TEMIC Release Acoustic Version of "Falling Away"

January 23, 2024

TEMIC arrived on the scene fully formed. The Prog Report nominated their debut album for best song, video and album of 2023. Of course, the runaway success of Terror Management Theory wasn't too terribly surprising. After all, these guys joined forces after playing with Devin Townsend, Neal Morse and Mike Portnoy's Shattered Fortress.

Even when paired down, this band is still a super group. Watch Fredrik Klemp and Eric Gillette flex their tender muscles on this live acoustic version of "Falling Away".

Watch the video for "Falling Away (Live Acoustic)" below.

This video was directed and produced by TEMIC's drummer Simen Sandnes. It was recorded live at Stora Teatern in Gothenburg, Sweden. The theater is just a floor up from the studio where Sandnes recorded the drums on Terror Management Theory.

Stream: https://temic.fanlink.to/FallingAwayAcoustic

Terror Management Theory is riddled with power-prog anthems, though none soar higher than "Falling Away". The studio recording jumps out of your speakers with booming drum fills and chugging riffs. But while dialed down to little more than brittle, acoustic plucking, this live acoustic version is no less powerful. "I will give in to the eternal night", Klemp sings, as if preparing to float off and join the great gig in the sky. The way his falsetto lightly shatters against Gillette's gentle harmonies, it's like the two are orbiting one another, the way only true superstars can.

"'Falling Away' is one of our favorite tracks from our debut album" says TEMIC, "not only due to the musical elements present on the album version but because of its lyrics and vocal melodies. That is why Eric and Fredrik decided to grace us with this heartfelt, stripped-down acoustic version that focuses the spotlight on these core elements. Enjoy!"

Terror Management Theory is out now!

Order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/Temic

TEMIC broke into the world of prog music with a bang last year. Terror Management Theory topped the charts in the Netherlands and reached #15 on iTunes Worldwide Metal chart.

Now, prog's new supergroup is rolling that breakout momentum under the bright lights of the Midwinter Prog Festival. Don't miss the chance to see them next Saturday, when they'll perform songs off their debut album for the very first time!

Tickets:https://www.tivolivredenburg.nl/agenda/midwinter-prog-festival-2024-03-02-2024/

Diego Tejeida and Eric Gillette first got the idea for TEMIC when they were touring members of Mike Portnoy's Shattered Fortress. Here are just some of the nice things that their fellow road dog had to say about Terror Management Theory.

"Musically, it falls somewhere between Leprous, Sleep Token, Haken, Dream Theater & Pain of Salvation...amazing stuff, insane playing, check it out if you haven't already!"

Their vision for TEMIC wasn't exactly simple: synthesize their love for high-energy electronica and flashy riffs into a killer prog-metal hybrid. But after recruiting former soccer prodigy-turned-Zildjian-endorsed drummer Simen Sandnes (SHINING, Arkentype) to go along with the high-powered falsetto of Fredrik Klemp (Maraton), together, the supergroup managed to connect all those puzzle pieces on their very first album.

Terror Management Theory is perfect for busting out the air guitar. But now fans can also hit all the album’s high notes by d ownloading the song stems on Bandcamp. With these stems, budding musicians can learn the guitar, bass, drum and keyboard parts for all 10 songs. They can also be used by producers to remix prog anthems like “Count Your Losses” into thumping club bangers or a stripped-down yet soaring ballad.

More praise for TEMIC and Terror Management Theory:

"As the progressive metal scene witnesses a surge of new talent, this [album] places TEMIC in the discussion of the top new band releases of 2023", - The Prog Report.

"Bursting with ideas and extraordinary individual performances, it sounds like the work of a living, breathing band" - Blabbermouth

"...technical without being suffocating...For anyone already invested in the genre, there is nothing here to not like" - Sonic Perspectives

"...a lavish progressive metal debut that stands out sharply in the crowd" - Distorted Sound

Stream: https://orcd.co/tmtpresave
Download stems: https://temic.bandcamp.com/album/tmt-stems

TEMIC came together from across the globe, but they also share a wide variety of influences.

Check out the playlist that the prog supergroup update each month on Spotify. The latest edition features Meshuggah, Daft Punk, Car Bomb and the Rockysoundtrack.

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/11T7gAoZ7ljFxTGRaLjP4a?si=bbb3d00ba1404a8e

Introducing TEMIC—prog’s newest, most ambitious, and most adrenaline-fueled act. TEMIC melds the creative minds of keyboardist and sound designer Diego Tejeida (Devin Townsend, Mike Portnoy’s Shattered Fortress, ex-Haken), guitarist Eric Gillette (The Neal Morse Band, Mike Portnoy’s Shattered Fortress), drummer Simen Sandnes (SHINING, Arkentype), and vocalist Fredrik Klemp (Maraton, 22).

The origins of TEMIC date back to 2017, when Tejeida and Gillette toured the world as band members of Mike Portnoy’s Shattered Fortress. From the very first chords they exchanged, their musical chemistry both on and off stage was undeniable, leading them to discuss the prospect of starting a new band together. Unfortunately, conflicting tour and recording commitments forced them to turn their attention elsewhere for years—that is, until the world came to a standstill in 2020, and Tejeida called Gillette to ask a fateful question:
“Remember how we said we should make music together? Well, how about now?”

Thus, the first demos for what would later become TEMIC’s 2023 debut album, Terror Management Theory, began to emerge. Within a few weeks after that initial phone call, the musical vision of TEMIC had become clear: Let’s create progressive music that is heavily influenced by high-energy electronic music, but arranged and orchestrated for a 5-piece modern prog rock/metal band—where, at last, the pulse can be the focus, and the vocal melody can be king.

Eager to join forces with the very best bandmates, Tejeida and Gillette first summoned the rhythmic power of their friend and drummer Sandnes. With characteristic enthusiasm, Sandnes seized the opportunity, prepared to contribute his percussive prowess as the heartbeat of TEMIC. When it came time to find the singer that would carry TEMIC’s melodies to new heights, Sandnes recommended vocal powerhouse Klemp, whose emotive delivery and unmatched intensity left no doubt that he was destined to be the voice of TEMIC. Finally, to round out the rhythm section of Terror Management Theory, dynamic bassist Jacob Umansky (Intervals) was invited on board as a guest player, gracing the album with an unrivaled groove and a signature low-end sound.

Together, this mammoth lineup is TEMIC, a high-energy, electronic-inspired, modern melodic prog metal band for the next generation.

Line-up:
Fredrik Klemp (Maraton, 22) – Vocals
Eric Gillette (The Neal Morse Band, Mike Portnoy’s Shattered Fortress) – Guitars and Backing Vocals
Simen Sandnes (Shining, Arkentype) – Drums and Percussion
Diego Tejeida (Devin Townsend, Mike Portnoy’s Shattered Fortress, ex-Haken) - Keyboards and Sound Design

Recording Studio: Drums and vocals recorded at Top Floor Studios (Gothenburg, Sweden)
Producer: Produced by TEMIC. Drums and vocals engineered by Jakob Herrmann Gothenburg, Sweden)
Mix/Mastering: Mixed and mastered by Rich Mouser at The Mouse House (Los Angeles, USA)

Guest musicians:
Jacob Umansky (USA) – Bass guitar on the whole album
Mosaic Gospel Choir (Norway) – Mothallah
Garden State Threshold Choir (USA) – Mothallah

Cover artwork: Hicham Hamzi

Order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/Temic
Stream: https://orcd.co/tmtpresave

Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
2x12" Colored Vinyl Gatefold - White
2x12" Colored Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear
2x12" Colored Vinyl Gatefold - Gold & Black Marbled
2x12" Colored Vinyl Gatefold - White & Black Marbled
Merchandise

Follow Temic
https://temicband.com
www.facebook.com/TEMICBAND
www.instagram.com/temicband
https://temic.bandcamp.com/album/terror-management-theory
https://twitter.com/temicband
https://open.spotify.com/artist/21vxrbfeqrr6xrot1y5t7i
https://www.youtube.com/channel/ucaslvfvcvrv4cdarmdiqkgg
https://music.apple.com/artist/temic/1695936703

LEON FREAR releases 'A Town Called Chapel', a mixed emotion ode to his hometown, ahead of debut album

January 23, 2024

"Frear has a voice which somewhat recalls Marty Willson-Piper of The Church fame and his side project Nocturum... This is something for fans of Nick Cave and related"~ Side-Line Magazine

"Track of the Day. The way he tells the story makes it seem like he and the listener are commiserating together... a song with a great story" ~ Chasing Destino

"With a unmistakeable voice deserving of becoming a regular fixture in the mind-memory of music lovers everywhere... catchy and contemplative, showcasing clever lyrics channeled through his smooth and deep timbre. fabulous from start to end and is obviously confessional while also being an invested labor of love" ~ Rock n Roll Biz

"The combination of evocative lyrics and a dynamic musical backdrop creates an immersive experience, inviting listeners to delve into the complexities of love, longing, and self-discovery" ~ Skylight Webzine

Indie musician and songwriter Leon Frear presents 'A Town Called Chapel', the second offering from his debut album 'Wild Rice', which introduces the listener to a man still affected years later by the frisson and fallout of a clandestine love affair.

A seasoned musician, this album represents a new start for him under this moniker. Now based in Chicago, Frear describes this single as “a poison pen love letter to an historically musical time and place, to big blown-up plans and irreplaceable, lost relationships. No matter what else I say, It's a letter I sign with love.”

“The song ‘A Town Called Chapel,’ is the opening track on my album because it paints the landscape and provides background on the insular, dissolute college town / former-small-town music mecca that this whole experience sprang from," says Leon Frear.

"It's a song about knowing that you need to leave a situation that is grimy, bad for you and a little hedonistic. But you're so used to it - the feeling is so warm and comfy that you just can't bear to leave. I might sound hypercritical of the place and maybe that makes me a hypocrite. But I’m also from there and a fair target for these less flattering descriptions myself. Love, lust, and naïveté. All that stuff. It's part of me. It's my home."

'A Town Called Chapel' https://soundcloud.com/ leonfrear/a-town-called- chapel/s-VCNCkxe9f2j
Bandcamp https://leonfrear.bandcamp.com/track/a-town-called-chapel-2
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/track/68Y8SNjt59ezItWDuTMiyM

This follows the artist's debut single 'Secret Second Moon' with its fantastic animated video, created by French artist Ronald Grandpey. It's a powerful introduction to a collection of songs that reflects a dramatic period in which Frear experienced a life-altering love affair, its implosion and aftermath, followed by a decade of reflection and changes.

Informed by his own personal experience, Frear's music speaks of love, lust, broken promises, broken phones, and multiple incinerated bridges. This 10-track collection was produced by Frear in his home studio in Chicago, playing every instrument and capturing every breath to tape during a recording process that took years in isolation to complete.

About the forthcoming album, Leon Frear says, "'Wild Rice' is the story of those times, but told in reflection. The songs came from a place of true grief, regret and a little bit of anger. But through all of those things, I gained wisdom and became a better person. And while the details may be different, I think every human on this planet shares in the experience of feelings of grief. Ultimately, I think it is an album about empathy."

"Sonically, I was inspired to make Wild Rice while listening to old Leonard Cohen albums, Harvest by Neil Young, Stories from the City by PJ Harvey and lots of old ballads by Nick Cave. Those albums and artists sound weary and world worn and I did my best to capture a similar feeling."

Laced with hints of sadness and regret, anger and remorse, somehow the lyrics are tempered with a sardonic wit that leaves the listener wondering if Frear doesn’t secretly savor feeling bad, just for laughs. If there’s an opportunity to mock an uncaring universe, this is an opportunity Frear doesn’t let go to waste.

Dubbing his brand of post-alternative music “vocabulary rock”, Frear aims to shift the emphasis away from the man and towards the music and lyrics, while inviting the listener to commiserate together through this exploration of grief, depression and sadness.

'A Town Called Chapel' is out now, available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The 'Wild Rice' album will be released (on vinyl and digitally) on March 1.

CREDITS
Music and lyrics written by Leon Frear
Recorded by Leon Frear in his Chicago home studio
Mastering by Adam Boose at Cauliflower Studios
Vocals and instruments performed by Leon, except
Faye Whitt - backup vocals on 'Murder of Crows'
Front cover collage by Faye Whitt
Ronald Grandpey - Director / animator for 'Secret Second Moon' video
Artist photos by Jeremy Glickstein

College radio-inspired indie rock trio Onceweresixty presents 'Don’t Get Stuck', previewing sophomore album

January 23, 2024

"A glorious slice of jingle jangle indie pop that has an atmospheric build like a slow burning fuse... With clear genetic links to US college indie rock, a touch of Dinosaur Jnr or Galaxie 500 mixed in with David Berman/The Silver Jews, and REM, ‘Don’t Get Stuck’ shimmers like a star in the firmament with its gentle reflective delivery and melodic refrain" ~ Backseat Mafia

Italy-based indie rock outfit Onceweresixty present their new single 'Don't Get Stuck', the first taste of their forthcoming album 'Loco Sunset Boulevard / Ghetto Blast Noise Machine'. This 8-track offering in two parts, structured as a double EP, released on CD and vinyl by Uglydog Records, together with Beautiful Losersand PrettyOK Records.

Onceweresixty was founded by Marco Lorenzoni (guitars, vocals and keyboards) and Luca Sella (drums, guitar and vocals), who began collaborating in 2001 via their old band MR60. The band is rounded out by Enrico Grando (keyboards and saxophone), who joined the band shortly after their 2021 release 'The Flood', a concept album about the consciousness of the insignificance of humans against the force of nature, and a society bent on self-destruction.

Over the past three years, this double EP took form at Villa Albrizzi Marini, a magical place in the Venice countryside hills en route to the Alps. Onceweresixty set up their studio on this 1400-villa property, owned by the Armenian Church. Marco Lorenzoni explains, "The Villa - an ongoing project of urban regeneration via art activism - is absolutely inspiring and amazing, and we’re glad to be part of it. Onceweresixty and our own label Uglydog Records have always been at the forefront of promoting the arts, supporting artists and creating social connections. This is our little Warhol Factory in the countryside."

Describing their own music as "weird psych folk pop", Onceweresixty draws their roots back to an ancient tale about the ghost of a beatnik biker living in a broken toy keyboard. "Sometimes he takes control of our minds and makes us play strange weird songs," says Lorenzoni, who continues to tell the tale of the band's origin.

“Immediately upon entering Texas from Las Vegas, drunk on tequila, we lost our way, the desert all around us and not a drop of water. Desperate, we recited a few passages from the Bible by heart, inventing what we didn't remember. It was at that moment that MR60 came to our rescue. He hosted us on his ranch, quenched our thirst and gave us bags of top quality tobacco. There we found everything we needed: out of tune guitars, out of tune tuners, Paleolithic barrel organs, a Stradivarius and a buffalo skull... We never left…

"Well actually, we did leave," Lorenzoni admits. "somehow adult life took us one by one into everyday office routines and familiar responsibilities with bills to pay and so on."

Relaunched as Onceweresixty in 2018 after a 10-year hiatus, the band began conquering new musical territory, while still paying homage the sonic ghosts of such artists as Belle & Sebastian, Pavement, Morphine, Low, Herman Dune, Silver Jews and The Velvet Underground,.

Their indie dream of the early 2000s ultimately gave way to colder and leaner sounds, better reflecting the current times. Luca Sella explains, "If MR60 used to compare the north-eastern Italy cultural desert to the Texan desert landscapes, today that desert is a post-apocalyptic land populated by brain-eating zombies. Anger and ignorance are everywhere. Everything is lost. Or maybe not”

As of January 23, 'Don't Get Stuck' will be available everywhere digitally, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The double EP 'Loco Sunset Boulevard / Ghetto Blast Noise Machine' will be released on March 22, is available for pre-order directly from the artist via Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Music written by M.Lorenzoni, L. Sella, E. Grando
Lyrics written by M. Lorenzoni
Marco Lorenzoni - guitars, vocals & keyboards
Luca Sella - drums, guitar & vocals
Enrico Grando - keyboards, vocals & saxophone
Recorded and produced by Onceweresixty at VAMpires! Room
Mixed by Mauro Martinuz at Bottega Sonora
Mastered by Federico Pelle at Basement Studio
Cover artwork by Freddy Mason
Studio photos of Onceweresixty by Ilaria Baggio
Live photos of Onceweresixty by Veronica Bassani and Freddy Mason
This record is dedicated to Loco, who was known to be a good dog, and Enrico Pese, who was known to be a good guy

Northlane Announce "Mirror's Edge" EP + Share Video for "Miasma"

January 23, 2024

Australian heavy vanguards Northlane have announced their new EP, Mirror's Edge, out April 12 (Independent). Alongside the news comes the colossal new single "Miasma," featuring Winston McCall from Parkway Drive.

Pre-order the EP here.

Watch the video below.

"Miasma" is a throwback to Northlane's early heavy canon with its scathing and complex guitars, dynamic drumming, and commanding vocals. A tense song born out of frustration that has reached its tipping point, "Miasma" features a crushing performance from Parkway Drive frontman Winston McCall. McCall's guest appearance is a significant one for Northlane because, as guitarist Josh Smith explains, Parkway Drive set the blueprint for all heavy bands in Australia.

"Parkway Drive were always our number one inspiration as a band," Smith says. "When we first started, their DVD created a roadmap to success, which we did our best to follow. At a time where every band was ripping their sound off, we chose to take our own path but instead emulate their work ethic, and for us it paid dividends. Over time, that respect has flowed both ways. With this track being so heavy, we could'’t think of a more perfect guest than Winston. He flew down from Byron just after we toured together in North America and we tracked his parts in Jon's home studio. His brute voice just tore the track to pieces and we were stunned with the result."

Mirror's Edge was recorded with their old friend and revered producer Will Putney in August this year. Described by Jon Deiley (songwriter/guitarist) as "the greatest hits of Northlane sounds," the EP is a nostalgic journey through all the colors on their sonic palette, with bonus shades from special guests Winston McCall (Parkway Drive) and Ian Kenny (Karnivool/Birds of Tokyo) — two of the most influential artists in Northlane's history. Their former bass player, Brendon Padjasek, also stopped by the studio to lend his scream to one of the tracks.

Penned just over a year after the release of their #1 award-winning album, Obsidian, the road to Mirror's Edge was a bumpy one. Instead of riding high from the success of the album, the simmering tension and communication breakdown between band members threatened to engulf Northlane at any moment. Northlane tackled their issues head-on at a writing retreat in Victoria's Yarra Valley, where they worked through their problems and unlocked new channels of creativity in the process that reflects through the EP. From the expansive prog of "Afterimage" to their signature bottom-heavy groove and viscous breakdown of "Kraft" and compulsive beat and electronic focus of "Dante," Mirror's Edge is full of Northlane's most vivid colours and textures.

Thematically, the EP is about looking at yourself and reflecting on the past one final time before leaving it all behind to find hope in what lies beyond the mirror's edge. With the recurring theme of acceptance binding these songs together, frontman Marcus Bridge is hopeful that Mirror's Edge will be the coda on this part of his personal life, so much of which he has shared in the last couple of Northlane releases.

"It's like looking at your reflection, looking at the past and everything I've been thinking about, or caught up within the last little while," Bridge says. "There's not much positivity in these songs, but it is about acceptance. Hopefully, by putting these songs out, I can leave that stuff behind and I can kind of find a new direction and something to be positive about on the other side of this mirror's edge."

ABOUT NORTHLANE:
Northlane are a chart topping, award-winning metal band from Sydney, Australia. Through fearless evolution and unmatched innovation, Northlane have become vanguards of heavy music across the globe, entirely on their own terms. The band have released six acclaimed albums, including ARIA Chart #1 records Obsidian (2022) and Node (2015), alongside Singularity (2013), Mesmer (2017), and Alien (2019) which all debuted at #3. Northlane have also won three consecutive ARIA Awards for Best Hard Rock or Heavy Metal Album, as well as two AIR Awards for Best Independent Heavy Album.

NUCLEAR BLAST - launches collaboration with The Sandbox for unique virtual world experience

January 23, 2024

The new year starts with a blast for all metalheads, tech nerds, and everyone yearning to dive headfirst into 2024 with a virtual adventure: today, Nuclear Blast Records is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with The Sandbox.

Both die-hards and newcomers are invited to embark on a journey into a virtual world dedicated to metal culture and gaming: Blast Valley. This land hosted within The Sandbox is the ultimate realm for metalheads, including a giant scene at the heart of a volcano, a vinyl factory, secret crypts, and (of course) a bar.

Players from all around the world are invited to unite and participate in the most important quest of their lives: to revive the power of metal within Blast Valley.
Guided by the keeper of the land and guardian of the metal spirit, "The Reaper", the main quest, once accepted, is to explore every corner of the land to complete a series of tasks to bring the metal energy back.

Following its launch today, Blast Valley will evolve through time and welcome in new events such as virtual gigs, avatar collection launch, and release parties.
You can access the experience here:
https://www.sandbox.game/en/experiences/blast-valley/f1f92871-28df-4f5c-86ad-cff277a95c0d/page/

Nuclear Blast states:
"Blast Valley is a place where unforgettable experiences are crafted and where bonds with newfound friends are forged. Join us as we celebrate the power of metal and revel in the camaraderie it fosters. Prepare for some upcoming surprises with partners from the scene."

About Nuclear Blast
For 35 years and counting, Nuclear Blast Records has been synonymous with the worldwide advancement of heavy music. Founded in Donzdorf, Germany in 1987, Nuclear Blast is part of Believe, one of the world's leading digital music companies. Nuclear Blast boasts a roster of over 150 bands. Their offices in Los Angeles, London, Hamburg, and Paris have helped build the label’s trusted global reputation with numerous album chart entries, high-profile tours, and continual signings of new and heritage acts. The label has additional representatives in Australia, Brazil, and Sweden, amongst others.

About The Sandbox:
The Sandbox, a subsidiary of Animoca Brands, is one of the decentralized virtual worlds that has been fueling the recent growth of virtual real estate demand, having partnered with major brands including Warner Music Group, Ubisoft, The Rabbids, Cut the Rope, Tony Hawk, Gucci Vault, The Walking Dead, Invincible, Snoop Dogg, Adidas, Deadmau5, Steve Aoki, SM Entertainment, The Smurfs, Care Bears, and Atari. Building on the existing The Sandbox IP that has more than 40 million global installs on mobile, The Sandbox metaverse offers players and creators a decentralized and intuitive platform to create immersive 3D worlds and game experiences and to safely store, trade, and monetize their creations. For more information, please visit www.sandbox.game and follow the regular updates on Twitter, Medium, and Discord

Ian Munsick’s ‘White Buffalo: Voices of the West’ Available On Demand Beginning Jan. 26

January 22, 2024

Known for his ability to transport people to the west by way of his sawing fiddle and coyote cries, Wyoming native Ian Munsick’s sophomore album White Buffalo painted a vivid lyrical picture of his homeland and its unique cast of characters. Now, Munsick is expanding on those depictions with his documentary White Buffalo: Voices of the West, arriving to streaming platforms on Friday, Jan. 26.

The documentary will initially be available on Apple iTunes, Apple, Google Play, Kanopy (Libraries), Microsoft, Vudu, YouTube Rentals and Amazon TVOD. After 60-90 days, it will become available on Freevee, The Roku Channel and Tubi.

“Some of the best kept secrets are out there, thriving, where the prairie meets the mountains,” Munsick reflects. “I was lucky enough to be born and raised in the heart of cowboy country, mostly untouched by the outside world. It’s a culture where Cowboys and Native Americans are one in the same. I’ve always wanted to use my platform to help shed light on what’s been hidden for decades, and Voices of the West was a great way to convey an important message, while artistically collaborating with a people who rarely get the opportunity to have their voices heard.”

Spanning nearly an hour, the film expands on the concept of Munsick's sophomore album White Buffalo, with the white buffalo representing a sacred symbol for the plains tribes of Native America, its return signaling prosperity and rebirth. Delving into conversations with Pro Buckin’ Horse producer and entrepreneur from the Blackfoot Tribe, Dougie Hall; rancher, horse trainer and actor from the Crow Tribe, Stephen Yellowtail; and cowgirl from the Blackfeet Nation, Sammy Jo Bird; Munsick explores the modern-day relationship between cowboys, ranchers and Native American tribes, and how they often rely on each other to live off the land out west.

Munsick first premiered the documentary to an intimate crowd of 150 attendees on Wednesday, Dec. 6 at the Beverly Theater in Las Vegas during NFR. Following the screening, the cast was joined by Cam Mackey, director/cinematographer from the Tohono O'Odham Nation and executive producer Caroline Munsick, for a panel discussion moderated by film, television actor and enrolled member of the Lakota Nations, Mo Brings Plenty. The 30-minute conversation highlighted the importance of sharing Native and Western experiences from those who live them in order to shed an authentic light on the culture.

The event was sponsored by Wrangler; Boot Barn; Musket Powder Seasoning; Big Horn Bison Ranch; Southern Recipe Small Batch Pork Rinds; Sheridan Travel & Tourism; Montana Silversmiths; Lone River Beverage Company, and Pendleton Whisky.

Munsick released his full-length sophomore album White Buffalo earlier this year, earning accolades from Billboard, American Songwriter, People, MusicRow and more. Grammy.com remarked, “Munsick's ability to turn his Western upbringing into relatable sentiments is the epitome of what makes him special… his passion for his homeland — from the culture to the people — rings through in both the lyrics and the musicality.”

ABOUT IAN MUNSICK:
A native son of Wyoming, Ian Munsick is painting a stampeding, spirited portrait of the American West with his sophomore album White Buffalo, out now. The 18-track album spans unfiltered tales of romance and ranch life, hard-working anthems with honkytonk hooks and mountain-time odes to family and forever-young fun. It builds upon the spacious roots-pop beauty he introduced on his major label debut, Coyote Cry. Over the past three years, the 30-year-old has accumulated over half a BILLION global streams and a host of accolades. He has been named an “Artist to Watch” by Spotify, CMT, Fender, MusicRow and more. A seasoned entertainer, having grown up tending cattle by day and playing music in a family band each night, Munsick toured recently alongside country music superstars Morgan Wallen and Cody Johnson, and will serve as direct support for select dates of Lainey Wilson’s Country’s Cool Again tour in 2024. Beyond his noteworthy professional accomplishments, he has also become both a husband and a father. Now the Warner Music Nashville recording artist and multi-instrumentalist is representing his home, and its special cast of people, like never before. The first release from White Buffalo, standout duet “Long Live Cowgirls” (with Cody Johnson), hit No. 1 on SiriusXM’s The Highway Hot 30 Countdown, was named one of Amazon Music’s Best Country Songs of 2022 and recently received RIAA Gold-certification alongside “Long Haul” off his debut album Coyote Cry; while Munsick’s solo version of “Long Live Cowgirls” impacted country radio on Oct. 23. Fans of Ian Munsick will always find an open heart, natural awe and plainspoken honesty as he rides on… bringing the West to the rest.

Peyton Parrish Announces First North American Dates of 2024!

January 22, 2024

Peyton Parrish will kick off US dates in May at the Palladium NYC (May 3rd), The Palladium in Worcestor, MA (May 4th) and for the first time ever in Canada at MTelus in Montreal, QC on May 5th. The upcoming tour will give fans the chance to experience Peyton's music live and see for themselves what all the buzz is about. The US dates come hot off an overseas tour of Europe beginning February 2, 2024 in London – which is selling out fast. In August 2023, his dynamic set at Wacken Open Air Festival Schleswig-Holstein, Germany created a word-of-mouth phenomenon to rock fans leading to a successful run of sold out shows in Germany.

May 3 - New York, NY - Palladium Time Square
May 4 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
May 5 - Montreal, QC - MTelus

Get your tickets here:

https://www.bandsintown.com/a/6253227?came_from=206

Last week hard rock artist Peyton Parrish’s new album SOUL dropped as the #1 album all genres in the world beating out Teddy Swims, Chris Stapleton, and Taylor Swift. Peyton Parrish has built an army of supporters worldwide through his YouTube and TikTok, amassing an average of 20 million plays per single he releases. Currently, he has over 1.6 million monthly listeners and is growing! The new single "Poetry Glass" was released over the holidays and has flown over 1 million spins. The video has over 1.6 million views.

SOUL is Available at:

Apple Music

Explore music from Peyton Parrish on Spotify

WATCH "Poetry Glass" on YouTube!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ac2OcrKYPE

The 10-track album is a blend of rock, electronic and pop with Peyton’s signature raspy vocals. SOUL includes “Poetry Glass,” an edgy pop-rock anthem with a catchy hook and melody. The album also features “Stuck in the Dark,” a moving ballad showcasing Peyton’s vocal range, as well as “Fallen Angel,” an uplifting song with a powerful message of inner strength. “This album is really personal for me,”said Peyton. “The songs explore relationships, challenging life experiences and finding the strength within yourself to get through them all. I put my whole heart and SOUL into this record, and I can't wait for my fans to experience the journey with me.”

Peyton’s previous album Rise of Vikingr dropping number #1 on the iTunes charts with viral hits "Dane", "Dragur", and "My Mother Told Me" metal version.

Renowned for his unique blend of throaty Viking-inspired metal and post-grunge rock, Peyton Parrish has made a mark through original compositions and gained widespread recognition for his inventive cover renditions. In 2023 his rock-inspired Disney cover album The Most Magical Album on Earth gave Peyton Parrish his first Billboard #1 album. Other accolades include Billboard #1 with his cover of Hercules "Go the Distance" following his first Billboard #1 with his cover of Mulan's "I'll Make a Man Out of You".

For More Information Please Visit:

Dark alt-rock duo Lovelorn Dolls releases 'Beautiful Chaos' EP and haunting video

January 22, 2024

Female-fronted dark gothic synth-rock duo Lovelorn Dolls presents 'Beautiful Chaos', the second tale unleashed from their fourth album 'Deadtime Stories', in which the band break free from the dreamy realms of goth pop offered on their latest single 'Dream World'.

An ode to love stories gone wrong, here they inject some beautiful chaos into our lives. With the disclaimer "Any resemblance to real people is purely coincidental", the accompanying video thrusts their tiny girl protagonist into a descent towards a darker world, trapping her in an padded asylum room haunted by beautifully chaotic characters.

Hailing from Brussels, Belgium, Lovelorn Dolls is made up of Kristell Lowagie (lyrics, vocals, arrangements) and Bernard Daubresse (music, programming, guitars, production). Purveyors of synth-laced gothic rock, their sound resembles a mix of Theatre of Tragedy, Lacuna Coil and The Birthday Massacre.

Just as childhood can be drawn into a fantasy world, Lovelorn Dolls leads us into an extraordinary, dark yet romantic universe where Tim Burton's visuals collide with the glam touch of The Birthday Massacre and freaky extravaganza of Marilyn Manson - a landscape where creepy cute meets gothic rock music.

'Beautiful Chaos' reveals a grittier and darker side of the band, featuring intense guitar riffs, twisted synth melodies and haunting female vocals. This sonic journey is rounded out with five bonus remixes, each delving into diverse sound universes - from minimal EBM to industrial goth and ethereal wave - thanks to contributors The Breath of Life, Absynthe of Faith, Audiopyre, Restriction 9 and Antidote for Annie.

Produced, mixed and mastered by Italian producer Maxx Maryan, known for his work with cult electro-goth metal duo Helalyn Flowers and IMJUDAS, the 'Deadtime Stories' album will be released in late summer via Alfa Matrix / SPLEEN+, a Belgian label whose catalogue includes such artists as Front 242, Ayria, Recoil, Leather Strip and Alien Vampires.

"Locked in the Room of Despair: Step inside the eerie confines of an asylum, where our characters find themselves trapped in a room of despair. This video explores psychological struggles, haunting visions, and intense emotions that manifest within these walls. As the music unfolds, so too does the unraveling mystery of each character's story," frontwoman Kristell Lowagie speaks of the new chaotic tale.

"As the music unfolds, so too does the unraveling mystery of each character's story. The idea behind this song is to talk about divorce or separation in the broad sense, especially when a relationship is toxic. In general, the problems do not stop there, especially when there are children who become an issue or a means of pressure. Sometimes it gets even more chaotic. As for the title of the song 'Beautiful Chaos', it is of course to be taken ironically.".

'Beautiful Chaos' is out now, available from fine digital platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp, where the band's full catalogue can also be found.

CREDITS
Lyrics & vocals by Kristell Lowagie
Music by Bernard Daubresse
Kristell Lowagie - vocals
Bernard Daubresse – guitars & synths
Additional arrangements, programming and synths by Maxx Maryan Recorded in Brussels and Rome
Produced, mixed and mastered by Maxx Maryan
Released via Alfa Matrix
All artwork, design & illustrations by Kristell Lowagie
Artist photos by Kristell In Wonderland
Video filmed, edited and color graded by Lovelorn Dolls
Video actors: Gabriel Depasse, Jacqueline Crabbe, Magali Rousseau, Jean-Michel Hauseux, Mathis "The Wolf"

Keep up with Lovelorn Dolls
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Soundcloud | TikTok | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Press contact

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud | Instagram | LinkedIn | Email

UADA Announces West Coast Tour Dates in Support of ROTTING CHRIST

January 22, 2024

Stream // Order // Download Here

Enigmatic black metal masters UADA will be retraversing the void with a handful of North American performances in support of the band's latest album, 'Crepuscule Natura.' The band will be supporting ROTTING CHRIST in the Pacific Northwest from March 25 - 27 and then will continue the trek through Western and Central Canada from March 29 - April 1. The full itinerary can be found below!

In addition, UADA will also be appearing at Milwaukee Metal Fest on Friday, May 17.

'Crepuscule Natura,' was released worldwide on September 8, 2023 via Eisenwald and isavailable HERE. The album was named among the best albums of 2023 by Knotfest, This Day in Metal, Riff Riot, Metal Sucks, Metal Hammer Germany, and many others!

UADA North American Tour Dates 2024:

Supporting Rotting Christ:

03/25: Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom

03/26: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon

03/27: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theater

03/29: Calgary, AB @ Dickens

03/30: Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room

03/31: Regina, SK @ The Exchange

04/01: Winnipeg, MB @ Park Theater

U.S. Festival Appearances:

05/17: Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest

Ever since the cloaked Pacific Northwest band appeared on the music radar, UADA has always been electrified by both polar worlds. Their echelon was stark and meaningful. Within the stretch of three albums as well as dense and triumphant live shows across the globe, they have not only spiked the map of extreme metal music but their unrelenting touring schedule and unbridled will to push forward into new horizons has also earned them a reception in all the extremes imaginable, be it worship or spite.

Five sonic vessels form the nucleus of 'Crepuscule Natura,' and within it`s 41 minutes, the record easily creates a sonic and aesthetic bridge between the band`s debut, 'Devoid of Light' (2016), and their sophomore effort 'Cult of a Dying Sun' (2018), only to forge onward upon the relentless path set forth with 'Djinn' (2020). Here, a more refined and muscular, yet no less melodic stronghold awaits. On 'Crepuscule Natura,' UADA provides all their memorable hooks, tasteful leads, and riding blasts in their distinct style, balancing their epic surging melodies with powerful spurts of aggression. Just like the band's smoke-heavy shows, the momentum and emphasis of their craft always stays grandiose, mythical, and triumphant – all the while making sure to birth a couple of new fan favorites and soon-to-be staple live songs.

'Crepuscule Natura', once again graced by the artwork of legendary Kris Verwimp and photography by Peter Beste, shows UADA on fire to unleash the marrow of black heavy metal.

Album Credits:

All music by UADA

Mixed and Mastered by Jake Superchi at Obsidian Spells

Album Cover & Moon emblem by Kris Verwimp

Photography by Peter Beste

Layout by Valkenstijn

Released via Eisenwald

Follow/Stream UADA:

Digital album released on September 8, 2023

CD formats to be shipped on or around September 15, 2023

Vinyl formats to be shipped on or around November 3, 2023

ROTTING CHRIST Announce North American Tour

January 22, 2024

Back in 1987, Sakis Tolis and his brother Themis started climbing through the dark catacombs of Greece's metal scene as a grindcore act. Now, 35 years later, Rotting Christ tour the world as one of the biggest bands in black metal.

Rotting Christ just announced their 14th album. ΠΡΟ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥ (Pro Xristoy) is bound to hold a revered place in the band's heretical history. Always true to their name, with Pro Xristoy ("Before Christ"), the band pay tribute to the last of the Pagan kings who resisted the spread of Christianity.

Pro Xristoy comes out May 24. But lucky fans will get a sneak peek at the new album come March when Rotting Christ tours North America. The band will hit two dates on the West Coast of the United States before playing a string of five shows across Canada. Joining them for this run are Uada and Abigail Williams.

Rotting Christ 2024 Northwest US and Canadian Tour

March 25 - Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom [TICKETS]
March 26 - Seattle, WA @ El Corazon [TICKETS]
March 27 - Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theater [TICKETS]
March 29 - Calgary, AB @ Dickens [TICKETS]
March 30 - Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room [TICKETS]
March 31 - Regina, SK @ The Exchange [TICKETS]
April 1 - Winnipeg, MB @ Park Theater [TICKETS]

Before touching down in North America, Rotting Christ are heading off on a tour of Latin America. Fans from Mexico to Argentina will have the pleasure of banging their heads to an unholy litany of the band’s greatest hits. They’ll also be treated to new songs off Pro Xristoy that are bound to become setlist staples.

In the dimly lit catacombs of extreme metal, one name stands as a monolith: ROTTING CHRIST. Sakis Tholis and his brother Themis started this band together back in 1987. In the three decades since, these Greek titans have left their blackened imprint all over the metal world. They’ve released 13 studio albums and played more than 1,3000 concerts around the globe. Underneath all this hard work, Rotting Christ have but one vision – an urge to not only push the boundaries of extreme metal, but to keep reinventing themselves along the way.

Rotting Christ’s evolution has unfolded across several distinct chapters. After starting out closer to the barely controlled chaos of grindcore, they went on to establish the iconic sound of Hellenic black metal. Their albums often embraces refined gothic soundscapes, only to plunge back into the depths of blasphemous fervour. Each chapter marked another, further exploration, and an unwavering commitment to bush boundaries.

But the real turning point came in 2007, when Rotting Christ signed a pact with Season of Mist. They unleashed a series of albums for the French label that defied any and all expectations. From the piercing Theogonia and the symphonic grandeur of Aelo to the ritualistic intensity of Κατά Τον Δαίμονα Εαυτού, the cinematic experiences created by Rotting Christ became a spectacle of bombastic atmospheres, mesmerizing choirs, and neo-classical arrangements. The unexpected is their modus operandi, with the use of various languages (Latin, Arabic, Greek, English) as well as the extensive use of famous poetry woven into their music, like Edgar Allan Poe’s ‘The Raven’ on The Heretics.

In 2019, Rotting Christ’s epic journey continued with The Apocryphal Spell compilation, which offers fans an intimate glimpse into unreleased and rare material. This allowed them to gather strength, preparing for the release of their next, highly anticipated, 14th full-length studio album: Pro Xristoy.

Pro Xristoy (‘Before Christ’ in Greek), serves as a fervent tribute to the last Pagan kings who resisted the onslaught of Christianity, guarding their ancient values and knowledge. In this thematic odyssey, intricately woven through tracks such as ‘The Apostate’ and ‘Ygdrassil’, Rotting Christ delves into the legacies of historical figures such as Flavius Claudius Julianus and Nordic mythological kings, embodying the might of Pagan wisdom in the face of Christian adversity. The album encapsulates the essence of Rotting Christ’s signature style – melodic, yet harsh at times – reinventing themselves yet again, while remaining rooted in their 35-year legacy.

Line-up
Sakis Tolis: Guitar/Vocals
Themis Tolis: Drums
Kostas "Spades" Heliotis: Bass
Kostis Fouk: Guitar

Guest Musicians
Amdroniki Skoula - Vocals (on 'La Letra Del Diavolo')
Nikos Kerkiras - Keyboard
Christina Alexiou - Choir
Maria Tsironi - Choir
Alexandros Loyziotis - Choir
Vasilis Karatzas - Choir

Andrew Liles - Narration (on 'The Apostate', 'Pretty World, Pretty Dies')
Kim Diaz Holm - Narration (on 'Ygdrassil')

Recording Studio
Deva Sounds Studios (Athens, Greece)

Producer
Sakis Tolis

Sound Engineer
Fotis Bernando
Aggelos Karatzas

Mixing
Jens Borgen at Fascination Street Studios (Örebro, Sweden)

Mastering
Tony Lidgren at Fascination Street Studios (Örebro, Sweden)

Artwork Artists
Thomas Cole - Artwork
Adrien Bousson - Digital Processing

Biography
Sebastien Gamez

Links:
Official Website: https://www.rotting-christ.com/en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rottingchristofficial/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/rottingchristofficial/
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/athanatoieste
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RottingChristOfficia
Bandcamp: https://rottingchristofficial.bandcamp.com/
Apple Music: http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rotting-christ/id28441629
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7FhkwcO8Jd7BRWdllBpXBJ

Shop: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/rotting-shop
Stream/Download: https://orcd.co/rcheretics

BAT SIGN TO NUCLEAR BLAST RECORDS

January 22, 2024

Richmond, Virginia metal-punk trio BAT has been delivering their own blood-spattered horror since ascending from the underground a decade ago on a dark, leather-winged trajectory. Today the band forged a new partnership and home at Nuclear Blast Records

BAT's Ryan Waste states, "After working the last 14 years with Nuclear Blast we’ve become family at this point. There was no question in my mind to bring BAT under their wing when the time was right. We’re thrilled to join forces and plan to push it even harder with the support of the label. You can expect more touring worldwide, along with new music and visuals as early as this March. Until then, stay heavy and beware of the BAT!"

Nuclear Blast American Label Manager & A&R Tommy Jones comments, "Heavy Metal and horror have been synonymous in our counter-culture since well before ALICE COOPER sang about the 'Man Behind the Mask' and DOKKEN stated they 'Don’t wanna dream no more…' Through decades of this marriage, and with the influence of a snaggletoothed warpig, BAT was spawned. We have such a great relationship with MUNICIPAL WASTE it made sense to check out Ryan and Nick’s other ripper of a band, BAT. I am excited to open the window at NB and let the BAT fly in! Beware the BAT y'all!"

This Spring, BAT is joining forces with their friends in the legendary EXCITER to play for all the Heavy Metal Maniacs in Latin America for the first time!

Confirmed dates for the Latin American 2024 tour are:
MAR 29  MX MEXICO CITY @ Circo Volador
MAR 30  CR   SAN JOSE @ Peppers Club
MAR 31  CO BOGOTA @ Boro Room
APR 01   AR BUENOS AIRES @ Arena Sur
APR 04   BR   BELO HORIZONTE @ Caverna Rock Pub
APR 05   BR BRASILIA DF @ Toinha
APR 06   BR SAO PAOLO @ Jau Club
APR 08 CL SANTIAGO @ Teatro Coliseo

Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming music!

More information:
https://bewareofthebat.bandcamp.com/
https://www.facebook.com/bewareofthebat/
https://www.instagram.com/bewareofbat/
https://www.youtube.com/@BATBAND

Sylvaine Announces New EP

January 22, 2024

SYLVAINE has grown into a guiding light for ambient post-metal and atmospheric black metal. But today, she's tracing back to her roots on Eg Er Framand.

Growing up in Norway, amidst the contrasts between nature and urbanity, Kathrine Shepard often performed in the Kampen Church in Oslo. This 19th century relic is where she recorded the entirety of her ethereal new EP.

Lead single "Dagsens Augo Sloknar" comes from mysterious origins. The lyrics were written in 1891 by Elias Blix, a professor-turned-politician, who also wrote hymns. Staying true to the original's delicate, reverent melody, Sylvaine sings in a breathy, elongated whisper that's both haunting and soothing.

The music video for "Dagsens Augo Sloknar Ut" was directed and produced by William Lacalmontie. Kathrine dances and enchants across a magnificent tapestry of poetic landscapes, striking the beautiful balance that's at the heart of Eg Er Framand.

Watch the video below.

Eg Er Framand is out March 22 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/SylvaineEgErFramand
Pre-save: https://orcd.co/egerframand

With "Dagsens Augo Sloknar Ut", Sylvaine opens the book on an intricate, transformative fairy tale.

"A beating heart so pure
Who wished to feel once more
As her eyes slowly opened to the world

She lifted her head
And at once beheld
A light in front of her

A path to take
The choice to make
To lead her on her way

A story about to begin
Of a soul ignited again
On a road to turn loose dismay?"

Kathrine Shepard, the visionary artist behind the evocative musical project SYLVAINE, weaves an intricate tapestry of emotions through the language of music. A transcendental bridge between worlds, a mesmerizing duality that encapsulates the beautiful and the harsh, light and darkness, serenity and chaos, and the delicate balance between the external world and the inner sanctum of the soul. It is a symphony that harmonizes the human experience with its spiritual origins – a resonance of something beyond the tangible.

Sylvaine’s compositions are a visceral journey through the vast spectrum of emotions that the complexities of the human experience have to offer. They encapsulate the inherent struggle of being an entity in this world, yet not entirely of it. Katherine’s music serves as a conduit for her innermost feelings, a cathartic expression of the eternal longing that resides within the very core of her melodies.

Akin to a fairytale spun from the threads of Norwegian folklore, a narrative that resonates with the spirits of ancient woods and the whispers of long forgotten creatures. With every ethereal note and haunting melody, she conjures images of untamed forests, of misty clearings inhabited by mystical beings. In this artistry, there is an undeniable sense of transcendence, where listeners are transported beyond the confines of the ordinary into a dreamscape where reality and fantasy converge. A profound sense of wonder and allure creates a unique musical alchemy – with a touch of enchantment that lingers long after the music has ceased.

With four albums and one split-EP released to date, Sylvaine’s ethereal soundscapes have been taken to stages across Europe, North America and South America, leaving audiences mesmerized by the transcendent power of the band’s live performances. Two of these albums have been nominated for the Norwegian Grammy Awards Spellemannprisen in the category of metal. The ability to transport listeners to otherworldly realm through her music is a manifestation of the artistry & profound impact the band can bring.

As Sylvaine prepares to unveil her upcoming EP, Eg Er Framand, she embarks on a deeply introspective and serene journey through the rich tapestry of Norwegian heritage and tradition. Folk tales of old are brought to life in this new chapter of her musical odyssey, offering a glimpse into the depths of her creative spirit and an exploration of the roots that anchor her artistry. A reflection of myths is embraced through exquisite sonic realms.

Line-up
Sylvaine - Vocals, Church Organ, Guitars, Synthesizers & Percussion

Recording Studio
Kampen Kirke

Sound Engineer
Sylvaine

Mixing Engineer
Magnus Lindberg (Magnus Lindberg Productions/VRTKL Audio/Redmount Studio)

Mastering Engineer
Karl Daniel Lidén

Biography:Sébastien Gamez

Cover art & Photography:Helena Aguilar Mayans

Layout & Graphic Design: Dehn Sora

Pre-save:
https://orcd.co/egerframand

Pre-order:
https://shop.season-of-mist.com/list/sylvaine-eg-er-framand

Links:
Official Website: https://www.sylvainemusic.com/
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sylvaine/455094955
Bandcamp: https://sylvainemusic.bandcamp.com/music
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sylvainemusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sylvainemusic/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5C9ocrDvsfSz8qcxG70QEe
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/SylvaineMusic
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYoMxOgKpnqGrj-impj1wDQ
Last.FM: https://www.last.fm/music/Sylvaine

Booking Contact:
Alexander Obert - alexander@doomstarbookings.com

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Coke Bottle Green

IN FLAMES ANNOUNCE SPRING 2024 US TOUR

January 22, 2024

Sweden's iconic masters of metal IN FLAMES are set to infiltrate the US for a spring headlining US tour with special guests GATECREEPER and CREEPING DEATH. The skull crushing lineup will kick off the excursion on May 1st in Portland, ME and will wrap it up on May 26th in Dallas, TX.

Commenting on the tour, vocalist Anders Fridén says:

"We are very excited to have these two killer bands, Gatecreeper and Creeping Death, on this run. I foresee a night of huge riffs, blast beats, head banging, mosh pitting, people loosing their minds and more. Come on down, lets have a good time!!!"

GATECREEPER frontman Chase Mason adds:

"We are very excited to tour with In Flames. We have been fans for a long time and got the opportunity to meet and play with the band last summer. In Flames has been a huge influence on our newer material and hitting the road with them after working on our record is an ideal scenario for us."

Ticket Onsale Info:
In Flames Presale: Tuesday, January 23 at 10:00 AM EST (Password: Foregone)
Blabbermouth Presale: Wednesday, January 24 at 10:00 AM EST (Password: Maker)
Public On Sale: Friday, January 26 at 10:00 AM Local Time
Purchase tickets here: https://www.inflames.com/tour

US Tour w/GATE CREEPER & CREEPING DEATH
May 1 - Portland, ME - State Theatre
May 2 - Hampton Beach, NH - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
May 3 - Brooklyn, NY - Warsaw
May 4 - Wilmington, DE - The Queen
May 5 - Norfolk, VA - The Norva
May 7 - Charleston, SC - Charleston Music Hall
May 8 - Greensboro, NC - Piedmont Hall
May 9 - Atlanta, GA - Buckhead
May 10 - Daytona, FL - Rockville
May 12 - Huntsville, AL - Mars Music Hall
May 14 - Nashville, TN - Marathon Music Works
May 16 - Pittsburgh, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre
May 17 - Buffalo, NY - The Town Ballroom
May 18 - Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple
May 19 - Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metal Fest
May 21 - Detroit, MI - St. Andrews
May 22 - St. Louis, MO - The Hawthorn
May 23 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom
May 24 - Austin, TX - Emo's
May 25 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
May 26 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues

The Swedish legends IN FLAMES are currently on the road in support of their latest, critically praised record, Foregone, which Blabbermouth called "the finest album to bear the band's name since at least Come Clarity" and MetalSucks describing the release as "a stick of dynamite with a first-place ribbon attached; a sensational rejuvenation that even the staunchest doomsayers will have a hard time picking apart."

Nearly a year since the album's release, IN FLAMES continue to slay audiences worldwide with new tracks like 'End The Transmission,' 'Foregone Pt. 1,' 'Foregone Pt. 2' and 'Meet Your Maker.' The band will embark in late January for a year long tour in support of the record, including jaunts in Asia, US and Europe.

Purchase/Stream Foregone: https://inflames.bfan.link/foregone-newalbum.ema

Joining IN FLAMES on the spring's heaviest tour are labelmates, Phoenix death metal trailblazers GATECREEPER, who recently wrapped recording of their massively anticipated 3rd full-length album that's expected later this year. Follow the band at https://www.facebook.com/gatecreeper/ for impending announcements.

Rounding out the package is Denton, TX death metal favorites CREEPING DEATH who are on the road supporting their recently released album, Boundless Domain. Follow the band at https://www.facebook.com/creepingdeathtx/.

About IN FLAMES
IN FLAMES are one of the biggest metal bands in the world - never shying away from pushing their artistic boundaries, crafting music that's as catchy as it is crushing. Formed in 1990, the band is considered one of the forefathers of melodic death metal and the purveyors of the ‘Gothenburg sound'. With now fourteen studio albums under their belt, countless successful tours around the globe playing with the likes of Black Sabbath, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest and Slayer - with millions of records sold and a massive fanbase worldwide, IN FLAMES have proven to be an unstoppable force. From their 1994 debut Lunar Strain onwards, the band's intricate twin guitar attack, melodic vocals and superb arrangements have given them a signature sound that has evolved throughout the years.

IN FLAMES are
Anders Fridén | Vocals
Björn Gelotte | Guitar / Vocals
Chris Broderick | Guitar
Tanner Wayne | Drums

Liam Wilson | Bass

RICK WAKEMAN ANNOUNCES THE FINAL SOLO TOUR

January 22, 2024

AN ALL NEW SHOW FEATURING HIGHLIGHTS FROM HIS CAREER WITH YES AND HIS SOLO WORK, INCLUDING THE PREMIERE OF THE BRAND NEW YESSONATA

The ultimate keyboard wizard, Rick Wakeman CBE, will be embarking on a tour of the US with a series of solo piano concerts for the last time in 2024. Rick, who has become almost as well-known for his intimate piano shows as his prog rock extravaganzas, has decided that after a career spanning over 50 years, he is calling a halt to lengthy American one-man show tours, in order to concentrate on composing, recording and collaborating with other musicians.

As an exclusive gift for fans, on these shows Rick will be premiering a brand new piece of music: Yessonata, a 30- minute instrumental work featuring YES themes and melodies, woven into sonata form.

Rick first started establishing a reputation as one of rock’s most original and proficient keyboard players in the late Sixties, when he worked with the likes of David Bowie, Cat Stevens, Marc Bolan, Lou Reed, Al Stewart, Elton John and other artists too numerous to mention, as a much-in-demand session player. He stepped out of the recording studio and into the limelight when he first joined the Strawbs and then YES, helping to make the latter the most successful progressive rock band in the world by contributing to seminal albums such as Fragile and Close To The Edge.

But outside of YES, Rick was really able to unleash his creativity with a series of groundbreaking concept albums: The Six Wives of Henry VIII, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, and The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, which have been performed in large-scale shows featuring bands, orchestras and choirs.

However, he is equally at home as a solo artist in up close environment of concert halls, performing music on a piano – both his own and tunes that have a special resonance for him - and recounting wickedly funny stories taken from the length of his career. In recent years, he has added a rack of electric keyboards to ring the changes and enable him to enlarge his live solo repertoire.

Now, for the last time in 2024, Rick will be taking to the road in the US with an all-new solo piano and keyboard show, featuring the premiere of a stunning new work. Don’t miss this final opportunity to enjoy an evening of great music and hilarious stories, delivered by one of the truly legendary figures of rock music.

A STATEMENT FROM RICK:

“I always planned to stop touring by my 77th birthday - for those of you who wish to send me a card, it’s May 18th! - but there is so much to fit in before then that I’m having to make plans now and so my final one-man shows will have to cease by that date.

I have thoroughly enjoyed performing the various one-man shows, but it’s time to call it a day. I intend to throw in the best of what I have done in the past, plus a few new surprises on the way, and possibly even the odd guest joining me on the odd occasion.

The plan is not to perform at the same venue twice throughout this period, so whatever venue you are hopefully thinking of coming to, it will be the last performance there - and I am taking this opportunity of thanking everyone and anyone who has supported me over the last 53 years!”

After this initial string of dates, Rick will be taking the tour to South America in April, but will return to North America for the second leg later in the year.

2024 US Tour (First Leg)

• 3.19 Ridgefield Playhouse (Ridgefield, CT): On Sale Now

• 3.20 Wellmont Theatre (Montclair, NJ): On Sale Fri 1.26

• 3.22 Paramount Theater (Huntington, NY): On Sale Fri 1.26

• 3.23 Scottish Rite Auditorium (Collingswood, NJ): On Sale Now

• 3.24 Tupelo Music Hall (Derry, NH): On Sale Now

• 3.26 The Vogel @ Count Basie Center for the Arts (Red Bank,
NJ): On Sale Fri 1.26 10am

• 3.27 & 3.28 The Barns (Vienna, VA): On Sale Now

• 3.29 Egg - Hart Theatre (Albany, NY): On Sale Fri 1.26

For tickets and more information, visit:
RWCC.com

Rick Wakeman YouTube page can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/@RickWakemanOfficial

Eleanor Rigby

Space Oddity

California Thrash Band TAKE OFFENSE Signs With MRNK Heavy

January 22, 2024

MNRK Heavy announces the addition of California crossover thrash band TAKE OFFENSE to its roster. The band is prepping its new studio album, due this spring. Moreover, Take Offense has announced a national tour with new labelmates Escuela Grind. The tour kicks off this week, on January 24th in San Diego, CA, and wraps up on February 17th in Boston, Massachusetts.

Scott Givens, MNRK's SVP of Rock & Metal, says, "All of us at MNRK Heavy are fans of Take Offense, so when the opportunity to add them to the roster came along, it was a no-brainer. The band has made an amazing record, and I can't wait to share it with their fans."

Take Offense's guitarist Greg Cerwonka," says, “We’re really excited to bring in the new year with MNRK and to be included in such an awesome roster of artists. So far, working with MNRK has been great, and knowing we have a team that truly supports us is a great feeling, especially since this new record marks a new chapter for Take Offense. And honestly, we’re just pumped to be on the same label as Ace. KISS ARMY FOR LIFE!”

Vocalist Anthony Herrera adds, "We couldn’t be happier than to work with a label like MNRK. So far it’s been an experience that has allowed Take Offense to be Take Offense. That type of treatment can be difficult to come by these days. We look forward to what the future holds for us on this new ride, along with MNRK & all the great artists on the label.”

Complete Tour Dates:

1/24 San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick
1/25 Santa Ana, CA – La Santa
1/26 Los Angeles, CA – The Paramount
1/27 Fresno, CA – Full Circle
1/28 Oakland, CA – 9 Lives
1/29 Eugene, OR – John Henry’s
1/30 Portland, OR – Twilight
2/1 Seattle, WA – Vera Project
2/2 Boise, ID – The Shredder
2/3 Salt Lake City, UT – Salt City Seamers
2/4 Denver, CO – Moe’s
2/5 Omaha, NE – Reverb Lounge
2/6 Sioux Falls, SD – Remedy
2/7 Des Moines, IA – Lefty’s Live
2/8 Chicago, IL – Reggies
2/9 Detroit, MI – Sanctuary
2/10 Indianapolis, IN – Atomic Bowling
2/11 Columbus, OH – Ace Of Cups
2/12 Cleveland, OH – No Class
2/13 Pittsburgh, PA – The Shred Shed
2/14 York, PA – Skid Row Garage
2/15 Philadelphia, PA – Kung Fu Necktie
2/16 Brooklyn, NY – TV Eye
2/17 Boston, MA – Sonia

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Anthony Green Touring This March + April

January 22, 2024

Singer Anthony Green, frontman for Circa Survive, Saosin, and L.S. Dunes, has announced his Winter/Spring 2024 headline tour plans.

He will hit the road on March 4 in Buffalo on a trek that runs through April 10 in San Francisco, playing intimate venues and further connecting with his legion of dedicated fans.

All dates are below. Get tickets here. VIP packages are available here.

Queen of Jeans will be performing as a duo and will support through March 24. When the tour picks back up on April 1, Kayleigh Goldsworthy will appear.

WITH QUEEN OF JEANS:
3/4 Buffalo, NY — Mohawk
3/5 Baltimore, MD — Metro Gallery
3/6 Somerville, MA — Arts of the Armory
3/8 Richmond, VA — Canal Club
3/9 Huntington, NY — Spotlight
3/10 New York, NY — Mercury Lounge
3/12 Philadelphia, PA — World Cafe
3/13 Cleveland, OH — Mahalls
3/15 Detroit, MI — Loving Touch
3/16 Chicago, IL — Cobra Lounge
3/17 St. Louis, MO — Off Broadway
3/19 Nashville, TN — The End
3/20 Atlanta, GA — Masquerade
3/21 Orlando, FL — Conduit
3/22 Tampa, FL — Orpheum
3/23 Augusta, GA — Granstski Records
3/24 Chapel Hill, NC — Local 506

WITH KAYLEIGH GOLDSWORTHY:
4/1 — San Diego, CA — Voodoo Room
4/2 — Anaheim, CA — Parish Room
4/3 — Phoenix, AZ — Nile Cafe
4/5 — Los Angeles, CA — Hotel Cafe
4/6 — Los Angeles, CA — Hotel Cafe
4/8 — Sacramento, CA — Goldfield Midtown
4/10 — San Francisco, CA — Bottom of the Hill

ABOUT ANTHONY GREEN:
A prolific Philadelphia-area born-and-based musician best known for his work as the lead singer of Circa Survive and Saosin, Anthony Green recently released Boom. Done., an extremely personal statement of an album. He started work on the record after leaving rehab in 2020 as a way to cope and find strength. Raw, sometimes heartbreaking but equally hopeful, the album captures his journey to recovery: through his struggles with addiction to the point of losing his life for up to eight minutes, and his diagnosis of bipolar disorder. It's this kind of open and honest dialogue with his fans, via his music, that has made Green one of the most beloved artist's in the rock scene.

Kenny Chesney Reveals...

January 21, 2024

Album Title: BORN
Release Date: March 29

With Fan Response to News of a New Record So Strong
Stadium-Sized Superstar Inspired to Set a Street Date

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – While no one takes their fans more seriously than Kenny Chesney takes No Shoes Nation, the unassuming songwriter/superstar from East Tennessee wasn’t prepared for the response to the news he was finalizing his next project. Having taken his time trying to create a set of songs that distills the essence of who he is, as well as so many of the people who embrace this music, seeing the blogs, social media posts and radio mentions, he figured it was time to get serious.

“You never want to think it’s all about you, or that in this crazy world, it’s all about your music,” cautions the man the Los Angeles Times called “the people’s superstar” about the traps an artist can fall into. “I’m just trying to find songs that continue the story of who we are...how we live, breathe, work, rock, kick back and sometimes get tangled up in feelings that are anything but simple. Then you see people react the way they have to the news, and you go, ‘Well, okay...’

“I’d already decided on the cover because it was something clean and simple and true. It’s the kind of picture that says everything, but leaves plenty of room for everything else. My friend Allister shot it, and it’s just me looking straight into No Shoes Nation. When I saw it, it was really the only choice for this record.”

“As for the title, well, we’re still not quite done deciding what’s going on here, but one thing’s for sure: BORN is absolutely the title track. It’s got a lot of heart, a lot of soul – and it speaks the truth about living, life and what we’re all doing here. Banjo out front, a great big pocket that rocks back and forth, it feels great. But more importantly, it’s a lyric that throws out all the options, never tells you what to do and throws out the one existential truth no matter what you choose: ‘one thing’s for certain, we’ve all been living since the day we were born.’”

With a March 29 street date, BORN offers much of what’s made the 8x Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year the only country artist on Billboard’s Top 10 Touring Acts of the Last 25 Years for the last 15 years. As “Take Her Home,” the lead track, crests the Top 25, there’s plenty more where the song of three moments that define taking a risk and finding a life came from.

“Normally, we wait until it’s all figured out, the T’s are crossed, the I’s are dotted,” Chesney says. “But everything about this record’s been different – from how much time we’ve spent, the different ways we recorded and wrote and found songs – so why not let the fans know as we’re finishing up? We make this music for them, so, here you go. It’s official: BORN, March 29 – and you’ve seen the cover. Now to the final line-up, and maybe getting a couple more out there.”

After his Sun Goes Down 2024 Tour – with 23 stadium plays -- adding an unprecedented third show at Foxborough, Mass.’s Gillette Stadium, Chesney’s gearing up for a year of new music, great shows and big fun across No Shoes Nation, a place where everyone’s a local.

Blake Shelton & Friends to Host 'All for the Hall' in Oklahoma on March 30

January 21, 2024

Five-time CMA Male Vocalist of the Year and Grand Ole Opry star Blake Shelton will host an Oklahoma-sized All for the Hall concert at the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Saturday, March 30. The concert, which will benefit the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum and its education programs, will feature an all-star Okie lineup, including Country Music Hall of Fame member Ronnie Dunn, Tony and Emmy Award-winner Kristin Chenoweth, ACM and CMA nominee Wade Hayes and fan-favorite songwriters/performers The Swon Brothers. More artists will be announced soon.

“I can’t think of a better place than Oklahoma for the next All for the Hall show,” said Shelton. “Oklahoma and country music are synonymous, and members of the Country Music Hall of Fame include some of our most iconic stars, from Ronnie Dunn to Garth, Reba and Vince Gill, to name a few. I’m thrilled to be hosting this show in my home state!”

“It speaks volumes when an artist of Blake Shelton’s stature supports our museum’s educational programs so wholeheartedly and so generously,” said Kyle Young, chief executive officer for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “We’re immensely grateful not only to Blake but also to Ronnie, Kristin, Wade, the Swon Brothers and others for giving their ‘all for the Hall,’ and for helping us continue to educate our many audiences about the enduring cultural value of country music.”

Tickets for the event will go on sale Friday, Jan. 26, and can be purchased via Ticketmaster at blakeshelton.com. This marks the first time an All for the Hall benefit show will take place in the state of Oklahoma. All proceeds from the show will go to the nonprofit museum’s education initiatives, which directly served more than 230,000 people through in-person and virtual programs in 2023. More information is available at countrymusichalloffame.org/learn.

About Blake Shelton:
As the genre’s chief ambassador, Blake Shelton has been delivering country music to a diverse audience for more than 20 years. In that time, he has accumulated an astonishing 28 No. 1 singles, sold nearly 15 million album equivalents, and earned upwards of 11.5 billion global streams. Shelton has received myriad awards, including six ACMs, three AMAs, 10 CMAs, 11 CMTs and more. On sale now, Shelton is back for another round of his “Back to the Honky Tonk” Tour Presented by Kubota, which kicks off in February.

He and Carson Daly have teamed up to executive produce and star in the high-spirited, celebrity game show, Barmageddon. Hosted by Nikki Garcia, the show airs on USA Network, season Two is airing now. The Grand Ole Opry member also remains focused on his Ole Red partnership with Ryman Hospitality, with locations currently in Tishomingo, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Orlando and an exciting new venue in Las Vegas that opens soon. A noted humanitarian, Shelton has helped raise millions of dollars for children’s hospitals, disaster relief organizations, food banks, the OK POP Museum and more in his home state of Oklahoma and beyond.

About All for the Hall:
The All for the Hall campaign began in 2005 when Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill suggested country music artists contribute the proceeds of one annual performance to benefit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Launched in 2007 in New York, the series has alternated between New York and Los Angeles in succeeding years, with Gill and fellow Country Music Hall of Fame member Emmylou Harris as hosts. With Keith Urban, Gill also co-hosts a recurring All for the Hall concert in Nashville at Bridgestone Arena. In September 2021, the museum hosted the first-ever All for the Hall benefit in Dallas, which is set to return to the city in 2024. Funds raised from All for the Hall events support the museum's educational incentives which directly served more than 230,000 people last year. To date, All for the Hall concerts have raised over $6.6 million through 2023.

About the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum:
The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum collects, preserves and interprets country music and its history for the education and entertainment of diverse audiences. In exhibitions, publications, digital media and educational programs, the museum explores the cultural importance and enduring beauty of the art form. The museum is operated by the Country Music Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization chartered by the state of Tennessee in 1964. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and is among the most-visited history museums in the U.S. The Country Music Foundation operates Historic RCA Studio B®, Hatch Show Print® poster shop, the Haley Gallery, CMF Records, the Frist Library and Archive and CMF Press. Museum programs are supported in part by Metropolitan Nashville Arts Commission and Tennessee Arts Commission.

More information about the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is available at www.countrymusichalloffame.org or by calling (615) 416-2001.

NECROPHOBIC Shares Lyric Video for Melodic New Song, “As Stars Collide”

January 21, 2024

Swedish blackened death metal masters NECROPHOBIC are now unveiling their melodic new single, "As Stars Collide." The track can be found along with a cosmic lyric video, which was created by Brendan McGowan, below..

"As Stars Collide" is taken from NECROPHOBIC's upcoming tenth studio album, 'In the Twilight Grey,' which is due on March 15, 2023 via Century Media Records!

Lead guitarist Sebastian Ramstedt says that "As Stars Collide" is “The most important song on the album for me personally. It starts off with the main melody, that was actually something my mother sang to me as a kid in the early 70’s. It is almost like a chant, or a dark lullaby. I wanted to honor her melody, but put it in my own context. I used one of the oldest stories ever told and drew inspiration from 'Innana’s Descent' - the tale where the morning and evening star meet in the underworld to decide whether good or evil should reign. I wanted to create something that stretched beyond the metal barriers.”

'In the Twilight Grey' is now available for pre-orders HERE and can be found in the following formats:

Ltd. Deluxe Gatefold combat green 2LP & LP-Booklet & Poster incl. 2 bonus tracks (1.000x)

Gatefold black LP

Gatefold dark green LP (300x)

Ltd. CD Mediabook (comes with a special, extended booklet and 2 bonus tracks)

Standard CD Jewelcase

Digital album

Enigmatically titled 'In the Twilight Grey,' NECROPHOBIC’s tenth studio album immediately asserts its separation from everything that has gone before. Colder and more biting than recent efforts, the album is full of brutish metal songs, hewn from unnamed obsidian horrors.

NECROPHOBIC has always been a dynamic and daring band. 'In the Twilight Grey' hammers the Swedish blackened death metal masters' boldness home via some of the most hard-hitting and direct songs they have ever recorded. Equally, the new album is home to several songs that push NECROPHOBIC’s music down strange, new avenues. Fueled by the dark side, lead guitarist Sebastian Ramstedt understands the importance of retaining the essence of the band’s early days, even as the means of expression continues to evolve.

Yet again 'In the Twilight Grey' was produced, mixed and mastered by Fredrik Folkare (of death metal icons Unleashed) at Chrome Studios, Stockholm and engineered in close collaboration by Folkare and the band themselves. For the artwork they teamed up with Jens Rydén, another likeminded and highly regarded institution from the Swedish metal scene.

With over thirty years of active, nefarious service under their spikes and bulletbelts, NECROPHOBIC are undisputed legends of the death and black metal scene. Formed in 1989 by drummer Joakim Sterner, the Stockholm blackhearts propagated a singular and fearless vision from the very start.

Eschewing the self-conscious amateurism and primitive sonics that many of their peers held dear, NECROPHOBIC established a bold and vivid identity of their own, conjuring a densely melodic, but endlessly wicked take on macabre extreme metal that countless lesser bands have since emulated.

You can take a deep dive into their history via the rereleases of their entire back catalogue that Century Media Records made available in 2022 HERE.

Line-Up:

Johan Bergebäck - Rhythm guitar

Joakim Sterner - Drums

Sebastian Ramstedt - Lead guitar

Anders Strokirk - Vocals

Tobias Cristiansson - Bass

Cover Artist + Photos: Jens Rydén

Production, Mixing, Mastering: Fredrik Folkare @ Chrome Studios

Engineering: Fredrik Folkare + Necrophobic

Links:

VLTIMAS Bring Righteous Scorn on New Single

January 21, 2024

VLTIMAS are legends of the underworld. Any good Satanist knows to bow down and worship at the horned feet of David Vincent (ex-Morbid Angel), Rune Eriksen (ex-Mayhem) and Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy). Their debut was greeted with a rapturous procession of devil horns. But with their new album, these gods of dark, extreme metal have ascended to truly epic heights.

Today, VLTIMAS are releasing "Scorcher", the album's hellacious second single.

Watch the visualizer below.

EPIC comes out March 15, 2024.

Pre-order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/VLTIMASEPIC

Pre-save: https://orcd.co/vltimasepic

Some metal songs prefer to slowly unfold before blowing out your ear drums. But rest assured, "Scorcher" is not a slow burn. Sure, the guitars lure you in with a smoky seance. Once Rune tightens those chords into icy black tremolo picking though, VLTIMAS take off like a bat out of hell. The amps crank up; Flo fires off blast beats that are hot enough to singe an angel's wings, while David Vincent unleashes a miles-long battle cry.

"Satan laughs as worlds collide!"

His growl is so massive, so heartless, you'd better believe that he's talking about himself.

"'Scorcher' brings to life a fantastic story of the great purge that's coming our way", says Vincent. "Humanity has been sleepwalking toward this reckoning for centuries. There will be no refuge, nor mercy granted".

Visualizer made by Aimed & Framed.

VLTIMAS have been making grand declarations of war for more than 30 years, but the lead single off EPIC isn't just another offering at the altar of madness.

"I spread my misery, biblically evolved", David Vincent sings on "Miserere" in a baritone that's so monstrous it could summon an army of the dead.

The drums speed ahead mercilessly, mowing down all onlookers under a barrage of surgical blast beats, as riffs hail from all directions with enough firepower to shatter bulletproof glass.

Watch the blistering music video: https://youtu.be/AR8LhYBaRfw

Extreme metal powerhouse VLTIMAS (pronounced 'uhl-tuh-mas') assault metaldom once more with their highly-anticipated sophomore album, EPIC, through Season of Mist. Featuring Norwegian guitarist Rune "Blasphemer" Eriksen (ex-Mayhem, RUÏM), American vocalist David Vincent (ex-Morbid Angel), and Canadian drummer Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy), the multinational quintet, rounded out by Dutch bassist Ype TVS (ex-Dodecahedron) and Portuguese guitarist João Duarte (Corpus Christii), continue to venture down their path. Moored by strength and integrity, VLTIMAS fortified their signature with wicked invention, as applauded by Decibel Magazine, BangerTV, Louder, and many others, on their debut, Something Wicked Marches In (2019). Singles "Miserere," "Scorcher," and "Invictus" showcase a band of musicians at the top of their game, united in their pursuit of oneness.

"We wrote every bit of EPIC together at my ranch in Dime Box, Texas," offers Vincent. "The writing sessions were as organic as they could be. There were times when, at the end of the night, Rune would take his guitar and play something ridiculous. Flo would play something even more ridiculous on top of it. I'd say to the guys, 'I need to capture this.' So, the magic [of VLTIMAS] is being in the same room together, discussing, playing, and recording music and everything else we're doing together. We have unbelievable camaraderie."

While the members of VLTIMAS are not atavists, their preferred creative methods are time-tested and battle-hardened. Technology has its place, but the group thrive when they're together, not separated by the world. Eriksen, renowned as a riff innovator, is more effective when he's got a highly capable sideman like Vincent or Mounier, whose drumming in Cryptopsy and his celebrated instructional Extreme Metal Drumming 101 DVD has proven to be a no-limits player, by his side. Whether it's the moody, angular attack of "Miserere," the wicked groove of "Mephisto Manifesto," or the dark fury of "Nature's Fangs," the chemistry and enterprise of VLTIMAS is undeniable.

"The main goal [of VLTIMAS] is to be real," Eriksen reveals. "To channel the very moment, to let true inspiration out. I don't believe I ever set myself a goal on what an album should or needs to sound like before I or we write it because that means I have to compromise during the process. For EPIC, we focused on more direct songs, trimming the fat, as opposed to Something Wicked Marches In, which had a progressive and 'playful' flair."

VLTIMAS was a profane concept—a constellation of riffs against a modest frame—when formed by Eriksen in 2015. After departing Mayhem in 2008 and putting his gothic doom outfit Ava Inferi to rest in 2013, the Norwegian's fingers still itched with infernal fury. VLTIMAS was his vent, and when Mounier and Vincent joined, he finally had the cadre of professionals to make it a reality. Together, they devised complementary schemes and themes rooted in rightness. In a world gone mad, VLTIMAS had a vision. On Something Wicked Marches In, they commanded attention with metaphors about the apocalypse, the ancient goddess Lilith, and truth. Lyrically, EPIC spears into the very nucleus of strength through Vincent's brio of double entendre and clever wordsmithing. The songs are designed to be heard, read, and interpreted—there are no shortcuts.

"Everything we're doing and messaging is about strength and honor," says Vincent. "These are the fundamentals that I incorporate into my life, which I believe in. I want to share with others, hoping they'll incorporate strength and honor into their lives. I wouldn't say I like spelling lyrics out. I use a lot of double meanings on purpose because I want to inspire the listener to think. I'm not a short attention span guy, and I don't appreciate it. EPIC is holistic and meant to be experienced that way."

EPIC was recorded by producer Jaime Gomez Arellano (Paradise Lost, Grave Miasma) with engineer Jonathan Mazzeo (First Fragment, Sickening) at Arda Recorders in Porto, Portugal. VLTIMAS tracked the album throughout May 2023. Arellano also handled the mix and master. Like everything the band does, the main goal was to be honest. The maxim of no sample replacement or re-amping—EPIC was captured on outboard gear—was adhered to and enjoyed by the team. The result is a sonic expression that sounds like nothing else. From the crushing title track to the epic musicality of closer "Spoils of War," EPIC is an absolute beast.

"Stress, long walks, too much alcohol, yet very focused once in the recording mode," Eriksen says of the sessions. "We booked a month, but somehow, that flew by instantly. We worked up until the very end. I even added a few solos at my local Soundscape Studio in Almada, Portugal. Art unfolds, and once you think you are done, there's always another idea popping up."

VLTIMAS brought Italian artist Daniele Valeriani (Mayhem, Unanimated) to visualize EPIC. The aesthetic, as illuminated by music and message, was iconic boldness. The three-eagle head crest with three different crowns, accompanied by transfigured symbols of the Passion and the "impossible triangle," projects effortlessly. In EPIC, the group will dominate. There's no escape from "Miserere," "Mephisto Manifesto," "Scorcher," and "Invictus." Together, they thrust, by resolve and inventiveness, VLTIMAS into the uppermost echelons of extreme metal.

"[EPIC is] old meets contemporary, a symbiosis of all the great things we love about extreme metal," offers Eriksen. "All combined into one album."

"I want to be as emotional and honest [with VLTIMAS]," Vincent adds. "I want to tell stories; I want to have the themes that appeal to me; I want to have some messaging that someone can take away, in this case, strength. EPIC is strength."

Lineup
David Vincent - Vocals
Rune Blasphemer Eriksen - Guitars
Flo Mounier - Drums
Ype TVS - Bass
João Duarte - Guitars

Recording studio
ARDA Recorders

Producer
Jamie Gomez Arellano

Sound engineer
Jonathan Mazzeo

Mixing and mastering engineer
Jaime Gomez Arellano

Mixing and mastering studio
Arda Recorders, Orgone Studio

Cover art
Daniele Valeriani

Additional artwork and layout
Adrien Bousson

Biography
Chris Dick

Pre-save: https://orcd.co/vltimasepic

Pre-order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/VLTIMASEPIC

Links:
Apple Music:https://music.apple.com/us/artist/vltimas/1445457453
Bandcamp:https://vltimas.bandcamp.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/vltimas/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/vltimas/
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0kz64zyv2xtkdhboztpdwa
Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/vltimas?lang=en

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Skull Gold
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Dracula
12" Picture Vinyl