Brazil's BIKE present Amazonian psychedelic rock-prog trip on 'O Torto Santo' + MARI DANGERFIELD

"This is a fabulous band with positive, reflective and stimulating music... they seem very much to Brazil (and the world) what Tame Impala is to Australia. The light of the sun is here with slight strobes of dark trippiness caught between the trance-like guitar riffs" ~ Amplify Music Magazine


Brazil-based sonic adventurers BIKE have announced that they will release their new album ‘Arte Bruta’ on May 5 via Quadrado Mágico Records and Before Sunrise Records.

Ahead of that, they preview 'O Torto Santo', the intriguing lead single from this psych-rock, post-Tropicalia, noise rock collection. ‘Arte Bruta’ represents the process of self-analysis the band has undergone in recent years, resulting in the most daring leap in the group's career.

BIKE's trajectory has been one of long journeys, formed in 2014 by Julito Cavalcante (guitar and vocals), Diego Xavier (guitar and voice), Daniel Fumega (drums) and João Gouvea (bass).

“The lyrics for this song were inspired by self-analysis, where I understood that everything has two sides and that we have to be aware of what happens around us, strong enough to face difficulties and take advantage of every opportunity that life gives us,” says Julito Cavalcante.

“Both ‘O Torto Santo’ and this album move forward from our sound on previous albums. We managed to mix all the coolest things we had already done with new references and older ones that have not yet appeared on other albums. We also added new elements and handcrafted instruments in the songs. The idea was to sound artistic and raw at the same time.”

Turning heads and pleasing fans since launching, BIKE is the only Brazilian band that has released music ('Enigma Do Dente Falso') in 2014) through Columbia Records imprint 30th Century Records, founded by cult American producer Danger Mouse.

BIKE released their debut album '1943' in 2015, followed by 'Em Busca da Viagem Eterna' (2017), 'Their Shamanic Majesties' Third Request' (2018) and 'Quarto Templo' (2019). These releases have brought them critical acclaim.

To date, BIKE has played more than 400 shows in 16 Brazilian states, the venues ranging from larger stages to underground houses and festivals. They've also shared the stage with The Black Angels and Os Mutantes. The band also did three extensive international tours through France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Scotland and Wales and has performed at Primavera Sound (Spain), Nox Orae (Switzerland), MIL Lisbon (Portugal) and The Great Escape (England).

On March 1, 'O Torto Santo' will be available from fine digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp, where the ‘Arte Bruta’ album (out on May 5) is also available for pre-order. BIKE will be performing at this year's SXSW Festival (March 13~18) and Treefort Music Fest (March 24-26). More live dates can be expected.

ALBUM CREDITS
Recorded by Gustavo Mendes & Guilherme Held
Recorded at Estúdio Held in São Paulo
Mixed by Guilherme Held
Mastered by Fernando Sanches at Estúdio El Rocha
Produced by Guilherme Held
Lyrics by Julito Cavalcante
Songs by BIKE, except 'Arcoverde" and 'Além-Céu' by Guilherme Held and "Cedro" and 'Yaripo' by Guilherme Held and BIKE
Julito Cavalcante – vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, garabiroba and percussion
Diego Xavier – vocals, electric guitar and acoustic guitar
Daniel Fumega – drums and percussions
João Gôuvea – bass, synthesizers and harmonium
Guilherme Held – electric guitar on Cedro
Cover artwork and design by Juli Ribeiro


Keep up with BIKE
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TAPROOT ANNOUNCE RELEASE OF NEW STUDIO ALBUM SC\SSRS, MACHINE SHOP ALBUM RELEASE

Michigan Hard Rock Mainstays TAPROOT have announced the release date for their upcoming 7th studio album SC\SSRS, the first since 2012’s The Episodes, set to hit stores September 29th via THC MUSIC/Amplified Distribution. Produced by guitarist/vocalist Stephen Richards at The Loft in Saline, MI, SC\SSRS is the musical brainchild of Richards, recorded and written over the last decade, first as material for a new Taproot album, then with the intention of a solo release, before coming full circle back to Taproot.

Says Richards, “I had written most of this record to be the next Taproot release years ago, following The Episodes, when some health and other issues arose, we decided to take a break that turned into a longer than anticipated hiatus. After my mother's passing, I decided I needed to record these songs and share them with friends and fans that were interested in hearing what was next. I've spent the last 6 years doing as much as I could around my personal life to make it happen, and after all of the hard work, the other guys jumped behind me to support and we decided to get it out there and release what IS the new Taproot record SC\SSRS.”

Bassist Phil Lipscomb adds, “Steve had all these great songs recorded that he'd originally written for the next Taproot record that he was planning to just release independently as part of his solo project, but we started talking, and I encouraged him that we should just do it as a Taproot record and pay it the respect that it deserves. And that's exactly what we did.”

SC\SSRS will be available for pre-order 3/15 from taprootmerch.com.

Taproot also welcomes new guitarist Taylor Roberts, and the return of original drummer Jarrod Montague, who will join the band for select upcoming shows (with all other shows featuring longtime drummer Dave Coughlin of Sponge) including their “reunion” appearance at Blue Ridge Rock Fest in September, and the SC\SSRSalbum release party, which will mark the band’s first club show in 6 years, September 29th at The Machine Shop, in Flint, MI.

Tickets go on sale Friday morning at 10 am EST and a VIP Upgrade is available at taprootmerch.com.

Taproot also recently announced the release of Best of Besides, a 17-track collection of remastered demos and rarities, mastered by Richard Easterling (Tantric, Zen From Mars) in stores and digital May 5th, available for pre-order now at taprootmerch.com

Taproot formed in 1997 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and went on to sign to Atlantic Records, releasing their Ulrich Wild (Static-X, Pantera, Mindless Self Indulgence) produced debut album GIFT in 2000, followed by extensive touring including appearances on Ozzfest 2000 and 2001, and tours with Deftones, Incubus, Papa Roach, Slipknot, Mudvayne, Disturbed, and Linkin Park.

The bands sophomore release Welcome, their first pairing with legendary producer Toby Wright (Alice in Chains, Metallica, Korn, Primus) which Rolling Stonecalled, “a self-preserving transition from new metal to art metal”, went on to sell over 500,000 copies and spawn the hit Rock singles “Poem”, which peaked at #5 on the Mainstream Rock charts, and “Mine”, helping propel "Welcome" to over 50 million digital streams. The band would continue heavy touring with Alien Ant Farm, Chevelle, joining Disturbed on the Music As A Weapon Tour, and Linkin Park. Vocalist Stephen Richards would also appear on the track “P5hng Me A*wy” on Linkin Park’s 2002 remix album REANIMATION.

2005 saw the release of Blue-Sky Research, also helmed by Wright, the band’s final release for Atlantic, which spawned the hit radio single “Calling”, co-written with FAR vocalist Jonah Matranga, and saw the band collaborate with Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins), Nick Hexum (311), and Stephen Carpenter (Deftones), with heavy touring again, with the likes of Chevelle, Staind, P.O.D., and Flyleaf.

Taproot released several more full-length studio albums, including 2008’s Our Long Road Home (Velvet Hammer), 2010’s Plead The Fifth (Victory), with the single “Fractured (Everything I Said was True)” reaching the top 20 on the Active Rock Chart, and 2012’s The Episodes, while continuing to tour consistently through 2013, when the band went on an indefinite hiatus, returning only to play a sporadic handful of local Michigan shows, before reforming officially this year.

Taproot will play BLUE RIDGE ROCK FEST in September, and The Machine Shop in Flint, MI on 9/29.

For More Information Please Visit:

https://www.instagram.com/followtaproot/

https://www.facebook.com/TaprootMusic

Officialtaproot.com

Taprootmerch.com

Out of Brooklyn NY Comes Mag Electric with Their New Single "Thorn In My Side"

MAG ELECTRIC release their new single/video "THORN IN MY SIDE". Mag Electric plays music that can best be described as hard rock with a healthy dose of psychedelic influence. "Thorn In My Side" garners all of those motions put into place by a distinct bass and drum drive. The vocals were undeniably written and sung to fit the jam. This is a complete work formed with overtures of classic and psych rock. With their second release, it is time to give Mag Electric their due. "Thorn In My Side" is set to bring the rock loud and proud!

'"Thorn in my Side" is Mag Electric's hard rock expression of life's annoyances and problems. Brought about by daily struggles most everyone experiences in all walks of life, the song expresses a response to the thorn in your side in your own life. All wrapped up in a psychedelic hard rock package, "Thorn" figures to be song rock fans can relate to as we go through life picking thorns out of our own sides."' - William Peluso

"Thorn In My Side'' is the second single from NYC 3-piece Mag Electric. Building off the hard rock foundation the band laid with their debut "Iron Horse", "Thorn In My Side" sees the band explore more of their musical roots. The psychedelic influences of guitarist Jack Simchak are on full display, from beginning to end. In addition, the unique arrangement necessitated by the song's intro section showcases the band's appreciation of non-traditional song structures. Make sure to check out "Thorn In My Side", a song that could be an instant classic among fans of the genre.

Song mixed by David Tyo

Mastering Engineer - Lachlan Carrick

Music video producer/editor - Brennan Gervasi aka @freakdemographic

PURCHASE "THORN IN MY SIDE"

ABOUT:

Mag Electric is a 3 piece hard rock band from Brooklyn. The band consists of Jack Simchak (guitar and vocals), Scott Meyer (bass), and Bill Peluso (drums). The three came together out of a shared love of old-school hard rock bands like QOTSA, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Soundgarden, and ZZ Top, as well as master musicians like Jeff Porcaro. Mag plays music that can best be described as hard rock with a healthy dose of psychedelic influence. Through each song written and performed the band strives to stay true to what they love about their musical roots while maintaining relevance to what they as individuals want to express. On the heels of their first release Roadie music mag said this about their debut single "Iron Horse", "What Jack Simchak (guitar and vocals), Scott Meyer (bass) and Bill Peluso (drums) did on Iron Horse, can be considered an immediate classic, such is the strength of its hard rock with seventies influences, but which borders on the lines of stoner rock, at certain times, showing enormous versatility in their heavy and adrenaline-filled sound, with an intense footprint and a lot of originality on the surface at all times." The band is currently gigging around NYC in support of their upcoming sophomore single "Thorn In My Side" coming out in the winter of 2023. Looking ahead you can find the band on the road touring the northeast this spring with more releases coming throughout the rest of 2023 so make sure to follow and stay tuned.

*Mag Electric will be going out on tour in late April-early May throughout the northeast going down as south as Virginia and as far north as Maine hitting many places in between. More information will be available on all band social media accounts as the dates get closer.

Band Members:

Jack Simchak-Guitar and vocals

Scott Meyer-Bass

William Peluso-Drums

CONNECT:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MagElectricband/

Twitter: 

https://twitter.com/magelectricband

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/magelectricband_nyc/?hl=en

Spotify Mag Electric

http://bit.ly/41jF3Ur

Spotify "Thorn In My Side":

https://open.spotify.com/track/0pvHD0Cum1fhkn99Wdhy7m?si=eaa72cffc9b74557

"Thorn In My Side" Purchase:

https://magelectric.bandcamp.com/

Website:

https://linktr.ee/magelectricband

Merchandise:

https://magelectric.bandcamp.com/merch/mag-electric-t-shirt

Special thanks to David Tyo (mixing) Lachlan Carrick (mastering)

Nate Kamp (artwork) Brennan Gervasi (video production and editing)

JOETOWN Pays Homage to AC/DC Anthem and Brings Bagpipes Back to Rock’n’Roll; Original AC/DC Manager Calls the New Version “Authentic and Respectful”

Out everywhere on Mindsnap Music, Now. Grab it here:https://orcd.co/joetown_its-a-long-way-to-the-top

Bagpipes & Rock’n’Roll. If not for the venerable Bon Scott & AC/DC these two things would have remained mutually exclusive. But, for Joetown, it served as inspiration for the style and sound of the band to which they are so proud. Joe gave some insight, “Kerry Gollarney (Guitarist and Bagpiper) is a secret weapon! When those pipes come out the crowd goes f’n mental, it’s like a war cry!”. The new single is a remade version of the Bon Scott era AC/DC classic "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)" and is complete with video of the band rolling through the city streets in major civic events such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. “The video just happened to work out since we have been doing so many public events, I figured, let’s do it like the original AC/DC video they did through the streets of Melbourne. The song and the video are a way to honor how much the song and lyrics have been an inspiration – they are our musical heroes and I think we capture the spirit of what it is all about.”

Frontman Joe Delaney, (also the voice of popular hair rockers Bomber Alley), gives the signal of much more bagpipes in the mix and is excited that the next single is an original tune that features the pipes, “that sound is stuck in my head now and as a songwriter, I hear melody in that register every time, similar to having its a horn section or B3 player.”

The band will be performing at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Hartford & New Haven Connecticut, USA, March 11th & 12th with a release party at their hometown haunt, Cherry Street Station in Wallingford on St Patrick’s Day, March 17th.

“Good to see this band called Joetown, from another generation and continent, do a very authentic and respectful retake of the iconic AC/DC video that I was involved in 'Long Way To The Top'," says Michael Browning, AC/DC Manager (1974-1979).

Chris Slade (Ex-AC/DC) is quoted as saying, ”Great Pipes!”

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

Twitter

Spotify

YouTube

Ingested Share "Echoes of Hate" Video — WATCH // Band to Return to North America For Tour This Spring👂

NEW ALBUM ASHES LIE STILL OUT NOW VIA METAL BLADE

BAND TO RETURN TO U.S. FOR NORTH AMERICAN HEADLINE TOUR THIS SPRING

INGESTED released Ashes Lie Still last fall via Metal Blade. Get it here.

Today, the band has shared the video for "Echoes of Hate." Watch it here.

The visual features impaled skeletons and is bathed in red and orange tones, set against thunderous blast beats and deep grooves.

"We are utterly ecstatic to unleash the music video for 'Echoes of Hate," says vocalist Jason Evans. "Of all the singles we've released so far, this is the one I've been looking forward to the most, as this is by far the most brutal song on the album, with an absolutely catastrophic ending that will please old school Ingested fans and I'm certain will cause explosions of bodies in the pit at our upcoming shows with Cannibal Corpse. We've teamed up once again with our partner in visual crime Loki Films to bring yet another skull crushing music video for you all. Super proud of this one, absolute brutality at its terrifying best. Enjoy."

Ingested will return to the road on a North American headline tour this spring. All dates are below.

INGESTED ON TOUR: 
WITH DEVOURMENT, EXTERMINATION DISMEMBERMENT, + ORGANECTOMY
 5/4 — Brooklyn, NY — Brooklyn Monarch
5/5 — Mechanicsburg, PA — Lovecraft's
5/6 — Baltimore, MD — Soundstage
5/7 — Greensboro, NC — Hanger 1819
5/9 — Miami, FL — Gramps*
5/10 — Orlando, FL — Conduit*
5/11 — Atlanta, GA — Masquerade
5/12 — Nashville, TN — The End
5/13 ­— Little Rock, AR — Rev Room**
5/14 — Dallas, TX — Amplified Live**
5/16 — Houston, TX —Scout Bar**
5/17 — Austin, TX — Come and Take It Live**
5/18 — Albuquerque, NM —Launchpad
5/19 — Mesa, AZ — Nile Underground 
5/20 — Anaheim, CA —Chain Reaction
5/21 — San Francisco, CA — Neck Of The Woods
5/23 — Portland, OR — Bossanova Ballroom^
5/24 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon^
5/25 — Spokane, WA — The Big Dipper
5/26 — Boise, ID — The Shredder
5/27 — Salt Lake City, UT — Metro Music Hall
5/28 — Denver, CO — Roxy Theater
5/30 — Chicago, IL — Cobra Lounge
5/31 — Detroit, MI — Sanctuary
6/1 — Cleveland, OH — No Class
6/2 — Toronto, ON —Velvet Underground
6/3 — Montreal, QC — Foufones Electriques
6/4 — Cambridge, MA —Sonia
*With Implosive Disgorgence
**With Peeling Flesh
^With I Declare War

ABOUT INGESTED:
Ingested are the flagbearers of modern UK death metal. They have been churning out bilious anti-anthems for more than a decade-and-a-half, dropping a string of releases that have helped shape the genre. They return with Ashes Lie Still, their most dynamic, inventive, and daring release to date, holding nothing back. The band describes it as "a modern essential. It still has the core Ingested elements of groovy slamming riffs, quick drumming, and guttural vocals but there's also atmosphere, ethereal moments, and some raw old school aggression."  Over the course of 10 tracks, Ingested hack, slash, and steamroll through everything in their path, and Ashes Lie Still easily stands as the highpoint of an already impressive career. Founded in 2006 in Manchester, England, Ingested have since toured extensively with Cannibal Corpse, The Black Dahlia Murder, Nile, Carnifex, and Revocation, and have been seen on European festival stages including Summer Breeze Open Air. Slimmed down to a three-piece, the band feels it is in the best place it ever has been, enabling the members to work at the top of their game.

Ashes Lie Still was mixed and mastered by Christian Donaldson. It was co-produced by the band and previous collaborator Nico Beninato, with drummerLyn Jeffs living close to Beninato's studio in Mallorca and recording his drums there, while Sean Hynes recorded his guitars at home in the UK with the producer assisting remotely. Vocal tracking was interrupted by Jason Evansfalling seriously ill when finally making it to Mallorca and was ultimately tracked back in Manchester. Bass was again supplied by Dominic Grimard (Ion Dissonance/The Last Felony).

Ingested succinctly encapsulate their existence, saying, "We've always been the underdogs, always fighting for scraps. Well it's time to get out of the fucking way, because now it's our turn to eat at the table."

You've. Been. Warned.

INGESTED ARE:
Jason Evans — Vocals
Sean Hynes — Guitars + Backing Vocals
Lyn Jeffs — Drums

Rising Prog-Metal Juggernauts STELLAR CIRCUITS Ink Deal With Nuclear Blast

Nuclear Blast Records is proud to announce the signing of progressive-metal juggernauts STELLAR CIRCUITS. Recruited by A&R legend Monte Conner, the Winston-Salem, North Carolinians join the ranks of the world's biggest metal label with plans to release their eagerly awaited sophomore album later this year. 

Commenting on the signing, the band states: 

"We’ve always been such big fans of Nuclear Blast and the bands they’ve worked with over the years. It’s an honor and a privilege to be welcomed into the NB family like we have. This partnership marks the beginning of a new era of Stellar Circuits and we couldn’t be more excited.”

Combining the progressive artistry of innovators like TOOL and the powerful ferocity similar to that of GOJIRA, STELLAR CIRCUITS recent upward trajectory is no surprise. Amassing millions of Spotify plays on their own, the band has developed a worldwide cult following with their distinctive prog sound that weaves in and out of metal sub-genres, providing a dynamic yet fully accessible listening experience as heard on previously released singles like "Go With Your Ghost," "Penny Dreadful" and "Skylights."

Details of their impending second, full-length album will be revealed in the weeks to come. 

About STELLAR CIRCUITS: 

Formed in 2015, Stellar Circuits emerged to combine the conceptual polarities of groove-oriented music with progressive-minded technicality. Over the quartet’s lifespan, they’ve managed to fulfill their own prophecy, formulating a core sound that is complex and layered, while providing a listenability that extends well beyond the rock genre. Visceral, intellectual, groovy, technical, and melodious are rarely indicators that can all be used to describe the aural essence of one band. In the case of Stellar Circuits, the rare combination makes a striking and definitive appearance in all they do. 
 
The Winston-Salem, NC foursome followed their 2015 debut EP with their first full-length album in 2018. "Ways We Haunt" would be recorded with North Carolina’s own Jamie King (Between The Buried And Me, He Is Legend), a legend in his own right, bringing his signature touch to Stellar Circuits’ first long form release. 
 
Generating significant attention, especially from the band’s more veteran industry peers, Stellar Circuits would go on to be invited as special guests on Chevelle’s 2021 N.I.R.A.T.I.A.S. tour.  Completing a nationwide trek that introduced Stellar Circuits to a significantly broader audience, the foursome immediately saw their fanbase increase exponentially, prompting a shift in their attention to a new record with which they could continue to build on the solid foundation they had since established.

Follow STELLAR CIRCUITS:
https://stellarcircuits.com/
https://www.facebook.com/stellarcircuits/
https://www.instagram.com/stellarcircuits/
https://twitter.com/StellarCircuits
https://www.tiktok.com/@stellarcircuitsofficial
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/StellarCircuits
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3IPiAYo
Apple Music: https://apple.co/3EBbQe8

MACABRE CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF SINISTER SLAUGHTER WITH REISSUES ON APRIL 14!

Chicago legends of Murder Metal/Death Metal MACABRE released their second full-length album Sinister Slaughter in 1993 via Nuclear Blast. This April marks the 30th anniversary and what better way to celebrate than reissues of the iconic album available in CD, 3 vinyl variants, and a red cassette? Don't miss your chance to add the physical format to your collection on April 14th!

Pre-order your copy of Sinister Slaughter 30th anniversary reissue here: https://bfan.link/Macabre-SinisterSlaughter

Sinister Slaughter 30th Anniversary Edition will be available in the following formats:

• CD Jewel Case

• Vinyl

  • Sinister Splatter

  • Blue/Red Solit w/ Black Splatter

  • Orange In Red W/ White Splatter (Band Exclusive, limited to 300)

• Red cassette

Pre-order your copy of Sinister Slaughter 30th anniversary edition here: https://bfan.link/Macabre-SinisterSlaughter

Kingsmen Release New Single + Music Video For "Diamondize" via Sharptone Records

Hailing from Providence, RI, hard rock quintet Kingsmen have unveiled their new single and music video for their track "Diamondize". The single is taken from the band's upcoming new album 'Bones Don't Lie' set for release on Friday, March 31 via Sharptone Records. Speaking on today's release, guitarist Tim Lucier comments:

"'Diamondize' was written with the mindset of experimenting with soundscapes on a different level than the band has used in the past. We wanted to deliver a heavy message that affirms no matter the pressure of self-doubt, there is always a way to cut through the tough times. From pickaxes to crushing distorted percussion, we bring you 'Diamondize'."

Stream "Diamondize" here, watch the music video below, and pre-save 'Bones Don't Lie' here.

Fans will have their chance to see Kingsmen hit the stage across the US later this month on the Bones Don't Lie Tour with special guests Rise Among Rivals and Zonezero (on select dates). For ticket information, please click here.

Bones Don't Lie Tour

March 23 - Amityville, NY @ Amityville Music Hall

March 24 - Clifton, NJ @ Dingbatz

March 25 - Albany, NY @ Empire Underground

March 26 - Manchester, NH @ Jewel Music Venue

March 28 - Providence, RI @ Alchemy*

March 29 - Brooklyn, NY @ Meadows*

March 30 - Philadelphia, PA @ Warehouse On Watts*

March 31 - Baltimore, MD @ Angels Rock Bar (Explicit Content)*

April 1 - Harrisburg, PA @ HMAC*

April 2- Lakewood, OH @ The Foundry*

April 4 - Toledo, OH @ The Ottawa Tavern*

April 5 - Chicago, IL @ Cobra Lounge*

April 6 - Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle*

April 7 - Columbus, OH @ Ace Of Cups*

April 8 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Black Forge Coffee*

* with Zonezero

ABOUT KINGSMEN:

Like carbon atoms crystallized into precious stone, radiant transformation was clearly an important aspect for vocalist Tanner Guimond, bassist Adam Bakelman, drummer Michael Perrotta, and guitarists Tim Lucier and Nick Gilbert as they set out to craft their forthcoming ten-track offering, Bones Don't Lie. Yet, just as diamonds aren’t formed without a little heat, the metal outfit welcomed a good challenge in the name of personal growth.

Embracing their most experimental outlook to date, the tight-knit group wasted no time stepping outside their comfort zone and even across the country in search of inspiration. Recorded primarily in Los Angeles, California, with a short stop in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Kingsmen took a substantial risk, discarding around twenty-five already mapped-out tracks and arriving at the studio with an almost completely clean slate. Combined with a willingness to soak in their new environment, the band developed the chorus of "Bitter Half" while on a thoughtful drive through Santa Monica, transformed a moving visit to Gettysburg into the poignant theme of comradery in “Trial By Fire”, and along with the guidance of new collaborators Zach Jones’ (Chelsea Grin, Fever 333, Silent Planet), Josh Strock (Bad Wolves, Pop Evil), and Ricky Armellino (Ice Nine Kills, This or the Apocalypse), effectively hit their stride.

A distinct difference in approach from previous album Revenge. Forgiveness. Recovery, in which the majority of the music was written prior to entering the studio, Bones Don’t Lie stemmed from the back-and-forth teamwork of real-time feedback. For Kingsmen, bouncing ideas around in a room full of friends was an ideal scenario as opposed to “ripping our hair out trying to figure out how to add to an already completed picture.” And, according to Gilbert, it was this “push-and-pull dynamic that kept us creative.”

Setting their sights on achieving what they’ve dubbed a “big metal sound that fills up your whole brain when listening to it between the headphones,” the group had fun bashing steel pipes, hammers, and pickaxes together for a striking industrial feel ("Bones Don’t Lie") and incorporating components such as the glass slide ("No Road Home") for an eerie unsettling atmosphere. Reflecting on his classical training, Guimond even found himself rediscovering a singing voice he felt he had left in the past long ago but was destined to revisit.

The most important unwavering factor, however, was the fighting Kingsmen spirit. Connecting with listeners through universal themes and lyrical stories ranging from championing positivity to coming together in the face of adversity, shining light, and hope into all they do is something the band has no intention of changing.

“To be a kingsman is to be someone that has the courage to endure the worst, but still reflect the best parts of humanity,” Guimond expressed. “So, with all of our songs, that’s what we try and showcase. There’s no way that anyone will go through life without experiencing some terrible things. But to grow from that… to become a better person after the fact is, we believe, one of the true purposes of life. Maybe someday we’ll do something wild like a concept album with ogres and elves. But we really believe that when you’re conveying your emotions through music, it comes across when you’re being honest. So as often as we can, and as many different ways possible, there’s no doubt that you’ll see a lot more of that kind of attitude through our music in the future.”

Kingsmen Are:

Tanner Guimond - Vocals

Tim Lucier - Guitar

Nick Gilbert - Guitar

Adam Bakelman - Bass

Mike Perrotta - Drums

CLOAK Premieres New Song + Music Video, Reveals New Album Details

PRE-ORDER

Blackened heavy metal masters CLOAK will be releasing their third full-length, 'Black Flame Eternal,' on May 26, 2023! To celebrate this release, the Atlanta quartet is now sharing the blistering first single, "Invictus," along with a music video! The scorching new video was co-directed by Nic Adams and Cloak frontman Scott Taysom and it can be found below.
 

Cloak drummer Sean Bruneau comments on the song, “No composition written by the band has so perfectly captured our essence to date. The time spent in isolation allowed not only personal growth, but tremendous reflection on a lifetime of inspiration. The song came together aggressively once we started working on new material, and it was clear that we were approaching things differently this time around. Anger and empowerment were much more evident as opposed to the more melody driven material in the past albums. To us, 'Invictus' is a thesis of sorts. It’s everything about who we were before this band and where we are headed together moving forward.”
 

In addition, CLOAK is now announcing a very special hometown album release performance, which will take place place at The Earl in Atlanta, GA on June 10!

Prior to that, the band will be performing at the Carolina Chainsaw Massacre Fest II in Greensboro, NC on May 6 followed by an appearance at the inaugural Hell in the Harbor festival, which takes place the weekend of the album's release in Baltimore, MD. All dates and tickets can be found below!

CLOAK is following up 2019's 'The Burning Dawn,' which was named one of the Best Albums of the year by Metal Insider (#6), A&P Reacts (#8), Treble Zine (#11), and others.

'Black Flame Eternal' can be pre-saved across all streaming services HERE and pre-ordered in North America HERE.

However, the universe isn’t ready for Cloak to unleash its fury today! And so, due to an unforeseen technical difficulties, the official European store launch has been delayed and will be revealed at a later date! In the meantime, you can pre-order the new album and merch via Bandcamp HERE.

CLOAK Live U.S. Dates:
05/06: Greensboro, NC @ Carolina Chainsaw Massacre Fest II [TICKETS]
05/27-28: Baltimore, MD @ Hell in the Harbor Fest [TICKETS]
06/10: Atlanta, GA @ The Earl [TICKETS] **HOMETOWN SHOW**

“The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself.” - Rudyard Kipling

In an era that is designed to beat down and weaken the individual, Black Flame Eternal is an album that represents strength, empowerment, and total opposition. With mounting pressure to engage in modern societal tribalism, Cloak invokes a spiritual rebellion that exists beyond good and evil with album number three. 

“All of our albums are created with a spiritual focus, dealing with how we see life, death, and everything in between. I think the earlier records dealt more with the mysteries that surrounded delving deeper into the world of dark spirituality, whereas the new material has taken what we’ve learned and used it to move forward with force,” says Cloak frontman Scott Taysom of the record’s underlying philosophy. “Black Flame Eternal is a statement of spiritual empowerment in every sense. For the first time we want people to grasp on to this sentiment, instead of keeping it completely personal within our world of Cloak. The themes and the sheer power can be felt much more within the songs that this album contains."

“Our goal is complete spiritual liberation, which is where true power and freedom exists,” he adds. “We’ve reached a point in history where people are forced to pick a side or to join a team, so to speak. Cloak stands in complete opposition to this. We aim to be a giant middle finger in the face of the empty modern world.”

While Cloak might rage against societal conventions, the Atlanta quartet embraces the rebellious and time-tested traditions of heavy metal. Whether it be the conjuring the chaotic spirit of Swedish black metal purveyors Watain and Dissection, summoning the deep, dark and sensual groove of Danzig, or evoking the raw speed and raucous energy of Motörhead, the influence of metal’s founding fathers is deep within Cloak’s DNA. Cloak’s charm, however, does not merely lie within its romanticism of the past, but rather is the way each of these genres has shaped Cloak’s own personal identity. And with Black Flame Eternal, the record sees Cloak continue to strengthen its own unique established sound.

Cloak recognizes the importance of a band’s third record, with Taysom explaining, “These influences will always be important to us, as they are some of the best and most important bands of our time. On the other hand, what is so special about getting to the third record of our career is that inspiration starts to move inwards. We had enough experience and material at this point to really know what we do best and how we can utilize these skills in the best way possible. If you look at some of the most iconic bands, their third albums were massive steps towards greatness. So to us, we feel our third record will be a very important one in our time as a band.”

The Atlantan’s evolution is evident in the fury displayed on Black Flame Eternal,which flawlessly compliments the grandiose melodic atmosphere. “This was a conscious effort. Early on before the album even started, I knew it was going to be a much more aggressive and powerful album. I wanted to take a step away from certain sounds and add a bit of brutality back in. The overall vibe matches who we are much more, so it was only fitting to move towards this sound. It almost feels like we are going back to our roots as people in certain ways,” explains Taysom.

Black Flame Eternal follows up sophomore effort The Burning Dawn, which was released in November 2019, with hell unleashing its fury on the globe just a few short months later. As plans to tour the new album around the world came to a screeching halt, the band did not stagger or falter, and instead used this gift of time to write. When reflecting upon the lost years and its impact, Taysom seemingly embraces the situation with little regrets, “Considering Cloak is a sacred space for us, these exterior things did not have as much of an impact as one might think. But it was impossible to ignore some of what was going on throughout these tumultuous years. It’s bound to affect people’s personal lives and the way the mind works during these interesting times. One thing that it did greatly affect was the fact that we could not promote The Burning Dawn properly after the one U.S. tour we did with 1349. We feel this hurt the record, but there was nothing we could do. We were one of the earliest out of the gate after venues started to open back up, and we’ve been continuing to tour in promotion of that album all the way up until now.”

Cloak utilized every minute of this time to focus on fully realizing its vision for Black Flame Eternal. “The initial stage of the writing process started in January of 2020, and lasted all the way until May 2021. It was the longest spanning album process for us so far, with many long days, nights, and weeks trying to piece the songs together the best we could.” While the record did not come together swiftly or easily, the care and attention put into its creation is evident in its powerful composition.

Making up for lost time, these road warriors have already embarked on several high profile North American tours since the autumn of 2021, commanding audiences in every major city with their chaos magick. Each performance merges the spirit of black metal with the backbone of rock ‘n’ roll as the band consistently delivers a blistering set from start to finish. Taysom describes Cloak’s live approach as “a mixture of ethereal atmosphere and total abrasive chaos. The mixture of these two opposing energies is where Cloak lies; the meeting of high and low. To us, this is where the most interesting moments happen, both emotionally and physically.”

With no borders or boundaries, Cloak is ready to embark on this new chapter as the leader of its own pack. The band bows to no one, forging its own path as one of the governing metal forces of this decade as ‘Black Flame Eternal’ promises to scorch the earth and leave its hallowed mark.

Lineup:
Scott Taysom - vocals/guitar
Max Brigham – guitar
Billy C. Robinson – bass
Sean Bruneau - drums

Links:
http://www.facebook.com/cloakofficial
https://www.instagram.com/cloak_atlanta/
https://cloakatlanta.bandcamp.com/

Recording Studio: The Green House 

Mixing: Cameron Webb

Mastering: Audiosiege

Cover Art: Jordan Barlow

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

Pre-order (Worldwide): https://cloakatlanta.bandcamp.com/
Pre-order (U.S.): https://shopusa.season-of-mist.com/band/cloak

World-Famous Tribute Icons TRAGEDY Reveal Metallic Cover of Disco Anthem "I Will Survive"

World-Famous Tribute Icons

TRAGEDY

Reveal Metallic Cover of Disco Anthem,

"I Will Survive"

Watch the New Video Below

New Album, 'I Am Woman',

Out this Friday, March 3, 2023 via Napalm Records

Pre-Order HERE

USA Tour with Steel Panther & Crobot Happening NOW!

+ Co-Headlining with Nanowar of Steel

in the UK & Europe Next!

New York City tribute masters TRAGEDY will release their upcoming full-length album, 'I Am Woman', this Friday, March 3, 2023 via Napalm Records! Flipping the script on sleaze rock tropes, 'I Am Woman' pays tribute to the most powerful force in the band's lives - celebrating womanhood in all forms on 14 newly-reinvented disco and soft rock anthems.

What better way for the inventors of “disco metal” to ring in their new album and tour than by revealing a metallic cover of one of the greatest disco anthems of all time? That's right - as they continue on their current USA tour with Steel Panther and Crobot and prepare to drop 'I Am Woman', TRAGEDY brings fans a campy, charging cover of Gloria Gaynor's hit track "I Will Survive"! Evoking the spirit of Queen with soaring choral harmonies before landing with an 80s metal twist, the track boasts fun electric riffage and blazing solos!

TRAGEDY says about "I Will Survive":

"Here, we deconstruct this iconic disco anthem, and dig deep into the fear and rage lingering under the surface of the original. In the video, the Greek chorus, Mo'Royce and his dancer alter-ego tell the story of emerging from a toxic relationship and learning how to thrive as a strong, independent spirit. It embodies the album's theme - inhabiting each other's stories while turning sweet disco into hot, molten metal."

TRAGEDY had a glitter-encrusted grip on the entertainment world when they emerged in the early 2010’s. Now, following the 2015 breakout viral music video for their cover of Grease’s “You’re The One That I Want” and 2017’s second viral hit, a cover of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, TRAGEDY are back with a brand new twist on I Am Woman!

Having introduced their raucous trademark stage show to audiences in the USA, the UK, Germany, France, Switzerland and beyond, and releasing several albums of metallized disco, soft rock and pop covers before even tasting their first viral hit, TRAGEDY proved early on that they were never just your everyday satirical cover band. These six warriors of wacky fully embody the soul of the original and reimagine it from the top down, infusing the tracks with an undeniably infectious energy that can be felt both on stage or on wax. And while their 80s hair metal image would imply that plenty of misbehavior is to be seen on the surface, one only need witness TRAGEDY live a single time to understand that the band’s true overarching message is one of carefree joy, humanity, acceptance and the simple pursuit of a damn good time.

"...Shiny costumes, dramatic eye makeup and headbanging hilarity…”

- The Village Voice (US)

“Hard riffs, tight white flares, and even tighter octave-scraping harmonies… essential listening"

- The Sun (UK)

Pre-Order 'I Am Woman' HERE

On 'I Am Woman', TRAGEDY turn the energy up to 11 with recharged dancehall favorites like “Le Freak”, “Respect” (featuring soul powerhouse Marcy Harriell) and “I’m So Excited”, and double down on the drama with heavy, recomposed covers of belt-worthy classics “Memory” (featuring legendary drag performer, singer and guitarist Mrs. Smith), “Goldfinger” and “Roar”.

Tracks like “I Will Survive” evoke the spirit of Queen with choral harmonies and blazing solos, while unabashed anthems like “She Bop” and “Venus” fully convince with authentic 80s hair metal flavor. Power metal reigns on the band’s opus-like version of “Flashdance… What a Feeling” and the theatrical Maiden-meets-Meatloaf-esque “Lay All Your Love on Me”.

'I Am Woman' is bolstered by a retro production aura that allows the intricacy of each rearrangement decision to shine, as blistering guitar work, classic drumlines and dynamic vocal performances cascade throughout each track. With 'I Am Woman', TRAGEDY truly embody the spirit of metal classics while providing a fresh take on some of the world’s most timeless classics of empowerment, independence and self-love - important messages that resonate now more than ever!

As mentioned above, TRAGEDY recently kicked off their tour with Steel Panther and Crobot in the USA! After gracing American audiences with their raucous stage show, TRAGEDY will continue on to their co-headline European tour alongside fellow comedy metal icons and labelmates NANOWAR OF STEEL, beginning April 18 in Southampton, UK. See below for all tour dates!

TRAGEDY: US Tour with Steel Panther and Crobot (as special guest)

03.01.23 – US: Houston, TX – House Of Blues

03.03.23 – US: Dallas, TX – House Of Blues

03.04.23 – US: Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom

03.06.23 – US: Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works

03.08.23 – US: Ft. Lauderdale, FL – Culture Room

03.10.23 – US: Orlando FL – The Plaza Live

03.11.23 – US: St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live

03.12.23 – US: Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre

03.14.23 – US: Baltimore, MD – Rams Head Live

03.16.23 – US: New York, NY – Irving Plaza

03.17.23 – US: Philadelphia, PA – Keswick Theatre

03.18.23 – US: Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom

03.19.23 – US: Worcester, MA – The Palladium

03.21.23 – US: Detroit, MI – The Fillmore

03.22.23 – US: Columbus, OH – The Bluestone

03.24.23 – US: Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room

03.25.23 – US: Chicago, IL – House Of Blues

03.26.23 – US: Bloomington, IL – The Castle Theatre

03.28.23 – US: Milwaukee, WI – The Eagles Club Stage

03.29.23 – US: Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore

03.31.23 – US: Lincoln, NE – Bourbon Theatre

04.01.23 – US: Denver, CO – The Fillmore

04.02.23 – US: Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot

04.04.23 – US: Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom

04.06.23 – US: West Hollywood, CA – Whisky A Go Go

04.07.23 – US: West Hollywood, CA – Whisky A Go Go

04.08.23 – US: San Diego, CA – House Of Blues

TRAGEDY are:

Disco Mountain Man - vocals, keys

Mo'Royce Peterson - vocals, guitar

Andy Gibbous Waning - bass, vocals

Gibbon Ass Freehly - guitar, vocals, horns

The Infernal Demigibb - drums

Erv Woolsey Honored With BMI "Million-Air" Award for George Strait Classic "I Can Still Make Cheyenne"

ERV WOOLSEY HONORED WITH BMI "MILLION-AIR" AWARD CELEBRATING OVER A MILLION BROADCAST PERFORMANCES OF "I CAN STILL MAKE CHEYENNE"

Platinum-Certified Song Written by Woolsey & Aaron Barker Appeared on George Strait's 1996 Album, Blue Clear Sky

DEATHSTARS - Unleash New Video For second Single "Midnight Party"

Swedish industrial cult act DEATHSTARS recently announced their return with the new album Everything Destroys You, which is set to be released on May 5th via Nuclear Blast Records.

Fans have eagerly waited for their first release in over eight years, which brings us back to the good old Scandinavian Deathglam and destructive urban party nights.
Today, the band reveals the second album single, "Midnight Party".

The track is accompanied by a complimentary video - filmed in Stockholm, it depicts the band attending a packed club show, watching a Deathstars female cover band. Hint: this alternative Deathstars might feature some familiar faces…

Frontman Whiplasher Bernadotte comments on the song:

"I wanted to write a kind of worst slash filthy slash dark yet catchy party song and lyrics; something that was bad in a good way – bringing moral downfall up- to - speed al dente.. It’s about those times when you end up binge partying and don´t go to sleep for days, it’s just constantly midnight with the additional clear and present downward spiral and debauchery that eventually makes you go insane. The party that never stops until you collapse. Very different from David Lee Roth-poolpartyrock, to say the least.”

Check out the video below.
Listen / pre-order here: https://deathstars.bfan.link/party-2802.ema  

The album will be released in the following formats:

CD jewel case with 16-page booklet
1LP Sleeve + A2 Poster white
1LP Sleeve + A2 Poster splatter dark green & yellow

LINE-UP

Whiplasher Bernadotte - Vocals

Nightmare Industries - Guitars and Keys

Cat Casino - Guitars

Skinny Disco - Bass

Listen / pre-order: https://bfan.link/deathstars-thisis-1152.ema  

BLOODYWOOD Announces RAKSHAK USA Tour Featuring VENDED and WARGASM!

BLOODYWOOD, the Indian metal band that has taken the world by storm with their unique blend of heavy music and traditional Indian folk music, is pleased to announce their upcoming RAKSHAK USA Tour. The tour, which will feature support from VENDED and WARGASM, will kick off on May 2nd in Seattle, WA and make its way across the US ending with an appearance at the Sonic Temple Festival in Columbus Ohio May 25

“We are thrilled to be back playing for our fans in the United States,” says Jayant Bhadula vocalist of BLOODYWOOD. “This tour is going to be a celebration of heavy metal, Indian culture, and the power of music to bring people together.”

The RAKSHAK USA Tour will feature songs from their 2022 critically acclaimed debut RAKSHAK album. Direct support VENDED, the Des Moines-based hard rock band featuring vocalist Griffin Taylor and drummer Simon Crahan, has been making waves with a powerful debut release and is featured on the tour. WARGASM, the London-based duo featuring Milkie Way and Sam Matlockwho have been garnering acclaim from their mix of punk and metal genres rounds out the bill.

“We can’t wait to share the stage with VENDED AND WARGASM,” adds Karan Katiyar, the guitarist. “Both bands are incredibly talented and we know that they are going to bring a ton of energy to every show.”

The RAKSHAK USA Tour is the latest in a series of exciting developments for BLOODYWOOD, who have been making headlines around the world for their unique sound and energetic live performances (as they did representing their country and genre on Lollapalooza, India). With their infectious melodies, heavy riffs, and powerful lyrics, BLOODYWOOD is poised to become one of the most exciting new bands in metal throughout the world. Their passionately advocated social causes complement their bold sound.

TOUR DATES
05/02 @ El Corazon - Seattle, WA
05/03 @ Hawthorne Theater - Portland, OR
05/05 @ Virginia Street Brewhouse - Reno, NV
05/06 @ Goldfield Trading - Sacramento, CA
05/07 @ Echoplex - Los Angeles, CA
05/08 @ The Observatory - Santa Ana, CA
05/10 @ Gothic Theatre - Denver, CO
05/12 @ The Metro - Chicago, IL
05/13 @ Pop's - St. Louis, MO
05/15 @ Vibes Event Center - San Antonio, TX
05/16 @ The Studio At The Factory - Dallas, TX
05/18 @ Welcome to Rockville Festival - Daytona Beach, FL
05/19 @ The Georgia Theater - Athens, GA
05/20 @ Hangar 1819 - Greensboro, NC
05/22 @ Irving Plaza - New York, NY
05/23 @ HMAC - Harrisburg, PA
05/24 @ Roxian Theatre - Pittsburgh, PA
05/25 @ Sonic Temple Festival - Columbus, OH

Presale Tickets and VIP Experiences for the RAKSHAK USA Tour begin on Wednesday March 1, with General on-sales Friday March 3!

Click for Presale Tickets and VIP Experience!

Stream 'Rakshak' on Spotify

About Bloodywood

BLOODYWOOD is known for pioneering a sound that seamlessly fuses Indian Folk instruments with Metal to devastating effect. Expect to hear the percussive power of the mighty Dhol, the melancholic Flute, the single stringed Tumbi and several other uncommon yet distinctively characteristic sounds from India. A combination of thunderous Hindi/Punjabi and meaningful yet unforgiving Rap verses along with the ethnic instrumentation, makes BLOODYWOOD a truly unique experience.

Angel Vivaldi Releases New Track & Video "Six"; Taken From Upcoming Album 'Away With Words Part 2' Out April 7th

Guitar virtuoso, Angel Vivaldi, has released new single "Six" today taken from his recently announced new EP 'Away With Words Pt 2 ' (out April 7th). Much like its predecessor, "Eight" which was released with news of the album, "Six" exhibits yet another completely different facet of Angel's playing to the heavier rock output he was previously known for and further cements him as one of the most talented and versatile guitarists in the world. Speaking on his latest release, Angel shares

" Playing with different instruments/musical textures such as fingerstyle, two-hand tapping, open tunings, thinlines and of course electric, resulted in what I feel is the most beautiful song in my discography to date. This song represents the core of my musical values these days."

"Six" can be found on all streaming platforms HERE and the official music video can be viewed below.

A Way With Words: Part 2” will be released on April 7th. Part 1 (2014) consisted of heavier yet melodic rock and metal while the newly announced Part 2 explores a wide range of genres including funk, latin, classical and acoustic. The concept is based on the yin/yang of what we are capable of - that we are more than just the one thing people see us as. Pre-orders for the upcoming release launched today and are available HERE.

Elaborating on his feelings about his upcoming EP, Angel continues,

“Few words can describe what it feels like to finally share the full scope of this concept record 9 years after I started it. While the seeds I initially planted took longer to bear fruit, I’m grateful it took this long as it helped to make the grapes that much sweeter. Part 2 is an unexpected musical journey that has something on it for any lover of music.”

ABOUT ANGEL VIVALDI 

Across his five solo releases, Angel Vivaldi’s blend of spell-binding guitar anthems and tasteful yet virtuosic playing have reached and inspired tens of millions. Vivaldi, starting his independent solo career in 2003, joined forces with the newly reformed 40 Below Summer in 2008. He continued to release multiple solo albums including The Speed of Dark (2009) and the critically acclaimed Universal Language in 2010, which has become a staple in today’s modern instrumental album catalogue. In 2012, Vivaldi joined supergroup Vext featuring Tommy Vext (ex-Bad Wolves) as well as members from Mutiny Within. After the loss of his best friend to ALS in 2014, not long after the crowd-funded release of Away With Words Part 1, Angel realized that the only thing worse than living with regret would be to die with it. So in 2015, putting his confidence and trust in his audience, Vivaldi quit his day job, committing himself fulltime to his career in music and touring.

Since beginning to headline national US and European tours in 2015, he has shared the stage with icons such as Yngwie Malmsteen, Andy James (Five Finger Death Punch), Nita Strauss, Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne) as well as modern titans such as Plini, Intervals and Devin Townsend. His last full-length album, Synapse (2017), is a conceptual opus that immerses listeners with an introspective sonic adventure coupled with stunning visuals massing millions of views. Vivaldi’s commitment to his art is total; during the recording process, he painted and repainted his studio to correspond with the mood of each song. Tracks like “Adrenaline,” “Oxytocin,” “Dopamine,” “Endorphin,” and “Serotonin” musically elicit the exact type of emotions implied by connotation. Later that same year, he launched his annual Guitar Collective tour which has featured artists such as Nita Strauss, Scale the Summit, Andy James, Yvette Young and more.

2019 saw the debut of Angel’s signature guitar, the Charvel Nova. The line continues to expand with multiple models, including both 6 and 7 strings versions. He’s since appeared on numerous records with the likes of Marty Freidman, Nuno Bettencourt, Alex Skolnick (Testament) and Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy). He continues to operate as a self-managed, independent artist.

Angel Vivaldi takes the foundation laid down by the icons of heavy guitar and builds upon it with his unique speed, sophistication, futurism, and ambition. The result is a body of work that’s increasingly immersive and sublime, maximizing modern technology and raw instinct to expand the boundaries of instrumental rock. Angel has racked up over 40 million YouTube views and 70 million streams across his solo catalogue and has appeared on records with Marty Freidman, Nuno Bettencourt, Alex Skolnick (Testament) and Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy). 

Punk Rock Factory Unveil New Single + Music Video "Defying Gravity"

Rambunctious pop-punk rascals PUNK ROCK FACTORY are ready to turn your world quite literally upside down with the release of their boisterous new single "Defying Gravity" and its official video. Made world famous by the hit musical 'Wicked', PRF's reimagined track joins 10 more high-octane bangers on their highly anticipated new album, It's Just A Stage We're Going Through, set for release on March 31 and available to pre-order now at the link here.

The band add:

"Defying Gravity is a song our fans have been begging us to reimagine for a long time. After we did a short clip of it on TikTok and the fans went crazy it was clear to us that we had to add it to the album. We had great fun breaking the song down and adding our PRF spin to it, and are super happy with how it came out in the end.

We worked with Sitcom Soldiers on this video again, after how awesome 'You’ll Be Back' came out. We found an awesome upside-down house in Thurrock to film the video in so the perspective looks amazing. When we arrived there it took everyone a good while to acclimatise to the house as it wasn't just upside down but slanted too, which made walking around extremely difficult, let alone playing!

It’s got us performing and doing all manner of silly things while hanging off the ceiling. Try not to get sea sick!"

Since their debut self-release in 2019, PUNK ROCK FACTORY have been steadily gaining a colossal online fan base. The cultural sensations have already racked up over 26 million streams on Spotify and 5.1 million likes on TikTok, with over 250,000 followers on Instagram, and over 11 million views on YouTube.

Feast your eyes and ears on the spectacular official video for "Defying Gravity" below. The single is available on all streaming platforms now!

PUNK ROCK FACTORY played their first ever live show at the UK's Bloodstock Festival in 2021 and followed up with a sold out UK tour and slots at Download and Slam Dunk in 2022. The band have steamrolled into 2023 and are currently on the road for their second ever UK tour, with dates selling out in advance again including their largest headline show to date at Nottingham's infamous Rock City.

The group will also pack in 12 recently announced UK shows in Oct/Nov 2023 on the It's Just A Stage We're Going Throughtour, in support of their new album. Special guests will be Adam & The Metal Hawks, plus a DJ set from Matt Stocks. Younger fans will be delighted that the majority of the Oct/Nov dates are aged 8+ (under 14s must be accompanied, under 16s in Brighton), with just Bristol and Norwich shows aged 14+. 

The remaining headline UK dates to catch PUNK ROCK FACTORY at present are listed below. To buy tickets, and for a full list of all performances, including festivals already confirmed for 2023, please visit www.punkrockfactory.com.

ABOUT PUNK ROCK FACTORY:

PUNK ROCK FACTORY are the kings of turning any song into a pop punk masterpiece. The boisterous four-piece take all your favourite tracks and make them sound like you never quite imagined they could! No one is immune - these four lads from South Wales have adapted everything from Disney classics and assorted rock & pop hits to TV themes from across the decades. 

The group rehearse, write, and record everything themselves in their own purpose-built studio in Wales, affectionately known as The Sausage Factory. They regularly include a wide range of special guests in their music, which have included the likes of actress/singer Jessica Darrow (Disney's Encanto), Jaret Reddick (Bowling For Soup), and Spencer Charnas (Ice Nine Kills) amongst others - next welcoming Simple Plan’s Jeff Stinco for a face-melting solo on "Waving Through A Window" (from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’).

With festivals practically queuing up to book them and all their headline shows continuing to sell out across the board too, don't miss an opportunity to catch them on stage if you can!

New album 'It's Just A Stage We're Going Through' is set for release on March 31.

The Avett Brothers Add 2nd NOLA Jazz Fest Show Due to Popular Demand

SECOND SHOW ADDED!

DUE TO OVERWHELMING DEMAND, THE AVETT BROTHERS 
ADD SECOND SHOW AT BLACKBIRD PRESENTS' ANNUAL 
"SECOND WEEKEND AT THE SAENGER" 
CONCERT SERIES IN NEW ORLEANS 
    
With Special Opening Set From New Orleans Music Legends
Anders Osborne & Friends Featuring Dave Malone and More

Making These the Must See Nighttime Shows in NOLA During Jazz Fest

Saturday Night, May 6, 2023, at the Saenger Theatre, NOLA
Tickets Go On Sale Friday, March 3 at 10 AM CT Via Ticketmaster.com

Blackbird Presents is thrilled to announce that due to overwhelming demand, The Avett Brothers will now headline a second show at its annual "Second Weekend at the Saenger" Concert Series in New Orleans during Jazz Fest. The second show, taking place on Saturday, May 6, at the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans, LA, will open with a special set from New Orleans music legends Anders Osborne & Friends featuring Dave Malone and other special guests (and together with the sold-out May 5 show making these the must-see nighttime shows during Jazz Fest). Blackbird Presents' promoter partner for this year’s concert series is Doussan Music Group.
 
Tickets for the show on May 6 go on sale Friday, March 3 at 10AM CT via ticketmaster.com. 
 
This show continues Blackbird Presents’ annual “Second Weekend at The Saenger” concert series in New Orleans. Previous events include The Last Waltz New Orleans: A Celebration of the 45th Anniversary of the Band’s Historic Farewell Concert, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Nightsweats, Ryan Adams: Exile On Bourbon St., New Orleans Is Waiting For Columbus, The Last Waltz New Orleans: A Celebration Of The 40th Anniversary of The Last Waltz, Nevilles Forever: A Celebration of The Neville Brothers and Their Music, and The Musical Mojo of Dr. John: Celebrating Mac and His Music.
 
For complete show details, please visit the official concert event website: SaengerSecondWeekend.com

About Blackbird Presents:
Blackbird Presents is an award-winning creator and producer of premium music-driven content via a range of strategies including all-star concert events, tours, festivals, broadcast specials and films. Its projects feature the biggest music stars in the world (including Dolly Parton, Bruce Springsteen, Keith Richards, George Strait, Steven Tyler, Willie Nelson, Chris Stapleton, Dave Matthews, Jimmy Buffett, The Roots, Carlos Santana, Peter Gabriel, Miranda Lambert, Kenny Chesney, Eric Church, Brandi Carlile, Lionel Richie, Reba McEntire, John Mayer, Kacey Musgraves, Darius Rucker, Jack Johnson, Robert Plant, The Avett Brothers, Sheryl Crow, Juanes, Van Morrison, Sturgill Simpson, Lady A, Little Big Town, Ringo Starr, Idina Menzel, Becky G, Nathaniel Rateliff, and many others), produced for a portfolio of studio and network partners including CBS, Viacom, A&E, AMC, CMT, Live Nation, AEG, Nederlander, Facebook, PBS and more. Recent music, film, and television projects include Willie: Life & Songs Of An American Outlaw, Biography: Kenny Rogers, Imagine: John Lennon 75th Birthday Concert, Peace Through Music: A Global Event For Social Justice, Sing Me Back Home: The Music of Merle Haggard, The Life & Songs of Kris Kristofferson, Outlaw: Celebrating The Music of Waylon Jennings, I'll Take You There: Celebrating 75 Years of Mavis Staples, The Life and Songs of Emmylou Harris, The Musical Mojo of Dr. John: Celebrating Mac and His Music, and All My Friends: Celebrating The Songs and Voice of Gregg Allman, which earned a GRAMMY® Award nomination for Gregg Allman and Taj Mahal's awe-inspiring performance of Statesboro Blues.
 
Blackbird Presents is also the creator and producer of The Outlaw Music Festival Tour, in partnership with Willie Nelson; The American Roots Music & Arts Festival, in partnership with Eric Church; and The Last Waltz 40 Tour in partnership with Robbie Robertson. Visit us at blackbirdpresents.com

BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE Shares New Song, "Glory to the King"

Progressive rock trio BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE is now sharing a brand new single, "Glory to the King!" The song is taken from the band's forthcoming full-length, 'Tempus Veritas,' due on April 14, 2023! The song can be heard below.

BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE comment on the song: "We’re super proud of this song - it’s one of the biggest choruses on 'Tempus Veritas.' The middle section also has some of our favourite vocal harmonic moments, with a crazy riff hitting straight after. The lyrical narrative explores the relationship between an early Meso-American emperor Montezuma and the explorer and conquistador Hernán Cortés. The story, told from the point of view of Montezuma, imagines that the new arrival was initially seen as a god - assumed to be the deity Quetzalcoatl. When Cortes cuts himself and is seen bleeding, the mirage is shattered and the Aztec ruler goes to war with the people he now realises are merely men."

Pre-orders are now available HERE. The album can be pre-saved on various digital platforms HERE.

BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE create huge, memorable rock music that combines heavy-hitting savagery with intense melodic beauty. Their technical, fearlessly complex grooves and gigantic sing-along choruses have already earned them a widespread fanbase.
 
A ferociously tight live band, BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE have toured Europe and the UK extensively, supporting Skunk Anansie, HED p.e, INME and Black Map as well as festival slots at Download, Standon Calling and Planet Rockstock. Black Orchid Empire have sealed the bands reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
 
Having released their debut album ‘Archetype’ (2016) to universal acclaim, BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE signed with German label Long Branch Records to release the follow up albums ‘Yugen’ (2018) and ‘Semaphore’ (2020). Both albums received stellar reviews and over 3,000,000+ combined streams.
 
“Tempus Veritas” is a collection of stories that seeks to find compelling imaginary narratives hidden away in what we all think of as history.  Behind every milestone or major event in humanity’s long, complex past lies a treasure trove of possibilities for invention - how did Pope Urban VIII feel when confronted by his friend Galileo about the true nature of the sun?  What really happened during an almost triumphant but ultimately doomed Everest attempt? What was it like to be a Norse settler amongst the Saxons; did the omens of the ancient gods begin to disappear?
 
In approaching “Tempus Veritas”, BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE sought collectively to push themselves both musically and thematically. Their pursuit of heaviness, melody, emotional power and rhythmic complexity has pushed them to create something they‘re immensely proud of. “Semaphore” was an album of Sci-Fi, this is an album of Hi-Fi. Tempus Veritas.                 

Recording studio:
The Recording Studio London
 
Producer / sound engineer:
Produced by Black Orchid Empire
Paul Visser (engineer)
Dobromir Vasilev (assistant engineer)
 
Mixing studio and engineer:
The Recording Studio London
Paul Visser (mix engineer)
 
Mastering studio and engineer:
Systematic Productions
Ermin Hamidovic (mastering engineer)
 
Line-up:
Paul Visser: Vocals | Guitar
Dave Ferguson: Bass | Vocals
Billy Freedom: Drums

Cover artwork: Black Orchid Empire & Ines Hernandez
 

Band picture credit: Omar Ahmed

Links:
www.blackorchidempire.com
www.fb.com/blackorchidempire
www.instagram.com/blackorchidempire
www.tiktok.com/@blackorchidempire
www.youtube.com/blackorchidempire
https://spoti.fi/3HqEfEh
https://blackorchidempiresom.bandcamp.com

Pre-sales: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/BOETV

Formats:
Digital
Digipak
Vinyl in various colours

Fencer Release "Bad Bet" Video After Debut Self-Titled Album Release

The Los Angeles based rock trio, Fencer, have today released a music video for fan-favorite ballad, "Bad Bet," via Blood Blast Distribution. This single comes from their recently released self-titled debut album, composed of 10 completely self-produced tracks. Fans can stream the album here. You can also watch the music video for "Bad Bet" below.

Speaking on today's video release, vocalist Field Cate shares:

"Very excited to release the music video for our single “Bad Bet”. This song is one of my favorites off the album and I think the video is very representative of the tracks writing process. It was a very therapeutic song for me so I hope others can find something in it as well."

Not only was their debut album self-produced, but it was mixed by Henry Lunetta (5 Seconds Of Summer, State Champs, Grayscale) and mastered by Zach Fisher (Weezer, Rancid, Bad Religion). Prior to today's release, Fencer had previously dropped tracks "Junebug", "Couch", and "Joseph Courtney" which had racked up over 2 million listens across all streaming platforms. Keep an eye out for more Fencer news coming soon.

WHAT THE PRESS ARE SAYING:

"This album is a fantastic example of how to step out and make a scene.

In a mentally visual sense, this album stuck true to the band’s motto of “Everything must be blue.” Each song is a shade of blue, different from the last, ranging from deep, vibrant, and hazy to bright, pale, and cheery. All in all, Fencer couldn’t have put together a better collection of songs as a way to debut themselves. This is an album that will open many doors for the band.

5/5"

CHARM Music

"Field’s soulful, melodic vocals pierce right through you from start to finish and are perfectly accompanied by a bluesy bassline and rhythmic drums. Field’s vocal range on this entire album is beyond impressive. 

This album was just a rollercoaster of emotion and you could feel every word rush over you.

Fencer has really set the bar high for their next album."

Hunnypot

"This album has something for everyone and very diverse."

Bleach Bangs

Los Angeles fans also have the chance to see Fencer LIVE at the legendary Whisky a Go Go on Monday, March 13th at 8PM.

After a completely sold out album release show, the trio has no plan to slow down on curating the best live rock show in Los Angeles.

Fencer will be hitting the Whisky stage to support the 80's classic cover band, Fast Times, along with further support from punk group Drama Dolls.

With an amazing lineup at an iconic venue, this is a show surely not to be missed.

All Ages - Tickets can be purchased here or at the image on the right.

ABOUT FENCER

Fencer, the self-defined garage opera band, is leading a new era of rock music with their own undeniably, dynamic sound. The Los Angeles-based trio consists of vocalist and guitarist Field Cate, bassist Scott Sauve, and drummer Cameron Sauve. Only two years after their inception, they became fan-favorite openers for notable acts such as Badflower, The Wrecks, and Dead Poet Society. Tackling the stigma surrounding mental health and its struggles, Field’s emotive and frenetic vulnerability resonates with listeners to further solidify the band’s electric presence. The trio have racked up an impressive 2 million listens across all streaming platforms, despite having not even released their debut album. Field’s synesthesia (seeing music in color), Scott’s vigorous bass-lines, and Cameron’s expertise in self-producing flow together to create an eccentric style that is certain to become rock’s newest novelty.

Find Fencer Online

linktr.ee/fencerband

Jeromes Dream Announce New Album "The Gray In Between" + Share "Stretched Invisible From London" Video — Watch🔼

JEROMES DREAM ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM THE GRAY IN BETWEEN 

ALBUM OUT MAY 5 VIA IODINE RECORDINGS

BAND SHARES VIDEO FOR FIRST SINGLE "STRETCHED INVISIBLE FROM LONDON"

San Francisco hardcore band Jeromes Dream — Erik Ratensperger(drums), Jeff Smith (bass, vocals), and Sean Leary (guitar) — have announced their new album and third full-length The Gray In Between. The album arrives May 5 via Iodine Recordings. Pre-order it here.

Today, the revered band has shared the video for the first single "Stretched Invisible From London." Watch it below.

"The lyrics for this song were written shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine," Smith states. "I tried to imagine what it was like to try to make art in a warzone. The importance of art never seemed more important to me. I imagined people doing everything they could to make sure they could continue to create.  Not only for themselves, but for any one that could absorb the power of their art. It's art that holds humanity together and prevents us from descending into madness."

Jeromes Dream share history with bands like Orchid, Saetia, Reversal of Man, and pageninetynine. The band existed between 1997 and 2001, then reformed in 2018. The Gray In Between introduces Leary (Loma Prieta) on guitar and was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Jack Shirley (Deafheaven, Quicksand, Joyce Manor).

"The entirety of The Gray In Between is a portrait of an absolutely unrelenting fear and anxiety that never seems to let up," Smith offers. "It is a journey inward. It is a reflection on ailment. It is therapeutic. It is a reminder to get out of bed every day even when it feels like there is no point. It is a reminder of the power that art and music hold. It is an inspiration. It is the embodiment of every emotion that runs through me every day."

Smith continues, "In the darkest of times, we find joy — often with those who mean the most to us. While making The Gray in Between, I knew I could count on being with Erik and Sean every week. In the chaos of everyday life, the writing of this record was the north star that we could look to no matter how bad things seemed to get. We carved out a space that felt safe and the darkness of the world seemed to melt away as we holed up and wrote. I hope you'll find peace and inspiration as you experience this record, in your own way, with us."

SVALBARD - RELEASE NEW SINGLE "ETERNAL SPIRITS"

ASH TO ASH, DUST TO DUST
YOU WILL ALWAYS BE ALIVE IN US

Today, Svalbard are proud to release a brand-new single, "Eternal Spirits", accompanied by an electrifying, live-performance music video. "Eternal Spirits" is an uncompromising, poignant track, dedicated to the memory of the legendary musicians of our community who we have sadly lost. It showcases Svalbard's finesse and fiery spirit, where musical ferocity and ethereality interflow, forging an evocative, raging sea. Svalbard are currently working on their fourth studio album.

Svalbard's Serena Cherry stated,
"Eternal Spirits is one of the most tragic songs we have ever written, yet it is also a celebration of the legacy and musical heritage. It is a song about late metal musicians who sadly passed away too soon and the loss we feel within the metal community without their presence. This song is a heartfelt tribute to our metal heroes who are gone but will never be forgotten because their legacy lives on in the millions of hearts they have touched with their music. It's crushing when your heroes die, but with this song, we want to commemorate our late heroes' glorious music and the legions of bands they have inspired. That inspiration will never die.
 
On a more personal level, Joey Jordison was the person who inspired me to pick up an instrument. I started learning drums when I was 12 years old because of the energy and passion he exuded from his playing. When I listened to his drumming, every hit gave me a surge of motivation. His creative spark lit a fire within me that will never be extinguished. I'd like to dedicate 'Eternal Spirits' to his memory."

Stream"Eternal Spirits" here: https://Svalbard.bfan.link/eternal-spirits.ema
Watch the "Eternal Spirits" video below.

Svalbard will be touring Europe in March 2023 with Cult Of Luna and Russian Circles, followed by a full spring/summer of European festival performances including; Inferno (Norway), Hellfest (France), Gränichen Open Air (Switzerland), Alkatraz (Belgium), With Full Force (Germany), plus 2000Trees, ArcTanGent and Portals in the UK.

Formed in Bristol UK, Svalbard have released three studio albums, three EPs and several split releases. Their exceptional latest studio album, 2020's When I Die, Will I Get Better? was dubbed by Metal Hammer UK as "the most important British metal record of 2020", with both Metal Hammer and Kerrang! lauding the record as a top 10 album of the year. A career milestone, it cemented Svalbard as a powerful and vital component of our global music scene.

Whilst refining their distinctive blend of euphoric black metal, post-rock and d-beat, Svalbard have incorporated a few more surprising influences along the way. From soft, mournful singing to progressive guitar leads, it showcases a sensitive dynamic that lends impact to their most crushing moments - of which there are undoubtedly many. There’s no poetry, no ambiguity - just direct, raw honesty as the Bristolian quartet tackle some very uncomfortable subjects head on. This is heavy in the most evocative sense of the word. The blunt lyrics are equally as important as the music.

The band now look forward with renewed optimism and frankly have every right to. 2023 will see them head out across Europe with Cult of Luna and Russian Circles, having now signed a worldwide deal with the iconic heavy music label Nuclear Blast. In a world ever more open to breaking down doors that once seemed firmly closed, Svalbard seem as vital as any artist right now.

Svalbard 's back-catalogue is now available via Nuclear Blast, rediscover It’s Hard to Have Hope and the catalogue here: https://bfan.link/Svalbard-its-hard-to-have-hope.ema
Rediscover their video 'For The Sake Of The Breed' here: https://youtu.be/nJXDX6-AMBw

Svalbard is:
Vocals/Guitar - Serena Cherry
Vocals/Guitar - Liam Phelan
Drums - Mark Lilley
Bass - Matt Francis