House Of Lords have recently completed the production for their sixth studio album which will be titled "Come To My Kingdom". The band went into the studio with the precise task to create the perfect follow up to the very successful "World Upside Down" which was one of the most acclaimed releases of 2006.

According to singer James Christian "Come To My Kingdom is a record which is a solid reminder that House Of Lords is a musical force to be reckoned with in the melodic rock world". The new album is filled with expertly crafted songs that cross over from the melodic world to 2008, without missing a beat. The sheer power of the vocals and music will make you all a believer that "Come To My Kingdom" is destined to become a true classic House Of Lords album.

Frontiers Records will release the CD on March 14th 2008 with the band starting a full European tour during the spring 2008.

Jorn are currently in Tommy Hansen`s Jailhouse Studio in Denmark, putting the finishing touches to the new studio album which is due for release in May 08 via Frontiers Records.

The band are planning to tour around Europe next year and hopefully other parts of the world as well. In the mean time you are all welcome to check out the band's official website: www.jornlande.com, and sign up for an account in the Stormcrows forum, to meet other dedicated fans and friends.

Angels & Airwaves, the band put together by former Blink 182 member Tom DeLonge return to the UK for a series of live dates in April. Promoting their recently released sophomore album, I-Empire, the band take in the following shows:

April 10th - Manchester Academy
April 11th - Glasgow Carling Academy
April 12th - Birmingham Carling Academy
April 14th - Southampton Guildhall
April 15th - Bristol Carling Academy
April 16th - London Astoria

Exodus have begun to announce dates for their forthcoming UK & Irish tour that is set to take place in April. The first quartet of dates confirmed for the trek are as follows:

8th April - London Camden Underworld
9th April - Leeds Rio's
10th April - Dublin The Voodoo Lounge
11th April - Glasgow Cathouse

New Domain Album In The Works - Scheduled for 2008 Release

German melodic metallers Domain are currently in the studio recording their ninth album, entitled "The Chronicles of Love, Hate and Sorrow". According to the band, the CD will be a concept album along the lines of the "Last Days of Utopia" LP, but this time it will be arranged and conceived as a "metal opera."

Vocalist Nick Ruhnow created a 12-chapter unfolding drama based on the legendary epistolary novel "Die Leiden Des Jungen Werther" by the famous German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The opus will be performed by guitarist Axel Ritt, keyboardist Erdmann Lange, bassist Steven Wussow and Ruhnow himself, enriched with hard and anthem metal, epic heavy rock and ballad elements.

Released for the first time in 1774, the story "Die Leiden Des Jungen Werther" became a key work in German literature during the "Storm And Stress" period and describes an impossible love against all moral concepts, which provokes extreme emotional reactions up to the point of a spate of suicides among young readers of the novel. Once again, the album will be produced by mastermind Axel Ritt.
 

Out of the depths of the Michigan music scene arises one of the most innovative prog-rock group's to emerge on these Eastern shores in quite some time. Tin Scribble, who's debut CD release from 2005 Children of Saturn garnered critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic, is preparing to re-record the epic in its entirety live. An ambitious project that will come to fruition on Jan 12, 2008 in Detroit.

Led by guitarist/vocalist Michael Moore, Tin Scribble take musical paths not travelled by many, but well worth the journey. With music reminiscent of prog legends like Hawkwind, Gong, King Crimson and Van Der Graaf Generator, Tin Scribble is a force on the progressive rock front to be dealt with. Along with the live re-recording of the band's debut CD, Tin Scribble are fervently working on their follow-up studio album, tentatively titled The Most Unaccountable Of Machines. The band hope to have the album completed for release in late 2008.

"I'm very excited about the new album," says Michael Moore. "Children Of Saturn Live will show how the new line-up has evolved the material beyond my expectations."

Tin Scribble arose from the ashes of Michigan art-rock troupe House of Usher, who released a well-received CD in the late 1990s called Body Of Mind. Band members Michael Moore and bassist Mark Jardine decided to form a new group to take their musical vision a step further, thus the birth of Tin Scribble and the release of a successful slice of eclectic prog Children Of Saturn. Here's what some of the music press have said about Tin Scribble:

" 'Dark, tuneful, politically-conscious art rock' is how another reviewer (Joe Lisboa) described this debut album by the American band Tin Scribble, which is a very apt description to my opinion which I can't top, so I just borrowed that from him. Children Of Saturn does indeed try to spread some conscious thought around the world about the 'insanity and ignorance around us' and it becomes pretty clear right at the start of the album that they are not very fond of the Bush administration (who is?). Some songs are a clear plea for independent and critical thinking and some others uncover the band's grievance about people's attitude towards each other and politics in the world. Michael Allen Moore who is the main writer of the band clearly has an urge for some world-improvement." - DPRP

"I was itching to listen to this album as, in a sense, as a Capricorn I am a 'child of Saturn' and secondly because I found the cover photograph intriguing (for 'intriguing' read 'a little scary'). Michael Allen More (guitar, vocals, keyboards) wrote all but one of the tracks and was in the band House Of Usher with Tin Scribble bass player Mark Jardine. Also in the band is Bryan Atterberry (guitar, Celtic harp, synth) and Clinton Sabon (drums) with guest musician Colleen Cameron (piano, flute, voice, backing vocals). To get the best out of this album, listen to it on a decent hi fi or headphones. I say this because I also played it on my laptop, which is not that good for sound anyway, but the difference was huge. Children Of Saturn is progressive but a more appropriate term would be art rock - there may be elements of, say, Genesis and King Crimson, but with greater subtlety in the progressive sense." - Hairless Heart Herald

"...probably the most essential observation: most of the music has a fairytale feel to it and is amazingly imaginative. Conclusion, Tin Scribble 's success is due not only to their technical prowess, but also (and in large part) to their good taste to know when delicacy is more important than energy and vice versa. Although different, their Children of Saturn is every bit as good as Body of Mind by House Of Usher."

Along with Michael Moore and Bryan Atterberry who plays guitar, synthesizer and Celtic harp, Tin Scribble's new line-up includes George Bous on drums and Arabic percussion and William MacLoud on bass and double bass. In support of Tin Scribble's new CD releases, plans to tour in 2008 are currently in the works. For more information check out the band's official website: www.tinscribble.com

Frontiers Records have announced the signing of White Lion for their first studio album in 16 years entitled "Return of The Pride".

White Lion left its mark in the late 80's with a series of hit singles and videos that defined the MTV generation, thanks to the likes of "Wait", "When The Children Cry", "Tell Me", "Broken Heart" and "Little Fighter". But equally so, the band was also recognized for its signature album tracks that transcended socio-political themes such as "Lady Of The Valley", "Cry For Freedom", "Lights N Thunder" and "Warsong".

White Lion disbanded in 1991 and their members moved on to their own paths. In 2003 singer Mike Tramp built again the band around the talents of Jamie Law on guitar, Claus Langeskov on bass, Henning Wanner on keyboards and Troy Patrick Farrell on drums. This line-up appeared with much acclaim in such Festivals as Bang Your Head, Gods Of Metal, Sweden Rock and Rocklahoma.

And if these stand out live performances aren't testimony enough, then the new album will surely once again assert White Lion as a legitimate musical force. The first White Lion studio record in over 16 years was recorded during 2007 in both Australia and Copenhagen and is entitled "Return of the Pride". According to singer Mike Tramp this title could be interpreted in two ways "In a musical sense we have taken a step back in time, rather than a step forward in time. Over the course of this album lyrically and musically many concepts and themes have been explored, maybe "Return Of The Pride" means something entirely different".

Produced by Mike Tramp and Claus Langeskov, White Lion features now a truly international line-up of musicians handpicked by Mike himself, the band will hit the road again in the summer of 2008. "We are not interested in fixing what isn't broke. Our mission is simple, to bring the classic sound of White Lion to the people across the world that still live for that music" says Tramp, stating that the band's new album will be "classic rock in its truest form and a representation of the musical influences that have attached themselves over time".

"Return of The Pride" will be released in Europe on Frontiers Records on March 14th 2008 with release in Japan to happen on King Records. More details about the album will be released at a later stage.

Royal Hunt Announce Details Of "Collision Course. Paradox II"

After 8 studio albums, 3 live albums/DVD´s and a few special releases (EPs, compilations etc.) - combined sales over 1,5 million copies - the band decided to produce a sequel to their critically acclaimed release from 1997 "Paradox" (an album, which in a majority of respected publications like: Metal Hammer, Burrn, Break Out, Classic Rock, Metal Edge etc., was honourably mentioned as one of the most essential albums of the 90´s).

The sequel (Collision Course. Paradox II) takes off from the idea and atmosphere of its predecessor but - without a doubt - sounds charged to go for 2007. No ammunition's being saved for this one - 6 months of recordings in NorthPoint Studio, mix at EMI Studios, best musicianship possible (the band was there to define the term neo-prog with their first release back in 1991) and even a bunch of good friends as participants: Doogie White (Rainbow, Y. Malmsteen), Ian Parry (Elegy, Consortium Project), Kenny Lubcke (Jokers Wild, Narita), Henrik Brockmann (ex-Royal Hunt, Evil Masquerade) among others. And yes, there are female voices, real violins, cellos and woodwinds thrown in for good measure.

With this album Royal Hunt is introducing their new lead singer Mark Boals (ex-Y. Malmsteen, Ring Of Fire). His great voice and talent, plus many years of experience are perfect fit for the band.

Andre Andersen comments on the band's website: "Album is done. It's such a great feeling to finally be able to hold your new "baby" in your hands (weird at the same time. looking at this tiny CD, knowing how much time and money went into its creation). And a bit sad at the same time - we had such a blast making it, there's been tons and tons of great moments in the process: countless barbeques and other assorted "nights out", a bunch of dear friends/guests who joined us along the way and even the fact that all of us - for almost 6 months period - had this album as a cornerstone of our lives, the goal which we were working so hard to achieve - as a unit. I know, I know it sounds sentimental but there's always that bittersweet feeling than the job is done and you're looking back at the process. But now it's all history - for us, at least. For you there's another album to discover and - hopefully - to enjoy, and we all wish you the latter. in spades".

The lyrical concept is as controversial as the original "Paradox" - this time concentrating on a "collision course" of modern Western world and "a new breed", grown on Eastern religious movements. Musically you'll have it all - album runs in a "non stop" fashion (all songs are chained together): there are huge epics, intricate progressive arrangements and all good things metal with killer melodies. and there will be videos. and a concert tour. Combine all this with an astonishing line-up and a grand scale production, and you've got a winner: ROYAL HUNT is about to reinvent this style of music - don't miss it. Frontiers Records will release in Europe "Collision Course.. Paradox II" on March 14th 2008, with more details to be announced at a later stage.

Z ROCK 08 Venue Revealed

Z Records have disclosed the location of the Z Rock 08 venue. The all new venue "The Asylum " is in Hampton Street, Hockley, Birmingham and will open its doors during late March 08. Acts already confirmed for Z Rock 08 include Bonfire, Britny Fox, Von Groove, Shy, Stormzone and Redline with at least 3 more to be announced during early January for the two day event on May 16/17 2008. Tickets are on sale now at www.zrecords.net  or www.myspace.com/zrockfest 

Ex Survivor vocalist Jimi Jamison will embark on his first ever UK tour in May 2008. UK Female fronted Rockers Dante Fox (featuring vocalist Sue Willetts) have been chosen by Jimi Jamison to not only support but also to perform as his band on all nine dates

Dante Fox will be promoting their latest album "Under The Seven Skies" which has received great reactions from both press and fans. The album was released on Frontiers Records earlier in the year. Tickets are now on sale from the tour promoters website www.factory5events.co.uk

May 8th - Bilston Robin Hood 2
May 9th - Manchester Academy
May 10th - Sheffield Boardwalk
May 11th - Nottingham Rock City
May 13th - Cardiff The Point
May 15th - Norwich Waterfront
May 16th - Bournemouth BIC Pavillion
May 17th - London Shepherds Bush
May 18th - Bristol Bierkeller

Airbourne head across to the UK for a series of dates in February in support of their new album Running Wild which is released via Roadrunner on Januray 28th. The full list of confirmed shows are as follows

5th Feb - Oxford Jericho Tavern
6th Feb - Birmingham Bar Academy
7th Feb - Exeter Cavern Club
8th Feb - Manchester Roadhouse
9th Feb - Edinburgh Hive
10th Feb - Glasgow King Tuts
11th Feb - Nottingham Rock City
12th Feb - Bristol Louisiana
16th Feb - Sheffield Corporation
17th Feb - Stoke Sugarmill
18th Feb - London Borderline

Still Remains have been announced as the replacements for 36 Crazyfists on the upcoming Bullet For My Valentine Tour. The full list of dates are as follows

Jan 30th – Brighton Dome
Jan 31st – Newport Centre
Feb 1st – Wolverhampton Civic Hall
Feb 3rd – Glasgow Academy
Feb 4th – Manchester Academy
Feb 7th – London Brixton Academy

London retro-rockers Slaves To Gravity have just announced a string of UK shows to take place in the New Year. Having entered the UK Rock Chart at number 3, their latest single 'Meantime' is still in the Top Ten five weeks on!! With plans to release their debut album 'Scatter The Crow' in March next year, 2008 looks set to be an exciting year for these rockers!!

Catch the guys at one of the following:

Jan 11th - Cardiff Barfly
Jan 13th - London Camden Underworld
Jan 18th - Wolverhampton Little Civic
Jan 26th - Stoke Sugarmill
Jan 29th - London Purple Turtle
Feb 15th - Tunbridge Wells Forum
Feb 22nd - Southend Chinnerys

Norwegian modern metallers Black Comedy have signed a worldwide deal with Season Of Mist and are scheduled to release their debut album 'Instigator' in early 2008. The Oslo band are finally close to bringing their futuristic metal to the masses. Their debut is set to contain a display of massive guitar riffing, powerful drums, synthetic leads and ear-shattering epic vocals.

The current Black Comedy line up is Jon E. Bergan (vocals), Marius Strand (guitars and vocals). Stefano Bardellotto (guitars and backing vocals), Bjorn M. Borg (synths and programming), Tjodalv (drums) and Memnock (bass guitar).

Following on from the stories earlier in the week with regard to Michael Schenker his agent forwarded on the following press release about Schenker's upcoming plans:

Michael Schenker, one of the great guitarists in rock history (Scorpions, UFO, MSG), is currently setting up a Concert Tour under the name Michael Schenker & Friends “, playing almost all of UK's Rock Clubs starting January 10th stretching as far as March) to shake up the ground for a major MSG UK and World Tour with a Brand New Album Release in April Titled: "In the midst of Beauty” with;

Gary Barden (MSG, Statetrooper) – Vocals
Simon Philips (TOTO, MSG, Jeff Beck) – Drums
Neil Murray(Whitesnake/Gary Moore) – Bass
Don Airey (Ozzy Osborne, Rainbow, Deep Purple) –Keyboards

Michael Schenker says, “With a new Agent and new plans, I want to announce my well being by playing all over the UK before teaming up with the Schenker / Barden MSG formation for a major UK and World Tour in April.”

Tour Dates so far confirmed.

10th Jan - Swindon 12Bar
11th Jan - Crewe Limelight
12th Jan - Blackpool Riffs
16th Jan - Southend Riga
17th Jan - Sutton Boom Boom Club
24th Jan - Falmouth Princess Pavilion
26th Jan - Colchester Twist
9th Feb - Manchester Academy 3
10th Feb - Sheffield Boardwalk
17th Feb - Bristol Thekla
18th Feb - Norwich Waterfront
22nd Feb - Glasgow Cathouse

Further information and updates can be found @ www.michaelschenkerhimself.com

On the upcoming UK dates Michael will sign merchandise after the show, meeting fans at the merchandise stand, and will be giving away a signed guitar to a lucky ticket holder from one of the gigs on the Tour. The Ticket will be drawn at the end of the tour and the lucky winner will get the guitar Michael is recording his new album with.

Devil Sold His Soul have announced details of a UK headline March tour With support from the Mirimar Disaster.

Mixing together an epic and progressive, ocean sized film score sound with a harder, metal edge, Devil sold his Soul’s sound is a fine balance of power, aggression, melody and space. Mile high riffs, crashing percussion, piercing samples and an otherworldly melodic feel inhabit the bands finely tuned sound

Devil sold his Soul follow up their October headline UK tour with Bossk and Nov/Dec tour with Architechts with their biggest headline dates so far across March 2008. Again, DSHS have chosen to take one of the most exciting new, UK underground bands The Mirimar Disaster.

DSHS will also be reissuing their debut ‘Darkness Prevails’ 5 track mini album on March 3rd 08 through Black Willow/Eyesofsound, this time with extra unreleased demos and alternative takes, remixes, new artwork and an extra DVD disc featuring all the bands videos, a making off feature and live performance footage. The band will then be hitting Europe all across April and May 08 for support tours.

The full list of confirmed dates is as follows:

21st Mar - Plymouth White Rabbit
22nd Mar - Trowbridge Terry's Club
23rd Mar - Nottingham Junction 7
24th Mar - Sheffield Corportation
25th Mar - Leeds JosephsWell
26th Mar - Glasgow Tuts
27th Mar - Stoke Underground
28th Mar - Peterborough The Park
29th Mar - Milton Keynes Pitz Club
10th Apr - London Islington Bar Academy (With This Will Destroy You)

Texan heavy-weights The Sword return to the UK in March 2008 following their successful tour with Clutch in April of 2007. Returning in support of their forthcoming and highly-anticipated album ‘God’s Of The Earth’, due for release 17th March on Kemado Records, The Sword are set to lay waste to the UK and show the world exactly who will have the biggest riffs in 2008.

Support comes from Oakland powerhouse Saviours who previously toured the UK as support to Mastodon and start 2008 with the release of their second album (and first for Kemado Records) titled ‘Into Abaddon’. A stunning combination of ‘70s doom, hardcore punk, 90’s black metal and vicious power metal, ‘Into Abaddon’ pushes the concept of heavy music to its ultimate conclusion. This will be the heaviest tour of 2008, make no mistake.

Dates are as follows:
Mar 25th - Nottingham Rock City
Mar 26th - Oxford Academy
Mar 27th - Birmingham Academy
Mar 28th - Manchester Academy
Mar 29th - Glasgow King Tuts
Mar 30th - Stoke Sugar Mill
Apr 1st - Newport TJ's
Apr 2nd - Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
Apr 3rd - London Camden Underworld
Apr 4th - Colchester Arts Centre

AFM Records Updates

Paradox will release their latest album, entitled Electrify, on January 18th.

After delaying the new album "Electrify" for three months, the release date is now set for January 18th 2008. The new CD (produced by Charly Steinhauser himself) was mixed and mastered at the Hansen Studios by Jacob Hansen (Destruction/Hatesphere) in Denmark.

President Evil are set to release their new album on January 25th. Entitled Hell In A Box the album was recorded in the BlueBox Studios by Guido Lucas (Blackmail, Smoke Blow) and mastered in the Stage One Studios by the famous Andy Classen the CD features the following track listing:

Viva La Muerta, Jesus Factor Negative, Hell In A Box, White Fire, King Asshole, The Anti Loser, Bring Out Your Dead, The Return Of The Speed Cowboys, Godforsaken, One Brain Army and New Junk City

The limited Edition of Hell In A Box will also contain the video clip of the title track.

Made Of Hate Release Debut Album on February 22nd

The Made Of Hate debut album "Bullet In Your Head" will be released on February, 22nd through AFM Records. The sound of this newcomer band is fresh and unique, like a perfect mixture between Children Of Bodom and In Flames. The record combines expressive and intense melodies with really aggressive and heavy sounding guitar riffs.

Neverland to release debut album on February 29th.

In 2006, Greek female vocalist Iris Mavraki and Turkish prog/power metal act Dreamtone formed a band, Neverland. Now, two years later they are set to release their first album, entitled "Reversing Time", via AFM Records. The debut CD features great guests from the world of metal including Hansi Kürsch (Blind Guardian), Tom Englund (Evergrey), Mike Baker (Shadow Gallery) and Gary Wehrkamp (Shadow Gallery) and will be available from February 29th

Also released on February 29th is the debut album from X-World 5 entitled Universal Order. The new band, based around the former Hammerfall bass player Magnus Rosen, will release their debut album "New Universal Order" through AFM Records. Besides Magnus, the band also features Pagans Mind vocalist Nils K Rue, guitar players Andy La Roque (King Diamond) and Reeves Gabrels, as well as drummer Big Swede, who will be part of this new band. You can check out the first album from this fantastic new line up on February 29th.

Los Angeles glitter and glam rock heroes Spiders & Snakes are celebrating the release of their new 'Melodrama', album on Corporate Punishment Records (distributed by Koch Entertainment) by making a few waves to close out 2007 and kick the new year off in grand style.

The band has three songs, "Friends Like You", "Shoot Me Down" and a cover of the Bay City Rollers' classic "Yesterday's Hero" featured on Cleopatra Records' DIGITAL-ONLY release, "Metal School 101', which currently a top seller on iTunes. They are set to perform at the annual Cleopatra Records Christmas Party held on December 19, 2007 at The Viper Room on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood, CA alongside such artists as Jetboy, Blackboard Jungle, Peppermint Creeps, Dr. Know and more! This will be the band's last performance of the year.

Spiders & Snakes' Lizzie Grey and Timothy Jay were recently featured in the Chrome Dreams DVD release, "Duns N' Roses: 2 Classic Albums Under
Review: Use Your Illusion I and II". The duo were interviewed about the impact that Guns N' Roses had on the Hollywood, California music scene and also Lizzie Grey's personal involvement with the various GNR bandmembers. Drummer, Jay, gives his take as well on the Guns N' Roses phenomena - having been part of the infamous band London with Spiders & Snakes co - founder Lizzie Grey (London at one time or another featured Izzy Stradlin, Steven Adler and Slash), Tim also worked during the day at both Capitol-EMI and Metal Blade Records in the GNR era, ironically having previously interfaced professionally with Lonn Friend and Malcolm Dome whom are also featured in this documentary film. Snippets of the new Spiders & Snakes song "Shoot Me Down" (from the brand new album
'Melodrama') were used by the producers of the film as background music in this unauthorized documentary film.

Lastly, Spiders & Snakes will be a part of the special 'Hollywood Rocks' triple vinyl album released in early 2008 through Cleopatra Records. The release will be a limited run of only 500 hand-numbered and coloured copies designed in a custom, hand-packaged boxset. The label hand-picked the rare Spiders & Snakes track "The End of Marylou" (from their 1991 debut EP 'Arachnomania') for this set.

What's next for Spiders & Snakes? First a music video is in the works with famed director/producer David Sterling from the Sterling Film Factory(Gothic Vampires from Hell, The Curse of Lizzy Borden) on a track to be named later. In January 2008 the band will be signing autographs at the NAMM show in Anaheim, California at the Cleopatra Records booth and will be performing as part of a live concert series at a venue TBA as part of the NAMM Concert Events.. The band has also scheduled a last minute performance for this Saturday,Dec. 15th at Club Vodka / The Knitting Factory in Hollywood, CA. The band's set time will be at 7:00pm sharp.

For more information, please visit www.spidersandsnakes.com  and www.myspace.com/spidersandsnakes

36 Crazyfists forced to push back release date of The Tide And It's Takers and cancel European tour.

Due to a delay in the recording process 36 Crazyfists have been forced to push back the release of their upcoming Ferret Music debut, The Tide and Its Takers.  The album which was originally slated for a March 3rd release is now slated to drop on April 28th.  The album will still be produced by the band’s guitarist Steve Holt and mixed by Andy Sneap.

Because of the setbacks in recording the band are also, regrettably, going to have to cancel their UK and European tour plans.  The band was scheduled to play with Bullet For My Valentine overseas and is disappointed to say that they will not be partaking in the tour.  

36 Crazyfists look forward to getting out on the road and seeing their fans in 2008.  Remember to mark your calendars with the new date of April 28th, 2008 for The Tide and Its Takers hitting stores.

Frontiers Records have announced the release of Khymera's third album "The Greatest Wonder" on February 22nd 2008!

Born as studio project featuring Kansas' Steve Walsh and Italian multi-instrumentist Daniele Liverani (Genius), Khymera reaches now the third chapter with its ultimate evolution in a stable band line up and musical concept.

With British twin brothers Tom and James Martin working on the complete songwriting and a line-up that – following the amazing responses gathered by the second album "A New Promise" – features again Liverani's keyboards prowess, Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) on bass and vocals, Tommy Ermolli on guitars and Dario Ciccioni (Hartmann) on drums, Khymera offers one of the most shining examples of what European Melodic Rock is all about: crystal clear production, soaring vocals, killer musicianship and a songwriting that reminds the heydays of the genre when bands like GIUFFRIA, ICON, FM and SIGNAL ruled the airwaves !

Ivory-tinkler Daniele Liverani says: "It was a great journey to produce and arrange these songs provided by the Martin brothers. I tried to give the songs the full and warm sound of the '80s with my keyboard work, but with a touch of modern style. Both Dario on drums and Tommy on guitars did a great job and of course Dennis delivered some incredible vocals and bass too. I truly think this new album is a step ahead for us as a band. With every album we gel better and better together. I can't wait to start working on the next chapter and hopefully to perform some shows during the new year!".

Just like the previous record "A New Promise" delivered a killer melodic rock selection, the new one adds a richer and more mature songwriting along, with truly outstanding musicianship and huge production.

"The Greatest Wonder" final track listing includes:

Ablaze (intro); Beautiful Life; Borderline; Burn Out; Since You Went Away; Love Has Been And Gone; No Sacrifice; The Greatest Wonder; Fight For Yesterday; If I Can't Be; Love Will Find You; Stay Forever; The Other Side

The next step for Khymera will be the debut as live unit on stage and plans are already underway for a live debut in the European melodic festivals of 2008.

Former Angra/Shaaman frontman André Matos has signed a deal with SPV for the European release of his solo debut, "Time to be Free". The CD, which was produced by Roy Z is scheduled to be released on February 25, 2008 and features the following track listing:

Menuett, Letting Go, Rio, Remember Why, How Long (Unleashed Way), Looking Back, Face The End, Time To Be Free, Rescue, A New Moonlight and Endeavour

California-based metallers Benedictum will release their sophomore album, "Seasons of Tragedy", on January 25th via Locomotive Records. The follow-up to 2006's "Uncreation" will contain 10 original songs plus a cover version of the Accept classic "Balls to the Wall". The digipack edition will also include a cover of Rainbow's "Catch the Rainbow". Guest musicians on the CD include George Lynch Manni Schmidt, Jeff Pilson and Craig Goldy. The full track listing for Seasons Of Tragedy is as follows:

Dawn of Seasons, Shell Shock, Burn it Out, Bare Bones, Within the Solace, Beast in the Field, Legacy, Nobodies Victim, Balls to the Wall, Steel Rain and Seasons of Tragedy

Ferret Music has announced the signing of San Diego’s Lower Definition!

The band self-released their debut Moths over the past year, which showcases their melodically driven yet edgy post-hardcore sound, and is very excited to sign with Ferret, tells says drummer Valentino Arteaga.

“We're ecstatic. They're loyal to all their bands and a bunch of our favorite bands are on this label as well. We are excited to bring something new and different to the label!”

Lower Definition will be bringing just that on their debut Ferret release, which they will head into the studio to record in February ’08 with acclaimed producer Kris Crummet (Drop Dead, Gorgeous, Kaddisfly, Dance Gavin Dance). The band, made up of Arteaga, Matt Geise (vocals), Stefan Toler (bass), Eddy Marshburn (guitar), and John Martinez (guitar), formed over six years ago, and Arteaga cites their mission as “to be able to share our passion for writing and performing music to people across the world. Our mission is portrayed through our music, we play music because are passionate about it.”

Lower Definition has already been on a number of notable tours, including Taste of Chaos, Warped Tour, and Saints and Sinners. They have shared the stage with bands ranging from Glassjaw to Deftones to Angels and Airwaves, and describe themselves as “privileged to play with many of our favorite bands as well as the ones who were most influential throughout the beginning of our career.” The band will be playing a show in their hometown of San Diego, at Soma, on New Years Eve, and plan to be on tour in 2008.

Stuck Mojo haves signed a deal with Napalm Records. The label will re-release the group's latest album, "Southern Born Killers", with three bonus tracks on February 29th

Commented Stuck Mojo guitarist Rich Ward: "We feel good about Napalm; they understand that their groups need to take their music to their fans by touring and they have given us the support we need to make records and tour — without taking a piece of everything, which seems to be a common practice with most labels these days."

In support of the release Stuck Mojo will embark on a European tourbeginning late February and taking in the following UK dates along the way:

Mar 11th - Glasgow King Tuts 
Mar 12th - Manchester Academy 3
Mar 13th - London Underworld

Sum 41 are heading to the UK to play the following shows next year:

Feb 21st - London Brixton Academy
Feb 22nd - Norwich UEA
Feb 23rd - Cardiff University
Feb 24th - Southampton Guildhall
Feb 26th - Manchester Academy
Feb 27th - Leeds University
Feb 28th - Nottingham Rock City
Mar 1st - Glasgow Barrowlands
Mar 2nd - Newcastle Academy
Mar 3rd - Birmingham Academy

In support of their recently released new album The Harsh Reality Waysted have lined up a quartet of UK shows for March. Dates confirmed so far are:

Mar 1st - Colchester The Twist
Mar 6th - London Camden Underworld
Mar 8th - Grimsby The Yardbirds Club
March 19th - Glasgow King Tuts

In a posting on the official website Iced Earth mainman John Schaffer has announced that vocalist Matt Barlow has rejoined the band in place of Tim Owens.

Schaffer's full statement on the change in singer is as follows:

"Once again the winds of change are upon us, and this time I can say that I am very happy about the result. While out on the European tour I had several in depth discussions with many loyal Iced Earth fans. A common theme of these discussions was how much Matt is missed. I agreed with the fans that things were not the same and that it was a very special period in Iced Earth’s history. When I heard several months ago that Matt was going to be doing a project in music again, I was thinking about contacting him and seeing what his intentions were. I didn’t act on this because I was so focused on the writing of the new epic, and frankly, it just didn’t seem realistic.

Well, after getting out on the road and speaking with many of you directly, I decided to call Matt and see how he was doing and if he was interested in working together again. I am proud to say that he is coming back to Iced Earth and we will be getting back to work in the studio very soon. Matt will be singing on Part 2 of the Something Wicked concept CD and we will be looking forward to getting out on tour and delivering a series of Iced Earth shows that will rival any in the history of the band. And there will be a proper DVD filmed from this period, something we’ve all been waiting for.

I want you all to know that it was you who made this a reality. I have missed Matt’s presence onstage and in my personal life in a big way over the past few years, so I appreciate your honesty in our discussions. It did help me realize the decision to move forward with pursuing this. The fans have spoken and we have delivered! You true fans know that I’m a straight shooter, I say what I mean and mean what I say. And though I value your opinions greatly, you must believe that this is a decision that comes completely from the heart and is not motivated by anything other than what feels the best for Iced Earth. This is the way that things have always been dealt with, for better or for worse, but always honestly and from the heart.

Tim Owens is a great and talented singer and I wish the best for him and his future on a personal and professional level.

There will be more news soon as to further developments and plans. This will push back the release of Part 2 a bit. Not because we couldn’t be ready to record in time, but because of a new addition to Matt’s family in early 2008!  I am very happy to announce that Iced Earth is truly BACK!

Iron Maiden today announced they have renewed and extended their historic 28-year recording relationship with EMI  for the World excluding USA.

Rod Smallwood commented, "We've had three tremendous decades working with EMI and have many friends there. Through many "regimes" EMI have always given us their full support and our relationship with their companies worldwide has always been excellent. We've got some great plans for 2008 and beyond, and I can't wait to get back on the road next year on a tour which appropriately celebrates the band's formative years. "

Tony Wadsworth, Chairman & CEO, EMI Music UK said, "Since the early eighties Maiden has been a flagship band for EMI and we have enjoyed a fantastic long term relationship. Now that we can work with and support them in their broader music activities, our goal is to help build on the foundations already in place for an even more successful future."

Velvet Revolver return to the UK in March for a comprehensive tour in support of latest album Libertad.

Slash, Duff McKagen & co have confirmed the following dates:

Mar 15th - Liverpool University
Mar 16th - Leeds University
Mar 17th - Manchester Apollo
Mar 19th - Newcastle Carling Academy
Mar 20th - Glasgow Carling Academy
Mar 22nd - Wolverhampton Civic Hall
Mar 23rd - Birmingham Carling Academy
Mar 25th - London Brixton Academy
Mar 27th - Brighton Centre

The Wildhearts frontman Ginger will release a new solo album, entitled "Market Harbour", in late January/early February. The CD will contain twenty one songs/segues and has a running time of sixty minutes and twenty four seconds. With no break in the music throughout the album, and packed with a weird and wonderful array of samples and loops in addition to instrumentation, the record is a showcase for the diverse talent of Ginger.

From the classic Ginger-esque opener and first single "Casino Bay" (a mid tempo stormer awash with hooks) to country-and-western meets-"Hats Off To Roy Harper"-esque skiffle instrumental "The Ninns Of Mourning", from the Roger Waters-infused "House Of Moths" to the punked-up three-minute blast of "Overeasy", from the Burt Bacharach lilt of 67-second instrumental "Tenants" to the beautiful soaring instrumentation and melodies of "I Knew You (An Amensis)", from the do-wop pop of Couple Trouble" to the rolling toms of instrumental "Eye Of The Rotunda" and the slow-build epic album closer "Shatterproof" with its haunting refrain of "How Can You Kill Something / That Will Not Die," "Market Harbour" is a wildly ambitious album that only someone of Ginger's creative talents could pull off as successfully as he does.

"Market Harbour" track listing:

Casino Bay, Soap Hammer, Queen Of Leaving, Attentionette, The Ninns Of Mourning, House Of Moths, How Hard Can You Make It?, Awareness & The Great Integrity, A Philosophical Conversation About Age, Josser Bank, Tenants, Regret.com, Black Yeah, I Knew You (An Anemesis), You & Me (That's What I Want), Couple Trouble, The Perilous Burden Of Prodigal Obligation, A Malibu Chronical, Overeasy, Eye Of The Rotunda and Shatterproof

Elliot Minor Announce New Single And UK Tour.

With three hit singles already under their belt, York quintet Elliot Minor have quietly infiltrated the charts and are poised to crash into the mainstream in a major fashion. Their new single, Still Figuring Out, will be released via Repossession/Warner Bros. on January 28th and will be backed by a comprehensive UK tour.

Heralded by Kerrang! as “Muse meeting Fall Out Boy”, the band have already charted with their debut ‘Parallel Worlds’ and the Top 20 follow-up’s ‘Jessica’ and ‘The White One Is Evil’, they also played to a 10,000 capacity festival crowd at Download’s Dimebag Darrell Stage and supported Fall Out Boy on their UK tour. It’s evident that Elliot Minor are Britain’s biggest best kept secret.

Receiving incredible early support from Radio 1, XFM, Capitol, GCap, Emap, Kerrang, Total Rock and amazing TV support from Kerrang, MTV, Skuzz, The Sound and E4 Music, the guys also have an incredibly healthy MySpace page. Their webisodes are hilarious, informative and some of the most viewed on YouTube.

Elliot Minor are currently mixing their debut album. Produced by Jim Wirt (Hoobastank, Incubus) , their self titled album was recorded in Los Angeles earlier this year.

Musically, Elliot Minor mix influences ranging from the piano-infused hard rock of ‘Time After Time’ to the sonically charged ‘Parallel Worlds’, which is embellished with grandiose orchestration. They deliver pitch perfect three-way vocal harmonies on the infectious ‘The White One is Evil’ and add an undertone of ultra-melodic punk to ‘Still Figuring It Out’. Their video for “Jessica” was the most requested video on Kerrang TV.

In the live arena, Elliot Minor perform with an accomplishment that belies their youth. Be sure to catch them at a show near you on their UK tour in early 2008...

Jan 25th - Oxford Academy
Jan 26th - Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
Jan 27th - Luton Sub Club
Jan 31st - Wrexham Central Station
Feb 1st - Sheffield Leadmill
Feb 2nd - Northampton Soundhaus
Feb 3rd - Leicester Princess Charlotte
Feb 8th - Barrow-In-Furness The Canteen
Feb 9th - Sunderland Independent
Feb 10th - Hartlepool Escobar
Feb 12th - Liverpool Academy 2
Feb 14th - Dublin Spirit
Feb 15th - Limerick Dolans Warehouse
Feb 16th - Derry Nerve Centre
Feb 17th - Belfast The Limelight
Apr 4th - Birmingham Sanctuary
Apr 5th - Leeds Met
Apr 6th - Newcastle Academy
Apr 7th Glasgow The Garage
Apr 9th Manchester Academy 2
Apr 10th Norwich Waterfront
Apr 11th Cardiff Uni
Apr 12th London Astoria 2

Black Tide may be the most explosive thing to happen to music since hard rock and heavy metal transformed the face of popular culture in the mid-‘80s. They not only embrace the charisma, character and unwavering attitude of those who shredded before them, but they do so in a manner that would make the virtuosos that inspired them proud. The results are a renegade metallic assault hasn’t been encountered since Metallica killed ‘em all in ’83.

Light From Above, Black Tide’s debut album returns the power to metal. Produced by the legendary Johnny K (Disturbed, Machine Head, Soil), Light from Above opens with the explosive ‘Shockwave’, a storming track full of knuckled thrash riffs, squealing guitars, rampaging drums and an instantly memorable chorus. Other standouts include ‘Shout’, ‘Black Abyss’, ‘Let Me’, ‘Live Fast Die Young’ and the Maiden-esque ‘Warriors of Time’ as well as a ripping cover of Metallica’s ‘Hit The Lights’.

The Miami band mates made waves when they were kicked off the Jagermeister stage at OZZfest 2007 for being too young, only to then be placed on the main stage by Sharon Osbourne to open the festival daily. With musical influences from classic metal, to Motley Crue inspired rock ‘n’ roll, a punk rock spirit and a virtuosity to be reckoned with, the band deliver it all with an infectious youthful energy. At the ripe ages of 14-19, Gabriel (lead vocals), Alex (lead/rhythm guitar), Zakk (bass) and Steven (drums) are ushering in one hell of a coming of age for heavy metal.

Check out this power metal outfit live in the UK when they support Avenged Sevenfold on the following dates:

Jan 17th - Southampton Guildhall
Jan 18th - Norwich UEA
Jan 20th - Wolverhampton Civic 
Jan 21st - Manchester Academy
Jan 23rd - Nottingham Rock City
Jan 24th - London Brixton Academy 
Jan 26th - Leeds University
Jan 27th - Cardiff University
Jan 29th - Newcastle Academy
Jan 30th - Glasgow Academy

Metal Blade Records is proud to announce As I Lay Dying's Grammy Nomination for Best Metal Performance for “Nothing Left,” the first single from their newest release, An Ocean Between Us.

“I thought someone was pulling my leg when I first heard that we're nominated for a Grammy this year,” says vocalist, Tim Lambesis. “I'm completely honoured! Who would have thought you could play metal and still make your parents this proud? Now I'll have to go out and rent a tux to wear for the third time in my life. I knew I should have just bought one the first time…”

This band that Alternative Press calls “…one of the best pure-metal bands America has to offer” had their highest BILLBOARD Top 200 debut of their career with this album (#8) – also the highest debut in their label’s 25-year history. Metal Blade owner and CEO Brian Slagel comments on the label’s 2 Grammy nominations: All of us at Metal Blade Records are extremely honoured to have As I Lay Dying and King Diamond, nominated for Grammy awards. They both truly deserve this honour for the great artistry they have accomplished on these tremendous releases.

The acclaim for As I Lay Dying's An Ocean Between Us  is widespread. Decibel Magazine (USA) states “…to these battered ears (this album) is a revelation…” and Kerrang! (UK) says “(this album is) by far the most aggressive, in your face statement they have ever made.” Abort Magazine (Canada) adds of their progression “An Ocean Between Us is their largest notch yet. Growing technically and musically as a band, this recording shows a much fuller sound then in previously album. These twelve tracks show a definite maturity and diversity to the band, there is something here for every fan of tight, fast, smart metal.”

The bleak, futuristic video for “Nothing Left” was shot in Van Nuys, California at Sound City Studios with Brian Thompson (Killswitch Engage, Angels & Airwaves) lending his directorial talents. “The high concept storyline mixed with the bands ripping performance should make this video a metal favourite,” says Thompson. The story, which was conceived by the band and fine-tuned by Thompson, follows a female character through a series of events which takes place within a decaying, future landscape. The video saw its initial debut on MTV2’s Headbanger’s Ball on August 11th and continues to run periodically on the show.

As I Lay Dying play the following UK shows in March:

Mar 20th - York Fibbers
Mar 21st  - Aberdeen Barfly
Mar 22nd - Liverpool Barfly
Mar 23rd - Cardiff Barfly
Mar 24th - Cambridge Barfly

The Associated Press reports that the death last month of Kevin Dubrow, lead singer Quiet Riot, has been ruled an accidental cocaine overdose. Clark County coroner spokeswoman Samantha Charles confirmed the cause Monday (December 10) after toxicology results were received. Dubrow was found dead Nov. 25 at his Las Vegas home. He was 52.

Thunder will play a short acoustic set at The Garage in Glasgow on Jan 10th as part of the 1st Birthday Party for 96.3 Rock Radio. Other bands set to appear at the bash include Logan, Toby Jepson, The Almighty, Dougie White and members of Gun. Tickets are priced at £15 each, and all proceeds will go to Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy. Doors are at 18:30, first band 19:00.