in three versions: the first edition of the album will be available as a CD Digipak, followed by a regular jewel case CD and a vinyl LP with gatefold sleeve.

For McAuliffe and her three colleagues Chambers, bassist Enid Williams and drummer Denise Dufort, these re-recordings are much more than a journey back in time to the beginnings of their career: Hit And Run – Revisited documents the songs’ great sustainability, recorded all over again in spring 2011 with a modern sound and contemporary studio equipment. Back then, in March 1981 at the Jackson’s Studios, the conditions were almost archaic: “This studio, which was almost like a shack in the middle of nowhere in Rickmansworth, was so old-fashioned,” McAuliffe remembers, “you used to have to kick things to make them work. It was that sort of studio. It was just the four of us and Vic, as simple as that.” But the spark was ignited as soon as producer Vic Maille recognised the quality of the material and Girlschool started to have an idea what kind of gem they were about to hold in their hands. “We weren’t sure,” McAuliffe confesses, “I mean we were surprised and obviously delighted at the success of Demolition, so we were hoping that this one would do well. But we weren’t quite sure how well it would do.”

Fact is: following its release, the album instantly hit it big. Hit And Run climbed the charts fast in America and Canada (even making the gold mark!), made no. 5 in the UK and opened the doors to major venues for Girlschool. As a result, the musicians led a real jet set life and were flown around the globe by Jerry Bron, the owner of their record company Bronze Records. McAuliffe: “Jerry had his own little airline. And we’d be zipping off in these little planes all over the place. One minute we’d be in Germany doing an interview or a TV show, and the next minute we’d be back in Newcastle. On the same day, you know. We thought ‘Blimey, this is incredible. This must be what it’s like to be rock stars.’ We zipped off everywhere in these little planes. So it was quite an amazing time, really.”

A life full of highlights began, including the amenities of the dolce vita in the true sense of the word: “That was the first time that we could have everything we wanted on the rider. You know, you hear these things about how you could just have whatever you want, so we used to love these things from Marks & Spencer’s. There were these little chocolates with cream on top. Sort of desserts. We had them every night on our rider.”

Naturally, re-recording their classic under ideal studio conditions brought back memories for Girlschool of days gone by. At the same time, the musicians took the artistic liberty of updating a number of arrangements. McAuliffe: “We’ve made quite a few changes. But I’m not gonna say anything about them because we’re hoping that our fans will notice for themselves, just to see how well they know the original ones. But of course it’s a different sound, we have Jackie play now, obviously, instead of Kelly, and also again, studio-wise it’s just a completely different experience because the technology now is incredible compared to what we had in those days.”

So Hit And Run – Revisited sees Girlschool come full circle: all eleven numbers from the original now sparkle in amazing and dynamic versions, with small changes to a number of details and two fantastic bonus tracks: Girlschool have re-recorded ‘Demolition Boys’, the opener from their debut album, plus a haunting duet with Germany’s no. 1 rock vocalist, Doro, on the title track ‘Hit And Run’. In addition, this year’s tour will see them play the same setlist as they performed in the early Eighties plus a number of tracks from their 2008 release, Legacy. An appearance at the 2011 Wacken Open Air has already been confirmed (McAuliffe: “Every rock act wants to play Wacken. And we’ll be there for the third time, following our gigs in 1999 and 2008. A dream-come-true!”). In other words: present and past will be combined by one of the most successful all-girl bands in the history of rock music!

TRACKS
1. C`Mon Let`s Go (K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson) – 3:37
2. The Hunter (K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson) – 3:15
3. (I`m Your) Victim (K. Mcauliffe, D. Dufort) – 2:42
4. Kick It Down (K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson) – 3:03
5. Following The Crowd (E. Williams, K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson) – 3:08
6. Tush (B. Gibbons, D. Hill, F. Beard) – 2:16
7. Hit And Run (K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson) – 3:08
8. Watch Your Step (E. Williams, K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson) – 3:22
9. Back To Start (K. Johnson, E. Willams) – 3:32
10. Yeah Right (K. Mcauliffe, K. Johnson, D. Dufort) – 3:21
11. Future Flash (K. Johnson, K. Mcauliffe) – 4:27

BONUS
12. Demolition Boys (K. McAuliffe, K. Johnson)
13. Hit And Run (with Doro)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7010805874&ref=ts
http://www.girlschool.co.uk/
http://www.myspace.com/girlschool1

Teen Rocker DIAMANTE Premieres Brand New Video for Top 40 Single "Impossible"

2012-01-25T21:41:00.000+02:00

Los Angeles, CA - DIAMANTE and Cumbia Films invite you to the official screening and Premiere of DIAMANTE's music video "Impossible" at The Lounge Theater in Hollywood on January 29th. The teen rocker who is frequently compared to such artists as Avril Lavigne and Hayley Williams has radio stations across the country buzzing over her new single and video. "Impossible" flawlessly reflects the classic 'girl meets bad boy' story line as it's portrayed in the song. The single is available for download on iTunes.

"Impossible" recently broke into the Top 40 charts on terrestrial radio stations nationwide, and has been dominating the charts since its release in October 2011.

DIAMANTE, who currently has festivals booked in California, Texas and Nevada, says she wrote the song based off of real life experiences and feelings. DIAMANTE is being claimed as the next big star of the rock/pop world for good reason. The musician and songwriter who is wise beyond her teen years brings depth to all of her songs through her unique lyrics, catchy melodies, and exceptional rock solid voice. Not only is DIAMANTE thriving in the U.S., her music is also being streamed on radio stations across the globe in Mexico and Australia.

DIAMANTE will perform on February 11th in addition to another screening of "Impossible" in a theatrical setting on January 29th. Performance details to follow.

The general public viewing of "Impossible" at The Lounge Theater will be held at 6:45pm, January 29th. RSVP to Tiffany@LaFamos.com .
For more information on DIAMANTE, visit her website (http://diamanteofficialmusic.com/)

MOTÖRHEAD KICK OFF 2012 IN A BIG WAY WITH EPIC DVD AND GIGANTOUR WITH MEGADETH

2012-01-24T16:13:00.000+02:00

Another country, another town, another place, the greatest road warriors in rock have once again bled their sweat all over another stage. A sold-out crowd roars their approval. Here we go: Lemmy steps up to the mike…

“WE ARE MOTÖRHEAD ! . . . AND WE PLAY ROCK‘N‘ROLL !”

And after each show one thing is crystal clear: Motörhead remain the finest, loudest, hardest and coolest live British rock’n’roll band around. The global tour for their 20th studio release, The Wörld is Yours, took in Motörhead bangers from America to Argentina, Belgium to Brazil, from Sweden to Spain and dozens of other countries all over the world.

In celebration of their 35 years on the road, on January 24th Motörhead Music/UDR is proud to present: The Wörld Is Ours-Vol 1 - Everywhere Further Than Everyplace Else, a blistering DVD containing some of the finest moments from the tour, including the entire performance from Chile’s Teatro Caupolican, shot and filmed in classic black and white by Banger Films and Sam Dunn (Iron Maiden Flight 666, Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage). Mixed by the band‘s long-time producer Cameron Webb, The Wörld Is Ours - Vol 1 - Everywhere Further Than Everyplace Else is stuffed with the classics Motörfans demand, from ‘Overkill‘ to “Ace Of Spades” to “Killed By Death” as well as some old gems like “Over The Top” and new favorites such as “I Know How To Die.”

As well as this epic Motörperformance, exciting numbers from the shows in Manchester and New York are also included on the triple-disc digipack set, along with a series of extensive, in depth and exclusive interviews with the band, a bonus double live CD of the Chile show (incl. selected tracks from NY & Manchester), plus a superbly photographed booklet documenting life on the road during the tour.

On January 26, Motörhead make their return to the U.S. and Canada on the multi-bill festival, GIGANTOUR, with Megadeth, Volbeat and Lacuna Coil. Gigantour is a chance to tour with like-minded artists “that play heavy music in a high-energy environment,” says Dave Mustaine. The tour will kick off on Jan. 26 in Camden, NJ and run through Feb. 28 in Denver, and will include stops in NY (Jan. 28) and Los Angeles (Feb. 24).

In other Motörhead news:

- Lemmy, The Movie, the film about Motörhead’s iconic frontman, won Best Film/DVD at the recent Classic Rock Awards in the U.K. and has also received an RIAA Gold sales award in North America.

- Paul Inder, Lemmy’s son, runs a successful recording studio in Los Angeles, Inder Music Studios, where Lemmy has been known to work. Says Paul, “Everyone who has come here so far loves the vibe of the place.”

- In last month’s issue of Revolver Magazine, the cover story was dedicated to the 100 Greatest Living Rock Stars, with Lemmy (of course) among the greats.

- In CMJ’s 2011 year-end charts, Motörhead’s CD, The World Is Yours, was number one on the Loud Rock chart. Upon the record’s release, it spent six weeks at number one on this chart, which is the longest that Motörhead has held that position at radio. Number One!

- We recently told you about Motörhead wine. (Their Shiraz got great reviews: “A fairly grown-up wine – can taste the fruitiness. A panel favorite.” And “A red wine that’s ‘Aces.’”) Now comes Motörhead Vodka. It’s a premium, 80 proof Vodka made from 100% locally grown wheat that has been distilled and bottled in Sweden. It has a rich, full-bodied and complex character, with a light and fruity aftertaste. One reviewer said, “That’s how women sometimes describe Lemmy.”

- In Duff McKagan’s ESPN.com weekly column, he recently wrote about his band, Loaded, opening for Motörhead in Germany. He says, “Being here on the road with Motörhead is to get an awe-inspiring peek into legend. Their consistancy remains a sort of explosive touchstone for all of us who need to be reminded of what is real and true and honest about rock music. Lemmy is still more on top of his game than five 20-year olds combined. If you get a chance to see this band, don’t even try to think twice about it. They are the very best of what it is all about…it’s like going to rock and roll church.”

- Motörhead were recently nominated for a Shorty Award, honoring the best of social media, recognizing the people and organizations producing real-time short form content across the social Web.

- Lemmy performed with Camp Freddy on their last 2011 show, which took place at the at the world famous Roxy on the Sunset Strip on the day before Lemmy’s 66th birthday. Participating in the tribute to Lemmy that night were Slash, Matt Sorum, John Lydon, among others, and also included birthday greetings from Ozzy.

- Lemmy will be part of a Ronnie James Dio tribute album which will be out later this year.

- And finally, two German scientists/academics discovered Motörhead in recent years and wrote an article about them, saying: “This band is loud and fresh, hard and relevant…Motörhead are the hardest trio of the rock world…The band is rocking.”

We agree!!
http://www.imotorhead.com/

INTERVIEW WITH KISSIN' DYNAMITE'S LEAD SINGER JOHANNES BRAUN

2012-01-23T22:54:00.001+02:00

In December 2007, some music journalists discover a 4-track CD in their Christmas mail by a combo hitherto unknown to them, called Kissin’ Dynamite. Gripping hard and riff rock professionally produced and influenced by Mötley Crüe, Whitesnake and AC/DC – reminiscent of NWoBHM sounds by the iron pioneers themselves, and an anthemic pathos HammerFall and Manowar could not pull off any better-, lets expectations towards the entire record by these nobodies rise sky high. In July 2008, the Kissin’ Dynamite debut album "STEEL OF SWABIA" was a fact! In 2010, the band released their second effort which was titled "ADDICTED TO METAL". It was again a solid album full of attitude and some very good songwritting that prooved that this band has a lot to offer to this scene!
Nowadays and Kissin' Dynamite it's going to release their third opus. The band's lead singer Johannes Braun, is talkin' to Heavy Paradise about the band's "Addicted To Metal" album, Udo Dirkschneider and, of course, their new album! Enjoy!

heavy paradise : Hello Johannes and welcome to Heavy Paradise for this interview!

Johannes : Hey man! Thanks!

heavy paradise : Firstly, can you tell our readers some words about the 'who is who' of Kissin' Dynamite?

Johannes :Kissin Dynamite, thats Jim Müller and Ande Braun on guitars, Steffen Haile on bass, Andi Schnitzer on drums and me as vocalist! The band exists since 2002! The final lineup change we had in 2007.

heavy paradise : In 2010, you have released a really solid album, "Addicted To Metal". The reviews from all over the net were really great! So, Johannes how much addicted are you to metal?

Johannes : Oh man I can´t tell you in words! Since I was a kid I always listened to bands like Accept, Judas Priest, Maiden and AC/DC. I used to steal these records from my father! For me there was never ever any other music that kicked my ass in a way metal did! So I am definetely addicted to it!

heavy paradise : How did it came up the collaboration with the 'Metal' man Udo Dirkschneider?

Johannes : He saw several Kissin Dynamite festival gigs from the stage side. He told us later that he wanted us to be his support6 band on the Dominator tour. And in fact we did some shows together! That´s when the idea came up, to do a feature!

heavy paradise : How can you describe the sound of Kissin' Dynamite? Do you accept the labels when it comes to music?

Johannes :I would say Kissin Dynamite fits best in the Sleaze Metal scene. Maybe you could say Mötley Crüe meets Judas Priest. Music is so different, I think you cannot have a name for every kind of music, but you can compare bands to others and approach a label.

heavy paradise : So, a brand new video clip, "Money, Sex & Power" and a new record later this year! That's really cool news! So, what are we going to hear from your new album?

Johannes :Oh, this is definetely gonna blow your mind! You gonna hear the best Kissin Dynamite record so far with lots of catchy sleaze metal songs. It comes out March 23rd. I promise you will sing along if you hear it the first time. And we will also release a second single with another videoclip.

heavy paradise : Are there any changes regarding of your two previous releases?

Johannes : It goes back a little more to Steel of swabia when it comes to catchy hooklines but the sound is fater than ever before.We especially focused on the much deeper guitar sound and the vocals.

heavy paradise : A record deal with AFM Records seems to be a good deal. How difficult is for a band to get a good record sign nowadays?

Johannes :There are so many good bands outside and the most of them can´t get a deal because nowadays „good“ is often net enough! You have to be outstanding if you want a deal... This is a problem but I would advice every band to at least try.For us AFM records is the best label we could have!

heavy paradise : What are your plans for live performances?

Johannes :We will go on tour in April with our new record and maybe we also do a support Europe tour. We will play a lot of new songs and plan great showacts as well. Check out our homepage http://www.kissindynamite.de/ for all the information!

heavy paradise : At this point, I have to thank you for this interview and to wish you all the best for your future plans!

Johannes : Thank you!

DANGER DANGER , The Biography

2012-01-22T15:10:00.001+02:00

Danger Danger was formed in 1987 by former Hotshot members lead vocalist Mike Pont, bassist Bruno Ravel, and drummer Steve West. This line up also featured then future Hotshot guitarist Al Pitrelli and former Get With It keyboardist Kasey Smith. Mike Pont later left the band and was replaced by Ted Poley, who previously played in the band Prophet as drummer, and sometimes lead vocalist. Somewhere during this time, they made an attempt at recording a demo, but failed.

In 1988, guitarist Al Pitrelli left the band and together with lead vocalist Pont reunited to form a new line-up of Hotshot. Since then, Pitrelli has played in various other bands. Pitrelli played on most of the Danger Danger compilation album "Rare Cuts".

1989 and Danger Danger have a new guitarist on board Tony 'Bruno' Rey. Rey played on part of their debut album, before returning to his previous band (Saraya). The new man on the guitars was Andy Timmons who played on the rest of their debut album.

So, the debut album, "Danger Danger" released the same year and it was a great success for the band and spawned two hits with “Naughty Naughty” and “Bang Bang,” with the former gaining a spot in MTV' s Headbanger’s Ball. The band went on tour opening for KISS, Alice Cooper, Extreme and Warrant.

In 1991 Danger Danger were back with "Screw It!". The album spawned two other hits with “Monkey Business” and “I Still Think About You” and again they went on tour with KISS. After the tour, Kasey Smith left the band.
In 1993, the band had finished work with their third album titled "Cockroach". But 'cause of the so called 'grunge' revolution and some 'problems' with their vocalist Ted Poley the album was never released, back then!
Meanwhile the new singer for the band was Paul Laine and he re-recorded the "Cockroach' album . Still, when they were about to release it, Epic thought it was in their best interest to shelve the record. Shortly after, the band and the label parted ways. In addition, guitarist Timmons left the band to pursue a solo career. Since then, Timmons played guitar on both of Kip Winger's solo albums.

Bruno Ravel & Steve West together they created their own label (Low Dice Records) and they started working on a new album together with Laine. They finally released "Dawn" in 1995 which featured a 'darker' and more 'modern' sound. That was a thing that confused the band's die-hards.

The band went back in the studio and released "Four the Hard Way" in 1998. Former band members Andy Timmons and Kasey Smith contributed to the album, and the band went back on tour. In 2000, they released "The Return of the Great Gildersleeves". In 2001, the band made a unique move after talks with Epic, releasing "Cockroach", which was supposed to be their third album, but could not be released for legal issues. The album featured two discs with both versions of the album, one with Laine on vocals and the other with Ted Poley.

(Danger Danger Line-Up (2009) For The 'Revolve" Album )

In 2004, Laine left the band and original singer Poley returned. However, a 2005 release, "Live and Nude", which was recorded in 2003 featured Laine. On September 19, 2009, the label Frontiers Records released "Revolve", featuring the return of Poley as lead singer, as well as new member, guitar hero Rob Marcello.

Danger Danger Discography :

1989 "Danger Danger"
1990 "Down And Dirty live"
1991 "Screw It"
1995 "Dawn" (Feat. Paul Laine on lead vocals)
1998 "Four The Hard Way" (Feat. Paul Laine on lead vocals)
2000 "The Return of the Great Gildersleeves" (Feat. Paul Laine on lead vocals)
2001 "Cockroach" (Feat. Paul Laine & Ted Poley on lead vocals)
2003 "Rare Cuts"
2005 "Live And Nude" (Feat. Paul Laine on lead vocals)
2009 "Revolve"

http://www.dangerdanger.com/

MALICE signs with SPV/Steamhammer

2012-01-22T08:00:00.000+02:00

Legendary US metal band MALICE signed a worldwide deal with SPV / Steamhammer. Original members Jay Reynolds (guitars), Mick Zane (guitars) and Mark Behn (bass) entered the Silver Cloud Studios in Los Angeles together with new singer James Rivera (Helstar) and new drummer Pete Holmes (Black NŽBlue) to re-record some of their classics plus 4 new songs. The producer is Joe Floyd (Warrior) who also was involved in producing records of Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford. The album is scheduled for a May 2012 release.

"We were all amazed at the great crowd responce and turn out for the gigs we played in 2011 , and it feels great to have a well known label like SPV behind us, be in the studio with a veteran line up and have a killer producer...... there will no longer be an abscence of MALICE !!" comments Jay Reynolds.

The band can`t wait to go on tour and dates will be announced soon. Bass player Robert Cardenas (Agent Steel) , who also recorded the new tracks in the studio, will step in for Mark Behn on the live front.

SPV / Steamhammer A&R / Product manager Olly Hahn comments: "Malice was always underrated. With their two albums "In The Beginning" and "License To Kill" they created timeless US Metal and itŽs time to let all the younger fans know about this and show the older fans that Malice is still capable to write songs in the name of metal. I`m very happy that the band decided to be part of the growing SPV / Steamhammer family."
http://www.spv.de/

Gotthard on tour in South America

2012-01-19T22:04:00.000+02:00

Gotthard has just confirmed more tourdates. They will be on tour together with Unisonic in South America. These concerts will be the very first live shows with Nic!

Tourdates:

12.05. Buenos Aires, Argentina - Teatro Flores
14.05. Antofagasta, Chile - Statix Rock & Soccer
16.05. Santiago, Chile - Teatro Teleton
18.05. Sao Paulo, Brazil - HSBC Hall
20.05. Mexico City, Mexico - Circo Volador

http://www.gotthard.com/

WEISS + BANEGAS CELEBRATE THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL ROAST OF ZAKK WYLDE

2012-01-19T20:21:00.000+02:00

On Thursday, January 19 at The Grove in Anaheim, CA, guitar icon Zakk Wylde, surrounded by Roastmaster Sharon Osborne and a slew of metal luminaries, will hold the distinctive honor of being the inaugural honoree of Guitar World’s first ever Rock ‘n’ Roll Roast to benefit MusiCares, which provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need.

A “Wylde” roast…not a bad way to launch a new creative alliance between photographer Mark Weiss and artist David Banegas. Two months ago when they shared an idea to collaborate their passion for music, art and “giving back,” neither dreamed it would come together at such a high profile stage so quickly. As the guests arrive via the red carpet to the sold out event, attendees will pass by a portrait of Zakk Wylde by photographer Mark Weiss and the mirror image created by artist David Banegas. David will also be painting “live,” a Zakk’s Epiphone Signature Les Paul guitar on canvas to be auctioned off for MusiCares.

To Photographer Mark Weiss, there is a special connection with Zakk. In 1987, Weiss, who has been Ozzy Osbourne’s photographer since 1981, was helping Ozzy in his search to find a new guitarist. Mark, Sharon and Ozzy had just returned “empty handed” from checking out a guitar player in Long Island. Mark’s last words to Ozzy and Sharon were, “I’ll keep my eyes open.” The next day, Weiss’ friend Dave Feld told Mark to give this kid he saw at a local club a listen. It was Zakk, a NJ teenager, still living at home with his parents. Mark sent the photo and cassette for Ozzy to check out. Sharon called Mark and told him to bring Zakk to LA to audition. And here we are, 25 years later, celebrating the incredible guitar work of the Black Label Society front man.

David Banegas grew up in Bolivia and has been painting since he was 6 years old. He explains his unique work as “something that happens at the moment, it flows, I can't explain it.” If there is a name for this method it would be 'Action Painting', it is done layer upon layer and is created with pure feeling.” Once he captures the eyes, he is “locked in place and the rest of the painting then follows.” “It comes from letting go of all fears and painting what is felt and so this is a transcendent moment.” The term 'Action Painting' is very appropriate because David likes to paint “live.”

Mark Weiss has been auctioning his iconic photographs to benefit Lunch Break, the soup kitchen in Red Bank, NJ. At a Lunch Break fundraiser, David painted live from a photo of Elvis. David’s unique execution of the image caught Mark’s eye. The two had an idea to have David paint Mark’s most iconic rock ‘n’ roll images. Both men, as artists who create visuals live, and in the moment, want their work to help bring focus and funds to charitable causes.

In the Words of the All Mighty…

Not only is FATHER WEISS responsible for helping me get the Gig with OZZY, he’s also responsible for some of the most ICONIC ROCK PHOTOGRAPHY OF ROCK’S MOST LEGENDARY Bands and Artists of ALL TIME… THANKS FATHER WEISS!!! YOU RULE!!! KEEP IT ICONIC!!! -ZAKK

http://www.weissguygallery.com/ http://www.davidbanegas.com/ http://www.musicares.com/

PRETTY MAIDS to celebrate their 30th Anniversary with the release of « It Comes Alive » - the band’s first ever audio-visual release !

2012-01-19T18:39:00.000+02:00

Frontiers Records is pleased to celebrate PRETTY MAIDS’ Thirtieth Anniversary with the release of the band’s first ever live 2CD/DVD package entitled “It Comes Alive (Maid in Switzerland)” on March 23rd in Europe and March 27th in North America. Following the highly acclaimed 2010 album “Pandemonium”, Danish melodic hard rockers, Pretty Maids have been touring more or less constantly throughout 2010/2011. They undertook a full scale European tour in 2010 and have since played several festivals and occasional gigs. The overwhelming response to the new songs and the ongoing requests coming from the fans prompted the band to take their chance and record a live 2CD/DVD last October 1st 2011. Pretty Maids gathered in Pratteln, Switzerland with an enthusiastic and highly explosive crowd of die hard fans and followers to fulfill the demand, for an energetic and memorable performance which was recorded with a fully equipped mobile studio and cameras.

“Riding on the success of our previous studio album Pandemonium and with maybe the strongest line up ever, we thought that we’d make some kind of a live document of what this band is all about in the present time” tells singer Ronnie Atkins. “It Comes Alive is purely and simply a tribute to all our fans and supporters throughout the world, who gave us so many memorable moments, so much pleasure and making our childhood dreams come through”. “The band’s spirit during the last couple of years has been better than in a long long time” says Atkins. And “It Comes Alive (Maid in Switzerland)” shows the band at the top of their game, performing songs from a 30 year long career.

“It’s always difficult to make a set list that satisfies everyone” continues the singer, “It’s a combination of what the crowd expect us to play and what we like to play ourselves ! But of course there are songs like Futureworld and Red hot and heavy that we have been playing for the last 25 years so, they still get a new life every time we play ‘em and still seem to please our audience. But basically what you will find on this Live album are the songs that we toured with on the Pandemonium tour, with a few exceptions”.

CD1: Pandemonium; I.N.V.U; Hell on high heels; Wake up to the real world; Destination paradise; Another shot of your love; Scream; Walk away; It comes at night; Queen of dreams; Savage heart; Clay.
CD2: Yellow rain; Rock the house; Back to back; Rodeo; Lovegames; Future world; Little drops of heaven; Please don’t leave me; Red hot and heavy; Lethal Heroes** bonus track
DVD Contents: Pandemonium; I.N.V.U.; Hell On High Heels; Wake Up To The Real World; Destination Paradise; Another Shot of your love; Scream; Walk Away; It Comes At Night; Queen Of Dreams; Savage Heart; Yellow Rain; Rock The House; Back To Back; Rodeo; Love Games; Future World; Little Drops Of Heaven; Please Don't Leave Me; Red Hot & Heavy. Rockumentary (incl. backstage footage and interviews with the band)

Frontiers Records signs British uprising Metal stars FURYON for the Worldwide release of their debut album « Gravitas »

2012-01-18T21:44:00.000+02:00

Frontiers Records is excited to announce the Worldwide release of FURYON’s debut album “Gravitas” on March 23rd in Europe and March 27th in North America.
FURYON is a new band from the UK who like nothing more than to challenge expectations. Raised on a diet of heavy metal, prog, and classic rock, FURYON mix all these components for a truly unique and contemporary sound. Delivering huge rock radio friendly songs, with technically challenging, yet infectiously catchy musicianship. Dedicated to one sole purpose, making hard hitting songs that will stand the test of time. “"Our music is good songs with touches of intelligence” says singer Matt Mitchell, “There are a many different moods that come out from this album and all the songs have meaning and substance. Heavy and Melodic! That is what FURYON and this album 'Gravitas' is about".

What separates FURYON from the crowd is the sheer quality of their musicianship. Boasting two truly world class guitarists in the form of Chris Green and Pat “The Shred” Heath, FURYON have few peers when it comes to the quality of their iconic riffs, and jaw dropping solos. Backing them up is one of the tightest rhythm sections the rock world has to offer with the awesome combination of Lee Farmery, and Alex (Nickel) Bowen. Leading from the front is the outstanding vocal versatility of Matt Mitchell, whose emotion drenched voice effortlessly moves between melodic and crunchingly heavy. “We really have been inspired by many bands over the time (as all musicians and writers are)” continues Matt, “but for this album inspirations from bands like Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, Tool, Mastodon, Alter Bridge and Iron Maiden spring to mind”.

In 2009, after a sell out tour, and accompanying EP, FURYON set about the serious business of writing their debut album. The early demo’s reached the ears of US producer Rick Beato (SHINEDOWN, FOZZY), and a powerful and symbiotic relationship was formed. “Our hook up with Rick Beato was through Kip Winger” recalls Matt. “We toured with Winger on their Karma tour and we had spoken with Kip about the band Shinedown and how we liked there productions. Kip hooked us up with Rick and to our delight he was interested in doing the album. Rick is a truly great Producer and writer”.

Released independently on a low profile and later covermounted on Metal Hammer UK, “Gravitas” received already rave responses from the press, including:

“I’ve seen hundreds of unsigned & unknown band in my career. Only a handful of them made me stand up and take any notice. Only one of them made me do that from the very first listen and that one band was FURYON.” Chris Ingham (Group Publisher Classic Rock, Metal Hammer)
“Brighton’s FURYON are the latest and arguably greatest metal band of the modern era…” Dom Lawson (Metal Hammer UK)
“Do you like massive hooks? Do you like world-class guitar playing? Do you like music you can bang your head to, stamp your foot to, drive to and f*** to? Yes? …then, even if you’ve not yet heard them, FURYON are already one of your favourite bands.” Alex Baker (Kerrang! Radio)
“Furyon almost crashed the airwaves when they came on my radio show, I’ve never had so many listeners tune in. They deserve to be stars. They deserve to play stadiums.”Louise Brown (Presenter Totalrock Radio/Editor Terrorizer Magazine)
“It has real underlying guitar driven fury” Classic Rock Magazine UK

“Gravitas” will be released on Frontiers Records with the following tracklisting: Disappear Again; Stand Like Stone; Souvenirs; Don't Follow; New Way of Living; Voodoo Me; Fear Alone; Wasted on You; Our Peace Someday; Desert Suicide; Voodoo Me (acoustic)*; Souvenirs (acoustic)*
* Bonus tracks

Enjoy the videoclip of the awesome first single “Disappear Again” following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEClIzmdBE8 - The song can also be streamed on the Frontiers Records webradio: www.frontiers.it/webradio
Frontiers is now releasing this stunning debut worldwide with 2 bonus tracks. Pay attention: FURYON are destined to stardom!

Weblinks:

www.frontiers.it /
www.furyon.net

Band:

Matt Mitchell - Vocals

Chris Green - Guitars

Pat Heath - Guitars

Alex "Nickel" Bowen - Bass

Lee Farmery - Drums

CHAINFIST / BLACK OUT SUNDAY (2010)

2012-01-18T21:16:00.000+02:00

CHAINFIST is a Danish metal band from Slagelse/Copenhagen/Kolding and consists of Jackie Petersen (vocals), Michael Kopietz (guitar), Jesper Heidelbach (drums) and Braca Pedersen (bass). Some of these guys have previously been members of bands like, Infernal Death, Epicenter, Panzerchrist and Frozen Sun.

The album kicks off with the heavy and completely in-your-face "Free Me". It's a kinda of old-school meets 'modern' heavy rocker with thundering guitars and aggressive vocals. "Edge Of The World" comes next and it's a more straight forward track with solid arrangements and a 'catchier' melody! Double kickin' drums, heavy as hell guitars, thrashier in parts, and more up-tempo rhythms in "Evolution". "Be A Man" has a nice groove while it continues in the same heavier paths. "Have You Ever" is, in my humble opinion, the weakest tune here. "Stay" is a very interesting song. It starts slowly with a very emotional and 'dark' melody and, then, somewhere in the song's middle, exploses to a heavy metal thunder! "In Your Face" says it all while "Show Me" hinters some proggy elements. "Clown" is one of the heaviest songs here and "Carpe Diem" is one of my favourite tracks from this album. "Black Out" is an overall good tune and the album closes with the instrumental "Schhwh".

Bottom line is that this is a very interesting release. It's heavy, aggressive, melodic and it has a 'dark' and melancholic vibe in some parts. The musicianship is tight and the band seems to have a bright future if they are going to continue with the same passion. I'm waitin' to listen their up-coming album to make my final conclusions!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 7/10

Track List : 01. Free Me, 02. Edge Of The World, 03. Evolution, 04. Be a Man, 05. Have You Ever, 06. Stay, 07. In Your Face, 08. Show Me, 09. Clown, 10. Carpe Diem, 11. Black Out, 12. Shchwh

http://www.chainfist.net/

Little Angels confirmed for Download 2012!!!

2012-01-17T06:59:00.000+02:00

On July 2nd 1994 the Little Angels played their final gig to a sold out Royal Albert Hall in London. Toby Jepson, Bruce Dickinson, Mark Plunkett, Jimmy Dickinson & Mark Richardson took their final bow, shook hands and brought to an end the life of one of the UK’s finest rock bands, splitting up at the height of their popularity. In June 2012 the Little Angels will make their long overdue return. Toby, Bruce, Mark, Jimmy & Rich will re-unite for a special guest performance at the Download Festival, Castle Donnington.
http://www.littleangelsofficial.com/site/

Voodoo Highway song "Till It Bleeds" For Free Download

2012-01-16T20:55:00.000+02:00

Italian hard rockers Voodoo Highway, wishing you an ultrarocking 2012 and to thank everyone for the great help you all gave to the band in 2011 in making it a great year, will make available for TOTALLY FREE DOWNLOAD their song "Till It Bleeds" from January Monday 16th to Sunday 22nd... so be fast!

You can easily download the song on Voodoo Highway's facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/VOODOO-HIGHWAY/107889722591097
on Reverbnation at the following address: www.reverbnation.com/voodoohighwayitaly
Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iKhXr_H7f0

JEFF SCOTT SOTO’s return to ROCK on « Damage Control » out in the Spring on Frontiers !

2012-01-16T17:31:00.000+02:00

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of JEFF SCOTT SOTO’s fifth studio album “Damage Control” on March 23rd in Europe and March 27th in North America. Extraordinary performer and amazing vocalist throughout, Jeff Scott Soto blasts through these hard rocking tracks with energy and masters the transition smoothly from heavy rock to a delicate ballad. For his new album “Damage Control”, Jeff has turned to many of his past influences and most requested aspects of his career by blending the art of Melodic Rock with Hard Rock throughout.

“I feel Damage Control is more of a return to what my fans would expect to hear from me. It’s a perfect blend of my first two solo albums with Frontiers Records; Prism and Lost in the Translation, but also mixes in some of my favorite moments of my past bands such as Talisman and Soul SirkUS” tells Jeff. “It is heavy, AOR, hard rock with loads of great riffs and melodies”

“Damage Control” was recorded in the fall of 2011 and is completed with appearances and co-writing along with his former and current band mates together with many guests including Jamie Borger and Nalley Påhlsson (Treat), Casey Grillo (Kamelot), Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger) and legendary Y&T founding member Dave Meniketti. Jeff recalls: “Y&T drummer Mike Vanderhule played drums on a track and suggested I bring Dave on but, as he is a long time friend and one on the ‘wish list’ of people I would have loved to have, I didn’t want to get an excuse that he was too busy or not interested, to my surprise I got neither... he was willing to do it and I was not only grateful but beyond pleased to work with another musical hero!”

The album will be released in two exclusive configurations; the basic version in CD jewel box will include 11 songs, while the deluxe edition in digipak format has an additional 3 bonus tracks and a DVD. Full tracklisting is below:

CD: Give A Little More, Damage Control, Look Inside Your Heart, Die A Little, Take U Down*, If I Never Let Her Go, Tears That I Cry, BonaFide, Elena*, Krazy World, How To Love Again, AfterWorld, NeverEnding War, Afraid To Die* (* Bonus tracks only available on the Deluxe Edition.)

DVD: Look Inside Your Heart (videoclip); NeverEnding War (videoclip); Damage Control (videoclip); EPK interview.

Jeff Scott Soto is currently planning tour dates that will support the release of the new record: “The plan is to do as much touring as possible wherever the World will have me. I plan to promote this album with a proper touring regiment!” concludes Jeff. Get ready for “Damage Control”, it will rock your World!

The first single “Look Inside Your Heart” can be streamed in full on Frontiers Records’ webradio: www.frontiers.it/webradio - the official trailer can be enjoyed following this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHMnFbmxEuM

ROSEWOOD FESTIVAL PROUDLY PRESENTS : WORK OF ART (SWEDEN)

2012-01-16T17:08:00.002+02:00

[1992-1995] Work Of Art was formed in 1992 when Herman and Robert met while they both attended SÖL school of music. They quickly took a liking in each others songwriting and soon started to record demos together. Herman brought along his friend Lars to play keyboard and sing backup. However, the task of finding a singer was harder than expected and band was temporarily laid on ice. Meanwhile, being exposed to a lot different styles of music while studying, Herman and Robert soon ended up in a lot of different projects that musically had very little in common with WOA. Upon graduating from school in 1995 the band went their separate ways.

[1998-2000] In 1998 Herman brought up the idea to start recording again, this time with Lars on vocals. Being a bit reluctant at first, Robert soon changed his mind when he heard the first results of Lars singing their songs. During the following year the guys worked on a bunch of songs in Lars' Krater studio. Four songs made it to the mixing stage in summer of 1999.

Only now, Lars became busy with other projects and suggested that the band should temporarily be put on hold for the time being. [2002-2007] Getting tired of waiting, Herman and Robert, recorded the basic tracks for 8 new songs and decided to look for a new vocalist. Once again, Lars was asked to help out, this time as a recording engineer. Lars invited the band to his studio for a drum recording session. Luckily, when Lars heard the new material, it didn't take long before he expressed his desire to sing with the band again.

Discography: Artwork (2008), In Progress (2011)
Band Members: Lars Säfsund, Robert Säll, Herman Furin
Work of Art official site: http://www.woa.se/
Work of Art fb page: https://www.facebook.com/musicofworkofart
Rosewood Festival fb page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rosewood-Festival/166363113407571?ref=ts

Third album for Dynazty !!

2012-01-14T21:42:00.000+02:00

The new album will be released in late February and it's titled "Sultans of Sin". The titles of the songs are: 1. Come Alive, 2. Raise Your Hands, 3. Land of Broken Dreams, 4. Falling, 5. More Than a Man, 6. Love Junkie, 7. The One to Blame, 8. Back Again, 9. Bastards of Rock & Roll, 10. Sultans of Sin. (http://www.dynazty.com/)

BEYOND THE BRIDGE / THE OLD MAN AND THE SPIRIT (2012)

2012-01-14T20:53:00.000+02:00

The Beyond the Bridge is a German Progressive Rock / Metal band started in 1999 with the name "Fallout". In mid 2005, the guitarist Peter Degenfeld-Schonburg decided to 're-open' the band under the name "The Old Man and the Spirit". For the next five years and after endless hours jamming with keyboardist Christopher Tarnow, he began to give heart and soul to this project.

With the additions of Dominik Stotzem on bass, Herbie Langhans on vocals and Fabian Maier on drums, the band started the recordings for their first album in 2008 and this year it's ready to be served to the public from the Frontiers Records. Also, here I must mention that the singer Dilenya Mar is the newest member of the band as the 'chosen one' by Peter Degenfeld-Schonburg after a classic Jazz concert and was impressed by the possibilities.

“The Old Man and the Spirit” deals with the polarity of human sensuousness and superhuman awareness. The latter is embodied by the character of the Spirit. She is the personification of all wisdom and awareness that is unachievable to mankind, however, lacks of the ability to feel. Her opponent, the character of the Old Man, is presented as a bon vivant who has lived through all highs and lows of human sensation. Steadied by his old age, he searches for a sense, for a coherence, for the meaning of his life in the maelstrom of transiency. As the story unfolds, the Spirit convinces the Old Man that there is no way for Man to overcome the limits of human perception. They can only be transgressed with the help of the Spirit's wisdom.

On the track now, as I said, this is a band that 'owns' the sport and this is evident in their music. Each member of the band is also a music teacher, everyone in his instrument. Quality Progressive Rock / Metal with loud guitars, pure and passionate vocals, brilliant production and stunning orchestrations are the things you hear in "The Old Man & The Spirit". While I am not a fan of either the Progressive nor the concept albums, I can say that this left me with a sweet taste after the very first hearing. A movement that does not fatigue the listener since the transitions are several especially impressive vocals of both singers will not leave anyone unmoved. Try it!

Heavy Paradise's Rating : 7/10

Track List : 1. the call, 2.the apparition, 3.triumph of irreality, 4. the spring of it all, 5. world of wonders, 6.the primal demand, 7. doorway to salvation, 8.the struggle, 9.the difference is human, 10.where the earth and sky meet, 11.all a man can do

DARIO MOLLO-TONY MARTIN / THE THIRD CAGE (2012)

2012-01-14T20:51:00.000+02:00

Dario Mollo is one of the most famous guitarists / producers of the modern Italian Heavy Metal scene. The collaborations with big names such as Don Airey (Rainbow, Ozzy and Deep Purple), Kit Woolven (Thin Lizzy, Cradle of Filth and UFO) and Tony Martin and the impressive recording of the first Cage album, in 1999, gave him the ticket for a respectable career. Especially with Cage, he managed to upload the shares on the 'stock' values of the international Heavy Metal scene. For Tony Martin, on the other hand, need no specific recommendations because he is widely known for his work with Black Sabbath, Arrayan Path, Black Widow, and, of course, with Cage and as a solo artist with some really good albums!

With the very first notes of "Wicked World" gets anyone in the whole climate of "The Third Cage". And what is this? Powerful riffs, massive production and a Tony Martin to yield the greatest! In "Cirque Du Freak" speeds fall to get some more heavy and slow riffs and remember little from the 'big' Black Sabbath. More hard rock rhythms in "Oh My Soul" to get to the next more commercial tune of "One Of The Few" with the clever arrangements and its catchy chorus! The "Still In Love With You" can be considered a good song but offers something of value and "Can't Stay Here" is, in my humble opinion, the weakest track so far! In the next two songs, "Wardance" and "Don't Know What It Is About You", we have two pretty good moments in "The Third Cage" with powerful orchestrations and inspired guitar parts.

In conclusion, I would say that the "The Third Cage" is a pretty interesting release from Frontiers Records. The album is characterized by the excellent guitar of Dario Mollo, the possible interpretations of Tony Martin and, in general, interesting arrangements. For fans of melodic Heavy Metal is necessary to hear it!

Heavy Paradise's Rating : 7/10

Track List : 01. Wicked World, 02. Cirque Du Freak, 03. Oh My Soul, 04. One Of The Few, 05. Still In Love With You, 06. Can’t Stay Here, 07. Wardance, 08. Don’t Know What It Is About You, 09. Blind Fury, 10. Violet Moon, 11. Wicked World

CIRCLE II CIRCLE - NAMM Performance/Signing Details Revealed......

2012-01-14T07:26:00.000+02:00

CIRCLE II CIRCLE guitarist Andy Lee and bassist Mitch Stewart will be performing and signing for Aristides in Hall C, Booth #4768, at this year’s Winter National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) show, taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center from January 19th – 22nd. They will do a 20-minute set, Thursday - Sunday at 11:30 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM.

Circle II Circle recently announced a string of dates for Brazil, due to take place in March. The tour is billed as An Evening With Zak Stevens (ex-SAVATAGE); he will be accompanied by bassist/keyboardist Mitch Stewart.

As previously reported, Rollie Feldman (guitar) and Johnny Osborn (drums) parted ways with Circle II Circle. The official announcement from the band was the following:

“Circle II Circle would like to announce the return of guitarist Andy Lee to our full-time lineup after a leave-of-absence from touring this year. CIIC is also announcing the addition of our new drummer Jayson Moore. Jayson shares quite the musical history with Zak Stevens while they were growing up and he performed alongside Zak in the drum line at Brookland-Cayce High School in West Columbia, SC. The CIIC lineup (Zak Stevens - vocals, Mitch Stewart- bass/vocals, Andy Lee - guitars/vocals, and Jayson Moore - drums) is ready to go and will be featured at all live shows going forward and on the new CIIC album Seasons Will Fall to be released in spring/summer 2012.

Consequently this means the departures of guitarist Rollie Feldmann and drummer Johnny Osborn from the lineup. We want to wish Rollie and Johnny all the best in their future endeavours and successes and we thank them for all the hard work they put into CIIC while they were with us. Onward....”

Dates are as follows:

March

9 - Jundiai - Aldeia
10 - Sao Paulo - Manifesto
11 - Belo Horizonte - Stonehenge
13 - Porto Alegre - Dhomba
15 - Cataguases - Anfiteatro Ivan Muller Botelho
16 - Curitiba - Hangar
17 - Santo Andre - Central
18 - Campinas - Sebastian Bar

Danish metaller CHAINFIST sign with Rock N Growl!

2012-01-13T20:11:00.000+02:00

Denmark’s Groove Metaller “CHAINFIST“ have sign a worldwide management deal with Germany’s ROCK N GROWL MANAGEMENT. CHAINFIST just finished recording a 3 track promo at Six String Studios with Søren Jensen as producer, these 3 songs are going to be mixed and mastered by the Danish guru Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios.

CHAINFIST consists of Jackie Petersen (vocals), Michael Kopietz (guitar), Jesper Heidelbach (drums) and Braca Pedersen (bass). All members have the necessary background and experience it takes to play anytime, anywhere.

Michael Kopietz guitarist of Chainfist has this to say: ”A lot of thing are happening in the Chainfist Camp these days, and one of them is the signing with ROCK N GROWL. We’re really happy to be on the ROCK N GROWL arist roster, and looking forward to work together with Axel bringing this monster to life once again.” “We can’t wait to present the new songs for the fans on stage in 2012, so get ready peeps, once again here we come.”

“Furthermore we want to welcome the newest member in Chainfist, Thomas Hvisel, who will take over the lead guitar. Thomas’s skills on the guitar is without any question what we needed in Chainfist to take the songs to a higher level and as lead guitarist in the Danish version of “Pantera Jam”, there is no doubt, the leads will be killer, and together with the recording of Jackies vocals, fans should be looking very much forward to this.”

The new material is stronger, heavier and even more melodic than the songs we made on our debut CD Black Out Sunday. – Stay tuned for more news soon!”

Biography:

Based in Slagelse, Denmark, their roots firmly planted in the Hard Rock soil, CHAINFIST music send out tentacles in various directions inspired by none other than themselves. CHAINFIST have played around the country in numerous shows for the past 4 years, giving them the edge and experience it craves to make it big.

CHAINFIST is a unique live experience, giving a professional live show, a frantic and charismatic stage performance for which they have received much credit. The audience is simply carried away by vocalist Jackie Petersen who is always at the edge of the scene with a cut-through-steel-voice, the aggressive solos’ from Michael Kopietz, backed with a solid, heavy rhythm section by Jesper Heidelbach and Braca Pedersen. Some of these guys have previously been a member of bands like, Infernal Death, Epicenter, Panzerchrist and Frozen Sun.

In 2010, CHAINFIST turned to the studio to record their debut album “Black Out Sunday” which received several good reviews, with songs acclaimed to have great potential for the big live scene by critics. Straight forward heavy rock for the masses all based on life experience and lessons learned.

http://www.chainfist.net/
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CHAINFIST

Legendary female metal icon Lita Ford has signed a worldwide deal with SPV/Steamhammer.

2012-01-13T19:58:00.000+02:00

Legendary female metal icon Lita Ford has signed a worldwide deal with SPV/Steamhammer. Her new album entitled 'Living Like A Runaway' is tentatively set for a May 2012 release.

Best known for her work with The Runaways and her solo career, featuring hit singles "Kiss Me Deadly" and the Billboard charting duet "Close My Eyes Forever" with Ozzy Osbourne, Lita is ready to make a return to the throne as the queen of metal. "SPV gets who I am, my work, and what it takes to bring this project to life. I'm very excited to have them on my team," says Lita.
Lita spoke about her work with Gary Hoey on the album and the meaning of the album's title, ""Gary Hoey and I wanted to approach this record by getting back to basics. We want to strip away all the electronics and plug-ins and keep it to vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. Going back to basics is going back to what punk, metal and The Runways was for me.

'Living Like A Runaway' means freedom and empowerment. To do what I want and to pursue my dreams while answering to no one." SPV A&R Representative/Product Manager Olly Hahn commented on the signing of Lita Ford, ""When I bought 'Dancin' On The Edge' back in 1984 I never thought that I would ever sign Lita Ford to a label. But a dream of mine came true and it's a huge honor for us at SPV/Steamhammer to have one of the leading women in Rock n'Roll on our label."

Mike Portnoy's new band Flying Colors announce debut album

2012-01-12T19:33:00.000+02:00

Flying Colors, the spectacular new virtuoso prog/pop/rock band, featuring drummer Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater) and guitarist Steve Morse (Deep Purple), will release their eponymous debut album in the UK on Monday March 26th, followed by a US release on Tuesday March 27th.

Released by Music Theories Recordings, the debut album includes the talents of Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals), Dave LaRue (bass), Neal Morse (keyboards, vocals), Casey McPherson (lead vocals, guitar), and Steve Morse (lead guitar). "The album has bits and pieces of what you'd expect from each of us,” says Portnoy. “The sum of all its parts led to brand new, unchartered territory for everyone involved."

The formation of Flying Colors began with a simple idea: virtuoso musicians and a pop singer joining together to make new-fashioned music the old fashioned way. Refreshing, classic, old and new, the recordings are saturated with the many styles, tones and hues of the players who, in becoming a band, have delivered a unique fusion of vintage craftsmanship and contemporary music.

Make sure you check out SPECTRA's new releases in January

2012-01-12T19:30:00.000+02:00

2012 is already off to a great start! Make sure you check out SPECTRA's new releases in January:

Revolution – A Tribute to The Beatles (Spectra Records)

Local Groove – Tomer Bar Trio (Spectra Jazz)

......Stay tuned for more details!!!!!

Violet Gibson signs with logic(il)logic Records

2012-01-12T19:23:00.000+02:00

Italian rockers VIOLET GIBSON have inked a deal with logic(il)logic Records. The band's debut album, “American Circus”, will be released this spring. The band was born in 2007, when Mike and Tony met. After an intense writing phase, the two of them, along with and thanks to singer Matthew Brodtsy entering the band (initially called Last Vegas), brought to life their first demo.

The demo was distributed in several underground venues with huge success, confirmed also by the band’s ability to carry out live performances. When the band started writing the material for its first record, it experienced two major changes: guitarists El Taso and Joe Marchi joined the band and then its name changed to VIOLET GIBSON.

It took almost 2 years to complete the writing and recording process of the album, which includes 12 “never-before” published compositions and the band’s cover of the renowned song by Stevie Wonder “Superstition”.The record is called “American Circus” and was recorded at Studio 73 (Extrema, At the Soundawn, The Hormonauts), mixed at MB Studios by Mike Bettali and then masterized at Studio 73, under Riccardo “Paso” Pasini’s supervision.

VIOLET GIBSON’s sound can be summed up in two simple words: Power and Melody.

................“So Load The Gun And Start To Roll… Set Your Sights And Rock ‘Em All!!!” .............

Promo clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAlITHGEyo0
Label: http://www.logicillogic.net/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Violet-Gibson

HEAVY PARADISE PRESENTS ANASTASIO FARINI

2012-01-11T07:00:00.001+02:00

Anastasio Farini is a very talented guitarist that combines the neo-classical shred solos with the melodic hard rock style. At this time, the guitarist prepares a four-track cd single that will be released very soon. A sample of Farini's work you can watch below with the solid track "Lil' Angel". Also, there is another one track, which is called "Like My Way Of Love", that is been played at the local radio-stations.

In the track "Lil' Angel", Anastasio Farini collaborates with the very talented singer Dean Mess (WANTED) and in the "Like My Way Of Love" with Dennis Tee.

The lyrics are all written by Vicky Bek, the mix is done by Rias Samman and the mastering at Aeolia Studios from Teo Le Man.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Anastasio-Farini/149734925131510

LA STRANGE / QUEEN OF DISGUISE (2012)

2012-01-10T21:30:00.000+02:00

La Strange (Angela Castellani) is an Italian rock singer born in a little village in northern Italy. Her strong motivation, natural talent and passion together with a powerfull stage presence and un-ending commitment to her music are her main qualities. She started her career as a vocalist, singing in local cover bands where she began to build a reputation that led to work as a session singer for various dance productions. Alongside this, she began writing hew own songs and taking the first steps to realising her dream.

She continued performing her own material at many well-attended gigs, earning herself a loyal following before meeting up with UK producer James D. Bell in September 2009. A meeting that led to a development deal with All Out Music UK through which La Strange was born.

So, what do we expect from "Queen Of Disguise"? The answer is simple; passionate rock stuff with a modern edge, really brilliant vocal performances and a 'darker', in some parts, sound! The opening track, "Control", is a harder edged modern rock tune with a 'darker' vibe in it and a perfect starte of what's coming up next! "I'm Addicted To Some Thoughts" is another rock tune with attitude and a catchy chorus line while "Enjoy All Their Lies" features some emotional and at the same time passionate vocals by Angela Castellani. "Far Away" is a mid-tempo pop-rock track with a very nice melody and probably one of the highlights here! "Give It To Me" is a cover track of Michael Jackson's hit. She wanted to cover a M. Jackson tune 'cause his music inspired her the most during her childhood. By the way, I find this cover superb! "The Perfect Husband" is overall a good song and "In The Silence" is another 'modern' vibe one. "Keep Goin' On" which is one of the first tracks that La Strange has ever recorded is simply excellent! It's 'punchy', romantic with great arrangements. The self-titled track is one of the most aggressive tunes here and it's one of my personal favorites. The album closes with "You Finally Knocked Me". A slower tune which features a monsterous soloing!!

Closing, I have to admit that I'm impressed by this album! It has attitude, great performances, inspired melodies, very good arrangements and all the fonds to make La Strange a future star!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 8/10

Track List : Control, I'm Addicted To Some Thoughts, Enjoy All Their Lies, Far Away, Give It To Me, The Perfect Husband, In The Silence, Keep Goin' On, Queen Of Disguise, You Finally Knocked Me

INTERVIEW WITH HANS ZILLER OF BONFIRE

2012-01-09T18:22:00.000+02:00

Bonfire is one of the most successful German hard rock bands that made a huge impact to the hard rock world with albums such as their debut, "Don't Touch The Light", "Fireworks" and "Point Blank". After the 'grunge revolution', the band continued to release very good albums and last year they came back with the solid "Branded", an album which is a more back to their roots. Bonfire's founding member and guitarist/composer Hans Ziller talked to Heavy Paradise about the band's past, present and, also, their future plans in a very interesting interview. Enjoy!

heavy paradise : Hello Hans, it's a great honor to welcome you here in Heavy Paradise for this interview.

Ziller : It`s also an honour for me!

heavy paradise : Let me start this interview by telling you that three times that I saw you performing live in Thessaloniki, Greece were all absolutely amazing. You guys achieved to make a strong bond between you and your Greek fans! What is your opinion about the Greek audience? Have you learned some Greek words ?

Ziller : I think the Greek audience is very enthusiastic, much more than we know from for example the German audience. On the other side they give us always a very warm and friedly welcome. So we are always excited to play in Greece. I only know a few words like "Ya Mas" "kalimera", "ja su" and " se ayapao"...

heavy paradise : So, last year you have released the "Branded" album. That was a very good effort and a comeback to your roots. Are you satisfied with the result of your new album?

Ziller : Yes I`m very satisfied. I think the new album, Branded, goes back to the roots of fireworks with a modern influence. The comeback of Dominik is also a step forewords. He is a very good drummer.And we worked for the first time with Sebastian Roeder as engineer who is a very good man. He is doing the kind of sound we like very much. He also is our front of house engineer in our live concerts.

heavy paradise : Do you think that "Branded" fullfiled the expectations of Bonfire's long time fans for a harder edged album?

Ziller : Yes, we get a lot a fanresponse who tells us the same thing. Even the album was in the German Top 100 Album charts. So it is very successful over here.

heavy paradise : Allow me to take you many years back to your classic debut album "Don't Touch The Light" in 1986. Tell me, did you expect such a great career when you formed Bonfire?

Ziller : I started my first Band at the age of 12 named Cacumen. And my dream was alway to get a professional musician. But I knew that you have to work very hard on such a career. So finally my dreams came true.

heavy paradise : If you had to choose your favourite Bonfire album, the one that has the most sentimental value for you, which would that be and why?

Ziller : Of course Fireworks! It was our first gold album and brought us from the 2nd into the first Leaque

heavy paradise : You are into this scene for a long time. You lived through the glory 80's hard rock music and you have a great career as a musician. What are in your opinion the differences between back then and nowadays in the hard rock scene?

Ziller : Well in the 80 's Rock Music was the main stream music that runs in all the big radios and tv stations. So it was a hip to have long hair and here that kind of music. I, nowadays, the main-stream turns into hip hop dance teccno and alternative music. Most of the people have very short hair and live a very fast life. Also the media changes from Vinyl-Albums to CDs and mp3`s. The people have Handy`s and Playstations-so they have no more money for Rock-Music. But it is getting better again.

heavy paradise : In 2003 you have released the "Free" album. An album that mixed-up the feelings of your fans. If you ask me I say that is a good one, different but a good one. Do you believe that the fans of hard rock are the most difficult? I want to say that we don't want big changes in regarding of the sound of our favorite bands. What is your opinion Hans?

Ziller : Well I think the problem of "Free" was the sound. It was mixed very dry and rough, so the songs didn't have the power they needed. I think if you would remix the Album with the sound of for example Branded, there would be no big difference between those Albums.

heavy paradise : What is the secret of Bonfire's success Hans? Or there isn't any secret at all and it's all about the chemistry that you have with Claus Lessmann and the rest of the band's members?

Ziller : 1. It´s the cemistry of Claus and me. 2. To stay true in the kind of music you make. 3. We are a very good live band. That`s what a lot of Bands don`t have especially in the Casting-szene.

heavy paradise : What are your influences?

Ziller : Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Lynyrd Skynyrd..

heavy paradise : So, are there any plans for a new Bonfire album or it's a bit early to ask that?

Ziller : Well we did that Live Album-Fireworks...still alive at the end of the year. So we have 2 albums to promote this year. And we will play the whole year live with this to Albums in the package.

heavy paradise : From the 'new' hard rock bands is there any, or more, that you are interested to listen?

Ziller : I like Nickelback. They have really good songs.

heavy paradise : If you had the chance to go back and change some things in your career what would that be? Are you regret of something that you haven't done?

Ziller : No, I would do the same again.

heavy paradise : Any plans for live performances in 2012? Is there any chance to see you again in our country?

Ziller: We will start playing Festivals from April on through Europe, and then play Halls and Clubs in Autumn. I hope we will play Greece again this year. We will know more in March I think.

heavy paradise : What are your future plans Hans? Are you involved with something else except Bonfire?

Ziller : Well I wrote 3 Songs for the new Vengeance Album. Perhaps I`m doing my side Project EZ Livin`again and make a second Album. But first we have the start the fireworks again....Bonfire alway have priority!

heavy paradise : At this point I have to thank you once again for accepting my invitation for this interview and to wish you all the best for 2012!

Ziller : Thank you, I wish you and all the greek fans a happy 2012 and stay heavy- Hans Ziller

FURYON to play Twitrfest 2 / UK!

2012-01-09T18:09:00.000+02:00

Not got your tickets yet to see FURYON, My Great Affliction, Triaxis, Dakesis, TRUCKER DIABLO, Peter Ellis' Monument, Bleeding Oath OFFICIAL, Valous Birmingham and others on Twitrfest 2 in Wakefield on the 25th of Feb 2012!

Get it here - Twitrfest 2 Tickets: http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user/?region=gb_northeast&query=detail&event=468622

After the good-time-had-by-all in Birmingham in 2011, Twitrfest returns. This time we’re in deepest, darkest Yorkshire as the cavalcade heads to The Snooty Fox in Wakefield on Saturday the 25th of Feb 2012.

Awesome at Twitrfest 1, awesome at Hammerfest, then on a whole new level with their show-stealing performance at the High Voltage festival. We aFinare way beyond excited to announce that the amazing Furyon are coming back for a second helping of Twitrfest madness. There surely won’t be many more chances to catch these guys in a small, sweaty venue so what are you waiting for, go get the hotel booked.

Paul Stanley Says New Album Is "Powerful, Heavy, Melodic And Epic - Mixing Starts Next Week"

2012-01-08T10:18:00.000+02:00

Paul Stanley has issued the following update: "Friday (yesterday, January 6th) we officially completed work on the new album. Listening to the tracks back to back is like sensory overload. Everyone who has heard any of it is completely blown away. Powerful, heavy, melodic and epic. It makes us very proud. You all will be too. Mixing starts next week."

Stanley revealed a few new song titles from their upcoming album, Monster, to Classic Rock magazine. They include:

'Shout Mercy'
'Out Of This World'
'Wall Of Sound'
'Hell Or Hallelujah'
'It's A Long Way Down'
'Back To The Stone Age'

"I wasn't interested in making an album unless I was in charge and no one agreed to it half-heartedly," says the singer and guitarist, taking a break from co-producing the record at Conway Studios in Hollywood. "The band's all there, all the time, and we cut the tracks all facing each other in the same room. Chemistry and camaraderie, that's essential. That's what made Sonic Boom so great, and this album is thunderously better."

ALICE COOPER - No More Mr Nice Guy Live Two-CD Due Next Month

2012-01-08T10:14:00.000+02:00

According to ALICE COOPER fan-site SickThingsUK, on February 13th, Concert Live will be releasing a two-CD remixed version of the London Alexandra Place show on October 29th, 2011 titled "No More Mr Nice Guy Live". SickThingsUK adds: "Concert Live have already released this recording as one of their instant live shows back in October, and the show has been aired on TV in both the UK and US, but this will apparently be a properly remixed version of this performance."

PAUL SABU ANNOUNCES BANGKOK RULES!

2012-01-07T08:01:00.000+02:00

Paul Sabu's new studio album which is to be released towards the end of March this year via Z Records will be entitled "BANGKOK RULES". The album includes the melodic anthem "Rock Don't Run" which is the lead track on the cover mounted cd on the current issue of Fireworks Magazine!

The album also includes "BANGKOK RULES" a powerfull rocker in the vain of Scream Until You Like It and the monumental "Live Or Die Tryin". Paul is Back with a capital B!!!!!!!!!! Don't forget that Paul Sabu will be appearing at Z Rock 2012 on May 5th. For details visit www.facebook.com/ZRECORDS.OFFICIAL

Chickenfoot brings Road Test tour to the UK next week

2012-01-07T07:52:00.000+02:00

Following the release of their acclaimed second album ‘III’, the hottest rock’n’roll band in the world, Chickenfoot, are gearing up to perform two “Road Test” concerts in the UK next week. As part of a short five-date European tour, Chickenfoot plays Manchester Academy (Sold Out) on Thursday January 12th, followed by London’s O2 Academy Brixton on Saturday January 14th. The Road Test concerts mark the second time Chickenfoot will perform in the UK. Alongside tracks from the eponymous debut album, Chickenfoot will perform songs from ‘III’ for the first time outside of America.

Featuring guitar hero Joe Satriani and ex-Van Halen members bassist Michael Anthony and frontman Sammy Hagar, Chickenfoot’s original drummer, Chad Smith, has temporarily handed his sticks over to the legendary Kenny Aronoff, who will join the band for the European dates.

Produced by Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Metallica), Chickenfoot III was co-released worldwide on Tuesday September 27th in exclusive and never-before-seen 3D packaging to critical acclaim. The album is released in the UK and Europe by Edel’s international rock and pop label, earMUSIC (www.ear-music.net).

“I am very proud of the new album,” says lead singer Sammy Hagar. “We called it Chickenfoot III because it's so good, and the songs are so tight, that it's like we jumped right past having to make a second record.” He adds, “We’ve established a real trust, Joe and I, we are truly bring out the best in one another, and that spreads to the whole band.”

http://www.chickenfoot.us/

FOOLS FOR ROWAN / TWISTED. TIED UP. TANGLED (2009)

2012-01-06T17:41:00.000+02:00

This is a very interesting band! "TWISTED. TIED UP. TANGLED" is the band's debut album and it's a fine example of pure modern rock sound with soaring vocal performances, great guitar licks and a tight musicianship. This Nashville fivesome consists of singer Erin Mullins, Jordan Cullen (drums), Andrew "Gibby" Williams (bass), Ryan Harrison Nanney (rhythm guitar) and Rachel Brandsness (lead guitar).

One of the strongest points of Fools For Rowan is their lead singer! Yes, Erin Mullins has a very strong and powerfull voice and in some parts reminds me of Pat Benatar and Blondie. The album starts off with the rockin' tune of "Burnt Around The Edges". Nice rhythm and great riffing in this little gem! "Take Me Down" has a 'darker' and modern sound with a memorable chorus line! "Dead" is a brilliant mid-tempo/ballad kinda track filled with Mullins' emotional vocals. Up-tempo rhythms again with the next song "Tangled" while in "Light Me Up" we see the more 'alternative' side of the band. "No" is another 'darker' tune and "I Don't Have The Strenght" is a nice pop-rock track but nothin really breathtakin'. The rest of the album flows enjoyable with the last song "Living Dangerously" which steals the impressions with its power and attitude!

All in all, this is a very good album with some excellent tunes! As I said above, I'm really impressed by Erin Mullin's vocal abilities which are givin' to the final result the extra something and the promise to rocket this band to a higher level!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 7,5/10

Track List : Burnt Around the Edges, Take Me Down, Dead, Tangled, Light Me Up, No , I Don’t Have the Strength, It’s Alright, Isn’t It Enough, Living Dangerously

PRIMAL FEAR / UNBREAKABLE (2012)

2012-01-06T08:24:00.001+02:00

Over the last years, Primal Fear achieved to build a strong reputation over their name in the Melodic Power Metal scene. Responsible for the creation of Primal Fear in the late of 1997 were Gamma Ray's Ralf Scheepers and the bassist/singer/producer Mat Sinner.

The band, also, has released eight studio recordings and two live ones. Their last album 16.6 – Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead”, achieved to 'climb' in the position number 46 at German charts and to put the band as headliners in the ProgPower Festival in Atalanta, U.S. After a sensational tour through South America in spring 2011, more dates in Europe plus an outstanding appearance on the 2011 edition of the Wacken Open Air, the band was fired up to enter the recording studio to start tracking their ninth album “UNBREAKABLE”.

The target was crystal clear - producer & bassist Mat Sinner: “After touring for two years without breaks, the guys realized the fan favourites very well and we wrote an untamed, powerful and crushing album together”. “Unbreakable” was produced by Mat Sinner, engineered and mixed by Achim Koehler & the House Of Music studios and some more studios in Germany & Sweden between summer and autumn 2011.

So, in "Unbreakable" we are going to hear a tight as hell band with a great musicianship, a crystal clear production, some really impressive riffs and solos from two of the most talented guitar players nowadays, Alex Beyrodt and Magnus Karlsson, and some powerfull performances! Highlights are "Strike", "And There Was Silence", "Give Em Hell" and the huge power ballad "Born Again". Also, a very good moment in this album is the more proggressive tune of "Where Angels Die".

Overall, this is an extremely interesting release from one of the best today's Melodic Metal acts. Power, melodies, emotions and a huge guitar work in a solid album that you have to check it out!

HeavyParadise's Rating : 7,5/10

Track List : 1. Unbreakable (Part1), 2. Strike, 3. Give ‘Em Hell, 4. Bad Guys Wear Black, 5. And There Was Silence, 6. Metal Nation, 7. Where Angels Die, 8. Unbreakable (Part 2), 9. Marching Again, 10. Born Again, 11. Blaze Of Glory, 12. Conviction, 13. Night Of The Jumps (Bonus Track), 14. Bad Guys Wear Black (Video)

Nashville band to release new album and music video in 2012

2012-01-05T20:23:00.000+02:00

Los Angeles, CA- Fools for Rowan, the Nashville based rock band, is set to release a new album and music video in 2012.

It has been almost two years since the band has released new material. Fools For Rowan has written most of their record while on tour over the last year and recently started recording the new songs. In order to achieve the aforementioned goal, the group needs the help of their dedicated fans. The band has launched a Kickstarter campaign to assist in their efforts. The powerhouse rock group, Fools For Rowan, is defined by their soaring vocals, powerful guitar licks and intense personal lyrics.

The band has grown a large committed fan base partly due to the success of their first album, Twisted. Tied Up. Tangled. The album's first single, "Burnt Around the Edges" received acclaim from the college-age demographic in both the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the second single, "Dead" received spins on Top 40, College and Modern Rock radio. In addition, the video for the song was featured on Fuse TV. Due to their zealous live performance, Fools For Rowan has recently had the privilege of sharing the stage with such artists as: Evanescence, Trapt, Halestorm, and Sick Puppies.

Kickstarter is an online pledge system that funds creative projects. The Kickstarter campaign, that will raise money for the band's new album and a music video, has already been initiated online. Fools For Rowan offers a fantastic array of different prizes such as an autographed drumstick, a concert set list, band merchandise, arm wrestling contests, and even a dinner date with members of the band!

"It's been two years since our last album, so we're really anxious to get our new music into the hands of our fans," says lead vocalist, Erin Mullins. Fans will have until January 21st to help the band meet its goal. As always, the group is looking ahead. Fools For Rowan will continue to tour the U.S. in hopes of spreading the power of rock 'n' roll!

To learn more about Fools for Rowan's Kickstarter campaign visit http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/foolsforrowan/new-fools-for-rowan-album-and-music-video

HEAVENWOOD / ABYSS MASTERPIECE (2011)

2012-01-04T18:36:00.001+02:00

I could describe HEAVENWOOD as a musical « melting pot ». In fact, HEAVENWOOD is a Portuguese Metal band, more precisely a band that plays a Dark/Gothic-Metal music alterning growl and clean vocals. It’s, also, a trio composed by singer Ernesto Guerra, guitar players Ricardo Dias and Bruno Silva (plus studio bass player Paulo Chanoca and studio drummer Marcelo Aires, for recording needs).

This is the fourth studio release from the band. A twelve track opus. It’s called Abyss Masterpiece. I think this title is a good musical indication; it means that HEAVENWOOD isn’t the kind of bands that loves happy atmosphere ! It’s more dark atmosphere, as I said previously.

So, what about Abyss Masterpiece ? Bad ? Average ? Great ? I can tell you that opus is a solid and decent effort, bringing good melodies. Intrusmental parts are grandiloquent and a little bit symphonic, vocal parts show you a perfect mixture of growl and clean vocals. There’re great and sumptuous tracks, in my opinion, like for example "The Arcadia Order", "Winter Slave", "Goddess Presiding Over Solitude" or the instrumental song "Her Lament". However, I think the aggressive vocals spoil a little bit their music ... I know, some here would prefer as it is. As a friend said, it’s only a matter of taste ! And hey! Don’t forget my opinion is ONE opinion out of many opinions !

To conclude, "Abyss Masterpiece" is dedicated to all curious Metal fans, but, also, lovers of darkside music. It’s a surprising opus, for sure !

Review by Axldobby

----
Tracklist :
01- The Arcadia Order
02- Morning Glory Clouds (In Manus Tuas Domine)
03- Goddess Presiding Over Solitude
04- Once A Burden
05- Winter Slave
06- Leonor
07- Poem For Matilde
08- Fading Sun
09- September Blood
10- Sudden Scars
11- Like Yesterday
12- Her Lament

GUITAR GREAT ERIC JOHNSON ANNOUNCES JANUARY "EVENING WITH" U.S. TOUR

2012-01-04T16:51:00.000+02:00

Few rock guitarists can take an audience on an unforgettable journey like Eric Johnson can – who has been delivering stellar recordings and unforgettable live performances for decades by this point. And come January, Johnson will give fans more stand-out concert memories to cherish, as it has been announced that he will be touring the U.S., in support of his latest album, 'Up Close.'

The string of dates run from January 4-29 and will be a rare treat as most shows will be an evening with Eric Johnson as Eric and his band (bassist Chris Maresh and drummer Wayne Salzmann) will be the only performers – except for six dates, which will feature talented acoustic guitarist Andy McKee (1/6 NYC, 1/7 Phoenixville, 1/12 Chicago, 1/14 Chicago, 1/18 Anaheim, and 1/19 Los Angeles), while Peppino wil open 1/21 in Visalia.

Johnson will be performing on a variety of stellar equipment that he fully endorses, including a newly released “Signature Series” speaker by Eminence and” “Fuzz Face” by Dunlop (distortion pedal) retro'd back to Hendrix model. Exactly a year ago, the aforementioned 'Up Close' was released – Johnson's sixth studio release over, which featured such special guests as Sonny Landreth, Steve Miller, Jimmie Vaughan, and Jonny Lang, and was later reissued as a beautiful 180-gram vinyl edition.

Soon, guitar aficionados will get a chance to ring in the New Year by experiencing guitar great Eric Johnson's music the best way imaginable - on a nearby concert stage.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: http://www.ericjohnson.com/

ERIC JOHNSON TOUR DATES (2012 'Up Close Tour,' with Chris Maresh And Wayne Salzmann):

Jan-04 Wed Foxborough, MA Showcase Live
Jan-05 Thu Bay Shore, NY Boulton Center
Jan-06 Fri New York, NY BB King's
Jan-07 Sat Phoenixville, PA Colonial Theatre
Jan-08 Sun Alexandria, VA Birchmere
Jan-10 Tue Baltimore, MD Soundstage
Jan-11 Wed Ferndale, MI The Magic Bag
Jan-12 Thu Chicago, IL House Of Blues
Jan-13 Fri ST Louis, MO Old Rock House
Jan-14 Sat Columbia, MO The Blue Note
Jan-18 Wed Anaheim, CA House Of Blues
Jan-19 Thu W. Hollywood, CA House Of Blues
Jan-21 Sat Visalia, CA Fox Theatre
Jan-22 Sun San Diego, CA House Of Blues
Jan-25 Wed San Francisco, CA Slim's
Jan-26 Thu Napa, CA Opera House
Jan-27 Fri Modesto, CA State Theatre
Jan-28 Sat Las Vegas, NV House Of Blues
Jan-29 Sun Phoenix, AZ Compound Grill

RHOPE / Turning Maybes Into Reality (2012)

2012-01-03T15:12:00.000+02:00

Rhope is a newcomer and this is the band's debut album. They achieve to sign with Bakerteam Records and "Turning Maybes Into Reality" will be released in February 27th. Their style can be characterized as great mix of Heavy Metal, Rock and stunning melodies. A groovy and stylish sound pervades the 12 songs of this new creature. The album was mixed by Diego Minach and Tancredi Barbuscia and mastered by Tom Baker (Deftones, Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, Sevendust) at Precision Mastering in Los Angeles. The striking album cover has been designed by Niklas Sundin (Cabin Fever Media - Dark Tranquillity), while the entire artwork has been created by Mike D (DarkicoN Design - Killswitch Engage).

The fact is that after a couple of listenings I'm not impressed of Rhope's music! And please don't get me wrong; I'm not saying that this album is bad. In my humble opinion, the mix of aggressive vocals along with harmonies, melodies and some other 'modern' heavier elements confused me a bit! The song that grabbed me and made me push the repeat button for a second time was "Parallel". This is an interesting tune with a 'darker' melodic vibe in it but, once again, the 'brutal', in some parts, vocal parts are mixed my feelings! "False Needs" has a nice and 'thrashy' riffing and it's an overall good track while "Comedown" has a really 'catchy' rhythm and a cool melody. The last track, "Now", is also an interesting one.

All in all, this is album left me with mixed feelings. Not bad but, for sure, nothing really got me excited here! I liked some tunes but as I said above the 'brutal' vocal parts annoyed me the most. The music is overall solid and the guitar parts are the strongest thing here. The production is very good and I believe with a couple of changes in the near future this band can go further.
HeavyParadise's Rating : 5,5/10

Track List :

Slaves
Into The Box
Parallel
False Needs
Lust
Your Peace
Comedown
Truth Lies
Extinction Is Forever
Entropy Of Brain
Cut The Pressure
Now

IBERIA / REVOLUTION (2011)

2012-01-02T20:59:00.000+02:00

IBERIA is one of the most important national bands in Portugal since the late 80's. They were formed back in 1986 and they've parted ways ten years later but they have released albums that have become authentic classics such as "Iberia" in 1988 and "Heroes Of The Wasteland" in 1990.

In 2007, two of the founding members of the band, Joao Sergio (bass) and Francisco Landum (guitars) have 'agreed' with "Espacial" Record Company to re-release the band's first two albums. In 2009, the band got together again for an explosive live performance at In Live Cafe (Portugal) and in 2010 the band started to write and record a brand new album. The result of Iberia's work is this album which is titled "Revolution". In this album, we, also, find a very special appearance of Fernando Ribeiro (Moonspell) and a remake of Iberia's biggest hit back in the 80's "Hollywood".

In this album, there are plenty of tracks that impressed me such as the hard rockin' anthemic "Revolution" with its catchy chorus and the nice riffs, the pure 80's rocking tune of "Angel", the rhythmic "Hot In Love", the heavier "Turning Back" and the re-make of the band's classic "Hollywood" are the highlights here. Except of couple of average tracks, the rest of the songs here are all well-crafted and the quality of the songs are reflected in the whole album.

All in all, this is an extremely interesting release of solid hard rock music with some heavier elements full of nice hooks and choruses, very good guitar work and a tight musianship. Get it!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 8/10

Track List :

1- Code Red; 2- Revolution; 3- All Night Flying; 4- Angel; 5- Stooge; 6- She Devil; 7- Turning Back; 8- Dizzy; 9- Hot In Love; 10- Ride; 11- Tired (Leave Me Alone); 12- N.I.T.R.O.; 13- Tommy‟s Frequency; 14- Hollywood

LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM / NINE LIVES (Japan Edition, 2012)

2012-01-02T10:13:00.000+02:00

I'm a big fan of this band. Last Autumn's Dream is one of the best melodic hard rock band's in the last decade and they have released some really stunning albums. "Nine Lives" is their brand new effort and it has just been released in Japan. The European release is planned for this month. Following their last superb album, "Yes", these Swedes are back with another high-quallity melodic hard rock stuff and they have set the base to be high in this year's Top lists in every melodic webzine around the world!

The band consists of Mikael Erlandsson on lead vocals and keyboards, Andy Malecek on guitars, Jamie Borger on drums and Nalle Pahlsson on bass. The album starts with "In A Perfect World". This is a 'classic' LAD rocker with a huge melody and a catchy as hell chorus line! "Nine Lives" has an inspired riff, a very good harmony and Mikael Erlandsson passionate performances. The chorus is once again memorable. "Is This Just Another Heartache" features some more 'modern' AOR elements and it's the album's, so far, most commercial tune! In "Merry-Go-Round" we have a catchy rocker while "Golden Cage" is the highlight here! An awesome melodic hard rocker with an amazing melody that sticks in your mind from the start and makes you wanna whistle it for days! Perfect! "All I Can Think Of" is another commercial track with a nice rhythm. "Megalomania" and "The Last To Know" are both superb melodic pieces with catchy chorus lines and solid guitar work. "Angel Eyes" is heavier and features Andy Malecek's superb guitar skills! "We Never Said Goodbye" is a mid-tempo 'romantic' rocker with a relaxing melody. "Waited A Long Time" is a Japan bonus cut. A nice track! The last track, "Don't Let Love Fade Away", is a huge ballad! A very emotional track and Mikael Erlandsson really shines on here. Amazing performance!

Overall, this is the perfect appetizer for 2012! A well-crafted melodic album full of great songs and emotions. The guitar parts are solid, the vocal performances by a such a great vocalist are awesome and the rhythm section is solid too. If you are a fan of this band you are going to buy this gem. If you are a fan of this gerne go out and check this album....it rocks!
HeavyParadise's Rating : 9/10

Track List :
01 - In A Perfect World
02 - Nine Lives
03 - Is This Just Another Heartache
04 - Merry-Go-Round
05 - Golden Cage
06 - All I Can Think Of
07 - Megalomania
08 - The Last To Know
09 - Angel Eyes
10 - We Never Said Goodbye
11 - Waited A Long Time (Japan bonus track)
12 - Don't Let Love Fade Away

THE MFC DRAGON SLAYER ALL STAR PROJECT / LET'S UNITE IN ROCK (cd-single, 2012)

2012-01-02T08:59:00.000+02:00

Metal For Cancer is an idea put together by Richard Ofsoski, where carefully selected quality Heavy Metal and hard rock artists contribute music for digital download to help raise funds for the fight against cancer.

Let's Unite In Rock was written by Henrik Flyman (Evil Masquerade) to the benefit of Metal For Cancer. The impressing thing in this tune is that from the very first notes you will be hit by an old-fashioned Heavy rockin' track in the vain of the great Dio's earlier works! The guitar riffs and solos are simply awesome and the vocal work stunning. So, if you are interesting in buying one copy, you can go to :

http://www.metalforcancer.com/ and buy a copy of the song. It’s for a very good cause and all income is donated to the AUSTRALIAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION.

HeavyParadise's Rating : 9/10

STEELHEART NEWS : Mili Releases Fan Submitted Steelheart Acoustic Video at Midnight on New Years

2012-01-01T12:47:00.000+02:00

Mili decided to release a new fan submitted video at midnight on New Year's as a way to say "THANK YOU" to all the fans! We appreciate all the love and plan on giving plenty of love in 2012 and beyond! Mili and Steelheart wishes everyone a very HAPPY and SAFE NEW YEAR! There are a lot of new and good things coming this way in 2012 that we can't wait to share with you all.

http://www.steelheart.com

DAUGHTRY / BREAK THE SPELL (2011)

2012-01-01T09:18:00.000+02:00

This is the third release by the 'modern' rockers Daughtry. "Break The Spell" is the follow-up effort to the successful and platinum selling "Leave This Town" in 2009. The quintet fronted by the American 'Idol' Chris Daughtry and made a huge impact to the rock scene with their debut album back in 2006.

According to Chris, the album is "more upbeat and positive lyrically" and also stated that the album sounds "nothing like the previous two". Chris wrote all the songs with band guitarists Josh Steely and Brian Craddock, bassist Josh Paul, and collaborated with Marti Frederiksen, Busbee and Brett James. The Bon Jovi-esque rockers along with some more 'modern' mid-tempos and a few superb ballads are in perfect balance in this release and, in my opinion, all the above mentioned things make this album their best to date. The 'Renegade' which opens the album is a punch in your face with its attitude and the hard hittin' guitars. An excellent rocker! "Louder Than Ever" is anthemic with a feel-good vibe in it while 'Crawling Back To You", the album's first single, is another one anthemic pop-rock monster which is written by the mighty Marti Frederiksen.

All in all, this is another high-quality rock release by these guys! The songwrittting is tighter than ever and the songs are all very good to excellent without any filler in sight. Chris Daughtry's vocal performances are strong and in-your-face and the guitar sound is big and 'fat'. The production rocks and the rhythm section is solid! What else do you want to tell you to convince you that this is a big must have album?

HeavyParadise's Rating : 9/10

Track List :

Renegade
Crawling Back To You
Outta My Head
Start Of Something Good
Crazy
Break The Spell
We're Not Gonna Fall
Gone Too Soon
Losing My Mind
Rescue Me
Louder Than Ever
Spaceship

Deluxe Edition Bonus Tracks :

Who's They
Maybe We're Alreday Gone
Everything But Me
Lullaby

MYON / CALL OF THE SENSES (2012 / cd-single)

2012-01-01T09:16:00.000+02:00

Myon brings the danger and adrenaline back into rock with their new single and video “Call Of The Senses”. “The song is a story about extreme adrenaline search, so we needed a video that really shows all about what experiencing the extremes can be” Says the band's leader Mika Pohjola.

Tragically, on 18th of December 2011, Niko Vainikainen, who can be seen in some scenes in the video, died in an extreme way as he lived. We want to respect his memory with this video as well. For he truly was a person of extremes and lived his life to the fullest, following the call of his senses.

The song starts with some beautiful keyboards harmonies and Jukka Nummi's sensational vocals. Then it comes harder without loosing any of its brilliant melody and the track explodes when it comes to the chorus! The fact is that the more I listen to this song, the more I like it! The chorus, the rhythm, the vocals, everything is in perfect balance here! Closing, I have to say that, if the album will sound like this one, it's gonna be a real blast! Well done!

HeavyParadise's Rating : 10/10

ANTHRAX / WORSHIP MUSIC (2011)

2011-12-29T21:59:00.000+02:00

ANTHRAX is one of the most well-known Thrash bands, an 80's dinosaur, but, also, a member of the Big Four Tour (along with Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer which is a kind of club exclusively for the four famous and media extreme musical legends. Well, to be honest, I'm not a specialist of this music wave and I'm not addicted either. But sometimes, I can really appreciate some gems and bands from this scene. This is the case with ANTHRAX and their latest effort "Worship Music".

ANTHRAX seems to come back to their roots, replacing singer (again !) John Bush by Joey Belladona and playing their typical Heavy Thrash Metal music. I mean aggressive vocals added to strong but still melodic guitar parts (which cut like a sharp knife), bass and solid drum parts. Nothing new in ANTHRAX's planet, even if they include some musical experimentations, but I've to admit that "Worship Music" is a really great opus ! It kicks my ass, for sure ! I'm really fond of songs like Earth On Hell, The Devil You Know, Fight'em 'Till You Can't or The Giant.

The only small bad point I could tell is the lack of huge high-pitched vocals from Joey Belladona. It seems that he's not able today to perform as before ... But hey ! No matter how old is he, he still 'has it' ! Finally, I could say that I excepted nothing from those musicians, however, they really surprised me with "Worship Music". A pure 2011's gem ! Get it if you appreciate melodic music with a higher and heavy level !

Review by Axldobby

Track List :
01. Worship Music, 02. Earth On Hell, 03. The Devil You Know, 04. Fight'Em Till You Can't, 05. I'm Alive, 06. Hymn 1, 07. In The End, 08. The Giant, 09. Hymn 2, 10. Judas Priest, 11. Crawl, 12. The Constant, 13. Revolution Screams + New Noise (hidden bonus)

NICKELBACK / HERE AND NOW (2011)

2011-12-29T21:56:00.000+02:00

Since the band's biggest hit, "How You Remind Me", that put Nickelback into the charts and made them a 'bigger' name, they have released several albums and have achieved to build a strong reputation around this Canadian quartet. Their last effort, "Dark Horse", in 2008, was a very successful release and the band's die-hards were anxious for their next step. So, nowadays, Nickelback have released the brand new "Here And Now" and the question is if the band achieved to continue its successful career?

What we have here is a 11 track album full heavy riffs, melodies and Chad Kroeger's passionate performances. The album starts off with the 'metallic' "This Means War". It's an 'angry' and in-your-face rocker that's gonna blow you away! "Bottom's Up" comes next and it's a groovier tune with a nice solo. "When We Stand Together"....damn what a song! It's anthemic, it has a cool acoustic vibe in it and it could be a daily radio air-play! "Midnight Queen" is a hard-hittin rocker while "Gotta Get Some" is overall a good tune! "Lullaby" is a 'classic' Nickelback song with a huge chorus line and a melody that you wanna whistle for days. Well done! "Kiss It Goodbye" is one of my favourite tracks from the new album and "Tryin' Not To Love You" is one of the best tracks that this band has ever recorded. It's a simple amzing mid-tempo pop rocker with a romantic vibe in it! "Holding On To Heaven" is a good one and the last two tracks of "Here And Now", "Everything I Wanna Do" & "Don't Ever Let It End", are both good songs.

All in all, this is a very interesting release from one of my favourite 'new' bands. I have to say that I'm not impressed 100% by its final result 'cause I wanted some catchier and more memorable choruses by these guys. But lets not complain and focus to the music which is solid with nice arrangements and some very good songs.
HeavyParadise's Rating : 7,5/10

Track List : 1. “This Means War”/ 2. “Bottoms Up”/ 3. “When We Stand Together”/ 4. “Midnight Queen”/ 5. “Gotta Get Me Some”/ 6. “Lullaby”/ 7. “Kiss It Goodbye”/ 8. “Trying Not To Love You”/ 9. “Holding On To Heaven”/ 10. “Everything I Wanna Do”/ 11. “Don’t Ever Let It End”

Easy Trigger with Atomic Stuff

2011-12-29T17:48:00.000+02:00

Atomic Stuff is pleased to announce the collaboration with hard rockers Easy Trigger, for the recording of their debut album, yet untitled, scheduled for a late spring 2012 release.

Easy Trigger project was born in 2009, intending to play rock covers. After some changes, the band found its balance with a five-members line-up. A period of live acts followed, but only with the new singer Easy Trigger reached the definitive current line-up:

Franky (vocals)
Caste (guitar)
Fedry (guitar)
Bona (bass)
Vinco (drums)

From that moment, Easy Trigger started to compose new songs, and in March 2011 its first five-tracks EP, influenced by 80's hard rock and sleaze rock, appeared. Since May, Easy Trigger played several times in the Veneto region, winning PD contest and selling more than 200 copies of its EP. Easy Trigger is now ready to record its first full-length album, featuring five new songs including "911", created after 2 police reports for annoying drunkennes and verbal assault of a policeman.

www.reverbnation.com/easytrigger

Fuel From Hell signs with Street Symphonies Records

2011-12-29T14:39:00.000+02:00

Italian hard rockers FUEL FROM HELL have inked a deal with Street Symphonies Records. The band's second album will be released in the spring of 2012.The album title has not been decided yet.

FUEL FROM HELL is:

Phil Lasher - lead vocals
Dam Littmanen - guitar, vocals
Steve Eighteen - guitar, vocals
Max Velvet - bass, vocals
Alex Count - drums

FUEL FROM HELL got together in 1998 with the intention to play good old, loud as fuck rock n’ roll.

A first recording ("The Superfaka E.P." –now sold out) came out in 2001 and many gigs later the band hooked up with producers Lorenzo Gavinelli and David Sion and began working on new songs for an upcoming release. One of these songs ("Heartbreaker") is featured on "Hollywood Hairspray vol.6" sampler out on American label Perris recs. In February 2007 it’s time for the release of the debut album entitled "Fill You Up With Five Star Gasoline" on Go Down recs. This release is preceeded by the new single "Vampira" featuring the title track, another single-exclusive track and the professional videoclip for Vampira.

FUEL FROM HELL also took part to a Motley Crue's Tribute Album with the song "All In The Name Of..." along with others big rockin' acts such as Jizzy Pearl (LOVE/HATE, RATT), Phil Lewis (L.A. GUNS), Erik Turner (WARRANT), Frankie Banali (QUIET RIOT), Keri Kelli (SLASH'S SNAKEPIT, RATT, WARRANT, SKID ROW, ADLER'S APPETITE), John Corabi (MÖTLEY CRÜE, UNION), Fred Coury (CINDERELLA) and many others. This double compilation was released in June 2007 by American label Versailles Records. In 2007 FUEL FROM HELL also supported the Italian Tour of L.A.Guns (with Tracii Guns & Paul Black!) and started their own "Cavana Nights Tour" playing more gigs in Italy, Austria, Slovenia and Finland with bands like MELDRUM (with Gene Hoglan on drums!), FIREBIRD, VENDETTA, PARADOX, 1349, MIND OF DOLL.

Our five favorite rockers were also featured on many TV's and Radios and the "Vampira" videoclip was in rotation on MTV Europe, Voice TV (Finland), Getrocked (Italy), Rocknation (USA), In Orbita (Slovenia/Italy). In 2009, with a new killer line-up, FFH played some gigs supporting the rock legend ADAM BOMB and recorded some new songs for other American Compilations; "Bad Jane" for "Riot On Sunset vol.15" (272 Records) and "Midnight" for "Rock 4 Life" (Quickstar Productions). Under the production of Riccardo Asquini FFH have recorded their new upcoming album at Saojo Studio in Udine and started as well the new year supporting NASHVILLE PUSSY in Slovenia, so they hope to see all of you soon on the road to kick your ass with their fiery live show!

http://www.fuelfromhell.com/
http://www.streetsymphonies.com/

Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi) is starting work on his third solo album !

2011-12-29T08:11:00.000+02:00

While Bon Jovi fields death rumors (yes, he’s alive and well), his lead guitarist Richie Sambora is starting work on his third solo album at Ocean Way Recording in Hollywood. According to Broadcast Newsroom, Sambora has tapped Luke Ebbin, who manned the boards for Bon Jovi albums Crush and Bounce, for the project.

“Richie and I have worked on and off together for years,” Ebbin told Broadcast Newsroom. “Richie came off the Bon Jovi tour energized and we got together to write a couple of songs. The results were very good, so we kept writing more and decided to go in and record them.

“The recordings came out great, so Richie decided why not make this a solo record? There are eight songs in the can now, including a co-write with Bernie Taupin...”

Sambora’s first solo release was 1991’s blues-based Stranger in This Town, and he followed up that with 1998’s Undiscovered Soul. Ebbin says the guys have started round two of sessions and hope to have the full album done by early spring.

Article by Anne Erickson (http://www2.gibson.com/Gibson.aspx)

ADRIAN WEISS / BIG TIME (2011)

2011-12-28T21:48:00.000+02:00

Adrian Weiss is an American living in Germany guitarist of the progressive metal bands THOUGHT SPHERE (1996 – 2002) and FORCES AT WORK (2002 – today). So far Adrian Weiss has released 7 cds with his bands THOUGHT SPHERE and FORCES AT WORK. In addition to his extensive live activity with his bands, he has performed clinics and solo gigs at various events including MY MUSIC EXPO in Dresden (2009) and the Guitar Fight Convention in 2009 and 2010 as well as the NEW DÜSSELDORF POP event in 2011.

"Big Time" is Adrian's first full-length solo instrumental album containing 11 songs with a total playing time of 47 Minutes. The style connects the wonderful 80s guitar-hero-times with the modern influences of rock, metal and world music. The following musical guests Adrian got to know over the years in the German music scene are featured on "Big Time" : Victor Smolski (RAGE), Joachim Kremer and Björn "Burn" Sondermann (ASSASSIN), Daniel Dring (PAUL DIANNO – BAND, RE-VISION, PERZONAL WAR), Thorsten Praest (COLDSEED, GUT, HUEHNERFRIEDHOF), Sabir Salkic, Mischa Blum and Marcel Willnat (FORCES AT WORK), Demian Heuke, Lars Zehner (N-JECTED, MERCURY ARC), Goran Vujic (GUT, LAFEE, PHISHBACHER), Michael Schröder (NOISE DRUG), Mf-C (SCARFILES, ELASTIC) and Jan Ristau (THOUGHT SPHERE).

"Summer Drive", which opens the album, starts with a relaxing riffing and reminds me a bit of Joe Satriani's earlier works. A nice track which shows the abilities of Adrian Weiss. Nice melody and the perfect soundtrack for your next year's summer vacations. "Easy On The Ice" has a nice groove in it while "Tough Love" is a more 'difficult' in comparison with the previous tracks. "Desert Sanctuary" has a relaxed vibe in it and Adrian shows his virtuoso abilities one more time when it comes to some inspired soloing. "Liquid Pension Embellishment" is my personal favourite tune from "Big Time". There are, also, a couple of heavier or more fusion styled tracks in this album that are givin' the extra flavour to the whole result.

Bottom line is that "Big Time" is the perfect way to discover a talented musician. The perfect mix of the 80's 'big names' of instrumental albums such as Joe Satriani, Marty Friedman, Vinnie Moore and Paul Gilbert along with some heavier-fusion elements and there you have a very good release that is recommended for every guitarmaniac out there! This guy can surely play some impressive solos and riffs but he can, also, compose interesting muisc! Well done Adrian!
HeavyParadise's Rating: 8/10

Track List:

1. Summer Drive
2. Easy on the Ice
3. Tough Luck
4. Egyptian Inscription
5. Desert Sanctuary
6. Estimated Time of Arrival
7. Liquid Pension Embellishment
8. Bright Awakening
9. Morning Run
10. Disappear
11. The Progressive Society

VAN HALEN - Japanese Release Date For New Album Confirmed

2011-12-28T07:17:00.000+02:00

Interscope/Universal Japan has set February 8th as the release date for VAN HALEN's anxiously-awaited reunion album with David Lee Roth. A regular version plus limited deluxe with a bonus DVD will be available. More details will be revealed soon. Van Halen's official website has been updated with news that the band will be hitting the road in 2012 and the first tickets will go on sale January 10th. The site also features new video of the band - Roth, guitarist Eddie Van Halen, drummer Alex Van Halen and bassist Wolfgang Van Halen - reportedly filming the first single at the the Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood, California recently. (http://van-halen.com/index.html)

Finland's Myon present new single and video "Call Of The Senses"!

2011-12-27T14:37:00.000+02:00

Finland’s Myon brings the danger and adrenaline back in to rock, with their new single and video “Call Of The Senses”. “The song is a story about extreme adrenaline search, so we needed a video that really shows all about what experiencing the extremes can be” – says the band’s leader Mika Pohjola. The video features Hustler´s cover model Kimberly Knox, a.k.a. Veera Julia Ikkala, who is also building a career as a singer.

Video "Call Of The Senses" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOmX1Cbc5bk

She has also directed the video. “When I heard “Call Of The Senses” for the first time and was asked to act in the video, my decision was an immediate ”YES!” This is because, personally the song touches me deeply and for me it is easy to relate to adrenaline seeking behaviour. To me life has always been about the extremes. Truly feeling each moment and following my instincts, for better and worse. I started to then build a clear picture in my mind about how to bring this across to our viewers and ended up directing the video myself, for I had a distinct vision that I wished to show the audience: Living life to the extreme… Really feeling the adrenaline and life to the maximum in certain moments. Be it for good or bad. Evidently such lifestyle takes its toll, in a way or another. To some it can be worth it, to some it is not. But my point was not to moralize or judge, ONLY to show what such moments and lifestyle of extremes may be.” Says Kimberly Knox about the theme of the video.

Tragically on 18th of December 2011, Niko Vainikainen, who can be seen in some scenes in the video died in as extreme way as he lived. We want to respect his memory with this video as well. For he truly was a person of extremes and lived his life to the fullest, following the call of his senses.

“Call Of The Senses” Single and Video, will be released digitally 01.01.2012
The new single “Call Of The Senses” Proves once again, that Myon is taking music to the new direction and brings rock back to the new era 2012. Vitalworks era has began.
Myon :

Jukka Nummi Voc
Mika Pohjola Keyboards
Jyrki Laiho Gtr
Keijo Koivikko Bass
Matti Torro Drums

Myon discography:

1998 Heaven’s Garden
2002 Ghost In Paradise
2005 Slideshow
2007 Frameworks
2010 Inner Fire (Single)
2011 After It’s Gone (Single)
2012 Call Of The Senses (Single)

http://www.myonmusic.com/
www.myspace.com/myonmusic
www.facebook.com/Myonmusic
********************************

INTERVIEW WITH GIANCARLO FLORIDIA OF FAITHSEDGE

2011-12-27T13:54:00.001+02:00

Faithsedge is a heavy Heavy Metal/Hard Rock/Progressive project started by singer/songwriter Giancarlo Floridia in Huntington Beach, California, in the early 2009. Together with producer and bass player Fabrizio Grossi (Steve Lukather/Alice Cooper), guitarist Alex De Rosso and drummer Tony Morra, they joined their forces and achieved to release a solid debut album this year that made a huge impact to the hard rock scene. Heavy Paradise had the pleasure to talk with the mastermind of Faithsedge's Giancarlo Floridia about the band's debut album, their next step but , also, some other interesting stuff. Enjoy!

heavy paradise : Hello Giancarlo and welcome to Heavy Paradise for this interview! Before starting the interview, do you want to give some info to our readers about who is Giancarlo Floridia?

Giancarlo : Hi ! I am the lead singer for the band Faithsedge . I play guitar too and of course songwriting is one my other main things I love to do also !

heavy paradise : So, FAITHSEDGE released a solid album this year. That was a great sample of pure hard rock stuff with some heavier 'touches' but, also, some proggressive elements. What is the story behind Faithsedge? How did this group begin?

Giancarlo : It's great that we were able to mix those styles and come up with a sound that works , I am into arena rock , 70's , progressive , and heavy metal so it's cool that we were able to get so many sounds to work into one package . So the way that all came together is I heard Fabrizio Grossi's production work and he was someone I felt could capture and old school vibe with today . I contacted him and he helped me out with the rest . What a guy ! Fugetaaa about it !! ha ha.

heavy paradise : The reviews all over the net were really stunning! Are you satisfied with the result of your debut album?

Giancarlo : It's really cool to get so many good reviews , I think since everyone played good musicially and the songs were good is what it really came down too . Some critics want to cut me down for adding an 80's rock element to the music but I really dont care cause alot of people like that era (and so do I) and there was alot of hooks in music back then . Sometimes critics just want to remember the bad parts of that era but I prefer to look at all the great stuff from it .
Anyways , yes it was great to have so many good reviews from so many different parts of the world . I mean I got an email from a site a few days ago that we made album of the year list with bands like Journey , Mr. Big, and Sebastian Bach so it's been an honor for so many reviewers and magazines/websites supporting us !! Thanks everyone !!

heavy paradise : Over the last years, the hard/heavy rock scene is growing faster and faster with some excellent releases. Faithsedge was one of those, that's for sure! Do you believe that today's music scene has nothing to be envious of the glorious 80's?

Giancarlo : Thanks so much man, you rock . Well there is a market for it still and I like it when some bands have even improved on that sound and are able to take that sound to the next level . I wouldnt say any style is better than another I just think that some work harder it . I mean as a vocalist I even go back to the 60's were it was like run the tape and sing, 80's started the big production deal to the table and that is good and bad because some of these guys could sing and some couldn't so it sucks when you dont really know what your getting in real life . And now it's like million times worse than that where I dont know if I am listening to a computer or a person !!!! So I guess what I am saying is it's always good to respect anyone who is truly great at there craft without all the technology tricks and bullshit that is overused today , no matter what style of music !

heavy paradise: Looking the members of Faithsedge, are we talking about a supergroup or it it about four very talented musicians that are giving heart and soul to deliver very good music? Do you accept the label 'supergroup' ?

Giancarlo : Well when you look at the roster of what Alex , Fabrizio and Tony have done yes . I am the only guy whos still up and coming and trying to make a name for myself, so I am honest about that to myself . But to be making album with guys that are on that level is awesome . I dont feel musicially limited at all thats for sure . But sure if you wanna call them the supergroup ok !! haha I am still the new guy looking to get to that level !! haha

heavy paradise: The songwritting in Faithsedge, is it a one man responsability or a team work result?

Giancarlo : Lyrically it's the war inside myself that makes Faithsedge and thats why I think people are getting the group cause the lyrics are from stuff that really happened to me . Fabrizio has given me the trust with the words , hooks , and song vision concept wise . Musically on the 2nd album we are doing has some more stuff musically from Fabrizio and than of course when Alex and Tony come in it takes it to the next level . But yea it's my baby in terms of songwriting . I am hoping to work with Alex De Rosso more in the future rcord cause he's an insane guitar player .

heavy paradise : In the cd's booklet, I read that your daughter's name is Faith-Anne. So, I guess that the song contained in your album, "Faith-Anne", it's about your daughter? What are the songs from your debut that you love the most?

Giancarlo : Yea Faith Anne is my daughters name , shes gonna sing on the 2nd album also so it's really awesome . But yes the song is about her and the time I was seperated from her during the making of the album I had a pretty bad sitiuation with my X wife during that period so writing that song I felt was the only way I felt maybe I could reach out to her . I really liked the whole record so it's hard to pick certain songs . I liked the overall concept of the record about this person getting themself motivated to fight back all that may have gone wrong in the past . So I am proud of the record as a whole as just to certain songs .

heavy paradise: A record deal with Scarlet-Records seems to be a good deal! How difficult is for a band to get a good record deal nowadays?

Giancarlo : Yes it got my foot in the door and I am wanting to take this band to the next level so we'll see what happens . In getting a record deal it was important to have two things a quality product and connections . I also think it's good to do your research and find what labels roster you may fit into best and then go for it !

heavy paradise: A new album is on the way! Can you tell me some things about what are we going to hear from your next album? Do you have a title for your new 'baby'? Are there going to be any differences between your debut and the new one?

Giancarlo : Yes the music is done , I am 8 tunes done with lyrics and I am going to be even more proud to present this one to people . It's a little more vicious than the 1st guitar wise but I didnt lose site of the hooks and emotion of the 1st . I am going to be touching on some other subject like abuse , loss, my father, suicide of friends and figthing back to get past these kind of things in life . So as in the 1st record it will have a positive outcome to a dark subject . No title yet ... still waiting for that to happen

heavy paradise: What are your inspirations when you are writting a song?

Giancarlo : I'm inspired by life and everything going on around me . I am inspired by people that may have not been given the best circumstance and find a way to do something productive with themselves . I am inspired by people who follow there own goals inside that stick with them even if they dont have everything handed to them . I also like to concept songs where I am able to kind of put you into the story , love that kind of stuff .

heavy paradise: Giancarlo, except the Faithsedge, are you involved with some other projects? What else keeps you busy this time?

Giancarlo : I will be on the next Liberty N Justice cd will come out next year . I am singing on a song that I tracked already called "Under Construction" with Eric Dover (Slashes Snakepit) , Mark Kendall (Great White) and keyboardist Eric Ragno . There are a ton of great singers on the album it like CJ Snare (Firehouse) , James Christian (House of Lords), Kip Winger (Winger) , Tony Harnell (TNT) and Gunner Nelson (Nelson) thats just to name a few so I am honored that I am gonna be on an album with all these great singer and that I made the cut !!

And of Course the album will have Jani Lane's 100% final song he ever recorded on it so ... it's gonna be a great one . Other than that I am just working my ass of to get this done and I am going for my BA degree in producing so I am gonna be working hard on that also .

heavy paradise: How is an ordinary day of Giancarlo Floridia?

Giancarlo : Well last few months it was crazy I went to two schools and worked two part time jobs and am a single dad and had to write most of the record so ... I would get up go to one school then the other than go to work then go to a night job !!! aagghhhhhhhhhhhhhhh The life of a rockstar !!! ahahahahahahah I dont go hang out in hollywood every freakin week and I am not into partying so ... All I really like to do is be good to my kids, sing, go to school and work . Pretty metal !! ahahaha

heavy paradise: How do you see yourself after many years from now?

Giancarlo : My goal is being one of the top singers in the world in the hard rock scene , I am gonna keep working hard and it's going in the right direction I just need more and more people to find out about it and more doors to keep opening for me .

heavy paradise: Are there any plans for some live performances?

Giancarlo : There has been talk of Europe next summer doing some festival gigs .Depends on a few things so we'll see . Would be really cool .

heavy paradise: Closing,I have to thank for this interview and wish to you all the best for your future plans. It was a great pleasure talkin' to you.

Giancarlo : Thanks man and hope you have a great new year !!!

FAITHSEDGE OFFICIAL SITE : http://faithsedgemusic.com/
REVIEW OF FAITHSEDGE DEBUT ALBUM HERE

SPV/Steamhammer - MAD MAX "Another Night Of Passion" Cover and tracklisting revealed

2011-12-26T16:01:00.000+02:00

Just a brief summary to start with, establishing the historical context: hard rock act Mad Max from Mόnster in Germany found themselves on the verge of their American breakthrough in 1987. Everything was ready back then – a renowned producer to apply the finishing touches to Night Of Passion, Mad Max's current album of that time, a concert agency capable of organising an extensive tour, topped by major interest from the American rock music press. But the unfathomable business policy of the band's Dutch record company stood in the way of their leap across the Atlantic: Mad Max never made it onto the US market, and a dream was shattered, along with the legendary line-up.

25 years later, the world seems to be a different place, but Mad Max have turned the wheel of history back and are about to present their latest album Another Night Of Passion, recorded by the original 1987 team. To rule out any misunderstandings: what we have here is a completely new album with exclusively brand-new material, but the reference in the album title to that glorious time is intentional.

“The new record could have been a direct successor to Night Of Passion in terms of its stylistic direction – no ballads, no keyboards, just purebred rock songs – naturally in a contemporary sonic guise,” explains guitarist Jόrgen Breforth, who recorded this haunting release together with vocalist Michael Voss, bassist Roland Bergmann and drummer Axel Kruse. Another Night Of Passion will be available from Steamhammer/SPV on 26 March 2012 (Germany: 23 March 2012; USA: March 2012) in a jewel case edition featuring eleven songs, and in a limited-edition DigiPack, including the additional bonus CD Official Bootleg – Live In Berlin.

TRACKLISTING Digipak

CD1: 1. Rocklahoma 04:38/ 2. 40 Rock 04:21/ 3. Metal Edge 03:58/ 4. You Decide 03:53 / 5. Welcome To Rock Bottom 03:51/ 6. Fallen From Grace 05:11 / 7. Black Swan 05:05/ 8. Back And Alive 03:22/ 9. The Chant 04:56/ 10. Fever Of Love 04:09/ 11. True Blue 02:51
CD2 (Bonus “Official Bootleg – Live In Berlin”) :1. Where The Wind Blows 04:32/ 2. Here We Are 04:57/ 3. Night Of Passion 04:47/ 4. Family Of Rock 04:48/ 5. Little Princess 04:05/ 6. Say Goodbye To Hollywood 06:02/ 7. Open The Eyes 06:55/ 8. Don`t Talk It All Over 05:37/ 9. Homeless 04:57/ 10. Hope To See You 05:02/ 11. Fox On The Run 05:59

TRACKLISTING Jewel Case: 1. Rocklahoma 04:38/ 2. 40 Rock 04:21/ 3. Metal Edge 03:58/ 4. You Decide 03:53/ 5. Welcome To Rock Bottom 03:51/ 6. Fallen From Grace 05:11/ 7. Black Swan 05:05/ 8. Back And Alive 03:22/ 9. The Chant 04:56/ 10. Fever Of Love 04:09/ 11. True Blue 02:51

LINE-UP:

Michael Voss – lead vocals, lead guitars
Jürgen Breforth – rhythm guitars
Roland Bergmann – bass, vocals
Axel Kruse – drums

LIVE 2012: MAD MAX, As special guest on the AXEL RUDI PELL-Tour

20.04. D-Hannover – Capitol
21.04. NL-Weert – De Bosuil
22.04. GB-London - Underworld
24.04. D-Langen – Neue Stadthalle
25.04. D-Saarbrücken - Garage
27.04. D-Nürnberg – Hirsch
28.04. D-Kaufbeuren – All-Karthalle
29.04. CH-Pratteln – Z7
01.05. D-Erfurt – HsD
02.05. D-Berlin – Columbia Club
04.05. D-Bochum - Zeche
05.05. D-Bochum – Zeche (sold out)
__________________________________________
http://www.madmaxofficial.de/

The MFC Dragon Slayer All Star Project present new benefit song "Let's Unite In Rock"!

2011-12-26T16:00:00.001+02:00

LET’S UNITE IN ROCK was written by HENRIK FLYMAN (Evil Masquerade) to the benefit of METAL FOR CANCER. Please go to http://www.metalforcancer.com/ and buy a copy of the song. It’s for a very good cause and all income is donated to the AUSTRALIAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION.

Let's Unite In Rock - www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUSRngPJ4uw

Metal For Cancer is an idea put together by Richard Ofsoski where carefully selected quality Heavy Metal and hard rock artists contribute music for digital download to help raise funds for the fight against cancer. All proceeds go to ACRF (Australian Cancer Research Foundation) and approved by them http://www.acrf.com.au/

THE BAND:

Henrik Flyman - guitar (Evil Masquerade)
Peter Wildoer - drums (James LaBrie, Darkane, Arch Enemy)
Thor Jeppesen - bass (Evil Masquerade)
Artur Meinild - keyboard (Evil Masquerade)

SINGERS:

Mats Leven (Therion, Yngwie Malmsteen)
Snowy Shaw (Therion, Mercyful Fate, Dream Evil)
Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica, Northern Kings)
Apollo Papathanasio (Evil Masquerade, Firewind, Spiritual Beggars)
Tony Mills (TNT, Shy)
Silvio Massaro (Vanishing Point)
Richard Ofsoski (Ofsoski, Sedition)
Henrik Flyman (Evil Masquerade)
Lance King (Avian, Pyramaze)
Dagfinn Joensen (Fate)

LEAD GUITARISTS:

Glen Drover (Megadeth, Testament, Eidolon)
Henrik Flyman (Evil Masquerade)
Stu Marshall (Empires Of Eden)

MIXED AND MASTERED BY:

Jacob Hansen
Hansen Studios

COMPOSED AND PRODUCED BY:

Henrik Flyman

COVER ARTIST:

Barbara Ahearn

VIDEO:

Thomas Trane
Crazy Trane Productions

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

Dark Minstrel Music

http://www.metalforcancer.com/
www.facebook.com/pages/Metal-For-Cancer/230467360301423
www.reverbnation.com/ofsoski
http://www.empiresofeden.com/
www.rockngrowl.com/the-mfc-dragon-slayer-all-star-project-lets-unite-in-rock

AXEL RUDI PELL - new studio album in the works, album title revealed

2011-12-26T16:00:00.000+02:00

New album "CIRCLE OF THE OATH" coming in March 2012 !

The band is proud to announce that singer Johnny Gioeli, drummer Mike Terrana , keyboard player Ferdy Doernberg , bass player Volker Krawzak and guitarist Axel Rudi Pell will enter the studio in late November with Engineer and Co-Producer Charlie Bauerfeind, to record the next studio album, titled "Circle Of The Oath"

Axel Rudi Pell comments on this: "I'm more than excited ! I just finished the songwriting for all 10 songs including the compulsory intro and will concentrate on completing the lyrics in the next couple of days. This will be a hell of a record and you won't be disappointed ! It will have everything you expect from a true ARP record with all it's magical moments and a few surprises... !"

HEAVY PARADISE wishes to you and your loved ones Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year!

2011-12-22T20:53:00.000+02:00

HEAVY PARADISE wishes to you and your loved ones Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year!

http://www.heavyparadise.blogspot.com/

FRONTIERS RECORDS : Last Announcement of 2011

2011-12-22T20:31:00.000+02:00

JEFF SCOTT SOTO

"Damage Control", the new album by Jeff Scott Soto, is near completion and promises to deliver a one-two punch in the standard that is expected from the artist who has mastered the world of Melodic and Hard Rock music through the ages! The album is completed with appearances and co-writing by his current and former live line ups as well as guests such as Dave Meniketti (Y&T), Jamie Borger (Talisman/Treat), Casey Grillo (Kamelot) and Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger). There will be an 11 song single CD release of the album, as well as a 14 song Digipak version along with a bonus DVD which includes videos and EPK. Get ready for Damage Control, it will rock your World!

CRAZY LIXX

Crazy Lixx are busy in the studio recording their third album that will be entitled "Riot Avenue". According to singer Danny Rexon: "This time the music is a little more riff-based and straight-forward. We wanted to make real a hard rock album, so we decided to have a little more raw feeling in the production, sound and songwriting compared to our previous albums and there's a lot more up-tempo songs than we had on New Religion. Also, the addition of a second guitarrist, Edd Liam, has made it possible to add some twin guitar playing and other interesting musical stuff that we've used on the album". Some of the song titles are "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot", "Young Blood", "Riot Avenue", "Church of Rock", "Fire it Up", "Only the Dead Know" and more. The album is planned for a worldwide release in April 2012 and will be followed by the usual string of live dates around the World.

PRIDE OF LIONS

Pride of Lions is carrying on their proud heritage working hard on their as yet untitled fourth studio album. Jim Peterik says: "Our self titled debut released in 2002 is still many of our fans favorite albums. So this album is a bit of a return to form. Of course there will be a few surprises and Toby Hitchcock is singing stronger than ever. I've hit a stride on the songwriting with songs such as "Tie Down The Wind" and "Coin of the Realm". I needed the time since The Roaring of Dreams to regroup and get reinspired. If you can't make a great record that will last the test of time - why even bother. This time Toby and me wanna take Pride of Lions on the road to promote this new one and spread the word". This new Pride of Lions from what we've heard so far promises to be both more melodic and harder edged. Release is planned for early summer 2012.

HARDLINE

Hardline will be back in 2012 with a brand new album and a new lineup which will mark the beginning of a new cooperation between singer Johnny Gioeli and the italian producer/keyboardist Alessandro Delvecchio (EDGE OF FOREVER, EDEN'S CURSE). The US singer says: "I'm really excited to be working with Frontiers on a new Hardline record! We have slated the release for mid 2012...This CD is filled with melody and class...I'm digging it. I hope the Hardline fans enjoy this CD as much as I have enjoyed creating it... Happy Holidays All!"

ECLIPSE

ECLIPSE are putting their finishing touches to their anticipated fourth studio album that will be entitled "Bleed And Scream". Musically the band is taking off the new release where the last album finished, yet with more refined and progressed songwriting. It will be a 100% Eclipse-sounding album with big hooks, melodies and powerful riffs but it leans towards a more darker, moody and epic side of the band. Songs like the title-track, "Battlegrounds", "A Bitter Taste" and "After the End of the World" will show an exciting new side of the songwriting of the band. There will also be the first ballad in the history of the band entitled "About to Break". Singer Erik Martensson tells: " This album was the hardest to write for us so far. On the other hand the most rewarding. We don´t know at this point how we are going to top this one. We have tweaked everything from quality of the songs, melodies, hooks, arrangements, guitar-riffs, vocal performances, guitar solos, drumming and the variety in the songwriting in general. No stone is left unturned this time." Frontiers plans to release the album in the first half of 2012.

FIND ME

Singer Robbie LaBlanc of BLANC FACES and Swedish producer/songwriter Daniel Flores (MIND'S EYE; THE MURDER OF MY SWEET) have started working together on an exciting new project entitled FIND ME. Musically it will have an heavier edge compared to BLANC FACES and Robbie sings louder and stronger than ever ! Daniel Flores says "This cd is some of the best AOR songs I've ever worked on, there are songs for everybody here, it is going to be a monster. Robbie has one of the best voices in the business and I'm proud to be working with him, he reminds me of the soulfulness of Martin Page and Lou Gramm's singing. I have given every song on FIND ME its own identity for Robbie to showcase his great vocal diversity, all arrangements are carefully produced to fit his voice. The sonic impact will knock the socks out of you for sure! There are some great musicians involved on this Cd, starting with the amazing solos from guitar wizard David Sivelind, the rhythm guitars of Daniel Palmqvist and the very tight and inventive bass playing from Jonny Trobro. The amount of time put into keyboards was really a lot and will instantly remind the listener of the greats like Boston and Foreigner. All done with real vintage keyboards to give the album the organic feel, that unfortunately so many albums lack of these days. I have never been this satisfied with the keyboards and synthesizer arrangements like on this album!" Release is planned for the summer 2012.

http://www.frontiers.it/

Faithsedge 2nd album studio report, part II !!

2011-12-22T20:04:00.000+02:00

Preview of two new songs and the addition of keyboardist Eric Ragno to the band ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0kaydQYGvU&feature=youtu.be

SUNSTORM : JOE LYNN TURNER new album pays tribute to his 80’s vocal sessions

2011-12-21T20:54:00.000+02:00

JOE LYNN TURNER’s NEW SUNSTORM album pays tribute to his 80’s vocal sessions. “Emotional Fire” out on Frontiers on February 24th in Europe and February 28th in North America. Joe Lynn Turner’s popular AOR side project with German/American producer Dennis Ward, SUNSTORM, will release the third album entitled “Emotional Fire” on February 24th 2012 in Europe (February 28th in North America) on Frontiers Records.

Born after Turner met with Frontiers Records’ President Serafino Perugino, the SUNSTORM project was a way to dig up some old gems, written by the former Rainbow, Deep Purple and Yngwie Malmsteen singer during the mid 80’s. The task was to create an ultimate Joe Lynn Turner Melodic Rock “dream collection.” This brought on the release of the first SUNSTORM album in 2006 –which met with much critic and fan approval - and the follow up “House of Dreams” three years later.

While the first two albums’ basic inspiration came from the Melodic Rock catalogue of songs that Turner penned for himself or other artists of the genre, for this third album, Frontiers and JLT decided to look at Turner’s numerous vocal sessions he did in the 80’s as a background vocalist for other artists. This brought on a resurrection of some of Michael Bolton’s Melodic Rock gems such as “Gina,” (originally included on “The Hunger” album, where Turner contributed with background vocals), “You Wouldn’t Know Love” and “Emotional Fire,” which Bolton penned for the “Heart of Stone” album by Cher (in which Turner also appeared as background vocalist). “I sang background on the original ‘Gina,’” says Joe, “Michael and I did all of the parts but I tried to rock it up a bit more than the original... not so pop! Good song though! It's funny...I heard ‘Emotional Fire’ from Desmond Child during a writing session and then he asked me to sing background vocals on it! Crazy! It's like one big circle!”

With production and mixing once again under the expert hands of Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Place Vendome, Angra etc.) and a tracklisting rounded out by some amazing songs written by the likes of Soren Kronkvist (Crash the System, Issa), Tom and James Martin (Vega, Sunstorm, Khymera) and Daniel Palmqvist (Xorigin, The Murder of My Sweet), the third Sunstorm album, “Emotional Fire,” is destined to reignite the Melodic Rock passion in every fan. “I think this record has a good mix of songs,” concludes Joe, “Just what ‘Sunstorm’ is supposed to be! Dennis Ward is a great producer and the players are amazing. I have to say I am pleased with the work we did and hope that everyone else will be pleased as well...enjoy!”

SUNSTORM’s “Emotional Fire” will include the following songs: Never Give Up, Emotional Fire, Lay Down Your Arms, You Wouldn’t Know Love, Wish You Were Here, Torn In Half, Gina, The Higher You Rise, Emily, Follow Your Heart, All I Am.

The first single, “Never Give Up” can be exclusively streamed on the Frontiers Records webradio www.frontiers.it/webradio
Weblinks: http://www.joelynnturner.com/ / http://www.frontiers.it/

S.I.N. / EQULIBRIUM (2005)

2011-12-21T20:02:00.000+02:00

S.I.N. (which means "SOMEWHERE INTO NOWHERE") was an European Melodic Hard-Rock/Metal band. It came from 00's and was born after FOREVER's death, then S.I.N. could be described as a FOREVER's rebirth. It's composed by British Jason Marks, Deddy Andler, Wolfgang Frank and Alex Hlousek. Their first self-titled effort was released in 2003, thanks to well-known label MTM Music. For their second opus - the album that I'm reviewing about ! - they've signed with Metal Heaven record company.

To be honest, when I listen to "Equilibrium", I think that S.I.N. looks like EVIDENCE ONE. I mean a pure German melodic music with high-pitched and aggressive vocals. I didn't say "it's a clone of EVIDENCE ONE" but "it looks like EVIDENCE ONE". The strong point is mainly Jason Marks's voice and Michael Voss as guest, plus the talented "instrumental" team (guitar-bass-keyboard players Deddy Andler and Wolfgang Frank, drummer Alex Hlousek). This is an incredible and grower album. In fact, some of you could need more listenings to appreciate completely the entire album. My killer tracks are, without a doubt, "Nail It To The Wall", "It's Forever" (feat Michael Voss), "Fight For My Life", "Nightwinds" and "Winding Road".

I've discovered too late this wonderful band. I was, also, sad to learn thanks to Deddy that S.I.N. was definitely dead ! R.I.P. to a wonderful band ! Thank God, they gave us three great releases to get good memories of S.I.N.

Review by Axldobby

Track Listing:

Nail It To The Wall
One Small Voice
It’s Forever
Walk Away
Fight For My Life
The Reason
Johnny’s Running
Nightwinds
For Getting Over Us
Winding Road

MR. BIG To Release Acoustic Live Album

2011-12-20T22:44:00.000+02:00

Frontiers Records has set a February 28 North American release date (four days earlier in Europe) for MR. BIG's new acoustic live album, "Live From The Living Room". At the end of January 2011, during a week-long promotion trip to promote for its latest reunion album, "What If", and tour, MR. BIG was invited to the WOWOW TV studios in Tokyo to perform a special show in an intimate setting.

When the talk of a broadcast first came up, the band wanted to present something different from what they've ever done before. Thus the idea of an acoustic show came about and a string quintet was brought in to enhance the project even more, with arrangements provided by Takashi Miyazaki. Although Paul Gilbert and Billy Sheehan hooked up electric on a few songs, the show was still very much acoustic in nature throughout. Pat Torpey played various acoustic percussion instruments during the gig.

Commented Eric Martin: "The idea for the show came out of a quick conversation the four of us had after a day of interviews promoting the new 'What If' CD. We did an acoustic show at the Hard Rock Café in Singapore in 1996 that, to this day, is one of my favorite live recordings.

It had a stripped down, up-close and personal feel to it. If we were going to do something like that again it would have to be extra special. We were talking about the old days when musicians used to live together in a band house and practice day and night. Our favorite rock band posters and tapestries adorning the walls, family hand-me-down furniture, amps that doubled as lamp stands, friends hanging out and the usual cluttered mess on the floor, lyric sheets, guitar cases and chords, music stands, beer cans, pizza boxes, wine bottles etc. 'Live From The Living Room' was born out of that. We wanted to recreate a harmonious atmosphere and treat our fans to an informal jam session of songs from the past and present while throwing in a few surprises from our wish lists (strings, Japanese taiko drums)."

The result from that magic night in Tokyo is now here: 10 MR. BIG classics in a completely new and fresh dress and a portrait from the very first ever acoustic show from the band. "Live From The Living Room" will be exclusively released in a glossy digipak and will include the following songs:

01. Undertow/02. Still Ain't Enough For Me/03. As Far As I Can See/04. Voodoo Kiss/05. Take Cover/ 06. Around The World/07. Stranger In My Life/08. All The Way Up/09. To Be With You10. Nobody Left To Blame

"What If…" was released in Europe on January 21 via Frontiers Records. The North American release, also on Frontiers Records, followed on February 8.
"What If…" is MR. BIG's first "all-original" album since the reunion of the four original members, Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan and Pat Torpey, back in early 2009. Sixteen years after the release of "Hey Man", the new recording is set to bring back MR. BIG on the height of the current hard rock scene. The CD was produced by Kevin Shirley (AEROSMITH, RUSH, IRON MAIDEN).
Formed in 1988, MR. BIG forged its place in hard rock history by combining trademark "shredding" musicianship with awesome vocal harmonies. The original lineup produced numerous hit songs that ranged across a wide array of rock genres, be it ballads, heavy metal, or blues rock. Their hits included "To Be With You" (Billboard Hot 100 number one single in 15 countries for weeks, in 1991, propelling the band the band to huge international success and record sales in the multi-millions), "Wild World", "Green-Tinted Sixties Mind", "Just Take My Heart", and a host of heavy metal songs that were played mostly during their live performances: "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy", "Addicted to that Rush", "Colorado Bulldog", and "Take Cover".

VENGEANCE: New Album Details Revealed

2011-12-20T16:26:00.000+02:00

Dutch hard rock veterans VENGEANCE will release their new studio album, "Crystal Eye", on February 24 in Germany, February 27 in the rest of Europe and in March 2012 in the USA and Canada through SPV/Steamhammer. The effort will be available as a limited-edition digipak (including two bonus tracks), standard jewel case and as a digital download.

Digipak track listing: 01. Me And You (4:02) 02. Bad To The Bone (4:51) 03. Barbeque (3:31) 04. Shock Me Now (3:28) 05. Five Knuckle Shuffle (4:10) 06. Desperate Women (4:03) 07. Whole Lotta Metal (4:11) 08. Promise Me (3:43) 09. Crystal Eye (6:13) 10. Missing (4:51) 11. Jans End Piece (1:16) 12. Paint This Town (3:25) (bonus track) 13. Barbeque (radio edit) (3:35) (bonus track)

Jewel case track listing:01. Me And You (4:02) 02. Bad To The Bone (4:51) 03. Barbeque (3:31) 04. Shock Me Now (3:28) 05. Five Knuckle Shuffle (4:10) 06. Desperate Women (4:03) 07. Whole Lotta Metal (4:11) 08. Promise Me (3:43) 09. Crystal Eye (6:13) 10. Missing (4:51) 11. Jans End Piece (1:16)

The recording lineup on "Crystal Eye" incudes Leon Goewie (vocals), Chris Slade (drums; ex-AC/DC), Keri Kelli (guitar; ex-ALICE COOPER), Chris Glen (bass; ex-MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP), and Timo Somers (guitar; son of VENGEANCE guitarist Jan Somers, who sadly died of a heart attack in January 2011). "More than ever before, this is a band which consists of friends," states Goewie, whose excellent reputation as an exceptional vocalist made this impressive lineup possible. Goewie, Slade, Glen and Kelli also form the nucleus of the AC/DC cover band CHRIS SLADE'S STEEL CIRCLE, which rocks clubs around the globe whenever the musicians' schedules allow it.

"Crystal Eye" was produced by Michael Voss, who composed most of the songs in collaboration with Goewie. The title track was penned by former VENGEANCE guitarist Arjen Lucassen (AYREON, STAR ONE), while Tony Martin (ex-BLACK SABBATH) contributed "Whole Lotta Metal", which is said to be "tailor-made for Goewie and VENGEANCE." The album closes with the instrumental "Jan's End Piece", which features the last guitar solos recorded by Jan Somers before his tragic death.

"I've listened to the new tracks a couple of times now and consider this the most professional album I've ever done," says Goewie proudly, adding, "The fun and humor which are typical of VENGEANCE are all there on 'Crystal Eye', but in addition, the material is perceptibly more serious, which I feel really suits VENGEANCE mark 2012."

VENGEANCE will embark on a European tour in support of "Crystal Eye" in March/April 2012.

Liberty N' Justice Releasing Star-Studded 'Hell Is Coming To Breakfast' On March 1st

2011-12-20T16:17:00.000+02:00

Roxx Productions along with Liberty ‘n’ Justice are very pleased to announce for LNJ’s 20th Anniversary (1992-2012) the release of their 11th studio album ‘Hell Is Coming to Breakfast’. This marks the bands second release on Roxx Records after a successful partnership on the Limited Edition charity CD entitled ‘Chasing a Cure LP’ that the two teamed up on earlier in 2011. “Hell Is Coming to Breakfast” is set for release on March 1, 2012 with pre-sales beginning now.

Justin Murr of Liberty ‘n’ Justice has this to say about the release: “We recorded so many songs for our yet to be released 2 CD project entitled ‘The Cigar Chronicles’. Foreseeing that there would be a delay on this release until late in 2012 or early 2013, we didn’t want the fans to have to wait that long to get some new LNJ in their hands! When Bill of Roxx Records approached me and asked if we had anything else up our sleeves ready for release, we realized we had to many songs that were not going to fit on ‘The Cigar Chronicles’. We came up with 6 songs that we thought would be best placed on this new record. We also recorded another brand new song – which is the title track, ‘Hell Is Coming to Breakfast’. In addition, we are also pleased to include 5 previously unreleased rare cuts. I am really excited for our fans to hear this collection!”

Bill from Roxx Records had this to say about the new release “We are very excited to be working with Justin and Liberty ‘n’ Justice once again, especially in the bands twentieth year! Justin Muir and all the wonderful artists he works with continue to release nothing but top notch material and after twenty years it is just amazing how they keep coming up with so many great Melodic Rock songs again and again and again!”

In addition to the 7 brand new tracks and various demos and rarities we are very excited to be able to include on this release and on CD for the very first time ever the original acoustic demo version of ‘Sin’, featuring the late great Jani Lane of Warrant out front on vocals.

Full Track Listing…

“Hell Is Coming To Breakfast” Seann Nicols (Adler’s Appetite / Tarsha) JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ)
“Madhatter” Donnie Vie (Enuff Z’ Nuff) , JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Chris Dickens (Mission Of One), Tommy Denander
“Whack A Mole”, Johnny Lima, JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Jerry Johnson (SAINT), Richard Lynch (SAINT)
“Thankful Heart”, Philip Bardowell (MAGDALEN/Unruly Child), Lynn Louise Lowrey (Vixen/Testify), Anthony Gravley
“Nakatomi Plaza”, JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Greg Bishop (X-Sinner), Scott Weisenborn (Testify)
“Stretch Armstrong”, Louis St August (Mass), JK Northrup (King Kobra/ XYZ), Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper)
“Get Down”, Tony Mills (TNT/ Shy), Mark Allen Lanoue (Chasing Karma/ Bilioxi),Anthony Gravley
“Your Memory Just Won’t Do” [Previously Unreleased], David Cagle, Alex Grossi (Quiet Riot), CJ Snare (Firehouse)
“Thy will be done” [Demo], Jamie Rowe (Guardian)
”What do you believe?” [Demo], Mike Ledesma (FAR CRY), Vic Rivera (Crunch)
“Monkey Dance” [Alternate Mix], Jack Russell (Great White)
“Sin” [Original Acoustic Demo], Jani Lane (Warrant)

This is a Limited Edition CD Release. For full details (including pre-order information and discounted bundles) please visit here : http://www.roxxproductions.com/

RESURGENCE OF ROCK : BlancaWhite's Debut 'Classic Rock' Album

2011-12-19T20:48:00.000+02:00

1970's and 1980's-style hard rock just can't be topped!! After all, that was the era during which such legendary bands as AC/DC and Van Halen unleashed some of the genre's greatest anthems.

BlancaWhite's full-length, debut album, Resurgence of Rock, is a rallying cry for a global resurgence of the sounds that made rock n' roll great! Resurgence of Rock is original, in-your-face, classic-style hard rock, tweaked for the modern day. A unique combination of hard rock sounds from the 70's and 80's combined with lyrics and subjects from the perspective of today, Resurgence of Rock is sure to appeal to all fans of the classic rock era who are now at a different stage of their lives.

Resurgence of Rock is an exciting, unique project put together by several die-hard rock fans, including international attorney Ken Savage and brothers Austin and Rick Schell. They have produced exactly the sort of rock music that die-hard fans want to hear, and have spared no expense or effort to produce a world-class rock album.

Following the model of the Alan Parsons Project, Savage and the Schells recruited top-notch talent for each of their original songs, including renowned 80s vocalists Paul Shortino (Quiet Riot and Rough Cutt), Terry Ilous (XYZ and Great White), Lorraine Lewis (Femme Fatale and L.A. Nookie), and Jeff Paris (Cinderella, Vixen, Slash and Keb Mo). The variety, quality, and unique combination of 'classic rock with a modern twist' set this album apart!

http://www.resurgenceofrock.com/

Scorpions Announce 'Comeblack' Album & Live DVD Release Dates, Video Teaser Online!

2011-12-19T16:59:00.000+02:00

Legacy Recordings is proud to announce the domestic release of two essential new titles from the seminal metal band Scorpions -- 'Comeblack', a new album of classic rock covers and fresh performances of signature repertoire recorded earlier this year, and 'Get Your Sting and Blackout - Live in 3D', available on Blu-ray disc, an 11-camera 3-D concert film recorded in Saarbrucken, Germany on April 15, 2011 during Scorpions current farewell tour. Both albums will be available in America on January 24th, and to help promote 'Comeblack' (released on November 4th in Germany, November 7th in Europe), the legendary rockers have posted a promo video featuring several samples from the CD.

Last year, Scorpions announced that the group's Get Your Sting and Blackout tour, an epic ongoing worldwide rock 'n' roll odyssey in support of 2010's 'Sting in the Tail', would be the group's last before retirement. The tour is slated to run through 2012 with a string of historic farewell blowouts and festival performances scheduled in Europe culminating with shows at the Wacken Open Air festival (August 4, 2012) and Munich's Olympiahalle (October 13, 2012).

At some point during the Get Your Sting and Blackout tour ("We can't remember the day, the month or the hour"), Scorpions, enjoying the success of 'Sting in the Tail' and the emotional rejuvenation of the farewell tour ("Screaming fans everywhere we went!") decided to record one last classic album. "The idea to go back to the studio was born out of pure excitement," said the band who cut an album mixing covers of rock 'n' roll standards that informed and inspired the Scorpions alongside new productions and performances of the songs in the band's core catalog that have proved the most meaningful to the members. The result, 'Comeblack', is, according to the band, "an encore for our die-hard fans, to thank them for all the support for so many years. At the same time, this is a tribute to legendary bands from the sixties, like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, who have inspired us to follow our dreams. We hope you like it as much as we do... Rock on and ... Comeblack."

Wanting to create a truly memorable concert film to do justice to the power of the live show and the high energy emotional impact of the final tour, Scorpions chronicled the sold-out concert on April 15, 2011 in Saarbrucken, Germany with a state-of-the-art 3D production. Helmed by director Gerd F. Schultze (who's worked on 3D films with Michael Jackson, Bryan Adams, Joe Cocker, Carlos Santana and German superstar Peter Maffay), 'Get Your Sting and Blackout - Live in 3D' puts the viewer into the VIP box at the ultimate Scorpions concert. In addition to 100 minutes of pure Scorpions music, 'Get Your Sting and Blackout - Live in 3D' includes more than half-an-hour of behind-the-scenes bonus material.

"The preview audience was absolutely euphoric and stunned by the intensity and the never-before-witnessed power and intimacy in which they were able to experience the Scorpions' fantastic concert," said Gerd Schultze following a theatrical screening of the film.

"The people left the screening with a completely new and never-before-seen concert experience and wanted to watch it all over straight away. Part of the reason is, that we have managed to create an unbelievable 3D depth with a specially developed method, which is very pleasant to watch. Using the new camera technology, we managed to translate 3D in the cut and montage technique in a style that will meet the expectations of a first class product even in ten years time. It makes you feel like you're sitting in the VIP lounge amidst the audience through this 11 camera 3D concert staging and its monstrous 5.1 surround and stereo sound. At the same time, The Scorpions perform their unbelievably powerful and visually unique show with all their hits live in your living room. This is pure dynamite ... fasten seat belts and take off... into the third dimension."

"Saarbrucken was a very good choice," wrote the band in a press statement, "our fans were simply sensational and gave us the chance to thank them for their many years of support."