Brantley Gilbert Announces New Album 'So Help Me God' + New Single "Heaven By Then" with Blake Shelton ft. Vince Gill

BRANTLEY GILBERT ANNOUNCES
HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW ALBUM:
SO HELP ME GOD

10-Track Collection Set for Release Thursday, November 10, Including
New Single “Heaven By Then” with Blake Shelton Featuring Vince Gill

Son of the Dirty South Tour Continues Tonight Before the Georgia-Native
Joins Five Finger Death Punch on Co-Headlining Tour

Gilbert Partners with Nine Line Apparel for Exclusive Shirt Design to
Benefit Veterans Through Nine Line Foundation

Courtesy of The Valory Music Co.

Multi-Platinum country star Brantley Gilbert is the first to admit he’s meticulous when it comes to writing and releasing new music, tinkering and tweaking things until he feels he’s found the best way to serve the song and the project.

“I’ve always taken a little longer than most artists, especially in this genre, to put an album out and that’s partly to do with me being a perfectionist,” Gilbert prefaces. “But we’ve been looking forward to getting this album out for a long time. I’ve been blessed to sit down with some of the best writers in the country, and I feel like we’ve written some wonderful stuff.”

Armed with a 10-track collection that meets the Georgia-native’s standards, Gilbert announces his long-awaited new album So Help Me God via The Valory Music Co., set for digital release Thursday, November 10. Pre-save the album HERE.

“In the past, my albums were almost direct reflections, direct chapters of my life,” shares Gilbert. “Whatever I’d gone through since I wrote the last record would make its way onto the new album. There’s still some of that with So Help Me God since I’m a co-writer on all the songs – it’s been three years since the last release and a lot of life lived. But I feel like this album is more of a mixtape of great songs.

“We wanted to put songs that sounded good together, but also songs that covered a wide variety of genre influences,” Gilbert elaborates. “There’s a lot of different songwriting styles on the album. We’re super excited about it, and I can’t wait for BG Nation to hear what we’ve been working on.”

With the release of So Help Me God also comes Gilbert’s newest single headed to Country radio on November 14, “Heaven By Then” with Blake Shelton featuring Vince Gill. Co-written with Brock Berryhill, Michael Hardy, Jake Mitchell, Randy Montana, Hunger Phelps and Taylor Phillips, the album opener highlights a way of life that can often feel like it’s disappearing, as the pace of everyday life continues to speed up.

When they pave all the dirt roads
And John Deeres are dinosaurs
When the last back 40 gets sold
And young boys don’t open doors
When you can’t hunt a white tail
And keep what you reel in
Well, I hope I’m in heaven by then

No, I don’t wanna go today but I don’t wanna live
Down here at a place that thinks that that place don’t exist
There comes a day this country’s somewhere country don’t fit in
Hell, I hope I’m in heaven by then

“We were on a writing retreat in Texas that we do every year, and everybody was out on the porch. I don’t remember who threw a word in here or there and who didn’t, so we ended up with a bunch of writers on ‘Heaven By Then,’” Gilbert notes. “And I love songs like that. It came out of a conversation. A guitar ended up in HARDY’s lap, which is usually a good sign that it’s about to turn into something special. I think we all knew that as it was being written. It came to life that night.

“To have Blake Shelton and Vince Gill on the song meant so much to me. Those two brought so much to the table and gave it a voice I didn’t have. We were all in separate places when we recorded, but it was a cool way for everyone to put their spin on it. They just did what felt natural and sonically you hear that,” he concludes.

As the Son Of The Dirty South Tour with “Son Of The Dirty South” collaborator Jelly Roll continues tonight, Gilbert’s co-headlining tour with Five Finger Death Punch kicks off November 9 in Grand Rapids, Michigan and continues through December 17, wrapping in Las Vegas, Nevada. For tickets and more information, visit BrantleyGilbert.com.

As a longtime supporter and advocate for service men and women, Gilbert continues championing veterans through his latest partnership with Nine Line Apparel for an exclusive shirt design, which will benefit Nine Line Foundation.

Nine Line Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to meeting the financial and specialized needs of severely injured soldiers and their families. In combat, Nine Line is an emergency medevac request and is often the difference between life and death for the most severely wounded soldiers. Since 2013, Nine Line Foundation’s mission has been to serve in a similar manner, offering a lifeline once wounded veterans return stateside.

The exclusive design can be purchased on a t-shirt for $25.99, long sleeve for $29.99 or hoodie for $42.99. For more information, visit NineLineApparel.com.

Son Of The Dirty South Tour Dates

Nov. 3 Hertz Arena Estero, Fla.
Nov. 4 Enmarket Arena Savannah, Ga.

Brantley Gilbert and Five Finger Death Punch Co-Headlining Dates

Nov. 9 Van Andel Arena Grand Rapids, Mich.
Nov. 10 Allen County War Memorial Coliseum Fort Wayne, Ind.
Nov. 12 Rupp Arena Lexington, Ky.
Nov. 14 Schottenstein Center Columbus, Ohio
Nov. 16 Bridgestone Arena Nashville, Tenn.
Nov. 17 Thompson-Boling Arena Knoxville, Tenn.
Nov. 19 Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center Charleston, S.C.
Nov. 20 Bon Secours Wellness Arena Greenville, S.C.
Nov. 22 Amalie Arena Tampa, Fla.
Nov. 25 Legacy Arena at The BJCC Birmingham, Ala.
Nov. 26 Simmons Bank Arena Little Rock, Ark.
Nov. 29 T-Mobile Center Kansas City, Mo.
Nov. 30 CHI Health Center Omaha Omaha, Neb.
Dec. 2 Coliseum at Alliant Energy Center Madison, Wis.
Dec. 3 Resch Center Green Bay, Wis.
Dec. 5 Target Center Minneapolis, Minn.
Dec. 7 Wells Fargo Arena Des Moines, Iowa
Dec. 9 Alerus Center Grand Forks, N.D.
Dec. 10 Denny Sandford PREMIER Center Sioux Falls, S.D.
Dec. 13 Spokane Arena Spokane, Wa.
Dec. 15 Ford Idaho Center Arena Nampa, Id.
Dec. 17 Michelob ULTRA Arena Las Vegas, Nev.

About Brantley Gilbert
With back-to-back Platinum albums and a grassroots following millions strong, Brantley Gilbert’s music has been shared, covered and adopted as the soundtrack to Saturday night and Sunday morning by audiences around the world. The Georgia native who started as the defiant life-of-the-party can still go ‘til sunrise, but he’s also emerged as something far greater: the leader of a massive tribe of hard-working, fun-loving believers for whom electric guitar-shredding, rapping, and twang can go hand-in-hand-in-hand. They call themselves the BG Nation, and when the BG Nation watches Gilbert on a stage, they don’t just see a star. They see themselves. Seven No. 1 hits punctuate his career: “Country Must be Country Wide,” “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do,” CMA Awards Song of the Year nominee “Dirt Road Anthem,” “My Kinda Party,” RIAA 5x Platinum-certified “Bottoms Up,” “One Hell of an Amen” and collaboration with Lindsay Ell “What Happens In A Small Town.” Gilbert’s landmark record Just As I Am clinched the 2014 American Music Award for Favorite Country Album. Earning praise from the New York Times, NPR, American Songwriter, and more, Gilbert has mined a rich vein of conflict between the party and the pew on all of his albums. Instead of toiling in limbo, unable to enjoy good times for fear of Judgment Day, Gilbert fully lives––rowdy friend, man of faith, devoted husband, smitten new father––just as he is. His upcoming album So Help Me God is set for November 10 via The Valory Music Co. and features his forthcoming single “Heaven By Then” with Blake Shelton featuring Vince Gill. Gilbert will embark on a co-headlining tour with Five Finger Death Punch November 9 for their 22-date U.S. run that wraps December 17. For tour dates, tickets and additional information, visit BrantleyGilbert.com or follow him Instagram, TikTok and Twitter @BrantleyGilbert and Facebook.com/BrantleyGilbertMusic.

About Nine Line Foundation
Nine Line Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, dedicated to meeting the financial and specialized needs of severely injured soldiers and their families. In combat, Nine Line is an emergency medevac request and is often the difference between life and death for the most severely wounded soldiers. Since 2013, Nine Line Foundation’s mission has been to serve in a similar manner, offering a lifeline once wounded veterans return stateside. Our goal is to rebuild, strengthen and enrich the quality of life of wounded veterans. “Leave no man behind.” For more information, visit NineLineFoundation.org.

Billy Strings to Play Exclusive One-Night Show at Ryman Auditorium, Sunday 2/26

Ticket Holders for Strings' Two Night Shows at Bridgestone Arena on
Feb. 24 and 25 Will be Eligible to Purchase Tickets for Feb. 26 Ryman Show

Photo Credit: Joshua Black Wilkins

2021 GRAMMY winner, songwriter and musician, Billy Strings, just announced his 2023 winter tour which includes three shows in Nashville and a special stop at Ryman Auditorium.

Strings will headline two shows at Bridgestone Arena on Feb. 24 and 25, and fans who purchase a ticket to one of Strings’ Bridgestone shows will be eligible to purchase tickets to the exclusive Sunday, Feb. 26 show at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium.

This past May, Strings played his first Ryman Residency for three sold out nights and brought a lineup of special guests, including Marty Stuart and Bob Weir.

Billy Strings tickets for 2023 winter tour dates are now available for pre-sale. General on-sale will follow on Friday, Nov. 4 at 10:00AM local time. Full details and registration for pre-sale is now available at billystrings.com/tour. The Ryman show is accessible for purchase by FAIR AXS Ticketing Request only. Click HERE to read the full rules and regulations.

About Ryman Auditorium 
A National Historic Landmark, Ryman Auditorium was built by Captain Thomas G. Ryman in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle. A 13-time winner of the prestigious Pollstar Theatre of the Year award, the historic venue is well-known as the Mother Church of Country Music and is the most famous former home of the Grand Ole Opry (1943-1974). The Ryman’s thriving concert schedule hosts more than 200 shows per year, and the venue is open for daytime tours year-round. The Ryman has also been featured in numerous film and television projects including Coal Miner’s Daughter, The Johnny Cash Show, American Idol, Nashville and more. Ryman Auditorium is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP), a Nashville-based REIT that also owns and operates the Grand Ole Opry, WSM Radio and Ole Red. For more information, visit ryman.com.  

About Billy Strings
Michigan-born and now Nashville-based, Billy Strings is a GRAMMY Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician, who arrived on the scene as “one of string music’s most dynamic young stars” (Rolling Stone). Billy Strings’ 2022 tour further celebrates the release of Strings’ widely acclaimed new album, Renewal, out now via Rounder Records. With the record’s sixteen tracks, Strings shares a more personal and honest perspective through his songwriting, while incorporating his wide range of influences with elements of bluegrass, classic rock, metal, psychedelic music and more.

He's been awarded Best Bluegrass Album at the 63rd GRAMMY Awards, Artist of the Year at 2022’s Americana Music Awards, Entertainer of the Year and Song of the Year at the 2022 IBMA Awards, Best New Headliner (all genre) at the 2022 Pollstar Awards, named Entertainer of the Year and Guitar Player of the Year at the 2021 IBMA Awards along with countless sold out concerts and direct to headline sets at Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, JazzFest, etc.

Billy Strings' forthcoming album, Me/And/Dad, will be released November 18, 2022 via Rounder Records. The product of a longtime dream, the record features new versions of fourteen bluegrass and country classics that the two have been playing together since Strings was a young child.

LISA BODNAR AND WHISTLEGRASS RELEASE LONG AWAITED NEW ALBUM 40 YEARS IN THE DESERT

LISA BODNAR AND WHISTLEGRASS RELEASE LONG AWAITED NEW ALBUM, 40 YEARS IN THE DESERT, AND CELEBRATE WITH A SPECIAL SHOW AT THE ROXY THEATRE, NORTHAMPTON, PA.

Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, which includes Lisa Bodnar’s home city of Allentown, has certainly seen some trying times. Lisa, who’s endured some trying times of her own, has inherited some of that defiantly optimistic, won’t-be-beaten-down Lehigh Valley grit. This grittiness weaves its way through moving, beautifully crafted songs that comprise her brand-new release 40 Years in the Desert. Her debut album, Maybe I Did, was released in 2003 to instant acclaim and even charted on college and triple-A radio in the mid-2000s. The sophomore album, Come Hell or High Water, fared even better, garnering four Grammy nominations: Best New Artist; Best Pop Vocal Album; Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical; and Producer of the Year.

40 Years in the Desert is out now through Deko Entertainment and features eleven brand new songs. The first two singles “The Best That I Can” and “She Kneels” have racked up over 45,000 streams and show no signs of slowing down. “The Best That I Can” also has an accompanying video that was filmed in and around her hometown of Allentown. It was directed by Ace Bouchard, son of founding member of Blue Öyster Cult, Albert Bouchard.

View video below.
Listen to album here: https://smarturl.it/40YearsInTheDesert

To celebrate the release of 40 Years in the Desert, Lisa Bodnar and Whistlegrass will be playing the Roxy Theatre in Northampton, PA, on November 4. As Lisa states, "This concert will be a celebration of the release of 40 Years in the Desert, and also a community event to raise funds for an incredible organization that provides youth, health and arts programs that benefit the LGBT community in the Lehigh Valley and throughout Pennsylvania." Just in time for the Halloween season, they have also released a lyric video aptly titled “Feeding Time.”

Get tickets here: https://lisabodnar.com/shows-and-tickets

Pick up the new album, 40 Years in the Desert, and special limited bundles via https://bit.ly/LisaBodnarMerch

Product Includes:

• One (1) 40 Years in the Desert CD

• One (1) “Best That I Can” Coffee Mug

• One (1) Lisa Bodnar and Whistlegrass T-Shirt

• Watch for music previews, lyric videos, and more on Spotify and YouTube.
  
  For more information, visit
  www.lisabodnar.com
  www.dekoentertainment.com
  
  Deko Entertainment – Art Has Value

Isafjørd Release New Single & Video for "Mín Svarta Hlið"

Isafjørd, meaning literally fjord of ice, is a shining new ethereal post-rock band from Iceland.

Named after the town that both of their fathers came from, Ísafjörður, Aðalbjörn Addi Tryggvason (Sólstafir) and Ragnar Zolberg (Sign/x-Pain of Salvation) sculpt beautiful and desolate pop, as bright and dark as the sub-arctic seasons.

Isafjørd’s new album “Hjartastjaki” is an infectious rush of euphoric melancholy, quiet-loud dynamism, lush instrumentation and unforgettable atmospheric landscapes of song.

Meeting on the road, night creatures of the same renowned Reykjavik music scene, Ragnar playing live session bass for Sólstafir, Addi and Ragnar’s musical paths finally intersect in Isafjørd with a sound that reaches like a stalactite from the past into a gleaming future.

Holed up in the middle of winter, in an old house with a broken piano in the freezing cold, 'Hjartastjaki' is an album of songs that were written straight from the heart, sometimes in a single day.

Watch the Official Video for "Mín Svarta Hlið"

Their chemistry as immediate as the climate they survive in, Isafjørd is a real meeting of spirits, with Ragnar’s sleek and cherubim voice a brilliant counterpoint to Addi’s dusty and aching cries, over orchestrated build-ups of soaring piano and sliding guitars. The catchy and haunting music that Addi and Ragnar create in Isafjørd is at once familiar in that lived-in, well-worn way a great song can touch your soul.

Having both lived in Norway and speaking Norwegian, Addi and Ragnar speak the same language of the heart, as their Nordic melancholy makes for deep and mountainous music. Isafjørd’s songs are sincere icebergs of tundra-anthems that bring to mind Fields of the Nephilim and Duran Duran jamming in a frozen valley, where the creative 80s New Wave meets GodSpeed You Black Emperor. With influences that range from Cardigans, Beatles, early Judas Priest and Neil Young, Addi and Ragnar have struck a vein of gold that crystallizes their own heritage of wide-screen Metal gloom into something new.

Now coming of age, matured into a shimmering diamond of Icelandic pop at its finest, Isafjørd is on another plain from Addi’s own Sólstafir, where their cinematic metal roots have been re-traced into sweeping glacial song-craft. A country known for their honest and heart–wrenching emotional take on pop music with Björk and Sigur Rós, Isafjørd gives a new definition of “landscape music”.

When an album feels like a place you want to inhabit and experience, 'Hjartastjaki' is a journey that you’re going to want to take.

Pre-Order 'Hjartastjaki' HERE

About their first single "Falin Skemmd", Addi says, "This song is about freeing yourself from a toxic relationship and moving on to a brighter future.” Listen HERE

BLACK MARKET KARMA and TESS PARKS present trippy chilled ‘The Sky Was All Diseased'

UK-based Black Market Karma and iconic vocalist Tess Parks present 'The Sky Was All Diseased', an international collaboration rooted in friendship and spontaneity. This is the first taste of the band's eleventh full-length album 'Friends In Noise', which will be released in mid-January via London boutique label Flower Power Records.

This release follows the band's recently-released ‘Aped Flair & Hijacked Ideas' LP, a loaded 11-track offering with a fluid texture of beach-soaked instrumentation. Themes ranging from the sycophantic circles that leach from the arts, desperately attempts to stay spiritually close to a distant love, Japanese folklore, and the deep connection between man and beast.

"Tess and I first met in 2014 when she reached out and sent a very kind message about my music. I dug what she was doing too so, upon her arrival to the UK, we met up and became friends, touring a fair bit together in the following years around Europe. During the downtime, we would often hang out at my studio," says Black Market Karma mastermind Stanley Belton.

"I'd had the groove and music to this song floating around in my brain for a while, but had no lyrics or vocal part. I happened to play it one time we were at the studio together and I drop into my own world when I’m making things up, but after a while I noticed Tess out of the corner of my eye scribbling down lyrics. She started humming a melody to herself and I loved what she was doing so we went with it. I added in one more verse with an different vocal melody and a few lines at the end of the song and there it was - 'The Sky Was All Diseased'. I laid the music down a few days later and recorded Tess' vocals which became the track as you hear it now”

Tess Parks adds, "I guess this was written in 2014? 2015? While I was living in Dartford, a few doors down from Stan. We had a few very nice sessions at Stan's studio, where we pretty much instantly wrote a few really cool songs. It's been 8 years and the time has finally come!!! I'm excited to share this. This song seems to be a reflection on the weather at the time."

Hailing from London and now residing on the South coast of England, Black Market Karma offers a colourful carousel of jingle jangle and distorted wobble. With broader flavours of psychedelia, fuzzed out tones and thumping grooves, their thick and colourful sound is shaped by the use of a lot of vintage equipment. Rooted in 60's guitar and pop music, other influences include folk, blues, lo-fi electronica, alt pop and soul.

Technically nine years in the making, 'Friends In Noise' is a series of collaborations between Black Market Karma and friends. Apart from Tess Parks, this album also involves The Underground Youth, Les Big Byrd / Joakim Ahlund, The Confederate Dead and Ruari Meehan. More recently, Stan has also been collaborating with Pete Kember (a.k.a. Sonic Boom) of Spacemen 3 on a forthcoming release.

As of November 2, 'The Sky Was All Diseased' will be available everywhere digitally, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. The full 'Friends In Noise' album (out January 13) can be ordered on 180-gram coloured vinyl from the label, as can their latest 'Aped Flair & Hijacked Ideas' LP.

CREDITS
Music written by Stanley Belton
Lyrics written by Tess Parks and Stanley Belton
Stanley Belton - Drums, Bass, Guitar, Keys, Percussion, Vocals
Tess Parks - Vocals
Recorded, produced, mixed & mastered by Stanley Belton in London
Released via Flower Power Records
Publicity by Shauna McLarnon at Shameless Promotion PR

-SELECT FEEDBACK-
"Emotive, tender and nostalgic...an intriguing and evocative release that effortlessly demonstrates Stan Belton's spectacular composing skills" ~ Clash Magazine

"A trip you don't want to miss out on... there is nothing ‘extra’ here that is not needed, that doesn’t serve to create a better, more addictive song. This album is bravely and perfectly executed" ~ The Spill Magazine

"Impressive and singular, yet filled with easy and accessible appeal... making music without following fad or fashion" ~ The Record Stache

"Their psychedelic vision goes well beyond the influential underpinnings of 60s rock, presenting a kaleidoscopic array of sonic threads woven together into the fabulous tapestry" ~ Amplify Music Magazine


Keep up with Black Market Karma
Facebook | Bandcamp | Twitter | Instagram | Apple Music | Spotify | Press contact

Keep up with Flower Power Records
Website | Store | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Discogs

Employed to Serve Share "Sun Up to Sun Down"

DELUXE VERSION OF LATEST ALBUM

'CONQUERING' IN THE WORKS

Employed To Serve are set to reveal a music video for "Sun Up To Sun Down", taken from their current studio album, 'Conquering', 

Watch it Below

Guitarist Sammy Urwin says, "This video was shot on the first leg of our tour with Gojira and Alien Weaponry this summer. We knew that we were going to film some footage on the tour for a music video, but what song we'd use it for wasn't decided. After the first couple of shows, we could sense that the crowds were really connecting with 'Sun Up To Sun Down'. We decided that we would try and capture as best we could the energy shared between us and the audience, and thanks to the help of our talented friend and videographer Taylor Baron, I think we've done just that."

"The song itself is about addiction and depression," adds frontwoman, Justine Jones. "The repetition within the song is meant to symbolize the feeling of being in the throes of despair, begging for the day to end and to have some reprieve from intense craving and anxiety, only for it to start over again with no end in sight."

The band will tour Europe with Gojira in February has announced to appear at both Jera On Air festival and Copenhell next summer.

'Conquering' was released via Spinefarm last year to massive critical acclaim; landing #4 on Metal Hammer's albums of the year list and #6 on Kerrang!, 'Conquering' is a fully realized metamorphosis into the band they've always wanted to be.

A deluxe version of 'Conquering' is currently in the works for release in early 2023. Further details will be revealed in due course.

EMPLOYED TO SERVE ARE:

Justine Jones — Vocals

Sammy Urwin — Guitar & vocals

David Porter — Guitar

Nathan Pryor — Bass

Casey McHale — Drums

Anti-Flag Share "NVREVR" Feat. Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop

ANTI-FLAG SHARE "NVREVR"

FEAT. STACEY DEE OF BAD COP/BAD COP 

NEW ALBUM 'LIES THEY TELL OUR CHILDREN'

OUT JANUARY 6 VIA SPINEFARM

Incendiary Pittsburgh punk rockers ANTI-FLAG will release their 13th album 'Lies They Tell Our Children' on January 6 via Spinefarm.

Pre-order it here.

For this record, the band recruited several high profile and like-minded artists to feature on the songs and on "NVREVR", they've partnered with Bad Cop/Bad Cop's Stacey Dee.

Watch the video, which was filmed in Pittsburgh by Josh Massie and directed and

edited by INDECLINE, Below

"Living in a society that values corporate profits above all else is a grind," the band proclaims. "Making the choice to go against the grain in such a world is even harder, especially in a culture that has been brainwashed to worship capitalism as a savior and cure-all. Those who strive to create alternatives to capitalism for the common good garner little attention and quite often find their efforts met with open hostility. This song is dedicated to those who recognize that 'the free market' is incapable of solving many of the ills that plague our society and do everything in their power to put people and the planet before corporate profits."

A-F continue, "Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop is one of those unsung heroes. That fact inspired us to ask her to appear on this song. In addition to being an incredibly talented performer, she dedicates countless hours to the organization she co-founded, The Sidewalk Project, which works to empower houseless communities around the world."

Read more about the song and its deeper meaning HERE

The Limited Edition 'Lies They Tell Our Children' Olive Green vinyl is available for pre-order HERE

 'Lies They Tell Our Children' was recorded, produced, and mixed by Jon Lundin.

Anti-Flag are currently on tour. All dates are below. Get tickets HERE

ANTI-FLAG ON TOUR   

U.S DATES:

11/4 — Chicago, IL — The Metro — ANTIfest (With We Are The Union, Suicide Machines, Gully Boys, Blind Adam, and the Federal League)*

11/5 — Detroit, MI — The Sanctuary (We Are The Union, Blind Adam and the Federal League) (SOLD OUT!!)

11/6 — Silverado, CA — Punk In The Park—Oak Canyon Park*  

12/4 — Phoenix, AZ — Crescent Ballroom (Doll Skin and With We Are The Union)

12/8 – Brooklyn, NY – Saint Vitus

12/9 — Buffalo, NY — Rec Room (With Cancer Bats and Plasmid)

12/10 — Toronto, ON — Danforth Music Hall—ANTIfest (With Cancer Bats, Dilly Dally, Dead Tired, Indian Giver)*

*FESTIVAL DATE

WITH VULGAIRES MACHINS AND MUDIE

CANADIAN DATES:

11/12 — Sherbrooke, QC — Granada Theater

11/13 — Quebec City, QC – Imperial Bell (SOLD OUT!!)

11/14 – Quebec City, QC – L'Anti*

11/15 — Joliette, QC — Salle Rolland-Brunelle

11/16 — Jonquière, QC – Théâtre Palace Arvida

11/18 — Trois-Rivières, QC — Cabaret de l'Amphithéâtre Cogeco (SOLD OUT!!)

11/19 — Montreal, QC — MTELUS (SOLD OUT!!)

*Anti-Flag Only

Alt/Grunge Rockers BLACK MIRRORS Release New Single "Snake Oil" + New Music Video!

Unleashes Heavy Grunge Rock Riffs,

Big Grooves & Addictive Vocals

with New Single "Snake Oil"!

Watch the New Music Video Below

New Album, 'Tomorrow Will Be Without Us',

Out this Friday, November 4 via Napalm Records

Pre-Order HERE

Belgian rock sensation BLACK MIRRORS is gearing up for the release of their critically acclaimed studio album and new masterpiece, 'Tomorrow Will Be Without Us', out this Friday November 4, 2022, via Napalm Records.

Today, the band fronted by extraordinary vocalist Marcella Di Troia, have shared a music video for the catchy new single “Snake Oil”!

BLACK MIRRORS’ second album is a deep, soulful and vividly textured 90's inspired rock record with umpteen layers just begging to be picked apart with each spin, and lyrically, it traverses humankind’s increasing apathy towards the world around them.

Are we killing our own planet? No, BLACK MIRRORS doesn’t believe that we as humans have the power to destroy mother earth. However, as the album cover below portrays, it’s clear who will end up burning – all living creatures, us. 'Tomorrow Will Be Without Us' is a clear statement impacting every single one of us living on our planet.

The album’s grunge-infused guitar lines meld in harmony, giving way to memorable riffs, rhythmic gems, big grooves and the addictive, beautifully unchained vocals of Di Troia. It fluxes from fierce and blustery to often gentle and calming – channeling the flavor of MTV’s glory era of acts like Nirvana, Radiohead, Hole, Alain Johannes, Alice In Chains and beyond – showcasing BLACK MIRRORS’ unforced, versatile and organic talent.

Give ear and get ready for one of THE rock release highlights of the year!

The band’s new video for “Snake Oil” is now streaming

BLACK MIRRORS about the new single:

“Snake Oil is one of the last songs we wrote for “Tomorrow Will Be Without Us”. As soon as we started working on it, we could feel its great potential — it absolutely had to be on our second album! We can already tell you that it’s the first track off our new record. It perfectly gives you an idea of the tone of our new album: raw and wild!

"The song is about being manipulated by someone… then realizing how stupid you’ve been not to notice the game they played to fool you.

“The idea behind the video was to combine the main theme of “Tomorrow Will Be Without Us” with the manipulation story of the song," the band continues, “so Marcellastarted to think of this girl being in a psychiatric hospital room, stuck, unable to see anything. Increasingly, she becomes the carrier of some important information that you get to see at the very end of the video."

Contrary to the album’s title and its evocative themes about today’s society and a world falling apart, tomorrow does belong to BLACK MIRRORS – there is no doubt they will own the next decade, providing us with the finest in heavy rock and melodic grunge grandeur the world of tomorrow unconditionally needs.

"Like all of us, we had to go through a lot during these past years. 'Tomorrow Will Be Without Us' is our answer to all the questions we had during that time, our reflection on the ecological catastrophe we're all witnessing, our thoughts on our consumerist society," the band recently explained. "Writing these songs gave us the strength to go forward and to heal us, it was our catharsis. We deeply hope it will bring you some light in these dark times."

Together with the touch of worldwide-acclaimed producer Alain Johannes (Eagles of Death Metal, Queens of The Stone Age, Arctic Monkeys, No Doubt), BLACK MIRRORS have reset the bar to unexpected heights, and their new album promises to leave its mark on today’s rock scene worldwide!

One can be sure, the music world of tomorrow would be a lonely place without BLACK MIRRORS, and 'Tomorrow Will Be Without Us' locks them at the top!

Pre-Order Tomorrow Will Be Without Us HERE!

'Tomorrow Will Be Without Us' will be available in the following formats:

=>CD Digisleeve

=>LP Gatefold BLACK

=>LP Gatefold Marbled BLACK/GOLD (ltd. 300)

=>Digital Album

Frontiers Music Srl Welcomes Scream Maker to the Label

FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL WELCOMES

SCREAM MAKER TO THE LABEL

POLISH HEAVY METALLERS WORKING

ON NEW ALBUM FOR 2023

REISSUE OF 'BLOODKING' OUT DECEMBER 9, 2022

Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to announce the signing of Polish heavy metal band Scream Maker to the label! The band is currently working on a new studio album, which is anticipated for release in 2023.

In the meantime, Frontiers will reissue the band's latest album, 'Bloodking' on December 9, 2022, on CD/Digital.

Watch the video for the title track below

Pre-order/save "Bloodking" HERE

Scream Maker formed in Warsaw, Poland in late 2010 when the original members, including current member Michał Wrona (guitar), gathered together out of a shared love of heavy metal. Wrona is joined in the current incarnation of Scream Maker by vocalist Sebastian Stodolak, bassist Jan Radosz, drummer Tomek Sobieszek, and guitarist Bartosz Ziółkowski.

Scream Maker has produced three full-length studio albums (2014's 'Livin In The Past', 2016's 'Back Against The World', 2022's 'Bloodking'), plus one EP ('We Are Not The Same') and played over 300 shows in Poland and abroad, including gigs with luminaries such as Judas Priest, Motörhead, Megadeth, Saxon, Slayer, Nightwish, Primal Fear, Stratovarius, Onslaught, and many more.

The band recorded their debut album, 'Livin In The Past' with producer Alessandro del Vecchio (JORN, Hardline, Revolution Saints) and the album featured guest appearances from Jordan Rudess of Dream Theater and Wojciech Hoffmann of Turbo. The album was released by Perris Records in April of 2014 in the U.S. and Europe and followed by a tour that included shows with Primal Fear, Paul Di'anno, Blaze Bayley, and more.

In May 2014, the band toured China for the first time, playing six festivals and unexpectedly becoming the first Polish artist to have an album released by a domestic record label in China.

In the summer and autumn of 2015, between gigs with Saxon, Black Label Society, and Motörhead, Scream Maker gathered at HEAR Studio in Warsaw to record their second album, 'Back Against The World'. The album was crafted under the guidance of Radoslaw Kordowski, as well as, once again, Alessandro Del Vecchio. The album was released in May 2016 and once again the band got busy playing shows in support of the album, including shows with Megadeth, KORN, Slayer, another tour of China (their third, but not last, as China has become a regular touring destination for the band), as well as the third edition of the Ronnie James Dio Memorial that they had started pack in 2014, but this time, the tribute included several shows.

The band would organize a fourth edition of the Ronnie James Dio Memorial in spring 2017 and in December 2017, the band opened the first ever Polish concert by the Dio Returns tour. Scream Maker has continued with the Ronnie James Dio Memorial shows as the years have gone on, turning it into a regular tradition.

Once the global pandemic hit in 2020 and slowed the band's regular busy touring schedule, they focused on fine-tuning and recording material for their third full-length album, 'BloodKing', which was released in January 2022. The album was mixed by Tomasz "Zed" Zalewski, with two songs, "When Our Fight Is Over" and "Hitting The Wall" being mixed by Alessandro Del Vecchio and was very well received by both fans and critics, with Metal Hammer Poland giving it a glowing review.

With touring opening back up, the band got busy playing gigs again and in early September 2022, they have planned their own two-day festival in Warsaw (with Polish legends Turbo headlining), which will also include another edition of the Ronnie James Dio Memorial.

In the fall of 2022, the band will embark on another tour with the Ronnie James Dio Memorial, after which they will devote themselves to writing and recording their fourth full-length album.

LINE-UP:

Sebastian Stodolak – vocals

Michał Wrona – guitar

Bartosz Ziółkowski - guitar

Jan Radosz – bass

Tomasz Sobieszek – drums

Death Metal Unit CRYPTA to Support Morbid Angel & Revocation on 2023 USA Tour

Catch CRYPTA on their Very First US Tour!

Beginning March 15 in Pensacola, FL

Tickets On Sale Friday

New Album, 'Echoes Of The Soul' &

'Echoes Of The Soul: Special Edition' 

Out Now | Order HERE

Brazilian death metal trailblazers CRYPTA dropped one of the most impactful metal debuts of 2021 with 'Echoes Of The Soul', subsequently hitting the US Current Hard Music Albums chart at #15 and Canadian Hard Music Albums chart at #13, amongst others, and receiving massive acclaim from media and fans alike.

Now, this unstoppable force is preparing to tour the USA for the very first time, supporting a massive line-up!

CRYPTA are thrilled to be featured as support on all dates of the upcoming USA headline tour of death metal legends Morbid Angel, featuring direct support from Revocation.

Additional support on select dates will come from Skeletal Remains and Vitriol.

The tour will begin in Pensacola, FL on March 15 and visit countless major cities before ending on April 22 back in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Tickets go on sale this Friday, November 4 at 10:00am ET.

CRYPTA 2023 USA Tour Dates w/ Morbid Angel, Revocation & More

March 15 - Pensacola, FL - Vinyl

March 17 - Houston, TX - Rise

March 18 - Dallas, TX - Amplified Live

March 19 - Austin, TX - Come And Take It Live

March 21 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee Theater

March 23 - Reno, NV - Virginia Street Brewhouse

March 24 - San Francisco, CA - Great American

March 25 - San Diego, CA - Brick By Brick

March 26 - Los Angeles, CA - The Regent

March 28 - Denver, CO - Oriental Theater

March 30 - Milwaukee, WI - The Rave

March 31 - Belvidere, IL - Apollo Theater

April 1 - Joliet, IL - The Forge

April 2 - Hobart, IN - The Art Theater

April 4 - Ft Wayne, IN - Piere's

April 6 - Flint, MI - Machine Shop

April 7 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverfront Live

April 8 - Columbus, OH - The King Of Clubs

April 9 - Pittsburgh, PA - Jergel’s

April 11 - New York, NY - Gramercy Theater

April 12 - Philadelphia, PA - Warehouse On Watts

April 14 - Albany, NY - Empire Live

April 15 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium

April 16 - Baltimore, MD - Soundstage

April 18 - Knoxville, TN - The Concourse

April 19 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade

April 21 - Tampa, FL - Orpheum

April 22 - Ft Lauderdale, FL - Culture Room

CRYPTA's Fernanda Lira says:

"We are beyond excited for our first tour ever in the USA - we know they're one of our most solid fanbases around the world and we've been working so hard to finally be able to meet them all on the road! Besides that, Morbid Angel is one of our main influences and the whole package is simply killer - can it get any more special than that? We don't think so!!!"

Formed in June 2019, CRYPTA's four-piece line up consists of vocalist and bassist Fernanda Lira and Luana Dametto on drums (both former members of thrash metal frontrunners NERVOSA), plus supremely talented guitarists Tainá Bergamaschi (Ex-Hagbard) and newest addition Jéssica di Falchi.

They enforce a heightened level of potency and experience from their successful past and current projects, enhancing influences from both classic and modern death metal genres, plus significant extreme and black metal elements, to create a sound of their own.

Recorded in January 2021 at the Family Mob Studio (Brazil), mixed by Arthur Rizk(DCode Orange, Powertrip etc.) and mastered by the famed Jens Bogren (Opeth, Dimmu Borgir, Sepultura etc.), the band's debut album, 'Echoes Of The Soul', descended upon the earth like an apocalyptic meteor.

The cover artwork was created by Wes Benscoter, who is recognized internationally for his stunning cover art created for bands such as Slayer, Kreator, Black Sabbath and many more.

Order Echoes Of The Soul + Echoes Of The Soul: Special Edition HERE

CRYPTA are:

Fernanda Lira – Vocals, Bass

Jéssica di Falchi – GuitarW

Tainá Bergamaschi – Guitar

Luana Dametto – Drums

Darius Rucker Joins "TODAY" for Exclusive Announcement This Friday, 11/4; Guest Stars on "Big Sky: Deadly Trails" Tonight

TUNE IN: DARIUS RUCKER JOINS NBC’S “TODAY” TO CELEBRATE MAJOR MILESTONES & MAKE EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENT THIS FRIDAY, NOV. 4

Rucker Also Set to Make Guest Appearance on ABC’s “Big Sky: Deadly Trails” Tonight, Nov. 2, at 10 p.m.

Photo Credit: ABC/Michael Moriatis

Having recently celebrated the Diamond-certification of “Wagon Wheel” as well as his 10 No. 1 Country singles, three-time GRAMMY Award winner Darius Rucker joins “TODAY” anchor Craig Melvin this Friday, Nov. 4, to discuss the significance of such major milestones and to reveal an exclusive update about his forthcoming new music. Tune in to NBC in the 8 a.m. ET and 9 a.m. ET hours to watch the interview.

Rucker will also make his return as an actor during tonight’s episode of “Big Sky: Deadly Trails” on ABC. In the role of Possum, Rucker guest stars as a hired gun who works at night like his nocturnal namesake, partnering with expert tracker Tex (Lyle Lovett), for better or worse, on this particular job. Centered around private detective Cassie Dewell (Kylie Bunbury), undersheriff Jenny Hoyt (Katheryn Winnick) and newly appointed sheriff Beau Arlen (Jensen Ackles) as they maintain order in Helena, Mont. with their unparalleled investigative skills, “Big Sky: Deadly Trails” features a local backcountry trip led by charismatic outfitter Sunny Barnes (Reba McEntire) gone awry, as the trio faces their most formidable mystery yet – in which no camper can be trusted and where danger lurks around every jagged rock and gnarled tree. Tune in at 10 p.m. ET/PT to watch the drama unfold.

For more information, visit DariusRucker.com and follow on social media @DariusRucker.

About Darius Rucker
Rucker first achieved multi-Platinum status in the music industry as lead singer and rhythm guitarist of the GRAMMY Award-winning band Hootie & the Blowfish, who have sold more than 25 million albums worldwide including their Double Diamond-certified (21x Platinum) debut Cracked Rear View, which remains among the Top 10 best-selling studio albums of all time. Since releasing his first Country album in 2008, Rucker has earned a whole new legion of fans with four No. 1 albums on the Billboard Country chart, including RIAA Platinum-certified Learn to Live and True Believers, plus 10 No. 1 singles at Country radio and 11 Gold, Platinum or multi-Platinum certified hits. Rucker was inducted as a Grand Ole Opry member in 2012 and in 2014 he won his third career GRAMMY Award for Best Solo Country Performance with his Diamond-certified (11x Platinum) version of Old Crow Medicine Show’s “Wagon Wheel,” one of the Top 5 best-selling Country songs of all time. He co-hosted the 54th annual CMA Awards in 2020 and topped the charts at Country radio once again with “Beers And Sunshine” in 2021. New songs “Same Beer Different Problem” and “Ol’Church Hymn” (featuring Chapel Hart) are available everywhere now as Rucker puts the finishing touches on a forthcoming album.

As a lifelong philanthropist, Rucker co-chaired the capital campaign that generated $150 million to help build the new MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital in his hometown of Charleston, S.C. and has raised over $3 million for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through his annual Darius & Friends benefit concert and golf tournament. In addition, Rucker has advocated for over 200 charitable causes supporting public education and junior golf programs in South Carolina through the Hootie & the Blowfish Foundation and serves as a National Chair for the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tenn. Rucker is also an avid sports fan, with his NFL x Darius Rucker Collection by Fanatics apparel line available at NFLshop.com, and he is part of the Music City Baseball investment group working to bring an MLB team to Tennessee in addition to serving as a partner at the MGC Sports & Entertainment agency.

THY CATAFALQUE Shares New Live Video for "Fekete Mezők"

In August 2021, Avant Garde collective THY CATAFALQUE took the stage for the very first time during the Fekete Zaj festival in Hungary. Mastermind and humble genius Tamás Kátai rallied 26 eclectic musicians to lend their talents toward performing 15 songs from Thy Catafalque’s expansive discography. This unique and mind-blowing performance was captured on film and will be available to the world via Blu-Ray on November 25, 2022 via Season of Mist! The band is now sharing the live clip for the song, ""Fekete Mezők," which can be seen below.

Kátai comments: "Last August a unique and magical event took place at Fekete Zaj Festival. 26 musicians performed 15 Thy Catafalque songs in front of a sold out festival and sparked the live carnation of the project that had been a mere studio entity for 23 years. The concert has been recorded and will be released in November. Re-live the night - this will never happen again in such form."

Besides the Blu-ray, THY CATAFALQUE announced limited vinyl editions of the 'Rengeteg' (2011) and 'Meta' (2016) re-issues. Pre-orders for the Blu-ray and re-issues are now live HERE.

The very first live show of THY CATAFALQUE was recorded in August 2021, during the Fekete Zaj festival in Hungary. 26 Musicians performed 15 songs from Thy Catafalque’s discography which is now captured on this unique Blu-ray ‘Mezolit - Live at Fekete Zaj’!

THY CATAFALQUE’s humble genius Tamás Kátai abandons any and all prenotions of tradition. Intertwining elements from a vast swath of unrelated genres, from jazz to pop to folk, and everything in between, THY CATAFALQUE masterfully crafts an eclectic sound that breaks down any generic barriers or borders. Following the massive success of 2020’s critically-acclaimed ‘Naiv,’ the entity returns with ‘Vadak,’ another esoteric monument in its already storied catalog.

Meaning “Wildlings” in Hungarian, the album title is a deliberate clue to the exotic and feral essence of ‘Vadak.’ Like seedlings scattered throughout the forest by the mere forces of nature, THY CATAFALQUE’s imaginative sound grows with an organic sense of whimsy, cultivated within the vast influences of our megacosm. Thematically, ‘Vadak’ is a foreboding lesson in mortality. Emphasizing the fragility that is shared by man and beast alike, the record explores our Freudian life instincts, in which we inherently fear and run from the ultimate goal of existence: death.

Originally, THY CATAFALQUE emerged as a black metal band founded by singer/keyboard player Tamás Kátai with the aid of guitarist/bassist János Juhász. Following their joined debut 'Sublunary Tragedies' (1999), the Hungarians evolved into quite different directions, but steadily gaining more followers in the process through the following albums, 'Microcosmos' (2001) and the self-released 'Tűnő idő tárlat' (2004).

On their fourth full-length, 'Róka hasa Rádió' (2009), THY CATAFALQUEinvited Ágnes Tóth from neo-folk outfit THE MOON AND THE NIGHTSPIRIT and Attila Bakos to add their haunting vocals. With fifth album 'Rengeteg' (2011), Tamás Kátai finally went solo with the help of guest musicians that again included Ágnes Tóth an Attila Bakos. Dubbing his eclectic musical amalgamation avant-garde metal, the Hungarian explored new sonic possibilities with 'Sgùrr' (2015). The sixth full-length turned out to be slightly more complex than its successor, 'Meta' (2016), which returned to a more direct approach without losing the steadily growing sonic diversity. In 2018, THY CATAFALQUE continued this path with the release of ‘Geometria’. THY CATAFALQUE delivered another spectacular musical mosaic with their ninth full-length entitled ‘Naiv’, inspired by the “Naïve Art” movement.

At its core, latest release ‘Vadak’ (2021) expresses the familiar hallmarks that are unique to only THY CATAFALQUE, and yet, it is an unpredictable magnum opus, showcasing the latest evolution from Kátai and his esteemed co-conspirators. The album puts forth an elegance that cannot be matched or rivaled by any musical contemporary, taking fans on an adventure that is rife with excitement, drama, and unbridled craftsmanship.

www.facebook.com/thycatafalque
www.instagram.com/thy_catafalque
www.twitter.com/thycatafalque
http://tamaskatai.bandcamp.com

Line-up
Tamás Kátai - guitars, bass, synths, programs and vocals

Recorded in: Budapest, Hungary | August 2021.

Cover art & lay-out: Tamás Kátai.

Shop: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/ThyCatafalqueShop

Available formats:
CD/Blu-ray Mediabook
LP in various colours
Digital

BLACK ANVIL Streams New Album, Kicks Off North American Tour

New York City black metal collective BLACK ANVIL is now streaming their brand new album, 'Regenesis,' which is due on November 4 via Season of Mist! The record can be heard in its entirety ahead of its release below.

In addition, BLACK ANVIL will be embarking on a full North American tour in support of CANNIBAL CORPSE along with DARK FUNERAL and IMMOLATION starting tomorrow, November 3 in Silver Springs, MD! Joliet, IL and the second date in Vancouver, BC have already sold out while several shows have posted low ticket warnings. The full itinerary and tickets can be found below!

The band comments, "Tomorrow we set out on our first North American tour in four years supporting 'Regenesis.' We are extremely proud to finally present this to the world."

BLACK ANVIL has recently revealed their very own signature beer in collaboration with Wake Brewing! Fermented and aged on wood, the Black Anvil Stout will be officially released in tandem with the band's performance at the upcoming winter edition of Decibel Magazine's Metal and Beer fest, which will take place from December 2-3 in Denver, CO! Tickets for the festival can be found HERE.

The album can be pre-saved on all streaming services HERE.

BLACK ANVIL Live Dates (w/ CANNIBAL CORPSE, DARK FUNERAL, IMMOLATION)

11/03: Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore [TICKETS]

11/04: Albany, NY @ Empire Live [TICKETS]

11/05: Montreal, QC @ MTelus [TICKETS // BILLETS] **LOW TICKETS**

11/06: Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall [TICKETS]**LOW TICKETS**

11/08: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theatre [TICKETS]

11/09: Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart's [TICKETS]

11/10: Ft Wayne, IN @ Piere's Entertainment Center [TICKETS]

11/11: Joliet, IL @ The Forge [TICKETS] **SOLD OUT**

11/12: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave II [TICKETS]

11/15: Calgary, AB @ Palace Theatre [TICKETS] **LOW TICKETS**

11/17: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre [TICKETS] **LOW TICKETS**

11/18: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre [TICKETS] **SOLD OUT**

11/19: Seattle, WA @ The Showbox [TICKETS] **LOW TICKETS**

11/21: San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom [TICKETS]

11/22: Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern [TICKETS] **SELLING FAST**

11/23: San Diego, CA @ The Observatory [TICKETS] **SELLING FAST**

11/25: Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues [TICKETS]

11/26: Tucson, AZ @ Encore [TICKETS]

11/28: Austin, TX @ Empire Garage [TICKETS]

11/29: Dallas, TX @ House of Blues [TICKETS]

11/30: Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom [TICKETS]

12/02: Denver, CO @ Decibel Metal & Beer Fest* [TICKETS]

12/03: Lawrence , KS @ The Granada [TICKETS]

12/04: Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre [TICKETS]

12/05: Belvidere, IL @ The Apollo Theater [TICKETS]

12/06: Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue [TICKETS]

12/08: Knoxville, TN @ The Concourse at the International [TICKETS]

12/09: Athens, GA @ Georgia Theatre [TICKETS]

12/10: St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live [TICKETS]

New York City has always served as a cultural epicenter for musical innovation. Even more so than incubating genres in their infancy such as hardcore and even glam metal, for which bands like Twisted Sister and KISS long set the stage before the Sunset Strip took the reigns, the empire state has a storied and unique history of taking genres whose roots lie elsewhere and making them its own; whether it be Anthrax reinventing Bay Area thrash, Suffocation and Immolation planting their flag as death metal purveyors at a time when it was a primary export of Florida, or bands like Blondie and the Ramones rivaling the British punk scene, the city has always been at the forefront of musical excellence. And when it comes to New York’s answer to black metal, Black Anvil have not only been a driving force for USBM, but have taken the black metal genre as a whole and made it entirely their own. Now, with full-length number five, the band has once again leveled up their game, presenting a “regenesis” of black metal.

Here you have 12 tracks of unrelenting yet thought provoking evil, sure to have you take a second & thoroughly re-examined view of what you thought black metal was supposed to be. “This is a more stripped down and aggressive song writing approach. Having time to digest ‘As Was,’ to understand where we were then versus where we are now was key. We always focus inward with our writing, never wanting to repeat ourselves, while also not losing our identity in a stretch to sound different,” explains Black Anvil bassist/vocalist P.

Challenging the norm has always been a core part of Black Anvil’s DNA since their formation in 2007. Upon the release of their debut full-length, Time Insults the Mind, the band quickly garnered the attention of Relapse Records and were presented with a deal. When it came to album number two, the band diverged from the typical approach of their contemporaries and sought an unlikely counterpart to render their vision, tapping engineer “General” George Fullan (The Rolling Stones, Dream Theater) at Mark “The Animal” Mendoza’s (Twisted Sister) Diamond Drop Studio on Long Island, NY. Released in September 2010, sophomore offering Triumvirate received much critical acclaim, notably being revered as an "all-around monster metal album."

Four years after its release, Triumvirate was followed by Hail Death, a 70-minute journey of intensity that further established Black Anvil as a modern black metal powerhouse. The album was met with praise by publications including Noisey, Pitchfork, Stereogum, Metal Injection, and many more. With the album’s success, the band’s profile rose as they were tapped to participate in numerous prominent tours with black metal legends such as Mayhem, Watain, Urfaust, Marduk as well as dates with Aura Noir, Nachtmystium, Immortal, Eyehategod, Cannibal Corpse, etc. Additionally, the band has appeared at various prestigious festivals including the Scion Rock Fest, Beyond The Gates in Bergen, Norway and the renowned Roadburn Festival in The Netherlands.

In 2017, Black Anvil dropped their fourth studio-album, As Was. Atmospheric and melodic without relenting on any of the ferocity that the collective has always been known for, As Was seamlessly weaves through eight monumental passages of extreme metal art, more diverse, complex, and thought-provoking than anything they've done before. The record proved itself to be a stellar representation of modern black metal and of Black Anvil’s continuous progression and songcraft.

Now, nearly six years after As Was made its mark, Black Anvil is returning with its aptly titled fifth full-length, Regenesis. With a new record label, a new album, and a newfound exploration of dark and black metal, Regenesisrepresents a new dawn for the New York City collective. “The concept is renewal, as well as the process/journey to get here outgrowing our past,” explains P. “Black Anvil has always been a departure from our past, a vehicle for us to grow as individuals, like a snake constantly shedding its skin. We don’t look  back, but never forget.”

Make no mistake, Regenesis is not a departure from Black Anvil’s identity, but rather serves as the latest progression in the band’s ever-evolving sound. The record takes what As Was did best and does it even better. The unrelenting and polished aggression hangs in the balance above dark melodic passages, presenting a dynamic soundscape that serves as the band’s most devastating and existential offering to date. As it’s evident that the band pulls inspiration from unlikely corners, they defy all genre standards and make one thing clear - this isn’t just black metal, this is NYBM.

Genre: New York Black Metal 

Line-up:
R: Drums
P: Bass/Vocals
J: Guitar

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/BlackAnvil/
https://www.instagram.com/blackanvil/
https://twitter.com/BlackAnvil
https://blackanvil.bandcamp.com/
https://blackanvilmerch.bigcartel.com/

Recording: Colin Marston at Menegroth, The Thousand Caves

Mixing + Mastering: by Tore Stjerna at Necromorbus Studio

Guest vocals:
Danny “Ezec” Diablo on “NYC Nightmares”

Artwork: Metastazis, Paris

Pre-sales: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/BlackAnvil

Ryman Auditorium and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Celebrate the Opening of "Rock Hall at the Ryman"

NASHVILLE’S HISTORIC RYMAN AUDITORIUM AND ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME CELEBRATE THE OPENING OF NEW EXHIBITION:
ROCK HALL AT THE RYMAN

The Exhibit Opened Today and Highlights
Significant Rock & Roll History at the Ryman

Photo Credit: Jason Kempin

Yesterday, Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium and Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrated the opening of their new collaborative exhibition: Rock Hall at the Ryman.

Rock Hall at the Ryman, which is now open to the public today, is part of a multi-year partnership with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and showcases the Ryman’s mark on rock & roll history. While the Ryman is known as the Mother Church of Country Music, Rock Hall at the Ryman honors the 100+ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees who have performed on the Ryman’s hallowed stage throughout its 130-year history.

The exhibit surveys a selection of Inductees including James Brown, The Byrds, Eric Clapton, Foo Fighters, Joan Jett and Dolly Parton in addition to country music icons like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Hank Williams, who were early practitioners of what would become rock & roll music. Housed in the Ryman’s newly transformed 5th Avenue vestibule, the exhibit features instruments, stage costumes and personal artifacts.

Some of the exhibit’s unique items include:

• Eric Clapton’s “Blackie” model Fender Stratocaster guitar played on the Journeyman tour in the early 1990s and then again in 1995.

• Foo Fighters’ Taylor Hawkins' outfit worn during performance to induct Rush at the 2013 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

• Joan Jett’s red latex halter bra top worn onstage at Vans Warped Tour ’06.

• Elvis Presley’s full-length belted suede coat worn c. 1970.

Earlier this year, the Ryman was designated as an official Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Landmark and joined 11 other rock & roll institutions throughout the country including Austin City Limits and Whisky a Go Go, among others. Continuing the celebration of rock & roll, the Ryman will host a variety of shows featuring Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Members U2’s Bono (Nov. 9), Lynyrd Skynyrd (Nov. 13), Smokey Robinson (Dec. 16), and a three-night residency with John Mellencamp (May 8-10, 2023), with more to be announced.

Entry to Rock Hall at the Ryman is included in all daytime tour tickets at the Ryman, which also includes a souvenir photo on stage, Soul of Nashville immersive theater experience and other star-studded exhibits. More information about Rock Hall at the Ryman, daytime tours and upcoming shows can be found at www.ryman.com.

About Ryman Auditorium
A National Historic Landmark, Ryman Auditorium was built by Captain Thomas G. Ryman in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle. A 13-time winner of the prestigious Pollstar Theatre of the Year award, the historic venue is well-known as the Mother Church of Country Music and is the most famous former home of the Grand Ole Opry (1943-1974). The Ryman’s thriving concert schedule hosts more than 200 shows per year, and the venue is open for daytime tours year-round. The Ryman has also been featured in numerous film and television projects including Coal Miner’s Daughter, The Johnny Cash Show, American Idol, Nashville and more. Ryman Auditorium is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP), a Nashville-based REIT that also owns and operates the Grand Ole Opry, WSM Radio and Ole Red. For more information, visit ryman.com.

About the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Rock Connects Us. Our mission is clear: To engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock & roll. We share stories of the people, events, and songs that shape our world through digital content, innovative exhibits, live music, and engaging programs. At the Rock Hall, we are dedicated to making a difference. We intentionally foster a diverse and equitable Museum that encourages and embraces creativity and innovation. As a community leader, we value, empower, and respect all people. Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion is more than just a policy. It supports our mission and defines our future. Join the millions who love it as much as you do. Experience us live or online – Visit rockhall.com or follow the Rock Hall on Facebook (@rockandrollhalloffame), Twitter (@rockhall), Instagram (@rockhall), TikTok (@RockHallFame), and YouTube (youtube.com/rockhall). Long Live Rock!

New Jersey's ELK CITY releases 'Above The Water' LP featuring members of Versus, Luna and Psychedelic Furs side-project Feed

"Elk City’s cool and elegant sound draws on 1980s “dream pop” and bits of 1960s folk-rock" ~ The New York Times

"This music is sophisticated – vivacious, harmonious and memorable due to many factors, not least of all is the remarkable vocal timbre and convincing delivery of vocalist Renée LoBue, recalling Eddie Brickell at times and Jefferson Airplane’s Grace Slick at others" ~ Music-News.com

"A formidable offering... it comes as no surprise Elk City sounds so animated, brazen and effervescent. LoBue’s commanding vocals are the icing on the cake, making for a highly infectious track" ~ The Spill Magazine

"White-hot, catchy and propels the listener ahead in forward motion... with a vocal timbre somewhere in the midst of Chrissie Hynde, Blondie and Patti Smith" ~ The Record Stache


Art pop band Elk City has released their new album 'Above the Water'. A new chapter in the Montclair, New Jersey band’s evolutionary story, this album is vibrant, raw-edged and bold, showcasing a new guitar-rich lineup featuring members of Versus, Luna and the Psychedelic Furs side-project Feed.

The ‘Above the Water’ LP is being released via the newly-launched Magic Door Record Label, founded by Guided by Voices drummer Kevin March with Ketchem and LoBue with a simple mission to release music created by the rich community of artists who surround them.

Revolving around its founders, artist/ vocalist Renée LoBue and producer/drummer Ray Ketchem, the band is rounded out by guitarists Sean Eden (Luna) and Chris Robertson (Feed, Punch Havana) and bass guitarist Richard Baluyut (Versus).

Since their formation in 1999, Elk City has released 5 albums, 3 EPs and numerous singles. Pursuing a glimmering rock thread, Elk City makes potent atmospheric pop with psychedelic undertones and overtones.

Revealing the band’s North Jersey roots and lineage with The Feelies, Yo La Tengo (with whom they share a former label, Bar/None) and Luna (with whom they share a guitarist), this album asks the old New Jersey question, but this time with elegance and elocution - Have you got a problem with that?

‘Above the Water’ was recorded, mixed and mastered at Ketchem’s Magic Door Recording, opened in 2017 as an acoustically lush refuge for musical expression and experimentation. Ketchem, whose production credits include Guided By Voices, Luna and Gramercy Arms, partnered with legendary studio designer George Augspurger to transform a cavernous warehouse into a freeform studio where vintage microphones, modern studio gear, and bespoke sound tuning elevate and inspire.

Earlier, Elk City released the single 'That Someone', which explores the dual nature of self and other, excitement and dismay and the more laid-back and philosophical 'Your Time Doesn't Exist'.

The 'Above The Water' album is now available through all fine digital outlets, including Apple Music, Tidal, Qobuz and Spotify, as well as Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Renée LoBue - lead vocals
Chris Robertson - guitars, backing vocals
Ray Ketchem - drums, backing vocals
Sean Eden - guitars
Richard Baluyut - bass, backing vocals
Recorded, Mixed & Mastered by Ray Ketchem at Magic Door Recording, Montclair, NJ
Song written and performed by Elk City.
© 2022 sound is crazy music (BMI)
Single cover artwork by Ray Ketchem. Album artwork by Ray Ketchem & Renée LoBue

LIVE SHOWS
Nov 18 BROOKLYN - Union Pool (with SAVAK and Continuals)
Dec 17 BOSTON (Jamaica Plain) - The Midway (with Sleepyhead)


Keep up with Elk City
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Magic Door Record Label:
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New Jersey's ROB MUNK releases new single 'Youth' ahead of new 'Phased Out' LP

"Sassy power-pop... the same blend of jaunt and joyfulness and slightly downbeat and world-weariness running through their music as, say, The Lemonheads or The Dandy Warhols. Not to mention no small amount of early R.E.M. wonky majesty" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"Enjoyable, danceable, moshable – timeless in the same way as Pixies and Throwing Muses will never seem old. But Munk’s music itself is perhaps closer to Sebadoh, Sparklehorse, The Shins, Fastball, Weezer or Presidents of the USA" ~ Amplify Music Magazine

"Munk’s an idealistic singer/songwriter with great guitar and vocal chops, not to mention stellar songwriting skills" ~ Popular Culture Beat


American indie rocker Rob Munk presents his new single 'Youth', a sonic love letter to misspent youth, a misty-eyed celebration of juvenile delinquency and bad decisions made in that magical time before consequences, regret and civic responsibility took their rightful place as guiding principles.

Following the upbeat environmentally-conscious lead track 'Amazon', this track previews his 'Phased Out' LP, slated for release on November 18 via the Magic Door Label. This grassroots imprint was founded by Guided by Voices drummer Kevin March, together with producer Ray Ketchem and artist-vocalist Renée LoBue.

"When we’re young, mistakes and triumphs are often indistinguishable but at least it’s all exciting. We could probably all write this song, and extend it for a thousand verses," says Rob Munk.

"I wanted to try something simple, where the verse and chorus had the same chord progression. I always liked songs that were able to pull that off. Producer Ray Ketchem referenced Love and Rockets when we tracked this, which felt perfect because Seventh Dream of Teenage Heaven was one of my favorite records during peak adolescence."

An ambitious modern rock album, this 12-track collection is, in Munk's own words, "a little poppy, a little sloppy and entirely honest". 'Phased Out' is a record that somehow comes out of nowhere from an artist that has been almost everywhere. This is modern rock that respects people's emotional intelligence. With elements of 1990’s and 2000's indie rock and traces of 1970’s AM pop, this is music that respects people's emotional intelligence.

For Rob Munk, music was never the plan. An actor from the age of three, he and his brothers would commute into NYC from New Jersey for gigs to help support life with a single Mom. After several years of filming commercials (including Jello pudding with Bill Cosby), Rob was cast as young Woody Allen in 'Stardust Memories', his brother having played the same role in the Oscar-winning 'Annie Hall'. He left acting at 14, enrolled in boarding school and formed a band, soon learning that music felt more natural and was far more fun than acting. He was hooked.

Upon moving to Boston, Rob’s new band Thudpucker became a staple on the Boston rock scene in the early 90’s as many local bands were starting to explode. Between several singles, local gigs and touring, they opened for everyone from Pavement and Hole to the Afghan Whigs and Juliana Hatfield. After relocating to Chapel Hill, NC, Rob formed the indie rock band Tinsel, having opened for Polvo, Guided By Voices, Pipe and Come, while also playing in cover bands with members of Firehose and Superchunk. After some touring and a few singles, they put out two records before imploding of natural rock and roll causes.

After stints in a few more NYC bands, Munk was once again doing commercials and TV shows, including scenes with Tina Fey, Tony Hale, John Goodman and Paul Giammatti. After moving to LA for a pilot season but getting no traction there, Rob launched the now-defunct blog 'LoserActor', creatively chronicling his daily humiliation. With his writing brought to the attention of the creative directors at famed ad agency Wieden + Kennedy, Rob returned to New York - only this time as a copywriter and creative director, writing huge campaigns for ESPN, Delta Airlines and AT&T.

20 years on, Rob has again returned to music with better and more personal songs that mean a great deal to him. During the pandemic, he reocrded this album with his good friend, actor-writer Daniel London (Old Joy, Minority Report, Manhattan)and Tinsel drummer and writer-director Joe Ventura. The first releases from this were the singles 'Heavy Shoes (to kill the blues)' and 'Ghosts of San Francisco'.

Mixed by Oakland composer-producer Chuck Johnson at Cirrus Oxide, this album was produced, recorded, mastered and partially mixed at Magic Door Recordingby Ray Ketchem, whose production credits include Guided By Voices, Gramercy Arms, Luna and Elk City.

As of November 2, 'Youth' is available everywhere digitally, including Apple Music and Spotify. The full 'Phased Out' album, which is out on November 18, can also be pre-ordered via Bandcamp.

'PHASED OUT' ALBUM CREDITS:
Written by Rob Munk
Rob Munk - vocals, guitar
Daniel London - lead guitar
Joe Ventura - drums
Scott Anthony - bass
Megan Reilly - vocals
Peter Gallagher - vocals
Maple Munk - vocals
George Munk - keyboards
Ray Ketchem - drums, keyboards, synths
Chuck Johnson - guitar, pedal steel, synths
Recorded and mastered by Ray Ketchem at Magic Door Recording
Mixed by Chuck Johnson at Cirrus Oxide in Oakland
Cover artwork by Ron Liberti

Keep up with Rob Munk
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Swedish Heavy Metallers, The Riven, Share Final Single from Sophomore Studio Album 'Peace and Conflict'

Swedish retro-influenced heavy metal group, The Riven, launch "Peace and Conflict” the fifth and final single, as well as the title track, of their second studio album. The track is mixed and mastered by Ola Ersfjord, who is known for his work with Tribulation, Lucifer, and Imperial State Electric, to name a few.

"Peace and Conflict" moves around psychedelic soundscapes, with front woman Charlotta’s vocals in the spotlight, culminating into a powerful, energetic finale centered around electrifying guitar arrangements.

The Riven’s second studio album 'Peace and Conflict' will be released on vinyl, CD, and digital formats on the 25th of November.

The album will be released on The Sign Records and can be pre-ordered now on The Riven’s Bandcamp.

Hard hitting, sharp shooting power rock influenced by the great sounds of the 1970s and 80s, The Riven plays honest Rock & Roll that makes you wanna shake your fist and bang your head! Their music and lyrics will take you on a sonic journey.

“The Riven is an electrifying powerhouse, Classic Rock for the 21st Century".

The Riven are currently releasing their second full length studio album 'Peace and Conflict'. The album consists of eight hard hitting tracks that will be available on Vinyl, CD and digital platforms.

New on this album, is the guitarist Joakim Sandegård who, together with Arnau Diaz, creates a twin guitar sound, new to The Riven. Also on this album is Jussi Kalla behind the drums who made his debut with the band with the 12inch "Windbreaker/Movin On" released in May of 2020.

 “Make no mistake this band is going to blow up in stratospheric proportions”- The Sludgelord

The Riven recorded their nine track, self-titled debut album in Madrid, Spain with Producer Ola Ersfjord (Lucifer, Tribulation, Dead Lord) at Holy Cuervo Studios. It was later released on the first of March 2019 on The Sign Records with a worldwide distribution.  

“Glowingly performed and with a clear direction towards future great deeds. You can’t ask for more from this fully-fledged debut album” - Sweden Rock Magazine. 

Pre-Order the Album 'Peace and Conflict' HERE

The Riven was formed in 2016 when they were living in West London, where they also recorded their EP ‘Blackbird’ at Buffalo Studios.

“The five tracks on 'Blackbird' are short, snappy, and more catchy than airborne Ebola”. - AMG

The self-titled album “The Riven” received great reviews and in the autumn of 2019 the album got a South American release through the Brazilian label Hellion Records. The first album developed the band’s sound from their EP “Blackbird” and gave space to a more progressive and psychedelic side.  

In 2019, The Riven embarked on extensive tours, taking them all over Europe in three separate head-line tours around France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Sweden, playing festivals like Muskelrock, Hellgart, Live at Heart and Skövde in Rock. 

In the summer of 2021, The Riven went to a cottage in the south of Sweden, recording their second full-length album. The anticipated sophomore album balances perfectly straight, sharpshooting heavy rock with big choruses with psychedelic moments.

“Peace and Conflict” offers twin guitars, roaring vocals and a locked-in rhythm section waiting to take you away. 

“Now this is Classic Rock for our time” - Doomed & Stoned 

Today, the band consists of singer Totta Ekebergh, guitarists Arnau Diaz and Joakim Sandegård, bass player Max Ternebring and drummer Jussi Kalla.

LA-based alternative pop artist FAITH MARIE presents 'NVM (Remix)', a dark and lush electronic kick to depression

"Faith Marie is carrying the sound and message of these dark times, conveyed in confessional first-hand narrative... A true gem among young singer-songwriters" ~ The Spill Magazine


LA-based alt-pop artist Faith Marie presents her new single 'NVM (Remix)', an infectious downtempo song about depression and the author's personal struggles to move forward.

This is Faith Marie's first music output since 2020, when she released 'Nobody'.Despite a series of lockdowns and other setbacks, she didn’t stop creating and now is back to once again share her first love (music) with people that have been so supportive over the years.

The new remix re-envisions her original version of 'NVM'. A collaboration with UUin, Inc., a media boutique company/creative agency focused on curating and creating original content, this new offering brings her trademark orchestral pop closer to the electronic realm.

Originally from Provo, Utah, this clever dynamic singer-songwriter began developing her skills at the age of 13, launching a successful YouTube channel that would attract over 100,000 subscribers over the next five years, in addition to millions of listens via Spotify. Her first singles included the moody piano ballad 'Antidote', the orchestrally adorned 'Little Girl' and the electronic-laced 'Devil on My Shoulder', each of dealing with themes of struggle, anxiety, and hope.

From her early years dabbling in music as a family-oriented hobby through to her move to L.A. and release of nearly a dozen singles to date, Faith Marie has always written purely from a subconscious place.

"I wrote this song when I had a very difficult time grasping my mental illness. I felt very alone and as a timid young girl, it felt as though I couldn't talk to anyone about it, and so this song became the first of many expressions of my ongoing struggles with mental health. A producer from London was inspired by the song and he’s responsible for the new musical direction of the remix," says Faith Marie.

Producer and UUin Inc. label head Amyn Bhai elucidates on how this collaboration came about: "While working at a local label in Los Angeles, I came across a performance video of Faith at a local venue called The Velour, which her dad had posted on YouTube. Soon after, we began working together. She was 13 when we started working together. She traveled back and forth between LA and Utah during her teens while we worked on developing a sound and songwriting. Once we felt confident that we had a song and a direction, we recorded and posted a performance video of her cover of Bring Me The Horizon 'Drown'. That got a lot of visibility. We followed that up with 'Antidote', an original she wrote and produced."

The long hibernation is over, and there's years of music that needs to be heard. Pandora's Box will be opening - Be ready for more. Soon enough, Faith Marie will be unveiling new music with her 'More Than I Am' EP, the lead track of which will be released before the end of 2022.

As of October 28, Faith Marie's 'NVM (Remix)' is available from fine digital music outlets across the net, including Apple Music, Spotify and also Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Executive produced by Amyn Bhai and Catherine Cunning
Remixed by ELL
Lyrics written by Faith Marie
Mixed by Steve Phillips
Mastered by Eric Boulanger
Music produced in London, Vocals recorded in Los Angeles
Video created by Ryan McKinnon
Produced by Amyn Bhai
Edited and Colored by Paul Tuft


Keep up with Faith Marie
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Keep up with UUin, Inc.

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NYC-French postpunk duo Frenchy and the Punk present seventh full-length album 'Zen Ghost'

"Explosive, subdued, confrontational, soothing, spikey, and accessible, an incredible blend of alt-rock shade and alt-folk light" ~ Big Takeover Magazine

"Vibrant and danceable. Who says dark can’t also be fun? Zen Ghost, which may be among the year’s best albums to date, is a highly recommended listen" ~ The Spill Magazine

"Penetrating psych-soaked post-punk... Brimming with their signature cinematic drama and that unforgettable voice" ~ Global Texan Chronicles

"Bombastic... a happy medium between the sonic atmosphere and thoughtful melancholy of post-punk music and the unmistakable drama of cabaret... as beautifully manic as some of the finest artists on America's early punk' scene" ~ Amplify Music Magazine

"An inspiriting slice of post punk hued, new wave nurtured rock ‘n’ roll... under the skin and hungrily stirring the imagination in a flash" ~ Ringmaster Review

NYC-based postpunk duo Frenchy and the Punk present their new 'Zen Ghost'album. Their seventh long-player record, released via the EA Recordings, follows the high energy lead track 'Mon Souvenir' and Siouxsie-esque single 'Come In and Play'.

Dark times make for dark songs. On 'Zen Ghost', the duo's shadowy sound takes an even darker turn. An inward spin, into the pair’s previously unexplored personal planes and interpretations of the insanity of our increasingly tumultuous age. But despite its more pronounced moodiness, like the rest of the band’s oeuvre, 'Zen Ghost' offers plenty of opportunities to dance in the darkness.

Frenchy and the Punk is vocalist, percussionist and lyricist Samantha Stephensonand guitarist-composer Scott Helland, who was co-founder and bassist of Outpatients and also Deep Wound (along with Dinosaur Jr. founders J Mascisand Lou Barlow). Influenced by The Cure, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Blondie, Concrete Blonde and The B52’s, the duo thrive in their trademark blend of post-punk and dark folk music.

"We started writing Zen Ghost at the end of 2020 and have a few tracks that were written as recently as Spring 2022. It highlights the darker tones of what we do and is influenced by the environment in which we all live in at the moment," says Samantha Stephens.

"The core theme to the album is ‘mind phantoms,’ the ghosts of our past that reside in our minds and can influence our present. The theme of breaking the chains of life choices that don’t align with one’s true authentic self has been rampant in the lyrics throughout the years. This record delves into the remnants of the voices and experiences that can still haunt us. This is the album we've always wanted to make."

Tapped as one of the Top 25 duos in the US by Yahoo! Music, the freewheeling pair has released numerous recordings, including the acclaimed albums 'Happy Madness' (2010), 'Hey Hey Cabaret' (2012), 'Elephant Uproar' (2013), 'Cartwheels' (2014), 'Bonjour Batfrog' (2014), and 'Hooray Beret' (2019).

French-born, but raised in the UK and USA, Stephenson’s study of piano and dance ignited her eventual rejection of corporate conformity and fueled a quest to lead a truly autonomous life through art and music. A son of jazz-loving teachers, Helland grew up in Western Massachusetts and was a vital player on the region’s fertile early hardcore punk scene.

Helland and Stephenson met in NYC in 1998, when Stephenson spontaneously jumped on stage to accompany Helland during his solo guitar performance. The artistic union was immediate, powerful and undeniable. The two began to tour with fevered zeal, turning heads with their striking aesthetic, steadily building fervent fans on the mystical-folk/steampunk festival, coffeehouse, convention, and club circuits with their boisterous, revival-like live shows.

Over the years, they've performed live with Dead Can Dance's Peter Ulrich and Dresden Dolls' Brian Viglione, and opened for Thomas Dolby, Dinosaur Jr., The World Inferno Friendship Society, Rasputina, Cruxshadows, Hurray For The Riff Raff and The Young Dubliners.

As of October 28, the 'Zen Ghost' LP can be found across fine digital outlets, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. It is also available on CD via the band's website.

CREDITS
All songs written by Samantha Stephenson and Scott Helland
Samantha Stephenson - lyrics, lead vocal, percussion, keyboard
Scott Helland - guitar, bass, drums, backing vocals
Jason Sarubbi - upright bass on 'Church of Sound'
Braxton Bellew - additional electric bass on 'Church of Sound'
Recorded & mixed by Jason Sarubbi at Split Rock Studios, New Paltz, NY
Mastered at The Cage, Coventry UK by Martin Bowes
Cover photo by Alice Teeple
Pen and ink drawings by Scott Helland
Album cover design by Scott Helland and Samantha Stephenson

TOUR DATES
Dec 2 Camden/London - Black Heart (with Before Victoria & Flesh Tetris)
Dec 6 Edinburgh, UK - The Wee Red Bar
Dec 10 Exeter, UK - Yule Ball (with Professor Elemental)
Feb 4/5 Manchester, CT - Stupid Cupid Steampunk Festival
Feb 18/19 Gettsyburg, PA - MythiCon Festival
April 01 Galveston, TX - Galveston Steampunk Festival
April 8-9 Baltimore, MD - Between The Worlds
April 15/16 Chicago, IL - Chicago Steampunk Expo
April 22/23 Apex, NC - Festival of Legends


Keep up with Frenchy and the Punk
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Opry NextStage Artist Nate Smith's Exclusive Performance of Chart-Topping Hit "Whiskey On You"

Last month, the Grand Ole Opry announced the final member of the NextStage Class of 2022, Arista Nashville/Sony Music Nashville artist, Nate Smith. His newest single “Whiskey On You” is currently Top 15 and climbing on the country radio charts and has sat in the Top 20 on Billboard’s well sought-after Hot Country Songs chart over the past month. Watch Smith’s exclusive 60 second NextStage acoustic performance of “Whiskey On You” below.

Having lost everything in the 2018 California Camp Fire, and making his way back to Nashville, Smith has truly risen from the ashes and has carved his own path in the country music genre. The artist recounts his inspiring Grand Ole Opry debut story in this exclusive NextStage interview HERE.

Smith will return to the Grand Ole Opry to make his NextStage artist debut today, Tuesday, Nov. 1. Buy tickets HERE. Smith will also take the stage for Opry NextStage Live In Concert, presented by Geico, alongside other 2022 NextStage artists BRELAND, Restless Road, Elvie Shane and Conner Smith, with special performances by NextStage alumnae Hailey Whitters and Priscilla Block, who will host the event. NextStage Live In Concert will take place on Sunday, Nov. 20 at the Grand Ole Opry House. Tickets for Opry NextStage Live in Concert are available to purchase HERE.

For more information on Opry NextStage, visit opry.com/nextstage.

About Opry NextStage
Developed by Opry Entertainment Group in 2019, Opry NextStage, presented by Geico, invests in the discovery of new artists and highlights one up-and-coming artist per month with featured original content, an Opry performance and support across the brand’s platforms, which include the Opry, Ryman Auditorium, WSM Radio, Ole Red and Circle Network. With a pulse on what is next in the Country music format and a deep commitment to supporting burgeoning talent, NextStage has cemented a strong track record in just three short years. The two previous NextStage classes have featured artists such as Parker McCollum, Lainey Wilson, Riley Green and Tenille Townes who all went on to earn ACM New Male and Female Artist of the Year trophies following their Opry NextStage debuts.

About the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry presents the best in country music live every week from Nashville, Tenn. The Opry can be heard at opry.com and wsmonline.com, Opry and WSM mobile apps, SiriusXM, and its flagship home, 650 AM-WSM. The Grand Ole Opry is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties (NYSE:RHP). For more information, visit opry.com.

About Nate Smith
Featuring a mix of gritty backwoods soul, rock ‘n’ roll swagger and velvet-thunder vocals, Nate Smith is Sony Music Nashville’s latest signing whose personal journey inspired him to be a beacon of country-music hope, an inspirational mission he puts front-and-center. A California native, former worship leader, and lifelong music lover, Smith approaches that mission with a background as eclectic as it gets. Learning guitar at 13, Garth Brooks, Elvis Presley and Bob Seger were among those informing his powerful, fire-from-within vocals, while Michael Jackson made him crave the spotlight and Nirvana gave his sound a jagged edge. He first chased his neon dreams to Nashville in his early 20s – but it didn’t stick. The disheartened Smith returned home and thought he was “100-percent done” with his artistic journey…until a crucible of change burned away the past.

In 2018, Smith lost everything he owned in the devastating Camp Fire which tore through Paradise, California, now known as the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in the state’s history. Although his family was safe, he struggled to cope and turned back to music, hoping that it would help comfort himself and others. Help it did, inspiring a month-long road trip across the U.S. to Music City, writing music and playing dive bars along the way. Soon after his arrival to Nashville, Nate released his biggest song to date, “Wildfire,” and landed a publishing deal with Sony ATV. Since then, he’s released new music including “Sleeve” and “Under My Skin,” which has amassed over 60 million on-demand streams to date. The singer was named a Spotify Hot Country Artist to Watch for 2021 – an accurate prediction as he rounded out the year with a record deal and two brand new songs: “Raised Up” and the viral TikTok hit “I Don’t Wanna Go To Heaven.” The powerhouse vocalist is now making waves with his latest release, "Whiskey On You," which is currently climbing the country radio charts. Nate is managed by Kevin “Chief” Zaruk and Simon Tikhman with The Core Entertainment.