We recently mentioned that MAGFest VIII was announced and registration is now open. But how about what those tickets get you? Well MAGFest crew member Nick 'The Newbie' Marinelli has let slip two of the sure to be many bands performing at this upcoming MAGFest! Read on to get the scoop right from Nick himself!

Good news MAGFans, we're revealing our first two musical guests that will be playing at MAGFest 8, January 1-4, 2010, in Alexandria, VA. They're both veteran bands to us, so they're well versed in the art of rocking out.

Metroid Metal: Originally a solo project by Grant Henry at metroidmetal.com, this metal tribute to Nintendo's Metroid series made its full live band debut at last year's MAGFest, and is playing at PAX 2009 in seattle. They just released their new album "Varia Suite" and you can get it through their website. They'll be returning this year to attach to your head and drain all your energy. Get your ice beam ready!

Arm Cannon: An internationally renowned 5 piece band from Buffalo NY, these guys have made their mark remixing video game classics. They skillfully reincarnate these classic melodies of yore into a progressive-metal triumph of nostalgia. An Armcannon show will reawaken your inner child with the unmatchable power of rock. They've been with MAGFest since our 5th fest in 2007, and are glad to return this year. They also just released their second, and you can get it at armcannon.com [ed. I also reviewed their new album READ IT!]

For fresh new videos of Metroid Metal with terrific remastered audio, and other great videos of bands and happenings from past MAGFests, check out our youtube channel at youtube.com/magfest

This is just the beginning, folks! We'll have plenty more bands and guests to announce in the coming weeks. Make sure to pre-register now to save $5, and get admission to our New Years Eve party! magfest.org/prereg

Also, MAGFest will be sponsoring the music at the upcoming GameX Industry Summit in Philadelphia this coming October. GameX is a national game consumer show designed to draw from national, regional and local audiences of game players, film and TV fans, comic book buffs and tech enthusiasts. High-value consumer content is being provided by exhibitors and sponsors, including major media and entertainment companies seeking to build their brands with the core games audience. MAGFest will be in charge of the music, so some see bands including The One-Ups and Arm Cannon. More info at gamexpo.us