MORTIIS Unveils Music Video for Trippy New Single, "Violent Silence"

April 21, 2026

Iconic Norwegian artist MORTIIS is now unveiling a stunning music video for his trippy new single, "Violent Silence." The clip was once again written and directed by Claudio Marino and can be found below.

"Lyrically, 'Violent Silence' came into being as an apology to my wife," MORTIIS admits ruefully. "I had done something stupid again, and she was really upset. I was trying to apologise in a text message – a really long one. The lyrics for 'Violent Silence' took a lot of inspiration from those words and that moment. As time goes by and having lived with this song for quite a while now, it gets harder for me to listen to those words. The gut-wrenching sensation of guilt never goes away fully. Musically, it was a very inspiring song to work on – especially with all those crazy fuzz and echo guitars that built up this song towards the end."

"Violent Silence" is taken from MORTIIS' upcoming studio album, 'Ghosts of Europa,' which is due on June 26, 2026 via Prophecy Productions, making it his debut to the label! 'Ghosts of Europa' is available as ltd. box set incl. 2CD artbook edition, gatefold LP (excl. handmade sand-filled vinyl), bonus LP, music cassette et al. (50 copies). Ltd. box set incl. 2CD artbook edition, gatefold LP (excl. 'galaxy' metallic vinyl), bonus LP, music cassette et al. (450 copies). As a 60-page hardcover 2CD artbook incl. 8-track bonus CD, ltd. Gatefold marble smoke vinyl LP (300 copies), ltd. Gatefold crystal clear vinyl LP (300 copies), Gatefold black vinyl LP, and Digipak CD Pre-orders are now live HERE.

MORTIIS is now on the road with UADA for a very special co-headliner, featuring exclusive anniversary sets and supporting performances by Jerome Reuter’s ROME and WRAITH KNIGHT. MORTIIS is performing songs from his groundbreaking 2001 full-length, 'The Smell Of Rain,' along with other volumes of dystopian despair while UADA is performing their seminal 2016 debut album 'Devoid of Light' in its entirety + a special CERMONIAL CASTINGS 30-year anniversary set featuring WRAITH KNIGHT. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets are available HERE.

Mortiis is a pioneering dark ambient and industrial metal artist, widely credited as the founder of the dungeon synth genre, whose work spans from haunting atmospheric soundscapes to abrasive, genre-defying electronic metal. With a legacy stretching over three decades, he remains one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in underground dark music

Video credits:

Written & directed by Claudio Marino

First assistant director: Daniel Josefsson

Produced by Artax Film

Colouring by Yellowtone

Cast (in order of appearance):

Woman: Enya Ellefsen

Oracle: Gunn Johansson

Key Bearers: Daniel Josefsson & Mortiis

GET TICKETS HERE

THE WITCHES OF DYSTOPIA TOUR MMXXVI

(UADA + MORTIIS w/ Jerome Reuter’s ROME + WRAITH KNIGHT):

04/21/26: Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle

04/22/26: Covington, KY @ Madison Live

04/23/26: Pittsburgh, PA @ Preserving Underground

04/24/26: Toronto, ON @ Lee's Palace

04/25/26: Montreal, QC @ Cafe Campus

04/26/26: Quebec City, QC @ La Source

04/27/26: Boston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall

04/28/26: Brooklyn, NY @ Meadows

04/29/26: Bensalem, PA @ Broken Goblet

04/30/26: Baltimore, MD @ Metro

05/01/26: Raleigh, NC @ Chapel Of Bones

05/02/26: Atlanta, GA @ 529 EAV

05/03/26: Orlando, FL @ Conduit

05/05/26: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live

05/06/26: Austin, TX @ Come And Take It Live

05/07/26: Dallas, TX @ Club Dada

05/08/26: Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad

05/09/26: Denver, CO @ HQ

05/10/26: Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge

05/11/26: Las Vegas, NV @ Swan Dive

05/12/26: San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick

05/13/26: Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo

05/14/26: San Jose, CA @ The Ritz

05/15/26: Eugene, OR @ John Henry's

05/16/26: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon

"Ghosts of Europa" is the sonic testimony of an experienced and matured musician, who created what he loves most and does best: electronic rock with stylistic influences from many genres while not being bound by any that creates dark soundscapes, cinematic sonic visions, and a plethora of emotions. Just when you think that you have finally figured "Ghosts of Europa" out, MORTIIS will surprise you with another facet and fresh aspect of his richly detailed masterpiece.

Line-up:

Håvard "Mortiis" Ellefsen – vocals, keyboards, vocoder, bass guitar, programming

Guest musicians

Benedicte Computorgirl (COMPUTORGIRL) – vocals on track 4

Christopher Amott (ARCH ENEMY et al.) – guitar solo on track 7

Christopher Rakkestad (ELVARHØI, BOLVERK) – vocals on track 1-6

Emil Nikolaisen (SERENA MANEESH, BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE et al.) – fuzz & noise guitars & additional FX on track 3 & 4

Iliana Basileios Tsakiraki (ENEMY OF REALITY, SEPTICFLESH et al.) – vocals on tracks 1, 2, & 5

Laurie Ann Haus (BLIZZARD GAMES) – vocals on track 1, 2, 5 & 7

Matthew Setzer (SKINNY PUPPY, LONDON AFTER MDNIGHT) – throat singing on track 7

Michal Kielbasa (BLACK MAGIC RITES et al.) – tubular bell & vibraphone on track 2, tubular bell on track 6 & tabla loops, additional synths & FX on track 7

Sarah Jezebel Deva (THE KOVENANT, CRADLE OF FILTH et al.) – vocals on tracks 1-3, 5 & 6

Thomas Bolverk (RAGNAROK, BOLVERK) – distortion, clean & sampled guitars on track 6

Thorsten Quaeschning (TANGERINE DREAM) – additional synths & sequencers on track 1

Vegard Blomberg (MOCK) – e-bow & guitars on track 2, additional Copicat, Space Echo, fuzz & e-bow guitars) on track 4, Copicat, Space Echo & fuzz guitars on track 4, fuzz guitars on track 6, fuzz & ambient guitars on track & guitars on track 8

Erling Blomberg – additional guitars on track 8

Album Credits:

Recorded (re-recorded, re-animated & eternally tweaked and re-tweaked) at various locations over a thousand sessions during years of misery, poverty, and disdain (2020-2026) in Fredrikstad (NO)

Early vocal recording by co-producer Stephan Groth at Pitch Black Drive, Fredrikstad (NO)

Mix by Sean Beavan at The Grey Room, Crestline, CA (US)

Mastering by Jules Seifert at Epic Audio Media, London (UK)

Cover Artist: Nihil

Layout Creator: Laurent Clément (Dead Seed Productions)

Pre-orders:

https://mortiiswebstore.com/pages/ghosts-of-europa

Available formats:

"Ghosts of Europa" is available as a 60-page hardcover 2CD artbook incl. 8-track bonus CD, ltd. Gatefold XXX vinyl LP, Gatefold black vinyl LP, and Digipak CD.

MORTIIS Links:

unpeople Return With Video for Ferocious New Single "clouds"

April 21, 2026

The formidable unpeople return today with the video for their ferocious new single "clouds" — a whirlwind track offering unforgettable hooks, and addictive harmonies, through to crushing riffs and singalongs — out now on SharpTone Records.

"clouds" embodies everything that unpeople are about. At its core, the track is a defiant rejection of external pressure, trend-chasing, and the hollow pursuit of validation.

Listen HERE and watch the video Below.

"'clouds' is essentially about not letting yourself be influenced by what other people think you should be doing to get ahead artistically, and trusting your own vision and process," explains frontman Jake Crawford. "I could feel myself being pulled in lots of directions when we started the band and I'm glad we stuck to our guns. I feel like this song is an excellent representation of us doing just that: 'Not buying it,' i.e. quick fixes or hopping on trends — be it musically or the way we present ourselves as a unit."

Comprised of Crawford, Luke Caley, Em Lodge, and Richard Rayner, unpeople are a unique four-piece driven with a mission to fuse powerful lyricism, hefty riffs, and melodic accessibility, and the band channels collective frustration into music that speaks directly to those who feel overlooked or undervalued. The meaning behind their name lies at the core of their identity: "Unpeople" — those deemed politically unimportant or without value. It's a concept the band embraces fully, creating a space where like-minded individuals can find genuine connection.

With just the one EP under their belts, unpeople continue to massively impress and see their sound combine hook-laden choruses, bone-crunching breakdowns, and lush harmonies, challenging preconceived notions of what heavy music can be. Tracks released already include "the garden" + "waste."

This same insatiable energy translates effortlessly to their live shows, which have already seen them support the likes of Metallica and Coheed & Cambria. And this summer will see a string of festival appearances that include a huge Main Stage opening slot at Download Festival, as well as Slam Dunk, Hurricane, Southside, Copenhell, and more — full dates below.

With "clouds," unpeople reaffirm their place as a band unafraid to challenge both themselves and their audience, delivering a powerful and timely message.

We are unpeople. You are unpeople. We are all unpeople.

UNPEOPLE LIVE:
5/23 — Hatfield, UK — Slam Dunk Festival
5/24 — Leeds, UK — Slam Dunk Festival
6/3–6/6 — Sölvesborg, SE — Sweden Rock Festival
6/10–6/14 — Hradec Králové, CZ — Rock for People
6/11–6/13 — Interlaken, CH — Greenfield Festival
6/14 — Donington, UK — Download Festival
6/19–6/21 — Scheessel, DE — Hurricane Festival
6/19–6/21 — Neuhausen ob Eck, DE — Southside Festival
6/25–6/27 — Ysselsteyn, NL — Jera On Air
6/27 — Copenhagen, DK — Copenhell
7/17–7/18 — Joensuu, FI — Ilosaarirock
7/31–8/2 — Manchester, UK — Radar Festival
9/3 — Torquay, UK — The Foundry

UNPEOPLE ARE:
Jake Crawford — Guitar, Lead Vocals
Luke Caley — Guitar, Vocals
Meg Mash — Bass, Vocals
Richard Rayner — Drums, Vocals

The Joy Thieves unveil video for 'The Wrong End of Your Rifle' feat. Chris Connelly

April 21, 2026

Chicago alt-rock outfit The Joy Thieves are back with ‘The Wrong End of Your Rifle’, along with a new video by Joel Lopez at Lumbra Productions. This is the first single from their full-length album 'Apocalypse Pending', out June 5th via Armalyte Industries. Featuring Chris Connelly (Fini Tribe, Revolting Cocks, Ministry, Pigface)on vocals, this ripping track addresses the intense frustration we’re all feeling over corporations and billionaires seemingly able to do whatever they want, whenever they want, without consequence.

Revolving around musicians-producers Dan Milligan and James Scott (a.k.a. Joy Thieves Productions), The Joy Thieves is a musical supergroup that includes current, former, and touring members of Ministry, Stabbing Westward, The Rollins Band, Killing Joke, Pigface, RevCo, PIG, David Bowie, Blue October, Machines of Loving Grace, Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails, KMFDM, Naked Raygun, Foetus, My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult, Pegboy, Nitzer Ebb, Die Krupps and more.

A jagged, cynical critique of the intersection between state violence, corporate greed, and digital voyeurism, ‘The Wrong End of Your Rifle’ portrays a world where human life is devalued and even the most violent acts are packaged as content or conveniently filtered, filmed yet ultimately ignored by the screen-numbed masses.

“When the billionaires are accountable for nothing, and force their will by suppression in the streets, we have to become inventive. As we are forced to watch corporations create for-profit prisons, we must remember that we can't argue or reason with bullets,” says Chris Connelly.

Since signing with legendary London alternative-industrial label Armalyte Industries in 2018, The Joy Thieves have delivered 11 critically-acclaimed releases. Produced, engineered and mixed by Joy Thieves Productions at Populist Recording + Mastering, 'Apocalypse Pending' is the newest record to blaze a mind-bending trail.

Joy Thieves Productions crafts their surprisingly cohesive signature sound from the contributions of its ever-growing 80+ roster of members, drawn from a diverse range of genres, including industrial, rock, punk, darkwave, hip hop and experimental music, they produce a sound that The Joy Thieves describe as being created by “all of us. And yet, none of us”. This approach has allowed the band to create a sound all its own. Aggressive, yet precise. Confrontational, but refined. Harsh, yet layered with melody.

Many of the songs on the new album began with producer-drummer Dan Milligan re-recording iconic hip hop breakbeats with modern drum sounds. ‘The Wrong End of Your Rifle’ began exactly that way -- with a modern re-imagining of the one of the most famous breakbeats of all time (‘Ashley’s Roachclip’ by The Soul Searchers). This formed the basis upon which the entire track was built.

“At the very beginning of the creation process for Apocalypse Pending, the goal was to blend the existing Joy Thieves’ sound with elements of the golden age of hip hop, and I think ‘The Wrong End of Your Rifle’ does that as well as any song on the album,” says Dan Milligan.

For a band with members spread all over the world, The Joy Thieves' music feels like it could have only been made in Chicago. Anchored by their love of industrial rock, their music immediately outgrows the restrictions of the genre by stretching into the new realms, creating a sound that both honors the past while pushing its evolution into the future.

‘The Wrong End of Your Rifle’ is out now, available from digital music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The 'Apocalypse Pending' album will be released on June 5th.

CREDITS
Single written by Chris Connelly, Dan Milligan, Derek Christopher, Dee J Nelson
Produced, engineered & mixed by Joy Thieves Productions
at Populist Recording + Mastering, Wheaton, IL
Mastered by James Scott at Populist Recording + Mastering
Additional production by:
Derek Christopher at Penfield Studios
Mark Pistel at Room 5 Studios
Jeff Harris at JH Studios
Steven Archer at House of Wolves
Dee J Nelson at DJN Music Studio
Jane Jensen at Autozen Music
DJ Darryl Hell at HellLab Studios
Art direction by Destiny Justic Scott
Original artwork by Charlie Athanas for Burning City
Video by Joel Lopez at Lumbra Productions

Released via Armalyte Industries

Hardcore Torchbearers Pro-Pain Release Single + Lyric Video "Scorched Earth"

April 20, 2026

HARDCORE TORCHBEARERS PRO-PAIN RELEASE LYRIC VIDEO FOR NEW SINGLE "SCORCHED EARTH"

NEW ALBUM, STONE COLD ANGER, RELEASES MAY 15 VIA NAPALM RECORDS — PRE-ORDER

"And so it begins…": Hardcore juggernauts PRO-PAIN share the third single from their upcoming album, Stone Cold Anger, out May 15 via Napalm Records. "Scorched Earth" sets the tone for the future, accompanied by heavy riffs, catchy guitars, and sing-alongs. A sinister yet fiercely anthemic track, "Scorched Earth" is a pummeling demonstration of power, perfectly fitting for the band's first album in 11 years. PRO-PAIN are back—and they stayed on top of their heavy game!

Gary Meskil about "Scorched Earth":
"'Scorched Earth' explores what happens when ordinary people are pushed to their breaking point. Drawing inspiration from films such as the 1990s Michael Douglas drama Falling Down, the lyrics examine how pressure, frustration, and a sense of powerlessness can build over time. The song speaks to themes of reckoning, consequence, and the desire for genuine accountability."

Watch the Official Lyric Video for "Scorched Earth" Below:

Legendary New York hardcore juggernauts PRO-PAIN make their debut on Napalm Records with their 16th studio album, Stone Cold Anger, out on May 15. Their first release in 11 years showcases the band's explosive energy in its purest form: Stone Cold Anger unfolds heavy, angry, and ready as ever—proving PRO-PAIN haven't lost even an ounce of strength. An exceptionally catchy offering, the new album fortifies its groovy melodies and stirring guitar riffs with furious and inciting, anthemic vocals, turning the ten new songs into worthy follow-ups to their 3.5mm stream hit "Voice of Rebellion" (2015).

Stone Cold Anger is an enthralling, memorable, and triumphant milestone for PRO-PAIN, and an impressive demonstration of power. See you in the pit!

Gary Meskil about Stone Cold Anger:
"Thank you to our fans worldwide for 35 years of unwavering support. After a decade away from the recording studio, we return with Stone Cold Anger — an album forged from global tension and the rising demand for accountability."

Order your copy of Stone Cold Anger NOW.

PRO-PAIN ARE:
Gary Meskil — Bass + Vocals
Jonas Sanders — Drums
Greg Discenza — Lead Guitar
Eric Klinger — Rhythm Guitar

Kriigerkvlt Sign to Season of Mist with New Single "Mahakala"

April 20, 2026

Formed in 2025, Kriigerkvlt is a new collective that features Heilung founding member Kai Uwe Faust and members of the Heilung warrior choir. The collective debuted live on stage in Copenhagen alongside industrial doom raver John Cxnnor and the occult feminist black metal band Witch Club Satan with an exclusive premiere of their collaborative song “Hypothermia”.

Kriigerkvlt is not tied to a specific cultural identity, historical time period or genre. They explore a wide range of expressions: harsh gutturals, throat singing, drone, piano, harp, marimba, guitar and nyckelharpa. No matter what form they take, their focus remains rooted in intensity, atmosphere and the spirit of collaboration.

To commemorate their signing to Season of Mist, today, Kriigerkvlt are releasing their first official single. From its opening bells, “Mahakala” ventures deep into a realm of fire, only to emerge transformed after a confrontation with one’s shadow self.

“We are excited to announce our signing with Season of Mist”, Kriigerkvlt vocalist Kai Uwe Faust says. “We have seen firsthand how the label has supported Heilung’s artistic freedom. As a flexible collective that specializes in extreme vocal textures and unconventional soundscapes, we felt that was also important for Kriigerkvlt”.

“In an age where sacred symbols are often commercialized or stripped of context, Kriigerkvlt stands apart”, Faust continues. “‘Mahakala’ is not a spectacle. It is a call to confront the hidden forces within us all, not through blind violence, but through awareness, discipline and transformation”.

Watch the music video for “Mahakala” below:

Stream “Mahakala”

https://orcd.co/kriigerkvltmahakala

“Mahakala” invokes a wrathful deity from Tibetan Buddhism. But even though his appearance is frightening, Kriigerkvlt reveal that Mahakala is not evil. Instead, their new single is a reminder that the real enemy lies within ourselves. “Our attachments, our delusions, our inner chaos, these are the shadows Mahakala consumes in his black fire”, Faust says.

Kriigerkvlt approach “Mahakala” with deep respect. The song is not an act of cultural appropriation but a deeply felt offering. Martial drums, ritualistic chanting, harsh vocals, heaves of bass, fragile piano and choral singing come together to honor what Mahakala truly represents. Long before his appearance in Buddhism, he was revered amongst the Bön shamanic tradition as a spirit of protection and wild nature. His black skin represents absorption, swallowing duality, illusions and all sense of fragmentation.

“Kriigerkvlt taps into Mahakala not as outsiders, but as seekers of the same fire that burns in every human tradition”, Faust says. “The song is intense, raw and uncompromising. It evokes the confrontation with the shadow self, the spiritual warrior’s path and the dissolving of the ego”.

The video for “Mahakala” was directed and filmed by Kai Uwe Faust. It was edited by Christian Medea and Anda Lupulet.

Current lineup

Kai Uwe Faust - Vocals

KC Johnson - Vocals

Gwydion Zomer - Vocals

Katalin Papp - Vocals

Ruben Terlouw - Vocals

Britt Mollberg - Drums, Vocals

Nadiia Kalamieiets - Vocals, Piano

Edward Boyter - Bass Guitar, Vocals

Nina Cornelia Schilp - Vocals

Jenna Marwell - Vocals

Nicholas Flanagan - Vocals

Cynthia Nugent - Vocals

Mitchell Bosch - Vocals

Chloé Alicia Bakker - Vocals

Martin Skou - Vocals

Obban - Vocals

Songwriting credits

Composed by Kai Uwe Faust and Per Åhlund

Production credits

Recorded at Atlantis Studio in Stockholm, Sweden by Niclas Lindström and Clara Hedås Schmidt

Additional sounds by Peo Bengtsson

Produced and mixed by Per Åhlund

Production assistance by Elsa Åborg

Mastered by Johannes Ahlberg

Booking contact
Martin Skou - martin@skou.edu

Follow Kriigerkvlt

Linktree: linktr.ee/kriigerkvlt

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1TWCjCYpZ37K19bjdE6DDQ?si=Eo5xfRGyRdmq5Cs3zr_4aQ

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kriigerkvlt/1883974719

Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/nl/artist/378555141

Tidal: https://tidal.com/artist/75720634

YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCziBHh5o9tWE01abGoW5K-g

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kriigerkvlt/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kriigerkvlt/

WORLDWIDEPANIC Unleash Explosive Drum Playthrough for “The Greatest Villain The World Has Ever Seen”

April 20, 2026

WORLDWIDE PANIC are pulling back the curtain on the power behind the kit with the release of an intense new drum playthrough video for their track, “The Greatest Villain The World Has Ever Seen.”

Known for their hard-hitting sound and unrelenting energy, WORLDWIDE PANIC puts the spotlight squarely on the precision, speed, and raw force that drives the song. The playthrough delivers a front-row view of the intricate rhythms and explosive dynamics that give the track its commanding presence.

From thunderous fills to razor-sharp transitions, the video captures every detail of the performance, offering fans and fellow musicians an inside look at the technical skill and passion fueling WORLDWIDE PANIC'S sound.

Hard rock powerhouse WORLDWIDE PANIC is set to make a thunderous statement with the release of their highly anticipated sophomore album, The Greatest Villain The World Has Ever Seen, arriving TODAY. The band is also releasing the album’s commanding title track, giving fans an early taste of what promises to be their most ambitious and sonically aggressive project to date.

Fueled by crushing riffs, cinematic storytelling, and unapologetic intensity, The Greatest Villain The World Has Ever Seen showcases WORLDWIDE PANIC pushing their creative and musical boundaries further than ever before. The album dives deep into themes of power, corruption, internal battles, and the complex nature of what truly defines a villain in

today’s world.

"This album marks an exciting time in WORLDWIDE PANIC History. This is a very eclectic meaningful record. Filled with related themes and undeniable hooks this record takes the band to new heights." - Lane Steele

Two singles from this album "Break Me Down"and "Below It All" have already charted on the SMR Top 40

The title track stands as a bold centerpiece for the album, delivering relentless energy, thunderous percussion, and emotionally charged vocals that capture the band’s signature blend of melody and aggression. The song sets the tone for a record that balances raw hard rock grit with modern production and layered storytelling.

Throughout the album, listeners can expect a dynamic range of soundscapes — from anthemic stadium-ready choruses to darker, heavier moments that showcase the band’s evolution and versatility. Mixed and mastered by Bob Marlette(Salvia, Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie) and Zuess (Hatebreed, White Chapel, Demon Hunter), the record reflects WORLDWIDE PANIC'Scommitment to growth while staying true to the hard rock roots that built their rapidly expanding fanbase.

With The Greatest Villain The World Has Ever Seen, WORLDWIDE PANIC aims to deliver not just an album, but an experience — one that invites listeners into a world where heroes and villains blur, and the soundtrack is loud, unapologetic, and unforgettable.

The Greatest Villain The World Has Ever Seen is available on all major streaming

OFFICER LUCIFER Presents Video For "Swallow"

April 20, 2026

OFFICER LUCIFER's transmission continues with the new single and video, "Swallow". The track presents an uncompromising criticism of manufactured misinformation that is designed to confuse and disorientate perceptions of reality. "Swallow" follows the release of "Far From Right" featuring Page Hamilton of HELMET.

Guitarist David Coloma comments:
"'Swallow' is a direct confrontation with blind obedience.

A track about submission, manipulation, and the systems that thrive when people stop thinking for themselves."

OFFICER LUCIFER's sound is rooted in raw aggression born from a fusion of genres including metal, punk, grunge, and Latin rhythms. "Swallow" unleashes an anguished-fueled attack of gritty distortion, driving rhythms, and melodic vocal melodies performed by Yves Myr. The song exists within OFFICER LUCIFER's narrative world where engineered hybrids rise up against their human creators, mirroring real-world cycles of control, corruption, and resistance.

The lyrics for "Swallow" expose a cycle of bombardment; the continuous exposure to lies, biased perspectives and fear mongering. The song confronts the unquestioned consumption and ingestion of these fabrications that leads to a perspective of existence and selfhood that is an illusion.

Drums and bass for "Swallow" were performed by Andrés Benavides and Pancho Tomaselli and recorded by Daniel Pasquel at La Increible Sociedad - Quito, Ecuador. The track was mixed by Jesse Gander at Rain City Recorders and mastered by Jamie King.

OFFICER LUCIFER is:

Pancho Tomaselli - Bass
David Coloma - Guitars
Andrés Benavides - Drums

Connect with OFFICER LUCIFER:

Official Website: https://officerlucifer.com/
Bandcamp: https://officerlucifer.bandcamp.com/
E-Shop: https://officerlucifer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579227425143
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officer.lucifer
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficerLuciferBand
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/70NIdFwxdXrie6rQA3a4wt
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/officer-lucifer/1837993060
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officer.lucifer

Kingcrow Release Acoustic Version of "New Moon Harvest"

April 20, 2026

Italian progressive rock band Kingcrow are releasing an acoustic version of "New Moon Harvest", a song from their latest critically-acclaimed album Hopium. The acoustic version is available now on all digital streaming platforms.

The acoustic version of “New Moon Harvest” scales the song down to its core, allowing the melody and lyrical weight to carry it. The video was filmed in a treehouse with the full Kringcrow lineup, capturing the performance in an intimate, stripped-back setting that contrasts with the atmospheric density of Hopium.

Watch the video for the acoustic version of “New Moon Harvest” Below:

Hopium is out now on Season of Mist

Order & stream

https://orcd.co/kingcrowhopium

Hopium draws on progressive rock, ambient music, alternative rock and trip-hop, with references that span from Porcupine Tree and Radiohead to Leprous, Archive and Massive Attack. Within the album, “New Moon Harvest” is caught in the tension between the search for one’s inner self and the outside pressures from everyday life.

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

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

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

Line-up:

Diego Marchesi - Vocals

Diego Cafolla - Guitars, Keys, Backing Vocals

Ivan Nastasi - Guitars, Backing Vocals

Riccardo Nifosì - Bass, Backing Vocals

Thundra - Drums, Percussions

Recording Studio:
Sound Under Pressure (Rome, Italy)

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

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

Mastered by Marco Vannucci at Spitfire Mastering Studio (Italy)

Cover Art:
Devilnax

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

UK Rocker DAN BYRNE Unveils New Single "Home"

April 20, 2026

Hotly-tipped UK rocker DAN BYRNE has unveiled his new single "Home," another glimpse of his highly-anticipated debut record 'This Is Where the Show Begins' out May 22nd via Frontiers Srl.

Dan comments:

"'Home' closes the album on a grand and emotional scale. Musically, it’s vast - cinematic guitars, soaring vocals, and a sense of release that makes it feel like the light breaking through at the end of a storm. Lyrically, 'Home' is about connection that transcends distance, the kind of love that grounds you no matter how far you roam. It was born out of life on the road: hotel rooms, long drives, and late nights spent under unfamiliar skies, but knowing that somewhere out there, the person you love is looking up at the same stars.

"No matter how far away I am, my partner is my home. We might be on opposite sides of the world, but we’re still under the same sky, the same stars, the same universe. Home is about sitting with the weight of loneliness and finding comfort in the thought that someone is part of you, even when they’re not near. It’s a song about peace, belonging, and gratitude.

"As the final song on the record, 'Home' acts as the emotional resolution to everything that’s come before: the end of the storm, if you will. After exploring conflict, self-sabotage, anger, and pain across the album, this song represents acceptance, stillness, and clarity. It’s a love letter, a homecoming, and a moment of still light in the aftermath of noise.

"'Home' is where the journey finally lands - not in a place, but in a person."

The single follows Dan's triumphant headline tour, with nearly every date sold out. He follows this with an acoustic record store tour. See below for the complete list of dates.

Watch the Official Video for "Home" Below

‘This Is Where The Show Begins,’ DAN’s debut album, is full of joy and confidence. There is swagger alongside sensitivity, a widening musical horizon that feels both fresh and bold. At the center of it all is that voice, as powerful as it is vulnerable, as emotive as it is commanding.

The lead single, “Saviour,” is a perfect opener. It bursts to life with attention-grabbing hard-rock stabs and pile-driving riffs, its verses simmering with quiet drama before exploding into a chorus that promises we are in for one hell of a ride. It struts, it shimmies, and it absolutely rocks. “Light ’em up,” indeed. There is no letup as we are thrown headlong into “She’s the Devil,” DAN delivering a colossal vocal punctuated by gonzo guitar gymnastics, the euphoria here is undeniable.

Elsewhere, we are taken to church with “Praise Hell,” and “Sober” is steeped in regret. We may even get a glimpse of where DAN is headed next with album closer “Home,” a sprawling, shapeshifting piece of alt-rock that never loses its soul. It feels like Glenn Hughes and 30 Seconds to Mars combining their superpowers and letting the sparks fly.

‘This Is Where The Show Begins’ feels like the culmination of an incredible journey so far and the launching point for what comes next. It is a testament to backing yourself, trusting your instincts, and letting ambition, honesty and musical diversity lead the way. This is where it may truly begin for DAN. The exciting question now is where he will take us next.

Pre-Order 'This Is Where The Show Begins' HERE

Dan will also be performing at Steelhouse Festival on July 25th.

DAN BYRNE swept in off the Mersey, announcing himself as a solo artist in 2023 with his debut EP, ‘Beginnings.’ His powerhouse, soul-inflected vocal and deftly-executed, yet hugely accessible songcraft has quickly marked him out as an artist on the rise. Blending contemporary edge with classic influence, BYRNE’s music is powerful, honest, and deeply emotive - widescreen in scope yet intimate at its core. It rocks, without question, but what truly sets him apart is the courage to weave sensitivity and vulnerability through the intensity. This isn’t just rock music - it has the heart and authenticity to connect with an audience beyond any one genre.

In just two years DAN has toured the UK three times, delivered standout performances at multiple festivals and found overwhelming support from Planet Rock - the UK’s leading rock station - where his first four singles amassed an impressive 25 weeks on the playlist. With that foundation firmly in place, BYRNE now turns his focus to the release of his long-awaited debut solo album, marking the next powerful step in his evolution as an artist.

Portland outfit Wooden Overcoat debut 'Home' single - a gazey dose of psychedelic dreampop

April 20, 2026

Based in the rain-slicked creative hub of Portland, psychedelic pop outfit Wooden Overcoat presents their shimmering single "Home", a captivating sonic experience that envelopes the senses in a reverb-drenched sanctuary. The trippy accompanying video was created by Italian multi-arts visionary Francesca Bonci.

Previewing the debut "Hello Sunbeam" EP, this is the first official transmission from the band, blending the sun-drenched textures of 60s garage rock with the restless energy of raw fuzzed-out modern indie spirit. Between the wash of tape echo and reverb, the track finds a sweet spot where lo-fi garage psych meets 90s shoegaze, all anchored by layered harmonies and an evocatively intimate vocal delivery.

The sonic brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Brant Hajek, Wooden Overcoat began in the isolation of 2020, when he returned to music after a hiatus, recording songs he'd written in his late teens. What started as a practice in self-production transformed into a deep creative obsession with soundscapes and gear. Recording in a rented basement, Hajek built the foundation of the EP through spontaneous experimentation—often veering away from planned sessions to follow sudden bursts of inspiration.

"When I wrote "Home", it kind of poured out of me, and I think I’m still interpreting it. But to me, it’s about acknowledging something beautiful, even if it can’t last. Two people who feel naturally paired, like elements of nature, slowly decomposing and self-destructing," says Brant Hajek.

"It’s about the inevitable demise of anything, and ultimately that we need to appreciate what is here right now and live in that magical existence. It’s about having the capacity to admire even when things are burning out."

A study in productive contradictions; while the lyrics and aesthetics might suggest a certain darkness, they are often rooted in inside jokes and a sense of warmth. Hajek’s creative process is a deeply personal, layered journey involving mumbled placeholder lyrics and a patient wait for the specific spark that turns an "emotionally restless" melody into a finished piece.

While Hajek performed every instrument on the studio recordings to preserve the project’s intimate DIY spirit, he has since found his tribe, assembling a full live band to translate these compositions to the stage. With Hajek leading the way on guitar and lead vocals, Wooden Overcoat is rounded out by Dillon Glusker on bass, Mac on guitar, and Brian Levin on drums and backing vocals. Through community, the band creates a fantastic dreamlike environment for like-minded people.

The name Wooden Overcoat—an old Americana euphemism for a coffin—hints at the project’s core philosophy: a playful balance of moody, mystical imagery with light-hearted humor. Hajek’s creative process is personal, the rough versions eventually coalescing into vivid, emotionally resonant themes.

This is Wooden Overcoat's first collaboration with Italian multi-arts visionary Francesca Bonci, well known for her work with The Dandy Warhols, Pete International Airport and Slowdive's Rachel Goswell, LA's Tombstones In Their Eyes, Federale (The Brian Jonestown Massacre's Collin Hegna), post-rock outfit The Quality of Mercury, and iconic British bard Philip Parfitt.

"Home" is out now, available from digital platforms everywhere, including Bandcamp. Wooden Overcoat's debut "Hello Sunbeam" EP will be released on May 9

DEAD REGISTER Share “Grave,” New Single from Fiber (10th Anniversary Deluxe Remaster)

April 19, 2026

DEAD REGISTER unveil “Grave,” a new single from Fiber (10th Anniversary Deluxe Remaster), arriving May 22, 2026 via AVR. The track expands into a long-form, post-rock leaning piece built on sustained tension, weight, and atmosphere. It hits with the force of the band’s live presence, stretching time and density into something immersive and physical.

“Grave” centers on the pressure to achieve and the quiet collapse of that idea in the face of death. The lyrics move through questions of purpose, memory, and disappearance. Walk through an old graveyard and the scale becomes clear. Rows of names, lives once held close, now distant. The track sits with that reality and lets it speak for itself.

Marking ten years since the band’s first full-length reshaped their trajectory, Fiber (10th Anniversary Deluxe Remaster) restores the original recordings with renewed depth and clarity while preserving the immediacy and emotional weight that carried the album far beyond its initial release.

Engineer and mastering specialist Dan Dixon revisited the material to bring forward new dimensionality within the performances. The remaster enhances sonic density and detail, allowing the interaction between rhythm, atmosphere, and voice to land with greater physical impact.

Fiber documents a band discovering its voice in real time. Sequenced as a continuous emotional arc, the album moves through isolation, intimacy, existential reflection, and controlled destruction before circling back to its origin point. The anniversary edition completes that arc with “Reverse (Live Bonus Track),” captured during the band’s original 2016 album release performance.

Since its release, DEAD REGISTER have continued to evolve through relentless touring and critically recognized work, yet Fiber remains central to the band’s identity. The anniversary edition presents the record with clarity and force for longtime listeners and new audiences alike.

DEAD REGISTER operates as an ongoing exploration of connection, collapse, desire, and survival. The band continues to refine its approach through relentless live performance, collaborative visual art, and a dedication to creating music that resonates as both personal confrontation and shared catharsis.

DEAD REGISTER is:

M. Chvasta – Vocals, Bass VI, Bass IV
Avril Che – Bass Synth, 88 Keys, Vocals, Visual Media
Greg Meisenberg – Drums (Current)
Chad Williams - Drums on Fiber

Connect with DEAD REGISTER:

Official Website: https://www.deadregister.com
Bandcamp: https://deadregister.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deadregister/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dead_register
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/deadregister
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/625jBri8HVcoflm0i4DOUZ
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dead-register/1105972431
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@deadregister

Enter Shikari Share Official Music Video For “Find Out The Hard Way…”

April 19, 2026

Enter Shikari have released the official music video for “Find Out The Hard Way…,” the central track from their recently surprise-released album Lose Your Self, out now via SO Recordings. The video arrives days after the band dropped the album in full without prior announcement, placing the entire record directly into fans' hands as a full body of work instead of the standard approach of introducing an album gradually, piece by piece. Watch the official music video for "Find Out The Hard Way..." Below and stream Lose Your Self in full HERE

The release lands at a moment when Enter Shikari’s trajectory has never been steeper. Their seventh record, A Kiss For The Whole World, gave them their first UK Official Albums Chart No.1 in 2023, completing a run of seven consecutive top five debuts. The subsequent arena tour included a landmark first headline performance at London’s Wembley Arena, later documented on the live album and film Live From Wembley.

This November, the band return to arenas across the UK and Europe for their most ambitious run to date, including two nights at London’s Alexandra Palace alongside major headline shows in cities including Glasgow, Manchester, and Düsseldorf.

That momentum has been matched by a continued commitment to the grassroots touring network that shaped them. Enter Shikari were the first artist to implement a £1-per-ticket donation to the Music Venue Trust across their UK arena tour dates, supporting venues under threat and paving the way for artists including Coldplay and Sam Fender to follow suit.

Now over 3,000 shows into their career, the band’s live reputation continues to translate globally, with headline tours, major festival slots, and a steadily growing audience. The band return to North America this June for a headline run across the East Coast, followed by a second run across the West Coast beginning September 25. Tickets available at entershikari.com.

Enter Shikari

Lose Yourself Tour

North America Tour Dates

East Coast Run

June 10 – Paradise Rock Club, Boston, MA

June 12 – Irving Plaza, New York, NY

June 13 – Theatre Of The Living Arts, Philadelphia, PA

June 14 - Vans Warped Tour, Washington D.C.

June 16 – The Basement East, Nashville, TN

June 17 – Hi-Fi Annex, Indianapolis, IN

June 18 – Thalia Hall, Chicago, IL

June 19 - Summerfest, Milwaukee, WI

June 20 – Amsterdam Music Hall, Minneapolis, MN

June 22 – The Pyramid Scheme, Grand Rapids, MI

June 23 – Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto, ON

West Coast Run

September 25 – Emo’s, Austin, TX

September 26 – Granada Theater, Dallas, TX

September 28 – Gothic Theatre, Denver, CO

September 30 – Palace Theatre, Calgary, AB

October 1 – Revelry, Kelowna, BC

October 2 – The Pearl, Vancouver, BC

October 3 – Hawthorne Theatre, Portland, OR

October 4 – Neptune Theatre, Seattle, WA

October 6 – The Independent, San Francisco, CA

October 8 – The Music Box, San Diego, CA

October 9 – Nile Theater, Phoenix, AZ

October 10 – Pacific Electric, Los Angeles, CA

SWANWRITER Releases Emotive And Progressive Single, "Betrayal"

April 19, 2026

Vancouver, BC progressive metal project SWANWRITER explores broken trust and longing in the new single, "betrayal". The track arrives ahead of the second full-length album, melodies of despair, set to release independently on June 26, 2026.

On "betrayal", project founder Koda shares, "The narrator in the song suffers a betrayal after trusting the other person with their life. Still, they continue to wait in vain, hoping that the other person will return. This single is my experiment to make a long prog metal track from the album into a 4-minute song with a more conventional structure."

Compositionally, "betrayal" is structured around a haunting piano melody that carries across the track. Koda's lead vocal melody rises and falls alongside enhancing the somber mood. A sense of longing is magnified through the lead guitar line that gently joins the steady and established instrumental arrangement. An abrupt explosion into heavy distortion and intense rhythms unveils further depth of emotion and heightening within the narrative.

The longest track on the album, the lyrics for "betrayal" derive from a horror game called “The Witch’s House”. Following the protagonist's journey, in which she has entrusted her life to her best friend, the game's narrative leads to a path of betrayal.

SWANWRITER leans further into dynamic contrasts both across "betrayal" and melodies of despair more widely. The music throughout aptly conveys moments of intimacy while also blending seamlessly each track's narratives and themes into the sound.

melodies of despair was produced and mixed by Koda, mastered by Roland Rodas, and features cover artwork by 無た｡ / muta.

SWANWRITER is a dark progressive metal project based in Vancouver, British Columbia, created and performed entirely by the anonymous multi-instrumentalist known as Koda. Formed in 2023, the project emerged from a desire to merge progressive metal songwriting with classical composition, atmospheric storytelling, and emotionally driven arrangements.

Connect with SWANWRITER:

Bandcamp: https://swanwriter.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swanwritermusic/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swanwritermusic/
X / Twitter: https://x.com/swanwritermusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@swanwriter
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6unE9CWOXt5c4UIiaHD5RR
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/swanwriter/1686779640
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@swanwritermusic

Southpaw FLHC Announce "The Standard" Out 7/31 Via Spinefarm + Share "Rolling Stone" Video

April 19, 2026

Fast-rising hardcore band SOUTHPAW FLHC — Alan King, guitar; Harrison Linder, drums; Marc Laroche, bass; and Daryn LaMontagne, vocals — have built their reputation brick by brick, focusing on the messages of self-empowerment, pushing through struggle, perseverance, and building a legacy that speaks to all walks of life.

Today, they have announced their upcoming album The Standard, which arrives July 31 via Spinefarm. Pre-order it here.

The band has also thrown another haymaker in the form of the video for new single "Rolling Stone." Watch it below.

"'Rolling Stone' leans into the reality of living a fast life on the road in pursuit of chasing your purpose," the band states. "Losing loved ones and pieces of yourself along the way are part of the game. In the process of moving towards your purpose, the climb feels never ending, yet time continues on. But as a man, you must walk that line in order to create your own path and legacy. In honor of frontman Daryn Lamontagne's grandfather. Rest in power, Pops."

"All gas, no brakes. Driven by hunger, discipline, and a relentless passion for the love of the game. This is The Standard," the band declares.

Southpaw FLHC, who bridge the gap between the old and new generations of hardcore with elements of punk, metal and hip hop, crashed the scene with their self-titled EP, released in 2020. They haven’t taken a breath since, releasing seven singles with accompanying music videos. Clearly, their DIY ethic is strong, as the band also hit the road — and hard. They've shared stages with and toured alongside With Blood Comes Cleansing, Tracheotomy, Bodysnatcher, Surfaced, and Hoods, inciting furious moshpits in every city they played. In 2025, they embarked on a headline run with Cutthroats, Kind Eyes, Unvow, and Resistor. Their hometown roots run deep as marrow, as evidenced by the fact that they headline and packed the first-ever show at a brand new venue called HARDLOVE in Jacksonville. Southpaw FLHC ain't playing and they've established themselves as an up and comer in the hardcore scene. This is only the beginning. Their worldwide partnership with Spinefarm will allow them to ascend to the next level — because that is where they are ultimately headed.

SOUTHPAW FLHC have also announced a later summer headline tour that runs through August and September. All date are below.

SOUTHPAW FLHC ON TOUR:
8/18—Pensacola, FL—The Handlebar
8/19—Lafayette, LA—The Pit
8/20—Houston, TX—The End
8/21—Austin, TX—Come and Take It
8/22—Lubbock, TX—Jake’s Sports Cafe
8/23—Oklahoma City, OK—89th Street Live
8/25—St. Louis, MO—Red Flag
8/26—West Chicago, IL—WC Social Club
8/27—Detroit, MI—The Sanctuary (Crypt)
8/28—New Kensington, PA—Preserving Underground
8/29—Eaton, OH—Mitch×Fest
8/30—Cleveland, OH—The Foundry
9/1—Manchester, NH—Bungalow Bar & Grill
9/2—Brooklyn, NY—The Wood Shop
9/3—Manalapan, NJ—Locals
9/4—Albany, NY—Empire Underground
9/5—Reading, PA—Reverb
9/6—Salisbury, MD—Lurking Class Skate Shop
9/8—Lynchburg, VA—Super Rad Arcade
9/9—Chapel Hill, NC—Local 506
9/10—Spartanburg, SC—Ground Zero
9/11—Knoxville, TN—Karns Community Center
9/12—Nashville, TN—Drkmttr
9/13—Birmingham, AL—Nana Funks
9/15—Warner Robins, GA—The Reverb Room
9/16—Tampa, FL—Brass Mug
9/17—Orlando, FL—Boardwalk Bowl

STATE OF ILLUSION Confronts The Fear of Failure In Their New Video "Death Is Not The End"

April 19, 2026

In "Death Is Not The End", STATE OF ILLUSION consider a number of poignant themes including a literal meaning through a belief in an afterlife, that creativity prevails and the end of one chapter does not equate to the absence of meaning in ones life, and that the impact of art lives on. "Death Is Not The End" is an intense and intricate progressive metal offering, taken from the upcoming re-release of Pluto’s Ghost, arriving April 17.

On "Death Is Not The End", founder and songwriter Jacob Porter reveals the personal meaning of the track, and Pluto's Ghost: "For me, I felt almost totally alone while writing Pluto’s Ghost. I had a terrible case of writer’s block and felt abandoned by something I’d previously felt was a gift in my ability to write songs. It felt like I would never play live shows again as State of Illusion because for two years, I couldn’t find band members and I couldn’t continue State of Illusion as a studio project because I’d lost the ability to write songs."

"Death Is Not The End" concludes Pluto's Ghost, and draws together thematic and musical threads that have been carefully woven throughout the track list leading to this point. The emotional effect is heightened through ethereal moments, and greater extremes of contrast between the fierce heaviness and quieter sections.

The accompanying music video to "Death Is Not The End" portrays a juxtaposition of reciprocal love and happiness found in everyday, often mundane moments, and an underlying darkness as shown through medication and glimpses of suffering in solitude. The narrative of video sees a couple celebrate the happy news of pregnancy while the father's health deteriorates leading to his passing. The song explores multiple interpretations through its lyrics and the video, allowing audiences to relate through their own lived experiences.

STATE OF ILLUSION continues to evolve as a collaborative band, driven by the belief that heavy music can be emotional, introspective, and expansive without losing its intensity.

STATE OF ILLUSION is:

Jacob Porter – vocals
Shandon Fair – guitar
Cody Dabbs – guitar
Gunnar VanWingerden – bass
Bryce Chism – drums

Connect With STATE OF ILLUSION:

Official Website: www.stateofillusionmusic.com
Bandcamp: https://stateofillusion.bandcamp.com/
E-Shop: https://stateofillusionmusic.storenvy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StateofIllusion
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stateofillusionmusic/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/stateofIllusio1
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/stateofillusion
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ItB6evAEFio44kFAbxYDT?si=d66224a4c2514179
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/state-of-illusion/284774718
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stateofillusionmusic

ANGUS MCSIX & ORDEN OGAN Join VICTORIUS For Explosive New Lyric Video From New Album World War Dinosaur Out Now On PERCEPTION!

April 19, 2026

German power metal force VICTORIUS celebrate the release of their brand-new album World War Dinosaur, out now via PERCEPTION - A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music. Marking the occasion, the band also unveils a lyric video for the album’s explosive title track, featuring special guest appearances by ANGUS MCSIX and ORDEN OGAN!

“It’s the most epic and hymn-like album we’ve ever written," the band comments."100% Victorius, but bigger, tighter, and more intense. We’ve never worked this hard on an album before. ‘Only more is more’ and this time, we went all in!”

Watch the new lyric video for “World War Dinosaur”, featuring ANGUS MCSIX and ORDEN OGAN, now streaming below:

Packed with massive hooks, pounding rhythms, and VICTORIUS’ signature blend of tongue-in-cheek storytelling and thunderous power metal energy, World War Dinosaur dives deep into the band’s outrageous dinosaur battle universe. Across twelve new tracks, forged in cosmic steel and driven by pure imagination, the album pushes their sound to new cinematic heights.

Explosive power metal collides with a full-scale dinosaur war, delivering a blazing mix of riffs, melody, and towering intensity. Louder, bigger, and more powerful than ever, the record captures VICTORIUS at their peak, where ninjas, dinosaurs, and pure metal glory unite!

Order World War Dinosaur now at: https://victorius.rpm.link/wwdPR

VICTORIUS aren’t a retro show, but a nostalgic leap into the future. For everyone who still feels the fire of those old days, when heroes were immortal, adventures limitless, and imagination knew no bounds.

VICTORIUS are:
David Baßin - Vocals
Dirk Scharsich - Guitar
Florian Zack - Guitar
Andreas Dockhorn - Bass
Frank Koppe - Drums

For More Info Visit:
https://www.victoriusmetal.net
https://www.facebook.com/victoriusmetal
https://www.instagram.com/victorius_metal
https://bio.to/victorius
VICTORIUS on Tour: https://www.victoriusmetal.net/live/

ENEMY INSIDE Bury The Past And Dig Into A Heavier Future With Their Brand New Single "R.I.P."

April 18, 2026

With zero intention of playing it safe, ENEMY INSIDE return with their explosive new single "R.I.P.", a track that doesn’t just close a chapter, it sets the whole damn book on fire.

"R.I.P." is at its core about letting go, burying what no longer serves you, and moving on with clarity and intent. Armed with razor-edged riffs, industrial textures, and anthemic hooks, the band steps into a darker, heavier, and more uncompromising sonic identity than ever before — a bold evolution that signals the dawn of a new era.

"'R.I.P.' might be one of the heaviest ENEMY INSIDE songs yet. A farewell to the past and everything that once tried to hold you back.” Evan K. & Nastassja Giulia

Driven by the mantra “you cannot control me,” the track cuts deep, lyrically and sonically. Lines like “used to be the echo now I am the scream” perfectly capture the band’s transformation: louder, sharper, and impossible to ignore.

Musically, "R.I.P." pushes ENEMY INSIDE into heavier territory, combining their signature modern sound with heightened force, especially through more aggressive vocal delivery and powerful, cutting screams that underline the song’s emotional weight.

"R.I.P." also arrives with a high-end, cinematic music video, continuing the band’s tradition of visually striking productions that amplify their sonic intensity.

Watch "R.I.P." Below.

The single offers a first glimpse into the band’s upcoming album (set for release via RPM), dialing their already uncompromising sound up to a whole new level of intensity.

To bring this new chapter to the stage, ENEMY INSIDE will join SMASH INTO PIECES as special guests on their April and May 2026 tour, delivering their high-energy live show across Europe.

This isn’t just a release.

It’s a burial. And ENEMY INSIDE are the ones holding the shovel.

ENEMY INSIDE Is:

Nastassja Giulia | Vocals

Evan K | Lead Guitar

Dave Hadarik | Rhythm Guitar

Dominik Stotzem | Bass

Hanno Kerstan | Drums

https://enemy-inside.com | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

YouTube | Spotify | Amazon Music | Tidal | Deezer

Shop

Canadian Hard Rock Trio VON GROOVE Shares New Single "Undefeated" + Official Visualizer

April 18, 2026

Hard rockers VON GROOVE are proud to share their new single, "Undefeated," taken from their upcoming new album 'Born To Rock,' set for release on May 15, 2026 via Frontiers Music Srl. "Undefeated" marks the third track released from the new album and arrives alongside an official visualizer.

Drummer/vocalist Michael Shotton comments on the new track:

"'Undefeated' is the story of relentless persistence. Always rising to the challenge and never giving up. Defeat is not an option. Every day we step into that ring and face the enemy head-on and come out swinging. 'Undefeated' rocks as only VON GROOVE can. WARNING: don’t listen to this while driving on the highway!"

Watch the Official Visualizer for "Undefeated" Below.

VON GROOVE triumphantly returns with a jaw-dropping new album that reunites the classic original lineup: Mladen on guitars, Michael Shotton on drums and vocals, and Matthew Gerrard on bass. This isn’t just a comeback, it’s a resurrection!

Marking their first studio release since 2001, the album feels like it was born in the same fire as their legendary 1992 debut. The opening title-track, "Born To Rock," explodes with the same urgency and swagger as their iconic “Once Is Not Enough” — even quoting it with a subtle nod that will send chills down the spine of longtime fans.

True to their roots, VON GROOVE delivers a masterclass in melodic hard rock, with blazing guitars, soaring vocals, and airtight arrangements. The production is punchy and alive, but the soul of the record is pure 90s AOR glory.

Even more exciting? VON GROOVE will be returning to the stage in 2026, bringing their renewed fire and timeless sound back to live audiences for the first time in years.

Pre-Order 'Born To Rock' HERE

Founded in 1990, VON GROOVE quickly made their mark on the Melodic Hard Rock scene. Their 1992 self-titled debut, produced by Richie Zito and featuring Deen Castronovo (later of Journey) on session drums, remains a cornerstone of the genre. Over the years, they’ve delivered fan-favorite albums like 'Mission Man' ('Chameleon' in Europe), 'Test of Faith,' and'The Seventh Day.' Despite going on hiatus in 2001, the members stayed active, collaborating with rock legends and contributing to major projects across genres.

After 20+ years, VON GROOVE is making their epic comeback!

VON GROOVE are:

Mladen — Guitars

Michael Shotton — Drums, Vocals

Matthew Gerrard — Bass

Return to Dust Cover Outkast's "Hey Ya!" (Feat. Pusicfer's Mat Mitchell)

April 18, 2026

Buzzed-about rock band RETURN TO DUST — Matty Bielawski [guitar, vocals], Graham Stanush [bass, vocals], Sebastian Gonzalez [guitar], and London Hudson [drums] — are ready to shake it... like a Polaroid picture.

The band has shared its cover of OutKast's genre-smashing, 2003-released, Grammy-winning, and chart-topping mega hit "Hey Ya!," which was listed as No. 10 on Rolling Stone's "Greatest Songs of All Time List "(2021). Return to Dust's cover features synth production from Puscifer's Mat Mitchell. Ultimately, they have taken an upbeat, feel good pop classic and given it an edgy, rock 'n' roll makeover, infusing the track with a darker, gloomier vibe — making it truly their own.

Also listen Below.

"Our love for the '90s and '00s music goes further than just rock music, so we made our own heavy version of 'Hey Ya!' by OutKast," the band says.

The release of the cover aligns with Return to Dust's heavy tour schedule that kicks off tonight with a U.S. headline run, followed by eight dates supporting Yungblud before continuing into the UK and Europe, with summer festivals and a support slot on the Breaking Benjamin and Chevelle tour.

All upcoming and confirmed Return to Dust tour dates are below.

Overall, 2026 is shaking out (!!!) to be a killer year for Return to Dust. They have led the rock revival, as their latest single "BORED" ascended to the top of the Active Rock Radio charts and the band won the iHeartRadio Music Awards "On The Verge" award.

RETURN TO DUST ON TOUR:
WITH DRUIDESS + IDENTITY CRISIS:
4/17 — Los Angeles, CA — The Troubadour
4/18 — San Diego, CA — Soma Sidestage
4/19 — Phoenix, AZ — Rosetta Room
4/21 — Austin, TX — 29th St Ballroom
4/22 — Dallas, TX — Trees
4/24 — Atlanta, GA — Masquerade (Purgatory)
4/25 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819
4/27 — Madison, WI — High Noon
4/28 — Chicago, IL — SubT
4/29 — Grand Rapids, MI — The Pyramid Scheme

WITH YUNGBLUD:
5/1 — Sterling Heights, MI — Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre
5/2 — Toronto, ON — Coca-Cola Coliseum
5/4 — Columbus, OH — KEMBA Live!
5/6 — Cincinnati, OH — Andrew J Brady Music Center
5/7 — Indianapolis, IN — Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park
5/9 — Minneapolis, MN — The Armory
5/11 — Morrison, CO — Red Rocks Amphitheatre
5/13 — Orem, UT — UCCU Center

LUNGBURNER Releases New Video "Adamu," Dogma Out Now!

April 18, 2026

Atlanta heavy music collective LUNGBURNER have released their new video for “Adamu” alongside their third full-length album Dogma, available now through Terminus Hate City Records HERE.

Written throughout 2025 and recorded, produced, engineered, mixed, and mastered entirely by the band, Dogma marks a significant step forward in LUNGBURNER’s evolution. Across seven tracks and just over forty minutes, the album expands their sound by blending southern sludge weight with progressive composition, atmospheric electronics, and shifting melodic structures.

Conceptually, Dogma explores the psychological and spiritual consequences of entrenched belief systems. Drawing from mythology, philosophy, and personal reflection, the album examines how inherited ideas surrounding religion, culture, and identity shape human behavior and perception. Each track presents a different perspective, forming a continuous narrative that moves through awakening, rebellion, struggle, and eventual balance.

The album opens with “Adamu,” now accompanied by a new video. The track begins with tribal percussion samples and a call to the fallen angel Lucifer before unfolding into a driving riff anchored by deep bass and aggressive vocals. Referencing the Babylonian concept of the first man, “Adamu” centers on humanity’s emergence into self awareness and the uneasy realization of one’s place within larger systems of belief and structure. The video reflects these themes through stark and symbolic imagery.

With Dogma, LUNGBURNER deliver their most cohesive and ambitious work to date, pushing beyond genre boundaries while maintaining a focused conceptual vision.

LUNGBURNER has performed widely across the southeastern United States, appearing at festivals such as Tampa Doom & Gloom Fest, Gravitoid Heavy Music Doomfest, Seismic Fest, ATL Doom Fest, Stoned Riff Revival, and AthFest, while also touring the region in 2025 on the Fall Into Darkness Tour with FALSE GODS. Additional highlights include opening for BARONESS at their Atlanta New Year's Eve 2025 performance and headlining Doomed and Stoned Fest in Asheville, North Carolina.

Outside of music, all members work professionally in various engineering fields, and none of them originally came from traditional doom or stoner rock backgrounds. Their approach to the genre grew organically from a shared appreciation for heavy music and experimentation, which continues to shape the band's evolving sound as they move toward a more progressive direction while maintaining their doom foundation.

LUNGBURNER is:

Jens Anderberg — guitar, lead vocals
Joseph Mills — guitar, backup vocals
Joshua Broughton — bass

CONNECT WITH LUNGBURNER:

Bandcamp: https://lungburner.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lungburneratl
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lungburneratl
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@lungburneratl
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0WRBgLDbYMfLSrbb3tjNzK
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/lungburner/1724598173