Steven “Thee Slayer Hippy” Hanford, Drummer for Poison Idea, Has Died at Age 50


Sad news to report as Steven “Thee Hippy” Hanford, drummer for bands like Poison Idea, Fetish and Accüsed A.D., has died at the age of 50. The cause of Hanford’s death due to a heart attack. Fetish’s label, Blackhouse Records, confirmed the news of Hanford’s death. “The world just lost a pretty amazing person today. Unreal,” the label said in an Instagram post. “Steve’s larger than life personality, let alone his drumming and producing work over the years was something of legend, unforgettable and historic to say the very least.” A GoFundMe has been set up for Hanford’s family. Best known for his work in Poison Idea, Hanford joined the band in 1987 ahead of their second album before leaving at the beginning of the century. In 2008, Hanford was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison after being convicted of armed robberies. While in prison, he turned his life around. We send our condolences out to his family, friends, and fans at this time. Continue reading


REVIEW: Maryland Deathfest 2019


Maryland Deathfest held their annual festival in the venerable city of Baltimore a few weeks back. The four-day is one of the best-run independent underground metal festivals in the world. As usual Ghost Cult was on hand for the festivities, with Hillarie Jason bringing you her spectacular eye on bands through photos. Continue reading


Maryland Deathfest 2019 Announces Daily Lineups, All Tickets On Sale


Maryland Deathfest has announced their daily lineups for the 2019 festival. Last week they made their “round two” announcement, but “a handful of bands will be announced this week to wrap up the billing”. All ticket options are now on sale at the link below. Continue reading


Maryland Deathfest 2019 Books Borknagar, Unleashed, Voivod, Anaal Nathrakh, Churchburn And More


Maryland Deathfest has added a plethora of new bands to the 2019 festival. Borknagar, Unleashed, and Benediction will all play Exclusive USA shows at the fest and joining them are Voivod, Anaal Nathrakh, Churchburn, Revenge, Primitive Man, Spectral Voice, Neckbeard Deathcamp and many more. Usually, round two is the “final announcement for MDF, but “a handful of bands will be announced next week to wrap up the billing”. All ticket options are now on sale at the link below. Continue reading