Testament (USA)

[Horex]

Testament - Original Album Series (5CD) (2013)













Year : 2013
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 133 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

The Original Album Series box set is a bare-bones collection of the first five Testament albums – 1987’s The Legacy, 1988’s The New Order, 1989’s Practice What You Preach, 1990’s Souls of Black and 1992’s The Ritual. The discs have been repressed (i.e. the faces look different from the original releases), but have not been remastered. Nor do they contain any bonus material. Each disc comes in a thin cardboard sleeve, and all five are stored in an even thinner cardboard box that’s not much bigger on the shelf than the average CD jewel case.While this set may be a disappointment to collectors, the Original Album Series is a fantastic set for those who either never got these discs the first time around, or who only have one or two and are looking to complete a collection. Say what you will about the sound quality or packaging; it’s hard to beat getting five classic Bay Area thrash albums for roughly twenty bucks. If nothing else, this is the perfect introduction to Testament.

Line-Up:

Eric Peterson – rhythm guitar, lead guitar, backing vocals (1983–present)
Alex Skolnick – lead guitar, rhythm guitar, backing vocals (1983–1993, 2001, 2005–present)
Chuck Billy – vocals (1986–present)
Gene Hoglan – drums (1997, 2011–present)
Steve DiGiorgio – bass (1998–2004, 2014–present)

Former members:

Mike "The Rottweiler" Ronchette – drums (1983)
Derrick Ramirez – vocals (1983), bass (1997)
Steve Souza – vocals (1983–1986)
Louie Clemente – drums (1983–1993, 2005)
Greg Christian – bass (1983–1996, 2004–2014)
Glen Alvelais – guitars (1993, 1997–1998)
Paul Bostaph – drums (1993, 2007–2011)
John Tempesta – drums (1993–1994, 2001, 2005, 2011)
Jon Dette – drums (1994–1995, 1997–1998, 1999)
James Murphy – guitars (1994–1996, 1998–2000)
Chris Kontos – drums (1995–1996)
Dave Lombardo – drums (1998–1999)
Jon Allen – drums (1999–2004, 2007, 2011)
Mike Chlasciak – guitars (2002, 2004–2005)

Tracklist:

CD 1: The Legacy (1987)

01. Over The Wall
02. The Haunting
03. Burnt Offerings
04. Raging Waters
05. C.O.T.L.O.D.
06. First Strike Is Deadly
07. Do Or Die
08. Alone In The Dark
09. Apocalyptic City

CD 2: The New Order (1988)

01. Eerie Inhabitants
02. The New Order
03. Trial By Fire
04. Into The Pit
05. Hypnosis
06. Disciples Of The Watch
07. The Preacher
08. Nobody's Fault
09. A Day Of Reckoning
10. Musical Death (A Dirge)

CD 3: Practice What You Preach (1989)

01. Practice What You Preach
02. Perilous Nation
03. Envy Life
04. Time Is Coming
05. Blessed In Contempt
06. Greenhouse Effect
07. Sins Of Omission
08. The Ballad
09. Nightmare (Coming Back To You)
10. Confusion Fusion (Instrumental)

CD 4: Souls Of Black (1990)

01. Beginning Of The End
02. Face In The Sky
03. Falling Fast
04. Souls Of Black
05. Absence Of Light
06. Love To Hate
07. Malpractice
08. One Man's Fate
09. The Legacy
10. Seven Days Of May

CD 5: The Ritual (1992)

01. Signs Of Chaos (Intro) (Instrumental)
02. Electric Crown
03. So Many Lies
04. Let Go Of My World
05. The Ritual
06. Deadline
07. As The Seasons Grey
08. Agony
09. The Sermon
10. Return To Serenity
11. Troubled Dreams




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

Testament - Dark Roots Of Thrash (2CD) (2013)













Year : 2013
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : USA
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 235 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

1983 was a huge year for Metal, METALLICA released their debut "KIll 'Em All", MERCYFUL FATE released their debut "Melissa", and California gave birth to yet another soon to be Thrash legend TESTAMENT (at the time known as LEGACY). The band released their debut "The Legacy" back in 1987, and here we are, 30 years after their formation and 10 studio albums later, the band are being praised for their recent releases more than any that came before, and why not? TESTAMENT is a proven Thrash Metal beast. After the release of their latest studio album "The Dark Roots of Earth" last year, the band is back with a DVD/2 CD live album.I should mention out front, this review is only of the audio portion of the release, not the DVD. It's obvious from the very first listen that there's a very good reason why the band’s latest releases have been so well received, 30 years into their career Chuck Billy and the boys seem as fresh as ever. The release features a fantastic mix taking material from much of their career starting from their debut album (“Over the Wall”) and to their latest release (“Rise Up”). "More than Meets the Eye" gets a tremendous rendition. "Burnt Offerings" is a personal favorite and "The New Order" sounds as awesome as ever. I've unfortunately never had the chance to see the band live, but if this is any indication of what it feels like I'll be jumping at the first chance I get. If you wanna get your hands on some old school thrash combined with a fantastic live experience without leaving your house, this is the album for you.Too bad nothing from "Demonic" is featured, but that's a minor issue (since I’m one of the few who actually liked it, probably cause it was the first I’ve ever heard), all in all, a great live album from a fantastic band.

Line-Up:

Chuck Billy - Vocals (1986-present) - See also: Dublin Death Patrol, ex-Legacy, ex-Guilt, ex-Rampage
Greg Christian - Bass (1986-1996, 2004-present) - See also: ex-Legacy, ex-HavocHate
Alex Skolnick - Guitars (1986-1993, 2001, 2005-present) - See also: ex-Legacy, The Skolnick Trio, ex-Trans-Siberian Orchestra, ex-Anthrax (live), ex-Ozzy Osbourne (live), ex-Savatage, ex-Attention Deficit
Eric Peterson - Guitars (1986-present) - See also: Dragonlord, ex-Legacy, ex-Anthrax (live)
Gene Hoglan – Drums

Tracklist:

CD1:

01. Intro 02:38
02. Rise Up 04:18
03. More Than Meets The Eye 04:25
04. Burnt Offerings 06:36
05. Native Blood 05:14
06. True American Hate 06:22
07. Dark Roots Of Earth 05:41
08. Into The Pit 03:25
09. Practice What You Preach 05:23

CD2:

01. Riding The Snake 04:28
02. Eyes Of Wrath 05:49
03. Trial By Fire 04:40
04. The Haunting 04:45
05. New Order 05:04
06. DNR 04:23
07. Three Days In Darkness 07:13
08. Formation Of Damnation 06:47
09. Over The Wall 04:47
10. Disciples Of The Watch 07:29




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

Testament - Brotherhood Of The Snake (Limited Edition Digibook) (2016)













Year : 2016 (Limited Edition Digibook)
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 110 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

Brotherhood of the Snake is the upcoming eleventh studio album by American thrash metal band Testament, tentatively due for release on October 28, 2016. It will be the band's first studio recording with bassist Steve DiGiorgio since First Strike Still Deadly (2001). Brotherhood of the Snake will also mark Testament's fifth collaboration with Andy Sneap, who had mixed and engineered all of their albums since The Gathering (1999) and produced Dark Roots of Earth (2012).The cover was once again created by renowned artist Eliran Kantor, who also handled the art for the TESTAMENT's last album, 2012's "Dark Roots Of Earth", and also worked with bands like HATEBREED, SOULFLY and KATAKLYSM in the past."Brotherhood Of The Snake" was recorded under the watchful eyes of producer Juan Urteaga (EXODUS, HEATHEN, MACHINE HEAD), guitarist Eric Peterson and singer Chuck Billy and was mixed and mastered by British mtal producer Andy Sneap (ACCEPT, ARCH ENEMY, CRADLE OF FILTH, KREATOR, MACHINE HEAD, MEGADETH).Regarding the lyrical themes covered on "Brotherhood Of The Snake", Chuck told Metal Wani: "Well, it's kind of like a concept record. I know, going into it, the past records, I was writing songs that were more personal and there were topics that were kind of real — losing a family member or anything that's real; that's what we were kind of writing. And Eric really wanted to kind of get back to, 'Let's write some cool stories and cool words and cool lyrics.' And so I was, like, 'Okay, that's cool.' And then, I kind of, at the time, was watching a TV series; it was a show called 'Ancient Aliens' that was on once a week. And it showed a lot of the connection between aliens and religion. And it kind of got my attention, because there was different religions all around the world, different spots in the world, where there was always the same alien being with big heads and strange bodies and flying objects in the sky. And it kind of made me realize, wow, how, that many thousands of years ago, did they communicate and see these same things unless it was real, unless there's something about it. So it really made me think, maybe there is something to these aliens and our existence and religion and everything. And then I stumbled on to the 'brotherhood of the snake' and the story of that. And that was about a secret society over six thousand years ago that were out on a crusade just to dig down religions. And there was an alien king, Anu, who basically created mankind as a slave for them to mine the minerals and gold from our planet earth. So it was kind of, like, 'Wow!' From an 'Ancient Aliens' show to this… There's something there that we can kind of run on and get the lyrics going and tell the storyline about. So that kind of got the ball rolling."Peterson told Kaaos TV about "Brotherhood Of The Snake": "The only difference on this one is we're trying to be a little bit more organic, and getting away from Andy's perfection sound, and get more of a looser… you know, still keeping the slickness of it, but trying to get a little bit more raw. So it's kind of a hard way to describe it. But we don't want it too perfect. And I didn't record four guitars; I did two this time. So there's a lot more air going on with the rhythms and stuff like that."Asked whether the musical direction of TESTAMENT's new material is a throwback to the band's early albums or if it's more similar to the recent TESTAMENT records, Eric said: "More like the modern [TESTAMENT sound], but, you know, like I was saying earlier, having that more raw feeling. Of course, our influences have changed a lot. For me, I always get accused of listening to older stuff [and I am told that] I need to listen to more new stuff. But I always like to go back and listen to records from the '70s and the '80s. And I won't name the bands I listen to, but I listen to a lot of different stuff that has nothing to do with metal, because I hear things differently. I don't hear it, like… You know, like if I listen to [American blues rock guitarist] Joe Bonamassa or something, I'm not, like, 'Wow, I wanna sound like that.' I just kind of get ideas of key changes and the way he hits certain notes or whatever and apply it to what we're doing. And that's the same thing with anything."TESTAMENT will promote "Brotherhood Of The Snake" by teaming up with AMON AMARTH for a European tour this fall.

Line-Up:

Eric Peterson – rhythm guitar, lead guitar, backing vocals (1983–present)
Alex Skolnick – lead guitar, rhythm guitar, backing vocals (1983–1993, 2001, 2005–present)
Chuck Billy – vocals (1986–present)
Gene Hoglan – drums (1997, 2011–present)
Steve DiGiorgio – bass (1998–2004, 2014–present)

Former members:

Mike "The Rottweiler" Ronchette – drums (1983)
Derrick Ramirez – vocals (1983), bass (1997)
Steve Souza – vocals (1983–1986)
Louie Clemente – drums (1983–1993, 2005)
Greg Christian – bass (1983–1996, 2004–2014)
Glen Alvelais – guitars (1993, 1997–1998)
Paul Bostaph – drums (1993, 2007–2011)
John Tempesta – drums (1993–1994, 2001, 2005, 2011)
Jon Dette – drums (1994–1995, 1997–1998, 1999)
James Murphy – guitars (1994–1996, 1998–2000)
Chris Kontos – drums (1995–1996)
Dave Lombardo – drums (1998–1999)
Jon Allen – drums (1999–2004, 2007, 2011)
Mike Chlasciak – guitars (2002, 2004–2005)

Tracklist:

01. Brotherhood of the Snake 04:14
02. The Pale King 04:51
03. Stronghold 04:00
04. Seven Seals 05:38
05. Born in a Rut 04:57
06. Centuries of Suffering 03:34
07. Neptune's Spear 05:27
08. Black Jack 04:21
09. Canna-Business 03:47
10. The Number Game




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

Testament - Brotherhood Of The Snake (Japan Edition) (2016)













Year : 2016 (Limited Edition Digibook)
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 173 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

Brotherhood of the Snake is the upcoming eleventh studio album by American thrash metal band Testament, tentatively due for release on October 28, 2016. It will be the band's first studio recording with bassist Steve DiGiorgio since First Strike Still Deadly (2001). Brotherhood of the Snake will also mark Testament's fifth collaboration with Andy Sneap, who had mixed and engineered all of their albums since The Gathering (1999) and produced Dark Roots of Earth (2012).The cover was once again created by renowned artist Eliran Kantor, who also handled the art for the TESTAMENT's last album, 2012's "Dark Roots Of Earth", and also worked with bands like HATEBREED, SOULFLY and KATAKLYSM in the past."Brotherhood Of The Snake" was recorded under the watchful eyes of producer Juan Urteaga (EXODUS, HEATHEN, MACHINE HEAD), guitarist Eric Peterson and singer Chuck Billy and was mixed and mastered by British mtal producer Andy Sneap (ACCEPT, ARCH ENEMY, CRADLE OF FILTH, KREATOR, MACHINE HEAD, MEGADETH).Regarding the lyrical themes covered on "Brotherhood Of The Snake", Chuck told Metal Wani: "Well, it's kind of like a concept record. I know, going into it, the past records, I was writing songs that were more personal and there were topics that were kind of real — losing a family member or anything that's real; that's what we were kind of writing. And Eric really wanted to kind of get back to, 'Let's write some cool stories and cool words and cool lyrics.' And so I was, like, 'Okay, that's cool.' And then, I kind of, at the time, was watching a TV series; it was a show called 'Ancient Aliens' that was on once a week. And it showed a lot of the connection between aliens and religion. And it kind of got my attention, because there was different religions all around the world, different spots in the world, where there was always the same alien being with big heads and strange bodies and flying objects in the sky. And it kind of made me realize, wow, how, that many thousands of years ago, did they communicate and see these same things unless it was real, unless there's something about it. So it really made me think, maybe there is something to these aliens and our existence and religion and everything. And then I stumbled on to the 'brotherhood of the snake' and the story of that. And that was about a secret society over six thousand years ago that were out on a crusade just to dig down religions. And there was an alien king, Anu, who basically created mankind as a slave for them to mine the minerals and gold from our planet earth. So it was kind of, like, 'Wow!' From an 'Ancient Aliens' show to this… There's something there that we can kind of run on and get the lyrics going and tell the storyline about. So that kind of got the ball rolling."Peterson told Kaaos TV about "Brotherhood Of The Snake": "The only difference on this one is we're trying to be a little bit more organic, and getting away from Andy's perfection sound, and get more of a looser… you know, still keeping the slickness of it, but trying to get a little bit more raw. So it's kind of a hard way to describe it. But we don't want it too perfect. And I didn't record four guitars; I did two this time. So there's a lot more air going on with the rhythms and stuff like that."Asked whether the musical direction of TESTAMENT's new material is a throwback to the band's early albums or if it's more similar to the recent TESTAMENT records, Eric said: "More like the modern [TESTAMENT sound], but, you know, like I was saying earlier, having that more raw feeling. Of course, our influences have changed a lot. For me, I always get accused of listening to older stuff [and I am told that] I need to listen to more new stuff. But I always like to go back and listen to records from the '70s and the '80s. And I won't name the bands I listen to, but I listen to a lot of different stuff that has nothing to do with metal, because I hear things differently. I don't hear it, like… You know, like if I listen to [American blues rock guitarist] Joe Bonamassa or something, I'm not, like, 'Wow, I wanna sound like that.' I just kind of get ideas of key changes and the way he hits certain notes or whatever and apply it to what we're doing. And that's the same thing with anything."TESTAMENT will promote "Brotherhood Of The Snake" by teaming up with AMON AMARTH for a European tour this fall.

Line-Up:

Eric Peterson – rhythm guitar, lead guitar, backing vocals (1983–present)
Alex Skolnick – lead guitar, rhythm guitar, backing vocals (1983–1993, 2001, 2005–present)
Chuck Billy – vocals (1986–present)
Gene Hoglan – drums (1997, 2011–present)
Steve DiGiorgio – bass (1998–2004, 2014–present)

Former members:

Mike "The Rottweiler" Ronchette – drums (1983)
Derrick Ramirez – vocals (1983), bass (1997)
Steve Souza – vocals (1983–1986)
Louie Clemente – drums (1983–1993, 2005)
Greg Christian – bass (1983–1996, 2004–2014)
Glen Alvelais – guitars (1993, 1997–1998)
Paul Bostaph – drums (1993, 2007–2011)
John Tempesta – drums (1993–1994, 2001, 2005, 2011)
Jon Dette – drums (1994–1995, 1997–1998, 1999)
James Murphy – guitars (1994–1996, 1998–2000)
Chris Kontos – drums (1995–1996)
Dave Lombardo – drums (1998–1999)
Jon Allen – drums (1999–2004, 2007, 2011)
Mike Chlasciak – guitars (2002, 2004–2005)

Tracklist:

01. Brotherhood of the Snake 04:14
02. The Pale King 04:51
03. Stronghold 04:00
04. Seven Seals 05:38
05. Born in a Rut 04:57
06. Centuries of Suffering 03:34
07. Neptune's Spear 05:27
08. Black Jack 04:21
09. Canna-Business 03:47
10. The Number Game
11. Apocalyptic City (Re-Recorded Version) (Bonus Track)
12. Brotherhood of the Snake (Alternative Mix) (Bonus Track)

+ Video "The Pale King" (Official Video)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

Testament - Titans Of Creation (Digipak Edition) (2020)













Year : 2020
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 133 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

Bay Area thrash legends Testament are back with another album “Titans Of Creation” and it’s further proof the band are still putting out some quality music, over 3 decades in. With 2 singles making their rounds ahead of the release, we took a look at the rest of the album on offer before it’s finally unleashed to the world.It’s been a relatively short 4 years since Testament’s previous album “Brotherhood of the Snake” spit it’s venomous songs to the legions of fans who have been enjoying the consistency this band has been putting out over the years. “Titans Of Creation” continues that tradition in brilliant style, marking this possibly an even stronger set of songs.The two singles out, “Night Of The Witch” and “Children Of The Next Level” are good representations of the album. The first single “Night Of The Witch” is one of the heaviest tracks on the album and features guitarist Eric Peterson providing some background vocals that showcases his side of the more extremes of metal. Frontman Chuck Billy recently told us in our interview regarding that song that “I thought it would be interesting when we picked it that it might show another side of Testament because in that song Eric gets to sing the choruses and it’s definitely a different voice than mine but it added just another dimension and texture to the song”. That it certainly does.The second single “Children Of The Next Level” which references the Heavens Gate cult features galloping riffs synchronised perfectly with the grooves of the Atomic Clock himself, drummer Gene Hoglan whose kick pedal patterns just fit the song brilliantly. It’s also a very strong opener, going straight into business before leading the listener into an array of nothing but pure metal.Vintage signature Testament is abundant on “Titans Of Creation” but still sounding modern and fresh at the same time. With lush production and a blend of grooves and speedy tempos, Testament really have found the right mixture that was evident of their directions on albums such as “The Gathering” and “The Formation Of Damnation”. “WWIII” is old school thrash with a massive breakdown splitting the song before leading to further galloping riffs driven sections. “Dream Deceiver” continues the formula with anthemic choruses that is sure to get crowds singing in between the moshing. “False Prophet” is a real highlight though, ferocious grooves and high amounts of energy dripping from the perfect rhythm is just sheer perfection and a good enough reason alone to check out this album.For the more adventurous, “Ishtar’s Gate” provides a middle eastern sound in a more heavy rock induced affair with Alex Skolnick truly shining with his blistering solo work while “Code Of Hammurabi” sees the band really click together like never before in this almost prog-like song kicked off by Steve Di Giorgio’s bass licks. Each member, not just on this song but really on every track on here just seem to be completely on the same page with everything with Chuck’s vocals as strong as ever and Eric’s riffs just pouring out like never before.Then you get songs like “Curse Of Osiris” that just pulvarise you from start to finish just to cement that thought and really close things out with a bang. There may be a lot of old school vibes on this record but it’s also as modern and as brutal as anything out there today. Can a band going into this 3 decades and more still be this good? We think so and “Titans Of Creation” proves it on all fronts and also smashes this blind idea that bands can only produce good albums early in their career.

Line-Up:

Eric Peterson – rhythm guitar, lead guitar, backing vocals (1983–present)
Alex Skolnick – lead guitar, rhythm guitar, backing vocals (1983–1993, 2001, 2005–present)
Chuck Billy – vocals (1986–present)
Gene Hoglan – drums (1997, 2011–present)
Steve DiGiorgio – bass (1998–2004, 2014–present)

Tracklist:

01. Children Of The Next Level
02. WWIII
03. Dream Deceiver
04. Night Of The Witch
05. City Of Angels
06. Ishtar's Gate
07. Symptoms
08. False Prophet
09. The Healers
10. Code Of Hammurabi
11. Curse Of Osiris
12. Catacombs




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[Horex]

Testament - Para Bellum (2025)













Year : 2025
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 120 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

Para Bellum is the upcoming fourteenth studio album by the American thrash metal band Testament, due for release on October 10, 2025, through Nuclear Blast.It will be the band's first studio album with drummer Chris Dovas.Background and production As early as mid-2020, the members of Testament began discussing the possibility of making a fourteenth studio album. About a month after the release of Titans of Creation, frontman Chuck Billy spoke to former Exodus and Legacy frontman Steve "Zetro" Souza on his "Toxic Vault" video channel about the possibility of the band writing a potential follow-up album during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, "We're not writing a record yet. I won't release what we're doing, but we are gonna write some stuff. Just to do something, not a record but maybe something just to have some singles." In a July 2020 interview with Australia's Riff Crew, Billy commented on his take on the possibility of writing another Testament album during the pandemic, saying, "Well, if it is truly, as someone says, a two-year period, of course, we're gonna go write another record, and when it all settles, we'll have two records… And if it had to be that long, then, yeah, we would probably consider just writing another record."Peterson reiterated Billy's comments the following month that the band could work on new material before beginning to tour in support of Titans of Creation.In a March 2021 interview on Alive & Streaming, an internet podcast hosted by Death Angel guitarist Ted Aguilar, Billy confirmed that Peterson had begun writing new material for what could result in the next Testament album.On January 21, 2022, the band and longtime drummer Gene Hoglan announced on their respective social media accounts that he had once again left Testament to pursue "an exciting new chapter of [his] career and free agency, with all that it will entail."On March 1, it was announced that drummer Dave Lombardo had rejoined the band in time for the North American leg of The Bay Strikes Back tour, which became Testament's first major outing with Lombardo, who had left the band before the 1999–2000 tour for The Gathering.The band later discussed the possibility of recording a new album with Lombardo, and Billy stated in September 2022 that the band would likely begin work on it after the conclusion of The Bay Strikes Back tour.He later stated that he hoped they would begin recording their new album towards the end of 2023 for a 2024 release.When asked in a June 2023 during their appearance at Hellfest when the album would be recorded, Peterson said, "Hopefully maybe October, November. If not, probably January, February. But we're shooting for this year — at the end of the year. I think I'll be done writing in September. So we just have to wait for vocals. Which can take a while. But we'll see what happens." It was announced the same month that Testament had renewed their deal with Nuclear Blast for three more albums, and the label had acquired the rights to the band's first six studio albums for future reissues.Work on the new album resumed in July 2023, with Peterson describing its direction as a combination of thrash, NWOBHM, "thrash black [and] heavy hard rock blues", and it was announced nearly two weeks later that the songwriting process of the album had begun.By December 2023, Testament had begun tracking their new album with mastering engineer Justin Shturtz at Sterling Sound in Nashville, but progress was slow, with Di Giorgio confirming in March 2024 that pre-production on the album had begun, and Billy revealing in June that "most of the drums" were recorded.The band members later announced that their new album would not be released until 2025.In April 2023, Lombardo announced that he would not be joining Testament throughout their 2023 tour dates, giving scheduling conflicts as the reason and expressing uncertainty that he would return to the band afterwards.He was officially replaced by former Seven Spires drummer Chris Dovas, who had filled in for Lombardo for a few U.S. dates the previous fall.On August 19, 2025, Testament released the first single titled "Infanticide A.I." from their then-untitled fourteenth album, being streamed exclusively on SiriusXM Liquid Metal with Jose Mangin.Two days later, they revealed Para Bellum as the title of their new album, which will be released on October 10, 2025.

Line-Up:

Chuck Billy - Vocals (1987-present) - See also: Beloved Ghouls, Metal Allegiance (live), Dublin Death Patrol, ex-Legacy, ex-Exodus (live), ex-Torture Squad (live), ex-Guilt, ex-Rampage
Eric Peterson - Guitars (1987-present) - See also: Spin the Wheel, ex-Dragonlord, ex-Legacy, ex-Anthrax (live)
Alex Skolnick - Guitars (1987-1992, 2001, 2005-present) - See also: Metal Allegiance, ex-Legacy, Alex Skolnick Trio, Hu$h Money, PAKT, ex-Savatage, ex-Trans-Siberian Orchestra, ex-Anthrax (live), ex-Ozzy Osbourne (live), ex-Attention Deficit, ex-Exhibit-A, ex-Stu Hamm (live)
Steve DiGiorgio - Bass (1998-2004, 2014-present) - See also: Act of Denial, Charred Walls of the Damned, Geoda, Gone in April, Johnny Newman, Mythodea, Quadvium, Spirits of Fire, Terra Odium, ex-Control Denied, ex-Funeral, ex-Futures End, ex-Synesis Absorption, Bassists Alliance Project, Death to All, Devil's Highway, ex-Anatomy of I, ex-Beltfed Weapon, ex-Itself, ex-Memorain, ex-Sadus, ex-Sebastian Bach, ex-Obituary (live), ex-Obscura (live), ex-Artension, ex-Death, ex-Ephel Duath, ex-Painmuseum, ex-Dragonlord, ex-Faust, ex-Dark Hall, ex-Soen, ex-Suicide Shift
Chris Dovas - Drums (2023-present) - See also: Dovas, Evulsion, FireWing, Vital Remains (live), ex-FirstBourne, ex-Seven Spires, ex-Unflesh, ex-Aversed (live), ex-Rithiya Henry Khiev (live), ex-Sonic Pulse (live)

Tracklist:

01. For the Love of Pain 05:35
02. Infanticide A.I. 03:27
03. Shadow People 05:45
04. Meant to Be 07:33
05. High Noon 03:52
06. Witch Hunt 04:16
07. Nature of the Beast 04:28
08. Room 117 04:18
09. Havana Syndrome 04:40
10. Para Bellum 06:30




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/

[Horex]

Testament - Para Bellum (3CD) (Japan Deluxe Edition) (2025)













Year : 2025 (Japan Deluxe Edition)
Style : Thrash Metal
Country : United States
Audio : 320 kbps + all scans
Size : 329 mb

Bio:

Testament was one of the first thrash metal bands to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's. Originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass). Ramirez was later replaced by wunderkind Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the towering Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' 3 years later, while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York."The Legacy" was a brutal intro in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene. Following "Live At Eindhoven", an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, "The New Order" in 1988 was well received producing one of the band's most memorable classics "Disciples Of The Watch". Next came the highly successful "Practice What You Preach" in 1989, then the release of "Souls Of Black" in 1990, coinciding with the European 'Clash Of The Titans' tour with Slayer, Megadeth and Suicidal Tendencies.After "The Ritual" in 1992, Skolnick, whose musical tastes weren't limited to metal, departed the band and went on to become a respected jazz guitarist. Clemente also departed. "Return To Apocalyptic City" in 1993 brought Glen Alvelais (guitar, ex- Forbidden) into the fold, and filling in temporarily for Clemente, Paul Bostaph (ex- Forbidden, Slayer). James Murphy (ex- Death, Obituary, Disincarnate, Cancer) soon stepped in for Alvelais on lead duties for "Low" in 1994, as John Tempesta (ex- Exodus) took over on the drums. Tempesta later left to join White Zombie, and was replaced by John Dette (ex- Evil Dead ). "Live At The Fillmore" was released in 1995, then Dette left in 1996 to join Slayer. "The Best Of Testament" was released in 1996."Demonic", which was recorded in Testament's Driftwood Studios, was released in 1997. James Murphy and Greg Christian having left the band were replaced by alumni Glen Alvelais and Derrick Ramirez (bass). Gene Hoglan (drums, ex- Death, Dark Angel) lent his percussion talents. "Signs Of Chaos", a 'best of' disc of the band, was released in 1997.Dave Lombardo (ex- Slayer, Grip, Inc.) was officially introduced into the band. James Murphy was brought back once again, and on bass, the legendary Steve DiGiorgio (ex- Death, Control Denied, Sadus). "The Gathering" was born in 1999. James Murphy abruptly departed, which was determined later for reasons due to a serious illness. Steve Smyth (ex-Vicious Rumors) jumped aboard as 'touring guitarist', later to be invited to stay on as a permanent member. Lombardo soon also left, not being able to commit, having other projects on his plate. In 2000, Jon Allen (drums, ex- Sadus) joined the band.After the successful "Riding The Snake" world tour to promote "The Gathering", vocalist Billy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called 'germ cell seminoma' in March 2001. Despite his illness and grueling cancer treatments, Billy offered his ground shaking vocals to the re-recording of Testament classics on "First Strike Still Deadly" with a reunion of sorts, bringing back Alex Skolnick and John Tempesta to record on the disc.Billy has since fully recovered. A busy touring schedule of the U.S. and Europe commenced in late 2002, through the summer of 2003. In 2004, guitarist Steve Smyth left the band to join Nevermore, and "Metal Mike" Chlasciak stepped in.

Album:

Japan deluxe edition with 3CD.Para Bellum is the upcoming fourteenth studio album by the American thrash metal band Testament, due for release on October 10, 2025, through Nuclear Blast.It will be the band's first studio album with drummer Chris Dovas.Background and production As early as mid-2020, the members of Testament began discussing the possibility of making a fourteenth studio album. About a month after the release of Titans of Creation, frontman Chuck Billy spoke to former Exodus and Legacy frontman Steve "Zetro" Souza on his "Toxic Vault" video channel about the possibility of the band writing a potential follow-up album during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, "We're not writing a record yet. I won't release what we're doing, but we are gonna write some stuff. Just to do something, not a record but maybe something just to have some singles." In a July 2020 interview with Australia's Riff Crew, Billy commented on his take on the possibility of writing another Testament album during the pandemic, saying, "Well, if it is truly, as someone says, a two-year period, of course, we're gonna go write another record, and when it all settles, we'll have two records… And if it had to be that long, then, yeah, we would probably consider just writing another record."Peterson reiterated Billy's comments the following month that the band could work on new material before beginning to tour in support of Titans of Creation.In a March 2021 interview on Alive & Streaming, an internet podcast hosted by Death Angel guitarist Ted Aguilar, Billy confirmed that Peterson had begun writing new material for what could result in the next Testament album.On January 21, 2022, the band and longtime drummer Gene Hoglan announced on their respective social media accounts that he had once again left Testament to pursue "an exciting new chapter of [his] career and free agency, with all that it will entail."On March 1, it was announced that drummer Dave Lombardo had rejoined the band in time for the North American leg of The Bay Strikes Back tour, which became Testament's first major outing with Lombardo, who had left the band before the 1999–2000 tour for The Gathering.The band later discussed the possibility of recording a new album with Lombardo, and Billy stated in September 2022 that the band would likely begin work on it after the conclusion of The Bay Strikes Back tour.He later stated that he hoped they would begin recording their new album towards the end of 2023 for a 2024 release.When asked in a June 2023 during their appearance at Hellfest when the album would be recorded, Peterson said, "Hopefully maybe October, November. If not, probably January, February. But we're shooting for this year — at the end of the year. I think I'll be done writing in September. So we just have to wait for vocals. Which can take a while. But we'll see what happens." It was announced the same month that Testament had renewed their deal with Nuclear Blast for three more albums, and the label had acquired the rights to the band's first six studio albums for future reissues.Work on the new album resumed in July 2023, with Peterson describing its direction as a combination of thrash, NWOBHM, "thrash black [and] heavy hard rock blues", and it was announced nearly two weeks later that the songwriting process of the album had begun.By December 2023, Testament had begun tracking their new album with mastering engineer Justin Shturtz at Sterling Sound in Nashville, but progress was slow, with Di Giorgio confirming in March 2024 that pre-production on the album had begun, and Billy revealing in June that "most of the drums" were recorded.The band members later announced that their new album would not be released until 2025.In April 2023, Lombardo announced that he would not be joining Testament throughout their 2023 tour dates, giving scheduling conflicts as the reason and expressing uncertainty that he would return to the band afterwards.He was officially replaced by former Seven Spires drummer Chris Dovas, who had filled in for Lombardo for a few U.S. dates the previous fall.On August 19, 2025, Testament released the first single titled "Infanticide A.I." from their then-untitled fourteenth album, being streamed exclusively on SiriusXM Liquid Metal with Jose Mangin.Two days later, they revealed Para Bellum as the title of their new album, which will be released on October 10, 2025.

Line-Up:

Chuck Billy - Vocals (1987-present) - See also: Beloved Ghouls, Metal Allegiance (live), Dublin Death Patrol, ex-Legacy, ex-Exodus (live), ex-Torture Squad (live), ex-Guilt, ex-Rampage
Eric Peterson - Guitars (1987-present) - See also: Spin the Wheel, ex-Dragonlord, ex-Legacy, ex-Anthrax (live)
Alex Skolnick - Guitars (1987-1992, 2001, 2005-present) - See also: Metal Allegiance, ex-Legacy, Alex Skolnick Trio, Hu$h Money, PAKT, ex-Savatage, ex-Trans-Siberian Orchestra, ex-Anthrax (live), ex-Ozzy Osbourne (live), ex-Attention Deficit, ex-Exhibit-A, ex-Stu Hamm (live)
Steve DiGiorgio - Bass (1998-2004, 2014-present) - See also: Act of Denial, Charred Walls of the Damned, Geoda, Gone in April, Johnny Newman, Mythodea, Quadvium, Spirits of Fire, Terra Odium, ex-Control Denied, ex-Funeral, ex-Futures End, ex-Synesis Absorption, Bassists Alliance Project, Death to All, Devil's Highway, ex-Anatomy of I, ex-Beltfed Weapon, ex-Itself, ex-Memorain, ex-Sadus, ex-Sebastian Bach, ex-Obituary (live), ex-Obscura (live), ex-Artension, ex-Death, ex-Ephel Duath, ex-Painmuseum, ex-Dragonlord, ex-Faust, ex-Dark Hall, ex-Soen, ex-Suicide Shift
Chris Dovas - Drums (2023-present) - See also: Dovas, Evulsion, FireWing, Vital Remains (live), ex-FirstBourne, ex-Seven Spires, ex-Unflesh, ex-Aversed (live), ex-Rithiya Henry Khiev (live), ex-Sonic Pulse (live)

Tracklist:

CD1:

01. For The Love Of Pain(5:35)
02. Infanticide A.I.(3:28)
03. Shadow People(5:45)
04. Meant To Be(7:33)
05. High Noon(3:53)
06. Witch Hunt(4:16)
07. Nature Of The Beast(4:28)
08. Room 177(4:18)
09. Havana Syndrome(4:40)
10. Para Bellum(6:31)

CD2:

01. Eerie Inhabitants(4:19)
02. The New Order(4:53)
03. Trial By Fire(4:44)
04. Into The Pit(3:09)
05. Disciples Of The Watch(4:43)
06. The Preacher(4:56)
07. A Day Of Reckoning(4:18)
08. Musical Death (A Dirge)(3:16)

CD3:

01. Over The Wall(4:50)
02. The Haunting(4:48)
03. Burnt Offerings(5:47)
04. Raging Waters(5:12)
05. C.O.T.L.O.D.(2:53)
06. First Trike Is Deadly(4:23)
07. Do Or Die(5:33)
08. Apocalyptic City(6:22)
09. Alone In The Dark(9:24)




Download links for all albums only on our blog here: http://goodmetalandhar.do.am/