Illusions of Grandeur Unleash Their Darkest Anthem Yet with New Single “CURSES”

Cinematic metal titans Illusions of Grandeur erupt into a new era with the release of their thunderous and theatrical new single, “CURSES.” Known for fusing bone-crushing metal with immersive world-building and dramatic storytelling, the band once again raises the stakes, dragging listeners deeper into their mythic universe.

ABOUT THE SONG:

The song "Curses" by Illusions of Grandeur explores themes of consequence, judgment, and the power of words, continuing the band's narrative-driven style rooted in Greek mythology The song deals directly with the concept of curses and their inescapable consequences. The lyrics begin, "Listen carefully, Lessons silence teach, The more you learn, The less you speak, Wisdom wanes, What lies beneath, Curses, Spoken, Webs your Words wea...". This suggests that actions and even words have lasting, often negative, impacts that can ensnare a person.

BIO:

Illusions of Grandeur

is a powerful female-fronted metal band that captivates audiences with their dynamic sound and theatrical performances.

Illusions Of Grandeur is a Theatrical Hard Rock/Fantasy Metal band based in

Los Angeles, CA USA.

Their performance, “The Siren Saga”, is a story of the journeys, perils, and triumphs of the Siren and her warriors. The story mixes facts and fiction combining Greek and Norse Mythology, Sirens, Gods, Archangels.

NYC's LAPTOP unpacks '90s Fame & Failure on "Indie Hero" with epic video

Laptop, the cult NYC project led by Jesse Hartman (formerly with Island Records), continues their cinematic synth pop revival with “Indie Hero”, a wry and wistful love song to the myth of late 20th century cool, but also a hate song about hero worship gone hideously wrong. Anchored by Laptop’s signature mix of cinematic synths, dry wit, and bittersweet reflection, this track opens a new chapter for Hartman, now joined by his son Charlie as co-frontman in this multi-generational pop experiment, with equal parts satire and sincerity. The single previews their forthcoming album "On This Planet", slated for release in Spring 2026 via Hurricane Cove Records.

The details? Hartman isn’t at liberty to say. Well, maybe just a little: As a teenage guitarist, Hartman once toured overseas with one of his idols, watching the myth of cool dissolve in real time. "Indie Hero" captures the moment (during a fateful night in a Tokyo restaurant), when youthful ambition collided with middle-aged madness. The Hartmans sing: “I’ll dive across a table for you, my indie hero, I’m feeling so unstable for you, my indie hero” - half romantic, half tragic, all reckless. Together they go on a dangerous, adolescent journey, both literally and symbolically, repeating in the outro: “I want to go to Japan again.”  “Indie Hero” ultimately reflects on fame, failure, and the pursuit of artistic immortality.

Hartman shares, “This is a love letter to the ghosts of the ’90s and their obsession with the ghosts of the late ’70s. All the beautiful people who never quite went the distance. Including me. It’s about idol worship, but also about outgrowing it."


The video, directed by Jesse Hartman, reimagines that journey as a Japanese comic-book fever dream: a young musician chasing his dreams and heroes across neon cities and sake bars, only to discover that the real revelation isn’t fame—it’s self-discovery (and maybe a little heartbreak).

“When I was starting out in the ’90s, I met a lot of my punk and new wave heroes in New York’s East Village. They weren’t always as cool as I thought they’d be. It taught me that sometimes it’s best not to meet your heroes, and better to just become your own," Hartman recalls. “I think the video sketches that coming of age picture in comic-al way”.

Written years ago by Hartman and longtime musical collaborator Luke Wood (from Hartman’s first band Sammy), and recorded this past year between New York, Nevis and Valencia, “Indie Hero” layers drums and machines, horns and synths, shimmering guitars and the Hartmans’ sly vocals into something both nostalgic and immediate, like hearing your favorite 2001 record on a futuristic radio.

Laptop emerged in the early 2000s with three cult classic albums on Island Records, earning praise from NME and The Guardian, who dubbed Hartman the master of “insincere sincerity.” Having got his start as a teenage Voidoid with Richard Hell, Hartman then co-founded the indie rock band Sammy (with Luke Wood, later President of Beats by Dre), releasing albums via Fire Records and Geffen Records.


Since reviving the band, Laptop has released the surreal trilogy "Additional Animals", "I Don't Know", and “Weirder”, mixed by Grammy award-winning producer Mario McNulty (David Bowie, Prince, Nine Inch Nails, Julian Lennon), collectively drawing millions of views and reintroducing Laptop’s postmodern humor to a new generation.

Laptop has recently staged an epic return to live performance with a 14-piece band at New York's Sony Hall (their first hometown show in two decades) opening for UK legends Cast, and a headliner show at London's Waiting Room. These Stop Making Sense–like spectacles underscore the scale and ambition of Laptop’s reboot.

As of November 19, “Indie Hero” is available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The full album "On This Planet" will be released in Spring 2026.

CREDITS

Written by Jesse Hartman and Luke Wood (BMI) 

Published by Exurbia Music, Inc. 

Released by Hurricane Cove Records

Jesse Hartman – vocals, guitars, keyboards, synths, piano, bass, percussion

Charlie Hartman – vocals

Lulu Hartman – vocals
Anna Heddad – vocals

Geddys “Ch4se” Ferguson – vocals
Arthur Lewis – keys, piano, vocals

Mike Desmarais – drums

Lluisen Capafons – drums, congas, additional percussion
Dima Faustov – Saxophone
Lev Borovskiy – trumpet and trombone

Santo Fazio – Harmonica
Oliver Freiberg – drum programming

Produced by Jesse Hartman

Recorded by Iñaki Ariste Aznar (Valencia), Edward Douglas (NYC), Jesse Hartman (NYC/Nevis)
Mixed by Jesse Hartman, Ray Aldaco, Edward Douglas (final mix by Jesse Hartman & Edward Douglas)

Mastered by Dave Trumfio

Recorded in Valencia, Spain. Additional sessions in Nevis. Final overdubs & edits in NYC
Video concept, direction, cinematography & editing by Jesse Hartman

Featuring Charlie Hartman, Jesse Hartman & the Laptop band: Santo Fazio, Flynn Mulcahy, Fergus Segrove, Aviv Tal, Odetta Hartman, Camellia Hartman, Denise Gordon, Alex Friedman, Richard Baskin, Brandon Volel & Sam Rowley
Shot at Tall Tree Court and Sony Hall (at a live Laptop show September 3, 2025)

Cover artwork by Jesse Hartman & Scott Ratner
Artist photos by Thomas Krause
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Eric Church Performed "Bleed On Paper" on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Ahead of Friday's Live Track Release

Eric Church closed out the 2025 leg of his critically acclaimed Free The Machine Tour this past weekend in Los Angeles, delivering the kind of boundary-pushing live spectacle fans have come to expect from the 11-time GRAMMY nominee – including a nod this year for Best Contemporary Country Album with his latest, Evangeline vs. The Machine. The finale, packed with deep cuts, fan favorites, and the tour’s signature immersive production, brought an exclamation point to a year of sold-out arena stops that drew raves from critics and fans alike.
 
The Inglewood show capped a run that saw Church redefine what a modern arena tour can be – from unpredictable audibles, like bringing longtime vocal partner Joanna Cotten out for a surprise “Drowning Man” setlist addition late in the show or adding a trombone solo from Roy Agee before “Knives of New Orleans,” to the cinematic production that tells the visual story of Evangeline vs. The Machine from start to finish as Church brings the songs to life. Whether backed by 24 orchestral musicians, the original Eric Church Band, or standing alone with just his guitar, Free The Machine spotlights Church at his most daring. And with 24 newly added-dates on sale now via EricChurch.com, fans won’t have to wait long for more: Free The Machine resumes in January.
 
The new year also brings a unique offering from the man Rolling Stone celebrates for creating “a record that is both dazzling and challenging, and creates a listening experience that upends the idea of what country music is,” as Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive releases exclusively in IMAX theaters across the U.S. and Canada for limited showings on Wednesday, Feb. 11 & Saturday, Feb. 14. A full list of locations is available via IMAX.com/EricChurch along with tickets to the limited engagement on sale now.
 
Filmed across two nights at The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tenn., the concert film is also complimented by a 19-track live album, Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) arriving Friday, Feb. 13 and available for pre-order / pre-save HERE. In addition to preview tracks “Desperate Man (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” available HERE and “Knives Of New Orleans (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” available HERE, “Bleed On Paper (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” arrives this Friday, Nov. 21. Pre-order / pre-save HERE.
 
Church joined ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” last night (Nov. 17) to preview the track, joined onstage by all 24 musicians from both the Free The Machine Tour and the live recording. Watch Below.
 
For more information on all to come, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and on Instagram @ericchurchmusic.

2026 Free the Machine Tour Markets, Venues and Special Guests:
Jan. 22  ||  Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem  ||  Caylee Hammack
Jan. 23  ||  Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem  ||  Caylee Hammack
Feb. 5  ||  Omaha, Neb.  ||  CHI Health Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 6  ||  Sioux Falls, S.D.  ||  Denny Sanford PREMIER Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 7  ||  St. Paul, Minn.  ||  Grand Casino Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 12  ||  Toronto, Ont.  ||  Scotiabank Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 13  ||  Buffalo, N.Y.  ||  KeyBank Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 14  ||  Albany, N.Y.  ||  MVP Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 19  ||  North Little Rock, Ark.  ||  Simmons Bank Arena  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 20  ||  Kansas City, Mo.  ||  T-Mobile Center  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 21  ||  St. Louis, Mo.  ||  Enterprise Center  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 26  ||  Tulsa, Okla.  ||  BOK Center  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Feb. 27  ||  Fort Worth, Texas  ||  Dickies Arena  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Feb. 28  ||  Austin, Texas  ||  Moody Center  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Mar. 5  ||  Knoxville, Tenn.  ||  Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 6  ||  Greensboro, N.C.  ||  First Horizon Coliseum  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 7  ||  North Charleston, S.C.  ||  North Charleston Coliseum  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 19  ||  Birmingham, Ala.  ||  Legacy Arena at the BJCC  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 20  ||  Atlanta, Ga.  ||  State Farm Arena  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 27  ||  Hollywood, Fla.  ||  Hard Rock Live  ||  Kashus Culpepper
Apr. 3  ||  Greenville, S.C.  ||  Bon Secours Wellness Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 4  ||  Charlotte, N.C.  ||  Spectrum Center  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 10  ||  Jacksonville, Fla.  ||  VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 11  ||  Tampa, Fla.  ||  Benchmark International Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde

About Eric Church
A seven-time ACM Award winner, four-time CMA Award winner (including 2020’s Entertainer of the Year, TIME100 Philanthropy 2025 honoree and 11-time GRAMMY nominee – including four nods for Best Country Album, Eric Church has built a passionate fan base through his critically acclaimed catalog of music. Church’s October 2024 release, “Darkest Hour,” saw the superstar signing over all of his publishing royalties to the people of North Carolina to provide immediate relief following the devastation of Hurricane Helene while also providing ongoing funds to support a more resilient future for his home state. The song is featured alongside current single “Hands Of Time” on his latest album, Evangeline vs. The Machine, marking his first new music since 2021’s Heart & Soul triple album (“Stick That In Your Country Song,” “Hell Of A View”). That project followed prior releases including RIAA Gold-certified Desperate Man (“Some Of It,” “Desperate Man”), Platinum-certified Sinners Like Me (“How ’Bout You,” “Guys Like Me”), Carolina (“Smoke a Little Smoke,” “Love Your Love the Most”) and Mr. Misunderstood (“Record Year,” “Round Here Buzz”), Double-Platinum certified The Outsiders (“Like a Wrecking Ball,” “Talladega”) and 4x Platinum-certified Chief (“Springsteen,” “Drink In My Hand”), as well as 32 Gold, Platinum and multi-Platinum certified songs. Church is also a minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets, a co-owner of the iconic Field & Stream brand, and has his own SiriusXM music channel, “Eric Church Outsiders Radio,” his own liquor offering, Whiskey JYPSI, and his six-story venue on Nashville’s famed lower Broadway, Chief’s. For more information, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and on Instagram @ericchurchmusic.

ATAVISTIA Unleash New Single “Through The Hollow Raven’s Eyes (Reforged)” from The Winter Way (Reforged)

Symphonic melodic death metal band ATAVISTIA return with renewed ferocity on their upcoming single “Through The Hollow Raven’s Eyes (Reforged),” set for release on November 14, 2025 via Blood Blast Distribution. The track serves as the second offering from their completely reimagined and re-recorded album The Winter Way (Reforged), arriving December 12, 2025.

Originally released in 2020, The Winter Way marked a defining moment for ATAVISTIA’s ambitious fusion of extreme metal and orchestral soundscapes. However, founder Mattias Sippola admits the band was never satisfied with its production or execution, saying, “It was simply not even close enough to being ready. From fat trimming, performance during the recording stage, and the overall production, it just wasn’t there.” After the original release, the album became a forgotten and dark chapter until the idea of reforging it brought it new life.

While working on a brand new album, unforeseen delays left a void in ATAVISTIA’s creative path. During this pause, Sippola decided to completely reconstruct The Winter Way from the ground up. This new version is not a remix or remaster but an entirely new recording, featuring reworked arrangements, modern production, and rewritten orchestral and atmospheric elements. Some of the original drum and bass recordings remain but have been refined for tighter performance. The addition of Spencer Budworth’s powerful growls brings an entirely new energy to the mix, elevating the album to new heights.

“Through The Hollow Raven’s Eyes (Reforged)” stands as the fastest and most complex composition on the record. Trimmed and refined to sharpen its impact, the song features adjusted vocal melodies and lyrics that better match the pacing and atmosphere of the updated arrangement. The result is a dynamic and emotionally charged piece that captures ATAVISTIA’s evolution as both musicians and producers.

The Winter Way (Reforged) showcases ATAVISTIA’s ability to merge cinematic orchestrations with ferocious metal intensity. It was produced, mixed, and mastered by Matthew Richard Sippola at Atavistic Studios with engineering support from Maximilian Sepulveda. The recording lineup includes Mattias Sippola on vocals, guitars, orchestrations, and production, Max Sepulveda on drums, Spencer Budworth on backing vocals, and D’wayne Murray on bass. The album artwork was created by Simo Häsänen.

ATAVISTIA lineup:

Mattias Sippola - Guitar, Vocals, Composition, Production
Max Sepulveda - Drums, Engineering
Elia Baghbaniyan - Guitar
Spencer Budworth - Bass, Vocals
 

About ATAVISTIA:

Formed in 2017 in Vancouver, Canada, ATAVISTIA takes their fans on a spellbinding journey though vast sonic landscapes of snow covered forests, desolate tundras, and permafrost-laden landscapes. Fans of WINTERSUN, ENSIFERUM, DIMMU BORGIR, and XANTHOCHROID will be enthralled by the elements of melodic death metal, black metal, and Scandinavian folk that is intricately woven together throughout their diverse soundscape.

Taking inspiration from the majestic natural landscapes of their homeland, earthly seasons, and ancient Norse culture, ATAVISTIA’s grandiose sound matches these lyrical themes in an impressive symphony of destruction. Their debut EP, One With The Sun (2017) introduced their unique blend of beauty and ferocity, which they followed up with a stormy full-length in 2020 through The Winter Way. The next two releases, the full-length Cosmic Warfare (2023) and the EP Inane Duncam (2024), saw the band spreading their wings and exploring a wider variety of influences. Through it all, ATAVISTIA balances graceful melodies with a brutal rhythmic cacophony, swirling elegance and fury together like a ferocious northern blizzard.

On stage, ATAVISTIA is a force of nature, like waves crashing against a rocky shore. Their music washes over audiences worldwide, leaving them gasping for more long after the last note has faded. They have toured Europe twice alongside notable acts such as SKÁLMÖLD, METSATÖLL, and SEVEN SPIRES, and have opened locally for MOONSPELL, ELEINE, and OCEANS OF SLUMBER. ATAVISTIA has firmly established its presence in a niche among a wide swath of metal genres.

Are you ready to lose yourself in the juxtaposition of lush and arid, the dichotomy of hope and despair, and welcome the inevitable and beautiful end?

CLOCKTOWERS Unleash Explosive New Single "Spirit Junkie," A Soul-Baring Anthem of Pain, Power, and Redemption

Rising modern rock outfit CLOCKTOWERS have released their new single “Spirit Junkie,” from their forthcoming album Genesis, alongside a striking new music video. 

Blending the aggressive edge of modern metal with the soul and grit of 1970s rock, CLOCKTOWERS continue to define their sound as one of the most dynamic forces in today’s rock scene.

“Spirit Junkie” opens with full force, featuring powerful guitars, bass, and drums locked into a driving groove built for the stage. The track showcases the band’s signature combination of raw energy and precision, leading into a standout wah-infused guitar solo that closes the song with intensity and purpose.

Lyrically, “Spirit Junkie” tells the story of a man consumed by his inner demons and the pull of addiction. Written from a self-reflective point of view, the song explores denial, self-deception, and the search for relief from personal torment. The music video for the track visually represents this struggle, creating a stark and emotional counterpart to the song’s message.

At 3 minutes and 17 seconds, “Spirit Junkie” delivers a straightforward dose of modern rock that captures both the heaviness and heart of CLOCKTOWERS’ sound. With its sharp hooks, driving rhythm, and emotional depth, the single sets the tone for what’s to come on Genesis.

About CLOCKTOWERS:

CLOCKTOWERS is a genre-blending rock/metal duo that proves lightning can strike twice—first in the past, then in the most unexpected moment years later. The band was officially born in 2022, but the story begins long before that.

Vocalist Tarek Puska and multi-instrumentalist Dakota Logan first crossed paths in an earlier metal outfit that spent five years grinding through shows, songwriting sessions, and the chaotic rhythm of band life. Life eventually pulled them in different directions—but fate clearly had other plans. Years later, in the unassuming town of Reily, Ohio, the two reconnected by chance at a local pizza joint. A quick conversation turned into a jam session. One riff became a song—“Spirit Junkie”—and by the end of that session, CLOCKTOWERS had begun.

What followed was a creative eruption. Tarek and Dakota fell into a regular routine, meeting 2 to 3 days per week to write, explore sounds, and record from the ground up in a DIY home studio setting. Over the next two years, this process grew into their debut full-length album, Genesis—a record that pulses with heavy riffs, soaring melodies, and the kind of authenticity that only comes from lived experience and musical trust.

At its core, CLOCKTOWERS thrives on contrast and chemistry. Tarek, born in 1969, brings a lifetime of hard-earned perspective and vocal power rooted in classic metal and rock traditions. Dakota, born in 1995, injects fresh energy, fearless experimentation, and a modern edge that pushes the sound into uncharted territory. Their 25-year age gap isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower. It allows the band to seamlessly blend old-school grit with new-school fire, delivering music that’s nostalgic without being dated, current without being trendy.

CLOCKTOWERS draws inspiration from a wide palette of heavy music: the swagger and electricity of AC/DC, the doom-soaked weight of BLACK SABBATH, the eerie theatricality of GHOST, the brooding darkness of TYPE O NEGATIVE, the bombast of KISS, and the razor-sharp muscle of METALLICA. Yet, these aren’t just influences—they’re launch pads. CLOCKTOWERS takes what’s familiar and twists it into something personal and raw, layering in textures, emotions, and hooks that make their sound unmistakable.

The band’s songwriting is deeply intentional. Some tracks stem directly from personal experience—loss, growth, heartbreak, and perseverance—while others flow from instinct and emotion, letting the pen follow the pulse of the heart. The result is music that hits hard not just sonically, but emotionally. Big choruses, pounding grooves, and intricate guitar work are matched with lyrics that are introspective, honest, and often cathartic.

One of their standout tracks, “Ashes,” caught the attention of Jason Viebrooks, known for his work with HEATHEN, GRIP INC., and now EXHORDER. Viebrooks lent his talents on bass and guitar alongside Dakota for the single, while Todd J. Farler, a seasoned drummer from Cincinnati, added a thunderous groove that elevated the track even further. It’s the only track on the record that features guest musicians—every other note, riff, and lyric on Genesis comes straight from the two founding members. That was a deliberate decision. CLOCKTOWERS is about preserving a raw, undiluted vision. No filler. No compromises.

With Genesis, CLOCKTOWERS has positioned itself not just as a band, but as a statement—a declaration that real, passionate, no-bullshit rock and metal is alive, evolving, and still capable of hitting you straight in the soul. Whether you’re a lifer raised on vinyl and leather jackets, or a newcomer looking for authenticity in a crowded digital landscape, CLOCKTOWERS offers something that resonates.

This is music forged in connection. Fueled by memory. Driven by instinct. And played with the kind of conviction that can only come from two people who live and breathe it.

CLOCKTOWERS is:

  • Tarek Puska – Vocals

  • Dakota Logan – All instruments (guitars, bass, additional production)

Second Harbour Drop "Mourning Dove" Video

Canadian emo-rock trio SECOND HARBOUR — comprised of brothers Xavierand Vincent Morency, along with John Muggianu — recently announced their signing to SharpTone Records and will release the Coalesce EP on December 12. Pre-order it here

Second Harbour today share the video for angular and unforgettable new single "Mourning Dove."

Watch it below

In true DIY fashion, the video was shot and edited by the band and it features the members knuckling down on their instruments while playing in an abandoned house.

As for the song, the subject matter goes for the jugular.

“The lyrics to 'Mourning Dove' are hands down the most painful I've ever written," offers Xavier. "They're made to spear you in the stomach, and unapologetically so. Coincidentally, they're also my favorite lyrics of ours. I spent a lot of time making sure they could be read differently than they were heard, and I couldn't be more proud of the song we built around them.” 

Ponte Del Diavolo Announce New Album 'De Venom Natura'

Last year, Ponte Del Diavolo made their mark by bridging the gap between several darkened corners of the underground on their fiery debut album. Fire Blades from the Tomb welds doom, black metal and post-punk into a towering, twisted, new wave of dark art that's as cruel and mesmerizing as their native Italy's infamous Devil's Bridge.

"...a bold, engrossing, fully formed debut from a talented new band", wrote Last Rites.

Today, the Italians are fanning the flames by announcing their new album. De Venom Natura pushes the band’s potent fusion even further behind their distinct, dueling bass guitars. Forged in the fires unearthed by their ritualistic performances, the album offers an intoxicating meditation on nature’s poisonous undercurrent. Charmed by Erba del Diavolo’s bewitching vocals, the lyrics slither and snake around the idea that every life form carries its own toxin that brings both rebirth and decay.  

“For this record, we wanted to push the boundaries of our music and further develop certain sounds that were only sketched in our previous works,” Ponte Del Diavolo says. “After two years of live shows, we set out to capture the atmosphere of our performances and put it on record. The core of bass, guitar, and drums was recorded live to recreate that feeling of being at one of our shows.”

De Venom Natura comes out February 13, 2026 on Season of Mist. More details will be announced soon.  

PONTE DEL DIAVOLO craft a focused blend of doom, black metal, post‐punk, and wave—an aesthetic they call “blackened post‐punk.” Wave‐tinged female vocals anchor the project’s flaming core, supported by an uncommon dual‐bass setup that grounds the rhythmic guitars and a raw, dynamic drum pulse.

The result is an immersive, tension‐driven sound. Following the initial release of three EPs, the band signed to Season of Mist and unveiled their first full-length album, Fire Blades from the Tomb.

After two years on the road - appearing at leading European festivals such as Roadburn and Inferno in support of their debut - Ponte del Diavolo return with “De Venom Natura,” a record that extends and refines their musical boundaries.

Line-up:
Erba del Diavolo — Vocals
Khrura Abro — Bass
Kratom — Bass
Nerium — Guitar
Segale Cornuta — Drums

Production Credits:
Recorded at The Deepest Sea, Turin, Italy.
Produced & Engineered by Danilo Battocchio.
Mixed by Danilo Battocchio at The Deepest Sea.
Mastered by Magnus Lindberg at Redmount Studios, Stockholm, Sweden.

Guest Musicians:
Francesco Bucci
Sergio Bertani
Vittorio Sabelli
Gionata Potenti

Cover Art:
Francesco Dossena (https://www.instagram.com/facciobruttefacce/)
Follow Ponte Del Diavolo:
Bandcamp: https://pontedeldiavolo666.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PontedelDiavolo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pontedeldiavoloband/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pontedeldiavolo3847
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4mAfr0B2wgIFbVBUAv9btD/
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/ponte-del-diavolo/1639072320
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/179497657
Tidal: https://tidal.com/artist/33773763

BATTLE BEAST - Unleash Explosive New Video “Watch The Sky Fall”

In the midst of their ongoing and highly successful European tour, Finnish heavy metal powerhouse BATTLE BEAST is giving fans another reason to celebrate.
The band has just released 'Watch The Sky Fall', a new highlight track from their recently launched album Steelbound, out now via Nuclear Blast Records (released October 17th).

'Watch The Sky Fall' is a high-octane, melodic rock-metal anthem that captures the band’s trademark mix of power, emotion, and electrifying energy. Frontwoman Noora Louhimo delivers a stunning vocal performance that soars over the track’s driving riffs and anthemic choruses.

Accompanying the release is a cinematic music video that intertwines a gripping storyline about a dramatic heist gone wrong with the band’s explosive on-stage presence—offering both a visual and sonic feast for fans of adrenaline-fueled metal.

Watch the video below.

Listen to Steelbound on all platforms: https://battlebeast.bfan.link/steelbound-album

BATTLE BEAST is currently still on European tour, so catch them while you can.

BATTLE BEAST is:
Noora Louhimo | vocals
Eero Sipilä | bass
Joona Björkroth | guitars
Juuso Soinio | guitars
Janne Björkroth | keyboards
Pyry Vikki | drums

The Devil Wears Prada Announce Spring 2026 Headline Tour

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA — Mike Hranica [vocals], Jeremy DePoyster[guitar, clean vocals], Kyle Sipress [guitar], Jonathan Gering [keys, synths, programming, percussion], and Giuseppe Capolupo [drums] — just released their critically acclaimed ninth album Flowers last week via Solid State Records. Get it here.

Today, the band, fresh off an international tour schedule that would crush mere mortals and saw the band perform at Orlando Warped Tour, and in South Africa, Australia, and across Europe, announces its Spring 2026 headline tour in support of the album. The tour will feature Four Year Strong, Split Chain, and I Promised the World. The trek kicks off March 13 in Oklahoma City and runs through April 12 in Nashville. All dates are below.

Tickets go on sale on Friday, November 21 at 10am local time. Get tickets here.

TDWP will also set sail on the Emo's Not Dead Cruise in January, as well

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA ON TOUR:
WITH FOUR YEAR STRONG, SPLIT CHAIN, + I PROMISED THE WORLD:

3/13 — Oklahoma City, OK — Diamond Ballroom
3/14 — Ft Worth, TX — Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall
3/15 — San Antonio, TX — Vibes Event Center
3/17 — Tucson, AZ — Rialto Theatre
3/18 — Las Vegas, NV — House of Blues
3/20 — Riverside, CA — Riverside Municipal Auditorium
3/21 — San Diego, CA — Soma
3/22 — Sacramento, CA — Ace of Spades
3/24 — Spokane, WA — Knitting Factory
3/25 — Boise, ID — Knitting Factory
3/27 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Depot
3/28 — Denver, CO — Summit
3/29 — Lawrence, KS — Granada
3/31 — Minneapolis, MN — The Fillmore
4/1 — Madison, WI — Sylvee
4/2 — Grand Rapids, MI — The Intersection
4/3 — Cleveland, OH — House of Blues
4/5 — Raleigh, NC — The Ritz
4/7 — Jacksonville, FL — FIVE
4/8 — Fort Lauderdale, FL — Revolution
4/10 — North Myrtle Beach, SC — House of Blues
4/11 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
4/12 — Nashville, TN — Brooklyn Bowl

DISSENTIENCE Unleashes "Chaos Absolute," A Frantic Descent into Power and Destruction

Progressive death-thrash band DISSENTIENCE has announced the release of “Chaos Absolute,” the second single from their forthcoming concept EP Kaiju, due out February 20, 2026.

Kicking off with a high-tension, syncopated intro, “Chaos Absolute” roars into life with a massive groove that is both ferocious and unexpectedly infectious. True to DISSENTIENCE’s trademark blend of precision and chaos, the track fuses dissonant harmonies, razor-sharp riffs, and relentlessly driving drums into a controlled sonic detonation.

Exploring the human element behind cataclysmic destruction, “Chaos Absolute” shifts focus from the towering monsters of Kaiju to the turmoil unfolding in the world’s halls of power. Through the lens of a desperate roundtable of world leaders, the song paints a chilling portrait of collapse, both political and psychological, as civilization spirals toward ruin.

A haunting clean section midway through the track offers a brief reprieve before the band drops one of the heaviest riffs on the entire record. The refrain “Fall into chaos absolute” encapsulates both the listener’s experience and the conceptual heart of the song, capturing the unstoppable disintegration of order.

“Chaos Absolute” also showcases blistering guitar solos from Connor Valentin and Jimmy Vitale, culminating in a climactic return to the thrash-driven frenzy that defines the track. The result is a piece that is as intellectually engaging as it is devastatingly heavy, an unflinching look at humanity’s role in its own undoing.

With Kaiju, DISSENTIENCE continues to push the boundaries of modern metal storytelling, blending technical mastery with cinematic scope. Fans can expect an immersive experience when the full EP drops February 20, 2026.

Kaiju is a four-track concept EP inspired by Japanese monster cinema and Lovecraftian horror. Produced by the band alongside Corey Pierce, the record was engineered by Matt Menafro at Peach Pie Sound, mixed by Zeuss, and mastered by Alan Douches. The full EP will be released independently on digital and CD formats.

About DISSENTIENCE: 

Formed in 2013 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, DISSENTIENCE is a progressive death-thrash metal band that combines the technical precision of death metal with the relentless energy of thrash. Rejecting retro imitation and genre stagnation, the band creates forward-thinking metal that is both aggressive and dynamic. Drawing influence from bands like TRIVIUM, REVOCATION, SYLOSIS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, DEATH, and LAMB OF GOD, DISSENTIENCE forges a sound built on sharp riffs, crushing rhythms, and inventive songwriting.

The lineup features Connor Valentin on guitar and vocals, James Vitale on guitar, Sean Langer on bass, and Nick Scherden on drums. Known for their intense live performances and refusal to be confined to a single subgenre, the band continuously pushes their sound in new directions. Their music balances chaos and melody while exploring dark themes through a modern lens.

After releasing their debut EP Mask of Pretense in 2018 and their full-length album Empire Anatomy in 2022, DISSENTIENCE returned with the concept EP Kaiju in 2026. The record blends the devastation of giant monster cinema with the dread of Lovecraftian horror, showcasing the band’s evolution in sound and narrative depth. DISSENTIENCE has earned a reputation as one of the most compelling rising forces in heavy music. Their mission is clear: to make metal that is uncompromising, inventive, and unapologetically intense.

SOUND FURY MAGAZINE Announces their own 2025 Music Awards Celebrating the Loudest, Boldest, and Most Fearless in Rock and Metal

The amps are cranked, the mics are live, and the fury is about to erupt.

Sound Fury Magazine and founder

Evan J. Thomas proudly announces the first annual Sound Fury Magazine Music Awards 2025, a high-voltage celebration honoring the year’s most explosive artists in rock, metal, punk, and alternative music.

From underground scene-shakers to arena dominators, the Sound Fury Music Awards spotlight the artists, albums, and performances that defined the sound of rebellion in 2025. This year’s ceremony promises to push the limits even further — bigger categories, fun categories, louder performances, and a

fan-driven spirit that captures the true heart of heavy music.

“This isn’t your typical awards show,” says Evan J. Thomas, Editor of Sound Fury Magazine. “This is something a bit different — a celebration of passion, creativity, and the unstoppable energy of rock and metal culture. The Sound Fury Magazine Awards are about giving the spotlight back to the artists and fans who keep the fire burning.”

The 2025 categories include fan favorites such as:

  • Album of the Year

  • Song of the Year

  • Breakthrough Artist

  • Live Performance of the Year

  • Music Video of the Year

  • Best Underground Act

  • Fan’s Choice Award For Favorite Band

  • Fan’s Choice Award For Favorite Song

  • Riff of the Year

  • Best Tour Name

This year also introduces new categories that celebrate the ever-evolving scene — honoring artists who blur genres and redefine what it means to be heavy.

Fans will be able to cast their votes online beginning December 1 with winners

announced during the official

Sound Fury Magazine Awards

event streaming TBA on all major platforms.

The 2025 event will feature special guest appearances and the debut of the Sound Fury Magazine Hall of Legends, recognizing lifetime contributions to the world of rock and metal.

About Sound Fury Magazine

Sound Fury Magazine was the mastermind from TAG Publicity head publicist

Evan J. Thomas and is the ultimate destination for rock, metal, and alternative music fans. Debuting in April 2025 with issues being released quarterly (March, June, September, December) Dedicated to amplifying the voices of both emerging and established artists, the publication delivers bold interviews, in-depth features, bad ass photography, concert reviews, opinion pieces and raw coverage that celebrates the energy and evolution of the modern rock,

metal and punk scene.

2 Issues have been released to date

Vol. 1 Summer 2025 feat. Carla Harvey

Vol. 2 Fall 2025 feat. Ozzy Osbourne

TYKETTO ANNOUNCE NEW STUDIO ALBUM CLOSER TO THE SUN SET FOR RELEASE MARCH 20 NEW SINGLE ‘HIGHER THAN HIGH’ OUT NOW

Hard rocking songsmiths TYKETTO will release their 6th studio album, Closer To The Sun, through Silver Lining Music on March 20th 2026, and with it, unleash some of their best, supremely crafted rock anthems celebratingthe return of this criminally underrated quintet originally founded in New York.

The first video and single taken from Closer To The Sun,

‘Higher Than High' is a burst of swing and swagger that perfectly captures Tyketto’s deep appreciation for the emancipation that music can bring. That spirit rings out unmistakably as vocalist and founding member

Danny Vaughn roars: “In the space you can learn to heal/There is music that helps you feel/Higher than high”.

“Higher Than High is, in my estimation, classic Tyketto, where difficulties in life are seen and named but hope and, more importantly, music, is the thing that gets us through,” comments Danny Vaughn. “It's the first single from our new album which we think is going to be a real favorite with the fans. The song and the album say ‘play me loudly and take me for a drive.’”

Watch/Listen to ‘Higher Than High’ below – directed and edited by Scott Wardell; filmed by

Paul Hollingsworth at KK’s Steel Mill.

Throughout Closer To The Sun, Tyketto speak to the listener about true life loves, losses and pleasures. From the title track’s triumphant, anthemic appreciation of love’s power, to the punchy rawness built to make fists rise and hearts race of “Hit Me Where It Hurts”, to the power balladry of “The Picture”, Tyketto continue to confidently stride the same musical terrain as the likes of Whitesnake and Aerosmith, with the added bonus of being fresh to the ears of many.

Joined by Harry Scott Elliott on guitar, Ged Rylands on keyboards, Chris Childs (Thunder) on bass and Johnny Dee(Doro) on drums, Vaughn leads a lineup that brings exceptional performances and undeniable fire to every track, reaffirming Tyketto as one of rock’s most respected and enduring names. Closer To The Sun was recorded across multiple studios in the UK and Europe, including Flip

Flop Studios and the legendary Rockfield Studios in Wales.

In support of the album’s release, Tyketto have already announced a string of dates for 2026, kicking off at

Planet Rock’s Winter’s End festival in Porthcawl, Wales—and with a full UK Tour set for the spring and European shows to be revealed soon, fans should keep their eyes peeled for what’s coming next.

For a full list of upcoming shows and tickets visit: tyketto.com

Band Line-Up:

DANNY VAUGHN – Lead & backing vocals, acoustic & electric guitars, harmonica, keyboards and percussion

CHRIS CHILDS – Bass Guitar, percussion, keyboards, backing vocals

JOHNNY DEE – Drums, percussion, backing vocals

HARRY SCOTT ELLIOTT – Lead and rhythm electric guitars, percussion, backing vocals

GED RYLANDS – Keyboards, percussion, backing vocals

Follow Tyketto:

www.facebook.com/TykettoTheOfficial/

www.instagram.com/tykettoofficial

www.tyketto.com

www.youtube.com/@TykettoOfficial

Maddox Batson Shares the Spirit of the Season with 'Home For The Holidays' Bundle

On the heels of announcing his worldwide tour for early 2026, Maddox Batson releases his Home For The Holidays bundle with two renditions of Christmas staples: “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “Last Christmas.” Listen to the tracks via Prosper Entertainment / Warner Records here.
 
Batson is also set to take the stage at the Opry Country Christmas show on Sunday, Nov. 30; the 15-year-old singer/songwriter made his Grand Ole Opry debut on March 26, 2025. Tickets are available for purchase for the Opry Country Christmas show here
 
“Christmas is HUGE at my house. We’re the family that puts the tree up early, watches Elf and Home Alone on repeat and blasts Christmas music like it’s our job! It’s always been my favorite holiday – the one that takes me back to going over to my Nana and Papa’s house and spending quality time with my family,” says Batson. “This year, I wanted to put my own spin on two of my all-time favorites – ‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas’ and ‘Last Christmas.’ Hope y’all love ’em as much as I loved making ’em. Happy Holidays and see you out there on the road in 2026!”
 
In the midst of offering fans new tracks for the holiday season, Batson also announced his 2026 worldwide tour. The tour kicks off in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on Feb. 17, 2026 and includes coast-to-coast U.S. shows along with Canadian and European dates. Baylee Lynn, Jenna Davis, Just Jayne and Timmy McKeever support Batson for various dates. Public on-sale occurs on Nov. 14 at 12 p.m. local time via MaddoxBatson.com.
 
Batson is hailed as  “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, while Forbes praises Batson’s stage presence, sharing “It’s not only his lyrics and relatable subject matter that’s captured the hearts of young fans, it’s his engaging, high-energy personality that shines through every live performance, music video, and interaction with everyone he meets.” 
 
With so much momentum and a 2026 40+ headlining tour announcement, expect more music soon to follow upbeat, sentimental track “Coincidence” via Prosper Entertainment / Warner Records and “No More,” a powerful track that taps into heartbreak and healing with a combination of grit, vulnerability and raw emotional delivery. 
 
STAY TUNED WITH MADDOX BATSON
TikTok | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | Website

About Maddox Batson:
With his Stagecoach Music Festival debut in April and the arrival of his deluxe EP First Dance (The After Party) in May, Maddox Batson was ready to show the world you’re never too young to be the face of music. Batson most recently wrapped his 29-city I Need A Truck Tour and released his new track “Coincidence.” The 15-year-old, hailed as “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, is set to hit the road in 2026 for the Maddox Batson Live Worldwide Tour with North American and European dates.
 
Life is moving fast for the multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar & mandolin), and he’s trying his best to remain a kid while becoming next up in country-pop music. “It can be overwhelming, this life, but I’ve got a lot of good people surrounding me,” he explains. “I’m still just a kid, though, and I’m happy about that.”

Eric Church Unveils Official Trailer for 'Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive' IMAX® Exclusive Release; Tickets On Sale Now

With the official trailer release unveiled exclusively on “TODAY,” 11-time GRAMMY nominee Eric Church offers a preview of the cinematic experience awaiting fans this February, when his celebrated 2025 album Evangeline vs. The Machine – alongside several of his most renowned hits – releases exclusively in IMAX theaters across the U.S. and Canada. A full list of locations is available via IMAX.com/EricChurch along with tickets to the limited engagement on sale now.
 
In a first-ever collaboration among IMAX, MCA, Mercury Studios and Q Prime South, the limited theatrical release is a must-see for fans. The film offers a unique perspective for viewers that can only be achieved in IMAX. The concert includes Church performing his GRAMMY-nominated eighth studio album front-to-back before transitioning into his catalog hits including “Desperate Man,” “Give Me Back My Hometown,” “Sinners Like Me,” “Mistress Named Music” and “Springsteen,” all reimagined with a six-piece band, four-piece horns, four-piece strings, eight-piece choir and vocalist Joanna Cotten. Filmed across two nights at The Pinnacle in Nashville, Tenn., the performance comes to life with IMAX’s groundbreaking 12-channel sound and unparalleled image quality and scale.
 
“This project was never about fitting into a box – it’s about breaking the damn thing wide open,” shares Church. “Seeing it in IMAX takes that to another level. The scale and sound experience is like nothing else.”
 
Coinciding with the theatrical release, Church will also unveil a 19-track live album, Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack). Pre-order / pre-save via MCA HERE, with preview tracks “Desperate Man (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” available HERE and “Knives Of New Orleans (Live At The Pinnacle, Nashville, TN / May 24, 2025)” available HERE.
 
Meanwhile, Church’s acclaimed Free The Machine Tour continues across the country, with 24 newly announced 2026 dates on sale now via EricChurch.com
 
For more information on all to come, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and on Instagram @ericchurchmusic.

Evangeline vs. The Machine: Comes Alive is Directed by Reid Long and Executive Produced by Barak Moffitt, Andrea Dunn, Mike Harris, Rob Femia and John Peets. Church is represented by WME, Q Prime South and MCA Nashville. 

Remaining 2025 Free the Machine Tour Markets, Venues and Special Guests:
Nov. 14  ||  Fresno, Calif.  ||  SaveMart Center  ||  Charles Wesley Godwin
Nov. 15  ||  Inglewood, Calif.  ||  Intuit Dome  ||  Charles Wesley Godwin
 
2026 Free the Machine Tour Markets, Venues and Special Guests:
Jan. 22  ||  Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem  ||  Caylee Hammack
Jan. 23  ||  Washington, D.C.  ||  The Anthem  ||  Caylee Hammack
Feb. 5  ||  Omaha, Neb.  ||  CHI Health Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 6  ||  Sioux Falls, S.D.  ||  Denny Sanford PREMIER Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 7  ||  St. Paul, Minn.  ||  Grand Casino Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 12  ||  Toronto, Ont.  ||  Scotiabank Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 13  ||  Buffalo, N.Y.  ||  KeyBank Center  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 14  ||  Albany, N.Y.  ||  MVP Arena  ||  Ella Langley
Feb. 19  ||  North Little Rock, Ark.  ||  Simmons Bank Arena  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 20  ||  Kansas City, Mo.  ||  T-Mobile Center  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 21  ||  St. Louis, Mo.  ||  Enterprise Center  ||  49 Winchester
Feb. 26  ||  Tulsa, Okla.  ||  BOK Center  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Feb. 27  ||  Fort Worth, Texas  ||  Dickies Arena  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Feb. 28  ||  Austin, Texas  ||  Moody Center  ||  Stephen Wilson Jr.
Mar. 5  ||  Knoxville, Tenn.  ||  Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 6  ||  Greensboro, N.C.  ||  First Horizon Coliseum  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 7  ||  North Charleston, S.C.  ||  North Charleston Coliseum  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 19  ||  Birmingham, Ala.  ||  Legacy Arena at the BJCC  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 20  ||  Atlanta, Ga.  ||  State Farm Arena  ||  49 Winchester
Mar. 27  ||  Hollywood, Fla.  ||  Hard Rock Live  ||  Kashus Culpepper
Apr. 3  ||  Greenville, S.C.  ||  Bon Secours Wellness Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 4  ||  Charlotte, N.C.  ||  Spectrum Center  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 10  ||  Jacksonville, Fla.  ||  VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde
Apr. 11  ||  Tampa, Fla.  ||  Benchmark International Arena  ||  Ashley McBryde

Singer-Songwriter Kaitlin Butts Releases New 'Yeehaw Sessions' EP

Acclaimed Nashville-based singer, songwriter and performer Kaitlin Butts continues a banner year with the release of her highly anticipated new EP, Yeehaw Sessions, available today via Republic Records. The project marks Butts’ first release since signing with the major label, and it captures the Oklahoma native at her most playful, soulful, and self-assured yet. Listen to Yeehaw Sessions HERE

Butts gave fans an early taste of the collection late last month with her reflective and emotionally charged rendition of the Jimmy Eat World classic “The Middle,” which has already earned widespread acclaim. Garden & Gun hailed it as “the cover you didn’t know you needed” while Billboard praised it as “Must Hear” and noted, Butts’ version comes across as tender, wise, and thoughtful” while Saving Country Music added, “Leave it to Kaitlin Butts to take a Jimmy Eat World song and make it into a sentimental and touching country tune.”

“A couple years ago I put out an EP called Sad Yeehaw Sessions, a collection of sad covers that I have always loved and wish I had written myself,” Butts explains. “After releasing Roadrunner! which featured much happier songs, I wanted folks to know that there were brighter days ahead. So we created the antithesis — something upbeat, rowdy, and fun: all cover songs that I’ve been performing live the last couple years.”

Following in the spirit of her beloved 2022 Sad Yeehaw Sessions EP, Yeehaw Sessions flips the script — this time channeling joy, rowdiness and the electric energy of her live show. After road-testing these crowd favorites, Butts recorded them with the energy and spirit fans have come to love. The EP features her takes on “Red Wine Supernova” (Chappell Roan), “Sin Wagon” (The Chicks), “Tulsa Time” (Don Williams) and her viral smash “You Ain’t Gotta Die (To Be Dead To Me)” — alongside her memorable take on “The Middle.”

To celebrate the release, Butts returns to the legendary Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth at 10 pm to headline a special Yeehaw Night. Limited tickets remain HERE. And watch the new video for “Red Wine Supernova” below

Throughout 2025, Butts has captivated audiences across the country on tour with Sierra Ferrell, Lainey Wilson, Molly Tuttle, Wyatt Flores, The Lone Bellow and Flatland Cavalry. She’s also joined Ella Langley and Brothers Osborne on stage and electrified festivals including Lollapalooza, Two Step Inn, C2C and Breakaway Festival. She was also named to Opry NextStage’s “Class of 2025” and CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2025.

For the latest news and tour dates, visit kaitlinbutts.com and follow @kaitlinbutts on Instagram and Facebook and @kaitlinbuttsmusic on TikTok.

ABOUT KAITLIN BUTTS:
Kaitlin Butts' fearless approach to country music is helping her reach new heights. In 2024, Butts released her acclaimed album Roadrunner!. She leaned into her lifelong love of musical theater and dreamed up a modern-day reimagining of the soundtrack to her all-time favorite musical, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, which ended up on numerous best-of year-end lists. Butts also hit the road hard in 2024, making her Lollapalooza debut as well as opening for Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne and Flatland Cavalry, and trekked across the U.S. on her first-ever coast-to-coast headlining tour.

2025 has been another banner year for the Tulsa-born, Nashville-based artist. In addition to her viral anthem, “You Ain’t Gotta Die (To Be Dead To Me),” amassing over 157 million TikTok views and 67 million global streams, she joined Lainey Wilson on her Whirlwind Tour and was featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame’s latest American Currents exhibition. Butts also joined the 2025 Opry Next Stage Class as well as the CMT Next Women of Country Class of 2025. Showing no signs of slowing down, she just landed a deal with Republic Records launching her next chapter with the Yeehaw Sessions EP available now. 

Annie Bosko and Amy Grant Join Forces on "God Winks"

On the heels of the release of her debut album California Cowgirl, rising singer-songwriter Annie Bosko is joined by six-time GRAMMY and 26-time Dove Award winner Amy Grant for a powerful rendition of “God Winks,” available now via QHMG/Stone Country Records. Listen to their collaboration Below.
 
“God Winks” was born out of a season of reflection for Bosko. After returning home to recover from vocal cord surgery just as the pandemic began, she found herself questioning her next steps. She decided she would return to Nashville only when she booked a gig, which led to a chance encounter with Amy Grant and Vince Gill.
 
“If you’ve ever been in the presence of Amy Grant, it truly feels like you’re experiencing an angel in human form,” shares Bosko of her collaborator. “I respect her art just as much as I respect her as a human being.
 
“Amy and Vince were both ‘God Winks’ in my life, as divine reminders to keep going at a time when I felt lost. In an industry that can be cold and ruthless, they embody faith and integrity. Amy’s voice carries such warmth — it feels like a ‘God Wink,’ reminding you that no matter what you’re going through, God’s got your back.”
 
“There’s an old phrase that says ‘expect the unexpected,’” adds Grant. “In the daily rhythm of life, we all experience moments that weren’t planned for or anticipated; and the same holds true when grace and mercy show up in unexpected places. Any situation can be turned around with even a small act of kindness and love.”

Written by Bosko with Rachel Thibodeau, Jet Harvey and Michael Wilkes, and produced by Trent Willmon, the track serves as a tender reminder that even during our darkest or most uncertain moments, we’re never truly alone:

Featuring 19 songs and over half penned by Bosko, California Cowgirl “interlocks toughness, confidence, heartbreak and ambition, while interweaving moments from her own story of a West Coast farmer’s daughter who chased her dreams to Nashville,” boasts Billboard, while praising of the Golden State native, “Bosko’s creative vision is matched by her work ethic.”
 
“Annie has been honing her craft and building her career with authenticity and style,” lauds Celeb Secrets, as Entertainment Focus opines the project “is a big, bold statement of intent from an artist who refuses to be pigeonholed.”
 
On Monday, November 24, Bosko will perform the National Anthem at Levi’s Stadium for the San Francisco 49ers vs. Carolina Panthers game, following her performance at Chief’s on Broadway in Nashville for the Quartz Hill Music Group Takeover on November 17. For additional information, visit AnnieBosko.com.

Annie Bosko Upcoming Performances
 
Nov. 17           Chief’s on Broadway || Nashville, TN
Nov. 24           National Anthem at the San Francisco 49ers Game | Santa Clara, CA
Jan. 31             REHAB Telethon & Auction || Abilene, TX
Feb. 20            Los Fresnos Rodeo || Los Fresnos, TX       
Sept. 23           The Colosseum at Caesars Palace || Las Vegas, NV
 
About Annie Bosko
Raised in California’s Central Valley as a farmer’s daughter, Annie Bosko blends the grit of her roots with the firepower of her influences—including The Judds, Shania Twain, Deana Carter, and George Strait—on her debut album California Cowgirl, available now via QHMG/Stone Country Records. The 19-song collection, featuring collaborations with Darius Rucker, Dwight Yoakam and Joe Nichols, brings traditional country instrumentation into sharp focus while celebrating female strength, vulnerability and joy. Bosko first broke out with the SiriusXM/CMT favorite “Crooked Halo” and was named a Rolling Stone Country Artist to Watch, later making her late-night debut on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” with “Neon Baby,” which marked her first charting single at Country radio. She has written songs recorded by Willie Nelson and Jessica Simpson, toured with Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton, and sold out Los Angeles’ famed Troubadour. She will join Dolly Parton for Dolly: Live in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on September 23, 2026.
 

AnnieBosko.com | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | X

DAVID ELLEFSON – BASSTORY: Performance, Stories & Legacy is coming to Latin America • February 2026! ​   

Grammy-winning bassist David Ellefson brings his acclaimed BASSTORY: Performance, Stories & Legacy tour to Latin America this February — a powerful blend of live performance, storytelling, and an inside look at the riffs, moments, and music that shaped his life on and off the stage.

 

Joining David on this run:

Andrew Freeman (Last in Line) – Vocals

Andy Martongelli & Emanuel López – Guitars

Adrián Esposito – Drums

 

BASSTORY has toured the world with select shows across Europe, the USA, and Australia, giving fans a rare chance to experience Ellefson up close in an intimate, high-energy format. It’s not just a concert — it’s a behind-the-music experience with personal stories, iconic bass lines, and a setlist packed with metal classics.

Ellefson shares:

“BASSTORY lets me connect with fans on a deeper level. You get the riffs, but you also get the stories behind them — plus a badass live performance of fan favorites by talented musicians!”

 

FEBRUARY 2026 TOUR DATES

 

7 FEB – Santiago de Chile

9 FEB – Mendoza

10 FEB – Neuquén

13 FEB – Las Grutas

14 FEB – Special Show Coming Soon

15 FEB – Cosquín Rock

 

Don’t miss this exclusive run through Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay.

https://basstory.com/

For more information on all of these events please visit:

www.davidellefson.com

https://basstory.com/

Progressive Rock Trio RAIBARD Unveils Single, "Postscript"

Progressive rock trio RAIBARD present the new single "Postscript", the title track from their upcoming album Postscript set to arrive in early 2026. In "Postscript", RAIBARD explore the quiet tension between self-expression and concealment. Musically, two distinctive sonic qualities intermittently intersperse and contest each other.  

"Postscript" opens with a gentle guitar melody that evokes a dreamy mood. Daniel Gil's warm vocals complement that brightness of the clean guitar tone, and the two melodies entwine before the track opens into a full band arrangement. The stylistic shift sees "Postscript" traverse through dream states and grounded progressive moments, with strings enhancing the textural layers later in the track. The song draws to a close with the same introductory lead melody, revealing the cyclical nature of this emotive internal struggle. 

Watch the lyric video for "Postscript" below.

About RAIBARD:
RAIBARD began in March 2016 in the Boston area, three musicians from different corners of rock who heard the same call. Daniel Gil brought a songwriter’s poetry and a composer’s ear. Phil MacKay arrived with a drummer’s intuition and a love of pulse. Greg Dellaria carried the weight and warmth that only a bassist who has lived in heavy music can summon. Together they set out to build songs that lift the listener. The goal was simple and stubborn. Make music that feels like an internal elevation. Offer an alternative to the hyper technological churn and return people to presence.

The sound they forged is rooted in alternative and progressive rock. You can hear the charge of LED ZEPPELIN and DEEP PURPLE, the adventurous spirit of RUSH and KANSAS, the acoustic intimacy that runs through JETHRO TULL and GOMEZ, the grand contours that fans of KING CRIMSON and THE GATHERING recognize. Listeners have compared the band to PEARL JAM, TALKING HEADS, DINOSAUR JR., SOUNDGARDEN, and RUSH, yet RAIBARD lands in its own space. Earth toned. Melodic. Unafraid of risk. Never a nostalgia trip.

That identity comes from process. The trio practices daily on their own, writes through open ended explorations, then meets weekly to do both hard work and flow work. One rehearsal is spent solving problems and tightening parts. The next leans into the moment to let the music breathe. Onstage the band is focused and quietly intense. Interaction happens between songs, and during them the communication moves inward. The energy stays high, the execution stays honest, and the chemistry stays locked.

Key songs have become touchstones for fans. “Angel of the Clockwork” twists from hushed reflection to sky opening release. “Dark Realm of the Daylight” paints in shadow and brass light. “Forest of Song” is a slow build that rewards patience. “The False Prophet” carries a warning and a wall of sound. On the current album, Postscript, “Still Your Name” expands the palette with a guest turn from keyboardist Jeff Kolter.

The three members broaden the canvas beyond RAIBARD as well. Greg plays in OXBLOOD FORGE. Greg and Phil both cut their teeth in ICHABOD. Daniel is also a classical composer whose work has been released on record, and his string quartet earned first round consideration in the 66th Grammy Awards for Contemporary Classical Composition. Those threads feed back into the band, adding grit, scope, and nuance.

RAIBARD writes for people who still crave direct sound and real ideas. The music asks you to set the news cycle down, to loosen the grip on strict computation, to listen with immediate human awareness. These songs are built for rooms where strangers become an audience and an audience becomes a choir. Not machines. Not algorithms. Just three players and a shared current, inviting you to rise.

RAIBARD is:
Daniel Gil – Guitar and vocals
Greg Dellaria – Bass
Phil MacKay – Drums and percussion

Connect with RAIBARD:
Website: https://raibard.com
Bandcamp: https://raibard.bandcamp.com
Store: https://raibard.com/collections/all
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raibard
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raibard
X (Twitter): https://x.com/raibardband
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raibard8886

George Strait Adds a Second Night in Lubbock, Texas for 2026

Due to overwhelming demand, country music icon George Strait has added a second in-the-round stadium show in Lubbock, Texas at Jones AT&T Stadium on Friday, April 24, 2026, in addition to his previously announced performance on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

The newly added Friday night show will feature special guests GRAMMY and CMA Award nominee Zach Top and multi-platinum singer, songwriter and producer Dylan Gossett, while Saturday’s previously announced show will feature fellow Texas natives, 3-time GRAMMY winner Miranda Lambert and newcomer Hudson Westbrook

Fans can expect an unforgettable pair of evenings celebrating Strait’s unmatched catalog of hits alongside new favorites from Cowboys and Dreamers including “Honky Tonk Hall of Fame,” featuring Chris Stapleton. In fact the pair just scored a nomination for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for the track at next year’s 2026 GRAMMY Awards bringing Strait’s total career-nominations to 17. Tickets for both nights go on sale via georgestrait.com at 10 a.m. CT on Friday, November 21, 2025.

With fewer shows each year, Strait’s limited live performances continue to be some of the most sought-after tickets in music. His 2024 concert at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field drew 110,905 fans, marking one of the largest single-ticketed concerts in U.S. history. In 2025, he performed only five shows nationwide — in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, Foxborough and Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium — each to sold-out crowds.

Of his SoFi Stadium performance, Variety noted, “fans would maintain that the privilege of still having him kicking around is all theirs,” adding that Strait “picks great songs, sings even better and exudes a quiet, uncocky confidence that would make anyone feel patriotic about country as a genre.”

The Boston Globe said of his Foxborough stop, “Strait skipped the pyrotechnics and let his voice do the heavy lifting,” while Pollstar has praised him as “the most worthy inheritor of Merle Haggard or Willie Nelson’s mantle of country icon.”

In addition to his upcoming live performances in Clemson, South Carolina and Lubbock, Texas, Strait will be honored this December at the 47th Annual Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing his lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts. Early next year, he will also be inducted into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as both a performer and songwriter whose influence continues to shape generations of country music.

It’s been 15 years since The New York Times praised Strait as “a country superstar in complete command of his gift,” and that statement remains as true as ever with the release of his 31st studio album, Cowboys And Dreamers. The collection — which Cowboys & Indians Magazine calls “a cornucopia of trad-country-arrangement beauty” — includes instant classics like “Three Drinks Behind,” “MIA Down in MIA,” “The Little Things,” GRAMMY-nominated “Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame” (featuring Stapleton) and his rendition of Waylon Jennings’ “Waymore’s Blues,” all of which have become fan favorites in his live set.

About George Strait:
George Strait is the unambiguous "King of Country Music," with over 100 million RIAA certifications while earning more than 60 major entertainment industry awards as well as countless nominations and becoming the only act in history to have a Top 10 hit every year for over three decades. The Texas troubadour released his 31st career studio album Cowboys And Dreamers last year, following 2019’s best-selling Country album, Honky Tonk Time Machine, on MCA. The latter produced by Strait and Chuck Ainlay, the album quickly became Strait’s record-extending 27th No. 1 Billboard Country album. The Country Music Hall of Fame member earned his 100th entry on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with his single “The Weight of the Badge” from the project. Having already set an indoor ticketed attendance record in 2014 at AT&T Stadium on his Cowboy Rides Away Tour, in June 2024 with 104,793 fans in attendance, he bested his own attendance record with over 110,905 fans in attendance at his “King at Kyle Field” show in College Station. And Strait has proven himself as deft with a pen as he is commanding a stadium of thousands, co-writing some of his biggest hits such as fan favorites, “Here for a Good Time” and “Living for the Night,” as well as the powerful, heartfelt ballad “I Believe.” As generous as he is talented, Strait’s Vaqueros del Mar golf tournament and benefit concert has raised over $17 million for the Feherty’s Troops First Foundation and most recently his Strait To The Heart benefit raised over $7 million for those affected by the flooding in Texas. He and wife Norma also established the Jenifer Strait Foundation to preserve the memory of their daughter and have raised millions for children’s organizations. In addition, every time Strait takes the stage he is joined by Retired Lt. General Leroy Sisco to present a new home to a wounded hero, delivering his 127th home presentation this summer in Los Angeles via Military Warriors Support Foundation’s Homes 4 Wounded Heroes Program.

More at GeorgeStrait.com and online @georgestrait.

SVALBARD - Releases Final Song 'If We Could Still Be Saved'

Today, Svalbard have released their final song, 'If We Could Still Be Saved'.

Revealed two days before the start of their final UK headline tour, Svalbard open up for the final time. On the track, members Serena Cherry, Liam Phelan, Mark Lilley and Matt Francis tear through 5 minutes of heart-wrenching shoegaze and pumelling post-metal, delivering sharp bitter bile and shimmering lush melodies in equal measure. They bow out with the raw, crushing honesty and ingenious musicianship that they're cherished for.

Serena Cherry stated:

"We spend most of our lives unaware of finality. Blissfully oblivious to when those musical notes played will be our last. 

So, when we can see an end in sight for something, it distorts the view. Like a funeral marked in your calendar a year in advance. Appreciation shows it's sheepish face and whispers: 'sorry I took so long.'

This is the last time we will release a song as Svalbard. Its a song not just heavy with riffs but heavy with sentiment, reflecting on our 15 years as a band. It's also a parting gift to all of the people who have supported us. 

Think of it as the metal version of "Goodbye" by the Spice Girls!"


Stream 'If We Could Still Be Saved' here: https://Svalbard.bfan.link/if-we-could-still-be-saved
Watch the video for 'If We Could Still Be Saved' below:

Svalbard's latest and final record, The Weight Of The Maskis their most devastatingly raw and beautiful work to-date, overflowing with mesmerising performances from Serena Cherry, Liam Phelan, Mark Lilley and Matt Francis, transcending boundaries across shoegaze, post-hardcore, black metal and more. Uncompromising and highly charged, the record spans themes intrinsic to humanity, such as emotional strength and depression, to unrequited love and vulnerability.

Order The Weight Of The Mask HERE
Listen to The Weight Of The Mask in full on YouTube HERE

Across a fifteen-year career, Svalbard have released four studio albums, three EPs and several split releases. Whilst continually refining their distinctive blend of euphoric black metal, post-rock and d-beat, they incorporated a few more surprising influences along the way. From soft, mournful singing to progressive guitar leads, which showcased a sensitive dynamic, lending impact to their most crushing moments - of which there are undoubtedly many. There’s been no poetry, no ambiguity - just direct, raw honesty as the quartet have tackled some very uncomfortable subjects head on. Svalbard are heavy in the most evocative sense of the word, with blunt lyrics equally as important as the music.

Svalbard previously shared this message to their fans:

"After much reflection, we have decided that 2026 will be the final year of Svalbard.

Our final UK tour will be in November 2025. Following that, we plan to do a final EU tour, a final Japanese tour and a few more select farewell shows in 2026. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported us during our 15 years as a band. Your support has meant the world to us.

We've shared so many unforgettable moments with you all throughout our career, and we look forward to commemorating our final year as a band with you in 2026."


Serena Cherry also shared:

"From the moment we formed Svalbard in 2011, all we wanted was to play loud and play shows. Every single moment was exciting to us, from playing DIY squat shows to major metal festivals all over Europe. I think we will always feel a slight state of disbelief over what our noisy little band from Bristol managed to achieve. 

We never wanted to create music that was easy to pigeonhole, and I feel proud that we always stayed true to ourselves musically and never restricted our creativity within the genre rule book. 

The support we received over the years as a band is something that I will carry in my heart forever. It's a testament to the openmindedness of the metal community that our sound and our outspokenness was embraced with open arms. 

I would like to say a very heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported Svalbard, it's been an incredible journey and we could not have done it without you."


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