Photo Credit: Red Cain | L-R: Samuel Ridout, Evgeniy Zayarny, Taylor Gibson, Oman Tribuzy
Set to perform at this year’s Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver, BC on April 10th, power prog storytellers RED CAIN are unveiling their new single “FWAB” (Fire Water, Air, Blood). With its heavy balalaika breakdown, downtuned heavy riffs, and soaring harmonized choruses among atmospheric industrial synth backing, “FWAB” hits hard and never lets go – a primeval ritual chant in front of cold stone, on a frozen steppe, among howling winds.
The band explains the story of the track in further detail:
“In the frozen Eastern European steppes, there stood a fell ancient god. Every ill word fed him, and every ill deed made him more potent. For millennia, he grew strong through kingship over mortal ill will, suffering, and pride, until his nourishment took a new form, unable to feed or strengthen. Without nourishment, the god was powerless, and without power, he slept. After millennia, fed full by ill words and ill deeds, searching for an awakening, the god demands the symbols of his power: Fire, Water, Air, Blood. Join the ritual sacrament of Chernobog. With this new release, the Slavic pagan ritual to call forth the “Black God” takes flight, asking the listener what they would be willing to change their fate.”
Red Cain will be performing on night one of this year’s Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver, BC, on April 10th at The Cobalt alongside Glyph, Tower Hill, Serpent Rider, and Crüzer. Full details on the Hyperspace Metal Festival being held from April 10th to 12th can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival
Red Cain, from Calgary, Canada, is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums Kindred: Act I, Kindred: Act II, and NÄE’BLISS. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with forthcoming releases.
Red Cain: Evgeniy Zayarny – Vocals Samuel Ridout – Guitar Oman Costa – Guitar Taylor Gibson – Drums
I bought this used CD for $4.99, several years ago at my local record store (Omega Music). It was released back in 1991 via FMQB (Friday Morning Quarterback Album Report Inc.). Yes, I never heard of FMQB until this CD crossed my path.
Metal Detector CD Metal Monsters Summer ‘91 has a track-list of 14 songs from 14 different bands/artists. Many of these bands on this CD I had never heard of; such as: The Almighty, Jagged EdgeUK, Pleasure Bombs, Last Crack and Skrapp Mettle. Add in the old school metal cover art and graphics of this CD and I was sold!
Above: back cover with track-list
The Almighty are from Scotland and Ricky Warwick is one of their founding members. Pleasure Bombs were a melodichard rock/heavy metal band from the USA, with only 1 studio album released in 1991. Jagged Edge UK were a glam metal/hard rock band from (of course) the UK. Last Crack is a metal band from Madison, Wisconsin. Skrapp Mettle was a rowdy band of anonymous musicians, with crazy stage names such as Spunk (the lead vocalist). Their songs were of Steel Panther variety for 1991, with “Swallow That Load” appearing on this CD.
Metal heavyweights of Anthrax and Sacred Reich are on here, along with Steve Vai, Stryper and even Dweezil Zappa, making for quite a diverse compilation.
This CD may have been used; only its condition is like new. I consider it a very decent metal find! Thank you for visiting Metal Odyssey! Metal be thy name – Stone.
Released back in 2015, this CD single from the iconic Motörhead includes the songs “Thunder & Lightning” and “Electricity”, both taken from their 23rd studio album Bad Magic.
Bad Magic and this CD single were both released via Motörhead Music / UDR. The Bad Magic studio album was released on August 28th, 2015. I bought this CD single at my nearest Best Buy back then. It was the only one they had left; therefore, I kept it sealed as a collectible for my personal collection. Plus I did buy the Bad Magic CD (earbook version) around the same time.
Pictured on this CD single cover is the late Lemmy Kilmister (center) with Mikkey Dee (left) and Phil Campbell (right). It’s too bad the large coupon sticker completely hides Phil Campbell. I decided long ago not to remove it, just to keep this sealed CD single as original as possible, regardless of the $2 rebate offer.
Back cover of CD single
This is the only Motörhead CD single I own. I do have other CD singles from other metal bands that I plan on posting about in the future. Thank you for visiting and checking this out. Metal be thy name – Stone.
On the heels of re-visiting Latin American stages and announcing a new album and tour for autumn 2025, Canadian high-octane rock three-piece DANKO JONES have released their anticipated single “What You Need“. The song represents the band’s first auditory glimpse from their new album and also marks their debut at their new label, PERCEPTION, while their partnership with Sonic Unyon Records in their home country remains unchanged.
While fans still have to be a little bit more patient until learning more about the forthcoming record, the new track comes straight to the point: “If you want it, you got it, we’re gonna give you WHAT YOU NEED!” Who would even dare to refuse such a teasing offer and say ‘no’ to this powerful new DANKO JONES tune?! Concise guitar riffing introduces the single before the rest of the band jumpstart “What You Need“ leading into its immersive chorus, making it an undeniable future live classic on top.
Danko adds: “‘What You Need’ is not only the first single off our new album, it’s also the opening cut to it. It’s loud, fast, and infectious. Turn this up until the volume knob breaks or your ceiling caves in!”
Photo credit: Jon Usual L-R: Rich Knox (drums), Danko Jones (vocals, guitars), John Calabrese (bass)
“What You Need” was crafted with long-time partners — Grammy and Juno award-winning producer/mixing engineer Eric Ratz (BILLY TALENT, BIG SUGAR, CANCER BATS etc.) and Grammy winning mastering expert Harry Hess (Hbomb Mastering) — and arrives in time for the trio’s first 2025 European show, which will see them take the Paaspop stage in Schijndel, Netherlands in two weeks. Adam Mallett, another well-known face in the DANKO JONES universe, contributed contemporary single artwork which is additionally displayed on the “Danko Jones Is What You Need” tour admat.
As previously mentioned, Danko Jones will promote their upcoming studio album in the traditional way, by embarking on a 15-date tour across Europe, visiting 10 different countries. Further stops might be added over the course of the year. Stay tuned & secure your tickets fromhttps://www.dankojones.com/tour.
DANKO JONES live:
18.04.2025 NL Schijndel – Paaspop 31.05.2025 BE Herenthout – Clamotte Rock 05.06.2025 NO Trondheim – Trondheim Rocks 06.06.2025 SE Sölvesborg – Sweden Rock Festival 14.06.2025 AT Nickelsdorf – Nova Rock 27./28.06.2025 EE Tallinn – Rock Festival 05.07.2025 DE Mainburg – Festival Holledau 17.07.2025 FI Seinäjoki – Vauhtiajot 25.07.2025 NO Fredrikstad – Månefestivalen 26.07.2025 DE Mönchengladbach – Bob! Fest 06. – 10.08.2025 DE Eschwege – Open Flair 15.08.2025 NO Alta – Alta Live 16.08.2025 NO Hardstad – Bakgården 17.08.2025 CH Cudrefin (VD) – Rock The Lakes 21. – 23.08.2025 DE Haddeby – Baltic Open Air
19.11.2025 FI Helsinki – Tavastia 22.11.2025 NO Oslo – Vulkan Arena 26.11.2025 DE Osnabrück – Rosenhof 27.11.2025 LU Luxembourg – Den Atelier 28.11.2025 NL Amsterdam – Melkweg 29.11.2025 UK London – The Underworld Camden 03.12.2025 BE Antwerp – Trix (Main Hall) 04.12.2025 FR Paris – Le Trabendo 06.12.2025 IT Milan – Legend Club 08.12.2025 DE Mannheim – Alte Feuerwache 09.12.2025 AT Salzburg – Rockhouse 10.12.2025 DE Munich – Backstage (Werk) 11.12.2025 DE Cologne – Carlswerk Victoria 12.12.2025 DE Berlin – Astra 13.12.2025 DE Hamburg – Docks
“The WHAT REMAINS North America tour starts NEXT WEEK. It’s been too long, and we can’t wait to hear you scream the lyrics right back at us. We’re hitting the road with Devour the Day, Return to Dust, and Oni, and this is your official warning: chaos is guaranteed.
A chance to lose yourself in the music and emerge changed. If you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, don’t wait. Some shows are already close to selling out. Lock yours in now!”
Tue, Apr 8 – TULSA, OK Thu, Apr 10 – DALLAS, TX Fri, Apr 11 – LITTLE ROCK, AR Sat, Apr 12 – COLUMBIA, MO Sun, Apr 13 – LINCOLN, NE Mon, Apr 14 – DENVER, CO Tue, Apr 15 – COLORADO SPRINGS, CO Thu, Apr 17 – LOS ANGELES, CA Sat, Apr 19 – PHOENIX, AZ Tue, Apr 22 – BOISE, ID Wed, Apr 23 – SEATTLE, WA Thu, Apr 24 – SPOKANE, WA Fri, Apr 25 – SALEM, OR Sat, Apr 26 – RENO, NV Tue, Apr 29 – VANCOUVER, BC Thu, May 1 – CALGARY, AB Fri, May 2 – EDMONTON, AB + Sat, May 3 – SASKATOON, SK Sun, May 4 – WINNIPEG, MB Tue, May 6 – CHICAGO, IL Wed, May 7 – GREEN BAY, WI Thu, May 8 – DES MOINES, IA * Fri, May 9 – GRAND RAPIDS, MI * Sat, May 10 – DETROIT, MI * Mon, May 12 – LITITZ, PA * Thu, May 15 – CHARLOTTE, NC * Fri, May 16 – MYRTLE BEACH, SC * Sat, May 17 – LOUISVILLE, KY * Sun, May 18 – BLOOMINGTON, IL *
Akron, Ohio-based sludge metal merchants in RADIAN have announced a run of tour dates across the Eastern US throughout the Spring months. The melee begins with a trio of April gigs, including a set at Legalize Lex Fest in Lexington, Kentucky. The bulk of the dates run from May 16th through May 27th with the band hitting a good portion of the mid-Atlantic and Southeast, followed by a one-off show in June. See all currently confirmed tour dates below, with more new shows expected to be announced throughout the months ahead.
RADIAN Spring Tour 2025: 4/06/2025 Westside Bowl – Youngstown, OH 4/18/2025 Brothers Lounge – Lakewood, OH 4/19/2025 Legalize Lex Fest @ Al’s Bar – Lexington, KY 5/16/2025 O’Sullivan’s – Fort Wayne, IN 5/17/2025 Southgate House – Newport, KY 5/18/2025 Blind Bobs – Dayton, OH 5/19/2025 Mag Bar – Louisville, KY 5/20/2025 Cherry St Tavern – Chattanooga, TN 5/21/2025 The Odd – Asheville, NC 5/22/2025 Snug Harbor – Charlotte, NC 5/23/2025 Tribble’s – Piedmont, SC 5/24/2025 Flicker Theatre – Athens, GA 5/25/2025 529 – Atlanta, GA 5/27/2025 Banditos – Richmond, VA 6/17/2025 Westside Bowl Youngstown, OH
RADIAN emerged in the winter of 2017, founded by guitarist Mike Burns (ex-Rue, Sofa King Killer). Their vision to merge groove with grime culminated in the roaring, sludgy assault of their independent debut LP, Chapters (2019), praised by The Obelisk as delivering, “that extra bit of aggression one finds underlying the most satisfying of sludge metals.” Fueled by a growing response from the heavy metal community, the dynamic four-piece embraced their DIY roots, building a steady following throughout the Midwest.
This momentum led to the writing and release of their punishing sophomore album, Discordian, on Burns’ own El Burno Records in December 2021. Relentless shows and touring in support of Discordian brought both growth and turbulence, with multiple lineup shifts along the way.
By Fall 2022, drummer DerekVaive (Ommnus) joined the ranks, followed by vocalist Corey Staley (A Damn Shame) solidifying the new lineup in Fall 2024. Now armed with fresh material and a renewed sense of purpose, RADIAN is set to hit the road again in Spring 2025, delivering their brand of sludgy doom with unrelenting force.
RADIAN is currently in the later stages of completing work on their third LP. Stand by for updates as the album is prepared for release in the months ahead.
KING WITCH are releasing their much awaited brand new full length album III on June 27, 2025. The album displays a phenomenal leap forward in terms of songwriting and a massive production.
Formed in late 2015 on the streets of old Edinburgh, King Witch play a lead-heavy brew of rock and doom that draws comparisons ranging from Black Sabbath and Candlemass to Soundgraden and Alice In Chains. The band quickly earned themselves a reputation as a formidable live act and have toured the UK and Europe extensively with the likes of Green Lung as well as playing festivals such as Sweden Rock, Desertfest and Bloodstock..
After self releasing their extremely well received Shoulder of Giants ep, the band were picked up by Listenable Records through which they released their debut album Under The Mountain in 2018 followed by Body Of Light in 2020.
2025 sees the band return with their third and most accomplished full length album, III, featuring Andrew Scott on drums. Produced and mixed by guitarist Jamie Gilchrist in his own studio, Nameless City Sound, III retains the doom and heavy rock elements that characterise their earlier releases while ramping up the energy and focusing on more concise songwriting. The album focuses on where the human race is right now, our apparent desire to destroy ourselves, and the mental struggle to deal with it and carry on living a positive life.
Debut single ‘Swarming Flies’ is scheduled for Friday the 2nd of May, 2025. Don’t miss out on this crushing new track!
Band photo by Simon Anger
King Witch are: Laura Donnelly – Vocals Jamie Gilchrist – Guitar Rory Lee – Bass Drums performed by Andrew Scott
Track-listing:
Suffer In Life 4:14
Deal With The Devil 5:49
Swarming Flies 4:49
Sea Of Lies 6:48
Behind The Veil 6:03
Diggin In The Dirt 4:25
Little Witch 3:24
Last Great Wilderness 8:00
Produced and mixed by Jamie Gilchrist at Nameless City Sound. Mastered by Grant Berry at Fader Mastering. Cover art by Blasted Heathen. Graphic design by Laura Donnelly.
ALIEN, the brand new album from Ecuador’s Anima Inside, is OUT NOW! – as of March 28th via Rockshots Records. A bold and genre-defying release from one of South America’s most dynamic and boundary-pushing rock bands. Fusing heavy rock, Afro-Latin influences, and emotional depth, ALIENis a striking statement of the band’s evolution. Intense, unique, and unmistakably Anima Inside.
Track Listing: 1. Prophet’s Word 2. Through the Glass 3. Alien 4. Survive 5. The Ride 6. Immortal 7. Broken Men 8. Battled Me 9. What’s Wrong With The World Today 10. Free Man
RFK MEDIA signs Bad Marriage – Match Made In Hell album set for summer 2025 release. Bad Marriage has officially signed with Ron Keel’s RFK Media to deliver their new album Match Made In Hell this summer (2025). This powerhouse band out of Boston has been winning over the fans and the media for several years now and is well-positioned for the big time, with a collection of songs that embrace the spirit of their classic roots while capturing a modern active rock sound.
A relentless work ethic combined with a special chemistry between the band members and their fans has earned Bad Marriage a loyal and constantly growing audience, plus appearances on the Monsters Of Rock Cruise and the Monsters On The Mountain Festival, as well as opening slots on tour with Buckcherry, Tesla, Vandenberg and more.
“Bad Marriage has been on our radar for a while,” Keel explains. “I’ve been equally impressed by their aggressive pursuit of success and the aggressive admiration the fans have for this band and their music.”
“Trying to make it in rock n roll these days is like a heavyweight fight,” says BM guitarist Mike Fitz, “and we want people in our corner who aren’t ever going to throw in the towel. RFK Media has a proven track record and together we’re going the distance.” Former Tesla guitarist Tommy Skeoch, who joined Bad Marriage in 2023, echoes that vote of confidence: “I’ve known Ron Keel since the 80’s, and that guy never quits or backs down. It’s really cool how we’ve come full circle now and are all working together to take this band and this music to the next level.”
RFK Media Managing Partner Aaron Fischer signed Bad Marriage on the 2025 Monsters Of Rock Cruise; “There was no pre-nuptial agreement, we just eloped,” he says; “Bad Marriage and RFK Media are truly a match made in hell, built upon our love of the music and the fans.”
Bad Marriage is: Jonny Paquin (vocals) Mike Fitz (lead guitar), Tommy Skeoch (lead/rhythm guitar), Ian Haggerty (rhythm guitar), Todd Boisvert (bass), and Michael Delaney (drums).
March 21, 2025, AUSTIN – The Sword have announced their first European tour dates since 2015, with the recently reunited band slating a trio of intimate club performances alongside festival appearances, including Copenhell, Freak Valley, and Tons of Rock.
The Sword European Tour:
June 19 Copenhagen, DK Copenhell Festival June 21 Netphen, DE Freak Valley Festival June 22 Nijmegen, NL Doornroosje June 25 Gothenburg, SE Monument June 26 Stockholm, SE Slaktyrkan June 28 Oslo, NO Tons of Rock Festival
Tickets for the three exclusive club dates are on-sale now, with ticket links available via TheSwordOfficial.com.
The legendary Austin-based band announced their reunion earlier this year, bringing their signature blend of crushing heaviness and cosmic groove back to audiences who have long awaited their comeback. JD Cronise, in conversation with Revolver, discussed The Sword’s Levitation Festival performance as a turning point for the foursome, describing the experience as “like putting on a comfortable pair of sneakers.” Kyle Shutt added: “I can’t tell you what it means to see everyone’s positive reception. It feels so good to see people out there almost more enthusiastic about the band than ever – it’s something we’ll never take for granted.”
Prior to their European dates, the band will play a pair of Texas shows: April 10 at the Granada Theater (Dallas) and April 11 at Paper Tiger (San Antonio). Additional performances will be announced soon.
Photo credit: Dave Creaney
The Sword is JD Cronise (vocals, guitar), Bryan Richie (bass, keyboards), Kyle Shutt (guitar, vocals), and Santiago Vela (drums). Following their 2003 inception, The Sword quickly became one of the most revered names in heavy music. With a blend of crushing riffs, intricate storytelling, and a sound that bridges classic metal and modern rock, The Sword has released six albums: Age of Winters (2006), Gods of the Earth (2008), Warp Riders (2010), Apocryphon (2012), High Country (2015) and Used Future (2018).
CO-HEADLINING TOUR WITH NAPALM DEATH BEGINS APRIL 4
March 19, 2025, LOS ANGELES – Melvins 1983 – the lineup featuring Buzz Osborne and original drummer Mike Dillard, offer a second preview of Thunderball (out April 18, Ipecac Recordings) with today’s release of “King of Rome” (https://youtu.be/vmwNEPGw1QE).
The charging track once again features contributions from avant-electronic artists Void Manes and Ni Maîtres, with Osborne saying of the song “The ‘King of Rome!! Hot Cross Buns! This song is a hot little punk rock number. I hope all of you enjoy it and tell your friends.” The band previously released the near-10 minute long song “Victory of the Pyramids,” which Consequence declared a “minor epic.”
Album pre-orders are available now (https://themelvins.lnk.to/Thunderball), with Thunderball available on trio of vinyl variants including an indie exclusive “Smoke Is A Color” variant and an Ipecac webstore-only “Special Mustard Gas.” The album will also be available on CD and all digital formats.
The band kicks off a massive nine-week nationwide co-headlining tour with Napalm Death on April 4. Dubbed the “Savage Imperial Death March Part II,” the trek reunites the two iconic following the first “Savage Imperial Death March” tour of 2016. The Melvins’ current touring line-up features Osborne, Dale Crover, Steven McDonald, and Coady Willis. Tickets are available now at Ipecac.com/tours.
In an explosive return to the music scene, the iconic yet notorious band COLD SLITHER has released their first single “Cold Slither,” off their much-anticipated album. This project marks a groundbreaking fusion of real-world music and fictional narrative, bringing to life the villainous charm of the Cobra organization from the classic 1980sG.I. JOEseries.
In a dynamic collaboration, Hasbro and Reigning PhoenixMusic have teamed up to release “Cold Slither.” This partnership breathes new life into COLD SLITHER, a band once crafted as part of a nefarious plot and now reborn with a sound that mixes nostalgia with cutting-edge rock prowess. Helmed by the mysterious Zartan and his band of Dreadnoks, (Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer), the single reintroduces their heavy metal ferocity combined with a sinister, anarchist energy that upends the conventional music scene.
Bringing COLD SLITHER to life through our partnership with RPM has been an absolute dream come true! As a child watching this fictional band on my TV screen, I never imagined I’d one day help transform them from animated rockstars into a tangible, sonic reality. From the meticulously crafted figures you can hold in your hand to the face-melting album we’ve created, G.I. JOE fans worldwide are about to experience something truly revolutionary this summer. This project bridges nostalgia with innovation in ways that will leave the community speechless—prepare for a musical assault that would make Cobra Commander proud!”Shares Ben”BMac” MacCrae — Associate Brand Manager, Global Brand Development & Marketing at Hasbro.
Reigning Phoenix Music General Manager and Co-founder Gerardo Martinez comments: “It is a dream come true to be able to work on this amazing collaboration with my favorite, and one that happens to be one of the most iconic brands in the world: G.I.JOE! It is also a pleasure to work on this amazing project alongside some of my friends from Hasbro and be able to bring Cold Slither into reality in the most Heavy Metal way! Many of us have waited 40 years for this to happen but the wait is finally over. And a special thanks to Michael Charles Hill for writing the original COLD SLITHER episode back in 1985.”
“It’s programs like these that make Hasbro’s goal of creating Magic Moments truly come to life! What started out as a cult-classic episode from the 1985 series G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero has culminated into a fan program for the ages – inclusive of toys, comics, and of course, music. It could not have been made possible without amazing licensees like Reigning Phoenix Music who put their passion, expertise, and fandom into everything they create. We’re extremely excited for everyone to rock out to this single and we plan to reveal even more as we move closer to San Diego Comic Con. So, as the single echos, we hope… “you’ll be joining us soon!””says Alyse D’Antuono — Hasbro’s VP of Global Franchise Strategy & Management for Action Brands.
“Cold Slither” features bone-crushing riffs and an anthemic chorus, perfectly capturing the rebellious spirit of the ’80s and leading the charge in COLD SLITHER‘s resurgence. The infamous track, which initially captivated audiences as part of Cobra’s mind-control plot, is now reimagined with a compelling melody and legendary backstory, showcased in a newly released lyric video, animated by the legendary Costin Chioreanu.
Cold Slither burst onto the scene with their now classic single, “Cold Slither”, setting the stage for an even darker campaign with their upcoming album, “Cold Slither.” Helmed by the enigmatic Zartan and supported by his ruthless Dreadnoks—Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer—this band blends heavy metal ferocity with a sinister, anarchistic energy that upends the conventional music scene. Their signature sound unleashes a torrent of guttural guitars, boisterous bass, venomous vocals, and thunderous percussion, casting shadows across the musical landscape.
Each concert is a spectacle of chaos and brute force, with Cold Slither captivating hearts and demolishing instruments worldwide. Their music transcends generational divides, championing a dark new world order with each pulse-pounding beat. This band doesn’t just chase gold and platinum records; they aim to capture the minds and souls of their audience.
Conceived by Cobra Commander, Zartan and his Dreadnoks were transformed into Cold Slither, a heavy metal behemoth designed to captivate and influence America’s youth. With their cunning lyrics and compelling stage presence, they harness their music as a powerful tool for mass destruction and control.
Anticipation for their forthcoming album “Cold Slither” is building, with fans eager for a new chapter of anthems that promise not just to challenge but to change the industry. Prepare for an auditory onslaught that will resonate long after the lights fade. With Cold Slither, the revolution is not just televised, it’s an all-encompassing, reverberating force. Brace yourself to join their ranks and be changed. Their music doesn’t merely entertain; it indoctrinates.
New album from the multi-instrumentalist comes out April 11
Genre-bending one-man band SAMTAR is set to return with The Bog of Cosmic Delusions. The seventh full-length album by the multi-instrumentalist and songwriter comes fresh off the heels of the acoustic-centric A Second Chapter Made of Wood.
The Bog of Cosmic Delusions stands out as SAMTAR‘s heaviest album to date. With loud and crushing sounds, psychedelic influences, melodic guitars, and grand soaring vocals, this album is sure to satisfy rock and metal listeners alike.
SAMTAR has released three singles from the album. Stream “The Mire,” “Desert Creature” and “Refuse” on Spotify.
The Bog of Cosmic Delusions will be available on digital and limited-edition CD on April 11. Pre-order the album at samtarofficial.com
The Bog of Cosmic Delusions was written, performed, recorded, mixed, and mastered by SAMTAR.
Track-listing:
1. Desert Creature
2. Fickle Fortune
3. All You Ever Wanted
4. Speaker
5. Distant Voices
6. Refuse
7. Destiny is a Lie
8. The Whispers
9. Vicarious Voodoo
10. The Mire
11. Broken Sparrow
12. Drowning the Goddess
SAMTAR, a music-obsessed virtuoso, plies his craft with an unrepentant vigor and passion. Navigating the forests of genre, SAMTAR follows a path to sounds unknown by combining style and influence from all sources. SAMTAR chose to eschew chasing traditional mediums of promotion and instead focused on loving his life through creating music, exploring the outdoors, and translating the ethereal into song. The music SAMTAR creates is human and close, it has a momentum of its own and entreats the listener to be a traveler along the journey to their own peace.
SAMTAR grew up on System of a Down, Nine Inch Nails, The Black Dahlia Murder, Opeth, Sonata Arctica, Muse, Jimi Hendrix, Sublime, and Nirvana. Now he unites these divergent influences with driving bass lines, hook-heavy guitar melodies, powerful vocals, and a healthy dose of synthesizers. He notes some of his biggest vocal influences being from artists like Mike Patton (Mr. Bungle/Faith No More), and Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica). He also takes inspiration from sci-fi/fantasy films and literature.
Aug. 28 – Louisville, KY @ Iroquois Amphitheater Aug. 30 – Eau Claire, WI @ The Sonnentag Sep. 01 – Paw Paw, MI @ Warner Vineyards Sep. 04 – Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre Sep. 05 – Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom Sep. 06 – Rockford, IL @ Coronado Performing Arts Center Sep. 12 – Airway Heights, WA @ Spokane Live Sep. 13 – Idaho Falls, ID @ Mountain America Center Sep. 14 – Boise, ID @ Morrison Center Sep. 17 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Theater at Virgin Hotels Sep. 19 – Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theatre Sep. 20 – Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theatre Sep. 21 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel Entertainment Center Oct. 03 – Carteret, NJ @ Carteret PAC Oct. 04 – Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater
Vocals, guitars, drums, and bass: The basic elements of all things rock is what DANKO JONES, one of Canada’s most successful hard ‘n’ heavy exports, has represented consistently since their foundation in 1996. Constant radio airplay in leading rock countries around the world, the most dedicated fan bases any band could ever ask for, both at festivals and their jam-packed club shows plus several award considerations – incl. five Juno Award nominations (the Canadian “Grammy”) – throughout their career have cemented their leading role in the rock ‘n’ roll world over and over again.
DANKO JONES manages to unite not only rockers but also music lovers of genres far beyond hard rock and punk, with their rich catalogue consisting of eleven successfully electrifying studio albums so far. Their last nine (!) full-length albums even entered the official German and Swiss album chart (along with multiple other countries).
Now signed to PERCEPTION, a division of Reigning Phoenix Music, one of the fastest growing rock labels in the world, DANKO JONES’ yet-to-be-announced 12th offering was just finished under the watchful eyes of Juno and Grammy Award winning producer Eric Ratz (BILLY TALENT, BIG SUGAR, CANCER BATS etc.), and is tentatively due out in autumn 2025. It was also Ratz who was already involved in the creation process of one of the group’s very early offerings, the EP My Love Is Bold in 1999, as well as some of their most successful studio albums over the years.
Photo credit: Jon Usual | L-R: Rich Knox (drums), Danko Jones (vocals, guitars), John Calabrese (bass)
As mentioned earlier, DANKO JONES has also built a reputation as one of the greatest live bands around. Today, Danko Jones (vocals & guitar), bassist John Calabrese, and drummer Rich Knox are pleased to announce a European tour guiding them across the pond in late 2025, where fans will have a chance to see the first live performances of some of their brand-new songs complementing the band’s already hit-packed set list. All official dates can be found below. More to come.
DANKO comments: “We are excited to be on PERCEPTION. Counting down the days for everyone to listen to our 12th album, and to start playing the new tunes live. In the meantime, enjoy the first single – ‘What You Need’!”
Managing director Jochen Richert states: “Ever since the release of Born A Lion in 2001, DANKO JONES, his management and I have been on this journey together. Wow, nearly 25 years – almost half a lifetime. And yet, DANKO JONES still sounds as fresh and exciting as on day one. But this wild ride is far from being over, and therefore I’m incredibly proud to welcome DANKO JONES to PERCEPTION. I can say with the utmost conviction that the new songs are among the best this unique artist has ever written.”
Aptly titled “What You Need,” DANKO JONES’ PERCEPTION debut single will become available on all streaming platforms on April 4 – just in time for the outfit to kick-off their 2025 festival season at Paaspop (NL). The empowering track can be pre-saved here: https://dankojones.rpm.link/whatuneedPR
Vienna, Austria-based glam metal act Mädhouse has announced their brand new studio album, entitledPlead The Fifth, for a release on July 11, 2025 via ROAR! A music video for a first album harbinger, the band’s latest smashing single “Shotgun Rider”, is now premiering below.
“Plead The Fifth“will be available on CD, limited Vinyl (incl.signed photocard) and in Digital formats, the album pre-sale has just started at:
About their first single release “Shotgun Rider”, guitarist and songwriter Mikky Stixxsays: “There are friends. There are good friends. And there are friends who will stick with you through thick and thin. No matter what happens. Even if you end up in jail. – The devil may care, we run riot lock, stock and barrel!”
Mädhouse was formed in 2017 by Mikky Stixx. Their origins trace back to a spontaneous Hard N’ Heavy show, where 18 rock musicians gathered, leading to the band’s creation. Drawing inspiration from legendary acts like Mötley Crüe, Skid Row, and Ratt, Mädhouse blends the raw energy of classic glam metal with a modern hard rock edge. Their sound is unmistakable. Gritty riffs, anthemic choruses, and an unapologetic attitude that demand attention. Since their debut, the band has continuously evolved while staying true to their wild, rebellious spirit.
Their first album Money Talks Bullshit Walks (2019), introduced their high-energy style, followed by Bad Habits (2021), a more polished and aggressive follow-up. They further refined their sound with Down ‘N’ Dirty (2022), and now, their latest release, Plead The Fifth, slated for a release on July 11th through ROAR, pushes the boundaries even further with heavier riffs, bolder lyrics, and an electrifying presence!
Known for their explosive live performances and larger-than-life stage presence, Mädhouse continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The current line-up features Tommy Lovelace on vocals, Mikky Stixx and Thommy Black on guitars and backing vocals, Rickey Dee on bass, and Bobby B Bastard on drums. Together, they keep the spirit of glam metal alive, delivering high-octane rock that never backs down. With “Plead The Fifth”, they prove once again that glam metal is far from dead — it’s louder, bolder, and wilder than ever. Turn up the volume, join the madness, and let rock ‘n’ roll reign!
Plead The Fifth – Tracklist: 01 – Midnite Fever 02 – We Run Riot 03 – Bring On The Night 04 – Shotgun Rider 05 – Wicked Hearts 06 – Get A Grip 07 – Live And Tease 08 – It’s A Monster In My Head 09 – I’ll See You In My Dreams 10 – Mad To The Bone 11 – Loveplace 12 – I Die Alone 13 – You Got The Tail Down
Watch MISS LAVA’s lyric video for “Under A Black Sun” HERE.
Like distant moons spitting fire, Lisbon, Portugal-based rock unit MISSLAVA forged their new album Under A Black Sun. Carrying a darker and heavier emotional weight than their previous outings, the band’s fifth album is set to be released through Small Stone Recordings on April 25th, today unveiling the record’s first single and preorders.
“It’s a pretty intense record,” says singer Johnny Lee. “Our life experiences over the past years have made us delve into a darker matter. We explored new territories and had a blast creating this album.”
The release of Under A Black Sun will celebrate the band’s longevity, marking their 20th anniversary. It’s sonic flame with many cosmic swirls that urges to be unleashed live. “It has been a hell of a ride since we started rehearsing in a small studio in Lisbon back in 2005,” confirms guitarist K. Raffah. “Having this record come out twenty years later with a partner like Small Stone is the best thing we could wish for. Now we just need to get out there and play these songs live everywhere we can!”
This mystical rite of creation was the first record with drummer Pedro Gonçalves, bringing a heavier vibe to the band. Under A Black Sun was recorded and engineered once again with Miguel “Veg” Marques, who handled the band’s previous record, Doom Machine, produced by MISS LAVA and Marques, mixed by Steve Lehane, and mastered by Chris Goosman.
In advance of the record’s release, today the band unveils, Under A Black Sun’s title track. Comments Lee, “This song is about falling under a dark influence and the duality of this situation. For some, it’s total absence of light, but others manage to orbit around it.”
Watch MISS LAVA’s lyric video for “Under A Black Sun” HERE.
Under A Black Sun includes guest keys on “Blue Sky On Mars,” “Dark Tomb Nebula,” “Elara,” “Evil Eye Of The Witch,” and “Woe Warrior” by Miguel “Veg” Marques, guest vocals on “Elara” by Alexandra Quintas “Bebé,” and artwork by João Filipe.
The record will be released on CD and digital formats as well as limited vinyl. Find all preorders on the official Small Stone Recordings Bandcamp page HERE.
Under A Black Sun – Track Listing:
1. Dark Tomb Nebula
2. Neon Gods
3. Evil Eye Of A Witch
4. Chaos Strain
5. Woe Warrior
6. The Bends
7. Fear In Overdrive
8. I Drown
9. Blue Sky On Mars (Bonus Track – CD/Digi)
10. Elara
11. Under A Black Sun
MISS LAVA: Johnny Lee – vocals K. Raffah – guitars P. Gonçalves – drums Ricardo Ferreira – bass Hugo Jacinto – guitars
Over the years, the band has played live in clubs and festivals in the UK, Spain, Germany, and of course Portugal. MISS LAVA even made a one-off appearance at the legendary Whisky a Go-Go in Los Angeles. The band has shared stages with the likes Of Queens Of The Stone Age, Slash, Graveyard, Ufomammut, Greenleaf, Kyuss Lives!, Fu Manchu, Valient Thorr, Entombed, Truckfighters, and many more. The band, now a five-piece with two guitar players, has confirmed shows throughout the Spring and Summer months with more to be announced in the weeks to come.
MISS LAVA Live: 4/26/2025 Lav – Lisboa, PT w/ Graveyard 4/30/2025 A Cofradia – Vilanova De Arousa, ES 5/01/2025 Grc Amigos De Seixas – Seixas, PT 5/02/2025 Pub Transylvania – Vigo, ES 5/03/2025 O Bar Queiro – Mañón, ES 6/06/2025 Bafo De Baco – Loulé, PT 6/07/2025 TBA – Oliveira De Frades, PT 6/26/2025 Wurlitzer – Madrid, ES 6/28/2025 Chatnoir – Badajoz, ES 7/02/2025 Antwerp Music City – Antwerp, BE 7/03/2025 Pitchers – Düsseldorf, DE 7/04/2025 Rare Guitar – Münster, DE 7/05/2025 Ostpol – Dresden, DE 7/06/2025 Dirty & Dancing – Osnabrück, DE
Artwork • “The Predator“ Jimmy Lindbergh / Mother Misery
Swedish Melodic Heavy Rockers MOTHER MISERY release their brand new single” The Predator” today, March 7th!
The band informs about the new single “The Predator“: “‘The Predator’ was recorded in the same session as our last album ‘From Shadow To Ghost’. We felt the track had a different vibe to the rest of the songs and decided to keep it for a special release. When we invited David ‘DaKe’ Isberg, known for Blood Of Jupiter and as a founding member of Opeth, to add some of his deep growl to the song, it felt complete and even more special. The song has a driving riff, a mellow verse and a melodic chorus, along with a nice breakdown in the middle.”
LINE-UP: John Hermansen • Vocals, Guitar Emil Ström • Guitar, Lead-Guitar Stiff Hell • Bass Jimmy Lindbergh • Drums, Percussions
DISCOGRAPHY: 2004 • Grandiosity • Full-length 2006 • For The Crows • EP 2007 • All Eyes On You • Full-length 2010 • Standing Alone • Full-length 2015 • Deadication • EP 2018 • Megalodon • Full-length 2023 • From Shadow To Ghost • Full-length 2025 • The Predator • Single
Celebrating 15 Years of mountain moshing in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Armstrong MetalFest unveils its conquering 2025 lineup with BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and lots more from across Canada and beyond.
All tickets provide general admission and grant access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 11, 2025, until 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Free camping is included.
Tickets will be mailed starting after March 1st if you have chosen the “Ticket Mailed” option.
Hosted on July 11th and 12th in Armstrong, BC at the Hassen Arena, this year’s two days of moshing, headbanging, and camping is a very special one as festival council members comment:
“The band council worked hard on this year’s lineup. I am so excited to have the Browning back. They were amazing on stage. I have been wanting to see Born of Osiris play live for years. I love them, and now I get to see them in my own little town.” – Heather Valstar, Vice President of West Metal Entertainment Society
“I’m really excited about the diversity of this year’s line-up. The selection team has really put in the work. There’s sure to be something for everyone: a great mix of trusted favorites and new additions to your playlist for the rest of the year!” – Kate Kutzner, President of West Metal Entertainment Society
“This year’s festival is a work of art! I can’t believe we are on the 15th year already. Time flies when you’re setting up a festival full of crushing riffs, soaring vocals and down right nasty beats. Life rules, bring on the summer!” – Festival Co-Founder / General Manager – Jessie Valstar.
Headlining opening night, Friday, July 11th, Denver thrashers HAVOK are no strangers to the mosh pits, these veterans have unleashed five studio albums – Burn (2009), Time Is Up (2011), Unnatural Selection (2013), Conformicide (2017), V (2020) – and recently surprised fans this past November with the EP “New Eyes”. Music Video – Death Is An Illusion – https://youtu.be/hkUgz-DeFAo
Also supporting the Friday night stage, the Pacific Northwest’s Glyph (ft. members fromGatekeeper, Greyhawk, Hjelvik), which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album “Honor, Power, Glory” released in March 2024. Lyric Video – March of the Northern Clan (feat. Nathan Harrison) – https://youtu.be/htSyUb25wD4
Another highlight for Friday is the screaming heavy metal from Calgary’s speed demons Riot City, who bring forth theirsteel, spikes and leather! A youthful band that represent the new face of Canadian metal. An amalgam of ripping and hot heavy metal, created in pure and youthful madness, they’re bullet belts feature two full lengths “Electric Elite” (2022), “Burn The Night” (2019) and their latest live album “Live in Newcastle” (2023). Album Stream – Electric Elite – https://youtu.be/j3hA1nrG7M0
Saturday, July 12th will be headlined by international tour de force, progressive deathcore titans, Chicago’s BORN OF OSIRIS. The group is signed to Sumerian Records and has released seven full lengths and two EPs. Their album, A Higher Place, reached number 73 on the Billboard 200. Their second full-length album, The Discovery, debuted at 87 on the Billboard 200. The band unveiled their latest single “In Desolation” this past August. Visualizer – In Desolation – https://youtu.be/9OyMRRAq9fI
Also featured on Saturday is AMF alumni Kansas City’s THE BROWNING who will be unleashing their unique eclectic blend of electronicore and deathcore. This past November, they released their sixth album “OMNI” that features 10 powerful tracks, including collaborations with Nik Nocturnal and the eponymous song with THE DEFECT. Music Video – OMNI (feat. THE DEFECT) – https://youtu.be/VhyuduP3MdY
Performing for the first time at AMF and adding to the nostalgia of Saturday night, VIRVUM, progressive / technical death metal all the way from Zürich, Switzerland that many in Canada have been waiting a long time to witness. There’s no better place to see them along with the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies than at AMF 2025. The Cypher Supreme – https://youtu.be/9W9Kp38I9yY
Other to be treasured highlights of this year’s fest not to miss is Montreal, QC up and coming thrashers DROWNING IN BLOOD, who are notorious pit mongrels and have made quite a name for themselves in Eastern Canada. Vancouver’s GRAVEMASS,they might be a new band, but they feature some serious experienced metalheads from Zimmers Hole, West of Hell, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood and Revocation. Switzerland’s technical death/black metal Stortregn, they deliver a mix of charging riffs, blast beats and brutality that leaves the listener begging for more.
The Defect is an electronic rock/metal project created by husband and wife duo – Jonny McBee (The Browning) and Moon McBee. Their debut album “Death X Destiny” was recently released on Feb 7th, 2025 under record label FiXT. From the Salish lands of Spokane, WA, Hísemtuks Hími•n introduce their Indigenous melodic black metal of hard hitting riffs, fast paced drumming and a lot of melody. This project has strong roots in the Spokane Tribe/Nez Perce. Most songs are about Native American mythology, history, and folklore.
AMF 2025 Lineup: Havok (Denver, CO) Born of Osiris (Chicago, IL) Glyph (Seattle, WA) Riot City (Calgary, AB) The Browning (Kansas City, KS) Virvum (Zürich, Switzerland) Atavistia (Vancouver, BC) Drowning In Blood (Montreal, QC) Convictions (Fremont, OH) Scalding (Vancouver, BC) Syryn (Calgary, AB) Stortregn (Geneva, Switzerland) The Defect (Kansas City, KS) Gravemass (Vancouver, BC) Lover (Calgary, AB) Yegg (Vancouver Island, BC) Hísemtuks Hími•n (Spokane, WA) The Spruce Moose (Edmonton, AB) Volt (Fort McMurray, AB) Jisei (Vancouver, BC) Nomad (Okanagan Valley, BC) Planetkiller (Kelowna, BC) Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB) The Cadavor Dog (High River, AB) Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB) Valley of Despair (Edmonton, AB) Naitaka (Kelowna, BC) FloodGate (Kelowna, BC)
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