Bike Routes Share "World Apart (Reimagined)"

Blue Grape Music recording artist Bike Routes released the wonderful Rush of Energy EP on October 25 of last year. Get it here.

Since then, Bike Routes, the alter ego of David Lawrence Osterhout, has remained busy, hitting the road and winning over new fans at every venue and every city.

Bike Routes  shares "World Apart (Reimagined)." Listen below.

"'World Apart (Reimagined)' is a step back in energy in order to really showcase all of the other elements taking place in the song. It fully captures the story-telling elements of a classic Bike Routes track, while ushering forward a new sound and experience," Osterhout says.

It's truly another way to appreciate, enjoy, and ultimately love the song, with its simple strumming.

Deeply intimate, earnest, and heartfelt expressions of anxiety, heartbreak, and acceptance lie within deceptively sugary melodies and hooks. David’s acoustic guitar is the anchor, inviting listeners into a notebook full of emotion and authenticity. 

The Garden State gave the world Bruce Springsteen, The Misfits, Lifetime, and The Gaslight Anthem. There's perhaps a bit of the essence of each of those trailblazers within the Bike Routes sound. While the South Jersey singer/songwriter conjures the spirit of the iconic troubadours of indie rock, classic emo, and postmodern pop-punk, he distinctively carves a singularly unique identity all his own. 

Osterhout teamed up with producer Zach Tuch (Touché Amoré, Silverstein, Movements), looking to expand the Bike Routes sound. The resulting collection is the Rush of Energy EP — the first Bike Routes release via Blue Grape Music. 

Bike Routes is currently on tour with Arm's Length. All dates are below.

BIKE ROUTES ON TOUR:
WITH ARM'S LENGTH:
5/2 — Columbus, OH — King of Clubs 
5/3 — Indianapolis, IN — Deluxe 
5/4 — Milwaukee, WI — Vivarium 
5/6 — Minneapolis, MN — Varsity Theater 
5/7 — Iowa City, IA — Gabe's 
5/8 — Omaha, NE — Waiting Room 
5/10 — Austin, TX — Mohawk 
5/11 — San Antonio, TX — Stable Hall 
5/12 — Houston, TX — White Oak Music Hall 
5/14 — Birmingham, AL — Saturn 
5/15 — Charleston, SC — Music Farm 
5/16 — Carrboro, NC — Cat's Cradle 
5/17 — Richmond, VA — The Broadberry 
5/18 — Washington, D.C. — 9:30 Club 
5/21 — Worcester, MA — The Palladium 
5/22 — Asbury Park, NJ — The Stone Pony 
5/23 — Amityville, NY — Amityville Music Hall 
5/24 — Albany, NY — Empire Live 
5/25 — Buffalo, NY — Electric City 

THE MAN-EATING TREE Release New Album "Night Verses"! ​

Finnish atmospheric metal heavyweights THE MAN-EATING TREE are celebrating the release of their much-awaited, new studio album "Night Verses", that is out now on Noble Demon! To order your copy, visit https://music.nobledemon.com/verses 

Following a decade since their previous full-length album, "In The Absence Of Light", THE MAN-EATING TREE returns with "Night Verses", showcasing renewed energy and a desire to push the boundaries of their sound. With a lineup featuring former and current members of legendary bands such as Ghost Brigade, Poisonblack, Mors Subita, Entwine, and more, the band is poised to deliver their most powerful and dynamic album yet.

To immerse yourself in the world of THE MAN-EATING TREE, you can listen to the album now here:

"This is not only the new gathering for old friends. This is a new musical direction, allowing the boundaries to be pushed wider and further. We are very much looking forward to presenting this to you", Janne Markus comments on the band's activation and new beginning.

THE MAN-EATING TREE are:
Manne Ikonen - vocals (ex-Ghost Brigade)
Janne Markus - guitar, vocals (Ex-Poisonblack, ex-The Abbey)
Sakke Paavola - guitar
Aksu Hanttu - drums (Ex-Entwine, Tuoni, S-Tool)
Mika "June" Junttila - bass (Mors Subita)

For More Information Please Visit:

 https://themaneatingtree.fi/
https://www.instagram.com/themaneatingtreeofficial

https://www.facebook.com/themaneatingtree/
https://linktr.ee/nobledemon  

DEATH ANGEL RELEASE NEW SINGLE, 'WRATH (BRING FIRE),' AHEAD OF EUROPEAN SUMMER TOUR

Thrash legends DEATH ANGEL are back with their first new music in 6 years! In anticipation for their upcoming summer Summer of Wrath European Tour, the band has released a brand new song called ‘Wrath (Bring Fire).’ The blistering new track and visualizer (created by Tamara Lienas of Aimed & Framed) are streaming now on all digital services!

Commenting on the new track vocalist Mark Osegueda says:

“‘Wrath(Bring Fire)’ is the first Death Angel song featuring the whole band to be released since our 2019 Grammy nominated album Humanicide. This song was however written during the pandemic.

I wrote the lyrics and melody to this song in January of 2021. During that time I was, as all of us were, stuck at home lost, angry and very confused. I was also watching way more television than I usually had. One genre being medieval/fantasy shows which were kind of new to me as an adult. Yet! Were very popular during that time. Which makes sense in retrospect. We all needed some new forms of escapism from the worldwide Hell that we were all going through..That being said..It was partially what inspired these lyrics. An ancient/medieval fantasy end of the world war meets my actual approach in disputes..That can unfortunately, for all involved, turn very ugly if I’m pushed to a certain level or place  when I feel I’m being wronged!

And.. As always for me.. Pen doesn’t hit the paper until I hear the music and that paints a picture and inspires a vision that ends up being my lyrics. And the music Rob wrote for this and the fantasy/medieval based shows I was watching at that time and the personal hell that I was going through, figuring out who the hell I was during that awful time in our collective history and marrying that with my true personal aggressions and fury that I still fight with to this very day when I feel I’ve been wronged inspired this song! And it does still happen to me and I’m sure all of us. It definitely still happens to me to this very day! Sometimes it still does by those that are supposed to be closest to me that think they must be more clever than me.
When in actuality…They are just deceitful and so easily read.

Well..For those of you who can relate to this subject. Which I assume is most of us! This song is for you! Because if you are foolish enough to try to take advantage of me once or continually..To quote Al Capone: ’Don't mistake my kindness for weakness. I am kind to everyone, but when someone is unkind to me, weakness is not what you are going to remember about me.’

That being said..When I come I’ll bring FIRE!!”

Stream ‘Wrath (Bring Fire)’: https://deathangel.bfan.link/wrath-bring-fire

‘WRATH (BRING FIRE)’ VISUALIZER BELOW:

About DEATH ANGEL:

Formed in 1982 in San Francisco, CA, DEATH ANGEL were among the era’s groundbreaking thrash bands along with acts like TESTAMENT, EXODUS, POSSESSED, VIO-LENCE and FORBIDDEN. Considered as one of the most influential thrash bands to exist, DEATH ANGEL has released 9 full-length albums, including their most recent, Grammy Award nominated record Humanicide. The five-piece consisting of Rob Cavestany (guitar, vocals), Mark Osegueda (vocals), Ted Aguilar (guitar, vocals), Will Carroll (drums) and Damien Sisson (bass), is on the tail end of 6 year worldwide tour in support of Humanicide, which has included recent performances in Asia, Europe, North America and South America. With no signs of slowing down, the band continues their quest in the name of metal in 2025.

Follow DEATH ANGEL:

https://www.deathangel.us/

https://www.facebook.com/deathangel

https://www.instagram.com/deathangelofficial

https://twitter.com/deathangel

https://www.youtube.com/@DeathAngel

Hear Nightfall's New Album A Day Early

Ever since they formed in the early '90s, Nightfall have stood alongside Rotting Christ and Septicflesh as the pioneering trinity of Greek metal. Fearsome frontman Efthimis Karadimas and his band of Athenian rebels are still out for revenge on their new album, but Children of Eve is backed by the biggest hooks in their pantheon-level discography.

"One of the best releases of the year", wrote Metal Temple in a perfect 10/10 review of Children of Eve. "It's sinister, morbid, darkened, aggressive, it's a Nightfall release!" 

Children of Eve comes out tomorrow, Friday, May 2, but you can hear all 10 stage-shaking tracks today by listening to the full album stream below.

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

Like their brothers-in-arms, Nightfall sculpt towering gothic melodies from blackened slabs of death metal. Children of Eve is blessed with the mightiest choruses in the band's formidable history. Their new album was mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen, who's helped Volbeat, Amaranthe and The Black Dahlia Murder crank their metallic fury to arena levels.  Lead single “I Hate” seethes with blast beats from ex-Septicflesh drummer Fotis Benardo that flow with all the fire and fury of the River Styx.

During Nightfall's most recent hiatus, Efthimis was diagnosed with depression. Now, he wears a black mask to cover half of his face, symbolizing what it's like to live under the invisible veil of mental illness. "When you have demons in your mind, you're not always an ideal companion", he admits. "That stigma can lead to isolation".
 
Now, Nightfall are encouraging fellow metalheads to speak up. The band have launched a new initiative called Metal Music Against Depression (MMaD), which is supported by European Alliance Against Depression in Germany. "We can talk about this. We can sing about it. We can build a community that's based on understanding", Efthimis says.
 
With Children of Eve, Nightfall return from the shadows to unite blackened souls everywhere with their darkest and most epic creation yet. 

Line-up:
Efthimis Karadimas - Vocals
Kostas Kyriakopoulos - Guitars
Vasiliki Biza - Bass
Fotis Benardo - Drums

Recording Credits:
Recorded at Devasoundz Studios, Athens, Greece
Produced by Efthimis Karadimas with Fotis Benardo & Thimios Krikos
Engineered by Fotis Benardo & Thimios Krikos
Mixed & Mastered by Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios, Ribe, Denmark

Production Credits:
Produced by Efthimis Karadimas & Engineered by Fotis Benardo
Mixed & Mastered in Hansen Studios, Denmark by Jacob Hansen

Cover Art:
Eliran Kantor

Art Concept: 
Efthimis Karadimas

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


Follow Nightfall:
Official Website: http://www.nightfall.gr/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nightfallband/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NIGHTFALL_band
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nightfallband/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4W0Vom1cl6o3UCq8tTfRHV
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/nightfall/1369568685
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/en/artist/76457
TIDAL: https://tidal.com/browse/artist/3521048
Bandcamp: https://nightfallofficial.bandcamp.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nightfallband_gr

ENSLAVED Embarks On US/Canada Shows In May

Cosmic metal pioneers ENSLAVED will make their anticipated return to North America in May for a trio of extraordinary shows featuring hand picked support acts and distinct set lists. 

Commenting on the dates, founding guitarist Ivar Bjørnson says: 

"Greetings from the western mountains of Norway, as one does. We're getting close to May, and that means Enslaved is coming back to North America. Not a moment too soon, if you ask us. We're going to start off in Montreal on May 12th with special guest Spectral Wound. The day after, May 13th, we're hitting New York with the Infinity Ring as our special guest. Then on May 16, the day before the Norwegian National Day of all things, we'll be at the legendary Milwaukee Metal Fest for the first time. We have special guests. We have special set lists. Yes, we have it all now. We want to see you there."

ENSLAVED North American Dates:
May 12 - Montreal, QC - Beanfield Theatre (w/Spectral Wound)
May 13 - New York, NY - Gramercy Theatre (w/The Infinity Ring)
May 16 - Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metal Fest

VIP Tickets: https://tix.soundrink.com/tours/enslaved
Tickets: https://enslaved.no/tour/

ENSLAVED is currently on tour in support of their latest avant-garde creation Heimdal. Stream the Deluxe Edition of the record here: https://enslaved.bfan.link/heimdal-deluxe.ema

Heimdal (Deluxe) includes the studio album in full, as well as alternative versions of two album tracks 'Forest Dweller' and 'Congelia', both with sublime performances from renowned cellist Jo Quail, bonus track 'Gangandi', plus the entirety of 'The Otherworldly Big Band Experience' - Enslaved's stunning 2022 streaming event featuring fellow psychedelic Norwegian prog band Shaman Elephant.

Enslaved's latest studio album Heimdal (released March 2023) is both a departure and a communion with roots forged over three decades ago in the turbulent birth throes of Norway’s black metal scene. It's a record that points towards new beginnings, and a dawn that’s on the other side of the apex of the land. A psychedelic journey through arcane Norse folklore, connecting with one's ancient ancestors and our future selves.

'The Otherworldly Big Band Experience' was an Enslaved show like none other, their biggest, boldest project to date - a colossal, kaleidoscopic stage show featuring a stellar setlist covering their career, both past and present. Including some tracks never previously performed live. 

Never faltering, Norway’s iconic Enslaved continue to exist as one of the most original and dependable components in our scene's indestructible backbone. Possessing the reputation as one of the most riveting live acts around, they never fail to offer us talent of the highest calibre, always doing justice to their signature black/progressive sound. Enslaved was formed in 1991 by Ivar Bjørnson and Grutle Kjellson, releasing their first demo Yggdrasill in the summer of 1992, their legendary mini-album Hordanes Land coming out in 1993, and with their debut full-length Vikingligr Veldi arriving in the spring of 1994.

Enslaved are a band in stellar form - a band at its most existentialist and self-conscious, proud Bergeners bearing the torch of their hometown’s extraordinary musical history. Their most recent material shows Enslaved at their most unleashed and thought-through - a lethal combination unfurling a potential that’s easily rekindling the furor of their early works while dancing gracefully through their most ambitious, most haunting and most musical tunes yet. A contradiction? Life itself is a contradiction. And yet we all live to prove it wrong.

Enslaved are:
Ivar Bjørnson | guitars 
Grutle Kjellson | vocals
Arve 'Ice Dale' Isdal | guitar
Håkon Vinje | keyboards, clean vocals
Iver Sandøy | drums

Seattle rocker AudioGust explores fame & imposter syndrome in new ‘Award Show’ single

Seattle-based artist AudioGust announces his new single 'Award Show', a catchy indie rock piece narrated from the perspective of a barren artist riding on inertia, as hollow accolades amplify his dread in a surreal theater of unworthiness - a gilded cage of his own past glory. 

AudioGust is the solo project of songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Chris Evans, whose journey started in the 1980s as a guitarist and bassist in various bands. After a decades-long detour in the software industry (including 20 years at Microsoft), he has returned to his true passion, writing and recording in his own studio. He has since released over three dozen songs and collaborated with artists worldwide, drawing inspiration from bands such as Green Day, The Police, and Foo Fighters.

'Award Show' is the second offering from AudioGust's new album 'Here We Go Again', presenting a menu of hooky anthems for disenchanted optimists. With a sound vortex imbued with 90’s to 2000’s alternative rock, his guitar-driven music brings in a strong, driving rhythm section, big choruses and even bigger bridge sections. 

“'Award Show' delves into the darker side of creative success, exposing the paralyzing grip of imposter syndrome. The song follows an artist who once thrived on inspiration but now finds himself creatively empty, yet still receiving accolades for past work," explains Chris Evans.

"As he sits in the audience of a prestigious award show, he silently prays not to win—dreading the spotlight, the praise, and the expectation that he’s something he no longer feels he is. But when his name is called, the weight of the moment only deepens his self-doubt. Playing off his lack of preparation, he accepts the honor, yet inside, he’s unraveling—proof that even recognition can feel like a curse when inspiration is nowhere to be found."

Not long ago, AudioGust released the bright and punctuated title track 'Here We Go Again', an upbeat tribute to the unpredictable nature of creative inspiration, capturing an artist’s late-night encounter with his muse—an unexpected, almost mystical moment when a song begins to take shape in his mind.

His new 14-track album is deeply personal and universally relatable. An ode to the highs and lows of creativity, it includes some of his most popular singles, along with new material. Blending raw energy with introspective storytelling, the album explores the unpredictable nature of inspiration—both the exhilarating moments when it strikes and the emptiness when it fades.
 
AudioGust explains, "This album is split into songs that describe the extremes of the fickle nature of inspiration and songs that have come to me in both of those places". Offering a deep dive into the creative process, this record features six brand-new songs as well as fan-favorite singles, including 'Tomorrow is Mine', a finalist in the 2024 USA Songwriting Contest.
 
With a knack for crafting memorable melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, underscored by upbeat rhythms and evocative guitar arrangements, AudioGust creates music that speaks to the disenchanted and dreamers alike through sonic exploration of the modern human condition. AudioGust released his debut album 'Walk With Me' in 2023, followed by the 'Hope from Darkness' and 'Love and Pain' EPs.

'Here We Go Again' is available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp.  The full album by the same name will be released on May 30.

ALBUM CREDITS
All songs written by Chris Evans
except 'How You Been?' written by Chris Evans & Liz Rodrigues
Recorded, mixed & mastered by AudioGust on Whidbey Island
Performed by AudioGust
Liliana Tani - vocals on 'Dead to Me'
Leslie Irish Evans - announcer's voice on 'Award Show'  
Cover artwork by Chris Evans
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with AudioGust
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Press contact

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
Website | Facebook | Twitter |  Instagram | BlueSky | Threads  | Soundcloud | LinkedIn | Emai l

THE HALO EFFECT - release Japan-only bonus track 'Not Yet Broken'

After proving to be a force to be reckoned with through the critical and commercial triumph of their latest album March Of The Unheard and a massively successful, sold-out European tour, Swedish melodic death metal powerhouse THE HALO EFFECT return with a brand new offering.

The band proudly releases 'Not Yet Broken' — a heavy, hypnotic, and deeply melodic anthem that until now was exclusively available as a Japan-only bonus track. Fueled by crushing riffs, haunting melodies, and the unmistakable energy that defines THE HALO EFFECT’s sound, 'Not Yet Broken' stands as a testament to the band’s unwavering creative fire.

STREAM THE SONG ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/nybsg

WATCH THE VISUALIZER BELOW:
 

Guitarist and main songwriter Niclas Engelin comments:”I think we are fortunate to have this flood of creativity going since day one. Here is another song we have been waiting for you all to hear, it’s been talked about for a loooong time and now the time is right to unleash this riff/melody - monster for you all! This song was written during the long inspiring sessions we had for the album Days Of The Lost. We hope you will enjoy this song as much as we do, let’s bring it on the set list for this summers festivals!!”

STREAM THE ALBUM ON ALL PLATFORMS:
https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motulp

THE HALO EFFECT is:
Niclas Engelin | guitar
Jesper Strömblad | guitar
Mikael Stanne | vocals
Peter Iwers | bass
Daniel Svensson | drums

BEAST IN BLACK and Blizzard Entertainment’s Diablo® Join Forces to release new track 'Enter The Behelit' to mark Berserk Crossover

Today marks the epic convergence of three cultural titans: Diablo®, the critically acclaimed franchise that defined the Action RPG genre; acclaimed manga, Berserk; and Finnish heavy metal band, BEAST IN BLACK, who have collaborated to launch an exclusive track 'Enter The Behelit.' Releasing on limited-edition vinyl and worldwide digital distribution, a music video debuts today as well to mark the unleashing of this unholy event.

The crossover event with Berserk – the beloved, classic manga written and illustrated byKentaro Miura – will take place in Diablo® IV and its mobile instillation, Diablo Immortal, beginning May 6 and May 1 respectively. Both Diablo and Berserk explore themes of good versus evil against a backdrop of terrifying darkness, making this crossover a perfect match for fans.

The Maxi Single

The limited-edition maxi single will feature a brand-new song ‘Enter The Behelit’ from BEAST IN BLACK, inspired by Berserk and produced exclusively for the game, as well as remastered versions of fan favourite tracks ‘Die By The Blade’ from the album From Hell With Love, and ‘The Fifth Angel’ from the band’s debut album, Berserker. With many songs taking inspiration from Berserk story and characters, the Finnish heavy metal band's music often reflects the undercurrents of struggle, fighting against overwhelming odds, and battling inner demons – themes that are prevalent in the games of the Diablo franchise.

Two hundred maxi singles have been lathe cut on black and red marbled vinyl and feature artwork from Diablo IV and Diablo Immortal, all created hand in hand the Diablo art team and the Berserk IP holders. The front of the vinyl heroes Diablo IV, while the back features key art from Diablo Immortal. The vinyl also includes a turntable zoetrope slipmat, band stickers, behind the scenes negative photos and concept art from the Diablo IV development team behind the Berserk partnership.

"The essence that swells in boundless volumes from the juxtaposition of light and darkness, angels and demons, good and evil, the carnal and the spiritual, is the key that seamlessly binds together the aesthetics and narratives of Diablo, Berserk and Beast In Black’’, said Anton Kabanen, guitarist and songwriter on BEAST IN BLACK.

"To somewhat poetically reflect on this extraordinary yet congruous collaboration I can say it feels almost as if this newborn and destined-to-be trinity has been designed by the God Hand itself. On behalf of Beast In Black’s team I express our sincerest gratitude to the dedicated teams at Blizzard, Berserk and Nuclear Blast. Thank you for making this happen. And finally, my individual acknowledgement and bottomless gratitude goes - as always - to Kentaro Miura’’.

The track will be digitally distributed by Beast in Black’s record label, Nuclear Blast, and will go live on streaming platforms on April 28th, with a music video being launched on Nuclear Blast’s YouTube channel at 5PM CEST/4PM BST/8AM PST on the same day.

The Music Video

'Enter The Behelit' official music video: https://youtu.be/nxFW6ggUqu0

‘Enter The Behelit’ is accompanied by a bespoke video from award winning director, Katri Ilona Koppanen, who also directed the music videos for BEAST IN BLACK tracks: 'Moonlight Rendezvous', 'Hardcore', 'Power Of The Beast' and 'One Night In Tokyo'. The exclusive video features an animated trailer, inspired by Diablo and Berserk and incorporates the band’s love of the manga and gothic art of Diablo, bringing the story of 'Enter The Behelit' to life.

Shot in Helsinki, Finland, the music video will also receive a behind the scenes making of video showcassing the collision of the dark worlds of Diablo x Berserk, with the support of Beast in Black.

Berserk Crossover in Diablo Games

Diablo IV Season 8: Belial’s Return, will launch on 29th April and heralds the return of Belial, one of Diablo’s Great Evils, and marks the continuation of Diablo’s dark storytelling in the form of challenging boss fights and even greater spoils.

For the month of May, Diablo players will have the chance to slaughter demons donning iconic Berserk-themed cosmetics. to date and incredible in-game content.

In Diablo IV, this includes the Berserker armour for the Barbarian, Skull Knight skin for the Necromancer, as well as the “Chimimoryo” as an in-game pet. Additional items can also be earned through gameplay or for purchase in the in-game shop.

In Diablo Immortal, players will be able to gear up in Guts’ Berserker armour or Griffith’s incarnated armour, play alongside a Golem as a familiar, and even face off against iconic characters from the Manga series. The crossover includes a boss fight with Nosferatu Zodd, one of the most formidable foes of the Berserk series, an eclipse inspired Survivor’s Bane mini-game and Griffith and Guts inspired cosmetics for every class of the game.

You can find out more details about Diablo IV: Belial's Return and the Crossover between Diablo and Berserk here:

https://www.blizzard.com/en-us/diablo-berserk

Changeling Premieres Debut Album

Fretless guitar virtuoso Tom “Fountainhead” Geldschläger is known for his work in Obscura’s Akróasis era, his live work with Defeated Sanity, Belphegor, Nader Sadek and many others. Now, he's continuing to bend progressive death metal under his blistering fretwork as Changeling. His latest brainchild is both an homage to the genre's biggest innovators and an expansive vision of its future.   

Changeling Out Now but you can hear all 10 eye-opening songs by listening to the full album stream below.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/changelingchangeling

Changeling fuses the heaviness of technical death metal with classical, jazz and world music. Along with plenty of Tom's signature mind-bending fretless guitar solos, the album features fretless bass, synths, oud, microtonal arrangements, a choir and more than 50 guest musicians, including current and former members of Fear Factory, Alkaloid, Virvum, Subway to Sally, Trans-siberian Orchestra, King Diamond, Ne Obliviscaris and Cynic.

Lead single "Abyss" carves colossal riffs from quarter-tone modulations. The whirling arpeggios of "Falling in Circles" call back to Tom's performance on "Akróasis" while the title track ventures into oriental percussion and microtonal synths. Together, the songs on Changelingunfold like a psychedelic experience, moving from disorientation to dissolution and finally, realization.   

Tom composed Changeling with spatial audio specifically in mind. The Dolby Atmos version of the album hits streaming services May 23.

Changeling blends progressive metal, death metal, jazz-fusion, world music and complex orchestration into an hour-long submersion into the subconscious. Players from around the world can follow Tom Fountainhead's lead with a new series of Changeling transcription books. Tom wrote the approx. 500 page guitar transcription book himself, while core bandmate Arran McSporran transcribed the 75 page edition for bass. 

Both the guitar and bass transcription books will come out alongside the album on April 25th. The massive complete transcription book - which includes guitar, bass, drums (transcribed by Fenix Gayed), orchestral arrangements, vocals, lyrics and detailed liner notes from Tom - will come out on May 23rd, the same day as the Dolby Atmos mix of Changeling.

Each transcription book will be available both as a physical book and digitally through Guitar Pro or as a PDF. All physical copies will be personally signed and include a free download of the digital version.

The album, sharing its name with the project, blends progressive metal, death metal, jazz/fusion, and world music, enriched with complex orchestrations by a 50-piece ensemble of guest musicians. It includes the eagerly anticipated “Part 2” to his renowned composition “Weltseele,” an orchestral metal epic from Obscura’s billboard-chart-entering “Akroasis” album, which broadly introduced Fountainhead to the metal community in 2016.

Core Lineup:
Tom Fountainhead (ex-Obscura, Amogh Symphony, Belphegor, Defeated Sanity) - Fretted & fretless electric & acoustic guitars, oud, keyboards, composition and arrangements.
Mike Heller (ex-Fear Factory, Malignancy, Raven) - Drums.
Arran McSporran (Vipassi, Virvum) -  Fretless bass.
Morean (Alkaloid, Dark Fortress) - Lead vocals & lyrics.

Guest Musicians:
Bill Hudson (Trans-siberian Orchestra, Doro, I am Morbid) - Guest guitar solo
Jason Gobel (ex-Cynic, ex-Monstrosity)- Guest guitar solo
Andy Laroque (ex-Death, King Diamond) - Guest guitar solo
Yatziv Caspi (ex-Orphaned Land) - Tabla, hangdrum, dabouka, riq & shakers
Ally Storch (Subway To Sally)- Violins, viola & cello
James Dorton (The Faceless, NeObliviscaris, Black Crown Initate) - Spoken words
Alexander Kerski (Vianova)- Backing & harmony vocals
Matthias Alexander Preisinger - Piano and glockenspiel, violins & viola
Martin Matiasovic - Horns & Wagnerian Tube
Jan Ferdinand - Vibraphone & marimba
Chris Rützel - Flutes
Ivar Ludvig Nitzler - Cello
Shiho Murano - Tuba
Juliane Erding - Wagnerian tube & horn
Eduard Cortez - Wagnerian tube & horn
Tillmann Schulz  - Wagnerian tube & horn
Ava Bonam - Female vocals
Moran Magal - Piano
Cydney McQuillan-Grace, Lauren Gill, Shannon Bedford, Sara Robalo; Tenor and Bari - Ben Francis, John Schaffer,  Alice Williams, Cyd McQuillan-Grace; Alto - Lauren Gill, Sara Robalo; Tenor and Bass - James Schouten & John Schaffer - Choir vocals
Krassimir Jossifov - Trumpet
Brandt Attema - Trombones & bass trombones
Kristian Petkov - Bassoon
Stefan Prost - Church organ
Seonghyeon Park - Clarinet
Arnfried Falk - Oboe
Rouven Haliti - Upright bass
Dalai Cellai - Cello

Recording Studio:
FountainheadHQ, Hellersounds, Saforill, Klanghafen, Landesmusikakademie Berlin, Musikhochschule Carl-Maria-Von-Weber, Muziek Studio Beeld, Sonictrain.

Production Credits:
Produced & Engineered by Tom Fountainhead.
Mixed by Tom Fountainhead at FountainheadHQ.
Mastered by Leon Schmidt at his home studio & FountainheadHQ.

Cover Art:
Aaron Pinto (Gutslit) / KidSquidy
 
Photography:
Alexander Kerski / Comicsans_ultra

➤Pre-save & Pre-order: https://orcd.co/changelingchangeling

Follow Fountainhead & Changeling:
Website:http://www.thefountainhead.de
Facebook:http://facebook.com/tomfountainheadgeldschlaeger
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/changeling.official
Bandcamp:https://changelingofficial.bandcamp.com/
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/fountainheadtv
Apple Music:https://music.apple.com/artist/changeling/294821510
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/4MbRUvwQcEBzryOhWMHkvV

Booking Contact:
Tom Fountainhead
thefountainhead@gmx.net

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear w/ Red Splatters
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - White w/ Red Splatters

Drought Announce Album New Album "Souvenir" + Share "We're the Flora" (Feat. Pat Flynn of Fiddlehead + Have Heart)"

While many hardcore bands focus their fury outward, Drought turn inward — channeling personal struggle to chart a different path.

Formed in 2022, the Bay Area band —guitarists Eric Nakano and RJ Rabe, drummer Ray Avila, and vocalist Viggy Ram — found common ground in shared influences like Pianos Become the Teeth, mewithoutYou, and Title Fight to overcome personal hardships and isolation. After recording a three-song EP in 2022, Drought brought their emotionally charged live shows to stages alongside Jeromes Dream and vs self before catching the attention of Iodine Recordings.

Now, Drought return with Souvenir, recorded to tape by Jack Shirley (Deafheaven, Gouge Away) at Atomic Garden Studios.

The result? Souvenir sounds less like a debut and more like an established act.

It arrives July 18. Pre-order it here.

They share "We're the Flora," featuring Pat Flynn of Fiddlehead and Have Heart. Listen below.

It boasts the powerful lyric sentiment — "They say all flowers in time bend toward the sun, so when I find the light, what will I become?"

"These lyrics were inspired by a visit to a bouquet art exhibit," says Viggy Ram. "All of these flowers and plants had been clipped and fashioned into these beautiful structures — giving them a second life as something new. And I think of our relationships with our parents and families. Generational trauma sometimes cuts us off from our histories and identities, but this can also be an opportunity to grow and blossom."

Regarding the guest vocal from Flynn, he says, "It was especially fitting to have Pat from Fiddlehead and Have Heart graciously guest, since he's often written about similar experiences. It felt like a comforting sentiment from a mentor or teacher, especially considering his influence on our band."

These 13 songs on Souvenir channel moods and emotion with conviction, shaped by years of perspective. Additional guest vocals from Eric Butler (Mom Jeans) and Alex Rudenshiold (Infant Island) lend further weight to Souvenir, weaving with the band's dynamic arrangements and situating the record firmly in the evolving world of post-hardcore and emo. Against a background of balanced melody and dissonance, Viggy Ram's lyricism is as introspective as it is existential.

Drought will play shows this summer and fall, including New Friends Fest, Your Renaissance Fest, and Fest 23 in Gainesville. Dates to be announced soon, so stay tuned.

DROUGHT LIVE:
5/2 — San Francisco, CA — Thee Parkside w/ Cancer Bats, Strawberry Girls
5/24 — Los Angeles, CA — Your Renaissance Fest w/ Portraits of Past, the Spirit of Versailles
8/2 — Toronto, ON Canada — New Friends Fest w/ Beau Navire, Rolo Tomassi, the Saddest Landscape
10/23 —  Tampa, FL— Brass Mug w/ Signals Midwest, Audio Karate
10/24 — Gainesville, FL — FEST 

DROUGHT ARE:
Viggy Ram — Vocals 
Ray Avila — Drums
RJ Rabe — Guitar
Eric Nakano — Guitar

Skillet Release "Ash In The Wind [Live]" Track + Video Following "Nothing But The Blood" Collab w/Colton Dixon + Summer Touring

22x platinum, Grammy-nominated band SKILLET have released "Ash in the Wind [LIVE]" to DSPs, along with a live video of the track to Vevo/YouTube. Filmed live during the 2025 Winter Jam tour, the track and video capture the raw, live and infectious energy fans expect from SKILLET. 

Last week, the band also released a special collab of "Nothing But the Blood" with Colton Dixon that has seen over 1 million views to date.  

Having sold out arenas in 32 countries across five continents, including their first-ever, sold out Middle East tour last fall, SKILLET have also announced their summer international tour.  Hitting 17 cities, the tour will encompass Skillet shows mixed with annual rock festivals throughout Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and more. The band also recently announced VIP upgrades with Meet & Greets on select dates (see asterisk). Full routing below, with details available here.

SKILLET released their 12th studio project REVOLUTION last November, with streams for focus tracks "Unpopular," "All That Matters," and "Ash In The Wind" soaring and music leaving critics raving, calling it a "hard-rocking freight train," "fantastic" and "exactly what fans want."

SKILLET SUMMER 2025 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR: 
5/1 — St. Petersburg, FL — Jannus Live
5/2 — Orlando, FL — Bayside Stadium - SeaWorld Orlando
7/14 — Cumberland, MD — Allegany County Fair
7/18 — Central Point, OR — Jackson County Fair
7/22 — Goshen, IN — Elkhart County 4H Fair
7/23 — Marion, IL — Marion Cultural and Civic Center
7/24 — Mason City, IA — Mason City Arena
7/26 — Hot Springs, AR — Magic Springs Theme Park
7/30 — Darien Center, NY — Kingdom Bound
8/1 — Danville, VA — The Carrington Pavilion
8/2 — Valdosta, GA — Wild Adventures Theme Park
8/3 — Gautier, MS — The Sound Amphitheater
8/9 — Victoriaville, QC — Rock La Cauze
8/16 — Sunbury, PA — Spyglass Ridge Winery
8/17 — Kettering, OH — Fraze Pavilion

8/23 — Pigeon Forge, TN — Rock the Smokies — Dollywood
8/29 — Grand Island, NE — Fonner Park

ABOUT SKILLET: 
After nearly three decades, eleven albums, and thousands of shows worldwide, Skillet play louder, fight harder, and sound more rebellious than ever. As of 2024, the band have received two-time GRAMMY® Award nominations, picked up a Billboard Music Award, and landed three albums in the Top 5 of the Billboard 200. Selling over 22 million units worldwide, they have notched multiplatinum, platinum, or gold RIAA certifications for a total of 12 singles and four full-length albums. Not to mention, they have regularly attracted 10 million monthly listeners on Spotify, boasting “one of the most-streamed rock songs of all-time” with the 5x-platinum “Monster.” Their presence has impressively surged throughout popular culture with syncs by WWE, Marvel, ESPN, and NFL in addition to coverage from USA Today, The New York Times, and more. As a live force of nature, they have touched down on five continents and in 32 countries, packing arenas everywhere from the Middle East to Russia. Not to mention, Skillet expanded their world with the graphic novel series EDEN. The first installment stood out as Z2 Comics’ best-selling book of all-time. Now, the global hard rock quartet—John Cooper [lead vocals, bass], Korey Cooper [guitar, keys], Jen Ledger [drums, vocals], and Seth Morrison [lead guitar]—deliver an insurgent, infectious, and inimitable body of work with their twelfth full-length offering and first-ever independent album, REVOLUTION, led by the single “Unpopular" and focus tracks "All That Matters" and "Ash In The Wind." 

FLAT BLACK Release Acoustic Version of "Sideways" Recorded Live at SiriusXM Octane

Guitarist Jason Hook introduced his new band FLAT BLACK last year. The former Five Finger Death Punch guitarist teamed up with a trio of young and talented musicians and signed with Fearless Records. Their debut album Dark Side of the Brain arrived last summer. The album was produced by Hook and Chris Collier (Korn), and recorded at both Hook's home studio and The Hideout. Get it here or here. 

The band has released the acoustic version of the single "Sideways," which was recorded live at SiriusXM Octane.

Listen to "Sideways" here.

"Hard rock and metal isn't just a sound, it's an attitude and a vibe," says Hook. "Sometimes, it's Marshall stacks and pyro in an arena, and sometimes, it's stripped down to its most vulnerable components. We could not be more stoked to be asked by SiriusXM Octane to launch their new acoustic series and we are excited to share it worldwide with this release."

Flat Black are also launching a guitar contest today, Friday, April 25. They are giving away a signed Epiphone Hummingbird Aged Antique Natural Gloss guitar in partnership with Gibson Gives. For over 130 years, the iconic and leading American instrument brand Gibson has been shaping sound across generations and genres. Gibson, and its charitable non-profit division Gibson Gives, believe in the power of music, and that getting instruments into the hands of those with a desire to make music is a life-changing event. Gibson Gives, a 501(c)(3), is committed to making the world a better place by supporting non-profit organizations and developing programs in our efforts to advance musicians through music education, and health and wellness initiatives worldwide 100% of all donations to and from Gibson Gives go towards giving the gift of music. In the last five years, Gibson Gives has raised over $5.5 million and enabled $52.5 million in funding for key organizations through product donations and meaningful giving worldwide. For more information, go here.

ABOUT FLAT BLACK:
"I feel like FLAT BLACK is a secret I've been keeping for three years," Hook says. "It's finally time to unleash this band on the world. I'm grateful to Sully from Godsmack for giving us the chance to get out on the road and play for such an amazing group of fans."

Despite having reached a commercial summit with his prior band, thanks to multiple platinum certifications, sold-out arena shows, and a string of No. 1 singles, Hook remains as hungry for musical blood and thunder as the day he first picked up a guitar at the age of six. He is eager to not only replicate but to surpass his past successes with his new band.  

Having left his prior band in February 2020, which was right before COVID-19 put the entire world on pause, Hook wanted to assume creative control and let his musical free spirit soar in a project that was truly his. He opted to gamble on himself. With great risk comes great reward and the decision to form FLAT BLACK clearly worked out in his favor.

"As a musician, I crave freedom and I wasn't ready to stop creating," Hook shares.

"Life is short," he continues. "We all want to feel satisfied and happy with what we are trying to accomplish in life." 

 The pandemic shutdown allowed him the opportunity to assemble the right musicians and carefully craft their debut album. FLAT BLACK are armed with an arsenal of riffs that'll rattle your teeth loose from your gums, stadium-sized hooks, arena-ready anthems, and choruses that are guaranteed to touch a nerve. All of those factors combined make FLAT BLACK poised for success.

The origin stories of the rest of the players are indicative of a lifelong love of music and plenty of road-worn experience. The desire to play courses through their veins and propels them forward, which is why they all meshed so well with Hook.

Singer Wes Horton was introduced to music at age 13, thanks to his sister and Guitar Hero. He honed his vocal chops by playing in local bands and making online videos. Various music industry friends and acquaintances would become the connective tissue between himself and Hook. Horton knew he wanted to be a frontman, and FLAT BLACK afforded him that opportunity. Wes loves the fact that his bandmates prioritize songcraft — and that allows him to be the singer he has always wanted to be. 

Bassist Nick Diltz, who was born and raised in Los Angeles, is the son of a legendary rock music photographer who brought him to concerts during his formative years. He recalls being inspired by watching a VHS video of U2 performing at legendary venue Red Rocks. Seeing fans clamoring for a piece of Bono in the footage is a vision that never left his head. This first exposure to the power of a true rock icon solidified Nick's destiny as a live performer.

Drummer Rob Pierce hails from Nashville, aka Music City. His dad was a race car driver and his grandfather was a pastor. He grew up racing go karts and at first, wanted to follow in his dad's footsteps until he joined the fourth grade band and was bitten by the music bug. He chose the snare drum over the saxophone and from that moment on, music was the only thing that mattered. Rob got his first drum kit at age 11, which he set up in his dad's car shop. He learned to play his instrument next to 1,000 horsepower engines, which influences his highly energetic style to this day.The chemistry between the players in FLAT BLACK is palpable. And while FLAT BLACK's songs are built to take up real estate in the brains of fans for weeks at a time, the true nature of the band's material is meant to be experienced live. FLAT BLACK are now ready to hit the road and bring these brutal bangers to the masses live and in the flesh.

FLAT BLACK ARE:
Jason Hook — Guitar
Wes Horton — Vocals
Rob Pierce — Drums
Nicholas Diltz — Bass

American Idol Winner Iam Tongi Brings the 'Sunshine' with New Track

“American Idol” Season 21 winner and Hawaii native, Iam Tongi, releases new track, “Sunshine,” today via 19 Recordings ahead of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Written by Tongi along with Tyler Cain and Johnny Reid, the song finds Tongi basking in positivity and feel-good warmth with a fusion of country and reggae sounds offering a dose of sonic Vitamin D to match his Hawaiian home. Listen to “Sunshine” HERE.
 
Recorded in Nashville at Soultrain Sound Studios, Tongi says of the song, “Even though I just turned 20, I’ve had to face some pretty difficult times in my life. When I lost my dad a few years ago, it made me realize how short life is. It also made me take stock of what really matters. My mom is my biggest hero and inspiration, and she has always pushed me to be kind, work hard and be a better version of myself, no matter what.”
 
Tongi continues, “I wrote ‘Sunshine’ because I wanted to spread love, light and positivity to the world. Even when times are tough, you can find goodness around you.”

At just 18-years old when he auditioned, the Hawaiian born singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist won hearts around the world and brought Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, to tears with his emotional performance of James Blunt's "Monsters," dedicated to his father Rodney who had recently passed away - watch it HERE. The audition went on to become the most watched on the show’s YouTube with 36 million views. Tongi became the first Pacific Islander to win the series and went on to earn his first Billboard No. 1 on the Rock Digital Songs Sales Chart after releasing his debut single, "I'll Be Seeing You" 
 
Tongi is set to make his CMA Fest debut June 5 on the Dr Pepper Amp Stage as well as his Grand Ole Opry debut on June 11. He is currently on the road with dates across the U.S. through the summer and fall with more to be announced soon. For the latest news including tour dates and new music visit  iamtongiofficial.com and follow along @wtongi on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook. 
 
Upcoming Tour Dates
May 10             Nashville, TN            Nashville Soccer Club Halftime, Geodis Park 
June 5               Nashville, TN            CMA Fest, Dr Pepper Amp Stage
June 11             Nashville, TN            Grand Ole Opry House 
June 21             Del Mar, CA              Corona Grand Stage / Toyota Concert Series  
Sept 1                Puyallup, WA            Washington State Fair
Sept 5                Concord, CA             Toyota Pavilion at Concord 
Sept 10              Phoenix, AZ              Arizona Financial Theatre

About 19 Entertainment
19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television, is led by executive producers Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman, with key programs including the global hit “American Idol” co-produced by Fremantle for ABC and “So You Think You Can Dance” co-produced by dcp for Fox. Additionally, 19 Recordings has launched the music careers of platinum artists, including Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry, Phillip Phillips, Lauren Alaina, and more recently, Gabby Barrett, Chayce Beckham, Iam Tongi, and country artist Will Moseley.

LANIE GARDNER RELEASES STUNNING NEW TRACK “CONCRETE COWBOY” AVAILABLE NOW

Named a "2025 Artist to Watch” by the Recording Academy/GRAMMY and Amazon Music, Lanie Gardner - who has toured with the Jonas Brothers and Jelly Roll - today drops the vocally and lyrically stunning “Concrete Cowboy.” Boasting a seductively alluring beat and delivered with sultry and commanding confidence, an Appalachian Mountain-raised-rebel recounts being scorned by a wide-eyed city boy. Written by the rising powerhouse with producers Katie Cecil and Chris Ganoudis, listen to the breathtaking song below. 

“‘Concrete Cowboy’ is calling out the boys who roll in from the city pretending to be good ol’ country boys,” says Lanie. “Sneaky little posers who take advantage of hearts that love quick and love strong—the hearts of Southern belles. I reckon you've got to have a heart made of concrete to do a woman like that. But the truth is that maybe these poor guys just never learned how to love a good ol’ country girl. And that? That’s a damn shame—for them.”

Catching the attention of Thomas Rhett and Warren Zeiders, she most recently collaborated on their just-released fan-favorite tracks – “What Could Go Right”  and  “Love In Letting Go,” respectively. Gearing up to drop even more new music very soon, the CMT 2025 Next Women of Country member has been actively readying her next project while out on Corey Kent’s “Black Bandana Tour.” 

Known for her exquisitely gorgeous and strikingly distinct vocals, she initially gained notability when she covered Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” Quickly going viral with over 60M views, the vocally iconic cover soared into the Top 25 of Billboard’s Rock charts, leading to collaborations with David Guetta and MORTEN.

With her original music equally as scroll-stopping, the rising songstress - who Billboard foresees as “a true artist with staying power" and MusicRow raves as “one of the most exciting rising stars today" - has been featured on the popular Twisters and Queen of the Ring movie soundtracks. Following the release of her debut album, A Songwriter’s Diary, that she wrote entirely by herself, Lanie has quickly become a rising force in country music. Blending her timeless roots with a bold, alternative edge, the budding breakout star released her cheeky, unapologetic anthem “Buzzkill” to critical acclaim. 

Taking the stage at 2025 Stagecoach Festival for the first time tomorrow, catch Lanie Gardner at prominent country music festivals such as CMA Fest, Carolina Country Music Festival and more, before hitting the road with Gavin Adcock for his “Need To” Tour this fall. 

Upcoming Tour Dates:
APR 26 – Indio, CA
JUN 5 – Nashville, TN
JUN 7 – Myrtle Beach, SC
JUL 16 – Great Falls, MT*
AUG 21 – Wichita, KS*
AUG 22 – Colorado Springs, CO*
AUG 23 – Salt Lake City, UT*
AUG 28 – Richmond, VA*
AUG 29 – Salem, VA*
SEP 11 – Independence, MO*
SEP 12 – Irving, TX*
SEP 14 – Chesterfield, MO*
SEP 25 – Bridgeport, CT*
SEP 26 – Pittsburgh, PA*
SEP 27 – Buffalo, NY*
OCT 3 – Wilmington, NC*
OCT 4 – St. Augustine, FL*
OCT 17 – Athens, GA*
* with Gavin Adcock

ABOUT LANIE GARDNER:
Lanie Gardner’s extraordinary journey is a testament to her unmatched talent and unwavering determination, from her roots in the Appalachian Mountains to international stages. A gifted storyteller and songwriter from an early age, Lanie crafted a distinctive blend of classic rock and country influences that quickly set her apart. Her career skyrocketed after her cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” went viral, approaching 60 million views. Holding her own with her debut album A Songwriter’s Diary, which was released late 2024, the 10-track collection, written entirely by Gardner, invited listeners on a deeply personal journey through her roots and creative beginnings. Fast forward, she’s released the fiery “Buzzkill” and vocally stunning “Concrete Cowboy,” marking a bold new chapter in her anthemic and distinct sound. Acclaimed by Billboard as “a true artist with staying power" and by MusicRow as “one of the most exciting rising stars today,” Lanie’s rise has been marked by significant milestones, including being named by the Recording Academy and Amazon Music as a “2025 Artist to Watch” and to CMT’s Next Women of Country: Class of 2025. From being featured on the movie soundtracks for Queen of the Ring and Twisters to touring with the Jonas Brothers, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson and ZZ Ward, Lanie is on the fast-track to stardom. Most recently, she collaborated with country superstar Thomas Rhett and Warren Zeiders, being featured on their just-released tracks “What Could Go Right” and “Love In Letting Go,” respectively.  The momentum continues as she wraps Corey Kent’s “Black Bandana” Tour, hits iconic country music festivals such as Stagecoach, CMA Fest and Carolina Country Music Festival, and prepares for Gavin Adcock’s “Need To” Tour this fall. Her soulful sound and captivating stage presence have earned her widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base. As she continues her ascendancy, Lanie remains a genre-defying artist.

KEEP UP WITH LANIE GARDNER
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

Breaking Benjamin's Keith Wallen Shares Video for New Single "Us Against the World"

BREAKING BENJAMIN guitarist KEITH WALLEN dropped his most recent solo album Infinity Now last year via Rise Records. Get it here. 

Today, he shares the new single "Us Against the World."

Watch the video below. 

The black and white video finds Wallen and the band in the desert, performing and cruising in a convertible. The simplicity matches the escalatation in the music and  allows the emotional heft of the song to come to the forefront. But it's not as simple as it seems. Stick around until the end for a little Lost Boys inspiration.

"Life, death, triumph, tragedy...love transcends it all," says Wallen. "'Us Against the World' is a song for the fighters, the believers, and the ones who never let go."

ABOUT KEITH WALLEN:
Keith Wallen is a prolific songwriter responsible for soaring melodies and hypnotic hooks heard across modern rock radio. The West Virginia-born troubadour uses his solo work as a vehicle to explore his multifaceted passions, moving seamlessly from the smart pop of '80s favorites like The Police and Depeche Mode to the big moody riffs of '90s grunge heroes like Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, and Stone Temple Pilots. 
 
His co-writing collaborations include compositions with Saint Asonia, Fuel, We Came As Romans, Red, Dorothy, and Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch's Love And Death. Wallen bares his soul as a solo artist with earnest resolve, powering his honest anthems with commanding vocals. 
 
A former member of Adelitas Way, Keith was among his first calls when Benjamin Burnley decided to reform and reconfigure his band. Dark Before Dawn, Breaking Benjamin's powerhouse comeback, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Ember followed in 2018. 
 
Keith's self-produced acoustic and piano-driven Allies EP arrived in 2014. His debut solo album, 2021'sThis World Or The Next, featured "Dream Away," a song streamed 1.4M times on Spotify alone. His second solo album, Infinity Now, includes production and co-writing contributions from Kevin Thrasher (RIVALS, Jelly Roll) and work with Dan Braunstein (Spiritbox, Dayseeker) and Andrew Baylis (Sleeping With Sirens, Jelly Roll, Brantley Gilbert). 
 
Produced by Kevin Thrasher (Jelly Roll, RIVALS) and mixed by Joel Wanasek (Rain City Drive, Scott Stapp), Keith's sophomore solo album, Infinity Now, extends a warm invitation into the singer/songwriter's heart and mind. Hard rock bombast meets intimate pensiveness via engaging songs like "Blackout," "Strings," and first single, "Headspace Holiday."
 
As guitarist for Breaking Benjamin, a solo artist or songwriting collaborator, the common threads through Keith Wallen's work are honesty, authenticity, and heartfelt spirit. 

Progressive Metal Unit JACK THE JOKER Reveals New Single “Denied” + Music Video

Today, progressive metal unit JACK THE JOKER are excited to share their new single “Denied,” out now via Frontiers Music Srl. The new single is accompanied by a music video, available to view below.

The musicality of “Denied” is structured in the rhythmic cells of maracatu, an Afro-Brazilian tradition that carries the marks of struggle and celebration. The pulsating beats breathe life into the song, creating an intense and emotive atmosphere.

JACK THE JOKER comments on the new track:

“'Denied' brings a rare combination of a melodic 'prog' tune with direct regional music influences to us here in the Northeast, more specifically the Maracatu. The song is a social examination of the inequality of opportunities that plagues our country; the abysmal difference between those who come from different realities.”

Watch the Music Video for “Denied"

JACK THE JOKER is a modern progressive metal band with a twist hailing from the Northeast of Brazil. The band consists of Raphael Joer (vocals), Felipe Faco (guitar), Lucas Colares(guitar), Gustavo Pinheiro (bass), and Vicente Ferreira (drums).

The band is notorious for incorporating traditional influences from their local culture, including musical styles such as maracatu, forró, baião and frevo.

Their sound draws inspiration from the eponymous renowned Brazilian novel and explores the metaphysical backlands, where human will prevail against the hostility of nature.

The instrumental arrangements delineate the environment by fusing regional genres with rock and metal to create a landscape that mirrors the themes in the lyrics.

This captivating musical odyssey has already garnered a significant amount of buzz in the prog scene through the first two singles released in 2024.

Stream / Listen to "Denied" HERE

JACK THE JOKER are:

Raphael Joer - Vocals

Felipe Facó - Electric/Acoustic Guitars

Lucas Colares - Electric/Acoustic Guitars

Gustavo Pinheiro - Bass Guitars

Vicente Ferreira - Drums and Percussions

Celeste Corsano debuts with captivating 'Sunlight Gazing' single via Magic Door Record Label

Pennsylvania-based artist Celeste Corsano presents her debut single 'Sunlight Gazing', a penetrating ethereal rock offering from the latest artist to be added to the growing roster of the blossoming Montclair, NJ-based indie label Magic Door Record Label. 

An innovative singer-songwriter, Celeste Corsano's music blends poetic lyricism with adventurous arrangements, unexpected rhythms and a distinct emotional range -- from ethereal and moody to playful and bold. Marked by a natural use of mixed meters and layered vocal timbres, her fearless approach to storytelling always seeks the deeper truth within each tune.

"So much talk is cheap. From the media, to circles of our influence and community, to family and friends. There is so much posturing, hidden agendas, wanting 'what's best' and ego, and insecurity.  We're all trying to survive and build our dreams, and we all have our template of words that we often use to communicate to others and also to ourselves, but we starve for real words and real feeling to give and receive from others and our own inner voice," says Celeste Corsano.

"To veer away from the flock is scary, but to be aware and be scared  while moving away from the flock is courage. "Smoke from a fire not lit yet..." My hidden potential... sometimes I just need to tune out all the talk and the influences....what's that you said?  "I'm busy sunlight gazing, I can't hear you anymore".

For the past year or so, Corsano has been working with renowned producer Ray Ketchem (Guided by Voices, Elk City, Gramercy Arms, Luna, Crash Harmony) at Magic Door Recording Studio, who not only produced, but also recorded, mixed and mastered this release and several recordings to follow. 

With Ketchem also on drums, this single also features fantastically notable guitarist James Mastro (The Bongos, Mott the Hoople, Ian Hunter, Patti Smith, John Cale) and keyboardist-bass player David Nagler of Nova Social (who has also played with Joan Baez, Aaron Neville, Rosanne Cash, Andrew Bird, Steve Earleand Yo La Tengo). Corsano notes, "Ray's drumming created the fundamental sound and direction for these songs and was a true catalyst for the sound and vibe"..

Raised on a steady diet of lyric-driven artists like George Harrison, Leonard Cohen and John Lennon, she later fell under the spell of David Bowie, Pink Floyd, Kate Bush, and the pulse of the new wave and punk scenes. Quite active in NYC’s live music scene during her youth, she also wrote poetry, studied art and absorbed sound at a granular level.

Beginning her music career performing traditional Celtic and Bluegrass music across the tri-state area before evolving into a solo artist, writing her own material, Celeste Corsano comes from a deeply musical family, drawing constant inspiration from her brothers - Latin roots musician Tony Corsano and avant-garde percussionist Chris Corsano(Björk, Kim Gordon, Thurston Moore).

Celeste also had the benefit of developing her listening ear while attending countless studio recording sessions with her first husband, Brad Morrison, producer and founder of Absolute A-Go-Go Records, known for working with such notable artists as Phish, the Figgs and Spiral Jetty.

'Sunlight Gazing' is out now, available from fine online music platforms, including Bandcamp.  Additional releases are expected to follow throughout 2025. 

CREDITS
Written by Celeste Corsano
Produced by Ray Ketchem
Celeste Corsano - vocals and piano
James Mastro - guitars
David Nagler - bass and synths
Ray Ketchem - drums
Cover artwork by Chris Corsano
Released by Magic Door Record Label
Recorded, mixed & mastered by Ray Ketchem at Magic Door, Montclair NJ
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR


Keep up with Celeste Corsano
Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Press contact

Keep up with Magic Door Record Label
Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram  | Soundcloud | YouTube | Magi c Door Studio | Press contact

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NATALIE BERGMAN ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM, MY HOME IS NOT IN THIS WORLD, OUT JULY 18th ; LEAD SINGLE "GUNSLINGER" OUT NOW

Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and producer Natalie Bergman announces her sophomore solo album, My Home Is Not In This World, out on July 18 via Third Man Records [Pre-Order/Save HERE]. The project arrives with the release of the album’s lead single and cinematic video, “Gunslinger” a genre-bending desert anthem that introduces the album's spellbinding sonic palette.

Bergman’s solo work and debut album Mercy received widespread critical acclaim and acknowledgement from the likes of NPR and Rolling Stone. With My Home Is Not In This World, she steps further into her own mythology, one that feels both grounded in lived experience and elevated by an otherworldly grace.As she continues to evolve, Natalie Bergman is ready to move hearts, shake spirits, and remind us all where home truly lies.

“GUNSLINGER” is available here.

California's Matthew Nowhere presents 'Transforming' feat. Lunar Twin, previewing debut album

California-based electronic pop artist Matthew Nowhere presents his single 'Transforming' feat. Lunar Twin, the latest taster of his forthcoming debut record 'Crystal Heights', an epic 13-track album that serves as a loud and welcome introduction to this fascinating artist.

As vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and producer, Matthew Nowhere explores the synth and tape-laden sounds of the 1980s with inspired reverence. Emerging from the intersection of old and new, his unique music weaves deep vibes and poetic lyrics with gritty New Wave beats. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area and currently residing in California's Nevada County in the forests of the Sierra Mountains, Matthew Nowhere uses authentic analog production styles in creating deeply authentic and soulful music that speaks to the power of love to overcome all obstacles.  

Based in Hawaii and Salt Lake City, Lunar Twin have been mainstays on the American dreamgaze scene for many years, this cinematic music duo made of up vocalist Bryce Boudreau and multi-instrumentalist Christopher Murphy. Blending chill electronic beats, soulful downtempo vibes, and poetic lyrics, they create ethereal, hypnotic soundscapes perfect for late-night drives - as evident from their latest 2023 album 'Aurora'.

With Boudreau on vocals for ‘Transforming’, a fine layer of silk has been woven into the fabric of an already sublime futuristic composition. Boudreau also contributes on another track - 'Persist3nce' - along with Lunar Twin bandmate Christopher Murphy.

“The collaboration with Bryce on this song started with some impressive synchronicity, and the whole process really set the tone for a lot of the 'Crystal Heights' album itself. Bryce is incredibly gifted at inhabiting these sonic spaces – and he immediately understood exactly what the song needed and what it was trying to convey. I think working together brought out the best in both of us,” says Matthew Nowhere.

Bryce Boudreau adds, “I was swept away by the grandeur of Matthew’s music on this song and immediately envisioned  a coastal night world populated by dreamers and drifting souls caught in between the dusk and dawn of coastal neon. The rest of story wrote itself. I’m excited to finally be able share this song.”

Matthew Nowhere earlier previewed two singles from this album - the moody and evocative 'Echoes Still Remain', with ethereal vocals lacing through a pulsating soundscape like the brooding rhythmic ghost of celebrated new wave pioneers and 'Love Is Only What We Are', a song about the profound human longing for authentic love, suggesting that this yearning is actually a seed with the potential for the love we seek.

"Music to me is literally magic. I am transforming feelings into sounds. And if I’m going to do that kind of alchemy, the feelings I want to share are ones that are meaningful and transformative. Life is wild and mysterious, and it doesn’t always make sense. But the important things - connection, love - are always grounding and I can’t think of anything else I want to focus my life on," says Matthew Nowhere.

As of April 23, 'Transforming' is available from fine music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. The 'Crystal Heights' album - now available for pre-order - will be released digitally and on Limited Edition transparent blue vinyl on May 23.

CREDITS
Music composed by Matthew Nowhere (Matthew Lin Packard)
Lyrics by Matthew Nowhere
except ‘Transforming’ and ‘Persist3nce’ - lyrics by Bryce Boudreau
Matthew Nowhere - vocals, synths, bass, guitar, drums, drum machines, programing & sequencing
Bryce Boudreau – lead vocals on ‘Transforming’ and ‘Persist3nce’
Chris Murphy – additional synths on ‘Persist3nce’
Antonio Family Singers – choir on ‘Persist3nce’
Produced by Matthew Nowhere. Co-produced by Bryce Boudreau
Mixed & mastered at Nowhere Sound Studios
Recorded at Nowhere Sound (Grass Valley, CA), Tiny Flame Studios (Petaluma, CA), Ohia Forest Recordings (Kealekua, Hawaii), Desert Heat Studio (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Cover artwork by Violet Flame Design
Artist photos and videography by Anjali Rivera
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with Matthew Nowhere
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | BlueSky | TikTok | Soundcloud | YouTube| Apple Music | Spotify | Press contact

Keep up with Lunar Twin
Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Threads | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
Website | Facebook | Twitter |  Instagram | BlueSky | Threads  | Soundcloud | LinkedIn | Emai l

Jersey Shore Rockers TRIGGER Share Classic Track "One In A Million"

In early 1979, TRIGGER walked out of Electric Lady Studios with a completed second album. Mere months had passed since their self-titled debut came out on Casablanca Records, home to KISS and Parliament. The band had toured with Cheap Trick and The Godz, met Bruce Springsteen and Joni Mitchell, and things were looking bright.

But, Casablanca unexpectedly went bankrupt, and the label’s artists went into freefall. TRIGGER unsuccessfully sought interested parties, shelved the recordings and disbanded; a disappointing end for a band who dominated the Jersey Shore club scene on their way up with fiery, kick ass live shows.

RIP TRIGGER: 1973-1979.

Jump to 2024. Guitarist Richie House is living in Northern New Jersey with his wife, enjoying a relaxing afternoon at the community pool with neighbors. One of them, Andrew Wexler, is shocked to discover his friend had a band in the ‘70s. He listens to their recordings, and as an avid record collector, assumes the mission of getting that unheard second album released. He writes to Ba Da Bing, a label with Jersey roots. Much excitement ensues.

The long-awaited release, 'Second Round,' will now be available on May 30th. All original members — Derek Remington (vocals/drums), Jimmy Duggan (guitar/vocals), Tom Nigra(bass guitar/backing vocals), and Richie House (lead guitar/vocals) — are present on the recordings. Sadly, Duggan and Nigra have passed away, but Remington and House have overseen this reissue, with songs sourced directly from the analog masters.. The TRIGGER of today maintains a high level of quality, albeit with a bit less flair, and even less hair.

And there’s more going on here than at first listen. While the band carries the earmarks of their era - melodic hard-rock fashioned for Saturday night parties - they override the cliché with incredibly catchy songs. How would a ripping song like “Back Talk” have been received in 1979? It’s a question we’ll never be able to answer, but the raw energy of the track spans generations. “One In A Million,” however, with its full harmonies and forceful chorus, could have easily made the soundtrack for Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

Celebrate the discovery of this lost gem by giving it a listen. You’ll be TRIGGER happy…

Listen to "One In A Million"

In the mid ’70s, TRIGGER earned a reputation along the Jersey Shore for their electrifying live shows, airtight harmonies, and arena-ready riffs, earning them a deal with Casablanca Records thanks to support from labelmates KISS. They are the reason Foreigner didn’t name themselves TRIGGER, as first planned. Upon finishing their second album, Casablancaabruptly shuttered, their album shelved. Now, decades later, 'Second Round' will finally be heard, offering a time capsule to a band at peak creativity—undeniably powerful, unapologetically melodic, and long overdue for recognition.

'Second Round' finally brings to life the lost chapter of TRIGGER’s story. Their 1978 self-titled debut showcased dynamic songwriting and relentless energy, leading them to tour with Cheap Trick and The Godz. They quickly begin work on a second album. Recorded at the legendary Record Plant and Electric Lady Studios, 'Second Round' would be the next step, but it was never released. Thanks to a record-collecting friend of guitarist Richie House, Ba Da Bing was made aware of this offense and devised plans to right things.

“One In A Million” is probably their most radio-ready song for 1979. It starts with a blaring synth running on the beat before breaking into a killer guitar riff. All of it builds to the chorus, with all band members singing backup. This is the second single Ba Da Bing has shared off 'Second Round' and a fine taster of what’s to come.

Pre-Order 'Second Round' HERE

Watch a Fifteen-Minute Documentary about TRIGGER HERE