Metal Shock Finland's Blackdiamond recently conducted an interview with new ICED EARTH drummer, Raphael Saini. During the interview, Raphael expressed his feelings about Jon Schaffer and working with him:

"I was impressed by Jon, I’ve never met anybody in my life who works as hard as he does; he’s a perfectionist, he makes things happen, he works really hard. If you work hard, he can be your best friend because he’s really cool. I’ve learned so much from Jon in two months. He wants the best for Iced Earth, so if you understand this, then everything goes really easily with him. He just wants the best for everybody. “

Discussing the upcoming album Plagues Of Babylon, Raphael said: "I was involved from the last part of the writing process, I had to write down drum parts and fills. It was very interesting because Jon made me do my things, actually he pushed me to do my best. You can hear a lot of new things happening with the drums. I think the concept is really great, I really can’t wait for them to say what’s happening! I want to see the reaction of the crowd and the fans. The fans can expect something really powerful, I believe something very intense."

Listen to the interview here.

Iced Earth vocalist/guitarist Jon Schaffer recently issued the following update in regards to the band's upcoming studio album, Plagues Of Babylon:

"We have completed recording, mixing, and mastering for the new album, Plagues Of Babylon. It’s been a long summer, but a very productive one. I am very proud of my band mates! Everyone kicked ass, and we made a really special record.

Now, it’s time try to rest for a few “minutes” before the next chapter of world touring begins.

Best to you all! We will see our European friends on the road with our brothers in VOLBEAT, then the rest of you on the Worldwide Plagues Tour 2014!"

On October 11th, Volbeat embark on their arena tour in support of their fifth album, Outlaw Gentlemen And Shady Ladies. The quartet will be joined by a company of good friends and accomplices; Iced Earth will be main support from October 11th in Milan until December 1st in Copenhagen.

As Michael Poulsen puts it: "It’s an honor again to share the road and stage with our brothers in legendary Iced Earth. I've been a huge fan (and still am) of Iced Earth since their self titled debut in 1990. We once shared the road with them in the US and now we're back together in Europe. We promise you heavy and we’re looking forward to seeing you all out there!"

Iced Earth mainman Jon Schaffer says: "I love Volbeat and touring with Michael and the boys was one of the greatest tours we have ever done. I cannot wait to repeat this and kick ass with this amazing package all over Europe."

Iced Earth's live itinerary can be found at this location.