FALLUJAH PAYS TRIBUTE TO MESHUGGAH WITH NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR 'THE OBSIDIAN ARCHITECT'

Progressive death metal masters FALLUJAH are paying tribute to extreme metal pioneers MESHUGGAH with their new music video for ‘The Obsidian Architect,’ in which they recreate the band’s iconic DIY video for ‘New Millennium Cyanide Christ.’ Watch it below.

Commenting on the video, the band states:

“We spent our entire budget on Lamborghinis and tattoos for the Labyrinth of Stone music video, so we had to shoot this one ourselves. Best we could do. Enjoy.”

‘The Obsidian Architect’ is found on the band’s recent, critically acclaimed album, Xenotaph, that’s available now via Nuclear Blast Records.

Purchase/Stream Xenotaph: https://fallujah.bfan.link/xenotaph

About FALLUJAH:

Prog death-metal outfit FALLUJAH expand horizons and solidify their position as one of America’s most exciting acts on their new album, Xenotaph, through Nuclear Blast. The quintet’s confidence in the lineup that made their previous album, Empyrean (2022), such a resounding success—earning high marks from Metal Injection, New Noise, and Guitar World—has been reconfigured slightly, with guitarist Sam Mooradian (INHALE EXISTENCE, SAM MOORADIAN) and drummer Kevin Alexander (DISEMBODIED TYRANT, BROUGHT BY PAIN) bringing their jaw-dropping musical proficiency to the fold, as vocalist Kyle Schaefer, guitarist Scott Carstairs, and bassist Evan Brewer enter a new chapter with FALLUJAH. Moored by singles ‘Kaleidoscopic Waves,’ ‘Labyrinth of Stone,’ and ‘Step Through the Portal and Breathe,’ Xenotaph is FALLUJAH personified, reinvigorated, and re-imagined.

Xenotaph was produced by FALLUJAH, engineered by Dave Otero (CATTLE DECAPITATION, ARCHSPIRE) and Mike Low (VITRIOL, ABORTED) at Flatline Audio in Denver, Colorado and Top Track Studios in Nashville, Tennessee. Otero also mixed and mastered Xenotaph. The main goal was elevation, building upon yet soaring upward from Empyrean, one of the group’s strongest productions to date. The team focused the separation of FALLUJAH’s breakneck pace, meticulous songcraft, euphonious leads, and unrivaled intensity, creating an experience pulls the listener into Xenotaph’s high-caliber music and concept.

Beyond releasing Xenotaph to an anticipating fanbase, FALLUJAH take aim at the road, drawing upon the success of their Empyrean runs. Indeed, attendees to the group’s live performances have witnessed some of Xenotaph’s songs already, namely the shimmery prog-bounce and inner world horror of ‘The Obsidian Architect.’ FALLUJAH are in a perpetual state of evolution, and Xenotaphdemonstrates the group’s hard-won, if profound journey. For there is no reverse—only forward progress, and the path ahead is illuminating before them.

Kyle Schaefer | Vocals, Programming
Scott Carstairs | Guitars
Sam Mooradian | Guitars
Evan Brewer | Bass
Kevin Alexander | Drums

Follow FALLUJAH:

Linktree | Facebook | Instagram | X | Youtube | Patreon

Laura Cox Announces New Album "Trouble Coming" — A Bold Blend of Classic Rock Spirit + Modern Edge

French rock artist Laura Cox is set to release her  new album Trouble Coming on October 31 via earMUSIC / Verycords.

Following the release of the singles "No Need to Try Harder" and "Trouble Coming," the album captures everything that made Cox one of Europe's most exciting rock exports — while adding a sharper, modern appeal that points firmly toward the future.

From explosive guitar anthems like "Do I Have Your Attention?" to more atmospheric, introspective tracks such as the aforementioned "Trouble Coming," the album balances raw riffs with melodic storytelling. Laura Cox, once a viral guitarist on YouTube, has grown into a beloved voice of modern hard rock — bridging generations of listeners who crave both tradition and innovation.

The album is available in multiple formats, including a CD Digipak, standard black LP, and two limited marbled vinyl editions (black/white and transparent red/black).

Pre-order the new album Trouble Coming here. 

"Trouble Coming marks a new era in my musical evolution, still firmly rooted in the rock that shaped me, but driven by complete freedom in writing and composition. This album reflects a sense of letting go, both through the themes it explores and the modern sounds that emerged from an unexpected collaboration," states Cox.

ABOUT LAURA COX:
From viral guitarist to festival mainstay, Laura Cox has carved her own lane in the European rock scene. With over 513K YouTube subscribers and a combined 105 million views, her journey from bedroom covers to main stages like Hellfest, Rockpalast, and Pol'and'Rock has become the blueprint for independent rock success. Her 2023 album Head Above Water showcased a striking evolution in both sound and songwriting — and if Trouble Coming is any indication, there's plenty more fuel in the tank.

BRAINSTORM Release New Single & Visualiser Video "The Boys Of Summer"

Still riding on the wave of success caused by their 2025 album Plague Of Rats (February 28, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music; DE #13, SE #13, AT #41, CH #42, GR #50), Southern German heavy/power metallers BRAINSTORM use the final weeks of the warm season by having a creative stopover at the beach on their way back from the myth-enshrouded Indus world. Today, they present nothing but a metalled-up take on DON HENLEY’s classic track "The Boys Of Summer" to their fans.
 
The track was recorded during BRAINSTORM’s Plague Of Rats sessions in 2024, and the timing of its release couldn’t be more fitting as the group have entered the final stages of this year’s festival season.
 
Vocalist Andy B. Franck adds: “Even though ‘The Boys Of Summer’ deals with rather nostalgic themes of ‘summer love’ and the memory of a past relationship, for me - at the time a 13-year-old - it was, beyond the metal anthems of the 80s, a great song that I associated with summer, girls and the corresponding feeling for many, many years. DON HENLEY and the EAGLES are simply awe-inspiring. Even today, this song still evokes great memories for me, and since it’s also a song about questioning the past, this track fits perfectly into our times. I’m proud that we recorded it, and maybe it will be part of a show soon. People will love it and then share memories with this, our version!”
 
Watch the official visualizer video below.
Stream "The Boys Of Summer": https://brainstorm.rpm.link/theboysPR
 
But the metal world doesn’t have to worry - the band are far from resting on their latest laurels: Behind the curtain, BRAINSTORM have been working on extending their 2025/2026 Plague Of Rats touring cycle, and the announcement of more live dates following their confirmation for the next edition of Summer Breeze Open Air (Dinkelsbühl, Germany) is really just a matter of time… Stay tuned!

BRAINSTORM remain a vital force in the metal scene, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern influences in their latest work, Plague Of Rats. Drawing inspiration from the rich and mystical narratives of ancient Indian civilization, this album delivers an energetic line-up of tracks devoid of slow songs or ballads, fully embodying the band’s dynamic and robust metal style. Expertly crafted with the collaboration of Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann (ORDEN OGAN, ANGUS McSIX) for mixing and mastering at Greenman Studios, and featuring striking artwork by Gyula Havancsák (DESTRUCTION, KREATOR, GRAVE DIGGER etc.) and photography by Alex Kühr, Plague Of Rats offers ten compelling new tracks that transport listeners to the captivating worlds of India and beyond.
 
Order/stream Plague Of Rats: https://brainstorm.rpm.link/plagueofratsPR

About BRAINSTORM
BRAINSTORM look back on an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debutHungry, the band have continued to develop and to consolidate their position in the international metal scene with albums like Metus Mortis [2001], Soul Temptation [2003], Liquid Monster [2005], and most recently Midnight Ghost [2018] and Wall Of Skulls [2021]. They have toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, but instead of resting on their laurels, they are more determined than ever and setting new milestones with their brand new album Plague Of Rats.

BRAINSTORM are:
Andy B. Franck | vocals
Torsten Ihlenfeld | guitars
Milan Loncaric | guitars
Dieter Bernert | drums
 
More on BRAINSTORM:
brainstorm-web.net | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | RPM

KITTIE Announce Spit XXV EP; Celebrating 25th Anniversary of Landmark Debut Album

Canadian heavy music pioneers Kittie mark a quarter-century milestone with the announcement of Spit XXV, a four-track EP celebrating the 25th anniversary of their gold-certified debut album. The collection features freshly updated and re-recorded versions of four of the albums biggest tracks, "Brackish," "Charlotte," "Do You Think I'm A Whore" and the title track "Spit ," all produced, once again, by Garth Richardson who helmed the original 1999 sessions at EMAC Studios. The EP arrives September 19th via Sumerian Records, with the brand new version of the title track, "Spit XXV" available today across all streaming platforms. Listen HERE and watch the official music video below. Pre-save the EP HERE.

Speaking about the milestone project, Kittie vocalist/guitarist Morgan Lander reflects: 

"It's hard to believe that 25 years after its release, and almost 30 years since Kittie began, people are still talking about Spit. There is something truly unexplainable in why our debut album is still resonating with people, finding a new audience and has had such a lasting impact on so many. Reimagining some of these classic songs for the 25th anniversary of 'Spit' was a lot of fun and a true testament to their longevity. It reveals just how relevant in the musical landscape they still are today. We were honoured to work with Garth again where it all began after more than 2 decades, and doing so was a cool way to pay homage to the past while updating these songs with a modern sound, bringing them into the future."

Released January 11, 2000, Kittie's debut full-length album, Spit transformed them from four Canadian teenagers into international heavyweights, achieving gold certification with over 660,000 US sales. The album became a defining moment for women in heavy music, with its aggressive sound and uncompromising attitude proving that metal made by women could achieve both critical respect and commercial success during nu-metal's completely male-dominated peak era.

The original Spit earned critical recognition from Rolling Stone, who ranked the title track #82 on their "100 Greatest Heavy Metal Songs of All Time" in 2023. The album's influence continues rippling through generations of musicians, with artists like Serena Cherry of Svalbard crediting it as "the reason she became a metal musician," while experimental artist Poppy covered the title track in 2023.

The Spit XXV EP arrives as Kittie continues their triumphant second chapter following 2024's critically acclaimed comeback album Fire, their first new material in 13 years. The album reached #13 on UK Rock & Metal Albums charts and #20 on Billboard Top Album Sales, while single "We Are Shadows" became the band's highest-charting song on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Airplay chart at #20. The album earned the band a 2025 Juno Award nomination for Metal/Hard Music Album of the Year, confirming their continued artistic evolution.

Reuniting with Richardson again proved both nostalgic and revelatory for the band, who last collaborated with the producer during their breakthrough era. The reunion has allowed Kittie to approach these foundational songs with two and a half decades of musical growth while maintaining the raw power that made them revolutionary.

Since returning from their hiatus in 2022, Kittie has experienced a remarkable resurgence across demographics, with their 784,700 monthly Spotify listeners spanning longtime fans and new generations discovering their music through social media. Their performances at major festivals including Sick New World, Welcome to Rockville, and Sonic Temple have demonstrated the band's enduring live power, while their successful 2024 North American headline tour proved their enduring and undeniable ability to command stages as headliners.

The Spit XXV EP is proof of Spit's lasting relevance and Kittie's evolution as artists. Twenty-five years after four teenagers from Ontario redefined who belonged in heavy music's most aggressive spaces, Kittie continue creating pathways for others while cementing their legacy as genuine pioneers.

ABOUT KITTIE

When you discovered Canadian heavy music pioneers Kittie has a direct influence on how you see them. For those on board from the beginning with Spit in 2000, Kittie was part of nu-metal's explosive rise. Through later albums including Oracle (2001), In The Black (2009), and I've Failed You (2011), the band evolved into something far more sinister, viewed as a serious metal outfit. After a prolonged hiatus broken only by a 2017 hometown show and 2018's documentary Kittie: Origins/Evolutions, the band returned in 2022 following festival offers including Sick New World.

12.6 million career streams later, vocalist/guitarist Morgan Lander, drummer/backing vocalist Mercedes Lander, guitarist Tara McLeod, and bassist Ivy Vujic maintain that Kittie never broke up because it remains ingrained in their identity. Their 2024 album Fire, produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Rush, Alice In Chains), marked their triumphant return with renewed fury and unfathomable sonic brutality. As Kittie now pay homage to their past whilst also bringing it firmly into the present day, with the new Spit XXV EP, the new era of Kittie continues to blaze forth, illuminating the way as they take their rightful place as torchbearers for heavy music.

Kittie are

Morgan Lander (vox/guitar)

Mercedes Lander (drums/backing vox)

Tara McLeod (guitar)

Ivy Vujic (bass)

TOMBS Unveils Haunting New Single "The Sun Sets"

New Jersey experimental metal collective TOMBS is now unveiling a haunting new single, "The Sun Sets" which can be heard below.

TOMBS bassist Drew Murphy comments, "I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished on the album. I'm particularly proud of this song. It's definitely a standout track in my opinion. When I listen to this song I feel like it takes me on an epic journey that ends with being stranded in the middle of a very angry sea. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as we do."

"The Sun Sets" is taken from the band's upcoming studio album, 'Feral Darkness,' which will be released on October 17, 2025 via Redefining Darkness! The title track from the offering was previously released and can be heard HERE.

The band is not only returning with a new label, but also with a new sound! While 'Feral Darkness' still embraces TOMBS' black metal roots, it also explores the band's gothic, death rock side, creating the band's darkest and most haunting record to date!

Pre-orders for 'Feral Darkness' are now live via Bandcamp as well as via the Redefining Darkness store.

Formed in 2007, New Jersey-based experimental metal outfit TOMBS blends bleak, post-punk minimalism with the ferocious attack of sludge and haunting goth rock. TOMBS have established themselves as an act that's as committed to consistency as it is to growth, developing smoothly (but never predictably) over the course of their career.

TOMBS Lineup:

Mike Hill – guitar / vocals / synth

Justin Spaeth – drums / guitar

Andrew Murphy – Bass / guitar / vocals

Dan Higgins - guitar

Guest Musicians:

Sera Timms – vocals on "Nightland" (Black Mare, Black Math Horsemen, Ides of Gemini)

Cover Artist: Seldon Hunt

Recording and Mixing: Justin Spaeth

Mastering: Andreas Rosczyk

Photos: Mike Goncalves

Links:

Bandcamp

Facebook

Instagram

X

Spotify

Apple Music

YouTube

Carach Angren Announce 'The Cult of Kariba'

Since they crawled out from their curious vault in 2003, Carach Angren have mastered the dark art of composing symphonic, blackened ghost stories. Now into their third decade, on their upcoming EP, the Dutch masters of horror are returning to the source that inspired their first album. The Cult of Kariba reveals the hidden intent behind the resurrection of its titular sorceress. On lead single “Ik Kom Uit Het Graf” (I Emerge From the Grave), the mysterious Kariba returns with vengeance.

Watch the shocking music video for “Ik Kom Uit Het Graf” below.

The Cult of Kariba comes out October 17 on Season of Mist

Pre-order

https://orcd.co/carachangrenthecultofkariba

Pre-save

https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/6haPZ1Ex0DuzfaeGL9D3Fo?si=-wG2OmnQQUSlOetHuxywdw

The Cult of Kariba is both a return and a continuation. The EP expands on Carach Angren’s first album Lammendam by entwining the sinister figure of Kariba within the folk tale of the White Lady. “Ik Kom Uit Het Graf” (I Emerge from the Grave) - which is their first song written entirely in Dutch - follows a man who was poisoned by Kariba, only to be summoned centuries later by an errant cult ritual. What unfolds is so sinister, it could only be composed by this group of evil masterminds.      

The video for “Ik Kom Uit Het Graf” was produced and directed by Zoran Bihac.

THE HALO EFFECT - unveil new cover of Kent's classic "If You Were Here"

As the summer festival season winds down after a string of unforgettable performances, THE HALO EFFECT surprise fans with a brand-new release — a cover of the beloved 1997 hit 'If You Were Here' by Swedish alternative pop-rock icons Kent (originally released in Swedish as “Om du var här”).

Handpicked by bassist Peter Iwers, the track is a heartfelt tribute to a band that helped shape Sweden’s musical landscape. The Halo Effect’s rendition blends Mikael Stanne’s rich, emotive clean vocals with a hypnotic, pounding bass line and soaring melodic guitars, honoring the song’s essence while infusing it with the band’s signature sound.

Listen to 'If You Were Here' on all platforms: https://thehaloeffect.bfan.link/iywhsg

Watch the visualizer for 'If You Were Here' Below.

THE HALO EFFECT live:

29.08. RO Campulung Muscel – Posada Rock Festival 

30.08. GER Schramberg-Tennenbrom – Metalacker Festival  

21.11. BU Sofia – Joy Station 

22.11. TUR Istanbul – If Besiktas 

25.11. JP Osaka – Bigcat  

26.11. JP Tokio – Toyosu Pit 

29.11. FI Joensuu – Unholy Winterfest 

 

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

THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE Releases "Sea of Trees"

THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE provide another sonic space in which to dwell inside the uncomfortable and the emotional in the new single "Sea of Trees". The anonymous solo project has announced their new full-length album Suicide Forest, will arrive on September 26, 2025 via Drone Alone. 

"Sea of Trees," another name for Japan's Aokigahara Forest, is built around a single crushing riff, slowly embellished with lead parts that rise and twist like the restless spirits often imagined in that place. Following the release of the first single and title track "Suicide Forest," it continues the project's theme around an abstract tribute to those spaces where despair and silence meet. 

Written and recorded in solitude in a remote Welsh barn during winter 2024, Suicide Forest is an instrumental descent into psychological ruin, framed by loops of distorted guitar, subterranean bass, and meditative drones. The album’s eleven tracks move between suffocating sludge and eerie ambience, rooted in themes of trauma, detachment, and the long half-life of sorrow. There are no vocals. No catharsis. Just the sound of emotional erosion played at full volume.

The album was engineered and co-mixed by Mike Bannard at Safehouse Studios, Oxford, with mastering, artwork, and production handled by THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE themselves. The result is a record that feels more exorcism than expression—music created not for others, but in spite of everything.

Suicide Forest follows 2024’s Church Music for Satanists EP, which gained underground attention for its immersive gloom and hypnotic minimalism. The new album expands on that aesthetic while deepening its emotional range and sonic intensity.

About THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE:

THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE is an anonymous solo project from Oxford, England, crafting bleak, instrumental sludge and drone since 2023. With no vocals, no public identity, and no live appearances, the music exists in complete isolation: just distortion, repetition, and emotional exhaustion.

Emerging from the Welsh countryside with the debut EP Church Music for Satanists in early 2024, THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE quickly established a signature sound: hypnotic, heavy, and relentlessly minimal. The follow-up full-length, Suicide Forest, released by drone alone in 2025, pushed further into themes of anxiety, decay, and existential fatigue, blending guitar-driven doom with eerie drones and field-recorded interference.

Influenced by artists such as ELECTRIC WIZARD, SUNN O))), EARTH, and CARTER/TUTTI/VOID, the project explores psychological weight through slow repetition and spiritual dissonance. There are no lyrics because nothing more needs to be said. The riffs are the message.

For those drawn to the darker corners of sound, where catharsis is earned through endurance, THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE offers a solitary descent.

Connect with THE SORROW OF BEING IMMACULATE:
 

UK Alt-Punks KID KAPICHI Release New Single "Stainless Steel" + Lyric Video

UK alt-punks KID KAPICHI dawn a new age with the release of their new single “Stainless Steel,” a deeply personal track for frontman Jack Wilson. The new track arrives alongside an official lyric video, available below.

 

“I wrote the lyrics during a particularly difficult few months last year,” explains Jack. “I realized that I’m not invincible or immune from my own mental health issues, hence ‘I’m not made of stainless steel…’ It came about during one of the darkest periods of my life, and a lot of the songs written around that time feel like a blur or like they were written by someone else. Listening back to them now feels like advice given to me from my past self. It's comforting to know that I got out of that place and am doing better, but it’s also a stark reminder that you aren’t in control of when you may slip again.”

 

Jack continues, “'Stainless Steel' also felt like a new direction for us; slowing things down and stripping things back after years of sensing that 'more is more'. It finally felt like less could be...”

Watch the Lyric Video for "Stainless Steel"

Produced by Mike Horner & Ben Beetham alongside KID KAPICHI, and mixed by George Perks, “Stainless Steel” is the band’s first single since the departure of longstanding friends and co-conspirators, guitarist Ben Beetham and drummer George MacDonald, marking the turning of a new page.

 

Since coming together a decade ago in Hastings, UK, KID KAPICHI have always been more brotherhood than band; like-minded musicians bound together by the belief that music and message can happily co-exist, and that being proud of where you’re from should in no way limit your ambition or narrow your view of the world.

 

New line-up details will be announced shortly.

Stream / Listen to "Stainless Steel" HERE

Meanwhile, KK have confirmed an extensive UK headline tour for October / November 2025. These “up-close & personal” shows will see the new line-up taking to the road for the very first time.

A number of UK festival appearances are also in place for August, preceded by a warm-up headline show in Bristol.

AGENBITE MISERY - Remorse of Conscience

AGENBITE MISERY is a New Hampshire-based trio whose debut album Remorse of Conscience is one of the most ambitious concept records to emerge from the modern extreme metal underground. Formed in late 2022 by guitarist Sam Graff, bassist Cam Netland, and drummer Adam Richards, the band began with a deceptively simple idea: to adapt James Joyce’s Ulysses into an experimental metal album. What emerged from that idea is a 55-minute odyssey of layered sonic aggression and literary depth, an album that blends blackened sludge, dissonant death metal, post-punk, ambient drone, and more into a singular, genre-defying statement of purpose.

The name AGENBITE MISERY is itself a reflection of the band’s literary roots, pulled from a line in Ulysses that references the 14th-century English devotional text Agenbite of Inwit. The phrase, literally “again-bite of inner wit,” or modernized as “remorse of conscience," became the perfect thematic and philosophical framework for an album steeped in grief, alienation, and the search for meaning in modern life. The band’s name was chosen because it reflects the deep, biting sorrow that pervades the novel and their music. Though the original pronunciation might have been “ah-jehn-bite,” the band opts for a harder, contemporary “ae-ghen-bite” as a nod to their mission of dragging ancient texts into the present.

Remorse of Conscience was written over the course of 2023 and recorded in 2024, entirely self-produced by the band, with mixing by Eric Sauter and mastering by Brad Boatright. The recording sessions were a direct extension of the trio’s collaborative ethos: a commitment to honesty, maximalism, and transformation. Each of the album’s eight songs adapts a chapter from Ulysses, using lyrics pulled directly from Joyce’s prose and reshaping them into brutal, beautiful sonic forms. The band sees each track not merely as a song but as a new translation, an attempt to convert stream-of-consciousness literature into aural energy.

The album opens with "Telemachean Echoes," a short, grinding burst of power violence and hardcore chaos that adapts the novel’s opening scene: Stephen Daedalus waking from a bitter dream of guilt and loss. The lyrics, shouted and whispered, move from internal shame to furious defiance: “Hyperborean scrotum tightening mother killer” to the repeated cry of “Let me be and let me live, Agenbite of Inwit.” It’s a blistering introduction to the world AGENBITE MISERY has constructed.

From there, the album spirals into "Cascara Sagrada," a disorienting piece of blackened death metal that explores the quiet horror of Leopold Bloom’s morning routine. Built on warped time signatures, sliding guitars, and sections that move from Slint-inspired indie to full-blown noise assault, the song captures the mundane terror at the heart of Bloom’s lonely life. Lyrics range from meditations on defecation to biblical hallucinations: “Captivity to captivity, multiplying dying being born everywhere, the grey sunken cunt of the world.”

The centerpiece of the album’s first half is the 13-minute "A Charitable View of Temporary Insanity," a devastating doom-sludge epic based on Bloom’s experience at a funeral. Lurching between minimal ambient textures and towering funeral doom riffs, the song reflects on loss, failure, and the strange bureaucracy of death. The vocals echo with grief: “If little Rudy lived, if I had seen him grown, my son, me and his eyes,” while the final line offers a glimmer of hope: “The blood sinking in gives earth new life.”

At the edge of genre, "Whatness of Allhorse" reimagines post-punk and industrial through a metal lens. With deadpan vocals, massive drum machines, horror-synth textures, and a blackgaze-style climax, the track adapts a scene where Stephen Daedalus debates Shakespearean theory with literary elites. The chaotic freedom of that conversation translates into a song full of bold choices and layered absurdity. “He left her, and gained the world of man,” we hear before the song explodes into shimmering tremolo guitars and a final scream: “But I’ll survive.”

"Bellwether and Swine" brings the record back to pure metal, a pummeling, riff-driven anthem inspired by Bloom’s argument with a xenophobic Irish nationalist. The song weaponizes the tropes of epic metal to mock toxic patriotism, stacking sludgy power chords over blast beats, while spoken word passages echo Old Testament imagery. The narrator’s bile is palpable: “Begob, he got as far as the door. Begob, always some bloody clown or other.”

With "Circe," the band returns to black metal, this time with a psychedelic bent. The chapter in Ulysses this track adapts is a hallucinatory descent into Dublin’s red-light district. The song mimics this spiral with hypnotic guitar lines, overlapping time signatures, and an atmosphere of dread. At the climax, we’re given one of the novel’s most haunting images: “A white lambkin peeps out of his waistcoat pocket.” It’s a fever dream of guilt and memory.

"The Twice-Charred Paths of Musing Disciples" offers a brief, contemplative interlude. Inspired by the penultimate chapter of Ulysses, the piece uses dungeon synth textures and ambient layering to conjure the quiet moment when Bloom invites Stephen to stay the night, and is turned down. The central melodic motif is taken from actual sheet music printed in the text, adapted into a modern drone setting.

The record closes with the monolithic "Mnesterophonia," a sprawling, droning epic that mirrors the novel’s final chapter, told from Molly Bloom’s perspective. Drawing on indie rock, doom, and freeform noise, the track builds from intimate to immense. The lyrics pull from Molly’s internal monologue as she drifts into sleep: “When I put the rose in my hair and how he kissed me and I thought well as well him as another…” The final lines of both book and album, “Yes, I will, Yes”, are screamed over a wall of sound, sealing the record with one of the most powerful emotional moments in modernist literature.

Though Remorse of Conscience is steeped in literary references, its emotional core is universal. At every turn, AGENBITE MISERY seeks to translate not just words but the raw human experience: grief, desire, disconnection, hope. In doing so, they’ve created something greater than a concept album, it’s a reinvention of what metal can do.

There is no other band like AGENBITE MISERY, and no album like Remorse of Conscience. This is a project that refuses to compromise, refuses to simplify, and refuses to be easily categorized. Instead, it dares to ask the same question Ulysses once did: can we still find truth, beauty, or meaning in the wreckage of the modern world? And their answer, it seems, is a resounding Yes. Yes, we will. Yes.

About AGENBITE MISERY:

AGENBITE MISERY is a New Hampshire-based trio that fuses literary ambition with the visceral force of experimental metal. Formed in 2022 by guitarist Sam Graff, bassist Cam Netland, and drummer Adam Richards, the band emerged from a shared academic background in literature and a mutual devotion to the most extreme and boundary-pushing corners of heavy music.

At its core, AGENBITE MISERY is a project rooted in transformation. Their work doesn’t merely incorporate influences, it dismantles them, reshapes them, and recontextualizes them within a vision that is as cerebral as it is punishing. Their sound weaves together elements of black metal, sludge, death metal, post-punk, ambient, and noise rock, unified not by style but by intent: to confront, to immerse, and to challenge.

Individually, the members bring a history of musical experimentation: Sam Graff and Adam Richards were longtime collaborators in the avant-garde project UNDER GREEN SUNS and the Boston metalcore outfit VICARIUM, while Cam Netland previously fronted the Connecticut stoner/black metal band COAGULATE. Together, they’ve forged something entirely distinct, a collective voice that draws from their diverse histories but refuses to be defined by any one genre or scene.

AGENBITE MISERY exists at the edge of metal and the margins of modern art, translating abstract ideas into concrete sound with unrelenting force. Whether performing live or recording in isolation, their ethos remains constant: dig deeper, aim higher, and never repeat what has already been done.

AGENBITE MISERY is:

Sam Graff – Guitars / Vocals / Synth
Cam Netland – Bass / Vocals
Adam Richards – Drums / Vocals

Connect with AGENBITE MISERY:

STEVE GORDON MIA Shares Stories Behind Recording and Writing His First Two Singles

“We Go To War (feat. Ray West)” introduced STEVE GORDON MIA's hard rock firepower. With his latest single “Pharaoh Lives”, Steve Gordon proves that even without words, the guitar alone can lead the charge. Now Steve Gordon shares some stories behind the songs.

First up, Steve Gordon talks about the meaning behind his song "We Go To War (feat. Ray West)". He clarifies that the song is about relationships and not actual war. He explains that the song is about the feeling of being with a partner so much that you sometimes feel like you're going crazy and need a minute to yourself. He reiterates that it's "real life", not "real war".

Steve Gordon follows by talking about his instrumental rock track titled "Pharaoh Lives". He explains that he didn't name the track until it was completely finished because it didn't have any lyrics to draw the title from. He decided on the name after listening to the track and feeling that the beginning of the song sounded "a little Egyptian". He mentions his personal interest in the subject, including watching documentaries on King Tut and lost Egyptian treasures. Since pharaohs no longer exist, he felt that his pharaoh "lives in that song", leading to the title "Pharaoh Lives".

YouTube Playlist Sharing the Stories: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjpfBXV8ojBi07RZC0Fpe0_bRrQnD11nX

 

Listen to WE GO TO WAR BELOW.

Listen to PHARAOH LIVES: https://hypeddit.com/stevegordonmia/pharaohlives

Known for his work on more than 50 Gold and Platinum albums alongside legends like Bon Jovi, Prince, Rob Thomas, James Ingram, Rita Marley, Betty Wright, Motley Crüe / 2 Live Crew, Morgan Wallen, Najee, Donell Jones, Natalie Cole, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, Matt Kramer (Saigon Kick), Inner Circle, Brian Howe (Bad Company), Betty Wright, Phyllis Hyman, Regina Belle, Tito Jackson, Steve Gordon’s latest work proves he’s not just a master behind the scenes — he’s a commanding creative force in his own right.

Spread Eagle's Ray West on working with Steve Gordon, "Collaborating with my talented compadre Steve Gordon is all about the joy of making cool music, while having way too much fun. Steve's got a high energy personality, and an approach to writing that is infectious, not to mention a maniacal  sense of humor that will have you laughing so hard, your face will hurt.

Those who know his studio credits know how good his ears are, but as a musician he's what I call "A two headed beast guitar player" because he not only writes the coolest solo's, he's also gifted with a great sense of rhythm, which for me is the icing on the cake."

About Steve Gordon

Steve Gordon has contributed guitar work to some of the most iconic recordings & movie soundtracks of the past three decades. A seasoned studio and stage veteran, he’s worked with artists spanning Rob Thomas, Phil Collins, Aretha Franklin, Rod Stewart, Howard Hewett, Rita Marley, Wu-Tang Clan, and many more. As Steve Gordon MIA, he now channels that legacy into a solo career that fuses old-school power with modern cinematic metal.

 
Links to Website and All Socials 

https://stevegordonmia.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576615768613

https://www.instagram.com/stevegordon_mia

https://youtube.com/@stevegordon1562

OBSIDIAN TONGUE Announces West Coast Headliner

Progressive black metal duo OBSIDIAN TONGUE will be embarking on a West Coast U.S. headliner next month! The trek will kick off in Seattle, WA on September 18 and will dominate 10 cities until the final stop in Spring Valley, CA on September 27. The tour will not only celebrate the release of OBSIDIAN TONGUE's latest studio album, 'Eclipsing Worlds of Scorn." The full itinerary can be found below!

'Eclipsing Worlds of Scorn,' which is out now via Profound Lore Records and can be ordered HERE.

Comprised of multi-instrumentalist Brendan Hayter (Thrawsunblat/Obsequiae live) and drummer Raymond Capizzo (Falls Of Rauros/Panopticon live), OBSIDIAN TONGUE returned to the all-analog Mystic Valley Studio, where their first two records were made, to print their Covid-era home sessions onto two-inch tape. Mixed and mastered in the analog domain as well by Alex Garcia-Rivera, 'Eclipsing Worlds of Scorn' boasts a unique and unmistakable sonic force amidst the modern digital landscape; created with a total absence of click tracks, quantization, or sound replacement of any kind. 

OBSIDIAN TONGUE Tour Dates:

09/18: Seattle, WA @ BYC

09/19: Eugene, OR @ John Henry's

09/20: Portland, OR @ High Water Mark 

09/21: Olympia, WA @ The Crypt

09/22: Medford, OR @ Rockafairy Express

09/23: Nevada City, NV @ The Owl Cave

09/24: Santa Rosa, CA @ The Shop

09/25: Fresno, CA @ Summer Fox Brewing

09/26: Los Angeles, CA @ Five Star Bar 

09/27: Spring Valley, CA @ The Bancroft

Sixteen years into the band’s existence, Obsidian Tongue clearly show no signs of running out of new ways to alter their sound - song by song, album by album.

Lineup:

Brendan Hayter - Guitar, Vocals, Bass, Synth

Raymond Capizzo - Drums

Recorded @ Mystic Valley Studio

Mixed & Mastered by Alex Garcia-Rivera

Photos by: Stephanie Sintra

Pre-Orders: https://linktr.ee/obsidiantongue

Recommended for Fans Of: Agalloch, Blut Aus Nord, Dødheimsgard, Wolves in the Throne Room

Links:

Instagram

Facebook

Apple Music

Spotify

Bandcamp

Cultus Black Announce Debut Headlining Tour, “The Autumn Horror Road Show” ​   

Cultus Black, the enigmatic masked collective known for their unsettling stage presence, has officially announced their debut headlining tour “The Autumn Horror Road Show”. Kicking off October 3rd, the band will unleash their signature blend of metalcore and nu-metal across the east coast —just in time for the Halloween season.

 

Over the past few years, Cultus Black has earned a reputation for their chaotic and theatrical live shows while touring alongside heavyweights such as Static-X, Fear Factory, Combichrist, and Vampires Everywhere. Now, they’re stepping into the spotlight with an immersive headline experience of their own.

 

Joining "The Autumn Horror Road Show" on select dates are industrial-metal pioneers Crossbreed, adding even more intensity to an already unforgettable night.

 

If you’re craving an intense live show with unsettling visuals and heavy music…then this is the tour for you.

Tickets and full tour dates are available now at www.cultusblack.com

 

October 3rd- Capital city Music Hall -Harrisburg, Pa

October 4th - The foundry - Cleveland, Oh

October 5th - The Spot - Roanoke, VA

October 8th - The Orpheum - Ybor city, FL

October 9th - Conduit - Winter Park, FL

October 10th - Ground Zero - SC

October 11th - Chapel of Bones - Raleigh, NC

Anciients Release New Video for "Is It Your God"

After almost a decade of soul searching through the Canadian wilderness, Anciients are finally returning to the U.S. Starting next week, the heavy, heady and heartfelt Canucks will guide neighboring metal legions through the many peaks of their latest JUNO Award-winning album Beyond the Reach of the Sun. During this month-long trek, the band will blaze across both coasts and the Southwest with special stops down south around ProgPower USA.

"It's been a long time coming", frontman Kenny Cook says, "We look forward to seeing our American fans out on the road!"

As they prepare to hit the road hard, today, Anciients are releasing a new video for the one track off Beyond the Reach of the Sun that really tested their mettle. "Is It Your God" questions the existence of a higher power with grungy grooves and faith-shaking death growls. But its heavenly fusion of soulful leads, cosmic keys and mind-blowing riffs prove why this band are guiding lights for progressive metal.

"This song asks how someone can believe in a higher power when given a life full of despair and anguish", Cook says. "Do you continue to restrict your happiness while living this life, in hopes of joy for eternity? Or do you question whether it's all for nothing?"

Watch the video for "Is It Your God" below.

Get tickets for Anciients U.S. Tour
https://www.season-of-mist.com/bands/anciients/

Quest Beyond Our Minds 2025 U.S. Tour
with Dawn of Ouroboros, Armed for Apocalypse, Nott and Exist

August 27 - Seattle, WA @ Substation [TICKETS]*
August 28 - Portland, OR @ Dante's [TICKETS]*
August 29 - Boise, ID @ The Shredder [TICKETS]**
August 30 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Aces High Saloon [TICKETS]**
August 31 - Colorado Springs, CO @ What's Left Records [TICKETS]**
September 2 - Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th Street [TICKETS]**
September 4 - Atlanta, GA @ ProgPower USA [TICKETS]
September 5 - Gastonia, NC @ The Rooster [TICKETS]***
September 6 - New Orleans, LA @ No Dice [TICKETS]***
September 7 - Austin, TX @ Come And Take It [TICKETS]***
September 8 - Houston, TX @ Pub 529 [TICKETS]****
September 9 - Dallas, TX @ TX Tea Room [TICKETS]****
September 11 - Phoenix, AZ @ Nile Underground [TICKETS]*****
September 12 - San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick [TICKETS]*****
September 13 - Los Angeles, CA @ Knucklehead [TICKETS]*****
September 14 - San Francisco, CA @ Thee Parkside [TICKETS]*****
September 16 - Sacramento, CA @ Cafe Colonel [TICKETS]*****
September 17 - Reno, NV @ The Cellar*****
September 18 - Eugene, OR @ John Henry's [TICKETS]******
September 19 - Richland, WA @ Ray's Golden Lion [TICKETS]******
September 20 - Bellingham, WA,@ The Shakedown [TICKETS]******
* w/ Dawn of Ouroboros + Nott
** w/ Dawn of Ouroboros
*** w/ Dawn of Ouroboros + Exist
**** w/ Armed for Apocalypse + Exist
***** w/ Armed for Apocalyspe
****** w/ Armed for Apocalyspe + Nott

Beyond the Reach of the Sun is available now on Season of Mist.

Order & Stream
https://orcd.co/anciientsbeyondthereachofthesun

With all being said and done, Anciients have returned! They stand ready to ascend the prog metal ladder and get back to doing what they do best with a weighty and dense, but wholly accessible, album. It’s a collection of ten songs that possesses the ability to have those furiously banging heads also tapping into their power of self-reflection and contemplation to ponder the finality of existence, the value of life and their place in the universe.  

“Totally! We’re going to take as many of the opportunities that come to us. The hiatus is over and I think with the new members and everyone being on the same page we’re ready to get out there as soon as possible. We missed out on a huge block after the last record, so we’ve got to make up for lost time. Now that everyone is happy and healthy, we plan to hit it hard.”


Lineup
Kenny Cook (vocals, guitar)
Mike Hannay (drums) 
Brock MacInnes (rhythm guitar)
Rory O'Brien (bass)

Guest musicians
Justin Hagberg plays keyboard on "Forbidden Sanctuary", "Is It Your God", "Melt the Crown", "Candescence", "In the Absence of Wisdom".

Jess Gander plays synths on "Candescence" and "Cloak of the Vast and Black".

Recording studio
Rain City Recorders

Producer / sound engineer
Jesse Gander
Assisted by Szymon Wojciech

Mastering studio and engineer
Stu McKillop @ Rain City Mastering

Mixing studio and engineer
Jesse Gander Rain City Recorders

Cover artwork artist 
Adam Burke @ Nightjar Illustrations

Bio
Kevin Stewart-Panko

Pre-order & Stream:https://orcd.co/anciientsbeyondthereachofthesun


Follow Anciients
https://anciientriffs.bandcamp.com/album/beyond-the-reach-of-the-sun
https://www.facebook.com/ANCIIENTSRIFFS
https://www.instagram.com/anciients/
https://twitter.com/ANCIIENTS
https://www.youtube.com/user/ANCIIENTS
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/anciients/603538280
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3YQOcYukzO6U1MjFcavDUE?si=4QWahfZxQjOmAI7nYrav6g&nd=1&dlsi=0142e5e62ae54105

PUSHING VERONICA Drop the Official Video For Their Single "WASTED"

Prepare to get obliterated in the best way possible—PUSHING VERONICA is back with a vengeance, dropping their blistering new single "WASTED", a riotous, no-holds-barred anthem drenched in fury, hooks, and unapologetic chaos. The track is now available on all major streaming platforms.

"WASTED," by PUSHING VERONICA

is a raw and raging punk anthem for anyone who's ever been ghosted after an interview, told they’re “not the right fit,” or handed a rejection email five minutes after applying. With razor-sharp guitars and lyrics that spit in the face of corporate nonsense, this song sets the tone for defiance, desperation, and dark humor.

BIO

SoCal alt-rock powerhouse

PUSHING VERONICA first emerged as the brainchild of then-16 year old frontman

Julien Silvås, a lifelong musician who’d already established himself on the scene via a

Warped Tour appearance with his previous band, The Local Rebellion. Fixated on a mission to herald a renaissance in the worlds of pop-punk and rock, Julien continued to grow the lineup — currently consisting of original founding member and bassist Noah Rozansky, guitarist Hunter Kubat, guitarist Daniel Flores and drummer Jason Maser.

Known for their uniquely catchy signature sound, PUSHING VERONICA build on the groundwork laid by legends from Queens of the Stone Ageand Rage Against the Machine to Foo Fighters, Nirvana, The Offspring and beyond with an uninhibitedly irreverent approach. Lauded by major outlets like Alternative Press for their “infectious and high-spirited Green Day-like stylings”, the band have continued to grow their diverse and loyal fanbase over 4 US tours and a slew of other electric live performances to date.

Following a string of achievements including collaborating with renowned directors Dean Karr and Brian Cox on music videos and working with Grammy-winning producer Dave Schiffman, PUSHING VERONICA'S momentum is now at an all-time high as they prepare for their most ambitious year yet.

CHAOSEUM RETURN WITH NEW HARD-HITTING ALBUM, 'LIFE 4 SALE'

The fast-rising Swiss nu-metal / metalcore band, Chaoseum, will soon be offering up their sixth release overall, 'Life 4 Sale.' Released on September 19, the ten-track LP shows the band further focusing and perfecting the sound laid down on such earlier albums as 2022's 'The Third Eye' and 2020's 'Second Life.'
 
Comprised of members  CK Smile – vocals, Loïc Duruz – guitars, bass, Valery Veings – guitars, and Greg Turini – drums, Chaoseum originally formed 2018 in Lausanne (Switzerland), and have created a buzz by sharing the stage with such renowned/respected metal acts as Soulfly, Tarja, Eluveitie, Five Finger Death Punch, Metallica and Sabaton.
 
And their latest album features some of the group's most revealing lyrics yet. Case in point, "Freakin' Head," which Smile recalls, "was written at a time when I was fed up with explaining, or even justifying, my depressive state." Additionally, the title track, which, "is about my religious past." And also, "The Failure," which is "about abandonment, about the extreme confusion it causes when a child is too young to understand what's happening to them." 
 
Presale for the album will begin in early September via this link: chaoseumstore.com
 
And two songs have already been issued as videos:
 
Freakin' Head:
 
https://youtu.be/bpOBfpZTUG4?si=Mk5uG_G0uB_A6RvU
 
Watch “Life 4 Sale” Below

Chaoseum's first album 'First Step To Hell' contained 11 songs and was released in September of 2018. In February 2019, Chaoseum joined Soulfly for a US tour. Upon their return, a limited-edition live album was recorded at a band's concert with Eluveitie. It was released under the name 'Live In Hell - Les Docks Lausanne 2019.' In September of 2019, the band joined Tarja (ex-Nightwish) for a tour in Russia: 'Raw Russian Tour 2019.'
 
Representing the Xvive wireless gear brand, Chaoseum went to Los Angeles to perform at the NAMM "the largest music trade show." There, the band also took the opportunity to play at the legendary Whisky a Go Go.  
 
On September 25, 2020, Chaoseum released its 2nd studio album 'Second Life,' with the standout track, "Smile Again," reaching over 13 million views on YouTube.  
 
In June 2021, during COVID-19, the band worked on an acoustic album, 'Second Skin,' as well as on two music videos which achieved great success.  
 
In June 2022, Chaoseum performed at the 'Out in the Green' festival in Frauenfeld (CH) together with Eluveitie, Five Finger Death Punch, Sabaton and Metallica. A few months after, in September, the band flew to the US headlining the "Arctic Chaos Tour", and their fourth studio album 'The Third Eye' was released in November 2022.
 
Their third studio album 'The Third Eye' was released in November 2022.    
 
In February 2024, the group welcomed Kevin Sink on guitar and Finn Broker on bass to complete the core lineup consisting of CK Smile on vocals, Valery Veings on guitar, and Greg Turini on drums. This lineup quickly performed on stage during the "The Eye On Tour" in May 2024.    
 
In September 2024, Chaoseum joined, once again, Tarja Turunen and for the first time Marko Hietala for the "Living The Dream Together" tour!  
 
And on September 19, 2025, the next chapter of Chaoseum will be unveiled, with the arrival of 'Life 4 Sale.'

Dirkschneider And The Old Gang "Babylon"

Comprised of a dynamic collective of vocalists and musicians, DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (DATOG) embark on a thrilling voyage across rock and metal realms in Babylon. The new album is set to make waves on October 3, 2025, released via Reigning Phoenix Music.

The high energy and catchy chorus hook of "It Takes Two To Tango" kicks off the album with a rock 'n' roll party atmosphere. Babylon's title track is a dramatic journey through entwining guitar leads, powerful vocals with a seductive undertone. Heavy distortion announces the arrival of "Hellbreaker". Brutal, dark and rhythmic, DATOG well and truly put the pedal to the metal. Picking up the pace with "Time To Listen", the increased intensity of the guitar driven sound is certain to be a fan favourite. 

"Strangers In Paradise" is the first of Babylon's haunting rock ballads. Manuela’s soulful voice and delicate piano melodies lead the track, joined by Peter and Udo, before returning to rock realms. "Strangers In Paradise" attains further dimensions with the inclusion of a flamenco-style guitar performance. "Dead Man's Head" makes a swift return to traditional metal realms with 70s-esque organ harking back to metal's early era. Explosive riffs and thunderous chugging mark "The Law Of A Madman". It's a compelling song with an anthemic chorus hook and lashings of Mathias’ guitar solo goodness. "Metal Sons" remains in the heavier side of DATOG's creativity unveiling a bombastic display of heavy fury. 

The theatrical powerhouse performance that is "Propaganda" sees an onslaught of soaring vocals, driving instrumentation and riffs galore. Manuela’s ethereal vocals are accompanied by captivating acoustic guitar melodies in the album's second ballad, "Blindfold". The song ebbs and flows between light and shade ultimately combining to the two styles into a dreamy offering. DATOG unleash the beast with "Batter The Power", through a ferocious groove-laden display. Babylon reaches its end with the impressive "Beyond The End Of Time". Just under 8 minutes in length, this track travels through an alluring array of stylistic influences, and allows each member's distinctive character to shine through. 

Anything but strangers to the rock and metal world, Udo Dirkschneider, Peter Baltes, Stefan Kaufmann, Mathias Dieth, Sven Dirkschneider and Manuela Bibert deliver a tight, dynamic, and passionately crafted performance throughout the album Babylon, that was superbly captured within the walls of the legendary Dierks Studios. 

About DATOG
DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (DATOG) was originally launched in 2020 as a one-off charity project, but quickly developed a momentum of its own and formed into a band consisting of Udo Dirkschneider (vocals; ACCEPT/U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER), Peter Baltes (bass, vocals; ACCEPT/U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER), Stefan Kaufmann (guitar; ACCEPT/U.D.O.), Mathias “Don” Dieth (guitar; SINNER/U.D.O.), Sven Dirkschneider (drums; U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER) and Manuela “Ella” Bibert (vocals). Between 2020 and 2021 their first three singles attracted a lot of attention, whereupon the band wrote more songs and recorded their debut album. With a unique vocal concept of three voices, powerful riffs and stylistic complexity, DATOG combine classic heavy metal with a modern, powerful production.
 
DATOG are:
Udo Dirkschneider | lead vocals
Peter Baltes | bass, lead & backing vocals
Manuela “Ella” Bibert | lead & backing vocals, keys
Stefan Kaufmann | guitars, backing vocals
Mathias “Don” Dieth | guitars, backing vocals
Sven Dirkschneider | drums, backing vocals

Set for release on October 3, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music, Babylon is now available for pre-order in a variety of stunning formats:

  • Limited Red, Gold & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl 

  • Limited Red Opaque & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl 

  • Gold Opaque Double Vinyl 

  • Deluxe Earbook Edition with CD and enhanced 36-page booklet 

  • Digipak CD featuring a 24-page booklet 

  • Jewelcase CD featuring a 24-page booklet 

Pre-orders are available now - secure your copy of this powerful statement from one of metal’s most iconic voices and this extraordinary band: https://datog.rpm.link/babylonPR

Celebrated NYC artist CHARLIE NIELAND unveils 'Win' (feat. spiritchild)', previewing new album

Following his latest masterpiece - 'The Ocean Understands' EP, acclaimed NYC songwriter-producer Charlie Nieland has announced that his forthcoming album'Stories From The Borderlines', set for release on October 24. The first offering from this atmospheric and imaginative collection is 'Win (feat. spiritchild)'. 

Defying expectations, 'Win' is a postpunk mini-epic that starts as a piano-led hymn, becomes an explosive jangling anthem and winds up with a spectacular turn by Staten Island-based activist / rapper spiritchild. This new music arrives on the trail of Nieland's recent 'The Ocean Understands' EP and videos for 'Redshift' and 'Drown', directed by multi-faceted NYC-based artist Hypnodoll.

"The material for 'Stories From The Borderlines' got its start in the NYC performance series The Bushwick Book Club in response to various literary sources. The lead single 'Win' is actually a song about surrender - “I just want you to win”,  written as part of Bushwick Book Club’s residency for Banned Book Week at the Kurt Vonnegut Library and Museum in Indianapolis, Indiana," says Charlie Nieland.

"I was struck by the fearful response to the coming-of-age YA novel "All Boys Aren’t Blue" by the young, gay, African-American author George M. Johnson, which was the second most banned book in 2023. Book banning ultimately backfires. The act of hiding something from ourselves forces discovery. It begs us to honor what we don’t yet understand. Our fragile self-created identities - especially those formed in opposition to our adversaries - dissolve in the bright light of our interdependence. Our shared divinity. In a flash, the chorus woke me up in the middle of the night. “Go ahead and take my place. Take a look at my face. This is how it begins”.

Nieland's backstory is extensive, having written, performed and produced music for decades. He has written for and produced such artists as Debbie Harry, Rufus Wainwright, Blondie and Scissor Sisters, as well as scoring the feature film 'The Safety of Objects' (with Glenn Close), Showtime's pilot episode of 'The L Word' 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.

Presenting a visceral blend of post punk, glam, dream pop and progressive rock, the forthcoming album also involves an appearance by keyboardist Joe McGinty (The Psychedelic Furs, Ryan Adams, Nada Surf, Polyvox). Atmospheric, with sweeping melodies and restless rhythms, these unique soundscapes promise an immersive journey, showcasing Nieland's continued evolution as an artist and producer. 

After 20 years with dreampop band Her Vanished Grace, Nieland established himself as a solo artist rich on nuanced songwriting and sonic exploration, releasing 'Ice Age' (2014), followed by 'Hopeful Monsters' (2016) and ‘Divisions' album (2021). Half of the literature-inspired duo Lusterlit with Susan Hwang, he also produces and co-hosts the 'An Embarrassment of Prog' podcast.

'Win (feat. spiritchild)' is available from digital music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and Bandcamp, where Nieland's latest EP 'The Ocean Understands' EP can also be found. The full 'Stories From The Borderlines' album, out on October 24, can now be pre-ordered.

SINGLE CREDITS 
'Win (feat. spiritchild)' written by Charlie Nieland and spiritchild



Recorded at Saturation Point Studios (Brooklyn, NY) from January 2023 to April 2025

Charlie Nieland - vocals, electric guitars, bass, piano, electric piano, virtual mellotrons and string machines, percussion
spiritchild - vocals
Billy Loose - drums

Produced, Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by Charlie Nieland
Cover Art by Hypnodoll™ 

© 2025 Athame Music, xspiritmentaleyez
Video for 'Win (feat. spiritchild) by Charlie Nieland
Videos for 'Redshift' and 'Drown' 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

Restraining Order Drop "Were You There" Visualizer

New England fivesome RESTRAINING ORDER — Pat Cozens [vocals], Dylan Tobia [guitar], Kyle Beaudreault [guitar], Jake Miller [guitar], Keith Freeman[bass], and Will Hirst [drums] — traffic in no nonsense hardcore punk. 

After amassing millions of streams, praise from Stereogum, Brooklyn Vegan, and more while regularly reducing venues to piles of ash, the group will deliver its third full-length Future Fortune on September 12. It marks the first release for Blue Grape Music, the band's new label home. Pre-order it here.

The band has shared the visualizer for new single "Were You There." Watch and listen below.

"A song about unconditional love, for the ones that are more than friends and more than interest, the people you are happy to have in your life," states Cozens about the song.

Restraining Order have a handful of local dates scheduled around the album release, as well as a tour supporting KOYO and Ben Quad this fall. All currently confirmed dates are below.

RESTRAINING ORDER LIVE:
9/11 — Amherst, MA — The Drake
9/12 —  Hamden, CT — Space Ballroom
9/13 — Massapequa, NY — VFW

WITH KOYO, BEN QUAD, + LEAVING TIME:
10/23 — Toronto, ON — Velvet Underground
10/24 — Cleveland, OH — Mahall's
10/25 — Detroit, MI — The Sanctuary
10/26 — Chicago, IL — Reggie's
10/28 — Milwaukee, WI — X Ray Arcade
10/29 — Des Moines, IA — Wooly's
10/31 — Denver, CO — Marquis
11/2 — Boise, ID — The Shredder
11/3 — Portland, OR — Mission Theatre
11/4 — Seattle, WA — The Vera Project
11/6 — Berkeley, CA — Cornerstone
11/7 — Los Angeles, CA — Lodge Room
11/8 — San Diego, CA — Voodoo Room
11/9 — Mesa, AZ — Rosetta Room
11/11 — San Antonio, TX — Paper Tiger
11/12 — Dallas, TX — Club Dada
11/14 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
11/15 — Orlando, FL — Vans Warped Tour
11/17 — Charlotte, NC — Amos Southend
11/18 — Richmond, VA — Canal Club
11/20 — Washington DC — Pearl Street
11/21 — Boston, MA — Arts at the Armory
11/22 — Philadelphia, PA — First Unitarian Church
11/23 — New York, NY — Racket

The album will be available in several exclusive vinyl variants as of September 26.

Emerging in 2017, Restraining Order hit their stride with 2019's This World Is Too Much. The latter spawned the fan favorite "Don't Really Think," which amassed over 1.1 million Spotify streams and counting. The 2023 follow-up, Locked In Time, incited tastemaker applause. Stereogum hailed it as "a great entry point for the present-day hardcore landscape" and New Noise Magazine celebrated how, "Restraining Order introduce a new flavor of hook-filled, catchy tracks." Plus, Revolver christened them one of "7 Bands Leading Massachusetts Hardcore's New Wave.”"Along the way, they shared stages with the likes of Angel Du$t, Citizen, Drug Church, Fiddlehead, Fucked Up, Kublai Khan TX, LustSickPuppy, and more. The group eventually caught the attention of Blue Grape Music in 2024 and signed to the label. 

‘Band Together Texas’ Rallies Over $8.5 Million in Funds for Central Texas Flood Relief

Notable Texas artists, actors and athletes joined Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas Sunday night for their “Band Together Texas” benefit concert, honoring the lives lost in the Central Texas floods, and celebrating the every day heroes and first responders who saved countless others. The event, which benefitted The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and Central Texas Community Foundation, raised over $8.5 million and counting.
 
The sold-out evening spanned nearly three hours and was livestreamed via iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, YouTube, Facebook and nugs.net, with a call to action directing fans to donate to continued relief efforts. 
 
Actor Matthew McConaughey opened with a monologue underscoring the importance of the event: “The devastating floods that took so many lives, businesses and homes last month broke a lot of hearts. As that day gets further away into the distance of our rearview mirror, it’s only natural that our concern and attention recede just like those flood waters—but we must remember, for the families who suffered, they are just beginning the lengthy journey to rebuild their lives.
 
​​"Tonight is about restoration… we are here to revive--Because even in the hardest times, we have to believe in the power of joy. So while we honor the heavy truths that brought us here, we will also celebrate the light that must continue to shine.”
 
“Thank you Austin, Texas for showing up tonight. Thank you, everybody, for tuning in and showing up for us. We are banding together as Texans tonight,” Lambert addressed the audience following her duet with McCollum on the George Strait classic, “True,” marking the first live performance of the evening. “It’s going to be a magical night of music, and for an amazing cause. My buddy Parker and I, we called each other right away and we asked, ‘What can we do? We can sing, so let’s go sing.’ And that’s what we’re doing tonight!”
 
Following Lambert’s performance of “Bluebird” and “The House That Built Me,” she introduced her friend, Red Dirt singer Wade Bowen, for a touching in memoriam honoring victims lost in last month’s floods. As Bowen sang an acoustic rendition of “A Beautiful World,” names, images and videos of flood victims flashed across the screen as the crowd remained silent, in a powerful moment that could be felt by viewers at home and in the arena alike. 
 
“I’d like to give a shout out to Miranda Lambert, she’s the whole reason all of this is going on,” McCollum shared as he took the stage to perform “Solid Gold Country” and “Handle On You.” “She texted me right away and asked, ‘What can we do?’ I said, ‘I’ll do anything I could ever possibly do to help these people.’ So, good on all of y’all for being here on a Sunday night. I’ve never been more proud to be born and raised in the great state of Texas than I am tonight.”

The full lineup of Texas talent joins together on-stage at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas on Sunday night, Aug. 17, for a triumphant final sing along of “On The Road Again” | Photo Credit: Jeff Johnson

Between the 29 songs played throughout the night, actor Dennis Quaid; former UT Longhorns coach Mack Brown and players Emmanuel Acho, Colt McCoy and Vince Young; MLB star and Houston native Roger Clemens; television host and Dallas native Chris Harrison; and Austin-based fashion designer Kendra Scott took pause to reflect on moments of remembrance, bravery and resiliency in the Hill Country.
 
Acho, who spoke with camp counselors from Camp Mystic on a recent episode of Uncomfortable Conversations with Emmanuel Acho, brought 19-year-old counselor Ainslie Bashara on-stage in a touching moment celebrating her heroic actions which saved 16 lives.
 
Honoring first responders, Scott paid tribute to public information officer for the Center Point Volunteer Fire Department, Razor Dobbs, and the Fire Chief, Charles Holt; while Harrison acknowledged the Texas Game Wardens in attendance. 
 
Reigning ACM Artist of the Decade Jason Aldean, who performed at the Moody Center on Saturday, Aug. 16, extended his stay, joining as a surprise guest after generously donating his stage and production crew. Taking the stage with an uptempo performance of “She’s Country,” Aldean then welcomed Lambert on-stage for a duet of “Amarillo Sky.”
 
“Thank you guys so much. Yeah, I had to stay an extra day here in Austin, I can’t think of a better cause to be here for than this,” Aldean shared. “Huge thank you to Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum for doing this tonight.”
 
“Jason was here last night, as you already know, but he left all of his stuff for us to use, and stayed an extra day to sing a song for us, so you’re an honorary Texan tonight, friend,” Lambert added.
 
Later, Brooks & Dunn’s Ronnie Dunn let music speak where words failed. “I tried to come up with something to say earlier. It was profound, it would do what it needs to do, but I don’t think there’s a song on Earth – no words, no rhyme, no reason – that can heal the pain, the suffering, the sorrow brought on by what’s happened here. So, I’m just going to share a story with you,” he concluded, before delving into his show-stopping performance of faith-based “I Believe” with The Levites Music Group, a choir comprised of members Shedrach Rowry Jonathan Davis, Kevin Overton-Hadnot, De’Juana Shaw, Kraven Rowry and Agnes Henry.
 
After Cody Johnson’s performance of his No. 1 hits “Dirt Cheap” and “Til You Can’t” – as well as a cover of “How Great Thou Art” –  the all-star roster of Texas talent including Lambert and McCollum, Ryan Bingham, Wade Bowen, Ronnie Dunn, Dylan Gossett, Jack Ingram, Johnson, Lyle Lovett, Lukas Nelson, Jon Randall and Randy Rogers joined together on-stage for a triumphant final sing along of “On The Road Again.”
 
Band Together Texas was made possible with the generous support of partners including WoodNext Foundation, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, John Paul & Eloise DeJoria Family Foundation, Woodforest National Bank, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Four Seasons Hotel Austin, H-E-B, Kendra Scott, Moody Center, Poncho, Tecovas, Uber and Whataburger.