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

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

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

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

Watch the music video for “Altered State” below:

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

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/defiledalteredstate

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

Defiled Altered State Bandcamp Listening Party

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

RSVP

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

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

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

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

Songwriting credits

Music and lyrics by Yusuke Sumita

Cover art
Wes Benscoter

Booking contact
Yusuke Sumita - info@defiled.info


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

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

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

ADRIAN VANDENBERG ANNOUNCES 'MY WHITESNAKE YEARS" TOUR, WITH CO-HEADLINERS VINNIE MOORE AND MARCO MENDOZA

Distinguished guitarist Adrian Vandenberg is bringing a powerhouse night of classic hard rock to U.S. audiences this August with “My Whitesnake Years” tour.

The tour features an all-star lineup including acclaimed guitarist Vinnie Moore and veteran bassist/vocalist Marco Mendoza, celebrating decades of iconic rock music spanning Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, UFO, Ted Nugent, and beyond. Tickets and a VIP meet and greet package are available for purchase via this link: vandenbergband.com/tour

Here is what is received via the VIP package (limited to 25 per show):

·      Meet & Greet and photo with Adrian Vandenberg, Marco Mendoza, Vinnie Moore using your own camera. 

·      Autograph session with Adrian, Marco and Vinnie 

·      VIP Merch surprise – GIVEN TO YOU AT THE SHOW 

·      Commemorative VIP Laminate – GIVEN TO YOU AT THE SHOW

Fans can expect a night packed with classic songs, guitar fireworks, and deep cuts from some of hard rock’s most celebrated catalogs. The show will feature two complete 75-minute-plus performances, or a single extended 90-minute presentation with intermission.

Moore and Mendoza will also perform together in a collaborative set backed by a shared band, revisiting fan favorites from across their legendary careers.

For fans of classic hard rock and virtuoso musicianship, this tour promises an unforgettable evening celebrating some of the genre’s most enduring songs and performers.

Adrian Vandenberg 2026 Tour Dates

·       Aug. 3 – New Bedford, MA – The Vault Music Hall and Pub

·       Aug. 4 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place

·       Aug. 5 – Newton, NJ – Newton Theatre

·       Aug. 6 – Sellersville, PA – Sellersville Theater

·       Aug. 7 – New York, NY – Sony Hall

·       Aug. 8 – Derry, NH – Tupelo Music Hall

·       Aug. 9 – Syracuse, NY – Sharkey’s

·       Aug. 10 – Pittsburgh, PA – Jergel’s

·       Aug. 12 – Detroit, MI – Token Lounge

·       Aug. 13 – Wabash, IN – Honeywell Center

·       Aug. 14 – St. Charles, IL – Arcada Theatre

·       Aug. 15 – Dixon, IL – Dixon Theater

·       Aug. 16 – Columbus, OH – King of Clubs

·       Aug. 18 – Shipshewana, IN – Blue Gate Theater

·       Aug. 20 – Nashville, TN – Basement East

·       Aug. 21 – Harrison, OH – Blue Note

·       Aug. 22 – Gatlinburg, TN – Monsters on the Mountain Festival*

·       Aug. 23 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft at Center Stage

*Vandenberg only. Marco Mendoza and Vinnie Moore will not appear at the Monsters on the Mountain Festival date.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:

vandenbergband.com

New Release From Banks Arcade

LATE NIGHTS, LOUD DREAMS AND INNER DEMONS

BANKS ARCADE DROP "ROCKSTAR" VIDEO.

With "ROCKSTAR," New Zealand heavy genre-blenders Banks Arcade deliver a bold, adrenaline-fueled anthem driven by ambition, obsession and the hunger to rise above the chaos. Fusing crushing metalcore riffs with hip hop swagger, massive hooks and late-night studio energy, the track captures the mindset of chasing greatness while still feeling trapped at the bottom.

Fueled by distorted visions, inner demons, and relentless determination, "ROCKSTAR" balances raw aggression with undeniable confidence. Between explosive guitars, hard-hitting rhythms and razor-sharp vocal delivery, Banks Arcade channel the emotional high of believing in yourself even when everything around you says otherwise. The massive chorus — "We're just second place superstars” — turns frustration and burnout into an anthemic rally cry for anyone still fighting to make it out.

Lyrically, the band paint vivid pictures of sleepless nights, creative obsession and refusing to fold under pressure. "Late night in the studio I'm locked in" and "I'm so up right now / But I'm still at the bottom" perfectly capture the contradiction at the heart of the song: Feeling unstoppable while still battling doubt, exhaustion and the fear of never truly arriving.

Since forming in 2017, Banks Arcade have steadily built international momentum through relentless touring across the UK and U.S., a rapidly growing global fanbase and a sound that seamlessly blends modern heavy music with hip hop, alternative and electronic influences. With "ROCKSTAR," the band transforms raw hunger into an explosive modern anthem built for loud speakers, dark nights and anyone refusing to give up on themselves.
 
BANKS ARCADE LIVE:
6/10 — Leipzig, DE — Naumanns (Felsenkeller Leipzig)
6/14 — Brighton, UK — Chalk
6/16 — Stuttgart, DE — Proton The Club
6/25 — Hannover, DE — Musikzentrum
7/10 — Cheltenham, UK — 2000trees Festival

New Release From Blacktoothed

BETWEEN SELF-DOUT AND SALVATION — BLACKTOOTHED RELEASE "TELL ME I'M NOT ALONE" 

With "TELL ME I’M NOT ALONE," Leipzig-based metalcore act blacktoothed dive into the fear of change, the weight of self-doubt, and the painful comfort of staying stuck in familiar darkness. Blending ethereal vocals, restless drum + bass-inspired energy, and crushing modern heaviness, the band transforms inner turmoil into an emotionally charged anthem that feels both deeply vulnerable and explosively cathartic.

Driven by haunting melodies and an irresistibly massive chorus, the track captures the emotional contradiction of trying to move forward while feeling terrified of what lies ahead. Lyrics like "Every step feels like losing while I'm winning" and "I'm afraid of what I create" reflect the uncertainty of growth and the struggle of leaving old versions of yourself behind. Rather than offering easy answers, blacktoothed channel those emotions into a desperate plea for connection: "Tell me I'm not alone."

BLACKTOOTHED LIVE:
7/30 — Löbnitz, DE — Full Rewind Festival
8/15 — Dinkelsbühl, DE — Summer Breeze

Blackened Melodeath Metallers THROWN INTO EXILE Unleash New Single "Behind the Veil" + Official Music Video

Los Angeles' THROWN INTO EXILE proudly unleash their new single, "Behind the Veil," marking their official BLKIIBLK debut. The new track (which premiered on Matt Heafy's "Chaos Hour" on Sirius XM's Liquid Metal) showcases the addition of the band's new singer, Joshua Santos. "Behind the Veil" arrives alongside an official music video.

THROWN INTO EXILE comments:

"The addition of Joshua Santos brings a whole new dynamic to THROWN INTO EXILE that showcases a more extreme side to us that has not really been done in the band's history. This is only a taste of what's to come from our new album and we can't wait to play this live in a city near you this year."

Watch the Music Video for "Behind the Veil" Below:

With a career marked by constant change and evolution, THROWN INTO EXILE is a band on the brink. Exhaustive international touring and gigs alongside the likes of Arch Enemy, Orbit Culture, At The Gates, Deathklok, and Black Label Society, as well as US and European festivals including the UK's Bloodstock, have paved the way.

Now, THROWN INTO EXILE breaks through with the release of their new single and BLKIIBLK debut, “Behind the Veil.” With the addition of 26-year-old vocalist, Josh Santos, the stakes have grown as the band’s new material brings together urgent riffing with underlying melodies that recall both American and European sounds while delivering modern metal with unapologetic intensity. 

Stream / Listen to "Behind the Veil" HERE

THROWN INTO EXILE is currently supporting Dethklok ahead of a EU/UK run with Black Label Society. The band will also be supporting Arch Enemy and The Black Dahlia Murderthis fall. A full list of dates can be found below.

THROWN INTO EXILE Live:

w/ Dethklok:

5/22 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Palladium

5/25 - Seattle, WA @ Moore Theater

5/26 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater

5/28 - San Diego, CA @ Observatory North Park

EU/UK w/ Black Label Society

7/30 - Berlin, DE @ Huxleys Neve Welt

8/01 - Wiesbaden, DE @ Schlachthof

8/04 - Barcelona, ES @ Razzmatazz

8/09 - Derby, UK @ BLOODSTOCK FESTIVAL

8/11 - Oberhausen, DE @ Turbinehalle

8/14 - Leipzig, DE @ Parkbuhne

w/ Arch Enemy and The Black Dahlia Murder:

10/5 - Riverside, CA @ Municipal Auditorium

10/6 - Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee

10/8 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Rockwell at The Complex

10/9 - Denver, CO @ Fillmore

10/11 - Dallas, TX @ Echo

10/12 - Houston, TX @ House of Blues

10/13 - San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theatre

10/15 - Orlando, FL @ Beacham

10/16 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution

10/18 - Tampa, FL @ Jannus

10/20 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Heaven)

10/21 - Charlotte, NC @ Fillmore

10/22 - Raleigh, NC @ Ritz

10/24 - New York, NY @ Palladium Times Square

10/25 - Silver Spring, MD @ Fillmore Silver Spring

10/26 - Philadelphia, PA @ TLA

10/28 - Worcester, MA @ Palladium Worcester

10/30 - Quebec City, QC @ Videotron Centre Hall

10/31 - Montreal, QC @ Olympia

11/1 - Toronto, ON @ Danforth

11/3 - Chicago, IL @ Concord Music Hall

11/4 - Detroit, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre

11/5 - Cleveland, OH @ Agora

11/7 - Minneapolis, MN @ Fillmore

11/8 - Winnipeg, MB @ Burton Cummings Theatre

11/9 - Saskatoon, SK @ Coors Event Centre

11/11 - Calgary, AB @ MacEwan Hall

11/12 - Edmonton, AB @ Midway

11/14 - Vancouver, BC @ The Key

11/16 - Seattle, WA @ Showbox

NONPOINT Announce 'The Even More.. Outta Control Tour' New Single “IS IT” Available NOW on all DSP's

Nonpoint have announced a new tour in support of their hard-hitting new single “Is It,” that is now available on all major digital streaming platforms. The single was #1 most added last week and is currently in the Top 50 Media Base Charts. Known for their relentless energy, uncompromising sound, and undeniable live presence, the band continues to push forward with new music that captures the raw intensity fans have come to expect.

NONPOINT will be performing new material from their forthcoming album, giving fans an early taste of what’s next from the band while continuing to deliver the sound that has defined their career.

“Is It” serves as the first release from Nonpoint’s upcoming full-length album The Last Word, arriving in late summer 2026. Both the band and 361 Degrees Records are positioning this track as the opening statement of a new era, setting the tone for the album's themes and energy of the new record.

"In a world that sometimes wants to put a timestamp on creativity, The Last Word is our way of saying we’re just getting started. We’re pushing back against expectation and pushing forward into our own next chapter.”

Elias goes on to explain the concepts behind the song "Is It."

“‘Is It’ is that internal conflict where you question getting too involved? Did I push too hard? Did I ask too much? It’s that feeling of wondering if doing what you thought was right actually meant hurting the people around you.”

Elias explains the bold concept behind his design imagery on the cover. 

"This album cover tells a piece of our story. After years of making music, we feel more aligned than ever—musically, visually, and creatively. We’re writing some of the strongest material of our career, our live shows are as powerful as they’ve ever been, and the band feels focused and energized. The pencil on the cover represents what it’s like to be handed one last tool and expected to fit everything you have left to say into it. Not because the ideas are gone, but because longevity often comes with assumptions and limits. The Last Word isn’t about accepting an ending. It’s about challenging that narrative. If this is the pencil we’re being handed, we’re going to use it—and make sure the words written with it still matter."

WATCH "Is It" Lyric Video Below :

Tickets and VIP packages are available at

https://nonpoint.com/pages/tour-dates

Painful. Powerful. Unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it!

Nonpoint US Tour Dates

Dorothy, Nonpoint, Vrsty

7/23 Menahga, MN

Nonpoint, Spineshank, Hed Pe

7/25 Davenport, IA Capitol Theater 

7/26 Minneapolis, MN  Cabooze 

Nonpoint Only 

7/28 Des Moines, IA Woolys 

Nonpoint, Soil, Spineshank, Hed Pe

7/29 Indianapolis, IN Vogue Theater

7/31 District 142 Wyandotte, Mi

Nonpoint, Powerman 5K, Soil and more 

8/1 Rock Lansing, Lansing, MI

Nonpoint, Soil, Spineshank, Hed Pe

8/2 The Winchester Lakewood, OH

8/4 Sherman Theater Stroudsburg, PA

8/6 Wallys Hampton Beach, NH

8/7 Empire Live Albany, NY

Nonpoint, Spineshank, Hed Pe

8/8 Waynesboro, VA The Foundry

8/9 Harrison, OH The Blue Note 

8/11 Lexington, KY Manchester Music Hall

8/12 Sauget, IL Pops

Nonpoint only 

8/14 Ringle, WI Q&Z Expo Center 

Nonpoint, Spineshank, Hed Pe

8/16 Kansas City, MO RecordBar 

8/15 Milwaukee, WI The Rave II

8/16 Kansas City, MO RecordBar 

Nonpoint Only 

8/18 Colorado Springs, CO Black Sheep

Nonpoint, Spineshank, Hed Pe

8/20 Boise ID Shrine Social Club

8/21 Spokane, WA Knitting Factory 

8/22 Seattle, WA EL Corazón 

8/23 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theater

8/15 Roseville, CA Goldfield Trading Post

Nonpoint, Spineshank 

8/26 San Jose, CA The Ritz

Nonpoint, Spineshank, Hed Pe

8/28 Pomona, CA Glasshouse 

8/29 Las Vegas 24 Oxford

8/30 Mesa, AZ The Nile 

9/1 Lubbock, TX Jake’s 

9/3 Austin, TX Come & Take It Live 

9/4 Dallas TX Trees

South Florida-based rock band Nonpoint, has been captivating audiences with their energetic sound and passionate performances for over two decades. Formed in 1997, the band has consistently pushed the boundaries of what modern rock can be, combining heavy metal, nu-metal, and hard rock into a unique and powerful musical force. Over the course of their 30-year career, Nonpoint has released several critically acclaimed albums and garnered a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts in the industry.

Throughout their career, Nonpoint has been celebrated for their signature sound and powerful lyrics, which often tackle social and political issues. Their hard-hitting sound and emotional live performances have earned them a dedicated fanbase, as well as recognition from the music industry. Nonpoint has received multiple award nominations and has been praised by publications such as Rolling Stone, Revolver, and Alternative Press.

Nonpoint is:
Elias Soriano (Lead Vocals)
Robb Rivera (Drums)
Rasheed Thomas (Guitar /Backing Vocals)
Adam Woloszyn (Bass)
Jason Zeilstra (Lead Guitar)

For More Information Please visit:

NONPOINT

Official Website

Facebook

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Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

361 Degrees Records

The Song You Need To Hear This Mental Health Awareness Month: Of Virtue Release "What's It Like To Be Happy?"

Michigan metalcore outfit, Of Virtue, are giving voice to one of the quietest, most common struggles in their brand new single, "What's It Like To Be Happy?", out now via Arising Empire. Released in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the track arrives as the third and most intimate chapter in an already commanding 2026, following the explosive reception to previous singles, "Death Of The Altar" and "The Art Of Love". Fans can listen to the new single below.



Holding a mirror to the part of depression that is the hardest to admit, Of Virtue tackle articulating the gap between who you are and who you want to be, and how insurmountable that gap can feel on the worst days. Rooted in the debilitating effects of depression and all that follows, "What's It Like To Be Happy?" leans into the disconnect of watching life carry on around you while you stay perfectly, painfully still.

In doing so, the track continues the band's ongoing focus on the emotional and relational toll that addiction, mental health, and the stigma surrounding both leave in their wake. The brand new track, co-written alongside Lee Albrecht (Bilmuri, The Devil Wears Prada, etc) and Evan McKeever(Starset, Koe Wetzel, etc), adds another chapter to the story they began on their 2023 record, "OMEN", which has amassed an impressive 65 million streams since its release.

True to the band's unflinching commitment to honesty and their longstanding advocacy for mental health awareness, vocalist Tyler Ennis reflects:

"When we were writing this song, the title itself was a question that was asked out loud in a somewhat joking way - but hit me in all the ways I didn't think it could. 

A lot of the experiences that I’ve had to go through in my adult life flashed through my mind in the blink of an eye. The loss of family members, revolving door toxic relationships, body dysmorphia/health issues were the tip of the iceberg. I was diagnosed with ADHD, my dopamine levels have been nonexistent or been overloaded constantly. Imposter syndrome and identity issues have put me in some of the worst depressive states I have ever experienced and there were times where I wondered out loud if this is the way my life would be forever. 

In some of my darker moments as well, I turned to the wrong things to try and make myself feel better. Being a people pleaser and putting others before myself, self medication and not holding myself accountable was on full display. Posting only the "happy" moments on social media for validation, looking at other people and wishing I could feel the way that they did - not realizing in real time that a lot of them are also doing the same thing. It creates this weird feedback loop where everyone is pretending for everyone else and no one is truly happy at all. 

I’m still searching within every moment in my life to find out what happiness looks like for me. I’m not saying I haven’t smiled or laughed, but that one question still haunts me to this day."

Harnessing the potent fusion of powerful melodies and emotionally charged lyrics, Of Virtue maintain a steadfast commitment to authenticity, consistently redefining the genre while staying true to their artistic essence. Beloved across 35 countries and having performed at multiple Danny Wimmer festivals, Upheaval, Full Force, Summer Breeze, and Pulp Summer Slamamongst many others, it's no surprise that they've shared stages with bands such as Slipknot, Bad Omens, Nothing More, and Three Days Grace. Beyond their musical prowess, the metal powerhouse also serve as passionate mental health advocates on and off stage. Often seen using their platform to raise awareness and openly discuss these vital issues, Of Virtue have become a source of hope and inspiration for countless fans facing similar challenges.

Carrying forward the spirit of their 2023 record, "Omen", Of Virtue continue to champion vulnerability, community, and the belief that no one is defined solely by their worst decisions. With "Death Of The Altar" and "The Art Of Love" standing as the next chapter, the band further their evolution with a fearless, unflinching look at what it means to reclaim your life, even when it means burning down everything that once felt familiar.

Be sure to stay tuned for more Of Virtue news coming very soon.

THE ART OF LOVE & POWER TOUR

OF VIRTUE & SAVAGE HANDS

July 16 - Greensboro, NC - Hangar 1819

July 17 - Orlando, FL - Conduit

July 18 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade

July 20 - Dallas, TX - Three Links

July 21 - San Antonio, TX - Paper Tiger

July 23 - Phoenix, AZ - Rebel Lounge

July 24 - Anaheim, CA - Parish @ House of Blues

July 25 - Sacramento, CA - Starlet Room

July 27 - Seattle, WA - El Corazon

July 28 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne

July 30 - Salt Lake City, UT - Urban Lounge

August 1 - Denver, CO - Marquis

August 2 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep

August 4 - St Louis, MO - The Duck Room

August 5 - Minneapolis, MN - Amsterdam

August 6 - Milwaukee, WI - X-Ray Arcade

August 7 - Chicago, IL - Reggie's

August 8 - Detroit, MI - Sanctuary

August 9 - Columbus, OH - Ace of Cups

August 11 - Buffalo, NY - Rec Room

August 13 - Hartford, CT - Webster Underground

August 14 - Worcester, MA - Palladium Upstairs

August 15 - Philadelphia, PA - The Foundry

August 16 - Richmond, VA - Canal Club

August 18 - Baltimore, MD - Ottobar

August 19 - Pittsburgh, PA - Preserving Underground

August 21 - Nashville, TN - The End

“What’s It Like To Be Happy?” is a reminder that healing isn’t linear, and you deserve support every step of the way. It’s okay to ask for help.”

1 in 5 people in the US experience mental illness every year. The #1 most effective protection against mental health decline is social prevention. Take care of yourself and the people around you. It's okay to rest. It's okay to not be okay.

Of Virtue have always believed that no one should have to face these battles alone. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available. You are not alone.

NAMI Helpline): call +1 (800) 950-6264

SAMHSA National Helpline: call +1 (800) 662-4357

Open Path Collective (low-cost therapy): openpathcollective.org

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988

Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): +1 (866) 488-7386

Teen Lines: text TEEN to 839863

DONT YOU DARE Drop "S.O.S" EP + Share "Burning Out"

Born from the raw concrete of Sacramento, California, DONT YOU DARE (styled without the apostrophe) are a modern rock duo fusing the intensity of nu-metal and metalcore with raw, unfiltered emotion.

Vocalist Noah Duarte, a poet-turned-frontman, joined forces with guitarist Matt English to create a sound that's both therapeutic and confrontational, and the foundation of what would become DONT YOU DARE.

They just released their S.O.S EP via The Artery Foundation.

They also dropped the single "BURNING OUT."

Listen to below + get the EP here. 

"'BURNING OUT' is about the emotional burnout turned anger and resentment of trying to save a toxic relationship that keeps taking pieces of you until there's nothing left to give," says English. "The line ,'Everything I love has left me now, everything I love is burning down,' is the realization that fantasy and reality can no longer co-exist, when you realize how much of your worth and identity has been attached to that person that you're falling away from. The helplessness of being stuck in a cycle where you feel like you're always the one who has to change, always the one taking blame, and no matter what you do, nothing can save it."

Regarding the EP as a whole, Duarte states, "S.O.S is a call for help, every song is a different situation I went through emotionally or literally. Late nights, days that didn't seem to end, staring at the ceiling with questions running through my head and no answers in sight. S.O.S as a whole was three years of hard work, long headache-induced sessions, screaming until my voice gave out, generated into five songs that show the world who DONT YOU DARE is and what we will continue to be!"

He continues, "I could go on and on about this EP and how much I am thankful to everyone who worked on it, including my brother and best friend, Matt English, my manager and RIDE OR DIE, Matt Scarpelli, or the person who went out on a limb and gave us a chance, Eric Rushing. But I will give it to the fans to listen to and love as much as we do; to sing along with us every night, because without people to listen to these songs, DONT YOU DARE would be nothing. So here's to our debut EP, S.O.S, and to the beginning of DONT YOU DARE. Thank you to everyone who helped along the way and pushed me and Matt to our breaking point, to be the best version of ourselves day in and day out. This EP is everyone's to enjoy and cherish. I hope it means as much to everyone listening as it does to me."

DONT YOU DARE LIVE:

5/29 — Anaheim, CA — Parish Room at House of Blues (Supporting Arankai)
6/5 — Los Angeles, CA — Moroccan Lounge (With Carry the Day + Silent Vice)

The Artery Foundation is a familiar name to hard rock fans. In 2025, the brand has rebooted and is a full service company. It's a label, artist management and producer management firm, among other things. During its 2010s heyday, the brand helped author the burgeoning metalcore scene, having been responsible for signing and breaking genre titans.

From the sweaty chaos of basements and VFW halls to the world's biggest festivals, Artery has helped guide talent from local notoriety to global recognition. The list of heavy music cornerstone acts that started with Artery speaks for itself: A Day To Remember, Motionless In White, Dance Gavin Dance, Beartooth, Sleeping With Sirens, The Amity Affliction, Asking Alexandria, The Devil Wears Prada, Our Last Night, Memphis May Fire, Fit For A King, The Plot In You, Attila, Attack Attack!, and more. 

In 2010, the company launched Artery Recordings, a label imprint that gave rise to breakout acts like Chelsea Grin and Kublai Khan TX. As Artery continued to expand, founder Eric Rushing concurrently deepened his influence on Sacramento's music and nightlife culture. His handiwork is evident in various live venues, restaurants, and bars.

UK Rocker DAN BYRNE Releases Debut Album 'This Is Where The Show Begins' — Out Now via Frontiers Music Srl

Hotly-tipped UK rocker DAN BYRNE has unveiled his anticipated debut album, ‘This Is Where the Show Begins,’ out now via Frontiers Music Srl. To celebrate the release, DAN has also unveiled the new track “Pulling Me Under,” alongside an official visualizer, available below.

DAN comments:

"'Pulling Me Under' dives into the darker depths of the album. This is a dark, atmospheric alternative rock track built on tension, emotion, and contrast. It’s haunting and anthemic, with verses that feel suffocatingly close before breaking into a huge chorus that hits like a breath of air after the plunge.

He continues, "The song explores the internal chaos of reaching out for help from the very person who’s dragging you down and the feeling of emotionally drowning when the one you trust most becomes the source of your pain. It’s a confrontation of that paradox: needing saving from the person who’s breaking you.

"It’s about that mental struggle, when you’re asking someone to pull you up, but they’re the reason you’re sinking in the first place. I wanted the music to reflect that push and pull; the verses are tight and claustrophobic, and then the chorus opens up like coming up for air. It’s dark, emotional, and one of the most cinematic moments on the record."

"With its weighty production, layered guitars, and emotional scope, it embodies that recurring theme throughout the record: the beauty and release that come from surviving your own storms," DAN concludes.

Watch the Official Visualizer for "Pulling Me Under" Below:

‘This Is Where The Show Begins,’ DAN’s debut album, is full of joy and confidence. There is swagger alongside sensitivity, a widening musical horizon that feels both fresh and bold. At the center of it all is that voice, as powerful as it is vulnerable, as emotive as it is commanding.

The lead single, “Saviour,” is a perfect opener. It bursts to life with attention-grabbing hard-rock stabs and pile-driving riffs, its verses simmering with quiet drama before exploding into a chorus that promises we are in for one hell of a ride. It struts, it shimmies, and it absolutely rocks. “Light ’em up,” indeed. There is no letup as we are thrown headlong into “She’s the Devil,” DAN delivering a colossal vocal punctuated by gonzo guitar gymnastics, the euphoria here is undeniable.

Elsewhere, we are taken to church with “Praise Hell,” and “Sober” is steeped in regret. We may even get a glimpse of where DAN is headed next with album closer “Home,” a sprawling, shapeshifting piece of alt-rock that never loses its soul. It feels like Glenn Hughes and 30 Seconds to Mars combining their superpowers.

‘This Is Where The Show Begins’ feels like the culmination of an incredible journey so far and the launching point for what comes next. It is a testament to backing yourself, trusting your instincts, and letting ambition, honesty and musical diversity lead the way. This is where it may truly begin for DAN. The exciting question now is where he will take us next.

Order 'This Is Where The Show Begins' HERE

The release follows DAN's triumphant headline tour, with nearly every date sold out. He follows this with an acoustic record store tour. A full list of dates is below.  

Dan's Acoustic Record Store Tour 

May 22 @ Glasgow Assai Records (Matinee)

May 22 @ Edinburgh Assai Records (Evening)

May 23 @ Newcastle Beyond Vinyl (Matinee)

May 23 @ Bury Wax & Beans (Evening)

May 24 @ Sheffield Arundel Emporium (Matinee)

May 24 @ Oxford Truck (Evening)

May 25 @ Portsmouth Pie & Vinyl (Matinee)

May 25 @ Swansea Derricks (Evening)

May 26 @ London Fighting Cocks (Evening)

May 27 @ Nantwich Applestump Records (Matinee)

May 27 @ Leeds Crash Records (Evening)

May 28 @ Liverpool Jacaranda - full electric show, playing album in full

Dan will also be performing at Steelhouse Festival on July 25th.

DAN BYRNE swept in off the Mersey, announcing himself as a solo artist in 2023 with his debut EP, ‘Beginnings.’ His powerhouse, soul-inflected vocal and deftly-executed, yet hugely accessible songcraft has quickly marked him out as an artist on the rise. Blending contemporary edge with classic influence, BYRNE’s music is powerful, honest, and deeply emotive - widescreen in scope yet intimate at its core. It rocks, without question, but what truly sets him apart is the courage to weave sensitivity and vulnerability through the intensity. This isn’t just rock music - it has the heart and authenticity to connect with an audience beyond any one genre.

In just two years DAN has toured the UK three times, delivered standout performances at multiple festivals and found overwhelming support from Planet Rock - the UK’s leading rock station - where his first four singles amassed an impressive 25 weeks on the playlist. With that foundation firmly in place, BYRNE now turns his focus to the release of his long-awaited debut solo album, marking the next powerful step in his evolution as an artist.

Japanese Horror Inspired USBM Duo SAIDAN Unleashes New Single, "Ethereal Blood," Announces U.S. Tour

Japanese horror-inspired USBM outfit SAIDAN will be releasing its highly anticipated fourth LP, 'FANGDRILLER: Scars Beneath Memory's Wrist,' on June 19 via Avantgarde Music! The band is now unveiling the cinematic new single, "Ethereal Blood," along with a music video, which can be found below.

A prequel to 2023's 'Visual Kill,' 'FANGDRILLER' follows The Student (Junko) as she tries to heal her fractured heart. Haunted by wistful solitude, her isolation makes her the perfect victim for a mysterious cult known as Ethereal Blood.

SAIDAN vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Splatterpvnk comments, "'Ethereal Blood' is an essential part of the conceptual identity of 'Fangdriller.' Whereas many of the other songs on the album use metaphorical imagery to explain where I was emotionally at the time, 'Ethereal Blood' is a perverse initiation into something seemingly pure, yet shrouded in violent isolation."

While lyrically dealing with topics of depression, heartbreak, loss, and loneliness, the album is musically inspired by the lo-fi nature of classic Visual Kei and gothic black metal. Saidan strives to deliver an album that sounds nostalgic for an era of music that doesn’t exist. Blistering solos, deranged vocals, anthemic-riffage, and diabolical drumming are slammed together with doses of modern breakcore and wrapped in a black metal bow, garnering a feeling of familiarity while offering something that’s boldly unique.

Pre-orders can be found HERE.

Moreover, SAIDAN will be embarking on a U.S. tour in support of prolific atmospheric black metal band Trhä along with Barbelith. The trek will kick off on July 23 in Indianapolis, IN and will lay waste through the East Coast and parts of the midwest until the final stop on August 8 in Charlotte, NC. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.

SAIDAN U.S. Tour Dates (Supporting Trhä w/ Barbelith):

07/23: Indianapolis, IN @ State Street Pub

07/24: Detroit, MI @ Sanctuary

07/25: Milwaukee, WI @Club Garabaldi

07/26: Minneapolis, MN @ Zhora Darling

07/27: Des Moines, IA @ Locals

07/28: Kansas City, MO @ Mini Bar

07/29: Tulsa, OK @ Whittier Bar

07/30: Denton, TX @ Dan's SilverLeaf

07/31: Austin, TX @ The Lost Well

08/01: San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger

08/02: Houston, TX @ Black Magic Social Club

08/03: New Orleans, LA @ Siberia

08/04: Pensacola, FL @ The Handlebar

08/05: Tampa, FL @ Deviant Libation

08/06: Miami, FL @ Churchill’s Pub

08/07: Jacksonville, FL @ The Albatross

08/08: Charlotte, NC @ The Milestone

In the neverending quest of supporting young and boundary-pushing bands from the underground around the world, Avantgarde Music is proud to announce their collaboration with Saidan, a Japanese horror-themed black metal band from Nashville, TN.

Spawning from tragedy in 2020, Saidan rapidly released a string of demos and splits that caused a stir in the underground Black Metal scene. With their anthem-like riffage, violent imagery, deranged vocal delivery, and heavy metal flair, Saidan has risen above their contemporaries and stood out in a bustling USBM scene. In five short years, Saidan has gone on to release three LPs: 'Jigoku: Spiraling Chasms of the Blackest Hell' (2021), 'Onryō II: Her Spirit Eternal' (2022), and 'Visual Kill: The Blossoming of Psychotic Depravity' (2024), all to critical success. The band's latest offering, 'FANGDRILLER: Scars Beneath Memory's Wrist,' will be arriving on June 19, 2026 exclusively through Avantgarde Music.

'Fangdriller' is the fourth studio album born from the minds of multi-instrumentalist Splatterpvnk and drummer Hundosai, a new chapter in the narrative concept that links together all Saidan releases. A prequel to 2023's 'Visual Kill,' 'FANGDRILLER' follows The Student (Junko) as she tries to heal her fractured heart. Haunted by wistful solitude, her isolation makes her the perfect victim for a mysterious cult known as Ethereal Blood. 

While lyrically dealing with topics of depression, heartbreak, loss, and loneliness, the album is musically inspired by the lo-fi nature of classic Visual Kei and gothic black metal. Saidan strives to deliver an album that sounds nostalgic for an era of music that doesn’t exist. Blistering solos, deranged vocals, anthemic-riffage, and diabolical drumming are slammed together with doses of modern breakcore and wrapped in a black metal bow, garnering a feeling of familiarity while offering something that’s boldly unique.

'Fangdriller' was mixed and mastered by Splatterpvnk and once again comes with a cover art by Japanese visual artist Seiyak17.

Lineup:

Splatterpvnk - Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Keyboards

Hundosai - Drums

Live Members:

Ravenna - Bass

Luthious - Guitar

All songs written and performed by Splatterpvnk & Hundosai

All songs mixed and mastered by Splatterpvnk
Recorded at The Booth / Glowing Moon Studios (Nashville, TN, USA)

Artwork by Seiyak17

For Fans Of: Spectral Wound, X Japan, Cradle Of Filth, Malice Mizer

Formats:
Gatefold Vinyl Color Variants: Red (Standard), Bloodshot (Limited Edition), Onyx (Limited Edition)

CD (Digipak)

Digital

Pre-order links:

https://avantgardemusic.bandcamp.com/(Physical copies)

https://www.sound-cave.com/ (Physical copies)

https://saidan.bandcamp.com (Digital Only)

Links:

BANDCAMP

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

APPLE MUSIC

SPOTIFY

X

YOUTUBE

TIKTOK

HELL & HIGH WATER TOUR SET TO IGNITE STAGES NATIONWIDE Presented by Venom & Vixen

Prepare for impact. Prepare for chaos. Prepare for a tour that refuses to play it safe.

Venom & Vixen proudly present the Hell & High Water Tour, a relentless, high voltage run featuring two rising forces in heavy music: Hellheart and Seaside Massacre. This isn’t just a tour, it’s a collision of intensity, energy, and unfiltered aggression that’s set to leave venues shaken and audiences wanting more.

From the first note to the final breakdown, the Hell & High Water Tour delivers a fullthrottle experience built for fans who crave raw power, crushing riffs, and a live show that hits like a freight train.

TICKET INFO

5/30/2026* Sacramento, CA The Boardwalk - TICKETS

6/5/2026* Modesto, CA Sidelines Whiskeyjacks - DOOR COVER

6/11/2026* San Diego, CA McGuffie's - DOOR COVER

6/12/2026 Phoenix, AZ The Blooze Bar - DOOR COVER

6/13/2026 Farmington, NM Four Corners Metal Fest - TICKETS

6/14/2026 El Paso, TX RoseWood Bar - TICKETS

6/16/2026 Haltom City, TX Haltom Theater

6/17/2026 Lafayette, LA Feed & Seed - TICKETS

6/18/2026 Atlanta, GA 529 EAV - TICKETS

6/19/2026 Savannah, GA Coastal Empire Beer Co. - TICKETS

6/20/2026 Raleigh, NC Cannonball Music Hall - TICKETS

6/21/2026 Lynchburg, VA Super Rad Arcade Bar - TICKETS

6/23/2026 Akron, OH Afterlife Nightclub - TICKETS

6/24/2026 Louisville, KY Magbar - TICKETS

6/25/2026 Cincinnati, OH Oddfellow's - TICKETS

6/26/2026 Morenci, MI The Rex Theatre - TICKETS

6/27/2026 Chicago, IL Q Bar (Darien, IL) - TICKETS

6/28/2026 Kansas City, MO Sk8bar - DOOR COVER

Formed in 2017 in the heart of California's Central Valley, HellHeart is a relentless force in the realms of metal. They quickly become a driving presence in the local music scene, captivating audiences with their powerful and emotive sound. ​With roots firmly planted in the rich soil of melodic metal and hardcore influences, HellHeart's music weaves a tapestry of intricate melodies and unbridled aggression. Since their establishment, the band has consistently pushed the boundaries of their genre, crafting a sound that is both ferocious and emotionally charged. As they continue to evolve and refine their sound, HellHeart remains dedicated to making their mark on the metal scene, both regionally and nationally. With each riff, beat, and lyric, they forge a path

that resonates with fans who appreciate the depth and power of metal and hardcore music. Keep an ear to the ground for HellHeart as they roar from California's Central Valley, leaving an unmistakable imprint on the world

of heavy music.

CONNECT WITH HELLHEART

DREW BALDRIDGE HIGHLIGHTS THE HEART OF “REBEL” WITH NEW ACOUSTIC VERSION

Country star Drew Baldridge releases an acoustic version of his current radio hit “Rebel” via Lyric Ridge Records/Stoney Creek Records. Fans can get it HERE. 

Written by Baldridge and Adam Sanders and produced by Zach Crowell and Nick Schwarz, “Rebel” delivers a powerful message about flipping the traditional idea of rebellion on its head. The song serves as an anthem for standing firm in your convictions, celebrating integrity, faith, and family as the ultimate acts of defiance. With its soaring chorus and driving production, “Rebel” captures the strength it takes to stay true to yourself in a world that often rewards compromise.

“I wrote this song after noticing how often the wrong things get glorified,” said Baldridge. “Doing the right thing can feel rebellious, and I hope fans - and one day my sons - see that being a rebel here is actually a good thing. The song celebrates doing the right thing even when it’s not the ‘cool’ or easy choice.”

Baldridge recently released an acoustic performance video for the track, filmed at Ocean Way Studios in Nashville. The stripped-down rendition highlights the heart and emotion behind the song. Watch Below. 

He will bring his FARM FAITH FAMILY Tour + additional support dates across the country through the end of the year, where fans can catch him performing “Rebel” live. For tour dates and more information, visit DrewBaldridgeMusic.com. 

About Drew Baldridge: 
Baldridge continues to deliver exactly what fans have been asking for: a steady stream of new music rooted in his signature themes of farm, faith, and family. His new release, “Love Needs You,” arrives as a heartfelt summer anthem, ushering in his next chapter. It follows “Deserve Her” and “Get Me Gone” featuring Emily Ann Roberts via Lyric Ridge Records/BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. His current single, “Rebel,” continues to climb the charts following “Tough People,” which became his second consecutive Top 10 hit at country radio.

This new chapter builds on the massive success of Baldridge’s RIAA Platinum-certified breakout “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” which reached No. 1 on Country Aircheck/Mediabase and No. 3 on Billboard Country Airplay, making him the only self-funded artist to score a No. 1 debut on Mediabase and the highest-charting independent artist in Billboard Country Airplay history. With more than 2 billion streams and impressions to date, the song also earned a spot on NSAI’s “10 Songs I Wish I Would Have Written.”

This year, Baldridge will headline his FARM FAITH FAMILY Tour, bringing his music directly to fans across the country, while also joining Luke Bryan on tour and continuing to perform internationally following recent runs across Australia, the UK, and Europe. He has earned multiple accolades, including CRS New Faces 2025 and MusicRow’s 2025 Independent Artist of the Year.

KEEP UP WITH DREW BALDRIDGE
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

SCAR OF THE SUN STARTS EUROPEAN TOUR

Greek modern metal force SCAR OF THE SUN are starting their European tour today. Joining Japanese samurai metal pioneers WHISPERED as direct support, SCAR OF THE SUN will also share the stage with TORCHIA and CEREMONY for a relentless run of shows across Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, Belgium, the Czech Republic, and Poland.

Known for their crushing blend of atmospheric heaviness, metalcore intensity, and djent-driven precision, SCAR OF THE SUN continue to push the boundaries of modern metal with a sound that is both cinematic and devastatingly aggressive. Formed in London in the late ‘00s and now based in Athens, Greece, the band has steadily evolved into one of Europe’s most distinctive heavy acts.

The Return of the Shogunate tour will see SCAR OF THE SUN bring their explosive live performance to audiences across ten cities, delivering material from across their acclaimed catalog alongside WHISPERED, TORCHIA, and CEREMONY.

"Return of the Shogunate" European Tour 2026

23.05.2026 - DE - Hamburg - Stellwerk
24.05.2026 - DK - Copenhagen - Stengade
25.05.2026 - DE - Oberhausen - Helvete
26.05.2026 - CH - Aarburg - Musigburg
27.05.2026 - CH - Yverdon - Les Citrons Mosque
28.05.2026 - BE - Kortrijk - Club DVG
29.05.2026 - DE - Leipzig - Hellraiser
30.05.2026 - CZ - Prague - Subzero
31.05.2026 - PL - Krakow - Club Gwarek

Tickets are available HERE. 

About SCAR OF THE SUN

SCAR OF THE SUN is a Modern Metal band from Athens, Greece. Formed in London in the late ‘00s as a Modern Atmospheric Metal outfit, they progressively evolved and distilled their sound into an eclectic mix of Metalcore and Djent.

DIMMU BORGIR - Unleash New Single/Video 'As Seen In The Unseen'

Norwegian extreme metal titans Dimmu Borgir unleash Grand Serpent Rising, their long-awaited new studio album and first full-length release in eight years since Eonian.

Formed in 1993 by guitarist Sven “Silenoz” Kopperud and vocalist Stian “Shagrath” Thoresen during the height of Norway’s second-wave black metal movement, Dimmu Borgirhave never rushed the creative process - and the crushing weight and cinematic scope of Grand Serpent Rising proves the wait was worthwhile.

Recorded in Gothenburg with acclaimed producer Fredrik Nordström - the architect behind landmark Dimmu Borgir albums Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia and Death Cult Armageddon - the new record delivers thirteen punishing yet remarkably diverse tracks that push the band’s symphonic extremity to towering new heights.

To celebrate the release, the band has also unveiled a stunning new cinematic video for the track 'As Seen In The Unseen', further cementing Grand Serpent Rising as one of the year’s most anticipated extreme metal releases.

Watch the video for 'As Seen In The Unseen' below:

Listen to Grand Serpent Rising:
https://dimmuborgir.bfan.link/grandserpentrising

The Grand Serpent Rising North America 2026 tour marks the legendary return of Dimmu Borgir to North American soil for their first headlining trek since 2018, featuring special guests Hypocrisy, Suffocation, and Hulder.

Grand Serpent Rising North America 2026:
07 Aug 2026 New York, NY - The Palladium
08 Aug 2026 Worcester, MA - The Palladium
10 Aug 2026 Toronto, ON - HISTORY
11 Aug 2026 Montreal, QC - M Telus 
13 Aug 2026 Cleveland, OH - The Agora Theatre
14 Aug 2026 Chicago, IL - The Vic
15 Aug 2026 Minneapolis, MN - The Fillmore
18 Aug 2026 Denver, CO - The Mission Ballroom
21 Aug 2026 San Francisco, CA - The Warfield
23 Aug 2026 Los Angeles, CA - The Novo

LINE UP:
Shagrath - vocals
Silenoz - guitars
Damage - guitars
Victor - bass
Gerlioz - keyboards
Daray - drums

DIMMU BORGIR ONLINE:
https://facebook.com/dimmuborgir
http://instagram.com/dimmuborgir
https://youtube.com/user/dimmuborgir
https://x.com/dimmuborgir
https://dimmu-borgir.com/

Power Metal Warriors WARKINGS Release Cover of "Live is Life" — WATCH + LISTEN

Power metal warriors WARKINGS celebrate their energetic shows with a new single: Their cover of "Live is Life" honors fellow Austrians Opus. Originally released in 1984, the song became an international hit. Similarly, WARKINGS stormed the top 10 of the German and Austrian charts with their latest album, Armageddon, released in the summer of 2025. Now, the quintet turns "Live is Life" into a power metal anthem with a charming '80s vibe — headbanging to this will leave you with a melody stuck in your head.

Of course, WARKINGS are using their new live anthem to expand their legions this summer. Their latest campaign will lead them to various European festival grounds—among them, Copenhell, Alcatraz, and Elbriot. Find the full list of dates below!

The Tribune about "Live is Life":
"When we forged our own WARKINGS version of 'Live is Life,' we never expected it to become such a massive anthem. But once we played it live on tour, our warriors and shield maidens in the crowd sang every word with us—and from that moment, we knew this song had become part of our battle hymn arsenal. The energy and the unity—it was impossible to ignore. This song belongs to our legion as much as to us."

Watch the Official Video for "Live is Life" Below:

Since their formation in 2018, WARKINGS have cemented their place in the power metal scene. They have conquered festival stages, played alongside legends like Powerwolf, Hammerfall, and Subway To Sally, and built a devoted fanbase that has chanted their anthems at Europe's biggest stages, including Wacken Open Air.

The five warriors in WARKINGS have once again taken up their weapons to bring the legends of their past to life with mighty power metal anthems. Each of them carries the memories of great battles within, and now, the time has come to unleash these stories upon the world alongside the indomitable sorceress Morgana le Fay. The band's fifth album, Armageddon, is a journey through some of history's most pivotal conquests—moments where warriors stood firm, empires crumbled, and the world was forever changed.

WARKINGS comment:
"Armageddon is not just the end — it's the moments in history that changed the world forever. This album is a tribute to the warriors and shieldmaidens who faced the battles that shaped their world."

Get Your Copy Of Armageddon NOW!

WARKINGS are:
The Tribune – Vocals
The Crusader – Guitar 
The Viking – Bass
The Spartan – Drums
Morgana le Fay – Vocals

WANG CHUNG ANNOUNCE 40TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION OF TO LIVE AND DIE IN L.A. SOUNDTRACK

Wang Chung are excited to announce the 40th anniversary deluxe edition of their iconic To Live and Die in L.A. soundtrack, arriving July 31, 2026 via Interscope Records.

Originally created at the personal request of legendary director William Friedkin, the soundtrack has become one of the defining musical statements of 1980s cinema and a cult favorite among generations of film and music fans.

Pressed on Opaque Orange “L.A. Sunset” vinyl, the deluxe 2LP edition features newly remastered audio, rare bonus material, extended mixes, and two previously unreleased 1985 demos, “Joy” and “So Cold.” Fans can also look forward to an expanded digital edition of the soundtrack, expected to arrive soon and featuring additional tracks and a few surprises still to be revealed.

The expanded collection also includes “Dance Hall Days” and “Wait” — both featured in the film — with “Dance Hall Days” appearing on the soundtrack for the very first time, alongside the commercial debut of the instrumental “This One’s for You, White Boy.”

“After a number of years searching for the right partner for this project, we are very proud to announce the release of a deluxe, remastered double vinyl 40th anniversary edition of the soundtrack to To Live and Die in L.A. on Interscope Records,” said Jack Hues and Nick Feldman of Wang Chung. “We’re sure the long wait has been worth it and that fans will appreciate this beautifully packaged release.”

Best known worldwide for massive hits including “Everybody Have Fun Tonight,” “Dance Hall Days,” and “Let’s Go,” Wang Chung continue to tour globally and remain one of the most recognizable acts to emerge from the UK New Wave era.

This summer, Wang Chung will also hit the road across North America as part of Howard Jones’ “Things Can Only Get Better Tour” alongside Howard Jones, The English Beat, Modern English, and host Richard Blade.

TOUR DATES

July 19 – Napa, CA – Blue Note Summer Sessions at Meritage Resort

July 20 – Saratoga, CA – The Mountain Winery

July 21 – Paso Robles, CA – Paso Robles Event Center

July 23 – Los Angeles, CA – Greek Theatre

July 24 – San Diego, CA – Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre

July 26 – Las Vegas, NV – Resorts World Theatre

July 29 – West Valley City, UT – Maverik Center

July 30 – Greenwood Village, CO – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre

August 1 – Council Bluffs, IA – Harrah’s Stir Cove

August 4 – Austin, TX – ACL Live at Moody Theater

August 5 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre

August 7 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park

August 8 – Rochester Hills, MI – Meadow Brook Amphitheatre

August 11 – Kettering, OH – Fraze Pavilion

August 12 – Lewiston, NY – Artpark Amphitheater

August 14 – Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata Resort Spa & Casino

August 15 – Washington, DC – The Anthem

August 19 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues

August 20 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater

August 21 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center

August 23 – Toronto, ON – The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium

To Live and Die in L.A. – 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition will be available July 31, 2026. Pre-orders begin May 20 at 9AM PDT.

Air Drawn Dagger Return With Video for New Single "Me & My Friends (We're Trying Asbestos We Can)"

Air Drawn Dagger return with their new single "Me & My Friends (We're Trying Asbestos We Can)", the first clear signal of what follows their debut album and a defining step into the band's next creative chapter.

Recorded with Jim Pinder, whose work includes Sleep Token, Hot Milk, Bullet for My Valentine, and Neck Deep, the track captures Air Drawn Dagger at their most focused and visceral. It channels the emotional weight and sharp intensity that defined the debut era while pushing into darker and more refined territory, setting the tone for what comes next.

The release follows a sold-out London headline show in April, staged as the final performance of the debut album era, and arrives as the band prepares to tour across the UK and Europe throughout the year. This single is not a continuation but a statement, marking the moment Air Drawn Dagger step forward with intent, clarity, and a renewed creative identity.

Watch the video to "Me & My Friends (We're Trying Asbestos We Can)" Below.

Stream the single here.

Air Drawn Dagger comment on the single:
"This song was forged in a cabin in the German mountains in the brief space between tour dates. It came from a period of exhaustion, closeness, and reflection, where everything felt heightened and exposed.

"Sonically, the track feels polarizing yet consistent. We built it around contrast rather than compromise, pairing a 'campfire' style chorus that feels almost communal, with the heaviest and most chaotic moments we have ever put into a song. The aim was to let those extremes exist side by side.

"'Me & My Friends (We’re Trying Asbestos We Can)' is three minutes of melodic anguish that reflects where we were mentally and creatively. It captures the push and pull between connection and burnout, warmth and violence, clarity and noise. It documents a band in motion, writing in real time, and allowing the chaos of this period to shape the song rather than fighting against it."

CATCH AIR DRAWN DAGGER LIVE:
5/31 — Sheffield, UK — Corporation (supporting Dead Pony)
7/3 — Stoke-on-Trent, UK — Riff Factory
7/4 — Nottingham, UK — Mist Rolling Inn
7/5 — Leeds, UK — Wharf Chambers
8/21 — Edinburgh, UK — Bannermans
9/5 — UK — D.H. Lawrence Festival

AIR DRAWN DAGGER ARE:
Maisie — Vocals
Lewis — Guitar, Backing Vocals
Ross — Drums

Gideon Drops New Single "4x4" and Official Music Video via Sumerian Records

Tuscaloosa, Alabama quartet Gideon have today released their new track "4x4" and the official music video via Sumerian Records. Prior to today, the band shared their rager "Wrong One" which has amassed over 1 million streams on Spotify alone and over 727k views on YouTube. After tearing up Welcome To Rockville and Sonic Temple last weekend, fans also have their chance to see the band on the Let It Rip North American Tour going on now with Alpha Wolf, Mugshot, and Resolve, followed by a performance at Aftershock 2026 in October. Stream "4x4" at the link here, watch the official music video below, and be sure to watch this space for more Gideon news coming very soon.

Let It Rip Tour Dates with Alpha Wolf, Mugshot & Resolve

Wed May 20 - Albany, NY @ Empire Live

Thur May 21 - Québec, QC @ La Source de la Martinière

Sat May 23 - Ottawa, ON @ Overflow Brewing Company

Sun May 24 - London, ON @ Rum Runners

Tue May 26 - Grand Rapids, MI @ Elevation

Wed May 27 - Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave / Eagles Club

Fri May 29 - Des Moines, IA @ Wooly's

Sat May 30 - Omaha, NE @ The Waiting Room Lounge

Sun May 31 - Lawrence, KS @ Bottleneck

Tue Jun 2 - Fort Collins, CO @ Aggie Theatre

Wed Jun 3 - Colorado Springs, CO @ Black Sheep

Fri Jun 5 - Las Vegas, NV @ AREA15

Sat Jun 6 - Pomona, CA @ The Glass House

Aftershock 2026

Sat Oct 3 - Sacramento, CA @ Discovery Park

Scottish Alt Rockers THE XCERTS Share New Single "rinse repeat" + Visualizer

Today, THE XCERTS share "rinse repeat," the latest single from their forthcoming sixth album‘i think i want to go home now.,’ out on July 10th via FLG.

The track is, by the band's own admission, something of a first: a song that deliberately references their own back catalogue. Drawing a direct line to "crisis in the slow lane" from their 2009 debut ‘In The Cold Wind We Smile,’ "rinse repeat" revisits familiar emotional territory, cancer, heartbreak, helplessness, but refracted through the experience of adulthood and the weight that comes with it.

Speaking about the track, vocalist and guitarist Murray Macleod says:

"This might be the first time we've self-referenced our own material. There are a lot of parallels between our first record and this record, with the heartbreak of a relationship deteriorating and the loss of a parent. We wanted this song to be reminiscent of 'crisis in the slow lane' but from the perspective of adulthood. Sadly cancer was all too prominent in our lives during the writing and recording of this record, and this song is very much about my father's diagnosis at the tail end of 2022 and the helplessness of it all. I also tend to merge different scenes in verses and tie them together with choruses, so verse 2 is also about hopelessness, but in regards to my then partner's struggles."

Watch the Visualizer for "rinse repeat" Below:

It is another unflinching entry in an album that has consistently refused to look away. Where "pretty ugly" arrived as a fuzzed-out blast of anger and "in your eyes" built toward something sweeping and quietly devastating, "rinse repeat" sits somewhere between the two: purposeful, direct, and rooted in the same collaborative instinct that has defined the making of ‘i think i want to go home now.’ throughout.

The album was written by all three members together in a room, something the band had not done since their early records, and that process is audible throughout. Recorded by Larry Hibbitt at Beehive Studios, its ten songs document two years of genuine turbulence, including the passing of bassist Jordan Smith's mother and Macleod's father's cancer diagnosis, processed in real time and in company.

'i think i want to go home now.' arrives July 10th via FLG.

Pre-Order 'i think i want to go home now' HERE

THE XCERTS Live:



June 9th - Stirling - Albert Hall (with Twin Atlantic)

June 10th - Edinburgh - La Belle Angele (with Twin Atlantic)

June 11th - Aberdeen - Beach Ballroom (with Twin Atlantic)

July 11th - 2000 Trees Festival (full album playthrough set)

August 1st - Arbroath Music and Food Festival

THE XCERTS are:

Murray Macleod - vocals and guitar

Jordan Smith - bass

Tom Heron - drums

MIDNITE HELLION Summon The Dark with New Single “THE CONJURING” Their Rendition of the Megadeth Classic

"The Conjuring," located in the depths of the band's rehearsal collection, is one of four bonus tracks featured on the re-release of "Condemned To Hell." Our rendition of this Megadeth classic is fast, loose, and most importantly, fun - a fly-on-the-wall perspective of exactly what we were getting into 9 years ago.

MIDNITE HELLION return with fire in their veins and darkness at their command, unleashing their latest single, “The Conjuring.” This isn’t just a song, it’s a full-scale sonic ritual that pulls listeners into a world of mysticism, aggression, and relentless metal energy.

From the moment the track begins, “The Conjuring” casts its spell. Driven by razor-sharp riffs, thunderous drums, and soaring yet menacing vocals, the song channels classic heavy metal spirit while pushing forward with modern force. It’s a track built to hit hard, stick with you, and demand repeat listens.

Lyrically, “The Conjuring” dives deep into themes of power, transformation, and the unknown drawing from dark imagery and arcane influence to create a narrative that feels both cinematic and visceral. The band doesn’t just play the music… they summon it.

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BIO:

Heavy Metal Rock 'n Roll - MIDNITE HELLION does it best. Founder/drummer Drew Rizzo, long-time bassist/backing vocalist Rach Kubik, and lead guitarist Charles Koegler create the power that amplifies every town.

Their distinctive style – classic, no-frills heavy metal serving tremendously infectious spurts of thrash riffs with a straight, fun stage attitude – made them a top pick for world-class acts to ignite their respective crowds. Bringing their strong regional fan base to the table, MIDNITE HELLION shared the stages with OverKill, Dirkschneider, Grim Reaper, Flotsam & Jetsam, Obituary, Diamond Head, Raven, Exodus, Yngwie Malmsteen, and many more.

Their electrifying debut album Condemned to Hell (2017) proved to be just the kind of wrecking ball that the band needed. Picked up and widely spread by multiple Marconi award holder WSOU 89.5 FM, the album successfully leveled a solid path into the wider US metal scene. In less than a year, Condemned To Hell became a national phenomenon – and so did MIDNITE HELLION as a touring act, spawning intense mosh pits left, right, and center. The touring cycle in support of the album peaked in late 2018 when the band shared stages with OTEP and THE WORLD OVER in the Midwest and Mountain regions of the United States.

Fueled by the sheer awesomeness of their fans and the energy received from this crowd, and driven by a bag of new songs and ideas that they brought back home, MIDNITE HELLION entered Pyramid Sound Studios in Ithaca, NY in August 2019. The recording of their second album Kingdom Immortal took them only six days with the help of iconic producer Alex Perialas, who in the past contributed to shaping the signature thrash sound of Anthrax/S.O.D, OverKill or Testament, while also adding a pound or two to Joe Bonamassa’s music. Mixing took place in March and Mastering in May 2021, before Daniel Bacigalupi (Barry Gibb, Dolly Parton, Stray Cats, Willie Nelson) cut the vinyl mastering at Infrasonic Sound.

This Halloween, Midnite Hellion teams up with Marc "Skippy" Price (Family Ties) for the 40th Anniversary of "Trick Or Treat," starring Marc Price, Ozzy Osbourne, Gene Simmons, and the late Tony Fields as Sammi Curr. Under Sammi's spell, Midnite Hellion is taking on the role of his band, Omniarch, performing along with the film for the ultimate fan experience for three exclusive shows...unless Sammi demands they play his songs again...

The best is yet to come, as the blast from the past is far from over!