Dark Chapel announces debut album ‘Spirit In The Glass’

Guitarist/singer/producer Dario Lorina, best-known as a longtime member of Black Label Society (2014 to present), is launching his brand new band, DARK CHAPEL.

Led by Lorina and also featuring Brody DeRozie (Guitar), Mike Gunn (Bass), and Luis Silva (Drums), the band’s airtight guitar-craft and sludgy grooves with magnetic melodies, bluesy phrasing, and grunge mystique are spotlighted on their debut album, Spirit in The Glass, which is due out February 28, 2025 on MNRK Heavy. 

Dario’s gritty delivery on the song takes hold on a hypnotic hook, bleeding into a fret-burning lead punctuated by dramatic bends. “’Glass Heart’ is a lyrical and almost cinematic musical story that started with a riff and lyrically stemmed from emotion,” he reveals. “That emotion created an imagery for me that I began writing about as if that feeling was a painting I was writing to describe.”

Striking an elusive balance between dark and heavy, ethereal and passionate, Spirit in The Glass  is as Lorina describes, ““This is a culmination of all artistic influence, whether musical or otherwise.” 

SEE ALL DARK CHAPEL MUSIC + MERCH HERE

Dario Lorina began his professional career in 2006 when he was 16 as the touring guitarist with the late Jani Lane (ex-Warrant). At 19, he joined veteran metal act Lizzy Borden whom he toured with for four years. He released two instrumental records with Mike Varney on Shrapnel Records in 2013 and 2017 titled, DARIO LORINA and DEATH GRIP TRIBULATIONS. On January 1, 2014 he joined Black Label Society and has since been touring worldwide alongside Zakk Wylde, performing on guitar, piano and backing vocals ever since. Lorina dueled solos with Wylde on Black Label Society's 2022 album DOOM CREW INC., and he joined Zakk Wylde on the January 2022 cover of Guitar World magazine.

 

“The guitar never really left my hands,” he laughs. Years of woodshedding followed. At 16 years old, he answered the call to audition for Jani Lane and found himself on the road with the ex-Warrant frontman shortly thereafter.

FIND OUT MORE HERE

Legendary Rockers BLUE ÖYSTER CULT Share Live Performance Video for "The Alchemist"

Riding the triumphant success of their 50th Anniversary celebration, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT is rolling into the release of '50th Anniversary Live – Third Night,' the final installment of the live album celebrating the band’s 50th Anniversary.

This electrifying performance, which includes the band’s third album 'Secret Treaties' performed back-to-back, is set to hit the shelves on December 13, 2024 and promises to be a spectacular follow-up to the band's historic three-night stint at Sony Hall in NYC.

Today, in anticipation of the album's release, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT share a new live performance video for "The Alchemist".

Watch the Live Performance Video for "The Alchemist" Below

In September of 2022, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT enthralled fans with a unique trilogy of sold-out shows, each dedicated to one of their first three albums. Founding member Albert Bouchardmade a special appearance on all three nights, adding a nostalgic touch to the historic milestone.

For nearly three hours each night, the band delivered a spellbinding set, weaving through the entirety of their now-classic initial trilogy of albums and treating fans to a mix of favorites, deep cuts, and classic hits. The atmosphere was electric, and Frontiers Music captured the magic, releasing each night as a special individual package.

BLUE ÖYSTER CULT's legacy spans over five decades, captivating fans with intelligent hard rock loaded with classic songs. Hailing from Long Island, NY, the band is renowned in the hard rock and heavy metal scene for their pioneering work, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Cited as a major influence by acts like Metallica, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT boasts a timeless catalog, including iconic tracks like "(Don’t Fear) The Reaper," "Godzilla," and "Burnin’ for You." The creative vision of the original core duo, Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser and Eric Bloom, is complemented by Richie Castellano, Danny Miranda, and Jules Radino, forming a powerhouse lineup.

As the band embraces its status as a 'classic rock' phenomenon, they continue to create vibrant work, offering a refreshing alternative to mainstream trends. With a relentless touring schedule and the critically acclaimed album 'THE SYMBOL REMAINS' released in 2020, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT remains an enduring force, ready to ignite the stage once

again with the upcoming release of '50th Anniversary Live – Third Night' on Frontiers Music Srl.

Pre-Order '50th Anniversary Live - Third Night' HERE

These live releases follow ‘Ghost Stories’ - a captivating collection of reimagined and completed songs from 1978 to 2016. These musical treasures, long considered the 'lost gems' by BLUE ÖYSTER CULT enthusiasts, were originally recorded between 1978 and 1983, except for one track from 2016, "If I Fell." Some material is from workshopping albums, some from performance rehearsals, and all were recorded once in the hopes that someday they'd see the light of day.

 

George Geranios, the band's original audio engineer and an integral part of the band's golden years produced the tracks along with BÖC and all were originally recorded on reel-to-reel analog tape. He transferred them to digital audio which is when modern AI and magical musical talents meet and the collection of vintage multi-track recordings was de-mixed, re-mixed, and produced by Steve Schenck and Richie Castellano to become 'Ghost Stories.' 

Richie Castellano completed work in the studio for the album along with remaining original members Eric Bloom and Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser and both Albert Bouchard and Rick Downey appear on drums with additional overdubs recorded by Joe Bouchard. All these original lineup members appearing on 'Ghost Stories,' create a musical journey that traverses decades and promises easter eggs for days.

 

'Ghost Stories' celebrates the recording legacy of one of rock’s most iconic fixtures from the past 50 years.

Order 'Ghost Stories' HERE

The Great Old Ones Draw Us "In The Mouth of Madness"

Though they emerged from France more than a decade ago, The Great Old Ones transcend mere earthly realms. On their upcoming fifth album the post-black metal band weave more bone-chilling tales from the lore of H.P. Lovecraft. The new single from Kadath delves deeper into the cryptic dream quest of Lovecraftian hero Randolph Carter, drawing us in with the forbidden whispers of the ancient gods.   

Watch the fantastic animated video for "In the Mouth of Madness" below.

Kadath is out January 24th, 2025 on Season of Mist.

Pre-save & Pre-order


https://orcd.co/tgookadath

"In the Mouth of Madness" swallows Randolph Carter into an abyss. Amidst this descent into darkness, he glimpses the stoned visage of the Gods on Mount Ngranek, only to be caught in the relentless grasp of the nightgaunts.

The video for "In the Mouth of Madness" was directed by Sébastien Ravizé. It was illustrated by Jakub Rebelka and scripted by Romauld Giulivo. The imagery was inspired by Death of a Gentleman: The Last Days of Howard Phillips Lovecraft".

Recorded under the vigilant eye of Francis Caste at Studio Sainte-Marthe, Paris, Kadath's production is nothing short of sorcerous. Each note and whispers are imbued with the power to transport the listener, offering an escape into an epic, immersive universe. Benjamin Guerry’s haunting vocals and guitars, alongside the mesmerizing contributions of Aurélien Edouard and Alexandre Rouleau on guitars, the deep resonance of Gregory Vouillat's bass, and the relentless assault of Julian Deana's drums, forge an album of unmatched emotional depth and technical prowess.

 

Thus, behold the latest chapter in their eldritch saga, Kadath - their unyielding quest to explore the outer margins of reality and imagination. An invitation to journey beyond the familiar, into a world of cosmic dread and awe-inspiring beauty, where the ancient gods still roam and dreams bleed into reality.


Line-up:
Benjamin Guerry - Guitars, Vocals
Aurélien Edouard - Guitars
Hugo Bernart - Guitars
Gregory Vouillat - Bass
Julian Deana - Drums

Recording Studio:
Recorded at Studio Sainte-Marthe, Paris, France

Production Credits:
Produced, Mixed & Mastered by Francis Caste at Studio Sainte-Marthe, Paris, France

Biography:
The Great Old Oneswith additions by Sébastien Gamez

Cover Art:
Jakub Rebelka

Photographer:
Daphnea Doto & Solweig Wood

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

Follow The Great Old Ones:
Website:https://www.thegreatoldonesband.com/
Bandcamp:https://thegreatoldones.bandcamp.com/
Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/thegreatoldones
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thegreatoldonesofficial/
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/thegreatoldonesband
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/1U6VZQrgQ4CNXbS6FpP0QC
Deezer:https://www.deezer.com/en/artist/4377965
Apple Music:https://music.apple.com/artist/the-great-old-ones/596465875 
TIDAL:https://tidal.com/browse/artist/5475055

Booking Contact:
GARMONBOZIA INC. - Rennes, France
http://www.garmonbozia-inc.com/

Fred Chouesne -fred@garmonbozia-inc.com

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
CD Clamshell Box - Limited Edition w/ Exclusive Items
2x12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Transparent
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Transparent w/ Black Marbled
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Gold w/ Black Splatter
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Transparent Red w/ Black Marbled

Swedish Heavy Metal Force AMBUSH Signs with Napalm Records!

Swedish heavy metal squadron AMBUSH is thrilled to announce its signing to Napalm Records, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their relentless quest for fast, traditional metal domination. Known for their high-octane, riff-driven anthems and explosive stage presence, AMBUSH is ready to rise to even greater heights.

Formed in 2013, AMBUSH quickly became a staple of the Swedish metal scene, delivering classic heavy metal vibes with a modern twist. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Judas Priest, Accept, and Iron Maiden, AMBUSH’s unique blend of traditional metal and fierce energy has earned them a dedicated fanbase around the globe. Their passion for the genre is undeniable, and with Napalm Records as their partner, they are primed to take the world by storm.

Stay tuned as AMBUSH prepares to unleash their next chapter with new music and a series of live shows that will leave crowds screaming for more.

AMBUSH state about signing with Napalm Records:

"We are very excited to announce that we just signed a record deal with Napalm Records! This is a big step in the right direction for AMBUSH, and we want to salute everyone at Napalm for the trust in us and in our upcoming album. We are so proud of what we created and can’t wait to bring it out to you guys in 2025. Lots of heavy love to everyone out there, AMBUSH is here for you! "

Senior A&R Sebastian Münch says about AMBUSH:

AMBUSH's three previous album releases have all been absolutely brilliant. The band is currently working on new song material and everything I've heard so far will top the old releases. The goal of our collaboration is to bring AMBUSH to the forefront of heavy metal. Welcome to the Napalm family!“

📸: Philip Truong/Bläcksquid Inc

AMBUSH are:

Oskar Jacobsson - vocals

Karl Dotzek - guitar

Olof Engqvist - guitar

Oskar Andersson - bass

Linus Fritzson - drums

UK Metal Legends RAGING SPEEDHORN Unveil New Video for "Night Wolf"

UK metal legends RAGING SPEEDHORN have released a video for their new single "Night Wolf", their debut release on their new label Spinefarm Records.

RAGING SPEEDHORN comments on the video:

"Shot in just over a day, the 'Night Wolf' video was inspired by our love of 80s movies and plays on a line taken from the single, "the animal inside is you". With tongue firmly in-cheek, it shows the transition from day into night and human turning into wild animal."

Watch the Video for "Night Wolf" Below.

A major presence within the UK metal scene for the past two decades, with half a dozen crushing studio outings to their name (and what a name!), RAGING SPEEDHORN have forged their reputation through hard touring, hard music, plus a no-compromise attitude… to everything.

RAGING SPEEDHORN's new single, "Night Wolf", the band’s first for Spinefarm, produced by Russ Russell, sees the six musicians – as much gang as band – delivering one of the most memorable moments of their career, with all valves glowing, all faders up and all needles flicking red.

 

RAGING SPEEDHORN comments on the single:

We’re super excited to release our new single ‘Night Wolf’, produced by our brother Russ Russell at Parlour Studios. It’s got everything you need in a classic RAGING SPEEDHORN song: big riffs, thundering drums and great vocals. To us, it’s a mixture of Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath with a unique SPEEDHORN sound. 

“We’ve been inspired by one of our favourite 80s movies, and we hope our fans will enjoy the retro vibe in our artwork.”

Stream "Night Wolf" HERE

RAGING SPEEDHORN are:

Frank Regan – vocals

Daniel Cook – vocals

James Palmer – guitar

Daf Williams – guitar

Andy Gilmour – bass

Gordon Morison – drums

UK Black Metal Standouts THE INFERNAL SEA Release Deluxe, Reimagined Version of 'Hellfenlic'

As UK black metal luminaries THE INFERNAL SEA launch their European tour in France tonight, the band have also unleashed the deluxe edition of their acclaimed 2024 album 'Hellfenlic'Titled 'Hellfenlic Deluxe (Reincarnated Evil)', this expanded version is now available through Candlelight, offering fans a deeper dive into the band’s unrelenting darkness.

Originally released in January, this enhanced version takes each track to new, reinterpreted heights, offering fresh arrangements that reimagine the original compositions. With every song reworked, 'Hellfenlic' in its deluxe form challenges listeners to approach the album from a completely different perspective, inviting them to rediscover its dark intricacies in a whole new light.

To celebrate the release of 'Hellfenlic Deluxe (Reincarnated Evil)', THE INFERNAL SEAhave also released a brand new visualizer for "Black Witchery (Curse of The Coven Remix by Nekravol".

Watch the Visualizer for "Black Witchery"

(Curse of The Coven Remix by Nekravol) Below.

THE INFERNAL SEA draw from a vast musical palette, influenced by a wide array of genres, including electronic and industrial. Having come of age in the 90s, they were immersed in a time when metal bands were boldly crossing genre lines, experimenting with new sounds and styles. Acts like Fear Factory and White Zombie were at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of their art and creating genre-defying remix albums that shattered conventions and expanded the possibilities of what metal could be.

THE INFERNAL SEA comments on the deluxe album:

"Our goal was to imagine how these songs might have sounded if someone else had shaped them – to explore the possibilities of an alternate vision. These reimagined tracks aren’t meant to replace the originals; far from it. Instead, they’re designed to challenge listeners, encouraging them to approach 'Hellfenlic' from fresh perspectives and discover new layers within the music.

"It's been highly satisfying if not mind-bending to hear other people's takes on these tracks, in a genre where you almost never see this happen. There is a wide range of sounds, influences and flavours on offer here all while staying true to the intent of the original songs, infernal gratitude to all who gave their most precious time to this unusual project."

Stream 'Hellfenlic Deluxe (Reincarnated Evil)' HERE

THE INFERNAL SEA have been a plague on this Earth since 2011, composing fierce and terrifying black metal from the Fenlands of England, conjuring compelling tales of English & European history throughout the Medieval period.

Over several releases, THE INFERNAL SEA have solidified their reputation as black metal wraiths—enigmatic and elusive, their true identities obscured by plague doctor-inspired masks and shadowy shrouds. In January 2024, they released 'Hellfenlic', a ferocious new album whose title, derived from Old English, translates to "a Fen of Hell." The record delivered eight tracks of seething, raw black 'n' roll fury, continuing the band's unrelenting assault on the senses. 'Hellfenlic' follows their trio of studio albums — 'Negotium Crucis' (2020), 'The Great Mortality' (2016), and 'Call of the Augur' (2012), further cementing their place as one of the genre's most powerful and uncompromising forces.

THE INFERNAL SEA have continued to elevate their live performances with a terrifying and captivating ritualistic stage show, enthralling audiences wherever they may roam. This has included performances at key UK festivals such as Bloodstock Festival, Incineration Festival, Damnation Festival, A Night of Salvation, Reaper Fest, Cosmic Void as well as a whole host of key support slots to bands such as Anaal Nathrakh, 1349, Taake, Napalm Death, Akercocke, Nargaroth, Primordial, Hellripper, Tsjuder, Mork, Rotting Christ, Hulder, Strigoi, Abigail Williams, Arch Enemy and many more. 

Continuing to captivate audiences with their electrifying, raw live performances, THE INFERNAL SEA kick off their European headline tour in France today.

Freemoor Shares Soulful Rock Song "Affliction"

Las Vegas based Rock artist Freemoor is sharing his soulful new song “Affliction”.  The track was produced by noted session guitarist and producer Adrian Andres (Cirque Du Soleil, Maeve) at Mouse Trap Studios in Toronto, Canada.  Freemoor will be debuting the song live in Los Angeles at the Viper Room on Tuesday, 11/19.

 

Affliction” is an homage to the unfortunate demise of creative people who have succumbed to their demons, and left this world at a young age and far to soon. It combines a powerful, soulful vibe with an edgy rock sound – it’s a mix of Bad Company meets Lenny Kravitz, with a dose of Gary Clark Jr.   The song has an earworm, driving rhythm with bombastic guitars throughout, buoyed by bluesy, intensely soulful vocals.   

 

Freemoor says “There are so many legendary stories regarding the unfortunate demise of many divinely talented             people who have graced this earth – only to succumb to their demons and leave far too soon. “Affliction” is a tribute             to these unique individuals – but also acknowledges everyday people who deal with and suffer from various maladies of the mind and soul.  From Amy Winehouse to Marilyn Monroe, to more recently Liam Payne - many true and untrue stories are told about these people. They are blamed for things they were not wholly their fault and not recognized for their disease and are unjustly maligned”.

About Freemoor:

Freemoor is an Las Vegas based Indie Rock artist who has an eclectic, soulful vibe. The talented bassist and drummer has influences ranging from Prince to Queen, Lenny Kravitz and Seal, to David Bowie and Chris Cornell. His music is a nod to the past while being thoroughly modern. He leads you through a thoughtful journey and fills you with three minutes of various emotions while giving the listener an electric charge.  His tag line is “Free to do moor” - he encourages people to be their best authentic selves. Follow your own path and be comfortable with yourself, no matter who you are.  That message shines through in his music.

 

Freemoor has previously released several singles, including “Shine” (2024); Jump N (2020); Confess (2019); Alive (2019) and a cover of the classic Cream Song “Sunshine Of Your Love”.  He is in the process of finishing up his debut album, which is slated to be released in the spring of 2025.  Tour dates are being booked to coincide with the album release.

 

Live Shows:

Tuesday, 11/19 – The Viper Room – West Hollywood, CA

 

Connect and Share with Freemoor:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freemoorl

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freemoor.land

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freemoor0

X: https://x.com/freemoorland

BEYOND THE GATES 2025 Reveals First Wave of Bands; KING DIAMOND, ABBATH DOOM OCCULTA, TRIPTYKON (CELTIC FROST set) + more!

Beyond the Gates Festival 2025 is now revealing the first wave of bands for what is already shaping up to be an epic lineup! The four-day extravaganza will once again take place in Bergen (NO) from July 30 - August 2, across several venues, including USF and the iconic Grieghallen, where many of Norway's seminal black metal artists recorded their legacy records.

The current lineup is now as follows:

King Diamond (First Norwegian show in 19 years!)

Abbath Doom Occulta (Immortal set)

Triptykon (performing Celtic Frost)

I Am Morbid

Destruction ('Infernal Overkil'l 40 years)

Hellbutcher

Hellripper

Dark Sonority

+ more TBA!

Tickets are now available HERE.

For the first time in 19 years, King Diamond will return to Norway with his fantastic horror infused heavy metal spectacle.

Festival booker Torgrim Øyre comments, "For those of you who saw Mercyful Fate in Grieghallen a few years back will know that this will be the ultimate way to experience King Diamond and his amazing show. We’ve been hard at work to get King Diamond to Norway for quite some time and what a treat it is to finally be able to announce this gem.

"King Diamond will be joined by the mighty Abbath Doom Occulta who will bring his incredible ‘Return to the Raven Realms Tour’ to Bergen for the first time. The epic show includes a set consisting wide array of Immortal classics from his tenure in the band. 

"Going even further back in the history books. Triptykon will perform a full set of Celtic Frost classics, while German thrash pioneers, Destruction, will celebrate the 40th anniversary of their magnum opus, ‘Infernal Overkill.'

"If that’s not education enough, David Vincent and Pete Sandoval will bring you the finest death metal available when I Am Morbid is diving into the Morbid Angel catalogue. 

"Former Nifelheim singer Hellbutcher has delivered one of the best albums this year, who hasn’t twisted some neck muscles after hearing ‘The Sword of Wrath.’ Next year you can experience this masterpiece live on stage.

"Scotland-based Hellripper has taken the thrash world by storm over the last few years. This force of nature has quickly become one of the hottest underground acts around. If you’ve attended one of their concerts you will understand why. 

"Last but not least, Dark Sonority, formerly known as Kaosritual. This ensemble is well known throughout the underground as the epitome of Sorcerous Black Metal, alongside other Nidrosian Black Metal bands such as Mare and Celestial Bloodshed with whom they share members. This will be one of their very few concerts next year.

"The 2025 edition of Beyond the Gates is the 13th chapter in the festival saga and will showcase why the festival has grown into the international metal gathering it has become. Attracting visitors from 50 different countries around the world, Beyond the Gates has become a global phenomenon.

"The festival is taking place in the city center of Bergen, using several venues spread across town, including the legendary Grieghallen and USF Verftet.

"Welcome to 4 days of darkness in the heart of Bergen."

Since the inception of the Beyond the Gates festival, fans have been coming to Bergen to see performances of their favorite Norwegian artists in their home environment. As most visitors know, nature and local culture has always been a poignant source of inspiration for the bands emerging from the Bergen scene. Yet again, Beyond the Gates will give all of the traveling fans the opportunity to get an unique insight into all aspects of the Norwegian Metal scene and the local culture in general. In that regard, we’re putting together a series of events before and during the festival so that all of you can discover what inspired – and still does - the Norwegian metal scene.

More special events will be announced, including exclusive listening parties, music and culture panels, in-depth live interviews, and a wealth of of events and activities that will give you a Beyond the Gates Experience that will last for a lifetime. Stay tuned for more...

Links:

Official Beyond the Gates Website

Facebook

Instagram

Tickets

Iodine Recordings to Reissue Six Going on Seven's Classic "Heartbreak's Got Backbeat"

Heartbreak's Got Backbeat is the sophomore album from Boston-based indie rock/emo band Six Going On Seven. It's long been out of print — for 25 years.

Until now, courtesy of your friends at Iodine Recordings, the label which continues to re-introduce beloved and hard-to-find titles on vinyl to a diehards as well as a new generation of fans. The label remains a caretaker of fan favorites from the early '00s, and before and after.

The album is now available digitally, while the physical release of Heartbreak's Got Backbeat arrives on February 5 of next year. Get it here

Often referred to as a "band's band," Six Going on Seven came up alongside many of the household names that set the tone for the era: Jimmy Eat World, Hot Water Music, and The Get Up Kids.

6GO7 sharied the stage with the aforementioned band and many others. Originally released on Some Records in 1999 and produced by Brian McTernan at Salad Days Studio (Hot Water Music, Cave In), the album is being presented on a limited-edition vinyl pressing with all new artwork and remastered by Jack Shirley (Quicksand, Joyce Manor) at The Atomic Garden.

"'Let's take the long way 'round, turn right here. Go down this hill we can leave the car at Cathedral Park Pier...,'" so begins the first track of our second record. This, an homage to roots in St. Johns (Portland, OR) and more specifically, my childhood home, first love and the push/pull of moving on and paying tribute to the things that shape us," says vocalist/bassist Joshua English. "It's a perfect representation of what we were/are/will be as a trio, 3:05 of bass/drums/guitar and nostalgia..."

SIX GOING ON SEVEN WERE:
Joshua English — Vocals + Bass
James Bransford — Guitar
Will Bartlett — Drums

SODOM RELEASE LONG AWAITED, EXPANDED REISSUE EDITIONS OF THEIR 1992 CULT ALBUM ‘TAPPING THE VEIN’

Sodom’s cult 1992 album Tapping The Vein covered a wide range of lyrical topics amongst its eleven songs and opening track ‘Body Parts’ deals with the horrors of the organ trade. The lyric writing duties on the album were, for the first time shared out between all three members; Tom Angelripper, Andy Brings and Chris Witchhunter. It was Chris along with a friend of his called Bertrum, who contributed the lyrics to ‘Body Parts’. It was also one of the songs where producer, Harris Johns suggested Tom lowered his voice, which worked perfectly with the bands standard tuning, while still retaining a menacing character.

The new expanded editions of Sodom’s, Tapping The Vein feature the original album remastered, it also features a complete remixed version done by Andy Brings with some additional alternative takes of three album tracks, plus three live concerts: Tokyo 1992, Düsseldorf 1992 and Cologne 1992 (Chris Witchhunter´s last show with Sodom) in the super deluxe edition.

Sodom’s deluxe, expanded reissue of Tapping The Vein is available in these formats.

       Deluxe triple LP red & black swirl vinyl and double CD deluxe 24 page bookpack.

       Double, gatefold transparent red vinyl.
       Triple CD digisleeve with 24 page booklet

ORDERS & EXCLUSIVE MERCH AVAILABLE HERE https://sodomband.lnk.to/TTVPR

Randall King Releases “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”

Warner Music Nashville recording artist Randall King lends his signature baritones to a new rendition of the holiday classic, “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” available now.
 
“A little western Swing for Christmas this year? Try that on for size,” King shares with a grin.
 
“I’ll Be Home For Christmas” arrives as the Texan’s final release of 2024, as he prepares to conclude a year that marked both professional and personal highs – beginning with the launch of his sophomore album Into The Neon in January and capped by his recent engagement to his long-time girlfriend, Brittany Warthan.
 
Into The Neon arrived on January 26 to critical acclaim from Grammy.comBillboard and more, leaving Texas Monthly stating “his Texas bona fides are unimpeachable” and Holler lauding King as “the genre's neo-traditional figurehead.” The album yielded King’s debut single, “I Could Be That Rain,” which arrived as the most-added single at country radio, with 59 total adds to-date.
 
King stayed true to his road warrior reputation this year, headlining over 130 shows across the country, in addition to his 10-show Into The Neon - International Tour which included six sold-out shows in Copenhagen, Denmark; Amsterdam, Netherlands and more. 
 
He’ll wind down the year with appearances at National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas, including his annual Tonk Vegas show at Stoney’s Rockin’ Country on Dec. 8 with special guests Drake Milligan, Kylie Frey, Jenna Paulette, Brittany Warthan, Wynn Williams, Clay Hollis and Tyler Halverson. For his remaining tour dates and more, visit RandallKingMusic.com.

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 nearly 400 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, available now, takes that craft to the next level, 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. Into The Neon was named among the best country albums of the year (so far) by Whiskey RiffCountry Now & Entertainment Focus, and yielded King’s debut single, “I Could Be That Rain,” available now at country radio.

Singer/Songwriter Katie Kadan Releases New Holiday Track "Hey, Mr. Santa"

With one of the boldest, brashest, turn-your-day-around vocals in music, singer/ songwriter Katie Kadan is back with another original track for the holiday season. The cheeky “Hey, Mr. Santa” is available today and follows the Windy City, soul-singer's recent release, “Unless I Fall In Love” which gave fans another taste of her debut EP to be released next year. Listen to “Hey Mr. Santa” HERE, “Unless I Fall In Love” HERE and watch the official video for “Unless I Fall In Love” below
 
“Instead of your typical Christmas song about decorating trees, cozying up with a loved one or listening for sleigh bells, we wanted to write a Christmas song with the cheeky fun my fans know and love,” shared Kadan. “This song is for all of my single folks out there. I hope you find a Santa to get wrapped up with this holiday season.”
 
Written by Kadan with Johnny Reid who also serves as producer, the song finds the powerhouse chanteuse, with her rich swagger and stadium-sized vocal, playfully asking the “man with the bag” if he’d be her Santa tonight.

Kadan’s second original holiday release in as many years follows her new song, the sultry “Unless I Fall In Love” released last month. On the track she finds the self-worth we all need … waiting within. “Sometimes life can be like ‘If I'm not this certain way, do I have value? Am I ever going to have purpose?’” she says. “Am I ever going to be worthy of love, or will I keep falling short?’”
 
Pulling big emotions from simple, self-penned songs and delivering them with a blowtorch of a vocal, Kadan has finally answered those questions for herself. It’s up to each of us to do the same, but a little inspiration never hurts.
 
A classically-inspired soul diva for a brand-new age, sharing her growth toward self-respect through the empowering joy of music has become Kadan’s calling – her sense of purpose. A born entertainer and the youngest of four in a church-centered, deeply-musical family, it took Kadan her whole life to find her purpose. But now that she has, it seems almost inevitable. 
 
Praising her “big, loud family,” the vocal phenom learned to harmonize as soon as she could talk and delivered her first performance in front of her church congregation at 3 years old. Homeschooled by a songwriting mother who loved the ‘60s folk revival, and with a father whose taste kept Otis Redding, James Brown and the giants of soul on repeat, music was embedded in Kadan’s daily life – so deep that when she couldn’t concentrate on her studies, the fix was to play some piano and quiet her mind. 
 
Obviously talented, her parents helped a teenaged Kadan join one of Chicago’s top choirs, and they even scraped enough money together to send her to conservatory. But feeling like she had no shot at a career, she dropped out, taking odd jobs and teaching vocal lessons instead. “I was unhappy,” she admits now. “That's not what I wanted to do, but I had no idea how to get into the music business. And honestly, I didn't think I would have a place … because I'm a fat lady.”
 
Needing some joy in her life, Kadan knew where to turn. She found her way to the female owned and operated Underground Wonder Bar and got herself a life-changing gig. Thrilling local crowds with her dynamic voice – an explosive, all-natural mix of raspy soul and gospel power – she made a point to go her own way, performing original songs right from her first night … and people took notice. A producer from NBC’s The Voice soon got in touch, but still feeling unworthy, Kadan turned them down.
 
“I didn't want to do it. I thought, it's kind of a sellout,” she says with a laugh. “I was going to go back to school actually, because I was tired of the hustle. I was going to go for psychology, and I'm like, ‘Music to me is the healer. And if I can't be a singer, I’ve got to help people in a different way.’”
 
Eventually, though, Kadan changed her mind. Determined to give herself just one chance – and feeling like she had nothing to lose – she showed up for The Voice and stood out immediately, taking third place on Season 17 in 2019. Impressing judges and fans alike with her big style, big voice, and ability to leave her heart on the stage each night, Kadan’s joyful personality and clear comfort in her own skin tore through countless stereotypes. She became an inspiration to millions. 
 
“Hey, Mr. Santa” and “Unless I Fall In Love” follow her summer release, “Without You,” the first taste of what fans can expect from Kadan’s debut EP set for release next year. For more information and to stay updated on the latest news and tour dates, visit katiekadan.com and follow along on Instagram @KatieKadanOfficial and @KatieKadan on FacebookTwitter and TikTok

Christian Hayes Underscores the Beauty of Imperfection w/ “Wildflower,” Available Now

Capitol Records recording artist Christian Hayes has poetically drawn on his life experiences growing up in the foothills of Appalachia since his grandfather gifted him his first journal at seven years old. While his debut EP Last I Love Youreleased in September, followed Hayes’ journey navigating heartbreak and growing up, he’s now offering an upbeat new song underscoring the beauty of finding love in imperfection with “Wildflower,” available now.
 
Self-written by Hayes, the concept for “Wildflower” was born from Hayes’ observation of seeing beauty found in imperfections and embracing uniqueness in love. Recalling how wildflowers are each unique and grow to their own accord, Hayes drew from this inspiration to celebrate the qualities that make them distinctly beautiful.
 
“I had family members who I watched struggle a lot with discontent growing up, always striving to find that perfect spouse, rather than being happy with the one they were with,” Hayes reflects. “This song was inspired by that inner conflict, but rather than always striving for perfection where it doesn’t exist, the ‘wildflower’ serves as a metaphor to finding a person who’s right for you, while embracing the beauty in their imperfections.”
 
The song comes on the heels of the September release of Last I Love You, which casts a wide net, fusing Americana and folk while bouncing between campfire ballads, cinematic soundscapes and raw, rowdy barn-burners. At the center of that sound is Hayes himself: a wise-beyond-his-years musician who knows he can't move forward without taking a look at his past. 
 
Genuine and articulate, Hayes comes from a long line of storytellers that includes his Grandpa Jack – a poet by profession – who gave Christian his first journal. Born and raised in the foothills of Appalachia, Hayes began playing guitar at age eight. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserve and attended the University of Alabama.
 
Hayes recently signed with Capitol Records, as well as with William Morris Endeavor (WME) for booking, Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) for publishing, Wildrose Projects for management and Flood Bumstead McCready & McCarthy (FBMM) for business management. 

About Christian Hayes:
Raised in the Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, Christian Hayes grew up surrounded by southern storytelling. His grandfather — a poet by profession — encouraged him to begin writing in a journal at 7 years old, sparking a habit that would eventually take Hayes to Nashville. A veteran of the US Navy Reserve, Hayes began applying the discipline of his military training to his work as a songwriter, amassing more than 900 original songs by his mid-twenties. Five of those songs appear on Last I Love You, his debut for Capitol Records available now. Produced by Lukas Bracewell and steeped in Hayes' unique version of American roots music, Last I Love You features the viral single "LILY" (which racked up more than 3 million streams before the EP's official release), the anthemic "Black Gold," and a mix of effortless melodies, cinematic folk and rowdy, barn-burning Americana.

Follow Christian Hayes:
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HEYOON Teams Up with Armani White for Debut Solo Track “Pivot”

International pop sensation, HEYOON, has officially debuted her single “Pivot” featuring American rapper and songwriter Armani White. This release marks HEYOON’s first project under Universal Music Global and is an explosive entry into her solo career. “Pivot”

explores the complexities of a relationship laced with deep love but overshadowed by toxicity. Reflecting on the theme, HEYOON shares, “Pivot is about putting that red light on someone when you know the relationship has become toxic. It’s the push and pull of knowing your worth and the fear of leaving something you’ve invested in. It’s that journey of turning away from toxicity and stepping back into self-love.”

Adding to the song’s impact is Armani White, whose hit single “Billie Eilish” soared to #58 on the Billboard Hot 100 and ignited collaborations with Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, and N.O.R.E. White’s dynamic energy complements HEYOON’s powerful vocals, and the collaboration blends the best of Korean and American pop music to create a unique, internationally appealing sound. "Working with HEYOON on this track brought a new energy—I got the opportunity to take a more mellow approach. Our vibes clicked in person and on record, so it was easy!" he shares.

The music video for “Pivot” is equally captivating, crafted in collaboration with an innovative, female-led creative team – a long-standing goal for HEYOON. With scenes conceptualized through HEYOON’s practice of lucid dreaming, the visuals deliver a surreal, dreamlike experience. “In my dreams, I could play the song and visualize the main scenes,” she recalls. “It was creatively fulfilling to work with such a talented director who took those dream elements and grounded them into captivating visuals, like the character being pulled into a giant, whirlwind bed.” Featuring extensive dance sequences, acting, and a little bit of jujitsu, the video is set to amaze fans with its boundary-pushing storytelling. The project further underscores HEYOON’s deep dedication to creative innovation. “It’s so exciting to bring visuals that can convey the same emotion I feel in my head. This video is sexy, moody, and incredibly cinematic,” she shares.

Raised in South Korea and now based between Seoul and Los Angeles, HEYOON’s transition to solo artistry comes as a natural progression after five years with global pop group Now United, where she earned a reputation for sold-out stadium tours across 30+ countries and released over 100 singles and music videos. In addition to her music career, HEYOON is deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting the Art of Elysium and aspiring to establish a foundation for children worldwide. Her influence extends into the fashion world as well, with appearances at Paris Fashion Week, where her style and charisma caught the attention of Nylon, The Hollywood Reporter, and PAPER Magazine.

“Pivot isn’t just a single,” HEYOON says. “It’s a statement about embracing my own path and inviting fans to do the same. I’m thrilled to be stepping into this new phase with Universal Music Korea, and I can’t wait for fans to experience everything we’ve created together.”

HEYOON ON SOCALS:

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Eli Young Band Tribute the Ecstasy of True Love with "I'm Yours Amen"

On the heels of multiple sold out shows earlier this summer, including an at-capacity performance at Washington, D.C.’s The Bullpen, multi-Platinum country hitmakers Eli Young Band release their new track “I’m Yours Amen” today, November 15, giving commitment a swaying soundtrack. Listen to “I’m Yours Amen” Below.
 
Co-written by lead singer Mike Eli with Jeffrey East, the romantically charged anthem stands as a warm-and-fuzzy tribute to the ecstasy of true love. Featuring a sunset melody and uplifting roots rock sound – led as always by Eli’s distinctive vocal – the track has emerged as a feel-good Country singalong, built on the simple joy of knowing exactly where you’re meant to be.
 
“When I got the idea for this song I was napping on the couch with my head on my wife’s lap, and she was binging Grey’s Anatomy,” Eli explains. “I remember thinking ‘This is the life!’ – and from that ‘I’m Yours Amen’ was born.
 
“We wanted to write a song that said everything without saying too much,” he goes on. “I remember me and Kacey’s wedding day like it was yesterday, so it’s incredible to capture that feeling in a song nearly 15 years later.”
 
The release of “I’m Yours Amen” follows the comforting “Home in Hometown” (dropped earlier in 2024), as the never-changing EYB lineup of Mike Eli, James Young, Jon Jones, and Chris Thompson mark the start of a fresh chapter.
 
Returning to their independent roots and the bold creative defiance that launched them into the mainstream with 2008’s Level, a new set of tunes will continue to roll out through 2025. Recorded at Panhandle House Studio in their hometown of Denton, Texas – also the birthplace of Level – it promises to bring fans a full-circle moment driven by experience and a million miles of wisdom, from a band of brothers still very much in their prime.
 
Meanwhile, Eli Young Band continue to rack up accolades. Along with wrapping their 10 Years: 10,000 Towns Tour this summer, the band celebrated new certifications of their chart topping, Platinum album Life at Best, plus 5x Platinum single “Crazy Girl” and the 3x Platinum “Even If It Breaks Your Heart.”
 
The band now boast 13 million RIAA-certified units in the US alone and are currently on the road headlining their Home in Hometown Tour with dates scheduled through December 21 at the legendary Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, Texas.
 
Since the band’s formation as college classmates more than two decades ago, the Associated Press has celebrated EYB as “a smart, relevant antidote” to overdone clichés in Country music. The musical band of brothers has charted 14 singles on Billboard, including four No. 1 hits with the aforementioned “Crazy Girl,” “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” 2x Platinum “Love Ain’t” and Platinum “Drunk Last Night.” Additionally, EYB has earned multiple GRAMMY, CMA, CMT, ACA and Teen Choice Award nominations.
 
While selling out venues from coast-to-coast as seasoned headliners, EYB has also shared the stage with Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, Toby Keith, Chris Young, Darius Rucker and Dave Matthews Band. For current tour dates and more, visit eliyoungband.com and follow along on social media with @EliYoungBand.

Eli Young Band Home in Hometown Tour Dates are as follows:

Nov. 15           The Stockyard in Holiday, FL   
Nov. 16           Wild Greg's Saloon in Lakeland, FL
Nov. 23           Desert Sky Festival in Mesa, AZ                   
Dec. 5              Wally’s in Hampton Beach, NH
Dec. 6              Off The Rails in Worcester, MA
Dec. 14            The Post OG in Orange Grove, TX
Dec. 20            Rosa Hart Theatre in Lake Charles, LA
Dec. 21            Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, TX

“TEXAS” – COUNTRY MUSIC ICON BLAKE SHELTON’S NEW SINGLE AVAILABLE NOW

Country superstar Blake Shelton today makes his BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville debut with the release of his anthemic new single “Texas,” kicking off an iconic new chapter to his storied career. Unlike anything he’s ever cut, the commanding new track also made its world premiere on Country radio today, impacting this Monday, November 18 via Wheelhouse Records. Listen below.

 

“The thing that struck me about ‘Texas’ immediately was how different it sounded for me, and I’m always looking to push myself,” said Shelton. “I think there’s something really special about this record, and it feels important to me.” 

Produced by Shelton’s longtime, award-winning producer Scott Hendricks and written by Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr and Lalo Guzman, the infectious groove finds a man left in the dust by a free-spirited woman who has no clue where she has gone, but speculates she’s probably in Texas. Putting a fresh twist on the age-old theme of lost love with a gentle nod to George Strait, who knows best where all the exes go, it’s drenched in classic Texas charm, enticing listeners to sing along. 

Also available today (11/15) at 1:00 pm/CT is the official music video. Shelton teamed with longtime collaborators and directors - Ada Rothlein and Jennifer Ansell. The female lead for the video is Genesis Rodriguez, who is featured in season two of Taylor Sheridan’s CIA drama, Lioness

“My scenes are filmed inside a bar right up my alley,” joked Shelton. “I’ve worked with Adam and Jennifer many times, so they know how to make these videos easy and authentic for me. But until I saw the final edit of the video, I had no idea what she had in that briefcase! So tune in to find out what I’m talking about.” 

Not only can fans catch Shelton today (11/15) at SiriusXM’s Music Row Happy Hour in Nashville, but the superstar will also be featured on tonight’s episode of CBS’ Entertainment Tonight and this weekend’s edition of CMT Hot 20. Then on November 20, Shelton will take “Texas” to the stage of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live for an interview and outdoor stage performance of the song.   

With 29 #1 singles, Shelton recently topped the charts with Post Malone and the smash hit “Pour Me A Drink.”

About Blake Shelton: 

With 29 #1 singles, 52 million singles and 13 million albums sold and nearly 11 billion global streams, Blake Shelton has received numerous awards, including six ACMs, three AMAs, ten CMAs, 11 CMTs and six People’s Choice, among many others. Shelton just released his new single “Texas” on November 15. The fresh and addictive song captures the classic theme of lost love with a twist and nod to George Strait, who knows best where all the exes go! “This is the perfect opportunity to come back with something so different, and it easily felt like it should be the first single,” said Shelton. “It’s connected with what I’ve done but moves forward at the same time, and it’s the perfect start to the next chapter of my career.” Written by Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr & Lalo Guzman, “Texas” is Shelton’s debut for BBR MUSIC GROUP/BMG NASHVILLE and Wheelhouse Records. 

Shelton has a wide array of shows in 2025, with his “Live In Las Vegas” Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The residency will occur on February 5, 7, 8, 12, 14, and 15. His “Friends And Heroes” Tour will Kick off February 27 in Lexington, KY, and feature Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins and Emily Ann Roberts. The Grand Ole Opry member also remains focused on his Ole Red partnership with Ryman Hospitality, with locations currently in Tishomingo, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Orlando, and most recently, Las Vegas, with a stand-alone venue complete with a roof-top stage and bar on the Las Vegas strip.

KEEP UP WITH BLAKE SHELTON

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JOHN MORGAN RELEASES “I KNOW BETTER,” AS “FRIENDS LIKE THAT (FEAT. JASON ALDEAN)” SOARS TOWARD TOP 20 AT COUNTRY RADIO

MULTI #1 hit songwriter John Morgan is giving into fan demand and releasing new music he’s been previewing on the road, today releasing the confident and buoyant “I Know Better.” Destroying any pretense that someone’s life was better pre-relationship, the assertive new song was both co-produced and co-written by John with producer Brent Anderson (Blake Shelton, Dustin Lynch, and Cole Swindell) and writers Rocky Block, Will Bundy and Lydia Vaughan. Listen now below.

“When writing this song, we wanted to put a positive spin on the ‘man, I knew better’ phrase.  This flips that on its head,” shares John. “I love the way it turned out and seeing the response out on the road with Nate [Smith] has been incredible. He’s been bringing me up on stage to sing ‘Whiskey On You.’ Being on tour with him has been such a fun ride. Pumped to end the year on such a high note knowing my debut album is coming soon!” 

Having earned cuts amongst country music biggest stars such as Thomas Rhett, Dustin Lynch and Jon Pardi, John has also consistently delivered massive hits for ACM Artist of the Decade Jason Aldean like his GRAMMY-nominated and ACM Single of the Year “If I Didn’t Love You” with Carrie Underwood, #1 “Trouble With A Heartbreak,” and current radio single “Whiskey Drink.” The prolific “Music City Songwriting Star” (Tennessean), who has “already established his bonafides in the songwriting realm” (Billboard), is currently opening for Nate Smith on his “Through The Smoke Tour” and will make his Stagecoach Festival debut next April 2025. 

Readying his highly anticipated debut album for early next year, the authentically humble but boldly gritty and innately talented artist that Saving Country Music advised to “keep on your radar” continues his rise at country radio, as his debut single “Friends Like That (feat. Jason Aldean)” closes in on Top 20. MusicRow praised the break-up smash as “Upbeat and jaunty,” noting, “This is Morgan’s record all the way.” While the Tennesseanboasted the anthemic single as a “live concert favorite whose banjo and steel underpinnings still allow room for a hard-rocking core,” and Billboard adding, “the breezy melody and pulsing guitars on ‘Friends Like That’ make loneliness sound attractive.”

Introducing himself in 2023 with Remember Us?, the six-song EP mixed his signature “sad-boy country” heartbreakers with lively up-tempo barn burners, effortlessly flowing between romantic relatability and nostalgia to crank-it-to-ten singalongs. Now, “Friends Like That (feat. Jason Aldean,” “I Know Better” and “Long Ride Home” - that All Country News said “not only cements his status as a lyrical maestro but also accelerates his journey towards becoming a household name in country music” - previews what’s to come from John Morgan. 

ABOUT JOHN MORGAN:

With a style that’s defined by melodic grit and a craftsman’s approach to songwriting, John Morgan brings a blue-collar toughness to country that’s pulled straight from the only life he knows. Hailing from a tiny town called Sylva, deep in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, John grew up immersed in bluegrass tradition and even toured the festival circuit each summer in a family band, before diving into songwriting, inspired by six-string legends from Tony Rice to John Mayer. Now, “a Music City songwriting star” (Tennessean), he has earned cuts with Jon Pardi, Dustin Lynch, Thomas Rhett and an outstanding 16 for Jason Aldean, including the superstar’s #1 songs - “Trouble With A Heartbreak” and the GRAMMY® nominated, ACM Single of the Year “If I Didn’t Love You” with Carrie Underwood, along with Aldean’s latest single at country radio “Whiskey Drink” currently climbing the charts. Praised by People as an “accomplished songwriter…establishing himself as a solo artist intriguing enough to watch,” Aldean signed the sought-after, powerhouse artist “with guitar skills that will knock your cowboy boots off" (Nash News) to Night Train Records, his imprint with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Having made his Grand Ole Opry debut and logging hours on the road opening for Aldean, ERNEST, Riley Green and Jameson Rodgers, the 2024 “Artist to Watch” (All Country News) released his critically acclaimed debut EP, Remember Us? in 2023 that launched his barn-burner fan-favorite anthem “Friends Like That.” Hitting the road with Nate Smith on his 2024 “Through The Smoke” Tour, the party starter smash - now featuring Jason Aldean - is his debut single at country radio, currently surging towards the Top 20. With the Tennessean praising the “live concert favorite whose banjo and steel underpinnings still allow room for a hard-rocking core like Dierks Bentley’s catalog of hits,” John's breakout radio single has Billboard applauding, “Broken hearts aren’t typically pleasurable, although the breezy melody and pulsing guitars on ‘Friends Like That’ make loneliness sound attractive.” Giving fans a taste of new music with the heartrendingly smooth “Long Ride Home” and confident “I Know Better,” John Morgan is currently in the studio readying his debut album. 

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Photo Credit: Matthew Berinato

VUKOVI Share Video For "MISTY ECSTASY" — WATCH

VUKOVI have returned with the second single from their upcoming album, MY GOD HAS GOT A GUN, which is set for release on January 24 via SharpTone Records.

Watch the video below.

"MISTY ECSTASY" is a vibrant statement of sexual empowerment and a shining beacon of the joy that it can bring. The track arrives alongside a Saltburn-inspired music video that pairs the sensual-yet-self-assured nature of the song with an almost supernatural eeriness and unquantifiable sense of danger.

Janine Shilstone reinforces the sentiments of the song by saying, "The most fun/tongue-in-cheek song we’ve created. We wanted to put out something that could cut through a very dark and uncertain time for this day and age. Sex should be fun and safe without judgement. OUR BODY OUR CHOICE."

Pre-order and pre-save MY GOD HAS GOT A GUN here.

ABOUT VUKOVI:
As the world waited with bated breath for new material, VUKOVI embarked on their first co-headlining tour across the United States with brethren Calva Louise, supported metal titans Babymetal across the UK, and conquered a number of major music festivals such as Welcome To Rockville, Sonic Temple, Download Festival, Rock For People, and Graspop (to name a few). How they found the time to crisscross the globe, leaving a trail of electrified audiences in their wake, remains a mystery.
 
Some say that when VUKOVI takes the stage, the air hums with a strange electricity, and time itself seems to bend, as if the band is channelling something otherworldly.
 
We asked the band for comment, but were offered no answers, only more questions. 
 
Their songs tell stories that are both intensely personal and universally relatable, exploring themes of mental health, love, and the human condition with a sharp edge. Yet, beneath the surface, there's always an undercurrent of something darker, a sense that the music is a portal to a world just beyond the veil of our reality.
 
As VUKOVI continue to carve their path through the rock landscape, one thing is certain: they are a band unlike any other, a force of nature that refuses to be tamed or fully understood. They invite us to join them on their journey, to explore the uncharted territories of sound and emotion, but they do so on their terms. In the end, perhaps it's the mystery that makes VUKOVI so compelling — a reminder that in a world where everything seems knowable, there are still secrets worth keeping

VUKOVI ARE:
Janine Shilstone — Vocals
Hamish Reilly — Guitars

TULIPOMANIA previews 'I've Been Told' from 'Absolution' album, released in lock-step with bestseller JEFF VANDERMEER

Philadelphia-based art-rock duo Tulipomania are back with 'I've Been Told - Absolution', the first offering from their sixth album 'Absolution', inspired by an invitation from acclaimed author Jeff VanderMeer to contribute music as part of the publication of his latest novel 'Absolution', the surprise fourth volume in his award-winning 'Southern Reach' series.

With a pressingly mournful urgency, this soundscape resonates with the complex energies enveloping VanderMeer’s novel, the author having invited the duo to create music inspired by 'Absolution' while still a work in progress. Hearing that VanderMeer took inspiration for the 'Absolution' novel from their 'Dreaming of Sleep' album, the duo enthusiastically accepted the challenge.

Alternately categorized as cult synth punks, glam-leaning, post-punk, art-rock and muscular chamber pop, Tulipomania is Tom Murray (lead vocals, synthesizer, electronic percussion) and Cheryl Gelover (synthesizer, background vocals) – they first began their collaboration through projects for experimental film and animation classes. Tulipomania evolved from those experiences. Their new 'Absolution' album includes four new tracks inspired by VanderMeer's new novel, plus ten alternate versions of the songs that originally sparked VanderMeer’s interest, reimagined as a cohesive sonic experience.

It's an exciting development for the duo to be involved in this new chapter of the Southern Reach Trilogy with 'Absolution' being the brilliant, beautiful and terrifying final word on one of the most provocative and popular speculative fiction series of our time. An instant sensation, it has been celebrated by the New York Times, Stephen King and many others. With each volume climbing the bestsellers list, accruing awards, it was ultimately adapted in a movie - now a cult classic. The trilogy has now sold more than a million copies, securing its place in the pantheon of 21st century literature.

In the liner notes to the album, VanderMeer lends insight into his creative process: "I remember being in the middle of the ecstatic visions that formed my novel Absolution and discovering Tulipomania's music for the first time, around August of 2023 - this very album's doppelganger, in fact. The original mix of 'Dreaming of Sleep'. It felt like a revelation - hypnotic, pulsing music that got deep hooks into my brain, so I couldn't stop listening to the songs. Like a lighthouse's roving light, the songs felt like a beacon, and the recursive nature of the composition, the sense of a beating heart, a thick muscle at the core of them, combined with the surreal lyrics got deep into the novel's DNA. ... So I was really pleased that this opportunity for this wonderful contamination of (novel / album) to go the other way - the Absolution remix of 'Dreaming of Sleep', with four new Absolution tracks! I really love this band so much - to the point I've listened to and recommend their entire back catalogue - that it's an honor."

“It is a thrill to know that our music and lyrics were an inspiration for Jeff VanderMeer while he was working on his latest novel Absolution," says Tom Murray.

A sign of serendipity, the cover for this album was created by acclaimed artist Pablo Delcan, who also produced the artwork for the 10th anniversary editions of the Southern Reach Trilogy.

“Having the author crowned the ‘weird Thoreau’ entrust us with early versions of his newest novel Absolution was enormously enticing – knowing that he believed we could return with him to the world of Area X for the purpose of a cross-pollination is very exciting," Cheryl Gelover.

"We’re so glad we emerged from the journey with alternate versions of the ten tracks that originally inspired him, as well as four entirely new songs directly inspired by our immersion in the Southern Reach series and the latest novel in the series - Absolution.  It is quite an honor to share a title on our new album with Jeff's latest.”

Jeff VanderMeer fondly describes the animated video for 'I've Been Told - Absolution': "The dreamlike immersion in imagery from the novel creates a hypnotic and perfect effect for both a beautiful dirge and surge of a song and the atmosphere for Absolution. Gorgeous and evocative".  Shot frame by frame, utilizing multiple processes, including thermal printing, to create layered textures, the video features stop-motion animated objects (some frames vibrantly hand-tinted) and glimpses of the duo singing the lyrics. This exploration of various states of disintegration, painstakingly assembling thousands of individual images, evokes Absolution’s themes of dissolution and disorientation.

Described as ‘artistic and inventive’ and ‘gorgeous', Tulipomania's animated music videos have been featured in film festivals worldwide, including the Leeds International Film Festival (UK), StopTrik (Croatia, Poland), AniFilm (Czech Republic) and Tallgrass International Film Festival (USA).

On ‘Absolution', Tulipomania is immersed fully in electronic means of creation – the exception being a sole accent played on electric guitar on the last track. This record involves Executive Producer Howard Thompson, renowned as a record industry executive (Elektra, Island, Almo Sounds), credited for having discovered and / or worked with Adam and the Ants, Billy Bragg, MC5, Mötorhead, PiL, Psychedelic Furs, Robyn Hitchcock, The Sugarcubes and Suicide, among others.

The single ‘I’ve Been Told - Absolution’ is out now via Bandcamp, where the ‘Absolution' album is available for pre-order on CD, vinyl and digitally via Sursumcorda Records. On November 29, the album will be released there and everywhere digitally, including Spotify and Apple Music.

CREDITS
Cheryl Gelover - keyboards and vocals
Tom Murray - bass, drums, keyboards and lead vocals
with additional keyboards by Richard Hartline
Produced and recorded by Tulipomania & Richard Hartline
Mixed and Mastered by Richard Hartline
Liner notes – Jeff VanderMeer
Executive Producer -  Howard Thompson
Album artwork/design – Pablo Delcan
Written by Cheryl Gelover & Tom Murray. Copyright Tulipomania
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with Tulipomania
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San Francisco's AURSJOEN releases debut 'Strand' EP (ethereal / post-punk)

San Francisco-based ethereal artist AURSJOEN presents her debut 'Strand' EP, released via Stratis Capta Records and produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by William Faith (The Bellwether Syndicate, Faith and the Muse, Mephisto Waltz, Christian Death) at 13 Studio in Chicago.

AURSJOEN is the project of Ria Aursjoen, who is vocalist and keyboardist for critically acclaimed post-punk outfit Octavian Winters, whose 2023 debut EP 'The Line or Curve' was followed by 2024's double A-side single 'Nebula / Velveteen' with electronic legend Mark Pistel (Meat Beat Manifesto, Consolidated). A classically-trained singer and multi-instrumentalist, her musical past is steeped in genres ranging from Celtic and Nordic folk to darkwave and progressive metal.

This music is lush, layered and sweepingly cinematic. This dynamic slice of ethereal gothica is dark and light in equal measure. Octavian Winters bandmate Stephan Bryan Salit contributes atmospheric guitars on two songs. While Aursjoen’s voice and composition are distinctly recognizable and unique, the performances and sweeping arrangements somewhat recall Faith’s work with Faith and the Muse

"The title 'Strand' holds two meanings, first being something that is spun or drawn off of something larger, like a strand of hair or a strand of a web. There is a sense that it is not only a piece of a larger whole, but also that it has its own emerging existence, reaching outward and beyond. The word “strand” also means beach in Danish. A beach marks the boundary of one’s defined world; it is a place to gaze out, to dream of possibilities and adventures to come, a point of departure for journeys to new places," explains Ria Aursjoen.

These ideas all relate to this collection of work as AURSJOEN, which heralds Ria Aursjoen’s emergence in a new direction, without leaving behind her ongoing work with Octavian Winters.

She adds, “This record is very special for me, as this is the first time I have had free creative rein to release work that is entirely my own. I have always enjoyed collaborating with other musicians, but I had built up a huge amount of my own material that had nowhere to go. This collection includes a piece written 10 years ago ('Apollo') and one written on the spot in the studio ('Strand'). It’s very exciting and fulfilling for me to bring all that together into one package. The listening arc of this EP represents many different times of life for me. William Faith and I have woven everything together with a recognizable sound that has continuity as well as variety.”

In the lead up to this EP, Aursjoen shared the second single 'For Want Of', offering a glimpse into her versatility as an artist and keeping with the cinematic orchestration found in her ethereal debut 'Nytår'. Sensual and mystical, both beauties nod to her Scandinavian ancestry. Both songs are accompanied by a haunting video created by filmmaker David Kruschke.

"What I really love is to create music that is more than the sum of its parts, where the interplay (either harmonically or rhythmically) between different motifs gives birth to something extra, something “meta” that you can’t predict or engineer. I think those two states of feeling did that in my life too… a different self,  a new era was born for me out of that ice and fire," says Ria Aursjoen

As someone who has synesthesia, a rare neurodiverse condition in which senses overlap, Aursjoen experiences sound as visual structures, colours and textures. As a child, she wrote her musical ideas down in a unique system of notation she created, based around her visual perceptions of music. Ria Aursjoen is also a published writer and visual artist, having won two national art competitions by the age of eight and illustrated a children’s book. She creates much of Octavian Winters’ artwork and currently works with inks and parchment velum to create palimpsest-style art.
 
As of November 15, the 'Strand' EP is out everywhere and is available for pre-order, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
All songs written & performed by Ria Aursjoen
Arranged by Ria Aursjoen and William Faith
Guitars on 'Lilypad' & 'Apollo' by Stephan Bryan Salit
Produced, recorded, mixed & mastered by William Faith at 13 Studio in Chicago
Published by Airdaughter Music BMI
Released by Stratis Capta Records
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR
'Nytår' and 'For Want Of' videos by David Kruschke
Cover artwork by Ria Aursjoen


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