SPV has set a May 9 North American release date (one day earlier internationally) for the self-titled debut album from BEYOND FEAR, the new band fronted by former JUDAS PRIEST and current ICED EARTH vocalist Tim "Ripper" Owens.

"I always knew that I would bring out an album featuring my own compositions one day," Owens explained in a press release. "But I didn't feel like a solo recording, I'd much rather perform my songs with a permanent band. That's how BEYOND FEAR came about."

The debut was recorded at the legendary Morrisound Studios in Tampa, Florida, under the direction of producer Jim Morris — a definite quality feature when it comes to the album’s sound and dynamics. BEYOND FEAR consist of Owens (vocals), guitarist John Comprix (SPAWN, 13 FACES) in the new group are Dennis Hayes (ex-WINTERS BANE, SEVEN WITCHES) on bass, Dwane Bihary (MISSING SKIN) on rhythm guitar, and drummer Eric Elkins (CRYPTKICKER, ALL YOU FEAR). The album consists of fourteen haunting metal numbers, which, according to Owens, "show unmistakably where my musical roots lie: in the classic heavy metal of the Eighties. However, I've transported that traditional metal style into the present, lending it its own touch."

Owens composed seven of the fourteen tracks on "Beyond Fear" on his own; the remaining seven were penned by Owens together with Comprix. "This is the best album I've ever recorded," enthused Owens, promising an extensive European tour starting summer 2006. And there seems to be no doubt in his mind about a continuation of his extremely successful collaboration with ICED EARTH mastermind Jon Schaffer: "I will definitely sing on the next ICED EARTH album!" Owens said.