Gothic Metal icon Morten Veland (Tristania, Sirenia) has inked a deal with Napalm Records for his new band Mortemia. Morten promises his fans a sweeping listening experience, which will follow the path of Tristania’s masterpiece “Beyond the Veil”. The first songs stay true to his promise and offer beautiful melodies and bombastic choir passages, thus creating the perfect blend of traditional Gothic Metal and modern elements.

"I am happy to have signed to Napalm Records for my new project Mortemia. I am looking forward to the cooperation with the label and to bring out more music to all the metal fans out there."

AHAB has completed work on the successor to their debut album "The Call of the Wretched Sea". Furthermore, the band has plans to tour throughout Germany shortly following the release of "The Divinity of Oceans" on 24 July 2009.

Christian Hector talked to us about the concept behind the upcoming album: "We remain faithful to our name. For this record, we took a closer look at Owen Chase and the Essex. Herman Melville was inspired to write Moby Dick by Owen’s accounts. Owen Chase’s log documents the tragic sinking of the Essex by a giant sperm whale. However, the tale continues to gruesomely chronicle the sailors' fight for survival in their longboats that eventually lead to cannibalism. It is a very tragic and shocking story."

The Folk Metal band Glittertind has sky-rocketed into the Norwegian national album charts with their latest offering "Landkjenning" and made it to number 21! Even the Norwegian international LP charts are not safe from the folk melodies and welcome Glittertind at number 56. A big “Thank You” to all supporters!

The German webzine sounds2move.de has posted an in-depth Trail of Tears online feature. In addition to reviews of each release of the Gothic Metal pioneers, Ronny and Cathrine comment on all songs of their latest album “Bloodstained Endurance”. Fans may check out the special HERE.