Mark Ronson is apparently set to produce Elton John’s next album, according to Fox News. The record will appear on the Universal/Republic label in late 2009. Meanwhile, Ronson is working with Amy Winehouse on a forthcoming tribute album for legendary producer Quincy Jones, as well as on Slash’s forthcoming solo record.

The Specials’ original line-up is reforming for a UK tour next year. The legendary Coventry ska group will play eight dates around England and Scotland, beginning in Newcastle on April 22. Formed in 1977, The Specials released two albums, “The Specials” and “More Specials”, before splitting in 1981.

The Smashing Pumpkins‘ new video can be watched below. The track – “G.L.O.W.” – has been directed by Justin Coloma, known for his work with a.o. Eagles of Death Metal Рё РїСЂ. Smashing Pumpkins – “G.L.O.W.“

Rob Halford offers the song “Christmas Ride” by his project Fight, originally released by Epic Records as a promo CD single in 1994, for free download via HalfordMusic.com. Simply add it to your shopping cart, check out (no payment necessary at checkout unless you are purchasing something else) and download it from your download library.

Dutch-Mexican gothic/progressive metal band Stream of Passion have entered the studio to begin recording their sophomore album. The follow-up to the debut “Embrace the Storm” (2005) is due in early 2009 via Napalm Records. Stream of Passion – “Out in the Real World“

Sepultura have posted new tracks “The Treatment” and “We’ve Lost You” at www.myspace.com/sepultura. These are to be featured on new album “A-Lex”, due out at the end of January.

Report comin’ soon… Meanwhile check out some photos in the РІ GALLERY.

The Revenge Project shall release their second album by the end of the year. The CD shall be entitled “Through Blood and Ashes” (view cover below), and here’s its final tracklist: 1. The Gate to My Soul2. 1000 Voices3. Blood and Ashes4. Read My Lips5. Diseased by Emotions6. Visions7. Quickly I’m Sinking

Times of Grace, featuring Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz and former Killswitch Engage/current Seemless frontman Jesse Leach, are in the studio working on their debut album which they expect to release next year.

Next Sunday’s edition of the Fracture weekly metal show on MM TV shall feature videos by Firewind, Eldritch, Madball, Nile, P.O.D., Opeth, The Toy Dolls, Satyricon, ZZ Top, Disturbed, Poisonblack and many more.