First Album in Five Years, Lamb Of God, Out Now 

Following the Friday release of their new self-titled album, LAMB OF GOD is connecting with fans through daily online activities today through Thursday, beginning with a “live quarantine video” today at 12 noon EDT/9 a.m. PDT on YouTube. 

The video will feature three songs recorded by the band live from quarantine. Tune in to watch at https://lamb-of-god.lnk.to/QuarantineSessionVideo. 

Later today, guitarist Willie Adler will join Zia Records for a Facebook Live Q&A. Visit https://facebook.com/events/609025426405589/ at 7 p.m. EDT/4 p.m. PDT to watch.

An Instagram Live and Reddit AMA with vocalist Randy Blythe are planned for later in the week. 

Stay tuned for more activity announcements and details!

In addition to the release of the album, on Friday LAMB OF GOD premiered a video for Lamb Of God’s fourth single, “Gears,” and lyric videos for five of the album’s tracks. Watch the lyric videos at https://lambofgod.lnk.to/LOG/youtube. The highly anticipated album from metal’s reigning kings immediately made waves with press radio and sales, debuting at number one on Overall, Rock and Metal iTunes charts, and number one on Spotify’s Kickass Metal playlist. 

The fact that the band’s eighth studio effort would warrant ‘self-titled’ status is a testament to the band’s pride and satisfaction with these songs and this period in their creativity. 

A true collaboration between all members of the band, LAMB OF GOD’s eighth studio album is an amalgam of each individual’s contributions, blended to create a singular style. Guitarists Mark Morton and Willie Adler fuel the album with a mountain of riffs, taking what Lamb of God are known for, and unbelievably, upping the ante to new levels. The rhythm section of John Campbell, looming large as a rhythmic shadow, and drummer Art Cruz, who makes his studio debut with LAMB OF GOD here on this record, underpin the proceedings with passion, sweat and expansive dynamics. Vocalist D. Randall Blythe is as angry, insightful, and informed as ever. Never one to shrink from facing the darker aspects of our nature head-on, Blythe delivers with no punches pulled, and as only he and Lamb of God can in 2020. 

Audiences got a taste of the first new LAMB OF GOD music in nearly five years with “Checkmate” back in February, followed by “Memento Mori” and the most recent single, “New Colossal Hate.” All four songs will appear on Lamb Of God, the follow-up to VII: Sturm und Drang (2015). The album was once again produced by collaborator Josh Wilbur (Gojira, Korn, Megadeth, Trivium), fueled by a mountain of riffs and looming rhythmic shadows. It is also the band’s first record with Cruz, who sat behind the kit with LAMB OF GOD in 2018 and became an official member the following year. In addition to Chuck Billy, the new album features a guest appearance from Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed). Blythe sounds more driven and insightful than ever on Lamb Of God, offering up the angriest and most comprehensive diatribes, addressing modern life in the current landscape, of his storied career thus far.  

LAMB OF GOD propelled heavy metal into the new millennium two decades ago with the prophetically titled New American Gospel. They followed with 2003’s As the Palaces Burn, which made the Rolling Stone list of the Top 100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time. Ashes of the Wake (2004) was the first LAMB OF GOD album to be certified gold by the RIAA, followed by Sacrament (2006), which debuted in Billboard’s Top 10. Wrath (2009) earned the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Hard Rock, Rock, and Tastemaker charts and was No. 2 on the Billboard 200. Those No. 1 positions were repeated with Resolution (2012). VII: Sturm und Drang (2015) debuted at No. 3 in North America and in the Top 5 in several countries. The single “512” from VII: Sturm und Drang received a Grammy nod for the “Best Metal Performance,” making it LAMB OF GOD’s fifth Grammy nomination.

In 2020, LAMB OF GOD is re-energized and unrelenting, ready to lay claim to the metal throne.

LAMB OF GOD is:

D. Randall Blythe – Vocals

Mark Morton – Guitar

Willie Adler – Guitar

John Campbell – Bass

Art Cruz – Drums

LAMB OF GOD online:

www.lamb-of-god.com

www.facebook.com/lambofgod

https://twitter.com/lambofgod

http://instagram.com/lambofgod

Available For Free Download via PublicEnemy.com

Public Enemy is back with a new song and video, “State of the Union (STFU),” a fiery return to the frontlines as they take on Donald Trump and his fascist regime. PE is giving away the track to fans for free at www.publicenemy.com starting today. It is also available to stream on all major DSPs worldwide.  “State of the Union (STFU)” was produced by DJ Premier.  An unflinching statement about the destruction the current administration has unleashed on the country and its people, “State of the Union (STFU)” speaks truth to power while urging people to fight against racism, injustice and oppression with their vote.    It’s the latest in a string of powerful messages about Trump from PE frontman Chuck D, who has addressed Trump’s policies and rhetoric for the past several years through his work with Prophets of Rage and as a solo artist. “Our collective voices keep getting louder. The rest of the planet is on our side. But it’s not enough to talk about change. You have to show up and demand change,” says Chuck D. “Folks gotta vote like their lives depend on it, ‘cause it does.” “Public Enemy tells it like it is,” added Flavor Flav. “It’s time for him to GO.”

WATCH “STATE OF THE UNION (STFU)” OFFICIAL VIDEO

FOLLOW PUBLIC ENEMY:Facebook * Twitter * Instagram
FOLLOW CHUCK D:Facebook * Twitter * Instagram

New York’s blackened, death metal juggernaut ALEKHINE’S GUN returns to the forefront of the underground metal scene with the release of an annihilating new single titled, “21,” which debuted yesterday at ConsequenceOfSound.net and is streaming now on YouTube. The song is the band’s first new material in six years, since the release of their 2014 heralded breakout EP, …And Kings Will Fall, and will be featured on a forthcoming EP, Year of the Lazerus, that’s due out at a future date. Details of the release are forthcoming.

STREAM “21”: https://youtu.be/wchZMf371Zk

Commenting on their long-awaited new single, guttural vocal powerhouse Jessica Pimentel states, “Inspired by the traditional Tibetan Buddhist prayer ‘Praises to the Twenty-One Taras,’ ‘21’ is a musical offering and an act of paying homage to the primordial power within by delving deeply into calling upon the forces of fierce compassion and the wrathful aspect of love and wisdom needed in times of fear and uncertainty in order to seek refuge and gain enlightenment. Reaching beyond time and space, the bond between us and the true nature of reality is unbreakable, unstoppable and eternal.”
 
ALEKHINE’S GUN blends elements of thrash, black metal and death metal with subtle undertones and nods to New York hardcore of the 90’s and all things extreme. In this unique combination they have unlocked a captivating sound and style and created a feel that is notable and recognizably their own.
 
In 2012, ALEKHINE’S GUN released a four-track EP entitled Meditations In Wrath with Jeff Martinez (Desolate) on guitar, Dan Martinez (King Hell) on bass and Jessica Pimentel “The Crusher” (Everybody Gets Hurt/Desolate) on Vocals and guitar. This NYC veteran lineup delivered a greatly received, high-energy sonic assault with their debut release. Their music is laced with a barrage of head-banging riffs and groove, colored with dark harmony and accented by relentless, technical drumming. Adding to all of this are fierce, in your face vocals and lyrics steeped in the profound wisdom of ancient Buddhist texts, vibrant imagery, and raw emotional honesty. ALEKHINE’S GUN brings you a primal, transcendent, electric energy. This fury is not only felt in recordings but wherever they go as they have been marked as being stand out, vigorous, dynamic performers who hold their own in any live venue alongside world renowned bands. In 2014 with the sophomore release entitled …And Kings Will Fall still proved ALEKHINE’S GUN is a force to be reckoned with. They bring to you heart and passion; Insight and meditation; Wrath and spirit.
 
“We are Alekhine’s Gun from Brooklyn, New York. This is who we are. This is what we do.”
 
For More Information:
https://www.facebook.com/AlekhinesGun/
https://alekhinesgun.bandcamp.com/

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO HERE

In light of current events, Body Count announces the release of their radio single “No Lives Matter” today via Century Media Records. Watch the music video for “No Lives Matter”, which is off their 2017 full-length album Bloodlust HERE. 

The track’s message is more relevant than ever as Body Count frontman Ice-T states in the music video intro, “…when I say ‘Black Lives Matter’ and you say ‘All Lives Matter’, that’s like if I was to say ‘Gay Lives Matter’ and you say ‘All Lives Matter’. If I said, ‘Women’s Lives Matter’ and you say ‘All Lives Matter’. You’re diluting what I’m saying. You’re diluting the issue. The issue isn’t about everybody, it’s about black lives, at the moment.”

Century Media Records Director Philipp Schulte adds, “As a company we felt it was necessary to release this single as a way to actively participate in the change that is needed to combat police brutality and racism. It is a first step in doing our part to inspire unity and transformation.”

Headbang at Home with the “I Am The Hurricane” Live Music Video HERE

New Live Album & DVD/Blu-Ray, For The Love of Metal Live,
out July 31, 2020 via Napalm Records | Pre-Order HERE

Experience electrifying DEE SNIDER concert moments and more from your home!

Legendary heavy metal frontman, actor and radio personality DEE SNIDER recently announced the July 31, 2020 release of For The Love Of Metal Live, a larger than life live album and DVD/Blu-Ray set available via Napalm Records. Music lovers around the world are craving the return of live concert experiences, and For The Love Of Metal Live isjust the thing to keep live music where it belongs – with the fans! Combined behind-the-scenes footage, various detailed interview clips, insightful personal commentary and electrifying live performances make this release an entertaining experience that every heavy metal fan needs in their collection. Today, DEE SNIDER has revealed a new live video cut from For The Love Of Metal Live – featuring his energetic performance of “I Am The Hurricane”! The seductive, metallic first notes of the track combine with ominous guitar-driven atmosphere as DEE SNIDER dominates the powerful lyrics of the track – denying opposition at his every turn and leaving doubters in his wake. The track takes on a whole new level of confidence in its live setting, as it transforms into an even more heartfelt rallying cry to all to rise above hostility. DEE SNIDER says about “I Am The Hurricane” Live: “If there is ever a repeated message in my songs it’s this: Stand up, fight back, don’t take any sh*t from anybody, and f*ck anybody who gets in your way or tries to put you down. It’s a message that constantly needs to be reinforced in us all, myself included. “I Am the Hurricane” is that reinforcement!”

Watch the For The Love Of Metal Live version of  “I Am The Hurricane” HERE

The For The Love Of Metal Live DVD/Blu-Ray and accompanying live album (available in various formats, see below) features audio captured from several DEE SNIDER festival performances worldwide – from the United States to Europe, Australia and beyond. In addition to tracks from Snider’s solo catalog like “I Am The Hurricane” and “For The Love Of Metal”, Twisted Sister favorites such as “I Wanna Rock” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It”, and even a cover of AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell”, the audio portion of For The Love Of Metal Live also features a brand new original studio track, “Prove Me Wrong” – a thrashing, confident metal hit. Check out the recently released lyric video for “Prove Me Wrong” HERE. Select audio editions and the DVD/Blu-Ray also feature additional bonus live material and personal footage, with the DVD/Blu-Ray including even more special bonus interview content. The interviews feature Snider himself discussing his famed PMRC hearing, opening for Motörhead and more. DEE SNIDER fanatics won’t want to miss For The Love Of Metal Live!

Pre-Order For The Love Of Metal Live HERE

DEE SNIDER says about the state of live music in 2020: “While live entertainment has been curtailed for now, we cannot let the spirit of live entertainment die within us. Any music I’ve ever loved and listened to, I always imagine what it would be like live. When I was young and couldn’t go to shows, all I had was what I thought the bands would be like live. We must keep our desire to see and hear the great new music out there in concert, because that’s its true habitat.  Bands on stage with fans cheering them on in the audience is the way the rock gods intended it to be.” For The Love Of Metal Live Track Listings: Digital Album 1. Lies Are a Business                               2. Tomorrow’s No Concern                               3. You Can’t Stop Rock ’N’ Roll                4. The Beast                                                      5. American Made                                             6. Under the Blade                                           7. The Kids Are Back                                          8. Become the Storm                              9. We’re Not Gonna Take It                              10. I Am the Hurricane                                      11. Burn In Hell                                                  12. I Wanna Rock                                                        13. For the Love of Metal                                  14. Highway To Hell                                          15. Ready to Fall                                               16. The Fire Still Burns                             17. Roll Over You                                               18. Prove Me Wrong      CD 1. Lies Are A Business 2. Tomorrow’s No Concern 3. You Can’t Stop Rock ‘N’ Roll 4. The Beast Live 5. American Made 6. Under The Blade 7. The Kids Are Back 8. Become The Storm 9. We’re Not Gonna Take It 10. I Am The Hurricane 11. Burn In Hell 12. I Wanna Rock Live 13. For The Love Of Metal 14. Highway To Hell 15. Prove Me Wrong   DVD/Blu-Ray 1. Lies Are A Business 2. Pain of Traveling (Interview) 3. Tomorrow’s No Concern 4. You Can’t Stop Rock ‘N’ Roll 5. New Record (Interview) 6. The Beast 7. American Made 8. Under The Blade 9. Song Writing (Interview) 10. The Kids Are Back Live 11. Become The Storm 12. We’re Not Gonna Take It 13. WNGTI (Interview) 14. I Am The Hurricane 15. Burn In Hell Live 16. Rock of Ages (Interview) 17. I Wanna Rock 18. For The Love Of Metal 19. AC/DC (Interview) 20. Highway To Hell 21. Credits 22. Ready To Fall (Bonus Track) 23. The Fire Still Burns (Bonus Track) 24. Roll Over You (Bonus Track) 25. Suzette (Interview) 26. Hearing (Interview) 27. Strangeland (Interview) 28. Lemmy (Interview)   For The Love Of Metal Live will be available in the following formats: -Deluxe Earbook Edition: CD, Bonus CD, DVD, Blu-Ray & 7″ Single with Lyric etching – Limited to 500 copies worldwide -Shirt & Deluxe Earbook Edition Bundle – USA Napalm Webstore Only -8 Page Digipack with Sleeve (CD, DVD, Blu Ray) -8 Page Digipack with Sleeve (CD, DVD, Blu Ray) & Shirt Bundle -2LP Black Gatefold & DVD -2LP Black Gatefold & DVD & Shirt Bundle – USA Napalm Webstore Only -2LP Silver Gatefold & DVD – Limited to 200 copies worldwide (Napalm Webstores Only) -2LP Silver Gatefold & DVD & Shirt Bundle – USA Napalm Webstore Only -Digital Full Length Album

Albert and Joe Bouchard are best known as founding members of Blue Öyster Cult. The original line-up sold millions of albums for Columbia Records, with such classic songs as “Don’t Fear the Reaper” and the #1 hit on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart “Burning For You”. Both contributing to songwriting, and lead vocals on some of their greatest songs, such as Albert’s vocals on “Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll”, and Joe’s on “Hot Rails To Hell”.

Albert’s infamous cowbell part in “Don’t Fear The Reaper” was the basis of the classic Will Ferrell skit on SNL, which also starred Christopher Walken. With “The Reaper,” an all-time classic on YouTube and every other digital platform, with zillions of views, the Bouchard brothers are forever cemented in pop culture.

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE – MORE COWBELL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVsQLlk-T0s

ALBERT EXPLAINS THE COWBELL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFTFTXDOzAc

Now they are ready to embark on their next venture together with RockHeart Records. With multiple albums being readied for release, the Bouchard’s manager, Jeff Keller, suggested the idea of forming a new imprint label that would be owned and operated by the Bouchards, with Keller’s assistance. Keller sought a partnership with a label that could assist with the new imprint label and the distribution, manufacturing, and marketing. “I had previously worked on a release with Deko Music and I was impressed with their team, experience, and the enthusiasm. Deko loved the idea of the imprint label and their team was excited to work with us,” said Keller. This led to the birth of RockHeart Records and a new partnership with Deko Music. Deko Entertainment president Bruce Pucciarello states, “Deko is thrilled to be partnering with RockHeart Records in releasing Joe and Albert’s new music. Having been fortunate enough to preview this material I can promise fans (because I am a big one) that they won’t be disappointed.”

Joe Bouchard will release his brand new solo album ‘Strange Legends’ on July 31st. The first single and lyric video “Forget About Love” will drop on June 19th, with the follow up “She’s A Legend” dropping on July 17th. Keep checking back at Deko Entertainment as Joe will continually take you on a special behind the scenes song by song look at ‘Strange Legends’.

For the last two years, Joe has worked tirelessly on his 6th and best solo album. For the production of this album he enlisted the help of Micky Curry, a drumming powerhouse, who has played with Hall and Oates, Alice Cooper and more. He is currently the drummer for Bryan Adams, playing on all of his big hits. He has over 40 gold records in his archives.

Several of the songs were written by Joe Bouchard and lyricist/sci-fi writer John Shirley. John Shirley is a long-time lyricist for Blue Öyster Cult, and has written dozens of sci-fi novels. He was the co-screenwriter for ‘The Crow,’ starring Brandon Lee. Other songs on the album were written by the late John Elwood Cook, a very prolific songwriter, who wrote many songs on Joe’s earlier solo albums. Joe’s album also includes a cover of Ray Davies and the Kinks’ “All Day and All of the Night.”

Joe says, “I really got to explore the production and mixing of this album like nothing I’ve ever done before. The guitar sounds are especially well produced. I play all the bass on this album, one thing that many of the Blue Öyster Cult fans miss on other projects, and wanted to hear more of. The vocals and guitars fit so well with Micky’s drums. It’s the best I’ve ever done.”
There are limited edition bundles (while supplies last), which can be ordered via:

JOE BOUCHARD STORE
https://www.merchbucket.com/collections/joe-bouchard

Product Includes:
– One (1) Joe Bouchard – Strange Legends (Autographed) CD
– One (1) Joe Bouchard – Signature Guitar Pick
– One (1) Joe Bouchard – Strange Legend Poster
– One (1) Joe Bouchard – Strange Legends Shirt

– Exclusive Early Download of “Forget About Love” Before Anyone Else

LOOK FOR ALBERT’S ALBUM RE IMAGINOS this fall.  This is his own personal updated take on the Imaginos Album by Blue Öyster Cult from 1987.  

Coming soon on RockHeart Records and Deko Entertainment.

“Strange Legends” Tracklist:
1.The African Queen
2. Forget About Love
3. Walk of Fame
4. Hit and Run
5. Racin’ Thru the Desert
6. She’s a Legend
7. All Day and all of the Night
8. Once Upon a Time at the Border
9. Bottom for the Bottomless
10.Strangely in Love
11.Winter

WATCH FOR MUSIC PREVIEWS, LYRIC VIDEOS, AND MORE ON SPOTIFY AND YOUTUBE.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
www.joebouchard.com
www.dekoentertainment.com

Steel Panther’s Concert To Save The World Is A Global Success With Fans And Critics Alike – Future Livestreams Being Considered

People know the all too famous stories of ‘N Sync, Backstreet Boys, O-Town and countless others that rose to the top of the pop charts. The one band that got away from Lou Pearlman (the man behind their success) was the little-known boy band F.P.C. (Four Pump Chumps). The band was known for their infectious tracks that combined more rock sensibilities than the usual pop music of the more known boy bands of the day. The band started to get some notoriety with one of their early songs “Let’s Get High Tonight” that almost got them a meeting with Pearlman. The meeting never happened and Michael Starr, Satchel, Lexxi Foxx, and Stix Zadinia would eventually ditch the choreography for a return to spandex and hair spray as the now world-famous Steel Panther. 

The song has found a new life on the band’s latest release Heavy Metal Rules and the F.P.C. (Four Pump Chumps) version can be seen here: https://youtu.be/W2FQM2j8Lss. 

The new video release comes on the heels of the band’s first ever live stream concert they played on June 7^th. The virtual Concert To Save The World was a global success amongst critics and fans alike. The concert aired from The Drum Channel Studio at Drum Workshop in California that featured full stage production, multiple cameras, crowd noise and special guest appearances by Rudy Sarzo and Rob Riggle. Tickets cost just $15.00 with proceeds going to benefit Heavenly Pets Animal Rescue (the location that hosted the band’s recently announced All Day Kitty Cam) and Live Nation’s Crew Nation Fund (benefitting all touring personnel affected by the Covid-19 pandemic). Journalists from Loudwire, Ultimate-Guitar, The Oakland Press and numerous others checked out the stream live, and spoke favorably of the 105-minute concert event. Steel Panther is currently in deep internal discussions and planning to figure out a time for another livestream and more information will be made public as soon as it is available.  

Steel Panther recently announced their newest guitar pedal – The Butthole Burner. Made in the USA, the latest distortion pedal from the collective brain trust features the exact same circuit as the now infamous Pussy Melter pedal. The limited production run Butthole Burner will retail for $199.99.  Not immune to the effects of the current Covid-19 pandemic as their partying has come to a stop because drug dealers are not classified as essential personnel, Steel Panther has set up an interest free 4-month payment plan for all self-quarantined musicians that might want to purchase The Butthole Burner. Also, anyone that purchased the original Melter or last year’s Poontang Boomerang delay pedal will receive 10% off their purchase. Fans must be logged in to their Panther store account and use the code “Melter10” to receive the discount.

Anyone who orders TheButthole Burner will be entered for a chance to win a limited number of “Golden Tickets” that comes with Penis Chili Pepper seeds (so purchasers can grow their own butthole burner peppers at home) and a $50 gift certificate to the band’s merch store.

Pre-orders for The Butthole Burner are now available here: https://bit.ly/buttholeburner.

Steel Panther are currently sitting home practicing social distancing and self-gratification thanks to the Coronavirus. The band is planning to return to the road during some month that will kick off in some city with some other bands once the world returns to normal. More information for all things Steel Panther can be found at www.steelpantherrocks.com. 

ABOUT STEEL PANTHER:  For the uninitiated, Steel Panther was formed in 2000 and is comprised of Michael Starr (lead singer), Satchel (guitarist), Lexxi Foxx (bass) and Stix Zadinia (drums). Hailing from Los Angeles, the epicenter for rock n’ roll in all its debauchery and glamour, Steel Panther has established themselves as the world’s premier party band, melding hard rock virtuosity with parody and criminally good looks. Steel Panther is a global phenomenon with four full-length albums, touring across the world, platinum-level You Tube status and high-profile television appearances such as Jimmy Kimmel Live, Larry King Now, and FOX NFL Sunday.  Rolling Stone avowed, “There’s a reason Steel Panther have transcended their origins as a cover band playing the Sunset Strip,” while Metal Sucks declared, Steel Panther’s concept is genius…their songwriting is…preposterously snappy – and relatable.”

“Lamb of God”

Lamb of God

Epic

Producer: Josh Wilbur

Tracks: 10

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

After a five year lapse veteran Virginia Metallers Lamb of God return with a brand new studio album simply titled “Lamb of God”. The ten track release which was produced by Josh Wilbur and is being released via Epic Records is the follow up to the bands critically acclaimed 2005 album “VII: Sturm und Drang”. “Lamb of God” is the first studio release to feature drummer Art Cruz who replaced Chris Adler after his departure from the group in 2019.   

Lamb of God wastes no time getting to the point with their latest self titled studio offering. The albums opening track “Momento Mori” features a haunting spoken lyric passage courtesy of Lead singer Randy Blythes while an equally eerie rolling guitar riff plays in the back background moments before giving way to a full on bombastic assault of your senses. “Momento Mori” is also the longest track of on the album clocking in at just under six minutes giving you ample time to get comfortable for the remaining nine tracks all of which pack an equally aggressive punch. Tracks like “Check Mate”, “New Colossal Hate” and “Resurrection Man” feature impressive dueling guitar work by Willie Adler and Mark Morton. The two players really complement one another in their attack giving each track a killer mix of equal parts shredding and chugging. Drummer Art Cruz is equally impressive across the board as his playing fits in seamlessly with that of bassist John Campbell providing a thunderous attack of low end thunder. “Lamb of God” also features a couple guest spots courtesy of Hatebreed front-man Jamey Jasta on the song “Poison Dream” and Chuck Billy of Testament on “Routes”. I highly recommend checking out both of those tracks as each of the guest performers spots add a little something special to an already impressive canvas.      

From front to back “Lamb of God” is a full on knock to your senses. Josh Wilbur hit it out of the park with the overall production of the album as it sounds great no matter if it’s played through ear buds or on large speakers. Each member’s performance seems to have been carefully crafted to insure it tied into the next without issue. Art Cruz undoubtedly had some big shoes to fill in his new full time role and he more than delivered as the band has never sounded tighter. Well worth the price of admission “Lamb of God” is a fitting soundtrack to this chaotic and uncertain time.   

Track Listing:

1.) Momento Mori

2.) Check Mate

3.) Gears

4.) Reality Bath

5.) New Colossal Hate

6.) Resurrection Man

7.) Poison Dream (feat. Jamey Jasta)

8.) Routes (feat. Chuck Billy)

9.) Bloodshot Eyes

10.) On The Hook

Be sure to check out our exclusive interview with Lamb of God Bassist John Campbell here

John Campbell is the bassist for the Grammy nominated heavy metal group Lamb of God. On June 19^th the Richmond, VA based band will release their 8^th studio album titled “Lamb of God”. This release is the follow up to the highly acclaimed 2015 album “VII: Sturm und Drang” and is the first to feature Art Cruz on drums. Media Mikes had the chance to speak with John recently about the albums creation, the bands lines up change and what it’s like being in a band during the current world pandemic.

Adam Lawton: The bands previous albums have always contained lyrical themes and topics. Was this the case for the album?

John Campbell: We have always been mildly political and focused on darker, more unpleasant aspects of life. That certainly hasn’t change. I think what has changed is that some of the things we speak about on the record are coming to pass in ways you wouldn’t imagine. It’s an incredibly crazy time when things going on start to match the lyrics of a Lamb of God song.

AL: When you are coming up with lyrics and themes is that a process everyone is involved in?

JC: It is mostly Randy. Mark and Josh our producer have a hand in things as well and I have thrown my two cents in there also. Primarily though that is a Randy exercise.

AL: At what point in the five years since the bands previous album did things start coming together for the new album?

JC: We started quite a while ago actually. During that time we were approached by Slayer to be a part of their final tour. We figured we could put recording off for a summer and then go back to it. The run with Slayer ended up lasting a year and a half. As our part of that was winding down we knew we had to get off the road and focus on writing.

AL: Were you trying to work on the album at all while you were on the road or, is that not something the band typically does?

JC: That’s not something we generally do. I can’t speak for Randy because I know he does a good deal of writing regardless if it’s going to end up as lyrics or not. The same can be said for Mark and Willie as they are always writing riffs. Those guys have studios in their homes where they are tracking pretty frequently. For the most part there is a solid line of when we touring and when we are working on an album.

AL: With this being drummer Art Cruz’s first album with you guys where there any adjustments you had to make to incorporate his style and playing into the bands creative process?

JC: The adjustments I had to make were very minimal. Art being his own person has his own style, taste and licks. His drumming was heavily influenced by Lamb of God so he already spoke the language so to speak. There is an element of fell that comes with playing in a band for a long time and that literally only took a second for us to put together with Art. From a tone stand point there is always an adjustment with each record. I try to play of the other tones of the band and go with what fits in the frequency range. I am not too savvy when it comes to those types of things so I leave a lot of that to Josh Wilbur

AL: Prior to going in to the studio were there any reservations about recording with a new drummer given that it was going to be the first time working with Art in the studio?

JC: We actually met Art seven or eight years ago when he was playing in the band Wings of Plague. We got to know him as a person and became friends with him during that time. ON that tour he would actually come out and I think play the song “Black Label” with us to end the show. When it came time that we needed a fill in Art was available and willing. He just nailed it and after touring with him for awhile and the situation calling for it, it was a no brainer that he be in the band in every way possible. 

AL: This was not your first time working with producer Josh Wilbur correct?

JC: Correct. I would have to look on the internet to see how long we have been working with him (Laughs) I want to say that he first started working with us on “Sacrament”. That was in 2006 and we have been working with him ever since.

AL: Do you ever worry that working with the same producer over a long period of time will cause a certain level of complacency?

JC: No, not at all! Josh Wilbur is an amazing person professionally and as a human. He is incredibly creative and very aware of things like this. He goes in to an album to try and create the best possible piece of art he can. Josh is great with suggestions and helping us along in the process. He understands the band and all of our personalities very well and that’s a god send.

AL: The pandemic has caused multiple problems around the word and within the music industry both from a release stand point and touring. How are you guys planning to work with that given you won’t be able to do the things bands traditionally do to support a new record?

JC: We are trying to make sure that everything we do or plan on doing is within the safety of the public and ourselves. We are all in this together. I am certainly not crying about releasing an album during a pandemic. This is just a very crazy time that the world is going through. Things are day by day and I really hope people will take that time to focus more on love and positivity instead of attaching to hate and negativity. We do have some things in the works for promoting the album but I don’t want to say anything just yet and jinx them. (Laughs) We are working on some things though.

Be sure to check out our review of “Lamb of God” here

Stream POWER TRIP’s Live In Seattle 05.28.18 HERE.

Texas metal quintet POWER TRIP surprises fans this week with a new release, issuing a crushing new live album. Live In Seattle 05.28.18 was issued overnight through Dark Operative and is now streaming in its entirety on all digital platforms. 

Live In Seattle 05.28.18 was recorded at Neumos while POWER TRIP was on their extensive tour with Sheer Mag, Red Death, and Fury. It has since been mixed and mastered by the band’s front of house engineer, Zachary Rippy of Sound Signal Audio. Through their searing crossover delivery, POWER TRIP unloads some of the choice cuts from their discography including “Executioner’s Tax (Swing of the Axe),” “Conditioned To Death,” “Firing Squad,” “Manifest Decimation,” and more, with eleven pummeling tracks packed into an energetic forty-three-minute set. 

Stream POWER TRIP’s Live In Seattle 05.28.18 at THIS LOCATION.

POWER TRIP offers this release as a way of saying thank you to all supporters, friends, and allies over the years. 

To support the band directly and take some of the sting out of numerous tours and live appearances being cancelled amidst the COVID-19 worldwide epidemic, digital purchases of the set are available via POWER TRIP‘s official Bandcamp page HERE. 

The set can be streamed now across all free and premium digital services. Find a comprehensive list of all the most popular music services for quick links HERE. 

Live In Seattle 05.28.18 Track Listing:

1. Drown (Intro)

2. Divine Apprehension

3. Suffer No Fool

4. Soul Sacrifice

5. Executioner’s Tax (Swing Of The Axe)

6. Crucifixation

7. Heretic’s Fork

8. Conditioned To Death

9. Firing Squad

10. Manifest Decimation

11. Crossbreaker 

Stand by for additional updates and news on POWER TRIP to post shortly.

Watch the Official Music Video for “The Heresy” HERE

Eighth Full-Length Album, A Wonderful Life,Out June 19 via Napalm Records |Pre-Order HERE

Foster the future and nurture the landStitches and sutures, divisions in sandMass evacuations, Sanctions for land It’s time we stand for somethingWalking hand and hand

Top-charting heavy rock/metal machine MUSHROOMHEAD recently made their prodigious return with the announcement of their upcoming full-length oeuvre, A Wonderful Life – the eighth release of their benchmark career – scheduled for release on June 19, 2020 via Napalm Records.

A Wonderful Life clocks in at a whopping 70+ minutes with its four bonus tracks – leaving a total of 17 stellar compositions in its wake for fans to devour. Today – after impacting at Active Rock radio with the first of those compositions to be released, the single “Seen It All”, and garnering over a million views on its accompanying music video in only a matter of weeks – the band has dropped another official music video for a new track “The Heresy”, released last week to the acclaim of fans and critics alike.

Hair-raisingly dynamic and socially-inclined, “The Heresy” is a melodic, haunting rally cry featuring the stunning lead vocals of Ms. Jackie, which were recorded at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios in London. The new music video sees the band continue their tradition of releasing cinematic music videos of the highest quality, this time taking place inside of a post-apocalyptic bunker! Vocalist J Mann described the track as, “The soundtrack to a dystopian delirium, cinematic and surreal!”

MUSHROOMHEAD mastermind and drummer/percussionist Skinny says about the video:

“We wanted to do something a little more thought-provoking this time around. With the current state of the world going to Hell in a hand basket, we wanted to incorporate something that delivered the swift transportation of certain doom. The manufacturing of war power and the stockpiling of faith. The willful destruction of the past, the future, and ultimately humanity.”

Watch the new official music video for “The Heresy” HERE:

Pre-Order A Wonderful Life HERE 

Available in several enticing formats (see HERE), A Wonderful Life is accented by the sharp production of band mastermind/drummer Skinny, as well as the standout mixing prowess of Matt Wallace (Faith No More, 3 Doors Down), also recognized for his work on the band’s standout album, XIII.

At its start, an ominous choir invites the listener into A Wonderful Life – introductory track “A Requiem For Tomorrow” smoothly shifts into an industrial-metal inspired, grooving punch to the gut juxtaposed with a melodic, synth-laden chorus. This sets the stage for stocky, chant-worthy anthems such as “Seen It All” and hair-raising, politically-inclined tracks like “The Heresy” and “Carry On”, both featuring the sinister multi-voice attack of new full-time vocalist Ms. Jackie and returning longtime vocalist J Mann, with an extra strike from aforementioned new vocalist Mr. Rauckhorst on the latter. Tracks like “What A Shame”, “I Am The One” and “Madness Within” will prove a treat for new and diehard MUSHROOMHEAD fans alike – providing the macabre inspiration followers have come to crave with a weighty dose of galloping drums and bone-rattling guitars, to boot. 

MUSHROOMHEAD attacks track after track with a refreshed focus, delivering a carefully-curated selection of certified future hits. A Wonderful Life re-cements the band’s position as one of the most consistently impactful heavy bands of our generation.

A Wonderful Life Tracklist: 

1. A Requiem for Tomorrow

2. Madness Within

3. Seen it All

4. The Heresy

5. What a Shame

6. Pulse

7. Carry On

8. The Time has Come

9. 11th Hour

10. I am the One

11. The Flood

12. Where the End Begins

13. Confutatis

14. To the Front (Bonus Track)

15. Sound of Destruction (Bonus Track)

16. Another Ghost (Bonus Track)

17. Lacrimosa (Bonus Track) 

A Wonderful Life will be available for purchase in an array of formats (click HERE) – including digital, CD digipak, and black or multi-colored vinyl – as well as in exciting bundle arrangements featuring limited edition skateboards and cover art t-shirts. Plus, all first edition vinyl pressings of A Wonderful Life include a cardboard punch out MUSHROOMHEAD mask. Hurry, many formats are available in limited quantities and are going fast!

Stay tuned for more coming soon from MUSHROOMHEAD! 

MUSHROOMHEAD is:

Mr. Rauckhorst – Vocals

J Mann – Vocals

Ms. Jackie – Vocals

Dr. F – Keyboards & Bass guitar

Tankx – Guitar

Stitch – Keyboards & Samples

Diablo – Drums/Percussion

Skinny – Drums/Percussion

“Lust For Life” Deluxe Edition

Iggy pop

Virgin

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Included as part of the upcoming “The Bowie Years” 7 disc set exploring Iggy Pop’s Berlin-era releases “Lust For Life” The Deluxe Edition will also be made available separately and includes the original release of “Lust For Life” along with a second disc “TV Eye” which is a live album featuring rare outtakes and alternate mixes. Also included is a 40 page book of lyrics, photos and interviews housed in special multi-fold packaging,

More than 40 years after its initial release Iggy Pop’s “Lust For Life” remains as one of the most influential albums ever made as to this day it continues to inspire and influence artists of all genres both past and present. Disc 1 feature’s a newly mastered version of 1977’s “Lust For Life” courtesy of Tony Dixon. Each of the 9 tracks sounded great with the new mastering as there is just enough freshness added to make it the release shine on any of today’s audio format while still staying true to the albums original sound. Personally I really enjoyed tracks such as “The Passenger” and “Neighborhood Threat” as they just sounded so good blasting through my speakers that I had to listen to them multiple times.

Disc two of the release titled “TV Eye: 1977 Live” is a collection of liver performances from the year of the album’s release. Not a bad collection however, The audio does vary from song to song given not all the live recordings are from the same concert or appearance. A couple EQ tweaks took care of this fairly quickly making for a decent addition to the set.

If you don’t already own this release I highly recommend the Deluxe Edition as you will surely enjoy the new mastering and the other bonus material included in this package. If you are a long time Iggy fan there may not be enough here to warrant a repurchase however if you are live recording fan then you will need this for your collection you also get the 40 page booklet and alternate packaging which is pretty cool on its own. Both this title and “The Idiot” are available now or if you want to wait until the end of June and get the complete 7 disc “Bowie Years” Collection both new versions of “Lust For Life” and “The Idiot” are a part of that set.

Disc 1: “Lust For Life”

1.) Lust For Life

2.) Sixteen

3.) Some Weird Sin

4.) The Passenger

5.) Tonight

6.) Success

7.) Turn Blue

8.) Neighborhood Threat

9.) Fall In Love With Me

Disc 2: “T.V. Eye: 1977 Live”

1.) T.V. Eye

2.) Funtime

3.) Sixteen

4.) I Got A Right

5.) Lust For Life

6.) Dirt

7.) Nightclubbing

8.) I Wanna Be Your Dog

Analog synths are the unstoppable weapons of the french canadian electronic band from Montreal, Le Matos. Its musical imprint is a powerful dancemachine, mix of pop melodies and melancholic sounds inspired by 80’s movie soundtrack composers such as Vangelis, John Carpenter, Tangerine Dream, Shuki Levy and Goblin.

The band scored films like “Turbo Kid”, “Summer of ’84” and the recently released “EXODE”, the haunting sci-fi web series. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with the men behind the band, Jean-Philippe Bernier and Jean Nicolas Leupi to discuss their music, how they got their band name and what is it was like working on these films/web series.

Slay At Home, a first of its kind virtual metal music and art festival organized by Frank Godla of Metal Injection, is set to air this Friday and Saturday (May29th & 30th) beginning at 3PM EST. The event will fundraise in support of two great charity organizations; Musicares and Global Giving. 

NEW VIDEO TRAILER WITH LINE UP (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6X-A1s6VrU)

The completely free event will be an artfully curated livestream show with exclusive never-before-seen performances from over 30 bands, cover song collaborations, commissioned music from artists that will debut at the fest, special guest appearances, art installations and much more!

The official schedule has now been released via the festival website, and is broken into hourly groups, with organizer Frank Godla explaining the set up: 

“By keeping the set times between 5 and 15 minutes for each artist, it allows me to not only keep things moving, but mix it up in ways that conventional festivals simply can’t. Every single hour will contain big names and emerging artists right next to each other. I’m trying to look at the bright side of our current situation, and not only make this an entertaining way to see the artists you love flex their creativity in new ways, but hope this event acts as a place of discovery for every viewer out there. Finding a band or artist to fall in love with is the mark of a great festival to me, and it’s my honor to share the work of these amazing individuals I curated because I’m passionate about them. I’ve been in touch with all of them every step of the way, and some even managed to throw me a few surprises. I’m honored and humbled to have all of them part of this, they truly went above and beyond to showcase their craft for the Slay At Home fest, and I can’t wait for the world to see something really special come to life this weekend.”

The free livestream is scheduled for 3PM EST both days in an effort to raise funds for the MusiCares Covid-19 Relief Fund helping artists, crew and industry workers during financial crisis, as well as the Global Giving Coronavirus Relief Fund, an organization helping front line workers in need during the crisis. See the listings below for details, as well as the festival website. 

WHERE TO WATCHYou can find the livestream on any device you own at Metal Injection’s YouTube and Facebook pages, and by the direct links below. 

Friday 3PM(EST) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2ClyUJ11DASaturday 3PM(EST) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs19f6tPc5E

The festival will include never before seen performances from:

Suicide Silence Tesseract 

Gavin Rossdale of Bush

Matt Heafy of Trivium 

Twelve Foot Ninja 

Tyler Bates 

Steve ‘N’ Seagulls

Darkest Hour

Allegaeon 

Entheos

Der Weg einer Freiheit

O’Brother 

Khemmis 

Silvertomb 

Mantar 

Astronoid

Employed To Serve 

Spirit Adrift 

Spotlights

Cadaver

Andy Gillion 

Johnny Booth

Panamama

Moon Destroys 

Nitesoil

Contracult Collective 

Spylacopa

Del Judas

Myrone

Chronus

AA Williams

Angel Vivaldi 

GlerAkur 

Jo Quail 

Commissioned music created to debut at the festival including performances from:

“Pallid Veil” Luc Lemay (Gorguts) Dave Davidson (Revocation / Gargoyl) Liam Wilson (Azusa, The Dillinger Escape Plan) Elliot Hoffman (Carbomb)  

“Digital Ink” Ben Weinman (The Dillinger Escape Plan, Suicidal Tendencies)Billy Rymer (The Dillinger Escape Plan, END)Brian Sullivan (Thoughtcrimes) 

“Solo Set” Roy Mayorga (Stone Sour) “DJ M’s Wacky Attacky”Manuel Gagneux (Zeal & Ardor) 

Cover collaborations with performances by:

Pustulus Maximus (GWAR) 

Tiziano Volante (Zeal & Ardor)

Trevor Strnad (The Black Dahlia Murder)

Sacha Dunable (Intronaut)

Johnny Kelly (Silvertomb / Type O Negative)

Ash Pearson (Revocation)

Brody Uttely (Rivers Of Nihil)

Gwarsenio Hall (Two Mins To Late Night)

Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth)

Steve Zing (Samhain/Danzig)

Hank Hell (Silvertomb)

Pepe Clarke (Kyng) 

Jesse Korman (The Number Twelve Looks Like You)

Conor Marshall (Sylosis)

Greg Burgess (Allegaeon)

Frank (Metal Injection) 

Mrs. Smith  

Phil Pendergast (Khemmis)

Justine Jones and Sammy Urwin (Employed To Serve) 

Kevin Antreassian (The Dillinger Escape Plan)

DJ Scully (The Number Twelve Looks Like You)

Billy Rymer (The Dillinger Escape Plan)

Scott Carlson (Repulsion)

Ra Diaz (Suicidal Tendencies)

Phil Demmel (ex-Machine Head)

Marta Demmel (Bleeding Through)

John Tempesta (The Cult, Rob Zombie)

Mike Tempesta (ex-Powerman 5000)

Joey Vera (Armored Saint)

Graham Bonnet (Rainbow / MSG)

Guest Appearances By:

Gost

Don Jamieson (That Metal Show)

Jose Mangin (Sirius XM Liquid Metal)

Brian Slagel (Metal Blade Records)

Charlie Benante (Anthrax)

Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed)

Tony Foresta (Municipal Waste)

Chuck Billy (Testament)

Chef Brian Tsao 

Chef Chris Santos

Jessica Pimentel (Orange Is The New Black)

Rob Caggiano (Volbeat)

Art Installations By:

Mario Duplantier (Gojira)

Vincent Castiglia 

Trine Grimm

Jodi Cachia 

Zein

Carin Hazmat

Nathaniel Shannon

Kevin Wilson

Rodrigo Fredes

Vertebrae 33

Stefan Raduta

SHARE NEW TRACK
“PTA”

Chicago bred trio The Lawrence Arms will release Skeleton Coast, their first album in six years, on July 17. The band offers fans a glimpse at the record with the release of the first single from the new record, “PTA.”

Skeleton Coast was recorded 30 miles east of El Paso, TX at Sonic Ranch Studios with longtime producer Matt Allison. It was kind of like album camp in the sense that we were in this very remote setting for two weeks and really focusing on making the record. That was a very different experience for us because we’ve always made our records in Chicago which is home and all the things about home are in the way,” says vocalist and guitarist Chris McCaughan.

The album contains the elements of the band’s sound that fans have come to love for the past two decades but recontextualizes them in a way that somehow sounds perfectly aligned with this strange time in our collective history. Although it was written and recorded before the Coronavirus upended the world, the band’s seventh studio album sounds eerily prescient as it imagines an apocalyptic future where coyotes croon and wolf packs roam free. “For a band who has been around as long as us, this is about as urgent of a record as we could make,”vocalist and bassist Brendan Kelly explains. “It may be kind of dark but it’s really about searching for light in the darkness and finding it, as small as those moments may seem. That’s sort of where we’re at: Collecting the scraps of things that could make for a bearable existence in dark times.”

SKELETON COAST TRACK LISTING 
1. Quiet Storm
2. PTA
3. Belly Of The Whale
4. Dead Man’s Coat
5. Pigeons and Spies
6. Last Last Words
7. Demon
8. Ghostwriter
9. How To Rot
10. Under Paris
11. Goblin Fox Hunt
12. Lose Control
13. Don’t Look At Me
14. Coyote Crown

The Lawrence Arms have never had any agenda apart from just having fun and making good music. Since forming in Chicago in 1999—the trio of bassist/vocalist Brendan Kelly, guitarist/vocalist Chris McCaughan and drummer Neil Hennessy—have made albums that continually challenge the boundaries of their sound. In the process they’ve carved out a distinctive identity in the punk community that’s simultaneously gritty, beautiful, melodic and mutinous.