Bay Area thrash metal legends TESTAMENT, recently took home the award for “best music video” at the American Indian Film Festival for their clip for the track “Native Blood!” The song, whose lyrics are about vocalist Chuck Billy’s Native American heritage, was filmed at the Hopland Indian Reservation in Hopland, CA. The clip was directed by Mike Sloat (MACHINE HEAD, STAIND).

“I am very happy to have our video recognized,” commented Billy, “but the award and praise goes to Mike Sloat for making my vision come to life and convey such a powerful message. Mike Sloat we salute you.”

The American Indian Film Festival recognizes outstanding Indian cinematic accomplishments from Native media makers and talent. The Festival also provides an opportunity for filmmakers, tribes, media and public audiences to come together and share in the creative experience and celebrate cinematic accomplishment. For more information visit http://aifisf.com.

TESTAMENT scanned 20,720 copies of their new album Dark Roots of Earth in its first week of sales in the United States according to Nielsen SoundScan. The album debuted at No. 12 on the US Billboard Top 200 chart, making it their highest first week sales since the inception of SoundScan. This also marks the highest first week sales for a Nuclear Blast artist yet.

Dark Roots of Earth was produced, mixed and mastered by acclaimed British producer Andy Sneap (ARCH ENEMY, NEVERMORE, ACCEPT, EXODUS). Special bonus tracks were recorded, mixed and mastered by Juan Urteaga (MACHINE HEAD, EXODUS, TED NUGENT, NIGHT RANGER) at his Trident Studios. Eliran Kantor, who has previously worked with ATHEIST, SIGH, ANACRUSIS and GWAR, among others, provided the cover artwork.