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.:News March:.

30/04/2005 – RUNNING WILD: Tribute album title and artwork revealed

Belgian artist Kris Verwimp (ANCIENT RITES, ARCH ENEMY, CENTINEX, OLD MAN'S CHILD, THYRFING) has completed the front-cover artwork for the upcoming tribute to RUNNING WILD, "The Revivalry", tentatively due in June via Remedy Records. The final cover art can be seen at this location. The album will be released as a limited-edition two-CD set for the price of a normal CD. The track listing is as follows:

CD1:

STORMWARRIOR - "Warchild"
TORMENT - "Prisoners of our Time"
PARAGON - "Iron Heads"
DARK AGE - "Adrian (S.o.S.)"
TWISTED TOWER DIRE - "Port Royal"
BURDEN OF GRIEF - "Raise your Fist"
PREDATOR - "Under Jolly Roger"
LIGEIA - "Running Blood"
CHILDREN OF WRATH - "Black Soul"
AIRBORN - "Ballad of William Kidd"
REVIVER - "Pile of Skulls"
ICARUS WITCH - "Evilution"
PERZONAL WAR - "White Masque"
MAVERICK - "Blazon Stone"
NOT FRAGILE - "Victim of States Power"
KNEIPENTERRORISTEN - "Ketten und Leder"

CD2:

THE RUGGED - "Fight the Oppression"
LOGAR'S DIARY - "Riding the Storm"
SARDONIC feat. MICHAEL SEIFERT (BLACK DESTINY, REBELLION) - "Raw Ride"
CRYSTAL SHARK - "Conquistadores"
CROSSFIRE - "Beggar's Night"
KATAGORY 5 - "Bad to the Bone"
POSTHUMOUS - "The Phantom of Black Hand Hill"
THE CLAYMORE - "Sinister Eyes"
TRAGEDIAN - "Masquerade"
ASARU - "Black Hand Inn"
FACES OF MADNESS - "Hanged, Drawn and Quartered"
WARVENGER - "Tortugay Bay"
AGENTS OF ROCK - "Soulless"
PAVEL KAMINSKI + JUREK KAPELLEV - "Riding the Storm"



30/04/2005 – PRIMAL FEAR schedule Vancouver in-store signing session

Scrape Records in Vancouver, British Columbia is hosting an in-store signing session with German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR on Saturday, May 14 at 5:00 p.m. The whole band will be in town mixing their newest CD with the legendary Mike Fraser (AC/DC, METALLICA, COVERDALE/PAGE, SLIPKNOT, AEROSMITH, THE CULT).

For more information about how to get to Scrape Records, click here.

PRIMAL FEAR are recording their new album at Germany's House of Music studio with producer Charlie Bauerfeind. A tentative October release through Nuclear Blast Records is expected.



30/04/2005 – KALEDON: 'Making of' video of 'The Way Of The Light' available

Italian Powermetallers KALEDON have uploaded a video of the recording sessions of their forthcoming album "The Way Of The Light". The video is available at this location (50 MB, .wmv).

As previously reported, the band has also uploaded mp3-samples of the new album, which can be heard at this location.

"The Way Of The Light" is the follow-up to 2003's "The King's Rescue" and will be released very soon via Steelborn Records.

"The Way Of The Light" tracklisting:

01. The Inexorable Light
02. The Glory Starts
03. The Angel
04. The Hidden Ways
05. In The Eyes Of The Queen
06. Mighty Son Of The Great Lord
07. Voltures In The Air
08. Lord Of The Sand
09. Black Telephaty
10. Come With Me
11. Break The Chant
12. The Sword On The Shoulder
13. The Way Of The Light
14. Great Night In The Land

The new album features a guest appearance: Lara Bertoli of IRON MAIDEN cover band ED HUNTER sing on "Come With Me". KALEDON entered Giuseppe Orlando's The Outer Sound Studios last October to complete work on the recordings. The drum tracks for the CD were laid down in July at Alpha & Omega studios in Como, Italy by STRATOVARIUS' Jörg Michael (the band have since been rejoined by drummer David Folchitto).



29/04/2005 – SHADOW KEEP: Drummer leaves the band, no replacement yet

Lawrence Patterson (drums) has left UK's SHADOW KEEP (website) due to musical differences. For the tour in the US the band will be joined by Mike Pittman from DISTANT WARNING (website).

SHADOW KEEP's last album, "A Chaos Theory" was released in 2001 through Limb Music. The recordings were done at Thin Ice Studios and produced by Karl Groom (THRESHOLD).



29/04/2005 – IRON SAVIOR commence song writing for the new album

IRON SAVIOR have just started writing songs for their new album, which is scheduled for release in 2006.

The bands last album, "Battering Ram" was released last year through Noise Records.



29/04/2005 – KAMELOT to perform at GRASPOP METAL MEETING in Belgium

KAMELOT will be performing at this year's GRASPOP METAL MEETING FESTIVAL 2005 on the Main Stage Saturday June 25th - Dessel, Belgium. GRASPOP will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary so expect a huge party this year! Other acts include SLIPKNOT, MEGADETH , IRON MAIDEN, DREAM THEATER and many more...

Visit www.graspop.be for travel info including hotels, airports, camping and more!

KAMELOT's latest release "The Black Halo" entered the Belgium top 100 this year for the first time. KAMELOT is coming off a sold out concert in Brussels in April and just recently did a mini-tour in Japan with SILENT FORCE.



27/04/2005 – VIRGIN STEELE begin recording new album

VIRGIN STEELE's official web site has been updated with the following message:

"David DeFeis [vocals] has finally decided which songs will be issued on the first [new VIRGIN STEELE] CD from out of the over 60 compositions he has prepared so far. And not only that, but the group is actually now officially halfway through capturing the first 20 on tape. Sessions are going extraordinarily well, and the group is hoping for a much sooner...rather than a much later release. We will keep you informed, as the information comes our way. I have also heard rumors about a 'making of' short video documentary that is in the works!"



27/04/2005 – EXCALION bassist steps down; new band lineup unveiled

Finnish symphonic power metallers EXCALION have posted the following message on their official web site:

"Timo Sahlberg will continue in the band but not as the bassist! He will run the errands of the band.

This decision was made in a total agreement and every one of us, including Timo, thinks that this is the best way to make EXCALION even a tighter group than before. Timo's inspiration doesn't nowadays come from playing an instrument, so this was definitely the best way to choose. Now Timo can, in addition to his studies, really put time and effort in the band's activities that happen outside the rehearsal room.

We will go on with only one guitar and Tero will grab the bass."


EXCALION current lineup:

Vocals - Jarmo Pääkkönen
Guitar - Vesa Nupponen
Keyboards - Jarmo Myllyvirta
Drums - Henri Pirkkalainen
Bass - Tero Vaaja

As previously reported, EXCALION will release their new album, "Primal Exhale", on May 17 via Sound Riot Records.

Described as a blend of NIGHTWISH and STRATOVARIUS, "Primal Exhale" was recorded and mixed at Watercastle Studios and was mastered at The Digital Audio in U.K. (ROYAL HUNT, RING OF FIRE, LAST TRIBE). Cover artwork duties were handled by C.A. Interactive (MORIFADE, AXENSTAR, SUPREME MAJESTY).



26/04/2005 – SHADOW GALLERY: 'Room V' guest appearances revealed

SHADOW GALLERY's upcoming album, "Room V", will feature a host of guest appearances, according to a post on the group's official web site. "Laura Jaeger returns again to sing on two songs for the new release," the posting reads. "Arjen Anthony Lucassen will be performing a solo on one of the tracks and new performer, Joe Stone will be performing a solo on another track. Also appearing will be Libby Molnar. The bonus disk for the European release will also have performances by Jim Roberti and Mark Zonder, along with Arjen Anthony Lucassen."

The first promotional trailer for the release of "Room V" has been posted online at the group's official web site. Check it out in Quicktime format: Dial-Up (8.67 MB), Broadband (17.4 MB).

InsideOut Music has set a June 7 U.S. release date for "Room Five". The CD will be issued in Europe on May 30.

The follow-up to 2001's "Legacy", "Room Five" will be a concept album and will be a continuation of the "Tyranny" story.

"Room Five" track listing:

ACT III
01. Manhunt
02. Comfort Me
03. The Andromeda Strain
04. Vow
05. Birth of a Daughter
06. Death of a Mother
07. Lamentia

ACT IV
08. Seven Years
09. Dark
10. Torn
11. The Archer of Ben Salem
12. Encrypted
13. Room V
14. Rain



26/04/2005 – Tribute to RUNNING WILD: Track listing modified

The artwork by Kris Verwimp for the upcoming "Tribute To Running Wild" album, tentatively scheduled to be released in June via Remedy Records, is almost finished. The album will be released as a limited-edition two-CD set for the price of a normal CD and again the track listing has been slightly modified. The new (but not yet final) track listing is as follows:

CD1:

STORMWARRIOR - "Warchild"
TORMENT - "Prisoners of our Time"
PARAGON - "Iron Heads"
DARK AGE - "Adrian (S.o.S.)"
TWISTED TOWER DIRE - "Port Royal"
BURDEN OF GRIEF - "Raise your Fist"
PREDATOR - "Under Jolly Roger"
LIGEIA - "Running Blood"
CHILDREN OF WRATH - "Black Soul"
AIRBORN - "Ballad of William Kidd"
REVIVER - "Pile of Skulls"
ICARUS WITCH - "Evilution"
PERZONAL WAR - "White Masque"
MAVERICK - "Blazon Stone"
NOT FRAGILE - "Victim of States Power"
KNEIPENTERRORISTEN - "Ketten und Leder"

CD2:

THE RUGGED - "Fight the Oppression"
LOGAR'S DIARY - "Riding the Storm"
SARDONIC feat. MICHAEL SEIFERT (BLACK DESTINY, REBELLION) - "Raw Ride"
CRYSTAL SHARK - "Conquistadores"
CROSSFIRE - "Beggar's Night"
KATAGORY 5 - "Bad to the Bone"
POSTHUMOUS - "The Phantom of Black Hand Hill"
THE CLAYMORE - "Sinister Eyes"
TRAGEDIAN - "Masquerade"
ASARU - "Black Hand Inn"
FACES OF MADNESS - "Hanged, Drawn and Quartered"
WARVENGER - "Tortugay Bay"
AGENTS OF ROCK - "Soulless"
PAVEL KAMINSKI + JUREK KAPELLEV - "Riding the Storm"



23/04/2005 – STORMHAMMER part ways with singer, seek replacement

German power metallers STORMHAMMER have parted ways with vocalist Tommy Lion (ex-DRIFTER). The band are currently seeking a replacement. Interested parties can contact the group at this location.

STORMHAMMER released their third album, "Lord of Darkness", in May 2004 via Mausoleum Records.



23/04/2005 – KALEDON: 'The Way Of The Light' audio samples available online

Italian powermetallers KALEDON have put mp3-samples of their forthcoming album "The Way Of The Light" on their website. You can check them out at this location.

"The Way Of The Light" is the follow-up to 2003's "The King's Rescue" and will be released very soon via Steelborn Records.

"The Way Of The Light" tracklisting:

01. The inexorable light
02. The glory starts
03. The angel
04. The hidden ways
05. In the eyes of the queen
06. Mighty son of the great lord
07. Voltures in the air
08. Lord of the sand
09. Black telephaty
10. Come with me
11. Break the chant
12. The sword on the shoulder
13. The way of the light
14. Great night in the land



22/04/2005 – SECRET SPHERE: New album details revealed

Italian power metallers SECRET SPHERE have pushed forward the release date of their new album, "Heart & Anger" (Nuclear Blast), to May 23 from the previously announced May 30. The CD was issued in Japan on April 21.

The follow-up to 2003's "Scent of Human Desire", "Heart & Anger" was recorded at One Voice Studio in Chivasso, Italy by Daniele Giordana, Night & Day Studio in Alessandria, Italy by Paolo Facco, and Sheepvalley Studio in Stockholm, Sweden by Daniel Flores. Guest singers on the album include Roberto Tiranti (LABYRINTH), Marco Mesemi (MORGANA), Vera Quarleri and Monica Elias. The album was mixed by Achim "Akeem" Köhler (BRAINSTORM, SILENT FORCE) at the House of Audio in Winterbach, Germany.

"Heart & Anger" (view cover here) track listing:

01. Endless
02. Where the Sea Ends
03. First Snake
04. Loud & Raw
05. Dance with the Devil
06. Set Me Free
07. I Won't Say a Word
08. Lights On
09. Leonardo da Vinci
10. You Still Remain
11. Bad Blood
12. No Reason Why
13. Faster Than the Storm
14. Where the Sea Ends l (acoustic version - Japanese bonus track)



20/04/2005 – DEMONS & WIZARDS: New audio sample available for download

A one-minute, 45-second sample of a new DEMONS & WIZARDS track, entitled "The Gunslinger", is available for download at this location.

"The Gunslinger" comes off the group's upcoming sophomore album, "Touched by the Crimson King", due on June 27 via SPV Records.

The follow-up to the group's 2001 self-titled CD, "Touched by the Crimson King" (view cover here) will feature the following track listing:

01. Crimson King
02. Beneath These Waves
03. Terror Train
04. Seize The Day
05. The Gunslinger
06. Love's Tragedy Asunder
07. Wicked Witch
08. Dorian
09. Down Where I Am
10. Immigrant Song (LED ZEPPELIN cover)

The digipack version will include a bonus CD containing the following songs:

01. Lunar Lament
02. Wicked Witch (slow version)
03. Spatial Architects
04. Beneath These Waves (radio edit)

Contrary to Internet rumors, "Touched by the Crimson King" is NOT a concept album based on the "Dark Tower" series of Stephen King, but merely contains some songs related to it.

DEMONS & WIZARDS is the project featuring Jon Schaffer of ICED EARTH and Hansi Kürsch of BLIND GUARDIAN. Joining the duo behind the kit is current ICED EARTH/HALFORD drummer Bobby Jarzombek.



20/04/2005 – VICIOUS RUMORS: 'Crushing The World' DVD details revealed

Mascot Records will release the long-awaited VICIOUS RUMORS DVD, "Crushing the World", at the end of May. The DVD is a past-to-present overview, and features all the great songs (including footage with original vocalist Carl Albert), all their videos, the day-to-day life on the road during their around-the-world tours, as well as interviews. A treat for the loyal league of VICIOUS RUMORS fans.

"Crushing the World" DVD track listing:

01. Down to the Temple
02. On the Edge
03. Digital Dictator
04. Poveglia
05. March or Die
06. Fight
07. Only Live Twice
08. Don't Wait for Me
09. Lady Took a Chance
10. Broken Wings
11. Abandoned
12. Against the Grain
13. Children
14. Don't Wait for Me
15. The Voice

VICIOUS RUMORS, who were recently rejoined by drummer Larry Howe, have been confirmed to appear at the 2005 installment of the Bang Your Head!!! festival, set to take place June 24-25 at Messegelände in Balingen, Germany. The band are also scheduked to perform at Tradate Iron Fest, a five-day event set to take place June 1-5 at Campo Sportivo in Tradate (VA), Italy.



20/04/2005 – BRAINSTORM replace DREAM EVIL at Sweden's GATES OF METAL festival

BRAINSTORM have replaced DREAM EVIL on the billing of this year's Gates of Metal festival, set to take place August 5-6 at Folkets Park in Hultsfred, Sweden. The festival billing is now shaping up as follows:

DIMMU BORGIR - EDGUY - CHILDREN OF BODOM - MASTERPLAN - DARK TRANQUILLITY - GRAVE DIGGER - AMON AMARTH - BRAINSTORM - MOONSORROW - EVERGREY - NOCTURNAL RITES - SABATON - TWILIGHTNING - GOD AMONG INSECTS - TERÄSBETONI - PANTOKRATOR

This year's festival will expand with additional performances Friday evening. 5,000 tickets have been released, and foreign visitors can make their reservation at the official festival website.

As previously reported, "Inside The Monster - World Tour 2005 / 2006" kicked off April 19 at The Rock in Copenhagen, Denmark. A U.K. tour supporting SAXON was recently rescheduled for October.

BRAINSTORM recently announced that female singer Carmen Schäfer will be joining them on stage for the song "All Those Words" at their shows in Ludwigsburg (April 27) and Budapest (April 30) on the upcoming tour.

"Liquid Monster", was released on April 4 via Metal Blade Records. A limited-edition version is available as a CD+DVD digibook, featuring the album, a video documentary of the band's last world tour and additional bonus material.



20/04/2005 – Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer issues update

Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch has issued an update on his SAVAGE CIRCUS project featuring PERSUADER members Jens Karlsson (vocals, guitar) and Emil Norberg (lead guitar) and the still-unnamed collaboration with SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid. Stauch's message reads as follows:

"First I would like to thank you for your positive response to the SAVAGE CIRCUS songs. This gave me hope to see you guys on our first tour again. This will be a fantastic party!!! I hope the whole album will meet your expectations, lets see.

Your faithfulness left me very impressed and believe it or not after 20 fantastic years with BLIND GUARDIAN your mails nearly made me cry. In the meantime I got used to the new situation, which is not too surprising after all your massive support. You are the best ...

Okay, back to my new plans for the next weeks and months.

The next weeks will be filled with promotions for SAVAGE CIRCUS.

In the middle of May Mi, Gonzalo, Torsten, Olli and I will be back in Karo's studio, which was named Hammer Studios not too long ago, to lay down the last drum tracks for our project with Björn. After this we record bass and guitar tracks, so Björn can put his vocal track down, after returning from the U.S. (SOILWORK are touring there at the moment). All of this will keep us busy until the end of June. Björn will manage to have a break from the festivals with SOILWORK. They will be absolute killer shows. This is simply party metal!! Our music will have for some of you some surprises in stall, because it will be different to what I have done with BLIND GUARDIAN or with SAVAGE CIRCUS.

We opened ourselves to various influences, for instance some of the songs have an almost punk character. Some songs will remind you of bands such as COAL CHAMBER, RAMMSTEIN, LINKIN PARK or even KORN. This record will be very versatile and I can describe it like this to whet your appetite.

The bottom line is that we have managed to create our very own style, which could only be described as nu/modern party metal. I truly hope that you find it as refreshing as us, although this selection of music might not be your usual thing. We have all different tastes, and that’s understandable, but for me this project is an absolute challenge because the style of drumming required is so different to the melodic power metal line. It is 90 percent groove and it broadens my spectrum again. Luckily no one ever stops learning ...

The whole mix will be completed in August and we hope to catapult the album around February 2006 into the CD shelves; as long as everything runs smoothly.

The album release of SAVAGE CIRCUS' "Dreamland Manor" will be released by our new label Dockyard 1 and will be out hopefully by the end of August, beginning of September 2005.

Other plans with SAVAGE CIRCUS include a worldwide tour starting around October/November 2005 continuing into the following year, with club shows, as well as festivals. Unfortunately I can’t be 100 percent certain right now, but we will do everything to get this rolling. I do promise that you that you will see us live in one form or another in 2006. I hope you can turn out in big numbers. I can't wait ..."



20/04/2005 – THUNDERSTONE: 'Tools Of Destruction' U.S. release date announced

Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE will release their third full-length album, "Tools of Destruction", in the U.S. on June 28 via Nuclear Blast Records. An MP3 file containing a sample medley of the songs from the CD can be downloaded at this location.

As previously reported, THUNDERSTONE's video for the track "Tool of the Devil" has been made available for download at this location (Quicktime, 30 MB). The clip was shot with director Jari Mutikainen and producer Jan Streng.

"Tools of Destruction" was mixed at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with producer/guitarist Nino Laurenne.

THUNDERSTONE's sophomore album, "The Burning", entered the Finnish Album chart at position No. 17 upon its release in January 2004. The follow-up to 2002's "Thunderstone" was recorded at Sonic Pump studios with producer Laurenne and was mixed at Finnvox studios with Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, CHILDREN OF BODOM). Included on the CD is a guest appearance by SYMPHONY X guitarist Michael Romeo in the track "Drawn to the Flame".



19/04/2005 – PRIMAL FEAR, DRAGONLORD, LOUDNESS confirmed for Germany's EARTHSHAKER FEST

PRIMAL FEAR, DRAGONLORD, LOUDNESS and MACHINE MEN have been confirmed for Earthshaker Fest 2005, a two-day event set to take place July 22-23 in Geiselwind, Germany. The billing for the festival is shaping up as follows:

AFTER FOREVER - BLUDGEON - CAGE - DIE APOKALYPTISCHEN REITER - DISBELIEF - DRAGONLORD - EVIDENCE ONE - EXILIA - FEINSTEIN - GRAVE DIGGER - GRAVEWORM - HOLYHELL - HYPOCRISY - J.B.O. - JUSTICE - LOUDNESS - MACHINE MEN - MANOWAR - MASTERPLAN - NIGHTWISH - OVERKILL - PRIMAL FEAR - RHAPSODY - STORMWARRIOR (feat. Kai Hansen) - TESTAMENT - TURISAS



19/04/2005 – PRIMAL FEAR issue recording update, confirm Spanish festival appearance

German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR have posted the following message on their official web site:

"Randy [Black] has finished his drumparts for the new album and it's guitar time at the House Of Music. Working together with Charlie Bauerfeind [producer] is fantastic and the spirit in the studio is great!

The festival in Spain on August 12-14th is now shaping up. It will be a 3 day event in gernika near Bilbao and named Metalway Festival. We can confirm our participation on Saturday Aug 13th, together with the great JUDAS PRIEST plus more bands - more news soon!"


PRIMAL FEAR's new CD will be mixed by Mike Fraser (DEF LEPPARD, METALLICA, AC/DC, AEROSMITH) at the Warehouse Studio in Vancouver, Canada. A tentative October release through Nuclear Blast Records is expected.



18/04/2005 – REBELLION to release new album next month: audio available

REBELLION, the German band that features in its ranks former GRAVE DIGGER members Uwe Lulis (guitar) and Tomi Göttlich (bass), will release their new album, "Sagas of Iceland", on May 30 via Massacre Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Born a Rebel" will be the first part of a Viking trilogy based upon Ragnar Lodenhose ("Sons Of The Dragonslayer"), the Norwegian king Harald Harfager (who created the first united Norwegian kingdom), Eric the Red, and both Danish kings Sven Gabelbart ("Ruling The Waves") and Knut the Great. "Part 2" (estimated release in 2006) will deal with the Swedish and Russian Vikings and their glorious deeds. "Part 3" (estimated release in 2007) will be cover the "Edda" story collection where the listener will get more information about the mythology and the gods of the Vikings.

Check out audio samples of the tracks "Ynglinga Saga", "Sons of the Dragonslayer", "Canute the Great" and "Eric the Red" at this location.



17/04/2005 – SHADOW GALLERY: New album trailer posted online

The first promotional trailer for the release of SHADOW GALLERY's upcoming "Room V" CD has been posted online at the group's official web site. Check it out in Quicktime format: Dial-Up (8.67 MB), Broadband (17.4 MB).

As previously reported, InsideOut Music has set a June 7 U.S. release date for "Room Five". The CD will be issued in Europe on May 30.

The follow-up to 2001's "Legacy", "Room Five" will be a concept album and will be a continuation of the "Tyranny" story.



17/04/2005 – STRATOVARIUS: New album to be released late August/early September, tour will follow soon after

Finnish Melodic Powermetallers STRATOVARIUS will release their forthcoming album late Summer and will be titled "Stratovarius" instead of the earlier and much speculated and discussed "Popkiller". Anyhow, the original news comes from SonaraPlaza.fi, but here's a quick translation from STRATOVARIUS's forum:

STRATOVARIUS will release their new studioalbum in late August or early September. The album is called simply "Stratovarius" (in other words you can forget about "Popkiller") and it has the following tracks:

1) Maniac Dance
2) Fight
3) Just Carry On
4) Back To Madness
5) Gypsy In Me
6) Götterdämmerung (Zenith Of Power)
7) The Land Of Ice And Snow
8) Leave The Tribe
9) United

The album will surely be a surprise for STRATOVARIUS fans. For example, you won't hear any double bass songs, for the album is mainly in 4/4 and hte song are thoroughly produced mid-paced heavy rock songs. Especially the first part of the album is very "un-STRATOVARIUS" (in proportion to previous albums) and some fans' faces may be worth seeing, when they hear the Atari-intro to the album single "Maniac Dance".

A video has already been filmed of the forthcoming single, which was directed by STRATOVARIUS guitarist Timo Tolkki's old schoolmate and the director of CELINE DION's, EMINEM's and NIGHTWISH's music videos, Antti Jokinen. "Maniac Dance"'s lyrics leave little to be guessed, they tell about the twister gone around Timo Tolkki during the last few years.

In the second part of the STRATOVARIUS-disc the band moves to more familiar sounds and for example the song "The Land Of Ice And Snow" is a clear sequel to "Forever". As the title suggests, "The Land Of Ice And Snow" is a salute to Finland and Finns. And a known alcohol drink is also mentioned in the song!

"The way the album is constructed is that the first part is more unexpected material and the second part is more familiar STRATOVARIUS," Tolkki tells.

At the end of the record you will hear some epic atmosphere and feelings similar to previous albums. At times they resemble IRON MAIDEN at its bombastic times, at times they resemble a symphonic movie score. The album has also many surprising occasional elements, for example the babbling of Jörg's children, swedish opera singer and the speech of the wrestler Starbuck.

The progressive elements from the last two STRATO-albums, are more or less history, for band's new songs are relatively simple flavoured with catchy choruses. Tolkki has also managed to write some extremely good and tight riffs. His guitar solos are stylized. He lets his fast fingers caress the guitar neck a few times, but you won't find any filling shredding on this album.

"The songs are a few years old. And I didn't plan the album to be like this. The songs wrote themselves. I just compose and later see what I have come up with... All music on the album is done by me. but Jens (Johansson, Keys) and Timo (Kotipelto, singer) have written some lyrics," Tolkki says and continues.

"Every artist praise their new album, but I just really like this album. And of course I'm very happy that we managed to make this in the first place!"

STRATOVARIUS members will tour Europe and other continents in July doing interviews. A long world tour will start in September....And yes, the stir created Hitler-song is now called "Götterdämmerung (Zenith Of Power)". And you can hear Mr. Adolf speaking after all, if you listen very closely....



17/04/2005 – ICED EARTH: 'Gettysburg (1863)' DVD artwork posted online

The cover artwork for the upcoming ICED EARTH DVD, "Gettysburg (1863)", has been posted online at this location.

Due June 6 via SPV/Steamhammer, the two-disc set includes a 132-minute DVD featuring Gettysburg Battlefield Tour, Spirit Of '76, Photo Gallery, Trailer, Scene selection and Lyrics. The second disc has a running time of 63 minutes and includes the following features: "When the Eagle Cries" (video), "The Reckoning" (video) and and interview with the group's mainman/guitarist Jon Schaffer.

According to SPV, "ICED EARTH's 2003 album, "The Glorious Burden", was a milestone in terms of music and subject matter. Particularly the concert version of "Gettysburg (1863)" is a successful opener to a historic chapter that is directly linked to the contemporary U.S. The brand-new double DVD of the same name is about to round off Schaffer's ambitious project.

In three parts ("The Devil To Pay", "Hold At All Costs", "High Water Mark"), ICED EARTH narrate the historic events that took place in that legendary location in Pennsylvania in July 1863, when the Confederate troops met the Union in the most blood-soaked battle ever on American soil. ICED EARTH and their "Gettysburg" DVD chronicle this dramatic historic subject in language, images and sound more comprehensively than any other rock band before them."


Commented Schaffer: "I've visited the original battle sites several times and read a lot of books about the subject. But I'd never claim to be a Gettysburg expert. I can still find out much more about it because I've realized: the more you study this battle, the more different points of view you'll discover."



17/04/2005 – SILENT FORCE on tour in Japan, tour diary on their website

German Powermetallers SILENT FORCE have left for Japan to tour there together with KAMELOT. Jürgen (bass) will keep everyone up to date through a tour diary on the website. You can check it at this location.

SILENT FORCE will play 3 gigs there:

Apr. 19 - Osaka (Club Quattro)
Apr. 21 - Tokyo (Ebisu Liquid Room)
Apr. 22 - Tokyo (Ebisu Liquid Room)

SILENT FORCE's third full-length album, "Worlds Apart", was released last year via Noise Records. The follow-up to 2001's "Infatuator" was produced by Dennis Ward (ANGRA, PINK CREAM 69) at House of Audio studio in Karlsdorf, Germany.



16/04/2005 – DREAMTALE launch vocalist search

Finnish metallers DREAMTALE have officially launched a search for a new vocalist following the recent departure of Jarkko Ahola. Interested parties can contact the group at rami@dreamtale.net. More information is available at Dreamtale.net.

DREAMTALE's third album, "Difference", was released earlier this month via Spinefarm Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Ocean's Heart" was recorded at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with Tolkki producing and was mixed at Finnvox studios by Mikko Karmila.



16/04/2005 – HAMMERFALL confirm plans to tour U.S. with EDGUY

HAMMERFALL guitarist Oscar Dronjak has posted the following message on the band's official web site:

"Next week will see the first full-blown production gigs with HAMMERFALL in two years, and it all happens in Switzerland and Germany. Be sure to give going to the gig some serious thought if you have the chance to, because I promise you have never seen anything like it from us before!

With the Brazilian shows, the Japanese/South American tour is now booked and confirmed, and here's the complete routing:

May 20 - Club Quattro - Osaka, Japan
May 21 - Shibuya O-East - Tokyo, Japan
May 24 - Planet Mall - San José, Costa Rica
May 26 - Hard Rock Live - Guadalajara, Mexico
May 28 - Monterrey Metal Fest - Monterrey, Mexico
May 29 - Circo Valador - Mexico City, Mexico
May 31 - Cupula del Parque O'Higgins - Santiago, Chile
Jun. 02 - Master Hall - Curitiba, Brazil
Jun. 03 - Olympia - São Paolo, Brazil
Jun. 04 - Olympia - São Paolo, Brazil
Jun. 05 - Chevrolet Hall - Belo Horizonte, Brazil

Please note that the São Paolo and Belo Horizonte gigs are together with TWISTED SISTER, which should make them remarkably memorable evenings for all involved!

On a somewhat related touring matter, the U.S. leg that has been long rumored was also confirmed a few days ago. It's true, it's true! Beginning on August 10th in Toronto, Canada, we will travel around North America together with EDGUY. The tour will last three weeks, and is perfectly slotted between Wacken Open Air and the Bloodstock Festival. I'm assuming we'll hit the major cities, although there are bound to be some that will have to take a miss due to the limited time span of the tour. Check back in a week or two, I should have the complete routing with venues then.

Much to my surprise, we received almost unanimous praise for the cover of "Vindarna Viskar Mitt Namn". I was sure there would be at least a few who would detest the fact that a heavy metal band had anything to do with something like this, but I guess times really have changed. It was a fun thing to do, and got us a lot of exposure - a whopping 2,7 million were watching last Friday, close to a third of the entire Swedish population! If nothing else, we have showed them how a 'schlager' could - should? ;-) - be done. And hopefully raised the awareness of heavy metal in a few minds along the way. Keep the flame burning, everyone!"



16/04/2005 – BRAINSTORM ready to go on tour

German Powermetallers are ready to go on tour to promote their newest masterpiece "Liquid Monster". The band posted the following message on their website:

"Dear Brainiacs...

We would like to say THANK YOU so much for all your support! Over the last two weeks we have received tons of e-mails from fans all over the world... and it looks like... you do not really hate the new stuff, ha ha ha... ! So thank you so much for all your support!

No it's time to go back on the road again! We're so excited to meet you all on our very first headling tour! Be warned... we'll have an amazing setlist and nearly two hours of pure action on stage (...and many, many more things :-) !) Let's R O C K !!!!

check the tourpage for dates!"



As previously reported, "Inside The Monster - World Tour 2005 / 2006" will kick off April 19 at The Rock in Copenhagen, Denmark. A U.K. tour supporting SAXON was recently rescheduled for October.

BRAINSTORM recently announced that female singer Carmen Schäfer will be joining them on stage for the song "All Those Words" at their shows in Ludwigsburg (April 27) and Budapest (April 30) on the upcoming tour. "Besides these two special performances, all fans can expect amazing shows on the whole tour with tons of light effects and fantastic stage buildings!" drummer Dieter Bernert said in a statement. "As we always promised to bring our own show with us, now you will see what a real BRAINSTORM show is all about!"

BRAINSTORM's video for the track "All Those Words" has been posted online at MetalBlade.de (Windows Media). The video was shot in an old mine in Germany, where "the special atmosphere deep inside these mighty mountains was perfectly captured," according to a press release.

"Liquid Monster", was released on April 4 via Metal Blade Records. A limited-edition version is available as a CD+DVD digibook, featuring the album, a video documentary of the band's last world tour and additional bonus material.



15/04/2005 – EXCALION announce new guitarist

Finnish symphonic power metallers EXCALION have announced the addition of guitarist Vesa Nupponen to the group's ranks. Nupponen joins the band as the replacement for Kimmo Hänninen, who left the group in December due to musical differences.

EXCALION will release their new album, "Primal Exhale", on May 17 via Sound Riot Records.

Described as a blend of NIGHTWISH and STRATOVARIUS, "Primal Exhale" was recorded and mixed at Watercastle Studios and was mastered at The Digital Audio in U.K. (ROYAL HUNT, RING OF FIRE, LAST TRIBE). Cover artwork duties were handled by C.A. Interactive (MORIFADE, AXENSTAR, SUPREME MAJESTY).

"Primal Exhale" track listing:

01. Temptation Wasteland
02. A Moment in the Spotlight
03. Reality Bends
04. Dire Waters
05. Stage of Lies
06. Heart & Home
07. Megalomania
08. My Legacy
09. Obsession to Prosper



14/04/2005 – BLIND GUARDIAN sign with NUCLEAR BLAST RECORDS

Nuclear Blast has announced the addition of a new member to the family — BLIND GUARDIAN. One of the most significant and successful international power metal bands who "reinvented classic metal for a younger audience" according to Metal Edge, the trademarked BLIND GUARDIAN experience is described as a "larger-than-life sound which incorporates the harmonies and drama of QUEEN with an aggressive, modern sensibility" by Billboard magazine.

Regarding the long-term signing, BLIND GUARDIAN singer Hansi Kürsch happily shares, "Our long search for the perfect record company has ended. We finally were lucky to find the ultimate home — Nuclear Blast! Some things you decide with your head, other things you deal with on a gut level. The decision for Nuclear Blast was both! We placed great emphasis on finding a partner that knows the world of heavy metal and does business in an unconventional manner, if necessary. Nuclear Blast can offer both of these key qualities, and proved so time and time again in the past.

But this alone would not be enough, if the chemistry wasn't there, but our first meetings could only be described as: 'We came, ate, and laughed...' Our views on music in general and BLIND GUARDIAN in particular are almost identical! The whole Nuclear Blast team impressed us a lot with their unity and the huge identification with their mission and the expansion of the metal world. Now we have the unique chance to follow our musical vision in the perfect environment. We expect a lot, and so do Nuclear Blast. Let's roll! The GUARDIAN comes home!"


Nuclear Blast label manager and A&R head Andy Siry is equally thrilled. "We are all very happy about the amount of trust BLIND GUARDIAN has put in us. The beginning of this cooperation will surely prove to be very productive and fruitful. Our distribution partners and the whole of Nuclear Blast are ready to kick ass!"



14/04/2005 – NIGHTMARE: New album update

French power metallers NIGHTMARE have issued the following update on the recording sessions for their fifth album, "The Dominion Gate", tentatively due in October via Regain Records.

"We've just finished all the recordings of the drums and everything is fine so far... We will start guitars and bass next week and this evening, we will do the guitars sound... We have pre-produced 14 songs + one big surprise... Franck [Milleliri, ex-DARK LIGHT guitarist] fits perfectly with the band and he has brought some killer riffs also... We even made for the first time, an epic song of 8 minutes which is the title track of the album, "The Dominion Gate"... We will reveal some more new songs later as we are still writing lyrics at that time... But... "A Taste of Armageddon", "Before & After"', "The Watchtower" are already songs that will make a stir... Stay tuned for more... Jean Pascal Fournier (IMMORTAL, MYSTIC CIRCLE, EDGUY), is in charge of the artwork and has made already a very nice preview of what will be the next cover! He will use the next two months to finalize it... Very promising for now to say the least!"

The follow-up to 2003's "Silent Room", "The Dominion Gate" is being recorded at Soundsuite Studio with Norwegian producer Terje Refsnes (TRISTANIA, SIRENIA). The album will include a special guest appearance by ex-PRETTY MAIDS guitarist Ricky Marx, who has previously collaborated with NIGHTMARE vocalist Jo Amore back in the '90s.

NIGHTMARE 2005 lineup:

Jo Amore - Vocals
Alex Hilbert - Guitars
Yves Campion - Bass
Franck Milleliri - Guitars
David Amore – Drums



14/04/2005 – DRAGONFORCE nominated for the 'Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards'

UK's extreme Powermetallers DRAGONFORCE have been nominated as Best UK Band in the forthcoming "Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards". The sad thing is... for the votes to count the sender has to be a UK resident.

There are two ways to vote:

1) Via text message, just send a text to: 84070
and then put in the code: MH UK B

2) You can also vote online at http://www.metalhammer.co.uk/goldengods/votingform.asp.


As previously reported, DRAGONFORCE have announced the first of their major summer live appearances with IRON MAIDEN. The dates are as follows:

May 29 - Mystic Festival @ Stadium Slaski - Chorzow, POL
Jun. 11 - Gods Of Metal Festival @ Parco Nord Open Air Arena - Bologna, ITA
Jun. 21 - Terra Vibe - Athens, GRE

DRAGONFORCE's second album, "Sonic Firestorm" (2004), is available now on the Noise/Sanctuary label.



14/04/2005 – KAMELOT: Working on new dates for the fall

KAMELOT guitarist Thomas Youngblood has posted the following message on the group's official web site:

"We are now back from our first part of the European Tour 2005. All I can say is WOOOA! What a great time we had with all of you that came to the shows. The turnouts in most of the cities was incredible and the response to the new songs was great. The tour went very smooth for all the bands and I must say a special thanks to the KOTIPELTO band and EPICA for kicking ass every night with us. We are working on new dates for the fall and maybe some late summer appearances."

KAMELOT are continuing to promote their latest album, "The Black Halo", released last month through SPV Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Epica" was produced by Sascha Paeth and Miro at Gate and Pathway studios in Germany and features guest appearances by Shagrath (DIMMU BORGIR), Jens Johansson (STRATOVARIUS), Simons, Mari (MASQUERAID), as well as the KAMELOT choir, featuring Herbie Langhans (SEVENTH AVENUE), Amanda Somerville-Scharf, Miro, Gerit Göbel, Thomas Rettke (HEAVEN'S GATE) and Elisabeth Kjaernes, among others.



13/04/2005 – GRAVE DIGGER to film Brazilian show for upcoming DVD

German power metallers GRAVE DIGGER will be filming their "25-Year Anniversary" show on May 7 at the TV Direct Music Hall in Sao Paulo, Brazil for an upcoming DVD.

Upcoming GRAVE DIGGER shows:

Apr. 22 - Greding/Obermessing, GER @ SÄG Festival
May 05 - Buenos Aires, ARG @ TBA
May 06 - Curitiba, BRA @ Moinho Sao Roque
May 07 - Sao Paulo, BRA @ TV Direct Music Hall
May 08 - San Jose, BRA @ TBA
Jun. 12 - Straubing, GER @ Hard Summer Festival
Jun. 18 - Debrecen, HUN @ Rock Nights Festival
Jun. 19 - Warsaw, POL @ Proschina Hall
Jun. 24 - Dessel, BEL @ Graspop Metal Meeting
Jul. 08 - Osterode, GER @ Rock Harz Festival
Jul. 15 - ITA @ TBA
Jul. 22 - Geiselwind, GER @ Earthshaker Fest
Aug. 06 - Hultsfred, SWE @ Gates Of Metal Festival
Sep. 03 - Pardubice, CZR @ Fantasy Metal Festival

GRAVE DIGGER are continuing to tour in support of their latest album, "The Last Supper", available now on Nuclear Blast Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Rheingold" was recorded at Principal studio in Münster, Germany and has a running time of 53 minutes. The new CD is said to contain "more metal, more passion and more power" than the group's previous efforts.



13/04/2005 – HAMMERFALL: Japanese, Mexican, South American tour dates announced

HAMMERFALL guitarist Oscar Dronjak has posted the following message on the group's official web site:

"The tour premiere in Helsinki (and Jyväskylä), Finland, last week went remarkably well! The audience was absolutely crazy, which always helps ;-), and we were all very pleased with this outing. I certainly hope we can come back to Finland before the year is over!

Where the Finnish shows were more of the warm-up character for us, a chance to try the new songs as well as the equipment in a live setting. Next week will see the full production unveiled. I guarantee you this will be light years beyond anything we have done before. If you have a chance to go, don't skip it, because you will not see this from HammerFall during any of the summer shows. The Icebreaker festivals is an isolated thing that will not be repeated.

In addition to Japan, the South American tour is taking shape. Here are the confirmed dates as of right now:

May 20 - Club Quattro - Osaka, Japan
May 21 - Shibuya O-East - Tokyo, Japan
May 24 - Planet Mall - San José, Costa Rica
May 26 - Hard Rock Live - Guadalajara, Mexico
May 28 - Monterrey Metal Fest - Monterrey, Mexico
May 29 - Circo Valador - Mexico City, Mexico
May 31 - Cupula del Parque O'Higgins - Santiago, Chile

"Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken" stayed near the top 10 in Sweden also in the fifth week, coming in at #11. Again, this is pretty remarkable for a heavy metal band!

Some of you may have been surprised last Friday, when HAMMERFALL were one of the artists performing at "Alla Tiders Melodifestival". We had been approached several weeks ago about participating in this, and after a quick deliberation decided to accept. They wanted us to do "Vindarna Viskar Ditt Namn", the Swedish contribution to the 2000 Eurovision Song Contest. Originally by Roger Pontare, we managed to get him to sing the song with us at this event, which helped elevate this version even further. The song, by the way, is as close to heavy metal as one of these has ever been, and our version gave the music and melodies some much-needed heaviness and energy. If you missed it, there's a replay this coming Friday at 14:00 CET."



12/04/2005 – BLIND GUARDIAN singer says there will be 'no delay' in production of new album

BLIND GUARDIAN singer Hansi Kürsch has posted the following message on the group's official web site:

"First of all I would like to say how much we all appreciate the way you are dealing with the split [with drummer Thomen Stauch]. It is, as some of you have pointed out, not the end of the world but a new beginning. I am really proud about each step we have made in the past but as time moves on we must move on as well. The future is wide open...

And now a couple of short statements in reply to your concerns and questions:

There will be no delay of the next BLIND GUARDIAN production. As you probably know: a BLIND GUARDIAN album is ready when we feel it is ready. This makes it somewhat difficult to come up with a precise schedule. I can guarantee the release of the next BLIND GUARDIAN album for 2006. If it finally turns out to be spring, summer or fall I don't really dare to say. If you had asked me about the release date for the next DEMONS AND WIZARDS album two months ago I would have said April. Now it will be June. Things like that happen and it doesn't take a lot for a delay to be introduced. The orchestra album is scheduled for 2007. I do not see any reason for delays there.

Regarding a new drummer we have a few options at the moment which we will check out. I will keep you updated.

And finally for all the drummers who are sending e-mails to our webmasters asking them for information on how to apply for the job: from our side there is no need for auditions at the moment since we have some preferences already. Thanks for asking anyway."



12/04/2005 – PLATITUDE begin recording new album

Swedish progressive power metal band PLATITUDE have finished laying down the drums tracks for their third album, "Silence Speaks". "[Andreas] Brobjer did an amazing job, you are going to love it!" the band write on their web site. "The recording was done at Panicroom Studios outside of Skara. The rest of the album will be recorded at Jailhouse, starting on the 3rd of May."

"Silence Speaks" tentative track listing (in no particular order):

01. Empty Inside
02. Falling Down
03. Silence Speaks
04. Walk With Me
05. Don't Be Afraid
06. Day And Night
07. Fear
08. Tell the Truth
09. Falling & Dissapear
10. After the Storm
11. You

As previously reported, PLATITUDE recently parted ways with keyboardist Andreas Lindahl. Andreas left the group in order to "fully [concentrate] on his other projects, mainly LOCH VOSTOK as well as his session work with WUTHERING HEIGHTS and MANTICORA," according to a posting on the band's web site.

PLATITUDE's sophomore album, "Nine", was released last April through Italy's Scarlet Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Secrets of Life" was recorded at Jailhouse Studios in Denmark with producer Tommy Hansen (HELLOWEEN, PRETTY MAIDS) and features cover artwork by Mattias Norén.



12/04/2005 – STEEL PROPHET officially announce BRUCE HALL as their new vocalist

STEEL PROPHET have confirmed that AGENT STEEL singer Bruce Hall has officially joined the group as their new vocalist. Bruce has "been rehearsing with the band and everything sounds great!" the group write on their web site.

Hall will handle the vocal duties on the upcoming STEEL PROPHET album following the departure of Nadir D'Priest, who sang on the group's "Beware" CD (2004). D'Priest originally joined STEEL PROPHET as the replacement for Rick Mythiasin, who has since launched a new project, MYTHIASIN.



12/04/2005 – LOST HORIZON launch vocalist search

Swedish melodic metallers LOST HORIZON are looking for a session singer, or stand-in singer, to perform with the group at festivals around Europe this year. "Even though it would make things easier, it is not necessary that the applicant lives around Gothenburg, or even in Sweden. Europe is close enough!" the band write on their web site.

Interested singers can apply by submitting a recording of themselves singing over an instrumental version of a LOST HORIZON song.

For more information, visit www.oncelosthorizon.com.

LOST HORIZON vocalist Daniel Heiman and guitarist Fredrik Olsson left the group last summer in order to pursue other projects. The remainder of the band - Wojtek Lisicki (who last year returned to LOST HORIZON), Christian Nyquist, Attila Publik and Martin Furängen - are continuing work on material for their third album, tentatively due in early 2006 through an as-yet-undetermined label (the band were previously signed to the now-defunct Music For Nations).



12/04/2005 – HAMMERFALL and EDGUY: More North American tour dates announced

More shows have been released for HAMMERFALL's upcoming North American tour with EDGUY. Confirmed dates so far are as follows:

Aug. 10 - Toronto, ONT @ TBA
Aug. 11 - Montreal, QUE @ Medley
Aug. 12 - Quebec City, QUE @ Imperial
Aug. 15 - West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx
Aug. 16 - New York, NY @ B.B. King's

More dates are expected to be announced soon.

(Thanks: www.capitaledumetal.com)



11/04/2005 – HAMMERFALL and EDGUY to team up for U.S. tour

According to the concert venues' official web sites, HAMMERFALL and EDGUY will be teaming up for a U.S. tour in August. Confirmed dates so far are as follows: Aug. 15 - West Springfield, VA @ Jaxx Aug. 16 - New York, NY @ B.B. King's More dates are expected to be announced soon.



11/04/2005 – PRIMAL FEAR confirmed for Poland's MYSTIC FESTIVAL

German power metallers PRIMAL FEAR have been confirmed for the Mystic Festival, set to take place May 29 at Stadium Slaski in Chorzow, Poland. The festival billing is shaping up as follows:

IRON MAIDEN
NIGHTWISH
KREATOR
BEHEMOTH
PRIMAL FEAR
FRONTSIDE
DRAGONFORCE

PRIMAL FEAR are scheduled to begin recording their new album this month at House of Music studio with producer Charlie Bauerfeind. The CD will be mixed by Mike Fraser (DEF LEPPARD, METALLICA, AC/DC, AEROSMITH) at the Warehouse Studio in Vancouver, Canada. A tentative October release through Nuclear Blast Records is expected.



11/04/2005 – THUNDERSTONE: 'Tools Of Destruction' samples posted online

Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE have posted an MP3 file containing a sample medley of the songs from their upcoming third full-length album, "Tools of Destruction", due on April 18 via Nuclear Blast Records. Download the file at this location.

As previously reported, THUNDERSTONE's video for the track "Tool of the Devil" has been made available for download at this location (Quicktime, 30 MB). The clip was shot with director Jari Mutikainen and producer Jan Streng.

"Tools of Destruction" was mixed at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with producer/guitarist Nino Laurenne.

THUNDERSTONE's sophomore album, "The Burning", entered the Finnish Album chart at position No. 17 upon its release in January 2004. The follow-up to 2002's "Thunderstone" was recorded at Sonic Pump studios with producer Laurenne and was mixed at Finnvox studios with Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, CHILDREN OF BODOM). Included on the CD is a guest appearance by SYMPHONY X guitarist Michael Romeo in the track "Drawn to the Flame".



11/04/2005 – MOB RULES: 'Signs Of The Time' DVD delayed

Due to "production problems," German melodic metallers MOB RULES have pushed back the projected release date of their "Signs of the Time - Live" DVD to early June.

"Signs of the Time - Live" (view cover here) was recorded last year during the band's hometown gig in Wilhemshaven, Germany in support of their "Among the Gods" studio album.

The "Signs of the Time - Live" DVD will not only contain regular live footage of the concert at the completely packed Pumpwerk in Wilhelmshaven, but also some additional/bonus material, like bandmember interviews, an extensive history, the clip "Black Rain" in two versions (TV edit and Director's Cut), behind-the-scenes footage as well as a discography. In addition to the concert recording, the live CD will include two more live tracks not found on the DVD. This will come packaged in a "bulky" booklet featuring lots of previously unreleased live pictures.

MOB RULES will be teaming up with DOMAIN and LUNATICA for the "Two Headliners In A Row" tour in April/May. A list of all the confirmed tour dates can be found at MobRules.de.



11/04/2005 – STRATOVARIUS to film 'Maniac Dance' video this week

Finnish melodic metallers STRATOVARIUS have completed work on their new album, tentatively due later in the year via Sanctuary Records. The band will shoot a video for the song "Maniac Dance" in mid-April with director Antti Jokinen (BEYONCÉ, WYCLEF JEAN, KORN, MISSY ELLIOT, NIGHTWISH, SHANIA TWAIN, CELINE DION).

"We just got the video treatment from Antti, this will turn out to be amazing!" commented keyboardist Jens Johansson.

"The video song and first single is called "Maniac Dance", it should allow Antti's creative madness to bloom. And I hope you trust me when I say this will be nothing like MISSY ELLIOT or CELINE DION."

With regards to the recording/mixing process, STRATOVARIUS mainman Timo Tolkki said, "As you all may know, this album has not been born the usual way. In fact, almost everything has been different this time. Some of the songs have been very hard to mix (and the annoying parking garage construction under the studio with huge explosions every day adding the 'flavor') and some have been easy.

The material sounds fresh and new. Some people will be quite surprised, I must say."


STRATOVARIUS will be teaming up with INTO ETERNITY for a North American tour beginning in mid-April.



10/04/2005 – DREAMTALE singer quits

Vocalist Jarkko Ahola has left Finnish metallers DREAMTALE. Ahola's official statement regarding his departure reads as follows:

"I am sad to announce that I have to step aside from DREAMTALE. My time is totally taken by another band called TERÄSBETONI. Therefore I think it's not fair for the rest of the band that they can't do what they do the best: play live shows. So, in this situation it's better for all of us someone else to take my place in this great band. I wish the best for all of you - the band and you readers. It has all been my pleasure.

And it's possible that we will be playing together again, someday..."


DREAMTALE's third album, "Difference", was released earlier this month via Spinefarm Records. The follow-up to 2003's "Ocean's Heart" was recorded at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with Tolkki producing and was mixed at Finnvox studios by Mikko Karmila.



09/04/2005 – DUNGEON to support MEGADETH in Australia

Fresh from their successful Australian tours with NIGHTWISH and ANGRA, Australian power metallers DUNGEON have announced that they will be supporting MEGADETH on the entire Australian leg of their "Blackmail the Universe" world tour. The band have also announced a new rhythm section which was carefully chosen from a flood of auditions. They are Glenn Williams (bass, who previously toured with DUNGEON as a temporary member during last year's EDGUY Australian tour) and Tim Yatras (drums, who has been a DUNGEON fan since he was 11 years old and is an absolute monster player).

Tim and Glenn will be joining Stu (guitars) and Lord Tim (vocals, guitars) on a world tour scheduled for the middle of the year. Dates are being locked in right now.

DUNGEON supporting MEGADETH:

Apr. 14 - Brisbane, AUS @ The Arena
Apr. 15 - Sydney NSW, AUS @ University Roundhouse
Apr. 16 - Melbourne, AUS @ Queensbridge Hotel

For more information, visit www.dungeon.cd.



09/04/2005 – MANOWAR: 'Hell On Earth IV' details revealed

MANOWAR is proud to announce the upcoming release of their newest video, "Hell On Earth IV", which contains 2 video discs and 1 audio disc for a total of 4 1/2 hours of total viewing time.

More details on the availability to be confirmed soon, watch here!

Main Disc:

* Highlights of the entire 2002 "Warriors of the World" tour
* 1 hour and 30 minutes of main program
* 6 bonus songs equaling 30 minutes of additional material
* 11 full live songs
* Subtitles in 12 languages (Czech, English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish and Turkish)
* 5.1 surround sound mix
* Private behind the scenes footage
* A true visual tribute to the fans
* Highlighting concerts in 35 cities throughout Europe
* Shot with 70 camera angles
* Commentary track with all band members
* Director Neil Johnson's commentary track
* Personal commentary track by Joey DeMaio
* New artwork by fantasy art legend Ken Kelly

Bonus Disc:

* 1 hour of behind the scenes footage
* 1 hour of complete TV shows featuring MANOWAR (incl. "TV-Total", Olli Pocher, VIVA Comet and Popkomm Gala)
* Special commentary track featuring director Neil Johnson and Joey DeMaio
* Subtitles in 12 languages (Czech, English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish and Turkish)
* 30-minute hidden easter egg with special commentary track by editor and director

Audio Disc:

* Contains brand new audio track by MANOWAR (taken from their forthcoming album)



08/04/2005 – FALCONER: New song posted online

A brand new FALCONER track, entitled "Purgatory Time", has been posted online at MetalBlade.de (Real Audio).

"Purgatory Time" comes off the group's fourth studio album, "Grime Vs. Grandeur", due on May 2 via Metal Blade Records.

"This song is the most 'power metallish' on the album which varies from power metal to folky heavy metal to more bluesy and rocky tunes," the band write in a press release.

Regarding the album's overall approach, FALCONER mastermind Stefan Weinerhall recently said, "It is what we would like to call a comeback, since the last album felt a bit too unfocused and not as good as it should have been. This time though... oooh, how I have rubbed my hands to some of the stuff!"

On this album, Stefan shared songwriting duties with singer Kristoffer Göbel, which gave provided the CD with more variety, allowing Stefan to only bring forth his best ideas and dump the rest.

"Kristoffer was also more confident in the studio this time," said Weinerhall, "which cannot be missed by anyone. He fits the songs like a glove! With songs like "Humanity Overdose", "Emotional Skies", "Child Of The Wild", and "I Refuse" we feel like if people don't like this it's time to start doing something else 'cause people are retarded!"

"Grime Vs. Grandeur" features guest performances by Snowy Shaw (MERCYFUL FATE, KING DIAMOND, DREAM EVIL) on drums and Andy LaRocque (KING DIAMOND) on additional lead vocals.

"People will recognize the FALCONER sound but also get to discover a new aspect of it," concluded Stefan. "So prepare to get a dose of the best melodies in the metal world spiced up with more attitude and a heavier sound than ever before."



08/04/2005 – DRAGONLAND confirmed for U.K.'s THIRTEENTH DAY FESTIVAL

DRAGONLAND, the Gothenburg, Sweden-based melodic metal sextet, have been confirmed for The Thirteenth Day Festival, set to take place July 24 at the Academy in Birmingham, England. The festival billing is shaping up as follows:

SONATA ARCTICA
NORTHER
FINNTROLL
EPICA
DRAGONLAND
SEASONS END
INTENSE

Tickets are priced at £18 (plus booking fee) and are available from See Tickets, Ticket Web, Wolverhampton Civic Box Office, Birmingham Academy Box Office and Swordfish Records.

DRAGONLAND's third album, "Starfall", was released last year via Century Media Records.

The follow-up to 2002's "Holy War", "Starfall" was recorded at Tom Englund's (EVERGREY) Division One Studios in Sweden with Englund producing. The Japanese edition of the album, available via King Records, includes a bonus track, a cover of X-JAPAN's "Rusty Nail".



08/04/2005 – DOMINE To Support JUDAS PRIEST In Italy

Italian "epic power metal" band DOMINE have been confirmed as the support act for JUDAS PRIEST on Sunday, April 10 at Mazda Palace in Milan, Italy.

PRIEST were originally scheduled to be supported by PARADISE LOST at the Milan show - a plan which had to be abandoned after PARADISE LOST guitarist Greg Mackintosh was given strict doctor's orders to rest following a ruptured appendix operation and subsequent peritonitis.

(Thanks: www.all-about-chaos.net)



08/04/2005 – IRON SAVIOR mainman comments on new label, collaboration with ex-BLIND GUARDIAN drummer

IRON SAVIOR mainman mainman/producer Piet Sielck has posted the following message on the band's official web site:

"You haven't been hearing from me in a while since I was and still am loaded with work. Nevertheless I think it's about time to give you an update of what has happened or is about to happen. Well - a couple of months ago together with ex-Sanctuary staff Christine Stephan and Dirk Putzke I founded our new record label Dockyard1. This idea has been on my mind for a long time and now that this great opportunity popped up I just grabbed it. For further information on this matter feel free to visit our homepage www.dockyard1.com.

But this isn't the only news - For quite a while by now I am working on a production, which - so are my hopes - will catch some interest. Besides Jens and Emil of PERSUADER from Sweden (I produced their last album) and little Piet there also is another old friend of mine involved. Ex-BLIND GUARDIAN Thomen Stauch. Yes, correct - ex! And here we are coming right to the point, because the information about this collaboration was supposed to see the light of the day later. The split with BLIND GUARDIAN [was] for me not too surprising but yet unexpected, indeed changed our planes regarding SAVAGE CIRCUS (name of Thomen's new band). Starting out as a 'job-on-the-side' SAVAGE CIRCUS now turned into Thomen's top priority main band.

All started out on a weekend in Andalusia during my vacation last year where Thomen, based in Madrid, was visiting me. He played some quite convincing raw songs composed by himself to me, which actually reminded me quite a bit of the "Tales..." / "Somewhere..." / "Imaginations..." period of BLIND GUARDIAN. As an 'answer' to that, I put on the PESUADER album. Thomen, being quite impressed right away, asked me to establish contact between him and the guys. Thomen knew that his songs wouldn't fit too much to the direction BLIND GUARDIAN was and still is heading - too many different tastes within the BLIND GUARDIAN camp. Therefore he was determined to form something besides BLIND GUARDIAN based on his three songs. Sometime later he asked me if I would be interested in adding some input. [IRON SAVIOR's] "Battering Ram" was just finished, so the timing was good and I agreed.

In August we all met for the first time at Powerhouse [studio] to get used to each other and to record one song as a demo. After four days of intense, funny, hearty and creative work we ended up with two songs instead of one. Well - this was the birth of SAVAGE CIRCUS. After multiple meetings and exchange of ideas using the Internet (mp3) we came up with nine songs. Most of the recordings are done by today. Right now I am already mixing. Within the next days you will be invited to listen to some samples on www.iron-savior.com, www.dockyard1.com and www.thomen.de. Enjoy!

Of course, I personally guarantee that the IRON SAVIOR will continue on just like before. Because of the BLIND GUARDIAN split, SAVAGE CIRCUS is not linked to their schedule anymore and all the planning is in Thomen's and my hands. Therefore problems like with Kai and later on also with Jan when he joined MASTERPLAN are banned completely from the very first minute.

If you want to learn more about Thomen's split with BLIND GUARDIAN, check out www.thomen.de and www.blind-guardian.com.

For now my best regards from Hamburg and again a big thanks to all our fans for your support!"



07/04/2005 – SAVAGE CIRCUS: Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer joins forces with PERSUADER members

Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch has teamed up with PERSUADER members Jens Karlsson (vocals, guitar) and Emil Norberg (lead guitar) in a new project called SAVAGE CIRCUS. This collaboration is not to be confused with Stauch's as-yet-unnamed band with SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid, which recently finished recording a full-length album.

Stauch has issued the following statement regarding SAVAGE CIRCUS's formation and musical direction:

"It began two years ago in my home studio while working on a few songs for a BLIND GUARDIAN album. As I finished the first song I realized very quickly that it would not fit in with the BLIND GUARDIAN style. My new song seemed to sit much more with "Tales" / "Somewhere..." / "Imaginations..." as for "A Night at the Opera" kind of thing.

At that moment the idea was born to bring a few people together to write more songs like this. But the question was with whom? I received a parcel in May 2004 with the new IRON SAVIOR CD, sent to me by my old mate Piet [Sielck]. After listening to the album I rang Piet to congratulate him on his newest creation. As we started talking I told him about my new project and asked him if he would be interested to listen to my new songs. He invited me to spend a weekend in his house in Andalusia, so I went.

He listened to three songs and became very enthusiastic and said with a wide grin, "You have to listen to this stuff I recently produced. I'm sure you will recognize the style." As soon as I heard the first notes I found myself barely breathing? this was melody power metal with the voice of a singer, similar to Hansi's in the good old days of BLIND GUARDIAN.

The band was called PERSUADER, a young band from Sweden. This band seemed to fit musically as well as lyrically perfectly into my plans. And as Piet told me they were extremely nice with their feet on the ground. I realized these boys where on my wavelength and decided to contact them to see if they were interested to work with me on my new project. Piet gave me their contact address and after this incredible weekend I made my way back to Madrid.

On the next day I contacted Jens and Emil to send them the files of the songs on MP3. They loved the idea about the project instantly, and this united the three of us. Suddenly the idea came to me to ask Piet to help with the production, as a good friend for the last 15 years and a fantastic producer would make a lot of sense. Luckily enough he was happy to work with us. The band was almost complete with only a bass player missing, Piet offered to take over the job on the bass, which gave us enough time to find the right man for touring.

In August we all met up in Hamburg at Piet's Powerhouse Studio to get know everyone personally and to produce a demo of our first song. It turned out to be incredibly productive and we hit it off with each other instantly. We managed to produce not only one but two songs. Death Devil was born with the pseudonyms Unholy, Rotting Corps, Hellmaster and Angelsmasher.

We were extremely motivated and decided to keep on writing songs in Sweden, Germany and Spain. We exchanged ideas over the Internet, via MP3s and meet as often as possible to produce more songs. In the end we had 9 killer songs to show for our work and had managed to get a very fair deal with the brand new label Dockyard1 where Piet is a partner. This gave us the perfect base with which to work together from and it has been altogether very positive.

In February 2005 we began the production. We laid the drum tracks down in Karo studio, where I recorded the drums previously for my other project modern metal style with Björn, the singer of SOILWORK. After 10 days the drums were recorded leaving only bass, vocals and guitars to go. Piet is at this moment mixing but we will not be able to finish before mid-May because we don't want to miss out on the contribution of Rolf Koehler, who tours unfortunately until the beginning of May. At the moment you can hear on my homepage all the MP3s in pre-production style.

The cooperation with Björn was originally planned as a side-project and to be released later, but due to the separation with BLIND GUARDIAN plans changed. SAVAGE CIRCUS is from now on my main band, which is more suitable because style wise I feel more at home here. I still stand 100 percent behind my work with BLIND GUARDIAN but my favorites were always "Tales..", "Somewhere...", "Imagination..." and "Nightfall...".

At the same time, I'd like to make it absolutely clear SAVAGE CIRCUS or any other project of mine never had anything to do with my separation with BLIND GUARDIAN. We just realized in the last three years that our musical and personal differences were too hard to overcome.

I realize that my statement might not be enough for some of you. Maybe it helps to see it more like a broken-down marriage, as in that case you would want to keep the internal details to yourself as well. It is always hard for people not directly involved to understand each side 100 percent. It is easy to judge - be it be justified or not. We decided not to give in-depth details to our fans but the basic reasons are still valid.

So it will be the best for everyone involved, as hopefully it turns out the best for me. I can understand your initial disappointment, but I hope you can accept our decision.

I can assure you that I read every single word in the BLIND GUARDIAN forum and I'm truly moved by your sadness and all the supporting words. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your faith in us and your mails. I'd like reassure you that our separation is definitely NOT the beginning of the end for BLIND GUARDIAN. All we want is to produce honest music, which is almost impossible if members in the band don't have the same goal. We preferred in the end this separation so BLIND GUARDIAN can still be a band with integrity - only the players have slightly changed. I will do the same only with different musicians and different visions for the future.

I hope that you like SAVAGE CIRCUS and you allow us entry into your fantastic world of melody power metal.

At the very least I hope I made you a bit happier."



07/04/2005 – RAGE to perform at FRANKFURT MUSIK MESSE

German power metallers RAGE have confirmed a live appearance at this year's Frankfurt Musik Messe on Saturday, April 9 at 5:00 p.m. The show will take place in the Music Hall Arena and will be presented by Siggi Braun - Fine Young Guitars.

The Musik Messe in an annual event that take place in Frankfurt, Germany and often features guests, clinics and performances from some of metal's finest.

For more information, go to this location.

RAGE recently signed a long-term deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The group's follow-up to 2003's "Soundchaser" is expected in late 2005/early 2006.



07/04/2005 – HAMMERFALL guitarist attends WRESTLEMANIA, calls it 'greatest weekend of my entire life'

HAMMERFALL guitarist Oscar Dronjak has posted the following message on the group's official web site:

"Sorry for not updating for a while, we have been busy preparing for the tour that starts tomorrow in Finland. But more on that later, first things first. Chart entries. Our new album have been extremely well-recieved all over Europe, as we are still in the charts for the fourth week in both Austria and Germany, as well as the first week in Italy and the second in Switzerland. But the most surprising news comes from Sweden. "Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken" managed to stay in the top 10 for four weeks, a record for us. Three straight 4's and a 9, unbelievable! Thank you everyone all over the world who has bought our albums, you are the greatest fans anywhere! You never disappoint us, and I sincerely hope we never will you.

As Fredrik Kreem [webmaster] wrote in the news yesterday, the show in Pratteln on April 21st is now sold out, and an extra show will take place on the 20th. So, if you missed getting tickets to the previously announced gig, don't worry; You'll get another chance to catch the band live the day before. Thus, the following show has been added to the tour: April 20th at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland.

The rehearsals have been going very well, I think you'll find somewhat of a different band on stage this year. Not any less energetic - probably even more! :-) - but more focused and tighter than ever. Incidentally, the Helsinki show tomorrow marks the first HAMMERFALL gig in twenty (20!) months, incredible as that sounds. It's safe to say that we are psyched and excited like never before.

Before signing off, I would like to take the opportunity to thank some people for the single greatest weekend of my entire life. A friend of mine and I flew over to Los Angeles to go to WrestleMania 21. We were invited by Mikkey Dee, who would perform live at the event with his band MOTÖRHEAD and who knows I am a huge wrestling fan. We were in heaven, shaking hands and taking pictures with a lot of wrestlers we have only seen on TV before. Just hanging backstage at the biggest PPV of the year, taking everything in, is an inerasable memory!

Thank you, Mikkey, for taking great care of us and making sure everything went well, thank you Lemmy and Phil for not having a problem with us tagging along, and thank you Chris Jericho, Triple H, William Regal and the entire WWE for letting us come to the aftershow party and providing us with an experience I shall cherish for as long as I live. If anyone ever ruled, it's all of you."


Check out a photo of Oscar and MOTÖRHEAD hanging out backstage with Triple H.



06/04/2005 – CLOUDSCAPE: 'Under Fire' video posted online

Swedish metallers CLOUDSCAPE have uploaded the video for the song "Under Fire" at their official website. The clip, which was filmed and directed by Rainer Holmgren (who has previously worked with PAIN OF SALVATION and NASTY IDOLS, among others), was included on the European limited-edition version of their self-titled debut album and will also be featured on the U.S version that will hit the stores later this month.

"Cloudscape", which contains 12 songs and one bonus track for Asia, was recorded at RoastingHouse Studios in Malmö, Sweden with producers Anders "Theo" Theander (PAIN OF SALVATION, LAST TRIBE, PATHOS) and Pontus Lindmark. Acclaimed guitarist Torben Enevoldsen (SECTION A) contributes a guest solo to the album's opening cut, "As the Light Leads the Way".



06/04/2005 – PARAGON: 'Revenge' U.S. release date set

Magick Records has set an April 19 North American release date for the new PARAGON album, "Revenge".

Magick titles are distributed by Navarre Distribution and available for order everywhere Cleopatra Records are found including all indie and chain stores nationwide. The record will also be available through the mailorder divisions of The End Records, Century Media, Sentinel Steel and online at CleoRecs.com and Amazon.com. The U.S. list price is just $12.98.

"Revenge" marks the follow-up to the band's successful album "The Dark Legacy", released by Remedy in 2003.

The new CD was recorded in part at Karo studios with the help of an engineer, and the rest of the recording process and mixing was done at Piet Sielck's (IRON SAVIOR) new Powerhouse Studios. The artwork for the record was done by the Argentine artist Valgorth. PRIMAL FEAR guitarist Tom Naumann makes a guest appearance on lead guitar in the track "Impaler".

"Revenge" track listing:

01. Intro / Impaler (04:47)
02. Assassins (04:16)
03. Traitor (05:13)
04. Masters of the Seas (09:24)
05. Revenge (04:20)
06. Symphony of Pain (04:23)
07. Beyond the Veil (07:59)
08. The Battle Rages On (04:43)
09. Art of War (03:19)
10. Empire of the Lost (05:42)
11. The Gods Made Heavy Metal (MANOWAR cover)
12. Masters of the Seas (edit - Japan bonus song)

Check out "Revenge" audio samples at this location.



06/04/2005 – NOCTURNAL RITES: 'Demons Of The Opera' photos posted online

Swedish power metallers NOCTURNAL RITES were recently granted a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform two shows alongside a renowned philharmonic orchestra at the opera house in their native Umeå, Sweden.

The shows were conducted by Hans Ek, who has previously directed the musical "Chess" at Cirkus in Stockholm, conducted the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and worked in nearly every opera house in Sweden.

NOCTURNAL RITES were the headlining act on a bill that will also included two other local bands, PERSUADER and 6TH AWAKENING, whose own material was interpreted by the orchestra. In addition, the opera house's smaller venue hosted a selection of other local metal bands, who performed the good old-fashioned way.

The two-day event, aptly dubbed "Demons of the Opera", took place on April 1 and April 2. Check out some pictures from the shows at this location.



06/04/2005 – RHAPSODY: 'The Magic Of The Wizard's Dream' video posted online

RHAPSODY's video for their new single, "The Magic of the Wizard's Dream", has been posted online at the group's official web site. Check it out: MPEG, Quicktime.

The spectacular video was shot in high definition by noted director Neil Johnson, featuring a 40-piece orchestra and a 20-piece choir.

In addition to the four language versions, the band also produced two brand new studio tracks, the fast and powerful "Autumn Twilight" and the "sweet" and traditionally influenced "Lo Specchio D’Argento", which also appear on this new offering.

The "The Magic of the Wizard's Dream" single is available in the following formats:

CD digipak single:

01. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (English version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
02. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (Italian version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
03. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (French version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
04. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (German version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
05. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (orchestral version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
06. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (original version)
07. Autumn Twilight
08. Lo Specchio D'Argento

CD slim box single:

01. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (English version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
02. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (German version duet with Christopher Lee and Fabio Lione)
03. The Magic of the Wizard's Dream (original album version)
04. Lo Specchio D'Argento
05. Last Angels' Call



05/04/2005 – Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer explains his departure

Former BLIND GUARDIAN drummer Thomen Stauch has issued another statement explaining in greater detail the circumstances that led to his departure from the group. Stauch's statement reads as follows:

"Hi friends,

I hope this news doesn’t shock you too much, but from this point on I am no longer BLIND GUARDIAN's drummer.

Over the last few years, it had become clear that we had too many differing opinions, plus our vision for the future was not the same. We, as a band, talked openly about our differences and came to the conclusion that separation would be the only solution.

One of the main aspects of this decision is the fact that our friendship still exists, and for that to remain it is necessary to go separate ways, at least musically.

I wish BLIND GUARDIAN all the best and much success for the future, hoping that they find another drummer as soon as possible. I would also like to use this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who stood by us through all those years, especially our fans. You are the best!!!! I hope to see you soon!

The biggest 'thank you' goes to Hansi, Marcus and Andre for almost 20 fantastic years."


Stauch is currently working on an as-yet-unnamed new project with SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid. The collaboration, which originally went under the COLDSEED moniker, was previously described by Strid as "a mixture between RAMMSTEIN and ALICE IN CHAINS." A full-length album was recently recorded and is due later in the year.



05/04/2005 – THUNDERSTONE: 'Tool Of The Devil' video posted online

THUNDERSTONE's video for the track "Tool of the Devil" has been made available for download at this location (Quicktime, 30 MB). The clip was shot with director Jari Mutikainen and producer Jan Streng.

"Tool of the Devil" comes off the group's third full-length album, "Tools of Destruction", due on April 18 via Nuclear Blast Records.



05/04/2005 – WIDOW: 'On Fire' cover artwork posted online

Raleigh, North Carolina-based melodic metallers WIDOW have uploaded the cover artwork for their new album, "On Fire", at this location.

The follow-up to "Midnight Strikes" (Tribunal Records), "On Fire" is scheduled for release in June via Cruz Del Sur Music. "On Fire" was issued in Japan on March 16 via Spiritual Beast Records.

"On Fire" track listing:

01. An American Werewolf in Raleigh
02. The Preacher's Daughter
03. Here to Stay
04. Re-Animate Her
05. Sinderella
06. Not Alone
07. Dead End
08. Misstery
09. Family Affair
10. I'll Bury You Alive (mp3)



05/04/2005 – KATAGORY V: Live video posted online

Utah-based progressive/power metal band KATAGORY V have uploaded a five-minute video clip of the group performing at the ProgPower IV festival pre-party showcase.

Commented bassist Dustin Mitchell: "This is some footage taken from the show we played in Atlanta, GA for the pre-party at the ProgPower festival. It was one of the best shows we had played in 2003, and quite possibly the best show we have done.... ever, hands down! We decided while we are wrapping up the loose ends on the new album, that we'd have some of the home video stuff we had lying around put together as a short video for the fans in the meantime, especailly those that have never seen KATAGORY V live before. It's very entertaining and I got a real kick out of it myself, it's worth the time to download for sure!

We took two hours of live stuff and goofing off, and chopped it down to 5 minutes for your downloading pleasure. Maybe one day you might see a lot more or even the whole show on a DVD... but that will be much farther down the road, so for now, check it out and send it to other KAT 5 fans and your freinds.... we put this together special, just for all of you out there!"


Download the video clip at this location (Windows Media, 17 MB).

KATAGORY V are currently putting the finishing touches on their third album, "The Rising Anger", tentatively due later in the year.



04/04/2005 – THUNDERSTONE enter Finnish single chart at no. 3

Finnish melodic power metallers THUNDERSTONE have entered the national single chart in Finland at position No. 3 with their limited-edition "Tool of the Devil" single. View the whole chart at this location. In addition to the title track, the single includes a special edit of "I Will Come Again" and "Tool of the Devil (Dance of the Devil Mix)". The single is only available in Finland and through the Nuclear Blast Records e-shop.

As previously reported, THUNDERSTONE are scheduled to release their third full-length album, "Tools of Destruction", on April 18 via Nuclear Blast Records.

"Tools of Destruction" was mixed at Timo Tolkki's (STRATOVARIUS) Goldenworks studio with producer/guitarist Nino Laurenne.

"Tools of Destruction" track listing:

01. Tool of the Devil
02. Without Wings
03. Liquid of the Kings
04. I Will Come Again
05. Welcome to the Real
06. The Last Song
07. Another Time
08. Feed the Fire
09. Weight of the World
10. Land of Innocence

The digipack version will include two bonus tracks. The Japanese edition contains a cover of the DIO classic "Rainbow in the Dark".

THUNDERSTONE shot a video for "Tool of the Devil" with director Jari Mutikainen and producer Jan Streng. Check out pictures from the video shoot here.

THUNDERSTONE's sophomore album, "The Burning", entered the Finnish Album chart at position No. 17 upon its release in January 2004. The follow-up to 2002's "Thunderstone" was recorded at Sonic Pump studios with producer Laurenne and was mixed at Finnvox studios with Mikko Karmila (NIGHTWISH, CHILDREN OF BODOM). Included on the CD is a guest appearance by SYMPHONY X guitarist Michael Romeo in the track "Drawn to the Flame".



04/04/2005 – GOTHIC KNIGHTS seek vocalist

Brooklyn-based power metallers GOTHIC KNIGHTS are looking for a pro vocalist in the style of Rob Halford (JUDAS PRIEST) and Eric Adams (MANOWAR). The band is currently working with Magic Circle Music for their next album, which will be distributed through SPV. For more information, contact metal@gothicknights.com or visit www.gothicknights.com.

GOTHIC KNIGHTS have finished writing 13 new songs for their fourth album and "are going to begin pre-production on all of them" very soon, according to a posting on the group's web site. "We are looking to write about another five songs after this before we go into the studio to begin working on our next CD. We are also looking to book some shows for the summer."

GOTHIC KNIGHTS' most recent album, "Up from the Ashes", was released in 2003 via Limb Music Products.



04/04/2005 – MORIFADE: 'New songs sound amazing'

Sweden's MORIFADE have posted the following update on their official web site:

"We have been rehearsing live material a lot with [new singer] Kristian [Wallin, ex-RISING FAITH] and all songs sound amazing, he's a quick learner!

Also, a while ago we recorded four new demo songs that we will present to several record labels around the world, some of this new material will also be presented at this website to you, our fans.

Have in mind that this is only demo material and that not all of it, or maybe even any of it for that matter, will be recorded for an upcoming album, on the other hand, maybe we decide to put all of it on an album... However, that is for the future to tell."


As previously reported, MORIFADE have officially split with Holland's Karmageddon Media (formerly Hammerheart Records), the label that issued the band's most recent album, "Domi<>nation". "We feel that Karmageddon Media can't do anything more whatsoever for us and lately there has been no real contact between us and them," the band write on their web site. "We will search [for a new label home] and [interested] labels are free to contact MORIFADE at info@morifade.com."



04/04/2005 – MANOWAR and RHAPSODY: More North American tour dates announced

MANOWAR will be teaming up with RHAPSODY and HOLYHELL for a North American tour beginning on June 2 in Cleveland, Ohio.

Italy's premier symphonic metal band RHAPSODY will make their debut performance in America as MANOWAR's special guests. Having achieved sales of more than one million records, known the world over for thrilling audiences with their unforgettable stage show as well as their very own style of "film score metal," RHAPSODY have elevated symphonic metal to unheard of extremes. With their newest release, "Symphony Of Enchanted Lands Part Two - The Dark Secret", featuring legendary actor Christopher Lee as guest narrator, RHAPSODY have risen to a new height in the world of metal and as the special guests of MANOWAR you can be sure that this will be everything fans expect from them and more.

Joining the fight to make this a triple threat is the newest signing to Magic Circle Music, HOLYHELL. This Pandora's box of intense melodic power features the newest must-hear voice in metal today, Maria Breon. This is an all star band of master shredders featuring Joe Stump "The Shred Lord", known worldwide for his power metal style of playing and writing, who will burn down one side of the stage while being joined by Tom Hess, Chicago's premier guitar demon who will unmercifully scorch the other side of the stage. HOLYHELL promises total metallic and melodic devastation with their brand of mystical, magical metal.

Confirmed North American dates:

Jun. 02 - Cleveland, OH @ House Of Blues
Jun. 03 - Winston Salem, NC @ Ziggy's
Jun. 04 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ The Culture Room
Jun. 05 - Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
Jun. 07 - Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade
Jun. 08 - Charleston, SC @ The Music Farm
Jun. 09 - Baltimore, MD @ Sonar
Jun. 11 - Buffalo, NY @ The Icon
Jun. 12 - Toronto, ON @ Opera House
Jun. 13 - Quebec City, QU @ Albert-Rousseau
Jun. 14 - Montreal, QU @ Metropolis
Jun. 16 - Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre Of Living Arts
Jun. 18 - Worcester, MA @ The Palladium
Jun. 19 - New York, NY @ B.B. King's



04/04/2005 – KAMELOT: 'The Black Halo' enters the charts

Kamelot's new masterpiece "The Black Halo" enters the charts on the following positions:

Sweden - #44
Belgium - #81
Finland - #50
Germany - #81

Also on tour, everything seems to be going well. Everyone is very enthusiastic about the band's performances.



04/04/2005 – BRAINSTORM: 'All Those Words' video posted online

BRAINSTORM's video for the track "All Those Words" has been posted online at MetalBlade.de (Windows Media). The video was shot in an old mine in Germany, where "the special atmosphere deep inside these mighty mountains was perfectly captured," according to a press release.

"All Those Words" comes off the German power metallers' long-awaited new full-length album, "Liquid Monster", due on April 4 via Metal Blade Records. A limited-edition version of "Liquid Monster" will be available as a CD+DVD digibook, featuring the album, a video documentary of the band's last world tour and additional bonus material.

BRAINSTORM recently announced that female singer Carmen Schäfer will be joining them on stage for the song "All Those Words" at their shows in Ludwigsburg (April 27) and Budapest (April 30) on the upcoming tour. "Besides these two special performances, all fans can expect amazing shows on the whole tour with tons of light effects and fantastic stage buildings!" drummer Dieter Bernert said in a statement. "As we always promised to bring our own show with us, now you will see what a real BRAINSTORM show is all about!"

BRAINSTORM's "Inside The Monster - World Tour 2005 / 2006" will kick off April 19 at The Rock in Copenhagen, Denmark. A U.K. tour supporting SAXON was recently rescheduled for October.



03/04/2005 – BLIND GUARDIAN part ways with drummer

German power metallers BLIND GUARDIAN have parted ways with longtime drummer Thomen Stauch. Frontman Hansi Kürsch's official statement on the matter reads as follows:

"No news is good news. This obviously is bad news. After walking along the same musical paths for about 20 years and after several long, open and honest discussions between the four band members, we have all (including Thomen) come to the same conclusion that it is now best for Thomen to leave the band.

Since we developed different musical and personal directions for quite a while now, it turned out to be more and more difficult to find acceptable and suitable solutions for everyone in the band. Such circumstances would have eventually caused severe internal problems. Therefore, to avoid any damage to our close relationship this difficult step is essential. In terms of creativity or progression neither one of us would like to hold the other one back. Due to that fact the split seems to be a sad, but reasonable solution. We wish Thomen all the best for the future and hope to come up with more positive news in the near future.

...and day shall come again"


In a separate statement of his own, Stauch emphasized that the split was amicable and offered his gratitude to his former BLIND GUARDIAN colleagues:

"As you may have read in Hansi's statement, I am no longer the drummer of BLIND GUARDIAN. From now on we are going our separate ways, at least musically. I must admit it is quite a sad, but necessary decision in order for us to remain friends.

I stand fully behind Hansi's declaration, so I will keep my statement as short as possible, and wish BLIND GUARDIAN all the best for the future, hoping that they find another drummer without any hassle.

I would also like to use this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you who stood by us through all those years, especially our fans. You are the best!!! I hope to see you again soon!

A big thank you to my old colleagues, Hansi, Andre and Marcus, for all the amazing times we've shared."


Stauch is currently working on an as-yet-unnamed new project with SOILWORK vocalist Björn "Speed" Strid. The collaboration, which originally went under the COLDSEED moniker, was previously described by Strid as "a mixture between RAMMSTEIN and ALICE IN CHAINS." A full-length album was recently recorded and is due later in the year.



01/04/2005 – HELLOWEEN schedule Finnish tour dates

German power metallers HELLOWEEN have scheduled three dates in Finland in late November as part of their European tour in support of their upcoming album. Confirmed dates so far are as follows:

Nov. 18 - Zlin, CZR @ Novesta vanue
Nov. 19 - Pardubice, CZR @ Duhova Arena
Nov. 20 - Plzen, CZR @ Locomotiva vanue
Nov. 22 - Zilina, SK @ vanue Na Boriku
Nov. 26 - Helsinki, FIN @ Kaapelitehdas
Nov. 27 - Oulu, FIN @ TBA
Nov. 28 - Tampere, FIN @ Pakkahuone

As previously reported, HELLOWEEN have selected the track "Mrs. God" as the first single from their upcoming album. The single will be released on July 4, while the as-yet-untitled follow-up to 2003's "Rabbit Don't Come Easy" (Sanctuary Records) will follow a few weeks later from SPV Records.

Apart from the title track, the single will contain various bonus features such as an exclusive non album track, one album track and the video for "Mrs. God", which will be shot in Nueremberg, Germany in early May.

HELLOWEEN, who recently replaced drummer Stefan Schwarzmann with former RAWHEAD REXX skinsman Dani Löble, are promising "awe-inspiring loads of double-bass madness and the trademark HELLOWEEN-style of songs and arrangements on their upcoming album," according to a posting on the group's web site.




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