Maya Kuriel Unveils Haunting New Single, "Dead Weight"

Rising pop sensation, Maya Kuriel, has kicked off 2025 with a powerful new single, "Dead Weight," an eerie and emotionally charged track that explores the suffocating weight of toxicity. Through raw lyrics and

experimental production, Maya plunges listeners into a disorienting descent—much like Alice falling down the rabbit hole—where the lines between reality and nightmare blur.

"Dead Weight" paints a visceral picture of drowning while "clawing, screaming" into the depths where the light can’t reach. The song encapsulates the battle of confronting what drags us down and ultimately finding the strength to break free. The music video for "Dead Weight" brings the song’s theme to life with surreal, fluid movements that evoke the feeling of being dragged down. Featuring hypnotic and unsettling visuals,Maya Kuriel is seen struggling and drowning in water, symbolizing the emotional weight that threatens to consume her.

Stream “Dead Weight” Here

Born and raised in Seattle and now based in Los Angeles, Maya Kuriel is a first-generation Korean American artist redefining the landscape of pop music. She’s a sonic architect crafting a world where eerie synths, raw emotion, and grungy production collide. Maya embraces the underrepresented, carving out a space for Asian voices in a genre that’s long overdue for a shake-up. Her music drips with moody textures and cinematic tension, luring listeners into a hypnotic haze of haunting melodies and pulsating beats. Since her debut in 2020, Maya has amassed over 2.5 million streams across all platforms, captivating audiences worldwide with her powerful vocal melodies and introspective lyrics. With a voice that floats between ethereal beauty and unfiltered grit, she’s the storm brewing on the edge of pop’s horizon—one that refuses to be ignored.

JOHN MORGAN DROPS REMINISCENT “KID MYSELF” AHEAD OF DEBUT ALBUM, CAROLINA BLUE, OUT APRIL 25

Billboard’s “Country Rookie of the Month” and MULTI #1 hit songwriter John Morgan drops the final preview of his debut album, Carolina Blue, out April 25, with the stunning “Kid Myself.” As his party starter smash “Friends Like That (feat. Jason Aldean)” surges into the Top 5 at country radio, the rising star’s breathtaking track travels back to a regretful decision that cut a relationship short. Listen to “Kid Myself” and pre-order/pre-save/pre-add Carolina Blue HERE.

The final preview of Carolina Blue examines the tough but mature truth behind the past, pairing the tactful artist’s distinctly bold, emotive vocal delivery and striking, unexpected lyricism. With a delicately thoughtful spin on words, “Kid Myself” was written by John, Tyler Hubbard (of Florida Georgia Line) and Jordan Schmidt (Morgan Wallen, HARDY, ERNEST).

“‘Kid Myself’ was the first time I ever wrote with Tyler Hubbard,” John shares. “I was so nervous the night before because I knew I had to come into the writing room with a good idea, or he might never write with me again. Luckily, I threw out ‘Kid Myself,’ and Tyler and Jordan both loved it. This song is about my life before I moved to Nashville and a past relationship that might have been the one - had I been ready for it. Ultimately though, it’s about forgiving yourself.” 


Watch Official Music Video for “Kid Myself” Below:

Lauded as an “accomplished songwriter” by People and “Music City Songwriting Star” by the Tennessean, the boldly gritty North Carolina native will deliver a tantalizing robust 12-track debut. A brilliantly curated collection of songs, the authentically humble and tenaciously driven powerhouse artist not only co-wrote every track and played every guitar, but he also co-produced it alongside Brent Anderson. 

“Whether he’s crafting a country ballad or riding a ’90s-rock pulse, Morgan’s work is consistently melodic, designed to hook a listener in a heartbeat” - Billboard


With “stadium-ready written all over him” (All Country News), the captivating entertainer will open for Chase Matthew, bring the heat to Tortuga Music Festival and Stagecoach, and hit the road with Kane Brown this year.

Photo Credit: Matthew Berinato

About John Morgan: 
With a style that’s defined by melodic grit and a craftsman’s approach to songwriting, John Morgan brings a blue-collar toughness to country that’s pulled straight from the only life he knows. Hailing from a tiny town called Sylva, deep in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, John grew up immersed in bluegrass tradition and even toured the festival circuit each summer in a family band, before diving into songwriting, inspired by six-string legends from Tony Rice to John Mayer. Now, “a Music City songwriting star” (Tennessean), he has earned cuts with Jon Pardi, Dustin Lynch, Thomas Rhett and an outstanding 16 for Jason Aldean, including the superstar’s #1 songs - “Trouble With A Heartbreak” and the GRAMMY® nominated, ACM Single of the Year “If I Didn’t Love You” with Carrie Underwood, along with Aldean’s latest single at country radio “Whiskey Drink” currently climbing the charts. Praised by People as an “accomplished songwriter,” Aldean signed the sought-after, powerhouse artist “with guitar skills that will knock your cowboy boots off" (Nash News) to Night Train Records, his imprint with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Having made his Grand Ole Opry debut and logging hours on the road opening for Aldean, ERNEST, Riley Green, Nate Smith and Jameson Rodgers, his party starter smash “Friends Like That” - featuring Jason Aldean - is currently surging into the Top 10 at country radio. With the Tennessean praising the “live concert favorite whose banjo and steel underpinnings still allow room for a hard-rocking core,” John's breakout radio single has Billboard applauding, “Broken hearts aren’t typically pleasurable, although the breezy melody and pulsing guitars on ‘Friends Like That’ make loneliness sound attractive.” Giving fans a taste of new music with the striking “Kid Myself,” jaunty “Crickets,” confident “I Know Better” and heartrendingly smooth “Long Ride Home,” John Morgan’s highly anticipated debut album, Carolina Blue, drops April 25. 

KEEP UP WITH JOHN MORGAN
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ASKA Release The Album KNIGHT STRIKE to All Digital Services Release New Single and Video for Track 1944,

 BraveWords Records is pleased to announce the digital release of ASKA "Knight Strike". To accompany the digital release ASKA release the latest single and brand new music video for the track 1944.

 

Stream of Purchase "Knight Strike": https://smarturl.it/aska

 

Watch the video below:

ASKA talking about their new video 1944, "This song is a work of historical fiction which takes a pivotal point in world history and posits the question: "What if....?"

 

Controversial? Maybe. Yet there have been many books, films and television series written on the same premise. To say we find it a bit preposterous that we were forced to remove all symbology and iconography of one side's combatants and leadership from our video to meet YouTube's censorship standards would be the understatement of the year. Especially when one can see far worse on any documentary dealing with the actual events, not the fictionalized ones we were originally portraying here.

 

It goes without saying, the song is a work of historical, military fiction based on actual events. ASKA does not condone war, discrimination or persecution of anyone based simply on religion, gender or race.

 

Now crank up the volume, hit play, share with your friends and be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section."

About ASKA:
ASKA, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas-based, long-running heavy metal band has, as the title they gave their 3rd international tour can attest, "been there, done that". And how! In 1992, just a short year after the release of the group's self-titled debut album, they began touring the world performing at military bases, embassies and satellite installations around the globe for the U.S. Dept. of Defense/USO entertainment services. For nine years the group maintained a steady course, playing for U.S & foreign military troops in well over 56 countries and territories globally before turning their focus to the civilian world. There, they promptly played festivals around America and Europe and furthered their exposure in no small way. From inception to present, ASKA released seven full length albums on both national and international labels. 

 

During the process, ASKA's triple-threat frontman/vocalist/guitarist, George Call, came to the attention of cult, US underground metal pioneers, Omen, where he was promptly recruited to take over the lead vocalist slot for three years while still maintaining his role in ASKA. When that association dissolved, George was immediately snatched up by former Atlantic Records/Metal Blade, Midwestern, MTV veterans, Banshee, where he's been front and center on the band's two newest top notch releases. While helming both bands after a fateful meeting at a festival performance with ASKA in Germany, Call, was further enlisted to join U.K. legendary, cult NWOBHM band, Cloven Hoof, where he proceeded to record and release three critically acclaimed, fan-favorite albums. ASKA drummer Danny White joined George on two of these endeavors while the band's long-serving bassist/vocalist, Keith Knight, engineered and recorded a high percentage of George's extra-curricular activity at his Knight Recording Studios, keeping the three working together even when it was outside of the band. 
 
About BraveWords Records:
BraveWords Records has released albums by Paul Di'Anno's Warhorse, The Chris Slade Timeline, Rhett Forrester and Rob Robbins, Prophets of Addiction, Jack Starr and future releases from Lillian Axe, Crimson Glory and ASKA.


There is a serious void which desperately needs to be filled, hard-working and creative bands that have yet to find a partnership and a mutual vision with a professional team. The music-fuelled minds behind BraveWords Records, Brian Adams, Giles Lavery, Tim Henderson and Michael Brandvold, have built the ultimate home for an artist that will take you where you want to be. Collectively, with nearly 100 years of music industry experience under our belts, the BraveWords Records team will take care of all the crucial aspects of your project from global distribution (digital and physical), publicity and media coverage (web, radio, visual), social media blanketing and streaming opportunities (such as Streaming For Vengeance). Where most labels have forgotten the concept of actually marketing a release sensibly, BraveWords Records will construct a viable and comprehensive marketing plan, including visibility at BraveWords.com, which attracts a million visitors monthly. BraveWords Records has all senses on high alert as the music industry continues its never-ending transitioning, so the artist will always be aware of new opportunities to build their brand and strive for world domination. BraveWords will also have a focus on licensing film and TV content, both contemporary and retrospective across many genres. As artists and labels transition to the many new mediums available today for their work, BraveWords intends to stay ahead of the curve in providing and actively seeking opportunities for our roster of clients.

With the rapid spread of the world wide web, BraveWords.com was born in 2000 and quickly became the CNN of heavy metal. With its team of global writers and photographers, the site flourished with 24/7 updated news, features, reviews, audio and video steams.

For nearly 30 years, BraveWords wears their metal heart loudly on their sleeve, as they celebrate the greatest genre of music with the most dedicated and passionate fans on the planet!
 
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MOLOTOV SOLUTION Step Into The Void With Long-Awaited EP Release; Drop Single "Stranglehold"

Las Vegas-based hyper influential deathcore titans Molotov Solution have officially unleashed their long-awaited EP, ‘Void,’ out now via all major streaming platforms. Produced, engineered, and mixed by Will Putney (Fit For An Autopsy, Thy Art Is Murder, Knocked Loose), ‘Void’ marks the band’s first full collection of new material in over a decade — and it arrives with the release of the band’s ferocious new single, "Stranglehold." Stream the full 'Void' EP HERE and watch the visualizer for "Stranglehold" Below.

Speaking on today's release, vocalist Nick Arthur shares:

"Releasing new music for the first time since 2011 is something we never knew if we’d get the chance to do again. This band has always been about more than just heavy music—it’s been our way of making sense of the chaos, of speaking out when words alone weren’t enough. Coming back after all these years, we weren’t sure what to expect, but the support we’ve received has been overwhelming. To everyone who’s still here, who still believes in what we do—this is for you. This release means everything to us. Thank you for giving us a reason to do this again.

Void is out now on all streaming platforms. Play it loud. Spread the word. The fire still burns."

Molotov Solution launched their return from hiatus last year with ferocious, no-holds-barred intent in the form of music video trilogy - "Devour The Children", "Mortis Imperium" and "The Golden Tower" - The band then released single "Necessary Evil" along with the announcement of the 'Void' EP last month. Today they release the fifth and final track from the EP, "Stranglehold".

Thus, the 'Void' EP is unleashed upon the world, a narrative of corruption, betrayal, and resistance, delivering a sonic assault proving that Molotov Solution remain one of the most innovative, unique and uncompromisingly brutal forces in the deathcore genre, despite their 10 year hiatus. Equally scathing, if not more so, the band's unfiltered sociopolitical commentary is more vital now than it has ever been. This is Molotov Solution’s most intense and unflinching work to date — a visceral exploration of power and oppression. The band’s signature sound — a blistering combination of bone-crushing breakdowns, atmospheric dread, and politically charged lyricism — has once again been sharpened and elevated under the guidance of producer, Will Putney.

To celebrate the EP release, Molotov Solution have also announced a limited edition vinyl release of 'Void'. The A-side will feature all five tracks from the EP, while the B-side will showcase exclusive alternate versions featuring some of our favorite voices in the metal scene:

  • Devour the Children – Kyle Medina (Bodysnatcher)

  • Necessary Evil – Kyle Anderson (Brand of Sacrifice)

  • Mortis Imperium – Johnny Ciardullo (Carcosa/Angelmaker) & Casey Tyson-Pearce (Angelmaker)

  • Stranglehold – Alex Erian & Steve Marois (Despised Icon)

  • The Golden Tower – Joe Badolato (Fit For an Autopsy)

These B-side versions will initially be only available on this limited edition vinyl which is available now from molotovsolution.com

ABOUT MOLOTOV SOLUTION

Molotov Solution are back, reawakened after a decade of silence with a renewed fire and an uncompromising vision. Known for their politically charged, ferociously heavy sound, the Las Vegas-based band is ready to reclaim their position at the forefront of extreme music. With a legacy built on confronting societal corruption, power struggles, and injustice, their return is a statement: the fight isn't over, and neither are they.

Molotov Solution’s 2011 album, Insurrection, is widely regarded as one of the most influential deathcore releases of its time, shaping the genre for years to come. Sadly, the band went on indefinite hiatus after its release leaving a huge influence but a gaping hole in deathcore genre. On November 1st, 204 they emerged from a decade-long hiatus with their powerful new single, “Devour The Children” a brutal and rageful statement of intent heralding the band's timely resurrection. Known for their fearless approach to exposing corruption and power struggles through their music, Molotov Solution’s voice is more vital than ever, delivering an unflinching soundtrack to the turbulent times we face with the fierce intent to challenge and resist.

 

Molotov Solution has always been more than just a deathcore band. They are a voice for those who resist, a sonic assault against the systems that oppress. As they step into this new chapter, they carry with them the same relentless energy that defined their past but with a sharpened edge and a deeper urgency. In a world that seems more chaotic and fractured than ever, their music is not just relevant—it is essential.

 

Fans can expect new music that continues to challenge listeners, both sonically and lyrically. Their signature blend of heavy, gut-punching riffs and politically infused messages will drive their upcoming releases, which promise to be as intense and confrontational as ever. 

 

With new music and renewed determination, Molotov Solution are ready to unleash a new era of heavy music that will resonate with old fans and new alike.

RED MOON ARCHITECT Announce "October Decay" Album; Unleash Video for First Single! ​ 

Melodic doom metal band RED MOON ARCHITECT have announced their sixth studio album, October Decay, set for release on April 17th via Noble Demon.

Hailing from Kouvola, Finland, RED MOON ARCHITECT have consistently delivered critically acclaimed albums, solidifying their presence within the doom metal scene. The band, originally a solo project by drummer Saku Moilanen, has evolved through various lineup changes, culminating in their current formation featuring Ville Rutanen on vocals.

Following their 2020 release, "Emptiness Weighs The Most", also put out by Noble Demon, "October Decay" adds another chapter to RED MOON ARCHITECT's impressive discography. Their musical journey has seen them explore diverse sonic landscapes, notably with "Kuura" in 2019, a release that delved into darker, black metal-influenced territories. Earlier albums like "Fall" (2015) and "Return of the Black Butterflies" (2017) further demonstrate their evolution and commitment to crafting compelling doom metal. Over the years, RED MOON ARCHITECT have shared the stage with top-class acts such as Amorphis, Swallow The Sun, Moonsorrow, Insomnium and Wolfheart and have cemented their reputation by performing at numerous metal festivals.

 

With "First of October", today, RED MOON ARCHITECT have just unleashed the first single from their soon-to-be-released album. The track is accompanied by a music video, which you can watch below:

October Decay will be coming out on April 17 via Noble Demon and is now available for pre-order at THIS LOCATION

For more info visit:
https://www.facebook.com/RedMoonArchitect/ 
https://www.instagram.com/redmoonarchitect/ 
https://twitter.com/rmametal 
https://linktr.ee/nobledemon 

GATES TO HELL | DEATH COMES TO ALL OUT NOW + RELEASE MUSIC VIDEO FOR '21 SACRAMENTS'

Louisville natives GATES TO HELL have returned to deliver their undeniable truth—Death Comes to All. The band brings a monstrous energy to the studio and an unmatched ferocity to their live performances.

In celebration of the album's release, the band unveils the music video for the track, '21 Sacraments'. The mosh-inducing song was inspired by the storyline of the Silent Hill game series. Directed and edited by Errick Easterday, watch the music video for '21 Sacraments' which includes iconic visuals from the video game.  

GATES TO HELL comments, "We are super stoked for Death Comes To All to finally be out for everyone to hear. It was great working with Randy when recording the album and we put a lot of time gearing up for this record to come out. We appreciate all the help from the Nuclear Blast team and all the support of everyone who has been checking out the singles and pre-ordering the record. Now it’s time to get back to the best part of music which is touring with friends and playing shows.”

Order/stream Death Comes to All:
https://gth.bfan.link/death-comes-to-all

GATES TO HELL will celebrate the release of their new album Death Comes To All with a hometown show at Headliners Music Hall with INTERNAL BLEEDING, ORTHODOX, HOLD MY OWN, GORED EMBRACE, and xGAARGOYALEx. This Spring, the band will join headliners THE ACACIA STRAIN on their 'It Can Always Get Worse 2025' tour. The 13-date trek will kick off on May 2nd at Amityville Music Hall and will make stops in Virginia Beach and Memphis before making appearances at Welcome To Rockville and later concluding the run at Milwaukee Metal Fest on May 18th. The tour package includes FROZEN SOUL and SNUFF ON SIGHT. 

GATES TO HELL live dates
03.22  Louisville, KY @ Headliners Music Hall

'It Can Always Get Worse 2025' tour
w/ THE ACACIA STRAIN, FROZEN SOUL and SNUFF ON SIGHT

05.02 Amityville, NY @ Amityville Music Hall
05.03 Asbury Park, NJ @ House Of Independents
05.05 Virginia Beach, VA @ Elevation 27
05.06 Greensboro, NC @ Hangar 1819 (no Frozen Soul)
05.07 Charleston, SC @ Music Farm
05.10 Bloomington, IL @ Castle Theater (no Frozen Soul)
05.11 Springfield, MO @ The Regency Live
05.12 Little Rock, AR @ The Rev Room
05.13 Memphis, TN @ Growlers
05.14 Nashville, TN @ Eastside Bowl
05.15 Daytona Beach, FL @ Welcome To Rockville
05.16 Chattanooga, TN @ Barrelhouse Ballroom (no Frozen Soul)
05.17 St. Louis, MO @ Red Flag (no Frozen Soul)
05.18 Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest

Other Dates
08.05 Birmingham, AL @ Furnace Fest 2025
09.21 Louisville, KY @ Louder Than Life

For more information on the tour, please visit: www.gatestohellofficial.com/tour-dates

Fueled by youthful ambition and a sharp creative focus, the band enlisted Randy LeBoeuf. The partnership resulted in raw intensity with a sharpened sense of precision, elevating their sound to new heights. Their album artwork—crafted by WYRMWALK—offers a fitting representation of the blood-soaked dread and suffocating darkness that Death Comes to All unleashes.

Death Comes To All is available in a variety of formats including CD Jewel, LP Vinyl in a purple swirl, light blue splatter (band exclusive), and purple and white swirl with black splatter (Life and Death Brigade Festival | New England Metal & Hardcore Festival exclusive) as well as a T-shirt. Also available is a special edition 7-inch containing the band's first single 'Next To Bleed' from the full-length album.

Purchase the physical formats of the full-length, exclusive 7-inch, and shirt here: https://gth.bfan.link/death-comes-to-all

Looking ahead to 2025, GATES TO HELL are preparing to storm the road and spread their ferocious energy to as many new audiences as possible. With Nuclear Blast Records fueling their fire, they’re ready to leave concertgoers in the wake of their annihilation. Death Comes to All, but GATES TO HELL will make sure you feel it first.


GATES TO HELL is:
Ryan Storey | Vocals
Eli Hanson | Guitar
Seth Lewis | Guitar
Dustin Cantrell | Bass
Trey Garris | Drums

Stream GATES TO HELL:
Apple Music | Spotify

Follow GATES TO HELL:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | Youtube | Store

German Goth Rock Band MONO INC. Announce New Album 'Darkness' Out August 15th via NoCut

German goth rock band MONO INC. are proud to announce their new album 'Darkness,' out on August 15th via NoCut. To celebrate the announcement, the band has released the first single titled "In My Darkness," which is accompanied by a music video, available to view below.

Bandleader Martin Engler characterizes the brilliant track "In My Darkness" as follows:

"The darkness in us has a right to be there. We've all had to endure a lot and feel a lot of pain - and yet we're still here. This is what makes 'In My Darkness' a song for this time and for all time. Even when the world around us is in chaos, we know that there is this light within us that can send us warmth and a glimmer of hope into the darkness. We shine for ourselves - we've done it so many times before!"

Watch the Music Video for "In My Darkness"

The pull of darkness. Sometimes you seem to lose yourself in it, sometimes it offers you protection and security. Yet our inner light will always outshine the darkness and let you rise up again, like a raven rising from the ruins. MONO INC. are back - celebrating the light and power we all carry within us! 

 

Following the chart-topping releases of 'The Book of Fire' and 'Ravenblack', yet another sold-out Symphonic Tour, and headline slots at countless festivals, the 13th studio album will finally be released on August 15, 2025. 'Darkness' is an ode to the strength we all carry within us. Solidarity and tolerance, charity, and self-love: 'Darkness' is about all that, has carried the ever-growing Raven Community through the storms and lifted them from the depths over the years.

This is not the only reason MONO INC.'s 2025 is more complex than ever. These giants of dark rock unite great melodies with emotional depth in the 12 songs on 'Darkness.' This new album unleashes momentous power, whilst simultaneously creating intimate moments - a feat to be experienced live from October, on MONO INC.'s biggest tour to date. 

Pre-Order 'Darkness' HERE

GILLSAW Immerse Yourself with an Electrifying Experience with the Release of the bands Debut EP "FOG WATCH"

STREAM "FOG WATCH"

 The wait is over.

Prepare for the sonic storm of the year as industrial metal trailblazers Gillsaw prepare to unleash their highly anticipated debut EP, "Fog Watch", out NOW.

This six-track powerhouse will pull listeners into a relentless world of crushing rhythms, eerie atmospheres, and guttural intensity. With a unique blend of industrial noise, sludgy metal riffs, and haunting electronic landscapes,

Gillsaw carves out their own space in the genre.

"Fog Watch" showcases the band’s ability to blend chaotic energy with thought-provoking storytelling, offering an immersive experience that’s both exhilarating and unsettling.

FOG WATCH Narrative:

"Fog Watch" tells the tragic story of Ian, a man descending into madness. Through a series of increasingly distorted experiences, we witness his journey from isolated lighthouse keeper to drug-addicted nomad.

  • Fog Watch: Ian battles loneliness and encroaching insanity, symbolized by the perpetual fog. The lyrics reflect his isolation and mental deterioration.

  • Thankful: Ian's desire for validation turns to bitter rage as he resents the lack of gratitude from those he protects.

  • Rizen: Ian falls under the influence of a false deity, surrendering reason for blind obedience.

  • Siren Comes: Ian faces nightly temptations, battling internal fears and desires.

  • Trenched In: Ian's final act of devotion leads to his self-burial, a symbolic death and rebirth.

  • Bombay Way: The reality is revealed: Ian's experiences were drug-induced delusions, culminating in a fatal overdose in Bombay Beach.

"FOG WATCH" explores themes of isolation, the search for meaning, and the destructive power of delusion.

GILLSAW'S SOUND

Gillsaw's sound is a meticulously crafted fusion of heavy metal's muscularity and industrial music's stark, electronic edge. This powerful core is layered with intricate progressive structures and ethereal new age ambient textures, creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere that defies genre boundaries.

New Model Army Release New Single "Poison Street (Live At SO36)" From Live Album Out March 28

Raw, unfiltered, and brimming with energy, the album showcases New Model Army at their most visceral. The performance features fan favorites like "Poison Street," alongside rarer tracks the band has never performed live before, spanning various eras of their extensive history. This live album serves as a companion piece to their 2023 release, Sinfonia, recorded just the day before. 

Listen to "Poison Street (Live at SO36)" Below:

"When the idea of doing a New Model Army concert with a full orchestra at Berlin's magnificent Tempodrom venue was first floated, we had a thought: That if we were going to do something so extravagant, we should also do the exact opposite on the same weekend. So, we booked the following two evenings at Berlin's legendary Punk Rock sweatbox, the SO36 in Kreuzberg, and returned to being the simplest, stripped down version of New Model Army we could be — without orchestra, keyboards, or double drums," the band says.

NMA continue, "Over the two nights, we performed 38 different songs (to add to the 21 performed with the orchestra), with the intention that the weekend should be seen as a whole. The Sinfonia project, in all its magnificence, was released in 2023. Now, at last, comes the sweaty, full on rock 'n' roll. Both nights were recorded although only the first was filmed. Here it is!" 

Pre-order the album Live SO36 here.

Live SO36 will be available as 2CD+DVD Digipak, including the full show audio and video, and Black 2LP Gatefold. The first print-run of both formats exclusively include an audio download for the unreleased Show 2, recorded one day later on July 17.

BLACKBRIAR - RELEASE BRAND NEW SONG 'I BURIED US'

Today Dutch symphonic metal band BLACKBRIAR release their brand new song 'I Buried Us', a powerful track blending crushing guitar riffs, soaring orchestral elements, and raw, emotional vocals.

Zora Cock comments: "'I Buried Us' captures the haunting aftermath of love laid to rest. In this song, I mentally dig a grave for a romance, but my imagination refuses to stay buried. I envision the two of us side by side, six feet under, a decayed heart still aching for their warmth. In my mind, we're still dancing in the afterlife, twirling in the 'what-ifs' and 'could-have-been.'"

Watch the video for 'I Buried Us' below:

Stream `I Buried Us' here: 
https://blackbriar.bfan.link/i-buried-us

Stream/Order the album A Dark Euphony here: 
https://blackbriar.bfan.link/a-dark-euphony

About BLACKBRIAR:

“Some say that there is beauty in darkness - terrifying visitors, worlds far gone, gothic romances, bone-chilling legends, sin-eaters, burning hearts frozen in time, songs with a misleading voice, and a truthful whisper. This and so much more for you to discover on A Dark Euphony.” Such are the words of vocalist Zora Cock about the band’s sophomore album, which was released in fall 2023 on Nuclear Blast Records. A telling sign coming from a band who has reveled in gothic beauty and metallic darkness since their onset, spanning three EPs and a full-length album, along with long-time collaborator Joost van den Broek.

Formed in 2012 by Zora Cock, René Boxem, Bart Winters, and Frank Akkerman, they crafted their first single in 2014 with 'Ready to Kill,' but it was 2015’s second single 'Until Eternity' that truly propelled them into the scene.  A sweeping track with an equally compelling and beautiful video, it continues to draw many to the act with over 20 million views since its debut. Taking advantage of the growing buzz surrounding the band, they independently recorded and released their first EP, Fractured Fairytales, as well as acquiring a second guitarist in Robin Koezen. This EP laid down an impressive foundation for the band’s ethereal and breathtaking sound and brought about new opportunities for the act, including tour dates in The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and more, where the band played alongside EPICA, HALESTORM, IN THIS MOMENT, DELAIN and MaYan.

To keep moving ahead with full control of their creative ideals, the band successfully crowdfunded their follow-up EP, We’d Rather Burn, and brought it to life in October 2018. This EP would be the first time the band worked alongside esteemed producer Joost van den Broek to arrange and produce the effort, and this fruitful collaboration allowed BLACKBRIAR’s whimsical and enigmatic sound to reach new sonic heights.  Released the same day as their self-made video for 'I’d Rather Burn,' this EP showcased a stronger sense of dreamy atmosphere and brought listeners beautifully grim tales of witches, banshees, and sea sirens.  In the time following, keyboardist Ruben Wijga (ex-Re-Vamp) took a larger role within the band and began playing shows, after being involved in the songwriting process since Fractured Fairytales.

A busy 2019 followed the band released a haunting single in May entitled 'Snow White and Rose Red.'  A duet with Ulli Perhonen, their take on the Grimm’s fairytale featured striking cinematic visuals to accompany the spellbinding track. Continuing to dig deeper into fairytale realms, BLACKBRIAR closed the year with their third EP, Our Mortal Remains.  Ever-sharpening their intoxicating blend of storytelling and breathtaking musicianship, the EP brought about new live exposures for the act as well.  Small, sold out tours with EPICA in 2019 and 2020, as well as a sold-out opening for DELAIN’s Apocalypse & Chill release show in Utrecht followed, with more future plans then being put on hold due to COVID-19. 

Championing their continued independence, which included everything from songwriting, maintaining their web presence, overseeing merch, as well as shooting and producing their own videos and photos, BLACKBRIAR reached out to their ever-growing and loyal fanbase for assistance to make their full-length album a reality in 2020. Fans fervently heeded the call, reaching the € 25,000 goal in under 24 hours and ending with a total of € 70,000 and achieving all five stretch goals.  An impressive accomplishment for an independent act, which also showcases a strong internet presence with over 230,000 YouTube subscribers and 56.5 million channel views as well as 37.9 million Spotify streams and 275,000 monthly streamers on the platform.  

Entering 2021, the band relinquished a bit of control in signing exclusively with Doomstar Bookings to help properly support their highly anticipated first full-length album, The Cause of Shipwreck, which released in April.  Once again recorded with renowned producer Joost van den Broek (EPICA, AYREON, POWERWOLF) at Sandlane Recording Facilities, this release showcased the band’s continued evolution into masterfully dark gothic storytelling and theatrical aesthetics that entice you into a deadly yet spellbinding musical paradise. On the live front, launching into success with six sold-out Dutch club shows, they later extended into more European territories such as Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, France, and the Czech Republic as the band moved into 2022. 

Despite a very successful 2021, the band still hungered for more, unleashing their latest single, 'Fairy of the Bog' in December.  A song about ‘het meisje van Yde’ (Yde girl), it’s a mixture of folklore, myth, and ancient local history wrapped into a more mystical and magical package that showcases what BLACKBRIAR does best. Due to winning ‘Drents Talent Award Culture 2021’ from ‘Stichting Kunst & Cultuur,’ BLACKBRIAR performed ‘I’d Rather Burn’ live on television together with the Dutch ‘Noordpool Orchestra in early 2022. In April, the band parted ways with founding member and bassist Frank Akkerman. Not a band to slow down, they welcomed Siebe Sol Sijpkens from The Netherlands as their new bassist.  A happy and energetic performer with a lifetime of global performances, he is a welcome addition to the act as they continue to strive forward.

With their vision looking firmly into the future, with a major label behind them, they set their sights on 2023 to conjure their most deadly siren song yet.  The band released the song 'Crimson Faces' to celebrate their partnership with Nuclear Blast Records and released the new album A Dark Euphony in fall. Set to contain 10 new original songs as well as a bonus track, they recently released their first single from it with 'My Soul’s Demise.' According to Zora, “We've had the pleasure of working with producer and musical genius Joost van den Broek, and we gave it our all to write this record and feel that this is our most complete, personal, and mature album to date.” With this in mind, the band launched a preorder campaign in April for the release, full of unique perks, which has been quite successful already. They also played festival shows like Wave Gotik Treffen, SummerBreeze, and Rock the Lakes in 2023, as well as being a special guest on CHARLOTTE WESSELS’s Club Tour.

With accolades behind them, such as being nominated three times for ‘Best Artist’ in EuroSonic/Noorderslag‘s Popgala Noord (2018, 2020, 2022), and continued fan support with current monthly streaming totals on YouTube and Spotify near 1.5 million streams, the world is primed and ready for a spectacular journey into darkness and beauty.


BLACKBRIAR is:
Zora Cock - VOCALS
René Boxem - DRUMS
Bart Winters - GUITARS
Robin Koezen - GUITARS
Siebe Sol Sijpkens - BASS
Ruben Wijga - KEYS

...and Oceans Channel Seismic New Single

While they've always ebbed and flowed between different extremes over the course of the past 30 years, on their upcoming seventh album, ...and Oceans are surging onto the scene with their most expansive experiment in symphonic black metal. The Regeneration Itinerary melds black and death metal with symphonic, industrial and electronic elements, plus inspiration from Paulo Coelho's best-selling novel The Alchemist.

The band's latest single from The Regeneration Itinerary pushes them into further uncharted territory. With its relentless riffs, soaring orchestration and maze-like song structure, "Prophetical Mercury Implement" dives deep into  the album's overarching themes of transformation, duality and rebirth.   


Watch the music video for "Prophetical Mercury Implement" below:

The Regeneration Itinerary comes out May 23rd on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/andoceanstheregenerationitinerary

On "Prophetical Mercury Implement", ...and Oceans encapsulate the full metal alchemy of The Regeneration Itinerary. The band's latest single draws upon the volatile yet transformative properties of mercury. Vocalist Mathias Lillmåns dissolves into reflective waters, where self-awareness and annihilation become indistinguishable.


"Now, I am the medium / I am the stream…
Drowning in argent colors / This vast bottomless ocean."
 

"Prophetical Mercury Implement" is the turning point in the album's narrative. It embodies the struggle between light and darkness, stagnation and progress, fate and free will.
 

"'The Prophetical Mercury Implement' is an existential realization", Lillmåns says. "I was exploring some very deep waters at some point, I could see the mercury dripping from my side, but still wanted more, searching for new dangerous currents to take me further.
 

"I just kept on feeding the destruction until one day I had reached some kind of a threshold. Even though this track is a view from a vast bottomless depth it also offers a glimpse of the other side, a promise of redemption and transcendence."

Weaving between chaotic black metal and dreamlike passages, "Prophetical Mercury Implement" surges forth as a towering demonstration of how ...and Oceans continue to evolve amidst the landscape of symphonic black metal. 

The video for "Prophetical Mercury Implement" was created by Aarni Visuals.

“The Regeneration Itinerary explores the interplay between darkness and light, chaos and order, spiritual and material realms, with each song embodying an experience for the mind and body, navigating a passage to the present moment,” explains Lillmåns.
 

“The album works like a guide,” he continues. “Teaching us that not everything can be defined as simply being ‘good’ or ‘bad’, ‘light’ or ‘dark’, ‘copper’ or mercury’, underscoring the perpetual dance of dualities in the human experience.”
 

Line-up:
Mathias Lillmåns - Vocals
Teemu Saari - Guitar
Timo Kontio - Guitar
Pyry Hanski - Bass
Antti Simonen - Keyboards
Kauko Kuusisalo - Drums

Production Credits:
Recorded at Inka Studio / SoundSpiral Audio, Orimattila, Finland.
Producer & Engineered by Juho Räihä.
Mixed & Mastered by Tore Stjerna at Necromorbus Studio,  Söderfors, Sweden.

Cover Art:
Adrien Bousson

Biography:
Spencer Grady

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

Follow ...and Oceans:
Bandcamp: https://andoceans.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/andoceans/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andoceans_official/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0rWmH68lIyVOGYhhvayFzu
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/and-oceans/32204550
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/11172
TIDAL: https://tidal.com/browse/artist/3565685

Earshot Unveils Exclusive Lyric Video for "Where Were You?” from Highly Anticipated New Album ​    

Hard rock veterans Earshot have unleashed an exclusive lyric video for their latest single, "Where Were You?” a gripping preview from their forthcoming 11-song studio album produced by Grammy-nominated producer Johnny K (Disturbed, Staind, Megadeth). The video debuted this past Monday, available only on the band’s official social media pages, and has already racked up thousands of views from eager fans.

 

Brimming with raw emotion and powerful instrumentation, "Where Were You?”captures Earshot’s signature dark, melodic intensity, offering a thrilling glimpse into what fans can expect from their long-awaited new album. The song also marks the first of many tracks to come co-written by frontman Wil Martin and guitarist Aaron Fink (Lifer, Breaking Benjamin)—a dynamic pairing of talent that blends their unique songwriting styles into an emotionally charged and sonically rich experience. This powerful collaboration is sure to excite both Earshot and old school Breaking Benjamin fans alike.

 

“Our fans have been waiting for a new album, and we couldn’t be more excited to share ‘Where Were You?’ as the first glimpse of this new chapter,” says Wil Martin. “We wanted the lyric video to be immersive, simple, and direct, and keeping it exclusive to our social media ensures that our most loyal fans experience it first.”

 

The release has already ignited a frenzy online, with fans flooding the comments section with praise and anticipation for the full album. With Johnny K’s masterful production and the powerhouse songwriting duo of Martin and Fink, this record is shaping up to be one of Earshot’s most compelling efforts yet.

 

Watch the Exclusive Lyric Video Now:

UPCOMING 2025 TOUR DATES:

4/24 - Austin, TX. -  COME AND TAKE IT LIVE!

4/25 - Houston, TX. - SAWYER PARK ICEHOUSE (FREE SHOW)

4/26 - San Antonio, TX. - FIESTA OYSTER BAKE (w/ SUGAR RAY, TONIC, & VERTICAL HORIZON)

8/14 - Glen Flora, WI. - NORTHWOODS ROCK RALLY

Follow Earshot:

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SWALLOW THE SUN Release “MelancHoly (Holy Edit)” Out Now + Visualizer

Today, Finnish doom metal legends SWALLOW THE SUN are back with a twist on their fan-favorite anthem, unveiling a growl-free version of “MelancHoly (Holy Edit)” from their highly anticipated digital deluxe edition album, 'Shining Dark Deluxe.' This special edition invites fans into a deeper, more atmospheric experience, showcasing unique interpretations of select studio tracks that capture the band’s signature melancholy and live energy.

Watch the Visualizer for "MelancHoly (Holy Edit)" Below:

SWALLOW THE SUN Claims Finnish Grammy Glory!

In a groundbreaking achievement, SWALLOW THE SUN has won their first-ever Finnish Grammy (Emma Gala Award) for Best Metal Album (2024) with their latest release, 'SHINING.' After two previous nominations, this well-deserved win marks a monumental milestone for the band, solidifying 'SHINING' as the Metal Album of the Year.

 

The band expresses their gratitude:

“A huge thank you to Backbone Management, Century Media Records, Dan Lancaster, Pasi, Aleksi, Markus, Jaani, and Juha Ruusunen for helping us reach this milestone. We’re also incredibly grateful to all of you who have supported us and listened to our music along the way, this means the world to us!”

More than two decades of despair, beauty, and heartache have not only shaped but fueled Finnish melancholy torchbearers, the chart-topping and Finnish Grammy winner SWALLOW THE SUN.

Formed in Jyväskylä in 2000, the quintet has enjoyed numerous fan-lauded music videos (10+ million YouTube views) and streaming dominance (50+ million Spotify plays), while also embarking on a four-continent, 900-show run over the course of their 25-year career.

Their new music, however, is the group’s first step on the new path to the unknown.

SWALLOW THE SUN are:

Juha Raivio - Guitar, Keys

Juho Räihä - Guitar

Mikko Kotamäki - Vocals

Matti Honkonen - Bass

Juuso Raatikainen - Drums

THE SPEAKER WARS Premieres the Video for “It Ain’t Eeasy”

Today, THE SPEAKER WARS, the Texas based band featuring ex-Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers drummer Stan Lynch, and guitarist/vocalist Jon Christopher Davis, premiere the second video from their self titled debut album for the track “It Ain’t Easy." 

The video was filmed in Denton, TX, by director Brad Osborne, who also directed their debut video for the track, “You Make Every Lie Come True." 

Watch the Music Video for “It Ain't Easy”  Below:

STAN LYNCH, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, long-time drummer and founding member of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, announces today the formation of THE SPEAKER WARS. After two decades of recording and touring multiple albums with The Heartbreakers, STANmoved to the other side of the recording console and shifted his focus to production and songwriting. Over the years, STAN has written and produced hits for artists in multiple genres, including the Eagles, Don Henley, Tim McGraw, The Mavericks, Ringo Starr, The Byrds, Toto, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds.

While writing in Nashville, a publisher introduced STAN to Texas singer-songwriter, Jon Christopher Davis, who was gathering material for a solo record on a major label. After accumulating an album’s worth of songs, Jon abandoned working on a solo record and the two decided to start a band to perform the newly created material. Adding Jay Michael Smith on guitar, Brian Patterson on bass, Steve Ritter on percussion, and Jay Brown on keyboards, THE SPEAKER WARS was born.

The band then headed into 5M Studios in Denton, TX, with co-producer Mike Pisterzi, and produced a full-length album. Upon hearing the material, Frontiers Records immediately signed the band, and their debut album is scheduled for release on May 30th.

STAN LYNCH says:

"After my 20-year tenure with the Heartbreakers, I got a second act writing and producing. It was educational beyond measure to learn how to create music from the other side of the glass. Around this time, I met Jon Christopher Davis in Nashville, who casually mentioned that we should start a band - so here I am - in THE SPEAKER WARS, and it's good to have my old job back. The guys in our new band know how to make great music, and I'm looking forward to another round.”

Pre-Order 'The Speaker Wars' HERE

THE SPEAKER WARS are:

Stan Lynch - Drums

Jon Christopher Davis - Vocals

Jay Michael Smith - Guitar

Brian Patterson - Bass

Steve Ritter - Percussion

Jay Brown - Keyboard

Novelists Release New Single "Say My Name" - LISTEN

The vibrant, innovative French metal band NOVELISTS share a new single and music video for "Say My Name," another standout track from their upcoming album "CODA." The single showcases a more emotional, poignant side of the album tracklist. The album is set to release on May 16, 2025 through the new record label, ACKOR Music, created by members of LANDMVRKS and NOVELISTS.

Watch below.

Pre-save the album here.

When asked about the single, Novelists say, "What if the last thing you ever said to someone was the one thing they refused to hear? We wrote 'Say My Name' during some of the most difficult yet tragically ordinary challenges one can experience. It is without a doubt one of our favourite songs on CODA.

ABOUT NOVELISTS:
Novelists are a female-fronted French metal band that has taken the global metalcore scene by storm with their unique blend of progressive and melodic elements. 

With a sound that defies boundaries, Novelists has carved out a distinct identity on the global metalcore stage, blending technical mastery with atmospheric depth and emotional resonance. Originally from Paris, the band has become known for genre-bending tracks like "Okapi" and "Prisoner," which fuse progressive metal, post-rock, and ambient influences into a style that's as intense as it is introspective.

Their exceptional musicianship is a defining characteristic, with intricate guitar work and progressive structures, particularly in Pierre Danel's and Florestan Durand's precise, virtuosic guitar solos. 

Their focus on technical detail and thoughtful song construction adds layers to their music that few bands in the genre achieve.

The band’s recent addition — Camille Contreras as lead vocalist has brought fresh energy and innovation to their sound, propelling Novelists in exciting new directions while staying true to their core identity. Currently on a world tour, including stops in Australia, Asia, Europe and North America supporting bands like NORTHLANE, PERIPHERY, TESSERACT, ERRA, and set to reach more audiences worldwide over the next seven months, Novelists are proving their commitment to connecting with fans across continents.

Known for intense and immersive live performances, Novelists deliver high-energy shows that showcase their technical prowess and emotional depth, creating a must-see experience. Their commitment to forward-thinking sound production further enhances their recordings and live shows, utilising modern audio techniques to craft an enveloping, multi-dimensional sonic landscape.

With a new album on the horizon and a lineup brimming with passion and innovation, Novelists continue to evolve, promising their fans a future filled with boundary-breaking sounds and authentic connections.

Calva Louise Announce New Album "Edge of the Abyss" + Drop New Single "Aimless"

WELCOME TO THE CALVA LOUISE UNIVERSE

The sprawling story of Calva Louise, the band whose members found each other from opposite corners of the world and whose combined influences and experiences, have created a myriad of captivating threads entwined into their existence.

Metal, punk, electronica, and art rock weave through grandiose narratives and cinematic storytelling with a mind-blowing visual delivery. Welcome to the Calva Louise Universe and the release of their new studio album, Edge of the Abyss, which was co-produced by Pendulum's Gareth McGrillen and will be released on July 11 via Mascot Records. The band has also revealed the video for the new single "Aimless" to celebrate the announcement. 

Watch it below.

"Aimless" is a reflective catharsis of human communication. Sometimes, it feels like we communicate in monologues where it feels impossible for someone to understand our point of view while simultaneously asking oneself: Do we act the same way towards others?

"The song deals with the fragility of our beliefs but at the same time with the importance of knowing our true essence and standing up for it," Calva Louise's Jess Allanic says.

Calva Louise are currently on tour with Bloodywood. Check out the remaining dates here.

You can trace the Calva Louise project —the "origin" story, if you will — back to 10-year-old Allanic, drawing in her home in Guarenas, on the outskirts of Caracas, Venezuela. There, the genesis of the idea for her story about a hidden world intertwined with our world, began.

The Edge of the Abyss sees characters traveling between different dimensions, with people who mysteriously resemble doubles of each of us, like shadows that seem to stalk us but who, in reality, seek to communicate. Who are these beings? What do they want from us? How can we reach them?

The incredible cinematic sci-fi videos for the album singles show different times and worlds where some characters have encounters with their 'doubles.' "W.T.F" is the prequel of the previous singles: "La Corriente" and "Under The Skin" — all VFX and directed by Jess.
  
Growing up during Venezuela's most disastrous economic and social crisis, the alternative scene was disappearing. She dreamt of living in the UK. Just before her 16th birthday, Allan made the courageous decision to move more than 7,500km from Caracas to Rouen in France — because it was close to the UK. She was to live in a convent, where she would be told off by nuns for playing guitar along to System of a Down in her bedroom.

Next door was a 1600s "Hogwarts" like school, where she met Alizon Taho. "I was focused on being in a band, and that's exactly when Jess arrived in my class,"  Alizon says.
 
They would travel to the UK to play shows with limited English and without knowing anyone. They took every experience presented to them — and the consequences that came with them. They took on jobs, stayed in garages, on sofas, and with "friends of friends." Robbed, scammed and taken advantage of, they stayed in £10 motels that were sometimes surrounded by rats. They would often have to move at very short notice. "I had one suitcase and my guitar," Jess says.

"Our album is called Edge of the Abyss because that's how we live. One misstep and everything could fall apart," Jess says. "I emigrated twice, so I've already had a culture shock twice. This hurts a little less because this is where I want to be. I have nowhere to go back to," she continues.
 
Drummer Ben Parker — who grew up in New Zealand and moved to the UK aged 14 — completed the line-up. They immediately built a captivating relationship. All three had moved to the UK from overseas and found each other.  
 
They built an impressive DIY spirit and formidable reputation on the UK live circuit through performances at Download, 2000Trees, a headline performance on the BBC Introducing Stage at Reading and Leeds festival, as well as tours with Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, Razorlight, Boston Manor, and Bloodywood. The US saw a co-headline tour with Vukovi and festival slots at Welcome to Rockville, So What?, Sonic Temple, Riot Fest, SXSW, and Shiprocked.

2023's independently released mixtape Over The Threshold saw Jess' creativity truly explode. It also caught the attention of Pendulum's Gareth McGrillen who went on to co-produce Edge of the Abyss.

They've picked up support from BBC Radio 1's Rock Show, Introducing Rock, Future Alternative, and Future Artists, Kerrang! Radio, Primordial, Metal Hammer, Rock Sound, Kerrang!, and Revolver, who delved into their multiple-worlds-spanning story.
 
The 10-year-old girl in Guarenas, drawing the first paintings of her sci-fi story, was linked by destiny with the young French child who was dreaming of forming a band and then, years later, had the chance to meet the New Zealander in London, who had picked up the sticks also aged 10, with the plan to be a great musician — they finally have found their way and their home together. Calva Louise, the British multi-cultural band, started with a vision that they passionately continue to grow, creating a fresh and unique experience with each release.

"Our willpower never dies, that's the thing. It's been hard learning every day, but look at the friendship we have. We say that it's like the path of the warrior," Jess exclaims.

CALVA LOUISE ARE:
Jess Allanic  —Vocals+ Guitar+ Keyboard
 Alizon Taho — Bass + Backing Vocals
Ben Parker — Drum + Backing Vocals

North Carolina Black Metal Outfits MO'YNOQ & UROCYON Announce Split EP 'Mo'ynoq X Urocyon Split 2025' - Out April 18th

Today, North Carolina Black Metal outfits MO'YNOQ and UROCYON are excited to announce their new split EP titled 'Mo'ynoq X Urocyon Split 2025,' slated for release on April 18th. To celebrate the announcement, MO'YNOQ has released the first single from the EP titled 'Hyperstitions' which is accompanied by a video, available to view below.

About the EP, MO'YNOQ shares:

"MO'YNOQ has been through the fire, and these tracks are the sound of us clawing our way out. It’s the most blistering, unrelenting music we’ve ever created—pure catharsis, forged in chaos."

In addition the EP announcement, MO'YNOQ and UROCYON have announced two hometowns release shows at Chapel of Bones in Raleigh, NC on April 25th and Static Age Records in Asheville, NC on April 26th.

Watch the Video for "Hyperstitions"

North Carolina-based black metal outfit MO'YNOQ has made a name for themselves by combining feral riffs with a uniquely humid atmosphere that draws listeners into a pummeling sonic labyrinth. Influenced by the likes of Ash Borer, Nachtmystium, and Krallice, the band weaves haunting narratives from which audiences struggle to escape.

Since the band’s inception in 2016, MO'YNOQ has had each release further their widespread acclaim with their latest record - 'A Place for Ash' (2022) ranking #9 on Rolling Stone’s Top 15 Metal Albums of the Year. MO'YNOQ has now prepared an exciting collaboration with Asheville-based UROCYON, another powerhouse in the North Carolina black metal scene. Slated for release April 25th 2025, the split features four exhilarating tracks that promise to carry their message far beyond the southern hills they call home.

'Mo'ynoq X Urocyon Split 2025' was recorded by Dave Kaminsky at Studio Wormwood in Asheville, NC, mastered by Ryan Williams, and pressed by Pour House Pressing in Raleigh, NC.

Pre-Order 'Mo'ynoq X Urocyon Split 2025' HERE

'Mo'ynoq X Urocyon Split 2025' Release Shows:

April 25th - Raleigh, NC - Chapel of Bones

April 26th - Asheville, NC - Static Age Records

MO'YNOQ are:

Dave Kaminsky - Guitar & Vocal

Justin Valletta - Drums

Donald Boyd - Guitar & Vocal

Devin Janus - Bass & Vocal

Swedish Experimentalists Gösta Berlings Saga Announce New Album "Forever Now" + Share "Through The Arches"

Fearlessly experimental, deliciously irreverent and defiantly unclassifiable for 25 years, Stockholm’s Gösta Berlings Saga have announced the release of Forever Now, their seventh studio album, out June 6 via Pelagic Records. The quintet haS also unveiled the first single and video "Through The Arches."

Watch the video for "Through The Arches" below. 

Pre-order Forever Now and stream the single here. 

"'Through the Arches' is GBS in 2025 — pure and amplified," states the band. "One of the first tracks completed for the new album, it packs all the classic GBS ingredients, but turned up a few notches. Melodic, cosmic, chaotic, euphoric — all in one track. The accompanying video, crafted by Martin Gustafsson, is a visual journey into the everlasting and beyond, perfectly capturing the song's essence."

A masterful collision of intricate songwriting, raw rock spontaneity and their signature disregard for genre limitations, Forever Now rests on no laurels; it's a driving continuation of a journey that suggests, even after two decades and counting, the band's best work may still be ahead of them.

On the new album, the band continues, "Super stoked to soon unleash Forever Now upon the world. It's an album we've put our heart, soul and every atom of our beings into. Written, recorded, mixed, and produced by ourselves, it fills us with great pride that even after 20+ years we still find joy, creativity and new ways to approach music. Forever Now is a journey in search of small fragments of eternity within the present moment - where time dissolves, and music becomes the gateway to the infinite."

Stockholm, the Saga began in 2000 with a creative spark keenly felt between keyboardist David Lundberg and drummer Alexander Skepp. Taking formative inspiration from the '60s jazz fusion improvisations of fellow Swedes Hansson & Karlsson, Gösta Berlings Saga broadened their sonic palette with the addition of bassist Gabriel Tapper and guitarist Mathias Danielsson before the release of their debut album Tid Är Ljud in 2006. Danielsson subsequently left the project to be replaced by Einar Baldursson, contributing to the darker and more complex sound of 2009's Detta Har Hänt, 2011's Glue Works and 2016's Sersophane.

The overt manipulation of sound and melody on this trio of early releases helped set Gösta Berlings Saga apart from the rest of the progressive pack, swerving easy cliché and navel-gazing nostalgia in favor of a fervently forward-thinking ethos. Undoubtedly influenced by the greats of prog, art-rock, electronica and the avant-garde, Gösta Berlings Saga have remained thrillingly impervious to categorization.

2017 saw another evolution within the band as Baldursson left to be replaced with Rasmus Booberg whilst percussionist and multi-instrumentalist Jesper Skarin also joined the ranks. Rejuvenated and revitalized, Gösta Berlings Saga’s subsequent albums, ET EX (2018) and Konkret Music (2020), introduced a whole new audience to the band's idiosyncratic fearless experimentation, breakneck rock 'n' roll infused with even more found sound electronics and sonic obscura. Uncompromising and utterly distinct, these albums solidified the band’s belief that staying true to their own artistic vision was always the only way forward.

Forever Now is 10 tracks of hand-crafted chaos that bear all the brilliance of Gösta Berlings Saga's 25 years of irreverent innovation. Entirely written, recorded, produced, and mixed by the band for the very first time, the album sees synthesizers and arpeggiated guitars spiral ever higher, colliding with helter skelter percussion and pulse-racing drums on the way, whilst the band's innate trust in each other and in their music form the propulsive core of a perpetual energy engine five years in the making.

Although not established as a concept album as such, personal tragedies during the early writing process ultimately left their mark. For a time the band tried to separate their collective creativity from the events of their private lives but, rather than grief and darkness making their presence felt, Gösta Berlings Saga built this album on the pursuit of the eternal — a euphoric glimpse beyond time, where music becomes a bridge between the present and what was and will be, echoing connections that never fade.

GÖSTA BERLINGS SAGA ARE:
Jesper Skarin — Percussion
Gabriel Tapper — Bass
David Lundberg — Keys
Rasmus Booberg — Guitars
Alexander Skepp — Drums

Doom Force KATLA Release Third Single "Grim Jesus" + Official Music Video

Sin, salvation, blasphemy — dive into the darkly provocative world of Danish doom force KATLA with their new single "Grim Jesus." 

The song is the third single to premiere from the three-headed Danish metal monster's unmissable debut album, Scandinavian Pain, out this Friday via Napalm Records!

After years of honing its colossal sound and live energy, the band delivers an unrelenting blend of raw emotion, gritty riffs, and subterranean sonic battery. Scandinavian Pain not only marks a new chapter for the band, but also reflects its rise to acclaim – from humble beginnings at Copenhell Festival to becoming a standout act in Denmark's heavy music underground.

"Grim Jesus" challenges faith and confronts inner demons, inviting listeners to reflect on their worth and dive deep into themes of overcoming inner darkness and rejecting oppressive systems, showcasing lyrics that resonate with the resilience of the human spirit.

Hallelujah!

Watch the official music video for "Grim Jesus" below.

KATLA on "Grim Jesus":

"As the album was progressing and the lyrical and musical thematics were taking shape, 'Grim Jesus' was created. It actually started off as a song about feeling worthless and was also the working title for a long time: 'Worthless.' On the lyrical side, we tried to keep it in the mental awareness/health realm, and therefore examined what is causing this feeling of being a no-one. KATLA's critique of the Christian church is no secret, and 'Grim Jesus' was discovered in the process of its creation to have a link to the inherent heavy weight from the Christian church to its followers, whether it be socially or culturally. In Denmark, we are pretty much born into Christianity, as we are a Christian nation, and with that feeling of guilt, shame and not fitting in if you don't submit to the Lord, it subconsciously makes you doubt yourself and your doings. Ironically, the church preaches that we should step in line, that we're all sinners and we have to obey and serve the priest and God, while they abuse children and have kept women oppressed for centuries. Asshole hypocrites."

Scandinavian Pain is a cathartic exploration of personal struggles, mental health, and societal critique. "Castle of Purity" is a searing anthem that calls out the abuse and hypocrisy in organized religion — a powerful statement about pushing back against injustice and finding strength in individuality. Produced by Lasse Ballade (known for his work with Solbrud, Alkymist, and Halshug), the record combines visceral sonic landscapes with a deeply personal narrative. Prepare to experience the raw power and unfiltered honesty of KATLA on Scandinavian Pain.

Scandinavian Pain also marks the debut of new KATLA bassist and vocalist Theis Thorgersen. His addition not only breathes renewed energy into the band itself, but imbues an evolved sound that is heavier, darker, and sharper than ever before. KATLA's meaningful yet uninhibited sound and high-energy live performances have positioned them as a force to be reckoned with.

KATLA says about the album: "Scandinavian Pain is an album about the shame of feeling depressed in a country that in many ways seems to be out of any misery or control of others. The inherent feeling of guilt, the despondent thoughts. The weight of cultural Christianity and being part of a system that is destroying both ours and other lives. It’s about watching the newest season of whatever decadent TV show is on while children are being murdered daily. All the songs are different, yet similar. This time, there’s an affirmation for you, who might need it, a story telling, a short grindy track, something with a blast beat, but of course also heavy sludgy doom. Welcome to the house of pain."

Pre-order your copy of Scandinavian Pain NOW.

KATLA IS:
Rasmus Bang — Drums + Vocals
Marc Lennart Christensen — Guitar
Theis Stenberg Thorgersen — Bass + Vocals

LUNA KILLS Unveil "WAVES" Video

Finland's electrifying alt-metal powerhouse LUNA KILLS continue their ascent with the release of their captivating new single "WAVES." Watch the video below.

 Taken from their upcoming album DEATHMATCH, set for release on April 4 via SharpTone Records, the track dives deep into the struggles of repetitive cycles, self-doubt, and the painful realization of misplaced trust. The song's stunning music video, which premiered exclusively on Finnish television MTV3's Levyraati last Friday, delivers a visually striking interpretation of the song's emotionally charged themes.

"We all have patterns we struggle to break, and 'WAVES' is about drowning in the same mistakes, searching for a way out," shares vocalist Lotta Ruutiainen. "The song is about believing in someone or something that constantly lets you down; yet being unable to walk away because it feels like giving up on something you've worked so hard for."

With "WAVES," LUNA KILLS masterfully blends soaring vocal melodies, crushing guitar riffs, and atmospheric production, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting new acts in the alt-metal scene. The track serves as the fourth single from DEATHMATCH, following the success of "LEECH," "sugar rush," and "slay ur enemies." It further sets the stage for what promises to be a defining album for the band.

ABOUT LUNA KILLS:
LUNA KILLS are, without a doubt, one of the most refreshing modern metal act in the scene, combining alternative and nu-metal vibes with electronics inspired by game soundtracks. Their frontwoman Lotta, with her jazz singing background and incredible fry scream vocals, brings the audience to their knees — unless they are speeding around in moshpits, as often witnessed in their fiery live shows. Even as newcomers, LUNA KILLS have already opened the door to their beloved gaming world as their music is featured in the hit mobile app Beatstar. The band, first formed in 2019, has now taken their first steps on European stages, gained the attention of multiple rock radios in their native Finland and are moving forward towards their first full-length album with SharpTone Records.

LUNA KILLS ARE:
Lotta Ruutiainen — Vocals
Samuli Paasineva — Guitar
Jimi Kinnunen — Drums
Lassi Peltonen — Bass