ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD Present Epic Interpretation Of ALICE COOPER's "Poison" Feat. ANTHEA

ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD has unleashed an epic and cinematic reimagining of ALICE COOPER's iconic track "Poison". This release sees the symphonic progressive metal ensemble join forces with Los Angeles based symphonic/melodic metal band, ANTHEA. 

The alluring gothic mood of "Poison" is enhanced through ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD's immersive musical arrangement. Intensity arises from the ferocious heaviness of the metal instrumentation while orchestral and synth layers sculpt an enveloping atmosphere. Haunting harmonies and technical prowess on display from ANTHEA's vocalists Diego Valadez, Juna Pina, Astrid Anaya, and Mel Del Real elevate the track with a touch of the ethereal. 

ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD honor the character and impact of the original song while infusing the arrangement their own distinctive compositional qualities. Produced by ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD, "Poison" was recorded at Counter Communications with engineering, mixing and mastering by Chris Wirsig. The track's cover art was created by JD McGibney.

About ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD:

Based out of Los Angeles, CA, ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD began as a side project for guitarist JD McGibney (ex-VOODOO KUNGFU) before augmenting to a full line-up in 2021. Alongside McGibney, the instrumental symphonic progressive metal band is now comprised of Jason Klein on bass (ex-BUTCHER BABIES), Eddie Trager on drums (ex-NEKROGOBLIKON) and Chris Wirsig on keyboards (award winning TV and film composer).

The ethos of the band is to empower listeners through music, to assist individuals who are fighting on their own battlefields and to help them find courage. ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD strive to improve awareness of and discourse around mental illness through the power of heavy metal. The band made their live debut at the 2022 "This Is My Brave" mental health fundraiser, where the band helped to raise around $30,000 to donate to local Los Angeles mental health charities.

2024 saw ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD open for Taiwanese folk metal artist NiNi at her debut USA headline show in November of 2024. In the following year, the quartet embarked on their debut headline West Coast tour across October/November of 2025.

In 2025, ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD's 2024 single release "Modern Prometheus" was long listed in the 2025 GRAMMY Awards in three categories: Best Metal Performance, Best Instrumental Composition and Best Arrangement - Instrumental or A Capella. Additionally, "Modern Prometheus" was nominated in the Hollywood Independent Music Awards in 2025.

Following the band's haunting interpretation of "Phantom of the Opera" featuring guitarist Eli Santana (IGNITE, ex-HUNTRESS, ex-HOLY GRAIL), ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD deliver untamable power in the new single "Poison" featuring ANTHEA. 

ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD is:

JD McGibney - Guitar
Jason Klein - Bass
Chris Wirsig - Keyboard/Orchestration
Eddie Trager - Drums
 

Connect with ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD:

Official Website: https://onthewingsofdragons.com/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelsOnTheBattlefieldBand/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angels_on_the_battlefield/ 
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/aotb_band :
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelsonthebattlefield 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6vQV1dRMKNBHCRku2IsPMU?si=RoaUH-SuTCq5nRsPMrgpEg 
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/angels-on-the-battlefield/1441558520 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aotbband

THROWLIGHT Unveil Dark And Ruthless Video For Their Track, "Monster"

Modern, genre-fusing act THROWLIGHT delve into the realms of horror with a gory music video for their track "Monster". The single is taken from the band's 2024 full-length offering, Monster.

Juxtaposing clean tones and fierce distortion, THROWLIGHT deliver a thrilling dynamic offering in "monster". Heavy rhythms and pounding percussion unleash power alongside aggressive harsh vocal performances. With the track's verses situated in the realms of rap metal, the movement and intensity rises and falls throughout. Showcasing further musical styles, the chorus presents a softer and lighter touch bringing an even darker twist to the track's narrative. 

Granted exclusive permission to film at The 17th Door in Buena Park, CA., home to an extreme haunt experience, the video for "Monster" was shot in a single 13-hour session. 

"Monster" was directed by Matthew Hersh, with Lucas Pitassi as director of photography. Starring LeeAnna Vamp, Gigi Gustin, Chelsea Cook, and Michelle Dee, the video was filmed on location at The 17th Door in Buena Park, CA.

About THROWLIGHT:

Hailing from South Orange County, THROWLIGHT cultivate a dynamic, genre-fusing sound from the diverse musical backgrounds of its members. Drawing from across punk, metal, rap, and hardcore, this fusion results in a unique style that combines heavy grooves, catchy leads, and rap verses designed to keep listeners' heads swinging. 

Inspired by iconic acts, notably DEFTONES, RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE, FAITH NO MORE, ICE CUBE, THE OFFSPRING, LINKIN PARK, the band's deep established bonds, having known each other since childhood, also infiltrate their stylistic sound. 

THROWLIGHT emerged through Kevin Betz and Chris Ellis joining to create a metal band, with underground rapper Rocom stepping up as lead vocalist. The addition of Rocom's longtime collaborator in rap, King of Somewhere, finalized the band's distinctive sound as he introduced his synth sounds leading to a blend of hip-hop with a heavy metal soundscape. THROWLIGHT unveiled their debut album Monster independently in 2024. 

MESHUGGAH Announce Remastered Anniversary Editions of Destroy Erase Improve and Catch Thirtythree

Swedish extreme metal architects MESHUGGAH announce the release of newly remastered anniversary editions of two of the band’s most important works: Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition and Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition. Both titles will be available on vinyl, CD digipack, and digitally, featuring the original album artwork and newly remastered audio. Both editions will be released on July 24th, 2026 via Reigning Phoenix Music. 

The releases follow their limited Record Store Day editions, which arrived this April with alternate/reimagined cover art. For these wider anniversary editions, MESHUGGAH return both albums to their original visual identities while preserving the enhanced, remastered sound created for this milestone campaign.

Originally released in 1995, Destroy Erase Improve marked a decisive turning point not only for MESHUGGAH, but for the future of heavy music itself. The album introduced a sharpened and unmistakable version of the band’s evolving language: machine-like rhythmic precision, dissonant riff architecture, jazz-fusion flashes, and a level of technical control that would become foundational to progressive, extreme, math, and djent-adjacent metal in the decades that followed. Widely regarded as one of the defining metal albums of the 1990s, Destroy Erase Improve remains a blueprint for the sound MESHUGGAH would make entirely their own.

To accompany Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition, the remastered single “Future Breed Machine” has been released, spotlighting one of the album’s most iconic and enduring tracks.

Pre-order the Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition here: https://meshuggah.rpm.link/destroy30PR

A decade later, MESHUGGAH pushed their vision even further with Catch Thirtythree. Released in 2005, the album stands as one of the band’s most singular statements: a continuous 47-minute composition divided into 13 movements, built around hypnotic repetition, shifting rhythmic illusions, crushing eight-string guitar work, and an atmosphere that remains uniquely immersive within the band’s catalog. Self-produced by MESHUGGAH, Catch Thirtythree also marked the band’s only full-length album built with programmed drums, using Toontrack’s Drumkit From Hell technology as part of its stark, futuristic design.

In celebration of Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition, the remastered track “Shed” has been released on all streaming platforms. 

Pre-order the Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition here: https://meshuggah.rpm.link/catch20PR

Both anniversary editions reaffirm the lasting impact of MESHUGGAH’s work across generations of heavy music. From the genre-redefining force of Destroy Erase Improve to the monolithic conceptual scope of Catch Thirtythree, these remastered releases offer longtime followers and new listeners alike the chance to experience two essential chapters in the band’s history with renewed clarity and weight.

Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition and Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition will be available on vinyl, CD digipack, and digital formats on July 24th. 

About MESHUGGAH:
 

Formed in Umeå, Sweden in 1987, MESHUGGAH have spent more than three decades redefining the outer limits of heavy music. Known for their groundbreaking use of complex polyrhythms, down-tuned guitars, dissonant atmospheres, and surgically precise execution, the band has become one of the most influential forces in extreme and progressive metal.

Across their catalog, MESHUGGAH have continually pushed their sound forward, from the technical thrash foundations of their earliest work to the genre-altering breakthroughs of Destroy Erase Improve, Chaosphere, Nothing, Catch Thirtythree, obZen, and beyond. Their music has had a profound impact on modern metal, inspiring generations of artists and helping shape the rhythmic vocabulary later associated with the djent movement, while remaining unmistakably singular in vision and execution.

Rather than following trends, MESHUGGAH have built an entire language of their own: mechanical yet human, cerebral yet crushing, and as hypnotic as it is devastating. With a reputation for uncompromising innovation and formidable live performances, MESHUGGAH continue to stand as one of the most original, challenging, and revered bands in heavy music.

Connect with MESHUGGAH:

V.B.O. Expose The Darker Side Of Modern Society In The New Single "Monsters!"

VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) look beyond the glamour and allure of the neon-lights in the new single release, "Monsters!". Beneath the luxury façade, something sinister awaits in V.B.O.'s fusion of retro-futuristic synths and heavy music. Comprised of Francesco Cavalieri (WIND ROSE) and Simone Giusti, a wizard of electronics and groove-laden basslines, Italy's V.B.O. is preparing to unveil the forthcoming full length, Vice Business Only, on July 24, 2026, via Reigning Phoenix Music.

Pre-order Vice Business Only HERE!

"'Monsters' dives into the darker side of modern society, exposing the vices we often choose to ignore or disguise." Reveals frontman Francesco Cavalieri. "In true VBO style, the video transforms these flaws into literal monsters, turning hidden truths into striking visual metaphors. Beneath the neon lights and cinematic aesthetic lies a deeper message; like a reflection of a world that often masks its imperfections behind glamour. Too excessive? No. It’s VBO baby."

V.B.O.'s characteristic catchy hooks and energized electronics are infused with a shadowy touch in "Monsters!". Explosive beats see "Monsters!" spark into life, before heavy rhythmic stabs and melodic guitar riffs emerge beneath an array of warm analogue synth textures. The memorable chorus lyric "we are monsters" injects an anthemic feel while the track's breakdown passage takes a darker turn. 

Filmed at Vacuum Club, Milan, V.B.O. lift the veil on the bloodthirsty monsters that hide in plain sight across the electric urban nightlife. 

Vice Business Only was recorded at LSD-Studios (Lübeck, Germany), produced, mixed and mastered by Lasse Lammert. Photography is by Onofrio Petronella and Tommaso Barletta, with the album cover artwork design by V.B.O. 

About V.B.O.:

VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) is a musical project founded in 2023 by Francesco Cavalieri, best known as the frontman of the power metal band WIND ROSE, together with electronic music producer Simone Giusti. The project marks a bold artistic shift for Cavalieri, moving from fantasy-driven metal into a modern, urban, and cinematic soundscape.

The band’s lineup is completed by Claudio Falconcini (guitar), Federico Meranda (keyboards), and Angelo Carmignani (drums), combining diverse musical backgrounds into a cohesive identity.

V.B.O. blends retro-futuristic synthwave with rock and metal, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and electrifyingly modern. Inspired by Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Daft Punk, and Justice, the band combines analog-style synths, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals into a polished, immersive experience.

At the core of V.B.O. lies a neon-drenched vision of excess, elegance, and cinematic nightlife—echoing the glamour and danger of cities like Miami. Themes of power, luxury, passion, and excess define the project, presenting the band almost as a stylized gang where image and attitude are as essential as the music.

The band made its live debut in January 2026 at the 70000 Tons of Metal festival in the United States, stepping onto one of the world’s most recognized international stages.

Since its inception, V.B.O. has positioned itself as a distinctive force in contemporary music, merging rock and metal energy with electronic groove and texture. More than a band, Vice Business Only delivers a complete audiovisual experience—a high-stakes journey through a retro-futuristic universe where the rhythm never slows and the attitude is larger than life.

V.B.O. Is:

Francesco Cavalieri - Vocals
Simone Giusti - Bass
Claudio Falconcini - Guitar
Federico Meranda - Keys
Angelo Carmignani - Drums


Connect With V.B.O.:

Website: https://www.vbomusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vicebusinessonly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vbomusic/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vbomusic

Chicago's CURSED AWAKENING Descend Into The Abyss With "Engulfing Void"

Descend into CURSED AWAKENING's "Engulfing Void". This is the newest single offering to land ahead of the band's forthcoming concept album Path Of A Soul, set to release later this year. The album's narrative follows a fresh born soul as it navigates its new existence in a dystopian landscape. 

Over the course of the track list, the fresh born soul stumbles through self-discovery and self-destruction. In "Engulfing Void", the introspective lyrics reveal discontentment at the life that has been lived. Approaching the beginning of the end within the album's narrative, the theme of this track also explores wider notions of regret, remorse and despair at not having lived the life one wanted. 

"Engulfing Void" carries an emotional weight, heavy with melancholy and a gloomy atmosphere. A somber guitar lead introduces the track with a mournful tone before CURSED AWAKENING unleash their thunderous heavy assault. Fast riffs and anguish fueled lyrics bring power while the instrumental layers across the chorus build intensity. "Engulfing Void" draws to a close returning to the forlorn passage first heard in the song's opening. 

About CURSED AWAKENING

Formed in Chicago, Illinois in 2021, CURSED AWAKENING (formerly known as ARRHYTHMIA) delivers a thrashy death metal sound rooted in classic influences such as DEATH, BOLT THROWER, AT THE GATES, SLAYER, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, and SUFFOCATION. Their music combines old school riffing, melodic passages, neoclassical soloing, and introspective lyricism that goes beyond surface level extremity.

After reforming under the CURSED AWAKENING name in early 2026, the band solidified their creative identity and lineup. The current lineup consists of Abraham Verdin on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, Michael Nystrom Bala on lead guitar, Brady Dukart on bass and backing vocals, and Ronnie James Keough on drums.

With 2024 bringing notable live performances in Chicago and beyond, CURSED AWAKENING continues to sharpen their sound and vision. The band's latest release of singles including "Past Newtonium" and "The Rift", alongside the newest "Rest In Chains", are further testament to the band's continuation and escalation, marking a darker and heavier chapter as the band moves toward their upcoming 2026 album.

CURSED AWAKENING is:

Abraham Verdin – Rhythm Guitar, Lead Vocals
Michael Nystrom Bala – Lead Guitar
Brady Dukart – Bass, Backing Vocals
Ronnie James Keough – Drums

Connect with CURSED AWAKENING:

BLACK SITES Present New Single "Giving Up The Ghost"

Chicago's heavy ensemble BLACK SITES present their next single release, "Giving Up The Ghost". Written about losing one's belief in a higher power, the new track arrives ahead of the band's forthcoming full length, For Eternity, set to release independently on July 17, 2026.

On the musical influences behind "Giving Up The Ghost", BLACK SITES founder Mark Sugar shares, "I was very much trying to channel Tony Iommi and Jimmy Page on this track. The intro is total Iommi worship, specifically what he did on 'Die Young'. The guitar overdubs at the end were an idea borrowed from Depeche Mode’s 'Policy of Truth'." 

Across the album's track list, BLACK SITES deliver impactful catchy choruses and lyrical hooks alongside a powerful riff-driven sound. "Giving Up The Ghost" showcases this stylistic direction with a highly emotive element that manifests through touches of orchestral strings and somber guitar leads. 

For Eternity was produced by Mark Sugar & Chris Black, recorded at I Can’t Believe It’s Not Mace Street Studios, with mixing and mastering by Dan Swano. Drums on For Eternity were recorded by Vladimir Ružičić at Kebac Recording Studio.

About BLACK SITES:
Based out of Chicago, IL, USA, BLACK SITES was founded in 2016, initially as a studio project, by vocalist and guitarist Mark Sugar. Sugar was later joined by members John Picillo (bass), Ryan Bruchert (guitar) and Chris Avgerin (drums). BLACK SITES combines old school metal with guitar harmonies, melodic/clean vocals and progressive elements, primarily drawing inspiration from the likes of VOIVOD, BLACK SABBATH, and KING’S X.

BLACK SITES released their debut In Monochrome in 2017 (Mascot/Provogue Records), followed by Exile in 2019. 2021 saw the release of Untrue that was produced by Sanford Parker and awarded Record Of the Year by Dr. A.N. Grier at AngryMetalGuy.com. BLACK SITES ventured to The Promised Land? with their 2024 full-length that featured Tom Draper. (Ex-CARCASS/SPIRIT ADRIFT) on the track "Chasing Eternity".

Now, in 2026, Mark Sugar is joined by new members Jose Salazar (bass), Lee Smith (guitar) and Chris Black (drums). The forthcoming album For Eternity is set to release independently on July 17, 2026.

BLACK SITES Is:
Mark Sugar (vocals, guitar)
Jose Salazar (bass)
Lee Smith (guitar)
Chris Black (drums)

Connect With BLACK SITES:
Bandcamp: https://blacksites.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blacksites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacksitesmusic
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blacksitesmusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blacksites
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0yY6r4UHQDv4BUOr5bKu1o

Out Today - "The Hollow One" by Corinne Westbrook

No stranger to the dark and macabre, The Hollow One is the debut novel from writer and horror-devotee Corinne Westbrook. With a combined interest in the shadowy side of art, music and literature, Westbrook has written for metal music outlets, notably Metal Injection and Knotfest, and is well acquainted with strange and uncanny storytelling.

Set for publication on May 26th, 2026, via Permuted Press, The Hollow One is a truly bloodcurdling psychological horror. Following the days of a young girl named Ellie, amidst the struggles of an absent mother, a baby brother and poverty, something more sinister soon takes hold of her life. When one evening her estranged father knocks on her bedroom window, what seems like a comforting dream begins to turn sour as this familial figure is perhaps not so familiar after all.

Told through the eyes of a child trying to make sense of a world that’s forgotten her, The Hollow One is a literary horror story about longing, memory, and the quiet danger of being unseen. Atmospheric, intimate, and deeply unsettling, this is a ghost story where the scariest things are not what lurk in the dark, but what’s already inside the house.

About Corinne Westbrook
Corinne Westbrook is a writer and journalist whose work explores the darker edges of art, music, and storytelling. She has written for outlets including Metal Injection and Knotfest, covering album reviews, features, annual "Top Albums" lists, and cultural commentary rooted in the strange and unconventional.

Raised in rural Oregon, Corinne discovered her love of writing early. Her first poem was published when she was ten years old. A lifelong horror devotee, she grew up staying up late with friends to watch Tales from the Crypt, drawn to stories that blur the line between the real and the unreal.

She believes the most haunting stories often have roots in reality. While The Hollow One is a work of fiction, it is shaped by emotional truths and experiences pulled from real life. This novel is her debut in long-form fiction.

SCAR OF THE SUN to Join WHISPERED on "Return of the Shogunate" European Tour 2026

Greek modern metal force SCAR OF THE SUN are set to return to the European stage this May. Joining Japanese samurai metal pioneers WHISPERED as direct support, SCAR OF THE SUN will also share the stage with TORCHIA and CEREMONY for a relentless run of shows across Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, Belgium, the Czech Republic, and Poland.

Known for their crushing blend of atmospheric heaviness, metalcore intensity, and djent-driven precision, SCAR OF THE SUN continue to push the boundaries of modern metal with a sound that is both cinematic and devastatingly aggressive. Formed in London in the late ‘00s and now based in Athens, Greece, the band has steadily evolved into one of Europe’s most distinctive heavy acts.

The Return of the Shogunate tour will see SCAR OF THE SUN bring their explosive live performance to audiences across ten cities, delivering material from across their acclaimed catalog alongside WHISPERED, TORCHIA, and CEREMONY.

Tickets are available HERE

About SCAR OF THE SUN

SCAR OF THE SUN is a Modern Metal band from Athens, Greece. Formed in London in the late ‘00s as a Modern Atmospheric Metal outfit, they progressively evolved and distilled their sound into an eclectic mix of Metalcore and Djent.

FIMBUL WINTER Present New Single "Crowned In Ash"

Forging a sound that is heavy, melodic and atmospheric, FIMBUL WINTER honor the legacy of their death metal foundations producing music that feels familiar yet is modern in its approach. "Crowned In Ash" is the latest release from FIMBUL WINTER following the 2025 debut EP What Once Was

With a line-up formed of three previous members of AMON AMARTH, and completed with Clint Williams, FIMBUL WINTER embarks on greater exploration and development of melodic death metal. Drawing from their knowledge and experience in AMON AMARTH, and expanding further their artistic boundaries, FIMBUL WINTER brings power, energy and intensity into all of their sonic offerings. 

"Crowned In Ash" emerges from the flames in an enticing soundscape infused with intriguing melodic leads. Driving rhythms take precedence pushing the track's momentum forward while guitar leads continue to entwine across the instrumental layers and Clint Williams' monstrous vocals are unleashed above. 

The band states "There was never a question of what we should sound like, we’ve been shaping this sound/genre for decades, this is in our DNA"

An authoritative force prevails across the choruses in "Crowned In Ash". The fast-pace lessens its grip to allow the progressions and vocal performance the space to land with thunderous impact. FIMBUL WINTER ensure the track's main riff remains compelling and constant throughout, while deploying enveloping, shifting dynamics throughout the musical arrangement. 

About FIMBUL WINTER:

Comprised of three former members of AMON AMARTH, including founding members Niko Kaukinen and Anders Biazzi, FIMBUL WINTER strive to redefine melodic death metal. Based out of Stockholm, Sweden and Melbourne, Australia, FIMBUL WINTER formed in 2023 building upon their roots and the members' legacies in Swedish death metal. 

FIMBUL WINTER's beginnings grew from a spontaneous reunion performing AMON AMARTH's 1994 demo titled The Arrival Of The Fimbul Winter. The instant connection between the musicians ignited a desire to create something new that captured the essence of Swedish death metal in an updated style that is clean and modern without being polished to its detriment. 2025 brought this vision to life with the unveiling of the ensemble's first EP, What Once Was.

The new single release, "Crowned In Ash" marks the band's continuing trajectory. FIMBUL WINTER push their compositional creativity while striving to remain truly authentic to a sound they helped to craft. 


FIMBUL WINTER Is:

Niko Kaukinen - Drums
Fredrik Andersson - Guitars
Anders Biazzi - Guitars
Clint Williams - Vocals

ETERNAL RECURRENCE Embarks On An Emotive Voyage In New Single "Eternal Recurrence" ft. Mordian

"Eternal Recurrence" is the new single release from ETERNAL RECURRENCE featuring guest vocal performance by Mordian (DIAMORTE and SHIELD OF WINGS). Drawing inspiration from chamber music, ETERNAL RECURRENCE offer an alternative, more intimate take on modern symphonic metal. "Eternal Recurrence" is the title track from the project's forthcoming, self-titled, debut EP due to arrive later this year.

In "Eternal Recurrence", the metaphor of a sea voyage represents a symbolic journey pertaining to the grief and struggles of experiencing miscarriages. Nautical imagery is present not only within the lyrics but also across the instrumental arrangement of the track. The implementation of the minor key and driving rhythm of the 'Ashoka'-style theme represent the inevitable storms faced along the way. Meanwhile, a softer, major key version of this theme performed on piano at the very end of the song signifies gentle lapping waves and a safe arrival into the habor.

Project founder, multi-instrumentalist and composer C. Alex Luke comments, "For those fighting against such choppy waters, it can be emotionally devastating to watch friends and family experience 'smooth sailing' as they have healthy children seemingly easily and without any difficulties or complications. After a couple of miscarriages, it can feel like the cycle of pregnancy and loss will 'eternally recur'."

Guest vocalist Mordian, who also appears on the first single “Precious Stones", returns on this track. Bringing an ethereal quality, Mordian contributes to powerful harmonized duets with C. Alex Luke, and an emotive lament in the song's bridge.

All material on Eternal Recurrence was composed around a chamber ensemble led by German Dmitriev on violins, Steven Schumann on cellos, Maciek Szczyciński on double bass, and C. Alex Luke on piano. These elements are combined with aggressive guitars, lead work, and drumming rooted firmly in modern metal.

The upcoming self-titled EP represents the first chapter for ETERNAL RECURRENCE and introduces the sonic identity that will guide the project moving forward. Support through Kickstarter will help fund recording, production, and the collaboration with the orchestral musicians who bring the music to life. Their page can be found HERE.

Listeners and supporters can learn more about the campaign and follow the progress of the EP through ETERNAL RECURRENCE’s Kickstarter page.

SEA SLEEPER Release New Track “Manifestor” From Upcoming Album Burden of Antlers

SEA SLEEPER has return with “Manifestor,” an ambitious, eight-minute journey that marks the band’s most expansive and progressive work to date. The track is the latest preview of their forthcoming sophomore album, Burden of Antlers, set for release on September 18, 2026.

Clocking in as the longest song the band has ever written, “Manifestor” captures Sea Sleeper at their most dynamic, shifting through a wide spectrum of moods while maintaining a striking sense of cohesion. Themes and motifs introduced in the opening minutes resurface and evolve throughout the track, creating a circular, immersive listening experience.

“Manifestor” offers a powerful glimpse into Burden of Antlers, Sea Sleeper’s second full-length release. Building on the foundation of their debut Nostophobia, the new album represents a more deliberate and cohesive creative vision. Rather than chasing constant change, the band leans into revisiting and expanding musical passages, exploring ideas in full and allowing them to evolve organically.

Formed by three longtime collaborators who have spent nearly 15 years crafting their take on heavy, unconventional metal, Sea Sleeper recently expanded their lineup with the addition of Tony Spradlin. The result is a tighter, more focused unit pushing deeper into the strange and weighty sound they’ve always aimed to create.

Burden of Antlers arrives September 18, 2026.

About SEA SLEEPER:

With a passion for death and post metal, SEA SLEEPER infuse their heavy sound with an array of genre influences to produce something more dynamically extreme. The band formed in 2019 comprised of Jesse Cooley (guitar/lead vocals), Shane Cooley (drums/vocals), and Nick Kessler (bass/vocals), with Tony Spradlin (lead guitar/vocals) subsequently completing the line-up in 2022. 

The debut EP Nihilism was released independently in 2019, followed by their acclaimed debut album Nostophobia. Released in 2021 via Metal Assault Records, Nostophobia garnered notable recognition achieving #10 album of the year for Noob Heavy and #7 spot for album of the year at GBHBL in 2021, as well as seeing the band become a Top Selling Bandcamp artist in the same year.


SEA SLEEPER Is: 

Jesse Cooley (Guitar/Lead Vocals)
Shane Cooley (Drums/Vocals)
Nick Kessler (Bass/Vocals)
Tony Spradlin (Lead Guitar/Vocals)


Connect With SEA SLEEPER:

Official Website: https://seasleeper.bandcamp.com
Bandcamp: https://seasleeper.bandcamp.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seasleeper/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sea_sleeper
Twitter/X: https://x.com/seasleeper
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@seasleeper7557?si=I54GO1VC1ZA5x3Wy
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1MVRa7wGpGY4EqqqEjVpMZ?si=KKq0Xb5_Qf6P_WwMte5EiA
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sea-sleeper/1384085890
Discord: https://discord.com/channels/947585206213296169/947594689123598396/1481135243078406271

ELEINE Releases New Single "Empire Of Lies": A powerful start to the upcoming album

Swedish metal band ELEINE return with their brand-new single “Empire Of Lies”! The first glimpse of their highly anticipated album set for release December 4th through RPM.
 
With “Empire Of Lies,” ELEINE channel a raw intensity that leaves a mark, both musically and lyrically. Driven by thunderous rhythms and heavy riffs, the song captures the suffocating weight of deception and the inevitable collapse of falsehood.
 
“Empire Of Lies” showcase the band’s signature blend of brutality and melody. Catchy yet heavy, dark yet empowering.
 
Founding members Rikard & Madeleine states:
 
“You may have asked yourself; “When will this end?”
When being lied about it’s easy to feel as if one lie pops up after the next.
 
Overwhelming, hurtful and unreal.
Some paint themselves as a martyr, savior and source of truth when in reality it is the
exact opposite. You’re caught in the middle of this, the one who can clearly see through
the deception and lies.
But an empire built on lies cannot and will not stand the test of time. When the lies get too heavy the empire will fall, and truth is found in the remains.
“Empire Of Lies” is energetic & powerful. It has a satisfying variety of rhythm, and we hope to hear the crowd chant along in the chorus on future live shows!” - Rikard & Madeleine
 

“Empire Of Lies” is out now on all major streaming platforms. Listen below:

Fans can listen to the the new single immediately and then join the official music video premiere on Monday, May 11 at 18:00 CEST. Save the premiere here: https://www.youtube.com/eleineofficial

About ELEINE

Empowering, brutal & captivating: Three strong words that describe the motivation behind the Swedish metal band ELEINE. In a world desperate for anthems and perseverance, ELEINE emerge as a force that transcends expectations. With a sound that is both brutal and melodic, and a presence that commands attention, ELEINE aren’t just another band - they’re a movement. Their music isn’t just heard;It’s felt in your bones, igniting a fire that reminds you of your own strength.

Empowerment, resilience, and raw emotion pulse through every note they play. Their latest full-length album, We Shall Remain [2023], isn’t just another record; it’s an uncompromising statement of survival and unity. Each track is crafted to uplift, inspire, and challenge the listener, forging an unbreakable bond between the band and their ever-growing legion of fans.

ELEINE thrive on connection. Vocalist Madeleine and guitarist Rikard know the depths of struggle and the heights of triumph firsthand. Their authenticity resonates deeply, both on and off the stage. “We believe in our fans as much as they believe in us,” says Madeleine and Rikard.

Fired up by We Shall Remain, ELEINE cemented their status as heavily touring powerhouse as support for ENSIFERUM and PAIN in late 2023 after even opening for legendary NIGHTWISH in summer 2023. All that leading to their first headliner tour in autumn 2024, ELEINE and their loyal legions have greatly proven that they can sell out the venues of Europe on their own - and that’s why it was out of question that a second leg had to be booked for spring 2025, followed by a critically acclaimed and well-received EP release We Stand United and a fall tour together with Primal Fear celebrating it.

New music will be coming throughout the summer and fall of 2026 - with yet another headline tour throughout Europe, with both old and new material. Stay tuned & get ready to be empowered!

Official website: https://eleine.com
Patreon: https://patreon.com/eleine
Instagram: https://instagram.com/eleineofficial
Facebook: https://facebook.com/eleineofficial
Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@eleineofficial

BLACK SEA OF TREES Release Powerful Video For "Omen", New Album Cult Of The Sun Out Now

Cult of the Sun is the new full length offering from Melbourne-based progressive metal act BLACK SEA OF TREES. The narrative of the album is inspired by the Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh, Akhenaten and his life’s journey. Cult of the Sun follows the days of the protagonist who is promised otherworldly power and dominion over both Earth and Heaven in return for overthrowing the old kingdom. The album arrives accompanied by the powerful, emotive and evocative film for "Omen". 

"Omen" evokes the landscape of an endless desert. Beginning in realms of heavy rock, the track progresses musically into darker territory. BLACK SEA OF TREES' distinctive style comprised of thunderous breakdowns and large melodic choruses are found in "Omen", delivered in a more condensed and palatable form. 

In "Omen", at this point in the narrative journey, the true nature of the sun god is revealed. Remaining low across daylight hours, the sun god transforms into a bringer of death in the form of a black hole casting a dark shroud over the land. The protagonist, and their followers, abandoned by their god, are left uncertain and hopeless in their once steadfast beliefs. 

About BLACK SEA OF TREES:
Based out of Melbourne and Victoria in Australia, the progressive metal ensemble composes their music around the narrative of their releases. BLACK SEA OF TREES formed in 2018. The debut album, The Spiritual Beast, materialized in the spring of 2023. The band's forthcoming sophomore full-length is an exploration of spirituality, folklore and philosophy, with death metal, folk and ambient elements incorporated into the soundscapes. "A Red Dawn" marks the beginning of this next chapter for BLACK SEA OF TREES, introducing this next album's concept: the protagonist is chosen by god to overthrow an old kingdom in a spiritual revolution. It's a narrative that is heavily influenced by the Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh, Akhenaten and his life’s journey.

BLACK SEA OF TREES bring to life their themes and concepts through dark atmospheric tones, strong full voiced melodies, falsetto and deep growls. With songs ranging from intense 8-minute long walls of sound to 3-minute atmospheric/acoustic passages, BLACK SEA OF TREES draw inspiration from the likes of OPETH, KATATONIA, CULT OF LUNA, RUSSIAN CIRCLES, and KARNIVOOL. A wide array of styles is entwined into the outfit's distinctive and compelling sound. 

BLACK SEA OF TREES is:
Samuel Exton - Vocals/Guitar
Jan Schotting - Drums
Francesco Adami - Bass
Chris Schwinghamer - Lead Guitar

TUNGSTEN Announce New Studio Album Ashes, Out October 9 via PERCEPTION, Present New Video Single "Joker"!

Swedish power metal force TUNGSTEN are ready to unleash their fifth studio album Ashes, set for release on October 9 via PERCEPTION - A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music, and celebrate the announcement with their brand-new video single “Joker”. The band has further revealed co-headline tour dates with INDUCTION; find all dates listed below!

About the new single, guitarist Nick Johansson remembers; "In 2015 I randomly stumbled across a clip of Franzl Lang. I was seriously impressed by how insanely good he was at yodeling, so I went through a short Franzl phase. Not long after that I was standing by a lake with a perfect echo and decided to try a little yodel myself. It sounded absolutely terrible, of course but, I immediately understood the technique. Since then I’ve only yodeled for fun now and then. Somehow, after almost 10 years of casual nonsense-yodeling, it has quietly improved on its own."

Lead singer Mike Andersson adds; “'Joker' is a real stompy banger! I’ll never forget the reactions from our friends and partners at Reigning Phoenix Music when we played them the demo over dinner in Stuttgart. The excitement around the table was amazing.  

Stream “Joker”: https://tungsten.rpm.link/jokerPR 

Watch the video below:

Following a strong entry into the metal scene with their 2019 debut We Will Rise and a steady rise through albums like Tundra, and Bliss, the band now return with a powerful new chapter. Between touring and live performances throughout 2025, TUNGSTEN focused on writing material for their upcoming album, aiming to create a worthy follow-up to 2024’s The Grand Inferno.

Ashes sees TUNGSTEN continue their crusade, delivering irresistible metal with anthemic choruses and a fresh surge of energy that pushes their signature sound even further. The album captures everything the band stands for: powerful songwriting, massive hooks, and a dynamic mix of melody and heaviness that makes it one of their strongest and most focused releases to date!

Pre-order the album: https://tungsten.rpm.link/ashesPR

About TUNGSTEN

Originally formed in 2016 by drummer Anders Johansson together with his sons Nick and Karl Johansson, TUNGSTEN soon completed their lineup with vocalist Mike Andersson and quickly established themselves as a force in the European metal scene. With a sound rooted in classic heavy metal but sharpened by a contemporary edge, the band has built a reputation for powerful songwriting, a clear identity and relentless forward momentum, earning growing attention well beyond their Scandinavian home base.

The band has toured extensively alongside acts such as BLOODBOUND, FIREWIND, SONATA ARCTICA, and ALL FOR METAL, and appeared at major festivals including Sweden Rock Festival, Leyendas Del Rock, Midalidare Metal Fest and Riverside Rock Fest, continuously building a strong live reputation. In July 2026, TUNGSTEN is confirmed to perform at Germany’s RockHarz Festival, among many more live appearances in support of their much-awaited new albumAshes. Find all upcoming dates HERE.

TUNGSTEN are:
Mike Andersson – Lead Vocals
Karl Johansson – Bass, Keyboards, Vocals
Nick Johansson – Guitar
Anders Johansson – Drums

Progressive Rock Duo DATURA LODGE Release "Mummy", Announce New Album Datura Lodge

DATURA LODGE began in early 2026 and is the result of a musical partnership between Nicky B and “W". Based out of Bergen County, New Jersey, USA, the progressive rock duo produce their own distinctive take on the genre, revealed through the first single "Mummy," featuring keyboards by Adam Holzman. The band's debut self-titled album, Datura Lodge, is scheduled for release on October 2, 2026, via ARQUEN Records. 

In their upcoming album, DATURA LODGE explores themes of disillusionment and disassociation. From the start, we hear these themes come through in “Mummy.” Lyrically, “Mummy” encapsulates grief and loss of hope for the future in an age when younger generations have been robbed by the greedy and powerful.

The song develops a dreamy atmosphere turned tense, culminating in a display of power heard in an explosive keyboard solo from Adam Holzman. The dynamic segueing of styles and instrumentals across the track showcases the complex layering of DATURA LODGE's compositions. 

Datura Lodge was produced by DATURA LODGE and Ben Karas. Tracks 1-5 were recorded at Frightbox Recording in Passaic, NJ, while tracks 6-9 were recorded at Frost Gauntlet Recording in Lyndhurst, NJ, all with engineer Ben Karas who mixed the album. The release was mastered by Andy VanDette at Evolve Mastering. The cover artwork for Datura Lodge was created by Samantha Feyerabend-Muljat.

Across the album, DATURA LODGE is joined by Adam Holzman on keyboards and Russell Holzman performing drums, with Ben Karas lending violin to "Stone".

About DATURA LODGE:

DATURA LODGE is the latest musical endeavor from Nicky B and “W". Based out of Bergen County, New Jersey, USA, the duo has been performing music together since their early teens. From taking to stages locally in cover bands to releasing a video performing “Starless” by KING CRIMSON with John Wetton that amassed over 350,000 views on YouTube, the duo brings an array of experiences into their new project. 

Musical inspiration is primarily drawn from legendary progressive rock acts including GENESIS, KING CRIMSON, THE MARS VOLTA, and RUSH. DATURA LODGE strives to inject approachability into their sound while delivering hard-hitting hooks. Taking a bold creative direction, the band incorporates unexpected twists and turns across their tracks.
 
DATURA LODGE's debut self-titled full-length album, Datura Lodge, is set to arrive on October 2, 2026, via ARQUEN Records. 

DATURA LODGE Is:

Nicky B - bass, vocals
“W” - guitar, vocals


Connect With DATURA LODGE:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daturalodge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daturalodge
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@daturalodge
Twitter/X: https://x.com/daturalodge
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@daturalodge
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@daturalodge

THE ETERNAL Unveil Haunting Animated Video For New Single “Lament For The Hollow” From New Studio Album Obscured Horizons, Arriving On September 18th Via RPM!

With the previously-released Celestial EP laying a powerful foundation, Australian/Finnish dark progressive gothic metal collective THE ETERNAL return with a striking new chapter: an animated lyric video for their brand new single “Lament For The Hollow.” The track offers a first glimpse into their upcoming studio album Obscured Horizons, set for release on September 18th via Reigning Phoenix Music!

Following the widespread acclaim of their 2024 full-length Skinwalker and the evocative successor Celestial earlier this year, which was praised by fans and media alike for its melancholic atmospheres, doom-laden heaviness and progressive depth, the band now pushes forward with a composition that feels both expansive and deeply personal. First album single “Lament For The Hollow” opens with a grand, sweeping guitar harmony, unfolding into goosebump-inducing melodies and deeply moving vocals.

The accompanying cinematic animated video mirrors the song’s emotional intensity. Set against a stormy, restless high sea, it visually captures the track’s dark yet captivating atmosphere, both destructive and mesmerizing.

Mark Kelson (vocals, guitars) reveals: “Lament for the Hollow really come from a place of confronting that moment when everything you thought was solid - your identity, your direction - starts to fracture. I was exploring the idea of stripping away illusion, of recognising the voices and influences around you that aren’t real or honest, and having the strength to cut them off. Time is the ultimate truth-teller, eventually everything false gets washed away, whether you’re ready for it or not. The recurring imagery of waves and erasure ties into that cleansing force, but it’s not gentle— it’s destructive, almost violent. ‘Lament For The Hollow’ is about facing fear, selfdoubt, and betrayal, and what happens when people allow themselves to be consumed by emptiness or led astray. It’s both a warning and a kind of catharsis. In a way ‘Lament For The Hollow’ is an anthem for the disenchanted, disillusioned and disenfranchised.”

Stream/Download “Lament For The Hollow”: https://theeternal.rpm.link/lamentPR

Watch the video clip below:

With Mark Kelson (vocals/guitars) and Richie Poate (guitars) in Melbourne, joined by Niclas Etelävuori (bass, ex-AMORPHIS/FLAT EARTH) and Jan Rechberger (drums, AMORPHIS) in Helsinki, THE ETERNAL have solidified themselves as a truly international collaboration. Their music resonates with fans of acts such as KATATONIA, SWALLOW THE SUN, and ANATHEMA - dark yet luminous, heavy yet emotionally transcendent!

Further album details and new singles will be unveiled in the weeks ahead. The band's latest EP, Celestial, was released in January through Reigning Phoenix Music and is available digitally and as a limited, eco-friendly recycled vinyl LP edition at: https://theeternal.rpm.link/celestialPR

THE ETERNAL is:
Mark Kelson / Guitar & Vocals
Richie Poate / Guitar
Niclas Etelävuori / Bass
Jan Rechberger / Drums & Percussion

More on THE ETERNAL:
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TheEternal
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/theeternalofficial/
X | https://www.twitter.com/theeternalband
TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@theeternalofficial
YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4vJAnrZbwUesT_FlY03mdw

ANNIHILUS MUNDI Release "A Hedgehog’s Dilemma" With An Animated Music Video

Progressive extreme metal project ANNIHILUS MUNDI have unveiled their next single, "A Hedgehog's Dilemma". Accompanied by an animated music video, the track provides a further insight into the band's forthcoming sophomore album, The Dead Sea Scrolls. 

"A Hedgehog's Dilemma" takes its name from the metaphor coined by German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer and shares the title with an episode of Neon Genesis Evangelion. For Schopenhauer, the inability for hedgehogs to cuddle for warmth without causing each other harm mirrors how individual humans crave intimacy but their own 'spines' (trauma, anxieties etc.,) can cause damage in relationships. The song is centered around the protagonist from Neon Genesis Evangelion, Shinji, and the impacts of his social masking that is used as a defensive mechanism. 

"'A Hedgehog’s Dilemma' is the most deliberately composed song on the album." Composer and lyricist Daniel Saillant shares. "Since Shinji is a cello player who often finds solace in classical music, the song is composed in the (mostly) historically accurate form of a classical sonata and features an orchestra melody reminiscent of romantic era composers like Tchaikovsky in the place of a traditional chorus." Compared with the first single release, "Absolute Terror", "A Hedgehog’s Dilemma takes far more risks with its structure and firmly points the album in a much more progressive and artistic direction."

Musically, ANNIHILUS MUNDI fuse an amalgamation of styles to produce a deeply emotive and dynamic sonic impact in "A Hedgehog's Dilemma". The brutality of ferocious death metal rhythms marries seamlessly with the uplifting melodies incorporated across orchestral arrangements and vocal lines. Segueing between symphonic textures from the orchestral strings to the deafening distortion of guitars and harsh vocals, the intense layers combine to form a highly energizing and compelling track. 

The Dead Sea Scrolls explores the personal lived experiences of composer and lyricist Daniel Saillant. In a fusion of genres and artforms, ANNIHILUS MUNDI presents the central concepts through the lens of Hideaki Anno’s notorious 1995 anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion and its subsequent 1997 film The End of Evangelion. 

"A Hedgehog's Dilemma" was produced, mixed and mastered, and engineered by Daniel Saillant at Wailing Pines Productions.

About ANNIHILUS MUNDI

Formed in 2018, ANNIHILUS MUNDI is the creation of Daniel Saillant, blending elements of death metal, shoegaze, and progressive rock. His 2019 debut album Grief and subsequent releases have positioned him as a distinctive voice in the underground metal scene. Inspired by bands such as CYNIC, DEAFHEAVEN, and DREAM THEATER, Saillant continues to push musical boundaries, combining harsh and clean vocals, complex guitar arrangements, and introspective lyrics.

Folk Metal Duo FORGOTTEN SHRINE Present "Halo"

The enchanting and charismatic folk metal ensemble FORGOTTEN SHRINE have unveiled their new single "Halo". Comprised of Josh Alexander and Sofia Frasz (EXILED HOPE), the dynamic duo embrace country and pop elements as they explore an emotive narrative of wanting to see the best in someone despite witnessing a darker reality.

Josh Alexander shares: "When Sofia brought me this song in its demo form I was both excited and surprised at the melodic and lyrical structure. It's beautiful simplicity brings a breath of fresh air after a very dark and heavy part of our upcoming album, in a way that almost gives you whiplash. On another note, folk metal bands aren't exactly commonplace in the USA where we're from - and much in the way that European bands like Eluveitie have ballads that call back to their own folk traditions, 'Halo' is a callback to the Appalachian folk tradition here in America."

Sofia Frasz comments: "Last May, I got 'If I Die Young' by The Band Perry stuck in my head at random while out on a walk. When I got back, I played around with different melodies and finally landed on the chorus. I thought it might be fun to try out a style I'd never touched before, and hilarious to put a country/folk/pop song right next to some of the heaviest songs on the album; my approach to songwriting is very playful and goofy even when the subject matter is serious. I'd had the idea for the lyrics and the song title for a while, and they finally found a home in the lighter, softer melodies you hear on this song. Lyrically, 'Halo' is about seeing the worst sides of someone, and hoping that you're wrong about what you see. Even if they show you their true colors over and over again, it can be hard to accept that and see reality."

In "Halo", an array of string and folk instruments provide a bright and textural backdrop to the lead vocal melodies. Both Frasz and Alexander perform clean vocals on this song in a delivery that feels intimate and personal, and aptly conveys the lyrical theme. The genre influences of country, folk and pop are incorporated seamlessly into FORGOTTEN SHRINE's characteristic sound. From the catchy chorus hook to the dynamic instrumental arrangement, the band showcase their more experimental side in this new release. 

FORGOTTEN SHRINE is: 
Josh Alexander (Pennsylvania, USA) - Guitar, Bass, Hurdy Gurdy, Irish Bouzouki, Additional Instruments, Backing Vocals, Composition.
Sofia Frasz (Maryland, USA) - Lead Vocals, Guitar, Lyrics, Composition.

Connect With FORGOTTEN SHRINE : 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555238025771&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forgottenshrineband
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ForgottenShrineBand
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0q7rFp0yxvWoxGWqIt21nI?si=p5jz0YOOROOHFy5jxHAW6A
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/forgotten-shrine/1734698132

BOOZEWA Announce First West Coast Tour This July

Pennsylvania noise and grunge trio BOOZEWA will make their long awaited West Coast debut this July, bringing their loud, heavy, and unmistakably strange sound across California, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, and Utah.

Formed in 2020, BOOZEWA features Jessica Baker on bass and vocals, Rylan Caspar on guitar and vocals, and mRc on drums. The trio draws from a sonic lineage that includes KARP, MELVINS, SONIC YOUTH, and SWANS, delivering a sound that is both punishing and unpredictable. The band includes former members of BACKWOODS PAYBACK and a current member of ALL ELSE FAILED.

Operating fully DIY through their own DeepRest Records imprint, BOOZEWA has released five records, singles, and EPs. Their latest release, a split with NOWHERE, is available now on 12 inch vinyl. The band has also worked in the studio with TAD DOYLE of TAD.

Known for their intense live performances, BOOZEWA has previously toured with THE OBSESSED, SUPLECS, CKY, AMIGO THE DEVIL, and COMA HOLE. This upcoming run marks a major milestone as they finally bring their sound to fans who have been asking for West Coast dates for years.

The band states they are excited to finally get out west and connect with those who have been waiting. Each show will feature hand picked regional acts.

BOOZEWA July West Coast Tour

  • Thursday 16 Alexs Bar, Long Beach CA with DAWN FADES, STYGIAN CROWN

  • Friday 17 Redwood Bar, Los Angeles CA

  • Saturday 18 Scotland Yard, Los Angeles CA

  • Sunday 19 Humble Heart, San Diego CA with DEAD TENSION, NO AVAIL

  • Monday 20 Aces High Saloon, Salt Lake City UT with LUCID, SIMIAN

  • Thursday 23 Lucky Liquor, Tacoma WA with PONYBOY, GRRRIZLY

  • Friday 24 Kenton Club, Portland OR with CUE THE SUN, VACANCY FLOOR, CLAMBAIT

  • Saturday 25 The Dip, Redding CA

  • Sunday 26 MATINEE Kilowatt, San Francisco CA with GRAIN, WONDERLAND REJECTS

  • Sunday 26 NIGHT SHOW Winters, Pacifica CA with CAMGIRL

  • Wednesday 29 Yucca Taproom, Mesa AZ with LOST DUTCHMAN, GET TO THE CHOPPER

  • Thursday 30 Transplants Brewing, Palmdale CA

  • Friday 31 Til Two, San Diego CA with INSOMNIA, DOLL RIOT

  • BOOZEWA is:

    • Jessica Baker – Bass

    • Rylan Caspar – Guitar

    • mRc – Drums and Vocals

    Connect with BOOZEWA:

CURSED AWAKENING Deliver Thrash And Neoclassical Elements In The New Single "Rest In Chains"

Chicago's CURSED AWAKENING have unleashed their latest single offering, "Rest In Chains". Taken from their upcoming concept album Path Of A Soul, which follows a fresh born soul as it navigates its new existence, this track sees the creature distraught at the realization of having damaged its own future. 

In "Rest In Chains", having dissociated from the reality of the hellscape in which it inhabits, the protagonist has seen through its delusions and subsequently fallen into destructive tendencies. The creature has begun its dark descent following a path formed of anger and hate. 

CURSED AWAKENING power into life with unceasing ferocious heavy thrash riffs. This brutal bombardment aptly mirrors the highly intense narrative focus of the track. Unrelenting in its attack, the heavy rhythms storm ahead before giving way to a slower, more emotional section performed on classical guitar by the band's former guitarist Zayd Acevedo. Segueing into a neoclassical solo, the track then delves once again into the untamed anguish of the chorus arrangement. 

About CURSED AWAKENING

Formed in Chicago, Illinois in 2021, CURSED AWAKENING (formerly known as ARRHYTHMIA) delivers a thrashy death metal sound rooted in classic influences such as DEATH, BOLT THROWER, AT THE GATES, SLAYER, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, and SUFFOCATION. Their music combines old school riffing, melodic passages, neoclassical soloing, and introspective lyricism that goes beyond surface level extremity.

After reforming under the CURSED AWAKENING name in early 2026, the band solidified their creative identity and lineup. The current lineup consists of Abraham Verdin on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, Michael Nystrom Bala on lead guitar, Brady Dukart on bass and backing vocals, and Ronnie James Keough on drums.

With 2024 bringing notable live performances in Chicago and beyond, CURSED AWAKENING continues to sharpen their sound and vision. The band's latest release of singles including "Past Newtonium" and "The Rift", alongside the newest "Rest In Chains", are further testament to the band's continuation and escalation, marking a darker and heavier chapter as the band moves toward their upcoming 2026 album.

CURSED AWAKENING is:

Abraham Verdin – Rhythm Guitar, Lead Vocals
Michael Nystrom Bala – Lead Guitar
Brady Dukart – Bass, Backing Vocals
Ronnie James Keough – Drums