POLYCHUCK ANNOUNCES NEW SINGLE, "THE CYCLONE” AND MUSICAL COLLABORATION WITH DEREK SHERINIAN AND SIMON PHILLIPS OUT Now

The musically eclectic composer and guitarist, Thomas Polychuck – who is best known as simply Polychuck – will be returning Friday, June 7th with his latest offering, a single entitled "The Cyclone.” 

This progressive rock track, infused with a fusion rock flavor, features legendary drummer Simon Phillips and acclaimed keyboardist Derek Sherinian. 

The song is now available on all major streaming platforms here: https://earache.lnk.to/TheCyclone

"The Cyclone" showcases Polychuck's exceptional guitar work, dynamic rhythms, and powerful melodies. The collaboration with Phillips (known for his work with Toto and Jeff Beck) and Sherinian (former Dream Theater keyboardist) adds an extraordinary dimension to the track. 
 
"I am incredibly excited to share 'The Cyclone' with the world," said Polychuck. "Working with Simon and Derek has been an absolute honor. Their contributions have brought a new level of energy and passion to the song." 
 
Thomas Polychuck featuring Simon Phillips & Derek Sherinian - The Cyclone video Below.

A great guitar shredder since the age of only 13, Polychuck is now an innovative and ever-maturing singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and high profile guitar coach who's ready to take the rock world by storm. And "The Cyclone" showcases Polychuck's talents even further. 

Americana-Southern Rocker JC Miller shares hearty new single 'Before Nightfall'

"Candid and catchy, this riveting and memorable music takes us to another time and place. With its frank lyrics, infectious melody, and pure Southern rock grit, this is a must-listen, packing an emotional punch and showcasing impressive musical talent... has many of the elements that allowed such artists as Wilco and Ryan Adams to transcend legendary status in the underground music community" ~ Amplify Music Magazine


Americana / southern rock stalwart JC Miller presents his new single 'Before Nightfall', released via American indie imprint Tilt Records. The Detroit-born guitarist and songwriter, now based in Southern California, has always been a searcher, long driven and inspired by vintage Americana. On this new offering, he explores the atmosphere and mood of history in a tremendously catchy track.

Evoking a grounded sense of place through his music, Miller's music has a Southern-fried edge and a transportive authenticity. He makes songs that feel at home in neon-lit diners, long highway drives, desert expanses, and sun-soaked small towns.

A prolific artist, his output is a product of his partnership and friendship with iconic musician-producer Marty Rifkin, known for his work with Tom Petty, Glen Campbell and Jewel, and also as a member of Bruce Springsteen's The Sessions Band on pedal steel guitar.

"The lyrics for 'Before Nightfall' are rooted in The Santa Fe Trails Diaries. I do a lot of deep-dive research for the themes in the songs, mostly in the history department. I try to make the songs land “vintage on arrival -- inevitable rather than arbitrary” – couched in real history, even though I may have to imagine and guess," explains JC Miller.

"In The Santa Fe Diaries, there is a section described in detail with a looming storm in the distance – it was so visceral and immediate, I was enraptured. Felt like I was there even though it was centuries ago. The writing allowed me to travel through time. The starkness of the diary entries brought real lost events to contemporary life".

Creating music for wanderers, Miller pays homage to his guitar and songwriting heroes, inspired by timeless artists like Neil Young, Leon Russell and The Band as much as the unfussy yet powerful prose of writers like Larry McMurtry, Ernest Hemingway and Cormac McCarthy.

“I’m not trying to hide my sources. I’m trying to add footnotes, carry on the southern and western, southwestern frame of mind," says JC Miller.

Under his solo moniker, making music is a labor of love for JC Miller, having earlier spent most of his career as a sideman and composer in the advertising world for clients like Coca-Cola, Nike and Levi’s. His songs are exercises in the journey to self-discovery, created with real instruments and authentic sounds with a unique contemporary twist.

Creating music that values timelessness over virtuosity, JC Miller traverses his own histories and the roots of Americana, often revealing truths about the history of his own family and country as a whole. Music became about rediscovering his family’s history by exploring America and, in turn, becoming a source of unearthing insight about himself.

With these songs, JC Miller is carrying on a tradition of American songwriting and creating guitar literature that is never ephemeral, evoking a classic sense of place and historical context. He admits, “I feel like I am representing another generation of storytellers. I’m trying to paint a picture through music, where the lens is focused on the deeply personal, but it can also be universal.”

As of June 7, 'Before Nightfall' will be available everywhere online, including SpotifyApple Music and elsewhere.

EXODUS - Release Live Album 'British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria)!

Today, American thrash metal masters EXODUS release their live album 
British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria)!
35 years of being locked away in the band's vault, the album now sees the light of day. The energy and heaviness that EXODUS radiate on these live recordings give every metal fan a reason to add it to their personal collection. A MUST for every metalhead!

To commemorate this massive release, the band have released a great visualizer video for their new live single 'Piranha (Live At The Astoria)'.

Gary Holt comments on the live album:
"I, as well as all the band, former members and current, are super excited for the release of the new(old!) live record, British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria)! When we first discovered these long hidden master reels, we were intrigued. When we listened, we were crushed! Can’t wait for everyone else to hear this record! A band on fire."

Purchase British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria) here: 
https://exodus.bfan.link/british-disaster-the-battle-of-89

Watch the new visualizer video for 'Piranha (Live At The Astoria)' Below.

Recorded on the 8th of March in 1989 at The Astoria in London, fans witnessed a night that went down in history and became legendary among EXODUS and thrash metal fans worldwide. The band had just released their third studio album Fabulous Disaster and started a five month run to promote the album which brought the Americans also to Europe for a month of live shows. During this European run EXODUS decided to record the show in London, but never released it. This recording remained unheard of in the EXODUS vaults. Until now! 
Be prepared for a much more aggressive and rawer sound than on the studio albums. British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria) is the ultimate live album presenting the sheer energy of what made EXODUS famous and notorious for during the 80s and what made them a legendary thrash metal band. A best of setlist compiled from the band's first three classic albums. The live album, mixed and mastered by Zeuss and the artwork done by Mark DeVito, will be available as CD, 2LP vinyl and digital.

EXODUS is:
Steve ‚Zetro‘ Souza  - vocals
Gary Holt – guitars
Rick Hunolt – guitars
Rob McKillop – bass
Tom Hunting – drums

VRSTY Share "World on Fire" Cover — LISTEN

Genre-blending and bending New York City-based collective VRSTY (pronounced "Varsity")  have shared their cover of Nate Smith's 200 million-streaming smash "World On Fire." Listen Below.

 "The first time I heard this song, I was absolutely stuck," says singerJoey Varela. "I haven't heard a song that's hit me this hard in a long time. Everything from the lyrics to the way that it's composed is just absolutely amazing to me. I think I knew instantly that I was going to cover it. My only fear was not being able to do the song justice.. but I think I did okay."

VRSTY dropped its most recent album Levitate last fall via Spinefarm. Get it here

VRSTY are on tour through the summer. All dates are below.

VRSTY ON TOUR:
6/1 — Mechanicsburg, PA — 10 Years Birthday Bash 
6/15 — Pawtucket, RI — The Met (With Wind Walkers)
6/16 — Hartford, CT — The Webster (With Wind Walkers)
6/17 — Vienna, VA — Jammin Java Vienna, VA (With Wind Walkers)
6/18 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819 (With DRUGS, Wind Walkers, Savage Hands)
6/19 — Columbia, SC — New Brookland Tavern
6/20 — Orlando, FL — Will's Pub (With Wind Walkers)
6/21 — Atlanta, GA — Purgatory at Masquerade (With Wind Walkers)
6/22 — Jacksonville, NC — Hooligans (With Wind Walkers)
6/23 — Richmond, VA — Canal Club (With Wind Walkers)
8/17 — Brooklyn, NY — The Meadows (With A Skylit Drive)
8/18 — Rochester, NY — Montage Music Hall (With A Skylit Drive)
8/20 — Lakewood, OH — The Foundry (With A Skylit Drive)
8/21 — New Kensington, PA — Preserving Underground (With A Skylit Drive)
8/22 — Baltimore, MD — Ottobar (With A Skylit Drive)
8/23 — Mechanicsburg, PA — Lovedraftz (With A Skylit Drive)
8/24 — Clifton, NJ — Dingbatz (With A Skylit Drive)

ABOUT VRSTY:
VRSTY (pronounced "Varsity") make music as energetic and richly diverse as the city that spawned them. Assembled by band leader Joey Tyler, a Puerto Rican singer from New York City raised on R&B, pop, and Spanish music and equally inspired by metallic post-hardcore, VRSTY blends genres with fearless ambition and visceral enthusiasm. A handful of EPs preceded 2020's debut album, Welcome Home, itself followed by a three-part series of sequel EPs solidifying the band's reputation.  
 
The band (comprised of guitarist Paul Gregory, bassist Javier Dorrejo, drummer Chris Cody, and Tyler) specializes in what Kerrang! described as "endless grooves and danceable parts, punctuated by breakdowns and completed with dark atmosphere." Meanwhile, "Massive,”"from 2020's Cloud City EP, remained the Most Played on SiriusXM's Octane for two consecutive weeks. In a 9/10 review, Outburn described Welcome Home as "effortless, fun, and above all genuine." Blabbermouth raved: "While other bands may have introduced the concept of genre-bending, VRSTY have refined it."
 
Genuine authenticity and uncompromising passion are crucial to everything about VRSTY. Levitate, the band's stunning sophomore set, is powered by spirited conviction and a commitment to follow their muse wherever it leads. It's an album of rich melodic hooks and headbang-inducing grooves. 
 
Tyler co-produced Levitate with Justin Deblieck (Ice Nine Kills, Motionless In White, Lorna Shore, Fit For A King). George Lever (Sleep Token, Holding Absence, Loathe) handled mixing duties. 
 
VRSTY commands the crowd anytime they perform, connecting with anyone who struggles with feelings of low self-worth, bad relationships, or generally feels like an outsider. It’s a feeling of shared community evident on the band's tours with the likes of 10 Years, Nonpoint, Secrets, and For The Fallen Dreams, among others. Ultimately, VRSTY aims to encourage, provoke, and inspire listeners. 

Invent Animate Announce 'Heavener (Definitive)' Out Now via UNFD

Invent Animate fans, rejoice! The atmospheric metalcore trailblazers have announced the release of 'Heavener (Definitive)' , and dropped their new track "How We Used To Say Goodbye" (via UNFD). Before today, Invent Animate shared "Sleepless Deathbed" which has amassed nearly 1.5 million streams on Spotify alone and 216k views and counting on YouTube. When asked about 'Heavener (Definitive)', guitarist Keaton Goldwire shared:

Finishing out 'Heavener' was a really special moment for us. There was such deep self-reflection and proudness that formed into an intense motivation. I don’t think was ever a time where I could say I was inspired by my own band, but this one really sparked something. So we kept writing. The songs we came up with are a true extension of Heavener and give us closure to an era. A new, definitive ending.

'Heavener (Definitive)' includes the original album in its entirety, plus “How We Used To Say Goodbye”, recent singles “Sleepless Deathbed” and “Heavener”, and a re-imagined version of “Without a Whisper.” The band will also be offering a premium version of the album on vinyl with a limited-edition D-Side etching, and an embossed jacket with spot gloss and foil stamping. Truly the definitive version of the critically acclaimed album – 'Heavener'.

Pre-save 'Heavener' (Definitive) and purchase vinyl variants here, stream "How We Used To Say Goodbye" here, and watch the visualizer below.

After wrapping up an entirely sold-out run with Bad Omens, Invent Animate will next be hitting the road on the Mirror's Edge North American Tour 2024 as direct support to Northlane, with Thornhill and Windwalker opening. For ticket information, please click here.

Mirror's Edge North American Tour 2024 Dates:

June 21 - Seattle, WA @ Neptune

June 22 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater

June 23 - Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory

June 24 - Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom

June 26 - Edmonton, AB @ Union Hall

June 27 - Calgary, AB @ Palace Theatre

June 30 - Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater

July 1 - Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues

July 2- Lakewood, OH @ Roxy

July 4 - London, ON @ London Music Hall

July 5 - Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall

July 6 - Ottawa, ON @ Bronson Centre

July 7 - Montreal, QC @ Beanfield Theatre

July 9 - New York, NY @ Irving Plaza

July 10 - Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club

July 11 - Philadelphia, PA @ TLA

July 12 - Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage

July 13 - Charlotte, NC @ The Underground

July 14 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl

July 16 - Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum

July 17 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Heaven)

July 19 - San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center

July 20 - Dallas, TX @ South Side Music Hall

July 21 - Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theater

July 23 - Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall

July 24 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex

July 26 - Anaheim, CA @ House Of Blues

July 27 - Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades

GRAIN OF PAIN Celebrates Album Release with "Beneath" Music Video; New Album Out Now on Noble Demon!

Finnish doom/death metal act GRAIN OF PAIN has released its debut full-length album The Moon Lights The Way through Noble Demon. In celebration of the album launch, GRAIN OF PAIN has just premiered a new music video for their latest single "Beneath".The band teamed up with Vesa Ranta, known for his work with renowned bands like Solstafir, Swallow the Sun, Amorphis, and Insomnium, as well as his role as drummer for Cemetery Skyline, The Abbey, and Sentenced.

Watch the video Below:

"The grim riff in the beginning of Beneath opens the album", mastermind Timo Solonen comments. "It begins the journey down to the abyss in which I seemed to be while making this song, it came quite naturally. Not that it’s hard for me to find the right mood while writing songs most of the time. Even the lyrics came easily without much hassle which is just inexplicable. Lars’ performance was so damn good and it was amazing to watch his work in the studio."

Led by Timo Solonen, the band's music is a potent fusion of dark, emotional melodies and powerful, guttural vocals. GRAIN OF PAIN's lineup features a stellar cast of musicians, with Timo Solonen at the helm, showcasing his skills not only as a composer but also contributing growls and guitars. Joining him are Juho Räihä on guitars, Lars Eikind on bass and clean vocals, Juuso Raatikainen on drums, and Sini Pajunenlending her captivating vocals to the mix. Taka Eliel adds backing growls to enrich the band’s gloomy sound.

GRAIN OF PAIN's sound is characterized by its intense emotional depth and draws inspiration from a variety of influences to create a unique blend of dark atmospheres and powerful melodies. The band's commitment to their craft has already attracted attention: Lars Eikind won the prestigious Spellemannsprisen in Norway and both Juho Räihäand Juuso Raatikainen were nominated for a Finnish Grammy with Swallow the Sun.

The Moon Lights The Way is now available digitally via Noble Demon.
Get the album at THIS LOCATION

THE PULL OF AUTUMN releases 'Memory Tree' album, a vibrant and reflective tapestry of poignant indie folk

"A gem... A genuine and welcome earworm" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"Beautiful... Pure and simple. Lyrically emotional and thought-provoking. It has perfect instrumentation and musicality" ~ Spill Magazine

"Better to travel well than to arrive... this band is not about merely travelling, this is exploration down the unbeaten paths of the glorious unknown" ~ The Swindonian


Art-rock indie-pop collective The Pull of Autumn presents their fifth album 'Memory Tree'. Described as "a melancholy remembrance of moments in time and life", released by Boston imprint RBM Records on CD and digitally. 

Earlier, the band shared the lead track 'I Was Just Dreaming', featuring Boston artist Bruce MacLeod on vocals, and 'Opening / Closing' featuring Rhode Island producer, songwriter and artist Kraig Jordan, who appeared on Tanya Donnelly’s three-album set and also opened for Belly at their recent home show in Rhode Island.

Led by Rhode Island native Daniel Darrow of 80s post-punk group Johanna’s House of Glamour, The Pull of Autumn is a collective with core members Bruce MacLeod, Matthew Darrow, Luke Skyscraper James (I.R.S. recording artist Fashion), plus a revolving door of collaborators. Each release involves notable and emerging artists, drawn from the local scene and further abroad.

'Memory Tree' features contributions by numerous outstanding artists, including Philip Parfitt (The Perfect Disaster), Ricky Humphrey (This Twisted Wreckage), San Francisco-based artists Leigh Gregory and Julius Manning, Berkeley singer-songwriter Sophia Campbell, and Rhode Island Rock’n Roll Hall of Fame inductee Paul Everett.

"Instead of the free-genre bending of what came before, this new album is focused on a continuous motion of sound that creates an overall effect of electro/acoustic music and ambient sounds. Hours were spent on the order of the track selection to create a continuous sound that tells a story reflected on the cover of the album," explains Daniel Darrow

"The tree pointing downward represents the future as well as holding onto the past. This album is a melancholy remembrance of moments in time and life. I am very excited to feature many RI artists whose music I have come to love and respect over many years. Many veterans from around the world also contribute to the album. I feel this album is a concise picture of this moment in time. Every song reflects beauty, future loves and lost loves. I am excited to bring this album and great artists to the light and to have there music heard."

The Pull of Autumn released their debut eponymous album in 2018, followed by 'Afterglow' in 2019, 'Small Colors' in 2020 and 'Beautiful Broken World' in 2022.

'Memory Tree' arrives two years after The Pull of Autumn's 'Beautiful Broken World' album, which involved several music luminaries, including The Pop Group's Mark Stewart, Living Colour's Doug Wimbish and producer Adrian Sherwood.

As of May 31, 'Memory Tree' will be available from fine digital music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and  Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Produced & Mixed by Daniel Darrow                          
Mastered by Bruce Macleod                            
Cover painting by Paul Everett
01. Memory Tree - Daniel Darrow (synths), Matthew Darrow (drums)    

02. Walter Benjamin - Leigh Gregory (guitars, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths), Aaron Carr (cello)                              
03. Freedom is a Thief - Sophia Campbell (vocals, bass), Daniel Darrow (synths), Kevin Carnes (drums), Dan Laks (guitar)    
04. Lovely Fellow - Luke Skyscraper James (vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths)
05. Dolphins - Paul Everett vocals, Daniel Darrow (synths), Kevin Zahm (bass), Bob Kendall (guitar)                                  
06. Awakening - Leigh Gregory (guitar), Daniel Darrow (synths)                      
07. I Was Just Dreaming - Bruce MacLeod (guitar, bass, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths)
08. Lines Written - Philip Parfitt (guitar, spoken word), Daniel Darrow (piano)
09. A Shrine to Past Memories - Matthew Darrow (synths)
10. Lost Time - Julius Manning (guitars, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths)    
11. Flow Motion - Ricky Humphrey (bass, drums), Daniel Darrow (synths, trumpet, electronics)                                
12. Opening / Closing - Kraig Jordan (guitar, bass, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths) - written by Kraig Jordan & Guy Benoit. 

         
       
Keep Up With The Pull of Autumn / RBM Records
Bandcamp | Facebook | Soundcloud | Twitter YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music |RBM Records | Press contact
 
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Texas' 9-VOLT VELVET share 'Hurricane Brain', a sonic whirlwind showcasing their debut 'Nude Beaches' album

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

"Weaving influences and wielding layers of guitar, this is sonic temptation and a wall of sound  in an alluring envelope. With a sonic tapestry of post-punk urgency, shoegaze dreamscapes and subtly haunting vocals, this is a song that demands your attention"~ The Spill Magazine

"A Narnia-like doorway... the repetitious groove and cavernous guitars of the shoegaze world plus the fist-in-the-air, sing-along anthemics of the foot-on-the-monitor glam world.... gorgeous" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"An impressive, almost quirky edge... giving several punk bands a run for their money" ~ Real Gone

"Explosive arrangements that hold listeners’ attention... blends raw energy and catchy hooks. With powerful percussion and a gritty punk riff" ~ Skylight Webzine


Dallas-based indie dreamgaze outfit 9-Volt Velvet presents 'Hurricane Brain', the latest audio-visual offering in support of their debut album 'Nude Beaches'. Unleashing their pure raw talent, the band explodes with a lively and a captivating blend of fuzz, feedback and the driving energy of post-punk, alt rock and shoegaze rolled together. Here we have sonic temptation, pulsating rhythms and whispery yet hypnotizing vocals. 

Now available on CD via Brighton, UK label Shore Dive Records, this 13-track collection blends washed-out fuzzy and feedback-laden guitars, driving bass and pounding drum beats. The band has also self-released a limited edition of twenty 7" lathe-cut vinyl, featuring 'Riptide' as the A-side and 'Hey Candy' on the B-side.

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

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

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

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

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

The 'Nude Beaches' album is available via Shore Dive Records on CD and digitally, as well as Apple MusicSpotify. The 'Riptide / Hey, Candy' 7" vinyl edition is available exclusively from 9-Volt Velvet's Bandcamp.

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

Keep up with 9-Volt Velvet
Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Soundcloud | Apple Music | Spotify | Press contact

Keep up with Shore Dive Records 
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud | YouTube

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Country Artist Chris Housman Releases Debut Album 'Blueneck'

Just in time for Pride Month, Chris Housman has released his highly anticipated debut album, Blueneck. As an openly gay country artist and songwriter, Housman has brought together both a queer and country sensibility with this project that, to many, might seem at odds with one another. Yet backed by a rich six string sound, he delivers a classic twang infused with his Kansas baritone to gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. Listen to Blueneck HERE
 
An NPR All Songs Considered Best Album pick noting, “…he is making beautifully crafted music that any classic country fan would love,” Housman co-wrote all 13 tracks on the album, offering a musical bridge for a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard hailing him as a beacon for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country music is for everyone.” Given the 4.5 million streams and 250,000 online followers for an independent artist, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.
 
The native mid-westerner’s country credentials go beyond his music though. He was born and raised in Hanston, Kansas, the epitome of small-town America with a population of just 200. His childhood was rooted in the rural and the conservative, growing up on a farm and living for Country music. “At 7 years old, I loved going to Country jam sessions with my family. I would get mesmerized by this guy Tom, who played fiddle,” recounts Housman, “At Christmas, I got a fiddle from Santa, and I picked it up and ran from there.” 
 
His talent was quickly apparent, and by the age of 8, he was performing with the family band, playing in venues across the state. Over time he would add other strings to his bow, learning to sing, play guitar, upright bass, piano, saxophone, spoons, banjo, and even whistle at a competitive level. 
 
“I played a ton of shows as a kid,” he recalls, “but my relationship with Country changed when I turned 18 and I came out as gay.” He moved to Nashville to attend Belmont on an academic scholarship and stopped playing for some time. “I thought, ‘I can continue to be comfortable and out and gay, or I can do country music, but I definitely can’t do both.’" For a while, that was that. 
 
However, the world of country music never quite let Housman go. After years working behind the scenes doing copyright and licensing for other artists, Housman couldn’t ignore the call of the stage anymore. It was a freak accident that brought him back into the fold. In 2014, Housman broke his neck, a shock to the system that made him realize he hadn’t moved to Nashville to just work on other peoples' music. After a brief stint in a duo, he began writing and performing at colleges across the country solo. 
 
In fact, a number of tracks on his debut album have already been resonating with fans. Title track “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “Y’all means all,” went viral on TikTok taking the burgeoning singer from 72 followers to hundreds of thousands overnight and hit No. 1 on the iTunes country chart, No. 4 on iTunes all-music chart, and peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Digital Country chart.
 
Other previously released tracks like “Bible Belt,” an examination of religious trauma, and the fable-like “Drag Queen,” which celebrates a teacher of the year who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, continued the dialogue between his genre and his lived experience. The clever wordplay and radio-friendly pop-country sounds made these songs instant hits with his rapidly expanding fanbase and expedited the release of his debut album.  
 
“It feels like my life’s work. The thing I’ve been making since I picked up the fiddle at 7,” Housman effuses “It’s pretty upbeat and positive but it’s also my soul, my truth.” 
 
The album’s most recent release “Guilty as Sin” saw its music video premiere last month in Times Square through CMT with Queerty calling it "defiantly gay" and generating 350,000 views in just three weeks. A special moment to be sure for an independent artist. However, for Housman, the greatest gift has been the response from fans. 
 
“I see a lot of people out there who grew up loving country music, but gravitated away from it because they didn’t feel welcome there anymore,” shares the tattooed troubadour. “When those people tell me I helped them finally feel seen in the genre…that’s already living the dream as far as I’m concerned.”

Fans in Music City can catch Housman next week as part of the line-up for GLAAD and Ty Herndon’s annual Concert for Love & Acceptance on Wednesday, June 5, at 7 pm at Margaritaville (322 Broadway). He will also return to CMA Fest for the second year on Friday, June 7 at 10:15 am performing on the Good Molecules Reverb Stage (Bridgestone Plaza at Corner of 5th Ave and Broadway). 
 
Housman is one of six participants in this year’s Equal Access Development Program, an intensive artist and management training initiative created by CMT and management company mtheory to support underrepresented voices in country music.
 
For more information, visit ChrisHousman.com and follow along on InstagramTikTok, and Facebook @ChrisHousmanMusic and on X @ChrisHousman.

Photo Credit: Ford Fairchild

About Chris Housman:
If Harlan Howard was right when he said “country music is three chords and the truth,” then Chris Housman is one of the best qualified artists working in Country today. Beyond the classic twang, rich six string backed sound, and disarming Kansas baritone, his offerings in the genre gently, yet unapologetically, speak his truth at every turn. As an openly gay country artist and songwriter, he meticulously brings together two worlds that, to many, are at odds with one another. Whether it’s the metaphoric “Drag Queen” which celebrates a small-town teacher who goes from Michael to Michelle after hours, or the viral sensation “Blueneck,” a welcoming homespun manifesto that proudly declares “y’all means all,” Housman’s music offers a musical bridge in a divided time. Called “irresistible” by Rolling Stone, with “Good Morning America” praising him for “making waves,” and Billboard staunchly affirming him as a saving grace for “outcasts in the genre,” Housman’s message is a simple one: “Country is for everyone.” Given his 4.5 million streams and 250,000 online followers, it's clearly a message that the world wants to hear.

E.S.P. (Engineered Society Project) New Album 'Deception' Out Now via Mindsnap Music/Combat Records

E.S.P. (Engineered Society Project) unveiled their highly anticipated album, Deception, on May 17th, courtesy of Mindsnap Music/Combat Records. Alongside the album release, the band also debuted a lyric video for the title track, "Deception".

Every track on the album was meticulously crafted and expertly mixed at Total Access Recording in Redondo Beach, California. Additionally, the two tracks "Undertaker" and "Kamikaze of Love" were recorded at Magic Studios in Houston, Texas. Get ready to immerse yourself in a sonic journey unlike any other.

One of the highlights of Deception is the track "Fade Away," which features the legendary Glen Hughes from Deep Purple. This collaboration adds a unique and dynamic element to the album, making it a must-listen for fans of both E.S.P. and Glen Hughes.

STREAM/DOWNLOAD DECEPTION

https://orcd.co/esp_deception

WATCH the lyric video for "Deception" Below

WATCH Tim Ripper Owens talk about the new E.S.P. Record:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPmxYc2dV5I

E.S.P. signed a worldwide deal with the quickly moving indie label Mindsnap Music/Combat Records. Mindsnap Music is owned and operated by Christian F. Lawrence (better known as “Opus”) and is distributed exclusively by Von Artists, Ltd. / The Orchard. Mindsnap Music has put out the likes of Joey Concepcion (solo), Dead By Wednesday, Bomber Alley (members of Dee Snider’s solo band), Howland Hyatt (Metal Church drummer Stet Howland), Joetown, S.O.S. & more!

E.S.P. takes the old school approach, but spins it with a modern twist without sacrificing integrity or respect for the style. E.S.P. consists of seasoned professionals that have extensive touring and industry experience. The band has lead singer Kris Keyes, formerly with GARGANTUA SOUL, appeared at Woodstock 99. Kris's former band was managed by the RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE team. Jo Jo Brown, the lead guitarist, brings a unique style of Neo Classical Metal coupled with an unmistakable touch of soul that connects with his audience. Timothy Moss, the bass guitarist, is well known in industry circles. Sean Salinas drives the beat on drums and was with the Cirque Soleil KA and Zumanity resident shows in Las Vegas. Together with their original music, this act brings an electric night of music that captures the attention of their audience and provides great entertainment value.

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

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Billy Morrison Releases Solo Album 'The Morrison Project' on Vinyl and CD Unveils Video for "It's Come To This"

Billy Morrison's highly anticipated solo album, The Morrison Project, is slated for release on Vinyl and CD in stores and online today, May 24, 2024, via TLG|ZOID / Virgin Music Group.

Receive a free digital album download with purchase from Amazon Music - https://ffm.link/tmpamazon

The album is available digitally HERE

There is also a limited edition 12" collectible through Revolver Magazine - https://shop.revolvermag.com/collections/billy-morrison

Morrison's recent release, "Crack Cocaine," a riveting collaboration with legendary icons Ozzy Osbourne and Steve Stevens has skyrocketed into the nation’s top 10 Rock Mediabase chart at #8 this week and at #9 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart."Crack Cocaine" features the masterful guitar work of Steve Stevens and was co-written by Billy Morrison, Ozzy Osbourne, and Steve Stevens.

Accompanying the release of The Morrison Project is a visually stunning music video, featuring not only Billy Morrison, but acclaimed actor Joe Manganiello and Spino the Iguana. The video was directed by Ivo Raza, (who also directed "Crack Cocaine") and filmed in the desert outside of Lancaster/Palmdale.

“It’s Come To This” was written by Billy Morrison and Erik Eldenius and marks the third single/video from the album.

THE MORRISON PROJECT was produced by Billy Morrison, mixed by Barry Pointer, and mastered by Dave Donnelly. The songs on the album were recorded in Los Angeles at various studios and were written by Billy Morrison in collaboration with his guests.

The Label Group (TLG) has embarked on a significant partnership with TLG | ZOID, which is distributed by Virgin Music Group, to promote Billy Morrison's solo album, The Morrison Project. This collaboration marks the establishment of TLG | ZOID as the new Rock arm within The Label Group's family of labels. The Morrison Project features a diverse range of guest artists, including Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, DMC, Al Jourgensen, Steve Vai, Steve Stevens, Linda Perry, Tommy Clufetos, JOHN5, and more. The album aims to showcase Morrison's songwriting prowess and creative vision, offering a multi-genre musical experience.

In addition to this musical endeavor, TLG has formed a strategic alliance with dCommunity to pioneer a fan-centric and artist-focused community within the metaverse, leveraging blockchain technology. This innovative approach aims to enhance fan engagement and interaction in the Web 3 community, positioning "The Morrison Project" as a showcase for these new technologies.

The British guitarist, singer, and songwriter is primarily known as Billy Idol’s rhythm guitar player for the past 15 years alongside lead guitarist Steve Stevens, has expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with TLG, highlighting the importance of a record deal that respects the artist's creative freedom and ensures widespread distribution across all platforms. This collaboration not only signifies a forward-thinking move in the music industry but also aligns with the evolving landscape of entertainment, where the integration of digital and virtual spaces is becoming increasingly prevalent.

SHAWN PERRY Releases Debut Album 'All American Heartbreak' Along with Single "Hookin' Up" via Neon Belly Records

Shawn Perry released his debut album All American Heartbreak along with single "Hookin' Up" via Neon Belly Records distributed by The Label Group / Virgin Music Group.
The album will be available on all streaming platforms and will be for sale on all digital storefronts. Physical copies of All American Heartbreak will be available on CD and LUXURY Vinyl in select brick and mortar locations and on Amazon.com.

The album is a genre twisting blend of hard rock, country, metal, vintage hip-hop and pop. "All my favorite things," says Perry. He adds, "I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it. I hope it brings a smile to your face, and proves that real musicians, playing real instruments, releasing products you can hold in your hand, touch, feel and smell are not dead, but are in fact poised for a comeback."

The song "Hookin' Up" will be released as a single with the album. The song was inspired by the real life romance of a friend who met his wife on Tinder. Shawn Perry later officiated their wedding. The line (falling' down drunk eating chicken in a bathtub) was inspired from a line of dialogue from the short lived Kate Walsh TV show Bad Judge.

All songs' music and lyrics are by Shawn Perry, with "Amen" co-written by Shawn Perry and Keven Thiede.

The album was produced by Shawn Perry and Ben Schigel, known for his work with Walls of Jericho, Drowning Pool, Chimera, and Machine Gun Kelly. The track "Lawnchair" was produced by Christian Davis Stalnecker, who has worked with El Debarge and Backstreet Boys.

Recording took place at Spider Studios in Cleveland, Ohio, Rock-N-Roll Dojo in Vermilion, Ohio, and The Castle in Nashville, Tennessee.

Ben Schigel mixed the album, except for "Lawnchair," which was mixed by Christian Davis Stalnecker.

The album was mastered by Grammy Winner Maor Appelbaum in Los Angeles, California, with the vinyl remaster done by Welcome to 1979 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Album Roster:

Shawn Perry: Vocals, Guitar, Percussion, Keys

Corey Linden: Guitars Vocals

Steve Albenze: Guitars

David Romwebber: Guitars

Greg Henry: Drums

Jeff Koteles: Drums

Russ Richards: Keys

Ben Schigel: Keys, Percussion

Carlos Flores: Bass

Paul Lewis Bass:

Genevive Gilbert: Violin

Additional Vocals: King Pala, Tyler Choen, John Calo, Lauren Koteles, Maryssa Elayne, Christian Davis Stalnecker

Shawn Perry is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, actor and entrepreneur known across the globe for his signature blend of big hooks, searing guitars, good times and raisin’ hell.

Shawn Perry was in tens of millions of households around the world during his time on the MTV series MADE, and various appearances on VH1, NBC, FOX, several independent films.

Over his career, Shawn Perry and his various musician projects have shared the stage and lineup card with numerous music legends, including: Poison, Warrant, Guns-N-Roses, The Darkness, Slash, Creed, Korn, Megadeth, Puddle of Mudd, Papa Roach, P.O.D., Chimera, Chickenfoot, Motionless in White, Jackyl, Volbeat, Queensryche, Rob Zombie, Skillet, Thousand Foot Krutch, The Hollywood Undead, Steel Panther, Thin Lizzy, Michael Stanley, Killswitch Engage, Powerman 5000, The Guess Who, and Hellyeah. Heck, he has even played a show with actor Corey Feldman of "Goonies" and "Lost Boys" fame...ah, the memories...

Since Shifting his focus to a solo career in 2015 with the release his debut EP Country Girls Shawn Perry and his band have performed at some of the largest festivals in Ohio (Rockin’ on the River, and Ohio Bike week, Country, Blues and BBQ Festival). They have also been fixtures at some of the top music venues in the Midwest including: The world- famous Cleveland Agora, The Odeon, The Thirsty Cowboy, Lyman Harbour and Jewel’s Dance Hall, sharing the stage with world class artist like Saving Abel, Aaron Carter, Sponge, Blessid Union of Souls, Finger Eleven, We Are Harlot (featuring members of Asking Alexandria), Demun Jones (formerly of Rehab), The Devil You Know (helmed by ex-Killswitch Engage vocalist Howard Jones), Charlie Farley and Country legend Colt Ford. They have also appeared on the Fox 8 Morning Show and had their music featured on I heart media’s (Clear Channel) nationally syndicated morning show Rover's Morning Glory.

In 2019 Shawn Perry and his crew released the single “Lawnchair” to critical and commercial acclaim. The song was recorded by Grammy winning producer Christian Davis at the Castle in Nashville and mastered by Grammy winner Maor Applebaum in Los Angeles. The song made it’s debut on the country charts in March 2019 and has been steadily climbing ever since. In 2020 Shawn Perry and his band hit the studio to record ten new songs for their new album Throwin’ Shade. The first single from the album “Six Feet Apart,” a U2 inspired power anthem, was released in October 2020 to critical and fan acclaim. In June of 2021 "Lawnchair" which will be included on the forthcoming album Throwin’’ Shade was re-released through TLG Entertainment/Universal once again earning rave reviews for it’s fun in sun good time vibes. Shawn Perry will be releasing several singles throughout the rest of 2021 starting with the barn burner "Hardrock Hillbilly" before dropping the rest of the album at the end of the year.

Shawn Perry and his band are endorsed artists for Ernie Ball/Music Man, Gibson, EVH Amps, Mapex Drums and Sabian Cymbals.

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

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Belgian dark synth-rock duo LOVELORN DOLLS present 'Diary of Nothing' ahead of 'Deadtime Stories' album

Belgian alt-rock duo Lovelorn Dolls release their fourth album 'Deadtime Stories', embracing a stronger identity – creepy cute ambiance, eerie Tim Burton-esque scenes, guitar-driven sounds, catchy dark melodies, childlike synths, industrial tones, and Kristell’s distinctive voice, all boldly and fully embraced.

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

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

"We had a lot of fun creating this video for one of our favorite songs on the album. This song alone sums up the "Lovelorn Dolls” spirit for me," says Kristell Lowagie.
 
'Deadtime Stories'  be released on May 24 via Alfa Matrix / SPLEEN+, joining other great artists on this label, including Front 242, Ayria, Recoil, Leather Strip and Alien Vampires. Earlier, the female-fronted duo previewed singles 'A Heart Cries', 'Dream World' and 'Beautiful Chaos' and also released the 'Deadtime Stories: the Book' featuring the lyrics, accompanying illustrations and photos by Kristell In Wonderland.

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

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

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

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

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

Keep up with Lovelorn Dolls
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Manchester's THE SPEED OF SOUND releases ‘A Cornucopia: Minerva’ album from epic 3-album set, plus video for 'Trickledown'.

"Buzzing fuzz guitar lines emerge from a delicate acoustic introduction to intersect with the crashing chords and the ‘bulbous pulsing’ rhythm section" ~ Record Collector Magazine

"it’s clear that the sonic kaleidoscope presented on The Speed of Sound’s new album is worth the wait - a musical compass in a direction we should all explore" ~ The Spill Magazine

“Unmistakeable sound a winning formula” ~ The Big Takeover

“A triumph of industry, imagination and talent, coolly novel and damned addictive” ~ Louder Than War

‘Unique and other worldly” ~ Vive Le Rock

“A form of Art-Pop that is wry, incisive, yet a deeply listenable examination of post industrial culture” ~ Rock At Night

"A riotous maelstrom of musical mayhem” ~ The Manc Review
Manchester indie rock psychonauts The Speed Of Sound are releasing the album 'A Cornucopia: Minerva'. The first record of the three-album set 'A Cornucopia: Minerva, Victory, Bounty', this is also the band's second release issued via California-based cult label Big Stir Records

Full of ambition, energy, and eccentric melodic brilliance, these future-retro-modernist garage-psych stalwarts offer up their new collection as Vinyl and CD 3-album sets under the umbrella title 'A Cornucopia'. Essentially 'Minerva' is being released as a deluxe edition, including two full-length bonus albums 'Victory' and 'Bounty'.

Hailing from Manchester, The Speed of Sound is made up of father and son John Armstrong (guitars and vocals) and Henry Armstrong (keyboards), Ann-Marie Crowley (vocals and guitar), Kevin Roache (bass guitar) and John Broadhurst (drums).

With 'A Cornucopia: Minerva' coinciding with the band’s 35th anniversary, The Speed Of Sound returns triumphant, defiant and redemptive, following up their 2021 critically acclaimed album 'Museum Of Tomorrow'. Named for the goddess associated with wisdom, the arts and strategic warfare, this album explores themes of resistance to mainstream cultural dominance, championing individual identity and artistic creativity whilst being a vigorous musical celebration of subcultural existence in the face of predominantly bland pop culture.

With the album's release The Speed of Sound also presents the video for 'Trickledown', having earlier shared 'The Great Acceleration' and 'West Wind'.  Here, they show another side of their craft with this delicate and spaciously haunting floating air, comprised of a soft-hued tonal palette just rich enough in reverb. 'Trickledown' puts forward a subtly expressed and quietly understated critique of Economic Theory, wrapped in a smoothly cast ballad of sheer silk gossamer lightness. A harmoniously mellow and hypnotically absorbing experience like fireworks in slow motion, the lyrics contrasts with razor sharp precision.

John Armstrong notes, “This could easily have been a traditional angry punk song, but gentle smoothness fits the soothing lie behind the Theory. I find the concept of Trickledown Economics bizarre. The idea of everyone owing their economic wellbeing to the existence of the mega-rich is pure sleight of hand fantasy; that they have amassed so much stashed away itself demonstrates it isn’t reaching further down. The stanza borrowed from Shelley’s Masque Of Anarchy (1819) in the middle section shows the general situation hasn’t changed in 200 years.”

'Minerva' presents 14 fresh and variegated tracks, each one a burst of differently-hued radio friendly sonic technicolor. These new pieces range from the recklessly fast Bo Diddley rhythm successfully merged with a Wagnerian horn section of lead single 'West Wind' to the haunting and spacious ballad critiquing Economic Theory that is 'Trickledown' to the stripped back mediaeval folk-tinged starkness of 'The Harvest' to the stratospheric vastness of 'The Great Acceleration'.

The album passes seamlessly through the acoustic guitar-driven groove of 'SS-100-X', the spacious iridescence of 'Eight Fourteen Monday', the lively ascendence of 'The Party Sniper', the glowing radioactivity metaphor of 'Half Life' to the bright uplifting dementia and identity-loss focused 'Mind Palace'. While the bouncing vibe of 'Bodysnatchers' reminds us to stay awake and not slip into the drabness of normalcy, the crunching melodic punch of 'Clickbait' zings into the typewriter introduction of 'Yet Another Tuesday', onwards to the punkifed rhythm and blues of 'So Faux' and the closing acoustic riot of 'Question Time'.

With their inbuilt eclectic and genre-defying style, The Speed Of Sound expand from their base-camp foundation of 1960s, punk and new wave influences, encompassing wide dynamic and stylistic variation, crossing borders and pushing boundaries at every opportunity while retaining continuity. Their music bursts with experimentation whilst retaining hooks and melodic sensibility, plus sharp barbed wit, lyrical depth and all-pervading sense of joy. 

Irrespressible and uplifting, The Speed Of Sound have continuously produced music laced with optimism and lyrical bite, tapping the DIY ethos of punk and the restless lust for experimentation of psychedelia. Formed in 1989 with a pre-history dating back to the day Andy Warhol died in 1987, their music has always been idiosyncratic, counter-intuitive and perpetually looking for something new.

As of May 24, 'Minerva' is available everywhere digitally, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. It will also be released on CD and vinyl via Big Stir Records.  The 'Bounty' and 'Victory' albums will see digital editions over the next year,

CREDITS
All songs written by John Armstrong
John Armstrong - guitars and vocals
Ann-Marie Crowley - vocals and guitars
Kevin Roache - bass guitar
John Broadhurst - drums
Henry Armstrong - keyboards
Bob Dinn - trumpet and flugelhorn
Chris Guest - harmonium, vibraphone, organ, shakers, tambourine
Alex Armstrong - typewriter on 'Yet Another Tuesday'
Voices on 'Mind Palace' by Janet Stacey Dando, Henry Armstrong, Nick Frater, Jason Edge (courtesy of The Electric Stars), John Broadhurst, Mark Britton (courtesy of Amoeba Teen), Janet Armstrong, Louise Turner, Peter Watts & Ruth Rogers (courtesy of Spygenius) and Kevin Roache, plus Ivy Frater (heartbeat)
Recorded, Mixed and Mastered at Vibratone Sound Studio in Manchester by Chris Guest, Adam Crossley and The Speed Of Sound.
Main sleeve image: Purple Spaceman © Lina Landers 2022
Artist photographs by Shay Rowan
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR


Keep up with The Speed of Sound
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ROTTING CHRIST Streaming New Album

"Another absolutely outstanding record...Even after a mind-blowing thirty five years and fourteen records, Rotting Christ might actually be at their very best right now" - Metal Injection (9/10)

"With Pro Xristou, Greece's premier extreme metal band have just crafted their most accessible - and perhaps most magnificent - album yet" -
Metal Hammer (4.5/5)

"Pro Xristou has all of the Rotting Christ hallmarks...this is the most arena-worthy Rotting Christ have been in some time" - No Clean Singing

"With Pro Xristou, Rotting Christ have summoned every diabolical riff and slaying beast that their career has produced and culminated it into a pummeling, brilliant, Gothic Black Metal attack on the senses" -
Teeth of the Divine

"Pro Xristou demonstrated once again that Rotting Christ are dark melodic metal craftsmen and, still, amongst the best in their field" -
Ghostcult (8/10)

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

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

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

In the pantheon of heavy music, few names resonate as profoundly as ROTTING CHRIST. Behind a legacy that has both defined and defied the realms of black metal, the Greek legends carve out a fresh set of dark, melodic scriptures on their new album. Pro Xristou is a grandiose narrative born of fire, rebellion and an unbreakable spirit.

Pro Xristou came out Friday May 24th, on Season of Mist. But you can listen to all 10 epic songs today by listening to the full album stream on our YouTube channel. 

Listen to Pro Xristou below.

Pre-order

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

Pre-save

https://orcd.co/proxtristoupresave

From the labyrinthine depths of Hades to the celestial might of Zeus, Pro Xristou embarks on an odyssey through the history of mythology and paganism. The album is a monument, etched with the profound lyrics of Sakis Tolis, that explores themes of defiance and enlightenment, set against the historical background of paganism's last stand against monotheism. The title track sets the tone, opening the album with a battle cry that unites the chthonic with the divine, solidifying Rotting Christ's journey from the underworld to the pantheon of metal gods.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recording Studio
Deva Sounds Studios (Athens, Greece)

Producer
Sakis Tolis

Sound Engineer
Fotis Bernando
Aggelos Karatzas

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

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

Artwork Artists
Thomas Cole - Artwork
Adrien Bousson - Digital Processing

Biography
Sébastien J. Gamez

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

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

Photo by © Chantik Photography

Poolside At The Flamingo Unleash 'Accabadora' EP & Brand Explosive New Single 'The Deceiver'

Colorado's grindcore 4-piece, Poolside At The Flamingo have officially released their new EP "Accabadora" via Blood Blast Distribution. This release marks a significant milestone in the band’s career, showcasing their evolution as musicians and their relentless commitment to redefining the limits of extreme music.

Speaking on today's EP release, Poolside At The Flamingo share

"The Accabadora EP is the first release that we're truly proud of and feel embodies the sound that we're looking to achieve. The songs on this EP were written with more care and attention than any other album/ep we've released. To us, it's the perfect blend of spastic grindcore and soul crushing breakdowns.”

Alongside the brand new EP, the band has unveiled their latest single, "The Deceiver," which exemplifies their brutal and innovative sound. The single is accompanied by a special compilation of their recent EP release shows, capturing the raw energy and intensity of their stage presence. Shedding light on "The Deceiver", the band adds:

"This song starts off with some chunk that will keep you guessing. Elements of hardcore may slightly peak their heads out as we express our rage for fake, two faced people.”

Following the success of their previous singles "Hell On Earth" and the EP's title track "Accabadora," which featured an epic music video with special appearances by the band members' kids, the excitement surrounding 'Accabadora' has been palpable. Their latest singles "Seething," and "The Deceiver" further build on this momentum, delivering the band's signature blend of brutal intensity and genre-defying soundscapes.

The 'Accabadora' EP, is a bold statement from Poolside At The Flamingo, showcasing their growth as musicians and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of extreme music by blending genres to produce the most brutal and unrelenting tracks possible with a strong focus on having fun and not taking themselves too seriously.

Stay tuned for more from Poolside At The Flamingo soon and don't miss the sheer, unbridled brutality with the release of their brand new EP 'Accabadora'.

To celebrate the release of their brand new EP, Poolside At The Flamingo will continue to dominate stages as they play a string of shows this spring.

Tickets are available from poolsideattheflamingo.com

5/16 - Oklahoma City, OK - TBA

5/17 - Corpus Christi, TX - Boozers

5/18 - Houston, TX - The Compound

5/19 - Fayetteville, AR - Arkansas Event Center

6/10 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater

6/28 - Denver, CO - The Roxy Theatre

Accabadora EP Release Shows Artwork | Download HERE

About Poolside At The Flamingo

Poolside at the Flamingo is a 4 piece deathcore/grindcore band based in Colorado, USA. Formed in 2005, Poolside At The Flamingotoured extensively in the "Myspace" days playing with the likes of Through The Eyes of the Dead, The Tony Danza Tap Dance Extravaganza, See You Next Tuesday and MANY more. 

Their debut album "This Will End Badly..." (2006) was recorded live in a residential basement. Their next official album, "The Sound Below" (2017), was produced by Dave Otero at Flatline Audio and more recently they released "Self Titled" (2023).

Poolside At The Flamingo Are:

Scotty Bohnen: Vocals

Danny Bohnen: Guitar

Rudy Garcia: Drums

David French: Bass

Return to Dust Unveil Brand New Video For "Face Down" & Join Sevendust As Support For "Seasons" Anniversary Tour This Fall!

Boundary-pushing grunge quartet, Return to Dust, have today released a brand new video for their latest single, "Face Down" taken off their long-awaited debut self-titled album via Jim Kaufman Productions. Directed by Matt Akana, the "Face Down" video delves deep into the realms of emotion and introspection, its grunge-infused aesthetic adding a raw and gritty layer to the evocative visuals. Fans can listen to the new album HERE, and watch the brand new video below.

"Face Down," a standout track on the band's debut album, serves as a poignant reminder of Return to Dust's sonic evolution. With its explosive instrumentation and poignant lyricism, the track captures the essence of smash hit "Belly Up," while ushering in a matured sound that emphasizes the band's rapid growth and their fearless embrace of musical experimentation. Shedding light on the brand new video, the band shares:

"We wanted to convey a sense of the surreal with the Face Down music video that our other videos hadn’t captured yet. So we created a red world and a dark void. Places where you’re not quite alive and not quite dead that shows the duality of beauty and chaos. Comfort and unease. Themes and feelings that permeate throughout the rest of this album."

Excitement continues to build for Return to Dust, as they gear up to join heavyweights Sevendust on their "Seasons" Anniversary Tour this fall. Pre-sale tickets are available today at 11AM ET, with the general on-sale beginning on Thursday, May 23 at 10AM local. All ticket information can be found HERE. With their first national tour on the horizon, the band adds:

"We grew up listening to songs like Terminator on our brothers’ CD collections so this tour feels like a full circle back to that time. We think it’s really cool that Sevendust is taking us out and supporting younger bands and couldn’t be more grateful / excited. It’ll be an incredible experience for both ours and Sevendust’s fans."

Returning to the roots of grunge with a modern twist, Return to Dust's self-titled debut album is a visceral exploration of angst, rebellion, and introspection. From infectious riffs to haunting dual-melodies, each track is a testament to the band's dedication to pushing musical boundaries while staying true to their distinctive sound. Their recent appearances at Welcome to Rockville and Sonic Temple only amplified the band's undeniable allure, solidifying their status as a must-see live act this year.

Earning a phenomenal 2 million TikTok views over the course of a weekend, see HERE, Return to Dust have soared to new heights. The TIkTok featuring the band's single, "Belly Up" swiftly impacted the band's trajectory - landing them over 3.5 million streams across DSPs, 73K Spotify Monthly Listeners, and 5.4 million total TikTok views. With the release of their debut record under their belt,Return to Dust have truly cemented their position as a rising force in the industry.

Return to Dust, who are heavily inspired by the legendary Alice In Chains, continue to gain traction and acclaim, solidifying themselves as mavericks in the current rock resurgence. Collaborating alongside renowned producer Jim Kaufman (Everclear, Danny Worsnop, Night Riots, Helmet) and earning accolades from rock impresario, Allison Hagendorf, the band's momentum remains unwavering. With their dynamic presence on TikTok, a rapidly growing streaming audience, and a loyal fan base, the band is gearing up for an exciting and promising future.

Stay tuned for what Return to Dust has in store, as they continue to make waves in the music scene and connect with their ever-expanding audience.

Return to Dust's self titled debut album is available for purchase HERE. The bundle, pictured to the right, features a 12" Vinyl for the audiophiles, a special LP inspired T-Shirt, an 11x17 poster of the album artwork, and an exclusive Snake Pendant Necklace for fans who seek a piece of the band's story to wear close to their hearts.

Catch Return to Dust Live This Year!

Dates In Support Of Sevendust

On Their "Seasons" Anniversary Tour

Fri, 9/13 - Hampton Beach, MA - Hampton Beach Casino

Sat, 9/14 - Hampton Beach, MA - Hampton Beach Casino

Sun, 9/15 - Albany, NY - Empire

Tues, 9/17 - Rochester, NY - Water Street Music Hall

Thurs, 9/19 - New York, NY - The Palladium

Fri, 9/20 - Harrisburg, PA - HMAC

Sat, 9/21 - Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore

Sun, 9/22 - Raleigh, NC - The Ritz

Tues, 9/24 - Knoxville, TN - The Mill & Mine

Wed, 9/25 - Atlanta, GA - The Eastern

Thurs, 9/26 - Chattanooga, TN - The Signal

Wed, 10/2 - Dallas, TX - The Factory

Thurs, 10/3 - Wichita, KS - The Cotilion

Fri, 10/4 - Tulsa, OK - Cain's Ballroom

Sat, 10/5 - Lincoln, NE- The Bourbon Theatre

Mon, 10/7 - Denver, CO - The Summit

Tues, 10/8 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot

ABOUT RETURN TO DUST

Los Angeles based alternative/grunge rock quartet Return to Dust (Matthew Bielawski, Graham Stanush, Sebastian Gonzalez, London Hudson) has already scripted a karmic saga that traverses decades, pays homage to the past, and plants its roots firmly in the future. Listening within their sonic universe is like time-traveling to the halcyon days of the '90s grunge era. Their sound, influenced by heavyweights of the time, reverberates with the echoes of Deftones, Alice In Chains, and the soul of Nirvana — but, their brilliance doesn't stop there. The band draws inspiration from a diverse palette, blending in bits from bands like The Cure, Metallica, and Cage The Elephant, molding them into their own unique musical tapestry. 

Return to Dust breathes life into a sound that feels both genuine and tailor-made to encapsulate the essence of a bygone era, leaving fans awash in nostalgia. Yet, it's not merely a mimicry of the past; instead, it's a fusion of the old and the new — an alchemy that conjures a sound distinctly their own. At the core are alluring bass lines (Stanush), gritty guitar riffs (Gonzalez, Bielawski), dynamic drumming (Hudson) and dual lead vocals (Bielawski, Stanush) that harmonize and intertwine, weaving an ethereal soundscape that resonates with raw emotion and unyielding energy. It's a moody concoction that pays homage to an iconic era while fearlessly exploring uncharted territories. Return to Dust beckons audiences into their world, where the past and present converge, igniting a fervor that keeps the flames of grunge alive. 

Return to Dust found its meteoric rise propelled by a chance encounter with none other than the illustrious producer Jim Kaufman(Helmet, Everclear, Night Riots). Under Kaufman's mentorship, the band's raw talent began to soar. During the darkest days of the pandemic, when the world stood still, Return to Dust seized the opportunity to channel their collective energy into crafting something profound. The result was their debut LP, a mesmerizing self-titled creation. It was a labor of love and dedication that not only transcended the barriers of personal growth, but also etched the band's name into the future of rock.


Return to Dust

Matthew Bielawski - Vocals & Guitar

Graham Stanush - Vocals & Bass

Sebastian Gonzalez - Guitar

London Hudson - Drums

Filth Is Eternal to support Baroness this summer!

Seattle’s Filth Is Eternal is confirmed to support metal juggernauts Baroness this summer on their U.S. tour. FIE joins Baroness on June 12 in Lawrence, KS and wraps the tour on June 30 in Stroudsburg, PA (full dates below).

Frontperson Lis Di Angelo says, "We are so excited to be hitting the road with Baroness. We’ve been following them for a long time and have loved everything they’ve ever released. It’s going to be truly special sharing the stage with them every night, and once again getting the opportunity to see all our road family while we are out there!” 

Filth Is Eternal released their new album, Find Out, last fall, and it highlights the band’s deep-rooted attention to songwriting. Exploding with fresh ideas, heavy on hooks, and clandestine melody, Find Out is a clear breakout release for FIE, not to mention a future staple for heavy music fans worldwide. Using the talents of producer Paul Fig (Slipknot, AFI, Alice In Chains) while recording at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606 and Dave’s Room, Find Out adds just enough spit polish in production to conjure the masses but still retains the dirt and grime necessary to remain congruous to the sound and fury within. 

Praise for Find Out:

“With 14 tracks blurring by in well under half an hour with zero fucking around, of course, you’re left wanting more. But that’s the point. Filth Is Eternal, and they’re still just getting started. 4/5.” –Kerrang!

“The album, music, art, and all, feels like an encapsulation of their live show, which is a sight to behold and an absolute event.” –Invisible Oranges

“FILTH IS ETERNAL truly found out exactly what best makes them tick as a band, embracing the relationship they have with fans and with live shows. The end result is 14 songs of crusty, filthy metallic hardcore that are simply too good to ignore. 8/10” –Distorted Sound

Filth Is Eternal Tour Dates:

June 12 - Lawrence, KS - The Bottleneck
June 14 - Memphis, TN - Growlers
June 15 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom
June 17 - Little Rock, AR - The Hall
June 18 - Nashville, TN - The Basement East
June 19 - Birmingham, AL - Saturn
June 21 - Richmond, VA - The Broadberry
June 22 - Charlottesville, VA - The Jefferson Theater
June 23 -  Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore
June 25 - Millvale, PA - Mr. Small’s Theatre
June 26 - Patchogue, NY - 89 North
June 27 - Bensalem, PA - Broken Goblet
June 30 - Stroudsburg, PA - Sherman Theatre
 

Get / Stream Find Out at Your Preferred DSP HERE

Connect with Filth Is Eternal:

Website
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Suck Brick Kid Release New Album "The End Is What I Want" via Smartpunk Records

SUCK BRICK KID RELEASE NEW ALBUM THE END IS WHAT I WANT VIA SMARTPUNK RECORDS

Listen to the album here.

Physical copies of the album are available here.

Suck Brick Kid have mastered the art of poignant reflection amid hilarity on their latest album release.

After pulling their inspiration directly from the walls of the finest dive-bar restrooms in America, the band has reimagined these "latrine-limericks" into full-scale stories with lyrics from the perspective of the person who made the mark. These crass, comedic, and often chaotic influences are set against a backdrop of loud and fast punk music that exudes authenticity, relatability, and (sometimes) maturity. It is dedicated to those who find their home in hole-in-the-wall punk shows and the off-kilter communities of dive bar bathrooms.

Speaking about "The End Is What I Want," the band says, "After discovering this crude and desperate etching on a dive bar bathroom wall one night, the concept for this record was born as we began to dig deeper into 'what' these people were going through that led them to express themselves in this way. It really opened up the ceiling for us creatively as we were able to explore the perspectives of these 'vandals' and crafted a story for each after hand-selecting some of our favorite bathroom graffiti finds. This was also a fun challenge for us to compile these clever markings as it gave us something else to do in the bathroom besides just rip piping-hot pisses."

ABOUT SUCK BRICK KID:
With a decade of beers literally under their belt, Suck Brick Kid have defined themselves as "loud as fuck and fast as fuck." This is mainly because their vocabulary is small and rudimentary, at best. But also because they really do both of these things better than most. They don't take themselves too seriously and that's infinitely refreshing!

With a slew of conceptual albums already out, Suck Brick Kid aimed high for this new release and found inspiration in one of the lowest places imaginable...a dive bar bathroom. Bathroom graffiti is often over-looked, over-pissed-on, or even over-appreciated (I saw you draw a penis on that stick figure you dirty dog) but Suck Brick Kid wanted to tap into the mindset of some of these individuals and explore what they were (maybe) going through when they made their mark. This opened up possibilities for the songs that vocalist Grant Tchekmeian and guitarist Ian Marchionda cleverly navigated, as they crafted some of the most insane and absurd lyrical content to date. The End Is What I Want should strike a chord with any lover of punk music, dive bars, both of those things, or people who just like a cheeky poop joke — no that was not one, but you see what I did there. 

This record is sure to put this band six feet under, in wooden suits, and left for the worms.

But before that happens, they've graced stages of FEST in Gainesville, Florida, and have also toured alongside Unwritten Law, Palisades, Set Your Goals, and more. However, the band is survived by the following family members (Grant Tchekmeian on vocals, Ian Marchionda on guitar, Daniel Valery on drums, and Hayden Cler on bass).

ABOUT SMARTPUNK RECORDS:
Smartpunk has been a recognizable name in the scene for a long time (Remember that sponsored Warped Tour stage?!). After exchanging several hands and countless ideas of what it could and should be, they decided to start a record label in 2016 with the main idea of focusing solely on reissuing records that have been out of print or never on vinyl. After all, they're a label of vinyl dorks themselves! After releasing Set Your Goals' Mutiny and Gameface's Good, they started to venture into signing newer bands. They actively balance in between many worlds — putting out amazing music from friends and bands that rock, reissuing older titles, and partnering with other incredible labels in our scene and doing exclusive color variants of their releases.

"Since forming the record label, Smartpunk Records has released timeless albums such as Less Than Jake's Anthem, Nominee's Lowlife, RIVALS' Sad Looks Pretty on Me, Virginity's POPMORTEM, and melodic skate punkers The Swellers' My Everest.

PAIN Release New Album "I Am" + Share Video For "Don't Wake The Dead"

Today, PAIN release their brand new album I Am via Nuclear Blast Records. 

Filled with anthems like "Don't Wake The Dead" and the hit single "Party In My Head," alongside atmospheric tracks such as "I Am" and "Fair Game," the album seamlessly blends uplifting catchiness with introspective moments, marking Peter Tägtgren's most personal and boldest work to date. To celebrate the album release, PAIN are also sharing their brand new music video for "Don't Wake The Dead," which was written by Peter's son Sebastian Tägtgren.                            
                    
Peter Tägtgren comments, "The first time Seb showed me the song I was blown away, from the beginning to the end, so dark, yet so beautiful. After I heard the song, I had a panic attack: 'How do I sing on this? And what?'

Watch the video for "Don't Wake The Dead" Below.

Stream/Order I Am here.

ABOUT PAIN:
 It's 2021 and a pandemic is strangling the world — and no one seems to be having fun.

Seemingly tireless music freak Peter Tägtgren couldn't care less as he hits the jackpot with — pardon the harsh language — a fucking catchy... well, party anthem. We are of course talking about the song "Party in My Head" by Tägtgren's synth-infused metal project PAIN.

"I don't really know what it is about 'Party in My Head' that made — still makes — people go crazy for it... But what I do know for sure is that the song has already been enjoyed millions and millions of times. The numbers are pretty crazy! Of course, PAIN is no stranger to writing danceable and catchy, albeit metallic shit... it's always been in the DNA of this project. But let's face it: If the world really needs 'party anthems' from a cynical geezer like me, something's seriously wrong," Peter laughs.

Our beloved planet may be screwed, but there still doesn't seem to be much wrong in PAIN's world as 2024 ticks fast on the calendar. There simply can't be, because PAIN's eagerly awaited new studio album I Am is soon here — yes, after eight years of devoted waiting.

"The previous record Coming Home came out in 2016 and of course there was a tour after that. In 2019, I released an album called F & M with Rammstein singer Till Lindemann, a project I left in 2020. In 2021, it was time for my death metal band Hypocrisy to get active with a new album Worship and of course we toured again. If that wasn't enough, let's add that there was a studio album with Joe Lynn Turner in 2022... In other words: the last eight years have passed in the blink of an eye," Peter sighs.

"After all this, it was the perfect time for PAIN to go full force again. I felt excited to say the least. Needless to say, the success of 'Party in My Head' gave the album process an explosive start!"

Let's get one thing straight: the powerful-sounding I Am is truly a versatile — if not the most versatile — musical missile in PAIN's rich discography. The new songs go everywhere with heavy industrial riffs, haunting melancholic vibes, and groove-filled rhythms, without forgetting surprises, of course.

"There's no boundaries with PAIN. I just get an interesting idea for a song and along the way it can turn into anything. Sometimes, I also like to deliberately surprise people by following an exciting musical path where unexpected things happen," Peter describes.

"If I had one big goal this time, it was to add more intensity and edge to the songs. 'Coming Home' turned out great, but looking back now, I was maybe a little too deep into my 'David Bowie worship' with the orchestral stuff and the acoustic guitars. This time around, I definitely wanted more tempo, aggressiveness, and an industrial atmosphere. Going back towards the old times of PAIN? Maybe a bit..."

He continues, "'I Am' is also more of a family affair than ever before. My son Sebastian, also a PAIN drummer,  wrote the music of 'Revolution' and 'Don't Wake the Dead.' These absorbing songs add width to an already versatile album. All in all, completing I Am required a lot of composing, writing, thinking, experimenting, doing, and re-doing. It was a long and sometimes challenging process, but never painful!"

Speaking of surprises... What song will give fans the biggest wow effect this time?

"It must be 'Go With the Flow.' I dare to insist that when it starts rolling, even the deep connoisseurs of PAIN music are wondering what the heck is going on here. I would say it's my 'Depeche Mode in the 80s' song," Peter laughs. "Lyrically, 'Go With the Flow' represents a slightly brighter moment in the darkness. I always tend to think that everything is going to hell, but with this song I tell myself, 'Come on dude, let things be for once and go with the flow.'"

There may be these rare rays of light from the beacon, but darkness still prevails.

"The album's title track starts with the line 'There's no hope in the valley of death.' And if I look at the lyrics, I could dig up a lot other examples of similar sinister moods. But hey, a sarcastic guy like me and such gloomy times we live in... Are you expecting some sunny faces here? Well, sunny or not, PAIN is going to be busy for the foreseeable future. There will be a lot of touring to support the record — summer festivals, extensive tours here and there, and more," Peter says.

He finishes, "And what about the future anyway? Ask me again in eight years and there have been a few studio albums from different bands, a lot of gigs and something else. Yes, I am what I Am..."