SAMAELINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: On November 19th , Samael will release Antigod, a new 6-track EP, with "Antigod" as the key song. A single that will be featured on the Swiss band's new album, to be released around March 2011. We talked to Vorph, the band's charismatic frontman, to understand the reasons behind this EP, but also to know more about the upcoming album. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

PAIN OF SALVATIONINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: Daniel Gildenlow is gifted. Daniel Gildenlow is clever. Daniel Gildenlow is funny. Daniel Gildenlow is handsome. So what are the qualities left for us that he would not have? It is not today that this meeting will help you to get the answer. Daniel Gildenlow is the amazing Pain Of Salvation's frontman, however it is in a Transatlantic performance that we met this Apollo. Despite the fact that this interview was 100 % improvised, one cannot but notice that as usual, Daniel does not disappoint.. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

RICTUS GRINKnow what it sounds like to hit a car with a school bus? I do. It sounds like a ring phone the following morning by the owner when it was found out who's car i hit. We played at the Rave a few weeks ago and I parked the bus in back. The Rave was super busy with all the rooms having shows and one of those Mexican birthdays for a young lady turning in to a woman going on up in the ballroom. Naturally I became parked in, but i still thought i could squeeze the bus out to load our gear out after we played. I was right, the bus made it, but only after i knocked Scott's (from Put Her in the Trunk) Chevy HHR out of the way. Nothing is more sinking that the feeling you get when you hear a crunching and mashing sound as you then look out the side window and see a car being dragged next to ya as you back up. I like to thank Scott for being very cool about it. Don't any of you worry, the bus will be fine. A few days later, I am repairing a table with a drill with a phillips tip on it, slip and drive it thru my thumb. good times. But on a good note, i got my teeth fixed finally, the ones i chipped on a mic at the rave when i hit a high note, got light headed, and did a mouth shot on the stupid mic. Lose your rictus cd to your dumb-bitch girlfriend? Your boyfriend using your rictus cd for a coaster? We got ya covered. We uploaded Living the Dream and Resurrection on the Rictus Grin site for free MP3 download now.

THERIONINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: After having quit Therion to join Dimmu Borgir, Snowy Shaw announced that he was leaving the band the very next day to go straight back into Therion. His actions caused general confusion and hasty judgements. Unsurprisingly, Thomas Vikström who is very excited about the latest Sitra Ahra album confirmed that this is one of the most talked about subjects recently. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

MELECHESHINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: As their latest successful album The Epigenesis is released, we were able to have chat with Moloch from Melechesh on the phone. The man who has a PhD in political philosophy and is also the guitarist of the band for the rest of the time discussed the album in detail. He described from the philosophical and spiritual interpretations of the album and song The Epigenesis up to the artwork and writing process. Then the interview ends on the subject of his double life as a musician and a thesis writer... Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

MICHAEL KISKEINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: "Sometimes I need to be pushed a little", Michael Kiske confessed himself several times during the interview, implying that he might have been much less productive if he hadn't been prodded. He notably mentioned the dynamism of Frontier Records and he never loses patience when he's asked whether he'll go back to speed metal. But his answer is definitive : it won't happen, and he no longer likes it. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

MOTORHEADINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: Radio Metal has had the honour of taking part in a little chat with God himself, aka Lemmy Kilmister. But Lemmy, actually, doesn't give a crap about God. Lemmy likes rock'n'roll, the Beatles, Jack Daniels, Third Reich uniforms, being in adverts that pay him enough to make more rock'n'roll, buying Beatles albums, Jack Daniels, Third... Well, you get the gist. These are simple things for a simple man who doesn't fuss about. The proof is in this interview characterised by his sharp humour and friendly spirit. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

PIPEDREAMSINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: Here is one the High Hopes discoveries: Pipedreams. They play hardcore and it's our duty to support artists with a strong will and determined to go on in the such hard musical industry of today. So we can't better do than advising you to watch to their last video directed by Dagoba's last videos director, Arnaud Lalanne : "Lost In Memories". Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

MR. BIG MR. BIG is back to announce their highly anticipated new studio album entitled « What If… » on February 8, 2011 on Frontiers Records. «What If… » is MR. BIG’s first all original album since the reunion of the four original members, Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan and Pat Torpey back in early 2009. Sixteen years after the release of « Hey Man », the new recording is set to bring back MR. BIG on the height of the current Hard Rock scene. Guitarist Paul Gilbert said: “This is the first MR. BIG album I have been a part of, since fourteen years and it was done in a snap. It was fun and we had really a good time in making this one”. Continues Billy Sheehan “It’s so great to be back with Paul, Eric and Pat too. We wrote this record like we did in the old days for the first 2 records. Jamming together in the same room to write songs”. Pat Torpey adds ““Some of the recording process is different now from what we were used to in the old times. But I think this record really managed to capture the performances of the band, not of the individual musicians”. Eric Martin concludes: “I like to compare this to the first album, when we just got to know each other in a reharsal studio and cut it in 8 or 9 days. This is like chapter 2. We had so many years, so many records and so many things behind us. Now this feels like a beautiful brand new chapter starting for all of us”. « What If… » was produced by Kevin Shirley (Aerosmith, Rush, Iron Maiden) and the release will be followed by a World Tour which will kick off in South America in March and will hit Europe in early summer. Formed in 1988, Mr. Big forged its place in hard rock history by combining trademark "shredding" musicianship with awesome vocal harmonies. The original line-up – vocalist Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, bassist Billy Sheehan, and drummer Pat Torpey. Mr. Big produced numerous hit songs that ranged across a wide array of rock genres – be it ballads, heavy metal, or blues rock. Their hits included "To Be With You" (Billboard Hot 100 number one single in 15 countries for weeks, in 1991, propelling the band the band to huge international success and record sales in the multi-millions), "Wild World", Green-Tinted sixties Mind", "Just Take My Heart", and a host of heavy metal songs that were played mostly during their live performances: "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy", "Addicted to that Rush", "Colorado Bulldog", and "Take Cover". “What If…” will be released in a special edition CD + DVD in digipak, regular CD, vinyl and digital download and in a limited edition luxury box including the CD, DVD, LP and exclusive memorabilia. “What If…” tracklisting includes: Undertow; American Beauty; Stranger In My Life; Nobody Takes the Blame; Still Ain’t Enough for Me; Once Upon a Time; As Far As I Can See; All The Way Up; I Won’t Get In My Way; Around The World; I Get The Feeling; Unforgiven (exclusive bonus track for Europe / North America – not on vinyl edition). The DVD will include the videoclips of “Undertow” and “All the Way Up” plus a documentary “Making of” the album including interviews and exclusive behind the scenes features of the four members. (VQPR)

SOULFLYINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: Max Cavalera can be proud of Soulfly's latest album : Omen is a damn fine album which shows just how much Max has a knack for finding killer riffs. And he isn't about to stop, since he's working on the follow up to Cavalera Conspiracy's album, due next year. Given the quality of the first album, needless to say, we can't wait to hear the next one. And Max's excitement isn't gonna tame the fans' impatience. With so much going on, we wanted to check in on this iconic musician who has lent Radio Metal a few minutes of his time to answer our questions. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

KELLY KEELING The Serge Entertainment Group LLC, has relaunched a redesign of the Kelly Keeling web site at http://www.kellykeeling.net . The site is a way to keep the rock vocalist'/multi-instrumentalist's name, music and merchandise available to his friends and fans. The complete redesign was created by Gary Kelley at Creative Ninjas who worked closely with Serge Entertainment Group owner Sandy Serge to develop a new Kelly Keeling logo and complete web site overhaul. "I did this for the fans," remarks Serge. "To help them remain aware of the great music Keeling has created throughout his lengthy and versatile career. So far, the response has been extremely positive." In 2009, Surgeland Records, a division of Serge Entertainment Group, released Paris Keeling's "End of Ride Revisited", a CD project featuring Keeling and songwriter Marty Paris. Kelly Keeling commenced his career in music over 25 years ago at the age of 14 in Lafayette, Louisiana. In 1990, he joined the rock band Baton Rouge as a vocalist and guitar player, and shortly thereafter the band was signed by Ahmet Ertegan to Atlantic Records. Their album Shake Your Soul was released followed by Lights Out on the Playground a year later. That same year, Keeling was involved with his first platinum album, Alice Cooper’s Hey Stoopid, co-writing the song "Snakebite". In addition to Alice Cooper, Keeling has recorded, performed and/or toured with such distinguished musicians/bands as Roger Daltrey, Dokken, George Lynch, Yngwie Malmsteen, Carmine Appice, Vinny Appice, Tony Franklin, Denny Laine, John Norum, Erik Norlander, Heaven and Earth, and Michael Schenker. In 2005, Keeling released his first solo album Giving Sight to the Eye. He also contributed to the Michael Schenker Group’s 25th anniversary CD Tales Of Rock & Roll and performed as lead vocalist on the debut Screamin' Lords CD Long Live Me. Keeling also toured with Trans-Siberian Orchestra in 2006 and 2007 as a lead vocalist. In 2008, Keeling toured with Don Dokken opening for Queensryche, and recorded an album with experimental band O'2L featuring Jane Mangini and Al Pitrelli. Keeling's band Baton Rouge reunited for a show at Rocklahoma in 2009 and the Paris Keeling CD "End of Ride Revisited" was released. Recently, Keeling has delved into new territory collaborating with songwriter Marc Zimmerman to release a children's CD. For more information about Kelly Keeling, please visit the web site at http://www.kellykeeling.net. (Serge Entertainment PR)

PHIL CAMPBELLINTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: As we entered the backstage area, we are not greeted by the Phil Campbell we are expecting to meet, but rather the perfect image of a rock star in all of its glory and excesses. Ironically, we were intending on asking Phil about the fact that "Lemmy: The Movie" breaks down some of these rock'n'roll cliches. The interview was going well until we asked what seemed to be a somewhat insignificant question but Phil Campbell dropped a bombshell answer. Interview. Check out our site at Radio Metal.

DEATH ON TWO WHEELS Atlanta-based rock band DEATH ON TWO WHEELS will premier two songs world-wide in the new movie THE VIOLENT KIND at Sundance 2010. The featured songs are Calling Us All Back Home and Two Dollar Bills from their current release SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND FATE on The Ghost Umbrella Records. DO2W, featuring Trae Vedder – lead vocals, guitar, Andrew Knox – organ, piano, vocals, Paul Doss – lead guitar, David Fountain – bass, vocals and Greg Neel – drums, vocals --have been busy gearing up for their new EP, AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME to be released on Tuesday Feb. 16, 2010, and with recording the full album to be completed mid-year. Award-winning filmmakers The Butcher Brothers (Mitchell Altieri and Phil Flores; THE HAMILTONS) will world premiere THE VIOLENT KIND at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival on January 25, 2010. The dramatic feature horror film is produced by Michael Ferris Gibson, Jeffrey Allard (TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE), alongside Andy Gould (HALLOWEEN), Malek Akkad (HALLOWEEN), Jeremy Platt, and executive producer K’Dee Miller. To celebrate the release of The Violent Kind, DO2W is offering both songs for FREE here! Check out more on this band at their myspace. (VQPR)

16 SECOND STARE LOUDER, HARDER, and HEAVIER than their debut, 16 SECOND STARE breaks new sonic ground with their new self-titled album releasing April 27 on Goomba Music. With the aggressive sound of their new self-titled record, 16 SECOND STARE is ready to take their place in the vanguard of the international metal scene. Fueled by the ferocious vocals of Chris Davis, who stepped out from behind his drum kit to prowl the stage like a madman, and driven by the onslaught of guitarist Angry Tim Shanks, the band has been winning legions of fans with its uncompromising stage show. During the summer of 2009, on the road with Crüefest 2, 16 SECOND STARE showed what they were made of winning over huge crowds with their radical onslaught. Now they're unleashing an equally radical album. 16 SECOND STARE took a year to make and, during that time, the band underwent a transformation. "I started singing lead and everything clicked into place,' says singer and drummer Chris Davis. “We used to think about radio play, but this time decided to go for the jugular. We're going to get right up in your face and if people like it, that's fine. If not, fuck'em. Anyone who's seen us live knows we kick ass, so we decided to kick ass in the studio too. Making Chris the singer was the best move we ever made.” Standout tracks on 16 SECOND STARE include the current single, Bonnie and Clyde, a heavy stomping rocker, with the grinding guitars of Shanks complimenting the processed vocals Davis lays down over his own brutal backbeat. The shrieking harmonies of Davis and Shanks add another sinister element to the mix. Bonnie and Clyde is already being played on Sirius Satellite's Octane channel, AOL's Extreme Alt Rock station, and is climbing the Media Base Active Rock chart. For more information go to 16 Second Stare or Myspace. (VQPR)

EXTREME This recording captures EXTREME at the peak of their game with a renewed enthusiasm led by Gary Cherone’s spellbinding stage performance and powerful vocals, Nuno Bettencourt’s ferocious guitar, Pat Badger’s flawless bass and Kevin Figueiredo’s pounding drums not to mention the Extreme trademark, spot on, back-up vocals. Video trailer here: Extreme OR Youtube. This brilliant performance was recorded on the last night of their tour at the House of Blues August 8, 2009 in EXTREME’s hometown of Boston, MA . “We wanted to do something really special for our hometown fans that were there for us since the beginning… the club days,” states Nuno. “It was the last night of the tour and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than by bringing it back to where it all started… Boston.” (VQPR)

JOHN 5 THE ART OF MALICE is John 5’s 5th album to date and will be released May 11th on 60 Cycle Hum/Rocket Science Ventures. THE ART OF MALICE exhibits John 5’s incredible diversity as a writer and guitarist pulling from the pages of his life. “It is a completely different vibe than my other albums,” explains John 5. “The title is derived from the saying “kill then with kindness” like taking a good approach to still obtain a dark result.” The album also further showcases him to be one of the most technically advanced guitarists in the business today. Fans of driving rhythms and ear-catching, over the top, guitar work will keep this in their CD player for months on end. This album has everything that the fans come to expect, chicken pickin, shred, metal and Spanish guitar. The song titles vary as vignettes into John 5’s life, such as the title JW which are John 5’s initials and what his father had called him growing up. Ya Dig comes from working with the master or front-men David Lee Roth and also features Billy Sheehan on bass – “That is Dave’s saying and it fits the music.” John 5 has created a worldwide following as a widely respected guitarist with such platinum artists as Marilyn Manson, David Lee Roth, and Rob Halford and currently Rob Zombie. John 5 has taken his notoriety to the next level with his solo masterpieces that many guitar fans described as “the guitar playing of the new millennium”. John 5’s eclectic influences combine for a truly unique guitar oriented record that once again sets new standards in the genre. For more information visit John 5 or Myspace. (VQPR)

NUNO BETTENCOURT NUNO BETTENCOURT PERFORMED WITH RHIANNA ON AMERICAN IDOL! See The Video on Youtube. (VQPR)

GARY HOEY Gary Hoey takes the cover of POLLSTAR Magazine and feature as POLLSTAR uncovers the un-sung shredder. It is a tale of reinvention and how Hoey takes it and creates it for the fans. Get an inside view of all things Hoey and learn the ropes from a true Guitar Master. With a collection of 16 albums and five top 20 Billboard hits, it’s clear to see why Gary Hoey is listed in the top 100 greatest guitar players of all time. Whether Hoey plays rock, blues, surf or Christmas, Hoey’s command of each style makes his live show one of the most exciting on the circuit today. For more information go to Gary Hoey or Myspace. (VQPR)

PAT TRAVERS Revered blues/rock guitar guru Pat Travers is back out and touring in 2010 in support of his new studio release FIDELIS on Alexus Records. This hard rocking blues masterpiece is Travers long awaited studio album in the true Pat Travers signature style, in your face and full of big guitars. Being the first studio album in 5 years, Travers has put heart and soul into every note he recorded. “Ask Me Baby” is the first release that will hit the airwaves in a matter of time. The current line-up for the Pat Travers band is Pat Travers (Guitar/vox), Kirk McKim (Lead Guitar / Backing Vox), Sean "The Cannon" Shannon (Drums) and Rodney O'Quinn (Bass / Backing Vocals). For more information Pat Travers. (VQPR)

PAT TRAVERS Never before seen video KING OF THE LADIES from EXTREME’S studio album Saudades De Rock premiers live on AOL Music and Noisecreep on April 28th at 11am EST - Noise Creep or AOL Music. This is one of four videos created and directed by EXTREME guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt. The video is from their critically acclaimed 2009 studio release Saudades De Rock, which released upon their reunion after a 13 year hiatus. KING OF THE LADIES is also 1 of 4 bonus videos on their new live CD and DVD release TAKE US ALIVE out May 4 on Frontiers Records USA. TAKE US ALIVE captures EXTREME at the peak of their game with a renewed enthusiasm led by Gary Cherone’s spellbinding stage performance and powerful vocals, Nuno Bettencourt’s ferocious guitar, Pat Badger’s flawless bass and Kevin Figueiredo’s pounding drums not to mention the Extreme trademark, spot on, back-up vocals. This brilliant performance was recorded on the last night of their tour at the House of Blues August 8, 2009 in EXTREME’s hometown of Boston, MA . “We wanted to do something really special for our hometown fans that were there for us since the beginning… the club days,” states Nuno. “It was the last night of the tour and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than by bringing it back to where it all started… Boston.” (VQPR)

16 SECOND STARE 16 Second Stare is sweeping the airwaves on over 50 Clear Channel radio stations. The May round of NEW! - Clear Channels new program - is now live! 16 Second Stare has been selected as an Artist to Watch – Rock! The programs promotion is also live on 50+ station websites. With the aggressive sound of their new self-titled record, 16 SECOND STARE is ready to take their place in the vanguard of the international metal scene. Fueled by the ferocious vocals of Chris Davis, who stepped out from behind his drum kit to prowl the stage like a madman, and driven by the onslaught of guitarist Angry Tim Shanks, the band has been winning legions of fans with its uncompromising stage show. During the summer of 2009, on the road with Crüefest 2, 16 SECOND STARE showed what they were made of winning over huge crowds with their radical onslaught. Now they're unleashing an equally radical album. Check out their second single “23” right here! For more information go to 16 Second Stare. (VQPR)

ASIA ASIA's critically acclaimed rock track "An Extraordinary Life," was chosen as the soundtrack for promotional spots announcing the 2010 season of AMERICA'S GOT TALENT. This show is among the most popular entertainment reality shows of all time. Last season the show peaked at the #1 position in overall viewership. AMERICA’S GOT TALENT producers specifically sought out the rights to use the famed ASIA song, which was written by members John Wetton and Geoff Downes. The track was recorded shortly after Wetton survived open heart surgery, in 2007. The song celebrates "carpe diem": each person's ability to seize each day, living life to the fullest. The promotional spots for America ’s Got Talent featuring “An Extraordinary Life,” begin airing on NBC in prime time, Wednesday, May 26th. English band ASIA recently released OMEGA, their fifth album since 1982's multi-platinum world best-selling debut, and the third release since reuniting in 2006. The band will launch a new North American tour in August, 2010. The already well-received album OMEGA is distributed by Frontiers Records. EMI released ASIA’s best-selling album Phoenix [under license from Frontiers Record], containing the hit “An Extraordinary Life”. Both albums are available at Amazon and other fine retailers. The original members of ASIA are rock n’ roll superstars Geoff Downes (keyboards), Steve Howe (guitars), Carl Palmer (drums) and John Wetton (lead vocals and bass). More about the band can be found at Asia. (VQPR)

WHITESNAKE WHITESNAKE have officially announced that bassist URIAH DUFFY & drummer CHRIS FRAZIER are going their separate ways from the band after a fun filled & successful journey together. WHITESNAKE wish URIAH & CHRIS every success in pursuing their individual musical careers & express their sincere gratitude for the exceptional contribution they both made to the legacy of the band. WHITESNAKE are proud to welcome drummer/vocalist extraordinaire, BRIAN TICHY. WHITESNAKE are currently in the studio writing & recording the follow up to their award winning 'GOOD TO BE BAD' album, which is expected to be released throughout the world on the FRONTIERS label in the Spring of 2011 to coincide with their return to touring. At this time WHITESNAKE are still exploring their options for the position of new Bass Player/Singer. To keep updated on WHITESNAKE visit Whitesnake or Frontiers. (VQPR)

STEVE VAI It’s not uncommon for a musician to record more work than they release. In Vai’s case, the Grammy® award-winning guitarist has a digital ocean of snippets in various degrees of completion. Some are leftovers from assorted sessions, projects that were never completed, soundcheck jams, or songs that were specific to a particular venture. “There are enough lonely, unreleased notes in my world to fill an infinity shelf,” says Vai. In between composing new scores for his upcoming performance with the North Netherlands Symphony Orchestra, Vai has transformed these snippets into full, lush songs and these rarities are being released as a series of single digital downloads called VaiTunes. Each release comes with a PDF booklet containing detailed notes about the creation of the song, the story behind the recording, and gear involved. The latest release from the series, “The Moon and I” evolved from a soundcheck jam in Athens, Greece in the spring of 2000. The PDF liner notes allow the listener to follow Vai as he birthed the chord changes in Greece and subsequently watered and fertilized the song ten years later half way around the world in his Encino studio. Equally fascinating is the story of the guitar used to finish “The Moon and I.” Under unique circumstances, Vai recently purchased an original Desert Yellow Ibanez JEM 777DY guitar, a guitar he designed in 1987, from a local pawnshop and named the guitar “Moon.” Vai plans to offer one track every month or so, each one representing a unique moment in his personal musical history. The releases can be purchased via iTunes and other digital music providers worldwide through Vai Tunes or Steve Vai. (VQPR)

FLAMETAL Benjamin Woods and his monster creation FLAMETAL will release their latest masterpiece “HEAVY MELLOW” July 6th on Flametal Records. This album embraces the metal-works of SLAYER, MEGADETH, KISS and the SCORPIONS to name a few. "This is a Flamenco Guitar tribute album to some of the great Metal masterpieces,” says Woods. “It is definitely a different album from the other FLAMETAL releases and is more of a solo effort that is a very powerful to play live. Although the songs are very dark, everyone gets it, even your Mom." Woods is a new breed of virtuoso and a speed metal guitarist from the start. By a twist of fate Woods gear was stolen by a junkie, leaving him with only a Spanish Guitar to practice on. This was the defining moment that ignited a passion for Flamenco Guitar. After spending years studying and performing authentic Flamenco, Woods created the genre-bending group FLAMETAL, earning him an international reputation as the master of Flamenco and Metal. Playing Metal without a pick, or distortion would seem impossible to most, but through his training and creativity, Woods is the first and only musician to successfully combine real Flamenco and Metal. Here he pays tribute to some of his favorite metal tunes, played in the Flamenco idiom, with traditional accompaniment. "I had to use all my Flamenco knowledge to play these metal favorites without losing the integrity so I picked great songs with great melodies. On some songs I sped up the tempo, dropped a verse or created a new solo version only slightly changing the arrangements,” explains Woods. “The King Diamond song was a great challenge to put into the 12/8 time Flamenco rhythm of Bulerias, and the solo was definitely fun, but a bitch to learn on the Spanish guitar. The Megadeth tune was difficult to create melodies from Mustaine's vocal grunts and growls, but cool how it fit into the slithery rhythm of Tanguillos. I was very fortunate to have Steve Stevens do some nylon and electric guitar solos on my original tune "Cursed". It's a raw preview of what the next original FLAMETAL album will be with many great guest artists featured." Woods has built a substantial following through his years of touring and recording as “HEAVY MELLOW” unveils him to be a master musician with deep musical roots in metal, classical and Flamenco guitar. Woods is also one of the only American Flamenco guitarists to ever grace the pages of Spain's national newspaper El Pais, and Spain's number one Flamenco publication ALMA 100. Woods raw energy combined with exotic and sophisticated acoustic playing and the talent of a new-generation shred-master is a much needed breath of fresh air to the instrumental rock genre. FLAMETAL'S new album "HEAVY MELLOW" is available for download ton itunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. For more information visit Flametal or Myspace (VQPR)

YOSO The term “Super-Group” describes a band rising out of two of the most creative bands of the past 30 years: YOSO is formed out of TOTO’s brilliant lead vocalist Bobby Kimball and the creative force of former YES members, Tony Kaye and Billy Sherwood, thus equalling the magic of YES with the voice of TOTO. However, YOSO is much more than a combination of two classic rock groups. The band’s debut album “Elements” will debut July 2nd in Europe and July 23rd in the USA on Frontiers Records. This long awaited release comes with a bonus live CD where the band plays some old and new classics. This musical blend presents a fascinating combination of the sound of YES ("90125"/"Big Generator" era) and TOTO, with a very interesting and original sound that truly encompasses the styles. Even with the band's two diverse heritages, YOSO intends to become its own identifiable entity in a very short time. YOSO’s mission is to make the next decade one where their music will stand the test of time holding up alongside their classic rock roots. YOSO was started when I suggested to Bobby Kimball we should write some new music and form a band,” recalls Sherwood. “We had been working together on various tribute projects that I was producing and one thing lead to another. Before too long we had 5 songs in the can and were well on our way to making a record. That is when we started thinking seriously about taking it to the next level. Once there was a few songs underway the concept grew into the band we now have, " YOSO ". YOSO line-up was later rounded out with two amazingly gifted musicians: Johnny Bruhns as the guitarist and background vocalist and Scott Conner on drums, percussion and background vocals. “Elements” tracklisting includes: Yoso; Path To Your Heart; Where You’ll Stay; Walk Away; The New Revolution; To Seek The Truth; Only One; Close The Curtain; Won’t End Tonight; Come This Far; Time To Get Up; Return To Yesterday. Bonus live CD: Yoso; Rosanna; Owner of a Lonely Heart; Walk Away; Good For You; Yes Medley (Yours Is No Disgrace/Heart of the Sunrise/South Side of the Sky/Starship Trooper/I’ve Seen All Good People); To Seek the Truth; Hold The Line; Cinema; Gift With a Golden Gun; White Sister. For more information visit Yoso Myspace, Frontiers or Frontiers Myspace. (VQPR)

PAUL GILBERT Paul Gilbert unleashes his 3rd instrumental masterpiece on Shrapnel Records, August 3rd to the world. “FUZZ UNIVERSE is my third guitar instrumental album,” explains Gilbert. “Being a fan of pop music and rock bands, I am a reluctant convert into the art of instrumental rock music. But after touring with Joe Satriani’s G3, I witnessed firsthand the power of the electric guitar to take center stage and rock the audience. Playing my guitar-driven songs live was a blast! This discovery led to a huge increase in my touring as a solo artist. In the last couple of years, I've played nearly 150 shows all over the world, with my guitar leading the way.” FUZZ UNIVERSE title is inspired by Gilbert being so immersed in the world of guitar it made him realize that he lives in a FUZZ UNIVERSE. “Every generation of guitar players has their own terminology for the rock guitar sound: Distortion, Overdrive, Gain, Crunch, Saturation, Drive etc. For me, the word is FUZZ”. Gilbert’s extraordinary talent of arranging/composing lends to the new music’s fresh melodies for songs that shows his true diversity and only in Gilberts words will you understand: "On FUZZ UNIVERSE, I think I've taken a giant step closer to the ultimate rock guitar sound and playing of my dreams. I've used many of my signature techniques from RACER X and MR. BIG, but twisted them into new chords, grooves, and emotions. As always, my influences are diverse and not what you might expect from a "heavy metal" artist. While I was writing the songs for FUZZ UNIVERSE, I was immersing myself in Bulgarian Female Choir music, Baroque lute and violin pieces, Johnny Cash songs about trains, cows, mules, and mining coal, the Bee Gees, and Ronnie James Dio. I mix all this into my head, and out came endless new ideas for my guitar to chew on. After several months of being locked in my writing room, I gathered my touring band together and headed to the studio. Jeff Bowders played drums. Craig Martini played bass. Emi Gilbert (my wife) played keyboards. And I bent the guitar strings until I couldn't play anymore. As usual, there are no dramatic stories here. No heroin overdoses, motorcycle accidents, celebrity divorces, or band-member boxing matches. The emotion, drama, and power are all in the music. That is the universe that I want to live in”. Paul Gilbert is regarded internationally as one of the greatest players in the industry. Starting his recording career with Shrapnel Records as a teenager in the late 80’s, Gilbert remains one of the most active guitarists from the original shred guitar scene. His rise to Platinum success includes a number one song with Mister Big, and cult status as founding member of the legendary and highly successful underground progressive metal band Racer X. For more information click on Paul Gilbert. (VQPR)

LYNCH MOB James Lomenzo (Megadeth, Black Label Society) joins Lynch Mob for their summer tour in support of their current release “Smoke and Mirrors” on Frontiers Records. The band line-up for this tour consists of George Lynch (shred master), Oni Logan (vox), and Brian Tichy (time-keeper). After seventeen long years singer Oni Logan and guitar wizard George Lynch found their way back together and again show their amazing abilities in some killer new Hard Rock songs.” I would say this new record "Smoke and Mirrors", is the record we should have put out as a follow up to "Wicked Sensation"...better late than never I guess...”, says Lynch presenting the new record. Lynch Mob was formed by George Lynch, one of the few genuine guitar heroes of substance to emerge from the Los Angeles scene, after DOKKEN split up in 1989. The band’s first album” Wicked Sensation” went on to sell over 500,000 units in the US and featured the talents of singer Oni Logan, Anthony Esposito on bass and another former DOKKEN member Mick Brown on drums. After a tour in support of Queensryche, Logan opted out, with Robert Mason taking his place on the follow up self titled release. However Lynch and Brown eventually returned to Dokken releasing 2 studio albums until he left again in late 1997 putting together a several new incarnations of Lynch Mob and exploring new sounds with different projects. Get back to real Rock with Lynch Mob’s new album “Smoke and Mirrors” - For more information visit George Lynch or Myspace. (VQPR)

TWISTED SISTER: TWISTED SISTER frontman Dee Snider and his family wife Suzette, and their four kids; Jesse, Shane, Cody and Cheyenne have signed on to do their own reality show, "Growing Up Twisted", for A&E, set to air later this year. The show is in production on Long Island, mainly in the Stony Brook area around the Sniders' home. (HeadbangerNYC)

ANTHRAX: Joey Belladonna has officially rejoined ANTHRAX. Belladonna will make his first appearance with ANTHRAX this summer when the band joins METALLICA, SLAYER, and MEGADETH — the "Big Four" founding bands of the thrash genre — to co-headline a series of Sonisphere Festivals in ten European cities, as well as playing a handful of ANTHRAX-headlined shows (HeadbangerNYC)

HELLYEAH: The band featuring members of MUDVAYNE, PANTERA and NOTHINGFACE — is putting the finishing touches on its sophomore album, "Stampede", for a July 13 release via Epic Records. Once the record has been completed, the band will hit the road for a worldwide tour throughout the summer. (HeadbangerNYC)

EDDIE VAN HALEN: Guitar World has just published a new book, "Guitar World Presents Van Halen: Eddie Van Halen In His Own Words", which is in stock and shipping now at Van Halen Store (although the official release date is April 15). The book contains three early never-before-published interviews with Eddie Van Halen which were conducted in 1978, 1979 and 1980. Additionally, 10 classic interviews with Edward from the pages of Guitar World magazine are included. "This collection of classic and new interviews with the great Edward tells the real story behind his relationship with both David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar. (HeadbangerNYC)

HEADBANGER NYC: HeadbangerNYC.com has been served legal documents at the request of Mattel, Inc. to remove the flame logo from the HeadbangerNYC.com website. Mattel, Inc. feels the flame logo on the HeadbangerNYC.com website infringes on the Hot Wheels logo. HeadbangerNYC.com has stated that it apologizes if any children misinterpreted our logo and tried to purchase t0y cars from our website. The legal document can be read below. http://www.headbangernyc.com/infringement.html (HeadbangerNYC)

OZZY OSBOURNE: A Manhattan federal judge ruled yesterday (Thursday, February 25) that Ozzy Osbourne can proceed with his lawsuit against guitarist Tony Iommi over use of the BLACK SABBATH name. Ozzy filed a lawsuit against Iommi in May 2009, claiming that Iommi illegally took sole ownership of the band's name in a filing with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Osbourne is suing Iommi for a 50 percent interest in the "Black Sabbath" trademark, along with a portion of Iommi's profits from use of the name.The Manhattan federal court suit also charges that Osbourne's "signature lead vocals" are largely responsible for the band's "extraordinary success," noting that its popularity plummeted during his absence from 1980 through 1996.(HeadbangerNYC)

STEVEN ADLER: GUNS N' ROSES drummer Steven Adler has set "My Appetite for Destruction: Sexs, and Drugz, and Guns N' Roses" as the title of his tell-all biography, which is presently scheduled for a June 22 release. (HeadbangerNYC)

BRIAN POSEHN: Comedian/actor Brian Posehn will release his brand new stand-up comedy album, "Fart And Wiener Jokes", on April 27 via Relapse Records. The follow-up to his "Live In: Nerd Rage" debut was recorded at various live gigs across the U.S. during 2009. The record will also include two musical tracks,"More Metal Than You" and a cover of the KENNY ROGERS classic "The Gambler". Posehn recorded these songs with the help of a number of "metal" all-stars, including Scott Ian (ANTHRAX),Jamey Jasta (HATEBREED, KINGDOM OF SORROW), Mark Morton (LAMB OF G0D), John Tempesta (EX0DUS, THE CULT), Russ Parrish (STEEL PANTHER). (HeadbangerNYC)

GUNS N' ROSES: Guns N' Roses fans were forced to take sides in the battle between Axl Rose and Slash after security at a recent GNR show banned fans from wearing Slash gear inside the show. It all went down at the GNR show in Canada last Wednesday. Concert security informed fans that they were required to turn their Slash t-shirts inside out .... and leave their top hats outside. Members of the concert security team confirmed the marching orders were passed down from a producer for the band. A few fans took the high road and went home ... but most just sucked it up and did what they were told. (HeadbangerNYC)

SAMMY HAGAR: Sammy Hagar has opened his Cabo Wabo Cantina on the Las Vegas Strip. The 15,000-square-foot Cantina brings the best of Cabo San Lucas to Vegas, with its prime location at the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Cabo Wabo combines Hagar's signature blend of killer margaritas, flavorful Mexican food and rock 'n' roll style, where it is never uncommon to catch the Red Rocker grabbing a bite to eat or jammin' out a live set on stage. (HeadbangerNYC)

TAKE BACK THE HORNS: Motivated by what he calls the "systematic abuse" of the metal horns, heavy metal icon and frontman for the legendary band TWISTED SISTER, Dee Snider has launched a web site dedicated to the reclamation of our iconic heavy metal symbol, TakeBackTheHorns.com. TakeBackTheHorns.com is dedicated to not only raise awareness of this abuse, but the site has been designed to inform and educate the reader on the history and proper use of the metal horns. Dee Snider hopes it will unify the massive, heavy metal community in the fight to stop the metal horns' further exploitation and degradation. TakeBackTheHorns.com also contains a section for visitors to post photos of abusers of the horns and an interactive "Metal or Not" rating system to help define and decide the proper usage of the iconic symbol. (HeadbangerNYC)

THROWDOWN: California's THROWDOWN entered the studio to record a cover version of an as-yet-undisclosed PANTERA song for a forthcoming "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott tribute album. The collection, which is being put together by a U.K.-based metal magazine to coincide with the five-year anniversary of Dimebag's passing, is expected to include the following cuts, among others: MACHINE HEAD - "F-king Hostile"; CHIMAIRA - "S1aughtered"; EVILE - "Cemetery Gates"; THROWDOWN - [to be announced]. (HeadbangerNYC)

TICKETMASTER: Ticketmaster Entertainment Inc. and its current chief executive paid a ticket broker to sell tickets at more than their normal face values to concerts by VAN HALEN, JOURNEY and other acts, according to a lawsuit the broker has filed against the ticketing giant. While the underlying lawsuit is a breach-of-contract allegation, the alleged events it describes highlight the broader importance of ticket reselling for the concert industry. (HeadbangerNYC)

OZZY OSBOURNE: Hachette Audio has set an October 22 U.K. release date for the audiobook version of Ozzy Osbourne's long-awaited memoir, "I Am Ozzy". The book, which was originally slated to arrive almost two years ago but was delayed twice, will be published in the U.K. on October 1. http://www.amazon.co.uk/I-am-Ozzy-Osbourne/dp/1405502525. "I Am Ozzy, The Autobiography" chronicles the star's humble beginnings in the U.K. to his current position as international music and TV celebrity. A U.S. publication date has yet to be announced. (HeadbangerNYC)

VAN HALEN: According to a report in The Wall Street Journal, VAN HALEN netted an extra $1 million dollars in the fall of 2007 when up to 500 of the best seats to each of about 20 of the band's concerts were pulled from the Ticketmaster system and passed directly to ticket scalpers. The brokers allegedly kept 30% of the marked-up sale price for themselves, and the remaining 70% was divided among Ticketmaster, the band and its handlers. The move, according to the report, was part of Ticketmaster's initiative, codenamed "Project Showtime," to capture a piece of the sky-high prices charged by scalpers, which can exceed a ticket's face value by hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. They could then compete against Live Nation's nascent ticketing business by offering to share the scalpers' revenue with entertainers and venues. (HeadbangerNYC)