Electronic Group Deep AL Brindle Announce "Are You Nervous?" + Share "Nervous"

May 19, 2024

Los Angeles-based electronic group Deep AL Brindle — comprised of Diego Castellanos and Alastair Wilson — are pleased to announce their debut album Are You Nervous? The record arrives on July 12 via Tooth & Nail Records. Pre-order it here.

The band's music is often a master class in smooth, chill vibes, and today, Deep AL Brindle have shared the new single "Nervous."

Listen here.

"It's the feeling of not being where you're supposed to be and time isn't on your side," the band states about the track. "You have an idea of where you want to be in life, but you feel like you're not there."

The band also shared a video of a live performance of the song. Watch it below for yet another taste of what DAB do best.

Deep AL Brindle fashion vibrant and vital electronic soundscapes around a core of live instrumentation with a heartbeat maintained by real drums. After building a rabid hometown following, gaining traction on streaming platforms, and landing a deal with Tooth & Nail Records, the group's two distinct personalities and styles congregate in one ever-evolving vision on their full-length debut album, Are You Nervous? "We bring a counter balance to one another," Castellanos says. "We challenge each other's tendencies, which is cool. As a drummer, Alastair brings the life back into the songs, and his presence reassures me that, as the saying goes, 'Two minds are better than one.'"

"It's really been a journey," adds Wilson. "I'm glad we're on it together."

A few years back, the pair initially bonded as friends. Soon, this friendship manifested as a creative partnership where they spent countless hours jamming and making music together. During 2019, Deep AL Brindle formally came to life with the release of CTRL V, followed by a string of buzzing singles. Tooth & Nail took notice, and the pair inked a deal with the label. They continued to create at a prolific pace, decamping to Mexico City at the end of 2023 to lay the foundation for what would become Are You Nervous? On this trip, Alastair tracked the majority of his drums at an intimate studio as they absorbed the energy of their surroundings. "It was my first time going to Mexico City," he states. "I grew up skateboarding, and that culture is strong there. We were visiting skate shops, and the studio experience was amazing. The food was great too."

Along the way, they made a conscious decision to place Castellanos' vocals front-and-center on the LP. Encouraged by crowd reactions at shows, they chose to "spice it up a bit."

Deep AL Brindle are ultimately creating a place to escape to with the record and much more to come. “This is a prelude of what we’re going to be. It's just the beginning," says Wilson.

My Epic Share "Heavy Heart" Video

May 19, 2024

My Epic — Aaron Stone [guitar, vocals], Tanner Morita [guitar], and Nate Washburn [guitar, bass] — recently announced their signing to Tooth & Nail Records. They will release their fourth album and label debut Loriella on June 28. Pre-order it here.

Today, the band has shared the video for "Heavy Heart." Watch it Below.

"'Small as you are — you've got a really heavy heart.' As huge as it is lively, 'Heavy Heart' is a massively satisfying finale of a rock song," the band offers. "Both a nod to the past and a blueprint for the future, 'Heavy Heart' is a roller coaster composition of dynamics and a declaration of unconditional love."

About the album, the band shared, "Loriella is a record about progression, joy, and the confidence that can only grow after the loss of innocence. 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."

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.

HUNTERGIRL’S REBELLIOUS ANTHEM “BAD BOY” AVAILABLE NOW

May 18, 2024

Named to CMT’s 2024 Next Women of Country, HunterGirl shares another side to her already impressive artistry, today releasing the infectious anthem “Bad Boy.” Featured on her upcoming label-debut EP, Tennessee Girl, coming June 7, the 19 Recordings/BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville artist throws caution to the wind in her irresistible, rebelling new song. Pre-order/pre-save/pre-add the EP here and listen to “Bad Boy” here.

“Tennessee Girl shows the different sides of my personality. I separate songs into two categories in my head, Blue Jean and Leather Jacket songs. Blue Jean songs are the ones I write in my bedroom opening my diary to the world. Leather Jacket songs are where I want to feel tougher and have fun. Most people have only seen the Blue Jean side of my personality, but with this 6- song EP, I have the chance to show the full picture of me as an artist," shares HunterGirl.

Admitting her beguiling yet relatable taste in men, fantasizing about a tattooed-up, cigarette-smoking guitar player in a band, the explosive, head-rocking sing-along finds our heroine ignoring all the red flags in pursuit for the man of her illicit dreams. Written by this “Artist to Watch” (Country Now) with producer Lindsay Rimes and Greg Bates, “Bad Boy” marks a radically compelling addition to HunterGirl’s sonic and lyrical catalog. Embracing all her influences simultaneously from Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire to Kelly Clarkson and P!NK, Hunter is innately talented at writing lyrics that are true to her, while seamlessly delivering tracks that are both country and punk-pop-country leaning. In doing so, she readies a dynamically captivating project that beautifully embodies every part of her story that won her the hearts of millions as the runner-up on American Idol.

“The rising country star has continued to work hard and put herself out there on incredibly sincere and emotionally-charged levels” (Country Now), “transcending from talented aspiring artist to make her first steps toward the big leagues” (Billboard). Praised “a major, major new talent” by MusicRow, the upcoming EP - produced by Lindsay Rimes - will boast new songs “Clockworks” and “Bad Decisions,” along with the critically acclaimed “Ain’t About You” that made her the first female country artist in over 30 years to write her debut radio single completely by herself.

Last night (5/16), the talented songstress kept the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards Red Carpet lively as Country Now’s guest host. Dedicated to giving back, HunterGirl will take part in the Opry’s Salute to the Troops show on May 21. Using her platform to tell the story of a selfless Veteran, she'll perform the anthem that was co-written with the Veteran's wife as a part of the Gold Star Family Project with Operation Song.

Up next, she will be joining Luke Bryan on the road, as well as returning to Nashville’s CMA Fest on June 7 and making her debut at Faster Horses Festival on July 21.

About HunterGirl:

America’s sweetheart, vocal powerhouse, and esteemed songwriter HunterGirl has been performing since she was three years old and writing songs since she was nine. In her teens, she honed her craft by performing at venues across the United States and working with veteran non-profits such as Operation Song, Freedom Sings and A Soldier’s Child, using music therapy to help numerous vets transform their stories into songs. After high school, she moved to Nashville and immediately started playing gigs at Lower Broadway’s most famous venues including Tootsie’s, Rippy’s, Jason Aldean’s Bar, The Listening Room, and HonkyTonk Central, winning songwriting contests such as “Nash Next” and the prestigious “Nashville Songwriter Association International” in her spare time. Recently, she competed and placed second on the star-making competition series American Idol, where she delivered standout performances and won the hearts of millions across the country including Idol judge and Country superstar Luke Bryan who proclaimed her the “new age Miranda Lambert” and his “favorite female Country voice.” After topping the iTunes All Genre and Country charts with her wistful “Red Bird,” HunterGirl has been a guest on Good Morning America, Live with Kelly & Ryan and The Kelly Clarkson Show as well as shared the stage with Country superstars Old Dominion, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Alan Jackson, Lainey Wilson, Trace Adkins, Charlie Daniels, Sara Evans and more. Named to CMT’s esteemed 2024 Next Women of Country, HunterGirl’s “Ain’t About You” made her the first female country artist in over 30 years to write her debut radio single by herself. Now, after making her Grand Ole Opry debut that earned her a lively standing ovation, she releases the anthemic “Bad Boy,” ahead of her label-debut EP, Tennessee Girl, coming June 7. Praised by Peoplefor her “incredible voice” and CMT for her “soaring vocals and superstar potential,” HunterGirl will hit the road with Luke Bryan and Kimberly Perry this summer. Chronicling “her current moment of transcending from talented aspiring artist to make her first steps toward the big leagues” (Billboard), HunterGirl - “a major, major new talent” (MusicRow) - is poised to become Country’s next big female artist.

KEEP UP WITH HUNTERGIRL

ROCK SINGER + GUITARIST TIM MONTANA SHARES NEW SONG "DIE TODAY"

May 18, 2024

Rock singer/guitarist/songwriter Tim Montana drops his new song “Die Today” from his debut album, Savage. Pre-order, pre-add and pre-save Savage HERE.

“Die Today” is a gritty and grungy anthem that pays tribute to the special forces of the military who run into gunfire and lay down their lives for strangers, as Tim Montana is a vocal supporter of veterans. The gloomy guitars, Montana's gravelly vocals, and downright nasty guitar solos make this a "must listen" from Savage. It's a '90s-inspired song that truly comes to life when performed on stage, and fans will be screaming along to every syllable.

"I had the title 'Die Today' for several years and couldn’t figure out an angle to write it," says Montana. "When I sat down to write for the album Savage, I started chasing this title again. Right away, my friend who was in Special Operations texted me. I knew right then that this song had to be about heroes who put their lives on the line to save strangers. This song is dedicated to the special operations community and any hero who puts their life on the line for others."

On the Music Knox/BMG release Savage, Montana gets in touch with his undeniable rock 'n' roll roots. Armed with grit, guitars, and a hunger for glory, Montana has been endorsed by Dave Grohl and ZZ Top's Billy F Gibbons, booked by David Letterman, and had his anthems used by the MLB and NHL. His moody, crackling, '90s-influenced riffs and whiskey-soaked vocals reel fans in while his storytelling keeps them. Savage is a custom and combustible cocktail, served in a dirty, cracked glass that proves why Montana earned iHeartRadio's "On The Verge" accolade.

Montana also shared the official video for the title track. Watch it below.

Tim Montana is touring heavily this year. He will support Bush, Jerry Cantrell, and Candlebox this summer and has appearances booked at major festivals. All dates are below.

TIM MONTANA ON TOUR:
6/8 — Sidney, MT — 2024 Hot Rods & Harleys Summer Kick Off*
6/29 — Rexford, MT — Abayance Bay Marina
7/6 — Milwaukee, WI — Summerfest 2024*
7/26 — Bend, OR — Hayden Homes Amphitheater**
7/27 — Spokane, WA — Northern Quest Pavilion Amp**
7/31 — Salt Lake City, UT — USANA Amp**
8/1 — Greenwood Village, CO — Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre**
8/3 — La Crosse, WI — Copeland Park**
8/4 — Indianapolis, IN — Everwise Amphitheater At White River State Park**
8/6 — Cedar Rapids, IA — McGrath Amphitheatre**
8/7 — Chicago, IL — Huntington Bank Pavilion At Northerly Island**
8/8 — Three Forks, MT — Rockin The Rivers 2024*
8/9 — Nashville, TN — Nashville Municipal Auditorium**
8/10 — Maryland Heights, MO — Saint Louis Music Park**
8/13 — Cleveland, OH — Jacobs Pavilion At Nautica**
8/14 — Cincinnati, OH — Riverbend Music Center**
8/30 - 9/1 — Pryor, OK — Rocklahoma 2024*
9/28 — Louisville, KY — Louder Than Life 2024*
10/10 — Sacramento, CA — Aftershock*
*FESTIVAL DATE
**With Bush, Jerry Cantrell, + Candlebox

About Tim Montana:
Tim Montana forges a new frontier for hard rock. Following a tumultuous and downright unbelievable childhood in a trailer off-the-grid, the singer, guitarist, and entrepreneur left his home state of Montana in the rearview at barely eighteen-years-old. Driven by a restless work ethic, he quietly carved out a niche without comparison. Along the way, he performed on The Late Show with David Letterman at the behest of the host (practically unheard of for a totally independent artist), collaborated with everyone from Billy F Gibbons to Kid Rock (cracking the charts for the first time), made a fan out of Charlie Sheen (who directed the "Mostly Stoned" video), and even attracted his idol Dave Grohl to his corner. Forged by a long grind, he fulfilled his destiny in 2023. Tim shook the rock world with "Devil You Know." Christened "flawless" and "One of the 30 Best Rock + Metal Songs of 2023" by Loudwire, the breakout single surged onto Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay and Rock & Alternative Airplay charts. In its wake, iHeartRadio touted him as an "On The Verge Artist." Soon, he found himself booked for tours with Staind, Seether, Saint Asonia, Bush, and Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains (another hero of Tim's). Simultaneously, he and Gibbons purchased an historic bar and hotel Wise River Club in Wise River, MT. Coming back home to Montana inspired him to go even wilder on his 2024 full-length album, Savage. The hooks hit harder, the distortion was cranked up louder, and the spirit became freer. Tim is telling a story that will resonate far beyond his home state, and you can hear it loud and clear on the first single and title track "Savage" and the second release "Die Today" with more to come.

BEWITCHER Unleashes Electrifying New Single, "Starfire Maelstrom," Announces New Album, 'Spell Shock'

May 18, 2024

All the best tunes belong to the Devil, and Portland’s bastard sons BEWITCHER have returned to take back rock n’ roll in Baphomet’s name. The speed demons are now unleashing the electrifying new single, “Starfire Maelstrom," which is the first invocation from the haunted trio’s upcoming album, 'Spell Shock,' due September 27 on on Century Media Records. The track is the hardened and bloodthirsty sound of BEWITCHER - noise, filth, fury n’ all - and can be found along with a lyric video, which was created by Scott Taysom, watch below.

“It’s full of apocalyptic, speed demon vibes, and imagery taken from the worst of current events that only get more apocalyptic as time goes by,” says BEWITCHER frontman Mateo von Bewitcher of the album's lead missive. “It’s the feeling you get from ‘Fight Fire with Fire’ on [Metallica’s] ‘Ride the Lightning.’ It’s immediate how it feeds into themes of human destruction and war, but also has cosmic elements. It’s a classic album opener.”

Joining Von Bewitcher, bassist A. Magus, and drummer A. Hunter in the studio this time was none other longtime BEWITCHER fan Lars Frederiksen. Most of the world knows Frederiksen as a force in his own right, playing in the likes of Bay Area punk heroes Rancid, as well as his own Old Firm Casuals. While to some, it may have been an unlikely pairing with Frederiksen taking the producer’s seat, for everyone in the studio the connection was immediate.

Says Frederiksen on Spell Shock: "It’s the best record I’ve ever produced for one of the best bands in the world."

Bewitcher's latest lightening strike comes just in time for the band's appearance at Milwaukee Metal Festival, in which they will be laying waste to The Rave/Eagle's Ballroom tonight, May 17! Bewitcher is currently on the road with fellow Portland-based occultists UADA and Century Media labelmates Upon Stone for "The Shadows Return" tour, which will continue to decimate the states until the final stop on May 28 in Sacramento, CA. The full itinerary can be found below! More dates including a Fall North American tour, and BEWITCHER’s return to Europe as they continue to extol their “Black Magick Metal” gospel will be announced soon

Stream and download the new single HERE.

BEWITCHER US Dates:

THE SHADOWS RETURN TOUR w/ UADA

05/17: Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest

05/20: Detroit, MI @ Sanctuary (w/ Stabbing)

05/22: Nashville, TN @ Vinyl Lounge

05/23: Dallas, TX @ RBC

05/24: Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad

05/25: Phoenix, AZ @ Pub Rock

05/27: Las Vegas, NV @ Usual Place

05/28: Sacramento, CA @ Goldfield Midtown

BEWITCHER EU Dates:

11/8-9/24 (SE) Umea - House of Metal Festival

Since their formation in 2013, Bewitcher has seen their signature “Black Magick Metal” sound go from humble beginnings to new heights of creativity and wild anthemic fervor. A small collection of long out-of-print demo tapes kicked off what has proven to be an enduring line of ripping studio albums, singles and EPs. They have earned a reputation as one of the hardest working touring acts around, bringing their volcanic, high energy live shows to every corner of North America and parts abroad.

Line-Up:

Mateo von Bewitcher – vox + guitars

A. Hunter – drums + percussion

A. Magus – bass guitar + backing vox

Follow:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Stream // Order // Download

Wage War Share "TOMBSTONE" Visualizer

May 18, 2024

WAGE WAR — Briton Bond [lead vocals], Cody Quistad [rhythm guitar, clean vocals], Seth Blake [lead guitar], Chris Gaylord [bass], and Stephen Kluesener [drums] — have entered their world domination era. Last month, the Florida band has announced its fifth album STIGMA, which arrives digitally on June 21 via Fearless Records, while the physical version will land in stores on September 6. Pre-order it here.

The band has shared "TOMBSTONE." Listen here.

The band has also dropped the visualizer. Watch it Below.

"Metal riffs meet country western tropes in our new track 'TOMBSTONE,'" the band explains. "A final showdown with an enemy. One fight. Two dogs unleashed."

From its ominous, tension-building opening seconds through the deadly breakdowns, Wage War go hard on "TOMBSTONE." It's got vocals that sound like screamer Briton Bond gargled with a razor blade cocktail, thick and groovy riffs that'’ll have you nodding your head, and battering ram percussion. "TOMBSTONE" finds Wage War, unleashing a hellacious anthem that brings the heavy artillery from start to stomp to finish.

ABOUT WAGE WAR:
Traveling a constant forward trajectory at lightspeed, Wage War not only push their own sound forward, but they also propel heavy music into new territory. The Florida quintethave always tempered a pummeling metallic onslaught with unshakable melodies. A near-decade grind naturally brought Wage War to this point. They have unleashed a string of fan favorite albums, including Blueprints [2015], Deadweight [2017], Pressure [2019], and Manic [2021]. Beyond looks from SPIN, Modern Drummer, American Songwriter, Revolver, Guitar World, and more, KERRANG! hailed the latter as "their greatest album yet," and DORK raved, "It's an embracing of being metalheads, popheads and just fans of good songs. On more than one occasion, there's an earworm poking its head up through the dirt." They also put up numbers, tallying hundreds of millions of streams boosted by the likes of "Stitch," "Low," "Manic," and "Circle The Drain." On their fifth full-length offering STIGMA [Fearless Records], Wage War outfit their signature style with industrial grit and electronic sheen, leveling up into the future in the process with singles such as "MAGNETIC" and "NAIL5."

Future Palace Share "The Echoes of Disparity" Video — WATCH // Band Announces New Album "Distortion" Out 9/6

May 18, 2024

Female-fronted, post-hardcore high flyers Future Palace are pleased to announce their upcoming album Distortion, due out September 6 via Arising Empire! Pre-order it here.

Today, the band has shared the video for the single "The Echoes of Disparity," featuring a standout collaboration with Charlie Rolfe from As Everything Unfolds. This song makes a strong statement regarding societal pressure and control over women's bodies. Singer Maria Lessing showcases an impressive vocal range, transitioning between powerful shouts and crystal-clear vocals, adding depth and emotion to the song's important message.

Watch the video Below.

The world is a firework of overstimulation, and Future Palace have dedicated their latest album Distortion, to this overwhelming feeling.

On the new record, the band delves into a mass of mental illnesses and societal problems, creating music that, fittingly, delivers more hooks than ever before, shifting seamlessly from the quietest depths to the loftiest heights.

While their previous album, Run, leaned toward musical extremes, Distortion is the ultimate culmination of all the tones Future Palace have absorbed on their Europe-wide journey as one of the most exciting acts in alternative guitar music. The album features the most powerful metalcore breakdowns meeting trembling darkwave beats, anthemic emocore refrains à la Bad Omens contrasted with sacred choirs, and the coldness of industrial clashing with the powerful emotionality of Sleep Token, making Distortion more like a manifesto.

Future Palace's music has always explored internal struggles, and Distortion is the brutal climax of this approach. The album title, derived from the psychological term cognitive distortion, reflects a world where changing perceptions trap individuals in recurring pitfalls. Distortion addresses various mental illnesses and personal struggles, from ADHD to depression to narcissism. The band's third album is a powerful force of emotions, cycles, and cries of desperation, overwhelming listeners with its intensity.

The band's creativity shines as they tackle demanding topics with fresh perspectives. On Distortion, they build on their previous work by incorporating new elements, like orchestral interjections in "The Echoes of Disparity," which combines brutal screams and chant-like passages to convey psychological struggle. "Panic Paralysis" features a massive vocal motif with an arabesque touch, while "They Take What They Want" dives into emotional depths, blending raw metalcore with gentle vocal passages and massive choirs.

Despite the album's emotional intensity, Distortion was created amid excessive demands. Produced by Julian Breucker and Christoph Wieczorek, known for their work with Annisokay, Beyond the Black, and Smash Into Pieces, the recording process was grueling. Lessing recorded the album with a root infection and after wisdom tooth surgery, adding stress but enhancing the songs' authenticity. Guitarist Manuel Kohlert notes that the album reflects the band's experience as a heavy touring band, capturing the feelings of being on the road and contemplating their existence.

Despite its challenges, Distortion carries a piece of hope. "Decarabia" tells a bittersweet story about a depressed couple, while "The Echoes of Disparity," featuring Charlie Rolfe of As Everything Unfolds, is militantly rebellious, addressing abuse of power and the oppression of women. Lessing emphasizes the importance of female support to convey the song's message loudly.

FUTURE PALACE ARE:
Maria — Vocals
Manuel — Guitar
Johannes — Drums

COUNTRY STAR BLANCO BROWN CELEBRATES LIFE, MUSIC AND SECOND CHANCES WITH NEW SONG “SNAPSHOT,”

May 17, 2024

Blanco Brown has a reason to sing with the release of “Snapshot”, out today, which serves as the first preview of his EP Cedar Walls & Whiskey releasing on June 14. “Snapshot,” written by the iconic Diane Warren and produced by Blanco Brown, is a poignant reflection on the special memories we keep of our loved ones. These memories bring us back to cherished moments in our lives and provide motivation and hope when needed. Listen to “Snapshot” HERE and pre-save/pre-add/pre-order Cedar Walls & Whiskey HERE.

Blanco is celebrating a second chance at life and a newfound appreciation for everything he does. After the unprecedented chart topping viral success of “The Git Up,” which achieved 11x Platinum status and garnered over one billion streams, Blanco was on the cusp of realizing his dreams. But in an instant, a drunk driver changed everything for him. The drunk driver hit Blanco head on while riding his motorcycle. Brown broke multiple bones in his body, required 12 blood transfusions and needed to be resuscitated in the ambulance on his way to the hospital. Despite the lengthy and challenging rehabilitation process, Blanco made a full recovery, relearning fundamental skills like walking and holding a microphone.

Blanco is dedicated to raising awareness against drunk driving as well as the recent increase in accidents caused by impaired drivers. He remarked, “It's hard for me to understand why with all the education and knowledge we have acquired and the options for ride share companies, how we have numbers on the rise. I am aligning with charities against drunk driving to help spread the word and continue educating the public. Nobody cares how much you drink or smoke, just don’t drive for the sake of yourself and others.”

Blanco has faced both blessings and challenges in his career, particularly regarding the intersection of skin color and Country music. “I have encountered some challenges but I have also been blessed with success for the thing I love the most- making music. I have been criticized by some for my disruptive style but music evolves. Some people catch on quicker than others but it always evolves. Look at Elvis or the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Queen or Garth Brooks- all of them contributed to great change and growth in music.”

The release of the first installment of his 2024 EPs, Heartache & Lemonade brought us two amazing hits so far, “Sunshine Shine”, which perfectly aligns with Blanco’s cheery attitude towards life and “Good As It Gets,” a more poignant ballad and love story. Part two of his releases, Cedar Walls & Whiskey launches with the relatable song, “Snapshot.” Warren and Brown spent considerable time together working out of her studio forging a strong friendship. Diane remarked on their collaboration, “[I’m] excited for everyone to hear ‘Snapshot.’ It's a song about holding onto the good moments so you can relive them again and again and Blanco really brings it to life. He is a fantastic and special artist and I can't wait for everyone to hear this!”

Blanco added, “Diane is a legend plain and simple. Working with her was amazing and I cherish her friendship.”

“Snapshot” is available 5/17 on all platforms.

About Blanco Brown:
Blurring the lines between Country, Hip-Hop & Soul, Blanco Brown makes a southern sound that he proudly calls "Trailer Trap." Honing in on his unique sound, Blanco balances both the metropolis and country settings in which he grew up. His viral hit “The Git Up” (certified 11x PLATINUM across three countries) took the world by storm, claiming the top spot in charts across the globe and spawning nearly four billion views across social platforms. It claimed the No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for 12 weeks and was the top-selling digital Country song in the US for 13 weeks, resulting in Billboard naming him as their No. 1 Top New Country Artist for 2019. Apart from being a GRAMMY®-nominated engineer who has worked with the likes of Fergie, Childish Gambino, Kane Brown and Chris Brown, the multi-talent’s multi-national Platinum-certified collaboration “Just the Way” with Parmalee garnered more than 500 million on-demand streams, earning Brown his first No. 1 hit on Country radio (in the US and Canada). More recently, he doubled down on his genre-bending collaborations, teaming with Nelly on the funky, country inspired track “High Horse,” T.I. for “Trap Still Bumpin’,” LOCASH and the late Leslie Jordan for the funky “Let It Slide,” while pairing with Diplo for “Do Si Do” and Lee Brice and R3HAB for the remix of Brice’s hit song, “Soul.” In 2021, Blanco Brown also lent soaring vocals to the song “Never Gonna Tame You (Original Song from “The Mustangs: America’s Wild Horses”),” written by Diane Warren. Recovering from a life-threatening accident and leaning on music to heal, Blanco released “Nobody’s More Country” in 2021. Then, while hitting the road hard last summer, he instantly captured the attention of festival audiences across the nation opening his set with a breathtakingly powerful cover blend of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” and Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey.” Showcasing his world-class vocal talent and captivating stage presence throughout 2023, Blanco released the emotionally charged track “I’ll Never,” unlike anything the No. 1 hitmaker has ever released, followed by a momentous tribute to the late, great John Denver with Brown’s release of "Take Me Home, Country Roads.” With his April 5th release of Heartache & Lemonade, part one of three 2024 EP’s, this A-Town resident’s branded “Trailer Trap” sound amplifies the stories & arrangements on the EP. Blanco’s dripping-with-soul vocals also sonically shine throughout as displayed in the lead focus track "Sunshine, Shine.” Part two of three 2024 EP’s, Cedar Walls & Whiskey, drops June 14th and Brown’s latest melody “Snapshot” is out Friday, May 17th.

About Dianne Warren:

One of modern music's most celebrated songwriters, Diane Warren, has penned nine #1 and thirty-three top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and is tied for having written the most #1 songs as a sole writer in Billboard history. She was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2001.

She has received 15 Academy Award nominations, is a GRAMMY® winner with 15 nominations, an EMMY winner, and two-time Golden Globe winner whose songs have been featured in more than 150 films, including “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” (Mannequin), “Because You Loved Me” (Up Close and Personal), “How Do I Live” (Con Air), “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” (Armageddon ), and “Til It Happens To You” (The Hunting Ground). In November 2022, Warren became the first songwriter in history to receive an Honorary Oscar.

She is the sole owner of Realsongs, her publishing company and a recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She has worked with many of today's most popular artists, including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, H.E.R., Snoop Dogg, Paloma Faith, Jon Batiste, Maren Morris, and Justin Bieber, in addition to having written songs for the world's most iconic artists such as Whitney Houston, Cher, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and many more.

KEEP UP WITH BLANCO BROWN

Koe Wetzel Drops "Sweet Dreams" Ahead of Highly-Anticipated Album '9 Lives,' Out July 19

May 17, 2024

“I want fans to know that there's a different side of me, not just the sex, drugs and rock & roll Koe that they may have heard about online,” Platinum-selling country rock sensation Koe Wetzel shared when unveiling his forthcoming fifth studio album, 9 Lives, set for July 19 release via Columbia Records. With today’s release of emotional ballad “Sweet Dreams,” Music Row’s “genre disruptor” demonstrates just that. Listen Below and pre-order / pre-save the album HERE.

Written by Wetzel alongside Amy Allen, Josh Serrato, Sam Harris and producer Gabe Simon, “Sweet Dreams” showcases a vulnerable side of the man praised by Billboard for “music that’s unvarnished and unfiltered” with a chorus that lays bare his raw, emotional depth:

        It’s hard to have sweet dreams when I’m such a nightmare
        I don’t wanna talk about it, rather not go there
        When I find a good thing, I burn it down slow
        Only see your face now when my eyes are closed

“I had an R&B type song in mind, like something off Usher’s Confessions album, with a badass drumbeat and a really cool melody. I had written in my notes a few weeks earlier: ‘Sweet Dreams,’” Wetzel says of writing and recording the moody track. “When we got to the Sonic Ranch in El Paso, we tried it. We stepped back to look at the song and got really excited about the way it came out.”

“Sweet Dreams” joins lead single “Damn Near Normal” and title track “9 Lives (Black Cat)” in offering an early preview of the album. Wetzel offered fans a further preview of the album’s multi-faceted narrative with a special trailer introducing nine unique Koe Wetzels as he showcased his comedic acting skills. Watch HERE.

The Texas-born live phenom also plans to take his new music global this year with his recently announced Damn Near Normal World Tour. Additionally, Wetzel will perform prominent sets at several festivals, including Hangout, Country Jam, Rock the Country, Country Thunder Wisconsin, WE Fest, Watershed and more, plus a hometown stadium show as he joins Morgan Wallen’s One Night At A Time World Tour in Arlington, Texas this July.

For more information on all things Koe Wetzel and to purchase tickets to upcoming shows, visit KoeWetzelMusic.com and follow on Instagram and Facebook @KoeWetzelMusic, TikTok @Koe_Wetzel and Twitter/X @KoeWetzel.

Damn Near Normal World Tour Dates:
July 27             The Woodlands, Texas  ||  Cynthia Woods Pavilion
Aug. 7              Missoula, Mont.  ||  Big Sky Brewing Company Amphitheater
Aug. 8              Nampa, Idaho  ||  Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
Aug. 9              Sandy, Utah  ||  Sandy Amphitheater
Aug. 10            Las Vegas, Nev.  ||  The Theater at Virgin Hotel Hotels Las Vegas
Aug. 15            Minneapolis, Minn.  ||  The Armory
Aug. 16            Council Bluffs, Iowa  ||  Stir Cove (Harrah’s Casino)
Aug. 21            Cleveland, Ohio  ||  Jacobs Pavilion
Aug. 22            Columbus, Ohio  ||  KEMBA Live! Outdoor
Aug. 23            Pittsburgh, Pa.  ||  Stage AE
Aug. 24            Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem
Aug. 28            Boston, Mass.  ||  Roadrunner
Aug. 29            Uncasville, Conn.  ||  Mohegan Sun Arena
Aug. 30            Atlantic City, N.J.  ||  Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
Aug. 31            Reading, Pa.  ||  Santander Arena
Sept. 4              Charleston, W.V.  ||  Charleston Coliseum
Sept. 5              Roanoke, Va.  ||  Berglund Center
Sept. 6              Columbia, S.C.  ||  Colonial Life Arena
Sept. 7              Cary, N.C.  ||  Koka Booth Amphitheatre
Sept. 12            Kansas City, Kan.  ||  Azura Amphitheater
Sept. 13            Camdenton, Mo.  ||  Ozarks Amphitheater
Sept. 18            St. Louis, Mo.  ||  Chaifetz Arena
Sept. 20            Huntsville, Ala.  ||  The Orion Amphitheater
Sept. 21            Macon, Ga.  ||  Atrium Health Amphitheater
Sept. 25            Alexandria, La.  ||  Rapides Parish Coliseum
Sept. 26            Tuscaloosa, Ala.  ||  Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater
Sept. 27            Nashville, Tenn.  ||  Ascend Amphitheater
Sept. 28            Little Rock, Ark.  ||  First Security Amphitheater
Oct. 3               Pikeville, Ky.  ||  Appalachian Wireless Arena
Oct. 4               Indianapolis, Ind.  ||  Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park
Oct. 5               Evansville, Ind.  ||  Ford Center
Oct. 10             Abilene, Texas  ||  Expo Center of Taylor County
Oct. 11             Lubbock, Texas  ||  Cooks Garage
Oct. 13             Morrison, Colo.  ||  Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Oct. 26             Manchester, U.K.  ||  Academy 3
Oct. 27             London, U.K.  ||  The Garage
Oct. 30             Glasgow, U.K.  ||  Oran Mor
Oct. 31             Birmingham, U.K.  ||  Academy 2
Nov. 1              Leeds, U.K.  ||  Brudenell Social Club
Nov.3               Amsterdam, Netherlands  ||  Melkweg (Oude Zaal)
Nov. 5              Hamburg, Germany  ||  Bahnhof Pauli
Nov. 6              Berlin, Germany  ||  Frannz Club
Nov. 7              Cologne, Germany  ||  Club Volta
Nov. 10            Stockholm, Sweden  ||  Nalen
Nov. 11 Oslo, Norway  ||  Rockefeller Music Hall
Nov. 13            Copenhagen, Denmark  ||  Lille Vega

Additional Shows:
May 18             Gulf Shores, Ala.  ||  Hangout Music Festival
June 21             Grand Junction, Colo.  ||  Country Jam
June 29             Poplar Bluff, Mo.  ||  Rock The Country
July 18             Twin Lakes, Wis.  ||  Country Thunder Wisconsin
July 26             Arlington, Texas  ||  AT&T Stadium (with Morgan Wallen)
July 31             Davenport, Iowa  ||  Mississippi Valley Fair
Aug. 1              Detroit Lakes, Minn.  ||  WE Fest
Aug. 3              Sweet Home, Ore.  ||  Oregon Jamboree Music Festival
Aug. 4              George, Wash.  ||  Watershed Festival
Aug. 17            Wichita, Kan.  ||  Bulls, Bands and Barrels
Sept. 14            Prior, Okla.  ||  Born & Raised
Sept. 19            Louisville, Ky.  ||  Bourbon & Beyond

About Koe Wetzel
Koe Wetzel never met a genre wall he couldn’t tear down: The Texas singer-songwriter has earned a rabid audience for his songs that mix country, rock, hip-hop, and even Nineties grunge. His 2016 album Noise Complaint endeared him to fans with its no- holds-barred lyrics about drunken nights, broken hearts and stints in jail, and included the Gold-certified hits “Love” (feat. Parker McCollum), “Something to Talk About” and the infamous “February 28, 2016.” Wetzel’s 2020 major label debut, Sellout, only furthered his legend with the Platinum-certified “Drunk Driving” plus the Gold-certified “Good Die Young” and “Kuntry & Wistern.” The 2022 follow-up, Hell Paso, hit No. 3 on Billboard’s Country Albums and spawned hits on both the country and rock charts, including the Gold-certified “Creeps” and “Cabo.” To date, Wetzel has 2.6 billion total streams and has created a genuine experience with his live concerts, which he describes as “total chaos.” In 2023 alone, he sold more than 275,000 tickets, and appeared for a third time on POLLSTAR’s Top Worldwide Tours. Wetzel will open for Morgan Wallen on the superstar’s One Night at a Time Stadium Tour this July and play prominent sets at festivals like Country Thunder and Watershed this summer, while also headlining his own Damn Near Normal World Tour. His new album, 9 Lives (Columbia), is set for release July 19.

George Strait Releases "MIA Down in MIA" + 'Cowboys And Dreamers' Set for 9/6

May 17, 2024

On the heels of sharing the news of his 31st studio album with fans during a sold-out show at Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Stadium earlier this month, Country Music Hall of Fame member George Strait debuts the first release from Cowboys And Dreamers with “MIA Down in MIA.” Listen to the song HERE and pre-save/pre-add Cowboys And Dreamers, set for release Sept. 6, HERE.

Written by Adam Craig and Dean Dillon, and produced by Strait with Chuck Ainlay, “MIA Down in MIA” features the Texas native’s Ace in the Hole Band, including longtime fiddle player Gene Elder.

“I’m dedicating this record to my longtime manager and friend Erv Woolsey and my longtime fiddle player and friend Gene Elders (a player on four of these tracks), who we lost on the same day, March 20, 2024, as well as my longtime friend and road manager Tom Foote, who we lost on April 29, 2024,” shares Strait. “I will never forget all of the good times we had together. May they rest in peace with our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The follow-up to Honky Tonk Time Machine, Strait’s 27th No. 1 Billboard Country album, Cowboys And Dreamers will feature 13 new songs, including “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame” featuring Chris Stapleton, which the pair debuted during the sold-out show at Lucas Oil Stadium on May 4, and his own rendition of Waylon Jennings’ “Waymore’s Blues.”

The Texas Troubadour will continue his series of stadium shows next Saturday, May 25 at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa, followed by additional dates this summer in Charlotte, N.C.; East Rutherford, N.J.; College Station, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah; Detroit, Mich.; and Chicago, Ill., before supersizing his longstanding Strait to Vegas show with a December date at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium to mark the 37th installment of the engagement.

Strait’s 2024 Concert Calendar:
5/25 Jack Trice Stadium Ames, IA
6/1 Bank of America Stadium Charlotte, NC
6/8 MetLife Stadium East Rutherford, NJ
6/15 Kyle Field College Station, TX
6/29 Rice-Eccles Stadium Salt Lake City, UT
7/13 Ford Field Detroit, MI
7/20 Soldier Field Chicago, IL
12/7 Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas, NV

For more information and to purchase tickets to all upcoming dates, visit GeorgeStrait.com.

About George Strait
George Strait is the unambiguous King of Country Music, having sold more than 105 million albums and counting while earning more than 60 major entertainment industry awards as well as countless nominations and becoming the only act in history to have a Top 10 hit every year for over three decades. With 33 different Platinum or multi-Platinum albums, he’s earned the third-most certifications of any artist in any genre, following only The Beatles and Elvis Presley, and with a total of 60, Strait has more No. 1 songs than any other artist in history.

The Texas troubadour will release his 31st career studio album Cowboys And Dreamers on Sept. 6, following 2019’s best-selling Country album, Honky Tonk Time Machine, on MCA Nashville. Produced by Strait and Chuck Ainlay, the album quickly became Strait’s record-extending 27th No. 1 Billboard Country album. Comprised of 12 original titles plus Strait’s version of the Johnny Paycheck classic “Old Violin.” The Country Music Hall of Fame member earned his 100th entry on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with his single “The Weight of the Badge” from the project. For more information, visit GeorgeStrait.com.

Frenchy and the Punk announce eighth album and UK / US tour. Watch the video for lead single 'Hypnotized'

May 17, 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 post-punk duo Frenchy and the Punk present 'Hypnotized', a seductive dance floor romp and the first taste of their eighth album 'Midnight Garden'. Released via EA Recordings, this follows their critically-acclaimed 'Zen Ghost' LP 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.

'Hypnotized' is out now, available everywhere, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. The 'Midnight Garden' album, which is now available for pre-order, will be released on vinyl, CD and digitally on June 28.

The band kicks off their UK tour on May 21, when they play Bristol's Exchange with Miranda Sex Garden. American dates will follow in June. Tour 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
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)
MAY 23 Brighton, UK - Brighton Spiegeltent
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

Belgian dark synth-rock duo LOVELORN DOLLS present 'Diary of Nothing' ahead of 'Deadtime Stories' album (out May 24)

May 17, 2024

Belgian alt-rock duo Lovelorn Dolls present 'Deadtime Stories' - their fourth album to date - and the video for 'Diary Of Nothing', the final song of this sonic storybook. A newspaper with blank pages recalls the empty and empathetic heart of the protagonist, who reminds us of Wednesday Addams. The video refers to the tumultuous sibling relationship between Wednesday and her brother Pugsley, whom she loves to mistreat. Kristell, who plays the main role, also takes great pleasure in mistreating her sidekick, the outcome of working with the same person for 15 years.

Hailing from Brussels, Lovelorn Dolls is Kristell Lowagie (lyrics, vocals) and Bernard Daubresse (programming, guitars, synth). They are back in a big way after a 5-year hiatus that saw Kristell transform into the photographer/ visual artist Kristell In Wonderland, exhibiting throughout Europe. With a gothic rock underbelly, their sound resembles a mix of Theatre of Tragedy, Lacuna Coil and The Birthday Massacre.

"We had a lot of fun creating this video for one of our favorite songs on the album. This song alone sums up the "Lovelorn Dolls” spirit for me," says Kristell Lowagie.

'Deadtime Stories' be released on May 24 via Alfa Matrix / SPLEEN+, joining other great artists on this label, including Front 242, Ayria, Recoil, Leather Strip and Alien Vampires. Earlier, the female-fronted duo previewed singles 'A Heart Cries', 'Dream World' and 'Beautiful Chaos' and also released the 'Deadtime Stories: the Book'featuring the lyrics, accompanying illustrations and photos by Kristell In Wonderland.

On 'Deadtime Stories', the duo embraces a stronger identity – creepy cute ambiance, eerie Tim Burton-esque scenes, guitar-driven sounds, catchy dark melodies, childlike synths, industrial tones, and Kristell’s distinctive voice, all boldly and fully embraced.

The title itself is a cynical play on words, referencing children’s rhymes with a dark twist. Each song delves into themes of death, endings, suicide, broken dreams, loss, and the perilous allure of fame. The artwork also encapsulates this, depicting a lonely girl reading in a cemetery fog.

Produced, mixed and mastered by Maxx Maryan, known for his work with cult electro-goth metal duo Helalyn Flowers and IMJUDAS, the album features several guest appearances, including by Dero Goi (ex-vocalst of OOMPH!) in the duet 'Dancing at Your Funeral', which Goi co-wrote and co-produced. American Gothic rapper VVitchboy also appears on the energetic and enchanting track 'Death & Glory'

Earlier, Lovelorn Dolls released the 'Beautiful Chaos' EP, an ode to love stories gone wrong with five bonus remixes roam from minimal EBM to industrial goth and ethereal wave via contributors The Breath of Life, Absynthe of Faith, Audiopyre, Restriction 9 and Antidote for Annie.

Out May 24, the 'Deadtime Stories' album will be available from fine digital platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. It can also be ordered via the label or directly from the artist via Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Lyrics & vocals by Kristell Lowagie
Music by Bernard Daubresse
Kristell Lowagie - vocals
Bernard Daubresse – guitars & synths
Additional arrangements, programming and synths by Maxx Maryan Recorded in Brussels and Rome
Produced, mixed and mastered by Maxx Maryan
Released via Alfa Matrix
All artwork, design & illustrations by Kristell Lowagie
Artist photos by Kristell In Wonderland

And So I Watch You From Afar Announce New Album "MEGAFAUNA" + Share New Single "Do Mór"

May 16, 2024

Stalwart Irish post-rock outfit And So I Watch You From Afar have announced their seventh full-length album, Megafauna, set for release on August 9, 2024 via Berlin's Pelagic Records and Velocity Records in the U.S.

Pre-order it here.

A tribute to the two places the collective call home, their beloved Portrush on the Irish North Coast and the beating heart that is Belfast, Megafauna is headstrong exploration and heartfelt appreciation with all the intuition, intimacy and humor of four firm friends approaching their 20th year as a band and a nod to the Irish roots that simultaneously ground and propel them forward.

Like so many other bands and creatives throughout the pandemic, ASIWYFA found themselves suddenly stationary, with any plans outside of their immediate vicinity put on indefinite hold. However, where this might have seen other acts falter, ASIWYFA took comfort in their communal bond and, as soon as they were able, began writing a record that quickly became a love letter to the communities they call home.

The intent behind Megafauna is clear from the outset. Two guitars, bass, and drums all recorded in a week erupt into effervescent life in an endorphin rush of collaboration and togetherness after the physical and psychological wilderness of isolation.

The album's lead single "Do Mór" is a preposterously playful collision of light-hearted guitar hooks, effortless jazz syncopation, and the triumphant return of ASIWYFA's inimitable wall-of-sound distortion. Serves as an anthem for the whole album and for a band of friends reunited and reinvigorated too; proudly wearing their distinct juxtaposition of joyous euphoria and jarring musical confrontation on their sleeves. Also listen Below.

Megafauna is the band's first new music since 2022's critically-acclaimed Jettison,an ambitious multi-media ensemble piece packed full of experimentation and collaboration. Jokingly referring to Jettison as their mature record’, the band framed the writing of Megafauna around the their long-running mantra of "DO THE SCARY THING," which sees ASIWYFA constantly hurtling towards newness, towards progress, evolution and the unknown. Whilst the new record is ASIWYFA taking on a more familiar, traditional form; in this post-Jettison, post-pandemic world, Megafauna is a deafening and defiant statement of intent from the band's propulsive core — a clarion call for the communities that shape them, a resplendent celebration of togetherness over separation.

And So I Watch You From Afar's Rory Friers says the following about the album: "Megafauna is essentially a distilled moniker for our peers; all of the friends and characters that we've grown up with who've made us and our homes what they are today. Lockdown was an intensely introspective and reflective process, which put the comfort of community at the forefront of our minds throughout the writing process."

Sable Hills Share "Battle Cry" Video — WATCH // "Odyssey" Out This July

May 16, 2024

NEW ALBUM ODYSSEY OUT JULY 19 VIA ARISING EMPIRE

Sable Hills have dropped the video for new single "Battle Cry," featuring Kenta Koie from the Japanese metalcore band Crossfaith.

Watch it Below.

Stream the song at midnight ET tonight here.

The song lives on their new album Odyssey, out July 19 via Arising Empire.

"Battle Cry" addresses the fight against complacency and the quest for meaning in adversity, challenging listeners to assess their own engagement with life's challenges. As the song intensifies, it encourages listeners to assert themselves, becoming not just a backdrop of aggression but an anthem for self-expression and resilience.

Sable Hills has captivated audiences with electrifying headline tours like Chaos J.P. 2023, featuring global acts such as Like Moths To Flames and Knosis, led by Ryo Kinoshita, former vocalist of Crystal Lake. This tour marked a significant return to Japan for these artists after a long break.

The band rose to fame with their 2019 debut album EMBERS, earning critical acclaim and dominating Japan's metal and loud music scenes. They shared stages with top Japanese bands like Coldrain and Crystal Lake, as well as international acts like Fit For A King and After The Burial, showcasing their broad appeal. Appearances at major festivals like Bloodaxe Festival and True North Festival have further solidified their reputation.

Their second album DUALITY, produced with industry heavyweight Mark Lewis, was another career milestone. It led to a tour from Japan to Europe, with stops at major festivals like Wacken Open Air in Germany and Brutal Assault in the Czech Republic. At Wacken Open Air 2022, Sable Hills made history by becoming the first Japanese band to win the METAL BATTLE.

In 2023, the band continued their successful streak, selling out their show at Spotify O-WEST and performing at major events like BLARE FEST and KNOTFEST, and returning to Wacken Open Air. Their self-hosted FRONTLINE FESTIVAL at Kawasaki Club Citta was especially successful, drawing nearly 1,000 attendees.

From Fall to Spring Share New Video "CONTROL"

May 15, 2024

From Fall to Spring present their second single since the release of their debut album RISE, while amassing over 20 million streams to date.

"CONTROL" is a compelling new single that delves deep into themes of personal turmoil and the search for self-mastery amidst chaos. The lyrics explore feelings of losing grip on oneself, as evident in lines like "I lost control of myself / There's no love left." The song captures a fierce determination to overcome, highlighting a struggle against internal demons and external influences.

Again, From Fall to Spring effortlessly blend metalcore with rap and electronic elements into their unique sound, creating a dynamic and genre-defying musical experience.

Listen to the new single here. It will be available worldwide on all DSP's at midnight.

Watch the video Below.

From Fall to Spring, emerging talents from the southwest of Germany, have wholeheartedly embraced the genre of melodic metal. Their journey began with two self-produced EPs, A Better Tomorrow (2017) and Disconnected (2019), which propelled them to an impressive start, breaking the one million clicks milestone on popular streaming platforms by 2020. The single "Supernova" marked their first foray into international recognition, stirring considerable interest abroad. Alongside their debut album, RISE, they have collectively amassed over 20 million streams across their discography, attesting to their rapidly growing popularity and the compelling appeal of their music.

Given these remarkable achievements, it's no surprise that the music industry swiftly took notice of From Fall To Spring, leading to their subsequent signing with Arising Empire—one of Germany's premier rock and metal labels. This partnership gave "rise" to five singles, each accompanied by its own music video, significantly boosting the visibility of From Fall To Spring's social media presence.

The band, comprising twin brothers Philip and Lukas Wilhelm (both on vocals), Simon Triem (keyboard), Benedikt Veith (drums), Sebastian Monzel (guitar), and León Arend (bass), has since cultivated a substantial digital following. Their dynamic presence resonates through platforms like TikTok, where they boast over 109,000 followers, and Instagram, with a growing community of more than 31,000 enthusiasts.

FROM FALL TO SPRING ARE:
Philip Wilhelm — Vocals
Lukas Wilhelm — Vocals + Guitar
Sebastian Monzel — Guitar
León Arend — Bass
Simon Triem — Keys
Benedikt Veith — Drums

Insanity Alert Streaming New EP

May 15, 2024

[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.

"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

Ski parties visit Austria for its powdered slopes, but when Insanity Alert banded together around Innsbruck in 2011, they had a different type of shredding in mind. The band's destructive appetite for crossover thrash is only rivaled by their unquenchable thirst for ice-cold beer and a jonesing for good bud(s).

Insanity Alert keep their high-minded antics coming on their new EP.Moshemian Thrashody comes out this Friday, May 17, on Season of Mist. But you can crack into this fresh four-pack today by listening to the full album stream on our YouTube channel.

Listen to Moshemian Thrashody Below.

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

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

Moshemian Thrashody shows that Insanity Alert are still nothing but a good time. These wild men waste no time stage diving into the mosh pit with a frothy spin on "Welcome to the Jungle". Their new EP gets into plenty more of their old tricks, too. Iron Maiden would be scared silly by how fast Dave of Death shreds through "Beer in the Park".

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

Just like the morning after an all-night rager, Insanity Alert are full of surprises. When “Beerless Fiesta” opens with a faint but familiar waft of saxophone, it throws you for a loop, kind of like an edible that your friends swore was just a regular old brownie. Wait, are they about to take on…George Michael?

“I’m never gonna drink again”, Heavy Kevy screams in agony, as if wrapped around the toilet.

Even one hell of a hangover isn't enough to stop Insanity Alert from partying like it's the '80s. On Moshemian Thrashody, the band still goes anywhere the weed blows. Of course, if you're going to come for Queen, then you best not miss. But these guys hit all the right notes. Don Melanzani chugs D-beats. Slapmaster Puke burps out delicious bass grooves. As if by some especially potent magic mushroom, Galileo is transformed into Ronnie James Dio.

“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.

"Our new EP is full of killer tunes that we threw in our drunken 420 blender" Insanity Alert says. “Moshemian Thrashody rides the thin line between familiar and super awkward – like getting shitfaced with your favorite high school teacher or masturbating for the first time with your other hand. Enjoy!”

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)

There's only one way to welcome a new album from Insanity Alert: a summerlong tour! Crack open some beers, roll up a spliff and prepare to meet the wall of death when the band debut Moshemian Thrashody at some of Europe's biggest and heaviest festivals.

A SHORELINE DREAM teams up with RIDE's MARK GARDENER on 'Everything Turns', previewing eighth album

May 14, 2024

"Delicate curves and beauty... a glorious dawn" – PopMatters

"One of the leading lights of the neo-shoegaze movement" – DKFM

"Shadowy and storming dreaminess" – Stereo Embers Magazine

"A Shoreline Dream and Mark Gardener open the gate to a garden of sonic enchantment built on trance-inducing spine-tinglingly magnificence... a masterpiece – dare we call it an instant classic for lovers of post-punk, dream-rock and shoegaze" ~ Spill Magazine

Bandcamp https://ashorelinedream.bandcamp.com/track/everything-turns
Test Pressing video preview https://youtu.be/rA6BEMT4Tyc
Album order https://ashorelinedream.bandcamp.com/album/whitelined
iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/album/id/1742404415

Progressive shoegaze stalwarts A Shoreline Dream are back with flair as they present their new single 'Everything Turns', featuring Ride frontman Mark Gardener. This is the first taste of 'Whitelined', the band's eighth full-length record, following their 2022 critically acclaimed 'Loveblind' album. Out on July 19, this new offering will be released as a limited edition of 180g white vinyl LP and digitally via Latenight Weeknight Records.

Formed in 2005, A Shoreline Dream is now multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Ryan Policky and guitarist Erik Jeffries, who are based in Barnum, Colorado. This album sees them team up with Gardener to craft a record where shimmering walls of sound wash of turbulent percussion and swooning vocals to weave an otherworldly sonic reality.

The video for 'Everything Turns' was filmed, directed and edited by Ryan Policky for Latenight Weeknight Records, LLC. Captured in Denver, Colorado in April 2024, it features Julianna Beckert as the wandering actress.

“It was great and one of those life-fate meant-to-be chances to connect with Ryan and A Shoreline Dream. Ryan sent a good few tracks through to me from Denver to my Ox4 Sound Studio in Oxfordshire and the first backing track I totally connected with was the track that was to become 'Everything Turns'," says Mark Gardener.

"Lyrically, it’s a reflection on how technology is taking over and, the more connected we get with it, the more alone we can find ourselves in the real World. The backing track was special and the chemistry really happened with this track. It was a joy to ride these sonic waves with Ryan throughout the whole creative process. IN the end “Everything Turns!"

Policky and Jeffries first met Gardener at a Ride show in Denver on Policky’s birthday. Working together throughout 2023 between Ride tour dates, they wrapped up three songs, co-written and co-produced, near the one-year mark.

““Right after seriously one of the best shows in recent memory, we threw around the idea of collaborating. This was such an amazing collab. Mark was super open stylistically and the ideas flowed. I think we created something neither of us were fully expecting. Making art with true pioneers is why I continue down this path," says Ryan Policky.

"Working with Mark, who impressed me with his songwriting so many eons ago, was like nothing else. It was like a process of possibilities somehow all hitting at once, all for the right reasons, and all in a way I don't think either of us could have expected. It was on my 2023 birthday that it somehow took shape".

Mark Kramer (Urge Overkill, Bongwater, Shimmy Records) oversaw the mastering and the record's preparation for direct-to-vinyl production. 'Whitelined' will be the first A Shoreline Drive album released as a vinyl LP, fittingly on 180G white vinyl. The album art is based off a photo taken by Policky at Yellowstone in 2008, and re-worked into an oil on photo on canvas, shortly after experiencing that place.

Over the past two decades, A Shoreline Dream has churned out numerous releases under their own label (Latenight Weeknight Records), working with legends Ulrich Schnauss and Mark Kramer, and landing distribution by iconic UK indie label Rocket Girl Records for music written while visiting Ulrich in Leytonstone. They've remixed Engineers' music for progressive label gods K-Scope and also opened for Chapterhouse for their very final appearance.

As of May 14, 'Everything Turns' is available exclusively via Bandcamp. As of May 20, the 'Whitelined' album will be available for pre-order as a limited edition on 180g white vinyl. On July 19, the album can also be found on Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Tracks 2, 5 and 10 co-written by Ryan Policky & Mark Gardener
All other songs written by Ryan Policky & Erik Jeffries
Tracks 2, 5 and 10 co-produced by Ryan Policky & Mark Gardener
All other songs recorded, mixed and produced by Ryan Policky
Mastered by Mark Kramer
Distributed by The Orchard
Copyright 2024 Latenight Weeknight Records, LLC
Cover art and photography by Ryan Policky
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR
Video created by Ryan Policky
Filmed in Denver. CO in April 2024, starring Julianna Beckert
Video copyright 2024, Latenight Weeknight Records, LLC

Get The Shot Share "Dominant Predation" Feat. Paleface Swiss Video

May 14, 2024

Hailing from Quebec City, Canada, Get The Shot was formed in 2009 and has since become one of the flag bearers of the Quebec hardcore and metal scene.

Known for their authentic, spirited hardcore music, the band delivers a powerful blend of thrash, death metal, and beatdown elements, drawing influences from iconic bands like Hatebreed, Obituary, Slayer, and Machine Head.

Get The Shot have honed a unique style that remains true to the roots of hardcore punk. Committed to the core values of authenticity and equality, their music critically explores the challenges of today's individualistic society while captivating fans with its intense and brutal sound.

Get The Shot, now signed to Arising Empire, have collaborated with Zelli from deathcore heavyweight Paleface Swiss for their newest single "Dominant Predation."

This new track combines Get The Shot's hardcore essence with Paleface Swiss's intense style, resulting in a powerful fusion of energy and aggressive riffs. This release underlines both bands' dedication to delivering impactful, high-energy music.

Check out the music video for "Dominant Predation" Below.

It will be available worldwide on all DSPs at midnight. Stream, download here.

Get The Shot emerged as a formidable force in the hardcore scene since their inception, launching with Perdition in 2012 and quickly establishing a raw, uncompromising style. Their discography, which includes No Peace In Hell (2014), Infinite Punishment (2017), and the JUNO-nominated Merciless Destruction (2022), reflects a consistent refinement of their intense sound and a broadening of their global reach through extensive touring.

With over 500 concerts across three continents, including prominent appearances at festivals like Wacken, Hellfest, and Summerbreeze, Get The Shot have solidified their reputation with impactful tracks and explosive live performances. Their music, characterized by a potent combination of aggression and principled themes, continues to resonate deeply with fans. The band remains committed to the core values of authenticity, integrity, and equality, addressing the disillusioned realism and flaws of an era marked by blind individualism.

Recently, Get The Shot entered an exciting new chapter with a massive release in collaboration with Zelli from Paleface Swiss under their new label. This partnership marks yet another step in their journey, as they continue to embody the rage and anger towards the brutal realities of our world, cementing their standing on international stages and within the hardcore community.

Catch Get The Shot live on the following dates:

GET THE SHOT ON TOUR:
5/17 – Manchester, NH — Jewel
5/18 — Brooklyn, NY — Monarch
5/19 — Philadelphia, PA — Milkboy
5/21 — Albany, NY — Empire
5/22 — Pittsburgh, PA — Preserving
5/23 — Cleveland, OH — The Foundry
5/24— Detroit, MI — Sanctuary
5/25 — Chicago, IL — Cobra Lounge

GET THE SHOT IS:
Jean-Philippe Lagacé — Vocals
Tom Chiasson — Guitar
Olivier Roy — Guitar
Dany Roberge — Bass
Patrick Woods — Drums

Black Lava Dig Deeper and Darker on New Single

May 14, 2024

"Familiar yet undeniably creative, heavy and a clear statement in the darkness of music" - Metal Roos

"Practically forces you to headbang" - Metal Injection

"One of the more impressive debuts of recent years" - Distorted Sound

Though they formed with the ease of a natural stream, Black Lava whisk together a wickedly wide cauldron of influences. Sludgy grooves boil with melodic dissonance and old-school death metal, bubbling over into medieval fantasies.

The Australian band are now adding a fresh layer of dark and doomy atmosphere to this potent concoction with their upcoming second albumThe Savage Winds to Wisdom. Today, they're revealing "Unsheathing Nightmares", the album's second single, which summons a coven of witches amidst a punishing thunderstorm.

Watch the video for "Unsheathing Nightmares" Below.

The Savage Winds to Wisdom comes out July 12, 2024 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Stream: https://orcd.co/blacklavathesavagewindstowisdom

As with all things that go bump in the night, "Unsheathing Nightmares" lures you in before hooking its claws into your skull. Drummer Dan Presland (Vipassi, ex-Ne Obliviscaris) crashes and rumbles behind clouds of buzzing distortion, only for a riff to reign down with the headbanging force of an executioner.

"There was greater care taken with compositions on The Savage Winds to Wisdom", says guitarist Ben Boyle, who also handles axe duties for Vipassi. "Our new album has a greater sense of depth than our first one. The riffs and melodies are more layered, while staying true to what Black Lava does: heavy but catchy anthems that tell an epic story with a real sense of atmosphere".

On "Unsheathing Nightmares", Rob Watkins still growls with all the towering menace of a ravenous ogre. "Speak to me, O silent one!". But beneath the song's snaking leviathan of a bass line stirs an even more menacing and elusive force. You can practically hear his eyes rolling into the back of his head as he calls upon an ancient evil amidst hellish, rain-soaked ambience.

"When writing lyrics, I try and stay true to the spirit of metal, but really I'm just channeling how the music makes me feel," Watkins says. "'Unsheathing Nightmares' is one of the songs on The Savage Winds to Wisdom that really excited me. I hope our fans will feel that way, too".

The video for "Unsheathing Nightmares" was filmed and directed by Colin Jeffs. It was edited and coloured by Dan Presland and produced by Black Lava.

Not even the most stifling period in recent history could contain Black Lava. Despite being kept under strict lockdown during the pandemic, these Aussies were just stewing together, waiting to erupt. Now, only two years removed from their smoldering debut, the band are roaring back with even more mythical firepower on The Savage Winds to Wisdom.

“Our second album is a step up from the first in all aspects”, drummer Dan Presland says. “We took more time on the songwriting. The Savage Winds to Wisdom shows exactly where we want to take our music”.

Though possessed by an ancient and mysterious alchemy, Black Lava formed with the ease of a natural spring. Over the past decade, all four members have crossed paths around the various corners of Melbourne’s metal underground. On top of their progressive all-instrumental vision quests in Vipassi, Presland also drums alongside Hadal Maw guitarist Ben Boyle in the grinding, tech-death, underground curiosity A Million Dead Birds Laughing. But when the two got together to blow off steam amidst quarantine at Presland’s newly minted home studio, they were pleasantly surprised by the darkness that swept over these jam sessions.

“Both of us were dealing with a lot of pent-up frustrations”, Presland remembers. A few weeks before, his flight home from America (where he was supposed to track the drums for Ne Obliviscaris’ fourth album Exul) touched down hours before Australia closed its borders. “But that anger, coupled with our need to keep creating, led us in a different direction”.

Progressive metal was still a clear undercurrent, but the songs that came spewing out were unusually heavy. Death and black metal held more sway, though sludgy rock n’ roll also found its way into the mix. Such a peculiar range of influences required a vocalist with a very particular set of pipes. Fortunately, Rob Watkins jumped at the opportunity to reunite with Presland, who was the drummer in their thrash band Metalstorm. With Watkins’ Blackhelm bassist Tim Anderson added to the fold, Black Lava burst onto the scene in 2022 with their smoldering debut.

“Soul Furnace more than lives up to those lofty expectations”, Distorted Sound hailed, “proving to not only be a late contender for album of the year, but also one of the more impressive debut albums of recent years”.

Black Lava wasted no time in keeping the juices flowing. The band was already hard at work on their second album while the first one was hot on the shelves. The Savage Winds to Wisdom stirs from the same cauldron of influences. Lead single “Ironclad Sarcophagus” echoes from the crypt with eerie countermelodies and a rhythm section that’s more bewitching than a spell book.

“I pictured this ancient wizard sending out evil vibes into the world in hopes of tricking someone into opening his coffin”, Watkins says. “When writing lyrics, I try and stay true to the spirit of metal. But really, I’m just channeling how the music makes me feel”.

If Soul Furnace was like stumbling upon the entrance to an ancient cave, then The Savage Winds to Wisdom is a fiery, full-blown descent into the belly of the beast. “Dark Legacy” rings through the long black night with one sustained roar of a guitar roar, like an angry, one-eyed ogre. But while the songs came quickly, with Presland and Boyle carving out monstrous riffs and scaly grooves for Watkins to splatter his medieval fantasies, Black Lava took their time with this album. It's not until nearly three minutes into the opening number, after “Colour of Death” has boiled to a full headbang, that the first of its many horns-up roars is unleashed.

“There was greater care taken with compositions on The Savage Winds to Wisdom”, Boyle says. “There’s more depth and layering to the riffs and melodies. Calling on a more broad list of inspirations and tones, the album has a real sense of balance, a certain quality that will lend itself to repeat listens and attention to detail, while still staying true to what Black Lava set out to do; create heavy, yet energetic and catchy anthemic tunes that tell a story and emanate a sense of atmosphere and power for the listener.”

True to its name, The Savage Winds to Wisdom swirls within a deeper and darker sense of atmosphere. Whereas before their bang-bang approach to songwriting resembled something closer to a punk rock band, this time around, Black Lava concentrated more on atmosphere. “Unsheathing Nightmares” reveals its root source of terror in careful layers, mutating from raw black metal and razor-sharp tech-death into a rainy, ambient hellscape. “That’s one of the songs that really excited me”, says Watkins, who calls upon a coven of witches by digging into the slimier depths of his baritone.

The title track is big enough to stand alone as its own self-contained world. Winding over the course of seven eventful minutes, it’s the longest and perhaps most ambitious song in Black Lava’s musical geology. Blast beats pound like hail beneath waves of distortion that crash with the force of a monsoon. “The silents of fate” Watkins reckons, like a sea captain stranded among the wreckage. “The thousand winds swirl the soul”. Swept up by a screeching solo from special guest Ben Baret (Ne Obliviscaris), the song whirls into an unstoppable force, a torrential finale that brings this album to a truly epic conclusion.

“We sharpened our tools with this album”, the band says. “We went a little more brutal and that sets the tone for where we’ll head in the future.

On The Savage Winds to Wisdom, Black Lava conduct a perfect storm.

Recording line-up
Dan Presland (drums)
Ben Boyle (guitar)
Ben Boyle (bass)
Rob Watkins (vocals)

Guest musician
Benjamin Baret (Ne Obliviscaris, Vipassi) plays the guitar solo on "The Savage Winds to Wisdom".

Live line-up
Dan Preslans (drums
Ben Boyle (guitar)
Nick Rackham (bass)
Rob Watkins (vocals)

Recording studio
Bushido Studios in Melbourne, Australia

Producer and sound engineer
Troy Mccosker

Mastering, mixing and engineering
Studio Fredman and Fredrick Nordstrom

Cover art
Paolo Girardi

Pre-order & Stream: https://orcd.co/blacklavathesavagewindstowisdom

Follow Black Lava
https://www.facebook.com/BLACKLAVA00
https://www.instagram.com/blacklava.aus/
https://blacklava-aus.bandcamp.com/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/1KnUaYbFhPHqEgEvySQYxw?si=IboyCWpOTa2e4fqiUfG2XQ

Available Formats
Digital Download
CD Digipack
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Black)
12" Colored Vinyl Gatefold (Gold with Silver Splatters)

Edinburgh's Boulder Fields presents sublime single 'Wipe Out The Stars' ahead of debut album 'With All The Other Ghosts'

May 14, 2024

“Combines Scottish folk with Americana and indie, creating an engaging, stirring musical blend… gorgeous, timeless music that comes highly recommended” ~ Americana UK

"Upbeat and infectious with a feel-good vibe. A catchy melody, constructed at the crossroads of folk, rock and pop, this is an earworm to leave you grinning as you grab a pint or the hand of your partner for a hearty dance" ~ The Spill Magazine

Scottish indie-folk troubadour Boulder Fields will release his new single 'Wipe Out The Stars', inspired by his love for and attachment to his hometown of Edinburgh, following the rockier uptempo lead track 'Measures' . Both tracks preview the various shades of the refined indie folk / indie rock on offer in his debut album ‘With All The Other Ghosts’, to be released via Scottish indie imprint Let There Be Numbers.

“And we can’t escape now and so we remain
Forever enthralled by the mist and the rain.
And we never noticed you tricking our hearts
Sweeping us up when we’d fallen apart.”

'Wipe Out the Stars'
Bandcamp https://boulderfields.bandcamp.com/track/wipe-out-the-stars
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/track/1wDDRVroUmvTLm2eNiKUlb
Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/artist/boulder-fields/1619298181
‘With All The Other Ghosts’ album pre-order
https://boulderfields.bandcamp.com/album/with-all-the-other-ghosts

Boulder Fields revolves around Scottish singer-songwriter Cam Fraser, formerly of Borrowed Books and 80s punk legends The Cateran, who joined Nirvana on the 1989 UK tour that broke the band, as well as touring or sharing the stage with The Proclaimers, Tad and Grant Hart (Husker Du),

"I’ve lived in Edinburgh – more or less – since I came here as a student. I’ve tried to leave. Honestly, I have. But here I am. And here I stay. It can be a cold place. Not just the weather," says Cam Fraser.

"Anyway, back to the city. Is there a better city to live in? Maybe. But not for me. My family and friends are here. My favourite café. My favourite pubs. My favourite people. I’ve long accepted that I’ll very likely die here. They can scatter my ashes in the park I run round and round and round as I try to fend off the dying bit for a good while longer. So it’s a love song. Living and dying in the city. I think Suzy’s drumming is superbly understated, likewise Richie’s organ playing. Aly’s bassline and his little improvised piano part are perfect."

This long-play record features eleven thoughtful tracks with beautiful, stripped-down arrangements. Mainly played on acoustic instruments, these songs are enveloped with sonorous harmonies and delivered with fierce intensity, recalling these artists' collective punk history.

On ‘With All The Other Ghosts’, Cam (vocals, guitar) forms the core three-piece with his long-time collaborator Aly Barr (bass, vocals) and the talented Suzy Cargill (drums, vocals). Since their debut performance as a collective at 2022's Belladrum Festival, they have played several very well-received shows around Edinburgh, some as a three-piece and some with the extended line-up.

This album also features Jamie Watson, a hugely respected figure in the Scottish music scene. Perhaps best known as a producer for the likes of Snow Patrol and The Vaselines, or former owner of Chamber Studio, Watson was also a member of such influential Scottish bands as The Monos, The Solos and The Persian Rugs. Jamie and Cam first worked together back in the 1980s, when Cam’s band rehearsed and recorded at Jamie’s studio. On acoustic guitar for several tracks, he contributes some impressive finger-style guitar, in addition to tapping his vast experience in helping create the final mix.

Fraser adds, "The album owes a lot to the very lovely guy who sat behind the mixing desk, Richie Werner at B&B Studios. As well as fretting about all the technical stuff and making sure he got the best possible sound out of all the instruments, Richie also fired up his studio’s old Hammond organ and played on a couple of songs."

On May 14, 'Wipe Out The Stars' is available from fine digital outlets, including Apple Music and Bandcamp. The album 'With All the Other Ghosts', on June 14, is already available for pre-order.

ALBUM CREDITS
Music and lyrics written by Cam Fraser (PRS / BMI)
Cam Fraser - vocals, acoustic guitar
Aly Barr - acoustic bass, vocals, piano
Suzy Cargill - drums, percussion, mandolin, vocals
Richie Werner - organ
Jamie Watson - acoustic guitar, mixing support
Recorded, mixed & mastered by Richie Werner at B&B Studios
Album cover design & artwork by Cam Fraser
Front cover photography by John MacPherson
Catalogue No: LTBNLP703
Videos by Cam Fraser