Kingcrow Announce New Album with Hard-Grooving Single "Kintsugi"

Embark on a journey of resilience and reinvention with KINGCROW as they soar to new progressive heights on their upcoming eighth album Hopium. Catch the high-flying Italian prog-metal band as they display their eagle eye for poignant lyrics and grooving melodies on the album's powerful lead single, "Kintsugi". 

Watch the video for "Kintsugi" Below.

Hopium is out August 23 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & pre-save: https://orcd.co/kingcrowhopium

Hopium continues Kingcrow's steadfast commitment to exploring the depths of emotion, a trait that has solidified their standing in the hearts of music enthusiasts across the globe. With "Kintsugi", listeners are invited into a world where imperfections are not merely accepted but celebrated with golden seams of strength.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient Japanese art of repairing broken pottery, "Kintsugi" beautifully parallels life's ability to recover from adversity, a theme that's intricately woven throughout Hopium. The single is an anthem for anyone who has ever faced defeat, only to rise again with a renewed sense of purpose and beauty.

The music video for "Kintsugi" was masterfully crafted by Riccardo Nifosì and Devilnax.

The first incarnation of the band  was originally founded in Rome, Italy, by brothers Diego Cafolla (guitars) and Manuel Thundra Cafolla (drums) under the name of "Earth Shaker".

Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's poem "Raven" and driven by a will of change, the band's name was soon altered into KINGCROW and a couple of self-produced demos/albums where recorded under the KINGCROW moniker: Something Unknown(2001), Insider (2004) and Timetropia (2006).

In the early months of 2010 the band finished recording their new album “Phlegethon” that was released in June of the same year under the “Scarlet Records” label.

It was considered on an international level as a relevant masterpiece and was classed as one of the elite progressive metal albums of the year. It has been near the top of the “album of the year” charts in some international prog-rock websites. Phlegethon promotion lasted for about two years and a half.

During the same year, the band recorded the new album “In Crescendo” that was released in February 2013 by the American label “Sensory Records.

The band toured  along with Pain Of Salvation in North America  in April and May, 2013. In 2015 the band released the album “Eidos” and toured Europe as Headliners. Meanwhile KINGCROW signed a management deal with GlassVille Music, house of very well known progressive acts like Pain Of Salvation and Riverside among others.

The band recorded the new album titled “The Persistence”.

The album was released on September 7th via Sensory Records and received great reviews and ended on a lot of “best of 2018” lists on magazines and webzines.

The upcoming album “Hopium” marks another step forward in pushing boundaries remarking the restless progressive  attitude of the band in incorporating countless influences into a personal sound.

Describing the band today is quite a difficult task, but one could state that the influence of different kinds of music, from progressive rock , ambient music, alternative rock and metal are all present in the music of KINGCROW.

With each release KINGCROW has taken a step further away from their original roots and is regarded today as one of the most exciting bands that Italy has to offer.

Line-up
Diego Marchesi - Vocals
Diego Cafolla - Guitars, Keys, Backing Vocals
Ivan Nastasi - Guitars, Backing Vocals
Riccardo Nifosì - Bass, Backing Vocals
Thundra - Drums, Percussions

Recording Studio
Sound Under Pressure (Rome, Italy)

Production Credits
Produced by Diego Cafolla & Thundra Cafolla
Sound Engineer - Diego Cafolla

Mixed by Giampiero Ulacco at Holofram Studios (Francavilla al Mare, Italy)

Mastered by Marco Vannucci at Spitfire Mastering Studio (Italy)

Guest Musicians
Vikram Shankar - Piano solo on "Hopium"

Cover Art
Devilnax

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

Links/Follow Artist:
Official Website: https://www.kingcrow.it/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Kingcrowband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingcrow_official/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/KingcrowBand
Bandcamp: https://kingcrow1.bandcamp.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3nnSgQo8TIgiO5M5pv3mlV
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kingcrow/594989536
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/en/artist/1002506
TIDAL: https://tidal.com/browse/artist/6519112

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black

Sugar Horse Share New Video "Office Job Simulator"

"A sucker punch of sludge-punk'"— Knotfest.com 

"Riff merchants expertly balance filth and ambience" — Metal Hammer

"Beautifully devastating" — Kerrang!

UK quartet Sugar Horse tackle power imbalance with brooding single "Office Job Simulator," taken from their new album Grand Scheme Of Things, to be released on October 4 via Pelagic Records.

Watch the video to "Office Job Simulator" Below.

Stream the single and pre-order the record here.

Vocalist + guitarist Ashley Tubb comments, "Now people that know me definitely wouldn't describe me as a supporter of the British monarchy. However, a few months after the death of my father, The Queen died. First of all, I wasn't bothered by this…then after about two straight days of non-stop press coverage, it started really getting to me. Why does this random woman deserve weeks of non-stop press coverage and faux-outpourings of third hand grief, when regular everyday people (like my dad) are more or less ignored? Life carries on as if nothing has happened. It's kind of disgusting to me in a way. The imbalance of power. Think of this as our comrades call to arms."

"Office Job Simulator" is the third single taken from the upcoming new album, following the release of "The Shape Of ASMR To Come" and "New Dead Elvis."

Regarding the album, the band shares, "This album was intended to be a sideways step. A move away from the kind of thing that is expected of us... if anything is at all. What I mean by that, is the songs are more direct. They take a much shorter amount of time to 'get to the point.' We also wanted to make this one noticeably 'less metal.' While we love being a bit boneheaded and confrontational, we definitely wanted to explore the more melodic, song-based side of the band’s sound. Normally, you'd see shortened song structures and more singing and think, 'Oh these guys are going for gold….they wanna get on the radio and make millions of bloodstained pounds.' Well, you're very much entitled to think that if you wish, but it felt like more of a songwriting challenge than anything else to be honest. We've done the whole drawn out, endless space rock thing a good few times now and it would've been easy to rest on those laurels. Do something we're comfortable with. Alas, that is not really the point of this band. We'd much prefer to make it difficult and take the long route."

The new single and album news follow Sugar Horse's titanic split 7'' with new labelmates LLNN, and previous EP Truth Or Consequences, New Mexico.

Stream and purchase the 7'' here. Order and stream Truth Or Consequences, New Mexico here.

An epic and ambitious achievement, Truth... is, in signature Sugar Horse style, one single long song: a meditation and exploration of everything the note A has to offer.

Sugar Horse recently toured with LLNN, and previously with post-rock luminaries 65daysofstatic across Europe, as well as dates with Pianos Become The Teeth, Liturgy, Chat Pile and an appearance at ArcTanGent festival. A lot of people take the name Sugar Horse to be a drug reference — perhaps fitting for a band that sound like the last moments of a three-day binge. Darting wildly between dark/light, pain/bliss, sacred/profane, Sugar Horse are unpredictable and unrestrained.

Formed in what is now considered to be the utopian dreamscape of 2015, the band grew slowly at first. Far from fully formed, but steadily gaining limbs, heads and vital organs. Finally, 2019's DRUJ followed swiftly by 2020's DRUGS saw them hit on a relentless stride of eclectic releases that simultaneously confused and entranced audiences.

2021 saw the band encamp in a former Lutheran church to record their debut album, The Live Long After, releasing it via Brighton’s own Small Pond Records. Publications such as The Quietus describing the record as "shift[ing] dispositions fluidly, taking elements of extreme aggression alongside floaty post-metal" and Echoes & Dust calling it "a monumental achievement." The album took every disparate element that Sugar Horse previously employed and amplified them, while juxtaposing each next to each other, with genuinely unpredictable and exciting consequences.

2022 saw no relent from the band's fast-paced release schedule, as they put out an anthemic shoegaze single in "Pictures Of Dogs Having Sex," followed swiftly by their collaborative Waterloo Teeth EP. A release that paired Sugar Horse's terrifying eclecticism with guest appearances from 12 other artists in just four short(ish) songs. Each artist coming from a different area of the modern British music scene, whether that be world conquering post-punk bass lines from IDLES' Adam Devonshire, heavy titans Conjurer and Pupil Slicer’s throat crippling wails, or a shredding guitar solo from Biffy Clyro/Oceansize axe wielder Mike Vennart. The EP packs in an album’s worth of genre mutilating twists and turns into just 25 minutes of music.

Thornhill Announce New Live Album "Live On Tour!"

Spanning the globe and a captivating array of material, Thornhill have announced the upcoming release of a brand new live album. Live On Tour! is due out on June 21 via UNFD. Pre-order it here.

Boasting tracks recorded across the globe over the past two years, Live On Tour! features new and old Thornhill favorites captured in the wild, with singles taken from their debut 2019 album The Dark Pool and their sophomore 2022 album Heroine, as well as their latest material.

Featuring recordings from performances in Seattle, New York, Manchester, Cardiff, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cologne, Atlanta, the UK's Newcastle, Sydney, Perth, and their hometown in Melbourne, Live On Tour! ultimately showcases Thornhill's voracious live prowess, while also celebrating the band's towering diversity and innovative craftsmanship from across their catalogue.

"It's been an incredible experience getting to tour around the world in the past two years since the release of Heroine," the band shares. "We have so many great memories, and wanted to share some of our favorite live moments with you before we get started on the next chapter of Thornhill."

Accompanying the announcement of Live On Tour!, Thornhill have also released the live version of their most recent single "Obsession." Recorded live in Perth, "Obsession Live" exudes pure primal energy, with its rugged sonic sensuality heightened by its live setting along with searing riffs and vocalist Jacob Charlton effortlessly flitting between sumptuous swoon and torrid vigor.

Watch the visualizer for "Obsession Live" Below. 

The impending release of Live On Tour! will also offer fans a chance to score themselves a piece of Thornhill history, with the album set to release on two exclusive vinyl colourways. Boasting a black and white splatter and a pink galaxy vinyl, pre-orders for these Live On Tour! vinyl variants are available now exclusively via unfdstore.com and 24hundred.net.

Eternal purveyors of artful and engaging heavy creations, Thornhill have always possessed a flair for nuanced rock beyond their influences. Via their ARIA Award-nominated 2022 album Heroine, Thornhill solidified an undeniable reputation as one of the most innovative and immersive heavy acts in the Australian scene. Debuting at #3 on the ARIA Album chart, Heroine also debuted at #1 on the Australian Album chart, and has since had more than 8.5 million streams to date.

Ticking off a huge year in 2022, including selling out most of their headline tour, supporting The Butterfly Effect nationally, appearing at Good Things Festival and performing their first ever US headline shows on the East Coast, Thornhill have also amassed a heaving array of accolades over the years, including triple j's Feature Album and additions to countless Best Of The Year listings for their 2019 release The Dark Pool.

Thornhill kicked off 2024 supporting Silent Planet on extensive North American run, before joining Aussie heavies Polaris on tour in the UK and Europe and appearing at Impericon Festival alongside As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red and While She Sleeps. The band will return to North America this June for an extensive tour supporting Northlane alongside Invent Animate and Windwaker, kicking off in Seattle on June 21 and closing out in California on July 27.

Thrown Announce Debut Album "EXCESSIVE GUILT" + Share Video for "look at me"

"Nu metal and grooves deeper than the Mariana Trench" — Metal Hammer UK

"This rips" — Daniel P. Carter/Radio 1 Rock Show 
 

Swedish heavyweights thrown, following up on their previous singles the latter having made a significant impact by hitting the Viral Top 50 in both the USA and Australia this year, and together amassing over 23 million streams worldwide — return with their brand new track "look at me."

Watch the video Below.

Adding to the excitement, the band has announced its first-ever album, EXCESSIVE GUILT, out on August 30 via Arising Empire. Pre-save EXCESSIVE GUILT here.

Despite not having an album out yet, thrown have already amassed over 72 million streams worldwide.

Last year, thrown released their debut EP, EXTENDED PAIN, sitting in Spotify's Top 200 Global Metal Chart for almost a year with over 26 million streams across its five songs. From zero to nearly 600,000 listeners with their explosive tracks, thrown took the stage by storm touring with Counterparts and Knocked Loose.

US TOUR DATES:
WITH SPITE AND BODYSNATCHER
5/31 — Denver, CO — Summit
6/1 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Complex
6/3 — Portland, OR — Hawthorne Theater
6/4 — Seattle, WA — The Crocodile
6/6 — Sacramento, CA — Ace Of Spades
6/7 — Pomona, CA — The Glasshouse
6/8 — San Diego, CA — House Of Blues
6/9 — Mesa, AZ — Nile Theater
6/11 — Dallas, TX — House Of Blues
6/12 — San Antonio, TX — Vibes Event Center
6/13 — Houston, TX — White Oak Music Hall
6/14 — Oklahoma City, OK — Beer City Music Hall
6/15 — Little Rock, AR — The Hall
6/16 — New Orleans, LA — House Of Blues 

Get tickets here.

ICYMI:
Stream/download the EXTENDED PAIN EP here.

Vocalist Marcus Lundqvist is joined by Johan Liljeblad and Andreas Malm on guitars, and drummer Buster Odeholm (Vildhjarta/Humanity's Last Breath) as thrown aim to spread their message of self-loathing through their mix of gut-punching metalcore and anger-inciting hardcore.

THROWN ARE:
Marcus Lundqvist | Vocals
Johan Liljeblad | Guitar
Andreas Malm | Guitar
Buster Odeholm | Drums

Fearless Records Signs Ryan Woods to Global Roster, Artist Shares "Garden" Video

FEARLESS RECORDS is thrilled to announce the signing of Ryan Woods to the label's global roster.

To celebrate the good news, Woods has shared the video for "Garden," his debut single for the label.

Watch it Below. 

"'Garden' is a song about love and all its beautiful forms," Woods explains. "When you find it, you must care for it and cultivate it as you would a garden. If not cared for properly, your plants die, weeds grow, and you lose any growth or harvest you hoped for."
 
After one listen, it would be easy to assume Ryan Woods fell from the heavens and landed smack dab in the middle of modern pop music and culture. He defies genres and eras with an otherworldly je ne sais quoi. Flaunting a sky-high range and head-turning fashion sense, Woods exudes a swaggering gusto befitting of your favorite '70s rock star, yet he opens up with a level of candor decidedly intrinsic to Gen Z. Musically, he laces D.I.Y. pop with psychedelic experimentation and existential ruminations that are both provocative and catchy. Initially, he gained traction with covers on social media, even inciting a retweet from Shawn Mendes. Woods has cultivated his signature style by logging countless hours in both Nashville and Los Angeles sessions. "Bad Texter" was a breakthrough moment in 2021 — reeling in over 26 million Spotify streams and counting, it paved the way for his King of the Basement EP. Of the latter, Thomas Bleach raved,"“This EP highlights that growth and introspective manner that has made him an artist you need to keep an eye on," while INTERSECT Magazine applauded, "Woods' lyrics are poetic, witty, and most of all, authentic." 

Now partnered with Fearless, Woods is ready to bring his dreamy compositions, which are so much more than bedroom pop, to an even wider audience. 

Fame on Fire Share "Nightmare (The Devil)" Video

FAME ON FIRE — Bryan Kuznitz (vocals), Blake Saul (guitarist), Paul Spirou(bass), and Alex Roman (drums) — roared into 2024 with the new single "Nightmare (The Devil)." This venomous track was just the first taste of what the band has been working on and is currently sitting just outside the Top 20 at Active Rock Radio. It is also having a viral moment over on TikTok, racking up a whopping 50 million streams.

Now, the band has dropped the video for the track. Watch it Below. 

"We are so happy we were able to bring our vision for 'Nightmare' to life," says Kuznitz. "The whole team absolutely killed it and we love how this video turned out."

ICYMI: The band also shared the video for "Spiral (Justice)" and it's another rager that will rip your head off and hand it back to you. Watch the video here.

More new music from the band is on the way, with additional touring also planned. So stay tuned, and for now, smash the "Subscribe" and "Like" buttons.

The Palm Beach, Florida-based hit-makers are riding high off the massive success of their smash "Welcome To The Chaos," which hit #16 at rock radio. But there's no rest for the wicked and the band is busy crafting new hits to add to their growing discography which boasts over 300 million streams.

Leaving absolutely nothing on the table, Fame On Fire have carved out a lane all their own by pushing the boundaries of the relationship between rock, hip-hop, and heavy music, and by unapologetically being themselves. The band also impressed on tour with industry heavyweights like ONE OK ROCK, Our Last Night, Falling In Reverse, and Ice Nine Kills. The band snagged a coveted spot on SHIPROCKED 2023 and this spring, they hit the road with SIM, playing 1,500 cap rooms. As the band members prepare for a sinister new chapter, they admit it's been a long road and it's due time to step into their power. "I feel like we keep getting more and more honest with every song we release. We are writing the music we want to hear," Kuznitz adds.

For Fame on Fire, the ceiling doesn't exist, but if it did, they'd barrel right through it anyhow. 

EXODUS - Release Live Album 'British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria)!

Today, American thrash metal masters EXODUS release their live album 
British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria)!
35 years of being locked away in the band's vault, the album now sees the light of day. The energy and heaviness that EXODUS radiate on these live recordings give every metal fan a reason to add it to their personal collection. A MUST for every metalhead!

To commemorate this massive release, the band have released a great visualizer video for their new live single 'Piranha (Live At The Astoria)'.

Gary Holt comments on the live album:
"I, as well as all the band, former members and current, are super excited for the release of the new(old!) live record, British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria)! When we first discovered these long hidden master reels, we were intrigued. When we listened, we were crushed! Can’t wait for everyone else to hear this record! A band on fire."

Purchase British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria) here: 
https://exodus.bfan.link/british-disaster-the-battle-of-89

Watch the new visualizer video for 'Piranha (Live At The Astoria)' Below.

Recorded on the 8th of March in 1989 at The Astoria in London, fans witnessed a night that went down in history and became legendary among EXODUS and thrash metal fans worldwide. The band had just released their third studio album Fabulous Disaster and started a five month run to promote the album which brought the Americans also to Europe for a month of live shows. During this European run EXODUS decided to record the show in London, but never released it. This recording remained unheard of in the EXODUS vaults. Until now! 
Be prepared for a much more aggressive and rawer sound than on the studio albums. British Disaster: The Battle of '89 (Live At The Astoria) is the ultimate live album presenting the sheer energy of what made EXODUS famous and notorious for during the 80s and what made them a legendary thrash metal band. A best of setlist compiled from the band's first three classic albums. The live album, mixed and mastered by Zeuss and the artwork done by Mark DeVito, will be available as CD, 2LP vinyl and digital.

EXODUS is:
Steve ‚Zetro‘ Souza  - vocals
Gary Holt – guitars
Rick Hunolt – guitars
Rob McKillop – bass
Tom Hunting – drums

Introducing CRUCIFICTION + Band Shares Video For "Caged for Extermination"

Ready for a brutal blast from a brand new Florida deathcore band?

Then you've come to the right place.

Allow us to introduce you to CRUCIFICTION, the new band from Bloodbather's Salem Vex. The band has shared the video for its debut single, "Caged For Extermination" and it slays from top to bottom.

Watch the video Below.

"'Caged For Extermination' is a showcase of the wide variety of influences listeners can expect to hear from CRUCIFICTION. Lyrically, it's about revenge and the satisfaction it bring," says Salem Vex.

Living well isn't the best revenge! Instead, crafting a deathcore anthem that will leave you scraping your brain off the floor is truly the best revenge.

The band's debut album will be released later this year via Rise Records.

D.R.U.G.S. Drop "Hunger Pangs" Video

Post-hardcore band Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows (D.R.U.G.S.), featuring Chiodos' Craig Owens, have come roaring back with the video for the new single "Hunger Pangs." Watch it Below. 

It is the first taste of music from the band's forthcoming third album. The upcoming release follows two acclaimed albums, 2022's DESTROY REBUILD and 2011's self-titled debut. 

"'Hunger Pangs' is a song about an insatiable urge and unquenchable thirst for love. This song is both a new era and return to form for D.R.U.G.S.," says Owens. 

In conjunction with the release of "Hunger Pangs," and in anticipation of the announcement of their new album, D.R.U.G.S. will embark on a headline tour of the U.S. this summer, with Savage Hands, Downswing, and The Requiem coming along for the ride. All dates are below. Get tickets here.

Having now surpassed 10 million cumulative streams, the band's previous album DESTROY REBUILD offered listeners the uniquely nostalgic D.R.U.G.S. sound they had been craving while also exploring new territories, marking a perfect progression and exciting new chapter for Craig Owens. The aggressive melodies paired with low-tuned guitars and introspective lyrics created a slab of the nostalgic alternative rock sound that we all grew up with and have come to crave. Owens' knack for creating sincere lyrics shined through while touching on topics like destiny, perspective, and redemption on 'DESTROY REBUILD.' It is a physical manifestation of the course he has taken in his musical career and encapsulates each step along the way. It is a bright reflection of one's life and actions, and it encourages the listener to do the same in their own life.

Fans can anticipate the forthcoming third album to be another step in the ongoing evolution of Craig Owens.

DESTROY REBUILD UNTIL GOD SHOWS ON TOUR:
WITH SAVAGE HANDS, DOWNSWING, + THE REQUIEM:
6/7 — Pontiac, MI — The Crofoot
6/8 — Lakewood, OH — The Winchester
6/9 — Buffalo, NY — Rec Room
6/10 — Pittsburgh, PA — Preserving Underground
6/12 — Syracuse, NY — The Song & Dance
6/13 — Stroudsburg, PA — The Sherman Theater
6/14 — Brooklyn, NY — The Meadows
6/15 — Cambridge, MA — Middle East Restaurant and Club
6/17 — Richmond, VA — The Canal Club
6/18 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819
6/19 — Greenville, SC — The Radio Room
6/21 — West Palm Beach, FL — Respectable Street
6/22 — Tampa, FL — The Orpheum
6/23 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
6/25 — Houston, TX — White Oak Music Hall
6/26 — San Antonio, TX — The Rock Box
6/27 — Dallas, TX — RBC Deep Ellum
6/29 — Phoenix, AZ — The Rebel Lounge
6/30 — Pomona, CA — The Glass House
7/2 — Portland, OR — Dante's Live
7/3 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon
7/5 — Salt Lake City, UT — Soundwell
7/6 — Billings, MT — The Pub Station
7/7 — Denver, CO — Marquis Theater
7/9 — St. Paul, MN — Amsterdam Bar & Hall
7/10 — Chicago, IL — Reggie's Rock Club
7/11 — Nashville, TN — Eastside Bowl

THOMAS THUNDER Releases New Upbeat, Latin Jazz, Instrumental Single "Sunshine"

Are you ready for summer? "Sunshine" is the newest release by upcoming musician and songwriter Thomas Thunder. This 16 year-old prodigy wrote, arranged and plays the drums on this upbeat, Latin jazz, instrumental song. The incredible session musicians on this composition are Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater) on piano, Ric Fierabracci (Blood, Sweat and Tears) on bass and Terminus Horns (Snarky Puppy) on saxophone, trombone and flute. The song was mixed by Ron Bumblefoot Thal.

Thomas Thunder's "Sunshine" buy/stream links:

https://linktr.ee/ThomasThunder

https://thomasthunder.hearnow.com/sunshine

WATCH "Sunshine" Official Music Video Below.

Thomas Thunder is a 16 year-old upcoming musician, songwriter and drummer from Boston, Massachusetts. His prodigious songwriting has captured the attention of both fans as well as professional musicians.

Thomas began his journey as a musician when he started drum lessons at age five. He started playing in performance bands at age seven at School of Rock, and in addition to drums, he’s learned to play bass guitar, upright bass, guitar and keyboards. Thomas is currently in three School of Rock bands, is an assistant music teacher, and recently joined the Providence Drum Troupe.

In regards to songwriting, Thomas began at age ten when he released his first single and was awarded a prize in the New England Songwriting competition. In fact, Thomas grabbed the attention of the ‘King of Keyboards’ Derek Sherinian (Sons of Apollo; Dream Theater; Alice Cooper) with his songs. By the time Thomas reached the age 14, he released his debut album The Pharaoh's Temple, and his team of session musicians included Derek, Ron Bumblefoot Thal and Tony Franklin.

Thomas also began his collegiate academic journey at age 14. He began taking Berklee College of Music Online courses, and has achieved a Berklee Professional Drum Certificate at 15 years-old, and a Professional Music Theory and Composition Certificate at age sixteen. In fact, Thomas graduated high school almost two years early in January 2024, and at age 16, he was accepted full time into Berklee College Online Bachelor’s of Arts in Composition for Film, TV and Games. His achievements were highlighted by local news stations, including NBC, CBS and WPRI.

The future looks bright for Thomas Thunder!

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

YouTube

VRSTY Share "World on Fire" Cover — LISTEN

Genre-blending and bending New York City-based collective VRSTY (pronounced "Varsity")  have shared their cover of Nate Smith's 200 million-streaming smash "World On Fire." Listen Below.

 "The first time I heard this song, I was absolutely stuck," says singerJoey Varela. "I haven't heard a song that's hit me this hard in a long time. Everything from the lyrics to the way that it's composed is just absolutely amazing to me. I think I knew instantly that I was going to cover it. My only fear was not being able to do the song justice.. but I think I did okay."

VRSTY dropped its most recent album Levitate last fall via Spinefarm. Get it here. 

VRSTY are on tour through the summer. All dates are below.

VRSTY ON TOUR:
6/1 — Mechanicsburg, PA — 10 Years Birthday Bash 
6/15 — Pawtucket, RI — The Met (With Wind Walkers)
6/16 — Hartford, CT — The Webster (With Wind Walkers)
6/17 — Vienna, VA — Jammin Java Vienna, VA (With Wind Walkers)
6/18 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819 (With DRUGS, Wind Walkers, Savage Hands)
6/19 — Columbia, SC — New Brookland Tavern
6/20 — Orlando, FL — Will's Pub (With Wind Walkers)
6/21 — Atlanta, GA — Purgatory at Masquerade (With Wind Walkers)
6/22 — Jacksonville, NC — Hooligans (With Wind Walkers)
6/23 — Richmond, VA — Canal Club (With Wind Walkers)
8/17 — Brooklyn, NY — The Meadows (With A Skylit Drive)
8/18 — Rochester, NY — Montage Music Hall (With A Skylit Drive)
8/20 — Lakewood, OH — The Foundry (With A Skylit Drive)
8/21 — New Kensington, PA — Preserving Underground (With A Skylit Drive)
8/22 — Baltimore, MD — Ottobar (With A Skylit Drive)
8/23 — Mechanicsburg, PA — Lovedraftz (With A Skylit Drive)
8/24 — Clifton, NJ — Dingbatz (With A Skylit Drive)

ABOUT VRSTY:
VRSTY (pronounced "Varsity") make music as energetic and richly diverse as the city that spawned them. Assembled by band leader Joey Tyler, a Puerto Rican singer from New York City raised on R&B, pop, and Spanish music and equally inspired by metallic post-hardcore, VRSTY blends genres with fearless ambition and visceral enthusiasm. A handful of EPs preceded 2020's debut album, Welcome Home, itself followed by a three-part series of sequel EPs solidifying the band's reputation.  
 
The band (comprised of guitarist Paul Gregory, bassist Javier Dorrejo, drummer Chris Cody, and Tyler) specializes in what Kerrang! described as "endless grooves and danceable parts, punctuated by breakdowns and completed with dark atmosphere." Meanwhile, "Massive,”"from 2020's Cloud City EP, remained the Most Played on SiriusXM's Octane for two consecutive weeks. In a 9/10 review, Outburn described Welcome Home as "effortless, fun, and above all genuine." Blabbermouth raved: "While other bands may have introduced the concept of genre-bending, VRSTY have refined it."
 
Genuine authenticity and uncompromising passion are crucial to everything about VRSTY. Levitate, the band's stunning sophomore set, is powered by spirited conviction and a commitment to follow their muse wherever it leads. It's an album of rich melodic hooks and headbang-inducing grooves. 
 
Tyler co-produced Levitate with Justin Deblieck (Ice Nine Kills, Motionless In White, Lorna Shore, Fit For A King). George Lever (Sleep Token, Holding Absence, Loathe) handled mixing duties. 
 
VRSTY commands the crowd anytime they perform, connecting with anyone who struggles with feelings of low self-worth, bad relationships, or generally feels like an outsider. It’s a feeling of shared community evident on the band's tours with the likes of 10 Years, Nonpoint, Secrets, and For The Fallen Dreams, among others. Ultimately, VRSTY aims to encourage, provoke, and inspire listeners. 

Invent Animate Announce 'Heavener (Definitive)' Out Now via UNFD

Invent Animate fans, rejoice! The atmospheric metalcore trailblazers have announced the release of 'Heavener (Definitive)' , and dropped their new track "How We Used To Say Goodbye" (via UNFD). Before today, Invent Animate shared "Sleepless Deathbed" which has amassed nearly 1.5 million streams on Spotify alone and 216k views and counting on YouTube. When asked about 'Heavener (Definitive)', guitarist Keaton Goldwire shared:

“Finishing out 'Heavener' was a really special moment for us. There was such deep self-reflection and proudness that formed into an intense motivation. I don’t think was ever a time where I could say I was inspired by my own band, but this one really sparked something. So we kept writing. The songs we came up with are a true extension of Heavener and give us closure to an era. A new, definitive ending.

'Heavener (Definitive)' includes the original album in its entirety, plus “How We Used To Say Goodbye”, recent singles “Sleepless Deathbed” and “Heavener”, and a re-imagined version of “Without a Whisper.” The band will also be offering a premium version of the album on vinyl with a limited-edition D-Side etching, and an embossed jacket with spot gloss and foil stamping. Truly the definitive version of the critically acclaimed album – 'Heavener'.”

Pre-save 'Heavener' (Definitive) and purchase vinyl variants here, stream "How We Used To Say Goodbye" here, and watch the visualizer below.

After wrapping up an entirely sold-out run with Bad Omens, Invent Animate will next be hitting the road on the Mirror's Edge North American Tour 2024 as direct support to Northlane, with Thornhill and Windwalker opening. For ticket information, please click here.

Mirror's Edge North American Tour 2024 Dates:

June 21 - Seattle, WA @ Neptune

June 22 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater

June 23 - Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory

June 24 - Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom

June 26 - Edmonton, AB @ Union Hall

June 27 - Calgary, AB @ Palace Theatre

June 30 - Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater

July 1 - Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues

July 2- Lakewood, OH @ Roxy

July 4 - London, ON @ London Music Hall

July 5 - Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall

July 6 - Ottawa, ON @ Bronson Centre

July 7 - Montreal, QC @ Beanfield Theatre

July 9 - New York, NY @ Irving Plaza

July 10 - Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club

July 11 - Philadelphia, PA @ TLA

July 12 - Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage

July 13 - Charlotte, NC @ The Underground

July 14 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl

July 16 - Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum

July 17 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Heaven)

July 19 - San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center

July 20 - Dallas, TX @ South Side Music Hall

July 21 - Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theater

July 23 - Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall

July 24 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex

July 26 - Anaheim, CA @ House Of Blues

July 27 - Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades

Heilung Announce Live at Red Rocks

Heilung invoked the spirits of the old world for the first time at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre back in 2021. Today, they're announcing Lifa Iotungard, a live album that captures that unforgettable night under the starry Colorado sky on CD and vinyl. 

Watch the video of their live performance of "Traust" Below.

Lifa Iotungard comes out on CD and vinyl on August 9, 2024.   

ᛯ Pre-order & Pre-save: https://orcd.co/lifaiotungard

Recorded live at Red Rocks in October 2021, Lifa Iotungard captures Heilung's sacred ritual. As torches blazed and drums echoed between the sandstones, a sacred space was created, linking the hearts of the present with the spirits of the past.

"Remember that we all are brothers", Heilung recite during their opening ceremony. "All people, beasts, trees, and stones and wind. We all descend from the one great being".

"Traust" unfolds in a powerful surge of throat singing, primordial rhythms and mystic chants. This song - which first appeared on their second studio album Futha - transports listeners back to a time where the veil between worlds was thinnest. Christopher Juul, Maria Franz, Kai Uwe Faust, and their battalion of warriors, equipped with the lore of ages, cast a spell that reverberates through the bones of the Earth itself.

HEILUNG don’t play shows. They perform a ritual. Every performance begins with Kai Uwe Faust leading Christopher Juul, Maria Franz and the rest of the Nordic collective in an ancient prayer. Soon after, the audience is swept into rapture, swayed by incense and throat singing, primordial rhythms, subtle electronic textures, a mesmerizing light show, an army of warriors and bursts of fire.

Since they began in 2015, Heilung have been paving melodic paths to the past with their unique and mystifying sound. Evading all conventional genre tags and the confines of any specific labels, the group aptly self-describes their sound as “amplified history,” emphasizing their ability to connect modern society with the rudiments of humanity’s beginnings through music.

“Our ancestral Nordic civilizations did not just pop up, exist and disappear in isolation”, says Faust, a throat singer and one of Heilung’s three composers. “With singing these primordial songs we want to give tribute to these cultures, reconnect to the beginnings and remember that we all, from East to West, from past to present, are connected through the exchange of ideas and inspiring each other”.  

While Heilung features authentic and archaic instrumentation that ranges from rattles and ritual bells to human bones and throat singing, their captivating brand of music is far from primitive. Producer and founding member Christopher Juul implements subtle electronic elements that elevates the musical atmosphere and provides a more in-depth and layered soundscape.

Indeed, Heilung’s success has been unprecedented, achieving milestones in its few short years of existence that many do not see in a lifetime. The collective already had rapidly been growing a buzz upon the self-release of their first full-length Ofnir in 2015, but their dizzying upward trajectory really took off from the moment they set foot on the stage at Castlefest in 2017 for the now-legendary debut of their live ritual. Luckily for those who were not fortunate enough to bare witness to this magical event, the full ceremony was captured on film, having since been viewed by tens of millions of fans across the globe.

As Heilung trekked across Europe and brought their mystifying experience to new audiences, talk of this new band and their stunning ceremony made way to Season of Mist label owner Michael Berberian, who quickly offered the band a record contract after seeing their undeniable musical impact for himself.

By 2019, Heilung launched their second full-length record, Futha, which contrasted the masculine and battle-heavy themes of their debut with a feminine counterpart that celebrated fertility and female energy. Upon the first week of the record’s release, it graced the Billboard charts with coveted numbers, debuting at #3 on the Heatseekers Charts and #4 on the Billboard World Music Chart, placing on a total of seven Billboardcharts while meeting critical-acclaim from the press on a global scale.  

Their music has even appeared in places that extend far beyond typical concert venues. From hit television series like Game of Thrones and Vikings to video game giants like Conqueror’s Blade VII: Wolves of Ragnarök and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II to the blockbuster Robert Eggers film The Northman, Heilung’s music has risen far above the underground and has transcended into a greater world. Even a global pandemic couldn’t slow down Heilung’s success; it only strengthened them and gave them the gift of time to complete work on their third album. In English, Drif translates as “Gathering”. The music embodies this philosophy by tying together the beginning of civilization with today’s modern society.   

Heilung now perform their rituals all over the world. They sold out their first North American tour in 72 hours. Upon returning to the United States in 2021, they were greeted by another sold-out crowd, this time at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado. This performance will be released on vinyl, CD and Blu-ray in 2024, along with another performance at the Apollo Theatre in Hammersmith, London.  

During the lead-up to the new LIFAs, Heilung will embark on headlining tours of Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Along the way, they will cast their spell over more of the world’s biggest stages, including Roskilde Festival, Download Festival and Glastonbury. But no matter where they are, Heilung always begin their performance with a humbling reminder of where we all come from.     

“Remember, we are all brothers. All people, beasts, tree and stone and wind, we all descend from the one great being that was always there, before people lived and named it, before the first seed sprouted.”

Line-up:
Kai Uwe Faust
Christopher Juul
Maria Franz

Links:
Official Website: https://www.amplifiedhistory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplifiedhistory
Instagram: https://instagram.com/amplifiedhistory
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7sTKZr30LqC928DZ5P9mNQ
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Heilung
Bandcamp: https://heilung.bandcamp.com/music
Bandsintown: https://www.bandsintown.com/a/1977594-heilung

Pre-order & pre-save LIFA Iotungard: https://orcd.co/lifaiotungard

Available Formats:
Digital Download
2CD Digipak
2x12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear and Black Marbel
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Silver
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Gold and Orange Mixed
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Red Rocks Sand-Filled

THE EXIES Announce Long-Awaited EP "Closure" & New Single "s.A.D."

Los Angeles, CA – The Exies are thrilled to announce their long-awaited comeback EP, "Closure", set for release on Friday, June 28th. Alongside today's announcement, the band have also released a brand new video for their latest single, "s.A.D". Fans can pre-save the upcoming EP HERE and watch the lyric video Below.

As a significant milestone in The Exies' illustrious career, "Closure" marks their first body of work in over a decade and features a collection of tracks that delve into themes of reflection, resilience, and new beginnings. The upcoming EP will feature the band's signature - a blend of infectious rock anthems weaved together with introspective lyrics, embodying the band's lasting legacy.

Lifting the curtain behind the "Closure" EP, frontman Scott Stevens shares:

"Closure is about moving from the past so one can walk through the door to the next chapter."

Diving into the latest single "s.A.D.", frontman Scott Stevens adds:

“I wrote ‘s.A.D’ during the grip of the Covid shut down at its highest point. It’s the 1st song that I had written for myself in a long, long time and it became the catalyst for the Closure EP really. It’s about wanting and needing a change. Really reaching to touch and live out your dreams but something always seems to knock you back a peg, yet still remaining optimistic that better days are ahead."

Formed in 1997, The Exies released two influential LPs with Virgin Records, 'Inertia' and 'Head For The Door', achieving combined sales of over 500k and spawning singles that charted at rock radio. Both albums secured positions on the Billboard 200 chart. Their third album "A Modern Way of Living with the Truth" came out in 2007 before the group disbanded in 2010.

The Exies’ music gained significant exposure through placements in numerous video games and tours alongside rock giants like Motley Crüe and Velvet Revolver. Following their hiatus, Scott Stevens continued to leave an indelible mark on the musical landscape with co-written songs amassing over 2 billion streams and selling over 40 million albums.

Now, The Exies are poised to pick up right where they left off with their reunion show and latest single, bringing together the nostalgia of their storied past and the freshness of their current creative evolution.

“For the Viper Room, it’s family; it’s where we got signed. Everything that made a difference for us happened there, so it’s fitting that this is where the reunion show would be held,” Stevens shares, emphasizing the sentimental venue choice for their comeback performance.

Join The Exies as they embark on the next chapter of their extraordinary musical journey.

ABOUT THE EXIES

The Exies, formed in 1997 and named in homage to John Lennon’s shortened term for the 1960s art students in Hamburg that called themselves “the existentialists”, had a prosperous journey, peaking with 2003’s Inertia and 2004's Head For The Door. Both albums were released by Virgin Records and, combined, sold more than 500,000 copies.

In 2007, The Exies put out their third full-length, A Modern Way Of Living With The Truth, before disbanding three years later. Despite frontman Scott Stevens' pivot to songwriting for others, amassing significant accolades and contributions to over 40 million album sales, the band's 2010 dissolution left him longing for closure. This yearning and finding himself at a loose end in the beginning days of the pandemic, Stevens began to write and soon realized that new The Exies songs were materializing before him it just started to unfold happen without him realizing. Speaking on the experience, Stevens shares

“Once I committed to writing and producing for others, I really went in,” he explains. “I just jumped in the ocean and didn’t think about writing for myself anymore. And that’s why it was so odd when I went for a walk in 2020—outside with a mask on—and all of a sudden I hear a melody in my head and I’m like, ‘Who’s that? What’s that?’ And all of a sudden I realized that that’s my voice. It was very puzzling in the beginning, and then it started happening more and more. I don’t know what spurred it on or what caused it. Time? Not being able to work as much? Maybe my mind drifting a little bit more because I have to work. Nobody was coming over here because nobody was going anywhere. And I didn’t want to Zoom write, because although it’s kind of a way of life now and I love it, I was like ‘What is that?’ I really didn’t think about writing for The Exies again until it started haunting me.”

The first of which, 'Spirits High' was released in 2023 and achieved significant success at rock radio. "For What It's Worth" is the next step in the new era of the band. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for more coming from The Exies soon.

Ocean Grove Sign To SharpTone Records + Share Video For "FLY AWAY"

Today, a new chapter rises for the electrifying Melbourne heavy trio Ocean Grove, with the band announcing the launch of its very own label, ODDWORLD Records, as well as their signing to SharpTone Records outside of Australia and New Zealand. 

"We're very pumped to be joining the SharpTone Records family," shares vocalist Dale Tanner. "We feel more ready than ever to represent a label of their caliber and are so grateful for their confidence in us. In return, we hope to bring a fresh and unique sound to their roster as they take The Oddworld global."

Ocean Grove have also unleashed a sonic sucker punch in the form of a brand new single "FLY AWAY," with the trio returning to their salient nu metal traditions.

A blistering concoction of downtuned verses, thunderous grooves, rap vocals and '90s-level grit, "FLY AWAY" is an instant Oddworld masterpiece ready to whip you into a palpitating frenzy.

Watch the video Below:

"'FLY AWAY' is a return to our sonic roots and the definitive OG sound," shares Tanner. "With an injection of fresh energy and experimentation, the song primes the new era of Ocean Grove with a hard and heavy edge."

An electrifying force in the realms of heavy music, Ocean Grove fuse nu metal, hardcore, and alternative rock into a sound like no other — a sound that is entirely and wholeheartedly Oddworld Music.

Comprising an eclectic trio of misfits — the aforementioned vocalist Tanner, bassist/vocalist Twiggy Hunter, and drummer/producer Sam Bassal — Ocean Grove have evolved into a global force to be reckoned with, with their unique talents and a shared passion for inventive thinking turning heads and pushing against uninspired standards and musical norms.

From their 2017 debut album The Rhapsody Tapes, which debuted at #5 on the ARIA Charts, through to their sophomore 2020 release Flip Phone Fantasy and 2022's Up In The Air Forever, both also landing in the ARIA Charts top 10, Ocean Grove have cultivated resounding acclaim for their groundbreaking craftsmanship and fearless experimentation, as well as their unwavering connection to their legion of fans.

Brandishing influences that span Korn, N.E.R.D., and Faith No More, Ocean Grove have never been ones afraid to think outside the box, with their unforgettable creations finding them in hot demand with tours alongside Limp Bizkit, August Burns Red, Crossfaith, and Don Broco, and appearances at the likes of Download Festival Australia, Good Things Festival, and UNIFY Gathering.

A multifaceted light at the forefront of the alternative music scene, Ocean Grove will next appear supporting Polaris for their massive regional Australian tour which kicks off on June 27 in Cairns, and concludes in Frankston on July 28.

Feel the Warmth of Summer with Nikitaa's Soulful New Track, “Delirious Summer”

R&B Pop Singer-Songwriter, Nikitaa, has released their latest single, "Delirious Summer," today. Co-written and co-produced by Nikitaa; "Delirious Summer" is a harmonious fusion of mid-tempo contemporary R&B and psychedelic pop, seamlessly weaving together elements of sound and self-reflection. Born from a moment when life appeared intoxicatingly perfect yet riddled with suspicion, the song encapsulates the paradox of experiencing ecstatic happiness while cautiously questioning its authenticity.

Drawing inspiration from the whirlwind of emotions that accompany unexpected success, Nikitaa found themself captivated by the phrase "I can’t tell if I’m unhinged or just better," which became the cornerstone of their latest musical endeavor. Through its stream-of-consciousness lyrics, "Delirious Summer" offers a poignant glimpse into Nikitaa's innermost thoughts, delving into the delicate balance between healing and delusion that many young adults grapple with.

Inspired by musical luminaries such as Frank Ocean, Blood Orange, and Beyoncé, "Delirious Summer" boasts a rich production that seamlessly blends lush synths with evocative vocals, organic drum samples, and both electric and acoustic guitars. The result is a sonic tapestry that envelops listeners like a gentle breeze on a balmy summer night. Whether cruising down the coast with the wind in your hair or lounging on a sun-kissed beach with a refreshing drink in hand, Nikitaa's latest offering promises to transport audiences to a state of pure euphoria. "Delirious Summer" marks Nikitaa's fourth release of 2024, following “Elevator,” “Heaven,” and "Godless” which Rolling Stone included in their "Songs You Need To Know" roundup.

Nikitaa, an LA-based artist born and raised in India, infuses their music with ethereal Pop/R&B influences and their South Asian heritage, creating what they call Goddess Pop - music that emphasizes the fluidity of gender and emotional expression. As a genderfluid demisexual person, who predominantly uses they/them pronouns, Nikitaa is always emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the music industry. With almost 6 million YouTube views/Spotify streams combined, Nikitaa’s music has captured the attention of listeners instantly. Their third single “Majesty'' landed placement on NMF playlists across the world, and their singles through 2020 were released during lockdown with self-directed and produced videos that soared on Spotify and YouTube.

Throughout 2023, Nikitaa explored themes of vulnerability and strength in singles like “Scheming,” “On My Own,” “Peter Pan,” “Throne,” “Daddy Era,” and “Truman Show,” receiving recognition from Rolling Stone India, Radio One India, and Ones To Watch playlist Now Watching. Additionally, Nikitaa's keen ear and exceptional lyricism have led to brand placements with Splice’s Pride Month and South Asian Heritage Month campaigns.

Nikitaa’s work as a songwriter extends beyond their own projects, with credits on tracks for artists such as Trophy Boy (Nightmare, T.O.F.U, & Trophy Boy), Srushti Tawde (Breakfast Over Bae), RIKA (Grown Up), Aastha Gill, Munawar Faruqi, and Robica.

Looking ahead, 2024 promises to be a groundbreaking year for Nikitaa, with an EP on the horizon that is sure to captivate listeners. Inspired by artists like Beyonce for her knack for genre bending, fluidity in style and vocal prowess, and Jon Bellion for his overall songwriting; Nikitaa

continues to push boundaries, blending genres and incorporating Indian and Middle Eastern instrumentation into their music.

NIKITAA ON SOCIALS:

INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | WEBSITE | TWITTER | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK

The Intemperate Sons Release Music Video for Single "Falling Under"; New Album 'Dark Day’s Night' Due Out June 5th via FRAME|WORK

"Falling Under" is the latest track off the upcoming album, Dark Day’s Night that is set for release on June 5th, 2024. This album has taken a darker turn than the debut, reflecting the crazy times we live in today. Everyone has their own demons that no one else can see. The brightest souls burn the shortest wick before their candle fades away. This track was produced by Amir Derakh and The Intemperate Sons at The Kitchen Recording Studios in Dallas, TX.

The Intemperate Sons release all their music through the Frame|Work record label at the direction of Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck. A brand-new music video for the single will follow on 5/31/24 to the usual platforms. All Intemperate Sons’ tracks are mixed by Amir Derakh at Synthicide in Long Beach, CA. All mastering is done by Mike Marsh Mastering in the U.K.

Pre-order began on Monday March 18th where fans have the exclusive opportunity to secure a limited edition 12" vinyl LP, offered in various package configurations.

Pre-order Dark Day's Night HERE

Immerse yourself in the gritty sonic landscape of The Intemperate Sons' second album, Dark Day's Night. With tracks like the haunting title song, the introspective "Falling Under," and the reflective "Way Back When," this album weaves a compelling story of resilience amidst turmoil. "Unrealized" and "CØNTRØL8" delve into the battle for autonomy in a disordered world, while "Game of Keep Away" offers a raw take on the struggle of self-destruction and survival. The album also features a heavier, more intense cover of Nirvana's "Dumb," adding a unique layer to this already diverse album. Dark Day's Night is not just an album; it's a journey through the shadows, echoing with the sounds of defiance and liberation.

The Intemperate Sons emerged onto the rock scene in the summer of 2019 in Dallas, TX, to bring their distinct sound to the genre. A deep love for music brought family members Keith Watson (drums), Jake Watson (guitars) and Max Watson (vocals, guitars, keys) together along with close friend Mark Marks, who provides the groove on bass to unite everything together. The band's sound has been described as a 90's alternative style that is obsessed with the 70's.

Keith is well acquainted with entertaining massive crowds of concert goers and has played with many successful bands in Dallas, such as Gun Hill, Natural Born Thrillersand Agents of Solace, on top of opening for Lynch Mob, Joe Lynn Turner and Sponge. He is the primary lyricist for the band and has written the music for some of their most successful songs, including “Dust to Dust,” “The Color Within,” and “Unrealized.”

Multi-talented and gifted with the ability to play various instruments, Max is also the lead vocalist of the group. Along with being musically dexterous, he has also collaborated with Keith to write lyrics on the released songs “Going Crazy” and “Way Back When.” In the studio, Max usually surmounts expectations and goes above and beyond to prepare prior to a session with his own vocal harmonies.

Jake is the song architect of the Sons and extremely instrumental in the crafting of the music. His inventive ways of bringing lyrics to life in clever ways are unprecedented and fascinating to see in the studio setting. He is a prolific writer of music as well and is credited with helping create the songs “What’s Done is Done,” “Remission,” “Way Back When” and “Wading in the Gray.” Both Max and he play lead guitar on many of the songs as well. The other members of the band fondly refer to him as the “art director” since he enjoys taking charge in those areas for the group.

Prolific and unifying, Mark is an accomplished bass player and well known in Dallas. He was in the regionally successful band, Haggard, and had opened for Sebastian Bach of Skid Row. His input in song writing has been invaluable to the process of creating captivating melodies.

Despite the pandemic putting a pause on many major events, The Intemperate Sonslived up to their name and let nothing hold them back from making music. Constantly hard at work in the studio, they have collaborated with Amir Derakh (Julien-K, Dead by Sunrise, Orgy, Rough Cutt) and Ryan Shuck (Julien-K, Adema, Dead by Sunrise, Orgy). Both have lent their musical talents to various songs and ultimately have brought the Sons on to their label, Frame|Work. This led the band to also recently join the management roster at The Label Group. Ryan worked with Amir to produce the band’s upcoming track, “Game of Keep Away,” and has had a huge impact on the group. He’s been especially influential on Max’s vocal melodies and delivery. Amir also plays guitar on this latest ballad and has been mixing all of the band’s music as well as performing on multiple songs.

Another notable collaboration has been with Tony Franklin (The Firm, Roy Harper, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Whitesnake), primarily on the first album, The Color Within. He has been a valuable friend of the band and has played bass on some of their best tracks from that album, including “Running Man,” “Dust to Dust” and “The Color Within.”

The Intemperate Sons’ take on alternative rock is a dark and powerful concoction of hard rock mixed with folk and grunge concepts. The band has earned a serious reputation for writing and 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 at 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:

Fri June 14 @ Trees in Dallas, TX
Sat June 15 @ Verma Fest - 3 Nations Brewing in Carrollton, TX
Sat July 27 @ The Railhead Saloon in Lawton, OK
Sat Aug 3 @ Hanovers Draught Haus in Pflugerville, TX
Fri Sep 6 @ The Zone Grill & Bar in Abilene, TX
Sat Sep 7 @ Fitzgerald's Bar & Live Music Venue in San Antonio, TX
Sat Oct 26 @ Lonestar Bulldog Rescue Benefit in Denton, TX
Wed Nov 13 @ Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, CA

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

GRAIN OF PAIN Celebrates Album Release with "Beneath" Music Video; New Album Out Now on Noble Demon!

Finnish doom/death metal act GRAIN OF PAIN has released its debut full-length album The Moon Lights The Way through Noble Demon. In celebration of the album launch, GRAIN OF PAIN has just premiered a new music video for their latest single "Beneath".The band teamed up with Vesa Ranta, known for his work with renowned bands like Solstafir, Swallow the Sun, Amorphis, and Insomnium, as well as his role as drummer for Cemetery Skyline, The Abbey, and Sentenced.

Watch the video Below:

"The grim riff in the beginning of Beneath opens the album", mastermind Timo Solonen comments. "It begins the journey down to the abyss in which I seemed to be while making this song, it came quite naturally. Not that it’s hard for me to find the right mood while writing songs most of the time. Even the lyrics came easily without much hassle which is just inexplicable. Lars’ performance was so damn good and it was amazing to watch his work in the studio."

Led by Timo Solonen, the band's music is a potent fusion of dark, emotional melodies and powerful, guttural vocals. GRAIN OF PAIN's lineup features a stellar cast of musicians, with Timo Solonen at the helm, showcasing his skills not only as a composer but also contributing growls and guitars. Joining him are Juho Räihä on guitars, Lars Eikind on bass and clean vocals, Juuso Raatikainen on drums, and Sini Pajunenlending her captivating vocals to the mix. Taka Eliel adds backing growls to enrich the band’s gloomy sound.

GRAIN OF PAIN's sound is characterized by its intense emotional depth and draws inspiration from a variety of influences to create a unique blend of dark atmospheres and powerful melodies. The band's commitment to their craft has already attracted attention: Lars Eikind won the prestigious Spellemannsprisen in Norway and both Juho Räihäand Juuso Raatikainen were nominated for a Finnish Grammy with Swallow the Sun.

The Moon Lights The Way is now available digitally via Noble Demon.
Get the album at THIS LOCATION

Find GRAIN OF PAIN online:

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Find NOBLE DEMON online:

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Texas' 9-VOLT VELVET share 'Hurricane Brain', a sonic whirlwind showcasing their debut 'Nude Beaches' album

"A glam-bam-thankyou-ma’am wall of roiling guitar, bass, keyboards and drums. It’s a 70’s stack heeled tour de force dressed in space-age fabrics and driving a rocket propelled Ford Transit into space... this is a jet pack so strap it on and brace yourself for launch" ~ Joyzine

"Weaving influences and wielding layers of guitar, this is sonic temptation and a wall of sound  in an alluring envelope. With a sonic tapestry of post-punk urgency, shoegaze dreamscapes and subtly haunting vocals, this is a song that demands your attention"~ The Spill Magazine

"A Narnia-like doorway... the repetitious groove and cavernous guitars of the shoegaze world plus the fist-in-the-air, sing-along anthemics of the foot-on-the-monitor glam world.... gorgeous" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"An impressive, almost quirky edge... giving several punk bands a run for their money" ~ Real Gone

"Explosive arrangements that hold listeners’ attention... blends raw energy and catchy hooks. With powerful percussion and a gritty punk riff" ~ Skylight Webzine


Dallas-based indie dreamgaze outfit 9-Volt Velvet presents 'Hurricane Brain', the latest audio-visual offering in support of their debut album 'Nude Beaches'. Unleashing their pure raw talent, the band explodes with a lively and a captivating blend of fuzz, feedback and the driving energy of post-punk, alt rock and shoegaze rolled together. Here we have sonic temptation, pulsating rhythms and whispery yet hypnotizing vocals. 

Now available on CD via Brighton, UK label Shore Dive Records, this 13-track collection blends washed-out fuzzy and feedback-laden guitars, driving bass and pounding drum beats. The band has also self-released a limited edition of twenty 7" lathe-cut vinyl, featuring 'Riptide' as the A-side and 'Hey Candy' on the B-side.

Nestled in the fine territory between post-punk and shoegaze with a surf vibe, 9-Volt Velvet is made up of Mark Cross (lead vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion), Donnie Robertson (drums, percussion, keyboards) and Kevin Robinson (guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals).

Hailing from Muscle Shoals, AL and Dallas respectively, Mark and Donnie met through an ad in a local newspaper, hit it off instantly and formed a band, eventually being joined by Kevin soon after they began performing. Involving past members of of Viva Voce and The Northern Lights, they bring together several decades of experience playing shows with the likes of Starflyer 59, Spoon, The Dandy Warhols, Jimmy Eat World, Sunny Day Real Estate, Kill Hannah, Luxury, Lugsole, The Features, Bleach,  Fold Zandura, 764-HERO and Morella’s Forest.

'Nude Beaches' is the culmination of 9-Volt Velvet's musical journey, showcasing their evolution as artists and the unique sounds they have curated together. Inspired by their natural chemistry and a like-minded approach to music-making, in June 2023, they embarked on an intense 3-week studio session in Dallas, crafting an album that explores the themes of freedom and self-expression.

From the introspective lyrics to the intricate musical arrangements, every aspect of 'Nude Beaches' reflects the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and taking risks. This is a sonic journey that invites listeners to embrace their own individuality and revel in the joy of truly being themselves.

Influenced by The Cure, Sonic Youth, Swervedriver, The Jesus & Mary Chain, DIIV and The Velvet Underground, 9-Volt Velvet emerged as a recording artist in January 22 with their debut 'Cathedrals' EP, followed by the 'Mirrors' EP in July of that year.

The 'Nude Beaches' album is available via Shore Dive Records on CD and digitally, as well as Apple Music, Spotify. The 'Riptide / Hey, Candy' 7" vinyl edition is available exclusively from 9-Volt Velvet's Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Written and performed by 9-Volt Velvet
Mark Cross - lead vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, percussion
Donnie Robertson - drums, percussion, keyboards
Kevin Robinson - guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals
Recorded at Starlight Studios (Dallas) by Donnie Robertson & Jeff Ross
Produced, mixed & mastered by Donnie Robertson
CD released via Shore Dive Records
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with 9-Volt Velvet
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Keep up with Shore Dive Records 
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NEONFLY Announces Live EP and Presents Music Video for "Highways to Nowhere"!

UK alternative metal act NEONFLY has announced the release of the band's upcoming live EP Master Tapes - 10 Years Live at Masters of Rock, set to be released on June 19 via Noble Demon.

Having graced the festival for the 4th time in ten years back in 2022, this digital EP commemorates their decade-long journey since their first captivating performance on the international stage. Masters of Rock festival holds a special place in NEONFLY's hearts as it provided them with a crucial platform that kick-started the band's global presence. With each performance, NEONFLY has established a profound connection with their fans and the festival community, culminating in this special EP that commemorates their decade-long adventure at Masters Of Rock festival from humble beginnings to the here and now.

NEONFLY comments: "Our journey with Masters of Rock began in 2012 when we played to a packed second stage, winning the hearts and minds of everyone present. This led to us returning the following year and being promoted to an early afternoon slot on the Main Stage. Since then, the Czech fans, and especially those at Masters of Rock, have always held a special place in our hearts. Playing there feels like coming home, and we wanted to show our gratitude to all the fans who rocked out with us over the years, as well as to the fantastic team at Pragokoncert for their unwavering support."

Our first live recording dates back to our Main Stage debut in 2013, where we premiered the yet-to-be-released track "Heart of the Sun," later featured on our second album. The live version has been remixed and remastered for this release. In 2015, we returned for another epic Main Stage performance, proving that Neonfly was here to stay and a force to be reckoned with. That show also marked the debut of our visually captivating fire-breathing act, performed by guitarist Frederick Thunder, which has since then become a festival staple for us. Two tracks are taken from that show, "A Gift to Remember" and "Morning Star."

"'Although we performed at Metalfest 2017, also organized by Pragokoncert, it took seven years for us to return to Masters of Rock. Originally scheduled for 2020, the pandemic put our plans on hold until 2022, turning our return into a special moment, marking our 10-year 'MORversary.' "Highways to Nowhere" and "This World is Burning" are taken from that show, with their respective videos edited by Frederick Thunder."

Watch the music video for the first single "Highways to Nowhere", which the band performed at the Masters of Rock Festival 2022:

Guitarist Frederick Thunder about the track: "‘Highways to Nowhere’ has been a staple in our setlist since our second album ‘Strangers in Paradise’ came out. It’s really punchy and straight-forward, and it’s a great song to start the set with a bang and set the tone for the rest of the show. Even after all these years, the song only seems to have grown in popularity as evidenced by the number of people who request it and the way it’s positioned itself as one of our most popular songs on streaming platforms. It seemed like a great option as the starting track of our EP to celebrate what Neonfly is all about live."

- Original photograph by Veronika Hesounová -

Revisiting unforgettable moments from their triumphant return in 2022 after a seven-year hiatus, NEONFLY offers a vibrant snapshot of their spirited performances with anthems like "Highways to Nowhere" and "This World is Burning," capturing the essence of their 10-year "MORversary." With their seamless blend of raw energy, intricate melodies, and captivating visuals, NEONFLY's live recordings transcend mere music, embodying a celebration of unity, resilience, and passion shared with fans worldwide.

Master Tapes - 10 Years Live at Masters of Rock will be coming out digitally on June 19 via Noble Demon. The EP is available for pre-save at THIS LOCATION.

Neonfly are:

Willy Norton - Vocals

Frederick Thunder - Guitars

Paul Miller - Bass

Declan Brown - Drums

Find Neonfly online:

Official Website

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Find NOBLE DEMON online:

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