NYC-London duo THE KING CANUTES pay tribute to PREFAB SPROUT on 'Cars and Girls

October 21, 2025

Brooklyn-London indie duo The King Canutes present 'Cars and Girls', the second taste of their debut album 'Eastern Seaboard, Perfect Summer', forthcoming via the Montclair, New Jersey-based Magic Door Record Label. Prefab Sprout aficionados will surely appreciate the cover homage to the band’s Steve McQueen masterpiece.

The King Canutes is Keir Woods (vocals, electric and acoustic guitars), who brings a sonorous true folk voice of Northern England, while Richard Alwyn Fisher (vocals, backing vocals, electric and acoustic guitars) is the scrappy Replacements-style Midwesterner. The pair met in Brooklyn in the early 2000s in NYC’s cosmopolitan pop / indie rock scene and released their debut EP 'Last Callers and Losers' in 2008.

The duo used to perform this song for ‘The Love Hangover’ [an annual post-Valentine’s Day show]. This version blossoms into a smooth swaggering rock ride out. Woods' vocals evoke the wistfulness of the original version while Fisher's sinewy guitar lines break down the layers, then build back as a drum machine transitions to live drums by Kevin March of Guided by Voices.

The King Canutes

Cars and Girls

'Eastern Seaboard, Perfect Summer' album out Nov. 21 via Magic Door Record Label

21 October 2025

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Brooklyn-London duo The King Canutes pay tribute to Prefab Sprout on 'Cars and Girls'

FOR FANS OF: Belle & Sebastian, Lloyd Cole, The Go-Betweens, Elliott Smith, The Chills, Orange Juice, The New Pornographers, American Music Club
INFLUENCES: Lloyd Cole, Richard Thompson, Lou Reed, David Bowie, Leonard Cohen
FOCUS TRACKS: Seymour Stein, Mixture as Before, Cars and Girls, Man From Hawaii, Perfect Summer, Red Hook Sunset
FCC clean (no profanity)

FOR SHARING
'Cars and Girls' single https://distrokid.com/ hyperfollow/thekingcanutes/ cars-and-girls
Bandcamp https://thekingcanutes.bandcamp.com/track/cars-and-girls
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/5lex8QRtmMDs9njOCwTdMd
'Seymour Stein (for Earle Holmes)' https://youtu.be/y9tz2SAFKFg
Get the single https://distrokid.com/ hyperfollow/thekingcanutes/ seymour-stein-for-earle-holmes
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/track/3g8lOj27RRigNafFfZw2aT
Bandcamp https://thekingcanutes.bandcamp.com/track/seymour-stein-for-earle-holmes
Album pre-order https://thekingcanutes.bandcamp.com/album/eastern-seaboard-perfect-summer
Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-king-canutes/295362605

FOR REVIEW & AIRPLAY
Album preview https://on.soundcloud.com/ bxHMO7lIMeNQyU0iLn
Online press kit https://haulix.promo/94zj
Download via Google Drive https://tinyurl.com/TheKingCanutes-PressKit

Brooklyn-London indie duo The King Canutes present 'Cars and Girls', the second taste of their debut album 'Eastern Seaboard, Perfect Summer', forthcoming via the Montclair, New Jersey-based Magic Door Record Label. Prefab Sprout aficionados will surely appreciate the cover homage to the band’s Steve McQueen masterpiece.

The King Canutes is Keir Woods (vocals, electric and acoustic guitars), who brings a sonorous true folk voice of Northern England, while Richard Alwyn Fisher (vocals, backing vocals, electric and acoustic guitars) is the scrappy Replacements-style Midwesterner. The pair met in Brooklyn in the early 2000s in NYC’s cosmopolitan pop / indie rock scene and released their debut EP 'Last Callers and Losers' in 2008.

The duo used to perform this song for ‘The Love Hangover’ [an annual post-Valentine’s Day show]. This version blossoms into a smooth swaggering rock ride out. Woods' vocals evoke the wistfulness of the original version while Fisher's sinewy guitar lines break down the layers, then build back as a drum machine transitions to live drums by Kevin March of Guided by Voices.

“When we first began playing “Cars and Girls” live it was stripped back to the bare essence, in contrast to the Prefab Sprout very eighties classic. But over the years, and with the gifts of the studio, our version has become as layered and baroque as the original!,” says Keir Woods.

Richard Alwyn Fisher adds, “Prefab Sprout offered such a unique voice, and it was fun and satisfying to create a version that was both an homage and also a new and personal take on the song.”

The King Canutes make intelligent, skewed pop with echoes of early 80s-90s Australian and Scottish pop, British folk and Midwestern indie rock, all melted in the current cosmopolitan cauldrons of New York and London. Combining the dynamic tension of dual singer-songwriters, their music sites somewhere between The Go-Betweens and the long-distance, long-haul commitment of The Postal Service,

The duo recently released 'Seymour Stein (for Earle Holmes)', named for Earle Holmes, the club owner and friend who gave Keir his Paris bookings after moving from NYC. This song captures the elation of freedom and the frustration of starting the artistic journey again. This song is elevated by stellar horns by Mac Gollehon (David Bowie, Al Jarreau, Duran Duran, Mick Jagger), bassist Dave Derby (Dambuilders, Gramercy Arms, Lloyd Cole), and Jessie Kilguss on backing vocals.

Produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by renowned producer Ray Ketchem (Guided by Voices, Luna, Elk City, Gramercy Arms) at Magic Door Recording Studio, this ambitious album involves world-class artists such as Kendall Meade (Sparklehorse, Mascott), Mike Dillon (Rickie Lee Jones), John Leon (Roky Erickson), David Nagler (Nova Social, Joan Baez, Aaron Neville), Doug McEachern (Suran Song in Stag), Renée LoBue (Elk City) and Verena Wiesendanger (Semi Gloss).

As of October 21, 'Cars and Girls' is out everywhere, including Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp. The 'Eastern Seaboard, Perfect Summer' album, out on November 21st, is now available for pre-order.

ALBUM CREDITS
Written by Keir Woods and Richard Alwyn Fisher, except
'Cars and Girls' written by Paddy McAloon
Produced, recorded, mixed & mastered by Ray Ketchem at Magic Door in Montclair, NJ
Keir Woods / vocals, electric and acoustic guitars
Richard Alwyn Fisher / vocals, backing vocals, electric and acoustic guitars
Dave Derby / bass, backing vocals

Kevin March / drums
Ray Ketchem / percussion, keyboard

Mac Gollehon / horns

Jessie Kilguss / backing vocals
Single artwork by Peregrine Honig
Album artwork by Ray Ketchem
Released by Magic Door Record Label
Artist photos by Lisa Whiteman
Publicity by Shameless Promotion PR

Pinkshift Drop New Song"Authority Problem" Ahead of U.S. Headline Tour Kickoff

October 12, 2025

Over the summer, Maryland trio PINKSHIFT — vocalist Ashrita Kumar(they/them), guitarist Paul Vallejo (he/him), and drummer Myron Houngbedji (he/him) — released their head-turning new album EARTHKEEPER via Hopeless Records. Get it here.

The band has shared the brand new song "Authority Problem."

"Fuck ICE, fuck the left and the right, fuck the false decorum of rules and laws and executive orders just created to make people feel small and helpless. Only I know who I am, and if you disrespect me then I don’t care, you’ll feel my wrath," the band says about releasing the song in the here and now.

Pinkshift will hit the road this week on a headline U.S. run. All dates are below.

PINKSHIFT ON TOUR:
10/10 — Asbury Park, NJ — Asbury Lanes
10/11 — Richmond, VA — Richmond Music Hall
10/12 — Carrboro, NC — Cat's Cradle Backroom
10/14 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
10/15 — Orlando, FL — Conduit
10/17 — Houston, TX — White Oak Music Hall
10/18 — Austin, TX — The Ballroom
10/19 — Dallas, TX — Club Dada
10/21 — Phoenix, AZ — Rebel Lounge
10/22 — San Diego, CA — The Voodoo Room
10/23 — Santa Ana, CA — Constellation Room
10/24 — Los Angeles, CA — The Echo
10/25 — San Francisco, CA — Bottom of the Hill
10/27 — Portland, OR — Polaris Hall
10/28 — Seattle, WA — Neumos
10/30 — Salt Lake City, UT — Kilby Court
11/01 — Denver, CO — Marquis Theater
11/02 — Lawrence, KS — Bottleneck
11/04 — Minneapolis, MN — 7th Street Entry
11/05 — Chicago, IL — Bottom Lounge
11/07 — Detroit, MI — The Sanctuary
11/08 — Cleveland, OH — Mahall's
11/09 — Pittsburgh, PA — Thunderbird Music Hall & Café
11/11 — Toronto, ON — Hard Luck Bar
11/13 — Boston, MA — Brighton Music Hall
11/14 — Hamden, CT — Space Ballroom
11/15 — Philadelphia, PA — First Unitarian Church
11/16 — Washington, DC — Atlantis

CKY Drop New Single "Can't Stop Running" — Listen // Touring This Fall

October 12, 2025

CKY have returned with "Can't Stop Running," their first new music since 2018. Released without advance notice, the track marks a new chapter for the band — one that builds on years of relentless touring and renewed creative momentum. Confident, melodic, and unmistakably CKY, the song hints at the evolution driving their next era.

Listen here or below.

"This song has been a favorite of ours since it was written and demoed, and it’s remained one of the standouts," says guitarist and singer Chad I. Ginsburg. "It will be played on tour and we're very proud of it. The rest of the upcoming tracks we'll be releasing are all over the map — however, this one happens to be one of our favorites. It has the perfect happy/sad feel, and shows real progression and growth in writing. This is a song for everyone — not just CKY diehards."

Drummer Jess Margera adds, "I must have heard this song about 2,000 times since we recorded it, and somehow I still get pumped when it comes on shuffle."

A music video for "Can't Stop Running" will be released in the coming weeks.

CKY have always thrived on defiance; born from skate-punk chaos and shaped by hard-earned lessons, yet still driven by the same raw energy that put them on the map. What was once reckless has become refined: The fire's still there; it's now just burning with purpose. Guitarist and vocalist Chad I. Ginsburg fronts the band with confidence and conviction, while co-founder and drummer Jess Margera anchors the sound with the power and precision that have always defined CKY, with his recent solo release Thoughts & Prayers (a multi-artist collaboration featuring members of Alice Cooper, Ween, Kyuss, Circa Survive, The Roots, Opeth, Clutch, and Sum 41) underscoring his ever-evolving musicianship. The chemistry between them remains undeniable — seasoned, focused, and still unmistakably CKY.

The lineup is now completed by acclaimed bassist Mike Leon, whose crushing work with Soulfly, Cavalera, Havok, and Igorrr has made him a standout in heavy and alternative music. A longtime CKY fan, Leon's journey has come full circle — from cheering in the crowd to sharing the stage with the band that inspired him to pick up the bass. Ginsburg calls his addition "a perfect fit," praising Leon's passion, drive, and deep understanding of the band's legacy. Leon made his debut with CKY at Warped Tour, delivering a performance that felt both familiar and fresh, and his presence marks a bold new chapter for the band as they prepare new music and take to the road.

CKY's impact on rock and alternative music is long-established, with a worldwide fanbase known as the "CKY Alliance," and a reputation for high-energy live performances. Invited on tours by acts such as Guns N' Roses, Metallica, and Deftones, the band has consistently demonstrated their versatility, endurance, and appeal. Armed with a new song and a new slate of tour dates to close out 2025, the CKY experience endures. The band will be firing on all pistons in 2026, with more to come.

KING ULTRAMEGA (Ft Richie Kotzen , Charlie Benante) Unveils New Single "Say Hello 2 Heaven", In Memory Of Chris Cornell

October 11, 2025

Alternative rock collective KING ULTRAMEGA, featuring members of ALICE IN CHAINS, ANTHRAX, MASTODON, and SOUNDGARDEN, have unveiled an emotional new rendition of the TEMPLE OF THE DOG classic, "Say Hello 2 Heaven", featuring Richie Kotzen on vocals and guitar. KING ULTRAMEGA crafted this single in loving memory of legendary vocalist Chris Cornell, while raising funds and awareness for MusiCares. MusiCares is the Recording Academy’s nonprofit that provides mental health, addiction recovery, and emergency services to those in the music community.

Originally written by Chris Cornell as a tribute to MOTHER LOVE BONE vocalist Andrew Wood, KING ULTRAMEGA members Richie Kotzen, Charlie Benante, and Mark Menghi have now reinterpreted "Say Hello 2 Heaven" in memory of Chris Cornell. Richie Kotzen lends his soulful, expressive vocal delivery to the reimagined version of the song, imbuing it with deep personal meaning. Kotzen's performance puts emotional expression over technical preparation, resulting in an honest and moving take on the music.

"I lost my sister to suicide in 2022, and that kind of loss changes how you experience certain songs," Kotzen comments. "It's not something I set out to bring into the session, but it showed up. That's when it stopped feeling like just a tribute and became something more personal."

Bassist and mastermind Mark Menghi knew that "Say Hello 2 Heaven" would become an integral piece of KING ULTRAMEGA from the start, due to its lyrical message. Menghi chose to keep the song's arrangement and structure almost identical to the original, but the band took some creative liberties in lending R&B/soul-inspired stylings to the music.

Menghi comments, "The lyrical message in 'Say Hello 2 Heaven' strikes a chord when you think back on how Chris wrote about Andrew's untimely passing, and here we are over 30 years later paying tribute to Chris with his song about his untimely passing. It's an emotional rollercoaster to say the least."

ANTHRAX Drummer Charlie Benante immediately agreed to play on "Say Hello 2 Heaven" due to his personal connection with the song. As a longtime fan of MOTHER LOVE BONE, Benante considers "Say Hello 2 Heaven" to be one of his all-time favorite songs.

About KING ULTRAMEGA:

KING ULTRAMEGA is a passion-driven musical project honoring the life, voice, and genius of Chris Cornell, one of the most gifted artists of our time. It launches in conjunction with SOUNDGARDEN’s long-overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

This project did not begin with a single, dramatic moment. Instead, it grew quietly and gradually, an organic result of years of conversations, inspiration, and deep reverence for a musician whose impact remains immeasurable.

"There is not a singular moment in time that led to this project," says bassist and producer Mark Menghi, the driving force behind KING ULTRAMEGA. "It was a trail of events that led to the formation of KING ULTRAMEGA and the evolving creation to pay tribute to the voice of a generation."

It started in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, when Menghi recorded a version of "Rusty Cage" with friends. What began as a creative release soon became something larger. With every step forward, the project deepened in meaning and purpose. "I kept crossing the mental roadblock of 'you are entering uncharted waters, are you sure you wanna do this?'" Menghi reflects. "Chris is one of those dudes if you cover, you better do it justice."

The decision to continue became clear when SOUNDGARDEN guitarist Kim Thayil joined the project and re-recorded one of his own iconic tracks. "Once Kim got involved and re-recorded one of his own songs, I knew something was brewing,"Menghi says.

Thayil embraced the project wholeheartedly. "I’m super honored to record alongside all the amazing musicians appearing on the KING ULTRAMEGA project," he says. "I’m equally proud that it celebrates SOUNDGARDEN in this tribute to the songwriting of Chris. Ultra-admirably, everyone’s participation is supporting the work of the MusiCares Foundation. Thank you Mark Menghi, Charlie Benante and Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM)."

For Menghi, this project is as personal as it is musical. "I went through some very difficult times in my life. I should not be here right now, but I am," he shares. "I like to think my past trials and tribulations helped me understand Chris just a little, hence the formation of KING ULTRAMEGA."

Song selection was guided by instinct. "My mood. It's really that simple," Menghi explains. "'Rusty Cage' was recorded simply because it's one of my favorite songs featured on one of my favorite records." Other songs came to Menghi during moments of reflection and inspiration. "There is a bunch more in the can right now, all with drums fully recorded, which are currently being worked out for future releases."

The goal was never to reinvent Cornell’s work. It was about honoring it with the respect it deserves. "It really is only about honoring the legacy of Chris Cornell. Nothing more," Menghi says. Each musician brought their own voice, but always in service to the song and to Cornell’s memory.

"Each musician has their own individual musical stamp," Menghi explains. "You hear the absolute best of each one of them. You are talking about musicians who helped invent and shape musical genres and helped define their generations in popular culture, not just music, but society as a whole."

The cast of collaborators is remarkable. Kim Thayil, Charlie Benante, Joe Satriani, William DuVall, Bill Kelliher, Alissa White-Gluz, Kenny Aronoff, Menghi himself, among many others. The mix of past friendships and new connections created a unique bond among them. "I think back and go 'did I really ask Joe Satriani to do an instrumental reinterpretation of one of the greatest modern vocal songs ever recorded?' or 'what the fuck was I thinking asking the great Kim Thayil to re-record one of his own classic Soundgarden songs?'" Menghi laughs. Yet, no egos entered the room. "Each participating musician saw the vision and understood that this is about honoring the legacy of not only an inspiring musician, but an amazing husband, father and man."

For Menghi, Cornell’s music has always been a constant presence. "Chris Cornell has been one of only a very small handful of musical constants in my life," he says. "I never waivered, not once."

Certain moments in the process were surreal. Recording with Thayil was one of them. "I remember thinking back saying to myself 'holy fuck, I’m on a SOUNDGARDEN song with Kim Thayil. What planet are we on?'"

Throughout it all, Menghi served as the project’s creative director, always guided by one central question. "How would Chris like this?" Every choice, from guest musicians to mixes to artwork, was measured against that standard. "If there is even a shred of uncertainty at any point in the process, back to the drawing board we go."

The recordings were completed remotely over several years. The final tracks were mixed with care to ensure a cohesive sound that still captured the raw emotion of the performances.

Hope is the underlying theme that runs through KING ULTRAMEGA. It is an offering to longtime fans and an invitation for younger listeners to discover the timeless brilliance of Cornell’s work. "KU is just a blip in the Chris Cornell universe,"Menghi says. "We are a subtle reminder that Chris was a true musical genius."

For Menghi and his collaborators, KING ULTRAMEGA is both a deeply personal labor of love and one of the greatest honors of their musical lives. "To be here thirty-plus years later paying tribute to whom I believe was the king of those times is one of the greatest musical honors of my life."

Lineup for "Say Hello 2 Heaven":
Richie Kotzen - Guitar, Vocals
Mark Menghi - Bass
Charlie Benante - Drums

Connect with King Ultramega:

kingultramega.com | Apple Music | Spotify | Deezer | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok | X

REDIVIDER Unleashes First Single "Sounds Of Malice"

October 9, 2025

REDIVIDER, the Louisville-based death metal band known for their blend of old school brutality and modern aggression, has released their debut single “Sounds of Malice” today on all streaming platforms. The track is the first offering from their forthcoming full-length album Sounds of Malice, which will be released on January 9, 2026 through Third House Communications.

“Sounds of Malice” introduces listeners to REDIVIDER’s punishing sound and fantasy-driven lyrical style. The song tells the story of a deranged wizard addicted to Liquid Pain, a dark substance harvested from human suffering. Vocalist Jacob Spencer’s delivery is both guttural and deliberate, carried by twisting guitar riffs, time signature shifts, and melodic dissonance.

The full-length album Sounds of Malice will feature seven tracks written with live performance in mind, each exploring themes of death, ritual, and myth. Recorded between Round Table Recording Company and Michael Kent O’Bryan Studio, the album was engineered by Michael Kent O’Bryan and Brian “Bone” Thorburn, mixed by Paul Nunavath, and mastered by Dan Swano at Unisound. The result is a record that captures REDIVIDER’s intense live presence while delivering clarity and depth.

About REDIVIDER:

REDIVIDER is a death metal band from Louisville, Kentucky, formed in 2021 by vocalist Jacob Spencer and guitarist Paul Nunavath. Joined by guitarist Jake Atha and bassist Alexander Farrington, the band draws influence from the early Florida death metal scene and bands like CANNIBAL CORPSE, MORBID ANGEL, DEATH, and GORGUTS. With a sound rooted in old school brutality and layered with modern aggression, REDIVIDER combines guttural vocals, dissonant riffs, and relentless groove to create music that is both violent and immersive.

The band made their live debut in 2022 and quickly gained recognition in the underground scene, sharing stages with acts such as CREEPING DEATH, CRYPTA, MASACRE, COGNITIVE, and SEE YOU NEXT TUESDAY. Their debut album Sounds of Malice is a conceptually rich, sonically punishing record that blends fantasy-driven storytelling with crushing heaviness. Written with live performance in mind, REDIVIDER’s music thrives on tension, rhythm, and unapologetic intensity, death metal built to be felt as much as heard.

REDIVIDER Lineup:

Jacob Spencer – Vocals
Paul Nunavath – Guitar
Jake Atha – Guitar
Alexander Farrington – Bass
Mike Hargrave – Drums (live)

Connect with REDIVIDER:

Bandcamp: https://redividerdeathmetal.bandcamp.com/album/redivider-demo
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redivider.louisville/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redivider.louisville/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@redivider.louisville
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/77CkHeqMYqtexkkPlTFKur
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/redivider/1788406170

BLACK SEA OF TREES Premiere "A Red Dawn"

October 9, 2025

Traversing a forlorn sense of powerlessness juxtaposed with a ferocious intensity, "A Red Dawn" offers a commentary on human behavior throughout history as well as a search one's sense of self. The Australian progressive metal quartet BLACK SEA OF TREES are beginning their journey to unleash the second album Cult of the Sun. Listen to the first single, "A Red Dawn" HERE.

The band comments on "A Red Dawn":

"The lyrics illustrate the protagonist’s stagnant situation before being confronted by the sun god’s providence. The protagonist makes a covenant with the sun god, offering themselves in return for power to destroy their enemies and the creation of a new kingdom. The song ends with the protagonist destroying the temples of the old gods and the slaughter of those that upheld that religion."

Listen Below.

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

Connect with BLACK SEA OF TREES:
Bandcamp: https://blackseaoftreesofficial.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackseaoftrees
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC24GQ_gVO_PPBR5TJqmdZpQ
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3zogtBHiOCIaGsOfy7y6oS
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/au/artist/black-sea-of-trees/946433249

CYNIC Releases 'Focus: The Official Drum and Bass Tracks,' Out TODAY via Bandcamp

October 3, 2025

CYNIC will release 'Focus, The Official Drum and Bass Tracks' on Friday, October 3, exclusively on Bandcamp. For the first time, fans can hear Sean Malone’s bass and Sean Reinert’s drums in complete isolation from the band’s landmark era. This collection offers an intimate listen into the rhythmic heart of Cynic, revealing the nuance, interplay, and precision that shaped the group’s sound. Listen Below.

CYNIC guitarist and founding member Paul Masvidal comments, "These tracks let you sit inside what feels like an intimate conversation between two master musicians. Malone and Reinert created a foundation that remains vividly alive, existing in its own realm. This release honors their legacy and offers a glimpse into the heartbeat that carried Focus. And for drummers and bass players out there, it is a master class in progressive metal rhythm section work from true visionaries.”

'Focus' is the debut album by American progressive death metal band Cynic, released in 1993. It is renowned for its innovative blend of technical death metal with jazz fusion elements, featuring complex time signatures, philosophical lyrics, and prominent use of vocoder effects on the vocals. The album is considered a landmark in progressive metal, influencing countless bands with its unique sound and intricate musicianship.

This Friday's launch is taking place on Bandcamp Friday, an artist- driven initiative that began in March of 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic when the shuttering of venues led to a loss of vital tour revenue for artists. Since then, Bandcamp Fridays—on which Bandcamp waives its revenue share and passes the funds directly to artists & labels—has resulted in millions of fans paying over $120 million directly to labels and musicians they love. In addition to helping artists pay the rent, or fund album recordings and tours, Bandcamp Fridays have also become a beacon for artists and record labels looking to raise awareness for causes or raise money for charities.

Follow:

HENCE REINVENTS SOFT CELL’S ICONIC ‘SEX DWARF’ WITH A SURREAL, THEATRICAL TWIST.

October 2, 2025

Hence — the Anglo-Danish collective known for transforming coincidence into art — have released their latest single: a radical reimagining of Soft Cell’s cult classic ‘Sex Dwarf’. More than just a cover, Hence’s version is a full-scale reinvention. Where the original throbbed with sleaze and synth-driven menace, Hence lean into the decadent, surreal and theatrical. Layers of modular electronics collide with dark disco beats, while their signature universe of silver spheres, poodle masks, and modular chaos refracts the song into something at once familiar and entirely new. For Hence, the choice of ‘Sex Dwarf’ was not coincidence alone, but a chance to trace a line back to their synth heritage. “It’s about taking something iconic, shaking it loose and letting it mutate through our collective,” the band says. “Soft Cell’s original was already outrageous. We wanted to push it through our lens of absurdity and meaning — until it became both homage and subversion.”

The track follows Hence’s April 2025 release ‘Steadying The Ship’, which established the band’s reputation for existential lyricism and cinematic soundscapes. With ‘Sex Dwarf’, Hence showcases the other side of their DNA: playful provocation, theatrical excess and fearless reinvention.

“Hence is more than just a band,” they added. “It’s a community of chance. Every collaborator leaves a fingerprint and every accident is welcomed as part of the final work.”

Das Konductor makes his second appearance in the Hence universe - this time stepping forward not just as a spectral narrator but as a full vocal presence. On Hence’s radical reimagining, Das Konductor lends his unmistakable voice, twisting decadence into theatre, menace into play.

“We live in a time of sharp debates about what can and can’t be said. With Hence, we believe in the strength of artistically expressed absurdities. Borders can be set by politics but they are felt through the arts. What we love is how the unconventional inevitably turns us back toward the conventional, and vice versa. That interplay with life is, to us, the foundation of art.” – Knuth, Hence

With this performance Hence has shaped its provocative reinvention into something that is at once homage and subversion. Das Konductor also returns in ‘Jewels Of The Night’, delivering the spoken passages which introduce the forthcoming video with nocturnal poetry.

Performed by Hence & Das Konductor
Produced & Mixed by Knuth
Mastered by Jaran Hereid
Remixed by Aesthetic Perfection
Written by Marc Almond & David Ball
Published by Arto-Music/Warner Chappell Music
℗ 2025 Cosmic Cassettes

THE NARRATOR - Release Video For New Single 'Pills From The Start'

October 2, 2025

Following the Summer festival season, with shows at some of the biggest and most renowned metal festivals in Europe, such as Wacken and Summer Breeze, modern metalcore sensation THE NARRATOR have unleashed a new single called 'Pills From The Start'. The blistering, groove led anthem is tackling toxic friendships that leave a lasting scar. The struggles with pain of self-worth can be heard in the visceral delivery from vocalist Fabian Jochum throughout the song. Alongside the single, a music video has been released, which you can watch below.

Just like the previous single, 'Unbind Me', 'Pills From The Start' was mastered by Grammy award winning mastering engineer Ted Jensen at Sterling Sound.

If you want to catch THE NARRATOR live, which is highly recommended: the band will embark on an extensive European tour with ANNISOKAY starting October 10th. Be quick as tickets are going fast. You can find all confirmed dates at the bottom. Furthermore, a hometown headline show in Essen has been announced for December 20th, 2025, rounding off a successful year for THE NARRATOR with a party for the ages!

THE NARRATOR commented:
”'Pills From The Start' is about finding your own worth even when toxic friendships try to drag you down. Playing it live on our upcoming tour will be the perfect way to turn that message into a shared experience with our fans."

Stream 'Pills From The Start':
https://thenarrator.bfan.link/pills-from-the-start

Watch the music video for 'Pills From The Start' Below.

About THE NARRATOR:

THE NARRATOR were founded in 2017 in the Ruhr area of Germany and have been captivating audiences with their energetic songwriting and electrifying live performances from the very beginning. After successful tours and festival appearances, THE NARRATOR steadily made a name for themselves in the global metalcore scene.

In September 2024, THE NARRATOR released their highly anticipated debut album Lore – 10 tracks that speak volumes, boasting an impressive 12 million streams across all platforms to this day. Their latest single, 'Unbind Me', mastered by Ted Jensen (STERLING SOUND – BRING ME THE HORIZON, GREEN DAY, KORN, and many more), proved once again that THE NARRATOR is essential for every modern metal playlist. But one thing is certain: the best is yet to come!

ORDEN OGAN Unleash New Single "Conquest", Live In Oberhausen, While Touring With WINDROSE and ANGUS MCSIX

October 1, 2025

German dark power metal force ORDEN OGAN have dropped a thunderous new live version of their fan-favorite track “Conquest”, taken from their latest full-length The Order Of Fear, released in July 2024 via Reigning Phoenix Music here.

Recorded during the band’s Tour of Fear in the sold-out Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen, Germany, this version captures the raw intensity and electric communion between the band and their audience. “Conquest” has quickly risen to become a staple in the ORDEN OGAN setlist, and this live cut shows exactly why: riffs sharp as steel, massive choruses, and a crowd roaring as one. ORDEN OGAN once again prove that true power metal lives on stage: loud, larger than life, and unforgettable!

Frontman Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann states:

“'Conquest' has become one of the absolute fan favorites within the last 12 months since the release of The Order of Fear. This recording was captured in the sold-out Turbinenhalle (Oberhausen, Germany) on ORDEN OGAN’s Tour of Fear. I think we managed to capture the energy between band and audience. Enjoy!”

Stream/Download "Conquest" here: https://ordenogan.rpm.link/conquestlive

Don’t miss the chance to experience "Conquest" and other ORDEN OGAN hymns
live on their upcoming tour with WIND ROSE and ANGUS MCSIX:

Tickets & Info: https://ordenogan.de/pages/on-tour

About ORDEN OGAN:
ORDEN OGAN are an essential part of the international metal scene with their top status leading back to their debut album Vale (2008). Their 2021-album, Final Days, even reached position 3 of the official German Album Charts, and having up to more than half a million monthly listeners on Spotify makes them one of the most successful metal acts when it comes to streaming. Epic melodies, impactful lyrics and unmistakeable passion for the genre define the band's work, and their latest studio offering The Order Of Fear only continued their musical journey by promising fans a monumental experience.

Led by Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann, the seventh album is arguably their hardest- hitting work to date. The Order Of Fear persists the ORDEN OGAN saga with a triumphant lesson in dark power metal: the album features eleven powerful tracks (including a spoken interlude) that offer a fresh perspective on the band's ever- evolving sound, resulting in an explosion of thought-provoking melodies and rhythms.

The Order Of Fear once again hit the German Album Charts at #3, followed by spectacular festival performances and their very well received Tour of Fear.

The Order Of Fear was released on July 5, 2024 through RPM as an exclusive box-set (including a CD-digipak and a unique board game for up to 32 players to make fans act as various characters of the ORDEN OGAN world), coloured 1LP vinyl (splatter, crystal clear or clear turquoise), and CD-digipak.

Visit: https://ordenogan.rpm.link/theorderoffearPR

P.OD. Share Surprising Cover of a Classic — LISTEN // Touring With Seether + Daughtry This Fall

September 30, 2025

Platinum selling superstars P.O.D. — Sonny Sandoval [vocals], Marcos Curiel[guitar], and Traa Daniels [bass] — are back and with a twist. They are sharing a surprising but incredible cover of a classic.

They have shared their rendition of The Beatles' iconic track "Don't Let Me Down." Watch and listen below.

"As cliché as it may sound, we've always admired The Beatles from the very beginning of our songwriting journey," says Curiel. "Their melodies, the hooks, and fearless experimentation inspired us to craft our own take on the classic 'Don't Let Me Down,' with nothing but the utmost respect. Thank you for helping lay the foundation of what we all know today as rock 'n' roll, pop, and metal."

P.O.D. will hit the road this fall, supporting Seether + Daughtry. All dates are below. Get tickets here.

Curiel is eager to get back on the road, saying, "Touring is a gift, a blessing to share P.O.D.'s music live with the world. Absolutely nothing compares to the energy of a crowd feeling and vibing every note. We're ecstatic to join an amazing lineup that embodies the true essence of rock 'n' roll fusing the familiar with the new — a real evolution. We are proud to be part of it. Let's jam, let's sing, let's rock.."

P.O.D. ON TOUR:
WITH SEETHER + DAUGHTRY: 10/1—The Dome —Virginia Beach VA
10/3—Hard Rock Live—Atlantic City NJ
10/4—Stone Pony Summer Stage—Asbury Park NJ
10/5—Wind Creek Event Center—Bethlehem PA
10/7—MGM Music Hall at Fenway—Boston MA
10/8—Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater—Bridgeport CT
10/10—Rose Music Center—Huber Heights OH
10/11—Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre—Sterling Heights MI
10/12—Pier Six Pavilion—Baltimore MD
10/15—Everwise Amphitheater—Indianapolis IN
10/17—Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre—Charlotte NC
10/18—Red Hat Amphitheater—Raleigh NC
10/20—Covelli Centre—Youngstown OH
10/22—Walmart AMP—Rogers AR
10/24—FirstBank Amphitheater—Franklin TN
10/25—Chastain Park Amphitheatre—Atlanta GA
10/31—The Midland Theatre—Kansas City MO
11/1—Filmore Auditorium—Denver CO
11/5—The Factory—Chesterfield MO
11/6—Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom—Chicago IL
11/8—UPMC Events Center—Moon Township PA
11/9—Appalacian Wireless Arena—Pikeville KY
11/11—The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory—Irving TX
11/12—713 Music Hall—Houston TX
11/14—Charlotte Country Fair—Port Charlotte FL
11/15—FTL War Memorial—Fort Lauderdale FL

In May 2024, P.O.D. released their 11th album VERITAS via Mascot Records. The album was a Top 10 hit across the U.S. Billboard Current Hard Rock, Current Rock, and Current Alternative album charts, and has already surpassed 65 million streams. The band has released several singles from the album including "DROP," "AFRAID TO DIE," "I GOT THAT," and "I WON'T BOW DOWN." "DROP" features a vicious vocal feature from Lamb of God singer Randy Blythe, while the equally eruptive single "AFRAID TO DIE," features Jinjer vocalist Tatiana Shmayluk. The album picked up major playlisting across Spotify, Apple, Amazon, and Pandora, and steamrolled support from SXM. Octane, Loudwire, BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 2, Kerrang! Radio, Metal Hammer, Kerrang! Magazine, Knotfest, INKED, Revolver and more.

Adam Ezra Group - “ERICA” IS LIVE TODAY!!

September 24, 2025

This is our second release from the “Revelate” album. Many more to come. I can’t wait to share them all with you. ♥️

Just like when a new restaurant opens up, the first week or two are always so important! Head over to your favorite streaming platform and take a listen. Not only will you get to hear our latest release, but the more people who listen, the more our song gets recommended to other first-timers…cool how that works right?

Wanna be an all-star? Like the song and follow us on Spotify or Apple Music.

Wanna be a super-star? Listen again, add it to a playlist, and/or share with others!

Since the beginning of June, over 160,000 people around the world have listened to us on Spotify alone. This has been sparked by you. This lil’ community of ours simply listening and sharing. Pretty inspiring!

CHRONICLER OF ARDUL Releases New Single “Watch Over Me”

September 21, 2025

CHRONICLER OF ARDUL, the dark fantasy symphonic death metal project composed and produced by David Williams, presents a new single titled “Watch Over Me.” This song departs from the heavier sonic palette of earlier releases, shifting toward a stripped-down, folk-rooted sound shaped by the world it inhabits.

The track is written from the perspective of travelers in Ardul, where moving between places carries real risk. It speaks from within that moment of vulnerability, not as a theatrical gesture, but as part of everyday life in a world shaped by danger and isolation. The song is not bleak. It reaches upward, asking unseen forces for protection, and gives voice to those hoping to make it home.

“‘Watch Over Me’ is tavern folk song about what it's like being on the road, especially those not prepared for the dangers that lurk in the shadows all around. But it's not a dark song, it's a hopeful song that begs the gods to make sure they are safe and can make it back home.

In Ardul traveling the roads is not taken lightly, but can be a necessary task to overcome. And along side the stories of Myrewood and Sword of Virné, ‘Watch Over Me’ helps tell what life is like in this harsh world.

It was an amazing collaboration to work with Sofia Frasz, most known for her work in Exiled Hope. We had talked before and wanted to combine our bardic powers, and it was a pleasure to finally start working with her.” – David Williams

The recording features Sofia Frasz, vocalist and composer behind EXILED HOPE. Her performance carries the song’s core emotion with clarity and restraint, and adds a distinct perspective to the growing body of work set in Ardul.

“Watch Over Me” expands the narrative established through Myrewood and Sword of Virné, offering a look at the people who move between those stories. It adds depth to the worldbuilding while remaining musically intimate.

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/@davidwmusic

COLIN STOUGH THROWS DOWN "20 BUCKS" WITH EDGY NEW RELEASE AVAILABLE NOW

September 20, 2025

19 Recordings/BMG Nashville artist Colin Stough turns up the volume on his Southern rock-country edge with the release of “20 Bucks,” out now. Listen Below. Bold and uncompromising, the Mississippi native—who rose to national recognition as a Top 5 finalist on ABC’s American Idol in 2023 and has amassed over 80 million streams—delivers a powerful performance marked by gritty vocals and a rebellious swagger.

"’20 Bucks’ is that moment when you’re down on your luck, she’s gone with another man, money’s tight—but you’re still out here trying to have a good time,” shares Stough.

Raw, unflinching, and soaked in Southern grit, “20 Bucks” finds Colin Stough channeling heartbreak into an edgy anthem. Penned by Stough, along with Kevin Monahan and Will Pattat, and produced by James LeBlanc and Phillip White, the biting honesty of the track captures the sting of betrayal, the temptation of vices, and the struggle of scraping by with little more than twenty dollars to ease the pain. Fueled by distorted guitars, swagger, and Stough’s unapologetically rough-edged vocals, “20 Bucks” turns heartache into a battle cry for anyone who’s ever been cheated on, left behind, or pushed to their breaking point.

About Colin Stough

Born and raised on the Mississippi-Alabama line, 21-year-old Colin Stough was brought up on Southern rock and second chances. A self-taught guitarist and gravel-voiced storyteller influenced by The Allman Brothers, Conway Twitty, and Koe Wetzel, he first picked up a guitar at age 8, later trading in his prized possessions for a pawn shop acoustic — one he still plays today. After high school, he worked full-time as an HVAC tech until his mom pushed him to audition for American Idol Season 21. That leap launched a life-changing ride: a standout third-place finish, a deal with 19 Recordings / BMG Nashville, and breakout songs like “Sober,” “'Til The Day One Does,” and 2025’s hard-edged anthem, “White Trash.”

With a skinned-raw vocal and lyrics carved from lived experience, Stough has built a loyal following of over 800k across social platforms. His EPs Promiseland and Lookin’ For Home offer a no-frills portrait of a young man navigating life with Southern grit, and his latest song, “20 Bucks,” keeps with the no-holds-barred theme. On the road, he’s opened for acts like Chase Matthew, Drake White, and Kidd G, and is continuing to build his live show through 2025. A student of Skynyrd and the outlaw spirit, Stough isn’t chasing trends — he’s telling the underdog’s truth, one song at a time.

KEEP UP WITH COLIN STOUGH
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

DRAKE MILLIGAN RELEASES BRAND-NEW SONG "TUMBLEWEED"

September 20, 2025

Critically acclaimed Country artist Drake Milligan has released his brand-new song “Tumbleweed,” which offers a fresh spin on his signature sound, and is available everywhere now - Listen Below. Written by Bobby Pinson, Cam Newby, and Ian Christian and produced by Trent Willmon, Milligan hand-picked this song as it resonates with his lifestyle as a “tumbleweed” being blown around the world playing 300+ shows over the past 3 years. The track gives a loving nod to those that keep him grounded through the business, being the “wind” that guides him.

The song arrives on the second night Milligan will be opening for Lainey Wilson on her “Whirlwind World Tour” at Dickies Arena in his hometown of Ft. Worth, TX. Earlier this week, Milligan announced his very own headlining show at Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville, TN on Tuesday, November 11th. Grab your tickets on his website at drakemilligan.com.

Fresh off a global headlining tour and opening for Luke Bryan and Blake Shelton, Milligan continues to prove why he’s one of country music’s most exciting rising stars. “Tumbleweed” is the first taste of new music from Milligan following the success of his 2024 EP, Jukebox Songs.

About Drake Milligan:

Drake Milligan burst onto the national music stage entering the Billboard Emerging Artists Chart at #5 after dominating iTunes with his debut album, Dallas/Fort Worth, charting back-to-back #1 hits on the iTunes Country Songs Chart, #1 on iTunes All-Genre Chart and reclaimed the #1 spot on iTunes Country Albums Chart, all while simultaneously holding positions #1, #2, #3 and #5 on iTunes Country Video Chart. In the UK, Milligan’s debut album spent 11 consecutive weeks in the Top 20 of the Official Country Artists Albums Chart. A student of classic Country music with the swagger of early Rock ‘n’ Roll, the Fort Worth, Texas native is an electrifying entertainer who cites George Strait and Elvis Presley – the King of Country and the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll – as musical heroes, and his unique twist of traditional Country has been embraced by fans, peers and the media alike. Milligan has performed on The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Grand Ole Opry, Stagecoach and CMA Music Festival, and earned high praise from People, BBC, USA Today, Parade, American Songwriter, CMT.com, Billboard, ET, Access Hollywood, Cosmopolitan, Cowgirl Magazine and Taste of Country. Following his Dallas/Fort Worth debut – named “One of the Best Country Albums of 2022” by Billboard and others – Milligan uncorked a Canadian Country Radio #1 in 2023 (“Honky Tonkin’ About” with The Reklaws) and garnered 5 million views in just a few months with “Cowgirl For Christmas.” His latest EP release titled, Jukebox Songs, features four all new tracks and was released in 2024, with hit single “I Got A Problem” earning #1 on the Australian Country Radio charts. The acclaimed “Artist to Watch” (CMT, Pandora, etc.) also returned to his primetime TV roots for a performance on the America’s Got Talent spin-off show, America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League and hit the road alongside Cody Johnson on his 2024 U.S. arena tour. With over 230M streams worldwide, Milligan has spent 2025 on his own headlining tour and opening for Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan, and Blake Shelton. Set to release an all-new song, “Tumbleweed," on September 19th, Milligan is preparing for his next chapter.

Deadly Apples Release “Sacrifice” Featuring Members of Nine Inch Nails and Filter

September 20, 2025

Montreal-based rock/metal powerhouse Deadly Apples is back with a new epic and dark single, "Sacrifice," available now on all major streaming platforms.

“Sacrifice” features collaborations with Richard Patrick (Filter / Nine Inch Nails) on vocals and Danny Lohner (Nine Inch Nails / Till Lindemann) on guitars and bass. The single was produced by Antoine Lamothe, with mixing handled by Ben Grosse (Depeche Mode), mastering by Tom Baker (Marilyn Manson), and pre-production by legendary producer Michael Beinhorn (Korn). The drums for the track were recorded on Lars Ulrich’s iconic Black Album kit, adding a historic edge to its crushing sound.

The band’s previous single, “Volatile,” made a major impact upon release—surpassing 100k Spotify streams in its first week and 100k YouTube views in just over a week. The track was featured on major editorial playlists including Spotify’s All New Metal, new nü, and Industrial Metal; Apple Music’s Breaking Hard Rock; and Deezer’s Industrial. The “Volatile” music video premiered at Montreal Fetish Weekend and went on to be selected for the Silver Screenings at the Berlin Music Video Awards (June 2025). The release also generated extensive coverage across top rock and metal outlets along with numerous interviews.

Deadly Apples continued their rise with major live shows in 2025, including Welcome to Rockville (Florida) and the Vivo x el Rock Festival (Peru), where they performed on the main stage alongside Avenged Sevenfold and Marilyn Manson.

Deadly Apples have built a loyal following thanks to their unique sound and relentless touring schedule, which has seen them share the stage with rock and metal heavyweights around the globe such as Korn, Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Deftones, and Rammstein.

Fans can stream or download "Sacrifice" on all major platforms.

Listen to the single

https://ffm.to/dasacrifice

https://linktr.ee/deadlyapples

About Deadly Apples:

Montreal rock / metal band Deadly Apples – frontman / lyricist Alex Martel and drummer / composer Antoine Lamothe – has forged a reputation for its fierce, unpredictable, and high energy live performances often culminating with Martel diving – and drowning – into the crowd. As rock music – and society – has become increasingly safe and bland, the French-Canadian band has received praise for bringing back the danger and unpredictability to unsuspecting audiences.

Accompanied on stage by a touring guitarist and keyboardist / dancer, the Great White North act has showcased its intensity in arenas and stadiums around the globe – United States, Mexico, South America, Europe, Japan – on high-profile tours with Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Korn, Deftones and Rammstein, as well as Main Stage slots on festivals such as Hellfest Open Air, Knotfest, Vans Warped Tour, Hell & Heaven Fest and Resurrection Fest.

On their new full-length album DISTRESS, Deadly Apples push the limits of their catchy sound to every extreme: darker, deeper, and heavier, yet their most accessible work yet. Interlaced with cinematic atmospheres, poignant melodies, singular screams, gritty analog synths, pummeling drum beats, abrasive guitars, delicate pianos and heartfelt lyrics, DISTRESS is a unique, relevant and modern take on a classic genre that they made their own.

Recorded in Los Angeles, the album was produced by Lamothe, mixed by Ben Grosse (Marilyn Manson) and mastered by Tom Baker (Nine Inch Nails), with NIN alumni Danny Lohner performing the guitars / bass and Richard Patrick of Filter providing guest vocals. Early pre-production work was also completed with Michael Beinhorn (Korn).

Deadly Apples is back and will fucking destroy anyone standing in its path.
THE DISTRESS IS COMING…………………………………………..

For More Information Please Visit:

PROFANE ELEGY Unleashes New Single “As My Heart Turns to Ash” with Visualizer

September 20, 2025

Independent black metal visionaries PROFANE ELEGY have released their latest single, “As My Heart Turns to Ash,” today, accompanied by a haunting visualizer. The track is the latest cut from their highly anticipated sophomore album, Herezjarcha, due out January 30, 2026.

“As My Heart Turns to Ash” is a doom-laden lament that explores themes of emotional detachment, hardening one’s heart, and walking away from what cannot be saved. With its deliberate pacing, mournful melodies, and the introduction of ghostly clean vocal passages, the song marks one of the band’s most introspective and vulnerable moments to date.

The single is the latest glimpse into Herezjarcha, an album that expands every dimension of PROFANE ELEGY’s sound. Following their acclaimed 2023 debut When All Is Nothing, which drew praise for its fusion of atmospheric black metal and doom-laden despair, the upcoming record promises to be heavier, more dynamic, and thematically deeper. Produced by J Gulick and mastered by Kevin Antreassian (Backroom Studios), Herezjarcha embodies the band’s commitment to vision over genre purity, weaving together black, doom, death, and progressive elements with orchestral textures and philosophical lyricism.

About PROFANE ELEGY

PROFANE ELEGY is a black metal band from Bangor, Pennsylvania, formed in late 2021 by guitarist J Gulick and vocalist Mikael L. Originally conceived as a two-man studio project, the band quickly evolved into a full lineup with the addition of bassist David G and drummer Sean M in 2023. What sets PROFANE ELEGY apart is their refusal to remain confined within genre boundaries—while rooted firmly in black metal, their sound incorporates elements of death, doom, and progressive metal, often enhanced by orchestral arrangements and clean vocals.

The band’s debut album When All Is Nothing (2023) was released independently and drew attention for its blend of atmospheric aggression and emotional vulnerability. The release earned praise for its ability to move fluidly between blistering speed and melancholic melody, with Doom Heart calling it “a massive Doom delight.” Following the album’s release, PROFANE ELEGY made their live debut and began performing across the northeastern United States, including a notable support slot for Dark Funeral in late 2024.

Lyrically, the band explores themes of nihilism, mortality, philosophy, and religious symbolism—often invoking figures like Satan not as dogmatic statements, but as metaphors in a broader spiritual and existential dialogue. Their work is poetic, introspective, and often challenges the listener to confront uncomfortable truths about life, death, and belief.

Their upcoming full-length album Herezjarcha, set for release in January 2026, represents the band’s most ambitious and expansive work to date. With a more dynamic sound, deeper orchestration, and a clear conceptual throughline, the record pushes their sonic and thematic boundaries further than ever before. The album title—a made-up word meaning “arch-heretic”—encapsulates the spirit of the band: rebellious, introspective, and unafraid to question the sacred.

PROFANE ELEGY continues to forge a unique path within the underground metal scene. Blending bleak intensity with philosophical weight, they aim not just to be heard—but to be felt.

PROFANE ELEGY is:

Mikael L – Vocals, Orchestration
J Gulick – Guitars, Orchestration
David G – Bass, Orchestration
Sean M – Drums

Connect with PROFANE ELEGY:

Bandcamp: https://profaneelegy.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Profane-Elegy/100092367915270/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profane_elegy/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/profaneelegy666
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@profaneelegy-23?si=OGKGak-ibt4gl7vK
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/68ATD5yRmlH8jtbdZQzVFy?si=4THaO3qZRQaWLZUCvS4N1Q
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/profane-elegy/1687009599
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@profaneelegy

DEVORA Releases New Single "Cocaine Karaoke"

September 19, 2025

Outlaw pop trailblazer DEVORA has released her brand-new single “Cocaine Karaoke” alongside a visualizer, available now on all platforms.

“I wrote ‘Cocaine Karaoke’ in Nashville with Johnny Gates and Austin Luther, and it came out of one of the most unhinged relationships I’ve ever been in,” DEVORA shares. “I was dating this guy who was living a double life; completely full of shit, always coked up, making these wild promises that never meant anything. It almost became a running joke how insane his lies got, like I was just buying into this karaoke version of reality he was selling me. Fed up and spun out on emotional whiplash, I put it all into this song."

She adds, "His lies started to feel like karaoke: loud, performative, and not real. He’d promise me the world, but it was all just a drug-fueled performance—cocaine karaoke. All noise and no substance. This song is me calling it out for what it was and closing that chapter for good.”

Listen to the single

http://ffm.to/cocainedevora

About DEVORA:

DEVORA is redefining the sound of the American frontier with her self-styled genre, “Outlaw Pop” — a high-octane blend of dark pop, rock, and alt-country rooted in the mystique of the desert. Raised in Arizona, her music channels the raw beauty and danger of the Wild West into cinematic, modern anthems about love, loss, rebellion, and life on the run.

Known for her haunting visuals and fierce stage presence, Devora has toured extensively, supporting The Warning, BUSH, and Austin Meade on sold-out runs across the U.S. This fall, she will return to the road with newly announced tour dates.

Devora is a rising force in modern music, blending bold visuals, genre-bending sound, and a rebellious spirit that’s redefining the pop frontier. Devora is crafting an immersive world where desert mysticism, raw emotion, and rebellion collide. As she continues to push boundaries and build a loyal following, Devora is not just creating songs—she’s shaping a movement.

Upcoming Show Dates:

10/30 - INDIANAPOLIS IN - The Vogue

10/31 - CHICAGO IL - Concord Music Hall

11/01- DETROIT MI - The Magic Bag

11/02 -BUFFALO NY - Electric City

11/04- BOSTON MA - Paradise Rock Club

11/05-NEW YORK NY - Grammercy Theatre

11/06-READING PA - Reverb

11/07-BALTIMORE MD - Soundstage

11/08-PITTSBURGH PA - Mr. Smalls Theatre

11/09-CLEVELAND OH - House of Blues

More dates to be announced soon!

For More Information Please Visit:

GATES TO HELL | RELEASE NEW SINGLE ' DISFIGURED' + KICK -OFF FALL DATES ON SEPTEMBER 20TH!

September 16, 2025

Louisville natives GATES TO HELL deliver a pure shot of adrenaline with their new digital single, "Disfigured'. The song is a brutally heavy, all-killer-no-filler track—essentially one long, punishing breakdown.The track is a b-side from the band's recent album release
Death Comes To All which was recorded, mixed and mastered by Randy LeBoeuf.

GATES TO HELL comments, "We wrote this kind of intro track a few years ago, a few days before we got to tour with Dying Fetus. It didn’t end up on the record we released earlier this year but we still wanted it to get released and when we got an offer to tour with DF again we felt this was a perfect time to drop this B sides track. When we played it on that tour in 2023 it really got the crowd moving every night so we are stoked that we finally have it out for the world to bang their heads to. Don’t forget to come check us out on tour with Dying Fetus and Mugshot."

'Disfigured' Below.

On September 20th, GATES TO HELL will head out on a 24-day trek which will include performances at New England Metal & Hardcore Fest, Louder Than Life as well as join headliners DYING FETUS on their 'Into The Cesspool' US/Canadian 2025 tour with MUGSHOT. Following the tour, the band will end the year with a show on December 13th in Albany, New York. GATES TO HELL will continue their extensive touring in the New Year kicking-off the a run in Europe with SANGUISUGABOGG with openers FULCI and CELESTIAL SANCTUARY.

DYING FETUS 'Into The Cesspool' US/CAN 2025 tour
with MUGSHOT.
09.24 Norfolk, VA @ The Annex
09.25 Charlotte, NC @ Underground
09.26 Greenville, SC @ Radio Room
09.27 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade*
09.28 Birmingham, AL @ Workplay Theater
09.30 Ft. Worth, TX @ Tulips
10.01 El Paso, TX @ Rockhouse Bar & Grill
10.02 Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater
10.06 Seattle, WA @ The Showbox
10.07 Portland, OR @ Dantes
10.08 Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theater
10.10 Calgary, AB @ Mac Ballroom
10.11 Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room
10.13 Winnipeg, MB @ Park Theater
10.14 Fargo, ND @ The Sanctuary
10.15 Minneapolis, MN @ The Varsity
10.16 Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
10.17 Rock Island, IL @ Skylark QC ^
10.18 Joliet, IL @ The Forge
10.19 Grand Rapids, MI @ Elevation
10.20 Cleveland, OH @ The Roxy
* GATES TO HELL + MUGSHOT Only
^ GATES TO HELL only

Festival + Other Dates
09.20 Worcester, MA @ New England Metal & Hardcore Fest
09.21 Louisville, KY @ Louder Than Life
12.13 Albany, NY @ Empire Live

For more information on the tour, please visit: www.gatestohellofficial.com/tour-dates

Fueled by youthful ambition and a sharp creative focus, the band enlisted Randy LeBoeuf. The partnership resulted in raw intensity with a sharpened sense of precision, elevating their sound to new heights. Their album artwork—crafted by WYRMWALK—offers a fitting representation of the blood-soaked dread and suffocating darkness that Death Comes to All unleashes.

Death Comes To All is available in a variety of formats including CD Jewel, LP Vinyl in a purple swirl, light blue splatter (band exclusive), and purple and white swirl with black splatter (Life and Death Brigade Festival | New England Metal & Hardcore Festival exclusive) as well as a T-shirt. Also available is a special edition 7-inch containing the band's first single 'Next To Bleed' from the full-length album.

Order/stream Death Comes to All:
https://gth.bfan.link/death-comes-to-all

We Came As Romans + Currents Release Reimagined Version Of “Bad Luck” Feat. Anthony Notarmaso (After The Burial)

September 15, 2025

Just weeks after wrapping their triumphant Bad Luck U.S. headline tour, metalcore mainstays We Came As Romans have unveiled a reimagined version of single “bad luck”, this time joined by tourmates Currents and Anthony Notarmaso of After The Burial—two of the standout support acts from the tour’s powerhouse lineup. Stream We Came As Romans & Currents - bad luck feat Anthony Notarmaso HERE and watch the visualizer Below.

Originally released as the lead single from All Is Beautiful…Because We’re Doomed—We Came As Romans’ most thematically ambitious and emotionally honest record to date—“bad luck” quickly became a cornerstone of the album’s reflection on grief, transformation, and survival. Stream the album now HERE. The reimagined version brings new weight and perspective, layering in Brian Wille’s commanding vocals and Anthony Notarmaso’s unmistakable intensity. What began as a personal reckoning now expands, bridging three of the scene’s most respected forces into a single moment of cathartic heaviness.

“We were fans of We Came As Romans and After The Burial long before having the pleasure of touring with them and making some life-long memories together,” shares Brian Wille of Currents. “It was a great time getting to collaborate on this new version of bad luck and we’re very excited to share it with all of you!”

“I’m very flattered and honored that the WCAR boys wanted to include me on such an awesome track,” adds Anthony Notarmaso of After The Burial. “I still have the song stuck in my head!”

The release follows We Came As Romans’ sold-out U.S. tour run and arrives ahead of their upcoming fall headline tour across Europe and the UK with Brand Of Sacrifice and Heavensgate, as well as appearances at major US festivals Louder Than Life and When We Were Young Fest.

ABOUT WE CAME AS ROMANS

We Came As Romans continue to progress and evolve at lightspeed, maintaining a place at the forefront of heavy music and culture. Never content to follow, they seamlessly alchemize crushing groove-driven catharsis, spacey electronics, and arena-size singalongs into a sound that refuses to sit still—effortlessly moving between metal, alternative, metalcore, and rock.

The Michigan-born five-piece—Dave Stephens, Joshua Moore, Lou Cotton, Andy Glass, and David Puckett—first broke through with Tracing Back Roots (2013), which cracked the Billboard 200 Top 10 and hit #1 on both the Independent Albums and Top Hard Rock Albums charts. Their self-titled 2015 album followed, debuting at #11 on the Billboard 200, cementing their status as modern metalcore royalty.

Following the tragic loss of original vocalist Kyle Pavone in 2018, the band has continued to honor his legacy with their 2022 album, Darkbloom, their highest-praised record to date. Kerrang! awarded it 4 out of 5 stars, calling it "a carrier for a knot of emotion, and a tribute to their friend." It featured career-defining tracks like "Black Hole" (ft. Caleb Shomo), now over 102 million Spotify streams, and "Daggers" (ft. Zero 9:36), which surpassed 32 million streams. Media outlets including Loudwire and Consequence praised the album for its emotional range, sonic heft, and unapologetic vulnerability.

Now, with 'ALL IS BEAUTIFUL...BECAUSE WE'RE DOOMED,' the band enters their most ambitious chapter yet—scarred, sharpened, and more fearless than ever.

We Came As Romans Are

Dave Stephens - Vocals

Joshua Moore - Guitar

Lou Cotton - Guitar

Andy Glass - Bass

David Puckett - Drums