The guitar virtuoso has plans to release a live performance with the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra on DVD, VHS, and CD.

This new band features Queensryche's Kelly Grey (g) and Scott Rockenfield (d) alongside Damon Johnson (g, v), Scott Heard (g, v) and Roman Glick (b) - an EP is expected soon.

The Gothenburg death metal heroes have landed the opening slot on the second leg of Slipknot's U.S. tour.

The band is starting a contest for fans to create a new, grinding logo - looking for something sick, old-school (good examples are old Carcass and Napalm Death logos) and most importantly grindcore - the winner will get 0 and an Overthrow CD - the contest will run until the end of the month - the winner must submit the orginal art or high-resolution digital art - send entries to: unkindesign@earthlink.net.

The German death / doom act has signed a three-album deal with Nuclear Blast.

Drummer Sven Vormann has left the band due to his distaste for the touring lifestyle.

The voice of Testament underwent surgery earlier this month to remove the remaining cancer - doctors were able to remove 90% of the tumor - as complete removal of the tumor was not possible due to the proximity to his vital organs, Chuck will have to undergo additional rounds of chemotherapy.

The band's North American tour was cut short as the result of poor attendance - before it came to an end the Flots were joined on stage by the Mets' Mike Piazza who joined them for a rendition of "Back in Black" and "Me";.

Bassist Sami Vänskä has been replaced by Marco Hietala (Tarot, Sinergy) - in addition Spinefarm's Ewo Rytkönen has been brought on board as manager - the band is currently arranging and rehearsing the songs for the next album.

Blabbermouth reports that the band have broken their ties with Century Media after a lengthy legal battle.