New Shockwaves Skullsessions Podcast episode #71, hosted by Bob Nalbandian, is now online. On this episode host Bob Nalbandian talks with former WASP guitarist Chris Holmes and film director Antoine de Montremy, who directed the new documentary ‘Mean Man’. The three discuss the film as well as Chris’ move to France, his new band and some great early WASP stories!
Watch the interview HERE.
Death/doom trio, THE CRAWLING, have released their new single “Sparrow,” and accompanying live action lyric video. The song tells a haunting tale of isolation, misery, and the emotional outcome of living a pointless life; amplified by the fact so many ‘spectate’ a chain of events, without offering support.
The lyric video was written, created and filmed entirely alone by vocalist/guitarist Andy Clarke; solely due to lockdown restrictions, and the inability to use a professional studio. The single is accompanied in physical format by digiack CD, cassette, and a new exclusive t-shirt design (created by Serpent Tusk).
Vocalist / guitarist Andy Clarke commented;
“Lockdown restrictions in Northern Ireland didn’t allow for the band to even be in the same room together, let alone film a music video. I really hated the thought of releasing a new track without a video, as it’s something I really enjoy; so, my hand was forced to film something on my own. It’s not like our normal performance style videos, but more of a live action lyric video. It works well, emphasising the lyrics, whilst also creating the haunting imagery of the song.”
Buy and listen from THE CRAWLING Bandcamp now
DAEMONIA NYMPHE released their Lullaby project EP based on “Witches’ Lullaby” on Bandcamp on the 31st of March and it will be released on all digital platforms on the 8th of April 2021. The Bandcamp release also includes the original track “Witches’Lullaby” which was the inspiration for this project. Videos so far about the project can be seen at this location.
“Witches’ Lullaby” was originally composed for the play Macbeth, which was staged at the National Theatre of Northern Greece, directed by Anastasia Revi.
In the play, this melody represented the Shakespearean witches, these enigmatic and dangerous beings who manipulate Macbeth and make us wonder if they are, in fact, the Fates.
The lullaby is a melody that symbolizes birth; a new life. Even in ancient Greek mythology life was influenced by the Fates, Clotho, Lachesis and Atropos. The first represented the present, the second the future and the third the past, all that has happened and cannot be changed.
Lullabies have their own inner strength which can follow a soul on its journey into this world. At the same time lullabies change depending on who is singing them, when the protective force they emit have a different starting point and carry different dreams…
So, based on the melody of the original lullaby, (the dark lullaby of Shakespeare’s witches) which we composed for the play, we intended to create four original lullabies. All five artists involved in this project, had the freedom to create their own lullaby, giving it different meanings each time. Japanese Hattis Noit, Spanish Priscilla Hernandez, British/Portuguese Victoria Couper in collaboration with British/Turkish Reyhan Yusuf and Greek Evi Stergiou, convey through their voices a memory of their own tenderness, strength and hope.
Based on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGdL86qVco8
More information at https://www.facebook.com/DaemoniaNympheOfficial
Polish Metal Alliance – featured by members of the Polish finest metal acts – has posted online the cover video for QUEEN‘s ‘I Want It All’, watch below.
Polish Metal Alliance stated:
“And here it is! 3th song from Polish Metal Alliance It started innocently a year ago with the 1th song and here it turns out that both of us and you liked it. You are the ones who stimulate us to continue working thanks to that we have a lot of energy and ideas for the future 🙂 Thank you very much to the modest and talented colleagues for participating in this song: Wojtek Cugowski Priv Jarosław Chilkiewicz Mirek Skorupski Marek Pająk Tomasz Targosz Łukasz Tomczak for the POWER! and also to the directors of Szymon Grodzki and Adam Drath Invent-Sound Studio Bracia Studio-Adam Drath Case Studio, Borys Szwaszkiewicz Stobno Records and the reliable Arek Kaczmarek for the Be sure to let us know how you like it and I wish you a Healthy and Healthy Easter 😉 ps. look forward to news!”
Tomasz Struszczyk – vocal (Turbo)
Maciej Koczorowski – vocal (Chainsaw)
Wojciech Cugowski – vocal, guitar
Krzysztof Sokołowski – vocal (Nocny Kochanek)
Jarek Chilkiewicz – guitar (Piotr Cugowski)
Marek Pająk – guitar (Vader)
Tomasz Targosz – bass (CETI)
Łukasz Tomczak – drums (Sorry Boys)
Mirek Skorupski – keyboards (White Highway)
Audio – Szymon Grodzki – Invent Sound Studio
Video – Arek Kaczmarek (Chainsaw)
thanks to: Sławek Papis – Case Studio, Adam Drath – Bracia Studio, Borys Sawaszkiewicz – Stobno Records
Original song written by Brian May
More information at https://www.facebook.com/PolishMetalAlliance/
HELLOWEEN have released the first single “Skyfall” along with an amazing video clip! Written by Kai Hansen, “Skyfall” is a storming more than 7 minute ride into the HELLOWEEN universe (and beyond!) The epic track describes an alien landing on earth and a dramatic chase while Michael Kiske, Andi Deris and Kai Hansen duel each other in a breathtaking manner and create a vocal broadband adventure. Produced by Martin Häusler, it is the most elaborate video clip in the history of the band, shown with 3-D animation and having a cinematic look, this video is a real high end experience.
“Skyfall” will be available on CD, digitally and in two different vinyl versions.
Order the singles here in the format of your choice: http://nblast.de/Helloween-Skyfall
The pre-order for the self-titled “HELLOWEEN” record, out on June 18th via Nuclear Blast Tonträger Produktions- und Vertriebs GmbH, also kicked off.
Pre-order here: https://nblast.de/HELLOWEEN-Helloween
Pre-save: http://nblast.de/HelloweenPreSave
TRACKLISTING „HELLOWEEN“
01 – Out For The Glory
02 – Fear Of The Fallen
03 – Best Time
04 – Mass Pollution
05 – Angels
06 – Rise Without Chains
07 – Indestructible
08 – Robot King
09 – Cyanide
10 – Down In The Dumps
11 – Orbit
12 – Skyfall
Bonustracks Mediabook & Vinyl:
01 – Golden Times
02 – Save My Hide
Bonustracks Earbook
01 – Golden Times
02 – Save My Hide
03 – Pumpkins United
»Please stick together!« This was the ardent wish of thousands of fans calling out to Andi Deris, Michael Kiske,Michael Weikath, Kai Hansen, Markus Grosskopf, Sascha Gerstner and Dani Löble during the PUMPKINS UNITED WORLD TOUR – and their dream has come true! With the upcoming album, simply titled HELLOWEEN, the band opens a new chapter after 35 years of a glorious career. The future of one of the most influential German metal bands from now on will feature three singers. Originally planned for the live performances only, it was the birth of a unique seven piece metal alliance.
Dani Löble:”This record is the coronation of the PUMPKINS UNITED journey! Still today I am fascinated by the different character traits and facets of the HELLOWEEN history. As an example I’d like to point out the legendary voices of Michi, Andi and Kai. To enjoy them now together on one record, under one flag is the ultimate HELLOWEEN experience”. It is therefore not surprising that the first single SKYFALL, a 12 minute epos written by Kai Hansen, has the long yearned “Keeper-vibe” – even if the long player can by no means be limited to it. SKYFALL implies the musical arch which will be loved by fans of every era. This first album of a new age is taking the fans from unforgettable memories of the fifteen studio records and four live CD’s to new adventures.
”FEAR OF THE FALLEN” – the second single is a fast paced, melodic track done the way only Deris can do it. ”I had so much fun not only writing a song for my voice but also for one of the greatest singers out there. I always have an extremely broad smile on my face when I hear Michi singing my melodies“, says Deris and Kiske adds: ”The whole process, including the spirit, was just ideal. If I had the feeling that one of the parts would not be really fitting, I asked Andi if he would sing it and vice versa. There was no competition whatsoever – what counted was what is best for the respective song. I am thankful to be (again) a part of this crazy family. I love them all”.
Along with massive album tracks such as HELLOWEEN classic and album opener “OUT FOR THE GLORY“, the epic “DOWN IN THE DUMPS”, both written by Weikath, the power metal shouter “MASS POLLUTION“ by Deris and Grosskopf’s scuff proof rocker“INDESTRUCTIBLE“ (which could be an analogy towards the unbreakable career of the band), the album release is flanked by the ‘party-track‘ of the record, “BEST TIME“. Lyrically the song by Sascha Gerstner reminds of the good old days, musically it´s convincing with confident HELLOWEEN style guitar harmonies and a chorus that stays in your long-term memory after hearing it for the first time. With “ANGELS“, a no less powerful song of his comes into view, bursting with joy in playing: “Synergy, energy & creativity! These were the main elements on this record. We used old school recording engineering from the 80’s merged with the current HELLOWEEN-vibe and here we are: more than 35 years of heavy metal experience on one record!“ adds Gerstner. Besides the line-up and the unique interaction of world class front men – this is what makes the album outstanding: it is a precise time travel through all phases of the band’s history, going back to the roots but at the same time at the speed of light towards the future. “HELLOWEEN“ offers a complete metal universe within 12 songs.
The base of this milestone album was already erected in the studio: using the original drum kit of Ingo Schwichtenberg, the recording was done with the same modulators at the Hamburg HOME studios where back then ”Master Of The Rings“, ”The Time Of The Oath“ and ”Better Than Raw“ were recorded. Completely analog and under the eyes of long term producer Charlie Bauerfeind and co-producer Dennis Ward, the UNITED impact travelled to New York and got the final mix in the Valhalla Studios of Ronald Prent (Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, Rammstein). ”After 30 years with the different line ups of the band I really thought I was well prepared for another extreme challenge, but I was wrong! My expectations were highly exceeded in every way with this super-sized creativity package”tells us Bauerfeind. Dennis Ward adds: ”HELLOWEEN is an institution with only one goal: making music. Not only for themselves, but for the fans as well. When we started mixing we realized that we had a record that covers the whole spectrum of the band and every one of us gave 110% for it. It was an honor to finally work with Charlie and I am grateful to the band that I became a part of their history!”
Besides all musical competence, it is also the special enthusiasm that defines HELLOWEEN. Michael Weikath characterizes in his own way: ”It is the incomprehensible encounter of seven musicians who are working as friends and even family and created something that no one would have thought it could be possible. It is like awaking from a sleep but still being in an incredible dream“. Returnee Kai Hansen reflects: ”Being in the studio with my old companions after 30 years was very emotional for me. But at the same time it was a completely different experience with the ‘new‘ boys. The collaboration of different songwriters and strong characters made the album very special: a unique mix with reminiscences from all chapters of the band’s history. HELLOWEEN is a big part of my life and I am looking forward to celebrating the songs live for and with our fans“! From another perspective Markus Grosskopf agrees: ”For me, being one of the last “survivors” who played every note from the beginning, it was a fantastic experience and a very emotional process. I think everyone can hear it on this album. I love it“.
When it came to capturing the larger-than-life emotions in the artwork, it quickly became clear that it was only possible as a handmade painting on which the important topics of the band’s history are processed. The work of Berlin based artist Eliran Kantor has achieved this and visually underscores the fact that the band cherishes all parts of their history.
“HELLOWEEN“ will be released on June 18th, 2021 as 2CD-Digibook, 1CD-Jewelcase, 2LP-2CD Earbook and as an elaborate Deluxe-Boxset incl. Earbook, a Helloween-wall clock, pins, necklace, patch and an art print of the cover. Available digitally as well as on vinyl with a 2LP Gatefold-version in different colors and picture disc. For all collectors HELLOWEEN offers a limited spectacular 3LP-Hologramm vinyl.
With all this brand new material an album has been created, an album that is set apart from the digital mainstream and showing the essence of the band was never more solid. This is the beginning of something big – here comes HELLOWEEN!
What is worth waiting for: UNITED FORCES TOUR 2022
It was already foreseeable: Due to the pandemic, the originally for April/May scheduled HELLOWEEN European tour has to be postponed again. However, this is no reason to hang your head, even more so now: it is getting even more powerful in 2022!
We all have to stick together to stand and endure this agonizing live music gap and because extraordinary circumstances require extraordinary measures, HELLOWEEN invited their friends from HAMMERFALL to join them on their European tour in order to create a tremendous metal-package together. The UNITED FORCES TOUR 2022 called alliance is not only the full HELLOWEEN experience, on top the fans will enjoy fine Swedish steel out of the HAMMERFALL forge. Both bands will have brand-new albums in their luggage and the European fans will be able to listen to the new songs live for the very first time on the UNITED FORCES TOUR 2022. The long–awaited end of the dry spell is in sight – coming with a double dose in March, April and May 2022 as we have to catch up two years of METALPARTY to get cured from a lot of withdrawal symptoms!
Andi Deris: “We are ‘hammered’ to have our friends from HAMMERFALL with us on tour! Back in 2002 the band produced their album “Crimson Thunder” in my studio in Tenerife and we had a lot of fun back then.” This mega-package is delivering the appropriate metal-spectacle to enter the stage with full power! Oscar Dronjak can hardly wait: “We are so ridiculously excited about this! Not only do we get to go out on tour again after two looooooooong years of stage draught, but we get to do it with a band that we love and was a great inspiration to us in forming HAMMERFALL in the first place. The UNITED FORCES TOUR will be something truly special, you can count on that! “
For the dry run up front, HELLOWEEN is releasing their fantastic new album and with the unification of their three vocalists Kiske, Deris & Hansen the album reminiscences to all eras of the band’s history. This already is a sensation in itself, but also HAMMERFALL is ready to release a brand-new record before the tour starts. A great forerunner to get warmed up for the double load of live power with the ultimate UNITED FORCES TOUR 2022. And whoever misses the just announced dates was probably never infected by the metal virus …
HELLOWEEN & HAMMERFALL
UNITED FORCES TOUR 2022
presented by Metal Hammer, Rockantenne, Piranha, Start, Rocks & Rock It
25-Mar-2022 NOR Oslo – Sentrum Scene
26-Mar-2022 SWE Gothenburg – Partille Arena
28-Mar-2022 FIN Helsinki – Black Box
29-Mar-2022 EST Tallinn – Noblessneri Valukoda
01-Apr-2022 GER Bamberg – Brose Arena
02-Apr-2022 GER Hamburg – Sporthalle
03-Apr-2022 GER Berlin – Verti Music Hall
04-Apr-2022 GER Regensburg – Donau Arena
08-Apr-2022 ES Madrid – Wizink Center
09-Apr-2022 ES Barcelona – St. Jordi Club
11-Apr-2022 IT Milan – Lorenzini District
12-Apr-2022 GER Kempten – bigBOX
13-Apr-2022 CH Zürich – Samsung Hall
15-Apr-2022 LUX Luxemburg – Rockhal
16-Apr-2022 NL Tilbourg – 013
18-Apr-2022 PL Katovice – MCK
20-Apr-2022 BG Sofia – Arena Armeec
22-Apr-2022 AT Vienna – Gasometer
23-Apr-2022 CZ Prag -O2
24-Apr-2022 SK Zvolen – Ice Stadium
26-Apr-2022 HU Budapest – Papp Laszlo Sportarena
29-Apr-2022 GER Bochum – Ruhrcongress
30-Apr-2022 GER Stuttgart – Schleyerhalle
01-May-2022 GER Frankfurt – Jahrhunderthalle
04-May-2022 UK Manchester – Manchester Academy
05-May-2022 UK London – Brixton Academy
19-May-2022 RU St. Petersburg – A2*
21-May-2022 RU Moscow – Adrenaline-Stadium*
23-May-2022 FR Lyon – Transbordeur*
25-May-2022 FR Paris – Olympia*
* without HAMMERFALL
Tickets: https://bit.ly/2E1KcHE
Helloween tickets that have already been purchased remain valid
YOSSI SASSI & THE ORIENTAL ROCK ORCHESTRA have released their new digital album ‘Hear And Dare‘, now available on Bandcamp, Spotify and Apple Music!
Yossi stated:
“Our new release with 10 brand new tracks, is available today at all common downloads & streaming services, along with CDs, shirts etc. This album is our homage to music and musicians, and the rare moments of synergistic creativity that they share.
It was recorded in between Lock-Downs, in “Black Rock Studios”, a top notch studio on the Island of Santorini, Greece, while the Orchestra members had to learn the music on the island itself. Waking up without mobile phones nor schedule, learning songs on the balcony and recording in front of the Mediterranean sea. A blissful and unique experience, which we feel truly reflects on the result! We hope this music makes you feel & react, hear and dare to go beyond!”
‘Hear And Dare’ Tracklist
Brotherhood (4:30)
The Mind Spirit (3:43)
Hear And Dare (3:59)
Benjamin’s Journey (5:29)
Gates Of Ishtar (2:45)
Gia Sigouria (3:24)
Levitating (4:22)
Night Flight (9:43)
Kostas (3:23)
Hope (5:11)
Get your copy at
Furthermore, the special ‘Hear And Dare’ album release show in Tel Aviv will take place on May 12th!
Get your tickets here: https://eventbuzz.co.il/yossishow
Event page here: https://eventbuzz.co.il/lp/event/yossishow
Exclusive design, ‘Hear and Dare’ concept T-shirt now on the official store, here.
Watch below the video for Brotherhood.
Hear and Dare, ft. Mats Levén
More information at:
http://www.YossiSassi.com | http://www.facebook.com/YossiSassi | http://www.youtube.com/YossiSassiOfficial | https://yossisassi.bandcamp.com/
About Yossi Sassi
Familiar internationally to music fans by his unique trademark sound signature, Yossi Sassi merges roots with contemporary music, while taking Oriental Rock to levels unheard before.
Sassi plays 17 different types of guitars and traditional instruments, and was invited to play live and share the stage with artists such as Metallica, Steve Vai, Marty Friedman, Steven Wilson, Dave Lombardo, Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal (G’n’R) and many others. Sassi invented the unique Bouzouki-Guitar (Bouzoukitara) instrument (Electric guitar combined with acoustic Bouzouki & Acoustic guitar), gave a TED talk on “The power of music to unite people”, and was awarded 4 peace and friendship awards.
With over 25 years’ experience as a Producer and Composer / Arranger, as well as co-founder of “Orphaned Land” (Century Media USA/EMI), Yossi Sassi continues to soar to new horizons.
Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 