NIGHTWISH - Announce New Album Yesterwynde

April 30, 2024

A magic dwells in every beginning, full of anticipation for what lies ahead, making time briefly stand still. This moment seems almost infinite, filled with limitless possibilities for the future and the start of a new era. And now, this moment has dawned for NIGHTWISH…

Today, NIGHTWISH finally breaks the quietude to announce Yesterwynde.
The Symphonic metal legend’s new album will see the light of the day on September 20th, 2024. It marks the band’s tenth studio album, following on from the release of Human. :II: Nature. in 2020.

Tuomas Holopainen stated about the new album:
"Yesterwynde is a fantastical voyage through time, memory, and the better angels of human nature.
Three years in the making, we`re thrilled beyond words to soon share our tenth album with the world!"

Furthermore, NIGHTWISH announce the release of the album's first single today. 'Perfume Of The Timeless' will mark the beginning of the band's new era and will be released on May 21st. Presave the single now:
https://nightwish.bfan.link/perfumeofthetimeless.a01

About NIGHTWISH
Working with NUCLEAR BLAST since the release of their highly lauded 2004 album Once, NIGHTWISH have gained international fame and success selling more than ten million records and receiving more than 60 gold and platinum awards, having released six No #1 albums and thirteen No #1 singles. In October 2018, NIGHTWISH was inducted into the Tähtikatu – Walk of Fame Finland, becoming the honorary gallery's eleventh member. 2020 saw the release of the band's last studio record, Human. :II: Nature. that crowned the band's discography with another No. #1 success in Finland and Germany as well as several other impressive chart entries worldwide.

More info:

www.nightwish.com
www.facebook.com/nightwish
www.nuclearblast.de/nightwish
www.instagram.com/nightwish/
www.twitter.com/NightwishBand

Sugar Horse Share New Video "The Shape Of ASMR To Come"

April 30, 2024

"A sucker punch of sludge-punk'"— Knotfest.com

"Riff merchants expertly balance filth and ambience" — Metal Hammer

"Beautifully devastating" — Kerrang!

UK quartet Sugar Horse have unveiled their powerful new single "The Shape Of ASMR To Come," taken from their new album Grand Scheme Of Things, to be released October 4 via Pelagic Records.

Watch the video below.

Stream the single + pre-order the record here.

Vocalist + guitarist Ashley Tubb comments, "After my dad's passing, in the time before his funeral, I learned a ton about his life that I previously hadn't a clue about. He's been through a fair bit in his life and this song is kind of about that. It's a kind of 'through adversity, there is redemption' type song. No pain, no gain etc."

"The Shape Of ASMR To Come" is the second single taken from the upcoming new album, following the release of "New Dead Elvis" last month.

Regarding the album, the band shares, "This album was intended to be a sideways step. A move away from the kind of thing that is expected of us... if anything is at all. What I mean by that, is the songs are more direct. They take a much shorter amount of time to 'get to the point.' We also wanted to make this one noticeably 'less metal.' While we love being a bit boneheaded and confrontational, we definitely wanted to explore the more melodic, song-based side of the band’s sound. Normally, you'd see shortened song structures and more singing and think, 'Oh these guys are going for gold….they wanna get on the radio and make millions of bloodstained pounds.' Well, you're very much entitled to think that if you wish, but it felt like more of a songwriting challenge than anything else to be honest. We've done the whole drawn out, endless space rock thing a good few times now and it would've been easy to rest on those laurels. Do something we're comfortable with. Alas, that is not really the point of this band. We'd much prefer to make it difficult and take the long route."

The new single and album news follow Sugar Horse's titanic split 7'' with new labelmates LLNN, and previous EP Truth Or Consequences, New Mexico.

Stream and purchase the 7'' here. Order and stream Truth Or Consequences, New Mexico here.

An epic and ambitious achievement, Truth... is, in signature Sugar Horse style, one single long song: a meditation and exploration of everything the note A has to offer.

Sugar Horse recently toured with LLNN, and previously with post-rock luminaries 65daysofstatic across Europe, as well as dates with Pianos Become The Teeth, Liturgy, Chat Pile and an appearance at ArcTanGent festival. A lot of people take the name Sugar Horse to be a drug reference — perhaps fitting for a band that sound like the last moments of a three-day binge. Darting wildly between dark/light, pain/bliss, sacred/profane, Sugar Horse are unpredictable and unrestrained.

Formed in what is now considered to be the utopian dreamscape of 2015, the band grew slowly at first. Far from fully formed, but steadily gaining limbs, heads and vital organs. Finally, 2019's DRUJ followed swiftly by 2020's DRUGS saw them hit on a relentless stride of eclectic releases that simultaneously confused and entranced audiences.

2021 saw the band encamp in a former Lutheran church to record their debut album, The Live Long After, releasing it via Brighton’s own Small Pond Records. Publications such as The Quietus describing the record as "shift[ing] dispositions fluidly, taking elements of extreme aggression alongside floaty post-metal" and Echoes & Dust calling it "a monumental achievement." The album took every disparate element that Sugar Horse previously employed and amplified them, while juxtaposing each next to each other, with genuinely unpredictable and exciting consequences.

2022 saw no relent from the band's fast-paced release schedule, as they put out an anthemic shoegaze single in "Pictures Of Dogs Having Sex," followed swiftly by their collaborative Waterloo Teeth EP. A release that paired Sugar Horse's terrifying eclecticism with guest appearances from 12 other artists in just four short(ish) songs. Each artist coming from a different area of the modern British music scene, whether that be world conquering post-punk bass lines from IDLES' Adam Devonshire, heavy titans Conjurer and Pupil Slicer’s throat crippling wails, or a shredding guitar solo from Biffy Clyro/Oceansize axe wielder Mike Vennart. The EP packs in an album’s worth of genre mutilating twists and turns into just 25 minutes of music.

SUGAR HORSE ARE:
Ashley Tubb — Vocals/Guitar
Jake Healy — Baritone Guitar, Keyboards
Chris Howarth — Bass
Martin Savage — Drums

Texas' 9-VOLT VELVET present 'Hey, Candy’, previewing 7” vinyl single and debut 'Nude Beaches' album

April 30, 2024

"A glam-bam-thankyou-ma’am wall of roiling guitar, bass, keyboards and drums. It’s a 70’s stack heeled tour de force dressed in space-age fabrics and driving a rocket propelled Ford Transit into space... this is a jet pack so strap it on and brace yourself for launch" ~ Joyzine

Dallas-based indie dreamgaze outfit 9-Volt Velvet presents their new single 'Hey, Candy', a raucous foreshadowing of their debut album 'Nude Beaches', soon to be released on CD via Brighton, UK-based label Shore Dive Records. What can be said about the first single - oh yes, finding your first love attraction is exciting.

Out May 10, this 13-track collection blends washed-out fuzzy and feedback-laden guitars, driving bass, pounding drum beats and ghosty vocals. Taking their bring of 'rockgazedreamgloom' even further, they will also release a limited edition of twenty 7" lathe-cut vinyl via Cryptic Carousel at the same time, featuring 'Riptide' as the Side-A track and 'Hey Candy' on Side B.

Nestled in the fine territory between post-punk and shoegaze with a surf vibe, 9-Volt Velvet is made up of Mark Cross (lead vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion), Donnie Robertson (drums, percussion, keyboards) and Kevin Robinson (guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals).

Hailing from Muscle Shoals, AL and Dallas respectively, Mark and Donnie met through an ad in a local newspaper, hit it off instantly and formed a band, eventually being joined by Kevin soon after they began performing. Involving past members of of Viva Voce and The Northern Lights, they bring together several decades of experience playing shows with the likes of Starflyer 59, Spoon, The Dandy Warhols, Jimmy Eat World, Sunny Day Real Estate, Kill Hannah, Luxury, Lugsole, The Features, Bleach, Fold Zandura, 764-HERO and Morella’s Forest.

'Nude Beaches' is the culmination of 9-Volt Velvet's musical journey, showcasing their evolution as artists and the unique sounds they have curated together. Inspired by their natural chemistry and a like-minded approach to music-making, in June 2023, they embarked on an intense 3-week studio session in Dallas, crafting an album that explores the themes of freedom and self-expression.

From the introspective lyrics to the intricate musical arrangements, every aspect of 'Nude Beaches' reflects the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and taking risks. This is a sonic journey that invites listeners to embrace their own individuality and revel in the joy of truly being themselves.

Influenced by such artists as The Cure, Sonic Youth, Swervedriver, The Jesus & Mary Chain, DIIV and The Velvet Underground, 9-Volt Velvet emerged as a recording artist in January 22 with their debut 'Cathedrals' EP, followed by the 'Mirrors' EP in July of that year.

The 'Riptide / Hey, Candy' 7" vinyl edition is out on May 10. The CD for the debut 'Nude Beaches' album will also be available via Shore Dive Records. It can already be found digitally from fine music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Written and performed by 9-Volt Velvet
Mark Cross - lead vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion
Donnie Robertson - drums, percussion, keyboards
Kevin Robinson - guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals
Recorded at Starlight Studios (Dallas) by Donnie Robertson & Jeff Ross
Produced, mixed & mastered by Donnie Robertson
CD released via Shore Dive Records
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Scotty McCreery Tops the Chart with "Cab in a Solo" from 'Rise and Fall' Set for 5/10

April 29, 2024

Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery earns his sixth No. 1 hit on the Mediabase Country Chart with “Cab in a Solo,” the lead single from his forthcoming fifth studio album Rise and Fall, arriving May 10. Listen to “Cab in a Solo” HERE. Pre-order/pre-save Rise and Fall HERE.

“I have loved this song from the moment Brent, Frank and I started writing it,” said McCreery. “It may be all about heartbreak but it’s so fun to sing. I’m thrilled to see it reach No. 1. Thanks to the fans for supporting it and country radio for playing it!”

Written by McCreery with Brent Anderson and Frank Rogers, “Cab in a Solo” was most added at Country radio upon its debut, with Billboard praising, “McCreery has been on a hot streak of well-crafted, notably performed songs,” upon the track’s release, noting he “continues to slake music listeners’ affinity for ‘90s country, thanks to a neo-traditional sound connected to vivid lyricism.” This is McCreery’s fastest rising song to reach No. 1.

McCreery was in Napa, California last week participating in “Live in the Vineyard Goes Country.” While in the area, he also gave an intimate performance at Silver Oak Winery where attendees drank a 1998 Silver Oak cabernet sauvignon from solo cups, just as McCreery sang in “Cab in a Solo.”

The newest member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry returned to the stage where he won hearts across the nation over 13 years ago, performing “Cab in a Solo” on “American Idol” last night, available now to stream on Hulu. Watch his performance below.

McCreery is also set to return to “The Kelly Clarkson Show” this Wednesday, May 1 with a special performance from the Grand Ole Opry stage. Check local listings for time.

McCreery will return to the Grand Ole Opry stage on May 11, just one day after he releases his new album Rise and Fall. The first 400 ticketholders who also purchase the album onsite in the Opry Shop that evening will gain access to an exclusive album release celebration and acoustic performance with Scotty directly following the show in the Opry House’s Studio A. For Opry tickets and information, visit Opry.com.

Rise and Fall will feature 13 tracks that find him exploring not only heartbreak but rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood and enduring love, resulting in a project full of insightful storytelling, including the latest and final song to be delivered before the album is released, “Lonely.” The album was produced by McCreery’s longtime production team of Frank Rogers, Derek Wells and Aaron Eshuis.

McCreery co-wrote 12 of the 13 songs on the album, which will be released digitally as well as on CD and vinyl. In addition, Amazon will release a limited edition, forest green vinyl version of the album. Pre-order autographed vinyl and CDs of Rise and Fall HERE.

“I know every artist says it, but this is truly my favorite album I’ve made so far,” shares McCreery. “I wanted to create an album that reflected the music I grew up on and wasn’t chasing trends. So, I brought several of my songwriting buddies to the mountains of North Carolina to sit down and write a full-on country album that told a story, start to finish, and spoke to my soul. We’ve been performing most of the album live on the road and the response from the audiences has been overwhelming. I can’t wait for everyone to hear Rise and Fall when it comes out May 10th.”

The North Carolina native knows all too well there’s a rhythm to life and a cycle of ups and downs. And right now, he’s on the upswing.

Now 30 years old and a seasoned country music veteran selling out concerts across the globe with six No. 1 hits under his belt, McCreery is also a dedicated husband and father, welcoming a son named Avery in 2022, whose impact on the singer is highlighted in several songs on the album. Recently, he even celebrated the milestone of all milestones for a guy who grew up on Randy Travis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and Ronnie Milsap; he was invited by his musical hero Garth Brooks to become the newest member of the iconic Grand Ole Opry. McCreery was just welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by two more of his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis.

But folks like McCreery know it means more when you’ve seen the other side. For him, each highlight has come in contrast to a challenge – things like the loss of his first record deal and the year of naysaying uncertainty that followed before he built himself up again, brick by brick. As a result, Rise and Fall comes from an artist who knows to appreciate the ride – no matter where it leads.

“I feel like we’re on the rise now, but I’ve fallen pretty low as well,” McCreery admits. “I learned from every little part of that, and it helped me to know who I was as a person – let alone an artist. The rises and the falls helped craft these songs. They made this album what it is.”

In addition to his No. 1 single “Cab in a Solo” and Friday’s release of “Lonely,” McCreery has also delivered “Red Letter Blueprint,” “Slow Dance,” “Can’t Pass the Bar” and “Love Like This.”

Silver Oak Proprietor/Chairman & CEO David R. Duncan and Scotty McCreery toasting to the No. 1 success of McCreery’s “Cab in a Solo” with a 1998 Silver Oak cabernet sauvignon in a solo cup at the Silver Oak Winery in Napa Valley. | Photo Credit: Evan Roscoe

Tickets for upcoming tour dates are on sale now at ScottyMcCreery.com.

About Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half his life, ever since making history in 2011 as both the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified Clear as Day, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. With his forthcoming album Rise and Fall set for release May 10, featuring his sixth No. 1 single “Cab in a Solo” and 12 additional tracks, McCreery explores classic themes of heartbreak, rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood, and enduring love, and through it all, felt comfortable being himself, resulting in a project full of electrified twang, rich baritone vocals and insightful storytelling. The 30-year-old has sold more than 4 million albums and achieved 6 No.1 hits: the recent “Cab in a Solo,” the RIAA Platinum-certified “Damn Strait,” the RIAA Gold certified “You Time,” the RIAA Gold certified “In Between,” the RIAA Platinum certified “This is It,” and the RIAA Triple Platinum certified ‘Five More Minutes.” The North Carolina native has earned one Triple Platinum, five Platinum and four Gold singles; one Platinum and two Gold albums; won the 10th season of “American Idol” in 2011 at age 17; was named the ACM New Artist of the Year in 2011; won two CMT Music Awards, the first for Breakthrough Video of the Year (“The Trouble with Girls”) in 2012, and the second for Digital-First Performance of the Year (“It Matters to Her” from “CMT Stages”) in 2024; and BMI Awards for writing One of the Top 50 Country Songs of the Year five times (in 2015 for “See You Tonight,” in 2018 for “Five More Minutes,” in 2019 for “This is It,” in 2021 for “In Between,” and in 2022 for “You Time”). He was awarded Pandora Billionaire status in 2021 in recognition of his music achieving more than one billion streams on Pandora. His song “Five More Minutes” inspired two popular holiday movies which aired on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Network: “Five More Minutes” in 2021 and “Five More Minutes: Moments Like These” in 2022. He released his first book Go Big or Go Home: The Journey Toward the Dream in 2016. His most recent album is Same Truck: The Deluxe Album. This fall McCreery was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and last year was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks. McCreery was just welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis. The singer/songwriter married his high school sweetheart Gabi in 2018, and the couple had their first son Avery in October 2022. For more information, visit ScottyMcCreery.com.

THE DEAD DAISIES ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE, NEW ALBUM AND GLOBAL TOUR

April 28, 2024

THE DEAD DAISIES are gearing up for a truly ambitious and global 2024!

The first single off the new album called “Light ‘Em Up” will be released on May 10th! You can pre-save the song here: https://orcd.co/thedeaddaisies_lightemup

“Hey Gang, we are releasing our first single “Light ‘Em Up” on May 10th, from our new record, aptly titled “Light ‘Em Up” as well! It’s a kick-ass, straight ahead rock and roll tune, just how we like it!!! Turn it up, and get ready to bang your head and break shit!!! Hope ya like it!!! Love you guys!!” – John Corabi

Here is a taste of the first single “Light ‘Em Up” off the upcoming album: https://thedeaddaisies.com/light-em-up-single-snippet/

The Album of the same name “Light ‘Em Up”, will be released on September 6th and distributed globally by SPV Germany & Ward Records in Japan.

Produced by Marti Frederiksen in Nashville, the album is in-your-face rock, packed with huge hooks, Doug’s giant intense guitar riffs and John’s distinctive vocals that will leave no audience in their seats when played live.

June 6th will see the band kick off their global touring for the year with a limited run of their favorite markets and venues in the US with tickets already on sale. Go to the band’s website for more info.

The Dead Daisies most ambitious and biggest UK Tour to date will launch on Friday September 6th, with Special Guests The Treatment and The Bites which will coincide with the release of the album “Light ‘Em Up”.

The band will then embark on a run of mainland Europe kicking off on Friday November 1st with the final show of the year in Frankfurt, Germany. Special Guests for these shows are Beasto Blanco and Mike Tramp (Performing the Songs Of White Lion).

“Our 2024 Tour has been locked and we’re gonna have some great nights of kick ass rock!!!! Can’t wait to play the new songs for you guys! See ya there!!”
– Doug Aldrich

UK Pre Sales will be available at Planet Rock from Friday, April 26th:

www.planetrocktickets.co.uk/article/the-dead-daisies/

Germany Pre Sales will be available through Eventim from Friday, April 26th:

https://www.lb-events.de/de/veranstaltungen/the-dead-daisies.html

The Dead Daisies have been doubling down on the fact that Rock Is Alive And Well - it truly feels like this is another year to cement that statement!

THE DEAD DAISIES:

Doug Aldrich, Tommy Clufetos, John Corabi, Michael Devin, David Lowy

LIGHT ‘EM UP - WORLD TOUR 2024

https://thedeaddaisies.com/light-em-up-world-tour-2024/

USA

JUNE

06 – Racket NYC New York, NY

08 – The Landis Theater Vineland, NJ

09 – Mickey’s Black Box Lititz, PA

11 – The Machine Shop Flint, MI

12 – The Arcada Theatre St. Charles, IL

15 – Blue Note Harrison, OH

16 – The Basement East Nashville, TN

19 – House Of Blues San Diego, CA

20 – Whisky A Go Go Los Angeles, CA

22 – Goldfield Trading Post Roseville, CA

www.thedeaddaisies.com

My Epic Sign to Tooth & Nail + Announce "Loriella" Album + Share "Northstar" Video

April 28, 2024

Tooth & Nail Records is pleased to add My Epic to its global roster. The band — Aaron Stone [guitar, vocals], Tanner Morita [guitar], and Nate Washburn[guitar, bass] — was formerly signed to Facedown Records. They've shifted and grown, and their sound accounts for lots of lived experience.

The band will release its label debut (and fourth album overall) Loriella on June 28. Pre-order it here.

"Loriella is a record about progression, joy, and the confidence that can only grow after the loss of innocence," the band states. "It's the soundtrack to a hard-won optimism that comes from a commitment to living with 'open hearts and calloused hands.' Massive in dynamic, with intention in every detail, we've never worked harder and can't wait to share these songs."

The time to share these songs has arrived, as the band has dropped the video for the expansive, room-filling, and darkly atmospheric first single "Northstar." Watch it below.

"We don't keep the peace, we make it,'" the band says, referencing a key lyric in the track. "'Northstar' is a future forward production of a classic My Epic formula: Powerful melodic hooks, interspersed with moody dynamic shifts, all culminating in a massive ending. It's a song about how making peace with the past is the most powerful way forward."

ABOUT MY EPIC:
My Epic tune into this moment of reawakening on their fourth full-length offering and Tooth & Nail Records debut Loriella. Balancing waves of warm distorted fuzz with lush melodies and cinematic production, the group make the kind of music that rouses the senses and might just encourage you to open your eyes, mind, and heart a little wider.

"The record is about having lived long enough to lose your innocence and still being able to find joy, hope, peace, and faith," explains Aaron. "I can be a critical person, but there's a difference between being critical and cynical. I understand why people end up choosing cynicism, because sometimes it can seem like the best way to make sense of all the data in the world–but I think cynicism is death. It's part of my aim to fight cynicism at every turn. The album is about discovery and re-engaging life with purpose on new terms of your own."

Throughout the past two decades, the band have quietly, yet consistently engaged a devout fanbase with a simultaneously anthemic and intricate approach to alternative rock. They've progressed across the likes of I Am Undone [2008], Yet [2010], and Behold [2013]. The latter notably catapulted onto the Billboard Heatseekers Albums Chart. Generating millions of streams, their catalog expanded with fan favorite EPs such as Viscera [2016], Ultraviolet [2018], and Violence [2019]—which HM Magazine hailed as "a blend of indie-alternative enchantments." Meanwhile, Cory Brandan of Norma Jean lent his voice to "White Noises.” During 2020, the band signed to Tooth & Nail, turning the page on another chapter as they set their sights on their first full-length since 2013. In between, life happened as band members became dads and moved around personally and professionally.

For the first time, Nate assumed the role of primary producer, and Loriella materialized over the course of two years in three different studios. Along the way, they nodded to early inspirations such as The Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters, and Third Eye Blind.

Scotty McCreery Releases "Lonely" from 'Rise and Fall' Arriving May 10

April 27, 2024

Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery may be a happily married father, but that is not stopping him from tapping into a bit of sorrow for his latest release out today, “Lonely,” from his upcoming album Rise and Fall. This will be the final song released from Rise and Fall before the album comes out on May 10. Listen to “Lonely” Below.

“I love a good heartbreak, honky-tonk country song, and ‘Lonely’ is definitely that,” said McCreery. “Brent, Derek, Frank, Bobby, Jeremy, Monty and I had such a good time writing this song on my back porch in the mountains of North Carolina. This song is so much fun to perform live and have the audience sing along with us. I’ve had a lot of requests from fans who’ve heard this song on the road to put it out on streaming. Here you go!”

Written by McCreery with Brent Anderson, Derek George, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Jeremy Bussey and Monty Criswell, “Lonely” is a dark-and-dusky two-stepper drenched in heartbreak. Set in a late-night local hole-in-the-wall and narrated by a guy looking to forget why he came in the bar to begin with, friends join him in his effort to drown out the pain turning the barroom into a sing along.

Friends on the jukebox and friends wall to wall
Dimes on the dance floor and cheap alcohol
Round after round, we're all having a ball
I guess lonely ain't lonely after all
No lonely ain't lonely after all

The newest member of the legendary Grand Ole Opry will also return to the stage where he won hearts across the nation over 13 years ago. McCreery is set to perform his chart-topping hit “Cab in a Solo” on “American Idol” this Sunday, April 28. Catch his guest performance live coast-to-coast on ABC at 8 pm ET / 5 pm PT and stream on Hulu.

McCreery is also set to return to “The Kelly Clarkson Show” on Wednesday, May 1 with a special performance from the Grand Ole Opry stage. Check local listings for time.

McCreery will return to the Grand Ole Opry stage on May 11, just one day after he releases his new album Rise and Fall. The first 400 ticketholders who also purchase the album onsite in the Opry Shop that evening will gain access to an exclusive album release celebration and acoustic performance with Scotty directly following the show in the Opry House’s Studio A. For Opry tickets and information, visit Opry.com.

Rise and Fall will feature 13 tracks that find him exploring not only heartbreak but rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood and enduring love, resulting in a project full of insightful storytelling. The album was produced by McCreery’s longtime production team of Frank Rogers, Derek Wells and Aaron Eshuis.

McCreery co-wrote 12 of the 13 songs on the album, which will be released digitally as well as on CD and vinyl. In addition, Amazon will release a limited edition, forest green vinyl version of the album.

Pre-order/pre-save Rise and Fall HERE
Pre-order autographed vinyl and CDs of Rise and Fall HERE

“I know every artist says it, but this is truly my favorite album I’ve made so far,” shares McCreery. “I wanted to create an album that reflected the music I grew up on and wasn’t chasing trends. So, I brought several of my songwriting buddies to the mountains of North Carolina to sit down and write a full-on country album that told a story, start to finish, and spoke to my soul. We’ve been performing most of the album live on the road and the response from the audiences has been overwhelming. I can’t wait for everyone to hear Rise and Fall when it comes out May 10th.”

The North Carolina native knows all too well there’s a rhythm to life and a cycle of ups and downs. And right now, he’s on the upswing.

Now 30 years old and a seasoned country music veteran selling out concerts across the globe with five consecutive No. 1 hits under his belt, McCreery is also a dedicated husband and father, welcoming a son named Avery in 2022, whose impact on the singer is highlighted in several songs on the album. Recently, he even celebrated the milestone of all milestones for a guy who grew up on Randy Travis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and Ronnie Milsap; he was invited by his musical hero Garth Brooks to become the newest member of the iconic Grand Ole Opry. McCreery was just welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by two more of his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis.

But folks like McCreery know it means more when you’ve seen the other side. For him, each highlight has come in contrast to a challenge – things like the loss of his first record deal and the year of naysaying uncertainty that followed before he built himself up again, brick by brick. As a result, Rise and Fall comes from an artist who knows to appreciate the ride – no matter where it leads.

“I feel like we’re on the rise now, but I’ve fallen pretty low as well,” McCreery admits. “I learned from every little part of that, and it helped me to know who I was as a person – let alone an artist. The rises and the falls helped craft these songs. They made this album what it is.”

“Lonely” is the sixth song released from the album, following lead single “Cab in a Solo” and tracks “Red Letter Blueprint,” “Slow Dance,” “Can’t Pass the Bar” and “Love Like This.” A full listing of the album’s songs follows.

Tickets for upcoming tour dates are on sale now at ScottyMcCreery.com.

About Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half his life, ever since making history in 2011 as both the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified Clear as Day, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. With his forthcoming album Rise and Fall set for release May 10, featuring current single “Cab in a Solo” along with 12 additional tracks, McCreery explores classic themes of heartbreak, rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood, and enduring love, and through it all, felt comfortable being himself, resulting in a project full of electrified twang, rich baritone vocals and insightful storytelling. The 30-year-old has sold more than 4 million albums and achieved 5 consecutive No.1 hits: the RIAA Platinum-certified “Damn Strait,” the RIAA Gold certified “You Time,” the RIAA Gold certified “In Between,” the RIAA Platinum certified “This is It,” and the RIAA Triple Platinum certified ‘Five More Minutes.” The North Carolina native has earned one Triple Platinum, five Platinum and four Gold singles; one Platinum and two Gold albums; won the 10th season of “American Idol” in 2011 at age 17; was named the ACM New Artist of the Year in 2011; won two CMT Music Awards for Breakthrough Video of the Year (“The Trouble with Girls”) in 2012 and Digital-First Performance of the Year (“It Matters to Her” on “CMT Stages”) in 2024; and BMI Awards for writing One of the Top 50 Country Songs of the Year five times (in 2015 for “See You Tonight,” in 2018 for “Five More Minutes,” in 2019 for “This is It,” in 2021 for “In Between,” and in 2022 for “You Time”). He was awarded Pandora Billionaire status in 2021 in recognition of his music achieving more than one billion streams on Pandora. His song “Five More Minutes” inspired two popular holiday movies which aired on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Network: “Five More Minutes” in 2021 and “Five More Minutes: Moments Like These” in 2022. He released his first book Go Big or Go Home: The Journey Toward the Dream in 2016. His most recent album is Same Truck: The Deluxe Album. This fall McCreery was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and last year was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks. McCreery was just welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis. The singer/songwriter married his high school sweetheart Gabi in 2018, and the couple had their first son Avery in October 2022. For more information, visit ScottyMcCreery.com.

Extortionist Release New Single + Music Video "When It All Goes Dark" via Unique Leader Records

April 27, 2024

Extortionist have today released their latest single "When It All Goes Dark" and the official video (via Unique Leader Records). The track can be found on the band's upcoming new album 'Devoid of Love & Light' set for release on Friday, May 17. Speaking about the inspiration behind today's release, the band shared:

“'When It All Goes Dark' is the conclusion of the upcoming full-length “Devoid of Love & Light”.

The track is a middle finger pointed towards crooked practices, cliques, and individuals within the music industry and a metaphorical presentation of enduring & navigating a “hive-mind” mentality."

Prior to today, Extortionist dropped the album title track "Devoid of Love & Light" along with the visual accompaniment. Stream "When It All Goes Dark" here and watch the music video below.

Band names go a long way in helping paint a figurative picture in the listener's mind of what to expect before one ever hits “play.” When it comes to Extortionist, you think crime—you think gritty, raw, merciless and unsavory and maybe, just maybe, a little sprinkling of suaveness. When it comes to the Pacific Northwest’s resident moshslingers, those premonitions from their name are exactly what you get. As a band who have proven themselves exemplary at styles of heavy music ranging from downtempo deathcore to grunge-tinted metal, Extortionist are more than just a jack-of-all-trades; they’re masters. Utilizing bold, roaring guitars overtop crushing, steamrolling percussion and vocals that run the gamut from guttural to grating, pitched singing and topped off with—you guessed it—a now-infamous dodgeball-smack snare, Extortionist have proven that not only are they incredible at what they do, they’re a band that the heavy scene just can’t go without.

Emerging from the relatively understated pastures and prairies of Coeur d’Alene in early 2013, to say Extortionist have been on a journey since their inception would be an understatement. With "The Black Sheep" instantly earning them notoriety with its combination of feral grooves and eviscerating breakdowns, Extortionist proved themselves early on as prodigal masters of all things punishingly heavy. As the band grew and gained more experience on the road in light of the success of their debut EP, their style and dynamic grew as well. After nearly four years of touring and writing, Extortionist would unleash 'The Decline' in 2017, a band that saw their breed of brutalizing deathcore hybridized with riff-heavy metalcore and more introspective lyrics that tackled suicidal ideation and substance abuse. 'The Decline' was met with immense critical praise and continued to open up larger opportunities for the Northwestern act, ultimately earning them multiple co-headlining tours from coast to coast, and a spot on Stay Sick Records, alongside other up-and-coming heavyweights like SPITE and Bodysnatcher. Barely a year and a half after their signing, the band announced their sophomore full-length release, 'Sever the Cord', which saw them experimenting with the inclusion of grunge and alternative influences, adding even more depth and grit to their dynamic. Their sophomore album earned them not only critical acclaim, but nationwide tours alongside The Browning, Betraying the Martyrs, Lorna Shore and First Blood. 'Sever the Cord' was followed shortly thereafter by an eponymous EP which saw them diving deeper into a more exploratory realm of metalcore, colliding ferocious riffs into moments of warm, nostalgic melody. While their self-titled release was widely heralded as the band’s strongest work to date, was declared their Swan Song, as in the weeks that followed towards the back-end of Summer 2019, Extortionist announced their dissolution.

That isn’t the end of Extortionist’s story, however. As 2019 gave way into 2020 and the chaotic months that followed, the heavy music community felt the band’s absence all too strongly. In the early months of 2021, Extortionist announced their return with a series of shows in Spokane, Washington alongside AVOID and Seconds Ago as well as a new single, “Once More in Torment”. Once more highlighting the seamless blend of raunchy aggression and groove-heavy catchiness that only Extortionist can provide, the band’s comeback track is a strong reminder of just how missed they were throughout their nearly two-year absence. Frontman and founding member Benjamin Hoagland states “This is the best place we’ve ever been in as a band...Extortionist lives, and we’re here to stay.” Indeed, with a full-length record in the works and a ferocious return to live performance already underway, it would seem that Exortionist’s relative break was only a brief moment with which to collect themselves before reasserting their dominance over the contemporary metalcore scene. - Connor Welsh

See the band across North America on the Angels & Villains Tour with Born of Osiris, Attila, Traitors, and Not Enough Space. For ticket information, please click here.

The Angels & Villains Tour USA 2024:

4/25 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl

4/26 - Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse

4/27 - Tampa, FL @ The Ritz

4/29 - Baton Rouge, LA @ Varsity Theater

5/01 - Corpus Christi, TX @ House of Rock

5/03 - Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th St. Collective

5/04 - Austin, TX @ Come and Take It Live

5/05 - San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger

5/07 - Albuquerque, NM @ El Rey Theater

5/08 - Mesa, AZ @ Nile Theater

5/09 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues

5/10 - Pomona, CA @ The Glass House

5/11 - Los Angeles, CA @ 1720

5/12 - San Francisco, CA @ Regency Ballroom

5/14 - Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom

5/15 - Seattle, WA @ The Showbox

5/17 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot

5/18 - Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre

5/20 - St. Lous, MO @ Red Flag

5/21 - Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre

5/22 - Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater

5/23 - Davenport, IA @ Capitol Theater

5/24 - Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave II

5/25 - Chicago, IL @ Bottom Lounge

5/26 - Pontiac, MI @ Crofoot Ballroom

HAMMERFALL ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM, 'AVENGE THE FALLEN,' FOR AUGUST

April 25, 2024

Today, HAMMERFALL proudly announce their 13th studio album Avenge The Fallen, which will be released on August 9th via Nuclear Blast Records.

That’s right, less than a year after taking the final bow of the “United Forces” tour, the quintet of guitarist Oscar Dronjak, singer Joacim Cans, bass player Fredrik Larsson, guitarist Pontus Norgen, and drummer David Wallin are back with ten brand new solid pieces of classic heavy metal.

“This is our 13th album”, Joacim Cans says with pride. “How do you still stay relevant after 13 albums? It’s very much like the opening line to the song ´Avenge The Fallen´: “What is the worst, be the one who died, or be the one who survived.”

Think about it, because it is a tough question”.

He continues, “Do we want to be a band who releases new music just for the sole reason of getting out on the road again or do we want to keep pushing and challenging ourselves? In times where people have less and less attention span, we still think in the form of full length albums. A few good songs don’t make a strong album. A strong album comes from an album full a great songs and that’s what we’re delivering with Avenge The Fallen.”

To give a taste of what awaits the fans, the band unleashes the first single and video ´Hail To The King´. A song that was born on the road....

“I began working on ´Hail To The King´ while on tour in the US with Helloween”, Oscar Dronjak recalls. “By the end of the tour, I was getting close to wrapping the song up, so straight after the Los Angeles gig I headed to the bus where I worked like a mad man to get the last pieces together. That turned out to be the show where one of my favourite wrestlers, Chris Jericho, came to visit. It was also the show where Fredrik met his idol Frank Bello from Anthrax and Joacim met Jay Ruston, producer for Armored Saints, Avatar, Anthrax, Corey Taylor and more and whom after this meeting agreed to produce the vocals for ´Avenge The Fallen´! I missed all that, but I at least got a great song out of it, haha!”

Stream ´Hail To The King´: https://hammerfall.bfan.link/HTTK.ema

Pre-order / Pre-save the album: https://hammerfall.bfan.link/avenge-the-fallen.ema

Avenge The Fallen comes in following formats:

- CD Jewel Case
- CD Digipack w/signed poster
- 1 LP Gatefold Gold Vinyl
- 1 LP Gatefold Purple Vinyl
- 1LP Gatefold, Splatter Vinyl (Sweden Rock Exclusive)

Catch HAMMERFALL live in 2024:

19.04. MX Mexico City – Sala Urbana

20.04. CO Bogota – Auditorio Mayor Cun

23.04. CL Santiago - Teleton

25.04. BA Brasilia – Toinha

27.04. BA Sao Paulo – Summer Breeze

30.04. USA Harrisburg – Midtown Arts Center

01.05. USA Montclair – The Wellmont Theater

02.05. USA Albany – Empire Underground

03.05. USA Columbus – The Bluestone

04.05. USA St. Louis – Delmar Hall

06.05. USA Fort Worth - Tannahill's Tavern & Music Hall

07.05. USA San Antonio – Vibes Event Center

09.05. USA Albuquerque – El Rey Theater

10.05. USA Tuscon - Encore

11.05. USA Anaheim - City National Grove of Anaheim

12.05. USA Las Vegas – House of Blues

14.05. USA Denver - Summit

16.05 USA St. Paul – Myth Live

17.05. USA Milwaukee – Milwaukee Metal Fest

18.05. USA Cleveland – House of Blues

19.05. USA Flint – The Machine Shop

20.05. USA Mc Kees Rocks – Roxian Theatre

21.05. USA Richmond – The National

23.05. USA Cincinnati - Bogart´s

24.05. USA Atlanta – The Masquerade (Heaven)

25.05. USA St Peterburg – Jannus Live

05.-08.06. SE Norje – Sweden Rock Festival

06.06. NO Trondheim – Trondheim Rocks

14.06. ES Zamora - Z-fest

20.06. DK Copenhagen - Copenhell

27.06. SL Snina - Rock Pod Kamenon

03.-06.07. DE Ballenstedt – Rock Hartz

12.07. BG Midalidare Estate, Chirpan - Midalidare Rock

10.08. FI Helsinki – Hellsinki Metal Fest

04.10. DE Hamburg – Barclays Arena

05.10. NL Amsterdam – AFAS Live

Line-up:
Joacim Cans - vocals
Oscar Dronjak - guitar
Fredrik Larsson - bass
Pontus Norgen - guitar
David Wallin – drums

HOMEPAGE: LINK
FACEBOOK: LINK
INSTAGRAM: LINK
TWITTER: N/A

Portland-based collective Federale announce new album, preview the lead track 'Heaven Forgive Me'

April 25, 2024

“Equal parts Ennio Morricone, Lee Hazelwood, and Nick Cave with a touch of Chris Isaak’s less romantic side… few if any artists are brave and/or creative enough to channel this ghostly, often ominous vibe into moving, sensual and stirring music” ~ American Songwriter

"Their most immersive and varied album to date, Collin Hegna and his merry band of music-makers take us on a fantastic journey... and on ‘Heaven Forgive Me’, Hegna channels the post-punk vibes of such bands as The Church, Pink Turns Blue and The Mission to our delight" ~ The Spill Magazine

Portland-based outfit Federale have announced they will release their new 'Reverb & Seduction' album via Jealous Butcher Records in summer. Ahead of this, these legendary songcrafters present the lead track 'Heaven Forgive Me', which features Alex Maas of The Black Angels on backing vocals.

Their sixth studio album, 'Reverb & Seduction' marks the band’s twentieth anniversary. The band’s most immersive and varied album to date, with do-it-all frontman Collin Hegna at the height of his powers, this is a tour-de-force road trip from psych rock to country duets, never straying too far from the spaghetti western roots that inspired the band many blood-moons ago.

Over the past two decades, Federale has carved out a unique niche within the indie music landscape, blending their signature spaghetti-Western instrumental sound with increasing doses of moody vocal arrangements in the spirit of Lee Hazlewood and late-period Leonard Cohen. Through it all, songwriter and lead singer Collin Hegna – who also spent the last 20 years as a dues-paying member of The Brian Jonestown Massacre – maintains a strictly retro vibe. Federale's records have always sounded period-correct for an alternate-universe 1971, where rock and roll never caught on.

"Each Federale release has sought to embrace influences ever farther afield from the band’s original concept as an ode to Spaghetti Western film music. But one aesthetic constant (as far as non-instrumental songs go) has been the dark, narrative driven folk ballad," says Collin Hegna.

"The goal with 'Heaven Forgive Me' was to bridge the gap between the yarn casting style of Lee Hazlewood and the bleak New Wave anthems of Depeche Mode. Contrastingly, the arrangement of the song leans heavily on the aesthetics of 70’s Italian horror soundtracks, such as Goblin and Fabio Frizzi."

Comprised of 10 tracks, 'Reverb & Seduction' was recorded at Revolver Studios in Portland and engineered by Collin Hegna, Matt Thomson and Andrew Joslyn, who boasts five 5 Grammy Award winning albums. Mixed by Jeff Stuart Saltzman (The Black Keys, The High Violets), Matt Thomson and Collin Hegna, this album was mastered by Adam Gonsalves at Telegraph Mastering.

These new musical homages are complemented by a new lineup of well-known Portland rock-scene vets, including talents from The Shivas, Roselit Bone, Dandy Warhols, Rogue Wave and Delines. Going forward, Federale expects to fully embrace the role of a working, touring band, starting with a West Coast tour timed to coincide with the new record's July release. A European tour will follow in late fall 2024.

As of April 24, 'Heaven Forgive Me' is available everywhere digitally, including Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Bandcamp. The full 'Reverb & Seduction' album, which can be pre-ordered now, will be released on July 12 via Jealous Butcher Records, available on CD and vinyl wherever fine records are sold.

SINGLE CREDITS
Written, arranged and produced by Collin Hegna
Mixed by Matt Thomson & Collin Hegna
Mastered by Adam Gonsalves at Telegraph Mastering
Recording Engineering - Collin Hegna, Matt Thomson, Andrew Joslyn
Recorded at Revolver Studios in Portland, OR
Pat Spurgeon - drums
Jared Molyneux - guitar
Alex Maas - additional vocals
Collin Hegna - all other Instruments, percussion & vocals
Released by Jealous Butcher Records
Management: Andy Ross @ Exit Strategy Productions
Publicity: Shauna McLarnon @ Shameless Promotion PR

Sonic Universe (Feat. Corey Glover of Living Colour) Drop "It Is What It Is" Video

April 25, 2024

Corey Glover and Sonic Universe will drop their debut album It Is What It Is on May 10. Pre-order it here.

The band combines the forces of the Grammy Award-winning lead singer of Living Colour and Adrenaline Mob guitarist and founding member Mike Orlando.

Today, they share the video for the album's title track "It Is What It Is."

Watch it below.

Complemented by the rhythm section of bassist Booker King and drummer Taykwuan Jackson, Glover and Orlando soar over what the singer called "a tight, tight, tight groove."

Glover continues, "The whole idea is that in order to make something new, you have to destroy the old. We do everything we can to change things, but the only way that you can change things is to believe."

"Right now / Right here/ Is all that it is / We lie / We try / It's all we can give."

"It Is What It Is" is Glover and Sonic Universe giving their all to make a break with the past and create something new and honest.

"The band is killing it on this," Glover concludes. "It's a real gut-punch kind of sound."

Iodine to Release Drought's Debut "EP" This June

April 25, 2024

"With a sonic palette pulling from both classic screamo and post-hardcore, Drought are clearly aiming to capture a certain spirit." — No Echo

DROUGHT believe a better world is possible.

The Bay Area band pulls inspiration from their personal lives and the spaces the members inhabit, harkening back to the intimate DIY spaces where communities are built and confessional songwriting meets crowds that take part in their emotional catharsis. Their spirited performances have fostered new fans across the West Coast.

This quintet of hardcore veterans formed in 2022, pulling from their diverse musical influences and ethnic identities to push a familiar sound in new directions. Although some members spent over a decade away from music, they were magnetically drawn back in!

Their debut, the 3-song EP, recorded with Ryan Ellery (Mom Jeans, Self Defense Family), was issued digitally. Now, it will be released in physical form for the first time ever on June 14 via Iodine Recordings. It will be limited to 300 copies. Pre-order EP here.

LISTEN HERE

"This EP is an ode to transformation and growth," the band shares. "None of us are the traditional preachy or dogmatic hardcore kids — we've had our own inner demons. So we wrote these songs for our younger selves. To let us know it's okay to be imperfect. And that the promise of a safer, more inclusive DIY scene is only possible if we can reflect, grow, and change. A better world is possible and it begins at home."

EP explores the struggles of loss and the rites of adulthood in increasingly precarious times. The band wrote "Oh Javelin," for instance, while guitarist RJ Rabe was battling cancer and drummer Ray Avila's father was ill, grappling with the existential question of how we spend our short lives.

Upon digital release in 2023, the three-track EP turned more than a few heads with its familiar-yet-wholly-new stylings perfect for fans of bands like Touché Amoré, Piano Becomes the Teeth, and mewithoutYou.

"When I was young, nothing felt more comforting than playing a record, poring over the liner notes and feeling less alone," says vocalist Viggy Ram. "And while releasing it digitally was exciting, it felt fleeting. When someone gets a record or goes to a show, you're actually giving your art to them—the ephemeral becomes real. With this vinyl release, we hope these songs keep you company when you need them to."

DROUGHT ARE:
Viggy Ram — Vocals
Ray Avila — Drums
RJ Rabe — Guitar
Eric Nakano — Guitar
Dev Bleyle — Bass

Bodysnatcher Announce Digital Release Of New EP 'Vile Conduct' Out September 3 via MNRK Heavy

April 24, 2024

Bodysnatcher fans, rejoice! Today, the heavy Floridian quartet has announced the eagerly anticipated upcoming digital release of their new EP 'Vile Conduct', out Friday, September 3 via MNRK Heavy. In celebration of the news, the band has released their latest single "Severed" and the accompanying official music video. When asked about the inspiration behind today's drop, Bodysnatcher vocalist Kyle Medina commented:

“The track "Severed" is about coming to terms with the sour feelings of resentment, hatred, anger, or betrayal, and completely and utterly letting go. Becoming fed up and accepting of these feelings is when you can finally let go and no longer even care for their existence, which is the best revenge.”

The band previously unleashed "Murder8" featuring Hatebreed's Jamey Jasta and announced an early vinyl-only release of 'Vile Conduct' for Record Store Day this past weekend at participating locations (linked here for more info). Pre-save 'Vile Conduct' here, and watch the music video for "Severed" below.

The band are wrapping up the final dates of the Dedication To Flesh co-headlining run across the EU with SPITE, Boundaries, and Mouth For War. North American fans will then have their chance to see the band on The Common Enemies co-headlining tour also alongside SPITE, with Thrown, Mouth For War, PSYCHO-FRAME, and CELL kicking off on May 9. For ticket information please click here, and be sure to stay tuned for more Bodysnatcher news coming soon.

The Common Enemies Tour 2024 North American Dates:

May 09 – Daytona Beach, FL @ Welcome to Rockville

May 10 – Destin, FL @ Club LA

May 11 – Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade

May 12 – Nashville, TN @ Eastside Bowl

May 14 – Charleston, SC @ Music Farm

May 15 – Charlotte, NC @ The Underground

May 16 – Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage

May 17 – New Kensington, PA @ Preserving Hardcore

May 18 – Columbus, OH @ Sonic Temple Festival

May 19 – Harrisburg, PA @ Midtown Arts Center

May 20 – New York City, NY @ Irving Plaza

May 21 – Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer

May 22 – Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club

May 24 – Grand Rapids, MI @ Elevation

May 25 – Chicago, IL @ House of Blues

May 26 – Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater

May 28 – Des Moines, IA @ Wooly’s

May 29 – St Louis, MO @ Red Flag

May 30 – Lawrence, KS @ The Granada

May 31 – Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall

Jun 01 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex

Jun 03 – Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre

Jun 04 – Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile

Jun 06 – Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades

Jun 07 – Pomona, CA @ The Glasshouse

Jun 08 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues

Jun 09 – Mesa, AZ @ The Nile Theater

Jun 11 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues

Jun 12 – San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center

Jun 13 – Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall

Jun 14 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Beer City Music Hall

Jun 15 – Little Rock, AR @ The Hall

Jun 16 – New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues

Drawing their name from the infamous Plainfield Ghoul, Ed Gein, Bodysnatcher know a thing or two about darkness, brutality and aggression. Since their 2014 inception in Melbourne, Florida, Bodysnatcher have been bringing nothing but the finest in furious, extreme music. Combining crushing breakdowns with eerie ambience, scathing riffs and grisly grooves, the band have become synonymous with “heavy,” invoking violence in every city they happen to visit, spawning mosh pits that leave nothing but craters in their wake.

With each release, Bodysnatcher have added depth to their dynamic, proving they are an ever-growing and changing act with the singular purpose of absolutely obliterating the listener. In 2015, mere months after their formation, the act exploded into the worldwide underground with the release of their debut EP, Abandonment. Considered one of the “Rushmore” releases of the American Downtempo wave, Abandonment took Bodysnatcher around the country, delivering breakdowns and broken bones to venues from Southern Florida to California. The band’s debut full length that followed, Death of Me (Stay Sick Records), saw the band mature from their modest downtempo roots into something more diverse and devastating, incorporating a blend of contemporary metal and hardcore elements to create something that saw Bodysnatcher start to blur conventional genre lines. Death of Me would skyrocket the band’s notoriety even higher, including a headlining west coast tour with Extortionist (Unique Leader Records) in support. Almost immediately after the release of Death of Me, Bodysnatcher underwent a significant lineup change, bringing aboard Chris Whited (King Conquer, 1776 Recordings) as percussionist and producer alongside Kyle Carter (Beacons) and Kyle Shope (Float Face Down) on guitar and bass respectively. With all three of them working alongside the titanic range and unmistakable vitriol of frontman Kyle Medina as songwriters, a deluxe re-release of their debut LP featuring five all-new songs followed not long after the line-up was cemented. Those songs segued Bodysnatcher into a new sound and style that would not full materialize until their two follow up releases, This Heavy Void (2020) and Bleed-Abide (2022). These records together would not only see the band signing with premier heavy music label MNRK Heavy, but would also highlight the band’s unique ability to blend harrowingly personal tales of love and loss with blistering aggression. Between This Heavy Void’s “Twelve/Seventeen” and Bleed-Abide’s “Smashed Perception,” the band seemed to encompass the alpha and omega of all things eviscerating—emotionally or, well, literally.

Since Bleed-Abide, Bodysnatcher have continued their tireless grind, touring across the country with the likes of AngelMaker, Hatebreed, Dying Fetus, Emmure, We Came as Romans and more—and spending plenty of time inoculating overseas lands with their unique concoction of crushing brutality as well. 2024 witnesses the band depart for not one, but two colossal ventures with former label mates SPITE—across both Europe and the continental United States.

From their earnest beginnings as one of the United States’ premiere exporters of bludgeoning, beefy breakdowns to now one of the country’s most renowned heavy music exports, Bodysnatcher are a peerless example of hard work, dedication and—of course—devastating heaviness. - Connor Welsh

Insanity Alert Honor Queen with New Single

April 24, 2024

Some metalheads are sticklers for the rules, but no cow is too sacred for Insanity Alert. On their new EP, the Austrian pranksters tear through a four-pack of familiar classics. But while the first single from Moshemian Thrashody yanked the chain of a saxy pop icon, the title track crashes classic rock's night at the opera with a whole clown car full of crossover thrash hijinks.

Watch the hi(gh)larious video for "Moshemian Thrashody" below.

Moshemian Thrashody comes out May 17 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order:https://shop.season-of-mist.com/list/insanity-alert-moshemian-thrashody

Pre-save: https://orcd.co/moshemianthrashodypresave

For Insanity Alert, spoofing "Bohemian Rhapsody" is like bagging a white whale. Scan to any classic rock station and you'll be hard-pressed to find another song that combines balladry bombast, vocal theatrics and arena rock fist pumps with the fatalism of a French novel.

"We think of 'Moshemian Thrashody' as a tribute to the greatness of the original", says Heavy Kevy, the band's moshpit maestro. "Mixing a song that's as over-the-top as 'Bohemian Rhapsody' with our blend of speed, fun and brutal weirdness just feels right".

If you're coming for Queen, then you best not miss. After all, who hasn't suffered some tone-deaf soul doing the Fandango during bar karaoke? Of course, Insanity Alert check all the necessary boxes. Maybe those leather pants are a pinch tight, but the Wayne's World cosplay is a fitting homage.

But the band hit all the right notes, too. The riffs thrash. The D-beats chug. As if by some especially potent magic mushroom, Galileo is transformed into Ronnie James Dio. Heck, the guys even manage to keep a straight face long enough for the squeaky-clean a cappella parts.

"So you think I'm a stoner that never complies?", Heavy Kevy spits as if shooting a snot rocket. Now, that's not far from the truth. But everybody knows that thrashers do it better. Amidst double bass flurries that pop like fireworks, Dave of Death launches into a climactic guitar solo with the reckless abandon of doing a keg stand in the mosh pit.

On "Moshemian Thrashody", Insanity Alert go anywhere the weed blows.

The video for "Moshemian Thrashody" was produced, filmed and edited by Max "Mugs" Raggl in Innsbruck, Austria ( www.mugs.at ).

The concept was created by Insanity Alert.

"Maddening and powerful thrash from guys who understand the sound and culture" - Metal Injection

"Experts in crafting immense and blistering fun" - Distorted Sound

"Heavy, fast, old-school and right in your face" - Grimm Gent

"They make quite a noise...combining retro thrash with their own boozy brand of skateboarding-crossover thrash which hits at such a speed that by the time you've slapped the disc on you're already getting back off your arse to play it again" - Metal Forces

[Movie trailer voice] In a world that’s plagued by war, natural disasters and TikTok dance challenges, one band are hell-bent on partying like there’s no tomorrow. Sure, the hangovers might hit a little harder now that they’re four albums in. But on Moshemian Thrashody, Insanity Alert are still nothing but a good time.

Ski parties visit Austria for its powdered slopes, but when Insanity Alert banded together from around Innsbruck in 2011, these adrenaline junkies had a different, more dangerous type of shredding in mind. Their destructive appetite for ‘80s crossover thrash is only rivaled by an unquenchable thirst for ice-cold beer.

While under the influence of older party monsters like Suicidal Tendencies and Municipal Waste, Insanity Alert roll their riffs with the same strand of humor as labelmates Cannabis Corpse. Their songs parody everyone from perennial punching bags like David Guetta and Milli Vanilli to sacred cows Iron Maiden.

“We think of our renditions as tributes to the greatness of the original songs”, the band says. “Mixing their greatness with our blend of speed, fun, brutality and weirdness just feels right.

On the strength of their demo tape alone, Insanity Alert sent skate punks and metalheads running into the pit. First Diagnosis was quickly confirmed by follow-up EP Second Opinion. Critics properly diagnosed their self-titled full-length as a much-needed dose of derangement, but the band has upped their prescription of snot-nosed speed and grinding d-beats with each release.

Moshburger was served up in 2016 while Insanity Alert were on tour with Hatebreed, Madball, Terror and Power Trip. They then shared a 666-Pack with festivalgoers at Wacken Open Air. With names like Slapmaster Puke and The Inphiltrator, this band will go to comically absurd lengths just to jump into the circle pit with their fans -- so long as there’s a full fridge and good bud(s) waiting backstage. When Insanity Alert played the main stage at Hellfest in 2019, Dave of the Death could barely feel his fretting hand after taking one heck of a stage dive the night before.

Moshemian Thrashody keeps the festivities going with new parodies of familiar classics like Guns N’ Roses and Iron Maiden. One might surprise you, though. Lead single “Beerless Fiesta” gives the crossover thrash treatment to (checks notes) George Michael? Insanity Alert aren’t going into mosh retirement anytime soon, though. The title track sees Queen’s theatrics and raises it with a clown car full of hijinks, including a Hauwitzer guitar solo that pops off like a bottle of champagne. Don Melanzani chugs down blast beats as the band joins in an acapella gang chant about “letting it snow” with Santa Claus that’s rowdier than a German beer hall.

“These are some killer tunes that we threw in our drunken 420 blender”, says Heavy Kevy. “Moshemian Thrashody rides the thin line between familiar and super awkward – like seeing your old grandpa in the mosh pit or masturbating for the first time with your other hand”.

After almost 15 years of bringing crossover thrash to party animals everywhere, Insanity Alert will still go anywhere the weed blows.

Line-up
Heavy Kevy - Vocals
Don Melanzani - Drums
The Inphiltrator - Guitar
The Dave of Death - Guitar
Slapmaster Puke: Bass

Guest appearances
"Welcome to the Moshpit" - Hauwitzer (guitar solo)

Recording Studio
Subsound Station (Telfs, Austria)

Producer
Matthias Mayr

Mixing
Andy Reinhardt

Mastering
Andy Reinhardt

Cover art
James Callahan / Barf Comics

Pre-order: https://shop.season-of-mist.com/list/insanity-alert-moshemian-thrashody
Pre-save: https://orcd.co/moshemianthrashodypresave

Links
https://www.facebook.com/insanityalert
https://www.instagram.com/insanityalert/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw79GR8zx8EsZ13DIwhye5g

Available formats
Digital Download
CD
10" Vinyl - Black
10" Vinyl - Colored (Translucent Turquoise)

U.S. TOUR: Creeping Death, In Flames, Gatecreeper

April 24, 2024

CREEPING DEATH
SUPPORTING IN FLAMES
TOUR IN MAY

Texas death bringers CREEPING DEATH will support In Flames on their upcoming US headlining run. The three-week journey commences next week on May 1st in Portland, Maine and runs through May 26th in Dallas, Texas. Additional support will be provided by Gatecreeper.
5/01/2024 State Theatre - Portland, ME
5/02/2024 Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom - Hampton Beach, NH
5/03/2024 Warsaw - Brooklyn, NY
5/04/2024 The Queen - Wilmington, DE
5/05/2024 The Norva - Norfolk, VA
5/07/2024 Charleston Music Hall - Charleston, SC
5/08/2024 Piedmont Hall - Greensboro, NC
5/09/2024 Buckhead - Atlanta, GA
5/11/2024 The Handlebar - Pensacola, FL * no In Flames
5/12/2024 Mars Music Hall - Huntsville, AL
5/14/2024 Marathon Music Works - Nashville, TN
5/16/2024 Mr. Small's Theatre - Pittsburgh, PA
5/17/2024 The Town Ballroom - Buffalo, NY
5/19/2024 Milwaukee Metal Fest - Milwaukee, WI
5/21/2024 St. Andrews - Detroit, MI
5/22/2024 The Hawthorn - St. Louis, MO
5/23/2024 Diamond Ballroom - Oklahoma City, OK
5/24/2024 Emo's - Austin, TX
5/25/2024 House Of Blues - Houston, TX
5/26/2024 House Of Blues - Dallas, TX
GET TICKET INFORMATION HERE
SEE ALL CREEPING DEATH MUSIC + MERCH

In Hearts Wake Announce New Album "Incarnation" + Share "Hollow Bone" Video

April 24, 2024

Today, Australian metalcore icons In Hearts Wake manifest a brand new chapter, announcing their sixth studio album, Incarnation, which will be released on July 12 via UNFD. Pre-order it here.

The news follows the recent bittersweet announcement of long-time bassist and vocalist Kyle Erich's departure.

Vocalist Jake Taylor shares, "INCARNATION is the shadow counterpart and sequel to the band's debut album DIVINATION, with each song inspired by the meaning and ideals of a particular Major Arcana Tarot card. There are 22 Major Arcana Tarot cards in every deck and 11 tracks on each record, bringing the vision to completion 12 years later."

He continues, "But much like a coin with two sides, cards flipped upside down deliver the reversed meaning. Polarized in every way, INCARNATION explores the dark underbelly to mirror and stand diametrically opposite to DIVINATION."

In Hearts Wake have also dropped an official Incarnation website that fans can visit throughout the album rollout for access to behind the scenes, sneak peaks at new music, exclusive info, and Incarnation announcements. For more info, visit here.

The anticipated follow up to 2020's Kaliyuga, which debuted at #3 on the ARIA Album Charts, Incarnation is equally a powerful yet poignant step forward for the Byron Bay-hailing group, heralded today by the release of the fiery new single "Hollow Bone (plɹoʍ ǝɥʇ)." Listen here. Watch the video below.

Balancing spitfire guitars and searing textures, "Hollow Bone" is a gripping ride that ricochets with polish and heaving dexterity, while also ultimately soldering the In Hearts Wake transformative spirit as vocalist Jake Taylor bellows "This cage is not my home."

"Going through a death-of-sorts with Kyle having left the band, 'Hollow Bone' became our reclamation anthem for the band to live on," In Hearts Wake share. "Since high school we’ve given everything and we weren’t about to give up. Not yet…"

They continue, "Picking up the microphone as a group together for the first time we delivered a melodic chorus. We used actual bones as percussive instruments – symbolic of death's transformation. This track acting as our stake in the ground. What would you die for?!"

Hailing from Byron Bay and now one of the leading acts in the Australian heavy scene, In Hearts Wake first roared into view via their 2012 debut album Divination; a tarot-inspired release, praised for its memorable breakdowns, melodic hooks, taut execution, and a sea of features. Remaining a fan-favorite to this day, Divination also set the stage for a horde of headline shows, international tours, appearances at Soundwave Festival, UNIFY Gathering, Groovin The Moo, and beyond for In Hearts Wake.

Having released five hard-hitting albums, including 2014's Earthwalker, 2015's Skydancer, 2017's Ark and 2020's Kaliyuga, In Hearts Wake also fuse themes of social and environmental justice into their palpitating brand of metalcore, with millions of streams and a dedicated fanbase across the globe flourishing alongside the band's environmental endeavors, with the latter witnessed most recently via the 2022 feature-length documentary Green Is The New Black.

Boasting an ARIA Award-nominated soundtrack, Green Is The New Black focused on the making of Kaliyuga and In Hearts Wake's successful efforts to carbon offset the entire recording process. Critically-acclaimed, the film also explored the music industry's relationship to the environment, generating an important conversation and viable solutions for the creative arts against the odds of the pandemic years.

Recently appearing at UNIFY Off The Record in 2023 and wowing audiences across Australia with their Decade Of Divination tour last year, In Hearts Wake now turn their gaze to a brand new album in 2024, and are also set to celebrate and farewell their journey to date with long-time bassist and vocalist Kyle Erich this September with a special Australian headline run that spans Newcastle, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth.

In conjunction with announcing Erich's departure, In Hearts Wake also recently released a new single "Farewell," with the track fittingly bringing to a close the monumental chapter for Erich and In Hearts Wake.

NYC post-punk duo Frenchy and the Punk present 'Hypnotized', first taste of their eighth album.

April 24, 2024

"Explosive, subdued, confrontational, soothing, spikey and accessible" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"Captivating with a sense of adventure... always injects a silver lining into their dusky post-punk" ~ The Spill Magazine

"Penetrating psych-soaked post-punk... Brimming with their signature cinematic drama and that unforgettable voice" ~ Global Texan Chronicles

"An inspiriting slice of post punk hued, new wave nurtured rock ‘n’ roll... under the skin and hungrily stirring the imagination in a flash" ~ Ringmaster Review

NYC-based post-punk duo Frenchy and the Punk present 'Hypnotized', a seductive dance floor romp. This is the first taste of their eighth album 'Midnight Garden', released via EA Recordings, which follows their critically-acclaimed 'Zen Ghost' album and Siouxsie tribute 'Cities In Dust'.

This collection bursts with dance grooves, guitar-driven upbeat melodies and soaring vocals. Written in France and the USA, this post-punk, new wave and dark alternative-drenched cauldron of songs address themes ranging from the gothic reimagining of the garden of eden, rising from the ashes and starting over, to socio-political commentary,

Formed in 2005, Frenchy and the Punk is vocalist, percussionist and lyricist Samantha Stephenson and guitarist-composer Scott Helland, co-founder of Deep Wound (with Dinosaur Jr. icons J Mascis and Lou Barlow) and Outpatients. Named one of the Top 25 duos in the US by Yahoo! Music, they profess a vivid blend of post-punk, dark folk, new wave, goth and punk cabaret. Helland is also known for his exceptional solo music project Guitarmy of One.

On 'Midnight Garden', Stephenson hits her stride - lyrically, vocally and with the synth sounds peppering the album. Helland shows his knack for infectious, and often euphoric, guitar melodies, propelling these tracks and perfectly complementing Frenchy's vocals.

"Scott came up with the guitar riff for 'Hypnotized' back in 2017. We were staying in a hotel in Atlantic City in-between tour stops. The hotel dated back to the 1930s with beautiful art-deco style decor. It was completely deserted and had an eerie presence - it was definitely haunted. We stumbled upon a lounge area looking over the ocean with a grand piano and spent the afternoon, with the place to ourselves, playing and coming up with song ideas. I didn’t like any lyrics that I was coming up with for that particular riff and it got shelved," explains Samantha Stephenson.

"Once in a while, I’d go back to it but it wasn’t until this past January, seven years later, that it finally took shape. We went to an art opening where photographer and mixed media artist Alice Teeple was showing her ‘Solve Et Coagula’ exhibit. I was very drawn to a book she had created with photographs and French text that she told me was inspired by the French Hypnotist Jean-Martin Charcot and I ended up falling down the Charcot rabbit hole. We were in the middle of working on the new album and I was revisiting that guitar riff, and the hypnosis theme found its way into the song, fitting perfectly after all those years. The theme of hypnosis is a double-edged sword. In one respect, it’s something that feels peaceful and sensual; in another, it feels unnerving in its ability to placate and overpower into subjugation."

Drawing inspiration from post-punk legends like The Cure, the upbeat energy and percussive textures of Adam and the Ants, the bewitching mystique of Siouxsie and the Banshees, and the quirky charm of The B-52's, they have crafted a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic delivered in an unorthodox way.

About 'Hypnotized, Scott Helland says, "The song sprung from the opening grungy bass line that I played with an electro-acoustic hybrid guitar through octave and distortion pedals. The groove pulses beneath Samantha’s soaring vocals and lets up occasionally to allow me to growl the word "Hypnotized". I love that it’s a confounding track in that it hypnotizes you to move. We love to work with contrasts".

Over the years, the duo has forged their own distinct path, touring across the US and Europe with their artful two-person powerhouse of sound. To date, they've performed with Dead Can Dance's Peter Ulrich and Dresden Dolls' Brian Viglione, Thomas Dolby, Dinosaur Jr., The World Inferno Friendship Society, Rasputina, Cruxshadows, Aurelio Voltaire and Faun.

As of April 25, 'Hypnotized' will be available everywhere, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. On June 28, the 'Midnight Garden' album will be released on vinyl, CD and digitally. Until April 30, the album can be ordered through the band's Kickstarter campaign. Bookended by US tour dates on either end, the UK wing of their tour kicks off on May 21, when they play Bristol's Exchange with Miranda Sex Garden. American and UK tickets can be found online.

CREDITS
Samantha Stephenson - Vocals, Percussion, Keyboard
Scott Helland - Guitar, Bass, Drums and Drum Programming
Recorded at Split Rock Studios (New Paltz, NY)
Recorded & mixed by Jason Sarubbi
Mastered by Martin Bowes at The Cage (Coventry UK)
Written, performed and produced by Frenchy and the Punk
Single artwork by Samantha Stephenson
Artist photos by Nicola Bee

TOUR DATES
APR 25 Greenbelt, MD - New Deal Cafe
APR 27/28 Holly Springs, NC - Festival of Legends
APR 30 Richmond, VA - Black Iris Social Club
MAY 4 Washington, NJ - Rock n Roll SteamFest
MAY 18 Milton, PA - Reign of Terror Presents: World of Fae
MAY 19 Berkeley Springs, WV - Bringing in the May
MAY 21 Bristol, UK - The Exchange (with Miranda Sex Garden)
JUN 1 Wareham UK - Alice’s Wicked Tea Party
JUN 7 Morecambe, UK - A Splendid Day Out Festival
JUN 8 Newcastle, UK - Little Buildings
JUN 9 Edinburgh, UK - Banshee Labyrinth
JUN 14 Leicester, UK - Firebug
JUN 15 London, UK - Dublin Castle
JUN 17 Oxford, UK - Botley Taproom
JUN 22 Salem, MA - Darq Salem
JUL 11 Pomeroy, OH - Starwood Festival
JUL 13 Pittsburgh, PA - TBA
JUL 14 Columbus, OH - Dirty Dungarees Alt Music Space
JUL 17 Cincinnati, OH - The Comet
JUL 18 Detroit, MI - Corktown Tavern
JUL 19 Akron, OH - Buzzbin
JUL 20 Maple Heights, OH - Maple Grove Tavern
JUL 21 Dayton, OH - Blind Bob’s
JUL 23 St Louis, MO - Crack Fox
JUL 25 Cleveland, OH - Wizbang Theater
JUL 26 Sherman, NY - Sirius Rising Festival
SEPT 6 Pittsburgh, PA - Pitts Art Fest
SEPT 22 York, PA - Enchanted Festival
SEPT 26 Dark Castle Festival, Louisville, KY
OCT 5/6 Attleboro, MA - Jewelry City Festival
OCT 12 Upper Lake, CA - Hexenfest
OCT 25 Shepherdstown, WV - TBA
NOV 16 Baltimore, MD - Fairy Scary Ball

Keep up with Frenchy and the Punk
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BATTLE BEAST- release single 'Master of Illusion (Live In Helsinki 2023)'

April 24, 2024

Exciting news from Finnish metal masters BATTLE BEAST!

The band is happy to release today their new live single 'Master of Illusion (Live in Helsinki 2023)' including the live video. After releasing their latest studio album Circus of Doom in 2022, BATTLE BEAST have proved what a force they are live and thus underpinned the success of the album even further. This version of 'Master of Illusion' was recorded on January 27th, 2023 at their sold-out headline show in front of over 3000 people at the Helsinki Ice Hall, and clearly shows why the band is captivating more and more people.

Vocalist Noora Louhimo quotes excited:

”We are beyond excited to share with you this live single, celebrating Circus of Doom and our fans around the world.

Our tour this year is the last chance to witness this spectacle live before we close this chapter and move on to the next. Hope to see you all on the road!”

Watch the new live video for 'Master of Illusion (Live In Helsinki 2023)' below.

Stream 'Master of Illusion (Live In Helsinki 2023)' on all platforms now at: https://battlebeast.bfan.link/moils

After completing a very successful tour through Europe in the beginning of the year, BATTLE BEAST have just announced new dates in Europe for September-October 2024 together with supports SERENITY and BRYMIR.

The band are now heading to South America for some shows, and in May the band sets off for their first headline tour ever thorugh USA and Canada together with label mates BLACKBRIAR.

North American Tour Dates:

May 9 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
May 10 - Ottawa, ON - The Brass Monkey
May 11 - Toronto, ON - Opera House
May 12 - Cleveland, OH - House of Blues
May 14 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
May 15 - Minneapolis, MN - The Varsity Theater
May 16 - Lawrence, KS - Grenada Theater
May 17 - Denver, CO - The Gothic Theatre
May 18 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot
May 20 - Seattle, WA The Neptune Theater
May 21 - Vancouver, BC - The Rickshaw
May 22 - Portland, OR - Revolution Hall
May 24 - Roseville, CA - Goldfield Trading Post
May 25 - Santa Ana, CA - The Observatory
May 26 - Phoenix, AZ - The Nile Theater
May 28 - Dallas, TX - Echo
May 30 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade
May 31 - Charlotte, NC - The Underground
June 1 - Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Sound Stage
June 2 - New York, NY - Irving Plaza

Tickets for all announced shows: www.battlebeast.fi/tour

Since their 2011 debut album Steel, Battle Beast have achieved over 250 million digital streams. Alongside the huge #1 successes of their last four albums in the album charts of their home country, Finland, their last album Circus Of Doom (2022) reached a remarkable #9 in German album charts.

Get Circus of Doom in the format of your choice, here: https://bfan.link/circusofdoom

ROTTING CHRIST Release Defiant New Single

April 23, 2024

Early praise for Pro Xristou

"Their brand of blackened metal has changed a lot over years, mostly to being melodic, a little Gothic, and even having a tribal feel to some of their songs. “Pro Xristou” embraces these same components but presents them in a much more catchy way..." - Metal Temple (9/10)

"Pro Xristou" is not an album that will surprise us; on the contrary, it will seem familiar. Yet, the album is poised to be a memorable entry in Rotting Christ's distinguished career." - Metal War (9/10)

"With Pro Xristou, Rotting Christ have summoned every diabolical riff and slaying beat that their career has produced and culminated it into a pummeling, brilliant Gothic Black Metal attack on the senses. To say that I love this album is an understatement, I urge you, constant reader, to pre-order it. You will not be sorry." - Teeth of the Divine

"One thing is for sure after all this: ROTTING CHRIST will never let us down!" - The Gallery (8/10)

ROTTING CHRIST are the unparalleled masters of blackened Hellenic metal. The new single off the legendary Greek band's upcoming 14th full-length album, Pro Xristou, is a proudly vehement storm of thunderous drumming and melodic, windblown riffs. "The Apostate" not only celebrates the indomitable spirit of paganism. It also challenges the encroaching shadows of conformity.

Watch the video for "The Apostate" below.

Pro Xristou comes out May 24 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/RottingChristProXristou

Pre-save: https://orcd.co/proxtristoupresave

For the past 35 years, Rotting Christ, led by visionary brothers Sakis and Themis Tolis, have carved a path of resistance, blending the raw energy of black metal with lyrical narratives that defy the sands of time. Their journey has been one of rebellion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the essence of metal. Now, with Pro Xristou, they are set to redefine the legacy of Hellenic Black Metal once more.

"The Apostate" tells the story of resistance. It is a tribute to those who stood unbowed, like Flavius Claudius Julianus, who guarded ancient knowledge against a rising tide of religious conversion. The song is a tapestry woven with mesmerizing choirs, neo-classical arrangements, and Rotting Christ's signature blackened atmosphere.

In the dimly lit catacombs of extreme metal, one name stands as a monolith: ROTTING CHRIST. Sakis Tholis and his brother Themis started this band together back in 1987. In the three decades since, these Greek titans have left their blackened imprint all over the metal world. They’ve released 13 studio albums and played more than 1,300 concerts around the globe. Underneath all this hard work, Rotting Christ have but one vision – an urge to not only push the boundaries of extreme metal, but to keep reinventing themselves along the way.

Rotting Christ’s evolution has unfolded across several distinct chapters. After starting out closer to the barely controlled chaos of grindcore, they went on to establish the iconic sound of Hellenic black metal. Their albums often embrace refined gothic soundscapes, only to plunge back into the depths of blasphemous fervour. Each chapter marked another, further exploration, and an unwavering commitment to push boundaries.

But the real turning point came in 2007, when Rotting Christ signed a pact with Season of Mist. They unleashed a series of albums for the French label that defied any and all expectations. From the piercing Theogonia and the symphonic grandeur of Aelo to the ritualistic intensity of Κατά Τον Δαίμονα Εαυτού, the cinematic experiences created by Rotting Christ became a spectacle of bombastic atmospheres, mesmerizing choirs, and neo-classical arrangements. The unexpected is their modus operandi, with the use of various languages (Latin, Arabic, Greek, English) as well as the extensive use of famous poetry woven into their music, like Edgar Allan Poe’s ‘The Raven’ on The Heretics.

In 2019, Rotting Christ’s epic journey continued with The Apocryphal Spell compilation, which offers fans an intimate glimpse into unreleased and rare material. This allowed them to gather strength, preparing for the release of their next, highly anticipated, 14th full-length studio album: Pro Xristou.

Pro Xristou (‘Before Christ’ in Greek), serves as a fervent tribute to the last Pagan kings who resisted the onslaught of Christianity, guarding their ancient values and knowledge. In this thematic odyssey, intricately woven through tracks such as ‘The Apostate’ and ‘Ygdrassil’, Rotting Christ delves into the legacies of historical figures such as Flavius Claudius Julianus and Nordic mythological kings, embodying the might of Pagan wisdom in the face of Christian adversity. The album encapsulates the essence of Rotting Christ’s signature style – melodic, yet harsh at times – reinventing themselves yet again, while remaining rooted in their 35-year legacy.

Line-up
Sakis Tolis - Guitar, Vocals
Themis Tolis - Drums
Kostas "Spades" Heliotis - Bass
Kostis Fouk - Guitar

Guest Musicians
Amdroniki Skoula - Vocals (on 'La Letra Del Diavolo')
Nikos Kerkiras - Keyboard
Christina Alexiou - Choir
Maria Tsironi - Choir
Alexandros Loyziotis - Choir
Vasilis Karatzas - Choir

Andrew Liles - Narration (on 'The Apostate', 'Pretty World, Pretty Dies')
Kim Diaz Holm - Narration (on 'Ygdrassil')

Recording Studio
Deva Sounds Studios (Athens, Greece)

Producer
Sakis Tolis

Sound Engineer
Fotis Bernando
Aggelos Karatzas

Mixing
Jens Borgen at Fascination Street Studios (Örebro, Sweden)

Mastering
Tony Lidgren at Fascination Street Studios (Örebro, Sweden)

Artwork Artists
Thomas Cole - Artwork
Adrien Bousson - Digital Processing

Biography
Sébastien J. Gamez

Links:
Official Website: https://www.rotting-christ.com/en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rottingchristofficial/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/rottingchristofficial/
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/athanatoieste
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RottingChristOfficia
Bandcamp: https://rottingchristofficial.bandcamp.com/
Apple Music: http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rotting-christ/id28441629
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7FhkwcO8Jd7BRWdllBpXBJ

Press-kit: http://presskit.season-of-mist.com/PressKits/Rotting_Christ/
Username: presskit
Password: Presskitofmist

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
CD Clamshell Box - Deluxe Digipak w/ Gold Foil + 2 Bonus
Tracks & Extras
12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear, Red & Blue Mixed
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Green
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Turquoise
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Yellow
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Blue
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - silver & Black Marbled
Limited Box Set Vinyl - 12" Gold & Black Marbled w/ Gold Foil + 2 Bonus Tracks & Extras
Cassette

Enter Shikari Announce New Companion Record "Dancing On The Frontline" & New US Tour Dates

April 23, 2024

Almost a year to the day since the release of their UK #1 album "A Kiss for the Whole World", Enter Shikari are announcing a new companion record "Dancing On The Frontline". The new record brings together remixes, non-album singles (featuring the likes of Wargasm, Cody Frost, AViVA and Fever 333’s Jason Aalon Butler), plus live recordings from the BBC Radio 1 Rock Show and Future Sounds shows. The record's opening track 'Goldfish (Shikari Sound System remix)' is out now. Pre-order "Dancing On The Frontline" HERE.

Talking about the new release, lead singer and producer Rou Reynolds says:

“We’re exactly one year on from the release of A Kiss For The Whole World, so it feels like the right time to present all our output from this crazy year, along with some new treats, all in one place. We’ve not had a lot of time or energy to do any Shikari Sound System mixes for a while, so it was great to be able to step back into that chair and remix 'Goldfish' and 'Bloodshot'. We tested out the Goldfish rework live on our UK & European tour and insanity ensued.”

Hear 'Goldfish (Shikari Sound System remix)' on streaming services here and watch below.

"Dancing On The Frontline" also comes with a Blu-ray of the band's headline performances at Slam Dunk Festival UK in 2023 and Germany's Vainstream Festival in the summer of 2022, with both shows edited by the band’s longtime visual collaborator Oleg Rooz.

Their much-lauded live show has since been all around the world, covering the USA, Australia, Europe, UK, Ireland and more. Audiences in the UK also witnessed the band's biggest ever headline tour to date of the country's arenas, an audio-visual spectacular that The Guardian awarded four stars and heralded as "the beginning of Enter Shikari’s greatest chapter."

Watch 'Bloodshot' live from Slam Dunk Festival HERE

Watch 'Anything Can Happen In The Next Half Hour' live from Slam Dunk Festival HERE

Watch 'The Paddington Frisk' live from Vainstream Festival HERE

In October the band will bring special guests You Me At Six out on the road with them, as they journey through North America on what will be You Me At Six's final ever shows in the continent, ahead of their split in 2025.

Talking about the upcoming tour, Reynolds continues:

"In October, Enter Shikari bring special guests You Me At Six to the states for a fresh headline run. "North America has always been difficult for Shikari, long tours, thousands of miles, and playing venues smaller than most of the other rooms we get to visit around the world. But we’ve always kept returning because there’s a real zest and passion from our audience out there, even if fewer people ‘get us’.

Recently things seem to have begun sizzling a bit more for us, with more shows selling out and more intensity in the crowds. So it’s some reward for our tenacity that we’re returning in October for what will be our biggest ever North American headline tour. And that will be made all the sweeter by being able to bring our friends You Me At Six with us for this one. We’ve known each other a long time, but somehow only ever played a couple of shows together, so the fact that they’re joining us for what will be their last ever USA & Canada tour really means something to us."

Australian pop-punks Yours Truly will also be joining the tour as openers on all dates.

2024 North American Tour Dates:

Wed 10/9/24 - Dallas, TX, South Side Music Hall

Thu 10/10/24 - Austin, TX, Empire Garage

Sat 10/12/24 - Houston, TX, Warehouse live Midtown

Wed 10/16/24 - Washington, DC, Howard Theater

Thu 10/17/24 - Philadelphia, PA, Union Transfer

Fri 10/18/24 - Boston, MA, Paradise Rock Club

Sat 10/19/24 - New York, NY, Palladium

Mon 10/21/24 - Montreal, QC, Théâtre Beanfield

Wed 10/23/24 - Toronto, ON, Danforth Music Hall

Thu 10/24/24 - Chicago, IL, Metro

Fri 10/25/24 - Minneapolis, MN, First Ave

Sat 10/26/24 - Davenport, IA, Capitol Theatre

Sun 10/27/24 - St Louis, MO, Red Flag

Tue 10/29/24 - Denver, CO, Gothic Theater

Wed 10/30/24 - Salt Lake City, UT, The Complex

Fri 11/1/24 - Spokane, WA, Knitting Factory

Sat 11/2/24 - Vancouver, BC, Commodore Ballroom

Sun 11/3/24 - Portland, OR, Wonder Ballroom

Mon 11/4/24 - Seattle, WA, Showbox

Wed 11/6/24 - Sacramento, CA, Ace of Spades

Thu 11/7/24 - San Francisco, CA, August Hall

Fri 11/8/24 - San Diego, CA, House of Blues

Sat 11/9/24 - Los Angeles, CA, The Belasco

US Festival Appearances

May 12 - Daytona Beach, FL - Welcome To Rockville 2024

May 16 - Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple 2024

More about Enter Shikari

5 UK top ten albums

2 UK top 40 singles

2 BRIT certified silver albums and 1 BRIT certified gold album

Multiple Kerrang! award winners, AIM Award winners and Heavy Music Award winners

3000 shows worldwide

Download full biography HERE

Find Enter Shikari Online

www.entershikari.com

CREEPING DEATH SUPPORTING IN FLAMES TOUR IN MAY

CREEPING DEATH
SUPPORTING IN FLAMES
TOUR IN MAY