>>> 08/03/04

VISCERAL BLEEDING AND NEUROTIC RECORDS INK DEAL

Swedish furious deathmetal outfit VISCERAL BLEEDING have just inked a deal with NEUROTIC RECORDS for the release of their second full length album entitled "Transcend Into Ferocity" which will be the follow up to 2002's "Remnants Of Deprivation" album. "Transcend Into Ferocity" includes 9 ferocious and precise deathmetal tracks including "Fury Unleashed", "Fed To The Dogs" "Fire Took His Face", "When Pain Came To Town" and "Indulge In Self Mutilation". Apart from the 9 songs, there will also be a multimedia part including pictures, a biography as well as a professional recorded videoclip of the song "Fury Unleashed"

"Transcend Into Ferocity" will see the light of day on May 11th 2004 which will be supported live intensively later this year.

More info on http://www.neurotic-records.com

>>> 04/03/04

IMPERIA has finishing the recordings of their debut-cd. Its working title is "The Ancient Dance Of Qetesh". Expect a May-release...

NEMESEA have started the recordings of their debutalbum at Franky's Recording Kitchen...

More info on http://www.coldbloodindustries.com

>>> 03/03/04

MORBID RECORDS NEWS:

The MORBIDE FESTSPIELE 6,66 VHS-Video is now ready for delivery. You can expect great live footage from Bonestorm, Harmony Dies, Eminenz, Blood, Manos, Ingrowing, Hellblazer, Birdflesh, Desecration, Prostitute Disfigurement, Neuraxis & Exhumed.

March 29th will be the day for a sound beating:

IMMORTAL RITES from Schwäbisch-Gmünd /Germany play fascinating, groovy and unique end Death Metal ! Their debut „Art of Devolution“ was produced by Alex Krull/ATROCITY at Mastersound Studios. Guestmusicians include Alex Krull & Martin Schmidt from ATROCITY, as well as Liv Kristine / ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY/LEAVES EYE. Release date will be March 29th 2004. . The guys plan to appear on various summer festivals as the Summer Breeze or the Party-San.

The Brutal US Death Metal scene will be enriched by yet another strong force on March 15th 2004. DARK DISCIPLE, hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, have signed with Morbid Records and their first, grooving masterpiece „Unholy Hate Gore“ does definitely hold up against acts like Deicide, Dying Fetus, Deeds Of Flesh or Brodequin. Recorded at Hit and Run Studios (DYING FETUS, MISERY INDEX). Definitely worth checking out !!

Chicago`s Deathmonster DISINTER are currently adding the finishing touches to their new album. The new title is „As we burn“, the album will contain ten Death Metal thunderstorms in usual US quality standard. Release is planned for June 14th 2004

Bavarian cultgrinders COCK AND BALL TORTURE have completed recordings for their third offering entitled “Egoleech, which will hit the stores June 2004. The album takes up the thread of the predecessor and will surely develop into another milestone of the genre.

East German Splatter-Death Metalheads PROFANATION are not 100% satisfied with the recording of their second mu-sick-al output „Its Lunch Time Again“ so they will undertake major reconstruction. Unfortunately we can not confirm a definite release date yet.

Our Illinois Porn Gore heroes LIVIDITY have found a new guy to handle the low end frequencies, CHRIS CHAMPBELL, and plan to record the 3rd killer "Used, Abused and left for Dead" this Summer/Autumn. The release is planned for late 2004.

Czech Death Metal institution HYPNOS has decided to produce their third inferno under the supervision of Harris Johns again. Release can be expected late 2004. The band will then tour with Altar, as matters stand right now.

More news can be found at http://www.morbidrecords.de

>>> 01/03/04

Withering Surface have signed a 2 album deal with Italian label Scarlet Records...
Scarlet Records is the home of bands such as Agent Steel, Terror 2000, Hatesphere and Invocator, and then now also Danish melodic metallers Withering Surface.
The band's forthcoming album "Force The Pace" is produced by Tue Madsen (Mnemic, The Haunted, a. o.) and will be released in Europe ultimo June 2004.
Scarlet Records are presently negotiating with several labels in Japan and USA for the release of "Force The Pace" in those territories around fall 2004.
The new album will contain 10 tracks and signifies the band's most aggressive, heavy and melodic work to date, emphasized by the powerful production of Tue Madsen.

http://www.scarletrecords.it

>>> 01/03/04

The Italian metal act HIGHLORD finished the recording of their fourth album entitled "Medusa's Coil" at New Sin Studios. The new album will be released in May 04.
"Medusa's coil" tracklisting: 1-Medusa's Coil 2-Far from the light of God 3-Dancing with Destiny 4-Scarlet tears 5-Where my hero lies 6-Moonseas 7-Your story too 8-The Hand of God 9-Tough Boy (Japanese bonus track) 10-Tough Boy - Karaoke version (Japanese bonus track)

CELESTY are mixing their second album "Legacy Of Hate" at Fantom Studios in Finland. Antti Railio is the new talented singer in the band. Richard Andersson (Time Requiem) will appear as guest musician on a track. The band has also used a choir on this recording.

SKYFIRE has just finished the recording of the drums at Los Angered Studios. The band will produce the rest of their third album at Underground Studios.

http://www.arisemetal.com

>>> 29/02/04

FRANTIC BLEEP hope to finish their album within the next couple of months. They've recorded the basic tracks and they hope to finish all the instrumental tracks soon. The production so far is great and the band is very enthusiastic about it. The vocals will take some more time to finish up, because they're working with a new singer, which has been working out great so far (more info to come...) Anyway, the album will definitely be worth waiting for...

>>> 22/02/04

First Confirmed bands for GROEZROCK 2004 (24/04/2004)
Beatsteaks / de Heideroosjes / The Promise / Champion / Stretch Arm Strong / Rise And Fall / Pulley / Ten Foot Pole / Madball / E-Town Concrete / Midtown / The Almighty Trigeer Happy / Strung Out / The Bronx / Chimaera / Liar / Mad Caddies / Belvedere / more TBA. More info on http://www.groezrock.be

>>> 16/02/04

BLACK LOTUS SOCIETY NEWS:

CHRIS CAFFERY has begun preproduction rehearsals for the recording of his debut CD. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra recently finished its 5th Anniversary tour in the United States. The band had sold over 400,000 tickets in 2003 making it one of Poll Star's top 15 grossing tours of the year in America! After a short rest, Chris got right back to work on the preparation for "Faces." Jeff Plate (Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) will be taking on the duties as drummer. Dave Z (Trans-Siberian Orchestra) will be playing the bass. February 9th the recording begins officially, leaving Chris and the boys locked up in the Astoria New York based studio until the end of April. Chris will be documenting the events in a daily studio report at his official web-site http://www.ChrisCaffery.com

The debut album of THRAWN will be called "Dispiritism", it will contain 11 tracks of mindblowing metal. The tracklist is (not in order): Dispirited Chambers, Patriots of Sin (aeturnum essentia), Dreamscape Domain, Transcendence Duology, Light Creates Shadows, Carpe Noctem, Behind the Lodge Door, Oath to Endure, Desensitizer, Form in Transition and Welcome Home. It is recorded now at the Black Lounge studio, where the demo "Light Creates Shadows" was also recorded. The album will hit the streets later on this year and will be a great surpise to the fans of extreme metal!

SATARIEL: there has been a slight change in the scheduele, so the recording of "Hydra" will start on 29'th of march, instead of 12th April as first planned. Hopefully there will be a web-diary with pictures from the recordings coming up at http://www.satariel.com stay tuned. Moreover, singer Pär invites all to his site containing artwork: http://www.pjillustrations.com. For bands and labels in need of high quality artwork to fair prices. Check it out for a glimpse of his works right away!

HORTUS ANIMAE started the songwriting process of the material for their next release which will be recorded within the end of 2004 and has the working title of “The Blow Of Furious Winds”. About the new work, some songs will be much intricate and complex, while others will have in simplicity their strength point. Moreover, the band is, at present, organizing several concerts in many cities of the Italian territory, that will take place from March and on.
http://www.hortusanimae.com

ADAMANTER has now a new keyboard player, Daniele Cacace, and is working on their second album. Some songs are already made and you can find out more on their website http://www.adamanter.net. The site has also some downloadable clips from the album and all their demo. Check it out!

NIGHTFALL has been voted the Best Greek Metal act for the year 2003 by the readers of the Greek Metal Hammer ! The band members comment: "Yes, we've just been informed about it and we can only say that it is a compliment to us and the band. Even though we are against competitions, contests, etc in music as art is too multidimensional to limit it in any voter turnout, we trully thank all those ones who believe in us and support Nightfall all these years. You all rule! Thank you very much indeed!".

http://www.black-lotus-recs.com

>>> 10/02/04

Recordings for BIOMECHANICAL's second album titled 'The Empires of the Worlds' are under way!! The first recordings started with the rhythm guitars on Friday 2nd January 2004. The album will include about 13 to 14 tracks and story wise will continue the same concept taken from Eight Moons. Musically The Empires will be a heavier album but will retain melodies in the songs and film music style orchestral writing will still be arranged within the tracks. The recordings will continue over the next few months and mp3 samples should be available around May 2004!!

>>> 06/02/04

Displeased Records will release INFINITED HATE's debut album "Revel in bloodshed" this spring.
Infinited Hate was created in August 2003 by Aad Kloosterwaard, drummer of Sinister and Houwitser. The easiest thing to complete the line-up was asking all other Sinister members for this sick and twisted death metal project. All members were already thinking for a longer time to mix old school death metal with new style US death metal, something that they cannot do with their own band. The band started writing songs and selected two for their promo CD "Primitive butchery". This piece of death metal was recorded in the AM studios (Gouda) in Holland. The band was really happy with the good reactions on this CD, which resulted in a deal with Displeased Records for two CDs. Displeased Records was able to contract Graal (Behemoth, Rotting Christ, Enslaved, Vader) for the artwork of the upcoming CD "Revel in bloodshed". For this full length Infinited Hate will go back to the AM studios to work again with Andre van de Ree. You can expect ten songs of sick and twisted death metal, check it out if you think you are heavy enough!

http://www.displeased.com

>>> 02/02/04

SOMNIAE STATUS' new vocalist Ivan Rave replaces Breeze Danieli, who has left the band due to personal commitments.
"Ivan is an amazing singer with a strong, warm voice arisen from several years of experience in the hard 'n heavy italian scene. We are confident that you will love him. It seems he has been part of the band for many years".

Somniae Status are currently working on new album with Rave, but you'll also hear him performing very soon: the band has just recoded a cover version of Queensryche's "I don't believe in love" with Rave. The track will be part of "A Tribute To The Glory Of '80s METAL" released through Steelheart Records in a few months time.

http://www.somniaestatus.com

>>> 29/12/03

Out now on Funtime Records: FLATCAT/FIVE DAYS OFF 'split' digipak cd. Long awaited and nothing less than fantastic. Two of Belgium's biggest independent punkrockbands have teamed up to deliver you this superb collection of singalong melodic punkrocksongs. All caught in a topnotch production of both Motormusic and Dé Studio. 8 songs in total and the first 2000 copies come in a beautiful digipak with great artwork!

Upcoming: OVERSIZED 'are you one of them' digipak cd, CAST-DOWN 'no title yet' cd, VICTIMS OF SOCIETY 'the gloves come off' CD, VOID SECTION 'no title yet' cdep. More info on http://www.funtimerecords.com

>>> 22/12/03

VISION DIVINE - new signing & new album

Scarlet Records is proud to announce that Vision Divine new album will be released in Italy by Scarlet! The band is currently dealing for European and American release, Japanese release will be done through King Records. The new album titled 'Stream Of Consciousness' will feature an important change in the line-up. Former singer Fabio Lione will be replaced by Michele Luppi, an amazing talented voice that fits perfectly into Vision Divine music. A new start, a new breath and something very unique for this third album, a 'concept-story' based on one song (60 minutes long) divided in 14 chapters linked together. A journey through the human innerself with one aim: discover the real meaning of life. Prepare for a masterpiece release in April 2004!

http://www.scarletrecords.it

>>> 22/12/03

During the days of October and November Pyorrhoea recorded in Hertz studio debut full lenght entitled "Desire for torment". Album includes 14 tracks of raw brutal death/grind... Some titles are "Slave", "Dead orgy scene", "Addicted to killing", "Anal arousal", "Excrements on your face", "Consume you"... Pyorrhoea contains muscians from Hate, Vesania, Devilyn and Amok. The band is searching for proper record label to release it... http://pyorrhoea.org

>>> 20/12/03

Visceral Bleeding entered the studio on the 10th of December and started to record the follow up to REMNANTS OF DEPRIVATION. All drums have been recorded and the rest will be finished after the holidays. The new album (as of yet untitled) will be faster, more brutal and even more violent than its predecessor. Keep an eye on http://www.visceralbleeding.com or http://www.retributerecords.com for more news and footage from the studio. To pre-order get in touch with Retribute Records.

>>> 18/12/03

NEW RELEASES ON BLACK LOTUS RECORDS:

>> ACHERON - Rebirth: metamorphosing into Godhood
The long awaited return of the USA Lords of Satanic Black/Death Metal!!!! Vincent Crowley and company have delivered the darkest and most ferocious album of their career! It is like ROSEMARY'S BABY transformed into music! Recorded at MARS RECORDING COMPOUND (MUSHROOMHEAD, EARTH CRISIS, ect). Featuring members of INCANTATION, WOLFEN SOCIETY and BURNING INSIDE. Limited edition of 1000 in slipcase!

>> THE DUSKFALL - Source
THE DUSKFALL is back!!! Yes, the rumors are true... Finally, the highly awaited second release of Swedish Thrashy , Melodic death-metallers is on it´s way! This masterpiece will send you in orbit for light years to come. Travelling back to the roots with vocals that could spellbound the dead, this perfection of melodies and aggression will leave you screaming for more... Recorded once again at the infamous Dug-Out studios (IN FLAMES, TESTAMENT, SOILWORK e.t.c.) !!! Limited edition of 1000 in slipcase!

>> ON THORNS I LAY - Egocentric
The band has evolved into an excellent hybrid of melancholy and exquisite metal melodies with innovative riffing and enchanting atmosphere! Produced by Fredrik Nordstrom at FREDMAN studio this is a must for all OPETH and KATATONIA fans!!! Limited edition of 1000 in slipcase!

>> SWAN CHRISTY - Julian
This is the fourth album of the crazy prog-artrists under the name SWAN CHRISTY. This time forget everything you know about them! This is inspired electronica , blended with a lot of different elements, incorporating various melodies and altogether sounding like a soundtrack of schizophrenic movie. No guitars, no real drums! This is for sure the most diverse and magical album of the SWANS to date!! Limited edition of 1000 in slipcase!

>> MORNING AFTER - Beneath the real
This is the new sensation from Greece! Dedicated to modern metal they are combining the atmosphere of HIM with the melodies of NICKELBACK , the intensity of new metal and the nostalgia of classical metal!! With top production, this is a band which will conquer the charts worldwide!!! Limited edition of 1000 in slipcase!

>> VELOCITY - Eleftheria (Freedom)
The veteran street punks in their third album! Heavier guitars and more intense rhythms! Mixing modern hardcore with traditional old school stuff, a punk attitude!!!

http://www.black-lotus-recs.com

>>> 17/12/03

CREST OF DARKNESS banned by censorship

Once again censorship hits Extreme Metal. One of the most important European manufacturing companies refused to print CREST OF DARKNESS new album "Evil Knows Evil" out in January with their new label My Kingdom Music, due to the lyrics and the artwork considered too blasphemous, satanic and absolutely anti-Christian. To their request of modifying the lyrics and the artwork, the label according with band desire, didn't accept any change. In this way and for the nth time the freedom of expression is repressed and one more time artists are banned for their ideas. The release date of the album has been now temporarily fixed to February 9th, 2004 and we proudly announce that no change will be made.

http://www.mykingdommusic.net

>>> 16/12/03

Christopher Lee will join symphonic metal band Rhapsody on their next CD

Mr. Christopher Lee - the grand seigneur of film and one of the most filmed actors in history will join the world famous symphonic metal band Rhapsody on their next CD. Mr. Lee is no stranger to music and recording studios as he is a classically trained opera singer himself. He will be providing a powerful narration on the forthcoming self produced CD of the Italian based group. Among other well known narrators and London actors, Lee will guide the listeners in the role of a king through a unique saga invented by RHAPSODY's founding members Luca Turilli and Alex Staropoli. As a special surprise Mr. Lee's daughter Christina Lee will also appear in the part of a warrior princess. Incidentally this will mark the first time father and daughter will work together. This portion of the production will be handled by award winning producer Joey DeMaio. Not only known for his record production work with the group MANOWAR but he has also produced numerous rock groups, and has the distinction of producing epic narrations with the late Orson Welles. Production is set for the third week of December in the London Sanctuary Townhouse Studios. "It is a dream come true. We couldn't believe it when our management informed us that our hero Mr. Lee agreed to be part of our new CD. We are extremely thankful and honored that this outstanding legend of film and theatre has chosen to work with us", says Luca Turilli. "We believe Mr. Lee will definitely bring our vision and dreams to reality", adds Alex Staropoli. "It will be an honor to shake his hand for the first time." This CD will contain 10 new songs and almost 80 minutes of music, featuring grand epic, fast metal tracks and sonic landscapes with stirring narrative and will be the debut of a new style of Heavy Metal music created by RHAPSODY known as Film Score Metal. After five critically acclaimed albums this new, yet untiteld release is being recorded in four different studios in Europe with appearances by more than a dozen international guest soloists. Supported by the entire Bohuslav Martinu Philharmonic Orchestra from the Czech Republic as well as a 50 piece choir this new CD will set the world of Symphonic Metal on fire. The tentative release date on Magic Circle Music /SPV/Steamhammer has been set for May 2004. Distribution of this album in the Benelux will be handled by Zomba Distribution.

>>> 16/12/03

Lion Music are proud to announce the signing of Sweden's legendary melodic hard rock band House of Shakira. The band is currently working on their new studio album which is to be released during the second half of 2004. This new album will be the band's 4th studio album since their debut album "Lint" which was released in 1997.

House of Shakira is:
Andreas Eklund - lead vocals
Anders Lundström - guitar/keyboard
Mats Hallstensson - guitar/vocals
Per Schelander - bass/vocals
Tony Andersson - drums .

HOUSE OF SHAKIRA's music doesn't remind of any comparable band. The band's motto is "Try every idea with an open mind", therefore every member of the band contributes with own ideas to make this music unique. HOUSE OF SHAKIRA is producing melodic rock of the very highest quality because they mixed hard rock with several music styles - the vocals soar, the melodies rise and the guitars bring it all together. All these components make HOUSE OF SHAKIRA an outstanding listening sensation. Due to the diversity of the songs and the music, HOUSE OF SHAKIRA is not a typical hard rock formation, they will find a higher and wider audience and fan community.

According to bass player Per Schelander, the band is very happy that they´ve found a company that shows a genuine interest in releasing the new material. "As the communication has been very good between the band and Lion Music, we are very shure that this parnership can take us one step furher in our career". The theme for this fourth album of House of Shakira is different kind of journeys. A lot of the lyrics have been written during journeys in the world, other is just about the travelling you do in your own inner archipelago.

http://www.spv.de

>>> 16/12/03

CRASH MUSIC INC is proud to announce the come-back of French kings of Death-metal: GURKKHAS. They are currently in the studio working on their new album, -TYRANNY-. This album promises to be more powerful and aggressive than their previous release. Visual design by Jacek Wisniewski (VADER). It is set to be released worldwide in early 2004.

Website: http://www.multimania.com/gurkkhas

>>> 16/12/03

Victory Records is excited to announce the signing of Hawthorne Heights! The Dayton, Ohio based band will be heading into Big Blue Meanie Studios to record with Sal Villanueva and Tim Gilles, the men behind Thursday's "Full Collapse" and Taking Back Sunday's "Tell All Your Friends." The album will hit the streets on March 23, 2004, and expect a nice big tour schedule very soon. Hawthorne Heights play melodic rock with the darker edge of metal guitar bands, their three guitar attack is not to be missed. The band formed two years ago in Dayton under the name A Day In The Life, and immediately began working on a record for indie label Confined Records. After several personnel changes and a name change, they began touring in earnest and writing nonstop. When label owner Tony Brummel heard their demos, he put the wheels in motion to sign the band and get them into the studio immediately.

For more information on Hawthorne Heights, visit http://www.victoryrecords.com/hawthorneheights.html and http://www.hawthorneheights.com for mp3s and more.

>>> 12/12/03

Works on „The Symbols” video (the opening track from upcoming InDread Cold’s debut album „Underaba”) have been completed. A few days ago Poles signed a two-album contract with British label BlackDoom Records. BlackDoom is a label owned by several musicians from My Dying Bride. “Underaba” will be released in the beginning of 2004. Almost 3,5 minutes of “The Symbols” video-clip is a result of long hours of hard work on location and weeks of montage. InDread Cold’s drummer – Damian Wolff, who did filming as well as the whole montage, technically produced the idea prepared by all band members. Video is filled with dark and gloomy atmosphere and, as the title suggests, is very symbolic too. On the official InDread Cold website, a 1,5 minute preview of the video is possible to download. Photos by photographer Joanna Nowicka taken during the filming can be found there as well. Worth to notice that the photos won third prize in a competition announced by well known/popular Polish internet photo-magazine http://www.fotopolis.pl/index.php?gora=1&lewa=5&archgal=1&nrarch=136 Currently musicians are focused on the second motion picture to another “Underaba” track. This time highly trance and reflective “No Dreams Undreamt” has been chosen. Filming, which was done in strongly postindustrial and abandoned areas (for example: in the ruins of old factory) has brought near 2 hours of raw material. At the moment the montage is being processed.

http://www.indreadcold.org

>>> 11/12/03

MORBID RECORDS WINTER NEWS (Update December 2004):
January 5th 2004 will be the day on which our sick Spaniards HAEMORRHAGE present their new DVD "Visions from the Morgue". This masterpiece (visually as well as in terms of sound quality !) offers you 3 videoclips, professional live recordings from the "With Full Force"- Festival 2002 performance, live shows in Holland and the Czech Republic dating back to the years 1996 through 1999. A booklet containing new gorestories from von "Dr. Obnoxius" & Co." written by Luisma will also be included. Unfortunately the sale to minors under 18 years has been prohibited after the conclusion of the legal examination process. Please note that we have to ask our customers for age verification, otherwise we are not entitled to deliver the product !

Another new band on Morbid Rec., we proudly present IMMORTAL RITES from Schwäbisch Gmünd / Germany, who play fascinating, groovy & unique blackend Death Metal ! The debut "Art Of Devolution" was produced at Alex Krull´s (ATROCITY) Mastersound Studio. Guest musicians are Alex Krull & Martin Schmidt from ATROCITY, as well as Liv Kristine ex-THEATRE OF TRAGEDY/LEAVES EYES. Release is scheduled for March 2004. The guys plan to appear on various summer festivals as the Summer Breeze or the Partisan.

Our Illinois Porn Gore heroes LIVIDITY have found a new guy to handle the low end frequencies ,CHRIS CHAMPBELL, and plan to record the successor to "Til Only The Sick Remain" release is planned for late 2004.

Czech Death Metal institution HYPNOS have decided to produce their third inferno under the supervision of Harris Johns again. Release can be expected late 2004. The band will then tour with Altar, as matters stand right now.

Please refer to http://www.morbidrecords.de for the latest news.

>>> 11/12/03

Trent Gardner of Magellan Prog Rock Band has produced Jack Foster Debut Album "The Evolution Of JazzRaptor" (to be released on Muse Wrapped Records), a project aims to be a destination for discerning adults who appreciate high-end music of broad variety.

Trent Gardner produces the album and wrote the music for 3 track: "Lucifer's Rat", "Everytime you Smile" and "Nirvana in the Notes", and play keys here.

According to Trent, "People will be surprised by Jack. It's 9 songs and nine different genres. People will love it…very high production value. We did it in pro tools HD and Robert Berry engineered it."

Robert Berry (Three, Asia, GTR) play bass, drums and guitars on this album, and there is also an appearance of Wayne Gardner (Guitars on Lucifer's Rat).

You could se more about Evolution of Jazzraptor at http://www.jazzraptor.com.

At the end http://www.magellaweb.com is finally on-line so list this site as the official one for Magellan.

>>> 09/12/03

Much to our regret Beyond The Sixth Seal has officially broken up.

"After nearly 5 years it's come to the point where we felt it better to end the band than go through even more lineup changes. The decision was mutual on all sides, and we will continue to work together on projects in the future... We want to thank everyone who's put up with us over the years and ever come out to support us."

The group will be playing a final show in 2004, in addition to recording all of their remaining material in conjunction with several covers. These final recordings will surface on several vinyl releases, though labels and other specifics have yet to be announced.

http://www.lifeforcerecords.com

>>> 05/12/03

After three years of existence into the underground scene and two albums released with the mighty OSMOSE PRODUCTIONS, the Mexican band known as RAVAGER will split up and disappear. The main causes of this decision are about personal differences inside the members of the band and serious musical problems. Antimo and Oscar will stay commanding the attack and creating another horde that will keep the essence of the already dead RAVAGER.

>>> 04/12/03

Red Stream, Inc. will release the upcomingNECROPHAGIA mini CD titled "Goblins Be Thine" on Friday February 13th, 2004. Iscariah was quoted as saying, "We are extremely glad to be working with Red Stream on this release they do great work and have always given Necrophagia a freshly dug grave (aka home). They are truly a dedicated and an elite company in our opinion". Fug also commented on the release, "Goblins Be Thine is a very dark and moody release, it's something to hold our undead legions over until we unearth the next full length, "Harvest Ritual" next Fall." The first 1,000 copies of "Goblins Be Thine" ordered directly from www.redstream.org will come with a signed Necrophagia anime poster. The title track and "Sadako's Curse" are both inspired by the Japanese film Ringu.

>>> 04/12/03

Helena Iren Michaelsen from Imperia has finished the recordings of the song 'The Lotuseaters' for the Dead Can Dance tribute double-cd, also called The Lotuseaters. The song is recorded and produced by Oscar Holleman (Within Temptation, After Forever etc…). Rene Merckelbach (Within Temptation) helped out on studio synths. The cd will be released throughout Black Lotus Records and also features acts such as The Gathering, Trail Of Tears, Ulver, Septic Flesh, Antimatter, Daniel Cavanagh and more…

The band has started the recordings of their full-length cd at Franky's Recording Kitchen, Holland. The band will record about 12 songs of Orchestral Opera Metal…

Helena's website will SOON be online. Check http://www.helena-michaelsen.com for info about Imperia & Angel…

To Elysium's 'Nightmare's Nest' will be released on February 21st. The band is currently in the final mixing stadium. 'Nightmare's Nest' will crush To Elysium's debut 'Dearest Vile' in every way possible: fatter sound, better vocals, heavier guitars and catchier songs…

The Wounded are mixing their third masterpiece 'Atlantic' at Franky's Recording Kitchen. Releasedate: February 21st.

Exploring Gothic in their own unique way & sound, The Wounded have managed to create their darkest, yet most catchy album up to date. A few songtitles: 'We Are Darker', 'Hollow World', 'Northern Lights', 'Day Of Joy' and 'Running On Empty'. The album will also contain a cover from Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' , of course performed in The Wounded's own unique way…

>>> 20/10/03

HateSphere have finished the recording and mixing of the songs for their mini album! It´s now on the way to the print factory. More info on this release + tour dates can be found on http://www.hateSphere.com

>>> 16/10/03

The next two Firebox Records releases will be:

>>> WOODS OF BELIAL - Deimos XIII
"Twisted horror/suicide metal, Skepticism meets Celtic Frost, kind of. A dark project from Finland". You might be interested to know the band features members from a couple of established and well-known Finnish metal acts. But hush, it's a secret...

>>> SWALLOW THE SUN - The Morning Never Came
"Doomy Finnish death metal with groove"

More info on http://www.firebox.fi

>>> 14/10/03

The debut album of CASKETGARDEN "This corroded soul of mine" is out now on Metal Age Productions ! The Hungarian promising death metal combo is influenced by At The Gates and Carcass and they created very fast, intense and aggressive songs that are very catchy and melodic at the same time. Comes with a massive sound from the Denever Studio (Hungary) and artwork by Miso "Czorrt" Sesták. More info on http://www.metalageproductions.com

>>> 10/10/03

Comatose Music is proud to announce the debut CD release of Severed Remains - A Display of Those Defiled. Unrelenting, savage death metal! Uniting elements of sickening sludge, technical blasting brutality, and even a little old school influence. Intricate guitar work and well crafted song structure makes this a very entertaining masterpiece of violence! Includes a cover of the Suffocation classic, "Liege of Inveracity". Fans of Severe Torture and Spawn of Possession take notice! Go to http://www.comatosemusic.com and order your copy today!

>>> 05/10/03

The Italian code666 is proud to announce the signing of Emotional Dark Gods Canaan. The new Masterpiece "The Unsaid Words" will be released in 2004 on code666. The band will soon enter the Studio for a long, experimental recording process. Official website: http://www.canaan.it

A new code666 Sublabel is born: AMARANTH RECORDINGS, born from an idea of A&R Davide Tiso (Ephel Duath's guitar player) and code666, responsable for Marketing and Production. The Label will work with genres usually not touched by code666, like post-rock, electronic, trip-hop, post-hardcore and dark wave. Contacts: http://www.amaranthrecordings.net

EPHEL DUATH are now in Fear Studio with Paso behind the mixer to work on the pre-production for the next Album still untitled, to be released on Elitist/Earache next year. Few stars, no refrain and a sigarette the band is working on the evolution of the "usual" song-structure, eliminating the repetition of the "refrain-bridge-chorus" scheme, to create an emotional flow of destructured music with a natural and organic vibe.

ENID finish to record new album. The German band will release their new Album titled "Grandwanderer" on code666 at the beginning of 2004. Check out http://www.enid.ht.st for additional info.

VOID OF SILENCE ready to enter the Studio. The Italian-Irish trio will enter in February a still unknown Studio to record their new Album titled "Human Anthitesis", the first featuring new Singer Alan Neamtheanga (Primordial). http://www.voidofsilence.com

More info on code666's website: http://www.code666.net

>>> 29/09/03

Exciter is currently recording its own best of... Expect some refreshed versions of the classics: "Stand Up And Fight" (Heavy Metal Maniac-1983), "Heavy Metal Maniac", "Rising Of The Dead", "Blackwitch", "Violence and Force" (Violence And Force-1984), "Pounding Metal", "Long Live The Loud" (Long Live The Loud-1985), "Victims Of Sacrifice", "I Am The Beast", "Rain Of Terror" (Kill After Kill-1992), "The Dark Command" (The Dark Command-1997), "Aggressor", "Ritual Death", "Rule With An Iron Fist" (Blood Of Tyrants-2000), "Brutal Warning". John Ricci will also play the bass on the album. The release is scheduled for the beginning of 2004. More info on http://www.osmoseproductions.com

>>> 27/09/03

Primitive Recordings has signed a deal with Crash Music, Inc. for worldwide distribution of their releases! This deal will include distribution in the following countries: the United States, Germany, Austria, Switzerland,France, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Greece, United Kingdom and The Netherlands. The first bands to benefit from this will be Black Mass, Head Trauma,Severed Head and Mortician's Final Bloodbath. MORTICIAN RECORDS will also be working with Crash for their next releases including their upcoming DVD and live CD.

More info on http://www.crashmusicinc.com

>>> 26/09/03

Here comes some news from Lion Music about new signings...

>>> Hubi Meisel - EmOcean

Hubi's progressive concept masterpiece, which features: Vivien Lalu (Shadrane, Paris) - keys, Marcel Coenen (Ex-Lemur Voice, Sun Caged) - guitars, Daniel Flores (Mind's Eye) - drums; will be available through Lion Music in certain territories in a strictly limited edition collectors item digipak with 2 exclusive bonus tracks: "Tears of an Enchanted Sea" and "Crystal Moon" The exact availability date will soon be announced.

>>> Alex Masi - In the Name of Mozart

Alex will follow up his successful "In the Name of Bach" (2000) with his own interpretations of Mozart's amazing and timeless music. Expect a release early 2004. Alex has also planned a third album in this series.

>>> Orion Riders - A New Dawn
Lion Music is proud to present you Orion Riders, a symphonic power metal band from Italy: their debut album is to be released in January 2004. The band was formed in 1997 and have recorded their impressive debut album at Riccardo Samperi's TRP studios (Catania - Italy). The band consists of: Joe Lombardo - vocals, Antonello Condorelli - guitar, Riccardo Failla - guitar, Carmelo Siracusa - bass, Tony Zappa - drums and keyboards

More info on http://www.lionmusic.com

>>> 25/09/03

The German label Voice Of Life has a new website online. You will find more info, a new store with the best prices around (we now accept PayPal) and many more cool things. Follow the link http://www.voiceoflife.de and check it out...

Italy’s BLEED IN VEIN have announced the title for their upcoming debut full length. “ONE DAY LEFT” will be released next year through Voice Of Life Records. Expect some killer, melodic Death Metal from this Italian Sextet. They also have a new website online at http://www.bleedinvain.com

>>> 21/09/03

The Prog Metallers Heaven's Cry have a new interactive website. Take a look at http://www.heavenscry.com

>>> 18/09/03

NEWS FROM ADIPOCERE (http://www.adipocere.fr)

* The third album of CRYSTALIUM vwill be out in early october. Its name : « Diktat Omega » !

* FORGOTTEN TOMB will be back at the Tommy Tagtgren's Abyss Studio - Sweden in order to record before the end of the year their third opus.

* The recording of the second album of LEIDEN is now finished. "Empty" will be out the 9th of december. With an intense studio work and a big work for thef mastering, this record will definitively have the sound it derserves. You'll find 11 songs ("Das Wort vom Zur Tiefe Gehn", "Spirale", "Cry", "Le Possédé"...) and a multimedia plage containing 2 live video and some photos....

* FURIA has some surprises for you... There's a lot of concerts everywhere in France, they has just shot a video under the direction of their keyboard player Medhi, but the band is also preparing a 3 Cd box for the end of the year. This box will contain the remastered version of their first opus "A La Quête Du Passé", the second album and a DVD of a full concert filmed by 8 cameras. You will find also inside some stickers and a 200 pages book (sorry, it will be only in french) with the whole story of the band's concept.

* NEHËMAH has finished the recording of their thrird album "Requiem Tenebrae" !! Here the track listing of this one hour long album : "The great old ones", "The elder Gods", "In the mist of orion's sword", "Conciousness in evil", "Taken away by the torn blackshroud" et "Through the dark nebula" pour près d'1 heure de musique. Le groupe, toujours sous la direction de Ludo Tournier, a utilisé un nouveau studio pour grossir leur son et ira masteriser le tout à l'Autre Studio !! Sortie prévue pas avant fin janvier !!

* BENIGHTED has recorded during the summer its third opus titled "Insane Cephalic Production". The recording took place in Germany with producer-engineer Christian Kholemannsleiner (Agathodaimon, Ad Inferna…) who has recorded also the last album of Destinity. The release is planned for the end of 2003... The band has a new bass player : Remi. Liem has taken the second guitar...

* DESTINITY, is writting song their next album wwhich will be record at the FURIA's personal studio in january. The band is also preparing a spring tour with italian band GRAVEWORM.

* ELLIPSIS is writting material for their second album which should be titled "From Beyond Thematics".

* MALLEUS MALEFICARUM and LATRODECTUS are also preparing their next opus..

>>> 18/09/03

Swedish HEARSE maniacs recently finished the recordings for their upcoming 2nd album titled ARMAGEDDON MON AMOUR. The band recorded 13 songs of which 10 will end up on the final album and the remaining songs will be used as bonus-material. According to spokesman and drummer Max Thornell we can expect a heavier, rougher, punkier and filthier album... "But don't worry! No major changes! As usual there will be a lot of heavy riffing and also a bunch of guitarlicks & tricks and ofcourse another round of ripping solos from guitar maestro Mattias Ljung. There is also vocalist John Liiva's characteristic voice, angrier than ever ending up coughing blood all over the studio floor."

Check the band's official website : http://medlem.spray.se/hearse

>>> 17/09/03

DRUMMER BOB DELMINI PARTS WITH ZANDELLE: Here is the official statment of George Tsalikis: It saddens us to announce that our good friend and drummer Bob Delmini has parted ways with the band. Bobby was a very important part of the Zandelle family and helped push the band into the direction we have gone, taking us leaps and bounds from the first two independent CDs to Twilight on Humanity. Bobby will be missed and we wish him the best for all his future endeavors. The rest of ZANDELLE however are striving forth with the writing for the upcoming 2nd internationally released album. Most of the songs have been written and only a few more remain before they will be ready to hit the recording studio. The band is however taking its time to ensure that the quality of the songs will be unsurpassed. The last thing they want to do is rush to get everything done at the expense of the quality. But don't worry, it will definitely be worth the wait. The Zandelle members are currently working with an amazing drummer for the next album but it has yet to be decided whether he will remain on as a permanent member or if he will just be the session drummer for the album (and perhaps a show or two). Also, former guitarist Joe Hartoularos (pre Twilight on Humanity era) has officially rejoined the band as bassist and will be featured on the next album as well. His incredible abilities on the bass will also help bring this album up to a higher level. The songs themselves, according to the band, are even more involved and musically dynamic than those on the previous release with a much more diverse subject matter. The members of Zandelle believe this album will definitely surpass it´s predecessor.

"Hot" new guitars for Burning Point: The Finnish band Burning Point has signed an endorsement deal with the Amfisound guitar factory, which is said to focus on the metal scene even more in the future. The guitarists Pete Ahonen and Jukka Kyrö as well as bass player Jöpe Kansanoja will receive their custom models especially made to meet their requirements. The progress in manufacturing these fine instruments can soon be found on the Amfisound internet site at http://www.amfisound.com. In the meantime, Burning Point are writing new songs for the follow-up to their 2003 "Feeding The Flames" album. Sources close to the band tell that the songs are even faster and heavier than on the "Feeding..." CD!

>>> 17/09/03

New releases on Limb Music Products include:

* CRYONIC TEMPLE: Blood Guts & Glory (Melodic Power Speed Metal)

* GOTHIC KNIGHTS: Up From The Ashes (Melodic US Power Metal)

* REVOLTONS: Night Visions (Melodic Progressive Power Metal)

More info and downloads on http://www.limb-music.de

>>> 16/09/03

Greg Rapaport signs regional distribution deal with NationJam LLC for his most recent release "Wyrd". CD's will be available at all Trans World Entertainment stores (FYE, Coconuts, Saturday Matinee, Strawberries) in NY metro area. You may also purchase his disk online at CD Baby (http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/gregrapaport) and Guitar Nine Records (http://www.guitar9.com/wyrd.html.)

Rapaport's new CD, "Azrael Block", is slated for an end of summer/early fall release. Track Listing: 1. Azrael Block, 2. Sever, 3. Tech Support, 4. Interlude - A, 5. Skitzophraniac, 6. Uncle Knucklez, 7. Flatline, 8. Interlude - B, 9. Deceiving The Industry, 10. Difunckt, 11. Dinner and Dancing, 12. No Solace

"Taking a darker path Greg explores more convoluted themes and the more unorthodox joining of musical ideas. His second true effort is consistently inconsistent in methodology and has proven to be a challenge to work on. Groove, technique and feel is the triangle that forms the common denominator in this new release."

**New site launched! (http://www.gregrapaport.com) feel free to have a look and listen. Check out the downloads section for some free stuff!**

>>> 16/09/03

Due to pressure from German government ratings groups, Relapse Records German distribution partner SPV has been forced to withdraw EXHUMED's new record, Anatomy Is Destiny from distribution on the brink of its release and on the eve of the band's European headlining tour.

Ratings groups deemed the band photos inside Anatomy Is Destiny -- EXHUMED's signature 'dead shots' taken by acclaimed photographer Alex Solca -- far too realistic and gruesome for mass consumption.

EXHUMED vocalist / guitarist Matt Harvey comments; "Censorshit...here we go again. Well, censorship is nothing new to EXHUMED, especially in Germany. It never fails that someone there is hell-bent on filtering what people can see and hear. Ultimately, despite every effort on the part of both EXHUMED and Relapse to release Anatomy Is Destiny the way it was intended to be released, outside pressure from government ratings groups has blocked our record from being distributed in it's current form."

>>> 15/09/03

Karmageddon Media proudly announce the exclusive signing of PROJECT: FAILING FLESH for the European territories. Project: Failing Flesh consists of Timothy Gutierrez (instruments), former VOIVOD-vocalist Eric Forrest and Kevin 131 (instruments). The album "A Beautiful Sickness" was recorded and mixed at Assembly Line Studios in Vienna Virginia (USA) under supervision of producer Kevin 131. The release for "A Beautiful Sickness" is scheduled for December 1st on Karmageddon Media.

For more information and soundclips of Project: Failing Flesh check the band's official website: http://www.projectfailingflesh.com

>>> 12/09/03

Gothenburg-based Death/Thrashers WITHIN Y just finished the recordings for their upcoming debut album titled EXTENDED MENTAL DIMENSIONS. The album was recorded and mixed during the month August and early September at Meta4Music Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden. Artwork is currently being created by art-wizard Niklas Sundin at Cabin Fever Media. The release for Extended Mental Dimensions is scheduled for January 19th, 2004 on Karmageddon Media. Check the band's website [tHe MUsic] and download their Feeble and Weak-demo that got them signed to Karmageddon Media.

Official website : http://www.withiny.tk

>>> 11/09/03

OUT NOW: MOURNING BELOVETH (Ireland) / LUNAR GATE (Ireland) split 7" picture disc on heavy vinyl w/ insert (Ltd to 500). Featuring especially recorded track by Mourning Beloveth & a re-recording of a demo track by Lunar Gate...

SENTINEL RECORDS will shortly release the vinyl edition of the new album ' Lights Out ' by ANTIMATTER. This is latest release from ex-Anathema bassist Duncan Patterson.

More info on http://www.sentinelireland.com

>>> 08/09/03

One of the hardest touring bands on Victory, Count the Stars ground to a halt Saturday morning after a bad accident left their van and trailer totaled and singer/guitarist Chris Kasarjian in the hospital with broken ribs, a collapsed lung and stitches. After their driver lost control of the van, the trailer ripped off its hitch and flew twenty feet into the air, hitting a tree and coming apart, scattering the band's merch and equipment. The van flipped several times, causing Kasarjian's injuries but only bruises and minor cuts on the rest of the band and crew. The band will be canceling their appearances on The Juliana Theory tour through at least September 20th, the dates following are contingent on Chris's recovery, so check at http://www.victoryrecords.com/tours.html

Since the release of their debut, "Never Be Taken Alive," Count the Stars have enjoyed a deluge of critical praise from the likes of RollingStone.com, Boston Phoenix, LA Weekly, Ride BMX, Outburn and Amp Magazine to name a few. Their first radio single, "Taking It All Back" is receiving spins at commercial alternative stations across the U.S., while the video has been spinning at MTV2 and Fuse TV. Visit http://www.victoryrecords.com or http://www.counthestars.com to learn more about Count the Stars.

>>> 08/09/03

The upcoming Torture Killer album got refused to be printed at the cd-factory !!! Official reason was that the artwork and the lyrical content of the album "For Maggots to Devour" were too shocking. Fortunately their label (Karmageddon Media) already found a new cd-factory, so the release will not be delayed any longer than necessary...

For more info & lyrics check the band's official website : http://www.torture-killer.cjb.net

>>> 06/09/03

NEWS FROM LIFEFORCE RECORDS...

>>> The release of the debut album of Florida's finest new metal sensation TRIVIUM is coming closer and closer.

>>> Lifeforce Records are proud to announce our two latest signings, CIPHER-SYSTEM and BY NIGHT. Both bands are from Sweden. The first release on Lifeforce will be a split CD with both acts in spring 2004 as an introduction followed by there debut albums later the next year.

>>> CIPHER SYSTEM is a six member progressive metal machine from Sweden.
They have played together for about 6 years, but the current line-up have only been stabile for about one year when the last recruited member joined. The music is a fresh mix between melodic and progressive metal band as: Soilwork, Children of Bodom and Evergrey. Eyecon (Demo) 2002 has only got great reviews and now it’s time for the rest of the world to find out if they could handle it.

>>> BY NIGHT is best to describe as heavy, fast hardcore-influenced extreme metal.

>>> HEROD entering the studio today to record their Lifeforce debut "For Whom The Gods Would Destroy" the whole month of september. The band just found a new permanent singer. The album will hit the streets in the U.S. on january 25th, 2003 and on a later currently not confirmed date in Europe.

>>> DESTINY almost finished the recording with Tue Madsen at Antfarm Studios in Denmark (Mnemic, Born From Pain) for their Lifeforce debut to be released in March 2004. Watch out for a first MP3 coming the next week.

More info on http://www.lifeforcerecords.com

>>> 04/09/03

Swedish melodic power metallers MORIFADE recently finished the recordings for their new album.

The album is titled DOMI<>NATION and the complete tracklisting is as follows:

* Parallels
* A Silent Revolution
* The Second Coming
* Words I Never Speak
* Clarity (Fragments of a Dream)
* Panopticon
* The Rising
* Erase
* Memorys End
* Lost Within A Shade (video track)

- Domi<>Nation was recorded and mixed in Los Angered Recording Studio with Andy La Rocque.

- The vocals and choirs were recorded in Monogram Recording Studio.

- Release of the new album is scheduled for November 3rd on Karmageddon Media.

Check the band's website [Fanzone] and listen to a soundclip of the brandnew song Words I Never Speak.

Official website : http://www.morifade.com

>>> 04/09/03

THE DAY EVERYTHING BECAME NOTHING 'Le Mort' CD OUT NOW!!

Australia’s newest exponents of grindcore devastation are The Day Everything Became Nothing, and their pulverizing debut, ‘Le Mort’ is now upon us!

Deadly precise drumming, unspeakably downtuned guitar decimation and earth shaking bass fuse into monolithic bulldozing grooves which leave cities flattened rubble in their wake, while the ruptured and twisted sewer lines burp out festering excrement which still sounds far more pleasant than the abhorrent pitch-shifted disgorgements contained on ‘Le Mort’. Featuring members of Fuck…I’m Dead and Blood Duster, they punch out ten tracks of killer grind akin to Rompeprop and Cock And Ball Torture, that is as catchy as it is annihilating.

Kiss your loved ones goodbye and make sure you’re wearing clean underwear, because you will not survive the sonic crush of The Day Everything Became Nothing! Comes with 'Le Mort' poster!!! They Day Everything Became Nothing's brand new website has been launched! Check it out at http://www.geocities.com/tdebn

http://www.noescaperecords.com

>>> 02/09/03

Sweden's Visceral Bleeding will be releasing their second cd through Retribute. After the overwhelming response to their first release on Retribute 'Remnants Of Deprivation' VB are primed to assault your senses with another supreme cut of death/grind brutality. Expect an early 2004 release featuring songs like "Fed to the Dogs", "Merely Parts Remain" , "Fire Took His Face" and "Clenched Fist Obedience".

More info on http://www.retributerecords.com

>>> 02/09/03

THRAWN from Sweden has signed a deal with the greece label BLACK LOTUS RECORDS its a 3 records deal and the band will enter the studio sometimes in feb.2004, to record their first album. They'll deliver a thrash bomb, it will hit you hard!

>>> 02/09/03

HAMMERHEART statement: "After months of thinking, talking, evaluating plans and contracts HAMMERHEART RECORDS have decided to call it a day !!! But we are not simply leaving all this behind... how could we ever ??? Both owners Peter van Ool and Guido Heijnens have decided to re-start a new label under the name KARMAGEDDON MEDIA !!! Of course with the same quality and impact as Hammerheart Records used to have."

Why ? We simply got a bit tired of some of the things happening in the music-industry, especially the attitude of some people was too much for us, we had to change things drastically or stopping was the only option. We ran into problems and what I would call "anti-social" behaviour too often and frequently. This new label is done in very close co-operation with PLASTIC HEAD DISTRIBUTION, who will exclusively distribute KARMAGEDDON MEDIA starting October 1st 2003. We feel secure and positive that under the wings of our big independent brothers working at PLASTIC HEAD DISTRIBUTION we get more chances to develop and grow in a steady and reliable way. The artists and the catalogue of HAMMERHEART RECORDS are transferred to KARMAGEDDON MEDIA and we will soon inform everyone on our release-schedule. Be prepared for new killer albums by DISMEMBER, CRUACHAN, MORIFADE, TORTURE KILLER etc.

- CONTROL DENIED -

Then a final topic to speak about... CONTROL DENIED...

Unfortunately I have never experienced anything as bizarre and non-productive as this! HAMMERHEART RECORDS has been trying to even speak with the Schuldiner family ever since Chuck passed away, but we got treated with absolutely no respect and basically got ignored. That album could have been released over a year ago, but the Schuldiner family wishes not to co-operate on anything concerning this release. And obviously all the fans are suffering from this just as much as we do.

That's all I want to say about this, believe it or not... no gossip, no rumours, just the truth.

>>> 02/09/03

On October 22nd, Lion Music will release one of it's best albums ever to date:
Sun Caged's self titled debut album, mixed by Ajren Lucassen (Star One/Ayreon).
Sun Caged are true masters of progressive metal and have been around long enough to develop a highly original sound and great compositional and technichal skills.

On November 11 the following will be released:
Blackmore's Castle - A Tribute to Deep Purple and Rainbow:
Mister Kite - Bloodsucker / T ranscendence – Perfect Strangers / Arabesque – Stargazer / Lars Eric Mattsson – Self Portrait / Reign of Terror – Sixteenth Century Greensleeves / Iron Mask – Gates of Babylon / Headline – Battle Rages On / Condition Red – Black Night / Torben Enevolden – Space Truckin’ / Eric Zimmermann – Man on the Silver Mountain / Winterlong – Highway Star / Jason Richardson – Lazy / Condition Red – Still I’m Sad

ANAND - Joy 4-Ever
Anand Mahangoe is another killer guitar player currently living in Holland. Anand's high energy album also features Mike Terrana and Derek Sherinian. This is an all instrumental release.

DOGPOUND - THE HELLBUM
Killer melodic hard rock from Sweden mixing influences from the 80-ies with more some modern stuff. Dogpound is one of the best band in this genre to surface. Killer vocals and great songs is the backbone of Dogpound.

More info on http://www.lionmusic.com

>>> 01/09/03

The debut album of Chilean doomsters MAR DE GRISES is scheduled for a November 2003 release!

The album's title is given as "The Tatterdemalion Express" and the tracklist as:

1 El Otro...
2 To See Saturn Fall
3 Storm
4 Recklessness
5 For Just An Eternity
6 Self Portrait no.1
7 Be Welcome Oh Hideous Hell
8 Onirica


More info on http://www.firebox.fi

>>> 25/08/03

ILLOGICIST: italian band assault: great technical melodic Death-metal!!!!!
Death metal friends, Illogicist compile a violent sonic combination of technical ability, rhythmic asymetry, melodic sickness and lyrical frustration to reflect a dynamic and emotional vision of suffering and introspection. A New material is composed and after a long period of reharsal and some live gigs, Illogicist enters again in One Voice Studio at the end of October 2002, for the recording of a new mcd titled "Dissonant Perspectives", more violent and progressive then their first one. CRASH MUSIC is proud to release the next new album will be out at the beginning of the new year.
More info: http://www.illogicist.com

HYPNOSIS will release the next allbum on CRASH MUSIC INC.
The French band have recently signed three albums agreements with Crash Music inc.
Their new MCD, "Evilution" have get many great write-up from french publications such as HARDNHEAVY, METALLIAN.

They can be describe as cyber death-metal with futuristic and modern elements. They are a perfect master of their art.
They played with french bands like Gojira, Hamlet, Watcha, Pleymo, Oversoul, DAB.
The new release will countain the songs from the MCD "Evilution" with news titles: this next Release is scheduled early 2004.

HYPNOSIS should begin the studio session at the end of this year, with drummer and a new bassist.
Check http://www.hypnosismetal.fr.st for more info about the band.

http://www.crashmusiceurope.com

>>> 22/08/03

PRESS RELEASE

Tim Owen new ICED EARTH-singer

As already reported, ex-Judas Priest singer Tim Owens has sung the new ICED EARTH-album „The Glorious Burden”, after recently the singer for many years Matthew Barlow had left the band.
Now Tim Owen is, as ICED EARTH-Mastermind Jon Schaffer just announced, the official singer of the band. Here the statement of Schaffer:

“Well everyone, it is official. Tim Owens is the new frontman and lead vocalist of Iced Earth and I couldn't be happier!
There is no doubt that fate has played a big part in our lives in these last few months and I truly believe that this is the way it was meant to be. Everything happens for a reason!!
Tim did an outstanding job on this record. In 5 very relaxed days he nailed the parts, and I mean NAILED them, and I don't think I've ever laughed as much and had as much fun in the studio before. He is definitely bringing new life into the band and the future looks very bright for us as a team. (…)
One of the greatest things about all of it is that The Glorious Burden is a new beginning. I'm very, very excited to see what Tim and I can do together as a writing team. (…)
Look for Iced Earth on our "Glorious World Tour" starting in early 2004. I'm so psyched I can hardly wait!!” (…)

The new album "The Glorious Burden" appears on October 27, the Single "The Reckoning" will be available starting October 6. There is more information under http://www.spv.de – there you also have the possibility to listen to the three new songs "The Reckoning", "Hollow One" and "Red baron / Blue Max".

>>> 18/08/03

>>> Unique Leader is very proud to announce that Spawn Of Possession has been added to the bill of the No Mercy 2004 package. Other bands included on this package are Cannibal Corpse, Hypocrisy, Kataklysm, Carpathian Forest, Vomitory and Exhumed. Dates will become available soon.

>>> Pyaemia is doing one off shows and festival appearances to prepare themselves for Bloodletting IV. Recently the band returned from doing a successfull show in Czech Republic on the Brutal Assault festival and next weekend the band will head out to Switzerland to play on the Mountains Of Death festival. Other bands that are included on this years Bloodletting North America tour in November are: Gorgasm, Severed Savior and Spawn Of Possession.

>>> The (originally in September planned) 6 week European tour with Hate Eternal and Dying Fetus is postponed and will now commence in January 2004. Dates will become available anytime soon, often check back on our website for new dates. The earlier planned US tour with Suffocation has unfortunately been canceled. In the meantime "Reduced To Ashes" is doing very well.

More info on http://www.uniqueleader-europe.com

>>> 15/08/03

Prepare for 6th October 2003 !!! Prepare for the first album of EOSTENEM " I scream you suffer they die ", released on Blackend records.
Born in 2000, two demos and a deal signed with Blackend records, Eostenem is now more than ready to explode."I scream You suffer They die", first album of this french one-man-band : 10 Tracks of intriguing Dark metal captured in Atomic Art studio and transcended by the powerful drumming of Dirk Verbeuren (Scarve), appearing here as session drummer... 45 minutes of haunting melodies and sombre violence in which english and french words melt in an infinite maelström...
MP3s available on http://www.eostenem.com

>>> 14/08/03

Cold Blood Industries have signed Imperia, featuring ex-Trail of Tears vocalist Helena Iren Michaelsen.

Imperia also features God Dethroned-drummer Arien. The complete line up will be revealed VERY soon! Imperia have already got 80 minutes of songmaterial and it will only be a short matter of time before the band can enter the stage! Stay tuned for more Imperia news….

From now on Cold Blood Industries will release all atmospheric acts throughout their new sublabel Ebony Tears.
Ebony Tears will be your gateway to the best atmospheric and gothic metal from now on. Starting out on September 20th with Greyswan's debut 'Thought Tormented Minds' the label will continuously release high quality atmospheric and gothic metalbands such as Imperia (featuring Helena Iren Michaelsen), The Wounded, To Elysium, Shadows Dance and more…

Dead Head have re-united with former singer / bassplayer Tom van Dijk. Their fourth album 'Haatland' will be recorded in October. Newly recorded demotrack 'DESIRE' available for download HERE

The Monolith Deathcult will play a second European Tour in november, together with The Crown (SWEDEN) and Darkest Hour (USA). Stay tuned for confirmed dates & places…

More info on http://www.coldbloodindustries.com

>>> 13/08/03

DARKTHRONE JOIN SATYRICON ON STAGE IN OCTOBER!
To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Moonfog - a safe haven for supreme black metal since 1993 - Satyricon will headline Oslo Rockefeller on 2nd October, returning to their hometown stage after a year. New signing, Disiplin (and another Moonfog band to be disclosed shortly) will support whilst Darkthrone´s Nocturno Culto will join the headliners and perform Darkthrone classics last heard on a live stage in 1996! DJ Fenriz will be spilling out the harshest black metal sounds throughout the evening. A historical event not to be missed. Tickets are for sale now from the usual outlets.

>>> 09/08/03

>>> Best news to tell you is that we’re very excited to welcome U.K.'s STEEL RULES DIE to Reflections! Steel Rules Die formed in the winter of 2001 following the demise of Anthem Of The Century (which other half brought us Sworn In). SRD write and play the melodic, driving, passionate sounds that every punk and hardcore kid loves. Getting their musical influences from bands like Hot Water Music, Lifetime, Small Brown Bike or Jawbreaker but these guys are able to put in just that extra bit of ‘British flavour’. They have been quite fortunate to open up for AFI a couple of dates earlier this Spring. And the band will be supporting Stretch Arm Strong on their UK tour next September. Go check out their debut record “Nostalgia For Beginners" (In At The Deep End records) we carry in our online store along with their JUST released split CD w/ Winter In June. Check and their website http://www.steelrulesdie.com

>>> NO TURNING BACK / THE DEAL– 6 song split MCD. Slowly but surely we’re getting the artwork together for this much anticipated release with two of the hardest European hardcore bands around. As usual, we want our releases to look outstanding and that’s what made the wait longer. However, trust us it’ll be worth it! The record will be released as a 4 song split 7" by Fryslân hardcore label Not Just Words records.

>>> KILLTRAITORS are recording in September for new 7”. With last months announcement of releasing Killtraitors debut material, the band has booked studio-time and will record first week of September for a brandnew 7” to be released October 27. In the meantime, order their demo at our online-store or visit their website at http://www.killtraitors.net

>>> GIVE UP THE GHOST NEWS
Give Up The Ghost is getting ready to tour the world again, starting in 6 weeks and coming to Europe late November-December. They will be releasing their brandnew album “We’re down ‘till we’re underground” on Equal Vision September 23. We’re finally gonna have 'Year One' pressed on vinyl! It’ll be a gatefold LP and (ofcourse, cause we love it..) coloured vinyl. The release-date will be announced soon, also when pre-orders will be taken. In the meantime, if you haven’t put your hands on it yet… Go get their brandnew “Love American” CDep and while you’re ordering from our online store anyway, treat yourself to a Year One t-shirt.

>>> ARE YOU WIRED?
With their debut MCD being released just a few weeks ago, we can proudy say that the response and reviews on RAZOR CRUSADE's debut album are overwhelming. It seems that many were impressed by beautiful artwork and the different twist they’re giving modern day’s hardcore. This is what FlexYourHead / Canada wrote about the album: "Between mid-tempo riff-rock a la Quicksand ("There Is No Us") and rockin' hardcore with Rocket from the Crypt guitar foolery ("Fountainhead"), these are just two of the many tricks this band can pull out of their amps and bass drums. Thankfully, Razor Crusade steer clear of the metalcore stuff — they could have easily slipped into faux-metal foolishness — and stick to riff-based hardcore that is memorable and fun." If you didn’t get it already from your local store, go ask ‘m to order it, or get it directly from our online store or at one of the 20 upcoming gigs, the band is playing in September. Check out their tourdates or visit the bands official website http://www.razorcrusade.com

>>> 06/08/03

News from the Mercenary camp:

Due to personal as well as musical differences, Mercenary has chosen to part ways with leadguitarist Signar Petersen. New shredder on the block will be the only 19-year old toddler Martin Buus Pedersen. None of the upcoming gigs will be affected by this change. Whether Martin will become a permanent member of Mercenary, time will tell.

>>> 06/08/03

The Finnish melodic deathdoom metallers Swallow the Sun have started the recordings of their debut album at the end of July in Sam's Workshop -studio with Sami Kokko. The as-of-yet untitled album will be released in November 2003 by Firebox Records. Band website at http://swallowthesun.cjb.net will be updated soon with a studio diary and some pictures from the recordings. More info on http://www.firebox.fi

>>> 05/08/03

News from Voice Of Life...

>>> DARK SUNS have announced the title for their upcoming, second full length; “EXISTENCE” will see the light of day in March 2004 through Voice Of Life Records. The album will be a concept work containing about 70 minutes of beautiful and dark Metal.

>>> MY SIXTH SHADOW’s debut "10 Steps 2 Your Heart" is out now and you can get your copy nearly everywhere in Europe. A list of Distribution partners in every country can be found in the links section at http://www.voiceoflife.de. You can pre-listen to one track at MP3.com (http://artists.mp3s.com/artists/228/my_sixth_shadow.html)

>>> 05/08/03

John O Fathaigh leaves Cruachan again...
"Yes John has parted ways with us yet again and we wholeheartedly apologise to each and everyone of our fans for this ridiculous situation. His reasons for leaving are again "personal" and we are very unhappy that he wasted our time by coming back in the firstplace. We will find a replacement and we will continue to tour with a guest musician. What does not kill us only makes us stronger!"

Keith Fay on behalf of Cruachan.

>>> 04/08/03

Ron Vento (Aurora Borealis) has just opened a NEW Professional Recording facility in Maryland comprising of a 1500 sq ft industrial building.
This studio specializes in death and black metal. NIGHTSKY Studios offers 124 tracks of all digital fully automated PRO TOOLS recording, And boasts 12 foot tracking ceilings as well as 2 isolation booths and amplifier room all on floating floors. Please visit http://www.nightskystudios.org for more information. Or Email AURORA4DTH@aol.com