RED SANDS Unleash “The Hunt”

Independent melodic metal band RED SANDS announces the release of their new single “The Hunt,”. The track appears on the band’s highly anticipated EP Evocations, set for worldwide release on January 30, 2026.

“The Hunt” serves as an energetic and subconscious tribute to one of RED SANDS’ favorite metal acts, Iced Earth. Written by Eric Novelo (bass), with arrangements and lyrics by Daniel Novelo, the song blends galloping riffs, urgent pacing, and a sharp melodic edge. Although it is the most traditional track on the EP, it stands out as one of the most vibrant due to its direct songwriting and fast, unrelenting momentum.

Lyrically, “The Hunt” immerses listeners in the brutality and fervor of medieval warfare. While its themes resonate with nearly any era of armed conflict, the song draws particular inspiration from the Battle of Hattin in 1187, where Saladin’s forces defeated the Crusaders and reclaimed Jerusalem. Arabesque guitar solos, atmospheric backing vocals, and intricate sound effects depicting clashing swords and firing trebuchets create a vivid, cinematic portrayal of chaos on the battlefield.

Evocations features six tracks that explore themes of mortality, memory, and transformation. From the ominous opening “Mors Vincit Omnia” to the commanding presence of “The Coven,” the aggression of “The Hunt,” and the introspective melancholy of “My Beloved Ghost,” the EP traces a cycle of creation and decay. At its center is “System,” a new song that confronts modern corruption with sharp lyrical intent and complex musicianship. The artwork, created by vocalist and visual artist Jonathan Corral, reflects the record’s themes through surreal imagery featuring a being made from memories and relics carrying a dying bird on a blank musical score, symbolizing both unfinished creation and impermanence.

RED SANDS is:
 

  • Jonathan “Jona” Corral – Vocals

  • Daniel Novelo – Rhythm & Lead Guitar

  • Eric Novelo – Bass

  • Juan Carlos “CJ” León – Piano & Keyboards

  • Ángel Asiain – Drums


Connect with RED SANDS:
 

ATAVISTIA Unveil Lyric Video For "Eternal Oceans (Reforged)"

Symphonic melodic death metal band ATAVISTIA return with their reimagined and re-recorded album The Winter Way (Reforged), unleashed today via Blood Blast Distribution. The Winter Way (Reforged) showcases ATAVISTIA’s ability to merge cinematic orchestrations with ferocious metal intensity to form a catalyst for their epic storytelling. The new album is accompanied with a lyric video for the dramatic and enthralling “Eternal Oceans (Reforged)”.

Engulfed in the lyrical theme of a vast, cosmic sea, “Eternal Oceans (Reforged)” sees the pacing become slower with lower-tuned guitars, but without lessoning the power and resonance of the arrangement. The track demanded extreme changes from its original incarnation; the band focused intently on removing unnecessary details so that the most important parts of the song could make the greatest impact. Although the arrangement remains long, the orchestration and atmosphere were completely overhauled, and a guitar solo was added for a sudden burst of energy. It is as dynamic and thrilling as the untamable nature of the open water. 

Originally released in 2020, The Winter Way marked a defining moment for ATAVISTIA’s ambitious fusion of extreme metal and orchestral soundscapes. However, founder Mattias Sippola felt that its execution and production did not live up to his vision for the album. While working on a brand new record, unforeseen delays arose and during this pause, Sippola decided to completely reconstruct The Winter Way from the ground up. This new version is not a remix or remaster but an entirely new recording, featuring reworked arrangements, modern production, and rewritten orchestral and atmospheric elements. Some of the original drum and bass recordings remain but have been refined for tighter performance. The addition of Spencer Budworth’s powerful growls brings an entirely new energy to the mix, elevating the album to new heights.

The Winter Way (Reforged) was produced, mixed, and mastered by Matthew Richard Sippola at Atavistic Studios with engineering support from Maximilian Sepulveda. The recording lineup includes Mattias Sippola on vocals, guitars, orchestrations, and production, Max Sepulveda on drums, Spencer Budworth on backing vocals, and D’wayne Murray on bass. The album artwork was created by Simo Häsänen.

ATAVISTIA lineup:

Mattias Sippola - Guitar, Vocals, Composition, Production
Max Sepulveda - Drums, Engineering
Elia Baghbaniyan - Guitar
Spencer Budworth - Bass, Vocals
 

About ATAVISTIA:

Formed in 2017 in Vancouver, Canada, ATAVISTIA takes their fans on a spellbinding journey though vast sonic landscapes of snow covered forests, desolate tundras, and permafrost-laden landscapes. Fans of WINTERSUN, ENSIFERUM, DIMMU BORGIR, and XANTHOCHROID will be enthralled by the elements of melodic death metal, black metal, and Scandinavian folk that is intricately woven together throughout their diverse soundscape.

Taking inspiration from the majestic natural landscapes of their homeland, earthly seasons, and ancient Norse culture, ATAVISTIA’s grandiose sound matches these lyrical themes in an impressive symphony of destruction. Their debut EP, One With The Sun (2017) introduced their unique blend of beauty and ferocity, which they followed up with a stormy full-length in 2020 through The Winter Way. The next two releases, the full-length Cosmic Warfare (2023) and the EP Inane Duncam (2024), saw the band spreading their wings and exploring a wider variety of influences. Through it all, ATAVISTIA balances graceful melodies with a brutal rhythmic cacophony, swirling elegance and fury together like a ferocious northern blizzard.

On stage, ATAVISTIA is a force of nature, like waves crashing against a rocky shore. Their music washes over audiences worldwide, leaving them gasping for more long after the last note has faded. They have toured Europe twice alongside notable acts such as SKÁLMÖLD, METSATÖLL, and SEVEN SPIRES, and have opened locally for MOONSPELL, ELEINE, and OCEANS OF SLUMBER. ATAVISTIA has firmly established its presence in a niche among a wide swath of metal genres.

Are you ready to lose yourself in the juxtaposition of lush and arid, the dichotomy of hope and despair, and welcome the inevitable and beautiful end?

AMORPHIS Return To The Fray With New Single "Crowned In Crimson"

Finnish metal icons AMORPHIS present “Crowned In Crimson”, a powerful and emotionally charged new single, which also serves as the main theme song for the upcoming action feature Son of Revenge – The Story of Kalevala, premiering in Finland on January 16, 2026.

A striking father–daughter vocal collaboration between AMORPHIS frontman Tomi Joutsen and his daughter Iida, “Crowned In Crimson” presents the band at their most cinematic. The track’s sweeping dynamics and melodic depth echo the sonic identity of AMORPHIS’ massively successful 2025 studio album Borderland, while introducing a new layer of intimate storytelling that fits seamlessly into the band's unmistakable sound world. The lyrics, penned by long-time collaborator Pekka Kainulainen, bring the tragic hero Kullervo to life with vivid emotion and mythic weight.

For decades, AMORPHIS' music has breathed new life into the ancient stories of the Kalevala for fans around the world and now, with Son of Revenge – The Story of Kalevala, audiences will finally see those mythic visions brought to life on the big screen.

Songwriter and guitarist Esa Holopainen comments:

“Director Antti Jokinen got in touch with us and briefly told us about his ambitious film project. We arranged a meeting with him, during which we were able to see visual material from the film and go through the script. Antti hoped that Amorphis would create the film’s theme song — a project we agreed to immediately.”

Director Antti Jokinen comments:

"Amorphis’ music feels like strength wrapped in beauty – heavy enough to shake the landscape, yet poetic. Their music really lifts my spirit into the world of Kalevala myths and its characters. Exactly what I was looking for, when thinking about the theme song for my film. I'm very pleased they agreed to do it."

With its haunting vocal interplay, soaring melodies, and unmistakable AMORPHIS atmosphere, “Crowned In Crimson” stands as a monumental addition to the band’s catalogue and a compelling preview of the cinematic world of Son of Revenge – The Story of Kalevala.

Watch the video for “Crowned In Crimson” directed by Antti Jokinen below;

“Crowned In Crimson” is out now on all digital platforms, listen to it here: https://amorphis.rpm.link/crownedPR
 

About the movie:

Son of Revenge – The Story of Kalevala is an upcoming Finnish historical fantasy film directed by Antti Jokinen and written by Jokinen and Jorma Tommila. Based on the Finnish epic poetry The Kalevala, the film tells the story of Kullervo, a tragic anti-hero marked by vengeance, sorrow, and supernatural power, with Elias Salonen in the title role. Set in 12th century North Karelia and primarily filmed in Nurmes, the film premieres on January 16, 2026.

See the movie trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfZBjEs_NcI

About AMORPHIS

With Borderland, released in September 2025 as their latest album, the title couldn’t have been chosen more fittingly. Throughout their career, spanning over more than three decades, AMORPHIS have been an ever-evolving act, wandering on an exciting boundary-pushing path. From their sinister death metal debut Karelian Isthmus over genre-defining mid-90s melodic death works like Tales From The Thousand Lakes and Elegy as well as the melodic 2000’s grandeur ofEclipse or Skyforger to records combining the very best of all prior eras to refreshing new soundscapes (f.e. Under The Red Cloud or Queen Of Time): Whatever this group works on promises long-range success. With 2022’s Halo, the Finn’s were rewarded for their researching musical approach once again the sextet took home two awards from the prestigious Emma Gaala (“Band of the Year” & “Export of the Year”). The impact of Halo became a driving force for what’s to come. Rather than rushing into a follow-up, the band chose to step back from live performances and focus fully on their next chapter. The result is Borderland - a meticulously crafted opus that builds on their celebrated recent era, while seamlessly weaving in new, timely elements. It’s a bold, organic continuation of their journey, shaped by experience and guided by vision.
 

AMORPHIS are:
Tomi Joutsen | vocals
Esa Holopainen | guitars
Tomi Koivusaari | guitars
Olli-Pekka “Oppu” Laine | bass
Santeri Kallio | keys
Jan Rechberger | drums & percussion

Out Now from Aunt Cynthia's Cabin!

The San Diego, CA, based psychedelic desert rock trio AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN, are preparing to celebrate their 2020 debut full-length album Misty Woman with a re-release containing a new bonus track. Recorded in the midst of the sun-scorched landscape in Austin, TX, at Electric Deluxe Recorders with Grammy-award winning producer Adrian Quesada, Misty Woman contains the influence of this impressive environment. The album will arrive on cyan and magenta vinyl, as well as on CD, via Black Throne Productions on December 19th, 2025.

"Kennel and the Dog" gently introduces the album with contrasting brighter guitar leads and grounding bass tones, before building into a fuzz-fueled powerhouse. There's a subtle underlying touch of shadow beneath the brightness of the psychedelic rock sound with doom influences. Found within are moments of catchiness, intriguing progressions and full immersion. "Which One Is the Jellyfish?" drifts away from the desert and down into the echoey depths as the prominent bass tones bring to life this watery world. A touch of drama carries through the enticing arrangement in which steadfast rhythms are interrupted with flourishes of keys, guitar licks and other sonic explosions. Seeing the overdrive turned up way past 11, this instrumental offering is characterful in its world building. 

The enticing seductive mood of "Misty Woman" is brought to life with a slow tempo, a more minimalist arrangement placing the focus on Brennan Justice's lead vocals. The playful layering of instrumental components sees the track ebb and flow, gently teasing. Gradually building into a full inviting sound, "Rider in the Desert Sun (Pt I)" sees a multitude of tones and textures manifest throughout it's journey. The presence of additional organ layers reveals a 'feel good' vibe in this instrumental track. Hidden further within, a heavier rock section reveals further stylistic influences in the band's sound. "Rider in the Desert Sun (Pt II)" follows on from it's brighter first half with a dustier, more raucous rock 'n' roll spirit. This guitar driven track brings memorable hooks in the lead vocal melody supported with fuzzy distortion laden chord progressions beneath. 

A sense of drama and adventure is prevalent from the off. "In the Valley"'s steadfast percussion hits contrast the bright tones of the guitar strums and notes that float above. There's an uplifting and comforting feel to this expansive and immersive instrumental offering. "There’s No Saving Cass" returns from the wild expanse of the valley into the Western plains. Subtle bass grounds the track while the lead guitar and lead vocal line entwine, rising and falling together. Reaching it's full arrangement, this charismatic track delves into the heart of the band's psychedelic rock style. "Grains of Sand", an interlude piece, briefly diverts in mood and feel. Acoustic guitar arrangement contribute to the track's melancholy feel that reverberates through a slow tempo and contemplative progressions. 

The intensity of "Black and Blue" hits instantly. The high octant feel and movement of the track's rhythms is instantly alluring. Dynamically, it ebbs and flows between brief moments of reflection and full on vigorous impact. Taken from the Miramar Sessions,the bonus track "Magic Touch" offers a more intimate feel of AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN's sound. 

About AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN:
AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN is comprised of San Diego’s Brennan Justice (guitar, lead vocals), Anthony DeFreitas (bass, vocals) and Jeremy Luvaas (drums, percussion). Beginning as a duo, Justice and DeFreitas' previous time in a surf rock ensemble saw the pair develop their signature western tones with an excessive use of spring reverb, translating now to the ethereal, dusty sound of psychedelic desert-rock. The band’s name is born from a fictional 1970s murder mystery novel dreamt up by the trio on a drunken night, capturing their embrace of “strange and heavy”, aptly fitting of the uncanny elements entwined in their sound. AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN produce an neo-psychedelic sound that carries an eerie quality. The sonic atmosphere envelopes with nostalgia. 

The trio began as a self-recording band with a home-brew analog-meets-digital rig set up. The DIY approach was left behind in 2019 when the outfit ventured from their hometown of San Diego, CA to Austin, TX to record Misty Woman in a studio they felt would best fit the vibe of their new compositions. Working with producer Adrian Quesada (The Black Pumas, 7-time Grammy-nominee) at Electric Deluxe Recorders, the very sun-beaten landscape that surrounds the studio fed into the quality and mood of the recordings. 

Initially released by Nasoni Records in February of 2020, the enthralling textures and captivating character of AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN's Misty Woman returns including the new track "Magic Touch", on vinyl and CD via Black Throne Productions on December 19th, 2025.

AUNT CYNTHIA'S CABIN is:
Brennan Justice (guitar, lead vocals)
Anthony DeFreitas (bass, vocals)
Jeremy Luvaas (drums, percussion)

ESHTADUR Releases Epic Symphonic Melodeath Single, "Fire Above Mountain Below"

Colombian blackened melodic death metal force ESHTADUR has released their latest single, "Fire Above Mountain Below", off of their latest album, Symphonic Crows – Live at the Santiago Londoño’s Theater. Grandiose symphonic elements provide a powerful backdrop for ominous riffs and snarling vocals. In signature ESHTADUR fashion, "Fire Above Mountain Below" balances crushing heaviness with a catchy, cinematic earworm of a chorus.

Vocalist and guitarist Jorg August comments, "The shapes that can be explored with a symphonic orchestra reminds me of why I enjoy music so much: the character and the intensity of 40 people giving the music their all. That's very ritualistic and powerful. This new live album is something I wanted to do for so long."

Watch the official video for "Fire Above Mountain Below" below:

Symphonic Crows – Live at the Santiago Londoño’s Theater is out now on the ESHTADUR official Bandcamp page: https://eshtadur.bandcamp.com/album/symphonic-crows-live-album

About ESHTADUR: 

ESHTADUR was founded in the fall of 2005 by Jorg August, releasing the Timo Be Timo demo with a sound in the vein of COVENANT, DIMMU BORGIR, and OLD MAN’S CHILD. Since then, they have released a pair of EPs and four powerful full-length albums. ESHTADUR, meaning "the rebellion of angels," can be most closely likened to bands such as SEPTIC FLESH, BEHEMOTH, FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, CARACH ANGREN, and the like. Like their scene counterparts, the band embodies a deathly melodic atmosphere that reaches into realms of darkness and despair through the decay of humanity. It seeks to rebel, in its darkened way, embracing the abject reality.

Their rich touring history includes performances across Colombia, Peru, Mexico, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia. They have shared the stage and toured with CRADLE OF FILTH, VADER, GRAVEWORM, SEPULTURA, ABORTED, and DECAPITATED, the last three at Rock al Parque 2016. Their 2017 release via Bleeding Music Records, Mother Gray, is an expression of planetary death and putrefaction. The scathing release saw the band touring eight countries in Europe through 2018, and then visiting the United States for the first time for the Gray America Tour, including dates in Mexico. The band’s latest album, From The Abyss, was released via Blood Blast Distribution and physically distributed by Hateworks in Latin America.

In 2022, the band toured in support of BATUSHKA and DIABOLICAL, visiting Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Austria, Slovenia, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and Switzerland. In 2023, ESHTADUR performed at 70000 Tons of Metal, being the only band from Colombia to do so. They then embarked on a North American tour with SUMMONER’S CIRCLE, visiting New York, Kentucky, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nebraska, Colorado, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, South and North Carolina, and Virginia.

After conquering 19 shows in the United States, ESHTADUR was invited as a guest of honor to the largest music festival in Latin America, Rock al Parque, supporting IN FLAMES from Sweden. The Crows from Colombia delivered a magnificent concert with Pereira’s Symphonic Orchestra at the Santiago Londoño Theater at the end of the year. This live concert was released on Pro Tape for collectors by Mutilated Records. 

In 2024, the band united forces with GRAVEWORM for a Latin American tour, visiting Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Colombia. ESHTADUR also performed at the 17th edition of Grita Fest in Manizales, Colombia, supporting HATE and EXODUS. Now the crows are gathering mist forces once again, ready to fill your soul with darkened despair at their next visit.

BLAZONER Announces First Single "I'm In Love With My Car" From Upcoming Covers EP Sonic Chambers

Fredericksburg, Virginia heavy rock trio BLAZONER has released "I'm In Love With My Car," the first single from their upcoming covers EP Sonic Chambers, due out February 13, 2026. The track offers an electrified and harmony rich reinterpretation of the classic QUEEN deep cut.

The band approached the recording with a mix of respect, intensity, and playfulness. Drummer Andy Murray takes the lead vocal, a nod to Roger Taylor’s original performance, while Brian Carnes and Stephen Sullivan join him to build thick, layered choruses that showcase the trio’s signature multi vocal sound. The band recorded an extensive number of vocal tracks to capture the fullness and dramatic lift that makes the original song such a standout. Longtime friend and producer Jeff Covert helped guide the arrangement and brought extra clarity and dimension to the performance.

"I'm In Love With My Car" marks the first look at Sonic Chambers, a collection born from a spontaneous decision to record a few favorite covers in the studio. What began as a simple session quickly evolved into a five track EP that celebrates the music that shaped BLAZONER’s sound and spirit. The single highlights their ability to blend heavy rock power with melodic precision while staying true to the emotional core of the source material.

Listen Below;

About BLAZONER:

BLAZONER is a heavy rock power trio from Fredericksburg, Virginia, built on the belief that loud music should feel both massive and melodic. The band leans into thick, saturated riffs, driving rhythms, and vocal harmonies that hit as hard as the instruments behind them. Their sound blends the grit of stoner rock, the pulse of classic heavy rock, and the swirling textures of psychedelia, creating a style that feels raw, hook driven, and unmistakably their own.

Formed by Andy Murray, Brian Carnes, and Stephen Sullivan, BLAZONER is powered by the natural chemistry the three share when they play together. Every member sings, which gives the band a vocal identity rarely found in heavy music. Whether delivering gritty leads or layered harmonies, the voices of all three members work together to add color and emotion to the band’s thick wall of sound. The result is a blend of heaviness and melody that stands out both live and on record.

BLAZONER came out of the gate with a commitment to playing hard, writing often, and letting instinct lead the way. Since releasing their first music in 2023, the band has grown quickly through high energy performances that showcase their volume, intensity, and connection as performers. Crowds respond not only to the weight of the riffs and the immediacy of the songs, but also to the sense that the band is having as much fun onstage as anyone in the room.

Their music reflects a wide range of influences, yet everything is filtered through the same core approach. Play loud, play with purpose, and make songs that feel alive. Whether crafting originals or reimagining the tracks that shaped them, BLAZONER focuses on movement, emotion, and the thrill of a great groove hitting at full power.

BLAZONER continues to evolve as they write, record, and perform, always pushing toward a heavier, tighter, more expressive version of their sound. For the band, heavy music is more than a style. It is energy, teamwork, and a constant exploration of what three people can create when they trust every instinct and hold nothing back.

COLD SLITHER Set the Season on Fire with New Single “Cobra Claws Are Coming To Town”

Reigning Phoenix Music, in collaboration with Hasbro, is proud to announce the most chaotic Christmas anthem ever to slither down a chimney: COLD SLITHER’s new single “Cobra Claws Are Coming To Town.” Fresh from the momentum of their self-titled album, released earlier this year, the Dreadnok-driven metal outfit returns with a holiday track packed with sleigh bells, sabotage, and seasonal pandemonium. The track is accompanied by a high-octane holiday video produced by none other than Torch himself (whose alter ego is known as Ross Sewage). 

As the band explains in their own words:

"Well... Along with the persistent pestering by Torch and Ripper, Cobra Commander now has a new scheme to ensnare the masses with a... Ugh... Christmas song.

“Cobra Claws Are Coming To Town” arrives as both a gift and a warning. This is holiday spirit the COLD SLITHER way: loud, unhinged, and ready to storm every playlist from now until the new year. Lock your chimneys. The Cobra Claws ride tonight.

Watch Below:

Listen HERE: https://coldslither.rpm.link/clawsPR

Fronted by the enigmatic Zartan alongside his ruthless Dreadnok bandmates Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer, COLD SLITHER is a declaration of war. Their sound combines old-school heavy metal with anarchic energy, venomous vocals, punishing riffs, and an atmosphere steeped in apocalyptic chaos. Also, a special thank you to Frank Todaro who serves as the enigmatic voice of Cobra Commander. 

Connect with COLD SLITHER:
Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X | RPM


Featuring 10 original tracks and a remastered version of their cult-classic single “Cold Slither,” the album plunges into dystopian metal with themes of swamp-born menace and Cobra-fueled power. TheCold Slither album is available across digital and vinyl formats.

Order HERE:
https://coldslither.rpm.link/albumPR

Chronicler of Ardul Announces New Single “To Arms!” From the Forthcoming Album Sounds of Ardul

CHRONICLER OF ARDUL presents “To Arms!,” a powerful new single that plunges listeners into the intensity of open conflict within the dark fantasy world of Ardul. Arriving ahead of the upcoming album Sounds of Ardul, due out April 10, 2026, the track highlights the project’s most dynamic orchestral writing yet, capturing the decisive moment when tension gives way to full-scale battle.

“To Arms!” surges with commanding brass, urgent strings, and relentless percussion, creating a vivid and cinematic sense of motion. Composer David Williams channels the spirit of classic video game battle themes while shaping a narrative turning point within the album’s broader emotional landscape. The piece expands on motifs that appear earlier in the record, transforming subtle melodic hints into a triumphant and volatile climax.

Serving as a counterpart to the more intimate “To Arms! (String Quintet),” the new single presents the full battle in its largest, boldest form. Where the quintet version evokes a duel or contained skirmish, “To Arms!” unleashes the full orchestra to paint a much grander conflict.

With Sounds of Ardul, CHRONICLER OF ARDUL deepens its commitment to immersive worldbuilding, weaving thematic motifs and emotional storytelling into every composition. “To Arms!” stands as one of the album’s defining moments, a track that invites listeners to feel the rush, fear, and determination of a hero forced to act.

About CHRONICLER OF ARDUL:
CHRONICLER OF ARDUL was started as a passion project by David Williams when he wanted to combine his love of metal music and dark fantasy to tell a story that spanned over songs and albums. After graduating from Berklee College of Music, he puts his skills to the test to create the music for a story he had been working on for 9 years. The debut EP called Myrewood released late 2023, with its written short story partner, Myrewood Part 1, published in May 2024. The following EP, Sword Of Virné arrived in the summer of 2024. Musically, CHRONICLER OF ARDUL draws from the likes of SHADOW OF INTENT and MENTAL CRUELTY in the metal world, while also taking inspiration from Japanese composer Nobuo Uematsu. 

CHRONICLER OF ARDUL IS:
David Williams – Music and Lyrics

Links:
Website: https://chroniclerofardul.com/
Bandcamp: https://chroniclerofardul.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicler_of_ardul/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chronicler_of_ardul

HUMANNESS TEST announces the release of their newest single, "Prima Facie"

Progressive heavy outfit HUMANNESS TEST announces the release of their newest single, "Prima Facie," the seventh track to emerge from the ongoing Humanness Test project.

The phrase prima facie translates to “at first sight” or “based on first impressions,” a fitting lens through which the band invites listeners to experience the track. What will people think when they first hear it? For HUMANNESS TEST, the answer lies in a piece that stands firmly on its own, one that honors the foundation already built while opening the door to the project’s evolving future.

An instrumental composition written by Maurice Taylor and Chris Lucci, "Prima Facie" began with a bass riff that sparked deeper exploration. The dynamic interplay between bass and drums drove the track’s growth, expanding organically through layers of guitars and keyboards. The single features standout performances from international collaborators Francesco Finori (Italy) on keyboards and Pedro Ricardo (Portugal) on lead and rhythm guitars. Ultimately, the track reflects the creative partnership Taylor and Lucci have nurtured over three decades.

As Chris explains: “There’s definitely a synergy within progressive music, and this track is the result—something that truly sounds like us. You can hear the influence of other bands, but ultimately it’s a reflection of how we write.”

"Prima Facie" showcases the band’s distinctive blend of progressive sensibilities, heavy grooves, and collaborative musicianship, serving as a clear next step in the unfolding narrative of Humanness Test.

About HUMANNESS TEST
Having recently emerged into the heavy music scene in 2024, HUMANNESS TEST produces a dynamic sound that traverses progressive rock and metal realms while also drawing from more traditional heavy subgenres. RUSH, PORCUPINE TREE, and DREAM THEATER are but a few sources of influence and inspiration across the HUMANNESS TEST's musical direction. Appealing to audiophiles and musicians alike, HUMANNESS TEST celebrates the individual creativity and irreplaceable 'human' element of music created by those with a love for their craft. This feeds into the band's inclusion of a diverse array of musicians from around the globe throughout their releases. Beginning in 2024, and continuing over the course of 2025, HUMANNESS TEST are releasing a series of compelling and captivating singles. 

HUMANNESS TEST is:
Chris Lucci (Drums)
Maurice Taylor (Bass, Guitars) 

CREDITS
Music by Maurice Taylor and Chris Lucci
Produced by Chris Lucci and Maurice Taylor
Mixed and Mastered by Chris Lucci
Maurice Taylor (Bass, Guitars)
Chris Lucci (Drums, Guitars)
Guest Musicians: Francesco Finori (Keyboards)
Pedro Ricardo (Lead and Rhythm Guitars)

Links:
Website: https://www.humannesstest.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/humannesstest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humannesstest/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@humannesstest
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumannessTest

CLOCKTOWERS Present Emotive and Atmospheric Single "Genesis"

Thundering heaviness and atmospheric melodic elements intertwine seamlessly across CLOCKTOWERS' new single, "Genesis". The song is a deeply emotive reflection on fatherhood, and the delicate balance of wanting to provide protection from the chaos of our modern world. The single showcases the heart of the forthcoming full length, Genesis, set to arrive in early 2026. 

Rising modern rock outfit CLOCKTOWERS fuse together the ferocious power of metal and grit of rock into a dynamic modern sound. Conveying emotion through carefully crafted melodies, technical details add further dimension to the band's musical arrangements.

CLOCKTOWERS' "Genesis" sees classical-style riffs emerge through a haunting atmosphere before the darker intensity of the track takes form. This new offering contains catchy moments and memorable hooks that see it draw the listener further into CLOCKTOWERS' compelling narratives. 

About CLOCKTOWERS:

CLOCKTOWERS is a genre-blending rock/metal duo that proves lightning can strike twice—first in the past, then in the most unexpected moment years later. The band was officially born in 2022, but the story begins long before that.

Vocalist Tarek Puska and multi-instrumentalist Dakota Logan first crossed paths in an earlier metal outfit that spent five years grinding through shows, songwriting sessions, and the chaotic rhythm of band life. Life eventually pulled them in different directions—but fate clearly had other plans. Years later, in the unassuming town of Reily, Ohio, the two reconnected by chance at a local pizza joint. A quick conversation turned into a jam session. One riff became a song—“Spirit Junkie”—and by the end of that session, CLOCKTOWERS had begun.

What followed was a creative eruption. Tarek and Dakota fell into a regular routine, meeting 2 to 3 days per week to write, explore sounds, and record from the ground up in a DIY home studio setting. Over the next two years, this process grew into their debut full-length album, Genesis—a record that pulses with heavy riffs, soaring melodies, and the kind of authenticity that only comes from lived experience and musical trust.

At its core, CLOCKTOWERS thrives on contrast and chemistry. Tarek, born in 1969, brings a lifetime of hard-earned perspective and vocal power rooted in classic metal and rock traditions. Dakota, born in 1995, injects fresh energy, fearless experimentation, and a modern edge that pushes the sound into uncharted territory. Their 25-year age gap isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower. It allows the band to seamlessly blend old-school grit with new-school fire, delivering music that’s nostalgic without being dated, current without being trendy.

CLOCKTOWERS draws inspiration from a wide palette of heavy music: the swagger and electricity of AC/DC, the doom-soaked weight of BLACK SABBATH, the eerie theatricality of GHOST, the brooding darkness of TYPE O NEGATIVE, the bombast of KISS, and the razor-sharp muscle of METALLICA. Yet, these aren’t just influences—they’re launch pads. CLOCKTOWERS takes what’s familiar and twists it into something personal and raw, layering in textures, emotions, and hooks that make their sound unmistakable.

The band’s songwriting is deeply intentional. Some tracks stem directly from personal experience—loss, growth, heartbreak, and perseverance—while others flow from instinct and emotion, letting the pen follow the pulse of the heart. The result is music that hits hard not just sonically, but emotionally. Big choruses, pounding grooves, and intricate guitar work are matched with lyrics that are introspective, honest, and often cathartic.

One of their standout tracks, “Ashes,” caught the attention of Jason Viebrooks, known for his work with HEATHEN, GRIP INC., and now EXHORDER. Viebrooks lent his talents on bass and guitar alongside Dakota for the single, while Todd J. Farler, a seasoned drummer from Cincinnati, added a thunderous groove that elevated the track even further. It’s the only track on the record that features guest musicians—every other note, riff, and lyric on Genesis comes straight from the two founding members. That was a deliberate decision. CLOCKTOWERS is about preserving a raw, undiluted vision. No filler. No compromises.

With Genesis, CLOCKTOWERS has positioned itself not just as a band, but as a statement—a declaration that real, passionate, no-bullshit rock and metal is alive, evolving, and still capable of hitting you straight in the soul. Whether you’re a lifer raised on vinyl and leather jackets, or a newcomer looking for authenticity in a crowded digital landscape, CLOCKTOWERS offers something that resonates.

This is music forged in connection. Fueled by memory. Driven by instinct. And played with the kind of conviction that can only come from two people who live and breathe it.

CLOCKTOWERS is:

  • Tarek Puska – Vocals

  • Dakota Logan – All instruments (guitars, bass, additional production)

A.A. WILLIAMS Releases New Single “Just A Shadow” and Announces Signing to Reigning Phoenix Music

Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM) proudly announces the signing of acclaimed singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist A.A. WILLIAMS, whose work blends haunting melody with a distinctly heavy edge. This marks a powerful new chapter in the artist’s evolution. To inaugurate the partnership, WILLIAMS unveils her new single “Just A Shadow”, a work of stark intimacy and emotional gravity. The new single appears alongside a striking animated video by Costin Chioreanu, which can be viewed Below.

“Just A Shadow” descends into the quiet ache between light and dark, where WILLIAMS’ evocative voice becomes both a confession and a companion. It is an elegy for the self you cannot escape, a meditation on the beauty and terror of one’s own reflection. Rather than banishing the darkness, WILLIAMS meets it with open eyes in an act of understanding, an embrace of what shapes us, scars us, and ultimately helps define us.

In WILLIAMS’ own words: “‘Just A Shadow’ is an ode to the darkness inside. A part of you since you can remember, a cruel friend lurking just outside of view. A presence that you’ve accepted, its familiarity brings cold comfort. You’ve tried to resist it and step into the light, but you’re scared that you’re nothing without the dark.”

RPM co-founder Gerardo Martinez celebrates both the new release and the label’s partnership with WILLIAMS: “A.A. WILLIAMS is one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music. She is unafraid to explore vulnerability with a rare poetic depth. We’re honored to welcome her to the RPM family, and ‘Just A Shadow’ is a stunning introduction to what we’ll build together.”

“Just a Shadow” lands before her highly anticipated 2026 UK and EU tour. The tour kicks off on January 27 in Norwich and continues across the UK and Europe through March 7. Tickets are available HERE. 

About A.A. WILLIAMS:

Having made her debut live appearance at the prestigious Roadburn Festival in the Netherlands off the back of a self-titled EP, A.A. WILLIAMS has since toured across the globe with the likes of CULT OF LUNA, EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY, RUSSIAN CIRCLES, SLEEP TOKEN and THE SISTERS OF MERCY, as well as establishing herself as a headline artist - including a show at the iconic Queen Elizabeth Hall inside London’s Southbank Centre.

Standout festival appearances have dovetailed with two album releases - 2020’s Forever Blue and 2022’s As The Moon Rests, which both received widespread critical acclaim and put A.A. WILLIAMS firmly in the slipstream of the wave of female vocalists taking textured, epic and folk-rooted heavy music into new and progressive directions. A BBC session at the legendary Maida Vale Studios only bolstered WILLIAMS’ credentials.

Not one to rest on her laurels, she has also released a selection of ‘companion pieces’ - a collaborative single with Japanese post-rock titans MONO (“Exit In Darkness”); a solo covers collection recorded during 2020’s pandemic lockdown — Songs From Isolation — that garnered praise from THE CURE’s Robert Smith and SMASHING PUMPKINS' Billy Corgan for her unique take on their original songs; and perhaps most impressively, 2021’s arco saw the multi-instrumentalist completely rework her debut EP from rock instrumentation to a string ensemble, utilising her classical training and arrangement skills to stunning effect.

With new label partner Reigning Phoenix Music, 2026 will serve as a major milestone for A.A. WILLIAMS.

Connect With A.A. WILLIAMS:

  • Website: https://aawilliamsmusic.com

  • Instagram: https://instagram.com/aawilliamsmusic

  • Facebook: https://facebook.com/aawilliamsmusic

  • Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/aawilliamsmusic

  • YouTube: https://youtube.com/@aawilliamsmusic

  • Bandcamp: https://aawilliams.bandcamp.com

  • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2U3NplWGZV4xH2ECA5oQ1i

  • Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/artist/a-a-williams/1466249029

CARRION VAEL Premieres New Single “1912,” Inspired by the Villisca Axe Murders

Richmond, Indiana’s technical melodic death metal powerhouse CARRION VAEL returns with a vengeance with the release of their haunting new single “1912,” a fresh glimpse into their fifth studio album, Slay Utterly, arriving January 16, 2026 through Unique Leader Records.

Recorded across three sessions at The Armory Studios with engineers Jack Daniels and Elisha Mullins and mastered by Jeff Dunne, Slay Utterly is a concept-driven exploration of infamous murderers, slashers, and violent historical figures. Each track delivers a vivid depiction of humanity’s darkest corners through CARRION VAEL’s blend of technical precision, melodic intensity, and razor-edged aggression.

“1912” stands among the band’s most stylistically expansive works to date. Nearly theatrical in its opening moments, the song broadens and intensifies as it progresses, guiding the listener through shifting moods and escalating tension. The band notes that this track is “the most vast when it comes to styles” and was crafted to make the listener feel every stage of its growth.

Lyrically, “1912” centers on the still-unsolved Villisca axe murders, which shook the small town of Villisca, Iowa on a sweltering June night in 1912. Two adults and six children were brutally killed as they slept. The assailant moved silently through the home, leaving no survivors and vanishing without a trace. More than a century later, the case remains open to speculation, and the song explores several of the most discussed theories, from roving train-hopping sociopaths to disgruntled business associates to evangelical madmen. The truth remains unknown.

With “1912,” CARRION VAEL transforms one of America’s most chilling mysteries into a dynamic and emotionally charged melodic death metal narrative, setting the tone for the scope and ambition of Slay Utterly.

About CARRION VALE:
In 2017, brutal melodic death metal storytellers CARRION VAEL set out on a mission to understand disturbing events that may baffle the sane. Each album and each song explores an aspect of true crime history, often focusing on the stories of individual serial killers and their victims. Though this conceptual focus underpins CARRION VAEL's songwriting, they seek to fully utilize all of their skills and talents to ensure that each song develops the sound it needs to tell its story. The band released their first album, Resurrection of the Doomed, independently in 2017, then signed with HPGD Records and released their 2020 follow-up, God Killer. Subsequently, the band signed with Unique Leader Records and released Abhorrent Obsessions (2022) and Cannibals Anonymous (2024). 

With their fifth album, Slay Utterly, on the horizon, CARRION VAEL are set to continue this journey into the monstrous side of the human psyche. Vicious, but surprisingly poignant in just the right dose, Slay Utterly presents an anthology of serial killer stories from significant points in history. The album is certain to enthrall fans of horror, history, and true crime with its vivid portrayals of the minds of both murderers and victims. 

CARRION VALE is:
Travis Lawson Purcell - Vocals
Alex Arford - Bass
Trenton Limburg - Guitar
Ryan Kurder - Guitar
Matt Behner - Drums

RED SANDS Unleash “The Hunt”

Independent melodic metal band RED SANDS announces the release of their new single “The Hunt,”. The track appears on the band’s highly anticipated EP Evocations, set for worldwide release on January 30, 2026.

“The Hunt” serves as an energetic and subconscious tribute to one of RED SANDS’ favorite metal acts, Iced Earth. Written by Eric Novelo (bass), with arrangements and lyrics by Daniel Novelo, the song blends galloping riffs, urgent pacing, and a sharp melodic edge. Although it is the most traditional track on the EP, it stands out as one of the most vibrant due to its direct songwriting and fast, unrelenting momentum.

Lyrically, “The Hunt” immerses listeners in the brutality and fervor of medieval warfare. While its themes resonate with nearly any era of armed conflict, the song draws particular inspiration from the Battle of Hattin in 1187, where Saladin’s forces defeated the Crusaders and reclaimed Jerusalem. Arabesque guitar solos, atmospheric backing vocals, and intricate sound effects depicting clashing swords and firing trebuchets create a vivid, cinematic portrayal of chaos on the battlefield.

Evocations features six tracks that explore themes of mortality, memory, and transformation. From the ominous opening “Mors Vincit Omnia” to the commanding presence of “The Coven,” the aggression of “The Hunt,” and the introspective melancholy of “My Beloved Ghost,” the EP traces a cycle of creation and decay. At its center is “System,” a new song that confronts modern corruption with sharp lyrical intent and complex musicianship. The artwork, created by vocalist and visual artist Jonathan Corral, reflects the record’s themes through surreal imagery featuring a being made from memories and relics carrying a dying bird on a blank musical score, symbolizing both unfinished creation and impermanence.

RED SANDS is:
 

  • Jonathan “Jona” Corral – Vocals

  • Daniel Novelo – Rhythm & Lead Guitar

  • Eric Novelo – Bass

  • Juan Carlos “CJ” León – Piano & Keyboards

  • Ángel Asiain – Drums


Connect with RED SANDS:
 

ATOLL Announces 2026 "Swamp Survivors" Tour

Arizona’s own slamming death metal juggernaut ATOLL are proud to announce the “Swamp Survivors” 2026 Tour, a week-long run of brutal, high-octane shows tearing across the American South beginning January 30, 2026. Supported by a cast of equally savage acts, TRUCKSTOP DICKPILL and SQUELCHING, “Swamp Survivors” promises a visceral, sweat-drenched live experience steeped in ATOLL’s signature blend of groove, slam, and technical ferocity.

Emerging from the scorched desert wasteland of Phoenix in 2014, ATOLL has spent nearly a decade carving out a unique sonic identity. Their sound fuses percussive, groove-laden slamming brutal death metal with classic death metal riffcraft, while injecting flashes of core, funk, and thrash for maximum unpredictability. Known for their punishing live shows and festival appearances, ATOLL has shared the stage with heavyweights such as SKINLESS, GORGASM, INGESTED, and ABORTED, solidifying their status as a staple of the modern extreme metal circuit.

"Swamp Survivors" 2026 Tour Dates:

01/30 New Orleans, LA Check Point Charlie
01/31 Pensacola, FL Betty's
02/01 Tampa, FL The Brass Mug
02/03 Lake Worth, FL Propaganda
02/04 Winter Park, FL Conduit
02/05 Warner Robins, GA Reverb Room
02/06 Atlanta, GA Bodgs Social & Supply
02/07 Nashville, TN Cobra Bar

About ATOLL:

Formed in 2014 in Phoenix, Arizona, ATOLL has evolved into a relentless force in extreme metal, blending brutal death metal with influences from groove, slam, grind and hardcore. Over the past decade, they’ve built a reputation for their blistering live performances and innovative approach to the genre, sharing stages with giants like Skinless, Gorgasm, and Aborted.

 Their discography, including standout releases like Prepuce and Human Extract, showcases their fearless experimentation, and with their latest album Inhuman Implants, ATOLL has reached new heights, further solidifying their place as pioneers within the extreme metal scene. Now augmented by new drummer Max Stark, the band is set to push the boundaries of aggression with ferocious riffs and slams, continuing to inspire and captivate listeners worldwide.

ATOLL is:

  • Wade Taylor – Vocals 

  • Cameron Broomfield – Bass 

  • Spencer Ferguson – Guitar 

  • Matt Markle – Guitar 

  • Max Stark – Drums 


Connect with ATOLL:

SEBASTIAN BACH Announces Spring 2026 North American Tour, Stitched Up Heart to Support

On the heels of a wildly successful Australian tour with sold-out shows in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide, SEBASTIAN BACH announces his 2026 North American headlining tour, The Party Never Ends, kicking off February 26 in Highland, California at Yaamava’ Casino. 

The tour will bring Bach’s unmistakable voice as he delivers the iconic hits from his days in SKID ROW, alongside fan favorites from his expansive solo catalog, including material from his latest album, Child Within the Man, hailed by Metal Hammer as “an unapologetic celebration of what Sebastian Bach does best,” with Associated Press saying “…it shows a fierce performer in prime fighting form…his vocals remain sharp and his songwriting talents as cunning as ever,”  In addition, “(Hold On) To the Dream” track was included in Consequence's 30 Best Metal & Hard Rock Songs of 2024 which described the song as "...a career masterpiece from the former Skid Row singer. Baz hits some of the highest notes of his career on the sweeping ballad, an inspiring anthem about perseverance."

Joining the tour as direct support are modern rock standouts STITCHED UP HEART. handpicked by Sebastian Bach for his 2020 tour celebrating the debut SKID ROW album. That tour was ultimately cancelled due to COVID, making this long-awaited pairing finally come full circle.

Artist Presale tickets go on sale today, December 10. Fans get early access with the code BACH26 starting at 11 AM EST.
Local Presales begin December 11 at 10 AM local time, followed by the General Onsale on December 12 at 10 AM local time.

VIP Meet & Greet Packages will be available. For full details and ticket links, visit www.sebastianbach.com.

Additionally, Sebastian Bach has also dropped a new “Car Wash Hot Wax” edit of the single “What Do I Got to Lose?”, delivering a hotter, extended bikini car wash performance by none other than his wife, Suzanne. “What Do I Got to Lose?” made an immediate splash at radio, debuting as the #1 Most Added track upon release, bridging Sebastian Bach’s iconic legacy with his modern solo relevance.

Watch Below:

SEBASTIAN BACH NORTH AMERICAN HEADLINING DATES

Feb 26 – Highland, CA – Yaamava Casino*
Feb 27 – Fresno, CA – Tower Theatre
Feb 28 – Oroville, CA – Feather Falls Casino*
Mar 02 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theatre
Mar 04 – Victoria, BC – Capital Ballroom
Mar 06 – Boise, ID – Treefort Music Hall
Mar 07 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot
Mar 09 – Billings, MT – The Pub Station Ballroom
Mar 10 – Minot, ND – The Original
Mar 13 – Des Plaines, IL – Des Plaines Theatre
Mar 14 – Florence, IN – Belterra Resort Casino*
Mar 15 – Wyandotte, MI – District 142
Mar 18 – Marion, IL – Marion Culture Civic Center
Mar 20 – Millvale, PA – Mr. Smalls
Mar 21 – Jim Thorpe, PA – Penn's Peak*
Mar 22 – Hampton Beach, NH – Wally's
Mar 24 – Albany, NY – Empire Live
Mar 25 – Harrisburg, PA – Capitol City Music Hall
Mar 27 – Leesburg, VA – Tally Ho Theater
 Mar 28 – Greenville, SC – Radio Room
Mar 29 – Charleston, SC – Music Farm
Mar 31 – Jacksonville, FL – Five
Apr 02 – Sebastian, FL – Capt Hirams Hall
Apr 03 – St. Petersburg, FL – Ferg's Entertainment Center*
Apr 04 – Destin, FL – Club LA
Apr 06 – Nashville, TN – Cannery Hall
Apr 10 – West Wendover, NV – Peppermill Casino*

*no STITCHED UP HEART

ADDITIONAL ONE-OFF DATES
2025
Dec 12 – West Siloam Springs, OK – Cherokee Hotel & Casino*
Dec 13 – Roland, OK – Cherokee Casino and Hotel
Dec 27 – Airway Heights, WA – Pend Oreille Pavilion at Northern Quest Resort & Casino

2026
Jan 7 – Snoqualmie, WA – Snoqualmie Casino
Jan 17 – Lincoln City, OR – Chinook Winds Casino Resort
Jan 24 – Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena w/ Tesla
Feb 21 – Newton, NC – Newton Performing Arts Center
Feb 26 – Highland, CA – Yaamava’ Theater*
Mar 14 – Florence, IN – Belterra Casino Resort
Mar 21 – Jim Thorpe, PA – Penn’s Peak
May 31- Lake Charles, LA - L’Auberge Casino
Aug 21 – Gatlinburg, TN – The Mountain Festival 2026
Oct 3 – Saint Charles, MO – The Family Arena w/ Great White and Quiet Riot

EMBERS OF DAWN Announce New Single “Shadow of Her Veil” From Their Forthcoming Album Due Later in 2026

EMBERS OF DAWN unveil their newest single “Shadow of Her Veil” a track that walks the line between heavy gothic rock and doom metal with a sound that feels both timeless and unrelenting. Early listeners have compared it to a modern day SISTERS OF MERCY tune, capturing a haunting blend of gothic atmosphere and doom driven weight. Echoes of TYPE O NEGATIVE and PARADISE LOST also pulse through the track, creating a dark immersive soundscape that lingers long after the final note.

“Shadow of Her Veil” explores themes of sorrow, reflection, and heavy beauty. Lyrically, the song delves into the feeling of being haunted by the past by memories by expectations and by the versions of people we hold onto even when they are no longer present. It is a meditation on loss and identity, portraying the struggle of living with memory and expectation, and the sense of being followed by someone’s lingering presence while trying to understand oneself in the aftermath.

With its brooding atmosphere and powerful emotional weight “Shadow of Her Veil” stands as one of EMBERS OF DAWN’s most evocative works to date and offers a compelling preview of what awaits on their forthcoming album arriving in 2026.

About EMBERS OF DAWN:

Formed in 2022, EMBERS OF DAWN is a genre-defying metal project born out of Jacksonville, Florida and Santa Barbara, California. The band blends elements of industrial, gothic, melodic death metal, and cyber-metal to create a sound that is both cinematic and punishing. Known for their thematic focus on alienation, modern decay, and emotional detachment, EMBERS OF DAWN delivers music that is as introspective as it is aggressive.

The band’s music features cold, mechanical precision layered with dark melodic textures, drawing influence from acts like PAIN, DARK TRANQUILLITY, MINISTRY, FEAR FACTORY, RAMMSTEIN, STATIC-X, ROB ZOMBIE, ARCH ENEMY, and TYPE O NEGATIVE. With each release, they continue to explore new sonic territory, balancing technicality with atmosphere, brutality with beauty.

Their upcoming debut album Infernal Culture features drums by ADRIAN ERLANDSSON (AT THE GATES, CRADLE OF FILTH, PARADISE LOST, THE HAUNTED), adding an explosive edge to their already dynamic sound.
 

EMBERS OF DAWN is:

  • Cliff Ross – guitars, programming

  • Scott Van Horn – bass, programming

  • Graves- Vocals

SUNSWARM Unleashes Debut Single “Sunswarm”: A Bleak, Crushing Immersion Into Modern Industrial Noise

SUNSWARM, the emerging industrial noise act from Southampton, UK, has announced the release of its self-titled debut single, “Sunswarm.” Newly formed, the band arrives with a fully articulated vision that leans into heaviness not as spectacle, but as an unavoidable truth. Their sound is shaped by the weight and desolation of GODFLESH, the spiritual intensity of AMENRA, the confrontational extremity of THE BODY, and the cosmic dread of ORANSSI PAZUZU. SUNSWARM draw from these influences without imitation, creating an approach that is defined by early 90s industrial sampling techniques, scorched guitar textures, and vocals shaped by black-metal intensity, all fused into rhythms that feel more like movements of pressure than traditional song structures.

The single “Sunswarm” serves as the first expression of this identity. Its lyrics are minimal and ritualistic, functioning less as narrative and more as invocation: “Sunswarm. How to die. Sunswarm. Look into the light.” These words sit within an atmosphere that feels both claustrophobic and vast, the kind of sound designed to confront rather than reassure. The track is built to feel like a moment suspended between collapse and revelation, a tone that reflects the band’s view of the modern world and the emotional weight they aim to channel.

About SUNSWARM:

SUNSWARM is led by vocalist and bassist Rich Lee-Davis and vocalist and guitarist Neil Sutton, joined by additional contributors who extend the band’s sonic and visual reach. Together they construct an immersive environment where sound, light, and texture collide. Their creative world is defined by sensory overload, stark monochrome imagery, disorienting strobe work, and the feeling of being enclosed within an atmosphere that is both vast and hostile. Everything they create is intended to overwhelm, to blur the line between performance and encounter.

From their earliest ideas, SUNSWARM have operated from a place of complete self-definition, shaping a language of heaviness that goes beyond impact or aggression. They approach weight and intensity as emotional terrain, a landscape shaped by pressure, absence, and the darker edges of lived experience. Their debut single, “Sunswarm,” marks the first reveal of this landscape, a glimpse into the bleak and immersive world the band is building.

SUNSWARM is: 

Rich Lee-Davis - vocals, bass
Neil Sutton - vocals, guitar
Additional contributors (live and studio) - to be announced

Connect with SUNSWARM:

Website: https://sunswarm.bandcamp.com/
Bandcamp: https://sunswarm.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunswarmband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunswarmband/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SUNSWARM

KALAMITY KILLS Releases Explosive New Single "Help!" Today, a Hard Rock Reimagining of THE BEATLES Classic

East Nashville hard rock breakout KALAMITY KILLS has released its brand new single "HELP!" today through Pero Recordings. Recorded live in the studio with choice overdubs for impact, the track delivers a fierce reinterpretation of THE BEATLES classic. The band has rebuilt the song with their trademark intensity, emotional depth, and modern heaviness.

Produced and mixed by guitarist Jamey Perrenot, this new version of "HELP!" captures the urgency and vulnerability of the original while pushing it into a darker and more electrified space. Soaring vocals, heavy guitars, tight harmonies, and driving rhythms create a sound that feels both familiar and completely refreshed.

A new performance video also debuts today. The visual showcases the full band performing the track with raw energy and conviction, giving fans a direct look at the chemistry and spirit behind the release.

About KALAMITY KILLS

KALAMITY KILLS is a hard rock band forged in the heart of East Nashville, Tennessee. Formed in 2022 by vocalist Jamie Rowe and guitarist/producer Jamey Perrenot, the band emerged from the ashes of a solo project into a fully realized sonic assault—fueled by raw emotion, modern aggression, and a deep respect for rock’s roots. With a sound that fuses the swagger of classic hard rock with the intensity and polish of modern metal, KALAMITY KILLS strikes a rare balance between power and vulnerability.

Best known for their debut self-titled album Kalamity Kills, the band quickly turned heads thanks to high-profile collaborations with members of KORN, 3 DOORS DOWN, LA GUNS, CONQUER DIVIDE, and UNDEROATH. Their music has earned national airplay on SIRIUSXM’s Octane, landed on the Billboard Active Rock charts, and crossed over into viral success without ever chasing trends.

More than just a studio project, KALAMITY KILLS is a growing force with a full live lineup, including bassist/vocalist Julia Lauren Bullock and drummer Rob Bodley. Their songs—ranging from explosive anthems to brutally honest ballads—tackle themes of faith, failure, hypocrisy, redemption, and the messy beauty of being human.

KALAMITY KILLS is for the outsiders, the misfits, the ones who’ve been burned and are still standing. Loud. Unapologetic. Unforgettable.
KALAMITY KILLS is:

  • Jamie Rowe – Lead Vocals

  • Jamey Perrenot – Guitar / Producer

  • Julia Lauren Bullock – Bass / Vocals (Live)

  • Rob Bodley – Drums (Live)

Connect with KALAMITY KILLS:

  • Website: https://kalamitykills.com

  • Facebook: https://facebook.com/kalamitykills

  • Instagram: https://instagram.com/kalamitykills

  • X (Twitter): https://x.com/kalamitykills

  • Jamie Rowe on X: https://x.com/jamierowe

  • YouTube: https://youtube.com/kalamitykills

  • TikTok: https://tiktok.com/kalamitykills

  • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Q7zrZUeUnTrX0OC2FvTqU?si=qZPINKoURFONBasOc9iB3g

  • Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kalamity-kills/1636401395

LIONS AT THE GATE Ignite a New Era With “Burn The Candle” and Bold Label Debut

Metal powerhouse LIONS AT THE GATE proudly announce the release of their explosive new single, “Burn The Candle,” which arrives alongside a visually striking music video directed by Vicente Cordero. This marks the band’s first official unveiling since signing with Reigning Phoenix Music. The track delivers a sharpened edge, renewed urgency, and a bold declaration of what fans can expect from the band’s next era, set to unfold in 2026.

🎧 Stream “Burn The Candle” now: https://latg.rpm.link/burnthecandlePR

With its searing riffs, thunderous rhythm section, and impassioned vocal performance, “Burn The Candle” stands as a rallying cry for unity amid division, a theme at the heart of the band’s creative vision.

Frontman Cristian Machado shares powerful insight into the song’s meaning:

“Burn The Candle is a song about the divide being driven into our societies. Hatred is being normalized right in front of our eyes. No one is immune to it, we are being fed constant direction to build fortresses around our hearts because it’s a war out there, and so lead your ego into battle. This song yells out to people, divided we are like sheep waiting to be led to a slaughter. So proudly we wave the triple-edged sword driven into the side of humanity: greed, pride, lust. I know eventually we open our eyes, but for how much longer will we burn the candle at both ends.”

Of the signing, Reigning Phoenix Music co-founder Gerardo Martinez states: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Lions at the Gate to the roster. With their deep-rooted legacy, fearless sound and bold vision, they embody exactly the kind of creative force we’re proud to support. Their debut album showed what happens when raw emotion meets uncompromising craftsmanship and we could not be more excited to help amplify what’s coming next."

The partnership with Reigning Phoenix Music marks a milestone moment for LIONS AT THE GATE, who enter this new phase with sharpened purpose and an unrelenting creative fire. “Burn The Candle” serves as the first spark of what is to come as the band builds toward an ambitious release cycle in 2026.

Adding fuel to the momentum, LIONS AT THE GATE are currently on tour with the legendary DEATH ANGEL, bringing their ferocious live energy to stages across the country and giving fans an early taste of their revitalized sound.

With a new label home, a blistering new single, and a vision focused firmly on the future, LIONS AT THE GATE are poised to make 2026 their most defining year yet.

FULL TOUR DATES:
12/7 – Reading, PA – Reverb
12/10 – Dallas, TX – Southside Ballroom
12/11 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Midtown
12/12 – Corpus Christi, TX – House of Rock
12/13 – San Antonio, TX – Vibes
12/15 – Albuquerque, NM – Sunshine Theater
12/16 – Tucson, AZ – 191 Toole
12/17 – Los Angeles, CA – The Belasco

Tickets are available HERE.

About LIONS AT THE GATE:

Nestled in the creative heart of Los Angeles, LIONS AT THE GATE features an ensemble of seasoned musicians, including vocalist Cristian Machado, formerly of ILL NIÑO, alongside guitarists Diego Verduzco and Ahrue Luster, whose past stints with ILL NIÑO and MACHINE HEAD have seasoned their artistry. They are joined by drummer Josh Cuadra. Together, they burst onto the music scene with their electrifying debut single "Not Even Human," which rocketed to #3 on the Apple Metal charts, followed by "Bed of Nails," celebrated for its widespread acclaim on Billboard. Their debut album, The Excuses We Cannot Make, launched in August 2023, marking a bold new chapter and debuting on Billboard's Top 100, Top New Artists, and Heatseekers charts. LIONS AT THE GATE have shared stages with icons like LACUNA COIL and NITA STRAUSS.

As they leave their past projects behind, these artists fully embrace their creative freedom and fresh inspiration. Machado's vocals are at their peak, masterfully blending grace and aggression, while the expert instrumentation of Verduzco, Luster, and Cuadra add dynamic layers and enhance the emotional impact of each note. The band maintains its signature heavy dynamics, anchored by powerful choruses that perfectly complement the robust rhythms of their music.

LIONS AT THE GATE is: 

Cristian Machado — vocals 
Diego Verduzco — rhythm guitar 
Ahrue Luster — lead guitar 
Josh Cuadra — drums / percussion

Connect with LIONS AT THE GATE:

Official Website
Instagram
Youtube
Tiktok
Twitch
Facebook
Twitter
Spotify
Apple Music
Deezer
Amazon Music
Tidal

RAIBARD Unveils New Single “Still Your Name,” a Haunting Meditation on Reincarnation and Lost Memory

Progressive rock group RAIBARD announces the release of their new single “Still Your Name,” an evocative exploration of reincarnation, fragmented memory, and the quiet ache of something lost but not forgotten. The song centers on the experience of feeling a connection to a life once lived, even when the details have faded beyond reach.

“Still Your Name” asks a striking question: What if you cannot remember the specifics, but you remember the feeling? The lyrics speak from the edge of recollection, lingering in the emotional space where a previous life seems close enough to touch, yet impossible to name. Lines such as “I miss your face, are you still there somewhere?” and “Where are you now? I’ve missed me somehow”capture the sense of searching for someone, or even an earlier self, that exists only in memory’s periphery.

Musically, the track blends melancholy with a sense of mystery. Guest keyboardist Jeff Kolter adds atmospheric textures that shimmer through the arrangement, while a dual tracked ESP guitar routed through a twenty year old Soldano amplifier creates a layered harmonic richness. The production allows the song to feel at once intimate and expansive, mirroring the emotional themes at its core.

Arriving on March 6th, RAIBARD’s new album Postscript builds on the band’s progressive foundations with a wide range of stylistic influences. Despite this variety, the album remains cohesive. Each track shares a common musical DNA, rooted in melodically centered writing in which implied harmonies elevate even simple progressions and heighten their emotional impact.

The rhythmic identity of Postscript also reflects RAIBARD’s established sound. Melodies and harmonies routinely anticipate the downbeat, giving drummer Phil MacKay a dynamic canvas for inventive performance. On bass, Greg Dellaria provides a central layer of connective energy. His lines bridge harmonic, rhythmic, and melodic roles with subtle but unmistakable mastery.

Postscript was recorded across three locations. MacKay and Dellaria contributed their parts remotely, sending material to Daniel for editing, mixing, and mastering. Daniel’s own performances were captured in either his living room or an isolation booth, creating a blend of immediacy and precision that underscores the album’s emotional and musical depth.

RAIBARD is:
Daniel Gil – Guitar and vocals
Greg Dellaria – Bass
Phil MacKay – Drums and percussion

Connect with RAIBARD:
Website: https://raibard.com
Bandcamp: https://raibard.bandcamp.com
Store: https://raibard.com/collections/all
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raibard
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raibard
X (Twitter): https://x.com/raibardband
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raibard8886