By Matt Klein

   Among metal lovers, there has been much anticipation for any news about the annual Thrash and Burn tour (TaB). After a surprisingly disappointing 2010 tour, TaB has gathered a very exciting, impressive lineup of both artists and concert venues.

   Previously, TaB has featured big-name metal artists, including Oceano, Despised Icon, Through the Eyes of the Dead, Emmure, Arsonists Get All the Girls, Veil of Maya, as well as many Christian bands such as Impending Doom and Stick to Your Guns.

   For the 2011 tour, Winds of Plague are returning as a headliner. For the Fallen Dreams, Chelsea Grin, As Blood Runs Black, and Upon a Burning Body are also returning, and Christian bands In the Midst of Lions and Like Moths to a Flame are expected to debut.

   Instead of including cookie-cutter metal bands like many other tours, Thrash and Burn show their colors by hosting highly renowned, original bands. Although TaB usually takes place during the summer, the usual White Rabbit venue will host TaB on December 9, and Austin’s own Emo’s will host TaB for the first time on December 13.