ACCEPT Touring the US for the First Time in 10 Years *** Announces Meet and Greet with ACCEPT

ACCEPT will be touring the U.S. for the first time in 10 years. The Accept show will leave nothing but huge smiles on the faces of the fans seeing it. The secret to the Accept's eternal youth is: they all love what they are doing! Other bands might need lots of pyro and lights, Accept's power comes from: three extremely strong guitarists a bad-ass vocalist, and a rhythm section that hits you right in the chest. Accept is in absolute top form. Fans can expect a diverse set-list of new and classic tracks plus mega-hits "Balls To The Wall", "Princess Of The Dawn", "Fast As A Shark", and many more.

As part of the "Too Mean To Die" Tour ACCEPT announces their Meet and Greet VIP Experience. Fans will get priority access to photos with the band, exclusive gifts, and more! "We can’t wait to hit the stage and are excited to announce the official ACCEPT VIP Experience. We’d love to see you and get to meet you before the show, take pictures, and sign your favorite items! Stay well, keep on rocking, and see you backstage!” VIP Experiences can be purchased from www.ACCEPTworldwide.com.

Last year ACCEPT released their critically acclaimed 16th studio album Too Mean To Die which landed them on the top of the charts [#1 - USA Hard Music #2 - Germany #3 - UK (Rock) etc.]. Now the metal legends are coming back to the states poised to kick off their headlining "Too Mean To Die - Tour North America 2022" this fall to cement the band´s reputation as one of the best hottest and most proficient live acts ever. Accept guitarist Wolf Hoffmann comments: "After two difficult years, we are very much looking forward to returning to the USA and playing in front of our American friends again. Let’s rock out and have a great Accept metal party with all of you headbanging metal veterans out there!"

"Too Mean To Die - Tour North America 2022" dates w/ Accept
Sept. 29 - Nashville, TN - Brooklyn Bowl
Oct. 1 - Houston, TX - The Concert Pub North
Oct. 2 - Fort Worth, TX - Rail Club
Oct. 4 - San Antonio, TX - The Espee Pavilion
Oct. 5 - El Paso, TX - Rockhouse
Oct. 7 - San Luis Obispo, CA - The Coach House
Oct. 8 - West Hollywood, CA - Whisky A Go-Go
Oct. 9 - Las Vegas - Vamp'd
Oct. 11 - Denver, CO - The Venue
Oct. 13 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave Ballroom
Oct. 14 - St. Charles, IL - The Arcada Theater
Oct. 15 - Westland, MI - The Token
Oct. 16 - Toronto, ON - The Phoenix Theater
Oct. 18 - Vineland, NJ - Landis Theater
Oct. 20 - Jim Thorpe, PA - Penns Peak
Oct. 21 - Patchogue, NY - Stereo Garden
Oct. 22 - Peekskill, NY - Paramount Theater
Oct. 23 - Teaneck, NJ - Debonair Music Hall
Oct. 25 - New York City, NY - The Gramercy
Oct. 26 - Derry, NH - Tupelo Music Hall
Oct. 27 - Harrisburg, PA - XL Live
Oct. 29 - Columbus, OH - King Of Clubs

About AcceptThe band which includes guitarist and founding member Wolf Hoffmann has defined the international genre since they formed in Solingen Germany in 1976 reigning as one of the most important German rock bands in the 80s alongside the Scorpions while also influencing bands such as Metallica Slayer Guns N' Roses and Iron Maiden. 

Accept line-up:
Wolf Hoffmann - guitar
Mark Tornillo - vocals
Uwe Lulis - guitar
Philip Shouse - guitar
Martin Motnik - bass
Christopher Williams - drums

Hard Rock Alliance NESTOR Reveals Acoustic Version of “It Ain’t Me” + Video

Exclusive Kids in a ghost town Deluxe Album Edition to be Released on September 30 via Napalm Records

Pre-Order HERE

Formed more than three decades ago in 1989 only to fall into a slumbering hibernation lasting until last year, cult-followed Swedish hard rock outfit NESTOR decided to reunite, reinvent the iconography of rock and restore its glory in 2021 with their debut album – yes, their debut album – Kids in a ghost town. With friendship as the foundation of this unique, seemingly unbreakable bond, NESTOR are back for good and better than ever!

Today, NESTOR reveals a new rendition of their song “It Ain’t Me”, off their acclaimed debut album. In this stripped down acoustic version, the band shows that they are a jack of all trades, able to transform their beloved old-school hard rock into timeless and heartfelt adaptations.

NESTOR states:

“’It Ain't Me’ is all about unanswered love. In the end the love you make is equal to the love you take."

Watch the new music video for “It Ain’t Me”

Based on a true Friendship!

NESTOR embraces influence from the 80s with a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. With glossy production, NESTOR takes you straight back to the golden age of rock music, openly displaying their influences: from Bon Jovi and Aerosmith to Journey and Foreigner. With over 30 years of existence, NESTOR turn back time while being one of the hottest newcomers of modern rock music, with millions of streams on Spotify and hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube to boot, even having shared stages with the almighty ALICE COOPER, hard rock powerhouse H.E.A.T. and supporting the legendary KISS in Stockholm on their 2022 stadium tour!

Upon its initial release, NESTOR’s acclaimed first album, Kids in a ghost town, sent their fans on a journey back in time to the 80s, both in sound and spirit, as well as with their completely self-produced music videos – all of which spurred a nomination for a Swedish Hard Rock/Metal Grammis-Award! This is an album of such impressive scale in fact, that Napalm Records has decided to re-release Kids in a ghost town as an exclusive Deluxe Edition, set for release on September 30, 2022!

NESTOR Singer Tobias Gustavsson about the re-release of Kids in a ghost town:

"The ambition with the re-release of the album is to extend and deepen the story of NESTOR. By adding three new songs, we're letting the listener once again go back in time and remember how it used to be in the late 80s!"

Pre-Order Kids in a ghost town HERE:

The re-release of Kids in a ghost town includes the critically acclaimed full-length album as digital album, CD, Black Vinyl LP and cassette tape, as well as a limited edition wooden boxset (+ exclusive 7" sun yellow transparent vinyl, 3 guitar picks, CD - Digisleeve & wristband) and Die Hard red transparent vinyl (+ exclusive 7" vinyl & patch).

NESTOR are:

Jonny Wemmenstedt (guitar)

Mattias Carlsson (drums)

Tobias Gustavsson (vocals)

Marcus Åblad (bass)

Martin Frejinger (keyboards)

NESTOR online:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Napalm Records

Kenny + REEF = Ltd Edition Sandal Benefitting Pigeon Key

KENNY CHESNEY TAKES REEF INTO HERE AND NOW 2022

Teams Up for Special Limited-Edition Sandals to Benefit No Shoes Reefs

REEF Comes to SoFi Stadium: Having sold through all of the first delivery of No Shoes Reefs Limited-Edition REEF sandals, the core team of America’s global sandal leader celebrate before Chesney’s SoFi Stadium show in L.A. Founded in 1984, the San Diego-based company has long been a favorite of the surf community. (L to R: Mike Matey, Head of Sales; Jen Wilson, Head of Marketing; Kenny Chesney; Caroline Varhola, Head of Marketing; Mike Jensen, President)

Kenny Chesney has been having a massive summer with No Shoes Nation. With six attendance records already set, the Here And Now 2022 Tour anchored by 21 stadium shows has seen the crowds of 50,000+ taking their always-high velocity response to new thresholds. Life-affirming for many who have held their tickets for more than 1,000 days, Here And Now 2022 serves as a reminder of how potent the connection between life and music can be.

“To hear the cheers, or feel the energy,” Chesney says, “it’s a whole different thing this tour. It’s loud, but there’s something more to it. It feels like they’re all glad to be together again, singing these songs and remembering how powerful a community they are when they come together.

“I like to say No Shoes Nation is a country without borders. But even more, it feels like a family or 50,000 really great friends who are in it together no matter what.”

Expanding that sense of commitment and community, the man the Los Angeles Times called “the People’s Superstar” teamed with global sandal leader REEF to create a special edition No Shoes Reefs sandal. Founded in 1984, the San Diego-based company has long been a favorite of the surf community.

Fashioned in palomino or saddle-colored leather – the men’s strap embossed with a skull and crossbones, plus No Shoes on one and Reefs on the other, and the women’s thongs featuring a rose gold-colored Jolly Roger stud with the No Shoes Reefs logo embossed on the sole – REEF teams with No Shoes Reefs to help support Pigeon Key Marine Science Camps. Based in the Florida Keys, it provides young people with knowledge about the ocean, coral reefs and marine life.

“They share so many of the same core values I do when it comes to ocean conservation,” Chesney says of the alliance. “I’ve worn their sandals for years, as have a lot of my friends down in the islands. When they wanted to work with us through No Shoes Reefs, I was delighted to have them become part of this work that’s been so focused on local projects.”

“We are always looking to partner with people who view the life around the water the same way we do,” explained REEF president Mike Jensen of the project. “Kenny Chesney isn’t just an incredible recording artist and live performer, he’s a dynamic advocate for local organizations working to create a better ocean community. Working with him to help support Pigeon Key’s educational efforts is a great way to begin what we hope is a long relationship.”

Concertgoers have seen the video on the screens with a QR Code, which directs to REEF.com to order. Thirty percent of proceeds goes to No Shoes Reefs’ Pigeon Key project to inspire the next generation of explorers and oceanographers. So popular are the limited-edition sandals, REEF sold out of its first batch before the Los Angeles SoFi Stadium show due to demand. REEF’s warehouse team has now received the remaining No Shoes Reefs sandals, which can be purchased HERE.

With the tour heading into its final weeks, No Shoes Nation shows no signs of being any less passionate between now and the final August 26-27 Gillette Stadium stand to close out Here And Now 2022. But as the summer fades, the No Shoes Reefs sandals are a palpable reminder of all that was – and will be; a souvenir that gives back as well as marks another year’s memories.

About No Shoes Reefs:
Originally established in 2015, Chesney teamed with the Building Conservation Trust to create artificial reefs in places where degradation undermined healthy reefs, which provide living habitat for many kinds of sea life. Working at a grass roots level with the Coastal Conservation Association, 18 months after submerging their first two structures, Chesney and CCA President Pat Murray heard the fish finders and depth censors go crazy as they floated over the locations on the St. John River. Since then, No Shoes Reefs has worked with organizations in Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, South Carolina, and of course East Tennessee where Chesney is from, to raise awareness and support for education and activations in both freshwater and saltwater habitats.

About REEF®:
REEF is the global footwear and apparel brand that inspires people to feel comfort and freedom from their first step. United by the spirit of the beach since 1984, REEF designs innovative and comfort-driven products to celebrate the freedom and fun of the beach lifestyle. REEF® is a registered trademark of Trestles IP Holdings, LLC.

Walker Hayes Is Most Added at Country Radio with “Y’all Life”

New Single Is Hayes’ Highest Streaming Debut to Date

Hayes Set to Return to TODAY Show for Performance on Citi Summer
Concert Series This Friday, Aug. 5 – Full Details HERE

Cover art for “Y’all Life” | Courtesy of Monument Records

Following a breakthrough year that saw the Monument Records recording artist earn a GRAMMY nomination, six Billboard Music Award nominations, five ACM Award nominations, a CMT Award nomination, and a number one at Country radio, Walker Hayes is at it again with new single “Y’all Life.”

Yesterday, the song debuted at Country Radio as the most added song of the week, with 76 first week stations on the track.

“We’ve been at this a long time, and I’ve never had this many stations add one of my songs on day one,” says Hayes. “Thanks to my team for busting it out there and thank you to all the stations spinning my songs. If your local station is on the song give ‘em a shout!”

Released on July 15, “Y’all Life” also gave Hayes his highest streaming debut to date – no small feat for an artist who has two of the top 5 highest streamed songs in the genre this year to date. With over 2.5 million first week streams, “Y’all Life” was the No. 1 country digital song, and No. 3 all genre digital song the week it was released.

Hayes will return to the “TODAY Show” on Friday, Aug. 5, to perform “Y’all Life” for the first time on National television as part of the Citi Summer Concert Series. The GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter’s appearance will also include smash hits “Fancy Like,” “AA” and beloved single “Craig.”

“Y’all Life” is a quintessential song about the easy-going, loosened-up way of life in the South. True to Hayes’ signature songwriting style, which Billboard praises as “personal, soul-bearing storylines; rolling rhymes; and Macklemore-like cadence,” the track is meant to celebrate life and living in the moment, even if that means things are a little messy… “that just means you’re busy livin’,” explains Hayes.

Written by Hayes, with Pete Good and Josh Jenkins, as well as original Country Grammar writers Cornell Haynes Jr. (Nelly) and Jason Epperson and produced by Hayes with “Fancy Like” collaborator Joe Thibodeau, and multi-GRAMMY Award winner Shane McAnally, “Y’all Life,” continues Hayes’ tradition of releasing songs that reflect his personal experiences. “I’ve found the more I show people the ‘real,’ the more relatable it seems to be, so here’s to more stories about how y’all are livin’, too!”

This fall, Hayes will embark on his headlining arena tour, Glad You’re Here, named after the book he co-wrote with best friend Craig Allen Cooper. The book tells the story of the beloved Hayes track “Craig” and details Hayes’ journey to finding Christ. Tickets are available at WalkerHayes.com.

The Glad You’re Here Tour:

9/29 – 1st Summit Arena, Johnstown, PA
9/30 – Visions Veterans Memorial Arena, Binghamton, NY
10/1 – Mountain Health Arena, Huntington, WV
10/7 – Santander Arena, Reading, PA
10/8 – DCU Center, Worcester, MA
10/13 – Dow Event Center Arena, Saginaw, MI
10/14 – Corbin Arena, Corbin, KY
10/15 – Covelli Centre, Youngstown, OH
10/21 – Alliant Energy Powerhouse, Cedar Rapids, IA
10/22 – Danny Sanford Premiere Center, Sioux Falls, SD
11/5 – Mechanics Bank Arena, Bakersfield, CA
11/7 – The Greek, Los Angeles, CA
11/10 – Spokane Arena, Spokane, WA
11/11 – Theater of the Clouds, Portland, OR
11/12 – Angel Of the Winds Arena, Everett, WA

ABOUT WALKER HAYES:
Monument Records recording artist Walker Hayes is a singer/songwriter originally from Mobile, Alabama. Last year, his smash hit “Fancy Like” topped every country music sales and streaming chart, spent more than six months at the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart, hit the top 5 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Songs, hit No. 1 at country radio, and gave Hayes his first GRAMMY Award nomination as an artist for Best Country Song. The song was also featured in a nationwide Applebee’s commercial. That track, as well as follow up single “AA,” and new song “Y’all Life ,” have made Hayes one of the top selling and streamed artists in country music.

Hayes has performed his music, including the Double-Platinum RIAA certified hit “You Broke Up With Me,” to national audiences on Good Morning America, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and TODAY, and he was profiled for CBS Sunday Morning. This fall, he sets out on his headlining arena tour, the Glad You’re Here tour, which is the same title as the book he released with his best friend, Craig Allen Cooper, detailing his journey to finding Christ.

Dalton Dover Announces Ole Red Residency Kicking Off Tonight at Ole Red Nashville

On the heels of his Luke Combs x Whiskey Jam Bootleggers Tailgate Party performance at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., Spotify Hot Country 2022 Artist to Watch Dalton Dover announces his residency at Ole Red, kicking off tonight, Tuesday, August 2 at 6:30pm CT at Ole Red Nashville. Dover will perform every Tuesday evening in August at Ole Red Nashville, along with dates at Ole Red Orlando and Ole Red Gatlinburg. Full itinerary below.

Last month, the 23-year-old achieved yet another marker in a series of milestones, earning a nomination for MusicRow’s Discovery Artist of the Year, following the release of “Hear About A Girl.”

Written by Adam Craig, Michael Carter and Jim McCormick, and produced by Matt McV, “Hear About A Girl” showcases the Georgia-native’s dynamic vocals, with MusicRow sharing the song is “beautifully done,” giving him “the space to stretch his range and volume,” while also praising, “We’re the presence of a master country talent when this man sings. Make him a star. Now.”

Released via industry vet Jim Catino’s Droptine Recordings, “Hear About a Girl” is the follow-up to Dover’s debut songs “You Got A Small Town” and “Baby I Am,” garnering critical acclaim from Billboard, sharing “he infuses his brand of country with a bluesy intensity,” and earning a spotlight as February’s Country Rookie of the Month. He was also named Country Now “Country Next” artist, sharing “Dover’s country music career may be just beginning, but his star is quickly catching fire.”

Dover is set to release new music later this year. For the latest follow along on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Facebook.

Dalton Dover’s Ole Red Residency Dates
Aug. 2 Ole Red Nashville (Acoustic) at 6:30pm
Aug. 9 Ole Red Nashville (Acoustic) at 6:30pm
Aug. 11 Ole Red Orlando (Acoustic) at 6pm
Aug. 16 Ole Red Nashville (Acoustic) at 6:30pm
Aug. 18 Ole Red Gatlinburg (Acoustic) at 7pm
Aug. 23 Ole Red Nashville (Acoustic) at 6:30pm
Aug. 30 Ole Red Nashville (Full Band) at 8pm

About Dalton Dover
Twenty-three-year-old Dalton Dover first started singing at church as a kid, winning his fifth-grade school talent show performing Justin Bieber’s “Baby.” In that moment Dover’s love of performing was born. By the age of 16 he had picked up a guitar and started teaching himself to play, yet it was his grandfather who turned him on to country music and artists such as Keith Whitley, Rhett Akins, Joe Diffie and Steve Wariner. Enamored with the honesty and storytelling found in country music, Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes” was the first song Dover taught himself to play on guitar. Performances at local bars soon followed along with sharing covers of some of his favorite songs on TikTok. It was there he caught the ear of producer Matt McV and A&R Veteran and founder of Droptine Recordings, Jim Catino, who quickly signed Dover.

Married to his high school sweetheart, Faith, the two have lived in the same rural Georgia small town, population 1,200, all their lives, important for the Dovers to give their two young children, Taylor and Alyiah, the same idyllic childhood they had growing up — the life one finds in a small town. And it’s that pace and familiarity he enjoys so much that he sings about on his debut track “You Got a Small Town.” Produced by McV and available now on Droptine, “You Got A Small Town” earned praise from Billboard, sharing “the song’s tale is lifted by blazing guitar lines and Dover's soaring vocals, transforming the track into a smoky love letter to small towns” with MusicRow calling it “an impressive debut, reminiscent of the titanic Luke Combs.” With this debut track and follow-up “Baby I Am” earning notable playlisting, Dover was named a Spotify Hot Country 2022 Artist to Watch. His latest release “Hear About A Girl” is available now. Dover is set to release new music throughout the remainder of 2022. For the latest follow along on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Facebook.

CHEZ KANE ANNOUNCES NEW STUDIO ALBUM "POWERZONE"

Frontiers Music Srl is proud to announce the upcoming release of 'Powerzone', the second album from red hot rock singer Chez Kane - out October 21, 2022. The album follows Chez's incredibly well-received self-titled debut, which was released last year.

Fans of Chez's debut can expect all the things they loved about that album, this time turned up to 11, to once again delight them on 'Powerzone'! A new single and music video from the album, titled "I Just Want You", is out today.

Watch the music video below.

Fans can pre-order/save 'Powerzone' on CD/Color LP/Digital now. Chez will also be signing a limited number of vinyl (300) and CDs (300). 200 of each are available from Chez Kane's official webstore, while the remaining 100 of each will be available at tour dates after the album's release. The vinyl will be silver color and limited to 300 copies worldwide. Simply click the link for "Official Store" in this link: https://orcd.co/powerzone Limited edition gold vinyl is also available from the Frontiers' webstores, links for which you can find in the preceding link as well. 

Chez will also be signing a limited number of vinyl (300) and CDs (300). 200 of each are available from Chez Kane's official webstore, while the remaining 100 of each will be available at tour dates after the album's release. The vinyl will be silver color and limited to 300 copies worldwide. Simply click "Official Store" in this link: https://orcd.co/powerzone 

Limited edition gold vinyl is also available from the Frontiers' webstore, links for which you can find in the preceding link as well

Check out the previously released single "Powerzone" HERE:https://orcd.co/chezpower or HERE: https://youtu.be/eRWYhOTKlJk

A talented young vocalist who fronts, along with her two sisters, the band Kane'd, Chez was first brought to the attention of the label after conversations with Danny Rexon of Crazy Lixx about the possibility of him scouting and producing some exciting new talent. Subsequently, Danny started working on some demos with Chez and the label did not pass up the opportunity to get involved with this incredible talent. Chez's debut solo album embraced the melodic rock style that both she and Danny so admire, while adding a new twist to the current takes on the genre. "Powerzone" takes that formula and makes it bigger, better, and bolder.

Chez' star rose, and deservedly so, with the release of her self-titled debut album. Now, with 'Powerzone', she's really ready to launch into orbit. Armed with an incredible voice, a downright charming personality, a talented backing band, and the guiding hand of producer Danny Rexon, 'Powerzone' is primed to be THE melodic rock album of 2022.

LINE-UP:

Chez Kane - Vocals

Danny Rexon - All Instrumentation

Additional Musicians:

Jesse Molloy - Saxophone

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/ChezKaneVocalist

https://www.instagram.com/chez_kane

https://www.youtube.com/c/ChezKane

About Frontiers Music Srl:

Originally founded in Naples, Italy in 1996 by Serafino Perugino and his father Fernando as a distribution company, Frontiers has developed into one of the premiere independent rock labels in the world. Synonymous with quality music from across a broad spectrum of rock genres, the label has worked with multiple genre heavyweights and fan favorites. Aside from providing a home for classic artists from the '70s and '80s, the label has also become home to a wealth of young, up and coming talent that, with a savvy and forward thinking A&R and marketing approach, will be developed into the future of rock and metal. With a deep commitment to and passion for THE MUSIC and the artists who create it and massive global distribution, sales, marketing, and publicity channels, Frontiers is the premiere home for established and emerging rock artists. Head Office: Naples, IT | U.S. Office: Philadelphia, PA

ATLive Returns for Year Three Headlined by Billy Joel & Chris Stapleton, Plus Lionel Richie, Miranda Lambert & More

ATLive RETURNS FOR THIRD YEAR
AS THE ULTIMATE CONCERT EXPERIENCE

Billy Joel and Chris Stapleton to Headline Mercedes-Benz Stadium
November 11-12, 2022

Also Starring Lionel Richie, Miranda Lambert, Sheryl Crow, Dwight Yoakam and Katie Pruitt

AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE) is once again bringing the hottest artists under one roof for one of the most exciting multi-day music events in the Southeast, as ATLive powered by Ticketmaster returns to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Friday, November 11 and Saturday, November 12.

The third annual concert experience will once again feature iconic artists from both Country and Rock on back-to-back nights. Friday’s lineup features performances by the legendary Billy Joel, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Lionel Richie and nine-time GRAMMY winner Sheryl Crow, while Saturday features eight-time GRAMMY winner Chris Stapleton, reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year Miranda Lambert, 21-time nominated, multiple GRAMMY Award winner Dwight Yoakam and rising star Katie Pruitt.

Tickets for each night go on sale Friday, August 12 at 10 a.m. ET via Ticketmaster.

“We are proud to announce an incredible lineup of artists for ATLive,” said Tim Zulawski, senior vice president and chief revenue officer, AMB Sports and Entertainment. “The ATLive concert series has quickly become a must-see event for Atlanta and the Southeast, delivering a world-class experience at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with some of the greatest artists of this generation.”

ATLive, a multi-genre concert series developed and promoted by AMB Sports and Entertainment, is the premier destination concert series for the city of Atlanta and the Southeast. In its first two years, ATLive, the first self-promoted concert series for AMBSE, brought together sold-out Mercedes-Benz Stadium audiences to enjoy incredible music from George Strait, Metallica, Luke Combs, Eric Church, Cage The Elephant, Greta Van Fleet, Blake Shelton, Keith Urban and more. ATLive powered by Ticketmaster is produced by AMBSE with Messina Touring Group overseeing production of shows.

To learn more about the two-night event, visit mercedesbenzstadium.com/ATLive. Follow along online at #ATLive.

About Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Opened in August 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a world-class sports and entertainment venue in downtown Atlanta and home to the National Football League’s Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United. The multi-purpose stadium was named the 2019 Sports Facility of the Year and is host to major sports and entertainment events, including the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship, 2018 MLS All-Star Game and Super Bowl LIII. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the first professional sports stadium in North America to achieve LEED Platinum Certification by the United States Green Building Council. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is proud to be collaborating with naming rights partner Mercedes-Benz and 13 founding partners, which include Coca-Cola, Equifax, The Home Depot, Novelis, SCANA Energy, Truist, IBM, Georgia Power, American Family Insurance and Global Payments. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Artist Bios Linked Below
Sheryl Crow
Billy Joel
Miranda Lambert
Katie Pruitt
Lionel Richie
Chris Stapleton
Dwight Yoakam

HIEROPHANT Shares New Single, "Devil Incarnate"

Italian death metal band HIEROPHANT will be releasing a brand new full-length, 'Death Siege,' on August 26, 2022 via Season of Mist! The band is now sharing the second new single, "Devil Incarnate," at THIS LOCATION.

HIEROPHANT comments on the track: "Devil Incarnate. Eternal death descending on us. Gathering forces to the victory. Eternal death forever."

Pre-orders are now available from the Season of Mist shop HERE.

The album can be pre-saved on your preferred streaming platform HERE.

“Controlled chaos?” Lorenzo pauses for a song before finally looking right through you with his piercing eyes and slowly answering: “yes, I like the sound of that, it sums up pretty much what they stand for. Chaos with a sense if you will.”

The guitarist and vocalist of the Ravena-based band HIEROPHANT isn’t one to bury you under bigmouth statements and empty words. But when he says he thinks Death Siege is “the best thing we ever did and the one album when HIEROPHANT really comes on its own”, you know he means it.

Since their previous album, and first for SEASON OF MIST, Mass Grave in 2016 - originally described as a “vicious” mix of black sludge and death metal - many things have happened. It started with the release two years later of a two-track EP called Spawned Abortions “a good indication of where we were going but still not quite there”.

The band’s fourth full-length Death Siege was written during the first months of the pandemic, from March 2020 until May 2021, a dark period described by Lorenzo as a “long fucking long process but it was worth it. Until then, we were maybe missing a bit proper song structures and arrangements. In retrospect, Mass Grave is more grind-ish whereas the new is far more metal and riff-oriented. The songs are longer and have more things happening in them, the album is overall far more ambitious and more, well, musical

He concedes that HIEROPHANT started out more or less as “some kind of hardcore band, but with metal influences”, especially since Lorenzo has been also playing bass for THE SECRET since 2011, even if they haven’t been “very active” for a couple of years. “With HIEROPHANT, we actually signed our first contract originally with a hardcore/punk focused label called BRIDGE NINE. Originally, we had another line-up with a fulltime singer and we sounded like a very pissed off D-beat/crust band. But already in the back of my head, I had other plans. And when our frontman left in 2015, I took over the microphone as well and that’s when we started to evolve. To me, Mass Grave was a transitional record, it caught us midway if you will. But now with Death Siegewe’ve finally reached our destination. And while we made a name of ourselves in the scene, I believe it’s truly the album that will take us a step further.”

Death Siege is full of war metaphors, lyrics about complete annihilation (‘Seeds Of Vengeance’, ‘Devils Incarnate’, Bloodbath Compendium’ etc.) and “fire, hatred and endless void. The sub-title for it could have been ‘impending doom’, it’s like you know something awful it’s going to happen and sweep the plate clean but no matter how hard you try, you won’t be able to stop it. That’s how I want the listeners to feel when they listen to this record.” He pauses before adding with his iron will look, “one could say that the album general state-of-mind is ‘no mercy, kill everybody’. Yep, that sums it up about right.” Are you ready?

Recording Line-up:
Lorenzo Gulminelli: Rythm guitars, vocals
Fabio Carretti: Lead guitars
Gianmaria Mustillo: Bass
Alessandro Vagnoni: Drums

Line-up:
Lorenzo Gulminelli: Rythm guitars, vocals
Fabio Carretti: Lead guitars
Gianmaria Mustillo: Bass
Ben Tellarini: Drums

Recording Studio:
‘Death Siege’ has been recorded in Italy between June and July 2021.
Drums at Duna Studio, Russi (RA). Guitars, Bass and Vocals at SNK Studio, Ferrara (FE).

Produced by:
Hierophant & Alex Conti + Recorded by Alex Conti
Mixed by:
Alex Conti

Artwork: Abomination Hammer

Pre-sale: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/CBP-Banefyre
Pre-save: https://orcd.co/hierophant-deathsiege

Formats:
CD Jewelcase
12” black vinyl
Merchandise

Burden of the Sky Release the Official Music Video for "The Flood"; Announce Tour with Sevendust!

Burden of the Sky Link Tree:

linktr.ee/burdenofthesky

Burden of the Sky released the official music video for their single "The Flood." The band will be touring on Sevendust’s “Animosity Tour” in September of 2022.

"When we began writing 'The Flood' we were in a dark headspace. We were angry and mournful after the passing of our guitarist and founding member Bradford Shaw. Our only goal was to write a song that we could pour our soul and emotions into in honor of our fallen brother. Once we had a demo put together, we reached out to Blake (SAUL) and Morgan (Sevendust) and told them our story. We asked them to contribute their own experiences and emotions to the song and the result was better than we could have ever asked for," says Scottie James.

He adds, “'The Flood' is symbolic of all of the struggles in life, our demons that try to bring us down and swallow us whole; the ever-looming darkness and misery that is held back by our own will that inevitably will come crashing through the second we let our guard down. This song is our way of saying we will stand our ground — strong, fierce, and determined — in solidarity against anything life throws our way; even though we know we cannot win, we will fight for what we believe in until our last breath."

Burden of the Sky is an alternative metal band hailing from Bloomington, IL. Formed in 2012 by Josh Appel and the late Brad Shaw, the band has built itself as one of the most well known bands in the Midwest. Led by lead singer Scottie James and guitarist Josh Appel, the band has performed across the Midwest and beyond with many of today’s hottest active rock bands. With a lineup rounded out by drummer Rick Streeter, bassist Dustin Tritsch, guitarist and backing vocalist TJ Duckwiler , and keyboardist Mike Mahoney, “BOTS” regularly leaves fans begging for more once they leave the stage.

Having hit the stage with acts such as Sevendust, Ice Nine Kills, A Day To Remember, I Prevail, Nothing More, Asking Alexandria and more, the band continues to show they belong on the big stage. Their debut album, Cinis Ad Cinis, featured the single “Same Old Page”, which has amassed millions of streams since its 2017 release. Sophomore album Sine Timore was led by “Sirens”, which was featured on many top Spotify playlists, gaining over a million streams. Most recently, the band released a cover of Ellie Goulding’s “Lights”, as well as original single “Whiteout”, which was featured on Apple Music’s “Breaking Hard Rock” playlist.

2022 will bring multiple single releases that were produced and co-written with the likes of Morgan Rose (Sevendust) and Ricky Armellino (Ice Nine Kills, Hawk), including the newest single “The Flood” featuring Rose and Blake Bedsaul (Saul).

Burden of the Sky is:
Scottie James - Lead Vocals
Josh Appel - Guitar
TJ Duckwiler - Guitar/Vocals
Rick Streeter - Drums
Dustin Tritsch - Bass
Mike Mahoney - Keys

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

YouTube

ETCHED IN EMBERS Confront Fear and Unites Fans with New Single and Music Video!

Lake of the Ozarks Missouri based Heavy Rock / Metal band ETCHED IN EMBERS has released the official music video for their new single, "Fear'! The song plunges the listener through a mix of emotions, from despair and confusion to strength and revolution. Going from the pumping and driven intro and verses, to the swaying release of the chorus, capped off with a signature Tyler Kenyon guitar solo, the song hits all the right feels, and is a much needed anthem for today's world.

The single was produced by Chris Dawson (SAUL, Any Given Sin, Lines of Loyalty), with the video filmed / directed by J.T. Ibanez, "Fear" is the band's third single with more slated to release throughout the rest of 2022.

"Life has been very difficult for a lot of people. Fear has been this massive weight that people need to shed as they return to normal life, and we want to be there singing this song with them as they do." - Russell Rhodenizer

Click to Buy / Stream "Fear" Online

With a heavy slate of shows this summer with bands such as Badflower, 10 Years, Any Given Sin, Kingdom Collapse, Picturesque, Outline in Color, Archers, Atrifas, and more, the band is ecstatic that shows / tours have resumed to normal levels.

"This gives us back the opportunity to share face to face in the emotion a song like 'Fear' creates within our fans," added Rhodenizer.

Catch ETCHED IN EMBERS Live:
08/06 @ RIVERFEST w/Badflower, 10 Years,Any Given Sin - Quincy, IL
08/21 @ Next Gen Fest w/Messer, Emporers & Angels, More - Moline, IL
09/03 @ Sutherslam 2022 w/Saul and Till Hill - Sutherland, IA
09/09 @ Wooleys w/All Thinks Lost, Awakening Force, GATA - Des Moines, IA
09/23 @ Hogs and Frogs Fest - Waynesville, MO
09/24 @ TBA - Lebanon, MO
10/23 @ Rascals Live - Moline, IL
03/23 @ Apocolypse In The Desert - Las Vegas, NV

Click for Additional Dates & Ticketing Information.

CHAPTER ONE

Missouri Based Rockers Etched in Embers burst onto the scene in Jan. of 2020. After spending the early months of their existence working to lay the foundation of their debut album, they were faced, as many others, with the world coming to a screeching halt. Enter the Pandemic that gripped the Nation, World, and the Music Industry squarely in its clutches.

As uncertainty set in, the band decided to batten down and forge ahead behind the scenes, working around the new found obstacles laid out in front of them. Battling close calls with Covid-19, the lockdowns, and the inability to play shows, they began seeking avenues to continue work on their much anticipated debut. The Band, as fans of many of the up and coming artists that grace the Airwaves of SiriusXM Octane, as well as Radio Stations across the country, sought out the person that was instrumental in helping some of these Artists reach the next level.

Enter Chris Dawson(SAUL, Any Given Sin, Lines of Loyalty, As Strange As Angels). "Working with Chris has been an amazing experience. Not only from the musical side, but the entire Brand Building Package", says Russ Rhodenizer. "It was definitely a new and unfamiliar experience working remotely, without ever meeting Chris, or stepping foot in his studio. He made that a remarkably easy process, and we knew we were in good hands. Taking the raw tracks we had recorded back in February, Chris worked his magic, arranging and producing, turning "Sail the Silence" into a Monster, Anthemic Rock Single.

The song is Rhodenizers take on the need to disconnect from all the "noise" and "dissonance" we experience in our social media worlds. "I had to learn to not engage or debate in these online environments. It can be quite damaging to our state of mind to be surrounding ourselves with all the discontent and division. Sail the Silence is the term I used when faced with those situations. It is very empowering to be able to scroll past the wolves that attempt to bait you in", states Rhodenizer.

"Sail the Silence" pairs soaring harmonies and powerful lyrics, over hypnotic guitar work to pull the Listener in, and take them for a ride.

CHAPTER TWO

Etched in Embers rolled in to 2021 with some steam afforded by the success they saw with "Sail the Silence". Continuing the march toward their debut album, they entered the studio once again with Dawson, to work together co-writing the aggressive and passionate "Bring Me Back". Hitting Airwaves on July 27th, 2021, this rocker touches upon some heavy human emotion by way of a monster riff opening, a pumping rhythmic feel, and reeling it all in with a powerfully delivered chorus.

CHAPTER THREE

2022 is shaping up to be a great year. As the Band prepares to release their highly anticipated Anthemic New Single 'Fear', along with the thought invoking accompanying video shot by the talented J.T. Ibanez, the focus is hitting the road and connecting with the fans. Etched in Embers will be out supporting bands such as Badflower, 10 Years, Any Given Sin, Kingdom Collapse, The L.I.F.E. Project, Archers, Messer and more.

Lead Ad Agency, The Mediatwist Group, Announce Their Latest Project ...The Virtual Talking Record Label in Metaverse, Producing Music Videos for Top Grossing Artists

In 2006, power couple Aimee and Chris Kurtz started building their ad agency in “the backstage of the world” in Lititz, PA . It has rapidly grown into the leading ad agency in multiple industries besides entertainment, including healthcare, automotive and even restaurants. The company makes use of social media marketing to build brands. This strategy has proven instrumental in the success of many artists and companies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris Kurtz, a marketing genius, uses tools and techniques that he's created to push the biggest brands in the world further in their respected industries. Now he's here to share his knowledge with every business wanting to grow.

TMG have worked with the powerhouse brands like Feld Entertainment who put on shows such as Disney on Ice, Barnum & Bailey Circus, Monster Jam, Supercross, and Marvel Universe Live. TMG's ad campaigns have resulted in sold out arenas across the country.

Recently, the couple launched The Virtual Talking Record Label (VTMC) where they are working on several large projects to produce music videos for iconic and top grossing artists like Sammy Hagar and the Circle. They are creating music videos and capturing live performances in 3D through the art of avatar creation, so that future generations will be afforded the unique opportunity to see artists from the past perform live.

The Virtual Talking Record Label made history when Sammy Hagar and the Circle flew in to Lititz, PA, in April of this year (2022) to film four music videos in ONE day at the "backstage of the world," Rock Lititz, a massive campus that includes multiple facilities to help fuel the innovative and creative mind. This is something that has never been done before, especially on a shoe string budget. VTMC's mission is to create historic filmaking in never before used spaces.

On July 29, 2022, Sammy Hagar and the Circle released their single "Crazy Times" along with the video that was shot at Rock Lititz. The video can be seen below.

At a later date, Sammy Hagar and the Circle's homage to Elvis Costello's "Pump it Up" video will be released. The director at VTMC used similar angles to capture the essence of the original.

"This project signals the start of a new dawn for TMG in AR/VR and takes us another step closer to leaving our mark on the tech and entertainment sectors.", Aimee Lankford Kurtz, TMG Vice President. The Mediatwist Group recently partnered with tech giant, Microsoft and their AR/VR arm, Avatar Dimension. “We are thrilled to partner up with the unique marketing mind of Chris Kurtz and his MediaTwist team,” said Sovanna Mam, head of production for Avatar Dimension. “Life like 3D holograms and avatars are no longer a dream of the past, they exist today and artists and musicians will begin entertaining in a new digital landscape. Chris is positioned to bridge the digital gap between big brands and big acts in this exciting new medium. Thrilled to have Chris as one of the tech’s biggest evangelists!”

Lititz, PA, the coolest small town in America, is also the home to some of the world's biggest brands in the entertainment industry such as Clair Brothers, Atomic, and TAIT.

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

The Mediatwist Group Locations

KARAMELIEN debuts single 'Ascension Heights' feat. YARDBIRDS legend TOP TOPHAM

'One of the best singles so far in 2022, this is a true work of beauty and professionalism, taking you to your very own ascension heights" ~ Amplify Music Magazine

UK-based soulful indie pop duo Karamelien present their debut single 'Ascension Heights', a laid-back and groovy summer tune inspired by and featuring Top Topham's track of the same name. While technically a new project, this soaring perfect pop offering actually has a rich and touching backstory.

Based in East Grinstead, Karamelien is made up of singer-songwriter Léanie Kaleido and guitarist Mark Foster - two long-time friends. The breezy heartened video, created by Eveshka Ghost, perfectly captures the elevated spirit of this song and its creators.

'Ascension Heights' samples the track of the same name by Léanie's father Top Topham, the original founding guitarist of The Yardbirds before Eric Claptonassumed his place. After all, while he may have been ahead of his years musically, he was actually just 15 and his parents wanted him to finish his Art studies. Topham would eventually sign to Mike Vernon's Blue Horizon record label as a solo artist. Much later, he also re-joined The Yardbirds for part of their 50th anniversary tour, which took place several years ago.

Produced by RIDE frontman Mark Gardener at OX4 Sound near Oxford, this song features an appearance by a special guest bassist - Mo Pleasure, formerly of Earth, Wind & Fire, whose CV also includes performances with Ray Charles, Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson, among others.

"I met Mark Foster in my twenties through a mutual friend, when he started to play my songs live with me. My first album's title 'Karamelien' was made up as an anagram of both of our names’. I also like it as an artist name, so decided to go with it as Mark and I are now back playing together again," says Léanie Kaleido.

"We took my quirky but melodic songwriting style and introduced a more bass and beats-driven sound á la Morcheeba, Portishead, Massive Attack, etc. I'm just focusing on having fun with my songs now and drawing on my influences from both indie and hip hop, but always influenced by classic songwriters. such as Elton John and Joan Armatrading."

Indeed, this project brings Léanie Kaleido's music into new exciting territory. More firmly in singer-songwriter territory was her 2021 critically acclaimed album 'How To Weigh A Whale Without A Scale', also produced by Mark Gardener at OX4 Sound.

"Ascension Heights' is a really moving Father / Daughter work of beauty. A total pleasure and honour to work on... A hot tune for the hot summer for sure," says Mark Gardener.

With guidance from Paul Statham (Dido, Simple Minds, Kylie Minogue, Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Rachel Stevens, Natalie Imbruglia) in sampling her father's track, Kaleido performed the pre-production work on this song from home, saying this "was a great feeling and allowed me more room to experiment with hip-hop beats".

'Ascension Heights' is out now, available everywhere online, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Written by Léanie Kaleido
Léanie Kaleido - vocals, piano, keys, programming, arrangements
Guitar and intro sample (with permission from Blue Horizon Records) from Top Topham's 'Ascension Heights'
Mark Foster - guitars
Mo Pleasure - bass
Recorded and produced by Mark Gardener at OX4 Sound
Additional production by Joolz Dunkley
Mastered by Turan Audio
Top Topham sample permitted by Blue Horizon Records.
Video and artist photography by Eveshka Ghost


Keep up with Karamelian
Bandcamp | Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music

SATOR - New Album 'Return of The Barbie-Q-Killers' OUT NOW

After 28 years it's finally here - Sator - Return of The Barbie-Q-Killers.

In 1994, Sator released the cover album 'Barbie-Q-Killers', where the band made their own versions of obscure punk songs! The album quickly became a favourite among the band's fans and the desire / demand for a sequel has haunted them ever since. After 28 years of waiting, it's finally here - Sator - Return of The Barbie-Q-Killers!

Sator’s Chips Kiesbye comments:

"Here it is! 'Return of The Barbie-Q Killers'. It only took us 25 years to record it.

It must be some kind of world record for a punk album. I won’t go into the reasons why it took so long but there are no short cuts to perfection I’ve heard. Like the 'Barbie-Q Killers Volume 1' album from 1994, it’s a tribute to the music and the bands we grew up with. A celebration of the punk and new wave scene 1976-1982. This is the music that made us start a band in the first place.

Punk will never die!"

Buy and listen to the album: https://orcd.co/return-of-the-barbie-q-killers

THE HIRSCH EFFEKT Share New Single + Video "Palingenesis"

German progressive metal trio The Hirsch Effekt have released their new single "Palingenesis", along with a music video. The new track is the second single taken from their upcoming EP 'Solitaer', out August 26th, 2022 via Long Branch Records.

Stream PALINGENESIS here: https://thehirscheffekt.lnk.to/solitaer

Watch the video below.

The Hirsch Effekt bassist Ilja John Lappin on PALINGENESIS:

"PALINGENESIS is my contribution to the SOLITAER EP, on which each band member wrote a song. It's the memory of a path that I inevitably had to take. When life as we knew it suddenly came to a stop with the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was forced to confront a very dark place that I had mentally arrived at. A crisis of purpose, sealed by a cycle of loneliness and depression as well as the tireless and at the same time unstable routine of the previous years, unfolded with full force in a new, unknown surrounding. During this long period of isolation, I took a desperately needed break for myself. In able to stop. In able to understand who I actually had become over the years and where I had landed in life. PALINGENESIS is a hymn to the battle itself. To your own strength, of which you're often sure you no longer have, especially when greater, darker clouds are gathering on the horizon once again. A hymn to the fight back to your own heartbeat."

PRE-ORDER 'SOLITAER' HERE

'SOLITAER' will be released as limited and serially numbered LP Edition incl. black vinyl, Exclusive Napalm Records Shop Edition incl. colored vinyl, CD Edition incl. both 'SOLITAER' and 'GREGAER' EP's, stream and download. The Hirsch Effekt's latest vinyl EP 'GREGAER' is now available again as a limited reissue with red colored LP.

All formats are available for pre-order here: https://thehirscheffekt.lnk.to/solitaer

The Hirsch Effekt are:

Nils Wittrock (Guitar, Vocals)

Ilja John Lappin (Bass, Vocals)

Moritz Schmidt (Drums, Vocals)

For More Info Visit:

https://www.facebook.com/thehirscheffekt

https://www.instagram.com/thehirscheffekt

http://www.thehirscheffekt.de

KID KAPICHI REVEAL VIDEO FOR NEW SINGLE "5 DAYS ON (2 DAYS OFF)"

NEW ALBUM 'HERE'S WHAT YOU COULD HAVE WON' ARRIVES SEPTEMBER 23

Hastings-based four-piece Kid Kapichi have revealed brand new single "5 Days On (2 Days Off)" with an accompanying music video. Watch it below.

Frontman Jack Wilson explains, "'5 Days On (2 Days Off)' is an homage to some of our fans who work their arses off every day, then spend all their free money and time on going to gigs. Doing that is what gets them through."

The new album 'Here's What You Could Have Won' will be released on September 23 via Spinefarm. These 11 new songs are an excellent showcase for the band's bigger, punchier, "beat punk" sound, co-produced with Dom Craik from Nothing But Thieves. Featuring comeback single "New England" — their most explicitly political song yet, with a searing guest verse from Bob Vylan — and Partygatepolemic "Party at No. 10," which was praised by Liam Gallagher on Twitter, leading to Gallagher to ask the band to support him at London's Royal Albert Hall.

A behemoth of a band on and off stage thanks to the Hastings scene that nurtured them, Kid Kapichi's best songs explore racism, in-work poverty, mental health, violence, frustration, and all-consuming love with honesty and humor. All their songs come studded with barbed wire hooks, bristling with the juddering shock of lived experience, and the cathartic thrill of a balled-up fist relaxing into an air punch. 

"The title, 'Here's What You Could Have Won', sums up the feeling of missed opportunity,"says Wilson. "Being dragged right at a junction when you know you should be going left or screaming at the TV whilst someone picks the wrong answer on a game show. It looks inwardly at the UK and the decisions that have been made and how they have affected us all."

Lead guitarist Ben Beetham adds, "It's not a concept album but it does have a running theme. We like to write songs about current affairs and what direction the world seems to be turning. As a result, we write as close to the deadline as possible to keep it relevant."

KID KAPICHI ARE: 

Ben Beetham — Guitars + Vocals

Eddie Lewis — Bass

George Macdonald — Drums

Jack Wilson — Vocals + Guitars

Spinefarm Records:

https://www.facebook.com/spinefarm

https://twitter.com/Spinefarm

http://www.spinefarmrecords.com/usa/

https://instagram.com/spinefarmrecords/

https://www.youtube.com/user/SpinefarmRec

Bullet For My Valentine Release "No More Tears to Cry"

DELUXE EDITION OF SELF-TITLED ALBUM OUT AUGUST 5

Bullet For My Valentine will release the deluxe version of their current, self-titled album on August 5 via Spinefarm/Search and Destroy. Pre-order the deluxe here. The band's self-titled album — their seventh — finds them at their most visceral.

Today, they have released the new single "No More Tears to Cry." Listen here. 

 

"We're super happy to announce our new single 'No More Tears to Cry' is out," the band says. "The song is a dark but colorful story about dealing with mental health struggles. Musically, the track is very different from the other tracks on the album and has a lot of surprises on there, including slide guitar..."

The extended release features four brand new tracks, plus "Stitches," a song previously only available as a Japanese exclusive. Watch the video here.

The vinyl arrives on November 11, featuring five additional tracks.

BLACKRAIN Announce New Album 'Untamed' - Out November 25, 2022

Sometimes it takes a few years until a band finds that perfect sound they have in mind for their songs. For the new album ‘Untamed’ by the French Sleaze Rockers BlackRain, that’s exactly the case. Although already established as a band with their six previous releases and also very successful on tour (among others with Europe, Alice Cooper, Scorpions or Steel Panther), the quartet around singer Swan now presents a work that sets new quality standards in every aspect. “We love the powerful sound, the banging drums, this awesome mix of catchy melodies and aggression that permeates ‘Untamed’ from the very beginning,” bassist Matthieu de la Roche enthuses and goes on naming the producer of the new quality work: Hannes Braun, frontman of the German hard rockers Kissin` Dynamite and an important figure in sound engineering. De la Roche: “Hannes told us: ´I love your songs, your show really has excited me, I know exactly how your next record should sound!` Thanks to his help, we found the sound we’ve been looking for for ten years.”

The connection between the French group and their German producer was practically self-evident: BlackRain accompanied Kissin` Dynamite on their last European tour and they were friends for about a decade. “Kissin Dynamite was our support band in 2009 in a big gig in Paris. Now we are supporting them, and we are fine with this because it allowed us to cross Europe and catch a new public,” tells De La Roche. Out of this friendship sprang a fruitful collaboration. Swan, the singer and frontman: “I honestly don't know how Hannes managed it, but whenever I sent him a new song for review and mix, he found that perfect last piece of the puzzle to refine it.”

The ambition is palpable in ‘Untamed’, which will also be the first single/first video on July 29th, 2022. Three more songs will be released after the first single: ‘Summer Jesus’ will be released on August 26th, 2022, followed by ‘Neon Drift’ on September 30th (with a guest solo by Kissin` Dynamite guitarist Jim Müller), and ‘Kiss The Sky’ on October 28th, 2022. With ‘Untamed’ (the cover artwork is done by the Asian graphic artist Yellow Mushi) BlackRain has definitely created a small masterpiece!

The new album 'Untamed' will be released on November 25, 2022 via SPV / Steamhammer as CD DigiPak, 2LP version, CD/LP bundle with shirt (only at the Steamhammer shop), download and stream: https://blackrain.lnk.to/Untamed

BLACKRAIN SOCIAL MEDIA:

http://blackrain.fr

https://www.facebook.com/BlackRainRock

https://www.facebook.com/SPVsteamhammer 

Heavy Hypnotic Rock Masters MY SLEEPING KARMA Celebrate Album Release with Stunning Music Video!

Closing a seven-year gap since their latest studio album, Moksha, today, heavy hypnotic rock act MY SLEEPING KARMA celebrates their brand new album, entitled Atma, which is out now on Napalm Records.

From the album’s first tone, it’s immediately evident that Atma isn’t just another new MY SLEEPING KARMA record – it’s an infinite darkness, despair and sadness that furiously drives the German four-piece on studio album number six, marking the band’s darkest, most emotional and deep record to date.

In celebration of today’s release, MY SLEEPING KARMA have shared a new music video for the otherworldly single 'Avatara’, which shines in synth post-rock grandeur that bridges majestic, exotic texture and mesmerizing dynamics!

Drummer Steffen states: "As many other sanskrit words Avatara has also several corresponding meanings. Avatara means the descent, the coming down, like the appearance itself. But it could also be used to describe an opportunity or the coming to light. In this sense Avatara is the perfect word to reveal our new album "Atma" and bring this finally to light."

Watch the new MY SLEEPING KARMA video for 'Avatara'

As many artists have experienced, the past two years hit the entire music and culture industry hard. But MY SLEEPING KARMA – they have truly faced the abyss. Formed almost 20 years ago as a strong bond of best friends with a steady line-up ever since, the band has amassed an incredibly successful back catalogue of five highly acclaimed records and a live album in 2017, as well as extensive touring performances at sold-out venues and prestigious festivals that have marked them as one of the most well-respected instrumental post- and hypnotic rock bands within the heavy music community. 

Atma describes the (absolute) self, the indestructible, eternal essence of the spirit, and is often translated as the "soul". Sickness, death, and existential fear had brought the band to a point in music and life at which they were close to parting ways. But their will to survive has been recorded on Atma – a record the band wasn’t even sure would see the light of day when they started working on it back in 2017, and if it did, would’ve never been for industry sales, fame or success. Atma tells the story of their lives, processing the trauma of personal tragedies, deepest pain and fear of four best friends that have been going through their darkest days since their band existence. 

"We already started working on the video content back in 2018. The world is full of hate, envy, fear and greed and it seems the competition never stops,” the band comments.

"Society is becoming more and more lost in a dog eat dog jungle, and back then we would have never thought that in 2022, it would be even worse. Besides the latest pandemic or the Russian/Ukrainian war, so many individuals are facing massive conflicts on a daily basis.

In the end, there´s always hope that the world will become better again, once mankind understands. Love is the key and peace starts inside of everyone. The video track ‘Prema’ tells that story and the entire album is all about this. "Atma" goes out with love to our dear families, friends and fans. Thanks for supporting us over the years and especially in the latest dark times.”

Atma was produced, recorded and mixed by drummer Steffen Weigand at New Life Studios, and was mastered by Andreas Balaskas at Masterlab Studios in Berlin. The incredible album artwork has been created by Sebastian Jerke. 

Purchase your album copy of Atma now at THIS LOCATION, available in the following formats:

- Digisleeve CD Edition 

- 1LP Gatefold Black & 12 Page Booklet 

- 1LP Gatefold & 12 Page Booklet GOLD LTD 300 Copies 

- 1LP Gatefold & 12 Page Booklet TRANSPARENT TURQUOISE PURPLE SPLATTER LTD 500 Copies 

- Vinyl Hardcover Book (1LP Gatefold CLEAR plus 10" Vinyl CLEAR (2 Bonus Tracks) - 48 Page Booklet LTD 500 Copies 

- Digisleeve CD Edition & Canvas Edition (Napalm EU Only) 

- Digisleeve CD Edition & Shirt (Napalm EU Only)

- Digital

MY SLEEPING KARMA is:

Matte – Bass

Seppi – Guitar

Steffen – Drums

Norman – Soundboard

For More Info Visit:

www.mysleepingkarma.de

www.facebook.com/MySleepingKarma

www.instagram.com/mysleepingkarmaofficial/

www.twitter.com/sleepingkarma

https://label.napalmrecords.com/my-sleeping-karma

BLIND GUARDIAN - Release New Single "Violent Shadows"

With today's single release, German metal giants BLIND GUARDIAN throw 'Violent Shadows' on these hot summer days. In this pulsing track, the band delivers another epic track foreshadowing the release of their new album The God Machine - out on September 2nd via Nuclear Blast Records. 'Violent Shadows' is an onslaught of thrashy riffs and relentless drumming, presenting itself as one of the most straightforward bangers of the album.

The song is supported by a performance video impressively capturing the band's live charisma. Serving as a perfect appetizer for BLIND GUARDIAN's live shows this summer and autumn, check out the video below.

Singer Hansi Kürsch states:
"Since our WWW Virtual Wacken Performance, 'Violent Shadows' threw a massive, already overpowering shade on the expectations of The God Machine. We were pretty aware of the effects that the number would develop. The message is quite clear in my opinion: We're able to go straightforward! With the single release, you get a very concise impression of the album's precision and intensity. Just one more thing: Everybody who thinks that the wait for the remaining five songs isn't worth it, is completely wrong! Every single song is a firework and shines even brighter in context. Remember my words, enjoy 'Violent Shadows', and pre-order The God Machine. Today, September 2nd's already yesterday."

The God Machine marks another pinnacle in BLIND GUARDIAN’s impressive discography by not attempting to pretend it is still the nineties yet instead successfully relying on the muscle memory of this period. It is a gripping, addictive, and brilliantly arranged album in the tradition of records with which BLIND GUARDIAN reached for the stars in the 90s; yet, by no means, is it a throwback. The God Machine represents the heart and soul of BLIND GUARDIAN’s timeless metal in the here and now, unifying the bards’ past, present, and future secrets in one consistent, well-thought-out masterpiece.

Pre-order the album here: http://nblast.de/BG-TheGodMachine

About BLIND GUARDIAN
In 1992, BLIND GUARDIAN released Somewhere Far Beyond, a legendary milestone of German speed metal. Three decades later, their latest offering, The God Machine, shows how to awaken the fury of youth to magical new life. As if they had paid a long overdue visit to the numerous highlights of their career, BLIND GUARDIAN appears to be in touch with the ghosts of their own past more than ever. "We’ve picked up a lot from our own history and built a new era upon this foundation," vocalist Hansi Kürsch explains. This new era begins right now. Seven years after Beyond The Red Mirror and almost three after the orchestral opus, Blind Guardian Twilight Orchestra: Legacy of the Dark Lands, Hansi Kürsch (vocals), André Olbrich (lead guitar, acoustic guitar, rhythm guitar), Marcus Siepen (rhythm guitar and acoustic guitar) and Frederik Ehmke(drums) invite you to their personal twilight of the gods."After ‘Beyond The Red Mirror’ and ‘Legacy Of The DarkLands’, we knew we couldn't push the orchestral side of BlindGuardian any further,” Kürsch says. The new directive while creating The God Machine was fairly straightforward but ever so welcome: "Less orchestration, more punch." In 2022, the opulent arrangements and powerful choirs still exist; yet they are used in a much more selective, focussed, and resonant manner.
This link is overtly present in the stunning, apocalyptic cover art by American fantasy icon Peter Mohrbacher, which teases a panopticon of fantastic tales and rather bleak prospects. “You have to look with a magnifying glass to find some hope on the album. But it's there," smiles Hansi Kürsch. "My lyrics have several levels. Some of them even I can only explore much later." Perhaps The God Machine is his most personal album since Somewhere Far Beyond.

Pre-order your copy of The God Machine, here: http://nblast.de/BG-TheGodMachine

Anti-Flag Announce New Album "Lies They Tell Our Children" + Share "Laugh. Cry. Smile. Die." Video

ANTI-FLAG ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM LIES THEY TELL OUR CHILDREN

ALBUM OUT JANUARY 6 VIA SPINEFARM

BAND SHARES "LAUGH. CRY. SMILE. DIE." FEAT. SILVERSTEIN'S SHANE TOLD — WATCH

Incendiary Pittsburgh punk rockers ANTI-FLAG will release their 13th album Lies They Tell Our Children on January 6 via Spinefarm. Pre-order it HERE.

Today, the quartet has shared "LAUGH. CRY. SMILE. DIE.," featuring Silverstein's Shane Told. Watch it below.

The video was lensed by INDECLINE Activist Art Collective. 

The song takes a deep, hard look at climate change. Click HERE for the lyrics and the essay behind the song.

"Look, this is our 13th album," the band declares. "There's no other way to put it; Lies They Tell Our Children is the best fucking version of Anti-Flag we have ever been. We haven't been afforded the privilege and ability to spend every day together writing and focusing on every detail of an album in well over a decade and I think you can feel that collaboration and collectiveness in these songs more than any other record of ours. That collaboration was only extrapolated on with the inclusion of the eight guests who are featured on the album, spanning genres, years of friendship, and a vast array of perspectives."

A-F continue, "The album itself is the first conceptual album the band has ever done, spawned out of a compulsive need to not just comment on the dystopian corporate wasteland we all face but to trace it back to the origin of this fate; the political policies, laws, cultural shifts, and lineage of injustice that have led us to the world we live in today."

The band finishes, "Like the band itself, of course the album is an anti-war statement both in the literal and figurative sense. This is an important moment in history and demands an urgent response, but we thought it was also important that we retrace our footsteps to the beginning of these issues. In order to better understand how to eradicate climate devastation, imperialism, war based economics, systems predicated upon racism, and the increasing belief that these things do not even exist, you have got to take people to the source. This idea is the crux of The Lies They Tell Our Children; put this wretched history in their face and demand their empathy."

As mentioned, the album features multiple notable guest appearances, including Rise Against's Tim McIlrath, Killswitch Engage's Jesse Leach, and more. Details are in the full track listing below.

Lies They Tell Our Children was recorded, produced and mixed by Jon Lundin

Anti-Flag are also returning to the road this fall. The band will embark on a headline run of the U.S. before heading to Canada.

Anti-Flag's tour will kick off on September 16 in Burlington, Vermont and run through November 6 with an appearance at Punk Rock in the Park in Silverado, California. The band will also head to Quebec for a trek with Vulgaires Machins and Mudie in November.

The band has also announced ANTIfest dates in multiple cities in the U.S. and will be appearing at other major festivals through the fall.

All dates are below. Get tickets here.

ANTI-FLAG ON TOUR:          

9/16—Burlington, VT—Higher Ground (With Brendan Kelly, Mint Green)   

9/17—Boston, MA—Brighton Music Hall—ANTIfest (Early Show) With Mint Green*

9/17—Boston, MA—Brighton Music Hall—ANTIfest (Late Show) With Brendan Kelly*

9/18—Hamden, CT—Space Ballroom (With Brendan Kelly, Mint Green)

9/23—Birmingham, AL—Furnace Fest—Sloss Furnaces* 

9/24—Charleston, SC—Music Farm (With Doll Skin, Teens in Trouble)

9/25—Louisville, KY@ Louder Than Life Festival—Highland Festival Grounds— KY Expo Center*

9/30—Washington, DC—Black Cat      

10/1—Pittsburgh, PA—Roxian Theatre—ANTIfest (With Four Year Strong, Microwave, Heart Attack Man, Catbite, Dissidente)*

10/6—Boise, ID—The Shredder (With Bad Cop / Bad Cop, The Last Gang)

10/7—Seattle, WA—El Corazon (With Bad Cop / Bad Cop, The Last Gang)

10/8—Portland, OR—Crystal Ballroom—ANTIfest (With Good Riddance, Bad Cop/ Bad Cop, The Last Gang, Alien Boy, The Macks)*

10/13—Richmond, VA—Canal Club     

10/14—Virginia Beach, VA—Elevation 27   

10/15—5 Sayreville, NJ —Starland Ballroom—ANTIfest (With Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, Anti-Flag, Surfboart, The Black Tones, Catbite)*

10/29—Gainesville, FL—FEST 20—Bo Diddly Plaza*     

10/30—Gainesville, FL—FEST 20—Bo Diddly Plaza*     

11/4—Chicago, IL—The Metro—ANTIfest (With We Are The Union, Suicide Machines, Gully Boys, Blind Adam, and the Federal League)*

11/5—Detroit, MI—The Sanctuary (We Are The Union, Blind Adam and the Federal League)

11/6—Silverado, CA—Punk In The Park—Oak Canyon Park*  

12/4—Phoenix, AZ—Crescent Ballroom (With We Are The Union)

12/9—Buffalo, NY—Rec Room (With Cancer Bats)

12/10—Toronto, ON—Danforth Music Hall—ANTIfest (With Cancer Bats, Dilly Dally, Dead Tired, Indian Giver)*

*FESTIVAL DATE

WITH VULGAIRES MACHINS AND MUDIE:

11/12—Sherbrooke, QC—Granada Theater

11/13—Quebec City, QC—Imperial Bell

11/15—Joliette, QC—Salle Rolland-Brunelle

11/16—Ville de Saguenay, QC—Théâtre du Palais Municipal

11/18—Trois-Rivières, QC—Cabaret de l'Amphithéâtre Cogeco

11/19—Montreal, QC—MTELUS

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