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

December 6, 2025

When the clock strikes twelve, the world changes — and so does the sound of modern rock. Rising rock force Illusions of Grandeur steps into the shadows with their explosive new single, “Midnight”, a cinematic, pulse-pounding anthem that blurs the line between reality, illusion, and revelation.

Fueled by towering guitars, a thunderous rhythm section, and vocals that rise from a whisper to a storm, “Midnight” captures the moment where fear and freedom collide. It is a song about reckoning — with your past, your demons, your dreams — and the dangerous power that comes alive when nothing is left to hide.

Released in 2023, "Midnight" is getting new life with an official release.

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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.

Illusions of Grandeur

12,000,000+ Total Streams on Spotify

640,000+ Total Views on YouTube

57,600+ Followers on Instagram

44,000+ Followers on Facebook

DREW BALDRIDGE ENTERS A SEASON OF FIRSTS WITH SOLD-OUT HEADLINE SHOW, AUSTRALIAN TOUR, ACTING DEBUT AND MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE PERFORMANCE

December 6, 2025

Country artist Drew Baldridge is experiencing a breakthrough season marked by numerous major career firsts that signal a powerful new chapter in his rise.

Baldridge will celebrate his first ever sold out headline show next week, a defining moment that underscores the growing demand for his gritty, heartfelt songwriting and high energy live performances. The sold out date in Glasgow, Scotland marks his first capacity show as a headlining artist nearly twelve years after moving to Nashville, proving that nothing is impossible in a year already filled with incredible momentum. This major achievement follows another career first earlier this year, when Baldridge completed his first Australian tour opening for Jelly Roll, further expanding his global reach and fan base.

Adding to the milestone streak, Baldridge officially made his acting debut on the small screen in Hallmark Channel’s A Grand Ole Opry Christmas, which premiered this weekend. His partnership with Hallmark extends beyond the film through the seasonal hit “Joy To Your World,” a collaboration with Mickey Guyton. The song is featured throughout Hallmark Channel’s Countdown to Christmas programming event and is now available to stream.

Capping off this extraordinary season, Baldridge made his first appearance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, where he and Guyton performed “Joy To Your World” on the Hallmark float just before Santa’s big reveal. Their performance reached thousands of spectators in New York City and millions of viewers nationwide.

“Every one of these moments feels surreal,” Baldridge shares. “I’ve chased these kinds of dreams for a long time, and to see them all happening at once is incredibly humbling. I’m just grateful for the fans who’ve believed in me from the start.”

With new music, sold out shows, screen credits, and a national television spotlight all aligning, Baldridge’s season of firsts marks a turning point in what is shaping up to be his biggest chapter yet. He will continue the celebration this week as his headline Country Born Tour kicks off in the Europe/United Kingdom.

Baldridge is currently climbing the country radio charts with his latest Stoney Creek Records release “Rebel,” a follow up to back-to-back Top 10 hits “Tough People” and “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” his first No. 1 at country radio.

For more information, tour dates, and updates, visit DrewBaldridgeMusic.com.

About Drew Baldridge:

Drew Baldridge is carving out a lane all his own with songs rooted in Farm, Faith, and Family. His 2025 highlights include the release of new radio single “Rebel,” along with previously released songs: “Deserve Her,” “Get Me Gone” featuring Emily Ann Roberts, “Call Me If You Get One,” as well as a moving collaboration with Dove Award-winning collective I AM THEY on “Scars.” Baldridge’s single, “Tough People,” became his second consecutive Top 10 hit, following the RIAA GOLD-certified smash “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” which reached No. 1 on Country Aircheck/Mediabase and No. 3 on Billboard Country Airplay. The song also earned Baldridge honors from the NSAI and BMI, recognizing his outstanding songwriting achievement.

Notably, he is the only self-funded artist ever to hit No. 1 on Country Aircheck/Mediabase with his first chart-topping single via his Lyric Ridge Records label and holds the distinction of being the highest-charting independent artist ever on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. With more than 1.1 billion streams and impressions and 2 million social followers, Baldridge has quickly become one of country music’s most-watched rising voices.

A powerhouse performer and songwriter signed to Sony Music Publishing, Baldridge has written more than 500 songs with cuts by Bailey Zimmerman, LOCASH, and others. In 2025, he toured with Cody Johnson, Bailey Zimmerman, and Jelly Roll before launching his own Country Born Tour across the UK and Europe this December. Named to the CRS “New Faces” Class of 2025, an iHeartCountry “On The Verge” artist, and MusicRow’s Independent Artist of the Year, Baldridge continues to build a career that blends authenticity, perseverance, and a deep connection to fans.

BEYOND THE GATES 2026 Reveals Full Lineup + Day Splits; Electric Wizard, Blood Incantation, Marduk + More Added

December 6, 2025

December is here; and so is the full Beyond the Gates 2026 lineup! The festival is now unveiling seven new artists, completing next year’s bill. Leading the charge are stoner-doom legends Electric Wizard and death-metal prog visionaries Blood Incantation, topping the bill with the already announced Emperor and Testament.

Beyond the Gates 2026 will be an absolute feast for anyone with an appetite for underground magic. The festival is proud to present a lineup that’s diverse, and truly reflective of today’s death, doom, and black metal scenes.

The full lineup and day splits are now as follows:

Wednesday, July 29 @ USF Verftet:

Testament

Nergal + Misþyrming perform Behemoth's 'Sventevith (Storming Near the Baltic)'

Rotting Christ

Spectral Wound

Castle Rat

Imha Tarikat

Thursday, July 30 @ USF Verftet:

Electric Wizard

Beherit

1349

Warning

The Ruins of Beverast

Forteresse

Imha Tarikat

Friday, July 31 @ Grieghallen:

Blood Incantation

Marduk

Whoredom Rife

Misotheist

Saturday, August 1 @ Grieghallen:

Emperor

Alcest

Arcturus

Gaahls WYRD

Day Shift Thursday, July 30:

Sulphur Aeon

Terrestrial Hospice

Concrete Winds

Night Shift Thursday, July 30:

Bölzer

Day Shift Friday, July 31:

Dold Vorde Ens Navn

Vafurlogi

Saturnalia Temple

Night Shift Friday, July 31:

Mortuary Drape

The epic four-day metal event will take place once again across several venues in the heart of Bergen (NO) from July 29 - August 1, 2026 Tickets and passes are now available HERE.

In addition, Beyond the Gates is now launching a special December campaign a December campaign with discounted Day tickets and festival passes. Lucky fans can also win a hotel package. More info HERE.

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

OPETH RELEASE OFFICIAL ANIMATED MUSIC VIDEO FOR "§3" TO MARK THE ONE-YEAR-ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT

December 6, 2025

In celebration of the one-year anniversary of The Last Will and Testament, OPETH is proud to unveil a brand-new animated video crafted to bring the album’s intricate story to life. Created by Absynthe Moon Media, the film offers a visual interpretation of the narrative that has intrigued fans since the record’s release in November 2024.

The animated music video for "§3"returns to the central family story at the heart of the album. Set during the reading of a 1920s patriarch’s will, the video captures the shifting relationships and subtle tensions that shape the storyline, while allowing viewers to interpret the finer details for themselves.

Guided by Mikael Åkerfeldt’s story and concept, the visual narrative enhances the album’s core themes: identity fractured by lies, legacies built on instability, and the slow unraveling of those who once believed they understood their place within the family. The result is a stirring and immersive complement to one of OPETH’s most ambitious works.

Revisit the world of The Last Will and Testament and watch the new '§3' animated video below.

Order/stream “The Last Will And Testament”: https://opeth.rpm.link/lastwillPR

German Rock x Metal Trio The Hirsch Effekt Share "Das Nachsehen" Visualizer

December 6, 2025

German rock x metal trio The Hirsch Effekt present the video for the new single "Das Nachsehen." It's the second track to be released from their new studio album Der Brauch, which arrives January 30 via Long Branch Records.

"Tausend Male hab ich diskutiert. Kein Mal davon hab ich das mit dir."

"The song 'Das Nachsehen' is basically about how I — and some people around me — deal with conflicts," says singer Nils Wittrock. "Instead of talking to each other, interpersonal conflicts are negotiated with third parties. Many people shut themselves off behind their noise-cancelling headphones and smartphones. This stands in stark contrast to how many (especially) men walk around with a great sense of mission — be it loud engines, phone calls on speakerphone or Bluetooth speakers. Sometimes it seems to me that we are forgetting how to talk."

Watch the "Das Nachsehen" visualizer below.

Stream the new single and pre-order the album here.

Since their formation, The Hirsch Effekt have carved out a unique niche in the German-speaking music scene. Yet, despite — or perhaps because of — their elusiveness, the band has captivated a devoted audience. Musically, The Hirsch Effekt have always embraced limitless possibilities. Acoustic, introspective moments —where bassist Ilja John Lappin brings out his cello or guitarist Nils Wittrock returns to his classical roots — sit naturally alongside massive progressive metal onslaughts.

While earlier works, despite their diversity, were still labeled "metal albums," this new record explores paths first hinted at on the multilayered second album, Holon: Anamnesis — the same album that fans of VISIONS magazine voted the only German-language entry among the 20 best albums of all time. Der Brauch can be seen as a return to that pivotal point — and simultaneously as a bold step forward. Drummer Moritz Schmidt doesn't entirely forgo blast beats, but the record demands a new heading. In the end, though, there is only one truth: *t unmistakably sounds like The Hirsch Effekt.

THE HIRSCH EFFEKT ARE:
Nils Wittrock — Guitar, Vocals
Ilja John Lappin — Bass, Vocals
Moritz Schmidt — Drums, Vocals

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY® COLLABORATE WITH COUNTRY TEEN SENSATION MADDOX BATSON

December 5, 2025

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® is kicking the party into high gear with a brand-new collaboration featuring breakout country music star Maddox Batson, delivering a feel-good, high-energy music moment that will fire up crowds on The Greatest Party On Earth tour.

In an unprecedented moment for Ringling’s 150-year legacy, the show will feature its first-ever artist collaboration, complete with a custom remix of Batson’s music, an exclusive song launch and a custom music video showcased inside the live performance.

The collaboration with Batson, the youngest male artist to appear on Billboard’s 21 Under 21, is designed exclusively for Ringling, in which the custom mashup blends Batson’s modern country sound with the adrenaline of live circus performance, creating a dance-worthy moment guaranteed to get audiences on their feet.

“Music fuels everything in this new era of Ringling, where high-energy sound meets nonstop circus action,” said Juliette Feld Grossman, CEO of Feld Entertainment and Producer of The Greatest Show On Earth®. “When we learned Maddox grew up going to the circus with his family, integrating his music into The Greatest Party On Earth felt like the perfect remix of his country roots reimagined in a bold, modern way for both Ringling fans and Maddox’s audience.”

The in-show moment features exclusive video footage of Batson performing his upcoming track, “If I See Her Again,” debuting for the first time on January 2 in Tampa. Fans will also hear hit songs “Girl In Green” and “No More,” all reworked into a custom Ringling-style mix created to elevate the show’s already supercharged energy.

The soundtrack pairs with Ringling’s street-style unicycle act, where performers shred, flip and defy gravity on unicycles — all choreographed to the beats of Batson’s mashup. With the teen star appearing on a massive LED screen, the moment becomes a pulse-pounding fusion of music, circus and all-out fun.

“I grew up going to the circus, so this collab with Ringling is like a dream coming full circle,” said Batson. “Seeing my music become part of The Greatest Show On Earth is just awesome. Getting to go behind the scenes, bounce on the trampoline, climb on the rocket that shoots a performer 110 feet in the air and even try the unicycle — it was one of the coolest days of my life. Now I get why they call it The Greatest Show On Earth!”

Audiences can snag limited-edition Ringling x Maddox Batson merch at Ringling tour stops nationwide. Fans can also catch Maddox’s behind-the-scenes circus-skills adventure during Ringling’s high-energy pre-show celebration, included with every ticket and starting one hour before showtime. Special Ringling x Maddox Batson digital content is also available across Ringling’s YouTube and social platforms.

This collaboration joins Ringling’s refreshed soundtrack, featuring beat drops, live drumming, dance battles, DJ-led moments and chart-topping hits. The mashup infuses Batson’s signature country-pop style into the modern Ringling soundscape, enhancing the show’s party atmosphere from start to finish.

Tickets for The Greatest Show On Earth® are available at Ringling.com/Maddox. Performances begin January 2 and will travel to more than 60 U.S. cities during the 16-month tour. Maddox fans can use the offer code MADDOX for $10 off each ticket. This offer is valid for select seats and performances, with a maximum of 8 tickets per order. The code is only valid online.

Batson’s collaboration with Ringling arrives on the heels of his 40+ city Live Worldwide Tour 2026 announcement, spanning North American and European dates. Hailed as “A young star, new on the country charts already striking a chord and hitting all the right notes” by NBC Nightly News, the announcement follows a breakout year that included his Grand Ole Opry debut, a high-profile appearance at Stagecoach, the 29-city I Need A Truck Tour and support dates for Lainey Wilson’s Whirlwind Tour. Batson continues to raise the bar for his young professional career.

For more updates and behind-the-scenes fun on Batson’s collaboration with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, follow @Ringling on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

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 has shown 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.” Visit MaddoxBatson.com for more information.

About Ringling®
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® is an iconic entertainment brand that has inspired play, imagination, and awe across generations. The Greatest Show On Earth® was relaunched in 2023, reimagining circus arts for today's audiences through live productions, licensed products and immersive content that bring the spirit of the circus to life year-round.

About Feld Entertainment®
Feld Entertainment®, family-owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Disney On Ice, Monster Energy AMA Supercross and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.

COREY KENT AND KOE WETZEL REACH ROCK BOTTOM IN NEW COLLAB, “ROCKY MOUNTAIN LOW”

December 5, 2025

Multi-platinum country star Corey Kent reaches rock bottom in a devastating new collaboration, “Rocky Mountain Low” (feat. Koe Wetzel). Featuring a swampy groove and the agony of barely hanging on, the track is out (12/5).

A desolate Western rocker co-written by Kent alongside Austin Goodloe, Michael Tyler and Thomas Archer, “Rocky Mountain Low” finds Kent and Wetzel careening down a heartbreak spiral, falling from the high of a woman’s love. And before landing in a canyon of despair, they hit every emotional boulder on the way.

"'Rocky Mountain Low’ is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever recorded,” Kent reflects. “It has all the rock and roll elements I grew up on and all the country influences I love. I asked my buddy Koe to jump on the second verse, and he was the person I pictured when writing that part, so having him on the track just makes it feel even more authentic.”

With production by Goodloe, low-down country grit meets the golden shimmer of ‘70s rock, to create an avalanche of soul-chilling angst. A weary vocal blend and the muted thump of a damaged heart join the lonely howl of electric guitars, with no strength left to fight off the pain.

“Corey and I have talked about working together for a while now, and this song finally gave us the chance,” shared Wetzel. “I heard it once and knew it was the one. I’m really proud of how it came together.”

The first taste of new music since Kent’s 2025 EP Poster Child, “Rocky Mountain Low” (feat. Koe Wetzel) will impact Country Radio on Monday (12/8). Despite the single’s wounded theme, the independently-minded artist continues scaling a steep trail to superstardom.

Surpassing 1 billion career streams earlier in the year, Kent’s second No. 1 single “This Heart” was certified GOLD by the RIAA this week, and his hard-driving hit “Something’s Gonna Kill Me” is approaching PLATINUM status. Both join Kent’s TRIPLE-PLATINUM No. 1 breakout “Wild As Her.”

Looking ahead, the Oklahoma native will join Jason Aldean’s Full Throttle World Tour in February 2026 for a series of dates in Australia and New Zealand. Next April, Kent will return to the massive Stagecoach festival in Indio, California (4/25). And in May, he’ll be back overseas for the Highways Festival in London, U.K. (5/16), plus a handful of headline dates in Germany and The Netherlands.

Recognized by Rolling Stone as an artist that is “poised to be country’s latest red dirt star,” Kent has become a decorated artist on the rise, growing from humble heartland roots into a Triple-Platinum certified No. 1 hit maker with one billion career streams.

Rising from the vibrant Red Dirt country scene as the embodiment of authenticity, Kent set his sights on Nashville as a teen, bringing his self-penned catalog of country-rock anthems with him. But after the pandemic coincided with the loss of his first publishing deal, Kent was forced to move to Texas and get a job on a paving crew to pay the bills, yet he stubbornly refused to call music quits, with honky-tonks and dancehalls on both sides of the Red River becoming his stomping ground.

Fast forward a few years and the hit single “Wild As Her” proved he was right all along. An untamed tribute to a free-spirited stunner, the track re-invigorated Kent’s career as a now Triple-Platinum-certified No. 1 at country radio, and the lead single off his 2023 major label album debut, Blacktop. Since then, Kent’s track “Something’s Gonna Kill Me” went Gold and he also earned his second No. 1 at country radio with track “This Heart,” as the song reached the top of both the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart and the Billboard Country Airplay chart this summer.

Kent released his sophomore major-label album, Black Bandana, to critical acclaim in 2024, with Music Row Magazine describing the title track as “gently but unrelentingly uplifting.” He’s also earned next-big thing accolades along the way, including recognition from CMT and the Opry Next Stage program and toured with the likes of Morgan Wallen, Jon Pardi, Jason Aldean, Ashley McBryde, Parker McCollum and more.

Defined by the tenacity and trailblazing spirit he developed from years of cutting his teeth on the road, Kent is now kickstarting a new chapter, taking his creativity to new heights. For the latest news and information about Corey Kent, visit coreykentofficial.com.

Mawiza Release Live Session from Gojira frontman's Silver Cord Studios

December 5, 2025

While already Chilean Grammy winners, this year, Mawiza continued their rise as a guiding force for indigenous metal. Behind their critically-acclaimed new album ÜL, the modern day Mapuche warriors appeared on magazine covers, took the stage at major summer festivals and brought home a LIT Music Award.

Today, Mawiza are capping off 2025 by releasing a special performance from Gojira frontman Joe Duplantier's Silver Cord Studio. Introduced by ceremonial Mapuche chanting, this session features the thunderous stomp of "Wingkawnoam", the towering "Mamüll Reke", earthshaking lament "Ti Inan Paw-Pawkan" and other defiant anthems from ÜL. Fittingly, the band closed their Silver Cord session with a rousing cover of Gojira's "Amazonia".

“I love Mawiza! For their music, for who they are as individuals and for what they stand for”, Joe Duplantier says. “They represent and honor their powerful Mapuche heritage, amplifying its relevant message of connection with our roots and the universe as a whole. And they do so with determination and in the most modern way, with heavy riffs and an openness to new ideas and to the world. A conversation between past, present and future. Don’t give up the fight!”

Watch Mawiza's session Below;

ÜL is available now on Season of Mist.
Order & Stream

https://orcd.co/mawizaul

"In the winter season of 2024, Mawiza arrived at Silver Chord Studio in New York, right in the middle of the Northern summer. We came answering an invitation from Joe Duplantier", recalls Mawiza's vocalist and guitarist Awka. "We traveled light, almost with nothing, the way bands from the bottom usually move. By trusting more in our newen than in any objects, we knew that if the path was true, the music would find its own tools. And that's exactly what happened. Joe welcomed us with a generosity that still moves us, a kind of care for guests that feels very close to what we are taught since childhood in our nation. He didn't hesitate to lend us his own instruments so we could shape the noise we carry inside".

"Silvercord felt like a crack in reality for us", Awka continues, "metal breathing from the walls, the city howling outside, and us walking with the shadow of our ancestors over a faraway land. The north of Abya Yala has ancient guardians; we felt them watching, testing us, opening the way only because we arrived with respect and memory.

"We thank Joe for his honest and powerful hospitality, along with his family for receiving us with warmth from their hearts. We also thank Jamie for his impeccable work and all the people at Silver Cord. Finally, we thank the spirits of that distant mapu for letting us create without losing the pulse of who were are. We returned to our territory marked by a dark echo, a spiritual weight that is born only when the energy of nature and the brotherhood of metal meet in distant lands".

Don't miss Mawiza when they headline next year's Pumapu Rock Fest XVII and perform at Midgardsblot.

Mawiza 2026 Tour Dates
January 10 - Santa Juana, Chile @ Pumapu Rock Fest XVII [TICKETS]
12- 15 August - Borre, Norway @ Midgardsblot [TICKETS]

Lineup
Awka - Lead vocals & rhythm guitar
Karü - Lead guitar & backing vocals
Zewü - Bass & backing vocals
Txalkan - Drums & percussion

Guest musicians
Fabiola Hidalgo (Liquen) contributes vocals to "Wingkawnoam", "Pinhza Ñi pewma", "Ngulutu" and "Mamüll reke"

Joe Duplantier (Gojira) contributes vocals to "Ti Inan Paw-Pawkan"

Recording Studio
Estudio del Sur in Chile

Producer
Pancho Arenas

Sound & Mixing Engineer
Pancho Arenas

Mastering Studio
West West Side Music

Mastering Engineer
Alan Douches

Cover Art
Kata Ulloa

Booking information
Europe: juan@thatmusicagency.com
Rest of the World: unai@cowboymusic.agency

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

Follow Mawiza
Bandcamp: https://mawizakvlt.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mawizakvlt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mawizakvlt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mawizakvlt
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oJP24bXA2fbdVmNGNmCtt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mawizakvlt
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mawiza/1653435953

Rick Monroe and the Hitmen Drop A New Single, “.45” on Their Brand New Imprint

December 5, 2025

Rick Monroe and the Hitmen begin a powerful new chapter with the release of their hard-hitting single “.45,” taken from their upcoming album Southern Tea Bags. The track marks the first official release on their newly launched label, Asylum 1212 Records, created in partnership with TLG/Virgin Music Group and distributed through Virgin Music Group.

Produced by Brandon Britton and Rick Monroe and The Hitmen, “.45” delivers everything fans have come to expect—raw energy, grit, and groove—with an even sharper edge.

“.45” isn't your polished pop-country fare—it’s a six-gun soul-stomper, kicking off with a snarling guitar hook that feels like revving a ‘72 Chevy under a blood-orange sunset. Monroe’s gravelly drawl cuts through like a switchblade. Backed by The Hitmen’s rhythm section—think thunderous drums and wailing solos—it’s got that addictive, foot-stomping groove that demands to be cranked.

The launch of Asylum 1212 Records marks a bold step forward for Rick Monroe and the Hitmen as they expand their creative control and global reach.

Monroe shares, “This new label, association and single are an exciting new

milestone for our band and ability to expand our music worldwide. We look
forward to this new energy and creativity bringing our unique sound to as many
listeners, viewers, streamers and music aficionados as will have us!”

The Band has also launched a new Exclusive VIP Fan List

https://fans.rickmonroe.com/vip-list

STREAM ".45"

https://ffm.to/rmth-45

The birth of the Hitmen. For years Rick Monroe has been a solo artist hiring players as needed and doing the Nashville shuffle of interchangeable bands, but during covid everything changed. In 2020, Rick and the band, with Bobby Perkins & Alan Beeler, were set to have an amazing year starting off with a West Coast tour when the world shut down. Instead of everyone going their own way, they all stuck together and started streaming live shows from their basements, garages and living rooms. At the same time Rick and Alan Beeler started a standing Tuesday writing meeting which eventually became the bulk of their current album. Through some mutual friends, Rick met Malcolm Springer and they decided to track a few songs and see how it went. Once in the studio it was obvious that this was quickly becoming more of a band situation and when Malcolm brought Jason Bohl in, the sound finally came together. Rick joked one night about how the band was killing it and bam- someone said “The Hitmen”- and that was that.

For More Information Please Visit:

LIONS AT THE GATE Ignite a New Era With “Burn The Candle”

December 5, 2025

Metal powerhouse LIONS AT THE GATE proudly announce the release of their explosive new single, “Burn The Candle,” which arrives alongside a visually striking music video directed by Vicente Cordero. This marks the band’s first official unveiling since signing with Reigning Phoenix Music. The track delivers a sharpened edge, renewed urgency, and a bold declaration of what fans can expect from the band’s next era, set to unfold in 2026.

🎧 Stream “Burn The Candle” now: https://latg.rpm.link/burnthecandlePR

With its searing riffs, thunderous rhythm section, and impassioned vocal performance, “Burn The Candle” stands as a rallying cry for unity amid division, a theme at the heart of the band’s creative vision.

Frontman Cristian Machado shares powerful insight into the song’s meaning:

“Burn The Candle is a song about the divide being driven into our societies. Hatred is being normalized right in front of our eyes. No one is immune to it, we are being fed constant direction to build fortresses around our hearts because it’s a war out there, and so lead your ego into battle. This song yells out to people, divided we are like sheep waiting to be led to a slaughter. So proudly we wave the triple-edged sword driven into the side of humanity: greed, pride, lust. I know eventually we open our eyes, but for how much longer will we burn the candle at both ends.”

Of the signing, Reigning Phoenix Music co-founder Gerardo Martinez states: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Lions at the Gate to the roster. With their deep-rooted legacy, fearless sound and bold vision, they embody exactly the kind of creative force we’re proud to support. Their debut album showed what happens when raw emotion meets uncompromising craftsmanship and we could not be more excited to help amplify what’s coming next."

The partnership with Reigning Phoenix Music marks a milestone moment for LIONS AT THE GATE, who enter this new phase with sharpened purpose and an unrelenting creative fire. “Burn The Candle” serves as the first spark of what is to come as the band builds toward an ambitious release cycle in 2026.

Adding fuel to the momentum, LIONS AT THE GATE are currently on tour with the legendary DEATH ANGEL, bringing their ferocious live energy to stages across the country and giving fans an early taste of their revitalized sound.

With a new label home, a blistering new single, and a vision focused firmly on the future, LIONS AT THE GATE are poised to make 2026 their most defining year yet.

FULL TOUR DATES:

12/5 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
12/6 – Albany, NY – Empire Live
12/7 – Reading, PA – Reverb
12/10 – Dallas, TX – Southside Ballroom
12/11 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Midtown
12/12 – Corpus Christi, TX – House of Rock
12/13 – San Antonio, TX – Vibes
12/15 – Albuquerque, NM – Sunshine Theater
12/16 – Tucson, AZ – 191 Toole
12/17 – Los Angeles, CA – The Belasco

Tickets are available HERE.

About LIONS AT THE GATE:

Nestled in the creative heart of Los Angeles, LIONS AT THE GATE features an ensemble of seasoned musicians, including vocalist Cristian Machado, formerly of ILL NIÑO, alongside guitarists Diego Verduzco and Ahrue Luster, whose past stints with ILL NIÑO and MACHINE HEAD have seasoned their artistry. They are joined by drummer Josh Cuadra. Together, they burst onto the music scene with their electrifying debut single "Not Even Human," which rocketed to #3 on the Apple Metal charts, followed by "Bed of Nails," celebrated for its widespread acclaim on Billboard. Their debut album, The Excuses We Cannot Make, launched in August 2023, marking a bold new chapter and debuting on Billboard's Top 100, Top New Artists, and Heatseekers charts. LIONS AT THE GATE have shared stages with icons like LACUNA COIL and NITA STRAUSS.

As they leave their past projects behind, these artists fully embrace their creative freedom and fresh inspiration. Machado's vocals are at their peak, masterfully blending grace and aggression, while the expert instrumentation of Verduzco, Luster, and Cuadra add dynamic layers and enhance the emotional impact of each note. The band maintains its signature heavy dynamics, anchored by powerful choruses that perfectly complement the robust rhythms of their music.

LIONS AT THE GATE is:

Cristian Machado — vocals
Diego Verduzco — rhythm guitar
Ahrue Luster — lead guitar
Josh Cuadra — drums / percussion

Connect with LIONS AT THE GATE:

Official Website
Instagram
Youtube
Tiktok
Twitch
Facebook
Twitter
Spotify
Apple Music
Deezer
Amazon Music
Tidal

SLIK HELVETIKA RETURN WITH NEW SINGLE, "SOLAR HEAD"

December 5, 2025

One of the heaviest bands to emerge from the Philadelphia rock scene is certainly Slik Helvetika. Who, will be returning on December 5, 2025 with a brand new single, "Solar Head" – which serves as a preview concerning what to expect from the band's 2026 full-length, 'Walk Through Fire,' which will be released through Deko Entertainment.

"'Solar Head' begins with an unsettling actual recording of solar wind, then erupts into full ass kicking mode," explains the group's long-time singer/guitarist/songwriter Michael Myers. "The song is written about a mass coronal ejection large enough to engulf all in its path. A mass extinction level event."

"What if this event's energy had a consciousness? Let's talk about that. Better yet, let's write a full throttle heavy metal anthem around this this extinction level event with the tongue in cheek placement of some very aggressive cliches and lyrics! The Atomic Killpig rules this world!”

Check out the visualizer for “Solar Head” below;

To pre-save on Spotify or pre-add on Apple Music, visit: https://push.fm/ps/trxojc5l

To pre-order, visit: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/inthesquare/slik-helvetika

From the glory days of the Philadelphia and New Jersey rock scene of the 80s that spawned Cinderella, Britny Fox, Pretty Poison, John Eddie, and an entire laundry list of artists who went forward to be stars, there was a band called Destroyer. These boys in Destroyer were *ssholes. Too young, bad attitudes, but really good, great songs, and ultra entertaining.

Going wide open full throttle, it would take them some time before they were a commodity that a record company of that day would even consider. Even though their self-released EP sold out of multiple pressings. When that glorious day came, there was a flash bulletin....“Sorry, grunge ate your genre”.

Led by Myers, the band had unknowingly sidestepped all the woes and pressures of being “that commodity” and unwanted influences. Taking some time to let the songs and playing develop to be the best it could resulted in that band today called Slik Helvetika. Lots of driving energy, melody, memorable chorus hooks, great playing and strong lyrics. Yes, it is a reincarnation of Destroyer with bigger balls, but incredibly tastefully done.

The line up has always featured Michael Myers on lead guitar and vocals – who has had the privilege of playing alongside a variety of talented musicians, such as Kjell Benner [formerly of Quiet Riot] Vern Parsons [Greg Howe]. Slik Helvetika and Destroyer have had the pleasure of sharing the stage with Cinderella, Trixter, Savatage, EZO, Kingdom Come, Malice, Foghat, Rick Derringer, Funny Money, [Kix side project], Krokus, Manowar, John 5 and many more.

And on December 5th, Myers and co. will prove once again that they are one of the most ferocious rock bands to ever come out of the Philly scene, with the arrival of "Solar Head."

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:

slikhelvetika.com

THE HUNT Unleashes Epic Music Video for Searing New Single, "Adapt"

December 5, 2025

Melodic death metal outfit THE HUNT is rapidly establishing itself as a rising star, gripping metal fans with the searing music prowess of their first two singles, "Erratic" and "Onslaught." Now, the band is closing out this formative year with another unrelenting anthem, "Adapt," which can be found along with an epic performance video Below. The video was directed by Thomas Mignone with assistant director Gabriel Connor.

THE HUNT frontman Tony Rauser comments, "'Adapt' is about finding a path forward in desperate times. It's a song for someone at their absolute lowest point. It's meant to remind you that your spirit is strong, the wind will turn, and you will overcome."

Influenced by iconic bands across the genre like At The Gates, In Flames, Children Of Bodom, and others, The Hunt brings a unique blend of memorable guitar riffs, victorious melodies, and aggressive, dynamic vocal interplay to the stage.

The single is the precursor to a forthcoming EP from the band, for which more will be revealed soon... stay tuned! In the meantime, stream their new music HERE.

The Hunt is a Melodic Death Metal band originally from Redwood City, California, known regionally for their unique blend of Bay Area attitude with classic Gothenburg-style Melodeath.

Formed in 2016, the band is fronted by Tony Rauser, features world class lead guitarist Cameron Stucky (Darkness Everywhere, Crepuscle, Sea in the Sky), Jacob Lauing (Phantom Code, ex-Terrestria) on drums / backing vocals and Dan Saltzman (Illucinus, Fleshspoil) on bass. Influenced by iconic bands across the genre like At The Gates, In Flames, Children Of Bodom, and others, The Hunt brings a unique blend of intense guitar riffs, victorious melodies, and aggressive, dynamic vocal interplay to the stage.

The Hunt's lyrics often explore themes of survival, death, triumph, the human experience, and much more."

THE HUNT Lineup:

Tony Rauser (Vocals / Guitar)

Cameron Stucky (Lead Guitar / Backing Vocals)

Dan Saltzman (Bass / Backing Vocals)

Jacob Lauing (Drums / Backing Vocals)

Mixed and Mastered by Julian Gargiulo

Links:

BEYOND THE BLACK - Release Video For Brand New Single 'Ravens'

December 5, 2025

Symphonic metal sensation BEYOND THE BLACK are happy to share the fifth single from their eagerly awaited upcoming studio album, Break The Silence, which is due to be released on January 9th, 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records.

The deeply emotional song 'Ravens' focuses on unity, loyalty and resilience. Rising together through darkness, bound by shared spirit and freedom, symbolized by ravens soaring high. Both the song and the video feature guest appearances & contributions by BEYOND THE BLACK fans, further underlining one of the core themes of the album: overcoming interpersonal communication barriers and connecting people.

Singer Jennifer Haben commented:
“‘Ravens’ is about belonging — about finding light in others when everything feels disconnected. Hearing our fans’ voices on this song made that message real in the most beautiful way."

"This song was created with our fans at its heart. A very special thank you to you, our RAVENS, for being part of recording this song and bringing it to life with us."

BEYOND THE BLACK's sixth full length Break The Silence is a concept album rooted in melodic metal with ethno influences, it explores themes of communication, inner strength, resilience and the urgent need to reconnect in a divided world. Tracks like 'Let There Be Rain', '(La Vie Est Un) Cinéma', 'Ravens' and 'The Flood' examine how words – and their absence – shape our reality. It’s an emotional, multi-layered experience that mirrors today’s complex world and invites fans to be part of this new chapter.

PRE-ORDER / PRE-SAVE THE NEW ALBUM BREAK THE SILENCE:
https://beyondtheblack.bfan.link/break-the-silence-album

LISTEN TO 'RAVENS':
https://beyondtheblack.bfan.link/ravens

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR 'RAVENS' Below;

About BEYOND THE BLACK:

German symphonic metal band BEYOND THE BLACK have become one of the most exciting forces in modern symphonic metal, carving an impressive path since their formation. It started with their debut album in 2015: Songs Of Love And Death was an instant success and stayed strong in the German Top15 for weeks, earning the Metal Hammer Award for “Best Debut.” Its successor Lost In Forever (2016) entered the German charts at #4 and paved the way for a major tour through Germany, the UK, Russia and Japan. Since their live debut in 2014, the band has played the world’s biggest metal festivals like Wacken Open Air and supported international metal acts such as AEROSMITH, KORN, SCORPIONS, SAXON, and WITHIN TEMPTATION.

With the release of their third album Heart Of The Hurricane, BEYOND THE BLACK launched their first European headline tour in fall 2019 – over 20 shows in 10 countries, most of them sold out. The band returned to the studio soon after and in June 2020 released the highly anticipated Horizons, which entered the German album charts at #3 (CH #6, AT #16, BE #53).

After the pandemic-induced break, BEYOND THE BLACK came back stronger than ever: Following a successful European tour in fall 2022, their self-titled fifth album BEYOND THE BLACK dropped in January 2023, charting in several countries (DE #2, UK #2 Rock, CH #6, AT #12, SE #12, US #7 Top New Artist) and marking a new career high.

Following a powerful festival summer, the band toured Australia and New Zealand for the first time in late 2023, as special guests of Swedish metal act THE HALO EFFECT. In early 2024, BEYOND THE BLACK played their most successful European headline tour to date – Dancing In The Dark – followed by more celebrated shows across the continent that summer.

In early 2025, the band reached another milestone with their first-ever Latin America tour, playing headline shows in Argentina, Chile and Mexico, as well as performing at Brazil’s renowned Bangers Open Air. During the Summer of 2025, they have once again conquered the stages of Europe’s most prestigious festivals, including Wacken Open Air, Hellfest and Graspop.

The excitement continues as BEYOND THE BLACK launch their next European headline tour, Rising High, kicking off in January 2026, tied with the release of their highly anticipated sixth studio album Break The Silence.

Minute After Midnight Shares "GHOST (Reimagined) Video

December 5, 2025

FEARLESS RECORDS recently welcomed MINUTE AFTER MIDNIGHT to the label's global roster. Minute After Midnight is the brainchild of Derrick Ryan, having sprouted from the fertile musical grounds of Nashville in 2016.

Today, MAM shares the video for the re-imagined version of his previously released hit single "GHOST (Reimagined)," which was accrued 8 million streams thus far.

Watch it Below.

"The song that once shattered your heart now rises anew —reimagined, reborn. An orchestral piano version of 'GHOST', where strings and a timeless cello bleed through every note, each one a cry from the afterlife. A haunting new vocal drifts between redemption and sorrow, echoing into infinity — the sound of what was lost becoming the soundtrack of what's next," the artist says.

Midnight After Midnight cannot and will not be tethered to any genre parameters. The reimagined version of "GHOST" is a piano-driven, modern power ballad with lilting melody and emo-style vocals that could've been culled from 2005. It's a renewed take on his most popular song to date. Minute After Midnight's heart is on full display, thanks to the impassioned vocal delivery. It's a spare and economical track that leans into Ryan's voice and the pretty piano, but it's hardly simple. The additional heft lies within the subject matter — when all you have left is the ghost of a past love.

Last month, Minute After Midnight shared the video for the new single "MASOCHIST." Watch it here. With "Masochist," feeling bad feels oh so good!

PERMAFROST RETURNS WITH SHOEGAZE - INSPIRED DARK POP Their new EP ‘ Tears & Bullets ’ will be released on 11th December 2025

December 5, 2025

More than a year after the release of their debut album ‘The Light Coming Through’,the Nordic-British post-punk quartet Permafrost returns with a new EP ‘Tears & Bullets’,on11th December. This 3-track release is the result of an intensive writing period where new sources of inspiration have widened the palette, and set a starting point for a new albumin 2026.Formed originally in Molde, Norway in 1982 by school friends Frode Heggdal Larsenand Kåre Steinsbu, Permafrost has undergone numerous transformations over the years.Fellow Norwegians Robert Heggdal and Trond Tornes joined in 2001 and Daryl Bamonte from the UK (who worked very closely with Depeche Mode and The Cure for several years), joined in 2016. Drummer Trond Tornes left the band in 2022 to pursue other projects.Spread across Trondheim, Oslo and Margate, Permafrost's creative process is a challenge which the band have had to overcome. During the pandemic, they held weekly video meetings to plan new songs and other band-related issues, leveraging improved long-distance collaboration technology to maintain momentum. The songwriting process typically begins with one member suggesting an idea, which bassist Robert (Bob Frost) then develops in Logic Pro, programming drums and other elements. Singer Kåre creates a melody to match, and lyrics are selected from a collective vault they have accumulated over the years. The song is refined through a collaborative process, passing back and forth between all four members until everyone is satisfied.Permafrost has built an impressive discography over the years. They debuted with the 'Godtment' EP in 1983, released on a limited edition of 50 numbered cassettes. In 2019, they followed up with the 'Permafrost 'EP on vinyl, later making it available digitally in 2021. From early 2021up until the release of the album, the band released a string of highly-acclaimed singles which all ranked highly in the Deutsche Alternative Chartsand the Indie Disko Top40, where 3 of those singles reached number one. They have also earned placements on influential playlistssuch asApple Music’s ‘New In Rock’. Continuing to refine their songwriting further and to embrace new influences, the band describes the new songs as “shoegaze-inspired dark pop”, showing once again their ability to fuse dark synth-infused post-punk, layered with pop melodies.The ‘Tears & Bullets’ EP will be released on 11th December, on the band’s own Fear of Music label

FOLLOW PERMAFROSTINSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY|YOU TUBEBUY VINYL AND MERCHANDISEhttps://www.musicglue.com/permafrost

JODY WILLIAMS TO LEAD VINCE GILL’S MANAGEMENT TEAM

December 4, 2025

Jody Williams, Founder and CEO of independent music publishing company Jody Williams Songs (JWS), has taken on management duties for singer, songwriter and musician, Vince Gill.

After working with Gill for four years as his publisher, Williams will now oversee all aspects of Gill’s career going forward.

Larry Fitzgerald, Gill’s legendary manager for over forty years, remains as consultant to Williams. Long-time colleague to Fitzgerald, Jennifer Templeton (jennifer@heybuddyent.com), an invaluable member of Vince Gill’s management team, remains as Gill’s day-to-day manager.

Williams will continue as CEO of JWS in addition to managing Gill. VP and General Manager of JWS, Nina Jenkins Fisher (nina@jodywilliamssongs.co), will continue to oversee all day-to-day aspects of the publishing company, a joint venture with Warner Chappell Music.

“Taking on this new role with Vince feels like a calling and a natural evolution,” shares Williams. “My motivation is to ensure that Vince’s career aspirations for the near future are realized and his long term legacy includes milestones he has not yet reached. Nobody does Vince Gill like Vince Gill. His unique musical aesthetic has served him well his whole career. I’m honored to work alongside Vince, and very grateful for Larry and Jennifer’s support.”

“Throughout my career I’ve put great care into putting teams together around our artists, yet it was only recently that I used those skills one final time for my buddy Vince,” Fitzgerald reflects. “I’ve always admired Jody’s vision, organizational, and decision-making skills, and he has an ability to engage with talent in meaningful ways. Already a member of Vince’s team as his publisher, we know his passion is unparalleled.”

Fitzgerald began his career, as did many legendary players in the business, in the mailroom of the William Morris Agency in Beverly Hills beginning in 1962. The next four years were spent working with Andy Griffith as part of Griffith’s management team. His career ascended rapidly over time and in 1967 Fitzgerald was approached by Jim Guercio to create a management company which became the iconic Caribou Management and Caribou Ranch Studio. Right out of the box they found success breaking the band Chicago. Under the Caribou management umbrella, he worked with such notables as The Beach Boys and Billy Joel, and in 1976, while still with Caribou, Fitzgerald co-promoted, alongside Concerts West, Wings Over America, the first U.S. tour for Paul McCartney & Wings. Fitzgerald continued his working relationship with McCartney for the next 12 years and within that time, in 1977, he partnered with Mark Hartley to establish Fitzgerald Hartley Management. Over the course of the next 42 years, he managed the careers of Glenn Frey, Toto, Rufus and Chaka Khan, Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley, The Brothers Johnson, of course Vince Gill, and countless others. In 2019, he dissolved Fitzgerald Hartley and opened Hey Buddy Management, with Gill as its sole client. After six decades in the entertainment business, Fitzgerald has accrued great respect and loyalty among his peers. He looks forward to spending retirement with his family, and as much time as possible on his beloved Bacon Creek Ranch in the mountains of Idaho.

Williams, a long-time publishing figurehead in Nashville, previously held posts as VP, Creative for BMI, President of MCA Music Nashville, and his previous independent publishing company Jody Williams Music. He is former Chairman of the Board of the Country Music Association. Currently, he is Board Chairman of The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, as well as a trustee.

The new management entity is called Little Guitar Management. Reach Williams at jody@littleguitarmgmt.com. Williams retains jody@jodywilliamssongs.co for publishing business.

DUSTIN LYNCH’S FUNDRAISING EFFORTS FROM SOLD-OUT TENTH ANNUAL HOMETOWN BENEFIT SHOW AID EDUCATION

December 4, 2025

Hosting his annual DUSTIN LYNCH AND FRIENDS BENEFIT CONCERT at his former high school, Tullahoma High School, for the tenth year on Tuesday night (12/2), Tullahoma, TN-native Dustin Lynch raised over $32K for two local organizations making a direct impact on children and families in Coffee County: Bel Aire PTO Inclusive Playground, which is raising funds to build the school’s first inclusive playground for special needs children, and Isaiah 117 House, which provides a safe, comforting home environment for children awaiting foster placement. Likewise, toys were collected for Toys for Tots for the area. The evening also featured special guest appearances from hit songwriters Ben Johnson, Josh Thompson, and Austin Shawn.

Fresh off a landmark year that delivered his milestone 10th #1 with “Chevrolet (feat. Jelly Roll),” Lynch continued his run of high-impact moments throughout 2025. Currently co-headlining the nationwide TWO FOR THE ROAD TOUR with Scotty McCreery, the MULTI-PLATINUM entertainer is performing to packed audiences across the country with a career-spanning set that blends his signature hits, new music like his current Country radio single “Easy To Love,” and newly expanded influences. Earlier this year, Lynch made history as the first country artist to secure a Wynn Nightlife residency in Las Vegas, where his high-energy club sets spotlighted dance-driven remixes from his Club Set Remixes EP, reimagined by top EDM producers including MOONLGHT and MC4D. He further pushed genre boundaries with his first-ever original EDM collaboration, “Home To You” with MC4D, introducing his unmistakable country tone to the global dance space.

Showcasing his versatility across platforms, Lynch also made a buzzed-about appearance on CBS’ The Road, joining Keith Urban as his on-stage partner and co-mentor during the Tulsa, Oklahoma episode. Stepping in for Blake Shelton, Lynch offered real-time performance insight to the top seven contestants, earning praise for elevating the competition with sharp, grounded artist-to-artist feedback, from calling standout group numbers a “10 out of 10” to championing contestant Adam Sanders and identifying the night’s strongest original performance. His role on the episode marked one of the season’s most memorable guest appearances and reinforced his continued influence within the format.

Capping a defining year, Lynch was also recognized during CMA Week at the 2025 BMI Country Awards, where “Chevrolet (feat. Jelly Roll)” was honored among the year’s 50 most-performed country songs. The recognition places Lynch alongside BMG’s standout roster of songwriter and artist honorees, underscoring the lasting impact of the collaboration and reinforcing Lynch’s position as one of country music’s most consistent hitmakers.

BEL AIRE PTO'S SAMANTHA ZIMMERMAN, TAYLOR ZIMMERMAN (DAUGHTER), DUSTIN LYNCH
PHOTO CREDIT: KAI GOROWSKY

Dustin Lynch 2025 Tour Dates

DECEMBER

4 | Ralston, NE – Liberty First Credit Union Arena+

5 | Fargo, ND – SCHEELS Arena+

6 | Duluth, MN – AMSOIL Arena+

11 | Aspen, CO - NHL Alumni Weekend - DJ Club Set

12 | Tulsa, OK - Skyline Event Center

13 | Fort Worth, TX - Billy Bob’s Texas

+ TWO FOR THE ROAD TOUR

KELLY DECO RELEASES “PLACES” FROM HIS LATEST ALBUM WITH EXCITING VINTAGE FUTURISM ADVENTURE

December 4, 2025

Steeped in the magic and mystery of an artist’s life in the Hollywood movie machinery, vintage-futurism storyteller Kelly Deco moves through space and time with imaginary twists on figures we sometimes see in the sky and know in our hearts. The album Constellation was produced by legendary and Grammy award winning music producer Val Garay (Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, Kim Carnes, etc.) and boasts one of the last original artworks by famed artist Ioannis (Deep Purple, Alan Parson, Styx, etc...). The indefinite progression of time from past to present to the future, joins together with Venus, with all the fiery turmoil as a stark wake up call to where we may end up when the past, the future, and political climates repeat themselves.

Kelly Deco has just released the second lyric video from Venus and had this to say about it, “There's a Storm A Comin”. “Places” gives you a blend of sci-fi with Cowboys, Indians, and Aliens, “Take Your Places” and sit down and enjoy another one of Kelly’s futuristic storytelling journeys.

View lyric video Below;

An archive of Kelly Deco's lifelong song writing adventures, the music of Venusspeaks truth of the present world, each song expressing words of reality in its own artistic way. Venus tells a story of life, love, galactic exploration and political climate, which are currently relevant as a continuation of Kelly Deco’s vintage futurism theme.

You can order Venus on CD or LP here: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/kelly-deco

For more information, visit
https://kellydeco.com/
www.dekoentertainment.com
Deko Entertainment–Art Has Value

TX2 Announces Debut Album 'End Of Us'; Drops New Single Feat. Black Veil Brides

December 4, 2025

Alt-rock phenom, TX2 has announced the release of his long-awaited and highly-anticipated debut album End Of Us, arriving February 13, 2026 via Hopeless Records. The album announcement arrives alongside the release of lead single and title track "The End of Us," an epic six-minute cinematic opus featuring Black Veil Brides, live strings, and TX2's most ambitious music video to date that he self-directed alongside guitarist Cameron Rostami. Stream the new track HERE. Watch the music video Below and pre-order the upcoming album HERE.

End Of Us marks a turning point for an artist who's spent a decade building one of heavy music's most devoted, and polarizing, fanbases. With 1 million monthly Spotify listeners, 1.3 million TikTok followers, and a relentless touring schedule that's taken him from opening slots on the Summer of Loud tour and multiple tours with Ice Nine Kills, performances at the Welcome To Rockville and Sonic Temple, to Download Festival 2026, TX2 has turned online hate into undeniable, unstoppable momentum. Today, TX2 continues his meteoric rise as he heralds the beginning of a new chapter with the album’s title track which captures the weight of betrayal, the chaos of spiraling, and the courageous defiance required to keep going anyway.

Speaking on today's announcement, Evan Thomas (TX2) shares

"'The End of Us' is the darkest song I've ever written. It captures that feeling of spiraling that happens shortly after betrayal, when everything you've built slips away. I said 'fuck it' and wanted to make a 6 minute epic. Live strings captured the emotions perfectly. Then having Andy's voice brings a weight and intensity that was perfect for the emotion of the track—he played the perfect character and created cinematic chaos. This song is the lead single of our album 'The End of Us' and features our biggest music video yet. Cam and I directed the music video, and I think made a video that will live much longer than we expected. I hope this song finds its own meaning to the right person."

TX2 has spent years earning co-signs from scene veterans. Beartooth's Caleb Shomo has publicly praised his "passion, hard work, and talent", his track "MAD" featuring Ice Nine Kills' Spencer Charnas generated over 10,000 TikTok video creations and From First to Last joined him on "THIS ISN'T ABOUT DRUGS (I SWEAR)."

The 13-track album collects previously released singles alongside new material, including recent tracks "The Rain," "HOSTAGE (they will not erase us)," "Feed" featuring DeathbyRomy, and "Nice Guy" featuring Ekoh. Between them, these previously released songs have racked up a staggering 100 million streams and 42 million likes on TikTok in the last 12 months. The upcoming album also features a further collaboration with Magnolia Park and an instrumental version of TX2's track with Ice Nine Kills' Spencer Charnas, "M.A.D".

Beyond the music, TX2 has built something even more impressive: the X Movement, a Discord-based community where thousands of fans support each other through mental health struggles. He goes live on social media to answer fan questions every day and stays after every show, sometimes for hours, to meet every fan. He keeps ticket prices low and uses his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and fan safety in music spaces. It's work that's made him both a target and a lifeline, depending on who's watching.

End Of Us captures all of it. The noise, the defiance, the exhaustion, and the refusal to quit. Thomas describes the album's sound as "punk meets vampire-core with an Eminem edge," drawing from influences like My Chemical Romance, Green Day, Black Veil Brides, and Linkin Park while carving out space that's entirely his own and elevating the genre, and it’s fandom, to a new level.

TX2 is currently supporting Ice Nine Kills on their EU dates and UK arena tour in December before returning to the UK for Download Festival 2026, where he'll play alongside Linkin Park, Guns N' Roses, and Limp Bizkit.

ABOUT TX2

TX2 is the project of Los Angeles based artist Evan Thomas, known for raw, emotionally charged alt-rock that refuses to play by the rules. Since going viral on TikTok in 2023 with "I Would Hate Me Too," TX2 has amassed 1 million monthly Spotify listeners, 1.3 million TikTok followers, and a touring resume that includes opening for Beartooth, I Prevail, Killswitch Engage, Ice Nine Kills and Parkway Drive on the Summer of Loud tour.

Thomas founded the X Movement, a community dedicated to mental health awareness and creating safe spaces for fans who feel like they don't belong. He's openly queer, vocally advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and fan safety, and stays after every show to meet every fan, sometimes for hours. He's been called emo's most hated artist and its most necessary voice, often in the same breath. His debut album End Of Us arrives February 13, 2026 via Hopeless Records.

Death Thrash Metal Outfit INTOXICATED Announces New Album; Unleashes Video for Furious First Single

December 4, 2025

Florida death thrash metal outfit INTOXICATED will be unleashing their third full-length, 'The Dome,' on March 27, 2026 via Redefining Darkness! The band is celebrating this release with the vicious first single, "War Club," along with a music video that captures the band unrelenting dominance on stage. The clip can be found below.

Vocalist/guitarist Erik Payne comments, "'War Club' captures Intoxicated’s uncompromising perspective as observers of today’s fractured world. The band likens it to being dragged into fights you never asked for—pushed by forces that don’t reflect who you are or what you stand for. The track channels that frustration into a violent metaphor, exploring how even good people can feel driven to confront the malevolent forces dragging society down."

INTOXICATED is a thrash/death metal band from Altamonte Springs, Florida, originally formed in 1993. Led by vocalist and guitarist Erik Payne, the band quickly carved out a place in Florida’s extreme metal lineage, earning early mentorship from Death’s legendary Chuck Schuldiner. Rooted firmly in Florida’s storied death-thrash tradition, Intoxicated’s sound draws natural comparisons to Death, Sadus, and Obituary— as marked by unrelenting speed, sharp riffing, and concise, high-impact songwriting.

'The Dome' is now available for pre-orders in the USA HERE while it's available for the rest of the world HERE.

In addition, INTOXICATED is hitting the road tomorrow, December 5, in support of Obituary's Florida Swamp Tour 2. The trek will kick off in Destin, FL and make its way through the state until the final stops in Tampa, FL on December 13 - 14. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.

GET TICKETS HERE

INTOXICATED Tour Dates (Supporting OBITUARY w/ CASTRATOR + COLD STEEL)

12/05: Destin, FL @ Club LA

12/06: Jacksonville, FL @ Albatross

12/07: Orlando, FL @ Conduit

12/12: Miami, FL @ Gramps

12/13: Tampa, FL @ The Brass Mug

12/14: Tampa, FL @ The Brass Mug

Intoxicated is a thrash/death metal band from Altamonte Springs, Florida, originally formed in 1993. Led by vocalist and guitarist Erik Payne, the band quickly carved out a place in Florida’s extreme metal lineage, earning early mentorship from Death’s legendary Chuck Schuldiner. Their first run produced a trio of EPs—.08 (1994), Scars (1995), and Metal Neck (1997)—before releasing their third EP, Drain.

Following their initial rise, Intoxicated went on hiatus as Payne, along with Obituary’s Donald Tardy and Ken Andrews, joined the touring lineup for Andrew W.K. in 1999, a role they held for nearly two decades while performing around the world.

The band reactivated in 2019, returning with the Walled EP (2020) and their long-awaited debut full-length, Watch You Burn (2022). The album showcased the band’s signature blend of ragged thrash aggression and Florida-bred death metal grit. Featuring guest appearances from Ken Andrews (Obituary, ex–Andrew W.K.) and Tony Foresta (Municipal Waste), and produced, mixed, and mastered by Ryan Boesch (Foo Fighters, Andrew W.K.) at Candor Recording—formerly Morbid Angel’s headquarters—Watch You Burn reaffirmed Intoxicated’s place among fans of classic Kreator, Death, Obituary, Protector, and Devastation.

Now, Intoxicated is preparing to unleash their second full-length album, The Dome, on Redefining Darkness Records.

Rooted firmly in Florida’s storied death-thrash tradition, Intoxicated’s sound draws natural comparisons to Death, Sadus, and Obituary— as marked by unrelenting speed, sharp riffing, and concise, high-impact songwriting.

Lineup:

Erik Payne - Guitar/Vocals

John Sutton - Guitar

Shawn Clarson - Bass/Backing Vocals

Colin Vaccaro - Drums

Album credits:

Produced by Ryan Boesch and Erik Payne @ Candor Recording in Tampa Fl

Recorded, mixed and mastered by Ryan Boesch

Cover Artist: Celeste Payne

Formats:

Vinyl

Digital

Pre-orders (Worldwide excl. USA): https://shop.redefiningdarkness.com/

Preorders (USA): https://tornfromthegrave.us/collections/intoxicated

Links: