December 31, 2004
Craig Nielsen has posted the following Flotsam update on the message board:
“At long last, we start the record on January 2nd, after a series of delays,
some to do with the band and some to do with the label. We are very recharged
and ready to do a great Flotsam record.
Also, the video of one
of our recent Tokyo shows came out even much better than we could have ever
imagined thanks to the intense professionalism of the Japanese who recorded it,
and the fact that it was one of the very best live shows this band has captured
in their entire career. So we will shop it for another live release, as it
actually blows away even our recent DVD.
And for upcoming shows,
Flotsam will be playing with HATEBREED and AGNOSTIC FRONT on the "Goodyfest" in
Phoenix, January 14th, then we play the next night, January 15th, at the "Deep
Freeze" event in Westminister, Colorado, very close to Denver.
Bad news for the Flotsam/METAL CHURCH tour. The story has
changed at least 5 times from the 3 different agencies involved so I wont even
bother trying to decipher what really happened, but the tour is off. Agents have
a tendency to lie a lot and constantly change what they come strong and sure at
you with in the beginning as a proposal. We are still getting many, many emails
from Europeans who would really like to see Flotsam so we may still make it
happen.
As always, a very sincere thank you to all loyal Flotsam
fans who continue to show so much support through all the
bullshit!
Flots Til Death.”
October 14, 2004
The following news byte comes from Bravewords & Bloody Knuckles:
Magick Records, a division of Cleopatra Records, are
issuing the CD version of FLOTSAM AND JETSAM's recent DVD, Live In Phoenix, in
early 2005. The show was recorded live at the Bash On Ash in the band's hometown
of Phoenix, AZ on July 18th, 2003. The tentative tracklisting is as follows:
'No Place For Disgrace', 'Swatting At Flies', 'Hard On You', 'Chemical Noose',
'Me', 'Wading Through The Darkness', 'The Master Sleeps', 'Nothing To Say',
'Trash', 'Hammerhead', 'Secret Square', 'Escape From Within' and 'Dig Me Up To
Bury Me'.
As previously reported, Flotsam drummer Craig Nielsen says that their next
studio album is almost completely written and will be recorded before the end of
the year. Expect a release through Crash Music in early 2005 as well.
October 6, 2004
Craig Neilsen had this to say about their shows in Japan:
"Just wanted to tell everyone that the Japanese shows were over the top killer. We had no idea what to expect because the band has never played there before now, but the fans are unbelievable. Very enthusiasic, respectful, hard core metal lovers. Everything about this trip was first class in every detail. In all the countries this band has played in, Japan was the most mind blowing. The clubs were great, best sound and lights to be had, all the shows packed to capacity. Death Angel and Overkill also played great and the whole vibe was just incredible. We will never pass up the opportunity to go there as many times as we are offered............"
September 16, 2004
Craig Nielsen posted the following update on the message board on 9/15/2004:
"Just letting everyone know that the official start of the recording of the new record for Crash Music is on October 7. This gives us a release sometime in the beginning of '2005. We dont have a title yet. Also, the Japanese shows (Thrash Domination) are just a week away. We have our tickets and visas, and have been told by the promoters to expect sellouts for all the shows, in fact our first Tokyo show club holds 1300, and they have presold 1450 tickets, the other Tokyo, and the Osaka show are near capacity right now, the walk up will put them over the top. This will be the first time in this bands career that we will play Japan, and we cant ####ing wait. For me personally, this is a milestone, a lifelong goal. There is also one more show to plug. Flotsam will play Tucson in 2 days, Friday, Sept. 17 at The Rock with Fevered Dreams and Motive, 2 excellent local bands. I'll post soon with more info............"
August 18, 2004
Craig Nielsen has posted the following update on the message board:
"Just wanted to say that the new record is almost completely written. We would still like to write 2 or 3 more songs going in, and the vocals still need to be completed, but the music so far is inspired and heavy and we are very much looking forward to start recording within a month to a month and a half. The only thing that will take place before then is the upcoming Japanese tour with Death Angel and Overkill, Im not sure if Testament is confirmed because they have a different agent. Those dates are Sept. 24, 25, 26. The Metallica tribute record came out incredible. Motorhead, Death Angel, Dark Angel, Eric Singer, Chuck Billy, Alex Skolnick, Randy Castillo, Bruce and Bob Kulick, Tommy Victor, Nuno Bettencourt, Scott Travis, Joey Vera, Scott Ian Whitfield Crane, Mike Inez, Joe Lynn Turner, and many other great musicians are on it, and the thing kicks ass. It has been released already. Our live DVD has been doing good business so far, and the email we get about it is overwhelmingly positive. I will post soon with any other updates.........FlotsTilDeath!!"
July 11, 2004
I received an update from Craig Nielsen which will be some good news to all Japanese fans. Flotsam and Jetsam, along with Testament, Overkill, and Death Angel will perform together on the Thrash Domination 2004 tour, which right now consists of three dates. The shows are scheduled for September 24th, 25th, and 26th. The first two dates are in Tokyo and the last one is in Osaka. More details will be posted as they are received.
The band are looking at August for possibly recording the next studio album. They are currently in writing mode.
June 8, 2004
Craig Nielsen had this to report about the Bravewords 6 pack Weekend show:
"Just getting back from a VERY well organized, killer show in Cleveland. If only all festivals ran this smoothly for the bands. First class top to bottom. Sincere thanks to Tim Henderson and the entire staff at BW&BK for having us participate. The fans were incredible. Most all the bands got great response. Flotsam sold out of the 50 or so new DVD's that Cleopatra completed just in time for the show. We were overwhelmed with the support and love fans showed to us after our performance. The band was on fire. A.K. was in top form, what a great night. It is definitely nights like that which remind us what the hell this crazy band life is all about. I hope next week in San Antonio is more of the same great vibe..............Flots out."
May 26, 2004
Flotsam drummer Craig Nielsen has posted the following update on the message board:
"Just wanted to announce formally that
Flotsam has signed on the dotted line and will begin recording the bands 10th
record this summer. The deal is with Crash Music, formally known as Pavement.
The label has an extensive, impressive roster and catalogue, and we are very
happy with the commitment already shown by the label to this band. They have
excellent distribution through Caroline and a very solid track record of
promotion and exposure for their artists. Their website is Crashmusicinc.com.
They were the label that had a good degree of success with Crowbar, among many
other bands. The recording will start in late July. The material so far is leaps
and bounds heavier than the last 4 records combined, definitely a return to the
bands roots but still with some ambiant suprises that break up all the speed
riffing. There seems to be an inspired vibe going on in the writing process that
is taking on a life of it's own.
Also, it looks still good for a June 22 release for our live dvd through
Cleopatra. And I was just informed that the Metallica tribute dvd that also has
Moterhead, Helmet, Death Angel and many other huge names will be probably
released in late September. As a reminder, Flotsam did an extremely killer
version of Damage Inc. for the record.
We are also of course on the BraveWords BloodyKnuckles 6pack show in Cleveland
the weekend of June 4, then on the San Antonio Metalfest ( Not a Jack Koshik
show) the next weekend, we play on June 11. There are many other very cool bands
on both events.
Long live Flotsam and Jetsam and longer live Metal. Burn all false music!!!!!!!"
Bravewords and Bloody Knuckles had this report on the record deal:
Crash Music, Inc. today announced that they have signed thrash metal legends FLOTSAM AND JETSAM to a two-album deal. The band which consists of Eric A.K. (vocals), Craig Nielsen (drums), Jason Ward (bass), Mark Simpson (guitar) and Ed Carlson (guitar) will hit the studio later this month to begin the recording process. Crash Music hopes to release the new album this fall or early 2005.
In other Flotsam News, in addition to playing at the Bravewords and Bloody Knuckles 6-Pack Weekend the weekend of June 4th, the band will be playing at the Texas Metal Fest on June 11th 2004 in San Antonio, Tx at Randy's Ballroom. Click here for details.
April 27, 2004
Craig Nielsen posted the following news on the message board today:
"We just got official word that the
DVD comes out on June 22. Also, that news I posted some time ago about a new
record deal is about to also become official, just a few more days. The Death
Angel/Flotsam shows were over the top performances. They were extremely cool and
we had much mutual respect flowing over that weekend. The next shows are a
festival in San Antonio in June with about 7 other bands including Reverend, but
the agent still has yet to 100% confirm. What IS totally set is the BraveWords,
BloodyKnuckles Festival in Cleveland in June. We are very happy to be on that
bill because of all the cool bands playing, and also because of the killer
support this band has received over the years from that magazine. I will post
again soon with any other developments, but rest assured that the new record
will leave all Flotsam fans with either wet undies, or a sticky sweatsock."
April 22, 2004
Flotsam and Jetsam will be appearing at the BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend II June 2-5, 2004, in Cleveland, Ohio. Bravewords posted the following regarding the news:
While the format was to include just 14 bands (seven
each day), BW&BK has decided to make the 2004 show ONE LOUDER, adding legendary
thrashers FLOTSAM AND JETSAM for a unique performance. It will be the band’s
ONLY
appearance east of the Mississippi, meaning this year’s BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend,
will be the Midwest or East coast fans’ lone chance to hear/see the band. The
BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend is held June 2-5 (warm-up shows on Wednesday & Thursday
require separate admission) at the Odeon, in Cleveland, Ohio.
Tickets are available through BraveWords.com, TicketMaster, The Odeon box office
and select music stores in the Cleveland metro area.
Other confirmed acts for BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend II
include:
DISMEMBER ONLY North American show, first in 4 years!
KATATONIA – ONLY American show, first in 4 years!
GRAVE DIGGER FIRST North American show of career!
PRIMAL FEAR ONLY North American appearance!
DORO ONLY North American appearance!
SHOK PARIS ONLY show before Bang Your Head, in Germany
BRAINSTORM FIRST North American show!
SEVEN WITCHES FIRST show for NEW, forthcoming disc!
E-FORCE (ex-VoiVod) ONLY North American appearance!
SHADOWKEEP FIRST/ONLY North American appearance!
DREAMS OF DAMNATION – ex Dark Angel/Abattoir members!
ION VEIN supporting the acclaimed “Reigning Memories”!
LILITU hear new material before it’s released!
HEADLINER (finally) ANNOUNCED SHORTLY!!
On Saturday afternoon, there will be acoustic performances, including Ben
Jackson (guitar) and Midnight (vocals) of the legendary CRIMSON GLORY, who will
perform an acoustic set of their best-known classics. James Rivera & Jack Frost,
from SEVEN WITCHES, will play an array of material, including songs by Helstar,
Frost’s solo effort and a few surprises.
Metal Church have been added as the show's headliner.
Check the BraveWords.com/6pack/ for more info, updates and hotels discounts
March 4, 2004
I have confirmed with Flotsam drummer, Craig Nielsen that the band have scheduled two live performances for April 9th and 10th at Chaser's in Scottsdale, AZ with Death Angel.
February 10, 2004
Craig Nielsen has revealed the forthcoming DVD's tracklisting:
1. No Place For Disgrace
2. Hammerhead
3. Secret Square
4. Escape From Within
5. Nothing To Say
6. Chemical Noose
7. Hard On You
8. Wading Through The Darkness
9. Swatting At Flies
10. Me
11. The Master Sleeps
12. Trash
13. Dig Me Up To Bury Me
The DVD is scheduled for late April/early May release.
February 8, 2004
According to Flotsam drummer, Craig Nielsen: "...The DVD will come out
late April/early May
and the Metallica tribute DVD should be scheduled for release very soon. A
couple of different bigger labels are looking at picking it up..." More
details on both releases will be posted as they are received. Craig also
eluded to some more news forthcoming which will be posted when it comes in.
December 8, 2003
Craig Nielsen posted the following update on the message board:
"Sorry for not posting in a while......Actually the DVD is still in the hands of
the company who filmed it, Ultrafilms. They have said no less that 6 different
dates it was to be delivered to the label. They are a fairly hot company right
now, and from what I can tell they have more work than they can handle for their
size and this is maybe why it has been slow in getting wrapped up. They have had
the master recording for over 3 months now and the latest date of delivery to
the label was sometime next week. This has been very frustrating to the band,
but from what they have told me personally, it is coming out great. As far as
the Metallica tribute DVD, Bob Kulick has informed us that they have decided to
release it through an as yet undisclosed label they are in the final stages of
negotiation with, a label much bigger than the one it was originally intended
for, Cleopatra. Flotsam still has the lead track on it, Damage Inc.,but of
course that could change. Like I've said before, it came out better than I ever
imagined....A.K. nailed it in less than 2 studio hours. The energy on it comes
all the way across. As far as live shows, there isnt much point until the DVD is
released, which at this rate looks to be at least late March."
September 27, 2003
Craig Nielsen posted the following update on the message board on 9/9/2003:
"Whats up Metal People? Yes we are on the Dwell in Darkness show here in Phoenix, and the band looks forward to Old Schooling some young hopefuls that may be out there. Also, the live DVD is mixed and ready to be sent to the label which will happen this week.............it sounds ####ing great. And we leave tomorrow for California to film and track the Metallica tribute DVD on Cleopatra. We were originally schedualled to do it in July, but opted to do it now so we could give it the proper Flots treatment..............."
Flotsam and Jetsam are headlining the Dwell in Darkness in Phoenix, AZ at Minder Binders. Their performance will be Saturday November 8th. For information visit http://www.smnnews.com/dwellindarkness/
July 14, 2003
From the mouth of Craig Nielsen as posted on the message board right here at www.flotsam-and-jetsam.com on July 10:
"Just wanted to post this now that the details have been confirmed. The band will be recording a song for the upcoming Metallica tribute DVD being made through Cleopatra Records with Bob Kulick producing. This will be the second such project for the label, and as you may already know, Eric A.K. was on the first one doing "Battery" with Dave Lombardo on drums, Trujillo on bass and Rocky/Suicidal Tendancies on guitar. This time around Flotsam and Jetsam will perform "Damage Inc." and judging from rehearsal it's going to phucking crush. There will be a film crew present during the recording to provide footage for the DVD. So this makes 2 DVD's in one weekend for the band................long live thrash!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
May 29, 2003
From the mouth of Craig Nielsen as posted on the message board right here at www.flotsam-and-jetsam.com:
"Now that the deal is signed I can formally say that the band, including Eric
A.K., have been offered and have accepted to do this thing this summer. It will
be on Cleopatra Records. The band is very into this idea and has been something
we had always wanted to do, even if it were just in CD format. In fact we
pitched the "live" idea to Metal Blade instead of "My God" a couple of years ago
and they have had historically a real bad experience with live CD's so they
passed. This will be the long sought missing link for this band, and we hope and
believe it will capture the 100% balls out effort we put into every one of our
live shows. I'll post later with more details...........Flots Til Your cock rots
off............."
Craig also has announced the upcoming shows involved in the making of this live CD/DVD:
"The first show we play will be the one recorded, in Phoenix at the Bash on Ash (
Tempe ) on July 18, then we do West L.A. at the Fox Club on the 19th, then
Galaxy Theater in Anaheim on the 20th. The film crew will probably go to Anaheim
also for some extra footage."
More details will be posted as they become available.
May 11, 2003
According to Craig Nielsen the band have a live CD/DVD in the works. Right now they are working out the legal details of obtaining legal rights from former record labels to include those songs on the album. They are also in the process of booking the shows to record for the CD/DVD. Right now, it looks like the front runner location for the shows will be Phoenix, AZ. Also, according to Craig, Eric A.K. is looking forward to it as well. More details as they become available...
April 27, 2003
Not too much new band news of late. Flotsam and Jetsam are still laying relatively low these days. In a recent
interview, however, Jason Newsted indicated that he would like to reunite with Flotsam. No official word from
Flotsam and Jetsam on Newsted's remarks but since the band have always had a good relationship with Newsted I
would think they would be open to it as well. Craig Nielsen had this to say about it, "I think Newsted has too
much on his plate right now to even think seriously about it....." This is definitley true as Newsted is currently on
tour with Voivod. Voivod will also be on this year's Ozzfest tour where Jason Newsted will be doing double duty with
Voivod and Ozzy Osbourne. Jason is also very much involved in his own Chophouse Records. As you can see, Newsted does
indeed have quite a full plate, putting any possible Flotsam reunion in the distant future, if at all.
In web site news, we have moved to a new server and given the entire site an overhaul. We have said goodbye once again
to Geocities. The sound and video clips are back online and are also being revamped. Be sure to check out the new site.
Flots til death!
February 1, 2003
Got an update from Craig Nielsen last night. No F&J; news, but Jason
Ward has been asked to fill in on bass for Halford at their show tonight in Las
Vegas and tomorrow night at the Anaheim House of Blues on Sunday, then he will
go to Japan for some shows there. No word as to what happened to their bassist
and why Jason is filling in. I was told that his is not a permanent situation,
however.
Craig also told me that he may be playing on the upcoming Jack Frost solo
record. Jack Frost is currently a member of Savatage and Seven Witches. Nothing
is official or finalized as of yet but we should know something sometime next
week.
December 22, 2002
No new band news in a while. The members of
Flotsam are still laying low. Rest assured that any new developments will be
posted as they are received.
With that said, happy holidays to all. I'm in negotiations to try to make some
things happen for the web site during the next year. One of them is to get the
sound and video clips back online. Also, time permitting, a possible complete
redesign of the site. So keep your fingers crossed and keep checking the page.
October 5, 2002
July 26, 2002
July 16, 2002
October 30, 2001
October 15, 2001
From www.bravewords.com comest he following report:
Due to dismal attendance, the band decided to forego the remaining dates of the
Flotsam & Jetsam tour. The final performance was at The Balcony, in
Philadelphia, PA. The status of the band is unknown, but substitute vocalist,
James Rivera, heads back to Texas, to continue working on the next Helstar
record and a rumored project with Jack Frost (Savatage/Seven Witches) and
several of his newfound buddies in Flotsam.
Craig Nielsen posted the following statment on the Flotsam and Jetsam Message
Board:
As you have now heard, James Rivera has delivered the goods like no other
could have. The dude can not only sing his ass and balls off, but may be one of
the very coolest m.f.'s Ive ever met. With that said, here is the latest. First,
the shows in Aurora, Lansing, Clinton and Independence will go on as planned.
While it is true that attendance mostly sucked, except for El Paso. Ft.
Lauderdale, and maybe 2 others, the same can be said for EVERY single tour out
there right now, relative to what was expected. Pantara is down $ 40,000 from
projections, Skid Row only brought 160 people to Tampa, Sebation Bach brought 30
to Springfield, West Virginia, Wasp is getting killed and taking mass hits every
show as far as not meetng prior years numbers. This is just a small handfull of
exmples. Tours are cancelling left and right here and overseas every week. The
war and shitty economy have everyone scared shitless apparantly, and people are
staying home and saving cash. Every single promoter in every market told me,the
tour manager and as such the one who deals with them, the exact same sad story.
Also, who the #### goes out nowadays without a 2,3,or 4 band package? Nobody
will, and we did anyway. Motive, while being a very good band, is relatively
unknown outside of Phoenix, and we knew it was going to hurt us, but we didnt
give a shit. We tour for the diehards. Like Mike Piazza who drove an hour out of
his way to the gig in New Jersey and was such a fan, asked us if he could sing
"Me" from Drift with us which was some of the coolest shit Ive ever
been a part of. It was covered by every outlet you can think of, including even
Sports Illustrated. And I think I can honestly say we are playing as tight as a
nuns asshole and are having so much ####ing fun we could really give a shit
about who is not there. For those who are, I can guarantee they are going home
thinking they just saw one of the most aggressive, powerful metal shows of their
lives. I gotta go now and finish partying my ass off with the true Flotsam
freaks on our 45 foot bus, which sadly may have to be sent off so we can
actually come home with some weed money. Flots Out!!
October 3, 2001
I apologize for not updating the site sooner. Life's
been very busy lately. The following is a news bit that Jason Ward sent me which
originated from knac.com:
Helstar/Destiny's End Frontman James Rivera Joins Flotsam And Jetsam
Frank Meyer, Managing Editor
Tuesday, September 04, 2001 03:40 PM
Flotsam And Jetsam Carry On With New Vocalist James Rivera
Never a band to be held back by line-ups changes, Arizona metal legends Flotsam
And Jetsam will continue with their scheduled U.S. tour as planned with metal
underground vet James Rivera taking over for recently departed frontman Eric AK.
Rivera is best known for his work with Helstar and Destiny's End. The trek will
continue as planned beginning in Dallas, TX on September 28th. Drummer Craig
Neilson enthuses, "James is a very good choice because of his incredible
vocal range, tons of stage experience, and is one of the truest hardcore Flotsam
fans of all time." After being in Flotsam and Jetsam for almost 20 years,
Eric decided to stop touring with the band. Citing personal reasons, Erik will
dedicate more time to his family. He will record with the band if and when there
are any new releases if they choose to take him up on the offer. "I have
been honored to play with one of the best metal bands in the world and with one
of the most uniquely talented singers there ever was... I never had any static
of real significance with Eric at any time" "We have had a constant
respect for each other for the four and a half years we have known each
other," adds Neilson. "I am just a little, no a lot, more pissed off
then the rest because of the daily work I have put into this tour for three
months."
Complete list of tour dates can be found in the tour section of the web site.
August 22, 2001
In a major development, Eric AK has left Flotsam and
Jetsam. Eric posted the following message on the message board at http://www.flotsam-and-jetsam.com
on 8/18/2001:
"RETIREMENT"
There are many reasons for me to retire from the metal industry. So lets start
off with the facts. I've been in FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, for almost 20 years. I've
put my heart and soul into 8 albums and I'm really proud of almost every song on
those records. My first thought every morning and my last thought every night
has been about how lucky I am to be where I am and how cool it is to be able to
sing for Flotsam and Jetsam. I have always believed that Flots was good enough
to at least make a modest living by selling records and performing live shows
but this is not the case. We've done approximately one tour per album. Thats
eight, maybe nine, tours since 1985. On each tour I've been paid enough to
survive which is fine. No complaints about that. However, these
"tours" are so very small and far between. I have spent 9 or 10 months
out of each of those 19 years digging ditches, setting tile, hooking up cable,
plumbing, bartending, working at Taco Bell, and whatever it takes to stay alive
because this industry, that I'm told is so great, has failed me and it has
failed my brothers.
We never asked for limos or big houses, or even lots of money. All we wanted was
to make a modest living so we could continue making records and performing live.
And we have been able to perform all we want and record at least once a year but
only at the cost of having no life other than the three months a year on the
road. It's pretty hard to keep life in a waiting position. Having 10 months at
home with nothing to do except struggling to make enough to feed a family will
lead you to one of two places: either you become a talented but worthless drug
addict or you accumulate an actual life. I have created over the years a very
nice little family life for myself and for my wife and children which has become
extremely more important than playing metal and partying on the road. I have
always wanted to spend my life on a tour bus. I have never wanted to be
responsible for an entire family. But now that I've had both, I can see what is
truly important in life. (And ####in' stupid chicks on the back of the bus just
doesn't hold a candle to hearing the phrase, "Daddy, will you play with
me?")
The Metal Industry, has beaten me. I'm screaming "uncle." But the
Music Industry, has not even met me yet and they'd all better look the #### out.
Eric AK is on a mission. On to bigger and better things. In my opinion, there is
no better metal band than Flotsam and Jetsam. That is why this whole thing is so
damn frustrating. Why couldn't it just pay off once or twice? Anyway, I have no
worries about the rest of the band; they are without a doubt some of the most
talented musicians I have ever met. I'm sure they will do just fine on their
own. I would like to thank all the fans who have bought records, even though
there aren't very many of you. You are die hard and loyal and appreciated. I'd
also like to thank Flots for the school of hard knocks education and the years
of more fun than any five men should have.
After this letter is posted, you will probably be hearing some nasty things from
a couple of guys in the band. This is to be expected. They are running on almost
the same frustration I am and their anger is now directed towards me. They truly
are a good bunch of nuts and eventually, they'll get over it.
FLOTS 'TIL YOU CAN'T HANDLE IT NO MORE...
ERIC AK 8/18/2001
The band are still planning on carrying on with the already booked US tour
dates. The frontrunner for the vocalist position is James Rivera of Helstar/Destiny's
End fame.
No word on plans beyond the tour but Flots drummer Craig Nielsen has been
keeping me posted as well as posting updates of his own in the message board.
I'll post the latest information as I receive it.
July 25, 2001
Flotsam and Jetsam have been added to Chuck Billy's Thrash of the Titans benefit concert. They will be taking Laaz Rockit's place as they have opted not to participate. Other bands at the event are Anthrax, Exodus, Heathen, Vio-Lence, Forbidden Evil, Death Angel, S.O.D., and Legacy. The show is August 11, 2001 at the maritime Hall in San Francisco, CA. I believe this event is already sold out. For complete details check the official website for the event at http://www.thrashofthetitans.com
The band will also be playing the Ultra Sound 2001 metal conference on September 9, 2001. This event will be held at the Burbank Hilton in Burbank, CA. Other bands appearing are Steel Prophet, Prototype, Lana Lane, Westworld, and many others. Check the event's offical website at http://heavyharmonies.com/cgi-bin/ultrasound/home.cgi for complete details.
Other tour dates can be found on the Tour Dates page of the flotsam-and-jetsam.com website.
July 9, 2001
Some Flots tour dates are now being made available. Check the tour section of the website for the complete listing. More should be added.
In web site news, Listbot, the service that delivers the email news updates is discontinuing their service. I will be switching to another list service soon. I will try to subscribe everyone on the list manually to the new list to make it easy on you guys and send out a test message soon.
May 25, 2001
The new album, "My God" was released on 5/22/2001.
According to Mark Simpson incorrect information was given about the AOL chat and it will be rescheduled. I'll post details as I get them.
May 9, 2001
Business travel has delayed site updates the past month or so but in the old news is better than no news department, the new album, "My God" will be in stores May 22 (Not April 22 as earlier reported).
Mark Simpson will be doing several online events to coincide with the release:
May 22 2pm PST at www.knac.com
May 23 4pm PST at www.usatoday.com
May 24 6pm PST at www.aol.com
Keyword: Rockchat
March 18, 2001
In a www.flotsam-and-jetsam.com exclusive we have, in the sounds section, a brand new MP3 of the hidden track from the forthcoming album, My God. The track is an acoustic version of the track Trash. The album is scheduled for release on April 22nd.
March 9, 2001
According to Jason Ward the release date for the new album, My God is April 22nd.
Also, it is confirmed, Flots will be playing the April 7th date at the Metal Meltdown III in NJ.
March 5, 2001
Check out KNAC.COM for a feature article from the studio with F&J. The article is well done and gives some details of the upcoming album, My God. The address for the article is http://www.knac.com/Feat_Page?featureID=10615.
March 4, 2001
The band will be playing the Metal Meltdown III at the Convention Hall in Asbury Park, NJ. The Metal Meltdown is scheduled for April 6th and 7th 2001. I haven't been able to confirm which date Flotsam is playing. For more information check out http://www.metalfest.com.
In site news, I have replaced the message board with a new one. The company that hosted the previous board was getting out of the message board business and was going to be shutting down all of their message boards.
February 20, 2001
From Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles (http://www.bravewords.com)
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM - Oh My God!
It's official, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM's forthcoming album WILL be titled My God. The album contains 11 songs plus one hidden track which will
be an acoustic version of a song on the album. The band promises that "anybody disappointed with the last two
CDs have nothing to fear, this is a classic metal album that sounds fresh. The last two CDs were not a mistake, but just the wrong direction for the
band." They have five "practice" gigs lined-up : March 22 San Diego, March 23 Los Angeles (Reseda), March 24th Anaheim, April 6 Voo Doo Lounge/ Queens
NY and April 7th Metal Meltdown in NJ.
February 8, 2001
Check out the Metal Sludge web site at http://www.metal-sludge.com where Jason Ward answers their 20 Quesions.
Also check out http://www.rockreunion.com for a brand new interview with Jason Ward. Jason speaks about the upcoming album, which he promises will NOT be called Obsessive Repulsive. He also provides a track listing as follows:
1.
Dig Me Up To Bury Me
2. Keep Breathing
3. Camera Eye
4. Weather To Do
5. Trash
6. Praise
7. My God (more than likely the title track)
8. Nothing To Say
9. Frustrate
10. Learn To Dance
11. Killing Time
12. I.A.M.H.
Jason says that the album will be out by June.
Visit Rock Reunion's web site for the full interview.
Also there are now sound clips of Eric A.K.'s country music project at http://www.iuma.com/preview/theakcorral/.
January 21, 2001
Since the band have been working on the new album not much new news has surfaced the past few months. No word on a release date as of yet.
But in the old news is better than no news department. Some of you may already have known about Eric A.K.'s country music project. Well it's been available for some time now and you can get all of the details at But in the old news is better than no news department. Some of you may already have known about Eric A.K.'s country music project. Well it's been available for some time now and you can get all of the details at http://www.iuma.com/preview/theakcorral/. Prices are: $10.00 US plus $2.00 shipping and handling for a grand total of $12.00 US. For more info, Email KILLCRUSHMURDER@AOL.com.
In related Flots news. Former bassist Jason Newsted has left Metallica.
October 8, 2000
The band will start recording their new album, tentatively titled Obsessive Repulsive, on October 16th, with Bill Metoyer.
September 9, 2000
Due to some unavoidable delays the band won't be heading into the studio to start recording until sometime in October. No word on a possible release date.
July 17, 2000
The band will be heading into the studio in a couple of weeks to start recording the new album. Word is that it will be worth waiting for.
In site news, you may have noticed the sound and video clips have been offline for a little over a week. I hope to have all of them back up by the end of the week so keep checking.
June 4, 2000
According to Jason ward the band are in "conceptual mode for the new record." No word on any possible release date.
May 28, 2000
Some of you may have experienced the web site being unavailable over this past weekend. Due to problems with my web hosting account my entire account had to be moved to a new server and I was unable to get the entire site moved until today.
If you experience any broken links or abnormal functionality please let me know so I can rectify it.
April 1, 2000
The band have a new email address. The new address is flojet@mindspring.com. All band contact and fan club inquiries should be directed to this address.
March 20, 2000
MAJOR FLOTSAM UPDATE:
Departed Flotsam guitarist Mark Simpson is back! Mark has rejoined Flotsam and Jetsam and will be playing upcoming shows and entering the studio with the band shortly. It appears that Mike Gilbert is now out of the picture. Obviously the previous report from Metal Blade Records was outdated, but this report comes straight from the band themselves.
The band, featuring Mark, will be playing a show Saturday April 8th at The Green Room in Tempe,AZ.
March 13, 2000
Sorry for the lack of news so far this year, haven't heard anything from the band in quite a while. The following was posted at the Metal Blade Records web site, however:
"FLOTSAM AND JETSAM have announced original guitar play Mike Gilbert is back in the band. Mike left after the recording of the "High" record, and was replaced by Mark Simpson. Mark recently joined the Lynch Mob, and is currently touring with them. When Gilbert heard Mark was leaving, he called up the guys and asked if he could rejoin the band. Mike will be playing in the upcoming shows begging with the October 23rd date in Las Vegas, and will contribute to their upcoming album, which is scheduled to begin recording in February 2000."
December 27, 1999
The web page has been given an overhaul for the new year and new millennium. Along with a new look comes a message board where you can have public discussions about the band. Also added is a real-time chat room where you can talk live with other flots fans. Several more frills are in the works so be on the lookout.
December 22, 1999
I spoke with Ed Carlson and have been told that the next album has been pushed back until probably Summer of 2000. They are taking extra time on this album and he says it should be one of their best albums. Ed, Jason, and an unnamed collaborator have been working on new material that Ed says is totally brutal. He says the new music will be really heavy but they are going to get "kooky" on this one. So there you have it, straight from the source.
December 13, 1999
According to the band they will not be holding auditions for the vacant
guitar spot after all. They have someone in mind but have made no official
announcement as of yet.
December 5, 1999
I've just been informed that there will be a show December 11th at the Mason Jar in Phoenix, AZ.
November 28, 1999
The December 15th show in Kingman, AZ is not going to happen.
The fan club is being rejuvenated as we speak. Lot's of neat things are being planned for the fan club. The fan club has experienced much disarray this past year resulting in many people possibly being ripped off. This was due to the transition that took place after the dismissal of their previous manager. All of this was beyond the band's control and they offer their sincerest apologies to all that were affected by this. They are working, however, to get the fan club back up and better than ever.
All fan club inquiries should be emailed to flojet@hotmail.com
Also in the works in the possibility of offering Flotsam and Jetsam merchandise for sell on the web. This would be t-shirts, CDs, etc. Nothing definite as of yet but be on the lookout.
November 18, 1999
Mike Gilbert's last show filling in for the departed Mark Simpson will
be December 15 in Kingman, AZ. No word on a permanent replacement
for Mark.
November 2, 1999
The reason Mike Gilbert was filling in for the recent shows is that Mark Simpson has left the
band to join George Lynch's band Lynch Mob. Mike isn't back permanently and the spot will probably
be filled via auditions. More details will be posted as I get them.
October 31, 1999
Have gotten some reports that the band are playing some sporadic shows, the last of which I was told about being Nov. 5th in San Antonio. According to the report ex-guitarist Mike
Gilbert will be filling in. I don't have any details on any of this but will post any if and when I do.
October 3, 1999
Haven't updated the news section since moving the web page, sorry for the delays. But of course the page has been moved and the contest
had a tremdous response. The winners have been selected and notified but haven't responded yet. I'll post the winners when I get
responses from them. I still have some small bugs to finish fixing with the page but hopefully everything will be 100% soon.
In band news, work has begun on the next album. I haven't gotten a update from the band lately but I have been informed that work
has begun on the follow-up to "Unnatural Selection."
August 17, 1999
Work, night classes, and an auto accident have delayed work on getting the site moved to the new server and new URL, http://www.geocities.com/nanoman2, but expect a full move complete with some sort of contest and other frills within the next 2 weeks.
In band news, I've had several inquiries about the address for the Flotsam fan club. When the band severed ties with former manager Eric Braverman they lost access to the PO box that had been used for the fan club. The band have asked that all fan club related questions and info on joining be directed to their email address flojet@hotmail.com
Also got word from Craig Neilsen that the Milwaukee Metal Fest show went really well and the guys had a blast doing it. I haven't received any current tour info.
July 21, 1999
The Flotsam and Jetam web page is currently in the process of being moved to a new server. You may experience some degradation in functionality during this move so please bear with us. The url www.geocities.com/nanoman2 is now set up to point to the new server, however, since the page hasn't been moved yet the full page is only accessible via the Geocities address
(http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Palms/9054/).
May 23, 1999
Flotsam will be playing at this year's Milwaukee Metalfest. Complete details about the event follows.
MILWAUKEE METALFEST XIII
When: Friday and Saturday, July 30 and 31, 1999. The shows will run 4 PM - 1 AM on Friday and 11 AM - 1 AM Saturday.
Where: Eagles Auditorium/The Rave Nightclub Complex, Milwaukee, WI
Tickets: $50 for a two-day pass or $30 for single-day admission. Tickets can be purchased through
TicketMaster; Rave Box Office; TicketMaster Online - www.ticketmaster.com; Charge By Phone (414) 276-4545; Relapse Records (800) 303-0606,
www.relapse.com; Night Fall Records in Minneapolis (612)724-8166 and Chicago (773) 725-3530; or by sending a check or money order to payable to Jack Koshick Presents and a self-addressed stamped envelope
to: Metalfest XIII, 1626 N. Prospect Ave., Suite 1801, Milwaukee, WI 53202.
Bands: Headliners for this year's event are CRADLE OF FILTH, MORBID ANGEL, MANOWAR and MACHINE HEAD. More than 120 bands from throughout the world will perform on three stages including: WITCHERY, NEVERMORE,
MARDUK, IN FLAMES, ANGRA, ICED EARTH, SATRYICON, THE GATHERING, THE MISFITS,
MADBALL, SINISTER, USURPER, EARTH CRISIS, MENTAL HOME, GORGUTS, MONSTROSITY,
DEFILED, DIVINE EMPIRE, SOLITUDE AETURNUS, IMMOLATION, ROTTING CHRIST, NILE, INCANTATION,
LUNGBRUSH, HATEBREED, ANAL BLAST, INCANTATION, PISSING RAZORS, MORTICIAN, TWIN OBSCENITY,
KRISIUN, CENTURIAN, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, NASUM, MORGION, CHASM, JUNGLE ROT, CRIMINAL, ONE KING DOWN, E TOWN CONCRETE, SHUTDOWN, LIVING SACRIFICE, INDECISION, INTERNAL BLEEDING, DYING FETUS, INFUSION,
SOLUS, MIDIAN, IMMORTAL CRINGE, MONSTER X, STRETCHER, ENTORTUREMENT, NATIVE BLOOD, WYKKED
WYTCH, AVERSE SEFIRA, ST. MADNESS, ROGUE, INCARRION, RARE FORM, BLUDGEON TO DEATH, MYSELF AM HELL,
VORE, DYSPHORIA, SOMNUS, JESUS RIDES A RIKSHA, WITCHMOON, SHERE KHAN, ANONYMOUS, LEAD, EMBER,
WOLFTHORNE, PESSIMIST, NOCTUARY, WITHERED EARTH, AT ANY COST,
GREY SKIES FALLEN, DEADEN, C4, IMPALER, OPAQUE, LORD OF ALL DESIRES and a Relapse Records showcase.
May 16, 1999
The Flotsam and Jetsam Web Page is now accessible via the URL http://www.geocities.com/nanoman2 which should be a lot easier to remember than the Geocities address. The Geocities address is still accessible also, however.
May 9, 1999
A news update straight from the mouth of Jason Ward:
"Fan club people that were somehow lost in the shuffle of getting rid of our old manager will be taken care of this month. A number of fan club members have written in saying they did not recieve anything. You will not be forgotten. Flotsam intends on sending out Complimentary tour shirts to those who were overlooked.
New Flotsam merchandise will soon be available for mail order over the net so keep checking on this site for details."
Also, believe it or not, the current issue of Hit Parader Magazine (June 1999) has a short article on Flotsam and Jetsam in their "Shooting Stars" column.
A complete list of upcoming tour dates is available in the Tour section
April 4, 1999
Old news is better than no news I guess. The band have parted with long-time manager Eric
Braverman.
There are also some new tour dates on the tour page.
March 3, 1999
The show March 6th in Tuscon, AZ will be at The Rialto Theatre. There is also a show March 5th at the Mill Avenue Sports Rock Cafe in Phoenix, AZ.
February 17, 1999
Got a message from Mark Simpson indicating that their will be a show this Friday, February 19th, at Brick By Brick in San Diego. I'm not sure at this time if the show is F&J; or the Frank White side project, but I will confirm which and update this.
Other upcoming Flotsam shows are March 5th at the Mill Avenue Sports Rock Cafe in Phoenix, Az and March 6 in
Tuscon, Arizona at a as of yet unconfirmed location.
February 9, 1999
The latest issue of Metal Edge Magazine (May 1999) contains an article on the band. Pick it up at your local
newstand.
February 7, 1999
Finally got sound clips from the new album up in the Sounds Section. There are 5 clips available in real audio format.
January 26, 1999
The new album, Unnatural Selection is released today, go out and buy a copy!
December 21, 1998
According to Mark Simpson Flotsam will be playing January 16th and 17th at the Mason Jar in Phoenix, AZ with fellow Arizonians Sacred Reich.
December 16, 1998
Frank White and the Spades, side project of Mark Simpson and Jason Ward, will be playing a show at The Mason Jar in Phoenix, AZ on either the 1st or 2nd of January. Mark was not sure of the exact date yet but I will try to confirm it shortly. He describes the band as "wacky and annoying." The band also features Kelly Smith. Mark sent me a sound clip of them that is now in the sounds section of the page.
November 20, 1998
Good news for all of you who have been waiting patiently for fan club materials. Judith
Venesky, who was over the fan club up until several months ago, is back in charge. She is expecting to receive the fan club stuff this week and should be able to get it out to the fans shortly. She offers her sincere apology to all who have been waiting a long time.
Also, the new album cover is here! Check it out on the Unnatural Selection Page.
November 9, 1998
According to the Metal Blade Records web site, the North American release date for the new album is January 26, 1999. I wouldn't be surprised if this changes, however. As earlier reported the album will be titled Unatural Selection.
November 6, 1998
Two new concert dates have been added:
November 20th at the Mason Jar in Phoenix, AZ
November 21st at Pleasures in Pasadena, CA
See the tour section for complete concert listings.
November 5, 1998
The show this weekend, November 6th at the Voodoo Lounge in Queens, NY has been cancelled.
October 21, 1998
Metal Edge is reporting that former Flotsam and Jetsam drummer Kelly Smith is getting married this month. The article also says that Smith, along with former Flotsam guitarist Mike Gilbert have formed a new band which they will get started in November.
September 28, 1998
Got some updated tour information from Mark Simpson. Added the following show: Oct 15---Mill Ave. Sport rock cafe.
Phx,AZ. Check the tour section for full tour information.
Also was told that the album artwork and new publicity band photos will be sent soon so watch the page for these.
Lastly, I've set up a shorter, easier to remember virtual forwarding URL for the site. The site is still at the same server and still has the URL http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Palms/9054, but can now be accessed by the URL http://come.to/FlotsamAndJetsam Both addresses work and will get you to the same place.
September 21, 1998
Word from the Flots camp says that Metal Blade has pushed the new album's release date up to January '99.
September 6, 1998
Got some updated tour info from Mark Simpson, check the Tour Dates section for details.
August 11, 1998
Mark Simpson was kind enough to pass along some tour dates. These dates are all West Coast stops. Check the Tour Dates Section for details.
July 21, 1998
According to Mark Simpson, Flotsam's new guitarist, the new album, titled "Unnatural Selection," will contain 10 slamming tracks. He describes them as very different, very heavy, but very Flotsam.
He also says thet Eric's vocals are extremely pissed off with major attittude.
He quotes some song titles as "Fuckers," "Chemical Noose," and "Way to Go."
They have just finished mixing the album with mastering to take place this week.
The album is due out at the end of October or early November.
Mark also says that the album cover will be hillarious but has no details yet.
June 26, 1998
According to the Metal Blade web site the new album will be titled "Unnatural Selection."
June 4, 1998
I received a small update from the flots camp yesterday. All is going well in the studio. They have a few more weeks more of work to do on the album. I was also told that the new album has a slightly different feel to it, owing to the new band members, but I was assured it will still be 100% Flotsam.
May 30, 1998
Looks like the band are shooting for an October release for the new album which they are currently working on.
April 12, 1998
Haven't heard from the band in a little while but according the Metal Blade web page the guys are going into the studio this month to start work on the new album. I'll post more details as soon as I get an update from Jason Ward.
February 17, 1998
Apparently the band will be performing a show on Friday February, 27 at 8:00pm at the Billboard Live in Los Angeles, CA. Tickets are available through
Ticketmaster.
February 7, 1998
An update straight from Jason Ward himself. Looks like the band will start writing for the next album and should enter the studio in May. No projected release date yet.
December 19, 1997
The guys have recorded a new video for the song "Monster" for which one video has been done already. The new version of the video features new members Craig Nielsen and Mark Simpson. The clip also features authentic Civil War reenactors.
While no tour information is available at the moment, there will likely be more U.S. dates in December as well as January and February, which may also take them into Brazil. King Diamond has also expressed interest in having the guys tour with him in late Fevruary/early March. I'll post any tour dates as soon as I receive them.
Jason, Ed, Mark, and some of their crew members will do a show as Dumb Ol' Boys in Phoenix, AZ on Christmas Eve.
Work on the next album will probably start mid '98.
November 11, 1997
Flotsam ends their US tour tonight. Those of you in Europe be on the lookout, the tour with Anvil and Exciter kicks off November 15. Check the Tour Dates section for a show in your area.
October 2, 1997
From the pages of Metal Edge Magazine comes an update on former Flots drummer Kelly Smith. Kelly says of his current status that he's "taking a break to get redirected, more focused on my relationship with my drums. I got sidetracked by fame/money/tring to be somebody. I treated people wrong and it was because I lost what I came here for, the music." He can be reached online at bongoman@amug.org
As for new drummer Craig Neilsen and new guitarist Mark T. Simpson, I had the extreme pleasure of seeing the band live Sept. 26 in Spartanburg, SC and hung out with them before and after the show. The two new guys fit in the band very well and are very good players. Be sure to catch 'em in your area.
September 6, 1997
The North American tour dates have been updated. Many new dates added as well as some changes to existing dates. Many west coast dates added. Check the tour page for these updated listings.
August 22, 1997
European tour dates confirmed, check the tour dates page for dates/cities/venues!
August 16, 1997
US Tour dates announced! Click here to see the tour info!
August 14, 1997
The band played some shows in LA on August 8 and 9th. Still waiting for
the full tour itinerary.
July 7, 1997
Auditions are over. The new members of Flotsam and Jetsam are Mark T. Simpson
on guitar and Craig Neilsen on drums. Mark has been playing in Jason Ward's
side project FRANK WHITE AND THE SPADES for the last 2 years. Craig comes from
the band Nevermore.
The tour will start August 1 in Arizona with upstarts Killing Culture. I will
post the complete tour itinerary as soon as I recieve it.
June 17, 1997
Mike Gilbert is no longer with the band. No details at the
moment but the band are auditioning replacements for both he
and Kelly Smith.
June 3rd, 1997
"High" hits the US! Go buy it! Sound clips from "High" as well as their
other albums can be found HERE!
May 20, 1997
The new album is out (well, at least in Europe!) The band have graced
me with a advance copy so for a full review click HERE
May 11, 1997
Ed is leaving for Europe on Sunday, May 11, plunging head-first into a month-long promotional
tour. He will be visiting 5 (or 6) countries to spread the Flots! All of you Europeans be on
the lookout!
Also, to clear something up, the release date of May 20th is the international
release date. Expect to see the new album stateside June 3rd. This is direct
from the horse's mouth (Jason Ward).
May 1, 1997
The guys are filming an MTV-worthy video for the first single from
the new album, "High", called "Monster." The song rules, (of course)
so expect the usual onslaught of harsh imagery.
April 17, 1997
It seems that drummer Kelly Smith has left the band to pursue
other interests. As far as I know no replacement has been named yet.
Stay tuned for further updates.
March 21, 1997
The band have signed a long term deal with original label Metal
Blade and are recording Album number six. The album will be
called "High" and is scheduled for release on May 20th.
