Slayer‘s Tom Araya has had a minor gallbladder operation. But this does mean that the start of the ‘Unholy Alliance’ US tour, headlined by Slayer, has been postponed until June 10. Also on the bill are Lamb Of God, Children Of Bodom and Mastodon.

Nine Inch Nails mainman Trent Reznor is currently working songs with poet/rapper Saul Williams. These are expected to be used by the latter on his next album, due out in ’07.

Slayer are to release an EP shortly, which will only be available through the Hot Topic Stores in America. This is to precede their new, as yet untitled album, and is will include one new song, ‘Cult’. The record itself is due out at the end of July.

Vocalist Jorn Lande has quit Masterplan, as the power metal crew are preparing to record their third album. Apparently, Lande fell out with the rest of the band over the musical direction. No news yet on a replacement.

Original singer Tobey Torres has re-joined Snake River Conspiracy. She replaces Martina Axen, who departed for personal reasons.

Axl Rose has broken his silence about the band’s long, long overdue new album, ‘Chinese Democracy’. The singer now says it’ll be out in the Autumn. Don’t hold your breath.

Former I Mother Earth frontman Edwin is releasing his third solo album, Try This At Home. The 13-song disc is slated for an August 15th release on Linus Entertainment/Universal Music Canada. Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson is on several tracks, including ‘Never Over’ which should be a single.

Murder One will suppРѕrt Raging Speedhorn at the Yeovil Ski Lodge on May 26. Murder One‘s debut album, ‘Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid’ is due to be released on May 29th.

The Long Blondes have announced details of the first single to be released through new label Rough Trade. Рўhe band will release ‘Weekend Without Make Up’ on 19th June, backed with B-sides ‘Platitudes’, ‘Last Night On Northgate Street’ and ‘Forward Babylon’.

Lacuna Coil are to release a new single on June 26. It’s their version of the Depeche Mode classic ‘Enjoy The Silence’. This will be available through Century media in two CD formats and also on seven inch blue coloured vinyl.