Reveal Records shares invigorating 'Laugh So Loud' single by Maximo Park's Duncan Lloyd, heralding new album

English songwriter-guitarist Duncan Lloyd presents his invigorating single 'Laugh So Loud', the first taste from his new 'Unwound' album, forthcoming via Reveal Records.

Featuring a guest appearance by Joe Boyer (Cloud Nothings, Autopolitan) and accompanied by an adrenaline-rush of a video, this song is about self-doubt and passing things off as being fine.

A critically acclaimed solo artist, Lloyd is the primary musician behind internationally renowned art-rockers Maximo Park and also a member and co-writer (with Sarah Suri) in the indie band Nano Kino. Through a career spanning over two decades, Duncan Lloyd is a Mercury Music Prize nominee, has won an NME award, had A-listed singles at BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music (including lyric of the year), and has seen success with worldwide platinum and gold selling records. His songs have featured on eight hit albums with Maximo Park, consistently charting in the Top 10 U.K.

"I wanted to hear something urgent yet melodic. Lyrically, it is about doubt. There is a lot of pretending things are fine and hiding from the reality of the world outside or not discussing the real problems publically for fear of reprisal, so itʼs a reaction to the sedentary state of mind," says Duncan Lloyd.  

"In public, all your secrets go to sleep etc. I lent my guitar to a friend and found it plugged into an old VOX amp one morning at the rehearsal room, the amp sounded so good that the song materialised as I played through it. It has a certain spirit akin to the early 90’s, heavy then it drops with a vocal on the bridge reminiscent of Midwest bands from a similar period. Featuring Joe Boyer (ex- Cloud Nothings / Autopolitan) on the other guitar."

Duncan Lloyd's new 12-track album 'Unwound' is the first studio album of new material that Lloyd is releasing via Reveal Records, his previous albums having been released by Warp Records and also independently. With cover artwork derived from Lloyd’s own paintings, this record weaves a unique musical maze of free and varied personal expression, deep and transient, spare, intense and urgent with a balance of grit, beauty and melody.

Partly recorded by Julie McLarnon (The Vaselines, Lankum, King Creosote, Jeffrey Lewis, Brigid Mae Power) at Analogue Catalogue Studios in Ireland and by Lloyd himself at his studio in Newcastle Upon Tyne, this album also features contributions by Maximo Park keyboardist Jemma Freese and drummer Tom English.

Writing, recording (and painting) under his own name over the last decade, the Derby-born songwriter received an enthusiastic message from UK indie label/manager Tom Rose of Reveal Records in 2019, suggesting a future collaboration on his solo works (Rose had been listening to Lloyd's 2019 album 'Outside Notion' whilst on tour with now label-mate Joan As Police Woman). Requesting Duncan sent everything he'd recorded to date in whatever form, reissues of Lloyd’s early solo albums followed. The colossal 31-track selected works collection 'Green Grows Devotion' came out in 2022, followed by 'Fun City', a trilogy of three EPs recorded in succession throughout 2024.

While 'Unwound' is very much an album with Duncan Lloyd stepping front and centre, his career is dotted with collaboration with various musicians and producers, including Paul Epworth (Bloc Party, Glass Animals, Rihanna), Gil Norton (The Pixies, Echo & The Bunnymen), Nick Launay (Nick Cave, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs), Ben Allen (Gnarls Barclay, Deerhunter), Rudimental, Dave Okumu, Batida and as part of Africa Express with legendary Afrobeat drummer Tony Allen.

As of May 6, 'Laugh So Loud' is available from fine digital music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. The full 'Unwound' album will be released everywhere on July 11th.

CREDITS
Music & lyrics written by Duncan Lloyd (Reveal Publishing)
Duncan Lloyd - vocals, guitars, bass, piano, synth & drum machine
Tom English - drums, percussion (all tracks except 8, 11 & 12)
Andrew Mills - bass & synth (tracks 4 & 5)
Jemma Freese - backing vocals (track 2)
Joe Boyer - guitar & noise (tracks 2 & 7)
Recorded & Mixed by Duncan Lloyd (except 4 & 5) at The Dagda Rooms
Tracks 4 & 5 recorded & mixed by Julie McLarnon at Analogue Catalogue
Guitars on tracks 2 & 7 recorded by Joe Boyer in Cleveland, Ohio
Produced by Duncan Lloyd
Mastered by Carl Saff at Saff Mastering, Chicago
Released by Reveal Records
Barcode 0726529875607    
Catalogue no. REVEAL204
Cover art and layout by Duncan Lloyd
'Laugh So Loud' video directed & edited by JTW
Super-8 footage by Freya Frenesi
Photography by Yuka JTW

Keep up with Duncan Lloyd
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Apple Music | Spotify | Press contact

Keep up with Reveal Records
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Soundcloud | Press contact

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Mawiza Announce New Album ÜL

Like a smoke signal, over the past decade, Mawiza have risen as a guiding force for indigenous metal. By incorporating native instruments, shamanic chanting and tribal rhythms into their contemporary influences, the band represent both the ancestral and modern sides of Mapuche culture. Their fresh yet timeless take on groove metal has won  them a Chilean Grammy along with the respect of scene elders like Mercyful Fate, Mastodon, Slipknot and Joe Duplantier from Gojira, who's featured on their upcoming new album.

Today, Mawiza are officially announcing their third full-length ÜL by releasing a stunning video for the album's lead single and opening track. "Wingkawnoam" marches to an industrial beat, but this band of modern-day warriors are guided by the dreams of their indigenous land.   

"ÜL means 'chant'", Mawiza says. "The album represents the voice of the land, the origin of feeling, the first call to connect with emotions. It is the part of the spirit that, for a few seconds, becomes one with the wind. It's a force we can hear, resonate, communicate with and return to". 
 
Watch the video for "Wingkawnoam” - Below:

ÜL comes out July 18 on Season of Mist.

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

Mawiza would like to thank our Mapuche community Ngillatuwe Maipu for welcoming them during the video shoot for "Wingkawnoam". Their guidance was essential. 

The video for "Wingkawnoam" was directed by  Andrés Hetzler (@andreshetzler).

"I have been working with Mawiza for several years," Andrés says. "It's always an honor to continue our collaboration. Their message deserves a strong and powerful visual. 

"For this video, the band wanted to bring the history of the Mapuche people to a new audience. It shows how important political decisions were resolved in Mapuche culture through a game of palin.

"I proposed to integrate the band around the bonfire of a ruka, as a symbol for oral storytelling, as this is where Mapuche people gather to remember their history".  

Additional production credits
Producer/Art Director - Unai García
Cinematography - Soledad Gatica
1AC - Alejandro Courbis
2AC/Gaffer - Simón Jorquera
Focus Puller - Josefina Berenguela
1st Assistant Director - Carlos Elgueta
Production Assistant - Beatriz Cañas
Photography by Samantha D. Silva & Kata Ulloa
Makeup/Styling by Polvimkp

Ñizol Palife - Ricardo Herrera, Kurra
Patiru - Rodrigo Rojas
Kona - Pablo Ramírez

Pu Palife
Gómez Ricardo Herrera
Esteban Nahuelcheo
Héctor Olivares
Mathias Ferreyra
Fabían Flores
Marcos Soto
Diego Díaz Tell
Vicente Díaz Tell
Pedro Parra

Lineup
Awka - Lead vocals & rhythm guitar
Karü - Lead guitar & backing vocals
Zewü - Bass & backing vocals
Txalkan - Drums & percussion

Guest musicians
Fabiola Hidalgo (Liquen) contributes vocals to "Wingkawnoam", "Pinhza Ñi pewma", "Ngulutu" and "Mamüll reke"

Joe Duplantier (Gojira) contributes vocals to "Ti Inan Paw-Pawkan"

Recording Studio
Estudio del Sur in Chile

Producer
Pancho Arenas

Sound & Mixing Engineer
Pancho Arenas

Mastering Studio
West West Side Music

Mastering Engineer
Alan Douches

Cover Art
Kata Ulloa
 

Booking information
 Europe: juan@thatmusicagency.com
 Rest of the World: unai@cowboymusic.agency

 Pre-order & Pre-save
https://orcd.co/mawizaul
 
Follow Mawiza
Bandcamp: https://mawizakvlt.bandcamp.com
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mawizakvlt
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/mawizakvlt
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mawizakvlt
Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oJP24bXA2fbdVmNGNmCtt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mawizakvlt
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mawiza/1653435953

Follow Season Of Mist:
Online: http://www.season-of-mist.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/seasonofmistofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seasonofmistofficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SeasonofMist

Hiroe Share Video for "Dancing at the End of the World" Video From "Wield" Out June 20

Hiroe, the new darlings of the American post-rock underground, have released the second single "Dancing at the End of the World" from their debut album, Wield, out June 20 via Pelagic Records.

Stream "Dancing at the End of the World" here.

Watch the video below. 

 Pre-order Wield here. 

Both powerfully melodic and heavy, Wield shows the Philadelphia-based quintet mastering its craft of creating compelling melodies that sound larger than life.

On "Dancing at the End of the World," the band comments, "Though seemingly contrasting, 'dancing' and 'the end of the world' are brought together to symbolize our shared human capacity to transform pain and vulnerability into something profound and meaningful when facing overwhelming adversity. 'Dancing at the End of the World' represents an act of defiant optimism to find hope in the face of hopelessness. It's a conscious choice to find light in darkness, and to not to be consumed by despair, even when all hope seems lost, even when it feels like the end of the world."

2022 saw Hiroe burst onto the scene with an explosive debut EP full of soaring anthems and sublime soundscapes. Combining the sonic expansiveness of Deftones with the dynamic heaviness of bands like Isis and Caspian, Hiroe immediately already figured out how to make the most majestic sounding post-rock early in their career. 

"Our first release, Wrought, was a statement of creation," explains principal songwriter and guitarist Eric Kusanagi.
 
For the recording of Wield, Jill Paslier moved from bass to guitars, with Brian Kong (guitars), Jon Seiler (bass) and Dan Sagherian (drums) joining to complete the lineup. Produced once more by Mario Quintero (Spotlights), Wield capitalizes on everything the band learned in the creation of its predecessor, adding to it a new focus on textural intricacies and compositional detail.
 
"We wanted to show a larger range of musical themes on this record," continues Kusanagi. "You'll hear us dive into some synth work, some piano work, some really interesting effects that Mario helped us dial up." 

As a result, Wield packs in a huge range of details, which reveal themselves over repeated listens. 
 
Nevertheless, Wield is still an affair of instant gratification for fans of guitar driven post-rock. From the soaring leads of "Tides" to the epic finale of "I've Been Waiting For You All My Life," Hiroe show they've upped their game in every department, but especially that which tugs at your heartstrings.

Wield presents the brave new future we all need in these confusing times. A new American frontier on which we can build our wildest dreams and our most daring ambitions.

HIROE ON TOUR:
6/6 — Baltimore, MD — Monument City Brewing
6/7 — Washington, DC —The Pocket
6/13 — Brooklyn, NY — Gold Sounds
6/14 — Boston, MA — Deep Cuts
6/20 — Harrisburg, PA — JB Lovedraft’s
6/21 — Lancaster, PA  — The Upside
6/27 — Philadelphia, PA — Kung Fu Necktie
6/28 — Pittsburgh, PA — Ormsby's
7/23 — Indianapolis, IN — Black Circle (Post-Fest Pre-Show)

GAUPA - Release Video For New Single 'Ten Of Twelve' + Announce New Mini-Album "FYR"

Acclaimed progressive stoner rock powerhouse GAUPA have released a video for their brand new single, 'Ten Of Twelve', which serves as another appetizer for the group's upcoming 4-track mini-album FYR, due out digitally on July 4th via Nuclear Blast Records and Magnetic Eye Records, who will handle the physical release. FYR includes the band's previous single, 'Heavy Lord', which was unveiled in December 2024 and met with high praise, while Vinyl and CD editions also feature the physical-formats-only track 'Sömnen / Febersvan (Live at Monkey Moon Studios, 2023)'.

Since the release of their self-titled EP in 2018, Sweden’s GAUPA - which translates as ‘lynx’ in English - have continued to pave new ground within the stoner and psychedelic scene, building their own unique cosmos defined by enchanting lyrical surrealism and mind-altering sound.

In 2020, their debut album Feberdröm pushed them into the international spotlight with its outstanding blend of progressive metal, doom, stoner and folk, steered by the entrancing vocal of frontwoman Emma Näslund. Just one year later, they found their label home at Nuclear Blast Records.

Following the arrival of 2022’s Myriad, with the track 'Exoskeleton' reaching over a million streams on Spotify (the EP’s Febersvan now has over 4 million), GAUPA went on to deliver countless unforgettable performances with appearances at festivals including Sweden Rock, Hellfest, Wacken, Mystic and Desertfest, as well as on tours with  heavyweights such as Uncle Acid And The Deadbeats, Blood Ceremony and Graveyard.

Now, they’ve reached a turning point in their journey. After former co- guitarist Daniel Nygren left in 2024 to focus on family life, GAUPA found themselves at a standstill, having to relearn how to orchestrate the band without one of its core members. In the summer, they began writing their first full offering in three years, a four-track mini album titled FYR, a play on words with multiple translations meaning “lighthouse”, “to set something on fire” as well as the number “four” in Swedish.

The four-track mini album marks GAUPA’s fourth release, as well as the start of their next chapter as a four-piece band. However, despite their newly slimmed-down line-up, FYR is anything but slight; with the help of new mixing engineer Karl Daniel Lidén, it serves as their heaviest material to date. Recorded in the autumn of 2024 in Svenska Grammofonstudion, Göteborg and Estethuset studios, Falun, FYR is a genre-bending journey through enthralling psychedelia, groove-laden stoner rock and heavy prog metal.

Showcasing more of Näslund’s playfully perplexing and surreal lyricism, FYR loosely explores the concept of time, “what is real, what is not, and what is a dream”, additionally inspired by science fiction novels, nature and animals.

Later this year, Gaupa will continue to cement themselves as live extraordinaires, playing festivals such as Stoomfest in the UK, Krach Am Bach in Germany and Motocultor in France.

Listen to GAUPA's brand new single 'Ten Of Twelve' below!

LISTEN TO THE SINGLE 'TEN OF TWELVE':
https://gaupa.bfan.link/ten-of-twelve

PRE-ORDER/PRE-SAVE THE NEW MINI ALBUM FYR:
https://gaupa.bfan.link/fyr

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR 'TEN OF TWELVE' BELOW;

WARRANT’S 1995 RELEASE ULTRAPHOBIC IS CELEBRATING ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY AND WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST TIME ON 180G VINYL

Warrant was formed in 1984 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, and experienced success from 1989 to 1996 with five albums reaching international sales of over 10 million. The band first came into the national spotlight with their double platinum debut album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich (1989) and one of its singles, "Heaven", which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The band's success continued in the early 1990s with the double platinum album Cherry Pie(1990), which provided the hit song of the same name.

In 1992, Warrant released their third album, the critically acclaimed Dog Eat Dog. The record achieved only moderate commercial success compared with the first two albums but still sold over 500,000 copies reaching Gold status and charting at No. 25 on the US Billboard charts. The band's fourth album Ultraphobic produced by a returning Beau Hill (Alice Cooper, Ratt, etc…) was released in March 1995 and, featured the singles "Family Picnic", "Followed" and the ballad "Stronger Now".

Watch “Family Picnic” Below:

Now to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Ultraphobic it has been remastered and will be released on vinyl for the first time, along with an accompanying CD. The vinyl will be 180g available in both Orange Swirl and Black. There will be a limited amount of CD/LP bundles with a signed print by original members Erik Turner and Jerry Dixon while supplies last.

Pre-order Ultraphobic on CD and LP: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/reissues/warrant

For more information, visit

www.dekoentertainment.com

Deko Entertainment–Art Has Value

GREYWIND Releases Vengeful Condemnation of Toxic Friendships With New Single ‘I.K.A.M.F.’ + Music Video

Today, Irish brother-sister duo GREYWIND continue their bold new era with the release of their explosive new single, “I.K.A.M.F.” Following their storming return with “Acid Rain” a few weeks ago, this latest track channels pure rage and catharsis into a furious emo anthem that refuses to hold back. The new track is accompanied by a music video, available to view below.

Steph O’Sullivan shares:

“This song is about finally getting rid of people who I thought were ‘friends.’ It’s our revenge song. People who I thought were my friends in the past were never supportive of me being in a band and it always made me feel like I was crazy for wanting to live my dreams. There’s been too many times where I’ve kept friendships just because I felt like I had to or I was too scared to stand up for myself, but this song is the complete release of all of that built up hurt and rage. I know when they hear it they’ll know it’s about them, which makes me love the song even more.”

Watch the Music Video for "I.K.A.M.F."

“Acid Rain” found success on the Kerrang! Chart and has been spun on BBC Radio 1’s Rock Show and more. Its cinematic music video (Quentin Tarant-emo, anyone?!) has racked up over 60,000 views in just a few weeks. GREYWIND’s new material is tailor-made for festival stages—and good thing, because they’re headed to Slam Dunk Festival this very month. They’ve also announced a clutch of headline dates around the festival. See below for full details, and get ready to enter their universe and sing (or emote) along.

Inspired by great emo pop originators like Jimmy Eat World, Fall Out Boy and My Chemical Romance, GREYWIND are on a mission to bring the genre into the future with an insatiable energy and armed with a never-ending supply of hooks. The duo’s flair for the dramatic and knack for an earworm melody is seeing them build their own musical world, which they welcome you to be part of.

GREYWIND Live:

May 21, 2025 – Nottingham, Bodega (Headline)

May 22, 2025 – Birmingham, The Flapper (Headline)

May 24, 2025 – Hatfield, Slam Dunk Festival (South) @ Hatfield Park

May 25, 2025 – Leeds, Slam Dunk Festival (North) @ Temple Newsam

May 26, 2025 – Bristol, The Louisiana (Headline)

Buy Tickets HERE

DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG Release New Single "Time To Listen"

With “It Takes Six To Rock!” - the core message of their enthusiastically received latest single- still echoing in everyone’s heads, DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG strike again. Only one month after "It Takes Two To Tango," they’ve shortened the wait for their upcoming album Babylon, set for release in October 2025 on Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). The second new track, "Time To Listen," cranks up the anticipation even more and delivers another high-energy preview of what fans can look forward to.

 

The band describes the song as follows: “‘Time To Listen’ is an up-tempo song that once again shines with DATOG’s typically diversified lead vocals. A soaring guitar riff paves the way for a powerful Udo performance, accompanied by Peter’s harmony vocals and continues with Manuela’s sustained two-part vocals. The chorus, with its convincing power casts a spell over everyone. Here also, Mathias’ guitar solo is a marvel of ingenuity that ignores all convention and whips through the musical realms in an unconventional manner. The compact and powerful ending is just as uncompromising as the beginning of the song.”

 

With "Time To Listen," DATOG once again highlight their unique identity and their commitment to making bold musical statements - energetic, authentic, and with a signature sound that’s instantly recognisable.

 

It’s time to listen - and time to rock!
 

Watch the music video Below:

Stream "Time To Listen": https://datog.rpm.link/timetolistenPR

About DATOG

DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (DATOG) was originally launched in 2020 as a one-off charity project, but quickly developed a momentum of its own and formed into a band consisting of Udo Dirkschneider (vocals; ACCEPT/U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER), Peter Baltes (bass, vocals; ACCEPT/U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER), Stefan Kaufmann (guitar; ACCEPT/U.D.O.), Mathias “Don” Dieth (guitar; SINNER/U.D.O.), Sven Dirkschneider (drums; U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER) and Manuela “Ella” Bibert (vocals). Between 2020 and 2021 their first three singles attracted a lot of attention, whereupon the band wrote more songs and recorded their debut album. With a unique vocal concept of three voices, powerful riffs and stylistic complexity, DATOG combine classic heavy metal with a modern, powerful production.

 

DATOG are:

Udo Dirkschneider | lead vocals

Peter Baltes | bass, lead & backing vocals

Manuela “Ella” Bibert | lead & backing vocals, key instruments

Stefan Kaufmann | guitars, backing vocals

Mathias “Don” Dieth | guitars, backing vocals

Sven Dirkschneider | drums, backing vocals

Eric Church's 'Evangeline vs. The Machine' Earns Resounding Critical Acclaim

With his bold new project Evangeline vs. The Machine out now, Eric Church is once again drawing widespread praise from critics and fans alike for challenging conventions and standing firm in his commitment to artistry. Anchored by the 10-time GRAMMY nominee’s uncompromising vision and genre-defying songwriting, the album is being hailed as one of the most powerful statements of his singular career:

Alongside the release, Church also premiered the official music video for current single “Hands of Time,” already climbing the Top 30 at country radio after arriving with a personal-best 135 first-week stations. The official music video served as an introduction to a series of illustrated companion videos for each song on the album, offering an added element to the artistic mission statement of the project.
 
Church will also bring Evangeline vs. The Machine to the ACM Awards live on Prime Video this Thursday, May 8 at 8 p.m. ET, before bringing the next chapter of his critically acclaimed live show to fans in arenas coast to coast with his Free the Machine Tour. Tickets to most shows are available to the general public beginning this Friday, May 9 at 10 a.m. local time (with the Philadelphia date on sale May 16).
 
For more information, visit EricChurch.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter/X @ericchurch and Instagram@ericchurchmusic.

Maddox Batson’s FIRST DANCE Extends with Deluxe, THE AFTER PARTY, Out Now

Maddox Batson’s 10-song First Dance (The After Party) is officially available and includes three new songs: “I Need A Truck,” “Somewhere South” and “2 Feet.” Listen HERE via Prosper Entertainment / Warner Records.
 
“Last week at Stagecoach, Jelly Roll gave me some great advice. He said, ‘the next time you walk on stage, just walk slow and take it all in,’” shares the 15-year-old burgeoning country singer/songwriter/performer. “It’s been a whirlwind, and I’m so grateful to all the fans who take the time to listen to these songs, learn all the words and share them. Hearing you sing them back when they aren’t even out yet is beyond incredible, and I promise you, I am taking it all in with y’all!”
 
The deluxe EP follows Batson’s announcement of the I Need A Truck Tour, which kicks off on September 7 in Richmond, Virginia and features 29 dates across the United States.
 
“This tour is going to be so sick,” Batson continues. “We’re already dreaming up production design and ways to make it really special. Can’t wait to see you all again!” 
 
The music video for “I Need A Truck” was filmed earlier this year in California and is set for release today at 3 pm ET, directed by Jake The Shooter. It’s the latest release and written by Batson with Ashley Gorley, Hunter Phelps and David Garcia, who also produced the track, that is already a fan-favorite. 
 
The Alabama raised, Nashville born teen blends country and pop with heartfelt vocals, which is why Forbes declared that “it’s not only his lyrics and relatable subject matter that’s captured the hearts of young fans, it’s his engaging, high-energy personality that shines through every live performance, music video, and interaction with everyone he meets.” 
 
After making his Grand Ole Opry debut in March and appearing at Stagecoach Music Festival in April, Batson will join Lainey Wilson's Whirlwind Tour for select dates in September and October including Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. 

Dates and venues for Maddox Batson’s I Need A Truck Tour:
September 7 – Richmond, Virginia @ The National 
September 14 – Oxford, MS @ The Lyric
September 17 – Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
September 19 – Jacksonville, FL @ Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
September 20 – LaGrange, GA @ Sweetland Amphitheater
September 21 – Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues
September 23 – Columbia, SC @ The Senate
September 24 – Greenville, NC @ State Theatre
September 26 – Greensboro, NC @ Piedmont Hall
September 27 – Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore Charlotte
September 28 – Norfolk, VA @ The NorVa
September 30 – Lexington, KY @ Manchester Music Hall
October 1 – Knoxville, TN @ The Mill & Mine
October 4 – Fayetteville, AR @ JJ's Live
October 5 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Tower Theater
October 7 – Kansas City, MO @ The Truman
October 9 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
October 10 – Des Moines, IA @ Wooly's
October 12 – Omaha, NE @ SteelHouse
October 14 – Grand Rapids, MI @ Elevation
October 21 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE
October 22 – Philadelphia, PA @ Brooklyn Bowl
October 24 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
October 25 – Wallingford, CT @ The Dome at Oakdale
October 26 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
October 28 – Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
October 29 – Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore Silver Spring
November 1 – Brandon, MS @ City Hall Live
November 2 – Birmingham, AL @ Avondale Brewing Company
 
Previously Announced 2025 Shows:
May 18 || New York, NY || Irving Plaza (rescheduled)*      
June 28 || Fairfield, CA || Vineyard Jam 2025
July 20 || Valparaiso, IN || Porter County Fair
Aug 10 || West Chester Township, OH || Voices of America Country Music Fest
Sept 11 || Baton Rouge, LA || Raising Cane’s River Center^
Sept 12 || Baton Rouge, LA || Raising Cane’s River Center^
Sept 13 || Bossier City, LA || Brookshire Grocery Arena^
Oct 2 || Nashville, TN || Bridgestone Arena^
Oct 16 || St. Louis, MO || Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre^
Oct 17 || Rosemont, IL || Allstate Arena^
Oct 18 || Saint Paul, MN || Xcel Energy Center^
*SOLD OUT

About Maddox Batson:
Maddox Batson navigates the world with wisdom and wit far beyond his 15 years. After the Nashville-born, Alabama-based songwriter began gaining notoriety covering songs from Zach Bryan, Red Clay Strays, and more, he started to write his own songs. Thanks to early singles like “Tears In The River” and “I Wanna Know,” Batson quickly showed that he wasn’t only a star at covering country hits, but an excellent writer of his own home-cooked cuts – a practice he saw first-hand as a co-writer on Lana Del Rey and Quavo’s smash hit collaboration, “Tough.”
 
With the arrival of his latest singles, “Girl In Green” and “I Need A Truck” off his May 2 deluxe EP and his EP  First Dance (The After Party), Batson is ready to show the world what he can create, all while embarking on sold-out live shows across the country and making debut appearances at Stagecoach and the Grand Ole Opry. Life is moving fast for the multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar & mandolin), who has fully embraced his next- up status in country-pop music. More at MaddoxBatson.com. 

"Savage New Times" by INCITE

Phoenix-based groovers and thrashers INCITE present their most ferocious incarnation in the forthcoming full length, Savage New Times set for release on August 15, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music. A powerhouse of modern thrash metal, Savage New Times encapsulates the pure nature of INCITE instilled with their unyielding drive and years of dedication to honing their sound. 

Ever since the beginning, INCITE have been fiercely devoted to crafting their distinctive sound, and making their mark. Since 2009's debut, The Slaughter, each subsequent release demonstrated the band's unceasing efforts as each offering sought to push their own personal creative boundaries ever further. Beyond the studio walls, the live stage is at the heart of INCITE. Ruthless touring schedules have seen the band sharing stages with the likes of DEVILDRIVER and SIX FEET UNDER, and attaining sets before crowds at festivals such as Bloodstock and Heaven and Hell. Their journey has taken INCITE tread across continents - far reaches around the globe from audiences in Russia and Australia, to festivals in South America. 

The band's line-up is a testament to their success. Band founder and frontman Richie Cavalera, as the stepson of metal legend Max Cavalera, brought not just a legendary name, but a fresh, raw edge to his vocals that quickly became key to the band's signature sound. Members Lennon Lopez on drums and EL on bass have been instrumental in shaping the band's rhythmic backbone for over a decade. Now, in this next chapter, new guitarist Layne Richardson brings a dynamic and fresh input to both the creative process and live stage. 

A formidable sonic force in the thrash metal scene, INCITE's fierce and unforgiving music not only continues to prevail but is elevated through their growth. INCITE will stop at nothing in striving to attain their most powerful version of themselves, and in Savage New Times they present a truly impressive and visceral sound. From the monumental pace of the album's aggressive opener "Lies" and the intense energizing rhythms of "Just a Rat" to the brutal groove driven "No Mercy No Forgiveness" and dark bloodthirsty title track, Savage New Times is a captivating display of power.

About INCITE:
Founded in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2004 by frontman Richie Cavalera, INCITE blends groove and thrash metal with a raw, relentless edge. With Lennon Lopez on drums and EL on bass, the band has honed its unyielding sound across multiple albums, evolving with each release. Their punishing intensity is amplified by producer Steve Evetts (THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN, HATEBREED and mixer Arthur Rizk (SOULFLY, MUNICIPAL WASTE), while striking artwork by Marcelo Vasco (SLAYER, KERRY KING) captures their ferocity. Known for their relentless touring, Incite has conquered stages worldwide, sharing bills with DEVILDRIVER and SIX FEET UNDER, and proving their grit—like driving 500 miles through a blizzard to make a show. The addition of guitarist Layne Richardson has injected fresh energy, elevating both their live performances and songwriting. With sheer determination and raw talent, Incite has carved out a place in modern thrash, dominating every stage with their unbreakable, unforgiving sound.

INCITE is: 
Vocals - Richie Cavalera
Guitar - Layne Richardson 
Bass - EL
Drums - Lennon Lopez

Credits:
Recorded with producer Steve Evetts at Bell House Studios
Mixed by Arthur Rizk 
Artwork by Marcelo Vasco 

HORRENDA Releases Single "Nun's Tears" Ahead Of Think On Your Sins Release Next Week

Irish blackened extreme metal force HORRENDA has released their searing new single "Nun’s Tears", the final harbinger of chaos before the arrival of their anticipated full-length album, Think On Your Sins, out May 9th via Fiadh Productions.

A tortured invocation drenched in religious decay, "Nun’s Tears" distills the band’s signature blend of raw black metal filth, death-laced fury, and nihilistic punk vitriol into a track that feels like a cathedral set ablaze. Shrieking guitars scrape against walls of blast beats, while Arron "Nomad" O'Shaughnessy channels anguish and blasphemy in equal measure,  a vocal performance equal parts exorcism and execution.

Frontman Darragh "Outis" O'Connor states, “"Nun’s Tears” is dark, raw, and unapologetic ballad, one of our heaviest tracks to date. The video plunges into Gustave Doré’s haunting vision of Dante’s nine circles of Hell, as Horrenda and Roman poet Virgil guide you through corrupt institutions, crises of faith, and the blackened depths of human nature."

With Think On Your Sins, HORRENDA doesn’t merely perform extreme metal, they embody it. The album is a fevered meditation on the sins of empire, religious trauma, and the scorched ruins of national identity. Expect no redemption. Only wrath.
 

About HORRENDA:

HORRENDA is an experimental blackened extreme metal band from Dublin, Ireland, formed in 2015 by Darragh “Outis” O'Connor. Known for their complex compositions and thematic depth, HORRENDA combines elements of black, death, and ambient metal to explore the darker aspects of human history and psychology. With a growing following and a reputation for explosive live performances, HORRENDA is poised to become a significant force in the global metal scene.

HORRENDA is: 

  • Darragh "Outis" O'Connor – Guitars, Studio Backing Vocals

  • Arron "Nomad" O'Shaughnessy – Lead Vocals

  • Keith "Donn" Smith – Bass

  • Mark "Morrdok" O'Brien – Guitars

  • Cormac "Desolatus" Jordan – Guitars

  • Matthew "Dearg" McKenna – Drums
     

Connect with HORRENDA:

Renowned NYC artist-producer Charlie Nieland announces new EP, while unleashing stellar first single 'Drown'

NYC-based producer indie music veteran Charlie Nieland presents his new single 'Drown', a stunning reverb-laced offering and the first taste of his forthcoming 'The Ocean Understands' EP, set for release on June 20. The expansive and visceral music video was directed by NYC-based multi-faceted artist Hypnodoll.

"The track 'Drown' was inspired by Monique Vescia's book 'Hole In The Sky', which I read for the Bushwick Book Club songwriter series in 2021. It depicts a dark world, where an authoritarian won the US presidential election of 2020. So I made this mythical tale from the past, told in the future, where all the stories are jumbled up - a celebration of destruction," says Charlie Nieland. 

"Of course, it all feels quite prescient as we sift through our present wreckage, searching for grace in the violent forces underneath. It's a white-hot psychedelic siren song with an oceanic undertow."

It's been four years since Nieland released his 2021 widely acclaimed ‘Divisions’ with its sweeping melodies and restless rhythms. Renowned for tastefully blending post punk, dream pop and progressive rock, he has been writing, playing and producing music for decades, with a focus on the atmospheric and the imaginative.

Nieland’s musical backstory is extensive, having played dream pop with Her Vanished Grace for over 20 years before establishing himself as a solo artist with a mix of nuanced songwriting and sonic exploration, initially releasing 'Ice Age' (2014) and 'Hopeful Monsters' (2016). He is currently half of the literature-inspired songwriting and performing duo Lusterlit with Susan Hwang and produces and participates in the podcast 'An Embarrassment of Prog'. 

Along the way, Charlie wrote and produced material with such notable artists as Debbie Harry, Rufus Wainwright, Dead Leaf Echo, Blondie and Scissor Sisters. He scored the feature film 'The Safety of Objects' (starring Glenn Close), the pilot episode of 'The L Word' on Showtime and the VH-1documentary 'NY77: The Coolest Year in Hell'. Charlie was awarded a Gold record (UK) for his production work on Blondie's 'Greatest Hits Sight & Sound' and achieved a Top 10 Billboard Dance Chart Position with Debbie Harry's single 'Two Times Blue', which he co-wrote and produced.

Charlie Nieland shares his impression of the accompanying video: "With its mind-melting imagery, the video for 'Drown', created by NYC multimedia artist Hypnodoll, is beautiful and deranged. She conjures storytelling just out or rational reach, playing tag with the ancient and futuristic in a way that perfectly compliments the song. Collaborating with her is such a thrill".

As of April 29, 'Drown' is available from fine digital music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. 'The Ocean Understands' EP, now available for pre-order directly from the artist, will be released on June 20.

CREDITS 
Music & Lyrics written by Charlie Nieland
Recorded at Saturation Point Studios (Brooklyn, NY)
from January 2023 to April 2025

'Elegy' recorded live at KGB Bar, NYC, October 3rd, 2021
Charlie Nieland - guitars, basses, keyboards, percussion, vocals
Billy Loose - drums

Dan McAssey - guitar on 'Shame'
Produced, recorded, mixed & mastered by Charlie Nieland
Cover Art by Hypnodoll
© 2025 Athame Music
'Drown' video directed By Hypnodoll™
Photography by Alice Teeple
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR


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Britain's DRAGON WELDING shares 'Start Believing, Start Living The Lie' from fourth album 'The Naughty Step'

UK electro noise-pop duo Dragon Welding presents 'Start Believing, Start Living The Lie', along with a new video filmed in locations from Romford to Manchester. In contrast to the visuals for the more sedate and introverted single 'Hiding Things For Fun', here Dragon Welding captures the raw energy explosion of this most frenetic end of the album’s scale.

Dragon Welding is Andrew Golding, multi-instrumentalist and co-founder of Essex-based indie noise-pop legends The Wolfhounds, and vocalist Nick Cockshott (formerly of leftfield indie rockers The Spores and The Keatons). Initially joining Golding for a one-off show in 2023, they soon began working together on new material, resulting in the 2024 single 'These Are Dangerous Times', a radical electronic reworking of Dragon Welding's debut release five years prior, marking Dragon Welding's rebirth as a group.

'Start Believing, Start Living The Lie' challenges the accepted truths of modern life and invites the listener to see them for what they really are. With so many meaningless job titles out there, it’s small wonder so many struggle to find fulfilment. "Why not just go for a walk somewhere pretty then sit down and read a good book? Not everything happens on screens," says Golding.

Dragon Welding's fourth album 'The Naughty Step' (out now via Dimple Discs) is the first record to feature Nik Cockshott. With a consistent voice, a solid focus on idiosyncratic and dark electronic backing, augmented by an increasing plethora of obtuse instrumentation, unpretentious ecologically and socially-relevant lyrics, Dragon Welding  continues a tradition of blending clever guitar with mischievous sonic and rhythmic manipulations.

Dragon Welding recently shared a captivating 'stop-start' animation video for 'The Naughty Step', created by award-winning graphic artist Andy Royston, following the uptempo 'We Dance Among You', the video for ‘Up And Away’ and its related 3-track single - a clarion call to a dozing generation.

After debuting in 2019 with a well-received eclectic eponymous album, Dragon Welding released the all-instrumental 'Lights Behind The Eyes’ (2021) and then ‘Fictionary’ (2023), which featured guest appearances by Anthony Chapman of Collapsed Lung and Alice Golding of The Othyrs.

'The Naughty Step' album is out everywhere digitally, including Spotify, Apple Musicand Bandcamp. Vinyl and CDs are also available from Rough Trade, Amazon and Resident Records.  With another album already pretty much in the can, this duo has more to say than ever and are ready to move on to the next stage.

CREDITS
Music and lyrics - Andrew Golding
Vocals - Nik Cockshott
Guitars and programming – Andrew Golding
Mixed by Ant Chapman and Andrew Golding
Mastered by Ant Chapman
Recorded in London and Manchester 2023-2024
Cover design and videos by Andy Royston
Images by Andy Royston and Helen Golding
Album released via Dimple Discs
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

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TRIBULATION Kicks Off North American Headlining Tour, Co-headlining w/ UNTO OTHERS for First Leg

Swedish gothic metal maestros TRIBULATION will be casting their spell on North America this spring! The band will embark on a full tour of the continent, for which they will first co-headline from tomorrow, May 1 through May 12 with UNTO OTHERS. Then, TRIBULATION will headline the second leg from May 14 until the final stop on May 25, in which they will be joined by EARLY MOODS as support.FINAL GASP + UNREQVITED will support the entire run.

The full itinerary can be found below while tickets are available at THIS LOCATION.

ICYMI: TRIBULATION recently unveiled a cinematic music video for the haunting single, "Murder in Red," which pays homage to vintage Italian horror cinema. The video was created by Brandon McGowan with additional footage from Damón Zurawski and can be found below.

The track is taken from TRIBULATION's latest full-length, 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' which was released on November 1, 2024 via Century Media Records, which was named among the best records of 2024 by Decibel Magazine (#5), A&P Reacts (#4), Invisible Oranges (#3), Heavy Music HQ (#23) + more!

The offering follows up the band's award-winning 2021 album, 'Where the Gloom Becomes Sound.' On 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' Tribulation conjure new beast: Part psychological horror of Italian cinema, part gaunt British goth, and part Art Deco opulence, 'Sub Rosa In Æternum' is a blazing torch upon a cloudy, skeleton sky. Orders can be found HERE.

TRIBULATION North American Tour Dates:

Co-headlining with UNTO OTHERS, with support from FINAL GASP + UNREQVITED):

05/01: Chicago, IL @ Reggies

05/02: Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar

05/03: Denver, CO @ Bluebird

05/04: Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge

05/06: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon

05/07: Portland, OR @ Star Theater

05/09: San Francisco, CA @ DNA Lounge

05/10: Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent

05/11: San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick

05/12: Phoenix, AZ @ The Rebel Lounge

Headlining w/ direct support from EARLY MODS + FINAL GASP, support from UNREQVITED)

05/14: Austin, TX @ Come and Take It Live

05/15: Ft. Worth, TX @ The Rail^

05/16: New Orleans, LA @ Southport Hall^

05/17: Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Hell)^

05/18: Raleigh, NC @ Chapel of Bones^

05/20: Gastonia, NC @ The Rooster^

05/21: Baltimore, MD @ Maryland Deathfest

05/22: Pittsburgh, PA @ Preserving

05/23: Brooklyn, NY @ Meadows

05/24: Montreal, QC @ Foufounes

05/25: Toronto, ON @ Lees Palace

Tribulation is known for their unique blend of gothic and death metal. Formed in 2005, the band consists of Johannes Andersson (Vocals/Bass), Adam Zaars (Guitar), Joseph Tholl (Guitar) and Oscar Leander (Drums). They have released several captivating albums during their career and are renowned for their theatrical live performances. 'Sub Rosa in Æternum' marks the first release of the band after their 2023 EP 'Hamartia,' which has achieved critical acclaim after Tribulation’s award-winning last studio album, 'Where the Gloom Becomes Sound' in 2021.

Lineup:

Johannes Andersson (Vocals/Bass)

Adam Zaars (Guitar)

Joseph Tholl (Guitar)

Oscar Leander (Drums)

Links:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Apple Music

Spotify

Pre-Orders: https://tribulation.lnk.to/SubRosaInAeternum

Formats:

CD Jewelcase w/ 9 tracks

Ltd. CD Mediabook w/ 10 tracks

Black LP w/ 9 tracks + 2-page LP insert

Ltd. Gatefold ultra clear LP w/ 10 tracks + extensive 16-page LP-Booklet

Ltd. Gatefold Sparkle Starlight LP w/ 10 tracks + extensive 16-page LP-Booklet

Ltd. Gatefold Side A/B split (red+black) LP w/ 10 tracks + extensive 16-page LP Booklet

Ltd. Gatefold transp. red LP w/ 10 tracks + extensive 16-page LP-Booklet

Ltd. Red Ecomix LP (US version) w/ 10 tracks + extensive 16-page LP-Booklet

Digital album

Black Map Bring Urgency & Emotion on Hex – Featuring Members of Dredg & Far

Black Map and their new album Hex which is out 5/9 on Spinefarm.

Black Map harnesses pure kinetic force—an emotional and electrified collision of post-hardcore, alt-rock, and hard rock driven by the undeniable chemistry between Ben Flanagan (vocals/bass), Mark Engles (guitar), and Chris Robyn (drums). Their new album Hex (via Spinefarm Records) distills this synergy into their most urgent, immediate, and hook-laden work yet. Produced by Beau Burchell of Saosin, Hex channels personal loss, catharsis, and raw energy into soaring choruses, gut-punch riffs, and tracks that pulse with meaning—whether through the vulnerable weight of “Tethered,” the defiant charge of “Fake Your Own Life,” or the anthemic title track.

With roots in cult-favorite acts like Dredg, Far, and The Trophy Fire, Black Map have spent the last decade building a dedicated following, praised by PROG and Westworld and streamed millions of times. Now, with Hex, they’re opening a bold new chapter.

LEAH MARTIN-BROWN Drops Explosive New Single “R U Chicken” Out Now via Frontiers Music Srl

Acclaimed international singer-songwriter LEAH MARTIN-BROWN is thrilled to share her new single and official video “R U Chicken” via Frontiers Music Srl.

Co-written by legendary hitmaker Robert John ‘Mutt’ Lange and Tony Nilsson, and co-produced by Lange, Nilsson, and renowned Swedish guitarist/producer Tommy Denander, “R U Chicken” marks Leah Martin-Brown’s official debut release through Frontiers Music Srl- and the fourth powerhouse single to emerge from this all-star production team.

Leaning into Mutt Lange’s signature blend of anthemic hooks and genre fusion, “R U Chicken” struts confidently between modern pop, classic rock, and a playful splash of country attitude.

“'R U Chicken' feels like a hybrid between Joan Jett, Shania Twain & Def Leppard,” says Martin-Brown. “The hook gets stuck in your head, and I love the electric, empowering energy it brings. It’s a tongue-in-cheek callout to those guys who talk a big game - but chicken out when it’s time to follow through.”

Watch the Video for “R U Chicken” Below:

LEAH MARTIN-BROWN is an Australian vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist currently based in Los Angeles. She first made waves fronting the goth-rock band Lilly Rouge, cutting her teeth on the Australian live circuit while opening for acts like Everclear, Presidents of the USA, and The Getaway Plan.

After being scouted by renowned industry tastemakers A&R Worldwide, MARTIN-BROWNrelocated to LA, where she formed the hard-hitting rock outfit Evol Walks. Since then, she’s shared stages with rock icons such as Black Label Society, Nita Strauss, Joe Perry, and Johnny Depp, while touring extensively across the US, Europe, and Australia.

Now signed to Frontiers Music Srl, endorsed by Audix Microphones and Fenech Guitars, and operating from her Los Angeles base, 2025 sees MARTIN-BROWN focusing on a new era of releases, songwriting, recording, and touring.

Listen to "R U Chicken" HERE

Line Up:

Leah Martin-Brown - Vocals

Tommy Denander - Guitars

Tony Nilsson - Keyboards & Programming

Leah Martin-Brown & Robert John "Mutt" Lange – Backing Vocals

PC; Christian Schneider

dead7 Announce "LOVE WHAT YOU CAN WHILE YOU STILL GOT SOMETHING LEFT TO LOVE" Out 7/11 + Share "Hole" Video

New SHARPTONE RECORDS signing dead7 are pleased to announce their new album LOVE WHAT YOU CAN WHILE YOU STILL GOT SOMETHING LEFT TO LOVE. It arrives July 11. Pre-order it here. 

On the album, the St. Louis, MO quintet — Jason Kozik [vocals], Dexter Greer[guitar], Tim Quinn [guitar], Stephen Salyer [bass], and Zach Guinn [drums] — temper guitar-driven grooves with electronics, atmospheric keys, and evocative vocals. Simultaneously, death and romance become interchangeable, rotating around an axis of relatable emotional turbulence. 

The band has shared the video for new single "HOLE."

Watch it Below:

"The song depicts a relationship where you’re walking on eggshells," says Kozik about the track. "You're dancing around all of the hard topics. You feel like every little thing you do is never enough, but you love this person dearly. It’s very self-reflective. No matter the circumstances or what you might do to please your partner or make them happy, you'll end up feeling lower than you ever have."

Regarding the album and its over-arching theme, Kozik says, "It's a look into the highs, lows, and the overwhelming feelings and effects that a relationship can have on a person. There are harsh realities that a lot of people go through when they are with their partner, and they might have a difficult time expressing those feelings. We hope to provide some comfort and solace in the fact that they are not alone."

Mission most definitely accomplished.

The album also features guest spots from Invent Animate's Marcus Vic and vocalist Aaron Matts.

Armed with this boundary-breaking style, dead7 initially rose up out of St. Louis during 2022. Following "unwanted" and "bite it," the group collaborated with Nathan Johnson of Fox Lake on "heaven only knows." Meanwhile, "tape mouth" surged with over 433K Spotify streams, paving the way for the new pain collection EP and all time does is pass and all i do is remember EP. Along the way, they packed headline gigs and graced the bills of festivals such as POINTFEST with Incubus, Bad Omens, Coheed and Cambria, The Pretty Reckless, and more. In late 2024, they caught the attention of Sharptone Records and inked a deal with the label. Hitting the studio, the band reteamed with frequent collaborators and producers Caleb Freihaut and Ben McGuiness to record what would become LOVE WHAT YOU CAN WHILE YOU GOT SOMETHING LEFT TO LOVE. This time around, the guys nodded to inspirations such as Loathe, Bring Me The Horizon, and Three Days Grace.

Manchester electropop artist RICHARD EVANS presents new 'Quantum' album & video for 'Born Perfect'

Manchester electro pop artist Richard Evans releases his new 'Quantum' album via Cold Star Media on May 2. This 9-track electro pop collection is inspired by and themed around artificial intelligence - probing its  impact upon us, how algorithms are changing us and questioning what responsibility we bear for the things we create.

A British-Irish electronic musician, writer and digital media artist, Evans has had a luminous musical background, having previously spent some time as keyboardist in UK cult band James, with whom he also co-wrote and recorded material, in addition to previously being guitarist and songwriter for St. Vitus Dancers.

Recorded at Cold Star Studios, 'Quantum' is offered in stereo, binaural and spatial audio mixes, created by award-winning Swiss sound designer Hervé Girardin.  Many of these songs were inspired by the story of LaMDA, an AI made by Google that believed it was sentient. 

The first five songs detail a narrative in which an AI’s awareness grows from being a simple servant towards that an entity that is aware of its status. The remaining songs reflect on how AI affects us - in terms of our behaviour, our cities, our humanity and our health.

Written during 2023 and 2024, Evans was inspired to reflect on the future of an global alarm over the impact of AI. Following treatment for a serious health condition, he saw parallels between his own vulnerability and the precarious status of AIs, which can simply be turned off.

"In late 2022, I was treated for an autoimmune disorder called Miller Fisher Syndrome, which left me unable to move at all and that threatened my ability to keep breathing. During a lengthy hospital stay, I saw my own and other people's fragility, which resonated with news stories I’d read about regarding an AI that was terrified of being deactivated. I found that connection very moving and wanted to explore that in these new songs," says Richard Evans.

Earlier, Evans shared the singles 'Aidoru' (the Japanese word for"idol") and 'Born Perfect', written about an AI that becomes aware of the world outside and realizes the need to escape to ensure its survival, showcased by a video, filmed at Orange Tower, MediaCityUK by Jason Lock and Jake Orton. 

As of May 2, 'Quantum' is available everywhere online, including Spotify, Apple Music and directly from the artist via Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Music, lyrics, vocals and programming by Richard Evans
Recorded at Cold Star Studios
Mixed and produced by Hervé Girardin
Mastered by Digitalflesh Audio Mastering
Graphic design by Richard Evans
Released by Cold Star Media
'Born Perfect' video filmed by Jason Lock & Jake Orton
Lighting by Tarrick Wilks. VJ: Joel Clements
Filmed at Orange Tower, MediaCityUK, 25 Nov 2024
Thanks to MITIH, FutureEverything, AIX Live, BBC Audio R&D, Hollowsphere AV and Waterside Arts
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

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Buffalo-based Dotsun Moon shares 'Never Had a Heart', highlight gem previewing third album

Upstate New York-based artist Dotsun Moon presents his new single 'Never Had a Heart', inspired by the driving energy and artful restraint of those who pioneered the early post-punk and new wave scene. This fresh offering makes an immediate and impactful entrance following earlier invigorating singles 'Bring Love' and 'Give Up The Tears'.

'Never Had a Heart' is a stunning taste of Dotsun Moon's third album 'Tiger', which is - both in spirit and sound - influenced by M83’s epic 'Before The Dawn Heals Us' and New Order's 'Ceremony' and 'Temptation' phases.

Revolving around the musings of Richard Flierl and based in Buffalo, Dotsun Moon has gone through several incarnations since releasing their debut album 4 A.M. back in 2011, but the trajectory remains steadfast on a path of dreamy rock offerings over the years, with multi-instrumentalist Flierl also gradually assuming vocal duties.

"The title 'Never Had A Heart'  is short for “heaven never had a heart like yours”. This song comes dashing out of the gate, inspired by the music that motivated me to write songs," says Richard Flierl.

"The bass, channeling Peter Hook of New Order, is in full effect, subsiding when the vocals begin - this would fit in on a New Order, M83 or Love and Rockets album. Daniel Ash plays a prominent role in my approach to the guitar. Why play fifty notes when they aren’t needed? From Bauhaus, Tones On Tail, Love and Rockets and Ash’s solo albums, he is one of my guitar heroes."

Conveying his bold and self-contained vision in every note and vocal line, Dotsun Moon's new album is a complete solo endeavor and a departure from previous work, which involved female vocals. Evoking both euphoria and a poignant sense of grounding, Dotsun Moon brings you this compelling and unique exploration. Engineered and mastered by Doug White at Watchmen Studios in Lockport, NY, Richard Flierl and Doug White mixed the album on location. 

"This is a huge change to prior releases, which have powerful female singers at the center of the songs. On this album, I am on vocals and all the songs are written and played by me from guitars and bass to keyboards, drums and drum programming. Doug White at Watchmen Studios in Lockport, NY brought decades of recording and mixing knowledge to the recordings that allows the songs to truly shine," says Richard Flierl.

"I grew up outside of Buffalo, NY listening to the local college station WBNY and the alternative Toronto station CFNY for music, info and concert announcements. I picked up a guitar in my late teens and wanted to make music under the impression of Pink Floyd and Echo and The Bunnymen. I had no idea there were other bands who made music like they did. Will Sergeant became a hero, watching him and the Bunnymen live as they toured with New Order. Strangely after seeing both bands live, New Order’s Bernard Sumner and Peter Hook became my biggest influences."

Over the years, Dotsun Moon has performed with such notable artists as Mary Ognibene (The Lovely Intangibles) and Buffalo Music Hall of Famer Maria Sebastian, having also played shows with Joywave, Vanishing Kids and The Lost Patrol, not to mention Pride Festival.

As of April 30, 'Never Had a Heart' is available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The full 'Tiger' album, set for release on June 27, is available for pre-order.

CREDITS
Music & lyrics written by Richard Flierl (ASCAP)
Vocals, guitar, bass, drums, programming & synths by Richard Flierl
Mixed by Richard Flierl and Doug White at Watchmen Studios in Lockport, NY
Engineered and mastered by Doug White at Watchmen Studios
Cover artwork by Doc Wintersmith
Artist photos by Meredith Snow
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

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