For three decades, singer Wade Black has triumphed and stayed metal recording and touring internationally in bands such as Crimson Glory, Leatherwolf, Seven Withces, Leash Law and Chalice of Sin. Now, Wade Black is ready to celebrate 25 years of the monster Crimson Glory album ‘Astronomica’ with a new album of original material!
The new album will be produced by the master of metal, Chris Boltendahl (Grave Digger, Chris Boltendahl’s Steelhammer) for release in 2024. Join ASTRONOMICA in March as the band blasts off with their show at the mighty UP THE HAMMERS festival on March 7th, 8th and 9th in Athens, Greece!
Today we proudly announce the signing of a multi-album deal with Wade Black’s ASTRONOMICA and welcome the band to the ROAR! Rock of Angels roster.
Wade Black’s ASTRONOMICA: Wade Black – Vocals Rich Marks – Lead Guitar (War of Thrones, Vivaldi Metal Project, Holmes and Slice) Kyle Sokol – Bass (Nocturnus AD, Apeiron Bound) Ryan Bales – Rhythm Guitar (Avenging Benji) Luca Caracciolo – Drums (Halcyon Way, Materdea, Kee Marcelo)
Death metal outfit CRYPTA have released a new lyric video for the staggering song “Stronghold”, cut from their fresh new album, Shades of Sorrow! Released in August, CRYPTA’s sophomore album has stormed the charts globally (#23 Official German Album Charts, #17 Official Rock & Metal Album Charts UK, #5 Top New Artist Albums & #7 Current Hard Music Albums USA, #4 Hard Music Albums CAN, and many more), and received outstanding reception from fans and critics alike, cementing the band’s standing as one of the rising forces in today’s death metal scene.
Dubbed the “favorite young metal band of the moment” by Ghost mastermind Tobias Forge, this is another bit of proof that the path of these four women leads in only one direction: unstoppably to the top!
Addictive “Stronghold” shines as one of the most detailed and melodic tracks on Shades of Sorrow. Following CRYPTA’s successful recent European tour, the quartet will head out on a longer South American run and a full North American tour in early 2024.
It is clear that the talented women of CRYPTA have created another impressive masterpiece with Shades of Sorrow, presenting the very best of their technical ability and songwriting skills on this 13-track onslaught. Shades of Sorrow was recorded at Family Mob Studio, mixed by Daniel Bergstrand at 33 Stockholm, Sweden and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studio.
Fernanda Lira (bass, vocals) on Shades of Sorrow: “Shades of Sorrow is a semi-concept album which describes a journey through the depths of our psyche when facing tough battles. It’s a trip to the many shades of pain we sometimes have to face while enduring our lives’ challenges. The songs are the perfect gloomy, dark, emotional soundtrack for this journey.”
Shades of Sorrow tracklisting: 1 The Aftermath 2 Dark Clouds 3 Poisonous Apathy 4 The Outsider 5 Stronghold 6 The Other Side of Anger 7 The Limbo 8 Trial of Traitors 9 Lullaby for the Forsaken 10 Agents of Chaos 11 Lift the Blindfold 12 Lord of Ruins 13 The Closure
CRYPTA Live 2023/24
Shades Of Sorrow Tour 2023 03.11.2023 BR – Rio de Janeiro / Circo Voador 04.11.2023 BR – Piracicaba / Clube dos Empregados 05.11.2023 BR – Santo André / Santo Rock Bar 07.11.2023 MX – México City / Hdx Circus Bar 09.11.2023 MX – Monterrey / pre fest MMF 11.11.2023 MX – Monterrey / Mexico Metal Fest 2023 12.11.2023 MX – Tijuana / Black Box 17.11.2023 BR – Aracaju / Complexo Cultural Gonzagão 18.11.2023 BR – João Pessoa / Brasil Extremo Fest 2 19.11.2023 BR – Natal / Festival DoSol 09.12.2023 BR – São Paulo / Matanza Ritual Fest 13.12.2023 UY – Montevideo / Plaza Mateo 14.12.2023 AR – Neuquen / Mood Live 15.12.2023 AR – Buenos Aires / Uniclub 16.12.2023 CL – Santiago / tba
Shades Of Sorrow Over North America Tour 2024 27.01.2024 PR – San Juan / La Respuesta 29.1.-2.2.24 US – 70000 Tons Of Metal 03.02.2024 US – Orlando, FL / Conduit 04.02.2024 US – Tampa, FL / Orpheum 06.02.2024 US – Jacksonville, NC / Hooligans 07.02.2024 US – Greensboro, NC / Hangar 1819 08.02.2024 US – Louisville, KY / Headliners Music Hall 09.02.2024 US – Covington, KY / Madison Live 10.02.2024 US – Spartanburg, SC / Ground Zero 11.02.2024 US – Atlanta, GA / Boggs Social & Supply 12.02.2024 US – Nashville, TN / Drkmttr 15.02.2024 US – Houston, TX / Rise Rooftop 17.02.2024 US – Austin, TX / Come and Take It Live 19.02.2024 US – El Paso, TX / RockHouse Bar & Grill 21.02.2024 US – Phoenix/Mesa, AZ / The Underground 23.02.2024 US – San Diego, CA / Brick By Brick 24.02.2024 US – Los Angeles, CA / Whisky a Go Go 25.02.2024 US – Las Vegas, NV / Backstage Bar & Billiards 27.02.2024 US – Sacramento, CA / The Starlet Room 01.03.2024 US – Portland, OR / Dante’s 02.03.2024 US – Seattle, WA / El Corazon
08.08.2024 UK – Catton Park, Derbyshire / Bloodstock Open Air 2024
CRYPTA is: Fernanda Lira – Bass, Vocals Jéssica di Falchi – Guitar Tainá Bergamaschi – Guitar Luana Dametto – Drums
With more than two decades of professional experience in the music industry, JASON CHARLES MILLER, a versatile musician, singer-songwriter, producer, and voice actor, is once again in the spotlight with his stunning cover of IRON MAIDEN’s timeless classic, “Wasted Years.” This remarkable transformation infuses the legendary anthem with an acoustic charm and a touch of country twang, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved rock hit.
“Wasted Years” is more than just a cover; it’s a testament to JASON CHARLES MILLER’s artistic prowess. The song’s acoustic reimagining showcases Miller’s exceptional vocal talent and his unique musical sensibilities. By adding a dash of authentic country flavor while staying true to the song’s rock roots, Miller crafts a captivating and emotionally charged rendition that pays homage to the original while carving out its own niche. “‘Wasted Years’ is one of the most profound songs ever written about life on the road as a musician. The lyrics have always touched me deeply, and I wanted to put my own spin on the loneliness one feels when listening to them. We shot the entire video in one shot, which takes an incredible amount of planning. Luckily director Andrew Fogel and our amazing steady cam operator, Allen Chen are experts in their craft! We put a few easter eggs on the walls, too. See if you can spot them!” – JASON CHARLES MILLER
MILLER’s cover of “Wasted Years” is a must-listen for fans of both IRON MAIDEN and his own remarkable career. It’s a showcase of his ability to blend genres effortlessly and deliver a fresh perspective on a classic. The track also boasts an exceptional ensemble of musicians, including Paul Cartwright, whose masterful violin and viola skills, along with his string arrangement, bring an exquisite layer of depth to the song, while Cameron Stone, renowned for his iconic cello solo in the Game of Thrones theme song, contributes his unparalleled talent on the cello. The music video, directed seamlessly in a single take by Andrew Fogel, promises a visually captivating experience that complements the song’s profound emotional depth. Additionally, the single artwork offers his personal reinterpretation of IRON MAIDEN’s iconic “Wasted Years” artwork, adding a unique and personal touch to this exceptional release.
Taken from his eighth studio album,Cards on the Table, this cover highlights the versatility of Miller’s artistry. With a diverse range of tracks, the album is a defining moment in his already illustrious career. JASON CHARLES MILLER’s journey through the world of music has been nothing short of extraordinary. Widely recognized as the frontman and founder of the rock band GODHEAD, MILLER’s musical journey has taken him around the globe, sharing stages with OZZY OSBOURNE, RAMMSTEIN, DISTURBED, LINKIN PARK, and KORN’s Jonathan Davis.
In 2019, Miller’s vocals soared as he contributed to the Billboard chart-topping theme song for Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers, solidifying his status as a versatile industry artist. Beyond music, he hosts the Webby nominated Starter Kit on Geek & Sundry, appears on various streaming platforms, including Dungeons & Dragons, Nerdist, Hyper RPG, The Young Turks, and College Humor, and co-hosts Bardic Inspiration on CNEGames Twitch. He’s also shared comedic moments with legends like Lewis Black and Andy Dick on Comedy Central. Notably, Miller’s talent extends to video games, featuring in titles such as Halo Infinite and Star Trek Online, where his voice brings characters to life, showcasing his multifaceted abilities.
“Wasted Years” is available on all major streaming platforms, allowing fans and newcomers alike to experience Miller’s unique take on this rock classic.
Upcoming Tour Dates: October 21st Final Fantasy XIV Fan Fest London, UK October 23rd Eorzean Symphony London, UK December 9th Bar Sinister Los Angeles, CA
w/ FASTER PUSSYCAT Tuesday, Oct 31, 2023 – Chico, CA – Tackle Box Wednesday, Nov 1 2023 – Reno, NV – Virginia Street Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 – Bend, OR – Domino Room Friday, Nov 3, 2023 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon Saturday, Nov 4, 2023 – Zilah, WA – Perham Hall/The Old Warehouse Sunday, Nov 5, 2023 – Pendleton, OR – The Electric Sundown Tuesday, Nov 7, 2023 – Great Falls, MT – Newberry Wednesday, Nov 8, 2023 – Billings, MT – Pub Station Thursday, Nov 9, 2023 – Minot, MD – Original Bar & Nightclub Friday, Nov 10, 2023 – Minneapolis, MN – Studio B/Skyway Theatre Saturday, Nov 11, 2023 – Ringle, WI – The Q&Z Expo Sunday, Nov 12, 2023 – St. Charles, IL – Arcada Tuesday, Nov 14, 2023 – Lakewood, OH – The Winchester Wednesday, Nov 15, 2023 – Covington, KY – Madison Live Thursday, Nov 16, 2023 – Detroit, MI – Token Lounge Friday, Nov 17, 2023 – Joliet, IL – The Forge Saturday, Nov 18, 2023 – St. Louis, MO – Diamond Hall Sunday, Nov 19, 2023 – Wichita, KS – Crown Uptown Monday, Nov 20, 2023 – Tulsa, OK – The Shrine Tuesday, Nov 21, 2023 – The Colony, TX – Lava Cantina Wednesday, Nov 22, 2023 – Houston, TX – Scout Bar Friday, Nov 24, 2023 – Ardmore, OK – TBA Saturday, Nov 25, 2023 – Roswell, NM – The Liberty Inc. Sunday, Nov 26, 2023 – El Paso, TX – Rockhouse Tuesday, Nov 28, 2023 – Tempe, AZ – Marquee
For The Metal Voice in London, England, photographer Fernando Bonenfant Talks backstage to former Iron Maiden singer Paul Di’Anno at the final show in London supporting KK’s Priest.
Priest. Di’Anno talks about KK’s Priest Tour, touring with Judas Priest, New Music and upcoming Documentary.
When asked about his tour memories when Iron Maiden opened for Judas Priest in the 80’s “Apparently I pissed Kenny (K.K. Downing) off, um I don’t even remember saying this but apparently I said that. Judas Priest are a bunch of old men we’re going to blow them away which does sound like me, let’s be honest it does but the thing is, I don’t remember saying it. (laughs). Me and Ken didn’t speak for years until recently on the KK’s priest tour so we sort of buried the hatchet and he’s a lovely man and he’s an awesome guitar player and I have so much respect for him. We met a couple of months back (Performing at KK’s Steel Mill ) which was the first time we actually met up again after all these years. It was great. The band is phenomenal. “
When asked about new music “We have the new WARHORSE album coming out next year. I’m writing with my writing partner in Mexico, Marco Benjamin Alvaro. We’ve been writing a few tracks here and there.”
When asked about the upcoming documentary ” I don’t know much about it really, all I do is I just turn up and do it. I’m a little bit upset because I was hoping I’d be up on my feet but it’s not happened. So you get the sort of documentary of the highs and lows of being in a wheelchair and struggling. And since all this happened to me, I suffer from really severe PTSD and it’s not good. You know it changes your whole personality. Sometimes you’re happy go-lucky, other times I’m screaming I want to kill people. It’s not good and that’s not me. I’m only a happy go-lucky person until somebody pisses me off then I’ll beat you (laughs) up but you know so it’s been a bit difficult. So that’ll be out very soon (documentary).”
When asked if there was anything else he would like to say to his fans “Yes you’ve been amazing. Everybody all over the world. We just did this massive tour of Brazil last year just before Christmas and we played more shows in Brazil than we have ever played. Everybody’s been helping me because I ran out of money when I got sick. So the people who helped me get the rest of the operation finished or operations has been the crowdfund which comes from Canada comes from England comes from everywhere, we almost got it finished and then Iron Maiden helped out as well which is awesome. So I want to say to all the fans who do come to the show, thank you for accepting me as I am in the wheelchair at the moment but thank you for everything. You gave me my whole Faith back in human nature. “
Former Iron Maiden singer Paul Di’Anno performed final U.K. tour leg on October 12 at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London, England as the support act along with Burning Witches for KK’S PRIEST.
Joining Di’Anno in his backing band on the U.K. tour George “Gt” Stergiou on guitar, Adam Breyer on guitar, Simon Spence on bass and Joe Lazarus on drums.
UK Prog-rock wizards, GANDALF’S FIST, have got into the spirit of the spooky season of October, by releasing the single Hell’s Sacrament on all major streaming platforms.
Hell’s Sacrament, which features, former Judas Priest vocalist, Tim “Ripper” Owens, is a “heavy” reworking of the opening track from the band’s acclaimed 8th Album, Widdershins, having originally appeared as a bonus track on the deluxe version of the LP. The band have also released the visualizer video to promote the new single.
Gandalf’s Fist front man/guitarist, Dean Marsh, commented:
“I originally worked with Tim on this version of the track way back during Lockdown, with it eventually making its way as a killer bonus track on the deluxe version of our latest album! With “Widdershins” being a conceptual record all about superstitions, we really couldn’t resist the temptation to let the wider world hear such a heavy version of this song on the superstitions day of Friday 13th and so close to Halloween too!”
For the 2023 single release, the track has also been freshly remastered by Dean Marsh, with the song available to stream on all major platforms as well as a lossless download at the band’s official bandcamp page. Copies of the album, Widdershins, along with a few remaining copies of the Bonus disc containing Hell’s Sacrament, are also available from the band’s official website.
STRAY + THE WILD, a formidable force in the realm of dark alternative rock, is proud to announce the release of their latest single “Show Me The Way.”. Produced by the renowned Mudrock, known for his work with Avenged Sevenfold, Linkin Park, Godsmack, and Deftones, and recorded by Mudrock and Alan Dämien, this single is a testament to the band’s commitment to creating music that resonates with the souls of their audience.
Mastered by Howie Weinberg, whose credits include Nirvana, Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, and Run DMC, the single showcases a sonic landscape that is both powerful and evocative, a hallmark of Stray + The Wild’s unique sound.
The music video was directed by Rich Ragsdale & produced by Kevin Ragsdale who recently worked with Sean Lennon on his videos.
Guitarist and songwriter, Alan Dämien, shares, “We realize that we need to put our own ideas about life behind us if we want to write songs that can reach out to the souls of people. We want them to see what’s really happening in the world.”
Dämien further explains, “We all go through so many circumstances that define who we are. People get hung up with bad habits, life events, and become comfortable in their own personal situations. These songs were written to wake people up, to show them how we’re treating the planet, each other, and every living creature, with hopes that we will individually become self-aware and do the right thing.”
With this single, Stray + The Wild delivers on that promise, introducing a newfound sophistication and depth to their music that has been described as “a stroke of genius and a spellbinding new vision for music.” The lyrics are raw, sensitive and real. They express frustrations over the confused state of the world, but they bring a regenerated edge and urgency back to popular music.
2024 tour dates will be announced soon!
Alan Damien, a seasoned guitarist and accomplished songwriter, boasts a rich musical history that includes his previous role as a key member of the acclaimed band Living Dead Lights. Under the skilled management of Doug Goldstein, the iconic figure behind Guns N’ Roses, Alan’s career has reached dazzling heights.
One of his most noteworthy achievements was securing a coveted European record deal, a testament to his global appeal and musical prowess. His work was prominently featured in Hot Topic stores, with nationwide distribution in physical stores.
Alan’s musical brilliance has earned him accolades from prestigious publications like Rolling Stone Magazine, which hailed his music as “A GUARANTEED MEGA HIT” and “THE BEST THING TO HAPPEN IN 10 YEARS.” His compositions have graced the pages of Rolling Stone Magazine eight times, as well as, features in Revolver, Classic Rock Magazine, Playboy, and countless others.
His remarkable talent extends beyond performing and composing. Alan is a proficient music producer and a dedicated music teacher. He also collaborates with fellow artists, co-writing and developing songs for their projects. Furthermore, he lends his creative genius to the world of cinema and television, crafting scores and songs that enhance the storytelling experience.
Ginny Eck is a multifaceted musician known for her mastery of the bass guitar and violin. Her journey in the music industry has seen her as an integral part of signed touring groups, including 9 Electric and Eyeshine. Notably, Eyeshine featured Johnny Yong Bosch, known as the Black Power Ranger, AKA Adam Park, as their singer and guitarist.
Beyond her musical pursuits, AlexVndria is deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world. She dedicates her time to the Beagle Freedom Project, an organization focused on liberating animals from testing facilities and advocating for meaningful change on behalf of these animals.
Collectively, the band shares a strong commitment to veganism and animal rights, reflecting their dedication to ethical values both in their music and their lives.
Stray + The Wild are: AlexVndria – Vocalist Alan Damien – Guitars -Backup Vocals-Keys Ginny Eck- Bass/Violinist Sam Ruff – Drums
THE ROCK ALCHEMIST – Italian Rock Band from Turin with a strong sonic identity that blends modern rock with progressive, hard, alternative, and pop elements!
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
