ICED EARTH guitarist Jon Schaffer has checked in with the following update:

"Hello Iced Earthlings!

I just wanted to give you all a quick update from the road. First off, I’d like to send a huge thanks to all the fans that came out and supported us on this second leg of our Dystopia 2011-2012 World Tour.

The band has covered thousands upon thousands of miles through North America, Central America, South America, Australia and Asia, since January. Though we are a bit tired and needing some rest and relaxation, it will not be long before the third leg starts… but more on that in the coming days and weeks!

The fans in all of these territories have been awesome to us every single night. We are truly blessed to have such an amazingly loyal fan-base, regardless of what country we play in. Thanks so much for the warm welcome everywhere we’ve been!

We arrived in China last night and have enjoyed a great day off seeing some incredible sites, meeting interesting people, and taking in some truly amazing food. We are very much looking forward to our first shows here on Wednesday and Friday this week.

I also want to send a shout out to our brothers in SYMPHONY X and WARBRINGER for the great time we had together in North America. The tour was fantastic and we’ve made good friends for life.

Until next time, this freight train keeps on rolling! See you on the road soon!"

Iced Earth's schedule in China is as follows:

April

11 - Shanghai, China - Mao Live House
13 - Beijing, China - Star Live

Iced Earth released their new video for 'Anthem' earlier this year. It was shot in Cologne, Germany during the European leg of the band's world tour.

“We had a blast making that video,” said Schaffer. “I think the fans can see it on our faces. ‘Anthem’ captures the energy of our live shows, as well as the fun we’re having together as a band.”

Produced and directed by Kosch Fabian Film, 'Anthem' is the second music video released from Iced Earth’s 10th studio album, Dystopia. Check it out below: