Scott Weiland has been fired from Stone Temple Pilots, according to his former Velvet Revolver bandmate Slash.

Slash was asked about Weiland's recent comments that he was "completely open" to reuniting with Velvet Revolver.

Slash answered,  "That's because he got fired from STP. I think, all things considered, because these things always catch me by surprise, too, because I only find out about it through the media. I'm on the road in another country and I start hearing all this stuff, so I inquire within, and that's what I was told."

Former Metallica bass player Jason Newsted has revealed that he is almost finished recording an album with his new self-titled band.

Newsted gave fans a hint of his return to the music scene recently when he launching a new website but now he has followed up with a Facebook message about his new band and album.

He writes: "I am very happy in my life now! I have a new band that bears my own name. We're just finishing our first record. I'm feeling strong again playing bass and singing lead vocals and you all will be hearing it in one month's time!!! New year, new band, new life!!! Bless you all and I can't wait to share my music with everyone!!! I'm entrusting all of my friends to get the word out!!! Jason's back!!!"