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Album Details
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· Produced By: Millenium
· Running Time: 47.20
· Release Date: July 19
· Released: EU
· Genre: Melodic Metal
· LabelLink: AOR Heaven
· LabelLink:
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Artist Bio
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Vocals: Todd Plant
Guitars: Ralph Santolla
Guitars: Shane French
Bass: Steve McKenna & Tere
Bertke
Drums: Mark Prator
Florida's MILLENIUM were previously known as EYEWITNESS and issued an eponymous 1995 record and a 1996 follow up 'Messiah Complex' (which was only ever released in Japan). Guitarist RALPH SANTOLLA had also previously made his mark as touring guitarist for Chuck Schuldiner's premier Death Metal band DEATH whilst singer J. Todd Plant had contributed backing vocals to albums by the likes of SAVATAGE and KAMELOT as well as singing wrestler Hulk Hogan`s theme tune!
The band evolved into MILLENIUM during 1996 . As MILLENIUM the group opened up with 1997's self titled opus. The 1999 'Angelfire' album would witness the introduction of TEER guitarist Shane French into the fold. Although hailed as a classic of the genre upon its release the progress afforded the band by 'Angelfire' was all but quashed when frontman J. Todd Plant exited to work on the live circuit in a band also incorporating DOOBIE BROTHERS drummer Chet McCracken and former CHICAGO guitarist Chris Pinnick. This setback was rectified by the inclusion of erstwhile VAGABOND and THE SNAKES singer JORN LANDE, a man of immense vocal stature.
The SUBSEQUENT 'Hourglass' album was recorded in America, Norway and the UK during the summer of 2000. Distinctive keyboard parts were supplied by the RAINBOW, OZZY and WHITESNAKE veteran DON AIREY. Other contributors included TNT's Dag Stokke and former ZON/REFUGEE keyboardist Howard Helm.
Lande left MILLENIUM during May of 2002 to become frontman for the power metal supergroup MASTERPLAN. Shortly afterwards it was announced that erstwhile frontman Todd Plant had re-taken the role having become an even stronger singer and frontman through the past couple of years touring work.
The band then set about recording the current album, “Jericho”, having decided to take a step further towards the melodic metal style, with huge guitar riffs, pounding drums and bass, monumental vocal performances and absolutely stunning lead guitar work. Recording took place in Florida and the UK, with the mix being handled by consummate engineer Pete “Peewee” Coleman (AC/DC, PARADISE LOST, GARY HUGHES etc.) and amazing cover art supplied by renowned fantasy artist Geoff Taylor (Geoff Wayne`s “War Of The Worlds”). During the recording of the album it became clear that further changes had to be made within the band and this meant the introduction of a new rhythm section. For the album it was decided to use good friends Mark Prator (ICED EARTH, DEMONS AND WIZARDS, JOHN WESLEY) on drums and bassists Steve McKenna (TEN) and Tere Bertke of multi platinum act BLACKHAWK.
As an indication of the inherent quality of the musicians in MILLENIUM, main man Ralph Santolla was asked to join high profile Heavy Metal band ICED EARTH for their “Glorious Burden” album and tour whilst the bands other guitarist Shane French, retaining his MILLENIUM ties, joined former SAVATAGE vocalist Zak Stevens act CIRCLE II CIRCLE in early 2003.
The band intends to tour towards the end of 2004 once the ICED EARTH tour allows for it and to get back into the studio soon after for a further album.
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