MERRIMACK-GO-ROUND

French black metal institution and MORIBUND recording artists MERRIMACK are confirmed as support for the "U.S. Plague Tour 2009," which will feature headliners MARDUK and also NACHTMYSTIUM, MANTIC RITUAL, and on select dates BLACK ANVIL. This tour will be MERRIMACK's first (and highly anticipated) performances on American soil, all in support of new album Grey Rigorism, recently released in North America by MORIBUND. Says founding guitarist Perversifier, "We're very happy to finally hit American soil and spread the disease of Grey Rigorism there." Grey Rigorism is being hailed by critics as one of the year's very best black metal albums, with the well-respected Decibel even calling it a "hollow-horned masterpiece...with a cold, communicable bitterness few modern-day BM hordes have the ability to convincingly convey."

MERRIMACK have also added a new date in Salt Lake City, Utah on December 9th. Here are the rest of the confirmed dates/venues:

Nov 19 Allentown, PA @ The Sterling Hotel*
Nov 20 Worcester, MA @ The Palladium*
Nov 21 Montreal, QC @ Les Foufounes Electriques*
Nov 22 Toronto, ON @ Wreck Room *
Nov 23 Baltimore, MD @ Sonar
Nov 24 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade
Nov 25 Tampa, FL @ Brass Mug
Nov 27 New Orleans, LA @ The Bar
Nov 28 Austin, TX @ Red 7
Nov 29 Ft Worth, TX @ Ridglea Theater
Nov 30 Tulsa, OK @ The Marquee
Dec 2 Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad
Dec 3 Tempe, AZ @ The Clubhouse
Dec 4 Hollywood, CA @ The Key Club*
Dec 5 San Marcos, CA @ The Jumping Turtle*
Dec 6 San Francisco, CA @ DNA Lounge*
Dec 7 Portland, OR @ Satyricon
Dec 8 Seattle, WA @ Studio Seven
Dec 9 Salt Lake City, UT @ Club Vegas
Dec 10 Denver, CO @ Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom
Dec 11 Kansas City, MO @ Riot Room
Dec 12 Chicago, IL @ Reggie's Rock Club
Dec 13 St Paul, MN @ Station 4
Dec 14 Detroit, MI @ Blondie's
Dec 15 Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's
Dec 16 New York, NY @ Gramercy Theater*
* = to feature BLACK ANVIL

For more info, consult www.moribundcult.com, www.myspace.com/merrimackofficial, and www.thunderdometouring.com.

IA MARDUK ONCE AGAIN!

MARDUK Announce North American Headlining Tour

Following three very special U.S. appearances earlier this month in Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York (effectively breaking their streak of visa issues), Swedish black metal battalion MARDUK will return for a full North American headlining tour this November. The band will be joined by Nachtmystium, Mantic Ritual, Merrimack and Black Anvil (on select dates).

Dubbed U.S. Plague Tour 2009, the trek will kick off on November 20th at the Palladium in Worcester, MA and run through 21 more dates before coming to a close in New York City on December 16th at the Gramercy Theater, where the band recently played to an overwhelming crowd response. Said Phil Freeman from The Village Voice of the performance, "MARDUK's sound was a room-filling roar, with Mortuus' vocals chewing through the mix like a rabid bear."

U.S. PLAGUE TOUR 2009
11/20/2009 The Palladium - Worcester, MA w/ Black Anvil
11/21/2009 Les Foufounes Electriques - Montreal, QC w/ Black Anvil
11/22/2009 Wreck Room - Toronto, ON w/ Black Anvil
11/23/2009 Sonar - Baltimore, MD
11/24/2009 The Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
11/25/2009 Brass Mug - Tampa, FL
11/28/2009 Red 7 - Austin, TX
11/29/2009 Ridglea Theater - Ft Worth, TX
11/30/2009 The Marquee - Tulsa, OK
12/02/2009 Launchpad - Albuquerque, NM
12/03/2009 The Sets - Tempe, AZ
12/04/2009 The Key Club - Hollywood, CA
12/05/2009 The Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
12/06/2009 DNA Lounge - San Francisco, CA
12/07/2009 Satyricon - Portland, OR
12/08/2009 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
12/10/2009 Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom - Denver, CO
12/11/2009 Riot Room - Kansas City, MO
12/12/2009 Reggie's Rock Club - Chicago, IL
12/13/2009 Station 4 - St Paul, MN
12/14/2009 Blondie's - Detroit, MI
12/15/2009 Peabody's - Cleveland, OH
12/16/2009 Gramercy Theater - New York, NY w/ Black Anvil

Check out the U.S. Plague Tour Poster here:

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=451309518&blogId=507325807

MARDUK's eleventh studio album, Wormwood, will be unleashed in the U.S. on October 13, 2009.

RUN THROUGH THE JUNGLE ROT!

Death metal institution and Napalm recording artists JUNGLE ROT will be heading to Europe to spread the message of metal along the frontlines. Touring in support of latest album (and Napalm debut) What Horrors Await, after their European conquest JUNGLE ROT will return to the US and play a slew of dates across the country with DEICIDE. Here are the confirmed dates/venues:

August 29, 2009 US - Milwaukee, WI / Liquor Sweets (21+)
September 3, 2009 GERMANY - Hamburg / Markthalle (w/ Six Feet Under)
September 4, 2009 GERMANY - Jena / F Haus (w/ Six Feet Under)
September 5, 2009 GERMANY - Munich / Backstage (w/ Six Feet Under)
September 6, 2009 SWITZERLAND - Erstfeld / Transilvania (w/ Six Feet Under)
September 9, 2009 BELGIUM - Gent / Frontline
September 10, 2009 HOLLAND - Tiburg / Little Devil
September 11, 2009 GERMANY - Rostock / Alte Zuckerfabrik
September 12, 2009 GERMANY - Kassel / K19
September 13, 2009 HOLLAND - Weert / Triangle Club
September 14, 2009 TBA
September 15, 2009 AUSTRIA - Dornbirn / Schlachthaus
September 16, 2009 AUSTRIA - Vienna / Viper Room
September 17, 2009 CZECH REPUBLIC - Pardubice / RC Ponorka
September 18, 2009 GERMANY - Bayreuth / Juz Komm
September 19, 2009 GERMANY - Leipzig / Hellraiser
October 7, 2009 US - Dallas, TX / House of Blues (w/ Deicide)
October 9, 2009 US - Houston, TX / The Meridian (w/ Deicide)
October 10, 2009 US - San Antonio, TX / Sunken Garden (w/ Deicide)
October 11, 2009 US - El Paso, TX / Club 101 (w/ Deicide)
October 13, 2009 US - Sparks, NV / New Oasis (w/ Deicide)
October 14, 2009 US - Santa Ana, CA / Galaxy Theater (w/ Deicide)
October 15, 2009 US - San Jose, CA / Voodoo Lounge (w/ Deicide)
October 16, 2009 US - San Marcos, CA / The Jumping Turtle (w/ Deicide)
October 17, 2009 US - Yucaipa, CA / Angel's Roadhouse (w/ Deicide)
October 18, 2009 US - West Hollywood, CA / The Key Club (w/ Deicide)
October 21, 2009 US - Englewood, CO / The Gothic Theater (w/ Deicide)
October 22, 2009 US - Wichita, KS / Oz Cafe Concert Venue (w/ Deicide)
October 23, 2009 US - West Dundee, IL / Clearwater Theater (w/ Deicide)
October 24, 2009 US - Detroit, MI / Harpos (w/ Deicide)

NORTH AMERICAN PRESS: Please get in touch ASAP for guest-list spots
EUROPEAN PRESS: Please contact ben@napalmrecords.com for guest-list spots

For more info, please consult www.napalmrecords.com and www.myspace.com/junglerot.

ROT THROUGH THE JUNGLE!

Napalm recording artists JUNGLE ROT announce a handful of US tour dates before they head off to Europe in September in support of Six Feet Under. Touring behind the latest critically acclaimed album (and first for Napalm), What Horrors Await, the Wisconsin death metal masters will hit the following cities:

July 24 – Chicago, Illinois @ Nite Cap
August 8 – Kenosha, Wisconsin @ Ruether High School (w/Lazarus A.D., DNR,
Corruptor, Conniption) ALL AGES
August 9 – Michigan City, Indiana @ White Eagle Park (w/After The Quarrel,
Beresith, Jarvis) ALL AGES
August 21 – Aurora, Illinois @ Rockhouse
August 29 – Milwaukee, Wisconsin @ Liquor Sweets
***The Midwest Heshfest w/ Vadim Vom, Beltfed Weapon, Demized, Evil
Incarnate, Ominous, Cyanosis, Hammered, Blood Obsession, Carnal
Befoulment, Meth Tooth, 40oz Fist, New Society Of Anarchists, Rictus
Grin, Memories Wither



All dates and venues are CONFIRMED. For more info, consult www.junglerot.net, www.myspace.com/junglerot, and www.napalmrecords.com .

"BREAKIN' THE LAW, BREAKIN' THE LAW!"

Judas Priest will take to the road again this summer to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their classic album "British Steel."

The summertime trek, which gets underway July 1 in St Charles, MO, has the metal icons co-headlining with Whitesnake on most of the dates. The outing wraps up Aug. 11 at Morrison, CO's Red Rocks Amphitheatre and comprises stops at festivals, fairs and outdoor venues across the nation, as well as a July 9 stop in Toronto. The full schedule is below.

Judas Priest has been a regular act on the summer concert circuit in recent years, including the Ozzfest and Metal Masters tours. This year's jaunt marks the upcoming anniversary of the group's 1980 release, "British Steel," and the band will commemorate the event by playing the classic album in its entirety at upcoming live shows--including hit singles "Breaking the Law" and "Living After Midnight"--as well as songs from other albums.

Remastered in 2001 and reissued with a few bonus tracks, the fresh version of the three-decade old album preceded the band's most recent release, 2008's "Nostradamus," which debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200, becoming their highest charting album ever.

AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN THE THRONE ROOM

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM to headline North American tour

Acclaimed ethereal USBM unit WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM have just announced their upcoming North American tour this May, which they will be headlining. Joined by a host of other acts such as Krallice, A Storm of Light, Thrones and more along the way, the band has also been added to this years Maryland Deathfest which lands in the middle of the tour, appearing alongside Destroyer 666, Absu, Bolt Thrower, Brutal Truth and more.

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM - headlining North American tour

5/13/2009 Marquis Theatre - Denver, CO w/Krallice

5/14/2009 The Picador - Iowa City, IA w/Krallice

5/15/2009 Triple Rock Social Club - Minneapolis, MN

5/16/2009 Bottom Lounge - Chicago, IL w/Krallice, A Storm of Light

5/17/2009 Casbah - Hamilton, ON w/A Storm of Light, Krallice

5/18/2009 Wreck Room - Toronto, ON w/Thrones, Krallice, A Storm of Light

5/19/2009 La Sala Rosa - Montreal, QC w/Thrones, Krallice, A Storm of Light

5/21/2009 Great Scott - Allston, MA w/Krallice, A Storm of Light

5/22/2009 Europa - Brooklyn, NY w/Thrones, A Storm of Light

5/23/2009 Sonar - Baltimore, MD - as part of Maryland Deathfest

5/24/2009 Club Hell - Providence, RI w/A Storm of Light

5/25/2009 Wallingford American Legion - Wallingford, CT w/Krallice, A Storm of Light

5/26/2009 The Studio at Webster Hall - New York, NY w/Krallice, A Storm of Light

5/28/2009 Kung Fu Necktie - Philadelphia, PA w/Krallice, A Storm of Light [6 PM show]

5/28/2009 Kung Fu Necktie - Philadelphia, PA w/Krallice, A Storm of Light [10 PM show]

5/29/2009 Gallery 5 - Richmond, VA w/Krallice, A Storm of Light, Forensics

5/30/2009 The Hideaway - Johnson City, TN w/Krallice, A Storm of Light

6/01/2009 Caledonia - Athens, GA w/Krallice, A Storm of Light
6/02/2009 The Earl - Atlanta, GA w/Krallice, A Storm of Light

All of this action after the now ongoing tour WITTR is on alongside Tombs and label mates Pelican. The band are touring in support of their third full-length Black Cascade, which is reaping massive critical response from the media!


"...an undeniably powerful, epic slab of atmospheric black metal." - Decibel

The group’s music is swirlier and noisier and more cathartic than most black metal;
its long pieces reward your attention with real musical narrative." - The New York Times

"Wolves in the Throne Room have moved from talented upstarts to potential leaders
of the 'new wave of black metal' with Black Cascade." - Sea of Tranquility


An updated press gallery for Black Cascade is fully operational: http://www.southernlord.com/press/wolvesinthethroneroom

YESSSSSSSSSSSS!

Candlelight announces CIII label tour 2009

Candlelight Records today announces its third label packaged tour for North America. Set to kick off on June 6, CIII will feature the talents of US black metal legends Absu, with support coming from France’s Glorior Belli, Austin-based Averse Sefira and Los Angeles-based Sothis. The tour will visit 22 cities throughout the US and Canada beginning in San Marcos, California and wrapping up in Dallas, Texas on June 29. Tickets for all shows go on sale exclusively at Enterthevault.com today. Tickets will go on sale through all local and online ticket agencies starting March 5.

Absu’s self-titled new album hits stores nationwide February 24. Currently featured on the cover of Metal Maniacs the album is the first to offer new material from the highly regarded metal band in nearly eight years. The Texas-based band, self-described as “mythological occult metal,” are a fan favorite the world over. Terrorizer Magazine calls the new album “a sound incarnate of a band making the underground amazing again… an undeniable masterpiece.” This will be the band’s first large-scale tour since their tour alongside Enslaved in 1997.

France’s Glorior Belli make their first trip to North America as they participate on CIII. Their sophomore record, Manifesting the Raging Beast, was released in 2007 via Southern Lord Records. The band now, signed to Candlelight, will begin recording of their label debut, titled Meet Us at the Southern Sign, this month with hopes to see it released during the tour. Popular site MetalKult said in review, “Manifesting is as darkly beautiful as it is gloom inducing."

Averse Sefira join CIII continuing to support their latest album, Advent Parallax. Time Out New York notes, “black-metal lifers Averse Sefira have become a road-hardened unit, and it shows in the blistering grooves of Advent Parallax. The fourth album of the band’s 12-year career has no gothic frills or weedy “kvlt” production, just eight battle-ready blasts jammed with parched-throat howls, scything guitar riffs, blistering drums and hooks that stick.” Their participation on the tour is their third national tour in two years having previously toured with labelmates 1349 in 2007 and with friends Immolation in early 2008.

Sothis released their debut, De Oppresso Liber, on September 2. Mixed by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond), the record has enjoyed growing and consistent sales since release. This will be the band’s first national tour. Canada’s popular Brave Words Bloody Knuckles magazine says, "behold the next big black metal band." The band is currently completing work on their first video from De Oppresso Liber for the album’s title track.

CIII follows the success of Candlelight’s previous label tours – the first in 2005 featuring Entombed, Crowbar, Pro-Pain & The Mighty Nimbus, and second in 2007 featuring Enslaved, Dark Funeral and then newcomers Abigail Williams. The label, maintaining offices in Philadelphia and London, continues to grow since launching American operations in 2001. Candlelight is distributed throughout the US exclusively via Caroline Distribution, EMI Music for Canada and Plastichead Music for the rest of the world.

Confirmed dates for CIII are:
6/06/2009 Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
6/07/2009 House of Blues - W. Hollywood, CA
6/08/2009 Thee Parkside - San Francisco, CA
6/09/2009 Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR
6/10/2009 El Corazon - Seattle, WA
6/12/2009 The Underground - Calgary, AB
6/13/2009 The Exchange - Regina SK
6/14/2009 Royal Albert Arms - Winnipeg, MT
6/15/2009 Station 4 - St. Paul, MN
6/16/2009 The Pearl Room - Mokena, IL
6/17/2009 Peabody’s - Cleveland, OH
6/18/2009 Wreck Room - Toronto, ON
6/19/2009 Petit Campus - Montreal, QC
6/20/2009 Penny Arcade - Rochester, NY
6/21/2009 BB Kings Blues Club - New York, NY
6/22/2009 Jaxx - W. Springfield, VA
6/23/2009 Volume 11 - Raleigh, NC
6/24/2009 The Muse - Nashville, TN
6/25/2009 The Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
6/26/2009 The Garage - St. Petersburg, FL
6/27/2009 Culture Room - Ft. Lauderdale, FL
6/29/2009 Firewater - Dallas, TX

For more information contact Dave Brenner (earsplitpr@aol.com) or Paula Hogan (paula@candlelightrecordsusa.com).

http://www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
http://www.myspace.com/candlelightrecordsusa

sUIDaKRa

SuidAkrA to release new album, announce North American tour

With the rise in popularity in the Pagan/Celtic Metal Scene, one of the true pioneers of the Genre is ready to take the United States scene by storm. Over their fourteen year history, SuidAkrA have stayed true to their roots and the sound that they have become known for. The German Celtic metallers are returning full steam with their ninth studio album; Crógacht Combining fast melodic death metal, Irish folk music, and a torrent of harmonies, SuidAkrA proves yet again that they possess the ability to blend several different influences into their unique sound. To put a spin on things, new elements have been introduced, like traditional instruments (bagpipes, banjo, tin whistles), a sixteen member choir and epic orchestral arrangements.

Recorded at Gernart Studios with producer Martin Muchwalter, Crógacht delivers an aural assault. In addition to that, the eyes and mind of the listener will also be pleased, as famous Belgian graphic artists Kris Verwimp is responsible not only for the magnificent artwork in the digipack and 16-page booklet, but also for the lyrics of this fascinating concept album. Crógacht, meaning bravery, is based on one of the most dramatic tales in Irish mythology. It tells the story of the hero Cuchulainn’s epic journey to the Isle of Skye, where he seeks to learn the arts of war from the Scythian warrior woman Scathach. The decisions he then has to make set the events in motion that will lead up to his son Conlaoch’s tragic fate…

With overwhelming reactions to their 2006 release, Caledonia, and their November 2008 DVD/Best of CD, 13 Years of Celtic Wartunes, SuidAkrA have performed at over 200 live shows (including the Wacken Open Air Festival five times), and successfully completed several tours in Europe, Russia, and a first-ever American tour. SuidAkrA will take part in the four week Pagan Knights North American tour starting in February 2009 before rocking stages all over Europe and beyond.

Crógacht will be released on March 3rd, 2009. Press copies are available now; interviews available on the tour and otherwise.

Pagan Knights Tour 2009 - SuidAkrA w/TYR, Alestorm:
02/28/2009 The Masquerade - Atlanta, GA

03/01/2009 The Backbooth - Orlando, FL

03/02/2009 The Engine Room - Tallahassee, FL

03/04/2009 Walter’s - Houston, TX
03/05/2009 Red 7 - Austin, TX
03/06/2009 Ridglea Theater - Dallas, TX
03/07/2009 The Marquee - Tusla, OK
03/09/2009 The Launchpad - Albuquerque, NM
03/10/2009 The Clubhouse - Tempe, AZ
03/11/2009 Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
03/12/2009 Knitting Factory - Hollywood, CA
03/13/2009 Thee Parkside - San Francisco, CA
03/14/2009 Satyricon - Portland, OR
03/15/2009 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA
03/16/2009 Club Vegas - Salt Lake City, UT
03/17/2009 Cervantes Ballroom - Denver, CO
03/18/2009 Riot Room - Kansas City, MO
03/19/2009 Station 4 - St. Paul, MN
03/20/2009 Pearl Room - Mokena, IL
03/21/2009 Peabody’s - Cleveland, OH
03/22/2009 Blondie’s - Detroit, MI
03/23/2009 The Opera House - Toronto
03/24/2009 Club Soda - Montreal
03/25/2009 Penny Arcade - Rochester, NY
03/26/2009 31st St. Pub - Pittsburgh, PA
03/27/2009 Sonar - Baltimore, MD
03/28/2009 Sterling Hotel - Allentown, PA
03/29/2009 Highline Ballroom - New York, NY
03/30/2009 Volume 11 - Raleigh, NC



http://www.suidakra.com

http://www.myspace.com/suidakra

http://www.wackenrecords.com

http://www.spvusa.com

http://www.myspace.com/spvusa

OH ABIGAIL AGAIN!

Abigail Williams have confirmed a string of headline dates beginning January 30 as they continue to tour in support of their recently released full-length debut, In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns. Produced by James Murphy and featuring contributions from Trym Torson (Emperor/Zyklon), the album topped the CMJ charts the week ending December 5. MTV2/Headbangers Ball world premiered the sextet’s video for the song “Into the Ashes” online December 4 with the broadcast premiere on December 6.

"Response to our album from our fans has been awesome and we are very grateful for the support our fans have given us on tour. We are stoked on Trym's drumming on the album and James Murphy’s mix really brought the whole project to life. We are really looking forward to getting back on the road in support of the new record."

A year-long recording project that utilized studios in the US and abroad, In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns features ten songs showcasing the young band’s dynamic songwriting. Metal Maniacs calls the album, “an unholy alliance between the beauty of the keyboards and the beast of speed. There’s an impressive level of musicianship that crackles with a blazing metal heart.” Orange County-based Mean Street Magazine asserts, “In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns is an epic feast of shrill, feverish riffs, luxurious keyboards and caterwauling vocals. It recalls Emperor’s landmark In The Nightside Eclipse but with more sheer muscle.” The album sold over 1,200 units according to Nielsen Soundscan its first week of release and is a consistent weekly seller with over 20,000 units now shipped globally.

Abigail Williams have been a focus of attention for both fan and critics since their formation several years back. Popular news portal Blabbermouth, noted of the band’s 2007 EP, “Legend lays a firm foundation for greatness to come.” The band have had to endure numerous line up changes and public scrutiny fighting back from a near collapse in late 2007. Vocalist/founder Sorceron says of the band’s shaky beginnings, "things started out rough finding a solid lineup for the band but our current lineup is much stronger then what we started out with. This is not the same band that people witnessed on tour from May 2007. This is something much more focused and we are determined to conquer any obstacles we may face. It’s been a long, bumpy road full of unexpected trials and tribulations but we are in it for the long haul."

Currently featuring guitarists Mike Wilson and Bjornthor, keyboardist Ellyllon, bassist Plaguehammer, and drummer Samus with Sorceron, Abigail Williams have toured the US and Europe several times including their most recent tour with The Faceless completed in November. The band were hand-picked to open for Emperor at their sold-out performance in Los Angeles (House of Blues) in July of 2006. In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns is available in stores now via Candlelight Records.

Abigail Williams, with Rose Funeral, Burning the Masses, The Breathing Process in support:
1/30/2009 Mac's Bar - Lansing, MI
1/31/2009 The Attic - Dayton, OH
2/01/2009 The Jukebox - Rochester, NY
2/02/2009 The Haunt - Yonkers, NY
2/03/2009 Crocodile Rock - Allentown, PA
2/04/2009 Jaxx - W. Springfield, VA
2/05/2009 Peppermint Club - Virginia Beach, VA
2/06/2009 Brewery - Raleigh, NC
2/07/2009 Sector 7G - Augusta, GA
2/08/2009 Fuel Coffehouse - Jacksonville, FL
2/09/2009 Orpheum - Tampa, FL
2/12/2009 Java Jazz - Houston, TX
2/13/2009 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX
2/14/2009 Rose Park Activity Bldg - Abilene, TX
2/15/2009 Plano Centre - Plano, TX
2/16/2009 Lonestar Event Center - Lubbock, TX
2/17/2009 Chic's - El Pazo, TX
2/19/2009 Karma - Victorville, CA

For more information contact Dave Brenner (earsplitpr@aol.com) or Paula Hogan (paula@candlelightrecordsusa.com). European media contact Darren Toms (d.toms@plastichead.com).

http://www.myspace.com/abigailwilliams
http://www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
http://www.myspace.com/candlelightrecordsusa

WHO'S AFRAID OF THE BIG BAD WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM?

In February Southern Lord will proudly release the vinyl only version of the new Wolves In The Throne Room EP entitled Malevolent Grain, featuring two brand new tracks from the Pacific Northwest organic black metallers. Conspiracy Records will offer a limited edition picture disc of the 12" for Europe, while Southern Lord will release a black 180-gram version worldwide. Additionally the band will press a limited CD version for tour purposes only. The EP features the band's newly designed logo crafted by renowned artist Christophe Szpajdel, designer of black metal band logos for Kult Ov Azazel, Emperor, Moonspell and other international acts.

The third WITTR full-length Black Cascade will follow, to be released on March 31st on Southern Lord Records. More info will follow soon on this wholly organic black-drone masterwork. Both the EP and the full-length were recorded to 2-inch tape by Randall Dunn and Mell Dettmer in Seattle this Winter. The new recordings are the first to feature their new guitar player Will Lindsay (Middian) who had previously served as the band's touring bass player, in addition to longtime members, brothers Nathan and Aaron Weaver.

The band will tour Europe beginning in late January, along with three select US dates. More extensive touring through 2009 is also imminent. In addition to the new EP, other new merch for this tour includes a Live At Roadburn 2008 12" record, which also includes a DVD and is being released by Burning World Records.

1/16/2009 The Underground Events Center (benefit for victims of the Green Scare) - Seattle, WA
1/17/2009 The Big Room - Olympia, WA w/Mt. Eerie
1/22/2009 Vera Groningen (Net)
1/23/2009 Jaz Rostock (Ger)
1/24/2009 Loppen Copenhagen (Den)
1/25/2009 Cassiopeia Berlin (Ger)
1/27/2009 Dna Brussels (Bel)
1/28/2009 Underworld London (Uk)
1/29/2009 The Croft Bristol (Uk)
1/30/2009 Busk Birmingham (Uk)
2/02/2009 Engine Rooms Brighton (Uk)
2/03/2009 Boule Noir Paris (Fra)
2/04/2009 Heretic Club Bordeaux (Fra)
2/05/2009 El Balcon De La Lola Bilbao (Spa)
2/06/2009 Sala Whippoorwill Oviedo (Spa)
2/07/2009 Porto-rio Porto (Por)
2/08/2009 Ritmo Y Compas Madrid (Spa)
2/11/2009 Magnolia Milan (Ita)
2/12/2009 Circolo Degli Artisti Rome (Ita)
2/13/2009 Cage Club Livorno (Ita)
2/15/2009 Kunstverein Nurnberg (Ger)
2/16/2009 Klub 007 Prague (Cze)
2/17/2009 Arena Vienna (Aus)
2/18/2009 Beatpol Dresden (Ger)
2/19/2009 Scheldapen Antwerp (Bel)
2/20/2009 W2 Den Bosch (Net)
2/21/2009 Festung Bitterfeld (Ger)
2/28/2009 Masquerade @ Atlanta Metal Festival - Atlanta, GA

http://www.wittr.com
http://www.myspace.com/wolvesinthethroneroom
http://www.southernlord.com
http://blog.southernlord.com
http://www.myspace.com/southernlordrecordings

MORIBUND SUPERTOUR A'HAPPENIN'.

Find below the current UPDATED tour dates for the "Blood Fire Death" U.S. tour featuring HORNA, BLOOD STAINED DUSK, and on select dates NOCTURNAL FEAR. Also find attached a flyer to post online.

11.12.08 Tampa, FL @ The Crowbar

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11.13.08 Marietta, GA @ Swayze's

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11.14.08 Raleigh, NC @ CANCELLED!

*New*11.15.08 Bayonne, NJ @ Liquid

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*New*11.16.08 Allentown , PA @ The Sterling (hotel)

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11.17.08 Detroit, MI @ Blondie's

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11.18.08 Chicago, IL @ The Metal Shaker

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11.19.08 Minneapolis, MN @ Triple Rock Social Club

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11.20.08 off

11.21.08 Seattle, WA @ Studio Seven

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11.22.08 off

11.23.08 Portland, OR @ Rotture

LONG LIVE THE NEW FLESH!

Greece's longstanding black/death craftsmen Septicflesh have been announced as the official opener for the upcoming Cradle of Filth and Satyricon tour this January and February! The full North American tour rampages through the US and Canada from mid-January through the end of February.

Supporting this year's critically-acclaimed album Communion - praised as one of the band's best releases ever - it seems that Septicflesh might finally be getting the attention they should have been praised with for over a decade now.

Septicflesh with Satyricon, Cradle of Filth
1/15/2009 Starland Ballroom - Sayreville, NJ
1/16/2009 The Palladium - Worcester, MA
1/17/2009 Metropolis - Montreal, QC
1/18/2009 Capitol Theatre - Quebec City, QC
1/20/2009 Sound Academy - Toronto, ON
1/21/2009 House of Blues - Cleveland, OH
1/23/2009 Harpo's - Detroit, MI
1/24/2009 The Eagles Club - Milwaukee, WI
1/25/2009 House of Blues - Chicago, IL
1/26/2009 First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
1/28/2009 The Gothic - Engelwood, CO
1/30/2009 MacEwan Hall Ballroom - Calgary, AB
1/31/2009 Edmonton Events Centre - Edmonton, AB
2/02/2009 Commodore - Vancouver, BC
2/03/2009 Showbox Theatre - Seattle, WA
2/04/2009 Roseland Theatre - Portland, OR
2/10/2009 The Grand Ballroom - San Francisco, CA
2/11/2009 Henry Fonda Theatre - Los Angeles, CA
2/12/2009 The Grove of Anaheim - Anaheim, CA
2/13/2009 Marquee Theatre - Tempe, AZ
2/14/2009 House of Blues - Las Vegas, NV

2/16/2008 Scout Bar - San Antonio, TX
2/17/2009 House of Blues - Dallas, TX
2/18/2009 House of Blues - Houston, TX
2/20/2009 Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
2/21/2009 The Club @ Firestone - Orlando, FL
2/22/2009 Club Cinema - Pompano Beach, FL

2/24/2008 The Orange Peel - Asheville, NC
2/25/2009 Norva Theatre - Norfolk, VA
2/26/2009 Ram's Head Live - Baltimore, MD
2/27/2009 Nokia Theatre Times Square - New York, NY
2/28/2009 The Trocadero Theatre - Philadelphia, PA

"There is a vitality, cohesiveness and ambitions experimentation not heard from

the Athens, Greece black metal legends in years." - Outburn

"Forget the book of Revelations; John lied. There were no signs. No horsemen. Only Communion.

The Apocalypse is here. Run for your life." - Terrorizer

"Like Theogonia, last year’s fine effort from countrymen Rotting Christ, Septicflesh has

produced a kickass album that will give the band a new lease of life." - MetalReviews.com

"...Septicflesh have produced an effort, which might in future be considered

as their best one ever..." - Metal-Observer.com

REMEMBER TO DISMEMBER!

Dismember's Canada Burns Tour 2008 begins this month; a two week assault of pure Swedish death for the country to endure. Still going strong on this year's self-titled album, one of the most well-received albums of the band's career since Dismember helped invent the genre, this is about the best time to see these masters to their thing if you live anywhere in Canada.

10/24/2008 Bar le Magog - Sherbrooke, QC

10/25/2008 Le Bunker - Chicoutimi, QC

10/26/2008 Lánti - Quebec City, QC

10/27/2008 Le National - Montreal, QC

10/28/2008 Maverick - Ottawa, ON

10/29/2008 The Embassy - London, ON

10/30/2008 The Opera House - Toronto, ON

10/31/2008 The Serbian Centre - Sudbury, ON

11/02/2008 Royal Albert - Winnipeg, MB

11/03/2008 *TBA - Regina, SK

11/04/2008 The Mead Hall - Edmonton, AB

11/05/2008 The Thirsty Dog - Calgary, AB

11/06/2008 Rutland Centennial Center - Kelowna, BC

11/07/2008 The Cobait - Vancouver, BC

11/08/2008 Sopranos - Victoria, BC

11/09/2008 Roll a Dome - Prince George, BC

http://www.dismember.se

http://www.myspace.com/dismemberofficial

http://www.regainrecords.com

http://www.myspace.com/regainrecords

OH ABIGAIL!

Abigail Williams will appear as direct support to The Faceless begining October 17. The tour will precede the October 28 release date of In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns, the band's eagerly anticipated full-length debut album.

Produced by James Murphy and featuring contributions from Trym Torson (Emperor/Zyklon), In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns features nine new songs from the band currently featuring keyboardist Ellyllon, bassist Plaguehammer, guitarists Mike Wilson and Bjornthor, drummer Samus with band founder/vocalist Sorceron.

"We couldn't be happier with the results," says vocalist Sorceron in review of the record. "The addition of Trym's legendary drumming and the experience on the production/mixing end that James brought to us has been priceless. This album wholly eclipses everything we've recorded in the past and we can't wait to begin playing the new material live."

Abigail Williams have been a focus of attention for both fans and critics since their formation in Phoenix, Arizona several years back. Kerrang! says, "Abigail Williams have taken fresh-faced metal down the left hand path... the result is obscenely exciting." Blabbermouth adds, "Legend lays a firm foundation for greatness to come." The band have toured the US and Europe several times in the last 18 months and were hand-picked to open for Emperor at their sold-out performance in Los Angeles (House of Blues) in July of 2006. With over 15,000 units sold of the band's 2007 ep, Legend, all eyes and ears are awaiting the first sounds of the new material.

Confirmed dates include:

10/17/2008 Chain Reaction - Anaheim, CA

10/18/2008 The Sets - Phoenix, AZ

10/19/2008 Launchpad - Albuquerque, NM

10/20/2008 Marquis Theatre - Denver, CO

10/21/2008 Club Oz - Wichita, KS

10/22/2008 Rockstar - St. Louis, MO

10/23/2008 Mojoes - Chicago, IL

10/24/2008 Elva's - South Bend, IN

10/25/2008 Skateland - Detroit, MI

10/26/2008 Penny Arcade - Rochester, NY

10/27/2008 Gramercy Theatre - New York, NY

10/28/2008 L'Anti, Quebec - City, QC

10/29/2008 Underworld - Montreal, QC

10/30/2008 Reverb - Toronto, ON

10/31/2008 Peabodys - Cleveland, OH

11/01/2008 Broad Street Ministries - Philadelphia, PA

11/02/2008 Jaxx Nite Club - Springfield, VA

11/03/2008 Volume 11 - Raleigh, NC

11/04/2008 Masquerade - Atlanta, GA

11/05/2008 Crowbar - Tampa, FL

11/07/2008 Java Jazz - Houston, TX

11/08/2008 White Rabbit - San Antonio, TX

11/09/2008 Ridglea Theater - Ft. Worth, TX

11/11/2008 The Rock - Tucson, AZ

11/12/2008 Key Club - Los Angeles, CA

11/13/2008 The Exit - Fresno, CA

11/14/2008 Metro - Oakland, CA

11/15/2008 Riverdale Grange - Roseburg, OR

11/16/2008 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA

11/17/2008 Satyricon - Portland, OR

11/20/2008 The Dome - Bakersfield, CA

11/21/2008 Boardwalk - Sacramento, CA

11/22/2008 Soma - San Diego, CA

For more information contact Dave Brenner (earsplitpr@aol.com) or Paula Hogan (paula@candlelightrecordsusa.com).

http://www.myspace.com/abigailwilliams
http://www.candlelightrecordsusa.com
http://www.myspace.com/candlelightrecordsusa

BILINGUAL AGONIA UPDATE

NEWS ON AGONIA RECORDS: / NOWOŚCI PŁYTOWE I KONCERTY:

ENGLISH VERSION:

ARMAGEDDA first album, THE FINAL WAR APPROACHING, will be re-released on Agonia Records. Bands highly anticipated debut comes re-remixed and re-mestered at Necromorbus Studio (Watain, Adorior, Zarathustra) by Tore Stjerna himself. New coverartwork and layout, made by Eric Masicotte (artwork on Darkthrone albums) will accompany this release.

Format: CD
Release date: 15.09.08
Armagedda Official Myspace

BLOODSWORN album, ALL HYLEST SATAN, will be released on Agonia Records. Long awaited debut features mind numbing artwork and layout from Northgrove, followed by expert mastering made at Q Studios by Tom Horn (Absu, Urgehal, Turbo). Pure Black Metal with no compromises. A real must for fans of Tsjuder, Urgehal, Taake, Gorgoroth and old Troll!

Format: CD
Release date: 15.09.08
Armagedda Official Myspace

CORPUS CHRISTII, Portugals leading Black Metal band, has signed to Agonia Records for one mCD release. The material is called CARVING A PYRAMID OF THOUGHTS and striclty limited to 1.000 copies only. Consists of 4 unreleased tracks and one previously released just on the TORMENTED BELIEF LP version. Ripping, raw and cold metal.

Format: MCD
Release date: 15.09.08.
Corpus Christii Official Myspace

IMPIETY hit the road together with GLORIOR BELLI and SPEARHEAD to tour all over Europ, starting from the end of August by the end of September. THE BESTIAL DOMINATION TOUR 2008 will be also joined by NEFARIUM for 8 concerts.

Tour dates:

29th Aug - An Cruiscin Lan, Cork, Ireland (without Glorior Belli)
30th Aug - Dublin, Ireland (without Glorior Belli)
2nd Sep - Purple Turtle, London, UK (with Witchmaster)
3rd Sep - The Stage, Arnhem, Netherlands (with Scythian)
4th Sep - The Frontline, Ghent, Belgium (with Scythian)
5th Sep - LA RUMEUR, Lille, France (with Nefarium)
6th Sep - Lyons Hall, Lyon, France (with Nefarium and others)
7th Sep - Helvetic Blackmetalclub, Lucerne, Switzerland (with Nefarium)
8th Sep - Marmaja, Milan, Italy (with Nefarium)
9th Sep - Country Star, Padova, Italy (with Nefarium)
10th Sep - Orto bar, Ljubljana, Slovenia
11th Sep - SKC Beograd, Belgrade, Serbia (with Nefarium)
12th Sep - Escape Metalcorner, Vienna, Austria (with Nefarium)
13th Sep - EXIT Chmelnice, Prague, Czech Republic (with Nefarium)
14th Sep - Pod Plama Club, Rzeszów, Poland (with Stillborn and others)
15th Sep - Progresja, Warsaw, Poland
16th Sep - U Bazyla Club, Poznan, Poland (with Strandhogg and Infidel)
17th Sep - Chemiefabrik, Dresen, Germany
18th Sep - The Bunker Club, Chemnitz, Germany
19th Sep - Hellraiser, Leipzig, Germany
20th Sep - Helvete, Oberhausen, Germany (with Purgatory)
21st Sep - Bambi galore Musikclub, Hamburg, Germany (with Purgatory)
22nd Sep - The Rock, Copenhagen, Denmark
23rd Sep - Club Booster, Gothenburg, Sweden
24th Sep - Tantogarden, Stockholm, Sweden
25th Sep - Ravintola Hellä, Tampere, Finland (without Glorior Belli) (with Nifelheim and Watain)26th Sep - S-Osis, Turku, Finland (without Glorior Belli) (with Nifelheim and Watain)
27th Sep - Kulttuuriareena Gloria, Helsinki, Finland (without Glorior Belli) (with Nifelheim and Watain)

Official Impiety Website
Official Impiety Myspace

NEFARIUM will play on the DUNKELHEIT FESTIVAL along with Kampfar, Inquisition, Wyrd, Azaghl, Darkened Nocturn Slaughter, Cult and more. The act will take place beetween 29th and 30th August in Club Fleda, Brno, Czech Republic. After that, on 27 September the band will visit France to play on the SOUTHERN ORDER FEST (with Ad Hominem, Foscor Frangar and guests) in Luynes/Aix en Provence, PACA.

Nefarium Official Website
Nefarium Official Myspace
Dunkelheit Festival Website

Best Regards,
Bartek

For more info and shopping with Agonia Records visit www.agoniarecords.com
For general info, contact: info@agoniarecords.com
For promotional info, contact: promotion@agoniarecords.com

POLSKA WERSJA:

ARMAGEDDA doczekała się reedycji swojego pierwszego albumu THE FINAL WAR APPROACHING. Świetnie przyjęty debiut ukaże się zmiksowany i zmasterowny na nowo w Necromorbus Studio (Watain, Adorior, Zarathustra) przez Tore Stjerna. Album zawiera także nową szatę graficzną, opracowaną przez Erica Massicotte (znany ze swoich projektów dla Darkthrone).
Format: CD
Data wydania: 15.09.08.
Oficjalny Myspace Armageddy

Album ALL HYLEST SATAN zespołu BLOODSWORN, zostanie wydany przez Agonia Records. Długo oczekiwany debiut posiada niezwykłą oprawę graficzną, wykonaną przez Northgrove. Zmasterowany w Q Studios przez Toma Horna, jest obowiązkową pozycją dla fanów Tsjuder, Urgehal, Taake, Gorgoroth i starego Troll. Czysty Black Metal bez kompromisów.
Format: CD
Data wydania: 28.11.08.
Oficjalny Myspace Bloodsworn

CORPUS CHRISTII, czołowy przedstawiciel portugalskiej sceny Black Metalowej, podpisał z Agonia Records papiery na wydanie jednego mCD. Materiał nosi nazwę CARVING A PYRAMID OF THOUGHTS i pojawi się w limitowanej do 1.000 egzemplarzy edycji. Płyta zaiera 4 niewydane dotychczas utwory oraz jeden kawałek pochodzący z TORMENTED BELIEF LP. Zimny, surowy metal.
Format: MCD
Data wydania: 15.09.08
Oficjalny Myspace Corpus Christii

IMPIETY rusza na europejską trasę koncertową razem z GLORIOR BELLI i SPEARHEAD. Podbój starego kontynentu potrwa od 29. sierpnia do 27. września. Na BESTIAL DOMINATION TOUR 2008 będzie można zobaczyć również NEFARIUM. Włoska horda zagra na 8 koncertach.

Daty koncertów:

29 sierpnia - An Cruiscin Lan, Cork, Ireland (bez Glorior Belli)
30 sierpnia - Dublin, Ireland (bez Glorior Belli)
2 września - Purple Turtle, London, UK (z Witchmaster)
3 września - The Stage, Arnhem, Netherlands (z Scythian)
4 września - The Frontline, Ghent, Belgium (z Scythian)
5 września - LA RUMEUR, Lille, France (z Nefarium)
6 września - Lyons Hall, Lyon, France (z Nefarium i innymi)
7 września - Helvetic Blackmetalclub, Lucerne, Switzerland (z Nefarium)
8 września - Marmaja, Milan, Italy (z Nefarium)
9 września - Country Star, Padova, Italy (z Nefarium)
10 września - Orto bar, Ljubljana, Slovenia
11 września - SKC Beograd, Belgrade, Serbia (z Nefarium)
12 września - Escape Metalcorner, Vienna, Austria (z Nefarium)
13 września - EXIT Chmelnice, Prague, Czech Republic (z Nefarium)
14 września - Pod Plama Club, Rzeszów, Poland (z Stillborn i innymi)
15 września - Progresja, Warsaw, Poland
16 września - U Bazyla Club, Poznan, Poland (z Strandhogg i Infidel)
17 września - Chemiefabrik, Dresen, Germany
18 września - The Bunker Club, Chemnitz, Germany
19 września - Hellraiser, Leipzig, Germany
20 września - Helvete, Oberhausen, Germany (z Purgatory)
21 września - Bambi galore Musikclub, Hamburg, Germany (z Purgatory)
22 września - The Rock, Copenhagen, Denmark
23 września - Club Booster, Gothenburg, Sweden
24 września - Tantogarden, Stockholm, Sweden
25 września - Ravintola Hellä, Tampere, Finland (bez Glorior Belli) (z Nifelheim i Watain)
26 września - S-Osis, Turku, Finland (bez Glorior Belli) (z Nifelheim i Watain)
27 września - Kulttuuriareena Gloria, Helsinki, Finland (bez Glorior Belli) (z Nifelheim i Watain)

Oficjalna Strona Impiety
Oficjalny Myspace Impiety

NEFARIUM zagra na DUNKELHEIT FESTIVAL razem z Kampfar, Inquisition, Wyrd, Azaghl, Darkened Nocturn Slaughter, Cult i innymi. Festival odbędzie się 29. i 30. sierpnia w Klubie Fleda, w Brno w Czechach. Natomiast 27. września zespół uda się do Francji, by tam zagarać na SOUTHERN ORDER FEST (z Ad Hominem, Foscor Frangar i gośćmi) w Luynes/Aix en Provence, PACA.Oficjalna Strona Nefarium
Oficjalny Myspace Nefarium
Strona Domowa Dunkelheit Festival

Pozdrawiam,
Bartek
Więcej informacji oraz sklep internetowy na: www.agoniarecords.com
Informacja handlowa, pytania: info@agoniarecords.com
Promocja, kontakt z mediami: promotion@agoniarecords.com
.

NACHTMYSTIUM TO TOUR WITH OPETH AND HIGH ON FIRE.

Nachtmystium will join the first half of the upcoming North American Opeth / High on Fire tour, opening the first half of the tour's shows (with Baroness opening the second half of the tour) beginning in September.

The touring lineup for this tour will include permanent band members Blake Judd and Jeff Wilson, new full-time member Jon Necromancer (ex-Usurper) on bass and Zach Simmons (Goatwhore) drumming, as well as the spaceship psychedelics provided by Sanford Parker (Minsk, Buried At Sea) who recorded and produced the now critically praised Assassins album.

Nachtmystium have been blowing minds with their psychedelic tittie-twist to black metal this entity has progressed to with the release of Assasins: Black Meddle Part 1. Just check the recent covers of Metal Maniacs, Terrorizer and CMJ New Music Monthly as well as the massive coverage by Decibel Magazine, Metalkult.com and the amazingly ongoing list of online and regional press, and the fan response if you need proof...

http://www.myspace.com/nachtmystium

http://www.centurymedia.com

WATAIN TOURS AMERICA. MTV IS HAPPY.

The Werewolves of Satan return! After the infamous US tour with Angelcorpse and Nachtmystium in 2007, Sweden's Black Metal tyrants Watain once again set their dreaded course towards American shores, this time descending not only upon the East but also the South and West coasts.

After the release of the monumentally acclaimed Sworn to the Dark in 2007, Watain have been out on the Fuck the World tour, reaching through Europe, North and South America, leaving a trail of blood, fire and tears behind. A tour which have given them the reputation of being an untamed whirlwind of blood and fire on stage, embodying every aspect of true, dangerous Metal. The Black Metal Magic tour in October (alongside Withered and Book of Black Earth) will constitute the last dates of this monstrous crusade, spearheaded by one of the few bands within the Black Metal genre that still evokes true fear, hysteria, forbidden lust and raging chaos...

WARNING: The performances of Watain are widely known to bring forth and include things that may not be appreciated by the average concert visitor. Unholy, disturbing things that have left scars on many a soul, but that have also enlightened and brought great pleasure to those whose hearts burn with the black fires of forbidden hunger. Watain is Black Metal Magic performed in the old and dreaded tradition. You have been warned.

Watain Black Metal Magic tour 2008

w/Withered, Book of Black Earth

presented by AJNA, Metal Maniacs & BeyondTheDarkHorizon.com

10/03/2008 The Opera House - Toronto, ON
10/04/2008 Katacombes - Montreal, QC

10/07/2008 The Middle East - Boston, MA
10/08/2008 Knitting Factory - New York, NY
10/09/2008 31st St Pub - Pittsburgh, PA
10/10/2008 Peabody's - Cleveland, OH
10/11/2008 Reggie's Rock Club - Chicago, IL

10/12/2008 Vaudeville Mews - Des Moines, IA
10/13/2008 Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom - Denver, CO

10/14/2008 Urban Lounge - Salt Lake City, UT
10/15/2008 Studio Seven - Seattle, WA

10/16/2008 Rotture - Portland, OR
10/17/2008 The Metro - Oakland, CA
10/18/2008 Knitting Factory - Hollywood, CA

10/19/2008 Jumping Turtle - San Marcos, CA
10/20/2008 The Sets - Tempe, AZ
10/21/2008 Gator's - Farmington, NM
10/23/2008 Reno's Chop Shop - Dallas, TX
10/24/2008 Mario's Ballroom - Victoria, TX w/Ritual Killer

10/25/2008 Red 7 - Austin, TX w/Ritual Killer

10/26/2008 Red Dragon - New Orleans, LA w/Ritual Killer

10/28/2008 Brass Mug - Tampa, FL
10/29/2008 Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
10/31/2008 Jaxx - Springfield, VA
11/01/2008 Sterling Hotel - Allentown, PA

http://www.templeofwatain.com

http://www.myspace.com/watainofficial

http://www.theajnaoffensive.com

http://www.myspace.com/theajnaoffensive

THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE!

IRON MAIDEN LIVE IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA 5/26/08 AT CRICKET PAVILION
Well I foreshadowed their set in my last post, just a few days before I would be blessed seeing Maiden a third time. Like fine wine, some things just get better with age. You can argue all you want about which albums are the best and why, and also whether or not the Paul Di'anno or Blaze Bayley material are worth owning. I'll be so bold and say I like ALL their material, and while some stuff is definitely lacking here and there and the band has had some slumps, you can't deny that there may well be no other band with a 30 year or plus history that has so much truly GREAT material. Rush? Nope. Aerosmith? They actually were a rock band once, right? The Rolling Stones? Do you even care that they still release new material when all you want to hear is the classics anyway? Judas Priest? Still has yet to come anywhere near topping "Painkiller" from almost 20 years ago. To make a tired point, these guys have been going at it longer than many of us have been alive, they don't show any signs of slowing down, and judging by the number of young people there (some with their parents, how cool is that!), their rabid fan base is ever-growing. As you may or may not know, this tour is dubbed "Somewhere Back in Time" with no material going beyond the "Fear of the Dark" album. Oddly, "Killers" and "No Prayer For the Dying" were skipped completely (I've griped about not hearing any "Killers" material live in the past).Opening up for around a half hour was Lauren Harris, Steve Harris's uber-smokin' hot daughter and her band. More rock and slightly poppy, she definitely had some stage presence and a ton of energy. Shame on me for not knowing any of her material, as I have tried my best through the years to keep up with the many branches on the Maiden family tree. With about a 30 thirty minute set change, the lights went dim and we were treated to some behind the scenes footage of the tour on giant video screens while "Transylvania" played. And then, just like the old music video, archival film footage of Churchill's Speech heralded "Aces High", about as good a song to kick off the night to as any. You can see the rest of the set list below. Of course the creepy spoken intro to radio and now Guitar Hero favorite "The Number of the Beast" (which even non-fans will often refer to as "the song that goes '666'", it's that recognizable) was present, and it was damn cool to hear "Revelations" live and strange at the same time, since it really is a more obscure song. A group of people, presumably local radio station contest winners or other VIPs, ran onstage to "WOAH-OH-OH, WOAH-OH-OH-OH-OH-OH WOAH-OH-OH, WOAH-OH-OH-OH-OHHHH!", during "Heaven Can Wait", and literally ran off after that verse in the song. I have a special emotional attachment to "Fear of the Dark", the song that was basically my personal anthem through high school. A robotic Eddie mummy "Powerslave"-style peered through the pyramid chamber doors during "Iron Maiden" (seemingly always either the song before the encore or the absolute final song) and the walking Eddie graced the stage to an arena full of cheers during "The Clairvoyant", oddly in his "Somewhere in Time" getup with gun and all, seeing as to how that album differs from the one featuring the song that was playing. 16 songs overall, plenty of backdrop changes as always, and a packed house that I will confidently guess was 99% full. Much to my delight, I didn't see ONE SINGLE AC/DC shirt at all, a good sign that hopefully that plagued is dying off. Granted, I wasn't everywhere at once and there were most likely over 10,000 people attending, but not only did I not see the usual shirt on every third person, I didn't see a frickin' one! Thank hell for small favors! If this tour comes to your neck of the woods, do not dare miss it unless you actually want to kick yourself in the ass until the next time they come 'round! Gentlemen, may you tour, record, and raise hell for another 30 years! (FA)

http://www.ironmaiden.com/

http://www.myspace.com/ironmaiden

www.myspace.com/laurenharrisuk

NEVER HEARD OF THESE GUYS BEFORE...

Iron Maiden kicked off the second leg of their 'Somewhere Back In Time' tour at the Verizon Wireless in San Antonio, Texas Wednesday night. If you were wondering what was on the set-list, here it is:

Aces High
2 Minutes to Midnight
Revelations
The Trooper
Wasted Years
The Number of the Beast
Can I Play With Madness?
Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Powerslave
Heaven Can Wait
Run to the Hills
Fear of the Dark
Iron Maiden
ENCORE:
Moonchild
The Clairvoyant
Hallowed Be Thy Name

http://www.ironmaiden.com/

http://www.myspace.com/ironmaiden

ARCH ENEMY TOURS IT UP.

Fan favorites ARCH ENEMY are coming back to America for a tour – and we couldn't be more excited about it! The death metallers are teaming up with label mates DARK TRANQUILLITY, DIVINE HERESY and FIREWIND for a handful of May dates that you don't want to miss out on.

Vocalist Angela Gossow will be keeping a tour journal on Guitar World's MetalKult website (http://blogs.guitarworld.com/metalkult/) that will feature updates and candid pictures that you won't find anywhere else. The 'Tyranny & Bloodshred Tour' will be the best guitar-shredder package of the year … your face will be melted, be forewarned!

Tyranny and Bloodshred Tour w/Dark Tranquillity, Divine Heresy & Firewind
05/09 The Fillmore – Philadelphia, PA

05/10 Recher Theater – Towson, MD

05/11 Irving Plaza – New York, NY

05/13 Le Medley – Montreal, QC

05/14 L'Imperial – Quebec City, QC

05/16 The Opera House – Toronto, ON

05/17 The Majestic Theater – Detroit, MI

05/19 House of Blues – Chicago, IL

05/20 Station 4 – St. Paul, MN

05/21 The Garrick Centre – Winnipeg, MB

05/23 MacEwan Ballroom – Calgary, AB

05/24 Starlite – Edmonton, AB

05/27 The Showbox – Seattle, WA

05/29 Slim's – San Francisco, CA
05/30 House of Blues – W. Hollywood, CA

Click here for links to purchase tickets!