Paganfest 2025 – featuring Alestorm, Ensiferum, Týr, Heidevolk and Elvenking – kicked off on January 8 in Hamburg, Germany at Grosse Freiheit. Alestorm has shared a behind-the-scenes vlog from their January 16th show in Birmingham, England at O2 Academy. Check it out below.
Remaining dates on the tour are as follows:
January 19 – London, United Kingdom – O2 Academy Brixton 20 – Brussels, Belgium – Ancienne Belgique 21 – Wiesbaden, Germany – Schlachthof 22 – Paris, France – Zenith 23 – Pratteln, Switzerland – Z7 Konzertfabrik 24 – Geiselwind, Germany – Eventzentrum * extended show with special guests 25 – Munich, Germany – Backstage 26 – Liege, Belgium – OM 28 – Milan, Italy – Alcatraz 29 – Lyon, France – Transbordeur 30 – Lausanne, Switzerland – Salle Metropole 31 – Meisenthal, France – Halle Verrière
February 1 – Leipzig, Germany – Felsenkeller 2 – Tilburg, Netherlands – 013 Poppodium 3 – Hannover, Germany – Capitol 5 – Krakow, Poland – Studio 6 – Warsaw, Poland – Progresja 7 – Zlin, Czechia – Hala Datart 8 – Budapest, Hungary – Barba Negra *extended show with special guests 9 – Zagreb, Croatia – Tvornica
German folk musician Patty Gurdy recently released a new single, “Peg Leg Silly-Billy”, featuring a guest performance by Alestorm frontman, Christopher Bowes. Check out the official video below.
The year 2025 marks Todd Sucherman’s return to playing Sonor drums, re-embracing the Sonor sound that he fell in love with as a young musician. Modern Drummer has shared an exclusive video of Sucherman playing his new Sonor kit at a recent show in South Florida. Host David Frangioni dives deep with him in this can’t-miss reveal.
Sucherman is a hero on stage known for his exceptional blend of musicianship and showmanship powering the iconic rock band Styx both live and in the studio since 1995.
“I just want to play the instrument that I love,” states Sucherman “I’ve never forgotten the sound of the Sonor kit I had when I was a kid playing music with my brothers and that sound has never left my heart. Coming back to Sonor and reliving my sound, the sound that grabbed me when I was young, gives me that hunger and excitement all over again.”
With thoughtful and powerful drumming, Sucherman inspires drummers everywhere from the stage, online, and through his commitment to masterclasses between tour dates.
“We at Sonor are proud and honored to welcome Todd Sucherman back to his home behind a Sonor kit,” states Sonor US Brand Manager Jeff Mulvihill.
Styx hit the road this month, and Sucherman is behind a brand new Sonor SQ2 series Kit featuring Heavy Beech Shells finished in African Marble High-Gloss Veneer appointed with 24K gold fittings for a stunning look and the exceptional Sonor sound.
Sucherman previously shared the video below, stating: “I have returned home to Sonor drums in 2025. My first recording studio experience at age nine was on a Sonor kit the studio had and then I played this magnificent brand until I was thirty. I’m thrilled to return to the drums of my youth and they are now the drums of my future. I find myself excited beyond comprehension to create music on these astonishing, exquisitely made instruments that are truly breath taking and inspiring to play.
“I wish to thank Jerry Goldenson, Jeff Mulvihill, Henry Go and the whole team in the USA as well as Nico Lang, Christian Figgen, Jannis Köckmann and the entire team in Germany. Their collective enthusiasm, expertise, help and support was immeasurable. Thanks also to Mark Eldridge, Steele Turkington, Jim Feck, Ronn Dunnett and Mark Petrocelli for their contributions to the studio and live sets.
“I look forward to all that is to musically happen in 2025 and beyond as we celebrate Sonor’s 150th anniversary. Onward we go!”
KISS Cancer Goodbye III, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, took place December 6 – 8, 2024 in Sarasota, Florida.
The Handsome Devils performed the entire Creatures Of The Night album at Kiss Cancer Goodbye III, and benefit organizers are releasing the entire show on their YouTube channel. Every week, a new video will appear on Friday at 8am PST.
The Handsome Devils is comprised of: Todd Kerns (Slash Featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators) – guitar and vocals, Gabriel Connor (Red Devil Vortex) – bass and vocals, Joey Cassata (Ace Frehley) – drums, and Luis Kalil (Red Devil Vortex) – lead guitar.
Professionally filmed video, courtesy of Undaunted Media, of The Handsome Devils performing “Danger” from Creatures Of The Night, which was released in 1982 via Casablanca Records, can be enjoyed below.
Check out the previously released videos for “Creatures Of The Night”, “Saint And Sinner”, “Keep Me Comin'”, and “Rock N’ Roll Hell”:
Trivium frontman Matt Heafy has made no secret of his influences over the years. Everyone from Metallica and Slayer to death metal pioneers Death and black metal icons Emperor have shaped the singer/guitarist’s music over the years. But there’s one, less obvious band who proved to be an early influence on Heafy, shaping a key track on the Florida metallers’ breakthrough 2005 album Asendancy.
Speaking exclusively in the brand new issue of Metal Hammer ahead of Trivium’s upcoming joint tour with Welsh metallers Bullet For My Valentine, Heafy looks back on the making of Ascendancy. Released in March 2005, it turned the youthful Florida four-piece into the hottest new name in metal – something rubber stamped by a now-legendary appearance at that year’s Download festival.
“Recording the album? It was easy, it was effortless,” Heafy tells Hammer. “We came into the studio having everything prepared beforehand, jamming in our storage place and singing and screaming the words. It was just a super-exciting time, full of hopes.”
The frontman also explains the stories behind each of the Ascendancy’s 12 tracks. Talking about the album’s final song, Declaration, he reveals one of the unlikely inspirations that shaped it – British stadium rockers Muse, and specifically their third album, 2003’s Absolution.
“This song is nuts,” says Heafy of Declaration. “You can hear a second of the Muse Absolution influence in the middle, but it’s also kind of Emperor IX Equilibrium in the verse.”
Heafy adds that Declaration centres on the idea of compassion and unity. “What I love is that it’s showing the champion of all walks of life that I’ve always been. Being a human being filled with compassion, empathy and humanity, I’ve had friends of all types, all races, all sexualities, all everything. How could you not want your friends or other people to just be able to enjoy life?
“So that’s what this song is about. This is a very violent, angry call for being a champion of all who deserve it.”
In the same interview, Heafy reveals the future Ascendancy song which helped Trivium bag their deal with Roadrunner following the band’s independently released debut album, Ember To Inferno.
“My dad was our manager, and he got an email from [Roadrunner A&R executive] Monte Conner, and he’s like, ‘You guys have the bones of what’s going to be something great with Ember…. You’re not there yet, but you’re close.’
“My dad, with great foresight, was like, ‘OK, he thinks we’re there. You guys go write three songs. We’re going to make a video for it and pay for it all ourselves.’
“So my dad paid for all this stuff, got studio time. We did the work; we wrote the songs and amongst ourselves we picked Like Light To The Flies as the music video. We sent it to Roadrunner and Monte’s like, ‘Oh, OK. You already did that. Yes. We will sign you now.’ They signed us immediately – that song changed my life.”
Read the full interview with Matt Heafy in the brand new issue of Metal Hammer, on sale now. Buy it on newsstands or order it online and have it delivered straight to your door.
A special bundle issue, featuring the new issue of the magazine with a unique cover plus a limited edition T-shirt not available anywhere else in the world, is also exclusively available through the Louder online store – but hurry before they all go.
Photo by Vicki L. Miller Licensed from Shutterstock
Michael Jackson, a visionary artist who reshaped popular music and culture, was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana. Growing up as the eighth of ten children in a family passionate about music, Jackson’s journey to superstardom began when he joined his older brothers in the Jackson 5. The group quickly rose to fame in the late 1960s under the guidance of Motown Records, dazzling audiences with hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC.” Even as a child, Michael’s dynamic stage presence and emotive voice set him apart, foreshadowing the solo career that would later cement his legacy.
The 1970s marked Jackson’s evolution as a solo artist, with albums like Got to Be There and Ben showcasing his ability to balance heartfelt ballads with contemporary pop. His collaboration with Quincy Jones on Off the Wall in 1979 signified a pivotal moment. The album’s infectious tracks, including “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You,” achieved commercial and critical acclaim, selling millions of copies and winning Jackson his first Grammy. This project not only demonstrated his versatility but also hinted at his future dominance of the global music stage.
In 1982, Jackson released Thriller, a cultural phenomenon that transcended music. The album’s innovative production, combined with iconic tracks like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It,” revolutionized the industry. Its music videos broke new ground, with the short film for “Thriller” becoming a landmark in visual storytelling. Garnering eight Grammy Awards and holding the title of the best-selling album of all time, Thriller solidified Jackson’s reputation as a musical genius and a pop culture juggernaut.
Following the unprecedented success of Thriller, Jackson continued to push boundaries with Bad (1987). With hits such as “Man in the Mirror” and “Smooth Criminal,” the album further showcased his ability to innovate and connect with diverse audiences. Jackson’s elaborate world tours and groundbreaking stage performances, including his signature moonwalk, redefined live entertainment. Albums like Dangerous (1991) and HIStory (1995) demonstrated his willingness to explore social issues, blending introspection with universal themes of hope and unity.
Throughout his career, Jackson’s influence extended beyond music. He supported numerous charitable causes, including his own Heal the World Foundation, and contributed millions to global humanitarian efforts. His pioneering music videos on MTV, his fashion statements, and his genre-blurring compositions inspired countless artists across generations. Accolades poured in, from Grammy Awards to inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, underscoring his impact as both an entertainer and a cultural icon.
Even as controversies and personal challenges shaped the later years of his life, Jackson’s artistic achievements remained unparalleled. His 2009 death at the age of 50 stunned the world, but his legacy endured through his timeless music and enduring influence. Albums like This Is It, posthumously released, offered glimpses of his creative vision, while his catalog continued to resonate with new audiences.
(A – C)
“2 Bad” – HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995) “2000 Watts” – Invincible (2001) “2300 Jackson Street” – 2300 Jackson Street (1989) “A Brand New Day” – The Wiz (1978) “A Place with No Name” – Xscape (2014) “Ain’t No Sunshine” – Got to Be There (1972) “Al Capone” – Bad 25 (2012) “All in Your Name” – Standalone Single (2011) “All the Things You Are” – Music & Me (1973) “Another Part of Me” – Bad (1987) “Baby Be Mine” – Thriller (1982) “Bad” – Bad (1987) “Be a Lion” – The Wiz (1978) “Beat It” – Thriller (1982) “Beautiful Girl” – The Ultimate Collection (2004) “Behind the Mask” – Michael (2010) “Ben” – Ben (1972) “Best of Joy” – Michael (2010) “Billie Jean” – Thriller (1982) “Black or White” – Dangerous (1991) “Blood on the Dance Floor” – Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix (1997) “Blue Gangsta” – Xscape (2014) “Break of Dawn” – Invincible (2001) “Burn This Disco Out” – Off the Wall (1979) “Butterflies” – Invincible (2001) “Call on Me” – Farewell My Summer Love (1984) “Can’t Get Outta the Rain” – B-side of “The Girl Is Mine” (1982) “Can’t Let Her Get Away” – Dangerous (1991) “Carousel” – Thriller (Special Edition) (2001) “Centipede” – Centipede (1984) “Cheater” – The Ultimate Collection (2004) “Chicago” – Xscape (2014) “Childhood” – HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995) “Cinderella Stay Awhile” – Forever, Michael (1975) “Come Together” – HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995) “Cry” – Invincible (2001)
(D – F)
“D.S.” – HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995) “Dangerous” – Dangerous (1991) “Dapper-Dan” – Forever, Michael (1975) “Dear Michael” – Forever, Michael (1975) “Dirty Diana” – Bad (1987) “Do You Know Where Your Children Are” – Xscape (2014) “Doggin’ Around” – Music & Me (1973) “Don’t Be Messin’ ‘Round” – Bad 25 (2012) “Don’t Let It Get You Down” – Farewell My Summer Love (1984) “Don’t Matter to Me” – Scorpion (2018) “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” – Off the Wall (1979) “Don’t Walk Away” – Invincible (2001) “Earth Song” – HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995) “Ease on Down the Road” – The Wiz (1978) “Eaten Alive” – Eaten Alive (1985) “Euphoria” – Music & Me (1973) “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” – Ben (1972) “Fall Again” – The Ultimate Collection (2004) “Farewell My Summer Love” – Farewell My Summer Love (1984) “Fly Away” – Bad (Special Edition) (2001) “For All Time” – Thriller 25 (2008) “Free” – Bad 25 (2012)
(G – J)
“Get It” – Characters (1987) “Get on the Floor” – Off the Wall (1979) “Ghosts” – Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix (1997) “Girl Don’t Take Your Love from Me” – Got to Be There (1972) “Girl You’re So Together” – Farewell My Summer Love (1984) “Girlfriend” – Off the Wall (1979) “Give In to Me” – Dangerous (1991) “Gone Too Soon” – Dangerous (1991) “Got the Hots” – Thriller 25 (Japanese Edition) (2008) “Got to Be There” – Got to Be There (1972) “Greatest Show on Earth” – Ben (1972) “Happy” – Music & Me (1973) “Heal the World” – Dangerous (1991) “Heartbreaker” – Invincible (2001) “Heaven Can Wait” – Invincible (2001) “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” – Farewell My Summer Love (1984) “HIStory” – HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995) “Hold My Hand” – Michael (2010) “Hollywood Tonight” – Michael (2010) “Human Nature” – Thriller (1982) “I Can’t Help It” – Off the Wall (1979) “(I Can’t Make It) Another Day” – Michael (2010) “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” – Bad (1987) “(I Like) The Way You Love Me” – Michael (2010) “I Wanna Be Where You Are” – Got to Be There (1972) “If’n I Was God” – Looking Back to Yesterday (1986) “I’ll Come Home to You” – Forever, Michael (1975) “I’m in Love Again” – Love Lives Forever (1980) “I’m So Blue” – Bad 25 (2012) “In Our Small Way” – Got to Be There (1972) “In the Back” – The Ultimate Collection (2004) “In the Closet” – Dangerous (1991) “Invincible” – Invincible (2001) “Is It Scary” – Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix (1997) “It’s the Falling in Love” – Off the Wall (1979) “Jam” – Dangerous (1991) “Je Ne Veux Pas la Fin de Nous” – Bad 25 (2012) “Johnny Raven” – Music & Me (1973) “Just a Little Bit of You” – Forever, Michael (1975) “Just Friends” – Sometimes Late at Night (1981) “Just Good Friends” – Bad (1987)
(K – O)
(T )
Check out our fantastic and entertaining Michael Jackson articles, detailing in-depth the band’s albums, songs, band members, and more…all on ClassicRockHistory.com
Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.
Feature Photo: Kåre Eide, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
ABBA, the Swedish pop sensation, originated in Stockholm in 1972, bringing together the talents of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. The group’s name is an acronym formed from the first letters of each member’s name. Prior to forming ABBA, each member had established themselves in the Swedish music scene: Fältskog and Lyngstad as solo artists, and Ulvaeus and Andersson as members of successful bands. Their collaboration began with the single “People Need Love” in 1972, marking the inception of their journey as a quartet.
ABBA’s breakthrough came in 1974 when they won the Eurovision Song Contest with “Waterloo,” propelling them to international fame. Over the course of their career, they released nine studio albums: Ring Ring (1973), Waterloo (1974), ABBA (1975), Arrival (1976), ABBA: The Album (1977), Voulez-Vous (1979), Super Trouper (1980), The Visitors (1981), and Voyage (2021). Their discography includes chart-topping singles such as “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and “The Winner Takes It All,” which have become timeless classics.
Throughout their career, ABBA received numerous accolades. In 1977, they were nominated for the inaugural BRIT Award for Best International Album for Arrival. They were honored with the Dutch Edison Award for The Album in 1978. In 1980, they received a Georgie Award from the American Guild of Variety Artists as the Best Vocal Group of the Year. Their enduring legacy was further cemented with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.
ABBA’s appeal lies in their ability to craft catchy melodies paired with relatable lyrics, transcending language barriers and resonating with audiences worldwide. Their innovative use of studio technology and harmonious vocals set them apart in the pop music landscape. The group’s flamboyant fashion and dynamic stage presence added to their charm, making them icons of the 1970s and early 1980s.
Beyond their musical achievements, the members of ABBA have engaged in various endeavors. Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus collaborated on musicals such as Chess and contributed to the creation of the stage musical Mamma Mia!, which was later adapted into successful films. Anni-Frid Lyngstad pursued a solo career and became involved in environmental causes, while Agnetha Fältskog also released solo albums and participated in charitable activities.
ABBA’s influence extends beyond their active years, with their music experiencing resurgences in popularity through various media. The release of the compilation album ABBA Gold in 1992 introduced their hits to new generations. The success of the Mamma Mia! musical and films further solidified their status in popular culture. In 2021, they surprised fans with the release of Voyage, their first studio album in 40 years, accompanied by a virtual concert residency featuring digital avatars of their younger selves, showcasing their willingness to embrace new technology.
(A – D)
“ABBA Undeleted” – Thank You for the Music (1994) “Al Andar” – Gracias por la música (1980) “Andante, Andante” – Super Trouper (1980) “Andante, Andante” (Spanish Version) – Super Trouper (Latin American and Spanish versions) (1980) “Angeleyes” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Another Town, Another Train” – Ring Ring (1973) “Arrival” – Arrival (1976) “As Good as New” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Bang-A-Boomerang” – ABBA (1975) “Bumblebee” – Voyage (2021) “Cassandra” – B-side to “The Day Before You Came” (1982) “Chiquitita” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Chiquitita” (Spanish Version) – Gracias por la música (1980) “Conociéndome, conociéndote” – Gracias por la música (1980) “Crazy World” – B-side to “Money, Money, Money” (1976) “¡Dame! ¡Dame! ¡Dame!” – Gracias por la música (1980) “Dance (While the Music Still Goes On)” – Waterloo (1974) “Dancing Queen” – Arrival (1976) “The Day Before You Came” – The Singles: The First Ten Years (1982) “Disillusion” – Ring Ring (1973) “Does Your Mother Know” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Don’t Shut Me Down” – Voyage (2021) “Dream World” – Thank You for the Music (1994) “Dum Dum Diddle” – Arrival (1976)
(E – H)
“Eagle” – The Album (1977) “Elaine” – B-side to “The Winner Takes It All” (1980) “En hälsning till våra parkarrangörer” – Swedish promo single 1972 (1972) “Estoy Soñando” – Gracias por la música (1980) “Felicidad” – Super Trouper (Latin American and Spanish versions) (1980) “Fernando” – Standalone single (1976) “Fernando” (Spanish Version) – Gracias por la música (1980) “From a Twinkling Star to a Passing Angel” – The Visitors (Deluxe Edition) (2012) “Gammal fäbodspalm” (Live) – Live at Wembley Arena (2014) “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Gonna Sing You My Love Song” – Waterloo (1974) “Gracias por la música” – Gracias por la música (1980) “Happy Hawaii” – B-side to “Knowing Me, Knowing You” (1977) “Happy New Year” – Super Trouper (1980) “Hasta Mañana” – Waterloo (1974) “Hasta Mañana” (Spanish Version) – Gracias por la música (1980) “He Is Your Brother” – Ring Ring (1973) “Head over Heels” – The Visitors (1981) “Hey, Hey Helen” – ABBA (1975) “Hole in Your Soul” – The Album (1977) “Honey, Honey” – Waterloo (1974) “Honey, Honey” (Swedish Version) – B-side to “Waterloo” (Swedish Version) (1974) “Hovas vittne” – Private release promo single (1981)
(I – L)
“I Am Just a Girl” – Ring Ring (1973) “I Am the City” – More ABBA Gold (1993) “I Can Be That Woman” – Voyage (2021) “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do” – ABBA (1975) “I Have a Dream” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “I Let the Music Speak” – The Visitors (1981) “I Saw It in the Mirror” – Ring Ring (1973) “I Wonder (Departure)” – The Album (1977) “If It Wasn’t for the Nights” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “I’m a Marionette” – The Album (1977) “I’m Still Alive” (Live) – Live at Wembley Arena (2014) “Intermezzo No. 1” (Instrumental) – ABBA (1975) “I Still Have Faith in You” – Voyage (2021) “I’ve Been Waiting for You” – ABBA (1975) “Just a Notion” – Voyage (2021) “Keep an Eye on Dan” – Voyage (2021) “The King Has Lost His Crown” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “King Kong Song” – Waterloo (1974) “Kisses of Fire” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Knowing Me, Knowing You” – Arrival (1976) “La reina del baile” (also titled “Reina Danzante”) – Gracias por la música (1980) “Lay All Your Love on Me” – Super Trouper (1980) “Like an Angel Passing Through My Room” – The Visitors (1981) “Little Things” – Voyage (2021) “Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)” – Ring Ring (1973) “Lovelight” – B-side to “Chiquitita” (1979) “Lovers (Live a Little Longer)” – Voulez-Vous (1979)
(M – R)
“Mamma Mia” – ABBA (1975) “Mamma Mía” (Spanish Version) – Gracias por la música (1980) “Man in the Middle” – ABBA (1975) “Me and Bobby and Bobby’s Brother” – Ring Ring (1973) “Me and I” – Super Trouper (1980) “Medley: Pick a Bale of Cotton / On Top of Old Smokey / Midnight Special” – Stars im Zeichen eines guten Sterns (1975) “Money, Money, Money” – Arrival (1976) “Move On” – The Album (1977) “My Love, My Life” – Arrival (1976) “My Mama Said” – Waterloo (1974) “The Name of the Game” – The Album (1977) “Nina, Pretty Ballerina” – Ring Ring (1973) “No Doubt About It” – Voyage (2021) “No hay a quien culpar” – The Visitors (Latin American and Spanish versions) (1981) “Ode to Freedom” – Voyage (2021) “On and On and On” – Super Trouper (1980) “One Man, One Woman” – The Album (1977) “One of Us” – The Visitors (1981) “Our Last Summer” – Super Trouper (1980) “People Need Love” – “People Need Love” standalone single (1972) “The Piper” – Super Trouper (1980) “Put on Your White Sombrero” – Thank You for the Music (1994) “Ring Ring” – Ring Ring (1973) “Ring Ring (Bara du slog en signal)” – Ring Ring (Scandinavian versions) (1973) “Ring Ring” (German Version) – “Ring Ring” German single (1973) “Ring Ring” (Spanish Version) – ABBA Más Oro: Más ABBA Exitos (1993) “Ring Ring” (Swedish/Spanish/German Medley) – Thank You for the Music (1994) “Rock Me” – ABBA (1975) “Rock ‘N’ Roll Band” – Ring Ring (1973)
(S – Z)
“Santa Rosa” – B-side to He Is Your Brother (1972) “Se me está escapando” – The Visitors (Latin American and Spanish versions) (1981) “She’s My Kind of Girl” – Ring Ring (International versions) (1973) “Should I Laugh or Cry” – B-side to One of Us (1981) “Sitting in the Palmtree” – Waterloo (1974) “Slipping Through My Fingers” – The Visitors (1981) “So Long” – ABBA (1975) “Soldiers” – The Visitors (1981) “SOS” – ABBA (1975) “Summer Night City” – Summer Night City standalone single (1978) “Super Trouper” – Super Trouper (1980) “Suzy-Hang-Around” – Waterloo (1974) “Sång till Görel” – Sång till Görel private release promo single (1979) “Take a Chance on Me” – The Album (1977) “Thank You for the Music” – The Album (1977) “Thank You for the Music” (Doris Day Version) – Thank You for the Music (1994) “That’s Me” – Arrival (1976) “Tivedshambo” (Instrumental) – B-side to Hovas vittne private release promo single (1981) “Tiger” – Arrival (1976) “Tropical Loveland” – ABBA (1975) “Two For the Price of One” – The Visitors (1981) “Under Attack” – The Singles: The First Ten Years (1982) “The Visitors” – The Visitors (1981) “Voulez-Vous” – Voulez-Vous (1979) “Watch Out” – Waterloo (1974) “Waterloo” – Waterloo (1974) “Waterloo” (French Version) – Waterloo French single (1974) “Waterloo” (French/Swedish Medley) – Thank You for the Music (1994) “Waterloo” (German Version) – Waterloo West German single (1974) “Waterloo” (Swedish Version) – Waterloo Swedish single (1974) “The Way Old Friends Do” (Live) – Super Trouper (1980) “Wer im Wartesaal der Liebe steht” – B-side to Ring Ring German single (1973) “The Winner Takes It All” – Super Trouper (1980) “What About Livingstone?” – Waterloo (1974) “When All is Said and Done” – The Visitors (1981) “When I Kissed the Teacher” – Arrival (1976) “When You Danced with Me” – Voyage (2021) “Why Did It Have to Be Me?” – Arrival (1976) “You Owe Me One” – B-side to Under Attack (1982) “Åh, vilka tider” – B-side to Ring Ring (Bara du slog en signal) (1973)
Check out our fantastic and entertaining ABBA articles, detailing in-depth the band’s albums, songs, band members, and more…all on ClassicRockHistory.com
Jorge Botas at Metal Global caught up with formere Nightwish bassist / vocalist Marko Hietala to discuss his forthcoming solo album, as well as his health and his decision to leave Nightwish in January 2021. Check out the interview below.
Hietala has gone on record numerous times saying that suffereing from depression and anxiety played a major role in his decision to leave Nightwish, and in his discussion with Botas he reveals it was ADHD (attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder) related.
Hietala: “It’s that feeling of difference that you do not match the other people’s capabilities of handling their daily tasks or whatever. And I was just always lost; everything was a mess and all that. And what do you know? There it is, the ADHD. It makes you, as a social creature, a tribal creature, that kind of a thing, the social isolation, it’s a slow way to death. We know that loneliness is a killer. Well, yeah, but I kind of learned to deal with it ever since I was a kid, but it doesn’t really make it necessarily easier. It had its consequences, and I was like that: ‘Nothing I ever do will make anything any better. Everything is grey and worthless, and I am too.’ That was the thing that had been growing on me. So, when this ADHD thing came up, then I read about it, went to the neuropsychological test and all that, and yep, I got it.”
“It’s a relief to know that there are things in your history and in yourself that you just cannot help. That’s what you are. So a lot of kind of guilt about things that were left undone or unsaid, or went went straight to hell from the things you did and said, suddenly you find out that, okay, actually, no matter how much you wish you would have acted differently, you couldn’t, with the knowledge you had that time. And you can forgive yourself for the shit. Then again, you can also forgive quite a lot of other people for not understanding. So, yeah, it’s a relief. You get a load off your chest.”
Accompanying the release of Marko Hietala’s new single “Rebel Of The North” is a unique and visually striking music video. Filmed against the breathtaking backdrop of a picturesque Spanish village, the video captures the band’s electrifying performance, seamlessly blended with the song’s bold and inspiring lyrics. The stunning contrast between the rugged rock sound and the tranquil Mediterranean setting makes this release a feast for the senses.
Marko Hietala comments: “This one is a rocker. The main riff will put you into the Nordics with a slam. And the story is about reimagining, reinventing, and then gathering yourself into a better new being. We should never take ourselves for granted. It leads to becoming jaded and boring. Your inner kid wants to learn and apply anything and everything. Just don’t get in the way of yourself.”
Listen to “Rebel Of The North” here, and watch the video below:
To mark the new album release, Marko Hietala will embark with his band on an album release tour across Finland. Dates below:
February 7 – Lahti, Finland – Finlandia Klubi 8 – Kuopio, Finland – Sawohouse Underground 12 – Helsinki, Finland – Tavastia 13 – Savonlinna, Finland – House Of Olaf 14 – Tampere, Finland – Olympia-kortteli 15 – Turku, Finland – Logomo
Roses From The Deep will be released in following formats:
“Frankenstein’s Wife” “Left On Mars” “Proud Whore” “Two Soldiers” “Dragon Must Die” “The Devil You Know” “Rebel Of The North” “Impatient Zero” “Tammikuu” “Roses From The Deep”
LP tracklisting:
“Frankenstein’s Wife” “Left On Mars” “Proud Whore” “Two Soldiers” “Dragon Must Die” “The Devil You Know” “Rebel Of The North” “Impatient Zero” “Tammikuu” “Roses From The Deep” “Impatient Zero” (Edit) “Frankenstein’s Wife” (Live at Utrecht 2024) “Left On Mars” (Live at Utrecht 2024)
“Impatient Zero” video:
“Frankenstein’s Wife” video:
“Left On Mars” video:
Lineup:
Marko Hietala – Bass, Vocals Tuomas Wäinölä – Guitar Vili Ollila / Bob Engstrand – Keyboards Anssi Nykänen – Drums
Loudwire has shared a new Gear Factor compilation video. Check it out below.
“Watch thrash legends like Scott Ian (Anthrax), Gary Holt (Exodus, Slayer), Alex Skolnick and Eric Peterson (Testament) and more play some of the riffs that made them into the musicians they are today.”
Gibson TV recently released a new episode of Riff Lords, along with the following message:
“Horns up! Make your New Year’s resolution to shred a reality with Gibson TV. Start your year strong with this new episode of Riff Lords featuring Eric Peterson of Testament breaking down 30 years of epic riffs. Learn from the master himself and make 2025 the year you level up your playing.
“Eric Peterson has been a thrash metal mainstay since co-founding Testament in 1983 and has influenced countless guitarists with his killer (and intricate) riffs, guitar techniques, and unique approach to chord phrasing, rhythm, and lead guitar. Grab your axe and hit play on this episode of Riff Lords to join Eric as he shows you how to play some of the most iconic Testament tracks that helped shape the metal scene.
“In this episode of Riff Lords, watch and learn how Eric Peterson creates his thrash metal sound, his picking and riff writing techniques, plus some backstory on how he wrote these parts. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at his process while learning to play Testament classics like ‘Over the Wall’ from The Legacy and ‘The Preacher’ from The New Order. Eric also breaks down some of Testament’s heaviest songs, including ‘D.N.R. (Do Not Resuscitate)’ from The Gathering and ‘Rise Up’ from Dark Roots of Earth.
“For acoustic fans, Eric plays stripped-down versions of ‘The Ballad’ from Practice What You Preach, plus more classic Testament guitar lessons that show you the correct way to play each riff, slowed down so you can follow along easily.
“Find out how he gets his riff tones and the techniques that have kept Testament at the top of the heavy metal heap for decades. These Testament guitar lessons from Eric Peterson are must-see for any Testament fan and thrash metal enthusiast.”
Catch Testament live at the following shows:
May 9 – Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival 2025 – Columbus, OH 18 – Welcome To Rockville 2025 – Daytona Beach, FL
June 18 – The Tivoli – Brisbane, Australia 20 – Metro Theatre – Sydney, Australia 21 – Northcote Theatre – Northcote, Australia 22 – The Gov – Hindmarsh, Australia 24 – Metropolis – Fremantle, Australia
Former Skid Row frontman, Erik Grönwall, has shared a new video along with the following introduction:
Erik: “Let’s start 2025 with a Q&A – thank you for all your questions. If your question wasn’t answered – don’t worry. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask me anything during our upcoming livestreams this year!”
When asked if he would ever consider rejoining his pre-Skid Row band, H.E.A.T, Erik offered the following:
“I love the guys. Jona, the keyboard player, he’s the godfather of my son. I stay in touch with the guys. I always say you should keep all doors open, but right now that feels like that’s a closed chapter.”
Live In London, Skid Row’s first official live album and concert film in a 35+ year career, is now available on heavyweight 2LP gatefold, CD + DVD, digital download and all streaming services via earMUSIC.
“Youth Gone Wild” is the latest video from the full program, and captures the rapture of a sold out 02 Forum Kentish Town London gone wild for the Skids and the culmination of a dream years in the making.
“As teens, we dreamt of playing places like the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ and CBGB in New York City… our dreams became bigger with London, England at the forefront. We fantasized one day to headline a show in the very city where so many of our favorite bands came from,” the band says.
Following the release of their critically acclaimed, hugely fan-embraced 2022 album The Gang’s All Here, the band took the 02 stage on October 22 and delivered a Skid Row set for the ages. Running through their multi-platinum career, the packed venue could barely contain the band’s and the fans’ energy on “18 And Life,” “Monkey Business,” “I Remember You” and so many other peak Skid Row moments.
Live In London is a defining live rock album… a band playing at the top of their game in front of a crowd that expected no less. Both Skid Row and the 02 public went far beyond expectations…and now the world can share in that moment.
Order/save the album now on Vinyl, CD, and all digital formats, here
Lzzy Hale is too young to have been an actual 80s rock star, but she grew up dreaming of being one. When one of her favourite bands from that era, New Jersey hellraisers Skid Row, announced the departure of their latest singer, Erik Grönwall, for health reasons, she got the call to replace him, fronting the band for four spectacular shows. This is what it was like to temporarily land the gig of a lifetime.
Lzzy Hale, Skid Row frontwoman. It’s got a great ring to it. How did you end up singing with your childhood heroes?
“Oh my goodness. It was a true full circle moment for me. When I told my dad, he was saying things like, ‘Hey, do you remember when you were rocking out to Skid Row’s Slave To The Grind in 1996, blasting it in your room?’ Every night [onstage with Skid Row], I was living out my teenage fantasy. Growing up, all I really wanted was to be that rock dude on MTV, riffing out in an 80s music video. It was so wonderful to be able to step into that role.”
How did the guys first approach you with the idea?
“Well, I’ve known Rachel [Bolan, bassist] and Snake [guitarist Dave ‘Snake’ Sabo] for the better part of a decade. One day, Rachel and I are eating cake at a birthday party. Out of the blue, he just asks me, ‘Would you ever consider playing some shows with us?’ My dumb brain goes, ‘Halestorm and Skid Row, that’d be cool!’ Obviously, that’s not what he means.
He’s like, ‘No, dummy, I mean you fronting Skid Row!’ Not even a week later, he calls me up, and it’s actually happening. He asks, ‘Are you in?’ So I called my ‘adults’ in management and cleared my schedule immediately.”
How did you prepare for it?
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“I was learning the songs like an Olympic sport. I’m singing on a trampoline, a stationary bike, working on my breath control. It was madness. But I was doing it because I wanted to be good for my friends. I can’t express how much I appreciate the trust they had in me. We didn’t even have proper rehearsal time, just one run-through together the day before the first show.”
When the first show came around, how did you feel?
“Before going out, I was nervous. Like, really nervous. But we got through it. By the second show, I just felt pure excitement. All I could think was, ‘This is amazing, I’m literally living out my teenage dreams right now!’”
What was a standout moment for you?
“On the third night, I’d started taking some liberties – holding notes a little longer, singing a little higher. When we got to Quicksand Jesus, I just kept dragging the song out. Snake played his usual guitar part, and I would imitate it with my voice – and he’d look panicked and play some more. After the show, he comes up like, ‘Lzzy, can I talk to you for a second?’ I immediately think I’m in trouble. But he gives me this huge hug. And he goes, ‘I have never gotten to improv with any of my singers.’ I will carry that with me forever.”
Skid Row x Lzzy Hale – “Youth Gone Wild” (in 4K) live in Sparks, NV. 5-31-24 – YouTube
“When the shows were announced, it was like a dam broke loose. I was hearing from people back home that I hadn’t heard from in 15 years saying, ‘I’m bringing my daughter, I’m bringing my dad!’ There were two distinct groups that came to the shows: the Halestorm fans bringing their dads and the Skid Row diehards. Each night I would get such beautiful compliments from all kinds of people, even fans that had been seeing Skid Row since 1987.”
Do any particular compliments spring to mind?
“Well, Jon Bon Jovi knows who I am, apparently. He was doing a radio interview, and I was asked to submit a question. My name comes up, and Jon immediately goes, ‘Oh, Lzzy Hale, she’s incredible – she really needs to join Skid Row.’ I knew all his songs growing up – it was such a surreal moment for me.”
There’s no love lost between Skid Row and their original singer, Sebastian Bach. Have you heard anything from him?
“I did hear some feedback through a friend. Personally, I have no problem with Sebastian – I love him, y’know? It’s none of my business what went down with the band. But I was still nervous to hear what he thought of me. Apparently he was saying things to the effect of ‘I can’t stand those guys, but she’s great, she’s really cool.’ Isn’t that sweet?”
Did the experience change you at all?
“It’s been kind of life-changing for me. I’ve been in Halestorm since I was 13, then all of a sudden, I’m 40, but inside I’m still this 13-year-old girl living on a 20-acre farm with my parents. So, when everybody started noticing me, noticing my consistency, my passion, my commitment, it got a little scary.
For most of my 30s, I was going through quite a bit of imposter syndrome. It was like, ‘Is that really me?’ When I turned 40, it was like something shifted. I’ve been giving myself a lot more grace and permission to be flawed, and I’m learning to accept what people think of me. I’m trying to believe that, for whatever reason, there is something inside of me that is beautiful that only I’m able to share.
“Skid Row was the final push that I needed to knock some major insecurities. I got a multigenerational view of what I can bring to the table. It was also the first time I have performed without hiding behind an instrument, purely riding on my voice. When I got home after the shows, I walked back through my front door a totally different person. I’m forever grateful to those boys for asking me to tag along. I can’t wait to do it again.”
So you’d be up for a second round?
“We left it like, ‘I can’t marry you, but we can totally have an affair sometime.’ If the guys send up the bat signal in a time of crisis, I’ll be there.”
Are you keeping yourself on top of the Skid Row stuff just in case?
“Snake’s guitar tech is actually on tour with us right now – we’ve stolen him for now. When we went out to karaoke, he signed me up for all these Skid Row songs. We sent videos to the guys like, ‘Look, I still know the lyrics!!’”
Full-time freelancer, part-time music festival gremlin, Emily first cut her journalistic teeth when she co-founded Bittersweet Press in 2019. After asserting herself as a home-grown, emo-loving, nu-metal apologist, Clash Magazine would eventually invite Emily to join their Editorial team in 2022. In the following year, she would pen her first piece for Metal Hammer – unfortunately for the team, Emily has since become a regular fixture. When she’s not blasting metal for Hammer, she also scribbles for Rock Sound, Why Now and Guitar and more.
