American rockers Robin Ross & The TW Howlers channel good vibes on 'Back To The Forest' EP

Pennsylvania artists Robin Ross & The TW Howlers has released their debut EP 'Back To The Forest', a tale of two rockers walking with nature and truth, living life to the fullest. This collaboration between singer-songwriters Robin Ross and TW Howell offer five original compositions, co-authored and recorded over several months in early 2025. With a stealthy mix of classic and Americana-hued and folky blues-rock, they have also created videos for 'Walk With Me' and 'Back To The Forest'.

With a musical foundation that started in New Jersey and New York in 1988, Robin Ross has since established himself in the bustling artistic community of Milford, Pennsylvania, A musician, songwriter, and producer known for diverse musical endeavors spanning over three decades, he has released five albums, holds an audio engineering degree and has played a pivotal role in the creation of several recording studios, including Triple R Studios and Sound Complex near New York City.

With a storied history of performing all over the United States, TW Howell is a folk-blues musician, whose style of music seamlessly blends these genres together with hints of rock. Writing and performing music his whole life, TW's music career launched in Florida on a trajectory that has zig-zagged  throughout the country. He too considers the Lake Champlain area and the Poconos as his home base.  

Recorded at Baa Baa Leaf Music Studios in Milford, this album was produced and engineered by Robin Ross with Jonathan Duckett (Phillip Glass, Kenny G, David Sanborn) serving as supervising engineer. Ross and Howell are joined on this album by their extended musical family of Wharton Tiers on drums and back vocalists Joellen (JoJo) Gaetani, Nancy Isola and Kristin Grazevich.

"This is an album of Baa Baa Leaf conceptually-inspired cosmic tunes, sonically chaneling our inner soul rock and roll. This was, metaphorically, like heading into the forest, unafraid to come out with new music," says Robin Ross.

"We are like brother travellers, reuniting to co-create and sharing a creative flow on a pass through the Baa Baa Leaf studio vibes and countryside! For us, it was an unexpected musical adventure that we just had to pursue."

Back To The Forest is more than an album; it's a sonic bath, a meticulously crafted immersion where the exhilarating pulse of good-vibed rock and roll converges with the serene power of pure forest energy. Each track is designed to envelop you, gently yet powerfully elevating your personal vibration and tuning you into a deeper sense of well-being. The lyrics say it all, "Walk With Me and see what we can find.  Looking for something, listening for something, walk with me!"  

In the early 1990s, Robin co-founded the band Laughing Jack, later rebranded as Jack’s Maze, which gained acclaim for a progressive rock sound reminiscent of such iconic bands as Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin. But, as occurs for many artists, life and business took him in a different direction.

In 2021, with rekindled passion, Robin embarked on new projects, including Robin Ross & The Melodynes, a collaboration with Wharton Tiers, Joe Torres and Joellen (JoJo) Gaetani that infuses the retro vibe of classic rock with modern sensibilities and more contemporary influences. Robin also regrouped with Jack's Maze members Frank Cinquegrana, Scott Cowan, and Joe Torres to create new progressive rock albums.

Dedicated to the art of music production and performance, Robin finds joy in the creative process and the connections it fosters with fellow musicians and audiences alike. With an eclectic musical style that transcends genres, Robin Ross continues to captivate listeners through soulful storytelling and infectious melodies, embodying the timeless spirit of rock and roll.

The 'Back to The Forest' EP is out now on CD, available via Robin Ross' website and digitally from fine digital platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon and Bandcamp.

CREDITS
Music written by Robin Ross & TW (Tim) Howell
Robin Ross - lead guitar, keys, bass, back vocals
TW Howell - vocals, acoustic guitar
Wharton Tiers - drums
JoEllen Gaetani - back vocals on 'Back To The Forest' & 'Walk With Me'
Kristin Grazevich - back vocals on 'Back To The Forest'
Nancy Isola - back vocals on 'Whiskey And Ice'
Recorded at Baa Baa Leaf Music Studios (Milford, PA)
Music Producer & Sound Engineer: Robin Ross
Supervising Engineer: Jonathan Duckett
Photography & videos by Tina Ross
Album design by Tina Ross
Publishing & booking: RPM Entertainment Enterprises, LLC
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR


Keep up with Robin Ross // Robin Ross & The TW Howlers
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MÈLANCOLIA - SHARE NEW SINGLE "SPIT!" OFF NEW ALBUM 'RANDOM.ACCESS.MISERY' FEAT. CHRISTOPHER MACKERTICH OF DREGG

Melbourne blackened nu-metal outfit MÉLANCOLIA share new single 'SPIT!' featuring Christopher Mackertich of DREGG, off their sophomore album 'random.access.misery' out Friday August 29 via Greyscale Records and Nuclear Blast. The band join THY ART IS MURDER on a regional tour of Australia starting this week.

'SPIT!' is a shift in MÉLANCOLIA's established sound, expanding on the nu-metal-influenced direction the upcoming album promises. It's the first track in their catalogue to feature clean singing and the first to include a guest feature. The new single adds another layer to the dark atmosphere they’re becoming known for and was written to be played live—specifically to cater for sing alongs, mosh pits and stage dives.

Leading single 'ALL_IS_RUST' came before 'SPIT!' and released as both a declaration of evolution and a warning: MÉLANCOLIA are not here to follow trends—they’re here to dismantle them. MÉLANCOLIA’s forthcoming album random.access.misery melds metalcore, deathcore, industrial noise, blast beats and DJ scratching and blends into a hellish sonic cocktail. 'ALL_IS_RUST' and 'SPIT!' welcomes listeners to the band's new sound and a genre the band have coined as “Blackened Nu Metal”.

'SPIT!' is streaming everywhere now. random.access.misery will be out everywhere via Greyscale Records and Nuclear Blast on Friday August 29. 

Stream 'SPIT!' 
https://melancolia.bfan.link/spit

Pre-order/pre-save 'random.access.misery':
https://geni.us/random-access-misery

Watch the video for ''SPIT!' Below:

After establishing themselves in 2022 with their debut single 'Horror_Ethereal', the band announced the following February their signing to both Greyscale Recordsfor Australia/New Zealand and Nuclear Blast for the rest of the world. They released their debut album HissThroughRottenTeeth in April 2023, crafting a unique sound that has already catapulted them to new heights. Their very first show was in 2023 supporting THY ART IS MURDER on their Decade Of Hate Australian Tour alongside STARVE and JUSTICE FOR THE DAMNED. Since this they’ve toured with TO THE GRAVE, FALLUJAH (US),CATTLE DECAPITATION (US), Ingested (UK), VULVODYNIA (SA), SUFFOCATION (US) and many more.

MÉLANCOLIA is
Alex Hill | Vocals
Joshua Taafe | Guitars
Billy Morris | Guitars
Mason Page | Drums
 Toby Thomas | Bass

Follow MÉLANCOLIA:
 Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | Youtube

LORNA SHORE Releases New Single & Video For “Unbreakable,” From Upcoming Album “I Feel The Everblack Festering Within Me” Out Sept 12 Via Century Media Records

After the rousing reaction to “Oblivion” in recent weeks, Lorna Shore are offering another taste of their upcoming album I Feel The Everblack Festering Within Me with second single, “Unbreakable” released today alongside a new music video, directed by Eric Richter. See it Below. The launch is also accompanied by a brand-new merch collection, available HERE.

 

Says vocalist Will Ramos of the anthemic track, “’Unbreakable’ is a very triumphant, all-inclusive song written to bring people together for a beautiful moment where they can realize that no matter what this world throws at us, it will never break us down. We and our bonds are unbreakable.”

 

I Feel The Everblack Festering Within Me is the band’s fifth album and the first in three years since 2022’s explosive Pain Remains. It’s set for release on September 12 via Century Media Records and will continue Lorna Shore’s reputation as one of the most impressive extreme metal acts to emerge in recent memory.

 

The quintet, also including lead guitarist Adam De Micco, drummer Austin Archey, rhythm guitarist Andrew O'Connor and bassist Michael Yager, have hit the viral Spotify charts, racked up hundreds of millions of streams, embarked on highly successful tours and in the process, galvanized a significant fanbase that hangs onto the band’s quest for stylistic inversion. But by virtue of physical onslaught and wanting to divine truth from their music, Lorna Shore have kept themselves fired up by torching the metal rulebook at every turn, practically demanding that other genres step up their game.

 

I Feel The Everblack Festering Within Me will be available in multiple formats including digital, CD and limited-edition vinyl variants. Fans can pre-save the album HERE and find their preferred physical and digital retailer HERE.

Lorna Shore will bring tracks from I Feel The Everblack Festering Within Me and other hits on the road beginning in September, joined by The Black Dahlia Murder, Shadow Of Intent and PeelingFlesh in a tour produced by Live Nation. Tickets are on sale now.

 

LORNA SHORE FALL 2025 TOUR
With The Black Dahlia Murder, Shadow Of Intent and PeelingFlesh

 

September 17 Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

September 18 Louisville, KY @ Louder Than Life Festival*

September 20 Worcester, MA @ New England Metal & Hardcore Festival*

September 21 National Harbor, MD @ The Theater at MGM National Harbor

September 23 Greensboro, NC @ Special Events Center

September 24 Nashville, TN @ The Pinnacle

September 26 Cleveland, OH @ Jacobs Pavilion

September 27 Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple Theatre

September 28 Chesterfield, MO @ The Factory

September 30 Atlanta, GA @ Coca-Cola Roxy

October 1 Tampa, FL @ Yuengling Center

October 3 Houston, TX @ 713 Music Hall

October 4 Irving, TX @ Toyota Music Factory

October 5 Cedar Park, TX @ H-E-B Center Cedar Park

October 6 Oklahoma City, OK @ The Criterion

October 9 Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

October 10 Las Vegas, NV @ Pearl Concert Theater

October 12 Riverside, CA @ Riverside Municipal Auditorium

October 13 San Diego, CA @ SOMA

October 14 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium

October 15 San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic

October 17 Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre

October 18 Vancouver, BC @ Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre

October 20 Salt Lake City, UT @ The Union Event Center

October 21 Denver, CO @ Fillmore Auditorium

October 23 Chicago, IL @ The Salt Shed

October 24 Maplewood, MN @ Myth Live

October 25 Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom

October 27 Toronto, ON @ Great Canadian Casino Resort

October 28 Laval, QC @ Place Bell

October 30 New York, NY @ The Theater at Madison Square Garden

*Festival dates

 

Find more info and tickets at www.lornashoreband.com

LEAH MARTIN-BROWN Unveils New Single "Levitate" + Music Video

Today, acclaimed international singer-songwriter LEAH MARTIN-BROWN is pleased to unveil her latest single “Levitate,” out now via Frontiers Music Srl. The new track comes alongside a music video, available below.

Fresh off the punchy release of country rock banger “R U Chicken,” MARTIN-BROWNreturns with a haunting, atmospheric ballad co-written by legendary producer Robert John ‘Mutt’ Lange and hitmaker Tony Nilsson. Produced by Lange, Nilsson, and Tommy Denander, the track marks a bold evolution in her sound.

LEAH MARTIN-BROWN comments on the single:

“’Levitate’ is about that feeling you get in the early stages of love - when being around someone makes everything feel a little lighter. This is a song that celebrates and explores that deep, safe 'you feel like home' love.”

Watch the Music Video for "Levitate"

LEAH MARTIN-BROWN is an Australian vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist known for fusing raw rock grit with cinematic emotion.

Although now based in Los Angeles, she first broke into the Australian industry with her goth-rock project Lilly Rouge, earning support slots with acts like Everclear, The Presidents of the USA, and The Getaway Plan before heading to the U.S. to level up her sound and vision.

 

In LA, she founded Evol Walks - a no-holds-barred hard rock band that had LEAH sharing the stage with the likes of Black Label Society, Within Temptation, Nita Strauss, and Johnny Depp.

 

Her commanding stage presence, powerful vocals and raw, unapologetic songwriting caught the attention of Frontiers Music Srl, where she now steps into her own as a solo artist.

 

With more genre-blurring releases on the way and international touring in her sights, MARTIN-BROWN continues to push boundaries - and she’s just getting started.

Stream / Listen to "Levitate" HERE

Line Up:

Leah Martin-Brown - Vocals

Tommy Denander - Guitars

Tony Nilsson - Keyboards & Programming

Leah Martin-Brown & Robert John "Mutt" Lange – Backing Vocals

DAVID REECE Reveals the Album Cover & Title of the New BANGALORE CHOIR Album on BraveWords Records

DAVID REECE has revealed the title and album cover for the new BANGALORE CHOIR album to be released on BraveWords Records in late 2025. The new album is titled RAPID FIRE SUCCESSION: On Target Part II. The first single and video are expected to be released in the next month.

Giles Lavery produced the new album, along with DAVID REECE. Giles said this about the new material, "I think this is THE career album for David and Bangalore Choir... probably my favourite thing he has ever done, which is already a high bar, I am very happy! It's a "BIG" record, full of amazing songs, this is David's "Bat Out Of Hell II" or "The River", we went for the full melodic-rock 1989-1991 era soundscape with this one, with world class players and co-writers"

 

David Reece: Vocals

Diego Pires: Lead and Rhythm Guitars

Eric Juris: Lead and Rhythm Guitars

Andy Backing Vocals

Mario Backing Vocals

Riccardo Demarosi: Bass and Backing Vocals

Nello Savinelli: Drums

 

Guest appearances:

Jimmy Waldo: Keyboards

Ferdy Doernberg: Keyboards

 

Engineered by Riccardo Demorossi

Mixed and Mastered by Thomas Mergler @Tom's Soundranch

 

Fans can join the BANGALORE CHOIR email list where they will be kept informed about the new album. Join: https://m.bnds.us/hGGRHB

 

David Reece will be hitting the road later this year supporting Girlschool and his BraveWords Records label mates Alcatrazz. David Reece's Bangalore Choir will deliver a blistering set of hits from both Accept and Bangalore Choir, showcasing one of the most distinctive voices in heavy metal.

This tour is also the debut of his relaunched version of Bangalore Choir

 

Tickets: https://bit.ly/4j42NUm

GIANT STEPS MY IMPROBABLE JOURNEY FROM STAGE LIGHTS TO EXECUTIVE HEIGHTS DEREK SHULMAN WITH JON WIEDERHORN

New from Jawbone: an eye-opening memoir from Derek Shulman that traces his extraordinary journey through music, from 1960s pop fame with Simon Dupree & The Big Sound to cult status as frontman of progressive rock pioneers Gentle Giant, and later as a record executive who signed and developed global acts like Bon Jovi, Dream Theater, and Slipknot. He also played a key role in revitalizing the careers of legends such as AC/DC and Bad Company. On sale October 7, 2025.

 

Watch the video trailer below:

Pre-order (North America): https://tr.ee/GiantSteps

Pre-order (UK/EU): https://tr.ee/GiantSteps-UK-EU

In Giant Steps, Derek Shulman chronicles a remarkable life and career surrounded by music and creativity in many forms. It begins with a young Derek confidently telling his schoolteacher he would grow up to become a star, and unfolds into a fast-paced and eye-opening journey through decades of pop culture, creative risk-taking, and personal reinvention.

 

Shulman first found fame as a teenager in the 1960s pop and r&b group Simon Dupree & The Big Sound, then pushed rock music to the outer edges in the 1970s as frontman of progressive rock pioneers Gentle Giant.

 

In the 1980s, he made a bold pivot into the record business, taking on senior roles at labels like Polygram, ATCO, and Roadrunner Records. There, he signed and developed artists including Bon Jovi, Dream Theater, Slipknot, Pantera, and Men Without Hats, while also helping to revitalize the careers of AC/DC, Bad Company, and others.

 

Along the way Gentle Giant would become a defining influence on hip-hop, sampled by many of the genre’s leading lights including J. Dilla, De La Soul, Run The Jewels, Travis Scott and dozens more. The band was later championed by Questlove, drummer of The Roots and acclaimed filmmaker, who named them one of his favorite rock acts of all time.

 

Clean-living and focused in an industry often defined by chaos and excess, Shulman offers a rare perspective on the evolution of music and culture from the 1960s to today. Giant Steps is essential reading for fans of prog, rock, hip-hop, and anyone curious about the inner workings of the music industry.

About the authors

Derek Shulman is a celebrated musician and music executive best known as lead vocalist and founding member of the progressive rock band Gentle Giant. Born in 1947 in Glasgow, Scotland, he grew up in a musical family, which greatly influenced his artistic journey. After achieving success and acclaim with Gentle Giant in the 1970s, Derek transitioned into the music industry as an executive, playing a pivotal role in signing major acts including Bon Jovi, Pantera, and Dream Theater. With a career spanning over five decades, Shulman remains an iconic figure in the music world, well known and widely respected for his creativity and dedication. 

Jon Wiederhorn is a veteran author and music journalist. He is the co-author of Louder Than Hell: The Definitive Oral History Of Metal, Dreaming Japanese (with Marty Friedman), I’m The Man: The Story Of That Guy From Anthrax (with Scott Ian), Ministry: The Lost Gospels According To Al Jourgensen, and My Riot: Agnostic Front, Grit, Guts & Glory (with Roger Miret), and is the author of Raising Hell: Backstage Tales From The Lives Of Metal Legends. He also has worked on staff at Rolling Stone, MTV, and Guitar Magazine, spearheaded the 12-episode exclusive iHeart Radio podcast Backstaged: The Devil In Metal, and written for LA Times, Classic Rock, Guitar World, TV Guide, SPIN, The Village Voice, and Melody Maker.

Surfaced Sign to 1126 + Announce "Where Angels Fear to Tread" EP + Share "Wasted in Hatred" Video

From the depths of Oldham County, Kentucky, SURFACED were born from the grit of local shows and the pulse of friendship. Formed in 2022, this young metalcore unit draws influence from across the heavy spectrum — deathcore, death metal, and early 2000s metalcore — channeling that chaos into something equally volatile and focused. What began as friends bonding in moshpits has quickly evolved into a touring force, with a reputation growing show by show, riff by riff.

Now signed to Massachusetts-based label 1126 Records, SURFACED are preparing to unleash Where Angels Fear to Tread, a six-track EP built on raw emotion and sharpened aggression produced by Dom Maduri (The Callous Daoboys, Mauled).

It is inspired by grief, confusion, rage, and the wreckage that drags us under — an honest reflection of what it feels like to be young and overwhelmed.

The EP arrives on August 15. Pre-order it here. 

Today, SURFACED share the video for "Wasted in Hatred," which explores quiet devastation through the loss of a beloved pet, turning sorrow into something unnervingly heavy. 

Watch the video below:

"'Wasted In Hatred' is about the sadness I feel every day that I wake up," says vocalist JP Kane, pulling back the curtain on a song that addresses a very palpable and relatable sort of grief. "I wrote this song because my cat died while I wasn't home and it has haunted me every day."
 
The EP's atmosphere is matched by haunting visuals — Alexandre Goulet's artwork mirrors the music's layered darkness: Complex, grotesque, and beautiful in its decay.

The band is thrilled about its new label partner, saying, "We're stoked to be signed with 1126, the family there is great to work with, especially for a small upcoming band like us. They have faith in SURFACED as a whole." 

While Where Angels Fear to Tread is the band's current focus, SURFACED are just as committed to the grind of the road. With two tours booked this summer and a slot at Memphis Pest Fest in the fall, they're set on getting loud in every city that will have them. For SURFACED, touring is not just a promotion cycle — it's the second half of the story.

And it's just getting started.

SURFACED ON TOUR:
WITH EIGHTEEN VISIONS + VOMIT FORTH:
6/28 — Detroit, MI — Sanctuary
6/29— Louisvill, MI — Bourbon Hall

WITH THUS SPOKE ZARATHURSTA + MAULED:
6/25 — Denver, CO — D3 Arts Center
6/26 — Minneapolis, MN — Flying V Music Hall
6/27 — Milwaukee, WI — JJ’s Bar and Grill
6/30 — Nashville, TN — RKMTTR, 
7/1 — Kingsport, TN — VF2 POST 4933
9/5-9/6 — Memphis, TN – Pest Fest

SURFACED ARE:
Elijah Dickson — Bass
JP Kaine — Vocals
Blake Smith — Drums
Quinton Steyn — Guitar
Lincolin Temple — Guitar

SIENA ROOT Announce Eagerly-Awaited New Double Live Album 'Made In KuBa'. First Single & Video "Wishing For More (Live)" Out Now!

The ‘Dynamic Root Rock Experience’ remains the most fitting description of SIENA ROOT’s sound - and that’s exactly what the Swedish quartet’s new double live album, Made in KuBa, delivers. Out worldwide on October 3, 2025 via Perception - A Division of Reigning Phoenix Music, the album is available to pre-order now. 
 
Recorded over three intimate nights in March 2024 at Germany’s legendary Kulturbahnhof (KuBa) in Jena, the release picks up where 2011’s Root Jam left off, cranks the tape machines even harder, and continues the band’s commitment to authentic, audiophile sound.

The band’s signature jams are all here: rich in improvisation, dynamic contrasts, and sonic storytelling. To ensure the highest analogue fidelity, long-time sound engineer Ove Noring was brought in as tape operator to record the shows and track every note, jam and thunderous applause direct to tape - no overdubs, no studio tricks, just pure stage energy.
The first taste of the album, lead single "Wishing For More," captures the soulful tension and explosive chemistry that SIENA ROOT channel so effortlessly on stage.

It’s a track that leaves listeners, fittingly and indeed...wishing for more.
“‘Wishing For More’ was first recorded on the album “Far From The Sun” in 2008, as the rocking opening of the B-side. Through the years of touring we enjoyed to play the song and it developed a character of its own. The song became something more than the shuffle it originally was on the studio recording. We are so pleased to have captured this enchanted groove and energy live on tape.”

Watch the new live footage video below:
Stream "Wishing For More (live)": https://sienaroot.rpm.link/wishingPR

The SIENA ROOT quartet - anchored by founding members Sam Riffer (bass) and Love Forsberg (drums & percussion), and rounded out by Zubaida Solid (vocals & keys) and Johan Borgström (guitars) - welcomed guest musicians Erik Peterson on keys and Lisa Isaksson on flute to further enrich the performance on selected songs.

What sets Made in KuBa apart from other live albums is its uncompromising authenticity: a fully live, all-analogue recording with a set list crafted together with fans, featuring twelve tracks from across the band’s catalogue - none of them repeated from Root Jam. The result is not just a document of three unforgettable nights in Jena - it’s a fully immersive experience that bridges the space between stage and speaker. And this time, they’ve gone a step further: Made in KuBa was mastered at half-speed, a meticulous process that enhances the sonic depth of the vinyl version.
“Half-speed mastering is an old-school technique that vinyl lovers will recognize,”the band says. “It’s a delicate but complex process that makes “Made in KuBa” an even more three-dimensional listening experience - for you and for us.”
Wishing for more? Get it in full analogue glory. Pre-orders open today for classic black double vinyl (with artistic cut-out cover) and double digipak CD at https://sienaroot.rpm.link/madeinkubaPR

About SIENA ROOT
SIENA ROOT is a band renowned for its vibrant spectrum of styles, standout guest collaborations, and unique interpretations of classic rock. With eight full-length studio albums, one double live album, and three 7” singles to their name, each release showcases the group’s evolving sound and artistic depth.

Touring extensively across Europe since the early 2000s, SIENA ROOT has crafted a wide range of genre-blending songs. Live performances are the lifeblood of the band—frequently joined by prominent guest musicians, their shows often evolve into wild, improvised sessions that inspire future studio work. Their live act is known for its uncompromising approach, powered by heavy vintage equipment few bands have the passion or strength to take on the road. During the recording of their live albums, they even brought a full-size multi-track tape recorder across Europe.

This relentless dedication sets SIENA ROOT apart. A concert experience with the band is dramatic and exciting—visually as well as emotionally. It's a dynamic root rock experience.
 
SIENA ROOT are:
Zubaida Solid | vocals, keys
Johan Borgström | guitars
Sam Riffer | bass
Love Forsberg | drums, percussion
 
More on SIENA ROOT:
sienaroot.com I Facebook I Instagram I Spotify I Apple Music

LAINEY WILSON DEBUTS EXCLUSIVE 3-SONG APPLE MUSIC SESSIONS EP

16x ACM, 9x CMA and Grammy Award-winning artist Lainey Wilson debuts her exclusive Apple Music Sessions EP today, which was recorded in London and features covers of The Beatles’ “Come Together” and Lewis Capaldi’s “Someone You Loved,” as well as a reimagined version of her song “Devil Don’t Go There.” Listen HERE.

Wilson also joined The Kelleigh Bannen Show in London to discuss the EP. On her cover of “Come Together,” she tells Bannen, “Last year when we were here [in London], we got to record a song at Abbey Road, and just really felt that energy in the building. And just trying to wrap your head around how influential The Beatles really are and what they have done to every single genre.”

On her choice of covering Lewis Capaldi’s “Someone You Loved,” she adds: “I watched his documentary and it really inspired me to see how he works, and how he just goes into his hole, and if he’s not feeling creative, he fights for it. You know what I’m saying? He fights for that creativity, which I love.” Listen to the full interview anytime on Apple Music HERE.

The release adds to yet another triumphant year for Wilson, who continues to receive overwhelming attention with her acclaimed new single, “Somewhere Over Laredo,” which earned Wilson her biggest first day of streaming to date (1.16M), while Billboard 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 deluxe version of Wilson’s album, Whirlwind, which is set for release August 22 via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville (pre-order/pre-save/pre-add here).

In the past year, Wilson also won four awards at the 60th Annual ACM Awards: 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, was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, won Best Country Album at the 2024 Grammy Awards and two awards at the 58th CMA Awards, where she also made her hosting debut alongside Peyton Manning and Luke Bryan. She’s also scored eight #1 hits, recently debuted “Trailblazer” with Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert and will make her feature film acting debut in next year’s adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s Reminders of Him. Known for her electric live performances, Wilson is currently in the midst of 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. See below for complete tour itinerary.

LAINEY WILSON CONFIRMED TOUR DATES
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
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Fox Lake Drop Animated "Freestyle" Video

Born in the mile-high city of Denver, FOX LAKE bring an elevated and energetic sound to the heavy music scene. The band formed back in 2017 as friends jamming in their basement, looking to branch out from the standard metalcore sound by incorporating elements of their favorite genres — hardcore, hip-hop, and rock 'n' roll. Through the present, FOX LAKE continue to level up by delivering a musical brass-knuckled punch to the face that lands on anyone in their proximity.

The band recently announced its new album NEW WORLD HEAT will drop August 1 via MNRK HEAVY. Pre-order it here or here.

Fox Lake has unleashed the animated video for their latest banger "Freestyle," featuring AVOID. 

Watch it below. 

The track, which is equal parts bounce and groove, addresses naysayers and haters who don't appreciate the group's non-adherence to genre norms. Zero. F**ks. Given.

Reading the lyrics throughout New World Heat, Fox Lake reveal the redemptive theme at the album's beating heart, saying, "The basic concept of the album is about burning things down in order to restart. It's about who you are versus who you want to be. The world you live in versus the world you want to live in. It takes guts to strip everything away and take a hard, honest look at your life and the world around you."

They continue, "Everyone has things that hold them down and things that seem to hold their reality in place. Habits, social circles, vices, beliefs, political systems, traumas, etc. Those things will be different for everyone. But the one constant is that action begets action and inaction begets inaction. You either drown in complacency or burn parts of yourself away to create a better world. We all have a choice. Musically, we felt like this concept fit perfectly with where we were at. We all have different inspirations that we want to bring into Fox Lake. It can be tricky to mesh together all the genres that we're inspired by while still having an original sound." 

The band finishes, "So, for this record, we burned down the limitations we had previously put on ourselves and restarted our writing process with a singular goal — to sound like Fox Lake. The end result is an album that we're extremely excited about and that feels very authentic to us. The music is faster, heavier, groovier, and catchier than ever before. It's a new sound for a new world. Everyone is going to have different opinions on whether the band is more hardcore, nu-metal, rock, or metalcore. But everyone's gonna know it's Fox Lake."

Burn, baby, burn, and let the phoenix arise from the ashes in the form of Fox Lake and New World Heat. Reboot, renew, and rise to the top.

Fox Lake will embark on plenty of touring in support of New World Heat. Stay tuned for more details on the band's road treks.

LINDS SAIS shares 'Glitter Cowgirl', an anthem of empowerment, ahead of debut EP

Canadian pop starlet Linds Sais is back, packing a sonic pistol with her new single 'Glitter Cowgirl', the final standalone preview of her debut 'Glitter Cowgirl' EP. Channelling the spirit of Gloria Gaynor, she serves up a disco anthem for overcoming life's emotional obstacles, with its pulsating synths and defiant message of self-empowerment.

Here we have a tale of a wife's resilience and her journey to emotional survival when faced with a husband's infidelity. While the video is a fun fashionable Barbie-inspired exercise in role-playing, the song itself explores a woman's enduring independence and emotional suffering to ultimately thrive.

With a voice that shimmers like a disco ball and resonates with the depth of a drum beat, Linds Sais observingly explores the vibrant intersection of self-love, community, and social media. Hailing from Winnipeg, Canada, she has emerged as a captivating and charismatic artist, her voice gliding effortlessly.

"This song is ultimately about how a husband’s actions won’t destroy the wife’s independence. The ultimate female empowerment anthem, 'Glitter Cowgirl' depicts a wife discovering her husband’s affair and the aftermath. Whereas, in the past, women were often financially dependent on their spouse, here the wife is able to leave and exercise her independence," says Linds Sais.

"Throughout all of this, she is still able to maintain her sense of humour, as shown by the tag line “what in the glitter cowgirl is going on here”, just before she takes the final step into a liberating single girl era."

Linds Sais is turning heads with her captivating voice, mixing Pink's fearless vulnerability, Lana Del Rey's melancholic allure, and Carly Rae Jepsen's ability to find noteworthy dynamics and hope in the everyday. With delicate yet commanding vocals, Linds Sais masterfully navigates the landscape and disillusionment of hookup culture, flirt technology and heartbreak cliffhangers.

Her previous sizzling single '2 Hot Weeks of You' is a slick and sultry ballad about today’s dating culture and the use of modern apps, where a good match is ultimately only fleeting. She earlier released 'Golden Hour', exploring another facet of modern-day Insta culture in a sun-soaked delight that channels the glow of radiant selfies into a playful, feel-good anthem.

Inspired by Lauryn Hill and Whitney Houston, and rooted in the soul-bearing intentionality of Alicia Keys and vocal fire of TLC, Linds Sais blends classic influence with a fresh sensibility that feels entirely her own. Her sound is silk-wrapped storytelling: smooth, vulnerable, and unexpectedly powerful when the emotion demands it.

Her 'Glitter Cowgirl' EP mirrors those trying to grow up gracefully in this chaotic world. With the seeds laid during the pandemic, when the world paused—at that time, Linds hit play on the backlog of emotion and experience she had yet to articulate. What emerged was a flood of songwriting that felt both personal and universal with lyrics and hooks that often hit in the middle of the night.

As of June 25, the 'Glitter Cowgirl' single is available from fine music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music  and Bandcamp. Her self-released 'Glitter Cowgirl' EP will be released digitally on August 1.

CREDITS
Music & Lyrics written by Lindsay Johnston, Tyler John
Performed by Linds Sais
Produced & mixed by Tyler John
Mastered by Joao Carvalho Mastering
Cover art & design by Lindsay Johnston & Nathan Dyck
Video Director - Vincent Tang
Production Assistant - Ingrid Ruiz
Editor - Vincent Tang
Female Actress - Lindsay Donnick
Male Actor - Cieran O'Hara
BTS Photographer - Nathan Dyck
Grip & Electrics - Alec Carlos & Nathan Dyck
Director of Photography - Vincent Tang
Linds Sais - Lindsay Johnston
Venue - Thomas Hinds Sampling Room
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

AMONG THE BODIES Unleash Feral New Single and Harrowing Music Video Ahead Of Cathartic EP

Denver Colorado's "AMONG THE BODIES"  have returned with their new song "Meant For Each Other".

The band comments, "Our new single is about losing a close friend to a new relationship. The music video tells the story and captures the roller coaster of emotions that come along with it, while also highlighting the personalities of the band members." 

The song's brutal blend of deathcore, hardcore and metalcore is a perfect primer for their upcoming EP Making Sense of Our Decay, which is out on June 27th.

AMONG THE BODIES is:
Raye - drums
Mac - guitar
Keith - vocals
Addison - bass

About AMONG THE BODIES:

Hailing from Denver, Colorado, Among the Bodies aren’t afraid of anything—including the liminal space between hardcore, deathcore, death metal, and metalcore, which is where they’re most comfortable. While the riffs may be hard to classify, they aren’t hard to mosh to. Appealing to both the old heads who saw deathcore and metalcore storm the scene and the new generation that embraces experimentation, Among the Bodies’ number-one goal is to keep it heavy while having fun.

Making Sense of Our Decay, their second EP, is a bit of a departure from the first EP, Chaotic Intent, which focused more on technicality and melody. Now, with their revised lineup, Among the Bodies are here to make you forget about genre conventions and lose yourself in the pit. While the subject matter on the EP gets a bit serious, delving into the realities of being an aging metalhead or hardcore kid, it’s all done with a tongue-in-cheek attitude and a love for heavy music reminiscent of the genre’s forefathers. We’re all decaying slowly, so why not have fun while doing it?

Wheel Of Time - Asymmetry OUT November 12, 2025

WHEEL OF TIME is the brainchild of Beijing-based multi-instrumentalist and composer Jimmie Hong, who launched the project in 2022 while participating in the mentorship program of ex-MEGADETH guitarist Kiko Loureiro. Inspired by the collaborative spirit of projects like TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, Jimmie envisioned a progressive power metal project that would bring together top musicians from around the world, working remotely across continents and time zones.

Named after one of his favorite fantasy novels, WHEEL OF TIME blends the technical precision of progressive metal with the melodic sweep of power metal, symphonic grandeur, and subtle Eastern melodic elements. The band draws from influences such as METALLICA, DREAM THEATER, STRATOVARIUS, PINK FLOYD, LED ZEPPELIN, LIQUID TENSION EXPERIMENT, OPETH, and SYMPHONY X, while forging a sound uniquely its own.

After releasing the single "Grand Cosmos" in 2023 and the EP The Enlightenment later that year, WHEEL OF TIME now unveils its debut full-length album Asymmetry on November 12, 2025. The album was composed entirely by Jimmie Hong, produced and engineered by Tom MacLean (ex-HAKEN), and recorded in collaboration with an international lineup of musicians.

Asymmetry Credits:

  • Executive Producer: Jimmie Hong

  • Producer: Tom MacLean

  • Recording Studio: Twelve-tone Studio

  • Engineer: Tom MacLean

  • Mixing: Tom MacLean

  • Mastering: Tom MacLean

  • Album Cover Artist: Aleh

  • Orchestration Composer: Marcos Barilari


Connect with WHEEL OF TIME:

FACE YOURSELF - Drop New Single & Music Video "Ov Agony"

Transcontinental deathcore force Face Yourself have dropped their latest single “Ov Agony”, out now via Sumerian Records. The track arrives on the heels of the band’s breakout Martyr EP, which featured fan-favorite singles “Predatory”, “Sideration” and "Primal" pushed the band past 6 million global streams. Now, with “Ov Agony,” Face Yourself dive even deeper—offering one of their most unrelenting, emotionally raw tracks to date. Listen to 'Ov Agony" HERE and watch the official music video below.

 

Speaking on the new single, vocalist Yasmine Liverneaux shares: 

"We are proud to release our new single "Ov Agony" via sumerian records. This song is for anyone who has ever felt like giving up. I wrote the lyrics based on a suicide letter that I wrote for my parents when I was 15, that I ended up never giving to them. Now that I have reached a certain peace in my life, it is easier to go back to those darker places, and heal these old wounds through music. I no longer have to hold this pain inside, and now that it has been freed through the music, this pain doesn't have to be mine anymore. I hope this can resonate with anyone who has shared this feeling, and hopefully let go of their pain knowing that artistic expressions can save lives, and unite people."

 

Blending feral vocals with scorched-earth breakdowns and moments of melodic collapse, “Ov Agony” continues Face Yourself’s mission to blur the line between brute force and emotional truth. Produced by Joey Sturgis (Asking Alexandria, The Devil Wears Prada), the band’s sound fuses modern deathcore chaos with raw, vulnerable storytelling—anchored by Yasmine’s searing performances and the band’s uncompromising intensity.

This summer, Face Yourself will bring their cathartic chaos to stages across the U.S. on Crystal Lake and VCTMS’ ‘Summer of Rampage’ Tour, kicking off July 4 in Brooklyn, NY. Full dates below.

For ticket information, please click here.

Summer Of Rampage Tour with VCTMS, Crystal Lake & Not Enough Space

7/01 - Cleveland, OH @ Winchester*

7/02 - Buffalo, NY @ Rec Room*

7/03 - Albany, NY @ Empire Underground*

7/04 - Brooklyn, NY @ The Monarch

7/05 - Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts

7/06 - Morgantown, WV @ 123 Pleasant St

7/08 - Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle

7/09 - Milwaukee, WI @ X-Ray

7/10 - Iowa City, IA @ Wildwood

7/11 - Tulsa, OK @ Vanguard

7/12 - Ft. Worth, TX @ The Rail

7/13 - San Antonio, TX @ The Rock Box

7/15 - New Orleans, LA @ Southport Hall

7/16 - Birmingham, AL @ WorkPlay

7/17 - Orlando, FL @ Conduit

7/18 - Jacksonville, FL @ Underbelly

7/19 - Asheville, NC @ Eulogy

7/20 - Columbus, OH @ Ace Of Cups*

*VCTMS Only

ABOUT FACE YOURSELF

A transcontinental Deathcore phenomenon, Face Yourself has redefined what it means to blend modern heaviness with old-school roots. Featuring members from New York, New Jersey, Colorado, and France, their unique sound is as diverse as their origins. Vocalist Yasmine Liverneaux brings her French influence and socially conscious themes into the mix, setting the band apart with an intensity and depth that’s rarely seen in the genre.

With their Myspace-era throwback riffs, drop-tuned breakdowns, and sheer relentlessness, Face Yourself have become a staple of the modern Deathcore era. Their ability to connect with fans worldwide and their tireless drive have made them a force to be reckoned with—and they’ve only just begun.

ALLELE RETURNS WITH NEW SINGLE “RED HEART LOVE,” ANNOUNCE “POINT OF ORIGIN” 20TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR ​    

Rock fans, mark your calendars: Jacksonville, FL-based alternative hard rock outfit ALLELE is back in a big way with their new single, “Red Heart Love,” available on all digital outlets this Friday via THC: MUSIC / Virgin Music Group. The explosive new track delivers the signature melodic intensity and emotional weight fans have come to expect, while showcasing a renewed energy from the band’s latest lineup -

Wally Wood – Vocals
Joey Rodriguez – Guitar
Billy Grey (Fozzy) – Guitar
Tyler Hensley – Bass
Dusty Winterrowd – Drums

 

To celebrate, ALLELE is hitting the road this weekend for a special run of “Point of Origin” 20th Anniversary Tour this weekend, performing their seminal 2005 debut in its entirety, along with fan favorites and new material, their first shows in over a decade.

POINT OF ORIGIN 20TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:

 Thurs. 6/26 – Piere’s – Fort Wayne, IN
 Fri. 6/27 – Shenanigans – Portage, IN
 Sat. 6/28 – Epic Event Center – Green Bay, WI
 Sun. 6/29 – The Forge – Joliet, IL

 

Joining them on the road are Riding With Killers, featuring Taylor Roberts of Taproot, and special guests Oceans on Other Planets.

 

To coincide with the tour/anniversary, THC: MUSIC will release a special 20th Anniversary Edition of Point of Origin this summer, remastered by Richard Easterling (Taproot, American Head Charge), available first time ever on all digital outlets July 4th, and will be available to pre-order on LP and CD Friday from THC MUSIC.

 

Founded in 2003, ALLELE gained national attention with their breakout album Point of Origin, which included the hit singles “Closer to Habit” and “Stitches”, (which have been featured in WWE Smackdown Vs. Raw, Cobra Kai, and many more), followed by the fan-favorite sophomore release Next To Parallel.  Their brand of fist-pumping emotionally-charged Hard Rock anthems, and years of relentless touring have helped Allele build a massive loyal fanbase that has stuck with them over 2 decades.

For tour tickets and additional info, visit:

 

http://www.alleleofficial.com/
www.thcmusicinc.com

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


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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.