Former TROUBLE and BLACKFINGER frontman Eric Wagner is producing the new album from the Chicago, Illinois-based metal band SMASH CORPS, entitled "Rotten To The Corps". The CD is tentatively due this summer.

The band states in its official bio, "SMASH CORPS started out as a recording project.

"Most of us have known each other for years and have played in various bands together.

"When the recording was done, we decided to see how it came across live. The response was overwhelming from new and old fans alike.

"We are now looking for a record deal and working on new material for the next recording.

"We are metal artists looking to bridge the gap between all the genres. We would like to see metal music unified instead of segregated."

SMASH CORPS is:

Ed Brongiel - Lead Guitar, Vocals
Tim Smith - Vocals
Travis Williams - Bass
Kevin Nelson - Lead Guitar
Toby Nickels - Drums

For more information, visit www.myspace.com/smashcorps.

Chicago prog-thrashers TRIALS have parted ways with drummer Sasha Horn (NOVEMBERS DOOM) and replaced him with Adam Kopecky (also of 3 RING FUNERAL).

Commented the band: "We have been rehearsing with Adam for a couple of weeks now, and things are already sounding amazing. We will begin playing live again shortly, and trust us, you will not be disappointed.

"We'd also like to thank Sasha Horn for his time with the band and what he contributed to our music. We wish him the best of luck with his other projects. In the meantime, his drumming will still be heard on our upcoming full length debut — and we'll have some more information on that in the very near future..."