METALITY.Net | Heavy Metal News, Reviews, Interviews, and Videos

DECAPITATED Video Shoot: Behind-The-Scenes Photos Available

2012-02-19T11:06:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Behind-the-scenes photos from DECAPITATED’s video shoot for the song “Pest” can be viewed at this location. The shoot took place on Friday, February 10th with Grupa 13 (BEHEMOTH, ELUVEITIE, SONATA ARCTICA) in charge of production; Dariusz Szermanowicz is the director.

“Pest” is the seventh track off of 2011’s Carnival Is Forever album, which debuted at #11 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart last July and captured the #43 position on GuitarWorld.com’s “Top 50 Albums of 2011” list.

DECAPITATED will be the opening band on “The Ophidian Trek” tour with headliners MESHUGGAH and direct supporters Baroness, which launches April 29th.

Confirmed dates are:

4/29/12 House of Blues - Houston, TX
4/30/12 House of Blues - Dallas, TX
5/01/12 Emo’s - Austin, TX
5/03/12 Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ
5/04/12 House of Blues - Anaheim, CA
5/05/12 House of Blues - Hollywood, CA
5/06/12 The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA
5/08/12 Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, B.C. - CANADA
5/09/12 Showbox Sodo - Seattle, WA
5/11/12 Odgen Theatre - Denver, CO
5/13/12 First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
5/15/12 House of Blues - Chicago, IL
5/16/12 St. Andrews Hall - Detroit, MI
5/17/12 Sound Academy - Toronto, ON - CANADA
5/18/12 Theatre of the Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA
5/19/12 Palladium - Worcester, MA
5/20/12 Olympia de Montreal - Montreal, QUE - CANADA
5/22/12 The Fillmore - Silver Springs, MD
5/23/12 Terminal 5 – New York, NY

CHRIS JERICHO To Host REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS For The Third Time

2012-02-19T09:25:00.000-08:00

FOZZY frontman and WWE superstar CHRIS JERICHO will be hosting the Revolver Golden Gods for the third time.
They say "third time's a charm". And I'm definitely a fan of Jericho; been since his WCW days when he used to properly apply the 'Walls of Jericho.' So here's to hoping this one's going to be even crazier than previous award shows.

Chris Jericho's band FOZZY was recently signed to Century Media; a move that shows that "the undisputed champion" is looking to delve into more music-related territory. Even though he returned to WWE RAW not too long ago, it seems that he'll be balancing his schedule between his dates with FOZZY and his dates in the ring. (Jericho will be competing at the upcoming Elimination Chamber against 5 other wrestlers for the WWE heavyweight championship belt tonight in Milwaukee, Wisconsin).

FOZZY is currently recording their Century Media debut, set for release in summer 2012.

The REVOLVER GOLDEN GODS will be broadcast LIVE for the first time via XBOX Live on April 11th, featuring performance by Marilyn Manson, Slash and Evanscence. For more information, visit: Goldengodsawards.com

Click here to find out how to catch the live stream

[Source: Revolver]

DEFTONES' Chi Cheng Emerging From 3 Year Coma

2012-02-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

Following a tragic car accident, DEFTONES bassist Chi Cheng entered into a coma for over 3 years. His current state is improving, progressing from unconscious to partially conscious state. As he is now able to move his leg when commanded but is still otherwise unable to move or speak aside from being able to make grunting noises since last October.

Cheng's family is still in a tough situation, after a benefit concert and single released; the family only has $17,495 of the $250,000 that they need to hopefully give Chi Cheng a full recovery.

Find out how you can help by visiting the official benefit site set-up for Cheng (http://oneloveforchi.com).

[Source: MetalUnderground]

Listen To 62 Seconds of New GOD FORBID

2012-02-19T08:33:00.000-08:00

GOD FORBID has been hard at work recording their follow-up to 2009's riffathon "Earthsblood."

The band's debut for Victory Records, titled "Equilibrium" (out March 26th) will be feature “some of the catchiest, most melodic songs [the band has] ever written.” says vocalist/guitarist Doc Coyle.

[Source: Blabbermouth]

SLASH Unveils Cover For Upcoming Solo Album

2012-02-19T08:08:00.000-08:00

Metal's favorite top-hatted shredder, SLASH, has revealed the cover art for his second full length album which will feature Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators.

The album will be produced once again by Eric Valentine, who has worked with SLASH on his previous record as well.

“I love how diverse his tastes were,” Slash said of working with Valentine on his previous solo record. “Somehow he just managed to catch on [to] exactly what was going on in my head. So we just clicked right away.”

On collaborating with multiple musicians on his records, Slash tells Rolling Stone:

“I’m a band guy,” “I still have my name on the marquee and everything, but I’m just not a dictator, I don’t want to rule anything. I like to hear what other people’s ideas are and so on and so forth.”

Slash is also confirmed to re-unite with his former band GUNS N' ROSES for their induction into the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame on April 14th in Cleveland, Ohio.

[Source: Loudwire.com]

UAE-Based Extreme Metal Band BENEVOLENT to Feature ANDOLS HERRICK On Upcoming Debut Full Length Album

2012-02-17T16:33:00.005-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

UAE-based metallers Benevolent are in the recording process for their upcoming debut full length album, the band is adding drum-icon Andols Herrick (ex-Chimaira) as a featured musician on the album to record one track on the record. Hadi Sarieddine, the band co-founder and lead guitarist states "It is pretty crazy thinking that Andols Herrick is going to be drumming on one of our songs; if I go back in time and tell past-me that this was happening I'd probably get a pretty sarcastic reaction." He added "The last couple of years since we started the band have been absolutely insanely great for us; getting such great reviews for the debut record, getting signed to Spellbind Records, and now this? I can't think that things could be any better for the band, I'm really proud of how things are coming together"

Andols Herrick commented on his work with Benevolent and how this all came together and stated "I was approached by Hadi Sarieddine awhile back about the possibility of tracking drums for Benevolent. I was quite impressed with the quality of the music and vocals."

"I love having the opportunity to work with a great band, who happens to represent the Middle East metal scene very well. I do know it is very vibrant having had the pleasure of performing with Chimaira at the Desert Rock Festival in Dubai back in 2009."

The band hit the Middle East scene with strong waves with the release of their debut EP titled DIVIDED in the year 2010, placing the band as the top names in the metal scene on regional levels garnering fans across the world as well in Europe, USA, Japan and Asia, and Oceania. Benevolent was signed to Spellbind Records in September of 2011 (alongside label mates and Middle East metal icons Nervecell).

The band has provided previous information to the press about the direction of the next album as being a technical, dark, and progressive album that picks up where Divided left off whilst expanding the band's sound identity. Hadi commented on the material further saying "It's definitely a lot more technical than Divided; the songs have a lot going on and while it preserves that sound that we've created in our debut EP this is a step forward on many levels and it tells a story about lots of dark themes with the lyrical and instrumental direction on the album."

As for the specific song that Andols Herrick is recording, Andols commented stating "This song presented numerous rhythmic challenges as I was learning it. If you were a drummer with limited music theory experience, I'd just say "Good luck trying to learn it!" The song is loaded with "over the bar line" guitar riffs, and I found myself, on occasion, discovering some of my transcriptions would be a sixteenth note off here or there!"

The band is set out to release the debut full length through Spellbind Records in the spring of 2012, and will be performing across the Middle East and beyond to promote the new release.

On a final note, the band's frontman and co-founder, Fadi Sarieddine, stated "We all can't wait to share this album with the world; I believe we have a very strong set of new songs and it's going to be great to share the new stuff with the world. Once the album is done, it will be the beginning of the next phase of this observation's life cycle, and that is to get it all out there to as many listeners as possible worldwide; we're excited and we absolutely cannot wait!"

To keep up with the band's news and updates be sure to check out their official pages on the links below: (ALSO, BE SURE TO DOWNLOAD THE BAND'S DEBUT EP WHICH IS AVAILABLE ON FREE DOWNLOAD HERE http://benevolent.bandcamp.com)

<a href="http://benevolent.bandcamp.com/album/divided-ep">Divided EP by Benevolent</a>

http://www.facebook.com/benevolent.band
http://www.twitter.com/benevolent_twitter
http://benevolent.bandcamp.com

SMOULDERING IN FORGOTTEN To Support MELECHESH Live In Dubai!

2012-02-16T07:00:00.005-08:00

Extreme metallers SMOULDERING IN FORGOTTEN have been confirmed as the first of 2 opening acts for MELECHESH's upcoming headlining show in Dubai, UAE on April 20th at the 5th anniversary of Holy Noise.

For more information, visit the event's official page.

SONS OF AEON Album Update

2012-02-15T03:33:00.004-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Finnish metal act SONS OF AEON (featuring members of GHOST BRIGADE, SWALLOW THE SUN, CODE FOR SILENCE and ENDSTAND) have pretty much finished the writing process for their Lifeforce Records debut album, which is set to be released later this year.

Read the following update from guitarist Tapio Vartiainen:

"It's an odd case, this Sons Of Aeon. Here I sit and try to write news about our debut album and to start with, I don't really even know how to describe our sound to strangers.

There's so much different things going on...it's tricky to find the right words that'd make the songs justice. It's very intense and it's very musical, that's for sure.

I think that our love for 90's Death Metal shines through in most songs but there's also a lot of these more moody, melancholic passages and even some Hardcore/Punk touches. And to me, those elements really make all the difference. It's an interesting blend of styles and strangely, it all makes sense.

Anyway, the songwriting process is now done and we're starting the drum recordings at the end of May. So if all goes well we should have the finished album in our hands some time during the summer. To say we're excited and proud about all this would be an understatement. We can't fucking wait to get this album done."

www.facebook.com/sonsofaeon
www.sonsofaeon.net

"10 Perfectly Inappropriate Songs For Valentine's Day"

2012-02-14T06:29:00.014-08:00

[Photo credit: F**k The World]

Today's the one day in the whole year where you're reminded to love your spouse. To cherish your every moment of living together; it's a celebration of love universally. While many holidays tend to cater to a certain group of people. VD is one of the only times in the year where everyone regardless of race, religion, preferred type of cheese, can all come together and celebrate a common emotion...Love.

Off course with all that said, I'm a huge fan of being inappropriate. It's been a hobby since I used to stare down my 7th grade French teacher's blouse. That was the only year where I scored a considerably high grade in French; today, besides the common greetings you learn in every language course and how to say "My name is -penis-" I can not form a full sentence in french without being diagnosed as retarded to some degree. "omelette au fromage?"

After reading NO CLEAN SINGING's highly insightful and stupendously hilarious romantic advice column for Valentine's Day (if you haven't done so already, you need to "like" their facebook page....Like, now!). I felt inspired enough to sit down (I mean reach for the computer) to write a post about 10 songs that would make for a good "top ten inappropriate songs for VD" all in the name of being disturbingly funniez.

The following videos are in ascending order. Happy Valentine's Day!

[Ed note: Please use the arrow keys to navigate through songs, since album art is currently unavailable.]

Chalice Of Doom To Record New Album

2012-02-14T05:11:00.004-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Jordanian melodic/death metal band CHALICE OF DOOM will start recording their second full-length album this summer. The album will be self mixed and masted by the band. More news about the credits of the album will be announced later on. The album will contain a more melodic performance, with a more gloomy/doomy sound.

"We want to thank all the people that supported us and helped us spreading our words, we hope that you will like the upcoming album."

The band's debut album "Immemorial Nightfall" was released last year by Satanarsa Records; which is available for order through this link:
http://stn-r.narod.ru/stn.html

Australian Metallers ELYSIAN Detail Plans for Debut Album ‘Wires of Creation’

2012-02-14T01:47:00.004-08:00

In recent years the Australian metal scene has exploded wildly onto the worldwide stage with bands such as Karnivool, Dead Letter Circus, Psycroptic and Circles all turning international heads; the latest band to want a piece of the pie is Melbourne based melodic deathers ELYSIAN, who are set to release their aggressively punchy debut album, ‘Wires of Creation’, worldwide on March 26. The release storms its way through eleven tracks of hook laden, flowing dark melodies, technical solo interludes and snarlingly evil vocal work.

Guitarist Gabe Hutchinson comments: “Our main goal was to create a dynamic experience from start to finish whilst maintaining heavy songs. Overall it's a really heavy melodic death album but at times soars into things like an instrumental Pink Floyd-esque song with an electronic feel or a intricate percussive section. As a band, we grew up listening to music that incorporated acoustic ballads with blazing shred songs all in the one album, and it wasn't called progressive; it was called a good album. Some bands aim to have their songs sound disjointed by dramatically switching between genres; that’s not what we have done, the whole album flows, it attacks and it releases, its aggressive but gives you time to breath and take it in.”

A teaser song 'Mans Design' taken from ‘‘Wires of Creation’ can be heard here and the complete track-listing for the album is below. (after the break)

Wires of Creation track-listing:
1) Mans Design
2) Sigma
3) Climb from Fear
4) Eternal Breath
5) Sense Offender
6) The Gate
7) Play the Hand
8) Calming the Storm (instrumental)
9) Conquest
10) Machine
11) A Cry from Helplessness
I. Remorse
II. The choice
III. The Fall

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ELYSIAN
https://www.facebook.com/ElysianMetal

[The band are currently working on a video and will then hit the road in April with an Australian tour in support of their album. ELYSIAN will also support Arch Enemy in Melbourne on April 31.]

FEAR FACTORY Announce New Bassist

2012-02-14T00:54:00.004-08:00

Last week former Chimaira bassist Matt DeVries announced that he's leaving Six Feet Under after a short stint with the band.
Now Fear Factory has announced their new bassist, and turns out it's none other than Matt DeVries.

Read the official press release after the break:

[Ed note: another announcement concerning full details about the band's new album should be revealed in the coming week.]

"FEAR FACTORY today confirm Matt DeVries as the band’s new bass player. DeVries, previously of Chimaira and most recently Six Feet Under, joins the band replacing Byron Stroud. The announcement comes as the band continues work on their upcoming new album, planned for release early Summer. The album is currently being mixed in Canada by Greg Reely while artwork for the album’s packaging is nearly complete.

DeVries comments: “I have been asked by Dino and Burton to join one of my favorite bands. I have been a fan of
FEAR FACTORY since 1992 and I could not be more excited to be part of this incredible band. We have shared the stage many times together and now I’m beyond stoked to be on the same stage playing together. Thank you to all my fans worldwide for sticking by me and I will be seeing you all on the road very soon.”

Guitarist Dino Cazares and vocalist Burton C. Bell note: “We are very excited to have Matt playing bass for FEAR FACTORY. We feel he is a great addition to our touring lineup. He has been a friend for a very long time and he’s a great musician who will be a perfect instrument in the FF machine.”

FEAR FACTORY’s new album will follow 2010’s highly regarded Mechanize. Said Blabbermouth of the record, “this is the album fans have been waiting for…a fiery and evolved rebirth of the band that changed metal in the ‘90s.” Revolver Magazine called Mechanize, “one of the best albums of the band’s career. Its combination of new-wave melody, rapid-fire aggression, and electronic ambiance sounds as fresh today as FEAR FACTORY did nearly 20 years ago. Call it the soul of their new machine,” while Decibel Magazine added, “FEAR FACTORY are back and beyond intact.”

Specific details with regards to FEAR FACTORY’s new album are expected to be released in the coming week.

http://www.facebook.com/fearfactory
http://candlelightrecordsusa.com"

AVENGED SEVENFOLD To Perform In The UAE on May 4th

2012-02-14T00:09:00.005-08:00

AVENGED SEVENFOLD announced that they will be performing in the UAE on May 4th.
The official press release states that the band will be performing in Dubai, while the location states that the event will be held at Flash Forum, located in Abu Dhabi.

Read the official press release after the break:

"Avenged Sevenfold announced today that they will be returning to the Far and Middle East beginning April 16th in Tokyo, Japan, for a tour that will culminate in a special show in Dubai, UAE on May 4th.

“We are excited to go back to the Far and Middle East,” said Avenged Sevenfold front man M. Shadows. "We played to some of the most amazing crowds when we toured the album there, and we can't wait to bring our live show back to our friends in those regions.”

Long time friends Metallica have asked Avenged Sevenfold to perform at the first ever Orion Music + More at Bader Field in Atlantic City, NJ, on June 24th. M. Shadows had this to say: "We really hadn't planned to play the United States in 2012. But after Lars called to describe their plans for Orion and asked us to join them, we decided there's no way we would miss it." The band toured with Metallica in 2006 as part of Metallica’s “Escape From The Studio Tour” and that year M. Shadows and Metallica’s James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich were featured together on the cover of Revolver Magazine. 3 years later, Avenged Sevenfold toured with Metallica on their “World Magnetic” tour.

In July 2010, Avenged Sevenfold released their fifth studio album Nightmare, which earned the band its highest-ever debut on the Billboard album chart when it bowed at No. 1 and topped the Rock, Hard Rock, and Digital charts. It has been certified gold by the RIAA and has scanned upwards of 660,000 units. The album spawned three hit singles – the gold-certified singles “Nightmare” and “Welcome To The Family,” and “So Far Away” – each of which peaked at Number 1 on the Media Base Active Rock chart. The title track was the most-played current song at Media Base Active Rock for 2010. Avenged Sevenfold have toured incessantly on their “Buried Alive” and “Welcome to the Family” tours selling out arenas around the world. They also headlined the Uproar Tour and the first annual Carolina Rebellion Festival in 2011 where the band played to a sold-out crowd of over 30,000 fans. The band also toured Iraq with the USO and has played to nearly 1,000,000 people in the last two years. Their breakout album City of Evil and the Live In The LBC DVD have both been certified platinum and the band’s self-titled album has been certified gold.

APRIL

16th Tokyo, Japan Zepp
18th Nagoya, Japan Diamond Hall
19th Osaka, Japan Hatch
22nd Taipei, Taiwan Taipei University Auditorium
24th Bangkok, Thailand Thunder Dome
26th Manila, Philippines Araneta
28th Singapore The Coliseum @ Hard Rock Hotel
29th Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Stadium Negara

MAY

1st Jakarta, Indonesia Carnaval Beach
4th Dubai, UAE Flash Forum"

[Via: Have You Scene That?]

IWRESTLEDABEARONCE Confirmed For VANS WARPED TOUR 2012

2012-02-13T07:04:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Another handful of acts playing Vans Warped Tour 2012 has just been announced and IWRESTLEDABEARONCE will be on the full tour from June 16 - August 6. "After how much fun we had in 2010, we're beyond stoked to head out on Warped again!" says guitarist Steven Bradley. "Warped crowds are amazing and doing signings every day and meeting everybody rules. Cannot wait!" IWRESTLEDABEARONCE will join CHELSEA GRIN, MEMPHIS MAY FIRE, SENSES FAIL, SLEEPING WITH SIRENS and a number of other artists that will be revealed shortly. Pre-sale tickets for the tour will be available on April 6, 2012. Fans should check www.vanswarpedtour.com for line up announcements and other updates.

Prior to the Vans Warped Tour dates, IWRESTLEDABEARONCE will be heading out with Molotov Solution, Glass Cloud and The Greenery for the "Road To Metal Fest" tour leading up to and following their appearance on the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival on April 21.

IWRESTLEDABEARONCE recently released their sophomore album, Ruining It For Everybody which debuted at #75 on the Top 200 Billboard Charts. Highlighting both chilling screams and soothing melodies from vocalist Krysta Cameron, IWRESTLEDABEARONCE has mastered the combination of heavy music and glitch electronics. As put by Crave Online, "Iwrestledabearonce have created a shimmering piece of artistic genius." The music video for the track "You Know That Ain't Them Dogs' Real Voices" can be seen here.

For more information on IWRESTLEDABEARONCE, please visit:
www.iwrestledabearonce.com
www.facebook.com/iwrestledabearonce
www.twitter.com/iwabo
www.centurymedia.com

"Road To Metal Fest" Tour Dates:
4/16 - Oklahoma City, OK @ Conservatory
4/17 - Memphis, TN @ New Daisy Theater
4/18 - Knoxville, TN @ Valarium
4/20 - Springfield, VA @ Empire
4/21 - Worcester, MA @ New England Metal and Hardcore Festival @ The Palladium
4/23 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Altar Bar
4/24 - Evansville, IN @ Boney Junes
4/25 - Bloomington, IL @ The Castle Theater
4/26 - Des Moines, IA @ Vaudeville Mews
4/27 - Iowa City, IA @ Blue Moose
4/29 - Denver, CO @ Marquis Theatre
4/30 - Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad
5/01 - Flagstaff, AZ @ Cinnabar

Vans Warped Tour Dates:
6/16 - Salt Lake City, UT
6/17 - Denver, CO
6/20 - Las Vegas, NV
6/21 - Irvine, CA
6/22 - Pomona, CA
6/23 - San Francisco, CA
6/24 - Ventura, CA
6/27 - San Diego, CA
6/28 - Phoenix, AZ
6/29 - Las Cruces, NM
6/30 - San Antonio, TX
7/1 - Houston, TX
7/3 - Dallas, TX
7/5 - Saint Louis, MO
7/6 - Detroit, MI
7/7 - Chicago, IL
7/8 - Minneapolis, MN
7/9 - Kansas City, MO
7/10 - Indianapolis, IN
7/11 - Cleveland, OH
7/12 - Pittsburgh, PA
7/13 - Toronto, ON
7/14 - Montreal, ON
7/15 - Hartford, CT
7/17 - Buffalo, NY
7/18 - Scranton, PA
7/19 - Boston, MA
7/20 - Philadelphia, PA
7/21 - New York, NY
7/22 - Oceanport, NJ
7/24 - Washington, DC
7/25 - Virginia Beach, VA
7/26 - Atlanta, GA
7/27 - Orlando, FL
7/28 - Miami, FL
7/29 - Tampa, FL
7/30 - Charlotte, NC
7/31 - Cincinnati, OH
8/1 - Milwaukee, WI
8/4 - Seattle, WA
8/5 - Portland, OR

WIDOW SUNDAY Premiere "Blood Money" Music Video; Announce Forthcoming EP

2012-02-13T06:44:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
Massachusetts dance metal act WIDOW SUNDAY has premiered their music video for "Blood Money" over on GunShyAssassin.com. "Blood Money" is taken from their 2010 album 'In These Rusted Veins', recorded by Shane Frisby at The Brick HitHouse (Bury Your Dead, The Ghost Inside, Adaliah) and mixed by Pete Rutcho at Damage Productions (Revocation, Vanna, Hell Within).

The video features several appearance as WIDOW SUNDAY's gang battles another consisting of ACARO members Chris Harrell (Burn In Silence), Kevin Smith, and Jason Fitzgerald (Overcast), members of Give Zombies The Vote and The Summoned. The clip was directed by Anthony Jarvis (Times of Grace, The Empire Shall Fall) and written by Brett McCabe.

In other news, WIDOW SUNDAY has once again returned to The Brick HitHouse with Frisby to record a follow to 'In These Rusted Veins'. The new EP, titled 'Dance Metal', will be released later this year through Rat Pak Records.

'In These Rusted Veins' is available on iTunes and through the Century Media Distro.

Upcoming WIDOW SUNDAY dates:
Feb 10 - Binghampton, NY - American Legion 1254
Feb 11 - Oneonta, NY - Oneonta Theatre
Mar 02 - Auburn, ME - Club Texas
Mar 03 - Worcester, MA - Ralph's Rock Diner

BORKNAGAR Launches New Single

2012-02-13T06:37:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]
Norwegian avantgarde metallers BORKNAGAR are now premiering their first single via Decibel.com off their much anticipated new studio album, Urd (due out March 26th in Europe and March 27th in North America through Century Media). Go check out the enthralling track "Roots" here:

http://www.decibelmagazine.com/featured/streaming-borknagar-roots/

BORKNAGAR's mastermind Øystein G. Brun checked in to comment about the song:

"In regards to the depth, diversity and magnitude of our new album, 'Urd', it almost feels painful to slice off just a tiny bit of the bloody roast for the very first official 'starter'. I would argue that each and every song on the new album stands on solid ground, but as usual with our music, the songs empower each other in the context of a full album.

That said, 'Roots' is probably the song on the album that gives you the most representative impression of 'Urd'. Musically it contains most of the elements that framework the musical universe of BORKNAGAR, and lyrically this song is gnawing on the very spine of our lyrical tradition. Hope you enjoy this song, the first tiny glimpse into our new opus. The beast is about to be unleashed..."

The album's artwork was designed by Brazilian artist Marcelo Vasco (www.P2RDESIGN.com), who has not only already worked on the band's previous Universal release, but also with artists such as SOULFLY, BELPHEGOR, EINHERJER, and KEEP OF KALESSIN. The mixing duties for the album were taken care of by Jens Bogren at Sweden's Fascination Street Studios (OPETH, PARADISE LOST, KATATONIA, etc.).

The track-listing for the album is below.

Urd track-listing:
1. Epochalypse
2. Roots
3. The Beauty Of Dead Cities
4. The Earthling
5. The Plains Of Memories
6. Mount Regency
7. Frostrite
8. The Winter Eclipse
9. In A Deeper World

BORKNAGAR line-up (from left to right in band photo):
Øystein G. Brun - Clean & Electric Guitars (CRONIAN, ex-MOLESTED)
ICS Vortex - Bass, Clean Vocals & Choirs (ex-DIMMU BORGIR, ARCTURUS, ICS VORTEX)
Vintersorg - Grim Vocals, Clean Vocals & Choirs (VINTERSORG, FISSION)
Jens F. Ryland - Lead Guitars (ICS VORTEX)
Lars A. Nedland - Keys, Clean Vocals & Choirs (SOLEFALD, ex-CARPATHIAN FOREST)

Drums and percussion on Urd were performed by David Kinkade (SOULFLY, ex-MALEVOLENT CREATION).

BORKNAGAR Live 2012:
04.-07.04 - Oslo (Norway) - Inferno Festival / www.infernofestival.net
13.-14.04 - Lichtenfels (Germany) - Ragnarök Festival / www.ragnaroek-festival.com

More details and information about the upcoming BORKNAGAR release will be issued soon, so stay tuned!

MIDWAY - Burdens Lost EP [Review]

2012-02-12T06:37:00.000-08:00

Genre: Melodic Hardcore
Label: Self-released
Released: February 10th, 2012
Reviewer: Tristan French

Midway are Dubai’s premiere melodic hardcore crew, and its safe to say that these guys have been enjoying quite a run of dominance over the past few years, and this EP marks the start of a giant push by the band. No mistake, these guys are out for blood and “Burdens Lost” is honestly one of the best releases that I’ve heard to come out of the Middle East recently.

The EP opens with the first track released from it, the ambient yet hard hitting “Lights.” Honestly, this song sounds like somebody took TesseracT and The Ghost Inside and merged them into the perfect melodic hardcore sound. Resounding chords provide the almost calming air at first, whilst the drums remain as quiet as possible. However, this is just calm before the storm, as the track then launches into an awesomely heavy breakdown, as all instruments are turned up to full throttle. This track is full of surprises as tempo changes seem to come at listeners in surprise, giving drummer Mychal Martinez a chance to demonstrate his clear precision as well as his clear mastery of his craft, driving the song forward, one beat at a time. This song also showcases frontman Bruno Solonen’s epicly raw vocals, encapsulating his clear frustration and anger, symbolised mainly through the lyric “These anchors won’t keep me.” This song is sure to have heads banging from start-t0-finish, and it’s only the first track!

After the fadeout of “Lights” we are immediately thrown into the maelstrom as the EP’s title track “Burdens Lost” takes the spotlight. Martinez immediately speeds things up with Solonen following suit, contributing towards the barrage of sound. In short, this is the EP’s “stand up and fight” song. This track is the chance of guitarists George Hughes and Joel Reardon to display their riffing prowess, prominently display their abilities to keep precision during such regular time changes! Solonen’s lower growls are also featured here, and let me tell you they were shockingly awesome (I’d tell you where they are, but trust me, you’ll know them when you hear them). This track is a future mosh inducer for sure, open the floors up!

Following the title track is the mid tempoed monster “Burning Bridges.” If any song symbolises the melodic hardcore genre, then this is it! The assault provided by guitars and drums alike is nothing but a display of sheer brutality, and an excitement causer for sure! Probably one of the most interesting moments of the track are Hughes’ vocals. Although not as deep as Solonen’s they are equally as brutal with clear resentment and pent up frustration finally being let loose. A clear rapport between the two has clearly been built, and as you’ll hear, it works extremely well. The tempo once again shifts into an awesome breakdown, receiving a build-up to end all build-ups, this breakdown is clearly the angriest on the EP. I wouldn’t be surprised if there were a few fists thrown during its duration.

We come to the conclusion of a short yet epic EP, as the band stated “It’ll only be 4 tracks, but 4 tracks of awesome!” , and you can clearly tell that they weren’t wrong. Opening with Solonen growling with all his might “RELEASE THE KRAKEN!” followed by one of the sludgiest breakdowns I’ve ever heard. This track is the one for surprises, and tempo changes and strange tempos begin to appear, clearly demonstrating the band’s time keeping skills. Remember those low growls I was talking about? Well they get even lower here! Seriously, they make George Fisher’s look high. After releasing the Kraken, the band erupt into a unusual yet apt Meshuggah-esque time change, which’ll be good news to you djent fans out there. Ending how it started, the band enter one last breakdown before speeding up to the mid, leading into the EP’s ambient outro, ending how they began.

Basically, you should definitely download this and give it a listen if you haven’t done so already. It’s a whirpool of originality, brutality and serves as proof that these guys are ready for the big time. I’m rating this EP an 8/10, almost purely based around the fact that with just 4 songs, Midway have made their stamp. For these guys, the only way now is up!

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://midway.bandcamp.com/album/burdens-lost"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;BURDENS LOST by MIDWAY&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Download "Burdens Lost" via Bandcamp
Like the band on Facebook to stay updated

SKYHARBOR Announces Details for Debut Album - Blinding White Noise: Illusion & Chaos

2012-02-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

[PRESS RELEASE]

Indian progressive metal band SKYHARBOR have announced they will release their breathtaking double disc, debut album ‘Blinding White Noise: Illusion & Chaos’ worldwide on April 23rd via Basick Records. Pre-orders are available in store here.

The long awaited debut album promises to be a landmark release for the Indian independent music scene, in no small part thanks to the incredible number of international guest appearances it will see, including the likes of Marty Friedman (ex Megadeth), Daniel Tompkins (ex TesseracT), Vishal J. Singh (Amogh Symphony) and Sunneith Revankar (Bhayanak Maut).

Guitarist Keshav Dhar explains:

"After 4 years of epiphanies and disappointments, frustration and jubilation, I'm thrilled to finally be getting our debut album out. It has taken three years to write and another to produce, and what I am most proud of is that I feel each song stands on its own, and while they span a wide range of ideas, sounds and stories, they all belong. Having been able to collaborate with some of the finest names in modern music was the icing on the cake, and I hope people enjoy this album as much as I have enjoyed creating it."

Starting out as a simple bedroom studio project, guitarist Keshav Dhar has seen SKYHARBOR quickly evolve into one of India’s hottest metal prospects, with huge admiration coming in from some of the biggest names in metal worldwide. An astonishing amount of buzz also surrounded the band's first ever performance at the Bacardi NH7 Festival in Pune, India earlier this month, where they played to over 1,000 people and were one of the weekend’s highlights.

The track 'Maeva' has been released for streaming from the forthcoming album and can be experienced here. The complete track-listing for the album is below.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://basickrecords.bandcamp.com/track/illusion-maeva"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Illusion: Maeva by SKYHARBOR&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

‘Blinding White Noise: Illusion & Chaos’ track-listing:

DISC ONE (Running Time: 34m 20s)
1. Illusion: Dots
2. Illusion: Order 66
3. Illusion: Catharsis
4. Illusion: Night
5. Illusion: Aurora
6. Illusion: Celestial
7. Illusion: Maeva

DISC TWO (Running Time: 13m 38s)
8. Chaos: Trayus
9. Chaos: Aphasia
10. Chaos: Insurrection

MELECHESH Live In Dubai (April 20th)

2012-02-11T11:32:00.000-08:00

Holy Noise (Dubai) is celebrating their 5th anniversary with an event of heavy proportions. Oriental metallers MELECHESH will be returning to the UAE to tear it up on April 20th at Rock City Club (Howard Johnson Hotel, Dubai).

Tickets for the event cost 100 A.E.D (21+); including a "Meet & Greet" after the show, which you obviously don't want to miss!

Find out more information by visiting the official event page:
http://on.fb.me/zbH9RO

MELECHESH's latest studio effort 'The Epigenesis' was released on October 25th, 2010 via Nuclear Blast Records; the album was hailed as one of the best oriental black metal records of the year by many accredited metal critics around the world.

NEW MESHUGGAH SONG SURFACES!

2012-02-10T05:23:00.001-08:00

In the early AM of today, the internet went into frenzy when a new song by progressive groove masters Meshuggah made it's way onto the interwaves.

The song was first considered a leak, but Got-djent.com later confirmed that the song and the site that it leaked from were registered to the band's own manager. Making this the most interesting/creative way to debut a new song. No need to explain the genius behind this move.

So here it is! Track 7 from Meshuggah's upcoming album 'KOLOSS' epically titled "Break These Bones Whose Sinews Gave It Motion"

ABIGAIL WILLIAMS - Becoming [Review]

2012-02-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

Genre: Symphonic/Atmospheric Black Metal
Label: Candlelight Records
Released: 24th January
Reviewer: Monish Shringi

Originating from Phoenix, Arizona and now settled in Los Angeles, Abigail Williams have released their third full length album entitled ‘Becoming’. Vocalist/Guitarist Ken Sorceron has pretty much handled all production aspects of this album. I personally haven’t been a big fan of this band but the new album does have something in store for my liking. After their second full length, the band identifies black metal as their primary genre of music, breaking a shift from metalcore. After several comparisons with Dimmu Borgir and Cradle of Filth, the new album may finally lead this band into having a sound of their very own.

“Ascension Sickness”, the first track of the album, begins with a nice atmospheric intro and heads in straight with shredded guitars and blast beats. In the first half, the vocals seemed to be slightly damped and unclear. They could have been raised to a better extent as compared to what the song has to offer. The latter half consists of a mix of clean and distorted guitars, demonic vocals and a more emphatic finishing.

The next two songs, “Radiance” and “Elestial” seem to have somewhat of a doom influence, and that mixture with black metal is something what the band has managed to pull off quite well. The vocals were better structured and sounded more to what one would expect.

“Infinite Fields of Mind” has a very enjoyable and delicate clean intro with a cool atmospheric background. The song had a good overall balance of clean and heavy and a solid traditional black metal outro. There’s a small interlude track which finally leads to the last last track in the album entitled, “Beyond the Veil”, which has to be my favourite. There were a lot of Nordic influences in the interlude and the final track, of which the band is also constantly recognised for. The melodic guitar licks along with the Nordic orchestrations, sounded warm, gentle and profound. They were once again mixed really well with the black metal components.

Overall, the band developed a more mature and concrete sound as compared to their previous efforts. I will definitely recommend this to anyone who is a fan of black, doom and symphonic metal. The intros and outros were well rounded off along with the primary black metal dominance. It has to be said that if the band continue in this manner, there are definitely greater aspects to look forward to.

Click here to order "Becoming"

JESSE LEACH Back In KILLSWITCH ENGAGE (We Roundhouse Kick Everyone In Exictement!)

2012-02-06T23:38:00.000-08:00

It's finally been confirmed that former Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach has returned to the fold after the departure of previous vocalist Howard Jones.

The band has yet to make an official statement on the matter, but instead posted a picture of the reunited group together on their official website, all smiling in the snow.

Henrik Ohlsson (SCAR SYMMETRY) Recommends His Top 5 Extreme Metal Songs

2012-02-06T04:50:00.000-08:00

Let's get right to it. Scar Symmetry are at the forefront of modern Swedish metal. The band's blend of 80s hair metal hooks with down right death metal obliteration has set them far from the rest of the pack.

The band's latest studio effort "The Unseen Empire" (out now via Nuclear Blast Records) continues Scar Symmetry's all out riffing assault topped with pop-laden choruses and technical drum fills. Even though I'm more a fan of their first 2 records, Scar Symmetry has still managed to full throttle their way record, after record, with memorable songs.

While drummer Henrik Ohlsson takes care of all the pummeling patterns , he is also in-charge of writing the band's lyrics, which he uses to create a series of conceptual themes through out the band's releases.

A while back I got into contact with Henrik to get his take on his top 5 extreme metal songs to recommend us. He was more than nice enough to reply back with his take, which consists of mainly Morbid Angel songs (classic Morbid Angel songs that is), stating:

"Extreme metal songs? Like...only brutal shit, right? I would say 5 Morbid Angel songs covers some of the best brutal stuff available: "Immortal Rites", "Suffocation", "Visions from the Darkside", ´"Maze of Torment", all songs from "Altars of Madness". Outstanding stuff to say the least! My fifth choice is "God of Emptiness" by...MORBID FUCKING ANGEL!!!"

Scar Symmetry will be returning to the stage after their winter hibernation down-time, by kicking off their 2012 schedule with a performance in Sandviken, Sweden with The Storyteller and Foolproof on March 3rd (Click here for the event's official page).

Here's Henrik Ohlsson's "5 Extreme metal songs of recommendation."

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/

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