Megadeth have a new deal in place. It’s with Roadrunner. The band are currently working on a new, as yet untitled album.

Firebird, featuring former Napalm Death/Carcass guitarist Bill Steer, release new album ‘Hot Wings’ in early July. This will be on the Rise Above label.

Dave Baksh, guitarist with Sum 41, has left the Canadian punks. He intends to concentrate on his other band, Brown Brigade. They’re said to have a more classic metal approach.

Opeth have a new drummer. He’s Martin Axenrot, who takes over from Martin Lopez. The latter has decided to leave the Swedish band, because of ongoing health problems.

No Doubt have begun work on their new album. Members Tony Kanal, Tom Durmont and Adrian Young are currently working on demos without the presence of singer Gwen Stefani because she is the late stages of her pregnancy.The album with be the first new material from the band since 2001’s ‘Rock Steady’.

The Damned are to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the release of their debut album ‘Damned Damned Damned’ by performing the record in its entirety at London’s 100 Club on July 6. Joining original members Brian James (guitar) and Rat Scabies (drums) will be none other than Amen frontman Casey Chaos.

Megaforce has set an August 8 release date for the two-disc DVD from the legendary San Francisco Bay Area thrash metal band Vio-Lence, entitled “Blood and Dirt“. The DVD is produced and directed by Jerry Allen of Metallian Productions.

Guns n’ Roses have confirmed that their new guitarist is Ron Thal, formerly with New York band Bumblefoot. He’s replaced Buckethead.

Anathema are to release a DVD called ‘A Moment In Time’ through Metal Mind on June 19. This features a live performance filmed at this year’s Metalmania Festival in Poland. There will also be a number of extras, including video clips and a documentary.

Cradle Of Filth, Saxon, Within Temptation and Dark Tranquillity are among the big attractions for this year’s Evolution Festival,which happens from July 14-16 in Toscolana Maderno, Brescia, Italy. Also appearing are Death SS, Sadist, Labyrinth, Death Angel, Atheist, Armored Saint, Annihilator, Tristania, The Gathering, Amon Amarth and Moonspell.