metalupdate.com

NEWS

METAL UPDATE July 5, 2007

Construction on the new Metal Update / Metal Judgment site continues. We will be back online again soon.

METAL UPDATE March 8, 2007

A complete site overhaul is in progress. We will be back online in the very near future.

METAL UPDATE June 19, 2006

Interview with Obituary has been posted in FEATURES.

METAL UPDATE April 2, 2006

Interview with Meshuggah has been posted in FEATURES.

FUSE / ALTERNATIVE PRESS March 30, 2006

On Wednesday, April 5th, Fuse will premiere the "Alternative Press SXSW Party Special." The special will feature behind the scenes footage, exclusive interviews and live performances by selected bands from this SXSW party, which took place earlier this month.

GRAMMY AWARDS December 8, 2005

The nominees for this year's Grammy Awards have been announced.
Best Metal Performance: Ministry, Mudvayne, Rammstein, Shadows Fall, Slipknot.
Best Hard Rock Performance: Audioslave, Nine Inch Nails, Robert Plant, Queens of the Stone Age, System of a Down.

CBGB December 8, 2005

An agreement has been reached with the legendary club's landlords to allow CBGB to stay open at its present location for another year. Under the agreement, the club has until October 31, 2006 to find a new home. Mayor Michal Bloomberg made a statement indicating the city would help in the search.

KING'S X November 29, 2005

The back end of the band's bus caught on fire early in the morning of November 17th. The band and their gear emerged intact and the tour continues. Pictures of the aftermath may be viewed at http://www.kingsxonline.com/photos/bus.

METAL UPDATE November 21, 2005

All That Remains interview with Phil Labonte has been added to the Features section. Updates have been done throughout the site as well with more to come.

THE GATHERING November 21, 2005

The band is scheduled to enter the studio today to begin recording their forthcoming ninth studio release with producer Atti Bauw. The album with be recorded in a home-made professional studio the band has constructed inside an old church in Southern Holland. The album is anticipated to be released in March with a tour commencing at the same time. The double-DVD A Sound Relief has just been released, containing live performance footage and extras.

KEEP OF KALESSIN November 21, 2005

Keep of Kalessin will replace Khold on the upcoming European tour with Exodus and Hypocrisy. The band plans to perform material from the new effort, Armada, which is scheduled for release on March 27th.

VERONA RECORDS November 21, 2005

Silverstein vocalist, Shane Told, has started up his own label dubbed Verona Records. The first signing to the label is Dead and Divine. The debut disc is slated for release on November 29th.

News from this period will be posted. Please check back.

CBGB August 11, 2005

A New York civil court judge ruled today that landmark New York City club CBGB could not be evicted from its Bowery location because of a bookkeeping dispute. The club maintains they were not billed for increases which resulted in around $100,000 in unpaid rent increases, intrest and fees accumulating over four years. The club's current lease expires on August 31st and a renewal is still unresolved.

News from this period will be posted. Please check back.

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY June 24, 2005

A New York civil court judge ruled today that landmark New York City club CBGB could not be evicted from its Bowery location because of a bookkeeping dispute. The club maintains they were not billed for increases which resulted in around $100,000 in unpaid rent increases, intrest and fees accumulating over four years. The club's current lease expires on August 31st and a renewal is still unresolved.

CONFESSOR May 28, 2005

Season of Mist is issuing a Limited Edition EP entitled Sour Times on June 14th. Only 1000 copies will be printed of this 2CD set, which includes 2 new songs.

HEATHEN May 27, 2005

Former Heathen bassist Michael "Yaz" Wayne Jastremski passed away on May 23, 2005 from a heart attack. He was undergoing detox at the time of his death. Yaz had reportedly left the band on good terms in June 2004 to seek rehabilitation for drug and alcohol addiction.

SYSTEM OF A DOWN May 25, 2005

Following the May 17 release of Mezmerize, the album has scored the number one position on the Billboard Album Chart, scanning 453,000 copies in its first week. The record also landed in the number spot on charts in Germany, Canada, Austria, France, Sweden, Japan, Switzerland, Colombia, Greece, Brazil, and New Zeland, with worldwide sales exceeding 800,000 copies.

UNHOLY GHOST May 19, 2005

Unholy Ghost has announced two new additions to the band. Gaberiel Lewandowski (Naphobia, Hellwitch, Acheron, Equinox) is joining the band on drums and Bryan Hipp (Diabolic, Brutality, Cradle of Filth) is coming in on guitar.

FRANTIC BLEEP May 13, 2005

Frantic Bleep has made a number of line up changes, the current roster is: Kejetil Fosseid - vocals, Patrick Scantlebury - guitars, Lars Gunnar Morastseter - guitars, Eywin Sundstrøm - bass, and Trond Sand - drums. The band plans to make their live debut at the Norwegian Aurora Festival on June 25th.

COMBAT RECORDS May 13, 2005

Koch Records is teaming with Entertainment Services Unlimited to relaunch Combat Records. The relaunched label's first releases will appear this September from their new roster, including At All Cost, Horse the Band and Look What I Did.

DAVID WAYNE May 11, 2005

Vocalist David Wayne, 47, passed away on May 10, 2005 as a result of complications from injuries sustained in a head-on motor vehicle collision several months earlier. Well-known for his time in Metal Church, the singer also fronted Reverend, Wayne, and David Wayne's Metal Church.

SHADOWS FALL May 11, 2005

The band has exceeded 200,000 copies sold of their lastest album The War Within according to SoundScan. Shadows Fall will be performing on the main stage during this summer's Ozzfest.

CIRCA SURVIVE May 5, 2005

Circa Survive's debut album Juturna landed at number nine on the Billboard New Artist / Heatseeker Chart in its first week of release. The album sold 2,500 copies its first day onsale. The band had formed only six months before its release.

POLTERCHRIST May 3, 2005

Guitarist Dan Loughry has amicably parted ways with the band. He will be replaced by Ed Drozdowski (Mortal Decay, ex-Insatanity, ex-Body Part Trophy Case, ex-Pyrexia).

SWALLOW THE SUN May 3, 2005

Swallow the Sun's single "Forgive Her" reached number 4 on the Finnish Top 20 Singles chart. This marks the first time a release from Firebox Records has landed on an offical sales chart.

MINNEAPOLIS MAYHEM 2 May 2, 2005

Sodom has cancelled their appearance at Minneapolis Mayhem 2 because of problems with their paperwork to get into the U.S. Hirax has been announced as the replacement headliner.

SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND TOUR April 26, 2005

Lamb of God has been announced as the headliner for this summer's Sounds of the Underground Tour. Other bands on the tour are scheduled to be: Clutch, Poison The Well, Opeth, Unearth, From Autumn To Ashes, Chimaira, Norma Jean, Every Time I Die, Strapping Young Lad, Throwdown, High On Fire, Devil Driver, All That Remains, A Life Once Lost; with regional appearances by Madball, Terror, The Red Chord, Fear Before the March of Flames. A "special half-time performance" by Gwar is also planned.

NAPALM DEATH April 25, 2005

Bassist Shane Embruy is teaming with Japan's Gargamel toys to create the Grind KAIJU (Japanese for Grind Monster) "GARGA DEATH." This collector's figure will be "super limited" and will be available in Europe only through the Century Media webshop.

CRISIS April 24, 2005

The band has added Justin Arman (ex-Society 1) to the line up. They have announced that they have begun writing new material together and that he will be the featured drummer on the new album and will also be drumming on the U.S. tour with M.O.D. this summer.

VITAL REMAINS April 23, 2005

The band reports that they will be unable to join the upcoming Canadian tour with Deicide as planned. Tony Lazaro has asked the Metal Update to express the band's deepest apologies to their fans.

COVENANCE April 23, 2005

Ex-Dying Fetus member Vince Matthews and Ex-Misery Index members Bruce Greig and Matt Byers have joined forces to create Covenance. The new band has just completed recording their first demo.

AKERCOCKE April 22, 2005

Former Berzerker guitarist Matt Wilcock has been confirmed as the new Akercocke axeman. He was offered the position after performing a one-off show with the band in Hamburg. The band will do a short run of dates in the UK before heading into the studio to record their fourth album this summer.

BANE OF EXISTENCE April 22, 2005

Vocalist Doug Rinaldi has announced he is leaving the band after five years due to "personal and health related issues." His last show with the band will be on June 3rd in Allston, MA. Guitarist Greg Armstrong has also left the band in order to concentrate on his studies. The band plans to "get right back up and move on and tear the MA metal scene another new asshole."

ADEMA April 22, 2005

Planets debuted at #152 on Billboard's Top 200 in its first week of release. The album debuted at #11 on the Top Independent Chart, earning the distinction of "Hot Shot Debut" on the chart for the week. The band is currently on a U.S. tour in support of the release.

MUDVAYNE April 21, 2005

Lost and Found debuted at #2 on Billboard's Top 200 in its first week of release. First week sales of 152,000 units was nearly double the first week sales of 2002's The End of All Things to Come. The first single off the album "Happy?" has hit #1 on rock radio. The band will play on the main stage during this year's Ozzfest.

AMERICAN HEAD CHARGE April 20, 2005

Guitarist and co-founder Bryan Ottoson was found dead on the band's tour bus on April 19th. The cause was determined to be a prescription drug overdose. The band plans to complete their tour with Mudvayne, Life of Agony and Bloodsimple and will return to the road on April 29th.

IT DIES TODAY April 20, 2005

The band's van and equipment were stolen in the middle of the night during a tour stop in California. The van was later recovered with a cut fuel line but emptied of its contents. It Dies Today were forced to cancel their San Francisco and Denver shows, but support from fellow bands have helped them continue the tour: Cold War turned a Pomona, CA show into a benefit for the band, and Full Blown Chaos and Caliban have offered to loan them equipment.

THE FALL OF TROY April 19, 2005

The band was robbed last night while on tour with The Clarity Process. The Fall of Troy's van was broken into and all of their money was stolen.

CANDIRIA April 13, 2005

The New York Post reports that band has been awarded a settlement of $29 million for injuries received during their near-fatal collision with a tractor trailer in 2002.

DEATHWISH / ICARUS RECORDS April 13, 2005

Deathwish / Icarus have teamed with Apple to make their entire catalog available for purchase and download through the iTunes Music Store. They have also teamed with Havoc TV and Fuse "On Demand" to make their latest videos available for viewing "24 hours a day."

KINGCROW April 13, 2005

Bassist Giulio Caputi has been added to the band. Kingcrow is working on a new concept album, tentatively entitled, Timetropia, and will begin recording in April for a summer release.

VUIST April 10, 2005

Bassist Jeff van Putten has been replaced by Ronald Van Veen (Demalion). The announcement states that Ronald has filled in for the band in the past and is now a permanent member of the band, while Jeff will stay with the band as a roadie and may perhaps become active again as a musician in the future.

LILITU April 8, 2005

20 year-old Virginia Beach native Noah Martin has been added to the band as the new permanent bassist. Lilitu will be shooting a video for "The Delores Lesion" this spring, and plans for a tour are in the works.

PROGPOWER USA VI April 8, 2005

Only three days after tickets were made available to the general public, ProgPower USA VI officially sold out. This marks the fourth consecutive year the festival has sold out of tickets. The line up will be: Stratovarius, Angra, Conception, Therion, Orphaned Land, Pink Cream 69, Manticora, Circus Maximus, Symphorce, and Stride. ProgPower will be held in Atlanta, GA on September 16th and 17th.

CONQUER RECORDS April 8, 2005

Three bands on the Conquer Records roster have made lineup changes. Cyprian has replaced bassist Devilyn with Cyclone. Immemorial has parted ways with vocalist Karla. Michal "Troll" Zielinski (Oblivion, DeFucto) has been selected as the new drummer of Dead by Dawn, replacing Tomasz "Starkey" Starczawski who has departed due to illness.

DEADEN April 8, 2005

Deaden has reunited after a 5 year break. The band plans to enter the studio in June to record the follow up to Hymns of the Sick.

SLAYER April 7, 2005

Still Reigning, Slayer's live DVD released last November, has been certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. This marks their second DVD to achieve this distinction, the first was 2003's War at the Warfield.

INTO ETERNITY April 6, 2005

Guitarist Rob Doherty, vocalist Stu Block and gutarist/vocalist Tim Roth have been treated for pneumonia and the band was forced to cancel several of their late March dates with Amorphis. The band is now back on the road.

GIGANTOUR April 5, 2005

Dave Mustaine has assembled a touring festival for this summer, dubbed "Gigantour." The confirmed bands for the mainstage are: Megadeth, Dream Theater, Fear Factory, The Dillinger Escape Plan, Nevermore. The line up, hand picked by Mustaine, will embark on a six week North American trek in July.

OZZFEST April 5, 2005

Mudvayne has been added to the mainstage lineup for this year's Ozzfest tour. The band takes the former mystery slot between Shadows Fall and Iron Maiden. Their single, "Happy?" from their forthcoming album, Lost and Found, reached #2 on Billboard's Active Rock Chart. A video for the single is in rotation on Headbangers Ball and Fuse.

MODERN DRUMMER FESTIVAL April 5, 2005

Drummers Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall) and Chris Adler (Lamb of God) are confirmed to appear as special guest artists alongside drummers from rock, jazz and R&B such as, Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Sheila E. (Ringo Starr, Prince) and Roy Haynes. The festival will be held on May 28th and 29th in Newark, NJ.

MINNEAPOLIS MAYHEM 2 April 5, 2005

The line up for the festival will be: Sodom, Sadus, Dew-Scented, Usurper, The Chasm, Summon, Avenger of Blood, Throcult, Epicurean, Estuary, The Accursed, Winterthrall, Cyst, Beltfed Weapon, Soulless, Post Mortom, Novembers Doom, Sauron, Lupara, SI6KS. This will be only the second time Sodom has appeared on U.S. soil. The festival will be held on May 6th and 7th in Columbia Heights, MN.

ICARUS WITCH April 5, 2005

Symphony X guitarist Michael Romeo guests on the band's track, "Roses on White Lace," for the forthcoming tribute to Alice Cooper. Entitled, Welcome to the Nightmare: An All Star Salute to Alice Cooper, Icarus Witch joins luminaries such as Iced Earth, Children Of Bodom, Dio, Bruce Dickinson, Dave Mustaine, Marty Friedman, Vince Neil, Dee Snider, George Lynch on the tribute, which is set for an April 19th release through Magick Records.

LYZANXIA April 5, 2005

Drummer Clement Decrock has been added to the line up following the departure of touring drummer Gael Ferret due to "personal commitments."

DIECAST April 4, 2005

Diecast's new single, "Rise and Oppose," is featured in a national commercial for the Volkswagen Jetta. The band recently shot a video for the song with director Kevin Leonard. The video is expected to air on Fuse and MTV2 in late April.

BARRY STERN April 3, 2005

Drummer Barry Stern passed away on April 1st. The cause is believe to be complications from hip replacement surgery. A statement released by the Chicago Music Factory read, "Barry made an impact on the Chicago metal scene in the 80's with his band Zoetrope whose street metal put out the legendary Amnesty and Life Of Crime releases. He then joined Trouble where his powerful drumming can be heard on their self titled release and the Manic Frustration release. Years later he started playing with Debris Inc. and most recently D-Connect. His last official recordings appear on the self titled Debris Inc. debut that comes out on Tuesday April 5th."

CBGB'S April 3, 2005

The landmark New York City venue is in jeopardy of losing its lease. According to Reuters, "CBGB owner Hilly Kristal is embroiled in a dispute with the nonprofit Bowery Residents' Committee, which owns the club's East Village building and operates a homeless shelter above it. In addition to back rent, Kristal's negotiations with the BRC to extend his lease past its August expiration have stalled over the subject of a substantial rent increase." A website, http://www.savecbgb.org has been launched to organize an effort to save the club.

SYSTEM OF A DOWN April 3, 2005

The band sold out their "Souls 2005" benefit concert in less than two minutes. A video for the single "B.Y.O.B." was shot in Los Angeles last weekend with director Jake Nava; it is expected to air by the end of April. The single's debut on radio has been garnering distinctions. As reported in a press release, "#1 Most Added at Rock. #2 Most Added at Alternative. "B.Y.O.B." debuted in the Number One position at WXRT/K-ROCK in New York. �B.Y.O.B� also debuted in the Top 10 at stations in Tampa, Rochester, Las Vegas, Tucson, Norfolk, Phoenix, Austin, Orlando, Tulsa, Colorado Springs, Bakersfield, Richmond, Buffalo, Louisville, Columbus, Portland, Sacramento, Seattle, San Bernardino, San Diego, Minneapolis, St. Louis, New Orleans." The single is the first from the forthcoming 2-disc set entitled Mezmerize/Hypnotize produced by Rick Rubin and Daron Malakian. Mezmerize is set for a May 17th release, with Hypnotize landing near the end of the year.

PROPHECY April 3, 2005

The band has brought Chris White on as their new drummer. Scott Horne (Crimson Massacre) will fill in on the kit for the Maryland Deathfest. Prophecy will be co-headlining the International Metal Fest this September in South Bend, IL. The band is writing the final three songs for their next release, entitled Don't Fuckin' Mess with Texas and will be entering the studio to record in June. 'Foretold...Foreseen' is being reissued and an official DVD is planned.

ANTHRAX April 1, 2005

Anthrax held a global press conference on Sirius Satellite Radio to discuss the reuniting of their classic line up. In regard to rumors that they would be appearing on the main stage at this year's Ozzfest, the band replied, "You shouldn't believe everything you hear on the internet." The band's summer plans are to play several European festivals, including headlining at Dynamo. They will kick off the reunion with two sold-out dates in Chicago, then head off to tour internationally, before returning to tour the U.S. in the fall. A DVD and box set are planned and they hope to see them released by the end of the year. They stated that they do not know how long the reunion will last, and in regard to John Bush and Rob Caggiano, they responded that there are no negative feelings and they are still a part of the "extended Anthrax family" but the band does not know what the future holds. The band also announced they are teaming with the Slave to the Metal Foundation to raise awareness of the health risks of the Anthrax vaccination which is being administered to military personnel.

EVERGREEN TERRACE April 1, 2005

Drummer Chris Brown has parted with the band. Long time friend of Evergreen Terrace, Brad Moxey, has taken over.

2005 MONTERRY METAL FEST April 1, 2005

The complete line up will be: Motorhead, Danzig, Mago De Oz, W.A.S.P., Hammerfall, Sonata Arctica, Metal Church, Jag Panzer, Neil Turbin, Shadowkeep, Azraels Bane, Lupara, Ignitor, Raped God, Cristal Y Acero, Pulverized, Dracko, Elfonia, Anton, Zamak, Cruz De Hierro, Dagger, Avatar. The festival will be held on May 28th in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

GATES OF METAL 2005 March 30, 2005

The complete line up for Gates of Metal 2005: Dimmu Borgir, Edguy, Children of Bodom, Masterplan, Dark Tranquillity, Grave Digger, Amon Amarth, Dream Evil, Moonsorrow, Evergrey, Nocturnal Rites, Sabaton, Twilightning, God Among Insects, Teräsbetoni, Pantokrator. The festival will be held on August 5th and 6th in Hultsfred, Sweden.

MONSTER MAGNET March 29, 2005

Guitarist Phil Calvano has left the band in an amicable split. The band is auditioning for a replacement and Dave Wyndorf will be filling in the meantime. The band is continuing to write the new album and the change is not expected to affect the schedule. Monster Magnet will be supporting Motorhead on two Northeast dates in May.

LOUDER HARDER FASTER March 29, 2005

The line up for Louder Harder Faster will be: Hydrogyn, The Aurora, Belt Fed, Weapon, Ion Vein, Without End, Krusifire, Slikhelvetika, Enamored, Try Redemption, Twilight Odyssey, Hurt Locker, The Kiss Of Death, Flotsam & Jetsam, Vampire Mooose, Lupara, Trouble, Funerus, Beyond The Flesh, Full Blown Chaos, Incantation, Champion, Speed\Kill/Hate, Martyr AD, Nuclear Assault, Agnostic Front, Mushroomhead, Turmoil, God Forbid, Macabre, Testament, Obituary. The festival will be held June 3rd - 5th in Allentown, PA.

DEVOURMENT March 29, 2005

Longtime drummer Brad Fincher has parted ways with the band. He has been replaced by Eric Park (ex-Suture).

HELLFIRE MANIFEST 2005 March 28, 2005

The festival will be held in Huntsville, AL on May 13th in honor of Dageth of Blood Stained Dusk, who died in a car accident in January at the age of 24. The lineup will be: Hellwitch, Quinta Essentia, Epoch of Unlight, Fleshtized, Convergence From Within, Dark Faith, Stentoria, and Legions of Astaroth.

ILLDISPOSED March 26, 2005

Guitarist Lasse Bak has been fired from the band "because of too many bad experiences during the last year." They have decided to continue as a quartet.

SUBLIMINAL VERSES TOUR March 24, 2005

Trivium and DevilDriver have dropped off the Subliminal Verses tour with Slipknot, Lamb of God and Shadows Fall. According to a statEment issued by Roadrunner Records, the cause is "unforeseen Union enforced time constraints with venues."

METAL CAMP March 24, 2005

The line up for Metal Camp, to be held June 24th to 26th in Tolmin, Slovenia, will be: Slayer, Anthrax, Yngwie Malmsteen, Soulfly, Children of Bodom, Hammerfall, Therion, Obituary, Kataklysm, In Extremo, JBO, Disbelief, Exciter, Graveworm, Ektomorf, Hatesphere, Suidakra, Morgana Lefay, Prospect, Noctiferia, Thunderstorm, Gun Barrel, Rain, Lost Dreams, Stigma, Wotan, Bleed in Vain, Eminence, Fleshless, Lurid Lishaped, sky's Shadow, Seraphel, Excelsis, Eeriness, Amnesia, Mely, Desilence, Lifend, Arkenemy, Bloodfeast, Perishing Mankind, Sabaium, Forgotten Anami, Sweet Sorrow, Chaoswave, Darkfall, Neptune, Brutart, Vanitas, Cremation, Arthemis, Cold Void, Dtw, Possession.

2000 DECIBEL March 23, 2005

The line up is: Therion, Meshuggah, Tiamat, Unleashed, Spiritual Beggars, Amon Amarth, Falconer, Loud�N Nasty, Grave, Wolf, The Storyteller, Face Down, Nostradameus, Defleshed, Cryonic Temple, W.E.T., Sonic Syndicate, Loss, Southern Forest, P.I.G., Degrade, Minhiriath. The festival will be held May 21st in Bengtsfors, Sweden.

CLASSIC METAL FESTIVAL 5 March 23, 2005

The line up is: Hallow's Eve, Bloodlust, Unearthed, Attacker, Dr. Mastermind / Wild Dogs, Without End, Rottweiler, Heraldry, Stone Vengeance, Iron Cross, Gardy Loo, October 31, Twisted Tower Dire, Goat Horn, Skullview, Catch 22, Hell I Feel, Beyond Glory, Storm Within, Frankenshred, Knights of Tethys, Necrodemon. The festival will be held on May 13th and 14th in Lansing, IL.

LACUNA COIL March 23, 2005

Comalies has surpassed the U.S. SoundScan plateau of 200,000 copies sold. They are the first Century Family artist to achieve this distinction. The band is currently in pre-production on their follow-up album and plans to perform some of the new songs at European festivals this summer.

INFERNO METAL FESTIVAL 2005 March 21, 2005

Season of Mist has issued a press release stating that "Necrophagist and Mantas cancelled their shows at Inferno due to health issues within the band and close family." It goes on to state that Nattefrost and Hatesphere will be their replacements.

OZZFEST 2005 March 16, 2005

The line up for Ozzfest 2005 has been officially announced. Main stage: Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Shadows Fall, Black Label Society. Second stage: Rob Zombie, Killswitch Engage, As I Lay Dying, Mastodon, The Haunted, In Flames, Arch Enemy, The Black Dahlia Murder, Bury Your Dead, Soilwork, Trivium, It Dies Today, A Dozen Furies. One additional act, to play on the main stage between Shadows Fall and Iron Maiden, has yet to be announced.

BW&BK 6-PACK WEEKEND III March 15, 2005

The final line up has been announced: God Dethroned, Mors Principium Est, Deadly Blessing, Trouble, Death Angel, Chris Caffery, Jag Panzer, Soilwork, Dark Tranquillity, Hypocrisy, Exciter, Raven, Mnemic, HavocHate. The BW&BK 6-pack Weekend will be held in Cleveland, OH on May 6th and 7th. A kick-off party/concert will be held on May 5th, with the line up soon to be announced.

OZZY OSBOURNE March 15, 2005

Prince of Darkness, Ozzy's first ever box set will be released March 22nd. The four disc, 52 song set is "a testament to the iconic rockers 25-year solo career." Fans purchasing the set will be able to obtain a free general admission to Ozzfest 2005 with their purchase of a ticket.

MANOWAR March 11, 2005

On July 23rd, at Earthshaker Fest 2005, the band will be joined on stage by "all of the original members from each lineup." In addition actor Christopher Lee will be narrating parts originally recorded by Orson Welles during "Dark Avenger" and "Defender." The performance will be recorded and will feature a 100 piece orchestra and a 100 piece choir. The First International Mega Manowar Fanconvention has been scheduled for July 21 - 23rd to coincide with the Earthshaker Fest.

LEMMING PROJECT March 11, 2005

Guitarist and main songwriter, Michael Schmale, died February 17th. No cause was disclosed for the 33 year old's death.

GREEN CARNATION March 10, 2005

The band is preparing a special release to celebrate their 15th anniversary. They are hoping to collect video footage from their performance at Wacken 2002, where they performed Light of Day, Day of Darkness in its entirety, as part of this release. Anyone who has footage of this performace is asked to email tcgirt@online.no. Green Carnation will be releasing The Quiet Offspring in North American through The End Records on March 22nd.

NORMA JEAN March 10, 2005

The band's new album O' God the Aftermath charted at number 62 on the Billboard 200 album chart in its first week of release. Norma Jean is on tour through May with Unearth and Atreyu.

INFERNO METAL FESTIVAL 2005 March 9, 2005

Bloodthron have cancelled their appearance due to vocalist Krell's "health problems." Necrophagist will take their slot on Thursday at the festival. MTV UK's Dirty Sanchez will appear to do a special feature on Friday between Aura Noir and Arcturs.

JUDAS PRIEST March 9, 2005

Judas Priest's new album Angel of Retribution debuted on the Billboard 200 album chart at number 13, making it the band's highest-charting album ever. Previously the band's highest ranking had been number 17 with Screaming for Vengeance in 1982 and Turbo in 1986.

CALIGULA March 8, 2005

After searching for months without finding a suitable replacement for singer Ryan Kennedy, who left shortly after the release of the band's debut EP We Burn Bridges, Caligula have decided to call it quits. Kennedy and drummer Mike Burrows are reportedly starting a new band "in a similar vein."

SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND TOUR March 7, 2005

A new summer festival tour will be launched this summer. Dubbed the Sounds of the Underground, participants in the tour are scheduled to be: Clutch, Poison The Well, Opeth, Unearth, From Autumn To Ashes, Chimaira, Norma Jean, Every Time I Die, Strapping Young Lad, Throwdown, High On Fire, Devil Driver, All That Remains, A Life Once Lost. Madball and Terror are planned to split the East and West legs of the tour, with East Coast appearances by The Red Chord, Midwest and Southeast appearances by Fear Before the March of Flames, and West Coast appearances by Himsa. A "special half-time performance" by Gwar is also planned. A "special headliner" is yet to be announced.

BLOODGASM March 7, 2005

The band has reformed with Marshall Mott on lead guitar and John Mazurowski on bass. New material is being prepared for recording later this year.

DREAM THEATER March 6, 2005

Dream Theater has the distinction of being the very last band to record at the legendary Hit Factory in NYC. The first album ever recorded at the famous studio was Stevie Wonder's Songs in the Key of Life. In June the band will begin their world tour with a European summer leg "comprised of festivals and 'Evening With' shows."

CRISIS March 4, 2005

Following the arrest of Ryan Ball, recently named as the band's new drummer, the band announced Ball had been let go over two weeks before his arrest. The band is currently working with Justin Arman (ex-Society 1), while they search for a permanent replacement.

AGENT STEEL March 4, 2005

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of its release, the band will be including Skeptics Apocalypse from start to finish in the set on their European tour, set to begin on March 25th. The headlining tour is "built around the Raise Your Fist and Keep It True festivals with the killer Belgian band, After All, as support."

FEAR MY THOUGHTS March 4, 2005

Drummer Alex Kovats has left the band "for personal reasons." Norman Lonhart has been named as his replacement. Fear My Thoughts have begun recording their new album with Jacob Hansen; it is scheduled for a July 26th release worldwide.

ENSLAVED March 3, 2005

Enslaved won the Norwegian Grammy Award for Isa. The other metal nominees were Mayhem and Black Debbath. Enslaved also won the Alarm Award for best metal album 2004.

VEHEMENCE March 3, 2005

Newly appointed vocalist Sean Vandegrift will be unable to join the band for their spring tour with Crematorium and The Red Death. Adam Cody of Glass Casket will fill in on this run, except for the April 23rd date in Augusta, GA, which will be handled by a guest vocalist. Bryan Edwards of Clifton will fill in on the March 21st to April 5th dates with Thine Eyes Bleed as previously announced.

PRO-PAIN March 2, 2005

Pro-Pain have been selected to replace Death Angel on the Kreator tour with Vader and Autumn Offering, set to kick off in New York on April 3rd. It is expected that the band will premiere material from their forthcoming album, Prophets of Doom, set for release on June 14th. Raw Video, Pro-Pain's first official DVD, will be released April 19th.

PROGPOWER USA VI March 1, 2005

The line up for ProgPower USA VI in Atlanta, GA will be: Stratovarius, Angra, Conception, Therion, Orphaned Land, Pink Cream 69, Manticora, Circus Maximus, Symphorce, and Stride. ProgPower will be held in Atlanta on September 16th and 17th. Featuring the entire original line up, this will mark the first performance by Conception since 1997.� Tickets go on sale through Ticketmaster on April 2nd; only 900 tickets will be available to the public.

UNHOLY GHOST February 27, 2005

Founding member and lead guitarist, Kelly McLauchlin will be leaving the band. The band's statement reports he will continue with Pessimist and "other musical interests." A replacement will be announced "soon." Drummer David Breazeal has been added to the line up. The band is currently writing material for their follow up to last year's Torrential Reign.

MURDER CONSTRUCT February 27, 2005

Casy Shropshire (Uphill Battle) has joined the band on guitar. Their first track, "No Mental Effort" for a Napalm Death tribute album, will be recorded in April.

BLOODBATH February 25, 2005

Peter Tagtgren has left the band due to "conflicting schedules." Mikael Akerfeldt will return to take over vocal duties for Bloodbath's performance at Wacken on August 5th. A statment on the band website says this will be an "exclusive one time happening...something that you're guaranteed to never see again as Mike will not be rejoining the band in any way apart from committing to this performance." The line up for Wacken will be: Mikael Akerfeldt - Vocals, Blakkheim - Guitar, Dan Swano - Guitar, Jonas Renkse - Bass, Axe - Drums.

EXODUS February 24, 2005

Exodus will begin recording their new album in early April. Andy Sneap will be the producer for the record, which will be the band's first with new vocalist Rob Dukes.

ALL SHALL PERISH February 24, 2005

The band has parted ways with guitarist Caysen Russo "due to differences." They have announced that their dates with Agnostic Front this spring will go on as planned.

INFIDEL February 23, 2005

Drummer John Grden from Pessimist, guitarist/vocalist Unholy Tim from True Unholy Death and bassist Rob Keller have formed Infidel. They will begin recording their full length debut Killing of Immortality in Juen.

THE ESOTERIC February 23, 2005

The building that was The Esoteric's home, studio and practice space burned down on February 22nd around 3am. Three members of the band have been rendered homeless, and the suspected cause of the blaze has been named as faulty electrical wiring. The band intends to continue with their touring plans anyway.

ZAO February 22, 2005

Long-time tour manager Marty Lunn has been tapped to fill in on bass following the departure of Shawn Koschik. He will make his debut with Zao on their upcoming tour. Frontman Dan Weyandt has contributed guest vocals on new albums by As I Lay Dying and The Juliana Theory.

THE GATHERING February 21, 2005

Vocalist Anneke van Giersbergen gave birth to her 7.5 pound son on February 20th at 7:30am. Named Finn, the boy is her first child.

NASUM February 17, 2005

Nasum posted an announcment today at nasum.com that they have received confirmation that guitarist/vocalist Mieszko Talarczyk died in the Tsunami which struck Phi Phi island in Thailand, where he was vacationing with his girlfriend, on December 26, 2004. His body has been identified and is being returned to Sweden.

TESTAMENT February 17, 2005

Chuck Billy, Eric Peterson, Alex Skolnick, Greg Christian, Johnny Tempesta will team up for a Reunion Tour in Europe, May 7th -15th. The tour will consist of only 9 shows.

CHICAGO POWERFEST 2005 February 17, 2005

The line up for the Chicago Powerfest, to be held on April 8th and 9th, has been announced. Bands scheduled to appear are: Tad Morose (Sweden), Morgana Lefay (Sweden), Twelfth Gate (IL), Ion Vein (IL), Archetype(OH), Imagika (CA), Silencer (CO), Warmachine (Canada), Katagory V (UT). This will be Morgana Lefay's first ever, US appearance, as well as Tad Morose's first headlining show in the US.

ANIMOSITY February 17, 2005

On February 9th, the band's rehearsal space in Watsonville, CA was robbed. Their gear was stolen, but the announcement states that band remains "optimistic" in light of their recent signing to Blackmarket Activites.

MARYLAND DEATH FEST February 16, 2005

The line up for the Maryland Death Fest, to be held on May 28th and 29th in Baltimore, has been announced. Bands scheduled to appear are: Misery Index, Pig Destroyer, Immolation, Cryptopsy, General Surgery, Regurgitate, Abscess, Impaled, Birdflesh, Rotten Sound, Wormed, Gronibard, Aborted, Capharnaum, Leng Tch'e, Ghoul, Lord Gore, Rottenness, Bodies Lay Broken, Splatterhouse, Xxx Maniak, Despised Icon, Kill The Client, Ion Dissonance, Prophecy, Warscars, Screaming Afterbirth, Amoebic Dysentery.

IRON MAIDEN February 15, 2005

According to an announcement on Launch, Iron Maiden has confirmed that they will co-headline Ozzfest this summer alongside Black Sabbath and an Anthrax line-up featuring vocalist Joey Belladonna, guitarist Dan Spitz and bassist Frank Bello. Also confirmed is a June 12th European date with Dream Theater and Within Temptation.

GRAMMY AWARDS February 14, 2005

Motorhead won the Grammy Award for "Best Metal Performance" for their cover of Metallica's "Whiplash." "Best Hard Rock Performance" was awarded to Velvet Revolver for their single "Slither."

NOCTURNAL RITES February 11, 2005

Nocturnal Rites will headline "Demons of the Opera," a two day event planned for the evenings of April 1st and 2nd. The event will take place at the opera house in Umea, Sweden and will be highlighted by the band's performance with a 50 piece philharmonic orchestra, conducted by Hans Ek. According to the statement, two other bands, Persuader and 6th Awakening, will also share the stage with the orchestra, with other bands also performing "the good old fashioned way." Nocturnal Rites are currently working on material for a new album and have just finished shooting their third video from �New World Messiah.� �Lost in Time: The Early Years of Nocturnal Rites,� a collection celebrating the band's 10 year anniversary, is set for release on February 21st.

ACTION ACTION / THE JUNIOR VARSITY February 11, 2005

Following a show in Chicago, the two bands returned to their vans to discover they had been robbed. Large amounts of cash and other property were found missing.

VEHEMENCE February 10, 2005

Vehemence has chosen Sean Vandgrift (ex-From a Second Story Window) as their now vocalist. They will debut their new vocalist in April when they begin a tour with Crematorium, The Red Death, and Losa. Their west coast run in March with Thine Eyes Bleed, will feature temporary vocalist Bryan Edwards (Clifton).

BRAND NEW SIN February 9, 2005

Century Media Records has signed Syracuse-based Brand New Sin to their roster. The band's next album, tentatively entitled, Recipe for Disaster, is set for a summer release. Brand New Sin will begin a tour with Motorhead and Corrosion of Conformity on March 9th, in support of Black and Blue, a four-track EP set for release in March.

CRYPTOPSY February 8, 2005

The band has announced that Dan Mongrain (Martyr) will fill in for departed guitarist Jon Levasseur for the dates on their upcoming tour, which will proceed as scheduled. Cryptopsy has placed a statement on their website, wishing Levasseur "all the best for his future plans and goals."

NIGHTWISH February 8, 2005

Nightwish has announced they will delay their North American tour, which had been scheduled for April and May. The postponement was caused by solo commitments in Scandinavia for their vocalist, Tarja Turman. The dates will be rescheduled for September and October. A video single, "NEMO," will be released on April 4th.

MEGADETH February 7, 2005

Dave Mustaine is asking fans to help determine the tracks chosen for the upcoming Greatest Hits release. Fans are instructed to visit the megadeth.com forum by using this link: http://forums.megadeth.com/forumdisplay.php?s=1cdae2936010c7807d087938c1d4fde8&daysprune=&f=43 then follow the instructions posted on the "sticky" thread in the forum to vote for their choices.

SENTENCED February 4, 2005

The band has announced that their new album, which will be entitled The Funeral Album, will be the final record from the band. Sentenced stated in the announcment, "This album will be our last one. The decision is mutual, thoroughly thought over and final." The statement further explained that the decision was made in 2004 for many reasons and the band would play an "undefined number of farewell shows." A live DVD of the final shows is planned.

LAMB OF GOD February 2, 2005

Lamb of God has been banned from The Forum in Los Angeles. The owners of the venue, The Faithful Central Bible Church, reportedly decided to ban Lamb of God because of their name as well as their previous name, Burn the Priest. Due to the ban, the band will be unable to perform on the L.A. stop of the Subliminal Verses tour with Slipknot and Shadows Fall.

BLOODBATH February 2, 2005

Bloodbath has been confirmed to make an exclusive appearance at Wacken Open Air 2005. This will be the first live performance by the Swedish death metal supergroup. Their latest release, Nightmares Made Flesh will be released in the U.S. on March 8th.

CRYPTOPSY January 31, 2005

Guitarist Jon Levasseur has announced that after 10 years in the band he will be leaving Cryptopsy. In his statement he expressed a desire to "step back, lay low and explore other things in music." Levasseur also praised his former band stating, "I consider myself extremely fortunate to have broken through boundaries with some of the best musicians in the business."

KATAKLYSM January 31, 2005

Kataklysm has been nominated for "Favorite Metal Artist/Group" by the Canadian Independent Music Awards. The awards will be presented at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto, Ontario, on March 2nd. Other nominees in the category were: The End, Malefaction, The Reason, and Three Inches of Blood. Kataklsym will begin their tour with Danzig on February 18th.

CHUCK SCHULDINER January 31, 2005

Manic Music has pledged a portion of their proceeds from the direct wholesale/mailorder sales of Chuck Schuldiner's Zero Tolerance to The American Cancer Society. The two-disc set, which includes the unfinished Control Denied tracks Chuck was working on at the time of his death, will be available in the U.S. on February 22nd.

VISCERAL BLEEDING January 31, 2005

Neurotic Records will be reissuing Visceral Bleeding's debut album, Remnants of Deprivation under the title Remnants Revived. Scott Hull has remastered the recording, which will be issued with three extra songs and four video tracks. The release is set for April 18th. The band is scheduled to begin a week-long tour of the UK in May, followed by an appearance at the Rotterdam Deathfest on May 14th.

LAST CRACK January 28, 2005

The release of Last Crack's Burning Funkhouse Live has been delayed. The digital release is now planned for mid-February with the CD shipping shortly afterward.

NILE January 28, 2005

Nile is recording their new album, entitled, Annihilation of the Wicked, with Neil Kernon and Bob Moore. The disc is scheduled for a late spring release through Relapse Records. The band will begin a headlining tour of Europe in March with Dying Fetus and Necrophagist as support, then return to the States to begin touring with King Diamond, Behemoth, and The Black Dahlia Murder in April.

DANZIG January 28, 2005

Danzig will begin a month long tour of the U.S. in February, in support of their current release, Circle of Snakes. Black Aria II, Glenn Danzig's follow up to 1993's Black Aria which reached the #1 position on the Billboard classical chart, is expected to be released through Evilive in early summer.

INFERNO METAL FESTIVAL 2005 January 28, 2005

The complete line up has been announced for Inferno Metal Festival 2005, taking place in Norway on March 24th � 26th. Bands scheduled to perform: Morbid Angel, Candlemass, Dissection, Amon Amarth, Arcturus, Gehenna, Lamented Souls, Aura Noir, Green Carnation, Mortiis, Grimfist, Grave, Chton, Vreid, Mantas, Bloodthorn, Seth, Sunn0))), Horricane, Zeenon, Tsjuder, Gorelord, Deceiver, Naer Mataron, Nebular Mystic, She Said Destroy, Obliteration, Taakefer, Slogstorm, Goatlord.

SENTENCED January 28, 2005

Sentenced is set to release their as-yet-untitled new record through Century Media in Europe at the end of May. Hiili Hiilesmaa produced the album, which was recorded mainly at Finnvox and Tonebox studios in Finland.

DARK TRANQUILLITY January 27, 2005

The band's new album, Character, entered the official national charts in Sweden at number 3. The album landed at number 1 on the Swedish metal charts. Previously, Dark Tranquillity had reached number 47 on the Swedish single charts with their Lost to Apathy EP. The band will embark on a tour of Europe with Kreator in February.

SKINDEEP January 26, 2005

Skindeep has decided to break up. The band was recording their debut for Camp Fury Records. They will play a farewell show on Feburary 11th.

BLOOD STAINED DUSK January 24, 2005

Dageth (a.k.a. Patrick Panter), vocalist, lead guitarist and main composer for U.S. black metal band Blood Stained Dusk was killed in a car accident on Monday, January 24th. According to the band's statement, they had just released Continuance of Evil on Black Flame Records and were about to begin recording their follow up, The Black Faith Inquisition.

DEFIANCE January 24, 2005

Talks of a Defiance reunion show are being shelved. Instead, the band has decided to work on writing new material. They intend to enter the studio later this year.

GORGOROTH January 24, 2005

The band was unable to come to an agreement to continue with their former label, Season of Mist. Season of Mist will still handle the remastered reissue of Gorgoroth's classic albums, Pentagram, Antichrist, and Under the Sign of Hell, in limited digipack format with guitar picks.

WINDIR January 22, 2005

Windir performed one last concert to bid farewell to the band's frontman and founder, Valfar, who died in January 2004. The concert took place on September 3, 2004, the day of what would have been Valfar's 26th birthday. A DVD of the concert is being released this February though Tabu Recordings. The DVD, entitled, SognaMetal, will also contain live clips, backstage material, photo gallery, and an interview with Valfar from Norwegian national tv.

MEGADETH January 21, 2005

The lawsuit filed by former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson against singer-guitarist David Mustaine, disputing the legitimacy of a May 2004 settlement agreement and seeking at least $18.5 million in damages, was dismissed by a federal judge in New York on January 13th, according to The Hollywood Reporter.com. The article also states that Ellefson's attorney has already filed a notice of appeal, and that a countersuit filed by Mustaine agains Ellefson remains pending.

FATES WARNING January 21, 2005

Following the departure of Mark Zonder, the band has announced the drummers for their upcoming European shows. Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) will join them on drums for the Headway festival. Nick D'Virgilio (Spock's Beard) will handle drumming duties for the scheduled February dates.

SKINLESS January 21, 2005

Vocalist Jason Keyser has been added to the Skinless lineup following the departure of Sherwood Webber. Keyser is the brother of bass player Joe Kyser. The new lineup will debut onstage in Providence, RI on March 4th. The band plans to enter the studio by the end of 2005 to record a new album for release through Relapse Records in 2006. The band recently released a DVD, entitled Skinflick.

FALCON January 21, 2005

Falcon have canceled the European dates scheduled for April. A family emergency prevents bassist / keyboardist Greg Lindstrom from making the trip, and vocalist / guitarist Perry Grayson has announced that the band will not proceed with the tour without him.

VADER January 21, 2005

The band will be entering Hertz Studio, Bialystok in July to record a new MCD for release in 2005. The working title for the MCD is The Art of War. It will feature only new songs and will also contain a bonus video clip for the title track.

HIGH ON FIRE January 21, 2005

High on fire is scheduled to appear at the 2005 Noise Pop Festival in San Francisco alongside acts such as the Polyphonic Spree, immediately following their February tour with Planes Mistaken for Stars and Kylesa. Their new album Blessed Black Wings is set for a February 1st release.

UNEARTH January 21, 2005

The band recently shot a new video for the track "Zombie Autopilot" with director Greg Kaplan. In February Unearth will begin a tour with Atreyu, Norma Jean and Scars of Tomorrow.

MASTODON January 21, 2005

Mastodon have announced a European headining tour to commence on February 9th in Glasgow, UK and to conclude on March 11th in Helsinki, Finland. Labelmates Burst have been confirmed as support, with additional support to be announced.

SIX FEET UNDER January 21, 2005

A video for "Shadow of the Reaper" from the forcoming release 13 was shot on January 8th "right in the middle of the flooding heart of Hollywood, CA." The video was directed by Gary Smithson. 13 is set for release on March 22nd.

MORTIIS January 20, 2005

Mortiis are at work on a new single, "Decadent & Desperate," scheduled for an April release in the U.K., with a video of the song planned for release just prior to the single. The single is expected to include an as yet un-named new song plus re-mixed tracks from The Grudge. Work on the video is due to commence "shortly." An as yet untitled DVD is planned for release in May. The press release also states, "the reclusive one is to take a bride."

TESTAMENT January 19, 2005

The band has announced they will re-release the 1991 documentary Seen Between the Lines on DVD this spring. The documentary contains live footage, promotional music videos, rare video clips, as well as behind the scenes and candid footage.

SUSPERIA January 19, 2005

The band is nearing completion of a video for "Devil May Care," the second video from Unlimited. The video will feature highlights from Susperia's recent European tour. Unlimited has recently been nominated for the Best Metal Album catagory of Norway's Alarum Awards alongside fellow nominees Enslaved, Red Harvest and Khold.

NEVERMORE January 18, 2005

The band will enter Backstage Studios in England to begin recording a new album with producer Andy Sneap. The album will be their first with new guitarist Steve Smyth. Nevermore plans to debut some of the new matial during their European tour in March. Additionally, Andy Sneap is currently remixing 2003's Enemies of Reality for release with "altered" cover artwork, promotional video clips and a live video. The new version will replace the existing album in stores in March. Fans who have already purchased the album can special order the CD without artwork or jewelcase for only $5, including shipping, from Century Media's web shop; order confirmations will include a link for downloadable revised artwork.

ARCTURUS January 18, 2005

Simen Hestn�s (Vortex of Dimmu Borgir and Borknagar) recently joined the band as lead vocalist. His first appearance with the band will be at the Inferno Metal Festival in London on January 27th. The band has signed to Season of Mist and will be entering the studio in February to record their new album, scheduled for an August release.

CROWBAR January 18, 2005

Candlelight Records will premiere the track "Dead Sun" from Crowbar's upcoming new album, Lifesblood for the Downtrodden, on the label's recently launched U.S. website beginning January 22nd. The record is set for release on February 7th. Also on the 7th, they will also begin a tour in support of the album alongside labelmates Entombed, ProPain and The Mighty Nimbus.

MERCENARY January 18, 2005

The band won all three of the Danish Metal Awards they had been nominated for: album of the year, vocal performance of the year, and guitarist of the year. An MP3 of the song "Firesoul" is available at the Mercenary and Century Media websites. Mercenary are currently on tour in Europe with Brainstorm and At Vance.

HEARSE January 18, 2005

Hearse have completed recording their 3rd album, entitled The Last Ordeal at The White Chapel Studios in Stockholm with Jonas Elder. The record is scheduled for release by Karmageddon Media this summer. An extended EP, entitled Cambodia will be released on January 31st, containing the title track, 2 new songs exclusive to the EP, as well as rare and unreleased tracks.

DKT / MC5 January 18, 2005

Gilby Clarke (ex-Guns N' Roses) has joined DKT / MC5. The band will begin a European tour in February.

KATAKLYSM January 17, 2005

Kataklysm have parted ways with drummer Martin Maurais, citing "personal and professional reasons." Max Duhamel, who performed on five past Kataklysm albums including Shadows and Dust, has been named as his replacement. Kataklysm will be direct support for the Danzig tour with Trivium and Eyes of Fire, beginning on February 18th.

CRISIS January 17, 2005

Crisis have added drummer Ryan Ball to the line up. Karyn Crisis is one of the women featured on this week's episode of Uranium, entitled "Chicks in Metal," airing on Fuse beginning January 21st.

NORMA JEAN January 15, 2005

Norma Jean have released a track entitled, "Vertebraille: Choke that Thief Called Dependency," from their forthcoming Solid State release, O God the Aftermath, due out on March 1st. The band will embark on a tour of the States with Atreyu, Unearth and Scars of Tomorrow in February and will do a guitar giveaway with Hot Topic in April.

AGORAPHOBIC NOSEBLEED January 14, 2005

A new video for the song, "Mosquito Holding Human Cattle Prod," has been posted at the Relapse Records website. Agoraphobic Nosebleed is currently working on their next full length release, tenitively scheduled for a fall release.

SIX FEET UNDER January 14, 2005

On January 13th, vocalist Chris Barnes successfully underwent knee surgery. According to a post on the Six Feet Under website, he planned to have his doctor videotape the surgery and will be posting the footage on the site.

GOD FORBID January 14, 2005

God Fobid will enter the studio on May 1st to record their new album entitled, IV: Constitution of Treason, which is set for a fall release. The band will be participating in the Virigin Megastore show in Times Square, NYC, on January 20th to help raise funds for the Tsunami relief effort. In mid-Februrary, they will be part of a Unranium special, "Future Headliners," for Fuse TV. April will find the band embarking on a headlining tour of the U.S.

FATES WARNING January 14, 2005

Fates Warning will begin shooting a video for "Simple Human" with director Jerry Clubb on January 23rd.

NAPALM DEATH January 14, 2005

The band is working with Century Media and labelmates The Haunted and Heaven Shall Burn to produce a single to raise money to aid the Tsunami relief effort. The single will be limited to 1,000 hand-numbered copies with copies 1-10 being auctioned off on Ebay and the remainder will only be available at Napalm Death's two exclusive pre-listening shows (detailed below) or directly through the bands. After the single is sold out all proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross.

MORBID ANGEL January 14, 2005

Original vocalist and bassist David Vincent has rejoined Morbid Angel. The band is planning to begin a series of tours, starting with a U.S. trek with Soulfly, then on to Europe in March.

STRAPPING YOUNG LAD January 14, 2005

Century Media has posted an MP3 of the track "Shitstorm" from Strapping Young Lad's forthcoming album Alien. On February 8th, the first segment of "The Making of Alien" will be posted, with new segments being posted every Tuesday leading up to the March 22nd release of the album.

AKERCOCKE January 14, 2005

Guitarist Paul Scanlan is leaving the band. Akercocke will continue to write their new album following his departure.

FROM A SECOND STORY WINDOW January 14, 2005

Vocalist Sean Vandegrift has left the band. He has been replaced by Will Jackson (ex-The End of All).

STRATOVARIUS January 14, 2005

Stratovarius has announced that their classic line up of Timo Tolkki, Timo Kotipelto, Jorg Michael, Jarl Kainufainen, and Jens Johansson is reuniting. They report that Timo Tolkki's health has been improving following his breakdown last April, and the band is currently working on new material.

BACKSTABBERS INCORPORATED January 14, 2005

According to the Blackmarket Activites newsletter, frontman Ryan Stabbers has "apparently jumped ship on the BSI US tour." Matt and Brian Serven will be handling vocal duties while other arrangements are made.

THROWDOWN January 14 , 2005

The band is entering Planet Z Studios next month to record their new album, Vendetta, with producer Zeus. The album is set for release in July. Throwdown will headline a two-week tour of the U.S. in March.

SHADOWS FALL January 13, 2005

Vocalist Brian Fair will be filling in as host of Headbangers Ball for two episodes, airing on January 29th and February 5th. The band will shoot a video for "Inspiration on Demand" in Puerto Rico at the end of the month with director Zach Merck. Shadows Fall will be touring in Australia, Japan and Korea throughout February, then returning to the States to begin their trek with Slipknot and Lamb of God in March.

THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN January 13, 2005

DEP will be performing live at the Virgin Megastore in Times Square, NYC, to raise money to aid the Tsunami relief effort. The performance is planned for Thursday, January 20th.

OVERKILL January 13, 2005

2005 marks the 20th anniversary of Overkill signing their first record deal. Their 14th full length studio album will be entitled, ReliXIV, and is set for a March 22nd release through Eagle Rock/Spitfire Records.

MAROON January 13, 2005

Abacus Recordings has posted an e-card on their website for Maroon's forthcoming album, Endorsed by Hate. The album is set for a February 8th release.

NAPALM DEATH January 12, 2005

Two exclusive pre-listening shows will be performed by Napalm Death to promote their upcoming release, The Code is Red . . . Long Live the Code. One of the three guests appearing on the album (Jello Biafra, Jamey Jasta and Jeff Walker), is planned to join the band during these appearances. The shows will be held on January 22nd in Bochum (D) with Heaven Shall Burn, Maroon, Do or Die, and End of Days and on January 24th in London (UK) with Mistress and Cephalic Carnage.

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE January 12, 2005

Vocalist Howard Jones came down with laryngitis before the January 9th show in Mississauga, Ontario and was unable to perform. Unearth vocalist Trevor Phipps stepped up to the mic in his place.

KULT OV AZAZEL January 11, 2005

Nocturath has left the band and has been replaced by VJS (Demoncy, Incursus). His first official appearances will be on the split releases that have been recorded with Vrolok and Horn of Valere. Kult Ov Azazel will be entering Mana Studios in Tampa, FL to record their next release, The World, the Flesh & the Devil.

NAGLFAR January 10, 2005

Century Media Records has signed Naglfar to a new worldwide multi-album contract. Vocalist Jens Rydén is departing the band; current bassist Kristoffer Olivius will take over frontman duties, and Morgan Lie will take over bass duties at the start of their planned European tour with Fintroll in April. Their new album, tentatively titled Pariah is currently being recorded in the band's hometown at Ballerina Studios, the same studio where they recorded their previous two records. The album is scheduled for a spring release.

AMORPHIS January 10, 2005

New vocalist Tomi Joutsen appeared onstage with the band for the first time on January 8th at a Tsunami benefit show in Helsinki. Amorphis is scheduled to tour the U.S. in March.

MAYHEM January 10, 2005

Mayhem has been nominated for a Norwegian Grammy Award. The awards show will take place on February 26th. The other nominees in the metal category are Enslaved and Black Debbath.

DEVILDRIVER January 10, 2005

DevilDriver is currently at work on their sophmore Roadrunner release entitled, The Fury of Our Maker's Hand. The disc will be produced by Colin Richardson and is set for a spring release.

VIRGIN MEGASTORES January 10, 2005

On Thursday, January 20th, 100 bands will perform live in a single day at various Virgin Megastore locations to raise money to aid the Tsunami relief effort.

BRAVE January 9, 2005

Brave have announced that they will be donating 100% of the January 2005 sales of their new album Passages to the Red Cross relief effort. Copies of the album are available through their website.

DARK TRANQUILLITY January 7, 2005

An MP3 of the new single, "Lost to Apathy," has been posted at the Century Media website. The video for the track is expected to air on Headbangers Ball and Uranium early next month. Dark Tranquillity's new album, 'Character,' will be released in the U.S. on January 25th.

FINNISH METAL EXPO January 7, 2005

Plans for the Finnish Metal Expo, to be held January 28-29 at the Cablefactory in Helsinki, Finland, are being finalized. Instrument clinics, exhibition stands, and live performances are among the events being planned.

DEVILINSIDE January 6, 2005

Drummer Dan Johnson (ex-With Dead Hands Rising), vocalist Joe Talbot (Richard Pryor on Fire), and bassist Patrick Morris (Demonicon) have been added to the lineup. Devilinside will begin touring with Suffocation in February, continue touring in March in support for Cryptopsy.

SYSTEM OF A DOWN January 6, 2005

The band is currently mixing their two-disc set entitled, 'Mesmerize/Hypnotize,' with Andy Wallace. The first disc is expected to be released in the Spring, with the second disc being released six months later.

RECOURSE January 4, 2005

The Maryland-based "death-core" band, Recourse, will be entering the studio on January 14th to record two new tracks to be included with the re-issue of their debut album, 'Weakening the Structure' by Skinlifter Records. Production for the tracks will be handled by John Gallagher of Dying Fetus and Steve Carr (Dying Fetus, Misery Index, Arsis) will do the engineering. A video for the track "Fallout" is nearing completion and will be viewable on the band's website next month.

VICTORY RECORDS January 5, 2005

Victory Records reports that three of their bands have charted this week on Billboard's Top 200: Taking Back Sunday (#113), Hawthorne Heights (#120), and Straylight Run (#196). Furthermore, four of their bands are on the Heatseekers chart: Hawthorne Heights (#1), Silverstein (#47), Bury Your Dead (#96), and Action Action (#111).

CIRCLE OF 5THS January 4, 2005

Circle of 5ths has announced that their final show has been cancelled. No reason was given.

MERCENARY January 4, 2005

Mercenary has received Album of the Year, Vocalist of the Year, and Guitarist of the Year honors from the Danish Metal Awards. Their winning album '11 Dreams' will be released in the U.S. on February 8th.

THRESHOLD January 4, 2005

Plans for Threshold to release a Special Edition version of their 1998 record 'Clone' through Inside Out have been put on hold. A suitable arrangement between the band's old and new labels is being sought.

FALLEN ANGELS January 3, 2005

Pivotal Rockordings has announced an agreement with The End Records for North American and online distribution of Fallen Angels' debut. Europen distribution for the disc is still being finalized.

INSURRECTION January 1, 2005

Chicago's Insurrection has called it quits. Members of the band have started a new band named Veil of Maya.

NASUM December 30, 2004

An update posted at nasum.com reports that as of midnight (December 29/30) there has not yet been any news regarding the whereabouts of vocalist Mieszko Talarczyk. Talarczyk is missing following the tsumani which hit Thailand.

LIFEFORCE RECORDS December 29, 2004

Germany�s Lifeforce Records has announced that after ten successful years, they will be opening a U.S. office in Philadelphia, PA. The new office will open on January 10, 2005.

MEATLOCKER SEVEN December 29, 2004

Drummer Dave Krull has left Meatlocker Seven to resume full time duties with Gorilla Monsoon. He has been replaced by Lincoln McCulloch (Pariah, Self Inflicted). Guitarist Tony Oliveira has also departed, and has been replaced by Darryl Curren (Pariah).

SUBLIMINAL VERSES TOUR December 28, 2004

A special pre-sale for the Subliminal Verses tour featuring Slipknot / Lamb of God / Shadows Fall begins on December 28 at http://www.slipknot1.musictoday.com. Tickets go on sale to the general public on January 15.

CIRCLE OF 5THS December 28, 2004

Circle of 5ths has decided to �call it a day.� Their final show will be January 15, 2005.

NASUM December 27, 2004

According to an official statement on nasum.com, vocalist Mieszko Talarczyk is missing in Thailand following the massive tsunami which struck the region. He was vacationing with his girlfriend, who has been located and is currently hospitalized with injuries.

SATYRICON December 23, 2004

Touring guitarists Steinar Gundersen and Arnt Gronbech have been charged with administering a stupefying drug and sexual assault in Toronto. They allegedly drugged and raped a female fan after she accompanied them onto their tourbus following their performance at a local venue.

SCRAP METAL RECORDS December 22, 2004

Scrap Metal Records has announced that they have aquired Crook'd Records. Scrap Metal Records will be the new home of Nasty Savage, and the label plans to issue 'The New Wave of British Heavy Metal Singles,' Martin Popoff's latest book, as well as Ulysses Siren's album 'Above the Ashes,' featuring two demos recorded in the mid-80s, in early 2005.

PAUL DIANNO December 19, 2004

According to TotalRock.com, promoters of the Tel Aviv show "strongly" deny that the reported December 10 attack occurred.

AURORA BOREALIS December 19, 2004

Aurora Borealis has begun working on their 5th release, with drummer Tony Laureano (Nile, Dimmu Borgir, AngelCorpse) rejoining the lineup. The band will be entering Nightsky Studios to begin recording on January 31st.

DEVOURMENT December 19, 2004

Underground death metal band Devourment have announced that they have reformed. A new album is expected in 2005.

STRAPPING YOUNG LAD December 17, 2004

Strapping Young Lad will premiere music from their upcoming release Alien at the Century Family's Christmas BallS on Monday, December 20. The album is currently set for release on March 22, 2005.

PSYCHOTOGEN December 17, 2004

Founding bassist Tony Pernia has amicably parted ways with Psychotogen. The band is currently in search of a replacement.

DARKTHRONE December 16, 2004

After being nominated for the Norwegian Alarm Awards, drummer Fenriz commented in a Norwegian newspaper, " . . . we have no interest in being part of the glitter and showbiz side of the music industry." Darkthrone was subsequently removed from the list of nominees.

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA December 16, 2004

The newest Trans-Siberian Orchestra album, The Lost Christmas Eve, released on October 12th, has been certified gold after six weeks. TSO's two previous holiday albums, Christmas Eve & Other Stories and The Christmas Attic, have been certified double platinum and platinum respectively.

SATYRICON December 15, 2004

The remaining dates on Satyricon's tour (Cleveland, Philadelphia, Worcester, West Springfield, New York) have been cancelled. No other details are available at this time.

BLEEDING THROUGH / THROWDOWN December 15, 2004

The December 20 episode of MTV's "Battle for OZZfest" will feature Bleeding Through and Throwdown. In this week's storyline, the competitors perform with Ozzfest bands.

DIMEBAG DARRELL December 14, 2004

A public memorial service for guitarist Dimebag Darrell will take place tonight, December 14, at 8pm. The service will be held at the Arlington Convention Center in Arlington, Texas.

PAUL DIANNO December 11, 2004

During his performance last night in Tel Aviv, Israel, former Iron Maiden singer Paul Dianno was attacked by a crazed fan. Security put a stop to the attack and a shaken Dianno finished the show.

SNAPCASE December 10, 2004

The band has called it quits, citing "...an impasse where our core fan-base had been dwindling due to disenfranchisement with our newer material..." in addition to other reasons for their decision. Snapcase will play their farewell show in their hometown, Buffalo, NY, on January 22nd.

DAMAGEPLAN (update 4) December 10, 2004

The following statement has been released by Elektra/Atlantic:

DECEMBER 10, 2004

DAMAGEPLAN TRAGEDY UPDATE

BAND ISSUES STATEMENTS

As has been widely reported in the media, Elektra/Atlantic recording group Damageplan suffered a horrible tragedy at their show in Columbus, Ohio on Wednesday night.� Guitarist Dimebag Darrell was shot and killed, as was the band�s head of security, Jeffrey �Mayhem� Thompson, an employee of the club, Erin Halk, and a member of the audience, Nathan Bray.� Chris Paluska, a member of the band�s management team who was serving as tour manager, was shot and is in critical but stable condition. John �Kat� Brooks, the band�s drum tech, was also shot and is being released from the hospital today. �

* * * * *

Damageplan made the following statements today: �

�With all his greatness and accomplishments on the guitar, DIME will be missed more for his giving personality, charisma, caring for others, love and most of all his HEART!! Twice as big as the state of TEXAS!!!!!!!!!!!! DIME gave it all�everyday to�each and every one of us and our lives have forever been hollowed without him...Thanks to all of you for reaching out to us in�this time of our immeasurable loss. REST IN PEACE BROTHER�DIME!!!!!!� - Damageplan drummer Vinnie Paul, brother of Dimebag Darrell

�Jeffrey "Mayhem" Thompson was not just a true part of the Damageplan family, but part of the whole Dallas music scene. He was friend to all, with a great personality. He bent over backward to help us all with his trademark phrases like "What can I do for you sir?" and "Coming up!" He also stated his willingness to protect us, saying "I'd take a bullet for ya," and unfortunately did in defense of our lives. He truly lived and died for his friends and made the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life to save ours. For this we will never forget. You will be missed big man.� - the Damageplan family

* * * * *

Atlantic Records issued the following statement:

�We are shocked and saddened by these horrible and senseless shootings.� This is a tragic event for the music community, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families, and the surviving members of Damageplan and their crew.� Dimebag Darrell was an exceptional musician and an extraordinary person.� Along with his brother and bandmate, Vinnie Paul, he was a member of the Elektra/Atlantic family for the past 14 years, and he will be deeply missed.� The bravery displayed by Damageplan, their crew, their fans, and the local police will never be forgotten.��

GRAMMY AWARDS  December 10, 2004

Nominations for this year's Grammy Awards have been announced.
Best Metal Performance: Cradle of Filth, Hatebreed, Killswitch Engage, Motörhead, Slipknot
Best Hard Rock Performance: Incubus, Metallica, Nickelback, Slipknot, Velvet Revolver

MOTLEY CRÜE  December 10, 2004

After more than six years, all four original members of Motley Crüe have reunited. Their "Red, White & Crüe Tour 2005 . . . Better Live Than Dead" worldwide trek will begin in February.

URANIUM  December 10, 2004

On Friday, December 10, Fuse TV's Uranium will air a special tribute episode devoted to the music, career and fans of Dimebag Darrell. The episode will be followed by a broadcast of last month's performance by Damageplan in Dallas. The episode will re-air on Saturday, December 11.

DAMAGEPLAN (update 3)  December 10, 2004

A CNN.com article disclosed the identities of the other victims in the shooting that ended the life of famed guitarist Dimebag Darrell. The report stated: "Also killed in the shootings were Erin Halk, 29, a club employee who loaded band equipment; fan Nathan Bray, 23; and Jeff Thompson, 40, a bodyguard for the band."
Read the full story at CNN.com

DAMAGEPLAN (update 2)  December 9, 2004

According to the official Damageplan fan website, www.damageplan.net, reports that other bandmembers were shot are not true.
Official Damageplan Fan Website

HEADBANGERS BALL  December 9, 2004

A special edition of Headbangers Ball, focusing on the life and music of the late Dimebag Darrell will air this Saturday, December 11.

DAMAGEPLAN (update)  December 9, 2004

CNN reports that four people were killed and at least two were wounded in last night's shooting in Columbus, Ohio. Dimebag Darrell is the only band member confirmed dead "at this time."
Read the full story at CNN.com

DAMAGEPLAN  December 8, 2004

According to Columbus, Ohio's NBC 4, at least 5 people were killed, including Dimebag Darrell and one other bandmember, tonight at a Columbus nightclub. The name of the second bandmember killed has not yet been released.
Read the full story at nbc4i.com

ZAKK WYLDE  December 8, 2004

Renown guitarist Zakk Wylde has made a deal with 357 Custom Choppers to produce a series of nine signed custom choppers with matching die-cast replicas. The design of the nine custom choppers will reflect his "famous guitar schemes." In related news, Black Label Society has signed to Artemis Records.

DIMMU BORGIR  December 7, 2004

The December 13 episode of MTV's "Battle for OZZfest" will feature "a full day of controversy and mayhem" with Dimmu Borgir. Their song "Progenies of the Great Apocalypse" serves as the theme music at the beginning of every episode of the show.

THE GATHERING  December 5, 2004

The Gathering will be taking a break following the conclusion of their current European tour in order for lead singer Anneke van Giersbergen to give birth to her first child. They will resume touring in November 2005.

ENTHRONED  December 5, 2004

In response to advertisements, Enthroned have announced that they have not accepted the extended offer and will not be participating in a tour with Carpathian Forest and Tsjuder.

PIG DESTROYER  December 5, 2004

Pig Destroyer have completed a video for "Gravedancer." Director Vladimir Lik and Producer Dale Resteghini filmed the video on location in Brooklyn, NY.

KATAKLYSM  December 5, 2004

A video for "The Resurrected" was filmed in Los Angeles on November 8th with director Joe Lynch. A DVD featuring live and behind the scenes footage of the "No More Serenity" tour is planned for release in late 2005.

DIECAST  December 5, 2004

The band will begin the Heavyweights of Hardcore tour on January 4th with Hatebreed, Agnostic Front, Love Is Red, and The Autumn Offering. Off dates with Agnostic Front, Sinai Beach and Winter Solstice to announced soon. On December 11, Diecast's Dale Resteghini-directed video for "Medieval" will make its world debut on Headbanger's Ball.

MURDER WEAPON  December 5, 2004

Murder Weapon have confirmed that the band has called it quits. Their final performance is scheduled for December 26th in Richhmond, VA.

LAST CRACK  November 29, 2004

Rökker Records will release 'Burning Funkhouse Live' digitally on December 15, 2004 and in CD format on January 15th, 2005. The double album, recorded by John Machnik of Sleepless Nights Studios, will document Last Crack's sold-out November 15, 2002, reunion concert in Madison, WI and will feature songs from their two Roadrunner/Roadracer releases.

TURMOIL  November 29, 2004

The band will enter Water Studios in Hoboken, NJ in Mid-January with producer Ted Young to record three brand new songs as part of their upcoming retrospective release. Abacus Recordings will release the double-disc, tentatively titled, 'Staring Back,' which will contain all of Turmoil's recordings including the three new songs and b-sides.

WACKEN : OPEN : AIR 2005  November 27, 2004

The first artist confirmed for Wacken : Open : Air 2005, to be held August 4 - 6. 2005 are:
Accept, Axel Rudi Pell, Corvus Corax, Edguy, Eisregen, Endstille, Ensiferum, Illdisposed, Marduk, Mercenary, Nightwish, Obituary, Overkill, Potentia Animi, Turisas

THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN  November 27, 2004

A video for "Setting Fire to Sleeping Giants" was filmed by The Dillinger Escape Plan on location in Union City, NJ. Directed by Dale Resteghini, it features an evolving storyline.

ALL THAT REMAINS  November 27, 2004

All That Remains are confirmed as support for Killswitch Engage in Europe beginning January 19th. They will shoot a video for "This Darkened Heart" with directory Dale Resteghini on Tuesday, November 30.

KYLESA  November 27, 2004

Prosthetic Records has signed Kylesa and will release their Alex Newport-produced debut in March. The band will begin a tour with High on Fire and Planes Mistaken for Stars in February.

THE METAL UPDATE  November 26, 2004

After a hiatus, the Metal Update has risen from the grave and will resume delivering information to the inboxes of the metal nation as soon as possible. Thank you to all of our loyal readers for their patience and support during our absence.

JAG PANZER  November 26, 2004

Mark Briody, Jag Panzer founding member, guitarist, and main songwriter, announced that he will be endorsing Dean Guitars.
The Dean Guitars Artist Page for Mark Biody

SOILENT GREEN  November 26, 2004

Soilent Green will enter Mana Recording Studio in Tampa, Florida on January 5, 2005 to record a new album with producer Eric Rutan. Relapse Records is schedule to release the record in May 2005.

GOATWHORE  November 26, 2004

Rumors that they are breaking up have been denied by Goatwhore. The band has promised an in depth explaination for missing dates on the Cannibal Corpse tour after November 8th.
"Blood Guilt Eucarist" Video

BLACK SABBATH  September 3

Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford stood in for Ozzy Osbourne at the Camden, NJ Ozzfest stop when the Sabbath singer was forced to sit out due to bronchitis

SIX FEET UNDER  September 3

for the release of �Graveyard Classics 2� Six Feet Under will record AC/DC�s infamous 20 times platinum release �Back In Black� in its entirety

GORGOROTH  September 3

drummer Dirge Rep (Orcustus, Enslaved, Gehenna) and guitarist Teloch (Orcustus, Nidingr) will be session members for the upcoming European and Mexican tours

BOLT THROWER  September 3

vocalist Dave Ingram has left the band due to �health and personal problems� - recording of the next album will now be delayed until a replacement is found

DISMEMBER  September 3

bassist Johan Bergebäck has replaced Rickard Cabeza

HEATHEN  September 3

bassist Jon Torres (Thunderhead, Laaz Rockit, Angel Witch) has replaced Mike 'Yaz' Jastremski

ION VEIN  September 3

original bassist Brian Gordon has returned to the fold

MUSHROOMHEAD  September 3

vocalist Jason Mann has left the group

SEVER THE FALLEN  September 3

the band has called it quits

TAROT PRODUCTIONS  September 3

this new label has been started by drummer / vocalist Proscriptor (Absu, Melechesh) to furnish the underground communities with high quality releases - the first release will be Proscriptor�s �Thoth Music(k)� � also in the works are limited releases from Absu, Equimanthorn, Melechesh, Heaven�s Devils, Goreaphobia, Magnus Thorsen, Equitant, Divine Eve and Starchaser Network

OZZFEST  September 3

due to the approach of Hurricane Frances, the final Ozzfest date scheduled for Saturday, September 4 in West Palm Beach, FL has been cancelled

NEW SIGNINGS  September 3

Tribunal Records: The Chase Theory
Year of the Sun: Cradle To Grave

TESTAMENT  June 18

earlier this week, at the club in Slovakia, guitarist Eric Peterson took a bad fall down a flight of stairs and broke his leg in three places - Eric has had surgery to put pins in his leg and he will have a full leg cast and cannot walk - former guitar player Steve Smyth will return to the band to help finish the tour

GRIMFIST  June 18

the band has parted ways with drummer Horgh (Immortal) - according to Grimfist: "Due to his position in Hypocrisy, he is not able to provide Grimfist the priority needed, and therefore Frediablo and Ole has decided to start the search for a new skinsman."

BLACK SABBATH  June 18

Adam Wakeman, son of Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman, will be playing keyboards for Sabbath's Ozzfest appearances

DRAGONFORCE  June 18

after their final night on the road with W.A.S.P., the band was involved in an accident that left drummer Dave Mackintosh with a broken elbow - he will be out of action for at least six weeks - two UK shows will go on as planned with the use of a drum machine

BLOOD DUSTER  June 18

Tony Ford shattered his collarbone at a show last Friday during the third song of the set - the band will have to put future shows on hold while Tony heals

ACHERON  June 18

guitarist Christopher Wiford (The Conquering) will be filling in as second guitarist for upcoming live shows

OBLITERATION  June 18

Cesar Vallejo has rejoined the band as rhythm guitarist

IMMERSED IN BLOOD  June 18

Stefan (vocals) and Robert (guitar) have been released from their duties due to lack of commitment - the band is now searching for a new vocalist and is still searching of a drummer

NEW SIGNINGS  June 18

SPV / Steamhammer: Type O Negative
Metal Blade: Neaera
Neoblast Records: Red Tide
Deathwish Inc.: Nine
Retribute Records: Strangulation
Hellion Records: Sunseth Midnight

BATHORY  June 11

founding member Thomas "Quorthon" Forsberg was found dead in his home in Stockholm, Sweden on June 7 due to an apparent heart failure - Forsberg had a history of heart problems - he was 39

METALLICA  June 11

fans were treated to a special show at the Donington Park Download Festival on June 6 when Lars Ulrich was unable to play due to a medical emergency and Slayer's Dave Lombardo and Slipknot's Joey Jordison filled in

THEATRE OF TRAGEDY  June 11

Nell, female singer from The Crest, has been drafted as the group's new lead vocalist

FACE DOWN  June 11

the band has reformed with the following lineup: vocalist Marco Aro (The Haunted), guitarist Joacim Carlsson (General Surgery), bassist Joakim (Harju) Hedestedt (Construcdead) and drummer Erik Thyselius (Construcdead, Terror 2000)

VYNDYKATOR  June 11

after four years of existence, the band and vocalist Bob Mitchell have amicably parted ways - personal and private commitments as well as musical direction have led to this decision

HADES  June 11

former guitarist Ed Fuhrman has started a new band called Ten Ton Truck that is said to be much heavier than Hades with aggressive vocals and grinding riffs - meanwhile, former guitarist Dan Lorenzo is working on his second solo release

TRANSPORT LEAGUE  June 11

guitarist Martin M has replaced Dan J

VOIVOD  June 11

the band has approximately 25 songs in the works and plan to record with 'Nothingface' producer Glen Robinson in Montreal - the new material should surface in 2005

TAROT PRODUCTIONS  June 11

this new label has been launched by Proscriptor McGovern (Absu, Melechesh) to "furnish the planet with highly unique releases"

AGGRESSIVE MUSIC FESTIVAL  June 11

Molson, Step Up Presents and Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed, Mtv2 Headbangers Ball host), in cooperation with Clear Channel Communications present the Aggressive Music Festival on July 17 and July 18 in Glens Falls, NY - the event will feature Slayer, Slipknot, Hatebreed, Deicide, Agnostic Front, Candiria, Converge, Killswitch Engage, Shadows Fall, and more. . .

NEW SIGNINGS  June 11

Century Media: The Haunted
Relapse Records: Zombi
MetalAgen Records: Black Countess
New Aeon Media: Scenteria, Ad Vitam Aeternam, System Shock
Great White North: Paroxysm, The Mass, The Eternal Blade, Utopy

BLACK SABBATH  June 4

after initially declining an offer to join the reunion for Ozzfest, drummer Bill Ward has now reconsidered - the original line-up is now complete for their much anticipated headlining slot

MISERY INDEX   June 4

the band has confirmed that drummer Kevin Talley is �fully back in the band�

FLESHTIZED   June 4

bassist Garth Lovvorn and guitarist Casey Robertson have left the group � the new lineup features original drummer Gary White (Convergence From Within) along with vocalist Rob Kline (Pessimist, Psychotogen), guitarist Sonny Lombardozzi (Incantation, Seven Gates) & bassist Jason Flippo (Quinta Essentia, Bloodstained Dusk)

EIDOLON   June 4

vocalist Pat Mulock has been replaced by Nils.K.Rue (Pagans Mind)

PLANET X   June 4

bassist Rufus Philpot has been added to the lineup

PRONG   June 4

the band�s gear, including six guitars, was stolen when their trailer was broken into on May 27 in Dallas, TX

DEICIDE   June 4

Brian Hoffman has collaborated with Neal Moser to design the �Beast Master� guitar for the Moser Custom Shop

SLIPKNOT   June 4

�Vol.3: (The Subliminal Verses)� debuted at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart

NEW SIGNINGS   June 4

Baphomet Records: Bound In Human Flesh
Rising Realm Records: Dispatched
Lava Records: Nonpoint

BLACK SABBATH   May 28

drummer Bill Ward is attempting to negotiate a deal that will see him take his rightful place behind the kit for Sabbath�s Ozzfest appearances

SUPARED   May 28

on the heels of news that his band Supared has been laid to rest, legendary Helloween vocalist Michael Kiske has announced his �departure from the hard rock music scene� � he further stated: �I simply don�t fit into the metal-scene�

FALCONER   May 28

the band has parted ways with second guitarist Anders Johansson and bass player Peder Johansson in the wake of an internal fight after the gig in Motala, Sweden

BURIAL   May 28

new bassist Dan Egan (Scattered Remnants, All That Remains) will be handling bass duties on all upcoming shows and the new full length album

SATHANAS   May 28

guitarist Wayne Dudley and drummer Jim Strauss (Acheron) have been added to the lineup - new material is in the works

NECROTIC DISGORGEMENT   May 28

the band has recruited Jimmy (Forensic Dissection) for the vocalist spot and will soon record a full length

SLUDGE!   May 28

after 7 years, guitarist Dave Orkin has called it quits - the band will continue as a three piece with a new album due out Winter 2004

MEGADETH   May 28

Dave Mustaine has announced that a new studio album is due September 14th

NEW SIGNINGS   May 28

Crash Music: Flotsam & Jetsam
Century Media: Napalm Death
Magna Carta Records: Alex Skolnick Trio
SPV Records: �Tage Mahal
Metal Blade: Daysend
Conquer Records: Devilyn

BLACK SABBATH   May 21

the band that started it all will be headlining Ozzfest this year � the lineup includes original members Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi along with Mike Bordin (Faith No More, Ozzy Osbourne) on drums � original drummer Bill Ward has declined an invitation to participate based on his dissatisfaction with the contract that was presented to him

ICED EARTH   May 21

drummer Richard Christy (Death, Control Denied, Leash Law, Tiwanaku) is leaving the band to audition for the Howard Stern show as Stuttering John�s replacement - Bobby Jarzombek (Riot, Halford) will take over behind the kit

CANDLEMASS   May 21

the group has disbanded due to artistic differences � according to an official statement: �There will be no more gigs, no new album, no more doom! This is it... finished..........zero...........nada........out!!!�

CANNIBAL CORPSE   May 21

guitarist Jeremy Turner (Origin) will be replacing Jack Owen for upcoming tours � he has not yet been named a permanent member

MARDUK   May 21

bassist B.War has been replaced By Magnus Devo Andersson who was the second guitar player on the band�s first two albums �Dark Endless� and �Those Of The Unlight�

HELMET   May 21

bassist Frank Bello (Anthrax) has been drafted for the revamped lineup

PARADISE LOST   May 21

drummer Jeff Singer (Blaze, Kill II This) has joined the fold

CROWBAR   May 21

the new lineup for the European tour and beyond is as follows: Kirk Windstein (Down) --> guitar and vocals, Patrick Bruders (Goatwhore) �-> bass, Steve Gibb (Black Label Society) --> guitar and vocals, Tommy Buckley (Soilent Green) --> drums

SUPARED   May 21

the band, fronted by Michael Kiske (Helloween), has reportedly called it quits

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY   May 21

James Lomenzo (Pride & Glory, David Lee Roth, White Lion) will be handling bass duties for BLS�s Ozzfest appearances

EXTOL   May 21

guitarists Christer Espevoll and Ole Borud have left the band � their replacements will be announced later this summer

CRYSTAL BALL   May 21

due to problems with his health, Tom Graber (keyboards, guitar) has left the band after nine years

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE   May 21

�The End of Heartache� sold 37,531 copies in the first week and landed at #21 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart securing Roadrunner Records� fourth highest chart debut ever

LIZZY BORDEN   May 21

guitarist Alex Nelson was killed in a head-on collision the afternoon of May 17th, 2004

NEW SIGNINGS   May 21

Type A Records: Candiria
Camp Fury Records: Assisted Suicide Assembly
SPV Records: Dry Kill Logic (Europe)
Final Chapter Records: Mirror Of Deception, The Gates Of Slumber

MINISTRY   May 14

guitarist Bryan Kehoe (M.I.R.V., Jerry Cantrell Band, The Les Claypool Frog Brigade) has joined the ranks of Ministry and Revolting Cocks

DEADSOIL   May 14

guitarist Jens Basten (Night In Gales) has replaced Jan Olejnik

LOST HORIZON   May 14

guitarist Wojtek Lisicki has rejoined the band

DECEMBER   May 14

Eric Dellon (Shallow Water Grave, Zombie Apocalypse) has been recruited to fill the vocalist position vacated by Mark Moots earlier this year

INSISION   May 14

the band has parted ways with drummer Thomas Daun in a mutual decision � the band is working with a new drummer named Marcus Jonsson for the European tour with Suffocation � meanwhile, guitarist Toob Brynedal will be unable to take part in the upcoming tour due to medical reasons

ISENGARD   May 14

keyboardist Peo L�vholm has returned to the fold

GENERAL SURGERY   May 14

guitarist Johan Wallin and bassist Glenn Sykes (Regurgitate) have been added to the lineup

SUIDAKRA   May 14

former touring guitarist Matthias has joined the band as a permanent member

ENGORGE   May 14

the band has parted ways with bassist Mitch Coken for their upcoming Hordes Of Darkness west coast tour - Randell Salmon (Decomposed) will be filling in indefinitely

NECROTIC DISGORGEMENT   May 14

the band has parted ways with vocalist Joe Wolfe due to musical differences � the lineup currently features former Regurgitation members Ben Deskins, Tony Tipton and Jason Trecazzi, as well as Rob Lesniak (Dislimb) � the search for a vocalist is underway

LECHEROUS   May 14

the group has split due to musical differences � the members all intend to pursue new projects

LILLIAN AXE   May 14

frontman Ron Taylor will play his last show with the band at Germany�s Bang Your Head Festival

PROGPOWER USA V   May 14

the festival has sold out in less than one week - this is the third consecutive year that Progpower USA has sold out more than four months in advance � the event will take place on September 17 and 18 in Atlanta, GA

NEW SIGNINGS   May 14

DRT Entertainment: Fu Manchu
Tabu Recordings: Enslaved
Massacre Records: Black Abyss
JCM Records: Avenger Of Blood
Grau Records: Mourning Beloveth
New Aeon Media: Glittertind
Tribunal Records: Killing Theory
Earache: Municipal Waste
Metal Blade: Losa, Into The Moat

CANNIBAL CORPSE   May 7

guitarist Jack Owen has left the group as his �heart just wasn�t in it anymore� � the band is currently teaching another guitarist the set list for the �Wretched Spawn� tour

GORGOROTH   May 7

Frost will not replace drummer Kvitrafn as originally intended as his dedication to 1349 and Satyricon proved to be a conflict - vocalist Gaahl has been sentenced to 18 months in a prison for charges stemming from an incident in which he allegedly assaulted a man

NUCLEAR ASSAULT   May 7

guitarist Scott Harrington (Minus, Aimed Aggression) has been added to the lineup rounded out by original members John Connelly (v), Danny Lilker (b) and Glenn Evans (d)

DENATA   May 7

the band has called it quits due to �lack of inspiration�

PLANET X   May 7

guitarist T.J. Helmerich has replaced Tony MacAlpine

TRANSPORT LEAGUE   May 7

guitarist Dan J has left the band due to personal and economical problems � the search for a suitable replacement is underway

BEYOND THE EMBRACE   May 7

Chris Parlon (Marazine) has been recruited to take over on bass guitar

HEAVENLY   May 7

Maxence Pilo, Pierre-Emmanuel Pelisson and Fr�d�ric Leclercq have left the band due to musical differences and are in the process of starting a new project

EVOKEN   May 7

the band is in the studio recording their new album with new keyboardist Denny Hahn - John Paradiso will be holding down bass duties as the band has parted ways with Steve

BEHEADED   May 7

vocalist Melchior Borg has been added to the lineup in time for the recording of �Ominous Bloodline�

SEXDIGITAL   May 7

the band has completed its lineup with addition Berklee graduate Annemarie on guitar

THE DARKNESS   May 7

the Brits have reportedly enlisted Robert "Mutt" Lange (AC/DC, Def Leppard) to produce their next album

MACHINE HEAD   May 7

�Through The Ashes Of Empires� entered the Billboard Album Chart at 88, selling over 11,000 copies its first week

NEW SIGNINGS   May 7

Metal Blade: Goatwhore
Century Media: Napalm Death
Unique Leader: Beheaded
Trustkill Records: Terror
Conquer Records: Supreme Lord
Animate Records: Purgatory
Demolition Records: David Lee Roth, Twisted Sister
Listenable Records: Anorexia Nervosa, Jigsore Terror, Incantation (Europe)

DIO   April 30

bassist Rudy Sarzo (Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne) has been added to the lineup

NEVERMORE   April 30

Steve Smyth (Testament) has been added as permanent second guitarist � according to the band�s official statement: �He was the missing link in our dysfunctional brotherhood!�

TESTAMENT   April 30

"Metal Mike" Chlasciak (Halford) will be handling lead guitar duties for the European festivals scheduled this summer

HAVOCHATE   April 30

drummer Jon Dette (Slayer, Testament) and bassist Greg Christian (Testament) have officially joined the band

FATES WARNING   April 30

Mark Zonder will be leaving the band after recording drums for the next album, tentatively titled �FWX�

SINISTER   April 30

the band has officially split up - Rachel, Ron and Aad will continue their musical career with their new band Infinited Hate

GORGOROTH   April 30

Frost (1349, Satyricon) will replace drummer Kvitrafn who has decided to leave the band for personal reasons � meanwhile, Gaahl is standing trial for allegedly performing satanic rituals and torture on a victim - he could be sentenced for up to 9 years in prison

W.A.S.P.   April 30

drummer Stet Howland has returned to the fold for upcoming tour dates

KITTIE   April 30

the band has drafted Lisa Marx (To See You Broken) as permanent second guitarist

SKINLAB   April 30

the group has parted ways with drummer Paul Hopkins and guitarist Scott Sergeant

BAL-SAGOTH   April 30

drummer Dave Mackintosh has left to concentrate full time on his other musical projects - Wacken 2004 will be Dave's final performance with the band - the recruitment process for a new sticksman will begin shortly

ISENGARD   April 30

bassist Ted Lundin has replaced Janne "Goat" Tillman

OBLITERATION   April 30

Cesar Vallejo (rhythm & bass guitar) has left the band to focus on other occupations

COLD BLOOD INDUSTRIES   April 30

the label has decided to stop signing and releasing bands and focus on atmospheric and gothic metal sub label Ebony Tears � mailorder will continue through the Cold Blood Industries website

CRASH MUSIC   April 30

the label has signed an exclusive distribution agreement for the United States with Caroline Distribution - the company had been previously distributed by Innovative Distribution Network

VINNY APPICE   April 30

the drummer has enlisted guitarist and former Dio bandmate Tracy G to collaborate with him on his new project

MOTLEY CRUE   April 30

a former Moonlite BunnyRanch prostitute has filed a lawsuit against Vince Neil seeking unspecified damages of at least $20,000 for lost wages and other costs stemming from a 2003 incident in which Neil allegedly assaulted her when she and another prostitute refused to have sex with him until he paid $4,000 for each woman � Neil pleaded no contest earlier this month to misdemeanor battery in the incident

BURZUM   April 30

Varg Vikernes has had an additional 14 months added to his sentence as a result of charges for car theft and possession of a weapon while he was out of jail on furlough last year

SOILENT GREEN   April 30

on Monday night, former bassist Scott Williams was shot and killed by his roommate who then turned the gun on himself

NEW SIGNINGS   April 30

Sony Music: Judas Priest
Olympic Recordings: Incantation
Metal Blade: Primordial
Nuclear Blast: Disbelief
Osmose Productions: Yyrkoon
Napalm Records: Midnattsol
Galy Records: Anhkrehg
Majestic Rock Records: Million
Goodfellow Records: The Secret
Cult Metal Classics: Overlorde
Season Of Mist: Tsjuder, Esoteric
Perris Records: Stampede Queen, Machinegun Kelly

SUFFOCATION   April 16

bassist Derek Boyer (Decrepit Birth) has been added to the lineup

DECREPIT BIRTH   April 16

Risha Eryavec, who was part of the band in the mid to late 90's, has taken over bass duties - Mike Turner will be adding his skills as second guitar player

UNEARTHED   April 16

this new band features former Iced Earth members Gene Adam (v), Dave Abell (b) and Mark Prator (d), along with Bill Owen (g) of Iced Earth forerunner Purgatory

MISERY INDEX   April 16

former drummer Kevin Talley will sit behind the kit for all of the band�s upcoming touring activities - however, Misery Index is still looking for a drummer to fulfill future obligations

ACHERON   April 16

Stacey Connolly (Life Is Lost) has been made a permanent member

A LIFE ONCE LOST   April 16

bassist Nick Frasca has decided to leave the band to focus on other personal achievements � his replacement is Amir Ali Mohammed Azir Ashraf (The June Spirit)

REQUIEM AETERNAM   April 16

Alex Hern�ndez (Immolation) has joined the band to lay down the drum tracks for the upcoming album

OBLITERATION   April 16

due to personal reasons and an unwillingness to commit fully to Obliteration, Jose has left the band

LION'S SHARE   April 16

guitarist Bruce Kulick (KISS, Grand Funk Railroad) recently recorded a guest appearance for the new album

KRAZY FEST   April 16

Initial Record's annual music festival which was slated for its seventh year this summer has been indefinitely postponed - originally scheduled to take place May 28-30, Krazy Fest 7 will either be rescheduled later in the Summer/Fall or not at all. . .

HELLION   April 16

lead singer Ann Boleyn will be on the starting line as a qualified entrant in the 108th running of the Boston Marathon on April 19th

IN FLAMES   April 16

�Soundtrack To Your Escape� scanned 10,660 copies in the first week securing the highest 1st week SoundScan number in the Century Family / Nuclear Blast America history � the album landed at #145 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart

NEW SIGNINGS   April 16

AFM Records: Doro
Regain Records: Samael
Eclipse Records: Scum Of The Earth
Abacus Recordings: The Abandoned Hearts Club
Liquor And Poker Music: The Hellacopters
Firebox Records: Scent Of Flesh, Grave Flowers
Galy Records: Torn Within, Disphoria, Anhkregh, Augury

PROFOUND LORE RECORDS   April 9

this new label has been launched by esteemed metal journalists Chris Bruni (BW&BK) and Adrian Bromley (Unrestrained!) � the label will be dedicated to releasing exclusive limited edition vinyl -- both rarities / unreleased material and re-released albums

VICTORY RECORDS   April 9

Boca Raton based Undecided Records and Films will now be exclusively distributed by Victory Records in North America

SEVERANCE   April 9

Joe Dan de la Fuente has replaced guitarist Lupe Duque � the band is currently in the studio recording a new album

DEICIDE   April 9

vthe band has dropped off the planned tour with Superjoint Ritual because aspects of the deal were not to the band�s satisfaction

PAUL CROOK   April 9

the former Anthrax and Sebastian Bach guitarist has been drafted by Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor as the (Seat 1) guitar player for their rock musical �We Will Rock You�

CHUCK SCHULDINER   April 9

Chuck�s mother, Jane Schuldiner, has recanted on her vow to release the unfinished Control Denied tracks for free download in response to the Karmaggedon Media release of the material on the album �Zero Tolerance� � in her words: �His last masterpiece deserves more than to be released as unfinished bits of rehearsal room recordings on CD, or to be grabbed for free on the internet. It deserves to be finished by the rest of the band and to be released on a full-length album, titled: �When Machine And Man Collide�.�

NEW SIGNINGS   April 9

SPV USA: Monster Magnet
Listenable Records: Incantation
Roadrunner Records: Trivium
Earache Records: Ewigkeit
Trustkill Records: It Dies Today
Twilight-Vertrieb GbR: Hidden In The Fog
Saba Records USA: Left

DECEASED / OCTOBER 31   April 2

King Fowley recently suffered a mild stroke, and was brought on by a blood clot in his brain that was about the size of a walnut - King is expected to regain about 95% of the functionality he had before the stroke with the help of therapy

BLOODBATH   April 2

vocalist Mike Åkerfeldt (Opeth) has been replaced by Peter Tägtgren (Hypocrisy, Pain, The Abyss) � in addition, drummer Martin "Axe" Axenrot (Witchery, Satanic Slaughter, Nepehenzy Chaos Order) has been added to the lineup

DIMMU BORGIR   April 2

Reno Kiilerich (Panzerchrist, Exmortem) has been drafted as session drummer

CARPATHIAN FOREST   April 2

lead man Nattefrost had an accident that left him with a broken collarbone � the band will have to start the No Mercy Festival Tour without him and he will join the tour as soon as he is cleared to fly

SATYRICON   April 2

Trym (Zyklon, Emperor) will be sitting in for drummer Kjetil Haraldstad for the US tour as Haraldstad was denied a US visa

THERION   April 2

Petter (Master Massive) has been recruited as touring drummer

THORNS   April 2

mastermind Snorre Ruch has launched a new side project called Thorns Ltd dedicated to making experimental music tailored specifically for art exhibitions

PUNGENT STENCH   April 2

Mario Klausner has parted ways with the band due to time constraints in order to fully concentrate on his own band Collapse 7 - the split was amicable and Mario will continue to perform live with the Stench until a suitable replacement is found

DEAD WATER DROWNING   April 2

the band has broken up - each member plans to continue doing something music related - vocalist Nate Johnson has officially joined Premonitions Of War and drummer Jon Dow will be filling in for The Red Chord on their upcoming tour dates

REVOLTING COCKS   April 2

Al Jourgensen (Ministry) is in the studio with a revamped lineup rounded out by Mike Scaccia (Rigor Mortis, Ministry), John Monte (M.O.D., Mind Funk), Phil Owen (Skatenigs) and Mark Baker (Hellions)

RAM-ZET   April 2

bassist Solem has been replaced by Jon "Daniel"

EXULCERATE   April 2

original drummer Lee Eubanks has been replaced by Dennis Sanders (Disembowel, Mortality)

DISEMBOWEL   April 2

drummer Dennis Sanders (Exulcerate, Mortality) and bassist Matt Hernandez (Mortality) have been added to the lineup

MY RUIN   April 2

bassist Mat Dauzat (Hydrovibe) will temporarily replace Meghan Mattox who was recently sacked

BLACK MASS   April 2

The Blasphemous One has returned to the horde on lead guitar - the decision was made when it became apparent that Josef's work schedule was going to prevent him from committing to any serious tour plans - Josef will still appear on the new CD and will continue to contribute to the band

THE DUSKFALL   April 2

guitar player Joachim Lindbäck has decided to leave the band - Lars Lofven (Defleshed) will be session guitarist for upcoming gigs

SET ABLAZE   April 2

guitarist Dave Gonzalez has been replaced by former Upon Creation vocalist Yohannes Habtu - the band is currently working on new material

HELLRAISED   April 2

hailing from Virginia USA, this new act features former members of Seventh Gate, Carrion Lord, Black Mass and Stench Of Lies � the music is a mix of black, death & thrash metal

CANDLELIGHT / THREEMAN   April 2

Candlelight Records has partnered with Threeman Recordings to release all new and reissued catalog titles from the growing Scandinavian record label throughout the US and Canada - Threeman Recordings is owned and run by members of Entombed with Daniel Strachal - the label's roster includes The Project Hate, Murder Squad, God Among Insects and Entombed

CRASH MUSIC   April 2

the label has signed agreements for exclusive distribution with ZYX Music and RSK Entertainment that will see all Crash Music and affiliated labels titles distributed by ZYX in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France and Poland and by RSK in the United Kingdom

NEW SIGNINGS   April 2

Restrain Records: Cliteater
Black Lotus Records: Moonlight Circus
Black Market Activities: Paria
United Guttural Records: Exulcerate
Metal Blade Records: The Red Chord, Incapacity
Century Media Records: Nevermore, Strapping Young Lad
Saw Her Ghost Records: And The Sky Went Red, Two Stars Burning Sun, Signs Of Collapse

DIO   March 26

bassist Jeff Pilson (Dokken) has replaced Jimmy Bain � Pilson previously worked with the group on �Strange Highways� and �Angry Machines�

VENOM   March 26

guitarist Mykus has joined bassist / vocalist Cronos and drummer Antton to form the latest incarnation of the legendary band

CROWBAR   March 26

former Black Label Society bassist, Steve Gibb, has been added to the lineup on guitar

E-FORCE   March 26

recently married, mainman Eric Forrest (Voivod) has moved to France necessitating a lineup change � the new band is: Eric Forrest (bass, vocals), Lewis Leveque (drums), Denis Rousell (guitar) & Yann Ploquin (guitar)

BEYOND THE EMBRACE   March 26

longtime friend and bass player Adam Gonsalves has decided to leave the band to pursue other interests � he will stand in for the May tour, however, if a replacement is not found

TORTURE KILLER   March 26

the band has completed its lineup with bassplayer Torniainen

SECRET SPHERE   March 26

drummer Dave Simeone (Eldritch) has been recruited to sit behind the kit

.30 CALIBER   March 26

guitarist Adam Lovett (Lazarus Machine) has joined the fold - Erik Rutan (Morbid Angel, Hate Eternal) will record and produce the band�s debut release

ABORTIUM   March 26

the band has parted with bassist Lord Macarbe, so he can concentrate on his main band - vokillist Glen Savage will take over until a suitable bassist can be located

FOZZY   March 26

Zakk Wylde (Ozzy, Black Label Society) will make a guest appearance on the forthcoming album �All That Remains�

SLAVES ON DOPE   March 26

due to personal life changes, the band has decided to go on indefinite hiatus - Frank, Rob, Kevin and newcomer Andrew W. have launched a new project called All For Fame

TESLA   March 26

�Into The Now� entered the Billboard Album Chart at 37, selling over 31,000 copies in its first week

RICHARD CHRISTY   March 26

known in metal circles as the drummer for Iced Earth, Death, Control Denied, Leash Law, Tiwanaku, etc., Christy is in the running for a position as Stuttering John�s replacement on The Howard Stern Show

JUDAS PRIEST   March 26

the band has begun working on the new album with producer Roy Z (Halford, Bruce Dickinson)

STEVE RICHARDS   March 26

Steve Richards, founder of No Name Worldwide and manager, mentor and friend of many bands including Hatebreed, Mudvayne and Slipknot, died last Sunday after battling brain cancer

NEW SIGNINGS   March 26

Escapi: Moonlyght
Magic Circle Music: Jack Starr
Sudden Death Records: Remorse
Equal Vision Records: Codeseven
Crash Music: I.C.E. (Imperial Crystalline Entombment)

DIMMU BORGIR   March 19

drummer Asgeir Mickelson (Borknagar, Spiral Architect) has joined the fold as touring drummer

ANNIHILATOR   March 19

bassist Sandor de Bretan and drummer Rob Falzano have been named as the new rhythm section

MISERY INDEX   March 19

drummer Matt Byers has decided to part ways with the band in order to �move on and do other things in life� - former drummer Kevin Talley will be filling in for upcoming Albany, NY and Brooklyn, NY shows only � the search for a permanent replacement is underway

CALLENISH CIRCLE   March 19

the band has recruited Spike (Stormrider, Form, Speedica) as session drummer for upcoming gigs

PARADISE LOST   March 19

the group has decided to part company with drummer Lee Morris due to personal and musical differences

THERAPY?   March 19

Martin McCarrick (guitar, cello) is no longer a member of the band - all future recordings and live work will be performed as a trio

ABORTED   March 19

drummer Gilles Delecroix (Gronibard, Warscars, Belenos) has been added to the lineup

DREAMZFATE   March 19

vocalist Troy Daniels (Streets, Taken By Force) has replaced Ripper X

ISENGARD   March 19

bassist Janne �Goat� Tillman has left the band for family reasons

SINPHONIA   March 19

the dark progressive metal band has officially reunited and is in the process of getting a demo together

ANGRA   March 19

Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray) and Hansi K�rsch (Blind Guardian) are slated to make guest appearances on the next album due later this year

FEAR FACTORY   March 19

guitarist Christian Olde Wolbers has a Signature series 7 string model coming out from Jackson Guitars

NEW SIGNINGS   March 19

Nuclear Blast: Evidence One
Agonia Records: Thornspawn

THE CROWN   March 12

the deathrace kings have called it quits � according to an official statement: �Too many tours gone bad due to not at all professional tour arrangements is maybe the main reason for giving up.� � fans can look forward to the band�s final release �Crowned Unholy� a revamped version of �Crowned In Terror� featuring original vocalist Johan Lindstrand

PISSING RAZORS   March 12

guitarist Matt Difabio has left the band to focus on Single Bullet Theory

INTO ETERNITY   March 12

bassist Scott Krall has left the band for personal reasons - Troy Bleich (Dirtbred) will fill in for upcoming tour dates

POISONBLACK   March 12

Ville Laihiala (Sentenced) has taken over as lead vocalist in addition to his guitar duties

DISLIMB   March 12

the band has broken up � former members Rob Lesniak and Mike Connors are in the process of writing material for a new band called All Hope Is Lost

TRAIL OF TEARS   March 12

Kjetil Nordhus (Green Carnation) has joined the band as a fulltime member - as a result of this and a general disagreement about future plans, the band announced that Cathrine Paulsen has decided to leave the band

CREST OF DARKNESS   March 12

Kjell Arne Hubred has been added as second guitarist for upcoming live shows

MUST. . .NOT. . .KILL   March 12

New York's Brad Mader (All Out War) and Scott Murdick (Negative Outlook) have teamed up in Tampa Bay with fellow New Yorker Shawn "Freek" O'Boyle and local southerner Brian Jensen to form Must. . .Not. . .Kill

DREAM THEATER   March 12

last weekend, to celebrate their 15 anniversary DT played �When Dream And Day Unite� in its entirety � for the encore, the band was joined on stage by former vocalist Charlie Dominici and former keyboardist Derek Sherinian

JON OLIVA   March 12

Savatage's mastermind has dubbed his new solo project �Jon Oliva's 'Tage Mahal� in the interest of having a more creative moniker

TWISTED SISTER   March 12

the band is re-recording their multi-platinum album �Stay Hungry�

NEW SIGNINGS   March 12

Earache: Addiction
code666: Axis Of Perdition
The End Records: Lilitu
Crash Music: Twilight Ophera
Black Market Activities: Ed Gein
Crazy Life Music: Hypnotic Face
Galy Records: Anvil, Eradykate, Magister Dixit

ANTHRAX   March 5

the band has parted ways with bassist Frank Bello � the reason for the split has not been disclosed - Joey Vera (Armored Saint, Fates Warning) will fill in for the Japan / Australia tour dates

DIO   March 5

bassist Jimmy Bain has officially left the band - no replacement has been named at the present time - Ronnie, guitarist Craig Goldy and drummer Simon Wright will be entering the studio at the end of March to record a new album

BORKNAGAR   March 5

Tyr was unable to lay down bass tracks for the upcoming album due to personal reasons � as a result, he and the band mutually agreed to part ways on good terms - drummer Asgeir Mickelson acted as session bassist

ACHERON   March 5

guitarist Michael Estes has parted ways with the group � he has been temporarily replaced by Stacey Connolly (Life Is Lost), but the search for a permanent replacement is ongoing

ABORTED   March 5

the band has parted ways with longtime drummer Frank due to musical differences - Dirk (drums on Goremageddon & the Haematobic EP) will be filling in on the European tour with Cannibal Corpse

WINDIR   March 5

in the wake of Terje �Valfar� Bakken�s death, the band has decided to call it quits � a final double album will be released as a tribute to the fallen vocalist and all proceeds will go to Valfar�s family

THE OLD DEAD TREE   March 5

drummer Franck Métayer has decided to leave the band in order to devote himself to his personal life

PILLORY   March 5

the band's lineup has been solidified with the addition of vocalist Pete Adams - a full length release will be recorded in May

CANDLELIGHT RECORDS   March 5

the label has confirmed the North American license for all Tabu Recordings titles - formed in 2003, Tabu Recordings is owned by Tuba Records, Scandinavia's fastest growing independent distributor - the new partnership will see the US and Canadian release of all new and reissued catalog titles from the Norwegian record label through Candlelight�s stateside operation

ROBOTIC EMPIRE   March 5

the label has teamed up with Chris Smith (The Now, Welcome The Plague Year) to form a sub-label called Turnstile

STRATOVARIUS   March 5

Timo Tolkki was attacked last Sunday in Granada, Spain by a man armed with a knife � Tolkki was cut twice on the arm and punched in the face � he was taken to a nearby hospital where he was treated and released

DIMMU BORGIR   March 5

the band won the �Spellemannsprisen� (Norwegian Grammy award) in the metal category for �Death Cult Armageddon� beating out Enslaved and Old Man's Child who were also nominated

KITTIE   March 5

the group has settled its lawsuit against Artemis Records and will spend the month of March recording its third release �Until The End�

SAVATAGE   March 5

Jon Oliva, Zak Stevens, Chris Caffery and Steve "Dr. Killdrums" Wacholz will unite to perform a set from Savatage's entire discography in an exclusive performance at ProgPower V this September in Atlanta

NEW SIGNINGS   March 5

Scarlet Records: Withering Surface
Regain Records: Frontside
Candlelight Records: Belef
Napalm Records: Collapse 7
GWN / Grind It! Records: Utopy
Bloodbucket Productions: Time Of Death
Negative Earth Records: Deadlock

If you, your band, your label, your website, your 'zine or your friends have information that you believe would be of interest to Metal Update readers, please contact the Metal Update at editor@metalupdate.com

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