Jamey Jasta: Reinventing Hardcore & Heavy Metal

When Jamey Jasta (born James Shanahan; August 7, 1977) was 14 years old, he decided to release his demons in a therapeutic and chaotic way as the singer of a band appropriately called JASTA 14. From the moment the band started performing at small Hardcore shows in Connecticut, it became evident that Jasta was meant to be the front-man of a touring Hardcore band. After carefully analyzing how the crowd reacted to his vocals, lyrics and stage presence, Jamey dropped out of school, gripped the microphone tightly and decided to give his best shot at becoming a professional musician. Today, he is the front-man of Hatebreed, which is unquestionably the biggest Hardcore band in history.

How did Jamey Jasta reinvent Hardcore and Heavy Metal? Well, never before had a Hardcore band performed at arenas all over the world and managed to earn the respect of millions of Heavy Metal fans. Hatebreed have managed to become the first Hardcore band in history to accomplish massive global popularity thanks to their passionate uplifting beatdown music, which proved that there is a very fine line between Hardcore and Heavy Metal. Hatebreed is also one of the only bands to not have been booed off stage by Slayer fans, when touring numerous times with the Thrash Metal titans.

Thanks to Jamey's hard work as leader of Hatebreed and being a master at promoting the band, Hatebreed has managed to sell over 1 million records combined. Additionally, not only is Jasta a very charismatic and honest dude, but he is also a very hard working man. When he is not touring the world with Hatebreed, he is busy with his various side projects. His side projects include: Kingdom of Sorrow (who will be part of these years Rockstar Mayhem Festival), Jasta (his new solo project due this summer), Hatewear Inc. (Clothing line), and Stillborn Records (record label). Jamey has also done guest vocals on various records and has also produced various albums. Lets not forget that he hosted MTV's Headbangers Ball!

Jasta is living proof that if you do everything in your power to accomplish your personal goals, you can live your own dream. Here is an EXCLUSIVE "Black Carpet" interview we did with Jasta at the 2011 Revolver Golden Gods Awards, joining us in mid interview is none-other then Shawn Crahan # 6 (Clown from Slipknot) who discusses how Jamey Jasta reinvented Hardcore and Heavy Metal. \m/



We want to thank Hatebreed, Jamey Jasta, Revolver Magazine, Bill Meis at EONE Music & all the fans! This piece is dedicated to PAUL GRAY (RIP)! \m/

Related links:
Jasta Official
Hatebreed Official
Kingdom Of Sorrow Official
EONE Music

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Jamey JASTA to release NEW album this Summer

Heavy Music icon and enterpreneur Jamey Jasta, is known for being a very dedicated man when it comes to spreading his craft all over the world. Even though he has been very busy with Hatebreed, and is preparing for touring with Kingdom Of Sorrow this summer at the Rockstar Mayem Fest, he still managed to create a new solo project titled "Jasta".

The birth of "Jasta" is a result of Jamey having so much music to share, that he decided to produce another project. Some may ask why the hell is he starting another project? Well, Jasta felt that with so many songs that he has created throughout the years that didn't make it into either Hatebreed or Kingdom of Sorrow, that it would dope for the fans to get some new material this summer. Jasta's new project will be released this summer via EONE Music and it will feature a bunch of special guests.

Here is the OFFICIAL video statement by Jamey Jasta:



Photo credit: Jana Blomqvist of Music Photocalypse

Related links:
Jasta Official
Hatebreed Official
Kingdom Of Sorrow Official
EONE Music

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Riffing It Up with Kirk Windstein

Kirk Windstein is synonymous to crushing riffs that seek vulnerable ears and destroy them without mercy. His guitar tone is recognizable by millions of Heavy Music fans worldwide, and as result imitated by almost every band out there. Many can try to sound like Kirk, but there is only one man that can handle being in three successful bands, being a father, and a soon to be husband.

After being an active musician for almost 25 years, you would think that Kirk is ready to slow down and lay back. The truth of the matter is that when it comes to the circle of hard-hitting musicians that come from New Orleans, they play music from the heart and not even a devastating hurricane can stop them from spreading their music like a wild fire.

Taking it easy has never been part of Kirk’s ritual; the man is by far one of the hardest working musicians in Heavy Music today. Not only does he lead Crowbar, but he is also a vital part of the mighty Down and Jamey Jasta’s right hand man in Kingdom Of Sorrow. He is also working on a solo record that he hopes to release sometime this year (more details in the video interview).

During Crowbar’s recent stop in New York City for the Metalliance Tour, we sat down to chat with Kirk about life on the road, his music and how after 25 years he decided to leave his boozing years behind in order to focus on his family. This exclusive interview took place in side Irving Plaza as the fans were arriving to catch one of the best tours of the year.


Before we get into the interview, here are some facts about Kirk Windstein:

- Kirk was born in Middlesex, England on April 14, 1965.

- His career started in 1987 when he joined a band called Victorian Blitz as guitarist. The band was a Judas Priest and Iron Maiden cover band.

- Today he sings and plays guitar in Crowbar, Down, and Kingdom of Sorrow.

DISCOGRAPHY:


- Obedience Thru Suffering: released on September 26, 1991
- Crowbar: released on October 12, 1993
- Live +1 (EP): released on March 29,1994
- Time Heals Nothing: released on May 23, 1995
- Broken Glass: released on October 29, 1996
- Odd Fellows Rest: released on July 7, 1998
- Equilibrium: released on March 7, 2000
- Sonic Excess in its Purest Form: released on August 8, 2001
- Lifesblood for the Downtrodden: released on February 9, 2005
- Sever the Wicked Hand: released on February 2011


- NOLA: released on September 19,1995
- Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow : March 26, 2002
- Down III: Over the Under: September 25, 2007
- Down IV: TBD


- Kingdom of Sorrow: February 19, 2008
- Behind the Blackest Tears: June 8, 2010

Without further due, here is the exclusive interview we did with riff master Kirk Windstein, in which he discusses life as a touring musician, his future musical plans and how he was able to get his life back on track.



We want to thank Kirk, Bill Meis at EOne Music and Steve Seabury!

Photo credit: Bards Eye Photography

Related links:
Crowbar
E1 Music
Down
Kingdom of Sorrow

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Liquid Metal Kidnaps Kirk Windstein

Liquid Metal decided it was time to kidnap Kirk Windstein (Crowbar, Down, Kingdom Of Sorrow) and the only way that they will let him go is if he annihilates the satellites with some hard hitting powerful music.

Here is the OFFICIAL press release:

"Sludge Metal lord Kirk Windstein joins Liquid Metal host Jose Mangin inside the Sirius XM headquarters for an hour special surrounding the latest release from CROWBAR called Sever The Wicked Hand (out now through E-One Records). You’ll hear Kirk discuss the new album, their current stint on the Metalliance Tour (featuring Saint Vitus & Helmet), his upcoming summer plans with Kingdom Of Sorrow on the Mayhem Festival, the update on the recording of the new Down, and how life as a father has grounded the 20 year plus Metal veteran and made him see things in a new light. Tune in not only for the exclusive content but also for hard hitting numbers from all his bands, plus some of his favorite cuts from Pantera & Black Sabbath!"

Here are all the details:

- Where? Liquid Metal (Sirius 27/XM 42)

- Who? In-Studio guest: Kirk Windstein

- When? Thursday, March 31 @ 8 PM Eastern

Repeat broadcasts:

- Friday, April 1 @ 5 PM Eastern
- Saturday, April 2 @ 12 PM Eastern
- Sunday, April 3 @ 3 PM Eastern



Photo credit: Bards Eye Photography

Related links:
Crowbar
E1 Music
Down
Kingdom of Sorrow
Sirius XM Liquid Metal

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Jamey Jasta Liquid Metal Hostile Takeover

If there is a man that has single handily strengthen the Heavy Music scene by going above and beyond to make sure he leaves a worldwide mark, that man is Jamey Jasta (born James Shanahan; August 7, 1977). Not only is he the frontman of Hatebreed, Kingdom Of Sorrow and Icepick, but he is also an excellent role model to all his fans. Ever since he started screaming his lungs out when he was only 13 years old, Jasta has taken his musical career (on and off stage) to a new level of confidence and power!

Today he fronts three bands, he owns his own record label and clothing line, he also produces albums, and most importantly, he is a great father. Anyone who has met Jasta knows that he doesn't take anything from granted, which is why he works day in and day out in perfecting his craft.

Our good friends from Sirius XM Liquid Metal, have invited Jamey Jasta to takeover the satellites and tell you about his past, present and future! Here are all the details:

- When? This Thursday, March 24 @ 3 PM Eastern

Repeat broadcasts:
Friday, 3/25 @ 12pm ET
Saturday, 3/26 @ 4pm ET
Sunday, 3/27 @ 10pm ET

- Where? Sirius XM Liquid Metal: Sirius 27/XM 42

- OFFICIAL press release:

"Metal icon, scene leader, and frontman for Hatebreed & Kingdom Of Sorrow Jamey Jasta, drops by his favorite Metal destination to hang with Sirius XM Liquid Metal host Scotty to give his fans exclusive insight into the hectic life of one of the busiest dudes in Heavy Music.

Jamey talks about his forthcoming solo project, book deal, the Revolver Golden Gods Awards 3, how Mike Vallely needs to win “Most Metal Athlete” at the Golden Gods, Kingdom Of Sorrow run on this summer’s Mayhem Festival, Hatebreed’s future, Hatewear Inc update, and Jamey’s involvement in charity races.

This hour special will be backed by crushing tunes from Hatebreed, Kingdom Of Sorrow, Agnostic Front, Asesino, Sick Of It All, Metallica, Crowbar, Machine Head, Corrision of Conformity and more."





Make sure you tune in! \m/

Related links:
Jamey Jasta
Hatebreed
Kingdom Of Sorrow
Icepick
Hatewear Inc
Stillborn Records
Sirius XM Liquid Metal

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Crowbar: Sever the Wicked Hand Review

When we went to the Crowbar listening party at Idle Hands Bar in New York City, even though it was hard to focus on the music with all the debauchery that took place, we still had a really good feeling about the new Crowbar: "Sever the Wicked Hand". Once we actually sat down and consumed ourselves with Crowbar's ninth studio album, our emotions felt compelled to the sounds created by Crowbar and our ears were asking for more volume!

When it comes to fitting in crushing riffs in harmony with dirty vocals, grooving drums, and hard hitting bass, Kirk Windstein has the perfect formula. From the first note on the opening track "Isolation (Desperation)" you know its a Crowbar record, but the band still managed to not sound outdated. You know how many bands have a signature sound, and when you hear new material it sounds expired? Well, Crowbar managed to keep their signature sound intact and fresh. This ladies and gentleman is really hard to do.

One move that has proven to be lethal in Crowbar's evolution, is Kirk's work with Down and Kingdom Of Sorrow. While Kirk always brings in his unique sound, the fact that he is working with different musicians and within different styles, benefits what he creates with his big baby called Crowbar!

While we could give you a track by track summary, and tell you which tracks stand out in our opinion, we rather give you the chance to listen to the record with your own ears.

Check out the exclusive AOL Listening Party for Crowbar's "Sever the Wicked hand"!

Here is the track listing of Crowbar's "Sever the Wicked Hand":

1. Isolation (Desperation)
02. Sever The Wicked Hand
03. Liquid Sky And Cold Black Earth
04. Let Me Mourn
05. The Cemetery Angels
06. As I Become One
07. A Farewell to Misery
08. Protectors Of The Shrine
09. I Only Deal In Truth
10. Echo An Eternity
11. Cleanse Me, Heal Me
12. Symbiosis

Make sure to catch the mighty Crowbar on stage:

3/17 - Dallas, TX - Southside Music Hall
3/18 - Austin, TX - Dirty Dog/SXSW
3/19 - New Orleans, LA - One Eyed Jacks
3/20 - St Petersburg, FL - State Theater
3/21 - Orlando, FL Firestone Live
3/22 - Greensboro, NC - Greene Street
3/23 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx
3/24 - Worcester, MA - Palladium
3/25 - New York, NY - Irving Plaza
3/26 - Cleveland, OH - Peabody's
3/27 - Joliet, IL - Mojoe's
3/29 - Denver, CO - The Summit
3/31 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
4/01 - Seattle, WA - El Corazon
4/03 - San Francisco, CA - Mezzanine
4/05 - Hollywood, CA - House Of Blues

Here is Crowbar's NEWEST video for the song "The Cemetery Angels", a song from "Sever the Wicked Hand."


As seen on Crowbar's Official Site, here is the interview we did with Kirk Windstein.


Related links:
Crowbar's Official Site
Crowbar on E1 Music

IMPRINTED by Jo Schüftan (Founder of Horns Up Rocks)

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CROWBAR: OFFICIAL listening party

Crowbar has represented Heavy Music since 1989, and they have never released an album that sucks. Simply because Crowbar's front-man Kirk Windstein has always written music from the soul, packed with monstrous riffs. In our opinion, Kirk's guitar tone defines what a Heavy Metal guitar should sound like!

This Friday night come to Idle Hands Bar and get Crowbent at the official listening party for Crowbar's upcoming release: "Sever The Wicked Hand" (in stores February 8, 2011).

Here are all the details:
WHAT: Crowbar "Sever The Wicked Hand" official listening party
WHEN: January 7th, 2011 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm
WHERE: Idle Hands Bar: 25 Avenue B (Downstairs), New York, New York 10009

In case you missed this, here is an exclusive interview we did with Kirk Windstein right after Crowbar's show here in New York City!



Related links:
Crowbar's Official Site
Idle Hands Bar

IMPRINTED by Jo Schüftan (Founder of Horns Up Rocks)

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Kirk Windstein (Crowbar, Down, Kingdom of Sorrow) is one of the godfathers of the New Orleans Heavy Music scene, and since the inception of Crowbar in 1989 he’s kept his craft intact. Kirk has been a fundamental asset to the ever changing New Orleans Heavy Music scene, which has brought us bands like Crowbar, Down, Acid Bath, Goatwhore, Eyehategod, Soilent Green, and many others.

What sets the NOLA scene apart from other scenes in the country is that the scene was not created around a particular genre; it was created around the musical paradise that is only present in New Orleans, Louisiana: a city that gave birth to Jazz, Sludge Metal and to the New Orleans Saints (current Superbowl champions).

Sludge Metal became an important genre, thanks to musicians like Philip Anselmo (Pantera, Down) Pepper Keenan (COC, Down), Jimmy Bower (Eyehategod, Down), Ben Falgoust (Goatwhore, Soilent Green), and Mike Williams (Eyehategod), who’s goal was to create a musical movement in which everyone unites and challenges each other’s creativity. This movement has lead into a very unique sound, which Windstein has helped to create and establish.

It is evident from the moment Kirk steps on any stage, that everyone loves the “old man” (as Jamey Jasta from Hatebreed calls him). One of the elements that has made Kirk loved by millions of fans worldwide, is the passion and soul he delivers through his music. Whither it’s Crowbar, Down, or Kingdom of Sorrow, Kirk is always the same humble guy who found music as a creative and therapeutic outlet.


Last weekend Kirk brought his “baby” Crowbar to New York City’s Santos Party House, and made it an unforgettable night of Heavy southern Sludge Metal! Crowbar has never disappointed, and wherever they go they make sure everyone leaves with a wide smile. What impacted us the most about Crowbar is how fans of different musical styles always unite at their shows, groove their bodies uncontrollably, and got their soul Crowbent.

What’s in the agenda for Kirk Windstein in 2011?

- New Crowbar record (February 8th through E1 Music).
- US tour in March with Crowbar.
- Recording of the new Down record in the summer.
- Touring with Kingdom of Sorrow in the summer.

We are pretty sure that what you really want to do right now, is watch our EXCLUSIVE interview with Kirk Windstein inside Santos Party House, right after Crowbar's New York City takeover. \m/









Related links:
Crowbar
E1 Music
Down
Kingdom of Sorrow

IMPRINTED by Jo Schüftan (Founder of Horns Up Rocks)

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Kingdom of Sorrow: "Behind The Blackest Tears"

When Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed) and Kirk Windstein (Crowbar and Down), join forces to write music. The results are not for the weak hearted! I remember when Jamey announced during the 2007 Stillborn Fest that him and Windstein were working on a new project, the crowd went wild. Here we are 3 years later and Kingdom of Sorrow have already released 2 amazing albums.

In my opinion, Jasta and Windstein create a unique blend of Hard Core mixed with sludgy Southern Metal. On their newest musical creation, Kingdom of Sorrow kept the fury of their first self titled album and added more riffs, better lyrics and thanks to a well crafted plan, they managed to release an even better album.

"Behind The Blackest Tears" (released through Relapse Records) contains 12 crushing songs that as soon as you start cranking them through your ear buds, you will find yourself submerged in a very unique sonic experience. Jasta pushed his vocals to another level, by adding his famous scream with perfect harmonies and both him and Windstein released the devil with some crushing riffs. Support the underground scene and pick up this record online or at your nearest record store.

1 - Enlightened to Extinction
2- God's Law in the Devil's Land
3- Monuments of Ash
4- Behind the Blackest Tears
5- Envision the Divide
6- From Heroes To Dust
7 - Along The Path To Ruin
8 - With Barely A Breath
9 - The Death We Owe
10 - Sleeping Beast
11 - Torchlight Procession
12- Salvation Denied

Special Edition Bonus Tracks:
- Soldiers of Hell - (Running Wild cover)
- No Class - (Motörhead cover)

Related links:
KINGDOM OF SORROW

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BRAND NEW Kingdom of Sorrow song!

Kingdom of Sorrow is the merger of two amazing musicians: Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed) & Kirk Windstein (Crowbar, Down). Their new album titled "Behind the Blackest Tears" is set to be released on June 8th through Relapse Records and it is heavier than steel!

Here is their first single titled "God's Law In The Devil's Land"!

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