The term ‘Supergroup’ is thrown around with wild abandon these days, with almost any coming together of artists with the slightest of celebrated histories being bigged up by their respective PR representative. You would, though, be a bit of a simpleton if the ‘S’ word didn’t cross your mind when thinking of The Crunch.

Formed in 2003 by Japanese guitar wunderkind Yoichiro Ishino, Area51 – despite previous collaborations with the likes of vocalist Rob Rock and producer James Borgen – so far have made little if any impact outside the founder’s homeland. That could be about to change with this, the project’s fourth album, thanks to the recruitment of Soilwork drummer Dirk Verbeuren, Symphony X bassist Mike LePond and renowned session keyboard whizz Matt Guillory (best known for his work with James LaBrie’s solo band).

Canadian hard rock band Heavens Fire, among others, Darren James Smith (formerly of Harem Scarem) is currently recording a sequel to the 2013 album “Judgement Day”. The album which will be called “Playing With Fire” is expected to be released this autumn.