I don't think anyone could be shocked about Iced Earth. I know I certainly wasn't. My heart skipped a beat reading the title, fearing Elvenking had dropped off for one reason or another. I'm not overly impressed with the utterly generic sound Rob Rock brings from what I heard in the video posted, but hey, whatever. I wasn't all gun-ho for Astral Doors either.
So, Iced Earth with Barlow? I'm not a fan of iced earth, but I'm interested in seeing them play. I think it'll be like Symphony X. Cant stand their CDs, but live, they (will) rule. So, Elvenking, Iced Earth, Voltbeat, and Iron Savior. I'm 4 for 12 (in bands I'm excited about) so far. That's better than in years past. 8 Bands have a shot at surprising me. I like the odds.