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Iced Earth - New Vocalist & European Tour Dates Announced

Official press release

In the wake of vocalist Matt Barlow's retirement, dozens of demos and resumes flooded Iced Earth's management team. But one name kept popping up - Into Eternity vocalist Stu Block, who has been named the new lead singer for Iced Earth.

According to Schaffer, Robert Kampf, CEO of Century Media, early on suggested Block, whose band Into Eternity was previously on the CM label. That reminded Schaffer of one night in September, 2008, when Into Eternity opened for Iced Earth.

"Iced Earth was backstage waiting to go on," said Schaffer. "We heard one of Stu's incredible wails. I remember turning to Matt and saying, 'Damn, that dude has serious range.'"

So while Iced Earth's management team sifted through the growing number of prospective vocalists, Schaffer got in touch with Block. After several phone conversations with the then-prospective Iced Earth vocalist, Schaffer asked his manager to e-mail Block several key Iced Earth songs, with the vocals stripped. Block went into his studio and recorded himself singing, then sent the files back to the team. The result landed Block an intense two days at Schaffer's studio where the two musicians hit it off.

"I felt a lot of chemistry between us, we knocked out a couple of great original pieces of music in no time" said Schaffer. "He's very good at coming up with catchy melodies, and will help with lyrical duties as well. There's no doubt Stu has an amazing vocal range and a lot of energy, but he also has the touring experience, which is a big plus for our plans of performing in all corners of the world."

In addition, Schaffer said Block has what Iced Earth needs in a front man: "stage presence that includes high energy, passion, and focused rage."

"Stu is charismatic and understands the depth and varying emotions in Iced Earth's music," said Schaffer. "So he will embody not only the emotion of our songs, but he will be able to perform them in a dynamic way. I believe fans are in for some incredible records and live shows in the coming years."

(Photo courtesy of Cortney Roth)

New Iced Earth vocalist Stu Block concurs: "Iced Earth fans are wonderful, wonderful people," he said. "The music is so passionate. So they're passionate, and very loyal to the band. I am, too. I'm a huge fan of Iced Earth myself. So I share that same passion, and I will show it on stage. I think the fans are really going to dig it."

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Event: Iced Earth: World Dystopia Tour 2011-2012
Posted: 16.03.2011 by Mihailo_FF | Comments (50)


Iced Earth - Vocalist Is Leaving The Band Again

Matt Barlow is retiring from Iced Earth again.

Barlow cites his commitment to his family and the need for Iced Earth to tour more as the reasons for his retirement. He'll still perform with Iced Earth on all 2011 European festival dates, which will be his last with the band. Barlow fronted Iced Earth from 1992 till 2003, and rejoined late 2007.

Matt Barlow's heartfelt statement reads as follows: "Let me begin by saying how much of an honor it has been to share my time in Iced Earth with Jon and the guys... and with all of you! Since my return to the band in 2007, it has truly been extraordinary. I have had the opportunity to travel the world and see old friends and meet new ones. Though we had originally thought that the Iced Earth touring schedule would be very limited, we were able to play our fair share of concerts.

During that time we were also able to have a live DVD produced forthcoming Festivals Of The Wicked]. However, due to the rapidly changing music industry, it has become increasingly clear to recording artists that the only way to keep a band viable and to truly reach its potential is through live performances. That means that a band must reach out to new regions of the globe and become pioneers for their own livelihood. Since 2007, Jon and I have always had the best intentions for the future of Iced Earth, and we still do. However, given the band's projected touring schedule, Iced Earth's future and mine must now take separate paths.

On my departure from Iced Earth in 2003, I made a commitment to my wife and to the idea that we would start, and raise, our family together. Two years later, my first child was born and two years after that, my second. My youngest son was born about a week before Jon asked me to return to Iced Earth. It was a very exciting and emotional time for all of us, but we were all clear on our intentions. It is apparent to us now that regardless of our belief at that time, time can change an intended outcome. In this instance, I hope that change will not be regarded as a bad thing, but rather as a necessary part of evolution.

Jon and the band must venture into new realms to continue to grow Iced Earth. I commend him for his ideals and wish nothing but to share in his vision. I know that this is not the last time Jon and I will work together, but it will be my last endeavor with Iced Earth. Iced Earth is a name and force of its own. It has been very good to me and has allowed me to live a dream that others would give most anything for. I have been truly blessed to share this experience with everyone. I will continue to support Jon and Iced Earth in every way. I will also continue to create and perform in my own capacity.

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 02.03.2011 by Thryce | Comments (54)


Iced Earth - Dropping A New Album Later This Year

Metal Storm received the following update on Iced Earth.

On January 24th, Iced Earth joins 39 other metal bands from around the world on the four-day 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise - and promises one hell of a show.

"I'm excited," said Iced Earth founder Jon Schaffer. "We've been looking forward to this for months. This is our first show of 2011 so we intend to go balls-to-the-wall and make some of our own waves in the Caribbean."

Drummer Brent Smedley and lead guitarist Troy Seele agree. "We are so excited about the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise," Smedley said. "So many great bands all in one place! Also, we look forward to hanging out with all of the fans. What better way to start the new year than with TONS of METAL, 2,000 fans, and 24/7 bars. Let the Metal flow, cruise-ship style!"

Added Seele: "The band is excited to be able to get so close to the fans. What better way than to be on a floating island of metal?"

Iced Earth is scheduled to play two blistering one-hour sets, comprised of some two-dozen fan-favorite songs. The full 70,000 Tons of Metal line-up can be found here.

This promises to be a banner year for Iced Earth. Not only is a new album in the works for release late 2011 (followed by a world tour), but Iced Earth will release a 6-hour, three-concert live DVD this Spring. More info on the Festivals of the Wicked DVD release was previously reported over at this location.

Plus, the band was recently confirmed to play European festivals Wacken Open Air, Graspop Metal Meeting, and Rock am Härtsfeldsee. More festival dates will be announced soon.

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 22.01.2011 by Thryce | Comments (15)


Iced Earth - Festivals Of The Wicked DVD Release

Can Iced Earth fans handle nearly six hours of their favorite metal band? They'll soon find out.

An intense two-minute trailer from the long-awaited live DVD extravaganza Festivals of the Wicked has just been posted to the Iced Earth website. Go check it out!

Festivals of the Wicked boasts nearly six hours of Iced Earth - three full headliner shows (over 40 live tracks!), a photo gallery shot by famed rock photographer Ross Halfin, plus a 90-minute documentary. The DVD will be released early in 2011.

"The last part of the DVD to be completed is the documentary," said Iced Earth main man Jon Schaffer. "Thousands of hours were shot and edited down to 90 minutes. It's very close to done. I have to say the footage of the band on stage is mind blowing. Those who have already seen us will love it. Those who haven't yet seen Iced Earth will be amazed by what this band can do on stage."

Drummer Brent Smedley concurs: "The three festivals featured on the DVD were all extremely remarkable and each one memorable in its own way," he said. "All three were amazing nights where the Metal and the Magic were fully flowing. I think the release of this DVD truly proves my mantra and favorite saying: METAL LIVES!"

Indeed it does.

Festivals of the Wicked shows Iced Earth in its favorite element - facing tens of thousands of screaming fans - and playing songs that demonstrate why Iced Earth fans are some of the most loyal in metal. The three soon-to-be-released festivals are:

Wacken Open Air (2007) with Tim Owens on lead vocals. The blistering 13-song set begins with a jaw-dropping rendition of "Burning Times" and closes with the band's signature track, "Iced Earth."

Rock Hard Festival (2008) with Matt Barlow on lead vocals. This festival, the first to feature Matt's return, storms through 15 songs, with "Dark Saga" leading the charge.

Metal Camp (2008) with Matt Barlow on lead vocals. A not-to-be-missed 16-song face melter of a concert that proves why some say Iced Earth is one of the top live bands in the world.

"I'm very proud of this DVD, and I'm grateful to fans for their patience," said Schaffer. "Getting this ready for release has been an enormous job, but a true labor of love. It will be worth the wait. I promise."

Iced Earth was recently confirmed to appear at Graspop Metal Meeting in Dessel, Belgium, on June 24th, 2011. Additional festival dates will be announced soon! Stay tuned for updates.

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 14.12.2010 by Thryce | Comments (20)


Iced Earth - An Update On The Band

Later this month, Iced Earth will be doing a four city mini-tour in the US. The show is promised to be a special night with a fan-selected Iced Earth set list, and the live debut of Sons Of Libery, the brainchild of Jon Schaffer featuring Schaffer on lead vocals. Here's the official press release:

"When Jon Schaffer does something, he does it right. Like creating an eclectic, fan-favorite set list for Iced Earth's upcoming limited-engagement U.S. tour.

"I wanted to give fans something really special," Schaffer said. "So I put together songs that include some we've rarely played live before, and at least one that reaches back to our first album. Even long-time fans of Iced Earth are going to be surprised."

Iced Earth kicks off its four-city U.S. tour on September 10 in Washington DC, followed by Chicago (September 21), New York (September 23), and West Hollywood (September 25).

But the set list isn't the only treat in store for fans of Iced Earth. Schaffer's Sons Of Liberty band, featuring Schaffer on lead vocals, makes its live debut on this tour.

"Sons of Liberty is a project that is near and dear to my heart," Schaffer said. "I'm very passionate about it. This is an opportunity for me to speak directly to the people. Hopefully, I can inspire them to look into the message and wake up to what is going on around them. This isn't about me thinking I'm a great singer or front man. In fact, through the rehearsing process my respect has only grown for Matt Barlow. Doing lead vocals presents a whole new set of challenges for me."

According to Schaffer, the response to his Sons of Liberty album Brush-Fires of the Mind has been overwhelming. It was only officially released on July 13, but already tens of thousands of copies have been sold and given away on his web site. Hundreds more are downloaded every week.

But as popular as Sons of Liberty has become, it's Iced Earth that takes center stage this month. "We haven't been this energized and passionate in a long time," Schaffer said. "We are definitely going to kick ass, and have a lot of fun doing it."

Preparing for the four-city tour isn't all that's been keeping Schaffer busy these days. He's also working on a new Iced Earth album (scheduled for release Spring, 2011), a live DVD (scheduled for release before the end of this year), and a special project he will only say fans will "freakin' love."

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 09.09.2010 by Thryce | Comments (25)


Iced Earth - An Update From Jon Schaffer

Jon Schaffer and IcedEarth.com got together on March 13, 2009 for an update on the band's forthcoming live DVD as well Jon's plans for the immediate future. The interview was posted a few days ago already, and here are the main talking points of the interview are outlined below, while the audio interview can be downloaded here (mp3 format, 8.4 MB).

Regarding the immediate plans for Iced Earth:

"Well, right now I'm wrapping up the post-production for the, "Festivals Of The Wicked" DVD which I expect will come out late Summer or Fall of this year. I don't know that for sure, it depends on when we wrap things up, but that's the plan. That's the next project.

Iced Earth is going to be taking some downtime. I've been very, very busy. I haven't taken any kind of vacation in six years and I have been non-stop Iced Earth for three-and-a-half years - from the beginning of the writing of both of these records through the recording, the touring - and there has been a lot of touring... it's just time. I need to step back from it a little bit. And I've got other things planned for this year which I'll be announcing in due course, but my goals are for right now are to get the DVD finished and (then) to get away completely - no cell phones, no e-mail, no contact with the outside world, just me and my family at a very nice isolated place, no music business, no nothing, and it's going to be awesome. That's going to be cool and I plan to come back completely recharged and ready to kill."

Regarding the kind of projects Jon will be working on after returning from vacation:

"You're going to have to wait and find out my man. I mean, I'm just not ready to divulge yet. I've got a few irons in the fire and some things I'm very excited about. Hansi Kürsch (Blind Guardian) and I have planned late in 2009 to get together to do Demons And Wizards stuff so that's going to be cool. We saw each other in Cologne (earlier this year) and made plans and I think it's realistic to say that there will be a third Demons And Wizards album probably mid- to late 2010. We're going to have two song writing sessions. We are committed to doing the bulk of this in-person. One of the things I felt like from the last Demons And Wizards album was that we had this window of opportunity where we had to get it done and we kind of let time dictate the schedule instead of our feelings and that was probably a mistake. I mean I'm proud of that record ("Touched by the Crimson King" 2005) and it sold killer and it's a good album but I think Hansi and I are capable of a lot more especially when we get back to the root reasons of why we did this thing together.

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 05.04.2009 by Biedrik | Comments (20)


Saxon - Co-Headlining European Tour With Iced Earth

Official Steamhammer/SPV press release

Titans among themselves: 1 February 2009 will see the launch of a four-week tour by the two metal legends, Saxon and Iced Earth, in Paris. This sensational co-headlining package is certainly among the strongest of recent years and will take the two bands through countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxemburg, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Poland, Austria, Hungary and Italy. Fans can look forward to dynamic power metal at its very best, especially since both groups will also present thoroughly exciting new releases to accompany the tour. Tickets for the concerts are available from ticketing agencies.

Saxon are considered one of the most charismatic acts of today's metal business. Their latest album release, "Into The Labyrinth", out on 12 January 2009 (Germany: 9 January 2009, US: 13 January) via Steamhammer/SPV proves that Saxon mark 2009 haven't lost any of their expressiveness, enthusiasm and inspiration. Along with numerous classics, vocalist Biff Byford & Co. will present the strongest tracks from their new album during the tour, expertly combining present and past.

For Iced Earth, this will be the first full European tour since the return of frontman, Matt Barlow. "I am pleased Matt is back," explains guitarist and songwriter Jon Schaffer. "We are brothers with a long, meaningful relationship behind us" The band will present songs from their current album, "The Crucible Of Man", and for spring Schaffer has also announced the release of a new DVD.

Tourdates:

01.02.2009 F Paris Bataclan
02.02.2009 B Brussels AB
03.02.2009 NL Tilburg 013
04.02.2009 D Cologne Essigfabrik
06.02.2009 LUX Luxembourg Den Atelier
07.02.2009 D Herford X
08.02.2009 D Hamburg Docks
10.02.2009 NO Oslo Rockefeller
11.02.2009 SE Stockholm Annex
12.02.2009 DK Copenhagen Pumpehuset
13.02.2009 D Berlin Huxleys
15.02.2009 PL Warsaw Spodac
16.02.2009 CZ Zlin tba
17.02.2009 A Vienna Gasometer
19.02.2009 HU Budapest Petofi Hall
20.02.2009 SI Ljubljana Mediapark
21.02.2009 HR Zagreb Boogaloo
22.02.2009 I Milan Rolling Stone
24.02.2009 CH Zurich Volkshaus
25.02.2009 F Strassbourg La Laiterie
27.02.2009 E Bilbao Rockstar Live
28.02.2009 E Madrid La Riviera
01.03.2009 E Barcelona Razzmatazz

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Source: saxon747.com
Band profile: Saxon
Event: Saxon + Iced Earth
Posted: 27.11.2008 by Thryce | Comments (14)


Iced Earth - New Album Samples Online

Audio samples of Iced Earth's new full-length studio album, entitled "The Crucible Of Man (Something Wicked - Part 2)", have been posted online on the group's MySpace page.

"The Crucible Of Man (Something Wicked - Part 2)" will be released through SPV Records on the following dates:

Germany, Austria, Switzerland: September 5
Rest Of Europe: September 8
USA, Canada: September 9

"The Crucible Of Man (Something Wicked - Part 2)" cover] tracklisting:

01. In Sacred Flames
02. Behold The Wicked Child
03. Minions Of The Watch
04. The Revealing
05. A Gift Or A Curse
06. Crown Of The Fallen
07. The Dimension Gauntlet
08. I Walk Among You
09. Harbinger Of Fate
10. Crucify The King
11. Sacrificial Kingdoms
12. Something Wicked (Part 3)
13. Divide And Devour
14. Come What May
15. Epilogue

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Source: myspace.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 30.08.2008 by Abattoir | Comments (13)


Iced Earth - New Album Update

IcedEarth.com has posted the cover art Link] for the band's forthcoming full-length studio album, "The Crucible Of Man (Something Wicked Part II)" which continues where their 2007 release, "Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part I)" left off. "The Crucible Of Man" features the return of frontman Matt Barlow who was Schaffer's original voice of choice to introduce the "Something Wicked" saga back in 1998 as a trio of songs which concluded their album, "Something Wicked This Way Comes".

While the 1998 album provided a general overview of the story Schaffer has been conceptualizing for well over a decade, the saga is being fully brought to life with the release of the back-to-back conceptual albums "Framing Armageddon" and "The Crucible of Man". While both albums provide answers to mysteries the previous releases would create, the timeliness of the story in today's world is guaranteed to keep people thinking and guessing. Schaffer's ability to convey the central themes and events of the story without always revealing exactly "why" characters' decisions are made and "how" events come to pass, will keep fans of the saga coming back as future mediums for the "Something Wicked" storyline are revealed.

A finalized tracklisting for "The Crucible Of Man" and audio interview with Jon Schaffer covering the new material will be featured at IcedEarth.com later this month. The band will begin rehearsals next week for a run of dates in June as direct support for Judas Priest in Europe (dates here), as well as the Hellfest, Bang Your Head, Graspop, and Gods Of Metal European festivals.

"The Crucible Of Man" is due for a late August or early September release on Steamhammer/SPV. The release will then be followed by a North American tour that kicks-off in September and features an appearance as headliner for the ProgPower USA IX festival in Atlanta, Georgia on September 27. The North American dates will be announced at IcedEarth.com when they are confirmed.

The single from the new album is titled, "I Walk Among You" and is being released worldwide this week by Steamhammer/SPV and features the new track, "I Walk Alone, " as well as three additional songs from "Framing Armageddon" with new vocal performances by Matt Barlow. All tracks can be listened to in their entirety at both the band's official website and MySpace page with exception of the track, "A Charge To Keep" which is an iTunes exclusive.

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 11.06.2008 by White Winter Sun | Comments (15)


Iced Earth - New Single Widget Online

A widget for Iced Earth's forthcoming single "I Walk Among You" can be found at this location

The new single and proceeding full-length studio album mark the return of longtime frontman, Matt Barlow to the band who's dark and sinister tones are the perfect fit to narrate the intense and viscous annihilation of mankind set in motion with the birth of the story's main character, "Set Abominae", in "Something Wicked Part II". The single will allow fans to get a glimpse of the bright future for the band, and the perhaps not-so-bright future for humanity as we now know it. The single will feature 3 songs, an exclusive version of the song "I Walk Alone" and a few tracks from "Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part 1)" with new vocal performances by Matt Barlow.
Due to the re-tracking of the lead vocals these tracks have been remixed and remastered. There will be an iTunes exclusive version of the single "I Walk Among You" that features "A Charge To Keep" which has also been re-sung by Matt, remixed and re-mastered.

The full-length studio follow-up to "Something Wicked Part I" is due for release in fall of 2008 and it will be released by Steamhammer/SPV.

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Source: bravewords.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 30.05.2008 by SlaytallicA | Comments (4)


Iced Earth - Summer Tour Dates

While hard at work on their new album, Iced Earth are announcing more dates for what is shaping up to be a very busy summer. On top of performing at festivals across Europe, the band has just accepted to be special guest to Judas Priest in Holland, Germany and Switzerland. The updated schedule as follows:

MAY.02.2008 : Chicago Powerfest, Mokena, Illinois - USA
MAY.09.2008 : Centre De Foire, Quebec City - Canada
MAY.11.2008 : Rock Hard, Germany
JUN.21.2008 : Hellfest, France
JUN.22.2008 : IJsselhal, NL-Zwolle (with Judas Priest)
JUN 23.2008 : Philipshalle, DE-Düsseldorf (with Judas Priest)
JUN.24.2008 : Zenith, DE-München (with Judas Priest)
JUN.25.2008 : National Sportzentrum, CH-Huttwil (with Judas Priest)
JUN.27.2008 : Bang Your Head, Germany
JUN.28.2008 : Graspop Metal Meeting, Belgium
JUN.29.2008 : Gods Of Metal, Italy
JUL.05.2008 : Metal Camp, Slovenia
JUL.11.2008 : Via De La Plata Festival, Spain
AUG.14.2008 : Sziget Festival, HU-Obudai Island
AUG.16.2008 : Bloodstock, UK
SEP.27.2008 : ProgPower USA, Atlanta, Georgia - USA

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Source: blog.myspace.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 12.04.2008 by DoomGuard | Comments (4)


Iced Earth - Audio Samples From New Single Online

Iced Earth have posted audio clips from all four songs appearing on the band's forthcoming single, "I Walk Among You" at the band's official MySpace page. The single marks longtime frontman Matt Barlow's triumphant return to the band, and is sure to leave people yearning for more. "I Walk Among You" will precede the band's forthcoming full-length follow-up to "Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part I" in the Fall of 2008.

The tracklisting and release dates for "I Walk Among You" are as follow:

01. I Walk Alone
02. Setian Massacre
03. The Clouding
04. A Charge to Keep (exclusive iTunes track)

Germany : June 13, 2008
Europe : June 16, 2008
USA/Canada : June 17, 2008

Iced Earth kick-off a heavy dose of touring in 2008 on May 2 when they headline Chicago Powerfest in Mokena, Illinois.

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Source: blog.myspace.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 06.04.2008 by SteTech | Comments (11)


Iced Earth - New Single In June

With the framework for the Armageddon Of Man firmly laid with the band's 2007 full-length release, "Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part I", Iced Earth are set to launch the next installment of Jon Schaffer's "Something Wicked" saga with the release of their new single, "I Walk Among You", in June of 2008. The full-length studio follow-up to "Something Wicked Part I" is due for release in Fall of 2008.

The new single and proceeding full-length studio album mark the return of longtime frontman, Matt Barlow to the band who's dark and sinister tones are the perfect fit to narrate the intense and viscous annihilation of mankind set in motion with the birth of the story's main character, "Set Abominae", in "Something Wicked Part II." The single will allow fans to get a glimpse of the bright future for the band, and the perhaps not-so-bright future for humanity as we now know it.

The single will feature 3 songs, an exclusive version of the song "I Walk Alone" and a few tracks from "Framing Armageddon (Something Wicked Part 1)" with new vocal performances by Matt Barlow. Due to the re-tracking of the lead vocals these tracks have been remixed and remastered. There will be an iTunes exclusive version of the single "I Walk Among You" that features "A Charge To Keep" which has also been re-sung by Matt, remixed and re-mastered.

The video for "I Walk Alone" is being filmed in early April.

All tracks were recorded at Jon Schaffer's studio, Soaring Eagle Sound, and mixed and mastered at Morrisound. The single, and following full-length platter will be released by Steamhammer/SPV.

"I Walk Among You" cover] Tracklisting:

01. I Walk Alone
02. Setian Massacre
03. The Clouding
04. A Charge To Keep (exclusive iTunes track)

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 15.03.2008 by SteTech | Comments (11)


Iced Earth - Looking For A Tour Bassist

American metallers Iced Earth, is seeking a deeply passionate and motivated bass guitarist to complete the band's touring lineup for the 2008 tour season. The band posted the following requirements for the potential applicants:

If you have the chops to join Jon Schaffer and Brent Smedley in metal's most bulletproof rhythm section, read on.

Applicants must possess the following:

01. A demonstrated ability to play with impeccable timing and accuracy.
02. A commanding stage presence that bleeds intensity, aggression, and emotion.
03. Confidence in themselves but also a willingness to be a team player.
04. Proficiency in finger-style playing with some picking experience.
05. Residency in the United States (Midwest residence is a bonus, but not required).
06. A familiarity with the Iced Earth catalog.
07. A flexible work schedule, as this is not an offer for a full-time band position. However, should you land the gig and exceed our expectations in 2008, an opportunity for further collaboration on tour and in the studio will certainly be considered.

Applicants should submit the following:

01. A demo video on DVD is preferred, but an audio CD or cassette tape of your performance is also acceptable.
02. A photo of yourself if you do not submit a demo in video format.
03. A brief biography outlining your experience and gear setup.
04. Contact address, e-mail address, and phone number should we wish to interview you further.

Before we outline the format of your demo submission, know that, we are not interested in listening to a fully produced recording. Do not send us only a finished CD release from any band that you have played with. We cannot judge your level of timing and accuracy if you send us a recording that's been mixed and produced.

A simple live home video or audio recording on a CD/cassette tape that documents your playing is all we need to know if you possess the finely-tuned skills we require. This, in addition to any recording of a live performance will be a plus in telling us what we need to know.

The following is what is required for further consideration:

01. A recording of you sitting down by yourself and playing live along to a click-track.
02. Playing a minimum of 4 songs of varying tempos from Iced Earth or a combination of songs from Iced Earth and legendary bands such as Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath or Rush. Pick well-known songs with challenging bass lines.

Please send your bio and demo materials in video or audio format to:

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Source: icedearth.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Posted: 26.01.2008 by Bararey | Comments (23)


Iced Earth - To Headline ProgPower USA IX

The following statement was posted on ProgPower USA's website:

American power metal giants Iced Earth have been confirmed as the headliner for ProgPower USA IX, which returns to Atlanta's Center Stage on September 26 & 27.

Iced Earth founder, Jon Schaffer had the following to say regarding the festival:"Well, it's been a long time coming, but things have finally lined up right for us to be able to do Glenn's festival. It's truly an honor for Iced Earth to play the ProgPower USA festival. I flew down several years ago to check it out and it is definitely a top notch operation. It's really a model for the way festivals should be run, good people with integrity make all the difference in any organization, and Glenn and his crew are all that and more. This is something that we've wanted to do for a long time and it's finally going to work out perfectly for our plans in 2008.Part 2 of the "Something Wicked" epic will be out right around this time and it will be a killer celebration! This will be very cool, and a good time will be had by all!We look forward to seeing you there!" I am beyond excited to have America's premiere metal band on stage at America's premiere metal festival" said promoter Glenn Harveston. I may be the promoter, but I'm just as big a fanboy as everyone else in wanting to see them here in Atlanta. I want to personally thank Jon Schaffer for believing in me and the festival.

ProgPower USA IX marks the first confirmed show with returning vocalist Matt Barlow to the group.

Joining Iced Earth at the festival are Florida's Jon Oliva's Pain, Poland's Riverside, Germany's Iron Savior, Denmark's Volbeat, Sweden's Andromeda, Italy's Elvenking, France's Spheric Universe Experience, Austria's Serenity, and Italy's Pathosray.

The second festival headliner is scheduled to be announced within the next few weeks.

Harveston also has announced a roster change, "I'm afraid that Astral Doors will not be able to make their scheduled appearance. This is 100% my fault as I knew there was a risk involved with booking them so early. I appreciate the professionalism the band has shown and can now announce that they are the first band confirmed for ProgPower USA X. Florida's Rob Rock has graciously stepped into their former slot."

Tickets for ProgPower USA IX go on sale March 1st and limited to 900 tickets.

Advance gold badges are sold-out for the seventh consecutive year.

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Source: progpowerusa.com
Band profile: Iced Earth
Event: ProgPower USA IX
Posted: 15.01.2008 by DoomGuard | Comments (5)