"Once again the winds of change are upon us, and this time I can say that I am very happy about the result.
"While out on the European tour I had several in depth discussions with many loyal ICED EARTH fans. A common theme of these discussions was how much Matt is missed. I agreed with the fans that things were not the same and that it was a very special period in ICED EARTH's history.
"When I heard several months ago that Matt [Barlow] was going to be doing a project in music again, I was thinking about contacting him and seeing what his intentions were. I didn't act on this because I was so focused on the writing of the new epic, and frankly, it just didn't seem realistic.
"Well, after getting out on the road and speaking with many of you directly, I decided to call Matt and see how he was doing and if he was interested in working together again. I am proud to say that he is coming back to ICED EARTH and we will be getting back to work in the studio very soon.
"Matt will be singing on Part 2 of the 'Something Wicked' concept CD and we will be looking forward to getting out on tour and delivering a series of ICED EARTH shows that will rival any in the history of the band. And there will be a proper DVD filmed from this period, something we’ve all been waiting for.
"I want you all to know that it was you who made this a reality. I have missed Matt's presence onstage and in my personal life in a big way over the past few years, so I appreciate your honesty in our discussions. It did help me realize the decision to move forward with pursuing this. The fans have spoken and we have delivered!
"You true fans know that I'm a straight shooter, I say what I mean and mean what I say. And though I value your opinions greatly, you must believe that this is a decision that comes completely from the heart and is not motivated by anything other than what feels the best for ICED EARTH. This is the way that things have always been dealt with, for better or for worse, but always honestly and from the heart.
"Tim Owens is a great and talented singer and I wish the best for him and his future on a personal and professional level.
"There will be more news soon as to further developments and plans. This will push back the release of Part 2 a bit. Not because we couldn't be ready to record in time, but because of a new addition to Matt's family in early 2008!
"I am very happy to announce that ICED EARTH is truly BACK!"
Comment #1 by Revelation 23 on December 13, 2007 at 01:05am
Mixed feelings on this. I do think Owens is a better singer, but I also think Barlow is the better voice for Iced Earth. Sucks that Tim's going through what he went through in Judas Priest again, being replaced by the one he replaced. Plus, it's happening in the middle of Framing Armageddon, no less. And Matt is still in Pyramaze. The "Iced Earth is Truly Back" comment has got to sting. I remember Owens saying that he had started to feel like more of a hired gun and little more than Halford's replacement and not Priest's vocalist and that him being in Iced Earth wasn't like that. Guess it didn't last. Something messed up, this way comes.
Comment #2 by CrazyIvan on December 14, 2007 at 9:35pm
Remember Owens has his own band too, so it shouldn't be that hard on him..
Comment #3 by Revelation 23 on December 15, 2007 at 05:49am
True. But I remember Jon saying that IE had moved into a new era and that Owens had the kind of voice he heard in his head when he was writing songs. He'd also said something along the lines that working with Matt wasn't what it used to be. Now, to invite him back into the band in the middle of the Framing Armageddon saga, it somehow doesn't right. He's come out to praise Tim for his work in the band, but I can't help but wonder if something else lead to bringing Matt back. Fortunately, Tim Owens isn't without work, and Matt's in the same situation if things with Iced Earth doesn't last this time around. Who knows, maybe it'll turn out to be a great decision and that both Iced Earth and Beyond Fear will continue on strong and there'll be no bad blood over any of this. We shall see.
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