Heavy Metal-World.com has Moved to WWW.ITCHYMETAL.COM

Hey Heavy Metal enthusiasts - the original blog is still here, but the official site and all the latest news from Itchy Metal has now officially moved to our new site at WWW.ITCHYMETAL.COM

Come check us out over there!  \m/

THE WORLD PREMIERE MUSIC VIDEO “THE ROAD” BY MIKEDRASTIC

Click on over to ITCHYMETAL and Chk out the new music video from IME Artist MikeDrastic: http://bit.ly/gKi1hb

Itchy Metal Gets Punk’d with Shotguns N Gasoline

Roots- Not the movie, the origins. It’s no big secret that all music stems from many similar sources; Styles borrowing from other styles, influences shaping art and collaborations that break down traditional barriers.

For instance: Jazz fuels blues, which impacted rock, then bred metal and we definitely can’t forget about punk. In fact, it’s that shameless punk rebellion which defines an entire generation and sub-culture of extremely vocal anarchists chanting, “We just don’t give a F! F the man! F the world! And of course, F you!!”  Sounds like a typical day at the office.

So when indie label Itchy Metal Entertainment decided to join the chant, some immediate responses were unsurprisingly: “WTF?” But it’s exactly that raw, balls-out (sometimes quite literally) perspective that sounded like the perfect “sign-o-the-times” soundtrack to the LA company during a recent discussion with Derek James, lead guitarist of the Sin-City punk band “Shotguns-N-Gasoline”.

“With metal, we jumped head-first into a genre and culture that literally breeds controversy and takes today’s social issues head on,” explains Ed Fassio, CEO of IME Records. “Most of IME’s artists have some part of their stage persona emulated in the real world. In the case of punk music and SNG, it’s literally life following art in everything they do. Their music, the lyrics and attitude- It’s all very genuine.”

Fassio began work with SNG 36 months prior, accompanying the group in the early days at local Las Vegas bars and underground hang-outs. It was 2008, the year Shotguns-N-Gasoline first launched on to the west coast music scene after various incarnations of James’ previous musical endeavors. Joining him, Michael Ullemeyer (percussionist) and Logan Pochatko (bass and vocals) merged to form the band’s original line-up – still in existence today. Since inception the punk trio has embarked on several self-promoted tours, playing with an impressive list of headliners including the Horror Pops, Dead Kennedys and the Voodoo Glow Skulls.  In addition to sharing national stages, the band holds endorsements with Seymour Duncan, Ernie Ball and Converse.

While heavy metal can get dark and serious, SNG addresses the same controversial scenarios and keeps it fun. SNG fans often find themselves shouting provocative lyrics nestled in the song’s catchy melodies. All the while, you’re moshing and downing a cold one after a long day at a job you hate. “I think at some point in our lives, we can all relate to that,” adds Fassio.

SNG’s new alignment with Itchy Metal reunites the trio with Fassio for a 2 year promo and distribution deal. Their first release on the new label will include the popular tracks: “SNG Anthem” and “Mom Vomit”.

SCMetalBay.com Interviews "A Band of Orcs" @ Slim's Show - San Francisco

Reposted from the official ABoO website: www.abandoforcs.com

Kevin Johnson from SC Metal Bay caught A Band of Orcs as they came off stage Saturday Night at Slim’s in San Francisco. The Orcs gave a ballsy performance, opening up for String Metal masters "Judgement Day" and the original Action-Adventure Rockers, "ArnoCorps".

Soultone Endorses Hector "Beast" Gomez from Control the Chaos

Hector "Beast" Gomez from Control the Chaos

Every company searches for the perfect platform to showcase their products and services. Many times, a personality will be approached to lend their character to the company’s brand hoping to strengthen awareness and build an image that will inevitably lead to greater exposure and sales.

That’s why Sako Karaian, A&R rep for Soultone Cymbals singled out one particular drummer the moment he saw him. “This guy had the look, he knew his gear and spoke professionally,” commented Sako. “I’ve seen a ton of drummers in my dealings on tour, at West LA Music and being the drum tech for System of a Down. I can tell the moment I look at someone whether they’d be someone we want to work with. So I invited him down to the studio and the guy impressed the heck out of everybody.”

That guy was Hector Gomez, aka “The Beast” from the band “Control the Chaos”- one of the most recognizable new indie names on the LA heavy metal scene.

“We were recording across the street at the Village Studios in LA. We had to make a quick run to grab some acoustic guitars for the session and I started talking drums with Sako. I introduced him to Ed, my manager and they immediately started discussing endorsement possibilities,” states Gomez.

Soon afterwards, Control the Chaos was invited to Soultone’s factory headquarters in Encino, CA to meet with the company’s founder and formalize the cymbal endorsement for Gomez.

“These guys were very inviting and the showroom was like being a kid in a candy store,” said Gomez. “The craftsmanship of the cymbals is phenomenal and the brilliance in their sound is amazing. It’s no wonder they are a favorite of some of the most famous drummers in the world.”

Soultone was originally founded in 2003 by the legendary drummer, percussionist, and entrepreneur Iki Levy, after struggling to address frustrations with the major cymbal manufacturers over quality issues. “I wanted to use the best products possible, and I had the opportunities, but I was not happy with anything those companies were producing – even with my product endorsements,” reports Iki. “The blend of the metals we use is our own process that employs a balance of proper weight and tone properties. This creates the real difference between Soultone Cymbals and any other brand.”

Iki’s performances include work with Thomas Dolby, Jann Arden, Midge Ure, Paula Abdul, Tracy Chapman, Donna Summer and the now cult-hit, Disney’s High School Musical, as well as many others. His approach crosses over each style and genre of music when it comes to sound quality. Originally, as the proprietor of the Los Angeles, CA drum specialty shop, The Drum Connection, he put his first Soultone models on the showroom floor with actual drums so that customers could try them as opposed to hanging them on a display. “The reaction was huge,” Iki continues, “and I could not produce them fast enough to meet the demand for even my own shop. I was not afraid to have high standards and wanted to create the very best quality.” Iki maintains a strict “120% perfection” policy in that each cymbal must meet his own specific quality controls. He does not sell anything that is not already exceeding expectations – if it is not perfect; it goes back to his facility. – From www.soultonecymbals.com

Gomez’s endorsement includes a custom branded “BEAST” of “CONTROL THE CHAOS” cymbal based on the SoulTone Extreme series.  As a part of the contract, he will support the use of the cymbals for all live performance, recording and public appearance. Detailed terms of the contract are non-disclosed.

Starting 2011 in Darkness, HMW Signs Vegas Metal Band “diM.” to IME Records

There’s nothing visually dark about the Vegas strip. Rather, the entire place lights up like a Christmas tree each night of the year, beckoning wide eyed tourists and star struck entertainers twenty-four hours a day.

As if to balance the illumination overload, darkness reveals itself within the city’s underground metal scene. It is here that Itchy Metal Entertainment first encountered the explosive sound of Death in Motion (aka diM.)

“I’ve had the privilege of seeing their live show several times,” reflects Ed Fassio, President of IME Records. “diM. commands a very impressive stage presence and they have a very loyal and intense audience.”

diM. are six members bonded by a common interest and love for heavy music. Formed in February of 2006, the sinister sextuplets have shared stage with some of the most brutal, up and coming heavy acts across the nation including: Mushroomhead, Motograter, Divine Heresy, Asesino, Agnostic Front, Spineshank, Otep and Silent Civilian – just to name a few.

With vocal styles reminiscent of sounds from the Deftones, Killswitch Engage, and Sevendust, the group consistently pushes the sound barrier; bringing unique elements to their music including distorted keyboard and samples that sound like recordings from a torture chamber.  Manifesting as the very embodiment of heavy metal, diM’s rhythm section blends unique patterns and grooves with drum fills that roll like an avalanche. And to wrap it up with one big, bloody knot, the band’s Slayer-styled guitar work serves as a facial power punch of unforgiving audio assault.

In early 2011, fans can expect two initial releases from the band through Itchy Metal Entertainment. Future plans include additional projects, merchandise and additional musical considerations. Signing the band on New Year’s Eve, IME Records is making literal bets that the future of Heavy Metal-World™ is: diM.

“I’m very excited to welcome diM. to the label and the world can expect great things from these guys,” adds Fassio. “I love it when bands can deliver the unexpected and shock the senses. These guys draw everyone in for the kill.”

A Band of Orcs Interview on Metal Head Radio 1/7/2011

Listen up ABoO Fans! Just in time for their San Francisco performance at Slim's on 1/8/2011, A Band of Orcs will be interviewed by DJ Rob on January 7th @ 7:30PM PST.

Always entertaining, this is one to mark on the calendars! Find out what's in store for 2011 as the Orcs share their plans for world domination during their first interview of the New Year.

Live on: www.metalheadradio.com

For more about the band, visit their official website at:

www.abandoforcs.com

also on ReverbNation: www.reverbnation.com/abandoforcs

Guitar Virtuoso “Andrew Soto” Signs to IME Records

Once in a while a person comes along with a unique, natural gift simply defined as “ability”. When that same artist also enjoys performing, the result is pure entertainment. Such is the case of guitarist Andrew Soto.  The 22 year-old San Pedro, CA native brings speed, melody and thrilling showmanship to the table as the latest artist to sign to IME Records.

Officially launched in November 2010, IME Records is the reincarnation of Itchy Metal Entertainment (originally a music production company) from Las Vegas, NV. After being acquired by Los Angeles Media agency Heavy Metal-World™, IME set out to find a unique pool of talent across multiple genres with a specific focus on metal-influenced musicians. A talent rep brought Soto’s online videos to the attention of Ed Fassio, VP of A&R for HMW and President of IME Records.

“I first saw Andrew Soto on YouTube and it was quite the show. I became an instant fan and was very impressed with his playing,” explains Fassio. “I knew there was potential for a great project together.”

Andrew Soto has been playing guitar since 16.  Self-taught, his sound is absolutely heavy metal with melodies that often possess a jazz-fusion quality. Multi-faceted, Soto plays a variety of instruments including bass, drums and keyboards bringing to life his own blend of blues, rock and speed metal.

As described on his online profiles:

“His music tells a story that is packed with passion, rage, edginess and is deeply introspective. Andrew weaves tight licks to create the atmosphere of a thrill ride. At times, he is reminiscent of an early John McLaughlin, lead guitarist of the Mahavishnu Orchestra…” - http://www.myspace.com/andrewsolo666

Never is this more apparent than on his self-produced tracks “Senses Collapse” and “A New Beginning”. Andrew’s music attacks the senses with an onslaught of instrumental acrobatics. But the intensity really comes to life while watching him actually play the songs.

“What you’ll find in Andrew is someone who is very proficient instrumentally. It’s easy to become transfixed on the way he plays and the smoothness of his delivery,” adds Fassio. “This translates perfectly as an artist who not only composes, but also knows how to capture an audience.”

Signed as a solo-act, the possibilities for Andrew are endless. IME has immediate plans to release two singles from Soto and opportunities are already in development to expand on the new relationship. As the future unfolds, fans can be sure that both label and artist will leverage a full license for unlimited creativity.

Check out Andrew in action on guitar and bass:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsSVYi1GlkE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKof4uWbsGQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYLCqKkesro&feature=related

For additional info on Andrew, check out his official website at:
www.andrewsotoofficial.com

Heavy Metal-World™ Signs A Band of Orcs to IME Records

When LA media agency Heavy Metal-World™ (HMW) opened submissions for new artists during the 2010 Holiday season, the indie outfit had some very specific goals in mind. Focused on assembling a unique approach by re-engineering the relationship between artist and record label, the company was hell-bent on crafting a common vision for success and set out to find musicians that would understand and share a passion for creativity.

Scouring the earth to find a combination of that kind of character, skill and work ethic sometimes requires looking beyond the norm.  It’s exactly that type of magnetic synergy which introduced unearthly beings A Band of Orcs to HMW’s newly formed division, IME Records.

A Band of Orcs is literally a big bunch of gruesome, brutal, intimidating Orcs that also happen to be kick-ass musicians. If you’re having a hard time digesting this concept, give it some time. But don’t take too long or you may just end up the one digested as Orcs have a nasty tendency towards being hungry. 

It just so happens they’ve also developed a strong affection for composing and performing heavy metal music, a combination that only the head-banging population could embrace, encourage and endorse.

Now, some might challenge whether or not non-humans could interact or even exist among our kind. Not only do they exist but they’ve found a welcome, new home within the cave of Itchy Metal Entertainment, recently joining as the latest signees of the Los Angeles-based record company.

“A Band of Orcs delivers the perfect combination of performance and chemistry to our roster of new artists,” states Ed Fassio, President of IME Records and VP of A&R for Heavy Metal-World™. “Drama, theatrics, characterization and brutality – these are core ingredients we wanted for our label and this band does NOT disappoint. This is skillfully accurate death metal delivered through larger-than-life manifestations: Orcs, heavy metal and pure genius.”

As mentioned, the Orcs musical preference is VERY heavy metal. But one might inquire as to how they acquired this taste. Hence, the official story as told by their manager, Gruesom Grimp:

“In December of 2006, a group of young nerds playing Dungeons & Dragons inadvertently summoned the monstrous oRcs into your realm by rolling dice on a “Random Encounter Table.” Unfortunately for them, they encountered A Band of Orcs, who reacted with all of the inappropriate violence that you might expect from such savage warriors.   The oRcs' world changed forever, though, when they heard the demonic sounds of Slayer coming from downstairs.  Enchanted with this new form of noise they forced the amateur guitarist they unearthed there to teach them how they could generate such sounds. They spared his life, and he gave them the materials they needed to make metal into magic.”  -  Visit www.abandoforcs.com for the full story…

With critically acclaimed releases such as their debut EP WarChiefs of the Apocalypse and their Fuse-TV promoted video Into the Maelstrom, a Band of Orcs has already made significant impact within music, film and radio circles.

Known for their theatrical live performance, the Orcs have also shared stage with Bay Area action-adventure-hardcore legends ArnoCorps, European death metallers Master, Canadian power-houses 3 Inches of Blood (remember their 2003 epic challenge to all orcdom "Destroy the Orcs?"), as well as nationals Deicide and Skinlab. Venturing outside of metal into the hardcore punk scene, they've also played with Battalion of Saints in San Diego.

As it states on their official website:
“A Band of Orcs want nothing less than to become Metal Gods in your puny human realm.  As such they crave praise and glory on the road. We would be honored for the opportunity to assault your puny human ear-drums to secure apotheosis for A Band of Orcs as deities in the Metalverse.”

And Itchy Metal Entertainment is here to help them do just that.

HEAVY METAL-WORLD™ Seeks New Artists for IME Records

Record label and new media agency, Heavy Metal World™, opens its doors to new artists in its first call for submissions. The open call, which kicks off today and runs until January 15, 2011, will give new and emerging artists a chance to tap in—not only to a world of all things heavy and rock—but also to a new world of musical distribution and promotion strategies aimed at helping artists take their career to the next level. With an ear trained on this genre, HMW focuses on giving attention to the specific needs and challenges heavy metal artists face.

“It’s a new, no, I would say, an “evolving” world of music,” says Ed Fassio, VP of HMW’s A&R division, “one that’s digital, fast paced, and laced with competition. Artists today face a paradox: there have never been more ways or opportunities to get their music to the public, but at the same time they are weighed down or even paralyzed by the sheer number of options available—new technologies, new policies, new distractions—the dream of being a rockstar isn’t new but the methods are and they’re constantly changing. Heavy Metal World offers one of the biggest value adds an artist could ask for: handling the business side without the puppet strings.”

For metal rockers, who take great pride in the raw, unpredictable, and analog nature of their music, this kind of planning and foray into the digital world can seem intimidating or even counter to the very culture of their roots, but it’s part of the process of being a musician that can’t be ignored.

Cody Davis, guitarist for Control the Chaos, one of HMW’s most successful acts knows this all too well, “When you’re in a band, you use all the energy, time, and money you have in creating music, and then once you get to a place where you like it, you realize—wait a sec—there’s more? Everyone thinks that being in a band is about having fun and making music, I mean, it is, but that’s just the first step. We would still be in our garage without HMW’s guidance.“

The quarterly call for submissions ends at midnight PST January 15, 2011. Digital submissions can be sent to:
heavymetalworldwide@gmail.com

Or, send us your SoundCloud link and contact info.

For more information or to schedule an interview please contact the A&R division of HMW

Ed Fassio
VP of A&R, Heavy Metal-World™, Inc.
CEO of IME Records, Inc.
Ed.fassio@gmail.com
702.879.8205

About Heavy Metal-World™:
Heavy Metal-World is a new media agency HQ’ed in Los Angeles, CA comprised of industry experts and developed in early 2008 as an innovative way to market, manage, promote and distribute new media and independent music by leveraging emerging platforms and partners.

www.heavymetal-world.com

About Itchy Metal Entertainment, Inc:
Recently acquired by Heavy Metal-World, Inc. Itchy Metal Entertainment is a Las Vegas, NV – based music production company. IME specializes in artist development, talent scouting, music recording, producing and distribution as well as internet marketing campaigns and strategies – aka “IME Records”.

For original PR info please visit:  http://bit.ly/i9rXwd

Heavy Metal-World™ Sets the Stage with Gig Boss

Every artist across each genre of music comes to the point in their careers where it becomes necessary to take their act directly to an audience.  When that time comes, most are faced with a common dilemma: Where to play?

As the independent music scene evolves more companies have become involved with booking resources.  Some have fee based systems, others stay strictly underground, but all have one common synergy – the ability to help artists get on stage.  Still, finding the right venue and establishing the correct contacts that enable a show comes with challenges.

It all begins with finding and securing a first show, and not getting screwed in the process. One such outfit entirely dedicated to helping independent artists find stages, gigs and residencies at great venues is The Gig Boss. Operating from South Orange County, California- GigBoss.com always keeps the artist in mind, first.

“Most artists work within limited budgets and with the current state of pay-to-play situations out there, it’s becoming increasingly more difficult for new acts to break on to the scene,” states Ed Fassio, head of IME Records. “The Gig Boss hosts a consolidated list of available gigs, requirements and information that allows musicians to screen for the best opportunities to showcase their art."

When assembling the label, Fassio wanted to stay in close connection with the independent scene, working directly with artists and the partners that were truly dedicated to helping them succeed.  Having used the Gig Boss resources while managing his own acts, he knew their operations were reputable and honest.

“This resource is great. Gig Boss has done a tremendous amount of footwork and all information regarding the opportunities is clearly stated,” adds Fassio. “One of the best things about the Gig Boss is the transparency. This is an entertainer, giving back to entertainers. There’s no hidden agenda, no barriers to entry. All you have to do is get added to the mailing list or subscribe to the blog and you have all the information you need to secure a gig.”

GigBoss.com hopes to be the premier “Entertainers showcase”, where clients come looking for entertainment of all types for their events and venues and vice versa. In addition, all Gig Boss listings are FREE.

For more information on The Gig Boss, please visit: http://www.myspace.com/gigboss/blog

IME Signs First Hip-Hop Artist with a Flavor for Heavy Metal

Each year, aspiring MC's assemble material and take stage with hopes of breaking onto the scene. For 2011, new media company HMW is placing bets on MikeDrastic, the first hip-hop signee to Heavy Metal-World’s IME Records.

The Seattle native was polishing his musical prowess when approached by Heavy Metal-World™ with the opportunity for a new direction. Primarily a rock label, HMW's record label (Itchy Metal Entertainment) took interest in Drastic after hearing the song Worst Side of Me over a stylistic sample of super rockers The Scorpions massive hit “Still Lovin’ You”

“The release we plan for Mike isn’t a heavy metal record,” confirms Ed Fassio from IME Records. “We were impressed by his creative twist on a super-hit, proving that a great riff can perfectly compliment a compelling story and there’s a science to that combination.”

Drastic started early buzz by self-releasing his EP earlier this year.  "Worst Side of Me" is actually the song that got Fassio interested in signing the Emerald City rapper after an introduction through long-time business partner and friend, Don Melendez while working together at Itchy Metal Entertainment.

On first listen the track enters with a familiar guitar scale via The Scorpions, and sets a lonely tone. Then, Drastic releases an awesomely haunting commentary. It might sound like a typical track about some lost soul on the wrong path, but his lyrical delivery draws from the contemplations in his own mind. It’s an autobiography of sorts; the perpetual struggle as an artist, navigation of life and constant temptation to choose justifiable, yet doomed alternatives.

Linking with MikeDrastic was a calculated decision and an intentional part of IME’s plans to challenge traditional thinking.

“Rap and Rock co-exist and when done correctly, you have legendary hits like Run DMC and Aerosmith, Linkin Park and Jay-Z,” adds HMW’s founder Rebel-O. “While developing the strategy for IME, we never planned to alienate other genres. However, we are very particular when venturing outside of metal. We needed someone with the ability to add depth to any sound, brings a level of maturity to the game and can artistically collaborate.” This enables new directions for the company and for the music.

Persevering from past to the present, MikeDrastic has shared stage with legendary MC’s Digital Underground and Sir Mix-a-Lot. His upcoming release through Itchy Metal will be the first on a label.

For more information on MikeDrastic, visit: www.mikedrastic.com

About Heavy Metal-World™:

Heavy Metal-World (HMW) is a new media agency HQ’ed in Los Angeles, CA comprised of industry experts and developed in early 2008 as an innovative way to market, manage, promote and distribute new media and independent music by leveraging emerging platforms and partners.

# # #

Acquired by HMW in November 2010, Itchy Metal Entertainment is a Las Vegas, NV based music production company, specializing in artist development, talent scouting, music recording, producing and distribution as well as internet marketing campaigns and strategies.

Mixing "Magic" with "Metal" Creates Heavy Combo for Business

Heavy Metal-World™ and Black Magic Productions combine efforts to help new heavy metal acts go to market, enabling a strong alliance across the southwest independent metal scene...

As head of A&R for Heavy Metal-World™, Ed Fassio spends a lot of time interacting with indie musicians.  His job is to create effective go-to-market strategies that enable artists to develop viable revenue sources from their craft, often targeting a specific region or demographic. But the ability to pinpoint acts with the combination of capability, drive and dedication isn’t always easy.

“It’s simply a matter of bandwidth because there are so many independents out there. Going solo you may miss out on the hidden gems; the ones that really want and need a higher level of support,” explains Fassio. “It’s better to partner with the eyes and ears that can help you stay closer to the pulse and multiply yourself.”

For this, Fassio expands his already existing knowledge of the scene through strategic alliances; in particular, his musical relationship with Christopher Pancoast of Black Magic Productions. Known as “PAN” across the Vegas indie community, Black Magic understands the underground scene, lives at the front-end of raw metal talent and keeps his ear firmly to the street.

“As a licensed booking agent and heavy metal promoter, I get to see bands at all levels,” states PAN. “It’s exciting to see a young group grow to the point where they are ready to take their careers to the next level.”

In tandem with Fassio, the mission is simple: Help bands capitalize on what they love to do. “I’ve always supported the projects that Ed’s been involved in and this is a great opportunity to leverage our mutual resources,” adds PAN.

“Working with Black Magic allows HMW to duplicate efforts and the collaboration goes both ways. We follow the basic principle that more can be accomplished together than separately,” concludes Fassio.

The partnership enables both companies to broaden their industry networks, leverage mutual resources and react more quickly to changes in the fast-paced independent metal scene across the Las Vegas and Los Angeles markets.

 
Black Magic Productions holds five licenses in Las Vegas: Professional Promoter, General Admission, Music Distribution, Clothing Retail, and Novelty Sales.
 

For more information on Black Magic Productions, visit:  www.blackmagicproductions.com

About Heavy Metal-World™:
Heavy Metal-World™ is a new media agency HQ’ed in Los Angeles, CA comprised of industry experts and developed in early 2008 as an innovative way to market, manage, promote and distribute new media and independent music by leveraging emerging platforms and partners.

Black Tide Bassist, Zakk Sandler Recovering from Auto Accident

A note from Zakk from Black Tide's Official Band Page:

From the comfort of my bed,

Thank you all for your positive thoughts and wishes. I have a broken nose, hurt my neck, bit a hole through my lip, and I'm just achy and banged up all over but I will be fine and back to normal in a few weeks. It's things like this that just wake me up and show me how great it is to be alive and how fortunate I am to have been able to walk away from this with such minimal damage to my body. I've heard plenty of stories and seen plenty of pictures of auto accidents that are absolutely horrific. Looking at the damage done to the car makes me truly grateful for the life that I will continue to live. Love you all !!

-Zakk

Bizzy Bone Inks New Deal, Preps Heavy Metal Mash-up Album

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony rapper Bizzy Bone has inked a new deal with D.C.-based label Sumerian Records to release his fifteenth solo album, 'Crossroads 2010,' which is now slated to be a heavy metal and hip-hop mash-up.

The album--originally intended for release on Sphinx City Records--is Bizzy's first foray into the world of heavy metal. According to label founder Ash Avildsen, the digital record debuted online July 27, followed by an official August 24 release. Avildsen confirmed Bizzy's new record deal in a statement to AllHipHop, explaining that it was his most "polished" album since his 1998 debut 'Heaven'z Movie,' which was followed by a series of underground albums.

"It's true and the album is incredible," Avildsen said. "Anyone who has closely followed the label knows that we have never been one dimensional in the bands we have signed and the records we have released. While we have been making a meaningful impact on the current state of heavy music, the true theme to Sumerian has always been about progressive music, not just metal. Bizzy Bone is one of the most progressive vocalists I have ever heard."

Bizzy Bone recently appeared on the cast of VH1's 'Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew,' after admitting that he struggles with marijuana and alcohol abuse.

Re-posted from The BoomBox: http://aol.it/hfPVVZ