May 11, 2010

Philadelphia’s Black Metallers BLASPHEMOUS have parted ways with their longtime bassist, Decrepit. Vocalist RK has issued the following statement regarding the situation: "We have decided to part ways with bassist Decrepit. He’s been part of BLASPHEMOUS for most of our existence, covering two different stints with us. It always is tough to make a change, but sometimes it has to be done. We wish him luck in his future projects. Right now all live activity will be on hold until we find a replacement. We hope to see you all again soon. BLASPHEMOUS is looking for a new bass player. We have a couple releases out, including our newest release "Bearer Of The Darkest Plagues". We are looking for a dedicated bass player. We currently practice in Lindenwold, NJ (right outside of Philadelphia). Must have equipment and transportation. Someone who is a quick learner. The ability to write is a plus too. We are looking for someone thats over 18, preferrably from the PA / NJ / DE area. Be able to practice at least once a week. Be available for shows in and out of the Philly area. No drug addicts. No rock star egos, this is underground Metal, not Hot Topic Metal, so if you’re looking for fame and fortune you are looking in the wrong direction. Contact blasphemousmetal@hotmail.com if you are interested."

Relapse Records has announce a partnership with Perseverance Holdings Ltd. and the Schuldiner family to reissue the catalog of DEATH, CONTROL DENIED and MANTAS. Chuck Schuldiner’s DEATH, one of the most important and influential metal bands of all-time, will see the first official digital releases of it’s legendary albums "Scream Bloody Gore", "Leprosy", "Spiritual Healing", "Human", "Individual Thought Patterns" and "The Sound Of Perseverance" today at this location. These digital releases will come two days before Chuck Schuldiner would have celebrated his 43rd birthday. Schuldiner passed away on December 13, 2001 after fighting a long, recurring battle with brain cancer. Relapse will also reissue an expanded version of the classic debut album, "The Fragile Art Of Existence", from Schuldiner’s progressive Heavy Metal band CONTROL DENIED in late 2010 as well as the first-ever collection by his pre-DEATH project MANTAS. The expanded version of "The Fragile Art Of Existence" will include bonus tracks, extra band photography, expanded art and packaging and more. Details on both releases are forthcoming. Long-range plans include the completion and official release of the final CONTROL DENIED album "When Man And Machine Collide". Recorded over 10 years ago at Morrisound Studios with producer Jim Morris, the album was tracked by Schuldiner but left incomplete upon Chuck’s passing. A range of officially-licensed DEATH, CONTROL DENIED and MANTAS merchandise has also been issued here. Many classic album art designs will follow in the coming months, making some highly sought-after designs available officially for the first time in years. Stay tuned to EmptyWords.org, the official DEATH / CONTROL DENIED / Chuck Schuldiner website, and www.relapse.com for more information. Guitar World Magazine has released a special DEATH guitar transcription issue, available exclusively at this location. The book contains eight complete guitar and bass tabs for the following DEATH songs: ‘Pull The Plug’, ‘Zombie Ritual’, ‘Together As One’, ‘Spiritual Healing’, ‘Flesh And The Power It Holds’, ‘Crystal Mountain’, ‘The Philosopher’ and ‘Scavenger Of Human Sorrow’. All songs were transcribed by Guitar World’s ace transcription team and are note-for-note accurate. The book also features the complete life and times of Chuck Schuldiner, including interview with those who knew him best.