INFERI Unleashes Music Video for Brutal Title Track from Upcoming Album, 'Heaven Wept'

Extreme death metal masters INFERI are now unleashing a brand new music video for the brutal title track of their upcoming new full-length, 'Heaven Wept,' which is due on April 10, 2026 via The Artisan Era! The clip features a montage of the band's live performances and candid behind-the-scenes footage, which were taken at various shows during INFERI's last few tours. The raucous video and single can now be found below.

INFERI comments, "It brings us great pleasure to present the title track of our upcoming album, 'Heaven Wept.' This was actually the first song we finished for the album, and it's crushing yet groovy atmosphere solidified the bedrock of theological horror we sought to build upon. Its also the first unreleased track we've ever played live. The video itself was filmed over three tours we did while writing and recording the album. It features some of our favorite venues from across the North American and Europe and encapsulates the vibe we strive to cultivate during our live shows."

'Heaven Wept' can be pre-order and pre-saved HERE.

In addition, INFERI will be joining DEFEATED SANITY as direct support during the band's upcoming North American spring tour. The run will feature additional support from New Zealand’s Organectomy on all dates while Excresence, Scasm, and Horrific Vision will appear on select stops. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets are available HERE.

INFERI will also be performing at producer Dave Otero's inaugural Flatline Festival, which takes place June 13 - 14 at the Oriental Theater in Denver, CO. More info and passes can be found HERE.

Since the explosive success of Inferi's critically-acclaimed and chart topping 2018 full-length, 'Revenant,' the death metal battalion has continued to relentlessly churn like a raging maelstrom, dominating everything in its wake with the band's melodic and virtuosic approach to the genre. 'Heaven Wept' picks up where 2021's 'Vile Genesis' left off, putting forth the same mind-bending compositions and other-worldly musicianship that has set the band apart from their contemporaries. Inferi has risen to become a dominant force among modern American death metal acts since their reunion in 2011. 'Heaven Wept' is a master class in progressive extremity and is certain to make its mark as one of the greatest death metal offerings of this decade.

GET TICKETS HERE

North American Tour:

(Supporting DEFEATED SANITY w/ Organectomy, Excrescence, Scasm, + Horrific Visions)

04/16 Anaheim, CA @ Parish (HOB)*

04/17 Fresno, CA @ Fulton 55*

04/18 Santa Rosa, CA @ The California*

04/19 Sacramento, CA @ Starlet*

04/21 Seattle, WA @ El Corazon*

04/22 Portland, OR @ Dante’s*

04/23 Boise, ID @ Shredder*

04/24 Salt Lake City, UT @ Ace’s High Saloon*

04/25 Denver, CO @ HQ*

04/27 Milwaukee, WI @ X-Ray Arcade*

04/28 West Chicago, IL @ Social Club+

04/29 Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle+

04/30 Cleveland, OH @ Grog Shop+

05/01 Rochester, NY @ Montage Music Hall+

05/02 Clifton, NJ @ Dingbatz+

05/03 Baltimore, MD @ Metro+

05/04 Raleigh, NC @ Chapel of Bones+

05/05 Jacksonville, FL @ The Albatross+

05/06 Tampa, FL @ Orpheum+

05/07 Orlando, FL @ Conduit+

05/08 Pensacola, FL @ Handlebar^

05/09 Houston, TX @ Pub 529^

05/11 Dallas, TX @ Three Links^

05/12 Austin, TX @ Come and Take It Live^

05/13 Lubbock, TX @ Jakes^

05/15 Phoenix, AZ @ Nile Underground^

05/16 Las Vegas, NV @ Backstage Bar^

* Excrescence 

+ Scasm

^ Horrific Visions

INFERI U.S. Dates 2026:

06/13: Denver, CO @ Flatline Festival

The album artwork was created by Helge C. Balzer

Recording Lineup:

Stevie Boiser - Vocals

Malcolm Pugh - Guitar, Bass, Orchestration, & Vocals

Sanjay Kumar - Guitar & Orchestration

Spencer Moore - Drums

Live Lineup:

Stevie Boiser - Vocals

Malcolm Pugh - Guitar / Vocals

Sanjay Kumar - Guitar

Nate Bigelow - Drums

Album Credits:

All songs written and performed by Inferi
Bass performed by Malcolm Pugh
Orchestration and synth arrangements by Malcolm Pugh

Mixed and mastered by Mike Low
Drums engineered by Mike Low at Top Track Studios
Additional engineering by Erik Johnson
Guitar reamping by Phil Pluskota

Cover Artist: Helge C. Balzer

Album formats:

Digital

CD

Vinyl

Pre-orders: https://ffm.to/inferi

Links:

BANDCAMP

YOUTUBE

TIKTOK

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

X

APPLE MUSIC

SPOTIFY

LABEL WEBSITE

MERCH STORE (USA)

MERCH STORE (EU)

SHEET HAPPENS

XCOMM Release New Single & Music Video “Hot Pursuit / One And Nothing”

Following a landmark start to 2026 that saw them support the Foo Fighters at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, earn a place on the prestigious NME 100 of 2026, rack up over 2.5 million views across all platforms on their music video for “Fake ID,” and surge to nearly 50,000 Instagram followers in a matter of weeks, Venice hardcore unit XCOMM return today with their new single “Hot Pursuit / One And Nothing.” Watch the video BELOW and stream the track HERE.

Released via Blowed Out Records - the incubator-like brainchild of Ross Robinson, Ghostemane, and Bill Armstrong and produced by Ross Robinson (Korn, The Cure, Slipknot, Glassjaw, At The Drive In), the track captures the remarkable spectrum of what XCOMM are capable of. “Hot Pursuit” is fast, confrontational and unrelenting and moves with razor-sharp urgency before folding into the darker, almost ethereal tension of “One And Nothing.” The result is the sound of a young band showcasing their exceptional range without any compromise or softening their edges. Speaking on today's release, frontman Michael Gatto shares

“Hot Pursuit is about everyday frustrations and the way we put energy and purpose to combat those frustrations, I remember this one was written at our second ever rehearsal. “One And Nothing”, on the other hand, is about moments of clarity and realizations that you do have control over your surroundings and the way things play out.”  

The release arrives as XCOMM’s live presence continues to expand. It was also announced today that the band will join this year’s Warped Tour line-ups in Washington D.C. (June 13 & 14) and Long Beach, CA (July 25 & 26). They will also be playing the previously announced 3rd Anniversary Parking Lot Show at The Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas on April 4th, 2026, sharing the bill with Spike and the Gimme Gimmes, Kate Clover, The Whops, and River Ratts and California Chaos Festival at Pacific Electric Los Angeles on April 11 with Militarie Gun, Stateside, Grave Secrets, Blossom, Jawdropped and Star 99. With their debut album on the horizon and a rapidly stacking list of live shows, festivals and momentum that shows absolutely no sign of slowing, XCOMM are poised to be THE breakout band of 2026.

XCOMM 2026 Live Dates

April 4, 2026 – Las Vegas, NV – The Punk Rock Museum (3rd Anniversary Parking Lot Show)

April 11, 2026 – Los Angeles, CA – Pacific Electric (California Chaos Festival)

June 13 & 14, 2026 – Washington, D.C. – Warped Tour

July 25 & 26, 2026 – Long Beach, CA – Warped Tour

As the lyrics for “Hot Pursuit / One And Nothing” make clear: “XCOMM is coming, coming for your life.” 

That is not a threat, it’s a fact. Buckle up.

ABOUT XCOMM

XCOMM are a ferocious hardcore punk band from Venice Beach, fusing old-school intensity with a modern sense of chaos and clarity. Formed in 2023, the band features frontman Michael Gatto, bassist Adan Escoto, drummer Revel Ian, and DJ/sampler Hunter Grogan.

Signed to Blowed Out Records, XCOMM recorded their upcoming debut album Time To Burn with the legendary Ross Robinson producing. Early singles “Reasons,” “Fake ID,” and “Hot Pursuit / One And Nothing” showcase their ability to bottle frustration, urgency, and sharp self-awareness into precise, pummeling anthems. “Fake ID” alone has amassed over 2.5 million views across all platforms, helping propel the band to nearly 50,000 Instagram followers in just a few short weeks.

XCOMM kicked off 2026 supporting the Foo Fighters at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles and were named in the prestigious NME 100 of 2026. In 2025, they shared a stage with Down at Milwaukee Metal Fest, earned heavy rotation on SiriusXM’s Liquid Metal and Faction Punk. They will appear at both Warped Tour 2026, 3rd Anniversary of The Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas and California Chaos Festival at Pacific Electric in Los Angeles.

XCOMM are:

Michael Gatto – Vocals/Guitar

Revel Ian – Drums

Adan Escoto – Bass

Hunter Grogan – DJ

APOSTLE Announce New Album A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon, Release Crushing New Single "Swine"

ATLANTA, GA metal trio APOSTLE have announced their forthcoming full-length album A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon, set for release June 5, 2026 via Terminus Hate City. Alongside the announcement, the band has unveiled the album’s first single, "Swine", accompanied by a visualizer.

Formed in 2017, APOSTLE have built a reputation for blending the aggression of grindcore and chaotic hardcore with the atmosphere of post-black metal and the melodic weight of shoegaze and post-rock. Their sound is urgent, emotive, and cathartic, drawing influence from bands such as Plebeian Grandstand, Yellow Eyes, Wiegedood, Mourier, and Kły. With A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon, the Atlanta trio deliver their most cohesive and devastating work to date.

"Swine" erupts with panicked tremolo melodies and punishing rhythmic shifts, channeling collective frustration into controlled chaos. Lyrically, the track confronts systems of oppression, consequence, and accountability, using stark imagery and visceral delivery to underscore the emotional and political weight behind its message. The song captures APOSTLE at their most confrontational while maintaining the dynamic depth and melodic sensibility that define the band’s evolving identity.

The album title references Carl Jung’s description of humanity as a “splinter in the infinite deity,” framing the record as an exploration of spiritual duality, grief, and self-examination. Across six tracks and 27 minutes, the band move through themes of loss, mortality, internal conflict, and eventual healing. The record serves as both a meditation on the human condition and a deeply personal tribute shaped by grief and remembrance.

Produced, engineered, and mixed by Connor Ray at Sobek Sound and mastered by Erol Ulug at Bright Lights, A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon presents APOSTLE in their most refined and expansive form.

Their latest album, A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon, represents the band’s most fully realized work to date. Drawing from existential philosophy and deeply personal experiences with grief and remembrance, the record explores humanity’s connection to something greater while acknowledging the struggle inherent in being human. Across its runtime, APOSTLE seek connection through shared emotional experience, transforming personal suffering into collective release.

APOSTLE is:

Murice White – vocals, guitar
Michael Thomas – bass, vocals
Evan Price – drums

Connect with APOSTLE:

Bandcamp: https://apostlesucks.bandcamp.com
Store: https://www.terminushatecity.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/apostlesucks
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/apostlesux
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/67cjLOrbhdb2gFmS9OJKfS
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@terminushatecity

Out Now - UNBURIER - As Time Awaits

UK death metal band UNBURIER has returned with their latest EP, As Time Awaits on February 27th 2026. Uncompromisingly vicious but performed with utmost precision, the band expands their sonic scope while honing the intensity that defined their previous releases. With their new drummer Kim Hughes joining the lineup, UNBURIER unleashes a perfect storm of fresh energy and renewed technicality, pushing their blend of old-school and modern death metal to new extremes. Known for raw ferocity and deft performances, UNBURIER sharpens their approach on this release with tighter songwriting, bigger hooks, and a more refined, punishing delivery.

The EP opens ominously with the intro of "Continuum", then charges onward into the depths and never lets up. Darkness prevails on "Continuum" with a groovy rhythm section and tastefully melodic guitar leads. Powerful mid-range vocals drive the song, occasionally layered with guttural growls to add depth and intensity. The melodies are underpinned with elegantly-phrased fretless bass lines and tight, progressive drumming. The track steadily builds momentum before hitting a breakdown that shifts the dynamics, leading into back-to-back solos that showcase the band’s musicianship. Lyrically, "Continuum" explores the collapse of rigid beliefs and the confusion that follows. It paints a picture of spiraling ideas and false guidance, revealing the emptiness behind so-called truths. The track dives into the tension between light and darkness, truth and deception, showing how we wrestle with meaning in a world full of contradictions. Dark, intense, and unflinching, it sets a tone of uneasy reflection and relentless questioning.

Next, kicking off with a section of torrential, arpeggiated dissonance, "Abyssal Uncertainty" quickly announces its brutality before diving into rapid, NECROPHAGIST-inspired riffing. The fretless bass weaves in and out of each riff, acting as the translator between the frantic guitars and precise drumming. Despite shifting meter and tempo, the song maintains a consistent feel and raw edge throughout, sonically illustrating the darkened narrative. It features the standout solo of the EP, utilizing the track's unyielding brutality as momentum into a soaring passage that showcases a more playful lead guitar style. "Abyssal Uncertainty" is the most lyrically-ambitious track of the EP, with nods to Camus, Lovecraft and other literary influences. The listener is invited to witness a trapped laborer's descent into madness, reflecting on and acknowledging the absurdity of his life and death. The struggles depicted here represent those of anyone who has been forced to devote themselves to someone else's greed, and the yearning for a world where we can each live in accordance with our own nature.

Finally, "Survive the Vermin" ends the EP with the appropriate blend of ferocity and spellbinding technicality. Vocalist and guitarist Ben Champion shows off a viscerally emotive vocal range, skillfully punctuating his mid-range snarls with screeching highs for maximum impact. Bassist Stan Mitchell and drummer Kim Hughes lay the foundation for the song's intensity with a punchy, driving rhythm section. Guitarist Blake Hibberd propels the momentum forward with a relentless barrage of twisting, turning, shredding leads. The lyrics of "Survive The Vermin" develop themes of purpose and identity on the EP through a first-person account of a cosmic, immortal warrior. Surrendering flesh for steel, the narrator struggles to detach themselves from the sensations they thought to have discarded. The lyrics ask if, when we give ourselves wholly to one purpose, it is worth sacrificing the simplicity of everyday life. Paying homage to sci-fi author Nate Crowley and absurdist philosophy, "Survive The Vermin" provides the most direct declaration of the themes behind the EP.

Newcomers to UNBURIER's realm of fury and technicality will find As Time Awaits to be a compelling introduction to the band's evolving sound, and longtime listeners will be proud to follow the band’s growth across their earlier releases. 

UNBURIER lineup:
Ben Champion - Vocals/Guitar
Blake Hibberd - Guitar/Vocals
Stan Mitchell - Bass
Kim Hughes - Drums

A Dizzy Late Night Confession: Ray Hawthorne Releases "Somewhere Else"

Everyone's favorite pop punk disruptor, Ray Hawthorne, is back in his feelings and out of his body. Following the anthemic chaos of his recent single, "Sidelines" and his sophomore album, "Ray Hawthorne Isn't Real" the Los Angeles-based firebrand returns with "Somewhere Else," a dizzy, late night confessional about being physically present but emotionally checked out. Fans can listen to the new single Below.

Kicking off like a movie, "Somewhere Else" starts with a messy walk home and only gets more unhinged from there, zooming in on bloody knuckles, bad habits, and the way shame makes you want to disappear even when someone is standing right in front of you. Ray Hawthorne leans into that split-screen feeling of watching yourself from the outside, trying to be the person someone believes in while secretly falling apart in real time.

With his signature mix of chaos, humor, and heart still fully intact, Ray Hawthorne shares:

"Yo have you guys seen Britney Spears’ instagram lately? I’m supposed to write a quote for the song I just dropped but I literally can’t look away from Britney Spears’ instagram. Admittedly I was super out of the loop for the whole ‘Free Britney’ thing, I only got a basic overview from some friends and never really looked further into it. But yo, a reel she just posted popped up on my instagram feed and it’s wild. Don’t scroll through Britney Spears’ reels tab if you have anything else planned for the day. You won’t be able to look away. But the comments are turned off, so you can’t even get a feel for what people are thinking about these reels. You’d have to look up some YouTube think-piece about it, and I don’t have time for that. Alright, actually I had to look it up. I just did a basic YouTube search for “Britney Spears Instagram”. A video popped up with a thumbnail that says “Is it her sister with AI of her face? Is she alive?”. I gotta watch this shit, will report back.

Oh my god. That’s 30 minutes of my life I’ll never get back. Let me save you some time, this video is bullshit, Britney Spears is still alive, she is NOT just Zoey 101 with an AI face no matter what “Ready to Glare” on YouTube might suggest. Just leave Britney alone and listen to my new song instead. It’s called Somewhere Else.”

Renowned for his work in North Kingsley, the acclaimed project alongside Shavo Odadjian of System of a Down, Hawthorne initially captured hearts as the Heartbreak Hero with his inaugural solo release "Heartbreak Feels Good in a Place Like This". Building on his solo work, his debut record "Ray Hawthorne Sucks" further cemented his status as a bold new voice in pop punk, quickly amassing a devoted following and over 18 million streams across all streaming platforms for his magnetic charm and razor-sharp wit.

Blending heartbreak, sarcasm, and just the right amount of emotional stability, Ray Hawthorne leads with a messy kind of hope, turning emotional freefall into something you can scream along to. Where debut album and his firstborn, "Ray Hawthorne Sucks", leaned into an earnest DIY vulnerability, his latest record, "Ray Hawthorne Isn't Real", took a turn and tapped into the restless defiance of a secondborn. The 15 tracks helped embrace the chaos, laugh at the pain, and maybe, just maybe, allow us all to find a little redemption along the way.

Starting from the very real possibility that Ray Hawthorne is just a guy screaming into the ether (and somehow making it sound catchy), his catalog has become a refuge for anyone who's ever felt too loud, too sensitive, or too much. Loud, petty, and deeply cathartic, Ray Hawthorne is proudly one of the most unapologetically honest voices modern pop-punk.

Be sure to stay tuned for more Ray Hawthorne news coming very soon.

ABOUT RAY HAWTHORNE

Do you remember that episode of Degrassi where Ashley really wants Craig to tell her he loves her, but Craig gets all panicked and can’t tell her that he does? It causes so much drama in their relationship. She begins to question her feelings for him and because of that, he becomes seemingly unsure of his feelings for her. So, in an effort to quell the bad vibes, Craig writes a song that includes lyrics IMPLICITLY AND EXPLICITLY stating that he loves her. (Total banger by the way, the only song of his I like better is the one he sings at the battle of the bands after the two inevitably break up, it’s also about Ashley. I believe it’s called ‘What I Know’) Anyway, Craig was only able to admit he loved Ashley in song form, but you as the viewer are left wondering ‘Does he really love her, or was this just his solution to end the drama?’ Or, ’Is this truly the only way he can express himself because he’s kind of nervous about speaking his true feelings outside of the structured environment of a song?’. I tend to believe it’s a mixture of both. So what I’m trying to say is, this collection of songs is kind of like that. I always feel like I have so much to say but often feel a bit too vulnerable when discussing my actual feelings. So for the majority of my life, I’ve just written them into songs instead. These songs can be quite vulnerable even if they seem silly at times. So now you’re left to wonder... am I telling the truth or just trying to get rid of Ashley’s bad vibes?

KEVIN STEELE RELEASES HIS FIRST SOLO ALBUM “ONE THING LEFT TO DO”

Kevin Steele has released his first solo album, One Thing Left To Do, via Steele Records/Amplified Distribution. Talking about the track "Sad, Sad Song" Kevin stated, “It is autobiographical and to be honest it was a little hard to record. I'm not looking for pity but I think it's fair to say that life has dealt me a pretty tough hand. With "Sad, Sad Song" I felt it was time to lay those cards on the table and at least get a song out of it."

Listen or Purchase: https://snd.click/cyc6

Black Angel Promotions recently reviewed the entire album and said, “Elements of Roxx Gang and Mojo Gurus surface throughout, but there’s also a pronounced swagger that recalls the New York Dolls and Johnny Thunders, an influence that feels more prominent here than in his previous work. That gritty, loose-limbed energy runs through much of the record, balanced by the Southern Rock sensibilities longtime listeners have come to expect… Kevin Steele has finally delivered a true solo album.… “One Thing Left To Do” isn’t about chasing trends or rewriting history, it’s about showing up, once more, with heart, grit, and a voice that still carries its own unmistakable character.”

All of these songs showcase Kevin's masterful songwriting across all the musical styles that have shaped his colorful career, including glam, punk, rock, blues, and even southern gospel. Kevin’s band Roxx Gang were one of America’s great bands and the first rock band signed to Virgin Records in America. Their debut record, the classic "Things You've Never Done Before", sold over 250,000 copies. In a way, they were the bridge between glam and grunge and The Mojo Gurus played a vital role in keeping rock-n-roll alive in "the Tens" working with legendary producers Jack Douglas (John Lennon, Aerosmith, New York Dolls) and Tommy Henricksen (Alice Cooper, Lou Reed, The Hollywood Vampires). With One Thing Left To Do, Steele brings his musical journey full circle with a truly remarkable record that you just have to hear.

Joining Kevin on this new record is guitar phenom / co producer Billy Summer (Florida, Luxury Mane, The New Brutarians) whose music has been heard on major TV shows and films such as Ted Lasso, The Affair, Harpoon, Life and Beth, Chicago Fire, Property Brothers and many others.The result is one hot slab of Rock 'n' Roll revelry covering several genres that showcase a track list of impressive playing and songwriting.

"Billy and I made such a great team. Instant connection of the minds. He knew instinctively where I was going musically with each song before I would even tell him. That's why they call us the Cosmic Twins”, said Kevin.

The band is an allstar collection of Tampa Bay, Florida musicians playing at the top of their game. They formed an instant camaraderie and the good times had in the recording sessions shine across every track!

On Friday, February 27 Kevin celebrates the release of his new record at Bayboro Brewing Company. Kevin will perform the new record in its entirety, backed by an all-star band of Tampa Bay musicians featuring guitarist Billy Summer.

• Bayboro Brewing Company Presents: Kevin Steele - Record Release Concert

• Special Guests: Saints of Saturn - Recent winners of Hard Rock Rising - Tampa

• Friday February 27, 2026

• Bayboro Brewing Company 2390 5th Ave. S., Saint Petersburg, FL (727) 767-9666

• Doors at 7:00 PM - Show at 8:00 PM - All Ages

• Get tickets here: tinyurl.com/3auxepnd

• All songs written by Kevin Steele - Too Cool Music Publishing - BMI

  except Sad, Sad Song written by Kevin Steele & Billy Summer

  Too Cool Music Publishing - BMI & Billy Summer Music - BMI

  Recorded at The Ward, St. Petersburg, FL

  Produced by the Cosmic Twins (Billy Summer & Kevin Steele)

  Engineered by Billy Summer

  Mastered by Brian Merrill at Studio B, St. Petersburg, FL

  Cover Art by Adam Turkel

  Photography by Linda Militello

  Links:

  https://www.facebook.com/KSteeleRoxxGang

ROB ZOMBIE RELEASES NEW ALBUM, THE GREAT SATAN!

Following months of anticipation, rock and metal icon ROB ZOMBIE has released his new album, The Great Satan, today via Nuclear Blast Records.

Across more than four decades, Zombie has cemented himself as a singular cultural force. Fusing avant-garde aesthetics with monstrous, groove-driven rock, his work has consistently defied convention. With The Great Satan, Zombie extends that legacy, delivering one of the boldest and most fully realized records of his career.

From the foot-stomping, hell-raising swagger of ‘(I’m a) Rock ’N’ Roller’ to the throwback grit of ‘Heathen Days’ and the anthemic punch of ‘Punks And Demons,’ Zombie continues to evolve on his own terms—leaving trends and expectations in his space dust.

Coinciding with the album’s release, Zombie has unveiled a new self-directed music video for ‘F.T.W. 84,’ further expanding the album’s vivid and uncompromising visual world.

Purchase/Stream The Great Satan: https://robzombie.bfan.link/the-great-satan

‘F.T.W. 84’ MUSIC VIDEO:

ROB ZOMBIE will embark on a Summer 2026 co-headline tour with labelmate MARILYN MANSON in August with support from THE HU and ORGY. Tickets and VIP packages onsale now at https://www.robzombie.com/tour

ROB ZOMBIE (w/MARILYN MANSON) Tour Dates:

8/20 - West Palm Beach, FL - iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre^+

8/21 - Tampa, FL - MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre^+

8/23 - Alpharetta, GA - Ameris Bank Amphitheatre^+

8/24 - Charlotte, NC - Truliant Amphitheater^+

8/26 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center^+

8/27 - Mansfield, MA - Xfinity Center^+

8/29 - Burgettstown, PA - The Pavilion at Star Lake^+

8/30 - Darien Center, NY - Darien Lake Amphitheater^+

9/01 - Toronto, ON - RBC Amphitheatre^+

9/02 - Cuyahoga Falls, OH - Blossom Music Center^+

9/04 - Clarkston, MI - Pine Knob Music Theatre^+

9/05 - Tinley Park, IL - Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre^+

9/06 - Noblesville, IN - Ruoff Music Center^+

9/09 - St. Louis, MO - Hollywood Casino Amphitheater^+

9/10 - Kansas City, MO - Morton Amphitheater^+

9/12 - Greenwood Village, CO - Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre^+

9/14 - West Valley City, UT - Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre^+

9/16 - Airway Heights, WA - BECU Live at Northern Quest+

9/17 - Auburn, WA - White River Amphitheatre^+

9/18 - Ridgefield, WA - Cascades Amphitheater^+

9/20 - Concord, CA - Toyota Pavilion at Concord^+

^With The Hu

+With Orgy

SONATA ARCTICA Release Brand-New Single “Freedom Concept”!

Finnish power metal pioneers SONATA ARCTICA have unleashed a brand-new single titled “Freedom Concept.” The track arrives as a powerful statement in the band’s 30th anniversary year, followed by an extensive touring schedule, and delivers the melodic intensity and energy fans have come to expect.

“Freedom Concept” captures the signature blend of soaring melodies, driving rhythms and emotional depth that has defined SONATA ARCTICA for three decades. At the same time, the song explores a thoughtful and timely subject: the complex idea of freedom and the responsibility that comes with it.

Frontman Tony Kakko comments: ”Freedom Concept” , a song about understanding and misunderstanding the concept of freedom, often forgetting it comes paired with responsibility, and how what ever values and thoughts you may have are not automatically transferred to your offspring and how in most cases that’s an effin great thing…(breath in) has been sitting on my desk for a while and we figured this kind of melodic power metal blast we’re known of would be a good way to celebrate the 30th anniversary ”tourette” we’ve started at the end of January 2026 WHILST also working on our next studio album. This song’s NOT gonna be on it. So…extra special snack in between meals. Enjoy!”

Stream / Download “Freedom Concept”: https://sonataarctica.rpm.link/freedomPR

About SONATA ARCTICA
It has been 30 years since SONATA ARCTICA began their journey as one of the Finnish power metal pioneers. Emerging on the international scene in 1999 with their debut album Ecliptica, the band quickly established themselves as a leading force in melodic metal.

Since then, SONATA ARCTICA have released 11 studio albums, alongside countless singles, EPs and several live albums. Over the decades, they have toured the world extensively, built a dedicated global fanbase and solidified their reputation as one of the most successful Finnish metal bands of all time.

With “Freedom Concept,” the band once again proves why their sound continues to resonate across generations: melodic, powerful and unmistakably SONATA ARCTICA!

SONATA ARCTICA is:
Tony Kakko (vocals)
Elias Viljanen (guitars)
Tommy Portimo (drums)
Henrik "Henkka" Klingenberg (keyboards)
Pasi Kauppinen (bass)
 

More on SONATA ARCTICA:
Website | https://www.sonataarctica.info
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/sonataarctica
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sonataarcticaofficial/
X | https://twitter.com/sonataarctica
TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@sonataarcticaofficial
YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/user/SONATAARCTICA

ALICIA PRUITT JOINS TAPE ROOM MUSIC AS CCO/PRESIDENT, A&R

Longtime Warner Chappell Music senior A&R executive and songwriter champion Alicia Pruitt joins independent publishing leader Tape Room Music as Chief Creative Officer and President, A&R, reporting directly to CEO and Founder, Ashley Gorley.
 
Pruitt joins COO and President, Business Affairs’ Blain Rhodes, who continues to steer Tape Room Music's strategic growth as the publishing and artist development company ushers in a new expansive era across writing, producing and burgeoning performing talent.
 
“I’m incredibly grateful to be joining Tape Room Music,” Pruitt remarks of joining the independent publishing company. “This opportunity, with a family environment already in place, feels God-sent. After working in this business for years, I think we all realize how important it is to align with people that make you laugh, challenge you, and simply make you feel a part of something bigger. My career has been built on continuing to challenge myself, and with this winning team of staff and songwriters, it brings an entirely new excitement about what’s to come.”
 
“I’ve known Alicia since my first writing deal, and I’ve seen firsthand the passion and integrity she brings to her work with songwriters,” shares Gorley. “Tape Room has experienced incredible success and growth thanks to our goal of bringing in the very best writers and surrounding them with the very best team. Alicia strengthens that mission, and she’ll help us continue to raise the bar as we build what's next.”
 
“Alicia is a fierce champion for songwriters and one of the best humans I know,” adds Rhodes. “We are thrilled to have her join the team at Tape Room. As we continue to grow, her experience and commitment to songwriters will help us continue to develop  a home where writers thrive.”
 
Pruitt’s addition builds on recent growth of Tape Room’s team, including Katherine Godwin, who was hired in 2025 as Manager, A&R, supporting Caroline Hodson, who was elevated to Director, A&R that same year.
 
After starting the year with three back-to-back No. 1s while marking the company’s 60th chart-topper, Tape Room continues to expand its executive leadership as it enters its next phase of growth. With seven songs currently in the top 40 at country radio, Tape Room further solidifies its reputation for country chart prominence.
 
Congratulate Pruitt at Alicia@TapeRoomMusic.com.

For more information, visit TapeRoom.com or follow along on Instagram @TapeRoomMusic.

Photo Credit: Bree Fish

IAN MUNSICK TO OPEN COWBOY BAR & WESTERN GRILL THIS AUGUST IN DEADWOOD, SOUTH DAKOTA

Wyoming native Ian Munsick is partnering with The Landmark Hotel & Casino to open the Ian Munsick Cowboy Bar & Western Grill in August in Deadwood, S.D.
 
Built between 1894-1920, The Landmark is Deadwood’s largest historic structure at approximately 35,000 square feet. The Ian Munsick Cowboy Bar & Western Grill will reside within over 2,600 square feet of the footprint. The venue will promote and celebrate country and western music with old school country bar decor, along with two performance stages, one indoors and one outdoors.
 
“Country stars and bars, it's a tale as old as time. I’m beyond excited to announce the opening of Ian Munsick’s Cowboy Bar & Western Grill.” shares Munsick.. “The brainchild of my wife, Caroline, you won’t find a better place to have a beer or three than our new oasis of the West. Live music, great food, and most importantly, all the authentic western vibes that makes everyone love a real cowboy bar. Deadwood just got a little better!”
 
“The Landmark Hotel & Casino family welcomes Ian and his fans to a classic, best-in-region cowboy bar experience with great drinks, food and music," shares Gerard Keating, Managing Partner of The Landmark Hotel & Casino. “We’re excited to see this continue to expand, as a recording studio in adjacent space is also under design.”
 
The news comes as Munsick continues to tease a new chapter of upcoming music, recently debuting the official music video for his latest release, “Geronimo.” “Geronimo” is his first release under WEST TO THE REST RECORDS/Triple Tigers Records. Directed by Ben Christensen, the video was shot in Wyoming by Isaac Spotts and produced by Caroline Munsick. Watch HERE.
 
Munsick, who has built his loyal fanbase from the ground up to selling out venues across the country, is currently on his Eagle Flies Free Tour, which kicked off on February 13 in Charlotte, N.C. With upcoming stops in Spokane, Wash..; Fargo, N.D..; Durant, Okla. and more, Munsick is joined by a rotating lineup of special guests including Lanie Gardner, Ben Haggard, Tyler Nance, Kenny Whitmire and Jake Worthington. 
 
The tour will be capped off with Munsick’s second headlining show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on August 25 with special guests ERNEST and Ned LeDoux. The appearance follows his 2024 sold-out debut at the coveted Rocky Mountain venue.
 
For tickets and more information, visit IanMunsick.com.

The Eagle Flies Free Tour Dates:
Thursday, Feb. 26 || Kennewick, WA || Toyota Center #
Friday, Feb. 27 || Missoula, MT || Adams Center #
Saturday, Feb. 28 || Spokane, WA || FIC for the Art #
Tuesday, March 3 || Grand Island, NE || Heartland Event Center $
Thursday, March 5 || Fargo, ND || Scheels Arena #
Friday, March 6 || Brookings, SD || Dacotah Bank #
Saturday, March 7 || Mankato, MN || Grand Hall #
Friday, March 13 || Shipshewana, IN || Blue Gate Theatre (w/ local support)
Saturday, March 14 || Clear Lake, IA || Surf Ballroom (w/ local support)
Friday, March 27 || Helotes, TX || Floores Country Store (w/ local support)
Saturday, March 28 || Durant, OK || Choctaw Grand Theater ^
Thursday, April 16 || Jim Thorpe, Penn. || Penn's Peak +
Friday, April 17 || Warren, Ohio || Packard Music Hall + 
Saturday, April 18 || Mount Vernon, Ky. || Renfro Valley - The New Barn Theater + 
Friday, April 24 || Wilmington, Ohio || Bowstring Brewyard + 
Saturday, April 25 || Marietta, Ohio || Peoples Bank Arena +
Friday, May 22 || Isle of Palms, S.C. || The Wind Jammer +
Saturday, May 23 || Pelham, Tenn. || The Caverns +
Saturday, May 30 || Cocoa, Fla. || Cocoa Riverfront Park Amphitheater +
Friday, June 5 || Louisville, Ky. || Fourth Street Live
Saturday, June 27 || Libby, Mont. || Happys Inn
Tuesday, Aug. 25 || Red Rocks Amphitheatre || Morrison, Colo. &
 
* w/ Lanie Gardner
# w/ Jake Worthington and Tyler Nance
$ w/ Tyler Nance
^ w/ Ben Haggard
& w/ ERNEST and Ned LeDoux
+ w/ Kenny Whitmire

KOE WETZEL ANNOUNCES 45-CITY THE NIGHT CHAMPION WORLD TOUR

Pollstar’s “firebrand live sensation” Koe Wetzel returns to the road with aptly named The Night Champion World Tour, a 45-city headlining run this summer and fall. Shane Smith & The Saints, Ole 60, Wyatt Flores, Corey Kent, Wade Bowen, Bayker Blankenship, Kolby Cooper and Logan Jahnke join as support across varying dates throughout the U.S., Canada and Australia.
 
Fans can register for early access to tickets for U.S. dates of The Night Champion World Tour at TheNightChampionWorldTour.com. Artist presale starts March 10 at 10 a.m. local time, with general on sale for all North American dates beginning March 13 at 10 a.m. local time. Australian dates are on sale now.
 
Known for concerts the East Texas native describes fondly as “total chaos,” Wetzel’s live show has grown from Texas dive bars to sold-out amphitheaters and arenas nationwide, drawing more than 250,000 fans on his 2024 Damn Near Normal Tour alone.
 
“It’s kind of crazy that I’m not dead or in jail with everything that’s gone on in my life,” Wetzel reflects candidly. “Coming into 2026 and this tour, I feel like I’m the best version of myself I’ve ever been. I survived the night side of me. I’m coming out of it a champion.”
 
The upcoming tour promises to deliver new tracks like “Surrounded” and “Time Goes On” plus 2025’s most-played song at Country radio, the 3x Platinum, five-week No. 1 hit “High Road” and fan favorites including “February 28, 2016” – with the corresponding Koe Wetzel Day unofficial holiday in the midst of its 10th anniversary celebration this week.
 
Ahead of the celebration a decade in the making culminating at Koe Wetzel’s Riot Room in Fort Worth this Saturday, Feb. 28, fans are encouraged to join Wetzel’s Community by texting 601-563-9895 for an exclusive announcement to come.
 
For more information on all to come and to purchase tickets to the tour, visit KoeWetzelMusic.com. Follow on Instagram and Facebook @KoeWetzelMusic, TikTok @Koe_Wetzel and Twitter/X @KoeWetzel.

The Night Champion World Tour Dates
Support Details Available via KoeWetzelMusic.com
May 3 | Melbourne, Vic. (Australia) | Forum Melbourne
May 5 | Sydney, N.S.W (Australia) | Enmore Theatre
May 9 | Brisbane, Qld. (Australia) | Fortitude Music Hall
July 8 | Edmonton, Alb. (Canada) | Rogers Place
July 10 | Penticton, B.C. (Canada) | South Okanagan Event Center
July 11 | Abbotsford, B.C. (Canada) | Abbotsford Centre
July 23 | Nampa, Idaho | Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
July 24 | Stateline, Nev. | Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic
July 25 | Las Vegas, Nev. | The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
July 30 | Airway Heights, Wash. | Northern Quest Casino
July 31 | Bend, Ore. | Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Aug. 1 | Tacoma, Wash. | Dune Peninsula
Aug. 6 | Bonner Springs, Kan. | Azura Amphitheater
Aug. 7 | Evansville, Ind. | Ford Center
Aug. 8 | Nashville, Tenn. | Bridgestone Arena
Aug. 12 | New York, N.Y. | Pier 17
Aug. 13 | Reading, Pa. | Santander Arena
Aug. 14 | Gilford, N.H. | BankNH Pavilion
Aug. 19 | Boston, Mass. | Leader Bank Pavilion
Aug. 20 | Washington, D.C. | The Anthem
Aug. 21 | Pittsburgh, Pa. | Petersen Events Center
Aug. 26 | Buffalo, N.Y. | Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B
Aug. 27 | Cleveland, Ohio | Wolstein Center
Aug. 28 | Rochester Hills, Mich. | Meadow Brook Amphitheatre*
Sept. 3 | Austin, Texas | Moody Center
Sept. 4 | Baton Rouge, La. | Raising Cane’s River Center
Sept. 5 | Bossier City, La. | Brookshire Grocery Arena
Sept. 10 | Knoxville, Tenn. | Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center
Sept. 11 | Greensboro, N.C. | First Horizon Coliseum
Sept. 12 | Wilmington, N.C. | Live Oak Bank Pavilion
Sept. 17 | Alpharetta, Ga. | Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
Sept. 18 | Columbia, S.C. | Colonial Life Arena
Sept. 19 | Richmond, Va. | Virginia Credit Union LIVE!
Sept. 24 | Pikeville, Ky. | Appalachian Wireless Arena
Sept. 25 | Huntsville, Ala. | The Orion Amphitheater
Sept. 26 | Brandon, Miss. | Brandon Amphitheater
Sept. 30 | Rogers, Ark. | The Walmart AMP
Oct. 1 | North Little Rock, Ark. | Simmons Bank Arena
Oct. 2 | Tulsa, Okla. | BOK Center
Oct. 3 | Wichita, Kan. | INTRUST Bank Arena
Oct. 8 | Chicago, Ill. | Salt Shed Fairgrounds
Oct. 9 | Fishers, Ind. | Fishers Event Center
Oct. 10 | Milwaukee, Wis. | Fiserv Forum
Oct. 28 | Morrison, Colo. | Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Oct. 30 | Lubbock, Texas | Cook’s Garage
    * on sale at 11 a.m. local time on March 13
 
Additional Live Shows
March 7 | Norco, Calif. | Boots in the Park  
March 18 | Houston, Texas | Houston Rodeo  
April 10 | Gonzales, Texas | Cattle Country  
April 18 | Fresno, Calif. | Boots in the Park  
April 25 | Arlington, Texas | Lone Star Smokeout  
May 15 | Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, N.M. | Boots in the Park  
May 30 | Panama City Beach, Fla. | Gulf Coast Jam  
June 12 | Del Mar, Calif. | San Diego County Fair  
June 20 | Lewisburg, W.Va. | Wild Trails Festival  
June 27 | Ashland, Neb. | Country Drive Music Festival  
July 3 | Winnipeg, MB | Country Thunder Winnipeg  
July 16 | Eau Claire, Wis. | Country Jam USA  
July 17 | Manchester, Iowa | Delaware County Fair  
Aug. 15 | Montreal, Que. (Canada) | Lasso  
Aug. 22 | Lima, Ohio | Allen County Fair  
Aug. 29 | Lucknow, Ont. (Canada) | Lucknow’s Music in the Fields  
Nov. 20 | St. Petersburg, Fla. | St. Pete Country Fest  

KAWASAKI & MONSTER ENERGY BECOME OFFICIAL SPONSORS OF MORGAN WALLEN’S STILL THE PROBLEM TOUR

Continuing their longstanding partnership within entertainment, Kawasaki and Monster Energy are joining forces as the official sponsors of Morgan Wallen’s 23-date Still The Problem Tour, kicking off April 10 in Minneapolis, Minn. To highlight the close partnership between the 19-time Billboard Music Award winner, Kawasaki and Monster Energy, the sponsorship will feature exciting nationwide promotions and collaborations that will run throughout the entire tour. 
 
Kawasaki and Monster Energy will kick-off the partnership this weekend at the Daytona Supercross race where custom Morgan Wallen Still The Problem Tour-branded Kawasaki bikes will be unveiled. Monster Energy is also giving away limited edition Morgan Wallen x Monster Energy x Kawasaki hoodies via its famous Rig Riot on the Daytona International Speedway infield at 5PM on Saturday.
 
To precede the tour, Kawasaki will launch a nationwide Kawasaki x Morgan Wallen Still The Problem Tour sweepstakes. Fans will have the chance to win a custom 2026 Kawasaki RIDGE® CREW Platinum Ranch Edition side x side fully loaded with Kawasaki Genuine Accessories and one-of-a-kind custom Morgan Wallen graphics.
 
“We're thrilled to continue our partnership with Morgan Wallen and to sponsor his 2026 Still The Problem Tour,” shares Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. Senior Director, Global and Domestic Marketing Bob O’Brien. “We were honored to sponsor last year’s tour and know this tour will be even bigger and will be a defining event of the spring and summer once again. Having our long-time partner Monster Energy on board as co-sponsor means even more opportunities for fans on site and a meaningful extension of the Kawasaki brand.”
 
Monster Energy will be at every stop of the tour to provide the energy, making sure fans are ready to rock with samples of crisp ice-cold cans of Monster. The brand is also fueling the fun with DJs, swag giveaways, a special Kawasaki x Morgan Wallen x Monster bike collaboration and more interactive elements for music lovers to enjoy.
 
To celebrate the partnership, Monster Energy is also launching its biggest promo of the year: the Monster Energy x Morgan Wallen Still The Problem Tour promotion, giving fans the chance to earn VIP tickets and money-can’t-buy collab items including custom bikes, instruments and exclusive merch with more details to be announced soon.
 
“Morgan Wallen represents that same authenticity Monster is known for,” says Monster Energy Global CMO Dan McHugh. “This is a real full circle moment for us as we sponsored one of Morgan’s early headline tours back in 2020, and now, we’re once again in lockstep to support him and his fans through this stadium-sized partnership. And having Kawasaki join us as the sponsor of the Still The Problem Tour is the icing on the cake.”

Photo Credit: Spidey Smith

Still The Problem is inspired by Wallen’s fourth studio album, I’m The Problem, which arrived May 16, 2025 via Big Loud/Mercury Records. I’m The Problem spent 13 non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard 200 albums chart in the U.S. and Canada. It also became his third consecutive album to spend at least 10 weeks atop the Billboard 200 – making Wallen the first artist in history to achieve that feat.
 
As with previous tours, a portion of every ticket sold will benefit his Morgan Wallen Foundation (MWF) — which supports programs for youth in the areas of sports and music. As part of MWF’s Tour Give Back initiative, the foundation has contributed over $1 million worth of instruments to schools in need across U.S. touring cities. For more information, visit MorganWallenFoundation.org.
 
Still The Problem Tour 2026 Dates: 
April 10 || Minneapolis, Minn. || U.S. Bank Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
April 11 || Minneapolis, Minn. || U.S. Bank Stadium w/ HARDY, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
April 18 || Tuscaloosa, Ala. || Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Vincent Mason, Zach John King
May 1 || Las Vegas, Nev. || Allegiant Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
May 2 || Las Vegas, Nev. || Allegiant Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
May 8 || Indianapolis, Ind. || Lucas Oil Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Hudson Westbrook, Zach John King
May 9 || Indianapolis, Ind. || Lucas Oil Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Flatland Cavalry, Zach John King
May 15 || Gainesville, Fla. || Ben Hill Griffin Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
May 16 || Gainesville, Fla. || Ben Hill Griffin Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
May 29 || Denver, Colo. || Empower Field at Mile High w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
May 30 || Denver, Colo. || Empower Field at Mile High w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Vincent Mason
June 5 || Pittsburgh, Penn. || Acrisure Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 6 || Pittsburgh, Penn. || Acrisure Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 19 || Chicago, Ill. || Soldier Field w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 20 || Chicago, Ill. || Soldier Field w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach John King
June 26 || Clemson, S.C. || Clemson Memorial Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Jason Scott & The High Heat
June 27 || Clemson, S.C. || Clemson Memorial Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Jason Scott & The High Heat
July 17 || Baltimore, Md. || M&T Bank Stadium w/ Brooks & Dunn, Gavin Adcock, Jason Scott & The High Heat
July 18 || Baltimore, Md. || M&T Bank Stadium w/ Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Jason Scott & The High Heat
July 24 || Ann Arbor, Mich. || Michigan Stadium w/ Thomas Rhett, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten
July 25 || Ann Arbor, Mich. || Michigan Stadium w/ HARDY, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten
July 31 || Philadelphia, Penn. || Lincoln Financial Field w/ ​​Brooks & Dunn, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten
August 1 || Philadelphia, Penn. || Lincoln Financial Field w/ Ella Langley, Hudson Westbrook, Blake Whiten

SWANWRITER Announces New Album melodies of despair and Releases First Single "girl on the wall"

Vancouver, BC progressive metal project SWANWRITER has announced the upcoming release of its second full-length album, melodies of despair, arriving independently on June 26. Alongside the announcement, the project unveils the album’s second single, "girl on the wall", offering an early look into the record’s darker emotional and narrative themes.

Created entirely by multi-instrumentalist Koda, melodies of despair continues the dark, cinematic direction introduced on SWANWRITER’s 2023 debut There is a darkness. The new album presents a collection of interconnected horror-inspired narratives shaped by themes of isolation, grief, betrayal, and psychological unease, delivered through expansive progressive metal compositions enriched with piano, acoustic instrumentation, and orchestral textures.

Serving as the first glimpse into the album’s world, "girl on the wall" captures one of its most emotionally immediate moments. Inspired by the cult horror game Ib, the track tells the story of a girl trapped inside a painting, observing life from beyond reach while growing increasingly consumed by jealousy and longing. Musically, the song balances melodic accessibility with progressive ambition, driven by classical guitar passages, shifting vocal dynamics, and layered bass arrangements that deepen its surreal atmosphere.

While maintaining the long-form songwriting approach that defines SWANWRITER, melodies of despair expands its sonic range with greater emphasis on acoustic elements and dynamic contrast. Across its six compositions, the album moves between fragile intimacy and overwhelming heaviness, unfolding as a complete listening experience intended to be heard from beginning to end.

melodies of despair was produced and mixed by Koda, mastered by Roland Rodas, and features cover artwork by 無た｡ / muta.

About SWANWRITER:
  SWANWRITER is a dark progressive metal project based in Vancouver, British Columbia, created and performed entirely by the anonymous multi-instrumentalist known as Koda. Formed in 2023, the project emerged from a desire to merge progressive metal songwriting with classical composition, atmospheric storytelling, and emotionally driven arrangements.

Having studied classical piano from an early age before later discovering extreme metal, Koda developed SWANWRITER as a space to explore long-form composition without stylistic limitation. The music draws influence from progressive and experimental metal alongside classical composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Chopin, resulting in compositions that emphasize dynamics, texture, and narrative pacing.

SWANWRITER debuted with There is a darkness in June 2023, establishing a sound centered on extended song structures, melodic development, and cinematic atmosphere. Rather than focusing on technical exhibition, the project prioritizes mood, storytelling, and cohesion across full-length releases.

Themes throughout SWANWRITER’s work often intersect with psychological horror, melancholy, and introspection, shaped in part by inspiration from horror games, film soundtracks, and dark ambient music. Each release is approached as a complete artistic statement, with careful attention given to sequencing, emotional progression, and sonic detail.

Operating independently, SWANWRITER remains a studio-focused project, with future ambitions that include composing music for horror and narrative-driven media.

Connect with SWANWRITER:

Bandcamp: https://swanwriter.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swanwritermusic/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swanwritermusic/
X / Twitter: https://x.com/swanwritermusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@swanwriter
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6unE9CWOXt5c4UIiaHD5RR
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/swanwriter/1686779640
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@swanwritermusic

UFO ‘The Wild, The Willing and The Innocent’ Release Date: May 1st 2026

Chrysalis Records are proud to present the latest in the acclaimed UFO reissue series: the classic 1981 album ‘The Wild, The Willing and The Innocent’.

Reissued on stunning 3LP tri-fold sleeve 180gm vinyl and 2CD Digipak formats on May 1st, 2026, the album now sounds more dynamic and detailed than ever, thanks to new remastering from the original tape transfers. 

Originally released on January 16th, 1981, this pivotal album captures the band at a creative high point, blending soaring melodies, powerful performances, and Phil Mogg’s unmistakable voice. The lineup had modified a little with the debut of keyboardist/guitarist Neil Carter, replacing Paul Raymond. Carter also supplied backing vocal and saxophone on ‘Lonely Heart.

Lead singer Phil Mogg recalled, “Neil had a box of tricks. Getting the backing vocals was great, though I still don’t think he’s forgiven me for making him play saxophone. He was a great add to the band. Plus, he was a nice bloke.”

Drummer Andy Parker said “Neil was just an incredible musician. He brought another energy into the band.

This deluxe edition also includes a brand-new mix of the previously unreleased Live at the Hammersmith Odeon, recorded on January 29th, 1981, by Brian Kehew, offering an electrifying snapshot of UFO’s energy on stage. Original 7” edits of the two singles "Couldn't Get It Right" and "Lonely Heart" released with this album are included as well as an alternative mix of album standout “It’s Killing Me”.

The set is rounded out with newly written liner notes by Michael Hann, featuring fresh interviews with Phil Mogg and Andy Parker, alongside a collection of previously unseen photographs from the era — making it an essential addition for fans and collectors alike.

“The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent is, hands down, the best UFO studio album: it’s melodic, it’s experimental, it’s memorable, and it rocks. It was the perfect encapsulation of everything UFO could be.”
– MICHAEL HANN, LINER NOTES

UFO ‘The Wild, The Willing and The Innocent’ (2026 Remaster – Deluxe Edition) is released on double CD and 3LP on May 1st, 2026 on Chrysalis Records. Order link: https://ufo.lnk.to/TWTWATI

Unverkalt Unveil Heavy and Hearfelt New Album Héréditaire

Unverkalt have always been drawn to the edge. Since emerging from Greece’s underground catacombs in 2017, the five-piece post-metal band have balanced boundless atmosphere with suffocating heaviness. But now, on their upcoming third album and first for Season of Mist, they are plunging into the darkness that’s always waited for them below. While wrestling with the weight of our accursed history, Héréditaire now stands as their heaviest and most heartfelt offering.

Héréditaire comes out tomorrow, Friday, February 27 on Season of Mist, but you can hear all nine foundation-shaking songs today by listening to the full album playlist on the Season of Mist YouTube channel.  

“Our aim has always been to blend softer, more romantic elements with extreme chaos. With Héréditaire that time has now come”, Unverkalt’s guitarist and chief composer Themis Ioannou says. “This album is a lament for what is far older than our very existence. It speaks of what seeps through generations, searching for an answer to one pervasive question: What do we carry that was never ours?”

Pre-order

https://orcd.co/unverkalthereditaire

Pre-save on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/5ndUNl3HyjsagbOuQCrakn?si=QESfESdPQwqHTC5MKNX4Jw

“This album is not meant to resolve”, the band says, “but to dissolve patterns from those who came before, faceless yet familiar. The colors have drained. What remains is veiled in black, not as a symbol, but as a truth that covers everything”.

On Héréditaire, Unverkalt lift the veil on our cursed existence with their heaviest and most heartfelt offering.

Recording Lineup:
Dimitra Kalavrezou — Vocals
Themis Ioannou — Guitars, Keys
Eli Mavrychev — Guitars, Vocals
Joscha Hoyer — Bass
Christian Eggers — Drums

Guest Musicians:
Sakis Tolis — Vocals on "I, The Deceit"

Songwriting Credits:
Comped by Themis Ioannou.
Lyrics by Dimitra Kalavrezou & Eli Mavrychev.
Lyrics for "I, The Deceit" by Dimitra Kalavrezou & Joscha Hoyer.

Recording Credits:
Recorded & Engineered by Unverkalt.
Drums Recorded & Engineered by Christian Eggers at Noir Surge Sound, Berlin, Germany.

Production Credits:
Produced by Themis Ioannou.
Vocals produced by Dimitra Kalavrezou & Eli Mavrychev.
Mixed by Joshua Barber.
Mastered by Lasse Lammert at LSD Studios, Lübeck, Germany.

Cover Art:
Themis Ioannou

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/unverkalthereditaire

Available Formats:
CD Digipak
2x12" Vinyl Gatefold — Black
2x12" ​Coloured Vinyl ​Gatefold ​— Black & Gold 'Sunburst'

Follower Unverkalt:
Bandcamp: https://unverkalt.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unverkalt/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unverkalt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Unverkalt/
Twitter: https://x.com/unverkalt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@unverkaltofficial/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/55vU7DZVwI4ks0NpfKDAvK/
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/unverkalt/1524174404/
Last FM: https://www.last.fm/music/Unverkalt/

ADIA CLARK LAY Hooks Listeners with Catchy New Country Single “Go Fish” Out Now

Rising country artist ADIA CLARK LAY is set to make a splash with the release of her brand-new single, “Go Fish,” arriving on all streaming platforms today. Blending playful storytelling with heartfelt country authenticity, “Go Fish”showcases Adia’s signature sound — equal parts charm, confidence, and modern

country flair.

With its infectious melody, relatable lyrics, and radio-ready production, “Go Fish” delivers a refreshing anthem about self-worth, patience, and letting love come naturally. The track captures the spirit of contemporary country while staying rooted in classic storytelling, making it a perfect fit for both traditional country fans and today’s new wave of listeners.

“Go Fish” highlights ADIA CLARK LAY'S ability to turn real-life emotions into memorable songs that resonate long after the first listen.

ADIA CLARK LAY continues to carve out her space in the country music scene with a sound that is both genuine and radio-friendly. “Go Fish”is poised to connect with audiences through its fun energy and relatable message, making it an ideal addition to country, hot country, and Americana playlists.

The single features a warm, polished arrangement layered with bright instrumentation and a hook that is as catchy as it is empowering.

METALITE Sign Worldwide Deal With PERCEPTION And Unleash Brand-New Single “Our Time Has Come”!

Swedish modern power metal force METALITE have officially signed a worldwide contract with PERCEPTION - A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music, marking a major new milestone in the band’s rapidly ascending career! Following the signing, the band have unleashed their brand-new single, “Our Time Has Come”, a high-energy anthem that showcases everything fans have come to expect from METALITE: massive melodies, driving riffs, and a futuristic edge wrapped in razor-sharp production.

Guitarist, producer, songwriter and founder Edwin Premberg comments: “We’re beyond excited to finally share our new single Our Time Has Come with you. This song kicks off a powerful new chapter for METALITE and marks the beginning of our upcoming concept album 'Discovery' where the story continues on a new planet and humanity begins a new life. It’s a classic METALITE track - full of high energy, soaring melodies, and that unmistakable METALITE sound. This is only the beginning, and we can’t wait to take this journey together with you”.

With its soaring vocal lines, pounding rhythm section, and cinematic synth layers, “Our Time Has Come” captures METALITE at full throttle. The track blends melodic precision with modern production punch, delivering an arenaready chorus that’s impossible to ignore.

Listen to “Our Time Has Come” below:

ABOUT METALITE

Formed in 2015 by guitarist Edwin Premberg and vocalist Emma Bensing, the band quickly gained recognition for its fresh and modern take on melodic metal and their 2017 debut album Heroes in Time set the stage for METALITE’s rise.

In 2019, the band entered a new era with Biomechanicals, marking the debut of vocalist Erica Ohlsson. With an even more refined sound, the album embraced electronic elements and pulsating rhythms, elevating METALITE’s futuristic vision, further solidifying the band’s reputation as innovators in the genre.

Their evolution continued with A Virtual World in 2021, an album that expanded on their sci-fi themes while delivering massive soundscapes and powerful melodies.

With Expedition One (2024), METALITE embarked on their most ambitious project to date. A visionary concept album set in the year 2055, it tells the story of a renegade team searching for a new world, exploring themes of human evolution, technology, and survival.

In 2024, the band welcomed drummer Erik Junttila to the lineup, bringing new energy and power to their sound. His premiere gig with the band took place in Linköping at the beginning of 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in METALITE’s journey. Since then, they completed several tours with bands like Pain, Leaves’ Eyes and the Night Flight Orchestra and played at several festivals, including Sweden Rock and Masters of Rock.

With millions of streams and a growing global fanbase, METALITE continues to redefine the future of melodic metal. Their fusion of cutting-edge sound design, anthemic choruses, and sci-fi-inspired storytelling has set them apart, proving that their journey is far from over. Stay tuned - a new discovery awaits!

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Guitarist Eric Steckel Returns With "Back To Life" Video

Internationally acclaimed blues-rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter Eric Steckel has released his new single "Back to Life" via OPEN/SPV Recordings. Equal parts soulful and high-voltage, the track captures Steckel's signature blend of blues intensity and hard-rock power — an uplifting statement built on massive guitar tone, emotional melody, and a chorus made to pull you back from the edge.

Watch the video below.

Stream the single here.

"'Back to Life' is, quite simply, my personal tribute to the sacred art form that is music," says Steckel. "Its restorative powers have guided me and protected me from a very young age and still do to this day. I wanted this song to resonate with anyone who shares in the appreciation of music and the resuscitation it brings us when life has us at the end of our ropes. Sometimes the only thing standing between despair and survival is a 'melody that finds us in our darkest hour.'"

In an era where pedalboards, laptops and samples have become commonplace, Eric Steckel goes against the grain — harking listeners back to the days when great guitars were played loudly through great amps. Hailed by many as one of the leading modern voices in blues rock, Steckel delivers a powerhouse performance that has left audiences in 30+ countries mesmerized. His signature blend of hard rock and blues ” often dubbed "bluesmetal" — is must-see for fans of guitar-driven music. Steckel's story began early: His debut album A Few Degrees Warmer was recorded live when he was just 11. He has shared the stage with or opened for legends including Ray Charles, Steve Vai, Gregg Allman, B.B. King, John Mayall, and Johnny Winter.

Eric Steckel's momentum is also reflected online, with a rapidly growing fanbase and strong engagement across platforms — currently 149,000 followers on Instagram and 168,000 followers on Facebook.

PHOTO CREDIT: Greg Vorobiov

PALE HORSE RITUAL Unleash New Music Video For “Bloody Demon” From Debut Album Diabolic Formation

PALE HORSE RITUAL have released the official music video for “Bloody Demon,” a single taken from their debut full-length album Diabolic Formation, available now via Black Throne Productions.

Watch and purchase the album here: https://blackthroneproductions.com/products/pale-horse-ritual-enchantress-copy 

Directed by Chris Babalis of Chris’ Witchy Stuff, the “Bloody Demon” video captures the band’s heavy sound and dark philosophical themes through a raw visual approach. Featuring footage shot by Ryan Hilton, Jeff Burbridge, Dave Machado, and Chris Lazaar, the video serves as a visual companion to one of the album’s most personal tracks.

“Bloody Demon” explores themes of self-acceptance and rebellion against societal expectations, embracing personal flaws, controversial viewpoints, and the isolation that can come with rejecting conformity. Told through the perspective of a godless man dealing with heartbreak and devotion to a dangerously intoxicating love, the song confronts loneliness, emotional ruin, and attachment to destructive relationships.

Diabolic Formation is the debut full-length release from PALE HORSE RITUAL, officially formed in 2024 by lifelong musical collaborators Paco (bass and vocals) and Jonah Santa-Barbara (drums). The duo joined forces with CANNABUS frontman and lead guitarist James Matheson, forming a creative partnership rooted in heavy rock, doom influence, and direct emotional expression.

Later that year, the band entered the studio with producer and musician Will Adams to record Diabolic Formation. Adams later joined PALE HORSE RITUAL during the album’s creation, contributing rhythm guitar and backing vocals and helping shape the band’s evolving sound.

About PALE HORSE RITUAL
Steeped in mysticism, PALE HORSE RITUAL create an spellcasting blend of doom, occult rock and vintage metal. Based out of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, the band formed in 2024 and their sound is driven by gritty vocals, sludgy riffs, and pounding rhythms that channel the spirit of 1970s heavy music with a modern, gothic edge. Following their alluring 2024 EP titled Enchantress, the quartet are preparing to unveil the full-length, Diabolic Formation on November 28, via Black Throne Productions. 

Line Up: 
Paco (Bass/Vocals)
James Matheson (Lead Guitar)
Will Adams (Rhythm Guitar/Backing Vocals)
Jonah Santa-Barbara (Drums)

Album Credits:
Producer: Will Adams
Recording Studio: Green Mountain Ranch
Engineer: Will Adams at Tell Me About It… Records
Mastering: Zack Hollow at Z Hollow Studios
Mixing: Will Adams

Guest Musicians:
Dom Valela- Keys, Vocals
Doom Valhalla- Italian Preacher

Links:
Bandcamp: https://palehorseritual.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palehorseritual/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaleHorseRitualBand
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pale.horse.ritual

GORGONAUT Release New Single "Vernix Caseosa", A Riff Forward Statement From Chicago’s Emerging Heavy Project

Chicago-based solo project GORGONAUT presents the new single "Vernix Caseosa". "Vernix Caseosa" leans into movement and energy, embracing a lighter and more immediate spirit within GORGONAUT’s evolving sound. Built around momentum rather than thematic weight, the track emphasizes groove, drive, and impact, allowing the music itself to carry the experience without overt narrative framing.

Guitars remain the dominant force throughout, paying tribute to classic metal traditions while locking tightly into pulse-driven rhythms supported by synthesized and textural elements. The arrangement prioritizes propulsion, with dense riff work sustaining intensity beneath the vocal lines and maintaining constant forward motion.

In its closing moments, the song expands beyond its grounded foundation, introducing layered orchestration that pushes the finale into deliberately heightened territory. The result balances heaviness with scale, reinforcing GORGONAUT’s interest in blending aggression with cinematic atmosphere.

About GORGONAUT:

Created by multi-instrumentalist Ryan Bruchert, known for work with BLACK SITES, HEWHOCORRUPTS, TRIALS, CENTAURUS, GORGONAUT serves as a focused creative platform unrestricted by stylistic boundaries. The project combines heavy guitar driven songwriting with electronic textures, atmospheric layering, and digital influences drawn from both metal and contemporary electronic music.

Drawing influence from artists such as DEVIN TOWNSEND, VOLA, VOYAGER, MOON TOOTH, DREAM THEATER, and THE BIRTHDAY MASSACRE, GORGONAUT continues to explore the intersection of metal, electronic composition, and immersive sound design while pursuing a distinctly personal creative direction.