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REVOCATION: Brand New Song Streaming

2012-01-27T20:02:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

North American Tour Kicks Off Tomorrow In Charlotte, NC

As REVOCATION prepare to kick off their North American tour with Children of Bodom, Eluveitie and Threat Signal, they are unveiling a special treat for their fans. Starting today Ultimate-Guitar is hosting an exclusive stream of the bands own metallic rendition of Faith No More's classic track "Surprise! You're Dead". The song, previously available only on the Chaos of Forms deluxe digital edition on iTunes can now be heard HERE.

Front man Dave Davidson spoke about the band's new song and upcoming tour:

"What's up shredders! We're stoked to premier our rendition of the classic Faith No More song "Surprise! You're Dead!" through Ultimate-Guitar.com. We had a blast recording this cover and we're honored that we could pay homage to such an amazing band, we hope you guys dig it! Also, we'll be hitting the road with Children of Bodom, Eluveitie and Threat Signal very soon so come out to the shows and rage with us!"

REVOCATION will be featured on the official Relapse Records Scion A/V Media Label Showcase in Hollywood, CA at The Roxy on February 11th alongside fellow Relapse artists: Exhumed, Black Tusk, Tombs and Royal Thunder. More info the Relapse Records Scion A/V Showcase can be found HERE.

REVOCATION has recently released their video for the track "No Funeral" from their brand new album Chaos of Forms. The clip was lensed with acclaimed director David Brodsky of MyGoodEye NYC (Municipal Waste, The Black Dahlia Murder, All That Remains, Devin Townsend Project) and can be viewed HERE.

REVOCATION on Tour With Children of Bodom, Eluveitie and Threat Signal
1/28 Charlotte, NC @ Tremont Music Hall
1/29 Reading, PA @ Reverb
1/30 Rochester, NY @ Water Street Music Hall
1/31 Detroit, MI @ Harpo's
2/1 Grand Rapids, MI @ Intersection
2/2 Chiacgo, IL @ The Bottom Lounge
2/3 Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
2/4 Sauget, IL @ Pop's
2/6 Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theatre
2/7 Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
2/9 Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues
2/11 Hollywood, CA @ Relapse Scion Showcase @ The Roxy
2/13 Santa Ana, CA @ Yost Theatre
2/14 San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
2/15 Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
2/17 Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theatre
2/18 El Paso, TX @ Tricky Falls
2/19 Lubbock, TX @ The Pavilion
2/21 Austin, TX @ Emo's East
2/22 Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live
2/24 Louisville, KY @ Expo Five
2/25 Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's
2/26 Toronto, ON @ Sound Academy
2/27 Montreal, QC @ Metropolis
2/29 Quebec City, QC @ Imperial
3/1 Hartford, CT @ Webster Theatre
3/2 Huntington, NY @ The Paramount Theater
3/3 Sayerville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
3/4 Baltimore, MD @ Ram's Head Live

Interview With BLAAKYUM's Bassem Deaibess

2012-01-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

Kareem Chehayeb recently conducted an interview with Bassem Deaibess, frontman of Lebanon's longest running metal band BLAAKYUM, where they cover a number of topics.
Among the subjects discussed in the interview; Bassem provides insight about BLAAKYUM's latest studio album "Lord of The Night;" that was released earlier this month (January 13th) to great reception from fans and media outlets. He also delves into the current local Lebanese scene and how it compares to the 90s.

Here's how it went:

Hey, Bassem! How’s everything going?

Lord of the Night was released on January 13th, 2012, after 15 years! Tell us about the release party and the early impressions of the album.

It was great! I did not expect us to sell over half the first print in one night, especially that we are the first Metal band to release its album in a private party rather than a concert. We already had our album reviewed by Jorzine and got an 8.5 for it, response from fans was overwhelming with many asking us to release tabs for our music, and people expressing how much the wait was worth it. It really eased the fact that it took too long; people were promised the album by end of 2008 so the anticipation was high, and expectations higher and the disappointments almost non-existing.

Knowing that starting a band and maintaining it in the Middle East isn’t something easy to do. What were the major setbacks that held you back from releasing Lord of the Night for over a decade?

Well “Lord of the Night” itself as a song was created in 2006 with the band Communion. Back in the 90s Blaakyum album was called “The Gate” it had 10 tracks ready! But during the 90s we had three major problems:

1. The endless line up change as the members rarely took Metal too seriously as it was a hopeless case, with no support neither nationally nor internationally.
2. The lack of proper studios, producers, facilities (there were no place to practice we had to build our own rehearsal room) and no support whatsoever!
3. The government medieval-like attack on Metal that lead to arrests, and us being beaten up, treated like criminals, and humiliated.

When I reformed Blaakyum in 2007 we had a driving force, especially after playing London. But as it happened before we had a major line up change due to the drummer (George Najjarian) singing a contract with the venue Music Hall and Elefteriadis records, and due to the guitarist having a totally different understanding to what Metal and Music is to us. That delayed the process till mid 2009 when we were ready to record. But by that time our production house became so busy with mainstream Arabic and pop music, so we struggeled till 2011 when the drummer and bassist opened their own studio called Phoenikia Studios, and joined forces with The Alchemist Studios... from there we started from scratch, dropped the VST recording and went live recording (as in live drums and mic-ed amps)... and we did it!

Since Blaakyum’s inception, we’ve seen many lineup changes. How did you meet the musicians currently in Blaakyum, including Elias Njeim, better known as Weeping Willow’s lead guitarist?

Actually Elias is better known for him being a solo player, in the 90s he founded Armageddon, which is a Technical Metal band, as well as he recorded with the first Lebanese Band to ever release a full length album, the band was called Sheppard of Sheol... in 1999 I met Elias for potentially joining Blaakyum but it did not work out back then. In 2008 I re-approached him, this time it worked out, especially that Elias is usually a sessionists player, and that was the case with Weeping Willow, he is currently a permanent sessionists (just to keep his solo carrier image) in Blaakyum.

Starting Blaakyum back in 1995, you must definitely have a clear vision of what the Lebanese rock and metal scene was like back in the early 90s in contrast to right now in 2012. Can you tell us a little about what things were like and the major ups and downs in Lebanon’s metal scene since then?

This can take forever. So I will just get past the very major points. Some people are clamming that the scene was better before. That is not true. Some are saying it is better now, that is not true either, there are things in the past that were beautiful, and other ugly, same as today. The scene is considerably bigger now, and this is why it seems for some that the scene was more united back in the 90s... NOT TRUE, Back in the 90s our biggest drawback was the enmity of certain bands and their fans, and as well the hostilities between the Metal scene and the “Core” (Back then the Hardcore/NuMetal scene) so things haven’t changed much from this perspective.

The major problem of today’s young Metalheads is that they have everything handed to them on a plate of silver, they did not face what we did in the 90s and so do not sometimes appreciate what they have and instead of being a positive force they... again I say SOMETIMES, act immature and fuck up the scene. For example, in the 90s we did not have internet access, and if we did it was limited. Blaakyum was the first band to use internet to spread the single “Am I Black” and yet it was only available to Lebanese after 1999... before that few used and had the capacity to use internet. So we had to look for music and dig it from the ground, literally!! We had no rehearsal rooms like today where you can simply rent a rehearsal room for the band, that was barely available, the first rehearsal rooms were available in 1997 and only in Mansourieh (Mount Lebanon) and were expensive and had no backline!!! Buying your instrument in the 90s was hell... promoting a concert with 0 radio support, 0 TV support, 0 Magazine support was hell, and as I said the internet was not a social network place... all this made our lives harder, but we were so passionate about what we do, I think some of that passion is lost today. Many unworthy horrible, untalented bands are playing in gigs over and over, this wasn’t the case back then, because back then putting up a show or a metalfest was made by blood and sweat that we could not afford an armature band, Actually Blaakyum in 1996 was not much appreciated because it was still an armature band, and so it was a risk, we had to work our asses hard to prove that we were worthy to be back on stage, we were lucky enough not to be cast out of the scene, but going on stage before you were a kick ass band could have meant the end of your band back then.. Today bands keep on getting second chances no matter how they suck, till they eventually get better or cease to be, that lead the level of musician-ship to drop a bit in the scene...
On the other hand we have today, internet and three major webzines in Lebanon, other than the big Middle Eastern webzines like Jorzine, Metality and others... As a result the young are much more informed and learned about music, and we have major instrument shops, Modern Music Schools (non existing before 2002) recording process has become ultimately cheap and available even at home... and the scene is very much active... We saw a boom in the scene when Cherry’s Pub was alive from starting 2006, which was the only Metal venue in Lebanon, sadly from 2009 we have seen two major disasters, the closing of Cherry’s which I ran personally and I can tell you it was due to lack of support, and much ingratitude from the new generation, though on the other hand a lot of metal fans showed endless support but they were few in numbers if compared to the ungrateful bunch. And in 2011 the major Hall that saw endless Metal and Rock fests, Tantra (Hektik) Kaslik was raised down to the ground and is now a parking lot! Today our major problem is the unavailability of venues, a Rock venue practically do not existing.

If this Rock and Metal scene unite, it can create a good market for music business and thus can make someone interested in investing in a venue. The only reasons venues existed before were either because they were not exclusive to Metal, or because someone was willing to lose so much money to keep the venue!

That said, it is not as bad as it sounds, as in summer we have plenty of festivals and places to play, we have finally started to see international bands of good calibre, and big festivals like Beirut Rock Festival are taking place.

In songs like “The Land”, it is really obvious that you take influence from famous Lebanese musicians. Can you tell us about some of your non-metal influences, both Lebanese and Western?

You mean Lebanese Folk artists... Many bands whether nationally or internationally incorporated oriental music, I think what sets us apart from other bands is the fact that we are the first to incorporate Lebanese Folk music. From the Lebanese pool I am so much influenced by Lady Fairouz, and Lady Sabah, as well as the genius and limitless Marcel Khalifeh... And as being a Lebanese this means that Ziad El Rahbani is engraved in my soul like any other Lebanese. As well I am extremely fond of classical Arabic music, such as the Mouwashahat or better known as Mouwashahat Andalusia, and Roudoud El Halabia... Music of Oudh artists like Marcel Khalifa and Charbil Rouhana has a huge influence on me too.
As for western music, I am a huge fan of Andrew Lloyed Webber, Hans Zimmer, as Theatricals and Film soundtracks are among my fascinations in life... add to that my eternal love for Celtic Music that has been delivered gorgeously by Loreena Mckennitt (we covered one of her songs in the Hourglass’ EP Ancient Hope), and Classical Music such as Beethoven, Bach, Vivaldi, Rimsky Korsakov, Tchaikovsky... etc

Wissam Tabet was featured on Lord of the Night, composing all the orchestral parts for the album. Can you tell us about how that came about?

Wissam Tabet was the Keyboardist of Blaakyum during 2008 and 2009, when I wanted a permanent member to handle keys and orchestration, due to his lack of time and due to Blaakyum’s more Thrashy nature, it was evident that we cannot have a Keyboards player as a permanent member. So at some point during 2010 we had Joe Hannoush (a virtuoso player known for his work with his band Void) as our live sessionists player. When we decided to record the orchestral parts and include them in the album, I contacted Mr. Tabet again since he knew the songs. We worked on them together, as I actually composed the music, but since I do not have a good musical background, Wissam Tabet was our major arranger, and I chose him because unlike Hannoush, he is more into Classical music, especially Baroque, while Hannoush is more into modern music especially Jazz. Wissam is a musical genius, and we just click together, add to that another contributor in the arrangements, Mr. Anthony Saab, another genius... really this Land has an abundant amount of talents! Mr. Saab handled the Wind instruments, Brass section and the choir... so I guess this collaboration gave good results.

What got you into playing music in the first place? Do you have family members who inspired you to pick up the guitar or start singing?

As most know by know I was a break dancer, and I use to do my own choreography as well as organise musical dance pieces on the stage of my school where I was as well learning to become a priest. I’d have sometimes up to 15 dancers, whether it was Break Dance or expressive dancing... so I was in to that field ever since I was 12. As well my uncle had left me his two guitars, a gorgeous and expensive Classical “Contreras” guitar, which my neglect led to its blasphemous ruin (but that was way after I learned guitar) and an acoustic “Ibanez” guitar. As well as some of his Bob Dylan tapes, my father was a Beatles fan and had a band when he was young. But ironically my first instrument was Drums. I learned it when I was becoming a priest as the order I belonged to was that of the Salesians of Don Bosco, who was a saint devoted to the youth culture, thus the existence of the stage where I use to perform and the existence of a drum set at the monastery I was learning at. Then a nun there taught me my first three chords... later on, after I formed Blaakyum in the summer of 1995 I went and took basic courses with Mr. Tony Campbell, And that was it, from there I was self taught... As for singing, I have no fucking idea why I did that!!! Maybe because of my dancing shows I was use to be the frontman... And do not get me wrong, I had a horrible voice when I first started, I use to imitate in an immature way the high pitch of Axel Rose back when I as 15 and I used to use that immature high pitch to sing Europe songs, all this in my bedroom, to the horror of my family! Even the first Blaakyum line up change came after a dispute with the co-founding lead guitarist Jad Nohra, who is now an eternal friend, because he asked me to stop singing and focus on Rhythm Guitar or else he would leave. This whole thing led me to start taking vocal lessons with private tutor Mr. Edgar Aoun, who was known back then as “Le Tenor Du Liban” the Tenor of Lebanon...That was during 1998 and 2000 Ironically I never used my new learned techniques till I joined Communion in late 2002.

What have you been listening to lately?

Mostly Hans Zimmer and Nicolai Rimsky Korsakov, and a lot of Celtic music. On the Rock and Metal Side, mostly Whitesnake, Judas Priest and Testament.

Stepping away from Blaakyum for a moment, you also sing in The Hourglass, a Syrian band. How did that come about? You guys also opened up for Moonspell and Katatonia last summer! Can you tell us about that experience too?

Well in 2001 the split of Blaakyum affected me deeply, I was depressed, I think that aggravated my vocal problem as I had a throat disease and couldn’t sing for almost two years. When I recovered I was willing to do anything, that lead me to joining more than one band, Communion was the first, after trying out with the band Armory, but at that point I guess I was a bit sick of pure Metal, so I didn’t take the offer and instead joined Communion whom at the time were not musically as good as Armory, but I saw their potential. After that in 2003 I was approached by Mr. Salim Zahra who was the bassist of the Progressive Metal band Solitaire from Tripoli... I remained with Solitaire and recorded an unreleased Album. Rawad the founder and mastermind of The Hourglass was studying in Lebanon and was part of a Tripoli based Thrash band called Neo Blood. Later when he formed The Hourglass in late 2003 he was referred to me by a fellow vocalist called Razmig. We had already met in 2001 in Blaakyum/Alienz Rehearsal studio. So He came to Lebanon gave me the songs, asked me if I’d sing, I went to his beautiful farm in Homos, rehearsed, few weeks later hit the studio recorded the first album in 2004 and from there it went on.
About Beirut Rock Festival, that was my second experience of opening for an international act, as the first was with Blaakyum opening for Lake Of Tears... And in both times I was lucky to be in a band that got the actual opening spot, as in right before the headliner. What can I say, it was a beautiful experience, being backstage with Moonspell who were a childhood hero band for me, and Rawad is a classic doom lover, so Katatonia for him as well was a lovely experience. We had to rush our set though, playing only 3 songs out of the 6 intended... because of the not too accurate organisation. That blew away the thrill, although we were as one of Katatonia members said, a local band with an international level. Well you give and take, that is life.

Not only were you part of the Global Battle of the Bands in the past, but also you’ve recently been a judge for the 2011 contest! What did you think of the bands that participated? How do you feel about Lebanon’s rock and metal music community overall

I think you and many who follow my facebook account do know that I am extremely critical about the Lebanese Metal Scene and Lebanon itself, I call it the country of retarded uncivilised people... and I am very voicefull about my disgust of Lebanese mentality, politics, religion and what have you, so be sure that what I am about to say is not coming from any sense of patriotism or self praise:
My answer to your question, I think we have the best Metal Scene in the Arab world. And second best in the Middle East after Turkey.

If you could give some advice to a young aspiring musician from any country in the Middle East, what advice would you give?

UNITE! Our small local scenes are meant to fail on their own, our only hope is for the Middle Eastern Scene to become a single scene, and only then will we rise.
As for musicians, before you become a musician, specially a rock or metal one, be sure you want to make that choice, it is a life of pain and sacrifice, if you are looking for fame and fortune, or if you think being in a band will bring you p*****s to f**k, then either go sing pop, rap, or just work on your muscles and you have plenty of empty headed dumb chicks to f**k... If you make the choice of playing rock and metal, remember that this is not a hobby, if it is please f**k off, we do not need g**s like you, go have a scout music group for a hobby. BUT when you make that decision, remember that that was your choice, this is who you are, and once you start, never give up, everyone else will try to put you down, give them the finger, learn music, learn it hard, learn it well, and create, that is the ultimate pleasure, do not give up, support your fellow musicians, support your scene and grow with it. Remember that we are not fighters, for this war is never meant to be won, Metal is not pop nor mainstream, but we are eternal warriors, live by the code of honour of the Metal Warrior.

Do you and the guys have any pre-gig traditions before you hit the stage?

Yes, we come late (hahahaha)
Well, not really, maybe when we all have girlfriends, we would join in a big orgy before we play... Donno does that work?

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time when you aren’t writing or playing music?

Writing literary poems and prose, playing video games, annoying people who have neutral opinions, corrupting society, and especially the women who are slaves to men’s hypocrisy... it is time to crush our prehistoric traditions!

Are you guys planning any shows outside of Lebanon in the near future?

Yes we are. But first we are organising a Lebanese Tour, no band had ever toured Lebanon, I think far places like Bshareh/ Al Arz, Tripoli, Zahle, Shouf, Saida, Sour, all these deserve to have bands going there even if at the beginning it might sound strange.

Thanks so much for your time Bassem! All the best with Blaakyum and The Hourglass!

Thank you and keep up the good work Keeping Metal Alive \m/

Visit BLAAKYUM on: Facebook | Official Site

Hate Field - Scary Fairy Tales [Review]

2012-01-26T21:21:00.000-08:00

Genre: Industrial/Middle Eastern Folk Metal
Label: Domestic Genocide Records
Release date: January 29th (Digital release available now via Amazon)
Reviewer: Karim Tarek

After personally not being so active on Metality recently, I received the press kit of Hate Field’s debut album, “Scary Fairy Tale”, and I was pretty excited about writing a new album review after a period of idleness.

Hailing from Alexandria, Egypt, Hate Field is Alfi Hayati’s solo project, where he delivers all his inspirations through Industrial Metal tunes. If you are relatively into the Egyptian Metal scene, then I reckon you might have heard of Alfi’s name here or there as he has been the bassist of one of Egypt’s oldest and most high-profile bands, and one of my personal influences as a teenager, Odious, since 1999, which, I believe, plays a role as a crucial musical influence on Alfi despite the actual musical dissimilarity, with Odious playing Melodic Black Metal with oriental influences.

Hate Field certainly is not one of those side projects that would come out of the blue and go back to limbo fast; I could sense consistency and seriousness throughout the whole album, and I expect Alfi to come up with a new release every now and then while still having Odious as his main band, much in the same way as a lot of musicians do. The fact that Alfi wrote, played, and recorded a whole full-length album on his own in a not-too-long period of time, in a country where it takes most of the bands out there ages to come up with releases, is a point on which Alfi deserves kudos.

“Scary Fairy Tale” came well-put and musically mature; riffing, time signatures, transitions, and the fair touch of electronics came all well-organized and coherent, which sustained and consolidated the album’s musical structure. Riffs on “Scary Fairy Tale” are mostly groovy and mid-tempo, whereas there are some moments on the album that came melodic and others that displayed mastery that is not too common between musicians who play bass guitar as their main instrument.

Electronics too are an add-up to “Scary Fairy Tale” as they were used precisely to create a typical Industrial atmosphere around the groovy music; they are well-played and well-distributed over the album and are one of the elements that particularly helped shape Hate Field’s music.

Alfi’s vocal efforts did not actually add up much to the album as they were rather mediocre; however, they were still far from the kind of vocals that would bore you off, as Alfi smartly managed to diversify his vocal styles and present them disparately. Production too was not very impressive to me, but still that is not a very significant point considering the band’s resources. Moreover, I believe production quality is going to be enhanced on further releases from Hate Field.

Overall, “Scary Fairy Tale” is a record worth listening, coming out from a devoted musician who had put a lot of effort into it to come that way. He also mentions that the whole album was mainly influenced by, and is a vent for, his feelings and emotions that are derived from his personal life experience which adds up to the value of the album and makes it not just an album to listen to, but also to feel.

Highlights: Sweet Nightmare, Hope Overdose, Deadly Supafly.

[Ed note: Click here to order "Scary Fairy Tale" via Domestic Genocide Records (and receive the album's booklet along with your purchase).]

THE DEVASTATED Reveals "Devil's Messenger" Track Listing And Guest Vocalist

2012-01-26T20:56:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
THE DEVASTATED is preparing for the release of their "gross, grimy, groove" metal masterpiece, Devil's Messenger , on February 14th. In addition to announcing the track listing for the brutal 13-song album, THE DEVASTATED also reveals that SUICIDE SILENCE front-man Mitch Lucker is a guest vocalist on the song "Spit Vitriol" on Devil's Messenger. Mitch Lucker had this to say about his guest appearance on the album:

"Greg, the vocalist, has been a close friend for years. When he reached out to me for the part I was ecstatic! His band is amazing and I can't wait for this record to drop. It's the best shit I've heard in a long fucking time; super original and crushing from start to finish."

01. Drip. Drip.
02. Pseudo Smile Campaign
03. Swallowing Tumors
04. Failure To Thrive
05. Roof Top Panty Drop
06. Devil's Messenger
07. Spit Vitriol
08. Zombies
09. Bloody Bag Drag
10. Tongue In Cheek
11. Caprice
12. Conductor
13. Hollowed

In support of the release, THE DEVASTATED will be on the "F*ck All Your Friends Tour" with DR. ACULA and DESIGN THE SKYLINE. A list of dates can be seen below.

THE DEVASTATED also recently uploaded the first of three studio videos, showing the development of their music through the recording process. The first video can be seen here and the title-track from the album can be heard here.

Exclusive pre-orders packages for Devil's Messenger are also available through CMDistro.com.

For more information on THE DEVASTATED, please visit:
www.facebook.com/thedevastated
www.twitter.com/thedevastated
www.centurymedia.com

"F*ck All Your Friends Tour"
2/1 - Barrington, IL @ The Penny Road Pub
2/2 - Peoria, IL @ The Brass Rail
2/3 - Des Moines, IA @ Vaudville Mews
2/6 - Denver, CO @ Quixote
2/7 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Kilby Court
2/8 - Boise, ID @ The Venue
2/9 - Seattle, WA @ Studio 7
2/10 - Tacoma, WA @ Hell's Kitchen
2/11 - Medford, OR @ Musichead
2/12 - Orangevale, CA @ The Boardwalk
2/13 - Simi Valley, CA @ Dream 118
2/14 - West Hollywood, CA @ Whisky A Go Go *CD Release Show*
2/15 - Las Vegas, NV @ The Aruba
2/16 - Mesa, AZ @ The Underground
2/17 - Gallup, NM @ The Juggernaut
2/18 - El Paso, TX @ Lips Lounge
2/19 - San Antonio, TX @ White Rabbit
2/20 - Fort Worth, TX @ Tomcats
2/21 - Houston, TX @ Vinyl Junkie
2/22 - Little Rock, AR @ Downtown Music
2/23 - Clarksville, TN @ The Coupe
2/24 - Columbus, GA @ Gallery 13 Event Center
2/25 - Atlanta, GA @ Swayzes
2/26 - Tampa, FL @ Transition Art Gallery
2/27 - Daytona Beach, FL @ Port Orange Elks
2/28 - Charleston, SC @ Jimbo's Rock Lounge
2/29 - Spartanburg, SC @ Ground Zero
3/1 - Virginia Beach, VA @ Shakes
3/2 - Richmond, VA @ Kingdoms
3/3 - Wilmington, DE @ Harmony Grange
3/4 - Lemoyne, PA @ The Champ
3/5 - Fullerton, PA @ Planet Trog
3/6 - Danbury, CT @ Tuxedo Junction
3/7 - Providence, RI @ PVD Social Club
3/8 - Long Island, NY @ Broadway Bar
3/9 - Poughkeepsie, NY @ The Loft

BLAAKYUM – Lord of the Night [Review]

2012-01-26T20:14:00.000-08:00

Genre: Heavy Metal/Thrash
Label: Self-Released
Released: January 13th, 2012
Reviewer: Kareem Chehayeb

It took Blaakyum, Lebanon’s oldest active metal band, 15 years to release their debut full-length…makes “Time” (Wintersun) sound like a rushed album. Blaakyum is a band incredibly well known around Lebanon and has a very solid and unique lineup. The band began in 1995, split up in 2001, and returned in 2007. They represented Lebanon in the 2007 Global Battle of the Bands and were placed in the top 10 in the finals, which took place in London. The band consists of Jad on drums, Rany on bass, Elias on lead guitar (also plays lead for Weeping Willow), and founder, Bassem, on vocals and guitar (also vocalist for Syrian band, The Hourglass). Lord of the Night was recorded and mixed in Lebanon and mastered in Cutting Room Studios in Sweden (Meshuggah, Hypocrisy, Behemoth, In Flames). This album is for those who love Testament, Megadeth, orchestral, and Lebanese music (to a certain degree).

The album opens up with Dark Moon, a three-minute intro of orchestral goodness, courtesy of Wissam Tabet. Choirs, pizzicato violins, and cellos that eventually morph into an Epica-like symphonic metal passage that ends with a gong. Lord of the Night, which is the first full track of the album, follows in relatively smoothly. Sounds a bit like something that would come off of Megadeth’s Rust in Peace with a Lebanese-edge to it. Bassem’s vocals really impressed me. He is incredibly versatile. The chorus has such a catchy tune and a great melodic atmosphere that differs from the relative groove of the rest of the song. Bassem’s vocal chords take abuse with the intensity of singing, whether he’s hitting some falsettos, growls, or even what sounds like tenor operatic singing. Elias’ solo is phrased well, a combination of catchy melodies with some technical playing, and the orchestras punching behind the rhythm parts sound surprisingly well. Overall, it was an enjoyable song.

Another old track that is popular amongst the fans of the band has also been included on this, the awkwardly titled “Am I Black”, a song Snoop Dogg won’t be too fond of. Title aside, it’s a very cool song. The orchestra in the beginning is beautiful, and the tune is reminiscent of contemporary (but not too contemporary) Middle Eastern music. Bassem’s operatic singing is fantastic, and the growls in the interlude sound demonic. It’s a very catchy song and it was definitely well done and improved from the demo released in 98 with that title.

The Land is a unique track on the album as well. It’s the track that Middle Eastern and folk metal enthusiasts will want to check out. The intro with the acoustic in a style reminiscent of the “oud” is something different on this album, and the tunes remind me a lot of some older singers in Lebanon, which is something I personally enjoyed, because it was incorporated nicely with their western metal influences. Bassem once again just does outstandingly well with his singing. The chorus also has some Arabic – “Lebanon, land of love and peace”, and so does the outro. The outro goes into a completely different time signature, a lot like a traditional Lebanese song, and you can hear some “tablas” and tamborines towards the end. It’s definitely a catchy song, and is a more genuine “Middle Eastern influenced” attempt by a regional band.

Songs like Last Stand, Battle Roar, Rip It Off all are enjoyable as well. They sound like reformed thrash songs from their glory days. What I think allows this band to prevail over the tens of bands from the Middle East that play thrash or heavy metal is influence that comes directly from Lebanon. I think when bands claim they’re influenced by Middle Eastern music, they don’t look past the harmonic-minor scale, and that is a BIG mistake. Another factor is Bassem’s vocals. The diversity, from his dynamic range to his falsettos and growls, gives a unique edge to the metal. The tunes he uses combine stuff you may here from Metallica and Megadeth to stuff that can come out of Arabic music in the Levante region of the Middle East.

Overall, it’s a solid album. The 15-year wait was definitely worth it. While many think that too many bands in the region who play thrash/heavy metal are not innovative and not very genuine, Blaakyum are a different case. The veteran band released a solid and enjoyable album. Bassem took his time and went through many lineup changes before finally having Lord of the Night sorted out and arranged carefully.

It is really astounding that some of these tracks are over 10 years old and still made it in without major changes and still sound fresh. That being said, some of the tracks definitely stand out while others fit in well but don’t blow me away as much. Rany and Jad make a very solid rhythmic unit, but give way to their own creativity more than occasionally throughout the album. Elias’s solos are not as technical as on his work with The Weeping Willow, which in my opinion is a good thing. The well phrased melodies and “feel” in his solos on this album show a different side to him, and I personally enjoyed that as well. His solo on Awakened Dreams is my favorite at the moment. Bassem’s vocals really stole the show for me on this album, and play a huge role in why I enjoy this album. Last but not least, Wissam’s orchestral work was fantastic and did not drown out any of the songs, but made them a little bit more interesting.

Recommended tracks:
Lord of the Night
My Land
Awakened Dreams
Am I Black

I give this album a 7.5/10

Visit BLAAKYUM: Official Site | Facebook

PIGEON TOE (feat. members of TRIPTYKON and FEAR MY THOUGHTS) Sign to Lifeforce Records

2012-01-26T19:44:00.001-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
[Lifeforce Records is] honored to announce with the signing of German prog-rockers PIGEON TOE one of the most interesting new German bands!

The idea of founding a new project besides their bands FEAR MY THOUGHTS, BACKSLIDE and MONGOUSE, already existed in the minds of the two brothers Marsn and Hanson since 2008. After the split of MONGOUSE they put even more focus on it and chose "PIGEON TOE" as a working title.

With some rough song ideas FEAR MY THOUGHTS bandmate Norman Lonhard (now TRIPTYKON) was asked to beat the skins and joined the band. Shortly after their well known fellow Ben Krahl (FINAL KINGS) at bass was in too. After FEAR MY THOUGHTS split up, Patrick Hagmann joined PIGEON TOE on 3rd Guitar and Synths.

After several shows in 2010 and 2011, amongst others with KARNIVOOL, PIGEON TOE supported LONG DISTANCE CALLING on their "Into The Black Wide Open ? Tour" through Germany and Switzerland. During 2009 and 2010 PIGEON TOE had enough time to elaborate their songs which piled up and to form the shape and work out the concept for their debut album, which will be released via their new label home Lifeforce Records very soon. So stay tuned!

PIGEON TOE is
Martin Fischer (Marsn) - Guitar/Vocals
Hans Fischer (Hanson) - Guitar/Vocals
Norman Lonhard - Drums
Patrick Hagmann - Guitar/Synths
Ben Krahl - Bass

www.pigeontoe.de
www.facebook.com/pigeontoeband
www.myspace.com/pigeontoeband

LAMB OF GOD - Resolution [Review]

2012-01-26T18:13:00.000-08:00

Genre: Groove/Thrash Metal
Label: Epic, Roadrunner Records
Released: January 24th, 2012
Reviewer: Tristan French

Lamb of God have always been a band for surprises. At the conclusion of their major tours, they’d lie low for a while and then come back and blow our ears off. Well this time round, they’ve done just that, except they’ve decided to take our faces, heads, bodies....pretty much our entire being away as well. 3 years after their previous album “Wrath” hit shelves and showed a return to the rawer side of Lamb of God, 2012’s follow up “Resolution” offers the Lamb of God ethos that we know and love whilst entering some previously unsailed waters in their now almost 2 decade spanning career. Its easy to say that these guys have come a hell of a way since their beginnings in 1994, and this record only goes to prove that LOG plan to continue their reign of dominance across the world again.

The album opens with the sludgy doom slow roller “Straight for the Sun.” Whilst easily being the slowest song ever written by the band, no sacrifices have been made in terms of heaviness or brutality, in fact, these factors are amplified! Opening the song with a trademark shrill scream from vocalist Randy Blythe, the tone is instantly shifted, as the band enters low territory. This track has a similar air to Pantera’s “Drag the Waters”. Each resounding low chord and note feeling like a strike to the chin, this seems to be LOG’s way of saying “We’ve come back for you all!”, a spine chilling opening and a good predecessor of what is to come in the rest of the record.

The tempo is immediately increased through by this track’s conclusion and this leads into the pumping main riff of the second track “Desolation.” Drummer, Chris Adler’s precision is on great display here, landing each beat with complete accuracy whilst still keeping things brutal, reminding us all of why he’s one of the best in the business (and shall be filling in for part of Testament’s upcoming record). This coupled with a trademark breakdown make this track one heck of a pace racer, with guitarists Willie Adler and Mark Morton’s awesome bends shining through. This coupled with the clear frustration and anger behind Blythe’s voice make for one hell of what I can only describe as a two part opening (haha).

The following track is the album’s lead single (for which an animated music video is available), I speak of course of “Ghost Walking.” In short, welcome to groove city. This song will surely have heads bobbing and feet tapping as it rolls along like a steam roller obliterating everything in it’s path (including Lil Wayne). Once again drum fills are on prominent display on top of an almost bluesy riff, courtesy of guitarist Mark Morton. Another main feature to this song is it features the first solo of the record (the first of many). As strange as that is for a LOG record, it offers Morton the chance to demonstrate his uncanny ability to take blues riffs and make a metal song out of them. Truly awesome guitar work coupled with provocative lyrics, with Blythe stating “21 to 1, I’m liking the odds” and ending with a truly resounding “THERE’S NO ONE LEFT TO SAVE.” I don’t know about you, but at this point in the record, I was most definitely liking these odds.

The album follows suit in a truly brutal manner with the thrashtastic “Guilty”. Sure to have crowds banging heads until they spin clean off, this is THE LOG track to simply go balls out crazy to. The subsequent track “The Undertow” is one of my personal favorites from the album. With a steady foot tapping mid paced riff, this is Randy’s chance to vent, featuring some of the rawest vocals he’s ever done. An awesome chorus of “I AM THE ONE WHO’S LEFT TO TAKE THE FALL! I FIGHT THE CONSTANT UNDERTOW!” truly reflects the frustration and struggle felt by the frontman. Trademark runs and awesome double bass drum beats make this a song for the books, with this song’s breakdown/solo receiving an awesome build up, Morton and Adler are able to display their riffing and technical prowess in the most suitable environment.

Things slow right down as track number 6 (ironically titled) “The Number Six” rears its head. The second longest track on the record (at 5 and half minutes!), this is a brilliant songwriting showcase. The amount of tempo variations within this track alone is insane! Nonetheless coupled with a refrain sure to be repeated by audiences worldwide of “YOU DUG YOUR OWN GRAVE.” One of the main highlights of “The Number Six” is Blythe’s vocal variation, ranging from raspy harsh cleans to his guttural, deep spoken lines, this is some truly poetic stuff. This highlight is also supported by the awesomely soulful clean sections, proving that heaviness isn’t this band’s only forte.

After such a bruiser of a track, “Resolution” then decides to calm us all down with the short yet awesome clean guitar instrumental “Barbarosa.” While squeals from an electric guitar refrain in the background, this truly is a haunting track, designed to creep up on you slowly and lead subtly into the surprise that is “Invictus.” Bringing back the groove to the record “Invictus” is bassist John Campbell’s chance to shine; where his groovey/smooth basslines are THE most prominent that they ever have been, upping the tempo during the song’s midsection. Combining this with an epically brutal breakdown makes for one storm of a track.

Following this is the clear punk influence of “Cheated.” At this point, this is easily the fastest track on the record. Within the same vein as songs like “Black Label” and “What I’ve Become”, its clear intent that this song is meant to be played to the waves of an insane circle pit (in awesome LOG fashion of course). Featuring some amazing drum fills during an epicly climactic bridge, this song will be a live favorite for sure.

Tenth track “Insurrection” is a plethora of unpredictability, with drum beats appearing when you least expect them, its Blythe’s vocals that provide the rhythm to this track. Featuring the appearance of some brilliant guitar harmonies on top of some clearly haunting/resounding chords. “Terminally Unique” provides a great minor key contrast, featuring yet another riff that rolls along crushing all in its path, whilst “To The End” provides another transformation of a blues rock riff into a metal one, once again proving Morton and Adler’s guitar prowess. “Visitation” provides a slight thrashy return, with awesome slowed sections on the pre-choruses. Coupling this with sections of clear teeth gritting vocal techniques from Blythe make this one heck of a venting track, sure to have fists throwing like no tomorrow.

The final track of this album is hands down my favorite on the record, being, in my opinion, one of THE best and most unique songs ever written by the band. I speak of course of “King Me.”

Starting with an almost middle eastern sounding clean intro coupled with female vocals (yes female vocals on a LOG record!) whilst Blythe’s raspy spoken words flow flawlessly. The song then enters into an orchestral string section (again, first time on an LOG record!) building up and diminishing into Blythe’s poetics once again. Out of nowhere “King Me” explodes into a supernova of track, featuring a brilliant opening growl from Blythe, the rest of the band follow suit, playing more aggressively than they ever have whilst still displaying control. An orchestral chorus and some backing female vocals are truly the icing on the cake to such an awesomely progressive song, this track is the symbol of Lamb of God entering previously unexplored territories...and in short it’s awesome!

In conclusion, I think we have a strong contender for 2012’s album of the year, and the year’s barely begun. For a band that have progressed so much over the course of their career to culminate in a brilliant metal opus that is “Resolution” should truly be viewed as a great achievement. Honestly, I can give this record no less than a 9/10. If you haven’t picked this record up yet, then you’re missing out, a lot!

Order "Resolution" through: iTunes | Amazon Mp3 : CD

Jon Howard (THREAT SIGNAL) Recommends His "Top 5 Metal Songs Everyone Should Listen To"

2012-01-25T23:11:00.000-08:00

Being one of Canada's most popular modern metal outfits. Threat Signal has come a long way since their formation back in 2004.

After the release of 2006's "Under Reprisal" (produced by former Fear Factory guitarist/bassist Christian Olde Wolbers) the band formed a solid fan base; while extensively touring in-support of the release.
In October of last year the band released their latest self titled studio effort, which saw the band blend their dynamic thrash metal influences with a more melodic approach, reminiscent of their 2009 release "Vigilance;" creating a sonic wave of intensity.

A while back I got in contact with the band's front man Jon Howard to find out what are some songs he would recommend to fellow metal heads, and he was more than nice to hit me back shortly with his top 5. Noting that it was hard to only pick 5, stating:

"Right on! Here are some metal songs that I think everyone should hear. Hard to pick only 5..."

So without further ado, here's Jon Howard's "Top 5 Metal Songs Everyone Should Listen To."

[Make sure to check out Threat Signal on Facebook. Order the new self titled release by clicking here.]

3 INCHES OF BLOOD Announces New Bass Player

2012-01-25T23:00:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

With every album released and live show played, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD give their all, keeping traditionalist metal alive. The band is pleased to announce that Bryon Stroud of Fear Factory and formerly of Strapping Young Lad, has officially joined the group taking over bass duties. Stroud and 3 INCHES OF BLOOD have been working together on a variety of things, and Stroud is beyond pleased shift his involvement to a creative level.

"I am super stoked to let everyone know that I have joined my brothers in 3IOB," exclaims Stroud. "We are busy rehearsing for touring of the new record Long Live Heavy Metal . The band asked me to come on board as manager last year. We rehearse in my bike shop, I've toured with them in the past and being involved in many aspects of the new record has been extremely gratifying for me. I'm looking forward and see a great future for this band. I'll see you all on tour this year."

On March 27th, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD will release their highly anticipated 5th studio album, Long Live Heavy Metal. In support of the release, 3 INCHES OF BLOOD will be heading out on the "Metal Alliance Tour 2012" with DEVILDRIVER, THE FACELESS, DYING FETUS, JOB FOR A COWBOY, IMPENDING DOOM and WRETCHED. A full list of dates can be seen below.

For more information on 3 INCHES OF BLOOD, please visit:
www.facebook.com/threeinchesofblood
www.twitter.com/3iob
www.centurymedia.com

"Metal Alliance Tour 2012"
3/15/2012 - Austin, TX @ Scoot Inn
3/16/2012 - New Orleans, LA @ The Hangar
3/17/2012 - St. Petersburg, FL @ State Theater
3/18/2012 - Charlotte, NC @ Amos
3/20/2012 - Baltimore, MD @ Sonar
3/21/2012 - New York, NY @ Gramercy Theater
3/22/2012 - Danvers, MA @ Palace Ballroom
3/23/2012 - Montreal, QC, Canada @ Le National
3/24/2012 - Toronto, ON, Canada @ Opera House
3/25/2012 - Columbus, OH @ Alrosa Villa
3/26/2012 - Joliet, IL @ Mojoe's
3/27/2012 - St. Paul, MN @ Station-4
3/28/2012 - Winnipeg, MB, Canada @ Garrick Centre
3/29/2012 - Regina, SK, Canada @ Riddell Centre
3/30/2012 - Edmonton, AB, Canada @ Edmonton Events Centre
3/31/2012 - Vancouver, BC, Canada @ Rickshaw Theater
4/1/2012 - Seattle, WA @ Studio Seven
4/2/2012 - Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theater
4/5/2012 - Oakland, CA @ The Pound
4/6/2012 - Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues
4/7/2012 - Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theater
4/8/2012 - Albuquerque, NM @ El Rey Theater
4/9/2012 - Denver, CO @ The Summit Music Hall
4/10/2012 - Omaha, NE @ Sokol Auditorium
4/11/2012 - Des Moines, IA @ 7 Flags Event Center
4/13/2012 - Memphis, TN @ New Daisy Theater
4/15/2012 - Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theater
4/16/2012 - Tulsa, OK @ Cain's Ballroom
4/19/2012 - Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
4/20/2012 - Austin, TX @ Emo's East
4/21/2012 - Houston, TX @ House of Blues

NAPALM DEATH LAUNCHES "OCCUPY NAPALM" CAMPAIGN ON FACEBOOK

2012-01-25T22:49:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
The legendary NAPALM DEATH will be releasing their 14th studio album, Utilitarian, on February 27th in Europe and February 28th in North America, so be prepared for a new grind classic coming soon! In anticipation of this release, the band has now launched an "Occupy Napalm" Facebook tab to show their support for the Occupy movement and to provide fans with the latest news about their politically-charged Utilitarian. With downloadable Occupy-themed stencils and screensavers, plus a special video teaser for Utilitarian created by Mitch Harris (guitar, vocals), this Facebook tab is the place to go for everything NAPALM DEATH! To Occupy Napalm, click the link below:

http://www.facebook.com/officialnapalmdeath?sk=app_310973815610388

More content will be added to the Occupy Napalm Facebook tab soon, so check back often for updates from the band!

NAPALM DEATH recently released a new single, "Leper Colony", which can be heard here. The complete track-listing for Utilitarian is below.

Utilitarian track-listing
1. Circumspect
2. Errors In The Signals
3. Everyday Pox
4. Protection Racket
5. The Wolf I Feed
6. Quarantined
7. Fall On Their Swords
8. Collision Course
9. Orders Of Magnitude
10. Think Tank Trials
11. Blank Look About Face
12. Leper Colony
13. Nom De Guerre
14. Analysis Paralysis
15. Opposite Repellent
16. A Gag Reflex
17. Aim Without An Aim *BONUS*
18. Everything In Mono *BONUS*

Upon Utilitarian's release, NAPALM DEATH's limited-edition Analysis Paralysis 7" EP will also be available for purchase here at CM Distro in black and clear vinyl. Its B-Side includes the exclusive track "Youth Offender", making this 7" a very collectable piece for any diehard NAPALM DEATH fan!

The band is already confirmed to play the 2012 editions of Wacken Open Air (Germany), Hellfest (France), Maryland Deathfest (USA), and several shows from late January onwards, including a special record release show in Birmingham on February 25th. Check the dates below to see when NAPALM DEATH will be coming to a city near you!

NAPALM DEATH live 2012
27.01 -- Siegen -- Vortex Club (GER)
28.01 -- Cham -- L.A. Cham (GER)
29.01 -- Koblenz -- Circus Maximus (GER)
02.03 -- Tilburg -- Neurotic Deathfest (NL)
03.03 -- Aachen -- Musikbunker (GER)
04.03 -- Paris -- Maroquinerie (FR)
31.03 -- Enschde -- Atak (NL)
04.04 -- Blios -- Chatodo (FR)
05.04 -- Castres -- Bolegason (FR)
06.04 -- Rambouillet -- Usine a Chapeaux (FR)
07.04 -- St Brieuc -- Citrouille (FR)
27.04 -- Lausanne -- Les Docks (CH)
28.04 -- Bari -- Demode' Club (IT)
29.04 -- Livorno -- The Cage Teather (IT)
11.05 -- Magdeburg -- Factory (GER)
12.05 -- Essen -- Zeche Carl (GER)
24.-27.05 -- Sonar, Baltimore -- Maryland Deathfest (USA)
01.06 -- Barcelona -- Primavera Sound (ES)
15.06 -- Clisson -- Hellfest (FR)
27.07 -- Bertingen -- Rock unter den Eichen Open Air (GER)
28.07 -- Essen -- Nord Open Air Festival (GER)
02.-04.08 -- Wacken -- Wacken Open Air (GER)
06.08 -- Tolmin -- Metalcamp (SI)

AGAINST EMPIRE's 'Thieves and Leeches' Now Streaming on Gunshy Assassin

2012-01-25T22:32:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Crusty anarcho-punk lifers AGAINST EMPIRE recently released their third full-length, entitled Thieves and Leeches, on venerable label Profane Existence. Fans of d-beat, metalpunk, and brainy anarcho-crust like AUS ROTTEN, BORN/DEAD, and DOGSHOLYLIFE (with whom AE share several members), get stoked!
Based in LA and known for their furious take on d-beaten punk rock (as well as a stream of wicked 7"s, full-lengths, and a recent split with blackened crust terrors ISKRA), AGAINST EMPIRE have joined forced with Gunshy Assassin to unleash Thieves and Leeches' politicized power upon the masses. Listen to the album in full at this location: http://gunshyassassin.com/album-streams/against-empire-album-stream-thieves-and-leeches/

Thieves and Leeches includes seven new tracks (plus a CRUCIFIX cover!) and highlights AGAINST EMPIRE's knack for mixing classic 80's style hardcore with hints of more modern crust punk influences. The recording is clean but powerful, with post-production mastering handled at Jack Control's Enormous Door Studios. Pick up a copy here: http://www.profaneexistence.com/against-empire-thieves-and-leeches-lp/

AGAINST EMPIRE - Thieves and Leeches
Tracklisting:

Side A
1. Thieves and Leeches
2. Dawn of the Century
3. Live for Yourself
4. What If Tomorrow Never Comes

Side B
5. Deaf Leading the Blind
6. Wordsmiths
7. Another Mouth to Feed
8. Angel Tears

JEFF LOOMIS REVEALS GUEST VOCALIST ON UPCOMING ALBUM

2012-01-25T22:26:00.001-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Legendary guitarist JEFF LOOMIS has been in the studio the last few months working on his highly anticipated sophomore solo album, to be released later this year. Since entering the studio, LOOMIS has revealed a number of notable guests that will be appearing on the release and now, LOOMIS announces the newest special guest: IHSAHN, formerly of Norwegian black metal band EMPEROR and current solo artist. JEFF LOOMIS updates:

"I know most of you are aware that Christine Rhoades is doing some vocals on my album. At first I thought she'd be the only guest singer on the record but then this one song started coming together, it's pretty brutal. I've always wanted to do really, really heavy music and after hearing this, both Aaron and myself thought we needed some crazy, sick singer on it. We just sat around tossing names out for a bit, nothing really was sticking and then Aaron says, 'I got it...Ihsahn' and it was one of those moments where you knew that was the answer all along, it just hadn't been unlocked in your mind yet. Anyway, a few short emails back and forth and we had his vocal track in. It came out amazing. I can't wait for you to hear it. Ihsahn, thanks again, it's an honor to have you on my record."

The new album will be produced by Aaron Smith (7 Horns 7 Eyes), and fans should keep their eyes peeled for previews of developing songs, studio updates and additional details.

For more information on JEFF LOOMIS, please visit:
www.jeffloomis.com
www.facebook.com/jeffloomisfans
www.centurymeida.com

SHEAR – Brand New Song and Live Videos (Two More New Songs) Revealed!

2012-01-25T22:16:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
On the Lifeforce Records FACEBOOK profile (FB 'like' required) you can now find the brand new song "Someone Else's Eyes" from SHEAR's upcoming album "Breaking The Stillness".

SOMEONE ELSE'S EYES is the fourth track of SHEAR's upcoming album "Breaking the Stillness". This song demonstrates the recognizable sound of SHEAR including the seamless interplay between the guitars, bass, and drums combined with the strong vocal melodies. The song flows from a heavier verse to a memorable and atmospheric chorus. SOMEONE ELSE'S EYES gives you a first glance of one of the many versatile tracks of the upcoming album of SHEAR.

In addition to the just revealed song here you can find 2 nice fan-filmed live videos for the tracks 'Wounded' and 'No Way Out' also taken from the band's Lifeforce Records debut "Breaking The Stillness" coming in March 2012. The videos were taken at the band?s show on January 19th in Helsinki:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFYUr0QzHVw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5fd7tG_j1U

4ARM Release Album Trailer for Submission For Liberty

2012-01-25T22:10:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Australian 4 piece thrash band 4ARM have released an official web trailer for their much anticipated new album scheduled for a February 6, 2012 release through Rising Records. Now you have the opportunity to hear a little of what to expect on “Submission For Liberty”.

4ARM - Submission For Liberty (Album Trailer) from RSI Digital Media on Vimeo.

IF THESE TREES COULD TALK: Announce New Album "Red Forest" + Spring European Tour Dates

2012-01-25T21:40:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Band Schedules Two Week European Tour This April

Akron, OH post-rock outfit If These Trees Could Talk has announced plans to release the band's third album, Red Forest on March 20th. Vinyl treatment will be released on Science of Silence Records, while the band will self-release the CD and digital versions. The nine song, 48-minute long album was self-produced throughout much of 2011 at NEMeadow Studios in Bath, OH. Will Putney mastered the album and Charlie Wagers of Three Bears Design was at the helm for art direction and design.

Red Forest gives fans their first look into new music from The Trees since their critically acclaimed full-length Above The Earth, Below The Sky, which was released in 2009. In 2006, The Trees released their debut self-produced eponymous EP, which was the launching point for their career.

"When we went into this record, we decided towards the end of the writing process that we wanted to self-produce and record it. We had self-produced the last two albums, and wanted to continue on that path. This afforded us the opportunity to take our time with the tracks and gave them space to grow."

Red Forest Tracklisting:
1. Breath of Life
2. The First Fire
3. Barren Lands of the Modern Dinosaur
4. They Speak With Knives
5. The Gift of Two Rivers
6. Red Forest
7. Aleutian Clouds
8. Left to Rust and Rot
9. When the Big Hand Buries the Twelve

The writing of the record came about very naturally, say the band members.

"Once we decided that a song had made it far enough, we tracked it, re-tracked it and just kept adding onto it until we were happy with it. It was very much a write-as-you-record kind of experience. The recording console had a flat screen above it that played Koyaanisqatsi on repeat, which kind of encapsulates our feelings on what inspired the record."

In addition to releasing new music, The Trees will embark on a two week European tour in April. "This is something that seemed out of reach, but has come to fruition in a very seamless way. We couldn't be happier to finally be playing for fans that have been asking for so long. We really can't thank them enough for all the support and passion that they have given us." Starting off at Dunk! Festival in Belgium on April 7th, the band will make their way through Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, and finish with three dates at Astral Fest in Russia. See below for a full list of dates.

European Tour Dates:
Apr 07 Dunk! Festival | Sottegem, Belgium
Apr 08 Kulturpalast | Wiesbaden, Germany
Apr 09 Kassablanca | Jena, Germany
Apr 10 Klub 007 | Prague, Czech Republic
Apr 11 Hydrozagadka | Warsaw, Poland
Apr 12 Fabrika | Poznan, Poland
Apr 13 Cassiopeia | Berlin, Germany
Apr 14 Druckluft | Oberhausen, Germany
Apr 15 Rhiz | Vienna, Austria
Apr 16 Instant | Budapest, Hungary
Apr 17 Tvornica Kulture | Zagreb/Sljeme Medvednica, Croatia
Apr 18 PMK | Innsbuck, Austria
Apr 19 The Waiting Room | Saint Petersburg, Russia
Apr 20 Tele-Club | Ekaterinburg, Russia
Apr 21 Milk | Moscow, Russia

The Trees music has been featured in various MTV and VH1 shows, Levi's, Nike and Van's webisodes as well as in Friday Night Lights and the Playstation 3 video game, InFamous. Look for more music to be featured in the upcoming documentary The Other Dream Team, which will be premiering at the Sundance Film Festival this week.

Keep up to date with all band and label news:
www.twitter.com/treescouldtalk
www.facebook.com/treescouldtalk
www.ifthesetreescouldtalk.com

www.facebook.com/scienceofsilence
www.scienceofsilence.net

OSI: Brand New Album Announced! Tracklisting and Album Artwork Revealed

2012-01-24T15:41:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]Fire Make Thunder marks the fourth undertaking for the collaborative duo known as OSI. Formed in 2002 by Jim Matheos (Fates Warning, Arch/Matheos) and Kevin Moore (Chroma Key, former Dream Theater keyboardist), OSI is a long distance partnership, both musicians typically writing and recording alone and sending song ideas back and forth for further elaboration. Written and recorded throughout most of 2011, this latest release once again reflects the eclectic influences of both Matheos and Moore.

Fire Make Thunder is slated for a March 27th release via Metal Blade Records. Today OSI unveils the artwork and the tracklisting for their fourth release.

Tracklisting:
1) Cold Call
2) Guards
3) Indian Curse
4) Enemy Prayer
5) Wind Won't Howl
6) Big Chief II
7) For Nothing
8) Invisible Men

Additionally OSI has released an exclusive audio medley from Fire Make Thunder, which features audio samples from the upcoming release. The medley as well as pre-order opportunities can be accessed HERE.

Returning as the band's session drummer is Gavin Harrison of Porcupine Tree, this time co-writing one of the tracks with the band. All other instruments and programming were performed by both Matheos and Moore, while vocals and lyrics were handled exclusively by Moore.

All of the recording for Fire Make Thunder, with the exception of drums, was done by Moore and Matheos at each musician's respective home studio with drums being recorded at Harrison's home in London. Final overdubs as well as some additional writing/arranging was completed in July 2011 in Jamaica, Iowa, where the band mixed alongside engineer Matt Sepanic at Sound Farm Studio and Recording Environment. Mastering was handled by renowned engineer Roger Siebel. The record was produced by both Moore and Matheos.

We reached out to OSI for comments on the album. Our calls have not been returned.

For More Information Please Visit:
http://www.osiband.com (Official Site)
http://www.metalblade.com/osi (Pre-Order Page)
http://twitter.com/osi_band (Twitter)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/OSI/203893353038854 (Facebook)
http://youtube.com/osivideos (YouTube)
https://plus.google.com/101327182573580737209 (Google Plus)
http://myspace.com/osiband (MySpace)
http://www.metalblade.com (Label)

VOICE OF THE SOUL Issue Update

2012-01-24T15:22:00.000-08:00

Melodic Death Metal band Voice of The Soul issued the following update concerning their recent line-up changes and their upcoming full length album:

"Hello all!

It's been less than a month into 2012 and we have been incredibly busy thus far.

First of all, we would like to announce Rana Rassouli's departure from the band. It has been a year of great experience with her, and we would like to wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

That being said, we would also like to officially introduce and welcome Khalid Temimi into the band behind the drumkit. Khalid Temimi is of Iraqi origin who was brought up in Abu Dhabi. We've played gigs with his old band, Shotgun Enema in the past. Not only is he a beast behind the kit but he's one funny guy too!

We kicked off the year at The Silent Era Gig in Dubai on January 6th! We had a great time performing with Khalid for the first time and our session bassist, Vishal Bala, who pitched in for Ahmed Al Zubaidi, who was in the UK. We had the pleasure to play right before headlining act, Perversion - who are one of the most recognizable bands from the Middle East, as well as share the stage with Black13Angelz, a Kuwait-based metalcore act who we have known for years.

We uploaded a couple of videos to our Youtube channel on youtube.com/votsband - one is of the events happening before the gig, and one is a 15 minute compilation of our set!

Silent Era Pre-Gig Video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AvFyOM8kwI
Voice of the Soul Silent Era Live Set Video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWXt50IDwvM

Full-length:
We have started writing for our first full-length. There is no decision made about when it will be recorded or released just yet...we are focusing primarily on playing shows with new bands in new places and spreading the VotS sickness everywhere.

T-shirts:
Fans who are interested in t-shirts can email votsband@gmail.com for more details regarding shipping, prices...etc

Final note

Thank you for supporting the band and keeping up with all the crazy things that go on during the year. We hope to play someplace near you!

Once again, Into Oblivion EP can be purchased or downloaded on voiceofthesoul.bandcamp.com

Happy (belated?) new year!

BILOCATE Signs Management & Booking deal with Flaming Arts Agency

2012-01-24T15:02:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Jordanian Dark Oriental Metallers BILOCATE recently inked a deal with Flaming Arts Agency (Behemoth, Novembers doom, Blood Red Throne, Hate, Hecate Enthroned...and more) as their official management and booking agency (worldwide) handling all band affairs in the music industry and to be the sole representative for all matters related to Bilocate affairs.

As Bilocate frontman and vocalist Ramzi Essayed commented on the deal "We've been in touch with them over the past years, and they've been always professional, helpful, and supportive and as we stand in a good relationship it's about time we take this a bit further therefore we’re very excited for this deal as it’s definitely another successful step in Bilocate's musical career" 

The Flaming Arts Agency is a music management, booking and development company who represents and consults bands and musicians of extreme Metal. Founded in 2002 by Vadim Khomich the company started out as booking in the Russian states and quickly grew to the biggest booking agency in Russia for extreme music booking bands such as Papa Roach, Behemoth, Ill Nino, Cannibal Corpse, Chimaira, Sepultura, Within Temptation, Vader, Dismember, Dying Fetus, Cradle Of Filth, The Cult, Testament, Devil Driver and many more.

Following the success of the Russian territory, the company quickly grew worldwide and now book in UK, Western Europe, Asia and USA. Now fully fledged into management, booking and artist development the agency is one of the most reputable in Europe offering three different services for the extreme metal scene.

http://www.theflamingarts.eu/artists/

Benevolent: “We are wrapping up the writing process for our debut full length album”

2012-01-24T13:27:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
Benevolent’s co-founder (guitarist/co-vocalist) Hadi Sarieddine has confirmed that the band is nearing the end of the writing and preproduction process for the debut full length album, which is the follow up to the highly touted Divided EP (2010) which saw the band take the Middle East metal scene by storm, leading the Lebanese-founded metal band into the signing with Spellbind Records alongside Middle East metal icons Nervecell.

Hadi describes the material as “dramatic, technical, uneasy, and progressive” stating that the album is a step up from the bands’ previous work and pushes the band’s limits and boundaries ahead.

“This album’s definitely a fine blend of lots of dramatic moments, the songs are heavier than before and I think it’s an honest attempt at pushing our artistic limits further”

In talk about the songs in the album, Hadi had this to say

“The songs are longer, the soundscapes and textural backgrounds are there and there’s a whole new tuning on the album…I think there’s only one or two songs that share the tunings used on Divided EP and I’ve taken that as a conscious decision, I wanted to explore writing riffs in different tunings…it felt like uncharted territory for me and that definitely got the creative juices flowing!”

The band will record the debut untitled full-length with Sajid ‘Sarj’ Masood who worked with the band on Divided EP and has been repeatedly cited as one of the main factors that allowed the band’s sound to be experienced in the manner that it did. Though the band has not set a date as to when the recording of the album will start, the album is expected to be out in stores through the spring of 2012.

Benevolent had previously announced the release of a single in 2011 prior to the end of the year, however, this had been changed and confirmed by Fadi (band’s co-founder and lead vocalist) that the song intended as a single will indeed be featured on the full length instead.

“We had a song planned for release as a single through Q4 of 2011 and though we haven’t released that song yet it will SURELY be featured on the debut full-length, it’s one of our favorite songs!”

On a final note, Hadi has been blogging on the progress with regards to the Benevolent album in addition to other things such as songwriting and production methodologies, do check out the blog at hadibenevolent.blogspot.com to keep up with all the updates!

LINKS:
Benevolent on Facebook – http://facebook.com/benevolent.band
Benevolent on Twitter – http://twitter.com/benevolent_band
Download Divided EP for FREE – http://benevolent.bandcamp.com
Hadi on Twitter – http://twitter.com/hadi_benevolent

NADER SADEK Recommends His Top Extreme Metal Songs

2012-01-23T10:04:00.000-08:00

[Left: Nader Sadek, Right: Rune Eriksen]

Heavy metal and art have always found themselves at crossroads, since heavy metal tends to be very expressive, it lends a hand to a darker side of creativity.

Nader Sadek last year released his debut full length album titled "In The Flesh" that's been receiving extremely positive reviews and great reception from fans. The album's conceptual theme centers around man's obsession with oil, and how we're basically enslaving ourselves to a substance originating from dead animals and vegetation.

To help bring his vision to fruition, Nader Sadek brought in an array of musicians to help him pump this steam roller of an album into full speed. The album features Steve Tucker (EX-Morbid Angel), Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy), and Rune Eriksen (aka Blasphemer of Mayhem), as well as guest spots by notable artists such as; Attila Csihar, Travis Ryan, Tony Norman, Mike Lerner, Nick McMaster, and Destructhor.

Nader Sadek is also a highly reputed visual artist. Some of his most popular and visually striking stage settings and costumes were acquired by the likes of black metal heavy weights Mayhem and drone icons Sun O))).

Since we're a middle eastern based blog, Nader Sadek ranks up high with us for his various achievements on the international metal scene. And with that we thought it would be awesome to get his personal recommendations for his top extreme metal songs.

Make sure to visit the official Nader Sadek website at: nadersadek.com for more information on how to order a copy of "In The Flesh."

[Ed note: There was also one more song that Nader really wanted to include on the list but unfortunately it was not available anywhere online for free streaming. The song is by Internecine and is called Hallowed Guidance. You can preview the track here.]

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

It's been another whole year down the barrel for us old folks at Metality.

Since the site's launch in 2008; our aim is to bridge the gap between middle eastern and international metal. The best part about it is the amount of support we received since day one. Till this day, I am more than grateful to each and every person that took the time to answer an interview, or work on a project.

To the amazing dudes that contribute to the blog. None of this would've happened without your true support!

There's of course the times where you feel so stressed out that you can't be bothered to put up another post (and when you don't get paid to do this) the motivation easily slips when you find hipsters and trolls nagging. But enough with all this immature crap.

Thank you for your continued support. We hope to see you all here in 2012.

Happy mother f'ing new year!

-IRoar
(Founder/Editor)

Metal Hammer Presents: Defenders of the Faith III (2011 Tour) [Show Review]

2011-12-22T03:16:00.000-08:00

Line Up: Trivium (headliners), In Flames, Ghost, Rise to Remain, Insense

Venue: O2 Brixton Academy, London, UK

Date: 4th of December 2011

Reviewer: Tristan French

Only one thing was going through my head as I boarded the tube to Brixton on the evening of the 4th of December 2011, that I would finally be able to see the band that I’d be waiting to see since I was 13 years old, I speak of course of the mighty Trivium. All that I can tell you is, that its been well worth the wait, as the Floridian foursome have returned not only with their crushing new record, but have shown that they are ready to take their place as one of the best live bands to ever grace the stage.

Of course, I’ll get to that later, there’s still another 4 bands to go through. After depositing our winter wear in the cloakroom (what? London’s bloody freezing in December!) my comrades and I (including former Shotgun Enema bassist Luke McIntosh) headed straight for the front. Little did we know, that we had the best seats in the house. As the hall began to fill, the intro to Insense’s opening track “Death For Me, Death For You” crept slowly, before erupting into some of the heaviest playing I’ve ever heard. Accompanying their short set with skillful drumming at the hands of Truls Haugen, brutal riffs, great clean sections, epic bass playing (I thought the strings were about to snap half way through) provided by Ola S. Hana, all garnished by vocalist and frontman Tommy Hjelm’s surprisingly varied vocal range. Needless to say, a great warm up and a sign of things to come later on.

Next up, were up and coming British (the only British band of the bill I might add) metalcore act, Rise to Remain. These boys redefined the genre with their debut record “City of Vultures”, and their live act reflects this just as much. As soon as the band literally exploded onto the stage with opener “The Serpent” (after choosing to soundcheck themselves as opposed to having technicians do it) Brixton erupted into a maelstrom of movement, with the band transferring all of their excitement to the crowd. Although their set was short, the band managed to leave a lasting impression on the audience, with frontman Austin Dickenson proving that crowd control clearly runs in the family (even going as far as to jump into the audience and crowdsurf over us!). Ending the set with “Nothing Left” and the resinous “Bridges Will Burn” left echoes ringing throughout the O2 Brixton, another indicator that Rise to Remain are released, and they’re out for blood!

As Rise to Remain left the stage, taking the appropriate time to thank us, the obscurity and mystery began, as a series of synthethic stain glass windows descended from the ceiling. As the smell of incense filled the room, we all knew who were coming next, Sweden’s foremost rock’n’roll/satanic crossover band, Ghost. As the Nameless Ghouls took their positions during a fairly ominous and shrouded opening, frontman, or should I say our sermon leader, Papa Emeritus made his grand entrance, accompanied by an incense burner (explaining the earlier scent). Honestly, for the majority of their set, the entire Brixton Academy stood completely still, in awe of the psychadellic theatrical performance that is Ghost. Ghost have appeared to be bringing back what was left by Alice Cooper, for

metal as a form of theatre. Every hand gesture put forward by Emeritus was done so with grace and precision, even going as far as to wander across the stage flicking his hands at us, placing us effectively under his spell. Ending their set with their hit “Ritual” Ghost left the stage as they came on, mysteriously and calmly, leaving us to gawk at what had just transpired.

The next band of the evening need no introduction. I speak of course of the legendary In Flames. The production that came with this show was a clear display that In Flames are a band that have clearly paid their dues, with an elaborate light show encompassing the entire setlist (which I’ll admit...kind of distracted from the music at times, given that everyone except frontman Anders Friden was a silhouette). Nonetheless, the set was riddled with tracks from the new album, including the catchy title track “Sounds of a Playground Fading,” lead single and fist pumping “Deliver Us”, the slow and sludgy “All For Me”, the fast paced heart racer “Fear is the Weakness” and of course recent single “Where the Dead Ships Dwell.” The highlight of this for me, were guitarists Bjorn Gelotte and Niclas Engelin’s brilliant exchanges and harmonies, clearly showing their brilliant chemistry and dynamic. Friden’s humour also shined through, clearly stating that he “loved us all” and upon seeing the “NO CROWDSURFING” signs, he stated that he “Didn’t like them.” Ending the set with hits “The Quiet Place”, “Cloud Connected” and “Take This Life” , left London in a feral state of mind , and demonstrated once again why In Flames are as revered as they are within the metal world

With four bands having performed, the time came for the main event. As the eerie knells of “Capsizing the Sea” filled the venue, we all knew what song that the mighty Trivium would open with. Waiting just the right amount of time before making their entrance, frontman Mattew K. Heafy poised himself carefully above the microphone before letting out a roar of “IN WAVES!” amplified ten fold as the anticipating London crowd sang (or should I say growled) along. Trivium’s set was perfectly balanced and didn’t contain a single low point for me (being the massive fanboy that I am) and being right the front was truly a blessing. After the opening track, Trivium burst straight into Ascendancy territory playing both “Drowned and Torn Asunder” and “A Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation”, furiously darting across the stage in order to please each and every section of the crowd. The energy given off by the band was phenomenal, and this was only three songs in! Matt Heafy’s addresses to the crowd never failed to inspire (especially when it came time to challenge us to be better than Manchester!). The set contained old favorites such as “Like Light to the Flies”, “Dying In Your Arms”, “The Deceived”, a song never played in London before, “Departure”, and of course the old single “Pull Harder on the Strings of Your Martyr” which consequently sent the entire crowd into a frenzy as we sang in unison. Of course songs from Trivium’s latest made it as well, with songs such as “Black”, “Dusk Dismantled” and “Caustic are the Ties That Bind” really showing off the bands return to form, through brilliant guitar exchanges between Heafy and co-guitarist Corey Beaulieu. The album’s latest single “Built to Fall” was the icing on the cake to this already awesome set. Of course, we couldn’t get away without a bit of shogun with “Kirisute Gomen” really lowering the tone as the 7-string guitars were unleashed. This was accompanied by the union inspiring “Down from the Sky”, which lead to a chorus of “heys!” and show closer “Throes of Perdition” before which Heafy once again instructed us to “Fucking Explode!” after stating that they would always return to London. After a series of pick throwings

(caught one! Huzzah!) and a truly triumphant bow, it was clear to all of us that a band that had burst onto the metal scene at such a young age, Heafy only being 17 when Ascendancy was released, had truly come into their own and were ready to take their place in the spotlight.

Needless to say, I remained encapsulated (as well as hypnotized by the pick) on my train journey home. Defenders of the Faith III is a gig that I won’t soon forget, and has left me in anticipation of seeing Trivium again.

Ratings for the night:

Insense: 8/10

Rise to Remain: 9.5/10

Ghost: 9.5/10

In Flames: 9/10

Trivium: 9.99/10 (Hey, I’m biased, what can you do?!)

LIVARKAHIL - Signs of Decay [Review]

2011-11-13T14:46:00.000-08:00

Genre: Death Metal

Label: Listenable Records

Release-date: September 26th, 2011

Reviewer: Kareem Chehayeb

From Paris, France, Livarkahil deliver one of the heaviest sounds I have heard in a very long time. Their newly released album, Signs of Decay, is one of the heaviest albums I've listened to in a very long time. I don't really know how else to describe it. Think of old Mastodon and Gojira infused with Behemoth and Vader. The band consists of Herr Krauss (HK) on vocals, Traume and Kaiin on guitars, Neil on bass, and Skvm on drums.

After the sinister build up of the short intro track, "In Nomine Patris", "When Hell Is Near" opens up with pounding drums and heavy riffs accompanied by gang chants and HK's ground-shaking growls. The song is is absolutely chaotic and Livarkahil mean business from start to finish. The amount of energy fueled into the song is unbelievable (and the same goes for the other songs). I also have to give credit to Traume and Kaiin on their great guitar work. The riffs are solid and the guitar solo in this song is very reminiscent to Nergal's work from Behemoth.

The next track, Quiet Hersey, has a faster build up, and Skvm really shows his technical ability as a drummer. The double bass work is incredible, and his blastbeats are out of this world. Kudos to the guitarists once again for the beautiful lead work with a simple and melodic solo adding some "color" to the song.

Art of Bleeding is the longest track, at 6:02 minutes. HK shows his vocal range and versatility; all I can say is that I'm VERY impressed. This has to apply to the rest of the musicians too. This song is very dynamic, and has so many different things going on! I really enjoyed this track.

We Hail the Victory is an instrumental track, but it's still great. The melodies are beautiful, and behind them a tight rhythmic unit. There are various parts in the song with some French dialogue in the background. All in all, it sounds like an incredibly sinister song. It's one of my favorites, even though we (unfortunately) don't get to hear HK's ground-shaking growls.

Heaven Shall Fall is another one worth listening to. It's one of the heaviest tracks on there, and as all the other tracks, it has pounding drums, heavy riffs, insane vocals, and technicality all around!

The Flesh of All Damned is a unique track, as it tones down the brutality (just a little bit) and gives way to some darker and melodic movements within the song!

I really enjoyed this album. It really is refreshing to hear a band that does not overdo with progressive elements, because it is definitely becoming a trend these days. On the other hand, I think the band can diversify with their sound just a little bit, perhaps with the keys they're playing in. Livarkahil are on their way though, and being signed to Listenable Records and releasing this tight album, expect to hear more from them soon. I highly recommend listening to this album!

Favorite tracks:
Art of Bleeding
We Hail the Victory
Signs of Decay

I give this album a 7.5/10

Click here to order "Signs of Decay"

EAST OF THE WALL: Full Album Streaming Via BrooklynVegan

2011-10-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
New Jersey tech-metal-manglers EAST OF THE WALL this week commence their month-long U.S. tour in support of their latest full-length, The Apologist. The quintet set it off with three record release events in their usual stomping grounds between the coast of New Jersey and New York City, including a show at The Saint in Asbury Park, a CMJ-related show in Brooklyn and an in-store performance at Vintage Vinyl in Fords.

Promoting the kickoff of the tour, BrooklynVegan is now streaming The Apologist in its entirety RIGHT HERE.

EAST OF THE WALL Fall 2011 Tour:
10/21/2011 The Saint - Asbury Park, NJ [record release] w/ Abacinate, The Ghost In Black And White
10/22/2011 Union Pool - Brooklyn, NY [record release/CMJ event] w/ Dysrhythmia, Meek Is Murder, City of Ships
10/24/2011 Vintage Vinyl - Fords, NJ [record release]
10/25/2011 Gooski's - Pittsburg, PA w/ Tidal Arms, Sistered
10/26/2011 Annabell’s Bar & Lounge - Akron, OH w/ Tidal Arms, Eagle Claw
10/27/2011 ***Booking help needed*** Indianapolis/Fort Wayne, IN or Detroit, MI w/ Tidal Arms
10/28/2011 Memories - Chicago, IL w/ Tidal Arms, Arbogast, Without Waves, Heaving Mass, Dirt Hog
10/29/2011 Stages Live - Waterloo, IA w/ Iron Thrones, Astral Space, Anno Domine
10/30/2011 Triple Rock Social Club - Minneapolis, MN w/ Iron Thrones, Earthrise
10/31/2011 The New Direction - Fargo, ND w/ Iron Thrones
11/01/2011 Latitude 44 - Sioux Falls, SD
11/02/2011 The Bourbon Theater - Lincoln, NE w/ Masses
11/03/2011 Old Curtis Street Bar - Denver, CO w/ Goes Cube, Adai, Iron Horse
11/04/2011 Rock Bottom Bar - Rock Springs, WY w/ American Apogee, Cellar Door Protocol
11/05/2011 Burt's Tiki Lounge - Salt Lake City, UT w/ American Apogee, Cellar Door Protocol
11/06/2011 Jub Jub's Thirst Parlor - Reno, NV w/ Cranium, Knightfall
11/07/2011 ***Booking help needed*** San Francisco/Oakland/Sacramento/Bakersfield, CA w/ Goes Cube
11/08/2011 Coconuts - Capistrano Beach, CA w/ Black Sheep Wall, White Arms of Athena, Pigeonwing
11/09/2011 Vacation Vinyl - Los Angeles, CA (early show)
11/09/2011 Three Clubs - Los Angeles, CA w/ Black Sheep Wall, White Arms Of Athena
11/10/2011 TBA - Phoenix, AZ w/ White Arms Of Athena
11/11/2011 Warehouse 21 - Albuquerque, NM w/ White Arms Of Athena
11/12/2011 ***Booking help needed*** Amarillo/Lubbock, TX w/ White Arms Of Athena
11/13/2011 The Door - Dallas, TX w/ White Arms of Athena, Baring Teeth, Lizard Professor
11/14/2011 ***Booking help needed***- Little Rock, AR w/ White Arms Of Athena
11/15/2011 The Squeaky Lizard - Hattiesburg, MS w/ Quiet Hands, Ostrov
11/16/2011 Siberia - New Orleans, LA w/ Lazarus Heart
11/17/2011 The Farside - Tallahassee, FL w/ Dickicker
11/18/2011 Cool Hand Luc's - Fort Myers, FL w/ Dickkicker, Enchiridion, Feanor
11/19/2011 Will's Pub - Orlando w/ Dickicker, Ether, With My Bear Hands, Narcissist
11/20/2011 Club 2 Ten - Savannah, GA w/ Meek Is Murder, Howler, Indian Giver
11/21/2011 The Milestone - Charlotte, NC w/ Meek Is Murder, Mr. Invisible
11/22/2011 Strange Matter - Richmond, VA w/ Meek Is Murder, Hex Machine

UNEARTH: New iTunes App Unveiled!

2011-10-23T05:14:00.000-07:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
Massachusetts molten metal troupe UNEARTH are excited to unveil a new iTunes app! Created by Rebel Monster Inc., the app will keep fans up to date on everything UNEARTH including news, tour info, bios, new merch and more! Additionally, push notifications from the band will let you know what's going on before anyone else! Check out the free app at THIS LOCATION.

Commented frontman Trevor Phipps:

"We wanted to design a free app for our fans that is useful and informative. The one that our friends at Rebel Monster put together gives you breaking news, tour dates, sound clips from all of our albums, full streaming songs in our 'radio' icon, photos, webstore access, Twitter and Facebook feeds, YouTube channel, bio info and more! We didn't want to half ass it and put out a useless app. This one is everything you need from UNEARTH besides seeing the band live! It's simple to use and it is FREE, so why not check it out?"

UNEARTH will kick off their co-headlining trek with Chimaira next month. The band will be touring in support of their fifth full-length, Darkness in the Light, released this past summer via Metal Blade Records.

UNEARTH/CHIMAIRA tour
with Skeletonwitch & Molotov Solution:
11/13/2011 The Opera House - Toronto, ON
11/14/2011 Club Soda - Montreal, QC
11/16/2011 Webster Theatre - Hartford, CT
11/17/2011 The Chance - Poughkeepsie, NY
11/18/2011 Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ
11/19/2011 Wally’s Pub - Hampton Beach, NH
11/20/2011 JAXX - Springfield, VA
11/21/2011 The Orange Peel - Asheville, NC
11/22/2011 Lincoln Theater - Raleigh, NC
11/23/2011 House Of Blues - Myrtle Beach, SC
11/25/2011 Revolution - Ft. Lauderdale, FL
11/26/2011 State Theatre - St. Petersburg, FL
11/27/2011 Freebird Live - Jacksonville, FL
11/29/2011 Emo’s - Austin, TX
11/30/2011 Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK
12/01/2011 Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM*
12/02/2011 Mesa Theater & Club - Grand Junction, CO
12/03/2011 The Black Sheep - Colorado Springs, CO*
12/04/2011 Top Deck - Farmington, NM
12/05/2011 The Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ*
12/07/2011 Glass House - Pomona, CA*
12/08/2011 Knitting Factory - Reno, NV
12/09/2011 Knitting Factory - Boise, ID
12/10/2011 Knitting Factory - Spokane, WA*
12/11/2011 The Republik - Calgary, AB
12/12/2011 Starlite - Edmonton, AB
12/14/2011 Pyramid Cabaret - Winnipeg, MB
12/16/2011 Wheelhouse - Cedar Falls, IA
12/17/2011 The Barrymore Theater - Madison, WI
12/18/2011 The Intersection - Grand Rapids, MI
12/19/2011 TBA - Buffalo, NY (No Chimaira)
* Skeletonwitch will not be appearing on these dates