01 JANUARY

GRANDE UPDATE:
Happy New Year everyone! Let’s hope the the New Year will bring health and peace to all! If I’d ask for better releases that would have been too much?... No just kidding... 2006 was a very good year for rock music... and I believe that 2007 will be an even better one... Keep on rockin’ and see ya all in 2007... Enjoy and do whatever you like... Let’s get rocked!!! A small update (as things didn’t work out as I have planned them) but for the next week there will be more things for sure... check out the CD reviews and see on you own... Rock on dudes...

ICED EARTH:
Posted by Jon Schaffer on icedearth.com:
Hello All,
Again I have to apologize for the delay in updates. I've been extremely busy with writing and pre-production for the new IE CD's. I also lost the one person that was my true mentor and inspiration throughout my life, which was very difficult. My Father, Tom Schaffer, died unexpectedly of a massive stroke in October. He was 67, and died two weeks before his 68th birthday. It's hard to imagine what my life would have been like without my Dad's influence. I would not be who I am today, that's for sure. Fortunately, he was able to travel with the band a few times, and he really enjoyed meeting and talking with the fans. He was there for the Alive in Athens recording and was dubbed Papa Earth by some of the fans in Greece. I will miss him very much.
Obviously, this had a huge impact on me and brought the writing to a halt for about a month. I'm back on track and we are going to start recording on February 1st. We will be releasing a single/EP in June '07 that will feature the Something Wicked trilogy re-recorded and a track that will be an alternate edit of a song that will be on Something Wicked Part 2 that now has a working title of "Come What May." The label was wanting me to do something with the original trilogy to reintroduce the story. So, what we have in store for you is very cool. You will hear "Prophecy," "Birth of the Wicked," and "The Coming Curse" in a new way that will be a very killer way to kick off this massive epic. I don't want to give you any details to spoil the surprise, but trust me, it's going to be awesome. "Something Wicked (Part 1)" will be released in the September/October '07 time frame and Part 2 will follow in January/February '08.
This is by far the most epic task I've ever taken on as a songwriter and I really feel like it will be worth all the sacrifice when it's finished. I've been working nonstop for over a year now and it's coming together in a very special way. I've just about finished all the musical arrangements and am now focusing on writing the lyrics/vocal melodies. I'm in the final stretch now...
Tim Mills has contributed a few really cool pieces of music and has shown a real interest in the whole "Something Wicked" story, and a real passion for being involved with the band. All this while owning and operating his own company (Bare Knuckle Pickups). I'm impressed, it's a rare quality, believe me.
Also, the bass player on the next record is a local boy from Indianapolis whose name is James "Bo" Wallace. Bo is a killer player and a great personality. I went to see him perform several months ago and was impressed with his abilities, energy and passion. He played with Ma Kelley for many years and released several records on a fewdifferent independent labels. Without a doubt, Bo is a great bass player and I'm happy to have him working with Iced Earth.
Here's a list of working titles for the upcoming epic. There will likely be changes but this gives you an idea of where things are going.
Something Wicked - Part 1:
1.) Overture 2.) Something Wicked (Part 1) 3.) Invasion 4.) Man's Motivation 5.) The Setian Massacre 6.) Ghost Dance Ritual 7.) Reflections 8.) Ten Thousand Strong 9.) Execution 10.) Order of the Rose 11.) The Clouding 12.) Infiltrate and Assimilate 13.) Retribution From the Shadows 14.) Something Wicked (Part 2) 15.) The Domino Decree 16.) The Division of Religion (Man Needs God) 17.) Novo Ordo Seclorum (Cycle Of A New Age).
Something Wicked - Part 2:
1.) The Sacred Flames 2.) Behold the Wicked Child 3.) Minions of the Watch 4.) A Gift Or A Curse? 5.) I Walk Among You 6.) My Burden, My Honor 7.) Ancient Rage of the High Priest 8.) A Gathering Threat 9.) Time Marches On 10.) Sacrificial Kingdoms 11.) Something Wicked (Part 3) 12.) Divide Devour 13.) Conspiracy / A Charge to Keep 14.) Come What May (Mankind Is Lost).
Happy New Year to all!
Jon.

ROYAL HUNT:
Posted on royalhunt.com...
Happy New Year, everybody! We'd like to thank you for your support in 2006 and wish you all the best in 2007… now here are a few things we'll be entertaining you with in the New Year:
A new album is in the works – recordings will start during the summer, so we're expecting it to be released in Oct/Nov 2007. Fans of the “large format bombastic soundscapes” – rejoice! We've started to review the video footage for the future re-packaging/re-release of the two of our live concerts : “1996” and “Closing the Chapter” - no release dates as of yet, but we'll keep you posted. We'll be playing some shows this early spring, so keep an eye on this and TOUR pages. Now let the corks fly and champagne flow – Happy New Year!

24 DECEMBER

GRANDE UPDATE:
Merry Christmas to all, here we are with the update before Christmas as I have told you before... there will be another update before the New Years Day, so stay tuned. Check out the CD Reviews section which has a lot of new reviews, the DVD reviews section where you will find 3 new DVDs and of course The Best Albums and The Surprises of The Month can be seen at the left side of this page (the Best Album of December was added as well). Check also the very interesting interview with Alex Espinosa of Hotwire and do not forget to come back again before the New Years Day...

WINGER:
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Winger “Demo Anthology” on March 23rd 2007. Comprising of all the demos recorded by Winger during the 80’s and early 90’s, in preparation of their multi million selling albums “Winger”, “In The Heart of The Young” and “Pull”, the “Demo Anthology” will be a very special 2CD release that includes the following tracklisting:
CD1:
Madalaine; Hungry; Seventeen, State Of Emergency; Time To Surrender; Hangin’ On; Headed For A Heartbreak; Only Love (*); Can’t Get Enough; Loosen Up; Easy Come Easy Go; Rainbow In The Rose; In The Day We’ll Never See; Under One Condition; Little Dirty Blonde; Star Tripper (*); You Are The Saint I Am The Sinner; In The Heart of The Young.
CD2:
All I Ever Wanted (*); Skin Tight (*); Never (*); Someday Someway (*); Blind Revolution Mad; Down Incognito; Spell I’m Under; Hour Of Need; Junkyard Dog; The Lucky One; In For The Kill; No Man’s Land; Like A Ritual; Who’s The One; Written In The Wind (*); Until There Was You (*); Without Warning (*); Give Me More (*)
(*) denotes a song which is unavailable on album.
“I think this is a very interesting release from a fan’s perspective” says Kip Winger, “it shows how much the songs 
progressed from the early stages and also gives the fans the possibility to discover some hidden gems never released 
on any album, but that I thought was time to somehow release officially”.
Winger have – in the meanwhile – announced the US tour dates in support of the recently released “IV” album.
Dec 31 2006 - Station Square Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 
Feb 1 2007 - Mulcahy's Long Island, New York 
Feb 2 2007 - Harper's Ferry Boston, Massachusetts 
Feb 3 2007 - Stone Pony Asbury Park, New Jersey 
Feb 5 2007 - Webster Theatre Hartford, Connecticut 
Feb 7 2007 - Amos' Southend Charlotte, North Carolina 
Feb 10 2007 - The Culture Room Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 
Feb 11 2007 - State Theater St. Petersburg, Florida 
Feb 12 2007 - Mojo Room Port St. Lucie, Florida 
Feb 15 2007 - House of Blues Cleveland, Ohio 
Feb 16 2007 - Alrosa Villa Columbus, Ohio 
Feb 17 2007 - Harpo's Detroit, Michigan 
Feb 18 2007 - House Of Blues Chicago, Illinois 
Feb 22 2007 - The Yukon Loveland, Colorado 
Feb 23 2007 - Jake's Tavern Gilette, Wyoming 
Feb 24 2007 - Hubba's House of Rock & Roll Denver, Colorado
Feb 25 2007 - Mesa Theater Grand Junction, Colorado 
Mar 2 2007 - Velvet Jones Santa Barbara, California 
Mar 3 2007 - Galaxy Anaheim, California 
Mar 5 2007 - Metal Skool @ Key Club Los Angeles, California 
Mar 8 2007 - The Palladium Dallas, Texas 
Mar 9 2007 - Scout Bar Houston, Texas
More dates will be added soon with possible spring concerts in Europe as well.

PLACES OF POWER:
Frontiers Records is happy to introduce one of the most exciting new signings ever! PLACES OF POWER is a new monicker behind which two familiar faces are hiding the beginning of their newest collaboration.
Bruce Turgon (ex FOREIGNER, SHADOW KING, LOU GRAMM, ATOMIC PLAYBOYS) and Philip Bardowell (ex UNRULY CHILD, MAGDALEN) have started working together on a blistering set of new songs and have christened this new partnership as PLACES OF POWER: a name which, according to Turgon, "is very strong and meaningful to this project".
"Philip and I have a great working relationship and we have both a personal and shared inner vision" comments Turgon about this new venture, adding "we've spoken a lot about the kind of record we wanted to make and we found out we were exactly on the same page musically".
The fans can expect a magnificent melodic Hard Rock release, set to blend the best elements of Turgon's songwriting  and musicianship together with the acclaimed powerful vocals from Bardowell, in order to create a real musical milestone akin to the best FOREIGNER and SHADOW KING albums. Something to get very excited about and that is planned to be released at the end of the summer 07.
Both Philip Bardowell and Bruce Turgon are Frontiers Records recording artists. Bardowell released his album “In The Cut” is September 2005 while Turgon debuted as a solo artist with “Outside Looking In” in the November of the same year. Both albums gathered rave reviews from the press, including:
“So many albums are released and reviewed, yet this one stands out as something a little different and something a little special. 2005 has been a year for the lesser known names and the surprise releases. Add Bruce Turgon to that list” - Melodicrock.com
“The music on Turgon's classy solo album reminds a lot of the albums he's been involved in the past so all fans of  Foreigner will have a feast for sure. High quality AOR at your service!” - Melodic.net
“Bruce has crafted one of the best AOR/melodic hard rock albums of the year! Especially the fans of Foreigner will be pleased by this release!” - Rock Report
“Philip Bardowell released a mighty fine album filled with glorious AOR that will appeal to both fans of the old-school  traditional sound of this genre and fans of more current releases” - Melodicrock.com
“I consider Philip Bardowell a true asset in these rather meagre times for our beloved AOR/melodic rock genre” - Rock Report.

BLOOD STAIN CHILD:
Blood Stain Child charted on Number 4 in the editor's poll of Germany's Metal Hammer and Number 6 in Rock Hard Megazine!
If you wanna get an impression what's this five-piece about, read the European press:
I didn't think of it: A Modern Melodic Death Metal band from the Land of the Rising sun - and them having international potential and format! With their debut "Idolator" Blood Stain Child present a fat, driving album with influences like In Flames, Children of Bodom (the later for the dominating keyboard melodies and loops) and comparable to bands like The Duskfall or our German heroes Dark Age. (...) Tue Madsen did a great job with it as well. Those ten songs are hits - seems like they had an extra eye on really strong choruses. Visual Kei Death? Why not! Try this! Andreas Kais, Metal Heart.
If you would let Blood Stain Child's singer Ryo sing in front of an aquarium, the ready-to-eat Sushi would swim on the surface within almost 10 seconds. This is one of the most aggressive voices I've heard for ages!

THUNDER:
Thunder announced the European tour dates for their 2007 Spring tour in support of the newly released album “Robert Johnson’s Tombstone”. Those are: 
Thursday 1 March - SPAIN, Madrid, Heneken
Friday 2 March - SPAIN, Barcelona, Razzmatazz 2
Saturday 3 March - SPAIN, Bergara, Sala Jam
Monday 5 March - FRANCE, Paris, La Boule Noire
Tuesday 6 March - BELGIUM, Vosselar, Biebob
Wednesday 7 March - HOLLAND, Zoetemeer, Boerderij
Friday 9 March - DENMARK, Copenhagen, The Rock
Saturday 10 March - DENMARK, Frederikshavn, Det Musiske Hus
Sunday 11 March - NORWAY, Oslo, Rockefeller
Tuesday 13 March - FINLAND, Tampere, Pakkahoune
Friday 16 March - POLAND, Warsaw, TBA
Saturday 17 March – CZECH REP., Prague, Retro Music Hall 
Sunday 18 march - AUSTRIA, Vienna, Szene Wien
Tuesday 20 March - AUSTRIA, Salzburg, Rockhouse
Wednesday 21 March - GERMANY, Munich, Metropolis
Thursday 22 March - GERMANY, Hannover, Capitol
Saturday 24 March - GERMANY, Bochum, Matrix
Sunday 25 March - GERMANY, Stuttgart, LKA
Tuesday 27 March - ITALY, Milan, Rainbow
Wednesday 28 March - SWITZERLAND, Pratteln, Z7
It is also now possible to enjoy THUNDER’s brand new video “The Devil Made Me Do It” on Youtube.com following this 
link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Z9fb98jgDc... Don’t miss it!

METALMANIA FESTIVAL:
The 21st edition of Metalmania Festival - the biggest metal fest in Central-Eastern Europe - will take place on 24th  March 2007 in Spodek Hall in Katowice, Poland. As usual there will be two stages where around 25 bands will perform for thousands of metal freaks!!!!
Testament is the first band to be confirmed to perform on the main stage during Metalmania Festival 2007. The American band was meant to perform already at Metalmania festival in 2006, however, owing to the unclear politics of the band's concert agency Maximus Entertainment, it did not come to pass, for which the agency apologized. But the band themselves did not forget about their Polish fans and accepted with pleasure the invitation to the 2007 edition of the festival. Let us remind you that Testament is a thrash metal legend which has been active since 1983 and which enjoys an almost maniac adoration by their fans. Not only did those Americans from San Francisco create the foundations of the thrash metal genre, but they also developed their own distinctive sound which won them a stable position in the metal Pantheon, next to such bands as Metallica, Slayer and Megadeth. At the Metalmania Festival the band will perform in their classic line-up: Chuck Billy (vocals), Alex Skolnick (guitar), Eric Peterson (guitar), Greg Christian (bass) plus a guest musician from Craddle of Filth: Nicholas Baker (drums). It is with pride and joy to invite to such a gig, which is going to be one of the most important musical events in 2007!
The complete list of the Artists to perform at Metalmania Festival to be announced very soon.
Bands who are interested in performing on the small stage of the Festival can still send their application to the following e-mail address: sidestage@metalmind.com.pl.
METALMANIA FESTIVAL 2007
24.03.2007
Spodek Hall, Katowice, Poland
2 stages - 25 bands - details to be announced soon!!!!
DOORS OPEN: 9 a.m.
SMALL STAGE: 9.30 a.m.
MAIN STAGE: 10.30 a.m.
Ticket prices: 
floor and red sections: 35 / 38 € (on the day of the show)
sections H and J 45 / 48 € (on the day of the show)
VIP section 58 / 60 € (on the day of the show)
*** SPECIAL OFFER ***
Until 31st December 2006 tickets for the floor section are available for 25 € each (offer limited to first 500 tickets)!
*** SPECIAL OFFER ***
For more info about tickets please call: +48 32 205 25 00 (ext. 101), e-mail: koncerty@metalmind.com.pl or visit: 
www.metalopolis.pl. 
To buy tickets please call +48 32 205 25 00 (ext. 187), + 48 32 253 77 60, e-mail: shop@metalopolis.com.pl or visit: www.metalopolis.pl.

KINGDOM COME:
Kingdom Come launched the video for the title track of their brand new album “Ain’t Crying For The Moon” on Youtube.com. You can watch it following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRxx6sTpDU4. Enjoy!

FRONTIERS RECORDS ON HOLIDAY… WITH A TWIST!:
Frontiers Records wishes to extend to everyone – artists, music fans, journalists, customers and their families – their  heartfelt best wishes for a healthy and prosperous new year 2007 and a relaxing and joyful Christmas. The office will  be closed until the 8th of January so all communications will be resumed from that date onwards.
As a special Christmas present, Frontiers decided to allow the fans the possibility to stream previews of not one but four upcoming releases from exciting newcomers on its new myspace page: www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.
Fans will be able to discover INDIGO DYING, TWO OF A KIND, LOS ANGELES and one track from the upcoming DANTE FOX new album.
The new INDIGO DYING album, due in April/May 2007 was produced, recorded and mixed by Fabrizio Grossi at Noize Factor in Canyon Country, California with additional recording at The Studio in Huntington, New York by Don Chaffin. The lineup is formed by Gisa Vatcky (vocals), Mordechai "Mordy" Hauser (guitar), Fabrizio Grossi (bass, orchestrations, programming) of GLENN HUGHES / STARBREAKER fame, John Macaluso (drums) ex YNGWIE MALMSTEEN / RIOT / TNT, Jamie Teramo (keyboards, piano) with special appearances of Michael Kiske and Mark Boals (ex MALMSTEEN, RING OF FIRE) who will both appear singing duets with the female singer.
TWO OF A KIND is a new Melodic Rock combo masterminded by TERRA NOVA’s Fred Hendrix together with not one, but two female singers: Esther Brouns and Anita Craenmehr. After a few writing sessions, Fred submitted the plan for his new band with a great melodic rock edge in BOSTON meets HEART style to Frontiers Records, who immediately loved the material and signed the band ! The self-titled debut album will be released in March 2007. Lookout for live dates in the summertime!
DANTE’ FOX are coming back after a 7-years hiatus with their third studio album entitled “Under The Seven Skies”. 
Together with founding members Sue Willetts (vocals) and Tim Manford (guitars), we have now three new faces onboard: Mick Hales on drums (a veteran of the midlands rock scene), bass player Mike Dagnall and keyboard player / guitarist Roman Wieckowski. Recorded at the Mad Hat Studios (used by MAGNUM), the band has considerably gained maturity with their songwriting and offers a blazing new release which will please the existing fans and will gather new ones. The first track recorded: "Breakin’ Me Down" has already had heavy rotation on Steve Price's Show on ARFM, with great reaction and support. DANTE FOX are looking forward to the release of the album scheduled for March 2007.
LOS ANGELES presents the shining talents of Michele Luppi: an Italian amazing singer that cut his teeth in Los Angeles with Robin Randall (co-writer of hits for FM, Mark Free, James Christian etc) as his musical coach. Upon his return to Italy, he gathered considerable experience playing live with his band Mr Pig and later joining Prog Metal heroes VISION DIVINE. LOS ANGELES is Luppi’s personal tribute to the AOR greats that shaped his singing and songwriting abilities and also features Fabrizio Grossi, Tommy Denander and Frankie De Grasso. While Luppi’s astounding vocals can be described as Mark Free meets Eric Martin, LOS ANGELES is a true AOR beauty not to be missed when it will be released in the Spring ‘07!

JOURNEY:
Jeff Scott Soto has been officially named the new lead singer of Journey. He had been filling in for Steve Augeri, who  had to leave the U.S. tour with Def Leppard shortly after it began on June 23 due to illness.
“We are so grateful to Steve for all the years he dedicated to Journey,” says Journey in a joint statement. “We thank  Steve for all his hard work and we wish him only the best in his future endeavors. Over the past few months, we’ve  come to realize that Jeff has proven himself above and beyond that he can sing the hell out of our songs and we’re happy to officially welcome him as part of the family. We’re excited to start a new chapter with Jeff and we’re excited about what the future may bring”.
Steve Augeri states: “Singing for Journey these last eight years have been the most challenging and the most rewarding of my career. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the band, and especially the fans, for the privilege of being part of a musical legacy that has touched so many hearts and souls. I wish my fellow band mates success and happiness as they continue to make great music in the future, as I will strive to do the same myself”.
Jeff Soto also adds, “With delight & pleasure, I am accepting the offer to continue my tenure with Journey now as  their permanent vocalist after the amazing past months we have spent together on tour. I also pay high respect to  Steve Augeri for coming in and helping Journey continue their legacy for nearly the last decade and to Steve Perry for co-creating this legacy. I hope to now add and help drive Journey into the next stage of this bands future”.
Since Soto’s first appearance with Journey on July 7 in Bristow, VA, his performances have been garnering rave reviews. To wit:
“Right off the bat, Journey’s new lead singer is fantastic. Jeff Scott Soto is a supremely talented vocalist who handled  with ease the many sky-high notes and the mile-long range in Journey s repertoire. Steve Perry fans have never gotten over the original lead singer s departure from the band, but I am here to tell you this guy rocks the role. And yes, if you close your eyes he sounds just like Perry, but -- dare I say it? -- maybe even more passionate and full of verve. Hits such as ‘I will Be Alright Without You’ and ‘Wheel in the Sky’ showcased his mighty voice.” --Lorilee Craker, Grand Rapids Press “The one-time Yngwie Malmsteen vocalist channeled (Steve) Perry flawlessly, nailing all the high notes and then some... Soto’s got it going on.” --Christopher John Treacy, Boston Herald. “Could Soto cut it? Yes. And then some. His vocals and stage presence were impressive.” --Dave Ferman, Ft.Worth Star-Telegram. “Soto is a really strong vocalist, so instead of struggling to emulate (Steve) Perry’s laser-beam vibrato, he can get  away with a style that mixes grainy power with effortless key changes.” --Johnny Loftus, Metro Times Detroit. Steve Augeri is currently recording his debut solo album, In the Moment, due out the summer of 2007. He’s also putting the finishing touches on the much-anticipated follow-up to the AOR classic Tall Stories album, launching early next year. For more info, visit Steve Augeri Website.
Journey--Neal Schon (guitar), Ross Valory (bass), Jonathan Cain (keyboards), Deen Castronovo (drums) and Jeff Scott Soto (vocals)—are currently mapping out plans for 2007.
March 2007:
THU 01 Sheffield, UK
FRI 02 Newcastle, UK
SAT 03 Glasgow, Scotland 
MON 05 Nottingham, UK
TUE 06 Manchester, UK
WED 07 Manchester, UK
FRI 09 Cardiff, Wales 
SAT 10 Bournemouth, UK
TUE 13 Birmingham, UK
WED 14 London, UK 
THU 15 Newcastle, UK 
SAT 17 Karlsruhe, Germany 
MON 19 Cologne, Germany 
TUE 20 Amsterdam, Netherlands
THU 22 Pratteln, Switzerland
SAT 24 Madrid, Spain

TUNES OF GREY:
The gothic metal band Tunes Of Grey released their first demo, entitled "Fading to Grey", which has the following five  tracks:
01 - My Ending Justify My Path 02 - Die To Live 03 - Live Forever 04 - Making Love (In The Cemetery Ground) 05 - Fire In My Veins.
The band' influences come from the "finnish school" formed by bands like To Die For, Charon, HIM and Poisonblack, to the complexity and instrumental beauty of bands like Opeth and Dream Theater, with a passional and romantic touch present in the literature of J. W. Goethe and fatalist of Herman Hesse, forming the identity which is presented in the form of Tunes of Grey. The demo is already receiving good response from the fans and press. In the first review, made by the All The Bangers webzine, besides of receiving the highest score, the cd was described as "great" and "catchy, but melancholic", great comments were also made about the musicians and production. Some samples of Fading to Grey are available in the band's website - www.tunesofgrey.com.br and MySpace - 
www.myspace.com/tunesofgrey.

16 DECEMBER

GRANDE UPDATE:
Here we are with one more update before the new year... there will totally be at least one more update before Christmas and another before the New Year so keep looking back for new stuff. Server problems appeared again and we were down for a couple of days and some e-mails returned back to the senders, so please send them again. Anyway, check out the CD Reviews section which has a lot of new reviews, the Demos section and of course The Best Albums and The Surprises of The Month can be seen at the left side of this page (new album were added as well). Read also the very interesting interview with Danny Bowes of Thunder and be sure that there is a lot of stuff to be added before the New Year... c ya all soon...

PRIDE OF LIONS:
Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Pride Of Lions brand new studio album entitled “The Roaring of Dreams” on February 16th 2007. “With this album”, says guitarist/vocalist/keyboardist Jim Peterik “we strove to emphasize all the elements that we are best noted for: big hooks, soaring melodies, clever modulations, inspiring messages, the rock-solid Pride Of Lions band and of course Toby Hitchcock’s amazing vocal range and talent”. And indeed Toby seems to have hit his stride this time out. With vocal tour de forces such as the classic style power ballad “Faithful Heart” and the all-stops-out rocker “Heaven On Earth”, his development can be clearly heard. “We knew this was a make or break album for Pride of Lions. We put it all out there on the Live Album/DVD: the past and the present. This album is what our future is all about ”, Peterik adds: “When we sat down with Serafino (President of Frontiers Records) last year, he suggested that Pride of Lions return to the more commercial and hook-oriented music of our first album and the Vital Signs album. I must say I was ready to do just that”!
You will hear the fruits of that conversation on melodic nuggets such as the City Boy inspired “Let Me Let You Go” and the non-stop drive of “Defying Gravity”. Another standout is “Language Of The Heart: “I must admit I was thinking of the song we used as our opener in my Survivor years, “Feels Like Love” when I wrote this one. It has the same energy and drive” says Jim. In this and every other track, the power of Ed Breckenfeld on drums, Klem Hayes on bass, Mike Aquino on guitar and Christian Cullen on keyboards is stronger than ever. Also, the production team of Jim Peterik and Larry Millas is back in force and the sound is clearer than ever.
The themes that Jim’s songs are noted for are all present and accounted for. The title track, “The Roaring of Dreams”  traces the lives of two frustrated people whose only escape from their humdrum lives is the dreams that they hold sacred in their hearts - the hope for a better future. “Book of Life” challenges us to be all that we can be, “Are you just a footnote, or will you rise to fill it’s pages, you were born to rock the ages, write a brand new chapter in the Book Of Life”. And to find the definitive song on a man dealing with infidelity, you need to look no farther than the album’s closing track, “Turnaround” featuring a cameo vocal by Tori Hitchcock, Toby’s gifted 21 year old sister. The song plays out like a mini operetta complete with vocal counterpoint and soaring guitar leads shared by Mike Aquino and Jim Peterik.
With “The Roaring of Dreams”, this band is finally destined to outrun their individual pasts and take their place as a force to be reckoned with on their own terms. Their terms are great Melodic Rock and their name is Pride Of Lions!
Final tracklisting of “The Roaring of Dreams” includes the following songs (click on the song title to hear an mp3 sample):
Heaven Of Earth; Book Of Life; Love’s Eternal Flame; Language Of The Heart; Let Me You Go; Faithful Heart; Defying Gravity; Secret Of The Way; Astonish You; Tall Ships; Turnaround; The Roaring Of Dreams.
Release is scheduled on February 16th 2007 on Frontiers Records in Europe, with King Records handling Japan.

SLASH PUPPET:
Starting first with Slash Puppet. Most people know Slash Puppet for their stunning 1993 self-titled release but what a lot of people don’t know is that they had an awesome debut album they released in 1989 as a cassette only issue. Suncity Records will be presenting their classic debut with all the typical Suncity perks. Once again, this album has been going for top dollar on Ebay and for a very good reason. Slash Puppet’s major features are great attitude, massive gang backing vocals, excellent production and an awesome image. You couldn’t really ask for more in a hard rock release.
After well over a year trying to hunt down the masters, with many leads from many people, we have finally got lucky big time!! These classic recordings will be presented in their full glory and believe me, they sound better than ever. Better news yet, this CD will be released early 2007.
I was never lucky enough to see Slash Puppet live in concert but from all reports they really ripped it up, with a stage show that had more energy than a nuclear power plant. When it comes to the music, think Skid Row, Britny Fox, think fellow Canadians Smash L.A., Slik Toxik, Sweden’s finest Swedish Erotica, even the great Polish outfit, Lessdress. Vocalist Mif’s attitude will jump out of your speakers, grab you by the scruff of the throat and wack you over the head from the very first second of the very first track. Make sure to check out lead vocalist, Mif’s awesome My Space site at - www.myspace.com/mifmaster. Check out the track “Evil Woman” off the upcoming Self Titled album for a great idea of how good these guys really are.

GENIUS ROCK OPERA:
After two long years the wait is over. The third and final episode of the Genius Rock Opera, written and performed by the Italian multitalented musician Daniele Liverani, is now ready to be unleashed to its devoted fans on February 16th 2007! This last chapter of the trilogy entitled “The Final Surprise” will reveal what happened to Genius and his guide Twinspirits 32 at the end of their long journey into dreams' world.
We left the two main characters on the threshold of the Asian fantasies warehouse, in front of a dark underworld. They were aware that the little prince was there, hidden in one of those warehouses, but they soon realised they were in front of a huge maze, full of an infinite number of fantasy warehouses.
Now... which one was the toy warehouse where the prince was hidden? Running through almost 80 minutes of various music styles, the listener will be led by the storyteller (Philip Bynoe) through the final events of the saga and discover what happened to Genius once he woke up to go back to reality world.
You will finally learn if the little prince will be saved, and if the dreams world will be safe forever. Lots of titanic vocal 
duels are featured in this episode including the amazing duet performed by characters Twinspirits 32 (Daniel Gildenlow of Pain Of Salvation) and Apikor (Jorn Lande, ex Masterplan) and between Twinspirits 32 (Daniel Gildenlow) and Genius (this time performed by a majestic DC Cooper of Silent Force). Other great singers give their interpretation of the characters in this final episode: Eric Martin as Mr. Niko, Toby Hitchcock (of Pride Of Lions) as Senator Jeramus and Andrea Dätwyler (of Lunatica) as Kokeshi Doll. This breathtaking episode of Genius' is the final act and an amazing mind trip into the unknown parallel dimension where dreams are created. The dream is over but don’t miss the surprises this Opera still has in store! Drum tracks for the album were laid as usual by Dario Ciccioni, while Oliver Hartmann took care of the monster chorus vocal work.
Tracklisting of the album includes the following songs:

Toy Warehouse; No More Chances; Save Me From My Destiny; Alive and Safe; Jump Off This Train; Let Me Live; Inside These Memories; I Die; Back To Life Again; Dream In Liberty; The Final Surprise.
Release date of the album has been set on February 16th 2007 on Frontiers Records, with a release in Japan 
scheduled on King Records.

WHILE HEAVEN WEPT:
Cruz Del Sur Music announces to have reached an agreement with the Epic Doom legend, While Heaven Wept for the release of their new album “Vast Oceans Lachrymose” in late 2007. As reported by the band’s official website (www.whileheavenwept.com), “Although there were many fair and generous offers from various entities after the untimely closure of Black Lotus Records, we felt that working with CDSM would be the best option for us at this time, and that aside, several members of our "extended musical family" including Slough Feg and Widow are part of the ever-growing (and strengthening) roster”.
Concerning the release of “Vast Oceans Lachrymose” WHW’s mastermind Tom Philips said: “we're very much looking forward to delivering the most epic, diverse, and bastard heavy WHW album thus far via Cruz Del Sur, and we'll start making free samples available to the public during the first quarter of 2007, up until the albums actual release”.

PUPPET SHOW:
Intricate arrangements, incredible drumming, innovative bass/ guitar/ keyboard interplay, and imaginative vocals all begin to describe Puppet Show - a group of musicians based in the heart of Northern California's "Silicon Valley." Formed in 1994, the group plays music that combines fluent melodic work with odd meters and strong vocals. 
As a bonus, their songs also come complete with multiple sections, instrumental breaks, a solo or two, quiet and loud parts, and occasional snoring. The band garnered critical acclaim for their Bay Area live performances in the 1990s including standout gigs at East Bay Prog Day and headlining the Expose Concert Series premier event. Response to the release of Puppet Show's debut album "Traumatized" in 1998 was so strong that the band also got the opportunity to play at the international festivals Baja Prog and ProgFest in the following years.
After a great start, the future of the band began to look uncertain in 2000 when it appeared as if various otherwise-positive life events might deal a fatal blow to Puppet Show. "Real" jobs, family matters, and a few drummer changes slowed down the pace of the band's efforts to complete their follow-up album. Despite the setbacks, and through long periods of little progress, the band persevered and worked through the many obstacles encountered during the writing and recording for the group's long-awaited and aptly-titled second release - "The Tale Of Woe". Mike Grimes of Puppet Show said, "We're excited to be teaming up with ProgRock Records to release our second album - "The Tale Of Woe". We like what the label is doing and feel that Puppet Show's music is a good stylistic fit, so when given the opportunity it was easy for the band to decide to sign with ProgRock".
"For me Puppet Show was one of the early bands that showed me American prog was still alive and well, along with their label mates at Kinesis, they were all breaking new ground, so it was both a treat and a surprise to suddenly hear from the band that a new album was done and it was my pleasure to be able to work with them on their comeback and I'm especially pleased that they will be performing at the Rites of Spring Festival in April 2007", Shawn Gordon, President of ProgRock Records said.
"The Tale of Woe" is the second album by Puppet Show and the first on ProgRock Records. The CD can be found here. Inspired by bands like Genesis and UK, they have a sound all their own, but will also appeal to fans of those bands. The album is available for immediate order and will ship in early January 2007. The CD is discounted $2 during the pre-order period.

CRYSTAL BALL:
Swiss like to rock! With acts like Gotthard, Krokus and Crystal Ball the Swiss scene is among the finest and healthiest around. Crystal Ball started as a cover band but soon began to create their own sound by performing more 
than one hundred concerts in their first two years as a unit. Crystal Ball have been rising to fame amongst the fans of hard and melodic sounds with their trademark mixture of melodic Hard Rock and Power Metal. After recording 4 studio albums and touring through Europe as support of well known bands like Gotthard, Krokus, Dokken, Doro, U.D.O., Pretty Maids, Bonfire, Pink Cream 69 and others with 450 shows almost in a row, they now come back with a dynamic and melodic hard rock album of finest quality.
"TimeWalkeri" was their latest release, the fifth full length in the band's still brief yet intense history. The album was a concept album with a journey through different historical events and was produced by Stefan Kaufmann (ex-Accept, U.D.O.). Now Crystal Ball is back and already entered the studio for a brand new studio album. The line-up is as strong and tight as ever with long-time singer Mark Sweeney, guitar player Scott Leach and Marcel Sardella on drums. The album is scheduled for spring 2007 and the band have already announced some festivals, while a proper tour will follow later the year. Mark Sweeney: "We are ready to rock and you can a expect a great piece of Swiss Hardrock"! The release is scheduled for April / May 2007. More details coming soon!

NIGHT RANGER:
Frontiers Records is immensely proud to officially announce the signing of Night Ranger for the release of their brand new studio album “Hole in the Sun”! Like no other band formed in the ‘80s, Night Ranger has both epitomized and transcended the sound and style of that decade. Since original members Jack Blades, Jeff Watson, Kelly Keagy and Brad Gillis reunited in 1996, they have brought their guitar-crunching, melodic brand of hard rock into the 21st century with unparalleled talent, energy and creativity. Night Ranger left an indelible mark with a string of best-selling albums that sold more than 16 million copies worldwide. 
The band’s popularity was fueled by an impressive string of instantly recognizable hit singles and signature album tracks, including “Sister Christian,” “(You Can Still) Rock In America,” “When You Close Your Eyes,” “Sentimental Street,” “Goodbye” and “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me.” Harnessing the frenetic drive of heavy metal to hook-laden rockers, a stunning twin lead guitar team, and melodious, radio-friendly power ballads, Night Ranger inspired new descriptive phrases such as “melodic metal” and “metal power pop,” and became the standard-bearer of a new sound.
Following a seven-year absence, Night Ranger reunited in 1996 for a World tour. The overwhelming response proved the continued love for the music and the band. That year also garnered the Ron Nevison produced album “Neverland”, featuring the radio friendly single “Forever All Over Again.” In 1997, the three-time Oscar-nominated film “Boogie Nights” spotlighted “Sister Christian” as one of the songs that defined the previous decade. Also that year, the band released “Seven”, a studio album that helped set the standard for the ‘80s rock revival.
Since then Night Ranger members have been busy individually in several solo projects, while the band kept active touring across the USA and Japan. Writing and recording sessions for a brand new studio album started at the end of 2005, with progresses in between the busy schedules of the band members. “I can’t believe it is almost 2007!” admits bass player and singer Jack Blades “Most of the songs were written at the end of 2005 and recording happened at my Barn Studio (The Cock and Bottle studio) and Jeff's studio (Camp Watson)”.
“I think you just keep making records and writing the songs that are in your heart”, continues Blades. “As long as we continue to write and record with passion and integrity, (which we have done) I believe the fans will enjoy the ride. I personally am very proud of all the records Night Ranger has made over the 20 plus years of our career. This record reflects the years of touring so it rocks pretty hard. It also speaks to where the band is musically in 2006. Lots of split vocals and dual guitars”.
With song titles as “There is Life”, “Tell your Vision”, “Drama Queen”, “Rock Star”, “White Knuckle Ride” and “Whatever Happened” Night Ranger music and attitude has now come full circle. “Great melodies, blazing guitars and fun crazy rocking live shows... it is all we know how to do”, admits Blades. We know we all can look forward to the release of “Hole in the Sun” during the spring of 2007!

MIKE TERRANA:
After 8 successful and great years together Mike has decided to leave Rage with immediate effect. States Mike: "This was no easy decision, but I strongly believe it is about time for something new for me. I had a great time in Rage and I don't want to miss to say "thank you so much" to all the fans who followed us over the last years. Your never-ending support has meant a lot to me and I honestly hope we all will see each other again very soon. Also I wish the guys in Rage good luck and success for their future".
Mike has recently taken over the drums in Masterplan who are about to release their new album on Feb 23rd, followed by a huge European tour (see tour dates below). Mike will also play more shows with Axel Rudi Pell this spring (those tourdates are attached as well).
Masterplan:
2007 Tour with Saxon and Rose Tattoo:
Feb. 28 - UK Glasgow Garage 
Mar. 02 - UK Belfast Spring & Airbrake 
Mar. 03 - IRL Dublin Temple Bar Music Centre 
Mar. 04 - UK Manchaster Academy 2 
Mar. 06 - UK Wolverhampton Civic Hall 
Mar. 07 - UK Nottingham Rock City 
Mar. 08 - UK Cardiff Coal Exchange 
Mar. 09 - UK London Astoria 
Mar. 10 - B Antwerpen Hof Ter Lo 
Mar. 11 - NL Amsterdam Paradiso 
Mar. 13 - GER Koln Live Music Hall 
Mar. 14 - GER Oberhausen Turbinenhalle 
Mar. 15 - GER Hamburg Markthalle 
Mar. 16 - GER Berlin Huxleys Neue Welt 
Mar. 17 - GER Leipzig Werk 2 
Mar. 18 - GER Lichtenfels Stadthalle 
Mar. 20 - GER Stuttgart Longhorn / LKA 
Mar. 21 - SWI Pratteln Z7 
Mar. 22 - F Toulouse Havana Cafe 
Mar. 23 - ES TBA TBA 
Mar. 24 - ES TBA TBA 
Mar. 25 - ES TBA TBA 
Mar. 26 - ES TBA TBA 
Mar. 27 - PT Porto Hard Club 
Mar. 29 - F Lyon Transbordeur 
Mar. 30 - F Paris Elysee Montmartre 
Apr. 12 - GER Saarbrucken Garage 
Apr. 13 - GER Langen Stadthalle 
Apr. 14 - GER Munchen Gro?e Elser Halle 
Apr. 15 - ITA Mailand Alcatraz 
Apr. 17 - ITA Rome Alpheus 
Apr. 20 - GRE Athens Gagarin 205 
Apr. 21 - GRE Thessaloniki Ydrogeios 
Apr. 22 - BLG Sofia TBA 
Apr. 24 - SER Beograd SKC 
Apr. 25 - CRO Zagreb Boogaloo Club 
Apr. 26 - HUN Budapest Petofi Hall 
Apr. 27 - AUT Wien Planet Music 
Apr. 28 - CZ Zlin Hala Novesta 
Apr. 29 - PL Krakow Club Studio 
Apr. 30 - PL Warszawa Stodola 
May 03 - EE Tallinn Rock Cafe 
May 04 - RUS St. Petersburg DS Jubileiny 
May 05 - FIN Helsinki Tavastia 
May 07 - SWE Umea Idun / Folkets Hus 
May 08 - SWE Stockholm Arenan 
May 09 - N Oslo Rockefeller 
May 10 - SWE Goteborg Tradgarn 
May 11 - SWE Malmo KB 
May 12 - GER Osnabruck Halle Gartlage 

MECCA:
Mecca frontman Joe Vana has recently released the news of Swedish guitarist Tommy Denander joining the Mecca lineup for the upcoming studio album. "Tommy Denander is one of the most hired and sought after writers, producers and guitar players today, and has turned down many offers from known bands to join them”, says Vana. “Even though he will keep making Radioactive albums, they are only a project and Mecca is a band, and as Tommy puts it "Not just any band! Tommy has accepted becoming a full member of the Mecca family. His track record of more than 1,000 albums and working almost every known name in rock speaks for itself, but as Tommy says "In some ways it's also what's required to become a member of Mecca, anything less just won't cut it, I take pride in the task of creating another dimension to my work together with Joe and the guys in Mecca".
Alongside of the great Bobby Kimball (TOTO) and Joe Vana on Lead Vocals, the Mecca line-up consists of Shannon Forrest (Drums), David Hungate (Bass), Gordon Mote (Keys) and Christian Wolff (guitar), with Steve Lukather and Steve Farris making an appearance as guest players on the album. The line-up is complete and stronger than ever. That is not to diminish the great contribution that Fergie Frederiksen and Jim Peterik gave to Mecca 1. Joe Vana adds "I can never repay those guys enough for their talent and contribution to making my dream a reality with Mecca 1. Sitting around Jim's piano writing songs for Mecca was a dream realized....I will never forget it".
"As far as the new album Catharsis goes, the writing synergy between Tommy and I so far has been amazing, we think so much alike in terms of melody and space but sounds very different melodically than what we both have done separately, so it truly is a union of ideas... this album will be a mix between Peter Gabriel and Mecca... I am going to push the Hell out of myself and Tommy to play and sing better than we ever have. Plus, I have the one of my closest friends Bobby singing next to me.... not to mention that he is the single greatest Rock singer ever. There is no 'almost good enough' for this album. We have four tunes that Richard Page gave us to record and 8 that we wrote. I waited three years to assemble the needed material to do this album. Every song had to be good enough to be on Mecca 1or better, or it didn't make it. Bobby will push me vocally to the edge, I'm not playing it safe this time”.
Bobby Kimball comments about the songs: "I'm not going to be nice about it, because that's not how great songs get written. We mortals have to put aside our feelings and go for what's best for the song....". Enough said.
Visit www.myspace.com/meccaofmusic to hear samples of the first two songs created by this new writing duo. Mecca will be completed first quarter of 2007 and released on Frontiers Records.

FROMUZ:
10T Records is excited to announce the signing of Fromuz, a 5 piece instrumental band from Uzbekistan (hence the name: From UZ) and the release of their debut CD/DVD "Audio Diplomacy", on February 20, 2007. The music of Fromuz is a high-energy blend of complex Progressive Rock, Jazz Fusion, and Improvisation, along with healthy doses of Classical and European influences.
Fromuz was officially introduced to the world through the compositions that they debuted in April 2005 at the Youth Theater of Uzbekistan, in Tashkent. This incredibly energetic and expressive live performance is testimony to the intense musical statement that is Fromuz. This seminal live performance, entitled "Playing the Imitation" (of life), was elaborately filmed and has been produced as a DVD, which is to be released in early 2007 along with the audio CD of the performance.
"When we first heard Fromuz, we were floored by their combination of intricate composition, fiery improvisation and their unique mix of classic progressive elements and fusion within a very modern sound", says 10T Records president Steve Carroll. "I believe that Fromuz is the perfect fit for 10T Records as we continue to seek out artists who strive for originality beyond genre borders".
Most recently Fromuz has been invited to perform at the 2007 edition of the Baja Prog Festival in Mexicali, Mexico. "Audio Diplomacy" will be released in plenty of time for everyone to familiarize themselves with this amazing act prior to their Baja Prog performance in March of next year. The artwork for the CD/DVD was created by Ken Westphal, known for his design work on both releases by Proto-Kaw.
"Audio Diplomacy" is available for immediate pre-order through the 10T Records website. All orders received between now and the official release date will ship by the end of the week prior to the officialrelease. Additionally, selected tracks from "Audio Diplomacy" are available to listen to in their entirety through the 10T Records website here.

JOURNEY:
Journey have recently confirmed the addition of a new tour date in Europe after the UK shows. The updated list for the confirmed spring ‘07 includes now the following shows:
Thu 01-march Sheffield, UK - Sheffield City Hall
Fri 02-march Newcastle, UK - Newcastle City Hall
Sat 03-march Glasgow, Scotland - Clyde Auditorium
Mon 05-march Nottingham, UK - Royal Centre
Tue 06-march Manchester, UK - Manchester Apollo
Wed 07-march Manchester, UK - Manchester Apollo
Fri 09-march Cardiff, UK - Cardiff International Centre
Sat 10-march Bournemouth, UK - Bournemouth International Centre
Tue 13-march Birmingham, UK - National Indoor Arena
Wed 14-march London, UK - Hammersmith Apollo
Thu 15-march Newcastle, UK - Newcastle City Hall
Sat 17- march Karlsruhe, Germany Europahalle
Mon 19- march Cologne, Germany E-work
Tue 20- march Amsterdam, Netherlands Paradiso
Thu 22- march Pratteln, Switzerland Z7
Sat 24- march Madrid, Spain La Riviera

EMPYRIUM:
As the title suggests, "A Retrospective..." is a look back on the work of Empyrium. Aside from re-mastered songs from all four studio albums, the CD contains two unreleased new tracks, "Der Weiher" and "Am Wolkenstieg", as well as a newly arranged and recorded version of "The Franconian Woods In Winter's Silence" (originally off "A Wintersunset...").
The CD will be released as a lavishly designed, gold-embossed Digibook. Many fans will be particularly interested in the in-depth band biography contained in the sixty-pages booklet of "A Retrospective ...". This text takes a closer look at the history of the band and all its influences music- and content-wise, and it will make transparent the whole artistic aspect of Empyrium and its changes in the course of years. Thus, it will contribute to a substantially deeper understanding of Empyrium.In tandem with the regular release of "A Retrospective...", there will be a six-CD box encompassing the complete works of Empyrium, including the demo "...der wie ein Blitz vom Himmel fiel..." and "A Retrospective...", in an elegant and identical Digibook design. Strictly limited to 500 copies. In addition to this, there will be re-issues of all previous albums in Digibook form, also limited to 500 copies each.

SOUTHERN LORD:
Southern Lord recording artists The Hidden Hand have put the finishing touches on their next epic masterpiece entitled "The Resurrection Of Whiskey Foote." “Resurrection”…is the 3rd Hidden Hand full-length (2nd from Southern Lord) and features the lineup that recorded the now sold out/out of print EP from last years: “Devoid Of Color” EP, comprised of Scott WINO Weinrich [Guitars, Vocals], Bruce Falkinburg [Bass] and Evan Tanner [Drums]. ROWF is not necessarily a concept album but it is heavily layered with historical story-based lyricism and themse. Musically there is a subtle southern or classic rock vibe (ala killer slide playing from Wino and even some Harp by Michael Anthony Miller) that creeps into the foundation of their brand of dark, heavy, progressive rock. The album will be released on CD and LP worldwide in February 2007. Shortly after the album was finished Evan Tanner left the band and was replaced by Matt Moulis (Medic, Bison). With this new lineup, the Hidden Hand will hit the road with Kylesa in the USA late Jan. thru Feb. A European tour is being planned for April.

ANA BLACK:
The other signing we have for you is wait for it... the signing of my favorite Canadian band ever in the excellent Hollywood legends, Ana Black. Just when you thought the hard rock heights of Motley Crue’s Dr. Feelgood would never be matched again, well every hard rock fan will be overwhelmed with how good this band are. To me, they are Canada’s answer to Motley. I truly believe they are just as good musically and in attitude and I don’t say that lightly.
Ana Black had a massive following in the late 80’s, early 90’s not only in their hometown of Kingston, Ottawa, Canada but they were one of the biggest hits on the world famous Sunset Strip in Hollywood, California. So much so they attracted interest from Sony/Epic Records. On the back of the major international success of Motley Crue’s Dr.  Feelgood, Sony thought these guys may just be the next big thing and therefore they were signed. Gearing up to push the album "Who Killed Hollywood?“ with all the money and backing Sony could throw at them, it was only 21 days before the dream was over. Nirvana’s "Smells Like Teen Sprit" hit the charts and the rest is history. The music scene was changed forever. Sony then did what every other record label did in the change over period and dropped Ana Black like a ton of bricks.
When I got in contact with Dizzy from Ana Black, he told me that they had a bunch of un-released material, probably around 50-60 tracks. I than had him send them to me thinking I would pick through them to get out 1 or 2 CD’s worth of material but there wasn’t a dud track to be heard. I then said to him “stuff it, lets release them all”. Dizzy, being not only one of the nicest rock stars I’ve ever met but also one of the nicest, level headed guys I have ever had the pleasure of meeting describes the music as having the attitude of Motley Crue/Guns 'N' Roses with the duel axe attack of Racer X. Not a bad mix if you ask me. I think the fans will really love these releases. I say releases because at this stage we just don’t know exactly how many tracks are in the vault but we are thinking from 4-6 Ana Black CD’s!! Now that’s exciting. I have never been more excited about the signing a band in Suncity Records’s brief history, I say that with the true belief that Ana Black is the epitome of what the late 80’s, early 90’s sleaze/hard rock was and is all about.
We have flown the original masters for Ana Black’s debut album, She’s A Tease from Canada over to Los Angeles to have the entire album re-mixed and re-mastered. She’s A Tease sounds 100 times better than the original LP released in 1987.
This is pure sleazed up attitude driven hard rock executed to perfection. These guys truly should have been huge!! Ana Black’s first album with Suncity Records will be the “Who Killed Hollywood” album that Sony had ready to go, this should be in every hard rock collector’s collection right next to Dr. Feelgood, Black In Black, Slippery When Wet, Hysteria, etc…
Dizzy and Dave are still heavily locked in the music industry, owning their very own studio out of Los Angeles and currently ripping it up in their new modern rock band, Nero Zero. This time Dizzy has put down the sticks and picked up the guitar and mic. I strongly recommend everyone who likes to dabble in hard rock with a modern twist to check out their My Space site at - www.myspace.com/nerozeromusic.
We still haven't been able to get our hands on a song for you to sample but watch this space in the next couple of days as we have been promised that some have been sent. Busy is an understatement for us right now as we will be announcing the signings of another 2 stunning bands in a couple of weeks. The next 2 bands to be announced have a more AOR flavor to them, this should keep everybody happy going into the new year.

LITTLE ATLAS:
Little Atlas is in the latter stages of completing their upcoming album, "Hollow". A concept album, "Hollow" details the lives of eight individuals, linked together by themes of alienation and loss. Tracks unfold as character studies told through a first person narrative. The music continues to develop the "Little Atlas sound", honed on "Wanderlust", but with more of an emphasis on studio production as a tool to enhance the storytelling. As with "Wanderlust", the new album is a fully co-written enterprise reflecting the collective influences and vision of Katsikas, Pocovi, Strattman, and Bigai.

DANNY VAUGHN:
Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Danny Vaughn’s new album “Traveller” on February 16th 2007. "Traveller is the best album of my career", proudly states Danny Vaughn. And that’s quite a challenge if you consider the high caliber of his musical output over the years.
Coming out of nowhere, he became the lead singer of Waysted in 1986 and released the band’s most highly acclaimed album, "Save Your Prayers". He learned his trade by opening up for Iron Maiden in stadiums and arenas around the world. From there, Danny formed the now legendary group, Tyketto, in 1990 and released "Don’t Come Easy", still regarded today as a benchmark in the Melodic Rock genre. Moving from strength to "Strength In Numbers" was a powerful follow up, but even with 150,000 albums sold, 3 videos and countless tours under his belt, the disappointing changes in the music industry in the mid 90's soon led Danny to, unhappily, leave the band.
In 1999 Danny reunited with former Tyketto companions: Michael Clayton Arbeeny and Jaimie Scott, to release two very well received albums, "Soldiers And Sailors On Riverside" and "Fearless", under the band name Vaughn. These were Danny’s songs, done in his own style and he was writing better than ever.
In 2003, Danny was approached by Frontiers Records with the idea of releasing a project-record more in the classic Melodic Rock vein, using songs from other writers as well as some of his own. Produced by Fabrizio Grossi, the album From the Inside was heralded as a major triumph and a return to the style for which Danny is best known.
So, with all of that, and more to his credit, how could he be so confident in the new album, "Traveller"? Best to hear it from the man himself: “After several meetings with Frontiers, we all agreed that my next album had to be not only a classic melodic sound, but also a step forward, and it had to be very special. By this time, I had done a couple of years of touring with an all English band, which featured a twin guitar attack, and much heavier sound than I had been known for before. This was well received by audiences all over the UK and Europe, so I had the task of working on songs that reflected that new, live attitude. The band, Tony Marshall (Contagious) and Pat Heath (Brave New World) on guitars, Steve McKenna (Ten) on bass and Lee Morris (Paradise Lost) on drums, took up the challenge of not only recreating our on stage fire, but recording an album with a very layered and full production. So many of these songs allowed me, as singer, writer and producer to try a lot of ideas that I always had in mind and the result is a monster! While all the elements of my usual song writing style are there, there is much less of a reliance on acoustic instruments than on previous albums. Yes, there are still a couple of acoustic songs (it wouldn't be me without them) but, the number of fast paced rockers is much higher than I have done before. I can’t wait to play these songs live as they are born to be performed on stage! Clocking in at an hour long, it has a little bit of everything that has come before, and some brand new ideas all in one package. It takes you from place to place, from mood to mood, seamlessly, and we are all extremely excited to have our fans hear it".
"Traveller" is set for release on February 16th 2007 on Frontiers Records with a Japanese release to happen on King Records. Final tracklisting of the album will include the following songs:

Miracle Days; Badlands Rain; Traveller; Restless Blood; That’s What She Says; The Touch of Your Hand; Lifted; The Warrior’s Way; The Measure of a Man; Think of Me In The Fall; Death of The Tiger; Better By Far.
Under the new name, “Danny Vaughn”, the new line-up recently played a storming performance at the United Forces Of Rock Festival in Ludwigsburg, Germany in October 2006 and introduced 3 of the new songs to a wildly receptive audience. Judging by the crowd’s reaction, and the reaction of the 30 or so journalists that got a 5 song sneak preview before the show, this album is going to be on a lot of people’s "Best of" list for 2007. Watch out for Danny Vaughn live, to come crashing into a town near you!

MAD MAX:
Here are the tour dates for the upcoming tour:
Mad Max as special guest of Axel Rudi Pell:
30.01.2007 (D) FULDA / Kreuz
31.01.2007 (D) AUGSBURG / Spectrum
02.02.2007 (E) MADRID / Heineken
03.02.2007 (E) BERGARA / Jam
04.02.2007 (E) BARCELONA / Razzmatazz 2
06.02.2007 (CH) ZURICH / Rohstofflager
07.02.2007 (D) HEIDELBERG / Halle 02
08.02.2007 (GB) LONDON / Mean Fiddler
09.02.2007 (NL) HELMOND / Plato

TRAIL OF TEARS:
Official Statement from Ronny Thorsen:
The following lines are written in the attempt to clarify the news that have been circulating over the past few days. On 26 Nov., Trail of Tears completed a 10-day tour of Mexico, a tour which was in large parts ridden with logistical problems and resulted in a severe financial loss for everyone involved. As a result, I was called to the band hotel in the morning of November 28 for a meeting by the other members. Upon my arrival, I was told that because of the situation the other members had decided to end the band effective immediately. This decision was made without my consultation or approval, and thus it is left for me to clarify that Trail of Tears has not disbanded. The band will continue in a new shape and formation.
Though I am very disappointed by the decision of the other band members, the decision to leave a band is an individual choice that I completely respect. However, due to the short notice of these departures, I am forced to cancel the upcoming X-Mas Tour in support of Trail of Tears' forthcoming release "Existentia". My sincerest apologies are extended to the fans and those behind the scenes.
Despite the current situation, I want to thank the leaving members for the amazing times we shared in the past. I will always consider you my brothers, friends, and family. Great chapters have been written and more are in the making. This is not the end...

SINNER:
30.12.2006 Metal Forever Festival / B?blingen, Germany
14.07.2007 Head bangers Open Air / Hamburg, Germany 
01.09.2007 BloodStock Festival / UK
A European tour is scheduled for March / April 2006.
Press comments about the forthcoming album "Mask Of Sanity":
"The best Sinner album since the royal 80?s!" (Metal Hammer)
"No matter if you are a Saint or a Sinner: put on this "Mask Of Sanity" and prepare to get completely addicted and blown away by a full force metal sound!!!!! And you'll certainly beg for more...." (Rock Hard Italy)
"Sinner back to the roots! The first hardrock-highlight in 2007!" (Rock It!)
"With this album Sinner rediscover their roots and strengths. 'Mask Of Sanity' is purest Sinner.? (Heavy)

HAMMERS OF MISFORTUNE:
Hammers Of Misfortune has a new line up! First of all, original drummer Chewy has returned to the fold. This is great news and we are thrilled to have him back!
As for vocals, we have two new members, Patrick Goodwin (Dirty Power) is playing guitar and assuming duties as our male lead vocalist. Jesse Quattro (Secret Chiefs 3, Carniceria) is our new Female vocalist. We're very excited to have Chewy back, and some excellent new voices in the band. We expect this line-up to be our best yet. This line-up is confirmed to debut at the South By South West showcase in Austin TX, in March of '07. There will undoubtedly be shows prior to this, but they are a secret at the moment...
Hammers Of Misfortune official line-up:
Chewy - drums, Ron Nichols - bass, John Cobbett - guitar, etc., Sigrid Sheie - piano, organ, Patrick Goodwin - voice, guitar, Jesse Quattro - voice, etc.

EXCALION:
As some of you can to know, we were working on their 2nd album to release during this year but the material on this album showed a potential very higher than we had in mind because we got various licensing proposals for it so, our plans needed to be changed on this point After 3 months in negotiations with two major European labels, we would like to announce that Sound Riot Records have inked a worldwide licensing deal with Limb Music for the release of the new Excalion album, "Waterlines". Limb Music has scheduled the release to February 2007. In the Japan, we have licensed the album to Stay Gold/Art Union Records again. It shall to out in March 2007 there. If you want to check a new song of this album, see the video of "Losing Time" at: www.excalion.com or www.youtube.com.

AJNA:
In a dark corner on Oregon lies one of the most cult black metal outlets in the world. The Ajna Offensive has polluted the planet in recent years with some of the most influential modern black metal extremities via its elite mailorder catalog, and also by releasing some of the most blasphemous releases in our time, including the US release of releases from Deathspell Omega, Watain, Atomizer and more.
Most recently, the label has taken on several more Norma Evangelium Diaboli titles for North American release, including the latest blistering opuses from Katharsis, Antaeus, Funeral Mist and more. The label also released the amazing Negative Plane album with is an intense ride through all eras of black/thrash metal past with an intense, modern darkness.
Extremely limited copies of some of the latest Ajna catalog is available for definite, immediate coverage. Most of these acts do not partake in any sort of interviews, national tours or anything else, so these are mainly on a review basis.

MELODIC ROCK FANZINE:
Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 17th release of our successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mailorders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases.
This new issue includes reviews and interviews of: Pretty Maids, Thunder, Richie Kotzen, Styx, Royal Hunt, Final Frontier, Biss, Zion, Cosmo, Wetton / Downes... and more!!! Downloadable version of the magazine can be found here MRF 17.

26 NOVEMBER

SHAW / BLADES:
What happens with two of today’s most successful classic rockers join forces to create an album of songs that have been a source of inspiration for their respective multi-Platinum careers? The result is “Influence”, the sophomore album by Shaw / Blades - led by Styx/Damn Yankees guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw and Night Ranger / Damn Yankees bassist/vocalist Jack Blades - which is set for release February 16, 2007 in Europe on Frontiers Records. The self-produced album was mixed by Noel Golden (Matchbox Twenty, Willie Nelson) and Great White keyboardist/guitarist Michael Lardie. “Influence” is the duo’s first album since their recently re-released 1995 debut, “Hallucination”. Like the debut - and unlike their history-carving decades as icons in the more hard-rock minded Styx, Night Ranger and Damn Yankees--the latest release is rooted in acoustic guitar and organic production, harvesting a decade of musical influences into 11 tracks (on which Blades and Shaw played all the music except for drums and the occasional keyboards). With classics from the ‘60s and ‘70s including the Mamas and the Papas’ “California Dreamin’,” Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth” and Steely Dan’s “Dirty Work,” “Influence” offers a track-by-track chronology of the musical era that helped define nowadays rock music. Whether the songs are delivered in faithful tribute, as is the case with Simon & Garfunkel’s epic masterpiece “Sounds Of Silence,” or given a modern rock transfusion, as in the duo’s 1966 folk anthem “I Am A Rock,” the results are the same, sparkling like a beacon illuminating the mainstream roots of rock and roll’s formative years.
“I cringe at the thought of Paul Simon hearing our stuff,” laughs Blades, only half-jokingly. “I honor his spirit so much, and I’m such a huge fan. As far as I’m concerned, they invented the word genius to go along with him, and we just wanted to make sure that we did their songs justice. Tommy and I have that special symbiotic relationship that doesn’t come along a lot. Simon & Garfunkel also had it, we have a reverence to it, and it was something that we just wanted to dig into”. “As writers, we’re like two old friends who finish each other’s sentences,” adds Shaw. “We became best friends as a result of the music and the experiences we’ve had because of it”. But “Influence” isn’t about the experiences of Shaw / Blades, it’s about the inspiration that helped create the experiences. “This album has been years in the making,” continues the Styx/Damn Yankees guitarist. “The recording process didn’t take years, but the concept had been looming in our conversations for a long time. We’d always sit around with a couple of guitars and play songs we both knew from or younger days, spontaneous harmonizing and all that, and we slowly eased into the idea of making this record”.
One of the most prolific duos in the history of hard rock, Shaw and Blades have sold more than 50 million albums amongst their three bands, scored 12 Top 10 singles on the Billboard “Hot 100” chart, debuted 16 albums in the Billboard “Top 200” albums chart, and share joint songwriting credits for the likes of Ozzy Osbourne, Aerosmith, Cher and Alice Cooper.
Even so, “Influence” offered the pair an invigorating musical freedom. “With Shaw / Blades,” offers Blades, “we’re able to take liberties that our respective bands couldn’t do. We need to be Styx-sounding, we need to fit in that Night Ranger world, and we even need to think about Damn Yankees, so that’s what’s fun about Shaw / Blades-we get to be our alter-egos when we want to be, yet we can truly be ourselves. We grew up singing harmonies and songs with massive vocals, so it’s a wonderful thing to have that freedom here. This was a complete labor of love”.
“You can always tell a brilliant song, whether it was written 30 years ago or yesterday,” says Blades. “Every song we picked is identifiable in its own right, and they’re all immediately recognizable. What does that tell you? That the songs are the stars. That’s what we wanted to do on this record, we wanted the songs to be the stars. I think that’s what we accomplished”.
The complete track listing is as follows:
1. Summer Breeze 2. Time Of The Season 3. Your Move 4. I Am A Rock 5. Lucky Man 6. Sound Of Silence 7. California Dreamin’ 8. On A Carousel 9. Dirty Work 10. For What It’s Worth 11. Dance With Me.
Shaw / Blades “Influence” will be released in Europe on February 16th 2007.

SINNER:
We can reveal the cover artwork for the forthcoming Sinner album "Mask Of Sanity". Since the mid-80s, the band Sinner belongs to the big names of hard & heavy scene. Sinner went back to their roots and will satisfy fans of all their creative periods. Compared to the “Execution“ album, “Mask Of Sanity“ is more melodic and features dozens of guitar harmonies in the tradition of handmade and honest rock!
In the glory 80s and with classics such as “Touch Of Sin”, “Comin’ Out Fighting”, “Bottom Line” and “Judgement Day“, Sinner became one German’s leading rock bands alongside Accept and Helloween and toured with MR. BIG, Savatage, DIO and Deep Purple. The albums “The Nature Of Evil” and “The End of Sanctuary” even hit the German charts!
On the new album “Mask of Sanity”, produced by Mat Sinner himself and engineered by Achim Kohler, the band presents itself with guitarist Tom Naumann and keyboard player Frank Rossler. Former Primal Fear drummer Klaus Sperling, who has already joined Sinner on tours and festivals, is now a fixed member of the line up – accompanied by Traceelords guitarist Christof Leim. In addition, the album features guest appearances by Andy B. Franck (Brainstorm), Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear) and Martin Grimm (Mystic Prophecy).
The new album impresses by Tom Naumann’s fantastic guitar work and Mat Sinner’s pounding bass and his  expressive voice. Fresh sound, full force – “Mask Of Sanity” – the new album by Sinner. Out on January 19th, 2007!
The first pressing will appear in a ltd.ed. with two bonus tracks: a videoclip was shot for the song “Diary Of Evil” written by Mat Sinner together with Roy Z and the Thin Lizzy cover version “Baby Please Don’t Go”.
Final tracklist:
01. The Other Side (4:00) 02. Diary Of Evil (4:33) 03. Badlands (3:50) 04. Black (3:58) 05. Thunder Roar (5:14) 06. The Sign (4:25) 07. Revenge (3:33) 08. Under The Gun (3:41) 09. Cant Stand The Heat (3:40) 10. No Return (4:38) 11. Last Man Standing (3:28) 12. Baby Please Don’t Go (4:29) (Bonustrack) 13. Diary Of Evil (Bonus Video Track).

KINGDOM OF GLORY COMPILATION:
Hello,
Here is Luiz of Enclave Records on the behalf KINGDOM OF GLORY Compilation. We are looking for unsigned  bands to feature on our volume 3 that will be released in January 2007. This compilation support: Power, Progressive, Epic, Heavy, Neo-classical, Symphonic, True, Speed, and Melodic Metal. We also accept Hard Rock, Glam, Progressive Rock and, AOR.
KINGDOM OF GLORY is a good way to your band get a great exposure. This is because it will be distributed in many places as well as it will be promoted and reviewed in magazines. Besides that, all other bands included on the compilation will also be selling or doing promotion of their copies on various places. And the best of everything, YOU WILL GET ALL YOUR MONEY BACK Yes, this is true. You get copies of the CD which are equivalent to your payment, and you can sell the CDs. Of course, it is a professional and sale-able product!!! 
Our compilation isn't like a free sampler-CD of magazine that you get promotion only. With KINGDOM OF GLORY you will get promotion plus all your money back. The feedback that your band obtain through a compilation will influence in persuading the listeners to buy your material as well as catch the interest of some some distributor or mailorder for the distribution of your material or better, get the offer for a record-deal with some label or the possibility to play in some festival. This is an opportunity which will be very effective in increasing the popularity of your band. Be a participator in the KINGDOM OF GLORY to guarantee this big promotion to your band.
At the moment, we have already 16 bands confirmed for this volume and there are still place/room for more 1 band only. If you are interested to enter on our compilation so, get in touch with me right now!!!
I look forward for your answer,
Luiz de Arruda.
RELEASE DATE:
• It will be released in January 2007.
CD PACKAGING:
• This compilation is an official release (professional CD), it is manufactured at a pressing-factory.
• Printed in 2000 limited copies.
• Compiled and mastered at a professional mastering studio.
• Full-colour cover artwork done by a professional artist.
• 12 pages booklet including photo, logo, brief bio, and full address of every bands. There are 2 bands per 
page.
REFUND:
• All the bands will get bonus copies when the CD get finished at CD-factory, no additional cost. 
• This compilation is a sale-able product (official CD with cover and booklet), it isn/t a free cardboard sleeve 
sampler-CD.
• Per example, if you sell your copies for a cheap price (around 5 EUR / $6 USD) you will get ALL your money 
back for sure.
• Every bands will be authorized to sell, trade or promote their copies in any situation, time and territory. 
BONUS COPIES:
(The bonus copies will be supplied in the following rates)
1:30 min = 15 bonus copies
from 1:31 to 2:00 min = 20 bonus copies
from 2:01 to 2:30 min = 25 bonus copies
from 2:31 to 3:00 min = 30 bonus copies
from 3:01 to 3:30 min = 35 bonus copies
from 3:31 to 4:00 min = 40 bonus copies
from 4:01 to 4:30 min = 45 bonus copies
from 4:31 to 5:00 min = 50 bonus copies
from 5:01 to 5:30 min = 55 bonus copies
from 5:31 to 6:00 min = 60 bonus copies
from 6:01 to 6:30 min = 62 bonus copies
from 6:31 to 7:00 min = 65 bonus copies
DISTRIBUTION:
Austria: CCP, Belgium: Rock Inc, 

Finland: Firebox, Lion, 

France: Holy, Adipocere, 

Germany: Cudgel, Merciless,  G.U.C., Grau, Conquer, Perverted Taste, 

Greece: Sleazy Rider, Steel Gallery, 

Holland: Displeased, 

Italy:  Avantgarde, Nocturnal, Beyond, 

Ireland: Sentinel, 

Japan: Soundholic, Worldchaos, 

Norway: Aftermath, 
Portugal: Recital, 

Russia: More Hate, Metalism, Valiant, 

Spain: Goimusic, 

Sweden: Sound Pollution, 
Switzerland: Non Stop Music, 

UK: Supernal, Aesthetic Death, 

USA: Red Stream, Khaosmaster, CDN, Nightmare, Mercenary, The Root All Evil, 

Yugoslavia: Rock Express.
CONDICTIONS, LEGALITY & COPYRIGHT:
• Every participator will get a contract made out for this participation fee on Compilation-CD.
• All rights will be kept and belong to their owner.
• METAL OSTENTATION COMPILATION is officially edited by SOUND RIOT RECORDS LDA (V.A.T. Nr.: 
PT504484591) on their sub-label named ENCLAVE RECORDS.
GUARANTEES:
• This is our volume 3.
• We have already supported and promoted more than 200 bands on the Enclave Records/ compilations!!!
• This compilation is issued by Enclave Records, a sub-label of Sound Riot Records (www.soundriotrecords.com).

PINK CREAM 69:
Frontiers Records is proud to announce the signing Pink Cream 69 to its roster of artists! Pink Cream 69 are a legendary German Melodic Hard Rock outfit who released nine studio albums from 1989. Consisting of David Readman (vocals), Alfred Koffler (guitar), Dennis Ward (bass), Kosta Zafiriou (drums), the band recently added to the line-up a new guitarist, Uwe Reitenauer, who was already part of the band’s live shows since 2003. His unique style and the possibilities of dual lead and rhythm guitars will enrich the songwriting and recordings as much as they did the live shows in the last 3 years.
The band is currently working on the follow up of the successful 2004 release “Thunderdome”. The record has the working title of “In10sity” with reference to the fact that this is PC 69’s tenth regular studio album.“The new song material is definitely more powerful with the two guitars attack, but still keeping the trademark of catchy melodies and strong choruses”, says drummer Kosta Zafiriou. Fans of melodic Hard Rock can expect a mixture of the strongest elements in the PC69 style, combined with a state-of-the-art production by Dennis Ward. The new album is scheduled to be released in march 2007. Stay tuned for more details!

RHINO BUCKET:
November 27th, 2006, you will be able to pre-order the re-release of the classic 1994 "Pain" CD as well as the never-released demos and tracks titled "No Song Left Behind". The "Pain" CD is re-mastered and also contains 5 previously unreleased tracks from Rhino Bucket. The 5 previously unreleased tracks are from the original line-up of Georg Dolivo, Greg Fields, Reeve Downes, and Liam Jason. "No Song Left Behind" contains 16 tracks with the original line-up. It will contain different versions of classic Rhino Bucket songs as well as songs never heard before.
Pre-order shipping date will be December 15th, just in time for a great Christmas or holiday gift. Both CD's will be available in stores February 6th, 2007. That means if you pre-order, you will get it 6 weeks before it hits the streets! There will be a special price when both CD's are ordered at the same time. Worldwide shipping will be available.
You will be able to go to these websites to pre-order the new CD's as of November 27 2006: www.acetate.com & www.rhinobucket.com.

ROTTING CHRIST:
Due to bureaucratic problems with obtaining visas, the band's announced tour in the USA during November 2006 was postponed to May 2007. As soon as the first dates are confirmed for this tour, they will be posted on the Rotting Christ website & www.myspace.com/rottingchristabyss and Season of Mist websites.
As a teaser for Rotting Christ's upcoming opus "Theogonia", out next January 22nd on Season of Mist, you can download one song from the upcoming album on this website. Check out "Enuma Elish"!
Here's the complete tracklisting :
1. The Sign of prime Creation 2. Keravnos Kivernitos 3. Enuma Elish 4. Gaia Tellus 5. Helios Hyperion 6. Nemecic 7. He, the Aethyr 8. Phobos' Synagogue 9. Rege Diabolicus 10. Threnody.

ROBIN BECK:
The amazing AOR singer Robin Beck has recently revealed her plans for the upcoming start of the work for her new solo album. Here’s her message for the fans.
"For the last few months I've been flying around Europe enjoying my renewed success. My lucky stars that so many loyal fans of Melodic Rock have stood by me through the years! I am totally committed to giving them the strongest and most passionate album of my life. I have received so many requests over the years for me to do more of my own songwriting and that is exactly what I'm doing. Now, I am back home and putting together my next CD. It will be produced by James Christian and myself. All you House of Lords fans will be happy to learn that I will be benefiting from the great musicians from the House Of Lords for this CD. I am a Lucky Girl. What luck to be married to lead singer of the greatest band on earth! James, Jimi Bell, Chris Pelcer and I have been busy busy writing and I must say we are coming up with what will amount to be a great record. Get ready to Rock… Get ready to shiver through my eyes and through my heart”!

NORWAY:
We are happy to announce the signing of US AOR band Norway! Norway, a rock band from New Jersey, was formed in 1986 by four local club musicians. “Night Dreams”, the band’s first output, became a surprise smash hit in Europe’s and Japan’s AOR and Melodic Hard Rock scene. It was a top "CD of the Year" by rock magazines worldwide. Because of the variety of musical influences and the band members’ experience in cover bands, "Night Dreams" show-cased a diverse style that drew comparisons to bands such as Bon Jovi, Foreigner, Journey, Bonfire, 
Scorpions, Night Ranger and many more, while instilling an own signature songwriting style and sound on each song. Due to the success of "Night Dreams" the band recorded their label debut "Arrival", which was released in March 2000.
On the new album "Rising Up From The Ashes", classic rock songs like "American Girl", the amazing ballad "Only One I Need" and stunning new stuff such as "Anything At All" and "Save Me" portend great things to come for the band. The record never lets up and features songs in the vein of Rainbow, Journey and Firehouse plus a 7 ½ minute Def Leppard / Led Zeppelin’esque rock epic called “Haunted”. Appropriately titled “Rising Up From The Ashes” - Norway has finally risen again.
Final tracklist:
01. Save Me 02. Anything At All 03. Only One I Need 04. American Girl 05. The Power of Gold 06. Since You’ve Been Gone 07. Tell Me (is that the way that it is) 08. Won’t Let You Down 09. Haunted.
The release date is scheduled for January 19th, 2007.

JOE LYNN TURNER:
Former Deep Purple and Rainbow singer Joe Lynn Turner is busy writing and recording the up and coming studio album. The direction will be again in the Melodic Hard Rock vein that characterized the latest studio effort “The Usual Suspects”. Release date is not yet scheduled but Frontiers Records hopes to release it before the summer 2007.

DOMAIN:
New line-up and new drive at the Domain base. The band around guitarist and producer Axel Ritt announces the exit of bass player Jochen Mayer and singerCarsten Schulz by their own request, shortly after the release of the new album "Stardawn" (LMP / SPV). Domain wish Jochen and Carsten all the best for their future projects.
Without hesitation, the band is raring to go for the next round. Domain proudly presents Chity Somapala (Ex-Firewind, Avalon, Faro) on vocals and Steven Wussow (SHhylock) on bass-guitar as the new line-up. For the first time, the new band will perform Dec. 30th at the End Of Dayz - Festival in Pratteln / Switzerland. Some of the new songs of the "Stardawn" album will be played as well.
Additionally, the tour plannings for spring 2007 commenced to advance the well started sales of the new album. In the run-up, an extraordinary meeting has been arranged. Original composer Chris de Burgh and his management were that enthused about the cover version of "Don't Pay The Ferryman" (contained at the album "Stardawn") that they invited the band for a personal meeting / foto shooting at the Festhalle Frankfurt show Nov. 24th. The Domain - cover version of the hit in 1982, which has been commended by fans and critics, turned the pop title into a hard driving rock hymn and has been placed on many turntables at miscellaneous rock clubs and radio stations.
For more information about Domain's current activities check www.domainband.net.

FAIR WARNING:
Fair Warning have recently completed their first Japanese tour in 6 years with successful concerts in Hiroshima, Nagoya, Osaka and Tokyo. The band was overwhelmed with the warm acceptance from the cheerful fans. Fair Warning also performed on their return to Europe a cool show at the Firefest in Notthingham on October 28th. This was the band’s first ever performance in the UK and was greeted with a great success. The band is also currently planning more shows for early 2007 and is looking for promoters in European countries. Anyone interested can email info@show-tops.de or info@frontiers.it.
Fair Warning’s successful come-back album “Brother’s Keeper”, released on August 25th is gathering excellent responses from critics and fans and is now also downloadable via I-tunes and Napster European shops, E-music UK, Musicload and Virgin France.

KNIGHT AREA:
The band's new album has been recorded and mixed. The tapes are now in the USA, where the renown Bob Katz will master the album. "Under A New Sign" (album title) will be somewhat heavier than our first album - "The Sun Also Rises" 2004 - but still very melodic and emotional. There's even a true balled on the CD.
Tracking list:
1. A Different Man (07.50) 2. Exit L.U.M.C. (07.41) 3. Mastermind (06.17) 4. Under A New Sign (05.44) 5. Courteous Love (07.08) 6. Dreamweaver (07.38) 7. A Different Man, part 2 (13.07).
The album will be released (again) by The Laser's Edge US on March 7th 2007. The artwork is created bij Mattias Noren.
Knight Area will do an European Tour in 2007 to promote the album.
Upcoming Concerts:
09-12-2006 De Rozenburcht, Boskoop, NL (tickets: www.knightarea.com)
06-01-2007 Loose End, Reeuwijk, NL
28-04-2007 Hoekpop, Boskoop, NL (try-out European Tour)
09-06-2007 Sponsor Festival, Hazerswoude, NL.

RAMOS:
Josh Ramos (Hardline, The Storm) is busy writing and recording his forthcoming album, following the successful release of his debut “Living In The Light”. Here are a few pictures that shows him together with drummer-maestro John Macaluso (TNT, Riot, Starbreaker etc), who, together with Don Chaffin on vocals and Eric Ragno on keyboards completes the recording lineup. Release date is foreseen for Spring 07.

17 NOVEMBER

GRANDE UPDATE:
Back on action again... We are working very hard to cover some releases of 2006 before the New Year... More reviews and interviews are on the way and we’re dealing with it every single day... So, check out three interviews... one with Mercenary, another with Fraze Gang and another with Stairway... before you take a look at the Best albums and the Surprises of this year (2006 - scroll down and check the bar on your left)... Lots of reviews at the CD reviews section as well. The next update is almost ready with some very interesting interviews and many CD-DVD reviews... stay tuned!

ROAD TO RUIN:
Metal Heaven Records has inked a deal with ROAD TO RUIN, the Swedish band consisting of Matti Alfonzetti (vocals; JAGGED EDGE, THE POODLES, SKINTRADE), Lars Chriss (guitar; LION'S SHARE); Sampo Axelsson (bass and keyboards; GLENN HUGHES, LION'S SHARE), and Thomas Broman (drums; GREAT KING RAT, JOHN NORUM, GLENN HUGHES). ROAD TO RUIN was founded in the year 2005 when guitarist Chriss and Axelsson started to write some material which didn't fit their melodic metal band LION'S SHARE. The group is currently putting the finishing touches on its self-titled debut album, which will follow a classic '70s and '80s hard rock vein (ala WHITESNAKE, RAINBOW, THIN LIZZY). The recordings were produced by Chriss, Axelsson and Alfonzetti and will be released in the spring.

ION:
Named after the Gaelic word for 'pure', Ion seems to illude strict categorization, and even the apparently all-encompassing definition of World Music falls short in defining the ethereal moods that "Madre, Protegenos" comes to reveal.
Duncan Patterson's career traces back to the early 90's, when he began his musical incursions as a member of Anathema, a group that would pioneer and remain as forerunners of the unique Doom Metal genre throughout that decade.
Patterson would later also become involved with Antimatter, a project which would find him developing his long-standing talent for emotional and atmospheric song-writing into new formats, and which he quit in late 2004 as the early sketches of what would later grow into Ion were drafted.
One can arguably class Ion as Patterson's most personal creation to date - a creation which he has fathered on his own, and one through which he taps deeper into his spiritual identity and heritage. This musical entity which Patterson has named after the Gaelic word for 'pure' - a word which accurately pins down the project's mindset - seems to elude strict categorization, and even the apparently all-encompassing definition of World Music falls short in defining the ethereal moods that "Madre, Protegenos", Ion's debut album, comes to reveal.
Though fairly minimalist in its overall approach, the album's true wealth stems from its various layered soundscapes and the introspective ambiance that they recreate. These provide the lighter toned and dreamier elements of the album with an ominous and melancholic shade - much like a sense of hopeful longing for piece of mind haunted by memories and nostalgia. Having Irish mysticism and an exotic Mediterranean backdrop as its essential cornerstones, the project has slowly evolved into an international venture, stretching over continents and oceans. "Madre, Protegenos" collects a rich array of influences that come to shape into a unique multi-textured body of work, based around smooth acoustic instrumentation (where acoustic guitar and various percussions take a leading role, alongside occasional harp, flute or viola arrangements), discreet keyboard elements, and remarkable voices.
The patterns that fuse into "Madre, Protegenos" come not only from the varied instrumentation that musicians from Greece, Ireland, Mexico or Australia have added to the recordings. The album's unique diversity is equally produced by several female singers from Italy, Greece and Mexico who contributed to the album. Their appearances come to add pieces of each of their country's colours and dialects to the blissful lead interpretation of Russian muse Emily Saaen, in an eclectic musical quest which feeds not only on each of its characters ethnic heritage, but especially on their own spiritual recollections and experiences.

SOUL DOCTOR:
Soul Doctor sign multi-album deal with Metal Heaven! Berlin based Hard Rock band Soul Doctor has inked a long-term record deal with Munich based label Metal Heaven! The band is currently in the studio working on their yet untitled upcoming album which will see the light of day around Summer next year. Until then, don't miss them live at the following dates:
09.12.2006 (I) Bologna, Der Kindergarten
10.12.2006 (I) Rome, Stazione della Birra
25.12.2006 (D) Berlin, JWD
01.02.2007 (D) Aschaffenburg, Colossaal (with Oliver Hartmann)
Soul Doctor have released three successful studio albums since 2001 and gained themselves a massive fan base both in Europe & Japan due to their astonishing live performances with Dio, Kingdom Come, Axel Rudi Pell, Alice Cooper & Bob Catley and at various festivals such as Wacken Open Air and own headlining shows.
The band is:
Tommy Heart (vocals)
Chris Lyne (guitars)
Jogy Rautenberg (bass)
Michael Wolpers (drums)
For more info, please check out www.souldoctorrocks.com.

HOUSE OF LORDS:
The fans asked for it and they are getting it! House Of Lords last ever live recording with the original line-up, mirroring the show held at Firefest in Nottingham, England on November 26th 2005 will be released worldwide on Frontiers Records on January 26th 2006. House Of Lords is a legendary arena-rock band born on the ashes of Giuffria. With three studio albums recorded between 1989 and 1992, this group became a milestone in Melodic Hard Rock music. Mixing influences from Journey, Whitesnake and Van halen, House Of Lords music has become a staple in Rock fans’ collections and playlists.
House Of Lords reunited in the year 2000, after a seven years hiatus, with the classic line-up featuring James Christian, Gregg Giuffria, Chuck Wright, Lanny Cordola and Ken Mary with Giuffria who opted out of the recording at the last minute. Following the release of the come back album "The Power & The Myth”, House Of Lords decided on a reunion tour that took the band to England & Greece for two outstanding shows in the fall of 2005.
The release of “Live in the UK” reflects the entire show held at Firefest in Nottingham, by the line-up featuring Christian, Wright, Cordola and Mary. A testament to a glorious line-up before House Of Lords decided to move forward with new members with their successful new record “World Upside Down”.
A special studio track, “Havana” (written by Christian and Giuffria together with Tim Pierce and Mark Spiro – originally the Japan-only bonus track of “The Power & The Myth” album) has been added as a special gift to the fans. Enjoy!
“Live In The UK” includes the following tracks:
Sahara; Chains Of Love; Love Don’t Lie; Pleasure Palace; Talkin’ Bout Love; The Edge Of Your Life; Mind Trip; All Is Gone; The Rapture; I Wanna Be Loved; Can’t Find My Way Home; Slip Of The Tongue; Havana (studio bonus track).

LEATHERWOLF:
Orange County metal stalwarts Leatherwolf are currently looking for a new vocalist following the departure Wade Black who fronted the band on their critically acclaimed comeback album, "World Asylum", released last June on N.I.L.8 Records. "We would like to thank Wade for his contributions to Leatherwolf and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors", commented the group on the split. "There are no hard feelings between both parties. Unfortunately, certain economic realities and the geographical distance between Wade and the rest of the band turned out to be an obstacle too hard to overcome and made working as a unit that much more difficult".
"We are now looking for someone closer to home, preferably based right here in Southern California. Potential candidates must be able to sing both the Michael Olivieri and Wade Black era songs (guitar abilities a huge plus!), have a valid passport, and be able to go on the road as we have a European tour in the works for spring 2007."
Interested parties get in touch with the band via dean.rob_at_cox.net. Leatherwolf online: www.leatherwolfmusic.com. 

HELL WITHIN:
As previously reported Hell Within just recently lost their long year drummer Brian "Bubba" Joyce and filled his position with former Trauma Concept drummer Derek Jay. Now the band is back again to reveal some details about the follow up to the band's 2004 Lifeforce Records debut "Asylum Of The Human Predator". The title of Hell Within's second, scheduled for an early 2007 album will be "Shadows Of Vanity".
Hell Within guitarist Tony Zimmermann checks in:
"For the past 7 months we’ve been busy writing and getting the new Hell Within album ready to record. Finally at the end of this month we will enter Prism Sound Studios in Acton, Ma to start tracking the album under the direction of John Ellis. This will take us about 3 weeks and then the masters are off to Audio Hammer Studios in Orlando FL for Jason Suecoff to mix the album. We’re very excited about working with these engineers and can't wait to get started.
I will tell you the material is sick. In most areas the riffs are so bone crushing that they will send you into a frenzy, but then the songs have their tasteful melodic elements that will bring you back to earth and leave you begging for more. The songs are rock’n in some areas and then face shredding in others. More or less it has the signature Hell Within sound but put 2 years of touring and 2 more years of experience under our belts and you will have the new Hell Within album entitled “Shadows Of Vanity”.

VIOLENT STORM:
Violent Storm, whose new album “Storm Warning” was released on October 23rd, have announced that Martin Mickels will be joining the band when they tour in 2007. Martin, currently the lead guitarist with Gary Barden’s band, Statetrooper, will be playing the parts performed on the album by rock luminaries Yngwie Malmsteen and KK Downing. Of course he is no stranger to stepping into the shoes of guitar gods... in Statetrooper he replaced Brian Robertson, and regularly plays the guitar parts co-written and performed by Michael Schenker, for the MSG tracks performed by Statetrooper. Violent Storm will announce the details of their new tour on their website www.violentstorm.net.