Oakland soulful rock outfit SEAL PARTY release debut album 'MMXXII' LP with all-star cast of 22 artists

"A dynamic duo where their soul music talents can shine when given the opportunity to create for themselves. Their style can be compared to greats of the genre, such as Sly and the Family Stone, Dexys Midnight Runners, and The Isley Brothers" ~ Vents Magazine

"Fun improvised sense of music collectivism... Soulful, optimistic and uplifting, Seal Party's music packs a powerful mix of rock, soul and R&B, created and performed with taste, along with a good sense of groove" ~ Amplify Music Magazine

"The uplifting lyrics combined with the sweet harmonies are smooth and calming... a three-minute escape from stressful realities to reflect on life’s silver linings and appreciate every minute despite ups and downs" ~ Music-News.com

Soulful art-rock outfit Seal Party presents their rich and captivating debut album 'MMXXII', a meaningful and timeless place that is filled with improvisation, fury, and lyrical beauty, Evoking ‘70s soul, rock and R&B while maintaining a raw and exploratory approach, this eclectic work meshes unusual songwriting and musicianship with a style that is at once playful and rebellious.

Ahead of this release, they presented the singles 'Maison', featuring R&B organ wizard Chris Rob (Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Anita Baker, Talib Kweli), and 'Kaleka', a stunning piano-based composition that brings together the best elements of David Bowie and Joe Cocker.

As a songwriting-production duo, Chris McGrew (drums/production) and Kevin Seal (keyboards/vocals) formed Seal Party after many years of helping other artists realize their visions. On their debut record, these studio veterans let their own voices come to the fore, revealing their fury and beauty, both rock and groove. Epic melodies soar over tasty chords to tell their stories.

Surprising sounds come when sidemen step into the spotlight. Habitually session musicians, quarantine culture gave McGrew and Seal access to an empty recording studio -- namely Studio C of Hyde Street Studios in San Francisco (AKA Wally’s HydeOut), in the room of the former Wally Heider Studios, where artists ranging from the Dead Kennedys to the Grateful Dead to Herbie Hancock recorded some of their most legendary sides.

Recorded by Liam Wesley Craddock and Chris McGrew, the 'MMXXII' album was mixed by McGrew and Jaimeson Durr (Sammy Haggar, Joe Satriani, Hope Sandoval).

This record involves world-class horn players, violinists, organists and vocalists. An all-star cast of 22 collaborators includes blues and RnB royalty like Isaiah Sharkey (D’Angelo, John Mayer, Patti LaBelle) and Keyon Harrold (D’Angelo, Maxwell), punk icon Larry Boothroyd (Jello Biafra & the Guantanamo School of Medicine, Victims Family), bassist Uriah Duffy (Whitesnake, Fantastic Negrito), Ben Misterka (Collectivity), saxophonist Kenneth Whalum (Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Maxwell, Justin Timberlake), trumpeter Rich Armstrong (Spoon, Boz Scaggs, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Thomas Dolby), guitarist Jonnie Axtell (Psychefunkapus, Dee Snider, Tone Loc) and saxophonist Daniel Casares (Atta Kid, Jazz Mafia, the New Mastersounds).

The result is 'MMXXII' - a continuous, expansive, engrossing album that is eclectic and beautiful. Decades of studio magic seep into the tracks, like the casks flavoring the Scotch. Stretching across genre boundaries, jazz luminaries and punk stalwarts join together to create a series of unique songs.

On August 5, 'MMXXII" album will be available everywhere digitally, including Spotify, Apple Music,and Bandcamp, where the full 'MMXXII' album can already be ordered.The digital version will be released via New Age Distribution and the CD released by X Racer Productions.

CREDITS
Chris McGrew - drums, percussion
Liam Wesley Craddock - percussion
Kimiko Joy - vocals
Renee Padgett - vocals
Rich Armstrong - vocals, vocal arrangement, and trumpet
Daniel Casares - saxophone
Scott Thompson - bass
Chris Rob - organ
K-Seal - vocals, piano
Written & produced by Chris McGrew & Kevin Seal
Recorded by Liam Wesley Craddock & Chris McGrew
at Wally's HydeOut in Hyde Street Studios, San Francisco
Mixed by Jaimeson Durr & Chris McGrew
Mastered by Justin Weis
'Maison' single cover artwork by Serena Di Pinto's
Artist photos by Shealin Ritter and Maryzelle Ungo


Keep up with Seal Party
Website Bandcamp | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Apple Music| Spotify | Press contact

Glasgow indie-folk outfit STARRY SKIES present 'Smile Through The Dark' single ahead of new 'Small Wonders' LP

"Among the finest of the current crop” ~ Clash Magazine

"Upbeat and uplifting pop - perfect for all seasons" ~ Rough Trade Records

"Ticks all of the boxes in terms of infectiousness, addiction, groove and melody and has some real depth... straight-forward and brilliant" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

“Revolutionary, authentic and unifying" ~ The Manc Review

“One of the finest singers Scotland has ever produced…singular song writing talent” ~ Stevie Jackson (B&S)

“Beautiful, exciting and timeless” ~ Red Handed Magazine

Glasgow-based Starry Skies are set to release their fourth studio album ‘Small Wonders’ via Fox Star Records, following up 2020’s long player ‘Do It With Love’. With a brilliant mix of classic rock, power pop and folk pop, the band is back with a crowdfunded album of shimmering delights. Ahead of this, the band is previewing the sublime first track from this record - 'Smile Through The Dark'.

Early reviews of the album have dubbed this hearty 10-track collection a "masterpiece" and their strongest work yet. Recorded in 2021, these songs encourage folks to find the positive wherever we can.

Shaped by personal encounters with music icons Nina Simone, Iggy Pop and Chuck Berry, Warren McIntyre (a.k.a. Warren Starry Sky) founded the band in 2014 to encourage the proliferation of positive, hopeful music. Today, Starry Skies is made up of McIntyre, Jenny Lunan, Heather Phillips, Sophie Pragnell, Johnny Rooney and Adam Scott, who come from various parts of Scotland, England and Australia. Over the years, they have supported Snow Patrol, Belle and Sebastian, The Vaselines and Teenage Fanclub.

Packed full of upbeat, catchy songs with the inspired thoughtful lyrics that the Starries are known for producing, 'Small Wonders' was recorded and produced by Matt Harvey at Maybank Studios, perhaps best known for his work with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Scottish Opera, and mastered at Abbey Road Studios by legendary mastering engineer Frank Arkwright (Arcade Fire, The Smiths, New Order, Coldplay, Oasis, Primal Scream, Blur, Mogwai, Bryan Ferry, Scott Walker, The Charlatans).

"This record is intended to celebrate the small wonders that are all around us if we open our eyes to see them. The songs were written during 2021, when we were all really grateful for small things like being able to go for a walk with a friend. But, as a collection, they ended up a bit of a mish-mash of lyrical-led protest songs, some folk-pop with cello, viola and violin, a beautiful sparse piano ballad and even a couple of punky indie dance floor fillers," says Warren McIntyre.

Ahead of the album, the band presents sonic goodness, hope, beauty and kindness in the songs 'Kindhearted People' and 'Spitfire Susie', which tells the story of a local hero and force of nature Miss Susie Ross, who fixed spitfires during the war and taught thousands of children in the years afterward. She and Warren became friends and he wrote the song in her honour.

"The song 'Highwater Eagle' is written from the standpoint of a young First Nation woman. After recording it, we worried about anyone thinking it was cultural appropriation, so I sent it to the Native American Indian Association. Their president A’lice Myers Hall wrote back to say she thought the words are beautiful and that I had been sent the words to share with people. She also suggested working with some native poets and musicians to share stories," says McIntyre.

'Smile Through The Dark' is available now via Bandcamp,, where the 'Small Wonders' album is currently available for pre-order. As of August 12, it will be made available everywhere, including Apple Music and Spotify and Bandcamp, as well as on CD and sky-blue vinyl. It can be ordered from record shops or purchased directly from Last Night From Glasgow. The album is distributed through Proper Distribution in the UK and Redeye in the USA.

CREDITS
Written by Warren McIntyre
Recorded and produced by Matt Harvey at Maybank Studios, Glasgow
Mastered by Frank Arkwright at Abbey Road Studios, London
Album artwork by GND Design, back cover photo by Didier

Keep up with Starry Skies
Bandcamp | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Soundcloud | Apple Music | Spotify

UPON WINGS Teams with Skidd Mills (Saving Abel) + Pepe Clarke Magaña (Kyng) for New Single + Video "Last Love"

'Last Love' EP Out September 23 - PRE-ORDER

Female-led rock band UPON WINGS have shared the new single and music video for "Last Love". The soaring, guitar-heavy anthem was mixed and mastered by Skidd Mills, best known for working with bands like Saving Abel and Pop Evil. Pepe Clarke Magaña of California metal titans Kyng also performed drums on the track, while Kevin Jardine of Canada's Uplift Productions, a longtime collaborator with Upon Wings, produced the track and performed guitars.

WATCH the official music video and LISTEN to "Last Love" below.

"Last Love" will also be available for streaming and download at midnight (August 5th)on all platforms via THIS LINK.

"'Last Love' is about that feeling that you've missed out on your one chance for true love,"explains vocalist Anne Autumn Erickson, a classically trained mezzo soprano. "In truth, I believe there is always a true love out there for you, but I think everyone has been in that situation where it seems like your chance for finding that love is gone - but it's not!"

"Last Love" offers a passionate dose of the metal-heavy sound Upon Wings was created from. It follows the pop-tinged "Scars," which dropped in early 2022, and has racked up thousands of Spotify streams and YouTube views.

In addition to releasing the "Last Love" single, Upon Wings has announced the release of their 'Last Love' EP, out September 23rd via Sword of the Spirit Records. This new EP will feature several of Upon Wings' recent singles, as well as a 10th anniversary edition of the band's debut single, "The Dream," which dropped on August 10th, 2012.

PRE-ORDER the 'Last Love' EP

Upon Wings, fronted by Anne Autumn Erickson, have spent the last several years carving a name for themselves in the music world with their inspiring, heartfelt brand of rock and metal. They've been heard on SiriusXM Octane's Big 'Uns Countdown for their single "Afterlife", featuring Brett Hestla of Creed and Dark New Day. Their 2021 single, "Eternal Way", appeared on Knotfest's "New Flesh" playlist. They've also been featured on Loudwire's "Weekly Wire" playlist with their Christmas music.

Scotty McCreery Partners with Dr Pepper for "The Flyaway Experience You Deserve"

Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery, who is currently at No.1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart for the third consecutive week with his hit song “Damn Strait,” has partnered with Dr Pepper to give fans the chance to win “The Flyaway Experience You Deserve.” The grand prize includes travel, meet and greet, and tickets to one of McCreery’s shows later this year. Fans can visit DrPepperMusic.com/Scotty-McCreery to sign up for a chance to win, get more information and learn more about McCreery.

“I’ve been drinking Dr Pepper ever since I was a kid playing baseball with my friends. That was always our drink after the games,” said McCreery. “Dr Pepper has always been one of my favorites.”

McCreery’s Dr Pepper promotion kicked off on Aug. 1, via social media and centers around the North Carolina native’s recent No.1 hit “You Time,” which the singer wrote with Frank Rogers and Aaron Eshuis. McCreery will also be featured as part of Dr Pepper’s in-store display marketing materials in major grocery chains throughout select markets including Albertsons, Food City, Harris Teeter, Kroger, Piggly Wiggly, Walmart, Winn Dixie, and more throughout August.

“Damn Strait” is McCreery’s fifth consecutive No.1 hit, following “You Time,” “In Between,” “This is It,” and “Five More Minutes.” Upon the song’s release, Rolling Stone named it a “Pick of the Week” calling it “clever songwriting, delivered by one of the genres’ best King George disciples,” while Billboard praises, “Another ace is the clever track ‘Damn Strait,’ a rare outside cut on the project, penned by Trent Tomlinson and Jim Collins, in which McCreery name checks several of King George's greatest hits.” Taste of Country recently named it “one of the top 10 country songs of 2022 so far.”

Both “Damn Strait” and “You Time” are featured on his current album, Same Truck, produced by Frank Rogers, Derek Wells, and Aaron Eshuis. Released in late 2021, the Garner, North Carolina native shifted his perspective to reflect on the last decade of his career and life with wife Gabi and dog Moose, with Tennessean sharing, “McCreery walks a sonic tightrope that leans into his country influences while not abandoning modern Music Row hitmaking,” while Sounds Like Nashville observes, “with 12 tracks in total, those songs ended up showing more maturity than ever, and exploring everything from the common bonds his fans share to the eternal flame of romance.”

McCreery and his wife Gabi recently announced in People that they are expecting their first child, a boy, to be born in early November.

About Scotty McCreery
Scotty McCreery’s new album Same Truck is available now everywhere music is sold. It contains his No. 1 singles “You Time” and “Damn Strait.” McCreery co-wrote 10 of the 12 songs on Same Truck. He achieved new heights by earning three back-to-back No. 1 hits from his last album Seasons Change, the RIAA Gold-certified project which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Album chart: the RIAA Double Platinum-certified “Five More Minutes,” the RIAA Platinum-certified “This Is It,” which stayed at the top of the charts for two weeks, and RIAA Gold-certified “In Between.” McCreery co-wrote all 11 songs on Seasons Change, which Rolling Stone named as one of the “40 Best Country and Americana Albums of 2018.” All four of his previous albums have debuted at No. 1 on a Billboard Albums chart, with current combined sales surpassing 3 million copies. He’s earned one Double Platinum, four Platinum and two Gold singles; won the 10th season of “American Idol” in 2011; was named the ACM New Artist of the Year in 2011; won the CMT Music Award for Breakthrough Video of the Year (‘The Trouble with Girls’) in 2012; American Country Awards for New Artist of the Year in 2011 and Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2013; BMI Awards for writing One of the Top 50 Country Songs of the Year four times (in 2015 for “See You Tonight,” in 2018 for “Five More Minutes,” in 2019 for “This is It.” and 2021 for “In Between”); a Carolina Beach Music Award for National Dance Song of the Year (‘Barefootin’’) in 2018; and the NSAI Nashville Songwriter Award for One of the Top Ten Songs I Wish I’d Written (‘Five More Minutes’) in 2018. The North Carolina native released his first book, Go Big or Go Home: The Journey Toward the Dream, in 2016; it was re-released in paperback in 2020. His song “Five More Minutes” inspired a popular movie of the same name which aired on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Network during November-December 2021. McCreery launched his recording career by making history in 2011 as both the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified Clear as Day, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.

Extreme Melodic Death Metal Unit DEFACING GOD Release Second Single “The End Of Times” + Official Music Video

Extreme Melodic Death Metal Unit DEFACING GOD Release Second Single “The End Of Times” + Official Music Video

Watch below.

Debut Album, “The Resurrection Of Lilith”, out September 2nd 

Pre-Order NOW!

Extreme melodic death metal upstarts DEFACING GOD command notice with their hauntingly dark and refreshingly honest debut album, The Resurrection Of Lilith, set for release on September 2, 2022 via Napalm Records. The record marks a multifaceted, grim and bludgeoning escape that spans the arc between raw death metal and symphonic grandiosity with ease, showcasing DEFACING GOD’s ambition to bewitch metal fans around the world with their sonic universe. With their conceptual themes, the Denmark based outfit focuses on the seeping darkness that moves in us all – rooted in occultism and witchcraft, but primarily the mythologically mysterious female demon Lilith and her tales of fervent defiance and perseverance.

The second single from The Resurrection of Lilith, entitled “The End Of Times”, is out now – and a direct hit to the skull! Starting with a wall of blast beats and fast palm muted guitar rhythms, this banger takes you right into insanity, sorrow and pain. “The End Of Times” is a perfect example of extreme melodies paired with haunting orchestral elements, echoing the styles of artists such as Cradle of Filth and Dimmu Borgir. 

DEFACING GOD on “The End Of Times”:

“The term ‘End Of times’ relates to the era that precedes the termination of life on earth, with different man-made religions interpreting the events and time of its occurrence. The end of times marks the moment of divine retribution where the world will receive its grand judgement, widely referred as the Apocalypse. In our attempt on creating the sound and the visuals of the Apocalypse, the world is seen through the eyes of Lilith. The lyrics say, ‘This is the end of times; the cosmic energy has brought. Omniscience balance, the ascension has begun’.

We can ́t control the power of nature and cosmic events as we are simple mortal beings. Not only are we threatened by the force of nature beyond our control, but we are also threatened by our own flesh and blood. The urge of materialism, authority, power, status, and money, which can all lead to wars, oppression, pain, and sorrow. The song refers to the spiritual aspects and realities that are supposed to be hidden behind humanity’s material world and the evil of the spiritual world, but in fact it alludes to the man-made horrors of war, greed, oppression, mass consumption, the lack of integrity, and our self-made road to destruction which will eventually lead to the end of humanity. If we were to be asked, ‘What would the Apocalypse sound like?’, then this is it. As the lyrics also state, ‘Passengers on the death train, welcome everybody – time to climb onboard!’”

Through their storytelling, music and aesthetic, the band pulls their listeners into a dark universe of obscure myths, folklore and ancient stories, all the while weaving in often subtle lyrical inspirations from modern societal oppressions and personal demons. Sonically, DEFACING GOD balance massive extreme melodies with a twist of grandiose orchestration by Lars Vinther, echoing the styles of artists such as Cradle of Filth, Carach Angren and Dimmu Borgir. But rather than blend it with a conventional dose of black metal, the band proudly merges these auras with infernal death metal. Additionally, The Resurrection Of Lilith was produced by Jacob Hansen – known for his work with Fleshgod Apocalypse, Volbeat, Evergrey, Epica and countless others.

DEFACING GOD state:

“The stories draw parallels to the ancient, but also the present world where many people (Lilith ́s point of view: women) still have to fight for their freedom and justice. A world where there are still people being oppressed and held down either because of their gender, ethnicity or their personal conviction. We are enslaved by society in so many ways that it ́s even hard to imagine and to comprehend. Furthermore, ‘Lilith’ speaks up for strong bonds, exactly like the one we're having in the metal community. The mission for Lilith, is to send out a message saying that we are stronger if we truly stand together and with being free and with the right mindset, we can change the world.

In the name of art there should no boundaries and everyone should have the freedom to be their own independent self, to explore and to express as they desire without being judged or oppressed.”

Pre-order DEFACING GOD's debut The Resurrection Of Lilith NOW!

The rising force of occult Melodic Death Metal with their impressively grand debut!

The Resurrection Of Lilith arises with a cinematic, chanting introduction, leading the listener into the demonic world of DEFACING GOD. Building up tension to release into an uncompromising melodic, orchestral death metal assault on “The Invocation Part I “Lilith””, the track emerges as the first of three songs introducing female forces of legend as a trinity to be reckoned with – the first being Lilith, Adam’s first wife, who refused to obey and now reigns as a symbol of feminine rage and independency, but also for the darkness found within oneself. Bookending the undeniably strong “The Resurrection” are parts two and three – “The Invocation Part II “Jezebel”” and “The Invocation Part III “Abyzou”” – which lead into “The Rise of Trinity”. The remainder of The Resurrection Of Lilith proves to be an auditory onslaught of epic proportions, seeing DEFACING GOD unleash their supreme power and full songwriting dynamics with varying yet unrelentingly hard-hitting tracks like “The End Of Times”, “Echoes From Fulda”, “Death Followed Like a Plague” and “Enslaved”. Penultimate track “In the Land of Rain and Sorrow” blasts with a blackened, dense wall of sound before the album closes with encapsulating, symphonic “Into the Mist of Memories” – featuring a neo-classically inspired guitar solo.

DEFACING GOD are:

Sandie Gjørtz - Vocals

Signar Petersen - Lead Guitar

Christian Snapholt Nielsen - Rhythm Guitar

Michael Olsson - Drums

Rasmus "Kalke" Nielsen - Bass

Michael Ray Announces "The Warehouse Sessions" Live EP

On the heels of his fourth No. 1 single “Whiskey And Rain” reaching RIAA Platinum-certified status, hitmaker Michael Ray announces The Warehouse Sessions live EP via Warner Music Nashville, featuring four tracks from Higher Education and his second No. 1 single, RIAA Platinum-certified “Think A Little Less,” set for release tomorrow, Aug. 5.

“After two years of connecting solely via our screens and dreaming of being back on the road again, there's nothing like hearing fans sing these songs back to us live,” shares the Florida-native. “We’re keeping that energy going with The Warehouse Sessions.”

Along with tomorrow’s release, Ray is set to perform current chart-climbing single “Holy Water” and other fan favorites on the Fox & Friends All-American Summer Concert Series tomorrow, Aug. 5 at 8:50am ET.

“Holy Water,” the second single from Higher Education written by Ashley Gorley, Hunter Phelps, Ben Johnson and Michael Hardy, offers a prime example that Ray “undoubtedly knows his way around a country song,” showcasing his ability to sing mouthfuls of detail with the smooth, unhurried delivery of a veteran storyteller, while the chorus is “a high-powered anthemic section…encased in a singalong, descending melody,” shares Billboard.

Lead single “Whiskey And Rain,” written by Josh Thompson and Jesse Frasure, marked Ray’s first multi-week chart topper and quickly garnered attention from critics, with Rolling Stone dubbing the track as “equal parts Ronnie Milsap and Gary Allan” while Billboard called it “a throwback to brooding songs from the ‘80s and ‘90s” with “solid production by Ross Copperman highlighting Ray’s vulnerable delivery.”

On Higher Education, “Ray found a refuge in the mere act of making music that tells his imperfect story, a story that so many people in this world can certainly relate to during these crazy days,” PEOPLE observed, while American Songwriter emphasized “Higher Education is shaped by the muse of the man Ray hopes to be, and the lessons he’s learned along the way… inviting his listeners into his world, pulling back the curtain on who he is off the stage.”

Ray will join Lee Brice on the Label Me Proud Tour later this month, along with headlining and festival dates through the fall. For dates, tickets and additional information go to MichaelRayMusic.com.

Label Me Proud Tour Dates with Lee Brice

Aug. 11 Pensacola Bay Center Pensacola, Fla.
Aug. 12 St. Augustine Amphitheatre St. Augustine, Fla.
Aug. 13 Mizner Park Amphitheater Boca Raton, Fla.
Aug. 25 Mountain Health Arena Huntington, W.V.
Aug. 26 Freedom Hall Civic Center Johnson City, Tenn.
Aug. 27 Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Chattanooga, Tenn.
Sept. 8 Ting Pavilion Charlottesville, Va.
Sept. 9 Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre Youngstown, Ohio
Sept. 10 Red Hat Amphitheater Raleigh, N.C.
Sept. 15 Show Me Center Cape Girardeau, Mo.
Sept. 16 PNC Pavilion Cincinnati, Ohio
Sept. 17 TCU Amphitheater at White River State Park Indianapolis, Ind.
Sept. 22 First National Bank Arena Jonesboro, Ark.
Sept. 23 Brookshire Grocery Arena Bossier City, La.
Sept. 24 Smart Financial Center Sugar Land, Texas

Michael Ray Upcoming Tour Dates

Aug. 20 Rockin’ Up North Fest 2022 East Grand Forks, Minn.
Sept. 7 The Bullpen Summer Concert Series Washington, D.C.
Oct. 16 Goldensky Festival 2022 Sacramento, Calif.
Nov. 4 The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon Fort Myers, Fla.
Nov. 5 Bartow Ford Bartow, Fla.

About Michael Ray
For Michael Ray, music is his grandfather singing and sweating on a rural Florida stage. It’s the childhood refuge he found during the pain of his parent's divorce. It’s family and stories, history and hope. Ray says music saved him, but it did even more: Music made him. In five short years, Ray has built an impressive foundation: four No. 1 songs – RIAA Platinum-certified “Think a Little Less,” RIAA Platinum-certified “Whiskey And Rain,” RIAA Gold-certified “Kiss You in the Morning,” RIAA Gold-certified “One That Got Away” – plus “Get to You” and “Her World or Mine,” brings his tally to four Gold-certified singles. Ray has garnered over 1 billion global streams, over 650,000 album equivalents, over 100 million YouTube views, and has performed at the Grand Ole Opry 65 times. Now, two hit albums into that all-too-rare blend of critically acclaimed and commercially successful career, Ray has released Higher Education, a seven-song collection produced by GRAMMY-nominated producer Ross Copperman. Proof that heartbroken wallowing can feel good if it swings, “Whiskey And Rain” marked his first multi-week No. 1, cementing Ray as the ideal bridge between vintage country cool and modern country’s best sounds. His latest single “Holy Water” is climbing the charts at Country radio now, and The Warehouse Sessions live EP is set for release Aug. 5. For more information, visit MichaelRayMusic.com or follow him on Instagram and Twitter@MichaelRayMusic and Facebook.com/MusicMichaelRay.

Upcoming Shows at Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry House

Due to overwhelming demand and a sold-out show at the Grand Ole Opry House on Dec. 18, GRAMMY® Award-Winning Duo for KING + COUNTRY have added a second show on Dec. 19 as part of their “Drummer Boy Christmas Tour: The 2022 LIVE Experience.” Join for King + Country for this special LIVE experience presented in a festive and high-energy fashion that the duo has become known for. Tickets are on sale now at ryman.com. The Dec. 18 concert event will also be available worldwide via ticketed livestream through Mandolin.

Brothers Joel and Luke will be bringing holiday cheer to audiences nationwide this season, performing Christmas classics and brand-new songs such as their fan favorite “Little Drummer Boy” from A Drummer Boy Christmas, #1 hit single “For God Is With Us” from their recently released Billboard Top 200 album, “What Are We Waiting For?, and many more. Fans will also have the chance to see for KING + COUNTRY perform their No. 1 charting, world renowned version of the Christmas classic “Little Drummer Boy.” To get a taste of what to expect, check out the duo’s sparkling performance of “Little Drummer Boy” on ABC’s CMA Country Christmas HERE.

ON SALE NOW AT THE GRAND OLE OPRY HOUSE

FOR KING & COUNTRY
Dec. 19 at 7pm CT

FOR KING + COUNTRY is one of the music industry’s most respected and decorated duos. Brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone have be awarded four GRAMMY® Awards, seven GMA Dove Awards, a Billboard Music Award, and 16 K-LOVE Fan Awards; and their 11 No. 1 songs have produced an astonishing 1.8 billion career streams. The RIAA Platinum-selling act’s live show has been hailed as a must-see concert event that continues to wow sold-out crowds whether in the U.S., Australia, Germany, Netherlands, or New Zealand. FOR KING + COUNTRY’S WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR?, released this year, became the duo’s second Top 10 album on the Billboard 200; following their RIAA Gold certified album, BURN THE SHIPS, which also debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart. The duo has had seven consecutive No. 1 songs including “For God Is With Us,” “joy.,” “TOGETHER” (feat. Kirk Franklin & Tori Kelly),” and the 11-week Platinum smash, “God Only Knows.” The global hitmakers have collaborated with a diverse list of artists including Hillary Scott, Dolly Parton, NEEDTOBREATHE and Timbaland, amongst others. Joel and Luke Smallbone are committed to numerous philanthropic efforts focused on human trafficking, children in need, as well as numerous programs in support of the arts. For more information about FOR KING + COUNTRY visit: www.forkingandcountry.com

WHERE: Grand Ole Opry House, 2804 OPRYLAND DR., NASHVILLE, TN 37214

ON SALE NOWAT RYMAN AUDITORIUM

VINCE GILL RESIDENCY
Aug. 5-7 at 8pm CT

One of the most popular artists in modern country music, Vince Gill is famous for his top-notch songwriting, world-class guitar playing and warm, soaring tenor, all wrapped up in a quick and easy wit. Gill achieved his big breakthrough in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” which won both the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Single and Song of the Year awards as well as a Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. Since then, Gill has won 17 additional CMA Awards, including Song of the Year four times–making him the most-awarded artist in that category in CMA history, and a total of 22 Grammy Awards, his most recent one for Best Country Solo Performance–“When My Amy Prays.” The Academy of Country Music has conferred on Gill eight awards, including its Home Depot Humanitarian Award and the Career Achievement Award. A gifted songwriter, Gill’s compositions earned him the prestigious BMI Icon award in 2014, and entry into theNashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005. In 2007, Gill was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and in 2012 he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame which was placed in cement right next to his wife Amy Grant’s star. In 1991, Gill was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry, a position he treasures. He continues to perform on that historic stage on a regular basis. Throughout his career he has released 20 albums, sold over 30 million albums, and charted 45 singles.Known for his many collaborations, Gill has made guest appearances on more than 1000 albums, and has performed and/or recorded with artists such as Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, Sting, Emmylou Harris, Diana Krall, Jimmy Webb, Bruno Mars, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and George Jones. His collaborative efforts also include albums he has produced for Amy Grant, Ashley Monroe, The Time Jumpers and Wendy Moten. Always considering himself a musician above all else, Gill has over the years been a part of some iconic bands including Pure Prairie League, The Cherry Bombs, and The Time Jumpers. In 2017 Vince was asked to join the Eagles on the road and continues to be a part of that historic band’s tour. Gill’s current album, the critically acclaimed OKIE, is his most personal album, as he sings about his wife in prayer, about kindness and forgiveness, about his heroes in death, and about his own loves, joys, and regrets. For a complete bio, full list of tour dates, news, images and more, visit VinceGill.com.

CONCERT FOR CUMBERLAND HEIGHTS WITH STEVE EARLE & THE DUKES
Sept. 21 at 7:30pm CT

The Concert for Cumberland Heights is an annual fundraiser that began in 1996 to raise much needed funding for adolescent and young adult programs. The event at The Ryman Auditorium has featured artists like Trisha Yearwood, John Hiatt, Josh Turner, Here Come The Mummies, and more. Since its inception, the concert has raised over $3.4 million for families struggling. About 2,400 people attend the concert each year, and more than 330 guests attend the pre-concert party.

YELAWOLF & SHOOTER JENNINGS INTRODUCE SOMETIMES Y
November 17 at 7:30pm CT

“The first time Yelawolf and I connected on a track, it was like this fire exploded in my mind,” says Shooter Jennings. “It confirmed my long-held suspicion that there was something really special between the two of us.” Special, it turns out, is a serious understatement when it comes to Jennings and Yelawolf’s extraordinary new collaboration, Sometimes Y. Recorded in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the duo’s self-titled debut is a bold and intoxicating rock and roll hybrid, one that fuses past and future sounds to conjure up some alternate universe where David Bowie fronted Thin Lizzy or Axl Rose sang with The Cars. The songs here are as addictive as they are unpredictable, mixing ’80s bombast and arena rock energy with country earnestness and hip-hop swagger, and the performances are thrilling to match, fueled by the pair’s undeniable chemistry and irrepressible joy. Jennings’ production work is lush but never crowded, and Yelawolf’s lyrics are utterly arresting, grappling insightfully with purpose and perseverance, struggle and triumph, pain and transcendence. Weighty as the record can feel at times, it’s ultimately a work of liberation and release, an ecstatic declaration of creative freedom fueled by adventure, discovery, and a little bit of chaos, which is precisely what Sometimes Y is all about.

BRETT ELDREDGE
November 25, 26 & 27 at 8pm CT

With holiday album Mr. Christmas released last year, platinum-selling recording artist Brett Eldredge is set to perform three back-to-back nights at the historic Ryman Auditorium as part of his Glow LIVE Holiday Tour. Mr. Christmas features the classics we all know and love alongside two originals, including the title track “Mr. Christmas.” Written by Eldredge and frequent collaborator Ross Copperman, “Mr. Christmas” showcases the celebrated singer/songwriter’s “rich, smooth vocals” (Forbes) backed by orchestral strings, a warm big band sound and pops of jingle bells, giving the listener a musical wink and a nod as though from Santa himself.

ANDREW PETERSON: BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD
December 4 & 5 at 7pm CT

Join storied Nashville singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson as he presents the Advent song cycle Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ. Now in its 23rd year, Behold the Lamb brings the singing and playing of Peterson’s original folk-roots infused rendition of the Christmas story as it is foreshadowed in the Old Testament and brought to bear in the New.

ALLMAN FAMILY REVIVAL
December 9 at 8pm CT

The Allman Family Revival is a celebration of the life, spirit, and music of Gregg Allman, hosted by his son, Blues Music Award winning Devon Allman and anchored by his group, The Devon Allman Project. On what would have been Gregg Allman’s 70th Birthday, Devon decided to gather his talented friends to pay homage musically. Musicians that had toured with Gregg, jammed with Gregg & inspired by Gregg turned up to throw down. Legends like Robin Zander of Cheap Trick showed up, wunderkind Marcus King tore the theater down, Orbison’s were in the house … a who’s who of musical talent have taken part.Now … It’s a yearly tradition, and it’s grown from an annual celebration in San Fransisco to a full fledged coast to coast tour. Based on the format of “The Last Waltz” concert featuring up to a dozen marquee names in music, it’s an epic 3 hour show unlike any other. This year we welcome Duane Betts, Donavon Frankenreiter, Maggie Rose, Jimmy Hall, Larry McCray, Alex Orbison and The River Kittens, plus, of course, more surprises to come. Don’t miss this incredible celebration of life and music, you’ll be part of the family too.

CORY WONG
February 17 at 8pm CT

As much as he treasures his roles as a guitarist, composer, and producer, Cory Wong fashions himself “a hype man,” first and foremost. Living up to this classification, he slings a Stratocaster and hurls “dad jokes” from the stage with the same panache, poise, and power. “For me, it’s all about the listener’s experience,” he explains. “I want them to have a visceral response like: ‘I feel better,’ ‘That was really fun,’ or ‘I got to escape for an hour.’ You’ll hear my voice through the guitar, but I’m just a hype man. To uplift audiences with instrumental music that has no singing or lyrics is a fun challenge. I’m trying to solve the riddle. If I can get one person to feel good this way, it’s a success. Straight out of Minneapolis, Cory positioned himself as music’s answer to motivational speakers like Tony Robbins since emerging in 2011. Head-spinning rhythm guitar wizardry, technical ebullience, laugh-out-loud jokes, and radiance on stage established him as both a sought-after collaborator and celebrated solo artist alike. He lent his talents to television programs such as The Voice at the dawn of his career. After an impromptu meeting at the weekly jam hosted by Prince’s rhythm section (where the Purple One often either performed or watched), he crossed paths with Vulfpeck who welcomed him as a frequent collaborator and member of the band. Solidifying a fruitful partnership, the group named their most popular instrumental track “Cory Wong,” in tribute. Lighting up the stage in the band everywhere from Red Rocks Amphitheatre to Madison Square Garden, he remains a cornerstone of Vulfpeck’s storied gigs.

WHERE: Ryman Auditorium, 116 REP. JOHN LEWIS WAY N., NASHVILLE, TN 37219

For additional upcoming shows and to purchase tickets, please visit ryman.com.

MALEVOLENCE - RELEASE NEW VIDEO FOR'HIGHER PLACE'+ ALTERNATIVE ACOUSTIC VERSION

With their critically acclaimed new studio album Malicious Intent, MALEVOLENCE has staked out their place as one of contemporary metal's heavyweight acts.

These rising UK stars are now out to conquer the world, undertaking a huge run of major live dates this summer and into 2023. After blowing away audiences at the likes of Download Festival UK, Knotfest Germany, and the Bring Me The Horizon Malta Weekender, following on from a UK arena tour with ARCHITECTS and SLEEP TOKENl, the British bruisers are pleased to announce more shows.

Malevolence has revealed two new headline shows this August, in Colchester (UK) and Paris (FR), before they launch into two German shows supporting LAMB OF GOD, followed by an Australian run in September with THY ART IS MURDER, CARNIFEX, and I AM. The band will also be accompanying TRIVIUM on their extensive EU tour leg, with HEAVEN SHALL BURN and OBITUARY, following on from the UK shows.

To support these dates, the band has today released a brand new video to accompany the album highlight "Higher Place". Showing off their creative breadth, the single breaks with their usual aggressive metal swagger. "Higher Place" is a show-stopping, southern groove-flavored ballad.

Front-man Alex Taylor commented,
"'Higher Place' focuses on a subject that everyone will deal with at some point in loss; death/bereavement. This is one most heartfelt songs we have written as a band, however, once we began writing this song, it came together very naturally. This song is a huge step outside our comfort zone, we hope you enjoy it!
The visuals for this song were our first venture into a narrative-driven video, filmed in our hometown of Sheffield. We worked closely with Enon Films to bring the concept to life.

Video Director Gabriel Fernández-Gil commented,
"The song inspired sorrow, drama, and a dark epicness, which is what guided us in the making of this video.
In the story, you'll be able to identify themes of loss, revenge, and the UK's knife-crime epidemic.
As the lyrics and instrumentation, our characters "ascend" to different metaphorical planes of existence or lack thereof."

To accompany the video, the band has released an alternative acoustic version of "Higher Place" digitally, giving fans yet another glimpse into MALEVOLENCE's bottomless artistic flair.

Watch the video for "Higher Place" below.
Download/stream the "Higher Place" acoustic version: https://bfan.link/Malevolence-higher-place.ema
Order Malicious Intent: https://bfan.link/Malevolence-malicious-intent.ema

Malicious Intent was recorded at Tree House Studios, UK. The record was produced by Jim Pinder and co-mixed by Jim Pinder and Carl Bown. The Malicious Intent artwork was created by renowned artist Eliran Kantor.

The undisputed Heavy Metal Kings of the UK.
In early 2020 came the highly anticipated EP release, The Other Side, introducing a brand-new side of MALEVOLENCE. Although only 3 tracks, each song showcased a depth and diversity that is uncommon in modern metal. Heart-wrenching ballads are blended perfectly with technical shredding and crushing breakdowns, effortlessly showcasing the band's talent as genuine songwriters. Despite the hard-fought success, MALEVOLENCE remains an autonomous crew. Operating from their Sheffield-based HQ, a previously derelict warehouse the band transformed themselves, MALEVOLENCE handles as much of their in-house operations as they possibly can. Including the formation and operation of MALEVOLENCE’s own label, MLVLTD Music. It was through this label that the band self-released The Other Side and although it was a first for the band, the release was a resounding success - racking up close to half a million streams on Spotify and Apple Music in its first few weeks of release.

MALEVOLENCE fans will know that their records come few and far between. Emerging onto the scene in 2013 with their debut album Reign of Suffering, which is currently climbing above 2.15 million streams on Spotify. Released as teenagers, the level of song crafting skill stands the test of time and remains a defining moment in the band’s career. The next four years had MALEVOLENCE grinding their way through the European continent, gaining recognition as one of the hottest prospects in this new wave of international heavy metal. 2017’s Self Supremacy saw the Sheffield quintet selling out club shows all over Europe, the USA, and Southeast Asia/Japan. This in turn has earned them a cult-like following of die-hard fans, who wear the MALEVOLENCE logo on their clothing like a medal of honor.

Now waiting with brand-new album Malicious Intent and plans to tour amongst some of the biggest names in heavy music, MALEVOLENCE is poised to become the next legacy name in all of heavy music.

MALEVOLENCE is:
Alex Taylor | Vocals
Konan Hall | Guitar / Vocals
Josh Baines | Guitar
Wilkie Robinson | Bass
Charlie Thorpe | Drums

KURT DEIMER FINISHES NEW FILM, ‘HELLBILLY HOLLOW,’ ANNOUNCES SHOWS WITH TESLA

Rocker Kurt Deimer continues to further his fast-rising career.

In addition to recently wrapping up live shows in support of his debut EP ‘Work Hard Rock Hard’ - which he recorded with his bandmate, creative partner and Bon Jovi guitarist Phil X – the multi-talented Deimer will soon unleash his horror film franchise on the world. “My debut feature film, which I star in, is called ‘Hellbilly Hollow’,” says the actor/singer. “I was in ‘Trading Paint’ with John Travolta, and I was in ‘Halloween’ in 2018, where I was killed by Michael Myers. I had so much fun on those movies, I decided to flush out these ideas I had and do my own franchise – now ‘Hellbilly Hollow’ is finally ready for the world!”

Fans of Deimer’s music shouldn’t be concerned with him focusing solely on film, as he is impatiently waiting for the next tour to be lined up. “I cannot stand sitting at home not knowing when my next show is, I’m ready to play! This is rock n’ roll, and the best way to build our fanbase is to be out there in front of them. It’s so hard to grab people’s attention over social media and amidst all the chaos of the world – the best way to turning them on to what we do is getting people out to live shows.”

The feedback from the audiences that Deimer has played in front of has been outstanding. “Every time we play, we turn folks in the crowd into our fans. I go to the merch booth and sign autographs, take pictures and selfies, and people are always saying how refreshing we are, how unique we are. The biggest challenge I face in this business is everybody tells me I have to fit in this kind of niche, and I’m my own guy, we’re our own band, and we have our own unique sound – but we’re still a rock band, like AC/DC and Van Halen. All we need to do is play for people, and they realize what we’re all about.” And in September, Deimer will be opening a string of shows for Tesla in the US. Ticket info can be accessd here: https://kurtdeimer.com/pages/tour

Deimer’s new single, “Hero,” recently went to mainstream rock radio and received early support from WIIL in Chicago and saw regional success in the northeast. Additionally, there are more than 1.5 million combined YouTube views across his five official video releases.

Although it’s been less than a year since Kurt made his debut, he’s already amassing quite the highlight reel. “I met Geoff Tate, he gave me a chance and gave me my first tour, and he was in a music video with me. He was on the song ‘Burn Together’ on ‘Work Hard Rock Hard,’ and he totally gave me an opportunity – like somebody probably gave him back in the day. Second highlight: going out on the Yngwie Malmsteen tour and winning over fans. He’s a shredder, and we came out and did our brand of rock, and I think we complimented each other very well. Another highlight was bringing my demo to L.A. and Chris Lord-Alge thinking it was good enough and seeing potential in me. He discovered me and took me under his wing. And yet another highlight was Chris bringing me and Phil X together to do our first song as a team, a cover of Pink Floyd’s ‘Have a Cigar.’ Now, Phil X and I are great friends and we’re on a mission together for the rest of our lives.”

Kurt’s future plans? “Tour, tour, tour, tour... We’re working on some really cool stage productions. We want to continue towards our goal of bringing our unique style around the world and play for people and make differences in people’s lives. We want to give back to the communities we play in, give back to those who risk their lives for us - veterans, our military and first responders - and just continue to build as a rock band, grow, and mature.”

TESLA/KURT DEIMER TOUR DATES

Fri, SEP 09 ​ House of Blues Dallas ​​​ Dallas, TX

Sat, SEP 10 ​ House of Blues Houston ​​​ Houston, TX

Mon, SEP 12 ​ Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center ​ Midland, TX

Tue, SEP 13 ​Lubbock Memorial Civic Center ​​ Lubbock, TX

Thu, SEP 15 ​ Aztec Theatre ​​​​​ San Antonio, TX

Sun, SEP 18 ​ House of Blues New Orleans ​​​ New Orleans, LA

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

https://kurtdeimer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Kurtdeimer/
https://www.instagram.com/kurtdeimer/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL6KPMciDWxiJ9WWq8EnqPAhttps://twitter.com/KurtDeimer

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5t1tBb8ShSZEzTLswotwPN?si=oqDKYB7WTxuuZ4mi6vUjgA
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kurt-deimer/1452104095

LORD OF THE LOST Releases New Video for Cover of Iron Maiden’s “Children Of The Damned”

Featuring Footage of European Summer Tour with Iron Maiden!

German genre-fusing visionaries LORD OF THE LOST recently finished  up their summer tour of Europe with the legendary Iron Maiden! As one their biggest performances so far, the band conquered the stages of Europe’s largest metropolises. Now, to round off the end of the tour, the band has revealed a brand new video for their recent cover of Iron Maiden’s “Children of the Damned”, cut from their The Heartbeat Of The Devil EP released earlier this year. The video includes footage of some of the tour’s most electrifying moments, paying homage to Iron Maiden and their experiences together on tour. In total, LORD OF THE LOST played 18 concerts with Iron Maiden in 16 countries for over half a million people. Fans can celebrate this great achievement and experience the band’s thrilling road adventures with the “Children of the Damned” video - out now!

Watch the Video for “Children of the Damned” 

The Heartbeat Of The Devil EP begins with the single version of “The Heartbeat of The Devil”, and closes with a striking piano version of the same song. Rounding out the center of the EP are three cover versions of iconic songs: “Children Of The Damned” by Iron Maiden, who LORD OF THE LOST supported on 18 dates of the band’s European tour after the release of the EP, “Judas” by Lady Gaga and “Wig In A Box” from famed rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch. These iconic songs are reinvented and transformed by the dark atmosphere of LORD OF THE LOST’s trademark sound.

The Heartbeat Of The Devil follows both JUDAS (2021, #2 GER) and Thornstar (2018, #6 GER), which repeatedly solidified LORD OF THE LOST as visionaries unafraid to express themselves outside of the norm. Their nonconformism is undoubtedly a key point of their attraction and distinction, and their sophisticated sonic universe sets them apart from all other bands in the genre -- manifesting as controversial in the best possible way.

LORD OF THE LOST on The Heartbeat Of The Devil:                   

“With the pandemic and the unplanned free time – you can spontaneously record three cover versions of songs that move you at the moment. But why these three songs? "Judas" by Lady Gaga should be self-explanatory due to the title overlap with our current album. "Children Of The Damned" is a nod to our summer tour hosts Iron Maiden, who booked us as a support band. And "Wig In A Box"... well, if you don't know the movie musical 'Hedwig And The Angry Inch', you should definitely change that. We saw the movie one day and one of us yelled, 'let's cover that song!' - and as it always is with us, every spontaneous idea is put into action. Or at least it's tried."

Order The Heartbeat Of The Devil NOW

LORD OF THE LOST are:

Chris Harms - vocals, guitar, cello

Pi Stoffers - guitar

Class Grenayde - bass

Gared Dirge - piano, synthesizer, percussion, guitar

Niklas Kahl - drums

LORD OF THE LOST online:

WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

NAPALM RECORDS

LORD SHOP

BELPHEGOR - Release Bizarre Video For Title Track Of New Album The Devils!

Diabolical black/death metal squadron BELPHEGOR are proud to unveil a bizarre music video for the punishing title track of their recently released new album, The Devils.

YOU CAN WATCH THE VIDEO FOR "THE DEVILS" BELOW

BELPHEGOR's twelfth full-length proves to be one of the strongest and most elaborate records in the group’s career. Mixed & mastered at renowned Fascination Street Studiosby Jens Bogren, The Devils sounds absolutely crushing and dynamic, sonically pushing the immense variety of the eight tracks to new heights.

Rounded off by impressive artwork created by Seth Siro Anton, The Devils marks the band’s fourth collaboration with one of metal’s most talented and prolific art workers. Ultimately, The Devils is an album that musically builds upon BELPHEGOR’s trademark sound, in essence, a combination of traditional death and black metal deeply rooted in the 90s, yet boasts intricate compositions and detailed arrangements underlining their outstanding position within the international extreme metal circuit.

Blending German, Latin, and English lyrics, the lead single 'Totentanz – Dance Macabre' is as ferocious as it gets with its insane barrage of blast beats, spiteful lyrics, and sinister guitar melodies. 'Glorifizierung des Teufels' (‘Glorification of the Devil’) and 'Virtus Asinaria –Prayer' offer epic, mid-paced grandeur, chanted vocals, and choirs adding new shades of black to their stylistic palette. The title track or 'Damnation – Höllensturz' proves to be a more complex piece, shifting moods and tempos with ease and expanding BELPHEGOR’s blasphemous onslaught with fascinating twists and turns.

BUY OR LISTEN TO THE ALBUM "THE DEVILS": https://belphegor.bfan.link/the-devils

HELMUTH comments:
„Hail! I think the greatest strength of this twelfth BELPHEGOR album is the many new elements incorporated into our unrelenting sound wall, which illuminates the offering shine with an evil ritualistic light. We tried to push the boundaries as musicians and as a band to bring the eight sound collages to a new level of “Diabolical Black Death Metal” extremity. An intense atmosphere was our goal.

"THE DEVILS” is the perfect demonstration of how we wanted to sound in the year 2022, every aspect expressing what we seek within BELPHEGOR! In Musick, Helmuth"

DIOSA Premiere Lyric Video for New Single "Waves"

Hard Rock outfit DIOSA are thrilled to share the first single from their soon-to-be-announced EP. The Houston-based quartet dropped their new track, "Waves", last Friday – and have partnered with Ghost Cult Magazine to premiere the lyric video. Fans can check out the video premiere for "Waves"

About DIOSA:

Born from a series of eclectic tastes over time to form the sound they have today, the boys Justin (vocals, guitar), Tyler (bass), and Luis (guitar) knew from a young age that music was something they always wanted to pursue. While the band's rocky journey has been constantly tried and tested, DIOSA made those life-changing moments count by sharing them through their music.

DIOSA isn't the kind of band that serves to please others when it comes to shaping their sound. The band has a vast range of influences that span artists like Megadeth, Iron Maiden, Van Halen, Avenged Sevenfold, ZZ Top, BadReligion, Blink 182, Danzig, Def Leppard, Volbeat, Alice In Chains, HIM, Velvet Revolver, STP, Bryan Adams, and Brian Setzer - to name a few. From these artists, the band drew inspiration from their wide-ranging tastes and molded them together within the realm of modern alternative with stabs of classic rock.

Stream "WAVES" Here!

DIOSA Lineup:

Justin Vincent Estrada – Vocals, Guitar

Julian Cruz – Drums

Luis Torres – Lead Guitar

Tyler Rix – Bass

MOONSPELL To Embark on 30th Anniversary North American Tour This Month!

Kicking Off August 25th in New York City

Portuguese dark metal masters MOONSPELL are returning to North America for the first time in five years! Celebrating three decades of evocative and mesmerizing music, the band will bring their "American Full Moon" tour to the US and Canada. Joining the band for the North American leg of shows are Swallow The Sun and Witherfall, with the trek kicking off in New York City on August 25th and concluding on September 18th in Boston, MA. A complete list of dates can be seen below.

Watch the video for "Entitlement" from the upcoming live BluRay/DVD 'From Down Below – Live 80 Meters Deep' (Out September 23 - PRE-ORDER)

MOONSPELL are touring North America in support of their upcoming BluRay/DVD and album release via Napalm Records! September 23, 2022 will see the release of their latest studio album, Hermitage (2021), in its live form, entitled From Down Below – Live 80 Meters Deep. Recorded live at Grutas de Mira D'Aire, one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders, From Down Below – Live 80 Meters Deep invites you on a memorable adventure worthy of a Guinness Book record. The recording boasts a one of kind sound and visual sensation, with its heavy dose of cinematic flavor, unreal atmosphere and the encircling, resounding nature in its raw form. Tracks such as "Entitlement", "Hermitage" and “Apoptheghmata” perfectly settle in with the album‘s unique environment.

From Down Below – Live 80 Meters Deep is not only an epic live momentum of Hermitage - one of the deepest, heaviest and most sincerely heart-breaking records the band has ever written - but a truly revolutionary experience, as MOONSPELL brought along a select number of fans and a production team (literally) underground. Brilliantly directed by Guilherme Henrique, From Down Below – Live 80 Meters Deep is something truly special that you have never, ever seen or heard before.

MOONSPELL "American Full Moon" Tour Dates:

Aug 25 - New York, NY @ Le Poisson Rouge

Aug 26 - Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage

Aug 27 - Greensboro, NC @ The Blind Tiger

Aug 28 - Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Heaven)

Aug 29 - Orlando, FL @ The Haven

Aug 31 - Houston, TX @ Scout Bar

Sep 1 - Austin, TX @ Come and Take it Live

Sep 2 - Dallas, TX @ Trees

Sep 4 - Mesa, AZ @ Nile Theater

Sep 5 - San Diego, CA @ Brick by Brick

Sep 6 - Los Angeles, CA @ 1720

Sep 7 - Sacramento, CA @ Goldfield Trading Post

Sep 8 - Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom

Sep 9 - Seattle, WA @ Substation

Sep 11- Denver, CO @ Marquis Theater

Sep 12 - Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theater

Sep 13 - Joliet, IL @ The Forge

Sep 14 - Indianapolis, IN @ Irving Theater

Sep 15 - Toronto, ON @ Lee's Palace

Sep 16 - Montreal, QC @ Cafe Campus

Sep 17 - Quebec City, QC @ Source de la Martinière

Sep 18 - Boston, MA @ Middle East Downstairs

Sleep Signals Announce First Tour After Devastating Bus Crash..... 'The Return Of' Tour This Fall!

Minneapolis hard rock quintet, Sleep Signals have announced that they will be hitting the road this fall on 'The Return Of ' tour. This is the first tour for the band since their devastating bus wreck that happened a year ago leaving some of the band members will debilitating injuries. The tour will kick off on September 29, 2022 in Redmond, OR at General Duffy's Waterhole.

"I'd be lying if I said we're excited to be in a bus again after severity of the wreck and our injuries a year ago, but I know the second we step back on stage and feel the love and energy of the crowd, it will be worth it. The most amazing part of tour has been and always will be meeting our fans and sharing that short moment together on stage and it's something we've all been looking forward to as we heal and deal with all obstacles the wreck presented us with. We cannot wait to see all of you very soon," says the band's frontman Robert Cosgrove.

Recently, the band released their haunting new video for single "The Return." The single is from their EP, Ethereal.

WATCH "The Return" below

Stream/Download "The Return" here:

https://music.sleepsignals.net/thereturn

Sleep Signals have garnered a dedicated following through relentless touring, their explosive live performances, and their ability to blend catchy hooks with their high-energy songwriting style.

In 2021 the band released a new EP, Ethereal, featuring the single, "Fireproof,"which garnered the band's first commercial radio success. The single was featured on Sirius XM's Octane and received spins on 80+ US FM radio stations, spending 11 weeks on the Billboard Active Rock radio chart.

Unfortunately, 2021 also saw the band experience a severe bus accident on tour with POD, From Ashes To New, and All Good Things that left several members in the hospital and rehabbing injuries for months. The band released the music video for "The Return" to commemorate their comeback from the accident and look to get back to the touring circuit as soon as late 2022.

Founded in 2014, the band hit the road in early 2015 and has since played over 500 shows in 45 states. Prior to the accident, the band was coming off of major full US tours with heavy hitters Hellyeah and Nonpoint, as well as Atreyu, Memphis May Fire, Ice Nine Kills, All That Remains, Attila, Escape the Fate, and Like A Storm.

“Sleep Signals embodies the same DIY hustling ethic that Ice Nine Kills has used since the beginning. Great songs, and a work ethic that is quickly making this band stand out" says Spencer Charnas of (Ice Nine Kills).

Alex Varkatzas (Ex-Atreyu) adds, “Seeing Sleep Signals' tireless work ethic and energetic live shows nightly, it’s only a matter of time before this band is a household name."

Sleep Signals are:
Robert Cosgrove
Grant Evans
Jay Lucero
Travis Wheeler
Wyatt Henderson

Sleep Signals - The Return Of Tour:

9.29.22 Redmond, OR

9.30.22 Kennewick, WA

10.2.22 Salt Lake City, UT

10.6.22 Grants Pass, OR

10.7.22 Vancouver, WA

10.8.22 Takoma, WA

10.9.22 Okanogan, WA

For More Information Please Visit:

http://sleepsignals.net

https://www.facebook.com/sleepsignals/

https://www.instagram.com/sleepsignals/

https://twitter.com/sleepsignals

CROWNE ANNOUNCES NEW LIVE EP "LIVE FROM STUDIO GRÖNDAHL"

CROWNE ANNOUNCES NEW LIVE EP

"LIVE FROM STUDIO GRÖNDAHL" OUT AUGUST 19, 2022

PREVIEW SINGLE & VIDEO, 'KINGS IN THE NORTH' OUT NOW

SECOND ALBUM CURRENTLY BEING PREPARED

Sweden's Crowne will release a special new live EP, "Live From Studio Gröndahl" on August 19, 2022. The release is a little treat to hold fans over while they await the release of the band's second album, which is currently in the works. A live performance of 'Kings In The North' from the EP is available now on all digital platforms. Watch a video of the performance below.

Pre-order/save "Live From Studio Gröndahl", a digital only release, HERE: https://orcd.co/crownelive 

In 2021, Sweden's Crowne unleashed their debut album “Kings In The North”, which fully delivered on the promise of the combination of the members' pedigrees. Comprised of vocalist Alexander Strandell (Art Nation), guitarist/keyboardist/producer Jona Tee (H.E.A.T.), bassist John Levén (Europe), and drummer Christian Lundqvist (The Poodles), the debut was a true tour de force of Scandinavian melodic hard rock. The debut album also featured Love Magnusson (Dynazty) providing guitar solos and as the band commences work on a follow-up, Magnusson has fully joined the fold as the band's lead guitarist. 

While fans eagerly await the arrival of the band's follow-up album, the band gathered in the studio to record a special live EP, "Live From Studio Gröndahl". Featuring the now five-piece band tearing through five incredible tracks from "Kings In The North", this EP allows the fans to hear (and see, in the accompanying video performance) a glimpse of the band playing live together in an intimate setting. 

Crowne is hands-down the most exciting, thrilling supergroup ever created out of the Swedish melodic hard rock scene. This stellar cast of some of the most outstanding musicians from the scene gathered together to create an absolute beast of a debut album, "King In The North". And now they are working diligently to best themselves with a follow-up. We have no doubt they will succeed....

Be sure to follow the band's social media for updates about the forthcoming new album.

Line-up:

Alexander Strandell – Lead Vocals

Love Magnusson – Guitar

Jona Tee – Guitar/Keyboards/Backing Vocals

John Levén - Bass

Christian “Kicken” Lundqvist – Drums

Introducing Of Sullivan, New Single "Apologies" + Official Music Video Out Now via TLG/INgrooves

"Apologies takes you on a journey through the eyes of regret. You feel every emotion from sadness to rage as the story seems to be stuck in a vicious cycle. With soaring melodies and intricate flowing guitar riffs, the story unfolds into a feeling of a hope that is lost and a love that was torn away," says Scottie Somerville, producer.

While seeking purpose during the worldwide pandemic, a passion project quickly grew into a serious undertaking by previous tour mates, Trent Sullivan and David Redding Jolly. Of Sullivanproduces dynamic songs, drawing influence from rock, jazz,metal, and even electronic sounds. Down-tuned guitars, melodic piano, gritty vocals, and big-room drums lay the musical foundation for You Never Know. Arriving in 2022, the debut EP is a unique approach to popular music, with no regard for genre-specific dogma.

"Apologies" is available at:

https://ffm.to/ofsullivan

For more Information Please Visit:

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Restless Road Named Opry NextStage Artist for August

First Band To Join NextStage Program

New Performances and Interviews Featured All Month on Opry Channels

Today, the Grand Ole Opry announced the latest addition to its Opry NextStage Class of 2022 with breakthrough trio Restless Road, who will be the first band to be part of the NextStage program. Restless Road is the fourth act to join the 2022 class that includes Elvie Shane, Morgan Wade and BRELAND. Restless Road will make their NextStage debut with an Opry performance on August 20.

Developed by the Grand Ole Opry, NextStage is an artist discovery program that spotlights Country music’s rising talent and highlights one artist per month with featured original content created by Opry Entertainment Groups award-winning team, an Opry performance and support across the Opry Entertainment platforms, which include the Opry, Ryman Auditorium, WSM Radio, Ole Red and Circle Network. Additional artists will be announced in the coming months to complete the year with a total of seven artists.

Made up of three different but complementary voices, Restless Road is a powerhouse country band with one of the most auspicious breakout stories of 2020. Capturing the ear of country superstar Kane Brown, he signed the trio to his own label imprint, 1021 Entertainment. Praised by People, Taste of Country, Billboard and more, the trio’s powerhouse harmonies and soul-baring lyrics put them on numerous 2021 “Ones to Watch” lists, as members Zach Beeken, Colton Pack, and Garrett Nichols continue to rack up millions of on-demand streams.

Restless Road said, “We’re are beyond grateful to be chosen as an Opry NextStage Artist. Growing up we watched our country music heroes perform on the Opry stage, and that inspired us to keep going and chase our dreams even when it felt impossible. It means the world to us to be recognized by the Grand Ole Opry family, and we couldn’t be more excited to be a small part of Opry history.”

With a pulse on what is next in the Country music format and a deep commitment to supporting burgeoning talent, the program has cemented a strong track record in just three short years. The two previous NextStage classes have featured artists such as Parker McCollum, Lainey Wilson, Riley Green and Tenille Townes who all went on to earn ACM New Male and Female Artist of the Year trophies following their Opry NextStage debuts.

NextStage launched in 2019 with an inaugural class that included Green, Tegan Marie, Townes and Travis Denning. Last year’s class included Priscilla Block, McCollum, Niko Moon, Jameson Rodgers, Hailey Whitters, Wilson and Yola. For more information on Opry NextStage, visit opry.com/nextstage.

About Opry NextStage
Developed by Opry Entertainment Group and the Grand Ole Opry, Opry NextStage, presented by Geico, invests in the discovery of new artists and highlights one up-and-coming artist per month with featured original content, an Opry performance and support across the brand’s platforms to tell their stories and expand their audiences. For nearly a century, the Grand Ole Opry has created opportunities for artists throughout the Country music spectrum to make strong connections with fans and fellow artists – on its stages and across its channels – from terrestrial radio to network television to the digital universe and to Circle Network. Audiences around the world look to the Opry to showcase the very best in Country music.

About the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry presents the best in country music live every week from Nashville, Tenn. The Opry can be heard at opry.com and wsmonline.com, Opry and WSM mobile apps, SiriusXM, and its flagship home, 650 AM-WSM. The Grand Ole Opry is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties (NYSE:RHP). For more information, visit opry.com.

About Restless Road
Made up of three different but complementary voices, country band Restless Road is “one of the most intriguing and exciting acts of the year” (Wide Open Country). Praised by People, Taste of Country, Billboard, and more, the trio’s powerhouse harmonies and soul-baring lyrics put them on numerous 2021 “Ones to Watch” lists, as members Zach Beeken, Colton Pack, and Garrett Nichols continue to rack up millions of streams. As NBC’s Today Show host Hoda Kotb put it: “That harmony…you feel it in your soul.” Since Zach and Colton joined forces after meeting on a singing competition (where they met future collaborator Kane Brown), Restless Road has stood out as one of the genre’s premier vocal forces. When Garrett came onboard in 2015, they knew they had something special. In February 2020, the trio unveiled their debut self-titled EP, which includes “Take Me Home,” featuring Kane Brown. A short year later, they dropped their track, “Took One Look At Her Momma,” which American Songwriter praised for its “captivating melody and lyrics that those in a relationship could benefit from hearing.” They recently released their tracks “Bar Friends,” “Hometown Tonight,” and “Headlights.” On January 21, 2022 they released “Growing Old With You” which topped the U.S. iTunes Country Charts for over 1 week, which they also performed as a feature on ABC’s The Bachelor. 2021 saw Restless Road on the road with Kane Brown as support on his “Blessed & Free Tour,” and their first headline tour, the “Bar Friends Tour” will commence on April 6, 2022. With all signs indicating Restless Road is a contender for best new vocal group, its members continue to write, sing, and perform together as they take the next steps down country music’s long and winding road.

BLACK ANVIL Announces New Album, Unveils First Single

New York City black metal collective BLACK ANVIL will be releasing their fifth full-length, 'Regenesis,' on November 4, 2022 via Season of Mist, making it the band's debut to the label! The band is now revealing the tracklisting, artwork, and additional album details, which can be found below! In conjunction with the announcement, the band is now sharing the pummeling first single from the offering, "Castrum Doloris," along with a disorienting visualizer! The song can be heard below.

BLACK ANVIL comments on the track:

"A reckoning of the final order avoiding the tunnel vision of fear when releasing into the void & utmost holy channel.

"Wear the funeral crown with pride thus-forth."

Pre-orders for 'Regenesis' are now live HERE while the album can be pre-saved on all streaming services HERE.

In addition, BLACK ANVIL will be supporting CANNIBAL CORPSE along with DARK FUNERAL and IMMOLATION later this year! The trek will kick off on November 3 in Silver Springs, MD and will conclude on December 10 in Tampa, FL. The band will also be performing at the Denver, CO edition ofDecibel Magazine's Metal & Beer Fest on December 2!

Tickets are on sale now! The full run of dates and ticket links can be found below!

BLACK ANVIL Live Dates (w/ CANNIBAL CORPSE, DARK FUNERAL, IMMOLATION)

11/03: Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore [TICKETS]

11/04: Albany, NY @ Empire Live [TICKETS]

11/05: Montreal, QC @ MTelus [TICKETS // BILLETS]

11/06: Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall [TICKETS]

11/08: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theatre [TICKETS]

11/09: Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart's [TICKETS]

11/10: Ft Wayne, IN @ Piere's Entertainment Center [TICKETS]

11/11: Joliet, IL @ The Forge [TICKETS]

11/12: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave II [TICKETS]

11/15: Calgary, AB @ Palace Theatre [TICKETS]

11/17: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre [TICKETS]

11/18: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre [TICKETS]

11/19: Seattle, WA @ The Showbox [TICKETS]

11/21: San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom [TICKETS]

11/22: Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern [TICKETS]

11/23: San Diego, CA @ The Observatory [TICKETS]

11/25: Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues [TICKETS]

11/26: Tucson, AZ @ Encore [TICKETS]

11/28: Austin, TX @ Empire Garage [TICKETS]

11/29: Dallas, TX @ House of Blues [TICKETS]

11/30: Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom [TICKETS]

12/02: Denver, CO @ Decibel Metal & Beer Fest* [TICKETS]

12/03: Lawrence , KS @ The Granada [TICKETS]

12/04: Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre [TICKETS]

12/05: Belvidere, IL @ The Apollo Theater [TICKETS]

12/06: Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue [TICKETS]

12/08: Knoxville, TN @ The Concourse at the International [TICKETS]

12/09: Athens, GA @ Georgia Theatre [TICKETS]

12/10: St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live [TICKETS]
*Festival date

New York City has always served as a cultural epicenter for musical innovation. Even more so than incubating genres in their infancy such as hardcore and even glam metal, for which bands like Twisted Sister and KISS long set the stage before the Sunset Strip took the reigns, the empire state has a storied and unique history of taking genres whose roots lie elsewhere and making them its own; whether it be Anthrax reinventing Bay Area thrash, Suffocation and Immolation planting their flag as death metal purveyors at a time when it was a primary export of Florida, or bands like Blondie and the Ramones rivaling the British punk scene, the city has always been at the forefront of musical excellence. And when it comes to New York’s answer to black metal, Black Anvil have not only been a driving force for USBM, but have taken the black metal genre as a whole and made it entirely their own. Now, with full-length number five, the band has once again leveled up their game, presenting a “regenesis” of black metal.

Here you have 12 tracks of unrelenting yet thought provoking evil, sure to have you take a second & thoroughly re-examined view of what you thought black metal was supposed to be. “This is a more stripped down and aggressive song writing approach. Having time to digest ‘As Was,’ to understand where we were then versus where we are now was key. We always focus inward with our writing, never wanting to repeat ourselves, while also not losing our identity in a stretch to sound different,” explains Black Anvil bassist/vocalist P.

Challenging the norm has always been a core part of Black Anvil’s DNA since their formation in 2007. Upon the release of their debut full-length, Time Insults the Mind, the band quickly garnered the attention of Relapse Records and were presented with a deal. When it came to album number two, the band diverged from the typical approach of their contemporaries and sought an unlikely counterpart to render their vision, tapping engineer “General” George Fullan (The Rolling Stones, Dream Theater) at Mark “The Animal” Mendoza’s (Twisted Sister) Diamond Drop Studio on Long Island, NY. Released in September 2010, sophomore offering Triumvirate received much critical acclaim, notably being revered as an "all-around monster metal album."

Four years after its release, Triumvirate was followed by Hail Death, a 70-minute journey of intensity that further established Black Anvil as a modern black metal powerhouse. The album was met with praise by publications including Noisey, Pitchfork, Stereogum, Metal Injection, and many more. With the album’s success, the band’s profile rose as they were tapped to participate in numerous prominent tours with black metal legends such as Mayhem, Watain, Urfaust, Marduk as well as dates with Aura Noir, Nachtmystium, Immortal, Eyehategod, Cannibal Corpse, etc. Additionally, the band has appeared at various prestigious festivals including the Scion Rock Fest, Beyond The Gates in Bergen, Norway and the renowned Roadburn Festival in The Netherlands.

In 2017, Black Anvil dropped their fourth studio-album, As Was. Atmospheric and melodic without relenting on any of the ferocity that the collective has always been known for, As Was seamlessly weaves through eight monumental passages of extreme metal art, more diverse, complex, and thought-provoking than anything they've done before. The record proved itself to be a stellar representation of modern black metal and of Black Anvil’s continuous progression and songcraft.

Now, nearly six years after As Was made its mark, Black Anvil is returning with its aptly titled fifth full-length, Regenesis. With a new record label, a new album, and a newfound exploration of dark and black metal, Regenesisrepresents a new dawn for the New York City collective. “The concept is renewal, as well as the process/journey to get here outgrowing our past,” explains P. “Black Anvil has always been a departure from our past, a vehicle for us to grow as individuals, like a snake constantly shedding its skin. We don’t look  back, but never forget.”

Make no mistake, Regenesis is not a departure from Black Anvil’s identity, but rather serves as the latest progression in the band’s ever-evolving sound. The record takes what As Was did best and does it even better. The unrelenting and polished aggression hangs in the balance above dark melodic passages, presenting a dynamic soundscape that serves as the band’s most devastating and existential offering to date. As it’s evident that the band pulls inspiration from unlikely corners, they defy all genre standards and make one thing clear - this isn’t just black metal, this is NYBM.

Genre: New York Black Metal 

Line-up: 
R: Drums
P: Bass/Vocals
J: Guitar

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/BlackAnvil/
https://www.instagram.com/blackanvil/
https://twitter.com/BlackAnvil
https://blackanvil.bandcamp.com/
https://blackanvilmerch.bigcartel.com/

Recording: Colin Marston at Menegroth, The Thousand Caves

Mixing + Mastering: by Tore Stjerna at Necromorbus Studio

Guest vocals:
Danny “Ezec” Diablo on “NYC Nightmares”

Artwork: Metastazis, Paris

Pre-sales: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/BlackAnvil

Pre-save: https://orcd.co/blackanvilregen

Kingsmen Drop New Single + Music Video For "Bitter Half" via Sharptone Records

Providence, RI quintet Kingsmen have unleashed their latest single and music video for "Bitter Half" via Sharptone Records. Speaking on today's release, the band shares:

"There’s always a good guy and bad guy.

Every story has one.

Every person has an inner voice speaking on behalf of each side.

Every idea you create involves them.

More often than not, the bad guy in our minds seems like a big scary monster.

They’re intimidating.

They can be enticing.

They can make things seem too easy.

They can cheat you out of a great opportunity by offering the coward's way out.

They can make you feel weak.

'Bitter Half' is about knowing you’ve been taken advantage of by that 'devil on your shoulder’.

It’s about standing up and saying enough is enough.

It’s time to move on.

It’s time to become better.

It’s time to say “fuck you” to your bitter half.“

Prior to today's drop, Kingsmen have previously released the music video for "Trial By Fire", the band's first new, original release since their 2020 debut album, 'Revenge. Forgiveness. Recovery'. Watch the music video for "Bitter Half" below, stream the track here, and be sure to stay tuned for more Kingsmen news coming soon.

ABOUT KINGSMEN

Setting their sights on achieving what they’ve dubbed a “big metal sound that fills up your whole brain when listening to it between the headphones,” Providence, RI five-piece Kingsmen are back, ushering in the dawning of a new era for the band.

Returning with new influences, locations, producers, and creative process compared to their 2020 debut, 'Revenge. Forgiveness. Recovery', things were naturally bound to change. The point of a successful evolution is becoming the best version of oneself. And to do so, remaining true to one’s core elements is a vital factor. As a result, the band didn’t aim for a trend, they made a point to return to their roots. Reflecting on his classical training, frontman, Tanner Guimond even found himself rediscovering a singing voice he felt he had left in the past long ago but was destined to revisit.

Choosing to return to their roots, the band embrace the fighting spirit at the core of Kingsmen, connecting with listeners through universal themes and lyrical stories ranging from championing positivity to coming together in the face of adversity. Shining light and hope into all they do is something the band has no intention of changing. As Guimond eloquently puts it,

“To be a kingsman is to be someone that has the courage to endure the worst, but still reflect the best parts of humanity. So, with all of our songs, that’s what we try and showcase. There’s no way that anyone will go through life without experiencing some terrible things. But to grow from that… to become a better person after the fact is, we believe, one of the true purposes of life. Maybe someday we’ll do something wild like a concept album with ogres and elves. But we really believe that when you’re conveying your emotions through music, it comes across when you’re being honest. So as often as we can, and as many different ways possible, there’s no doubt that you’ll see a lot more of that kind of attitude through our music in the future.”

Kingsmen Are:

Tanner Guimond - Vocals

Tim Lucier - Guitar

Nick Gilbert - Guitar

Adam Bakelman - Bass

Mike Perrotta - Drums

TRAUMA PARTS WAYS WITH BASSIST GREG CHRISTIAN, NEW MUSIC RELEASE ‘AWAKENING’ SET FOR SEPTEMBER 9TH

Bay Area thrash metal band TRAUMA has parted ways with bassist, Greg Christian, after both parties came to a mutual decision and wish Greg all the best in his musical undertakings. Greg played bass on the band’s last two albums ‘As The World Dies’ and ‘Awakening’. TRAUMA’s new album ‘Awakening’ will be coming out on September 9th via Massacre Records and can be pre-ordered via this link: https://lnk.to/trauma-awakening

Michael Spencer, formerly with Flotsam and Jetsam/Sentinel Beast, has stepped in for the band’s appearances at the Little Devil Club on August 13th and the Alcatraz Festival on August 14th.

“I’ve done shows in the past with both Brian and Joe and had a copy of ‘As The World Dies’, the band’s 2018 release,” says Spencer, best known for being the bassist to fill the unexpected void in Flotsam, after Jason Newsted quickly left the band for Metallica. “So when Brian called to see I’d be interested in helping the band fill their open bass spot for some European dates, after sending me few advanced tracks off TRAUMA’s new album ‘Awakening’, I was in. Pretty impressive music coming from the guys that will be a blast to play live at Alcatraz Metal Festival, hopefully hanging with a few of my Belgian and Dutch friends.”

And TRAUMA is excited about playing on stage with Michael. "We are delighted to have Michael Spencer onboard for these shows."

In addition to Brian Allen (vocals), TRAUMA’s line-up that recorded ‘Awakening’ features Joe Fraulob (guitar), Steve Robello (guitar), Greg Christian (bass), and Kris Gustofson (drums). ‘Awakening’ was produced by Juan Urteaga and features artwork by Ioannis.

Originally formed in 1981 in San Francisco, TRAUMA was one of the first heavy metal bands – along with Exodus, Metallica, and Testament – to trailblaze the style now known as “thrash.” And the thrash metal band’s original bassist was none other than the late/legendary Cliff Burton (who would later join Metallica). 1984 saw the release of the group’s debut album ‘Scratch and Scream,’ before the band parted in 1985. But in 2013, Trauma reunited and have been back in business ever since.

“I am very excited that we are at a point of new music coming out to the metal fans,” says Gustofson. “This album was recorded during a very strange time and was almost off the table. We were lucky to have Brian Allen join the band and make the new album possible. Am hopeful the fans of thrash metal will sink their teeth into the AWAKENING! It is a feast for all!”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

facebook.com/TraumaThrash

instagram.com/traumametal

twitter.com/trauma_theband