Holissstik Premiere Debut Album Chapter I: This Endless Solitude

As a founding member of the critically acclaimed Manes and Lethe, Tor-Helge Skei has pushed the boundaries of both black metal and electronic music. Now, after more than 30 years, he’s expanding his vision like never before with Holissstik, a dark collective experiment that features fellow underground legends and rising stars from the avant-garde.

Chapter I: This Endless Solitude comes out tomorrow, Friday, August 14, but you can hear all eight endlessly rewarding songs today by listening to the full album stream below.

“The inspiration for Holissstik comes from the Greek word Hólos, which is the root for the English word ‘whole’”, Skei says. “Collaboration is the heart and soul of this project. The idea is that each part cannot exist or be understood when separated from the whole. The sum is greater than its parts”.  

Pre-order & Stream

https://orcd.co/holissstiktheendlesssolitude

As could only be the case, Holissstik’s opening chapter started with Skei alone at his studio. But after meticulously sketching This Endless Solitude with his collection of guitars, recording software and homemade plug-ins, he allowed outside influences to take control. The album features more than 15 collaborators, including Martyna Hallas (Rage of Light), Marita Hellem (Martyra), French rapper Pierre Ripka, Paritta Monks and members of Manes and Lethe. It unfolds with surprising twists and turns right from the start, too. Lead single “The Rhythm of Silence” slips seamlessly through the cracks between trip-hop and industrial noise into rap.  

Much like the wilted flowers that lay on its cover, death and its psychological offshoots linger in the many corners of This Endless Solitude. Hypnotized by soft spinning synths, “Reoccuring Dreams”quickly descends into a nightmare. But amidst deep-seeded anxieties, intrusive thoughts and other ceaseless discomforts, like a rope that guides one out of a cave, Holissstik still cling to hope. “Hold it gentle / In the palm of your hands”, Halas offers during enchanting centerpiece “Would You Take This Heart”. As the title track ends the album by turning into the light, it’s not so much an invitation as it is an invocation to become something greater than ourselves.  

With This Endless Solitude, Holissstik emerge as a boundless, unified force.

Although the very nature of Holissstik demands that we expect the unexpected, the collective’s future certainly seems to guarantee obsidian horizons and torrential deluges of artistic truth. In other words, the project promises to persistently and ritualistically pummel us with devastating yet necessary, epic masterworks. Skei and his collaborators truly present the most immersive experiences possible and, in Manes language, offer a safe place in the unsafe; dive in with your hands bound, and be submerged within the imprisoning brilliance. Skei continues to participate in a range of outstanding groups, and yet Holissstik stands as the most unpredictable and, counterintuitive as it might sound, accessible undertaking in the history of his illustrious career.

Lineup
Tor-Helge Skei

Guest musicians

Anna Murphy - Vocals on “Obsession Six”

Christophe Denhez - Guitars on “The Rhythm of Silence”, Guitars, vocals and lyrics on “Behind Me”

Eivind Fjøseide - Guitars on all songs except “Projections”

Gabriel Trentini - Vocals and lyrics on “Obsession Six”

Kristoffer Oustad - Synth on “The Rhythm of Silence”, “Projections”, “Reoccuring Dreams”, “This Endless Solitude”

Tor-Arne Helgesen - Drums on all songs except “Behind Me” and “This Endless Solitude”

Marita Hellem - Vocals on “The Rhythm of Silence” and “This Endless Solitude”

Martyna Halas - Vocals and lyrics on “The Rhythm of Silence”, “My Salvation”, “Would You Take This Heart” and “This Endless Solitude”

Nik Košar - Vocals and lyrics on “Projections” and “Reoccuring Dreams”

Pierre Ripka - Vocals and lyrics on “The Rhythm of Silence”

Paritta Monks - Chanting on “Would You Take This Heart”

Rune Folgerø - Vocals on "This Endless Solitude"
Rune Hoemsnes - Drums on "Behind Me"
Stig Waltoft - Synth and sounds on "Would You Take This Heart"
Tom Engelsøy - Vocals on "Obsession Six"
​Torstein Parelius - Bass on "Behind Me" and "This Endless Solitude", lyrics on "This Endless Solitude"
Trond Johansen - Guitars ​on "Would You Take This Heart"

Production credits

Recorded, produced and mixed by Tor-Helge Skei

Mastered by Knut V. Prytz

Songwriting credits

All songwriting and arrangements by Tor-Helge Skei

Biography

Jillian Drachman

Cover art

Adrien Bousson

Pre-order & Stream

https://orcd.co/holissstiktheendlesssolitude

Available formats

CD Digipack with alternative cover

12” Vinyl (Black)

12” Vinyl (Clear, green and purple marbled)

Follow Holissstik  

Official website: https://www.holissstik.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2kUEjjZJGqkwgszR0HQ8IK?si=u6nO-aJkT2inWJlOaDT6Vg

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/holissstik/1895853949

Bandcamp: https://holissstik.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzTKclWOedWL9-sznSesabA

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

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

Discord: https://discord.gg/rmfY8Jd8ww

Folk Metal Duo FORGOTTEN SHRINE Unveil "The Parting Glass (Reforged)" Ft. EMBER BELLADONNA Ahead Of New Album Nox Aeterna

Landing ahead of the forthcoming full length Nox Aeterna, FORGOTTEN SHRINE revisit their folk metal take on the Scottish traditional song "The Parting Glass (Reforged)" featuring flutist EMBER BELLADONNA. This new version sees a new instrumental arrangement and additional vocal performance by Josh Alexander. Nox Aeterna is scheduled to release independently on November 6, 2026. 

This enchanting interpretation from the folk metal duo balances the emotion and meaning of the original song, while also injecting shadowy elements and dynamic instrumental textures that are cohesive with the new album's sonic character. The collaboration with EMBER BELLADONNA introduces further musical depth. 

Sofia Frasz comments on the new single release: "We decided to release the 'reforged' version of this song as a single about 2 years after we released the original single version, with a new instrumental and new vocal parts from Josh. With the release of Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag Resynced on August 9, this felt like the perfect time to release a revamped version of our 'The Parting Glass' cover. I’ve had this version on repeat for a while; the instrumental part feels like it has more space to breathe than in the version we released 2 years ago, and Josh really shines as a vocalist here."

Nox Aeterna was produced, mixed and mastered by Joshua Dalviken. The album artwork was created by Josh Alexander and Joshua Dalviken, with the cover art for "The Parting Glass (Reforged)" created by Josh Alexander and Tricia Alexander. 

About FORGOTTEN SHRINE:
Created by Josh Alexander (Pennsylvania, USA) and Sofia Frasz (Maryland, USA), FORGOTTEN SHRINE fuses the sounds and textures of folk instruments with the power and darkness of metal. Through their genre-crossing arrangements FORGOTTEN SHRINE delve into fantasy realms creating both upbeat songs perfect for embarking on an adventure and heavier offerings for battling shadowy forces. 

Alexander and Frasz combine their compositional styles, instruments and vocal textures to produce dynamic and emotive music. The upcoming full-length sees the duo each take the reins across the track list while ensuring FORGOTTEN SHRINE's core identity remains cohesive. 

FORGOTTEN SHRINE is: 
Josh Alexander - Guitar, Bass, Hurdy Gurdy, Irish Bouzouki, Additional Instruments, Backing Vocals, Composition.
Sofia Frasz - Lead Vocals, Guitar, Lyrics, Composition.

Connect With FORGOTTEN SHRINE: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555238025771&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forgottenshrineband
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForgottenShrineBand
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0q7rFp0yxvWoxGWqIt21nI?si=p5jz0YOOROOHFy5jxHAW6A
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/forgotten-shrine/1734698132

Gåte Release New Single "Strandvaskar"

Gåte are one of the most distinct bands to come out of Norway. The band have topped the Norwegian charts, won a Norwegian Grammy and represented Norway in the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest. Now, they are expanding their groundbreaking mix of Nordic folk and modern rock on their upcoming new album Sigil.

Today, Gåte are releasing “Strandvaskar” as the second advanced single from Sigil.  With Hardanger fiddle and mystical electronics, the song pulls from the Norwegian superstition that a body washed ashore must be given a proper burial, lest the sea return to reclaim what it’s lost.  

Listen to “Strandvaskar” below.

Sigil comes out September 25 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order

https://orcd.co/gatesigil

Sigil is Gåte’s most ambitious album yet. The album recounts ancient legend and folk narratives to ask what survives once illusion falls away.

"Strandvaskar" names the drowned rather than the finder. The song stages a quiet, unresolved dialogue between the two: a voice with no sound that speaks, eyes that flicker and slowly fill with blue as the sea reclaims its own. The narrator is pulled toward the dead and pulls back, not from horror but fear, letting go rather than being able to hold on.

Gåte’s upcoming fall tour will bring the band to nine cities across Norway, plus one date in Istanbul, Turkey. During this ten date run, they will perform  new songs from Sigil, along with fan favorites from their celebrated discography.

Gåte Concerts 2026

October 23 - Trondheim, Norway @ Havet [TICKETS]

October 30 - Drammen, Norway @ Union [TICKETS]

October 31 - Oslo, Norway @ Sentrum Scene [TICKETS]

November 5 - Haugesund, Norway @ Høvleriet [TICKETS]

November 6 - Stavanger, Norway @ Folken [TICKETS]

November 7 - Bergen, Norway @ Verftet [TICKETS]

November 12 - Skien, Norway @ Parkbiografen [TICKETS]

November 13 - Moss, Norway @ Verket Scene [TICKETS]

November 14 - Hamar, Norway @ Festiviteten [TICKETS]

November 21 - Istanbul, Turkey @ IF Performance [TICKETS]

During the fall of 2026, GÅTE will perform the album’s lead single “Sannsiger” and other new songs during a headline tour of Norway and one date in Istanbul, Turkey. Their concerts are well-known for being immersive and intense, balancing raw energy with a ritual-like focus that has earned them a glowing and growing reputation beyond the Nordic region.

Line-up:
Gunnhild Sundli — Vocals

Magnus Børmark — Guitars, Nyckelharpa, Sounds, FX, Programming, Percussion, Backing Vocals

Jon Even Schärer — Drums, Percussion, Programming, Mouth Harp, Backing Vocals

Arent Todal — Hardanger Fiddle, Nyckelharpa, Violin, Sounds, Backing Vocals

Mats Paulsen — Bass, Backing Vocals

Production Credits:
Recorded at MagnuStudio; Øra Studio.

Produced by Kristian Fanavoll Tvedt & Magnus Børmark.
Mixed & Mastered by Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios.

Guest Musicians:
Kristian Fanavoll Tvedt — Synths, Programming, Sounds, Guitar, Backing Vocals
Maria Franz — Guest Vocals on "Sannsiger"
Olav Luksengård Mjelva — Hardanger Fiddle on "Bergteken", "Oskorsreia", "Strandvaskar", "Songen", "Aude"
John Stenersen — Hurdy-Gurdy on "Mi Jord"
Knut Anders Vestad — Concert Grand Piano on "Jostedalsrypa"
Marit Aspås — Cello on "Jostedalsrypa"
Sylvelin Sundli — Upright Piano on "Bòd frå djupet"

Cover Art:
Martine Solstad Larsen (Sigil Artist); Martin Kvamme (Cover Art and Design).

Photography:
Ole Ekker

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

Follow GÅTE:
Official Website: https://www.gåte.com/
Bandcamp: https://gaate.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gaateband/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaate_official/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gaateband
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/G%C3%A5temusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3YxkGgMvqCQA75aFpy6524
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/g%C3%A5te/73355577
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/16043
Tidal: https://tidal.com/artist/12122/

The Intemperate Sons Release New Single + Video "The One That Eats You" via FRAME|WORK

Alt-Rockers, The Intemperate Sons, have released their new track, "The One That Eats You," from their upcoming third studio album, Ephemera, set for release in Fall 2026.

Some things you carry. Others carry you, quietly, until there's nothing left to recognize — that's the space The Intemperate Sons live in on "The One That Eats You." Produced with Amir Derakh, the track marks an evolution in the band's alt-rock sound, pulling in the post-punk and goth influences that have been living in their heads lately.

Stream/Download "The One That Eats You":

https://onerpm.link/204201373091

https://linktr.ee/theintemperatesons

The Intemperate Sons release all their music through the Frame|Work record label at the direction of Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck. All Intemperate Sons’ tracks are mixed by Amir Derakh at Synthicidein Long Beach, CA.  

WATCH the Official Music Video for "The One That Eats You" Below:

In the sweltering Dallas summer of 2019, before the onset of a global pandemic, The Intemperate Sons were born from blood, grit, and a shared obsession with the ghosts of alternative rock’s golden age. The Watson family—Keith on drums, Jake on guitars, and Max on vocals, guitars, and keys—joined forces with longtime friend and bassist Mark Marks to create a sound that’s equal parts searing riffs, haunting harmonies, and unapologetic soul. Think Alice in Chains’ brooding intensity, Stone Temple Pilots’ swagger, and R.E.M.’s poetic undercurrent, all filtered through a ‘70s rock haze that refuses to play it safe.

This isn’t just a band; it’s a family affair, where the unspoken bond between father and sons fuels every chord and lyric. Keith, a Dallas stage veteran, pens lyrics that cut deep—tales of regret, resilience, and the chaos of the human condition. Jake’s guitar lines, sharp yet soulful, weave narratives of their own, while Max’s voice carries the weight of a 25-year-old who’s lived a lifetime in his head. Mark, the groove-obsessed bassist, ties it all together.

The Intemperate Sons hit the ground running, catching the ear of rock heavyweights Ryan Shuck and Amir Derakh (Orgy, Dead By Sunrise, Julien-K), who signed them to their Frame|Work label in 2021. Even a global pandemic couldn’t derail their momentum—holed up in The Kitchen Recording Studios, they crafted their debut album, The Color Within (2022), with tracks like “Dust to Dust” and “Running Man”that pulse with raw emotion and retro grit. Collaborations with legends like Tony Franklin (Whitesnake, The Firm) on singles like “Running Man” and “Dust to Dust” and Derakh’s production on singles like “Game of Keep Away” and “Dark Day’s Night” featured on their second and highly successful album, Dark Day’s Night (2024) pushed their sound further, blending post-grunge edge with folk and hard rock undercurrents.

For fans of alternative rock, this band is a throwback and a revelation—a reminder of why you fell in love with the genre’s raw honesty and a promise that its spirit still burns. The Intemperate Sons aren’t chasing trends; they’re carving their own path, one riff, one lyric, one night at a time.performing tracks that scratch deep into the backbone of the human experience. There is no shortage of darkness in their writing style which has a retro vibe with many guitar driven tracks stacked on top of a groovy rhythm section. The heavier style fits perfectly with the two and three-part vocal harmonies that are a huge part of their overall sound. It has been said that musicians that are related form unique sounds and communicate on a frequency only they can understand. This frequency has become engrained in their songwriting, arrangements, guitar melodies and vocal harmonies. The band has been compared to Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, and even R.E.M.

The Intemperate Sons are:

Max Watson (vocals, backing vocals, guitars, keys, bass)

Jake Watson (guitars, bass and backing vocals)

Keith Watson (drums, backing vocals)

Mark Marks (bass)

The Intemperate Sons Show Dates:

Saturday, August 29th @ Trees in Dallas, Texas

Saturday, September 12th @ Craft and Growler in Dallas, Texas

For More Information Please Visit:

The Intemperate Sons

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

Spotify

Merch Store

FRAME|WORK

FRAME|WORK Website

FRAME|WORK Instagram

CORELEONI Release Video for New Single "Howling At The Moon"

Following the announcement of their upcoming album Generection and the recent release of its first single, "Generation Rock," which perfectly captured the record's generational spirit, CoreLeoni, led by GOTTHARD founding member Leo Leoni, have unveiled an official music video for "Howling At The Moon." The new single offers another powerful glimpse into their forthcoming studio offering, further showcasing the heavier, more hard-hitting direction CoreLeoni have embraced on their latest release.

Rooted in an idea dating back to the early '90s, "Howling At The Moon" was originally conceived by Jgor Gianola and the late Steve Lee during songwriting sessions for GOTTHARD before being rediscovered and reimagined for Generection. Driven by crushing riffs, a commanding vocal performance from Gent Bushpepa, and CoreLeoni's unmistakable blend of melodic hard rock and metal, the song bridges the band's present with a remarkable piece of their musical history.

Stream "Howling At The Moon": https://coreleoni.rpm.link/howlingPR

Watch the official video Below:

Marking the band's fourth album since its formation in 2017 and the second featuring vocalist Gent Bushpepa, Generection sees CoreLeoni returning to their roots with their heaviest and hardest-hitting record to date.

Built on a foundation of unreleased tracks, the album showcases the powerhouse lineup of Alex Motta (drums), Mila Merker (bass), and Jgor Gianola (guitars), standing as unshakable pillars of the band's sound. While heavier and harder than its predecessors, Generection never sacrifices warmth or atmosphere, especially in its most intimate moments. With the entire band contributing more to the songwriting than ever before, the result aligns perfectly with Leo Leoni's unmistakable signature sound.

The analog mix is one of the defining characteristics of Generection, recreating the magic of '70s and '80s recordings while injecting a modern edge. Razor-sharp riffs, driving rhythms, and just the right touch of sweetness and dimension make this an album that opens a door to the past for younger listeners while reconnecting older rockers with their roots.

Since launching CoreLeoni in 2017, Leo Leoni has built the project into a celebrated hard rock force that bridges generations. With Gent Bushpepa once again delivering a commanding vocal performance and a band firing on all cylinders, Generection stands as a powerful statement of intent, honouring classic rock traditions while pushing confidently forward.

Set to be released on September 11 through Reigning Phoenix Music, Generectionis available for pre-order at: https://coreleoni.rpm.link/generectionPR

The Digipak CD edition also includes a bonus disc featuring the "Live At Hallenstadion" concert, recorded in Zürich, Switzerland, in July 2025 and previously available only as a digital release.

CoreLeoni is:
Leo Leoni – Guitars
Gent Bushpepa – Vocals
Jgor Gianola – Guitars
Mila Merker – Bass
Alex Motta – Drums
  

Connect with CoreLeoni:
https://www.coreleoni.com
https://www.facebook.com/coreleoni
https://www.instagram.com/coreleoni

SLEEP ANNOUNCE HEMPISPHERES

Sleep announce their new album, Hempispheres, out digitally on September 3 and physically on October 30 via Third Man Records.
Physical pre-orders open September 3rd. Stream the new single The Morrisist today.

LISTEN TO THE SINGLE "THE MORRISIST"

Ian Munsick Releases New Song, “Palomino Eyes,” Off Upcoming Album

Wyoming native Ian Munsick continues to intertwine those Western themes he’s known for into his latest release, “Palomino Eyes,” available now. Listen Below.
 
Written by Munsick and Phil O’Donnell, “Palomino Eyes” places a cowboy’s lens onto rose-colored glasses, emphasizing the beauty of how the world is seen through a partner’s eyes.“Nine times out of ten a song title hits me days, weeks, months or even years before I actually sit down to write it. It’s extremely rare that an idea is born and I have the time and creative juice to write it from start to finish,” Munsick explains. “But when I was driving through the farmland of Tennessee on my way to write with one of my favorite songwriters, Phil O’Donnell, I saw a beautiful Palomino hanging by the fence with enamoring blue eyes. I thought to myself, ‘I have one of those waiting for me at home… Caroline.’” 
 
He continues, “We wrote ‘Palomino Eyes’ in a few hours, unsure which part was the chorus and which part was the verse. That’s probably one of the reasons why it’s my personal favorite song on the album. It doesn’t follow a formula. It’s free and untamed, just like that Palomino and my beautiful wife.”
 
“Palomino Eyes” is the latest release off Munsick’s upcoming studio album, The Mountain Goat. Spanning 15 tracks, The Mountain Goat is Munsick’s first independent release via WEST TO THE REST RECORDS in partnership with Triple Tigers Records, and was produced by Munsick, Jeremy Spillman and Mike Robinson. Pre-save HERE. 
 
Additionally, five D2C fan packs are available to pre-order on his online store, including an exclusive autographed zoetrope vinyl. Pre-order HERE.

Along with co-producing the album, Munsick also played an extensive role in the instrumentation heard on the record. In total, Munsick is credited with playing nine different instruments: acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, mandolin, banjo, harmonica, piano, bouzouki and kazoo, as well as lending background vocals and programming.
 
Munsick promises to deliver fans a memorable tour of the west with a series of shows during album release week, as well as the launch of his Schaefer Outfitter clothing line on August 18. As part of “The Road to The Mountain Goat,” Munsick’s official album release show will be held at Deer Valley Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater in Park City, Utah on August 22 as part of the Deer Valley Concert Series. 
 
Founded in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Schaefer Outfitter has spent four decades providing western wear to working cowboys and ranchers. Their collection with Munsick will include custom pearl snap shirts, outerwear, hats and graphic tees designed collaboratively between Munsick and the Schaefer team. Fans can enter to win a signed piece of the collection HERE.
 
Munsick is also partnering with The Landmark Hotel & Casino to open the Ian Munsick Cowboy Bar & Western Grill in Deadwood, S.D on September 18. Built between 1894-1920, The Landmark is Deadwood’s largest historic structure at approximately 35,000 square feet. The Ian Munsick Cowboy Bar & Western Grill will reside within over 2,600 square feet of the footprint. The venue will promote and celebrate country and western music with old school country bar decor, along with two performance stages, one indoors and one outdoors.
 
The Road to The Mountain Goat Shows:
Aug 21 || Minden, NV || TJ's Corral Outdoor
Aug 22 || Park City, UT || Deer Valley Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater
Aug 25 || Morrison, CO || Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Aug 28 || Pueblo, CO || Colorado State Fair
Sept 11 || San Angelo, TX || Black Buck Amphitheater 
Sept 12 || Albuquerque, NM | New Mexico State Fair
Sept 18 || Deadwood, SD || Deadwood Jam

About Ian Munsick:
As one of modern country’s few Rocky Mountain artists – and the only one to merge its timeless traditions with an electrifying roots-pop edge – Wyoming native Ian Munsick lives in the wild places few singer-songwriters go. Yet with his fourth album, The Mountain Goat, he climbs farther out on his creative ledge than ever. Marking his first independent album on WEST TO THE REST RECORDS / Triple Tigers Records, Munsick remains as sure footed as his project’s fearless namesake, thriving in the isolation of a Western-flavored modern country frontier. Racking up over one billion career streams with previous albums Coyote Cry, White Buffalo, and Eagle Feather, Munsick has produced one RIAA-Platinum duet “Long Live Cowgirls” (with Cody Johnson) – No. 1 on SiriusXM’s The Highway Hot 30 Countdown – plus two Gold-certified hits: “Long Haul” and “Horses Are Faster.” Spotify, CMT, and the Grand Ole Opry were among those to recognize Munsick’s vision, and concertgoers across the globe have found a Western authenticity that can’t be faked. Munsick made history in 2025, becoming the first Wyoming-born artist to headline Cheyenne Frontier Days – the iconic rodeo known as the “Daddy of ‘Em All” – and with The Mountain Goat, his quest to bring Western mystique to modern fans continues. Fusing genuine tradition with cutting-edge sonics, 15 tracks feature an “earthy” new organic undercurrent, with the multi-instrumental master more connected to his acoustic roots – and more protective of his territory.

LANIE GARDNER ANNOUNCES FADED POLAROIDS (DELUXE) ARRIVING SEPTEMBER 4

Following the success of her acclaimed album, Lanie Gardner will release Faded Polaroids (Deluxe) on September 4 via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Available for pre-add/pre-save today, the expanded edition features three brand-new songs, continuing the musical journey that began with her Polaroids EP and evolved on Faded Polaroids. Fans can hear the first new release, "You Ain't My Daddy," below.

Alongside the album's original 18 tracks, which helped earn Gardner recognition as a “2025 Artist to Watch” by the Recording Academy/GRAMMY, Gardner worked with Kristian Bush on the deluxe edition to expand on the world of Faded Polaroids. With three new songs - "You Ain't My Daddy," "Bye Bye," and "Say It Sober” - she further showcases her fearless songwriting and unmistakable voice.

“Faded Polaroids felt like a resolution before stepping into the next chapter of my artistry, capturing the growing pains of my early twenties. With the deluxe edition, I’m reflecting on the woman I’ve become because of them,” Lanie shared. “These new songs solidify that evolution, and I hope they encourage women to trust themselves, reclaim their voices, and never settle for anything that makes them forget their worth. That’s exactly how I felt writing them.”

After teasing snippets across social media, Gardner let fans vote on which of the new songs they wanted to hear first and they chose "You Ain't My Daddy." Equal parts playful and defiant, the country-rock anthem pushes back against unsolicited opinions and expectations with sharp wit, gritty guitars and a singalong chorus. It's a reminder that no one else gets to decide who you are or how you choose to live your life. Go behind the scenes with Lanie and the making of the song here. 

The release arrives as Gardner continues her breakout year on Luke Bryan's “Word On The Street Tour,” bringing her music to audiences across the country. Since first capturing global attention with her viral cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams," Gardner has carved out a sound that blends the storytelling heart of country with the grit of rock, the soul of blues and the hooks of pop. With Faded Polaroids, Gardner continued defining her sound, and the deluxe edition pushes that evolution even further.

Gardner will continue on Luke Bryan’s “Word On The Street Tour” into the fall, before joining Jordan Davis and Ty Myers for select dates. Visit laniegardnermusic.com for ticket information.

KEEP UP WITH LANIE GARDNER

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

Victoriana Infused Electronic Metal Duo CODEX LOVELACE Present "Follow Me"

"Follow Me" is the debut single release from electronic metal duo, CODEX LOVELACE. With a shared love of Victoriana, history, and a bit of cyber punk, CODEX LOVELACE fuses dark EDM and atmospheric electronics with metal. The debut album Galvanized Heart is scheduled to arrive on September 4th, 2026. 

"Follow Me" explores themes of love and lust, while also drawing inspiration from the history and birth of electricity. This major technological development in our history is explored by Joan Avant in the lyric, “Light the way night into day”. 

The 'electrifying' sound of "Follow Me" is created through EDM inspired rhythmic arrangements and synth layers. Enhanced with impactful and punchy heavy guitars, the influences from metal bring a darker edge.  

Pre-order Galvanized Heart HERE: https://codexlovelace.bandcamp.com/album/galvanized-heart

CODEX LOVELACE is: 
Joan Avant: multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer & lyricist, producer. 
Holly Royle: multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer & lyricist.


Album Credits:
Guitar performance, bass, violin, drums, synth programming, vocal performance, composition and lyrics by Joan Avant
Guitar performance, synth programming, vocal performance, composition and lyrics by Holly Royle
Produced and mixed by Joan Avant
Mastered by Andy Fernihough
Cover artwork by Marisol Maerz
Photography by Tom Lloyd Photography / Joan Avant


Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codex_lovelace/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@CodexLovelace
Bandcamp: https://codexlovelace.bandcamp.com

METAL ICON KAI HANSEN RELEASES NEW SINGLE "WELCOME TO LIFE"

With "Welcome To Life," Kai Hansen releases the second single from his upcoming solo album Born With A Hammer. Following the powerful "Feeding The Beast," the song reveals another side of the musician who, as co-founder of Helloween and founder of Gamma Ray, has played a defining role in European heavy metal, and power metal in particular, for decades.

Driving guitars, striking changes in tempo and strong melodies come together in a direct blend of heavy metal, punk and rock’n’roll. As the second track on the album, "Welcome To Life" makes it clear early on just how diverse Born With A Hammer is set to be. 

Lyrically, the song is about accepting life as it is, not dwelling on what is missing and making the most of what you have. Hansen combines this outlook with his unmistakable guitar playing, an infectious sense of spontaneity and the spirit of a road trip through life.

The official lyric video brings this idea to life as a Mustang tears through a heightened, hell-tinged world. Its imagery follows the song's shifting dynamics and puts its sense of freedom firmly on the road.

Born With A Hammer was produced by Eike Freese, Kai Hansen and Alexander Dietz. The album was recorded with Eike Freese on guitar, Heaven Shall Burn’s Alexander Dietz on bass, Carcass drummer Dan Wilding and Induction guitarist Tim Hansen.

Across 10 songs, Born With A Hammer combines powerful heavy metal with punk attitude, hard rock drive and strong melodies. "Welcome To Life" represents the album's more immediate and carefree side, expanding the picture of this new solo chapter following "Feeding The Beast."

Following the worldwide success of Helloween’s recent reunion era and its major international tours, Born With A Hammer sees Kai Hansen return his focus to his own musical world. "Welcome To Life" shows that this world is firmly rooted in his history while continuing to forge a path entirely of its own.
  
Listen to "Welcome To Life" Below.
 
Pre-order Born With A Hammer HERE.

ABOUT KAI HANSEN:
Kai Hansen is one of modern heavy metal’s most influential creative forces. As co-founder of Helloween and founder of Gamma Ray, he shaped the sound and spirit of power metal and continues to influence artists and fans worldwide. His work with Helloween has brought him back to the biggest stages around the globe, while Born With A Hammer reveals another side of his creative drive — personal, direct and fully charged.

TUNGSTEN Ignite the Fire with New Single "Fuego Del Sol"

Swedish melodic metal force TUNGSTEN unveil "Fuego Del Sol", the brand-new single from their upcoming studio album Ashes, slated for a release on October 9 via PERCEPTION – Powered by Reigning Phoenix Music. Blending the band's signature heavy sound with unmistakable Spanish and Latin American influences, the track delivers powerful riffs, infectious rhythms and a vibrant atmosphere that sets it apart from anything they've released before.

With its irresistible groove, soaring melodies and captivating hooks, "Fuego Del Sol" stands out as one of TUNGSTEN's most distinctive tracks to date. The single offers another exciting glimpse of the band's forthcoming album while proving there's still plenty of room to expand their signature sound.
Speaking about the track, vocalist Mike Andersson comments:

"Parts of the song are in Spanish, which made sense for the feel we were going for. It's a slightly different track for us, with a more rhythmic and warm character. My wife is Spanish, so that influence is naturally there. Coming from Northern Europe, we're drawn to that kind of atmosphere since it's so different for us."
 

Stream "Fuego Del Sol" Below:

Following a strong entry into the metal scene with their 2019 debut “We Will Rise” and a steady rise through albums like “Tundra,” and “Bliss,” the band now return with a powerful new chapter. Between touring and live performances throughout 2025, TUNGSTEN focused on writing material for their upcoming album, aiming to create a worthy follow-up to 2024’s “The Grand Inferno.” 

Ashes sees TUNGSTEN continue their crusade, delivering irresistible metal with anthemic choruses and a fresh surge of energy that pushes their signature sound even further. The album captures everything the band stands for: powerful songwriting, massive hooks, and a dynamic mix of melody and heaviness that makes it one of their strongest and most focused releases to date!

In support of Ashes, the band will embark on a co-headline tour with INDUCTION, joined by special guests KILMARA. Following the tour, TUNGSTEN will play a string of headlining dates across Sweden and Norway. Find all upcoming shows listed below! 
 

Pre-order Ashes now at this location: https://tungsten.rpm.link/ashesPR

TUNGSTEN Live:
08.08.2026 – FI –Helsinki, Hellsinki Metal Festival
22.08.2026 – SE  – Vita/Luleå, Vita Rockfest
 
ANTHEMS OF STEEL TOUR 2026
With INDUCTION & Special Guests KILMARA:
07.10.26 – DE – Herford @ Kulturwerk
08.10.26 – DE – München @ Backstage
09.10.26 – DE – Leipzig @ Hellraiser
10.10.26 – DE – Passau @ Zauberberg
11.10.26 – DE – Karlsruhe @ Die Stadtmitte
12.10.26 – CH – Aarburg @ Musigburg
13.10.26 – AT – Salzburg @ Rockhouse
14.10.26 – DE – Mörlenbach @ Live Music Hall
15.10.26 – DE – Hamburg @ Bahnhof Pauli
16.10.26 – DE – Lingen @ Alter Schlachthof
17.10.26 – DE – Solingen @ Laut und Hart Festival
18.10.26 – DE – Selb @ Rockclub Bayern
 
ASHES TOUR:
22.10.2026 – SE – Lund, Mejeriet
23.10.2026 – SE – Gothenburg, Valand
24.10.2026 – SE – Örebro, Rockbar
25.10.2026 – NO – Oslo, Salt
26.10.2026 – SE – Stockholm, Kollektivet Livet
09.–10.04.2027 – DK – Roskilde, Epic Fest 2027
For more info and tickets visit: https://tungstenofficial.net/Tour 

 

TUNGSTEN are:
Mike Andersson – Lead Vocals
Karl Johansson – Bass, Keyboards, Vocals
Nick Johansson – Guitar
Anders Johansson – Drums
 
Connect with TUNGSTEN:
Tungsten Official | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | YouTube

The Bites Bring a Little Heat to “Whenever You’re Ready”

Los Angeles based rock quartet, The Bites, return with their new single, "Whenever You're Ready", a sharp, swaggering anthem of frustration, desire, and the kind of hard-earned patience that only makes rock and roll hit harder. Pulling from garage rock, pop punk, and blues, The Bites have crafted their forthcoming self-titled record, set for release on September 18 via Earache Records, to reflect where they've been and where they're headed. Listen to the brand new single, "Whenever You're Ready", Below.

Built on a reckless hook and a no-nonsense level of momentum, "Whenever You're Ready", finds The Bites caught in the wreckage of a bad love affair. Despite holding out hope that they'll finally come around, The Bites refuse to chase or beg, but trust that the right moment will arrive on its own terms. Standing their ground with a wink and what feels like a dare, the band turns the chase into a hook you can't shake.

Letting the chemistry do the talking on "Whenever You're Ready", The Bites share:

"Whenever You’re Ready’ started with a pretty simple feeling: watching someone you care about chase the wrong thing, knowing there’s nothing you can do except be there if they ever figure it out. We wanted the music to carry that same mix of hope, frustration and energy, so it became one of those songs where we stopped thinking about what a Bites song was supposed to sound like and just followed whatever made the emotion hit harder. That meant bringing in synths, new textures and bigger dynamics that we hadn’t really explored before. More than anything, this song represents what this whole album has been about for us: trusting the song, pushing ourselves creatively, and not putting limits on what a rock band can sound like.”

The Bites first ignited this new era with "Aftertaste", a high-voltage comeback that hinted at what's to come on their forthcoming self-titled record. Hailed by Classic Rock (UK) as "zingy, catchy rock'n'roll with dirt on its boots and sunny pop rock harmonies fresh off the beach," the track highlighted their ability to fuse road-worn edge with a breezy, West Coast melodic shine.

Their debut record, "Squeeze", made an immediate impression, cracking the Top 40 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Airplay chart on the strength of its raw, high-energy rock and roll. Between extended worldwide runs including Sebastian Bach and 69 Eyes and their stretch in the Caribbean for the Monsters of Rock Cruise, their time spent away from home changed them in ways that couldn't help but surface throughout "The Bites".

What's new for The Bites is their willingness to let their walls down while writing about real experiences, wrestle with the state of the world, and trust that the honesty makes for the most powerful rock and roll that they've ever put to tape. The record doesn't abandon what made The Bitescompelling across their debut release, it only sharpens it.

Recorded across multiple locations with producer Keith Armstrong (Green Day, Bon Jovi) at the helm, The Bites upcoming self-titled record was partially tracked at the iconic East West Studio in Los Angeles, in the same room where Red Hot Chili Peppers cut some of their greatest work. For a band quickly on the rise, there's something fitting about The Bites laying down tracks in a space steeped in rock and roll history. Adding their own chapter to a legacy that runs deep in those walls, "The Bites" arrives as a record that honors that history while allowing The Bites to carve out a story of their own.

Check out the band’s pre-sale bundles and vinyl variants HERE and be sure to stay tuned for more news from The Bites coming very soon.

CHRIS SCHELER Reflects on Life's Highs and Lows with Inspiring New Single "Seasons,"

Singer-songwriter and guitarist CHRIS SCHELER releases his powerful new single, "Seasons," today, delivering an emotionally honest, guitar driven pop rock anthem that explores the ever changing journey of life. Blending heartfelt lyricism with soaring melodies and dynamic instrumentation, "Seasons" reminds listeners that even life's darkest moments eventually give way to brighter days.

Built around driving guitars and an uplifting musical backdrop, "Seasons" captures the emotional cycle of triumph, adversity, growth, and renewal. While the song's lyrics embrace moments of reflection and melancholy, they ultimately offer a message of resilience and hope encouraging listeners to keep moving forward, no matter what season of life they find themselves in.

"Seasons is about going through the ups and downs of life. You're having a great time and then suddenly an obstacle presents itself. You go through a struggle, but you overcome the obstacle and grow. The cycle repeats. The song is also about the passing of time and how certain things change and others remain constant."

— Chris Scheler

The single showcases Scheler's ability to blend thoughtful storytelling with infectious rock sensibilities. His expressive vocals and guitar work serve as the emotional backbone of the track, creating a song that feels equally personal and universally relatable.

Recorded at The Kaleidoscope in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, CHRIS SCHELER performed vocals, guitars, and bass on the track. Jon Smith and Ben Roth engineered, mixed, and mastered the song while also contributing additional guitar and bass layers, giving "Seasons" its rich sonic depth. Drums were performed by Robin Diaz, whose energetic performance was engineered by Lionel Andre in West Hollywood, California, adding a powerful rhythmic foundation that drives the song from beginning to end.

With "Seasons," Scheler delivers more than just another pop rock single he offers a reminder that growth often comes through life's greatest challenges. As listeners navigate their own personal victories and setbacks, the song serves as an anthem of perseverance, healing, and optimism.

Releasing today, August 6, "Seasons" is poised to resonate with anyone who has ever faced uncertainty, embraced change, or found strength through adversity. It is a compelling introduction to CHRIS SCHELER'S authentic songwriting and a testament to music's ability to connect through shared human experience.

On August 23, Scheler will open for national touring band, Plush, at Capital City Music Hall in Harrisburg, PA. Major Moment and Observe the 93rd are also on the bill.

Iodine Recordings to Release Gameface "All My Friends" EP on 9/25

For more than 35 years, Southern California melodic punk veterans GAMEFACE have built a legacy on heartfelt songwriting, emotional honesty, and an unwavering connection with their devoted fanbase. From influential releases on Revelation Records, Doghouse Records, and Equal Vision to a celebrated return in the 2010s, the band has remained a constant voice of authenticity, proving that sincerity never goes out of style.

Now, Gameface begin a new chapter with Iodine Recordings, returning with their first new recordings in over a decade. The two-song 7", featuring "All My Friends" and "Men of Stone," finds the band sounding as vital and emotionally resonant as ever. Rooted in the melodic post-hardcore sound they've spent decades refining, both songs reflect on friendship, aging, loss, and the quiet struggles that often go unspoken.

Pre-order here and listen to the title track below.  

The cover art was designed by iconic cartoon artist Brian Walsby (7 Seconds, The Melvins, Corrosion of Conformity).

"'As we age, our circle of friends tends to shrink. It's easy to grow complacent and withdrawn. We lose people. Social media magnifies our anxieties, and the pull of political division only deepens the distance between us. It's easy to feel small, isolated," explains vocalist Jeff Caudill. "'We wrote 'All My Friends' and 'Men of Stone' for those who've drifted down rabbit holes, those facing declining health, and those who can't quite bring themselves to talk about any of it. These songs lived as ideas for years, but only recently did we feel compelled to record them. It was a way to lean on our friendship and help get us through these dark times. We feel strongly about these songs, and we're grateful they exist."

Rather than chasing nostalgia, Gameface continue to write music with the same vulnerability and conviction that has defined the band since 1990. "All My Friends" and "Men of Stone” are not simply a return — they're a reminder of why Gameface remain one of melodic punk's most enduring and beloved voices.

MORTIIS Announces and Streams Digital EP, "Farewell Romero"

Iconic Norwegian artist MORTIIS is now revealing a digital EP today, 'Farewell Romero.' The EP draws its inspiration and namesake from the eponymous song, which was originally featured on his recently released full-length, 'Ghosts of Europa.'

'Farewell Romero' features the original album track and a fascinating new version of this song with renowned French artist Nicolas Horvath. The classical pianist has previously collaborated with ALCEST and is also known for his work with the famous Japanese animation Studio Ghibli, among many other exciting projects. The third track is a new variant (Madrigal version) of the 'Ghosts of Europa' track 'Violent Silence,' featuring former TODESBONDEN vocalist Laurie Ann Haus. The EP can be streamed in its entirety at THIS LOCATION.

MORTIIS comments, "It has always been my nature to experiment and try new ideas, so to some, it's probably not a surprise that I had a couple of variations of some of the songs from 'Ghosts of Europa' sitting around. When I write songs, I tend to try a lot of directions out, and sometimes there are brutal production decisions to be made, such as killing off otherwise great melodies, or entire sections, from songs. This is probably why I have always been pretty open to creating variations of the songs. Sometimes 'killing your darlings' is just too damn painful. Oh, and the artwork for this EP might be my personal favourite from the 'Ghosts of Europa' series."

This EP follows up 'Ghosts of Europa,' which was released on June 26, 2026 via Prophecy Productions, making it MORTIIS' debut to the label! 'Ghosts of Europa' is available as ltd. box set incl. 2CD artbook edition, gatefold LP (excl. handmade sand-filled vinyl), bonus LP, music cassette et al. (50 copies). Ltd. box set incl. 2CD artbook edition, gatefold LP (excl. 'galaxy' metallic vinyl), bonus LP, music cassette et al. (450 copies). As a 60-page hardcover 2CD artbook incl. 8-track bonus CD, ltd. Gatefold marble smoke vinyl LP (300 copies), ltd. Gatefold crystal clear vinyl LP (300 copies), Gatefold black vinyl LP, and Digipak CD Pre-orders are now live HERE.

Mortiis is a pioneering dark ambient and industrial metal artist, widely credited as the founder of the dungeon synth genre, whose work spans from haunting atmospheric soundscapes to abrasive, genre-defying electronic metal. With a legacy stretching over three decades, he remains one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in underground dark music

With Ghosts of Europa, the enigmatic Norwegian artistic entity, known as MORTIIS, presents an album that he views as a creative liberation. During its long and winding creation process such concepts as genre, rules or experimenting with sounds dissolved while simply making music that reflected every conceivable idea on his mind without accepting any limitations became his guiding principle.

Of course, MORTIIS' musical handwriting is ever present. Echoes from the often quite divergent phases of his previous works can be found across Ghosts of Europa. Yet, the creator of musical worlds left hardly a stone not turned in his epic quest for genuinely new ways of expression. As a result, this cinematic and visionary album often feels expansive, strange, and darkly dystopian. In this, Ghosts of Europa reflects its maker's struggles while creating the album – as for him, these tend to come into existence at the cost of friendships and relationships as well as much soul searching. 

"Ghosts of Europa" has also been shaped to some extent by the original idea that involved a collaboration of MORTIIS with Stephan Groth from APOPTYGMA BERZERK based on their mutual fascination with the highly influential old German school of electronic music, and particularly TANGERINE DREAM and Klaus Schulze. When this fell apart, MORTIIS decided to continue on his own and a long process of transforming the early recorded materials began.

Relics of this early stage remain in hints of the influences from Berlin as well as a host of guest contributions, but visions of bleak, desolate, and timeless alien landscapes warped and mutated the songs. This carried Ghosts of Europa into spaces where MORTIIS never existed before. 

In the beginning of the artistic entity MORTIIS there was black metal. The artist Håvard Ellefsen known as the musical entity MORTIIS started out as a bass player in and during the formation of legendary Norwegian band EMPEROR in 1991 and 1992. After parting ways with these black metal pioneers, MORTIIS embarked on a solo career, the so called Era I From 1993 until 1999, the Norwegian released six full-length albums that were entirely composed on synthesizers and are considered to constitute a fundamental influence on the later Dungeon Synth genre.

In the next decades, MORTIIS evolved and redefined is sound through several eras that embraces experimental & heavy industrial rock, a new wave of gothic & electronic influences, experimental studio works, and back to his roots. 

During most of his career MORTIIS has performed with a mask and face prosthetic that turned his stage persona into an otherworldly being. Over the year, his looks have changed and evolved. For a time during 'Era 0', his live concept even abandoned the wearing of the iconic mask. MORTIIS' stage entity has often been compared with a troll – a creature of Nordic folklore, which it was never intended to be according to the artist.

"Ghosts of Europa" is the sonic testimony of an experienced and matured musician, who created what he loves most and does best: electronic rock with stylistic influences from many genres while not being bound by any that creates dark soundscapes, cinematic sonic visions, and a plethora of emotions. Just when you think that you have finally figured "Ghosts of Europa" out, MORTIIS will surprise you with another facet and fresh aspect of his richly detailed masterpiece.

Line-up:

Håvard "Mortiis" Ellefsen – vocals, keyboards, vocoder, bass guitar, programming

Guest musicians

Benedicte Computorgirl (COMPUTORGIRL) – vocals on track 4

Christopher Amott (ARCH ENEMY et al.) – guitar solo on track 7

Christopher Rakkestad (ELVARHØI, BOLVERK) – vocals on track 1-6

Emil Nikolaisen (SERENA MANEESH, BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE et al.) – fuzz & noise guitars & additional FX on track 3 & 4

Iliana Basileios Tsakiraki (ENEMY OF REALITY, SEPTICFLESH et al.) – vocals on tracks 1, 2, & 5

Laurie Ann Haus (BLIZZARD GAMES) – vocals on track 1, 2, 5 & 7

Matthew Setzer (SKINNY PUPPY, LONDON AFTER MDNIGHT) – throat singing on track 7

Michal Kielbasa (BLACK MAGIC RITES et al.) – tubular bell & vibraphone on track 2, tubular bell on track 6 & tabla loops, additional synths & FX on track 7

Sarah Jezebel Deva (THE KOVENANT, CRADLE OF FILTH et al.) – vocals on tracks 1-3, 5 & 6

Thomas Bolverk (RAGNAROK, BOLVERK) – distortion, clean & sampled guitars on track 6

Thorsten Quaeschning (TANGERINE DREAM) – additional synths & sequencers on track 1

Vegard Blomberg (MOCK) – e-bow & guitars on track 2, additional Copicat, Space Echo, fuzz & e-bow guitars) on track 4, Copicat, Space Echo & fuzz guitars on track 4, fuzz guitars on track 6, fuzz & ambient guitars on track & guitars on track 8

Erling Blomberg – additional guitars on track 8

Album Credits:

Recorded (re-recorded, re-animated & eternally tweaked and re-tweaked) at various locations over a thousand sessions during years of misery, poverty, and disdain (2020-2026) in Fredrikstad (NO)

Early vocal recording by co-producer Stephan Groth at Pitch Black Drive, Fredrikstad (NO)

Mix by Sean Beavan at The Grey Room, Crestline, CA (US)

Mastering by Jules Seifert at Epic Audio Media, London (UK)

Cover Artist: Nihil

Layout Creator: Laurent Clément (Dead Seed Productions)

Pre-orders:

https://mortiiswebstore.com/pages/ghosts-of-europa

Available formats:

"Ghosts of Europa" is available as a 60-page hardcover 2CD artbook incl. 8-track bonus CD, ltd. Gatefold XXX vinyl LP, Gatefold black vinyl LP, and Digipak CD.

MORTIIS Links:

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

X

BANDCAMP

SPOTIFY

APPLE MUSIC

YOUTUBE

OFFICIAL SHOP

Toxic. Addictive. hot mess Announce Debut EP + Are Back With Two New Singles!

Milwaukee pop rock upstarts, hot mess, are back with a double dose of new music, releasing two new singles - "Toxic Cloud" and "New Addiction" today alongside the announcement of their debut EP, "Make Myself Your Favorite Scene", set for release on October 15th. Following the momentum of their neon-lit, pulse racing single "Take Me Home", hot mess continue to sharpen their blend of nostalgic grit and modern pop-rock sheen. Fans can listen to "Toxic Cloud" and "New Addiction" HERE.

Pulling in complementary directions, "Toxic Cloud" takes aim at a scene obsessed with everything except the music itself, while "New Addiction" trades that slow-burn tension for a rush of drums and pop punk urgency, widening the emotional range that hot mess has hinted at so far. Together, the two singles offer an early glimpse of the range and chemistry that run throughout the band's debut EP, "Make Myself Your Favorite Scene". Built across 6 tracks, their forthcoming EP, is a document of late nights, bad decisions, and the moments that feel too good to be smart, all filtered through hot mess' signature blend of retro-futuristic synths and pop-punk backbone.

On what "Toxic Cloud" and "New Addiction" represent for the band, frontman Reid Stevenson shares:

"Toxic Cloud and New Addiction being released together reflects what we want to be as a rock band. We want the freedom to push into heavier territory with a track like Toxic Cloud, being more guitar driven and having a breakdown. While also being able to write on the other side of the pop-leaning spectrum with New Addiction, but still rubbing some hot mess dirt on it to make it our own."

Reflecting on reaching the milestone of announcing their debut EP, "Make Myself Your Favorite Scene", bassist Trevor Gallagher states:

"We here at hot mess are beyond excited to announce our very first EP: Make Myself Your Favorite Scene! This project has not only been a year in the making, but its truly a statement into what we’re all about. Heavy hitting, catchy, and a punch in the face that makes you say ONE MO TIME SUCKA."

Only eight songs into their career, hot mess are still in the earliest chapters of their story, yet the trajectory is unmistakable. Colliding a danceable pop rock with a streak of pop punk grit, the band deliver songs that feel instantly familiar and endlessly replayable. Hook heavy and high energy, hot mess are just rough enough around the edges to hint that something bigger is beginning to take shape.

Stay tuned for more news from hot mess soon.

ABOUT HOT MESS

hot mess is a high energy, pop-rock band formed in 2025 out of Milwaukee, WI. Blending anthemic hooks, punchy guitars, and unapologetic lyrics into a sound that feels nostalgic and refreshingly modern. The band is comprised of members Reid Stevenson (vocals), Sam Theno (guitar), Owen Stevenson (guitar), Trevor Gallagher (bass), and Aidan Scheuren (drums).

hot mess channels themes of ambition, relationships, jealousy, and self reflection. Pulling from their pop-punk roots they push their sound into a contemporary, darker pop-rock territory.

GIRISH AND THE CHRONICLES Return with Hard-Hitting New Single “Generation Coward” OUT NOW via Frontiers Music Srl

GIRISH AND THE CHRONICLES are excited to unleash their new single “Generation Coward," along with an official visualizer, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

The hard-hitting new single blends the band’s signature melodic hard rock and metal with modern alternative influences. Driven by crushing riffs, soaring melodies, and anthemic hooks, the track showcases a heavier, more contemporary edge while remaining unmistakably GATC.

The band commented:

“Lyrically, 'Generation Coward' is an unflinching reflection on fear, conformity, hypocrisy, and the silence that often surrounds human suffering in today’s world. In an age where tragedy unfolds in real time and outrage can be reduced to a passing moment on a screen, the song challenges listeners to question blind obedience, empty virtue, and our growing desensitization to injustice.”

Balancing melody with raw intensity, “Generation Coward” captures both the frustration and urgency of the times while pushing GATC’s sound into bold new territory. It is a powerful reminder that hard rock can still provoke thought as much as it delivers unforgettable hooks.

Watch the Official Visualizer for “Generation Coward” Below:

Over the last few years, GIRISH AND THE CHRONICLES have evolved from one of India's best-kept hard rock secrets into a truly international force. Fueled by extensive European touring and a widely acclaimed appearance on the hit American television show America's Got Talent, the band has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its audience far beyond its homeland and earning recognition among rock fans across the globe.

Staying true to the melodic hard rock and classic heavy metal foundations that have defined their sound from the very beginning, the band’s sound proudly embraces their roots while confidently pushing toward the future. A sound filled with big hooks, soaring choruses, electrifying guitar work, and a renewed sense of ambition.

At the heart of it all is frontman Girish Pradhan, whose unmistakable voice continues to set the band apart. Possessing a rare combination of power, range, grit, and emotion, Girish channels the spirit of the great rock singers of the past while maintaining a personality and charisma that are entirely his own. His commanding vocal performance elevates every track, bringing passion, intensity, and authenticity to the album's diverse musical landscape.

This is a band at the peak of its creative powers: proud of its heritage, energized by its international success, and ready to claim its place on the global hard rock stage. GIRISH AND THE CHRONICLES are no longer just one of India's premier rock exports - they are a band whose time has truly arrived.

Listen to "Generation Coward" HERE

PC: GATC and Ashish Limbu

Get Out Alive Shares "If I Leave'

GET OUT ALIVE are thrilled to share the new single "IF I LEAVE." Listen below.

"'If I Leave' is about giving up," the artist says. "A feeling of low worth, with the chorus opening questions like, 'If I leave, will you come for me?' These lyrics are a vulnerable confession that help is needed and anyone who may relate is not alone. You are not broken. This lyrical message is wrapped up in loud drums, rhythmic guitar work, and intense belted vocals, inspired by all of your favorite dad rock bands from the '90s."

Let the '90s dad rock commence!

Get Out Alive is the brain trust of Chas Huff, a solo alternative metal artist originally from the southwest suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, who later relocated to Palm Coast, Florida. His musical journey began in high school, producing on a borrowed computer before stepping into the local scene as a performer. Over the years, he played in multiple bands, including a punk band which shared stages with acts like Puddle of Mudd, and later a group that opened for artists such as Fame on Fire, collaborated with notable features, and secured a distribution deal. He further expanded his reach through an international project earning another distribution deal and working alongside recognized collaborators.

After years of band experiences and setbacks, Chas shifted his focus toward his solo project, Get Out Alive, creating a fully independent outlet for his artistic vision. Self-produced and developed alongside collaborator Zack Baker (Rain City Drive), his sound blends heavy riffs, immersive atmosphere, melodic vocals, and emotionally driven, hook-focused songwriting. Outside collaborations and industry opportunities ultimately reinforced his decision to invest fully in his solo path.

Born out of isolation and personal struggle, Chas uses Get Out Alive as more than just music, it serves as a self-help-driven creative expression rooted in growth, faith, and introspection. Influenced by psychology and philosophy, his work explores the balance between light and dark while embracing raw honesty. Through his music, he aims to turn pain into purpose, offering listeners both emotional release and a sense of hope, grounded in the belief that to truly get out alive, you must face the truth.

AMY STROUP REIMAGINES IRVING BERLIN’S “ALWAYS”

Today, Nashville-based singer, songwriter and producer Amy Stroup releases a new interpretation of Irving Berlin's timeless classic “Always.” The recording serves as the musical centerpiece of a short piece celebrating the people who make up the backbone of the American workforce. “Always” is available here.

With more than 1,500 licensed sync placements, Stroup is known for creating music and moments that connect with audiences across film, television and advertising. She now brings her signature artistry to one of America's most enduring songs with “Always.” Her interpretation underscores the campaign's celebration of the resilience, optimism and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses, pairing a fresh, intimate performance with a timeless American standard.

“When you're invited to step into a song that has meant so much to so many people for generations, you approach it with a lot of respect,” said Stroup. “I loved finding a way to honor what makes ‘Always’ timeless while bringing my own voice and perspective to it. I'm grateful to the team behind this for trusting me with such a beautiful piece of music and for wanting my voice to help tell its story.”

Given the freedom to reinterpret “Always” through her own artistic lens, Stroup delivers a performance that honors the song's enduring legacy while introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Her recording is available on all digital streaming platforms.

About Amy Stroup:
Amy Stroup is a Nashville-based singer, songwriter and producer whose emotionally expansive songwriting and cinematic sound have made her one of today's most sought-after creative voices. According to Billboard, she is among the most licensed female artists working today, with more than 1,500 film and television placements, including Landman, Grey's Anatomy and Virgin River, along with campaigns for brands including British Airways, Google and Nike. As the creator of the viral project Danger Twins, her music has generated more than 5 billion TikTok impressions and millions of streams. Her songs have been recorded by artists including Chaka Khan, SYML, Andrew Belle and Sam Williams. Stroup is signed to Jonas Group Publishing.

PARMALEE DROPS NEW TRACK “I NEED SOMEBODY”

Six-time number one hitmaker Parmalee returns with the band’s latest track, “I Need Somebody.” Written by Matt Thomas, Taylor Phillips, Andrew DeRoberts, David Fanning and Andy Albert, the upbeat track reflects on a person’s heartbreak and the desire to wipe it out of their memory by seeking to find a forever love. Listen to “I Need Somebody” BELOW. Recently earning the longest-running number one by a band in nearly 14 years on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, Parmalee’s current single, “God Knew Better,” is currently climbing the country charts.  

Parmalee is currently on tour:

7/31 Lexington, SC - Icehouse Amphitheater
8/1 North Myrtle Beach, SC - Alabama Theater
8/7 Lodi, CA Kat County 103 - In The Grove
8/8 Las Vegas, NV -  Edgewater Casino Resort
8/15 Chelsford, UK - Country Calling – Hylands House
8/21 Johnson Creek, WI - Gobbler Theater
8/22 Sunrise Beach, MO - Captain Ron’s
8/28 Dieppe, Canada - YQM Countryfest – Site MusicuArt Site
8/29 Mason, NH - The Range
9/5 Bedford, TX - Bedford Beats and Eats Fest
9/11 Chittenango, NY - The Haven of The Wild – Chittenango, NY
9/12 Norwalk, CT - Norwalk Oyster Festival
10/4 Doswell, VA - State Fair of Virginia
10/10 Palmyra, MO - Marion County Fairgrounds
10/16 Cave Creek, AZ - Harold’s Cave Creek Corral
11/13 Indianapolis, IN - 8 Seconds Saloon

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