Acclaimed AOR Force THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA Reveal Nostalgic New Single, “Shooting Velvet”

THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA’s new album and Napalm Records debut 'Give Us The Moon' is set for release on January 31, 2025, and today the band offers a first taste of what’s to come with “Shooting Velvet”! The beautifully nostalgic new single arrives with an official music video. Founded in 2007, THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA already have six albums and three Swedish Grammis nominations as well as millions of streams and countless exciting live shows under their belts.

The multifaceted new offering continues THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA’s mission of protecting true AOR and will impress fans and critics alike with its spellbinding storylines, brilliant musicianship and unique sound. To celebrate the album release, THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA will head on a full European tour at the end of January. Make sure to pre-order your copy of 'Give Us The Moon' now and check out the exciting music video for “Shooting Velvet” below!

THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA comments:

“Here’s the first taste of the new TNFO universe that is 'Give Us The Moon'. Let yourself be mesmerized by the pulsating foundation and grandiose chorus of this glittery effort. This song is about keeping the highs, fighting the lows, and never skipping a beat. We shall be watching you from the moon as you lace your shiny shoes. Enjoy ‘Shooting Velvet’!”

Watch the Official Music Video for “Shooting Velvet”

Founded in 2007 by members of high-profile bands such as Soilwork, Arch Enemy, and Mean Streak, over the years THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA have been nominated three times for the Swedish Grammis, gathering millions of streams via their hits. The band has also won over live audiences internationally with their incredibly entertaining performances, including enormous festivals like Wacken Open Air and even opening for Kiss on their very last two shows in Sweden at legendary Dalhalla, as well as several successful European tours and a Latin American tour in summer 2024.

The 13-track album takes the listener on an exciting sonic journey, balancing between uplifting escapism and captivating stories inspired by real-life events. The album's themes span the likes of heroines and temptresses to liberation and romantic nostalgia, set to backdrops of abandoned cities and cosmic tides. The intro track “Final Call” sets the scene for Give Us The Moon before impressive opening track “Stratus”. The intro of “Like The Beating Of A Heart” captures the listener from its first notes, leading into an irresistibly catchy chorus. Massive “Melbourne, May I?” is a classic THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA anthem, featuring captivating solos that are equally prominent on following track “Miraculous”. THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA slows it down for the emotional “Paloma”, before again diving into different soundscapes on the exciting, uplifting “Cosmic Tide”. The title track “Give Us The Moon” builds into a singalong chorus, before the band continues their trademark of name-dropping streets and cities on “A Paris Point Of View”, that features fascinating instrumentation including particularly 80s-inspired keys and groovy bass. Sentimental “Runaways” feels like a part of a movie, only partially because of the attention-grabbing intro track before the first notes. THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA gets the tempo up once more for “Way To Spend The Night” before the epic closing track “Stewardess, Empress, Hot Mess (And The Captain Of Pain)” wraps up THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA’s most cinematic masterpiece so far.

'Give Us The Moon' is free from the limitations of one genre or style, although many of the soundscapes of the album draw inspiration from the 80s, making the album a varied, exciting adventure. The album was produced by THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA and Sebastian Forslund, who also mixed the album, and is mastered by Plec Johansson at award-winning The Panic Room Studios. The galactic artwork was once again created by the talented Giorgia Carteri. Boarding is completed - fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the flight!

THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA about their new album:

“We have never worked harder on an album before and what a journey it’s been. We feel that this album has it all and there’s no way we could have done any better. It’s an explosion of emotions and cinematic landscapes where you’ll be catapulted into space and then land smoothly while feeling right at home. It will be your haven and your grand escape all at once. We hope you will connect to this album with every fiber of your body and mind, just like we do. Please do enjoy 'Give Us The Moon'!”

Pre-Order Your Copy Of 'Give Us The Moon' NOW:

THE NIGHT FLIGHT ORCHESTRA are:

Björn Strid - Vocals

Sharlee D’Angelo - Bass

Jonas Källsbäck - Drums

Sebastian Forslund - Guitar, Percussions

John Lönnmyr - Keys

Rasmus Ehrnborn - Guitar

Anna Brygard - Backing Vocals

Åsa Lundman - Backing Vocals

THE HELLACOPTERS - Reveal Cover And Release Date Of Brand New Studio Album "Overdriver"

Swedish high-energy rock'n'roll pioneers THE HELLACOPTERS have revealed the cover and release date of their brand new studio album Overdriver, which will see the light of day on January 31st, 2025, via Nuclear Blast Records.

Less than three years after their triumphant, chart-storming comeback record, Eyes Of Oblivion, Sweden's most consistently great rock outfit is back with another banger of an album. Overdriver was recorded at Strawberry Studio & The Honk Palace and is the first HELLACOPTERS album entirely produced by Nicke Andersson. As you might expect from a HELLACOPTERS album it's filled to the brim with roaring guitars and earth-shattering grooves, fist-raising energy and anthemic choruses, while keeping the variety richer than ever before. The striking cover for Overdriver was created by German illustrator Max Löffler. More info on pre-order and tracklist will follow very soon!

And since they're also celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2025, THE HELLACOPTERS could have a few more tricks up their sleeves to keep you boys and girls in line, so keep your eyes peeled!

ABOUT THE HELLACOPTERS
Swedish high energy rock and roll band THE HELLACOPTERS released its eighth studio album, Eyes Of Oblivion, on April 1st, 2022. It marked the first full-length since the release of their temporary farewell record Head Off in 2008, which Nuclear Blast Records reissued in October 2024. Eyes Of Oblivion was met with massive acclaim from fans and media alike. Charting #1 in Sweden, #3 in Germany, #6 in Finland, the band celebrated a triumphant return culminating in a show with the mighty Iron Maiden in Gothenburg in July 2022, and apart from their own string of shows, gigs with Ghost in Germany in June 2023. Eager to keep the rock flowing, February 16th, 2024 saw THE HELLACOPTERS release not one, but two stunning versions of their classic Grande Rock album, which was originally released in 1999. Grande Rock Revisited included a remastered original version and a remixed and partially re-recorded version showing how the album could have sounded in a parallel universe with guitarist Dregen being in the band at the time. After making rock grande again, the group set sights on new material, debuting the phenomenal single 'Stay With You'  in May 2024 and releasing it as limited 7inch via Lightning Records. 

THE HELLACOPTERS ONLINE:
https://linktr.ee/thehellacopters

LUCIFER - Release Cover Of Leonard Cohen Song 'Who By Fire' Feat. Bobby Liebling (PENTAGRAM)

Just one week before embarking on the second leg of their 2024 'Satanic Panic' European Tour and right on time for spooky season, heavy occult rock congregation LUCIFER have unveiled a stunning cover version of a song by by the late great Leonard Cohen. 'Who By Fire' features none other than doom metal legend Bobby Liebling of PENTAGRAM as a duet partner for Johanna Platow Andersson. Witness two generations of occult rock and doom metal joining forces for a unique take on this classic tune from 1974.

LISTEN TO 'WHO BY FIRE' (FEAT. BOBBY LIEBLING) BELOW:

Johanna commented:
"Growing up with Leonard Cohen's music, as my mother was a passionate fan, I have always been profoundly touched by his lyrics and of course especially gravitated towards this extremely haunting death theme. Bobby Liebling and I have been talking about collaborating for quite a few years now. When I knew I wanted Lucifer to cover "Who By Fire", Bobby was the perfect one to interpret this very eerie song and I am so glad he said yes. Being a huge Pentagram fan, this is quite something for me! We are extremely pleased how 'Who By Fire' turned into a Lucifer song and Halloween was the perfect occasion to release this morbid work."


LUCIFER will continue their successful 2024 'Satanic Panic' European Tour next week, and once again they're being joined by German rising stars, The Night Eternal. The tour package will be completed by US heavy metal band Tanith, which features Russ Tippins (original guitar player of NWOBHM legends SATAN) on guitar and vocals. You can find all confirmed dates at the bottom. 

ABOUT LUCIFER

Since its inception in 2014 In Berlin, the highly prolific band led by charismatic singer Johanna Platow Andersson has released four electrifying albums on Rise Above (LUCIFER I) and Century Media Records (LUCIFER II-IV), as well as and numerous stand-alone singles infused with 1970s hard rock, proto heavy metal, doom and occult rock, with a nod to their main influences such as Black Sabbath, Pentagram & Blue Öyster Cult. They have played over 250 shows in the Europe, Japan, North & South America, including festivals such as KISS Kruise, Psycho Las Vegas, Hellfest, Wacken and many more, most recently supporting the band GHOST on their European tour in spring 2023. Two of their shows have been recorded and broadcasted by prestigious German national TV program Rockpalast.

LUCIFER, now located in Stockholm, have been nominated for a Swedish Grammy twice, as well as for the Swedish Radio Award P3 and several awards by popular music magazine GAFFA. Amongst others, they have graced the cover of the leading US metal magazine, Decibel, before their first album was even released.

The group has released their critically acclaimed fifth studio album, LUCIFER V, on January 26th 2024 through their new label Nuclear Blast Records.

 Visit LUCIFER at:
www.lucifer.church

Manchester post-punk / death-rock stalwarts Inca Babies unleash 'Ghost Mechanic 9' single

Manchester post-punk death-rock rockers Inca Babies present ‘Ghost Mechanic 9’,the title track and second single from their ninth studio album 'Ghost Mechanic Nine'. A driving blast of a guitar song, this song is a powerful indication of the flavour of the album as a whole, the sound owing more to the Incas' early music as Harry Stafford revisits the raw guitar sounds of their 80s output. Earlier, they released the lead track 'Spacewalk', a timeless Rockabilly groove inspired by Link Wray, Alan Vega and Brian Setzer (but set in a Sci-Fi space opera), together with the B-side 'Monster In The Deep'.

Today, Inca Babies is made up of Harry Stafford (guitar, keys, vocals), Rob Haynes(drums, percussion), Jim Adama (bass) and Kevin G. Davy (trumpet). This will be their first release in three years, following their 2021 album ‘Swamp Street Soul’. Continuing their explosive exploration of goth, punk and death-rock jazz-blues, this album explores the essence of the 80s death-rock vibe, with a tribute to the strong riffing and cool, dead-pan delivery of the dark wave scene at the time. 

With its singular hypnotic bass rhythm, 'Ghost Mechanic 9' could have fit neatly on their 1986 album ‘Opium Den’ . But those days of analogue imprecision are behind us and, with Simon ‘Ding’ Archer (The Fall, PJ Harvey) at the controls, there is still a contemporary zing to the production and a snap to the overall sound. Recorded at 6Db Studios in Salford, Archer and Stafford recorded and mixed this album over two years, with with 'Ding' also contributing serious sonic and dub flourishes. Marco Butcher subsequently mastered this record at his Boombox studio in North Carolina.

This collection of darkly invigorating tunes,album visits a similar place to where Inca Babies started in the 80s with their psychobilly trash rock, reconnecting with their roots, where The Gun Club and The Cramps met, the intersection where Inca Babies found their most passionate and loyal following. This song is a calling card for the album, taking listeners back to a sound that is raw, spiky and reminiscent of their early days in the 80s.  

“This is a surging highway groove that drives us on into the night with a rumbling bass line. Driving for the sake of it; driving to escape. Headlights in the dark: red and blue dash lights; wondering why anyone but you is driving this late. The ghost on the highway, the grease-ball mechanic who says you’ll keep going for miles and miles. And all the numbers are the same. It’s number 9, the ninth album for Inca Babies and he first of nine songs on the album," says Harry Stafford.

Originally comprised of Harry Stafford, Bill Marten, Mike Keeble and Pete Bogg, Inca Babies began in 1983 in the now-legendary deck-access flats of Hulme in Manchester. Intended as executive ‘cities in the sky’, they quickly became cockroach-infested slums inhabited by students, artists and druggies. They released their 1984 debut single 'Interior' on their Black Lagoon label with an unusual sound for Manchester, which was then associated with Joy Division, Buzzcocks, The Fall and The Smiths. With a nod to their influences, Writer CP Lee dubbed them "the Hulme Cramps" for their Gothabilly twang.

A vibrant part of Britain's early postpunk / goth /death rock scene, they amassed a steady following through touring and by releasing a further six singles and four albums over the next five years, all of which entered the UK Indie Charts. They also recorded four sessions for BBC's legendary John Peel show between 1984 and 1988 before calling it quits that year.

Since reforming in 2007, they've released three albums and toured extensively around Europe, Russia, North America, India and beyond. Renewed interest in the Incas was propelled by Cherry Red Records 'Best of’ compilation release ‘Inca Babies 1983-87: Plutonium’. After Bill Marten's death in 2008, the band decided to continue creating music, subsequently releasing their Death Blues Album Trilogy - 'Death Message Blues' (2010), 'Deep Dark Blue' (2012) and 'The Stereo Plan' (2014).

'Ghost Mechanic 9' is available everywhere as of October 30, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. On November 29, the ‘Ghost Mechanic Nine’ album will be released on vinyl and digitally, and can be pre-ordered via Bandcamp and the Louder Than War shop.

CREDITS
Written by Harry Stafford & Rob Haynes
Harry Stafford – vocals, guitars & keyboards
Rob Haynes - drums & percussion
Jim Adama – bass guitar
Kevin G Davy - trumpet, horns
Simon 'Ding' Archer - sonic and dub flourishes
Released by Black Lagoon Records
Catalogue no. BLRLP0060
Recorded, mixed & produced by Simon ‘Ding’ Archer & Harry Stafford
Recorded at 6Db in Salford under Simon ‘Ding’ Archer
Mastered by Marco Butcher at Boombox Studio (North Carolina, USA)
Artwork created by Harry Stafford
Live photos by Simona Masoni
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with Inca Babies
Facebook | Bandcamp | Twitter | Instagram | Soundcoud | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Booking contact | Press contact

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

Cheatham County's Preston James Releases White Trash From Way Back EP on Friday

Twenty-four-year-old singer-songwriter Preston James is releasing his debut EP, White Trash from Way Back, Friday, Nov. 1 on all platforms . With his long hair, blonde scruff and dark eyes, the Cheatham County (Tenn.) native certainly looks the part, but it’s his soulful vocals and the storytelling quality of his lyrics that will convince you to put these tracks on your country/southern rock playlist. 

James, writer or co-writer on all but one track on White Trash—the high-octane, instrument-laden “Heartbreak’s on You” (Go on, break my heart; tear it up like a letter/Put the pieces on the burn pile; it’ll hurt, but I’ll feel better) featuring the song’s writers, Jaren Johnston and John Osborne—has previewed three singles off the EP for fans. In addition to “Heartbreak,” he has released “Fences” (written with Steve Moakler and EP producer Logan Wall), an autobiographical love letter detailing James’s relationship with his fiancée and fellow Season 11 Voice alum Charity Bowden, and his rowdy debut single, “Deal with the Devil,” written with Jason Saenz and Alex Kline. 

“Working with Preston over the course of this EP has been such a creative palate cleanser,” Wall says. “Preston is a massive talent on the rise, and I feel lucky to have been involved from the ground floor. As a producer, my role is always to make sure the artist’s voice is heard and their story is told truthfully.”

New cuts include the bittersweet, acoustic guitar–driven “Take Me Back” (written by James, Wall and Joybeth Taylor) and the solo-written title cut (I’ve never known nothing but them katydids buzzing some sad ol’ mountain sound/And the smell of that rock burning holes through my poor hometown…It’s where I’ll die when I’m old and feeble/I’m getting by fine with my white lightning still/Cause I’m White Trash from Way Back in these Tennessee hills). Every song showcases James’s passion for storytelling as he moves effortlessly from small-town love song to hillbilly headbanger, narrating the goings-on of rural life.

“White Trash from Way Back sums up me,” James says, “where I’m from and the music I love, in about 18 minutes. I hope y’all have as much fun listening as we did making it!” 

After being offered his first publishing deal at 18, James is carving out his place on the Row with this EP, signing with publishers King Pen Music and Warner Chappell Music and inking a booking deal with the Neal Agency, whose artist roster includes hitmakers Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Chase Rice and Riley Green, among others.

Brian Carothers and Evan Kantor, both agents with the Neal Agency, are firmly in James’s corner. “Preston is sitting on an unbelievable debut EP,” Carothers says. “I’ll never forget the day he played it for everyone here. The excitement in the room was special, and we’re all thrilled to be working with him.” Adds Kantor, “From the moment we heard the music, we were all sold on Preston’s talent. What’s been even more exciting is seeing how incredible his live show is. We are honored to be a part of bringing that to the masses.”

Clay Bradley, VP of Creative at BMI, the performance rights agency who represents James, is a longtime supporter. “I love Preston James. He is a natural born guitar picker [James plays electric and acoustic guitar on the EP], songwriter and a rising star in the industry who shows a maturity and insight far beyond his years.”

Kelly King, president of King Pen Music, agrees, saying, “As soon as I met Preston, I knew there was something special about him. His old soul way intrigued me, and his work ethic blew me away right off the bat. Once I saw him play live, I knew he was going to introduce a new edge to country music. I am so excited to see how country music embraces him the way he has embraced it all his life.” Producer Wall adds, “When it comes to White Trash from Way Back, Preston’s voice is loud and clear, and his story is undeniable.”

PHOTO: Annie Loughead

Catch James at one of his upcoming live shows, including his EP release show (feat. Chandler Brown) Friday night at 7 p.m. at The Basement in Nashville. For more info on James, check out his website, prestonjamesmusic.com, and find him on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

Morgan Wallen Foundation & Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation Donate $500k Worth of Instruments To Schools In Touring Cities

For the past two years, Morgan Wallen has donated three dollars from every U.S. ticket sold on his 87-show One Night At A Time World Tour to his non-profit, Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF). Supporting programs for youth in the areas of music and sports, MWF further expanded their local impact during the U.S. tour’s 2024 leg with their “One Instrument At A Time” initiative, in partnership with Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation (MHOF). 
 
MWF committed to donating musical instruments to schools in need across 14 stadium touring cities Wallen visited this year (2024) on his One Night At A Time Tour, including Arlington, Texas; Charlotte, N.C.; Denver, Colo.; East Rutherford, N.J.; Hershey, Pa.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Kansas City, Mo.; Las Vegas, Nev.; Minneapolis, Minn.; Nashville, Tenn.; Oxford, Miss.; Philadelphia, Pa; Tampa, Fla. and Virginia Beach, Va. In total, the value of the instrument donations is $500,000.
 
"When I was a kid, access to music profoundly changed my life and gave me a sense of purpose. I want that for others, and I'm blessed to be able to provide instruments to these schools through my foundation,” shares Wallen. “We really wanted to say a big thank you to these awesome communities that welcome us in and let us play for our fans.” 
 
With a core belief that all children deserve a chance to thrive, play and create through sports and music, the MWF supports programs for youth in these two areas – sports and music. It’s this mission that made the partnership with Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to changing the lives of kids by giving them access to learn and play music in school via the donations of high-quality musical instruments, a natural fit.
 
"Giving back is an integral part of who Morgan is and how he was raised. So launching ‘One Instrument At A Time’ in conjunction with this tour was incredibly important,” adds Kathleen Flaherty, executive director of the Morgan Wallen Foundation. “Partnering with Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation enabled us to utilize their expertise in securing quality instruments and identifying schools in local communities that need them the most. In turn, we hope to impact the lives of kids by giving them access to learn and play music, which is what set the stage for Morgan’s life.”
 
"Music education plays a crucial role in shaping the development of young minds, nurturing their artistic expression, and instilling a lifelong passion for music. We are grateful to the Morgan Wallen Foundation for their dedication to enhancing music education in our schools,” shares Tricia Williams, President and CEO at Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. “Their generosity will make a profound difference in the lives of students, empowering them to unleash their potential and pursue their dreams.”
 
Last month, MWF donated $500,000 to the American Red Cross to aid with efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Helene and $140,000 to Gibbs Youth Sports to coincide with Wallen’s record-breaking homecoming double-header at University of Tennessee Knoxville’s Neyland stadium. In 2023, Wallen’s foundation focused heavily on revitalizing baseball parks in touring cities, with donations to Chicago Cubs Charities, Atlanta Braves Foundation, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville and Boston Red Sox Foundation.

Photo Courtesy of Morgan Wallen Foundation

About Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF)
Access to sports and music transformed and enriched Morgan Wallen’s life in ways he never could have imagined growing up as a kid in East Tennessee. They have been a constant presence since the age of three. Playing sports instilled in him the values and benefits of discipline, hard work and commitment. Exposure to music at a young age has led him to become the country artist he is today. 
 
Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF) has a core belief that all children deserve a chance to thrive, play, and create through sports and music and supports programs for youth in these two areas – sports and music. MWF is also dedicated to being there for communities in times of need. Whether it’s providing supplies in the wake of natural disasters, meals for first responders, distributing groceries to food insecure families, we are there to help.
For more information go to www.morganwallenfoundation.org.
 
About Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation:
The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation keeps music alive in schools across the country by providing vital support services to school districts, and new musical instruments to underfunded music programs nationwide, giving under-represented youth access to the many benefits of music education, leading them to success in school and inspiring creativity and expression through playing music. Since its founding in 1996 the organization has donated more than $33 million worth of instruments to over 1,800 schools. More information is available at Mhopus.org.

Crippled Black Phoenix Rewrite Grim Tale of "444"

Since emerging from the great smog of the United Kingdom, Crippled Black Phoenix have burned like a signal flare against the night, warning weary travelers of the troubles ahead. This year, Justin Greaves (ex Iron Monkey and Electric Wizard), long-time vocalist Belinda Kordic and their many collaborators are celebrating 20 years of end-time ballads with a new, two-part compilation. 

Horrific Honorifics Number Two (2) continues the UK band's tradition of haunting homages with covers that range from Fugazi to NoMeansNo, Deep Purple, Built to Spill and Laura Branigan's Top 10 hit "Self Control". The Wolf Changes Its Fur But Not Its Nature reworks their early signature songs, including the darker, gloomier "Goodnight, Europe (Pt2)".

Today, CBP are releasing a revamped version of "444". Originally released on 2009 standout The Resurrectionists, this dirge quickly became a fan favorite and staple in the band's set list. While faithful to how the song is performed live, this recording includes new lyrics that once again reflect the perils of our times.  

Listen to the new version of "444".

https://youtu.be/Y71jgGtfbq0

The Wolf Changes Its Fur But Not Its Nature and Horrific Honorifics Number Two (2) come out November 29 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/cbpwolf

https://orcd.co/cbphonorifics

CRIPPLED BLACK PHOENIX’s reputation was built on the back of their studio albums and live shows. The pandemic prevented the band from supporting Ellengæst, but it did provide them additional time to bring in new members to their live configuration.

“We’ve done one show since 2019,” says Greaves. “We are going to do something in Europe this year. Hopefully, we can get back on track. We’re also going to do something in the States — that’s not just talk, we’re actually going to do it. It’s well overdue. The live band is fucking amazing. We have the five of us and now we have Jordi [Farré] on drums, Paco [Fleischfresser] on synth and a really good friend of mine, Matt Crawford on bass.

“We did the Leipzig show and even though the rehearsals were better than the show itself, that lineup, our live band, is so good. Because we haven’t been under pressure to put a live band together since 2019 and spent so long talking to people, we’ve got a better band from those results. Out of disaster, we’ve got quite a good, positive thing.”

The Wolf Changes Its Fur But Not Its Nature & Horrific Honorifics Number Two(2) are a double album celebrating the 20 year existence of CRIPPLED BLACK PHOENIX.

Original Credits:
All tracks on Horrific Honorifics Number Two(2) are covers of various artists.

Vengeance
Originally recorded by New Model Army, Written by: Sullivan/Morrow

Self Control
Originally recorded by Laura Branigan, Written by: Giancarlo Bigazzi, Raffaele Riefoli, Steve Piccolo

Blueprint
Originally recorded by Fugazi, Written by: Canty, Lilly, MacKaye, Picciotto

And That’s Sad
Originally recorded by NoMeansNo, Written by: NoMeansNo

Hammer Song
Originally recorded by Sensational Alex Harvey Band, Written by Alex Harvey

When A Blind Man Cries
Originally recorded by Deep Purple, Written by: Gillan, Glover, Blackmore, Lord, Paice

My Pal
Originally recorded by God, Written by: God, Joel Silbersher)

Goin’ Against Your Mind
Originally recorded by Built To Spill, Written by: Doug Martsch, Jim Roth, Brett Nelson, Scott Plouf

Lineup:

Vengeance
Ryan Patterson - Vocals
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars, Backing Vocals
Belinda Kordic - Backing Vocals
Wesley J. Wasly - Bass

Self Control
Belinda Kordic - Vocals
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars
Andy Taylor - Baritone Guitar
Helen Stanley - Synth
Wesley J. Wasley - Bass

Blueprint
Ryan Patterson - Vocals
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars
Helen Stanley - Piano
Wesley J. Wasley - Bass

And That's Sad
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars, Vocals
Wesley Wasley - Bass, Vocals

Hammer Song
Belinda Kordic - Vocals
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars
Andy Taylor - Guitar, Acoustic guitar
Helen Stanley - Synth, Hammond
Wesley J. Wasley - Bass

When A Blind Man Cries
Belinda Kordic - Vocals
Justin Greaves, Drums, Guitars
Andy Taylor - Guitars
Helen Stanley - Piano
Kostas Panagiotou - Hammond
Wesley J. Wasley - Bass

My Pal
Belinda Kordic - Vocals
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars, Backing Vocals
Wesley J. Wasley - Bass

Goin' Against Your Mind
Justin Storms - Vocals
Justin Greaves - Drums, Guitars
Andy Taylor - Guitar
Wesley J. Wasley - Bass

Recorded in 2023 at:
Chapel Studios, Lincolnshire
Engineered by Pieter Rietkerk

Additional Vocal Sessions at:
Kapsylen Studio, Stockholm
Engineered by Jörgen Jugglo Wall.
House Of Foto, Louisville, KY
Engineered by Ryan Patterson

Additional Production Credits:
Mixed by Pieter Rietkerk
Mastered by Magnus Lindberg
Produced by Justin Greaves

Cover Art:
Erebus Art (Thanasis Stratidakis)

Pre-save & Pre-order 'The Wolf Changes Its Fur But Not Its Nature': https://orcd.co/cbpwolf

Pre-save & Pre-order 'Horrific Honorifics Number Two(2)': https://orcd.co/cbphonorifics

Follow Crippled Black Phoenix:
Official Website: https://www.crippledblackphoenix.net/
Bandcamp: https://crippledblackphoenixsom.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CBP444/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbp_444/
Twitter (X): https://x.com/cbp_official/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6WEyPcf9ezhNLm1xOBjbwH
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/crippled-black-phoenix/251718934
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/391823
TIDAL: https://tidal.com/browse/artist/3607159

AVOID Sign to UNFD + Drop "Burn" Video

UNFD is thrilled to welcome AVOID to its roster.

To celebrate the new partnership, the band has shared the video for the new single "BURN." Watch it below. 

It's gnarly AF!

 
"We are so excited to share 'Burn' with the world," says vocalist Benny Scholl. "Personally, I feel like this is a great representation of a more mature version of our sound. We've been hard at work with these new tunes for the past couple of years now, and I couldn't think of a better way to introduce this next era of AVOID than this."

He continues, "'Burn' is a song about the internal battles we face sometimes. I feel like especially as an artist, but really just as people in general we all have our own experiences of facing the highest of highs, and also the lowest of lows, and sometimes I think we all just want to 'set it off, let it all burn' — how about that for a little lyrical callback!! I hope this song can be a positive light for everyone, but especially anyone that might be going through it a little bit right now."

He finishes, "'Burn' is honestly the most excited I've ever been to release a new song. I remember when [guitarist] Chris [Echols] and I were tracking the demo vocals in our tiny little apartment at like 1am annoying all our neighbors and not even remotely caring cause I was so beyond stoked with what we were coming up with. I hope you all enjoy jamming it as much as we did making it."

AVOID ARE:
Benny Scholl — Vocals
Nick Olson — Guitar
Chris Echols — Guitar
Paul Jaton — Drums

Introducing Paradise Slaves (Ex-36 Crazyfists, Diecast) + Band Shares "A Fever to Defeat"

PARADISE SLAVES, a brand new band featuring former members of 36 CRAZYFISTS and DIECAST, are pleased to announce their debut single, "A FEVER TO DEFEAT." Watch the lyric video and listen below. 

The Boston-by-way-of-Anchorage quartet cements an uncanny union between vocal powerhouse Brock Lindow (36 Crazyfists), solo artist and guitarist Tyler Stroetzel, guitarist Jon Kita (Diecast), bassist Brad Horion (Diecast), and drummer Ryan Manning (Pentagram, Blitzkid). 
 
Mutual admiration and respect sparked the initial flame for Paradise Slaves, yet their newly forged friendship lit up their chemistry as brightly as a pyre. That same energy surges through their full-length debut album, due out via Spinefarm in 2025.

Their first single mirrors what brought them together and the one thing that affected us all at the top of this decade.

"It's specifically about COVID," says Lindow. "It was written at the height of the pandemic." 
 
As the story goes, Killswitch Engage guitarist Joel Stroetzel shot a text over to Lindow mid-pandemic. As it turned out, his younger brother Tyler was putting together a solo album, Dark Verses, Vol. 1, and wanted Lindow to sing on a track. Right away, the duo hit it off as collaborators and buddies. 

Following the first song, they continued to write and record. Given his longstanding friendship with Brock, Kita naturally fit in and joined the fold followed by Horion and Manning. Jamming away, they nodded to formative inspirations such as Soundgarden and Alice In Chains twisted up with just the right amount of hardcore grit and heavy metal eloquence. In between, they performed alongside the likes of Killswitch Engage, Fit For An Autopsy, and more. Eventually, the group congregated at Tin Bridge Studios in Massachusetts in order to record.

"This band is something I didn't expect," admits Lindow. "After it fell in my lap, I was making new music with new people and we became brothers, and for that, I'm so grateful. When you get a gift like this, you need to put your best foot forward and have some fire. I definitely still have the same fire and love for making music I always had and it manifests in Paradise Slaves."

“Concert For Carolina” Raises Over $24.5 Million and Counting for Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

“Concert For Carolina,” led by Luke Combs, Eric Church, Billy Strings and James Taylor, has raised $24,513,185 and counting to date for Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Taking place this past Saturday at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium, the record-breaking event welcomed 82,193 in-person attendees and is the largest concert ever for the venue. Additionally, the Veeps livestream garnered 7.1 million total views, which came from across all 50 U.S. states and 30 different countries.
 
With Rolling Stone celebrating the event as “a montage of incredible performances, one-off collaborations, and awe-inspiring selections,” “Concert For Carolina” also featured performances from Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban, Bailey Zimmerman, The Avett Brothers, Scotty McCreery, Chase Rice, Parmalee and Wesko, surprise appearances from Nicole Kidman and Randy Travis and was hosted by ESPN’s Marty Smith and Barstool Sports’ Caleb Pressley. 
 
Even after the show, the “Concert For Carolina” team is still working to raise as much money as possible for hurricane relief efforts including a special silent auction, which is open now. Auction items include the signed guitar and shirt that Combs used during the show, a meet and greet with Church at an upcoming concert, signed NFL, NBA, NCAA and NASCAR gear, signed instruments, a variety of concert and game tickets, a selection of artwork, Yeti coolers and much more. Full details can be found HERE. 
 
All proceeds from the auction, benefit show and livestream will go to the organizations selected by Combs and Church: Samaritan’s Purse, Manna Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC, Eblen Charities and the organizations supported by Chief Cares. 
 
“Concert for Carolina” was made possible due to the support and extreme generosity of David and Nicole Tepper and Tepper Sports & Entertainment, Explore Asheville, Biltmore Estate, T-Mobile, Jack Daniel’s, Whataburger, Miller Lite, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Belk, Lowe’s, Atrium Health, Tractor Supply Company, Bank of America, American Airlines, Food Lion, Duke’s Mayo, GE Aerospace, Harris Teeter, Pinnacle Financial Partners, United Healthcare, Bud Light, Preferred Parking, Gildan and AshBritt.

Photo Credit: David Bergman

NYC chamber punk outfit ECCE SHNAK shares 'Jeremy, Utilitarian Sadboy', first single in 5 years

NYC-based art-rock outfit Ecce Shnak (pronounced Eh-kay sh-knock) presents the single 'Jeremy, Utilitarian Sadboy', dedicated to 19th Century English philosopher Jeremy Bentham, whose skull is kept on display at the University of London. Their fourth release to date and first new music since 2019, they return to once again shatter notions of genre, while addressing weighty themes and notable trivia alike.

This first taste of their 'Shadows Grow Fangs' EP, slated for release in early 2025 via NYC-based imprint Records Man, Records, is astonishing -- Ecce Shnak effortlessly combines math-metal, post-rock and choral anthems in just 150 seconds. Opening with a ferocious roar and a knotty, funk-metal riff, it’s interrupted by bursts of Queen-like harmonies and witchlike wails before punching through to bewitching keyboards and a bridge that would set off a cemetery mosh, only for a stern choral coda to arise like you’re now in a chapel coming around from an inadvertent knockout.

A 5-piece made up ofDavid Roush(vocals, electric guitar/bass),Isabella Komodromos(vocals),Chris Krasnow (electric guitar),Gannon Ferrell(electric guitar/bass),Henry Vaughn(drum kit), Ecce Shnak is one part pop music, another part classical music and a third part punk music, creating songs about love, sex, death, change, bravery, and food.

Since Roush formed the band in the mid-noughties, Ecce Shnak has been treading the high wire, leaping from craft to craft. Throughout their explorations, you’ll always find Roush tripping the light fantastic. Provocative and entertaining in equal, lavish measures, Ecce Shnak's performances are as vividly cartoonish as they are intellectually compelling, defying all earthly expectations.

"'Jeremy, Utilitarian Sadboy' is a prog-punk psychiography of the father of utilitarianism, Jeremy Bentham. Though he was a staunch advocate for basic social services for poor and working people, Bentham was also a tragically confused do-gooder who promoted solitary confinement for prisoners. His single weirdest move was neither good nor bad, but pretty morally neutral: he had his body taxidermied after he died so that his students could muse upon his body as a no-biggie, just a “stale instrument",” says David Roush.  

"The comedic tragedy of Bentham’s life is a fascinating story that raises many complicated questions around happiness, suffering, justice, politics, and the role of mortality in human life. However, in the wake of his confused advocacy for solitary confinement, a more straightforward message emerges in light of the injustices of the modern era. Regardless of any of the good intentions of its architects, our system of incarceration and policing is pointlessly brutal. It needs to be challenged and transformed: for the incarcerated, for undocumented people, for those on death row, and for their loved ones."

An art-rock synthesis of pop music, heavy and classical music, 'Shadows Grow Fangs' EP is a raucous adventure through these styles that concludes with a folk song, a first for the band. Showcasing limitless invention, these five songs run the gamut from slow-burning meditations on love’s indispensability to mockery of the web from the perspective of a time-travelling poet, and much more.

Recorded and produced by Jeff Lucci at the Art Farm (NY), the EP was mixed by Nicholas Vernhes  (Animal Collective, Deerhunter, The Fiery Furnaces, Dirty Projectors, Wild Nothing, The War on Drugs) and mastered by Grammy-winning engineer Greg Calbi (John Lennon, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, Talking Heads, Patti Smith, Tom Petty, Todd Rundgren).

Roush once lived opposite Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary, designed in line with English social reformer Jeremy Bentham’s 1791 circular prism plan. “He said a criminal can redeem himself by contemplation on the crime and restoration in solitude, a really cute, liberal idea that was modified horrifically to the point where we have the brutal practice of solitary confinement," elaborates David Roush, "A friend was working for their ‘Halloween Haunted Prison Experience’, so they were like ‘zombie’ prisoners, which was kind of funny, kind of absurd, but, in another way, horrible when you think about the reality. And I said, ‘Well, shit, I guess I have to write this song.’ So I went to the library, got a bunch of books and read.”

The song’s opening words? “Jeremy! What a show-off!"

Ecce Shnak might seem a frivolous moniker, but a great deal lies behind it. Ask frontman David Roush and, in his gentle, considered manner, he’ll point to the interjection ‘Ecce’ – Latin for “Behold!” – and the slang ‘shnokkered’, meaning ‘incoherently intoxicated’. Coincidentally, the German origin of ‘Roush’, ‘rausch’, also translates as ‘drunkenness’.

If there’s a fine line between wild-eyed, inspired genius and utter, irrepressible insanity, that’s where you’ll find these New Yorkers, teetering on a neon tightrope. They subvert notions of style, playfully but reverently embracing multiple forms from across the spectrum, frequently within a single tune, while addressing weighty themes and notable trivia with striking articulacy.

As of October 30, 'Jeremy, Utilitarian Sadboy' is available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Music written / composed by David Roush
Vocals by David Roush and Isabella Komodromos
Keyboard by David Roush
Electric guitar & bass by Jeff Lucci
Drums by Erik Scattareggia
Recorded and produced by Jeff Lucci at the Art Farm (NY)
Mixed by Nicholas Vernhes
Mastered by Greg Calbi
Video directed by Milton Walker and David Roush
Produced by Beth Narducci and David Roush
Artist photos by Tommy Krause
A&R: Beth Narducci for You + Me Entertainment
Publicity by Shauna McLarnon for Shameless Promotion PR


Keep up with Ecce Shnak
Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube Music | Booking | Press contact

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
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Argentinian-American indie pop duo Aerolinea debuts compelling video for 'What Moves You'

This is the first offering from their 'All We Need' album, an eight-track offering slated for release on November 28, which also sees an appearance by drummer Kellii Scott of Failure elsewhere.

What began in April 2023 with an Instagram message led to a year of long-distance file sharing and meet ups in Florida and Argentina. Thus was born Aerolinea, comprised of Victoria Real and Eric Weissinger. Both are songwriters, vocalists, guitarists and multi-instrumentalists. With Eric in Atlanta and Victoria in Buenos Aries.

What begins with Eastern-influenced vocals at the outset shifts to a more powerful exhibition of Real's vocals, followed by those of Weissinger and then joined in unison. This dreamy track oscillates track between minimalistic pensiveness and intense euphoria for a sonic journey that is worth the flight.

As many recent creative projects, this one came to form during the pandemic, during which time the two artists had both taken part in an online music festival. The spark that led to their collaboration - a quest, you could say, given that both had ongoing in-person musical projects in their respective home cities. After sending some rough song ideas back and forth, they came to the realization that they each nurtured something special in each other, bringing them to new sonic realms worthy of that exploration.

Eric Weissinger shares, "This is our first collection of songs and is a record of how we created music together during our first year, before meeting in person. If it feels mysterious at times, it's because our future was a mystery to us. It was inspired by our separate lives, but also by the potential we had to make music together. We recorded in our homes in Argentina and the U.S. and did final vocals together in Florida. We played all instruments, and the engineering and production was shared via emails, file sharing, phone calls, and texts."

With passionate tandem lyrics, intertwining guitars and rhythms that sometimes groove and sometimes surprise, Aerolinea crafts a sound designed for romantics and misfits, for late nights and strange places.

"This project really allows me to explore my creativity in a completely different context, with challenges and surprises since we two creating together: it’s an amazing experience because we can nourish our musical ideas and new things emerge. Aerolinea itself it feels like following a third force, a muse," says Victoria Real.

Victoria Real honed her musical skills under the tutelage of King Crimson frontman and guitar legend Robert Fripp, first as a Guitar Craft student and later performing with the League of Crafty Guitarists. In addition, she has had a blossoming career as a solo artist, releasing four albums under her name with a fifth album currently in production. For the past few years, she has received accolades at the Cordoba Entertainment Awards (Premios CIEyA), winning the award for “Artist Revelation Rock of the Year” in 2021 and nominated for both “Artist of the Year” and “Rock Artist of the Year” in 2023 and 2024.

Eric Weissinger is most renowned as half of Atlanta-based dream-gaze duo I Am a Rocketship, who have released five albums and an EP. He was also previously bassist for Anne Richmond Boston (DB Recs). As a bassist, guitarist and singer in various project, Eric Weissinger had opened for bands such as The Wedding Present, The Black Crowes, James, Cracker, and Portastatic.

'What Moves You' is is out now, available from fine digital platforms everywhere, including Bandcamp, where the full 'All We Need' album (out November 28) is now available for pre-order via My Long Wknd Records. Aerolinea will be touring Argentina in the new year, kicking off at Buenos Aires' Bar Carnal on January 11.

CREDITS
Music & Lyrics written by Victoria Real & Eric Weissinger
Vocals by Victoria Real & Eric Weissinger
Victoria Real - guitar, synths, bass, and samples
Eric Weissinger - guitar, synths, bass, and samples
Kellii Scott - drums on 'Dreamer'
Recorded & Produced by Victoria Real & Eric Weissinger
Mixed by Eric Weissinger
Cover artwork by Victoria Real & Eric Weissinger
Video directed by Nico Purdía
Video filmed by Mariano Laguzzi
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with Aerolinea
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Threads | Apple Music | Spotify| YouTube Music | Press contact

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

KINGS OF MERCIA Celebrate Album Release with New Video for Title Track

KINGS OF MERCIA releases its sophomore album 'Battle Scars' via Metal Blade Records. To celebrate, they are sharing the title track along with a new video, available below.

Now and again, art offers up the perfect storm. When creative worlds collide with a furious cacophony of power, licks, and lyrics, magic happens. Such is the case with KINGS OF MERCIA, whose second album, 'Battle Scars,' is the continuation of a story as unlikely as it is glorious. The band is helmed by guitarist Jim Matheos (Fates Warning) and singer Steve Overland (FM) who are joined by drummer Simon Phillips (The Who, Toto) and bassist Joey Vera (Armored Saint, Fates Warning).

About 'Battle Scars' Steve Overland shared the following:

"That's about post-war distress syndrome. It's about a guy who comes back from fighting and can't really deal with real life. He realizes that he can never be what he was before he went away and did this. But he really, really wants to, but he's trying to get that across to everybody that loves him. But the problem isn’t him–it's what he's been through. I came up with the title ‘Battle Scars,’ and I think that suggested the subject matter.”

Watch the Music Video for "Battle Scars" Below.

KINGS OF MERCIA's 2022 approachable, world-class self-titled debut was termed “truly a hybrid: it’s heavy, but not metal. It’s got tones of melodic AOR hard rock but with an edge.” Now, 2024 brings the band's sophomore album written and recorded throughout 2023, 'Battle Scars' sees the core writing team of Matheos and Overland expanding on their obvious chemistry.

"I think it was a bit easier this time around because we’ve established a good working rhythm,"states Matheos, "I’ll send Steve at least a few songs every couple of months, and I try to keep them varied. This allows him to work on whichever ones he feels strongly about."

“What Jim sends me is the first draft of that song,” says Overland. “So once he's heard all the melodies and the harmonies I sing, he can chop it about and make it how he thinks it should be. He always sends me three or four different versions. He'll say, ‘What do you think? Which do you like?’ Then we work it out between us and come up with the one we're both happy with.”

“Steve and I started working together in 2021,” says Matheos. “I was aware of FM–they came up around the same time as Fates Warning – but I’d lost touch with them and wasn’t familiar with their more recent work. When Steve was recommended to me, I checked out some of the newer releases and felt Steve was exactly what I was looking for.”

“It's a different genre of music that I'm normally involved in,” says Overland, whose voice has been likened to other British greats Paul Rodgers and Glenn Hughes. “Obviously, I’d heard of Fates Warning – they're a very big cult band in their field. Jim and I touched base, and I told him to send me one backing track. If it sounds great, then it's a win-win. If it doesn't, we'll just call it a day, knock it on the head, not take it any further. That song became ‘Humankind’ from the first album. I wrote the melodies and the title and put it all together. Jim got it and he was blown away. So we made a couple more. I loved doing it. It was just such a different challenge for me.”

Those songs would become the self-titled debut album, which was released in 2022. Written during lockdown, bouncing tracks across the Atlantic, KINGS OF MERCIA found its mojo. Fans of Fates Warning, FM, and Armored Saint all rejoiced at the common ground on KINGS OF MERCIA, the sweet spot in the middle of the Venn diagram.

It’s a true collaboration that has led to KOM's 'Battle Scars.' However, despite the unfolding sound and clear chemistry between the four Kings, Overland has never met his bandmates in person. 'Battle Scars,' like its predecessor, is a slab of transatlantic magic.

Pre-Order 'Battle Scars' HERE

KINGS OF MERCIA are:

Jim Matheos - Guitars

Steve Overland - Vocals

Simon Phillips - Drums

Joey Vera – Bass

Legendary Hard Rockers BONFIRE Return with New Single “I Died Tonight” + Music Video

Today, legendary German hard rockers BONFIRE unveil their new single “I Died Tonight” via Frontiers Music Srl. the track is accompanied by a blazing new video, available below.

Stream or listen to “I Died Tonight” HERE

Bassist Ronnie Parks says about the new track:

“We are excited for the release of 'I Died Tonight.' The chemistry is really flowing, and we feel there will be some great things to come with these new songs. 'I Died Tonight' is a classic melodic AOR style track. We hope people enjoy it as much as we did making it”.

Watch the New Music Video for "I Died Tonight" BELOW

BONFIRE is one of the most seminal German hard rock bands of the past fifty years. Originally founded as Cacumen in 1972 by guitarist Hans Ziller in Ingolstadt, Germany, the group initially played local venues, steadily building a fan base before releasing their first album under the name Cacumen.

In 1986, the band rebranded as BONFIRE, and their debut album as BONFIRE, 'Don't Touch the Light,' marked their international breakthrough. They followed it up with 'Fireworks' in 1987, which further cemented their status in the rock and metal scene. Despite their success, BONFIRE experienced several lineup changes, including the departure of key members. However, Ziller, the band’s driving force, kept BONFIRE alive, continuously adapting to the challenges faced by the group.

In the 1990s, BONFIRE briefly disbanded but returned in 1996, with Ziller reclaiming the rights to the band’s name. Since then, BONFIRE has released numerous albums and maintained a strong presence on the international rock scene. BONFIRE has remained a resilient force in hard rock, continuing to tour and release new material well into the 21st century.

During their most successful phase with album classics such as 'Don’t Touch The Light' (1986), 'Fireworks'(1987) and 'Point Blank' (1989), the group – alongside Scorpions and Accept – counted among the three most popular German acts on a global basis, including triumphal accomplishments throughout Europe and overseas, celebrated tours alongside Judas Priest and ZZ Top, gold records, high chart positions, TV appearances and more than 35 million YouTube views of their hit “You Make Me Feel” alone.

The band’s trademarks continue to be and always have been deeply melodic hard rock songs, driven by captivating guitar parts, grooving rhythms, and haunting vocal melodies. To this day, band founder/guitarist Hans Ziller and his exceptional group regularly awe their fans with new releases and impressive shows.

📸: Leonard Ludwig

BONFIRE are:

Hans Ziller - Guitar

Dyan Mair - Vocals

Frank Pané - Guitar

Ronnie Parkes - Bass

Fabio Alessandrini - Drums

Iodine Recordings to Release Piebald's "We Are the Only Friends We Have"

If you were to look up the word "piebald" in the dictionary, you'd learn that it means "having irregular patches of two colors, typically black and white." 

But if you were to ask any of their loyal fans, they's probably refer to "Piebald" as one of their favorite bands of all time — a hard-to-describe, genre-less, energetic four-piece known for their raw, matter-of-fact lyrics, infectious hooks, fun live shows, and their penchant for doing everything on their own terms.

And this year, Piebald turns 30!

Now on vinyl for the first time in over 20 years, Piebald's We Are The Only Friends We Have has earned its place as one of the most notable and iconic emo albums of the era. It has been completely remastered for vinyl by Jack Shirley (Joyce Manor, Quicksand) with completely reconstructed artwork created from negatives of the original photo shoot, and includes a retrospective essay written by the band. The album was originally produced by Paul Q. Kolderie (Radiohead, Pixies, Dinosaur Jr). 

The re-issue will also have a limited deluxe edition double LP, which includes 12 bonus tracks (B-sides, demos, covers) in an expanded gatefold package. It will also be available digitally on all streaming platforms.

Get the re-release here via Iodine Recordings.

And watch the video for "American Hearts" while you're at it , below.

Piebald were founded in Andover, Massachusetts, in 1994 by Travis Shettel(vocals/guitar/keys) and Aaron Stuart (guitar/vocals). Through Andover High School friends and siblings, Jon Sullivan (drums) and Andrew Bonner (bass) were added to complete the original lineup. In a time before cell phones, Spotify, or even Napster, Piebald became an integral part of the same indie, post-hardcore music scene of the Merrimack Valley that birthed musical monsters Cave-In and Converge.

On February 19, 2002, Piebald released their critically acclaimed third album, We Are the Only Friends We Have. Now joined by Luke Garro on drums, the band embarked on the most thrilling stage of its career. National radio airplay of singles "American Hearts" and "Just a Simple Plan," and tours with the likes of Minus the Bear, Glassjaw, Hey Mercedes, RX Bandits, Saves the Day, and New Found Glory led to more mainstream success and helped birth a cult following.

Piebald became recognized as "one of the most dependably fun bands of the late '90s/early '00s emo touring circuit," and "kings of sing-alongs," led by Shettel, who "crafted lyrics that could weave between intensely autobiographical, sociopolitical, and sarcastic."

The band initially called it quits in 2008, but reformed in 2016 to celebrate the digital re-release of their catalog, and haven't looked back. Since their reformation, Piebald have toured with Dashboard Confessional, The Movielife, and Weakened Friends, reinstated their annual holiday shows, and graced the stages of festivals such as Boston Calling, Riot Fest, Furnace Fest, and Wrecking Ball.

Now, Piebald has teamed up with Iodine Recordings to remaster, repackage, and re-release their long out-of-print catalog, and there has even been talk of new music.

The impact of Piebald on the alternative music scene is undeniable, and their legacy continues to inspire a new generation of musicians and fans.

A toast to 30 years of Piebald!

Killswitch Engage Announce Winter+ Spring 2025 Headline Tour

Three-time Grammy-nominated hard rock heavyweights and platinum-selling band Killswitch Engage — Jesse Leach, vocals; Adam Dutkiewicz, guitar; Joel Stroetzel, guitar; Mike D'Antonio, bass; and Justin Foley, drums — are returning to the road this winter and spring.

Fresh off a 25th anniversary performance headlining the vaunted New England Metal & Hardcore Fest last month, the band will embark on a headline run in March. It's their first tour of North America since late 2022, as the band has been busy working on new material.

The tour features support from Kublai Khan TX, Fit For a King and Frozen Soul, and kicks off on March 5 in Nashville and runs through April 12 in Portland, Maine. All dates are below.

Tickets and VIP packages will be available here.

"Excited is an understatement for the way that I feel about this tour," says Leach. "We will be playing a solid amount of new songs, as well as old. That alone makes me very stoked. On top of all that, the lineup we have chosen is a powerful and eclectic blend of hardcore and metal with Kublai Khan TX, Fit For a King, and Frozen Soul. It is going to make for a really great live experience for everybody who comes to check out this tour. I feel like the band is firing on all cylinders and the timing for this tour couldn't be more perfect. This will be a tour to be remembered...mark my words."

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE ON TOUR:
WITH KUBLAI KHAN TX, FIT FOR A KING, + FROZEN SOUL: 
3/5 — Nashville, TN — The Pinnacle  
3/6 — Chesterfield, MO — The Factory         
3/8 — Fayetteville, AR — JJ's Live       
3/9 — Oklahoma City, OK — The Criterion    
3/11 — El Paso, TX — Don Haskins Center Arena      
3/13 — Las Vegas, NV — The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas      
3/14 — Reno, NV — Grand Theatre at The Grand Sierra Resort        
3/15 — Wheatland, CA — Hard Rock Live      
3/17 — Garden City, ID — Revolution Concert House           
3/18 — Seattle, WA — The Paramount          
3/19 — Vancouver, BC — PNE Forum
3/21 — Penticton, BC — South Okanagan Events Centre      
3/22 — Tsuut'ina, AB — Grey Eagle Resort & Casino       
3/24 — Winnipeg, MB — Burton Cummings Theatre            
3/27 — Peoria, IL — Peoria Civic Center        
3/28 — Waukee, IA— Vibrant Music Hall      
3/29 — La Vista, NE — The Astro       
3/30 — Kansas City, MO — The Midland Theatre
4/1 — Grand Rapids, MI — GLC Live 20 Monroe       
4/3 — Corbin, KY — The Corbin Arena           
4/4 — Pittsburgh, PA  — Stage AE     
4/5 — Philadelphia, PA — Franklin Music Hall           
4/6 — Greensboro, NC — Greensboro Special Events Center           
4/8 — New Haven, CT — College Street Music Hall   
4/9 — Buffalo, NY — Buffalo RiverWorks      
4/11 — Laval, QC —Place Bell
4/12 — Portland, ME  — Cross Insurance Arena        

The band's latest album Atonement is out now via Metal Blade Records.

ABOUT KILLSWITCH ENGAGE:
Killswitch Engage first shook the structure of heavy music upon climbing out of snowy industrialized Western Massachusetts in 2000. A musical outlier, the band pioneered a union of thrashed-out European guitar pyrotechnics, East Coast hardcore spirit, on-stage hijinks, and enlightened lyricism that set the pace for what the turn-of-the-century deemed heavy. 2002's Alive Or Just Breathing became avowed as a definitive album, being named among "The Top 100 Greatest Metal Albums of the Decade" by Decibel and celebrated by everyone from Metal Hammer to Revolver. Not only did they bust open the floodgates for dozens to follow, but they also garnered three GRAMMY® Award nominations in the category of "Best Metal Performance" in 2005, 2014, and 2019, respectively, a gold certification for The End of Heartache [2004], and a platinum certification for As Daylight Dies [2006]. The group landed three consecutive Top 10 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 with Killswitch Engage [2009], Disarm The Descent [2013], and their career high best bow at #6 with Incarnate [2016]. The latter two releases, along with 2019's Atonement, would also both capture #1 on the Top Rock Albums and Top Hard Rock Albums charts. The band's total streams are nearing 3 billion to date, while they've remained consummate road warriors who've sold out countless headline tours and have shared stages with everyone from Iron Maiden to Slipknot to Slayer to My Chemical Romance to Mastodon to Parkway Drive, which is a testament to their ability to cross genres and appeal to all fans of hard rock. KsE have remained a featured attraction at every major North American and European festival through the years. The band is celebrating an astonishing, 25-year career as one of the most vital and genre-defining bands of the '00s and continues its incredible legacy.

The Plot In You Announce Stacked North American Headlining Tour Kicking Off February 14

2025 is shaping up to be a great year for The Plot In You fans! The quartet has today announced their stacked Spring 2025 North American headlining tour coming to a city near you with Holding Absence, Boundaries and Acres as support. VIP, advance tickets and Spotify pre-sales are on now, with promoter pre-sales beginning today at 2 pm ET. Knotfest.com pre-sales begin tomorrow, Wednesday, October 30 at 2 pm ET. Tickets go on sale to the general public this Friday, November 1 at 10 am local time. For more information, please click here.

The band will also be dropping their 'Vol. 3' EP next Friday, November 8 (via Fearless Records), from which have released "Been Here Before" and most recently, "Pretend". The EP's release coincides with the first date of the band's tour with Currents, Zero 9:36 and Wind Walkers. Pre-save 'Vol. 3' at the link here, and be sure to stay tuned for more The Plot In You news coming soon.

The Plot In You North America Spring 2025 Tour with Holding Absence, Boundaries + Acres:

Feb 14 - Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theater

Feb 15 - Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre

Feb 16 - Minneapolis, MN @ Skyway Theater

Feb 18 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Theater

Feb 19 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot

Feb 21 - Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades

Feb 22 - Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues

Feb 23 - Los Angeles, CA @ Fonda Theater

Feb 25 - Tempe, AZ @ The Marquee

Feb 26 - Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater

Feb 28 - San Antonio, TX @ Vibes Event Center

March 1 - Dallas, TX - Studio @ The Factory

March 2 - Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall

March 4 - Nashville, TN @ Cannery Ballroom

March 5 - Atlanta, GA @ The Eastern

March 7 - Columbia, SC @ The Senate

March 8 - Richmond, VA @ The National 

March 9 - Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage

March 11 - Toronto, ON @ The Danforth Music Hall

March 12 - Montreal, QC @ Beanfield Theatre

March 14 - Worcester, MA @ Palladium

March 15 - Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer

March 16 - New York, NY @ Webster Hall

Upcoming Fall 2024 Dates with Currents, Zero 9:36 + Wind Walkers

Nov 8 - Davenport, IA @ Capital Theatre

Nov 9 - Green Bay, WI - Epic Event Center

Nov 10 - Indianapolis, IN @ Delux At Old National Centre

Nov 12 - Des Moines, IA - Val Air Ballroom

Nov 13 - Omaha, NE - The Admiral

Nov 15 - Little Rock, AR - The Hall

Nov 16 - New Orleans, LA - Joy Theatre

Nov 17 - Destin, FL - Club LA

Nov 19 - Knoxville, TN @ The Mill & Mine

Nov 20 - Jacksonville, NC - Hooligans

Nov 21 - Norfolk, VA - The Norva

Nov 23 - Buffalo, NY - Riverworks

Nov 24 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogarts

During 2023, The Plot In You kickstarted a new era with 'Vol. 1' with “Divide”, having generated 19 million Spotify streams and counting followed by “Left Behind”, exploding to the tune of 38.6 million Spotify streams with no signs of slowing down. Upon the arrival of “Forgotten”, Revolver praised it among the “6 Best New Songs Right Now”. The Plot In You's 'Vol. 2' EP is a powerful showcase of the band's evolution, blending raw emotion with polished musicality, and stands as a testament to the band's growth and artistic maturity, captivating listeners with its intense yet introspective narratives with tracks “Closure”, “Don’t Look Away”, and “All That I Can Give” further solidifying their place as one of the genre's most compelling acts.

The band's latest offering "Pretend" speaks to the callous nature of modern society, kicking off with a head-first dive of driving guitar riffs and powerful rhythm. Closely following the dynamic intro, hushed verses of nearly-whispered lyrics laced with ominous electronic tones lull listeners into a sense of precarious safety before a rousing crescendo lifts into the chorus. Crowned with frontman Landon Tewers’ signature vocal control and all-encompassing emotional expression, “Pretend” warns against the present-day tendency to choose false, blissful ignorance over contending with the horrors plaguing the world.

WICKED SET TO UNLEASH NEW SINGLE, "HELLRAISER," ON HALLOWEEN + OPENING SHOW FOR METAL ALLEGIANCE IN JANUARY

WICKED is ready to raise some hell this Halloween with their latest single, "Hellraiser"! Digging into their sleazy, hard rock roots; the single feeds off a dark hard hitting arena vibe laced with punk rock intensity. Twin harmony guitars will put you in a trance for haunting and Chad Michael will command head banging till the bitter end. And catch WICKED emerging from the depths of darkness in the "Hellraiser" music video as they summon red hot rock n roll mischief!   

The pre-save link for the single: https://lnk.to/hellraiserpresave
 
YouTube teaser for the video below.
 
WICKED is extremely honored and excited to be bringing "Hellraiser" and all their high energy rock n' roll to the Anaheim, CA House Of Blues, as they take the stage along the laundry list of legends that make up Metal Allegiance, as well as OTTTO and Lost Legacy on January 23rd. If you haven't seen the WICKED boys live this past spring on their North American Tour with Raven, you won't want to miss this thunderous set of the new wave of hard rock!

House of Blues show tickets: 
https://concerts.livenation.com/jackson-evh-charvel-presents-metal-allegiance-anaheim-california-01-23-2025/event/09006148D4342D9B
 
“We’re bringing all our firepower out for the House of Blues show. Come experience it live and in person!” - Scotty V
 
Comprised of members singer/guitarist Chad Michael, guitarist Scotty V, bassist Danny, and drummer Gunnar, Wicked hails from Rochester, New York, and issued their full-length sophomore album, 'Sunburn' (available on all digital music providers, CD, and vinyl via SBMG Global and The Orchard) on March 1, 2024. 
 
Thus far, several other singles and videos have been issued form the album, including "Gorgeous," "Summer & Sun," "Cali," and "Lost in the Dark." And all of these party metal anthems – and more – will certainly be performed on January 23rd at the House of Blues show!
 
“Guitar driven music has never been so fun! Go crank up “Hellraiser” Turn It Up!” - Chad Michael 
 
 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:
https://linktr.ee/wickedrocknroll
https://www.wickedrocknrollofficial.com

THE HALO EFFECT - unleash stunning video for title track of new album 'March Of The Unheard'

Swedish melodic death metal rising stars THE HALO EFFECT has just dropped the official music video for their powerful new single, 'March Of The Unheard', the title track from their highly anticipated sophomore album, set to be released on January 10th, 2025.

The visually stunning video matches the intensity of the song, blending dark, atmospheric imagery with explosive performance shots, delivering a cinematic experience that complements the band’s signature sound.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting new material from THE HALO EFFECT. The upcoming album March Of The Unheard promises to showcase the band's evolving artistry while staying true to the melodic death metal roots that their fans have come to love.

Guitarist Niclas Engelin comments on the song:”This song is based around the melody theme for the intro on all our ninety-six shows. I just got the idea of starting the whole album with this theme and building a full song around it. Mikael took the whole song to another level with his lyrics, which enlighten the need for our society to hear the voices of the unheard - the powerless."

He continues: "We are all suckers for melancholic melodies in an up tempo beat, and add some harmonies to that, and we get a beautiful Halo song. Working with the mighty Gothenburg Marching band "Göta Lejon" just blew our minds both in the studio and live.. damn they are powerfull!!”

Check out the video for 'March Of The Unheard' below:
Listen to 'March Of The Unheard': https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motusg
Pre-order the album: https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/motulp

Shortly after the album´s release, the band will embark on their first ever headline tour across Europe. Industrial outfit and label mates PAIN will be special guest on this tour and to round up this great package, melo-death shooting stars from Finland, BLOODRED HOURGLASS, will join as support.

THE HALO EFFECT is:
Niclas Engelin | guitar
Jesper Strömblad | guitar
Mikael Stanne | vocals
Peter Iwers | bass
Daniel Svensson | drums

THE HALO EFFECT Online

Scotty McCreery Releases Acoustic Version of Latest Single "Fall of Summer"

On the heels of releasing an official video for his latest single last week, Triple Tigers recording artist Scotty McCreery has released an acoustic version of “Fall of Summer” today. Listen to it HERE, watch the lyric video for the acoustic version below, and watch the recently released official music video directed by Jeff Ray HERE. 
 
“There’s something about the vibe of ‘Fall of Summer’ that lends itself to an acoustic version,” said McCreery. “It brings an even more intimate feel to this wistful look back at a past summer love. Hope everyone enjoys it.”
 
Written by McCreery, Frank Rogers and Brent Anderson and produced by Rogers, Derek Wells, and Aaron Eshuis, “Fall of Summer,” is currently climbing the charts at country radio and was most added in its first week. Filled with mature nostalgia, and built on one of the album’s most modern, cinematic sounds, the mid-tempo and reflective standout finds the country crooner’s vocal at a low simmer, as a guy looks back on a season of life that ultimately faded, but also made room for the here and now.
 
Rise & Fall is McCreery’s most critically acclaimed album to date, with Billboard naming it one of the 50 Best Albums of 2024 (So Far). The album’s first single, “Cab in a Solo,” recently became his sixth No. 1 hit. Listen to the album Rolling Stone says is “every bit as legit as Jamey Johnson’s That Lonesome Song, Garth Brooks’ In Pieces, or Randy Travis’ Storms of Life,” HERE. And check out “Fall of Summer (NC State Version)” recently released due to popular demand, HERE.
 
“Across the 13-track collection, McCreery exhibits his continued growth as a vocalist and songwriter,” notes Holler. Peopleechoes the sentiment, writing that the album “brims with a newfound confidence and maturity,” while Country Now calls it “his best record yet,” and American Songwriter declares it a “career album” as Rise & Fall finds him exploring not only heartbreak but rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood and enduring love, resulting in a project full of insightful storytelling. The album was produced by McCreery’s longtime production team of Frank Rogers, Derek Wells and Aaron Eshuis. 
 
McCreery co-wrote 12 of the 13 songs on the album, which Billboard observes, “Light-hearted fare such as ‘Stuck Behind a Tractor’ and ‘And Countin’’ mesh with heartbreak brushoffs such as ‘Lonely,’ the bluegrass-inflected album-closer ‘Porch’ and the faith-filled ‘Red Letter Blueprint.’” It is available digitally as well as on CD and vinyl. Order autographed vinyl and CDs of Rise & Fall HERE.

The North Carolina native joined Luke Combs, Eric Church, Billy Strings and James Taylor for “Concert for Carolina,” a benefit concert for those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Presented by Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, “Concert for Carolina” will take place at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium and also features performances from Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban, The Avett Brothers, and more. 
 
“I think everyone knows how much I love my home state,” said McCreery. “There are so many great things about North Carolina, but what I love most are the people. I’ve been in some of the affected areas recently and they have been devastated by the hurricane’s destruction. It’s inspiring to see the people pulling together and helping each other, but they need our help to recover and rebuild. I appreciate Luke Combs reaching out and asking me to be part of it. It is my honor to perform on this concert to help the state that I was born in and still live in today.”
 

McCreery was announced as direct support for select dates on the Kane Brown The High Road Tour in Spring 2025 (including Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on April 11, 2025), with tickets on sale now at Ticketmaster. 
 
He was also recently revealed to be a performer at the 2025 Stagecoach Festival on April 27, 2025. Tickets are on sale at StagecoachFestival.com. 
 
Having spent almost half his life in the spotlight making country music, the North Carolina native is in the midst of his headlining Fall of Summer Tour. Named after his current single of the same name, the tour is taking the North Carolina native across the U.S. and Canada with stops in Santa Fe, NM; Bakersfield, CA; Stamford, CT; Windsor, Ontario; Kansas City, MO, Las Vegas, NV, and more. McCreery will also make his long-awaited return to the UK next year, with five headline dates across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 
  
Tickets are on sale now. Purchase at ScottyMcCreery.com.
 
Fall of Summer Tour Dates: 
11/01/24   Scottsdale, AZ               Talking Stick Resort
11/02/24   Las Vegas, NV               The Sandbar at Redrock Casino Resort & Spa
11/07/24   New Brunswick, NJ       State Theatre New Jersey
11/08/24   Stamford, CT                  Palace Theatre
11/09/24   Hampton Beach, NH      Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
11/15/24   Cherokee, NC                 Harrah's Cherokee Casino
11/16/24   Choctaw, MS                  Pearl River Resort
11/21/24   Windsor, ON                   The Colosseum at Caesar’s Windsor
11/22/24   Orillia, ON                      Casino Rama Resort - Entertainment Centre
12/06/24   Kansas City, MO             Ameristar Kansas City Casino
12/07/24   Hinton, OK                      Sugar Creek Casino
 
Kane Brown “The High Road Tour” - Dates with McCreery as Direct Support: 
03/27/25   Winnipeg, MB                 Canada Life Centre
03/29/25   Calgary, AB                     Scotia Saddledome      
03/30/25   Edmonton, AB                 Rogers Place
04/03/25    Quebec City, QC            Videotron Centre
04/04/25    Montreal, QC.                 Bell Ventre
04/05/25   Providence, RI                  Amica Mutual Pavilion 
04/10/25   Evansville, IN                  Ford Center
04/11/25   Nashville, TN.                  Bridgestone Arena
05/01, 25   State College, PA            Bryce Jordan Center
05/02/25    Uncasville, CT                Mohegan Sun Arena
05/03/25    Uncasville, CT                Mohegan Sun Arena     

Earlier this year, McCreery joined Callista Clark on the duet “Gettin’ Old” via Dreamcatcher Artists label (listen HERE). Clark wrote the song with Averie Bielski and Karen Kasowski, while Joey Hyde and Frank Rogers share production credits. Watch the video for the track, directed by award-winning filmmaker Roman White, HERE.
 
About Scotty McCreery:
Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half his life, ever since making history in 2011 as both the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album, the Platinum-certified Clear as Day, at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart. With his latest album Rise & Fall, featuring his sixth No. 1 single "Cab in a Solo," current single "Fall of Summer," and 11 additional tracks, McCreery explores classic themes of heartbreak, rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood, and enduring love, and through it all, felt comfortable being himself, resulting in a project full of electrified twang, rich baritone vocals and insightful storytelling. The 30-year-old has sold more than 4 million albums and achieved 6 No.1 hits: the recent "Cab in a Solo," the RIAA Platinum-certified "Damn Strait," the RIAA Gold certified "You Time," the RIAA Gold certified "In Between," the RIAA Platinum certified "This is It," and the RIAA Triple Platinum certified "Five More Minutes."
 
The North Carolina native has earned one Triple Platinum, five Platinum and four Gold singles; one Platinum and two Gold albums; won the 10th season of “American Idol” in 2011 at age 17; was named the ACM New Artist of the Year in 2011; won two CMT Music Awards, the first for Breakthrough Video of the Year ("The Trouble with Girls") in 2012, and the second for Digital-First Performance of the Year (‘It Matters to Her’ from “CMT Stages”) in 2024; and BMI Awards for writing One of the Top 50 Country Songs of the Year five times (in 2015 for ‘See You Tonight’, in 2018 for "Five More Minutes," in 2019 for "This is It," in 2021 for "In Between," and in 2022 for "You Time"). He was awarded Pandora Billionaire status in 2021 in recognition of his music achieving more than one billion streams on Pandora. His song "Five More Minutes" inspired two popular holiday movies which aired on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Network: Five More Minutes in 2021 and Five More Minutes: Moments Like These in 2022. He released his first book Go Big or Go Home: The Journey Toward the Dream in 2016. Last year McCreery was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Earlier this year, he was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by Josh Turner and Randy Travis, after being invited late last year by Garth Brooks. The singer/songwriter married his high school sweetheart Gabi in 2018, and the couple had their first son Avery in October 2022.
 

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