Hey, guys, remember Quickies? Gosh, those were fun, weren’t they? Well, good news: we’re still doing them, only now they’re called “Canto.” (Gotta keep up with the whole Dante / Nine Circles of Hell theme!)

For all intents and purposes, though, it’s the same idea—so let’s not waste any more time on an intro. Here’s what we missed in the metal world today:

• Leading off with easily the best news of the day: Iron Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson is officially cancer-free! As you might expect, the band’s holding off on touring until 2016 to allow him time to fully recover. Up the damn Irons!
• After what’s felt like months’ worth of rumblings about their progress on a new album, Lamb of God are streaming a new song, “Still Echoes,” on their website. My thoughts? “Meh.” The new album, VII: Sturm und Drang, is due in July.
• Blues guitar legend B.B. King passed away yesterday at 89, and while he was wasn’t remotely metal, a number of folks from the heavier side of the spectrum took to the internet to pay their respects. Nice to see. (And, of course, R.I.P.)
• Good news if you like power metal: Kamelot debuted in the top 40 with their new album, Haven! I haven’t even listened to this band since Roy Khan left—are they still any good?
• And finally, Primitive Man released a ridiculously NSFW video for “Loathe.” It’s all kind of messed up. If you’re a brave soul, check it out:

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These guys at MDF next week will certainly be something. Anyway, that’ll do it for now. Enjoy the weekend!

Keep it heavy,
Dan