Sowulo Embrace the Night on New Album 'NIHT'

For the past 15 years, Faber Horbach has traced our connection with the sun through the music of Sowulo, but his upcoming concept album, NIHT,  journeys into darkness. Written while grieving the loss of both his father and stepfather, lead single "Āsteorfan" ("To Die") is a meditation that, while filled with sorrow, finds that death is not a final resting place, but a portal into spiritual awakening.    

Watch the video for "Āsteorfan" Below:


NIHT comes out August 29 on Season of Mist.
 

Pre-order
https://orcd.co/sowuloniht

Pre-save on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/6MwgfM76MaUNqyFL8ImNAo

“Āsteorfan” marks a threshold in NIHT's conceptual journey through the subconscious, cycles of decay and spiritual teachings of the Moon. The song is grounded in ancient instrumentation and ritualistic textures. Nyckelharpa and carnyx merge with deep percussion and throat singing, creating a sonic terrain that feels both ancestral and sacred. The minimal yet immersive arrangement evokes the inner descent into silence and stillness, offering a moment of surrender that echoes far beyond the self.

The music video for “Āsteorfan” was filmed and directed by Jasper van Gheluwe. Color grading was done by Micky Huijsmans

Sowulo is the evocative musical work of Faber Horbach, blending the spiritual philosophy of ancient Northern Europe with the continuous cycles of the universe.
 

Through the use of a wide array of historical instruments, melancholic melodies, and philosophical lyrics in Anglo-Saxon, Sowulo crafts an immersive sonic landscape that invites listeners to embark on an inner journey.
 

Weaving together the sounds of instruments like the Carnyx, Nyckelharpa, Celtic Harp, Shaman drums, Blow horns, Irish Bouzouki, Taglharpa, Lyre, Viola and various traditional vocal techniques, Sowulo shapes its distinctive sound.
 

The name "Sowulo," meaning "Sun" in Proto-Germanic, reflects the essence of the music. As we circle the sun, we feel the cyclical nature of life: day and night, the four seasons, birth and death, and the eternal dance between decay and renewal.


᛫ ᛇ ᚩ ᚹ ᚢ ᛚ ᚩ ᛫

Line-up:
Faber Horbach| Vocals, Throat singing, Nyckelharpa, Carnyx, Irish bouzouki, Percussion, Synths & VST
Micky Huijsmans| Vocals
Chloe Bakker| Celtic triplett harp
Maria Angeles Chaparro Fuentes| Viola
Rikke Linssen| Violin
Heleen de Jonge| Cello
Tessa van Genderen| Carnyx, Bukkehorn, Blowhorns
Bart van den Brink| Taglharpa
Tim Elfring| Small percussion

Production Credits:
Recorded at Lil’ Heaven Studios, Arnhem, The Netherlands
Produced by Faber Horbach
Recorded by Faver Horbach & Alain Kalender
Mixed by Fieke van den Hurk & Marie de Koning at DearWorld Studio and Studio MDK
Mastered by Erwin Maas at eMastering

Cover Art:
Album & artwork concept |Faber Horbach
Line artwork and graphic design development |Micky Huijsmans
Graphic design |Travis Smith

Photography:
Sannamari Sallmén
Aldwin Lehr

Pre-save & Pre-order: https://orcd.co/sowuloniht
Pre-save on Spotify: https://orcd.co/sowuloniht
 
Follow Sowulo:
Official website:https://www.sowulo.nl/home
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sowulo.music
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Sowulo
Bandcamp:https://sowulo.bandcamp.com/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/sowuloofficial
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/4BkdqpIEhl0tKZ5xpAo5pR
Songkick:https://www.songkick.com/artists/9118989-sowulo/calendar
DoomStar roster:https://doomstarbookings.com/artists/sowulo/

Morningstar Unleashes Anthemic New Single "Free"

"FREE" by MORNINGSTAR is a powerful anthem about breaking through fear, shedding the masks we wear and reclaiming your true self.  Born from the pages of Unleashed—Amber Swenor’s book on radical authenticity—this track was written as a rally cry for those on the path of self-liberation. With cinematic intensity, soaring vocals and unflinching emotion, "FREE" is the freedom anthem for those on the journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance.

MORNINGSTAR is a cinematic hard rock/melodic metal band from Madison, Wisconsin, blending symphonic metal, heavy riffs and theatrical storytelling into a genre-defying, emotionally charged sound. Known for high-energy shows, custom visuals and raw vocals, they deliver an immersive experience that keeps fans engaged.

Their music explores themes of mental health, societal challenges and radical authenticity, inviting listeners to connect with something deeper. From their breakout single “Bittersweet Lullaby” to the album Between Your World and Mine, and now the 2025 anthem “Free,”MORNINGSTAR crafts soaring songs that balance power and emotional depth.

Morningstar’s sound features heavy riffs, powerful vocals and emotionally charged lyrics, blending aggressive energy with melodic progression. Their music shifts between introspective moments and anthemic choruses, creating a dynamic that appeals to both rock and metal fans. Visually, their shows are equally compelling, with dramatic lighting, fog and cinematic theatrics that create an

immersive experience.

Their debut album Between Your World and Minewon Hard Rock/Metal Album of the Year at the 2023 Madison Area Music Awards. They’ve performed at major festivals and events including Brat Fest, Monster Hall Fest, Northwoods Rock Rally and will take the stage at Rock Fest 2025.

The band’s story began in small-town Wisconsin, where frontwoman Amber Swenor discovered metal at age 10 after stumbling upon a Metallica cassette in a park, a moment that opened her soul to the emotional appeal and expansive sound of metal. At that same time, in a different town, guitarist Brandon Pockat was growing up teaching himself to play guitar, inspired by his dad who was in a hair metal band in the 80s-90’s.

Years later, Amber answered a newspaper ad that had been posted by Brandon: “Seeking vocalist to start a band.” That message ignited the early version of what would become Morningstar. Soon after, Amber’s younger brother David Swenor joined on drums, and in 2018 the band officially launched as a power trio, becoming MORNINGSTAR.

Their debut single “Bittersweet Lullaby” gained traction for both its haunting sound and powerful message. “We wrote that song to reduce the stigma around mental health,” Amber shares. “We wanted people to know they’re not alone.”

In 2023, David stepped away to focus on family and the band welcomed Zach Walton on drums and Ricky Staley on bass, evolving into a dynamic four-piece. With new music on the way and momentum building, Morningstar continues to lead with vulnerability, vision and an unwavering belief in music as a force for healing and empowerment.



Beyond the stage, MORNINGSTAR is known for engaging with fans in person and online, fostering a fun, interactive community.

BAND MEMBERS

  • Singer: Amber Swenor (Swee-Nore)

  • Guitarist: Brandon Pockat (Puh-Qoit)

  • Drums: Zach Walton

  • Bass: Ricky Staley (Stay-Lee)

SCARDUST Shares New Single “Touch Of Life I - In Your Eyes (Feat. Ross Jennings)" + Live Music Video

Today, the progressive symphonic metal band SCARDUST are pleased to share their new single “Touch Of Life I – In Your Eyes (Feat. Ross Jennings),” from their highly anticipated new studio album 'Souls,' out July 18th, 2025 via Frontiers Music Srl. The single is accompanied by a special live performance video of the full three-part saga “Touch of Life,”offering fans an exclusive first look at the entire epic suite.

 

SCARDUST comments on the new single:

“'Touch Of Life' is a three-part musical trilogy that retells the story of Pygmalion - with a twist. It serves as an allegory for the life of an artist, or really anyone striving to become a better version of themselves. The song follows the greatest sculptor on Earth, who cannot find a woman he deems beautiful enough to be worthy of his craft - or his love. Eventually, he chooses to sculpt the most beautiful woman his imagination can conjure. He falls in love with his own creation and begs the gods to bring her to life. This is where the original myth ends - but for us, it’s just the beginning.

 

“We took the narrative in a new direction. As musical performers, we see ourselves as both the sculptor and the sculpture - constantly shaping ourselves, day by day, in pursuit of unreachable standards”, they continued. “It’s a process full of beauty, but also emotional weight. The full trilogy will be released as a live performance video on YouTube. In addition, the first part will be released as a single from the album.

 

“We’re especially excited to share this work with the incredible Ross Jennings (Haken), who performed in the original studio version and also joined us live - the very performance from which this video was recorded and filmed.”

Watch the Live Performance Video for "Touch of Life" 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 SCARDUST release of "Game of Now," a cinematic piece set in a futuristic dystopian live show, play festivals and concerts across Europe and join power metal legends Blind Guardian on tour. The year culminated in the signing of a major multi-album deal with Frontiers Records – heralding the release of the highly anticipated album 'Souls.'

December 2024 saw the release of "My Haven" from 'Souls' followed by "RIP," "Unreachable," and "Dazzling Darkness." With 2024 being taken up with writing and recording 'Souls,' it wasn’t until early 2025 that they were able to announce that Ross Jennings (Haken) was guesting on the album and was to join the band for a headline show resulting in the epic "Touch of Life" video.

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.”

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

LAINEY WILSON DEBUTS OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “SOMEWHERE OVER LAREDO”

 Lainey Wilson unveils the official music video for her critically acclaimed new single, “Somewhere Over Laredo,” today, directed by decorated filmmaker TK McKamy (Tim McGraw, Reba, Darius Rucker).

Falling through a rabbit hole of nostalgia, Wilson embarks on a surreal adventure inspired by the timeless magic of The Wizard of Oz. In pursuit of love lost, Wilson takes a trip down the yellow brick road through symbolic memories as a mysterious cowboy lures her deeper into a lucid dream. Watch and share Below.

Continuing to receive overwhelming attention from fans and critics alike, “Somewhere Over Laredo” was the most added song at country radio at impact, garnered over 1.16 million streams across platforms in its first 24 hours (Wilson’s biggest first day of streaming to date) and earned praise from CBS Mornings, Rolling Stone and Billboard, the latter of which called it “one of her most commanding, dynamic vocal performances to date, crescendo-ing from a soft-focus, tender vocal, before gradually reaching into her upper register for powerful moments that heighten the song’s emotional acuity.”

The song is from the upcoming deluxe version of Wilson’s award-winning album, Whirlwind, set for release August 22 via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville in celebration of the record’s one-year anniversary (pre-order/pre-save/pre-add here). In addition to Whirlwind’s original 14 songs, the new extended edition will feature five additional tracks: “Somewhere Over Laredo,” “Bell Bottoms Up,” “King Ranch, King George, King James,” “Yesterday, All Day, Every Day” and “Peace, Love, and Cowboys.”

The release adds to yet another triumphant year for the 16x ACM, 9x CMA and Grammy Award-winning artist, who won four awards at the 60th Annual ACM Awards earlier this spring: Entertainer of the Year (her second consecutive win), Female Artist of the Year (her third consecutive win), Album of the Year (Whirlwind) and Artist-Songwriter of the Year. During the awards ceremony, she also debuted new song, “Trailblazer,” with Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert, which she wrote with Lambert and Brandy Clark.

Additionally, Wilson is amid her nearly sold-out Whirlwind World Tour, which includes stops at New York’s Madison Square Garden, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum, Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Austin’s Moody Center and Denver’s Ball Arena among many others. The upcoming dates follow the tour’s first leg—a completely sold-out extensive run across the U.K and Europe earlier this year. See below for the complete tour itinerary, full details can be found at www.laineywilson.com/tour.

LAINEY WILSON CONFIRMED TOUR DATES
June 20—Wildwood, NJ—Barefoot Country Music Fest
June 26—Milwaukee, WI—Summerfest
June 27—Cadott, WI—Country Fest
July 10—Ottawa, ON—Ottawa Bluesfest
July 12—Cavendish, PEI—Cavendish Beach Music Festival
August 14—Phoenix, AZ—Footprint Center*
August 15—Albuquerque, NM—Isleta Amphitheater*
August 16—Denver, CO—Ball Arena*
August 21—Bend, OR—Hayden Homes Amphitheater*
August 22—Sacramento, CA—Golden 1 Center*
August 23—Los Angeles, CA—Kia Forum*
August 28—Calgary, AB—Scotiabank Saddledome*
August 29—Edmonton, AB—Rogers Place*
August 30—Saskatoon, SK—SaskTel Centre*
September 11—Baton Rouge, LA—Raising Cane’s River Center†
September 12—Baton Rouge, LA—Raising Cane’s River Center†
September 13—Bossier City, LA—Brookshire Grocery Arena†
September 18—Austin, TX—Moody Center‡
September 19—Fort Worth, TX—Dickies Arena‡
September 20—Houston, TX—The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presented by Huntsman ‡
September 25—Toronto, ON—Budweiser Stage§
September 26—Clarkston, MI—Pine Knob Music Theatre§
September 27—Grand Rapids, MI—Van Andel Arena§
October 2—Nashville, TN—Bridgestone Arena||
October 3—Noblesville, IN—Ruoff Music Center§
October 4—Cleveland, OH—Blossom Music Center§
October 9—Columbia, MD—Merriweather Post Pavilion§
October 10—New York, NY—Madison Square Garden§
October 11—Mansfield, MA—Xfinity Center§
October 16—St. Louis, MO—Hollywood Casio Amphitheatre||
October 17—Rosemont, IL—Allstate Arena||
October 18—Saint Paul, MN—Xcel Energy Center||
October 24—Knoxville, TN—Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center#
October 25—Charlotte, NC—Spectrum Center#
November 7—Tampa, FL—Amalie Arena#
November 8—Orlando, FL—Kia Center#

*with special guests ERNEST and Kaitlin Butts
†with special guests ERNEST and Maddox Batson
‡with special guests Muscadine Bloodline and Drake Milligan
§with special guests Muscadine Bloodline and Lauren Watkins
||with special guests Muscadine Bloodline and Maddox Batson
#with special guests ERNEST and Drake Milligan


KEEP UP WITH LAINEY WILSON
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X | FACEBOOK 

Morgan Wallen’s ‘I’m The Problem Tour’ Kicks Off in Houston

Morgan Wallen kicked off the first-of-20 stops on his 2025 I’m The Problem Tour this weekend at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Paying homage to the Lonestar state, Wallen enlisted former Houston Texans Hall of Fame wide receiver Andre Johnson and beloved Houston salesman Mattress Mack joined for his fan-favorite walk out moment on night one – the raucous “Broadway Girls” transitioning into I’m The Problem’s seventh track, “Interlude,” blaring from the speakers. On the second night, rapper Drake and former Houston Astros pitcher Roger Clemens joined for the walkout. 
 
Taking in the crowd after singing his Platinum-certified “Ain’t That Some” off One Thing At A Time, and “Kick Myself” off his recently-released album, I’m The Problem, Wallen addressed his fans, expressing his gratitude to be back on the road: “I appreciate you choosing to spend your Friday night here with me at NRG Stadium. Before I get any further, I’d just like to say shout out to Andre Johnson and Mattress Mack for doing my walk out with me – a couple of Houston legends, and I appreciate that. I appreciate you guys for giving me such a warm welcome, I can already tell we’re going to have a good time.”
 
Introducing his next song “I Got Better,” which impacts country radio on Monday, June 23, Wallen added, “This point in the show is usually where I play the album track, the tour title, but we decided to switch it up. I’m gonna play one of my most personal songs, and one of the songs that means the most to me right now off this new record, and I hope you all like it too.”
 
Later in his set, taking B-stage toward the back of the venue for stripped-back acoustic performances of “Cover Me Up,” “I’m A Little Crazy” and “Sand In My Boots,” Wallen explained the importance of seeing as many fans close-up as he can, despite the size of the stadiums he now plays: “We started out at bars in the afternoons, and we worked our way up to what it is now, and that still blows my mind a little bit. I thought about everything that it’s taken to get to this moment right here, and it wouldn’t be possible without you guys and your support – it means a lot to me, I know it means a lot to my team. 
 
“One thing that I miss about playing those smaller places is I could go out on stage every night, and I could pretty much look at every single person in the eyes. That’s not possible now, but this is my best attempt at getting a little bit closer to you, so I want to sing a few songs back here, acoustic-style.”
 
During his jaunt back to the main stage, Wallen took a moment to honor his band members on screen – Mark “Taco” Annino on drums; Luke Rice on bass/guitar; Dominic Frost and Tyler Tomlinson on guitar/BGV; Chris Gladden on aux/keys; and Tony Aichele on aux/guitar/pedal steel – as their names and hometowns flashed across the LEDs.
 
By the time the encore arrived, Wallen re-emerged onto the stage donning an Astros’ Nolan Ryan jersey, one final tribute to the city. Rolling through two of his biggest hits to-date – 16-week Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 “Last Night” and six week Hot 100 No. 1 “I Had Some Help” – Wallen concluded with his breakthrough 2018 hit, “The Way I Talk,” thanking his fans and signing autographs before leaving.
 
Wallen’s 25 song setlist included a mix of hits both new and old both nights. Wetzel joined Wallen on-stage halfway through each set for a duet of 5x-Platium “Up Down.” Half of the songs throughout the night hailed from his recently released album, I’m The Problem, which has spent five weeks-and-counting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
 
The tour is named after Wallen’s fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, released in May, which debuted at No. 1 across seven countries. In the U.S., Wallen broke his own record for most simultaneous entries in Billboard Hot 100 history, with 37 songs charting at once upon its release. 
 
As part of Wallen’s ‘2025 Tour Give Back’ initiative, Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF) is saying thank you to the communities that have welcomed Wallen in with open arms by supporting music programs in touring cities. To commemorate his tour kick off, Wallen donated musical instruments to two local Houston schools: James Madison High School and S.P. Waltrip High School. Wallen donates $3 of every ticket sold to the Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF). MWF supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music. Learn more at www.MorganWallenFoundation.org.
 
Wallen’s 2025 I’m The Problem Tour includes stops in Seattle, Washington; Foxborough, Massachusetts; Toronto, Ontario and more. With a second stop 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. 

For tickets to remaining dates, visit MorganWallen.com.

Photo Credit: Matt Paskert

Morgan Wallen 2025 I’m The Problem Tour Remaining Dates:
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 “one of the biggest stars in the music world right now” and The New Yorker adding “[he’s] popular on a scale that seems to circumvent genre entirely.” With 18 No. 1 singles at Country radio, 19 Billboard Music Awards to-date, more than 190 weeks spent atop Billboard’sTop Country Albums chart (the most in country music history), the highest selling country tour under his belt and more, Wallen has propelled country music to a global level in less than five years. 
 
Wallen’s fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, available now via Big Loud / Mercury, debuted at No. 1 globally across seven countries; while his preceding albums – Dangerous: The Double Album and One Thing At A Time – have remained in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart for more than 100 weeks each, making him the first artist ever to achieve that feat. I’m The Problem – which Hits Daily Double observes is “a 37-song cycle of self-reckoning” – has already yielded three No. 1’s at Country radio, including the title track, which has remained at No. 1 for eight weeks. Wallen also broke his own record for the most simultaneous entries in Billboard Hot 100 History, with 37 songs charting on release week.
 
Wallen’s 20-stadium-show 2025 I’m the Problem Tour kicked off on June 20 in Houston, Texas. Coupled with his personally-curated, multi-genre Sand In My Boots Music Festival in Gulf Shores, Alabama and album release show at The Roundhouse in London in May, these 22 shows are the only place to see the superstar this year.
 
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.

Koe Wetzel Celebrates Grand Opening of Riot Room Houston

Fresh off electrifying a sold-out crowd on the first of two nights as direct support on Morgan Wallen’s I’m The Problem Tour at Houston’s NRG Stadium, Texas native Koe Wetzel kept the party rolling with the highly anticipated grand opening of Koe Wetzel’s Riot Room Houston on Friday, June 20.
 
Following the groundbreaking success of the original Riot Room in Fort Worth, the Houston outpost levels up the concept with an even more immersive, unapologetically bold experience. Designed to be bigger, rowdier and more creative, the 8,000 square-foot, two-story venue sits in the heart of Midtown and can host nearly 700 guests.
 
True to Wetzel’s reputation for doing things his own way, Riot Room Houston pushes the limits with standout features including:

  • A full-sized pontoon boat bringing that “on the lake” vibe straight into the club

  • A DJ booth set in a full-size Ford pickup engine bay

  • A custom-built jail cell and bucking bull, both perfect for photo ops

  • A vintage pickup truck suspended on the building’s exterior

  • Wetzel’s lyrics in neon lighting up the space

  • Photos and memorabilia that bring fans closer to the music and the man behind it

The venue also boasts an upgraded kitchen with a brand-new menu, including Houston-exclusive items that make this Riot Room unlike any other.
 
Following the home-state shows with Wallen, Wetzel is next slated to play several prominent festival sets throughout the summer in addition to joining HARDY’s Jim Bob World Tour later this year.
 
For more information, visit KoeWetzelsRiotRoom.com and KoeWetzelMusic.com. Follow on Instagram and Facebook @KoeWetzelMusic, TikTok @Koe_Wetzel and Twitter/X @KoeWetzel. 

Credit Motion Theory Media

About Koe Wetzel
Koe Wetzel never met a genre wall he couldn’t tear down. The Texas singer-songwriter has earned a rabid audience for his songs that mix country, rock, hip-hop and even Nineties grunge. With his defining fifth studio album, 9 Lives, released in 2024 via Columbia Records, Wetzel earned recognition on several major year-end best-of lists, including Rolling Stone, Billboard, the Tennessean and more, with the Los Angeles Times naming lead single “High Road” (feat. Jessie Murph) as the No. 8 best song of 2024 across all genres. The single not only marked Wetzel’s debut at Country radio, it also held the No. 1 spot for five weeks and became his fastest song to reach the RIAA Platinum milestone to date. Previously, his 2016 album Noise Complaint endeared him to fans with its no-holds-barred lyrics about drunken nights, broken hearts and stints in jail, and included the Gold-certified hits “Love” (feat. Parker McCollum), “Something to Talk About” plus the infamous “February 28, 2016.” Wetzel’s 2020 major label debut, Sellout, only furthered his legend with the Platinum-certified “Drunk Driving” and “Good Die Young” plus the Gold-certified “Kuntry & Wistern.” The 2022 follow-up, Hell Paso, hit No. 3 on Billboard’s Country Albums and spawned hits on both the country and rock charts, including the Gold-certified “Creeps” and “Cabo.” To date, Wetzel has amassed 3.7 billion total streams and has created a genuine experience with his live concerts, which he describes as “total chaos.” Wetzel performed for well over 200,000 fans across the U.S. in Europe in 2024, with over 96% of all headline tickets sold, in addition to playing prominent festival sets and opening for Morgan Wallen on the superstar’s One Night at a Time Stadium Tour, while 2025 sees him again embark on a year of heavy touring both as a headliner and alongside Wallen and HARDY.

Whiskey Myers Return to the Road with New Band Baby & Top 40 Rock Single

Genre-defying band Whiskey Myers is officially back on the road tonight, June 23, picking up right where they left off after a brief hiatus in the What We Were Born To Do Tour as guitarist John Jeffers welcomed his second baby boy, with Ozzy Jak Jeffers joining the band family on June 18.
 
“There’s been a whole wide world out here waiting for you, my son! We love you,” shared Jeffers alongside the news of baby Ozzy’s arrival. “I know there was some confusion on the cancellations/postponed shows this week. Thank you guys for bearing with us!”
 
The return to touring also coincides with the band’s latest single, “Time Bomb,” exploding into the Top 40 of the Active Rock chart, further solidifying Whiskey Myers’ growing crossover appeal. Having arrived earlier this year as the first preview of Whomp Whack Thunder, their highly anticipated seventh studio album set to release Sept. 26 via the band’s own Wiggy Thump Records, the song epitomizes the project as a whole in channeling the spirit of classic rock through a modern Southern lens. the album is available to pre-order/pre-save HERE.
 
Ahead of the fall release, fans can catch early previews of the new music with the What We Were Born To Do Tour, resuming tonight and hitting cities across the U.S. throughout the summer. Whiskey Myers also co-headlines 14 dates of the Live in 25 Tour with Tedeschi Trucks Band later this year in addition to headlining their own personally curated Moon Crush “Whiskey Moon” music vacation taking over Miramar Beach, Fla. Nov. 7-9.
 
For more information, visit whiskeymyers.com and follow on social media @WhiskeyMyers.

Upcoming Whiskey Myers Tour Dates
What We Were Born To Do Tour
June 23  ||  Pittsburgh, Pa.  ||  Stage AE
June 25  ||  Johnson City, Tenn.  ||  Freedom Hall Civic Center
June 26  ||  Evansville, Ind.  ||  Ford Center
July 12  ||  Kansas City, Mo.  ||  Starlight Theater
July 17  ||  Macon, Ga.  || Atrium Health Amphitheater
July 18  ||  Birmingham, Ala.  ||  Coca-Cola Amphitheater
July 19  ||  Nashville, Tenn.  ||  Ascend Amphitheater
July 20  ||  Salem, Va.  ||  Salem Civic Center
July 22  ||  Manteo, N.C.  ||  Roanoke Island Festival Park
July 24  ||  Charlotte, N.C.  ||  Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
July 25  ||  Virginia Beach, Va.  ||  Virginia Beach Dome
July 26  ||  Richmond, Va.  ||  Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront
July 27  ||  Cherokee, N.C.  ||  Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Aug. 16  ||  Highland, Calif.  ||  Yaamava' Theater
Aug. 27  ||  Toledo, Ohio  ||  Toledo Zoo & Aquarium – Amphitheater
Sept. 18  ||  Jonesboro, Ark.  ||  First National Bank Arena
Sept. 19  ||  Alexandria, La.  ||  Laborde Earles Coliseum
Sept. 20  ||  Brandon, Miss.  ||  Brandon Amphitheater
Sept. 25  ||  Austin, Texas  ||  Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Greenway
Sept. 26  ||  Oklahoma City, Okla.  ||  Paycom Center
Sept. 27  ||  The Woodlands, Texas. ||  The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Oct. 9  ||  Chattanooga, Tenn.  ||  Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium
Oct. 10  ||  Greensboro, N.C.  ||  White Oak Amphitheatre at Greensboro Coliseum Complex

Live in 25 Tour with Tedeschi Trucks Band
Aug. 7  ||  Bend, Ore.  ||  Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Aug. 8  ||  Bend, Ore.  ||  Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Aug. 9  ||  Quincy, Wash.  ||  The Gorge Amphitheatre
Aug. 12  ||  Berkeley, Calif.  ||  The Greek Theatre at UC Berkeley
Aug. 13  ||  Los Angeles, Calif.  ||  The Greek Theatre
Aug. 15  ||  Stateline, Nev.  ||  Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys
Aug. 18  ||  Phoenix, Ariz.  ||  Arizona Financial Theatre
Aug. 19  ||  Albuquerque, N.M.  ||  Isleta Amphitheater
Aug. 23  ||  Noblesville, Ind.  ||  Ruoff Music Center
Aug. 24  ||  St. Louis, Mo.  ||  Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Aug. 26  ||  Cincinnati, Ohio  ||  Riverbend Music Center
Aug. 28  ||  Syracuse, N.Y.  ||  Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview
Aug. 29  ||  Vienna, Va.  ||  Wolf Trap
Aug. 30  ||  Vienna, Va.  ||  Wolf Trap
Sept. 1  ||  Gilford, N.H.  ||  BankNH Pavilion
 
Additional Dates
June 27  ||  South Greenfield, Mo.  ||  Baker-Spain Stampede
June 28  ||  Carrolton, Texas  ||  LIV Golf Dallas
Oct. 11  ||  North Charleston. S.C.  ||  Riverfront Revival Music Festival
Nov. 7-9  ||  Miramar Beach, Fla.  ||  Moon Crush “Whiskey Moon”

Mawiza Release Unplugged Version of "Mamüll Reke"

Summoning thunderous tribal rhythms and indigenous instruments within the fields of modern metal has earned Mawiza recognition from the Chilean Grammys and respected elders like Mercyful Fate, Mastodon and Slipknot. But this band of modern day warriors are still a force of nature when paired down to their rawest form. 

Today, Mawiza are releasing an unplugged version of the latest single off the band's upcoming third album ÜL. Though stripped bare, "Mamüll Reke" still stands in towering defense of their ancestral land.   

"Like other songs from ÜL, 'Mamüll Reke' was written in a way that everything could be reduced to melody and kültxung, the Mapuche drum", says Mawiza's vocalist and guitarist Awka. "The melody and lyrics are strong enough to guide the song on their own".      

Watch the video for the unplugged version of "Mamüll Reke" below:

ÜL comes out July 18 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/mawizaul

Hear Mawiza perform "Mamüll Reke" and other defiant anthems from ÜLthis summer when they tour Europe this summer alongside fellow Chilean metalheads Ater. 

Can't wait to chant along to ÜL? Hear the whole album a week before it comes out by RSVPing for the band's upcoming Bandcamp Listening Party

ÜL Bandcamp Listening Party
Thursday, July 10 @ 1 pm Eastern Time

RSVP
https://mawizakvlt.bandcamp.com/live/l-listening-party

Lineup
Awka - Lead vocals & rhythm guitar
Karü - Lead guitar & backing vocals
Zewü - Bass & backing vocals
Txalkan - Drums & percussion

Guest musicians
Fabiola Hidalgo (Liquen) contributes vocals to "Wingkawnoam", "Pinhza Ñi pewma", "Ngulutu" and "Mamüll reke"

Joe Duplantier (Gojira) contributes vocals to "Ti Inan Paw-Pawkan"

Recording Studio
Estudio del Sur in Chile

Producer
Pancho Arenas

Sound & Mixing Engineer
Pancho Arenas

Mastering Studio
West West Side Music

Mastering Engineer
Alan Douches

Cover Art
Kata Ulloa
 

Booking information
 Europe: juan@thatmusicagency.com
 Rest of the World: unai@cowboymusic.agency

Pre-order & Pre-save
https://orcd.co/mawizaul
 
Follow Mawiza
Bandcamp: https://mawizakvlt.bandcamp.com
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mawizakvlt
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/mawizakvlt
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mawizakvlt
Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oJP24bXA2fbdVmNGNmCtt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mawizakvlt
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mawiza/1653435953

LIONS AT THE GATE To Support DEATH ANGEL On North American Tour

Ferocious metal upstarts LIONS AT THE GATE will hit the road this fall as part of DEATH ANGEL’s highly anticipated North American tour. The 17-date run kicks off November 26 in Denver, CO, and concludes December 17 in Los Angeles, CA, promising an unforgettable lineup of thrash, groove, and sonic brutality.

Joining the tour as direct support is the explosive TOXIC HOLOCAUST, with rising thrashers MISFIRE opening each night. When LIONS AT THE GATE take the stage, they'll bring their signature fusion of aggressive grooves, melodic hooks, and impassioned intensity to fans across the country.

“Excited and honored to support the legendary Bay Area metal band Death Angel this Winter! Their albums Frolic Through The Park and Act III were worn thin on my record player. Looking forward to seeing the lion pride and making new friends!” - Cristian Machado 

FULL TOUR DATES:

11/26 – Denver, CO – Oriental Theater
11/28 – Joliet, IL – The Forge
11/29 – Davenport, IA – Capitol Theater
11/30 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theater
12/2 – Indianapolis, IN – Vogue
12/3 – Pittsburgh, PA – Mr Smalls Theater
12/4 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Monarch
12/5 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
12/6 – Albany, NY – Empire Live
12/7 – Reading, PA – Reverb
12/10 – Dallas, TX – Southside Ballroom
12/11 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Midtown
12/12 – Corpus Christi, TX – House of Rock
12/13 – San Antonio, TX – Vibes
12/15 – Albuquerque, NM – Sunshine Theater
12/16 – Tucson, AZ – 191 Toole
12/17 – Los Angeles, CA – The Belasco

General public on-sale begins Friday, June 27 at 10 AM local time. Additional presale opportunities will roll out earlier in the week. Tickets will be available HERE.

About LIONS AT THE GATE:

Nestled in the creative heart of Los Angeles, LIONS AT THE GATE features an ensemble of seasoned musicians, including vocalist Cristian Machado, formerly of ILL NIÑO, alongside guitarists Diego Verduzco and Ahrue Luster, whose past stints with ILL NIÑO and MACHINE HEAD have seasoned their artistry. They are joined by bassist Stephen Brewer, previously of WESTFIELD MASSACRE, and drummer Josh Cuadra. Together, they burst onto the music scene with their electrifying debut single "Not Even Human," which rocketed to #3 on the Apple Metal charts, followed by "Bed of Nails," celebrated for its widespread acclaim on Billboard. Their debut album, The Excuses We Cannot Make, launched in August 2023, marking a bold new chapter and debuting on Billboard's Top 100, Top New Artists, and Heatseekers charts. LIONS AT THE GATE have shared stages with icons like LACUNA COIL and NITA STRAUSS and look forward to igniting the crowds at Inkcarceration 2024.

As they leave their past projects behind, these artists fully embrace their creative freedom and fresh inspiration. Machado's vocals are at their peak, masterfully blending grace and aggression, while the expert instrumentation of Verduzco, Luster, Brewer and Cuadra add dynamic layers and enhance the emotional impact of each note. The band maintains its signature heavy dynamics, anchored by powerful choruses that perfectly complement the robust rhythms of their music.

Connect with LIONS AT THE GATE:

Official Website
Instagram
Youtube
Tiktok
Twitch
Facebook
Twitter
Spotify
Apple Music
Deezer
Amazon Music
Tidal

Charlie Kendall’s METALSHOP is proud to announce the addition of WAKT, 106.1, Toledo, OH Along with Six New Internet Radio Stations

Charlie Kendall’s METALSHOP is proud to announce the addition of WAKT, 106.1, Toledo, OH! METALSHOP also welcomes Metalshop101Radio.online, SavageRadioRocks.com, TheRockAltar.com, AlienRocksRadio.com and MusicFromThe412.com to our menagerie of Metalheads!

 

Fans can listen to any new episode on demand, whenever they want, on the BraveWords.com YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@BraveWords666

 

Charlie Kendall’s METALSHOP has returned! Between 1984 and 1995, The original METALSHOP led the metal revolution with this iconic program across more than 250 stations. We now deliver fresh weekly shows to an audience that revels in the music of the untamed and youthful. Charlie Kendall’s METALSHOP combines the show’s vintage feature segments with fresh content, music from then and now, new and classic interviews with hard rock heroes, and that same voice and attitude that made the program a cornerstone of hard rock/metal culture.
 
METALSHOP started online and solidified our writing and production capabilities. We have produced over 100 brand new world-class programs and are now into full syndication. Interview highlights include the first major interview with any member of Aerosmith after they retired from touring, full specials on Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell concert, Slash, John Bush, Metal in the movies, Nicko McBrain’s retirement, Lzzy Hale, Cassandra Carson, Blackie Lawless, Marc Labelle and more!

From 1984 to 1995, Charlie Kendall was a driving force of the metal revolution as he hosted this iconic program on over 250 stations. Now, he’s teamed with Producers Corey Harker and Chris Akin to deliver all-new shows to a worldwide audience that celebrates and enjoys the music of the wild and the young.

 

Charlie Kendall’s METALSHOP combines the show’s vintage feature segments with fresh content, music from then and now, new and classic interviews with hard rock heroes, and that same voice and attitude that made the program a cornerstone of that culture.

 

“I’ve thought about it for years,” Kendall says, “and I’ve finally found the right fit and the right people to make it happen. It’s come full circle – and METALSHOP is back.”

 

Charlie Kendall’s METALSHOP - Syndication is available – interested parties please email metalshop@charliekendall.com
 

Website - www.charliekendall.com/metalshop

Facebook - www.facebook.com/CKMetalshop/

YouTube - youtube.com/@CharlieKendall-Metalshop

Facebook Group - m.facebook.com/groups/1383332095308722/

IG - www.instagram.com/ckmetalshop

X - twitter.com/CKMetalshop

mixcloud - www.mixcloud.com/METALSHOP/

Merch - bodythredz.com/product-category/the-metalshop-collection/

UNÉN Announces Debut Album 'Forever Winter' Set for Release on August 29, 2025 via Frontiers Music Srl

Finnish melodic metal band UNÉN IS thrilled to announce the release of their debut album, 'Forever Winter,' set for release on August 29, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl.

The track “Black Heart” is available today, along with an accompanying official video.

Vocalist Stina Girs talked about writing the new song:

 

“'Black Heart' was the first song I was given to shape with lyrics and vocal melodies, and it instantly resonated with me. The title had been echoing in my mind for a while, and the moment I heard the music, I knew - this was it. The song dives deep into the darkness of a toxic relationship, one ruled by manipulation and control at the hands of a narcissist. But at its core, the song is about reclaiming your strength. It’s the breaking point - the moment you rise, take back your power, and refuse to be broken”.

Talking about the album, the band said,

“'Forever Winter' began to take shape in the spring of 2023, marking a real turning point for us with the arrival of our lead vocalist, Stina Girs. At the time, we had a handful of instrumental tracks in progress - including an early version of what would become 'Black Heart' - but when Stina started working on the material, her passion and emotional depth brought everything to life.

“The creative energy between us took off, and with multiple composers in the band, the songs came together quickly. Musically, the album moves through driving melodic rock, cinematic progressive metal, and moments of haunting stillness - tied together by Stina’s powerful, expressive voice”, they added.

UNÉN continued:

“Lyrically, 'Forever Winter' is deeply personal. Stina poured her own lived experiences into every song, transforming pain into melody and storytelling. Each track is a chapter in a journey of catharsis, resilience, and rebirth. Over the following year, we focused on shaping the sound and capturing the heart of the album - an intense but rewarding process that led to our signing with Frontiers Music, who believed in our vision from the beginning. Now, 'Forever Winter' is ready to meet the world, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve created.”

Watch the Music Video for “Black Heart" Below:

Hailing from Helsinki, Finland, UNÉN is a modern melodic metal band whose music also incorporates elements ranging from progressive to pop, blending intensity with sensitivity in its sound.

 

UNÉN was originally founded in late 2021, laying the foundation for the band's musical style. In 2022, UNÉN focused on composing and refining production independently, resulting in the release of two self-published tracks. However, after a rollercoaster year, there was a need to change the lineup to accelerate production.

 

The word "UNÉN" was derived from the band's original idea that lyrics would be based on the world of dreams. However, due to lineup changes, this concept took a different direction, but the name remained.

 

At the beginning of 2023, there was a shift in UNÉN's lineup due to the change of lead singer, which notably accelerated all activities. The band members coming together was a series of fortunate coincidences and determined searches, including encounters with old acquaintances. The right people had found each other.

 

In May 2023, UNÉN released their first single, “Made Of Stone (cover)” with new lead singer Stina Girs, who rose to national attention after placing 5th in the Finnish TV show “Idols” in 2010. She later signed a solo contract with Sony Finland, releasing two Finnish-language albums.

Inspired by the sound of Evanescence, the current lineup of UNÉN showcases their unique identity and creative direction. The band has since focused solely on original compositions, with each member contributing equally to the creative process. Bound together by their passion for music, despite having completely different day jobs, UNÉN stands out for its collaborative spirit and emotionally rich sound.

Pre-Order 'Forever Winter' HERE

UNÉN are:

Stina Girs - vocals

Kimmo Pitkänen - guitars

Petteri Sinervä - keyboards

Harri Moilanen - guitars

Tomi Kallava - bass

Timo Larjo - drums

Stripping the Pistol Release New Single "Sunshine in the Rain" via TLG|ZOID ​    

Chicago’s own Stripping the Pistol have unveiled their new single, “Sunshine in the Rain,” out now via TLG|ZOID and distributed by Virgin Music Group. The emotionally resonant track is accompanied by a lyric video and marks the band’s fifth single, continuing their tradition of rule-breaking, straight-in-your-face rock 'n' roll.

 

In a remarkable endorsement, the late Roy Thomas Baker—iconic producer behind Queen, The Cars, and Journey—was an outspoken fan of the song. He compared it to “music the greats made in the 1970s,” noting that while it’s not retro in sound, “it’s audacious enough to try and reach those heights.”

 

The band shares:

"In a bleak world people often don’t see the sunshine through the rain.   For many music can provide the sunshine.  We believe this song can do that for some of those listeners.   While it has a feel of a ballad, we weave in some heavy elements.  The ying and yang works. The dual vocals represent the two extremes of life.  We believe this is a special song the like of which isn’t heard today.   The late great Roy Thomas Baker who produced all the amazing Queen records was a huge fan of the song.  He claimed it sounded like music the greats made in the 1970s.  Not that it is a 1970s inspired track, but that it is audacious enough to try and reach those heights."

 

This band is about straight-in-your-face rock n’ roll. Stripping the Pistol formed with the intention of breaking the rules. The Chicago band blends aggression with melody. The seamless interplay of the dueling vocalists is balanced by the precision, power, and energy of the music.

 

WATCH the Lyric Video for "Sunshine in the Rain" now and stream the single on all digital platforms.

STREAM "Sunshine in the Rain"

https://ffm.to/stp-sunshineintherain

For More Information Please Visit:

Instagram

X

Facebook

ALYXX SET THE WORLD ABLAZE WITH THEIR DEBUT EP “EMBERWAKE”

Alternative metal juggernaut ALYXX erupts onto the global stage with the release of their highly anticipated debut EP, EMBERWAKE — available now on all streaming platforms.



Forged in the crucible of loss, rage, and transformation, EMBERWAKE is an audio inferno that delivers a visceral blend of crushing riffs, cinematic soundscapes, and hauntingly melodic vocals. Each song is a chapter in a greater narrative — a journey through ruin, resistance, and rebirth — all wrapped in a sonic experience that blurs the lines between metal, industrial, and dark alternative rock.

Meet ALYXX, a singer, songwriter, and pianist hailing from the musical hub of New York, has captivated audiences with her unique blend of classical finesse and rock-infused energy. Born and raised in a world of classical music, ALYXX’supbringing laid the foundation for her exceptional talent and artistry. However, it was her burning desire to break free from tradition and explore the electrifying realm of rock that truly defined her musical journey.

From an early age, ALYXX knew that her destiny lay in the realm of music. Her passion for singing led her to hone her vocal prowess, and her dedication to the piano allowed her to master its melodic intricacies. Drawing inspiration from iconic rock legends and the raw emotion they conveyed, she embarked on a path that would transform her into the rock sensation she is today.

ALYXX’s rise to prominence began with her electrifying live performances, where her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence left audiences awe-struck. Her talent caught the attention of music enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, leading to invitations to perform at prestigious events such as the Inkcarceration Music Festival and Blue Ridge Rock Festival. With each performance, ALYXX’s star continued to rise, and her fan base grew exponentially, reaching fans across the globe who resonated with her heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies.

As a singer-songwriter, ALYXX’s compositions are a reflection of her personal experiences, infused with raw emotions and honest storytelling. Her ability to craft catchy hooks and captivating melodies, combined with her evocative lyrics, has garnered critical acclaim and established her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.



With her classical background and rock sensibility, ALYXX has carved a unique musical niche that sets her apart from her peers. Her unwavering dedication to her craft, coupled with her undeniable talent, has propelled her to great heights, and there’s no doubt that her journey has only just begun. As ALYXX continues to captivate audiences with her electrifying performances and heartfelt music, she remains an artist to watch, destined to leave an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond! 

CONNECT WITH ALYXX

The Dead Daisies Score Top 10 Hit on Billboard Blues Chart with "Lookin' For Trouble"

The Dead Daisies are thrilled to announce their latest blues album, "Lookin' For Trouble," has debuted at an impressive No. 7 on the highly competitive Billboard Blues Albums chart. 
The album, a new entry this week, marks a significant achievement for the band, solidifying their presence in the blues genre.

The chart, dated Week of June 14, 2025, shows "Lookin' For Trouble" making a strong entrance, positioned among esteemed blues artists and classic albums. 
This success underscores the band's powerful performance, resonating with a wide audience and critics alike.

"We are excited to debut at number 7 on the Billboard Blues Album Chart with ‘Lookin’ For Trouble’, thank you guys so much, we really appreciate it!” says guitarist Doug Aldrich.

What started as a bit of fun in the studio has developed into something very special.

"Lookin' For Trouble" is available now on all major streaming platforms and digital retailers. The Dead Daisies are currently touring Europe.

PLAIINS Drop New Single "C'est La Vie" Off Debut Album "Happy Faces"

Fiery indie punk band PLAIINS have released new single "C'est La Vie." 

It's the fourth track from their upcoming debut album Happy Faces, set for release on August 15 via Long Branch Records. 

"'C'est La Vie' is about my excitement to move to Hamburg and take the plunge," says frontman Chris Reardon. "I was so sick of London at that point. The cost of the city and the difficulty of breaking into the industry. Meetings with labels and deals on the table, the excitement then nothing, over and over to the point that I set up my own label and started releasing music and getting out there. But it was tough and I was so ready to leave."

Stream "C'est La Vie" and pre-order the album here.

PLAIINS have been on a steamroller since their inception in late 2020. Having played with the likes of ITCHY, Cold Years, LEAP, Press Club, and many more, the band in 2024 signed with Long Branch Records/SPV and is pleased to soon present their debut album Happy Faces. The hard-working group has already released over 20 songs to date, regularly hitting the top playlists on Spotify

"I wanted us to make an album that would stand the test of time, is coherent and characterful, unique and of our own and would be a great contribution to the wonderful catalogue of rock music. I have so much love, reverence and adoration for the greats and I wanted us to at least be on that level," says Reardon.

PLAIINS ARE:
Chris Reardon — Vocals + Guitars
Timon Lanzinger — Bass
David Suhlrie — Drums
Florian Kaninck — Guitars

From Debbie Harry, Rufus Wainwright & Scissor Sisters to solo creator: Charlie Nieland releases 'The Ocean Understands' EP

Four years after his acclaimed ‘Divisions' album, songwriter-producer Charlie Nieland is back with his latest masterpiece -  'The Ocean Understands' EP, a new beautiful occasion to be swept away by a stunning collection of captivating melodies and restless rhythms that expertly blend post-punk, dream pop, and prog-rock. These unique soundscapes promise an immersive journey, showcasing Nieland's continued evolution as an artist and producer.

The material from this new 'The Ocean Understands' EP and the forthcoming album 'Stories From the Borderlines' (out later this year) took root through the NYC performance series "The Bushwick Book Club" in response to various literary sources and was inspired by Nieland's deep love of David Bowie, Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel, Cocteau Twins, Love & Rockets and The Cure.

"This set of songs is a kaleidoscope of styles. They are luminous secret rooms that reflect one human’s heart in a world at the precipice. Staying creative is resistance. As authoritarians attack culture, they make the mistake that imagination can be controlled when it actually emerges from the bottom up. Culture is not imaginary. It’s is rooted in imagination but it’s more real than what can be measured," says Charlie Nieland. 

"These songs tell stories of growing up, of how we got severed, and how we connect. I burrowed into each idea over several years that were filled with love, uncertainty and family drama. The time allowed me to create and explore sound worlds with a cinematic eye; finding contrasts in texture and time. To create an experience that shifts with each listen."

Nieland recently shared the dream-pop single 'Redshift', delving into the profound experience of creating your own chosen family, viewed through the lens of cosmic expansion and astrophysical wonder, following the stunning reverb-laced lead track 'Drown'. The video, directed by multi-faceted artist Hypnodoll, was inspired by a dystopian vision of a mythical, psychedelic siren song that explores a dark, authoritarian past through jumbled stories of the future. Sifting through present wreckage, 'Drown' searches for grace amidst violent, oceanic forces.

Nieland’s musical backstory is extensive, having written, performed and produced music for decades, focused on the atmospheric and the imaginative. He also wrote for and produced such notable artists as Debbie Harry, Rufus Wainwright, Blondie and Scissor Sisters, as well as scoring the feature film 'The Safety of Objects' (starring Glenn Close), the pilot episode of 'The L Word' on Showtime and the VH-1documentary 'NY77: The Coolest Year in Hell'.

Charlie was awarded a Gold record (UK) for his production work on Blondie's 'Greatest Hits Sight & Sound' and achieved a Top 10 Billboard Dance Chart Position with Debbie Harry's single 'Two Times Blue', which he co-wrote and produced.

His dream pop band Her Vanished Grace made music for over 20 years before establishing himself as a solo artist with a mix of nuanced songwriting and sonic exploration, debuting 'Ice Age' (2014) and then 'Hopeful Monsters' (2016). Half of the literature-inspired songwriting and performing duo Lusterlit with Susan Hwang, he also produces and co-hosts the 'An Embarrassment of Prog' podcast.

As of June 20, 'The Ocean Understands' EP' is available from fine digital music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp. 'The Ocean Understands' EP, now available for pre-order directly from the artist.

CREDITS 
Music & Lyrics written by Charlie Nieland
Recorded at Saturation Point Studios (Brooklyn, NY)
from January 2023 to April 2025

'Elegy' recorded live at KGB Bar, NYC, October 3rd, 2021
Charlie Nieland - vocals, guitars, basses, piano, keyboards, percussion, G-Force M-TRON Pro IV
Billy Loose - drums

Dan McAssey - guitar on 'Shame'
Produced, recorded, mixed & mastered by Charlie Nieland
Cover Art by Hypnodoll
© 2025 Athame Music
'Drown' video directed By Hypnodoll™
Photography by Alice Teeple
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR


Keep up with Charlie Nieland
Website | Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Soundcloud | Apple Music | Spotify | Press contact

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

FAN-FUELED FIRE: ALEXANDRA KAY DROPS SULTRY NEW TRACK “FEMININE ENERGY” AMIDST VIRAL DEMAND

With a fiercely loyal 8.6M-strong following, powerhouse vocalist and heart-first lyricist Alexandra Kay today delivers the sultry new anthem “Feminine Energy” that radiates confidence, allure and full-throttle sensuality. Fusing flirtatious-pop shimmer and bold-country attitude, the track depicts how a fearless love can awaken a woman’s most radiant and powerful self. Listen below.

Rushing to drop the empowering anthem, once her teases exploded online, her inbox and comments were flooded with release manifestations. Originally slated to release with her sophomore album later this year – when fans demand, Alexandra listens. Giving another glimpse into her hotly awaited new project and more on the way soon, “Feminine Energy” follows the dreaming romance of “The Last” and captivating singalong “Cupid’s A Cowgirl.” 

Having just wrapped two headlining tours that included commanding stages worldwide and selling well-over 80,000 tickets, the Pandora “2025 Artist to Watch: Country” and CMT “2025 Next Women of Country” member will join Brad Paisley on tour this summer – but not before delivering a pulse-pounding, encore-worthy sold-out hometown show at St. Louis Music Park. She also added “business owner” to her repertoire this week by opening her first coffee shop, The Coffee Girl, in Waterloo, Ill. on June 19 where she greeted fans for nearly six hours at the establishment. In addition, she’ll  be returning to the Grand Ole Opry stage on June 27 in Nashville. 

Known as “The Coffee Girl” for her “Coffee Covers” series on social media, where she delivered soulful renditions of country classics while making her morning coffee, The Coffee Girl celebrates how far she’s come.

Turning casual morning routines into must-watch moments, the rising powerhouse racked up millions of views. Her cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” alone skyrocketed past 60 million views and caught the attention of legends like Randy Travis and Tim McGraw—who later invited her on tour. Raw, nostalgic, and wildly addictive - what started as a front-porch-worthy phenomenon, turning her cozy kitchen corner into country music fans’ favorite stage, became a full-blown launchpad for her career and now first business endeavor. And, it all started with just a mason jar, knockout vocals and a little “Feminine Energy.”

KEEP UP WITH ALEXANDRA KAY

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X | FACEBOOK

Jenna Paulette & Ashley McBryde Duet on “The Prophet (Grandaddy’s Song)” Out Now

When cowgirl and songstress Jenna Paulette released her sophomore album, Horseback, last September, the 13-track project featured one song in particular that held a special place in the Texan’s heart. “The Prophet (Grandaddy’s Song),” written by Ashley McBryde, Matraca Berg and Lori McKenna, was dedicated to Paulette’s grandfather, and encapsulates the reverence felt toward the patriarch who shaped her life. 
 
Today, Paulette is teaming up with McBryde for a special collaboration version of the track, as the pair release a duet of the song, available everywhere now. Listen Below.
 
“I grew up in a ranching family on the Texas/Oklahoma line in Thackerville, Oklahoma,” Paulette reflected on her upbringing at her recent Opry appearance, sharing the inspiration behind the song. “I’d be listening to Don Williams, Eddie Arnold and George Strait in my grandad’s ranch truck as we checked cattle, and I just thought to myself, ‘well, if they can sing about what they’re living, maybe I can too.’ That Grandaddy that took me with him to check cows made a huge impact on me. 
 
“This song was sent to me by the A&R from my label, and was written by Ashley McBryde, Matraca Berg and Lori McKenna,” she added. “When it was sent to me, I asked ‘do you think they would mind if I put my grandad into these lyrics?" I thought, I just want to put him all the way in it, and I want my daughter, who is 7 months old, to be able to know my grandaddy because of this song. And they said yes, very graciously. So I put it on my record that came out a month before she was born, and Ashley McBryde actually said yes to putting out a duet version including her own lyrics to this song.”
 
“The Prophet (Grandaddy’s Song)” was originally released as a solo track on Horseback on Sept. 6, 2024. Upon its release, Paulette remarked that Horseback “is a culmination of perspectives I have of myself—to the things my family instilled in me, the men and women I grew up with and the ones I am blessed to be surrounded by where we live in a small town in West Texas. A window into the way so many of us feel and the things we value.”  
 
Paulette most recently released “How To Make A Cowboy Cry” in April, which coincided with the kickoff of her headlining Horseback Acoustic Tour. 
 
Since November 2024, Paulette has further expanded her brand, teaming up with Ely Cattleman for her women’s rangewear collection, CowboyGirl, and Justin Boots for her recently-launched Sunrise and Sunset Boots collection. Both bridge the gap in women’s fashion, creating apparel that’s both functional and appealing. CowboyGirl is available now at BootBarn.com, while the Sunrise and Sunset Boots are available at JustinBoots.com. 

About Jenna Paulette: 
A CMT Next Women of Country honoree and an Apple Music’s Country Riser, singer-songwriter Jenna Paulette — a cowgirl who came of age amid the gritty realities of ranch life — is part of Nashville’s growing wave of female artists who are rewriting the rules and charting their own paths. Paulette settled in Nashville in 2015, where she struck up a mentorship with Ashley Gorley – a veteran songwriter with 80+ No. 1 tunes under his belt – which ultimately led to her publishing deal with Sea Gayle Music in June 2021. Since collaborating with songwriters Will Bundy, Rhett Akins and Jessie Jo Dillion, as well as opening for Mason Ramsey, Parmalee, John Michael Montgomery, Clay Walker and most recently Aaron Watson, Paulette has landed brand partnerships with Justin Boots, Boot Barn, Ely Cattleman and Ranch Water.
 
With the arrival of her debut album The Girl I Was in 2023, Grammy.com remarked the project as “transformative,” noting it “fuses the sounds of Twain and Miranda Lambert, tackling mental health with the somber ‘You Ain't No Cowboy’ and waxing philosophical on ‘Country In The Girl.’” She continued to spotlight her authentic western lifestyle last year, performing the national anthem at the National Finals Rodeo, making her Grand Ole Opry Debut and performing in multiple festivals including CMA Fest. Paulette recently signed with independent label Leo33. Paulette’s sophomore album, Horseback, is available everywhere now. For more information, visit www.jennapaulette.com.
 
About Ashley McBryde:
GRAMMY, CMA and ACM award winner Ashley McBryde cut her teeth playing country songs in biker bars – and it shows. The Grand Ole Opry member’s 2018 major label debut Girl Going Nowhere (Warner Music Nashville) charmed The New York Times, NPR, Rolling Stone, Paste, The Washington Post and more, all en route to landing a GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Album. McBryde closed out 2019 with ACM New Female Artist, CMT Breakout Artist, a New Artist of the Year win at the 53rd Annual CMA Awards and two nominations for the 2020 GRAMMYs for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance for “Girl Goin’ Nowhere.” Follow-up Never Will was tagged by Rolling Stone as one of the most anticipated of the year alongside NPR, who also ranked her Top 10 RIAA Platinum-Certified single “One Night Standards” as one of the best songs of 2019. The album earned McBryde a 2021 GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Album, making Never Will the only album nominated for Country Album of the Year by the ACMs, CMAs and the Recording Academy in the same award season. Her GRAMMY-winning duet with Carly Pearce, “Never Wanted To Be That Girl,” went all the way to No. 1 and earned McBryde and Pearce the ACM and CMA award for Musical Event of the Year. McBryde was honored with the 2022 CMA International Artist Achievement Award for the most significant creative growth, development and promotion of the country music industry outside of the United States. Her collaborative project Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville earned McBryde her third consecutive GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Album, making her a six-time nominee. Her latest album The Devil I Know was released to critical acclaim, earning a title as one of the best country albums of the year from Rolling Stone, Billboard, Slate, PASTE, Holler and more. Following her second year co-hosting CMA Fest, McBryde will release the studio version of fan-favorite live staple “Rattlesnake Preacher” on June 26. Hailed as “one of country’s most cherished singer-songwriters” by Cowboys & Indians, her latest release offers poetic nostalgia on “Ain’t Enough Cowboy Songs,” available now. This summer, the Arkansas native performs headlining shows across the U.S. among festival dates at Country Stampede, Country Thunder Wisconsin, WE Fest and more, before joining Little Big Town and Dwight Yoakam on select dates. For more information, visit Ashley McBryde.com or follow her Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube.

NEW MUSIC FROM ADAMEZRA GROUP – “SWEET BEAUTIFUL THING” OUT NOW

“SWEET BEAUTIFUL THING” OUT TODAY ANYWHERE YOU CAN STREAM MUSIC!!
We are so excited to share this new song with you!! 

This may be the most joyously poppy song we’ve ever released…inspired by driving in the car with my 3 year old, Willa.  To me this song will always embody the feeling I get when looking through my rearview, watching my daughter experience the world as it rolls by her window…sun out…music blasting…filled with the joy and adventure of the day…

THANK YOU FOR THE FOLLOWS, STREAMS, LIKES, SHARES, AND PLAYLIST ADDS OF OUR SONGS ON PLATFORMS LIKE SPOTIFY, APPLE MUSIC, AND PANDORA, YOU ARE BECOMING PART OF OUR LITTLE UNDERGROUND ENGINE THAT IS CURRENTLY TRIGGERING ALGORITHMS AND GETTING OUR MUSIC RECOMMENDED TO NEW FANS ALL OVER THE WORLD!!

Check it out below.

Kenny Closes 15 Night Sphere Run w Mac McAnally, 2026 Announce

In the end, it was Kenny Chesney, a single drumstick and a high hat, bashing away alongside matchless drummer Nick Buda on the extended ending of “Don’t Happen Twice.” After 15 nights as the first country artist to headline Sphere Vegas, the man just named Billboard’s No. 1 Country Artist of the 21st Century clearly wasn’t ready to leave the stage, the fun, the wicked jams and the overwhelming No Shoes Nation vocal parts behind.
 
As the show was winding up, Chesney – who’d been in a revelatory story mode all night – told the crowd, “A couple days ago, they asked us to come back next year.” When “Out Last Night,” the robust midtempo about all the things said to get the job done, was delivered with the Vegas strip and signs surrounding the East Tennessee songwriter/superstar, the Sphere was showered with the No Shoes Nation pirate markings and a slice of globe that read #IGoBack26 and #Summertime26.
 
“I got a little carried away,” Chesney admitted after the show, “but after all the guests, all the songs we hadn’t planned on, all the people who came from all over, I just didn’t want to keep it a secret. I knew we were coming back, and if No Shoes Nation had half as much fun as we did, I wanted them to know we’d see them right here next summer. What could be better?”
 
All the surprises included two nights of iconic songwriter, sometime Coral Reefer and dear friend Mac McAnally. Rather than sing the expected “Back Where I Come From,” the duo delivered their No. 1 duet “Down The Road,” originally recorded on McAnally’s Simple Life. After sharing he only learned the dry-witted Mississippian had written Shenandoah’s chart-topping “Two Dozen Roses” at a concert at the Ryman this winter, the pair dove into unexpected treasure.
 
After talking about performing with James Taylor to sing their friend Jimmy Buffett into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – and citing the presence of Buffett’s sister Lucy on Saturday night – the pair reprised “Come Monday” to a crowd that lost their minds for the acoustic classic.
 
That intimate vibe was also in the house for an unscheduled “Old Blue Chair,” which was dedicated to several island friends who were in house. As the video captured the cerulean ocean and contemplative moments of the high impact performer’s unseen moments, the capacity crowd was lost in the beauty and introspection.
 
“For all the intensity of the production,” Chesney marveled, “these shows have been unbelievably fluid, capable of change-ups and crazy requests. Yes, it really is another dimension when it comes to how you experience the music, but it’s ultimately the songs that stand out.
 
“Mac McAnally proved that,” Chesney continued. “He is such a soul/heart singer, and all the warmth of what he does only grew greater on that stage. Whether it was mostly the two of us and our guitars or something like ‘Two Dozen Roses,’ the audience got to experience the root of what makes him so great. That voice of his, which feels like an old friend, took on an even more comfortable presence. It was amazing.”
 
While details for next year’s shows won’t be revealed for several weeks, Chesney’s experience lit such a fire under him he couldn’t wait to share the news. “When we said we were taking No Shoes Nation into another dimension, no one truly knew what that meant. Now that we do, we can’t wait to come back and do it all over again.”

Kenny Chesney and Mac McAnally at Chesney’s Live at Sphere Las Vegas | Photo Credit: Jill Trunnell