Extortionist Announce Signing With Unique Leader Records And Announce New Upcoming EP 'Devoid' Out December 1

Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, heavy metal mainstays Extortionist have today announced their new signing with Unique Leader Records. In celebration of the news, the band announced their first EP with the label 'Devoid' (set for release on Friday, December 1) and unleashed their new track "Out of Touch" with the official music video. Speaking on today's news, the band shared:

"Extortionist is excited to announce our signing to Unique Leader Records. We are ecstatic to work alongside Jamie and the team at ULR in this next chapter of the band's life. Devoid, our brand new EP, releases worldwide on December 1st, 2023.

Our leading single, "Out of Touch" is both literal and metaphorical in its lyrics, videography, and themes. The story depicts a person battling the 'Hivemind.' This character represents the internal, mental war between authenticity and compromise." 

Pre-save 'Devoid' here, stream "Out of Touch" here, and watch the music video below. Be sure to stay tuned for more Extortionist news coming very soon.

Band names go a long way in helping paint a figurative picture in the listener's mind of what to expect before one ever hits “play.” When it comes to Extortionist, you think crime—you think gritty, raw, merciless and unsavory and maybe, just maybe, a little sprinkling of suaveness. When it comes to the Pacific Northwest’s resident moshslingers, those premonitions from their name are exactly what you get. As a band who have proven themselves exemplary at styles of heavy music ranging from downtempo deathcore to grunge-tinted metal, Extortionist are more than just a jack-of-all-trades; they’re masters. Utilizing bold, roaring guitars overtop crushing, steamrolling percussion and vocals that run the gamut from guttural to grating, pitched singing and topped off with—you guessed it—a now-infamous dodgeball-smack snare, Extortionist have proven that not only are they incredible at what they do, they’re a band that the heavy scene just can’t go without.

Emerging from the relatively understated pastures and prairies of Coeur d’Alene in early 2013, to say Extortionist have been on a journey since their inception would be an understatement. With "The Black Sheep" instantly earning them notoriety with its combination of feral grooves and eviscerating breakdowns, Extortionist proved themselves early on as prodigal masters of all things punishingly heavy. As the band grew and gained more experience on the road in light of the success of their debut EP, their style and dynamic grew as well. After nearly four years of touring and writing, Extortionist would unleash 'The Decline' in 2017, a band that saw their breed of brutalizing deathcore hybridized with riff-heavy metalcore and more introspective lyrics that tackled suicidal ideation and substance abuse. 'The Decline' was met with immense critical praise and continued to open up larger opportunities for the Northwestern act, ultimately earning them multiple co-headlining tours from coast to coast, and a spot on Stay Sick Records, alongside other up-and-coming heavyweights like SPITE and Bodysnatcher. Barely a year and a half after their signing, the band announced their sophomore full-length release, 'Sever the Cord', which saw them experimenting with the inclusion of grunge and alternative influences, adding even more depth and grit to their dynamic. Their sophomore album earned them not only critical acclaim, but nationwide tours alongside The Browning, Betraying the Martyrs, Lorna Shore and First Blood. 'Sever the Cord' was followed shortly thereafter by an eponymous EP which saw them diving deeper into a more exploratory realm of metalcore, colliding ferocious riffs into moments of warm, nostalgic melody. While their self-titled release was widely heralded as the band’s strongest work to date, was declared their Swan Song, as in the weeks that followed towards the back-end of Summer 2019, Extortionist announced their dissolution.

That isn’t the end of Extortionist’s story, however. As 2019 gave way into 2020 and the chaotic months that followed, the heavy music community felt the band’s absence all too strongly. In the early months of 2021, Extortionist announced their return with a series of shows in Spokane, Washington alongside AVOID and Seconds Ago as well as a new single, “Once More in Torment”. Once more highlighting the seamless blend of raunchy aggression and groove-heavy catchiness that only Extortionist can provide, the band’s comeback track is a strong reminder of just how missed they were throughout their nearly two-year absence. Frontman and founding member Benjamin Hoagland states “This is the best place we’ve ever been in as a band...Extortionist lives, and we’re here to stay.” Indeed, with a full-length record in the works and a ferocious return to live performance already underway, it would seem that Exortionist’s relative break was only a brief moment with which to collect themselves before reasserting their dominance over the contemporary metalcore scene. - Connor Welsh

Photo Credit - Jordanne Chapman

Capstan Share Double Singles "Bete Noire" + "Heart to Heart"

Florida five-piece CAPSTAN — Anthony DeMario [vocals], Joe Mabry [guitar], Harrison Bormann [guitar], Andrew "Boz" Bozymowski [bass, vocals], and Scott Fisher [drums] — have shared a double single!

Today, fans can listen to "Bête Noire" and "Heart to Heart."

"'Bête Noire' criticizes a broken system that rewards greed and exploitation while leaving ordinary people in suffering," the band shares. "The song calls for collective action to challenge this unjust status quo and emphasize the need to dismantle the oppressive structures that perpetuate inequality. The repeated chorus lyric of 'Hail to the thief' underscores the message of resistance against those who benefit from this system at the expense of others."

The song is truly a carnival of sounds – thinks gnarly riffs, moshy breakdowns, alternately sung and screamed vocals, and experimental, unusual, and upbeat melodies. It's a gloriously dizzying and layered mix.


The band has also dropped the video for "Heart to Heart." Watch the clip, featuring Belmont and Jason Tyler, below.

Sonically, the song harks back to the glory days of Warped Tour, pop-punk, and emo with its vocal harmonies, singalong choruses, rowdy riffery, and standout solos. It's the best kind of throwback since it transports you to a time long since past — without OD'ing on nostalgia. It also has a very poignant lyrical lean.

"'Heart to Heart' depicts a heartfelt and comforting conversation between partners," Capstan explain. "The lyrics acknowledge the speaker's own shortcomings in listening and paying attention but emphasizes the enduring love and connection they share. The chorus highlights the importance of open communication and vulnerability in their relationship, inviting the other person to let their guard down and be themselves. The song is a message of love, understanding, and the power of shared moments."

Captan are touring next year with Holding Absence.

CAPSTAN ON TOUR:
WITH HOLDING ABSENCE, CASEY, + ACRES:
1/16 — Seattle, WA, US — Neumos
1/17 — Portland, OR, US — Hawthorne Theatre
1/19 — Roseville, CA, US — Goldfield Trading Post - Roseville
1/20 — Los Angeles (LA), CA, US — Echoplex
1/21 — Anaheim, CA, US — Chain Reaction
1/23 — Mesa, AZ, US — The Nile
1/24 — Albuquerque, NM, US — Launchpad
1/26 — Denver, CO, US — Marquis Theater
1/27 — Lawrence, KS, US — The Granada (half house)
1/28 — Dallas, TX, US — South Side Music Hall
1/30 — San Antonio, TX, US — Rock Box San Antonio
1/31 — Houston, TX, US — RISE Rooftop
2/2 — Tampa, FL, US — The Orpheum
2/3 — Atlanta, GA, US — The Masquerade - Hell
2/4 — Nashville, TN, US — The Basement East
2/6 — Lakewood, OH, US — Mahall's
2/7 — Chicago, IL, US — Bottom Lounge
2/9 — Detroit, MI, US — The Shelter
2/10 — Toronto, ON, Canada — Velvet Underground Toronto
2/11 — Montreal, QC, Canada — Le Studio TD
2/13 — Baltimore, MD, US — Baltimore Soundstage
2/14 — New York (NYC), NY, US — Gramercy Arts Theater
2/16 — Philadelphia, PA, US — The Foundry
2/17 — Worcester, MA, US — The Palladium

Capstan released their second album SEPARATE in 2021 via Fearless Records.

A Foreign Affair Share Poignant "Losing The Memory" Video

Sacramento five-piece A FOREIGN AFFAIR have shared the video for the poignant new single "Losing the Memory." Watch it below.

The song appears on the band's new album Still Frame, which is out now.

"I wrote this song as a form of therapy to process my mother's diagnosis with Alzheimer's this year," says singer Alex Strobaugh. "This disease affects so many families and I wanted to pay respect to that pain. In this music video, there are clips from home videos that my family took growing up and it is incredibly personal to me so I hope this conveys a feeling of empathy towards anyone who might be going through the pain that it can bring."

Learn more about how you can help those affected by Alzheimer's disease here.

A Foreign Affair features Alex Strobaugh, former vocalist of Incredible; the tasteful lead guitar playing and electronic nuances by Jared Cambridge; the clean and rhythmic guitars of Nick Blevins; the soulful and punchy bass lines from Jordan Hoover; and hard hitting drum playing from Joe Iuele.

National Recording Artist Frank Ray to Serve as Ambassador for National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) is pleased to announce that Frank Ray, renowned country music recording artist and former member of law enforcement, has agreed to serve as honorary Chief Ambassador of the fund’s Ambassador Program. Frank Ray's commitment to raising awareness about law enforcement issues and supporting NLEOMF's mission to honor the fallen, tell the story of American law enforcement, and make it safer for those who serve will make a significant impact on the organization’s mission.

In his role as Chief Ambassador, Ray will set the tone for other ambassadors by demonstrating the initiative’s goal of building awareness and generating support for the organization via agencies across the country. This is done through the vision set forth by NLEOMF and the ambassador’s responsibility to inspire all citizens year round to value law enforcement and help display the vital role it plays in our society as a way to honor the sacrifice of thousands of men and women whose names are engraved on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

“As a former law enforcement officer, it is my absolute honor to partner with an esteemed organization like NLEOMF, which cares deeply for the men and women in blue who proudly serve their communities and fellow citizens daily while honoring the lives lost in the line of duty,” said Ray. “Being an ambassador will allow me to continue serving and stay connected to the profession. I look forward to using my platform to create awareness about mental health in this profession, lend a voice to the burden that many officers face, and share our supportive message with them so they know they are not alone.”

Because of his deep-rooted commitment to the well-being of first responders, earlier this year, Ray launched a first responder-oriented mental health campaign, aptly named "FRAY" to champion First Responders Mental Clarity. He joined US Senator Ben Ray Lujan (New Mexico) for a panel discussion at the US Capitol, focusing on the critical mental health challenges faced by first responders. This initiative will be a cornerstone of his role as ambassador and its ties to NLEOMF’s Officer Safety and Wellness Program.

“We are honored to have Frank Ray join us as Chief Ambassador of this signature program,” said Bill Alexander, Chief Executive Officer of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “His dedication and his unique perspective as a former law enforcement officer make him an ideal fit into our ambassador program, and we look forward to working together to make a difference.”

Since the inception of the Ambassador program in early 2022, ambassadors have served as NLEOMF liaisons to law enforcement agencies, providing training and technical assistance to officers as well as attending events as representative of the organization. Learn more about the program and how to become an ambassador here.

About the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund:
Established in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the fallen, telling the story of American law enforcement, and making it safer for those who serve. The first pillar of this mission, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., honors the names of all of the 23,785 officers who have died in the line of duty to date throughout U.S. history. Additionally, NLEOMF maintains and publishes comprehensive details on the circumstances surrounding official line-of-duty deaths. The Officer Safety and Wellness pillar uses that data, coupled with best-practice program models, to produce programming directed at solutions to improve survivability and enhance wellness. NLEOMF’s third pillar, the National Law Enforcement Museum (LawEnforcementMuseum.org) is committed to preserving the history of American law enforcement and sharing the experiences of service and sacrifice for generations to come.

 

About Frank Ray:

Texas chart-topper, bilingual recording artist and former police officer - Frank Ray is busting open the doors for a modern Latino Country movement. Growing up just three miles from the border in New Mexico, Frank, born Francisco Gomez, was immersed in the best of both worlds - enriched by his Mexican culture and surrounded by Texas Country music. Praised as “easygoing contemporary Country with Pop-Soul hooks and a dash of Southwestern spice” (Rolling Stone), Frank’s “catalog is representative of his fun personality and flair” (Country Now), expertly blending ‘90s Texas Country, Latin, R&B and Pop. As an entertainer, Frank delivers electrifying, high-energy performances that has something for everyone. With immense cross-cultural appeal and a panorama of influences, Ray “is looking to stretch Country music’s cultural boundaries” (Los Angeles Times).  

  

In the three short years since embarking on his musical journey full-time, he has racked up two No. 1 singles and three Top 10 singles on Texas Country Radio, become a staff songwriter, landed Frank Rogers (Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker) as his producer, signed a record deal with BBR Music Group/Stoney Creek Records and much more. Along with being named an “Artist to Watch” by Rolling Stone and Amazon Music USA as well as a “Listen Up Artist” by CMT, Ray has appeared on USA Network’s Real Country, been profiled in the Los Angeles Times and on NBC's TODAY.  

  

Recently on tour with Old Dominion and now performing at major music festivals across the U.S, this former police officer visits first responders through his mental-health initiative FRAY championing First Responders Mental Clarity, at each tour stop providing first responders with the tools, resources and training to promote their mental wellbeing, as well as that of their families and communities. Having shared stages with Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Brett Eldredge, Luke Bryan, Kip Moore, LANCO, Hunter Hayes and more, the versatile entertainer was just named to CRS New Faces’ Class of 2023. Featured on his self-titled, label-debut album, the cheeky “Somebody Else’s Whiskey” is currently climbing the Country radio charts. The album, Frank Ray, is available across streaming platforms. Ray also celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with the release of Raíces (Así Se Hace), a five-track project entirely in Spanish, on September 22.

COLIN STOUGH REACHES THE COUNTRY ROCK PROMISELAND WITH DEBUT EP

Country newcomer and 19 Recordings/BMG artist Colin Stough reaches a milestone that was once just a pipe dream today (10/20), releasing his debut EP, Promiseland.

A heady collision of grungy Southern Rock and pure-Country style featuring six fresh tracks – with all but one co-written by Stough and produced by the likes of Alex Maxwell, Sean Rogers, and Austin Shawn – helps introduce a Mississippi-born vocal flamethrower and guitar slinger with a true underdog story.

Just 19 years old and coming off a standout third-place finish on Season 21 of American Idol in 2022, Stough was still in high school until last year and had been working full-time as an HVAC technician after graduation. But once his mother convinced him to audition for Idol, that life became history.

Now based in Nashville, and mixing a freight train of full-bodied vocal rasp with a down-home blend of Hard Rock and twang, his debut EP marks the culmination of a whirlwind journey – and the start of an exciting new chapter.

“This EP represents who I am and where I’m from,” Stough says. “It speaks to my life these past few years and has become a source of comfort for me. Maybe that’s why I called it Promiseland. I hope it can be that for you, too.”

Along with preparing for the release of Promiseland, Stough has spent 2023 headlining shows across the nation, while also supporting fellow rising star Kidd G and Country-Soul troubadour Drake White. A series of previous singles have so far racked up more than 9.4 MILLION global on-demand streams, with “‘Til the Day One Does” on deck.

A brooding ballad of romantic longing wrapped in dark Western sonics and Stough’s blowtorch vocal, the low-down anthem co-written by Stough alongside Geoff Warburton, Gavin Lucas, and Austin Shawn is all about an on-the-run loner who may be hard to love – but nevertheless, holds his head high. Crunchy guitars, banjo, and whispering steel set the stage for what’s to come.

"This song is badass, man. It just feels cool, like something you’re supposed to drive around and listen to,” Stough explains. “It touches on the fast lifestyle that I’ve been forced to become adjusted to – but also, it hints at an ability to change. Something that I think we all have to do and can relate to.

About Colin Stough:

A 19-year-old Country Rock phenom and native of Gattman, Mississippi, Colin Stough has come a long way in a few short years – and with his debut EP Promiseland, the 19 Recordings/BMG artist is still just getting started. After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued artistic dreams at 10, boldly trading childhood possessions for his first guitar at a local pawn shop – an instrument he still plays to this day. After graduating high school, the naturally gifted singer and self-taught songwriter began working full-time as an HVAC technician, before his mother convinced him to audition for American Idol. Impressing judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, Stough stunned viewers and soon built a thriving fan base, finishing third on Season 21 of the show in 2022. He spent the ensuing months writing and recording original music, while also touring nationwide to put his blowtorch vocal and guitar-slinging edge on full display. After signing with 19 Recordings/BMG, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style have helped tracks like “I Still Talk To Jesus” and “Bad Day” rack up more than 9.4 MILLION global on-demand streams, and in September 2023, Stough released the single “Promiseland,” along with an official music video. The hard-hitting anthem is the title track to Stough’s debut EP, which is out now and puts the emerging artist on track to reach even more dreams in the future. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Kidd G and Drake White. Stay tuned for much more to come.

Photo Credit: Mike Rodway

KEEP UP WITH COLIN STOUGH

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Fancy Hagood's Cinematic Music Video for "Southern Sound" is Out Now.

Singer/songwriter Fancy Hagood is venturing deep into truth and storytelling with his new video for his song “Southern Sound,” which is out today and can be seen below.
 
“Southern Sound” frames the story of a young queer couple as they brave adversity in hopes of building a future together. The deeply emotional, cinematic music video brings the song to life as it delves into some of the difficulties the LGBTQIA+ community often faces within their own families. 
 
“It’s an important story to tell because it’s happening to so many LGBTQIA+ kids,” Hagood told GLADD, who premiered the clip today. “I was inspired to make this video after so many horrible legislative bills harmful to the queer community were introduced across our country. It’s important to shed light on the fact that this is reality for some people.”
 
In the video, a young gay couple seeks refuge after the father of one young man discovers his sexuality and violently kicks him out of the family home. Hagood said it’s an unfortunate truth for many LGBTQIA+ people who have been displaced from their homes because of familial conflict over their sexuality. The moving clip also offers resources for young adults in the LGBTQ+ community who need food, housing, and council.
 
But the video is a message of hope and community and to make it connective, Hagood enlisted the help of family and friends to anchor key moments of the plotline. 
 
The ‘angry father’ at the beginning of the music video is the Brothers Osborne’s father, “Big” John Osborne. On tour with the award-winning duo. eldest brother John and Fancy often co-write and play live together. In addition to performing alongside Fancy onstage, lead singer TJ (and John) has been a guest on Fancy’s “Trailblazer’s Radio” show and a trusted mentor. 
 
Osborne sibling Natalie is Hagood’s manager and says of her father Big John, “he’s such a supportive father and human but has many times witnessed parents who wouldn’t embrace their child’s identity. He understood the importance of this video and wanted to be part of the story.”
 
The video was directed by Ford Fairchild. A Nashville based queer director, Fairchild also directed Brooke Eden’s “Outlaw Love” music video, which Hagood stars in. Hagood cameos in his own “Southern Sound” video as the bartender who encourages the young couple and helps them find a safe place to shelter. 
 
“I don’t know how qualified I am to give advice, but to any LGBTQIA+ youth out there struggling in any way, I would just want them to know how important they are,” said Hagood. “I would want them to know their life has so much value, and they are so worthy of love and the choice to be themselves 100%. It takes so much courage to choose yourself over the ideas people try and place on us.”
 
 “Southern Sound,” written by Hagood along with Jon Green and Tofer Brown, is the first song released from a forthcoming 2024 album. It’s the follow-up to his 2021 highly acclaimed album Southern Curiosity.

About Fancy Hagood:
Fancy Hagood is a proud queer artist from Bentonville, AR, who now calls Nashville home. After college, Fancy got a job at Forever 21, where his coworkers dubbed him “Fancy” after a Drake song of the same name. He released his debut album, “Southern Curiosity,” which has accumulated more than 30 million streams. “Southern Curiosity” was nominated for Best Country Record at The Libera Awards 2022.
 
The same year, he collaborated with Kacey Musgraves on “Blue Dream Baby.” The song prompted Sir Elton John to declare: “We need more people like Fancy.” His hero, Brandi Carlile, called Fancy an "artist to watch."
 
In addition to his artist career, Fancy also hosts Trailblazers Radio on Apple Radio.

MADELINE MERLO DELIVERS HER LATEST EUPHONIC TRACKS “TAKE A BROKEN HEART” AND “YOU’LL THINK OF ME” VIA BBR MUSIC GROUP/WHEELHOUSE RECORDS

Award-winning, breakout country artist and songwriter Madeline Merlo captivates audiences with a sensational joint release via BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records featuring original track "Take a Broken Heart” coupled with Merlo’s stunning rendition of Keith Urban's iconic #1 song, "You'll Think of Me.”

 

Produced by Zach Crowell, “Take A Broken Heart”  speaks to all the places you can go with your broken heart as you drive forward leaving your ex in the past.

“'Take A Broken Heart' is a song that I wrote on a beach writing trip and have been dying to put it out since,” said Merlo. "The song is reminiscent of a conversation I’ve had with my friends many times and a song I have needed to hear myself at times. If someone breaks your heart, don’t give it back to them.”

 

Also produced by Zach Crowell, Merlo delivers a vulnerable and female perspective on Keith Urban’s “You’ll Think Of Me”, a track that tells of being kept awake at night by memories of an ex and finding comfort in the fact that someday the ex will be the one thinking of her on lonely nights. When asked about the opportunity to record one of her favorite Country songs of all time, Merlo explained it as “a dream come true. I sincerely hope fans will enjoy my version of the timeless song, 'You’ll Think Of Me.'"

 

Having “already proven her songwriting chops” (Billboard), Merlo has “long made a career by telling big emotional stories in the span of 3 minute or so songs” (American Songwriter). Similar to her critically acclaimed label-debut EP, Slide, that scored her praise from Billboard, E! News, PopCulture, MusicRowand more, Merlo continues to build her niche as a songwriter and artist, as she brings to life powerful female stories, from budding romances, to growing up and to the lessons learned in-between. “…Ready to make her name and talent known in the American country music landscape” (Country Swag), the “rising country star's” (People) newest projects, “Take A Broken Heart” and “You’ll Think Of Me”, are out now and supplement her previous release "Tim + Faith" that debuted in September to praise and profiles from Billboard, Circle, CMT,  Country Swag & more.

About Madeline Merlo:
Award-winning songwriter and “rising Country star” (Country Now) Madeline Merlo “has long made a career by telling big emotional stories in the span of 3 minute or so songs” (American Songwriter). After scoring impressive Canadian radio play and winning the Canadian Country Music Association’s Rising Star Award (and being nominated twice for Female Artist of the Year), the “breakout talent” (American Songwriter) released a super-charged new song “Same Car” along with her spirited four-track EP Slidevia BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records. Produced by Zach Crowell (Dierks Bentley, Sam Hunt, Dustin Lynch) and backed by iridescent beats, Merlo’s collection of songs — all co-written by Merlo — deliver powerful female stories, from budding romances, to growing up, to the lessons learned in between. Winner of the season 2 premiere of the NBC songwriting reality TV series Songland, the Canadian songstress’ captivating track “Champagne Night,” recorded and released by Lady A, went on to be a three-week No. 1 song on US Country radio and earned her the 2021 Canadian Country Music Association Award for Songwriter of the Year. A captivating addition to her repertoire showcasing her authentic storytelling and powerful vocals, Merlo released “Tim + Faith” in September 2023, infused with the warm feeling of everlasting love, the melodious ode and moving tribute pays homage to 90s Country music and the devoted marriage between country music power couple, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The latest from Merlo comes with a sensational joint release featuring Merlo’s original track "Take a Broken Heart” and her stunning rendition of Keith Urban's iconic song, "You'll Think of Me.”

Photo Credit: Jack Owens

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HOLY WARS Announce Highly Anticipated EP "CULT CLASSIC"

Genre-blurring provocateurs HOLY WARS are thrilled to announce the forthcoming release of their latest EP, “CULT CLASSIC” on November 10th via Pale Chord Records. Pushing boundaries and defying labels, the "CULT CLASSIC" EP serves as the next chapter in their fearless journey. Fans can pre-save the upcoming EP HERE.

"CULT CLASSIC" a 5 song slasher of venomous assault.

“CULT CLASSIC” sends you into an electrifying odyssey of raw emotion and unrelenting force. From the standout prowess of tracks like "Deus Ex Machina," "BODY//TEMPLE," and title track "CULT CLASSIC", listeners are launched into a tumultuous sonic realm, where ever-shifting tempos, indelible riffs, infectious lyrics, and haunting melodies fuse into a world of distorted beauty. Thematically, this EP pays homage to the cult horror classics but with a twist: the true terror resides not in external monsters, but within—the God of the machine, the mind itself.

Among these gems, "VenoM" exudes a defiant charisma, poised for confrontation, while "TENSION//RELEASE" unveils a hidden layer of depth, threading themes of depression and grief beneath its fabric, providing a breath of fresh air into the EP's intense composition.

Speaking on the EP announcement, vocalist Kat Leon shares:

“Making this EP was a fun and intrusive experience. I wanted to pose the question of what if the horror aka “the monster” was actually inside us? In most thrillers, the monster is an external enemy but in this body of music I really wanted to lean into the internal enemy but also acknowledging how this internal enemy is influenced by our external world and what we are made to feel about ourselves and about others. Cult classic is the climax track revealing the true enemy - the unattainable ideology of what it takes to thrive in a society that is holding each individual under its thumb. I hope this EP and every song displaying the internal struggle of the self, empowers the listener and allows them to have the freedom to unplug and let go of the ever powerful ego."

Sonically, the "CULT CLASSIC" EP lands with the force of a gut punch, melding the eclectic influences of alternative rock, nu metal, hip hop, punk, and pop blurring the lines into a heady concoction with precise intention. Woven within the tapestry of this EP are lyrics that map out a personal voyage—a trek through the self, the ego, and the projections that intertwine with a restless, aggressive psyche.

Nick Perez's deft guitar work and masterfully raw production deliver a sonic landscape that demands replay, teasing nuances and subtleties that may have initially slipped by. Kat Leon's lyrical and vocal prowess strikes at the core with venomous assault that oscillates from intimate whispers to thunderous screams.

Their two previous singles, "BODY//TEMPLE" and "Deus Ex Machina" are a testament to their unrelenting creative spirit and mark the first of many HOLY WARS releases via their brand new label home, Pale Chord, where they join an impressive roster of fellow groundbreaking artists such as Spiritbox, Harper and Thousand Below. These pivotal milestones only further the band’s incessantly gaining momentum garnered from their authentic, DIY approach, which has already yielded nearly 10 million global streams and 700,000 YouTube views across their total catalogue.

Armed with their unpredictable sound, provocative artistry, and the strength of their new label, HOLY WARS continue to defy genres and blow minds. Embrace the weird and stay tuned for more from these sonic shapeshifters soon.

ABOUT HOLY WARS

Los Angeles based duo HOLY WARS, composed of Kat Leon (Vocals) and Nick Perez (Guitars/Production), have a unique and constantly evolving sound that fuses an infectious medley of genres, packed with attitude and lyrical finesse. Newly signed to Pale Chord via BMG, HOLY WARS are excited to usher in a new era of ambitious music starting with new single “Deus Ex Machina”. 

 

Recorded music aside, HOLY WARS’ live shows are an electrifying breeding ground that converts any first timer to a lifelong fan. HOLY WARS take every opportunity to feed off the energy of the crowd and use it to amplify Leon’s charismatic and fearless stage presence which has since allowed them to win over a wide range of audiences. It is no surprise that the band’s high-intensity live performances have led the group to share the stage alongside legendary groups such as Coheed and Cambria, Alkaline Trio, and Papa Roach, to the next generation of up and coming rock artists including The Warning and Scene Queen.

HOLY WARS hit the festival circuit for the first time, gracing the main stages at Welcome To Rockville, Sonic Temple and Louder Than Life while evaporating the DWP Presents stage at Aftershock, as well as So What?! and Furnace Fest.

Find Holy Wars Online

www.holywarsmusic.com

Post Profit Share Announce "Self Defeater" EP + Share "Drug Emporium" Video

CO-HEADLINE TOUR WITH SILLY GOOSE SET FOR NOVEMBER
 
Newly signed SHARPTONE RECORDS band POST PROFIT — Matt Jackson [vocals, guitar], Nick Hawner [guitar +vocals], and Zach Hicks [drums + vocals] — have announced their new, six-song EP, Self Defeater, out November 17. Pre-order it here.

Today, the band has shared the video for "Drug Emporium." Watch it below.

Visually, it's a youthful romp that will transport you back to those high school afternoons — when you headed for the skateboard and bike ramp as soon as the homeroom bell rang.

 Musically speaking, if you dig The Deftones and Quicksand, you'll love Post Profit and their chunky post-hardcore sound.

"This song is about the growing pains of growing up in the real world," the band explains. "While there's nostalgia in the music, the lyrics are about moving yourself forward and evolving. And since we're all fans of skateboarding, it only made sense to include it in the video."

Fresh off a spate of dates supporting Nothing More and Dead Poet Society, Post Profit will return to the road and embark on a co-headline tour next month with Silly Goose. All dates are below. Get tickets here.

POST PROFIT ON TOUR:
WITH SILLY GOOSE:
11/1 —  Orlando, FL— Level 13
11/3 —  Chapel Hill, NC — Local 506
11/4 —  Washington, DC — DC9
11/6 —  New York, NY — Mercury Lounge (Late Show)
11/8 —  Pittsburgh, PA — Preserving Underground
11/9 —  Ferndale, MI —Loving Touch
11/11 —  Columbus, OH — Summit Music Hall
11/12 —  Chicago, IL — Cobra
11/13 —  St. Louis, MO — Blueberry Hill - Duck Room
11/15 —  Austin, TX — Empire Control Room
11/16 —  Houston, TX — WHL Studio
11/18 —  New Orleans, LA — Parish @ House of Blues
11/20 —  Nashville, TN —The End

ABOUT POST PROFIT
Some would say Post Profit have been waiting for this moment since the cradle, with each member being introduced to musical instruments between the ages of 2 to 6. 

Zach and Matt forged a friendship as toddlers ever since their moms became best friends from church in Longview, TX. Nick would later learn of Matt's vocal prowess through the high school intercom. "Matt's father was the high school principal," explains Nick. "And he'd have Matt on there in the mornings singing about refraining from drugs and alcohol and striving for good school attendance." 

Over the next few years, the trio would really get to know each other from attending and performing at local shows. Nick and Zach especially hit it off and quickly became inseparable, spending much of their time listening to music, eager to put their own band together. Meanwhile, Matt was sinking his teeth into a Dallas based metalcore band called Far From Earth.
 
During early 2017, Matt started hosting open jams every Sunday at a smoky East Texas dive bar and one night asked Zach to join on drums. Zach dragged his new friend Nick along on guitar and the trio quickly formed a strong musical bond. They would soon start slipping originals into their covers sets and after months of unrelenting practices and bar jams they booked their first show at a Halloween party in Tyler, TX.
 
With the experience of countless gigs across the South, Post Profit soon gained a reputation for their commanding and impactful live performance, including powerful 2021 and 2022 performances at Welcome To Rockville in Daytona, FL. Rallying around influences such as Deftones, Incubus, Failure, and Quicksand, the band refined their original songs and sound into what would become their 2022 debut self-produced album When You Think It's Right It's Always Wrong.  The release garnered over a million cumulative streams independently, and the success of their single "Smother" grabbed the attention of SharpTone Records, eventually landing them a deal.

GO AHEAD AND DIE | RELEASE NEW ALBUM UNHEALTHY MECHANISMS + REVEAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR 'DRUG -O-COP'

Arizona death-crusters GO AHEAD AND DIE unleash their caustic sophomore album Unhealthy Mechanisms via Nuclear Blast Records. A torrential whirlwind born from the livid minds of Igor Amadeus Cavalera (HEALING MAGIC) and Max Cavalera (SOULFLY, CAVALERA CONSPIRACY). This new installment to the band's dystopian catalog is a fresh dive into the madness of society and the pollution that ravages our minds.

In celebration of the new album, the band delivers an outpouring of raw vision in the form of the track, 'Drug-O-Cop'. The single is the perfect mashup of gritty pissed-off punk angst and extreme metal. Check out the RoboCop parody that features Igor Amadeus and Max as corrupt cops.

Max Cavalera states, ‘Igor and I are looking forward to bringing Go Ahead And Die on the road to the fans. We tackled mental health topics that are often taboo and have added to the corruption of civilization. I consider this to be the gnarliest record I have ever collaborated on.”

Igor Amadeus Cavalera comments, "'Drug-O-Cop' is an old-school punk song to its core. Heavily inspired by the late 70’s and 80’s d-beat scene. One of my favorite songs on the record and a big middle finger to the abuse of power acted out by police forces around the world.” 

Purchase Unhealthy Mechanisms on various formats and stream now at:
https://goaheadanddie.bfan.link/gaaduhmech

Watch the music video for 'Drug-O-Cop' directed by Cody Long, below.

Unhealthy Mechanisms was produced by Igor Amadeus Cavalera while John Aquilino handled the recording in his Platinum Underground Studio steeped in the mystic ambiance of the Superstition Mountains’ foothills. The mixing and mastering were once again handled by Arthur Rizk (CAVALERA, SOULFLY, TURNSTILE). For the artwork, the band enlisted Santiago Jaramillo of Triple Seis Design to create the unnerving design that fits with the album title. GO AHEAD AND DIE's newest record is a testament to declining mental health around the world, and a reminder that we are not alone in our pain. The mind is lost. The fuse is lit. Time to set everything ablaze.

Unhealthy Mechanisms is available digitally and in the following formats:

  • CD Jewel

  • Red Cassette (Limited to 400)

  • Vinyl

    • Red W. Black Splatter

    • White W. Black Splatter

GO AHEAD AND DIEis:
Max Cavalera| Vocals, Guitar
Igor Amadeus Cavalera| Vocals, Guitar, Bass 
Johnny Valles| Drums

“A NEW BEGINNING” . . NIGHT OF MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT SET FOR THE RE-IMAGINED PRESTON BRADLEY CENTER

Preston Bradley Center – located at 941 W. Lawrence, in Chicago, Illinois – has served Uptown for over a hundred years. From Preston Bradley's service vision to the Peoples Church Congregation to hundreds of community-based events, 941 W. Lawrence has been an integral entity. Now, it's poised to serve Uptown and the world once more.
 
And on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 from 5:00-7:30pm (doors open 4:30pm), local musical artists will be performing (including Anji Brooks & Chicago Slim, Chicago Blues All-Stars, Lynne Jordan, Kuumba Lynx, Soul Children of Chicago), as well as a discussion on "our vision for a re-imagined Preston Bradley Center." 
 
Several notable figures of the community will be developing the PBC, including Dr. Daniel Ivankovich, who is an award-winning surgeon and Chicago Blues musician, who trained and worked at Northwestern University, RUSH Medical Center and Cook County Hospital. He is also a former Chicagoan of the Year, CNN Hero and Chicago Blues Hall of Fame inductee. Also Dr. Karla Ivankovich, a board-certified clinical mental health counselor and President of One Patient Global Health Initiative. She has extensive background in leadership, advocacy, and outreach programming. Dr. Ivankovich is also nationally and internationally awarded as an author, clinical educator and mentor.

Additional speakers will be Jerry Bryant (JBTV), Jacinda Hall-Bullie (Kuumba Lynx), Grace Itter (People’s Church of Chicago), Lynne Jordan, Mark Maddox (Buddy Guy’s Legends), Jaquanda Saulter (Kuumba Lynx), Lowell Thompson, Dr. Walt Whitman II (Soul Children of Chicago), and Micah Williams (Urban Tables).
 
The following services will be offered at Preston Bradley Center:
 
• Mental health services
• Navigators to connect underserved residents with resources 
• Senior/elderly programming 
• Community-building hub of action 
• Youth & family programming 
• Performance & entertainment venue 
• Full-service television and media production center
• Chicago Blues history showcase
 
Please join us on November 15th for an unforgettable night of entertainment and discussion. 

Admission is FREE, so please lock-in your ticket to adventure!
 


FOR MORE INFORMATION: 
Please RSVP to Dr. Daniel Ivankovich at divankovich@gmail.com

INFERNO FESTIVAL NORWAY 2024 Announces VOID OV VOICES x NOSFERTU Silent Movie Collaboration

“Something strange and magical happens in the town of Oslo, Norway over Easter week. Most of polite society flees to the mountains while a scourge of metal heads pour in from all over the globe to experience the four day extravaganza of extreme metal, hedonism & hepatocyte known as Inferno Festival. Subsequently, the entire city becomes a misanthropic miscreant’s soggy dream come true, and we’ve got the whole place to ourselves!” - Metal Injection

GET FESTIVAL TICKETS

GET SCREENING TICKETS

INFERNO FESTIVAL NORWAY is now revealing a silent film concert in which Attila Csihar’s Void ov Voices will create the music for the classic German horror film 'Nosferatu' (1922). The silent film concert will take place at the cinema Vega Scene on Saturday, March 30, at daytime during Inferno Metal Festival 2024. Separate tickets will be available for this performance and can be found at THIS LOCATION.

VOID OV VOICES

Void ov Voices is the solo project of Attila Csihar, known as the vocalist of Mayhem and Tormentor, in which he uses only his own voice to create a dark and atmospheric soundscape. Csihar initiated this project in 2007 and has since performed numerous concerts with this concept. Void ov Voices has previously held a silent film concert in Oslo when they provided the music for 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' during Oslo Fright Fest in 2012. We look forward to another silent film concert with Void ov Voices in Oslo, this time accompanying 'Nosferatu!'

NOSFERATU

The German silent film 'Nosferatu' was released in 1922 and was one of the first movies based on Bram Stoker’s 'Dracula.' Because they lacked the rights to the story, they changed names and locations, so Count Dracula became Count Orlok. However, this did not help, and the judiciary ruled that all the film reels of 'Nosferatu' should be destroyed. Fortunately, several reels survived, and F. W. Murnau’s great masterpiece endured. Now, over a hundred years later, the film still stands as one of the great classics in film history. We are excited to see and hear when Void ov Voices soundtracks the film during Inferno Metal Festival 2024.

Please note that Vega Scene has a limited number of seats, so be sure to act quickly to get tickets for the film concert!

Inferno Metal Festival will take place from March 28-31, 2024 across several venues in Oslo (NO).

So far, the iconic festival has revealed a mixture of classic bands as well as some vital and exciting new-comers. Other recently announced bands include Kampfar, Cynic, Jo Quail, Dödsrit, Tusmørke, Forcefed Horsehead, Inchoation, Terminal, Deathbarrel, H.P. Doomcraft, and many others! More will be announced soon!

The current lineup is now as follows:

Dimmu Borgir

At the Gates

Kampfar

Candlemass

Borknagar

Sólstafir

Finntroll

Me and That Man

Carpathian Forest

Cattle Decapitation

Cynic,

Nordjevel

Winterfylleth

Keep of Kalessin

Vltimas

Arthur Brown

Misþyrming

Saor

Mantar

Koldbrann

Konvent

Khold

Crypta

Signs of the Swarm,

Bell Witch

Extermination Dismemberment

Dödsrit

Dwaal

Jo Quail

Orm

Phantom Fire

Tilintetgjort

Umbra Conscientia

In Twilight’s Embrace

200 Stab Wounds

Automaton

Befouled, Vorga

Zustand Null

Forcefed Horsehead

Tusmørke

Visegard

Imbalance

Nakkeknaekker

Celestial Scourge

Deception,

Vomit Forth

Horrifier

H.P. Doomcraft

Inchoation

Terminal

Deathbarrel

Single day tickets and passes are now available HERE.

In conjunction with Inferno Metal Festival, the Black Metal Bus Sightseeing Tour with Anders Odden (Cadaver, Celtic Frost, Order) is back with an all new routing! Following the success of this special event's inception last year, this incredible experience will take Inferno attendees through some of the places that marked the beginnings of Norwegian black metal!

Between 1991 and 1993, many of the most important events during this dark chapter of Norwegian music history took place in Oslo. Therefore, Inferno Metal Festival has put together a field trip to experience these legendary moments in time, including the site of Helvete, the legendary record store once owned by late Mayhem founder Øystein "Euronymous" Aarseth.

Anders Odden formed his first black metal band, Slaught, in 1986 after attending a rehearsal with Mayhem at the age of 14. He was one of the pioneers of the Norwegian scene, dealing with tape trading, organizing of concerts and creating extreme music of his own. He formed Cadaver in 1988, releasing what would be the first Norwegian death metal album on Earache Records in 1990. During this period, Odden performed alongside true Norwegian legends such as Darkthrone, Mayhem, Old Funeral and many more iconic bands.

This field trip has exclusive anecdotes and personal memories of the early life of the scene from someone who was there since the beginning. The daily sightseeing schedule is as follows:

BLACK METAL BUS SIGHTSEEING -

A FIELD TRIP THROUGH NORWEGIAN BLACK METAL

12:00: Departure The Hub, Inferno Festival hotel.

12:30: Langhus station - Photo op - IYKYK

13:30: Visit to NESEBLOD RECORDS the site of “HELVETE” 1991-1993

15:00: Holmenkollen Kapell, re-done after church-fire that took place on August 23, 1992

16:00: Return to the Hub, Inferno Festival hotel.

Tickets for the tour are now available at the below links!

March 28: https://www.ticketmaster.no/event/726031

March 29: https://www.ticketmaster.no/event/726033

March 30: https://www.ticketmaster.no/event/726035

March 31: https://www.ticketmaster.no/event/726037

Official festival hotel - Clarion Hotel® The Hub:

In addition, Inferno Metal Festival is now revealing that the Clarion Hotel The Hub is once again the official hotel partner!

The audience, artists, media, and music industry personnel will gather at Clarion The Hub for happenings, partying and a good night sleep.

Moreover, The Inferno Music Conference will take place at the hotel prior to the festival doors opening on Thursday and Friday, for which more info will be revealed soon! Hotel guests will also be treated to an epic and inclusive breakfast buffet that runs until 11:00 A.M. (it's worth waking up early for!) as well as free access to the swimming pool and sauna.

The Hub boasts Oslo’s best location, right in the city centre, next to Oslo Central Station and the

Airport Express Train. It's also only about a five-minute walk from the iconic rock bars and venues in which Inferno Festival will be hosting bands and special events: Rockefeller & John Dee, Salt, Kniven, Vaterland, Brewgata and Rock In, allowing guest to travel freely without the expense of taxis or transit.

The special Inferno discount price is valid from March 24 to April 1, 2024. Extend your

stay and experience Oslo!

These prices will increase starting on February 28, 2024.

For more information can be found via the official Inferno Festival Website or directly via the hotel's website. The ”Inferno” booking code is enabled to get the discounted prices.

Be sure to stay tuned for more bands, special events and excursions, and more information on the Inferno Music Conference!

The iconic Inferno Metal Festival started in 2001 and is the longest running metal festival in

Norway and one of the most important extreme metal festivals in the world. We are very proud

of this position and we will continue fronting Norwegian metal and bringing bands from all over

the world to Norway. Inferno Metal Festival is being held four days at Rockefeller Music Halls’

two stages Rockefeller and John Dee as well as many smaller clubs around Oslo. The festival takes place during Easter in Norway when not a lot of other stuff is happening in Oslo. The festival are usually sold out and more than fifty percent of the audience are from outside of Norway. The ticket sales are from all over the world including China, Australia, Chile, Japan, Taiwan, Canada, USA, Columbia, Argentina and many more.

Links:

Official Inferno Fest Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Tickets

Craig Morgan’s Enlisted EP AVAILABLE NOW

In late July of this year, country music hitmaker, author and patriot Craig Morgan answered the call from the Army Reserve on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and re-enlisted. The longtime Opry member, who will celebrate his 15th year as a member next week, previously served with the Army’s 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, was making a commitment to attain 20 years of service.

 

Just as the Army has called on Morgan, the Tennessee native has called on some of his talented friends to contribute to his latest project, available now. Appropriately titled Enlisted (Broken Bow Records), the six-track release offers new takes on four of his biggest hits along with two new tracks and includes appearances by an all-star group of performers including Trace Adkins, Luke Combs, Gary LeVox, Jelly Roll, Blake Shelton, and Lainey Wilson.

Listen now at craigmorgan.lnk.to/Enlisted

Photo Credit: Nate Griffin

Opening Enlisted is the working-class anthem, “Raise The Bar,” one of the EP’s two brand-new songs, which Craig sings with friend and neighbor, Luke Combs. MusicRow Magazine raves, “[Combs] is as rousing and raucous as peerless country singer Morgan is on ‘Raise the Bar’ … lots and lots of fun.”

 

To celebrate the new release and his 15 years of membership in the Opry, Morgan will take to the iconic stage on October 25 to perform songs from the project, along with Adkins and members of the United States Army Field Band, Six-String Soldiers. Find tickets HERE. He’ll also play the final two weekends of his popular “God, Family, Country Tour 2023,” in partnership with Operation Finally Home. Tickets and VIP experience packages are on-sale now at CraigMorgan.com.

Morgan’s 2023 headlining tour follows last fall’s release of his personal memoir — God, Family, Country, which he wrote with Jim DeFelice, #1 New York Times bestselling co-author of American Sniper. The book chronicles Morgan’s road to success, from his humble childhood in Tennessee to his years as an elite military operative to his country music stardom. Country music fans and thrill seekers alike will love this intimate look at his remarkable life. Learn more HERE.

Morgan previously served seventeen years in the Army and Army Reserve with the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions as an E-6 Staff Sergeant and Fire Support Specialist and including Airborne, Air Assault Jumpmaster and Rappel Master among his certifications. He is now returning to serve his country in a new way – as a soldier in the Army Reserve. The newly sworn in Staff Sergeant and Warrant Officer candidate will continue touring and releasing new music in his civilian career while simultaneously serving our country in the Army Reserve.

About Craig Morgan:
A multi-faceted entertainer, Craig Morgan has made a name for himself as a country music icon, TV personality, author, celebrated outdoorsman and patriotic Army veteran. One of country music's best-loved artists, Morgan has amassed over 1.5 billion career streams and charted over 25 songs on Billboard, thrilling massive crowds with signature hits including “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “International Harvester,” “This Ole Boy,” “Soldier,” “That's What I Love About Sunday” and his faith-filled tribute to his son Jerry, “The Father, My Son and The Holy Ghost.” Craig just released his newest project, Enlisted, a six-song collection of reimagined hits and brand-new songs featuring collaborations with Trace Adkins, Luke Combs, Gary LeVox, Jelly Roll, Blake Shelton, and Lainey Wilson.

Craig received one of country music's highest honors when he was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Prior to becoming a country music star and TV sensation, Morgan served seventeen years serving our country in the Army and Army Reserve and in 2023 enlisted in the Army Reserve, continuing his military career. Morgan remains an avid supporter of America's military personnel and has made more than sixteen overseas trips to perform for our troops. He is a member of the U.S. Field Artillery Hall of Fame and recipient of the USO Merit Award. In 2018, he was awarded the Army’s Outstanding Civilian Service Medal, one of the highest awards the Department of the Army can bestow upon a civilian, in recognition of his significant dedication to our military men and women around the world. He remains committed to supporting active duty and veteran members of our military through work with Operation Finally Home, the USO and more.

He's reprised his popular headlining run — “God, Family, Country Tour 2023,” in partnership with Operation Finally Home — playing thirteen theater and auditorium dates through the end of this month. God, Family, Country, Craig’s gripping new memoir, released last fall in partnership with Blackstone Publishing. He details all aspects from his inspiring life, revealing never-before-heard stories including how he worked alongside the CIA as a soldier in Panama, fought sex traffickers as an undercover agent in Thailand, forged his own path to country music stardom, and lives his life by the deepest values: God, family, country. 

KEEP UP WITH CRAIG MORGAN

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | X | YOUTUBE 

Randall King’s ‘Into the Neon’ 18-Track Album Arrives Jan. 26, 2024

Raised on the plains of West Texas, Randall King honed his craft with countless nights spent strumming his guitar under the expansive skies, backlit by the stars’ neon glow. Flash forward to today, and King’s road warrior diet finds him revitalizing Country’s neo-traditional sound under a different kind of neon – the radiant glow from the signs of nearly 150 honky tonks he performs in across the country each year. 
 
It’s this inspiration of nature and the humble establishments that have nurtured country music’s blue collar roots since its foundation that inspired King to usher people Into the Neon – to a place where rowdy roughnecking, romantic tenderness and breathtaking emotion are all welcome – with his 18-track sophomore album, due Jan. 26, 2024 via Warner Music Nashville.
 
“You grow wiser with age, you grow wiser while you’re working and experiencing life, and I feel like I have a deeper understanding of what my music really is,” King reflects of the growth he’s experienced since his 2022 release, Shot Glass. “We're moving into the neon era of country music. The pendulum is swinging, and you’re watching it happen… Now I just hope people get their mind blown.”
 
Co-produced by King alongside Jared Conrad, the project incorporates a unique blend of the influences from icons and modern masters alike who have inspired King’s sound; inclusive of the timeless ‘80s country twang of George Strait and Keith Whitley, and the blood pumping, Y2K-era rhythms of Dierks Bentley and Gary Allan. 
 
Showcasing his ability to traverse from a toe-tapping waltzer with “When My Baby’s In Boots” to the yearning lament of “I Could Be That Rain,” King lays it all on the line with songs that could just as easily be enjoyed while slow dancing under the starry night sky or while line dancing at a local honky tonk. With the release of “Hang Of Hangin’ On,” available now, King finds himself graciously holding close to the girl he loves despite keeping “a goodbye up his sleeve” in the past.
 
“Think I’m getting the hang of hangin’ all this music out there,” King laughs. “I sure loved this song from the first time I heard it. Go spin your lady to this one y’all!”
 
Despite being in the studio recording new music in 2023, King has stayed busy on the road, recently returning from his first-ever European tour in September, Neon Overseas, with a set of 11 shows, including sold-out stops in Cologne, Germany; London England and more. As the year winds down, King will support Jon Pardi and Ian Munsick on select tour dates, while continuing to headline stops in Paso Robles, CA; Reno, NV; Salt Lake City, UT and more. 
 
King’s 3rd Annual KingFest in Luckenbach, TX will take place on Nov. 11 with Gary P. Nunn, Jon Stork and Braxton Keith at the helm for support. For upcoming tour dates and more information, visit RandallKingMusic.com or follow @RandallKingBand across all social platforms.

Randall King’s Remaining 2023 Performances: 
Oct. 21 // Corpus Christi, TX // Brewster Street Ice House
Nov. 2 // Nampa, ID // Ford Idaho Center
Nov. 3 // Reno, NV // Virginia Street Brewhouse
Nov. 4 // Paso Robles, CA // BarrelHouse Brewing Co.
Nov. 10 // Webster, TX // Rowdy's Dance Hall - Webster
Nov. 11 // Luckenbach, TX // Luckenbach Texas
Nov. 16 // Royal Oak, MI // Royal Oak Music Theatre
Nov. 17 // Cleveland, OH // Agora Theater & Ballroom
Nov. 18 // Hershey, PA // GIANT Center
Nov. 30 // Independence, MO // Cable Dahmer Arena
Dec. 1 // Tulsa, OK // BOK Center
Dec. 2 // Fort Worth, TX // Dickies Arena
Dec. 9 // Salt Lake City, UT // Soundwell

Photo Credit: Yve Assad

About Randall King: 
A West Texas native and self-described “old soul," Warner Music Nashville's Randall King has never wavered in his honky-tonk allegiance – in fact, he’s worn it like a badge of honor, growing with pride into a leading voice for today’s traditional country. Amassing over 270 Million streams with singles like “You In A Honky Tonk,” “Hey Cowgirl” and “Mirror, Mirror,” he’s kept the twang alive in country’s mainstream while also earning acclaim through deeply personal EPs like 2020’s Leanna, and his 2022 major label album debut, Shot Glass – which landed on both Whiskey Riff’s Top 40 Country Albums of 2022 and Billboard’s All Genre 50 Best Albums of 2022 (So Far). Schooled on icons like Keith Whitley, George Strait, Alan Jackson and John Anderson, but inspired by modern masters like Dierks Bentley and Gary Allan, King first built an independent, grass-roots following on the strength of his electrifying live shows – each one a harrowing mix of rowdy roughnecking, romantic tenderness and breathtaking emotion – never asking for permission to explore his creative vision. He has since gone on to headline all across the U.S., the U.K. and Europe, where he continues to play nearly 150 shows a year and hone his craft where it matters most. Named a Country Artist to Watch by everyone from Pandora and Country Now to Music Mayhem Magazine, his sophomore major label album Into the Neon takes that craft to the next level on January 26, as King’s neo-traditional roots meet the blood-pumping rhythms and sharp, arena-sized grooves of Y2K-era country and beyond. Co-produced by King and Jared Conrad, and featuring 18 tracks, punchy sounds exist side-by-side with timeless swagger, further blurring the line between yesteryear and today – even as King renews his forever-country vows.
 
 
“Hang Of Hangin’ On” lyrics and label copy available HERE

Pop Evil Release Music Video for Top 5 Single SKELETONS!

Michigan-based hard rock group Pop Evil releases the official visual for their newest single and title track “Skeletons,” which is currently Top 5 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart.  Directed by long-time friend Johan Carlèn, the video depicts a supply run in the wastelands of a dystopian future going wrong. A striving man finds himself face-to-face with death. It is a relentless fight between human and machine.

About the video, frontman Leigh Kakaty says, “Sometimes the little things in life come with the hardest challenges to overcome. It was awesome to team up with our long-time friend and director, Johan Carlén, to tell this tale of one man’s determination; to risk it all in a world that is constantly coming after him. With so much chaos in the world today, we feel it is important now, more than ever, to remember we are only human.”

The band is about to embark on their 19-date, U.S. headlining Flesh & Bone tour, with special guests Fame on Fire and Lylvc. The Flesh & Bone Tour commences in Fort Smith, AR, on October 28, 2023, and wraps up in the band's hometown of Grand Rapids, MI, on November 22, 2023. 

Skeletons U.S. Flesh & Bone Headlining Tour:

October 28 - Fort Smith, AR - Temple Live
October 29 - Wichita, KS - Temple Live
October 31 - Madison, WI - The Sylvee
November 1 - Angola, IN - Electric Ballroom
November 3 - Reading, PA - Reverb
November 4 - Asbury Park, NJ - Stone Pony
November 5 - Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Soundstage
November 7 - Columbia, SC - The Senate
November 9 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues
November 10 - Charleston, SC - Music Farm
November 11 - Johnson City, TN - Capone’s
November 12 - Birmingham, AL - Iron City
November 14 - Louisville, KY - Mercury Ballroom
November 16 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop (SOLD OUT)
November 17 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop (SOLD OUT)
November 18 - Cleveland, OH - Temple Live
November 19 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogart’s
November 21 - Columbus, OH - The Bluestone
November 22 - Grand Rapids, MI - The Intersection

Connect with Pop Evil:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter/X

Mister Misery Share New Single "In Forever (Orchestral Version)"

Modern horror metal band MISTER MISERY unveiled their new single "In Forever (Orchestral Version)," delivering a haunting musical experience. Immerse yourself in a world where darkness and resilience collide, echoing the tumultuous yet triumphant human spirit. The song is available on all major streaming platforms now!

Sweden's MISTER MISERY blend clean and gritty vocals along with high-energy riffs and anthemic choruses. Paired with a theatrical appearance, they create an experience that speaks to all senses.

After dropping their debut album Unalive in 2019, the band expanded to new heights. MISTER MISERY took their listeners on a journey that led up to their second album, A Brighter Side Of Death.

MISTER MISERY have appeared at W:O:A, Master of Rock, Full Metal Cruise, Hills Of Rock, and more. They also supported some of the most prestigious bands in metal, such as NIGHTWISH and DREAM THEATER in front of over 15,000 people. One thing is for certain: They will leave NO survivors!

MISTER MISERY ARE:
Harley Vendetta — Vocals/Guitar
Alex Nine — Guitar
Alister — Bass
Rizzy — Drums

FUMING MOUTH EMBARKS ON NORTH AMERICAN TOUR IN LATE OCTOBER

New England death metal band FUMING MOUTH will embark on a month long-tour with DEVIL MASTER and FINAL GASP later this month in support of their highly-anticipated album, Last Day of Sun, that’s out November 3rd from Nuclear Blast Records. Tickets are on sale now for the excursion, which kicks off Halloween night, October 31st in Brooklyn, NY and wraps on December 3rd in Philadelphia, PA.

Purchase Tickets: https://fumingmouth.com/

Commenting on the tour, vocalist/guitarist Mark Whelan says:

“We set forth on tour once again with our friends in Devil Master and Final Gasp. Creatures of the night, demons of the world, and every other walk of life, come join us.”

Out in two weeks, Last Day of Sun was recorded and produced by CONVERGE guitarist and Grammy Award winner Kurt Ballou and marks the band’s awaited return following Whelan’s near-death battle with cancer last year. Adorned by artwork from Stefan Todorovic, the album features standout singles like ‘The Silence Beyond Life’ and the newly released track ‘I’ll Find You,’ which draw inspiration from Whelan’s own recent life-threatening obstacles.

Pre-order Last Day of Sun: https://fumingmouth.bfan.link/ldos.ema

FUMING MOUTH Tour Dates:

w/DEVIL MASTER & FINAL GASP

Oct 31 = Brooklyn, NY - St. Vitus

Nov 1 - Troy, NY - El Dorado Bar

Nov 2 - Boston, MA - The Middle East

Nov 3 - Montreal, QC - Les Foufounes Électriques

Nov 4 - Toronto, ON - Nineteen Seventy Eight

Nov 6 - Milwaukee, WI - X-Ray Bar

Nov 7 - Chicago, IL - Beat Kitchen

Nov 9 - Denver, CO - High Dive

Nov 11 - Salt Lake City, UT - Aces High

Nov 13 - Vancouver, BC - Cobalt

Nov 14 - Seattle, WA - Substation

Nov 15 - Portland, OR - Dante’s

Nov 17 - Berkeley, CA - Thee Stork Room

Nov 18 - Los Angeles, CA - Midnight Hour

Nov 19 - San Diego, CA - Brick By Brick

Nov 20 - Mesa, AZ - Pub Rock

Nov 21 - Albuquerque, AZ - Moonlight

Nov 24 - Austin, TX - Mohawk

Nov 25 - Dallas, TX - Cheap Steaks

Nov 28 - Tampa, FL - The Orpheum

Nov 29 - Atlanta, GA - The Earl

Nov 30 - Chapel Hill, NC - Local 506

Dec 1 - Richmond, VA - Canal Club

Dec 2 - Baltimore, MD - Ottobar

Dec 3 - Philadelphia, PA - Underground Arts

About FUMING MOUTH:

A fiery, resurrected rage barrels its way out of hell’s erupting chasms with blistering fury; Fuming Mouth has returned. Lead singer, guitarist, and founder Mark Whelan emerges triumphant after a life-threatening battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, rekindling the inferno of their music with Fuming Mouth's second full-length album, Last Day of Sun.

What initially began as a full-on, fictional concept album underwent a profound transformation into a concept-reality hybrid, largely influenced by Whelan's harrowing conflict with his health and anear brush with death. Just three weeks away from recording the album, Whelan was struck with a devastating cancer diagnosis. While bravely fighting the illness, he rewrote melodies, drum sections, and lyrics, infusing the music with his personal journey of struggle and hope.

The recording sessions began in October 2022, with Grammy Award winning Kurt Ballou of Converge at his studio, God City, in Salem, Massachusetts. Ballou reached out to Whelan after his battle with cancer and encouraged him to get back to their previously scheduled recording session. Working closely with Ballou in both engineering and production, the band found a wonderful and collaborative experience, as Ballou invested himself wholeheartedly in shaping their sound and vision. Salem itself also helped shape the album, as the Halloween Season had begun. Droves of tourists and residents mixing with people in costume made the streets of Salem seem like Last Day of Sun had come to life. The city where the Witch Trials took place presented the perfect setting for the album to be recorded.

At the genesis of this record, there was no other artist that could have captured the album's essence better than Mariusz Lewandowski, with whom the band had already established a creative relationship through his work on the cover art of The Grand Descent. Tragically, Mariusz passed away while working on the album artwork, presenting the band with an immense obstacle to overcome. In tribute to his spirit and legacy, they joined forces with the talented artist Stefan Todorovic who crafted an evocative album cover depicting a Faustian city crumbling amidst the gray and sandy storms of the apocalypse. A colossal monster blocks the sun and hovers above the city as it burns, smoky buildings topple to the ground; all a visual representation of the chaos and darkness that permeates the album.

Fuming Mouth stands resilient, a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Amidst the carnage and depression lies a flicker of hope - a beacon of light that emanates from within. But as the last rays of the sun cast their shadow, the question remains. Will the people in Last Day of Sun survive? Will their worst inhibitions play out, will they rip each other to shreds, will they give up? Will everything they’ve built have been for not? Will they find a way to overcome, or will their panic lead to failure? 

 

FUMING MOUTH is:
Mark Whelan - Guitar, Vocals
Andrew Budwey - Guitar
Pat Merson - Bass
James Davis - Drums

Follow FUMING MOUTH:

https://www.fumingmouth.com/

https://www.facebook.com/fumingmouth/

https://www.instagram.com/fumingmouth/

https://twitter.com/FumingMouth

PLAGUESTORM - New EP "Empty Eyes" out now on Noble Demon!

Today, Argentinian solo artist Plaguestorm is proud to release his furious new 3 track EP, Empty Eyes. Founded by mastermind Sebastián Pastor in early 2014, Plaguestorm has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, delivering a unique blend of furious and raging melodies, drawing inspiration from both the old and new Scandinavian sound of Death Metal. For the release of Empty Eyes, Pastor is joined by the incredible vocal prowess of Okko Solanterä (HORIZON IGNITED)and the masterful drumming skills of Eugene Ryabchenko (FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE), along with the talented Diego Martinez. With such prominent support, Plaguestorm's upcoming offering is set to leave a lasting impact, showcasing his undeniable talent and delivering a sound that will appeal to fans of heavier and melodic sounds. Listen to the EP's title track "Empty Eyes" below.

Stream the EP HERE

Empty Eyes was mixed and mastered by Sebastián Pastor. The EP is out now on Noble Demon and available for purchase at THIS LOCATION

PLAGUESTORM is:
Sebastián Pastor
Guitars/Bass/Drum Programming
Music/Lyrics/Mix/Mastering

Find Plaguestorm online:

Facebook

Instagram

BandCamp

Find NOBLE DEMON online:

Official Website

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BandCamp

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Spotify