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ProgPower UK III - Festival Cancelled
The ProgPower UK team has posted the following announcement on the event's website:
This is the hardest decision we have ever had to make, but it is with great regret that we have had to cancel ProgPower UK III.
We have made no secret of the financial difficulties that have dogged our first two years, which is why we made a significant number of changes for year three. However, ticket sales have been extremely poor and, as a result, there is no way we can stage the festival without losing a substantial amount of money - again.
This decision has not been taken lightly and we are fully aware of both the disappointment and inconvenience it will cause. However, we simply cannot afford to keep pumping money into ProgPower UK and we can assure you that we are as disappointed about this as you no doubt are.
As a result of this, ProgPower UK LLP will cease trading with immediate effect.
Ticket holders who purchased tickets via cheque or Paypal through the ProgPowerUK website will be refunded by the method through which the tickets were purchased. This will be done within twenty-eight days.
If you purchased tickets at Bristol Ticket Shop, please contact them directly for a refund.
Please direct any enquiries to enquiries@progpoweruk.com All enquiries will be dealt with, but please be patient.
We would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported us over the past three years, and also thank Rene Janssen and his team giving us the opportunity to make ProgPower UK a reality.
The ProgPower UK Team
Read more ››
This is the hardest decision we have ever had to make, but it is with great regret that we have had to cancel ProgPower UK III.
We have made no secret of the financial difficulties that have dogged our first two years, which is why we made a significant number of changes for year three. However, ticket sales have been extremely poor and, as a result, there is no way we can stage the festival without losing a substantial amount of money - again.
This decision has not been taken lightly and we are fully aware of both the disappointment and inconvenience it will cause. However, we simply cannot afford to keep pumping money into ProgPower UK and we can assure you that we are as disappointed about this as you no doubt are.
As a result of this, ProgPower UK LLP will cease trading with immediate effect.
Ticket holders who purchased tickets via cheque or Paypal through the ProgPowerUK website will be refunded by the method through which the tickets were purchased. This will be done within twenty-eight days.
If you purchased tickets at Bristol Ticket Shop, please contact them directly for a refund.
Please direct any enquiries to enquiries@progpoweruk.com All enquiries will be dealt with, but please be patient.
We would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported us over the past three years, and also thank Rene Janssen and his team giving us the opportunity to make ProgPower UK a reality.
The ProgPower UK Team
Read more ››
| Source: | progpoweruk.com |
| Event: | ProgPower UK [CANCELLED] |
Turisas - Lineup Changes
Finnish folk metallers Turisas have issued a statement explaining a sudden change of the band's lineup:
We hereby announce, that we have been forced to hire a step-in accordion player to replace Lisko on all announced upcoming tourdates. We have an important show this Friday at Finnish Metal Expo (FIN) and two lengthy tours in UK/Europe and USA just around the corner - but no accordion player.
The thing is, we played a cool show in Groningen, Netherlands on 11th January and everything was cool. Then the next day, before the flight, some of us decided to check out Amsterdam really quickly, by train. Lisko had behaved in a bit hazy way during the trip, but it was nothing that weird (considering he is Lisko); however, he never showed up back at the airport. We got an interesting phone call, where he told that due to "special" reasons he wouldn't fly in the same plane with us. This alone was pissing us off a bit, but we decided he could do it on his own expense. However, after returning to Finland, despite our attempts, there has been practically no communication with the guy, apart from a couple of interesting SMS's (so apparently he's alive): no rehearsals, nothing. We don't even know if he's back in Finland at the moment.
This puts us in a difficult situation: with a lot of pre-arrangements like flights and visas to be done, and with all our upcoming responsibilities we have no other option than to release Lisko from his duties for an undetermined time period, starting from today. Luckily for us, we already managed to get a replacement for him on such a short warning time: the step-in accordionist for Spring 2008 will be Netta Skog, who also helped us out with the latest European tour in October-November. No permanent accordion player will be added to the current line-up at this point. Turisas also wants to point out that NO shows will be affected by the small change in the line-up.
We hereby announce, that we have been forced to hire a step-in accordion player to replace Lisko on all announced upcoming tourdates. We have an important show this Friday at Finnish Metal Expo (FIN) and two lengthy tours in UK/Europe and USA just around the corner - but no accordion player.
The thing is, we played a cool show in Groningen, Netherlands on 11th January and everything was cool. Then the next day, before the flight, some of us decided to check out Amsterdam really quickly, by train. Lisko had behaved in a bit hazy way during the trip, but it was nothing that weird (considering he is Lisko); however, he never showed up back at the airport. We got an interesting phone call, where he told that due to "special" reasons he wouldn't fly in the same plane with us. This alone was pissing us off a bit, but we decided he could do it on his own expense. However, after returning to Finland, despite our attempts, there has been practically no communication with the guy, apart from a couple of interesting SMS's (so apparently he's alive): no rehearsals, nothing. We don't even know if he's back in Finland at the moment.
This puts us in a difficult situation: with a lot of pre-arrangements like flights and visas to be done, and with all our upcoming responsibilities we have no other option than to release Lisko from his duties for an undetermined time period, starting from today. Luckily for us, we already managed to get a replacement for him on such a short warning time: the step-in accordionist for Spring 2008 will be Netta Skog, who also helped us out with the latest European tour in October-November. No permanent accordion player will be added to the current line-up at this point. Turisas also wants to point out that NO shows will be affected by the small change in the line-up.
| Source: | turisas.com |
| Band profile: | Turisas |
Stormlord - Studio Update
Italian metallers Stormlord have posted the following update on their website:
"Hi guys,
We are proud to bring some good news to all the Stormlord legions out there. The recording sessions of our fourth chapters have begun! We entered The Outer Sound Studios (Novembre, Necrodeath, Klimt 1918 etc.) one month ago together with the producer Giuseppe Orlando, as usual. We'll keep on working for about twenty days more. We decided not to give you any news until now in order to fully understand how good this work is. This album is such a great bet for us, it'll see Stormlord going back to an epic sound near to our first album "Supreme Art Of War", that almost ten years ago was able to influence tons of bands still growing strong in the scene, even if the style of our recent albums will not be missing. You'll find some surprises like an acoustic song, folk instruments and even some sitar parts, everything mixed with an extreme-epic attitude like it was back in the days, but with the nowadays production and a well developed technical skill.
Now it"s time to go back to work again but in the next week we'll post some other news, still we've got some aces up our sleeves!"
"Hi guys,
We are proud to bring some good news to all the Stormlord legions out there. The recording sessions of our fourth chapters have begun! We entered The Outer Sound Studios (Novembre, Necrodeath, Klimt 1918 etc.) one month ago together with the producer Giuseppe Orlando, as usual. We'll keep on working for about twenty days more. We decided not to give you any news until now in order to fully understand how good this work is. This album is such a great bet for us, it'll see Stormlord going back to an epic sound near to our first album "Supreme Art Of War", that almost ten years ago was able to influence tons of bands still growing strong in the scene, even if the style of our recent albums will not be missing. You'll find some surprises like an acoustic song, folk instruments and even some sitar parts, everything mixed with an extreme-epic attitude like it was back in the days, but with the nowadays production and a well developed technical skill.
Now it"s time to go back to work again but in the next week we'll post some other news, still we've got some aces up our sleeves!"
| Source: | stormlord.net |
| Band profile: | Stormlord |
Flowing Tears - News On The Upcoming Album
German gothic metallers Flowing Tears have posted news on their upcoming album:
We can announce a major update on the upcoming studio album: after some very creative months, we're almost done with the songwriting. There are 12 songs so far, not sure if all of them will find their way to the album or if some new ones might come up at last minute, but we're close to the end of the writing mode. Studios are already booked and the production will start in May. A release is scheduled for autumn.
"We don't want to reveal too much about the material yet, but I can tell you it sounds much more atmospheric than we used to sound on our last few albums. Some of the songs have that certain mood that reminds me of what we did on albums like "Jade" or "Joy parade" while still having the power of the stuff from the "Razorbliss" era. Way less synths this time and way more guitars. There's heavy stuff, there's trippy stuff ? and there's some serious doomy stuff. Terribly pessimistic lyrics by the way
"There's no working title yet, but some of the songs that are finished so far are entitled 'Pain Has Taken Over', 'Words Before You Leave', 'Until The End' and 'For My Enemies'."
Read more ››
We can announce a major update on the upcoming studio album: after some very creative months, we're almost done with the songwriting. There are 12 songs so far, not sure if all of them will find their way to the album or if some new ones might come up at last minute, but we're close to the end of the writing mode. Studios are already booked and the production will start in May. A release is scheduled for autumn.
"We don't want to reveal too much about the material yet, but I can tell you it sounds much more atmospheric than we used to sound on our last few albums. Some of the songs have that certain mood that reminds me of what we did on albums like "Jade" or "Joy parade" while still having the power of the stuff from the "Razorbliss" era. Way less synths this time and way more guitars. There's heavy stuff, there's trippy stuff ? and there's some serious doomy stuff. Terribly pessimistic lyrics by the way
"There's no working title yet, but some of the songs that are finished so far are entitled 'Pain Has Taken Over', 'Words Before You Leave', 'Until The End' and 'For My Enemies'."
Read more ››
| Source: | blog.myspace.com |
| Band profile: | Flowing Tears |
Bloodbath - EP Tracklist And Cover Revealed
Bloodbath has posted the following update on their website:
The new mini-cd will be entitled 'Unblessing The Purity' cover art] and this 4-song disc will see a release exclusively through Peaceville on March 10th. The classic oldschool looking cover artwork was created by Dusty Peterson who won last year's competition. We'd like to congratulate Dusty and thank him for visualizing our artconcept. We'd also like to thank all the other artists for taking their time and effort to submit their creations even though it didn't make it all the way. Look out for audio-preview teasers to be posted shortly.
Tracklist:
01. Blasting The Virginborn
02. Weak Aside
03. Sick Salvation
04. Mouth Of Empty Praise
Read more ››
The new mini-cd will be entitled 'Unblessing The Purity' cover art] and this 4-song disc will see a release exclusively through Peaceville on March 10th. The classic oldschool looking cover artwork was created by Dusty Peterson who won last year's competition. We'd like to congratulate Dusty and thank him for visualizing our artconcept. We'd also like to thank all the other artists for taking their time and effort to submit their creations even though it didn't make it all the way. Look out for audio-preview teasers to be posted shortly.
Tracklist:
01. Blasting The Virginborn
02. Weak Aside
03. Sick Salvation
04. Mouth Of Empty Praise
Read more ››
| Source: | bloodbath.biz |
| Band profile: | Bloodbath |
Shining - Part Ways With Bassist
Swedish metallers Shining has posted the following on the band's myspace page:
Bassist Phil A. Cirone have decided to once again leave Shining. There is absolutely no bad blood him and the band inbetween. Shining thank him eternally for his years of edication and death!
This will not effect our coming ceremonies as Phil will remain a live-musician until a replacement has been found.
We have decided that in the search of a new bassist we are going to hold an audition where we invite you to try out for us. We are not looking for any session-members whatsoever so the place is permanent to whoever might suit the band, thus, the requirements as seen below. We need you to record a videoclip where you show off your skills and send it to us along with a motivation of why you want to join Shining and what you think you could contribute with as both musician and person to the band. We need all applications in hand before the 1st of March as we intend to tour pretty much the rest of the year as well as recording our sixth album. Once we have gone through the material you have sent we will choose the best ones and invite you to Oslo, Norway where we will play a few songs together to see who will become the new bassist of Shining.
Requirements:
- Shining has to be your main priority and nothing can come between your obligations towards the band.
- You have to live in Sweden or without hesitation move to Sweden once you are offered to join.
- You have to either know or learn our past to be able to participate in promotional matters.
- You have to have live-experience and preferably touring-experience.
- You have to be able to tour more than 100 days per year.
- You have to be able to enter the USA.
Send your video-clip along with your motivation to: bookingshining@hotmail.com
Our by snail-mail to our manager at: Conny Jarlestål, A-ringen 71, 30255 Halmstad, Sweden
Read more ››
Bassist Phil A. Cirone have decided to once again leave Shining. There is absolutely no bad blood him and the band inbetween. Shining thank him eternally for his years of edication and death!
This will not effect our coming ceremonies as Phil will remain a live-musician until a replacement has been found.
We have decided that in the search of a new bassist we are going to hold an audition where we invite you to try out for us. We are not looking for any session-members whatsoever so the place is permanent to whoever might suit the band, thus, the requirements as seen below. We need you to record a videoclip where you show off your skills and send it to us along with a motivation of why you want to join Shining and what you think you could contribute with as both musician and person to the band. We need all applications in hand before the 1st of March as we intend to tour pretty much the rest of the year as well as recording our sixth album. Once we have gone through the material you have sent we will choose the best ones and invite you to Oslo, Norway where we will play a few songs together to see who will become the new bassist of Shining.
Requirements:
- Shining has to be your main priority and nothing can come between your obligations towards the band.
- You have to live in Sweden or without hesitation move to Sweden once you are offered to join.
- You have to either know or learn our past to be able to participate in promotional matters.
- You have to have live-experience and preferably touring-experience.
- You have to be able to tour more than 100 days per year.
- You have to be able to enter the USA.
Send your video-clip along with your motivation to: bookingshining@hotmail.com
Our by snail-mail to our manager at: Conny Jarlestål, A-ringen 71, 30255 Halmstad, Sweden
Read more ››
| Source: | blog.myspace.com |
| Band profile: | Shining |
Amon Amarth - Extends Their Contract With Metal Blade
Metal Blade has released the following official press release:
Amon Amarth, the Swedish metal band that has taken the world by storm with their brand of intense and melodic Viking influenced music, has just renewed their contract with Metal Blade Records. The 3 album, worldwide deal, will kick off with the band's follow up release to 2006's highly praised With Oden on Our Side, which the band is currently hard at work writing. "The plan is to return to Fascination Street Studios in May to record the new album, once again working with Jens Bogren as engineer and producer" states the band. There will be more details to come in the following weeks & months so stay tuned for more updates from the band.
Here is what the band has to say in regards to extending their contact with Metal Blade Records:
"After 11 years with the same label we have grown into a relationship that easily could go by the term 'Family'. We had their support, confidence and commitment from the start and it has only got stronger for each year that passed. We are proud and happy to continue this amazing journey together with Metal Blade for many years to come, this has just begun."
Metal Blade Records Owner and CEO Brian Slagel comments:
"We are very happy to continue our great relationship with Amon Amarth. They have been part of the Metal Blade family for a long time and we look forward to many more years with them."
A photo of some members of the band with the record label can be viewed at this location.
Read more ››
Amon Amarth, the Swedish metal band that has taken the world by storm with their brand of intense and melodic Viking influenced music, has just renewed their contract with Metal Blade Records. The 3 album, worldwide deal, will kick off with the band's follow up release to 2006's highly praised With Oden on Our Side, which the band is currently hard at work writing. "The plan is to return to Fascination Street Studios in May to record the new album, once again working with Jens Bogren as engineer and producer" states the band. There will be more details to come in the following weeks & months so stay tuned for more updates from the band.
Here is what the band has to say in regards to extending their contact with Metal Blade Records:
"After 11 years with the same label we have grown into a relationship that easily could go by the term 'Family'. We had their support, confidence and commitment from the start and it has only got stronger for each year that passed. We are proud and happy to continue this amazing journey together with Metal Blade for many years to come, this has just begun."
Metal Blade Records Owner and CEO Brian Slagel comments:
"We are very happy to continue our great relationship with Amon Amarth. They have been part of the Metal Blade family for a long time and we look forward to many more years with them."
A photo of some members of the band with the record label can be viewed at this location.
Read more ››
| Source: | amonamarth.com |
| Band profile: | Amon Amarth |
Dream Theater - North American Tour Announced
The following has been posted on Dream Theater's myspace page:
New York progressive metal pioneers Dream Theater are set to unveil the maiden voyage of "Progressive Nation". A package tour they will headline that will also feature the talents of Opeth, Between The Buried And Me and 3.
The tour is the brainchild of Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy who explains: "I've been wanting to assemble a package tour like this for many years now. With all of the festivals and package tours that go through America, I've been talking with our manager and agent for over 10 years now about doing something that focuses on the more progressive, musician-oriented side of hard rock and metal. I decided it was time to stop talking the talk, lace up and finally walk the walk"
While Dream Theater co-headlined 2005's Gigantour alongside Megadeth, as well as embarking on previous co-headlining runs with both Queensrÿche and Joe Satriani and opening slots for Yes, Deep Purple and Iron Maiden, they have primarily built their 22 year career on the road playing solely to their own audience.
Portnoy comments: "I've always prided myself on personally hand picking new and exciting opening acts to open for Dream Theater in the past. Bands such as Porcupine Tree, Symphony X, Spock's Beard, Fates Warning, Pain Of Salvation and King's X. In all of these cases, it was important for me to pick bands that I respect and admire but also ones that I know our fans will enjoy. And I think playing with DT has helped expand all of those band's fanbases as a direct result. I am hoping Progressive Nation will continue to do the same thing in offering an audience for more daring and experimental acts that otherwise may not get the mainstream exposure they so rightly deserve."
Joining the bill for this inaugural run is Sweden's legendary Opeth who have been enjoying an ever-growing and expanding audience of their own for many years now. DT's Roadrunner Records label-mates will be ready to unleash their new album "Watershed" next spring and Progressive Nation should be a great launching pad for their next World Tour cycle. Guitarist/Vocalist Mikael Akerfeldt adds: "We're very excited about this upcoming tour with Dream Theater. It will be the first tour that we're doing in support of our upcoming record, and also somewhat of a dream come true personally as I've been a fan of theirs for a long time. It's quite intimidating to be on the bill with such amazing musicians but obviously we'll try and give them a run for their money and pull out a few nice licks of our own. I guess we'll need to practice a little bit for this....how boring! Yet, I can't wait for this tour to start and I'm sure we'll have a blast with the DT guys as well as together with the other bands on the bill!"
Read more ››
New York progressive metal pioneers Dream Theater are set to unveil the maiden voyage of "Progressive Nation". A package tour they will headline that will also feature the talents of Opeth, Between The Buried And Me and 3.
The tour is the brainchild of Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy who explains: "I've been wanting to assemble a package tour like this for many years now. With all of the festivals and package tours that go through America, I've been talking with our manager and agent for over 10 years now about doing something that focuses on the more progressive, musician-oriented side of hard rock and metal. I decided it was time to stop talking the talk, lace up and finally walk the walk"
While Dream Theater co-headlined 2005's Gigantour alongside Megadeth, as well as embarking on previous co-headlining runs with both Queensrÿche and Joe Satriani and opening slots for Yes, Deep Purple and Iron Maiden, they have primarily built their 22 year career on the road playing solely to their own audience.
Portnoy comments: "I've always prided myself on personally hand picking new and exciting opening acts to open for Dream Theater in the past. Bands such as Porcupine Tree, Symphony X, Spock's Beard, Fates Warning, Pain Of Salvation and King's X. In all of these cases, it was important for me to pick bands that I respect and admire but also ones that I know our fans will enjoy. And I think playing with DT has helped expand all of those band's fanbases as a direct result. I am hoping Progressive Nation will continue to do the same thing in offering an audience for more daring and experimental acts that otherwise may not get the mainstream exposure they so rightly deserve."
Joining the bill for this inaugural run is Sweden's legendary Opeth who have been enjoying an ever-growing and expanding audience of their own for many years now. DT's Roadrunner Records label-mates will be ready to unleash their new album "Watershed" next spring and Progressive Nation should be a great launching pad for their next World Tour cycle. Guitarist/Vocalist Mikael Akerfeldt adds: "We're very excited about this upcoming tour with Dream Theater. It will be the first tour that we're doing in support of our upcoming record, and also somewhat of a dream come true personally as I've been a fan of theirs for a long time. It's quite intimidating to be on the bill with such amazing musicians but obviously we'll try and give them a run for their money and pull out a few nice licks of our own. I guess we'll need to practice a little bit for this....how boring! Yet, I can't wait for this tour to start and I'm sure we'll have a blast with the DT guys as well as together with the other bands on the bill!"
Read more ››
| Source: | blog.myspace.com |
| Band profile: | Dream Theater |
| Event: | Progressive Nation Tour |
Jon Oliva's Pain - North American Tour With Circle II Circle And Manticora
The following was posted on Jon Oliva's Pain's my space page:
Jon Oliva's Pain, Circle II Circle, & Manticora will team-up for the first leg of the North American "Global Intrusions" tour this fall. This marks the first time that Jon Oliva (Jon Oliva's Pain, Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) & Zak Stevens (Circle II Circle, ex-Savatage) have toured together since their days in Savatage in 1999.
"Wow, it's certainly been a while since I have been able to get back on the road here in America...it must be snowing in hell. It's going to be great touring in support of what I consider one of the best records of my career. We really pulled out all the stops for this one. Touring with Zak and the Circle II Circle guys is going to be a treat as well, especially for Savatage fans. We've got a few tricks up our sleeves so don't miss out as it may never happen again. Looking forward to seeing all of you soon" said Oliva. Stevens adds, "It's always special to perform on the same bill with Jon Oliva, especially here in the States! Obviously Jon has been a huge influence on my musical career and I remain one of his biggest fans. This tour will be a special event for all our fans that have enjoyed our work throughout the Savatage years and now into the new generation of Jon Oliva's Pain and Circle II Circle music."
Manticora's Lars Larsen states "For us, this is a great opportunity as we now get the chance to start in Europe with Oliva and then finish the party in North America with one of our biggest inspirations."
Dates to be announced soon.
Read more ››
Jon Oliva's Pain, Circle II Circle, & Manticora will team-up for the first leg of the North American "Global Intrusions" tour this fall. This marks the first time that Jon Oliva (Jon Oliva's Pain, Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) & Zak Stevens (Circle II Circle, ex-Savatage) have toured together since their days in Savatage in 1999.
"Wow, it's certainly been a while since I have been able to get back on the road here in America...it must be snowing in hell. It's going to be great touring in support of what I consider one of the best records of my career. We really pulled out all the stops for this one. Touring with Zak and the Circle II Circle guys is going to be a treat as well, especially for Savatage fans. We've got a few tricks up our sleeves so don't miss out as it may never happen again. Looking forward to seeing all of you soon" said Oliva. Stevens adds, "It's always special to perform on the same bill with Jon Oliva, especially here in the States! Obviously Jon has been a huge influence on my musical career and I remain one of his biggest fans. This tour will be a special event for all our fans that have enjoyed our work throughout the Savatage years and now into the new generation of Jon Oliva's Pain and Circle II Circle music."
Manticora's Lars Larsen states "For us, this is a great opportunity as we now get the chance to start in Europe with Oliva and then finish the party in North America with one of our biggest inspirations."
Dates to be announced soon.
Read more ››
| Source: | blog.myspace.com |
| Band profile: | Jon Oliva's Pain |
Madder Mortem - Update From The Band
Madder Mortem has posted this update on their website:
Some people have uttered their concern about our long period of public silence. We assure you all, that there's nothing to worry about! At the moment of writing, we're in the last stages of preparation before starting to record our newest compilation of Madder Madness onto disk. There are quite some things that needs to be settled, and that's partly the reason why things have been taking such a long time, but do not fear; we're absolutely still together as the band you all know, highly alive and kicking, so look forward to more news to come, as we get into the recording process, and a new Madder era starts to take shape!
Some people have uttered their concern about our long period of public silence. We assure you all, that there's nothing to worry about! At the moment of writing, we're in the last stages of preparation before starting to record our newest compilation of Madder Madness onto disk. There are quite some things that needs to be settled, and that's partly the reason why things have been taking such a long time, but do not fear; we're absolutely still together as the band you all know, highly alive and kicking, so look forward to more news to come, as we get into the recording process, and a new Madder era starts to take shape!
| Source: | maddermortem.com |
| Band profile: | Madder Mortem |
Deathchain - Part Ways With Guitarist
Deathchain has posted the following updates on their website:
"We have decided to announce this due to all questions regarding this issue: Our long-time guitar player Bobby Undertaker has decided to step off from this roaring machinery. It did not come as a complete surprise but somehow it was inevitable, as one will find out when reading the Undertakers last obituary. It is with full understanding we part our ways with long-time friend and brother, so cheers to you and may Cthulhu guard your steps!"
Bobby Undertaker has also posted his statement on the website:
"Deathchain has come to a point where in order to grow bigger and more known as a band, more and more tours outside Finland must be done. It seems that Deathchain is going to be pretty busy on that matter. That means months away from Finland and for me, also months away from my day job. In my current situation in life, that job is something I just can't afford to lose. Especially when doing tours as a support, usually there's no income of any kind and for me that situation is financially impossible. It's not fair that the whole band would be held back just because of me. Furthermore, I totally agree with the rest of the band that using someone to replace me on tours is totally lame and just plain stupid. Either you're in, or you're out and I'm sad to announce that under these circumstances, I am out of Deathchain.
This is probably the hardest decision I've ever made. Deathchain has been a huge part of my life. We have done three albums and over 100 shows all around Europe, I've made a lots of friends on our gigs and met great bands, not to mention the fellow band members who have become one of my best friends. I will continue playing and with Corpse we have agreed to work together in the future. I wish all the best for Deathchain and thank you for the best years of my life.
Stay metal,
B.Undertaker"
The band continues to post the following:
"We have found a new brother, who will join our hordes under the name of Kult! There is no need to write about his past in here, because the future will show you that he is the right man for the job. We are already writing the next opus and Kult is deeply involved in the writing process, this is how strongly we trust him. So greet him with a pint of lager when you see him on this years shows!"
Read more ››
"We have decided to announce this due to all questions regarding this issue: Our long-time guitar player Bobby Undertaker has decided to step off from this roaring machinery. It did not come as a complete surprise but somehow it was inevitable, as one will find out when reading the Undertakers last obituary. It is with full understanding we part our ways with long-time friend and brother, so cheers to you and may Cthulhu guard your steps!"
Bobby Undertaker has also posted his statement on the website:
"Deathchain has come to a point where in order to grow bigger and more known as a band, more and more tours outside Finland must be done. It seems that Deathchain is going to be pretty busy on that matter. That means months away from Finland and for me, also months away from my day job. In my current situation in life, that job is something I just can't afford to lose. Especially when doing tours as a support, usually there's no income of any kind and for me that situation is financially impossible. It's not fair that the whole band would be held back just because of me. Furthermore, I totally agree with the rest of the band that using someone to replace me on tours is totally lame and just plain stupid. Either you're in, or you're out and I'm sad to announce that under these circumstances, I am out of Deathchain.
This is probably the hardest decision I've ever made. Deathchain has been a huge part of my life. We have done three albums and over 100 shows all around Europe, I've made a lots of friends on our gigs and met great bands, not to mention the fellow band members who have become one of my best friends. I will continue playing and with Corpse we have agreed to work together in the future. I wish all the best for Deathchain and thank you for the best years of my life.
Stay metal,
B.Undertaker"
The band continues to post the following:
"We have found a new brother, who will join our hordes under the name of Kult! There is no need to write about his past in here, because the future will show you that he is the right man for the job. We are already writing the next opus and Kult is deeply involved in the writing process, this is how strongly we trust him. So greet him with a pint of lager when you see him on this years shows!"
Read more ››
| Source: | deathchain.com |
| Band profile: | Deathchain |
God Dethroned - Part Ways With Drummer
God Dethroned's guitarists Isaac Delahaye has posted the following statement on the band's website:
A little while ago our long time drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek announced he would join the ranks of Dutch gothic metal rockers Epica, leaving us no other choice than to let him go. We do understand his career move and we wish him all the best of luck for the future, and we'd like to thank him for all the years of pure blasphemy.
We will play a farewell show with Ariën on March 28th at the Mezz club in Breda, Holland.
At the same time we are happy to announce the return of Roel Sanders, our drummer on the Grand Grimoire and Bloody Blasphemy albums!
Roel left God Dethroned in the summer of 2000, but this time he's back to stay with us till the end.
Some of you may also know him as the drummer for Inhume (and don't worry, he will continue with that band too).
Soon we will start the writing process of a new album with the working title: Passiondale... an epic tale about World War I.
Musically the new album will be a mix between Bloody Blasphemy and Lair of the White Worm, so better buckle up fellas!
Read more ››
A little while ago our long time drummer Ariën van Weesenbeek announced he would join the ranks of Dutch gothic metal rockers Epica, leaving us no other choice than to let him go. We do understand his career move and we wish him all the best of luck for the future, and we'd like to thank him for all the years of pure blasphemy.
We will play a farewell show with Ariën on March 28th at the Mezz club in Breda, Holland.
At the same time we are happy to announce the return of Roel Sanders, our drummer on the Grand Grimoire and Bloody Blasphemy albums!
Roel left God Dethroned in the summer of 2000, but this time he's back to stay with us till the end.
Some of you may also know him as the drummer for Inhume (and don't worry, he will continue with that band too).
Soon we will start the writing process of a new album with the working title: Passiondale... an epic tale about World War I.
Musically the new album will be a mix between Bloody Blasphemy and Lair of the White Worm, so better buckle up fellas!
Read more ››
| Source: | goddethroned.com |
| Band profile: | God Dethroned |
Sigh - Announces North American Tour
The following has been posted on Sigh's website:
The long awaited announcement has finally been made: Sigh will be headlining a two and a half week tour covering the United States and Canada this September. The band will be supported by Unexpect and Zimmer's Hole, making it the band's first tour as headliner.
Tour dates:
06 Sep - San Marcos, CA - Jumping Turtle
07 Sep - Anaheim, CA - Chain Reaction
08 Sep - Hollywood, CA - Knitting Factory
09 Sep - Tempe, CA - The Clubhouse
10 Sep - Albuquerque, NM - Launch Pad
11 Sep - Ft Worth, TX - Ridglea Theater
12 Sep - San Antonio, TX - White Rabbit
13 Sep - Houston, TX - Meridian
14 Sep - Nashville, TN - The Muse
15 Sep - West Springfield, VA - Jaxx
16 Sep - New York City, NY - B.B. King Blues Club & Grill
17 Sep - Montreal, QUE - FouFounes
18 Sep - Sudbury, ONT - Jubilee Centre
19 Sep - Toronto, ONT - Wreck Room
20 Sep - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's
21 Sep - Mokena, IL - The Pearl Room
22 Sep - St Paul, MN - Station 4
Read more ››
The long awaited announcement has finally been made: Sigh will be headlining a two and a half week tour covering the United States and Canada this September. The band will be supported by Unexpect and Zimmer's Hole, making it the band's first tour as headliner.
Tour dates:
06 Sep - San Marcos, CA - Jumping Turtle
07 Sep - Anaheim, CA - Chain Reaction
08 Sep - Hollywood, CA - Knitting Factory
09 Sep - Tempe, CA - The Clubhouse
10 Sep - Albuquerque, NM - Launch Pad
11 Sep - Ft Worth, TX - Ridglea Theater
12 Sep - San Antonio, TX - White Rabbit
13 Sep - Houston, TX - Meridian
14 Sep - Nashville, TN - The Muse
15 Sep - West Springfield, VA - Jaxx
16 Sep - New York City, NY - B.B. King Blues Club & Grill
17 Sep - Montreal, QUE - FouFounes
18 Sep - Sudbury, ONT - Jubilee Centre
19 Sep - Toronto, ONT - Wreck Room
20 Sep - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's
21 Sep - Mokena, IL - The Pearl Room
22 Sep - St Paul, MN - Station 4
Read more ››
| Source: | sigh.gospel-virus.net |
| Band profile: | Sigh |
| Event: | Sigh 2008 North American Tour |
Aeon - Updates From The Band
Aeon has posted the following updates on their website:
Since it has been awfully quiet in here for the last 3 month I thought it would be fair to inform you all about what's going on in the Aeon camp. We have been working really hard on finding a temporary or permanent solution to our drummer situation. There are some interesting drummers out there that we have been talking to but we have not come to any conclusions just yet.
And speaking of drummers, we have straightened a few things out with Nils (former drummer) under the last month. He contacted us and wanted to sort a couple of things out regarding to his earlier behaviors. He is very aware of the damage he caused us and he is just sorry for how things turned out. I believe there where some personal / private issues involved that caused him to get all burned / stressed out and that eventually made him to act the way he did. We are still very disappointed in how things where handled by him, but since Nils is a very good friend of ours, we just can't stay mad at him forever.
Nils have also stated that he really want's to continue to play drums for Aeon. But there are still some questions from our side that needs answers before we can even considering taking him back as our permanent drummer. After all? he is still the drummer in Dark Funeral which will probably continue to conflict with our future schedules etc. Before any decisions are made, we will have to think this thru properly.
But as a permanent drummer or not? right now we are actually blasting some tunes with Nils in the rehearsal-room and I must admit it feels awesome to do this again. And while we're at it, we decided to do something extra for you all?. or at least for the ones who lives close or are willing to travel. We will throw you a full headline show right here in Östersund / Sweden the 9th of February with "Dimension 34" as opening act. How about that?? Do you dare to miss this?
/ Aeon, 2008-01-28
Drummer Nils has posted this update
"To have such a long break in communication was not something I intended. It was a result of some personal problems I was going through at the time which I explained to the guys. I have apologized and want very much to win back their trust. I'm really looking forward to this show, it´s gonna be great playing these songs live again!"
Since it has been awfully quiet in here for the last 3 month I thought it would be fair to inform you all about what's going on in the Aeon camp. We have been working really hard on finding a temporary or permanent solution to our drummer situation. There are some interesting drummers out there that we have been talking to but we have not come to any conclusions just yet.
And speaking of drummers, we have straightened a few things out with Nils (former drummer) under the last month. He contacted us and wanted to sort a couple of things out regarding to his earlier behaviors. He is very aware of the damage he caused us and he is just sorry for how things turned out. I believe there where some personal / private issues involved that caused him to get all burned / stressed out and that eventually made him to act the way he did. We are still very disappointed in how things where handled by him, but since Nils is a very good friend of ours, we just can't stay mad at him forever.
Nils have also stated that he really want's to continue to play drums for Aeon. But there are still some questions from our side that needs answers before we can even considering taking him back as our permanent drummer. After all? he is still the drummer in Dark Funeral which will probably continue to conflict with our future schedules etc. Before any decisions are made, we will have to think this thru properly.
But as a permanent drummer or not? right now we are actually blasting some tunes with Nils in the rehearsal-room and I must admit it feels awesome to do this again. And while we're at it, we decided to do something extra for you all?. or at least for the ones who lives close or are willing to travel. We will throw you a full headline show right here in Östersund / Sweden the 9th of February with "Dimension 34" as opening act. How about that?? Do you dare to miss this?
/ Aeon, 2008-01-28
Drummer Nils has posted this update
"To have such a long break in communication was not something I intended. It was a result of some personal problems I was going through at the time which I explained to the guys. I have apologized and want very much to win back their trust. I'm really looking forward to this show, it´s gonna be great playing these songs live again!"
| Source: | aeon666.com |
| Band profile: | Aeon |
Altaria - Parts Ways With Bassist And Looking For A New Label
Finnish metal band Altaria has posted the following updates on their website:
Altaria has parted ways with record company Metal Heaven and is currently negotiating a new contract. Material for the fourth album, which earlier was scheduled to be released in 2007, is basically ready just waiting to be recorded and unleashed upon the world this year.
In the aftermath of this split bass player Marko Pukkila decided to quit. Altaria will not look for a replacement and the bass will as of now be handled by Marco Luponero who in his previous band Terrorwheel also held the position as bassist/vocalist. Rehearsals have shown that the band now is working better than ever as a solid and creative unit and the Altaria-camp is very exited about everything going on in the "History Of Times To Come."
Altaria has parted ways with record company Metal Heaven and is currently negotiating a new contract. Material for the fourth album, which earlier was scheduled to be released in 2007, is basically ready just waiting to be recorded and unleashed upon the world this year.
In the aftermath of this split bass player Marko Pukkila decided to quit. Altaria will not look for a replacement and the bass will as of now be handled by Marco Luponero who in his previous band Terrorwheel also held the position as bassist/vocalist. Rehearsals have shown that the band now is working better than ever as a solid and creative unit and the Altaria-camp is very exited about everything going on in the "History Of Times To Come."
| Source: | altariamusic.com |
| Band profile: | Altaria |