CANDLEMASS Celebrates 40th Anniversary With New EP "Black Star," Out 5/9

Swedish godfathers of epic doom CANDLEMASS celebrate their 40th anniversary of pioneering the genre with a four-track EP, Black Star. Packed with craterous riffs, this celebration of doom metal mastery is set for release on May 9 via Napalm Records.

With Black Star, the genre-defying band unveils two brand-new songs alongside two cover versions of timeless classics. The EP will be available in various formats, including a strictly limited vinyl edition featuring a 12-page vinyl booklet, an A3 poster, and a tote bag.
 

CANDLEMASS mastermind Leif Edling comments: 

"Not all bands get to see their 40th birthday and it certainly hasn't been an easy ride. But many ups and downs later, we stand here as survivors, veterans even… a bit scarred perhaps? Still ready though to unleash another piece of doom-laden metal upon an unsuspecting world. You have to do something when you turn 40, right? Anyway, as always, it's been fun recording some new stuff as well as covering a couple of old favorites."

Get your copy of Black Star here. 

WATCH THE ANNIVERSARY TRAILER BELOW:

Title track, "Black Star," blends haunting melodies with deeply introspective lyrics, brought to life by the dark, romantic voice of vocalist Johan Länquist. Songwriter Leif Edling's lyrics delve into themes of existential struggle, temptation, and the allure of darkness — creating an intense atmosphere imbued with CANDLEMASS' signature sound. The second new track, "Corridors Of Chaos," marks a true old school instrumental containing both classic metal riffing and stunning guitar playing by Lars Johansson, showcasing the band's mastery of dynamics. Adding to this tribute, CANDLEMASS delivers a cover of Black Sabbath's iconic "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath," taking listeners back to 1973. This is followed by their rendition of Pentagram’s classic "Forever My Queen," further cementing CANDLEMASS' remarkable contribution to shaping the genre into what it is today.

CANDLEMASS ARE:
Johan Länquist — Vocals
Lars Johansson — Lead Guitar
Mappe Björkman — Rhythm Guitar
Leif Edling — Bass
Janne Lind — Drums

Melodic Rockers GIANT Return With New Album ‘Stand And Deliver’ Out May 16th via Frontiers Music Srl

Melodic rockers GIANT are excited to announce the upcoming release of their new album ‘Stand And Deliver’, out on May 16th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl. To coincide with the announcement, the band shares the first single, “Hold The Night,” with an accompanying lyric video, available to view below.

Drummer and founder David Huff expressed his excitement for the new album:

“Making GIANT records has always been our passion! Thanks to everyone at Frontiers; we can make our dreams happen. I know it’s a bit of a different lineup, but whoever is in the lineup, the legacy of GIANT lives on”.



Watch the Lyric Video for “Hold The Night" Below:

GIANT return with a powerful new chapter in their storied career, featuring a fresh lineup that propels the band's signature sound to exhilarating new heights.

The forthcoming album entitled 'Stand And Deliver' showcases once again the talents of David Huff on drums, Mike Brignardello on bass, Kent Hilli (of Perfect Plan) as the commanding lead vocalist, with the addition of Jimmy Westerlund (One Desire) on guitars. Westerlund also takes on mixing duties alongside Alessandro Del Vecchio, who adds his touch on keyboards as a featured guest.

As if this dynamic combination of talent was not enough, the album also includes some gems penned by the original guitarist and singer Dann Huff including “Time To Call It Love” (a collaboration with the late Mark Spiro), “Holdin’ On For Dear Life” and “Paradise Found”, coming both from his sessions with Van Stephenson, which strongly link the new album with the sound of the classic album 'Time To Burn'.

However, with this new album, GIANT deliver the hard-hitting rock and melodic hooks that fans have come to expect, while pushing the boundaries of the genre with a state-of-the-art production. 

Pre-Order 'Stand And Deliver' HERE

Originally formed in the late '80s by brothers Dann and David Huff, together with the experienced jazz and rock keyboardist Alan Pasqua and Nashville session bass player Mike Brignardello, GIANT would soon become one of the most respected bands of the melodic hard rock scene, with the release of their debut album 'Last Of The Runaways' (A&M Records, 1989).

Following countless live performances in support of their debut, the band released the follow-up 'Time To Burn' (Epic, 1991), an album still regarded as a main source of influence for many melodic and hard rock bands who came after. With the sudden change of musical climate in the early '90s, GIANT disbanded with their members becoming involved in different projects, with both Dann and David Huff becoming well respected producers.

In 2001, Frontiers prompted GIANT to release 'III', an album that would prove to be a landmark in the growth of the new era Melodic Rock scene, particularly in Europe. Unfortunately, Dann's busy schedule along with the other members' commitments made the reunion impossible to carry on as had originally been planned; however, the vision of bringing GIANT back as a band with a recording and touring line-up was something that the band was still open to exploring, even if Dann had to step away.

Thus, original members, drummer David Huff and bassist Mike Brignardello, with the blessing of Dann started endless research for the right musicians that could be part of a renewed GIANT line-up. In the end, the choice fell on vocalist Terry Brock (ex-Strangeways) and guitarist John Roth (Winger, Starship).

The resulting album, 'Promise Land' soon became a fan favorite, showcasing top quality songwriting and performances. GIANT, however, went into hibernation again, with the exception of a one-off show in 2017, where the original band members reunited on a Nashville club stage for a charity event.

That event piqued fan interest and Frontiers and David Huff started talking again to see if they could manage to find the right formula for a new album from GIANT. When the Swedish bandPerfect Plan released a cover version of the GIANT’s original hit “Stay” in 2019, all the pieces of the puzzle started to fall into place.

Huff and Brignardello were keen on the idea of Kent handling lead vocals for the next GIANTrelease. Dann Huff gave his seal of approval, appearing on lead guitar on the single “Never Die Young”, which anticipated the successful release in 2022 of the 'Shifting Time' album.

GIANT are:

Kent Hilli - Lead Vocals

Jimmy Westerlund - Lead Guitar

Mike Brignardello - Bass

David Huff - Drums

Gaahls WYRD Announce New Album 'Braiding the Stories'

Under the ghostly glow of nightfall, inside the deep corridors of Norway's mythic wilderness, rises Gaahls WYRD, once again shrouded in mystery. The Norwegian Grammy winners' upcoming second album journeys inward, between the riverbeds of consciousness and dreams. With each cosmic chord, each cold and haunting beat, Kristian "Gaahl" Espedal and his mystical band untell the stories, and in the process, braid the roots that cradle the unseen.  

Braiding the Stories comes out June 6, 2025 on Season of Mist.

Watch the video for the title track below:

Pre-order & Pre-save
First pressing includes special hair-filled vinyl
https://orcd.co/gaahlswyrdbraidinggthestories

The striking cover art by visual artist Øivind Myksvoll (Wardruna, Trelldom) is just as mysterious and arresting as his work for The Humming Mountain. Look closely and you’ll find what appears to be hair (aka the veil) and the cosmos (crystallized wine from Gaahl’s collection). Indeed, the group’s signature horned figure lurks between the layers. For Gaahls WYRD, music, lyrics, concept, and art are synonymous. They’re designed to be experienced in their entirety and in unison. Braiding the Stories isn’t an obvious listen, but it gently (and sometimes maniacally) pulls at the listener. The sensation of the journey from opener “The Dream” to closing epic “Flowing Starlight” is quite unlike anything before. All hail Braiding the Stories!

Line-up
Kristian Espedal (Gaahl) - All Voices
Ole Walaunet (Lust Kilman) - All Guitars
Andreas Salbu (Nekroman) - Bass
Kevin Kvåle (Spektre) - Drums

Production Credits
Recorded at Solslottet Studio, Bergen, Norway.
Produced by Iver Sandøy & Gaahls WYRD.
Mixed & mastered by Iver Sandøy at Solslottet Studio, Bergen, Norway.

Cover Art
Øivind Myksvoll

Biography
Chris Dick

Pre-order & Pre-save
https://orcd.co/gaahlswyrdbraidinggthestories

Follow Gaahl's Wyrd
Bandcamp:https://gaahlswyrd.bandcamp.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/gaahlswyrd/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/gaahlswyrd
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7h8V7XHdJ3akShW3uFaZyn
Apple Music:https://music.apple.com/artist/gaahls-wyrd/1451373309
TIDAL:https://tidal.com/browse/artist/10911081
Deezer:https://www.deezer.com/artist/58388182

ENVY OF NONE’S NEW SINGLE ‘THE STORY’ OUT TODAY WITH NEW VIDEO, TAKEN FROM THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW ALBUM STYGIAN WAVZ Aol

Ahead of the release of their new album Stygian Wavz (March 28th, Kscope), American/Canadian fourpiece Envy Of None have shared a brand-new single today. The second track from the new album, ‘The Story’ holds a special place in each of the band member’s hearts and is brought to life with a stunning new video by Jaden D.

Speaking about the new single and inspiration behind the video, songwriter and vocalist Maiah Wynne shared “I wrote about wanting to be better, to grow, and the sense of desperation that comes with that desire. To me, the song is about the struggle of not being able to break bad cycles. I had been stuck for a very long time and was trying to be better. I think it’s a theme a lot of people can connect with in some way. Whether it's habits, addiction, self-sabotage, or just unhealthy patterns, we all are trapped by something we are trying to break away from. If I had the power to write my own story, I’d want to be the hero, but so often I am my own villain.”

Envy Of None announced their new album back in January and have so far shared 3 standout singles, ‘Not Dead Yet’, ‘Under The Stars’ and ‘Stygian Waves’. To promote the album, the band recently appeared on Talk Shop Live in the US with host Steve Harkins to discuss the creation of Stygian Wavz, the writing and recording process and plans for the future. Check it out here.

STREAM/DOWNLOAD THE NEW SINGLE ‘THE STORY’

Though they’d never describe themselves as such,Envy Of Noneare the living, breathing definition of a supergroup. No other band on earth could rightly claim to have Alex Lifeson – one of rock’s most influential visionaries – heading up guitar duties, with Andy Curran of Coney Hatch and Soho 69 overseeing bass/programming as well as producer extraordinaire Alfio Annibalini on keyboards. However, the star in this band could very well be its youngest member – American singer-songwriter Maiah Wynne – whose wonderfully emotive vocals are able to spin the music in new exciting directions that thrill to the core.

On their self-titled debut of 2022, the group were able to prove that they were a lot more than the sum of their parts, with an abundance of panache and finesse poured into a contemporary alt rock sound that was hard to predict and even harder to categorise. This year’s sophomore release,Stygian Wavz, is the sound of a band basking in the radiant glow of creative confidence and coming into their own, staggering the listener with every twist and turn encased within their heady mix of genre-splicing brilliance.

PRE-ORDER ALL FORMATS, RELEASED MARCH 28TH, 2025

Envy Of None are:

Alex Lifeson- Guitar, Mandola, Banjo, Programming
Maiah Wynne - Lead Vocals, Background Vocals, Keyboards
Alf Annibalini - Guitar, Keyboards, Programming
Andy Curran - Bass Guitar, Synthesized Bass, Programming, Guitar, Background

Vocals, Stylophone
Follow Envy Of None:
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www.kscopemusic.com/artists/envyofnone
https://envyofnone.com/

CWF (Champlin, Williams, Friestedt) Release New Video for "Wings of Tomorrow"

CWF is a supergroup featuring TOTO's Joseph Williams, former Chicago vocalist Bill Champlin, and Swedish guitarist/producer Peter Friestedt. The band emerged following the success of their first studio album and a chart-topping live DVD in Sweden. Williams, known for his work with TOTO and as the singing voice of adult Simba in The Lion King, brings his acclaimed vocals to the project. Friestedt, an accomplished session player and producer with two successful solo albums, has collaborated extensively with Williams. Champlin, a 25-year veteran of Chicago and Grammy-winning songwriter, rounds out this remarkable AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) trio, bringing together decades of musical expertise and success.

Today, the legends of CWF release their new video for "Wings of Tomorrow" off of their latest album, 'CWF III', which is out now via Black Lodge.

Watch the Video for "Wings of Tomorrow" Below:

One of the most anticipated releases of 2024, 'CWF III,' is set to become a milestone in the AOR/West Coast genre. This highly anticipated album, which is available now, follows the tremendous success of 'CWF II,' which achieved impressive chart positions in Sweden and Japan, along with the chart-topping 'Live In Concert' DVD.

The album features an impressive lineup of iconic artists, making it a true celebration of the AOR/West Coast sound. Alongside Williams, Champlin, and Friestedt, contributions from Chicago’s Jason Scheff on vocals and bass, legendary drummer John JR Robinson, and Grammy Award-winning songwriters Randy Goodrum and Bill Champlin ensure top-notch production quality and a stellar listening experience.

Musically, the album offers a rich journey through rock, soul, and classic AOR elements. Key tracks include the TOTO-flavored "Brighter Day," featuring stellar lead vocals from Joseph Williams, the Chicago-sounding ballad "Find The Love," and the straightforward rock anthem "Wings of Tomorrow." Another highlight is the soulful duet "I Will Find You There,"performed by Michael Ruff and Bill Champlin.

Order 'CWF III' HERE

RONNIE ROMERO Announces New Album ‘Live At Rock Imperium Festival’ Out On May 23rd, 2025 Via Frontiers Music Srl

Legendary singer RONNIE ROMERO is thrilled to announce the release of his new album, 'Live At Rock Imperium Festival', set for release on May 23, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl.

'Live At Rock Imperium Festival' sees ROMERO delivering an impressive musical performance in front of a huge passionate audience, in one of the biggest European festivals, the Spanish Rock Imperium Festival, including songs from his first solo album and some other highlights like today's single, the Dio cover “Rainbow In The Dark”, which is out now and accompanied by a live video available to view below.

RONNIE ROMERO commented on the new single by saying:

“'Rainbow In The Dark' is one of those songs we have on the setlist that we really enjoy playing and singing along with every audience! I also want to show appreciation to one of the most important rock singers in history, Ronnie James Dio. This is my humble and respectful tribute to the influence he has always had on my singing and the way to approach life as a musician and rock lover! Long Live Dio!!”



Watch the New Live Video for “Rainbow In The Dark” Below:

The tracklist is mostly based on RONNIE’s latest solo album 'Too Many Lies, Too Many Masters', which marks the first time that ROMERO has been involved with 100% of the songwriting on an album he sings on.

ROMERO also co-produced the album with Andy C., marking another first for ROMERO. While these 'firsts” certainly add to the excitement for the album, it is the songs that truly take center stage. ROMERO's voice is completely at home on this diverse, hard rockin' set which is certainly going to please any fan of his vocal style and his work with his other bands. 

Commenting on 'Live At Rock Imperium Festival', ROMERO states:

“I really wanted to have a live album out, to show everybody how much I enjoy playing music and the capabilities of the musicians I have by my side! It is also a step forward in my solo career. And no better place than my beloved Rock Imperium Festival in Spain! Thanks a lot to Frontiers Music, Manu Giménez, Andy C, and my band for making this possible! I hope that everyone will enjoy this performance!”

Pre-Order 'Live At Rock Imperium Festival' HERE

ROMERO's voice and prolific musical activity have brought him to the forefront of the hard rock/metal scene where he can be seen/heard with Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, The Michael Schenker Group, Lords of Black, The Ferrymen, Sunstorm, and the recently launched Elegant Weapons with Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner. With an impressive discography already under his belt, 'Too Many Lies, Too Many Masters' is arguably the crown jewel of ROMERO's recorded output thus far. 

'Too Many Lies, Too Many Masters' follows ROMERO's first two solo albums, both cover albums. 2023's 'Raised On Heavy Radio' saw ROMERO paying tribute to legendary artists from the metal world like Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Accept, Metallica, and more. It also featured special guests like Gus G. (Firewind, Ozzy Osbourne), Chris Caffery (Savatage, Spirits of Fire), Roland Grapow (Masterplan, Helloween), and more. 

ROMERO's first solo album, 'Raised On Radio', featured covers of classics that meant something special to ROMERO over the years and helped forge this talented singer's musical style. Songs by legendary acts like Survivor, Bad Company, Foreigner, Queen, Led Zeppelin, and more were given ROMERO's talented vocal treatment.

Line Up:

Ronnie Romero - Vocals

Jose Rubio - Guitars

Fran Gil Torres - Keyboards

Andy C. - Drums

Aurelian Dinca - Bass Guitar/Vocals

Bryce Leatherwood Announces Debut, Self-Titled Album, Out May 16

Mercury Nashville singer/songwriter Bryce Leatherwood built his country-music foundations while bumping along in an old pickup on his granddad’s farm, legends like George Jones, Merle Haggard and Conway Twitty crooned through fuzzy speakers, with their passion and conviction striking a chord. Now, the Woodstock, Georgia native is carrying those influences with him for his debut, self-titled album, available May 16, 2025. 
 
Pre-order Bryce Leatherwood HERE.
 
A mix of originals and expertly crafted outside cuts, Leatherwood lets his resonate vocal loose over 12 diverse tunes – centered on his rock solid country roots, but ranging from the pure-emotion of classic balladry to an expanding genre’s bleeding edge. Taking a hands-on approach with producer Will Bundy (Riley Green, Ella Langley), Leatherwood threads the needle between the timeless and trendy with surefooted ease.
 
“I’ve dreamt of making a record since the first day I picked up a guitar at 12 years old,” reflects Leatherwood. “I’ve spent the past two years developing this album, choosing each song with intention, creating the best introduction to who I am as an artist. I’m beyond proud of how it turned out, and can’t wait to share it with y’all.” 
 
Written by Leatherwood, Jeffrey East and Josh Kelley, “Shenandoah,” available today, echoes with breathtaking sonic beauty – and embodies total romantic devotion. Featuring rich vocal texture, the string-and-steel ballad matches its gentle tones with a songbird melody, as a truly majestic love unfolds. Listen below. 
 
“Growing up in North Georgia surrounded by the mountains, I was always inspired by the natural beauty around me. I really wanted to carry that inspiration into a song that reminded me of home while I’m in Nashville, and this was that song for me,” Leatherwood remarks of the sweeping romantic ballad. 

The season 22 winner of NBC’s hit TV show The Voice – Leatherwood signed a management deal with Morris Higham Management in December of 2022. After a landmark year in 2024 which included making his Opry debut, performing at CMA Fest and headlining his first tour, the Neon Does Tour, Leatherwood is just getting started. 
 
To follow along with updates and for more information, visit bryceleatherwood.com or follow along on Instagram HERE, Facebook HERE, X HERE or Tik Tok HERE.

About Bryce Leatherwood: 
Singer/songwriter Bryce Leatherwood aims to carry the torch of country music and continue the legacy of legends prior. Born and raised in Woodstock, GA, his passion for music began at an early age. Working on his grandfather’s farm every summer, Leatherwood was exposed to the classic country hits of George Jones, Merle Haggard and Conway Twitty. Soon thereafter he began picking up guitars and playing the traditional country music that inspires him today. Leatherwood’s music career began to blossom in Statesboro, GA, where he attended Georgia Southern University. During his time in Statesboro, Leatherwood played college venues and continued to grow his stage presence and his country music repertoire. While in college, Leatherwood formed his band and began playing all around the Southeast. Just weeks after graduating college, Bryce set his mind on a new task. In 2022, Leatherwood competed on the NBC hit television show The Voice and was crowned the Season 22 winner in December. Following his success, Leatherwood moved to Nashville where he has been songwriting and recording for his debut album on Mercury Records. A next generation traditionalist plugged firmly into the modern mainstream, with all the hallmarks of a rising star, Leatherwood concluded his first-ever headlining tour, The Neon Does Tour last year, took the Good Molecules Reverb Stage at CMA Fest and made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Sept. 14, 2024. His debut single, “Hung Up On You,” arrived at country radio as the most-added single, with 45 first week adds and is currently climbing the country chart. His self-titled debut album is set for release May 16, 2025. For the latest, visit bryceleatherwood.com.

Miranda Lambert Celebrates 20 Years of 'Kerosene' with First-Ever Vinyl Pressing + Vault Track "I Don't Love Here Anymore"

NPR’s “backbone of contemporary country music” Miranda Lambert is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her groundbreaking major label debut, Kerosene, with a special milestone release. Today, Lambert unveiled the never-before-released “I Don’t Love Here Anymore,” recorded during the original album sessions, while on April 25 fans can get Kerosene on vinyl for the first time ever. Listen to the new release below and pre-order the vinyl HERE.
 
“This album changed everything for me,” Lambert shares of the project named by New York Magazine as one of the year’s best debuts across all genres. “It’s where my journey truly began, and I can hardly believe it’s been 20 years. Releasing Kerosene on vinyl for the first time—and sharing a never-before-heard song from that era—feels incredibly special. I can’t wait for y’all to hear it and relive the fire that started it all!”
 
Kerosene debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart upon its March 15, 2005 release, eventually gaining Platinum certification by the RIAA and earning praise from AllMusic as a “thoroughly winning debut,” with Rolling Stone celebrating “the songs’ sustained excellence” when revisiting the project on its 10th anniversary a decade ago.
 
With the breakthrough album setting the stage for the storied career that followed – including her latest critically-acclaimed project, Postcards from Texas, marking the 10th consecutive Top 10 album for the most-awarded artist in Academy of Country Music history – Variety proclaims that “Whoever the entertainer of the year may be at any given recent point, Lambert has a strong claim on being country’s entertainer of the last two decades.”
 
Today’s anniversary release follows her latest single “Run,” which arrived at Country radio on Feb. 24 with 73 first-week adds. The three-time GRAMMY Award-winner is also set to join Morgan Wallen for several stadium dates of the upcoming I’m The Problem Tour, while headlining sets at festivals and one-off dates this summer including Two Step Inn, Country Stampede, Lakefront Music Fest, Field & Stream Music Fest and more.

About Miranda Lambert
Critically acclaimed groundbreaker/songwriter/superstar Miranda Lambert has defined her multi-faceted career as an artist, entertainer, entrepreneur, advocate and businesswoman with an unflinching quest for excellence, honesty and conviction. Her 10th solo studio album, Postcards from Texas, available everywhere now via Republic Records, continued her unbroken streak of 10 consecutive Top 10s on the Top Country Albums chart. The most-awarded artist in Academy of Country Music history, including their top honor for Entertainer of the Year, she has also won three GRAMMYs and 14 Country Music Association Awards. A TIME100 honoree and perennial best-of-the-year list maker at the New York Times, TIME, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Stereogum, People and more, NPR has called her “the most riveting country star of her generation.”
 
A multi-dimensional superstar, she’s earned seven No. 1 solo albums, 10 No. 1 hit radio singles, more than 80 prestigious awards and countless RIAA certifications; conquered Las Vegas with her twice-extended Velvet Rodeo residency; blurred genres with Leon Bridges, the B-52s, Loretta Lynn, Enrique Iglesias, Sheryl Crow and Elle King; and delivered her LGBTQ+ inclusive anthem “Y’all Means All” for Netflix’s “Queer Eye.” She’s taken those standards to become a New York Times bestselling author and the first female restaurateur on Lower Broadway with her Tex-Mex cantina Casa Rosa, while also expanding her creative reach with her Wanda June Home collection exclusive to Walmart and her Idyllwind clothing and boot line at Boot Barn. Her passion for rescue animals inspired the creation of her MuttNation Foundation, which has raised over $10 million since inception to promote adoption, support shelters across the country, advance spay & neuter and assist with the transport of animals during times of natural disaster.
 
MirandaLambert.com | Facebook | Twitter/X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

KOLBY COOPER’S FORTHCOMING ALBUM, LOVE YOU, GOODNIGHT, AVAILABLE APRIL 11

Kolby Cooper kicks off his latest album, Love You, Goodnight, with the electrifying smash hit "Under My Skin." Dubbed “Country music’s newest badass” (People), Cooper will release his fiercely passionate and soul-stirring album—a thrill ride where raw emotion meets rebel spirit and unfiltered storytelling, blending gritty authenticity with soaring melodies—on Friday, April 11. Pre-order, pre-save, or pre-add HERE, and listen to "Under My Skin," streaming now.

“It just feels like the most ‘me’ album we’ve ever made. I wasn’t even trying to force this sound out,” Cooper shares in anticipation. “I was just sitting down like ‘Let’s write something badass.’ I hope the lyrics carry the weight of how cool the production is, how hard we worked on it, and the countless hours I’ve spent making sure it told a story.”

Establishing himself as a skilled songwriter, Cooper has been recognized as “the current buzzworthy artist in country music” (People) and is making waves with his 2025 headlining tour. At just 25 years old, he has spent the past six years captivating audiences and is “well on his way to headlining shows at Yankee Stadium and Red Rocks Amphitheatre” (Sounds Like Nashville).

The brand-new album arrives as Cooper has amassed over 440 million on-demand streams, made his Grand Ole Opry debut and filled stages across the country, including dates opening for acts like Jelly Roll and Koe Wetzel. The Texas native and father of three presents Love You, Goodnight, featuring 14 incendiary anthems, each showcasing a different facet of life on the road. All written or co-written by Cooper, including a powerhouse duet with fellow Texan Danielle Bradbery, the country outlier has already given fans a sneak peak with previously released heart-pounding tracks like “Running Away,” “Hate You Too,” “Kill Me,” “Mama” and the poignant “Hello From The Road.” 

About Kolby Cooper:
As an old-school troubadour whose fans keep him on the road, Kolby Cooper has spent the last six years winning one crowd after another, and slowly building his rep as a rough-around-the-edges, country-rock phenom. But the infinite horizons of the highway come with a cost. Dialing up Love You, Goodnight in response – his second album for BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville with Combustion Music – the burning conflict within his late night calls home becomes a blowtorch of country grunge, as a modern-day outlaw shoots from the sonic hip, pushing his sound to its high-voltage limit. A 25-year-old husband and father of three, the Texas native grew up in the shotgun seat of his long-haul trucking family members, switching CDs between Waylon Jennings and Cross Canadian Ragweed – but also Nirvana, Blink-182, and more. Starting his own career at 18, the singer-songwriter soon reached exit velocity on his orbit through the Texan live circuit, and his grassroots fan base now drives sold-out national headline tours and supporting runs with Jelly Roll, Koe Wetzel and more. Meanwhile, Cooper has racked up over 440 million on-demand streams, a Grand Ole Opry debut, and industry-wide accolades, dubbed “country music’s newest badass” by People. Featuring 14 fuse-busting anthems – each one revealing a different aspect of life on the road, written or co-written by Cooper himself –  Love You, Goodnight arrives as a hard-hitting fusion of the Texas country tradition with 2000s-era alt-rock, metal and punk. This ferocious follow up to Cooper’s roughshod Red Dirt beginnings marks a heavy creative turn to match his heavy soul. More than sonic aggression, these tunes depict epic emotionality and an edgy, East-Texan rasp.

KEEP UP WITH KOLBY COOPER
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The Callous Daoboys Drops New Track "Lemon" + Official Music Video (via MNRK Heavy)

Atlanta, GA sextet The Callous Daoboys invite you further into The Museum Of Failure by unveiling a new exhibit with their latest track "Lemon" and the accompanying music video, taken from their hotly-anticipated forthcoming album 'I Don't Want to See You in Heaven' out on May 16 via MNRK Heavy. Prior to today, patrons were welcomed with the exciting first artifact "Two-Headed Trout/The Demon of Unreality Limping Like A Dog" and the cinematic official video. Today's reveal illuminates another facet of the band's signature ability to shapeshift boundaries between genres, blending the weight of heavy music with refreshing pop sensibility while preserving their raw, straight-from-the-heart authenticity. Speaking about "Lemon", vocalist Carson Pace commented:

“Some people are going to love this one, some people are going to hate this one, it’s just the reality of things. "Lemon" represents every frustration that you’ve ever had with a judgmental lover who wants you to give up on your art. "Lemon" says ‘fuck that, you didn’t love me anyway.'”

Witness "Lemon" by letting your eyes feast upon the official music video at the link below, examine the audio intricacies by streaming at the link here, and RSVP by pre-ordering 'I Don't Want to See You in Heaven' here.

Having wrapped up their EU/UK run with Silverstein, The Callous Daoboys will pick back up in North America on the 20 Years of All's Well That Ends Well tour on March 21, with Chiodos, Hawthorne Heights, and Emmure. Following several support dates alongside Beartooth in late April and May, the band will then bring the heat to the newly-announced Unhinged Festival on July 26 and on the Coheed and Cambria S.S. Neverender Cruise in November. Be sure to get your tickets here.

20 Years of All's Well That Ends Well with Chiodos, Hawthorne Heights + Emmure:

Mar 21 - Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Theater

Mar 22 - Chicago, IL @ Vic Theater

Mar 23 - Minneapolis, MN @ The Fillmore

Mar 25 - Denver, CO @ The Fillmore

Mar 26 - Salt Lake City @ The Depot

Mar 28 - Seattle, WA @ The Showbox

Mar 29 - Portland, OR @ Roseland

Mar 31 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern

Apr 1 - San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield

Apr 2 - San Diego, CA @ Soma

Apr 3 - Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

Apr 5 - San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center

Apr 6 - Houston, TX @ House Of Blues

Apr 7 - Dallas, TX @ House Of Blues

Apr 9 - St. Louis, MO @ Pageant

Apr 11 - Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works

Apr 12 - Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade

Apr 13 - Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore

Apr 15 - St. Pete, FL @ Jannus Landing

Apr 16 - Charleston, SC @ Charleston Music Hall

Apr 17 - Raleigh, NC @ Ritz

Apr 18 - Richmond, VA @ The National

Apr 20 - Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore

Apr 21 - New York, NY @ Webster Hall

Apr 22 - Worcester, MA @ Palladium

Apr 24 - Philadelphia, PA @ Franklin Music Hall

Apr 25 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Roxian Theater

Apr 26 - Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue

Beartooth Spring 2025 Dates:

Apr 30 - St. Louis, MO @ The Pagent*

May 15 - Mobile, AL @ Soul Kitch Music Hall*

May 16 - Dothan, AL @ The Plant*

Unhinged Festival:

Jul 26 - Denver, CO @ National Western Stockyards

Coheed And Camrbia S.S. Neverender Cruise:

Nov 8-13 - Miami, FL to Cozumel, MX

ABOUT THE CALLOUS DAOBOYS

A fearlessly free-spirited collective from Atlanta, Georgia, The Callous Daoboys revels in high-strung extremity, careening from furious metal cacophony to unabashed rock 'n roll and back again. The band Kerrang! hails as “gloriously chaotic” is like a Molotov cocktail combining extreme metal and nü-metal with life-affirming glee, as each song deliriously swerves across stylistic lines.

The Callous Daoboys are frontman Carson Pace, possessed like a young Mike Patton; fretboard-abusing guitarists Maddie Caffrey and Daniel Hodsdon; frantic bassist Jackie Buckalew; destructive drummer Matthew Hague; and spirited violinist Amber Christman. 

BLAKE SHELTON RETURNS WITH NEW ALBUM FOR RECREATIONAL USE ONLY AVAILABLE MAY 9

After nearly four years since his last studio album, Blake Shelton is back with For Recreational Use Only, his highly anticipated debut for BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, set for release May 9. The album is available now for pre-order/pre-add/pre-save here.

Leading the charge is the Top 10 hit single “Texas,” which has already resonated with fans and country radio alike, with People Magazine describing it as “rollicking.”

“It’s been a long time since we had a new album out, and I want to thank the songwriters and musicians who helped bring this record to life,” said Shelton. “Scott (Hendricks) and I have been working on this music for years, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with the fans.”

The song “Let Him In Anyway,” available today, offers another powerful preview of the album. The emotionally gripping ballad tells the story of a man hoping for divine forgiveness for a lost friend who was just shy of redemption.

“‘Let Him In Anyway’ is one of the most powerful songs I’ve ever had the chance to record,” said Shelton. “Hardy is a co-writer and a friend, and I’ve never heard a song like this before. When I first listened to it, I knew it was something special. It’s an honor to bring it to life, and I’m incredibly proud of the record we made.”

Spanning 12 tracks, For Recreational Use Only captures life’s highs and lows with authentic storytelling, raw emotion, and unforgettable melodies. The album also features special guest appearances from superstar Gwen Stefani, country legend John Anderson, and longtime friend and tourmate Craig Morgan.

Currently on the road with his sold-out Friends & Heroes Tour, Shelton is joined by an all-star lineup, including Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins, and Emily Ann Roberts. The tour is more than just a concert—it’s a magical, multigenerational celebration of country music, bringing together legendary voices and rising stars for an unforgettable night of music and storytelling.

With For Recreational Use Only, Blake Shelton reaffirms his place as one of country music’s most compelling voices, delivering a deeply personal and universally resonant album.

About Blake Shelton:

With 29 #1 singles, 52 million singles and 13 million albums sold and nearly 11 billion global streams, Blake Shelton has received numerous awards, including six ACMs, three AMAs, ten CMAs, 11 CMTs and six People’s Choice, among many others. Shelton just announced his new BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville album, For Recreational Use Only, set to drop May 9. The 12-track album, his first in nearly four years, features his Top 10 Wheelhouse Records single “Texas” with appearances throughout the project by Gwen Stefani, John Anderson and Craig Morgan. 

Shelton has a wide array of shows in 2025, he kickstarted the year with his “Live In Las Vegas” Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Currently on his Friends & Heroes Tour, the lineup features Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins and Emily Ann Roberts. The Grand Ole Opry member also remains focused on his Ole Red partnership with Ryman Hospitality, with locations currently in Tishomingo, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Orlando, and most recently, Las Vegas, with a stand-alone venue complete with a roof-top stage and bar on the Las Vegas strip. 

KEEP UP WITH BLAKE SHELTON

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X | FACEBOOK

Bury Tomorrow Share Video for New Single "Waiting"

Building on a huge touring run that saw the band visit their biggest ever venues across the UK, Europe, USA, Australia, and Japan, Bury Tomorrow look forward to an even bigger 2025, complete with their new album arriving in May. Following the release of dynamic and sonically splintering new singles ("Let Go," "What If I Burn" and "Villain Arc"), the band return to assuage even the most devout metallers with perhaps their heaviest offering to date.

Frontman Dani Winter-Bates explains the sentiment behind the track, sharing, "'Waiting' is about rebirth, the sense of going through the fire to emerge from the other side. Lyrically speaking, it delves into the lowest points of our lives where everything feels weirdly centered around yourself and in some way your misery, whether that's loss, self-loathing, or poor experiences."

He continues to share the sentiment behind releasing perhaps the records heaviest track by saying, "Musically, 'Waiting' is an opportunity to speed things up, make them more visceral more violent. Whilst there have been heavy singles released so far like 'Villain Arc,' this one will feel heavier to many. There's something slightly more modern about its sound and it's routed around rhythm and cadence, with a clear aim to hopefully move people as the song progresses."

Watch the video below:

Following the release of the track, the band gets ready to head stateside for a month-long, North American co-headliner with While She Sleeps. Due to a full run sellout, the band also add a date at Przym, Kingston with Banquet Records on May 17.

BURY TOMORROW ON TOUR:
WITH WHILE SHE SLEEPS + VENDED:
4/2 — Cleveland, OH — The Roxy
4/3 — Toronto, ONT — Danforth Music Hall
4/5 — Montreal, QC — Olympia
4/6 — Boston, MA — Paradise Rock Club
4/7 — New York, NY — Irving Plaza
4/9 — Columbus, OH — Newport Music Hall
4/10 — Chicago, IL — Concord Music Hall
4/11 — Milwaukee, WI — The Rave
4/12 — Minneapolis, MN — Skyway Theatre
4/13 — Lawrence, KS — The Granada
4/15 — Denver, CO — The Oriental Theatre
4/16 — Salt Lake City, UT — Soundwell
4/18 — Sacramento, CA — Ace Of Spades
4/19 — Berkley, CA — The UC Theatre
4/20 — Los Angeles, CA — The Regent Theatre
4/21 — Tucson, AZ — The Encore
4/23 — Oklahoma City, OK — Beer City Music Hall
4/24 — Dallas, TX — South Side Music Hall
4/25 — San Antonio, TX — Paper Tiger
4/26 — Houston, TX — Warehouse Live
4/28 — Orlando, FL — House of Blues
4/29 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
4/30 — Charlotte, NC — The Underground

Pre-Save/Pre-Order here.

For Bury Tomorrow, the last two years have been about trying to fill the space where they knew something was missing.

From the depths of uncertainty, through line-up changes and COVID-inspired roadblocks, the arrival of guitarist Ed Hartwell and keyboardist/vocalist Tom Prendergast and the creation of 2023's The Seventh Sun has allowed them to lay out a whole new path of possibilities that felt unavailable before. Now, with an invigorated belief and fresh outlook on what the band can encompass, they present Will You Haunt Me, With That Same Patience, their most fantastically visceral offering to date.

Crafted more intimately and intricately than ever before by internalising every aspect of the writing process, with Carl Brown [Sleep Token, Bullet For My Valentine, While She Sleeps] manning production duties for the first time, the result is a profoundly personal, extraordinarily expansive and punishingly grand display of cathartic craftsmanship.
 
Born from a shared sense of frustration in feeling an ever-shifting disconnect from the state of modern society, the band have created an earnest, heart-wrenching and definitive look at the overlapping effects of brutal self-sabotage, crippling anxiety, fierce despondency and the never-ending search for peace and clarity in a world so full of noise. It is a record about division as much as togetherness, an outpouring of personal devastation but a hopeful reminder that we are all navigating it together.
 
“To haunt is to revisit or recur persistently to the consciousness of someone or something,” explains guitarist, Kristan Dawson. "There’s beauty in that commitment somewhat. In a world full of distraction, discourse, instancy and demand, patience seems hard to attain. In patience there is peace, one thing society is short of. The title serves as a call of reflection, relying on the present moment, remembering what truly matters. I think the notion of patience being haunting is quite a contrast and that’s certainly reflective of the album musically.”

Within such deep sonic exploration and shared emotional understanding, and despite its bleak outlook on things, Will You Haunt Me With That Same Patience still strives to represent that lingering presence, that hope, that reminds us that this isn't the be-all and end-all of this existence. That things can change for the better, just like we can change for the better with it, and persevering through such separation will bring us back around eventually. We just have to weather the storm and trust in that feeling to pull us through.

To have allowed themselves the time and space to reach this point of comfort and confidence now feels like a starting point for everything that the band will do in the future. Expanding their empire in all corners of the world and delivering their biggest statement of intent to date is the beginning of a whole new chapter in the story of one of the most devastating and dedicated assets to British heavy music.

Francis Rossi of Status Quo Announces Collection of Previously Unreleased Demo Recordings "The Way We Were Vol. 1" Out 5/2

Francis Rossi of Status Quo will release The Way We Were Vol. 1 on May 2 via earMUSIC on CD, 2LP and Digital formats.

This 17-track album is an illuminating collection of previously unreleased demo recordings, all taken from his own personal archive, and written by the powerhouse songwriting team of Rossi and Bob Young. Five songs are previously unreleased, and have never before been heard outside the studio, whilst others went on to appear on a Status Quo or Francis Rossi album. These early versions capture the purity of the initial ideas and provide a fascinating window onto the creative process that they then underwent, as they evolved into a final version.

Rossi says, "People say you just can't recreate a demo; it's a real moment in time often with a relaxed feel that comes across in the song. A chord sequence or an idea can really shine. Collected on this album are demo recordings that I really like, or even that I now think are better than the recorded versions that people know already, and some alternate takes that really work in this format. Every so often, I would hear these versions and just really feel that they deserved to be heard, and I hope that the fans like them as much as I do."

There are songs featured that went on to appear on a series of Status Quoalbums: 2002's Heavy Traffic; 2005's The Party Ain’t Over Yet; 2004's XS All Areas; 2007's In Search Of The Fourth Chord; and Rossi's well-received second solo album of 2010, titled One Step At A Time.

A variety of styles, and indeed intentions, is on display here. What the songs all have in common is that they are presented in the manner in which they first emerged. There’s a purity and a simplicity to these recordings, and whilst some went on to become rowdy rabble rousers, having received the full classic Quo treatment on some well-loved albums, here they are in the first blush of youth.

Pre-order the album here.

Whilst all of these songs are indeed demo versions, they have been carefully and comprehensively laid down — these are much more than sketches. The Way We Were Vol. 1 lifts the lid on the creative process that has seen Francis Rossi, over an extraordinary career, create some great rock music.

Finnish Powerhouse Vocalists LAURENNE/LOUHIMO Unveil New Single "The Cradle" + Visualizer

LAURENNE/LOUHIMO - the collaboration between powerhouse Finnish vocalists Noora Louhimo (Battle Beast) and Netta Laurenne (Smackbound) – are pleased to unveil their new single “The Cradle”, taken from their sophomore album 'Falling Through Stars', set for release on April 18th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl. The sinlge is accompanied by a visualizer, available to view below. 

Talking about the new single, Noora Louhimo stated:

“'The Cradle' is a song I really love and relate to. I love the atmosphere and the melody of the song - melancholy and hopeful at the same time. I love how mine and Netta’s voices go so well together in the song, 'like cats in the cradle'.”

Netta Laurenne added:

“'The Cradle' is a lyrical and ethereally melancholic song with musical vibes from the ’80s. It tackles themes of self-doubt and depression. All of us are confronted with sorrow and hardship in this world, and sometimes, we lose sight of what’s good in our lives and fall into the pit of self-pity. I like how Noora and I bring very different tones to the vocals, each reflecting our own cradle of sorrow."

Watch the Visualizer for “The Cradle”

LAURENNE/LOUHIMO is one of the most exciting projects on Frontiers Music Srl and, in this second chapter, deliver a full force metal assaults with the power to blow you away. 

LAURENNE/LOUHIMO offers listeners a mix of heavy metal and hard rock tracks that explores the variety of the genre, while maintaining a straightforward, easy-to-enjoy appeal.

'Falling Through Stars' has shades of all eras of Rainbow here and there, as well as Judas Priest and many other 80s icons of the style. All of these influences are expertly filtered into Netta and Noora's way of composing music. 

The idea of a possible collaboration between Netta and Noora became a reality once the pandemic started and cleared out calendars for both artists. It felt like a perfect time to start the project and share all the things they have in common, from the same original town to similar idols and influences.

The main highlights of the album are, naturally, the vocal melodies created and shared by Netta Laurenne and Noora Louhimo.

'Falling Through Stars' has been once again produced at the Sonic Pump studio under the guidance of Nino Laurenne (who also played the guitars and contributed to the songwriting). The production is clear and powerful and gives the deserved value to the two stars here.

Songs like “Falling Through Stars”, “Damned”, “Loud And Clear,” or “Wait” are just a few of the highlights of a great album that will please all melodic metal fans!

Commenting on the album, LAURENNE states:

“'Falling Through Stars' is the second collaborative album with Noora, and it gave us the opportunity to step in and out of our comfort zones to meet halfway. We had a great time writing and recording the album, which I co-produced with my husband, Nino Laurenne. This album takes us on a journey through both the past and future of metal. We’ve aimed to incorporate styles, instruments, and emotions spanning from the ’70s to the present day. It’s a dynamic album that showcases both raw power and delicate moments, and we’re excited to share it with everyone.”

Pre-Order 'Falling Through Stars' HERE

LAURENNE/LOUHIMO are:

Netta Laurenne - Lead & Backing Vocals

Noora Louhimo - Lead & Backing Vocals

Sampo Haapaniemi - Drums

Pasi Heikkilä - Bass

Vili Itäpelto - Keyboards & Programming

Mikko Kosonen - Solo/Acoustic/Lead & Additional Guitars

Nino Laurenne - Rhythm & Solo Guitars

NITE Premiere 'Cult of the Serpent Sun'

After journeying to the stars on their full-length venture, NITE now faces the shadowy mythology that lays dormant beneath society's underbelly on Cult of the Serpent Sun. Each of the eight fiery battles on their new album test the Bay Area torchbearers mettle. But amidst its poisonous perils, the band emerge triumphant with white-hot, blackened heavy metal. 

Cult of the Serpent Sun comes out tomorrow, Friday, March 14, but you can hear all eight slithering tracks today by listening to the full album stream on the Season of Mist YouTube channel. 

Listen to Cult of the Serpent Sun Below:

Pre-order & Pre-save
https://orcd.co/nitecultoftheserpentsun

"Cult of the Serpent Sun is our most focused and fully realized album to date", NITE says. "We've struck a balance between melody and aggression, between sophistication and primal simplicity. Our third album captures the dual nature of NITE, the light within the darkness".

To properly initiate their following into Cult of the Serpent Sun, this summer, NITE are touring the East Coast with the dark and dangerous Savage Master. Raise your spike-gloved fists to the high-flying single "Crow (Fear the Night)" and other battle anthems from their road-ready new album.

NITE 2025 East Coast Tour with Savage Master
June 13 - Atlanta, GA @ Boggs Social & Supply [TICKETS]
June 14 - Raleigh, NC @ The Pour House [TICKETS]
June 15 - Washington, D.C. @ Pie Shop [TICKETS]
June 16 - Philadelphia, PA @ Milk Boy [TICKETS]
June 17 - Brooklyn, NY @ TV Eye [TICKETS]
June 19 - Cambridge, MA @ Middle East [TICKETS]
June 20 - Quebec City, QC @ La Source de la Martinière [TICKETS]
June 21 - Montreal, QC @ Piranha Bar [TICKETS]
June 22 - Toronto, ON @ Monarch Tavern [TICKETS]
June 24 - Cleveland, OH @ No Class [TICKETS]
June 25 - Chicago, IL @ Reggies / Music Joint [TICKETS]
June 26 - Detroit MI @ Sanctuary [TICKETS]
June 27 - Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle [TICKETS]
June 28 - Lexington, KY @ Green Lantern [TICKETS]

On Cult of the Serpent Sun, NITE guards the altar of blackened heavy metal with sharpened blades and axes raised.  

Lineup:
Van Labrakis: Guitar / Vocals
Scott Hoffman: Guitar
Avinash Mittur: Bass
Patrick Crawford: Drums

Recording studio
210 Studios San Francisco and The Hoagie Container

Production credits
Recorded by Van Labrakis
Produced by Van Labrakis and Nite
Mixed and mastered by Van Labrakis at 210 Studios San Francisco

Cover artist
Adam Vick

Available formats
Digital download
CD Digipack
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Black)
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Red with black splatters)
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Red and black marbled)

Pre-order & Pre-save
https://orcd.co/nitecultoftheserpentsun


Follow NITE
​​​​​https://music.apple.com/us/artist/nite/1499573755
https://nitemetal.bandcamp.com/
https://www.facebook.com/nitemetal
https://www.instagram.com/nitemetal
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6MjCnAA9RF0vy3j6QYyLG0
https://twitter.com/nitemetal
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo7-UhuJNohvsMB2DP05LAQ

BATTLE BEAST - RELEASE NEW SINGLE 'WINGS OF LIGHT (LIVE IN HELSINKI 2023)'

If you like intense, highly energetic live shows with perfect musicianship and songwriting, powerful vocals, a spectacular scenery, fire, force and fun, Finnish metal stars BATTLE BEASTare your perfect choice. Recorded and filmed at a sold-out Helsinki Ice Hall in January 2023, this live version of 'Wings Of Light' is stellar and whets your appetite for more shows and the upcoming first live album release on April 11th. The new live album Circus Of Doom - Live In Helsinki 2023 filmed & recorded at Helsinki Ice Hall in front of 3.000 ecstatic fans will be released on April 11th via Nuclear Blast Records. BATTLE BEAST´s european tour starts with a bang on October 17th with their biggest German headline show to date at Hamburg’s Inselpark Arena, the tour will keep the band on the road until mid-December. To complete the bill with melodic metal superiority, DOMINUM will join the tour as their special guest and Sweden’s rising power metal force MAJESTICA as their opening act. All tourdates are listed below. 

Bass player Eero Sipilä quotes excited: ”Wings of Light was always one of the highlights to perform on the Circus of Doom tour, and this recording from Helsinki really is really the ultimate way to experience the song. Crank it up and make sure your neighbours get to enjoy it too!”

Pre-Order Circus Of Doom - Live In Helsinki 2023 here: https://battlebeast.bfan.link/circus-of-doom-live
Watch the new live video for 'Wings Of Light (Live In Helsinki 2023)' below:
Stream 'Wings Of Light (Live In Helsinki 2023)' here: https://battlebeast.bfan.link/wings-of-light-live

About BATTLE BEAST:
Close to two decades into their career, with six records, 300M+ streams, four consecutive number #1 albums, and the strongest line-up the Finnish symphonic heavy metal group ever had, it’s about time BATTLE BEAST release a proper live album. Now, Circus Of Doom – Live in Helsinki 2023 finally comes out via Nuclear Blast Records on April 11th, 2025 as digital album and Limited Edition CD plus Blu-ray Digipak. 

Offering 117 minutes of playing time, 15 songs, a stunning 24-page booklet showing the band’s impressive stage and performance in a series of photos by Jaakko Manninen, and artwork by Jan Yrlund, Circus Of Doom – Live in Helsinki 2023 is a triumphant testimony to BATTLE BEAST’s one of a kind adventurous and monumental music. Recorded in the Helsinki Ice Hall on January 27, 2023, mixed by the band’s “keytarist” Janne Björkroth and mastered at the legendary Finnvox by Mika Jussila, this massive live package is a highlight for every dedicated fan out there and perfectly captures the ambitious dystopian carnival show BATTLE BEAST put up during their past touring cycle. And rest assured that Noora, Janne, Joona, Juuso, Eero and Pyry are already preparing an even more exciting new chapter for their fantastic tale that will hit you straight to the heart and take you beyond the burning skies.

BATTLE BEAST is:
Noora Louhimo | vocals
Eero Sipilä | bass
Joona Björkroth | guitars
Juuso Soinio | guitars
Janne Björkroth | keyboards
Pyry Vikki | drums

GENTLE GIANT ‘Playing The Fool: The Complete Live Experience’ 2-CD, 2-CD+Blu-ray, Triple Vinyl LP To Be Released May 2nd 2025

The brand new reimagined, mixed and mastered version of Gentle Giant’s classic 1977 live album ‘Playing The Fool’ is set to be released on May 2nd.

‘Playing The Fool: The Complete Live Experience’, will be released across several formats including double CD, triple vinyl, Blu-ray and digital download in 96/24 stereo, 5.1 surround sound and Dolby Atmos mixes.  
The album has been painstakingly mixed and mastered from the original source tapes by producer Dan Bornemark, who has worked extensively with the band on archival projects. 

You can purchase the album here:  https://gentlegiantuk.lnk.to/PTF

Containing new sleeve notes together with a plethora of photographs along with a track list that reflects the original running order of the setlist played on the tour including three previously unreleased songs and the between song banter from frontman Derek Shulman, this represents the most accurate account of Gentle Giant live at the very peak of their prowess.
Check out trailer for the album below:

Derek Shulman: “Effectively what you're hearing on this album is the whole show with all the bells and whistles included with me speaking to the audience and to the band just like it was on the night.”

Derek Shulman: “It's important to have a live album, which is live. There were no overdubs afterwards in the studio. So what you saw and heard is what you have on the album.”

ABOUT GENTLE GIANT

Gentle Giant was a British progressive rock band formed in 1970 in London by three brothers Derek, Ray and Phil Shulman along with Gary Green, Kerry Minnear and drummer Martin Smith who was latterly replaced by John “Pugwash” Weathers in 1972. 

The group was renowned for its complex and eclectic musical style, blending elements of rock, jazz, classical, folk and medieval music.  The band played a diverse array of instruments between them and their intricate arrangements and exquisite vocal harmonies gave them their own unique, instantly identifiable sound.

Gentle Giant released a series of highly regarded albums including ‘Acquiring the Taste’ (1971), ‘In a Glass House’ (1973), and ‘The Power and the Glory’ (1974) across which they pushed their musical boundaries to the limit. Their live album ‘Playing The Fool’ (1977) remains a testament to their stunning live shows.

In 1980 Gentle Giant called it a day and have refused numerous calls to reform since then, perhaps this is why their reputation remains intact to this day.  Wide Scale chart success may have eluded them but their fiercely loyal fanbase followed them right through their career and beyond. Their legacy has remained undiminished within the Progressive Rock world being major influences on Porcupine Tree`s Steven Wilson, Neal Morse of Spock's Beard, Michael Sadler of Saga and Opeth`s Mikael Akerfeldt, who cites ‘Acquiring The Taste’ as one of his favourite albums.

Derek Shulman: “We were a rock and roll band that played interesting music and we wanted to have fun for ourselves and have the audience go out with a smile on their faces.”
 

Official Website: www.gentlegiantband.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gentlegiantband/

NEW SINGLE “FxCK YOU” STREAMING NOW FROM RAVEN BLACK’s NEWEST ALBUM ”BLACK SONATA" DUE OUT SEPTEMBER 12

With the first single release on 3.13.25 titled, “FxCK YOU”, we wanted to just start out with the “no rules, no expectations” vibe to this album. We have never had explicit lyrics in any of our music in the past 10 years. It’s past due. Being authentic is more important to us than what is expected in today’s trends of what people may think metal music should be. We think our music is a Sonata.

Our Black Sonata.

CLICK TO PREORDER HERE "BLACK SONATA"

A collection of RAVEN BLACK'S darker metal carnival. Familiar but unexpected new oddities find themselves thrown into the metal madness with dark, fun, quirky, weird, creepy and disturbing chaos. Sing, scream, dance, cry, pit or all of it! Exactly what was intended. Music that moves you into another world. This world, in the 13th Hour, of

RAVEN BLACK. 

Raven shares, “when you’re faced with loss, grief, sadness and anger all at the same time, it is hard to focus on anything in your life. The pause button is necessary. I paused for a moment to do what I needed to do for my own physical and mental health. I found myself. All of me, all the pieces, even the hidden ones”.

This album is so special. With my husband, Ryan “Muppet” Cox, and friend, Maezi Kacey, and working with Ulrich Wild, at WURMgroup, this has become our best work since we started in 2011.

No more rules.

Our Art is expressed. 

RAVEN BLACK is an American metal band originally founded in Los Angeles, California. Hailing as a “Dark Metal Carnival” The band has released 3 albums since 2016 and toured rigorously since, supporting acts such as Cradle of Filth, DevilDriver, Jinjer, Mushroomhead and Static-X. The band previously managed by The Oracle, (Dez Fafara of Coal Chamber and DevilDriver) and has worked exclusively with their producer Ulrich Wild (Grammy -nominated with works of Static-X, White Zombie, Deftones). 

STREAM NOW ON:

Spotify

Apple Music

Deezer

Austin electronic artist Claude9 shares Jarre-esque 'The Shadow', previewing debut album

Austin-based electronic artist Claude9 will soon be releasing his debut album 'Chords of Love' album, out March 28 via indie imprint New Human Music. As part of this synth-based journey, he now shares another gem - 'The Shadow', a Jean-Michel Jarre-eque slice of futuristic wonderment that showcases this relaxing nine-track record.

This new offering arrives on the heels of 'Clouds So Low', a soulful track with chilled feel-good vibes, tastefully blends Enoesque ambient music and downtempo trip-hop. Encapsulating the dreamy, rhythmic energy that defines much of the album Claude9 also offers a sneak-peek of the full album via a mini-live set, shared on video.

Weaving together ambient and downtempo electronica, 'Chords of Love' offers a seamless listening experience with six extended tracks and three shorter interlude pieces that flow effortlessly into one another, creating the feeling of one continuous work. This diverse sonic palette brings in everything from cicada field recordings to lush pads, drones, and a mix of real and synthesized vocals.

With the simple yet profound mantra of “Slow down, relax, and listen”, this is a gateway to a relaxed and healing journey. At the same time, it doesn’t shy away from moments of tension or layers of social commentary, adding depth to its soothing exterior. Two tracks are also graced by the unmistakable talent of Jorja Chalmers (Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry, Italians Do It Better), whose saxophone elevates the intensity and emotional resonance of this project.

Claude9 has been involved in the Austin music scene for several decades, both as a live performer and recording artist. As a keyboard player and singer, he has worked with Reggae acts Pressure, the Killer Bees, and Raggamassive, cutting his teeth to become a sought-after keyboard player. From there, he joined forces with hiphop-funk act Afrofreque, Supercreeps and Hail Marley.

Emerging in the late 90s as one of Austin's first electronic producers, Claude9 was involved in several well-received House music collaborations in the early 2000s. His background as a live musician brought authenticity to the dub and funk elements in his electronic compositions and, more recently, to his
collaboration with Noëlle Hampton (the Belle Sounds) and Ken Christensen (East Coast Boogiemen) in synth pop band XANIMAL.

As a producer at Claude9 Studios, Claude continues to produce and record internationally recognized music in the House and Downtempo genres, while still pushing limits and being an influential member of the ever changing Austin music community.

'The Shadow' is available exclusively via Bandcamp, where 'Clouds So Low' can also be found - it is also available from fine music platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify. Out March 28, the 'Chords of Love' album is now available for pre-order - it will be released digitally and on vinyl.  That same evening, Claude9 will hold his record release party at Stargazer Bar in Austin.

ALBUM CREDITS
Claude9 - Keyboards, real and synthesized vocals, melodica, harmonica
Jorja Chalmers - saxophone on tracks 1 and 9
Recorded at Claude9 Studios (Austin, TX)
Initial session for track 4 at ESH INSTITUTE, Lockhart Tx.
Production assistance by Alec ESH
Mixed and mastered by Charles “Chicky” Reeves at Sublime
Studios London, UK
Album cover design by Fumihito Sugawara / Fumanstudios
Released by New Human Music
Distributed by Xelon Distribution
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR


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WARBRINGER Unveil Ghoulish Third Single "Through A Glass, Darkly" | New Album "Wrath And Ruin" Out This Friday, 3/14

Modern thrash titans WARBRINGER are preparing to unleash their highly anticipated new album Wrath And Ruin, out this Friday, March 14 via Napalm Records. Today, they unlock the tomb containing their ghoulish third single "Through A Glass, Darkly," emerging alongside a shell-shocked official music video.

The mini epic "Through A Glass, Darkly," was inspired by a poem from WWII general George Patton, insisting that he was the reincarnation of an eternal warrior spirit who has fought and died on countless battlefields throughout history. Conjuring the undead with gothic guitar stylings, and mid-paced, brooding tension, WARBRINGER crafts an atmosphere so tangible, you'll be coughing from the dust off the crypt.

About the single, frontman John Kevill says, "Here's the third single from Wrath and Ruin, the epic 'Through a Glass, Darkly.' We chose this one as a single to showcase the range and breadth of this album, offering something totally different from the first two singles here. This one has an epic and dark, mystical quality to it, as well as a real fist-raising energy. The song is about an eternally reincarnating warrior, who recounts his struggles and pains across the battlefields of time. This is based on a poem by the WW2 general George Patton, and apparently the man truly believed himself to be the reincarnation of this eternal warrior." 

He continues, "To me, this idea had a lot of power and resonance, and works as a powerful metaphor for the ongoing human struggle we all face. I also thought his poem had some really great lines, some of which are incorporated here. The track, penned by Carlos Cruz, was an attempt to get the epic feel we had on songs like 'Defiance of Fate’ and ‘When the Guns Fell Silent’ into a shorter runtime package, a 'pocket epic,' if you will. I particularly love the soulful solo by Adam Carroll here, and I think the end passage is one of the finest vocal moments on the record. Here's a song to look at the sky to and stoically contemplate time and legacy... we hope you all enjoy 'Through a Glass, Darkly' and the rest of Wrath and Ruin.”

Check Out the Official Video for "Through A Glass, Darkly" below:

Wrath And Ruin's destructive opening duo of "The Sword And The Cross" and "A Better World" quickly kick the gates of cataclysm open with broodingly dark guitar work and virtuosic precision. Frontman John Kevill's passionate proclamations are as potent as ever, mocking those who scoffed at clear harbingers of societal collapse with their misguided optimism. "Neuromancer" rides low and steady with blast master Carlos Cruz putting some serious stank on an irresistible battle vest fist pumper. "The Jackhammer" sees the band explode into a frenzy with chaotic riffage and ear splitting pinch dives. "Through A Glass, Darkly" indulges in deliciously gothic chord work and melodic leads embellishing Kevill’s already hellish vocal fry. "Strike From The Sky" is trademark thrash excellence quickly followed by the atmospheric, true cult epic "Cage Of Air," with its tensely ornate dueling guitars on full display. Album closer "The Last Of My Kind" continues this dark gothic path with syncopated octave runs dancing around tightly dueling melodeath riffage.Wrath And Ruin sees WARBRINGER indulging in the darker elements of their sound, for an uncompromising and unflinching exploration of life’s most bitter pills.

WARBRINGER also recently announced a North American co-headline tour with death metal stalwarts Allegaeon, as well as a European Tour supporting Decapitated and Cryptopsy, in addition to select festival appearances and German dates supporting Kreator.

WARBRINGER ON TOUR:
North American Co-headline w/ Allegaeon
The Vortex of Violence
3/18 — San Diego, CA — Brick by Brick
3/19 — Phoenix, AZ — Last Exit Live
3/20 — Albuquerque, NM — Launchpad
3/21 — Oklahoma City, OK — 89th Street Collective
3/22 — Haltom City, TX — Haltom Theater
3/23 — Austin, TX — Come and Take it Live
3/24 — Corpus Christi, TX — House of Rock
3/26 — Orlando, FL — Conduit
3/27 — Jacksonville, NC — Hooligan's
3/28 — Bensalem, PA — Broken Goblet
3/29 — Brooklyn, NY — Woodshop
3/30 — Montreal, QC — Foufounes Electriques
3/31 — Toronto, ON — The Garrison
4/1 — Detroit, MI — The Sanctuary
4/2 — Chicago, IL — Reggies
4/3 — Lawrence, KS — The Bottleneck
4/4 — Lincoln, NE — Bourbon Theater
4/5 — Denver, CO — HQ
4/6 — Salt Lake City, UT — Metro Music Hall
4/8 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon
4/9 — Vancouver, BC — Rickshaw Theatre
4/10 — Portland, OR — Hawthorne Theater
4/11 — San Francisco, CA — DNA Lounge
4/12 — Los Angeles, CA — Teragram Ballroom

WARBRINGER IS:
John Kevill — Vocals
Adam Carroll — Guitar
Carlos Cruz — Drums
Chase Becker — Guitar
Chase Bryant — Bass