Leaves are falling all around, the clocks have moved back, stores are decorated for Christmas (too early), and there is a definite chill in the air. It was still hot inside the Sherman Theater when Richie Kotzen, John 5, and BAND Inc. came to Stroudsburg, PA. Continue reading
Founded by Dallas Toler-Wade (ex-Nile), Narcotic Wasteland has carved its own path with a relentless mix of technical precision and unflinching heaviness. The band is currently wrapping up their “Annihilation of the Wasteland” U.S. Tour.
Keefy caught up with Dallas to reflect on the band’s journey, the vision behind Narcotic Wasteland, and what fans can expect from their first European shows this Fall. With blistering riffs, crushing grooves, and thought-provoking lyrics, the band continues to prove why they’re one of the most vital acts in extreme metal. Continue reading
Jeff Hanneman, legendary guitarist of Slayer passed away on May 2nd, 2013, twelve years ago today. Ghost Cult continues to fly the flag of Slayer high, and customarily we celebrate the life of Jeff, the music he made and the stages he left scorched. His legacy as a riff maker, songwriter, soloist, and metal personality has not been dampened since his death. In the time since he passed, Ghost Cult covered Slayer just as heavily in Jeff’s life, as they released a final studio album with Jeff’s contributions (Repentless), had a legend and friend hold down his spot live (Gary Holt of Exodus), released a comic book with Jeff’s likeness, completed their final world tour ever of two years, released an incredible film/music video trilogy (The Repentless Killogy), and so much more. At the time of Jeff’s passing, many friends and peers, such as, former bandmate Dave Lombardo wrote a loving tribute to his fallen friend, and we have created two career-spanning retrospectives (read them here and here) on the end of the band, back in 2019. From the time Jeff passed and every night on that final world tour, Slayer honored Jeff during ‘Raining Blood’ with the “still reigning” banner. The unlikely Slayer comeback of 2024 (we were quoted in the press release!) and continuing this year is done with love and appreciation for Jeff, always. In addition to the Talking Slayer podcast, and check out the 4th edition of Slayer 66 2/3: A Metal Band Biography… Or, How Fuckin’ Slayer Kicked Fuckin’ Ass, both by our pal D.X. Ferris. As we say every year at this time: Hail Jeff and hail Slayer!