31st March

Dare Added To Firefest Bill

Firefest is proud to announce the addition of the final band to the line-up for the Town and Country Club show, in Bradford on May 7th. The band is none other than Dare. Following hot on the heels of an extremely successful tour with Asia, Dare have confirmed their participation in Firefest 2005 and are planning a longer and more comprehensive show than seen on their recent tour.
Dare for many, are the epitome of British AOR, their debut album Out of the Silence being regarded by many as a classic of the genre, with Abandon, King of Spades and Into the Fire without doubt being some of the finest tracks to emerge from the British AOR scene of the late eighties.
In recent years Dare have continued to release quality albums such as Calm Before The Storm and the current Beneath the Shining Water. The band is soon to release their first live album The Power of Nature on both CD and DVD format. FireFest is delighted to welcome them on board and Dare look forward very much to seeing their many fans, old and new, at FireFest 2005.
The completed line-up for the main Firefest event on May 7th now shapes up as follows: Soul Sirkus, TNT, Firehouse, Pink Cream 69, Dare, Casnaova, Legs Diamond, Million, House of Shakira and Pride.

31st March

Gotthard

Gotthard, who play the Bllodstock Open Air Festival at Catton Hall, Derbyshire on June 24th will release a new single, enititled Lift U Up, through Nuclear Blast records on April 25th. The single is taken from the bands new album 'Lipservice' which is currently scheduled to hit stores on June 6th.

31st March

Paul Di'anno

June 2nd - Glasgow Barfly
June 3rd - Aberden Lemon Tree
June 4th - Shetland Isles The North Star
June 10th - Edinburgh Exchange
June 11th - Dundee Doghouse
June 16th - Leeds The New Roscoe
June 17th -Cleethorpes Bootleggers
June 18th - Scunthorpe The Hanger @ The Crosby Hotel,
June 19th - Cannock Los Angeles Rock Cafe
June 21st - Dudley JB's
June 22nd - Bristol Bierkeller
June 23rd - Farnborough The Tumbledown Dick
June 25th - Torquay Half Moon

30th March

Joe Perry Press Release

Columbia Records is set to release Joe Perry, the eagerly-awaited new solo album from rock icon Joe Perry, whose incendiary guitar work and songwriting for Aerosmith helped earn the group its ongoing multi-platinum status, four Grammy Awards, and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (2001). Joe Perry is in stores on Tuesday, May 3.

Recorded at the Boneyard--Perry's basement home studio in Boston--Joe Perry achieves a smoldering intensity via Perry's signature guitar riffs and unmistakable deep vocals. The album's 13 tracks include 11 new Joe Perry original compositions as well as covers of the Doors' "The Crystal Ship" and Woody Guthrie's "Vigilante Man."

"It didn't occur to me to put this record out until Aerosmith decided to take a year off," says Joe about his new album, which opens with the album's first focus track, "Shakin' My Cage." Joe Perry showcases Joe's vocals on songs like "Push Comes To Shove" and "Dying To Be Free" and his musical chops on instrumentals like "Mercy" and "Twilight."

"It's as honest a record as you're gonna get," says Joe Perry, revealing the nature of this true solo work. In fact, Joe sings all the vocals and plays all the guitars, bass and keyboard parts on Joe Perry. Perry also produced the album, which was co-produced by Paul Caruso, who recorded and engineered the disc and played drums throughout. Don't look for a who's who list of guest players here, except for a friend who teaches at the Berklee School of Music--"an old-school analog synth guy, Chris Noise, who plays the string part on one ballad, 'Ten Years,'" says Joe Perry.

"Seems like these days that when people go off and do a solo record, it's more the norm to bring in a bunch of all-star friends, but I already have the amazing fortune to play with one of the best singers in the world and the hardest rocking band on the planet," Joe offers, "but also, the way these songs developed from the demos, they already had the sound I was looking for. And it was a refreshing challenge to work this way."

Joe Perry is the fourth solo album from the multi-talented Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. His previous works--as the "Joe Perry Project"--include the self-produced Let The Music Do The Talking (1980) and Once A Rocker, Always A Rocker (1984), along with I've Got The Rock 'N' Rolls Again (1981), all of which were recorded at a time when Joe was on hiatus from Aerosmith. The new album differs from those discs in several key aspects.

"This one didn't come from anywhere near the same space as those albums," Joe explains. "I mean, I had fun doing them and they certainly fulfilled a creative need, but this record reflects the experience of 20 more years of writing and recording and making my way on this planet."

With his home studio located just downstairs from the living quarters, the music on Joe Perry was created organically and recorded under no deadlines or pressure. In fact, the genesis of the album goes back 10 years--the song "Ten Years" was written by Joe as a tenth anniversary gift to his wife, Billie Paulette, with no intention of it ever being heard by the public. The rest of the album was written by Joe as he worked on Aerosmith's Nine Lives, Just Push Play and 2004's acclaimed blues-fest Honkin' On Bobo, the "four star" (Rolling Stone) album on which Joe sang lead vocals on two tracks.

"One day I was complaining about a lack of inspiration and my wife, Billie, in her role as muse, said, 'Get down and sing where you belong,'" says Joe. "I felt I busted loose and started singing where my voice was more natural as you can hear on the song 'Back Back Train' (from Honkin' On Bobo). I discovered a whole new place and it was a whole new vehicle for me. I found I was writing music better suited for my vocal range."

What about Joe Perry's lyrical inspiration for these tunes? "Well, most of the songs are love songs," he confesses. "Some of them are fast and some of them are slow, that's about it. You sing what you know."

Joe Perry's work with Aerosmith has resulted in an unending array of accolades and honors. Some key milestones over the past 30 years include: album sales exceeding 100 million copies; induction in Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2001; four Grammy Awards; 12 MTV Video Awards; two People's Choice Awards; six Billboard Music Awards; eight American Music Awards; 23 Boston Music Awards; and an Academy Award nomination for Best Song, "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" (from the soundtrack to "Armageddon").

Joe Perry will contain the following track listing: Shakin' My Cage, Hold On Me, Pray For Me, Can't Compare, Lonely, Crystal Ship, Talk Talkin, Push Comes To Shove, Twilight, Ten Years, Vigilante Man, Dying To Be Free and Mercy

30th March

Power Quest

UK power metallers have released details of the tracks that will be featured on their forthcoming Magic Never Dies album, due for release on June 6th through Majestic Rock Records. The European version of the album will contain eleven new tracks, which are as follows:

Ascension (intro)
Find My Heaven
Galaxies Unknown
Hold on to Love
Diamond Sky
The Message
Soulfire
Children of the Dream
Strike Force
Another World
Magic Never Dies

The Japanese version of the CD will also feature a bonus track in the shape of 'The Longest Night'. A two minute mp3 clip of the song "Find my Heaven", taken from the album Magic Never Dies is currently being featured on the Power Quest website at www.power-quest.co.uk

30th March

Mitch Perry Project

Z records have just further details and the artwork for the upcoming Mitch Perry Project album, which is now scheduled for release on April 21st. The album, which features guitarist Mitch Perry (who has previously worked with the likes of Michael Schenker, War & Peace & Cher), as well as guest appearances from the likes of Paul Shortino, will contain the following track listing:

Straight To My Heart, No Time For Cryin', Never Mind The Change, Hear Your Heartbreak, Witchdoctor, Leave It To The Law, Believing A Lie, Let It Ride, Money and 45 Reasons

You can check out a review of the album via this link

30th March

Corrosion of Conformity

It's been five years since Corrosion of Conformity last unleashed a new studio album upon the world, but the long wait is now over. COC will release a new album, entitled 'In the Arms of God', on April 4, 2005, for Sanctuary´s Mayan Records label.

Featuring lead vocalist/guitarist Pepper Keenan, guitarist Woody Weatherman, bassist Mike Dean and special guest drummer Stanton Moore, who is a member of the New Orleans jazz-funk band Galactic , In The Arms Of God was produced by John Custer and contains the following new tracks

Stonebreaker, Paranoid Opioid, It´s That Way, Diry Hands Empty Pockets / Already Gone, Rise River Rise, Never Turns To More, Infinite War, So Much Left Behind, Backslider, World On Fire, Crown Of Thorns and In The Arms Of God

30th March

Roadrunner's 25th Anniversary

New York, NY - Roadrunner Records is in the process of putting together a groundbreaking record to mark the label's 25th Anniversary. Tentatively titled "Roadrunner All-Stars", the full length release, a 'master-class' in hard rock, will contain original tracks that are collaborations between past and present Roadrunner stars.

Four central musicians will be chosen to produce and write all the songs. Those chosen thus far are Joey Jordison (Slipknot), Dino Cazares (ex-Fear Factory/Brujeria) and Robert Flynn (Machine Head). The fourth writer/producer is yet to be named. These four musicians will not only play on the songs they have written but also assemble a unique team of artists to appear on each track. In order to cover as wide a spectrum as possible, no musician will play for more than one writer/producer and each song will feature a different vocalist.

Musicians who have already recorded for this project are Dino Cazares (ex-Fear Factory/Brujeria), Andreas Kisser (Sepultura), Paul Gray (Slipknot), Roy Mayorga (ex-Soulfly), Logan Mader (ex-Machine Head), Marcelo Dias (ex-Soulfly), Dave McClain (Machine Head), Nadja Peulen (ex-Coal Chamber) and Mike Sarkisyan (Spineshank).

Some other musicians not yet confirmed but expected to participate are: Max Cavalera (Soulfly/ex-Sepultura), King Diamond (King Diamond/ex-Mercyful Fate), Mark Hunter (Chimaira), Keith Caputo (Life Of Agony), Daryl Palumbo (Glassjaw), Andols Herrick (ex-Chimaira), Trevor Peres (Obituary), James Murphy (ex-Obituary/Disincarnate), Mick Thomson (Slipknot), Kyle Thomas (ex-Exhorder), Matt DeVries (Chimaira), Matt Baumbach (ex-Vision Of Disorder), Rhys Fulber (Fear Factory/Front Line Assembly), members of Killswitch Engage and many more.

"I am really excited about having the opportunity to be a part of this landmark event," says writer/producer Robert Flynn. "I just got Andols (ex-Chimaira) locked in as the drummer, and Mick from Slipknot on guitar, so I'm f***ing stoked! Congrats to RR for lasting 25 years, we'll drink a beer, or four, in their honor!" Writer/Producer Dino Cazares adds "It was a great honor to get to play with some of my friends in other Roadrunner bands. I'm excited for everyone to hear the songs I've written."

Andreas Kisser of Sepultura adds, "I think it was a great idea to do this album, especially for the opportunity to play with great musicians that I know so well but didn't have the chance to do something with. It was amazing to play with Dino, Roy and Paul. We got along very well and the songs are brutal - really heavy, bringing back some old memories and feelings. I hope to do this live sometime. I hope everybody will enjoy listening to this as much as we enjoyed making it."

"I'm really looking forward to the upcoming RR All-Stars record. Mainly for the chance to work with musicians whom I've respected for years and have been heavily inluenced by. Expect a unique record of collaborations of artists through the 25 years of RR," concludes Joey Jordison of Slipknot.

The project is being overseen by longtime Roadrunner A&R man Monte Conner. Mixing duties will be handled by legendary hard rock producer, Colin Richardson. The album is tentatively scheduled for release in the Fall of 2005.

30th March

Statetrooper

Blabbermouth.net are reporting that the recently reformed Statetrooper, the band put together by one time Michael Schenker Group vocalist Gary Barden, have lined up a one off UK show as a warm up for their appearance at this years Sweden Rock Festival. The show will take place at Sheffield Boaldwalk on May 29th. As well as Statetrooper the bill will also include U.K. rockers Double Cross & Rocket with one more band yet to be confirmed

30th March

Michael Schenker

The Michael Schenker Group has now been confirmed as support for all dates on the upcoming Yngwie Malmsteen UK tour in May & June of this year. The dates confirmed for this trek are as follows:

May 30th - London Hammersmith Apollo
May 31st - Wolverhampton Civic Hall
June 1st - Nottingham Rock City
June 3rd - Manchester Academy

30th March

Adam Bomb

29th March

New Blood of British Metal Tour Update

Heading to a venue somewhere near you in the UK is the new Blood of British Metal tour, brought to you by the same people responsible for the Bloodstock festival. It has become apparent that there are a vast number of quality British Metal acts struggling to obtain any form of identity, recognition or sense of achievement, other than giving their all to the music that they believe in. Therefore taking its cue from the  name coined in the late 1970's for the then new breed of UK Heavy Metal bands (the New Wave of British Heavy Metal - NWOBHM), The New Blood Of British Metal (N.B.O.B.M) is the Bloodstock collective of unsigned or independently signed British METAL acts. Current confirmed tour dates from this battery of British metal bands are as follows:

Sun 3rd April - Dudley JB's -  Panic Cell/Fourwaykill/Illuminatus & Nowhere Near The Garden
Sat 9th April  - Liverpool Whiplash - Fourwaykill/The Prophecy & Sith
Fri 15th April - Nottingham Junktion 7 - Panic Cell/Sevenyearsdead/Illuminatus & Nowhere Near The Garden
Sat 16th April - Sheffield Corporation - Panic Cell/Illuminatus/Sevenyearsdead & Infobia
Sat 23rd April - Bloodstock Ireland (Dublin Vodoo Lounge) - Cruachan/Panic Cell & Fourwaykill
Sat 30th April - Newport TJ's - Season's End/Fourwaykill/Liquid Sky & Guests
Mon 2nd May - Newcastle Trillians - Panic Cell & Fourwaykill
Mon 9th May - London Camden Underworld - Panic Cell/Seasons End & Guests (tbc)
Thurs 12th May - York Fibbers - Panic Cell/Sevenyearsdead/Infobia & Nowhere Near The Garden
Sun 15th May - Bristol Bierkeller - Panic Cell/Seasons End & Fourwaykill

You can check out more information on the tour and the bands involved by visiting the website at www.nbobm.com

23rd March

Demolition Ball Update

As reported earlier this month, Demolition Records, in conjunction with Solid Entertainments, will be holding the 2005 Demolition Ball at Newcastle Metro Radio Arena on Sunday 26th June between 4.00pm and 10.00pm. In total 12 acts will be appearing on the day split between 2 stages. The bands so far confirmed for the event include Twisted Sister, Sebastian Bach, Y&T, Manta, Eelectric EEl Shock, Fist and Antiproduct. Further bands will be announced over the coming weeks.

23rd March

Thirteenth Day Festival

Thirteenth Day 2005 is the newest metal festival to hit the UK. The inaugural event will take place on Sunday July 24th 2005 at Birmingham Academy. The event will bring some of the best known acts in the world of metal together for one day of pure power.

Headlining the day will be Finnish band Sonata Arctica. Having recently been nominated for a Finnish Grammy in the best hard rock/metal album category they are the perfect choice for headlining. Sonata have only ever played the UK once before at Bloodstock 2004.

Along with Sonata Arctica, Norther are playing their first ever UK show after almost nine years of pounding their Finnish metal across Europe.

We're also proud to announce that British metal heroes Intense and Britain's answer to Nightwish, Season's End, will also be playing at the inaugural festival.

Joining these bands will be more large European and British metal bands that will be confirmed shortly. Regardless of whether you're a fan of Scuzz or in to your Euro-metal, Thirteen Day will offer plenty for you.

Tickets are on sale now priced £18.00 for the entire day. Tickets are available direct from Birmingham Academy's box office, over the telephone on 0870 771 2000 or from Ticket Web at www.ticketweb.co.uk.

Full details for the festival can be found at www.thirteenthday.co.uk

23rd March

Jake E Lee

Former Ozzy Osbourne/Badlands guitarist Jake E Lee is et to release a new album, entitled 'Retraced' through Mascot Records on April 25th. Following on from numerous other albums of recent times Retraced is an album of cover versions featuring songs originally from the likes of Free, Montroae & Trapeze.

Teaming up with Lee for the album are drummer Aynsley Dunbar (Journey, Jeff Beck, John Mayall, Frank Zappa, Whitesnake), bassist Tim Bogert (Jeff Beck, Cactus, Vanilla Fudge) and vocalist Chris Logan ( MSG-Michael Schenker Group).

The full track listing fro Retraced looks like including the following songs:

Way Back to the Bone, I'll be Creepin', Love Ain't Worth the Blues, Evil, I'll Come Tumblin', Hard Way to Go, Woman, Rock Candy, Guess I'll Go Away, Whiskey Train and I Can't Stand It
 

23rd March

GZR

GZR, the band put together by Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler, will release a new album enititled 'Ohmwork' through Sanctuary Records on May 10th.

Ohmwork, which is the bands third album, will feature ten new tracks which are, Misfit, Pardon My Depression, Prisoner 103, I Believe, Aural Sects, Pseudocide, Pull The String, Alone, Dogs Of Whore and Don't You Know.

Joining Butler in GZR for the album are vocalist Clark Brown and guitarist Pedro Howse who have both previously been involved with GZR releases and new drummer Chad Smith.

23rd March

Audioslave

Audioslave, who visit the UK for 3 headline shows in June, as well as playing the T In The Park Festival in July, will release a new album in May. Entitled 'Out of Exile' the CD was produced by Rick Rubin and will be preceded by a single in the shape of 'Be Yourself'

23rd March

Reading/Leeds Festival Announcement

The headliners for this year's Carling Weekend: Reading & Leeds Festivals were announced on Monday 21st March at simultaneous launch events in both London and Leeds.

The Pixies, Foo Fighters and Iron Maiden will all be making exclusive festival appearances at the three day event, which runs concurrently in both Reading and Leeds from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th August.

Other bands announced for the festivals include Marilyn Manson, Queens of The Stone Age, Incubus & Iggy & The Stooges. The full line-up of bands so far confirmed, alongside the dates they appear at each of the venues are shown below:

Friday 26th August - Reading/Saturday 27th August - Leeds
The Pixies
The Killers
Queens Of The Stone Age
The Coral
Elbow

Saturday 27th August - Reading/Sunday 28th August - Leeds
Foo Fighters
Kings of Leon- only UK festival performances
Razorlight
The Charlatans
Jimmy Eat World

Sunday 28th August - Reading/Friday 26th August - Leeds
Iron Maiden
Marilyn Manson
Incubus
Iggy & The Stooges
NOFX

23rd March

Bruce Dickinson

Bruce Dickinson - New Solo album ‘Tyranny of Souls’ Released 23rd May 2005

Bruce Dickinson is an artist who has influenced thousands of singers, musicians and fans alike in his outstanding role as the front man of legendary band Iron Maiden. He has also on to achieved great success as a solo artist, and is also acclaimed as a Radio DJ, TV presenter, pilot, author and voice of modern music.

It has been seven years since Bruce released his last solo album ‘The Chemical Wedding’ which received massive critical acclaim and explored intriguing and dark Blakean themes. The intervening years have seen him make a highly successful return to Iron Maiden, with two huge albums and record breaking live shows and tours.

‘Tyranny Of Souls’, Bruce’s new solo venture, sees him return to once again to collaborate with guitarist/producer/writer Roy Z in Los Angeles. The album is adorned with a 15th century depiction of hell by Hans Hemling and continues this theme to explore dark apocalyptic themes delving into science, theology and of course his love of flight, with thought provoking, intelligent and menacing lyrics that are sure to leave the listener’s mind unsettled. Heavy riff laden songs and explosive virtuoso guitar work from Roy joined with the definitive Dickinson soaring vocals make this ground breaking album a tour de force of modern Metal.

Bruce is a man for all seasons whose punishing schedule would terrify a less driven soul. It was following on from the end of the last Maiden tour that Bruce saw an opportunity to work alongside Roy again.

“With Maiden, once the band have finished up on the tours, we all tend to go our separate ways and do our own thing for a while until it’s time to saddle up again for the next album. I knew I could seize the chance to work with Roy in between his work on the new Priest Album. We both work quickly together which I like and the recording is very organic so it came together quite easily. I’m very proud of it.”

‘Tyranny Of Souls’ will be released on May 23rd through Mayan / Sanctuary Records.

Track listing:
1 Mars Within (Intro)
2 Abduction
3 Soul Intruders
4 Kill Devil Hill
5 Navigate The Seas Of The Sun
6 River Of No Return
7 Power Of The Sun
8 Devil On A Hog
9 Believil
10 A Tyranny Of Souls

21st March

Bloodstock Open Air Update

19th March

Iron Maiden

www.virtualfestivals.co.uk are reporting that Iron Maiden will be headlining the Carling Reading/Leeds festivals as part of their 25th anniversary celebrations. It is believed Iron Maiden will close out the Reading Festival on Sunday 28th August after playing at Leeds  the previous night. Official confirmation should be forthcoming early next week at the launch of both festivals. The Foo Fighters and Pixies are believed to be the other two headliners.

The virtualfestivals website goes on to say that Maiden will likely be playing a set made up exclusively with tracks taken from the bands first four albums (Iron Maiden, Killers, Number of The Beast & Piece Of Mind) in keeping with the theme of the recently released Early Years DVD.

Singer Bruce Dickinson told Metal Hammer magazine: "This will be back to the full on metal spectacular. We've always put everything, physically and mentally, into our stage shows and this will be no exception. People are back and into real live music now and we want to make sure that the Maiden shows are never surpassed and an incredable experience for everyone there!"

In related Maiden news the latest issue of UK magazine is reporting that Dickinson is all set to release a new solo album, entitled "Tyranny Of Souls" on May 23rd. In a brief interview with the singer, Dickinson stated that "With this album, Maiden were completely off my radar scope. I was worried that I couldn't follow 'Chemical Wedding', which was a real statement of identity for me. It needed to be very heavy, which it is, but also to throw a few different elements into the mix."

19th March

Massive Frontiers Records Update

BRAZEN ABBOT

Frontiers Records is please to announce all details for the release of the new Brazen Abbott album “My Resurrection”.

 

The final track listing has been finalized as follows:
My Resurrection (lead vocals by Joe Lynn Turner)
Bad Madman (lead vocals by Goran Edman)
Godforsaken (lead vocals by Tony Harnell)
Dreams (lead vocals by Joe Lynn Turner)
Flyin' Blind (lead vocals by Göran Edman)
Another Day Gone (lead vocals by Tony Harnell)
More Than Money (lead vocals by Joe Lynn Turner)
The Shadows (lead vocals by Erik Martensson)
Beggar's Lane (lead vocals by Göran Edman, featuring Erik Martensson)
Rage Of Angels (lead vocals by Joe Lynn Turner, featuring Erik Martensson)
Lost (lead vocals by Tony Harnell)
Shades Of Grey (lead vocals by Göran Edman)

Release date has been scheduled for June the 6th in Europe on Frontiers Records, with US and Japanese release dates to be announced soon.

ROYAL HUNT

And now for the news you all have been waiting for: A few days before the final step – mixing, which will start on March 21st – the album got a title... “PAPER BLOOD”.

Here’s the track list: Break Your Chains, Not My Kind, Memory Lane, Never Give Up, Seven Days, SK 983, Kiss Of Faith, Paper Blood, Season’s Change, Twice Around The World. Now you all can start guessing for awhile what’s behind those titles...

Band lineup for this album is:
John West - Lead & Backing Vocals
Andre Andersen - Keyboards & Guitars
Marcus Jidell - Lead Guitars & Guitars
Kenneth Olsen – Drums (the original drummer is back in the lineup!)

Guest Musicians:
Allan Sorensen - Drums
Maria McTurk - Backing Vocals
Kenny Lubke - Backing Vocals
Soma Allpas - Cello
Peter Brander - Dobro

Release date is scheduled for Europe on Frontiers Records on June the 6th 2005.

OLIVER HARTMANN

Frontiers Records and Oliver Hartmann are pleased to announce the official showcase party for the “Out in The Cold” release to be held on May 26th 2005 at the Colossaal Club in Aschaffenburg, Germany.

Oliver and his band will also be available for a meet and greet session with the fans and will
showcase the tracks from his amazing debut release.

On a related note, “Out In The Cold” has been chosen by the ROCK IT magazine – leading melodic rock magazine in Germany - writers as # 1 in the soundcheck of the forthcoming issue, beating the competition of many established acts.

SEVENTH KEY

Billy Greer and Mike Slamer have agreed to the production of a SEVENTH KEY LIVE DVD.

The shooting will take place in a Los Angeles club in June and under the direction of Mike Slamer’s daughter Nicole. Famed singer Terry Brock will also appear and the band will showcase songs from the two SEVENTH KEY studio albums, plus some tasty surprise.

The DVD will also include all the videos shoot by the guys including the most recent “Love Train” and “An Ocean Away” plus an in-depth interview with Billy Greer, Mike Slamer and Terry Brock.

Stay tuned for more details.

KELLY KEAGY

Singer and drummer Kelly Keagy of Night Ranger fame is busy working on his second solo album.

He has written already 3 new tracks with Jim Peterik of Pride of Lions and Survivor fame and has plans to write more new songs with him during the month of march.

In April he will also fly to his bandmate Jack Blades ranch to complete the songwriting for the album. Completion of the recording is scheduled for the summertime.

HARDLINE

The band has finally finished the recording sessions of the new album “Just Add Water” leaving singer Johnny Gioeli the final task to add his vocals. No release date has been planned already but Frontiers Records and the band are positive to have the new cd released by the end of 2005.

ALLEN / LANDE

Symphony X singer Russell Allen is also very busy working to complete his vocal tracks for the highly anticipated monster studio project featuring himself and the mighty Jorn Lande from Masterplan.
Russell hopes to complete the recording within the end of march with mix already scheduled at the Roastinghouse Studios during April.
Frontiers Records hopes to release the album right after the summer.

19th March

Nuclear Blast Sign Sirenia

The thriving NUCLEAR BLAST family is proud to announce a new member: SIRENIA!

Having been a staple in the gothic/metal/rock scene for years, the Norwegian band founded in early 2001 by former Tristania mastermind Marten Veland have released two successful albums to date ("At Sixes And Sevens" and "An Elixir For existence") and recently toured Europe with Tiamat, Pain and Theatre of Tragedy.

Morten Veland had this to say about the deal with Nuclear Blast "Sirenia are proud to have teamed up with Nuclear Blast. Together we will keep up the flame, and bring out the best music we could possibly offer for many years to come!"

Currently, the three main members of Sirenia - Morten Veland (guitars, growls), Henriette Bordvik (voices) and Jonathan Perez (drums, percussion) - are working on new material for their debüt on Nuclear Blast, as they write on their website: "The last couple of months have been spent on creating new songs alongside our touring-activity. We have tons of ideas to pick from and will most likely spend the next few months on perfecting the best of this material. All the songs are meant for our next full-lenghth album that most likely will be out in the beginning of next year."

The next step has been taken, so get ready for further pieces of dark and atmospheric art…

19th March

MTM May Release Schedule

 MTM  have just announced details of their May release schedule

Refugee - “Affairs In Babylon” (Released: 09th May)

Refugee was a Canadian rock band that enjoyed great success in the mid 1980's. Originally known as "Michael Fury" the band released its first album while in the process of changing some of the original personnel. The band created an exciting and talented group of musicians that caught the attention of Chrysalis Records in New York. The original Michael Fury album was reworked with some new tunes and the new blood and after deciding on a name change, "Refugee was born.
With "Affairs in Babylon" Refugee began to tour in the U.S. and Canada and shot a first video of "Exiles in the Dark", the first single, was shot in New York City. MTM Music is proud to have “Affairs In Babylon” first time on CD as a part of the successful MTM Classsix collection. The album features 4 unreleased bonus tracks and the booklet offers liner notes of Myles Hunter, Martyn Jones and Howard Helm.

Zeno- “Zenology II” (Released: 23rd May)

Zeno Roth is the younger brother of Uli Jon Roth who played with Scorpions. In 1974 he formed the band Black Angel and went on, in 1984, to form the band Zeno with Ule Ritgen (Fair Warning). They started recording for the first album “Zeno” in 1985, using many recording studios all over the world. Chuck Burgi, Stuart Elliot, Carl Marsh, Don Airey and also Chris Thomspn joined this recording. With the release of their self titled debut, Zeno toured with Black Sabbath, Krokus, Keel and also played a festival with Queen in the UK (Editors Note: this was at Newcastle St James Park in 1986 and of the 38,000 audience in attendance that day I swear I was the only person who knew the band or their material!!). In 1993 the album "Zeno" was released in Japan and sold more than 25.000 copies. In 1995 "Zenology" was released and again reaching the charts. In December 1997 the third album "Listen To The Light“ was completed and released in Japan in January 1998 and reached the charts again. MTM Classix  recently re-released the self titled debut album in completely remixed, remastered form, featuring bonus tracks. "Zenology II" is a new compilation of previously unreleased Zeno songs. All of these tracks were recorded between 1983 and 1989 in studios in or around Hannover, Germany. Both, "Zenology I" and "Zenology II", represent links between the official Zeno releases, they are musical documentaries displaying the full range of Zeno's work, with the next newly recorded Zeno studio album to be expected soon.

Edge of Forever - “Let The Demon Rock ‘N’ Roll” (Released: 17th May)

Edge of Forever are a concentration of 80's Hard Rock, filled with rousing melodies and neoclassical atmospheres. The band features fantastic singer Bob Harris, who worked with Frank Zappa, Steve Vai and is actually part of legendary band Axe. Mastermind Alessandro Del Vecchio, keyboard player, has gained valuable experience besides some bigwigs of the world's rock and metal scene, energetic performer, has worked live and on records featuring Glenn Hughes, Patrick Rondat, Tony Franklin, Bruce Kulick, Aandre Matos, Scott McGill, Time Machine and many more. The high acclaimed debut “Feeding The Fire” is now followed with “Let The Demon Rock ’n Roll” which has been produced by Bobby Barth, extraordinary guitar player and producer of the legendary hard rock legends Aze. Fans who are eagerly waiting for a new Axe album … check out Edge Of Forever!

18th March

Yngwie Malmsteen

Fleet fingered fret flayer Yngwie Malmsteen will be returning to the UK for a set of live shows in May/June. The dates that are so far confirmed are:

30th May - London Hammersmith Apollo
31st May - Wolverhampton Civic Hall
1st June - Nottingham Rock City

Special guests, for the Wolverhampton show, are the Michael Schenker Group and Dragonforce.

Malmsteen has just released his latest album, 'Unleash The Fury' in Japan, however no UK release date or label details for the album have yet been confirmed. Look out for the review on HardRockHouse.com in the near future

18th March

John Wetton/Geoffrey Downes

Frontiers Records is now proud to announce that John Wetton & Geoffrey Downes from Asia are coming back with a brand new project album: “Icon” set to restore the faith in melodic symphonic rock music !

With the help of longtime John Wetton collaborators Steve Christey (Jadis) on drums and John Mitchell (Arena, Kino) on guitars, along with guests Annie Haslam (Ranaissance), Ian McDonald (Foreigner, King Crimson), Hugh McDowell (ELO), Mike Stobbie  - “Icon” is going to be one of the events of the season in rock music.

The track listing of the European version of the album – to be released on May 16th via Frontiers Records – is as follows:
Overtoure: Paradox; Let Me Go; God Walks With Us; I Stand Alone; Meet Me At Midnight; Hey Josephine; Far Away; Please Change Your Mind; Sleep Angel; Spread Your Wings; In The End; I Wish I Could be in Your Bed (exclusive bonus track for Europe).

18th March

Power Quest Studio Update

UK power metal band Power Quest have now completed work on their upcoming album 'Magic Never Dies' which is due for release on June 6th via Majestic Rock.

In an email sent to the Power Quest mailing list the band had the following to say about the recording process:

"Well, the band have now finally evacuated Thin Ice studios with recording, mixing and mastering now complete. All that remains is for keyboards to be collected and that will be that.

Magic Never Die is scheduled for release in Japan via Marquee/Avalon on May 21st and on June 6th in Europe via Majestic Rock.

Me and the guys are extremely happy with the way things have gone over the past two months and it's going to be one hell of a job choosing the songs to play live because we feel that they are all strong enough to warrant an airing. Decisions, decisions! hahaha!

Hopefully we will be able to bring you a preview of the album cover and possibly a track as well over the coming weeks.

The PQ fan club will be launched officially on April 4th. Sorry for the delay with this but the recording of the new album has been kind of distracting recently. I hope you'll forgive us in this regard.

Thanks again to everyone who has mailed us during the recording process offering words of encouragement etc We really appreciate it guys!

Until next time......the Quest must go on!"

18th March

Spike

Full details of Quireboy's frontman Spike's solo UK tour are now available. Touring in support of his solo album 'It's Good To Be Alive' which is released via Demolition Records in April the singer plays the following dates:

07th April - The Tumbledown Dick, Farnborough  
08th April - The Cartoon, Croydon  
09th April - The Green Rooms, Welwyn Garden City 
10th April - Bootleggers, Cleethorpes    
13th April - The Brook, Southampton  
14th April  - Junktion 7, Nottingham
15th April  - Nice & Sleazy's, Glasgow 
16th April - Los Angeles Rock Cafe, Cannock    
18th April - The Archer, Newcastle   (supported by local band Skinflint)
20th April - Hotel California, Liverpool     
21st April - The New Roscoe, Leeds    
22nd April - The Boardwalk, Sheffield
23rd April - The Hanger@The Crosby Hotel, Scunthorpe
24th April - Moses Gate, Bolton  
27th April - Robin2, Bilston, Wolverhampton
29th April - Vivaz, Scarborough  

The new album features fellow Quireboys Paul Guerin and Keith Weir on guitar and keys respectively, with Nigel Mogg on bass duties for a number of tracks. Other musicians on the album include Bad Company guitarist Dave Colwell, Angie Stone and Nick Mailing. Spike was responsible for writing  most of the album himslef, with co-writing credits going to Paul Guerin amongst others.

The track listing for 'Its Good To Be Alive' is as follows:

Have a Drink with Me, I'm in Love with You, Everyday, Thieves, So Far So Good, Wins, Ties and Losses, Won't Ya Stick Around, . Without You, When I'm Away from You, True Friends and 7/11 Roses

18th March

Evolution Rock Night

The next installment of the Evolution Rock Night will take place at the Limelight Club in Crewe on God Friday, 25th March. Doors open at 8.30pm.

18th March

Sonic X

What’s old is new again. This expression is reality for Sonic X, a Toronto-based hard rock band that has just released their self titled debut CD on Z Records with worldwide distribution.

“It’s great to see the classic bands such as Motley Crue, Judas Priest, and even Billy Idol releasing new material and touring,” said Adam Troy lead singer for Sonic X, “It is very timely for what is happening with Sonic X.”

The band formed in the mid-eighties and toured extensively throughout Canada under the name L.A. and built a large coast-to-coast following. This popularity allowed LA to earn “Best Toronto Club Band Award” at the Toronto Music Awards in 1989.

“It seemed that everything was going our way’” said Joseph Cumbo, bassist for the band. “We had development deals with Capitol Records, MCA/Universal and BMG also expressed interest in signing us at the time.” L.A. also started getting airplay on local radio stations, which is a rarity for a band that is not officially signed to a record label.

“At the time we were being compared to bands such as Guns & Roses, Whitesnake and Skid Row. We fit in well with that genre of music. Everyone around us was excited and then Nirvana happened,” said Cumbo. “The shift in music was drastic.

The focus became signing ‘Grunge’ bands instead of hard rock bands.” The change in music landscape provided a considerable challenge for the band.

The band had a decision to make, would they follow the Grunge movement and change their musical style or stay true to their hard rock roots. With the help of Gil Moore from the classic Canadian rock band Triumph, the band decided to finish the recording of their debut album themselves.

The band then began to knock on doors once again, basically starting from scratch, shopping their material but with limited success.

The break came when someone suggested that the band send the album to the U.K. based label, Z Records. “We figured we had nothing to lose by sending the album over to Europe. Based on our genre of music and what was happening with “The Darkness” and other bands like them, we felt we had a good chance to be picked up,” said Troy.

Their persistence and self-belief paid off. Z Records signed them to a two-album deal with an option for a third. Feeling that they had a new lease on their dreams, the band decided that a name change was in order. Having waited ten years for success the band incorporated the Roman Numeral Ten (X) into the name and changed it to Sonic X. “It is a hidden reference which signifies the over ten years of persistence in getting this album released to the public,” says Cumbo, “it has been an exciting ride and worth the wait.”

You can check out a review of the debut Sonic X album via this link

16th March

Motorhead

Dates so far confirmed are

30th Oct -  Bristol Colston Hall
31st Oct -  Ipswich Regent Theatre
01st Nov -  Nottingham Rock City
03rd Nov - Cardiff University
04th Nov - Sheffield City Hall
05th Nov - Manchester Carling Apollo
07th Nov - Glasgow Carling Academy
10th Nov - Birmingham Carling Academy
11th Nov - Newcastle City Hall
12th Nov - Bradford St. George's Hall
14th Nov - Leicester DeMontfort Hall
15th Nov - Oxford New Theatre
16th Nov - Norwich UEA
18th Nov - Folkestone Leas Cliff Hall
19th Nov - Brixton Carling Academy
20th Nov - Cambridge Corn Exchange
22nd Nov - Plymouth Pavilions
23rd Nov - Southampton Guildhall

16th March

Europe

Following on from the story first published a few days ago, re-united Swedish rockers Europe have confirmed five UK live dates during May. The dates so far announced are:

13th May - Glasgow Garage
15th May - Wolverhampton Civic Hall
16th May - Norwich UEA
17th May - Folkestone Leas Cliffe Hall
19th May - London Astoria

16th March

Yet Another Download Update

Reformed legends Anthrax and MC5 will play their only UK festival dates of 2005 at this year’s Download – and there are loads more bands just added.

The recently revived Anthrax – featuring the original line-up of Joey Belladonna, Scott Ian, Frankie Bello, Charlie Benante and Dan Spitz – join Black Sabbath on Saturday’s Ozzfest stage. Bowling For Soup and Alter Bridge will play lower down the bill.

Detroit rock heroes MC5 (now called DKT/MC5) play their first ever Download on Sunday’s Snickers Stage, along with Italian rockers Lacuna Coil and As I Lay Dying.

Over on the Main Stage, Nightwish and Killswitch Engage have been announced to warm up for System Of A Down, Slayer and Slipkot – all previously confirmed for the Sunday.

Meshuggah, Unearth, Every Time I Die, and Caliban have also just been added to the bill.

16th March

Faster Pussycat

Today seems to be the day for tour dates as 80's Glam Rockers Faster Pussycat have also lined up a UK tour during April/May. Dates confirmed are as follows:

29th April - Bradford Rios
30th April- Nottingham Rock City
1st May - Dudley JB's
2nd May - London Camden Underworld
3rd May - Nuneaton Queens Hall

10th March

Roadrunner Roadrage Tour

10th March

More Acts Confirmed For Download

Motorhead and Mastodon will play the Snickers Stage at this year's Download festival, with four other top bands set to make their mark at Donington.

In Flames and Lamb Of God will all play their first ever Download festival, also on the Snickers Stage, whilst Chimaira and Bullet For My Valentine make a welcome return.

In Flames and Lamb Of God will be storming the Saturday, with the rest set to help bring the festival to a colossal close on the Sunday.

10th March

May Tour Dates

www.seetickets.com are currently offering tickets for an Anthrax show at Glasgow Barrowlands on May 5th. Allegedly this show will feature the 'classic' Among The Living line up of the band, comprising of Scott Ian, Charlie Benante, Joey Belladona, Dan Spitz & Frank Bello.

In the meantime Europe, who played a one off UK date ate Hammersmith Apollo in November will return for some more shows which are likely to include both London Astoria on May 19th and Wolverhampton Civic on May 15th.

10th March

Stereophonics

The Stereophonics, who release their new album, entitled Language, Sex, Violence, Other' through V2 Records on March 14th have confirmed details of a major UK tour in September. The dates so far confirmed for the trek are:

Sept 9th - Birmingham NIA
Sept 12th - Sheffield Hallam FM Arena
Sept 13th - Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
Sept 14th - Nottingham Arena
Sept 16th - Manchester Evening News Arena
Sept 19th - London Hammersmith Apollo
Sept 20th - London Hammersmith Apollo
Sept 21st - London Hammersmith Apollo
Sept 24th - Cardiff International Arena
Sept 25th - Cardiff International Arena
Sept 26th - Cardiff International Arena

The album itself will contain the following track listing:

Superman, Doorman, Brother, Devil, Dakota, Rewind, Pedalpusher, Girl, Lolita, Deadhead and Feel

10th March

Frontiers Records Update

As reported on March 5th Harem Scarem are set to release their new album 'Overload' through Frontiers on May 16th. The official press release from Frontiers is now shown below.

"No other band in the melodic rock genre has delivered such a varied discography throughout their career as Harem Scarem.

This Canadian quartet makes no exception to the rule by delivering the band’s tenth studio album entitled “Overload”. In band’s singer Harry Hess words: “The new album includes moments of classic Harem Scarem", but also some "...crazy guitar stuff", adding that in parts it's "really heavy".

New elements have been added to the recording: “Baritone guitars were used in a lot of the songs”, explains Hess. “This gave a different flavor to not only the songwriting but also to the sound of the guitars. I really sang a lot of these songs at the top of my range!”.

The final result is Harem Scarem’s most intense, moody and passionate album to date. A top production and a straightforward melodic hard rock sound make “Overload” an unmissable opportunity for all the fans to enjoy one of the year’s top quality releases.

“Overload” final track listing includes the following eleven songs:
Dagger; Afterglow; Rise & Fall; Don't Come Easy; Can't Live With You; Forgive & Forget; All You're Getting; Leading Me On; Understand You; Same Mistakes; Wishing (exclusive bonus track for Europe).

The album will be released in Europe on Frontiers Records on May the 16th 2005"

Circus Maximus

Frontiers Records is proud to announce that the Norwegian melodic/progressive metal band Circus Maximus has signed a European deal for the release of the debut album entitled "The 1st Chapter".

According to vocalist Michael Eriksen: "This seem to be a match made in heaven, as Frontiers Records has a long history of working with only the best melodic metal / hard rock bands in the world and Circus Maximus are definitely one of those".

The unique mixture of progressive technical metal and melodic hard rock is the key to the music of the 5 Norwegian guys which will be a massive priority for all the fans of Symphony X, Dream Theater and TNT.

The European release through Frontiers Records will be May 16th 2005 and will feature a bonus track, exclusive to their territory.

The final track listing includes:
Sin; Alive; Glory Of The Empire; Biosfear; Silence From Angels Above; Why Am I Here ?; The Prophecy; The 1st Chapter; Haunted Dreams (exclusive bonus track for Europe)

The album features brilliant cover artwork by Mattias Norén / ProgArt Media (known for a.o. Evergrey, Kotipelto, Derek Sherinian) while the album was mixed by the great Tommy Hansen (Jorn, Helloween etc.).

In other relevant news, Circus Maximus has been announced as one of the 10 bands set to perform at this years prestigious ProgPower Festival in Atlanta, GA, USA in September 2005 alongside such great bands as Stratovarius, Therion and Manticora.

For more information on Circus Maximus, check out www.circusmaximussite.com

5th March

Magnum

This is a classic Magnum DVD release, and is enhanced by the additional exclusive Special Features and 5.1 Dolby Digital and 5.1 DTS sound options 

“ANOTHER CHAPTER, ANOTHER VERSE” – THE DOCUMENTARY

This documentary featuring original band member interviews with Bob Catley, Tony Clarkin, Mark Stanway and Bass player Al Barrow filmed in 2005, is a fascinating insight into the unforgettable music and career of Magnum.  Featuring exclusive never seen before footage of the making of the “Brand New Morning” album – a collectors dream. 

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE

Fully Animated Menu / Choice of 5.1 Dolby Digital, 5.1 DTS & Dolby Stereo Sound Options & “Another Chapter, Another Verse” Documentary

For Further Information Please Contact:

Ben Williams

Classic Pictures, Shepperton Film Studios, Studios Road, Shepperton, Middlesex, TW17 0QD, UK

T: 0044 (0) 1932 592016

F: 0044 (0) 1932 592046

Email: ben.williams@classicpictures.co.uk

Web: www.classicpictures.co.uk & www.magnumonline.co.uk

5th March

Napalm Death

Napalm Death, who release a new album entitled 'The Code is Red, Long Live The Code' through century Media records on April 25th, will be undertaking a full European tour throughout May, June and July.  The tour takes in the following UK dates:

May 31st - Exeter Phoenix
June 1st - Bristol Bierkeller
June 2nd - Swindon Furnace
June 3rd - Edinburgh Studio 24
June 4th - Milton Keynes Pitz
June 5th - Brighton Concorde 2

The trek is likely to conclude with a London date on July 17th, although a venue has yet to be confirmed.

5th March

Harem Scarem

Dagger, Afterglow, Rise & Fall, Don't Come Easy, Can't Live With You, Forgive & Forget, All You're Getting, Leading Me On, Understand You and Same Mistakes. The Japanese edition of the CD will feature an additional bonus track in the shape of a cover of AC/DC's  You Shook Me All Night Long

In further Harem Scarem news, former drummer Darren Smith will release a new album entitled 'Keeping The Dream Alive', which will be credited to the Darren Smith Band, through MTM records on March 7th.

Speaking about the album via the MTM website, Smith has this to say about the release:

"“Harry (Hess- Harem Scarem vocalist) approached me about doing a record. I thought why not. It’s been awhile since Harry and I recorded together aside from the Scarem records. So I had to write a record and when the word got out I was doing so. I started to receive songs from all kinds of song writers. Well I listen to quite a few of them and thought some of them were exceptional, so I did a few, because a good song ...is a good song and it should be heard. The guys in the band (Mike Hall -Killer Dwarfs/Stan Mizchek-Kim Mitchel, Killer Dwarfs--Pat Carrano-Live Sex Show) are all my friends and we play together on a regular basis so it only seemed right to include them on the record. Peter Lesperance well what can I say, is there anybody better......not. He helped me with the rhythm guitar tracks and some backups with Harry. He has a great little studio in his house (we all do). I just love to work with Harry and Pete it just comes so easy. So for me they are the only team to work with.

Not to drag this through the dirt but I was up a my cottage when the whole world went nuts (911) I went there with my studio in my van to spend a week by myself writing, not for this project mind you. Just to get away and create. I had this whole tune tracked except for vocals (Keep The Spirit Alive). I had a satellite TV system up there but I only watched porno's and movies I never turned on CNN. Well I shut my cell off the whole time I was away. 2 days after the planes hit the twin towers, I decided to call my wife to say hi.............I got an earful and I packed up my gear so fast and drove home mach one . Thinking the world was gonna end and I had to see my wife and kids, it was a very freaky time as you all would remember. Once the world had settled into our new way of living (In fear). It gave a new sort of meaning to live, for me. Life seemed even more precious.
It All Come Back......well this song is basically about prenuptial agreements, pretty simple logical contract. hehehe
Tragedy is just my look at why shit always seems to happen to me, I’m a shit magnet just ask Harry or Pete. If there's trouble out there ill find it and it will stick to me like Velcro, although since 2005 I’ve turned a new leaf when I smell shit happening I turn and run the other way
Love Hurts not my song. wish to hell it was. My take on it, if I wrote it. Not really a ballad guy. I think this rocks fuckin hard..............enjoy
Black Star- When I met my wife I told her I would take care of her and my girls the best that I can . Ive always made a living playing music and a few years back I sort of hit a rut in the road and contemplated changing careers as I wasn't making enough money rockin the masses every weekend. I told her I was gonna get my Harley mechanics license and pack up the gear for good. She talked me out of it and said just hang in there. a little while longer. She told me I was her Black Star, because She always thought of me a star but I was dying inside so a felt like I was fading away......really quite depressing. hmmm lets change topics. All is good now I’m shining brighter then ever. haha
I would love to go on and on about the tunes on this record but your all intelligent people (cause if you weren't you wouldn't be able to read this interview) Whatever you think your hearing.......well you decide what the songs about. That's whets important."

5th March

Demolition Ball

Blabbermouth.net are reporting that Twisted Sister, Sebastian Bach, Y&T, Electric Eel Shock and Antiproduct have all been confirmed to play the Demolition Ball 2005, which is set to take place on June 26 at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle-Upon -Tyne.

5th March

Blake

Helsinki-based heavy blues rockers Blake have signed a new record deal with Finnish Wolfgang Records. The recordings for their third album are already going full steam at Seawolf Studios, Helsinki. Spring 2005 will see Blake busy in studio with the first single release (tentatively “Come Dawn”) coming out in May. The new album is produced by Blake frontman Aaro Seppovaara together with Petri Majuri and Hannu Leiden.

The new album’s release is scheduled for Fall 2005 through Wolfgang’s sub-label Major Leidén, home for the legendary Hanoi Rocks, Wigwam and The Grammers.

Blake’s self-financed debut “Fireroot” was released in 2003 while the follow-up with the renewed line-up, “Starbringer”, came out last Spring through Spinefarm’s sub-label Ranch Records.

5th March

Soul Sirkus

Frontiers Records is pleased to announce that the official European release of the SOUL SIRKUS debut album will feature the following track listing:
World Play; Highest Ground; New Position; Another World; Soul Goes On; Alive*; Periled Divide; Peephole; Abailar To' Mundo*; Friends To Lovers; Praise; My Sanctuary; Coming Home; My Love, My Friend*; Close The Door; James Brown*.
* Bonus Tracks added to the original US version available only through the band’s website.

Also, as a special bonus, the entire first pressing of the release will be specially packaged in ecolbook edition and will feature a bonus dvd which will include the videos shot for the songs NEW POSITION and ANOTHER WORLD plus an interview with the band members and a behind the scenes exclusive footage.

Release date of the European version of the album is settled for April 25 2005.

2nd March

Firefest Press Release

FIREFEST is a new beginning for melodic hard rock in the UK. Previously most, if not all, festivals in recent memory were primarily label showcases, but with the advent of FIREFEST the boundaries will be extended, not only offering a platform for new talent but also endeavoring to attract the biggest names in the field. The inaugural FIREFEST will take place on May 7th 2005 at the Town and Country Club (formerly Penningtons), Manningham Lane, Bradford, Yorkshire, and offers a line up that is amongst the strongest seen in the UK in many years.

Friday May 6th

The main day's entertainment is preceded by a pre show event in Town and Country 2 (adjacent to the main venue) on Friday night May 6th featuring performances from critically acclaimed Swedish melodic hard rock favorites, House of Shakira, who will be treating long standing fans to what can only be described as something very special. With the imminent reissue of their debut album 'LINT', House of Shakira will be performing the album in its entirety, and for the first time in England will be joined on stage by original singer and long time collaborator Mikael Eriksson, who will perform with the band alongside current singer Anders Eklund.

Also appearing are Brighton based Pride. Following their hugely successful opening stint with Vaughn and Firehouse, Pride have built up a reputation as one of the finest melodic hard rock acts in England with two excellent albums ('Far from the Edge' and 'Signs of Purity') to their credit. Both albums have sold extremely well and have escalated Pride from also rans to genuine contenders. The band are currently writing and recording material for their third record and intend to showcase some of the material for the first time on Friday night.
Making a welcome return to the melodic rock scene are yet another English band, Dante Fox. Following a self imposed break from writing and recording, the band led by guitarist Tim Manford and vocalist Sue Willetts are keen to showcase material from their forthcoming third album, which according to the band is very much in the mould of earlier album 'Under Suspicion' and 'The Fire Within', but with more mature feel.

It is hoped that most of the bands appearing throughout the weekend will make it down at some stage for a beer and just to say hello, making it a truly informal event that will prove to be a major winner with everybody. Who knows, maybe some of them will even be up for a jam session. Just try keeping Jeff Scott Soto off the stage!! Doors open at 7.30pm on Friday night with Pride taking the stage at 8pm. Each band will perform for approximately 45 minutes and venue closing time, we are advised, is very late. There will also be some spot prizes on offer: CDs, t-shirts, and various other bits and pieces, so if you are intending to travel then it's the perfect way to start your weekend. Please note due to capacity restrictions in Town and Country 2, there are only a limited number of tickets available and early booking is essential. Tickets for this pre-show even can only be bought directly from the promoters, at a cost of £3. Payment either via Paypal to fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com or by cheque, payable to 'Bruce Mee', from the Fireworks Magazine address listed below.

Saturday May 7th

FIREFEST kicks into overdrive on Saturday, with nine bands taking the stage between 12.30pm and 1.30am. Doors open at 12 noon and PRIDE will be handed the task of opening the main day's entertainment and in the process ensuring a loud awakening for anybody who may have overdone things the previous night. Again, just to keep it fresh, PRIDE intend to showcase even more tracks from their forthcoming, as yet untitled third album, as well as long time favorites from their impressive back catalog.
HOUSE OF SHAKIRA, still hot on the promotional trail with their current, highly impressive opus 'First Class', will get the opportunity to mix it up with a selection of material from this, LINT, ON THE VERGE and HOS 3. Definitely a performance not to be missed.
MILLION, currently creating a huge stir in both Europe and Japan with their new album KINGSIZE, will also dig into the back catalog offering a selection of tracks from the aforementioned as well as 2002's DETANATOR. Million are one of the few bands creating a genuine buzz and will use the opportunity to convince those that may yet be unsure of their undoubted pedigree.

Germany's CASANOVA have consistantly recorded quality output. From the early days of the major label releases such as CASANOVA, ONE NIGHT STAND and SOME LIKE IT DIFFERENT, to the latter day Asian market only releases of HEROES and SWAY, Casanova have continually proved themselves to be a major player in the world of melodic hard rock. Their current release ALL BEAUTY MUST DIE was released at the tail end of 2004 and has helped to reestablish the band in Europe after a break of almost five years. This will be the first opportunity to see the original line up of the band in action in the UK and promises to be very special.
LEGS DIAMOND are a legend, period, and have shared the stage with more acts than they would care to remember during their now thirty year career: KISS, Styx, Reo Speedwagon, Angel, Starz, Ted Nugent,Y&T, Rush and Sammy Hagar to name a few. Whilst they were initially far more successful Stateside than in Europe, it helped that they were championed by Kerrang! back in the day, with the DIAMOND IS A HARD ROCK album drawing slavering approval from Howard Johnson in July 1982 and the OUT ON BAIL album drawing huge support critically and sales wise on the back of the K seal of approval. LEGS DIAMOND last appeared in the UK back in 1991 in support of their TOWN BAD GIRL album and FIREFEST is extremely proud to have them as part of their thirty year anniversary celebrations.

PINK CREAM 69 have evolved into one of the most potent live acts on the scene today. Their firey brand of powerful, no nonsense hard rock has elevated them to a major attraction on mainland Europe as well as the Far East, where albums such as ELECTRIFIED, SONIC DYNAMITE, ENDANGERED and THUNDERDOME have sold consistently large quantities and helped establish them in the live forum. PC69 were last seen in the UK back in the very early 90's with then vocalist Andi Deris, who was subsequently replaced by David Readman in 1995. This will be PC69's first UK appearance with English born David at the mic stand. It's long overdue and they will without doubt be a highlight of the weekend.

FIREHOUSE will be making their second trip to the UK in just over a year. Their hugely successful tour with VAUGHN and PRIDE cemented the fact that they are one of the most highly respected outfits still treading the boards today. Firehouse arrived on the scene back in 1990 with a double platinum self titled release in the USA which featured the top ten hit single 'Love of a Lifetime. HOLD YOUR FIRE, released in 1992 spawned another massive single for the band with 'When I Look into Your Eyes' that helped send that album to almost platinum status. FIREHOUSE 3, GOOD ACOUSTICS, CATEGORY 5, O2 and current album PRIME TIME have helped the band sell almost seven million albums worldwide and their inclusion for FIREFEST is a major coup for the promoters. Expect to hear all the hits and some new ones in the making.
TNT are returning to the UK for the first time since 1987. That appearance was a one off show in the Marquee Club and the band are still not quite sure why they haven't been back. For most people , their relationship with the band began when '10,000 Lovers' from the TELL NO TALES album was a staple on Power Hour back in the day, but subsequent albums such as INTUITION and REALIZED FANTISIES sent TNT to the very pinnacle of success. Following a period of relative inactivity in the nineties, only briefly punctuated by 1995's FIREFLY and latterly TRANSISTOR, TNT have returned as a major force with the release of 2004's MY RELIGION. With Tony Harnell's soaring vocal and Ronni Le Tekro's searing guitar their appearance is long overdue and eagerly anticipated by their legion of loyal followers in the UK.

If there was ever a case of a true 'supergroup' then SOUL SIRKUS surely fit the bill. Led by the superb guitar slinging of JOURNEY main man NEAL SCHON, equally aided and abetted by WHITESNAKE and THIN LIZZY bassist MARCO MENDOZA, and buoyed by the addition of possibly one of the finest drummers playing today, VIRGIL DONATI (known as the 'Thunder from Down Under'), SOUL SIRKUS have recently released the most highly anticipated album in years. Blending a fusion of JOURNEYesque melodies witha harder, more European edge associated with singer JEFF SCOTT SOTO'S recent solo output, the band have achieved so much in a very short time span. The album has shipped very large quantities through Warner Brothers in the USA and will shortly be released in EUROPE by Frontiers Records. For those who are already familiar with the album, its undeniable class is a standout factor. For those as yet unfamiliar it will blow you away. This is the first time since 1991, when HARDLINE opened for EXTREME, that NEAL SCHON will grace a UK stage. JEFF SCOTT SOTO has promised a show that will leave nobody in any doubt of the quality of the band live - a challenge that will be proven at FIREFEST on SATURDAY MAY 7th.

Firefest Ticketing Details.

Ticket prices are as follows: Advance Tickets: Sterling £40 (Pounds Sterling) / Day of Show: £45 (Pounds Sterling).

Tickets for the Firefest main day - (Saturday May 7), will be available from the following outlets:
Loud 1, 144 Congleton Road, Biddulph, Stoke on Trent, Staffs ST8 6QN
Tel +44 (0)1782 522370 / Fax +44 (0)1782 765013 / E-mail: gez@loud1.net.
Z Roxx, PO Box 347, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1FB
Tel +44 (0)1342 300181 / Fax +44 (0)1342 321442 E-mail: sales@z-roxx.com.
RPM Mail Order, 2A Spark Street, Longwood, Huddersfield, HD3 4XB
Tel +44 (0) 1484 643392 / E-Mail mark.rpm@btinternet.com.
Destiny Records, PO Box 139, Fareham, PO15 7JE
Tel +44(0) 1489 603549 / Fax +44 (0) 1489 603550 / E-mail: destiny.records@virgin.net.

Tickets are also available directly from the promoters at the Fireworks Office. Cheques and postal orders:
Make payable to: 'Bruce Mee' and sent to: Bruce Mee, Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD, England.
E-mail: Fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com
Please note - Paypal is also accepted by using the above Email address.

Please allow 28 for delivery of tickets.

All those ordering tickets direct from Fireworks will be entered into a draw to win grand prize of an electric guitar, signed by Soul Sirkus and presented at the end of their set.

2nd March

Rock And Blues Festival

The 2005 Rock & Blues Festival will take place at the Coney Grey Showground, Pentrich, Derbyshire between July 28th & 31st inclusive. Amongst the acts currently scheduled to appear at the event are Blackfoot, Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush and UFO
Also confirmed to appear are Waysted, Skinny Molly, Tygers Of Pan Tang and Antiproduct. More names, including a major headliner, will be announced soon.

2nd March

Download Update

Megadeth and Dinosaur Jr to make history at Download!

Megadeth are set to storm this year’s Download festival - but have stunned fans by revealing it will be their last UK gig ever. Whereas Dinosaur Jr will make their first appearance here in almost ten years – and it will be their only UK festival of the summer! Also just added to the Friday bill are Biffy Clyro, The Used, My Chemical Romance and JJ72.
 

Veteran rockers Megadeth have revealed they have no plans to tour Europe after completing their forthcoming string of European festival dates, however, they say they can’t wait to perform their UK swansong at Download. Original front man Dave Mustaine will be joined by Glen Drover (guitar), James MacDonough (bass) and Nick Menza (drums).

It’s a historical reunion for Dinosaur Jr too, as the band’s founding partners J Mascis and Lou Barlow take to the stage together for the first time in almost 15 years!

All the bands will play on the Friday at Download, with more artists to be announced in the coming weeks

1st March

Kamelot

Kamelot will release new album entitled 'The Black Halo', through SPV Records on March 14th. Produced by Sascha Paeth and Miro and recorded at  Gate Studio in Germany between June and October 2004, the album features the following track listing:

March of Mephisto, When the Lights Are Down, The Haunting (Somewhere in Time), Soul Society, Interlude I - Dei Gratia, Abandoned, This Pain, Moonlight, Interlude II - Un Assassinio, Molto Silenzioso, The Black Halo, Nothing Ever Dies, Memento Mori, Interlude III - Midnight/Twelve Tolls for a New Day and Serenade
 

Kamelot's line up for this album features vocalist Roy Khan, Thomas Youngblood on guitars, bassist Glenn Barry and drummer Casey Grillo.

1st March

A

A" will be releasing their first single (in far too long) on April 18 2005, it's called RUSH SONG and it was recorded way back last year with Terry Date (producer of The Deftones, Soundgarden, currently working with Funeral For A Friend). It will come with new songs a plenty which the band are currently recording in London; a video which they will be shooting soon.. all sorts.

The band will also undertake a full UK tour during May, the confirmed dates are as follows:

May 4th - Northampton Soundhaus
May 5th - Nottingham Rock City
May 6th - York Fibbers
May 7th - Leeds Cockpit
May 9th - Wrexham Central Station
May 10th - Manchester Academy
May 11th - Newcastle University
May 12th - Edinburgh Venue
May 14th - Aberdeen Moshulu
May 15th - Glasgow King Tuts Wah Wah Hut
May 16th - Birmingham Academy
May 18th - Leicester Charlotte
May 19th - Sheffield Leadmill
May 20th - Oxford Zodiac
May 22nd - Brighton Concorde
May 23rd - Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
May 26th - Reading Fez Club
May 27th - Bristol Fleece

1st March

Amen

Amen return to the UK for a comprehensive tour during May & June. The band have released the following statement to describe the dates

"So its time for the worlds most hated band to return to the UK. We'd like to take this opportunity to introduce the new line-up and talk about our intentions for the dates we have set up, as well as your mother....

Due to popular demand, this will be The Total Anti-Festival Enviornment. We turned down the option of playing larger venues and will start it off proper, at a public toilet.

We have all been working very hard to revive some songs that havent been played in a while, or have never been played live at all. Here is a list of the songs we are working on at the moment.

B-sides, unreleased shit,new songs and Pisstory tracks (BUY PISSTORY HERE NOW!) its all there.. if you don't see something on the list that you wanna hear, let us know. Also, keep checking back here, because we're gonna figure out a way for people to pick the songs for the set list for each city we play in. The set will be different every night.

We are planning