Texas Hippie Coalition Release "Gunsmoke," Title Track From New Album

Texas rockers TEXAS HIPPIE COALITION are set to release their new album, Gunsmoke, via MNRK Heavy on October 4, 2024.  This time, Big Dad Ritch and his crew wholeheartedly embrace their country and Southern rock stylings as well as a lifelong passion for westerns. This comes through loud and clear on the first single and title track, "Gunsmoke." Rustic acoustic guitar crawls through a stomping beat punctuated by waves of groaning distortion. It climaxes on a chantable chorus, “I sell weed and liquor to the city slickers. I can get you there quicker, and like a gun…I smoke.”

With drinks poured, fists raised, and smiles wide, TEXAS HIPPIE COALITION (THC) always know how to have a good time. A collective of tried-and-true rabble-rousers and dyed-in-the-wool storytellers, the Texas quintet—Big Dad Ritch [vocals], Cord Pool [guitar], Nevada Romo [guitar], Rado Romo [bass], and Joey Mandigo [drums]—spike ass-whopping hard rock with a kick of country swagger and a whole lot of Texas grit and gusto.
 
Gathering tens of millions of streams, logging thousands of miles on the road, and energizing countless fans, they deliver ten anthems tailormade to simmer and scorch on Gunsmoke [MNRK Heavy]. “In terms of the lyrics, the vibe, and where THC come from, we definitely went home on this album,” says Ritch. “It represents the wild west Texas-Oklahoma area. You’ve got a little red dirt country spilling over into the storytelling and metal. It’s a return to the dirt where we came from.”

Tour Dates:
August 17 - Post Falls, ID - Cruiser's
September 13 - Keokuk, IA - L-Treyns Bar
September 14 - Harshaw, WI - Bonnie & Clyde Gangster Park
September 15 - Joliet, IL - The Forge
September 20 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverfront Live
September 21- Wilmington, OH - Farm to Bottle Festival
October 10 - Mechanicsburg, PA - Lovedraft's Brewing Company
October 11 - Frenchtown, NJ - Atie's Bar & Grill
October 12 - Laconia, NJ - The Big House
October 13 - Rochester, NY - Montage Music Hall
October 17 - Pittsburgh, PA - Crafthouse Stage & Grill
October 18 - Marietta, OH - Adelphia Music Hall
October 19 - Flint, MI - The Machine Shop
October 20 - Lakewood, OH - The Winchester

Connect with Texas Hippie Coalition:

Website
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok

NIGHTWISH - Release New Song + Music Video 'The Day Of...'

Following the album announcement of NIGHTWISH's tenth studio album Yesterwynde, the Finnish symphonic metal legends share another teaser with their fans:
'The Day Of...' is another breathtaking output from the band, showcasing a wide range of the band's vast skillset.

Tuomas Holopainen states about 'The Day Of...':
"'The Day Of...' delivers a message of hope and deliverance from the deluge of fear and misery we are subjected to on a daily basis.
And even though it`s a long road to a dreamworld, there are no monsters under the bed; as the children in the song joyously remind us."

Stream the single here:
https://nightwish.bfan.link/thedayof

'The Day Of...' comes with a beautiful music video that can be watched below.

'The Day Of...' is the second single of NIGHTWISH's upcoming new studio album Yesterwynde which will see the light of the day on September 20th.
Order the album here:
https://nightwish.bfan.link/yesterwynde.a01

About NIGHTWISH
Working with NUCLEAR BLAST since the release of their highly lauded 2004 album Once, NIGHTWISH have gained international fame and success selling more than ten million records and receiving more than 60 gold and platinum awards, having released six No #1 albums and thirteen No #1 singles. In October 2018, NIGHTWISH was inducted into the Tähtikatu – Walk of Fame Finland, becoming the honorary gallery's eleventh member. 2020 saw the release of the band's last studio record, Human. :II: Nature. that crowned the band's discography with another No. #1 success in Finland and Germany as well as several other impressive chart entries worldwide. 


Line-Up:
Floor Jansen | Vocals
Tuomas Holopainen | Keys
Emppu Vuorinen | Guitars
Jukka Koskinen | Basses
Troy Donockley | Uilleann Pipes, Low Whistles, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Bouzouki, Bodhrán, Aerophone, Vocals
Kai Hahto | Drums & Percussion

DEFEATED SANITY Announce New Album

"One of the most extreme things I've ever heard" - Decibel
"When Defeated Sanity release a new album, it's always cause for attention" -Metal Injection

"Defeated Sanity have captured the throne of brutal death metal..." - Angry Metal Guy

"A jazz ensemble hiding in plain sight as a brutal tech-death band" - No Clean Singing

"While the rest of us smooth-brained mortals are content with playing checkers or Connect Four, these guys are playing six simultaneous games of 3D chess with their swollen, pulsating minds" - Metal Sucks

"Should be up for some sort of award for being one of this offshoot's most steadily morphing bands" - Last Rites

"Defeated Sanity's brutality comes almost entirely from their demandingly intricate songwriting" - Toilet Over Hell

"Defeated Sanity has crafted a sound that is wholly their own" - Heaviest of Art

Defeated Sanity have pushed the boundaries of extreme metal for 30 odd years. The band execute jazz-infused chaos with mind-bending precision, while also slamming together so many memorable breakdowns that they cracked the Billboard charts. Their upcoming seventh album still hits from every odd angle, but on Chronicles of Lunacy, these technical maniacs return to sheer brutality.  

“The last few DS albums leaned heavily on the proggier side of our sound”, says the band's drummer and founding member Lille Gruber. “We still like to experiment, but on our new album, we wanted to get back to the raw slamming that our fans love about Psalms of the Moribund or Chapters of Repugnance”. 

Watch the foul video for lead single “The Odour of Sanctity”  Below.

Chronicles of Lunacy comes out November 22 on Season of Mist. 

Pre-order & Pre-save 

https://orcd.co/defeatedsanitythecroniclesoflunacy

Just like the rivers of hell, "The Odour of Sanctity" comes pouring out the speakers in a never-ending stream of filth. Guttural vocals spew through a churning mix of chunky riffs, hiccuping drum fills and a cavernous low-end. "We wanted to keep some of the fidelity that's associated with modern death metal", the band says, "but Chronicleshas more of the raw production style that stood out on Psalms and Chapters". 

To dig back into the brutal mindset that long-time fans have come to crave, in January 2024, Defeated Sanity returned to Thousand Cave Studios. The underground New York City hotspot was also the excavation site for The Sanguinary Impetus, which dumped a fresh layer of dirt on the more "polished" production of Passages Into Deformity. Except this time around, the band encouraged producer Colin Marston to really get his hands dirty.

"The Odour of Sanctity" stinks to high heaven. New guitarist Vaughn Stoffey shreds with such gross speed that even the old school heads will be spinning around like The Exorcist. Of course, the ungodly pace is still set by the whip of Lille Gruber. He opens the song as if puncturing a wound, hammering out blast beats that are as merciless as the nails of the cross.  

"Lille's drumming is just ridiculous", says Jacob Schmidt, whose belching bass lines give "Odour" a oddball bounce. "He's the face of the DS franchise. So even though Chronicles is more slamming and straightforward, the weird, hyper-technical experiments still found a way into the mix".

Plenty of knuckle-dragging awaits within its stomach-turning twists, but Chronicles of Lunacy isn't Defeated Sanity for dummies. Heck, the album's concept is wrapped up in the many malicious ways that delusional thinking can rot the human psyche. "Each song deals with a different strain of mental corruption", says Josh Welshman. "Odour" stinks of religious fanaticism. After a brutal showing on Sanguinary, Welshman returns with a vengeance. "A miracle defiled / Fraudulently wrought", he summons with a demonic growl as the band open up the pit with a brutal breakdown. 

"In true DS fashion, 'Odour' showcases the full range of our sound", the band says. "It's freaky but also unrelentingly brutal, which represents the crossroad that we ended up at on Chronicles of Lunacy. Even though the album can get pretty fucking weird, there's still a emphasis on straight-up slamming". 

The video for "The Odour of Sanctity" was created by Obscenery Films. 

None of their albums are ever going to follow a straight line, but on Chronicles of Lunacy, Defeated Sanity return to sheer brutality.  


Lineup
Josh Welshman - Vocals
Vaughn Stoffey - Guitars
Jacob Schmidt - Bass
Lille Gruber - Drums

Guest musicians
Danny Nelson and Paolo Paguntalan provide backup vocals on "Amputationsdrang" and "Accelerating the Rot"

Recording Studio
Thousand Caves Studio in January 2024.

Production
Recorded, mixed and mastered by Colin Marston.
Produced by Colin Marston and Defeated Sanity.

Cover Art
Artwork by Jon Zig
Title lettering by Liz Schmidt
Layout by Alex Eckman-Lawn

Pre-order & Stream
https://orcd.co/defeatedsanitythecroniclesoflunacy


Follow Defeated Sanity
https://defeatedsanity.bandcamp.com
https://www.facebook.com/DefeatedSanity
https://www.instagram.com/defeated_sanity_official 

ALBORN, Releases Official Music Video for Single "A Little Less Than Expected (Show Me)"

Alternative metal band, ALBORN, released a brand new single titled "A Little Less Than Expected (Show Me)" to all digital outlets via One RPM. The band released the official music video for the single today, August 13, 2024.

WATCH "A Little Less Than Expected (Show Me)" Below.

ALBORN is a hard hitting yet melodic alternative metal band based in Northern Illinois. Their resume includes sharing the stage with Shinedown, All That Remains, Sevendust, Nonpoint, Badflower, Powerman 5000, Buckcherry, Adelitas Way, Gemini Syndrome, Plush and others. ALBORN is known for bringing a tight, high energy performance. Every. Single. Show.

ALBORN released their debut EP, Impairative in 2020. Follow up singles “Full Circle”, “Cause to Create” and “Hindsight” took them through 2021 and had initial success including Spotify's “Rock Hard” playlist, SiriusXM Octane, Music Choice as well as terrestrial radio rotation.

To round out 2022, the band did more writing and flew to Las Vegas to work with Chris Collier and James “Fluff” Harley. This dynamic production duo was fresh off working with Korn on their Requiem album. There, ALBORN recorded 3 songs, "Push", "Learn to Live" and "Even Numbers". A 4th song, 'Ten Times" was then added to form the EP, Push, which the band put out through Pavement Entertainment (Sony / The Orchard)in early 2023.

In March 2023, ALBORN hit the road for 18 days providing direct support to Powerman 5000 while ALBORN’s new single, “Push” started at radio. The single was a big hit, even charting on Billboard's Top 40 for Mainstream Rock.

In 2024, to follow up their incredible success, ALBORN again went to Las Vegas to join Collier and Harley. This time the team recorded 4 songs the band feels is the best brand of ALBORN yet. The first of these, “A Little Less Than Expected (Show Me)” releases 8/9/24. To support this, the band is continuing to rock the Midwest including Rockfest in Cadott, WI and providing direct support to All That Remains in East Moline, IL.

Upcoming Shows:

Aug 20 with Hed PE, Smile Empty Soul, Simon Says, ALBORN in Joliet, IL
Aug 28 with Disturbed, Plush, Alborn in Dubuque, IA
Aug 31 @ I-Rock 5 Year Anniversary Party with All That Remains, ALBORN & Shallow Side! in East Moline, IL
Sep 12 @ X-Ray Arcade in Cudahy, WI
Sep 28 @ Rock The Equinox in Stigler Oklahoma 2024 in Stigler, OK

ALBORN is:
Justin Taylor: Lead Vocals & Guitar
Nate Guske: Guitar & Vocals
Alex Raser: Drums & Screams
Zame Lewis: Bass

For More Information Please Visit:

Official Website

Facebook

YouTube

Instagram

X

Singer/Songwriter Angie K Signs with Wasserman for Worldwide Representation

Wasserman Music has signed 2024 CMT Listen Up Artist Angie K to its talent roster. She will be represented by Wasserman's Nate Ritches for worldwide representation.

"I’m absolutely pumped, it’s gonna be a hell of a year! Wasserman has always felt like so much more than an agency," shared Angie K. "They understand that we build communities and create safe spaces for our fans to come together and have a great time. It’s more than booking shows, it’s being intentional with where we go, who we serve and putting the fans first while having a blast doing it. There is no where I’d rather be and no one we would rather start this next chapter with than Nate Ritches and the team at Wasserman. See y’all on the road!"

“Angie’s diverse talent with broad appeal and potential excite us to see where her career will lead.  We are honored and excited to be along for the ride and thankful JR asked us if we wanted a seat at the Angie K table,” shared Ritches.

Angie K is represented by JR Schumann for management, Huskins-Harris for business management and Essential Broadcast Media for public relations.  

Ritches continues, “Just as important as Angie’s artistry, she’s got a great team surrounding her vision and direction that only strengthened our decision to be in business together.”

The queer country artist first made her mark on Music City with a nod to her Latin roots when her first single, the bilingual “Real Talk,” catapulted her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The powerhouse vocalist just released a new track "Death of Me." It follows her recent release, “Red Dirt on Mars," which left Billboard praising her "disarming vulnerability."  Listen to “Red Dirt on Mars” HERE and listen to "Death of Me" Below . 

Produced by acclaimed writer/producer and BMI Songwriter of the Year, Stephony Smith and co-written by Angie K, she explained the influence Smith had on her when it came to releasing "Death of Me" in a recent "Holler Nashville Session"sharing,"It's a very vulnerable song, and I almost didn't put in on the record, but I'm glad I did - just because of the stories I've heard of people relating to it."

The 2023 CMT Next Women of Country artist has been in the studio working on her new music with Smith, who penned the smash hit “It’s Your Love” for Tim McGraw/Faith Hill and has received cuts from some of music’s biggest stars including The Chicks, Shania Twain, Barbara Streisand, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Reba McEntire and more. 

With CMT calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch,"  this year is certainly shaping up to be a break out year for Angie K. Born in El Salvador and raised in Georgia, her love for country music was nurtured from a young age. Her mother’s dedication, saving up to take her to the Grand Ole Opry, has come full circle as she prepares to make her Grand Ole Opry debut this Friday, August 16, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Tickets for her debut are available now at Opry.com. 

Stay tuned for more new music throughout the year. For the latest news and tour dates, visit officialangiek.com and follow @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

 
About Angie K
A member of CMT’s 2023 Next Women of Country class, Angie K was named earlier this year to CMT’s 2024 LISTEN UP Class. With a nod to Angie K’s Latin roots, her first bilingual single “Real Talk” catapulted her onto the country scene as a “Highway Find” on SiriusXM’s The Highway.  And as an out and independent artist she has accumulated over 20 million+ streams, 500k+ followers and even played on the Nissan Stadium stage during the 2022 CMA Fest. Angie has also shared the stage with Tanya Tucker, Trace Adkins, Melissa Etheridge and more.
 
With CMT calling her an “up-and-coming female artist to watch"  this year, 2024 is certainly shaping up to be a break out year for Angie K. She is set to make her Grand Ole Opry debut on August 16, and recently took the main stage  at Nashville Pride and the Reverb Stage at CMA Fest this year. Stay tuned for more new music from Angie K all year. For upcoming tour dates and more information, visit officialangiek.com/ and follow along @officialangiek on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. 

Pictured L to R: Huskins-Harris Business Management’s John Huelsman & Becky Harris, Manager JR Schumann, Angie K, and  Wasserman’s Nate Ritches, Audrey Edgley & Mike Betterton

HEILUNG Share Full Red Rocks Performance on YouTube

Lifa Iotungard now available on CD and vinyl

"I've never heard anything like it before" - The Guardian
"A bona fide phenomenon" - Metal Hammer

"There are other bands in the subgenre of folk metal that draw on pre-Christian history...but Heilung stands out for the depth of its historical engagement and the scale of its live performances" - The New York Times

"Absolutely bewitching... a deeply transformative spiritual experience" - Sonic Perspectives

"Utterly unique" - The Arts STL

"Truly one-of-a-kind...a beautiful display of artistic expression" - Melodic Mag

"A mind-bending experience that is surely not to be forgotten" - New Noise

"More than just a show - it was an experience that resonated triumphantly as a moment of collective joy in celebration of the simple act of being alive" - No Clean Singing

"In a world where bands get compartmentalized into easily-digestable categories, Heilung goes against the grain" - Creative Loafing.

HEILUNG are known around the world for transcending the boundaries of music. They don't play shows but perform a ritual, fusing together earth, fire and incense with throat singing, primordial rhythms, subtle electronic textures, a mesmerizing light show and instruments made from human bone.

Today, Christopher Juul, Maria Franz, Kai Uwe Faust and their Nordic collective are sharing Heilung's most sacred ritual yet. Lifa Iotungardwas recorded at Red Rocks Amphitheater in October 2021 during Heilung's first sold-out performance at the renowned venue. This special performance is now available today for the very first time on CD and vinyl through Season of Mist.

ᛁ - Order LIFA Iotungard on CD and vinyl.

https://orcd.co/lifaiotungard  

Watch the full footage of Lifa Iotungard on Heilung's YouTube channel. Feel the torches blaze and the drums echo between the sand stones, carving a sacred space for the hearts of the present to connect with the spirits of the past.  

ᛚ - Watch LIFA Iotungard Below:
 


ᚠ -  Stream:

https://orcd.co/lifaiotungard

ᚨ - Order Heilung Merch:

https://heilung.travelling-merchant.com/

Remember that we all are brothers. All people, beasts, trees, and stones, and wind. We all descend from the one great being.

Already this year, Heilung have performed their ritual at Glastonbury, Download and Roskilde Festival, as well as in front of another sold-out crowd at Red Rocks.

This fall, the Nordic collective will embark on a tour of Europe before closing out 2024 in Australia and New Zealand with their label mate Eivør. More dates at European arenas will follow in 2025.  

Get tickets: https://www.amplifiedhistorytour.com/

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

Presskit: https://presskit.season-of-mist.com/Heilung
Username: presskit
Password: Presskitofmist


Available Formats:
Digital Download
2x12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Gold & Orange Mixed
2x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear & Black Marbled

Pop Evil release new single

Modern rock powerhouse POP EVIL return with the new single "What Remains."

It's the dawn of a new era for Pop Evil, which the band promises will be its most sonically heavy.

You've been warned, because the track, with its thunderous riffs and rhythmic thrust, fulfills that promise.

Watch the lyric video for the song, which was produced by Wage War's Cody Quistad , Below.

"Over the years, I've been faced with torment; departures, failures, and uphill climbs," says singer Leigh Kakaty. "It takes a reckoning to strip us to our core and confront our true selves. What endures beyond these trials is who you are, your essence. That is what remains. On our upcoming album, we have dared ourselves to make the most lyrically raw and sonically heavy album of our career. 'What Remains' sets the tone of what is to come."

Kakaty continues, "We are also proud to officially announce the newest member of the Pop Evil lineup — Blake Allison." Allison is replacing departed member Hayley Cramer on drums, joining Kakaty and fellow bandmates, guitarists Dave Grahs and Nick Fuelling, and bassist Joey "Chicago" Walser.

Pop Evil - Skeletons Spotify Fans First Cassette

SHIPPING NOW

SELL ALL POP EVIL MUSIC & MERCH HERE

Jenna Paulette Releases “Run The Damn Ball” off Upcoming Album ‘Horseback’

Leo33 recording artist Jenna Paulette releases her fall-time anthem, “Run The Damn Ball,” today in anticipation of her sophomore album, Horseback, available Sept. 6. Listen Below.
 
“I am of the firm belief that the word of God, family, livestock, small towns, slow cooking and team sports are some of the things that teach you the most about life and yourself,” Paulette shares. “They create good character and accountability. This song is about doing the simple things every day… not worrying about making it fancy or getting credit. Keep your head down, do what’s necessary, and let it all add up to a big win in life. Go tell someone to pass the aux cable and the green beans—crank this song and run the damn ball.”
 
Written by Rodney Clawson, Casey Beathard and Hunter Phelps, “Run The Damn Ball” harkens back to the values of grit and hard work that Paulette carries with her throughout her north Texas ranching lifestyle.

“Run The Damn Ball” is the latest preview of Paulette’s upcoming sophomore album Horseback, arriving Sept. 6 via Leo33. A culmination of all aspects of her life that have shaped her, including heartbreak and newfound love, Horseback further expands on her debut album The Girl I Was.
 
In an interview with Cowboys & Indians in June, Paulette shared, “​​This record is a cumulation of perspectives I have from the moments and people that made me: rural, cowboy, America, my biggest heartaches leading to my healing, the men and women I’m so proud to come from and represent.”
 
Paulette is currently on the road with Aaron Watson as part of The Armadillo Dance Hall Tour and will support select dates of the CMT Next Women of Country Tour with Kimberly Perry this month. For more information on new music and upcoming shows, visit jennapaulette.com or follow @JennaPaulette on all social platforms.

MADELINE MERLO RELEASES MELODIC DUET “BROKEN HEART THING” WITH MULTI-PLATINUM, 9X #1 HITMAKER DUSTIN LYNCH

Madeline Merlo, a 2x CCMA award winner and 2024 CCMA Female Artist of the Year nominee, teams up with MULTI-PLATINUM, 9x #1 hitmaker Dustin Lynch for her new release “Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch).” The song, the first peek into her forthcoming project ONE HOUSE DOWN (from the girl next door), explores both sides of a recent heartbreak & how they’re both still getting used to the relationship falling apart.  The melancholy melody serves up a storyline that perfectly complements the vulnerable moments captured on this recording. Listen here.

 

“I’m overjoyed to finally share 'Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch)’ with the world today,” said Merlo. “A huge thank you to Dustin Lynch for lending his signature vocal to this song, one that delves into the complexities of navigating life right after a broken heart. It’s a relatable journey that I’m hoping people can find some sense of not being alone in that feeling when they hear this song.”

 

Merlo’s forthcoming project embodies a narrative of authenticity, vulnerability & imperfection. In “Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch),” you feel as if you are living the story yourself, desperately attempting to picture a new normal. The song is more than just a new track, it is a profound exploration of the aftermath of a breakup. The song delves into the dual perspectives of a relationship’s end, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of the emotional turbulence that accompanies heartbreak. The narrative is built around the universal experience of moving on from a once-promising relationship, and the poignant melancholy of adjusting to new realities. Directed by Jack Owens, the official music video for the track also launched today, view below. 

Madeline Merlo’s emotive vocals guide the listener through a tender examination of both sides of a breakup, exploring themes of loss, acceptance, and the lingering echoes of love. With Lynch’s rich, identifiable, evocative voice joining Merlo’s on the track, “Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch)” becomes a duet that bridges two perspectives, creating a powerful and resonant piece of music.

“I’ve gotten a chance to invite Madeline out a few times now to perform with me, so I was honored to be asked to jump on this song with her,” shared Lynch. “I love how our voices blend on this track, and the power in her vulnerability. It’s so relatable and I’m looking forward to seeing how this one connects!”

Having “already proven her songwriting chops” (Billboard), Merlo, a 2024 CMT “Next Women of Country,” has “long made a career by telling big emotional stories in the span of 3 minute or so songs” (American Songwriter). Similar to her critically acclaimed label-debut EP, Slide, that scored her praise from Billboard, E! News, PopCulture, Music Row and more, Merlo continues to build her niche as a songwriter and artist, as she brings to life powerful female stories, from budding romances, to growing up and to the lessons learned in-between. “…Ready to make her name and talent known in the American country music landscape” (Country Swag), the “rising country star” (People) has a new project “Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch)” out now, available on all streaming platforms.

 

Expanding her creative horizons, Madeline Merlo has recently collabed with Sunday Club, releasing anexclusive 8-piece jewelry collection perfectly capturing her unique style. In addition, Merlo is the face of the Urban Planet x Boots & Hearts Collab, don’t miss out — shop the collection here while supplies last. 

About Madeline Merlo:
With a crystalline Country vocal and an international rep for writing vivid scenes of emotional insight, BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville recording artist Madeline Merlo is a rising star with an old soul and a new school style. Already a Platinum-certified No. 1 songwriter poised to be a breakout artist, Merlo’s new project ONE HOUSE DOWN (from the girl next door) finds a self-described deep-feeler offering a message of encouragement to her younger self – and to all those who feel “a little different.” A small town native helming from the blueberry fields of British Columbia, Merlo recalls countless holiday family sing-alongs soaked in a musical mix of classic soul and R&B – plus ‘90s country and the powerhouse vocals of everyone from Aretha Franklin to Dolly Parton, Martina McBride and Faith Hill. After attending a Shania Twain concert as her first show, she proclaimed her intention to be a singer on a second-grade school project – and her songwriting habit began early, too. Merlo started visiting Nashville on songwriting trips at just 16, signed a record deal at 18, and found fast success at Canadian country radio, earning the CCMA Rising Star award in 2015. By 2020 she was competing on Season 2 of NBC songwriting reality series Songland – and with the dressed-down anthem of easy confidence, “Champagne Night,” she came out a winner. The track went on to become a Platinum-certified three-week No. 1 for Lady A, opening the door for Merlo’s artistic dreams. The sassy country/funk and soul single “It Didn’t” has racked up more than 10 million Spotify streams to date, and Merlo followed with the gravel-road pop of her Slide EP in 2022. Now, after being named to CMT Next Women of Country class of 2024, she calls ONE HOUSE DOWN  (from the girl next door)  her most emotionally insightful project yet – a six-song message of self-worth that comes with a superstar boost and plays to her creative strength. The first peek into her forthcoming project arrives August 9th with the melodic “Broken Heart Thing (feat. Dustin Lynch),” and the full project will be available October 11th. Merlo can be found on the road throughout the U.S. and Canada this summer. For more information, visit her website.

About Dustin Lynch:
Dustin Lynch has "built one of the most consistent recording careers in modern country music” (Billboard), achieving nine #1s; four Top 5 albums; 10 GOLD, PLATINUM, and MULTI-PLATINUM certified singles; and tallying over 4.4 BILLION cumulative global streams. His Top 10-and-climbing single “Chevrolet (feat. Jelly Roll),” from sixth studio album Killed The Cowboy (Broken Bow Records), is currently making a statement. The follow-up to Blue In The Sky, which delivered the history-making 2X PLATINUM, six-week #1 “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” – the most-played song at Country radio in 2022 landing at #1 on the Mediabase and #2 on the Billboard Year-End Country Airplay charts – also featured hit singles: #1 “Stars Like Confetti” and “Party Mode.” Lynch has headlined packed venues to sold-out crowds like his latest KILLED THE COWBOY TOUR, in addition to touring with Country’s biggest names including Kane Brown, Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Brad Paisley, and Blake Shelton. Since his PLATINUM breakout “Cowboys and Angels” in 2012, the Tennessee native has earned industry recognition as a Grand Ole Opry member, as well as high-profile nominations for the Academy of Country Music Awards, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, and CMT Music Awards.


KEEP UP WITH MADELINE MERLO

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

Randy Houser and Riley Green Join Forces on "Rub A Little Dirt On It"

As he gears up for the kickoff to his co-headlining Country Round Here Tonight Tour with Justin Moore next month, multi-Platinum artist Randy Houser is joined by Riley Green for “Rub A Little Dirt On It,” an anthem of resilience and finding solace in the simple pleasures of life and a fan-favorite track from his album Note To Self. Listen to “Rub A Little Dirt On It” featuring Riley Green Below.
 
“I thought Riley’s voice would be perfect for ‘Rub A Little Dirt On It,’” shares Houser. “He has a down-to-earth quality that really matches the spirit of this song.”
 
Written by Houser with Jeff Hyde and Ryann Tyndell, “Rub A Little Dirt On It” reflects on the wisdom and strength gained from overcoming challenges and the healing power of the outdoors while acting as a reminder that difficult times are only temporary, sometimes alleviated by turning to places of beauty and tranquility:

Today’s release follows Houser’s latest single “Country Back,” a full throttle proclamation of all things country, with over 100 stations playing the song as it climbs the charts at Country radio. Listen to “Country Back” HERE.
 
Houser and Moore will embark on their co-headlining Country Round Here Tonight Tour on Sept. 5 in Charlotte, NC, with 12 shows across the South, Northeast and Midwest through October, including stops in Asbury Park, N.J., Philadelphia, Pa., Houston, Texas and Indianapolis, Ind.
 
Houser is also set to join HARDY for two dates at Red Rocks Amphitheatre for the QUIT!! Tour Oct. 20 and Oct. 21.
 
For tour dates and more information, visit RandyHouser.com or follow along on Instagram @RandyHouser, Facebook.com/RandyHouser and Twitter/X @RandyHouser.
 
Randy Houser Tour Dates:
Aug. 14 | Berrin County Youth Fair | Berrien Springs, MI
Aug. 17 | Chase County Fair & Expo | Imperial, NE
Aug. 23 | YQM Country Fest | Dieppe, NB
Aug. 31 | William A. Floyd Amphitheater | Anderson, SC
Oct. 20 | Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Morrison, CO*
Oct. 21 | Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Morrison, CO*
 
*HARDY QUIT!! Tour
 
Country Round Here Tonight Tour Dates:
Sept. 5 | Skyla Credit Union Amp | Charlotte, NC
Sept. 6 | Red Hat Amphitheater | Raleigh, NC
Sept. 7 | Macon Centreplex Coliseum | Macon, GA
Sept. 26 | Toyota Oakdale Theatre | Wallingford, CT
Sept. 27 | The Stone Pony | Asbury Park, NJ
Sept. 28 | TD Pavilion | Philadelphia, PA
Oct. 3 | Walmart AMP | Rogers, AR
Oct. 5 | 713 Music Hall | Houston, TX
Oct. 6 | Toyota Music Factory | Irving, TX
Oct. 10 | Toledo Zoo Amphitheater | Toledo, OH
Oct. 11 | Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park | Indianapolis, IN
Oct. 12 | Hollywood Casino Amphitheater | Maryland Heights, MO

About Randy Houser
With an inimitable voice The New York Times describes as “wholly different, thicker and more throbbing, a caldron bubbling over,” Randy Houser racked up three consecutive No. 1 hits and more than four million in singles sales to date with his Stoney Creek Records album How Country Feels. He topped the charts with the title track, “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” and “Goodnight Kiss” (also his first No. 1 as a songwriter) and earned critical acclaim for his powerful delivery of the Top 5 smash and CMA Song of the Year-nominated “Like A Cowboy.” Houser added a fourth No. 1 to his catalogue with “We Went” from his 2016 album, Fired Up. Houser’s sixth studio album Note To Self is available now via Magnolia Music Group and features 10 tracks all co-written by the Mississippi native. Lead single and title track “Note To Self” marked his “powerful return” following 2019’s critically-acclaimed album Magnolia, with MusicRow boasting the Mississippi native “remains one of country music’s very finest vocalists.” His latest single “Country Back” is available now. For more information, visit RandyHouser.com.
 
About Riley Green
Riley Green has been compelling Country music fans to raise a drink, shed a tear, and, above all, celebrate where they are from, since his self-titled EP in 2018 debuted with Big Machine Label Group. His songs like the No. 1 PLATINUM hit “There Was This Girl,” the 2X-PLATINUM-certified heart-tugger “I Wish Grandpas Never Died,” and his chart-topping collab with Thomas Rhett, “Half of Me,” have made the Academy of Country Music’s 2020 New Male Artist of the Year synonymous with what Country music does best: making listeners feel something with his no-gimmick, relatable writing and classic feel.
 
A huge 2023 for the avid sports fan, former athlete (Jacksonville State University quarterback) and outdoorsman, Green secured his third No. 1 single “Different ‘Round Here (Ft. Luke Combs),” played to an average of 65,000 fans each night as direct support on massive tours for Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen and released his latest full-length studio album Ain’t My Last Rodeo. The Dann Huff-produced album features his current Top 25-and-climbing single “Damn Good Day To Leave,” and gave a deeper look into the life of good ol’ boy who still lives in his hometown of Jacksonville, AL.
 
Currently riding a wave of massive success that grows stronger each day, 2024 has been a rocket for Green. He released his Way Out Here EP, which included two solo writes that had critics and fans alike gushing (the poignant “Jesus Saves” and the sultry “Worst Way,” which sparked a frenzy on the internet), the humorous tune “Rather Be,” as well as the wildly viral “you look like you love me” with Ella Langley, which has also taken social media by storm. He played for the biggest Country crowd in UK history (on his first trip across the pond no less), headlined his own (largely sold out) amphitheater tour, hosted his own festival, became one of only three Country artists to grace the cover of Cigar & Spirits and has become one of the most buzzed-about artists in Nashville. With another project on its way this fall, it’s clear, “there’s no slowing down for Riley Green” (Pollstar).  See tour dates and learn more at RileyGreenMusic.com.

Ian Munsick’s “Caroline” Out Now + Surprise-Drops “Good Dogs & Sad Songs”

Ahead of the release of his sophomore album White Buffalo last year, Wyoming native Ian Munsick shared with Music Row the inspiration his wife and son have had on his songwriting, stating “Caroline and Crawford are in all of these songs. It’s just more blatant in some than others.” With “More Than Me” tipping its hat to Caroline’s faith, and songs “Dig” and “Ranch Hand” serving as a testament to their love story, Munsick now interweaves these influences for his most direct tribute yet.
 
“Talk about pressure… naming a song after your wife is as high stakes as it gets as a songwriter. Releasing that song is about as high stakes as it gets as a husband,” Munsick shares with a laugh. “Luckily, it’s one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written and even more importantly, it’s one of my wife’s. Every line is the truth and is seven years in the making. I took my time on it because God took His time on Caroline.” 
 
“Caroline” is available everywhere now, listen HERE. Named after his wife, “Caroline” was written by Munsick alongside Jeremy Spillman and Phil O’Donnell.
 
In addition to the release of “Caroline,” Munsick surprise-dropped “Good Dogs & Sad Songs” as he continues to play more-and-more new live music on the road. 

“Earlier this year, I sat down to write with the brilliant minds that helped create ‘Leather,’ my first cut as a songwriter (thanks CoJo). I had been looking forward to cooking up another one with this combo for a while,” Munsick reflects on the writing process with co-writers Jeremy Spillman and Rivers Rutherford. “Problem was, I had no song ideas this time. We were about an hour into the session and we had some great lines/melodies but still no title to write towards. Finally, my favorite line was cast out into the room: ‘dry wood that splits good and burns all night long.’ From then on, the song wrote itself.
 
“That day was a funny reminder of how the simple things in life are often the most meaningful and inspiring,” he adds. “No matter how much we complicate our lives, the things that God made will always bring clarity and a sense of peace. Just like good dogs and sad songs.” 
 
This Fall, Munsick will return to the Rocky Mountain region with his Country & WESTern Tour presented by Boot Barn, with nine shows throughout the west. Munsick is currently headlining his Boots, Buckles & Bolos Tour, and can be seen on select dates of Lainey Wilson’s Country’s Cool Again Tour this summer.
 
For his full tour schedule and to follow along with updates, visit IanMunsick.com or follow @IanMunsick across social media.

HAMMERFALL - new album 'Avenge The Fallen' out NOW !

Get ready to feel the thunder! HAMMERFALL is back with their electrifying new album Avenge The Fallen, which is released today via Nuclear Blast Records worldwide.

The music from the album was recorded in Sweden by HAMMERFALL guitarist Pontus and mixed by Fredrik Nordström at Studio Fredman, once again co creating a true and genuine HAMMERFALL sound that the fans have come to love, while the vocals this time were recorded in L.A. together with producer Jay Ruston (ANTHRAX, COREY TAYLOR, AMON AMARTH, STEEL PANTHER etc).

Avenge The Fallen promises to be one of HAMMERFALL's most ambitious and powerful albums to date, building on their legacy while pushing their sound to new heights. Fans can expect more anthems, more epic moments, and the uncompromising metal spirit that HAMMERFALL is known for.

Dropping alongside the epic title track as a single, this powerhouse release is accompanied by a jaw-dropping music video that will leave you breathless. The track 'Avenge The Fallen' is a powerful anthem, kicking off with a deep, heroic choir that resonates like a warrior's cry. Brace yourself for soaring vocals, crushing riffs, and anthemic melodies that only HAMMERFALL can deliver.

WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW:

STREAM THE ALBUM ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://hammerfall.bfan.link/avenge-the-fallen.ema

Line-up:
Joacim Cans - vocals
Oscar Dronjak - guitar
Fredrik Larsson  - bass
Pontus Norgen - guitar
David Wallin – drums

HOMEPAGE: LINK
FACEBOOK: LINK
INSTAGRAM: LINK
TWITTER: N/A

Kublai Khan TX Announce New Album 'Exhibition Of Prowess' Out September 20 via Rise Records + Drop New Track "Supreme Ruler"

Texan titans Kublai Khan TX are back with a vengeance in announcing their much-anticipated forthcoming album 'Exhibition Of Prowess', out September 20 (via Rise Records). With an established reputation for delivering intense, earth-shattering bangers full of punishing breakdowns, vicious vocals and skull-splitting riffs, 'Exhibition Of Prowess' is a testament to the band's relentless drive and promises to be their most compelling work yet. In celebration of the news, Kublai Khan TX has dropped their latest rager "Supreme Ruler" and the official music video. When asked about the track, the quartet commented:

"'Supreme Ruler' is a metalcore torpedo aimed straight at the world. This song captures the true simplicity and pissed-off essence of Kublai Khan TX in its rawest form. Straight to the point, no bullshit, and built to last.”

The band has previously released crowd-favorite "Theory Of Mind" and most recently, "Low Tech" which both can be found on the upcoming full-length. Together, the tracks have amassed a staggering 11.2 million streams on Spotify alone and over 2 million viewson YouTube with no signs of stopping. Pre-order 'Exhibition Of Prowess' here, stream "Supreme Ruler" here, and watch the music video below.

North American fans will have their chance to see the band's incendiary live show on the road beginning in September with Lorna Shore, Whitechapel and Sanguisugabogg. Tickets will sell out, so grab yours at the link here before it's too late.

Kublai Khan TX Tour Dates with Lorna Shore, Whitechapel + Sanguisugabogg

Sep 19 - Montreal, QC - MTELUS

Sep 20 - Toronto, ON - HISTORY

Sep 21 - Moon Township, PA - UPMC Events Center

Sep 22 - Greensboro, NC - Greensboro Special Events Center

Sep 24 - Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live Orlando

Sep 25 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle

Sep 27 - Louder Than Life Fest - Louisville, KY**

Sep 28 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant

Sep 29 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom

Sep 30 - The Midland Theatre - Kansas City, MO*

Oct 2 - New Orleans, LA - The Fillmore New Orleans

Oct 3 - Houston, TX - House Of Blues

Oct 4 - San Antonio, TX - Boeing Center at Tech Port

Oct 5 - Dallas, TX - Southside Ballroom

Oct 7 - Phoenix, AZ - The Van Buren

Oct 8 - Las Vegas, NV - Brooklyn Bowl

Oct 10 - Anaheim, CA - House Of Blues

Oct 11 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern

Oct 12 - Aftershock Fest - Sacramento, CA**

Oct 14 - Portland, OR - Crystal Ballroom

Oct 15 - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom

Oct 17 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Complex

Oct 18 - Denver, CO - Fillmore Auditorium

Oct 19 - Omaha, NE - Steelhouse Omaha

Oct 20 - Minneapolis, MN - The Fillmore Minneapolis

Oct 22 - Chicago, IL - Radius

Oct 23 - Detroit, MI - The Fillmore Detroit

Oct 24 - Cleveland, OH - The Agora*

Oct 25 - Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore Silver Spring

Oct 27 - New York, NY - Hammerstein Ballroom

Oct 28 - Boston, MA - MGM Music Hall

Oct 29 - Philadelphia, PA - The Fillmore Philadelphia

Oct 30 - Wallingford, CT - Toyota Oakdale Theatre

*Not A Live Nation date

**No Kublai Khan & Sanguisugabogg

Apocalypse Fest

Nov 1 - Wilkes/Barre, PA - Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza

IN APHELION Shares Grim Music Video for New Single, "Fields in Nadir," New Album 'Reaperdawn' Out NOW

A new force is awakening, stretching the boundaries of consciousness, and devouring everything in its path. IN APHELION is now ushering in their sophomore album, 'Reaperdawn,' which is out today, August 9, 2024, via Century Media Records. The black metal brainchild of guitarist/vocalist Sebastian Ramstedt (best known as guitarist and songwriter with Necrophobic) is now unleashing the final single from the offering, "Fields of Nadir," along with a grim music video. The clip was directed and filmed by Ramstedt himself and can be found below.

Ramstedt explains, “It takes the viewer away from the comforting light. In order to put the viewer in the same state as me when I wrote the song it was necessary to break some rules. In nadir everything that is beautiful turns ugly. The warmer skin tone during the performance parts symbolizes this side of death. The cold colour of the outside is purgatory. The out of focus singing with the candles symbolizes death and the other side. The video is chaotically blending visions of the past the present and the future. It's cut with a dreamlike logic in mind.”

Darker, stranger, more epic and progressive than admirers of his work were expecting, this new outlet for enigmatic and artistic expression emerged firmly tethered to the white-knuckle viciousness of benchmark, Northern European black metal, while also exhibiting a profound affiliation with both classic, traditional heavy metal and the black magic of psychedelic repetition. Based around a core line-up of Ramstedt (guitar/vocals), drummer Marco Prij (also Cryptosis), rhythm guitarist Johan Bergebäck (Necrophobic) and bassist Tobias Cristiansson (Necrophobic, ex-Grave…), IN APHELION have taken the uncompromising DIY route to their current status as new Century Media signees.

The atmosphere of 'Reaperdawn' is a swirling maelstrom of obsidian sparkle and iridescent grime.

“Reaperdawn” is now available for in standard CD jewelcase, gatefold black LP, and a limited Gatefold bloodred LP (red Vinyl), 300x via cmdistro.de and other retailers. Physical copies can be found HERE.

The album artwork for 'Reaperdawn' was created by Sebastian Ramstedt


Lineup:

Johan Bergebäck - guitars

Tobias Cristiansson - bass

Marco Prij - drums

Sebastian Ramstedt - vocals, guitars

Mixing & Mastering: Tore Stjerna

Cover Art: Sebastian Ramstedt

Bio: Dom Lawson

Photos: Leo Bergebaeck

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APPLE MUSIC

Bill Leeb (Front Line Assembly, Delerium) releases 'Demons', a sinister foreshadowing of debut 'Model Kollapse' album

"A frenzy-filled dose of sonic adrenaline that is infectious and, paradoxically, suitable for the dancefloor... Is dystopian bliss a thing? They could be on to something big here" ~ The Spill Magazine

"You are getting Leeb’s classic vocals and lyrics, and some FLA style programming... some of the specific textures and bits of production feel different than anything in recent memory from the venerable artist" ~ I Die: You Die

"Instantly recognizable... still sounds like something unmistakably new... sinister synthetic soundscape" ~ Rock and Roll Fables


Hard-edged electronic music maverick Bill Leeb presents 'Demons', a song rooted in the inherent darkness and malevolence we see around us, where humans constantly deal with adversity while seeking purpose, joy and creativity. Reflecting on the omnipresence of technology and the internal battles we wage, this is ultimately a defiant anthem of perseverance.

This is the second taste of Leeb's debut solo album 'Model Kollapse', out on September 13 via iconic alternative music label Metropolis Records.

Based in Vancouver, Bill Leeb is the mastermind behind highly influential electro-industrial scene mainstays Front Line Assembly and ambient-pop duo Delerium, having gotten his start with Skinny Puppy. He is also a key member of other occasional recording projects, including Noise Unit, Intermix and Cyberaktif. Almost four decades on, his new album was recorded and produced in Vancouver, Toronto and Los Angeles with assistance from Vancouver/Toronto-based production duo Dream Bullet and long-term FLA/Delerium cohort Rhys Fulber, plus regular mixing engineer Greg Reely.


"The song is inspired by how much darkness and evil exist in the world. How we have to carefully navigate ourselves through all of this on a day-to-day basis and still try and find a reason to get up, be happy to be alive, and try to be creative. Technologies are here to stay. Demons exist everywhere in our minds, in our hearts, and every aspect, so we have to fight," says Bill Leeb.

 

An instant industrial-EDM classic, 'Demons' plunges listeners into a menacing, synthetic underworld. With a career spanning back to the early 1980s, Leeb's signature blend of creeping electronic darkness and high-octane energy once again delivers an adrenaline-fueled sonic assault.


Not long ago, Leeb shared the first single - ‘Terror Forms’ featuring Shannon Hemmett of Vancouver post-punk quartet ACTORS (and also LEATHERS), exploring the intricacies of artificial intelligence and the very survival of humanity itself. Quite fitting with the overall theme for this album, which explores the dystopian, nihilistic world we have created in so many different ways, ultimately asking the question "When will the human voice be lost to AI and technology....or will that be what saves us in the end?"


Based in Vancouver, Bill Leeb is the mastermind behind highly influential electro-industrial scene mainstays Front Line Assemblyand ambient-pop duo Delerium, having gotten his start withSkinny Puppy(under the pseudonym Wilhelm Schroeder). He is also a key member of other occasional recording projects, includingNoise Unit, Intermix andCyberaktif.

Four decades on, his new album was recorded and produced in Vancouver, Toronto and Los Angeles with assistance from Vancouver/Toronto-based production duoDream Bulletand long-term FLA/Delerium cohort Rhys Fulber, plus regular mixing engineer Greg Reely. This album also involves contributions by LA-based artist Mimi Page, a long-term Delerium collaborator, andJason Corbett of ACTORSand Jacknife Sound Studio.

‘Model Kollapse’ marks Leeb's first solo venture since the mid-80s days of Front Line Assembly, when he used to make recordings in his bedroom and released them on limited edition cassette format. This record reflects the dystopian, nihilistic world we have created in so many different ways, ultimately asking the question "When will the human voice be lost to AI and technology....or will that be what saves us in the end?"  

Caustic yet melodic, danceable and very much song-oriented rather than soundscape-driven, 'Model Kollapse' carries traces of hard-edged electronic dance music pioneers such as Front 242, DAF, KMFDM and Skinny Puppy.

The term "Model Collapse" refers to a phenomenon in artificial intelligence where trained models, especially those relying on synthetic data or AI-generated data, eventually degrade over time. Leeb posits the notion that “as we forge forward on an unprecedented technological scale, it makes me wonder how much longer we can remain in control of various aspects of our lives. Automation has already taken over many industries. With technology running much of the world, will the entire planet eventually be vulnerable to a Model Kollapse? Chaos would surely ensue.”

Leeb formed Delerium in 1987, exploring dark ethereal ambient trance and pop. Since debuting with the 'Semantic Spaces' album, Delerium has enjoyed two Juno awards and many collaborations, involving Leigh Nash (Sixpence None the Richer), Lisa Gerrard (Dead Can Dance), Kirsty Hawkshaw (Opus III), Emily Haines (Metric), Jacqui Hunt (Single Gun Theory), Matthew Sweet and Kristy Thirsk (Rose Chronicles). Their worldwide hit 'Silence' with Sarah McLachlan reached #1 in numerous countries, its remixes also hailed among the greatest trance songs of all time (the Tiësto remix was voted the 12th-greatest dance track of all time by Mixmag readers).

‘Demons’ is out now everywhere digitally. On September 13, the full ‘Model Kollapse’ album will be released on vinyl and CD, as well as digitally.

CREDITS
Recorded and produced in Vancouver, Toronto, Los Angeles and the Okanagan, British Columbia
Written and produced by Bill Leeb and Dream Bullet
Additional production by Rhys Fulber
Recorded, mixed and mastered by Greg Reely
'Demons' performed by Bill Lee
'Terror Forms' performed by Bill Leeb and Shannon Hemmett
Videos created by Tim Hill
Album artwork by Allen Jaeger
Released by Metropolis Records
Publicity by Shauna McLarnon for Shameless Promotion PR
Artist photos by Bobby Talamine

Keep up with Bill Leeb
Instagram | Facebook | Front Line Assembly Facebook | Delerium Facebook | FB Group| Spotify | Apple Music | Press contact

Keep up with Metropolis Records
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud | Instagram | LinkedIn | Email

M.A.G.S. Releases Atmospheric Single "Sequence 07" + Announces Upcoming Album "CREATOR"

Smartpunk Records' indie rock prodigy M.A.G.S. has released his new single "Sequence 07" in anticipation of his upcoming album CREATOR, set to release on August 23 via Smartpunk Records. It is an accompaniment and reimagination to last year's album Destroyer. 

When discussing the track, Elliott Douglas (the man behind the moniker) says, "This was the very last song we recorded during our time together and we had limited time because Ehmed was scheduled to leave town that evening. We woke up early and just dove in head first. My nugget of inspiration was to recreate the feeling I get from the verses of 'Kiss Me' by Sixpence None The Richer. I've loved that song since I was a kid, and honestly, I chase that feeling with so much of my music. There are a few songs that give me feelings I continuously reference, I think it's one of the reasons people call my music nostalgic all the time. I just love songs that sound happy and sad at the same time, like maybe the lyrics are kinda sad but the music slaps. That's definitely my thing. We had this one mostly done in about 3 hours. I think we really just wanted to make sure everything got done and pushed really hard right from the start of the day, also by this time the 3 of us were a well-oiled machine, and getting a vibe to build from only took a few minutes."

CREATOR was conceived and mixed by Elliott and was produced in collaboration with Jeremy Strange and Ehmed Nauman of Chicago's This House Is Creaking.

The experimental track, "Sequence 07," showcases a reimagined and reinvigorated side of M.A.G.S.' sound that exudes soul and a plethora of emotions that invigorate listeners with happiness, sadness, and nostalgia all at once. It is a first glimpse at the musical journey that lies ahead on the full album.

Speaking about the upcoming album, M.A.G.S. says, "I've been on my own wave for the majority of my career and CREATOR is the perfect example of what happens when I choose to create what feels right to me and not what is expected. With the help of two of my most talented friends, we reimagined my previous album Destroyer over the course of nine days in an apartment in Chicago in late 2023. Constructed entirely from my acoustic demos, we experimented and collaborated our way into a sound that goes far beyond what I ever thought M.A.G.S. was capable of."

Artwork Credit: Daniel Shahbazian

ABOUT M.A.G.S.
M.A.G.S. is the solo moniker for Buffalo-bred multi-disciplinary artist Elliott Douglas. His style seamlessly glides between genres ─ from funky garage rock to minty alt-pop with a punk-inspired energy. The release of his third full-length album Destroyer in 2023 via Smartpunk Records pushed Douglas into a more textural direction, dripping with flavors of post-punk while keeping his genre-bending melodies. Written by Douglas and produced by Jay Mass (Defeater), the album is about having to destroy yourself in order to grow and move forward — an extremely relatable phase in one's life.

M.A.G.S. released his first solo record in 2015, an EP titled Cellophane, and his self-titled LP arrived two years later — securing a seat amongst the most prominent indie/alt-rock artists. With his new batch of music, Douglas displayed marked growth in vocal prowess, overall musicality and lyrical bite through the release of 2020's Lost Tapes EP. Dougals' universal appeal feeds his success, and it's never at the expense of his art. Elsewhere in his blossoming catalog, songs like "MVP" and "Hi Tops" zig-zag from visceral, gnarly heavy metal to lo-fi folk-rock, respectively; his musicianship is a marvel to witness, each entry building on the last with refreshing acrobatics.

ABOUT SMARTPUNK RECORDS:
Smartpunk has been a recognizable name in the scene for a long time (Remember that sponsored Warped Tour stage?!). After exchanging several hands and countless ideas of what it could and should be, they decided to start a record label in 2016 with the main idea of focusing solely on reissuing records that have been out of print or never on vinyl. After all, they're a label of vinyl dorks themselves! After releasing Set Your Goals' Mutiny and Gameface's Good, they started to venture into signing newer bands. They actively balance in between many worlds — putting out amazing music from friends and bands that rock, reissuing older titles, and partnering with other incredible labels in our scene and doing exclusive color variants of their releases.

"Since forming the record label, Smartpunk Records has released timeless albums such as Less Than Jake's Anthem, Nominee's Lowlife, RIVALS' Sad Looks Pretty on Me, Virginity's POPMORTEM, and melodic skate punkers The Swellers' My Everest.

Blue Grape Music Signs Silly Goose, Band Drops "Tsunami" + EP Coming Soon

Blue Grape Music is pleased to welcome Silly Goose to the label roster.

The Atlanta band, which caught a buzz by crashing parking lots at Danny Wimmer festivals, have shared the new song "Tsunami."

Listen below.

As for the song, it's a crazy thrill ride.

So if you are truly ready, and we're not quite sure that you are but we'll give you the benefit of the doubt, then strap yourself in... because it's gonna get really bumpy... really quick!

Silly Goose is the audacious brainchild of Jackson Foster and Alan Benikhis, musicians who eat, sleep, and breathe the raw power of late '90s rap rock and nu metal. Growing up, the two marinated in the vibes of Limp Bizkit, Rage Against the Machine, Gojira, and an eclectic mix of genres, all coming together to forge the unmistakable sound of Silly Goose.
 
Silly Goose's first EP, The Goose Is Out Of The Bag, was put together while the boys were still in high school and laid the groundwork for their ambitious style, while simultaneously showcasing one of the attributes that their fans most appreciate – a commitment to delivering hard-hitting music without taking themselves too seriously. At the end of the day, Silly Goose are all about providing an outlet for all kinds of feelings, from frustration to rage, resentment and revenge to reveling in the joy of occasionally wanting to just be silly and mosh for the sheer exhilaration of it.
  
"Tsunami" continues to push boundaries in the spirit of the previously released tracks "King Of The Hill" and "Live It Up," marking a massive milestone as their first release since signing with Blue Grape Music.
 
What truly sets Silly Goose apart is their fusion of high-energy performances with a genuine, down-to-earth vibe. They never take themselves too seriously. Their simple mission is to make good music, have fun and make the people happy; a purpose that endears them to fans who appreciate the authenticity of their vibe. Silly Goose isn't just a band; they're a brotherhood of rockers who live to shred and put on unforgettable live shows.
  
The current lineup of Silly Goose features Foster on lead vocals, Benikhis on drums, Ian Binion on lead guitar and backup vocals, and Yalli Alvarez on bass guitar and backup vocals. Together, they create a sound that's both explosive and deeply engaging, powered by Jackson's dynamic vocal delivery and the band's relentless instrumentation. 

The band is expected to soon announce their next EP on Blue Grape Music, along with fall touring plans. 

ABOUT BLUE GRAPE MUSIC:
In 2022, industry veterans David Rath and Cees Wessels formed Blue Grape Music.  The name will be familiar to rock music fans, as it was the merchandise company also launched by Wessels, who founded the venerable and esteemed record label Roadrunner Records in the ‘80s. Roadrunner earned a reputation as an iconic label that turned hard rock and metal acts into household names for several decades under Wessels' tutelage. Rath spent 21 years in the A&R department at Roadrunner, working on albums by a variety of RIAA-certified and culturally important acts, including but not limited to Slipknot, Korn, Turnstile, Gojira, Coheed and Cambria, White Reaper, Slash, Trivium, Dream Theater, and more. When the label changed management and ownership, Rath guided the company and oversaw the signings of bands like Young the Giant and Vance Joy. Ultimately, the Blue Grape executive team is powered by experience and a roll-up-your-sleeves-and-get-your-hands-dirty, by-any-means-necessary work ethic. Blue Grape's inaugural signing was the two-time Grammy nominee Code Orange and since then, the label has gone on to sign San Francisco punks Spiritual Cramp, hardcore heavyweights GEL, and Baltimore sludge slingers GASKET, with several new signing announcements expected to be announced this year. Blue Grape is distributed globally by The Orchard.

Garzi Unveils Brand New Single & Music Video "Drag"

Fresh from the vibrant crossroads of alternative rock and post-emo, Garzi has dropped his brand new single, "Drag" and it's accompanying music video, out now via Sumerian Records. Fans can stream the new track HERE and can watch the official music video below.

Speaking on his new track, Garzi shares

"This is a song that came very quickly to me and was such an important way for me to express my vulnerability."

Garzi's unique sound palette is a reflection of his diverse influences, drawing from the angst of punk and emo to the aggression of nu-metal and grunge, all while threading through the lyrical flow of rap. His journey from a Warped Tour devotee to a full-fledged artist is marked by his breakout hit 'Demonstrate', and collaborations with industry icons like John Feldmann, Travis Barker and Mephis May Fire's Matty Mullins.

About Garzi:

Garzi is an Alternative Rock artist who stands at the intersection's of Alt/Indie, Post Emo, Nü Metal, Grunge and Rap. His authentic gritty, angsty, yet soothing melodic voice soars over his array of stylistic tracks.

 

The Miami native was a self-described lover of Warped Tour and gravitated towards hard rock, punk and emo sounds like Melphis May Fire and Sleeping With Sirens. "It was a fitting soundtrack to feelings of isolation, of being an outsider during those teenage years especially as a POC punk"

 

In October 2017, he uploaded his first song and quit his day job the next day to pursue music full time. A slew of releases followed, culminating in his breakout, "Demonstrate" (with producers Nick Mira and Taz Taylor), which had popped off on SoundCloud and now has over 16.5 million streams on Spotify.

 

IN 2022 he released EP, ‘Careful What You Wish For’ which spawned tracks “Mess” (with Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens), “HELLO//GOODBYE” (produced by John Feldmann and Travis Barker) and “PARANOIA” (remix) with Fever333 and Point North.

 

In late 2023, Garzi announced signing to world renowned independent label, Sumerian Records and dropped stand alone single 'Growin' Up", kicking off a whole new era. He then followed up with single "Much Better" in April of this year. With "Drag" he boldly steps further into his next chapter.

VOLA Release Latest Track "I Don't Know How We Got Here" + Lyric Video (via Mascot Label Group)

Today, the Danish-Swedish quartet VOLA reveal the elegantly hypnotic new single “I Don’t Know How We Got Here”. The song is taken from their new studio album ‘Friend of a Phantom’, which will be released via Mascot Records on 1 November. You can watch the visualiser below.

The band will also play festivals over the summer and their headline Friend of a Phantom European tour will begin on 1 November and will call through Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the UK, The Netherlands. Tickets available HERE.

VOLA have always had the remarkable ability to get under the skin of a song with incredibly affecting subject matter. Talking about the new song, Asger Mygind explains: "'I Don’t Know How We Got Here’ interweaves stories about tragic events in society with a story about a relationship slowly dying out. It seeks to portray the feeling of disbelief that follows when something valuable vanishes right in front of us.”

It has been three years since the release of VOLA's defining album, ‘Witness’. They've since wrapped up two tours of the US with several venues upgraded due to overwhelming demand, as well as sold-out shows in New York, Chicago and the iconic Troubadour in Los Angeles, where the band struck up a friendship with In Flames' Anders Fridén - who features on the new album on the song, “Cannibal”. Their first tour of Canada resulted in sold-out shows in Toronto and Montreal, and they rounded off the continent with triumphant South American shows in Mexico, Brazil, and a sold-out show in Chile.

 

The Danish-Swedish quartet - Asger Mygind (vocals/guitar), Martin Werner (keys), Nicolai Mogensen (bass), and Adam Janzi (drums) - are now to set free their fourth studio album. Their strength has always been combining a multitude of ideas within a single song, packing it in with a grandiose power that can be as ferocious as it can be delicate.  

 

Talking about their evolution, Janzi says. "We have had the time to internalise ‘Witness’ and let its aftermath sink in, which has shaped how we approached ‘Friend Of A Phantom.’ Our personal tastes have changed, the way we approach our instruments and songwriting has changed, our lives have changed, time has passed, and adventures have been had. Whatever piece of melancholy that ‘Witness' had, has just grown and become a central part of this new album. I feel that VOLA has grown and reached a new moment in its life, maturing."

 

With the announcement of the new album, they revealed the video for “Break My Lying Tongue”. The song showcases VOLA's signature blend of introspective lyrics and intricate soundscapes, offering a deep dive into themes of misalignment and emotional vulnerability. With its haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, it stands out as a powerful and evocative piece.

 

Last year they released the first taster of new material when they dropped "Paper Wolf". Talking about the song, Mygind offers, "We never put boundaries on our songwriting but merely search for a direction that feels unexplored and exciting to us. With "Paper Wolf", we suddenly found ourselves in a territory where an old-school metal atmosphere crept into our blend of sounds. We liked what we heard and then ran with it at full speed.”

VOLA has been one of Europe's most exciting metal bands in recent years, catapulting them onto the international stage. They've become a formidable live draw that has seen them also tour with Devin Townsend - including playing the Royal Albert Hall London; they've opened for Evanescence and played festivals such as ArcTanGent (UK), Graspop (Belgium), Tuska (Finland), Roskilde (Denmark), Copenhell (Denmark), CL Prog (Chile) and more. 

 

Known for their innovative approach to progressive metal, VOLA continues to captivate audiences with their blend of intense rhythmic complexity and poignant lyrical narratives. With this perpetual evolution, the pressure doesn't consume them. "There is always the pressure of continuing to climb the mountain," reflects Janzi. "Embracing change and whatever new chapters may wait around the corner is a way to make life more enjoyable."

VOLA Is:

Asger Mygind (vocals/guitar)

Martin Werner (keys)

Nicolai Mogensen (bass)

Adam Janzi (drums)

Iconic singer songwriter Gilbert O'Sullivan releases Songbook this September

One of the most revered singer-songwriters of his generation records pared down versions of 12 songs from his outstanding catalogue

Includes the first ever re-recording of his 1971 classic single ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ and a new song written specifically for the album,
‘A Kiss Is A Kiss’

Watch the video for ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ Below:

Pre-order: https://gilbertosullivan.lnk.to/SongbookPR


Following the acclaim and success of his last two studio albums – 2018’s Gilbert O’Sullivan and 2022’s Driven (“a songwriting masterclass” – ★★★★Uncut magazine) – on September 27 BMG release Songbook, a newly recorded, stripped-down journey through 12 songs from Gilbert O’Sullivan’s illustrious career.

The idea for Songbook arose after O’Sullivan’s 2022 Barbican show (where The Charlatans’ Tim Burgess duetted with him on ‘Nothing Rhymed’). BMG came up with the idea and suggested O’Sullivan record it in such a way to capture the instrumentation and interplay between him and guitarist Bill Shanley.

After carefully selecting the 12 songs that would be re-recorded, Gilbert insisted the songs should be recorded at a venue with no audience and not in a studio. Thereafter, recording took place over two days in late 2023 at Lafayette, King’s Cross with O’Sullivan on piano, long-time guitarist Bill Shanley and Andy Wright (Simply Red, Jeff Beck, Simple Minds, and Imelda May) and Gavin Goldberg on production duties.

The resulting album is a stripped back journey through the extraordinary songwriting of this master craftsman, one of the most gifted and consistently brilliant songwriters of his generation.

Iconic early O’Sullivan songs ‘Nothing Rhymed’, ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’, ‘We Will’ and ‘Happiness Is You and Me’, are joined by songs from Gilbert’s most recent albums, including 2018’s ‘Dansette Dreams and 45s’ and ‘I’ll Never Love Again’, and 2022’s ‘Blue Anchor Bay’, songs that are equal in their brilliance to his early work.

Songbook’s intimacy exemplifies Gilbert O’Sullivan’s unique blend of melodic craftsmanship, witty wordplay, topical acuity and surrealist humour, which has given him an enduring and endearing career.

O’Sullivan’s songwriting knack has outlived and transcended fashion, global million-sellers and critical acclaim, in a career that has spanned 55 years and Top 10 singles and no. 1’s around the world, including the classic ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ which topped the US charts for six weeks and earned him three Grammy nominations.

British recognition soon followed with the songs ‘Clair’ and ‘Get Down’ reaching the summit of the UK singles charts and his LP “Back to Front” topping the album charts.

In the same year, at the 18th. Ivor Novello awards, Gilbert was named ‘Song Writer of the Year’ - to date he has won three Ivor Novello awards and in recent times, performed alongside other artists at BBC Proms in the Park; made four appearances at Glastonbury including the main stage and toured extensively throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe, Japan and America.

Gilbert’s Ethan Johns-produced self titled 2018 album was acclaimed upon it’s release by the likes of MOJO magazine and secured his highest chart position for four decades. His 2022 album ‘Driven became his most critically well received album to date, awarded four stars in MOJO’, Uncut and Record Collector, with Shindig! magazine proclaiming it his best ever album.

His legacy and influence has been acknowledged by his diverse range of artists, including Paul Weller, Nina Simone, Neil Diamond, Pet Shops Boys and Elton John, James Murphy (LCD Soundsystem), Paul Heaton, Ron Sexsmith, Mick Hucknall, Boy George, The Lemon Twigs, Cmat, Michael Bublé and Diana Krall.

This year Gilbert received ‘Freedom of Waterford City’ in Ireland, the place of his birth.

NOTES
Gilbert O’Sullivan’s career has spanned 55 years. His first single proper Nothing Rhymed was released in 1970 and almost overnight it achieved Top 10 status In the UK charts. His debut album Himself was littered with the most perfect examples of his art and craftsmanship. Top 10 singles abounded, including the classic, Alone Again (Naturally). His second album, 1972’s Back To Front, firmly cemented Gilbert amongst the world’s best. This critically acclaimed album topped both the UK and US charts for an astonishing six weeks, earning him not one but three Grammy nominations.

British recognition soon followed with the songs Clair and Get Down reaching the summit of the UK singles charts and his LP Back To Front topping the album charts. In the same year at the 18th Ivor Novello Awards Gilbert was named ‘Song Writer of the Year’. To date he has won three Ivor Novello awards, and in recent times performed alongside artists including Ray Davies. He has also headlined Glastonbury (where he was once joined on stage by Squeeze’s Glenn Tilbrook), BBC Proms In The Park, toured extensively throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe, Japan and Australia.

Gilbert’s Ethan Johns-produced, self-titled 2018 album was acclaimed upon its release by the likes of MOJO magazine, and secured his highest chart position in four decades.

His 2022 album, Driven, became his most critically well received album to date. Awarded four stars in MOJO, Uncut and Record Collector, with Shindig! magazine proclaiming it “his best ever album.”

His legacy and influence has been acknowledged by a diverse range of artists, including: Paul Weller, Nina Simone, Neil Diamond, James Murphy (LCD Soundsystem), Ron Sexsmith, Har Mar Superstar, Mick Hucknall, Gary Barlow, Boy George, Rumer, The Lemon Twigs, Empire Of The Sun, CMAT, Michael Bublé and Diana Krall.

Last year Gilbert received ‘Freedom of Waterford City’ in Ireland, the place of his birth.



FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: 
http://www.gilbertosullivan.co.uk