January 2011

Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival 2011:



Main Stage:

DISTURBED
GODSMACK
MEGADETH

[Rotating Opening Slot On Main Stage:]

MACHINE HEAD
IN FLAMES
TRIVIUM

Jägermeister Stage:

UNEARTH
KINGDOM OF SORROW
RED FANG
[Jägermeister opener]

Extreme Stage:

SUICIDE SILENCE
ALL SHALL PERISH
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH

Tour Dates:

Jul. 09 - San Manuel Amphitheater - San Bernardino, CA 
Jul. 10 - Shoreline Amphitheatre - Mountain View, CA
Jul. 12 - White River Amphitheatre - Auburn, WA
Jul. 13 - Idaho Center Amphitheater - Nampa, ID 
Jul. 15 - Desert Sky Pavilion - Phoenix, AZ
Jul. 16 - Hard Rock Casino Albuquerque Presents The Pavilion - Albuquerque, NM
Jul. 17 - Comfort Dental Amphitheater - Englewood, CO
Jul. 19 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater - Maryland Heights, MO
Jul. 20 - Riverbend Music Center - Cincinnati, OH
Jul. 22 - Comcast Center - Mansfield, MA 
Jul. 23 - Parc Jean-Drapeau - (Heavy MTL) - Montreal, QC
Jul. 24 - Comcast Theater - Hartford, CT
Jul. 27 - PNC Bank Arts Center - Holmdel, NJ
Jul. 29 - First Niagara Pavilion - Burgettstown, PA 
Jul. 30 - Jiffy Lube Live - Bristow, VA
Jul. 31 - Susquehanna Bank Center - Camden, NJ
Aug. 02 - Virginia Beach Amphitheater - Virginia Beach, VA
Aug. 03 - Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek - Raleigh, NC
Aug. 05 - First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre - Tinley Park, IL
Aug. 06 - DTE Energy Music Theatre - Clarkston, MI
Aug. 07 - Verizon Wireless Music Center - Noblesville, IN
Aug. 09 - Zoo Amphitheatre - Oklahoma City, OK
Aug. 10 – Gexa Energy Pavilion - Dallas, TX
Aug. 12 - Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood - Atlanta, GA
Aug. 13 - 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre - Tampa, FL
Aug. 14 - Cruzan Amphitheatre - West Palm Beach, FL

Last year's installment of the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival featured KORN, ROB ZOMBIE, LAMB OF GOD, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, ATREYU, HATEBREED, CHIMAIRA and more.

Seven years ago Las Vegas gave birth to some city sinners known as Escape The Fate. Over that course of time the band went on to release multiple EPs and three LPs to pay their depths but to this day they are still nothing but a group of misfits. After building a solid following the band sold 350,000 albums through their previous label, Epitaph, Dying Is Your Latest Fashion (2006) and This War Is Ours (2008), were what made their so-called solid ground their playground. Now the band has been signed to a major label Interscope Records, their recent offering Escape The Fate is what the band considers as their horrifyingly good time. Bassist/vocalist Max Green caught up with me during a phone interview to discuss his time dealing with rehab what he’s up to now and where the band will end up next. 


1. First off welcome back! So would you say that this is a fresh start to a New Year and a whole new chapter in your life?

Max: Cool thank you so much. Definitely man I went to rehab and this is the first tour since I got out so it’s great to be back. Since rehab I’ve become a whole another person. I’ve gotten more confidence and been soul searching which has awakened me from the inside and it’s just been great.

2. How supportive have your fans been since your return to the stage?

Max: The fans have been treating me phenomenally it’s been amazing. I’ve had lots of fans write me emails, letters and a lot of the fans have done school projects on me. There‘s this select groups of fans that I let have my personal phone number, and those fans respect it and don’t hand it out or anything. I let them call me whenever to conduct personal interviews, get their research done ya know? I’m an inspiration to them and they think it’s great on how I was okay with being so public about going to rehab. Just yesterday a fan and their mother had told me that her brother had just entered rehab about a week ago. Fans have made “Max Green Fan Clubs” the whole nine yards and it’s just amazing to be a part of that.

3. You guys just did a performance on FuelTV's "The Daily Habit" will we be seeing you on anymore television networks?

Max: Yeah we did the FuelTV spot that was aired live on TV. We have a couple more things lined up but those have yet to be confirmed. You will definitely be seeing more of Escape The Fate on your television screens sooner than you think.

4. If you could pick a TV show to be on which would you pick and why?

Max: Aw man I’d pick Conan dude. I am so glad he came back I love Conan!

5. Will we be seeing anything in reference to the word "live" whether it'd be in CD or DVD anytime soon?

Max: We’re constantly filming our drummer has been documenting everything since the very beginning. Since getting with Interscope Records they have backed us up 100%. Any crazy ideas we have up our sleeves they are all over it. They help us push the limits on what we want to do. Like I was saying about that daughter and mother with their brother in rehab we want to be able to communicate with our fans as much as possible. On this tour we’ve been recording every single night, right from the soundboard. So there will be a live package put together we’re just not sure on when it will be coming out either this year or next.

6. Is it true that Craig wants to do a video for the song "Zombie Dance"? Do you think if it does get created will it be just like Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video?

Max: That’s actually an idea the entire band had. When we were first demoing it, the title, lyrics, were crazy so we knew we had wanted it to be awesome. A lot of bands out there go crazy on their first debut then afterwards all of that energy fades away. With us we wanted to take it to the next level and create a music video we knew we’d appreciate it. As of right now we’re trying everything we can to get this concept underway, we want it to be huge and the label will be backing it up for us. So it should be like what Michael Jackson did with his videos.

7. When will we be seeing Buckcherry and Escape The Fate hitting the road together?

Max: Oh man with this new album I definitely see that to happen. We’re starting something new added with the old and want to cherish that and keep it going. Besides that Josh is a good friend of mine and the rest of the band so we’ll see if something can indeed happen.

8. Speaking of the road, how is The Dead Masquerade Tour going so far?

Max: It feels so good to be back and out of rehab everyone else is doing so well. We have this huge unique stage show for this tour. We have a stair case on both sides of the stage with a big platform behind the drums with lights, smoke, a big banner in the background. It’s a total reference to the 80’s era of what Iron Maiden did back in the day. The kids are getting really into it and loving every minute. We’re drawing them in and that’s just amazing. We get off stage every night and say to us “That was the best show ever”. It keeps getting better and better every day.


9. Recently a lot of bands have been performing full-length albums from start to finish. Would Escape The Fate ever consider doing this?

Max: It’s funny you say that. That’s something we hadn’t thought about doing on this tour. But with this new album and us promoting it, it’s like we’re already doing it in a way. We do play all of the songs on this album except for maybe one or two. Then we take two from the other releases and mix it up. It is cool that bands do that but a lot of the times when I do go to shows, I feel letdown that the band didn’t play their hits.

10. The new album has been described as an uncut, unrated horror flick. Is that the persona the band is portraying and does each individual band member have their own character?

Max: Yeah I wear make-up every night and dress up every night. All the other guys wear certain stage clothes for certain shows on this touring cycle. Like David Bowie during the 70s and 80s those bands had different costumes that they would wear to represent what album was what. That’s what we’re trying to do, use that same concept except we do it in what we believe in and that’s what sets us apart from all the other bands.

11. Will Escape the Fate or any of the other bands be doing a meet -n- greet on this tour?

Max: Yeah we’re doing meet-n-greets every night. The only night we couldn’t do it was the night before last night due to the venue having to close we had to cancel it. What we do want is for the fans to go out to their local FYE or come to the FYE booth at the show purchasing our album that will get them a wristband so that they can meet us after the show. We refuse to put a limit on how many fans show up, if 50 shows up then we will meet that share if 500 fans show up we will meet every single person no matter how long it takes.

12. What’s happening after this tour, what else can we expect from you guys in 2011?

Max: After this tour we’re going to be touring in Australia in April. Then hit the states again and Europe before the year ends. We just got back from there actually because we wanted to do some make-up shows for the fans wanting to do give back to them ya know?

13. Finish this sentence; if you don't know Escape The Fate, then you don't know ________?

Max: SHIT!

Smashing through Anaheim on Jan. 15, 29 & Feb. 12 Premiering For First Time Ever at Dodger Stadium on Feb. 19

Southland motor sports fans will experience a massive collection of the world’s best monster trucks battling it out in the ultimate event of intense speed, racing and demolition as Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam® returns to Anaheim – and for the first time ever – will premiere at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles!  Due to popular demand, Monster Jam has added another show to the Los Angeles schedule this year – now with four high-energy events between January 15 – February 19, 2011.

This year’s truck lineup is showcased with appearances by Monster Jam powerhouses – the legendary GRAVE DIGGER®, GRAVE DIGGER LEGEND® (marking the Anaheim return and L.A. debut of 8-time World Champion Tom Meents for 2 shows).  Several all-new Monster Jam trucks will be premiering for the 2011 season including SON UVA DIGGER (driven by Ryan Anderson, son of Grave Digger icon Dennis Anderson), DRAGON’S BREATH and MONSTER MUTT ROTTWEILER® plus the Southland debuts of SUPERMAN, AVENGER, BRUTUS and NITRO CIRCUS.  Other trucks showcased at select events include Turtle, King Krunch, El Matador, The Patriot, Tropical Thunder, Backwards Bob, Obsessed, Maniac, Jurassic Attack, Captain USA, Stone Crusher, Time Fly’s, Shocker, Dragon’s Breath, Nitro Circus,  Bounty Hunter, The Felon, Obsessed, Iron Outlaw, Obsession, Ironman, The Felon and more!  **truck line-up subject to change.

In addition to the world-class racing and freestyle competition action, die-hard fans can come to the stadium early to enjoy the Party in the Pits pre-show experience – which gives fans unparalleled access to view their favorite trucks up-close, meet the star drivers for autographs and take photos!

One of the most popular touring family entertainment sporting events in the world, the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam is a high-flying, car-crushing explosive event of demolition, speed and powerful stunts surrounding the world’s best monster trucks and drivers whose skills provide an awesome spectacle of “rock-and-roar” that will bring fans to their feet cheering for more!

SCHEDULE: Anaheim – Angel Stadium
2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA  92806
Saturday, January, 15th at 7:00pm
Saturday, January 29th at 7:00pm
Saturday, February 12th at 7:00pm

Los Angeles – Dodger Stadium
1000 Elysian Park Avenue, Los Angeles, CA  90012
Saturday, February 19th at 7:00pm

PIT PARTY: Open from 3:00pm – 5:30pm prior to each show
Exclusive Early Access to Pit Party at 2:00pm for Total Access Pass holders

TICKETS: Prices range from $22, $32 and $45 for Adults
Kids (age 2-12) tickets are only $10 each
Total Access Pass - $75

**Above ticket prices are advance purchase only; all tickets are $2 more day of show.
Tickets subject to convenience and handling fees.

While accessibility to the stars of Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam is a staple in the brand, the Total Access Pass is paramount in maximizing the live event experience. The quintessential VIP backstage pass, Total Access Pass offers fans the distinct opportunity to the best of everything, including a private pit party to meet the drivers early before the event opens to the general public, premium seating and other benefits that make the Total Access Pass a must have.  A very limited number of these tickets are set aside for the biggest Monster Jam fans – so be sure to order early as these will sell-out!

All seats are reserved and available at the venue Box Office, online at Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.


If you loved Chicago then you are going to love Burlesque. It possesses the same momentum, passion, and energy that that film contain except this one has more sex appeal. Starring Cher and Christina Aguilera the duo take on their stances of the Los Angeles spotlight on the famous Sunset Strip in Hollywood, California. Ali (Christina Aguilera) works in a bar in a small town in Iowa. Her boss hasn't paid her for her two months of work so she's had enough.

She takes what he owes her and heads out to pursue her dream of singing. After a day of searching for jobs she finds herself at a burlesque bar and becomes overwhelmed by its concept. She tries to persuade Tess (Cher) to let her perform on stage but she refuses so Ali finds another way to make her known on this hot yet dirty club scene. Cam Gigandet who plays friendly bartender Jack befriends Ali and the two help out one another in the long run accompanying one another with their everyday struggles of life.

Soon after Ali shows during an audition set-up where she shows her stuff but rival Niki has her own plans in mind. Later that night she hijacks the DJ booth leaving Ali helpless on stage but that was the wrong move to make because by doing this it got everything and everyone turned upside down. This is what Chicago was made of except filled with so much more to offer, music, sex, booze, it's all in the lifestyle that is Burlesque.



Seventy-four years later and still going strong Walt Disney Animation Studios has debuted its 50th animated feature film to hit the big screens just last year. Entitled Tangled the story is taken from the Brothers Grimm German fairy tale version of Rapunzel. Featuring voices of Mandy Moore, Zachary Levi and Donna Murphy, this cast of likeable characters captures the imagination, creativity, and joy of what the Disney franchise has been known to create.

Our tale begins with an elderly witch named Gothel who witness a drop of sunlight fall from the sky to create a magical flower with the ability to heal the sick and wounded. She uses this flower for herself to keep herself young and beautiful but after failing to keep the flower hidden it is discovered by those who need it most, the King and Queen. The flower's powers heal the dying mother as she gives birth to their baby daughter Rapunzel who they cherish dearly. But little did they realize that Gothel had a plan of her own. She would late one night kidnap their child claiming her as her own and keep her locked away in tower where no one would be able to find her. But eighteen years go by and for Rapunzel it is her day of destiny, her day to shine, and her day to be free.

This film goes down the lines of sticking to the classic era that once was Disney animation. It’s filled with humor, adventure, and musical appeal all over that will recapture the imaginations of everyone who ever believed in magic.

Could it be true oh yes indeedy Mr. Motorcycle man himself Jesse James is now engaged to popular tattooist Kat Von D. James tells The Associated Press this past Thursday "It's true", so now that the word is out, what is going to be happening next? Well if you were wondering on hearing some wedding bells better step back a foot or two because that's just not happening.... not yet anyway.

The devilish duo began their dating stroll over the summer time after his publicity split with Oscar-winning sunshinr Sandra Bullock. Mr. 41-year-old biker/business personal caleld Von D his best friend. Von D, known as Katherine von Drachenberg says that James is the one. The 28-year-old is the starlit of the TLC reality show "LA Ink" has seeped its ink trechously all over the Los Angeles terrain as it were. People Magazine are the ones who got the first dibs on the engagement and James went on to say that "2010 was actually the best year of my life because I fell in love with my best friend. An amazing woman who stood behind me when the world turned their backs." Though the world may have turned their backs it was all eyes on how the prior five year marriage had suddenly collapsed from under them soon after Bullock had won an Oscar for her role in the hit 2010 film "The Blind Side".

James had then apologized to the actress and his three children for all of the pain, embarrassment, and suffering he had conjured. Later on he told ABC's "Nightline" that he was the most hated man in the world for capping off Bullock's career with such a high but deeply personal low he couldn't believe it. The couple separated in March and the divorce between them was set in stone once June had arrived. On January  9 of this year James had already begun to confess his love for Von D, writing via his Twitter page that "I have Never Felt so Loved! I'm The Luckiest (man) in the World!" Von D countered with posting Thursday that she is "overwhelmed with joy."

Sakar International is teaming up with Mattel's Monster High to undergo a series of branded electronics that will range from computers, video games, cell phone accessories among other popular hands on electro knick-knacks. Aside from that the girl of her wills can deck out her room with a Monster High-branded message board that lights up, along with a bedroom doorbell, answering machine with phone and even a mini-fridge. Within the hands-on electronics scene such products include text messengers, wireless intercom sets, ear buds, MP3, CD players, walkie talkies, digital cameras and camcorders, headphones, speakers, flashlights, mouse pads, laptop sleeves, iPhone cases, plus tons more. All will incorporate the franchise's pink and black graphic design with the skulluette logo labeled on top.

This is the first time that Mattel has had a new intellectual property with such a diverse consumer product line of categories it would connect well in the long run. As such the delivers rich content and relatable storytelling via publishing, web, animation and live-action theatrical entertainment as well as consumer products in notable categories including apparel and accessories, and toys. Sakar Vice President of Licensing Liza Abrams goes on to say that "This license gives us the opportunity to work closely with an original property that is literally rewriting the rules of the entertainment franchise marketplace. It's a completely different challenge than working with a brand that has been an icon for decades," adding on further that "With its on-trend pop-goth aesthetic and relatable characters and storyline, Monster High has the potential to develop a monster-sized fan base."

VP Marketer Susie Lecker says "Integral to Mattel's launch of the Monster High franchise has been securing the right strategic partners for the brand," concluding that "Sakar's notable success in the electronics space and their creative integration of the Monster High aesthetic into their designs are in line with our objective to keep the brand on trend and relevant to today's gadget-focused girls." So without a doubt this franchise is just spicing thins up.

Ear Bud Headphones

Headphones

Walkie Talkie

California lords of auditory torture, LIGHTNING SWORDS OF DEATH, are currently preparing for an upcoming North American tour in support of  Czech Republic-by-way-of-Chicago death metal legends Master. The long-anticipated trek, which will include Ohio thrashers Mobile Deathcamp, is set to take place this month and run through approximately a month's worth of dates. Stay tuned for further details.

LIGHTNING SWORDS OF DEATH will be touring in support of The Extra Dimensional Wound, their second full-length, released via Metal Blade Records last year. Their record continues to reap critical acclaim for its inherently evil atmosphere and infernal crushingness. About.com called it: “one of the label’s best releases in recent memory. What makes this album work so well is that LSOD haven’t lost their powerful low end, their penchant for blasphemy [or] their H.P. Lovecraft tinged-lyrics…..” while Stereogum commended the band saying The Extra Dimensional Wound is, “brutal, icy hot, super heavy, [and] full of lurching ‘grooves,’” Added  Invisible Oranges adamantly: “…perhaps the first American black metal band who can go toe-to-toe with Europe’s heavy-hitters in terms of force.” Sea Of Tranquility called it “a solid old school sounding release the ups the ante as far as the brutality goes,” and The Gauntlet put it simply: "LIGHTNING SWORDS OF DEATH evoke unforgiving torture and terror with every note.”

The Extra Dimensional Wound sawits vinyl release last month via Canonical Hours Records. The wax version is available as a deluxe gatefold LP featuring two 200-gram discs with a 12-page booklet and expanded artwork in a limited edition of 500 copies.

http://www.myspace.com/lightningswordsofdeath
http://www.facebook.com/lightningswordsofdeath
http://www.metalblade.com
http://www.canonicalhours.com

We are happy and relieved to inform you, that Nergal left the hematology division of Uniwersyteckie Centrum Kliniczne (UCK) in Gdansk on Monday, January 17th, four weeks after he underwent a bone marrow transplant procedure. Below you can find his comment:

"Hey! What's up! At last – one could say. After almost half a year of treatment in various hospitals, several cycles of chemotherapy, irradiation and a bone marrow transplant, I have been finally released home in a pretty fuckin' good condition. I'm feeling ok, taking the intensity of treatment under consideration. That was not an easy period of my life, but, as I envisioned, I left the hospital victorious. I never considered any other options, but anyway, there were rough moments too… At this point I must express my thanks to the people who made all of those downs fairly bearable. My parents – thank you. You deserve a monument for all your love and patience. Dorotka, thank you for your heroic attitude, love and support. I can't forget Doda's fans, who made a gigantic effort for me and other ill people. You rule! Absolutely fantastic Behemoth fans from all over the world were organizing various events to make people aware of what leukemia is. To all of you out there - my deepest respect! Thank you – the real heroes - Prof. Hellmann, Dr. Piekarska, Dr. Knopinska, Doc. Giebel, Prof. Hołowiecki and all the nurses of the hematology division of the Medical Academy in Gdansk and the Oncology Clinic in Gliwice for all the professionalism and great hearts. My band mates for all the friendship and never-ending support. All my friends for sticking to me throughout the whole period of my illness. The list is too long to mention you all, but remember, you have special place in my heart."

Nergal will now go through a recovery which will last for several months. During this time he will stay in his flat in one of the Gdansk's districts.

"Although the whole treatment went really good, as well as the bone marrow transplant and the post-transplant period, the next several months is the time when I must really take care of myself. Of course I will have plenty of time to recover, think about the strategy and my return to the stage – which approaches imminently (laughs). First of all however I must rebuild my physical condition… apart from that, I hunger for playing, I haven't been playing the guitar for a half of year now! Really much to catch up, but also a huge motivation and a desire to work again at the same time. This year will be a really important one for me and the band!"

http://www.behemoth.pl
http://www.myspace.com/behemoth
http://www.facebook.com/behemoth


Sweden's AMON AMARTH are currently gearing up to unleash, Surtur Rising, the eighth studio offering in their critically revered pantheon of Viking-inspired death metal. Named in tribute to Surtur, leader of the fire giants of Muspelheim (“flame land”) and the oldest being in the nine worlds of Norse mythology, the record, which was listed among Decibel Magazine's most anticipated albums of 2011, features 10 tracks of sword-wielding, fist-pumping,  hyper climactic battle anthems. The followup to 2008's monolithic Twilight Of The Thunder God full-length, was recorded, mixed and mastered at Fascination Street Studios Örebro, Sweden with Jens Bogren and features strikingly brutal cover art by Tom Thiel.



Track Listing:

01. War of the Gods"
02. Töck's Taunt - Loke's Treachery Part II
03. Destroyer of the Universe
04. Slaves of Fear
05. Live Without Regrets
06. The Last Stand of Frej
07. For Victory or Death
08. Wrath of the Norsemen
09. A Beast Am I
10. Doom Over Dead Man

As an unofficial kick off to its release, AMON AMARTH will make a live appearance on the long anticipated 70000 Tons Of Metal cruise, scheduled to take place from January 24th - 28th. The voyage will begin in  Miami, Florida, make its way to Cozumel, Mexico and play host to 40 bands including Voivod, Sodom, Iced Earth, Fear Factory and Obituary. For more info, visit: http://www.70000tons.com.

Surtur Rising will be released in North America on March 29, 2011 via Metal Blade Records.

http://www.myspace.com/amonamarth
http://www.amonamarth.com
http://www.facebook.com/AmonAmarthBand
http://twitter.com/amonamarthband


AS I LAY DYING will be the ones to headline this year's California Metalfest V, set to take place March 19 at The Grove in Anaheim, California.

The festival is shaping up as follows:

AS I LAY DYING
SUICIDE SILENCE
WINDS OF PLAGUE
BORN OF OSIRIS
DARKEST HOUR
AFTER THE BURIAL
AS BLOOD RUNS BLACK
SLEEPING GIANT
THE HUMAN ABSTRACT
THE GREAT COMMISSION

“The Here And Now”, is the follow-up to the Architect’s 2009 release “Hollow Crown” and this time it seems like this release is a continuation of what that release had to offer. Except this time the Architects seem to have established a well balanced sound and quality that they can easily relay on. Like take "Day In Day Out" is the aggressive impulse that has just been lingering along until now. This tune provides upfront aggression with hard hitting guitar structure the vocal chords used just follow right on through. Whereas much softer tune "An Open Letter To Myself", captures the Architects are a mellower base and feel. Expressing an in-depth look as to who they are on the inside not just the outside.

Some of the other tunes fall within these lines of swapping between fast and heavy meets mellowed and focused. "Red Eyes" is a great example because it captures that mellow focus with those minor impulses of screaming tactics that are used every so often. Architects style is been well established here and they have matured with sound quality and source of input in writing and detailing their musical abilities.

Architects will surely become the next Blessthefall if they put their minds to it.

The third edition of The Atticus Metal Tour 3 featuring Darkest Hour, Born of Osiris, As Blood Runs Black, and The Human Abstract will doing it's rounds at the following hot spots;


Tour Dates:

Feb. 25 - Washington, DC - 930 Club (Darkest Hour CD release show)
Feb. 26 - Virginia Beach, VA - Skate High
Feb. 27 - Greensboro, NC - Greene St
Feb. 28 - Pittsburgh, PA - Diesel
Mar. 01 - Joliet (Chicagoland), IL - Mojoes (w/ In The Midst Of Lions)
Mar. 02 - Sauget (St. Louis), IL - Pop's (w/ In The Midst Of Lions)
Mar. 03 - Covington, KY - The Madhatter (w/ In The Midst Of Lions)
Mar. 04 - Detroit, MI - Harpos (w/ In The Midst Of Lions)
Mar. 05 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave (w/ In The Midst Of Lions)
Mar. 06 - St. Paul, MN - The Station (w/ In The Midst Of Lions)
Mar. 07 - Iowa City, IA - Blue Moose
Mar. 08 - Omaha, NE - Sokol Underground
Mar. 09 - Colorado TBA
Mar. 10 - Salt Lake City, UT - Club Sound (w/ Norma Jean, Stick To Your Guns)
Mar. 11 - Reno, NV - The Alley
Mar. 12 - Sacramento, CA - Ace of Spades
Mar. 13 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre
Mar. 14 - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
Mar. 15 - Boise, ID - The Venue
Mar. 17 - Santa Clara, CA - The Avalon (w/ Sleeping Giant)
Mar. 18 - Modesto, CA - Seasons Hall (w/ Sleeping Giant)
Mar. 19 - Anaheim, CA - The Grove (California Metalfest V)
Mar. 20 - Tucson, AZ - The Rock
Mar. 22 - Tulsa, OK - Marquee Theatre
Mar. 24 - Indianapolis, IN - Emerson Theatre
Mar. 25 - Dayton, OH - The Attic
Mar. 26 - Lancaster, PA - Chameleon Club (w/ This Or The Apocalypse)
Mar. 27 - Albany, NY - Northern Lights (w/ This Or The Apocalypse)


Monster High is slowly but surely seeping into the New Year and some newbie goodies includes some stylish appeal way better than what Justice has to offer. Macy’s who some fans have reported to have some Monster High memorabilia available now has some new t-shirts hanging on its ghoulish shelves. The assortment comes in 6 different styles; the first three consists of a white t-shirt with a drawn design of Draculaura. Another design has the Monster High skull in glitter with the name Monster High beneath it. While the third design is of Frankie with a heart made out of stitches go figure.


The other set of three comes in a light pink tone with purple Monster High crest in the center, while the other is black with various hearts, MH skull, and other symbols in various colors. Lastly is a white tee with all of our lovely ghouls in their various colors, the top saying “Freaky Just got Fabulous” with “Monster High” on the bottom. So be sure to keep a look out for these creepy designs available now at your local Macy’s.

Set One

Set Two

Long Beach, Californians I Am Ghost formed 7 years ago and went on to get signed to Epitaph Records from 2005 to 2010 before splitting up for good in the summer of July 2010. The band went on to release a single EP We Are Always Searching (2005) and three studio albums, 2 being studio releases' Lover's Requiem (2006) and Those We Leave Behind (2008) while one was a live release LIVE in Orange County (2009). Three music videos followed; "Civil War and Isolation Thirst" (2005) "Our Friend Lazarus Sleeps", (2006) and "Saddest Story Never Told" (2009).

Frontman Steven Juliano (vocalist) who fronted the band has also gotten former drummer Justin McCarthy to help him out on a whole another project, Requiem for the Dead.  That Steven had been working on while still involved with I Am Ghost. Well now the times have changed yet again and Juliano had this to say in regards to what is to be of I Am Ghost once and for all.

“Hello everyone, this is Steven Juliano. There are no words to describe how fucking upset I am at this very second as I type this out to all of you. It has been a misshapen, totally retarded roller coaster that has gone on the past few months. I maybe shouldn't write this in haste, but damn it, you all need to know asap on what the fuck went wrong, and why there will be, and i repeat, WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER I AM GHOST SHOW. Put a fork in me people, I am done.

Months ago, I got a call from other past members of IAG to do ONE final I Am Ghost show in Southern California. To be honest, at first, I said NO. I had no reason to want to get together with everyone else again and play these songs. The only way I would even consider it would be if ALL the original members off the EP and Lovers Requiem all got back, that I would consider it. So, after that was said, the idea got thrown away.

THEN, a month goes by, and I get this long email from one of the key members of this reunion stating that after thinking long and hard they want to do a final show. They even had great ideas of where to play, this and that. So, the final piece was put into place. We had a full reunion show. I was kinda excited...

Then, the person stopped returning our calls. Our emails. They just disappeared off the face of the earth. It was so weird. A few of us were like, "What the fuck is going on? Are you seriously doing this?" Long story short, they stopped all contact after asking US to do one last show ever. Seriously fucked up.

So, that idea fails. Another month goes by, and me and one of the past members of IAG start talking again via text and phone calls and its like, "Dude, why not do this last show? Why not have a good time and just walk on stage and play for the fans that stood by our side since 2005?" I don't hate anyone. At least, not anymore. Life is way too short to hold this sick, stupid grudge. So, the wheels start to turn and it seems that we got a solid I Am Ghost line up. Some members off Lovers Requiem, some members off Those We Leave Behind.

Now this is the fucking kicker: Everyone agreed. Everyone said YES to this date, time, and place. It was a 100% "I am in!"

So, then... as of today, I get a fucking email from one of the key members stating they cant do it. "It doesn't feel right." I would have totally respected this persons decision 100% and said "No problem mang!" if it wasnt to the point that tickets went on sale for this show a few days before. And this person knew that. That is my anger. This is my fucking pissed off rant!

I know there are tons and TONS of people who bought tickets already. It was already half sold out. I know there are fans and friends who bought plane tickets as far as from Europe! And all I can say is, i am truly, TRULY sorry.

I know I upset a lot of you by quitting I Am Ghost back in July, and for that, I am sorry. But, this was honestly the best thing for the band in the long run. I guess in the back of my head, this was my way of making it up to you all...

Now it's time for me to let this all go. I dealt the good fight. I will miss you all...”

Love,
Steven Juliano

PS:
Thank you to Ryan, Gabe and Ron of I Am Ghost for helping put together this show. Sorry it didnt work out...


Good Charlotte will be going on tour with Forever The Sickest Kids and This Century. Find out when they will be arriving in your town below.

Tour Dates:

3/3 Atlanta, GA Center Stage
3/4 Washington, DC 9:30 Club
3/5 Allentown, PA Crocodile Rock
3/6 Philadelphia, PA Theatre of Living Arts
3/8 New York, NY Irving Plaza
3/9 Boston, MA Paradise Rock Club
3/11 Toronto, ONT Phoenix
3/12 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
3/13 Detroit, MI St. Andrew's Hall
3/14 Milwaukee, WI The Rave
3/15 Chicago, IL House of Blues
3/16 Minneapolis, MN First Avenue
3/18 Denver, CO The Summit Music Hall
3/19 Salt Lake City, UT In The Venue
3/21 Portland, OR Roseland
3/22 Seattle, WA Showbox at The Market
3/23 Spokane, WA Knitting Factory
3/25 San Francisco, CA The Regency Ballroom
3/26 Los Angeles, CA House of Blues
3/27 Anaheim, CA House of Blues


Atreyu have annouced that they will be going on a hiatus for a foreseeable future. The Californian rebels who have released five albums made the annoucement via their Twitter page. The band on to state "Atreyu is taking a long long break after 11 years of rocking." However, they stressed, "We aren’t breaking up." They added: "We aren't writing, recording or touring for a while, simply taking a break to recharge and focus on different parts of our lives."


Finnish five-piece Children of Bodom has released their brand new single ‘Was It Worth It?’ via their Facebook page the single was taken off the band's seventh studio album ‘Relentless, Reckless Forever’. Spinefarm Records will release the album on March 7th intertionally and March 8th in the U.S.

Guitarist/vocalist Alexi Laiho says "The single is a total party song," adding further "It doesn't have your typical BODOM sound, but it's one of my favorites and heavy as hell!"


Ten years ago death was born and given a name. One so fierce yet so sinister it cried for forgiveness. Deathchain would be its calling and from that day forward the elements known as death metal and thrash metal would cease to exist. Over the ten year rampage Deathchain would go on to release five full-lengths, two split releases, and an assortment of side projects that occupy each individual band member for as long as possible. But when it’s all said and done, it still brought back that essence of death. Guitarist Cult decided to discuss the current whereabouts of Deathchain’s activities as well as what's in store on their fifth full-length release entitled "Death Gods". So we are yet again given a chance at death but just how much death can we withstand to behold?
 
1. It's been two years since the first time I interviewed Deathchain, what has the band been up too?

Cult: Well, I do remember when we did the previous interview, you and I, and I had just joined the band very recently so from my behalf I can say that now I'm not the latest member anymore. C. Void joined Deathchain as a permanent member to do background growls and programming. He's been doing background vocals on every Deathchain album so it was a natural continuation. We also made a new album quite soon after the previous one, and it has received very good feedback so far! Soon it'll be released abroad so we're looking forward to see the reaction. We played like 15 shows or something in Finland at the end of 2010.

2. How long did it take to record your latest material?

Cult: A couple of weeks as always Kassara recorded his parts, the drums, very fast also as always, so after 2-3 days he was done. Then it was time for the rest of us, and all in all it took about two and a half weeks. Corpse and I are the ones sitting most of that time at the studio, doing a lot of stuff besides recording our guitar parts... vocal arrangements, some last minute lyric writing etc.

3. What is the inspiration behind your latest material?

Cult: There are two main inspirations behind the lyrics and music, the writings of H.P. Lovecraft and ancient goddesses in Mesopotamian mythology. Lyric-wise, Corpse is doing the whole Lovecraft stuff, the Cthulhu mythos being essential there. Khaos participates also in some lyric writing. For me it was natural to write about certain Mesopotamian goddesses since I had just been doing some activities related to them... We try to manifest the essence and the atmosphere of the lyrics through the music the best we can. Sometimes the music itself creates or portrays certain 'vibes', and the lyrics are born from that, you know?

4. The title of your fifth release is "Death Gods" so would you say that Deathchain are these so-called "gods of death"?

Cult: How about Death Metal Gods? Now I wouldn't say we're exactly that hahah! That's actually a funny detail since some instances have interpreted the album title in that manner, that we are the "Death Gods". The album name is referring to ancient deities, not to us. But we are definitely the messengers of the Death Gods!

5. You went from being a part of Dynamic Arts Records to Cobra Records, so the snake over rules the arts?
Cult: Hahah, yeah, we worship the Serpent Of The Deep. There's stuff going on now with management things and so forth, so I think there'll be a lot more things happening in 2011 than what happened in the past.

6. How about all of the releases that you've done so far, if you could go back and change anything would you?

Cult: As I've played only in the two latest albums, "Death Eternal" and "Death Gods", I wouldn't go and change anything what's been done before I joined. And I also like the older albums so much that I wouldn't change a thing in them. For me it's like, we always give 100% at the studio and that's it. For example "Death Gods" represents Deathchain in the year 2010, period. Of course maybe someday I will feel that some things could have been done differently but my goal is to go forward instead of looking too much in the past.

7. Which would you say is your favorite album, song, and lyric out of all of the albums that you've released?

Cult: At the moment it would be "The Lion-Head" from the latest album and "The Crawling Chaos" from "Death Gods". From all of our discography, songs like "Return of the Nemesis", "Deathammer", "Poltergeist" etc. hit the spot for me. I think we should actually play some of those live again. Favorite album is "Death Gods", after that "Deathrash Assault". I love the lyrics of those good old demo songs ha!

8. You've been together for 13 years, what comes to mind and what do you think of lucky 13?

Cult: Hmm, the last album hit the Finnish charts at number 13. Maybe this is an omen that the shit will really hit the fan soon! Well, actually 13 doesn't strike me that much, I have much more things going on with the number 11. You can give energy and meaning to any number, it's just that some numbers correspond more than others.

9. All Deathchain members are involved in other bands like Deathbound, Forgotten Horror, Dawn Of Relic, Darkwoods My Bethrothed. Would you ever consider doing a show with all of these acts, including Deathchain all on one bill? That'd be a sight to see.

Cult: What an interesting idea! That would definitely be a bizarre night, same guys just switching instruments and starting another gig hahahah. Some Deathchain members have actually had even 3 shows per one night due to the quantity of bands, I think it was Kuolio. It's quite rare but sometimes we run into these kinds of weird booking situations.

10. Out of all of albums you've released you just have to use the words "death" or dead" don't ya?

Cult: It has become this kinda thing for us that we just end up putting "Death" in the album title. Which is very much ok for all of us. We're singing and playing about Death, so it goes straight to the topic, don't you think?

11. Whereabouts has Deathchain made their mark touring-wise? Will we be seeing you guys in the states or not yet?

Cult: Not yet. This is the thing which is bugging us at the moment, the lack of shows outside Finland. But, we continue to bang our heads against the rock until the rock breaks. Slowly but surely things are progressing so it'll happen, it's just a matter of time.

12. You've done shows with Destruction if you ever make it to the states do you think you can drag them along? It'd make quite the show.

Cult: I doubt it would be Destruction who we'll tour with, but of course you never know. I checked out them last year and they still seemed to have a good live show.

13. Do you and the rest of the band have anything lined up for the holidays?

Cult: Well I live in Sweden, and the rest of the guys live in Finland, so I'm having a damn well earned break and chilling out from traveling between these two counties constantly!

14. What will the future bring for Deathchain. Could you tell us about future plans, shows and projects?

Cult: We're starting to make new material now, and as I mentioned we're struggling to get a tour or two abroad for this album. The next live show will be next month, February, with bands like Triptykon and Accept, so the year is starting off nicely.

15. Anything you'd like to add or say to your fans?

Cult: Thank you very much for this interview! And for the fans, keep on worshipping the Death Gods and see you at a gig venue or a festival somewhere this year! Cthulhu is rising!

One album down and another on the way Sacramento, Californians Jack Ketch is set to release their second album titled "Bringers Of The Dawn." Since the release of “In Articulo Mortis”, (2009) the band has focused upon perfecting their progressive source of style and sound that they have maintained to develop.

As such, the follow-up is indeed quite impressive yet precisely progressive as their inscription precedes them to be. Take for instance the opening track “The Arrival”, after a 50 second mellow introduction you immediately get thrown with this fast paced atomic wave of energy that instantly explodes upon the title track. This tune keeps the energy maintained by progressing it forward with edgy guitar riffs hard hitting growls with fast beating drum tones that it bashes it altogether. "Decimated Deputation", provides an even faster rate of beats whereas the previous tunes just held onto it.

"Hope for the Faithless", express a flip-flop effect because it turns all of that progressive and flips it upside down by presenting this instrumental track that goes down the lines of sounding just like Opeth. But as soon as this tune descends the flip-flop is put back into effect with "Gamma Ray" a concluding tune that really rattles your bones right to the core.

If Opeth and Between the Buried and Me were to ever have a baby then Jack Ketch would the new born on the scene and would forever cease havoc on our hopeless society.

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