Finland’s melodic dark metal masters, SOULFALLEN, return with a second single from their long-awaited upcoming fourth album, set to be released later this year. Flesh Unearthed is the shortest track of the album, representing its faster and more aggressive side.
”Flesh Unearthed, or FU for short, was one of the first songs we composed for the new album. It is a blasting assault that grips its listener from start to finish with its tight riffs and haunting melodies. We can’t wait to unleash this beast live,” accounts vocalist-frontman Kai Leikola.
Swedish melodic metal supergroup CYHRA (Featuring AMARANTHE Co-Founder Jake E and current THE HALO EFFECT, KAMELOT, THE CROWN, and SUBURBAN TRIBE members) unveil an epic modern metal offering in their empowering new single “Bleed With Pride“. As CYHRA celebrates their 10th anniversary year, the new release arrives alongside the announcement of the band’s fourth studio albumRequiem For A Pipe Dream scheduled to be released on June 5th, 2026, via Reigning Phoenix Music.
CYHRA frontman Jake E comments,“‘Bleed With Pride’ is about learning to trust your scars instead of hiding them. For a long time, I carried the weight of the past like something that needed to be buried. But the truth is, those wounds kept me honest. They became my compass. This song is about the internal war, the silent thunder you fight inside and choosing not to let it drown you. If I’m going to bleed, it’s not out of shame anymore. It’s with pride. Because every scar means I survived, I rebuilt, and I kept burning.”
“Bleed With Pride” aptly encompasses the central themes of the forthcoming Requiem For A Pipe Dream. This rhythmic track, fueled by a driving momentum, delivers a resonating effect alongside the emotive lyrics. CYHRA‘s high-octane sound is captivating and energizing; providing encouragement and strength to keep progressing despite past difficulties.
L-R: Jake E (vocals, keys), Marcus Sunesson (guitars), Jesper Strömblad (bass, guitars), Euge Valovirta (guitars, bass), Alex Landenburg (drums)
Requiem For A Pipe Dream – Track Listing: 1. Bleed With Pride 2. Superman 3. Miss Me When I’m Gone 4. Ghostbound 5. In The Center Of A Miracle 6. Skin From Bones 7. Ghost I’m Meant To Be 8. Mark Of My Sins 9. Venom In Me 10. Box With Spirits 11. Hold Your Fire feat. Samy Elbanna [Bonus Track]
A new chapter has begun: Finnish melodic metal force ARION return with a bang, launching the album cycle for their upcoming fifth studio album with the brand-new single “Hurricane”, released via RPM. The track is a fast-paced, modern melodic metal anthem that stands out with its theme of cathartic empowerment, a massive chorus hook, and the band’s signature infectious riffing.
Driven by an arena-ready chorus and sharp songwriting, “Hurricane” initially feels like a classic hit in the making. Yet ARION add a clever twist, breaking away from predictable structures and injecting a fresh, modern edge that keeps listeners on their toes. More singles will follow throughout 2026, with the full album scheduled for release at the beginning of 2027, following their European tour with GLORYHAMMER and MAJESTICA in October 2026.
Guitarist Iivo Kaipainen comments:“We are happy to come back with this new fantastic single called ‘Hurricane’! The song features an especially massive and catchy chorus and infectious main riff, which are both long time trademarks for the band. Sounds like a traditional hit format song? WRONG! There’s a cool modern twist waiting to break the linear true and tried hit song formula that will definitely catch every listener off guard. See for yourself!”
[Photo Credit: Ville Juurikkala]
About ARION:
ARION are among Finland’s most exciting modern melodic metal exports. Known for their high-impact songwriting, technical skill and engaging stage presence, the band continues to bridge the gap between classic and modern metal.
Over the years, ARION have toured extensively across Europe and Japan with acts such as DREAM THEATER, GLORYHAMMER, BATTLE BEAST, BLOODBOUND and SONATA ARCTICA. They have also collaborated with renowned vocalists including Elize Ryd (AMARANTHE), Noora Louhimo and Melissa Bonny (AD INFINITUM / KAMELOT).
With tens of millions of streams to their name, including the standout track At The Break Of Dawn surpassing 20 million streams and achieving gold status in Finland, ARION have firmly established themselves as one of the most important new wave metal export acts from the country. Their continued evolution and international presence underline their growing importance in the global metal scene.
Swedish melodic metal force PRIME CREATION have unveiled a brand new lyric video for their first single, “Galactic Rebirth”, taken from their upcoming studio album Souls Of The Fallen, set for release on June 26, 2026 via ROAR – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music. Pre-orders have just started at: https://primecreation.rpm.link/soulsPR
With “Galactic Rebirth,” the band delivers a powerful first glimpse into the album’s cinematic and emotionally charged direction, combining soaring melodies with relentless heaviness. The track dives deep into themes of cosmic conflict and existential struggle, as the band unveils:
“The song is about a cosmic war fought at the edge of extinction, where a dying sun and endless darkness set the stage for a final stand. It follows celestial warriors bound together by fate, legend, and shared sacrifice as they face overwhelming odds. Themes of fear, pain, and loss run through the battle, but so does defiance and unity. Overall, it’s about rising together to confront annihilation and leaving a mark through courage, even if victory comes at a cost.”
Souls Of The Fallen – Tracklist: 1. Galactic Rebirth 2. Ghosts 3. Blood Harvest 4. Souls of the Fallen 5. Alliance 6. Lost Legacy 7. Legends Never Die 8. Ashes of Trust
Formed in Sweden in 2015, PRIME CREATION quickly established themselves as a driving force in modern melodic heavy metal. Rising from the ashes of the power metal band Morifade, the group brought together skilled and experienced musicians with a clear vision: combine technical precision with powerful songwriting and a contemporary edge.
Following their self-titled debut in 2016 and the critically acclaimed Tears Of Rage (2019), the band continued to evolve, culminating in Tell Freedom I Said Hello (2023), which gained strong international attention. Known for their dynamic live presence, PRIME CREATION have toured across Europe and shared stages with acts like Masterplan and appeared at festivals alongside Europe and W.A.S.P.
With Souls Of The Fallen, produced by Niels Nielsen (Ghost, In Flames), the band take another decisive step forward, pushing their sound into darker, more progressive territory while staying true to their melodic roots.
PRIME CREATION: Esa Englund – Vocals Robin Arnell – Lead Guitar Rami Tainamo – Rhythm Guitar Henrik Weimedal – Bass Guitar Kim Arnell – Drums
Swedish modern power metal force METALITE have officially signed a worldwide contract with PERCEPTION – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music, marking a major new milestone in the band’s rapidly ascending career!
Following the signing, the band have unleashed their brand-new single, “Our Time Has Come”, a high-energy anthem that showcases everything fans have come to expect from METALITE: massive melodies, driving riffs, and a futuristic edge wrapped in razor-sharp production.
Guitarist, producer, songwriter and founder Edwin Premberg comments: “We’re beyond excited to finally share our new single Our Time Has Come with you. This song kicks off a powerful new chapter for METALITE and marks the beginning of our upcoming concept album ‘Discovery’ where the story continues on a new planet and humanity begins a new life. It’s a classic METALITE track – full of high energy, soaring melodies, and that unmistakable METALITE sound. This is only the beginning, and we can’t wait to take this journey together with you”.
With its soaring vocal lines, pounding rhythm section, and cinematic synth layers, “Our Time Has Come” captures METALITE at full throttle. The track blends melodic precision with modern production punch, delivering an arena ready chorus that’s impossible to ignore.
Formed in 2015 by guitarist Edwin Premberg and vocalist Emma Bensing, the band quickly gained recognition for its fresh and modern take on melodic metal and their 2017 debut album Heroes in Time set the stage for METALITE’s rise.
In 2019, the band entered a new era with Biomechanicals, marking the debut of vocalist Erica Ohlsson. Their evolution continued with A Virtual World in 2021, an album that expanded on their sci-fi themes while delivering massive soundscapes and powerful melodies.
With Expedition One (2024), METALITE embarked on their most ambitious project to date. A visionary concept album set in the year 2055, it tells the story of a renegade team searching for a new world, exploring themes of human evolution, technology, and survival.
In 2024, the band welcomed drummer Erik Junttila to the lineup, bringing new energy and power to their sound. His premiere gig with the band took place in Linköping at the beginning of 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in METALITE’s journey.
FREEDOM OR DEATH! Kataklysm heads back to Europe & UK for a massive headlining tour across 32 cities! Accompanied by Vader and Blood Red Throne, you’ll be served some of the most explosive extreme metal nights!
18.02. 🇫🇷 FR Paris @ La Machine Du Moulin Rouge 20.02. 🇬🇧 UK Wolverhampton @ KK’s Steel Mill 21.02. 🇬🇧 UK Glasgow @ Slay 22.02. 🇬🇧 UK Manchester @ Academy 2 23.02. 🇬🇧 UK London @ O2 Academy Islington 25.02. 🇫🇷 FR Rennes @ L’Etage 26.02. 🇫🇷 FR Toulouse @ Le Bikini 27.02. 🇪🇸 ES Madrid @ Sala Mon 28.02. 🇪🇸 ES Pamplona @ Sala Totem 01.03. 🇪🇸 ES Barcelona @ Razzmatazz 2 03.03.🇨🇭CH Geneve @ L’Usine 04.03. 🇮🇹 IT Milan @ Legend Club 05.03. 🇸🇮 SI Ljubljana @ Kino Siska 06.03. 🇨🇿 CZ Brno @ Fleda 07.03. 🇸🇰 SK Kosice @ Colloseum 08.03. 🇭🇺 HU Budapest @ Barba Negra Blue Stage 10.03. 🇦🇹 AT Vienna @ Simmcity 11.03. 🇩🇪 DE Munich @ Backstage Werk 12.03. 🇩🇪 DE Heidelberg @ Halle 02 13.03. 🇩🇪 DE Memmingen @ Kaminwerk 14.03. 🇨🇭 CH Pratteln @ Z7 15.03. 🇩🇪 DE Trier @ Forum 17.03. 🇧🇪 BE Antwerp @ Trix 18.03. 🇩🇪 DE Hamburg @ Markthalle 19.03. 🇩🇰 DK Copenhagen @ Pumpehuset 20.03. 🇩🇪 DE Berlin @ Festsaal Kreuzberg 21.03. 🇩🇪 DE Leipzig @ Hellraiser 22.03. 🇩🇪 DE Bochum @ Zeche 24.03. 🇩🇪 DE Frankfurt @ Batschkapp 25.03. 🇩🇪 DE Braunschweig @ Westand 26.03. 🇳🇱 NL Leiden @ Gebr. De Nobel 27.03. 🇩🇪 DE Bamberg @ Brose Arena
Italian melodic power metal force ALTERIUM is set to return with the brand-new EP Stormrage, further cementing the band’s place among the most promising names in the new wave of European power metal.
Stormrage, a powerful chapter that bridges their acclaimed debut Of War And Flames and their upcoming full-length work, will be released on July 25, 2025.
The EP will be available in exclusive physical formats:
Digipack CD, limited to 500 hand-numbered copies, featuring two bonus tracks
7” Vinyl, released in three colored variants, each limited to 100 hand-numbered copies
1. Stormrage 2. Sui 3. Paradise Lost (Symphony X cover) – available only on the CD version 4. Of War and Flames (Orchestral version) – available only on the CD version
To support the release, ALTERIUM will embark on a series of select shows and festivals across Europe and will make their highly anticipated US debut at the ProgPower festival in Atlanta.
This new chapter sees the band sharpening their songwriting and delivering a fresh burst of adrenaline that both longtime fans and newcomers will appreciate. Epic, melodic, and unrelentingly driven,Stormragereaffirms ALTERIUM’s mission to carry the torch of European metal with pride and power.
Featuring two brand-new singles, Stormrage continues the band’s tradition of blending agile riffs, epic atmospheres, and battle-hardened energy. With soaring vocals, blazing guitar work, and a heroic spirit running through the music, the EP captures the essence of classic power metal while pushing ALTERIUM’s sound into exciting new territory.
Upcoming Shows:
28/6/2025 – Odyssea Rock Fusion Fest (Romania) 05/7/2025 – Spluga Celtica – Campodolcino (Italy) 12/7/2025 – Festa dell’Unicorno – Vinci (Italy) 29/8/2025 – Forest Metal Festival – Bad Wörishofen (Germany) 04/9/2025 – ProgPower USA – Atlanta (USA)
Following the success of their debut single “The Enemy Within”, Finnish melodic heavy metal band Invincia returns with a vengeance. Their new single, “Act of Insurrection”, is out now on all digital platforms, accompanied by a powerful lyric video that dives deep into the rebellious spirit of the track.
“Act of Insurrection“ channels the adrenaline and fire of classic heavy metal, echoing the energy of Judas Priest, the galloping power of Iron Maiden, and the epic, melodic weight of Helloween and Savatage.
The track is the second release from their upcoming self-produced EP The Enemy Within, due out June 6, 2025. Once again, the band collaborated with Erik Mårtensson (Eclipse) at Mass Destruction Production for mixing and mastering, bringing top-tier clarity and punch to Invincia’s signature sound.
With two singles now out and more on the way, Invincia is proving themselves a rising force in melodic heavy metal, one that blends old-school power with fresh energy and an uncompromising DIY spirit.
INVINCIA are: Kenneth Nylund – Lead Vocals Joel Karlsson – Guitar Alexander Södergård – Guitar Jonas Öman – Bass Mikael Ahlholm – Drums
Invincia, the thrilling new force in melodic heavy metal from Vaasa, Finland, is proud to announce the release of their debut single, “The Enemy Within.” This powerful track is the first to be unveiled from their upcoming EP The Enemy Within, set for release on June 6, 2025. Accompanying the single is a gripping music video that visually captures the song’s intense themes and Metal energy.
“The Enemy Within” is a potent introduction to Invincia sound, which expertly combines heavy guitar riffs with melodic overtones, creating an immersive listening experience that is 100% for fans of bands like Helloween, Dio and Savatage.
Joel Karlsson, the band’s founder and lead guitarist, said about the release, “It’s a dark, powerful metal song about confronting your inner self and not giving in to fear.”
“The Enemy Within” is expertly mixed and mastered by the renowned musician and producer Erik Mårtensson / Mass Destruction Production (Eclipse), with his signature production style that ensures the track as top-tier listening experience that truly brings Invincia music to life.
Fans of melodic heavy metal are invited to experience the intensity of “The Enemy Within” and connect with Invincia through their official social media channels. Follow the band for the latest news, exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and upcoming announcements regarding their EP release and future live performances.
Join the crusade and become part of Invincia growing metal community.
INVINCIA are: Kenneth Nylund – Lead Vocals Joel Karlsson – Guitar Alexander Södergård – Guitar Jonas Öman – Bass Mikael Ahlholm – Drums
Mark your calendars! We’re thrilled to share a massive update with more festivals and exclusive shows across Europe. It’s going to be an incredible summer and we can’t wait to see as many of you as possible!
25.07.25 SI Tolmin -Tolminator Festival 26.07.25 AT Vienna – Metal Fields 29.07.25 DE Nürnberg – Hirsch 30.07.25 DE Stuttgart – Wizemann 31.07.25 DE Dortmund – Dortmund Deathfest *warm up 01.08.25 DE Rojtzschjora – Full Rewind Festival 02.08.25 RO Rasnov – Rockstad Extremefest 07.08.25 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 08.08.25 UK Derbyshire – Bloodstock Festival 09.08.25 CZ Jaromer – Brutal Assault Festival 10.08.25 DE Munich – Backstage 12.08.25 DE Karlsruhe – Substage 14.08.25 FR Carhaix – Motocultor Festival 15.08.25 CH Cudrefin – Rock the Lakes Festival 16.08.25 DE Sulingen – Reload Festival 17.08.25 NL Eindhoven – Dynamo Festival
Following the recent, previously released single, entitled “Wings of Twilight”, featuring a guest performance of AD INFINITUM singer Melissa Bonny, Finland’s melodic metal frontrunners ARION are now sharing their brand new and powerful track “Wildfire”!
After skyrocketing out of nowhere to the public eye as teenagers with the Finnish Eurovision qualification program UMK and now three critically acclaimed studio albums under their belt, ARION seem to be gearing up for a new full-length, to be released in the hopefully not so distant future.
Wildfire” was written by ARION guitarist Iivo Kaipainen, and was produced by Matias Kupiainen (Stratovarius). Listen to the song, out now on all digital providers at: https://arion.bfan.link/wildfire
Says livo about the new track: “Wildfire, the first song I wrote for the new album is also one of my favorites from the new album. The frighteningly infectious main riff with an equally catchy chorus, which is what everybody listening to the song points out, are the building blocks for a song that’s as metal as metal can be. Wildfire made its live debut at the world-renowned 70,000 tons of metal cruise proving to be exactly the most fun and the most insane live song we can think of!”
The band’s latest video for “Wings of Twilight” is streaming HERE:
Since their formation in 2011, ARION stood out due to their incredible musicianship and songwriting craft. After their headstart, they released three studio albums which gained impressive streaming numbers and toured with bands like Dream Theater, Gloryhammer, Battle Beast and Sonata Arctica to name just a few. Their latest single releases mark a new chapter in the exciting story of ARION; so better watch out for more news and album details to follow soon!
The melodic metal band Justice Theory from Finland releases a new song “Fireborn“. 2012 founded thrash metal band has evolved towards a more melodic sound.
Guitar player and vocalist Valtteri Saharinen backgrounds the single: “‘Fireborn’ is an anthem for all individuals who have been oppressed or pulled down by nonbelievers. They want You to believe that You are nothing and all Your attempts to succeed in Life Will ultimately fail. That’s not true…
I wanted to tell You By this Song that no matter what They say it’s YOU in The end WHO decides what You can achieve in Your Life. No One can tame The Flame inside You – that makes You Fireborn.”
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
While Swedish modern melodic metal outfit, dEMOTIONAL, is currently gearing up to reissue their latest, much acclaimed masterpiece album Scandinavian Aftermath, due out on May 26, 2023 via AFM Records. Today, the band has shared a brand new lyric video for the song “Boiling Point”: HERE
With four albums under their belt and following their recent, worldwide signing with AFM Records, the Hamburg-based powerhouse label is proud to present the band’s self-released 2021-offering, Scandinavian Aftermath, to a global audience. With over 15 million streams on Spotify alone and a constant listener base of 100k, various live shows, tours and radio airplays, dEMOTIONAL have aready proved to be one of the most exciting, up-and-coming bands of their genre and now they are ready more than ever to conquer the world!
The quintet from Gothenburg, that already became an anchor in the Swedish metal scene, has caused a stir with the release of their much-acclaimed debut album, STATE: IN DENIAL, in 2013. And they have not been slowing down since. Their second album TARASSIS got them a spot as main support on DEAD BY APRIL’s European tour and also their own headline shows around the world.
Scandinavian Aftermath will be reissued as a Deluxe Edition on May 26, 2023, visit the AFM Records shop at THIS LOCATION!
Scandinavian Aftermath – track listing:
Scandinavian Aftermath
Bärsärk
My Own Enemy
My Heart (Feat. Matt Guillory & Jenny Fagerstrand)
S.O.A.K
Cornered
All That I Knew
Young Wolves
Boiling Point
Typhoon
Northern Star
Fear Of Success
Don’t Wake Me Up
Close Yet Far
Lost in This City
Everbound
SINGLES/ VIDEOS: dEMOTIONAL – Boiling Point (2023) watch HERE dEMOTIONAL – Lost In This City watch HERE dEMOTIONAL – Bärsärk watch HERE dEMOTIONAL – Scandinavian Aftermath watch HERE
May 26, 2023 sees Swedish modern melodic metal outfit dEMOTIONAL reissue their latest, much acclaimed masterpiece Scandinavian Aftermath. With four albums under their belt and following their recent, worldwide signing with AFM Records, the Hamburg-based powerhouse label is proud to present the band’s self-released 2021-offering, Scandinavian Aftermath, to a global audience. With over 15 million streams on Spotify alone and a constant listener base of 100k, various live shows, tours and radio airplays, dEMOTIONAL have aready proved to be one of the most exciting, up-and-coming bands of their genre, now they are ready more than ever to conquer the world
The quintet from Gothenburg, that already became an anchor in the Swedish metal scene, has caused a stir with the release of their much-acclaimed debut album, STATE: IN DENIAL, in 2013. And they have not been slowing down since. Their second album TARASSIS got them a spot as main support on DEAD BY APRIL’s European tour and also their own headline shows around the world.
Scandinavian Aftermath will be reissued as a Deluxe Edition on May 26, 2023, visit the AFM Records shop at THIS LOCATION!
The brand new video for “Lost In This City” is now premiering HERE
“Kintsugi is about the ancient Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by filling cracks with precious metals. We too can transform all ‘cracks’ – which represent both our weaknesses and the difficult times we sometimes are forced to face – into something that makes us stronger and more unique, without necessarily having to show fake perfection to the rest of the world. We are all human beings and, as such, we are not infallible”. – Chiara Tricarico, frontwoman & lyricist
Recorded by MOONLIGHT HAZE and mixed & mastered by Simone Mularoni at the renowned Domination Studio, “Animus” boasts the stunning performance of vocalist Chiara Tricarico and is graced by the amazing artwork and pictures of Beatrice Demori.
Tracklist is as follows:
01. The Nothing 02. It’s Insane 03. Kintsugi 04. Animus 05. The Thief and the Moon 06. Midnight Haze 07. Tonight 08. Never Say Never 09. We’ll Be Free 10. A Ritual of Fire 11. Horror & Thunder
MOONLIGHT HAZE is:
Chiara Tricarico – Vocals Marco Falanga – Guitars Alberto Melinato – Guitars Alessandro Jacobi – Bass Giulio Capone – Drums
WITHIN TEMPTATION – Need help finding HYDRA at your local music stores and online? Check out this list of retailers that are unleashing the beast! http://bit.ly/wt-hydra-usa-retailers
VANISHING POINT Distant Is The Sun – Prepare for a HUGE album – release dates are February 21st (EU) and February 18th (US). Distant Is The Sun is releasing via Hamburg, Germany’s AFM Records.
Distant Is The Sun – Track Listing:
01. Beyond Redemption (Intro)
02. King Of Empty Promises
03. Distant Is The Sun
04. When Truth Lies
05. Circle Of Fire
06. Let The River Run
07. Denied Deliverance
08. Story Of Misery
09. Era Zero
10. Pillars Of Sand
11. As December Fades
12. Handful Of Hope
13. Walls Of Silence
14. April (Instrumental)
Michael Kiske Returns To PLACE VENDOME With Another Melodic Rock Masterpiece: “Thunder In The Distance” – Due For Release In November, On Frontiers Records.
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Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the much-anticipated third album from PLACE VENDOME entitled “Thunder in the Distance” on November 1st in Europe and November 5th in North America.
PLACE VENDOME is the Melodic Rock project featuring UNISONIC and former HELLOWEEN singer Michael Kiske on all lead vocals and production from Dennis Ward (PINK CREAM 69).
PLACE VENDOME started in 2004 when Kiske, following a self-imposed exile from the rock and metal scene which lasted a few years after his departure from HELLOWEEN and solo career, accepted in 2004 to be part of a Melodic Rock oriented concept put together by Frontiers Records’ President Serafino Perugino.
The resulting PLACE VENDOME debut album brought Kiske back to a more straight ahead and Rock sound, still very accessible and melodic and far from the Heavy Metal stereotypes of blood, violence and hate which Kiske never had anything to do with. He collaborated for the first time with PINK CREAM 69’s Dennis Ward, Kosta Zafiriou and Uwe Reitenauer with Gunther Werno (VANDEN PLAS) on keyboards. In a quite ironic twist of fate Michael found himself to work with members of PINK CREAM 69, when the band’s original singer Andy Deris took his place in HELLOWEEN when he left.
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The very favorable acceptance of the first PLACE VENDOME album planted the seeds for a second recording entitled “Streets of Fire”, which was produced during 2008. The concept was slightly changed, with some outside writers such as Robert Säll (Work of Art), Ronny Milianowicz (Saint Deamon) and Torsti Spoof (Leverage) handling the bulk of the songwriting, with Dennis Ward still handling the recording and production sessions.
Following his stint with the band UNISONIC, Kiske decided to go back once again to the PLACE VENDOME concept with more melodic rock oriented songs which – once again – have been selected by Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino from outside writers including: Magnus Karlsson (Primal Fear), Timo Tolkki (ex-Stratovarius), Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline), Roberto Tiranti and Andrea Cantarelli (Labyrinth, A Perfect Day), Tommy Denander (Radioactive), Sören Kronqvist (Sunstorm, Issa), and Brett Jones.
“I am having a very open mind in terms of music anyway, and the Place Vendome vibe is a pretty different approach than Unisonic” says Kiske. “I like many tracks off the Place Vendome albums, but especially Guardian Angel, Streets Of Fire, I Will Be Waiting, Set Me Free from the previous albums or now Maybe Tomorrow. For me the vocals are the most important part of a song of course”.
Dennis Ward once again produced and mixed the whole affair with such musicians as Dirk Bruineberg (Consortium Project), Gunter Werno (Vandenplas) and Uwe Reitenauer (Pink Cream 69) completing the lineup. Another total masterpiece from Kiske and Place Vendome is about to hit the market. A true must for all Melodic Rock fans !
Track Listing includes: Talk To Me; Power of Music; Broken Wings; Lost in Paradise; It Can’t Rain Forever; Fragile Ground; Hold Your Love; Never Too Late; Heaven Lost; My Heart is Dying; Breakout; Maybe Tomorrow; Thunder in the Distance.
Samples of some of the album songs can be listened to below:
Hailing originally from Israel, Laid8 had struck an emotional nerve in the hearts of Rock and Metal lovers wherever they played. Combing the land to seek out new ears, the band delivers an uncompromising alternative to female-fronted metal, where singing is melodic and dramatic, aggressive and emotional, music is grooving and clever; and when played on-stage it’s just plain awesome!
Following the release of the band’s critically acclaimed debut album ‘These Faded Lines’ the band reached a certain glass ceiling back home. After playing festivals and headlining sell-out shows throughout the country, the band members decided a change of scenery is needed in order to reach bigger audience. Now based in London, UK, Laid8 are playing venues across the country, gathering more listeners and followers to their already extended fan base. They also caught the media’s eye with reviews in Power Play Magazine, Music-news.com and local media. Working hard as always, Laid8 are now looking to expend the reach of their music.
You want hard, pounding, melodic music, filled with emotions and backed with a vibrant and fun show?
Laid8 got it.
Tal Itay – Vocalist
The band are scheduled to play Friday 19th July at Dublin Castle, London and will share the stage with The Monday Project, Wolf Club Lunar Society, Death Koolaid & The Dogbones. Tickets are available in advance for only £5 from: http://www.wegottickets.com/event/226554
Check out the video for ‘Flush’ from the bands debut album ‘These Faded Lines’ here:
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 
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