Sumerian Ceremonials

A fresh idea coming out of the Sumerian Record corner has got me both intrigued and excited.  While I have not spent too much time diving into the works of Florence + The Machine, I am quite aware of the name and the buzz that surrounds Florence, Isabella, and the rest of the group.  Their sophomore album "Ceremonials" was a huge success across the board and was nominated for more awards than I can count on my fingers and toes (that's about as far as I got).  With it only being a 2011 release, I did not foresee someone such as Ash Avildsen wanting to take this to the next level and compose a tribute album.  The outcome was both intriguing and full of potential.  Check out the first track ("What The Water Gave Me") that came to my ears the other day performed by Sumerian Records' newest member Come The Dawn:





"To me, Ceremonials by Florence + The Machine is one of the most timeless records to come out in years. The distinctive vocals and melodies, the orchestration and instrumentation, the production, the mood and the lyrics have made me enamored with the album. It is also one of the heaviest records in years to me… not in the sense of metal and aggressive vocals/guitars/drums, but in how the songs make you feel. The emotional conviction that Florence Welch gives in her delivery combined with the brilliance of Isabella “Machine” Summers and the production of Paul Epworth has made for one of my favorite albums of all time.





I wanted to give Sumerian bands the platform to re-invent these songs and to hopefully bring great music to new ears all over the world who may have otherwise never experienced this album. We made an exception and included one older song from Florence’s previous record Lungs, which Stick To Your Guns did an incredible job with.. I hope you enjoy Sumerian Ceremonials and the original Ceremonials as much as I have. Thank you for taking the time to check it out." -Ash Avildsen (Sumerian Records Founder)





So I think the next question here would be "where do we go from here?"

While I think this is a great concept and getting a slew of great bands from Sumerian's roster to perform the tracks was a great idea, I see how this could be something even more than a one-off concept album.  To me "Ceremonials" should not just be about Florence + The Machine, even though the title is derived from their album.  I think Ash and Sumerian Records should continue to celebrate past influences.





As soon as I heard these tracks uploaded to the Sumerian YouTube page, I started talking about them with friends and family.  I talked about how cool the concept was and how Sumerian could capitalize on the hype that this album could bring.  So then I mentioned "what other artists could you see Sumerian Records follow up with?"




What came to mind was concept album(s) celebrating (a ceremonial if you will) of common influences and mentors over the years that band from the Sumerian roster could collaborate on.  Not like a Roadrunner United or anything like that (even though that might still work), but more along the lines of tribute.  Finding those common artists that have influence across the board could be tough, but not far fetched.

We see multiple genres for influence from artists such as After The Burial, Asking Alexandria, Periphery, Darkest Hour, Stick To Your Guns, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and more.  Anything from Blink 182 to Meshuggah; from Slipknot to Michael Buble.  Whatever the common ground is, I think that Sumerian would capitalize big time as Fearless Records has done with their "Punk Goes" series.  Let's just hope that someone down in Sumerian catches onto this and starts a trend of their own.





My cousin (and fellow music enthusiast) Mark prompted me with a question. "What would YOU choose as the next tribute album for Sumerian Records?"  After careful consideration from the vast amounts of influences ranging from soft rock to heavy metal, it came down to a few artists...

Dream Theater | Tool | Metallica | Slipknot

Now I might be playing it safe by using a few notable bands that EVERYONE seems to cover, but I don't think it's unrealistic.  Periphery alone have covered both Slipknot and Metallica in the past and (I feel) did a great job in the process!  Dream Theater and Tool seem like good choices as well considering their diversity and likability across the board for rock and metal fans.

"Sumerian Ceremonials: Florence + The Sphinx" will be released everywhere on May 13th, 2014.

Music Video Overload For March 28th, 2014

So if you have a slow internet connection or lacking in the memory/graphics card department, then I apologize in advance for this article.  Load the article, grab a coffee/tea, and come back to the desk as it's sure to take a few moments for some of you.  I sometimes forget that everyone's internet capabilities are varied and sometimes these article with lots of video footage tend to take some time to load (that's if it doesn't crash).  So it's either I load them all together and do a round-up of videos or I make separate article for each section, which will equally take time to load.

Anyways, enough with the tech talk.  I assume that most of you visiting the site know now that I am a huge fan of music/lyric videos in a world where they are becoming less relevant...at least on TV and such.  It's not like Much Music, M3, or MTV are publishing anything good other than silly reality shows and talk shows regarding the latest episode of Jersey Shore or whatever shit programming they got going on.  I lost touch with these channels shortly after my high school days where the attention to music videos (at least for most genres) were neglected and replaced with the rant you saw above.

All I have to say is THANK GOODNESS for YouTube, VEVO, Blank TV, and other media channels that still believe in the power of a music video regardless of genre.  While music videos are becoming less expensive to produce, it is equally a form of art that musicians and bands tell a story behind the music.  I see it the same way as going to a concert.  Its all fine and dandy that bands just want to rock out with fans, but what really makes the night memorable is when that band gives you a sensory overload of both music and visuals (much like the sensory overload I experienced the other night at Dream Theater's concert).  While most musicians will disregard this and only focus on the music side, the visual story is (I feel) just as important as the music.

So that being said, I have went through my subscriptions on YouTube and found a batch of really good music videos to accompany the great songs behind it.



"Seven Years Alone" is taken from Devil You Know's debut album "The Beauty Of Destruction", which will be released on April 29th, 2014 via Nuclear Blast Records.




"Born in Winter" is taken from Gojira's fifth studio album "L'Enfant Sauvage".  The album was released on June 26th, 2012 via Roadrunner Records.




"No Ordinary Love" is taken from Memphis May Fire's fourth album "Unconditional".  It was released on March 25th, 2014 via Rise Records.




This is Ballet Deviare's interpretation of Dream Theater's track "Enigma Machine".  It is taken from the band's twelfth (and self titled) album "Dream Theater", which was released on September 20th, 2013 via Roadrunner Records.




"San Asesino" is taken from De La Tierra's debut self-titled release.  It was made available on March 3rd, 2014 via Roadrunner Records.




"The Epilogue" is taken from ††† (Crosses) debut self-titled record, which was released on February 11th, 2014 via Sumerian Records.




"Beyond the Veil" is taken from Lindsey Stirling's upcoming sophomore release "Shatter Me".  The album will be available on April 29th, 2014 via BridgeTone.

Now lyric videos have become a new trend since the internet days.  I guess one could argue that they predated the internet but the viral nature of them (I feel) did not happen until the days of online streaming.  A lot of friends and family have noted that lyric content is a very important part of a song for them.  And I tend to agree.  Hearing the message being conveyed in a song is just as important as the drum or guitar solo you are anticipating from your favourite band.  You don't have to give up educated lyrical content just because of the genre it's in.

My cousin Mark once told me "lyric videos will replace music videos in the near future".  While I don't necessarily agree to replace music videos all together, this statement is very true.  It is still a form of art where the message and a visual can be accompanied.

Lyric Videos:



"To Hell And Back" is taken from Sabaton's upcoming release "Heroes".  It will be available on May 16th, 2014 via Nuclear Blast Records.




"Written For Hollywood" is taken from Across The Atlantic's EP "First Things First", which was released on February 14th, 2014.




"Stay" is featured on Black Stone Cherry's upcoming album "Magic Mountain", which will be released on May 16th, 2014 via Roadrunner Records.




"Revelation" is taken from Insomnium's upcoming record "Shadows Of The Dying Sun", which will be released at the end of April, 2014 via Century Media Records.




"Play The Victim" will be featured on The Word Alive's newest album "Real", which will be available on June 10th, 2014 via Fearless Records.

And of course bands and artists have caught on that even releasing a song on the net can go viral.  As you can see from Whitechapel and Taking Back Sunday's songs below, they have some album artwork and in some instances, some information regarding release dates and possibly tours alongside the album release.  Check em out below!

Audio Tracks:



"Mono" is taken from Whitechapel's upcoming album "Our Endless War", which will be available on April 29th, 2014 via Metal Blade Records.




"How I Met Your Mother" is taken from the newest record of Taking Back Sunday, "Happiness Is".  It was released on March 18th, 2014 via Hopeless Records.

Animals As Leaders Streaming ENTIRE "The Joy of Motion" Album

So I found my entertainment for the day today.  Once again, the online world makes music streams extremely easy to find and give a preview of what is to come.  I'm sure that many of the Animals As Leaders fan base will be buying the album without cause for concern.  And with good reason.  Tosin and Javier are masters of their craft.  Since my first time hearing their track "CAFO" and reading the liner notes that Misha Mansoor (aka Blub/Periphery) was responsible for the production (as well as engineering, programming, mixing, mastering) of the self-titled album, I was hooked!

So about 5 years have passed since the self-titled debut release of the band.  Well established drummer Navene Koperweis bid farewell to the group after two albums, popularity for the group rose immensely (300,000+ fans on Facebook alone), and Misha Mansoor returned to the helm as co-writer, pre-production, and programmer (also a special shout out to Diego from Volumes for his contribution as well).  So here is the finished product.  The title of the new album is "The Joy of Motion" and was released on March 24th, 2014 via Sumerian Records.



The album was met with a lot of positive reviews, such as:

"Abasi infuses the project with a sense of beauty and wonder that feels more closely tied to traditional progressive metal, exploring melody while still pushing his musicianship to dazzling new heights." -Gregory Heaney (All Music)

Other music reviews such as Music Radar have touched base on something I also noticed throughout my time listening to TJoM.  It has a WIDE range of musical influences and styles to make [what might be] bland interludes and key sequences into something that boasts that talent of both Tosin and Javier.

"The first thing that strikes us about this third album, The Joy Of Motion, is the musical breadth covered. Check out the ambient, heavy, delayed rhythm grooves on Air Chrysalis, the jazz fusion of Another Year, the touch of Latin influences on the nylon string-driven Para Mexer, and Tosin Abasi's distinctive, signature funky slap-bass grooves for his eight-string guitar that figure frequently throughout." -Music Radar

Either way, enjoy the tunes and post some comments of your own about the album if you have any.

Gym Music V

My life has been rather hectic these past few weeks.  Not to dive into it too much but life's curve ball has prevented me from visiting my gym on a regular basis.  As two (almost three) weeks passed by, I realized that I had lost focus of my gym goals and needed to get back into it STAT!  So I took off early from my work day, grabbed my gym shoes and took a walk down the street where I knew gym employees were going to haze me with "where have you been?!"

Knowing fully that I deserved whatever hazing they were going to give me, I threw on the gym shorts/shoes and jumped onto some cardio.  While my playlist on my phone has been rather stagnant I was eager to throw on some tunes I knew were going to pump up my blood and get me back into that groove I fell out of light with.  Rather than continuing with my playlist I currently had on my phone, I loaded a few tunes that were kind of a throwback for moi.

1) Across The Sun - Before The Night Takes Us

Recommended Track: "Tipping The Scales"




2) Across The Sun - Pestilence & Rapture (EP)

Recommended Track: "The Ardent Optimist"




3) Bury Your Dead - Mosh 'N' Roll

Recommended Track: "Slaughterhouse Five"




You can see a correlation of music styles for my session yesterday.  It was one of those days where I was in the mood for some hard hitting tunes, good rhythms to keep on pace with (whether cardio or weights) and something to give me that mental "umph" and finish that set of 13 rather than 12.  While my body will probably regret the big goals I set for myself to return to the gym, the feeling of "suck it up buttercup" comes to mind.

Soreness goes away, wounds heal, and life goes on.  So now that I got my taste of being back (even if it was only 2-3 weeks), I am hoping to continue to good vibes and get myself ready for summer time epicness with outdoor backpacking, cycling, running, and of course sticking to those weights!


4) Eighteen Visions - Eighteen Visions

Recommended Track: "Victim"




5) For The Fallen Dreams - Wasted Youth

Recommended Track: "Resolvent Feelings"




6) The Amity Affliction - Youngbloods

Recommended Track: "I Hate Hartley"



So what have YOU all been listening to at the gym?  Do you go with the repetitive EDM music you constantly hear on Virgin Radio?  Do you bring your own playlist to the gym?  Do you just ignore all the music around you?  Do you bring just earplugs?

Music Releases For March 25th, 2014

Do you ever have those days where you are not sure what to do?  Days where you're not sure if you want to get out of bed, what movie to watch tonight, what to make for dinner.  Well, that's pretty close to me today when it comes to this week's music releases.    There is a slew of tunes that have been catching my attention (as well as some new artists) and not sure where to start.  Generally, the vibe tends to lean on the distortion side of things but there are some really good rock, country, and pop-ish tunes being released today as well.

While I am sure there are some folks claiming "you missed a few big names today", there's a reason why I 'missed' them.  The artists I select here are based upon my initial assumptions and previous work from them.  I assume that between all the reviews I have seen plus the song previews that this batch of music is along the lines of what AFGM is interested in promoting.  You got a different POV, then let's see some links and comments either on social media or on this blog.  I am not rushing to the music store to grab the latest Johnny Cash (RIP) or Shakira anytime soon, but I have enough knowledge and respect to know that both artists will produce top quality tunes for the respected genres.  Tokyo Police Club and My Chemical Romance fall under the same moniker.

(Shakira - Shakira)

The hitmaker’s voice and, at times, demented lyrics are so distinctive that she can drop a massive house anthem or channel Taylor Swift on a fragile guitar-pop ditty and still sound very much herself. It’s her favorite party trick and she puts it to good use on Shakira. Yes, a couple of tracks that fall flat and the LP would really benefit from a handful of radio-friendly singles (there’s not a lot to choose from) but the journey is so weird and wonderful that I instantly wanted to take it again.

There aren’t really any real misfires on the album but “Broken Record” is too saccharine for my liking and piano ballad “That Way” feels like an afterthought. Shakira is an extremely good collection of songs without an obvious hit or overarching sound. It’s simply held together by the Colombian’s quirky lyrics and inimitable voice. And that’s more than enough for the diva’s millions of fans around the globe. -Idolator

(Johnny Cash - Out Among The Stars)

All things considered, though, your Cash catalogue is generally none the weaker for missing Out Among the Stars, unless you’ve made it a personal mission to fill your shelves with every one of the 90-odd albums he bashed out before he died.

The most interesting thing about it, in fact, is marvelling at how this endearingly antiquated Nashville makeover was once considered a “commercial” touch-up when the mainstream apogee of contemporary country in 2014 is represented by Lady Antebellum. Thank God Johnny Cash didn’t go that far. -Toronto Star

(My Chemical Romance - May Death Never Stop You: The Greatest Hits 2001-2013)

At worse, My Chemical Romance was a band that had a knack for writing catchy pop-punk songs. At their very best, the band wrote songs that caught the attention of the millions of young people the world over who then managed to transcend all the labels that were forced upon them to become and credible and acclaimed rock act. At least, The Black Parade was one hell of an experiment in storytelling and narrative and in song-writing ability and to do on such a scale was incredibly impressive. The number of anthems here is undeniable, and even their most ardent detractors won't be able to resist a good foot-stomping and fist-pumping upon hearing the band's biggest hits. May Death Never Stop You is a suitable farewell to a band who's legacy is yet to be decided, but if the title of “Fake Your Death” is anything to go by, you may just get the impression that we haven't actually seen the last of them yet. Certainly there's a whole generation of young fans who hope that to true and on the strength of May Death Never Stop You, I for one would have no qualms about the MCRmy going to battle once more. -411 Mania

(Tokyo Police Club - Forcefield)

But it’s also a misleading title. In actuality, Forcefield is the only Tokyo Police Club album that appears to be in tune with prevailing trends. In case you haven’t realized it yet, indie rock is basically pop now and Tokyo Police Club seem energized by not having to pretend like their candy hearts don’t pump Kool-Aid. The bubblegum alt-glam of “Hot Tonight” should be blasting out of Stacy’s mom’s minivan. “Toy Guns” outsources the shrugging, shuffling beat of its chiming chorus from Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated.” “Through the Wire” bears no similarity whatsoever to the Kanye West classic, but its rhythm swings to the same beat as that other song about the wire.

So Tokyo Police Club were in the right frame of mind when they called this thing Forcefield: they didn’t need to look outside themselves to make a truly great record. But after “Argentina”, you just wish they took their own advice more often. -Pitchfork

Since we have the break between the heavy stuff and the rest of my selection (it just sounds funny looking at it that way), I thought this would be a  good time the remind you all that even though downloading happens and we can generally get a lot of music for free at times, the music industry treats album sales like touring schedules.  If you have been wondering why an artist hasn't been visiting your region recently, then you need to ask yourselves if the sales reflect the artist/band going on tour.

So even if you download 10 albums this week, make sure to purchase at least one of them to show your love for the artist, and so the numbers reflect in their touring schedule.  New an emerging bands don't have the cushion like long time artists have.  They work their asses off for next to nothing when it comes down to profits.  I don't think many of you would think about touring across North America and sleeping with your gear in a minivan.

So go to the local record store (it helps more than just the artist), pick it up from an online retailer, or another legal source to get your favourite music or new music that just might be your next 'new favourite'.  Cheers!

(Pantera - Far Beyond Driven: 20th Anniversary)

Following its No. 1 debut, "Far Beyond Driven" remained on the Billboard album chart for seven more months and many still regard it as the heaviest album to ever top the chart. Its 12 tracks represented a continuation of the previous album's relentless musical onslaught with hard-hitting tracks like the first single "I'm Broken" as well as the mosh-pit classics "5 Minutes Alone" and "Slaughtered". Another standout track was the group's swirling acoustic cover of BLACK SABBATH's "Planet Caravan", which became a live favorite when PANTERA hit the road to support the album later that year.

Fans already familiar with "Far Beyond Driven" are in for a treat with the second disc of the "20th Anniversary Edition". Dubbed "Far Beyond Bootleg - Live From Donington '94", the disc contains PANTERA full live set recorded at the Monsters Of Rock festival in Donington, England on June 4, 1994. -Blabbermouth


(Animals As Leaders - The Joy of Motion)

Now the addition of Matt Garstka on drums, the return of co-writer Misha Mansoor and the ever-present guitar duo that defy the laws of what should be possible on a guitar – Tosin Abasi and Javier Reyes – Animals as Leaders return to form and then some with The Joy of Motion.

The Joy of Motion is everything Weightless should have been and wasn't. The Joy of Motion seamlessly blends Animals and Leaders' usual technicality with all the electronica elements introduced on the former, for one thing. It feels much less forced than it did on Weightless and really compliments the writing rather than seeming like an afterthought or even a perceived necessity in the music. -Metal Injection

(Combichrist - We Love You)

Here we have an album that could easily soundtrack the apocalypse. Mixing industrial and something a whole lot heavier, an evil beating heart at it’s core. Album opener ‘We Were Made to Love You’ starts with a spoken word, explaining the decay of modern society what follows is a full on smash to the face of unadulterated anger and electronic beats. Vocalist Andy LaPlegua spitting out his bile drenched vocals with conviction.

It is easy to see why Combichrist have become such a sought after name in the industrial world. This album is just relentless and full of surprises. ‘The Evil In Me’ kind of gives you a breather, with vocals taking a cleaner direction and the beats dropping out for a dark souled piano piece. The break doesn’t last long as you are then hit by the fantastically titled ‘Fuck Unicorns’, which could be a club filler anywhere in the world. For me it’s the stand out track both musically and of course that title is fantastic. -Hit The Floor

(Finch - What It Is To Burn: X Live)

What It Is To Burn X sounds exactly like what a live record should sound like, with the combination of a perfect mix, a raucous hometown crowd and an energetic performance making it feel like you are at show. The band is on fire from the outset, as they deliver blistering renditions of all 13 tracks of What It Is To Burn plus “Worms of the Earth” and “New Kid.” The songs sound as fresh and as relevant as ever, with vocalist Nate Barcalow putting in a powerful and emotive performance that cuts perfectly through the chaos on “Project Mayhem,” just as effectively as he croons over the likes of smash “Letters To You” and my personal favourite, “Post Script.” The combination of this vocal performance (and that of the crowd who can be heard throatily singing along for the whole of the record) and the outstanding performance of the rest of the band (seriously, the guitars of Randy Strohmeyer and Alex Linares sound immense and the rhythm section of drummer Alex Pappas and bassist Daniel Wonacott is in devastating form) ensures that What It Is To Burn X isn’t just a live recording, it’s the sound of a band finally beginning to realise the extent of their own potential. -Under The Gun

(Memphis May Fire - Unconditional)

AFGM: Memphis May Fire Streaming ENTIRE "Unconditional" Album

Lyrically 'Unconditional' is also the band's best work. Mullins has brought his A-game with the rhyme-game. Touching on the usual topics of ostracism, self-harm, and self-doubt, and coming together to change the world there is a significant rise in the delivery of said lyrics, making them very powerful. But, the topic that is very appealing, regardless of religion, is the theme of God's love being unconditional. Rather than being a shaming and condemning take on Christianity, the songs here are a proclamation of the love the deity has for us. Whether you are religious or not there's no denying there is a beauty in the faith Mullins has in his God.

It's not often you get an album such as 'Unconditional'. The album is raw and unrelenting, both Memphis May Fire's most melodic and heaviest work to date, it is also their best. The album has an incredible sonic-impact both on your ears and your heart. But, what makes this album what it is is the passion. It's that passion; that raw emotion; that animosity to craft an album that hits all the marks that makes a great album turn into an amazing album. This is metalcore at it's finest. This is, Memphis May Fire and this is their magnum opus. -Kill Your Stereo

Box Sets:

(Elton John - Goodbye Yellow Brick Road 40th Anniversary)

This 40th anniversary super deluxe box set includes the original album remastered, a CD of all-new cover versions by contemporary artists personally chosen by Elton with additional tracks and B-sides, the full LIVE AT HAMMERSMITH '73 concert on two CDs, and a DVD of Bryan Forbes' 1973 film ELTON JOHN AND BERNIE TAUPIN SAY GOODBYE TO NORMA JEAN AND OTHER THINGS. In addition to the discs, the box also contains a 100-page illustrated hardback book packed with rare photos, memorabilia and a new essay containing interviews with Elton John and Bernie Taupin. -Amazon

Music News and New Music For March 24th, 2014

So of course, when running your own blog it can be tough to keep up with the s**tload of stuff that comes across our ears over a weekend!  Some good, some bad, some not even worth mentioning.  I guess that's how I use AFGM in general.  These articles that I go through everyday from various sites (Blabbermouth, CBC, National Post, AV Club, Exclaim, Music News, Rolling Stone, etc.) and sort of "filter" some of the nonsense news such as the latest fashion design, who's got beef with who and who ISN'T doing music...still.

These articles brought forth are for a few different reasons:

1. It is relevant music information that pertains to you as a reader, no matter the level of intent or the genre.

2. They are relevant to the music I would be currently listening to or a genre I have put some attention and focus on.

3. I am rather patriotic about my Canadian music, so that always comes as a first for me.  I enjoy music from all parts of the world respectively, but I still have to promote local if I can.  Canadian music rocks!

4. Because it's humorous and we can ALWAYS use a good laugh.  Rarely will it be at someone's expense...but then again I am just the guy talking about it.  They're the ones causing the comments.

So in closing, I trust you all will not read EVERY single article posted here.  But I hope you find something of use here and keep the conversation going by forwarding it onto someone else.  Click on each article heading for redirection to the full article.  Cheers!

Twitter #Music Pulled From App Store, Shutting Down April 18:

"Later this afternoon, we will be removing Twitter #music from the App Store. If you have the app, it will continue to work until April 18."


Dal professor helping develop software to analyze ancient music:

"When we want to analyze [music], we’re trying to figure out which pieces of music are similar, which are different, how do they fit with the text, are there similarities between different kinds of pieces of music from different parts of the year?

That’s a lot of data. It’s really helpful to use computers to help us gather things.

The level of data explodes. In the past, before developing this kind of technology, researchers would often just focus on two to three researchers. Your field is very narrow. You might come to conclusions thinking it’s applicable to the broader repertoire.  

This huge amount of data [from the software] is going to give us a much better understanding both of how the notation was developed but also about the repertoire and what was important to people." -Jennifer Bain, chair of the music department at Dalhousie


Kevin Bacon Recreates 'Footloose' Moves on 'The Tonight Show':




Regina Folk Festival Announces 2014 Lineup:

Sam Roberts Band, Indigo Girls, Joel Plaskett, Serena Ryder, Los Lobos, Matt Andersen, Elliott Brood, Royal Canoe, Jon and Roy, Saidah Baba Talibah, Geoff Berner, Mo Kenney, Clinton St. John, Naomi Shelton & the Gospel Queens, the Harpoonist & the Axe Murderer, Klô Pelgag, Blitz the Ambassador, Mexican Institute of Sound and more.

The Regina Folk Festival will be held on August 8th-10th, 2014 in Victoria Park, Regina, SK.


Arcade Fire, Shad, City and Colour Nominated for Canadian Music Week's Indie Awards:

Album of the Year:
-Arcade Fire - Reflektor (Merge Records)
-Basia Bulat - Tall Tall Shadow (Secret City Records)
-City and Colour - The Hurry and the Harm (Dine Alone Records)
-Shad - Flying Colours (Black Box Recordings)
-The Weeknd - Kiss Land (CP Music Group)

Artist of the Year:
-Basia Bulat (Secret City Records)
-City and Colour (Dine Alone Records)
-Classified (Black Box Recordings)
-Shad (Black Box Recordings)
-The Weeknd (CP Music Group)

Winners will be decide public and industry votes. Fans can vote online here starting on March 31. Those who come out on top in the Emerging Artist of the Year categories (in both French and English) will each get a $5,000 bursary.


Swedish House Mafia's Farewell Documentary Gets Canadian Screenings:



Leave the World Behind will be shown in 17 countries worldwide. This includes Canada, where the film will be screened Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver on April 1st, 2014.


Sasquatch! Music Festival Cancels July Weekend:

“The Sasquatch! community has spoken. They continue to support the traditional Memorial Day Weekend event with great enthusiasm. Unfortunately, the second weekend was not embraced. We felt it was better to cancel the new event now and give everyone time to make alternative plans for the Fourth of July weekend. Going forward, Sasquatch! Music Festival will be at the Gorge Amphitheatre on the weekend the fans want: Memorial Day Weekend only." -Jeff Trisler, President of Live Nation Seattle


Canadian Music Week Expands 2014 Lineup:

The latest batch of artists includes Mastodon, Owen Pallett, Little Dragon, Travi$ Scott, Born Ruffians, Mounties, Hidden Cameras, Hollerado, Brendan Canning, Nothing, Matt Pond PA, Kongos, Diana, the Operators (with Dan Boeckner), the Flatliners, the Glorious Sons, High Dials, Wildlife, the Balconies, No Sinner, the Strumbellas, Biblical, Nikki Yanofsky, Grey Kingdom, Flash Lighnin', Poncutation, the BB Guns, Grounders, the Motorleague, Pat Jordache, the Slackers, PyPy, Red Mass and many more.


The Black Keys Announce 'Turn Blue' Album via Hypnotic Trailer:




Swollen Members Book Canada/U.S. Tour, Plot New Album:

“With Brand New Day, Swollen Members have written a powerful new chapter in our history. We have all become forward thinkers and our level of expression has benefited. This album is a landmark for us in that it doesn’t feature any guests. Our belief system has been renewed and we agreed that between the amazing production and the complexity of the lyrical value, we could let Brand New Day speak for itself.” -Prevail

Apr 23 – Vancouver, BC– Venue Night Club
Apr 25- Chilliwack BC – Tzeachten Center
Apr 26 – Cranbrook, BC – Eagles Hall
Apr 28 – Calgary, AB – Dickens Pub
Apr 29 – Lethbridge, AB – Studio 54
May 01 – Edmonton, AB – The Ranch Roadhouse
May 02 – Saskatoon, SK – The Odeon
May 03 – Winnipeg, MB – Pyramid Cabaret
May 06 – Toronto, ON – Opera House
May 08 – Guelph, ON – The Vinyl
May 09 – Niagara Falls, ON – The Spot
May 10 – Montreal, QC – Underworld Cabaret
May 13 – Boston, MA – Middle East Downstairs
May 14 – New York, NY – Santos
May 16 – Detroit, MI – Shelter
May 17 – Chicago, IL – Subterranean
May 18 – St. Louis, MO – Pop’s
May 21 – Fort Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre
May 22 – Boulder, CO – The Fox Theater
May 23 – Durango, CO – Animas City Theatre
May 24 – Albuquerque, NM – Sister Bar
May 25 – Scottsdale, AZ – Pub Rock


Rumor - Apple Execs Mulling Streaming Music Service, iTunes Android App:

According to Billboard, speaking to unnamed sources, Apple is allegedly mulling the idea of launching its own music subscription service – a Spotify / Rdio / Beats competitor that would theoretically allow users to pull up any music hosted in the iTunes Store for a competitive, monthly rate.


ALTER BRIDGE To Release 'Live In Milan' CD, DVD, Blu-Ray In June:



The show was taped at the Mediolanum Forum in Milan, Italy on November 12th, 2013 in front of a sold-out crowd of over 10,000 fans.


Linkin Park Guitarist Brad Delson On New Album:

“There’s a lot of guitar solos on the album! And this is from someone who was quoted early on as saying I hated them. Not that I hated them as a listener; I just don’t want to play any; I shirked guitar solos. Early on, I felt as though the songs we were making aesthetically didn’t want them. This new batch of songs, to me, always want solos. I feel like every song has one.”


Yellowcard Sign To Razor & Tie:

Yellowcard has signed to Razor & Tie for a worldwide multi-album deal that will see the release of a new studio album this Fall. Yellowcard will hit the road this summer on the Vans Warped Tour kicking off on June 13th.

“We are beyond excited for what lies ahead. There are so many amazing opportunities on the horizon for us, and we are stoked to have a new partner in Razor & Tie.” -Yellowcard

“It’s great to have Yellowcard on Razor & Tie. They make rock the way we like it — with energy, hooks and attitude. They are total pros and we couldn’t be more proud to work with them.” -Cliff Chenfeld and Craig Balsam (Razor & Tie Co-Owners)


Bam Margera’s Fuckface Unstoppable Sign With Artery Recordings:




The Town That Put the Pop in Music - A Look Back at 100 Years of New York Sounds:

"What follows is not the history of popular music in New York, but a history—an impressionistic, anecdotal, suggestive, but by definition incomplete survey of the past 100 years of New York pop, focusing on key figures and watershed events. That musical century is, of course, too vast to be comprehensively covered in a book, let alone a single issue of a magazine. Sharp readers will find that many illustrious musicians and  moments—even whole genres—have been left on the cutting-room floor. But we’ve tried to convey the crazy-quilt variety of New York’s pop music, to highlight telling vignettes, and, where possible, to let the musicians speak for themselves. The songs and nights we’ve selected aren’t necessarily the best ones, but they’re our version of a New York musical canon, our Great New York Mix Tape. And check back throughout the week for bonus, extended interviews and links to additional sources and sounds."


SLIPKNOT To Stage First-Ever Japanese Edition Of KNOTFEST In November:




Guitar Signed By VINCE NEIL, VIVIAN CAMPBELL, KERRY KING Being Auctioned For GEORGE TUTKO Cancer Fund:

The Schecter Diamond Series guitar signed by:

* Vince Neil (MÖTLEY CRÜE)
* Bruce Kulick (KISS, GRAND FUNK RAILROAD)
* Vivian Campbell (DEF LEPPARD, WHITESNAKE, DIO)
* Rick Springfield
* Doug Aldrich (WHITESNAKE)
* Richie Kotzen (POISON, MR. BIG, THE WINERY DOGS)
* Micky Dolenz (THE MONKEES)
* Uli Jon Roth (SCORPIONS)
* Albert Lee (legendary blues guitarist)
* Kerry King (SLAYER)
* Carlos Cavazo (RATT, QUIET RIOT)
* GREAT WHITE (Mark Kendall, Audie Desbrow, Michael Lardie, Scotty Snyder, Terry Ilous)
* QUEENSRŸCHE (Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield, Michael Wilton, Parker Lundgren, Todd La Torre)


Five Finger Death Punch Premiere "House Of The Rising Sun” Music Video:




Metallica Talk 'Effortless' Dio Tribute: Hear It Here First:


[Dio's] music is so much a part of what's in Metallica's DNA, the harder, edgier, blues-based hard rock from the Seventies.  It was fairly effortless to put this together, because it's something that we were all reared on. I don't recall sitting there in a band meeting or anything deciding what to play. Somebody starts playing 'Stargazer' – which is sort of just like something that's in our arsenal to jam – and then that whole period there, 'Tarot Woman,' 'Kill the King,' 'A Light in the Black ' – that's just really effortless to jump into." -Lars Ulrich

AEROSMITH To Tour U.S. With SLASH:

"It's official- we just talked,
AEROSMITH/SLASH USA tour confirmed!!
Tickets on sale next few wks Soon as dates confirmed.LET ROCK RULE!" -Joe Perry


Stray From The Path Premiere “Black Friday” Video:

Gwar Frontman Dave Brockie Has Died:

"Dave was one of the funniest, smartest, most creative and energetic persons I've known.  He was brash sometimes, always crass, irreverent, he was hilarious in every way. But he was also deeply intelligent and interested in life, history, politics and art.

His penchant for scatological humors belied a lucid wit. He was a criminally underrated lyricist and hard rock vocalist, one of the best, ever! A great front man, a great painter, writer, he was also a hell of a bass guitarist. I loved him. He was capable of great empathy and had a real sense of justice." -Mike Bishop (former bassist of GWAR)


THE AGONIST - 'Disconnect Me' Lyric Video:

Music Video Round-Up For March 21st, 2014

Everyone could use some new music videos for their Friday evening parties and relaxation time.  I have done my best to put these videos in order of intensity so that you're not streaming the breakdowns of Parkway Drive and seamlessly flow into acoustic melodies of Norah Jones & Billie Joe Armstrong.  However big the difference is between some of the genres, I thoroughly enjoy (and will always enjoy) music videos.  Its the visual side of music that most of us want to experience.  An art in itself if you will.

Billie Joe Armstrong & Norah Jones - Kentucky:



"Kentucky" is taken from the Billie Joe Armstrong & Norah Jones' duet album "Foreverly", which was released on November 25th, 2013 via Reprise Records.


††† Performs "The Epilogue" on Jimmy Kimmel Live:



"The Epilogue" is taken from †††'s debut self-titled LP, which was released on February 11th, 2014 via Sumerian Records.


Fucked Up - "Paper The House":



"Paper House" comes off Fucked Up's upcoming album "Glass Boys", which is due out in stores on June 3rd, 2014 via Matador Records.


THE EXPLOITED - The Massacre (Live):



"The Massacre" is taken from The Exploited's "Beat The Bastards" Special Edition Re-issuie.  It was released on March 17th, 2014 via Nuclear Blast Records.


AVATAR - 'Hail The Apocalypse' Video:



The band's latest album "Hail The Apocalypse" will be released on May 13th, 2014 via eOne Entertainment.


Live Performance Of Parkway Drive’s “The River”:



Parkway Drive performing “The River” during the Berlin, Germany stop of the ‘Vans Warped Tour‘ in November, 2013.


Intervals Premiere “Moment Marauder”:



The song is taken from the groups latest album “A Voice Within“, which was released on March 11th, 2014.

War of Ages @ El Mocambo (March 2nd, 2014)

On a typical Canadian evening, my fingertips and legs were starting to feel rather raw from the bone chilling winds that were plaguing downtown Toronto.  With temperatures dropping to somewhere around the -20/25 mark, I was trying to keep high hopes for a decent turn out to this concert.  Seeing War of Ages many times in the past gave me the will to venture out on a Sunday evening to a venue I have never been to before.  First time at a legendary venue such as El Mocambo with a great act such as WoA was a winner in my books.

Now my first impression of the venue did not live up to the reputation I thought it had.  Unlike other classic venues in the city such as Massey Hall (I know thats a big comparison) and even intimate places like Horseshoe Tavern usually give off a vintage vibe that makes you feel like you are a part of something.  Unfortunately I did not feel the same about El Mocambo.  It could have been the fact that there were less bodies than expected, it could have been the major draft coming from the front doorway, or it could be the fact that it was a 19+ event, which (I believe) affected the turnout of the evening.  Whatever the case may be, I found myself watching an underrated band in an overrated bar.

Many opening acts throughout the evening made the evening dragged on.  Not that I didn't find them entertaining or anything but just seemed to be one band after another.  It might have been a different situation had I known most of the opening acts.  And I also understand that there needs to be some bang for your buck, even if the ticket was only $13.  That being said, Mouth of the South seemed to get the crowd warmed up quite easily.  However, I know this is just my personal preference NOT to mix religion with music.  Even if it is your inspiration/muse, I don't want to come to a show and listen to you preaching on stage.  If I wanted to hear someone talk about JC, I would seek the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association or something along those lines.  Whew, glad to have gotten that off my chest.

So here is what we got right from the get go of the show...

Five guys enter stage left with a goal to rock the bodies they saw filling in in front of them.  So logistically, I say these guys played their hearts out against the elements (Sunday night, freezing temperatures, 19+ event, little advertisement, etc.).  The odds were not in their favour but I loved the amount of energy they brought to their setlist and interacting with the crowd.  Overall, I was very happy seeing them come through Toronto once more.  This was the first time I had seen them headlining their own tour so getting those extra songs out of them was well worth the wait on a late Sunday evening.

"ALL CONSUMING FIRE BURN!"

Arch Enemy Continues The War Eternal

With the sudden announcement of Arch Enemy losing their singer and gaining a new one really made some heads spin the other day.  Long time vocalist Angela Gossow decided that the time was right to step back from the spotlight and continue her role as band manager for Arch Enemy.  She left with a statement that read like:

“Dear ARCH ENEMY fans, this is not easy to tell you…I have decided to step down from being ARCH ENEMY’s voice of anger. After 13 years of pure fucking metal, 6 studio albums and countless tours through five continents, I feel the need to enter a different phase in my life, be with my family and pursue other interests. I will however remain business manager for ARCH ENEMY, and I will continue to develop my artist management roster.

I am staying true to my heavy metal roots, just leaving the spotlight so to speak. I am passing the torch to the super talented Alissa White-Gluz, whom I’ve known as a dear friend and a superb vocalist for many years. I always thought she deserved a chance to shine – and now she’s getting it. Just like I got that chance back in 2001.

I want to thank all ARCH ENEMY fans, our labels Century Media (worldwide) and Trooper Entertainment (Japan), our dedicated road crew, and in particular Michael, Daniel and Sharlee for their love and support throughout all these years. It’s been one hell of a ride! We conquered every situation, made it through thick & thin together in the most exciting and rewarding time of my life. Thank you all for being there with me on stage, in front of the stage, and backstage. You have touched my heart, and I hope I was able to give something back to you. I am grateful for the wonderful memories - I will cherish them forever!

I am looking forward to the next decade of ARCH ENEMY madness! Right now I am listening through rough mixes of the new studio album and I am blown away! 2014 will see a renewed ARCH ENEMY at the top of their game. I am proud to be part of this ARCH ENEMY chapter, albeit in a different way - revving up the engines behind the scenes. I hope to see you in front of the stage, I will join you there this time. Let the killing begin, once again!”

Whatever the reasoning was behind her leaving, she did it with tact, on good relations with other members and decided that staying as the band's manager was probably the best move.  It would make an easier transition for the newest addition to the band.  While announcing her departure, Arch Enemy was quick to find their replacement and jump right into the fold with new material.

I think they did this transition flawlessly as to not upset long time fans and potentially gaining new ones.  Arch Enemy welcomed Canadian vocalist Alissa White-Gluz into the family.  Alissa had this to say about her departure [from The Agonist] and arrival to the group:

"I am very honored and happy to announce a new chapter in my life and musical career beginning now; I have joined forces with one of my all-time favorite and globally respected bands, ARCH ENEMY. ‘Wages of Sin’ was the first metal album I ever bought, and it was love at first listen. It is not often that you get a phone call from your favorite band asking you to join! I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such amazingly talented musicians whom I also consider great friends. I look forward to being able to write and perform at a whole new level now with ARCH ENEMY! Music is forever, metal is limitless and this is only the beginning!"

While many people were questioning whether they would enjoy the new sound and style of the band, Arch Enemy was quick to put all worries to rest as they released a brand new music video for the self titled track "War Eternal", which you can check out below:



I am reading through the comments here and most seem to be positive.  Sure you will have those die hard trolling fans that claim Arch Enemy is not the same anymore.  Mind you, I'm sure these are the same people who either had no previous research or said the same thing when AE saw the departure of Johan Liiva back in 2000.  Band dynamics change, people change, and lives change.  It's a part of life and fans need to accept that.  Not saying that people are not entitled to their taste of music, but a threshold has to be somewhere for level of acceptance.

"This is a day to remember. It is such a great feeling to come back with new music and to unleash the first single and video off 'War Eternal'. Behold the first chapter of the new Arch Enemy saga... This is f**king war!" -Michael Amott



While not being a huge fan of Arch Enemy in general, I have seen them a few times live in concert and they always seem to produce top quality albums and themes for those albums.  I am looking forward to seeing what the Canadian has to offer the group.  If it's anything like I just saw above, then maybe my first Arch Enemy purchase might be coming up in June.

1. Tempore Nihil Sanat (Prelude in F minor)
2. Never Forgive, Never Forget
3. War Eternal
4. As The Pages Burn
5. No More Regrets
6. You Will Know My Name
7. Graveyard Of Dreams
8. Stolen Life
9. Time Is Black
10. On And On
11. Avalanche
12. Down To Nothing
13. Not Long For This World

Music News and New Music For March 20th, 2014

So of course, when running your own blog it can be tough to keep up with the s**tload of stuff that comes across our ears over a weekend!  Some good, some bad, some not even worth mentioning.  I guess that's how I use AFGM in general.  These articles that I go through everyday from various sites (Blabbermouth, CBC, National Post, AV Club, Exclaim, Music News, Rolling Stone, etc.) and sort of "filter" some of the nonsense news such as the latest fashion design, who's got beef with who and who ISN'T doing music...still.

These articles brought forth are for a few different reasons:

1. It is relevant music information that pertains to you as a reader, no matter the level of intent or the genre.

2. They are relevant to the music I would be currently listening to or a genre I have put some attention and focus on.

3. I am rather patriotic about my Canadian music, so that always comes as a first for me.  I enjoy music from all parts of the world respectively, but I still have to promote local if I can.  Canadian music rocks!

4. Because it's humorous and we can ALWAYS use a good laugh.  Rarely will it be at someone's expense...but then again I am just the guy talking about it.  They're the ones causing the comments.

So in closing, I trust you all will not read EVERY single article posted here.  But I hope you find something of use here and keep the conversation going by forwarding it onto someone else.  Click on each article heading for redirection to the full article.  Cheers!

Rush Plotting 41st Anniversary Tour for 2015:

"We said, 'Let's not talk about anything band-wise for the next year. Let's separate ourselves and come back rejuvenated.' Unfortunately, the other people at that meeting didn't hear what we were talking about, so there are already plans being made for spring of 2015. It's going to be a 41st anniversary tour, or whatever they're going to call it.

We haven't really talked seriously about what we want to do.  But I think we're probably going to lean towards making it a real sort of fan event, and really try to put something together that's very pleasing for the fans across the board. That's always been difficult, for us to sort of balance things.

We want to try and play different material this time.  I've always wanted to do some rarer Rush material, and this should be a good opportunity to do that. I also think it's going to be a long tour. We just need to stay healthy until then." -Alex Lifeson


SOUNDGARDEN Reportedly Recruits Drummer MATT CHAMBERLAIN For Upcoming Shows:

Chamberlain has contributed his drumming to the tours and albums of include Tori Amos, Peter Gabriel, THE WALLFLOWERS, Fiona Apple, Kanye West, Elton John, Natalie Merchant, John Mayer and Shakira.


Scott Asheton of the Stooges Dies at 64:

"My dear friend Scott Asheton passed away last night.

Scott was a great artist, I have never heard anyone play the drums with more meaning than Scott Asheton. He was like my brother. He and Ron have left a huge legacy to the world. The Asheton's have always been and continue to be a second family to me.

My thoughts are with his sister Kathy, his wife Liz and his daughter Leanna, who was the light of his life.

Iggy Pop"


Periphery Reveal Plans For New Album:

“We are going to do this next album ourselves. We have a really specific vision of what we are after, and we think this would be the best approach. I will be working with all of the guys on the pre-pro and instrumental production, Spencer will handle vocal production and Nolly will of course be in charge of engineering and mixing.

We are definitely going to be doing live drums again, we haven’t exactly figured out where just yet, but we might even try to use different drum rooms/studios for different songs for some variety. All in all, it’s an ambitious project and every member has their work cut out for them, but we are all very excited!” -Misha Mansoor




KISS And DEF LEPPARD - North American Tour Dates Announced:

Jun. 23 - West Valley City, UT - USANA Amphitheater
Jun. 25 - Denver, CO - Pepsi Center
Jun. 27 - Ridgefield, WA - Sleep Country Amphitheater
Jun. 29 - Auburn, WA - White River Amphitheater
Jul. 02 - Concord, CA - Concord Pavilion
Jul. 03 - Wheatland, CA - Sacramento Valley Amphitheater
Jul. 05 - Irvine, CA - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Jul. 06 - Chula Vista, CA - Sleep Train Amphitheatre
Jul. 08 - Los Angeles, CA - The Forum
Jul. 09 - Phoenix, AZ - Ak-Chin Pavilion
Jul. 12 - Austin, TX - austin360 Amphitheater
Jul. 13 - Dallas, TX - Gexa Energy Pavilion
Jul. 15 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverbend Music Center
Jul. 16 - Nashville, TN - Bridgestone Arena
Jul. 18 - Atlanta, GA - Aaron's Amphitheater at Lakewood
Jul. 19 - Charlotte, NC - PNC Music Pavilion
Jul. 20 - Raleigh, NC - Walnut Creek Amphitheater
Jul. 22 - West Palm Beach, FL - Cruzan Amphitheater
Jul. 23 - Tampa, FL - MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheater
Jul. 25 - Bristow, VA - Jiffy Lube Live
Jul. 26 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center
Aug. 01 - Mansfield, MA - Xfinity Center
Aug. 02 - Atlantic City, NJ - Boardwalk Hall
Aug. 03 - Camden, NJ - Susquehanna Bank Center
Aug. 05 - Saratoga Springs, NY - Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Aug. 06 - Wantagh, NY - Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre
Aug. 08 - Virginia Beach, VA - Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach
Aug. 09 - Scranton, PA - Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain
Aug. 10 - Hartford, CT - The Xfinity Theatre
Aug. 12 - Toronto, ON - Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
Aug. 13 - Darien Center, NY - Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
Aug. 15 - East Troy, WI - Alpine Valley Music Theater
Aug. 16 - Tinley Park, IL - First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre
Aug. 17 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center**
Aug. 20 - Des Moines, IA - Wells Fargo Arena**
Aug. 22 - Noblesville, IN - Klipsch Music Center
Aug. 23 - Clarkston, MI - DTE Energy Music Theatre
Aug. 24 - Burgettstown, PA - First Niagara Pavilion
Aug. 26 - Cuyahoga Falls, OH - Blossom Music Center
Aug. 28 - Maryland Heights, MO - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Aug. 29 - Tulsa, OK - BOK Center
Aug. 31 - Houston, TX - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Tickets go on sale starting on Friday, March 21 through the Live Nation mobile app and at LiveNation.com.


24 Inventions That Changed Music:

"We've come a long way in capturing and reproducing sound, and in many ways, the journey has been a poetic and literal full circle. From Thomas Edison's first experiments with waveform-engraved cylinders to the rotating dials of our iPods − and every touchstone devoted to preserving composition and performance since and after − we've amassed a timeline of 24 essential breakthroughs (be they physical tools or digital breakthroughs) in recorded-music and playback technology."


Lacuna Coil Release “Die & Rise” Lyric Video:



“Broken Crown Halo“ will be released on April 1st, 2014 via Century Media Records.


St. Patrick's Day is a reminder of the deep musical influence of the Irish:

“Ireland is the most musical country in the world.  You can’t walk three blocks anywhere in the country without hearing music.  Maybe it’s because sometimes music was the only weapon the Irish people had." -Liam Clancy


36 Crazyfists Winding Down Recording Sessions:

"Recording is going great, kickin my ass a lil too but that was always the plan. Should be done w Voxs in the next two weeks and then we should be able to share some teasers with you. It is exciting to read all of your comments and support, your patience and belief mean a tremendous amount. Hope everyone is having a great week. Love & Respect

Brock36CF"


The Agonist Show Off Their New Frontwoman On “Disconnect Me” Preview:




BLACK VEIL BRIDES Taps Producer BOB ROCK For Next Album:

"Last day of week 1 of pre production on #BVB4 with the legendary Bob Rock! Only a week in so far and we are already so stoked on the tracks and direction this record is going in! Rock n Roll!"


Future Music festival abandoned after up to six suspected drug deaths:

“The six victims who died were believed to have taken the drug methamphetamine before going to the concert. The drug is known as ‘designer drug’ or synthetic drugs, which is called meth." -Datuk Mohmad Salleh


Cancer Bats Demoing New Material:

"Hammering away at some new demos! #keepitbrutal #empresseffects #heavy #godflesh #shred4pizza #manx #klon #rocktron #cancerbats #cb5"


For The Fallen Dreams Streaming New Tracks “Dream Eater” and "Emerald Blue":





"Heavy Hearts” will be in stores on April 8th, 2014 via Rise Records.


JOHN 5 Says His Next Solo Album Will Be 'Really Intense':

"I'm working on it and just mixing it right now.  It is crazy. If people liked my earlier work, you're going to be really excited about it. It's really intense. It's, like, when you listen to it, it's, like, 'What just happened?”, which is one of the songtitles. It's really exciting. I can't wait for people to hear it.

These albums are a lot of fun. I just do 'em for the love of guitar and to inspire a couple of people on the way… I just really enjoy doing that. It's great. It was one of the smartest things I've ever done. Right when I left MANSON, I was, like, 'OK, so I guess I'll finally make my instrumental record.' And it did really well, and I'm on my sixth one. And I don't do them for money or anything — I just do them for the love of the guitar — and I think the audience really can see that. I'll do something like a Chet Atkins song and then some crazy death metal-type song. So it's a very wide range of music; there's no format and there's no rules." -John5


I Am Abomination Eyeing New Album Following Nativ’s Implosion:

Hey guys, Phil here. I apologize for the lack of update, life's been a bit wild. But here goes. We are still in the very early planning stages of a new album. Nick's recording schedule has been pretty wicked but we're making every effort to find a point in our year at which both of our schedules will allow us to write and record. While that happens, Nick will continue to produce some of your favorite bands, and I'm going to take a stab at a solo project. Couldn't possibly express my gratitude I have for all of your patience and support. It seriously blows my mind. Hope you're all doing well. Can't stop won't stop♥


Between The Buried And Me, Strife, Earth Crisis, Etc. ‘Record Store Day’ Releases Coming:

- Between The Buried And Me – “Colors_Live” (2xLP) (solid red vinyl) (limited to 1,400)
- Buried Alive – “Death Of Your Perfect World” (grey putty vinyl) (limited to 900)
- Close Your Eyes – “Prepackaged Hope” (7″ solid red vinyl) (limited to 900)
- Earth Crisis – “Gomorrah’s Season Ends” (solid yellow vinyl) (limited to 900)
- Jungle Rot – “Kill On Command” (solid red vinyl) (limited to 900)
- Strife – “In This Defiance” (900 white vinyl/100 randomly inserted green vinyl)


Circle Of Contempt Streaming New Song “Redefine”:



The track was xixed, mastered and produced by Julian Rodriguez.  It is unclear whether this will be featured on a new album from CoC.


Pennywise Map Out Canadian Dates on Spring Tour:

04/23 Sacramento, CA - Ace of Spades
04/24 Santa Cruz, CA - The Catalyst
04/25 Petaluma, CA - Phoenix Theatre
04/26 Bend, OR - Midtown
04/27 Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
04/29 Seattle, WA - The Showbox
04/30 Vancouver, BC - The Commodore Ballroom
05/02 Edmonton, AB - Union Hall
05/03 Calgary, AB - Macewan Hall Ballroom
05/04 Saskatoon, SK - Louis' Pub
05/05 Winnipeg, MB - Garrick Events Theatre
08/09-10 Montreal, QC - Parc Jean-Drapeau (Heavy Montreal)


Music Snobs, Neil Young Has a Product for You:

"Pono Music, Young’s new venture, is the most high-profile effort yet in a wider push toward high-resolution digital audio, which audiophiles say will end the tyranny of the mp3. As of now, there are a number of formats that promise to change our lives by blending the the quality of pre-digital music with the convenience of iTunes. Pono purports to be both iPod and iTunes for this world. With its Kickstarter campaign, the company is peddling a Toblerone-shaped music player that could handle a range of hi-res formats, and an online music store selling them at a significant mark to mp3s."


KILLER BE KILLED Featuring CAVALERA, PUCIATO, SANDERS: First Two Songs Available For Streaming:



The debut self-titled album will be released on May 13th, 2014 via Nuclear Blast Records.


Avatar Announce "Hail The Apocalypse" Album Set For May:

1. Hail The Apocalypse
2. What I Don't Know
3. Death Of Sound
4. Vultures Fly
5. Bloody Angel
6. Murderer
7. Tsar Bomba
8. Puppet Show
9. Get In Line
10. Something In the Way
11. Tower

"This is our best video to date. I play your friendly neighborhood doomsday prophet. You get to follow me facing the unbelievers and their reactions when chaos ensues. Good times all around and we are using some really amazing special effects to blow up the planet. Oh, and it's done like a silent movie." -Johannes Eckerström

"Hail The Apocalypse" will be released on May 13th, 2014 via eOne Entertainment.


Emmure, Upon A Burning Body & Fall City Fall Booked For May Eastern Canadian Tour:

5/20 Montreal, QC – Tulipe
5/21 Quebec City, QC – Dagobert
5/22 Ottawa, ON – Mavericks
5/23 St. Catharines, ON – Coco Cabana
5/24 Windsor, ON – Serbian Center
5/25 London, ON – Rum Runners


The Contortionist Enter The Studio For New Album:

“We’re pretty stoked to be in the studio again, especially with Jamie King. Some of my favorite records have come out of this corner of the woods, here in Winston-Salem, NC. We’re also unquestionably psyched about Mike Lessard‘s voice on these new tracks. This record seems to be a good mix of old and new TC, and Mike‘s wide range of animal noises should make this one a real banger.”


Finch To Release New Album This Year: