Archive for January 11th, 2013

Daily Reload: Anthrax, David Draiman + More

Photo by Matthew Rodgers – Anthrax have secured Shadows Fall ‘s Jon Donais to fill-in on guitar for departing member Rob Caggiano on their upcoming tours. [ Loudwire ] – Disturbed ‘s David Draiman unveiled an all-star guest list, the title of the lead single and a tentative release date for his band  Device ‘s debut album. [ Loudwire ] – Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins was denied bail in his child sex offense case. [ Loudwire ] – Bullet for My Valentine have unveiled their new video for ‘Riot.’ [ Loudwire ] – Jane’s Addiction  and Camp Freddy guitarist  Dave Navarro has shed his clothes for a new PETA ad campaign. [ Loudwire ] – Ted Nugent is the latest rocker to fall victim to a Twitter death hoax. [ Ultimate Classic Rock ] – Bob Seger has revealed the dates for his 2013 North American tour. [ Ultimate Classic Rock ] – Vampire Weekend and Tegan and Sara lead the latest additions to South by Southwest’s lineup. [ Diffuser.fm ] – Ben Gibbard was joined by Aimee Mann and Ted Leo during a performance on ‘The Colbert Report.’ [ Diffuser.fm ]

Eddie Vedder Shares Story of ‘West of Memphis’ Soundtrack Contribution ‘Satellite’

Samir Hussein, Getty Images Eddie Vedder , perhaps as much as any musician, used his celebrity to rally the efforts to get the West Memphis Three a new trial. So it should come as no surprise that he’s contributing music to the ‘West of Memphis’ documentary about the now free former death row inmates Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley Jr. and Jason Baldwin. Vedder, who lent his song ‘Satellite’ for the soundtrack, spoke about the track in an exclusive video at Diffuser.fm . The singer wrote the song for Lorri Davis, a woman who first began corresponding with Echols after witnessing his plight in the 1996 documentary, ‘Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills.’ Davis, believing the Echols and his friends were wrongly convicted of killing three youths, would later marry the inmate while he was still in prison and she tirelessly worked to clear her husband’s name. Vedder reveals in his video commentary that Davis makes an unknowing guest appearance in ‘Satellite’ that is sort of a happy accident. ‘Satellite’ first appeared on Vedder’s ‘Ukulele Songs’ album, but felt like a perfect fit for the ‘West of Memphis’ soundtrack. In addition to the Pearl Jam frontman, the disc includes contributions from Camp Freddy , Marilyn Manson , Henry Rollins , Band of Horses , Bob Dylan and more. It arrives in stores Jan. 15. You can check out Loudwire’s exclusive premiere of Camp Freddy’s ‘West of Memphis’ soundtrack contribution, ‘The Jean Genie,’ right here . To see Vedder’s video commentary, as well as the actual video for ‘Satellite,’ check out the exclusive preview at Diffuser.fm by clicking the button below. [button href=”http://diffuser.fm/eddie-vedder-west-memphis-three/” title=”Watch Eddie Vedder Discuss His ‘West of Memphis’ Contribution” align=”center”]

Lemmy Kilmister Brings Motorheadphones to U.S., Slams ‘Beats’ Headphones

Motorheadphones.com Now that the world’s loudest band has released their own signature brand of headphones, Motorhead are looking to take down rapper Dr. Dre and his ‘Beats’ empire. Frontman  Lemmy Kilmister himself presented the new headphones this week in Las Vegas at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Along with introducing the headphones, Lemmy offered some priceless quotes while answering questions at a Motorheadphones press conference. Motorheadphones brand manager Andres Nicklassen describes what make the new product different from the various headphones released by hip-hop musicians. The main difference is that Motorheadphones are engineered to focus on mid-range sounds, rather than Beats headphones and the like, which are more about the bass. Nicklassen went as far to say that Beats “takes the soul out of rock,” after which Lemmy compared the Beats experience to “listening through a towel.” Lemmy was full of dry British wit when interviewed by reporters: Reporter 1: “There’s a lot of lines of headphones; celebrity headphones…” Lemmy: “Oh, is there? I didn’t know.” Reporter 1: “So why are these different?” Lemmy: “Because they’re from Motorhead.” Reporter 1: “So is the sound quality different?” Lemmy: “These are for deaf people, you see. Our fans are deaf, remember?” Lemmy is exactly right when he says that Motorheadphones are for deaf people, as the speakers are 6-10 times more powerful than a standard set of headphones. “These new headphones are not like the weak-kneed, lily-livered, tin-pot, skinny sounding little pieces of garbage out on the market today,” says Lemmy. “We designed these headphones to deliver everything louder than anything else and with the sort of range, clarity and TRUE rock reproduction you’d expect from a band of warriors like us.” Meanwhile, Lemmy took some time to mess with some additional reporters: Reporter 2: “When you were developing this did you listen to a lot of your music when you were playing it back and make sure they sounded the way you wanted them to sound?” Lemmy: “I didn’t have a chance to do that, but we told them what to do with them … very specifically. And we threatened them with terrible violence if they didn’t get it right, so I’m sure they got it right.” Reporter 3: “Lemmy, do you like hip-hop?” Lemmy: “No.” Reporter 3: “Why are these headphones better than any headphones out there?” Lemmy: “Because we’ve said they are.” We’re sold! Motorheadphones come in various shapes and sizes and run anywhere from $49.99-$129.99. They are currently available in Europe, and will begin shipping in the United States in April. Check out Motorheadphones at its official website . Lemmy Kilmister Messes With Reporters at Motorheadphones Showcase ? [button href=”http://loudwire.com/robot-band-compressorhead-performance-motorhead-ace-of-spades/” title=”Motorhead’s ‘Ace of Spades’ Played By Evil Robots” align=”center”]

Anthrax Confirm Release Date + Partial Track List for ‘Anthems’ Covers EP

Megaforce Anthrax ‘s potential EP of cover songs has been discussed about for a while, but now there’s finally confirmation that the thrash legends will indeed release the effort, titled ‘Anthems,’ on March 19. It will include covers of songs by  AC/DC , Rush , Cheap Trick and more. During an interview we conducted with Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante in June 2012, we got the exclusive scoop of the EP, which Benante claimed would serve as a celebration for the one-year anniversary of ‘Worship Music,’ which came and went in September 2012. Shortly after Benante broke the news, guitarist Scott Ian  denied the drummer’s claims, while singer Joey Belladonna stated that it was “ a possibility ” and that he hoped the EP would come to fruition. Six months after Benante’s original statement, the covers EP will finally be getting a release date of March 19. The 2013 Grammy nominees have also released some of the EP’s track listing, which includes renditions of Rush’s ‘Anthem,’ Thin Lizzy’s ‘Jailbreak,’ AC/DC’s ‘TNT,’ Cheap Trick’s ‘Big Eyes,’ Boston’s ‘Smokin” and Journey’s ‘Keep on Runnin’,’ among others yet to be confirmed. According to our original interview with Benante, the drummer referred to the effort as a tribute to some of their favorite songs from some of their favorite bands. Anthrax, who just tapped Shadows Fall guitarist Jon Donais to replace outgoing axeman Rob Caggiano, are set to headline the 2013 New England Metal and Hardcore Festival , along with this year’s Metal Alliance tour, where they’ll share the stage with Exodus , High on Fire , Municipal Waste and Holy Grail. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/anthrax-tap-shadows-fall-guitarist-jon-donais-to-fill-vacant-band-slot-on-upcoming-tour/” title=”Next: Anthrax Name Fill-In Guitarist for 2013 Tour” align=”center”]

David Draiman’s Device Secure Geezer Butler, Serj Tankian, M. Shadows + More for Debut Album

Ethan Miller, Getty Images There’s been a lot of anticipation for Device , the new project from Disturbed ‘s David Draiman , over the past year. But now the biggest update yet comes with Draiman  confirming  an all-star lineup of guest musicians for the album, as well as details on the disc’s first single and a tentative release date. Draiman says, “Crazy! Finally able to talk more about this amazing band. The first single off our debut record debuts at radio on Feb. 19 and we have a tentative release date for the record of April 9.” Black Sabbath  bassist  Geezer Butler , Deep Purple  singer-bassist  Glenn Hughes , Avenged Sevenfold frontman M. Shadows , System of a Down  singer  Serj Tankian , Rage Against the Machine guitar great Tom Morello and Halestorm  frontwoman  Lzzy Hale  will all make appearances on the disc. In addition, Draiman confirmed that his live band will employ Evanescence  /  Dark New Day drummer Will Hunt and Dope /  Eve to Adam guitarist Virus. Aside from Draiman, the band’s only other permanent member is onetime Filter guitarist Geno Lenardo. Draiman also mentioned that the video for ‘Vilify,’ which will serve as the aforementioned lead single, is filming today (Jan. 11). He concludes, “Album artwork coming soon! Can’t wait for all of you to hear this.” As previously reported, Draiman has described Device as an industrial band in the vein of Ministry and early Nine Inch Nails. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/disturbed-david-draiman-five-song-titles-debut-device-album/” title=”Next: David Draiman Reveals Five Device Song Titles” align=”center”]

Metallica To Headline Japan’s Summer Sonic Fest

Ethan Miller, Getty Images With a 3D film and a new album in the works, Metallica may not be able to spend a huge amount of time on the road this year. Given that thought, the announcement that the band will headline  Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival in August makes that ticket much more valuable. The group will headline at Tokyo’s QVC Marine Field on Aug. 10, then turn around and finish things out at Osaka’s Maishima Summer Sonic site the following night (Aug. 11). In addition to Metallica, top concert draw Muse and the reunited Stone Roses have also been confirmed for the event. Aside from Summer Sonic, Metallica will kick off 2013 with dates as part of Australia’s traveling Soundwave festival running Feb. 23 through March 4. They’ve also booked a pair of shows in Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa in April. In addition, Metallica have announced plans to bring back their Orion Music + More Festival for a two-night stand in June, this time located in the Detroit area. Their current final headlining appearance of the year comes Sept. 19 at the Rock in Rio festival. Though Metallica are working on new music, there’s not a high probability of any new material appearing during the band’s shows this year. The group has already stated that a 2014 release is more likely for their next disc. [button href=”http://loudwire.com/metallica-red-hot-chili-peppers-highest-grossing-touring-acts-2012/” title=”Next: Metallica Amongst 2012’s Highest Grossing Touring Acts” align=”center”]

Anthrax Tap Shadows Fall Guitarist Jon Donais to Fill Vacant Band Slot on Upcoming Tour

ESP Guitars / Megaforce Anthrax have not named a full-time replacement yet for exiting guitarist Rob Caggiano , but they will at least be covered for their upcoming tours. The band revealed that Shadows Fall guitarist Jon Donais will sit in with the band for their upcoming Fly Festival dates in India, the Soundwave Festival shows in a Australia and the group’s headlining slot on the  Metal Alliance trek in North America. Caggiano recently surprised fans by announcing his departure from Anthrax, stating he’d like to concentrate on producing and other studio work. With so many gigs on their 2013 itinerary, Anthrax acted swiftly to add Donais to their touring lineup “Jon is a bro and he’s a total f—ing ripper,” says Anthrax guitarist  Scott Ian of Donais. “I’ve worked with him twice on side projects and he tears it up. I’m excited to have him on my right burning up the stage with Anthrax. ’13′s gonna be a good year.” Donais expresses his excitement at the opportunity, adding, “I grew up on Anthrax. They’re the thrash scene, they’re one of the Big Four. I’d be crazy to not want to play with them. Initially, Rob called and told me he was leaving the band and asked if I’d be interested in filling in. Then Scott called me and everything fell into place.” The guitarist revealed that he’s also working closely with the man he’s replacing, as he and Caggiano are using Skype to work on solos and other guitar parts. “He’s being great,” reveals Donais. “I also have to give special thanks to my band [Shadows Fall] — Brian, Matt, Jason and Ed — who have been incredibly supportive and encouraged me to do this.” Shadows Fall, meanwhile, have t our dates scheduled from Jan. 26 through April 19. No word on who will be filling in for Donais on the block of dates that conflict with his stint on Anthrax’s trek. Anthrax 2013 World Tour: India: 2/16 — Dehli, India — Fly Festival 2/17 — Bangalore, India — Fly Festival Soundwave: 2/23 — Brisbane, Australia — Soundwave Festival 2/24 — Sydney, Australia — Soundwave Festival 3/1 — Melbourne, Australia — Soundwave Festival 3/2 — Adelaide, Australia — Soundwave Festival 3/4 — Perth, Australia — Soundwave Festival Metal Alliance: 3/22 — Anaheim, Calif. — House of Blues 3/23 — Las Vegas, Nev. — House of Blues 3/24 — Tempe, Ariz. — Marquee 3/25 — San Diego, Calif. — House of Blues 3/27 — Los Angeles, Calif. — House of Blues 3/28 — San Francisco, Calif. — Regency Ballroom 3/29 — Portland, Ore. — Crystal Ballroom 3/30 — Vancouver, British Columbia — Commodore Ballroom 3/31 — Seattle, Wash. — Showbox SODO 4/2 — Denver, Colo. — Summit Music Hall 4/4 — Minneapolis, Minn. — First Avenue 4/5 — Chicago, Ill. — House of Blues 4/6 — Detroit, Mich. — Fillmore 4/7 — Cincinnati, Ohio — Bogart’s 4/9 — Dallas, Texas — House of Blues 4/10 — Houston, Texas — House of Blues 4/12 — Orlando, Fla. — House of Blues 4/13 — Charlotte, N.C. — Tremont 4/14 — Silver Spring, Md. — Fillmore 4/16 — Cleveland, Ohio — House of Blues 4/18 — Philadelphia, Pa. — Theatre of Living Arts 4/20 — New York, N.Y. — Irving Plaza [button href=”http://loudwire.com/anthrax-opeth-hatebreed-headline-2013-new-england-metal-hardcore-festival/” title=”Next: Anthrax to Headline 2013 New England Metal + Hardcore Festival” align=”center”]