GODSMACK PLOTTING 2012 TOUR WITH STAIND, PREPPING LIVE ALBUM

Godsmack frontman Sully Erna has been spending some of his time away from the band and touring behind his debut solo album, ‘Avalon.’ But Godsmack fans don’t need to worry that he’s forgotten about them — in fact, they have plenty to look forward to in the new year, including a new live album, a covers project and a co-headlining tour with Staind.

Erna shared the news during a recent interview with the Boston Herald, during which he also reflected on his plans to commemorate the ‘Avalon’ tour — which he said “showed the power of music and what it can do when it’s presented the proper way” — with a 3D concert film.

“Just like any other tour, it took us a week or a week and a half to get into a groove … and polish the fluidity of the performance,” Erna admitted. “But it came together because all the musicians in this band are so talented. … It felt really like it grew internally for us, and externally for the audience it was smoother.

“It was very refreshing to see people get it. It really translated to people,” he continued. “Every night, there were people in the audience with tissues, wiping tears from their face.”

As for Godsmack, Erna says current plans call for the band to head into the studio in January to mix a live album, record some covers that “inspired us along the way,” and hit the road with Staind in the spring. A busy year’s ahead, to be certain — but Erna embraces the opportunity to keep bringing music to the fans. “It’s nice to touch people on a musical and emotional level,” he said. “I have a lot of energy, and I’m looking forward to getting it out there.

LOUDWIRE