HOT MILK Share "Insubordinate Ingerland" Off of Album "Corporation P.O.P" Out June 27

HOT MILK have released the rampant "Insubordinate Ingerland," a quintessentially tongue-in-cheek take on the band's home turf, their own accidental football anthem. It might be dressed up as an open-top bus parade, but the song's sarcastic undertone encapsulates the album in a nutshell.

"A necessary excursion that was born quickly and forcibly. We had no choice in this song coming out of us, probably the quickest song we ever wrote lyrically. In modern-day England, it is difficult to know where we stand in a wishy washy world of identity politics. Who are we? Who are they telling us we are? What do we stand for? Why is the poverty gap widening? Why are old people freezing? Why is the NHS in disarray? Is our culture just the pub? But I love the pub? Is that bad? Am I just on the bevs to forget the bollocks outside? I’m so confused. This song is just that, a confused, hyperbolic look and an aggravated poke at ourselves. I'm England til I die… because I have no choice and this place might be the death of me yet," says Han Mee.
 
Jim Shaw continues, "The fun thing about 'Insubordinate Ingerland' is that Han has had that tattooed on her terribly for a number of years as a sort of reflection as to the crumbling state of a nation that tends to do what it wants. For better or for worse. She thought, 'Fuck it, let's turn my stupid stick 'n' poke into a song' and here we are. What's extra fun about this song is that we roped in so many mates to make it… the gang vocals were recorded by Jim in his front room in Salford with all our mates after tea one night. The video was shot in Bolton with our mates as extras and our long-term collaborator and friend Kennedy as director. It looks a lot more expensive than it was…Good lad, Kennedy."

Hot Milk's sophomore album, Corporation P.O.P is set for release on June 27 via Music For Nations.

Pre-order the album here.

If Hot Milk's 2023 debut album A CALL TO THE VOID was the band's high-octane mission statement, the world isn’t ready to meet its fierce, rough-and-ready older sibling. Roaring into their next era, Hot Milk now proudly present Corporation P.O.P. — an extravagant, uncompromising assessment of the perilous world around us, examined through a sharp British lens that is both witty and universal.
 
Corporation P.O.P, produced by Jim Shaw, Zach Jones, and KJ Strock, offers the band at their heaviest with their raw, unapologetic lyrics which brim with unfiltered emotion. The record serves as part social commentary, showing the darker side to the world which they found themselves surrounded by when writing the record, all the while keeping their light, mocking humor throughout.

"Corporation P.O.P is a flurry of thoughts, feelings, ramblings from the answers 'n questions about where we’re at right now in England, the further western world and emotionally. It is an entry from the perspective of us lot who live a dichotomy of months in faraway lands and then experience the sudden grounding of returning home to Salford. It's hard not to compare, contrast, and try to understand. P.O.P = Payment of Pain. We all must live with the burden of modernity and this pain has been commodified; we all must pay. 'Corporation pop' itself is a term Hans grandad used to refer to the water supply, something that runs throughout all our homes, just as current events run through us all," says Jim Shaw.

Shaw continues, "Not saying we have the answers but the conversation should ALWAYS be open, bring logic and evidence, and everyone should be able to change their mind, we are never finished articles. In a time where the doomsday clock ticks closer and warfare looms, it seems prudent to look introspectively into the human condition and attempt to understand the bigger picture to find a solution. The truth about ourselves can lie somewhere in between, and the imperfections can be difficult to accept for some.

"Violence through expression, warfare through persuasion and I will cause irritation through takin the piss n goin' slightly above my station. Fuck it, that's where the fun lies. It doesn't always need to be said with a straight face."

The album was written and recorded both in their Salford flat and a live room in LA, producing songs that capture that live energy they are known for, with new tracks are poised for stages the world over.

"We wanted to bring it home on this record, shooting videos/photos in our backyards and out and about in Salford. This is about us, so visually it should be about us too.  Written in northern Hollywood and a bedroom in Salford opposite an Aldi, this is a true juxtaposition of an album," says Han Mee.

The album will be available as Color LP, Band Store Exclusive LP, and CD.

REMAINING U.S. SPRING TOUR DATES AND FESTIVALS:
5/10 — Denver, CO — Summit Music Hall
5/11 — Salt Lake City, UT — Soundwell
5/13 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon
5/14 — Portland, OR — Star Theater
5/16 — Sacramento, CA — Goldfield Trading Post
5/17 — Los Angeles, CA — Echoplex
5/18 — Phoenix, AZ — Ben's Bells Project / Phoenix Studio
5/20 — Dallas, TX — Trees
7/26 & 7/27 — Long Beach, CA — Warped Tour 2025
9/19 — Lousiville, KY — Louder Than Life Festival
10/2 — Sacramento, CA — Aftershock Festival

ABOUT HOT MILK:
HOT MILK have blossomed over the course of three self-produced EPs and a Top 40 album. This constant stream of releases has meant that Hot Milk were never away from the spotlight — or the stages they call home. Their rise has taken them to stadium support slots with Foo Fighters,  Blink-182, Green Day, Limp Bizkit, Pale Waves, and more. They have graced the main stages of the best festivals in Europe, America, South America, and Australia. An appearance on Jimmy Kimmel in the U.S., BBC Radio 1 playlists, covers of UK media, and their own headline sold-out tours, to over 120 million streams to date. The band also released a documentary, Kaleidoscope Of The Abyss, in Summer 2024.

BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville - 60th Academy of Country Music Awards Recap

Lainey Wilson, for the second consecutive year, was awarded the top honor at the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards with her win as Entertainer of the Year. Throughout the broadcast, she would capture a total of four awards (tying for top recipient of the night) including her third back-to-back win as Female Artist of the Year, her second win for Album of the Year with her latest release Whirlwind and her first win as Artist-Songwriter of the Year. The 16x ACM Award-winner also took the stage twice as a performer. First, she shared the title track “Whirlwind” from her ACM Album of the Year and later she performed “Trailblazer” with Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert. “Trailblazer,” available now, was also penned by Wilson, Lambert and Brandy Clark. 

Jelly Roll, a 3x Nominee at the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, hit the stage with his latest single “Heart of Stone,” a release from his latest album Beautifully Broken that is currently climbing the country charts. He would be joined on stage with Shaboozey as they delivered their collaboration “Amen.”


Blake Shelton, a 6x ACM winner, shared his 30th #1 single “Texas” in the program and would return to present Entertainer of the Year to Lainey Wilson to close out the awards. “Texas” is available on Shelton’s new album For Recreational Use Only, which is available today.

BLAKE SHELTON’S FOR RECREATIONAL USE ONLY — OUT NOW

Hot off his 30th career No. 1 with the twangy, swagger-packed “Texas,” Blake Shelton drops his new album For Recreational Use Only — a 12-track dose of country grit, charm, and heart available now via BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records. Listen Below

“I can’t believe it’s been four years since we released an album, and I’m excited to get the whole record out there,” said Shelton. “I’ve always been someone who wants to collect great songs but sometimes the hardest thing to do is to find something that hasn’t been said or written before or a melody that we haven't heard. I’m always on the search for that. I look back over the years, and I’m just proud because some of those songs don’t sound like anything else. And I think we did it again with this album.”

To celebrate the release, Shelton performed “Texas” on the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards and he will take over national television next week. On Tuesday, May 13, he’ll perform live from the Today Show Summer Concert Series stage at Rockefeller Plaza before stopping by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon later that night. He’ll close out the week on Friday, May 16, with a reunion on The Kelly Clarkson Show, joining his former Voice rival and longtime friend.

One of the most personal cuts on the record is “The Keys,” a melodic slow-burn co-written by HARDY that Shelton says hit him straight in the gut. “You know, I’m not the kind of guy who hangs on to a lot of stuff, but I’ve got this weird habit—I don’t throw away old keys,” Shelton explains. “Apartment keys, truck keys, padlock keys—I keep them all. So this song really got to me. The story, the melody, the way it wraps up at the end... I couldn’t shake it.”

HARDY, who also co-wrote the already released fan-favorite “Let Him In Anyway,” sent Shelton the demo with him specifically in mind. “This one’s more in my lane than his,” Shelton says. “It’s got the feel of those mellow, romantic tracks I’ve done through the years—like ‘Drink On It.’ Songs like this are why I still love making records.”

For Recreational Use Only marks Shelton’s first studio album in four years and his debut on BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. With guests including Gwen Stefani, John Anderson, and Craig Morgan, the project is a rowdy, reflective ride through heartbreak, backroads, and the kind of Southern wisdom you only learn the hard way. It's Shelton at his most grounded—and most freewheeling.

About Blake Shelton:

With 30 No. 1 singles, 52 million singles and 13 million albums sold and nearly 11 billion global streams, Blake Shelton has received numerous awards, including six ACMs, three AMAs, ten CMAs, 11 CMTs and six People’s Choice, among many others. His debut BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville album, For Recreational Use Only, drops May 9. The 12-track album, his first in nearly four years, features his No. 1 Wheelhouse Records single “Texas,” the poignant “Let Him In Anyway,” the red-dirt “Stay Country or Die Tryin’” and includes appearances by Gwen Stefani, John Anderson and Craig Morgan. 

Shelton kickstarted the year with his Live In Las Vegas Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. He just wrapped his Friends & Heroes Tour, which featured Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins and Emily Ann Roberts, and will play a variety of festivals this summer  The Grand Ole Opry member also remains focused on his Ole Red partnership with Ryman Hospitality, with locations currently in Tishomingo, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Orlando, and most recently, Las Vegas, with a stand-alone venue complete with a roof-top stage and bar on the Las Vegas strip.


KEEP UP WITH BLAKE SHELTON

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X | FACEBOOK

Morgan Wallen’s Final Release, “Superman,” Ahead of I’M THE PROBLEM

With one week remaining until the release of his full-length, fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, Morgan Wallen is offering fans one final taste of the upcoming project with the release of the highly-anticipated song dedicated to his son, “Superman,” available now. Listen Below
 
Wallen originally teased the up-tempo ballad, which he co-wrote alongside Ryan Vojtesak, John Byron, Blake Pendergrass and James Maddocks, on Instagram in February. The clip instantly drew excitement from fans, with Billboard praising its “self-aware lyrics.”
 
Wallen opened up about the song on Theo Von’s This Past Weekend stating, “I've tried so many times to write a song like that for him, and it always fell flat. I also didn't want to write a song to him that was all sappy and slow, and just what you would expect a dad's son song to be. That song has been written plenty enough and I wanted it to keep a little bit of my sound and my swag and just to be honest. And I feel like we accomplished that when we wrote it.”
 
I’m The Problem combines Wallen’s country, cross and dirt-rock influences, and features collaborations with pop superstars Post Malone and Tate McRae, plus close friends Eric Church, ERNEST and HARDY. Pre-save I’m The Problem HERE.
 
The album opens with the title track, “I’m The Problem,” a cutting double-edged confession that reveals the complexities of a relationship at its lowest point. It concludes with “I’m A Little Crazy,” a quiet, self-reflective song that looks inward while examining the world outside. Between all of that, Wallen displays his ability to reach listeners on a granular level. 
 
While Wallen co-wrote 22 of the tracks on the album, he tapped into 49 songwriters, curating a tracklist that’s both deeply personal and resonant, while viewing life events through a different lens than he’s used in the past.
 
I’m The Problem on vinyl & CD will be available for purchase on MorganWallen.com. Additionally, a special collector’s edition vinyl featuring a collectable hunting ID and CD with a collectable fishing ID will be available only at Target. Pre-order now.
 
The upcoming project sparked Wallen’s 2025 I’m The Problem Tour. Kicking off June 20 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, Wallen’s 20-show run will include stops in Seattle, Washington; Foxborough, Massachusetts; Toronto, Ontario and more. With a second stop recently added in Madison, Wisconsin, Wallen’s appearances will mark the first time an artist has played two consecutive nights at Camp Randall Stadium.
 
A rotating lineup of guests including Brooks & Dunn, Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett and Koe Wetzel join in direct support with Gavin Adcock, Corey Kent, Ella Langley and Anne Wilson as first-of-three across select dates. Coupled with Wallen’s Sand In My Boots Festival and a special one-night-only album release celebration show May 28 at Roundhouse in London, these 22 shows are the only place to see the superstar in 2025. 

Morgan Wallen 2025 I’m The Problem Tour Dates:
June 20 // NRG Stadium // Houston, TX w/ Corey Kent and Koe Wetzel
June 21 // NRG Stadium // Houston, TX w/ Corey Kent and Koe Wetzel
June 28 // Camp Randall Stadium // Madison, WI w/ Ella Langley and Miranda Lambert
June 29 // Camp Randall Stadium // Madison, WI w/ Ella Langley and Miranda Lambert
July 11 // Hard Rock Stadium // Miami Gardens, FL w/ Gavin Adcock and Miranda Lambert
July 12 // Hard Rock Stadium // Miami Gardens, FL w/ Gavin Adcock and Brooks & Dunn
July 18 // State Farm Stadium // Glendale, AZ w/ Ella Langley and Miranda Lambert
July 19 // State Farm Stadium // Glendale, AZ w/ Ella Langley and Brooks & Dunn
July 25 // Lumen Field // Seattle, WA w/ Anne Wilson and Miranda Lambert
July 26 // Lumen Field // Seattle, WA w/ Anne Wilson and Brooks & Dunn
Aug 1 // Levi’s Stadium // Santa Clara, CA w/ Anne Wilson and Miranda Lambert
Aug 2 // Levi’s Stadium // Santa Clara, CA w/ Anne Wilson and Brooks & Dunn
Aug 15 // Huntington Bank Field // Cleveland, OH w/ Ella Langley and Miranda Lambert
Aug 16 // Huntington Bank Field // Cleveland, OH w/ Ella Langley and Thomas Rhett
Aug 22 // Gillette Stadium // Foxborough, MA w/ Corey Kent and Miranda Lambert
Aug 23 // Gillette Stadium // Foxborough, MA w/ Corey Kent and Miranda Lambert
Sep 4 // Rogers Centre // Toronto, ON w/ Gavin Adcock and Miranda Lambert
Sep 5 // Rogers Centre // Toronto, ON w/ Gavin Adcock and Brooks & Dunn
Sep 12 // Commonwealth Stadium // Edmonton, AB w/ Ella Langley and Miranda Lambert
Sep 13 // Commonwealth Stadium // Edmonton, AB w/ Ella Langley and Brooks & Dunn
 
About Morgan Wallen:
Morgan Wallen sets the pace in, and beyond, country music – with Billboard calling him “the biggest country star in the world” and The New York Times doubling down, declaring he’s “one of the biggest stars in pop, period.” With 18 No. 1 singles at Country radio, 19 Billboard Music Awards to-date, more than 170 weeks spent atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart (the most in country music history), the highest selling country tour under his belt and moreWallen has propelled country music to a global level in less than five years. As Las Vegas Review Journal puts it: “Wallen’s appeal is remarkable as it is fueled by his ability to connect to a crowd.” 
 
With Dangerous: The Double Album, Wallen solidified his place as country music’s “dominant superstar,” with the project recently being named Billboard’s No. 1 Album of the 21st Century. One Thing At A Time’s groundbreaking success saw Wallen’s crossover appeal reach a global scale, as he topped the Australian ARIA charts for the first time, along with a host of other accolades. With three No. 1’s already hailing from his forthcoming album release I’m The Problem, due May 16 via Big Loud / Mercury, Wallen digs even deeper, uncovering a side that’s both more vulnerable and more resolute than ever before.
 
As Wallen prepares a refreshed setlist for his 20-stadium-show I’m the Problem Tour, kicking off on June 20 in Houston, Texas, he’s also highlighting some of his favorite artists by bringing the personally-curated, multi-genre Sand In My Boots Music Festival to Gulf Shores, Alabama, this May, which sold out in less than two hours.
 
Wallen continues to donate a portion of every ticket sold to his Morgan Wallen Foundation — which supports youth music and athletic programs and gives communities access to essentials in times of crisis. More at MorganWallen.com.

GHOST BATH - ROSE THORN NECKLACE OUT NOW + RELEASE VIDEO VISUALIZER FOR 'VODKA BUTTERFLY'

Depressive black metallers GHOST BATH have emerged from beyond the veil with their new album, Rose Thorn Necklace, out now via Nuclear Blast Records.  In their 12th year of existence, the band is not in the business of softening the edges. Rather, the frontman (Nameless aka Dennis Mikula) is leaning more toward his antisocial traits, serrated like a rusty knife yet beautifully honed over years of toil. Today, the band release the visualizer for the track, 'Vodka Butterfly'.
 
GHOST BATH comments, "Rose Thorn Necklace is now yours. This latest offering is very special and we hope you take from it whatever you need."

Watch the visualizer for 'Vodka Butterfly', below:

Purchase & stream Rose Thorn Necklace:
https://ghostbath.bfan.link/rose-thorn-necklace-album

Rose Thorn Necklace is now available for purchase in the following formats:

  • CD Jewel Case

  • LP

    • Pink Swirl

    • Red Swirl

Rose Thorn Necklace was recorded in 2024 between January and June. The drums were recorded and engineered by Mike Heller at Heaven and Heller Studios while the remaining sections were completed by Nameless (Dennis Mikula) at his home studio. The album was mixed and mastered by Jack Shirley. The cover artwork was created by Ksenija Tarasova. Free from the Moonlover-Starmourner-Self Loather conceptual trilogy, sole proprietor Nameless(aka Dennis Mikula) explores the most intense and introspective music from GHOST BATH’s oeuvre, advancing with blackened blasts and melancholic movements while moving his only child forward into the unknown.

GHOST BATH is:
Nameless (Dennis Mikula) | Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Piano, Synth
Mike Heller | Drums
Chewie a.k.a. Jason Tjoei | Piano

Steve Hackett announces ‘The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall’ for release July 11th 2025

Steve Hackett proudly presents ‘The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall’, a stunning audio/visual document of his show at the iconic London venue in October 2024, set for release on July 11th 2025. Watch the band performing ‘The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway’ below:
 

Steve and his live band celebrate the 50th anniversary of the legendary Genesis concept album ‘The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway’, with a selection of his favourite tracks from that album including ‘Fly On A Windshield’ & ‘Lilywhite Lilith’. The live set also includes other Genesis & solo classics, including music from his most recent acclaimed album ‘The Circus And The Nightwhale’. This special evening saw the band joined by guests including Ray Wilson, Steve Rothery, Amanda Lehmann & John Hackett. 
 

Steve comments: “I was so happy to revisit the Lamb on tour. The Royal Albert Hall evening was particularly memorable. It is my favourite London venue and the atmosphere there that night was absolutely electric… I was really pleased that everyone in the band and the performing guests pulled it off with flying colours!”
 

Expertly mixed by Grammy-award winning engineer Chris Lord-Alge, and mastered by Ted Jensen at Sterling Sound, the night was filmed by longtime collaborator Paul M Green, and is presented as Special Edition 2CD+Blu-ray Digipak which includes 5.1 Surround Sound & bonus interview content. The vinyl arrives as a deluxe 4LP 180g boxset, including 12-page LP-size booklet featuring photos from the evening. Pre-order now here: https://stevehackett.lnk.to/TheLambStandsUpLive-Album

Steve Hackett & band are currently continuing their Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlight & Solo tour around Europe, before taking it to Japan in July, Italy in September & North America in October & November. For a full list of dates, head to: https://www.hackettsongs.com/tour.html 
 

Earlier this year, Steve Hackett release ‘Live Magic At Trading Boundaries’, featuring live recordings from his annual acoustic shows at Trading Boundaries in the UK. Listen now here: https://stevehackett.lnk.to/LiveMagicAtTradingBoundaries 

 

STEVE HACKETT Online:

www.hackettsongs.com

 www.facebook.com/pages/Steve-Hackett/123101228589

https://www.instagram.com/stevehackettofficial/

http://hackettsongs.com/tour.html

https://bsky.app/profile/stevehacketthq.bsky.social

 

INSIDEOUTMUSIC Online:

www.insideoutmusic.com

www.youtube.com/InsideOutMusicTV

 www.facebook.com/InsideOutMusic

www.twitter.com/insideouteu 

Hillhaven Drop "Say My Name" Video — WATCH // Band Reveals New Lineup

Last year, HILLHAVEN dropped seven singles to introduce the band to the hard rock scene.

Today, the band shares its first taste of new music in 2025 with the video for the single "Say My Name."

Watch it below.

The song is not the only thing that's new in Hillhaven's universe.

The band's lineup has shifted and is now comprised of Chris Kelly on vocals; Zach Moiser on drums; Chris LaPlante on guitars; and bassist Jaime GoWell.

Kelly touches on the new material and the lineup change.

"'Say My Name' marks a new, more refined and developed era of Hillhaven," says Kelly. "We've worked to combine several of the various elements listeners loved from last year's cycle of music and, simply put — the project is taking on a clearer identity. I'm incredibly honored and grateful to welcome my good friends Zach Moiser and Chris LaPlante into the fold. To say I'm excited for audiences to see these guys in action is a gross understatement."

He continues, "Equal honor and gratitude needs to be extended to Ricky Armellino, Maty Madiro, and Jimmy Bennet for being a part of last year's cycle, as well as Hillhaven's debut live performance. Their individual talent cannot be overstated and I am beyond proud to call them my friends. It is no secret to anyone that they will continue to do great things within their respective bands."

Kelly finishes, "The boys and I are eternally grateful for the audience that has rallied around us. We're excited for another year of new music and growth, and can't wait to show everyone what we've been up to."

The Pretty Wild Unleash New Track "Omens" + Official Music Video via Sumerian Records

Rising metaphysical metalcore powerhouse The Pretty Wild has today unleashed their powerful new track "Omens" and the accompanying visualizer, with an official music video to follow (via Sumerian Records). When asked about the track, Jylshared:

"'OMENS' is an anthem for those done performing. Our song calls out the masks we all are subconsciously conditioned to wear to survive in life and the tragic loops they lead us into. It's about finally choosing inner truth over applause, and the painful realization that to find true coherence, the mask must be ripped off, along with the life, lies, and illusions built around it.”

Prior to today, The Pretty Wild first released the official "sLeepwALKeR" music video through their new label home, which climbed theTikTok Viral Music Charts to #43 with over 15k organic creations on the platform. The sister duo next shared "Button Eyes" which is now at Active Rock radio. Together, the tracks have already amassed a staggering 11.7 million streams across streaming platformswith nearly 700k views on YouTube. The Pretty Wild also joined forces with Kittie and Diamante to release an emotionally gripping cover of Metallica's "The Unforgiven" for the 'Queen of the Ring' official motion picture soundtrack. Stream "Omens" at the link here, and watch the visualizer below.

Don't miss The Pretty Wild bring the heat all summer on the newly-announced Hell Hath No Fury tour with In This Moment, Wargasm, and Kat Von D. Tickets to the tour are on sale to the general public tomorrow, Friday, May 9, at 10 am local time at the link here. To kick things off, the band will be making their Welcome To Rockville debut next Thursday, May 15, and performing at Inkcarceration 2025 in July. Be sure to watch this space for more The Pretty Wild news coming soon.

The Pretty Wild Upcoming Tour Dates:

Thu May 15 – Daytona Beach, FL @ Welcome To Rockville +

Wed Jul 16 – Green Bay, WI – Epic Events Center

Fri Jul 18 – Cadott, WI – Rock Fest*

Sat Jul 19 – Mansfield, OH – Inkcarceration Festival +

Tue Jul 22 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works

Wed Jul 23 – Chattanooga, TN – The Signal

Thu Jul 24 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory

Sat Jul 26 – Council Bluffs, IA – Harrah's Stir Cove

Sun Jul 27 – Denver, CO – Unhinged Fest*

Tue Jul 29 – Springfield, MO – Gillioz Theatre

Wed Jul 30 – Memphis, TN – Graceland Sound Stage

Fri Aug 01 – Dubuque, IA – Q Casino - Back Waters Stage

Sat Aug 02 – Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live at 20 Monroe

Sun Aug 03 – Wheeling, WV – Capitol Theatre

Tue Aug 05 – Rochester, NY – Kodak Center Theater

Wed Aug 06 – Schenectady, NY – Proctors Theatre

Fri Aug 08 – Detroit, MI – Masonic Temple Theatre

Sat Aug 09 – Hammond, IN – The Venue at Horseshoe

Sun Aug 10 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room at Old National Centre

Tue Aug 12 – Richmond, VA – The National

Thu Aug 14 – Worcester, MA – Palladium

Fri Aug 15 – Hanover, MD – The Hall at Live!

Sat Aug 16 – Atlantic City, NJ – Tropicana Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City

+Festival Date

*No The Pretty Wild

ABOUT THE PRETTY WILD

The Pretty Wild is a genre-bending, boundary-breaking powerhouse fusing rebellious spirit with raw, heartfelt lyricism that speaks to a generation craving authenticity. Refusing to be confined by the rules and expectations of traditional society, The Pretty Wild embrace their relentless pursuit of truth beyond societal expectations, all while making music for everyone brave enough to break free. With already amassing over 16 million all-time streams and planned performances this year at major national festivals such as Welcome To Rockville and Inkcarceration 2025, as well as the hotly-anticipated Hell Hath No Fury tour with In This Moment, Wargasm, and Kat Von D, the sky is the limit for the sister duo who are further solidifying themselves as a force to be reckoned with in modern heavy music.

BATTLE BEAST - release new song 'Last Goodbye' + UK tour dates in October

With six records since their formation in 2008, four consecutive number #1 albums in their home country, and the strongest line-up the Finnish power/symphonic metal group has ever had, today BATTLE BEAST release their brand-new single. 'Last Goodbye' is the first taste from the band’s seventh album, set to be released later this year.

Member Eero Sipilä stated excitedly: 

”The spark for Last Goodbye was lit in the least rock ’n roll place imaginable: a hospital. In 2020, I spent a few weeks there and met an older woman battling cancer—a fight she'd been waging on and off since 1985. It made me wonder: how much can a person take before they give up? But she never did. She kept showing up, kept pushing through the treatments, kept being around. Last Goodbye is a tribute to that human fighting spirit—the will to rise every time life knocks you down. As long as you're breathing, you're still in the game.” 

Stream 'Last Goodbye' here: https://battlebeast.bfan.link/last-goodbye
Watch the new video for ''Last Goodbye' below:

BATTLE BEAST´s forthcoming European tour will start with a bang on October 17th with their biggest German headline show to date at Hamburg’s Inselpark Arena, and 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. 

Close to two decades into their career, with six records, 400M+ streams, four consecutive number #1 albums in their home country, and the strongest line-up the Finnish symphonic heavy metal group ever had, BATTLE BEAST released their first live album Circus Of Doom – Live in Helsinki 2023 on April 11th, via Nuclear Blast Records. The live album is available on all DSPs and as a 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 YrlundCircus 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 NooraJanneJoonaJuusoEero and Pyry are already preparing an even more exciting new chapter for their fantastic tale that will hit you straight in the heart and take you beyond the burning skies.

BATTLE BEAST is:
Noora Louhimo | vocals
Eero Sipilä | bass
Joona Björkroth | guitars
Juuso Soinio | guitars
Janne Björkroth | keyboards
Pyry Vikki | drums

Mick Blankenship Releases New EP "Legacy" on May 11th; Signs to Paul Crosby Management ​     

Hard rock artist Mick Blankenship releases a powerful new chapter in his musical journey: Legacy, a six-track E.P. featuring five brand-new originals and a striking cover of Queensrÿche’s classic “Silent Lucidity.” Marking his third studio release, Legacy finds Blankenship boldly reinventing his sound with a fresh edge, and raw intensity.

 

For the first time, Blankenship collaborates with co-writer and co-producer Noah Henson (Brantley Gilbert, Pillar), ushering in a modernized era of Hard Rock music. The E.P. is anchored by the electrifying singles “Sands of Time” and “Change of Season,” each showcasing Blankenship’s signature vocal grit and sonic force.

 

Legacy is a loud, raw,  villainous, "in your face" kind of album filled with familiar references to throwback bands like Motley Crue and Van Halen, but has the power of bands like Disturbed and Shinedown to deliver the new sound Blankenship has been cultivating.

 

In addition to the release of Legacy, Blankenship has officially signed with Paul Crosby Management. Paul Crosby, best known as the former drummer of the multi-platinum rock band Saliva, brings years of experience and industry insight to the team as Blankenship enters this next phase of his career.

  

Pre-Save Legacy

https://linktr.ee/mickblankenship

https://mickblankenship.com/music

Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio is the American Rock artist & multi-instrumentalist known as “Mick Blankenship”


Mick worked with producer John Moyer (Disturbed) to record his first two full length albums; Crown of Apathy and Madness in the Shadows. Mick's songs "Transcend the Machine" and "Rule the World" have both received radio play in the US and Europe, with "Rule the World" charting on Foundations Top 10 Rock charts in 2021 and was the number one most requested song on Boston Rock Radio (Z107) 4 weeks in a row. Mick collaborated with guitarist Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, (Guns N’ Roses/ Sons of Appolo) as well as John Moyer on his first record.

 

Mick has amassed a devoted following of 300k followers on social media, 10 million streams on music platforms and more than 3 million views on YouTube. Mick currently has over 140k followers on TikTok and growing.
 
Influenced by artists like Disturbed, Shinedown and Alice in Chains, with a modern appeal, Mick's music is sure to please a large audience. 

 

Upcoming Tour Dates:

 

August 25 @ The Whisky a GoGo in Hollywood, CA w/ John Corabi

September 19 @ JD Legends in Franklin, OH w/ Queensryche

October 4 @ Trenton Fall Festival in Trenton, OH

For More Information Please Visit:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitch

TikTok

YouTube

Paradise Slaves (Ex-36 Crazyfists, Diecast) Share Video for Cover of "Somebody to Shove"

PARADISE SLAVES, the brand new band featuring former members of 36 CRAZYFISTS and DIECAST, just released their debut album With Hell In His Eyes via Spinefarm. Get it here.

Today, the band has unleashed the studio video for its cover of Soul Asylum's '90s hit "Somebody to Shove." Watch it below.

"This all started the first time we all hung out as a band," guitarist Jon Kita offers. "[Vocalist] Brock [Lindow]  put on 'Somebody to Shove' and pointed out how he always wanted to cover it and we were all surprised that no one had. Over the next few days, we put it on the TouchTunes at every bar we went to and without fail, people would sing along to it regardless of their age. When I got home, I worked out a version of the song in a format and key that fit Brock's range, re-orchestrated things a bit here and there, tracked the guitars, bass, and drums, and sent it to the guys as a surprise."

Kita continues, "After Brock heard it, he booked studio time that week and tracked the vocals. Outside of Ryan re-tracking the drums and us re-amping the guitar and bass at mix time, the version you hear on the album is the version we put together following the very first time we got together in person. It's such an iconic track, tends to get overlooked because of some of Soul Asylum's more popular songs, and it lent itself to a heavier version right out of the gate."

Paradise Slaves put their unique stamp on a grunge x alt classic. It's the reimagining you never expected and will totally fall in love with!

Paradise Slaves will be having a record release party at Gabes 252 in Westfield, Massachusetts on Saturday, June 7. Support will come from Byzantine and Hero and the Horror. Get tickets here.

The Boston-by-way-of-Anchorage quartet cements an uncanny union between aforementioned vocal powerhouse Lindow (36 Crazyfists), solo artist and guitarist Tyler Stroetzel, 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. 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.

BLACKBRAID has partnered with Fire in the Mountains Festival to curate a special pre-release event where festival attendees will get to hear 'Blackbraid III' ahead of its August 8 release date! In addition, BLACKBRAID is now pleased to announce a special live Q&A that will take place during the listening session with Metal Injection's Frank Godla!

Fire in the Mountains will take place in Montana from July 25-27, 2025 at the Red Eagle Campground on the Blackfeet Nation Reserve. BLACKBRAID joins an esteemed lineup of artists including Wardruna, Old Man's Child, Chelsea Wolfe, Converge, Blood Incantation, and more! Tickets are available HERE while the full lineup and all pertinent festival information can be found HERE.

Blackbraid previously commented on the appearance, "I am very pleased to announce that I have partnered with Fire in the Mountains to curate an exclusive pre-release event for my forthcoming full length 'Blackbraid III.' Festival goers will have the opportunity to hear the album in its entirety ahead of its release. 

"I am extremely proud of this album and absolutely cannot wait to share it with you, and I couldn't think of a more perfect place to debut it than this beautiful festival deep in the heart of Blackfeet Nation territory. Very grateful to be a part of Fire In The Mountains, see you there!"

More details on 'Blackbraid III' will be revealed soon while album details can be found below!

The captivating album artwork was created in collaboration with Adam Burke, who handled the painting, and mainstay Blackbraid album artist Adrian Baxter, who did the illustration. It can be found below along with the tracklist!

'Blackbraid II' can now be streamed everywhere or ordered via Bandcamp or the official merch stores in USA and EU.

Blackbraid is a solo indigenous black metal project from from the depths of the Adirondack wilderness creating music as raw and powerful as the mountains from whence it came… 

Creator of Blackbraid: Sgah’gahsowáh

'Blackbraid III' Album Credits:

Composed & performed by Sgah'gahsowáh

Drums, recording, mixing & mastering by Neil Schneider 

Guitar solo in “God of Black Blood" performed by Randy Moore

“Fleshbound" originally composed by Lord Belial

Painting by Adam Burke

Illustration by Adrian Baxter

Visual development & graphic design by Wolf Mountain Productions 

Follow // Listen:

Bandcamp

Spotify

Apple Music

YouTube

Instagram

Shop/Pre-order:

Official Merch Store (USA)

Official Merch Store (EU) 

Blackbraid is an independent artist and is not contracted to or owned by any music label. 

Life of Agony Announce "30 Years of Ugly" Tour Celebrating Iconic 1995 Album

Life of Agony are excited to announce the "30 Years of Ugly" tour, a celebration of their deeply personal 1995 release, Ugly (Roadrunner Records). For the first time in the band's history, the New York quartet will perform their sophomore album in its entirety, giving fans a rare opportunity to experience the full power and emotion of this critically lauded record in a live setting.

Ugly marked a major artistic evolution for the band, showcasing a rawer, more melodic side while still delivering the heavy grooves and anguished intensity that defined their debut, River Runs Red.

Lyrically, the album features some of the band's most beloved and emotionally resonant tracks, including "Let's Pretend," a haunting ballad that explores the pain of loss and denial; "Unstable," focusing on the devastating impact of cancer; "Lost at 22," an anthem of youthful confusion and desperation; and the title track "Ugly," a slow-burning, introspective piece that builds to a cathartic crescendo. Throughout, the album delves deeply into themes of depression, isolation, and despair, giving voice to emotional struggles with a rare honesty. Songs like "I Regret" and "Damned If I Do" revealed a more driving hard rock edge, while deep cuts like "Other Side of the River" and "How It Would Be" cemented the album's reputation as an unfiltered and affecting release in the metal/crossover canon. 

"Everyone was expecting River Runs Red, Part 2, but Ugly was a left, right, and U-turn! People were like, 'Okay, this is different?!'" explains L.O.A. guitarist Joey Zampella. "It took some time to sink its hooks into our listeners, but when it did, it became a classic. I'm super excited to celebrate the 'Ugly Duckling' of the L.O.A. catalog!"

The U.S. leg of the tour kicks off September 19 in Bensalem, PA, and includes a special lineup featuring God Forbid. L.O.A. and God Forbid are then joined by Jasta, the solo project of Hatebreed frontman Jamey Jasta on September 20 at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, NJ. Jasta will be the main support on the rest of the U.S. dates. Following the U.S. run, Life of Agony will head overseas in November for a full European leg, joined by special guests Ugly Kid Joe. This is meaningful and significant, because U.K.J. frontman Whitfield Crane took over lead vocals for L.O.A. in 1998, when Keith Caputo exited the group temporarily.

"Ugly was probably the most emotionally vulnerable record we ever made," says L.O.A. bassist Alan Robert. "It was a big risk back then—to release something so different from River Runs Red — but we were just in a much different headspace, and we always wore our hearts on our sleeves. The album ended up connecting with people in a deep, lasting way. Playing it live from front to back is going to be powerful for both the band and the fans."

"I'm very excited to get back out on the road to play Ugly in its entirety and to share the stage with God Forbid, our boy Jasta, and our good buddies from Ugly Kid Joe — along with our special friend Whitfield Crane," says L.O.A. singer Keith Caputo. "I might even have to convince Whit to sing an L.O.A. song with us out there. That would be so cool. I'm looking forward to creating more incredible moments with L.O.A. and making memories with great people in killer bands. Come hang out with us for an unforgettable night of music and entertainment."

LIFE OF AGONY U.S. TOUR DATES 

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS JASTA 
(GOD FORBID APPEARS ON SELECT DATES AS MARKED):

9/19 — Bensalem, PA — Broken Goblet* (L.O.A. & G.F. only)
9/20 — Sayreville, NJ — Starland Ballroom* (L.O.A., G.F., + Jasta)
9/21 — Norwalk, CT — District Music Hall 
9/23 — Pittsburgh, PA — Jergels
9/24 — Columbus, OH — The King of Clubs 
9/26 — Cleveland, OH — The Winchester 
9/27 — Flint, MI — The Machine Shop 
9/28 — Joliet, IL — The Forge 
9/30 — Leesburg, VA — Tally Ho Theater 
10/1 — Reading, PA — Reverb
10/3 — Worcester, MA —  Palladium 
10/4 — Hampton Beach, NH — Wally's 
10/5 — Patchogue, NY — Stereo Garden

EU TOUR DATES
WITH SPECIAL GUESTS UGLY JOE:

11/4 — Dornbirn, AT — Conrad Sohm
11/7 — Munich, DE — Backstage Werk 
11/8 — Pilsen, CZ — KD Serikova 
11/9 — Katowice, PL — P23 (L.O.A. only) 
11/11 — Berlin, DE — Columbia Club 
11/12 — Hannover, DE — Capitol 
11/14 — Saarbrucken, DE — The Garage 
11/15 — Eindhoven, NL — Helldorado Festival 
11/16 — Antwerp, BE — Trix
11/18 — Utrecht, NL — Tivoli Rotunda 
11/19 — Bochum, DE — Zeche 
11/20 — Drachten, NL — Iduna

 

Tickets go on sale Friday, May 9.

For more information, visit here.

Parkway Drive Drop Video For New Single "Sacred" — WATCH // Band Touring on Summer of Loud This June + July

Today, Parkway Drive unveil their powerful new track "Sacred" — a monumental blend of strength and vision that showcases the band's ultimate drive and power. The anthemic new single marks the metal titans' first release since their critically acclaimed 2022 album Darker Still, and arrives alongside a visually stunning music video, directed by Third Eye Visuals.
 
Watch the video below. 
 
Vocalist Winston McCall shares, "The mission statement for 'Sacred' is pretty damn simple. An anthemic wrecking ball of positive energy. Our lives and the way we exist in the world has been pushed further and further through the lenses and frames of negativity and hopelessness. Obsession with everything we lack, everything we hate, everyone we blame, everything that keeps us down. We sell the unique parts of us most precious just to buy back manufactured pieces of self in order that we may feel whole again. 'Sacred' is our identity. 'Sacred' is our time. Never lose sight and never lose hope."

The release of "Sacred" arrives as Parkway Drive gear up for a landmark year of performances, starting with a sold-out symphonic show at the iconic Sydney Opera House this June — a powerful culmination and celebration of their 20-year journey. From there, they will co-headline the Summer of Loud 2025 tour across the U.S. and Canada, which will see them playing some of their biggest North American shows yet. Parkway Drive will serve as a co-headliner on Summer of Loud tour alongside Beartooth, I Prevail, and Killswitch Engage. All dates are below.
 
The band's landmark year will conclude with the band’s highly anticipated 20 Year Anniversary Arena Tour across Europe and the UK this fall. Joining them on this momentous tour will be fellow Australians Thy Art Is Murder, a deathcore powerhouse, and The Amity Affliction, celebrated for their emotionally charged post-hardcore. This massive arena run will feature Parkway Drive's most ambitious production to date, performed with the passion and power that has defined Parkway Drive as one of the most important forces in modern metal. Tickets are available here.

PARKWAY DRIVE ON TOUR:
WITH SUMMER OF LOUD:

6/21 — West Palm Beach, FL — iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
6/22 — Tampa, FL — MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
6/24 — Atlanta, GA — Lakewood Amphitheatre
6/26 — Dallas, TX — Dos Equis Pavillion
6/27 — Austin, TX — Germania Insurance Amphitheater
6/28 — Houston, TX _ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
7/1 — Phoenix, AZ — Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
7/2 — San Diego, CA — Gallagher Square at Petco Park
7/5 — Irvine, CA — Great Park Live
7/6 — Concord, CA — Toyota Pavilion at Concord
7/8 — Salt Lake City, UT — Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
7/9 — Denver, CO — The JunkYard
7/11 — Somerset, WI — Somerset Amphitheater
7/12 — Green Bay, WI — Capital Credit Union Park
7/13 — Tinley Park, IL — Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
7/15 — Toronto, ON — Budweiser Stage
7/16 — Clarkston, MI — Pine Knob Music Theatre
7/18 — Mansfield, OH — Inkcarceration*
7/19 — York, PA — York State Fair*
7/20 — Wantagh, NY — Northwell at Jones Beach Theater
7/22 — Mansfield, MA — Xfinity Center
7/23 — Camden, NJ — Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
7/24 — Holmdel, NJ — PNC Bank Arts Center
7/26 — Bristow, VA — Jiffy Lube Live
7/27 — Charlotte, NC — PNC Music Pavilion
*Festival

British Rock Sensation INGLORIOUS Unveils New Single "Stand" + Music Video

The acclaimed British hard rock band INGLORIOUS are pleased to share their new single “Stand,” taken from the highly anticipated new studio album, 'V,' out on June 6th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl. The new single is accompanied by a music video, available to view below.

Lead singer Nathan James described the track by saying:

'Stand' is probably the grooviest INGLORIOUS song to date. It has all the classic INGLORIOUS bits. Big riffs and a sing-along chorus. But in a totally different way to anything we've done before. Colin played me the riff and I instantly said, 'This is gonna be a single.' So proud of this tune. Everyone played great on this track. Very proud of it. Crank it up and enjoy!”

Bassist Colin Parkinson added:

'Stand' was written entirely on bass a few years ago during the pandemic. It was initially about wanting to be back around nature rather than around the day-to-day grind in a city, especially at that time. It was a song that I never thought could work with INGLORIOUS, to be honest. But I played it to Nathan after the last demo session, and he loved it. I then sent him the lyrics I had, and he changed them into something more updated and suited to how he was feeling. It’s turned out great and is one of my favourite songs on the album!”

 

Watch the Music Video for “Stand” Below

INGLORIOUS returns with frontman Nathan James and original bassist Colin Parkinson. Nathan James, who founded the band in 2014, has been singing professionally for 20 years. He has performed/recorded with artists such as Ginger Baker, Uli Jon Roth, and The Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

More recently, he has appeared in Jeff Wayne’s musical version of The War Of The Worlds, Steve Steinman’s Vampires Rock Symphonic, 80’s Classical, and Zeppelin Symphonic. Nathan also fronts Supergroup Iconic, under the Frontiers roster featuring Michael Sweet, Joel Hoekstra, Marco Mendoza, and Tommy Aldridge.

In 2022, after a lengthy UK tour, INGLORIOUS announced a hiatus. After seven years of non-stop touring with bands such as The Winery Dogs, Steel Panther, The Dead Daisies, Last In Line, as well as their own international tours and festival appearances, recording four original albums, a live album and a covers album, everyone felt it was the right time to take a break.

Nathan is now back, looking forward to unleashing his powerful voice, and he joined forces once again with original INGLORIOUS bass player and main co-writer Colin Parkinson, who co-wrote and released the first three albums with the band: 'Inglorious,' 'II' and 'Ride To Nowhere.'

Joining them is renowned guitarist Richard Shaw, best known for his work with English extreme metal band Cradle Of Filth, as well as NG26, Emperor Chung, and Plague Of Angels. Richard brings exceptional musicality and a fresh energy to the band’s sound.

On drums, longtime friend of Nathan, Henry Rogers, completes the lineup. A celebrated musician, Henry has played with Touchstone, Mostly Autumn, Mia Klose, and Mark Kelly’s Marathon and has earned accolades such as “Drummer Of The Year” in Classic Rock Prog Magazine and Rhythm Magazine’s list of influential progressive drummers.

Produced by Colin Parkinson, 'V' was mixed by Tony Draper, who also worked on 'Inglorious II' and 'Ride To Nowhere,' ensuring the album retains the band’s signature sound while exploring new heights.

About the new album, James stated:

“In the summer of 2023, I sent a message to Colin and asked him if he wanted to come for a pint. A few meetings and writing sessions later, we had more than an album’s worth of great material, and I can honestly say I've enjoyed every second of creating this album with him and the new lineup. Colin has always been a great songwriter, and over the years we've both matured as artists, writers, performers, and people. This is going to be a great year for INGLORIOUS and I'm excited to welcome Colin back and to share this new music with everyone”.

Parkinson adds:

“I am extremely happy to be returning to INGLORIOUS after a while away. It’s the right time to get some kickass new music out there for the fans and to focus on the future. Writing and recording with Nathan again has been the easiest it’s ever been; it all flowed so well. We’ve all played and sang our asses off on these songs and I know the new album will not disappoint!”

Pre-Order 'V' HERE

INGLORIOUS are:

Nathan James - Vocals, backing vocals

Colin Parkinson - Bass guitar, /acoustic guitar, electric guitar, keys, percussion

Richard Shaw - Electric guitars

Henry Rogers - Drums, percussion

Tony Draper – Keys

San Francisco's AURSJOEN channels her Nordic roots on 'Apollo' - Watch the video.

San Francisco-based ethereal artist AURSJOEN presents 'Apollo', the third single from her sensual and mystical debut 'Strand' EP, released via Stratis Capta Records and produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by William Faith (The Bellwether Syndicate, Faith and the Muse, Mephisto Waltz, Christian Death) at 13 Studio in Chicago.

AURSJOEN is the project of Ria Aursjoen, who is vocalist and keyboardist for critically acclaimed post-punk outfit Octavian Winters, whose 2023 debut EP 'The Line or Curve' was followed by 2024's double A-side single 'Nebula / Velveteen' with electronic legend Mark Pistel (Meat Beat Manifesto, Consolidated). A classically-trained singer and multi-instrumentalist, her musical past is steeped in genres ranging from Celtic and Nordic folk to darkwave and progressive metal.

Written by Aursjoen 10 years ago, 'Apollo' features a guest performance by Stephan Bryan Salit of Octavian Winters on guitar. As with the previous two singles - the ever-haunting 'For Want Of' and her ethereal debut 'Nytår' - the new video is the work of filmmaker David Kruschke, showcasing his masterful capture of light and colour. 

“Apollo” was written a few years ago and the idea was inspired by Dave Wyndorf (Monster Magnet). I always found Dave’s use of his voice absolutely masterful, with phrasing fit perfectly to the lyrics, and with this sort of dangerous edge to it. An incredibly evocative voice, with a sort of dark shamanic power. It started me thinking about the voice as a weapon, from everyday life and how we can so deeply cut into people, to magickal practices, summonings, rituals and so forth," says Ria Aursjoen.

"David Kruschke and I played with the idea of a sort of summoning, or perhaps a sort of ecstatic possession… in it, I discover a mask that seems to be a gateway to – or for – something. Apollo is the god of music and poetry, of course, but also the god of prophecy and that altered oracular state."

These ideas all relate to this collection of work as AURSJOEN, which heralds Ria Aursjoen’s emergence in a new direction, without leaving behind her ongoing work with Octavian Winters. Lush, layered and sweepingly cinematic, this dynamic slice of ethereal gothica is dark and light in equal measure. While Aursjoen’s voice and composition are distinctly recognizable and unique, the performances and sweeping arrangements somewhat recall Faith’s work with Faith and the Muse.

“This record is very special for me, as this is the first time I have had free creative rein to release work that is entirely my own. I have always enjoyed collaborating with other musicians, but I had built up a huge amount of my own material that had nowhere to go. It’s very exciting and fulfilling for me to bring all that together into one package. The listening arc of this EP represents many different times of life for me. William Faith and I have woven everything together with a recognizable sound that has continuity as well as variety.," says Ria Aursjoen

"What I really love is to create music that is more than the sum of its parts, where the interplay (either harmonically or rhythmically) between different motifs gives birth to something extra, something “meta” that you can’t predict or engineer. I think those two states of feeling did that in my life too… a different self,  a new era was born for me out of that ice and fire."

As someone who has synesthesia, Aursjoen experiences sound as visual structures, colours and textures. As a child, she wrote her musical ideas down in a unique system of notation she created, based around her visual perceptions of music. A published writer and visual artist, Aursjoen also won two national art competitions by eight and illustrated a children’s book. She creates much of Octavian Winters’ artwork and currently works with inks and parchment velum to create palimpsest-style art.
 
The 'Strand' EP is out now digitally everywhere, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp.

EP CREDITS
All songs written & performed by Ria Amenti Aursjoen
Arranged by Ria Aursjoen and William Faith
Guitars on 'Lilypad' & 'Apollo' by Stephan Bryan Salit
Produced, recorded, mixed & mastered by William Faith at 13 Studio in Chicago
Published by Airdaughter Music BMI
Released by Stratis Capta Records
Cover artwork by Ria Aursjoen
Videos filmed by David Kruschke
Special appearance by Steve Devaney
Mask provided courtesy of Steve Devaney
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Keep up with AURSJOEN
Website Facebook | Bandcamp | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Apple Music | Spotify | Press contact

Keep up with Shameless Promotion PR
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Freeze The Fall Unleash Heaviest Cut Yet “Oubliette” Out Now Ahead of The Red Garden EP Due June 18

“Oubliette” the latest single from Kelowna power trio FREEZE THE FALL, now streaming, is a tightly crafted cut blending aggressive riffs, soaring melodies and intense lyrical themes. The track marks a significant step forward for the metallers showcasing their ability to write songs that are both blistering and emotionally resonant. “Oubliette” has a certain je ne sai quoi with its use of secret French language messages encoded throughout the song. This hard-hitting progressive piece, sends audiences into a twisted Parisian silent film of a bygone era with its accompanying visualizer. The single comes off the group’s EP, The Red Garden, out everywhere June 18th via 604 Records. Reminiscent of acts like ARCHITECTS, SPIRITBOX, and early BRING ME THE HORIZON, the EP is produced, mixed and mastered by Jordan Chase and engineered by Colton Douglas at Oo-de-lally Recordings in British Columbia, Canada.

Stream “Oubliette” HERE: https://ffm.to/oubliette
Watch the visualizer Below:

“Oubliette” is a reflection of longing for a simpler time, a past version of oneself, or of one’s innocence. “Don’t we all wish to immortalize a younger version of ourselves in some way?” explains the band.

The song’s powerful, bursting chorus provides clarity that directly contrasts the heavier chaotic verse, making the track instantly replayable and anthemic. It explores themes of isolation, inner conflict and emotional release, mirroring the song’s title reference. “Oubliette” refers to, “a dungeon of forgetting”. The raw and melodic vocals performed by frontwoman Quinn Mitzel paired with the haunting harmonies between backing vocalist and bassist Aria Becker, enhances the tension between despair and resilience. This duality speaks to the band’s deeper message about acknowledging pain, yet refusing to stay buried in it. The tight musicianship and precise transitions reflect a group that’s not only technically skilled but also emotionally in tune with their message.

“Oubliette”, added to CBC Music’s Canadian Metal, follows The Red Garden’s first three singles, “Aurora”, “Hypothermia”, and “VHS” which represent an intense, raw, and emotional shift. The Red Garden is an evolution both in sound and storytelling. Leaning into themes of nostalgia, emotional distance, the EP is marked by its cold, isolating atmosphere and heavy, almost post-metal textures. It combines elements of melding introspective and poetic lyricism with soaring, anthemic instrumentation. Adding to a sense of grandeur and emotional release.

With still so many secrets and hidden truths to be revealed, The Red Garden feels like a defining moment for FREEZE THE FALL, showcasing their ability to craft deeply moving, high-impact music. It is a promising collection of songs that expands on their signature sound.

Despite only releasing their debut EP Thrones, last summer FREEZE THE FALL has built an incredibly passionate and dedicated fanbase, dubbed The Cold Front across Patreon, Discord and YouTube, which includes over 500 YouTube Reactions. Within the past month, FREEZE THE FALL received thousands of fan votes to have the group play Laketown Ranch which will see the trio share the stage with mega acts like NICKELBACK, THE GLORIOUS SONS and SAM ROBERTS BAND to name a few. In addition to this, “Hypothermia” was added to Revolver Magazine’s “6 Best New Songs”, adding to their already impressive accolades. Given the trio’s quick-rising success. it’s clear that they’ve got talent and stage-presence in spades.

FREEZE THE FALL Tour Dates:
Tickets & Info: https://freezethefallband.com/upcoming-shows
May 17 – Spring Fever @ The Biltmore – Vancouver, BC
June 14 – NXNE @ Handlebar – Toronto, ON
June 27 – EP Release Party @ The Fox Cabaret – Vancouver, BC
August TBD - Laketown Ranch - Lake Cowichan, BC

Follow Freeze the Fall Online:
Website: https://freezethefallband.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freeze.the.fall.band/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freeze_the_fall_band/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freeze_the_fall_band
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@freeze_the_fall_band/

Follow 604 Records Online:
Website: https://www.604records.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/604records
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/604recordsinc/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/604records

Gaahls WYRD Mystify with New Single "And the Now"

With "And the Now", Norwegian Grammy winners Gaahls Wyrd are revealing the beating heart of their upcoming second album. The third single spun from Braiding the Stories twist and turns black metal into something darker and dreamier.

Listen to And the Now below.

Braiding the Stories is out June 6th, 2025 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/gaahlswyrdbraidinggthestories

"And the Now" captures the essence of Gaahls Wyrd's latest musical evolution. The third single off Braiding the Stories draws us deeper into the mercurial frontman's self-appointed "White Lodge", which floats somewhere between dreams and the subconscious.

Anchored by Kristian "Gaahl" Espedal's dynamic vocals and Ole "Lust Kilman" Walaunet's stunning guitars, "And the Now" channels the energy of ‘80s and ‘90s gothic rock without sacrificing the esoteric intensity that defines Gaahls Wyrd. Recorded at Solslottet Studio in Bergen, Norway, and produced alongside Iver Sandøy (Enslaved, Wardruna), the song reinforces the band's commitment to  experimentation and depth. Once again, they're cinematic, vivid, and audaciously unclassifiable.

The striking cover art by visual artist Øivind Myksvoll (Wardruna, Trelldom) is just as mysterious and arresting as his work for The Humming Mountain. Look closely and you’ll find what appears to be hair (aka the veil) and the cosmos (crystallized wine from Gaahl’s collection). Indeed, the group’s signature horned figure lurks between the layers. For Gaahls WYRD, music, lyrics, concept, and art are synonymous. They’re designed to be experienced in their entirety and in unison. Braiding the Stories isn’t an obvious listen, but it gently (and sometimes maniacally) pulls at the listener. The sensation of the journey from opener “The Dream” to closing epic “Flowing Starlight” is quite unlike anything before. All hail Braiding the Stories!


Line-up:
Kristian Espedal «Gaahl» - All Voices
Ole Walaunet «Lust Kilman» - All Guitars
Andreas Salbu «Nekroman» - Bass
Kevin Kvåle «Spektre» - Drums

Production Credits:
Recorded at Solslottet Studio, Bergen, Norway.
Produced by Iver Sandøy & Gaahls WYRD.
Mixed & mastered by Iver Sandøy at Solslottet Studio, Bergen, Norway.

Cover Art:
Øivind Myksvoll

Biography:
Chris Dick

Pre-order & Pre-save: https://orcd.co/gaahlswyrdbraidinggthestories

Follow Gaahl's Wyrd:
Bandcamp: https://gaahlswyrd.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gaahlswyrd/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaahlswyrd
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7h8V7XHdJ3akShW3uFaZyn
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/gaahls-wyrd/1451373309
TIDAL: https://tidal.com/browse/artist/10911081
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/58388182

Available Formats:
Digital Download
CD Digipak
12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear & Black Marbled
12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Silver & Dark Green Marbled
12" Special "Hair-Filled" Vinyl
Cassette
Various Merch

SARCATOR Shreds with Two New Guitar Play-Throughs, Kicks Off EU Tour + Festival Run This Week

Swedish trash metal newcomers SARCATOR are now unleashing two freshly recorded guitar playthroughs for “The Deep Ends” as well as “Burning Choir," which are both taken from the band's recently released third studio album, 'Swarming Angels and Flies.' Both played by guitarist Mateo Tervonen and recorded at Studio-MT in Sweden, the playthroughs showcase the guitarist’s strong technicality and the band’s talent for both shredding and songwriting.  

The playthrough for “The Deep Ends” can be found Below.

Watch the playthrough for “Burning Choir” HERE.

'Swarming Angels & Flies' was released in January 2025 via Century Media Records and can be streamed, ordered, and downloaded HERE.

In addition, SARCATOR will be conquering Europe on an extensive run of live performances starting tomorrow, May 8, where they will first support 1349 on their “The Wolf & The King Eastern European Tour," alongside The Ruins Of Beverast and label-mates Vitriol. Additionally, the thrashers have various festivals lined up for 2025 across Europe, starting in June. The quartet will also be supporting Yoth Iria during their shows in Germany and Poland. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.

More shows TBA soon... stay tuned!

At a juvenile age of 14-20, Sarcator released their first demo tape, “Visions of Purgatory”, via the American label Redefining Darkness Records in 2019. Just two years later the quadrumvirate got nominated for best rock/metal album for the Swedish music award P3 Guld with their 2020’s self-titled debut release for the same label. After releasing their 2nd album, “Alkahest”, via Black Lion Records in 2022, Sarcator finally got a proper chance to play live, captivating crowds with their intense, blackened live shows.

With their current line-up fully committed to the band despite their young age (all members are between 19 and 25) it was time for them to record their third album, which still features previous guitarist Emil Eriksson. Shortly after signing a new worldwide deal with Century Media Records and heading out on a debut European tour supporting Hellripper and Cloak, Sarcator will be releasing 'Swarming Angels & Flies' on January 17, 2025.

This album marks the most intense, brutal and rawest creation yet for the band. It is a remarkably mature and sophisticated piece of work, from mercurial musicians who are only in their early 20’s, and still at the beginning of their creative journey. Across eight, grotesque and utterly venomous tracks, Sarcator have deftly blended the wide-eyed extremity of their debut album with the inspirational musicality of their second record “Alkahest”, while playing everything with more intensity than ever before. Both deliriously melodic and mercilessly brutal: “Swarming Angels & Flies” is the most dangerously potent record the Swedens have made to date. 

Sarcator explains about the record and its creation process, “We wanted to highlight the most aggressive and extreme parts of us, but we still wanted to work with dynamics, so you still have elements of classic rock and post-punk, which we started experimenting with on the last record. There is no question that it’s our most intense, brutal, and rawest creation yet - It's not really a genre album and we like to keep it that way."

With plenty of live activity in support of the upcoming album, Sarcator are already at the forefront of an emergent, highly determined new generation of Scandinavian extreme metal bands and ready to take the rest of the world by storm soon too.

Lineup:

Mateo Tervonen – Vocals, Guitar

Felix Lindkvist – Bass

Leo Buchalle – Guitar

Jesper Rosén – Drums

Formats:

CD Jewelcase (in O-Card) w/ 11 tracks

Ltd. Purple LP (300x copies!) w/ 8 tracks & 2-page LP insert

Black LP w/ 8 tracks & 2-page LP insert

CD Jewelcase (US Version) w/ 8 tracks

Links:

FACEBOOK 

INSTAGRAM

WEB SHOP

BANDCAMP

SPOTIFY

APPLE MUSIC

YOUTUBE

SCARDUST Announce New Studio Album ‘Souls’ Set For Release on July 18th, 2025 via Frontiers Music Srl

Today, the progressive symphonic metal band SCARDUST are thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated new studio album ‘Souls,’ out on July 18th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl. To celebrate the announcement, the band has released the first single from the upcoming album titled "Dazzling Darkness." The new single is accompanied by a music video, available to view below.

SCARDUST comments on the new album by saying:

’Souls’ is a deep personal journey for us, combining everything from intricate progressive elements to sweeping symphonic passages, anthemic choruses and epic choirs. This album is a milestone for the band. It contains the SCARDUST DNA while experimenting with different writing and composing methods, involving every single musician in the band, resulting in the creation of the next evolution of our sound and pushing the boundaries of what we can express through music.

 

“Thematically we’ve explored ideas of memory, belonging, loss, and the desire for connection, weaving in influences from different musical worlds, including orchestral, Mediterranean, and even Celtic sounds”, they added. “’Souls’ is our most ambitious album to date, incorporating SCARDUST’s signature technical musicianship, and featuring the Hellscore choir and a string quartet throughout the entire album plus guest appearances from some international top tier musicians like Ross Jennings (Haken), Ally Storch (Subway to Sally), a Turkish orchestra and the TLV orchestra. It’s bold, it’s emotional, and we hope it resonates deeply wherever it is heard.”

Watch the Music Video for “Dazzling Darkness" Below:

SCARDUST’s early years saw their debut EP, ‘Shadow’ (2015), position them as a promising newcomer, while their first full-length LP, ‘Sands of Time’ (2017), cemented them as one of the leading progressive metal bands in Israel. SCARDUST rapidly rose to the top of the local metal scene, selling out shows and opening for the likes of Symphony X, Therion, and Epica. They soon expanded their reach, touring overseas and playing festivals and headline shows in Germany, China, and the UK, while continuing to dominate stages at home.

 

Despite the challenges of Covid-19, 2020 saw the release of their sophomore album ‘Strangers’ through M-Theory Audio, accompanied by seven self-produced music videos. Described by Dead Rhetoric as “captivating from start to finish,” ‘Strangers’ introduced a unique concept album built on complementary song pairs, earning strong critical and fan acclaim.

 

2022 started on a high note with the visit of folk star Patty Gurdy, who joined SCARDUST for a live show in Israel and filmed the band’s most viewed video to date, "Concrete Cages." The song, featuring a duet between Noa and Patty, tells a tale of mankind’s loss of connection with nature - culminating in a shocking twist.

 

That summer, the band headlined multiple shows across Europe, performing to packed arenas at Wacken Open Air and Dong Open Air. Testament’s Steve Di Giorgio, upon hearing the band from backstage, ran out front and watched the entire set, later describing himself as “mesmerized.” The year ended with the release of the dramatic one-shot video "Evolution of the Disney Princess – But She’s METAL," where Noa weaves through a high-energy metal arrangement of beloved Disney Princess songs in just three and a half minutes.

 

2023 saw the release of 'Game of Now,' a cinematic piece set in a futuristic dystopian live show. SCARDUST played festivals and concerts across Europe, spent two weeks on tour with power metal legends Blind Guardian, and signed a major multi-album deal with Frontiers Records - marking a significant milestone in their career.

 

Following an extended period of recording, the end of 2024 brought the release of “My Haven,” a powerful music video exploring the concept of finding a safe space. Shortly after, they unveiled “RIP,” a haunting track accompanied by a visually striking video centered around the enigmatic figure of Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. SCARDUST continued working with filmmaker Lahav Levi, whose creative vision has played a key role in bringing their music to life on screen.

Pre-Order 'Souls' HERE

Alongside SCARDUST’s rise, Noa Gruman’s metal choir, Hellscore, has been gaining significant recognition. Known for their unique a cappella renditions of metal classics, they have collaborated with renowned artists and bands such as Epica, Therion, Amorphis, and Alestorm. Hellscore is also an integral part of SCARDUST’s sound, performing on all their albums and live shows.

 

Noa Gruman is also much in demand as a vocalist and the already-impressive list of her recent guest vocal appearances includes albums by Amorphis, Ayreon, Therion, Gloryhammer, Nino Helfrich and Orphaned Land.

 

If you are looking for the most fresh and innovative progressive album, ‘Souls’ is set to be a milestone for the genre.

SCARDUST are:

Noa Gruman – Vocals

Gal Gabriel Israel – Guitar

Aaron Friedland – Keyboards

Orr Didi – Bass

Yoav Weinberg – Drums