ELEINE Announce 'Die From Within' Limited Vinyl for April 23rd

Symphonic metal powerhouse ELEINE are back with a continuation from their breakout new album 'Dancing In Hell'. The band has announced a limited edition vinyl single, 'Die From Within', which was taken from the aforementioned album. The single contains four tracks/b-sides from 'Dancing In Hell'. In addition to updated versions of "Die From Within" and "The World We Knew", the record includes symphonic versions of "Die From Within" and "Story Untold".

The vinyl comes in three different colors: white/gold splatter, black/gold, and regular black vinyl. 'Die From Within' is set for release on April 23, 2021.

"The loss of someone leaves such silence, even if you're screaming from the top of your lungs and it feels like your insides are being ripped out. As time goes by, you slowly realize that life will never be the same again. It often feels like no-one understands the pain you’re in, and that just makes everything so much worse.

”Die From Within” was born out of loss and depression. We all know what it’s like when you take one step forward and take two steps back when dealing with depression and grief. There are no words that instantly fix everything, but as you continue working on getting back to your daily life, you will get better little by little each passing day by finding the small things that comfort you and that keep you pushing forward. Even if it feels impossible sometimes.

”Die From Within” is for our lost loved ones, and for all of our fans out there dealing with any form of depression. We see you, we're with you and we love you.”- Madeleine & Rikard

PRE-ORDER 'Die From Within' HERE

For More Info Visit:

https://www.facebook.com/eleineofficial/

https://www.eleine.com

New LP 'Dancing In Hell' is out now on Black Lodge Records

ROBIN MCAULEY ANNOUNCES NEW SOLO ALBUM

"STANDING ON THE EDGE" OUT MAY 7, 2021 VIA FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL

SINGLE + VIDEO FOR TITLE TRACK OUT NOW

Robin McAuley's new solo album, “Standing on the Edge" showcases the desire of the respected Irish rock singer to make a strong musical statement in a period that was more creative than ever for him! After reemerging on the recording side of the music industry with guest spots on Michael Schenker Fest albums and fronting the hard rock supergroup Black Swan, McAuley is feeling invigorated and ready to explore even more creative output, letting the world see that his voice is as powerful as ever. "Standing On The Edge" will arrive on May 7, 2021. Fans can get their first taste of the album with the release of the single and video for the title track today. Watch the video HERE.

Pre-order/save "Standing On The Edge" on CD/Ltd. Ed. Crystal Color LP/Digital HERE: https://orcd.co/robinmcauley

Of the album, Robin says, "It was hard not to draw reference from the dreaded pandemic we all found ourselves in, and still do, so I just spat out what I was feeling and “Standing On The Edge” seemed an appropriate title to describe the current climate." He continues, "In contrast to that however, songs like “Run Away” harken back to my childhood years, racing across the fields next to our house trying to beat the rain home. I’m still running all these years later!! : ) Alessandro sent me this beautiful music and this lyric and melody came together quite quickly. It's very simple and childlike and I really like how this song turned out. “Wanna Take A Ride” on the other hand was just me desperate to get out of the house during lockdown and head to the beach. Top down, throttle wide open, and a stiff middle finger to Covid. I crank this SO LOUD in my car. Makes me smile! : )"

"Perhaps this record is not everything I ever wanted to say or record in a solo effort, but it’s how I felt at the time. I’m far from being done. Hope you like what you hear," concludes Robin.

McAuley is widely recognized as one of the great singers of a golden period in hard rock music. His voice can be heard on albums from Grand Prix and Far Corporation, and of course on the chart topping MSG records “Perfect Timing,” “Save Yourself,” and “MSG”. Through these releases, he was introduced to hard rock fans around the globe, who no doubt recognized the inherent talent and skill in his vocal abilities. Since departing MSG, he released one solo record in 1999, then joined AOR legends Survivor, and then re-grouped with Schenker in Michael Schenker Fest on their recent records "Resurrection" and "Revelation". And of course, in what was an absolute revelation to hard rock fans around the world, in 2020, he came out swingin' as the frontman of the supergroup BLACK SWAN, where he joined forces with Reb Beach (Whitesnake, Winger), Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, ex-Dokken), and Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr Big).

McAuley spent the latter half of 2020 working on a new solo record, one which truly encompasses all music styles he is known for. Hard Rock and Melodic Rock superbly performed as only he can do it. Envisioned, overseen, and creatively directed by Serafino Perugino, President and A&R director of Frontiers Records with production (and co-writing) by Alessandro Del Vecchio, McAuley offers up a true gem of an album in “Standing on the Edge". Included are a splendid songwriting collaborations with his former Grand Prix bandmate Phil Lanzon (currently longtime Uriah Heep keyboardist) on “Like a Ghost”, Howard Leese (of Bad Company, ex-Heart) on “Supposed To Do Now," and Tommy Denander on “Do You Remember” and "Chosen Few”.

Robin McAuley’s “Standing on the Edge" is an album that will surely thrill and delight melodic hard rock fans in 2021. Stay tuned....

Line-up:

Robin McAuley - vocals

Andrea Seveso - guitars

Alessandro Del Vecchio - bass, keyboards, backing vocals

Nicholas Papapicco - drums

Howard Leese - guitars on “Supposed To Do Now”

For More Info Visit:

https://www.facebook.com/RobinMcAuleyRock

MOONSPELL Reveals Final Single and Music Video from Upcoming Album, Hermitage

Hermitage out this Friday via Napalm Records | Pre-Order HERE

"What an amazing album, from the nicest guys we’ve ever toured with! I fu**ing love this album, absolutely. Classic MOONSPELL with a slight new flavor to it, it’s perfect."

DANI FILTH, CRADLE OF FILTH

"We’re very honored that a cool band like MOONSPELL covered one of our songs. "Darkness in Paradise" is an unexpected choice, a bit of a forgotten gem, so it’s a nice surprise to hear this. They did a fine job with it, too!"

LEIF EDLING, CANDLEMASS

"MOONSPELL's best record to date!"

NEW NOISE MAGAZINE, US

"The quintet have been flirting with the progressive dynamics of light and shade and harmony and dissonance for many years, but Hermitage ramps up the Capitol-P-Prog, nailing it with Aplomp!"

METAL HAMMER, UK

"A masterclass in songwriting and composition. Hermitage is an open invitation to find beauty in simplicity, while taking the listeners on a journey through humanity’s heart of darkness."

TUONELA MAGAZINE, FIN

"A pure marvel of finesse and atmosphere!"

METALLIAN, FR

"Hermitage sounds like how MOONSPELL wants to sound after almost 30 years of their career. Passionated and gloomy, full of strong and epic dark metal songs!"

METAL HAMMER, GER

This Friday, February 26 will see Portuguese dark metal godfathers MOONSPELL unleash their highly acclaimed 13th studio album, Hermitage, via Napalm Records.

With Hermitage, MOONSPELL is not only approaching their 30th band anniversary more ambitiously and stronger than ever, but they take us on an entertaining and emotional ride through the darkest days of human existence. MOONSPELL’s forthcoming record is a wonderfully intuitive, yet epic masterpiece, and a testament to what the band has always loved the most: Honest metal that binds us even in these dark times.

Building upon its dark, revolutionary and sensitive facets, MOONSPELL’s new album is also epic as hell! Inspired by their metal roots and underground metal bands like Bathory, the final single to surface before Hermitage drops, “The Hermit Saints”, takes us on an epic trip to the heights of the world and the lows of the abysses. Accented by melodic groove and bombastic choruses, this track is sure to become a fan favorite!

“'The Hermit Saints' unveils even further secrets about our forthcoming album: Hermitage,” says vocalist Fernando Ribeiro about the track. “Make no mistake: this is a METAL song played according to MOONSPELL's own signature and rules.

This song tells you about the holiness and unholiness of men, about the duality between saints and sinners. It tells of the fever that makes us cross into the desert of our own existences, perpetually looking out for the cure, that will never come until we change our ways.

Many might go. Few will come back. Lock the gates, behold 'The Hermit Saints'!”

Pre-order the new full-length, Hermitage, NOW!

Hermitage was recorded, mixed and mastered this past summer by Jaime Gomez Arellano (Paradise Lost, Primordial, Ghost, Sólstafir and many more) at the Orgone Studios in the UK. The haunting cover artwork was created by Latvian artist Arthur Berzinsh.

“We know that we are entering the final years of our career as musicians: the winter of our lifetime,” vocalist Fernando Ribeiro recently stated. “We don’t care about people saying we’re still young at heart, or “leading” wolves in a pack. We are not! But we do care about how those around us feel about us, and this album is all about how we feel, our answers to your questions.

Under these circumstances, we feel our musical stakes are higher than ever. For us, it’s not about likes or algorithms, reach, or opportunity of growth. We only care about the music. Music does come first on this album you will hold in your hands soon enough.”

He continues: “The record is about turning our backs to the conventions of modernity. We are currently convincing ourselves that it’s all about us, that we (humanity) are everything. That the world revolves around us. However, ipsi facto, we are nothing and nothing revolves around us. MOONSPELL's goal, on these last turns around the Sun, is to write the best music we possibly can. To tell you a few stories with our lyrics, to be close to you in these times of distancing. We wish not to tease you or to influence you or to sell you our fish. We want to sit down with you at your table and feast together upon our notes and words. Like if we were close friends, like back in the time where music matters the most. In your bedroom listening to music, without having to post our smart remarks about it, inviting the hate in.

Hermitage is an open-hearted invitation to simplicity. To be humble. To be thankful. To serve you solace. Provide you comfort, entertainment. We sincerely hope this call reaches you. That you kindly accept what we offer. That you take our music with you to the place you must feel as yours. To your secret place, to your hermitage. Blessed be.”

Hermitage will be available in several highly limited and collectible LP editions, Mediabook and Cassette formats - all including the Candlemass cover "Darkness in Paradise" - in addition to Jewelcase and Digital formats. The Deluxe Box sold out fast - be quick and purchase Hermitage now while formats last!

MOONSPELL is:

Fernando Ribeiro – Vocals

Ricardo Amorim – Guitar, Backing Vocals

Pedro Paixão – Keys, Guitar

Aires Pereira – Bass

Hugo Ribeiro – Drums

Season of Mist Partners with Haulix for Upcoming "High Notes" Podcast Series!

Season of Mist is honored to announce a partnership with Haulix to create a mini-season of HIGH NOTES, the critically-acclaimed and first of its kind podcast about addiction and recovery in the music industry. The new episodes will debut in March on all streaming platforms. Listen and subscribe at THIS LOCATION.

HIGH NOTES logo created by Nick Ferran

“We at Season of Mist are extremely thankful for the meaningful work that James and Haulix are doing with High Notes,” says Katy Irizarry, North American Publicist for Season of Mist. “We are so proud of our artists and friends of the label who came together to share their addiction and recovery stories, a feat that requires much courage as there is still a dark stigma attached to this often misunderstood illness. We hope to help erase that stigma and, more importantly, that these stories will help those who are struggling to know they are not alone and that recovery is possible.”

Hosted by Haulix’s Director of Customer Engagement, James Shotwell, HIGH NOTES features exclusive, in-depth conversations with rock and alternative musicians in various recovery stages. Guests from the first two seasons include Shannon Larkin of Godsmack, Brian “Head” Welch of KoRn, Craig Mabbitt of Escape The Fate, Eric Christopher of Hospital Bracelet, Clint Lowery of Sevendust, Amanda Lyberg of Eva Under Fire, Donovan Melero of Hail The Sun, Bert McCracken of The Used, Anthony Green of Circa Survive, and more. Each episode delves into a different guest’s journey to sobriety and the role the music business played in helping (or hurting) their recovery.

“At Haulix, in addition to taking care of our customers, we take pride in using our industry reach to educate and shine a light on topics less heard about, like addiction and recovery,” says company founder and CEO Matt Brown. “Our High Notes series lets us tap into real-world experiences spoken by the artists themselves.”

Besides sharing new episodes, HIGH NOTES is also debuting a new logo for use exclusively in their partnership with Season Of Mist. The logo is the craftsmanship of designer Nick Ferran, who created all promotional art for the series.

Seasons 1 and 2 of HIGH NOTES are available now on all streaming platforms. The show is produced by Landon Defever, with additional help from programming consultant Laura Haggard. The show’s theme music is from the band You, Me, And Everyone We Know. Listen HERE.

For more information, please contact Katy Irizarry at Katy@season-of-mist.com.

ABOUT SÓLSTAFIR:
SÓLSTAFIR's music penetrates the mind, body, and soul. One does not need to speak their Icelandic tongue to understand the spectrum of raw emotion evoked by every song. ‘Endless Twilight of Codependent Love’ further solidifies the Icelandic rock giants’ place as masters of their craft, delivering their signature elegance and the unbridled passion upon which they've built their career. While a clear evolution, SÓLSTAFIR also pays homage to their metallic roots. Much like the vast expanse of their homeland, the band once again embodies the ever-turning wheel of the four seasons with their shifting light and darkness.
Buy/stream/download: som.lnk.to/solstafir-twilight
For more on SÓLSTAFIR, visit their official FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, and WEBSITE.

ABOUT NUMENOREAN:
NUMENOREAN unveil their staggering sophomore album 'Adore.’ Three years in the making, the album is a towering work of lustrous metallic art. Its deeply-nuanced tracks weave ferocity and beauty into sweeping pieces that are as haunting as they are cathartic. NUMENOREAN place themselves at the fore of the genre’s evolution with this profoundly moving work of modern, post-black metal brilliance.
Buy/Stream/Download: https://som.lnk.to/NumenoreanAdore
For more on NUMENOREAN, visit their official FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER.

ABOUT FLYINGFOX AB:
FlyingFox AB was founded when owner Erin Lynch decided to take her 22+ years of music industry experience to the next level. Originally hailing from South Jersey, US&A and coming from a long background of various jobs in almost every aspect of the business, including, but not limited to, music director of her college radio station, head of promotion for local record companies, Philadelphia Music Conference panel coordinator, warehouse manager for an established metal label, record company owner, touring merchandiser for several established acts over 19 years, tour manager and production manager over 15 years, band manager, and backstage manager for dozens of international artists and events in her current hometown of Stockholm, Sweden, she decided to take all of these years of experience in several departments, and combine them for an all stop shop.
For more on FLYINGFOX AB, visit their official WEBSITE, TWITTER, FACEBOOK, and INSTAGRAM.


For more on HIGH NOTES, visit their official TWITTER, STREAMING LINKS, and INSTAGRAM.

FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL ANNOUNCES SUNBOMB

NEW METAL PROJECT FEATURING TWO LEGENDARY MUSICIANS, TRACII GUNS & MICHAEL SWEET

DEBUT ALBUM, "EVIL AND DIVINE" OUT MAY 14, 2021

FIRST SINGLE, 'NO TOMORROWS' OUT NOW

SUNBOMB is the highly anticipated new musical alliance between two steadfast warriors of the U.S. hard rock/metal scene, Tracii Guns (L.A. Guns) and Michael Sweet (Stryper). They have put together an absolute blinder of a heavy metal album, melding influences of classic metal bands such as Black Sabbath and Judas Priest with Tracii's love of metal subgenres, specifically doom metal. The band's debut album, "Evil And Divine" is out May 14, 2021. For your first taste of the album, watch the lyric video for the first single, 'No Tomorrows'

Pre-order/save "Evil And Divine" HERE: https://orcd.co/sunbomb

Available on CD/LP/Ltd. Ed. Color LP/Digital. Standard Black vinyl is available from all physical retailers.Limited Edition Red vinyl is available exclusively from the Frontiers' U.S. and EU webstores. Limited Edition Yellow vinyl is available exclusively from Newbury Comics (U.S. customers only).

Initialized and conceived after Serafino Perugino, President and A&R director of Frontiers Music Srl, reached out to Tracii about working on a new musical project for the label, the idea of a classic heavy metal sounding album was born. The music style on "Evil And Divine" is much heavier than what one would expect from these two musicians and is firmly planted in the 'metal' category. While Tracii wrote the music for the album, the fact that Michael Sweet has been writing/playing in an increasingly heavier style in the latter era, and extremely well-received, Stryper albums made him a very logical choice to sing for the band. And since doom metal, often known for having powerful singers like Messiah Marcolin from Candlemass, was a massive influence on Tracii's songwriting here, Sweet's ability and range were a perfect match.

Tracii Guns says, “SUNBOMB was an idea, then an experiment. When I heard the first vocal completed I was blown away by Michael’s voice. It’s an exciting album!”

Michael Sweet says, “Hard to believe that I met Tracii for the first time just a few years ago. We hit it off right away and we obviously share the same love for metal. Traci sent me a song and I loved the vibe and then he eventually asked me to sing on the entire album. What I love about it is it’s definitely different not only for me, but for Tracii as well. I think fans will love this album and although it’s reminiscent of some of the greatest metal bands of the past, it also has a fresh spin to it. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it! I’m honored to be a part of it.”

Tracii leaked the news of the new project in a March 2019 tweet, where he described the project's debut LP as "the Metal record I would have made when I was 17 years old.” In May 2020, he mentioned on "Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk” that "The SUNBOMB record is really kind of like [L.A. GUNS' 2019 album] 'The Devil You Know' times three. It's more on the heavy side of 'The Devil You Know' album. And Michael Sweet, he's a really fantastic metal singer."

Drums on the album were handled by Tracii's old L.A. Guns bandmate Adam Hamilton and bass was handled by Mitch Davis, with the exception of the track 'They Fought', which features current L.A. Guns bassist Johnny Martin.

Line-up:

Tracii Guns - Guitars

Michael Sweet - Vocals

Adam Hamilton - Drums

Mitch Davis - Bass

Johnny Martin - Bass (We Fought)

Follow the Band:

https://www.facebook.com/SunbombMetal

https://www.instagram.com/sun_bomb/

Heavy Stoner Rockers GREENLEAF Release Second Single and Lyric Video “Love Undone”

New Album, Echoes From A Mass, out March 26, 2021 via Napalm Records

Pre-Order NOW!

Swedish heavy stoner rock favorites GREENLEAF are about to draw their listeners deeper into their maelstrom of buzzing guitars and hallucinogenic vocals: The four-piece have just released their second single, “Love Undone”, along with an artful lyric video cut from their upcoming album, Echoes From A Mass, out March 26 via Napalm Records. Their new track delivers an uncompromisingly heavy soundtrack to a tragic past love story, drenched in the hypnotizing GREENLEAF trademark sound and shrouded in a sludgy, heavy journey of extended riffage.

On Echoes From A Mass, GREENLEAF boil over with stoner metal’s finest ingredients: Their main influences are rich with prog and psychedelic impact, adding a rousing vortex to the Swedes’ sonic offering. Heavy desert riffs, sprawling drum parts, catchy melodies and grooving rhythms make their new record an absolute must-listen.

Pre-Order the new full-length Echoes From A Mass NOW!

Once again, GREENLEAF prove that they dare to think outside the box and deliver a heavy roller comprised of Sebastian Olsson’s rumbling drumming performance, fuzzy guitars, Fröhlich’s haunting bass lines, Arvid Hällagård’s powerful yet ghoulish vocals and undeniable, heavy stoner, southern desert and blues vibes. Echoes From A Mass was recorded at Studio Gröndahl in October 2020 by former band member Karl Daniel Lidén, who also mixed and mastered the record at Tri-Lamb Studios. Lidén is recognized for his work with well-known acts such as Katatonia, Bloodbath, Lowrider and Crippled Black Phoenix, to name a few.

Echoes From A Mass will be available in the following formats:

- 1 CD Digipak

- 1 CD Digipak + Patch Bundle

- 1 LP Gatefold Vinyl Black

- 1 LP Gatefold Vinyl Cream/Black Inkspot (Napalm Mailorder only - limited to 300)

GREENLEAF are:

Arvid Hällagård - vocals

Tommi Holappa - guitar

Hans Fröhlich - bass

Sebastian Olsson- drums

Norse Heavy Metal Legends EINHERJER Release Third Single and Video “West Coast Groove”

New Album, North Star, out this Friday, February 26 | Pre-Order NOW

Re-Mastered Version of Legendary Debut Album, Dragons Of The North, out February 26 | Pre-Order HERE

“We're the Norsemen

We're marching on”

Viking Metal pioneers EINHERJER are about to release their eighth studio album, North Star, this Friday, February 26, proving their status as the pioneers of blending Nordic Black Metal and Folk Metal genres into pure Norse Heavy Metal once again.

The album marks the band’s return to Napalm Records after 25 years, and the release of their legendary Dragons Of The North album (1996), which will be re-released as a re-mastered version on February 26 as well.

To celebrate the double release, EINHERJER just released the third single, “West Coast Groove”, together with an animated video. Old school Heavy Metal vibes meet dark Viking Metal atmosphere - EINHERJER are in top form and still prove their status as genre pioneers after more than 25 years!

EINHERJER on “West Coast Groove”:

“There is a massive portion of rock’n’roll spirit in most of the stuff we do these days. As we grow older I find it more natural to let our influences shine through as we see fit. “West Coast Groove” is a solid fist in the air for the heavy metal we love, and to the place that's been an essential part of our inspiration since day one. A tribute to our hometurf!”

Frode Glesnes on the video and the collaboration with Costin Chioreanu:

“We've worked with Costin Chioreanu for many years now, and he has become a dear friend. He's been to Haugesund several times. He knows where we're at and what we seek and I think he portrays this beautifully in this animated movie. My initial reaction was to laugh out loud while the hair stood up on the back of my neck. A rare combination!”

North Star was recorded in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic at the in-house Studio Borealis, owned by founding member and mastermind Frode Glesnes. The raw production ties in seamlessly with its predecessor Norrøne Spor and makes North Star probably the most powerful EINHERJER album to date! North Star is EINHERJER's musical mission towards something bigger - the search for guidance by the North Star in a constantly changing world that is searching for stability.

EINHERJER on North Star:

"North Star is our 8th full length album, and follows in the (Norse) tracks of Norrøne Spor. The North Star is a symbol with numerous meanings. It can be guidance, or it can be a personal mission. Something to reach for. It's the Anchor of the Northern Sky. We need something steady in this rapidly shifting world we live in. The North Star album is us reaching for something greater. Developing ourselves through a musical journey in classic EINHERJER style – no bullshit, just proper Norse Heavy Metal!”

Pre-Order your copy of North Star NOW!

North Star will be available in the following formats:

- LP Gatefold Vinyl Marble Green transparent with black + Slipmat + Poster - strictly limited to 200 copies (Napalm Records mailorder only)

- LP Gatefold Vinyl Gold – strictly limited to 300 copies (Napalm Records mailorder only)

- LP Gatefold Vinyl Black

- 1 CD Digipack

- Digital album

[LP Gatefold Vinyl Marble Green transparent with black + Slipmat + Poster -

strictly limited to 200 copies (available at Napalm Records mailorder only)]

EINHERJER to Re-Release their groundbreaking debut album Dragons Of The North in the year of its 25th anniversary in a re-mastered version.

The seminal work of pioneering Viking Metal masters EINHERJER has stood the test of time and has a legacy that continues to this day. The 1996 classic album Dragons Of The Northhas paved the genres path for years to come and will now be re-released after its initial release on Napalm Records 25 Yyars ago!

Pre-Order Dragons Of The North HERE:

Available as Black Vinyl Gatefold LP, as well as Blue/White Vinyl Gatefold LP (limited to 300 copies), this is a must have for fans of early northern Viking Metal with Black Metal inspired production and sound!

Dragons Of The North will be available in North America in the following formats:

- LP Gatefold Vinyl Inkspot Blue/White & Poster – strictly limited to 300 copies (Napalm Records mailorder only)

- LP Gatefold Vinyl Black & Poster

- 1-CD Jewel Case

- Digital album

EINHERJER is:

Gerhard Storesund: Drums, Keyboards

Frode Glesnes: Vocals, Guitar & Bass

Ole Sønstabø: Lead Guitars

Tom Enge: Guitars, Backing Vocals

BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE Announce New EP 'Live In The Studio' - Out April 16th via Long Branch Records New Video for "Pray To The Creature"

London, UK rock outfit BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE have announced details for their next studio offering. The band will release 'Live In The Studio' on April 16th, 2021 via Long Branch Records. The live EP includes one song from each of their critically acclaimed full-length albums. These ferocious performances showcase the band's huge sound and machine-like tightness as the three-piece thrives in their natural environment - the recording and rehearsal space that gave birth to so many of their monstrous riffs. Fans can check out the music video for the first single, "Pray To The Creature", by visiting the link found below.

Pre-Order / Pre-Save 'Live In The Studio' here:

https://orcd.co/boe_liveinthestudio

Black Orchid Empire guitarist and singer Paul Visser about the new EP:

"Playing live in front of an audience is always an incredible experience, but much of our music was created in a more personal and isolated place. Filming three of our favorite songs in the room in which so many of them were written, thrashed out, and recorded was an amazing experience which we can't wait to share!"

PRE-ORDER/SAVE 'Live In The Studio' HERE

Black Orchid Empire create huge, memorable rock music that combines heavy-hitting savagery with intense melodic beauty. Their technical, fearlessly complex grooves and gigantic sing-along choruses have already earned them a widespread fanbase.

A ferociously tight live band, Black Orchid Empire have toured extensively throughout Europe and the UK, supporting Skunk Anansie on their sold-out 25th anniversary shows, including Brixton Academy. These appearances, as well as previous tours with HED P.E., INME, Black Map, and Ravenface, along with festival performances at Download, Standon Calling, Planet Rockstock, Camden Rocks, and Taubertal, have sealed the band's reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

“Beautiful melodies coupled with tear-your-face-off riffs. Bright fresh new stars” - Skin, Skunk Anansie

“Unbeatable in-your-face talent” - MOSH

“Wicked, behemoth tunes” - POWERPLAY

Lineup:

Billy Freedom - Drums

Paul Visser - Vocals, Guitar

David Ferguson - Bass, Vocals

BLACK ORCHID EMPIRE Visit:

https://www.facebook.com/blackorchidempire

https://www.instagram.com/blackorchidempire

https://twitter.com/orchidempire

Davey Woodward & The Winter Orphans 'Bad Day' from 'Love and Optimism' LP A Turntable Friend Records 22 January 2021

"This music is honest and revealing with depth and a feeling of mysterious purposes – the hair on your arms may stand up as you absorb this goodness" – Big Takeover Magazine

Bristol indie music legend Davey Woodward and The Winter Orphans presents 'Bad Day', the latest single from their 'Love and Optimism' LP. Best known for his bands The Brilliant Corners, The Experimental Pop Band and Karen, they recorded this album 'live' in the studio. A very personal collection, this is Woodward's most emotional performance, putting Davey solidly amongst the best songwriters of his generation.

Davey Woodward and the Winter Orphans play alt folk, often intimate songs set in Bristol. Sometimes they get into drainpipes and pointy boots ‘New Wave’ mode. 'Bad Day' is one of those moments.

Nobody visits. I’d like someone to stay
In my single bed with my microwave
I’m having a bad day.

"Imagine a time when putting together the best cassette compilation ever (Today it’s called a playlist) was the sole purpose of the day. Getting it right would mean the difference between a good day or bad day. It was also the best way to impress girls and show your mates how hip you were. A time when dreaming, looking cool and disregarding the rules was everything. Decades later and life catches up, poverty, broken relationships, broken families. You could make a playlist but who would you send it too?" says Davey Woodward.

Ahead of this, the band previewed two singles - 'Occupy This Space' and 'Warm Hands', which could be a soundtrack to a David Lynch movie. This is pop music for grown ups loaded with dark mysteries of desire and loathing, melody and lyrics that stick in your head.

'Love & Optimism' is the band's second collective long-play, following their 2018 self-titled debut album, released via Tapete Records. On both set of recordings, the band wanted to capture that elusive live magic and spontaneity that is often lost by today’s modern recording techniques.

Davey Woodward first came to prominence with his 1980s band The Brilliant Corners, part of the jangly indie C86 scene, but with a diverse palette of indie pop, country, rock n roll, post-punk and humour. The mini-albums ‘Growing up Absurd’, ‘Fruit Machine’ and ‘Whats in a Word‘ brought the band to the attention of the music press and wider public, followed by their best-known album ‘Somebody up there likes me’ (1987), several John Peel sessions, indie chart success and regular tours. In 2013, Cherry Red Records released a retrospective of the band's work ‘Heart on Your Sleeve’ (A decade in pop 1983-1993)' to much interest.

Woodward's next band The Experimental Pop Band (1996- 2012) was again championed by Peel and signed to City Slang Records, enjoying critical acclaim in the UK and Europe, and performing at Glastonbury.

In the last decade, Davey has released a handful of solo LPs, including the lofi folk pop album ‘6 miles east of here 5 miles north of nowhere’ (2011). He also recorded with alt guitar band Karen, releasing several EPs on The Environmental Sounds label.

The album was recorded in Summer 2019 prior to the Covid 19 pandemic and the tragic events that led to Black Lives Matter, but strangely it is still relevant to these times. ‘Occupy this Space’ seemingly captures the whole feeling of ‘Lockdown’ and the song ‘Clara’s Ghost’ is partly about the history of Bristol’s involvement in the Slave Trade. Just a few months after it was written, Bristol residents pulled down the Statue of Slave Trader Edward Colston in the centre of town, making worldwide headlines.

'Love and Optimism’ is out now, available on limited edition white vinyl and black vinyl, on gatefold CD with a booklet, and also digitally. It can be ordered via Bandcamp at https://daveywoodward.bandcamp.com/album/love-and-optimism

CREDITS
Recorded and produced by Joe Garcia at Joe’s Garage, Bristol
Mastered by James Plotkin, USA
All songs written by Davey Woodward
Davey Woodward - Vocals and guitar
Steve Dew - Drums
Julian Hunt - Lead guitar
Johnathan (JB) Bewley - Bass
Harry Furnace - Trumpet / Cornet
Phil Walker - Violin


Keep up with Davey Woodward
Bandcamp | Facebook | YouTube | AllMusic | Apple Music | Spotify | Booking |

Nick Hudson (The Academy of Sun) presents 'Surkov's Dream', lead single from new LP

“Nick Hudson is a unique talent. His song writing and performances are breathtaking. He is long overdue being heard by a wider audience. This solo album is a peak in an already stellar career” ~ Stuart Braithwaite (Mogwai)

“Scott Walker channeling Coil” ~ MOJO Magazine

"Surreal and spacey... Eerie and wonderful, with great depth" ~ The Spill Magazine

"The intimacy of a musical diary as well as an epic theatrical fascination... thrilling tension between its thematic juxtapositions and arrangements of diverse acoustic, electric, and synthetic instrumentation" ~ No Ripcord

“Genius” - BBC Radio (BBC Introducing)

"A song-suite of liberation, violence and ambition that is rich in promise and dizzying in its potential" ~ The Quietus

"A welcome earworm for any music aficionado and especially those with a taste for highly melodic and cutting-edge pop experimentalism" ~ Amplify Music Magazine

Brighton-based singer-songwriter Nick Hudson presents the single 'Surkov's Dream', offering a stark and melodic synth-based introduction to his new solo album 'Font Of Human Fractures'. Earlier, he shared a live rendition (recorded in Sophia, Bulgaria) of 'There is No Such Thing as You', the studio version of which will also appear on the LP.

Recorded and mastered at Church Road Studios by Paul Pascoe (Barry Adamson, Beat Hotel), this 10-track offering is Hudson's first solo studio album since 'Ganymede In A State Of War' (2016).

This first single features a MIDI instrument constructed from samples made by Nick and engineer Paul Pascoe of the bass pedals of the vast church organ of St. Mary's in Brighton as it narrates an oneiric monologue from the imagined subconscious of Putin's Grey Cardinal.

'Font of Human Fractures' is a collection of neo-classical torch songs with electronic undertones, banishing rituals and searing ballads, scored for piano and two violins, underlined with gothic electronica, with dramatic cameos and curveballs. Musically, Hudson is influenced by Coil, Kate Bush, Laibach, Danny Elfman, Nico and Scott Walker.

This record is a kaleidoscopic and emotionally transparent document of the search for self-worth – and ultimately love – in a thorny, unevenly-stacked world. Scored almost entirely for piano and two violins, this is a ruminative melting pot from the point of view of a queer man in his late thirties. It is like a dialogue with his younger self, negotiating himself free of toxic programming and banishing the inhibitions that can blight, dull and impotize the best of us.

Nick Hudson is a prolific figure on the UK underground music scene and is perhaps best known as frontman of art-rock band The Academy Of Sun, who released their dystopian epic 'The Quiet Earth' last year to critical acclaim. Apart from music, Nick's vast output also encompasses painting, film, and he has just completed his first novel.

Hudson has also collaborated with Wayne Hussey (The Mission) and Matthew Seligman (Bowie, Tori Amos, Morrissey), as well as members of NYC's Kayo Dot, David Tibet (Current 93), Asva and Canadian queercore icon GB Jones. As The Academy Of Sun, he has also collaborated with Massive Attack's Shara Nelson. Having toured 3 continents, highlights include appearances with Mogwai, Toby Driver and Keith Abrams of Kayo Dot, and Timba Harris (Mr Bungle, Amanda Palmer).

As of February 24, Surkov's Dream' will be available everywhere online, including Bandcamp and Spotify. The 'Font of Human Fractures' album will be released on vinyl and digitally on April 30.


Keep up with Nick Hudson / The Academy of Sun
Facebook | Bandcamp | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify | Booking

In 2020 Mastery partnered with COMBAT RECORDS to prepare their first new album in 8 years, Severing the Earth

Toronto-based Thrash Metal band Mastery is the brainchild of the Swiss-born guitarist Markus Armellini. Their debut album, the blistering instrumental thrash opus Lethal Legacy was released in 2006 on Corporate Punishment Records (run by EMP LABEL GROUP/COMBAT RECORDS’ Thom Hazaert) in North America and Sanctuary/Noise Records in Europe.

For their second release, the band recruited legendary M.O.D/S.O.D vocalist Billy Milano for the hardcore-tinged epic In The Key Of Kill, self-released in 2012.

Joining founding member and guitarist Markus Armellini is a new line-up of musicians, including Vocalist/Lyricist Carl Crosswhite (Mortifex/Six Pack of Doom) and Guitarist/Bassist Oscar Rangel (Mortifex/Annihilator/Operus), along with Drummer Johnny Macri (Experiment Specimen/The Unborn Dead). The album was mixed and mastered by Grammy-nominated and famed Metal engineer Chris "Wizard" Collier (Korn, Metal Church, Fear Factory), with cover art created by Andy Pilkington at Very Metal Art.

Says Armellini, “We had a great relationship with Thom (Hazaert) from the release of Lethal Legacy, and thought it would be cool to reconnect with him at Combat for the new album, with all the cool things he and David (Ellefson) were doing. Being part of such an iconic Thrash Metal legacy is really an incredible honor.”

Adds Hazaert, “As long as I’ve known Markus and the MASTERY guys, which is over 15 years, they have carried the torch for traditional Thrash Metal, as I have, long before it was a “cool” thing to do. I have always been a fan of their approach, even as an instrumental band, they had such a reverence and understanding for classic Thrash Metal, and I think they took that to a whole new level on Severing The Earth.”

The album is now available on all digital outlets, as well as physical retail, and the band has released lyric videos for “Severing The Earth”, “Wake Up”, and “Revolution”.

LYRIC VIDEOS:

"Severing the Earth" [OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO]:

https://youtu.be/HvgUfekWFww

"Wake Up" [OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO]:

https://youtu.be/5bF8LXrYAWI

"Revolution" [OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO]:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZzExzw8Jc4&feature=youtu.be

Full Album - https://youtu.be/AvNH6bZdUP0

Mastery was recently named by Metal Hammer/Louder Sound as one of the "30 essential Thrash Metal bands that aren't the Big 4”, which included Mastery alongside Thrash veterans Testament, Exodus, & Overkill, as one of the top worldwide acts in Thrash Metal. Partnering with the revived COMBAT RECORDS, relaunched by Megadeth’s David Ellefson and Thom Hazaert in 2017, Mastery follows in the footsteps of Combat alumni and Metal gods including Megadeth, Slayer, Death, Forbidden, Exodus, Possessed, Dark Angel, and many more.

WEB LINKS:

https://www.kronicmusic.com/mastery

https://www.facebook.com/MasteryOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/Masteryband

https://twitter.com/masterynews

THE UGLY KINGS Signs Worldwide Record Deal with Napalm Records

New Music Expected This Summer!

“Their ability to take hard blues rock and twist and distort it into darker, more unique territories is akin to that of Queens of the Stone Age. THE UGLY KINGS’ brand of power blues is captivating.”

- Classic Rock Magazine on the first full-length, Darkness Is My Home

Napalm Records is pleased to announce that Australian blues-rocking powerhouse THE UGLY KINGS has inked a worldwide record deal with the premium Austrian rock and metal label!

The uprising foursome offers a strong injection of energy and emotion while interweaving catchy riffs and stomping rhythms with deep reaching, soulful vocals. After releasing a first glimpse with the mini-album Of Sins in 2015, THE UGLY KINGS unveiled their top-notch debut, Darkness Is My Home, three years later. The band's latest offering, the two-track EP Gypsy Queen, is another high energy hard rock outburst, fanning the fires of a bright future!

Achieved in only a short time, THE UGLY KINGS already boast an impressive number of shows and have shared the stage with high-class bands like Airbourne, Papa Roach,1000mods and Rival Sons. During this adventurous journey, the Melbourne based unit gathered a huge amount of fans along the way and convinced their well-known colleagues as well: “The Ugly Kings have really got their own thing going on and it rocks! I love all the dynamics, pushing and pulling and then always smashing it out. Great intensity and power," said Joel O’Keeffe (Airbourne frontman and lead guitarist).

THE UGLY KINGS is currently working on their second full-length album – more to be announced soon!

THE UGLY KINGS on the signing:

“It is with great honour and excitement that we join the mighty Napalm Records family! On the brink of recording our brand new album, we feel this partnership comes at the perfect time in our career. We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with Napalm Records and we can't wait to release new music in 2021!”

Napalm Records A&R Sebastian Muench states:

“We are super excited to announce the signing of one of the most talented Blues Rock bands ever! THE UGLY KINGS, hailing from Melbourne, released an amazing album in 2018, Darkness Is My Home, and we anticipate a new hard blues rock masterpiece is just on the horizon! Welcome to the Napalm family!”

Enjoy this energizing blues rock attitude and listen to the soulful tunes of “Promised Land”, taken from the debut album, Darkness Is My Home.

THE UGLY KINGS is:

Christos Athanasias - guitar

Nicolas Dumont - bass

Joel Martin - drums

Russell Clark - vocals

THIS WEEK ON THE CMS PODCAST NETWORK

The CMS Podcast Network, an audio/video network of shows featuring daily hard rock and heavy metal interviews, commentary, and shock jock styled commentary was launched in September of 2020. The network currently features five podcasts: The Classic Metal Show, Shockwaves Skullsessions, Talk Toomey and Aftershocks TV. Episodes are released on the company’s website, as well as most podcast platforms, video platforms, and their social media platforms (big tech and alt-tech). They are also available on Amazon devices and Roku devices on The CMS Podcast Network channels.

Shockwaves Skullsessions (with Bob Nalbandian)

This week, Inside Metal documentarian Bob Nalbandian chats with Armored Saint vocalist John Bush and That Metal Show comedian Don Jamieson for a discussion on their favorite heavy metal albums of all time. 
Episodes in audio and video are released every Tuesday at www.cmspn.comand www.shockwavesskullsessions.com.

Talk Toomey (with Joshua Toomey)

This week, former Primer 55 bassist Joshua Toomey sits down with Moonspell vocalist Fernando Ribiero to discuss their upcoming release HERMITAGE, due out on February 26th on Napalm Records. 
Episodes in audio and video are released every Wednesday and every other Friday at www.cmspn.com and www.talktoomeypod.com.

Aftershocks TV (with Matt Hartnett and Chris Akin)

This week, Aftershocks TV sits down with Glitter Wizzard guitarist Lorfin Terrafor to discuss their latest release, OPERA VILLIANS. They also interview Evergrey vocalist Tom Englund to discuss their latest release, ESCAPE OF THE PHOENIX.

Episodes in audio and video are released every Monday and Thursday at www.cmspn.com and www.aftershockstv.com.

The Classic Metal Show (with Neeley and Chris Akin)

This week, The Classic Metal Show brings their own brand of shock jock talk show/comedy with a heavy metal tinge featuring topics including Joe Biden’s1st month in office, Metallica censored by Twitch, Bon Jovi’s new single review, the possible return of hair metal, old movie makers that can’t adjust to modern movie viewing, and an episode of Judge Akin. 
Episodes in audio and video are released daily, Monday through Friday, at www.cmspn.com and www.theclassicmetalshow.com.

UK Alt-Metal Upstarts VEXED Announce Vicious Debut Album, Culling Culture, out May 21, 2021

Experience the Menacing New Single + Music Video, “Hideous”

Pre-Order NOW

VEXED deliver a contemporary and progressive take on culture!

The UK’s most exciting new talent, fearless alt-metal upstarts VEXED, instantly turned heads and took names with the release of two recent standalone singles – including the fearsome “Elite” featuring Thy Art Is Murder’s CJ McMahon – creating a palpable underground buzz and giving fans a hefty sample of what to expect in the future. Now, the wait is over – the crushing Hertfordshire foursome have resurfaced with the announcement of their aggressive and uncompromising debut full-length, Culling Culture, out May 21, 2021 via Napalm Records.

With their devastatingly heavy first output, VEXED underline their refusal to be pigeonholed into sonically conformist categories. Their instrumental dagger is sharpened by unrelentingly adept, technical prowess, gripping you with assertive swagger and hyper-focused brutality. Moreover, for as confident as they are musically, VEXED is as poignant lyrically. The title of the album, Culling Culture, and portions of its contents deliver the band’s unfiltered response to the world’s latest social phenomena of public ostracism, “cancel culture”.

Facing very personal experiences, Culling Culture is a tribute to hate, betrayal and anger, whilst also reflecting post-modern society with strikingly honest songwriting and heavy groove. Their first single, “Hideous”, along with a captivating official music video, not only serves as a first taste and vicious wake up call, but also showcases that anger can either destroy you or provide real strength. With this offering, VEXED prove the latter.

VEXED on their first single:

“It gives us great satisfaction to share with you our Grindhouse inspired music video for our debut single, “Hideous”. Fueled by the feeling of ‘seeing red’ and having to decide how to react in moments of betrayal and rage, do you let your blood boil over or sit and wait for the killing instinct to pass?”

Pre-Order VEXED’s debut album Culling Culture NOW!

Unrelenting lead vocalist Megan Targett’s vicious vocal assault blending venomously low growls, soaring cleans and razor-sharp rap-like deliveries (see “Fake” and “Weaponise”) is backed by the pure technical proficiency of bandmates Willem Mason-Geraghty (drums), Jay Bacon (guitar) and Al Harper (bass). The warning instrumental “Ignorant” prefaces the record’s menacing atmosphere and provides a flawless basis for smashing wake up call “Hideous” and fiery, threatening tracks “Fake” and “Narcissist”. Ghostly “Aurora” and disrespectfully heavy album-closer “Lazarus” showcase Targett’s multi-faceted clean vocal delivery while clashing otherworldly auras with resonating, melodic rhythms. “Epiphany” blends both, offering a bold message of moving past self-loathing, while superciliously weighty offering “Weaponise” seethes between violent hatred and ambient darkness.

VEXED are:

Megan Targett - vocals

Jay Bacon - guitar

Willem Mason-Geraghty - drums

Al Harper - bass

BUSHMILLS IRISH WHISKEY® PRESENTS: FLOGGING MOLLY LIVE FROM DUBLIN, IRELAND ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

PERFORMANCE TO STREAM FROM WHELAN’S IRISH PUB IN DUBLIN
ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17 VIA FLOGGINGMOLLYLIVE.COM

EARLY BIRD TICKETS, EXCLUSIVE BUNDLES, VIRTUAL BAND MEET & GREET AND OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN BUSHMILLS® “FIRST WHISKEY” PROGRAM AVAILABLE NOW

BAND DONATING A PORTION OF PROCEEDS TO SWEET RELIEF CREW FUND

With the grit and tenacity that have exemplified their history to date, Flogging Molly is excited to announce their upcoming St. Patrick’s Day livestream performance. Taking place Wednesday, March 17 at the iconic Whelan’s Irish Pub in Dublin, Ireland, in partnership with Bushmills Irish Whiskey®, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, Flogging Molly will put on a St. Paddy’s Day party for the record books, bringing the good times, great whiskey, vivid stories, and music of the band – straight from Ireland – directly to fans around the world. Check out a trailer for the show HERE.

Early bird tickets for the livestream are available now via FloggingMollyLive.com and will run through Friday, March 12 at midnight EST. Various exclusive streaming bundles include a t-shirt, limited edition poster, Lucky Bag, virtual meet & greet with the band, and access to a stripped-down acoustic set of fan favorites and Irish traditional songs. The show begins at 12 pm PT, 3 pm ET, and 7 pm Ireland/GMT time, and from there, purchasers will have full access to stream the entire show whenever they like through midnight ET on Sunday, March 21.

Additionally, in lead up to the event, Bushmills® is offering fans the opportunity to partake in their “First Whiskey” program. As a friendly Irish gesture ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, whiskey lovers 21+ across the U.S. can safely order a Bushmills Irish Whiskey® to-go from their neighborhood pub and the beloved Irish whiskey will cover the cost, through Thursday, March 18. Terms and conditions apply, learn more details on the Bushmills® “First Whiskey” Rebate Program HERE.

As we all know too well, lockdown has a way of making even the basics extremely complicated. Flogging Molly’s Dave King and Bridget Regan have been in Wexford, Ireland since lockdown was declared nearly one year ago, while the rest of the band have been in their homes across the U.S. And while there is nothing easy about crossing international borders for a full production live show at this moment in history – quarantine policies are ever-changing as the global response continues to evolve – it’s this reality that we all share, which is exactly why the band felt it needed to happen this St. Patrick’s Day. With the safety of the band, touring and film crew, and everyone on hand as top priority, the next priority was a good time – and a loud, raucous, and joyous celebration of all that we – the band and fans – have to be thankful for.

Says Dave King: “In any house, even in the darkest of times, there’s always a room, a room for celebration. In over twenty years together, this is our first ever show from the Emerald Isle on St. Patrick’s Day. Welcome to Ireland. Let’s celebrate! From our family to yours, Sláinte!”

Tickets will start at $15 per household, with unlimited streams available across 5 days (March 17-21). The live airing, pre-show and after-show acoustic performance will be directed by Dublin-based director Richie Smyth (Irish director of multiple U2 videos, feature films, Guinness commercial spots and more), and Flogging Molly have partnered with global event promoter Danny Wimmer Presents for the production. A portion of the band’s proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to a favorite charity of theirs, Sweet Relief’s COVID-19 Crew Fund, which supports road crew members grounded and out of work during the global pandemic.

Flogging Molly is comprised of Dave King (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, bodhran), Bridget Regan (violin, tin whistle, vocals), Dennis Casey (guitar, vocals), Matt Hensley (accordion, concertina, vocals), Nathen Maxwell (bass guitar, vocals), Spencer Swain (mandolin, banjo, guitar, vocals), and Mike Alonso (drums, percussion). Starting out as the house band for Molly Malone’s in Los Angeles and building a loyal following through endless touring, Flogging Molly has become a staple in the punk scene over the past 20 years, kicking off with its raucous debut showcase, Swagger, and continuing through it’s five additional studio albums. With numerous late-night television appearances under their belt, its sell-out Salty Dog Cruise through the Caribbean, and yearly St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Los Angeles, the band is currently working on the Rise Records follow-up to its latest LP, Life Is Good. Recently, the band reissued Swagger with exclusive tracks, an Irish traditional set, a 60-minute video feature, and exclusive merch in a collectable box set.

About Bushmills Irish Whiskey®:

Bushmills® Irish Whiskey is crafted with care and passion at the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, The Old Bushmills Distillery. Bushmills has more than 400 years of whiskey-making heritage, passed down through generations. The brand's award-winning triple distilled single malt whiskeys are renowned for their signature smooth taste and famous house style: Bushmills® Original, Bushmills® Red Bush®, Bushmills® Black Bush™, Bushmills® 10 Year Old Single Malt, Bushmills® 16 Year Old Single Malt and Bushmills® 21 Year Old Single Malt. Learn more at www.bushmills.com. Trademarks owned by The "Old Bushmills" Distillery Company Limited. ©2021 Proximo, Jersey City, NJ. Please drink responsibly.

About Danny Wimmer Presents:

Since 1993, music industry veteran Danny Wimmer has been producing concerts and festivals, both large and small. In 2011, he formed Danny Wimmer Presents, which now produces several of the largest rock and alternative festivals in the U.S. By combining A-list talent with local cuisine and culture, DWP has become recognized within the industry for delivering the highest-quality entertainment experiences to fans, artists, sponsors, partners and host cities. DWP creates memorable and all-encompassing festival experiences, leaving both consumers and partners with lasting and meaningful impressions. DWP will continue to add new music festivals to its already stellar portfolio, which currently includes Aftershock, Bourbon & Beyond, Epicenter, Hometown Rising, Louder Than Life, Sonic Temple Art + Music Festival, and Welcome To Rockville. Previous DWP festivals include Rock On The Range, Carolina Rebellion, Northern Invasion and more. In 2020, DWP launched the popular digital series Offstage with DWP and ventured into the digital content curation space, promoting pay-per-view live streams.

About Sweet Relief:

Founded in 1993 by singer-songwriter Victoria Williams, Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides financial assistance to all types of music-industry professionals who are struggling to make ends meet while facing illness, disability, or age-related problems. In March of 2020 Sweet Relief launched a COVID-19 Fund, with a limited amount of funds available to be used specifically for musicians and music industry workers affected by Coronavirus. Funds raised will go towards medical expenses, lodging, clothing, food, and other vital living expenses to those impacted due to sickness or loss of work.

For more information on Flogging Molly, contact:

Christina Santamaria

christina.santamaria@bmg.com

Charlie Nieland presents 'The Land of Accidents', a dark anthem to not-belonging

"Pressing drum strikes create a restless atmosphere that’s reinforced by brightly winding guitar lines, and Nieland’s heartfelt vocals as he sings socio-politically steeped lyrics” ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"Brings to mind R.E.M. with both music and vocals right in line with the kind of music they put out in their first ten years... Nieland carries it with strength, his voice like a beacon of truth" ~ Amplify Music Magazine

"Thoughtful and socially-conscious... Neiland brings a message of hope and a vision for a better future" ~ Rebel Noise

"Nieland approaches such subjects with a musical deftness and sonic poise which may at first belie the poignancy of the message he is sending... he balances shards of guitar noise, beguiling electronica and his imploring vocals" ~ Dancing About Architecture

Ahead of the March 5 release of his new ‘Divisions’ LP, NYC-based producer indie music veteran Charlie Nieland presents the single ‘The Land of Accidents’ with a new video, directed by NYC-based multi-faceted artist Hypnodoll, who spectacularly unearths our worldly connection with her expansive, visceral music video.

“The Land Of Accidents is a dark anthem to not-belonging, inspired by a passage in the novel ‘White Teeth’ by Zadie Smith: a dialogue between the thirst for acceptance and freedom. The suffering we feel in our estrangement can just as easily be liberation. “Nothing happens the way you expected,” says Charlie Nieland.

“Written as part of the international performance series, Bushwick Book Club, I recorded 'The Land Of Accidents' to be part of the upcoming ‘Divisions’ album. As Joseph Campbell says, “We’re in a free fall into future… But all you have to do to transform your hell into a paradise is to turn your fall into a voluntary act… Joyfully participate in the sorrows of the world and everything changes.”

Hypnodoll lends some insight into this new clip: "This video was inspired by our beautiful earth and it’s ancient history. Where we’re from can often feel as if it were projected onto us — but in the end, we are all made of stardust”.

To date, Nieland has previewed tracks from this album, including 'Tightrope', 'So Few Have So Much', 'Pawns' and 'Divisions'.

Renowned for tastefully blending post punk, dream pop and progressive rock with sweeping melodies and restless and visceral rhythms, Charlie Nieland has been writing, playing and producing music for decades, with a focus on the atmospheric and the imaginative.

Nieland played power dream pop with the band Her Vanished Grace for over 20 years before establishing himself as a solo artist with a mix of nuanced songwriting and sonic exploration. He is currently half of the literature-inspired songwriting and performing duo Lusterlit with Susan Hwang.

Over the years, Charlie has written 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.

'The Land of Accidents' is available now digitally everywhere, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The full 'Divisions' album will be released on March 5 and can be pre-ordered directly from the artist.

CREDITS
Charlie Nieland: Electric Guitars, Bass, Glockenspiel, Vocals
Brian Geltner: Drums, Samples
Written by Charlie Nieland
Recorded: July-Nov 2020 at home and at Saturation Point Studios (Brooklyn NY)
Produced, Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by Charlie Nieland
Cover photo and video by Hypnodoll


Keep up with Charlie Nieland
Website | Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music

CULTED Announces Two Hour Radio Special for Gimme Metal

From the icy expanse of the Canadian prairies to the Nordic coast of Sweden, industrial blackened doom collective CULTED have long been innovators of creating music remotely, transcending both literal and metaphorical boundaries for over a decade. Michael Klassen and Matthew Friesen were first approached by Daniel Jansson to collaborate on an international project and come 2008, these ideas began to coalesce, with fellow Canadian Kevin Stevenson joining the cult. The band soon recorded and unveiled their first LP, Below the Thunders of the Upper Deep (2009), as well as the EP Of Death and Ritual(2010.)

In 2013, sophomore full-length Oblique to All Paths was released upon being written, recorded, and produced in various closets, basements, dens, and domiciles. After forming a union with Season of Mist, CULTED continued their down-tempo exploration of blackened and industrial soundscapes with 2019’s mini-album, Vespertina Synaxis; A Prayer for Union and Emptiness, which was inspired by the isolation, alienation, and damnation that dominates the rime-encrusted lands CULTED inhabit. Now, the band is ready to unleash their most devastating and personal opus yet, Nous.

Nous was born in turmoil after members of the band endured a period of extreme personal experiences, both psychological and physical. The creation process was informed by disease, death, and the resulting existential crises. Instead of predetermining the direction CULTED would take with their third full-length, the band allowed the music to speak for itself as it came together organically. Nous was a result of its creators attempting to destroy or ignore the egoic (that chatter and everything outside of pure consciousness that attempts to sabotage you of peace and rob you of the moment) and instead, opening themselves up to the unidentifiable and nameless muse of sound.

CULTED further explores their relationship with doom, black metal, and industrial on yet another experimental effort in which the band’s collective agony is translated into something both nihilistic and tangible through dissonant soundscapes. Each song is a nightmare in the abyss, dragging the listener through caverns of inexplicable darkness and suffering.

Exemplifying the themes, meditations, and diatribes of the human condition, Nous, which roughly translates to “common sense” or “practical intelligence,” explores both the religious and conspiratorial processes of the mind within the framework of critical thought. According to biblical scripture, Satan convinced Eve that the most powerful of conspirators - the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - were secretly trying to keep the first humans shrouded in a veil of ignorance, preventing them from becoming “like God” and “knowing good and evil.” Eve became the first in a long line, from Gnostics to flat-earthers, to believe powerful forces were withholding secret information. Nous attempts to know God or the inner essence or principles of created things by means of direct perception. Nous must be carefully distinguished from reason as it does not formulate abstract concepts or argue them using deductive reasoning, but rather, it understands divine truth by means of immediate experience. Thelema of the gods.
To further solidify these introspective concepts, the cover art is an interpretation of the Temptation of St. Anthony who was one of the first monks to retire to the desert to devote himself to fasting and prayer, which is an often-repeated subject in the history of art and literature, especially concerning the supernatural temptation reportedly faced by Saint Anthony during his sojourn in the Egyptian desert. The art encapsulates both the music and lyrical concept, visually.

CULTED is now inviting you to open your mind, abandon your religion, and to join the cult on this existential and devastating journey.

Lineup:
Matthew Friesen – guitar, bass, keyboards, noise and percussion
Michael Klassen – guitar, bass keyboards, noise and percussion
Kevin Stevenson – drums and percussion
Daniel Jansson – Vocals and noise

Recording:
Vocals and sound recorded at Culted home studios in Gothenburg, Sweden and Winnipeg, Canada. Drums were recorded at Bedside Studios in Winnipeg, Canada.

Producer / sound engineer:
Vocals and sound produced and recorded by Culted
Drums recorded by Len Milne

Mixing studio and engineer:
Culted via home studio

Mastering studio and engineer:
John Golden at Golden Mastering in California, USA (Neurosis, Melvins, Sonic Youth)

Guest Musicians:
Jay Gambit (Crowhurst): Additional sound treatment on “Crush My Soul”

Cover Art: Ettore Aldo Del Vigo

Pre-Sales: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/CultedShop


Available formats
CD/Digital/LP/Merch

For more on CULTED, visit the band's official FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, and BANDCAMP.

Blackened industrial doom collective CULTED will be hosting a two-hour radio special via Gimme Metal on Friday, February 26 @ 3:00 P.M. EST to celebrate the imminent release of their new full-length, 'Nous!' In addition to curating a unique playlist, members Matthew Friesen and Michael Klassen will also be present in the chat for a live Q&A! As always, it is FREE to listen and you can sign up HERE.

'Nous' is due on on February 26, 2021. 'Nous' is available for pre-orders HERE

SYDNEY SHERWOOD Releases Official, Performance Music Video for Acoustic Version of "Let Me Down"

Sophomore EP, Headspace, Out February 27th, 2021!

New Jersey based Singer / Songwriter SYDNEY SHERWOOD has released the official music video for the acoustic version of her new single, "Let Me Down." Filmed, recorded and edited by LAMPSHADE SESSIONS, "Let Me Down" is off the dynamic, young songstress's upcoming EP, Headspace, due out February 27, 2021.

"I wrote 'Let Me Down' with one of my favorite songwriters a few years ago after getting over someone I had feelings for for some time. I like to see the good in people and deep down I knew this person had good in them, but I looked at what that person could’ve been instead of the person that was standing right before me. I gave this person every chance to prove themselves and time and time again I was let down. I was so blinded by this false sense of reality that when this person let me down it felt shocking. I think a lot of people can relate to the fact that when you care for someone, you tend to overlook the negative things they do because you’re consumed with feelings, but now I realize it’s important to have one foot in reality at all times. Writing this song was one of my biggest moments of clarity to see that I deserved more. While the song is definitely not in favor of the guy, his actions opened my eyes to see what I don’t want and what I won’t tolerate. Had I never gone through this experience, I would’ve never known to look for those red flags in the future and I guess I have him to thank for this killer song." - SYDNEY SHERWOOD

Download / Stream "Let Me Down" Online:

Sydney Sherwood is an 18-year-old singer/songwriter from New Jersey. Sydney began singing and playing guitar as a way to express her emotions after her brother was diagnosed with cancer.

Since her brother's diagnosis, being a childhood cancer advocate has become a big part of Sydney's life. She has performed and spoken at many childhood cancer events over the past twelve years and continues to be a voice for all children with cancer, as well as their siblings.

Sydney began writing her own music when she was 13, and on March 3, 2019, she released her first EP, Beauty from Ashes. Her release show was held at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, New Jersey. In 2019, Sydney also received a golden ticket to Hollywood from American Idol celebrity judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.

Over the course of the pandemic, Sydney has been writing and recording her new album, Headspace, which will be released February 27, 2021.

Sydney’s goal is to touch the lives of others through the music that she writes, as she takes inspiration directly from her life experiences.

NEW VIDEO ALERT! Heart Healer "This Is Not The End"

Frontiers Music Srl is thrilled to announce the debut album from HEART HEALER, an ambitious new project by revered Swedish guitarist Magnus Karlsson. The debut album, "The Metal Opera by Magnus Karlsson" will be released on March 12, 2021. Watch the new video for the song "This is Not The End"

Pre-order/save "The Metal Opera by Magnus Karlsson" on CD, Color Vinyl, & Digital HERE: https://orcd.co/hearthealer

Heart Healer's debut album, “The Metal Opera by Magnus Karlsson” is an epic metal opera featuring seven absolutely awesome vocalists playing different characters to weave an epic tale. It's a wonderful mix of up-and-coming talent and established artists including Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires, Sascha Paeth's Masters Of Ceremony, Avantasia), Netta Laurenne (Smackbound, Laurenne/Louhimo), Youmna Jreissati (Ostura), Ailyn(Her Chariot Awaits, ex-Sirenia), Noora Louhimo (Battle Beast), Margarita Monet (Edge of Paradise), and Anette Olzon (The Dark Element, ex-Nightwish).

Line-up:

Magnus Karlsson - Guitars, Bass, Keyboards

Anders Köllerfors - Drums

Daniel Tengberg - Cello

Erika Sävström Engman - Violin

Vocalists (in alphabetical order):

Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires, Masters of Ceremony)

Ailyn Gimenez (Her Chariot Awaits, ex-Sirenia)

Youmna Jreissati (Ostura)

Netta Laurenne (Smackbound)

Noora Louhimo (Battle Beast)

Margarita Monet (Edge of Paradise)

Anette Olzon (Dark Element, Ex-Nightwish)

Hear snippets of songs from the album in these trailers featuring each singer:

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Ailyn (Her Chariot Awaits, ex-Sirenia) https://youtu.be/HuFisFWtank

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires) https://youtu.be/URLrsDxoia0

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Youmna Jreissati (Ostura) https://youtu.be/UVOf12z-U3U

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Netta Laurenne (Smackbound) https://youtu.be/uEA6cUUbsg4

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Noora Louhimo (Battle Beast) https://youtu.be/mhvQN8i52zU

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Margarita Monet (Edge Of Paradise) https://youtu.be/C9EwIxU0sic

Heart Healer - Meet The Singers: Anette Olzon (The Dark Element, Allen/Olzon) https://youtu.be/jywQqbvW3YQ

For More Info Visit:

https://www.facebook.com/MAGNUSKARLSSONOFFICIAL

https://www.instagram.com/magnuskarlssonguitar/

TOMBS Shares New Music Video for "Secrets of the Black Sun"

Brooklyn/New Jersey metal formation TOMBS is now sharing a brand new music video for the song "Secrets of the Black Sun," which is taken from 2020's full-length, 'Under Sullen Skies.' The video, which was created by Aimed and Framed.
ICYMI: TOMBS bassist Drew Murphy (HAMMER FIGHT, KALOPSIA) has given an up close and personal tour of his expansive bass collection in a new gear rundown video! You can check out his gear collection and learn about his history as a bassist at THIS LOCATION.

TOMBS' latest full-length, 'Under Sullen Skies' was released in November of 2020. The record has been named one of the best metal releases of 2020 by Metal Insider, Decibel Magazine, The Pit, Riff Magazine, Chicago Music Guide's Global Music Podcast, and others while drummer Justin Spaeth has been dubbed one of the best drummers of 2020 by Sick Drummer Magazine.

In addition, TOMBS previously premiered the official music video for their new song, "The Hunger," which pays homage to cinema's most infamous vampires! The song and video, which was created by Jaclyn Sheer, can be found at THIS LOCATION.

'Under Sullen Skies' can be streamed, downloaded, and ordered HERE.

There’s a line from Mike Hill’s audiobook/tour diary of ANODYNE’s 2004 European tour in which the gravel-throated frontman affirms, “I will always outwork you.” In that case, Hill was referring to an incident in Germany early on during a six-week long overseas jaunt with his previous band. In actuality, however, he could have been talking about any instance between when he first picked up a guitar as a teen and the present. Whether it’s his history dating back to previous bands OTIS, ANODYNE, KING GENERATOR or VERSOMA, his ongoing solo work in VASILEK, the more recent SCORPION THRONE project or his thirteen year reign as the driving force and nerve center of post-black metal institution TOMBS, hard work is second nature and nothing will keep the guitarist/vocalist from creative endeavor and expression. And it’s not just music in which his propulsive work ethic has gleaned results: Hill also is the CEO and roast master at Savage Gold Coffee (a labelling nod to TOMBS’ 2014 album of the same name), the host/producer/creator of the Everything Went Black podcast, host and producer of Gimme Radio’s Metal Matters flagship podcast, the creator and co-host of horror podcast Necromaniacs as well as a stalwart in the print and online journalism world covering music and MMA fighting. His is, has been and always will be a life steeped in dedication and with unassailable drive in the cross hairs. And despite the world being put on pause, Hill refuses to curtail his innate determination and ongoing tenacity with the result being TOMBS emerging with the next chapter in its impressive catalog and growing legacy: the band’s fifth full-length, 'Under Sullen Skies'.

“The week VERSOMA broke up in 2007, I started TOMBS,” he says, recalling how, characteristically, the band started before any dust was permitted to settle. “The initial rehearsals ended up being the bulk of material that showed up on the first [self-titled] EP. The intent from the beginning was to get back to playing music I wanted to hear and to not be so concerned with genre or satisfying anyone else’s desires. It was to do music on a personal level and be a reflection of the darkness I’ve felt throughout my life.”

Formed in the gritty corners of pre-gentrified Brooklyn, NY, TOMBS’ early mandate was steeped in the harshness and atonality of black metal but dosed with trace amounts of the varied influences and inspirations ingrained in Hill’s musical muscle memory by previous bands. “The canon of music TOMBS has created has spanned several different genres, but I’ve always had it my intent for there to always be a certain amount of violence and hardness lurking the background.”
Those early years delivered splits and singles, the highly revered 'Winter Hours' debut in 2009 and Decibel’s 2011 Album of the Year, 'Path of Totality'. Never one to sit still, 'Path of Totality' was followed by appreciable and impressive amounts of touring in accordance with the lauding afforded by critics and fans and the braying of foes, which only served as fuel for Hill’s perseverance. Savage Gold came three years later after which a restless Hill began nudging TOMBS’ black metal base into territories populated by gothic and death rock artists like FIELDS OF THE NEPHILIM and SISTERS OF MERCY as well as avant-garde purveyors Caspar Brotzmann and Live Skull while never forgetting – or being able to – scrape the grime of NYC from under his fingernails. The addition of a second guitar and live keyboards/samples brought a fuller sound and allowed noise sequences and soundscapes to be brought to the live show. It was around the time of 2016 'All Empires Fall' EP that TOMBS punctuated its iconoclastic spirit and thought process. Despite then-being part of the Relapse Records family, the band struck out with the intent of self-releasing the EP in order to retain as much independence as contractual obligations would allow – retaining the digital and publishing rights while eventually licensing the record back to Relapse. A one album stint in 2017 under the Metal Blade banner birthed 'The Grand Annihilation' into the world where TOMBS took broader and more daring steps into buffering black metal with morose melody, sullen death rock and classic METALLICA chugging. Following a parting from Metal Blade, the band – now completed by drummer Justin Spaeth, guitarist Matt Medeiros and bassist Drew Murphy, who are also 3/4ths of New Jersey death metal crew KALOPSIA - quickly found a home on Season of Mist and issued the 'Monarchy of Shadows' EP literally a week before the world went into Coronavirus lockdown.

“The original strategy assumed we would be on the road for most of 2020,” says Hill with a lamenting laugh. “We had a sick tour with Napalm Death planned right after the EP’s release. We were going to record the new full-length before the tour and have it come out in the fall. There was all kinds of tour talk and plans and 2020 would have been a tour-de-force of TOMBSactivity in the United States and Europe. Obviously, none of that is happening, but we’re still going ahead with the record.”

Of course they are. Throw a hurdle in front of Mike Hill and he’ll never shy at rolling up his sleeves and taking on the challenge. Even with the world in shutdown mode, Hill is still brimming with enthusiasm about the input and work ethic of the current TOMBS lineup and how Spaeth, Mederios and Murphy stepped up to the plate in the creation of 'Under Sullen Skies'.
“Everyone contributes on this record and the door has always been open for others to do so. There has always been this misconception that I’m some sort of tyrant always telling people what to do and play. The fact of the matter is that most of the time I outwork people; that’s just the way I am. No one is ever going to outwork me on any level in any area of my life and I was always coming up with material. Now, I have these maniacs in the band who are equally motivated and there’s a whole new life injected into TOMBS. That’s awesome and I love it. These days we’ll try anything and we actually write stuff and throw it out because it’s not perfect. It’s more like a writing committee, which I really appreciate. It’s not just me writing everything. It’s a big difference from 'The Grand Annihilation' which was basically a solo record.”

'Under Sullen Skies' is this lineup’s second kick at twisting black metal’s DNA around dank emotional corners, psychological turmoil and the urban underbelly all of which is unavoidably coloured and touched by the present-day status of life on this here Earth.

“The album’s title came during all this and the sort of post-apocalyptic world we’re living in,” Hill explains. “It encapsulates an overall feeling of gloom and depression which is pretty much how we’ve been living for most of this year. The title was the last piece to fall into place. I remember standing on the roof of the building I was living in at the time on a grey day and it was raining – actually, it wasn’t even raining; it was a half-assed attempt at rain! – and depressing and I just thought, ‘What a sullen sky’ and it just stuck with me.”

The album starts with “Bone Collector,” a furious blast of melodic black metal that shifts gears towards an anthemic fist-pumping slog through the goth rock-thrash metal VENN DIAGRAM. “Void Constellation” takes as many cues from Peaceville Three gloom and doom as it does the death metal stomp of OBITUARY and INCANTATION. “Descensum” mines the various well-worn parts of Ride the Lightning for influence before blasting the doors open with some startlingly spacious chromatic single-note atonality. As the album progresses, further textures and moods are employed via acoustic instrumentation and keyboards as well as sampled soundscapes all butting heads with furious second wave black metal and sly to nods to death rock heroes SISTERS OF MERCY and FIELDS OF THE NEPHILIM, all of the band’s motivations and interests being dropped into the chameleonic pair of tracks closing the album, “Sombre Ruin” and the appropriately titled “Plague Years.”

“‘Barren’ stands out as the song that’s most collaborative,” notes Hill. “Justin wrote the bulk of the riffs on that one, that sort of NWOBHM/SCORPIONS ending part is something I came up with, Matt added a bunch of guitar harmonies over it and Drew’s bass is laid thick underneath. That one is one of the biggest group efforts and one of the strongest songs on the record.

“I explore a lot of the archetypes that are used in folklore on this record, like werewolves and vampires which I’ve always been interested in, and on a song like ‘Secrets of the Black Sun’ I talk about the finite nature of our time on this planet, that nothing is really permanent and being aware of that whether as an individual or as a civilization, which I guess fits in with the pandemic and the changes that are going on. There are all kinds of other people, civilizations and creatures that have come and gone long before us and if you think about it over a long enough time span, everyone’s life expectancy goes down to zero.”

The new album not only sees Hill expanding his creative and collaborative comfort zone by wholly embracing the offerings of his band mates, but he’s also let down the drawbridge to allow folks from beyond the immediate TOMBSfamily to include what he describes as “mad guest spots.”

“There’s Cat Cabral, who does the spoken word piece on ‘Angel of Darkness.’ She’s not a musician per se; she’s more from the occult and witchcraft world. I’ve been friends with her for a really long time and she’s a great resource for esoteric knowledge. She’s also an actress who has done plays and commercials and been in films, so I figured she’d be the perfect person to deliver dialogue in an emotionally deep way, and be good at taking direction. Ray Suhy from SIX FEET UNDER rips the guitar solo in ‘Barren’ and that solo is its own masterpiece, in my opinion. BLACK CROWN INITIATE and former TOMBS live guitarist Andy Thomas contributed a guitar solo in ‘Void Constellation.’ Todd Stern from PSYCROPTIC plays the solo in ‘Mortem.’ Sera Timms from IDES OF GEMINI and BLACK MATH HORSEMAN does guest vocals on ‘Secrets of the Black Sun.’ We’ve got INTEGRITY’s Dwid Hellion singing the chorus on ‘The Hunger’ and BLACK ANVIL’s Paul Delaney also doing a couple of verses on ‘Angel of Darkness.’ So, yeah, there are a bunch of people on there and it’s like a community effort which I enjoy. I like involving people I respect and having them be a part of the whole thing.”

After spending his entire adult life navigating the pitfalls and pratfalls of the industry for expressive and creative opportunity, Hill has amassed an impressive legacy, one that 'Under Sullen Skies' contributes to admirably and irreverently. Like most, the extreme music underground lifer and veteran is probably justified in approaching the future with very muted optimism, but while the world works at screwing its head back on straight, Hill is going to do what he wants to do as well as he possibly can. Uncertainty may reign at the moment, but Hill and TOMBS are still going to do their thing and will be content to please themselves in the process. If anyone else happens to be along for the ride, then welcome aboard.

“'Under Sullen Skies' is a dark and introspective album,” he asserts. “It’s not a happy record that anyone is going to use to get pumped up on a Friday night. We wanted to pull out the stops, go full-on and make a nice body of work. I could care less if anyone likes the band or not because I’ve been through so many ups and downs with this thing that I don’t give a fuck if people enjoy the music. I know I like it, I know the guys in the band like it and we’re just rocking and rolling. This record and the EP came out about as close as I could imagine to what I have in my brain about how this band should sound. The whole trajectory of the band has had each record never quite hitting, but 'Monarchy of Shadows' and 'Under Sullen Skies' have both really come out how I envisioned the songs to be.”

Line-up:
Mike Hill – guitars, vocals, electronics, synth
Matt Medeiros – guitars
Drew Murphy – bass, vocals
Justin Spaeth – drums, guitars, electronics, synth

Guest Musicians:
Cat Cabral – Spoken Word Dialog on “Angel of Darkness”
Paul Delaney (BLACK ANVIL) – additional vocals on “Angel of Darkness”
Dwid Hellion (INTEGRITY) – additional vocals on “The Hunger”
Todd Stern (PSYCROPTIC) – guitar solo on “Mordum”
Ray Suhy (SIX FEET UNDER) – guitar solo on “Barren”
Andy Thomas (BLACK CROWN INITIATE) – guitar solo on “Void Constellation”
Sera Timms (IDES OF GEMINI, BLACK MATH HORSEMAN) – additional vocals on “Secrets of the Black Sun”

Recording and Mixing: Fright Box Studios, Clifton, NJ, USA

Mastering/Producer/Sound Engineer: Bobby Torres

Cover Art: Valnoir

Bio: Kevin Stewart-Panko

Links
https://www.facebook.com/TombsBklyn/
https://www.instagram.com/tombscult/
https://twitter.com/TOMBS666
https://tombscult.bandcamp.com/
EverythingWentBlack.podbean.com

Shop: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/tombs-skies

For more on TOMBS, visit their official FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, and BANDCAMP.