Ready for a brutal blast from a brand new Florida deathcore band?
Then you've come to the right place.
Allow us to introduce you to CRUCIFICTION, the new band from Bloodbather's Salem Vex. The band has shared the video for its debut single, "Caged For Extermination" and it slays from top to bottom.
Watch the video Below.
"'Caged For Extermination' is a showcase of the wide variety of influences listeners can expect to hear from CRUCIFICTION. Lyrically, it's about revenge and the satisfaction it bring," says Salem Vex.
Living well isn't the best revenge! Instead, crafting a deathcore anthem that will leave you scraping your brain off the floor is truly the best revenge.
The band's debut album will be released later this year via Rise Records.
D.R.U.G.S. Drop "Hunger Pangs" Video
Post-hardcore band Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows (D.R.U.G.S.), featuring Chiodos' Craig Owens, have come roaring back with the video for the new single "Hunger Pangs." Watch it Below.
It is the first taste of music from the band's forthcoming third album. The upcoming release follows two acclaimed albums, 2022's DESTROY REBUILD and 2011's self-titled debut.
"'Hunger Pangs' is a song about an insatiable urge and unquenchable thirst for love. This song is both a new era and return to form for D.R.U.G.S.," says Owens.
In conjunction with the release of "Hunger Pangs," and in anticipation of the announcement of their new album, D.R.U.G.S. will embark on a headline tour of the U.S. this summer, with Savage Hands, Downswing, and The Requiem coming along for the ride. All dates are below. Get tickets here.
Having now surpassed 10 million cumulative streams, the band's previous album DESTROY REBUILD offered listeners the uniquely nostalgic D.R.U.G.S. sound they had been craving while also exploring new territories, marking a perfect progression and exciting new chapter for Craig Owens. The aggressive melodies paired with low-tuned guitars and introspective lyrics created a slab of the nostalgic alternative rock sound that we all grew up with and have come to crave. Owens' knack for creating sincere lyrics shined through while touching on topics like destiny, perspective, and redemption on 'DESTROY REBUILD.' It is a physical manifestation of the course he has taken in his musical career and encapsulates each step along the way. It is a bright reflection of one's life and actions, and it encourages the listener to do the same in their own life.
Fans can anticipate the forthcoming third album to be another step in the ongoing evolution of Craig Owens.
DESTROY REBUILD UNTIL GOD SHOWS ON TOUR:
WITH SAVAGE HANDS, DOWNSWING, + THE REQUIEM:
6/7 — Pontiac, MI — The Crofoot
6/8 — Lakewood, OH — The Winchester
6/9 — Buffalo, NY — Rec Room
6/10 — Pittsburgh, PA — Preserving Underground
6/12 — Syracuse, NY — The Song & Dance
6/13 — Stroudsburg, PA — The Sherman Theater
6/14 — Brooklyn, NY — The Meadows
6/15 — Cambridge, MA — Middle East Restaurant and Club
6/17 — Richmond, VA — The Canal Club
6/18 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819
6/19 — Greenville, SC — The Radio Room
6/21 — West Palm Beach, FL — Respectable Street
6/22 — Tampa, FL — The Orpheum
6/23 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
6/25 — Houston, TX — White Oak Music Hall
6/26 — San Antonio, TX — The Rock Box
6/27 — Dallas, TX — RBC Deep Ellum
6/29 — Phoenix, AZ — The Rebel Lounge
6/30 — Pomona, CA — The Glass House
7/2 — Portland, OR — Dante's Live
7/3 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon
7/5 — Salt Lake City, UT — Soundwell
7/6 — Billings, MT — The Pub Station
7/7 — Denver, CO — Marquis Theater
7/9 — St. Paul, MN — Amsterdam Bar & Hall
7/10 — Chicago, IL — Reggie's Rock Club
7/11 — Nashville, TN — Eastside Bowl
THOMAS THUNDER Releases New Upbeat, Latin Jazz, Instrumental Single "Sunshine"
Are you ready for summer? "Sunshine" is the newest release by upcoming musician and songwriter Thomas Thunder. This 16 year-old prodigy wrote, arranged and plays the drums on this upbeat, Latin jazz, instrumental song. The incredible session musicians on this composition are Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) on piano, Ric Fierabracci (Blood, Sweat and Tears) on bass and Terminus Horns (Snarky Puppy) on saxophone, trombone and flute. The song was mixed by Ron Bumblefoot Thal.
Thomas Thunder's "Sunshine" buy/stream links:
https://linktr.ee/ThomasThunder
https://thomasthunder.hearnow.com/sunshine
WATCH "Sunshine" Official Music Video Below.
Thomas Thunder is a 16 year-old upcoming musician, songwriter and drummer from Boston, Massachusetts. His prodigious songwriting has captured the attention of both fans as well as professional musicians.
Thomas began his journey as a musician when he started drum lessons at age five. He started playing in performance bands at age seven at School of Rock, and in addition to drums, he’s learned to play bass guitar, upright bass, guitar and keyboards. Thomas is currently in three School of Rock bands, is an assistant music teacher, and recently joined the Providence Drum Troupe.
In regards to songwriting, Thomas began at age ten when he released his first single and was awarded a prize in the New England Songwriting competition. In fact, Thomas grabbed the attention of the ‘King of Keyboards’ Derek Sherinian (Sons of Apollo; Dream Theater; Alice Cooper) with his songs. By the time Thomas reached the age 14, he released his debut album The Pharaoh's Temple, and his team of session musicians included Derek, Ron Bumblefoot Thal and Tony Franklin.
Thomas also began his collegiate academic journey at age 14. He began taking Berklee College of Music Online courses, and has achieved a Berklee Professional Drum Certificate at 15 years-old, and a Professional Music Theory and Composition Certificate at age sixteen. In fact, Thomas graduated high school almost two years early in January 2024, and at age 16, he was accepted full time into Berklee College Online Bachelor’s of Arts in Composition for Film, TV and Games. His achievements were highlighted by local news stations, including NBC, CBS and WPRI.
The future looks bright for Thomas Thunder!
VRSTY Share "World on Fire" Cover — LISTEN
Genre-blending and bending New York City-based collective VRSTY (pronounced "Varsity") have shared their cover of Nate Smith's 200 million-streaming smash "World On Fire." Listen Below.
"The first time I heard this song, I was absolutely stuck," says singerJoey Varela. "I haven't heard a song that's hit me this hard in a long time. Everything from the lyrics to the way that it's composed is just absolutely amazing to me. I think I knew instantly that I was going to cover it. My only fear was not being able to do the song justice.. but I think I did okay."
VRSTY dropped its most recent album Levitate last fall via Spinefarm. Get it here.
VRSTY are on tour through the summer. All dates are below.
VRSTY ON TOUR:
6/1 — Mechanicsburg, PA — 10 Years Birthday Bash
6/15 — Pawtucket, RI — The Met (With Wind Walkers)
6/16 — Hartford, CT — The Webster (With Wind Walkers)
6/17 — Vienna, VA — Jammin Java Vienna, VA (With Wind Walkers)
6/18 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819 (With DRUGS, Wind Walkers, Savage Hands)
6/19 — Columbia, SC — New Brookland Tavern
6/20 — Orlando, FL — Will's Pub (With Wind Walkers)
6/21 — Atlanta, GA — Purgatory at Masquerade (With Wind Walkers)
6/22 — Jacksonville, NC — Hooligans (With Wind Walkers)
6/23 — Richmond, VA — Canal Club (With Wind Walkers)
8/17 — Brooklyn, NY — The Meadows (With A Skylit Drive)
8/18 — Rochester, NY — Montage Music Hall (With A Skylit Drive)
8/20 — Lakewood, OH — The Foundry (With A Skylit Drive)
8/21 — New Kensington, PA — Preserving Underground (With A Skylit Drive)
8/22 — Baltimore, MD — Ottobar (With A Skylit Drive)
8/23 — Mechanicsburg, PA — Lovedraftz (With A Skylit Drive)
8/24 — Clifton, NJ — Dingbatz (With A Skylit Drive)
ABOUT VRSTY:
VRSTY (pronounced "Varsity") make music as energetic and richly diverse as the city that spawned them. Assembled by band leader Joey Tyler, a Puerto Rican singer from New York City raised on R&B, pop, and Spanish music and equally inspired by metallic post-hardcore, VRSTY blends genres with fearless ambition and visceral enthusiasm. A handful of EPs preceded 2020's debut album, Welcome Home, itself followed by a three-part series of sequel EPs solidifying the band's reputation.
The band (comprised of guitarist Paul Gregory, bassist Javier Dorrejo, drummer Chris Cody, and Tyler) specializes in what Kerrang! described as "endless grooves and danceable parts, punctuated by breakdowns and completed with dark atmosphere." Meanwhile, "Massive,”"from 2020's Cloud City EP, remained the Most Played on SiriusXM's Octane for two consecutive weeks. In a 9/10 review, Outburn described Welcome Home as "effortless, fun, and above all genuine." Blabbermouth raved: "While other bands may have introduced the concept of genre-bending, VRSTY have refined it."
Genuine authenticity and uncompromising passion are crucial to everything about VRSTY. Levitate, the band's stunning sophomore set, is powered by spirited conviction and a commitment to follow their muse wherever it leads. It's an album of rich melodic hooks and headbang-inducing grooves.
Tyler co-produced Levitate with Justin Deblieck (Ice Nine Kills, Motionless In White, Lorna Shore, Fit For A King). George Lever (Sleep Token, Holding Absence, Loathe) handled mixing duties.
VRSTY commands the crowd anytime they perform, connecting with anyone who struggles with feelings of low self-worth, bad relationships, or generally feels like an outsider. It’s a feeling of shared community evident on the band's tours with the likes of 10 Years, Nonpoint, Secrets, and For The Fallen Dreams, among others. Ultimately, VRSTY aims to encourage, provoke, and inspire listeners.
DEATH ANGEL ANNOUNCES 2024 FALL/WINTER TOUR WITH W.A.S.P.
Bay Area thrash legends DEATH ANGEL have announced a fall/winter tour with LA heavy metal icons W.A.S.P. The tour will kick off October 26th in San Luis Obispo, CA and will wrap December 14th in Los Angeles, CA. Ticket presales start tomorrow with public onsales taking place on Friday.
Commenting on the tour, the band says:
"We’re extremely excited to be joining W.A.S.P. on their upcoming North American tour on which they will be playing their legendary and incredible debut album in its entirety!
It was an honor to be asked and we plan on showing our appreciation by delivering a vicious set of our style of Bay Area thrash to the crowds night after night to get them fired up to witness one of the originators of controversial and shocking metal playing the above mentioned classic record in it’s entirety!
Rounding out the bill will be Unto Others. This is a show and tour not to be missed! Be there to experience to the nightly insanity! See you on the road!"
Purchase tickets here: https://www.deathangel.us/tour
DEATH ANGEL Tour Dates w/W.A.S.P.
Oct 28 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
Oct 29 - Seattle, WA - Moore Theatre
Oct 30 - Vancouver, BC - The Vogue Theater
Nov 1 - Calgary, AB - The Palace Theatre
Nov 2 - Spokane, WA - Knitting Factory
Nov 3 - Boise, ID - Knitting Factory
Nov 4 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot
Nov 5 - Denver, CO - The Paramount Theater
Nov 7 - Minneapolis, MN - The Fillmore
Nov 8 - St. Charles, IL - Acadia Theater
Nov 9 - St. Charles, IL - Acadia Theater
Nov 10 - Detroit, MI - Royal Oak
Nov 11 - Toronto, ON - History
Nov 13 - Montreal, QC - M Telus
Nov 14 - Quebec City, QC - Theater Capitole
Nov 15 - Boston, MA - The Orpheum
Nov 16 - New York, NY - Hammerstein Ballroom
Nov 17 - Philadelphia, PA - Franklin Music Hall
Nov 19 - Cleveland, OH - The Agora
Nov 20 - Pittsburgh, PA - Stage AE
Nov 21 - Stroudsburg, PA - Sherman Theater
Nov 22 - Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore
Nov 23 - Charlotte, NC - The Fillmore
Nov 24 - Orlando, FL - Plaza Live
Nov 26 - Nashville, TN - The Ryman Auditorium
Nov 27 - Atlanta, GA - The Eastern
Nov 29 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
Nov 30 - San Antonio, TX - The Aztec Theater
Dec 1 - Dallas, TX - The Factory
Dec 3 - Little Rock, AR - The Hall
Dec 4 - Wichita, KS - The Cotillion
Dec 6 - Albuquerque, NM - Revel
Dec 7 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee
Dec 9 - Tucson, AZ - Rialto Theater
Dec 10 - San Diego, CA - House of Blues
Dec 11 - Reno, NV - Grand Sierra Resort
Dec 12 - Las Vegas, NV - Brooklyn Bowl
About DEATH ANGEL:
Formed in 1982 in San Francisco, CA, DEATH ANGEL were among the era’s groundbreaking thrash bands along with acts like TESTAMENT, EXODUS, POSSESSED, VIO-LENCE and FORBIDDEN. Considered as one of the most influential thrash bands to exist, DEATH ANGEL has released 9 full-length albums, including their most recent, Grammy Award nominated record Humanicide. The five-piece consisting of Rob Cavestany (guitar, vocals), Mark Osegueda (vocals), Ted Aguilar (guitar, vocals), Will Carroll (drums) and Damien Sisson (bass), is on the tail end of 5 year worldwide tour in support of Humanicide, which has included recent performances in Asia, Europe, North America and South America. With no signs of slowing down, the band continues their quest in the name of metal in 2024.
Follow DEATH ANGEL:
https://www.facebook.com/deathangel
https://www.instagram.com/deathangelofficial
Invent Animate Announce 'Heavener (Definitive)' Out Now via UNFD
Invent Animate fans, rejoice! The atmospheric metalcore trailblazers have announced the release of 'Heavener (Definitive)' , and dropped their new track "How We Used To Say Goodbye" (via UNFD). Before today, Invent Animate shared "Sleepless Deathbed" which has amassed nearly 1.5 million streams on Spotify alone and 216k views and counting on YouTube. When asked about 'Heavener (Definitive)', guitarist Keaton Goldwire shared:
“Finishing out 'Heavener' was a really special moment for us. There was such deep self-reflection and proudness that formed into an intense motivation. I don’t think was ever a time where I could say I was inspired by my own band, but this one really sparked something. So we kept writing. The songs we came up with are a true extension of Heavener and give us closure to an era. A new, definitive ending.
'Heavener (Definitive)' includes the original album in its entirety, plus “How We Used To Say Goodbye”, recent singles “Sleepless Deathbed” and “Heavener”, and a re-imagined version of “Without a Whisper.” The band will also be offering a premium version of the album on vinyl with a limited-edition D-Side etching, and an embossed jacket with spot gloss and foil stamping. Truly the definitive version of the critically acclaimed album – 'Heavener'.”
Pre-save 'Heavener' (Definitive) and purchase vinyl variants here, stream "How We Used To Say Goodbye" here, and watch the visualizer below.
After wrapping up an entirely sold-out run with Bad Omens, Invent Animate will next be hitting the road on the Mirror's Edge North American Tour 2024 as direct support to Northlane, with Thornhill and Windwalker opening. For ticket information, please click here.
Mirror's Edge North American Tour 2024 Dates:
June 21 - Seattle, WA @ Neptune
June 22 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater
June 23 - Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory
June 24 - Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom
June 26 - Edmonton, AB @ Union Hall
June 27 - Calgary, AB @ Palace Theatre
June 30 - Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
July 1 - Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues
July 2- Lakewood, OH @ Roxy
July 4 - London, ON @ London Music Hall
July 5 - Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
July 6 - Ottawa, ON @ Bronson Centre
July 7 - Montreal, QC @ Beanfield Theatre
July 9 - New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
July 10 - Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
July 11 - Philadelphia, PA @ TLA
July 12 - Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
July 13 - Charlotte, NC @ The Underground
July 14 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl
July 16 - Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum
July 17 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Heaven)
July 19 - San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center
July 20 - Dallas, TX @ South Side Music Hall
July 21 - Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theater
July 23 - Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall
July 24 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex
July 26 - Anaheim, CA @ House Of Blues
July 27 - Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades
Heilung Announce Live at Red Rocks
Heilung invoked the spirits of the old world for the first time at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre back in 2021. Today, they're announcing Lifa Iotungard, a live album that captures that unforgettable night under the starry Colorado sky on CD and vinyl.
Watch the video of their live performance of "Traust" Below.
Lifa Iotungard comes out on CD and vinyl on August 9, 2024.
ᛯ Pre-order & Pre-save: https://orcd.co/lifaiotungard
Recorded live at Red Rocks in October 2021, Lifa Iotungard captures Heilung's sacred ritual. As torches blazed and drums echoed between the sandstones, a sacred space was created, linking the hearts of the present with the spirits of the past.
"Remember that we all are brothers", Heilung recite during their opening ceremony. "All people, beasts, trees, and stones and wind. We all descend from the one great being".
"Traust" unfolds in a powerful surge of throat singing, primordial rhythms and mystic chants. This song - which first appeared on their second studio album Futha - transports listeners back to a time where the veil between worlds was thinnest. Christopher Juul, Maria Franz, Kai Uwe Faust, and their battalion of warriors, equipped with the lore of ages, cast a spell that reverberates through the bones of the Earth itself.
HEILUNG don’t play shows. They perform a ritual. Every performance begins with Kai Uwe Faust leading Christopher Juul, Maria Franz and the rest of the Nordic collective in an ancient prayer. Soon after, the audience is swept into rapture, swayed by incense and throat singing, primordial rhythms, subtle electronic textures, a mesmerizing light show, an army of warriors and bursts of fire.
Since they began in 2015, Heilung have been paving melodic paths to the past with their unique and mystifying sound. Evading all conventional genre tags and the confines of any specific labels, the group aptly self-describes their sound as “amplified history,” emphasizing their ability to connect modern society with the rudiments of humanity’s beginnings through music.
“Our ancestral Nordic civilizations did not just pop up, exist and disappear in isolation”, says Faust, a throat singer and one of Heilung’s three composers. “With singing these primordial songs we want to give tribute to these cultures, reconnect to the beginnings and remember that we all, from East to West, from past to present, are connected through the exchange of ideas and inspiring each other”.
While Heilung features authentic and archaic instrumentation that ranges from rattles and ritual bells to human bones and throat singing, their captivating brand of music is far from primitive. Producer and founding member Christopher Juul implements subtle electronic elements that elevates the musical atmosphere and provides a more in-depth and layered soundscape.
Indeed, Heilung’s success has been unprecedented, achieving milestones in its few short years of existence that many do not see in a lifetime. The collective already had rapidly been growing a buzz upon the self-release of their first full-length Ofnir in 2015, but their dizzying upward trajectory really took off from the moment they set foot on the stage at Castlefest in 2017 for the now-legendary debut of their live ritual. Luckily for those who were not fortunate enough to bare witness to this magical event, the full ceremony was captured on film, having since been viewed by tens of millions of fans across the globe.
As Heilung trekked across Europe and brought their mystifying experience to new audiences, talk of this new band and their stunning ceremony made way to Season of Mist label owner Michael Berberian, who quickly offered the band a record contract after seeing their undeniable musical impact for himself.
By 2019, Heilung launched their second full-length record, Futha, which contrasted the masculine and battle-heavy themes of their debut with a feminine counterpart that celebrated fertility and female energy. Upon the first week of the record’s release, it graced the Billboard charts with coveted numbers, debuting at #3 on the Heatseekers Charts and #4 on the Billboard World Music Chart, placing on a total of seven Billboardcharts while meeting critical-acclaim from the press on a global scale.
Their music has even appeared in places that extend far beyond typical concert venues. From hit television series like Game of Thrones and Vikings to video game giants like Conqueror’s Blade VII: Wolves of Ragnarök and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II to the blockbuster Robert Eggers film The Northman, Heilung’s music has risen far above the underground and has transcended into a greater world. Even a global pandemic couldn’t slow down Heilung’s success; it only strengthened them and gave them the gift of time to complete work on their third album. In English, Drif translates as “Gathering”. The music embodies this philosophy by tying together the beginning of civilization with today’s modern society.
Heilung now perform their rituals all over the world. They sold out their first North American tour in 72 hours. Upon returning to the United States in 2021, they were greeted by another sold-out crowd, this time at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado. This performance will be released on vinyl, CD and Blu-ray in 2024, along with another performance at the Apollo Theatre in Hammersmith, London.
During the lead-up to the new LIFAs, Heilung will embark on headlining tours of Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Along the way, they will cast their spell over more of the world’s biggest stages, including Roskilde Festival, Download Festival and Glastonbury. But no matter where they are, Heilung always begin their performance with a humbling reminder of where we all come from.
“Remember, we are all brothers. All people, beasts, tree and stone and wind, we all descend from the one great being that was always there, before people lived and named it, before the first seed sprouted.”
Line-up:
Kai Uwe Faust
Christopher Juul
Maria Franz
Links:
Official Website: https://www.amplifiedhistory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplifiedhistory
Instagram: https://instagram.com/amplifiedhistory
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7sTKZr30LqC928DZ5P9mNQ
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Heilung
Bandcamp: https://heilung.bandcamp.com/music
Bandsintown: https://www.bandsintown.com/a/1977594-heilung
Pre-order & pre-save LIFA Iotungard: https://orcd.co/lifaiotungard
Available Formats:
Digital Download
2CD Digipak
2x12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear and Black Marbel
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Silver
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Gold and Orange Mixed
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Red Rocks Sand-Filled
SABATON – The Tour To End All Tours” In Cinemas On October 11th
This year SABATON releases 'The Tour To End All Tours' concert film in partnership with All Things Live! The film will hit theatres on October 11, 2024, and tickets will be released on August 26, 2024.
Titled 'Sabaton – The Tour To End All Tours', this concert film holds a special place in SABATON´s hearts. It was recorded at the sold-out Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, where thousands of fans gathered to watch the band. For those who know SABATON well, you’ll understand the profound significance of this concert. When they first performed in the Netherlands six years after the formation, they played to a small crowd – only a handful of people. Reflecting on this incredible contrast from then to now truly blows SABATON´s minds!
Now, SABATON invites you to embark on a heavy metal journey like no other and celebrate the largest tour to date! 'Sabaton – The Tour To End All Tours' will throw you straight into the heart of their explosive live performance. If you’re looking for energy, pyrotechnics, and heavy metal with a side of history, look no further! SABATON´s got you covered.
Watch the trailer for 'Sabaton – The Tour To End All Tours' Below.
Pär Sundström says: “In 2023, we embarked on our biggest tour ever, and in Europe alone, we covered over 50,000 kilometers with a dedicated team of 170 amazing people, 9 buses, 12 trucks, and even a tank! "The Tour To End All Tours" was an unforgettable journey for each of us – unique, thrilling, and deeply eye-opening. We wanted to share this extraordinary experience with everyone, especially those who couldn’t attend our live shows for whatever reason.”
“Coming from humble beginnings, performing at the sold-out Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam was a surreal and monumental achievement for us. We hope you enjoy the Sabaton experience and we’re confident you won’t be disappointed! October 11th. Mark that date on your calendar,” Pär adds.
Gather your fellow metalheads, and prepare for the metal event of the year!
For more detailed information on this project, visit www.sabaton.film!
ABOUT SABATON
In the more than two decades since their launch, Swedish metallers,SABATON, have achieved quadruple-platinum sales, headlined major festivals and sold-out arena concerts across the globe, and earned a legion of loyal fans by carving out a reputation as one of the hardest-working bands in rock. SABATON combines standout stage design and production with epic concept albums, linking real-life historical war events with classic kick-ass metal. To date, the band has released ten studio albums, amassed six Gold, two Platinum, and one four-times-Platinum awards, seen eight of its albums score Top 10 international chart status, and six claim the Top 5. The band has earned eight Metal Hammer/Golden Gods Awards nominations, taking home the award for "Breakthrough Artist" in 2011 and "Best Live Band" in three different years, and a Grammis nomination (Swedish equivalent to the U.S. GRAMMY) as Best Heavy Metal band.SABATONhas also accumulated more than two billion streams across all streaming platforms.
THE EXIES Announce Long-Awaited EP "Closure" & New Single "s.A.D."
Los Angeles, CA – The Exies are thrilled to announce their long-awaited comeback EP, "Closure", set for release on Friday, June 28th. Alongside today's announcement, the band have also released a brand new video for their latest single, "s.A.D". Fans can pre-save the upcoming EP HERE and watch the lyric video Below.
As a significant milestone in The Exies' illustrious career, "Closure" marks their first body of work in over a decade and features a collection of tracks that delve into themes of reflection, resilience, and new beginnings. The upcoming EP will feature the band's signature - a blend of infectious rock anthems weaved together with introspective lyrics, embodying the band's lasting legacy.
Lifting the curtain behind the "Closure" EP, frontman Scott Stevens shares:
"Closure is about moving from the past so one can walk through the door to the next chapter."
Diving into the latest single "s.A.D.", frontman Scott Stevens adds:
“I wrote ‘s.A.D’ during the grip of the Covid shut down at its highest point. It’s the 1st song that I had written for myself in a long, long time and it became the catalyst for the Closure EP really. It’s about wanting and needing a change. Really reaching to touch and live out your dreams but something always seems to knock you back a peg, yet still remaining optimistic that better days are ahead."
Formed in 1997, The Exies released two influential LPs with Virgin Records, 'Inertia' and 'Head For The Door', achieving combined sales of over 500k and spawning singles that charted at rock radio. Both albums secured positions on the Billboard 200 chart. Their third album "A Modern Way of Living with the Truth" came out in 2007 before the group disbanded in 2010.
The Exies’ music gained significant exposure through placements in numerous video games and tours alongside rock giants like Motley Crüe and Velvet Revolver. Following their hiatus, Scott Stevens continued to leave an indelible mark on the musical landscape with co-written songs amassing over 2 billion streams and selling over 40 million albums.
Now, The Exies are poised to pick up right where they left off with their reunion show and latest single, bringing together the nostalgia of their storied past and the freshness of their current creative evolution.
“For the Viper Room, it’s family; it’s where we got signed. Everything that made a difference for us happened there, so it’s fitting that this is where the reunion show would be held,” Stevens shares, emphasizing the sentimental venue choice for their comeback performance.
Join The Exies as they embark on the next chapter of their extraordinary musical journey.
ABOUT THE EXIES
The Exies, formed in 1997 and named in homage to John Lennon’s shortened term for the 1960s art students in Hamburg that called themselves “the existentialists”, had a prosperous journey, peaking with 2003’s Inertia and 2004's Head For The Door. Both albums were released by Virgin Records and, combined, sold more than 500,000 copies.
In 2007, The Exies put out their third full-length, A Modern Way Of Living With The Truth, before disbanding three years later. Despite frontman Scott Stevens' pivot to songwriting for others, amassing significant accolades and contributions to over 40 million album sales, the band's 2010 dissolution left him longing for closure. This yearning and finding himself at a loose end in the beginning days of the pandemic, Stevens began to write and soon realized that new The Exies songs were materializing before him it just started to unfold happen without him realizing. Speaking on the experience, Stevens shares
“Once I committed to writing and producing for others, I really went in,” he explains. “I just jumped in the ocean and didn’t think about writing for myself anymore. And that’s why it was so odd when I went for a walk in 2020—outside with a mask on—and all of a sudden I hear a melody in my head and I’m like, ‘Who’s that? What’s that?’ And all of a sudden I realized that that’s my voice. It was very puzzling in the beginning, and then it started happening more and more. I don’t know what spurred it on or what caused it. Time? Not being able to work as much? Maybe my mind drifting a little bit more because I have to work. Nobody was coming over here because nobody was going anywhere. And I didn’t want to Zoom write, because although it’s kind of a way of life now and I love it, I was like ‘What is that?’ I really didn’t think about writing for The Exies again until it started haunting me.”
The first of which, 'Spirits High' was released in 2023 and achieved significant success at rock radio. "For What It's Worth" is the next step in the new era of the band. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for more coming from The Exies soon.
Ocean Grove Sign To SharpTone Records + Share Video For "FLY AWAY"
Today, a new chapter rises for the electrifying Melbourne heavy trio Ocean Grove, with the band announcing the launch of its very own label, ODDWORLD Records, as well as their signing to SharpTone Records outside of Australia and New Zealand.
"We're very pumped to be joining the SharpTone Records family," shares vocalist Dale Tanner. "We feel more ready than ever to represent a label of their caliber and are so grateful for their confidence in us. In return, we hope to bring a fresh and unique sound to their roster as they take The Oddworld global."
Ocean Grove have also unleashed a sonic sucker punch in the form of a brand new single "FLY AWAY," with the trio returning to their salient nu metal traditions.
A blistering concoction of downtuned verses, thunderous grooves, rap vocals and '90s-level grit, "FLY AWAY" is an instant Oddworld masterpiece ready to whip you into a palpitating frenzy.
Watch the video Below:
"'FLY AWAY' is a return to our sonic roots and the definitive OG sound," shares Tanner. "With an injection of fresh energy and experimentation, the song primes the new era of Ocean Grove with a hard and heavy edge."
An electrifying force in the realms of heavy music, Ocean Grove fuse nu metal, hardcore, and alternative rock into a sound like no other — a sound that is entirely and wholeheartedly Oddworld Music.
Comprising an eclectic trio of misfits — the aforementioned vocalist Tanner, bassist/vocalist Twiggy Hunter, and drummer/producer Sam Bassal — Ocean Grove have evolved into a global force to be reckoned with, with their unique talents and a shared passion for inventive thinking turning heads and pushing against uninspired standards and musical norms.
From their 2017 debut album The Rhapsody Tapes, which debuted at #5 on the ARIA Charts, through to their sophomore 2020 release Flip Phone Fantasy and 2022's Up In The Air Forever, both also landing in the ARIA Charts top 10, Ocean Grove have cultivated resounding acclaim for their groundbreaking craftsmanship and fearless experimentation, as well as their unwavering connection to their legion of fans.
Brandishing influences that span Korn, N.E.R.D., and Faith No More, Ocean Grove have never been ones afraid to think outside the box, with their unforgettable creations finding them in hot demand with tours alongside Limp Bizkit, August Burns Red, Crossfaith, and Don Broco, and appearances at the likes of Download Festival Australia, Good Things Festival, and UNIFY Gathering.
A multifaceted light at the forefront of the alternative music scene, Ocean Grove will next appear supporting Polaris for their massive regional Australian tour which kicks off on June 27 in Cairns, and concludes in Frankston on July 28.
Feel the Warmth of Summer with Nikitaa's Soulful New Track, “Delirious Summer”
R&B Pop Singer-Songwriter, Nikitaa, has released their latest single, "Delirious Summer," today. Co-written and co-produced by Nikitaa; "Delirious Summer" is a harmonious fusion of mid-tempo contemporary R&B and psychedelic pop, seamlessly weaving together elements of sound and self-reflection. Born from a moment when life appeared intoxicatingly perfect yet riddled with suspicion, the song encapsulates the paradox of experiencing ecstatic happiness while cautiously questioning its authenticity.
Drawing inspiration from the whirlwind of emotions that accompany unexpected success, Nikitaa found themself captivated by the phrase "I can’t tell if I’m unhinged or just better," which became the cornerstone of their latest musical endeavor. Through its stream-of-consciousness lyrics, "Delirious Summer" offers a poignant glimpse into Nikitaa's innermost thoughts, delving into the delicate balance between healing and delusion that many young adults grapple with.
Inspired by musical luminaries such as Frank Ocean, Blood Orange, and Beyoncé, "Delirious Summer" boasts a rich production that seamlessly blends lush synths with evocative vocals, organic drum samples, and both electric and acoustic guitars. The result is a sonic tapestry that envelops listeners like a gentle breeze on a balmy summer night. Whether cruising down the coast with the wind in your hair or lounging on a sun-kissed beach with a refreshing drink in hand, Nikitaa's latest offering promises to transport audiences to a state of pure euphoria. "Delirious Summer" marks Nikitaa's fourth release of 2024, following “Elevator,” “Heaven,” and "Godless” which Rolling Stone included in their "Songs You Need To Know" roundup.
Nikitaa, an LA-based artist born and raised in India, infuses their music with ethereal Pop/R&B influences and their South Asian heritage, creating what they call Goddess Pop - music that emphasizes the fluidity of gender and emotional expression. As a genderfluid demisexual person, who predominantly uses they/them pronouns, Nikitaa is always emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the music industry. With almost 6 million YouTube views/Spotify streams combined, Nikitaa’s music has captured the attention of listeners instantly. Their third single “Majesty'' landed placement on NMF playlists across the world, and their singles through 2020 were released during lockdown with self-directed and produced videos that soared on Spotify and YouTube.
Throughout 2023, Nikitaa explored themes of vulnerability and strength in singles like “Scheming,” “On My Own,” “Peter Pan,” “Throne,” “Daddy Era,” and “Truman Show,” receiving recognition from Rolling Stone India, Radio One India, and Ones To Watch playlist Now Watching. Additionally, Nikitaa's keen ear and exceptional lyricism have led to brand placements with Splice’s Pride Month and South Asian Heritage Month campaigns.
Nikitaa’s work as a songwriter extends beyond their own projects, with credits on tracks for artists such as Trophy Boy (Nightmare, T.O.F.U, & Trophy Boy), Srushti Tawde (Breakfast Over Bae), RIKA (Grown Up), Aastha Gill, Munawar Faruqi, and Robica.
Looking ahead, 2024 promises to be a groundbreaking year for Nikitaa, with an EP on the horizon that is sure to captivate listeners. Inspired by artists like Beyonce for her knack for genre bending, fluidity in style and vocal prowess, and Jon Bellion for his overall songwriting; Nikitaa
continues to push boundaries, blending genres and incorporating Indian and Middle Eastern instrumentation into their music.
The Intemperate Sons Release Music Video for Single "Falling Under"; New Album 'Dark Day’s Night' Due Out June 5th via FRAME|WORK
"Falling Under" is the latest track off the upcoming album, Dark Day’s Night that is set for release on June 5th, 2024. This album has taken a darker turn than the debut, reflecting the crazy times we live in today. Everyone has their own demons that no one else can see. The brightest souls burn the shortest wick before their candle fades away. This track was produced by Amir Derakh and The Intemperate Sons at The Kitchen Recording Studios in Dallas, TX.
The Intemperate Sons release all their music through the Frame|Work record label at the direction of Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck. A brand-new music video for the single will follow on 5/31/24 to the usual platforms. All Intemperate Sons’ tracks are mixed by Amir Derakh at Synthicide in Long Beach, CA. All mastering is done by Mike Marsh Mastering in the U.K.
Pre-order began on Monday March 18th where fans have the exclusive opportunity to secure a limited edition 12" vinyl LP, offered in various package configurations.
Pre-order Dark Day's Night HERE
Immerse yourself in the gritty sonic landscape of The Intemperate Sons' second album, Dark Day's Night. With tracks like the haunting title song, the introspective "Falling Under," and the reflective "Way Back When," this album weaves a compelling story of resilience amidst turmoil. "Unrealized" and "CØNTRØL8" delve into the battle for autonomy in a disordered world, while "Game of Keep Away" offers a raw take on the struggle of self-destruction and survival. The album also features a heavier, more intense cover of Nirvana's "Dumb," adding a unique layer to this already diverse album. Dark Day's Night is not just an album; it's a journey through the shadows, echoing with the sounds of defiance and liberation.
The Intemperate Sons emerged onto the rock scene in the summer of 2019 in Dallas, TX, to bring their distinct sound to the genre. A deep love for music brought family members Keith Watson (drums), Jake Watson (guitars) and Max Watson (vocals, guitars, keys) together along with close friend Mark Marks, who provides the groove on bass to unite everything together. The band's sound has been described as a 90's alternative style that is obsessed with the 70's.
Keith is well acquainted with entertaining massive crowds of concert goers and has played with many successful bands in Dallas, such as Gun Hill, Natural Born Thrillersand Agents of Solace, on top of opening for Lynch Mob, Joe Lynn Turner and Sponge. He is the primary lyricist for the band and has written the music for some of their most successful songs, including “Dust to Dust,” “The Color Within,” and “Unrealized.”
Multi-talented and gifted with the ability to play various instruments, Max is also the lead vocalist of the group. Along with being musically dexterous, he has also collaborated with Keith to write lyrics on the released songs “Going Crazy” and “Way Back When.” In the studio, Max usually surmounts expectations and goes above and beyond to prepare prior to a session with his own vocal harmonies.
Jake is the song architect of the Sons and extremely instrumental in the crafting of the music. His inventive ways of bringing lyrics to life in clever ways are unprecedented and fascinating to see in the studio setting. He is a prolific writer of music as well and is credited with helping create the songs “What’s Done is Done,” “Remission,” “Way Back When” and “Wading in the Gray.” Both Max and he play lead guitar on many of the songs as well. The other members of the band fondly refer to him as the “art director” since he enjoys taking charge in those areas for the group.
Prolific and unifying, Mark is an accomplished bass player and well known in Dallas. He was in the regionally successful band, Haggard, and had opened for Sebastian Bach of Skid Row. His input in song writing has been invaluable to the process of creating captivating melodies.
Despite the pandemic putting a pause on many major events, The Intemperate Sonslived up to their name and let nothing hold them back from making music. Constantly hard at work in the studio, they have collaborated with Amir Derakh (Julien-K, Dead by Sunrise, Orgy, Rough Cutt) and Ryan Shuck (Julien-K, Adema, Dead by Sunrise, Orgy). Both have lent their musical talents to various songs and ultimately have brought the Sons on to their label, Frame|Work. This led the band to also recently join the management roster at The Label Group. Ryan worked with Amir to produce the band’s upcoming track, “Game of Keep Away,” and has had a huge impact on the group. He’s been especially influential on Max’s vocal melodies and delivery. Amir also plays guitar on this latest ballad and has been mixing all of the band’s music as well as performing on multiple songs.
Another notable collaboration has been with Tony Franklin (The Firm, Roy Harper, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Whitesnake), primarily on the first album, The Color Within. He has been a valuable friend of the band and has played bass on some of their best tracks from that album, including “Running Man,” “Dust to Dust” and “The Color Within.”
The Intemperate Sons’ take on alternative rock is a dark and powerful concoction of hard rock mixed with folk and grunge concepts. The band has earned a serious reputation for writing and performing tracks that scratch deep into the backbone of the human experience. There is no shortage of darkness in their writing style, which has a retro vibe with many guitar-driven tracks stacked on top of a groovy rhythm section. The heavier style fits perfectly with the two and three-part vocal harmonies that are a huge part of their overall sound. It has been said that musicians that are related form unique sounds and communicate at a frequency only they can understand. This frequency has become engrained in their songwriting, arrangements, guitar melodies and vocal harmonies. The band has been compared to Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots and even R.E.M.
The Intemperate Sons are:
Max Watson (vocals, backing vocals, guitars, keys, bass)
Jake Watson (guitars, bass and backing vocals)
Keith Watson (drums, backing vocals)
Mark Marks (bass)
The Intemperate Sons Show Dates:
Fri June 14 @ Trees in Dallas, TX
Sat June 15 @ Verma Fest - 3 Nations Brewing in Carrollton, TX
Sat July 27 @ The Railhead Saloon in Lawton, OK
Sat Aug 3 @ Hanovers Draught Haus in Pflugerville, TX
Fri Sep 6 @ The Zone Grill & Bar in Abilene, TX
Sat Sep 7 @ Fitzgerald's Bar & Live Music Venue in San Antonio, TX
Sat Oct 26 @ Lonestar Bulldog Rescue Benefit in Denton, TX
Wed Nov 13 @ Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, CA
For More Information Please Visit:
The Intemperate Sons
FRAME|WORK
GRAIN OF PAIN Celebrates Album Release with "Beneath" Music Video; New Album Out Now on Noble Demon!
Finnish doom/death metal act GRAIN OF PAIN has released its debut full-length album The Moon Lights The Way through Noble Demon. In celebration of the album launch, GRAIN OF PAIN has just premiered a new music video for their latest single "Beneath".The band teamed up with Vesa Ranta, known for his work with renowned bands like Solstafir, Swallow the Sun, Amorphis, and Insomnium, as well as his role as drummer for Cemetery Skyline, The Abbey, and Sentenced.
Watch the video Below:
"The grim riff in the beginning of Beneath opens the album", mastermind Timo Solonen comments. "It begins the journey down to the abyss in which I seemed to be while making this song, it came quite naturally. Not that it’s hard for me to find the right mood while writing songs most of the time. Even the lyrics came easily without much hassle which is just inexplicable. Lars’ performance was so damn good and it was amazing to watch his work in the studio."
Led by Timo Solonen, the band's music is a potent fusion of dark, emotional melodies and powerful, guttural vocals. GRAIN OF PAIN's lineup features a stellar cast of musicians, with Timo Solonen at the helm, showcasing his skills not only as a composer but also contributing growls and guitars. Joining him are Juho Räihä on guitars, Lars Eikind on bass and clean vocals, Juuso Raatikainen on drums, and Sini Pajunenlending her captivating vocals to the mix. Taka Eliel adds backing growls to enrich the band’s gloomy sound.
GRAIN OF PAIN's sound is characterized by its intense emotional depth and draws inspiration from a variety of influences to create a unique blend of dark atmospheres and powerful melodies. The band's commitment to their craft has already attracted attention: Lars Eikind won the prestigious Spellemannsprisen in Norway and both Juho Räihäand Juuso Raatikainen were nominated for a Finnish Grammy with Swallow the Sun.
The Moon Lights The Way is now available digitally via Noble Demon.
Get the album at THIS LOCATION
THE PULL OF AUTUMN releases 'Memory Tree' album, a vibrant and reflective tapestry of poignant indie folk
"A gem... A genuine and welcome earworm" ~ Big Takeover Magazine
"Beautiful... Pure and simple. Lyrically emotional and thought-provoking. It has perfect instrumentation and musicality" ~ Spill Magazine
"Better to travel well than to arrive... this band is not about merely travelling, this is exploration down the unbeaten paths of the glorious unknown" ~ The Swindonian
Art-rock indie-pop collective The Pull of Autumn presents their fifth album 'Memory Tree'. Described as "a melancholy remembrance of moments in time and life", released by Boston imprint RBM Records on CD and digitally.
Earlier, the band shared the lead track 'I Was Just Dreaming', featuring Boston artist Bruce MacLeod on vocals, and 'Opening / Closing' featuring Rhode Island producer, songwriter and artist Kraig Jordan, who appeared on Tanya Donnelly’s three-album set and also opened for Belly at their recent home show in Rhode Island.
Led by Rhode Island native Daniel Darrow of 80s post-punk group Johanna’s House of Glamour, The Pull of Autumn is a collective with core members Bruce MacLeod, Matthew Darrow, Luke Skyscraper James (I.R.S. recording artist Fashion), plus a revolving door of collaborators. Each release involves notable and emerging artists, drawn from the local scene and further abroad.
'Memory Tree' features contributions by numerous outstanding artists, including Philip Parfitt (The Perfect Disaster), Ricky Humphrey (This Twisted Wreckage), San Francisco-based artists Leigh Gregory and Julius Manning, Berkeley singer-songwriter Sophia Campbell, and Rhode Island Rock’n Roll Hall of Fame inductee Paul Everett.
"Instead of the free-genre bending of what came before, this new album is focused on a continuous motion of sound that creates an overall effect of electro/acoustic music and ambient sounds. Hours were spent on the order of the track selection to create a continuous sound that tells a story reflected on the cover of the album," explains Daniel Darrow.
"The tree pointing downward represents the future as well as holding onto the past. This album is a melancholy remembrance of moments in time and life. I am very excited to feature many RI artists whose music I have come to love and respect over many years. Many veterans from around the world also contribute to the album. I feel this album is a concise picture of this moment in time. Every song reflects beauty, future loves and lost loves. I am excited to bring this album and great artists to the light and to have there music heard."
The Pull of Autumn released their debut eponymous album in 2018, followed by 'Afterglow' in 2019, 'Small Colors' in 2020 and 'Beautiful Broken World' in 2022.
'Memory Tree' arrives two years after The Pull of Autumn's 'Beautiful Broken World' album, which involved several music luminaries, including The Pop Group's Mark Stewart, Living Colour's Doug Wimbish and producer Adrian Sherwood.
As of May 31, 'Memory Tree' will be available from fine digital music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp.
CREDITS
Produced & Mixed by Daniel Darrow
Mastered by Bruce Macleod
Cover painting by Paul Everett
01. Memory Tree - Daniel Darrow (synths), Matthew Darrow (drums)
02. Walter Benjamin - Leigh Gregory (guitars, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths), Aaron Carr (cello)
03. Freedom is a Thief - Sophia Campbell (vocals, bass), Daniel Darrow (synths), Kevin Carnes (drums), Dan Laks (guitar)
04. Lovely Fellow - Luke Skyscraper James (vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths)
05. Dolphins - Paul Everett vocals, Daniel Darrow (synths), Kevin Zahm (bass), Bob Kendall (guitar)
06. Awakening - Leigh Gregory (guitar), Daniel Darrow (synths)
07. I Was Just Dreaming - Bruce MacLeod (guitar, bass, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths)
08. Lines Written - Philip Parfitt (guitar, spoken word), Daniel Darrow (piano)
09. A Shrine to Past Memories - Matthew Darrow (synths)
10. Lost Time - Julius Manning (guitars, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths)
11. Flow Motion - Ricky Humphrey (bass, drums), Daniel Darrow (synths, trumpet, electronics)
12. Opening / Closing - Kraig Jordan (guitar, bass, vocals), Daniel Darrow (synths) - written by Kraig Jordan & Guy Benoit.
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Texas' 9-VOLT VELVET share 'Hurricane Brain', a sonic whirlwind showcasing their debut 'Nude Beaches' album
"A glam-bam-thankyou-ma’am wall of roiling guitar, bass, keyboards and drums. It’s a 70’s stack heeled tour de force dressed in space-age fabrics and driving a rocket propelled Ford Transit into space... this is a jet pack so strap it on and brace yourself for launch" ~ Joyzine
"Weaving influences and wielding layers of guitar, this is sonic temptation and a wall of sound in an alluring envelope. With a sonic tapestry of post-punk urgency, shoegaze dreamscapes and subtly haunting vocals, this is a song that demands your attention"~ The Spill Magazine
"A Narnia-like doorway... the repetitious groove and cavernous guitars of the shoegaze world plus the fist-in-the-air, sing-along anthemics of the foot-on-the-monitor glam world.... gorgeous" ~ Big Takeover Magazine
"An impressive, almost quirky edge... giving several punk bands a run for their money" ~ Real Gone
"Explosive arrangements that hold listeners’ attention... blends raw energy and catchy hooks. With powerful percussion and a gritty punk riff" ~ Skylight Webzine
Dallas-based indie dreamgaze outfit 9-Volt Velvet presents 'Hurricane Brain', the latest audio-visual offering in support of their debut album 'Nude Beaches'. Unleashing their pure raw talent, the band explodes with a lively and a captivating blend of fuzz, feedback and the driving energy of post-punk, alt rock and shoegaze rolled together. Here we have sonic temptation, pulsating rhythms and whispery yet hypnotizing vocals.
Now available on CD via Brighton, UK label Shore Dive Records, this 13-track collection blends washed-out fuzzy and feedback-laden guitars, driving bass and pounding drum beats. The band has also self-released a limited edition of twenty 7" lathe-cut vinyl, featuring 'Riptide' as the A-side and 'Hey Candy' on the B-side.
Nestled in the fine territory between post-punk and shoegaze with a surf vibe, 9-Volt Velvet is made up of Mark Cross (lead vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion), Donnie Robertson (drums, percussion, keyboards) and Kevin Robinson (guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals).
Hailing from Muscle Shoals, AL and Dallas respectively, Mark and Donnie met through an ad in a local newspaper, hit it off instantly and formed a band, eventually being joined by Kevin soon after they began performing. Involving past members of of Viva Voce and The Northern Lights, they bring together several decades of experience playing shows with the likes of Starflyer 59, Spoon, The Dandy Warhols, Jimmy Eat World, Sunny Day Real Estate, Kill Hannah, Luxury, Lugsole, The Features, Bleach, Fold Zandura, 764-HERO and Morella’s Forest.
'Nude Beaches' is the culmination of 9-Volt Velvet's musical journey, showcasing their evolution as artists and the unique sounds they have curated together. Inspired by their natural chemistry and a like-minded approach to music-making, in June 2023, they embarked on an intense 3-week studio session in Dallas, crafting an album that explores the themes of freedom and self-expression.
From the introspective lyrics to the intricate musical arrangements, every aspect of 'Nude Beaches' reflects the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and taking risks. This is a sonic journey that invites listeners to embrace their own individuality and revel in the joy of truly being themselves.
Influenced by The Cure, Sonic Youth, Swervedriver, The Jesus & Mary Chain, DIIV and The Velvet Underground, 9-Volt Velvet emerged as a recording artist in January 22 with their debut 'Cathedrals' EP, followed by the 'Mirrors' EP in July of that year.
The 'Nude Beaches' album is available via Shore Dive Records on CD and digitally, as well as Apple Music, Spotify. The 'Riptide / Hey, Candy' 7" vinyl edition is available exclusively from 9-Volt Velvet's Bandcamp.
CREDITS
Written and performed by 9-Volt Velvet
Mark Cross - lead vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion
Donnie Robertson - drums, percussion, keyboards
Kevin Robinson - guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals
Recorded at Starlight Studios (Dallas) by Donnie Robertson & Jeff Ross
Produced, mixed & mastered by Donnie Robertson
CD released via Shore Dive Records
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR
Keep up with 9-Volt Velvet
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NEONFLY Announces Live EP and Presents Music Video for "Highways to Nowhere"!
UK alternative metal act NEONFLY has announced the release of the band's upcoming live EP Master Tapes - 10 Years Live at Masters of Rock, set to be released on June 19 via Noble Demon.
Having graced the festival for the 4th time in ten years back in 2022, this digital EP commemorates their decade-long journey since their first captivating performance on the international stage. Masters of Rock festival holds a special place in NEONFLY's hearts as it provided them with a crucial platform that kick-started the band's global presence. With each performance, NEONFLY has established a profound connection with their fans and the festival community, culminating in this special EP that commemorates their decade-long adventure at Masters Of Rock festival from humble beginnings to the here and now.
NEONFLY comments: "Our journey with Masters of Rock began in 2012 when we played to a packed second stage, winning the hearts and minds of everyone present. This led to us returning the following year and being promoted to an early afternoon slot on the Main Stage. Since then, the Czech fans, and especially those at Masters of Rock, have always held a special place in our hearts. Playing there feels like coming home, and we wanted to show our gratitude to all the fans who rocked out with us over the years, as well as to the fantastic team at Pragokoncert for their unwavering support."
Our first live recording dates back to our Main Stage debut in 2013, where we premiered the yet-to-be-released track "Heart of the Sun," later featured on our second album. The live version has been remixed and remastered for this release. In 2015, we returned for another epic Main Stage performance, proving that Neonfly was here to stay and a force to be reckoned with. That show also marked the debut of our visually captivating fire-breathing act, performed by guitarist Frederick Thunder, which has since then become a festival staple for us. Two tracks are taken from that show, "A Gift to Remember" and "Morning Star."
"'Although we performed at Metalfest 2017, also organized by Pragokoncert, it took seven years for us to return to Masters of Rock. Originally scheduled for 2020, the pandemic put our plans on hold until 2022, turning our return into a special moment, marking our 10-year 'MORversary.' "Highways to Nowhere" and "This World is Burning" are taken from that show, with their respective videos edited by Frederick Thunder."
Watch the music video for the first single "Highways to Nowhere", which the band performed at the Masters of Rock Festival 2022:
Guitarist Frederick Thunder about the track: "‘Highways to Nowhere’ has been a staple in our setlist since our second album ‘Strangers in Paradise’ came out. It’s really punchy and straight-forward, and it’s a great song to start the set with a bang and set the tone for the rest of the show. Even after all these years, the song only seems to have grown in popularity as evidenced by the number of people who request it and the way it’s positioned itself as one of our most popular songs on streaming platforms. It seemed like a great option as the starting track of our EP to celebrate what Neonfly is all about live."
- Original photograph by Veronika Hesounová -
Revisiting unforgettable moments from their triumphant return in 2022 after a seven-year hiatus, NEONFLY offers a vibrant snapshot of their spirited performances with anthems like "Highways to Nowhere" and "This World is Burning," capturing the essence of their 10-year "MORversary." With their seamless blend of raw energy, intricate melodies, and captivating visuals, NEONFLY's live recordings transcend mere music, embodying a celebration of unity, resilience, and passion shared with fans worldwide.
Master Tapes - 10 Years Live at Masters of Rock will be coming out digitally on June 19 via Noble Demon. The EP is available for pre-save at THIS LOCATION.
Neonfly are:
Willy Norton - Vocals
Frederick Thunder - Guitars
Paul Miller - Bass
Declan Brown - Drums
Find Neonfly online:
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Portland's FEDERALE presents 'No Strangers' single & announces tour dates. The new 'Reverb & Seduction' album marks 20 years
“Equal parts Ennio Morricone, Lee Hazelwood, and Nick Cave with a touch of Chris Isaak’s less romantic side… few if any artists are brave and/or creative enough to channel this ghostly, often ominous vibe into moving, sensual and stirring music” ~ American Songwriter
"Their most immersive and varied album to date, Collin Hegna and his merry band of music-makers take us on a fantastic journey... and on ‘Heaven Forgive Me’, Hegna channels the post-punk vibes of such bands as The Church, Pink Turns Blue and The Mission to our delight" ~ The Spill Magazine
Portland-based collective Federale presents their new single 'No Strangers', which pays homage to the legendary Lee Hazlewood. At the same time, they announces their 'Reverb & Seduction' Tour, which will lead them up and down America's West coast and beyond.
This song involves Dave Mudie (drummer for The Dandy Warhols' Courtney Barnett), Andrew Joslyn (Nancy Wilson, Kei$ha, Macklemore, Leslie Odom Jr., Mark Lanegan) on strings, and Hunter Lea (Grammy nominated Nancy Sinatra / Lee Hazlewood re-issue producer) on harpsichord.
This is the second single from their 'Reverb & Seduction' album, out this summer via Jealous Butcher Records. Earlier, the band released the lead track 'Heaven Forgive Me', featuring The Black Angels' Alex Maas on backing vocals.
In the 20 years of their existence, Federale has carved out a unique niche within the indie music landscape, blending their signature spaghetti-Western instrumental sound with increasing doses of moody vocal arrangements in the spirit of Lee Hazlewood and late-period Leonard Cohen. Through it all, songwriter and lead singer Collin Hegna – who also spent the last 20 years as a dues-paying member of The Brian Jonestown Massacre – maintains a strictly retro vibe. Federale's records have always sounded period-correct for an alternate-universe 1971, where rock and roll never caught on.
Their sixth studio album, 'Reverb & Seduction' marks the band’s twentieth anniversary. The band’s most immersive and varied album to date, with do-it-all frontman Collin Hegna at the height of his powers, this is a tour-de-force road trip from psych rock to country duets, never straying too far from the spaghetti western roots that inspired the band many blood-moons ago.
“'No Strangers' is an ode to the story songs of Lee Hazlewood. But this time our narrator is on a warpath. Like the leader of a biker gang or a band of musical outlaws, our protagonist rolls into town a Stranger and finds the hypocritically self righteous town folks are none too happy to see him. This doesn't worry him though, because our antihero plans to even the scales in any way necessary. Musically the marriage of strings, pedal steel and reverbed-out guitars transports us to a nondescript time and a nondescript place that is definitely in the past and definitely in the desert. It may be a rugged, dangerous place. But it sure sounds cool. Too bad The Stranger had to burn it all down in the end," says Collin Hegna.
"Each Federale release has sought to embrace influences ever farther afield from the band’s original concept as an ode to Spaghetti Western film music. But one aesthetic constant (as far as non-instrumental songs go) has been the dark, narrative driven folk ballad".
Comprising 10 tracks, 'Reverb & Seduction' was recorded at Revolver Studios in Portland and engineered by Collin Hegna, Matt Thomson and Andrew Joslyn, who boasts five 5 Grammy Award winning albums. Mixed by Jeff Stuart Saltzman (The Black Keys, The High Violets), Matt Thomson and Collin Hegna, this album was mastered by Adam Gonsalves at Telegraph Mastering.
These new musical homages are complemented by a new lineup of well-known Portland rock-scene vets, including talents from The Shivas, Roselit Bone, Dandy Warhols, Rogue Wave and Delines. Going forward, Federale expects to fully embrace the role of a working, touring band, starting with a West Coast tour timed to coincide with the new record's July release. A European tour will follow in late fall 2024.
'No Strangers' is out now, available everywhere digitally, including Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Band camp. The full 'Reverb & Seduction' album, which can be pre-ordered now, and will be released on July 12, available on CD and vinyl wherever fine records are sold. Tour tickets are also now available for order.
SINGLE CREDITS
Written, arranged and produced by Collin Hegna
Mixed by Jeff Stuart Saltzman
Mastered by Adam Gonsalves at Telegraph Mastering
Recording Engineering - Collin Hegna, Matt Thomson, Andrew Joslyn
Recorded at Revolver Studios in Portland, OR
Dave Mudle - drums
Rick Pedrosa - pedal Steel & Guitar
Andrew Joslyn - strings
Hunter Lea - harpsichord
Collin Hegna - all other Instruments, percussion & vocals
Released by Jealous Butcher Records
Management: Andy Ross @ Exit Strategy Productions
Publicity: Shauna McLarnon @ Shameless Promotion PR
Video created by Little Richard’s Almanac, animated by Ron Laboray and Niki Elliott
Tour poster designed by Tobias Berblinger
TOUR DATES
JULY 12 Portland, OR - Mississippi Studios
JULY 13 Eugene, OR - Sam Bond's Garage
JULY 14 Seattle, WA - Madame Lou's
JULY 16 Boise, ID - Realms
JULY 17 Salt Lake City, UT - International Bar
JULY 18 Las Vegas, NV - The Usual Place
JULY 19 Pioneertown CA - The Red Dog Saloon
JULY 20 Jacumba Hot Springs, CA - Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel
JULY 21 Los Angeles, CA - Gold Diggers
AUG 24 San Francisco, CA - Kilowatt
OCT 4 Reno, NV - Offbeat Fest
OCT 31 Austin, TX - Levitation Festival
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Frenchy and the Punk unveil blissfully alluring 'Like In A Dream' single amidst headlining UK tour
Explosive, subdued, confrontational, soothing, spikey and accessible" ~ Big Takeover Magazine
"Steeped in a melancholic grace, Frenchy and the Punk weave light into their darkness, both visually and aurally... a potent goth-alternative concoction, a boozy blend of classic post-punk infused with daring, catchy guitar work that pushes the boundaries of the genre" ~ The Spill Magazine
"Penetrating psych-soaked post-punk... Brimming with their signature cinematic drama and that unforgettable voice" ~ Global Texan Chronicles
"An inspiriting slice of post punk hued, new wave nurtured rock ‘n’ roll... under the skin and hungrily stirring the imagination in a flash" ~ Ringmaster Review
NYC post-punk duo Frenchy and the Punk presents 'Like In A Dream',
a single that pierces the gloom with flickers of light, their sound steeped in melancholic grace. This is the second offering from their 'Midnight Garden' album, forthcoming via NYC indie imprint EA Recordings.
Torchbearers of a new era in post-punk, the duo earlier released the lead track - the dance floor frenzy 'Hypnotized', one year since releasing their critically-acclaimed 'Zen Ghost' album.
Formed in 2005, Frenchy and the Punk is vocalist, percussionist and lyricist Samantha Stephenson and guitarist-composer Scott Helland, co-founder of Deep Wound (with Dinosaur Jr. icons J Mascis and Lou Barlow) and Outpatients. Named one of the Top 25 duos in the US by Yahoo! Music, they profess a vivid blend of post-punk, dark folk, new wave, goth and punk cabaret. Helland is also known for his exceptional solo music project Guitarmy of One.
“’Like In A Dream’ was one of the songs we came up with in Paris. I often write lyrics in a stream of consciousness way as if the lyrics were attached to the guitar riff that Scott is playing. It can be that old, ‘which comes first?’, question. Do the riffs present themselves because the lyrics exist or are the lyrics born out of the guitar riffs. Or are Scott and my subconsciouses so connected that they both exist and emerge together? This song is about perspective, the cycle of life, and the ever beautiful embrace of love,” says Samantha Stephenson.
Scott Helland adds, “On ‘Like in a Dream’, in the majority of the song, I play heavily reverbed single note guitar lines. It was a real treat to record, in what I like to call “the Gilmour type of feel”. I wanted those notes to ring and just be felt in an emotive way and to keep within that dreamy floaty-ness that Samantha conjures vocally and lyrically. The single note lines differ from the wall of acoustic and semi electric tones and chords that usually make up our songs, though that wall of sound does come in as the lead up to the end of this track.”
On 'Midnight Garden', Stephenson hits her stride - lyrically, vocally and with the synth sounds peppering the album. Helland shows his knack for infectious, and often euphoric, guitar melodies, propelling these tracks and perfectly complementing Frenchy's vocals.
This collection bursts with dance grooves, guitar-driven upbeat melodies and soaring vocals. Written in France and the USA, this post-punk, new wave and dark alternative-drenched cauldron of songs address themes ranging from the gothic reimagining of the garden of eden, rising from the ashes and starting over, to socio-political commentary,
“We filmed the majority of the footage for ‘Like In A Dream’ at Art OMI and sculpture park in Ghent, NY, mostly utilizing the piece by LevenBetts called ‘Zoid’. The minimalist nature of the design and how it captures light with its repetitive geometric shapes seemed like a perfect structure to play within," says Stephenson.
"The stark architecture placed in an expansive landscape mirrors and complements the minimalist and dreamy feel of the song. Another portion of the dance footage was filmed during the recent eclipse in April. It felt like an interesting time to capture movement. In a moment of time when so many came together to witness a beautiful natural phenomenon, it felt like an escape from the mundane which also felt in harmony with the song.”
The duo has forged their own distinct path, touring across the US and Europe with their artful two-person powerhouse of sound. To date, they've performed with Dead Can Dance's Peter Ulrich and Dresden Dolls' Brian Viglione, Thomas Dolby, Dinosaur Jr., The World Inferno Friendship Society, Rasputina, Cruxshadows, Aurelio Voltaire and Faun.
As of May 28, 'Lost In A Dream' is out everywhere online, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. The 'Midnight Garden' album, which is now available for pre-order, will be released on vinyl, CD and digitally on June 28. The band has just kicked off their UK tour, alongside Miranda Sex Garden. American tour dates follow in late June.
CREDITS
Samantha Stephenson - Vocals, Percussion, Keyboard
Scott Helland - Guitar, Bass, Drums and Drum Programming
Recorded at Split Rock Studios (New Paltz, NY)
Recorded & mixed by Jason Sarubbi
Mastered by Martin Bowes at The Cage (Coventry UK)
Written, performed and produced by Frenchy and the Punk
Single artwork by Samantha Stephenson
Artist photos by Nicola Bee
TOUR DATES
JUN 22 Salem, MA - Darq Salem
JUL 11 Pomeroy, OH - Starwood Festival
JUL 13 Pittsburgh, PA - TBA
JUL 14 Columbus, OH - Dirty Dungarees Alt Music Space
JUL 17 Cincinnati, OH - The Comet
JUL 18 Detroit, MI - Corktown Tavern
JUL 19 Akron, OH - Buzzbin
JUL 20 Maple Heights, OH - Maple Grove Tavern
JUL 21 Dayton, OH - Blind Bob’s
JUL 23 St Louis, MO - Crack Fox
JUL 25 Cleveland, OH - Wizbang Theater
JUL 26 Sherman, NY - Sirius Rising Festival
SEPT 6 Pittsburgh, PA - Pitts Art Fest
SEPT 22 York, PA - Enchanted Festival
SEPT 26 Dark Castle Festival, Louisville, KY
OCT 5/6 Attleboro, MA - Jewelry City Festival
OCT 12 Upper Lake, CA - Hexenfest
OCT 25 Shepherdstown, WV - TBA
NOV 16 Baltimore, MD - Fairy Scary Ball
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Princess of J-Pop, Anna Aya, Releases "Hit Me With Your Love"
May 31st, 2024 - International singer, model, actor, and multi-lingual artist Anna Aya is poised to become the first global princess of J-Pop with the highly anticipated release of her second bilingual single, "Hit Me With Your
Love," available now. In addition, The GRAMMYs featured an exclusive performance of the song, produced and directed by Golden Globe winning and Academy & BAFTA nominated Shannon McIntosh, earlier this month. "Anna is redefining what it means to be a multilingual artist in today's global music scene," praised Flaunt Magazine, highlighting her innovative approach to blending languages and cultures in her music.
"Hit Me With Your Love" follows the monumental success of Anna Aya’s debut single, "Someone Else” that reached #2 on Japan’s USEN Chart, #46 on the U.S radio charts and was featured on the Vision Screen Billboard at the famous Shibuya Miyamasuzaka intersection in Tokyo. “Hit Me With Your Love” was co-written by 9-X Diamond, Grammy nominated producer Louis Bell (Post Malone, Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber) and 6-X Japan Gold Disc Winner Michael Africk (Mai Kuraki, Zard, Jordan Knight). Named Nippon Broadcasting System’s “Outstanding Newcomer” and Nickelodeon’s “Artist to Watch,” Anna Aya continues to lead the worldwide J-Pop explosion and cement her position as the first global princess of the genre, seamlessly blending East and West both sonically and lyrically and creating a unique sound of her own.
“Hit Me With Your Love” explores themes of infatuation and empowerment, featuring English and Japanese lyrics and Anna's powerful vocals that shine through every verse and embody the strength of a woman who knows what she’s worth. Anna elaborates “Your actions speak louder than words. You think you're worth my time? You want me in your life? Show me what you’re all about!"
Both “Someone Else” and “Hit Me With Your Love” have been released via Michael Africk’s Handcraft Entertainment and distributed globally by Virgin Music (with the exception of Japan). Prior to the release of "Hit Me With Your Love," Handcraft Entertainment and Tokyo based B ZONE, Inc. announced their strategic partnership along with the signing of Anna Aya. This collaboration resulted in the Japanese release of Anna’s debut single "Someone Else” through B ZONE on February 14th. The song reached #2 on the USEN chart and was #1 on Shazam charts in cities all over Japan. With J-Pop experiencing a surge in popularity, Anna Aya's arrival marks an exciting moment in music history. According to Billboard: “In terms of growth rate, World music — which also includes J-pop, or Japanese pop, and Afrobeats — topped all other genres with a 26.2% increase in U.S. on-demand audio streams.”
"Hit Me With Your Love” Credits
Writers: Louis Bell, Michael Africk, Terrell Mackey, Jahmal White, Anna Aya Adjian Producers: Michael Africk, Mike Hart, Jacob Lee McMillan
Publishers: Universal Music Publishing, Bell Ear. Inc, Fixed on it music, Handcraft Ent. Publishing Mastered by: Chris Gehringer
MORE INFO:
The 20-year-old half- Japanese and half Armenian artist has always gravitated towards modeling since she was a young girl, appearing in print campaigns and commercials for household name brands such as American Girl Doll, AT&T, Children’s Place, Ford, Samsung, Target and more. She concurrently learned how to speak three languages—Japanese, Armenian, and English and has continued to speak them fluently throughout her entire life. As a dancer, studying jazz, hip-hop, and ballet, Anna’s passion for music led to vocal lessons while listening to favorite artists a la Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Madison Beer, and more. In 2022, she caught the attention of Michael Africk, who discovered her through international connections and invited her to collaborate in his studio, eventually signing her to his company Handcraft Entertainment.
Drawing on her Japanese upbringing, she asserts herself as a voice for her culture, remaining reverent of its nuances and traditions and also leveraging them to distinguish her on the international stage as a singular artist. Speaking with iHeartRadio, Anna explains “I have a lot of inspiration from the Japanese sound, which is very soft and has more of an emotional feel to it. I wanted to incorporate that into my music for both English and Japanese, which is why the song is bilingual. I incorporated the fun pop sound from the U.S. and the emotional part of it from Japan. The whole song is about finding your worth and saying that I don’t need anybody to approve me or validate me, I can do it for myself.”
LOST LOVE HAS LEFT COLIN STOUGH “SOBER”
Hot off the announce of new EP Lookin’ For Home, 19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough delivers the official music video for his latest release off the six-track collection, “Sober.”
“This video shows the push and pull of memories after a breakup. Thinking back to the good times, trying to forget the bad as it’s happening, and looking for solace in all the wrong places,” shares Stough.
Directed by David Dutton with DP Alan Fisher, Stough takes a solo ride on his real-life Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail bike in the clip, while being tormented by vivid memories of a love gone wrong. Built around the bitter sting of a breakup, the slow-burner was co-written by Stough with Mason Thornley and Sam Martinez. All about missing someone so bad you can’t even numb the pain – “I could hang out all night / I could drink this bottle dry / Trying to get me gone and I ain't getting any closer / Without your love I’m sober” – a woozy mix from producer Martinez creates a tone that stands on the edgy fringe of Stough’s peers. Pairing down-tuned acoustic twang and a lonesome slide guitar, the song’s building blocks make for a weary ballad of emotional desperation. But when Stough’s powerful, bluesy vocal ruptures into the chorus, the true toll of finding no relief takes center stage.
Featured as a writer on every track, fans can now pre-save/pre-add Lookin’ For Home (out July 12) and get a preview of the project with “Sober” Below. Next taking this new music on the road, Stough’s stacking music festival dates like CMA Fest 2024 on June 8 on the Hard Rock Stage in Nashville, TN. Doubling up, the Season 21 finalist on American Idol will also join a program at Fan Fair X inside Music City Center on the CMA Close Up Stage for “Idol Hour with Chayce Beckham, HunterGirl, Colin Stough and ‘American Idol’ Season 22 Runner Ups Jack Blocker and Will Moseley.” Earlier in the week, Stough is tapped for a FREE performance during the 19 Takeover at 6th & Peabody on June 6. Follow along for updates on his jam-packed week of appearances during CMA Fest 2024 here.
ABOUT COLIN STOUGH:
While Country Rock phenom and Gattman, Mississippi, native Colin Stough is only knocking on the door to his twenties, he has traversed a long journey in a few short years – starting with his debut EP Promiseland and follow-up EP Lookin’ For Home (expected July 12). After learning to play guitar at 8 years old, Stough first pursued his 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 2023. 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 Nashville, his distinctive mix of Southern Rock distortion and pure-Country style has helped Stough’s music rack up more than 19.8 MILLION global on-demand streams. Stough has headlined across the country and opened for established artists like Chase Matthew, Kidd G, and Drake White.
PHOTO CREDIT: RYAN “SPIDEY” SMITH
EP ARTWORK: MICHAEL SAVOIE