02	SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL GETS TWISTED!: A reunited TWISTED SISTER, JETHRO TULL, Germanys power metal kings BLIND GUARDIAN and for the first time ever in Sweden, US hard rockers Y & T have been announced. Among the other bands announced to perform are KROKUS, BUDGY. The festival will ultimately include 41 bands and takes place June 6-8th.
02	PROG POWER 2003 ANNOUNCEMENT: (Press Release) Hello everyone, We are still living in the year 2002, and now we are already talking about ProgPower Europe 2003. Why? Just because the number of demos/CDs we receive these days is really huge. Therefore we already had our first listening session last Thursday (November 21, 2002) and made a pre-selection of the first 40 CDs/demos we have received so far. And we can tell you that the quality is fantastic, so expect again a line-up with some high quality unknown bands, together with some known bands. And because it will be the 5th edition we will have a "real" headliner this time, you can count on that (allthough we think that nothing was wrong with the previous headliners). To all the bands who want to play, we still do accept CDs/demos and we will have a second listening session someday in January. So feel free to send your CD/demo with a full biography to: ProgPower Europe 2003 Vergelt 5a 5991 PJ BAARLO The Netherlands
08	SOAD TAKE A BREAK System Of A Down are expected to take most of next year off, after a hectic and gruelling touring schedule over the past two years. The band, who’ve just released ‘Steal This Album’, won’t have any new music available until 2004. SHARON OSBOURNE: WOMAN OF THE YEAR Sharon Osbourne has been voted ‘Woman Of The Year’ in the eight annual Nordoff Robins/BRIT Trust Woman Of The Year Awards. This is for women in the music industry and related media. INTERNATIONAL NOISE ARE QUIET Swedish band the (International) Noise Conspiracy have cancelled their planned UK shows, because singer Dennis Lyxzén has suffered a back injury.
08	FAITH NO MORE MAN GOES FLATT Former Faith No More bassist Billy Gould is to produce the first album from California’s Flattbush. This will be released on his label, Kool Arrow, next year. GOTTHARD AT TO THE ‘ZOO’ Swiss metallers Gotthard will release their new album, ‘Human Zoo’, early in 2003. It’s currently being mixed by producer Marc Tanner. MORE BANDS FOR WACKEN Another batch of bands have been confirmed for 2003’s Wacken Fesival, which happens from July 31-August 2. The list now includes Dark Angel, Extreme Noise Terror, Gamma Ray, Iced Earth, Kataklysm, Malevolent Creation, Nile, Primal Fear, Rage, Stratovarius, The Almighty Punchdrunk and Vader.
08	KREATOR MIX LIVE ALBUM Kreator will have their live album mixed by Andy Sneap later this month. The album, called ‘Live Kreation (Revisioned Glory)’, will be released by SPV early in 2003. CHRONICLING SAXON Saxon are to release a DVD called ‘Saxon Chronicles’ at the end of January. This will include footage of the band’s show at the Wacken Festival in 2001, an interview with Biff, plus a CD of the aforementioned show. HIGH ON UK SHOWS High On Fire and Mastadon join forces to play the following dates: London Camden Underworld February 11 (with The Art Of Burning Water also on the bill), Leeds Joseph’s Well 12, Swansea Escape 13, Milton Keynes Woughton Centre 14, Nottingham Angel 15.
08	KUSH PROJECT SIGN DEAL The Kush Project, the band featuring members of Deftones, Fear Factory and Cypress Hill, have signed a deal with Sony. Expect their debut album to be released next year. The band are still working on songs. GODHEAD GET NEW LABEL Godhead, who released their last album (‘2000 Years Of Human Error’) on Marilyn Manson’s label Posthumous, have now signed a deal with Reality Entertainment/Sony. They are currently working on a new album with producer Warren Croyle. P.O.D DVD ‘DUE’ P.O.D will release the DVD ‘Still Payin’ Dues’ on February 3. This spans their decade-long career, and will include all their promo videos, plus exclusive behind the scenes footage and film of the band onstage during their recent ‘Youth Of The Nation’ tour. This will also be available on VHS.
08	TOTO’S SILVER ANNIVERSARY Toto are to celebrate their 25^th anniversary by playing the following two UK dates: London Shepherd’s Bush Empire February 18, Manchester Apollo 19. THE HAUNTED EXPAND TOUR The Haunted have now added more shows to their upcoming UK/Ireland tour. The full list of dates is now: London Mean Fiddler February 20, Glasgow Cathouse 21, Oxford Zodiac 22, Leeds Cockpit 23, Dublin Whelans 24, Manchester Hop & Grape 25, Birmingham Academy 2 26, Cardiff Club Ifor Bach 27. The Swedes’ new album, ‘One Kill Wonder’, is released by Earache on February 17. SOMETHING CORPORATE RETURN TO LONDON Something Corporate will play a show in London on January 16. It happens at The Marquee.
08	QUEENS CANCEL SHOWS The Queens Of The Stone Age were forced to cancel the last three shows of their European tour, because bassist Nick Oliveri was suffering from a ‘mystery ailment’. The dates were in France and Holland. VOIVOD MAN GOES TO PARADISE Voivod drummer Michel ‘Away’ Langevin guests on the debut album from fellow Montreal band Paradise. This is titled ‘Rock Anthropologists On The Kon-Tiki Voyage’. TWISTED SISTER FOR SWEDEN ROCK The reunited Twisted Sister are to be one of the main attractions at the Sweden Rock Festival, which happens in Solvesborg from June 6-8. Also on the bill are to be Jethro Tull, Budgie, Blind Guardian and Y&T. For further details, go to www.swedenrock.com.
08	CONVERGE COMPLETE DVD Converge are to issue a DVD called ‘The Long Road Home’ in February. This will include live and studio footage. This is to be preceded by the EP ‘Unloved And Weeded Out’, due to hit the shops in late January. And the band are also working on a new album called ‘You Fail Me’ for release next year on Equal Vision. IN FLAMES TAKE A FALL In Flames and Shadows Fall are to team up to play a handful of dates in Japan this month. These happen from December 16-19 in Nagoya, Osaka and Tokyo. INTERNATIONAL NOISE GO QUIET Swedish band the (International) Noise Conspiracy have cancelled their planned UK shows, because singer Dennis Lyxzén has suffered a back injury.
08	STONES HIT THE UK The Rolling Stones have announced three British dates for next summer, all in the London area. They’ll happen at Twickenham Stadium (August 23), the Astoria (27) and Wembley Arena (29). Tickets go on sale from December 6. These shows are part of a 40-date European tour. GOTTHARD GO TO THE ‘ZOO’ Swiss metallers Gotthard will release their new album, ‘Human Zoo’, early in 2003. It’s currently being mixed by producer Marc Tanner. YNGWIE IS COMING Guitar hero Yngwie J. Malmsteen is coming to London. Fans can see him at The Mean Fiddler on February 8.
08	BIOHAZARD MAN TO MARRY PORN STAR Biohazard’s Evan Seinfeld is to marry porn star Tera Patrick. And the pair are planning to make movies together! Whether the ’Hazard will be asked to supply the soundtrack remains open to question. TROUBLE: LIVE ALBUM Classic doom band Trouble – now back together – are planning to record a show at the House Of Blues in their home town of Chicago on January 21. This is for a planned live album. TOMMY LEE: MILLION DOLLAR LAW SUIT Tommy Lee faces court action in a million dollar suit brought against him by Ursula Karven and James Veres, whose four-year-old son Daniel drowned at the former Motley Crue drummer’s home in June 2001. This was during a birthday party for Lee’s son Brandon. Attempts at an out of court settlement have failed to reach an agreement, and now Lee will inevitably end up in court, being accused of wrongful death and negligence.
08	COMPANY OF SNAKES ON HOLD Company Of Snakes, the band featuring the former Whitesnake trio of Bernie Marsden, Mickey Moody and Neil Murray, are on hold, with no plans for any further touring or recording until next summer at the earliest. This decision is bound to fuel rumours that the three might be involved with the regrouped Whitesnake, but Metal Coven must stress this remains pure speculation. An announcement on the latter’s plans is expected very soon from mainman David Coverdale. LINKIN PARK MARCH ON Fans can expect the new Linkin Park album to be released in March. As yet untitled, it’s being co-produced by Don Gilmore and the Park’s own Mike Shinoda, and should include about 15 songs. One of these, titled ‘Breaking The Habit’, will feature a ten-piece orchestra. DE LA ROCHA READIES SOLO DEBUT As his one time colleagues have teamed up with ex-Soundgarden man Chris Cornell and hit the charts under the name Audioslave, former Rage Against The Machine frontman Zack De La Rocha is planning to release his first solo album next year. The singer has been working with a number of producers, including Nine Inch Nails leader Trent Reznor, Dan ‘The Automator’ Nakamura, Roni Size, DJ Shadow and DJ Muggs (Cypress Hill).
08	H.I.M IN ‘LOVE’ WITH APRIL Finnish gothic love metallers H.I.M plan to issue new album, ‘Love Metal’, in April. And the band aim to play European festivals in the summer, followed by an extensive tour in the Autumn. The Finns have also just signed an American label deal with Universal. MIDNIGHT OIL STAR QUITS BAND Midnight Oil frontman Peter Garrett has left the veteran Aussies. After two decades with the band, Garrett – who is also known as an environmental activist – feels the time is right to concentrate on other pursuits. WE WISH’ YOU WELL Wishbone Ash have confirmed the following British dates: Swansea Patti Pavilion April 7, Wimborne Tivoli 8, Southampton Brook 9, Tavistock Wharf 10, Gloucester Guildhall 11, Frome Cheese & Grain 12, Cardiff Mount Stuart 13, Willerby Springhead 16, Birkenhead Pacific Road Arts & Exhibitions Centre 17, Wilbarston Hall 19, Wolverhampton Robin 20, Crewe Limelight 21, Sheffield Boardwalk 23, Norwich Waterfront 24, London Mean Fiddler 25, Bisley Pavilion 26, Manchester Lowry 27, Derby Flowerpot 28.
08	SLIPKNOT MAN JOINS HEADCHARGE DUO Slipknot bassist Paul Gray is working with American Head Charge pair Martin Cock (vocals) and Chad Hanks (guitar) in a new band called F.O.R. The trio have already demoed material. HELLOWEEN BRING IN MOTORHEAD DRUMMER Helloween are using the services of Motorhead drummer Mikkey Dee in the studio, because Mark Cross – who only recently joined the band – has been struck down by the viral infection mononucleosis, which could keep him out of action until next Spring. However, everyone is at pains to point out that Cross remains a vital part of Helloween’s plans.
08	PUDDLE OF MUDD: A FISTFUL OF BILLBOARD NOMINATIONS Puddle Of Mudd have picked up five nominations in the upcoming ‘Billboard’ magazine awards, due to happen Los Angeles on December 9. Also picking up multiple nominations are Creed and Nickleback. Here are the nominations in the rock categories: Rock Artist Of The Year: Creed, Nickelback, Puddle Of Mudd, Staind. Rock Track Of The Year: ‘Wasting My Time’ – Default, ‘I Stand Alone’ – Godsmack, ‘Blurry’ – Puddle Of Mudd, ‘For You’ – Staind. Modern Rock Artists Of The Year: Hoobastank, Incubus, Puddle Of Mudd, System Of A Down. Modern Rock Track Of The Year: ‘The Middle’ – Jimmy Eat World, ‘In The End’ – Linkin Park, ‘Blurry’ – Puddle Of Mudd, ‘By The Way’ – Red Hot Chili Peppers. The awards will also feature a special tribute to Run DMC, who recently split up after the murder of Jam Master Jay. Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry will be among those taking part. LAWRENCE ARMS JOIN THE BREAKFARCE SHOW Chicago punk trio The Lawrence Arms will be Julz & Dave’s special guests on Friday, December 6. Join the action from 7-9am (UK time). HALFORD DUO IN PAIN Halford guitarist Metal Mike Chlasciak and drummer Bobby Jarzombek are working together in another band called Pain Museum. The line-up is completed by vocalist Tim Clayborne and bassist Steve Booke. The foursome intend to release an album next year and to tour, although this won’t interfere with any Halford commitments.
08	KEEP ON ROTTING IN BRITAIN Greek metallers Rotting Christ team up with Enthroned and Primordial to play the following shows: London Camden Underworld January 6, Cardiff Mount Stuart 7, Glasgow Cathouse 8, Bradford Rio’s 9.
08	MISS NADINE GETS THE ’FINGER Miss Nadine is to air a major interview with American pop-punk stars Goldfinger on Sunday, December 8. Tune in from 9am to noon (UK time) to hear all the action. CAZARES WANTS YOUR DEMOS Former Fear Factory guitarist Dino Cazares is interested in getting demos from unsigned acts. He has a company called DC Productions, and wants to help young bands.. He can be contacted at: dinoff@aol.com . Listen out for a major interview with Cazares on Monday, December 16 during the ‘Nu World Order’. Full details to follow.
08	DARK TRANQUILLITY, BLAZE ON TOTALROCK Maria will be airing a special feature on acclaimed Swedish goth metallers Dark Tranquillity on Friday, December 6. Tune into Sex To 9 With Maria from 6-9pm (UK time), following which Charlie Andrews’ guest on the ‘Rock ’N’ Roll Ponderosa’ will be Blaze, who is to make a very special announcement. The show goes out from 9pm to midnight (UK time). OZZY THE GRANDFATHER Ozzy is a granddad! His daughter Jessica, from his first marriage, has given birth to a daughter, Isabelle. DOORS POSTPONE COMEBACK The Doors have been forced to postpone plans for a live comeback until next year. This is because drummer Stewart Copeland has broken his arm, falling off a bicycle outside his home in Los Angeles.
08	MINISTRY GET THE ’HORN Ministry are to be supported by Raging Speedhorn on their one-off UK show, which happens in London at the Astoria on March 2. SACK TRICK EXTEND TOUR Wacky loons Sack Trick have now extended their British tour. The remaining dates are: York Fibbers December 6, Huddersfield Laser Quest 7, Glasgow Barfly 8, Nottingham Rock City 12, Leicester Oxygen 19, Cardiff Barfly 20, Oxford Zodiac 21, London Fulham King’s Head 22, Tunbridge Wells Forum 23. ADEMA ‘DREAM’ OF BRITAIN Adema are to release their ‘Insomniac’s Dream’ EP in the UK during mid-February. This is to be on the Arista label.
08	KORN CANCEL SHOWS Korn have been forced to cancel the last five shows of their ‘Pop Sux!’ tour of America, because of fears it would put too much stress on Jonathan Davies, who’s suffering from strained vocal chords. The dates were due to run from December 7-12. METALLICA: THE BASSIST SEARCH IS ON Metallica have started the process to find a suitable replacement for the departed Jason Newsted. The band aim to have somebody in place for touring purposes next year. But hopefuls need not try to apply – candidates are being approached by the band and asked to audition. So far, several names have been invited, but Metallica aren’t letting on who they might be. LIVING COLOUR SIGN NEW DEAL Living Colour have signed a new recording deal, with Sanctuary. They’re currently working on songs at bassist Doug Wimbish’s home studio.
08	ZWAN AT ‘SEA’ Zwan, the new band featuring former Smashing Pumpkins duo Billy Corgan and Jimmy Chamberlin plus A Perfect Circle’s Paz Lenchantin, are to release their debut album at the end of January. It’s called ‘Mary Star Of The Sea’. The first single from this is ‘Honestly’. UNWRITTEN LAW SWITCH LABELS Unwritten Law have signed a new deal with Lava, having just left Warner Brothers. They’ll release an album called ‘Music In High Places’ recorded At Yellowstone Park, in late January. SOIL PLAN NEW ALBUM Soil are aiming to go into pre-production for their new album in February. The Chicago band have yet to decide on a producer for the project, but Johnny K (who worked with them on this year’s ‘Scar’) is on the short list.
08	SLIPKNOT MAN MIXES IT UP KCUF, who have Amen bassist John Fahnestock guesting on their upcoming debut album, have drafted in Slipknot DJ Sid Wilson to mix the record. This should be out early in the new year. TOMMY LEE: TRIAL DATE SET Tommy Lee will go to court on April 2, to defend a lawsuit being brought against him by Ursula Karven and James Veres following the death of their son Daniel in June 2001. Daniel drowned in Lee’s swimming pool at a party being held for the ex-Motley Crue drummer’s son Brandon. Daniel’s parents are suing Lee on the grounds of reckless behaviour and failing to provide proper supervision, Lee insists all parents were informed in advance of the conditions at the party. STRAY GO TO THE DOGS Classic British rockers Stray will headline the next Red Dog Night at the Guildford Civic Hall on January 18. Also on the bill will be the Larry Miller Band and Kingskin. Tickets cost £5 in advance from the venue box office, or £6 on the door. For further info, go to www.guildford-civic.co.uk
08	RAGING SPEEDHORN CONFIRM UK/IRELAND SHOWS Raging Speedhorn are to play the following dates on a major tour: Newport TJ’s January 19, Plymouth Club 103 20, Bridgewater Palace Theatre 21, Cambridge Junction 22, Hull University 23, Liverpool Academy 2 24, Leeds Cockpit 25, Edinburgh Liquid Rooms 26, Dundee Fat Sam’s 27, Aberdeen Lemon Tree 28, Whitehaven Civic Hall 29, Belfast Ulster University 30, Dublin Tivoli 31, Waterford Forum February 1, Limerick Bolands Warehouse 2, Carlisle Brickyard 3, Sunderland University 4, Coventry Coliseum 5, Leicester Charlotte 6, Oxford Zodiac 7, Tunbridge Wells Forum 8, Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms 9, London Astoria March 2 (supporting Ministry). ELECTRIC PRUNES GET ‘WIRED’ Celebrated psychedelic band the Electric Prunes are to have a DVD called ‘Rewired’ issued by Snapper in March. This includes live footage shot in Brighton during October 2002, plus interviews with the band. AUDIOSLAVE: FIRST SINGLE Audioslave, the band featuring Chris Cornell, Tom Morello, Brad Wilk and Tim Cummerford, are to release the song ‘Cochise’ as a single in the UK on January 13. This comes from their self-titled, debut album.
08	HALFORD GUITARIST METAL MIKE BUILDS “PAIN MUSEUM”, ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM IN 2003: (Press Release) NEW YORK – HALFORD guitarist METAL MIKE CHLASCIAK has announced the formation of Pain Museum, a new powerhouse metal band featuring vocalist Tim Clayborne, current Halford drummer Bobby Jarzombek and long time Metal Mike collaborator Steve Booke on bass. The band will tour and record around the Halford schedule. Pain Museum’s debut CD will build on the style of Halford’s groundbreaking “Resurrection” CD, laced with melodic crushing riffs and over the top metal vocals. The new CD is being produced by Metal Mike and will be completed by spring 2003. The band will kick off a North American tour in early 2003. “I guarantee that this will be one of the most celebrated Metal albums of 2003,” says Metal Mike. “The music twists all styles of real Metal into something that’s new, defined, yet strangely familiar. I have a superb musician line-up and the album goes straight to the heart. No filler - we are here to play Metal. I promise it will not disappoint.” Metal Mike gained mass notoriety as a founding member of Halford. He has written and played on the band’s debut CD “Resurrection” (2000) (Metal-Is/Sanctuary), the double live album “Live Insurrection” (2001) (Metal-Is/Sanctuary) and their brand new release “Crucible” (2002) (Metal-Is/Sanctuary). He also appears in the Halford videos “Cyberworld”, “Made In Hell” and “Betrayal”. Metal Mike was born in Warsaw, Poland and ultimately relocated to New Jersey in 1984. Total guitar dedication led him to a scholarship at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, from which he graduated in 1994. "While my peers were cutting off their hair and becoming Jazz geeks, I was always wearing my Metal T-shirts, playing way too loud, pissing absolutely everyone off, yet I did very well in class. People couldn’t figure it out, ha,” Metal Mike recalls. Mike’s talent was first featured at the ripe age of twenty when he was “spotlighted” in the pages of Guitar and Guitar Player magazines. Since then he has released three critically acclaimed Metal filled, aggressive guitar based solo recordings. "Upon my arrival in the United States, I learned my English from a TV Guide. Now I’m playing and touring the world with Rob Halford. It is a dream come true," says Metal Mike. "And now to spend my down time playing and touring with this awesome band of my new brothers, what more could I humanly ask for. I’m ready to fight for Metal, it is my deepest love!" In addition to announcing the construction of Pain Museum, Metal Mike is in development with several manufacturers on his own ‘signature’ equipment line. Jackson Guitars has already delivered the first of Metal Mike’s “Preferred Artists Choice” signature guitars, which they plan to have available in stores by summer of 2003. Not to shy away from the fashion culture, Metal Mike has also recently signed on as an endorsee of New Rock Boots and Gene Simmons’ Dragonfly Clothing Company. For more information on Pain Museum, their touring schedule and their upcoming album visit www.painmuseum.com or check out the official Metal Mike Chlasciak web site at www.planetshred.com.
08	STONE CHARITY GIG: (Press Release) STONE are scheduled to play toy drive for children with AIDS on December 14, 2002 Los Angeles, CA - Since 1990, Rock Angel volunteers have been collecting and distributing holiday toys to needy children. In past years, Rock Angel Toy Drives have been held in Los Angeles, New York, Washington DC, Las Vegas and Boston. Toys have been distributed to children with AIDS and other illnesses via Cambridge Cares, the Hemophilia Council, L.A. Free Clinic, and Caring Strokes. This year the annual Toy Drive will be held on December 14 at Pat’s Lounge located at 12121 Riverside Drive in North Hollywood and will feature the band, STONE. At 8 pm Rock Angel volunteers will start collecting new, unwrapped toys to be distributed to children affected by HIV/AIDS via Caring Strokes and to children living below poverty level via Foothill Family Service. Stone will play at 10 pm. When the band Stone volunteered to play at the 2002 toy drive Rock Angel volunteers were thrilled. Stone, has for three years, won LA's Best Blues Band at the Rock City News Awards. Stones' song 'Teaser' was featured in John Carpenter's Vampires, and all three members of Stone appear on the soundtrack of the John Carpenter film, Ghosts Of Mars. The NBC soap opera, Passions, has chosen numerous Stone songs for use in episodes airing throughout 2000, 2001 and 2002. Stone has 2 nationally released CD's "Somewhere in LA" and "Here Before" They are currently working on the follow up CD. For more information regarding Stone, please go to: www.StoneLive.com.\
08	SWEET STRYPER NEWS!: (Press Release)Stryper are set to record two new studio tracks for inclusion on a new Best Of Stryper album, due out in Spring 2003 from Hollywood Records. All four original members - Michael Sweet, Robert Sweet, Oz Fox, & Tim Gaines - will be entering the studio in January of 2003, for the first time in over 11 years, to record the songs. The Best Of CD will consist of the band's favorite songs plus the two new tracks - described as being "heavy & modern". Stryper T-Shirts are also to appear in the New Charlies Angel : Full Throttle Movie due out in Summer 2003! How cool is that?! Robert Sweet and Blissed have some new show dates around the corner. They are coming out to California for a few Dates in January, and then to Texas for a couple dates in February. Check out http://www.Blissed.biz for all the latest info.
08	BACK CATALOG IN BLACK: Sony has announced it will acquire AC/DC's back catalog as well as a 2 album deal, leaving the band obligated for one more studio album with Elektra Records. Sony plans on reissuing the band's back catalog with special booklets and possibly more goodies. DVD's are also in the works. AC/DC has sold over 140 million records worldwide and still sells out arenas. A new album is almost guaranteed platinum status, even though the band has been at it for 3 decades.
09	VIRGIN STEELE DVD: (Press Release) VIRGIN STEELE will perform a very special concert on Saturday, December 21st at The Downtown in Farmingdale, Long Island, NY. The Band will play an extra long set, and ... this show will be recorded for an upcoming live album/DVD!!! The night will be hosted by Long Island's Legendary Fingers and WBAB. 'RUSH' OUT AND BY THIS!: (SFK) RUSH will also see a new compilation come out in January titled “The Spirit Of The Radio (74-87)”. Tracks: Working Man, Fly By Night, 2112 Overture/The Temples Of Syrinx, Closer To The Heart, The Trees, The Spirit Of The Radio, Freewill, Tom Sawyer, Limelight, Red Barchetta, New World Man, Subdivisions, Distant Early Warning, Big Money, Time Stand Still and Force Ten. QUEENSRYCHE QLASSIC QOLLECTION: (SFK) There’s a new QUEENSRYCHE collection coming out titled “Classic Masters” in January. Tracks: Queen Of The Reich, Warning, The Killing Words, Speak, I Don’t Believe In Love, Anybody Listening?, Another Rainy Night, Silent Lucidity, I Am I, Bridge, The Voice Inside and Sign Of The Times. The band will also see their catalog reissued in a remastered format with the typical bonus tracks, etc. Those will be out starting in April.
10	CRADLE OF FILTH CANCEL ALL UK SHOWS Cradle Of Filth have now cancelled al their UK dates for this week, which were due to happen from December 11-13. This is because frontman Dani Filth is ill. GUNS N’ ROSES: ANOTHER RIOT Guns N’ Roses have apparently pulled their American tour. This follows fans rioting at the First Union Center in Philadelphia after a show by the band was cancelled at 11.15pm, more than two hours after GNR should have been onstage. The reason given was that one of the band had been taken ill. FLYNN TURNS DOWN DROWNING POOL Machine Head frontman Robert Flynn has apparently turned down the chance to audition for Drowning Pool. The latter are still carrying on the task of finding a replacement for Dave Williams, who died recently.
10	TOP ROCKERS BECOME AVENGERS Kiss’ Gene Simmons and Jane’s Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro team up with former Guns N’ Roses stars Slash and Matt Sorum to play a benefit show in Los Angeles on December 10. All proceeds go to animal rescue organisation Animal Avengers. MAIDEN PRODUCER SEEKS A…MAIDEN! Producer Kevin Shirley, who is to work with Iron Maiden on their next album, is currently seeking a female vocalist for a new project. What he wants is someone with a voice that matches Tina Turner with James Hetfield! Can you deliver in this style? If so, email CaveSearch@aol.com VAST STAR IS DREAMING VAST mainman Jon Crosby is to collaborate with new band The Dreaming on one song for their upcoming, debut album. The band includes one time Stabbing Westward singer Chris Hall.
10	NAME THIS BAND Former FenixTx man Will Salazar has put together a new band, but as yet doesn’t have a name. What he’s decided to do is run an online poll at www.rockingthescene.com, to get fans to vote for their choice of name. So join in the fun, and help christen Salazar’s new project. CHILI PEPPERS PLAN OUTDOOR SHOW The Red Hot Chili Peppers are to play a 30 minute set at Park City in Utah on December 20. This one-off outdoor gig comes at the end of the Chevy Truck U.S. Snowboard Grand Prix. AC/DC SIGN NEW DEAL AC/DC have signed to Epic Records in America. And the first releases under this deal will be revamped versions of ‘Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, ‘Highway To Hell’ and ‘Back In Black’. This is part of a strategy that will see the band’s entire back catalogue re-issued.
10	LOVE IN THE UK Love, featuring Arthur Lee, will celebrate the 35^th anniversary of their most famous album (‘Forever Changes’) by performing the record in its entirety with an orchestra. They’ll be playing at: Milton Keynes Stables January 11, Bristol Colston Hall 13, London Royal Festival Hall 15, Oxford Brooks University 16, Cambridge Corn Exchange 17, Brighton Dome 20, Sheffield Hallam University 21, Birmingham Academy 23, Liverpool University Academy 24, Leicester De Montford Hall 27, Newcastle Opera House 28, Edinburgh Queens Hall 29, London Royal Festival Hall February 3 (without the orchestra). There will also be a ‘secret show’ on February 1. CHILI PEPPERS MAN ON MARS Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea apparently guests on the debut album from the Mars Volta, which is due for release next year on Universal. The record is being produced by Rick Rubin, who also works with the Chili Peppers.
10	GUNS N ROSES TOUR CANCELLED?!?: MTV News along with opeing acts CKY have suggested that the GNR tur of North America has been cancelled. The opening band was told to pack up and leave, for there were no more dates that they would be needed for. MTV reports that Clear Channel Entertainment admits the December 6 and December 8 shows in Philadelphia and Monday's (December 9) show in Washington, D.C., were axed. The was scheduled to run for a few more weeks.
10	KAMELOT GOES EPIC!: (Press Release) Heavy metal music takes a turn towards the esoteric & atmospheric when, on February 4, 2003, Tampa Florida's melodic metal technicians KAMELOT unveil their much-anticipated new offering, 'Epica', through Sanctuary/NOISE Records. Continuing the band's grandiose tradition of composing challenging, multi-textured sound-scapes, 'Epica' emphasizes a lyrical and musical concept that takes the listener through a journey around the world, inspired by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's 'Faust'. Formed in Tampa, FL in 1991, KAMELOT has made a name for themselves by pushing the envelope with each album, incorporating elements of worldly influences with technically-proficient, emotive metal music. The development and consistent honing of their skills originates from the band's longtime lineup, which consists of vocalist Khan, guitarist Thomas Youngblood, bassist Glenn Barry, and drummer Casey Grillo. The band rose to critical acclaim with 1999's 'The Fourth Legacy', and achieved considerable sales success with 2001's 'Karma', as well as extremely well-received European tours. 'Epica' perpetuates KAMELOT's majestic evolution and inexhaustible vision, by fueling their already distinct sound with Gregorian chants, choirs, Olden European rhythmic ingredients, and even unusual instruments like the djembe, d-bass and bandoneón. The album was produced at Gate and Pathway Studios in Germany under the production supervision of stalwarts Sascha Paeth and Miro (known for their work with Angra, Rhapsody, Heavens Gate, Virgo, among others). Guest appearances on 'Epica' include guitarist extraordinaire Luca Turilli (of Rhapsody), vocalist Ian Parry (of Elegy), and vocalist/drummer/bassist Robert Hunecke-Rizzo (of Virgo & Heavens Gate). The culmination of KAMELOT's experience, 'Epica', takes the listener to places that words alone cannot describe. The complete track listing for 'Epica' consists of: 1. Prologue 9. Interlude III (At the Banquet) 2. Center of the Universe 10. A Feast for the Vain 3. Farewell 11. On the Coldest Winter Night 4. Interlude I (Opiate Soul) 12. Lost & Damned 5. The Edge of Paradise 13. Helena's Theme 6. Wander 14. Interlude IV (Dawn) 7. Interlude II (Omen) 15. The Mourning After 8. Descent of the Archangel 16. III Ways to Epica Look for a major tour and festival appearances to solidify in the New Year. Click below for exclusive Kamelot E-Card and streaming MP3 of "Center Of The Universe": http://www.noiserecords.com/kamelot/ecard1
13	T. REX CLASSIC TO BE RE-ISSUED ‘Electric Warrior’, the classic 1971 album from T. Rex, is to be re-released by Rhino in late February. This will come with bonus tracks, including previously unavailable material, plus an interview with the late Marc Bolan. NEW CLASSIC ROCK CLUB IN LONDON Night Train is the name of a new Classic Rock club happening in London every Wednesday at the Borderline. The fun lasts from 11pm to 3am with DJs Mikki Gee and Dashing Drewe. Entry costs £4, or £3 with a flyer. There will be guest DJs, plus live bands once a month. TOTO ARE ‘GLASSED’ Toto are to release the covers album ‘Through The Looking Glass’ via EMI on February 17. And the band play two British dates to celebrate their 25^th anniversary: London Shepherds Bush Empire February 18, Manchester Apollo 19.
13	ANTIPRODUCT: SPECIAL CD AntiProduct are issuing a special three-track sampler of songs from their new album ‘Made In The USA’. Copies cost £5 (plus £1 p&p), and everyone who buys one will have their name mentioned on the full version of the record. You may get a copy from: AntiProduct, 39 Godwin House, Thurtle Road, London E2 8PH. Make cheques/POs payable to ‘AntiProduct Music’. SPINESHANK CHANGE ALBUM TITLE Spineshank have now changed the title of their new album. Originally to be called ‘Violent Mood Swings’, it will now be released as ‘Self Destructive Pattern’. The album is currently being produced by GGGarth Richardson. THERAPY? CONFIRM NEW DRUMMER Therapy? have announced that Neil Cooper is the new man on the drum stool. And the new look band are currently working on songs for their next album, which should go into production shortly.
13	FU MANCHU’S NEW DEAL Fu Manchu have just signed a new record deal in Europe with SPV. Their first release is to be the album ‘Go For It – Live’, due early next year. SHARON OSBOURNE VS. THE QUEEN Sharon Osbourne has been asked to deliver an alternative speech to Her Majesty The Queen. This will happen at 3pm (UK time) on Channel 4 on Christmas Day - at exactly the same time as the Queen delivers her traditional speech. And at the same time as Krusher begins to address the nation on TotalRock!
13	FORMER DOKKEN DUO SIGN DEAL L/P, the band featuring guitarist George Lynch and bassist Jeff Pilson, both former members of Dokken, have a new deal with Spitfire. They should be releasing an album in the Spring. STRYPER RETURN Classic Christian rockers Stryper are to reunite to record two tracks for an upcoming compilation album, which is due out next year on Hollywood Records. The songs are to be co-produced by singer Michael Sweet. However, it’s being stressed by all concerned that this is not a full-blown reunion. WE WILL ROCK UK Norwegians WE and El Caco are to play two shows together next month. They happen at London Camden Underworld January 30, Nottingham Old Angel 31.
13	EIGHTIES MATCHOX IGNITE LONDON Eighties Matchbox B~Line Disaster are to headline The Garage in London on January 17. SOMETHING CORPORATE MARCH BACK TO THE UK Hotly tipped young Americans Something Corporate have revealed to Metal coven that they intend to tour the UK and Europe in March. The band will play a one-off show at The Marquee in London on January 16, before returning for a more extensive visit. AND THE MEEK WON’T INHERIT Despite reports elsewhere, it seems that Days Of The New mainman Travis Meek will not be joining the new band formed by the ex-Guns N’ Roses quartet of Slash, Izzy, Duff and Matt Sorum. Their search for a suitable vocalist goes on.
13	YNGWIE: AIRLINE MAYHEM Yngwie Malmsteen apparently threatened to attacked a fellow passenger on a flight to Tokyo after she threw a glass of water over him. This incident happened as a result of Yngwie making disparaging remarks about homosexuals.. And the whole thing was captured on tape. Wanna hear it? Go to www.blabbermouth.net HOLZNER QUITS TROUBLE Trouble bassist Ron Holzner has left the Chicago band. A replacement is expected to be announced soon. And Trouble still intend to record a live album at the House Of Blues in their home town next month. ‘THE OSBOURNES’ ARE BACK The second series of ‘The Osbournes’ is to hit the UK and Ireland from February 5, on MTV. The show will go out from 10pm.
13	KICK ARE ‘PARALYSED’ Croydon melodic rockers Kick currently have an EP called ‘Paralysed’ available by mail order. This features five tracks, including two from their upcoming album ‘K3’. Copies cost £5.50 (incl. p&p) from: Eagle i Media, 73 Temple Road, Croydon, Surrey CR0 1HW. Make cheques/Pos payable to ‘Kick’. FINCH FLY INTO A ’FARCE Finch, one of 2002’s most acclaimed bands, are to be the special guests on the Breakfarce show on Friday, December 13. Tune in to Julz & Dave from 7-9am (UK time), when you’ll also have the chance to win some Finch goodies. NO MERCY ON LONDON Testament, Marduk and Death Angel head the list of bands playing on the upcoming No Mercy tour. This will hit London on April 8, appearing at the Mean Fiddler. The rest of the bill features Die Apokalyptischen Reiter, Nuclear Assault, Pro-Pain, Malevolent Creation, Darkane and Callenish Circle.
13	LOSTPROPHETS WIN BIG AT WELSH AWARDS The Lostprophets picked up two awards at the recent Welsh Music Awards. They walked off with ‘Best Single For 2002’ (‘Shinobivsdragonninja’) and ‘Best Album For 2002’ (‘The Fake Sound Of Silence’). The Kennedy Soundtrack won the ‘Best Newcomer’ award. GUNS N’ ROSES: MORE TROUBLE As Guns N’ Roses officially cancel their US tour, there seems to be more trouble brewing within the camp. Unconfirmed reports have indicated that both guitarist Robin Finck and bassist Tommy Stimpson have left the band, and that there is a rift between Axl Rose and management company, Sanctuary. But we must stress, these are rumours not fact. VEX RED LEAVE LABEL Vex Red have parted with Virgin Records – and they are delighted to be out of the situation, The highly rated young UK rockers are currently working on a new album with producer Ross Robinson for release on an unspecified label next year. And they play The Marquee Club in London on December 15.
13	CRADLE REARRANGE SHOWS Cradle Of Filth have wasted no time in rearranging those UK shows they’ve just had to postpone. They’ll now happen at London Astoria April 21, Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall 22, Norwich Waterfront 23. Tickets bought for the original shows are valid for these dates. However, the band have also added a further date at the Astoria in London on April 20. But please note: tickets bought for the Astoria show on December 13 are only valid for the gig on April 21. LEE, ANDERSON WIN SEX CASE Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson have won nearly $1.5 million from online company Internet Entertainment Group, who released the couple’s infamous 1996 sex tape on both video and DVD. This settlement is as a result of a court case brought by Lee and Anderson against IEG. HALFORD’S JAPANESE EP Halford are to release a Japanese only EP in late January. The tracks featured will be ‘She’ and ‘Fugitive’, plus video clips for ‘Betrayal’ and ‘In The Morning’. Halford start a Japanese tour on February 11, supported by Children Of Bodom.
13	BLAZE GOES LIVE Blaze are to release a double CD live album called ‘As Live As It Gets’ through SPV on March 24. Blaze, of course, plays Totalfest 5, on Saturday January 18. Joining them on the bill will be Orange Goblin, Area 54 and Reactor. The show happens at the King’s Head Live in Fulham, with tickets costing £7. They available now from: TotalRock, Totalfest 5, 4 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3TZ. Make cheques/POs payable to ‘TotalRock Ltd.’. For further info, call the TotalRock Info Line on 020 7731 8799 during office hours, or go to www.totalrock.com. TOP ROCKERS SCORE BIG WITH BILLBOARD Nickelback, Creed and Puddle Of Mudd were all big winners at the Billboard Music Awards.. Each picked up four honours at the ceremony, which was held in Los Angeles.
13	HOPE FOR BRITAIN Boston hardcore band The Hope Conspiracy are coming to the UK soon to play the following dates: Leicester Charlotte February 19, Exeter Cavern Club 20, Swindon Victoria 21 (all with Defy and Johnny Truant), Sheffield Corporation 22, Dundee Reading Rooms 23, Durham Rowing Club 24 (all with Defy and Cry For Silence), Newport TJ’s 25, London Camden Underworld 26 (both with Defy). GUITARIST QUITS RIVAL SCHOOLS Ian Love has left Rivals Schools; the guitarist wants to pursue other musical interests. But the band will regroup early next year to start work on a new album, although it’s not yet known who will replace Love. (HED)P.E. ARE BACK IN ‘BLACK’ (hed)p.e. are to issue their new album, ‘Blackout’, in early March. This is to feature new guitarist Sonny Mayo, who’s recently been recording with them.
13	MACHINE HEAD GO TO ‘HELL’ Machine Head are to name their upcoming live album ‘Hellalive’. Due out early next year on Roadrunner, this CD mainly features the band’s show at London’s Brixton Academy on December 8, 2001. It will also have a live video of Machine Head performing ‘The Burning Red’.
13	BOC DIRECT TV BROADCAST!: (Press Release) On the heels of celebrating their 30th anniversary, legendary hard-rock band BLUE OYSTER CULT will kick off the New Year with the national, digital cable broadcast of 'A Long Day's Night' on DirecTV "FREEVIEW" this January 2003. "A Long Day's Night"is the band's most recent recorded concert and features the best of BOC's hits, including "Don't Fear the Reaper," "Burnin' For You," "Godzilla" and more. DirecTV "FREEVIEW"will broadcast the concert over 100 times, debuting on New Year's Day and continue every weekend in January -- Friday morning through Monday morning on Channel 103. 'A Long Day's Night' is available on both DVD and VHS through Sanctuary Visual Entertainment. (The DVD features bonus content that is unavailable on VHS and will not be broadcast on DirecTV.) The companion CD was released on CMC International Records. Both CMC International and Sanctuary Visual Entertainment are divisions of the Sanctuary Records Group. Lead vocalist/lead guitarist Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Eric Bloom, keyboardist/guitarist Allen Lanier, bass guitarist Danny Miranda and drummer Bobby Rondinelli recorded and filmed 'A Long Day's Night' on June 21, 2002, at the Skyline Stage at the Navy Pier in Chicago, IL. BOC fans from all across the country came to be a part of this well publicized event. The performance featured songs spanning the band's entire three-decade-long career, from 1972's self-titled debut album to 2001's 'Curse of the Hidden Mirror.' Everything from major mainstream hits to album tracks that appeal to die-hard BOC fans are highlighted. The CD and DVD/VHS were produced by BOC manager Steve Schenck. The DVD/VHS was directed by Mike Drumm. Throughout Blue Oyster Cult's impressive career, the band has earned a well-deserved reputation as "the thinking man's heavy metal band." BOC came out of Long Island, NY, and immediately delighted critics and fans. Utterly relentless touring developed and strengthened the fan base, and the band remains a fearsome road warrior to this day. 'A Long Day's Night' simply offers unquestionable proof that Blue Oyster Cult has thrived for 30 years because of the exciting evolution of its challenging music and its peerless ability to present the music to worldwide audiences through consistently electrifying live performances.
13	MNEMIC is Nuclear Blast’s newest signing, a 5 act fusion-metal band located at the far reaches of northern Europe, Denmark to be accurate. The band has existed for approx. 4 years. The music can best be described as a fusion of many existing genres. People have described the music as thrash metal, progressive metal or even numetal, but Mnemic are just calling it Fusion Future Metal. To sum it up briefly the music is best described as groovy polyrhythmic metal with catchy tunes that create a spacy atmosphere. Keyboards, samples and guitarsynths support the music. MNEMIC has been compared to bands such as Meshuggah and Faith No More. Watch out for further news!
13	The new album of NARNIA will be called "The Great Fall" and is scheduled to be released on march, 23rd. There will be nine tracks on the album, among them the epic track "The Great Fall Of Man", which is about 14 minutes! "The album is heavier and musically a more agressive Narnia than previous albums, but still it sounds Narnia with a lots of melody and fine musicianship", Christian Rivel says, who just became married and changed his last name as you can see. On "The Great Fall" there will be also some guest appearance, performed by Anders Johansson (HammerFall) and Eric Clayton (Saviour Machine). Last but not least Narnia also have a new bass player called Andreas Olsson, who played with Wisdom Call and Stormwind before. Expect a dynamic and unique metal album!
13	Sweden's SOILWORK will enter Helsingborg's Queenstreet Recording studios on Dec. 16 to begin recording their as-yet-untitled fifth full-length album. The band will track all guitars and keyboards at Queenstreet with Producer Fredrik Nordström before moving over to Uppsala's Dug-Out Recording to record the drums under the watchful eye of Daniel Bergstrand (MESHUGGAH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, STUCK MOJO). "We want to have a more 'alive' and acoustic sound to the drums this time," explained the band via their official web site. "We are also big fans of Daniel's previous work regarding drums on other albums." The vocals and the bass will once again be recorded at Studio Fredman, with the mix scheduled to take place at the same facility. "The songs [on the upcoming album] will probably sound a lot like [those on] 'Natural Born Chaos', but we are focusing on making even better choruses," the band stated. "We guarantee that you won't be disappointed."
13	Rocker Glenn Benton of the American heavy metal band Deicide and ex- Wing Kong runway model Shirley Woo are calling it quits on their four year marriage. Benton has said that he will tranfer ownership of the couple's 800 sq.ft.apartment in Jacksonville,FL, the couple's 2002 Kia Rio coupe, and has agreed to allow Shirley full custody of their sons Ching and Bobby Ching, and daughter ana wong benton. Benton, 48, who's been called the Father of American Death Metal has been with the band for nearly two decades, but is presently working on an excerise video with Billie Banks, Richard Simmons, and Jenny Craig. The singer/bassist will not be contributing Deicide styled songs to the video, but is presently working with Rod Morgenstein (ex-Winger/Dixie Dregs) and Scotti Hill (Skid Row) for excercise tunes. Benton's eldest son, from his marriage to Kenyan actress Rachel Bolboonti, named Oscar Benton plays in Fly High Rachel, North Florida's #1 Enuff Z Nuff tribute band. "It's great to see that music runs in the Benton Family," says a proud member of Glenn's ranch staff in Trenton,FL. Glenn is also working with Robbie Krieger (ex-Doors guitarist) and Nel Carter (ex-Gimme a Break star) on music for a Bananarama tribute cd due out this summer. "Bananarama and Flight of Seagulls, believe it or not, are the people that first put this whole Deicide thing of ours on the map, it's not payback time, and I want to make a quality tribute cd."
13	Unlike SYSTEM OF A DOWN's Serj Tankian, former S.O.D. and current M.O.D. frontman Billy Milano appears to be in favor of the U.S. going to war with Iraq. The following is Milano's "open letter" to Tankian, written in response to the S.O.A.D. singer's growing criticism of President Bush's policies in the Middle East: "Hey Serj, "Did your mother have any children that lived?? Why, you mention all these fine examples of America's imperialistic impositions, [yet] you fail to mention the fact that this has happened from the dawn of man. You cannot deny the simple fact that man conquers man. It has nothing to do with AMERICA and everything to do with POWER recognition and economic viability — in other words, BUSINESS. America is a BUSINESS. Did you just figure that out? Maybe your turbin is too tight. For a guy who claims to know about our country, you don't know shit. Maybe you should stop hugging trees and READ A BOOK!!!! "England ruled most of the world. Serj, why don't you tell the world how fucked up England is? Remember the saying, 'The sun never sets on the British Empire?' Of course, you've heard that, but you don't have the balls to tell England to go fuck themselves. Ever wonder why no one gives a fuck about the Armenian holocaust?? Because it happened 90 years ago. Stop living in the past! You weren't even alive asshole, but you were on Sep, 11 and living large in L.A., not ARMENIA!!! "In 1973, OPEC, with the specific purpose of punishing America, imposed an oil embargo because we back Israel. We have been attacked countless times because we back Israel. We absolutely need to find an alternate fuel source. They way to beat these bastards is to stop buying their oil. For right now, I am content with bombing the piss out of them. Once we stop buying their oil, they can feed themselves by eating the sand they shit in. "Another thing… On Sep. 11, Arab communities in Paterson, NJ and Jersey City, NJ, danced in the streets as the Twin Towers fell. There was little reaction from people to this other than DISGUST!! Much to the credit of the true AMERICAN. I personally think these communities should be burned to the ground and pissed on. Let's see them dance when that happens. "Serj, there are several terms for the kind of person you are. A person who uses his fame to bring attention to a plight but spends none of his own money to enact change. HYPOCRITE, LIAR, COWARD, DEMOCRAT!! If you find your balls, contact me, camel boy, at Xkrament@aol.com. I am correct that you own a computer? Maybe when you get out of your Jacuzzi or finish your sushi you bought on Hollywood Blvd., you'll show some balls and e-mail. "new M.O.D.* 'Rebel You Love to Hate' out April. Haha. "One other thing. I hope all these people with their 'NO BLOOD FOR OIL' shirts remember that slogan when it's 105 degrees in August and they turn on their new air conditioners or when it's 20 degrees out in January and they turn up the heat. These people are without shame! I personally sleep fine! So fuck Iraq, let's take the oil!!!!!"
15	`The founder and main lyricist of the band Deicide was asked to leave the band by their record label. Benton, initially sought to fight the order, but his band chose the wrong side. Benton leaves the band he formed and rumor has it, has been replaced by ex-CC/Six Feet Under singer Chris Barnes. The new Deicide record with Chris Barnes will be out in six weeks.`
15	Well Glenn's departure and replacement are all rumors, mind you, but my sources say Glenn and his rumored divorce were too much for the bassist/singer and he just couldn't deal with the pressures of being in a band that sold 10,000 units+ and dealing with a destructive marriage. Rumors about him and Shirley have been around all the time, some said that Shirley would get physical, throw things at Glenn, and cause him to deal with his troubles with a bottle of anisette and a box of kleenex. Glenn, according to rumors from Iowa, is working on a Micheal Bolton tribute record with George Micheal, Pink, and Barry & Maurice Gibb from the Bee Gees. Glenn, is also believed to have joined PETA, expressing remorse about torturing small animals throughout his course with Deicide. I personally have trouble believing that Glenn has become this big pussy all of a sudden...but maybe he was big pussy all along - not!
15	MUDVAYNE TOUR UK Mudvayne have just confirmed the following shows: Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms February 17, Manchester University 19, Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall 20, London Mean Fiddler 21. IN FLAMES STAR IS A PASSENGER In Flames vocalist Anders Friden has teamed up with members of Transport League, Headplate and Gardenian in a side project called Passenger. The band are said to sound like a cross between Depeche Mode and Rob Zombie. Expect an album in 2003. MATT MASON IS MURDERED Murder One will be Mighty Matt Mason’s special guests in the ‘Metal Lunchbox’ on Monday, December 16. Join the fun from noon to 3pm (UK time), as the Mighty One discusses musical extremity with one of Britain’s best exponents.
15	AMEN ANNOUNCE TOUR Amen are to play the following shows: Birmingham Academy 2 January 31, Manchester Academy 3 February 1, Leeds Cockpit 2, Newcastle Northumbria University 4, Glasgow Cathouse 5, Aberdeen Lemon Tree 6, Sheffield Leadmill 7, Leicester Princess Charlotte 8, Newport TJ’s 9, Bristol Fleece & Firkin 10, Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms 11, Brighton Concorde 2 12, Tunbridge Wells 14, London ULU 15. CAVE IN CONFIRM UK SHOWS Cave In will return to Britain early next year to play dates at: London Astoria February 8 (with Idlewild), Manchester University 9, Leeds Cockpit 10, Glasgow King Tut’s 11, Leicester Charlotte 12, Bristol Fleece & Firkin 16. A headlining date in London is also expected to happen on February 14. The band’s new album, ‘Antenna’, is to be issued in mid-March by RCA. TOWNSEND EXPANDS TOURING PLANS Strapping Young Lad, Zimmer’s Hole and the Devin Townsend band – all of whom feature the ubiquitous Townsend – have expanded their UK tour, The current list of dates is: Bradford Rio’s March 15, Bristol Bierkeller 16, Glasgow Garage March 18, Wolverhampton Wulfrun Hall 19, Manchester University 20, London Mean Fiddler 21.
15	KISS GO SYMPHONIC – WITH OR WITHOUT ACE Kiss have confirmed their symphonic show in Melbourne on February 28 will go ahead whether or not guitarist Ace Frehley is part of the performance. Apparently, Frehley has yet to make up his mind, but the rest of the band insist his decision won’t affect their plans. The show, dubbed ‘Kiss Symphony’, is to be filmed and recorded for future release. Kiss will play a short set by themselves, followed by some numbers with a string section, and then around ten numbers with the full Melbourne Symhony Orchestra.
15	AEROFEST? It seems the Ozzfest vibe is proving rather catching. Apparently, Aerosmith are considering the possibility of putting together a similar type of touring festival for next summer. No further details are yet available. PAPA ROACH GO TO NEPTUNE Papa Roach have teamed up with hip hop artists The Neptunes on a song called ‘Don’t Look Back’. This is likely to turn up on the soundtrack for new movie ‘Biker Boyz’, which stars Kid Rock. ARMORED SAINT TURN RED Armored Saint are to release a DVD version of their longform video ‘A Trip Thru Red Times’ in February. This will include extra footage such as a recent interview with the veteran metallers.
15	FIREBIRD: FOR THE THIRD TIME Firebird, the band featuring former Napalm Death/Carcass guitarist Bill Steer, have now confirmed the title for their third album. It’s to be called ‘Firebird No. 3’ and released in late February in Japan. Expect UK/European releases soon after. WRATH OF THE EMPEROR Defunct yet influential black metallers Emperor are to release what they term their final album through Candlelight on March10. Called ‘Scattered Ashes – A Decade Of Emperial Wrath’ and is a double CD compilation that will include both rare and previously unreleased material. The full track listing is: Disc One: ‘Curse You All Men’, ‘The Tongue Of Fire’, ‘The Majesty Of The Night Sky’, ‘Cosmic keys To My Creations & Times’, ‘Wrath Of The Tyrant’, ‘The Loss & Curse Of Reverence’, ‘An Elegy Of Icaros’, ‘I Am The Black Wizards’, ‘Thus Spake The Nightspirit’ (live), ‘Ye Entrancemperium’ ‘In The Wordless Chamber’, ‘With Strength Of Burn’ and ‘Inno A Satana’. Disc Two: ‘A Fine Day To Die’, ‘Aerie Descent’. ‘Cromlech’, ‘Gypsy’, ‘Funeral Fog’, ‘I Am’, ‘Sworn (Ulver Remix)’, ‘Lords Of The Storms’, ‘My Empire's Doom’, ‘Moon Over Kara-Shehr’, ‘Ancient Queen’, ‘Witches Sabbath’ and ‘In Longing Spirit’. PUNK UNPLUGGED Thursday, Midtown and Piebald are among the bands featured on the upcoming compilation album ‘Punk Goes Acoustic’, which features bands performing unplugged versions of their own songs. This is released in March by Fearless Records.
19	HALFORD KICKS OFF NEW YEAR WITH RETURN GIG: (Press Release) NEW YORK - The Metal God - ROB HALFORD - is making a triumphant return to the stage with two nights of Heavy Metal Thunder. Halford's debut on Sunday, December 29, 2002 at Mandalay Bay's House of Blues in Las Vegas, N.V., Canes in San Diego on New Years Eve, and House of Blues in Anaheim, Calif., Thursday, January 2, 2003 will be the band's first U.S. dates in more than two years. Heavy Metal fans are gearing up for the loud evenings, which also feature Thrash Metal veterans Testament, Vio-lence and Exhumed. Rob Halford returned to his musical Metal roots with the release of his critically and commercially acclaimed 2000 release "Resurrection." Considered to be the best recording Judas Priest never made, "Resurrection" catapulted Halford onto 100 stages world wide - culminating in their co-headline appearance with Iron Maiden at last year's Rock In Rio Festival in Brazil. The band performed for more than 200,000 fist-pumping fans, and then they disappeared into the studio, completing one of Metal's best live recordings, 2001's "Halford - Live Insurrection," only to turn around and begin 14 months of work on the follow up studio release to "Resurrection." Late this summer, Halford debuted their stunning new studio release, "Crucible," to an anxious and very loyal Metal community and then went on hiatus to recover from the past couple years’ schedule. Worldwide, The Metal God's devout fans have anointed "Crucible" as one of Rob's most creative works – absolutely the finest of his post-Priest career. Rob Halford's career spans more than 30 years in the recording industry. Most can't shake his dangerous image as the legendary, leather-clad screamer for Metal giants Judas Priest. Hundreds of thousands of fans are looking forward to filling up venues around the world once more to sing along with The Metal God and his anthemic mainstays "Breaking The Law," "You've Got Another Thing Coming" and vicious classics like "Painkiller" and "Made In Hell." Halford have also confirmed their much anticipated return to Japan, with dates scheduled for February 2003. North America and Canada are finally within the band's sights as well, with another impressive lineup expected to begin work with Halford in March 2003. “I can’t wait to get on stage in front of our audience,” said Halford. “The band has a punishing set prepared for those willing to step up. By the time they get through the strong lineup of extreme metal bands also on the bill, we'll get on the boards and unleash nearly two dozen hits covering the Priest, Fight and Halford catalogues.”
19	PARTIAL EUROPE REUNION: (Press Release) Partial EUROPE Reunion Brings House Down At Stockholm Club - Dec. 13, 2002 Three-fifths of the most celebrated EUROPE lineup - guitarist John Norum, bassist John Levén, and drummer Ian Haugland - reunited on stage at the Hard Rock Café in Stockholm, Sweden - Dec 13th. to perform the EUROPE classic "Rock The Night" and a version of LED ZEPPELIN's "Rock And Roll". The gig, which took place as part of the Christmas show of local radio station Rockklassiker 106.7, also featured an appearance by LION'S SHARE guitarist Lars Chriss, who also played with Haugland during the regular set before Norum and Levén joined the duo for the explosive finale. Haugland himself handled the lead vocal duties for the EUROPE track.
19	THIS 'AXEL' LIKES TO PLAY LIVE: (Press Release) German Guitar Maestro AXEL RUDI PELL Releases Adventurous 2-CD Live Album 'Knights Live' On February 4th, 2003 Through SPV Celebrating a career spanning nearly 20 years and 13 solo albums, Germany's premiere guitar hero AXEL RUDI PELL is releasing a special 2-CD live album entitled 'Knights Live' on February 4th, 2003. The 100+ minute set was recorded live (authentic, with no overdubs) at The Zeche in Bochum, Germany during PELL's 2002 European Tour in support of his most recent SPV studio effort 'Shadow Zone'. The performance captures the AXEL RUDI PELL band at its absolute finest. Mixed by renowned producer Charlie Bauerfeind (Blind Guardian, Helloween, etc.), 'Knights Live' is a testimonial to the band's evolution and importance in the hard rock genre. PELL has been instrumental in molding the European rock music landscape through the 80s & 90s, and has made a successful transition to the present millennium. His charismatic, soulful playing style is incomparable, and his Rainbow/Deep Purple-influenced sense of melody makes his compositions both memorable and alluring. Making the performance even more captivating is PELL's unique camaraderie with his bandmates. AXEL RUDI PELL has always been known for complementing his intense, dazzling guitar work with an unequivocal backing band, which currently consists of vocalist Johnny Gioeli (formerly of Hardline), bassist Volker Krawczak (from PELL's original band Steeler), keyboardist Ferdy Doermberg (formerly of Rough Silk), and veteran drummer Mike Terrana (known for his work with Artension, Rage, Metalium, Tony MacAlpine and Yngwie Malmsteen). 'Knights Live' amplifies one man's gifts through the outstanding nature of his accompaniment. An excellent group of musicians, the AXEL RUDI PELL band improvises flawlessly as they sweep through the 2 discs of live entertainment, with many tracks eclipsing 10 minutes in length. As with the band's most recent prior releases, 'The Masquerade Ball' and 'Shadow Zone', 'Knights Live' is marked to become an important piece of timeless German metal history.
19	FROM KANSAS TO AMERICA ONLINE: (Press Release) KANSAS' double live CD 'Device Voice Drum' on Compendia Music Group will be featured in America Online's Listening Party section starting December 16, 2002, and ending January 16, 2003. To access music from 'Device Voice Drum' on AOL during this time period, go to keyword: LISTENING PARTY The 'Device Voice Drum' CD is the companion to the critically acclaimed, best-selling DVD from America's finest progressive hard-rock band. Both the DVD and CD are available through Compendia Music Group. The 'Device Voice Drum' CD features a bonus multimedia video track, "Distant Vision," not included on the DVD. Vocalist/keyboardist Steve Walsh, vocalist/violinist Robby Steinhardt, guitarist Richard Williams, bass guitarist/vocalist Billy Greer and drummer Phil Ehart filmed and recorded a concert at Earthlink Live in Atlanta, GA, on June 15, 2002, staged specifically for the 'Device Voice Drum' DVD and CD. Featured songs include a mix of Kansas' biggest hits such as "Carry on Wayward Son," "Dust in the Wind" and "Point of Know Return" as well as die-hard fan favorites like "Journey from Mariabronn," "Cheyenne Anthem" and "Child of Innocence." The rarely performed track "The Preacher" features the vocal talents of 60 members of Atlanta's New Advent Choir. Kansas will begin a major tour with Styx and John W aitestartinginJanuary2003.Foranupdatedtouritinerary,visit www.kansasband.zl6 out this coming February on Now and Then Records and features an amazing cast of special guests: Marty Friedman /Guitar (Megadeath) Reb Beach /Guitar (Winger) Doug Aldridge /Guitar (Whitesnake/Dio) Kee Marcello /Guitar (Europe) Richie Kotzen /Guitar (Mr. Big and Poison) Jeff Watson /Guitar (Night Ranger) Jeff Scott Soto /Vocals (Yngwie Malmsteen/Talisman) Mattias Eklundh /Guitar (Freak Kitchen, currently signed to Steve Vai's label) Pete Lesperence /Guitar (Harem Scarem) Scott Van Zen /Guitar (LA Guitar Wars Winner) Howie Simon /Guitar (Jeff Scott Soto) Stevie Salas/Guitar (Stevie Salas) Drums: Glen Sobel (Beautiful Creature/Impelliteri) Bass: Daniel Pearson (Coolio/Jennifer Lopez) Keys: Ed Roth (Glenn Hughs/Mya/Impelliteri) Philip Bardowell/Background Vocals
19	WHITESNAKE TOUR SLITHERS INTO A GROOVE: (SFK) The WHITESNAKE site (http://www.whitesnake.com) has announced that joining DAVID COVERDALE on tour in 2003 will be guitarists DOUG ALDRICH and REB BEACH, Keyboardist TIMOTHY DRURY, Bassist MARCO MENDOZA and drummer TOMMY ALDRIDGE. The band will be touring with SCORPIONS and DOKKEN on the ‘Nice Package’ tour, with the first date set in Jacksonville, Florida on January 29.
19	NUCLEAR ASSAULT DESTROYS AGAIN!: (Press Release) The heralded and heavily anticipated return of the most gifted thrash metal giants thrusts into high gear in early 2003, when the original lineup of New York's NUCLEAR ASSAULT initiates a world tour throughout the New Year 2003 to support the upcoming 'Alive Again' live album for Screaming Ferret Wreckords. Confirmed dates will take the band through the US during the Winter (with openers Origin and All That Remains) and in Europe through the Spring on the No Mercy/Easter Festivals 2003 package tour with stalwarts Testament, Death Angel, Marduk and Pro-Pain. The band's lineup, consisting of vocalist/guitarist John Connelly, bassist Danny Lilker, guitarist Anthony Bramante, and drummer Glenn Evans made their presence known throughout 2002 on select performances & festival dates around the world in an effort to 'test the waters' - if the world was ready for their unique, dexterous yet uncompromising metal. The result set the wheels in motion for the upcoming all-out assault! In August, Bramante bowed out due to the commitments of his job and was replaced by the more than capable Erik Burke. Lilker comments on the upcoming tour: "It's gonna be great to finally tour again! People seem totally psyched that they will get to see us in the flesh again. We hope to see all diehard metalheads banging and moshing in the front..." Formed in 1984 by Danny Lilker (who has also been a founding member of Anthrax, S.O.D., Brutal Truth, among others), NUCLEAR ASSAULT enjoyed a ten-year career that spawned 6 studio albums & EPs and a host of world tours. While emitting a dark sense of humor, the band's catalogue acknowledged the gamut of social concerns, from political tyranny and environmental devastation to capitalistic excess and basic human apathy. Their 1989 opus 'Handle With Care' garnered much critical-acclaim, while its singles "Critical Mass" and "Trail Of Tears" received generous MTV airplay. The forthcoming 'Alive Again' live album represents NUCLEAR ASSAULT's first release in over 9 years. Lilker explains: "We will soon be releasing our new live album, so people can see for themselves that we still have it! I know a lot of thrash bands seem to be reuniting and some people are wondering 'Can these guys in their late 30's still hack it?' The answer is undoubtedly yes!" Not content to keep the reunion to a mere commemorative or nostalgic event, NUCLEAR ASSAULT is also planning a new studio record for the near future! Danny Lilker offers a sneak preview of what can be expected: "We are in the process of writing new material, and I can tell you that it's definitely in the style of the old stuff. Once again speaking for myself, I think the metal scene NEEDS an injection of classic thrash metal 'cos I've had enough of people thinking Linkin Park is metal. We'll have to show these youngsters how metal is really played!"
19	KHYMERA KORRECTION: (Press Release) Frontiers Records and STEVE WALSH would like to rectify some statements made by certain press contacts after some recent announcements. KHYMERA is NOT a new studio album from the Kansas lead singer, but a studio project built around the talents of Daniele Liverani (Genius / Empty Tremor) where Steve Walsh has been hired as a lead vocalist, while the backgrounds have been supplied by the likes of Joe Vana (Mecca), Thom Griffin (Trillion, Ambition) and Billy Greer (Seventh Key, Kansas). The concept of the album is to present some melodic rock / hard rock classic tracks sung by one of the best rock singers ever with a crisp mix provided by Mike Slamer.
19	HELLOWEEN GETS A COUPLE HELPING HANDS FROM MOTORHEAD: (Press Release) Veteran German power metallers HELLOWEEN are utilizing the services of MOTORHEAD drummer MIKKEY DEE during the recording sessions for their as-yet-untitled new album after regular skinsman Mark Cross (ex-Metalium) was struck “by the malicious (EBV) Epstein-Barr virus also known as Mononucleosis” this past September, according to the band's official web site. “[Mark will] need at least 4-5 months of recovering,” continued the band’s statement. “The symptoms of this virus are very dangerous and can leave serious marks in your health. It first destroys your entire immune system and leaves you no energy. Therefore Mark is still is too weak to do any kind of intense activities at the moment and strictly needs to rest by the doctor's orders. We all agreed on having Motörhead’s Mikkey Dee as the replacement for the recordings only! To avoid possible rumors, Mark Cross remains the drummer in Helloween, and we’re looking forward for the tour next year.”
19	STILL FOXY: (Press Release) BRITNY FOX has just released Fan Club CD#3 at www.britnyfox.net. The cd is entitled "The Bite Down Hard Demo Sessions" and features 19 Demo tracks. Demos versions of "Louder", "Six Guns Loaded" and "Lonely Too Long" are featured as well as unreleased tracks "Ready", "Sex't In Line", "See You On Me" and covers of AC/DC's "Riff Raff", Queen's "Stone Cold Crazy" & Creedence Clearwater Rivival's "Sweet Hitch-Hiker" First Batch of cds also contains hidden bonus tracks! Britny Fox's Fan club CD's #1 (Live At Froggy's) & #2 (Gudbuy T' Dean) are also available again for a limited time! In Other news, COMING SOON: Britny Fox's brand new studio album for Spitfire Records.
19	STRATOVARIUS BACK FROM HIATUS: (Press Release) After a 3-year hiatus, STRATOVARIUS return to the forefront of heavy metal with the release of Elements Part 1. Although Timo Tolkki (guitar) and Timo Kotipelto (vocals) released solo discs during the break (Hymns to Life and Waiting for the Dawn respectively), this will be the first new release from the complete lineup since 2000’s Infinite. In anticipation for the January 28th release of Elements Part 1, the first single from the disc, “Eagleheart,” will be available through Century Media mail-order very soon. The disc features two versions of the track, as well as the unreleased track “Run Away.”
19	WHITE SKULL CRACKED...JUST A LITTLE: (Press Release) Guitarist Nick Savio has left Frontiers act WHITESKULL. Why? "Musical differences" this time is the real reason. Nick has always been involved in hard rock and his growing interest in that kind of music brought the axeman to leave the band. Nick: "I had no more reasons to play Power Metal and I didn't want to damage the band's songwriting. So I discussed about it with the other band members and I decided not to leave the band until they would have found a right replacement" Band leader Tony Fonto’ says: "Being great friends, I already knew about Nick tastes, but I hoped he would have never left the band. We will stay friends and keep on managing our recording studio together in Vicenza. But the show must go on! After two months of auditions I'm proud to announce that Danil Bar is the new White Skull axeman!”
19	THIS BYRD DOES NOT FLY SOUTH FOR WINTER: (Press Release) Former FIFTH ANGEL founder/lead guitarist and solo recording artist "BYRD" (JAMES BYRD) has signed on for a third Byrd album with the European progressive rock/metal label Lion Music. The new album will be the 9th album of Byrd's career. The album will again feature the vocals of Michael James Flatters (Byrd and Takara). Other line-up details T.B.A. Recording of the new album is slated to begin at the beginning of the new year. No release date had yet been announced. For more information visit http://www.jamesbyrd.com
19	SAMAEL AND CATHEDRAL TEAM UP Cathedral and Samael will join forces to play the Mean Fiddler in London on March 3. Also on the bill are Without Face. And Samael release the live DVD 'Black Trip' through Century Media on January 27. METALLICA: MORE EURO DATES CONFIRMED Metallica have announced that they'll be headlining both the Rock AM Ring and Rock Im Park festivals in Germany next year. These happen between June 6-8. This is in addition to the band's just announced headlining appearance at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark, which is from June 26-28. The precise dates of Metallica's performances at all three events has yet to be made public. AVRIL COVERS SOAD! Avril Lavigne has covered System Of A Down! It's true - she's done an acoustic version of 'Chop Suey', Go to www.blabbermouth.net to hear what she makes of this TotalRock fave.
19	SLIPKNOT LINE UP RUBIN Slipknot will begin work on their new album in January, with producer Rick Rubin. The whole band will initially be involved, although both frontman Corey Taylor and guitarist Jim Root will then head back on the road in February with their other band Stone Sour. SOIL 'REDEFINE' NEW ALBUM Soil will tentatively call their new album 'ReDEFINE'. The band are currently working on songs and hope to go into the studio with an as yet unspecified producer early in the new year. STUCK MOJO ARE BACK Stuck Mojo have reformed - for one night only. The band will play a special New Year's Eve show in Atlanta. The line-up will be vocalist Bonz, guitarist Rich Ward, bassist Keith Watson and drummer Bud Fontsere.
19	OSBOURNES RENEW WEDDING VOWS Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne are to renew their wedding vows on New Year's eve in a special ceremony. This is to celebrate their 20 years of marriage. TESTAMENT BRING IN ZOMBIE DRUMMER Testament will be joined by Rob Zombie drummer John Tempesta for their upcoming series of shows on the US West Coast. This is because regular skinsman Jon Allen is dealing with a family emergency. WEEZER DRUMMER'S SPECIAL PROJECT Weezer drummer Pat Wilson has put together a side project called Special Goodness. Also featuring Rocket From The Crypt's Atom Willard, the band are to issue their debut album in March. It's called 'Land, Air, Sea', with Wilson playing guitar and singing.
19	MANSON SELLS PAINTINGS Marilyn Manson is selling limited edition copies of some of his watercolours. If you're interested in buying one of these - each is signed, numbered and limited to 25 copies - then go to http://www.marilynmansonartworkonline.com/mm.cgi. CYCLEFLY DUO GO ACOUSTIC Cyclefly pair Ciaran and Declan O'Shea are to play an acoustic show at the Half Moon in Putney on December 29.
19	OPETH IN UK AND IRELAND Swedish stars Opeth will be touring the UK and Ireland very soon, showcasing the acclaimed ‘Deliverance’ album. The dates happen at: Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms March 10, Manchester Hop & Grape 11, London Mean Fiddler 12, Exeter University 13, Glasgow Garage 14, Nottingham Rock City 15, Bradford Rio’s 16, Birmingham Academy 17, Dublin Whelan’s 19. The band will be releasing a new album, ‘Damnation’, in March/April, and are to tour over here again to coincide. SEPS READY NEW ALBUM Sepultura will work with producer Steve Evetts on their new album, work for which should start in January for a release later in 2003. BLUEBIRD FLY INTO UK Los Angeles band Bluebird are to play the following British shows: London Camden Barfly February 11, Bristol Louisiana 12, London Metro 13.
19	MOURNING HAS BROKEN Irish band Mourning Beloveth have signed a deal with Norwegian label Aftermath Music. Their debut album, ‘The Sullen Sulcus’, is released in January. RORY GOES FOLK The late Rory Gallagher is to have a collection of his folk recordings released by RCA on March 3. Called ‘Wheels Within Wheels’, this includes collaborations with the likes of Bert Jansch, The Dubliners and Lonnie Donegan. TOP STARS TIE THE ’KNOT Gordian Knot, the band featuring former Cynic bassist Sean Malone, are to have a new album called ‘Emergent’ released early next year on the Sensory label. Joining Malone are the likes of drummer Bill Bruford, guitarist Steve Hackett, plus his onetime Cynic bandmates, guitarists Paul Masvidal and Jason Gobel.
19	GOD GO TO HELL God Dethroned are to release their new album ‘Into The Lungs Of Hell’ through Metal Blade on February 10. Produced by Henrik Larsson, early versions of the album will include a bonus CD with live recordings from a show in Los Angeles. NIGHTWISH CONFIRM UK VISIT Finnish band Nightwish are to play at Bloodstock 2003, which is to happen at the Derby Assembly Rooms on August 29 and 30. They will also play a London date on August 31 at an as yet unspecified venue. DIAMOND DAVE SUES VAN HALEN David Lee Roth is suing his former band Van Halen and Warner Brothers Records over unpaid royalties. He claims to have been underpaid following an agreement between the band and label in 1996, which increased the royalty rate due to Van Halen.
19	SPEEDEALER SPLIT Texan band Speedealer have split up. No reason has been given for this decision. MANSON, LINKIN PARK IN GERMANY Marilyn Manson and Linkin Park have both been confirmed to play the Rock AM Ring and Rock Im Park festivals in Germany, which happen from June 6-8. Metallica have already been announced on the bill.
19	WITHIN TEMPTATION SIGN NEW DEAL Dutch band Within Temptation have signed a new deal with G.U.N. Records. The band will have their 2001 album, ‘Mother Earth’, re-issued on January 27, with four bonus cuts and a new cover. DEATHRIDE SIGN TO ROADRUNNER Californian band Deathride, who include Coal Chamber’s Dez Fafara in their line-up, have signed to Roadrunner. Their debut album is to be produced by Ross Hogarth, who in the past has worked with…Coal Chamber. Titled ‘Swinging The Dead’, the album should be out in July. PAIN OF COVER VERSIONS Swedih band Pain, the brainchild of Peter Tagtgren (Hypocrisy), are currently recording an album of cover versions for release next Spring by Stockholm Records. This is expected to include songs by the Beatles, Johnny Cash and Ultravox.
19	GUITARIST LEAVES HALFORD Halford guitarist Patrick Lachman has left the band to concentrate on his other project, Diesel Machine. Halford are currently auditioning potential replacements, but will use their producer Roy Z in the short term for live work. BANG YOUR HEAD: FIRST BANDS CONFIRMED Twisted Sister, Annihilator and Overkill are among the first bands confirmed for the Bang Your Head Festival, which happens in Balingen, Germany on June 28/29. So far, other acts announced include: U.D.O, Sodom, Dokken, Pink Cream 69, Axxis, Brainstorm, Hypocrisy, Bitch, Rob Rock, Amon Amarth and Angel Witch (playing their seminal first album). SHOVELHEAD LOOK FOR NEW MEMBERS Shovelhead are looking for a new rhythm guitarist and vocalist. If you live in the Inverness area of Scotland and can play/sing Metallica songs then email your details: shovelhead@mackenzie910.fsworld.co.uk. Or go to http://www.shovelhead1.cjb.net for more details.
19	ZWAN AND EYES ADRIFT ARE COMING Zwan and Eyes Adrift are both planning live debuts in the UK during February, with shows in London. The former, featuring the ex-Smashing Pumpkins pair of Billy Corgan and Jimmy Chamberlin plus A Perfect Circle’s Paz Lenchantin, play the Shepherds Bush Empire on February 12. Eyes Adrift, with ex-Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic, play the Borderline on February 4. NEWSTED CHALLENGES METALLICA Jason Newsted has issued a challenge to his former band Metallica to play a show with his current outfit Voivod. Apparently, the bassist reckons the latter would kick Metallica’s arse! END OF THE TRIADS Revenge Of The Triads, the band featuring Snake River Conspiracy’s Jason Slater, A Perfect Circle’s Troy Van Leeuwen and Charlie Clouser of Nine Inch Nails, have split up. This is apparently due to problems with their record company, LMC.
19	SOULFLY HIT EUROPE Soulfly are to tour Europe from January 26. But so far they haven’t confirmed any UK shows.
22	AFI PLAY SHEFFIELD AFI have just confirmed a show at Sheffield NBC on February 4. Their date in London at the Astoria on February is now sold out. The band have also just released a vinyl box set of their back catalogue. It’s available at www.nitrorecords.com JANE’S ADDICTION GET ‘HYPER’ Jane’s Addiction will finally release their eagerly anticipated new album ‘Hypersonic’ through Warner Brothers next summer. It was produced by Bob Ezrin. SKYCLAD ARE ‘NORMAL’ Skyclad are to release new album ‘A Semblance Of Normality’ early next year. It includes a track called ‘Roman Wall Blues’, which is based on a poem by W. H. Auden.
22	JOHN MAYER IN UK US singer/songwriter John Mayer returns to the UK to play Birmingham Academy 2 February 4, London Shepherds Bush Empire 5.
22	BADGER SLIPS INTO RUSH Badger will be airing an interview with Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson on Saturday, December 21. He'll also be giving away signed copies of the programme from the Canadian trio’s recent American tour, plus copies of the Slipknot DVD 'Disasterpieces'. So make sure you’re listening from 9pm to midnight (UK time).
22	SATYRICON: UK/IRELAND TOUR CONFIRMED Satyricon are coming to Britain and Ireland. The celebrated black metallers play the following dates: Bristol Academy February 21, Bradford Rio 22, Glasgow King Tuts 24, London Mean Fiddler 25, Manchester Hop & Grape 26, Dublin Temple Music 27, Birmingham Academy 28. PLACE OF SKULLS LOOK FOR BASSIST Tennessee based doomsters Place Of Skulls are still looking for a permanent bassist. The band intend to use the services of Greg Turley to record their new album in January, but want someone with the attitude to link up with former Obsessed frontman Wino and ex-Pentagram guitarist Victor Griffin. If you feel you fit the role, then email: placeofskulls@msn.com.
29	ADEMA CONFIRM RECORDING PLANS Adema are to start work on their second album early in 2003. And the record will be produced by Howard Benson. Expect a release during the Summer. MOTLEY STAR GETS REALITY TV SHOT Motley Crue frontman Vince Neil is one of the celebrities taking part in ‘The Surreal Life’, a reality TV series which starts airing in America on January 9. The show is based on the UK’s ‘Big Brother’ formula, with various people being locked together in a house for ten days, with the cameras trained on them 24/7. Others taking part include rapper MC Hammer, actor Corey Feldman, Gabrielle Carteris from ‘Beverly Hills 90210’) and Brande Roderick (‘Baywatch’). ‘DAREDEVIL’ SOUNDTRACK: MORE DETAILS The track listing for the ‘Daredevil’ soundtrack album is now partially confirmed. Among the songs set to appear on the record, due for release in February on Wind-Up, are: ‘Simple Lies’ – Endo, ‘Sad Exchange’ – Finger Eleven, ‘Until You’re Reformed’ – Chevelle, ‘Bleed For Me’ – Saliva, ‘Right Before Your Eyes’ – Hoobastank, ‘Bring Me To Life’ – Evanescence, ‘Let Go’ – 12 Stones, ‘Hang On’ – Seether, ‘Caught In The Rain’ – Revis, ‘Won’t Back Down’ – Fuel, ‘Learn The Hard Way’ – Nickelback, ‘For You’ – The Calling, ‘Evening Rain’ – Moby.
29	THERAPY? SIGN NEW DEAL Therapy? have just signed a deal with Spitfire Records. They’re presently working on a new album with producer Pete Bartlett at Parkgate Studios near Hastings. VIRGIN STEELE – LIVE! Virgin Steele have recorded and filmed a recent show in Long Island for release in 2003 on CD and DVD. The band played a three hour set, from which they’ll choose the final track listing. ENDO GET ‘RESTLESS’ Endo are to release their second album on DV8/Columbia in March. It’s to be titled ‘Songs For The Restless’.
29	FILTER STAR RETURNS TO ACTION After a spell in rehab, Filter mainman Richard Patrick is now back in action. He’s working on songs for a new Filter album, as well as teaming up with an undisclosed musician he met on the ‘Family Values’ tour; the pair are working on a song, possibly for a soundtrack. And Patrick’s also recording instrumental material for another project, called Carpet. All this is happening at his new home studio, which he’s called Abyssinian West. JANE JOINS MICHELLE Jane’s Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro is to guest on the next album from Michelle Branch, and the band’s bassist Chris Cheney may also get involved. The record, due out in April, is being produced by Scott Weiland of the Stone Temple Pilots. SLITHERYN ARE THE DOPE Chicago band Slitheryn are to go into the studio next month to work on new songs, with Dope frontman Edsel Dope producing the sessions. Slitheryn intend to use some tracks from the new sessions, together with some from a previous recording session with Slipknot’s Corey Taylor producing, to make up their debut album.
29	BUDGIE FLY INTO LONDON Budgie are to play the Mean Fiddler in London on January 10. PRETTY BOY FLOYD RETURN Pretty Boy Floyd are to come back to Britain early next year. The US glamsters play Nottingham Rock City February 8, Dudley JB’s 9 and London Camden Underworld 10.
29	HALFORD have been forced to postpone their scheduled three-date West Coast tour until late January after frontman Rob Halford was denied entry into the United States from London, England due to his work visa not being thoroughly processed by The United States Immigration & Naturalization Service (INS). The following is HALFORD's official statement on the matter: "Last evening (Friday, December 27, 2002), Rob Halford was denied entry into the United States from London, England due to his work visa not being thoroughly processed by The United States Immigration & Naturalization Service (INS). "Further, Rob's immigration attorneys are unable to begin resolving the matter until January 2, 2003, but they do expect the matter will be resolved on or before January 15, 2003. As a result, the HALFORD/TESTAMENT dates in Las Vegas, San Diego and Anaheim — December 29, 31 & Jan. 2 — will be rescheduled for late January — during the Super Bowl period. "We are extremely disappointed — as is everyone who purchased tickets and traveled in to Las Vegas, etc., to see the bands. We will work as fast as possible to get the rescheduled dates announced this coming week, and hope that you will consider attending the rescheduled performance(s). "If you have traveled into Las Vegas from afar, please contact HALFORD management directly at HalfordRob@aol.com and let us forward to you a complimentary item from the HALFORD web site, and an invitation to meet HALFORD when they are performing closer to your city during their 2003 tour. "HALFORD will depart on its Japan tour immediately following the late January/early February U.S. dates. For more information on HALFORD touring, please visit www.RobHalford.com."