Perfect in time for a hot summer, on July 14, 2023, power metal act WINTERSTORM will release their upcoming, fifth studio album, entitled “Everfrost”, via AFM Records. It’s their first offering since 2016.
As the “Winter” stands for nordic viking and folk metal, the “Storm” for fast-paced power metal, combined with epic and orchestral metal facettes, WINTERSTORM shines in a new splendor as first album single releases have already proved. Following “To The End Of All Known” and just recently, a music video for their latest single “Future Times”, today, WINTERSTORM are proudly presenting us “The Phoenix Died (Remember)!
Watch the new WINTERSTORM video for “The Phoenix Died (Remember)” HERE
‘Remember’ reminds us that we should remember our past in order to learn for the future,” the band comments. “The text urges us to use our resources responsibly and to provide for future generations. In this context, one could also think of the sinking of Atlantis.”
It’s the melodic grandeur, that clearly marks the foreground of WINTERSTORM, reflected in heavily catchy choruses and colossal, polyphonic vocals. Striking elements of different metal styles merge with each other and get a completely new impression, that WINTERSTORM’s forthcoming record may be their most versatile and powerful album to date; one that does not have to hide behind proved genre colleagues such as Blind Guardian or Rhapsody Of Fire.
“Everfrost” will be coming out as CD Digipak, limited clear blue Vinyl and Boxset on July 14, 2023 via AFM Records, the pre-sale is available at THIS LOCATION!
Veteran harbingers of technical death metal CRYPTOPSY have officially signed with Nuclear Blast Records! The world’s heaviest label welcomes one of Canada’s most ferocious bands with plans to release their first album in over a decade later this year.
Commenting on the the signing, vocalist Matt McGachy states: “We are truly excited to have joined Nuclear Blast’s roster. Many of the bands we love and a bunch of our friends have released killer albums via Nuclear Blast. Back in 2012, we became an independent band. Now in 2023, we have decided to team up with one of the most influential metal labels. We are eager to be showcased alongside the world’s best metal acts and can’t wait to unveil the next era of Cryptopsy as a Nuclear Blast artist.”
Details of the CRYPTOPSY’s long-awaited 8th album and return to the forefront of death metal will be revealed in the coming months. Follow the band for additional updates.
Originally hailing from Montreal, CRYPTOPSY officially formed in 1992 and has since been anchored by long-time drummer extraordinaire Flo Mounier. Over the last 3 decades the band has become a revered and influential pinion in North America’s underground metal scene.
Groundbreaking albums like Blashphemy Made Flesh (1994), None So Vile (1996) and Once Was Not (2005), helped define the genre of technical death metal, while the band’s intense, earthshaking live shows garnered them a rapid following around the world. Now signed with Nuclear Blast, the band begins the next chapter of their legendary career, ready once again the break necks and pierce the eardrums of metal fans everywhere.
Due to originally announced headliners OCEANO along with VCTMS and INCITE unable to perform at this year’s 2023 TOLEDO DEATH FEST, the festival is proud to announce their replacements will be SIGNS OF THE SWARM as the new headliner along with CASKET ROBBERY and SUMMONER’S CIRCLE.
The festival organizer Keith Wampler issued the following statement:
“We have good news and we have bad news. The bad news is that Oceano and VCTMS are no longer able to perform at TOLEDO DEATHFEST 2023, This was very unexpected and is something that is out of our control. We ask that you please respect the Bands, Organizers, and Venue and understand that we are all still working to bring you a great day of heavy music. That being said, We do have some good news… We were able to get two amazing artists to replace Oceano and VCTMS at this year’s event! They are Signs of the Swarm and Casket Robbery. We really appreciate these bands jumping in on such short notice and are looking forward to seeing them perform! Thank you to everyone who has supported Toledo Deathfest and we will see you all June 3rd!”
Along with a statement from OCEANO:
“We deeply regret to inform you that we will be unable to perform at Toledo Deathfest. The band is currently undergoing personal and internal changes that have unfortunately hindered our ability to proceed with our plans. However, we are pleased to announce that the festival organizers have secured another exceptional band to take our place. We encourage you to continue supporting your local music scene and show your enthusiasm for all the talented bands performing. The lineup promises to be outstanding! We apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding. We hope to connect with you again in the near future!”
SIGNS OF THE SWARM
TOLEDO DEATH FEST will be stirring up the most extreme mosh pit to ever tornado Ohio and its surrounding states. This year’s event is being hosted on June 3rd in Toledo at Mainstreet Bar and will feature headliners, Signs of the Swarm alongside The Convalescence, Casket Robbery, Summoner’s Circle, and many more (full lineup below).
CASKET ROBBERY
Since its inception in 2009 by Keith Wampler, the frontman of The Convalescence and owner of The Legend Agency, the festival has showcased the talents of some of the American Midwest’s best up-and-coming metal bands. Past editions have seen past support from well-known artists such as Jungle Rot, Malevolent Creation, and The Breathing Process among many more. The festival has been an extreme metal pilgrimage for fans living in the surrounding states of Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia.
THE CONVALESCENCE
“I am very happy to be able to bring Toledo Deathfest back in 2023 with one of the most insane lineups we’ve ever had. This festival has come from being local bands at small venues to a two-stage festival featuring bands from around the country thanks to the incredible support of everyone who attends each year. Thank you to everyone who has supported Toledo Deathfest and I look forward to seeing everyone again on June 3rd!” adds Keith Wampler.
Highlights of the confirmed bands include headliners Signs of the Swarm with their slamming brutal chugs, to black metal-tinged frenzies and groove-driven downtempo bursts of aggression, the band cohesively captures a vile sound spreading across the genre’s various styles. The Convalescence is one of the USA’s unstoppable tour de force, touring Europe in 2022 with Chelsea Grin, and Carnifex plus an upcoming tour in Japan in 2023 with Exhumed and Defiled along with their latest single “No Survivors” ft. Scott Ian Lewis of Carnifex, that has fans demanding more and more.
Emerging from the darkest and most desolate areas of the Midwest, Casket Robbery creates its own signature style of death metal by infusing horror and occult themes. Their trademark huge riffs and unstoppable grooves create the unrelenting, brutally catchy, and eerie sound that only Casket Robbery is known for. Summoner’sCircle, hailing from Dandridge, TN, is a six-piece theatrical metal band that blends elements of doom, death, black and progressive metal into what they refer to as simply Epic Metal.
Toledo Death Fest 2023 Full Lineup: Signs of the Swarm (Pittsburgh, PA) The Convalescence (Toledo, OH) Casket Robbery (Madison, WI) Summoner’s Circle (Dandridge, TN) Hive (Chicago, IL) Carrion Vael (Richmond, IN) WoR (Raleigh, NC) Within Chaos (Fort Worth, TX) The D.O.O.D (Sarasota, FL) Squidhammer (Watertown, WI) Filth Spewer (South Bend, IN) Ignominious (Norwalk, OH) Cephlic (Toledo, OH) Death Hex (Toledo, OH) Pharohound (Fort Wayne, IN) Extinction Agenda (Ohio)
releases their long-awaited second album ”Arctic Atlas” today 12th of May.
After a few years of composing and producing, “Arctic Atlas” is finally available as a physical album or digital version. Averlanche is more than ready to introduce themselves as a newborn Symphonic Metal band from Finland with modern sounds and a completely new style.
The album will be released through JVR MUSIC GROUP record label. INVERSE RECORDS handles the digital promotion worldwide.
Arctic Atlas is an interesting album full of surprises. It starts in the freezing cold and then jumps straight into a burning theater. It is something you never expected from Averlanche.
Averlanche’s debut album “Life’s Phenomonen” was produced, recorded & mixed by the famous Finnish producer Hiili Hiilesmaa, best known for collaborating with bands like HIM, Sentenced, Apocalyptica and others. After a long collaboration, this time the band’s manager Joonas Rinne was chosen to be the producer. The album was recorded in different sessions during 2022-2023.
“Working with Averlanche has been an interesting journey through time. The album was being prepared for about a year, from the demo sessions to arrangement and production. The album was fun to mix and the collaboration with the band went well. Mika Jussila took care of the mastering process and a few days ago we received the finished product from Finnvox. The entire production team and the band are very satisfied with the results. I hope the listeners will take the album as their own from the first time listening.” – Joonas Rinne, producer
Tracklist:
-273.16 °C
In The Theater Of Fire
Killing Floor
Heartache Parade
Island Across
Polaris
She & The Dark Winter
Little Lotus
Black Butterflies´ Night
Arctica
Atlas Of Hearts
The recording process of ”Arctic Atlas” was a very different experience from recording the debut album. This album was recorded in different sessions and every session had its unique style.
“I enjoyed the recording process and I think we have all grown a lot during this past year. My favorite song on the album has been changing a lot. It really depends on my mood. At the moment I would say ”Island Across”! I love the atmosphere it creates. I would like to thank you so much for your patience and your support. Soon it will be rewarded. We hope to see you at the upcoming shows!” – Rebecca Spörl, vocals
Most of the songs on the album had already been composed before the release of debut album “Life’s Phenomenon”.
“The oldest songs of the album, ”In The Theater of Fire” and ”She & the Dark Winter”, we have already been playing live for a while. I’m We put a lot of time and effort into the production phase of our songs and tested and discussed many different possible arrangements to find the best versions. This time we did the recordings in multiple sessions in Oulu, instead of all at once like last time. This way we had more time to work on the details.” – Antti Kopra, keyboards
Vocals: Rebecca Spörl Keyboards: Antti Kopra Guitars: Otto Haalahti Drums: Henri Tenhunen
If you are serious about Heavy Metal, then most likely CRYSTAL VIPER doesn’t need an introduction. The band was founded by the singer and guitarist Marta Gabriel, and released its debut album in 2007. Since then, they toured in more than 15 countries, played in both tiny clubs and at huge open air festivals, released 8 studio albums, and a bunch of singles. So one thing is sure: they are one of the most hard working and most determined bands of their generation.
Their latest studio album entitled “The Cult” is still hot: it came out in 2021, followed by ‘The Last Command’ mini album in 2022, and brought CRYSTAL VIPER back to their roots: the traditional and pure Heavy Metal, full of epic melodies, classic riffs and guitar harmonies, ripping solos, and catchy refrains. The band couldn’t tour properly and promote the album due to the pandemic, yet instead of sitting and waiting for better times, they decided to record more material.
CRYSTAL VIPER ‘s brand new single is a scorching new recorded version of ‘In the Haunted Chapel’ released at the light of the band’s forthcoming tour and festival dates.
Band leader Marta Gabriel comments: “In The Haunted Chapel’ is naturally connected with our latest studio album ‘The Cult’, as it was inspired by the H.P. Lovecraft story – ‘The Haunter Of The Dark’, which was originally published in 1936. It’s actually a very special story, as it’s the last one Lovecraft wrote before his death. The composition itself is based on this shuffle rhythm which is a bit unusual for CRYSTAL VIPER, and the twin guitars are our humble tribute to legendary acts such as Thin Lizzy and Iron Maiden. This version is a little bit different than the one we released last year on “The Last Axeman” EP, because as I recently switched from rhythm guitar to bass, I decided to come up with different bass line, and of course we now have a new drummer on board, Jakub. Except that both Eric and Andy recorded different guitar solos.”
‘In the Haunted Chapel’ video release will be announced at a later date.
Tour dates: 27/05 – Czech Republic, Pasohlavky, Euro Bike Fest 01/06 – Germany, Gries, Iron Fest Open Air 02/06 – Germany, Freiburg, Artik 03/06 – Germany, Bielefeld, JZ Stricker 04/06 – Belgium, Bilzen, South Of Heaven 07/06 – Germany, Berlin, Cassiopeia 08/06 – Czech Republic, Frydek-Mistek, Hellpdays Festival 10/06 – Germany, Selb, Rockclub Nordbayern 14/07 – Sweden, Gavle, Gefle Metal Festival 12/08 – Belgium, Kortrijk, Alcatraz Festival 17/09 – Baltic Sea, Full Metal Cruise
Discography : The Curse of Crystal Viper (Album – 2007) Metal Nation ( Album – 2009) Legends ( Album – 2010) Crimen Excepta ( Album – 2012) Possession ( Album – 2013) Queen of the Witches ( Album – 2017) Tales of Fire and Ice ( Album – 2019) The Cult ( LISTENABLE Album – 2021) The Last Axeman (LISTENABLE Album- 2022)
German heavy metal icons HELLOWEEN will be inducted into the Metal Hall Of Fame! The ceremony will take place on stage on May 20th during the band’s performance at Terminal 5 in New York City.
“HELLOWEEN has helped establish the origins of the power metal genre,” says Metal Hall Of Fame Founder/CEO, Pat Gesualdo. “Power metal is such an important part of the heavy metal community as well. We are proud to induct HELLOWEEN into the Metal Hall Of Fame and have them to help represent the power metal genre and all its fans throughout the world.”
Comments HELLOWEEN founding guitarist, Michael Weikath, “It’s truly an honor to be inducted into the Metal Hall Of Fame! Being listed next to some of the biggest bands in rock and metal makes us very proud and is rewarding our work as ‘The Ambassadors Of Power And Melodic Metal’ for the last four decades.”
HELLOWEEN will return to US and Canadian stages beginning this weekend as part of their ongoing United Forces world tour alongside supporting special guests, HammerFall. The trek will commence on May 13th in Dallas, Texas and wind its way through a total of thirteen cities, the journey drawing to a close on June 3rd in San Francisco, California. Fans can expect an epic night of HELLOWEEN hits spanning the band’s legacy as well as tunes from their latest album, Helloween, marking the first time tracks from the album will be performed live for fans in the US and Canada.
Tickets are on sale now. Secure yours today at THIS LOCATION. See all confirmed dates below.
HELLOWEEN w/ HammerFall: 5/13/2023 The Bomb Factory – Dallas, TX 5/16/2023 Jannus Live – St. Petersburg, FL 5/18/2023 The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD 5/20/2023 Terminal 5 – New York, NY 5/21/2023 The Palladium – Worcester, MA 5/23/2023 History – Toronto, ON 5/24/2023 Royal Oak Music Hall – Royal Oak, MI 5/26/2023 The Riviera – Chicago, IL 5/27/2023 The Fillmore – Minneapolis, MN 5/30/2023 Ogden Theatre – Denver, CO 6/01/2023 Brooklyn Bowl – Las Vegas, NV 6/02/2023 YouTube Theater – Los Angeles, CA 6/03/2023 The Warfield – San Francisco, CA
Often referred to as the “Fathers Of Power Metal,” and known as one of the most influential European heavy metal bands, HELLOWEEN has released sixteen studio albums, three live albums, three EPs, and thirty singles. The band has fourteen gold and six platinum records and have sold over ten-million records worldwide. HELLOWEEN are known as one of the “Big Four” of the power metal genre, along with Blind Guardian, Sabaton, and DragonForce and has performed at festivals and concerts alongside Iron Maiden, David Lee Roth, KISS, Megadeth, and Guns N’ Roses, among countless others.
The Metal Hall Of Fame is dedicated to forever enshrining the iconic musicians and music industry executives responsible for making hard rock and heavy metal music what it is today. Their contribution to the genre is invaluable, and they continue to inspire fans throughout the world, from generation to generation.
The Annual Metal Hall Of Fame Celebrity Gala is held every January in California. As a non-profit organization, all proceeds from Metal Hall Of Fame events bring free music programs to help special needs children and wounded veterans. The Metal Hall Of Fame voting process is derived by fans of all genres of hard rock and heavy metal, along with the Metal Hall Of Fame voting committee. Fans can cast their vote all year round for their favorite artists, bands, producers, and music industry executives via the Metal Hall of Fame website: metalhalloffame.org.
Rhapsody Of Fire Glory For Salvation tour is underway! Plus guests Wind Rose and Seven Kingdoms
North American 2023 Tour – Dates and venues:
5/10 – Boston, MA – Sonia 5/11 – Quebec City, QC – Imperial Bell 5/12 – Montreal, QC – Studio TD 5/13 – Ottawa, ON – Brass Monkey 5/14 – Toronto, ON – The Garrison 5/16 – Joliet, IL – The Forge 5/17 – Minneapolis, MN – The Caboose 5/18 – Kansas City, MO – BLVD Nights 5/19 – Denver, CO – HQ 5/20 – Salt Lake City, UT – Soundwell 5/22 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon 5/23 – Vancouver, BC – Rickshaw Theater 5/24 – Portland, OR – Bossanova Ballroom 5/25 – San Francisco, CA – DNA Lounge 5/26 – San Diego, CA – Brick by Brick 5/27 – Santa Ana, CA – The Observatory 5/28 – Los Angeles, CA – 1720 5/29 – Mesa, AZ – Nile Theater 5/31 – Oklahoma City, OK – 89th St. Col. 6/01 – Dallas, TX – Granada Theater 6/02 – Austin, TX – Come And Take It Live! 6/03 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Live 6/05 – Orlando, FL – Conduit 6/06 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade (Hell) 6/07 – Greensboro, NC – Hangar 1819 6/08 – Philadelphia, PA – Warehouse on Watts 6/09 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theater
Look for new Lyric Video on Friday, May 12th for ‘Kreel’s Magic Staff’! A Teaser for the video is available HERE
It is with heavy hearts that KIX have announced their retirement from performing live. Lead singer, Steve Whiteman made the announcement from the stage at M3 Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion on May 7. Watch Steve’s announcement here.
KIX’s final performance ever is set for September 17 at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD. “KIX…Walkin’ Away, The Final Show” will see the original band members Steve Whiteman, Brian Forsythe, Ronnie Younkins, Jimmy Chalfant, and longtime bassist Mark Schenker take the stage for the very last time. The night will also include some very special guests. Tickets for the show are on sale now HERE.
“We wanted to do this show for our fans,” says Steve. “We owe a lot to them for their never-ending support over our long 45-year career. It was tempting to just fade away and stop booking gigs and ride off into the sunset, but we wanted our fans to be part of a local farewell show and give them a chance to see the band one last time.”
Read more in Steve’s interview with Metal Edge Magazine, who broke the news wide to the rock ‘n’ community on Monday May 8th.
KIX formed in Hagerstown, Maryland in 1978 and have enjoyed a lasting 45-year career as one of hard rock’s most notable groups. The band’s retirement signifies the end of an era as KIX was one of the last touring bands from the 80’s rock scene who were still at the top of their game. Highly respected by fans, peers, and critics, KIX is deservingly very proud of their long legacy.
In typical Steve style, he concludes, “I just want everyone to end up on their feet and celebrate all the good times we’ve had over the years. It’s a party and you are all invited!”
Los Angeles’ own True Heavy Metal Festival returns October 14-15, 2023 at the Garden Amphitheater in beautiful, sunny Garden Grove, CA! LA’s GATES OF METAL FESTIVAL III features a quality mix of Traditional, Thrash, Power, Speed, Death, Black, Doom, NOWTHM and Classic Heavy Metal bands on two stages!
The venue features a fan-friendly open air stage and a badass indoor stage, as well as metal merchants, vendors, five bars, and food options, all presented in an all ages European-style Heavy Metal festival.
Voted Best Concert Venue in 2018 by OC Weekly, the Garden Amphitheater is conveniently located near the Santa Ana, Long Beach and LAX Airports. If you’re looking for a destination Festival to plan around and attend, THIS IS IT!
The Fest will Feature Special Heavy Metal Performances by Legendary bands, including:
RIOT SADISTIC INTENT HAIL MARY (The Original Triple Axe Attack – Performing a Classic LEATHERWOLF Set) EVIL DEAD HEATHEN VICIOUS RUMORS SIGLOS (Featuring SIN QUIRIN formerly of Ministry) RESISTANCE IRONFLAME HELL FIRE ANGER AS ART HAUNT FUELED BY FIRE STYGIAN CROWN RUTHLESS BONDED BY BLOOD SABER ADAMANTIS INTRANCED
Polish death metal legends VADER – fresh from their successful “Revelation Of The Wicked – North American 2023” tour – have announced three more dates to the “An Act Of Darkness In Asia: 40th Years Anniversary Tour”, supported by HATE and THY DISEASE!
The added shows are in Kathmandu (Nepal) and Bengaluru & Mumbai in India close the list! This monster of a tour will start to roll in about two weeks!
Piotr “Peter” Wiwczarek shared: “VADERMANIAX !!! We are so happy to announce more shows on the upcoming “An Act Of Darkness” tour in Far East – organized in cooperation with Creative Music and Massive Music. We will visit Nepal and India at the end ot the trip.”
Catch polish death metal commando wreaking havoc at: 20.05 🇦🇪 DUBAI / EL Barrio 30.05 🇵🇭 Manila / Ynares Sports Arena Pasig 02.06 🇹🇭 Bangkok / MrFOX Live House 03.06 🇸🇬 Singapore / GR.iD 04.06 🇮🇩 Bekasi / NOXA Fest 09.06 🇯🇵 Tokyo / Shibuya WWW 10.06 🇯🇵 Nagoya / Holiday Next 11.06 🇯🇵 Osaka / Zeela 14.06 🇳🇵 Kathmandu / Purple Haze Rock 17.06 🇮🇳 Bengaluru / Fandom 18.06 🇮🇳 Mumbai / Anti-Social
In between the tour in Asia, VADER will hit Australia and New Zealand, adding even more diversity and dark, sinister atmosphere to these very special events.
International heavy metal act BAD AS have signed the worldwide deal with Wormholedeath Records/Warner for the release of their upcoming album “Fight The Demons”.
The band members are thrilled about the collaboration and have expressed their excitement about the new album, which promises to be an outstanding work of art. “Fight The Demons” contains 11 catchy rock/metal songs that will leave fans wanting more.
BAD AS is known for their ability to cross over different genres, combining hard rock, metal, and prog to create a unique sound that sets them apart from other bands. The collaboration of the singer John Jeff Touch with Alberto Rigoni and the rest of the band has given a new vibe and modern sensation to the band while maintaining the power and aggressiveness of their previous albums.
“We are excited to be signing with Wormholedeath Records/Warner for the release of our upcoming album ‘Fight The Demons’,” said the band in a statement. “We are proud of the new direction we’ve taken with this album and can’t wait to share it with our fans.”
“Fight The Demons” tracklist:
1. Fear 2. You Better Run 3. The War is On 4. Fight The Demons 5. Nemesis 6. Where Did The Love Go 7. Inside A Dream 8. Awake 9. As I Walk Away 10. The Answer 11. Free
BAD AS was formed in 2016 by world-renowned musicians, including rock vocalist Titta Tani, metal bassist Alberto Rigoni, guitarist Alessio “Lex” Tricarico, and drummer Denis “Denzy” Novello. Since then, they have released three albums and have caught the attention of journalists and promoters alike.
A special mention goes to the musical career of bassist Alberto Rigoni, who is also a composer and producer, worldwide known for his work as a solo artist and as a member of various metal bands such as Natural Born Machine, TwinSpirits, and Vivaldi Metal Project. He has released 12 solo albums spanning from progressive rock to fusion, featuring collaborations with notable musicians such as Jeff Scott Soto, Jordan Rudess, Marco Minnemann, etc. In addition, he has played live with various artists and recorded for international artists.
With the addition of new members, John Jeff Touch (winner of various European Artists Awards and collaborations with bands such as Deep Purple, VISION, S.I.N., COSMICRAY, Sanny X, etc) as new vocalist, and Marco Andreetto as the new drummer, BAD AS is ready to take their music to the next level. Their future plans include playing their music live to bigger audiences and festivals after the release of their new album.
“We are looking forward to hitting the road and playing our music for our fans,” said the band. “We hope to see you all out there.”
Line-up: John Jeff Touch – vocals Alberto Rigoni – bass Alessio ‘Lex’ Tricarico – guitar Marco Andreetto – drums
Earlier Releases: Crucified Society – Album, Released: March 17 2020 via SlipTrick Records, Mixed and Mastered by: Michele Guaitioli Midnight Curse – Album, Released: November 30th 2019 via RockShot Record, Mixed and Mastered by: Alberto Rigoni More Pain, More Gain – Album, Released: April 15th 2016 via Lion Music, Mixed and Mastered by: Federico Solazzo
Australian hard rockers BIG RED FIRE TRUCK have released their new single “Love Bite“. The song is from their upcoming EP Trouble InParadisewhich is out on August 4th, 2023.
The band comments: ” ‘Love Bite’ is a personal reflection of my experiences in the music industry and its comparison to the highs and lows of a place like Vegas. It’s easy to get caught up in the glittering facade of success and become fixated on the idea of making it big. I read an article recently that helped me come to realise that the industry is in fact a lot like a casino – a few win big, a few even win small and those that don’t are kicked to the curb and left to fend for themselves. This song is a reminder to myself and others to enjoy the journey, no matter what the outcome may be.”
About BIG RED FIRE TRUCK: BIG RED FIRE TRUCK began in 2016 as a project by Digby to write some fun heavy metal and hard rock songs and fulfil his need to hear new music in the style of his beloved bands. Taking inspiration from the likes of VAN HALEN, RECKLESS LOVE, THE DARKNESS, AEROSMITH, SUM 41, and CRAZY LIXX, the quartet pay homage to previous generations of hard rock while delivering their own distinctive character.
BIG RED FIRE TRUCK Are: Digby (Guitar and Lead Vocals) Ben Frank (Guitar) Pete Grant (Drums and Vocals) Nick Frazier (Bass)
Following their much acclaimed, self-titled 2017-debut, June 30, 2023 sees Australian heavy metal force NIGHT LEGION release their sophomore studio album, entitled “Fight Or Fall” via Massacre Records!
As first album single, “The Hounds Of Baskerville”, immediatly proves, “Fight Or Fall” is a no-nonsense return to fast and powerful heavy metal with screaming vocals, crushing guitars and hooks that remind you what great songwriting sounds like. This record is not a happy walk through a forest of elves – this is the battlefield where metal lives and soaring vocals invoke the spirits of what made metal the force it is today!
Give ear, a music video for NIGHT LEGION‘s new single is now streaming HERE!
“A classic horror inspired track slightly based around the Sherlock Holmes’ “The Hound of the Baskervilles”, however with a much more dark and brutal twist and in our own way,“ the band reveals. “It centralizes to a small town being terrorized by the local werewolves, with descriptive references.
Some people believe it, some people don’t and think it’s a legend we have devised ourselves until they themselves face the terror & wrath. The wolves in this case also represent the 5 of us – we are about to unleash a new record and we have the hunger to unleash on the live circuit!
It’s also inspired by how humanity’s own state of madness can conjure up such evil for the reason to terrorize, deceive and always live in fear. The reference to the chorus “Chase the hounds of Baskerville” really comes from how we as humans are intrigued to learn more about the mysteries of the world and anything that scares us. It’s a pretty bold, in your face, massive memorable chorus – it’s the run to the hills of the album, I’d say, hence being the first single.
It’s a heart stopper vocally & Stu’s guitar work adds another dimension – this song will play a movie in the listeners head.”
“Fight Or Fall” was produced by NIGHT LEGION guitarist Stu Marshall, and was mixed and mastered by Chris Themelco at Monolith Studios. Set to be released on June 30, 2023, the album pre-sale has just started via Massacre Records at THIS LOCATION!
“Fight Or Fall” track listing:
The Hounds Of Baskerville
Babylon Burns
Soaring Into The Black
Fight Or Fall
At World’s End
Beyond The Crimson Dawn
Harvest Of Sin
The Enemy
The Hand Of Death
NIGHT LEGION: Louie Gorgievski – Vocals Stu Marshall – Guitars Col Higginson – Guitars Glenn Williams – Bass Clay Tchakalian – Drums
Canadian sci-fi metal innovators VOIVOD are continuing their 40th Anniversary touring cycle, kicking off their US leg next week! The US dates start on May 9th in Asheville, NC and wrap on May 23rd in Pensacola, FL. Most dates will see support from enigmatic experimental outfit, IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT. Full dates below. Tickets are available HERE.
VOIVOD – USA Tour w/ Imperial Triumphant: May 9, 2023 – Asheville, NC – Orange Peel * no Imperial Triumphant May 10, 2023 – Virginia Beach, VA – Elevation 27 * no Imperial Triumphant May 11, 2023 – Philadelphia, PA – Underground Arts May 12, 2023 – New York, NY – The Bowery May 13, 2023 – Baltimore, MD – Soundstage May 14, 2023 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground May 16, 2023 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL – Revolution Live May 17, 2023 – Tampa, FL – Floridian May 18, 2023 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage May 19, 2023 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues May 20, 2023 – Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall May 21, 2023 – Austin, TX – Come and Take It May 23, 2023 – Pensacola, FL – The Vinyl Music Hall * no Imperial Triumphant
VOIVOD recently announced a special Anniversary studio album entitled Morgöth Tales, to be released on July 21st, 2023 via Century Media Records.
Once more recorded and mixed by Francis Perron at RadicArt Studio, mastered by Maor Appelbaum and produced by VOIVOD, Morgöth Tales includes fresh studio (re-)recordings by the band’s current line-up of 9 especially selected, not-so-obvious picks from the band’s hyper-classy and extremely diverse back catalogue (between 1984 and 2003) as well as a brand-new song in the album’s title-track, “Morgöth Tales”.
Massacre and Narcotic Wasteland are excited to announce that they will be trekking north for the Canadian Madness Tour this summer! The tour kicks off on Thursday, August 17th, 2023 at Piranha Bar in Montreal QC, followed by The Rockpile in Toronto ON on Friday, August 18th, and finally, the Brass Monkey in Ottawa ON on Saturday, August 19th.
As you may already know, Massacre and Narcotic Wasteland are two of the most influential and talented bands in the metal scene today. They have been thrilling audiences all over the world with their intense and powerful performances, and now they are coming to Canada to give their fans an unforgettable experience.
The Canadian Madness Tour promises to be an epic night of metal and mayhem, showcasing the best of Massacre and Narcotic Wasteland‘s music. You can expect to hear some of their biggest hits, as well as some new and exciting material that will leave you wanting more.
Tickets for the tour went on sale Friday, April 28th, 2023 at 11 am. Don’t miss your chance to see these two legendary bands in action. Get your tickets early and secure your spot for what is sure to be one of the most memorable tours of the year.
Tour Dates:
8/17/23 – Piranha Bar – Montreal, QC – Ticket Info
8/18/23 – The Rockpile – Toronto, ON – Ticket Info
Posted in Heavy Metal on April 28, 2023 by Metal Odyssey
The brainchild of Canadian guitarist Dave Bergeron, melodic metal solo project STYGIANMASK has released their debut single. The new track, “Drown Alone”, features vocals from Witherfall and Sanctuary frontman Joseph Michael, alongside Bergeron on guitar and Eddy Levitsky (The Anchoret) on bass. The song is an evocative marriage of power/death-metal virtuosity and bombast with the soaring symphonics of Michael’s performance, who also co-wrote the track alongside Bergeron.
Speaking about working with Michael and Levitsky on his first single, Dave Bergeron shares, ”It was really easy working with Joseph and Eddy on this song, they are both musicians that I look up to and we all pushed in the same direction to make the perfect first single to start this journey.”
Earthshine is the second single to be released from the upcoming new album Between The Day & I of modern post-metal outfit ATLASES, which will be released on June 2nd via Lifeforce Records.
“Take the walk through a mysterious and ethereal path through the occasional fragile sides of one’s burden – which lie amidst the inner mixture within, consisting of clarity and chaos
The fact that ATLASES from Finland sound different has its reasons. Besides the “normal instrumentation” of a metal band, the musicians from Pori also work with electronic drum pads and keyboards. Both are not just additional accessories, but an integral part of the musical self-image of this Nordic group. In addition, there is the creative demand to go further aesthetically and sonically than is usual in modern post-metal. In the cinematic soundscapes ATLASES are creating you can lose yourself completely.
The third album “Between The Day & I” pushes this approach to the extreme. The dualism of beautiful, atmospheric euphony and abrupt brute force works fantastically and provides lasting impressions. The sextet from Pori sets tension arcs time and again, which lead deeper and deeper into a maelstrom of rapture, melancholy and emotional discharge. On the follow-up to their 2020 LIFEFORCE RECORDS debut, “Woe Portrait”, ATLASES present themselves as resourceful songwriters who cultivate powerful contrasts beyond the usual conventions of post-metal and thus stand out.
With “Between The Day & I”, the Finns prove that modern post-metal can still be developed further, if the right attitude and the necessary daring meet forward-thinking creativity and an elevated level of ambition.
The fact that the cover motif of the new ATLASES album evokes associations in the direction of the MASTODON classic “Remission” or “White Pony” of the mighty DEFTONES is a coincidence, but on closer reflection it fits pretty well.
Eyelids of the New Dawn 4:35 Singulars 3:30 Silent Threads 4:11 Earthshine 4:51 Mosaic of Silence 4:14 Save Room 5:40 Intermission 1:59 Versus 2:41 Imperial Dark 3:33 Ties to Distance 7:11
Here are three examples of an album cover showing a woman’s face behind a see-through cloth. I’m certain there’s more out there. I believe this idea of an album cover needs to retire. For good. Please. Stop.
The Rolling Stones – Goats Head Soup (1973)
I’ll give The Rolling Stones a pass due to my thinking this was the first time this idea was used for an album cover. I could be wrong. Besides, it’s The Rolling Stones.
Scorpions – Rock Believer (2022)
C’mon Scorpions. This album cover of RockBeliever is so bad it’s the reason why I didn’t buy the physical CD. I didn’t want to see it laying around my other CDs that have quality album art. Besides, I listen to Rock Believer on Spotify.
Halestorm – Back From The Dead (2022)
I’ll bet that Halestorm and Scorpions never expected to have nearly the same album cover released in the SAME YEAR!! Some people might say that’s glass covering over the face of Lzzy Hale. Is it Lzzy Hale though? Hard to tell maybe, with the violent screaming face. Anyways, I believe this is cloth covering her face. I always felt the Halestorm debut album cover art from 2009 was bizarre and cringey; yet this album cover takes the prize for unoriginal disaster.
Thank you for reading my semi-useless rant. Please feel free to comment! Metal Be Thy Name. – Stone
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
Metal Odyssey's Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Hall of Fame! These Are The Rock And METAL Legends Wrongfully Ignored By "The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame"
Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog 
You must be logged in to post a comment.