The country of Italy has made some noteworthy contributions to humanity throughout the ages. The creations of Galileo Galilei, Leonardo da Vinci and Michaelangelo certainly rank in the grand scheme of things, but what would this millennium be without the contributions of Lacuna Coil?

Taking the L.A. stage for the last show of their first North American tour with Moonspell dressed in what could easily be mistaken as debuts from Giorgio Armani’s Fall/Winter Collection, the Italian sextet opened with “To Live Is To Hide” from 2001’s Unleashed Memories and continued to treat the sold-out crowd to “When A Dead ...

The current Savatage guitarist is releasing a solo album on Noise Records that will feature the talenst of the following metal all-stars: Jon Oliva (Savatage), Bobby 'Blitz' Ellsworth (Overkill), Rob Rock (Axel Rudi Pell, Warrior), Joe Comeau (Annihilator, Overkill), James Rivera (Helstar, Destiny's End), Warrel Dane (Nevermore), Bruce (Agent Steel), Wade Black (Seven Witches, Crimson Glory), John West (Royal Hunt), Chris Caffery (Savatage), Mike Chlasciak (Halford), Joey Vera (Armored Saint), Mike Duda (W.A.S.P.), Bill Mezz (Seven Witches), Derek Tailer (Overkill), Jeff Plate (Savatage), Brian Craig (Seven Witches).

The band will now be booked by The Agency Group (Slipknot, Judas Priest, Creed).

After searching for a session synth player for upcoming touring duties, the band has decided to settle on searching for a session bassist while Mirai takes over the synth and vocals for live performances - Yasuyuki (Abigail) is auditioning for the position.

Bassist Alessandro Lotta has been replaced by Patrice Guers (Consortium Project, Patrick Rondat).

The MetalReviews Team

Plans are in the works to release a 2CD set of remixes performed by the band's current line-up, as well as a compilation of b-sides.

The pact is sealed. Jack Frost is releasing his soloalbum on Noise. 18 of the best metal musicians have joined forces to make this album a very special one. "Xiled To Infinity And One" will be recorded by Jack Frost (Savatage), Wade Black (Ex-Crimson Glory), Brian Craig (Ex-Destiny's End) and Bill Mez. + Jon Oliva (Savatage) singing on two songs! Can you imagine what kind of storm will come upon us? ... !

Iron Savior is confirmed to play next years Wacken Open Air Festival 2002! The band is currently recording tracks for the follow up album of 'Dark Assault'. Everything is in time, and it looks like the CD with the working title 'Condition Red' will hit the stores in April.

Today we have to give you the saddest news ever. Chuck lost the fight for his life on December 13 2001 at 4 PM EST. We are all in shock and despite any expectations we had, we can't believe that this is really happening.