December 8 marked the ten-year anniversary of Dimebag Darrell’s death. Certainly a lot of us of age can remember where they were when they got the news: This scribe was in the parking lot in college waiting to go to class when a text message came in with the news. This was pre-Twitter era, meaning news didn’t travel as fast and mis-information was bandied about rather easily, including one bad rumor that drummer Vinnie Paul was also murdered. But, it’s remarkable to think ten years have passed since Abbott’s death, a reminder of how fast time goes…and how influential the guitarist was. – David E. Gehlke
General housekeeping
Best-ofs a-plenty, including Kyle McGinn and Matt Coe. Check ’em out.
Our November Album of the Month: Ne Obliviscaris’s fantastic Citadel.
Features
British extremists Anaal Nathkrakh enjoy a new lease on life on Metal Blade, something they shared in this interview.
Reviews
Finland’s Scapes bring out sorrow on One: Unseen: One.
British post-black metallers Fen miss the mark on Carrion Skies, probably because its predecessor was so excellent.
Encoffination keeps the slow-mo doom going on III: Hear Me ‘O Death (Sing Thou Wretched Choirs).
Cult (and controversial) black metal outfit Taake provide a hostile listen via Stridens hus.
As a primer to their forthcoming new album (due in early 2015), Blind Guardian bust out with the Twilight of the Gods EP.
Long-running noise-mongers Today is the Day prove why they’re so…long-running with Animal Mother.
Downfall of Gaia make things “bleak and hopeless” on Aeon Unveils the Thrones of Decay.
Soilwork gives fans a treat with the bonus-filled Beyond the Infinite.
The news in ten
1. U.D.O. releases video for “Decadent.”
2. Blind Guardian issues the second trailer for their new album.
3. Massacre calls it a day.
4. Immortal can’t decide on who owns their name.
5. Marduk streams a new jam.
6. Judas Priest to re-release Defenders of the Faith.
7. Suicide Silence announces 2015 winter tour dates.
8. Cattle Decapitation to hit the studio.
9. Anthrax pay tribute to Dimebag Darrell.
10. Nightwish to release “Elan” single in January.