GWAR Celebrates 40th Anniversary with New Multimedia Release 'The Return of Gor Gor' Out July 25th via Pit Records/Z2 Comics

April 15, 2025

Shock rock legends GWAR are back to wreak havoc once again with their new Multimedia Release, 'The Return of Gor Gor,' due on July 25th, 2025, via Pit Records/Z2 Comics. This multi-format assault on the senses includes brand-new studio recordings, ferocious live performances, and an exclusive 32-page comic detailing the epic return of Gor Gor, GWAR’s long-lost, three-ton Tyrannosaurus Rex. This release is a collaboration between GWAR and Z2 Comics, ensuring fans get the ultimate immersive experience.

But where has Gor Gor been all these years? How do you misplace a three-ton Tyrannosaurus Rex? The answer lies in 'The Return of Gor Gor,' a multi-format experience that intertwines music and graphic storytelling. 'The Return of Gor Gor' follows the tale of an orphaned T-Rex cub, lost in a depraved world that is completely alien to him. Will he become an ally of the legendary Scumdogs of the Universe, or will their reunion unleash an apocalyptic battle? Only time will tell.

Kicking off the carnage, GWAR premieres the NSFW video for "Lot Lizard" today. Fans can also stream the track across all digital service providers (DSPs) and pre-order 'The Return of Gor Gor' now at Pit Records (where you can also get a Gor Gor Plush) and

Z2Comics.com.

About the new single, Blothar states:

"'Lot Lizard' is a blistering return to GWAR as a punk metal powerhouse with a sense of humor. What could be more charming than a song about a crack-addicted cross-dressing dinosaur prostitute that shreds weiners at truck stop pickle parks? Nuttin honey. That’s what. The song rocks. Listen ya mooks…"

Watch the NSFW Video for "Lot Lizard" below

'The Return of Gor Gor' features three brand new GWAR songs mixed by Kurt Ballou (Converge, GodCity Studios) and four live tracks captured at The Masquerade in Atlanta, GA during GWAR’s 2024 tour, mixed by Chris Ronan Murphy. All songs were produced by GWAR and mastered by Alan Douches. The release also includes a 32-page comic detailing Gor Gor’s return, which is included with all versions. Vinyl editions boast an animated etching of Gor Gor on Side A, with a Semi-Translucent Etched Deep Purple Vinyl available exclusively at GWAR.net and Semi-Translucent Etched Green vinyl at Z2Comics.com. A Deluxe Hardback edition is also available via Z2Comics.com.

40 years ago, the intergalactic warlords of GWAR emerged from their Antarctic tomb to conquer the Earth with their barbaric blend of metal and mayhem. Over the decades, their monstrous live shows and relentless discography have solidified them as the ultimate overlords of shock rock. Now, with BälSäc, Beefcake, JiZMak, and Blothar joined by the mighty shredder Grodius of the Maximus Clan, GWAR embarks on their latest quest—to reclaim their savage pet, Gor Gor, who mysteriously disappeared following the death of their former frontman, Oderus Urungus.

Blothar comments on 'The Return of Gor Gor':

"The last time I saw Gor Gor he was just a wee fart dragon. He had crawled on the hood of my Kia Soul and was holding on for dear life while I drove to the store to buy Clamato. I bathed him in wiper fluid and used my wipers to knock him off my sweet ride. Next thing I know, he’s a 20-foot tall trans-species prostitute working a pickle park. Apparently, he’s all grown up and looking for revenge. This record chronicles his struggles as a young Dino-American trying to make his way in a cruel world."

Pre-Order 'The Return of Gor Gor' HERE

'The Return of Gor Gor' will be available in the following formats:

=> CD with 32-page comic booklet

=> LP with 32-page comic booklet and etched vinyl

=> Deluxe LP with hardcover 32-page comic and etched vinyl (D2C exclusive)

=> Standalone 32-page comic

GWAR will be on the road all year as part of their 40th Anniversary Celebration, about the excursion, Blothar says:

"This tour is gonna suck. Once again we will be onstage suffering through the attacks of a giant tyrant lizard just so humans can come to the gigs and get shitfaced on White Claws and show us their tits. Please, for the love of all that is holy, show us your tits."

GWAR Live:

*w/ Toxic Holocaust; AEther Realm; Tracheotomy

May 11: Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple

May 15: Daytona Beach, FL - Welcome To Rockville

May 16: Columbia, SC - The Senate*

May 17: Lexington, KY - Manchester Music Hall

May 18: Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metal Fest

May 19: Columbia, MO - The Blue Note*

May 20: Memphis, TN - Minglewood Hall*

May 21: Baton Rouge, LA - Chelsea's Live*

May 22: Austin, TX - RADIO/EAST*

GWAR w/Static-X, Dope & A Killers Confession

May 24: Albuquerque NM - Revel Entertainment Center

May 26: Wichita KS - The Cotilion Ballroom

May 27: Des Moines IA - Val Air Ballroom

May 29: St Louis MO - The Pageant

May 30: Minneapolis MN - The Fillmore Minneapolis

May 31: Davenport IA - Capitol Theatre

Jun 1: Grand Rapids MI - GLC Live at 20 Monroe

Jun 3: Indianapolis IN - Egyptian Room @ Old National Centre

Jun 4: Ft Wayne IN - Clyde Theatre

Jun 5: Wheeling WV - Capitol Theater

Jun 7: Wallingford CT - The Dome at Toyota Oakdale Theater

Jun 8: Buffalo NY - Buffalo Riverworks

Jun 9: Toronto ON - History

Jun 10: Montreal QC - Mtelus

Jun 11: Hampton NH - Hampton Beach Casino

Jun 12: Allentown, PA - Archer Music Hall

Jun 14: Myrtle Beach SC - House Of Blues

Jun 15: Raleigh NC - The Ritz

Jun 17: Kansas City MO - Grinders

Jun 18: Oklahoma City OK - The Criterion

w/ Eyehategod; AEther Realm; Tracheotomy

Jun 20: Pensacola, FL - Vinyl Music Hall

Jun 21: Pelham, TN - The Caverns

Jul 24: Richmond, VA - Allianz Amphitheater

w/Lamb of God, Hatebreed

Oct 5: Sacramento, CA - Aftershock @ Discovery Park

New Jersey artist Greg Amici presents 'I’ll Be Back' single, first offering from 'Tragicomic' album

April 15, 2025

New Jersey-based artist Greg Amici presents his haunting yet driven new single 'I'll Be Back', previewing his forthcoming 'Tragicomic' album, a storied set of 12 songs that blends absurdist-rock, ska, Americana, folk-punk and straight-up classic rock, with a clear-eyed view of the world through Amici’s unique lens. Greg's lyrics often offer an unexpected turn of phrase, delivered with full-throated rock power.

With roots firmly planted in Jersey, his creative journey has taken him from the heart of Manhattan to Los Angeles and back again. In the late '90s, Greg formed Big Honey, a NYC-based band whose rise peaked with an appearance at the CMJ Music Festival but paused indefinitely when a vocal polyp sidelined Greg for years. Despite this setback, he didn't let his distinctive voice and songwriting abilities go to waste, returning to the studio after a 16-year hiatus.

Reuniting with producer James Mastro (The Bongos, Mott the Hoople, Ian Hunter) and engineer / drummer Ray Ketchem (Guided by Voices, Elk City, Gramercy Arms, Luna) at Magic Door Studio in Montclair, the resultant 'Tragicomic' album was mastered by award-winning engineer Greg Calbi (John Lennon, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, Talking Heads, Patti Smith, Tom Petty).

The creative process also involved former Amici bandmates Joe Gentile (Big Honey)and Tommy Aboussleman (Electric TNT), along with special guests Tony Shanahan (Patti Smith Band) and Renee LoBue (Elk City) contributing to the recording. Whether it’s a "serial killer romance" or a biting satire, Greg Amici proves that a Jersey count knows how to count on rock ‘n’ roll.

Greg Amici shares, "About 'I’ll Be Back', yeah, there have been a lot of songs with the same title and, of course, Arnold Schwarzenegger made the words famous, but my work here is uniquely unique. Really, I was pissed off because the girl I was in love with started having sex with a guy I thought was my friend. So, not wanting to expose myself, I pretended that I was Ulysses returning to my home to annihilate all of Penelope’s suitors. A song was born. It was quite cathartic and probably kept me out of jail."

Calling himself a "count in name only", tracing his aristocratic lineage through Italian family names such as Benedetti, Stalute and Scala, Greg found his calling as a musician in high school, inspired by local bands. Picking up the guitar in his late teens, he founded his first band, The Clergy, and later teamed up with a musical partner to form the '80s alt-rock band Junk.

As of April 15, 'I'll Be Back is available from fine online music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. The full 'Tragicomic' album will be released on June 13 via Magic Door Records. Amici will be supporting this album with a series of live performances, to be announced soon.

Dreamgaze artist Dotsun Moon shares 'Bring Love' & 'Give Up The Tears', heralding third album

April 15, 2025

Upstate New York-based artist Dotsun Moon has announced their forthcoming third album 'Tiger', sharing the video for the invigorating 'Bring Love' and penetrating 'Give Up The Tears', two choice offerings from an album that is, both in spirit and sound, influenced by M83’s epic 'Before The Dawn Heals Us' and New Order's 'Ceremony' and 'Temptation' phases.

Revolving around the musings of Richard Flierl and based in Buffalo, Dotsun Moon has gone through several incarnations since releasing their debut album 4 A.M. back in 2011, but the trajectory remains steadfast on a path of dreamy rock offerings over the years, with multi-instrumentalist Flierl also gradually assuming vocal duties.

"The song 'Bring Love' is about accepting a breakup and hoping someday for a reconciliation. This song would fit right in at the end of a number of John Hughes films. The guitar riff plays along with angelic synths as I sing the line “see it [love] all around,” a call for love to return in any form," says Richard Flierl.

"On the other hand, 'Give Up The Tears' is anthemic hopefulness seeing the best the world has to offer with its opening synth note and Will Sergeant-influenced guitar. This is one of those songs made for sun-setting summer driving with the windows wide open. The drums pound and move the song along in turn increasing the power of the entire song."

Conveying his bold and self-contained vision in every note and vocal line, Dotsun Moon's new album is a complete solo endeavor and a departure from their previous work, which involved female vocals. Evoking both euphoria and a poignant sense of grounding, Dotsun Moon brings you this compelling and unique exploration. Engineered and mastered by Doug White at Watchmen Studios in Lockport, NY, Richard Flierl and Doug White mixed the album on location.

"This is a huge change to prior releases, which have powerful female singers at the center of the songs. On this album, I am on vocals and all the songs are written and played by me from guitars and bass to keyboards, drums and drum programming. Doug White at Watchmen Studios in Lockport, NY brought decades of recording and mixing knowledge to the recordings that allows the songs to truly shine," says Richard Flierl.

"I grew up outside of Buffalo, NY listening to the local college station WBNY and the alternative Toronto station CFNY for music, info and concert announcements. I picked up a guitar in my late teens and wanted to make music under the impression of Pink Floyd and Echo and The Bunnymen. I had no idea there were other bands who made music like they did. Will Sergeant became a hero, watching him and the Bunnymen live as they toured with New Order. Strangely after seeing both bands live, New Order’s Bernard Sumner and Peter Hook became my biggest influences."

Over the years, Dotsun Moon has performed with such notable artists as Mary Ognibene (The Lovely Intangibles) and Buffalo Music Hall of Famer Maria Sebastian, having also played shows with Joywave, Vanishing Kids and The Lost Patrol, not to mention Pride Festival.

'Bring Love' and penetrating 'Give Up The Tears' are out now, available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. Dotsun Moon's next single 'Never Had a Heart' will be released on April 30. The full 'Tiger' album, set for release on June 27, is now available for pre-order.

Eric Church & Chief Cares Break Ground in Avery County, NC

April 14, 2025

Chief Cares, the nonprofit founded by country music star Eric Church and his wife Katherine in 2013, has officially broken ground on its first mid- to long-term housing development to support families displaced by Hurricane Helene. The development, called Blue Haven, is located in Avery County, North Carolina – an area close to Church’s heart and home.

Standing before local leaders, supporters and community members Friday, April 11, Church shared a deeply personal vision for the future. “The land we stand on today sits in the heart of a county that has meant so much to me,” he said. “This is a place my family and I are proud to call home… Mountain people, my people.”

Chief Cares: A Renewed Mission

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of Western North Carolina in September 2024, Chief Cares shifted its mission to address a growing need: keeping people in their communities after disaster strikes. While emergency relief efforts are critical in the immediate aftermath, Chief Cares is focused on what happens next – on providing families with a path to stability, homeownership and dignity.

This effort is being launched under a new initiative called Blueprint for the Blue Ridge, a scalable model for disaster recovery rooted in housing, community and mid- to long-term support.

“We realized that keeping the people in their communities after disaster was a problem with no real solution. We wanted to change that,” Church said. “This is truly a hand up, not a handout. Dignity and community are key to the long-term success of the Blueprint.”

About Blue Haven

Blue Haven will offer roughly 45 homes across a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom floorplans. Chief Cares and its partners are acquiring the land, preparing the infrastructure and building the homes. Selected families’ housing expenses will be financially assisted to allow them to live affordably for up to three years while they rebuild their lives. At the end of that term, families will have the option to purchase their homes – with support from Chief Cares in accessing any available resources.

“The community in this extraordinary setting will provide a shelter of time for its members and owners,” Church said. “We put a house where your home is, so that house can be your home.”

Work is already underway, and families are expected to move in by late summer 2025.

A Scalable Model for the Nation

While Blue Haven is the first, it won’t be the last. Chief Cares has plans to expand into neighboring counties, with the ultimate goal of creating a national model for disaster recovery rooted in permanence, pride and place.

“It is our hope and belief that this will provide guidance and support to other communities facing devastation,” Church said. “A map to a destination of keeping those communities intact.”

For more information, visit ChiefCares.org.

Ian Munsick and Montana Silversmiths Launch Exclusive Jewelry Collection at Boot Barn

April 14, 2025

Wyoming native Ian Munsick has partnered with Montana Silversmiths to launch an exclusive jewelry collection featuring unique pieces that blend traditional Western style with contemporary flair, available exclusively at Boot Barn Nashville stores and BootBarn.com starting on Thursday, April 17, ahead of the release of Munsick’s third studio album Eagle Feather, available Friday, April 18 via Warner Music Nashville.

The collection showcases four standout pieces: the White Buffalo Bolo Tie, Eagle Feather Buckle, Cloudy Mountain Cuff Bracelet, and the Blacktooth Cuff Bracelet. Each item is meticulously crafted to reflect the rugged spirit of the American West and the artistry of Montana Silversmiths, the first installment of a line sure to become a mainstay in country and western fashion.

“Nothing defines the west like those born and raised in it,” shares Munsick. “Its tradition lives through us and its survival depends on us. That’s why this collaboration with Montana Siversmiths is so authentic; we are both western natives. When I see these pieces we’ve created, I’m immediately transported back into the culture that made me who I am.”

To celebrate this exciting launch, Boot Barn will host a special event at their 2nd Avenue store in Nashville on April 17th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, ahead of Munsick’s concert at The Pinnacle that night, celebrating the release of Eagle Feather. Fans and fashion enthusiasts are invited to experience the collection firsthand and enjoy a range of exciting activities, including:

Leather Branding
Happenstance Whiskey Tasting
Ian’s Signature Old Fashioned cocktail – “Fire Water”
Hidden tickets to Ian Munsick’s concert at The Pinnacle later that evening

Ian and Caroline Munsick wearing pieces from the Ian Munsick x Montana Silversmiths Jewelry Collection.
Photos Credit Cam Mackey

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our exclusive Ian Munsick collection in partnership with Boot Barn,” shares Marshall Smith, VP of Marketing, Montana Silversmiths. “This collaboration is a testament to our shared passion for the heritage and artistry of the American West. As Ian continues to push boundaries in both fashion and music, we believe this partnership marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey and very much look forward to bringing this line to the masses.”

With the 2023 release of White Buffalo, Munsick spread the Rocky Mountain gospel with his raw, untamed depiction of the American West and expands on the concepts of the land, people, culture and stories that inspire him with his 20-track follow-up Eagle Feather.

While the white buffalo represents prosperity and rebirth, the eagle feather is inspired by the native symbol representing honor, strength and wisdom, and serves as a continuation of his sophomore project by highlighting Munsick’s personal growth through life experiences and lessons learned that have shaped him into who he is.

Produced by Munsick, Jared Conrad and Jeremy Spillman, Eagle Feather features duets with Lainey Wilson and Flatland Cavalry lead singer Cleto Cordero, with songwriter credits by fellow singer/songwriters Caitlyn Smith and Stephen Wilson Jr., as well as two rare outside cuts in “Drink Around” and “Horses Not Hearts.”

The Ian Munsick x Montana Silversmiths collection, available exclusively at Boot Barn Nashville stores only and on BootBarn.com while supplies last, combines the legacy of Montana Silversmiths with the fresh, contemporary style of Ian Munsick.

Fans and fashion-enthusiasts who can’t get their hands on the collection for this initial launch will look forward to the nationwide launch in July in top Boot Barn stores as well as BootBarn.com, with more exciting events and activations on the horizon.

About Ian Munsick:
A native son of Wyoming, Ian Munsick has accumulated over 900 million global streams across two albums – Coyote Cry and White Buffalo – and a host of accolades, including 19 awards and 14 festival selections for his documentary, White Buffalo: Voices of the West. Having painted a stampeding, spirited portrait of the American West with his sophomore album White Buffalo in 2023, Munsick is expanding on the concepts of the land, people, culture and stories that inspire him, readying the project’s follow-up 20-track album, Eagle Feather, due on April 18, 2025 via Warner Music Nashville. In addition to selling over 100,000 headlining tickets in 2024, Munsick also opened on select dates of Lainey Wilson’s Country’s Cool Again Tour and supported Morgan Wallen on select dates of his record-setting One Night At A Time Tour. Munsick is currently headlining his spring Horses Are Faster Tour. He has been named an “Artist to Watch” by Spotify, CMT, Fender, MusicRow and most recently was named a Martin Showcase Artist. Standout duet “Long Live Cowgirls” (with Cody Johnson) off of White Buffalo 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” and “Horses Are Faster.” 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. Online at IanMunsick.com.

Kenny Chesney's Spherical Premium Seats

April 14, 2025

Kenny Chesney always throws the summer’s hottest show. With all the songs, the friends, the fun, when No Shoes Nation comes together, a party happens – and memories are made. Knowing his residency at Sphere in Las Vegas brings an audience Variety calls, “a concert-going community rivaled perhaps only by Parrotheads and Deadheads” into a whole new dimension of experiencing the songs, the sound and the visuals, the songwriter/superstar wants to offer every possible way to view these landmark shows.

As the final plan for Chesney’s production at Sphere evolves from concept to reality, the opportunity to open-up additional 100 level, reserved seat inventory is now also a reality. These additional tickets will go on sale Tuesday, April 15 at 10 a.m. PT via KennyChesney.com.

“For the fans who want to be close, but maybe aren’t sure they’re ready for the sandbar experience, I get it,” Chesney says. “Normally, it’s three acts, the hot sun and a whole lotta hard plastic flooring, but when you’re being engulfed by this incredible sound and the dynamic visual content, it’s a lot to take in.

“If you’re feeling more like you’re not ready to get in the pit, you want to really absorb all the sensations, I’m really glad the folks at Sphere were able to work with us to make these seats happen. Obviously, we had to wait until everyone knew what our production was going to require; but once we got it all settled, they were very quick to help us create yet another way to come on in and be part of it with us.”

With no tour or traditional shows this summer, high-impact performer Kenny Chesney wanted to make sure No Shoes Nation got the most out of having this other dimension. Being country’s first artist to play Vegas’ groundbreaking Sphere, which literally wraps fans in 4-D technology with the globe shaped building, is a big deal. Between the intense quality of the production, some songs people have never heard and guests, the man the LA Times deemed “the People’s Superstar” didn’t want to lose that direct contact that defines his stadium shows.

“Since we’re not outside, I want everyone to have the best space possible,” he offers. “We’ve got Brandi Cyrus getting people’s party on to start. The band and I haven’t played for No Shoes Nation since those three nights in Boston – and we’re so ready to get out there and rock. To me, these seats give people one more option to make these shows the best ones ever.”

Known for songs that chronicle coming of age in the flyover, Chesney’s treating this residency as a way to celebrate two decades of stadium-sized summers. With his Guitars, Tiki Bars and A Whole Lotta Love fan experience taking over a nearby two-story space at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas as a free way for even non-ticket-holders to experience the ride, including the Spread the Love Bar to grab a drink before the show, he’s creating a space where No Shoes Nation can celebrate all of the moments shared, songs they’ve loved and being together under Sphere’s aesthetic magic.

The only country artist in Billboard’s Top 10 Touring Acts of the Last 25 Years for the last 15, Chesney brings together in community, fun and letting go of what brings you down. With a three hour, no stop Sandbar experience, starting May 22 at Sphere, No Shoes Nation can get their 2025 summer started with 15 singular shows designed to make Chesney’s world without boundaries an even more engaged space.

Limited tickets remain for the Sphere residency at KennyChesney.com with official VIP Concert & Hotel Packages available via Vibee, the official VIP Concert & Hotel Package partner for Kenny Chesney’s Live at Sphere residency, at KennyChesney.Vibee.com. All Vibee packages offer guests a choice of premium tickets including Sandbar (general admission floor) or reserved seating, a collectable laminate and lanyard, access to the No Shoes Island VIP Pool Party, exclusive Kenny Chesney curated gift bag and early access to the Guitars, Tiki Bars and a Whole Lotta Love experience on show days for crowd-free shopping on exclusive merch items, and access to a dedicated shopping lane during public hours. Vibee Hotel Packages include a two-night stay at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (The Venetian or The Palazzo) or Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

Kenny Chesney Live at Sphere in Las Vegas is presented by Blue Chair Bay® Rum.

Kenny Chesney Live at Sphere Las Vegas
Thursday, May 22
Saturday, May 24
Sunday, May 25
Wednesday, May 28
Friday, May 30
Saturday, May 31
Wednesday, June 4
Friday, June 6
Saturday, June 7
Wednesday, June 11
Friday, June 13
Saturday, June 14
Wednesday, June 18
Friday, June 20
Saturday, June 21

Adam Ezra Group NEW Music Out Now!!

April 14, 2025

Adam Ezra Group’s latest single, Mama Luna, is now available anywhere you stream music!!

Hollywood Undead Unveil "Hollywood Forever" (Funny Man Remix) Featuring Lefty Gunplay & N8NOFACE

April 14, 2025

Los Angeles, CA — Multi-platinum rap-rock juggernauts Hollywood Undead unleash a brand new take on their hit single "Hollywood Forever" today with an electrifying remix from founding member Funny Man featuring Lefty Gunplay andN8NOFACE. Find the track on streaming platforms HERE and watch the accompanying video created by LA based artist and animator MikeMeds below.

The “Hollywood Forever (Funny Man Remix)” is a gritty, genre-blending rework of the fan-favorite anthem—an unmistakable tribute to Los Angeles, the city firmly rooted in the DNA of all three artists. The track seamlessly blends explosive rap verses that trade off between Funny Man’s laid-back swagger, Lefty Gunplay’s raw charisma, and N8NOFACE’s signature punk-meets-rap delivery, building in intensity before culminating in the original track’s epic chorus.

Speaking on his remix of “Hollywood Forever”, Hollywood Undead’s Funny Man shares

“For the first time in Hollywood Undead history we have 3 Mexicans on one track with the homies Lefty Gunplay, N8NOFACE, and myself Big Funny Man who are all holding it down for LA and will continue to do so. Thanks to those legends for helping to show love and gratitude to the Undead fans.”

N8NOFACE comments

“Soon as I heard the track and idea I wanted to rock it. Perfect genre killer joint and blends of styles,”

With Lefty Gunplay adding

“THIS ONE RIGHT HERE IS FOR THE CULTURE. 2025 JAY Z VS LINKIN PARK!”

Originally released in October 2024 via Sumerian Records, “Hollywood Forever” has racked up over 19.5 million cross-platform streams, peaked at #18 at Active Rock radio (currently holding at #20), and generated over 35.6k Shazams. The track is a testament (both lyrically and statistically) to the uniquely powerful bond Hollywood Undead share with their fans and the phenomenal staying power of a band who have been releasing albums since 2008.

The remix lands as Hollywood Undead continue their monumental Hollywood & N9ne Return Tour, co-headlining with Tech N9ne and performing to thousands each night alongside special guests Set It Off and Zero 9:36. The current leg marks their long-awaited return to Canadian stages for the first time in nearly a decade. The band will also be performing at major US festivals Sonic Temple, Welcome To Rockville, Louder Than Life and Aftershock.

ABOUT HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD

Since the release of their RIAA platinum-certified 2008 debut Swan Songs, Hollywood Undead’s distinctive and infectious music has incited a global cult audience, sold out shows across continents, and earned praise from Consequence of Sound, Billboard, Revolver and more. With over 3.2 billion cross-platform streams, over 1 billion YouTube views, and 4.1 million monthly Spotify listeners, they remain one of modern rock’s most influential and enduring forces. Now signed to Sumerian Records, they continue to push boundaries and reshape alternative culture.

Hollywood Undead Are:

Johnny 3 Tears, J-Dog, Charlie Scene, Funny Man, Danny.

Find Hollywood Undead Online

Spotify | Apple Music

ABOUT LEFTY GUNPLAY

Lefty Gunplay sheds light on another path. He knows how easy it is to link up with the wrong crowd, get into trouble, and wind up behind bars—especially in a neighborhood like Baldwin Park where he grew up in Los Angeles. He’s living proof that your environment doesn’t have to define you. In less than a year, he returned home from prison and launched his rap career into the stratosphere. He broke through with prolific musical output, intense live shows, and a guest spot on Kendrick Lamar’s blockbuster GNX. Entangled in the streets, he spent a total of 19 years of his life in prison. However, he made a decision to change once and for all in 2024. He turned heads with “Blvd Babies” and dropped his first tape Rookie of the Year. He picked up the pace with Famous Gangbanger and Pre-Season in addition to collaborating withJeremih and OHGEESY. He popped off with Most Valuable Gangbanger, including “What The West Bout” [feat. Snoop Dogg]. Lamar also handpicked him for “tv off,” which exploded to the tune of 455 million Spotify streams, captured #2 on the Billboard Hot 100, and went platinum. During 2025, Santa Fe Klan tapped Lefty Gunplay for “Lumbre” and welcomed him to perform live during Calibash. Now, he continues to push forward on his album, Can’t Get Right [EMPIRE], and more to come. Full bio HERE

ABOUT N8NOFACE

A self-described “Cholo goth father,” N8NOFACE has carved his own lane in the underground with a fierce blend of synth-punk, hip hop, and industrial no wave. Born in Tucson and based in Los Angeles, his prolific output and raw energy have earned him cult status and a growing audience of genre-agnostic listeners. N8’s latest LP Bound to Let You Down continues his streak of uncompromising releases that reflect real-life struggle and creative rebellion. Full bio HERE

Arsenic Kitchen Commences Recording of Upcoming Album in Nashville

April 14, 2025

ARSENIC KITCHEN,

a band originating from Phoenix, Arizona, has

relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, to record their upcoming full-length album in

preparation for their future touring schedule. The recording of the upcoming album will conclude at the end of April.

Known for their musical fusion of early 2000s Alternative and modern Post Hardcore,

ARSENIC KITCHEN'S sound incorporates elements of both nostalgic angst and

contemporary energy, often expressed through emotionally charged lyrics and theatrical

stage presence. The band has acknowledged Asking Alexandria and Set Off as musical

influences.

The currently untitled project is being recorded at the renowned Blackbird Studios in

Nashville. Lead singer Lucas Fulmer has utilized social media platforms to express

gratitude to the band's supporters and has indicated that the recording process will be

documented online. In a statement released in April, the band confirmed that the project

is being independently funded and that they currently have no major label affiliations.

The forthcoming release is a concept album that will be accompanied by a feature film,

with segments released in conjunction with the thematic elements of each track.

Representatives for ARSENIC KITCHEN anticipate the completion of recording sessions by the end of April 2025. This timeframe aligns with the band's plans for touring activities

scheduled for the remainder of 2025. An official release date for the album has not yet

been announced.

INFAMOUS STIFFS Track "Evel Mann" Heard in Jason Statham Film A Working Man. Release the Single and Video "Loose Screws"

April 14, 2025

OAKLAND, CA - Southern California punk rockers INFAMOUS STIFFS have released the next single "Loose Screwz" from their upcoming six song EP titled “The Ornery Six. The band had this to say about the new single, "There is a lot of craziness here in America and you get ripped here and torn there. Mix that up in a song with a touch of optimism sprinkled in and you have “Loose Screwz”."

Watch the video for "Loose Screwz" below:

Stream or purchase "Loose Screwz": https://orcd.co/loose-screwz

INFAMOUS STIFFS are also excited to announce that the third single from “The Ornery Six” entitled “Evel Mann” is featured in the new film “A Working Man” starring Jason Statham”. The movie was released in theatres March 28th. Pre-save for the single starts May 23rd and the release date is June 6th. Watch the promo video for "A Working Man": https://youtube.com/shorts/n6ttT-VLg-M?si=FFBcj5RE3WMTjt1c

Infamous Stiffs came onto the scene in 2019, just before the world shutdown. Hailing from Southern California cities, the members have spent decades playing punk rock ‘n’ roll in various incarnations... all roads leading to the sonic condition that is Infamous Stiffs. A relentless assault of loud infectious hooks and grooves, that’ll make you shout & shake and make ya move your hips with an uncanny swing!

Band Members:
Vocals - Scott Wilkins (Verbal Abuse, Electric Frankenstein)

Guitar - Mark Pananides (Junkyard)

Bass - Troy Takaki (Boneless Ones)

Drums - David Bach (House of Wheels, Adam Sandler's band and a current member of The Avengers)

Production Details
Engineered, mixed and produced by David Irish at Pot of Gold Studios

https://www.infamousstiffs.com

https://linktr.ee/Infamous_Stiffs

https://www.facebook.com/infamousstiffs/

https://www.instagram.com/infamousstiffs

https://youtube.com/@infamousstiffs3385

https://www.bandsintown.com/a/15468330

https://www.tiktok.com/@infamous_stiffs

https://infamousstiffs.bandcamp.com/

Out Friday - Exterminatus - Echoes From A Distant Star Part 1

April 14, 2025

Formed in the depths of Vancouver, Canada, in 2013, the death metal colossus EXTERMINATUS is poised to unleash their third studio assault, Echoes From A Distant Star Part 1, on April 18, 2025. The album is a culmination of over a decade of relentless crafting and intense recording sessions, symbolizing the band's evolution into a formidable force within the metal scene.

The narrative of Echoes From A Distant Star Part 1 unfolds across its tracks, each serving as a chapter in a grand cosmic saga that explores the origins of the universe and the haunting truths hidden within its expansive reach. The journey begins with the turbulent force of "Cosmic Disturbance" and traverses through a series of dark revelations, culminating in an unexpected twist with a metal rendition of "Rock Me Amadeus."

Drawing inspiration from the cosmic and dystopian visions found in the works of Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, as well as the expansive narratives of "Stargate SG:1" and the "Mass Effect" series, the album offers a profound exploration of existence through its lyrical and musical depth. Songs like "Primordial Sea" and "Starbound" feature brutal drum patterns and shredding riffs, echoing the thematic and sonic complexity that EXTERMINATUS is known for.

The formidable lineup delivering this sonic onslaught includes Max Sepulveda on drums, Tabreez Azad wielding guitar and vocals, Elia Baghdaniyan on guitar, Luka Bresan as the lead vocal force, and Lucas Abreu anchoring the low end on bass. The band themselves drove the production, with recording, mixing, and mastering helmed by Max Sepulveda and Zack Ohren at The Beat Lab, ensuring every note conveys the intended ferocity. The album's striking visuals were crafted by Mark Cooper, encapsulating the album's thematic essence.

Key tracks like "Cosmic Disturbance" come alive with an accompanying music video, while "The Signal" and "Primordial Sea" are depicted through haunting lyric videos, offering a window into the album’s dark narrative.

Echoes From A Distant Star Part 1 marks a pivotal chapter for EXTERMINATUS, as they delve into the abyssal depths of death metal, challenging the boundaries of the genre with philosophical narratives and thunderous compositions.

About EXTERMINATUS:

Since their formation in 2013, EXTERMINATUS has evolved into a dominant force within the technical death metal scene. Their journey began with the debut album Veni Vidi Vici, which immediately set the tone for their aggressive style characterized by rapid-fire riffs, relentless drumming, and devastating vocals. By the time their second album Laniakea was released in 2018, EXTERMINATUS had firmly established themselves not just as a project but as a mainstay, pushing the boundaries of technical death metal.

The current lineup features the dual-guitar attack of Tabreez Azad and Elia Baghbaniyan, combined with the unstoppable rhythm section of Max Sepulveda and Lucas Abreu, and the ferocious lead vocals of Luka Bresan. This potent combination creates a sound that is both brutally precise and expansively atmospheric, drawing comparisons to luminaries like Aeon, Decapitated, and The Faceless, yet with a distinct identity that is entirely their own.

Thematically, EXTERMINATUS ventures into the cosmic unknown, exploring vast astronomical themes and the fundamental forces of the universe. Their narratives delve into complex physical phenomena and the chilling mysteries of space, a theme that resonates deeply in their upcoming release, Echoes From A Distant Star Part 1, scheduled for release on April 18, 2025. This album promises to fuse their signature technical complexity with a hauntingly eerie cosmic atmosphere.

EXTERMINATUS's impact on the scene is underscored by their dynamic live performances, highlighted by appearances at festivals such as Armstrong Metalfest and Loud As Hell Festival. Collaborations with notable figures like Andrew Baena, Dean Lamb, and Mike Greenwood have further solidified their reputation, expanding their influence and showcasing their ability to innovate within the genre.

With their intricate compositions, powerful performances, and forward-thinking approach, EXTERMINATUS not only captivates their audience but also promises a continual evolution. As they prepare to release Echoes From A Distant Star Part 1, they stand at the forefront of technical death metal, ready to explore new sonic territories and deepen their exploration of the cosmos.

EXTERMINATUS is:

Tabreez Azad – Guitar/Vocals
Elia Baghbaniyan – Guitar
Luka Bresan – Lead Vocals
Max Sepulveda – Drums
Lucas Abreu – Bass

Album Credits:

Producer: EXTERMINATUS
Recording Studio: The Beat Lab
Engineer: Max Sepulveda
Mastering: Zack Ohren
Mixing: Max Sepulveda
Album Cover Artist: Mark Cooper
Album Formats: Digital and CD

Connect With EXTERMINATUS:

Bandcamp: exterminatus.bandcamp.com
Facebook: facebook.com/exterminatus
Instagram: instagram.com/exterminatusband
YouTube: youtube.com/@ExterminatusBand
Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/6K0rn6eXWhYNjO5QvpY6Wb
Apple Music: music.apple.com/us/artist/exterminatus/1412280668

New England Metal & Hardcore Festival Returns September 20, 2025 — Lorna Shore to Headline Stacked Lineup

April 14, 2025

New England Metal & Hardcore Festival returns on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at The Palladium Outdoors in Worcester, MA.

Launched in 1999, NEMHF became a cornerstone of the metal and hardcore scenes, hosting legends like Megadeth, Lamb Of God, Meshuggah, and more. After a triumphant return in 2023, the festival is set to once again bring the heat with a lineup that includes Lorna Shore as the headliner, alongside Cannibal Corpse, Kublai Khan TX, The Black Dahlia Murder, and a rare, historic final performance from Bury Your Dead featuring their classic lineup, including Matt Bruso, Mark Costello, Brendan "Slim" MacDonald, and Aaron "Bubble" Patrick.

Also on the bill are Drain, Sanguisugabogg, Municipal Waste, Madball, Full of Hell, and more.

"We've done this fest over a bunch of formats through the years — two days, three days, you name it," says co-founder Scott Lee. "This time, it's one day, but we didn't cut corners. This lineup is stacked from top to bottom. We're bringing you the best of the best. All gas, no brakes. Weeeeeee."

LINEUP:
HEADLINER: LORNA SHORE
All Out War
Bayway
Big Ass Truck
Bury Your Dead (Final Show — Classic Lineup)
Cannibal Corpse
Chamber
Despised Icon
Drain
Full of Hell
Gates to Hell
Gideon
Guilt Trip
Hard Target
Kublai Khan TX
Madball
Municipal Waste
PeelingFlesh
Sanguisugabogg
Shadow of Intent
Teeth
The Black Dahlia Murder
Varials
Vomit Forth

Heaven Shall Burn Release "My Revocation of Compliance" Video — WATCH // New Album "Heimat" Out June 27🪽

April 14, 2025

"Heimat" = German for "home + homeland + native land" — a term that merely refers to a relationship between people and spaces but has nevertheless always been highly emotionally charged. Often misused, it sometimes causes discomfort, lively discussions, and battles over interpretation.

Guitarist Maik Weichert comments, "Heimat is not meant as the narrow-minded end point in the sense it has been used by agitators and populists, but the starting point for observations and perspectives. The album is about a much wider sense of the term 'Heimat:' the homelands for many different people and also about the spiritual home, something that shapes and determines our thoughts and actions."

Heaven Shall Burn took their time with the follow-up to Of Truth And Sacrifice, which reached number 1 in the Official German Album Charts in 2020. Heimat was produced at the band's own studio, The Dude Ranch, which is run by guitarist Alexander Dietz. Like in the past, Danish producer Tue Madsen took care of the mixing and mastering.

The Thuringians enlisted the renowned artist Eliran Kantor for the artwork, who previously crafted the artwork for Of Truth And Sacrifice. The centerpiece of the impressive triptych is a rearing stag — in its roaring variant a classic motif of wildlife painting, the epitome of kitsch and trivial art from the 19th and 20th centuries and interpreted by some as a symbol of patriarchy and capitalist competition, but here placed as a vital allegory of resistance amid an apocalyptic scene. He is flanked by a hunting lynx and a watchful owl, which complete the highly symbolic artwork concept as further elements of the triptych.

Watch the video by Thomas Liebchen Below:

As with Of Truth And Sacrifice, Heaven Shall Burn worked with composer, producer and director Sven Helbig and conductor Wilhelm Keitel, this time supported by the Mondëna Quartet and the Ukrainian Sophia Chamber Choir.

Over the last couple of months, Heaven Shall Burn have released two unusual singles, "Keinen Schritt zurück" (Feat. Donots) and "Schweineherbst" (Feat. Dÿse). Today they are pleased to present "My Revocation of Compliance," a typical Heaven Shall Burn song.

"The song reflects our current attitude," Heaven Shall Burn say. "It is time to stop being held back by candy coated speeches. The essential challenge for our generation is to consistently live our own attitudes and convictions and to no longer tolerate the omnipresent ignorance of the pressing problems of our time. Sham discussions, divisive tendencies, and envy debates, in other words everything that is available in the political toolbox of those in power, must not distract us from the real undesirable developments and must be rigorously smashed. We think the iconoclastic symbolism of the video conveys this attitude in a very special way."

Heimat will be released on June 27 by the band's long-standing label partner Century Media Records.

Pre-order the album here.

HEAVEN SHALL BURN ARE:
Marcus Bischoff — Vocals
Maik Weichert — Guitar
Alexander Dietz — Guitar
Eric Bischoff — Bass
Christian Bass — Drums

WITHIN DESTRUCTION Release New Album 'ANIMETAL', Drop Video for New Track "HIDE & SICK

April 12, 2025

Slovenian cyber-metal disruptors Within Destruction have officially unleashed their highly anticipated new album, ANIMETAL today via Sumerian Records. Alongside the release, the band has dropped a brand-new music video for the track “HIDE & SICK,” further pushing their vibrant, hyper-stylized ANIMETAL universe into overdrive.

Listen to ANIMETAL HERE

Watch the video for brand new track “HIDE & SICK” below.

Speaking on today’s release, drummer Luka Vezzosi shares:

“We believe that Animetal is our most authentic release to date—a true fusion of who we are as individuals smashed together into a cohesive, high-energy experience. At its core, the music is still metal, but we’ve pushed the boundaries of borrowing and blending elements from other genres to make things even more dynamic, unpredictable and exciting. We hope listeners can connect with it and enjoy the ride as much as we had while writing it.”

True to its name, ANIMETAL delivers an audio-visual blitz of glitchy brutality, trap-influenced breakdowns, and J-pop-inspired earworms—all wrapped in the band’s signature aesthetic. With each track, Within Destruction expands their genre-defiant sonic palette while maintaining a core heaviness that anchors the chaos.

ANIMETAL features previously released singles including “CYBERGIRL,” “KANASHIBARI,” “DEMON CHILD,” and the emotionally charged “INCOMPLETE.” The album sees Within Destruction continue their streak of evolution, seamlessly weaving in clean vocals, gutturals, electronic and anime inspired flourishes, and a flair for the theatrical.

Stream the album and purchase accompanying merch bundles (including the infamous instant noodles) are available now at https://sumerian.lnk.to/animetal

Within Destruction kicked off their 2025 with a bang. The band hit the road in the US in January for their Super Sugoi Headline dates.They then joined Born of Osiris for their US run. Now, the band are wowing fans across Australia and Asia on their spring tour across both continents to celebrate the release of ‘ANIMETAL.’ Tickets and further information are available HERE.

About Within Destruction

Within Destruction are an innovative metal group from Slovenia. They have been disrupting the deathcore and metalcore scenes since their formation in 2010. Known for their intense sound, the band uniquely incorporates electronic elements and anime samples into their music, adding layers of unpredictability that have captivated fans worldwide. They gained international recognition with their 2016 album 'VOID,' and their irreverent approach to metal, which has built a dedicated global following.

Their third album, 'DEATHWISH,' which was mixed and mastered by Will Putney, further solidified their reputation. Featuring fan-favorite tracks like "Human Defect" and the title track, leading to their first European headliner tour, as well as a breakthrough in the U.S. market. In 2020, they took a bold step with 'YOKAI,' an album that divided fans by blending metalcore with electronic and trap influences, all while integrating anime-inspired themes.

Continuing to push boundaries, the band released 'LOTUS' in 2022, leaning further into metalcore and embracing clean vocals, which sparked both outrage and admiration among listeners. Known for their ambitious live performances and relentless dedication, Within Destruction remains a force in modern metal, constantly evolving and challenging genre norms. With ‘ANIMETAL,’ they’re poised to deliver their boldest statement yet.

Epic Doom/Dark Power Metallers BEHÖLDER Launch New Single "Draconian (Slave Or Master)" + Visualizer

April 12, 2025

Epic Doom/Dark Power Metallers BEHÖLDER are excited to launch their new single, "Draconian (Slave Or Master)," taken from their upcoming debut album 'In The Temple Of The Tyrant,' out on April 25th via Black Lion Records. The new single is accompanied by a visualizer, which is available to view below.

On the new single, BEHÖLDER comments:

"A merciless warlord leads a life of conquest, conducting brutal nighttime raids upon helpless villages, seeking plunder and captives as trophies. The harsh reality that he too is a slave is not lost on him, that his identity and freedom were lost long ago, indoctrinated to serve and even worship his own tyrannical lord. The lines between being either a slave or master in a relentless cycle blur, mixed with the bloodshed and domination that define his existence."

Watch the Visualizer for "Draconian (Slave Or Master)" Below

'In The Temple Of The Tyrant' features 8 tracks of monstrous proportions, a true love letter to epic Doom Metal set within the more shadowy and grim realms of classic Dungeons & Dragons.

Fusing elements of darker power and even traditional Metal, the album lures the listener in with colossal & imposing riffs, haunting, majestic melodies and powerful vocals that range from sinister to grandiose.

Boasting an outstanding world class mix and mastering by Ronnie Björnström of Björnström Ljud & Produktion in Sweden and absolutely stunning artwork from Zsofia Dankova (Powerwolf, Elvenking) that beautifully captures the essence of the music contained within, 'In The Temple Of The Tyrant' has been unleashed upon all who would seek dark tales of adventure filled with – Magic, Mayhem and Riffs Heavier Than A Storm Giant’s Ass!!! ™

Pre-Order 'In The Temple Of The Tyrant' HERE

BEHÖLDER is an Epic Doom/Dark Power Metal band from the US inspired by classic Dungeons & Dragons. Formed in late 2021 by guitarist Carlos Alvarez, the band includes singer John Yelland, guitarist Matt Hodsdon, drummer Andrew Julkowski, and bassist Michael “Oneirous” Sanchez.

Their songs weave cautionary tales from the more grim, foreboding realms of fantasy against a backdrop of colossal riffs with elegant yet powerful melodies. Their debut album 'In The Temple Of The Tyrant' is set for release on April 25th through Black Lion Records as they promise to unleash dark tales of adventure filled with - Magic, Mayhem, and Riffs Heavier Than A Storm Giant’s Ass!!! ™ For fans of Candlemass, Solitude Aeturnus, Sorcerer, Memento Mori.

Epica Release "Aspiral" + Video for "Fight to Survive"

April 12, 2025

Symphonic metal forebears EPICA are thrilled to finally release their brand-new studio album, Aspiral, today. The band invites fans to immerse themselves in the full sonic journey as it is meant to be experienced: from start to finish in one go.

"All of us in the band pushed each other to create the best possible album," Epica share. "We've once again explored new musical and lyrical frontiers, and we hope Aspiral resonates with you as deeply as it does with us. The whole truly is greater than the sum of its parts — this album is meant to be experienced in full."

Stream Aspiral here.

In conjunction with the album release, EPICA have unveiled a sci-fi-themed music video for "Fight to Survive – The Overview Effect." The track draws inspiration from the cognitive shift experienced by astronauts after observing Earth from space — a powerful moment of awe, interconnectedness, and a profound appreciation for the planet’s fragility.

"Musically, this song encapsulates the full spectrum of EPICA," the band explains. "From heavy to soft, uplifting to melancholic — 'Fight to Survive' embodies it all."

The visually striking video was once again brought to life by Remko Tielemans and produced by Kollektiv Kunststoff, who also directed the band's previous singles "Arcana" and "Cross the Divide."

With Aspiral now released, EPICA are ready to bring their new music to life on stage. The band will embark on a North American tour next month, kicking off in the United States and Mexico, followed by a summer filled with major European festival appearances.

Tickets, VIP upgrades, and tour info is available here.

EPICA ON TOUR:
5/6 — New York, NY — Irving Plaza
5/8 — Atlanta, GA — Masquerade
5/10 — Los Angeles, CA — The Bellwether

BATTLE BEAST - NEW ALBUM 'CIRCUS OF DOOM – LIVE IN HELSINKI 2023' OUT NOW

April 12, 2025

With six records since their formation in 2008, four consecutive number #1 albums, and the strongest line-up the Finnish power/symphonic metal group ever had, it’s about time BATTLE BEAST present a proper live album! With 'Eden (Live in Helsinki 2023)' they celebrate the release of Circus Of Doom – Live in Helsinki 2023, a triumphant display of entertaining and monumental heavy rock. The new live album Circus Of Doom - Live In Helsinki 2023 filmed & recorded at Helsinki Ice Hall in front of 3.000 ecstatic fans will be released on April 11th via Nuclear Blast Records. BATTLE BEAST´s european tour starts with a bang on October 17th with their biggest German headline show to date at Hamburg’s Inselpark Arena, the tour will keep the band on the road until mid-December. To complete the bill with melodic metal superiority, DOMINUM will join the tour as their special guest and Sweden’s rising power metal force MAJESTICA as their opening act. All tourdates are listed below.

Noora Louhimo quotes excited: ”It was such a special moment to perform our song ”Eden” - the long time favorite of our fans, in Helsinki Ice Hall. The audience got to be part of the song as the heavenly choir and sang with us the whole time. I still get goosebumps while thinking about it. Go check it out and enjoy!”

Order/Stream Circus Of Doom - Live In Helsinki 2023 here: https://battlebeast.bfan.link/circus-of-doom-live
Watch the new live video for 'Eden (Live In Helsinki 2023)' below:

About BATTLE BEAST:
Close to two decades into their career, with six records, 300M+ streams, four consecutive number #1 albums, and the strongest line-up the Finnish symphonic heavy metal group ever had, it’s about time BATTLE BEAST release a proper live album. Now, Circus Of Doom – Live in Helsinki 2023 finally comes out via Nuclear Blast Records on April 11th, 2025 as digital album and Limited Edition CD plus Blu-ray Digipak.

Offering 117 minutes of playing time, 15 songs, a stunning 24-page booklet showing the band’s impressive stage and performance in a series of photos by Jaakko Manninen, and artwork by Jan Yrlund, Circus Of Doom – Live in Helsinki 2023 is a triumphant testimony to BATTLE BEAST’s one of a kind adventurous and monumental music. Recorded in the Helsinki Ice Hall on January 27, 2023, mixed by the band’s “keytarist” Janne Björkroth and mastered at the legendary Finnvox by Mika Jussila, this massive live package is a highlight for every dedicated fan out there and perfectly captures the ambitious dystopian carnival show BATTLE BEAST put up during their past touring cycle. And rest assured that Noora, Janne, Joona, Juuso, Eero and Pyry are already preparing an even more exciting new chapter for their fantastic tale that will hit you straight to the heart and take you beyond the burning skies.

Maryland-based blackened power metal artist EXILED HOPE is excited to announce the release of Apocrypha,

April 12, 2025

Maryland-based blackened power metal artist EXILED HOPE is excited to announce the release of Apocrypha, the third installment of its ongoing musical narrative. This twelve-track album follows a new protagonist who seeks guidance from familiar (yet otherworldly) forces as he uncovers the truth about the path to success laid out before him, further expanding the story EXILED HOPE has crafted.

“The Summoning” is the track that opens the album, showcasing the struggles and deep battle ahead for the protagonist, setting a preface for the upcoming melodies. “The Day Will Come” and “Blood Of The Ancients” follow suit, melodically taking inspiration from the likes of KAMELOT and NIGHTWISH to add softer tones of suspense. On a lighter note, “Dreamwalker” introduces variety and balances the album’s heavier songs through a two-part ballad, featuring Metal Matt as the first guest appearance in the discography. “Over For You” swiftly transitions into a unique blend of folk and melodic death metal, featuring rapid guitar riffs and empowering lyrics.

“Altar Of Moloch” is the second song with a cameo, Imperator Mortem, and is the “call to action” of this album, giving a sobering to the protagonist for the second half of his treacherous trek. “The Silence Is Deafening” depicts a lovers’ quarrel, with two conflicting perspectives that create a sense of distance, confusion, and resentment—emotions that drive the protagonist through the second phase of their journey. “Behold My Shattered Skies” takes a complete 180 from the overall nature of Apocrypha, embracing a full folk style infused with hints of synth, drawing inspiration from the video game The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt.

The longest track on the record is “Deathslayer”. At 8 minutes and 11 seconds, “Deathslayer” gives contrast to the vocals, with layers of growls and lighter choral layers, and shows the protagonist’s inner power being used to its fullest extent. “Lightborn” is a love letter to the bands that heavily inspired this album. With sweet synths and hard hitting riffs, this song also serves as an inspiration to choose the higher path and recognize one’s worth.

“Remnants” is a strictly instrumental piece of ambience, the calm before the storm that is the finale, “Forbidden Majesties”. “Forbidden Majesties” closes out Apocrypha perfectly, wrapping up the ambience with notes of both heavier and lighter styles, giving the natural conclusion this album deserves.

Sofia, the visionary behind EXILED HOPE, comments on the album “The release of Apocrypha represents 3 years of practice, exploration, trial and error, learning, and a lot of overthinking. I started working on this album in July 2021, then realized that I didn't have the skills I needed to create the music I wanted to create. After I released "Dreamwalker" as a single in April 2022, I took a short hiatus from working on original music to sharpen up my skills, take lessons, and play around with making covers as practice. During this time, I also started law school, which was such a huge time commitment that I didn't touch my guitar for the entire fall semester in 2022. I started working on music again during winter break, since I didn't feel like myself when I completely stepped away from it, and had learned better time management skills at that point. That knowledge resulted in the release of several more singles to generate attention for the album in 2023 and 2024, and I can finally, confidently say that I have a cohesive work that I am proud of, after years of nitpicking it endlessly. The songs each have their own unique character, given the long time span over which I nitpicked and tinkered with them, but they also flow together like chapters in a book or scenes in a movie. That's what I think makes a great album: songs that stand out on their own while carrying the album through their pacing and placement. Apocrypha feels detailed and relatable, yet larger-than-life, and I hope you enjoy the journey of listening to it as much as I enjoyed the journey of creating it. Creating music is about the journey as much as it is about the destination, or the final product.”

About EXILED HOPE:

Multi-instrumentalist Sofia Frasz established EXILED HOPE in 2019, and draws musical inspiration from the likes of AVANTASIA, NIGHTWISH, KAMELOT and CRADLE OF FILTH to name a few. EXILED HOPE’s releases all take place in the same fictional universe and combine to form a dark fantasy metal opera. Each album centers on a character dealing with both an internal and external conflict in this world, and the lyrics explore how they navigate those conflicts. This is intended to provide some kind of escapism through the lyrical world building, while still keeping the songs grounded in real, relatable emotions despite their fantastical setup. EXILED HOPE is working towards the next album, Apocrypha, due to be released April 11th, 2025. Through EXILED HOPE, Sofia has composed music for two short films, Hallowed Paths and What Happens After Midnight, and has collaborated with UK melodeath outfit STEEL FORGE.

EXILED HOPE is:

Sofia Frasz - all instruments and all vocals

FROLIC Announce CD release date for Live Album, Tour Fundraiser

April 12, 2025

On the heels of their explosive live album, LIVE AT THE GREAT AMERICAN MUSIC HALL, young Bay Area Thrash Metal outfit FROLIC have announced that a limited number of CD copies will be available starting April 17, the night the quartet shares the stage with Xoth, Dungeon Crawl and WarTroll at Thee Parkside in San Francisco. Remaining copies of the CD will be available on Frolic's merch store the following day.

Stream or purchase at https://smarturl.it/froliclive

"We are really excited to have these physical copies of our live album. This is the kind of intensity you can expect from us when we hit the road later this summer," said frontman Edgar Sanchez.

"With our second LP almost over the finished line and a tour deep in the planning stages, we're offering some awesome merch as well as some one-of-a-kind items on our store to help us raise funds to keep this train rolling," adds drummer Elijah Post.

The 4-piece's latest recorded offering "Live At the Great American Music Hall" was released digitally on February 7, 2025 to international acclaim--and as a warning shot to all that FROLIC's technical brand of Bay Area Thrash Metal is not to be overlooked.

FROLIC's lineup consists of Edgar Sanchez (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Lenny "Real Steel" Ramirez (Guitar, Backing Vocals), Zak Kufeld (Bass, Backing Vocals), and Elijah Post (Drums).

Formed in 2014, FROLIC has enjoyed a substantial rise in popularity in recent years--sharing the stage with Suicidal Tendancies, Death Angel, Possessed, Forbidden, Biohazard, Eyehategod, DRI, Warbringer, Goatwhore, Angeles Apatrida, Bewitcher, Hatriot, Mordred, Blind Illusion, Hellfire, Defiance and many more.

Band Members:
Edgar Sanchez (Lead Vocals, Guitar)

Lenny "Real Steel" Ramirez (Guitar, Backing Vocals)

Zak Kufeld (Bass, Backing Vocals)

Elijah Post (Drums)

Dinosaur Pile-Up Kick Back Into Action with New Album "I've Felt Better" + Video for New Single "My Way"

April 12, 2025

Struggle. Vulnerability. Pain. Resilience. Love. It's been a hell of a journey that Dinosaur Pile-Up have been on, and they've bravely laid it out bare on their new album I've Felt Better.

Their first record in six years will be released on August 22 via Mascot Records. They will also be hitting the road in the UK in September, calling through Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, Manchester, and London.

It was 2019 when they last toured the UK — on a completely sold-out run — so it's understandable that the band is absolutely buzzing to get back on the stage and in front of their fans and see those beautiful faces once again. "After an extended break away from touring we just can't wait to get back out on the road and play the new songs live," singer/guitarist Matt Bigland says. "We're really stoked on this record and can't wait to see the fans again!"

It's understandable for them to be tightly coiled and ready to go because overcoming life-threatening illness and finding a fresh perspective on life will do that to you. Before they pack back up in their van, they've dropped their new single, which sees them take back control of their future on the raucous "My Way." The incredible video sees the band in various scenarios taking a light stab at the song's meaning — with added aliens.

Watch the video below:

"I wrote 'My Way' because I'm gonna do what I want, how I want, my way," Bigland reflects. "I made peace with the fact that I'm never going to be recognized as 'cool,' and that I will never be in the 'what's hot' of the rock scene, and that my talents as a songwriter will seemingly never be worthy of mainstream acclaim. As a younger artist, that still held some weight or value in my mind. But that's OK. I will do my thing my way because I dig what I do. Doing my thing, my way. I love 'My Way' because it's this crazy mix of an Eminem-type vibe with a big rock song that even has this kind of 'Amish farm breakdown' and a hardcore breakdown in the same song. That sounds fun, right!? Sign me the fuck up!!"

There is a reason that Bigland has reappraised his view on life. He opened up about how his life has changed and what he has been through when the band dropped their recent single, "Bout to Lose It" in March. Five years of pent-up emotion — hope, despair, resignation, and colossal bravery — let loose into a blistering 3:40 minutes of Dinosaur Pile-Up at their absolute best.

When it was released it was met with a wave of support by the likes of BBC Radio 1 Rock Show."It's good to have them back." said Daniel P Carter. Kerrang Radio, Primordial Radio, Kerrang Magazine, NME, Dork and a host of playlisting across Spotify, Apple, Amazon, Deezer and YouTube — the response was "DP-U ARE BACK!"

So much time has passed since their last studio album.

"People need clarity about what happened," Bigland explained. "It's been so cathartic to lay it out." He began documenting his story on the band's Instagram account in December 2024. You can see it in his own words here: Part 1 | Part 2 |Part 3 | Part 4.

There were six people in the ward the second time that Matt Bigland admitted himself to hospital. Three of them didn't make it out alive. "You think you're halfway through life, then you realize you might be right at the end," he says today. "Being in that room was scary. I felt incredibly vulnerable. I had no control. But hearing people in the final hours of their lives forced me to think about what would happen if I were to die. What was I leaving behind? What really mattered while I was here?"

Flash back to 2018.

Ten years of chasing opportunity and betting big, on every chance had built Dinosaur Pile-Up into one of the UK's most beloved alt-rock bands. It had also left them flat broke, physically and mentally drained, and without a label to release their imminent fourth album, Celebrity Mansions. It became their make-or-break record.

Between Matt, bassist Jim Cratchley and drummer Mike Sheils, it was agreed that failure would mean calling it quits.

However, the rock gods were smiling on them, and the album was a hit. On the back of their US Top 5 Rock Radio runaway hit "Back Foot," they went on the road with Shinedown in the U.S. and lined up major summer festival dates, along with a North American tour with The Offspring and Sum 41 in North America through to the end of the year. They were soaring. 2020 was going to be massive — then everything changed.

"I've felt better…" started as a makeshift mantra. Unwilling to sift through the layers of trauma with every friend who checked in to see how he was doing — indeed, often unable to speak through a mouth filled with centimeter-wide sores — Matt found himself defaulting to that wry, understated three-word response. After four years of repetition and rattling around his head, those words are reclaimed as the title to Dinosaur Pile-Up's defiant fifth album: 12 songs to draw a line under a half-decade of sickness and struggle, a distillation of his agonizing uncertainty and self-analysis.

"This record is about triumph over adversity through perseverance and resilience," he explains. "I'm so proud that it actually got made, as its journey was rough, and I'm so proud that it's going to be out there in the world. I think it will serve as an epitaph to an intensely challenging and defining part of my adult life. But I'm just really stoked that I'm on the other side of it, and it's now memorialized in solid rock."

At his worst, he suffered rapid weight loss, internal bleeding, and proliferation of sores in his mouth and over his body, which continued to grow worse. Sections of his tongue were removed for investigation — while he was conscious. Most unnervingly, the doctors seemed to be panicking, unable to stop his throat collapsing in on itself.

"People don't relate things like health crises with being a dude in a band," he stresses the sense of isolation that came with the ordeal. "We're more associated with rocking out and having a great time."

Striking up a relationship online with Karen Dió was a shard of gold in a sea of grey. Her UK visit in October 2020 was one of the few moments of real relief. Maddeningly, Matt's trip to her South American homeland at New Year's 2021 would be cut short: worsening health forcing a return to the UK and setting him on a lonely spiral towards some of the darkest days of his entire life.

In the end, real love shines through. Motivating himself to get out of the hospital, Matt kept a photo of a wedding ring on his phone and promised himself that marrying Karen would be his reward for pulling through. That promise was fulfilled in April 2022, and a thread of romance runs from their partnership through the heart of the record.

Ultimately, this album's seeing the light of day is a huge part of Matt's happily ever after. He's more focused on work, home, and life's simple pleasures than he's ever been. All that has underlined why music matters, which is why the album runs the full gamut of emotions —exhaustion, mental health, empowerment, celebrity, vulnerability, and, at the heart of the album, love.

I've Felt Better will be released on August 22 via Mascot Records and will be available in CD, LP and digital formats. Pre-order info here.