Angel’s Rock Report– Killswitch Fires Singer [AUDIO]

The Rock Report is sponsored by Joel at Devil Dog Bail Bonds, "The Dog That Never Sleeps", 542-8456.

Killswitch Engage have fired singer Howard Jones. They've issued a statement saying, "We love Howard and are thankful for the nine years that we've had him in the band. Out of respect for everyone involved, we will not be discussing the specific reasons behind this decision. Howard is a part of our family and always will be, and we wish him well. He has left big shoes to fill."  You can see the entire statement on the band's Facebook.

Killswitch Engage just started work on their new album last month. Jones took a break from the band for undisclosed medical reasons in 2010 and was replaced for a tour by All That Remains vocalist Philip Labonte and original vocalist Jesse Leach.

Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder appears on the second season of Portlandia, this hilarious sketch show that airs on IFC on Friday nights. Vedder's episode isn't on until next Friday, but you can watch it now on IFC.com. (Fast forward to about 15:45 to see the sketch involving Vedder and a tattoo.)

Metallica will release their current digital EP Beyond Magnetic on CD January 31st. The four songs are leftovers from the band's 2008 Death Magnetic sessions.

The band has posted the final compilation of highlights from last month's 30th anniversary shows on YouTube.

For quite a few years now the Pittsburgh Steelers have played the Styx song "Renegade" during each home game to pump up the defense. That synergy has led to the creation of the "Oh Mama/Renegade" T-shirt line, which is believed to be the first time a rock band and an NFL franchise have gotten together to create co-branded merchandise.  LOVE this idea, hopefully it starts a trend.