V.B.O. Expose The Darker Side Of Modern Society In The New Single "Monsters!"

VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) look beyond the glamour and allure of the neon-lights in the new single release, "Monsters!". Beneath the luxury façade, something sinister awaits in V.B.O.'s fusion of retro-futuristic synths and heavy music. Comprised of Francesco Cavalieri (WIND ROSE) and Simone Giusti, a wizard of electronics and groove-laden basslines, Italy's V.B.O. is preparing to unveil the forthcoming full length, Vice Business Only, on July 24, 2026, via Reigning Phoenix Music.

Pre-order Vice Business Only HERE!

"'Monsters' dives into the darker side of modern society, exposing the vices we often choose to ignore or disguise." Reveals frontman Francesco Cavalieri. "In true VBO style, the video transforms these flaws into literal monsters, turning hidden truths into striking visual metaphors. Beneath the neon lights and cinematic aesthetic lies a deeper message; like a reflection of a world that often masks its imperfections behind glamour. Too excessive? No. It’s VBO baby."

V.B.O.'s characteristic catchy hooks and energized electronics are infused with a shadowy touch in "Monsters!". Explosive beats see "Monsters!" spark into life, before heavy rhythmic stabs and melodic guitar riffs emerge beneath an array of warm analogue synth textures. The memorable chorus lyric "we are monsters" injects an anthemic feel while the track's breakdown passage takes a darker turn. 

Filmed at Vacuum Club, Milan, V.B.O. lift the veil on the bloodthirsty monsters that hide in plain sight across the electric urban nightlife. 

Vice Business Only was recorded at LSD-Studios (Lübeck, Germany), produced, mixed and mastered by Lasse Lammert. Photography is by Onofrio Petronella and Tommaso Barletta, with the album cover artwork design by V.B.O. 

About V.B.O.:

VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) is a musical project founded in 2023 by Francesco Cavalieri, best known as the frontman of the power metal band WIND ROSE, together with electronic music producer Simone Giusti. The project marks a bold artistic shift for Cavalieri, moving from fantasy-driven metal into a modern, urban, and cinematic soundscape.

The band’s lineup is completed by Claudio Falconcini (guitar), Federico Meranda (keyboards), and Angelo Carmignani (drums), combining diverse musical backgrounds into a cohesive identity.

V.B.O. blends retro-futuristic synthwave with rock and metal, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and electrifyingly modern. Inspired by Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Daft Punk, and Justice, the band combines analog-style synths, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals into a polished, immersive experience.

At the core of V.B.O. lies a neon-drenched vision of excess, elegance, and cinematic nightlife—echoing the glamour and danger of cities like Miami. Themes of power, luxury, passion, and excess define the project, presenting the band almost as a stylized gang where image and attitude are as essential as the music.

The band made its live debut in January 2026 at the 70000 Tons of Metal festival in the United States, stepping onto one of the world’s most recognized international stages.

Since its inception, V.B.O. has positioned itself as a distinctive force in contemporary music, merging rock and metal energy with electronic groove and texture. More than a band, Vice Business Only delivers a complete audiovisual experience—a high-stakes journey through a retro-futuristic universe where the rhythm never slows and the attitude is larger than life.

V.B.O. Is:

Francesco Cavalieri - Vocals
Simone Giusti - Bass
Claudio Falconcini - Guitar
Federico Meranda - Keys
Angelo Carmignani - Drums


Connect With V.B.O.:

Website: https://www.vbomusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vicebusinessonly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vbomusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vbomusic

BLACK SITES Present New Single "Giving Up The Ghost"

Chicago's heavy ensemble BLACK SITES present their next single release, "Giving Up The Ghost". Written about losing one's belief in a higher power, the new track arrives ahead of the band's forthcoming full length, For Eternity, set to release independently on July 17, 2026.

On the musical influences behind "Giving Up The Ghost", BLACK SITES founder Mark Sugar shares, "I was very much trying to channel Tony Iommi and Jimmy Page on this track. The intro is total Iommi worship, specifically what he did on 'Die Young'. The guitar overdubs at the end were an idea borrowed from Depeche Mode’s 'Policy of Truth'." 

Across the album's track list, BLACK SITES deliver impactful catchy choruses and lyrical hooks alongside a powerful riff-driven sound. "Giving Up The Ghost" showcases this stylistic direction with a highly emotive element that manifests through touches of orchestral strings and somber guitar leads. 

For Eternity was produced by Mark Sugar & Chris Black, recorded at I Can’t Believe It’s Not Mace Street Studios, with mixing and mastering by Dan Swano. Drums on For Eternity were recorded by Vladimir Ružičić at Kebac Recording Studio.

About BLACK SITES:
Based out of Chicago, IL, USA, BLACK SITES was founded in 2016, initially as a studio project, by vocalist and guitarist Mark Sugar. Sugar was later joined by members John Picillo (bass), Ryan Bruchert (guitar) and Chris Avgerin (drums). BLACK SITES combines old school metal with guitar harmonies, melodic/clean vocals and progressive elements, primarily drawing inspiration from the likes of VOIVOD, BLACK SABBATH, and KING’S X.

BLACK SITES released their debut In Monochrome in 2017 (Mascot/Provogue Records), followed by Exile in 2019. 2021 saw the release of Untrue that was produced by Sanford Parker and awarded Record Of the Year by Dr. A.N. Grier at AngryMetalGuy.com. BLACK SITES ventured to The Promised Land? with their 2024 full-length that featured Tom Draper. (Ex-CARCASS/SPIRIT ADRIFT) on the track "Chasing Eternity".

Now, in 2026, Mark Sugar is joined by new members Jose Salazar (bass), Lee Smith (guitar) and Chris Black (drums). The forthcoming album For Eternity is set to release independently on July 17, 2026.

BLACK SITES Is:
Mark Sugar (vocals, guitar)
Jose Salazar (bass)
Lee Smith (guitar)
Chris Black (drums)

Connect With BLACK SITES:
Bandcamp: https://blacksites.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blacksites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacksitesmusic
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blacksitesmusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blacksites
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0yY6r4UHQDv4BUOr5bKu1o

Corey Kent's 'Heartland Rock and Roll' Album Arrives Sept. 25; New Track "Cigarette Burns" Out Now

Multi-platinum Sony Music Nashville recording artist Corey Kent today announced his new album Heartland Rock and Roll will arrive Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. Marking a defining moment in Kent’s career, the 16-track project finds the Oklahoma native fully embracing the gritty, genre-blurring sound he’s spent years carving out – one that fuses country, rock and soul into what he calls Heartland Rock and Roll.

“Heartland Rock and Roll is my third major label album, and it’s really the first time I’ve been able to finally name the sound I’ve been working towards my entire career,” shared Kent. “These songs sound like where I’m from. The lyrics span from nostalgia, to honest regrets and gratitude for the simple things I value most in life. From top to bottom, this is me. Every artist wants to leave their mark in music… a way to say, ‘I was here and I did it my way.’ This feels like mine. This is heartland rock and roll.”

Alongside the album announcement, Kent released his newest song “Cigarette Burns,” available everywhere now. The smoldering new track follows recent releases “Rocky Mountain Low” featuring Koe Wetzel, viral fan-favorite “Empty Words” and the stripped-down “Wannabe,” continuing to give listeners a taste of Kent’s next chapter. Listen to “Cigarette Burns” Below and pre-save Heartland Rock and Roll HERE. 

Written by Zach John King, Ben Stennis, Lauren Hungate and Jameson Rodgers, the new track pairs Kent’s smoky vocal with a unique melodic haze as he reignites the feeling of a snuffed out love. A slow-burning ballad with a mellow flavor all its own, “Cigarette Burns” is rich, reflective and rolled up in a no-filter blend of premium grade desire, savoring the sting of a love that was bad for his health, but ultimately hurt so good.

“This song has such an infectious pulse and a perspective I’ve never heard before, which is why I gravitated towards it. One of my favorite records ever is Come Around Sundown by Kings of Leon,” Kent said. “There’s a few songs on there that have a very country western feel to them while keeping all of the laid back, beach town rock elements. This song feels like it would fit right into that record which is why I think I love it so much. I can’t wait for people to hear this because to me it feels like a fresh soundscape in country music. Timeless, yet new.”

“If you’re an artist, you hope to have that record – the one that when people think about you, they think about that record,” shared Kent. “For the first time in my career, I feel like I do.”

Infusing Oklahoma roots with the untamed energy of a rebel rocker, Kent has built his career on doing things his own way. From dancehalls and dive bars in Bixby, Oklahoma to earning two No. 1 singles at Country radio, over 1 billion career streams and multiple RIAA certifications, Kent’s rise has been steady, hard-earned and fueled by conviction. But with Heartland Rock and Roll, he leans fully into the differences that once made him feel like an outsider.

“I’ve been fighting my differences for so long, but now it’s like, ‘Let’s just use those,’” Kent explains. “I’m not trying to be anybody else. Bigger fades, ‘better’ lasts.”

Produced primarily by Austin Goodloe, with additional production from Jon Randall and Chris Farren, Heartland Rock and Roll captures golden-hour nostalgia, rugged honesty and the peace that comes with staying true to yourself. Across 16 tracks, Kent delivers vivid small-town soundtracks steeped in warm distortion, raspy country soul and heartland rock grit.

Fans first got a glimpse into the album’s sonic direction with “Rocky Mountain Low (feat. Koe Wetzel),” which is Top 10 on the chart and continues its climb at Country radio, followed by “Empty Words,” which was released early due to fan demand with more than 20 million social media views. Most recently, “Wannabe” showcased the project’s stripped-back emotional core with Kent describing the song as a “cowboy campfire ballad” about finding fulfillment in life’s simplest moments.

Now, “Cigarette Burns” adds another layer to the album’s emotional depth, delivering a smoky, slow-burning anthem about a love that lingers long after it’s gone.

The forthcoming album follows Kent’s breakout projects Blacktop and Black Bandana, which established the singer-songwriter as one of country music’s most compelling and unconventional rising voices. To date, Kent has earned Platinum certification for “Something’s Gonna Kill Me,” Gold certification for “This Heart” and a Triple-Platinum certification for his No. 1 breakthrough hit “Wild As Her.”

Next week, Kent is set to bring his high-energy live show to Nashville, performing across three stages on Thursday, June 4: Billboard Country Live at Category 10, Gibson Garagefest Sony Nashville Takeover at Gibson Garage Nashville and Spotify House at Ole Red Nashville.

Rolling Stone has praised Kent for giving “the region’s signature sound a shot of mainstream sensibility,” while CMT and the Opry NextStage program have recognized him as an artist to watch. He has also toured alongside Morgan Wallen, Jason Aldean, Parker McCollum, Jon Pardi and Koe Wetzel.

For the latest news and information about Corey Kent, visit coreykentofficial.com.

SINNER Release First Single "Wait" From Final Studio Album Boom Bang Goodbye

German hard rock legend SINNER present the energized new single "Wait" alongside a music video. This is the first single to land from the band's forthcoming, and final, full-length studio offering, Boom Bang Goodbye. The album will arrive on July 31, 2026, via RPM. For over four decades SINNER have delivered massive hooks, powerful guitars, emotional depth and pure hard rock energy with an uplifting sound, and "Wait" is no different. 

On the new single "Wait", Mat Sinner shares:
“For the first song from the album, I wanted a positive good-time track that simply puts people in a good mood. The political madness we’re living through doesn’t need another depressing soundtrack. ‘Wait’ is also a very representative song for the entire album. Working with Michael Bormann again after 10 years immediately clicked — the chemistry was there right away. And just like on the whole album, there’s an unbelievably great performance from drummer Moritz Müller and my partner Alex Scholpp, plus the absolutely brilliant mix by my friend Jacob Hansen. Mat was 100% happy!”

The video for "Wait" also captures the song’s positive energy, welcoming the summer with ease, optimism and feel-good vibes.

With Boom Bang Goodbye, SINNER enter the final chapter of an extraordinary career. Since 1982, the band led by Mat Sinner has been one of the most consistent forces in the German hard rock and metal scene. Following 19 studio albums, international tours and most recently the successful album Brotherhood, the band is set to end on a high note.

For this final statement, Mat Sinner has once again gathered an epic lineup of longtime companions and high-profile guests. Alex Scholpp (guitar) and Moritz Müller (drums) provide the album’s powerful foundation, joined by Jim Müller of KISSIN’ DYNAMITE, Lisa Müller, and former SINNER bandmate Mathias Dieth, who performed on the influential early albums Comin’ Out Fighting and Dangerous Charm. Another renowned guitarist on board is Magnus Karlsson — closely connected to Mat Sinner through the PRIMAL FEAR camp — who contributes vocals on Boom Bang Goodbye.

All-star appearances on Boom Bang Goodbye continue with vocal performances from Ronnie Romero (RAINBOW), Michael Bormann, Michael Sadler (SAGA), Björn Strid (SOILWORK), Erik Mårtensson (ECLIPSE), Renan Zonta and Sascha Krebs. Each guest brings their own distinctive touch to the track list, making the album an impressive gathering of international hard rock and metal greats.

Mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios in Denmark, the album combines modern heaviness with classic SINNER DNA. Every song bears the unmistakable signature of Mat Sinner as a musician, songwriter and personality who has helped shape the European metal scene for decades.
Boom Bang Goodbye will be released on July 31, 2026. The first single, "Wait", is available now on all platforms.

“Don’t wait – pre-order, press play, repeat.”

Listen to "Wait":
SINNER – WAIT
 
Album Preorder:
Boom Bang Goodbye Pre-Order

Erdve Premiere Crushing New Album 'Epigrama'

Since emerging from Lithuania in 2016, Erdve have experimented with heavy music’s imposing framework. The expiermental metallic hardcore band’s debut established a heavy foundation, while their follow-up chiseled away with dramatic intensity. Now, they are pushing their vision to more crushing extremes on their new album Epigrama.

Epigrama comes out tomorrow, Friday, May 29, 2026 on Season of Mist but you can hear all eight devastating tracks today by listening to the full album stream below:

Pre-order & pre-save

https://orcd.co/erdveepigrama

Available Formats:
CD Digipak

Digital Download

12” Vinyl Gatefold — Black

12” Coloured Vinyl Gatefold — Silver, Black & White Marbled

Erdve have earned a reputation for unconventional experiments. The band have performed in Vilnius’ St. John’s Church and the historic Lukiškės Prison. Metal Injection hailed their debut Vaitojimas as an ”uncompromising patchwork of hardcore punk and sludge metal”. In reviewing follow-up Savigaila, Nine Circles marveled at how “all that harshness that is at once apparent settles out and mellows into something that is quite beautiful and begs repeated listens”.    

Now, with Epigrama, Erdve have redefined their hardened sludgy metallic experiment into their most conceptually focused and structurally deliberate album. The band confront grief, guilt and stagnation as structural forces rather than passing emotions. Every decision, or absence of decision, is treated as moral debt. From the suffocating grief of lead single “Nyra”, the all-consuming descent of “Ydos” to the madness of the title track and the irreversible acceptance of closer “Svertas,” the record unfolds as a journey from doubt to clarity through collapse. A moment isn’t captured. A process is endured.

Line-up:

Vaidotas Darulis — Vocals, Guitars

Adomas Varnelis — Guitar

Valdas Voveraitis — Drums

Karolis Urbanavičius — Bass

Production Credits:

Self-produced by Vaidotas Darulis & Adomas Varnelis.
Mixed Vaidotas Darulis & Adomas Varnelis.
Mastered by Vaidotas Darulis.

Cover Art:

Photography by Vaidotas Darulis.

Designed by Vaidotas Darulis,

Vainius Česnauskas (https://www.instagram.com/vainius.art/),

Marija Česnauskienė-Dvarionaitė (https://www.instagram.com/maryces.art/).

Pre-order & pre-save

https://orcd.co/erdveepigrama

Available Formats:
CD Digipak

Digital Download

12” Vinyl Gatefold — Black

12” Coloured Vinyl Gatefold — Silver, Black & White Marbled

Follow Erdve:
Bandcamp: https://erdvesom.bandcamp.com/album/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_erdve_/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erdve

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7uctedT9WR5dzqjAOx3jKN

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/erdve/1299788970

Tidal: https://tidal.com/artist/9229661

Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/13602259

Brazilian Rockers ELECTRIC MOB Share New Live Version of "Sun Is Falling" + Official Video

Today, Brazilian rock trio ELECTRIC MOB are proud to share the new live version of "Sun Is Falling," taken from the upcoming digital deluxe edition of their sophomore album '2 Make U Cry & Dance,' set for release on July 10th via Frontiers Music Srl. The digital deluxe edition will feature the full studio release alongside six live tracks performed at Capital Moto Week 2024.

On the live version of "Sun Is Falling," the band shares:

" 'Sun Is Falling' is our rage against modern society and its endless ways to bleed the world dry. No matter the cost, or the lives involved. It’s all about profit and selfishness.

This Live version stays true to the grit and anger we felt when we wrote it, full of energy and big performances."

Watch the Live Performance Video for "Sun Is Falling" Below:

Without hiding their classic rock influences and driven by a modern, restless vision, ELECTRIC MOB are unafraid to break away from clichés and push rock fans beyond their comfort zone.

Hailing from Curitiba, Brazil, the band burst onto the scene like a mad dog on the loose with their debut album 'DISCHARGE' (2020). Raw, unapologetic, and emotionally charged, the record broke through borders, surprising international audiences and carving out space on rock radio stations throughout the United States and Europe.

In January 2023, the band released their second album, '2 MAKE U CRY & DANCE,' earning positive reviews across multiple countries. This was followed by a Brazilian headlining tour through 12 cities in six different states. The momentum continued as ELECTRIC MOB joined forces with Project 46 for a nationwide run that expanded into Brazil’s Northeast.

Their live streak carried into 2024 and 2025 with a strong presence at major festivals, including Summer Breeze Brasil, now known as Bangers Open Air, where Billboard Brasil cited the band as “one of the most praised performances of the event.” Additional highlights include a main stage appearance at Capital Moto Week, which resulted in the live recording 'Live @ Capital Moto Week,' and performances at Porão do Rock (DF), Mundial Rock (SC), SBO Rock Fest (SP), and HackTown (MG).

On the upcoming deluxe release, vocalist Renan Zonta comments:

"We’re thrilled to release this super special edition of something we’re very proud of. The DLX version of our second album '2 Make U Cry & Dance' comes with kickass live and raw cuts, and it’s here to re-insure the power inside this beautiful cake. Give it an extra spin while we’re cooking a new one ⚡️😈"

Guitarist Ben Hur adds:

"We’ve always considered ourselves a band forged on stage. That’s where everything truly comes to life. In this deluxe release of our second album, we’re capturing a part of that energy and sharing it with fans who haven’t yet had the chance to experience it with us in person."

Pre-Save the '2 Make U Cry & Dance' Digital Deluxe Edition HERE

ELECTRIC MOB are:

Renan Zonta - Vocals

Ben Hur Auwarter - Guitar

Mateus Cestaro - Drums

Siamese Drop New Single "Sense" — LISTEN // Album Out 6/26

Modern metal act Siamese have just revealed their latest single, "sense." The track is taken from the band's upcoming full-length album, dissolution, which arrives on June 26 via Long Branch Records.

"Sense is a song where the truth becomes a liability," comments singer Mirza Radonjica. "There's a constant pressure for the artist to self-censor in order to protect its business but at the cost of losing all of authenticity. Artists all over the world are being bent out of shape to fit into a lens that fits a collective narrative that’s acceptable, because a few powerful outlets decided it is."

Stream "sense" and pre-order the new album here.

Following Home (2021) and Elements (2024), after racking up more than 100 million streams, and touring the world with some of the biggest acts in the world including Korn, Corey Taylor, and Dayseeker, dissolution is the record Siamese did not plan to make but couldn't avoid.

It stands as the band's most personal release to date. Written during a period marked by one of their main songwriters leaving the band, the album forced a fundamental reassessment of both the process and the intentions. Siamese became more of a band, and less of a songwriting camp with dissolution. The result is a sound that is heavier than anything Siamese have released before. More instinctive, more aggressive and a more introvert. At the center of dissolution lies a deeply complicated father-son relationship.

The album represents the most comprehensive body of work Siamese have created. Along the way, the band collaborated with a close circle of trusted contributors, including Zachary Baker, Mads Zelasny, Zach Jones, KJ Strock, and Paul Spirou — each adding perspective without diluting the album's core identity.

SIAMESE ARE:
Mirza Radonjica – Vocals
Christian Lauritzen — Guitar, Violin
Marc Nommesen — Bass
Joakim Stilling — Drums

Iconic indiepop songstress Jacqui Hunt presents 'Desiderium' album with 2 sublime videos

Iconic Australian indie pop artist Jacqui Hunt presents her new album 'Desiderium' — out on CD & vinyl on June 26th — marking 40 years since launching pioneering electronic band Single Gun Theory. This superb collection moves through personal reflections on grief, loss, healing and love, it is released by her independent label QUSP with musical collaborator and husband Brian Conolly, previewed two superb videos — 'Planet', directed by Hunt with original graphics by Brian Conolly, and 'Cycles', which conveys an equally personal story.

Sonically abstract, smooth synths are intermittently spaced between organic pop structures. Songs that levitate, then ground, are fused together by the ethereal thread of Jacqui’s poetic radiance. Merging elements of Kate Bush, Tori Amos and Beth Gibbons, Hunt describes the feeling of this album "Like stepping out of your body for a while and grounding back to earth — floating on a synth wave while holding the raw reality of a simple piano. The bones that connect to the human voice like a string of air as it floats to the ether and returns to base."

"'Planet' is an electro-ethereal soundscape building to a rhythmic frequency of dreamy vocals that merge into the ether and dissipate into space. Initially a poem sent to me by Brian from overseas; I spontaneously turned it into a demo and sent it back to him from Sydney. He received it in a transit lounge in Kuala Lumpur. It conveyed so much to one another with so little. It is a love song; the poem stretches back through time and distance," says Jacqui Hunt.

'Cycles' presents a completely different landscape. A raw, melancholic piano ballad of heartfelt simplicity, it serves as a reflective turning point of grief, longing, and gratitude for a great love transitioned. Enveloped in powerful, multigenerational symmetry, this music video was created by Kade Stenders, a budding teenage filmmaker whose parents, famed film director Kriv Stenders and photographer Lisa Stonham, had previously directed several Single Gun Theory videos.

Jacqui shares, "There was a cyclic symbolism to this process, which was very fitting to the track and one that appealed to me, since 'Cycles' is very caught up in the life and death of my own father, who also directed theatre. The symbolic layers were of great importance to me, representing a huge turning point in my own life."

Primarily known as frontwoman of Single Gun Theory, formed in 1986, Hunt’s stellar artistic trajectory stands as a testament to her versatility and enduring impact across the global independent and electronic music landscape. As a powerhouse vocalist and intuitive co-writer, Hunt etched her name into Australian music history through her pivotal contributions to numerous projects.

Releasing three albums from 1987–1994, Single Gun Theory gained a steady international following, an ARIA nomination in the electronic dance category, and charted in Spain with ‘Exorcise This Wasteland’. With extensive placement in television and film, their music was most recently heard on the Paris runway for French label Chloé for their Winter 2026 parade.

Signed to Nettwerk Records, the band toured North America with Sarah McLachlanon her ‘Fumbling Towards Ecstasy’ tour, followed by a series of U.S. headline shows that gained them a loyal following. Releasing music in Australia through the cult label Volition, Single Gun Theory never officially broke up, but never toured again. Their latest release was the soundtrack for the film ‘The Monkey's Mask’ in 2001.

In the late 1990s, Hunt achieved global recognition through involvement with dreampop trailblazers Delerium, collaborated with Bill Leeb and Rhys Fulber as songwriter and vocalist on ‘Euphoria (Firefly)’ for the ‘Karma’ album, the Rabbit In The Moon remix of that song receiving a Juno Award.

Jacqui's solo career took center stage with her 2008 debut album ‘Auraphonic’, featuring the track ‘Calisthenics’ - licensed for the feature film ’Adore’ starring Naomi Watts. Expanding this independent creative footprint, 2017 also saw the debut album by her innovative design duo CiiVE.

A sought-after collaborator, Hunt co-wrote and voiced standout tracks like ‘Stay’ on Paul Mac’s Gold-certified debut album ‘3000 Feet High’, teamed with Volition label mates Vision Four 5 for their 2017 retrospective album ‘Cloud’, and crossed genres in 2022 to feature on ‘Centuries’, the solo album by David McClymont of seminal Scottish post-punk band Orange Juice. These diverse milestones highlight Hunt’s rare chameleon-like ability to seamlessly shift between genres and collaborative works.

Out now digitally, the 'Desiderium' album will be released on CD and limited edition vinyl on June 26th.  The remix of the 'Alice Magic' by K.I.M, one half of the Australian charting band The Presets, is also available across digital platforms such as Spotifyand Apple Music.

Wailin Storms Beckon Us into the Night on New Single “You Never Answered”

Recipients of high praise from NPR, The Needle Drop, Brooklyn Vegan, Decibel and Metal Hammer, Wailin Storms have caught fire since migrating to North Carolina in 2014. Now, the Durham natives are fanning the flames even higher with their upcoming fifth album and first for Season of Mist. On The Arsonist, the band deliver a fiery baptism of Southern gothic rock.

Today, Wailin Storms are premiering a music video for the second advanced single from The Arsonist with CVLT Nation. Howling and haunted, “You Never Answered” is a desperate plea to put down our phones and answer the call of the night.

“This song is about disconnecting from screens and returning to exploration”, Wailin Storms vocalist and guitarist Justin Storms says. “Don’t let your phone lead to your death by taking a selfie on a mountain. Pick up a manual film camera. Take some acid. Pick up a paint brush, cook, listen to a record, walk in nature, be there for the ones you love and find your path in the world without being tethered to technology”.  

Watch the music video for “You Never Answered” below.

The Arsonist comes out July 10, 2026 on Season of Mist

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/wailinstormsthearsonist

Wailin Storms are igniting the stage this summer with a headline U.S. tour. The band will perform “You Never Answered” and other songs off The Arsonist for the first time, along with crowd favorites from across their critically-acclaimed discography.

Wailin Storms 2026 The Arsonist U.S. Tour

July 17 - Durham, NC @ Stanczyk’s [Album Release Show]

July 29 - Johnson City, TN @ The Hideaway

July 30 - Atlanta, GA @ Star Bar

July 31 - Knoxville, TN @ The Pilot Light

August 1 - Cincinnati, OH @ Motr

August 2 - Youngstown, OH @ Westside Bowl

August 3 - Columbus, OH @ Dirty Dungarees

August 4 - Pittsburgh, PA @ The Government Center

August 5 - Baltimore, MD @ Metro Gallery

August 6 - Brooklyn, NY @ The Gutter

August 7 - New Hope, PA @ John and Peter’s

August 8 - Richmond, VA @ Cobra Cabana

The Arsonist calls back to Wailin Storms’ past. Recorded by Matt Talbott of Hum in full analog, the album rekindles the band’s roots in raw-to-the-bone blues punk. Like being woken from a bad dream, “You Never Answered” opens with frantic guitars before kicking down the door with a doomy groove.

“So much music is drowning in sterile digital production”, Storms says. “With this album, we recorded everything in analog. We didn’t touch a computer until mixing”.

Inspired by David Lynch and René Magritte, Wailin Storms do throw heavier splashes of surrealism into the fires of The Arsonist. “Climb right out, out of your head, and into the night”, Storms commands amidst howling riffs on “You Never Answered”. But the album is inflamed by real life anxieties. Before it drifts into a smoke-fueled daze, the song’s melody proves so intoxicating that your left with no choice but to follow the band into the dark. “Time to take a bullet that could change your mind”.

“I’ve always been fascinated with fire”, says Storms, who was raised by a church pianist and a Baptist preacher. As a child, growing up in Corpus Christi, Texas, he came dangerously close to accidentally burning his family’s house down. “It speaks to our inherent attraction to danger and annihilation, but also, our hope for transformation”.

The video for “You Never Answered” was directed and edited by Thomas Hudson (@thomaswhudson)

On The Arsonist, Wailin Storms deliver a fiery baptism of Southern gothic rock.

Lineup
Justin Storms - Lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Ben Melton - Lead guitar, backup vocals, Rhodes organ, piano
Steve Stanczyk - Bass
Mark Oates - Drums

Recording credits
Recorded at Earth Analog in May 2025

Production Credits
Produced and engineered by Matt Talbott
Mixed by Mike Lust at Phantom Manor ("Dead End", "Heart of Mine", "You Never Answered", "The Arsonist", "Never Rest", "The Wind", It's All Dark Now Where Your Eyes Used to Be"
Mixed by Dave Downham at Gradwell House ("Saved", "Patient Night")
Mastered by Dave Downham at Gradwell House

All lyrics written by Justin Storms

Cover art
Justin Storms

Layout and design
Steve Stanczyk

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/wailinstormsthearsonist

Available Formats

Digital Download

CD Digipack

12” Vinyl Gatefold (Black)

12” Vinyl Gatefold (Color)


Follow Wailin Storms
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2e1J5JQpROgSuT7RcsUbZ2
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/wailin-storms/451185826
Bandcamp: https://wailinstorms.bandcamp.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wailinstorms7
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wailinstorms/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wailinstorms/?hl=en

ORIGINAL IRON MAIDEN SINGER PAUL DI’ANNO’S BATTLEZONE RETURNS TO THE FRONTLINES WITH THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIGHTING BACK

In 1986, legendary vocalist Paul Di’Anno who was the unmistakable original voice behind Iron Maiden’s formative years launched a bold new chapter with the release of Fighting Back, the explosive debut album from Battlezone. Following his departure from Iron Maiden, Di’Anno refused to look backward. Instead, he forged ahead, assembling Battlezone to deliver a fresh assault of raw British heavy metal power. Originally released through Raw Power Records in the UK, Fighting Back captured Di’Anno’s unmistakable grit and intensity while showcasing a revitalized creative fire that reaffirmed his status as one of metal’s most commanding frontmen.

Featuring standout tracks including “Welcome to the Battlezone,” “Warchild,” “Running Blind,” and the title anthem “(Forever) Fighting Back,” the album fused aggressive riffs, streetwise energy, and melodic power into a statement of resilience and reinvention. Recorded in East London and produced by Ian Richardson alongside the band, the record introduced a formidable lineup featuring guitarists John Hurley and John Wiggins, bassist Pete West, and drummer Bob Falck.

Four decades later, Fighting Back remains an essential document of 1980s heavy metal and to celebrate this 40th Anniversary Deko Entertainment has remastered and repackaged this landmark release from the former Iron Maiden frontman.  It will be available in August on 180G vinyl in two Limited Edition colors, CD, and contains the bonus track “Rising Star”.

For fans of classic heavy metal, collectors of NWOBHM history, and those who continue to celebrate the enduring legacy of Paul Di’Anno, Fighting Back stands as a powerful reminder of an artist who never stopped fighting.

Pre-order Fighting Back on CD and LP: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/reissues/battlezone

For more information, visit:

www.dekoentertainment.com

KID BOOKIE Announces Highly Anticipated New Album 'Cheaper Than Therapy II' — Set for Release October 16th via FLG Records

Disclaimer: This video contains scenes of domestic violence, sexual assault, and suicide. Viewer discretion is highly advised.

Following the seismic impact of his recent singles “Rose McGowan” ft Rose McGowan and the Corey Taylor-assisted “Blame,” KID BOOKIE - the artist who famously refuses to be boxed in - has officially announced his new full-length studio album, 'Cheaper Than Therapy II,' arriving October 16th via FLG Records.

KID BOOKIE has spent over a decade dismantling the barriers between UK rap, alternative rock, and heavy metal. From his early days earning recognition on BBC Radio 1Xtra to his MOBO nomination for Best Alternative Music Act, BOOKIE has evolved into a formidable voice in the British alternative scene. 'Cheaper Than Therapy II' serves as the definitive evolution of his 2021 predecessor, blending trap aggression with soaring melodic hooks and unflinching emotional honesty.

The 11-track project is a masterclass in collaboration, and features a diverse roster of icons that reflect BOOKIE’s unpredictable creative universe. The album sees a return of his long-standing creative bond with Slipknot’s Corey Taylor on the searing track “BLAME,” and features a historic collaboration with Rose McGowan. The record also boasts appearances from UK rap royalty Lady Leshurr, Shona McGarty, and a special interlude from Kate Nash.

Produced largely by long-time collaborator Ziey Kizzy alongside BOOKIE himself, and featuring production from Sid Wilson (Slipknot) and Romesh Dodangoda (Bring Me The Horizon, Nova Twins), the album - recorded at ETB Audio Visual - boasts a sonic collision of icons and emotion.

Central to the album's emotional core is the new single “Prettier.” Confronting the harrowing realities of domestic abuse and the vital importance of highlighting difficult subjects, Bookie uses the track to demand a higher level of honesty in art.

“'Prettier' continues the story of ‘Pretty’ from 'Volume 1,' digging into the thoughts and feelings that keep us tethered to toxicity,” says BOOKIE. “We stay because of rose-tinted lenses, whether in romance or any relationship that fails its intended purpose. I chose to create a video inspired by the fact that hope doesn't always win; life doesn't always favour the brave or the hurt. Happy endings are a fallacy - portraying life in its most brutal form is the true reality. I do this because creating uncomfortable moments triggers reflection. I hold no reservations in challenging the status quo; it’s important to bring to light what is done in the dark to tell the stories that usually go unspoken.”

Watch the Video for "Prettier" Below:

'Cheaper Than Therapy II' captures KID BOOKIE at the height of his powers, trading underground cult status for undeniable main character energy. After storming the UK iTunes Rock Chart Top 10 and cementing his place on the Official Independent Charts with 2024’s 'Songs For The Living // Songs For The Dead,' BOOKIE has evolved beyond the "breakthrough" labels. He isn't just a contender; he’s the one setting the pace for the entire genre.

Speaking on the spirit of the new record, KID BOOKIE shares:

"'Cheaper Than Therapy II' is the closest thing to a full circle fuck you imaginable. After losing a home, a relationship, friends, family, agents, labels, and more, there was a time I had no hope but a remnant of a dream and a small flame. “Cheaper Than Therapy” was always about giving the underdog their moments, not just me. An underground artist bringing the legends and stars of rock and beyond into a melting pot of post-genre feeling and mood whilst asking them to bare their truths in audio format. Bringing through similar guests from Volume 1, CTT2aims to show that through all life throws at you, whether you’re the maverick, the disruptor, or able to bring the people together, doing it on your own terms for the sake of redemption was the therapy we all needed. Welcome to 'Cheaper Than Therapy II.'”

Pre-Order 'Cheaper Than Therapy II' HERE

Thrash Legends Flotsam and Jetsam Unleash "Rats In The Temple" Single + Video

THRASH LEGENDS FLOTSAM AND JETSAM UNLEASH RABID TITLE TRACK FROM FORTHCOMING ALBUM RATS IN THE TEMPLE .

ALBUM OUT VIA NAPALM RECORDS AUGUST 28 — PRE-ORDER

Finally, the time has come, the first look into thrash legends FLOTSAM AND JETSAM's new album Rats In The Temple, out August 28 via Napalm Records. The album's title track is a ghoulish hit packing sweeping guitarmonies, thunderous drums, and exalted frontman Eric A.K. Knutson's haunting wail. After four trailblazing decades, countless world tours, and 15 groundbreaking studio albums, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM remain refined and revered.

Eric A.K. Knutson says about the track:
"We're super excited to release the first single from the album, which is very fittingly the title track, 'Rats In The Temple'!  This song has a lot to say, and we hope the fans love the song as much as we do. This is possibly one of the most technically challenging songs FLOTSAM has ever recorded, and we look forward to delivering this song live as well!"

Watch the Official Video for "Rats In The Temple" Below:

Thrash metal icons FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, known for their trailblazing blend of blistering thrash and soaring power metal—established on breakthrough records like the Kerrang! championed classic Doomsday for the Deceiver, (1986), No Place for Disgrace, (1988), and Cuatro, (1992) and refined in their current renaissance with the German chart climbing The End of Chaos, (2019), Blood in the Water, (2021), and I Am the Weapon, (2024)—are back with their newest diamond, and Napalm Records debut, Rats In The Temple, out August 28. With nearly four decades on the scene, countless world tours, and appearances at prestigious festivals like Wacken, Graspop, Bloodstock, Alcatraz, and Rockhard, they've carved their sound down to a fine point, piercing listeners with earth-shattering blast beats, scorching guitars, epic string arrangements, and exalted frontman A.K. Knutson's unmistakably haunting wail. 

Frontman Eric A.K. Knutson about the album:
"This record is a BEAST, truly our best effort to date!! Do yourself a favor. Dim the lights, grab a drink, put the headphones on, and crank this up. You will not be sorry you did!!!"

Pre-Order Your Copy of Rats In The Temple HERE.

FLOTSAM AND JETSAM ARE:
​​Eric A.K. Knutson — Vocals
Michael Gilbert — Guitars
Steve Conley — Guitars
William Bodily — Bass
Ken — Drums

DEATH ANGEL ANNOUNCE 10TH ANNIVERSARY VINYL REISSUE OF THE EVIL DIVIDE

Bay Area thrash legends DEATH ANGEL will celebrate the 10th anniversary of their critically acclaimed eighth studio album, The Evil Divide, with a special vinyl reissue arriving July 24th via Nuclear Blast Records.

Originally released on May 27, 2016, The Evil Divide marked another triumphant chapter in the band’s storied career, capturing the ferocity, precision, and relentless energy that have defined Death Angel for more than four decades. Helmed by renowned producer Jason Suecoff at AudioHammer Studios, the album further cemented the band’s standing among thrash metal’s elite, earning widespread acclaim for its explosive songwriting, technical intensity, and emotionally charged performances.

The 10th anniversary LP edition will feature the bonus track ‘Wasteland,’ DEATH ANGEL’s powerful interpretation of the 1986 song originally performed by The Mission. Previously available only on select limited CD digipak editions outside the United States, the track will now make its vinyl debut while also becoming available for streaming worldwide for the very first time.

Revisit The Evil Divide by checking out the music video for the single ‘Lost.’ Below:

The reissue arrives as DEATH ANGEL continue celebrating another landmark in their legacy with their ongoing U.S. tour commemorating the 35th anniversary of their landmark 1990 album Act III.

Pre-order The Evil Divide (10th Anniversary Edition): https://deathangel.bfan.link/the-evil-divide-10

DEATH ANGEL Tour Dates:

May 27 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade (Hell)

May 28 - Orlando, FL - The Abbey

May 29 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Culture Room

May 30 - Tampa, FL - Orpheum

June 2 - Nashville, TN - Brooklyn Bowl

June 3 - Louisville, KY - Mercury Ballroom

June 5 - Milwaukee, WI - MKE Metal Fest

June 6 - St. Louis, MO - Red Flag

June 8 - Wichita, KS - Wave

June 9 - Greeley, CO - Moxi Theater

June 10 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep

June 11 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Complex

June 12 - Boise, ID - Shrine Ballroom

June 14 - Seattle, WA - Showbox

June 16 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theater

June 17 - Sacramento, CA - Ace of Spades

June 18 - San Luis Obispo, CA - Fremont Theater

June 19 - Santa Ana, CA - The Observatory

June 20 - Ventura, CA - Ventura Music Hall

June 21 - Santa Cruz, CA - The Catalyst

About DEATH ANGEL:

DEATH ANGEL is a pioneering American thrash metal band formed in 1982 in Daly City, California, and a vital force in the legendary Bay Area thrash movement. Emerging as teenage prodigies, the band quickly built a reputation for blistering speed, technical precision, fearless songwriting, and ferocious live performances — qualities that continue to define them more than four decades later.

Formed by cousins Rob Cavestany (guitar), Dennis Pepa (bass), and Andy Galeon (drums), alongside vocalist Mark Osegueda and guitarist Gus Pepa, DEATH ANGEL cut their teeth in local clubs before exploding onto the international stage with their 1987 debut album “The Ultra-Violence”, recorded when Galeon was just 14 years old. Its complex arrangements and explosive energy immediately distinguished them within the Bay Area scene. They followed with 1988’s “Frolic Through the Park”, which featured the breakout single and MTVfavorite “Bored,” even leading to the band hosting Headbangers Ball. In 1990, their major label debut “Act III”(Geffen Records) revealed a more dynamic and melodic dimension while retaining their thrash intensity. With MTV airplay for “Seemingly Endless Time” and “A Room With A View,” and a feature in People Magazine, the album cemented their status as one of thrash metal’s most musically adventurous acts.

After reuniting in 2001, DEATH ANGEL embarked on a powerful second chapter — one that would become among the strongest stretches of their career. Rather than leaning on nostalgia, they delivered a run of acclaimed releases that fused classic Bay Area aggression with sharpened songwriting and modern production. Beginning with “The Art of Dying” (2004) and continuing through “Killing Season” (2008), “Relentless Retribution” (2010), “The Dream Calls for Blood”(2013), “The Evil Divide” (2016), and 2019’s “Humanicide”, the band refined their attack while expanding their dynamics. Across these albums, intricate riff craftsmanship, blistering tempos, and socially aware lyricism became hallmarks of their modern era. “Humanicide”earned DEATH ANGEL a Grammynomination for Best Metal Performance, further solidifying their place among contemporary thrash metal’s most vital and respected forces.

In 2025, the band unveiled two standalone singles, marking their first new material in several years and signaling the next phase of their evolution. “Wrath (Bring Fire)” delivered a high-velocity assault rooted firmly in classic Bay Area ferocity, while “Cult of the Used” emerged as a sharp, socially charged anthem driven by precision riffing, thunderous rhythm work, and commanding vocals. Together, the releases reaffirmed DEATH ANGEL’s creative momentum and uncompromising intensity.

To celebrate the 35th anniversary of “Act III”, DEATH ANGEL launched a special anniversary tour performing the album in its entirety. The run combined full-album performances with select classics from across their catalog, offering longtime fans a rare and immersive experience. The tour included major U.S. markets and multiple hometown Bay Area performances — including two advanced sold out shows at the legendary Fillmore — underscoring the album’s enduring impact. The “Act III” Anniversary Tour continues into 2026 and 2027, with additional dates to be announced.

The current lineup — Mark Osegueda (vocals), Rob Cavestany (guitar), Ted Aguilar (guitar), Damien Sisson (bass), and Will Carroll (drums) — has remained intact for nearly two decades, forming one of the most stable and formidable configurations in the band’s history. That longevity translates powerfully to the stage, where DEATH ANGEL continues to tour extensively across North America, Europe, South America, Asia, and Australia, appearing at major festivals and headlining club and theater dates while maintaining their reputation as one of thrash metal’s most electrifying live acts.

Follow DEATH ANGEL:

https://www.deathangel.us/

https://www.facebook.com/deathangel

https://www.instagram.com/deathangelofficial

https://twitter.com/deathangel

https://www.youtube.com/@DeathAngel

KOE WETZEL RETURNS TO COUNTRY RADIO WITH “HURTS LIKE YOU” AHEAD OF JUNE 12 ALBUM, THE NIGHT CHAMPION

Koe Wetzel charges back to Country Radio this week with “Hurts Like You,” the lead single from his highly anticipated sixth studio album, The Night Champion, arriving June 12 via Columbia Records. “Hurts Like You” follows a landmark radio run for Wetzel’s Double-Platinum certified “High Road” featuring Jessie Murph, which spent five consecutive weeks at No. 1 and became the most-played song at Country Radio for all of 2025. 
 
Written by Wetzel alongside Ashley Gorley, Steph Jones, Carrie K and producer Gabe Simon, the jaggedly propulsive “Hurts Like You” offers the raw intensity fans expect, but with a vulnerability and surrender to desires that cut you open.

“‘Hurts Like You’ was one of the first songs that we wrote for the record,” Wetzel recalls. “It’s kind of about a toxic relationship; whenever you get into those situations, you know it’s not good for you, but there’s just something about it that keeps bringing you back. It’s hard to get away from. I feel like a lot of people go through that, so I hope people can relate to the way that we felt about it.”
 
Critics are already embracing the track’s sharp-edged energy and crossover appeal, with VICE praising the song as “an alt-rock revival… the Texas-born rocker blends Country & Western with post-grunge in a way that scratches so many itches. ‘Hurts Like You’ has grit, but never sacrifices melody. It’s relentlessly catchy, but it still has balls.”
 
Set for release June 12, The Night Champion captures the aftermath of a wild run, delivering all the signature force, punch and ragged details people expect, tempered by the clarity that comes with surviving it. Turning chaos, excess and hard-earned perspective into something built to endure, The Night Champion fuses all that’s happened since Wetzel first hit the road with a van and the drive to see how far he could take it.
 
“It’s a continuation of 9 Lives, from that record to now,” Wetzel offers of the follow-up to his globally connecting release. “Really, it’s everything that’s happened – because you don’t go from kids playing for beer to headlining Red Rocks, arenas all over the country, partying and trying to make sense of it all and not shift. My head space is clearer now. I can look back, see how it fits together. It doesn’t make sense, exactly, but it all happened. That search for what it all means keeps bringing me back.”
 
Whether fans were there from those first nights in Texas, the wake of his indie breakout Noise Complaint or found the music during last year’s radio rush, The Night Champion is built to offer a sense of all the phases as it brings the disparate audiences together. “I’m not torn between the worlds,” Wetzel notes of the convergence. “This is where all the fans meet. No matter when they got here, this is that moment.”
 
Pollstar’s “firebrand live sensation” is also bringing the new music to fans across the globe with The Night Champion World Tour, having recently wrapped his Australia run with dates across the U.S. and Canada to come. Shane Smith & The Saints, Ole 60, Wyatt Flores, Corey Kent, Wade Bowen, Bayker Blankenship, Kolby Cooper and Logan Jahnke join as support in varying combinations.
 
For more information and to purchase tickets to all upcoming shows, visit KoeWetzelMusic.com. Follow on TikTok@Koe_Wetzel and on Instagram and Facebook @KoeWetzelMusic.

The Night Champion World Tour Dates
Support Details Available via KoeWetzelMusic.com
July 8 | Edmonton, Alb. (Canada) | Rogers Place
July 10 | Penticton, B.C. (Canada) | South Okanagan Event Center
July 11 | Abbotsford, B.C. (Canada) | Abbotsford Centre
July 23 | Nampa, Idaho | Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
July 24 | Stateline, Nev. | Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic
July 25 | Las Vegas, Nev. | The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
July 30 | Airway Heights, Wash. | Northern Quest Casino
July 31 | Bend, Ore. | Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Aug. 1 | Tacoma, Wash. | Dune Peninsula
Aug. 6 | Bonner Springs, Kan. | Azura Amphitheater
Aug. 7 | Evansville, Ind. | Ford Center
Aug. 8 | Nashville, Tenn. | Bridgestone Arena
Aug. 12 | New York, N.Y. | Pier 17
Aug. 13 | Reading, Pa. | Santander Arena
Aug. 14 | Gilford, N.H. | BankNH Pavilion
Aug. 19 | Boston, Mass. | Leader Bank Pavilion
Aug. 20 | Washington, D.C. | The Anthem
Aug. 21 | Pittsburgh, Pa. | Petersen Events Center
Aug. 26 | Buffalo, N.Y. | Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B
Aug. 27 | Cleveland, Ohio | Wolstein Center
Aug. 28 | Rochester Hills, Mich. | Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
Sept. 3 | Austin, Texas | Moody Center
Sept. 4 | Baton Rouge, La. | Raising Cane’s River Center
Sept. 5 | Bossier City, La. | Brookshire Grocery Arena
Sept. 10 | Knoxville, Tenn. | Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center
Sept. 11 | Greensboro, N.C. | First Horizon Coliseum
Sept. 12 | Wilmington, N.C. | Live Oak Bank Pavilion
Sept. 17 | Alpharetta, Ga. | Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
Sept. 18 | Columbia, S.C. | Colonial Life Arena
Sept. 19 | Richmond, Va. | Virginia Credit Union LIVE!
Sept. 24 | Pikeville, Ky. | Appalachian Wireless Arena
Sept. 25 | Huntsville, Ala. | The Orion Amphitheater
Sept. 26 | Brandon, Miss. | Brandon Amphitheater
Sept. 30 | Rogers, Ark. | The Walmart AMP
Oct. 1 | North Little Rock, Ark. | Simmons Bank Arena
Oct. 2 | Tulsa, Okla. | BOK Center
Oct. 3 | Wichita, Kan. | INTRUST Bank Arena
Oct. 8 | Chicago, Ill. | Salt Shed Fairgrounds
Oct. 9 | Fishers, Ind. | Fishers Event Center
Oct. 10 | Milwaukee, Wis. | Fiserv Forum
Oct. 28 | Morrison, Colo. | Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Oct. 30 | Lubbock, Texas | Cook’s Garage
 
Additional Live Shows
May 30 | Panama City Beach, Fla. | Gulf Coast Jam  
June 12 | Del Mar, Calif. | San Diego County Fair  
June 14 | Santa Rosa, Calif. | Country Summer Music Festival
June 20 | Lewisburg, W.Va. | Wild Trails Festival  
June 27 | Ashland, Neb. | Country Drive Music Festival  
July 3 | Winnipeg, Man. (Canada) | Country Thunder Winnipeg  
July 16 | Eau Claire, Wis. | Country Jam USA  
July 17 | Manchester, Iowa | Delaware County Fair  
Aug. 15 | Montreal, Que. (Canada) | Lasso  
Aug. 22 | Lima, Ohio | Allen County Fair  
Aug. 29 | Lucknow, Ont. (Canada) | Lucknow’s Music in the Fields 
Oct. 16 | Salt Lake City, Utah | Red West Music Festival
Oct. 18 | Tucson, Ariz. | Boots in the Park
Nov. 20 | St. Petersburg, Fla. | St. Pete Country Fest  

Joan As Police Woman shares 'I Defy' feat. Krystle Warren, final single from 'Real Life Evolution' album (out June 12th)

n the home-stretch towards her “Real Life Evolution' album, out June 12th via UK independent Reveal Records, trailblazing NYC artist Joan As Police Womanpresents 'I Defy' feat. Krystle Warren.  Co-written and originally performed with Anohni, this infectious version previews a stunning collection of new arrangements of the songs from her debut album 'Real Life'.

Joan is also sharing a live rendition of 'I Defy', accompanied by Will Graefe and Jeremy Gustin, as part of 'The Real Life Anniversary Sessions', following earlier videos for 'Eternal Flame', 'Flushed Chest', 'The Ride' and 'Anyone'. The entire series was recorded by Adam Sachs at The Owl Music Parlor in Brooklyn and filmed by Ehud Lazin. 

Exactly 20 years since releasing 'Real Life', Joan has reimagined and re-recorded the album in full with numerous guests, including Iggy Pop, Will Graefe, Jeremy Gustin, Tony Scherr, Parker Kindred, Danny Blume, Oren Bloedow and Thomas Bartlett. Developed through countless performances, these renditions are brought to life by the brilliance of the players who helped define their sound. 

“This song is dear to my heart. Anohni and I wrote it mid-conversation in her tiny apt on 15th St. “I defy, I love your way”. It’s a declaration, an insistent act of love. Finding the right voice for Anohni’s part in 'I Defy' required someone truly special. I’ve long considered Krystle Warren one of the finest singers alive, and when I reached out to her, she sent her vocals back within a day. When I heard them, I nearly fell over,” says Joan Wasser.

"When playing live with Will and Jeremy, we took it down, softened the edges and warmed it with some muted sunshine. Will’s voice has a warmth you could describe as tawny. Jeremy’s drumming glows."

Joan Wasser, known professionally as Joan As Police Woman since 2004, is a critically acclaimed musician and producer, and a sought-after collaborator, dubbed “the coolest woman in pop” (The Times) and “one of the 21st century’s best musicians” (The Economist). As a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, her music defies easy categorization, crafting her own sound that blends various genres. She has released ten albums of original material, two cover albums, and an anthology.

Joan As Police Woman has recorded and performed with hundreds of artists, including Afrobeat legend Tony Allen, Lou Reed, Anohni & The Johnsons, Meshell Ndegeocello, Rufus Wainwright, John Cale, David Byrne, Dave Okumu, Chris Dowd, Lau, Scissor Sisters, Sparklehorse, Beck, Laurie Anderson, Lloyd Cole, Afel Bocoum, Dave Gahan, Tanya Donelly, David Sylvian, Steve Jansen and Damon Albarn (who collaborated with Joan on her song 'Get My Bearings' and on Gorillaz' 'Song Machine' album). She also a member of Iggy Pop's touring band (on keys and vocals).

As of May 26, 'I Defy' is available digitally everywhere. The 'Real Life Evolution' album will be released on June 12th. Now available for pre-order on Bandcamp, it is available on CD, digitally, and Limited Edition exclusive red marble vinyl.

Later this year, Joan embarks on her Real Life 20th Anniversary Tour, performing the 'Real Life' album as a trio, plus singles from her catalogue, fan favourites, deep cuts, reworked covers and some surprises!  Ahead of June's sold-out NYC shows at Joe's Pub, she has a free show at Bryant Park on June 18. Tour tickets can be ordered at https://linktr.ee/japw or www.joanaspolicewoman.com/tour.

CREDITS
Lyrics & Music written by Joan Wasser & Anohni
Published by Fists of Fury (BMI) / Rebis Music (ASCAP)
Joan Wasser  - vocals, piano, Wurlitzer, strings
Krystle Warren - vocals
Will Graefe - acoustic guitar
Oren Bloedow - electric guitar
Danny Blume - electric bass
Parker Kindred - drums
Produced by Joan Wasser
Recorded by Danny Blume at Hidden Quarry Studios, Bearsville, NY
Mixed by Patrick Dillett at Reservoir Studios
Mastered by Chris Gehringer at Sterling Sound
Video recorded live at The Owl Music Parlor, Brooklyn, NYC
Adam Sachs - audio recording engineer & mixer
Ehud Lazin - videographer
Album cover photo by Judi Rosen
P & (C) 2026 Sweet Police LLC under exclusive licence to Reveal Records
Joan As Police Woman photos by Judi Rosen
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

NEW YORK PERFORMANCES
JUNE 18  New York, 7pm - Bryant Park (FREE SHOW)
JUNE 20  New York, NY, 7pm  - Joe's Pub (SOLD OUT)
JUNE 20  New York, NY, 9pm  - Joe's Pub (SOLD OUT)
JUNE 21  New York, NY, 6pm  - Joe's Pub (SOLD OUT)

REAL LIFE ANNIVERSARY TOUR 2026
NOV 5  London, UK - Union Chapel
NOV 6  London, UK - Union Chapel
NOV 7  Manchester, UK - RNCM (Royal Northern College of Music)
NOV 9   Glasgow, UK - Oran Mor
NOV 11  Brugge, Belgium - Cactus Club
NOV 12  Amsterdam, Netherlands - Zonnehuis (sold out)
NOV 13  Hamburg, Germany - Mojo Club
NOV 15  Aarhus, Denmark - Train
NOV 16  Copenhagen, Denmark - DR Concert Hall
NOV 18  Budapest, Hungary - House of Music Hungary
NOV 20  Roma, Italy - Angelo Mai
NOV 22  Berlin, Germany - Haus des Rundfunks & Großer Sendesaal


Keep up with Joan As Police Woman
Website | LinkTree | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | BandsInTown | Joanthology Podcast | Press contact

Keep up with Reveal Records
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook  | Twitter | Instagram | Soundc loud | Press contact

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
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CRIMSON GLORY Announce a Bandcamp Listening Party for New Album Chasing The Hydra, Band Members to Chat with Fans During Party

Crimson Glory and BraveWords Records announce a free listening party on Bandcamp to celebrate the new album Chasing The Hydra on June 5th at 1pm EST. Come along to listen to the music with Ben Jackson and Travis Wills from the band and chat with them about the making of the album. Ben and Travis will be sharing stories and answer your questions about Chasing The Hydra.

"It's been nice," guitarist Ben Jackson tells BraveWords about the band's continued success. "People have been very open to the band coming back and everybody's very happy and enthusiastic about it. I've always wanted to keep the band going on a constant; music is in my blood, it's my life. I want to play in a band that has respect and some notoriety and can get some live gigs. Crimson Glory, we have a legacy, we have a following, and when we bring the band back the doors automatically open. We can play big festivals and put out a record. We don't want to sit idly by anymore.”

Click to RSVP to the Listening Party: https://bravewordsrecords.bandcamp.com/merch/crimson-glory-chasing-the-hydra-listening-party

Alongside mainstay founding members Ben, Jeff and Dana, the band announced in 2023 the addition of amazing new vocalist Travis Wills and guitarist Mark Borgmeyer. 

 
Don't miss Crimson Glory on the road in 2026:

JUN 12 ES SANTURTZI, Kabiefest

JUN 13 NL LEEUWARDEN, Into The Grave Festival

JUL 3 - ES CARTAGENA, Rock Imperium Festival

JUL 4 - BG SOFIA, Live & Loud

JUL 5 - GR VOLOS, Golden R Festival

JUL 6 - SE KNISLINGE, Time To Rock

JUL 18 - IT CREMONA, Luppolo In Rock

AUG 1 - DE WACKEN, Wacken Open Air

AUG 2 - GR CHANIA, Chania Rock Festival

AUG 5 - DE ESSEN, Turock

AUG 7 - BE KORTRIJK, Alcatraz Open Air

AUG 8 - DE GEISELWIND, Keep It True Legions

SEP 11 - US ATLANTA, GA, Progpower

SEP 17 - US MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 7th St Entry

SEP 18 - US MADISON, WI, Blades Of Steel

FROZEN CROWN Announce New Album Via Napalm Records!

The legend starts: FROZEN CROWN head into their very own age of gold with the announcement of their new album, The Legend of the Six Kings, coming October 2 via Napalm Records. Taking a more narrative approach than previous releases, their sixth album sends the Italian band on an epic quest. The ten brand-new heavy power metal tracks expand their dynamic repertoire into a slightly darker, but nevertheless illustrious, direction. With lead vocalist Giada "Jade" Etro changing her formerly cheerful approach to claim the sinister titular frozen crown, the band shows its true form with this straightforward punch of a record. The Legend of the Six Kings has FROZEN CROWN take the throne deserving of their band name. A powerful work of rousing heavy power metal and massive vocal arrangements, the six-piece delivers a glorious performance filled with energetic melodies and catchy choruses. The Legend of the Six Kings matures the band's trademark sound and makes sure that these six kings and queens will remain what the title states: legends. The album is open for pre-order now.

FROZEN CROWN about The Legend of the Six Kings:

"With our sixth album—our second on Napalm Records—we continue our search for the quintessential FROZEN CROWN tune, distilling the key elements of our sound and style into increasingly concise and straightforward songs, stripping away all unnecessary frills.

"The Legend of the Six Kings draws directly from our debut album The Fallen King, continuing the saga of the Kings and the Tyrant, as we are—thanks to a brilliant newly extended team—finally able to do justice to what we had in mind with the original concept of the band. The visionary genius of Raoul Noise (the video maker behind all our new videos and band photos), the masterful craftsmanship of Daria Gislon (who designed and built the throne and the literal 'frozen crown') and of course the outstanding artistic talent of Sheila Franco (who hand painted our album cover art) gave life to the vibrant, obscure, frozen world we had in mind since the very beginning of the band, somewhere between J. R. R. Tolkien’s harmonious and regal aesthetics and Robert E. Howard's brutality.

"The Legend of the Six Kings brings not only new visuals, but also an empowered sound, with the young war hearts getting older on the battlefield and becoming an increasingly leading force of the Crown (with drummer and multi-instrumentalist Niso Tomasini becoming a more integral part of the songwriting together with singer Giada 'Jade' Etro and mastermind Federico Mondelli) and new warriors joining our ranks (Aleksandra Stamenkovic and her scorching, old school, abrasive guitar leads).

This sixth album depicts the strength of our six band members, and our personal idea of Power Metal infused in ten catchy tracks touching the most varied nuances of the genre, from raw and uncompromising Speed ​​Metal, to the sumptuous magniloquence of Symphonic Metal, to the occasional linear chaos of Melodic Death Metal, but always sounding as FROZEN CROWN as ever!"

Get Your Copy Of The Legend of the Six Kings NOW!

SERPENT LORD Streams New Album via Black Metal Promotion Ahead of Friday's Release

Solo pagan black metal project SERPENT LORD will be releasing its debut album, 'The Once Forgotten Ways of Old,' on May 29, 2026 via Eisenwald Records. The project is now streaming the offering in its entirety ahead of Friday's release via Black Metal Promotion, which can be found below.

SERPENT LORD first slithered into existence in 2003, emerging as a solitary pagan black metal vessel forged by Jake Superchi (UADA, Ceremonial Castings). Though the project's first true album was recorded in 2005, the work was abruptly shelved and lay dormant for twenty years. Now, in the Year of the Snake, the ancient offering has been reborn and reimagined as 'The Once Forgotten Ways of Old,' preserving every note of its primordial conception.

The album was re-recorded in the cold heart of the Pacific Northwest between 2022 and 2025, engineered and mixed by Jake Superchi, and mastered by Arthur Rizk. The release features new artwork and the original logo created by Kris Verwimp, along with photography by Peter Beste.

Pre-orders are now live via the Obsidian Spells Shop (North America), Eisenwald (EU/UK), and Bandcamp (Worldwide).

Originally formed over two decades ago, SERPENT LORD existed largely in the shadows, issuing only a handful of demos before entering an extended period of dormancy. Yet, the creative force behind the project never faded. Ideas, fragments, and compositions endured across the years, shelved for the right moment, only fully taking shape and being realized in the Year of the Snake, when the vision was finally forged into its definitive form.

Early demo material already hinted at what SERPENT LORD would become: a severe balance between melodic grandeur and unrestrained aggression, with transitions between atmosphere and brutality, produced to enhance rather than obscure its intensity.

Founded by Jake Superchi (known for its creative force in UADA and CEREMONIAL CASTINGS), SERPENT LORD channels the spirit of ’90s pagan black metal. The album stands as a triumphant and immersive work - melodic, fierce, and steeped in ritualistic energy. Expansive riffing, evocative passages, and a dynamic interplay between harsh and atmospheric elements, both timeless and fully awakened.

The album was recorded and mixed by Jake Superchi, and mastered by Arthur Rizk, achieving a sound that retains raw edge while delivering clarity and depth. The cover artwork, created by Kris Verwimp, along with photography by Peter Beste, further underscoring the album’s mythical and arcane atmosphere.

With 'The Once Forgotten Ways of Old,' SERPENT LORD emerges from decades of silence with a work that fulfills the promise of its early recordings; it's an album shaped by time, and driven by an uncompromising vision of black metal.

Lineup:

Jake Superchi - all instruments & vocals

Cover Art & Logo: Kris Verwimp

Mixing & Engineering: Jake Superchi

Mastering: Arthur Rizk

Pre-orders:

https://store.eisenton.de/ (EU/UK)

https://obsidianspells.bigcartel.com/ (North America)

https://serpentlordusa.bandcamp.com/album/the-once-forgotten-ways-of-old (Worldwide)

Defiled Upend Death Metal Convention on New Single “Altered State”

While masters of the vile art known as death metal since the early ‘90s, Defiled aren’t relics or custodians for the old-school. The Japanese legends have shared stages with Morbid Angel, Mayhem and Cannibal Corpse, but, historically, they’ve carved their own singular path through metal’s hallowed crypts. Their upcoming ninth album continues to alter the genre in unthinkable ways. On Altered State, they deliver a dizzying blast of death metal straight from the future.    

Today, Defiled are releasing a music video for the third and final advanced single from Altered State. While upholding death metal’s raw speed, the title track from the band’s new album upends all conventions at every twist and turn.  

“This song showcases our core identity”, Defiled guitarist and founding member Yusuke Sumita says. “The tempo shifts lean more toward progressive or fusion methodologies than traditional death metal, creating a dramatic, thrilling atmosphere that defies monotony”.

Watch the music video for “Altered State” below:

Altered State comes out June 12, 2026 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/defiledalteredstate

Can’t wait for Altered State? You can hear the entire album before it comes out by RSVPing to this week’s Bandcamp Listening Party.

Defiled Altered State Bandcamp Listening Party

Thursday, May 28 @ 12:00 pm Central European Summer Time / 6 am Eastern Time

RSVP

https://defiledjapan.bandcamp.com/live/altered-state-listening-party

Altered State isn’t afraid to wind through the darkest and most mysterious corners of our collective consciousness. But listen closely to Defiled and all secrets will be revealed. “Receive the power”, the band command on the album’s title track with a chaos that only they can control.

Lineup
Shinichiro Hamada - Vocals, Guitar
Yusuke Sumita - Guitar
Takachika Nakajima - Bass
Keisuke Hamada - Drums

Production credits
Recorded at Studio Zot in Tokyo, Japan
Producer - Yusuke Sumita
Sound Engineers - Shinichiro Hamada and Keisuke Hamada
Mixing and Mastering Studio - Studio Nest in Chiba, Japan
Mixing and Mastering Engineer - Kenji Kikuchi

Songwriting credits

Music and lyrics by Yusuke Sumita

Cover art
Wes Benscoter

Booking contact
Yusuke Sumita - info@defiled.info


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

Available formats
CD Digipack
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Black)
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Transparent Yellowish-Green)

Follow Defiled
Website : http://www.defiled.info/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/defiled
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/defiledjapan
Bandcamp : https://defiledjapan.bandcamp.com
Soundcloud : https://soundcloud.com/defiled
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@defiled
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6KDc0SB4ero6zAgrafjVrt
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/defiled/72867298
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/music/player/artists/B001GJ407S/defiled

Black Lodge Records Announces the Signing of FEJD

Today, Swedish folk metal pioneers FEJD have officially signed with Black Lodge Records and are set to release their highly anticipated fifth full-length album, ‘Nifelheim,’ on August 21, 2026.

With ‘Nifelheim,’ FEJD returns in powerful form. From the very first note, the album draws listeners into a world of ancient legends and Nordic mysticism, carried by rich arrangements and a deep sense of melancholic atmosphere.

Rooted in their distinctive blend of traditional folk instruments and metal, FEJD once again reinforces their position as one of the leading names in the folk metal scene.

“We are thrilled to have FEJD join the Black Lodge family,” says the label. “Their unique sound and artistic vision make them a perfect addition to our roster, and we’re excited to bring'Nifelheim' to audiences worldwide.”

📸: Anna Lynx

FEJD are:

Patrik Rimmerfors: Lead vocals, bouzouki

Niklas Rimmerfors: Moraharpa (keyed fiddle)

Esko Salow: Drums

Lennart Specht: Keyboard

Thomas Antonsson: Bass