Progressive Metal Band Take & Take Release Debut Album 'Disillusion' Out Now! New Video for "Digging"!

March 24, 2024

Progressive metal band Take & Take's debut album Disillusion released today, March 22, 2024. Crafting every element from concept to concrete, the musical visionary Eddie Trager helmed the entire process—ideas, composition, instrumental and vocal performances, and even the captivating hand-drawn cover art.

In collaboration of the album release, the band also dropped their new music video for "Digging"! WATCH it Below.

In this artistic endeavor, Trager found collaboration in the form of the legendary Matt Bayles. Known for his contributions to some of Eddie's all-time favorite albums, Bayles lent his expertise to the mixing duties at the prestigious Red Room in Seattle. Meanwhile, metal production titan Jens Bogren took the reins for mastering at his renowned Fascination Street Studios in Malmo, Sweden, ensuring the album's sound reaches new heights.

Disillusion draws inspiration from a diverse array of progressive musical influences, weaving a tapestry that spans from the avant-garde sounds of Ihsahn, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, Opeth, Mastodon, Wilderun, and The Mars Volta to the vibrancy of Jacob Collier, The Beatles, Queen, and Yes. The album masterfully navigates through a spectrum of musical genres, seamlessly blending pop sensibilities with experimental twists that defy traditional forms.

Prepare to embark on a musical odyssey that transcends boundaries, as Take & Take introduces Disillusion to the world —a testament to innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

"Sticky" - the first single from the upcoming Disillusion album - dropped January 12th with a simultaneous video premiere at Metal Injection.
Check it out HERE

"That Won’t Last", the second single, came out February 16 with a lyric visualizer by Drain Hope.

Meet Eddie Trager, a versatile artist whose musical journey spans a spectrum of roles and genres:

Formerly a rhythmic force as the drummer and percussionist for Nekrogoblikonfrom 2007 to 2016, Eddie contributed not only his drumming skills but also his talents on xylophone, glockenspiel, marimba, and earned credits as a songwriter.

Currently, he is making waves as the drummer for the new punk/hardcore band, Last Leg, as well as handling production and mixing duties for their debut EP. Additionally, Eddie showcases his guitar prowess with The Wailing Coast, a rock band based in China, where he intricately weaves melodies into their sonic landscape.

As the leader of Eddie Spaghetti and the Selfish Bitches, Eddie brings an absurd sensibility to modern music. Moreover, his collaborative efforts with Emo/Shoegaze/chamber music artist A Lady Named Isaac add another layer to his diverse musical portfolio.

Eddie Trager's journey with Take & Take began in 2016, during his travels through Colombia. The song forms coalesced during live demo sessions in the midst of the 2020 lockdown in Xiamen, China. Take & Take is the sound of personal struggle and awakening, of greed and gain, of telling lies and being lied to, of deep disappointment and personal loss, the rise of ego and the inevitable fall. It's a poetic testament to the transformative power of heavy music, inviting those who truly listen to join the experience. Take & Take isn't just music; it's an immersive journey through the complexities of the human experience—raw, unapologetic, and undeniably powerful.

Check Out Take & Take Online:

Tzarina Unveil Self Titled Album via TLG/Virgin Music Group

March 24, 2024

The dynamic post-hardcore band Tzarina has unleashed their self-titled album through TLG/Virgin Music Group. Helmed by the visionary songwriter Craig William, this musical saga is a riveting journey that pushes the boundaries of post-hardcore, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

The sonic landscape of Tzarina's self-titled album is meticulously crafted, thanks to the combined efforts of Nick Bellmore at Dexters Lab Recording and Craig William at ABQ Studios. The production, engineering, mixing, and mastering was done by Nick Bellmore and reflects a commitment to sonic excellence.

Immerse yourself in the powerful soundscape as Tzarina pushes musical boundaries with their compelling release. The band held their album release show at the iconic Saint Vitus Bar in Brooklyn, NY on March 20, 2024.

For songwriter Craig William, the crux of the musical endeavor powered by the band Tzarina has always been to explore the more ethereal themes evident in the mixture of metal, post-rock and post-hardcore genres expressed in their music. This is evident in Tzarina's trail of singles, which have been seeing their release since October of 2020.

It has been almost two years since the full LP was recorded, so they are slated to release their first complete work later this year. This has been a long-awaited moment for the band, who have been hard at work perfecting their sound and experimenting with various elements of their live performance.

Tzarina is composed of Craig William on vocals and guitar, Mark Ayesh on guitar and backup vocals, Robert Scott Abrams on drums, and Michael Forsyth on bass. With the constraints resulting from the COVID pandemic, the band was forced to have a bit more of a DIY ethic, with William handling the brunt of the songwriting, and recording, while in isolation. This did not stop the rest of the members from contributing where they could and the result is nothing short of a sound that is distinctly their own.

This is a group that takes great pride in its artistry, and it shows in the level of care put into every aspect of its music. It is this dedication that has allowed them to continue to evolve and grow as artists.

They are known for their aggressive live shows juxtaposed with beautifully textured music and thought-provoking lyrics that explore the human experience. With heavy, driving riffs and powerful vocals, Tzarina is poised to become one of the most exciting acts coming up in the Brooklyn area.

Tzarina is a band that is constantly striving to push themselves creatively, and they show no signs of slowing down any time soon. With a new album on the horizon and an ever-growing live show, there is much to be seen and heard from this talented group of musicians. Whether you're a post-hardcore fan or just appreciate great music in general, Tzarina is definitely a band to keep your eye on.

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

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THE FRONTMEN'S SELF-TITLED DEBUT ALBUM ARRIVES TODAY VIA BBR MUSIC GROUP/BMG NASHVILLE

March 23, 2024

THE FRONTMEN, three of ‘90s country’s most recognizable voices — Richie McDonald, formerly of Lonestar; Tim Rushlow, formerly of Little Texas; and Larry Stewart of Restless Heart — today release their self-titled debut album via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. The Frontmen is available for streaming and download HERE.

The Frontmen, produced by two-time GRAMMY-nominated Mickey Jack Cones, features nine original songs, as well as three Lonestar, Little Texas and Restless Heart No. 1 hits, re-recorded Frontmen-style. The trio tag team lead vocals throughout.

"It's super cool to release brand new Frontmen music as a full album," says Stewart. "I'm so excited about this music, these songs and how this project represents the three of us so perfectly. Mickey Jack Cones did a magical job capturing Richie, Tim and myself from top to bottom. I can’t wait for the world to hear it and I couldn’t be more proud!"

Original tunes on the project ("Beatles and Eagles," "The Radio Played," "Layin' Low in Mexico," "It Was Always You," "Rattlesnake," "I Need You," "Goodbye Beautiful Goodbye," "Should've Run Out of Angels" and "Left Their Mark") were hand-picked by the trio and Cones. Classic tunes on the album are songs most will instantly recognize: Lonestar's “Amazed (The Frontmen Edition),” Little Texas' “God Blessed Texas (The Frontmen Edition)” and Restless Heart's “I’ll Still Be Loving You (The Frontmen Edition).”

"I feel like a kid on Christmas morning, waiting to unwrap the presents," notes McDonald. "We’ve been anxiously waiting to unwrap this new Frontmen music and share with the world for awhile now. Thanks to everyone involved for help making this dream a reality."

“It feels quite surreal to finally let the world in on what we have been cooking in the kitchen with The Frontmen," adds Rushlow. "For 14 years playing select shows at home and overseas for our men and women in uniform, it's time to see what the world thinks of us! I am more proud of this record with Larry and Richie than any music I have ever been involved in making. Mickey Jack Cones is a true believer who totally knew where to navigate this new sound and yet still be reminiscent of our past successes. We are so grateful to Jon Loba and his team at BMG Nashville for this opportunity. Let's GO!"

About The Frontmen:
The Frontmen features three singers who were THE voices of three of the top country bands of the '90s: Richie McDonald, formerly of Lonestar, Tim Rushlow, formerly of Little Texas, and Larry Stewart of Restless Heart. From their rave review performances around the globe for our troops, to casinos, fairs and corporate events, to their globally televised performance on the steps of the hallowed Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, The Frontmen are making their mark on the country music scene. Stewart, Rushlow and McDonald have collectively sold over 30 million records and had over 30 major hits between them. They have a chemistry and brotherhood seldom matched, and they have logged the travel miles to prove it, wowing audiences around the globe with their brand of highly successful intimate unplugged shows. Powerhouse hits performed by The Frontmen include Restless Heart classics, “The Bluest Eyes in Texas,” “That Rock Won’t Roll,” “I’ll Still Be Loving You” and “Why Does It Have to Be (Wrong or Right)." Lonestar smashes such as “Amazed,” “Front Porch Looking In,” and “I’m Already There,” plus Little Texas hits including “God Blessed Texas,” “Amy’s Back in Austin,” and “What Might Have Been.” These songs and many others included in their shows are the soundtrack of a generation. With their combined vocal and instrumental talents, The Frontmen deliver a high-energy show packed with fan-favorites from their three award-winning and critically acclaimed bands. The Frontmen’s debut self-titled album, THE FRONTMEN (available via BBR Music Group / BMG Nashville), brings the three iconic voices to the forefront for the first time. The twelve-track album, produced by two-time GRAMMY-nominated Mickey Jack Cones, features nine original songs, as well as three Lonestar, Little Texas and Restless Heart No. 1 hits, re-recorded Frontmen-style. The trio tag team lead vocals throughout.

For more information, visit thefrontmenlive.com.

Kenny Chesney's BORN Is Here; 15 Songs, "Sunday TODAY" & A Lotta No Shoes Nation

March 23, 2024

Four years... songs camps... good friends... crazy great musicians... new collaborators... writing songs to distill life, making music for all the reasons. Kenny Chesney didn’t see it coming, didn’t set out to make an album. Instead, he’s spent the time since the world shut down playing music with friends, scraping bits of life into lyrics and melodies, listening to songs he loved and recording when the moment struck with longtime collaborator Buddy Cannon. After all that, BORN is born.

“I can’t call it a process, because we never set out to make a record, just explore songs and moments for the sake of music,” Chesney offers. “All of sudden, time had passed and somehow we had all these songs that looked like different pieces of who I – and just about everyone in No Shoes Nation, too – am.

“It wasn’t a master plan. There was no theme we’re singing about that holds it together. But if you listen to all 15 songs, you’ll get the high energy fun, chasing adventures, don’t let people get you down piece and you’ll get the more reflective thinking about someone who’s died, the person you know you shouldn’t call emotions that have always been in the music, too.”

Whether the rush of “Just To Say We Did,” the chasing adventure “One More Sunset,” the sweeping drama of “One Lonely Island,” or the naughty no-strings delight of “Guilty Pleasure,” as well as the driving “Long Gone” and chilled philosophizing of “This Too Shall Pass,” BORN offers a bunch of feel good to make a crazy world feel better. On the other end of the spectrum, Chesney gets contemplative with “Come Here, Go Away,” the passage of time healer “The Way I Love You Now,” the pensive female freedom of “Top Down” and the album closing toast to those who’ve passed away “Wherever You Are Tonight.”

“Making music to make music, suddenly there’s room for a few road trip songs like ‘One More Sunset’ or ‘Just To Say We Did,’ songs that sound like me and my buddies growing up,” says the eight-time Entertainer of the Year. “And you don’t worry as much about having a few songs that are more introspective, or looking at the tough spots of letting go like ‘Thinkin’ Bout’ and ‘Come Here, Go Away,’ which everyone’s lived through.

“When you listen to ‘Born,’ there’s a whole lot of truth about living, life, the big questions and what we’re all trying to experience. That banjo out front really throws you into the song, which feels great. I love a lyric that throws out all the options, but it never actually tells you what to do. Here it comes down to one existential truth, no matter who you are or what you’re chasing: ‘one thing’s for certain, we’ve all been living since the day we were born.’”

After all these months, No Shoes Nation can finally unpack all the moods and moments that make BORN Chesney’s most far-reaching album to date. With “Take Her Home” cresting the Top 10, three layers of rehearsals under way for the Sun Goes Down 2024 Tour and Chesney on “Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist” this weekend, the time has arrived for new music to set the tone for another summer of tailgates and stadiums for No Shoes Nation.

MASTIFF's new album 'Deprecipice' out now!

March 23, 2024

Everything Mastiff does is in the name of intensity. Since forming amid the misery of Kingston-upon-Hull in 2013, the five-piece have crashed extreme metal, sludge and hardcore together to create the most brutal sonic onslaughts possible all in the name of keeping their music fresh, raw and seething.

Signing to MNRK Heavy three years ago, Mastiff’s commitment to blunt-force aggression remains untempered. Their 2021 album, Leave Me The Ashes Of The Earth, was described by Blabbermouth’s Dom Lawson as a “horrifying slab of disgust” and “a sustained scream in the face of uncontrollable madness”. Now comes its long-anticipated follow-up: Depricipice – an album that, somehow, smacks even harder than anything this band have unchained before produced by longtime collaborator Joe Clayton (Wallowing, Ithaca, Tuskar) at Manchester’s No Studio.

“We’ve gone quite a lot towards a hardcore sound,” says Hodge. “Where the last one was more death metal, this one’s a lot more staccato: a lot more defined, riff-wise.”

Unlike so many of their extreme metal peers right now, though, Mastiff didn’t source this rejuvenated savagery from the anxieties and frustrations of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the lockdowns ended and real life started to resume in 2021 and 2022, Hodge and Lee noticed the spirits of the world around them lifting. Feelings of trauma and isolation were beginning to enter people’s rear-view mirrors – and it was an overcoming that the duo couldn’t relate to. Lee was mourning the loss of his mother, while Hodge realised he was still grieving over the death of his five-day-old son, Isaac, in 2010.
“The album’s called Deprecipice, and that pretty much sums up where me and James were when we wrote it,” says the singer. “We were both standing back on the edge of a depressive void.”
Bite Radius” begins Deprecipice in particularly apoplectic form. There’s no fancy buildup to its attack of hard-edged guitar chords and skull-rattling snares, and that rampage is quickly joined by Hodge’s incensed, mic-distorting snarls. Imagine Mastodon recording music on the most aggravating day of their lives and you begin to understand the impact Mastiff bring.
Deprecipice’s hardcore edge barges in through a series of unrepentant breakdowns, from “Bite Radius” to the cataclysmic drop at the end of “Everything Is Ending”. Afterwards, the scurrying punk drums of “Skin Stripper”, the choking atmosphere of “Cut Throat” (featuring US noise/doom brutes Primitive Man) and the immense wall of guitars during “Serrated” find new ways to make unflinching audial violence feel compelling throughout.

With Deprecipice, Mastiff have made a magnum opus that bleeds with genuine pain.
GET 'DEPRECIPICE' HERE

Indie rock trio Onceweresixty presents vibrant new album 'Loco Sunset Boulevard / Ghetto Blast Noise Machine'

March 22, 2024

"Riveting, full of youthful energy, Pills is an upbeat offering with and infectious beat and memorable arrangement. This, mixed with the sometimes wistful sometimes melancholic rock found elsewhere on the album, shows Onceweresixty’s ability to strike a good balance in the 8 tracks offered" ~ The Spill Magazine

"The majority of LSB/GBNM is drawn from their roots from indie in the 2000s, a languid indie now given a harder edge that reflects current times. Their laidback style is very heady as all the instruments swirl around in a dreamy miasma" ~ Joyzine

Indie rock trio Onceweresixty are back with the album 'Loco Sunset Boulevard / Ghetto Blast Noise Machine', created over a period of three years at Villa Albrizzi Marini, a magical place in the Venice countryside hills en route to the Alps. Having set up their studio on this 1400-villa property, owned by the Armenian Church, finally they can present this 8-track album (structured in two parts as a double EP).

The album is being released on CD and vinyl by Uglydog Records, together with Beautiful Losers and PrettyOK Records. Earlier, the band teased the lead track 'Don't Get Stuck' and latest single 'Pills', an adrenaline-infused song about the misguided use and abuse of psychotropic “medicine”.

Founded by Marco Lorenzoni (guitars, vocals and keyboards) and Luca Sella (drums, guitar and vocals), the duo began collaborating in 2001. Moving on from their original band MR60, they relaunched onto the music scene as Onceweresixty in 2018 after a 10-year hiatus, rounded out by the addition of Enrico Grando (keyboards and saxophone) shortly after their 2021 album 'The Flood'.

Marco Lorenzoni explains, "The Villa - an ongoing project of urban regeneration via art activism - is absolutely inspiring and amazing, and we’re glad to be part of it. Onceweresixty and our own label Uglydog Records have always been at the forefront of promoting the arts, supporting artists and creating social connections. This is our little Warhol Factory in the countryside."

Onceweresixty draws their roots back to an ancient tale about the ghost of a beatnik biker living in a broken toy keyboard. "Sometimes he takes control of our minds and makes us play strange weird songs," says Lorenzoni, who continues to tell the tale of the band's origin.

Exploring new musical territory, while still paying homage the sonic ghosts of such artists as Belle & Sebastian, Pavement, Morphine, Low, Herman Dune, Silver Jews and The Velvet Underground, the band's indie dream of the early 2000s ultimately gave way to colder and leaner sounds, better reflecting the current times.

As of March 22, the double EP 'Loco Sunset Boulevard / Ghetto Blast Noise Machine' will be available everywhere, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp, where it may also be obtained on vinyl and CD.

CREDITS
Music written by M.Lorenzoni, L. Sella, E. Grando
Lyrics written by M. Lorenzoni
Marco Lorenzoni - guitars, vocals & keyboards
Luca Sella - drums, guitar & vocals
Enrico Grando - keyboards, vocals & saxophone
Recorded and produced by Onceweresixty at VAMpires! Room
Mixed by Mauro Martinuz at Bottega Sonora
Mastered by Federico Pelle at Basement Studio
Cover artwork by Freddy Mason
Studio photos of Onceweresixty by Ilaria Baggio
Live photos of Onceweresixty by Veronica Bassani and Freddy Mason
This record is dedicated to Loco, who was known to be a good dog, and Enrico Pese, who was known to be a good guy

Saul Share "More of the Same" Video — WATCH // Spring Tour Kicks Off Next Week

March 22, 2024

NEW ALBUM THIS IS IT... THE END OF EVERYTHING OUT NOW

Iowa hard rock heavyweights SAUL — brothers Blake Bedsaul [lead vocals] and Zach Bedsaul [lead guitar, backup vocals], William McIlravy [bass, backup vocals], and Myles Clayborne [drums] — are about to hit the road on a headline tour with Kingdom Collapse serving as support. The tour kicks off on March 29 in their native Iowa and runs through April 12 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. All dates are below. Get tickets here.

To get the ball rolling and stoke the fire of fans, the band has shared the video for new single "More of the Same." Watch it Below.

"For this video, we decided to go super raw," the band says. "One take, one camera. It's us doing our thing, in our element. Plus, we put a ton of easter eggs from all the music videos through out the set. See if you can spot them all."

Saul dropped its latest album THIS IS IT... THE END OF EVERYTHING last year via Spinefarm. It was celebrated for sticking to its "own artistic terms without bending at the knee to current trends" by Cryptic Rock and "a master class in hard rock" by Brutal Planet. Get it here.

Check out "TOOTH AND NAIL" and "A MILLION MILES" from the album.

SAUL ON TOUR:
WITH KINGDOM COLLAPSE:
3/29 — Des Moines, IA — Lefty's Live Music
3/30 — Madison, WI — The Annex
3/31 — Westland, MI — Token Lounge
4/2 — Johnson City, TN — Capones
4/3 — Atlanta, GA — Masquerade (Purgatory)
4/5 — Dallas, TX — RBC
4/6 — Austin, TX — Come And Take It Live
4/7 — Houston, TX — Scout Bar
4/9 — Oklahoma City, OK — 89th Street
4/10 — St Louis, — Old Rock House
4/11 — Sioux City, IA — The Marquee
4/12 — Sioux Falls, SD — Remedy at 611

ABOUT SAUL:
This Iowa quartet continues to bring audiences together with a one-two punch of pummeling metallic grooves and towering melodies. Amassing tens of millions of streams and earning acclaim from Revolver, Guitar World, Loudwire, and many more, the group fortify an unbreakable bond with listeners on their second full-length offering, THIS IS IT…THE END OF EVERYTHING [Spinefarm]. For this record, the band collaborated with producer Kile Odell [Motionless In White, Nita Strauss]. Saul emerged out of the Midwest in 2017 and tirelessly bulldozed a path to the forefront of modern rock. They notably performed alongside everyone from Motionless In White, Atreyu, August Burns Red, Crown The Empire, Bush, and 10 Years to HELLYEAH and Nonpoint in addition to gracing the stages of festivals, including Rebel Rock, Rock Fest, Rock USA, Inkcarceration, and Blue Ridge Rock Fest with Rob Zombie, Mudvayne, and Slipknot. The group independently landed a bona fide hit in the form of "Brother"— an homage to the co-founders' late brother Caleb. It marked their first #1 on Sirius/XM Octane in addition to gathering over 9 million Spotify streams and paving the way for their 2020 full-length debut, Rise As Equals. Co-written with David Draiman of Disturbed, "King Of Misery" reeled in 3.7 million Spotify streams, while "Trial By Fire" also surpassed 3 million Spotify streams. Of the former, American Songwriter praised "'King of Misery' wasted no time jumping into the heavy mainstream riffs that Saul set out to wrangle," and Outburn hailed its "futuristic and cinematic video."

ABOUT SPINEFARM:
Spinefarm represents some of the biggest and most important rock acts in the world. Founded in Finland in 1990, the label established itself as an independent powerhouse for successful European metal acts from Nightwish to Children Of Bodom. Acquired by UMG in 2002, Spinefarm Music Group is now home to a host of artists that reach millions of fans across the globe and showcases the very best in rock, punk and metal. From massive metal names such as Bullet For My Valentine (with over 3 billion streams to their name) to alt-rock legends Killing Joke and genre-benders Sleep Token, Spinefarm's artists are — and always have been —true leaders in their chosen field. The roster also includes renowned names like Atreyu, Airbourne, Saint Asonia, and While She Sleeps, as well as fast-rising young artists like Dayseeker, Dead Poet Society, Kid Kapichi, BRKN LOVE, and Creeper. Spinefarm, now flanked by associated SMG labels Candlelight (Emperor, Ihsahn, Urne) and Snakefarm (Marty Stuart, Austin Meade, The White Buffalo), has grown from its independent origins into a true global rock powerhouse.

BLACKBRIAR - RELEASE BRAND NEW SONG 'MOONFLOWER'

March 20, 2024

Today BLACKBRIAR release their brand new song 'Moonflower' featuring Marjana Seminka. After the album release of A Dark Euphony in September last year the band shows once again, that they are always working on new songs and their creativity seems to know no bounds.

Zora Cock comments:
“Moonflower tells a love story between a female vampire and a mortal girl and transports you to a bygone era where darkness and desire intertwine. It's inspired by the 19th-century gothic novel 'Carmilla', a timeless story that predates even the infamous Dracula. The song features a guest songstress Marjana Semkina, who I think is the most perfect fit for making this Moonflower an ethereal, haunting, and dark duet.”

Stream/Order the album A Dark Euphony here: https://blackbriar.bfan.link/a-dark-euphony
Watch the video for 'Moonflower' below.
Stream `Moonflower`here: https://blackbriar.bfan.link/moonflower.ema

After their successful co-headliner tour together with AD INFINITUM, BLACKBRIAR announced more European tourdates for October/November this year. BLACKBRIAR will join KAMELOT´S Awaken The World Tour as a special gusts. Together with AD INFINITUM and FROZEN CROWN they will share the stage withKAMELOT all over Europe and the UK.

The US tour together with BATTLE BEAST starts in May this year. All dates are listed below.

05/09 The Palladium, Worcester MA
05/10 Brass Monkey, Ottawa ON
05/11 Opera House, Toronto ON
05/12 House of Blues, Cleveland OH
05/14 House of Blues, Chicago IL
05/15 The Varsity Theater, Minneapolis MN
05/16 Grenada Theater, Lawrence KS
05/17 The Gothic Theatre, Denver CO
05/18 The Depot, Salt Lake City UT
05/20 The Neptune Theater, Seattle WA
05/21 The Rickshaw, Vancouver BC
05/22 Revolution Hall, Portland OR
05/24 Goldfield Trading Post, Roseville CA
05/25 The Observatory, Santa Ana CA
05/26 The Nile Theater, Phoenix AZ
05/28 Echo, Dallas TX
05/30 The Masquerade, Atlanta GA
05/31 The Underground, Charlotte NC
06/01 Baltimore Sound Stage, Baltimore MD
06/02 Gramercy Theatre, New York NY

About BLACKBRIAR:

“Some say that there is beauty in darkness - terrifying visitors, worlds far gone, gothic romances, bone-chilling legends, sin-eaters, burning hearts frozen in time, songs with a misleading voice, and a truthful whisper. This and so much more for you to discover on A Dark Euphony.” Such are the words of vocalist Zora Cock about the band’s upcoming sophomore album, set to release in fall 2023 on Nuclear Blast Records. A telling sign coming from a band who has reveled in gothic beauty and metallic darkness since their onset, spanning three EPs and a full-length album, along with long-time collaborator Joost van den Broek.

Formed in 2012 by Zora Cock, René Boxem, Bart Winters, and Frank Akkerman, they crafted their first single in 2014 with 'Ready to Kill,' but it was 2015’s second single 'Until Eternity' that truly propelled them into the scene. A sweeping track with an equally compelling and beautiful video, it continues to draw many to the act with over 20 million views since its debut. Taking advantage of the growing buzz surrounding the band, they independently recorded and released their first EP, Fractured Fairytales, as well as acquiring a second guitarist in Robin Koezen. This EP layed down an impressive foundation for the band’s ethereal and breathtaking sound and brought about new opportunities for the act, including tour dates in The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and more, where the band played alongside EPICA, HALESTORM, IN THIS MOMENT, DELAIN and MaYan.

To keep moving ahead with full control of their creative ideals, the band successfully crowdfunded their follow-up EP, We’d Rather Burn, and brought it to life in October 2018. This EP would be the first time the band worked alongside esteemed producer Joost van den Broek to arrange and produce the effort, and this fruitful collaboration allowed BLACKBRIAR’s whimsical and enigmatic sound to reach new sonic heights. Released the same day as their self-made video for 'I’d Rather Burn,' this EP showcased a stronger sense of dreamy atmosphere and brought listeners beautifully grim tales of witches, banshees, and sea sirens. In the time following, keyboardist Ruben Wijga (ex-Re-Vamp) took a larger role within the band and began playing shows, after being involved in the songwriting process since Fractured Fairytales.

A busy 2019 followed, the band released a haunting single in May entitled 'Snow White and Rose Red.' A duet with Ulli Perhonen, their take on the Grimm’s fairytale featured striking cinematic visuals to accompany the spellbinding track. Continuing to dig deeper into fairytale realms, BLACKBRIAR closed the year with their third EP, Our Mortal Remains. Ever-sharpening their intoxicating blend of storytelling and breathtaking musicianship, the EP brought about new live exposures for the act as well. Small, sold out tours with EPICA in 2019 and 2020, as well as a sold out opening for DELAIN’s Apocalypse & Chill release show in Utrecht followed, with more future plans then being put on hold due to COVID-19.

Championing their continued independence, which included everything from songwriting, maintaining their web presence, overseeing merch, as well as shooting and producing their own videos and photos, BLACKBRIAR reached out to their ever-growing and loyal fanbase for assistance to make their full-length album a reality in 2020. Fans fervently heeded the call, reaching the € 25,000 goal in under 24 hours and ending with a total of € 70,000 and achieving all five stretch goals. An impressive accomplishment for an independent act, which also showcases a strong internet presence with over 230,000 YouTube subscribers and 56.5 million channel views as well as 37.9 million Spotify streams and 275,000 monthly streamers on the platform.

Entering 2021, the band relinquished a bit of control in signing exclusively with Doomstar Bookings to help properly support their highly anticipated first full-length album, The Cause of Shipwreck, which released in April. Once again recorded with renowned producer Joost van den Broek (EPICA, AYREON, POWERWOLF) at Sandlane Recording Facilities, this release showcased the band’s continued evolution into masterfully dark gothic storytelling and theatrical aesthetics that entice you into a deadly yet spellbinding musical paradise. On the live front, launching into success with six sold out Dutch club shows, they later extended into more European territories such as Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, France, and the Czech Republic as the band moved into 2022.

Despite a very successful 2021, the band still hungered for more, unleashing their latest single, 'Fairy of the Bog' in December. A song about ‘het meisje van Yde’ (Yde girl), it’s a mixture of folklore, myth, and ancient local history wrapped into a more mystical and magical package that showcases what BLACKBRIAR does best. Due to winning ‘Drents Talent Award Culture 2021’ from ‘Stichting Kunst & Cultuur,’ BLACKBRIAR performed ‘I’d Rather Burn’ live on television together with the Dutch ‘Noordpool Orchestra in early 2022. In April, the band parted ways with founding member and bassist Frank Akkerman. Not a band to slow down, they welcomed Siebe Sol Sijpkens from The Netherlands as their new bassist. A happy and energetic performer with a lifetime of global performances, he is a welcome addition to the act as they continue to strive forward.

With their vision looking firmly into the future, with a major label behind them, they set their sights on 2023 to conjure their most deadly siren song yet. The band previously released the song 'Crimson Faces' to celebrate their partnership with Nuclear Blast Records, and now the world eagerly awaits the release of A Dark Euphony this fall. Set to contain 10 new original songs as well as a bonus track, they recently released their first single from it with 'My Soul’s Demise.' According to Zora, “We've had the pleasure of working with producer and musical genius Joost van den Broek, and we gave it our all to write this record and feel that this is our most complete, personal, and mature album to date.” With this in mind, the band launched a preorder campaign in April for the release, full of unique perks, which has been quite successful already. They have also been preparing on the road, with festival shows Wave Gotik Treffen, SummerBreeze, and Rock the Lakes in 2023, as well as being a special guest on CHARLOTTE WESSELS’s Club Tour.

With accolades behind them, such as being nominated three times for ‘Best Artist’ in EuroSonic/Noorderslag‘s Popgala Noord (2018, 2020, 2022), and continued fan support with current monthly streaming totals on YouTube and Spotify near 1.5 million streams, the world is primed and ready for a spectacular journey into darkness and beauty.

BLACKBRIAR is:
Zora Cock - VOCALS
René Boxem - DRUMS
Bart Winters - GUITARS
Robin Koezen - GUITARS
Siebe Sol Sijpkens - BASS
Ruben Wijga - KEYS

UADA Unveils New Music Video for "Retraversing the Void," Kicking Off North American Tour This Week

March 19, 2024

Enigmatic black metal masters UADA are now unveiling a mind-bending new music video for the song, "Retraversing the Void," which is taken from the band's latest full-length, 'Crepuscule Natura.' The evocative clip can be found below.

UADA comments, "Originally filmed in 2021 and then re-filmed in 2023, the story of 'Retraversing the Void' spins light on the ever-old cliche' tale of rising from the fall.

"As life is full of ups and downs, it is of utmost importance to remember our worth, dedication, and inner potential so that we may understand the universes plan in guiding us along our path.

"While it may be common to feel lost from time to time, we must know we are always where we are meant to be in order to learn from the experiences life presents.

"We hope the symbolism within provides an awakening analogy of opening our perception to the balance of all things as well as the ability to listen to the greater powers (be it the higher-self, an ancestral messenger, or perhaps a deity known as one of many gods) who often speak upon deaf ears.

"We are all the substance that is and ever was."

The video comes just in time to kick off UADA's upcoming Western U.S. tour! The band will be supporting ROTTING CHRIST in the Pacific Northwest and Canada from March 25 - April 1. UADA will be book-ending the trek with a run of headlining shows from March 22 - March 24 on the West Coast and then will hit the Midwest from April 3 - April 7. ABIGAIL WILLIAMS will be support on all dates while DEATH SUPPORT will join the final leg. The full itinerary can be found below!

In addition, UADA will also be appearing at Milwaukee Metal Fest on Friday, May 17.

'Crepuscule Natura,' was released worldwide on September 8, 2023 via Eisenwald and isavailable HERE. The album was named among the best albums of 2023 by Knotfest, This Day in Metal, Riff Riot, Metal Sucks, Metal Hammer Germany, and many others!

UADA North American Tour Dates 2024:

(w/ Abigail Williams):

03/22: Eugene, OR @ John Henry’s

03/23: Santa Cruz, CA @ The Blue Lagoon

03/24: San Francisco, CA @ Neck of the Woods

(w/ Rotting Christ + Abigail Williams):

03/25: Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom

03/26: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon

03/27: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theater

03/29: Calgary, AB @ Dickens

03/30: Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room

03/31: Regina, SK @ The Exchange

04/01: Winnipeg, MB @ Park Theater

(w/ Abigail Williams + Death Support)

04/03: Fargo, ND @ The Aquarium

04/04: Bismark, ND @ Amvets

04/05: Billings, MT @ Thirsty Street Brewing

04/06: Bozeman, MT @ Fillings Station

04/07: Missoula, MT @ Monks Bar

U.S. Festival Appearances:

05/17: Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest

Ever since the cloaked Pacific Northwest band appeared on the music radar, UADA has always been electrified by both polar worlds. Their echelon was stark and meaningful. Within the stretch of three albums as well as dense and triumphant live shows across the globe, they have not only spiked the map of extreme metal music but their unrelenting touring schedule and unbridled will to push forward into new horizons has also earned them a reception in all the extremes imaginable, be it worship or spite.

Five sonic vessels form the nucleus of 'Crepuscule Natura,' and within it`s 41 minutes, the record easily creates a sonic and aesthetic bridge between the band`s debut, 'Devoid of Light' (2016), and their sophomore effort 'Cult of a Dying Sun' (2018), only to forge onward upon the relentless path set forth with 'Djinn' (2020). Here, a more refined and muscular, yet no less melodic stronghold awaits. On 'Crepuscule Natura,' UADA provides all their memorable hooks, tasteful leads, and riding blasts in their distinct style, balancing their epic surging melodies with powerful spurts of aggression. Just like the band's smoke-heavy shows, the momentum and emphasis of their craft always stays grandiose, mythical, and triumphant – all the while making sure to birth a couple of new fan favorites and soon-to-be staple live songs.

'Crepuscule Natura', once again graced by the artwork of legendary Kris Verwimp and photography by Peter Beste, shows UADA on fire to unleash the marrow of black heavy metal.

Album Credits:

All music by UADA

Mixed and Mastered by Jake Superchi at Obsidian Spells

Album Cover & Moon emblem by Kris Verwimp

Photography by Peter Beste

Layout by Valkenstijn

Released via Eisenwald

Follow/Stream UADA:

Digital album released on September 8, 2023

CD formats to be shipped on or around September 15, 2023

Vinyl formats to be shipped on or around November 3, 2023

NONEXISTER Release Debut Album + Share Video For "Storm"

March 17, 2024

NONEXISTER have released their debut album Demons on, March 15

To mark the occasion, the Zurich based quintet has unveiled the video for their new single, "Storm," a song which encompasses everything that defines NONEXISTER's music: It's dark, intense, and a little dystopian, featuring an infectious guitar riff and plenty of electronic noise.

Sound engineer and co-band leader Marco Neeser says, "In production, I first created a noisy industrial atmosphere to set the mood for the song, and then I let this emblematic riff hit, which drives the song."

"Storm" highlights the rising global threat of right-wing extremism.

Singer Nik Leuthold states, "What's happening right now sometimes feels like a global re-run of 1930s Europe. It's frightening. However, in my lyrics, I'm always interested in the bigger picture — in this case extremism and sectarianism in general. It's too easy to simply blame it on frustration; convenient lies, victimhood, and self-righteousness are attractive to many people. But I'm sure most of them would be scared to death if it actually came to the point they are currently shouting about."

Since their first single, "Your Pain Up My Veins," the band has consistently released captivating, cinematic videos, winning numerous awards including the California Music Video & Film Award, the Global Music Award and the Europe Music Award, among others. Their latest offering is just as compelling as its predecessors: you can watch the video for "Storm" here.

Leuthold says of the video, "I really wanted to make this video with Dave Bullivant after seeing how nuanced and multi-layered he can be with a given theme on 'How Do You Dare.' When it comes to right-wing extremism, it can very quickly become trite or cliché, but once again he has managed to convey the song's subject matter in a very subtle way. Yet he has illustrated the underlying threat so powerfully with his stark black and white images, which sometimes remind me of the movie Sin City. I think Dave has once again created an extraordinary work of art."

Director Dave Bullivant says, "This track speaks so eloquently on the dangers of rising extremism in its various guises and how easily people can be drawn into a situation that they may later regret. The lure of community, power and acceptance can so often override one's sense of morality. I wanted to abstract this idea and portray the inner conflict of two friends encountering a roaring mob. We shot using a pretty unique camera, there are only two of this model that have been modified to only shoot black and white. We then took this unique camera and did something no one has ever done before, and shot the final scene using only UltraViolet light. The resulting image is truly unique and quite beautiful."

After six singles, the band is proud to present their work in its entirety. Demons is a collection of the first creative phase as NONEXISTER, the essence of all that inspired them from the beginning. The band is beyond excited that this twisted, gnarly beauty is finally going out into the world.

Leuthold says, "I'm over the moon that our debut album Demons is finally out. It's been a long journey and I'm very proud of the result. Working with Marco has been a great stroke of luck, taking us both into worlds we wouldn't have gotten to on our own. And so many great people have helped shape the final product, tweaking every detail so that this baby is now a true beauty."

Neeser shares his enthusiasm, saying, "We are happy to finally announce the release of our debut album Demons. We have been working on it for several years and are proud of the result. It's dark, disturbing, dynamic, full of contrasts, and deeply emotional."

Demons will be released via the band's own label, with distribution via The Orchard, digitally, on CD and on transparent vinyl (which includes a
bonus track). You can purchase here.

NIGHT VERSES Completes Their Sonic Odyssey 'Every Sound Has A Color In The Valley Of Night' Out Now Via Equal Vision Records

March 17, 2024

"Night Verses still shreds" - Metal Injection

"re-establishes the band as one of the most rightfully revered among progressive metal." - Knotfest.com

"a beast-mode reintroduction to venerated guitarist Nick DePirro." - Guitar World

"a phenomenal return from one of our generation’s most thrilling progressive rock acts" - Boolin Tunes

"Night Verses is still the gold standard for technical instrumental music" - Everything Is Noise

"Every Sound Has A Color In The Valley Of Night further cements Night Verses as one of the standout acts in instrumental metal today" - Metal Storm

"Finely tuned and expertly executed, instrumental metal has long needed a true champion.....NIGHT VERSES is that champion and Every Sound… is that proof." - Distorted Sound

Prog-metal visionaries Night Verses have today unveiled their complete double album 'Every Sound Has A Color In The Valley Of Night', now available in full via Equal Vision Records. The release of Part 2 concludes the band's expansive musical journey that began with the lauded release of Part 1 last September with the full album now being available across all streaming platforms HERE

In addition to the full album, Night Verses have also dropped visualizer for focus track 'Plague Dancer' (watch below) which follows the momentum of their recent hit 'Glitching Prisms', which featured guest vocals from Incubus’s Brandon Boyd. The album's intricate soundscape is further enriched by collaborations with Justin Chancellor of Tool, Author and Punisher, and Anthony Green of Circa Survive.

Night Verses share: “We are beyond grateful to finally have this album out as a whole. We spent 5 years writing it and covered a lot of territory that was completely new for us, especially when it came to making each collaboration unique. Ultimately it was meant to be enjoyed as one piece, so we are excited for our fans to hear this body of work start to finish in its entirety. This one specifically sounds best in motion: Driving through the desert, skating by the beach, etc. We definitely recommend committing to the full hour completely immersed with headphones or in a decent car stereo, it’s not intended to be listened to on an iPhone speaker."

'Every Sound Has A Color In The Valley Of Night' is a reflection of Night Verses’ dedication to pushing the envelope and creating a fully immersive listening experience. Fans can now explore the depth and breadth of the band's ambitious auditory experience in full for the first time .

Listen to 'Every Sound Has A Color In The Valley Of Night' now on all major streaming platforms, and let the music transport you to new dimensions of prog-metal excellence.

Night Verses will be hitting the road in support of their new album. Starting with Kill Iconic Festival in California on March 23rd, they then head to Europe to support Tool throughout May and June, return to the US to play Post Festival in Indiana in July, then head to the UK to play Arctangent Festival in August. For full dates and routing head to nightverses.com

ABOUT NIGHT VERSES:

Hailing from Fullerton, CA, NIGHT VERSES first galvanized listeners with their 2012 EP ‘Out Of The Sky’, merging prog, alt-metal, post-rock and ambient electronica into their own intoxicating strain of cinematic metal.

They continued to hone their bold songwriting and genre-bending musicianship on their debut full-length, 2014’s ‘Lift Your Existence’. After the mass critical acclaim that followed, they returned in 2016 with the full-length ‘Into The Vanishing Light’ produced by legendary producer Ross Robinson (Slipknot, At The Drive In). The album was the band’s first release after signing with Equal Vision Records, and marked their last album with a vocalist.

The band released their first instrumental album 2018, with the critically acclaimed ‘From The Gallery Of Sleep’, which cemented them as fearless, genre-defying innovators. Dubbed “The Salvador Dali of prog-metal” by Noisey / Vice, the album was hailed as "boundary-breaking prog" (Revolver), "ambitious and creative" (Exclaim!) and "a layered prog masterpiece" (Distorted Sound).

Now after a 5-year wait that's felt like an eternity, NIGHT VERSES are back to reclaim their rightful place at the forefront of progressive heavy music. With over 15 million career streams and unanimously glowing critical praise for their first four releases, the stage is set for NIGHT VERSES to ascend to even greater heights.

NECROPHOBIC Shares New Music Video for "Mirrors of a Thousand Lakes," New Album Out Now

March 17, 2024

"Necrophobic’s take on black metal has always skewed more melodic and surprisingly accessible compared to their contemporaries. While the black metal influence is there, hints of Iron Maiden and Mercyful Fate still peek through..." - Metal Insider

"...the strongest album that Necrophobic has released during their late-career surge." - Angry Metal Guy

"ln The Twilight Grey' will still conjure demons and summon darkness, but within a world of deep textures and deeper thoughts. Their best album since the debut..." - Blabbermouth

"...fast, fierce, and yet surprisingly melodic." - Bravewords

ORDER // STREAM // DOWNLOAD

Swedish blackened death metal masters NECROPHOBIC are pleased to finally share their tenth studio album, which officially hits the streets and streaming services everywhere today, March 15, via Century Media Records!

To celebrate this release, NECROPHOBIC is now sharing a brand new music video for the single "Mirrors of a Thousand Lakes." The footage was taken from one of the band's rare club shows at M.A.U. Club in Germany back in January 2024 by Paloosa Productions. The performance had such a positive impact on the band that they decided to preserve it and turn it into a “road video” that happened in the magic of the moment that evening. Watch it Below.

'In the Twilight Grey' is now available HERE and can be found in the following formats:

Ltd. Deluxe Gatefold combat green 2LP & LP-Booklet & Poster incl. 2 bonus tracks (1.000x)

Gatefold black LP

Gatefold dark green LP (300x)

Ltd. CD Mediabook (comes with a special, extended booklet and 2 bonus tracks)

Standard CD Jewelcase

Digital album

Enigmatically titled 'In the Twilight Grey,' NECROPHOBIC’s tenth studio album immediately asserts its separation from everything that has gone before. Colder and more biting than recent efforts, the album is full of brutish metal songs, hewn from unnamed obsidian horrors.

NECROPHOBIC has always been a dynamic and daring band. 'In the Twilight Grey' hammers the Swedish blackened death metal masters' boldness home via some of the most hard-hitting and direct songs they have ever recorded. Equally, the new album is home to several songs that push NECROPHOBIC’s music down strange, new avenues. Fueled by the dark side, lead guitarist Sebastian Ramstedt understands the importance of retaining the essence of the band’s early days, even as the means of expression continues to evolve.

Yet again 'In the Twilight Grey' was produced, mixed and mastered by Fredrik Folkare (of death metal icons Unleashed) at Chrome Studios, Stockholm and engineered in close collaboration by Folkare and the band themselves. For the artwork they teamed up with Jens Rydén, another likeminded and highly regarded institution from the Swedish metal scene.

With over thirty years of active, nefarious service under their spikes and bulletbelts, NECROPHOBIC are undisputed legends of the death and black metal scene. Formed in 1989 by drummer Joakim Sterner, the Stockholm blackhearts propagated a singular and fearless vision from the very start.

Eschewing the self-conscious amateurism and primitive sonics that many of their peers held dear, NECROPHOBIC established a bold and vivid identity of their own, conjuring a densely melodic, but endlessly wicked take on macabre extreme metal that countless lesser bands have since emulated.

You can take a deep dive into their history via the rereleases of their entire back catalogue that Century Media Records made available in 2022 HERE.

Line-Up:

Johan Bergebäck - Rhythm guitar

Joakim Sterner - Drums

Sebastian Ramstedt - Lead guitar

Anders Strokirk - Vocals

Tobias Cristiansson - Bass

Cover Artist + Photos: Jens Rydén

Production, Mixing, Mastering: Fredrik Folkare @ Chrome Studios

Engineering: Fredrik Folkare + Necrophobic

Links:

Windwaker Drop "Enter the Wall" EP + Share "The Wall" Video

March 17, 2024

Australia's WINDWAKER — vocalist Liam Guinane, guitarist Jesse Crofts, bassist Indey Salvestro, drummer Chris Lalic, and synths/samples specialist Connor Robins — have dropped the new, four-song EP Enter the Wall today, February 15, via Fearless Records. Get it here.

The band has shared the video for "The Wall." Watch it Below.

"The Wall" is a fusion of technical guitars with sporadic synths that makes this song so unsettling yet satisfying. The song is built around a southern hip-hop groove led with a mixture of gravely raps and manic screams, evolving around a backdrop of unrelenting metal passages. The track is as fun as it is fierce.

Lyrically, the song is a "reference to staring absently into a void," the band states. Windwaker continue. "It's the moment when reality crumbles away around you, leaving you with nothing but your own thoughts. Visually, it paints the picture of a person sitting in a dimly lit room at night as a black hole mercilessly sucks away the environment around them piece by piece. The main hook repeats twice in the same way a thought circulates in your mind. It always leads back to the same conclusion, setting off that thought again, and again, and again..."

Windwaker released their Fearless Records debut Love Language in 2022.

Stay tuned for even more new music from the band... because it's coming.

Chicago rocker LEON FREAR 'Wild Rice' album now out on vinyl. Watch the videos for 'A Murder of Crows' and 'She Fed Me Water'

March 16, 2024

"Frear has a way of telling stories that draw you in, bringing to the surface a multitude of common points, memories and feelings that resonate with the listener... Leon Frear lives to tell a resounding tale through gifted songwriting and clever story-telling" ~ The Spill Magazine

"Track of the Day. The way he tells the story makes it seem like he and the listener are commiserating together... great story" ~ Chasing Destino

"With a unmistakeable voice deserving of becoming a regular fixture in the mind-memory of music lovers everywhere... catchy and contemplative, showcasing clever lyrics channeled through his smooth and deep timbre... an invested labor of love" ~ Rock n Roll Biz

"Frear has a voice which somewhat recalls Marty Willson-Piper of The Church fame and his side project Nocturum... This is something for fans of Nick Cave and related" ~ Side-Line Magazine

"The combination of evocative lyrics and a dynamic musical backdrop creates an immersive experience, inviting listeners to delve into the complexities of love, longing, and self-discovery" ~ Skylight Webzine

Dubbing his brand of post-alternative music “vocabulary rock”, Frear aims to shift the emphasis away from the man and towards the music and lyrics, while inviting the listener to commiserate together through this exploration of grief, depression and sadness.

"I try to put less emphasis on sticking to one type of music and more emphasis on crafting songs with strong lyrics. So I’m really just trying to write in a way that the music compliments the lyrical meaning. And I think that can make pinning down my musical style a little more difficult. Broadly speaking, I cut my teeth on the post-punk guitar records of the late 90’s and early aughts and I think those influences still come through in the way I write music," says Leon Frear.

"Musically, I grew up listening to a lot of punk and indie bands. And the biggest influences for me are people I can admire for the way they behave and the way they treat people. Vanessa from Pylon, punk icons like Roger Miller and Patti Smith. Or bands who have had honorable careers like Fugazi or REM. These are the artists who I strive the most to be like."

The 'Wild Rice' album is out now, available digitally from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. Also pressed on double vinyl for maximum fidelity, this first run pressing is limited to 100 copies.

CREDITS
Music and lyrics written by Leon Frear
Recorded by Leon Frear in his Chicago home studio
Mastering by Adam Boose at Cauliflower Studios
Vocals and instruments performed by Leon, except
Faye Whitt - backup vocals on 'Murder of Crows'
Front cover collage by Faye Whitt
Ronald Grandpey - Director / animator for 'Secret Second Moon' video
Artist photos by Jeremy Glickstein

Liverpool-London power pop artist JAMES CLARKE FIVE releases loaded 'Zoom and The Gadflies' album

March 16, 2024

"Sounds like XTC had they taken a more glam rock route... Man, this is pop perfection. And then some" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"Wondrous, positive and generally upbeat... Pure, perfect power pop… no exaggeration" ~ The Spill Magazine

"With fantastic diversity, wrapped in a tight layer of suave musical mastery, James Clarke Five's brand of music melds the best of rock and Brit pop, imbued with spirits past and present" ~ Amplify Music Mag

"Infectious energy... successfully marries retro vibes with a modern twist, offering listeners a refreshing take on the glam rock era" ~ Skylight Webzine

"One outgoing manipulation of pleasure, the kind of track that has inhibitions wandering as you openly bounce down the street with it" ~ Ringmaster Review

"Some kinda locked-in-his-bedroom genius... very listenable pop" ~ Dagger Zine

UK power pop artist James Clarke Five presents the album 'Zoom and The Gadflies', released via UK label Favourite Recordings, an 11-track collection of clever power pop with story-driven lyrics. Mixing classic baroque pop with strong melodies and distinctive chord changes, his melodic guitar-driven sound brings overtones of glam rock and psychedelia.

Now based in London, James Clarke Five is the solo project of James Hughes, who is perhaps best known as keyboardist and vocalist for Liverpool 80's new wave band The Cherry Boys. Contemporaries of Echo & The Bunnymen and The Teardrop Explodes, its members also played with The LA’s, Cast, The Icicle Works and Lightning Seeds.

With clear nods to XTC, Adam and the Ants and Joe Meek, this album was previewed by the singles 'Gadfly Groove' (on the personal transformation of a quiet introvert to an outgoing persona), '(Who's Been On The) Big Rock Candy' (about a couple who pursue increasingly daring deeds to a pounding, feedback-driven backdrop), and 'Ghost' (bittersweet reflections on childhood and the passing of time with a melodious, atmospheric, harpsichord-driven sound).

At the age of 12, James picked up a guitar, which he has scarcely put down since. Following The Cherry Boys, Hughes was a founder member of Exhibit B, who released the cult classic album 'Playing Dead' and several singles.

Upon moving to London in the early 2000s, Hughes launched James Clarke Five with the barnstorming single 'Get Out Of Bed' and later found success with his song 'Sexbombe Uber Alles', the main theme of the film 'Last Shop Standing'. Their most recent albums 'Underneath The Lemon Tree' (2021) and 'ParlourSounds' (2018), released by iconic Canadian label The Beautiful Music, garnered rave reviews. His music has also appeared in the film 'Soundtrack to Sixteen' and has amassed over 1.25 million Spotify streams to date.

"This album was written and recorded over a period of two and-a-half years. As it progressed song by song, I found that it was showing a common theme inspired by the music that excited me as a child: people like Adam and The Ants, and also the likes of T Rex and the 'production style' of the Glam Rock era," explains James Hughes.

"So it gathered pace in that direction, which for me was a very exciting, if initially subconscious, development. But then all my music is in some way an homage to the music I love, with of course my personal quirks in the mix - for example the penultimate song Buddy and Joe which is my take to the music of Joe Meek, Telstar etc. On the other hand, D'You Not Think is inspired by psychedelic-era fairgrounds and steam organs (albeit with a 'political' lyric) and for me this song personifies the great fun I had putting this album together."

Recorded in his home studio in London, James produced and mastered this album. He performed all instruments and vocals with the exception of Mack The Sax, who plays saxophone on 'Gadfly Groove' and Karen Bates, who provides backing vocals on 'It's Been So Long'.

As of March 15, 'Zoom and The Gadflies' album is available from fine digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple and Bandcamp.

THE ARSON CHOIR PARTNER WITH OUTBURN TO RELEASE THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR THEIR EIGHTEEN VISIONS COVER OF 'TOWER OF SNAKES'

March 16, 2024

Southern Californian mathcore quintet THE ARSON CHOIR blends nostalgic and modern riffs to create their raw and organic sound. An intense live show filled with dissonant chords and creative melodies showcases a new style of fast and loud. Today, the band pays homage to EIGHTEEN VISIONS' who heavily influenced their sound. Head to Outburn.com to watch the performance video directed by Gene Ramirez for their cover of 'Tower Of Snakes'.

Check out the music video below.

Stream the 'Tower Of Snakes' cover on all platforms now at: https://lnk.to/towerofsnakes

The 'Tower Of Snakes' cover was recorded by Michael Eichstedts at Summit Studios while mixing and mastering were handled by Jeff Dunne (MAKE THEM SUFFER, ICE NINE KILLS, and KNOCKED LOOSE). The cover is a variation of the artwork created by Rai Ciego.

Catch THE ARSON CHOIR live on the following dates:
03/24/2024 Phoenix, AZ - Yucca Tap Room
09/13-15/2024 Portland, OR - Bridge City Fest

The Gentlemen of THE ARSON CHOIR are:
Phillip Penegar | Vocals
Marc Motley | Rhythm Guitar
Eric Carrizales | Lead Guitar
Eric Whitt | Bass Guitar & Backing Vocals

Order Invisible Monsters in the format your choice here:
https://www.waragainstrecords.com/store

More information:
Website: www.thearsonchoir.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheArsonChoir
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thearsonchoir
Bandcamp: www.thearsonchoir.bandcamp.com
Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/2ir53QtigznLj1maMuVeNH

VLTIMAS Streaming New Album

March 16, 2024

The members of VLTIMAS are all legends in their own right. David Vincent blessed the sick for Morbid Angel. Rune Eriksen made grand declarations of war as Mayhem's blasphemous axe man. No one is more vile than Flo Mounier, who's been drumming for Cryptopsy since their earliest exhumations of the underground. But on their second album together, VLTIMAS are mightier than ever.

EPIC comes out this Friday, March 15. But you can listen to the whole album today on Season of Mist's YouTube channel in partnership with Decibel magazine.

Listen to EPIC: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/vltimas-epic-premiere

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

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

VLTIMAS have so much history under their bullet belts that some gatekeepers may have wondered if there were any new realms for them to conquer. After all, their first album was voted album of the year by BangerTV.

And yet - their new album boldy declares that these devils aren't content with merely living among the lords of chaos. Though written amongst the many comforts of Vincent's Texas ranch (long walks, plenty of booze) EPIC is dark, extreme and unrelenting. Everyone gets to flex their muscles. Rune rips off fiery riffs from all angles on blistering lead single "Miserere". Though it starts off as a slow burn, Flo blazes through "Scorcher" with blast beats that are so wickedly precise they belong in a museum. David's growl could still summon underground hordes to the alter of madness, but "Invictus" rolls out a new style of death metal vocals.

"I'll not be blinded and I'll never be for sale", he sings with a grizzled battle cry.

But EPIC amounts to a heck of a lot more than just the sum of VLTIMAS' devilish talents. It's a testament to everything these underground heroes have stood for the past 30 years: crushing speed, surgical precession, strength in one's own convictions.

Early Praise for EPIC

"VLTIMAS could hardly fail, given the pedigree of everyone involved, but this suggests that Vincent, Eriksen and Mounier are not leaving anything to chance. EPIC live up to its name and then some" - Blabbermouth (8/10)

"An album that is so varied that it could be heard a dozen times yet not be completely comprehended...it is sure to stand as one of the most original studio outings of the year" - Sonic Perspectives(8.9/10)

"A smooth and dynamic ride...you almost feel like you're listening to the soundtrack to a dark, theatrical play. It has that epic-ness to it, pun intended" - A&P Reacts

"Evil D has blessed us again with the fruits of one of his more recent ventures....a very solid sophomore effort for VLTIMAS" - Metal Injection (8/10)

"EPIC lives up to its title, treading the line between imperious grandeur and ridiculous pomposity" - Metal Hammer (4/5)

"A mix of black and death metal among other influences, EPIC represents a major victory for VLTIMAS' expanding team" - Metal Insider

"Any time you have a chorus with 'Die, Die, Die' - come on - that is classic" - Teeth of Divine

Extreme metal powerhouse VLTIMAS (pronounced 'uhl-tuh-mas') assault metaldom once more with their highly-anticipated sophomore album, EPIC, through Season of Mist. Featuring Norwegian guitarist Rune "Blasphemer" Eriksen (ex-Mayhem, RUÏM), American vocalist David Vincent (ex-Morbid Angel), and Canadian drummer Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy), the multinational quintet, rounded out by Dutch bassist Ype TVS (ex-Dodecahedron) and Portuguese guitarist João Duarte (Corpus Christii), continue to venture down their path. Moored by strength and integrity, VLTIMAS fortified their signature with wicked invention, as applauded by Decibel Magazine, BangerTV, Louder, and many others, on their debut, Something Wicked Marches In (2019). Singles "Miserere," "Scorcher," and "Invictus" showcase a band of musicians at the top of their game, united in their pursuit of oneness.

"We wrote every bit of EPIC together at my ranch in Dime Box, Texas," offers Vincent. "The writing sessions were as organic as they could be. There were times when, at the end of the night, Rune would take his guitar and play something ridiculous. Flo would play something even more ridiculous on top of it. I'd say to the guys, 'I need to capture this.' So, the magic [of VLTIMAS] is being in the same room together, discussing, playing, and recording music and everything else we're doing together. We have unbelievable camaraderie."

While the members of VLTIMAS are not atavists, their preferred creative methods are time-tested and battle-hardened. Technology has its place, but the group thrive when they're together, not separated by the world. Eriksen, renowned as a riff innovator, is more effective when he's got a highly capable sideman like Vincent or Mounier, whose drumming in Cryptopsy and his celebrated instructional Extreme Metal Drumming 101 DVD has proven to be a no-limits player, by his side. Whether it's the moody, angular attack of "Miserere," the wicked groove of "Mephisto Manifesto," or the dark fury of "Nature's Fangs," the chemistry and enterprise of VLTIMAS is undeniable.

"The main goal [of VLTIMAS] is to be real," Eriksen reveals. "To channel the very moment, to let true inspiration out. I don't believe I ever set myself a goal on what an album should or needs to sound like before I or we write it because that means I have to compromise during the process. For EPIC, we focused on more direct songs, trimming the fat, as opposed to Something Wicked Marches In, which had a progressive and 'playful' flair."

VLTIMAS was a profane concept—a constellation of riffs against a modest frame—when formed by Eriksen in 2015. After departing Mayhem in 2008 and putting his gothic doom outfit Ava Inferi to rest in 2013, the Norwegian's fingers still itched with infernal fury. VLTIMAS was his vent, and when Mounier and Vincent joined, he finally had the cadre of professionals to make it a reality. Together, they devised complementary schemes and themes rooted in rightness. In a world gone mad, VLTIMAS had a vision. On Something Wicked Marches In, they commanded attention with metaphors about the apocalypse, the ancient goddess Lilith, and truth. Lyrically, EPICspears into the very nucleus of strength through Vincent's brio of double entendre and clever wordsmithing. The songs are designed to be heard, read, and interpreted—there are no shortcuts.

"Everything we're doing and messaging is about strength and honor," says Vincent. "These are the fundamentals that I incorporate into my life, which I believe in. I want to share with others, hoping they'll incorporate strength and honor into their lives. I wouldn't say I like spelling lyrics out. I use a lot of double meanings on purpose because I want to inspire the listener to think. I'm not a short attention span guy, and I don't appreciate it. EPIC is holistic and meant to be experienced that way."

EPIC was recorded by producer Jaime Gomez Arellano (Paradise Lost, Grave Miasma) with engineer Jonathan Mazzeo (First Fragment, Sickening) at Arda Recorders in Porto, Portugal. VLTIMAS tracked the album throughout May 2023. Arellano also handled the mix and master. Like everything the band does, the main goal was to be honest. The maxim of no sample replacement or re-amping—EPICwas captured on outboard gear—was adhered to and enjoyed by the team. The result is a sonic expression that sounds like nothing else. From the crushing title track to the epic musicality of closer "Spoils of War," EPIC is an absolute beast.

"Stress, long walks, too much alcohol, yet very focused once in the recording mode," Eriksen says of the sessions. "We booked a month, but somehow, that flew by instantly. We worked up until the very end. I even added a few solos at my local Soundscape Studio in Almada, Portugal. Art unfolds, and once you think you are done, there's always another idea popping up."

VLTIMAS brought Italian artist Daniele Valeriani (Mayhem, Unanimated) to visualize EPIC. The aesthetic, as illuminated by music and message, was iconic boldness. The three-eagle head crest with three different crowns, accompanied by transfigured symbols of the Passion and the "impossible triangle," projects effortlessly. In EPIC, the group will dominate. There's no escape from "Miserere," "Mephisto Manifesto," "Scorcher," and "Invictus." Together, they thrust, by resolve and inventiveness, VLTIMAS into the uppermost echelons of extreme metal.

"[EPIC is] old meets contemporary, a symbiosis of all the great things we love about extreme metal," offers Eriksen. "All combined into one album."

"I want to be as emotional and honest [with VLTIMAS]," Vincent adds. "I want to tell stories; I want to have the themes that appeal to me; I want to have some messaging that someone can take away, in this case, strength. EPIC is strength."

Lineup
David Vincent - Vocals
Rune Blasphemer Eriksen - Guitars
Flo Mounier - Drums
Ype TVS - Bass
João Duarte - Guitars

Recording studio
ARDA Recorders

Producer
Jamie Gomez Arellano

Sound engineer
Jonathan Mazzeo

Mixing and mastering engineer
Jaime Gomez Arellano

Mixing and mastering studio
Arda Recorders, Orgone Studio

Cover art
Daniele Valeriani

Additional artwork and layout
Adrien Bousson

Biography
Chris Dick

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

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

Links:
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/vltimas/1445457453
Bandcamp: https://vltimas.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vltimas/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vltimas/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0kz64zyv2xtkdhboztpdwa
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/vltimas?lang=en

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Skull Gold
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Dracula
12" Picture Vinyl

SINGER, SONGWRITER AND ACTRESS, MAYA J, UNLEASHES SASSY NEW POP TRACK “PRINCESS” ON HER BIRTHDAY

March 15, 2024

Maya J, the dynamic artist known for her prowess in acting, songwriting, and musical composition, has unveiled her newest musical masterpiece, "Princess." Released on her birthday, this sassy mid-tempo

Pop-R&B-trap fusion is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with its infectious beats and empowering lyrics. Fans and critics alike have already heralded "Princess" as a "Certified Pop Banger," perfectly suited for those embracing their confident era, and some even say it’s 100% HBCU-ready for the field and band.

Presented by Glitter Rain Entertainment, Maya J's RIAA-member record label that she has been operating since 2014, "Princess" marks another milestone in her musical journey. As both the creator and performer, Maya J infuses the track with her trademark style, seamlessly blending pop sensibilities with elements of R&B and trap. "Princess" boasts Maya J's signature violin tricks woven throughout the recording, showcasing her multifaceted talent. Notably, the strings and violin showcased in the song are performed live by Maya J herself, offering listeners a rare glimpse into her instrumental prowess.

Describing her vision of a princess, Maya J shares, "A graceful, poised, & classy young lady. Charitable and/or accomplished. Amiable. Defends and protects herself as well as others; her kindness shall not be taken for weakness." Through her music, Maya J not only entertains but also imparts valuable insights on strength, grace, and self-assurance. The release of "Princess" follows the success of Maya J's previous single, "Chills," which quickly garnered acclaim and landed a spot on Apple Music's Best New Music Playlist. With each release, Maya J continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, blending her background as a violinist with her lifelong passion for music to create truly harmonious compositions.

MORE INFO:
Maya Jenkins has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence in her craft, both in music and acting. A product of a New York/Los Angeles acting conservatory and training at renowned LA actor studios, Maya J's dedication to her artistry is evident in every project she undertakes. Her musical journey began with the debut single "Symptoms of You" in 2016, followed by a series of successful releases. Maya J's artistic achievements include the well-received "Come Find Me" and "Like You," with the latter showcasing her skills not only as a songwriter but also as a director and co-producer of the accompanying music video. Maya J's creative contributions extend beyond her solo career; her song "Tell Me" was selected for the season 2 promotional trailer of ABC Family’s hit series, “Famous in Love” in 2018.

CONNECT WITH MAYA J:

ABORTED - Open The Vault Of Horrors + Release Music Video For 'Condemned To Rot (feat. Francesco Paoli)'

March 15, 2024

One day before the kickoff of their European tour, ABORTED open the Vault of Horrors as the new album of death metal's finest finally sees the light of the day.
Ten ferocious, gut-wrenching extreme metal slashers await you in this cabinet of horror movie classics. ABORTED invited the crème de la crème of the heavy music scene to the party, and on each track of the album you will find a different guest vocalist – diving down into the dark abyss of horror movie culture.
So sit back, grab a snack, and crawl down into the Vault of Horrors. Order your copy now:
https://aborted.bfan.link/vault-of-horrors

But that's not the end of the show for today. Fresh from the grave, the living dead are about to return (again). Feast your eyes on the music video for 'Condemned To Rot' here, featuring FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE's Francesco Paoli:

SPOKEN New Album 'Reflection' Out Now Via XOVR Records. New Track "In The Dark" Also Released

March 15, 2024

Today, Spoken celebrates an impressive milestone with the release of their 10th studio album and their first in 7 years, 'Reflection', via XOVR Records, the recently launched label co-founded by Korn’s Brian 'Head' Welch. Alongside the album, the band has unveiled focus track, "In The Dark", a further testament to Spoken's enduring sound and creative vision, which comes accompanied by an official music video. Listen to the full album HERE and watch the video below.

Frontman Matt Baird expresses his excitement: "It’s finally here! Our new record 'Reflection' is out. We’re so excited for you to hear this collection of songs, and have the opportunity to play them on the road. Thank you for listening."

Brian 'Head' Welch speaks to the band's enduring legacy: "Spoken is a band with a great story, passionate tenacity and an impeccable track record. It’s been seven long years since their last release, and I’m confident 'Reflection' will completely satisfy the die-hard Spoken fans while gaining many more."

The album is available now on all streaming platforms, and the music video for "In The Dark" can be viewed on the band's official YouTube channel.

'Reflection' marks a significant milestone for Spoken, coming seven years after their last album. With an intriguing blend of melody, aggression, thought-provoking lyrics, dynamic guitar riffs, and meticulously crafted drums, the album emerges not just as a culmination of Spoken's artistry, honed over two decades. It's a sonic mirror that reflects the band’s growth and the connection they share with their fans. It's an exploration of the journey of life, a testament to resilience and the power of moving forward with hope.

Fans can gain intimate insight into the band's journey as Baird joins Welch in conversation for XOVR Record's 'Artist Spotlight' series, now streaming on the XOVR Records YouTube and can be watched below.

Spoken are

Matt Baird

J.R. Bareis

Dylan Levernoch

Jared Wisner