Unverkalt Join Forces with Sakis Tolis of Rotting Christ on New Single “I, The Deceit””

After drawing closer and closer to the edge over the past decade, Unverkalt are plunging into the darkness that’s always awaited below. The post-metal luminaries are still possessed by a cinematic vision, but their new album and first for Season of Mist throws back the velvet curtain in favor of a blackened veil. While wrestling with the weight of our accursed histories, Héréditaire now stands as their heaviest and most heartfelt offering.

Today, Unverkalt are thrilled to release a new video for the song that serves as the emotional pillar of Héréditaire. Fueled by contempt for those content on watching the world burn, “I, The Deceit” radiates strength with support from the band’s Greek brother-in-arms Sakis Tolis of Rotting Christ.

“I enjoy discovering new, unique and compelling music in today’s overwhelming world of information, and I believe I truly succeeded with Unverkalt”, Sakis Tolis says. “This is an exceptional piece of art, worth every minute of listening”.

“‘I, The Deceit’” captures the stillness of those who let the world burn, not out of ignorance, but because it serves them”, Unverkalt vocalist Dimitra Kalavrezou says.

Watch the monumental video for “I, The Deceit” below:

Order & Stream

https://orcd.co/unverkalthereditaire

Héréditaire marks a pulse-pounding new direction for Unverkalt. The album’s newfound heaviness traces back to humanity’s deepest and darkest origins. Each song peels back another layer of collective trauma that’s passed down to us through generations like a disease.

“Our new album is a lament for what is far older than our very existence”, Unverkalt’s guitarist and chief composer Themis Ioannou says. “It speaks of what seeps through generations, searching for an answer to one pervasive questions: What do we carry that was never ours?”

Emerging from deep within Héréditaire, “I, The Deceit” burns like an open wound. With each pinprick of strings, a guitar throbs in pain. The entrancing chorus doesn’t come washing down like a wave of relief but as a numbing agent for our impending doom.

“This song carries the weight of human indifference toward the destruction we wreck upon the world”, Kalavrezou says. “That cruelty unfolds not as a distant tragedy, but as something intimate, almost ordinary”.

“I, The Deceit” is fueled by simmering contempt. From deep within its heavy blackened atmosphere comes a gust of blast beats. “The world falls apart / And you just stand there / Watching it burn down”, Sakis Tolis growls with scorn, standing strong amidst the eye of the storm.

Héréditaire might close shrouded in darkness, but a crack of light does appear in the form of Kalavrezou’s enchanting cleans. “I want us to have one heart together”. Like memories, the cry of horns and pleas screamed in Greek stoke the air as the song burns toward its fiery finish, reminding us of all we stand to lose.

“Even in the suffocating stillness, there’s a lingering ache for truth”, Kalavrezou says. “For something uncorrupted. And in that storm, something might still feel true”.

The video for “I, The Deceit” was directed and edited by Themis Ioannou at RAWBITE Studio.

Additional video credits

Producer - Unverkalt

Cinematography - Themis Ioannou

Camera Equipment Support - Marcus Sander

2nd Camera Operator - Silvio Pelegrin (@silviopelegrin)

Photography - Silvio Pelegrin

On-Set Support - Silvio Pelegrin

Lighting - Hariolf “Harri” Lemke

Costume Design & Styling - Touché Privé, AllSaints, Disturbia

Location - WHITEBOX030

Special thanks to Sakis Tolis.

On Héréditaire, Unverkalt lift the veil on our cursed existence with their heaviest and most heartfelt offering.

Recording Lineup:
Dimitra Kalavrezou — Vocals
Themis Ioannou — Guitars, Keys
Eli Mavrychev — Guitars, Vocals
Joscha Hoyer — Bass
Christian Eggers — Drums

Guest Musicians:
Sakis Tolis — Vocals on "I, The Deceit"

Songwriting Credits:
Comped by Themis Ioannou.
Lyrics by Dimitra Kalavrezou & Eli Mavrychev.
Lyrics for "I, The Deceit" by Dimitra Kalavrezou & Joscha Hoyer.

Recording Credits:
Recorded & Engineered by Unverkalt.
Drums Recorded & Engineered by Christian Eggers at Noir Surge Sound, Berlin, Germany.

Production Credits:
Produced by Themis Ioannou.
Vocals produced by Dimitra Kalavrezou & Eli Mavrychev.
Mixed by Joshua Barber.
Mastered by Lasse Lammert at LSD Studios, Lübeck, Germany.

Cover Art:
Themis Ioannou

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/unverkalthereditaire

Available Formats:
CD Digipak
2x12" Vinyl Gatefold — Black
2x12" ​Coloured Vinyl ​Gatefold ​— Black & Gold 'Sunburst'

Follower Unverkalt:
Bandcamp: https://unverkalt.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unverkalt/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unverkalt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Unverkalt/
Twitter: https://x.com/unverkalt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@unverkaltofficial/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/55vU7DZVwI4ks0NpfKDAvK/
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/unverkalt/15241

FRAYLE Reveal Music Video for "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal" — WATCH // USA Tour With Dogma Begins 3/15!

Cleveland based gothic doom unit FRAYLE released their latest album, Heretics & Lullabies, last fall via Napalm Records to noted acclaim, and are about to kick off their upcoming tour supporting Dogma in the USA! In anticipation of the tour, the band has revealed a brand new music video for album track "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal," which can be witnessed today.

Catch more of FRAYLE's seductively dark sound on tour this month, and see below for all confirmed tour dates.

FRAYLE says about "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal":

"We wrote 'Souvenirs of Your Betrayal' from a very real place of hurt and clarity. It's about facing deception head on and turning that experience into something honest, heavy and powerful."

Watch the music video for "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal" Below:

FRAYLE ON TOUR:
WITH DOGMA:
3/15 — Seattle, WA — Substation
3/17 — San Francisco, CA — The Independent
3/18 — Los Angeles, CA — 1720
3/19 — Reno, NV — The Alpine
3/20 — Anaheim, CA — House of Blues
3/21 — San Diego, CA — House of Blues
3/24 — San Antonio, TX — Vibes Studio
3/25 — Dallas, TX — Trees
3/27 — Madison, WI — The Annex at The Red Zone
3/28 — Joliet, IL — The Forge
3/29 — Chesterfield, MI — Diesel Concert Lounge
3/31 — New York, NY — The Gramercy Theater
4/1 — Washington, DC — Black Cat
4/2 — Bethlehem, PA — Fowler Blast Furnace Room
4/3 — Philadelphia, PA — Kung Fu Necktie

FRAYLE have been lauded as one of the fastest-rising, most haunting currently active modern doom metal outfits of late, infusing their sound with eclectic elements and now reinventing their trademark spectral sonic profile. Merging the heaviness of occult-driven doom and blackgaze with frontwoman Gwyn Strang's distinctively eerie vocal stylings and the crushing guitars of Sean Bilovecky, the band has fully realized their "lullabies of chaos" musical vision with Heretics & Lullabies. Recorded by FRAYLE and produced, mixed and mastered by Aaron Chaparian at Iron Audio (Bleeding Through, Harms Way), Heretics & Lullabies is a must-listen for any fan of doom, post-metal or atmosphere-heavy alt-rock, but also a pristinely phantomic journey for any heavy music fan as it maintains its accessible edge throughout.

Order Heretics & Lullabies — HERE

FRAYLE is:
Gwyn Strang — Vocals
Sean Bilovecky — Guitar

BLACKBRAID Announces New EP, 'Nocturnal Womb,' Shares Music Video for First Single

Indigenous solo black metal project BLACKBRAID is pleased to now surprise fans with a brand new EP, 'Nocturnal Womb,' which will be independently released worldwide this Friday, March 6! To celebrate, BLACKBRAID has partnered with Black Metal Promotion to premiere the new single, "Celestial Bloodlust," along with a dynamic performance video. The video was created by Moshmallows during Blackbraid's recent performance at Kollektivet Livet Bar & Scen in Stockholm (SE) and features many of Blackbraid's ravenous Swedish fans! Watch Below:

“Nocturnal Womb” and “Celestial Bloodlust” were the tracks too dark and visceral to fit the story of 'Blackbraid III.' They exist on their own outside of the album trilogy via a standalone EP, which also contains an acoustic instrumental rendition of “Barefoot Ghost Dance on Blood Soaked Soil." With the EP release imminent, sales sand shipping both start today. 'Nocturnal Wound' can be ordered now via Blackbraid.US & Blackbraid.EU

Blackbraid will also soon be headlining the UK and Ireland from April 9 - 14, 2026, in which he will be supported by WINTERFYLLETH + NOCTEM. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets are available HERE. In addition, Blackbraid has a number of upcoming festival appearances in Europe, which can also be found below!

Blackbraid is a solo indigenous black metal project from from the depths of the Adirondack wilderness creating music as raw and powerful as the mountains from whence it came… 

The cover artwork for 'Nocturnal Womb' was photographed by Darby Lahger.

Creator of Blackbraid: Sgah’gahsowáh

'Blackbraid III' Album Credits:

Album Credits:

Composed & performed by Sgah'gahsowáh

Drums, recording, mixing & mastering by Neil Schneider 

Illustration by Adrian Baxter

Cover Photograph by Darby Lahger

Graphic Design & Artist Photo by Wolf Mountain Productions 

Follow // Listen:

Bandcamp

Spotify

Apple Music

YouTube

Instagram

Shop/Pre-order:

Official Merch Store (USA)

Official Merch Store (EU) 

Blackbraid is an independent artist and is not contracted to or owned by any music label. 

Management: Ashley @ Wolf Mountain Productions

COLORBLIND, If Not For Me, & WINDWAKER Unite For Hounds Of The Underground Tour

Genre-bending heavy hitters COLORBLIND, surging Pennsylvania metalcore unit If Not For Me, and Australian powerhouse WINDWAKER have today announced The Hounds Of The Underground Tour, a triple co-headlining trek uniting three of the most electrifying new voices in music.

Kicking off in the spring at Welcome To Rockville, The Hounds Of The Underground Tour will criss-cross North America as the bands rotate closing slots each night, giving fans three full-force headliner-caliber sets. Fans can purchase tickets on Friday HERE.

With a pivotal year and The Hounds Of The Underground Tour on the horizon, vocalist Travis Moseley of COLORBLIND shares:

"2026 is going to be a huge foundational year for what we’re building here in Colorblind - we’re working really hard to make this upcoming tour our most special shows yet in every aspect. We’re also releasing our debut album that we’ve put so much of ourselves into. Just excited to bring everyone along and make this feel like a real family.”

Reflecting on the band's journey and what The Hounds Of The Underground Tour represents for the band, vocalist Patrick Glover of If Not For Me share:

"Y’all have been asking for an If Not For Me headliner for quite some time. Things have been so crazy between the past couple years of touring and writing new music and we’ve just been patiently waiting for the stars to align, and they’re finally getting close. We’re so stoked to go out on our first ever co-headliner this spring, the Hounds of the Underground Tour. We’ve known the Colorblind dudes for a while now and touring with them always just felt so inevitable, and we’re super excited to have the boys in Windwaker all the way from Australia. I truly think this is one of the coolest up and coming lineups you’ll see this year. Let’s pack these shows out. Release the hounds”

On connecting with fans across North America for The Hounds Of The Underground Tour, WINDWAKER share:

"We’re stoked to be performing alongside Colorblind and If Not For Me on our co-headline tour of North America this May/June. The Hounds of the Underground tour is going to be one for the ages, and we look forward to playing some new tunes on the road too. We can’t wait!”

THE HOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND TOUR

*COLORBLIND + If Not For Me Only

** WINDWAKER Only

May 9 - Daytona Beach, FL - Welcome To Rockville*

May 10 - Chapel Hill, NC - Local 506

May 11 - Philadelphia, PA - Foundry

May 12 - Toronto, ON - Hard Luck

May 14 - Colombus, OH - Sonic Temple**

May 15 - Chicago, IL - Cobra Lounge

May 16 - Minneapolis, MN - Amsterdam

May 17 - St Louis, MO - Off Broadway

May 19 - Denver, CO - HQ

May 20 - Salt Lake City. UT - The Depot

May 22 - Sacramento, CA - Goldfields

May 23 - Los Angeles, CA - Teragram

May 24 - Anaheim, CA - The Parish

May 26 - Mesa, AZ - Underground

May 27 - Albuquerque, NM - Launchpad

May 29 - San Antonio, TX - Vibes Underground

May 30 - Dallas, TX - Puzzles

May 31 - Houston, TX - Secret Group

June 2 - Pensacola, FL - Handlebar

June 3 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade (Purgatory)

June 5 - Baltimore, MD - Metro Gallery

June 6 - Richmond, VA - Canal Club

June 7 - Brooklyn, NY - Meadows

June 8 - Boston, MA - Brighton Music Hall

MACHINE HEAD | ANNOUNCE U.S. TOUR WITH KILLSWITCH ENGAGE

Two titans collide this June as Bay Area icons MACHINE HEAD hit the road with the legendary KILLSWITCH ENGAGE. Celebrating a deep shared history and a mutual respect for the craft, these shows are dedicated to the pure power of the pit. MACHINE HEAD will be performing tracks from their latest triumph, UNATØNED—a record defined by relentless momentum and a hunger to push the boundaries of heavy music. Kicking off June 3rd in Detroit, this 16-show run hits major markets including Brooklyn, Orlando, and Houston, concluding with a hometown show in San Francisco on June 27th. Support across all dates comes from the relentless IRON REAGAN and HAVOK.

MACHINE HEAD Robb Flynn comments, “I’m genuinely fired up to finally be hitting the road with Killswitch Engage — we’ve shared history and respect for a long time, but this will be the first time we’ve actually toured together, and that makes it feel special. Getting back into major cities like New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Albuquerque, Orlando and more with this kind of energy behind it is exactly where Machine Head belongs. Big rooms, big crowds, big nights — this tour is about connection, intensity, and reminding people why heavy music hits hardest when it’s experienced together.”

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 6th, at 10:00 AM local time.
For ticketing information head to: 
https://machinehead1.com/pages/tour

Confirmed MACHINE HEAD dates with headliners KILLSWITCH ENGAGE as well IRON REAGAN and HAVOK are:

06.03 Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit
06.05 Minneapolis, MN @ The Fillmore Minneapolis
06.07 South Bend, IN @ Four Winds Field
06.09 Raleigh, NC @ The Ritz
06.11 Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount
06.12 Boston, MA @ Roadrunner
06.13 Bethlehem, PA @ Wind Creek Event Center
06.16 Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock Live
06.17 Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle
06.19 Dallas, TX @ South Side Ballroom
06.20 Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center
06.21 San Antonio, TX @ Boeing Center at Tech Port
06.23 Albuquerque, NM @ Revel Entertainment Center
06.24 Tempe, AZ @ The Marquee
06.25 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
06.27 San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield 

Following the initial run, MACHINE HEAD will pivot to their acclaimed "An Evening With" format in select markets. These shows offer the full experience: deep cuts, rarities, and covers curated specifically for the die-hard fans. With no openers and no setlist restrictions, it’s a marathon of pure metal. Complementing these dates are high-billing appearances at major rock festivals—a testament to the fact that after three decades, MACHINE HEAD remains a vital force in the present tense.

Because tradition matters, MACHINE HEAD will ignite the final weeks of 2026 with an 'Evening With' holiday run. It’s that time of year when the energy is peaked, the crowds are at their loudest, and we’re all ready to lose our voices together in one last celebratory roar before the year ends.

Written in motion – on the road, in hotel rooms, and across continents – it reflects the raw energy of their return to the global festival circuit after an 11-year hiatus. UNATØNED was recorded at Robb's Jam Room, Sharkbite Studios, and Drop Of Sun Recording between July 2023 and December 2024. The album was produced by Robb Flynn as well as Zack Ohren who was also responsible for the engineering. The mixing and mastering was handled by Colin Richardson and Chris Clancy at Audioworks UK and the mastering of the record was handled by Ted Jensen and his assistant Justin Shturtz. The only exception was the track 'LANDSCAPE ØF THØRNS' which was produced by Flynn and Joel Wanasek who was also in charge of mixing the single alongside Zack Ohren. MACHINE HEAD once again tapped Seth Siro Anton to create the album artwork.

Eleven albums deep, MACHINE HEAD remains as fierce, relevant, and unstoppable as ever.

MACHINE HEAD is:
Robb Flynn | Vocals & Guitars
Jared MacEachern | Bass & Vocals
Reece Scruggs | Guitar
Matt Alston | Drums

More information:
https://www.machinehead1.com/
https://twitter.com/MfnH
https://www.instagram.com/machine_head/
https://www.youtube.com/c/machinehead/featured
https://www.facebook.com/MachineHead
https://www.tiktok.com/@machineheadofficial

Bodysnatcher Unleash "Violent Obsession" Track and Official Music Video via MNRK Heavy

South Florida deathcore mainstays Bodysnatcher have today released their latest rager, "Violent Obsession"(via MNRK Heavy). The furious track is taken from the band's upcoming new album 'Hell Is Here, Hell Is Home' for release on Friday, April 10.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, guitarist Kyle Carter commented:

“'Violent Obsession' to me expresses hate for a person to the extreme. It’s about revenge and what you wish you could do to this person who’s abused you, or taken advantage of you. It’s about obsessively living in that headspace of hatred and wanting them to feel how they made you feel.”

Stream "Violent Obsession" at the link here, watch the official music video below, and pre-order 'Hell Is Here, Hell Is Home' here.

Bodysnatcher fans across the pond will have their chance to see the band on their headlining UK/EU tour beginning tomorrow in Southampton, UK. Afterwards, North American fans can see them on the Chaos & Carnage 2026 tour with Thy Art Is Murder, Carnifex, 200 Stab Wounds, Ingested, Gates To Hell, and Bodybox. The band will also be performing at major festivals throughout the year, including Welcome To Rockville, Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival, and Louder Than Life, which recently announced this year's stacked lineup. Tickets are on sale now at the link here, so be sure to get yours before it's too late.

Chaos & Carnage 2026 Dates:

May 2 - Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

May 3 - Albuquerque, NM @ The Historic El Rey Theater

May 5 - San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center

May 6 - Houston, TX @ House of Blues Houston

May 8 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl

May 10 - Daytona Beach, FL @ Welcome To Rockville 2026*

May 12 - Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore

May 13 - Baltimore, MD @ Nevermore Hall

May 14 - Columbus, OH @ Sonic Temple 2026*

May 15 - Reading, PA @ Reverb

May 16 - Worcester, MA @ Palladium

May 17 - Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Monarch

May 19 - Chicago, IL @ Ramova Theater

May 20 - West Des Moines, IA @ Val Air Ballroom

May 22 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre

May 23 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex

May 24 - Boise, ID @ Treefort Music Hall

May 26 - Seattle, WA @ Showbox

May 27 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theatre

May 29 - Berkeley, CA @ The UC Theatre

May 30 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern

May 31 - Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues Las Vegas

*Festival Date

ABOUT BODYSNATCHER

Hell Is Here, Hell Is Home is the fourth full-length from Melbourne, FL deathcore outfit Bodysnatcher. It follows 2024’s brutal Will Putney-produced EP, Vile Conduct and serves up another powerful barrage of uncompromising deathcore across 10 incredible tracks that see the four-piece—Kyle Medina (vocals), Kyle Carter (guitar), Kyle Shope (bass) and Chris Whited (drums)—turn the catharsis up as loud and as visceral as it will go. 

Of course, that’s nothing new for the band. If you’ve heard Vile Conduct, or any of the three albums that preceded it—2017’s Death of Me, 2020’s The Heavy Void or 2022’s Bleed-Abide—you’ll know this is a band who have always pitted themselves against personal tragedy, who have fought on individual levels against the dark depths of a despair (often inspired by their own experiences of death). Hell Is Here, Hell Is Home is no less harrowing. 

“The band has always had roots lyrically in themes of betrayal, overcoming hardship, and moving on from things that happen in life and how to cope with them,” explains Medina. “Ever since the inception of Bodysnatcher, that was the theme. I do think, though, as the band has matured and we as people have grown, so have the ways to dig into the themes more. With more life experience, there are more things to draw from.” 

Yet while this is still a viciously personal record, Hell Is Here, Hell Is Home is also a dark reflection of the world at large, and its current dystopia. It doesn’t just dwell on what’s happening, though. It lashes out at the way things are with a terrible, violent rage. 

“I’d say a lot of today’s world plays into this album,” says Whited. “We really feel that listeners across the globe can find something to connect with in these songs. There’s a strong sense of retaliation this time around; it feels like choosing violence, fighting back against a world that feels morally lost right now.“ 

That manifests itself from the very beginning of this record, from the opener “The Maker.” A sheer assault of rage, noise, and skull-crushing riffs, it multiplies Bodysnatcher’s intensity to a degree that, even by their already intense standards, is off the charts. “'The Maker' is a raw, visceral song,” says Shope. “Bodysnatcher has always been known for unrelenting heaviness, but ‘The Maker’ seems to be an even darker, more intense direction. Revenge and retaliation are themes we often use in our lyrics, however ‘The Maker’ is a more direct approach. This song is as heavy as we could make it, and I know the energy is going to be electric when it is played live. 

That direct darkness continues throughout the entirety of the next nine songs, from the unforgiving vengeance of “Writhe And Coil” and “Violent Obsession” through to the blistering defiance of “Blade Between The Teeth” and “Survive Or Die.” The latter features vocals from Scott Vogel, the frontman of hardcore legends Terror, a band very close to Bodysnatcher’s blackened heart. It follows the previous impressive cameo on Vile Conduct by Hatebreed’s Jamey Jasta. 

“Scott Vogel is such a pivotal and legendary voice in hardcore and heavy music,” says Medina. “Many of us in the band grew up listening to Terror, so having him appear on a song is huge for us in terms of morale and making the album feel even stronger. We had the idea when we were thinking of another voice come from the hardcore side of where the band draws from; we had Jasta on the previous EP, so we thought of another that is of equal stature, and were able to make it happen.” 

Vogel’s appearance shows just how much of a mark Bodysnatcher have made on the scene. But it’s not distracting them from their intent and purpose. In fact, that only seems to have been refined as time has passed. One of the most obvious examples of that here is “May Your Memory Rot”, an intensely personal song full of spite, venom and trauma about somebody who was very close to Whited. “That song was written the first night we got to the studio,” says the drummer. “It was Father’s Day, which has a lot of baggage for me. I was thinking about my nephew, who lost both parents when my sister overdosed and their gang member father was murdered, and is now being raised by my mom, and my nieces, who lost their dad when my brother passed. That spiral eventually led me to someone who is, without question, one of the worst people I’ve ever known. I was lying in bed angry, so I started writing. That song is pure rage—a very direct fuck you to Mike Whited.” Yet—like the rest of this record—it’s rage with a purpose, rage full of intention, rage with hope still attached to it. Because even though it was born out of incredibly difficult circumstances, both personal and universal, Bodysnatcher’s hope is that people listening to it can find some kind of solace in it alongside all the anger and the rage. 

“I won’t lie,” says Carter. “This was a hard album to put together. Every writing session was met with dead ends for months, but we were able to come out the other side with 15 demos and ended with 10 of the best songs we’ve ever made. The album is based around revenge and not bending over for people. I hope others can hear these songs and come to the same realizations we have while putting this together. Life is too short to let people walk on you or take advantage of you. Humans are monsters who betray, abuse, neglect, murder, and sometimes it feels like we’re too comfortable in the Hell that we’re in.” 

The Ghoulstars Announce Debut Album 'The Dark Overlords of the Universe'

“Evil teachers, a pet werewolf, cutting class for joyrides in the Cadillac that once belonged to late, great Children of Bodom vocalist and guitarist Alexi “Wildchild” Laiho. Meet The Ghoulstars, a fresh - and frightening - blast from the past. Since rising from beyond the pop-culture graveyard in 2021, this skeletal group of horror punks have captivated press and tantalized crowds in their native haunt of Finland without releasing a single bloody track. Until now!

Today, The Ghoulstars are delighted to announce their blockbuster debut album. The Dark Overlords of the Universe conjures a monstrously catchy mash-up of headbanging heavy metal, fist-pumping punk rock and cult classics. Lead single “Too Ghoul for School” is jam-packed with more antics and attitude than Saturday afternoon detention.    

“The Dark Overlords of the Universe is a love letter to everything that blew our minds as kids”, The Ghoulstars mastermind Markus “Daddy Ghoul” Laakso says. “The album is loaded with huge riffs, big choruses, surprising curve balls and Easter eggs from old horror, sci-fi and coming-of-age movies. Holding it all together is our sheer joy in watching all the pieces fall into the right place”.  

Watch the fun and freaky retro video for “Too Ghoul For School” below:

The Dark Overlords of the Universe comes out May 15, 2026 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/theghoulstarsdarkoverlords

Despite their ghostly appearance, The Ghoulstars are a collection of real talent. The band features an all-star cast of current and former members of death-doom royalty and Season of Mist labelmates Hooded Menace, stoner rockers Thermate and Finland’s Top Ten charting Kuolemanlaakso.

What bands these ghouls together on “Too Ghoul for School” is their straight A acumen for all things ‘80s. Like a crossover TV episode, the song mashes together horror and punk into a Super 8mm high school romp. From the high-risers at the back of the classroom, drummer Toni “Ghoulio” Ronkainen pounds his desk with surf beats. Axeman Laakso impresses the ghoulies with his collection of spooky tremolos and righteous riffs. Markus “Hella houl” Makkonen causes a scene with rough and rowdy bass lines, freeing rebel yeller Arthur “LL Ghoul A” to slip out back. “Don’t give me sass, I’ve got the gas”, Thure howls as the band punch into a chorus that will have nerds, jocks and principals all raising horns.              

“Fast Times at Ridgemont High, The Lost Boys and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off are some of my favorite movies”, Laakso grins. “I love the cliched characters: the nerds, the jocks, the cool kids and rebels. They remind me of my junior high school days”.  

While spun off from Laakso’s real-life schooling, “Too Ghoul for School” recalls the records and VHS tapes that The Ghoulstars hoarded as young skeletons. Mötley Crüe’s pomp, the can’t-do attitude of Twisted Sister and nods to ‘80s coming-of-age comediesall haunt its hallowed grounds. Though whipping around in Alexi Laiho’s Cadillac was beyond the band’s wildest dreams.

“There’s a collector nearby who’s come to possess Alexi’s Cadillac. He let The Ghoulstars borrow it for some after school fun. It was a blast”, Laakso remembers. “We can’t wait to unleash The Dark Overlords of the Universe upon the world. As my long-time collaborator and the album’s producer V. Santura told me: ‘The record is unique, catchy and a really fun listen’”.

The video for “Too Ghoul for School” was directed, filmed and edited by Sam Jamsen.

Additional video credits

Written by Sam Jamsen & Markus Laakso

Production assistants: Roope Paaskoski & Kalle Ovaskainen Principal: Timo Kokko

Teacher: Ninnu Huikko

Hypewolf: Mikko Matilainen

Extras: Hilda Hyvönen, Simo Tolvanen, Iida Korhonen, Wicktoria Polock, Nestori Hirvonen, Teemu Savonlahti, Teemu Holopainen, Veerti Saastamoinen, Kalle Ovaskainen, Anni Valokorpi, Pauliina Heikkinen, Kira Kylävainio, Tinja Korhonen, Katariina Laukkanen, Mila Fichtchenko.

The Ghoulstars would like to give a special thanks to Ingmanedu and Kuopion klassillinen lukio for the opportunity to film the video on their premises.

With The Dark Overlords of the Universe, The Ghoulstars direct a monstrously catchy mash-up between metal, punk and B-horror.

Lineup
Markus "Daddy Ghoul" Laakso - Guitars
Toni "Ghoulio" Ronkainen - Drums
Arthur "LL Ghoul A" Thure - Vocals
Markus "Hella Ghoul" Makkonen - Bass

Guest musicians
Mathias "Vreth" Lillmåns (...and Oceans, Finntrol) - Backing Growls
Tommi "Tuple" Salmela (Tarot, Raskasta Joulua, Lazy Bones) - Backing Vocals on "The Dark Overlords of the Universe")

Production credits
Produced by Markus Laakso
Guitars recorded by Markus Laakso and Erkka Närhi
Vocals recorded by Markus Laakso and Mathias "Vreth" Lillmåns
Drums recorded by Erkka Närhi
Bass recorded by Samu Männikkö and Markus Laakso
Percussion recorded by Markus Laakso
Mixed & Mastered by V. Santura at Woodshed Studio in Germany

Cover art

Niko Anttila

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

Available formats
Digital Download
CD Digipack
12" Vinyl Gatefold (Black)
12" Colored Vinyl Gatefold (Yellow, red and white marbled)

Booking info

info@theghoulstars.com

Follow The Ghoulstars
Official website: http://www.theghoulstars.com
Bandcamp: https://theghoulstars.bandcamp.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2Pr3ThFZK0tnUDqDSlMuBX

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-ghoulstars/1872811142

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGhoulstars

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theghoulstars/

Alan Robert Unleashes Fuzz Off + Die Bass Fuzz Pedal

Alan Robert, bassist and co-founder of Life of Agony — a Metal Hall of Fame inductee whose landmark debut album River Runs Red was named by Rolling Stone as one of the "Greatest Metal Albums of All Time" — has partnered with legendary audio engineer Terry Welty to release Fuzz Off & Die, an octagon-shaped bass fuzz pedal designed to deliver ferocious aggression without sacrificing the weight and authority of the low end.

Official Website — HERE

Watch Video Below:

Welty is widely respected for his engineering contributions to Geezer Butler's signature bass products, including the EMG Geezer Butler Signature pickups and the Ashdown Head of Doom amplifier — gear celebrated for preserving massive low-frequency fundamentals while delivering unmistakable grit and power. That same philosophy is baked directly into Fuzz Off & Die, a pedal engineered from the ground up for bass players, not adapted from guitar circuits.

Hand-built in the USA and inspired by a snarling 1972 fuzz circuit, Fuzz Off & Diemaintains mass, punch, and presence as gain increases — allowing bassists to push their sound to the brink without thinning out their signal. Its distinctive octagon-shaped enclosure reflects both its uncompromising attitude and road-ready construction.

FROM THE CREATORS:

Alan Robert explains the years-long pursuit behind the pedal: "I’ve gone through countless fuzz pedals over the years, on the road and in the studio, and some came close to the sound I’ve been chasing but Fuzz Off & Die is the sound I’ve been hearing in my head. It doesn’t betray the soul of the bass — it adds aggression without losing the weight of the low end. Fuzz Off & Die is all about attitude, tone, and keeping your low-end frequencies huge — with no compromises."

Terry Welty adds: "Bass players are usually forced to give something up when they step on a fuzz. With Fuzz Off & Die, the mission was simple — keep the low end intact no matter how aggressive the circuit gets. Everything about this pedal was engineered to hit hard, stay massive, and feel alive under your fingers."

KEY FEATURES:
Bass-First Circuit Architecture — Designed to preserve low-frequency fundamentals
1972-Inspired Fuzz Design — Classic character re-voiced specifically for bass
Fire (Volume) & Fury (Tone) Controls — Shape aggression without thinning
Preserves Weight & Presence — Punch and clarity at any gain
Octagon-Shaped Housing — Built like a tank for the road
Hand-Built in the USA

The first 100 pedals ship with a signed and numbered Certificate of Authenticity, plus exclusive extras including a steel bottle-opener keychain, pin, octagon sticker, and bass pick.

Availability & Distribution:
Fuzz Off & Die is distributed worldwide by Alpha Distribution, home to premium gear brands including CIOKS, Seamoon FX, and Manhattan Prestige Basses.

Demos, pro testimonials, and ordering information — HERE

Manchester music icons INCA BABIES share sultry noir single 'Daniella' New 'Reincarnation' alternative-anthology is out now

Manchester's iconic outfit Inca Babies presents their new single 'Daniella', drifting through smoky swamp-jazz grooves amidst a haunting tapestry of desire, danger, and shadowed city streets. With haunting lyrics and sultry rhythms, the Incas pull listeners into a tense, cinematic world where love and chaos collide.

This is the latest offering from their 'Reincarnation' album, released at the tail-end of 2025 via Black Lagoon Records. With strong cinematic and hypnotic elements, 'Daniella’ brings us through dark city streets, where danger, desire and delirium intertwine.

As foundational pioneers of the early post-punk and deathrock movements, Inca Babies remain a vital cornerstone of the Manchester and UK music scenes to this day. Led by guitarist-vocalist Harry Stafford alongside long-time collaborator Rob Haynes (The Membranes, Goldblade), the band helped define a dark, jagged sonic landscape that remains influential decades later.

During their initial five-year ascent, they amassed a dedicated following through relentless touring, six singles and four albums—every one of which successfully breached the UK Indie Charts. Their status as alternative icons was further cemented by a prestigious run of four BBC John Peel sessions between 1984 and 1988. Since reforming in 2007, Inca Babies have proven they are far from a legacy act, continuing to command respect as elder statesmen of the British underground.

“Daniella” is the third track on 'Reincarnation'. It was re-recorded at 6Db Studios in Salford with  renowned producer Simon ‘Ding’ Archer (The Fall, PJ Harvey), who devoted significant effort to infuse it with a distinctive dub style. The original version was first recorded in 1986 at Cargo Studios for the album 'This Train', which we also released on Black Lagoon Records," says Harry Stafford, who shared recording and mixing duties before mastering by Marco Butcher at Boombox Studio.

"Looking through our back catalogue, it occurred to me that there were tracks that should again be made available in some manner and others that would benefit from reinvention. Last year's 'Ghost Mechanic Nine' album was an opportunity to create new music for our fans, who would like this music in the form of digital downloads and, for the truly hardcore, as a 12” Vinyl Album," says Harry Stafford.

"But it was also a realisation that we could invigorate old tunes. We already had a ‘best of’ compilation in ‘Plutonium', released in 2006, so we embarked upon a new quest, to inject new life into our favourite back catalogue. This whole project was to be an Innovative re-imagining of old tunes: re-invented for contemporary consideration. All of them Re-awakened and 'Re-inca-rnated'."

Inca Babies' journey since their formation in 1983 in Manchester's now-legendary deck-access flats of Hulme was highlighted in the 2024 documentary 'The Making of Ghost Mechanic Nine'. Since reforming, they've released four albums and toured three continents, continuing to explore goth, punk, death-rock and jazz-blues.

Earlier, the Incas shared 'Superior Spectre', a live favourite that was originally included in their 1984 John Peel Session, this song also appeared on their 2014 'Scatter' EP, following the A/B-side singles 'Candy Mountain', with its hypnotic bass line, contemporary groove and electronic sequencing; and 'Two Rails To Nowhere' with itsoriginal 1988 version featuring Inspiral Carpets' Clint Boon and new expanded Gun Club-esque version, featuring guitarist Vincent O'Brien.

The 'Reincarnation' album is out now, available on CD and available everywhere digitally, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Written by Harry Stafford
Harry Stafford - guitars, bass, keyboards & vocals
Rob Haynes - drums & percussion
Vincent O'Brien - slide guitar
All songs re-recorded by Harry Stafford and Rob Haynes.
Slide Guitar recorded by Vincent O Brien
Recorded & produced at 6Db in Salford by Simon ‘Ding’ Archer
Mastered by Marco Butcher at Boombox Studio, North Carolina
Artwork designed by Harry Stafford
from images by James Chadderton Art Ltd. (Manchester Apocalyptic visions)
Album released by Black Lagoon Records - catalogue no. BLRLP0061
'Superior Spectre' video created by Harry Stafford & Jandi Moreno
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with Inca Babies
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Mary Kutter Signs with WME for Global Representation

 Kentucky-raised and Nashville-based artist and songwriter Mary Kutter has signed with WME for global representation.

Kutter writes songs rooted in small-town truth and sharpened by life experiences, blending country storytelling with a rock-leaning edge. Before stepping fully into her own voice as an artist, Kutter built a reputation as a songwriter unafraid to tackle subjects others might avoid, with her work writing and appearing on major-label releases and charting records for Bailey Zimmerman, Nate Smith, Alexandra Kay and Zach John King.

“Mary is the kind of artist who writes and performs with conviction,” adds WME’s Lance Roberts. “There’s an authenticity to her work that feels both rooted and forward-looking. She has already built a meaningful career as a songwriter, and we’re excited to help expand her live business as she steps fully into this moment as an artist.”

Now signed to BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, Kutter is stepping forward as a recording artist with her latest release, “Bed of Roses,” which debuted February 13, 2026. The track marks the beginning of a new chapter defined by confidence, clarity and a refusal to soften the point.

“Being onstage is where it all comes full circle for me,” Kutter adds. “WME is best in class when it comes to expanding live opportunities and building global audiences, and I’m ready to take these songs to more cities, more stages and more fans.”

Raised in Washington County, Kentucky, Kutter’s connection to music began in church and local talent shows before eventually leading her to Nashville. She continues to write and record new music while expanding her touring footprint nationwide. 

L to R ID: Marc Oswald (OEG), Jon Folk (WME), Joey Lee (WME), Adrian Michaels (BMG/AMA), Lance Roberts (WME), Mary Kutter, Becky Gardenhire (WME), Charlie Pennachio (OEG), Laura Williams (WME) and Jacob Summers (OEG)
Photo Courtesy of Oswald Entertainment 

G Major Mgmt Signs Ella Gibson

G Major Mgmt announces the signing of singer/songwriter Ella Gibson, joining a roster of premiere talent, including country superstar Thomas Rhett.
 
Hailing from a small town in central Illinois, Gibson was raised on the legends of country music, and her voice carries the weight of tradition with her own unique sound. Currently studying songwriting at Belmont University, she recently won Belmont’s Spring Songwriter’s Showcase Presented by BMI.
 
“I am so honored to be joining G Major,” shares Gibson. “Already, they have been incredible to work with during our time together. This team inspires me daily with their hard work, kindness and passion for what they do. I am so excited to see all that we accomplish together, and for the new music we’ve been working on.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Ella Gibson to the G Major roster,” shares G Major Mgmt founder Virginia Bunetta. “She’s a rare artist whose songwriting feels timeless and her voice and perspective cut through the noise. She represents the next evolution of authentic female artistry.”
 
With a shared commitment to artistic growth and intentional development, Gibson and the G Major team will embark on an exciting new chapter that will see Gibson continue to refine her voice, expand her audience and introduce new music in the months ahead.
 
G Major Mgmt was founded by Bunetta in 2014, in partnership with Live Nation’s Artist Nation. Bunetta began her distinguished artist management career in 2007 with Front Line’s Irving Azoff, after serving as General Manager at Raybaw Records (Warner Brothers) and marketing director at Nashville Songwriters Association International.

Photo Credit: James Bragg

JASON ALDEAN’S NEW SINGLE “DON’T TELL ON ME” IS THE MOST ADDED SINGLE AT COUNTRY RADIO THIS WEEK

Having just scored his 31st career number one hit, Jason Aldean delivers “Don’t Tell On Me” to country radio today securing the most adds this week with 131 stations coming on board for the launch of his second single from his forthcoming new album Songs About Us. Pre-add, pre-save and pre-order Songs About Us HERE. Penned by Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan & Lydia Vaughan, Aldean is pleading with his heart in “Don’t Tell On Me” to hold it together and keep the burning secret that he is still in love with an ex. Jason's signature guitars drive this release forward as tickets for his upcoming 22-city 2026 Songs About Us Tour, sponsored by Patriot Mobile, go on sale this week. Artist presale tickets are available starting March 3rd, with general on-sale March 6th at LiveNation.com.

Grammy-nominated entertainer Jason Aldean recently topped the charts with his 31st number one single, “How Far Does A Goodbye Go,” and shared three surprise tracks from his forthcoming album Songs About Us, out April 24, --- “Drinking About You,” “Dust on the Bottle,” and the new single “Don’t Tell On Me.” Having cemented his status as one of the format’s most consistent hitmakers, the ACM Artist of the Decade’s latest studio album Songs About Us will be released the day before the Georgia native returns to headline University of Georgia’s Sanford Stadium alongside fellow Georgia native Luke Bryan. The concert marks a historic return for Aldean, who 13 years ago became the first-ever, and to date only, artist to headline the venue. 

Songs About Us follow’s Aldean’s career-spanning collection 30 Number One Hits, which debuted last year at No. 4 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart — marking Aldean’s 13th Top 10 country album in 20 years. His legacy of chart-topping success and record-breaking milestones was showcased on the international extension of his 2026 Full Throttle World Tour, where he recently wrapped his first-ever headlining run in New Zealand and made his highly anticipated return to Australia for the first time in over a decade.

SONGS ABOUT US 2026 TOUR DATES:
Thu July 16 – Bangor, ME – Maine Savings Amphitheater^
Fri July 17 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center^
Sat July 18 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts^
Thu July 23 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena^
Fri July 24 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center^
Sat July 25 – Kansas City, MO – Morton Amphitheater^
Thu July 30 – Ridgefield, WA – Cascades Amphitheater^
Fri July 31 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater^
Fri Aug 14 – Wheatland, CA – Toyota Amphitheatre^
Sat Aug 15 – Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center at Fresno State^
Sat Aug 22 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center#%
Thu Aug 27 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena^
Fri Aug 28 – Brandon, MS – Brandon Amphitheater^
Sat Aug 29 – Orange Beach, AL – The Wharf Amphitheater^
Thu Sep 10 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach^
Fri Sep 11 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell at Jones Beach Theater^
Sat Sep 12 – Hartford, CT – The Meadows Music Theatre^
Thu Sep 17 – Hamilton, ON – TD Coliseum^
Fri Sep 18 – Syracuse, NY – Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview^
Sat Sep 19 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion^
Fri Sep 25 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion^
Sat Sep 26 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion^
^ with Chase Matthew, Mackenzie Carpenter and Dee Jay Silver
# with Chase Matthew and Dee Jay Silver
% with Elizabeth Nichols 

About Jason Aldean
Grammy-nominated, multi-Platinum award winning entertainer Jason Aldean is one of country’s most successful touring powerhouses & influential musical icons of the 21st century. With 31 #1 singles, nearly 20B streams & over 20M albums sold, Aldean’s name is synonymous with country music. Since exploding onto the scene with his 2005 self-titled debut, Aldean has carved out a reputation for delivering hard-hitting, emotionally resonant anthems that blend small-town storytelling with stadium-powered energy. He’s remained a steadfast & defining voice, with a fanbase that spans generations & continues to grow. The Georgia native recently released his album 30 Number One Hits, marking his 13th top 10 country album in 20 years with its #4 debut on the Billboard Top Country Album Chart. His 11th studio album, Highway Desperado, featured his 30th #1 single & garnered his first career #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Known for his electrifying live shows & breakout crossover hits, Aldean's international extension of his Full Throttle World Tour, recently wrapped with his first-ever headlining run in New Zealand & his highly anticipated return to Australia for the first time in over a decade. Aldean will follow his latest country radio #1 hit “How Far Does A Goodbye Go,” with “Don’t Tell on Me,” impacting radio on March 2 & serving as the final preview of his new upcoming album, Songs About Us, out April 24. In addition, fans can catch Aldean on the nationwide Song About Us 2026 Summer Tour.

KEEP UP WITH JASON ALDEAN

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | X

DRAKE MILLIGAN ADDS FALL EUROPEAN DATES TO “TUMBLEWEED WORLD TOUR”

Critically acclaimed Country artist, Drake Milligan, adds new European dates to his fall schedule on the “Tumbleweed World Tour,” which kicked off in November 2025. These new stops include Germany, Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and more. Throughout the year, Milligan will play across Canada, Europe, Mexico, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. A true entertainer, fans can expect an energetic, one-of-a-kind performance from Milligan and his band. Please visit drakemilligan.com for tickets and more information.

Following the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album, Tumbleweed – listen HERE, Milligan just recently released a brand new duet with the iconic Shania Twain titled “I’ll Be Here With You.” This moving, perfectly harmonious track is part of the full The Gray House (Original Soundtrack From the Amazon Series), which is now available across all streaming platforms following the release of the highly anticipated limited series The Gray House. Listen HERE and watch the official music video Below.

Executive produced by Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman and Lori McCreary, The Gray House tells the extraordinary true story of four women who operate an Underground Railroad network that evolves into a daring espionage ring, risking everything to help preserve the nation’s future. Music plays a central role in shaping the series’ emotional landscape, amplifying both the intimate and epic scale of the story.

Having been on the road throughout 2025 opening for Lainey Wilson, Blake Shelton, and Luke Bryan, Milligan is thrilled to be embarking on his own slew of dates including his return across the pond in Paris and Brussels in March, plus C2C Festival stops in Rotterdam, Berlin, London, Glasgow, and Belfast. With the UK being Milligan’s second largest market in 2025, just behind the US, he is thrilled to bring his electric show back to them in 2026. CD/vinyl of Tumbleweed are available for pre-order now and will release on March 13. Pre-orderHERE.

About Drake Milligan

A student of classic Country music with the swagger of early Rock ‘n’ Roll, Drake Milligan is an electrifying entertainer who cites George Strait and Elvis Presley – the King of Country and the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll – as musical heroes, and his unique twist of traditional Country has been embraced by fans, peers, and major media including Billboard, PEOPLE, American Songwriter, USA Today, Access Hollywood, and more. In 2022, Milligan burst onto the national music stage with his debut album Dallas/Fort Worth, which topped the iTunes Country and All-Genre charts, landed him at #5 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists Chart, and was later named one of Billboard’s “Best Country Albums of 2022.” The Fort Worth, TX native has since performed on The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Grand Ole Opry, Stagecoach and CMA Music Festival, and recently became the first artist to perform on an F1 racetrack for the inaugural F1 Grid Gigs in Austin, TX. Following his breakout debut, Milligan earned a #1 Canadian Country Radio hit with “Honky Tonkin’ About” (with The Reklaws) and carried that momentum into 2024 with his critically acclaimed EP Jukebox Songs, featuring fan favorite “I Got A Problem.” He also returned to primetime television for America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League before joining Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan, and Blake Shelton on tour. With more than 270 million streams worldwide, Milligan is entering his next chapter with the release of his sophomore album Tumbleweed. The title track has already climbed into the UK Country Radio Top 10 as he kicks off his global “Tumbleweed World Tour.” 

KEEP UP WITH DRAKE MILLIGAN
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Modesty Blaise shares 'Carol Mountain', previewing remastered seminal 'Melancholia' album

Bristol-based avant indie pop outfit Modesty Blaise presents a newly remastered version of "Carol Mountain", previewing the remastered 25th Anniversary edition of their seminal album "Melancholia". This expanded collection features newly-restored audio, many outtakes of the original sessions and updated artwork in a fantastic new 3 Disc version. Forthcoming via European label From Lo-Fi To Disco!, this release reflects on the album’s legacy and continued resonance.

The newly-edited video for "Carol Mountain" was created from footage shot when Modesty Blaise played in New York in 2002, when the band was made up of Jonny Collins, David W Brown, Gregory Jones, Clem Courtney and Julien Clapperton.

Modesty Blaise have been around since 1993 in various guises. In that year, they recorded their debut single 'Christina Terrace' with Edwyn Collins at the helm, garnering them immediate success with a live appearance on ITV and inclusion among many end-of-year top music rankings. Other highlights include supporting Robbie Williams at London's O2 Arena, inclusion in a Rough Trade compilation, an ITV company documentary on Jonny Collins, and a BBC Radio session involving seventeen people.

Originally issued as a standalone single, "Carol Mountain" reflects the defining qualities that have given the album its enduring reputation: restraint, atmosphere, and emotional depth. Built around huge productions and slow-burning intensity, the track expands the sonic world of "Melancholia" — immersive, introspective, and quietly affecting.

"Carol Mountain formed one of the main tracks of the whole album. It was recorded in multiple parts and using three different drum kits. It’s inspired by Steven Gaines’ book "Heroes & Villains" about The Beach Boys, and written in about half an hour on a Sunday morning. In contrast to that quick writing process, the recording took months and more than half of the entire recording budget for Melancholia. We got orchestral players from a Bristol orchestra and I found a barbershop quartet to come and record with us", says Jonny Collins.

"'Carol Mountain' was Brian Wilson’s unrequited love, I believe. We know that Brian knew this song well and that Brian’s band played the CD album on their tour bus. That was a great thing, and it sounds even better now." 

Originally released on CD and vinyl, "Melancholia" remains a quietly influential work more than two decades after its original release — defined by emotional precision, sonic restraint, and a timeless sense of atmosphere. The 2026 remaster has been completed with a light-touch approach, focused on clarity and depth rather than reinvention. Greater dynamic range and enhanced detail bring new presence to the recording, revealing subtle textures and spatial nuance while preserving the character of the original mix.

'Carol Mountain' is available exclusively via Bandcamp, reflecting the independent spirit of the anniversary campaign by offering listeners a direct connection to the music ahead of the wider streaming release.  On April 24th, the "Melancholia - Remaster" album will be released across all major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music. 

'MELANCHOLIA - REMASTER' 
Disc 1: Melancholia - Remastered
Disc 2: Melancholia [de]Construction
Disc 3: Melancholia  - The Singles

CREDITS
Written by Jonny Collins
Mixed & produced by Jonny Collins
Remastering at White House Studio by original engineer Martin Nichols 
Jonny Collins - vocals & guitar
David W Brown - bass guitar
Gregory Jones - guitar & vocals
Clem Courtney - organ &vocals
Julien Clapperton - drums & cymbals

Video created by Jonny Collins

Cover artwork by Gregory Jones
Released via From Lo-Fi to Disco!

Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

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KITTIE Announce Legacy of Fire Tour: 30 Years of Kittie

Monday, March 2nd, 2026 – Canadian heavy music pioneers Kittie celebrate three decades of uncompromising metal with the announcement of the "Legacy Of Fire Tour: 30 Years of Kittie," a massive 16-date North American headline run launching this June, their first full headline tour in over ten years. The tour marks a milestone moment for the band, honoring 30 years since Kittie's formation in 1996 while riding the momentum of their recent triumphs including 2024's critically acclaimed comeback album "Fire" and 2025's "Spit XXV" re-recorded and re-imagined anniversary EP. Kingdom of Giants and Gore will join as special guests across all dates, creating a powerhouse lineup that spans generations of heavy music. The tour kicks off June 6th in St. Louis and runs through June 27th in Montreal, hitting major markets including New York, Nashville, Toronto, and more. Pre-Sales start Tuesday, March 3rd with tickets going on general sale at 10am local on Friday, March 6th HERE.

Commenting on today's epic announcement, the band share

"We're excited to announce our Legacy of Fire tour on the eve of our 30th anniversary as a band. Thirty years ago, we ignited a spark. Three decades later, that fire is still burning, stronger and more focused than ever. Legacy of Fire is a celebration of every stage, every struggle, and every fan who carried us forward. Coming back to the US + Canada for our first full headline tour over a decade feels incredible. We’re ready to honor our history while ushering in the next chapter!"

LEGACY OF FIRE TOUR: 30 YEARS OF KITTIE

W/ Special Guests Kingdom Of Giants and Gore

Sat, Jun 6 – St Louis, MO – The Pageant

Mon, Jun 8 – Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre

Tue, Jun 9 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot

Fri, Jun 12 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues

Sat, Jun 13 – Phoenix, AZ – Nile Theater

Mon, Jun 15 – San Antonio, TX – Aztec Theatre

Tue, Jun 16 – Houston, TX – House of Blues

Thu, Jun 18 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl

Fri, Jun 19 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade

Sat, Jun 20 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore

Sun, Jun 21 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Soundstage

Tue, Jun 23 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza

Wed, Jun 24 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium

Fri, Jun 26 – Toronto, ON – Danforth Music Hall

Sat, Jun 27 – Montreal, QC – Théâtre Beanfield

Download Tour Art HERE

On Sale Schedule

Soundrink Pre-Sale: Tuesday, March 3rd @ 10am Local

Spotify Pre-Sale: Thursday, March 5th @ 10am Local

Venue/Promoter Pre-Sale: Thursday, March 5th @ 10am Local

General On-Sale: Friday, March 6th @ 10am Local

Tickets Available HERE

Kittie are

Morgan Lander (vox/guitar)

Mercedes Lander (drums/backing vox)

Tara McLeod (guitar)

Ivy Vujic (bass)

SWEDISH POWER METAL WARRIORS BLOODBOUND RELEASE VIDEO FOR "THE NINE CRUSADES" FEATURING BRITTNEY SLAYES OF UNLEASH THE ARCHERS

Having ridden into their latest battle with their eleventh epic full-length Field Of Swords, Swedish power metal warriors BLOODBOUND have released another video single from the album. "The Nine Crusades" is another historically-themed anthem, retelling the titular events in typical BLOODBOUND style: A sweeping blend of melodic and heavy power metal. Joining their conquest is powerhouse vocalist Brittney Slayes of Canadian band UNLEASH THE ARCHERS, dueting with Patrik J. Selleby in a glorious mid-tempo anthem. Not only is "The Nine Crusades" the perfect album closer, but also a powerful herald of what's to come.

BLOODBOUND are currently getting ready to share their new songs live. Starting March 12 in Hamburg, they will be on tour supporting labelmates ANGUS MCSIX, with additional support from Brainstorm. Their run will take them to eleven cities, ending in Eindhoven on March 22. Following, BLOODBOUND will play European festivals, including mountainous Full Metal Mayrhofen, organized by Wacken Open Air, and Alcatraz Festival in Belgium.

Fredrik Bergh about "The Nine Crusades":
"The major part of this song was actually written by myself and Tomas back in 2018, and it was written especially for the band Sabaton! Joakim Brodén from Sabaton liked the rough demo and wanted to work further on this song together with us, but the collaboration never materialized. I have always felt it was a very strong track, so we decided to record the song ourselves for the new album instead. I am super proud of this song. I feel it’s one of the best songs I’ve ever been involved in writing! The song features the great Brittney Slayes from UNLEASH THE ARCHERS, who sings the song as a duet together with Patrik."

Tomas Olsson about "The Nine Crusades":
"This song is a summation of the Crusader era, 1096–1291. During this period nine crusades took place. It is estimated that over 2 million people died."

Brittney Slayes about "The Nine Crusades":
"It is such an honour to be featured on this BLOODBOUND track; I have been a fan of the band for well over a decade so when they approached me about doing some guest vocals of course the answer was a resounding yes! This song is quite different from what we do in UNLEASH THE ARCHERS, and is not at all like my own writing style, so I was excited to be able sing something new and to put my own spin on it. The whole collaboration had been a blast, and I’m glad I was able to make it into the music video as well; it was very nice of them to include me. Hopefully the fans enjoy this song and feel I added something worthwhile to this already amazing band!"

Watch the Lyric Video for "The Nine Crusades" Below:

BLOODBOUND's latest triumphant march impressively illustrates the importance of purpose and perseverance with heroic tales in shining heavy metal armor. Valiant, vigorous, and ultimately victorious: Field Of Swords has come to expand BLOODBOUND’s domination of the scene!

Fredrik Bergh on Field Of Swords: "Field Of Swords is a concept album, a continuation from our last album Tales From The North (2023) which touched upon the subject of the Viking era. On Field Of Swords, we have moved on in history and entered the Middle Ages (after 1066). The concept, in short, is the following: When the Viking Age ended in the year of our Lord 1066, came the long and grim Medieval times. We are extremely excited about the new album and to release it with the backing of the mighty Napalm Records. Music-wise, the new album has a slightly more modern sound, but we canguarantee it includes all the elements BLOODBOUND is known for! It's a diverse record with aggressive songs, epic tracks, and it also contains some of the fastest parts we have written. And on the other hand, we have some slower, majestic songs as well, like, 'The Nine Crusades' where UNLEASH THE ARCHERS' Brittney Slayes duets with Patrik. Field Of Swords has everything you can ask for!"

Get Your Copy of Field Of Swords NOW!

BLOODBOUND's first release with Napalm Records adds another 11 captivating battle hymns to their repertoire. A diverse record with aggressive songs and epic tracks alike, their eleventh album also contains some of the band’s fastest material ever written. The opening title track, "Field Of Swords", immediately storms into BLOODBOUND’s signature sound, braiding stories of glory with a sweeping blend of melodic and heavy power metal. The dominant "As Empires Fall" follows the crusaders east and powerfully depicts said glory in epic battle in contrast with sacrifices made on the way. "Defenders Of Jerusalem" cleverly expands on the topic of loss, leaving listeners to wonder which side is holding their heads up high in the face of imminent defeat. Catchy flutes have the heroes take heart in "The Code Of Warriors" to guide them into the "Land Of The Brave" and Field Of Swordsto new heights at the same time. "Light In The Sky" further illustrates BLOODBOUND’s battle scars turned electrifying sound, while the mature "Teutonic Knights" opens up the bleak reality of the tragedy that undoubtedly accompanies this battle-torn era of history. Yet, "Forged In Iron", "Pain and Glory", and "Born to be King" hold their ground as equally unforgettable tunes, all leading up to the brilliant finale: Brittney Slayes of powerhouse Canadian band UNLEASH THE ARCHERS joins "The Nine Crusades" as another valuable fighter to lead Field Of Swords to greatness.

Field Of Swords is available in the following formats:
Deluxe Box 350g Cardboard Box, incl. 1CD Digipak, Flag, Patch, Live Album in Slipcase, Autographed Card – Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive (strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide)

1LP Vinyl Gatefold Marbled Oxblood Red, incl. 12-page booklet – Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive (strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide)

1LP Vinyl Gatefold Black
1CD Digipak
Digital Album

BLOODBOUND are:
Patrik J. Selleby – Vocals
Tomas Olsson – Lead and Rhythm Guitars
Fredrik Bergh – Keyboards
Henrik Olsson – Guitars
Anders Broman – Bass
Daniel Hansfeldt – Drums

VOXX Unleash New Single “Someone’s Watching” — A Dark, Electrifying Anthem for Modern Rock Fans

" Watched. Wired. Awake. We Rise."

The rising rock band VOXX returns with a gripping new single, “Someone’s Watching,” a powerful and atmospheric track that blends intensity, emotion, and cinematic edge into one unforgettable listening experience.

With “Someone’s Watching,” VOXX dives deep into themes of paranoia, pressure, and the unseen weight of modern life, delivering a song that feels both personal and universally relatable. Driven by thunderous instrumentation, haunting melodies, and commanding vocals, the track showcases the band’s evolution and their ability to craft music that resonates long after the final note fades.

“Someone’s Watching” captures the raw energy VOXX has become known for while pushing their sound into darker, more immersive territory. The single balances heavy rock dynamics with melodic depth, creating a sonic atmosphere that pulls listeners in and refuses

to let go.

VOXX is a high-energy rock force blending modern alternative grit with hard-hitting metal intensity. Fronted by Regis Lima, VOXX delivers powerful vocals, driving guitars, and anthemic hooks that hit both the heart and the adrenaline.

Behind the punch is Sterling on drums, laying down explosive, precision-driven rhythms that power every track. Jacob Bageard on guitars brings razor-sharp riffs and soaring melodies, while Kaylynn Sammy on bass locks in the groove with deep, commanding low-end that gives VOXX its signature weight and pulse.

Known for electrifying live performances and emotionally charged originals like “Someone Is Watching,” VOXX fuses raw vulnerability with unapologetic strength — tackling themes of pressure, betrayal, resilience, and rising above the noise.

Rooted in the Tampa Bay rock scene and building a loyal following, VOXX isn’t just a band — it’s a voice. Loud. Fearless. Unfiltered.

BETTER NOISE MUSIC ANNOUNCES 2026 STAFF PROMOTIONS + UPDATES

BETTER NOISE MUSIC, the artist development company and the premier independent record label operating under BETTER NOISE ENTERTAINMENT, a content creation and marketing company that produces music, books, films, documentaries, TV shows, theatrical productions, and tours, is pleased to announce several key staff promotions and an addition for 2026. 

Michael Lombardi has been promoted to Chief Creative Officer, while Nashville-based Erick Charles has been upped to Vice President of Marketing. Rounding out the marketing department is new hire Sarah Sigro, who will be based in Nashville, as well. Sigro stepped into her role earlier this week.

"We are incredibly fortunate to have Erick and Michael on the Better Noise team," states General Manager Paul Cormack. "Today, we celebrate each of these well-earned promotions recognizing strategic ability and commitment to artist development."

Lombardi's origin story begins as an actor, with a 100-episode series regular run on Emmy and Golden Globe–nominated FX series Rescue Me and notable appearances across a variety of television series and feature films. That body of work in film and television didn't just shape him as a performer — it trained him as a leader. Years on set taught Lombardi how to build and run a crew, guide a creative vision from concept to completion, and think like an entrepreneur. Approaching each project like a "helicopter, not a tank," he learned to see the full landscape, work from the endgame backward, and keep teams aligned around a shared, big-picture goal. Lombardi joined Better Noise Music's film division as a studio production executive in 2020. In 2021, he became Head of Production at Better Noise Music.

"I've always believed we're not just a record label," Lombardi states. "We're a storytelling company that thinks outside the box. We don't operate like an assembly line. We're an artist development company and we go deep with our artists, their lyrics, and the worlds they create—and that collaborative energy is what I'm most proud to further grow as Chief Creative Officer."

Charles, who joined Better Noise Music as Director of Marketing in February 2025, earns his VP stripes after having spent over two decades in the industry. His career launched in the label world at Fueled By Ramen and Roadrunner Records, working with a roster of platinum-selling and culture-dictating acts such as Paramore, Panic! At The Disco, twenty one pilots, Turnstile, Slipknot, and countless others.

Ever-evolving, Charles has also worked in the music tech and events space, overseeing marketing for livestream concerts, artist mobile apps, fan clubs, and VIP experiences. The Nashville-based Charles leads marketing efforts for a vast array of acts, including Five Finger Death Punch, Sabaton, Yellowcard, NOTHING MORE, The Funeral Portrait, and others.

"Over the past year, I've had the opportunity to build alongside an incredible team at Better Noise Music," Charles states. "Stepping into the role of Vice President of Marketing is an honor and I'm excited to continue helping our artists creatively connect with and grow their audiences."

ABOUT BETTER NOISE MUSIC:
 Better Noise Music founded in 2006 by music industry veteran and independent pioneer Allen Kovac, focuses on artist development and has grown into a music industry independent powerhouse, with a roster including Five Finger Death Punch, Yellowcard, Sabaton, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Bad Wolves, Dirty Heads, The Rasmus, NOTHING MORE, The HU, From Ashes To New, Cory Marks, Eva Under Fire, and The Funeral Portrait. The company operates a global marketing and distribution platform with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, Austin, Miami, London, Berlin, Toronto, and Sydney. The label was named Billboard’s #1 Mainstream Rock Airplay Label and #1 Mainstream Rock Airplay Imprint of 2024, after its history-making run of 5 consecutive years as the #1 Mainstream Rock Airplay Imprint (2018-2022).

KOE WETZEL’S HOMETOWN OF PITTSBURG, TEXAS DEBUTS WETZEL MURAL DOWNTOWN, DUBS FEBRUARY 28 “KOE WETZEL DAY”

In his 2025 Billboard cover story, Koe Wetzel joked that maybe one day his mural might join Pittsburg, Texas’ other famous citizens, including Homer Jones, the New York Giants receiver who invented spiking the football after a touchdown. Little did he expect, less than a year later, his hometown in East Texas would commemorate such an occasion with their mayor and city manager presenting a key to the city and a proclamation naming February 28 “Koe Wetzel Day.” 

A well-kept secret for months, which in a small town is a feat amongst itself, Wetzel’s hometown group text let it slide earlier this week that the city may be working on a mural downtown. Still, the “High Road” singer was stunned to arrive at a full-blown celebration, complete with a high school marching band and cheerleaders exciting the crowd full of family, friends and local dignitaries prior to the ceremony. Watch local coverage HERE.
 

See Video from Koe Wetzel Day Dedication

 
After reading the proclamation, Mayor Abernathy mused as he presented Wetzel with an oversized key, “I’d like to present Koe a key to the city of Pittsburg – it won’t get in all the banks.” 

Wetzel shared a few words, “It’s good to be back in Pittsburg. Every time we come back here it’s like we never left, with my family and my friends… it all starts there. My family sitting here – my mom, my dad, my sisters, my grandparents – my girls here, they’ve always been my No. 1 fan and they’ve gotten me where I am by doing so, but also with the help from Pittsburg, Texas and all the great people here that have made everything happen. No matter where I go in this life, no matter what country, state or city I’m in, I always know Pittsburg, Texas is home for me. And whenever I come back, you all make sure to remind me of that and treat me like I never left, and I always appreciate that.” 

To further mark 10 years of “February 28, 2016,” Wetzel surprised fans after his Ft. Worth Riot Room set by dropping a mixtape, These Are Going Nowhere: A Mixtape by Koe Wetzel, at midnight, sharing, “Thanks for the best decade of my life. Here’s some of my favorite Koe shit from the vault to hold you over until my new album comes out this summer.”

About Koe Wetzel
Koe Wetzel never met a genre wall he couldn’t tear down. The Texan singer-songwriter has earned a rabid audience for his songs that mix country, rock, hip-hop and Nineties grunge. With his defining fifth studio album, the Gold-certified 9 Lives released in 2024 via Columbia Records, Wetzel earned recognition on several major year-end best-of lists, including Rolling Stone, Billboard, the Tennessean and more, with the Los Angeles Times naming lead single “High Road” (feat. Jessie Murph) as the No. 8 best song of 2024 across all genres. The single not only marked Wetzel’s debut at Country radio, it also held the No. 1 spot for five weeks, was the most-played song of 2025 per Country Aircheck/Mediabase and the now-3x Platinum song became his fastest to reach the RIAA Platinum milestone to date. Previously, his 2016 album Noise Complaint endeared him to fans with its no-holds-barred lyrics about drunken nights, broken hearts and stints in jail, and included the Gold-certified hit “Love” (feat. Parker McCollum), Platinum “Something to Talk About” plus the infamous “February 28, 2016.” Wetzel’s 2020 major label debut, the Gold-certified Sellout, only furthered his legend with the Platinum-certified “Drunk Driving” and “Good Die Young” plus the Gold-certified “Kuntry & Wistern.” The 2022 follow-up, Hell Paso, hit No. 3 on Billboard’s Country Albums and spawned hits on both the country and rock charts, including the Gold-certified “Creeps” and “Cabo.” To date, Wetzel has amassed 4.2 billion total streams and has created a genuine experience with his live concerts, which he describes as “total chaos.” Wetzel performed for more than 250,000 fans across his headlining Damn Near Normal Tour in 2024, while joining HARDY’s Jim Bob World Tour in 2025 along with select stadium dates with Morgan Wallen; 2026 sees him return to the road with The Night Champion Tour launching in May.

L to R: City Manager Clint Hardeman, Koe Wetzel and Pittsburg, Texas Mayor Abernathy in downtown Pittsburg, Texas on Friday, February 27, 2026. 
Photo Credit: Michael Herrick

The Props Share "Arrow" Video

Los Angeles—based alternative band THE PROPS — Nick Ruiz (vocals), Dawson Henry (guitar), Sam Edelman (drums), and Jersey Sullivan — will drop their debut EP, Arrow, which was produced by GRAMMY®-winner Carlos de la Garza, on April 10 via Blue Grape Music. Pre-save it here. 

The Props, who draw from new wave and post-punk influences, display said influences on the title track from the EP. Watch the video, which finds the band behind the wheel and knuckling down on their instruments, below.

​"'Arrow' is about deciding where your life is headed, whether you'll stand in the ruins of your emotions or rebuild yourself into the person you want to be," says Ruiz.

The band will host a free record release show on April 15 at 7pm at The Virgil (4519 Santa Monica Blvd ) in Silverlake in Los Angeles.