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Stratovarius - Jörg Back, But Paris Show Cancelled

January 11th, Stratovarius didn't perform in Paris as expected. They went on stage with promoter Oliver Garnier to announce that although this particular date was supposed to be a real party due to Jörg Michael being back in the band after his first therapy against cancer, Timo Kotipelto had been suffering from food poisoning since some time before Christmas. Although they tried everything that was possible, he was still unable to sing a single note, he said.

After the announcement, roadies cleared the stage that they had so carefully set for Stratovarius, allowing rumors that they had indeed hoped to perform until the very last minute.

Stratovarius is currently embarked in a European with German power metallers Helloween. It hasn't been stated when Stratovarius would be performing again, so it is to believe that they won't take the stage on Thursday January 12th in Lyon, France, as well.

Check the band's website for a more official statement at http://www.stratovarius.com.

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Source: wrathchild, attending the concert
Band profile: Stratovarius
Posted: 12.01.2011 by wrathchild | Comments (10)


Hellfest Open Air 2011 - First Confirmed Bands

Hello everybody!

After a great edition in 2010, all the Hellfest team is back to business and working hard on our next festival. We would like to remind you that Hellfest 2011, which will be held on the 17th, 18th and 19th of June, will be the last on these grounds. In 2012, Hellfest will move to a new place... We will not say anything else today but you can expect some great surprises.

Now let's speak about 2011! The start of the festival isn't for tomorrow, but time flies and as always we want to be the first to announce some of the bands which will be playing next summer! Don't expect any headliner today... negotiations are long and complicated, you'll have to be patient but we know that you are real connoisseurs and passionate people and we're sure that you'll like this first list, with bands playing different kind of music!

Once again, Hellfest will respect its ways and will not make any compromises despite the attacks! Punk, sludge, heavy, hardcore and grindcore, etc. in two words, a real festival of extreme music, by passionate people for passionate people!

Here is the list of the first confirmed bands for Hellfest 2011! Don't forget this is just the beginning:

Angel Witch
Bad Brains
Belphegor
Church Of Misery
Converge
Coroner
Dodheimsgard
Doro
The Exploited
Grave
The Haunted
Karma To Burn
Malevolent Creation
Mayhem "Liberation by evil" Exclusive special show !
The Melvins
Morne
My Sleeping Karma
Nasty
Orphaned Land
Raw Power
Septicflesh
Shai Hulud
Sodom
Therion
Triptykon
The Young Gods
Valient Thorr
Your Demise

MAYHEM will be the headliner of the Rock Hard Tent, and will offer a real unique and theatrical show, something dark and grim named "Liberation by Evil". The band promises us something macabre which will please and even chock the true black metal fans! A MAYHEM concert, like you've never seen before!

Limited edition "3 day pass" at a special price of ?99 (without booking fees) instead of ?129 are now available! Be quick, not all of you will have the chance to get one! This offer will be available from September 30th to November 30th.

We'll see you at the end of November for the next announcement! Those of you who haven't bought a 3 day pass by then at the special price will regret it...

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Source: hellfest.fr
Event: Hellfest Open Air 2011
Posted: 30.09.2010 by wrathchild | Comments (31)


Metal Storm & Hellfest: Contest Up Until June 6th!

Good news for all of you who've been trying hard to get the correct answers to the Hellfest 2010 Contest.

We're giving you one more week to dig the Hellfest website, so now you have until June 6th!
Still not enough? Well, ok here are a few hints that should help you:

1. When was the first band announced for the 2010 edition?
Hint: They play black metal

2. Which Hellfest 2010 band has never played live before?
Hint: Think French!

3. What type of beer is Hellfest's new 6.66% Hellbeer?
Hint: Seriously, search the Hellfest site again!

4. How many hectoliters of beer were consumed during the Hellfest 2009?
Hint: Hum, think... no, it's more!

To answer, fill the form here.

Don't waste your time! The contest will be over on June 6th (or June 5th at 24:00 if you prefer) and there will be no more extra time!
Hellfest 2010 will once again take place in Clisson France, on June 18/19/20. Come with us to celebrate the 5th edition!

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Event: Hellfest Open Air 2010
Posted: 27.05.2010 by wrathchild | Comments (2)


Anthrax - Vocalist Out, John Bush To Join For England's Sonisphere

As announced last week, thrash legends Anthrax regretfully cancelled the first three dates on the second leg of their European tour due to new vocalist Dan Nelson's unexpected illness. An additional seven European dates are also cancelled, those scheduled from July 22 to July 30. Anthrax is thrilled to announce that they will play the August 1 Sonisphere festival in Knebworth, England, with their good friend John Bush joining them for a very special one off performance.

The members of Anthrax have confirmed the departure of vocalist Dan Nelson. In light of this development, Anthrax's slot on the U.S. Slipknot dates set for August and September, has also been cancelled. Anthrax is already actively considering lead singer candidates, and look forward to hitting the road before the end of the year.

Source: anthrax.com
Band profile: Anthrax
Event: Sonisphere Festival
Posted: 22.07.2009 by wrathchild | Comments (36)


Metal Storm Awards - Staff Picks For 2008

With the Metal Storm Awards 2008, you, the metalhead, were given your say in which albums were the best of their respective genres in 2008.

We, the staff of Metal Storm, also had our own internal polling done to determine our selections for "best in show" of each genre. Just like you, we spent the month of February reviewing our final nominees for each category and voted for who we thought represented their respective genres best during the last calendar year.

As with some of the general MS awards (see Sludge, nearly a three way tie that was decided with, literally, Two Minutes to Midnight on the final day of voting), we had some close calls of our own to hash out. After much deliberation, much alcohol consumption, even more metal consumption, some heated words, a few fist fights, and one kick to the junk (sorry, Lucas, hope your "boys" are feeling better!), we've compiled our list of who we, as the staff, would hand out our awards to.

Now that you've had nearly two weeks to digest your results, and the initial furor over how "Band X should have won their genre, Band Y is complete bollocks and they should never have won, and Band Z should have been in a different genre" has died down, we figure the time is right to unveil our selections and let the bitching resume anew.

You may direct your comments, concerns, or outrage here.

Alternative Metal - Textures - Silhouettes
Atmospheric/Symphonic Metal - Haggard - Tales Of Ithiria
Avantgarde Metal - Transcending Bizarre? - The Serpent's Manifolds
Black Metal - Darkspace - III
Death Metal - Hail Of Bullets - ...Of Frost And War
Doom Metal - Mar De Grises - Draining The Waterheart
Extreme Doom Metal - Esoteric - The Maniacal Vale
Gothic Metal - The Eternal - Kartika
Grindcore - Misery Index - Traitors
Hard Rock - AC/DC - Black Ice
Heavy Metal - Enforcer - Into The Night
Melodeath/Gothenburg Metal - Hollenthon - Opus Magnum
Metalcore - Heaven Shall Burn - Iconoclast
Pagan/Viking/Folk Metal - Thyrfing - Hels Vite
Post-Metal - Cult Of Luna - Eternal Kingdom
Power Metal - Helstar - The King Of Hell
Progressive Metal - Enslaved - Vertebrae
Sludge/Stoner Metal - Ufomammut - Idolum
Thrash Metal - Hexen - State Of Insurgency

Best Cover - Heaven Shall Burn - Black Tears
Best Debut - Hail Of Bullets - ...Of Frost And War
Best Video - Dark Suns - The Chameleon Conflict

- The Metal Storm Staff

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Source: metalstorm.ee
Posted: 15.03.2009 by wrathchild | Comments (62)


The Old Dead Tree - Part Ways With Drummer

As posted on the official website:

Foued Moukid has stepped down from his drums wielding duties after 3 years in The Old Dead Tree. Foued has decided to devote himself to his other band Arkan in "full-time" mode, and also to others personal private projects.
"We had been working in this band together for almost 3 years and we shared some unforgettable experiences together all over Europe. We will obviously remain friends and this "break up" has been on very good terms from both sides. We would like to thank our friend and wish him the best of luck with his future ventures!"
Please note that all gigs scheduled - except Portugal - are still confirmed! A session drummer - Raphaël Antheaume- will replace Foued until his successor has been found.

Due to Foued Moukid's decision to leave the band, The Old Dead Tree is now looking for a new drummer.
If you are interested, please write to info@theolddeadtree.com with details about yourself, like your musical influences, bands you are/were involved in, live and studio experiences, etc, and of course the reason why you would like to join the band.
All information about the auditions will be given in due time once The Old Dead Tree has received your e-mail and details.

Source: theolddeadtree.com
Band profile: The Old Dead Tree
Posted: 21.10.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (1)


Savage Circus - Parts Ways With Thomen Stauch

As posted on Savage Circus official website:

Umea/Hamburg the 17th of August 2007

Dear Friends,

After the recent events at the Rengsdorf Rock&Blues Festival and the Rock Am Schloss Festival the band sees no perspective any more to go on with our drummer Thomen Stauch. Therefore we immediately release him from all duties.

Even though we are aware of his personal situation we cannot ignore the fact anymore that he is still not able to carry out his duties for Savage Circus. Already in summer 2005 Thomes started to cancel most of his all planed out promotional activities. In 2006 he canceled the Japanese shows and wasn't part of any other activity for the whole year. We gave him this entire year to solve his situation because we deeply hoped that he would be able to recover and to get back into pace again. But instead in spring this year Thomen almost canceled the Circle II Circle tour. Now he canceled two festival shows with extremely short notice again?

We are very sorry, but we cannot take this any more. We supported and backed Thomen up for over 2 1/2 years by now, but as sad as it is we must face that it is just not going anywhere. Even though we still do have a lot of understanding for his situation, we cannot allow the unintended but yet serious damage he is doing to the band in which all of us invest so much energy and work. We do want Savage Circus to happen, but we cannot see it happen with Thomen any more.

We are not looking back in anger, we'd rather like to look into the future. This does not dramatically effect the production of the Dreamland Manor follow-up, but we will need some time to decide and work in a worthy replacement, who will be announced shortly. Therefore the release date will move to early 2008.

We wish Thomen well and hope, that he will find his way.

With deepest regrets,

Emil, Jens and Piet

Source: savage-circus.com
Band profile: Savage Circus
Posted: 18.08.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (11)


Hellfest - Running Order Changes & Additional Events

There's been a change in the running order for Sunday: Animosity, originally scheduled to play on the Discover Stage, will play on the Main Stage from 3pm to 3:30pm. On the other hand, 1349 will switch to the Discover Stage from 8:15pm to 8:45pm after Orthodox (7:30pm to 8pm) and Klone (6:45pm to 7:15pm).

See the complete running order here (click the "Running Order" tab). The download files will be updated later...

New: along with this year's edition of Hellfest, free events related to the festival's "Hard Rock Metal" theme will take place in the city center of Clisson on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th. See the detailed list as well as a map of Clisson in the "Infos Clisson" part of the website (only available in French at the moment).
You can also download it here.

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Source: hellfest.fr
Event: Hellfest Summer Open Air 2007
Posted: 09.06.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (27)


Hellfest - Winners Of The Metal Storm Contest Announced

The contest is over and we're proud to announce the winners of the two 3-day tickets to Hellfest!

Marjorie A. from France

Péter B. from Hungary

The correct answers to the 3 questions of the contest were as follows:
Q1 - Which famous band had to cancel its performance last year at Hellfest is coming back this year?
Answer: Korn

Q2 - Which famous guitar manufacturer gave its name to one of the three stages at Hellfest?
Answer: Gibson

Q3 - What is the name of the famous local wine produced in the valley of Clisson?
Answer: Muscadet

Thanks to all of the participants! And remember, whether you win or not, don't miss Hellfest, this year's edition simply rules!
Hellfest will take place on June 22/23/24 in France and will feature more than 70 bands, including Slayer, Megadeth, Children Of Bodom, Dream Theater, Cynic, Immortal, Emperor... and many more!

Check the festival's official site and Myspace profile for more info:
http://www.hellfest.fr
http://www.myspace.com/hellfesteuropeanedition

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Event: Hellfest Summer Open Air 2007
Posted: 16.05.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (3)


Shaman - New Lineup, New Song, New Website

Drummer Ricardo Confessori has assembled a new SHAMAN lineup following the group's split last October. Joining Confessori in the new group are guitarist Leo Mancini, vocalist Thiago Bianchi and bassist Fernando Quesada. Check out a photo of the new group at HeavyLaw.com. A song from the revamped band, entitled "One Life", can be downloaded at this location*.

This website seems to be the homepage of the new Shaman. Note that it doesn't seem to be officially open, yet you'll find many information on the new band, and their new album entitled "Immortal." Why the band seems to be able to use the name "Shaman" and not "Shaaman" is still unknown.

*It can also be streamed at the new website.

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Source: roadrunnerrecords.com
Band profile: Shaman
Posted: 14.05.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (12)


Gaia Epicus - Looking For Touring Musicians

Posted on the official website on March 21st:

Gaia Epicus are ready to Rock the world! but there is one or should we say two problems with it. Number one: our guitar wizard Jokke doesn't feel like going all the way and cannot give 100% into the band. That's why we have decided to look for
a skilled guitarist who can act as a Live Stand-In player, and with time maybe become the next solo guitarist of Gaia Epicus. This is not something we want to happen but it seems to be the best for the band. Jokke is still a member of the band
until we find a better solution.
Problem number two: is that we are still seeking a new bass player, and have decided to use a Live Stand-in player also on the bass.
And with time maybe become the next bass player for the band, if you are the right person for the job. Anyone who feels they have what it takes should contact us at this email address - band@gaia-epicus.com

We have plans for concerts and maybe tours so we need new players fast !!!

To apply for the job you must be over 18 of age, and live in north of Norway or be able to travel there often. The location where the band is today is in these cities: Mosjøen, Mo I Rana, Nesna. So come on and show us your skills now!!!

Source: gaia-epicus.com
Band profile: Gaia Epicus
Posted: 21.03.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (1)


Royal Hunt - Part Ways With Singer John West

Posted on the official website on March 16th:

Royal Hunt and John West have decided that at this time (after numerous albums and concert tours) they are no longer able to contribute creatively to each other's future musical development. It's been a hell of a ride, but both parties feel like it is about time to move on and explore different musical paths - therefore, they mutually agreed to part ways as of March 16th, 2007.

"We're not ruling out possible future collaborations for a joint venture or a side project" - André and John state - "but it won't be under the RH moniker."

John had joined Royal Hunt in 1999 during the recording of the "Fear" album and he worked with the band until our latest release - live CD/DVD "Royal Hunt 2006." We'd like to express our gratitude to John for a great 8-year run and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Source: royalhunt.com
Band profile: Royal Hunt
Posted: 19.03.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (5)


Valhalla - First Two Albums Available For Download

The Spanish heavy/power metal band Valhalla have put their first two albums for free download on their website: www.valhalla-metal.com

These albums are sold out and no re-releases are planned.

Valhalla, featuring Soultiude's mastermind Jevo, have announced they'd be playing cover songs in 2007 to celebrate the band's 10th anniversary. They launched a contest on their forum (in Spanish) so that everyone can make suggestions about which songs they should cover.

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Source: valhalla-metal.com
Band profile: Valhalla
Posted: 11.03.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (11)


Gaia Epicus - Still Searching For A Bassist

Norwegian power metallers Gaia Epicus are actively searching for a new bass player after Hans Åge Holmen left the band in October 2006.

We are still in search of an great bass player...

You are over 18 and interested in trying out?
Then contact us now!!!!

We would of course like someone who already lives in Norway, but we are also looking for people in other countries.
For a place in the band, he would have to move of course, and would also have to be very dedicated to play the music of Gaia.

Gaia Epicus have released their third album "Victory" on January 26th on the band's own label, Epicus Records.

http://www.gaia-epicus.com
http://www.myspace.com/gaiaepicus

http://www.epicusrecords.com
http://www.myspace.com/epicusrecords

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Source: myspace.com
Band profile: Gaia Epicus
Posted: 04.02.2007 by wrathchild | Comments (0)


Apothys - Auditions For New Drummer Position

Through an unfortunate turn of events recently, Apothys is faced with the task of replacing their drummer. Auditions will start very soon.

Apothys is an established, original metal band out of the Woodbridge, Virginia area, and they have been generating a lot of buzz in the Northern, Virginia/Washington, DC area. They released a demo this past year that has garnered some great reviews, and is being played on several underground stations across the country, and a few overseas.
Apothys has also opened for some national bands, including Venom, Dope, Evergrey and Nevermore. Their music has been described as heavy, brutal and driving, and they have been referred to as "Virginia's Metal Monsters". They are also well respected by many bands that they have shared the stage with who view Apothys as being a very "tight" live band.
In the past year they have written more than enough material for a first album.
They are now faced with finding a new drummer, due to some unforseen circumstances. If you are interested and feel up to the task, send a message from this site or the Apothys site. If you are not familiar with Apothys, check out the Cold Shot Productions site or the Apothys site to hear some of their music, to see if you can play their music, and to determine if it is the type of music you want to play and be part of.

Please Note The Following:

Their influences are Black Metal, Doom Metal, Progressive Metal, and Progressive Death Metal. Send us your application if you meet the requirements. Leave your email or phone number on your message and we will get back to you.

Requirements: (Must have to be considered)

1. Have your own transportation.

2. You must own the necessary equipment to join the band. All of your equipment has to be reliable to play during practice and live shows.

3. Some source of income so you can always maintain, repair or replace your equipment as needed. You must be able to support yourself.

4. Attitude. Your attitude is a great deal towards the band. Apothys will not deal with a bad attitude. You also have to be social in the degree where you get along with the members. Do not allow your personal life to affect your playing or relationship with the band. Leave all that, and especially ego, at the door.

5. You have to have a decent if not a great amount of stage presence. The live show is a very vital part of being in this band. Just because you sit behind a drum kit doesn't mean you are not expected to have some level of interaction with the audience.

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Source: apothys.com
Posted: 19.12.2006 by wrathchild | Comments (1)