This Gift Is A Curse Ascend into Darkness on New Single

January 21, 2025

Though they bonded together after a chance encounter, for the past 16 years, This Gift Is A Curse have pushed the confines of underground metal to violent extremes. On their upcoming fourth album, the Swedish band extend their all-encompassing reign with a cold, hard fist. Heir claims metal's crown of thorns behind an unruly arsenal of hardcore and sludge-encrusted black metal.

Today, This Gift Is A Curse are releasing the second single off Heir. "Ascension" serves as the album's harrowing finisher, summoning the darkness that dwells within us all.

Listen to "Ascension" below.

Heir comes out March 7, 2025 on Season of Mist.

Pre-order & Pre-save

https://orcd.co/thisgiftisacurseheir

"Ascension" is a post-apocalyptic liturgy that delves into the arcane spectrum of the human soul. This Gift Is A Curse unleash a torrent of blackened riffs, cascading over relentless blast beats that echo the primordial chaos from which all darkness is spawned. Jonas A. Holmberg vocals tear through the soul with a visceral intensity, swallowing you inside a ritualistic trance. Livmødr's Laura Morgan's haunting chants weave through the aural onslaught, providing an otherworldly contrast that beckons the spirit to rise amidst the ashes and transcend into the realm of shadows.

This Gift Is A Curse defies the transient trends of music, instead choosing to carve its path with the bones of the fallen. Their forthcoming album, 'HEIR,' is a relentless pursuit of the extreme, a mosaic of human suffering and the dark beauty that lies within. As the album prepares to sear its mark upon the world, one thing is clear: There will be no heirs to the throne of darkness that This Gift Is A Curse occupies. The crown is theirs alone, forged in the fires of creation and destruction, a beacon for those who dare to walk the shadows.

Line-up
Jonas A. Holmberg - Vocals
Patrik Andersson - Guitars, Vocals
David Deravian - Guitars
Lars Gunnarsson - Bass
Christian Augustin - Drums

Recording Studio
The Overlook Studio, Gävle, Sweden

Production Credits
Produced, Engineered & Mixed by William Blackmon at The Overlook Studio.
Mastered by Magnus Lindberg at Redmount Studios, Stockholm, Sweden.
Guitars recorded at Laard studios and House of Inge Studio. Engineered by Daniel Noring and TGIAC.
Bass recorded at Cold Barn with the help of Daniel Noring.
Vocals recorded at Cold Barn by TGIAC.

Guest Musicians
Laura Morgan (of Livmødr) - Vocals on Kingdom (Track 1), Old Space (Track 9) & Ascension (Track 10).

Cover Art
Jonas A. Holmberg / House of No Light .317 (Instagram)

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

Follow This Gift Is A Curse
Bandcamp: http://thisgiftisacurse.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thisgiftisacurse
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisgiftisacurse/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7MoipbqoshfYNfckhzRtYC
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/this-gift-is-a-curse/405256386
Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/1005843
TIDAL: https://tidal.com/browse/artist/3813169

Nikitaa Unveils Heartfelt Piano Ballad "Snail Mail" Inspired by Personal Story Chronicles the Confusion of Young Love and Identity

October 18, 2024

October 18th - Singer-songwriter, Nikitaa, has released their deeply emotional new single, "Snail Mail," today. The piano-based ballad explores the complexities of first loves, the confusion of navigating sexuality at a young age, and the personal journey of understanding one's identity. With delicate harmonies that build

toward a powerful crescendo, "Snail Mail" merges tender storytelling with a stirring sonic progression to create a beautiful and emotional musical experience.

"Snail Mail" draws inspiration from Nikitaa’s own pre-teen experience when a girl in 7th grade developed a silent crush on her, remaining quiet due to the social stigma surrounding homosexuality at the time. Through this song, Nikitaa reflects on the confusion of those early feelings and her evolving understanding of her demisexuality, a topic still underrepresented in mainstream music. By expressing these personal challenges, Nikitaa opens a door for listeners who may have faced similar experiences.

Co-written with her friend Lily Lyons, the title "Snail Mail" was inspired by Lily's childhood memory of receiving type-written love letters from a boy. Both Nikitaa and Lily tapped into these formative experiences, drawing parallels between their early crushes and how societal taboos around sexuality shaped those interactions. Their collaboration captures the vulnerability and innocence of young love, creating a relatable and poignant narrative.

"Snail Mail" follows the release of Nikitaa’s EP, Ascension, which debuted in July. Ascension reflects Nikitaa’s personal journey over the past few years, exploring themes of loneliness, loss, and ultimately self-reclamation. The EP is a raw and authentic narrative, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit and the rediscovery of one's own identity and sexuality. Much like Ascension, "Snail Mail" continues the conversation of finding light after darkness and embracing the complexity of life’s emotional and personal challenges.

MORE INFO:
Nikitaa, an LA-based artist born and raised in India, infuses their music with ethereal Pop/R&B influences and their South Asian heritage, creating what they call Goddess Pop - music that emphasizes the fluidity of gender and emotional expression. As a genderfluid demisexual person, who predominantly uses they/them pronouns, Nikitaa is always emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the music industry. With over 6 million YouTube views/Spotify streams combined, Nikitaa’s music has captured the attention of listeners instantly.

Throughout 2023, Nikitaa explored themes of vulnerability and strength in singles like “Scheming,” “On My Own,” “Peter Pan,” “Throne,” “Daddy Era,” and “Truman Show,” receiving recognition from Rolling Stone India, Radio One India, and Ones To Watch playlist Now Watching. Additionally, Nikitaa's keen ear and exceptional lyricism have led to brand placements with Splice’s Pride Month and South Asian Heritage Month campaigns.

Nikitaa’s work as a songwriter extends beyond their own projects, with credits on tracks for artists such as Trophy Boy (Nightmare, T.O.F.U, & Trophy Boy), Srushti Tawde (Breakfast Over Bae), RIKA (Grown Up), Aastha Gill, Munawar Faruqi, and Robica.

Inspired by artists like Beyonce for her knack for genre bending, fluidity in style and vocal prowess, and Jon Bellion for his overall songwriting; Nikitaa continues to push boundaries, blending genres and incorporating Indian and Middle Eastern instrumentation into their music. Prior to this release, Nikitaa has released her EP and five other singles including "Pillow Prince," “Delirious Summer,” “Elevator,” “Heaven,” and "Godless” which Rolling Stone included in their "Songs You Need To Know" roundup.

A Burden To Bear Release New Single “Ascension" (feat. Spencer Charnas); New EP “With Empty Eyes and Hollow Hearts

July 23, 2022

“Ascension" (feat. Spencer Charnas) can be streamed/downloaded at:

https://withkoji.com/@abtbofficial

A Burden To Bear released their brand new single “Ascension" (feat. Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills) to all major platforms. The single, mixed by Robin Leijon, is from their EP With Empty Eyes and Hollow Hearts due out on 9/16/22.

The band states, "'Ascension' was a song that came together very organically with all five members in the room throwing out opinions and building off each other. Spencer Charnas’ feature came about very naturally as well, as it stemmed from a conversation between Spencer and ABTB guitarist Wyatt in Kleaver Klothing’s booth at Warped Tour. While hesitant at first to work with a producer, Justin Aufdemkampe proved a trusted source of advice and inspiration for ABTB. His studio, Refraze Records, in Dayton Ohio quickly became a home away from home for the band."

Fort Wayne, Indiana's own A BURDEN TO BEAR is much like the calm before a nasty storm - captivating audiences with beautiful harmony and melody just to bring them crashing back down to Earth with a display of utter aggression and power. A BURDEN TO BEAR is the product of the hardships and triumphs of five young men who have devoted their life and soul to the music they create.

In 2020 A BURDEN TO BEAR released their single "Forlorn Hope," and it was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback. "Forlorn Hope" has managed to amass over 180,000 streams on Spotify and over 180,000 views on YouTube in just over one year. The band looks to continue to improve and build upon this initial success with every song they release.

A BURDEN TO BEAR's upcoming EP With Empty Eyes and Hollow Hearts is more than just a rebirth, it is a statement of who they are becoming as both people and a band. "ABTB" is building their legacy from the ground up with this fresh, new take on melodic metalcore. The band has been working with producer Justin Aufdemkampe (Miss May I, War Of Ages) to craft and perfect their most riveting and impressive release to date. "A Burden To Bear’s new single 'Ascension' is a perfect blend of crushing guitar riffs, melodic melodies and heavy breakdowns wrapped up in one big present for the masses. It was a pleasure to produce and work along side the band with this catchy tune!" says Justin.

Adds Spencer Charnas, "It sounds like they have an early Unearth and It Dies Today influence and that is really cool."

ABTB Show Dates:
Saturday 7/23 @ Legends in Cincinnati, OH
Saturday 9/17 @ Piere’s in Fort Wayne, IN EP Release Show w/ Monuments

A Burden to Bear are:

Frontman/Harsh Vocals: Joe Contreras
Guitar/Clean Vocals: Nick Vawter
Guitar: Wyatt Traxler
Bass/Backing Vocals: Austin Pocock
Drums: Matt Smythe

For More Information Please Visit:

Ignescent's New EP Ascension OUT NOW!

March 4, 2022

IGNESCENT released their new EP Ascension today!

Female fronted and from Chicago, Illinois, IGNESCENT is a rock band founded by Jennifer Benson. Since 2008, the band has been primarily touring throughout the Midwest and Nashville area. IGNESCENT headlined the Budweiser Boneyard Stage last year at Rock Fest in Cadott, Wisconsin. IGNESCENT have opened for Stryper, Flyleaf, Eve 6, Buckcherry, Megadeth, Saliva, Lacey Sturm, Otep, John Cooper of Skillet's band - Fight The Fury, Dan Sperry of America's Got Talent, Another Lost Year, September Mourning, Art of Dying, Letters From The Fire, Like a Storm and has played at fests with Switchfoot, Colton Dixon, Memphis May Fire, The Devil Wears Prada, and Veridia. The band has co-written songs with Jeremy Valentyne of New Years Day, including their release "Exodus," which he also produced and performed on.

IGNESCENT’s music is a great mixture of rock and pop with a great message. Their music has a rock/alternative edge that sounds right at home with most Top 40 formats. IGNESCENT combines their musical backgrounds to form a harmony that is both addictively musical and inspiring.

IGNESCENT is more than just a rock band, they are real people with a combination of great stories, combined with moving guitar riffs and a driving beat create a sound fans connect to. Their influences include Flyleaf, Evanescence, and Jinjer. “We’re authentic people that just want to encourage others with our message", shares Jennifer Benson.

IGNESCENT’s first CD, Electrified, was produced by four-time Dove Award winning & Grammy nominated producer Travis Wyrick (10 Years, P.O.D.) and recorded at Lakeside Studios in Knoxville, Tennessee. The first song on the CD, “Calling Out to You”, was co-written with former lead guitarist of Skillet, Ben Kasica. IGNESCENT's newest release was produced by Cameron Pierce Mizell who has worked with Memphis May Fire and Sleeping With Sirens. IGNESCENT also co-wrote a song with Sameer Bhattacharya of Flyleaf called "Fearless". IGNESCENThas already been booked at Rock Fest in Cadott, WI summer of 2022 and will be appearing with special guest Sameer Bhattacharya.

WATCH "Remnant" Official Music Video:

IGNESCENT is:

Jennifer Benson on lead vocals

Ian Sebastian on bass guitar

Ty Moreland on guitar

Joshua Garcia on drums

Ignescent on Tour:

March 4 - Ignescent EP Release Show featuring Sameer Bhattacharya of Flyleaf with Fallen Phobia and The Protest at The Town in Aurora, IL
March 11 - Ignescent at The Back Bar with Trapt in Janesville, WI
May 7 - Ignescent at Suicide Awareness Show in Chicago - place tbd
May 13 - Ignescent at WC Social Club with Disciple in West Chicago, IL
July 15 - Ignescent at Rock Fest in Cadott, WI featuring Sameer Bhattacharya of Flyleaf on guitar

For More Information Please Visit:

Ignescent Releases New Single "Remnant" + Official Music Video; EP Ascension to Release March 4, 2022 1

February 10, 2022

"We will not be silent and we will not back down. We are the remnant."

"Remnant" can be bought/streamed at:

https://linktr.ee/Ignescentmusic

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ignescent/remnant

IGNESCENT released their new single "Remnant" to all major platforms! The single is from their EP Ascension that drops March 4, 2022.

"The definition of remnant is a small remaining quantity of something, especially after a tragedy. 'Remnant' is about us being blessed beyond measure despite our failures and weaknesses and despite going through tragedy and hardships. It's about perseverance and saying to the world even when we are brokenhearted and suffering we won't give up and we will keep going," vocalist Jennifer Benson says. "We will come up stronger despite adversity. It's an encouragement to others to do the same and to not lose hope and to not give in to fear. I hope this song makes people feel inspired and to rock out!" says the band.

IGNESCENT is:

Jennifer Benson on lead vocals

Ian Sebastian on bass guitar

Ty Moreland on guitar

Joshua Garcia on drums

Ignescent on Tour:

For More Information Please Visit:

Ignescent Releases New Single "Remnant" + Official Music Video; EP Ascension to Release March 4, 2022

January 21, 2022

"We will not be silent and we will not back down. We are the remnant."

"Remnant" can be bought/streamed at:

https://linktr.ee/Ignescentmusic

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ignescent/remnant

WATCH "Remnant" Official Music Video:

below

IGNESCENT released their new single "Remnant" to all major platforms today! The single is from their EP Ascension that drops March 4, 2022.

IGNESCENT is:

Jennifer Benson on lead vocals

Ian Sebastian on bass guitar

Ty Moreland on guitar

Joshua Garcia on drums

Ignescent on Tour:

March 5 - Ignescent at Route 20 in Sturtevant, WI featuring Sameer Bhattacharya of Flyleaf on guitar
March 11 - Ignescent at The Back Bar with Trapt in Janesville, WI
May 7 - Ignescent at Suicide Awareness Show in Chicago - place tbd
May 13 - Ignescent at WC Social Club with Disciple in West Chicago, IL
July 15 - Ignescent at Rock Fest in Cadott, WI featuring Sameer Bhattacharya of Flyleaf on guitar

For More Information Please Visit:

REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER Shares Full Roadburn Redux Performance

May 17, 2021

French black metal formation REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER are now releasing the full live performance of their set from Roadburn Redux's online festival. The band played their 2020 full-length 'Ascension' in full.

'Ascension' is available to stream, download, and purchase HERE.

France's REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER rose from the shadows in 2013 with a massive self-titled album released through Les Acteurs De L'Ombre Productions. The band instantly imprinted its vision on the metal community: an epic blend of atmospheric black metal, sludge and death metal spreading out a dark universe inspired by the sacred scriptures.

In 2015, the second full length 'Exile' came out and intensified the quintet’s music, bringing in more extreme influences and developing a dramatic sense of narration through cunningly balanced songs.

REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER earned the respect from metal fans with intense and ritualistic live shows and the band’s mystic aura thrilled audiences at Hellfest, Roadburn Festival and Dour Festival. Performances at multiple clubs across Europe followed alongside DER WEG EINER FREIHEIT, YOB, ENSLAVED and AMENRA.

In 2020, the French band will return with the closing chapter of their trilogy, called 'Ascension'. Continuing the narration after 'Exile', the record marks an end and a new beginning. Joining forces with Season of Mist for the release of this album, REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER herald a new era and a new order with their own fuse of black metal.

REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER deliver a unique creation about the most remarkable protagonists from the holy writings. All trapped by fate, the inevitable way to toward loss and defeat. All starts and all ends with a fall.

Genre: Black metal

Recording and Mixing: Francis Caste, Studio Sainte Marthe

Mastering: Francis Caste, Studio Sainte Marthe

Cover artwork: Fortifem

Line-up:
Vocals : T.C
Guitar : J.J.S
Guitar : A.M
Bass : A.B
Drums : R.R

Pre-sales: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/RLHTAscension

Available Formats:
CD digipak, cassette and coloured vinyl

For more on REGARDE LES HOMMES TOMBER, visit their official FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, and BANDCAMP.