All Five Atlantic Albums Newly Remastered by Andy Pearce! Includes Replica Tour Book, Poster, Bumper Sticker & More! With (2) RATT “Best of” records gone platinum plus over the years, this is by far the coolest representation of the records all on vinyl 6/2023. To be released by BMG.
“The Atlantic Years” limited edition box set, celebrating RATT’s massively successful period where all five of their studio albums were certified GOLD, PLATINUM or MULTI-PLATINUM (for combined album sales of over 20 MILLION).
The LP set includes all five albums remastered on 180g black vinyl, plus rare “Nobody Rides forFree” 7″ singlewhich is a rare track from the film PointBreak (Exclusive to the LP Box), 12-page replica tour book (featuring rare and never-before-seen photos from Ratt’s personal archives), 11″x17″ wanted poster, bumper sticker, replica backstage pass, and guitar pick in a custom lift-top box.
All albums feature the classic lineup of Stephen Pearcy (vocals), Warren DeMartini (guitars), Robbin Crosby (guitars), Juan Croucier (bass), and Bobby Blotzer (drums). Formed in Los Angeles in 1981 by frontman lead singer songwriter Stephen Pearcy.
Limited to 4,000 Units in North America All Five Atlantic Records Albums: Out of the Cellar (1984), Invasion of Your Privacy (1985), DancingUndercover (1986), Reach for the Sky (1988) & Detonator (1990)
“Dancing Undercover” on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1987 – “Reach for the Sky” on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1988 – “Detonator” on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1990
I’m thrilled that Guardians Of The Galaxy Volume3 is hitting up theaters on May 5th. Yes, I’m a fan. I’ve watched the first trailer for the final installment of this amazing franchise at least a dozen times already. Marvel Studios is mandatory escapism for me.
The Rainbow classic cover song “Since You’ve Been Gone” (from 1979’s Down To Earth) is played throughout the trailer for Guardians Of The Galaxy Volume 3. I’m ecstatic over this! I’ve had this song on my Spotify playlist for a long time and have forever loved this song. Kudos to Rainbow and especially Graham Bonnet for this immense return to worldwide exposure; it’s been long overdue! For all the fact nerds out there, this song was written and performed back in 1976 by Russ Ballard.
In case you’ve been living on the dark side of the moon this past week, legendary guitarist Mick Mars was sued by Mötley Crüe and he thus counter sued. The short story is: Mötley Crüe believes Mick Mars quit the band once he quit touring. Mick Mars believed he never quit the band and only resigned from touring due to health reasons. Ugh. It’s a hot mess. Just google this story for all the mud slinging details. If I’m picking sides, based on what I’ve researched, I’m in the Mick Mars camp.
June 2nd, 2023 in the US will see dark and extreme metal masters, GRAVEWORM, return with their brand new album, entitled Killing Innocence, through AFM Records. It’s the band’s first studio album in eight long years!
Following previously released first singles, “Dead Words” and “Escorting The Soul”, today, GRAVEWORM have premiered a video for their latest single “We Are The Resistance”, now streaming HERE
Formed in 1997, with nine studio records under their belt and countless tours with bands such as Kataklysm, Vader, Satyricon and Destruction to name just a few, GRAVEWORM belongs to one of the most influential acts the dark and extreme metal scene has to offer. The band’s upcoming magnum opus Killing Innocence showcases their own blend of thrash, gothic and death metal is as powerful as ever, GRAVEWORM has not lost any of their hardness and energy over the years.
The ten new songs on Killing Innocence are characterized by dark atmospheres, powerful riffs and driving drums that captivate the listener. The album is a tribute to the band’s roots, yet produced in a contemporary and fresh way, an absolute must-have for fans of dark but captivating metal. With Killing Innocence, GRAVEWORM impressively proves that they belong to the best representatives of their genre, with an album that is poised to top the best-of lists in 2023!
Ripple Muisc have released Nebula Ripples, a compilation album to benefit NEBULA bassist Tom Davies.
Recently, Tom was diagnosed with Leukemia and is now fighting the disease with all his strength. Although NEBULA had not previously recorded with Ripple Music, everyone in the stoner rock scene knows of their powerful music. When Todd Severin, CEO of Ripple Music, heard of Tom’s fight ahead, he reached out, wanting to do anything Ripple could do to support him, and the result is this compilation.
Todd asked Tom which Ripple bands he loved playing with, and his response forms the basis of this compilation. To top it off, Tom contributed one of his own unreleased tracks to kick the compilation into gear, which features lead guitar work from Joe Hoare of ORANGE GOBLIN. Also included is a special sneak preview track from the upcoming album by KIND.
All proceeds from this album will be donated directly to Tom to help him fight his battle against cancer.
In Tom’s words, “Back in January I ended up in the ER with kidney stones which was followed by viral pneumonia and Bell’s Palsy and eventually led to me being diagnosed with a rare form of high risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
As it’s a very complex form, I’ve had one round of intense chemotherapy so far and am facing many more treatments and hospital visits for the fight of my life. On a positive note, my spirit is strong and has been strengthened by the overwhelming and incredible outpouring of support from the community.”
Tracklisting: Anaesthesia Amnesia -Tom Davies Cosmic Ark – Mos Generator Buffalo Chips – Yawning Man What Are They Trying to Sell – DoctoR DooM Into the Shredder – Ape Machine Drifting off to Storybook Deth – Fatso Jetson Frequencies – Steak Fat Rats – Roadsaw Favorite One – KIND The Song’s at the Bottom of the Bottle – Wino
ANVIL’s 2023 U.S. tour dates with MIDNITE HELLION:
Apr. 06 – Albany, NY @ Empire Live Apr. 07 – Garwood, NJ @ Crossroads Apr. 08 – Brooklyn, NY @ Saint Vitus Bar Apr. 13 – Baltimore, MD @ Ottobar Apr. 14 – Richmond, VA @ Richmond Music Hall Apr. 15 – Wilmington, NC @ Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern Apr. 16 – West Columbia, SC @ New Brookland Tavern Apr. 20 – Jacksonville, FL @ Jack Rabbits Apr. 21 – West Palm Beach, FL @ Respectable Street Apr. 22 – Orlando, FL @ The Conduit Apr. 23 – Gainesville, FL @ Loosey’s Apr. 27 – Houston, TX @ Secret Group Apr. 28 – Dallas, TX @ Club Dada Apr. 29 – Austin, TX @ Come and Take It Live May 04 – Tulsa, OK @ The Vanguard May 05 – Wichita, KS @ Barleycorn’s May 06 – Des Moines, IA @ Lefty’s Live Music May 07 – Madison, WI @ Crucible May 11 – St. Louis, MO @ Red Flag May 12 – Cincinnati, OH @ Legends Bar & Venue May 13 – Grand Rapids, MI @ Pyramid Scheme
VIDEOS: Check out ‘Ghost Shadow’ video HERE Check out ‘Take A Lesson’ video HERE Check out ‘Legal At Last’ video HERE
Originally formed in 1984, Old school Florida Death Metal Legends HELLWITCH are back with their unique brand of highly energetic, incisive, Thrashing Death Metal. The band has always sounded insanely catchy, always balancing technicality to a great measure, HELLWITCH have drafted some genuine classic songs over the years and their new album is a culmination of all such works and experience.
Band leader Pat Ranieri comments about the artwork for ‘Annihilational Intercention’: ” The cover of “Annihilational Intercention” is what is coming in the future of mankind on this wretched planet. The Judge is in the final stages of administering punishment to our race, eradicating every last being. Having biologically and supernaturally evolved to possess otherworldly powers, his psychic assault is manifested in spears of burning energy and levitational force. His apocalyptic “Horsemen” look on with hatred, aiding the cause. The poisoned, decimated world that surrounds tells the tale of man left to his own devices.”
HELLWITCH’s new album ‘Annihilational Intercention’ will be released digitally on the 2nd of June , and physically on the 30th of June 2023. The band will also release a new video for the song ‘Delegated Disruption’ on April 19. More details shortly.
HELLWITCH line up: Pat Ranieri:Guitars, Vocals J.P. Brown:Guitars Brian Wilson:Drums
HELLWITCH tour dates (to be updated) Monday, June 5 The Milestone Club, Charlotte NC Tuesday, June 6 Powers BMX Shop, Richmond VA Wednesday, June 7 The Kennel at West York Inn, York PA Thursday, June 8 The Fire, Philadelphia PA Friday, June 9 Pie Shop, Washington DC Saturday, June 10 Lurking Class Skate Shop, Salisbury MD Sunday, June 11 Saint Vitus Bar, Brooklyn NY November 3/4/5 Mass Destruction fest ,the Loft, Atlanta
GOATWHORE has confirmed a round of US headlining shows this May surrounding their appearances at the Milwaukee Metal Fest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the first annual Hell In The Harbor Fest in Baltimore, Maryland. The journey, which begins on May 21st in Fayetteville, Arkansas and runs through June 3rd in Houston, Texas, follows the band’s upcoming tour supporting Eyehategod. The 30 Years Of Take As Needed For Pain tour kicks off April 7th in New Orleans, Louisiana and makes its way through nearly two dozen cities, coming to a close on April 29th in Denton, Texas. Tickets are on sale now. See all confirmed dates below.
GOATWHORE w/ Eyehategod: 4/07/2023 Siberia – New Orleans, LA 4/08/2023 Boggs – Atlanta, GA 4/09/2023 Brass Mug – Tampa, FL 4/10/2023 Trolley Pub – Charleston, SC 4/11/2023 Hangar 1819 – Greensboro, NC 4/12/2023 Riffhouse – Chesapeake, VA 4/13/2023 Monarch – Brooklyn, NY 4/14/2023 Geno’s – Portland, ME 4/15/2023 Space Ballroom – Hamden, CT * GOATWHORE only 4/16/2023 Middle East – Boston, MA 4/17/2023 Bug Jar – Rochester, NY 4/18/2023 Sanctuary – Detroit, MI 4/19/2023 Mr. Small’s – Pittsburgh, PA 4/20/2023 Ace Of Cups – Columbus, OH 4/21/2023 Zanzabar – Louisville, KY *
GOATWHORE only: 4/22/2023 Black Circle – Indianapolis, IN 4/23/2023 Turf Club – St Paul, MN 4/24/2023 Nightshop – Bloomington, IL 4/25/2023 Wildwood – Iowa City, IA 4/26/2023 Royal Grove – Lincoln, NE 4/27/2023 Red Flag – St. Louis, MO 4/28/2023 Rev Room – Little Rock, AR 4/29/2023 Rubber Gloves – Denton, TX GOATWHORE Headlining Shows: 5/21/2023 George’s Majestic Lounge – Fayetteville, AR 5/22/2023 Growler’s – Memphis, TN 5/23/2023 Mini Bar – Kansas City, MO 5/24/2023 Outland Ballroom – Springfield, MO 5/26/2023 Milwaukee Metal Fest @ The Rave – Milwaukee, WI * festival date 5/28/2023 Hell In The Harbor Fest @ Soundstage – Baltimore, MD * festival date 5/30/2023 Madison Live – Covington, KY 5/31/2023 The Cobra – Nashville, TN 6/01/2023 Switchyard – Hattiesburg, MS 6/02/2023 Chelsea’s Live – Baton Rouge, LA 6/03/2023 Black Magic – Houston, TX
GOATWHORE continues to tour in support of their Angels Hung From The Arches Of Heaven full-length, released in October via Metal Blade Records. Their most accomplished album to date in sound, concept, and execution, the twelve-track offering earned the #9 position on Billboard’s Current Hard Music Albums chart upon its first week of release and stands among the most volatile and plainly dangerous records to come out of 2022.
Angels Hung From The Arches Of Heaven was produced by Jarrett Pritchard (Exhumed, 1349), and tracked primarily at Studio In The Country in Bogalusa, Louisiana under pandemic restrictions. Additionally, the band recruited acclaimed producer Kurt Ballou (Converge, High On Fire, Gatecreeper, Code Orange) to mix the record with final mastering duties handled by Grammy-award winning engineer Ted Jensen (Ghost, Gojira, Cult Of Luna). The record is tied together by the art of longtime collaborator Jordan Barlow whose cryptic use of sigils holds deeper meaning to the record’s totality.
Angels Hung From The Arches Of Heaven is available on CD, digitally, and LP on multiple color variants.
Finnish theatrical melodic metal band Endless Exam has released new single and music video from their upcoming album. It’s a horror movie influenced dreamlike song from the album to be released by Inverse Records in May 2023.
Endless Exam backgrounds the song:
“The lyrics of the song is about a world led by better people, where the value and contribution of an ordinary person has no meaning and they can only be used as part of the machine. Their only goal is to be able to just give orders and give the author belief that they are being heard.
However, without these parts, no machine runs. The ordinaries start to resist and the world imagined by these better people starts to fall apart. They realize that nothing works without these ordinary people. They are the basis of everything and if their value is not taken into account, the machine will not run either.”
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
Famed rock vocalist Zak Stevens and producer / guitar player extraordinaire Aldo Lonobile make up the force behind Archon Angel and this album, aptly named ‘II’ is their second album together. Like their first effort, but even more in tune and perfected, ‘II’ is an impressive and powerful work of prog metal.
Having aced the crystal perfect production and found a fluidity with their songwriting teamwork, these two veterans need no roses considering their impressive back catalogs, but ‘II’ is a project worth being very proud of and fans will be more than satisfied with the results.
Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to present the upcoming release of Archon Angel’s second album, “II” on April 14, 2023. It follows the band’s 2020 debut, “Fallen”, which saw vocalist Zak Stevens (Circle II Circle, Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) and producer/guitarist Aldo Lonobile (Secret Sphere, Edge Of Forever) delivering a fantastic slab of power/progressive metal. Fans of Archon Angel’s debut will surely find no sophomore slump awaits them on “II”. In fact, the two have locked in on all the key parts that worked so well on their debut and amplified and perfected them for this glorious follow-up.
The seeds of Archon Angel were planted when producer/guitarist Lonobile and vocalist Stevens were collaborating on songs for Timo Tolkki’s Avalon’s ‘Return To Eden’ album, which Aldo produced and played guitar on and Zak did some guest lead vocals for. After some discussions about what musical direction they wanted to take, Aldo sent Zak some demos that were reminiscent of classic Savatage records like Edge Of Thorns and Gutter Ballet. The two felt they were onto something and followed their musical muse, ultimately culminating in what would become Archon Angel’s debut album, “Fallen”.
Zak Stevens first came to prominence in the metal scene when he was hand-picked by Savatage‘s Jon Olivia to take over as lead vocalist for the band. Starting with 1993’s Edge Of Thorns, he would record four studio albums with the band, including the aforementioned album plus Handful Of Rain, Dead Winter Dead, and The Wake Of Magellan. He has also performed on multiple Trans-Siberian Orchestra releases, including Christmas Eve and Other Stories, Beethoven’s Last Night, and more, while also being a member of the band’s touring production. Around 2001, Zak started a band, Circle II Circle, which has recorded seven studio albums, with the most recent being 2015’s Reign Of Darkness. Additionally, he has appeared on albums by Timo Tolkki’s Avalon, Machines Of Grace, Jon Olivia‘s Pain, and more.
Wilmington (NC) – U.S Heavy Metal quartet CHILDREN OF THE REPTILE have released Silent Circle, the third and final single before release of forthcoming album, Heavy is the Head. Check it out at the following links:
Though they are proudly part of what’s now called the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal, CHILDREN OF THE REPTILE aren’t simply aping styles from the 70s and 80s. Taking a page out of the book of Manilla Road and calling themselves “American Epic Heavy Metal,” these four travellers have been crushing the Southeast United States for over a decade now.
If you want the riffs of Metallica, the twin leads of Thin Lizzy or Iron Maiden, the attitude of Judas Priest, the progressive leanings of Mastodon, and the vibes of Manilla Road, then you must check out the best kept secret from the swamps of the Cape Fear: CHILDREN OF THE REPTILE.
Track Listing:
Delvers in Darkness*
Warriors of Light
Burner
Silent Circle
Fear The Old Blood
Seven Days of Fire
Last Words (Ruin’s Ride)
Adventurers
Oath to Order
Credits:
Written, produced, and performed by Hermit. It was recorded in Lost Woods Studio, Parts Unknown.
Additional Gang Vocals and Keyboard Programming: Stephen Cline
Produced by Stephen Cline TMF Studios, Raleigh, NC Mastered by Jamie King Basement Studios, Winston Salem, NC
Visual Layout and Art: Ozzie Darden Logo Design: Cayla Rickard All Lyrics by Ozzie Darden
Line-Up:
Ozzie Darden: Lead vocals, guitar Chris Millard: Guitar, backing vocals David “Pils” Hufham: Bass, backing vocals Chase Kelly: Drums, backing vocals
Valo is the third and final pre-album single from the forthcoming new VORNA album Aamunkoi, and now available on all digital platforms.
“When Arttu (Järvisalo, Lead Guitar) brought the first instrumental demo of this song to the table, and I started to work on the lyrics and vocal arrangements, my initial thoughts were that this sounds like a love song. And that’s not really my expertise. The end result is something that fits into the aforementioned category as well, but it can also be interpreted from a more universal perspective. We may not have the power to take anyone’s pain away or save them, but what we can do, is to try and make each other’s journeys more bearable. That’s what “Valo” (The Light) is all about.”
The music of VORNA, from Tampere, is as melancholic as sublimely gloomy. No wonder that the group has already toured or played shows with Insomnium, Wintersun, Kalmah, Thyrfing and Whispered. The sextet from Finland, active since 2008, enters with a majestic metal sound that also features symphonic and folk accents.
The band’s fourth album stands out for its self-evident, breathing musicality. The lyrics are presented again in the Finnish native language of the musicians and support the mythical character of the tracks. The album title could hardly be more aptly chosen. “Aamunkoi” can be translated as “Aurora”. In literature, this means “The Dawn”. In the far north, where VORNA come from, this is also the name for the phenomenon of the polar lights. In both interpretations darkness and grace play a role. Astonishment and fear are also to be associated. Not everything can be grasped and cleary understood. Much remains in the indefinite and in the intermediate tones. This closes the circle to the melancholic metal of the six Finns and their nature-loving understanding of art.
In comparison with the debut “Ajastaika” (2013), the second album from 2015, “Ei valo minua seuraa”, and the debut on LIFEFORCE RECORDS, “Sateet palata saavat” (2019), VORNA surpass themselves on “Aamunkoi”. All songs sound immensely multifaceted, accentuated and above all atmospheric.
The gloomy emotionality and fine melody lines of the band’s fourth album pull in their spell. The contrasting play between forward attacks and fragile atmosphere, which reaches deep, has lasting effects and impresses.
“Life is finite, unpredictable, and unfair. The album’s main theme is survival in the uncertain world where the lucky ones who get to witness a new day have a chance to strive for a better future – when they still can. Music-wise Aamunkoi is Vorna’s most melodic work to date and we have once again broadened our musical horizon towards new territories on every instrument. “
VORNA live:
06.05.23 FI – Tampere @ Yo-talo 12.05.23 FI – Helsinki @ Kuudes Linja 20./22.07.23 FI – Laukaa @ John Smith Rock Festival 04./05.08.23 FI – Tampere @ SaariHelvetti 10./12.08.23 FI – Kotka @ Dark River Festival
Clear the manège, let the ultimate LORDI show begin! Screem Writers Guild, the new beast of an album by the beloved Finnish hard rock monster squad, is out TODAY on Atomic Fire Records!
In celebration of the release, the group has launched a cinematic music video for the record’s opening track “Dead Again Jayne,” once again scripted, directed, and edited by Mr. Lordi himself. Dealing with a patched-up lady who suddenly isn’t that dead anymore, the song is dominated by a morbid, Frankenstein-ish atmosphere.
Watch LORDI’s “Dead Again Jayne” video at THIS LOCATION.
View LORDI’s previously released video for “Lucyfer Prime Evil” HERE and “Thing In The Cage” HERE.
Screem Writers Guild was produced by Mr. Lordi with Mana and Janne Halmkrona as executive producers. Ilkka Herkman took care of mixing and Pauli Saastamoinen mastered the record. The artwork was also designed by Mr. Lordi himself who has made a name as director for the band’s vision since the early ’90s. The record’s title — a “LORDIfied” play on words — is a reference to the “Screen Writers Guild,” an association of Hollywood screenplay writers (1920s to 1950s), yet there is no doubt that LORDI‘s musical version is much louder and fiercer. “The record itself isn’t a real concept album, but it obviously plays with the overall cinematic theme,” says Mr. Lordi.
Screem Writers Guild is available in the following formats:
Limited Collector’s Box Set – Includes alternative cover artwork, CD-digipak, 2xLP in gatefold, exclusive Live At Masters Of Rock DVD featuring five live songs, five band member portrait art prints plus LORDI notebook.
The box set will be available in three color variants: – Red/Black Splatter vinyl @ Atomic Fire Records Mailorder – Green Marbled vinyl @ EMP – Purple/Black Marbled vinyl @ Atomic Fire Records US Mailorder, Nuclear Blast, and Levykauppa Äx
Other configurations: – CD-digipak – 2xLP gatefold (Transparent/Blue Marbled) – 2xLP gatefold (Red/Black Splatter; only available in Europe) – 2xLP gatefold (Green Marbled; only available @ EMP) – 2xLP gatefold (Purple/Black Marbled; only available @ Atomic Fire Records US Mailorder, Nuclear Blast, and Levykauppa Äx) – digital
Order Screem Writers Guild in the physical format of your choice, stream it, or get it digitally now at THIS LOCATION.
Tonight, LORDI will kick off another touring cycle at Aria Complex (San Gwann, MT) where they’ll premiere their new musical play on stage for the first time. The performance serves as a warm-up for Mr. Lordi and his crew as it will be followed by a massive European arena tour alongside Sabaton and Babymetal in April/May as well as select summer festival gigs and a few Austrian shows in the Fall. See all confirmed dates below.
LORDI: 3/31/2023 Rock ‘N Malta @ Aria Complex – San Gwann, MT w/ Sabaton, Babymetal: 4/14/2023 First Direct Arena – Leeds, UK 4/15/2023 OVO Arena Wembley – London, UK 4/16/2023 Motorpoint Arena – Cardiff, UK 4/18/2023 OVO Hydro – Glasgow, UK 4/21/2023 Zénith (La Villette) – Paris, FR Sold Out 4/22/2023 Festhalle – Frankfurt, DE 4/24/2023 Barclays Arena – Hamburg, DR 4/25/2023 Rockhal – Esch-sur-Alzette, LU 4/28/2023 Avicii Arena – Stockholm, SE 4/29/2023 Spektrum – Oslo, NO Sold Out 4/30/2023 Royal Arena – Copenhagen, DK 5/01/2023 3-Majówka – Wroclaw,PL *LORDI only 5/02/2023 ZAG Arena – Hanover, DE 5/03/2023 Ziggo Dome – Amsterdam, NL 5/05/2023 Mercedes-Benz Arena – Berlin, DE 5/06/2023 Quarterback Immobilien Arena – Leipzig, DE 5/07/2023 Stadthalle – Vienna, AT 5/09/2023 Atlas Arena – Łódź, PL 5/10/2023 Ostravar Aréna – Ostrava, CZ 5/12/2023 Lanxess Arena – Cologne, DE 5/13/2023 Sportpaleis – Antwerp, BE 5/15/2023 Olympiahalle – Munich, DE 5/18/2023 Saku Suurhall – Tallinn, EE 5/19/2023 Helsingin Jäähalli – Helsinki, FI 5/20/2023 Kuopio-halli – Kuopio, FI End Tour 6/08/2023 Rockfest – Hyvinkää, FI 6/16/2023 Tuhdimmat Tahdit – Tampere, FI *New* 6/25/2023 Rock Imperium Festival – Cartagena, ES 7/29/2023 Rock Of Ages – Rottenburg-Seebronn, DE New 10/14/2023 Wildstyle & Tattoo @ Stadthalle – Kapfenberg, AT 10/21/2023 Wildstyle & Tattoo @ Tabakfabrik – Linz, AT 10/28/2023 Wildstyle & Tattoo @ Messezentrum
Founded in 1992 by singer, songwriter, and designer Mr. Lordi, LORDI are one of the major Finnish rock/heavy metal acts of our time. Originally rooted in Rovaniemi (Northern Lapland, Finland), the band achieved their international breakthrough after winning the Eurovision Song Contest with their hit song “Hard Rock Hallelujah” in 2006.
Since then, the unconventional troop has rocked their way into the spotlight of Europe with charm, unforgettable tunes, and elaborate monster costumes, and have become an integral part of the lineups of globally recognized festivals such as Wacken Open Air (DE) and Masters of Rock (CZ) among others.
LORDI: Mr. Lordi – vocals Kone – guitars Hiisi – bass Hella – keyboard Mana – drums
w/ RAZOR, WHIPLASH, SKULL FIST, WARSENAL, DROWNING IN BLOOD
This coming May 12th, Montreal, QC will be host to this city’s first-ever Piranha Pit Fest presented by Loudtrax, the one-stop online shop for everything swag from the biggest names in Loud Music.
Piranha Pit Fest will feature headliners RAZOR, the Canadian thrash legends who have been recognized as one of the country’s pioneers of the metal genre. RAZOR released their ninth studio album Cycle of Contempt this past September, making it their first album in 25 years. RAZOR will also be supported by another legendary thrash band, New Jersey’s WHIPLASH, one of the first American East Coast thrash metal bands of the 1980s to inspire many who followed in their footsteps. Also joining the lineup is the 2023 Juno nominated (Metal/Hard Music Album Of The Year) and international tour de force, Toronto’s high-flying heavy metal shredders SKULL FIST along with local Montreal moshers Warsenal and Drowning In Blood.
Piranha Pit Fest will be held at Piranha Bar 680 Sainte-Catherine St W, one of the city’s metal strongholds for extreme music events.
Calgary’s The Electric Highway Festival has wrapped up for 2023 and it was a resounding success according to festival organizers. The event took place from March 23, 24, and 25, 2023 at Dickens, with 3 days of music from Canadian bands trekking from across Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba along with American headliners, Los Angeles’ Sasquatch.
The 2024 edition of The Electric Highway will take place April 4, 5, and 6, 2024 once again at Dickens in Calgary. Band submissions for the event open on April 1 and run until June 30, 2023. Bands can fill out the form on the website.
Fans of The Electric Highway will also have the opportunity to buy very limited Ultra Early Bird Passes for the 2024 festival starting at noon MST on April 1, 2023. Only 20 passes for $60 each will be available in the Festival Store.
About: Buckle up for The Electric Highway Festival! The 2023 edition of the festival focused on Desert Rock and Metal, Doom, Sludge, and Heavy Psych and had expanded to include some punk and hardcore bands as well.
The festival featured Californian headliners Sasquatch, one of the festival’s past favorites, laying down their brand of fuzzy, kick-ass Desert Rock & Heavy Psych with direct support from Vancouver’s La Chinga who returned for their 4th appearance on Saturday night. Black Mastiff returned to headline Friday night with Calgary’s Gone Cosmic and HypnoPilot headlined the Thursday show with support from Citizen Rage. These are just a few of the wicked bands that played at The Electric Highway.
The Electric Highway is a fully immersive festival experience and offers much more than just music. The festival also featured an art & vendor exposition during all three days at Dickens, March 23 – 25, 2023.
Check www.TheElectricHighway.ca for more festival information. We look forward to bringing this festival to you, and can’t wait to see everyone in 2024!
The Electric Highway 2023 Official Nightly Lineups:
Thursday, March 23: HypnoPilot (Lethbridge, AB) – Daily Headliner Citizen Rage (Calgary, AB) Musing (Calgary, AB) No More Moments (Siksika, AB) Father Moon (Calgary, AB) Destroy My Brains (Lloydminster, AB).
Friday, March 24: Black Mastiff (Edmonton, AB/Vancouver, BC) – Daily Headliner Gone Cosmic (Calgary, AB) Set & Stoned (Crossfield, AB) Hombre (Calgary, AB) Empress (Vancouver, BC) Molten Lava (Vancouver, BC) Space Queen (Vancouver, BC) Owls & Eagles (Calgary, AB)
Saturday, March 25: Sasquatch (Los Angeles, CA) – Festival Headliner La Chinga (Vancouver, BC) Buffalo Bud Buster (Calgary, AB) Brown Dwarf (Red Deer, AB) The Astral Prophets (Calgary, AB) Iron Tusk (Siksika, AB) The Sleeping Legion (Winnipeg, MB) Tebby & the Heavy (Edmonton, AB) Garuda (Cranbrook, BC).
New Album, “Everfrost”, Out This Summer On AFM Records!
July 14, 2023 will see power metal act WINTERSTORM release their upcoming, fifth studio album entitled “Everfrost”. It’s their first offering since 2016, and their debut with powerhouse label AFM Records.
“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 single releases prove. Following the previously shared, first album appetizer “To The End Of All Known”, now, the five-piece has released a music video for “Future Times”! The comments:
“Future Times is about focusing on the changeable future instead of wasting time on the unchangeable past. Whether it’s the small things everyday or big ones like the destruction of our planet — it’s always worth getting the focus right.”
The new WINTERSTORM clip for “Future Times” is now streaming HERE
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 available as CD Digipak, limited clear blue Vinyl and Boxset on July 14, 2023 through AFM Records, the pre-sale is now online at THIS LOCATION!
5th new song and music video released from the Power/Progressive Metal band’s upcoming new album
Hotly anticipated Power/Progressive Metal band IMMORTAL GUARDIAN continue building the anticipation for their next opus, sporadically issuing new material as it completes as we head towards a late summer release of the band’s next full album. Today, the group unveils “Roots Run Deep” along with a corresponding music video. To heighten the experience the group has enlisted the services of famed vocalist Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear, ex-Gamma Ray) who guests alongside IMMORTAL GUARDIAN singer Carlos Zema.
Recording independently and remotely the quartet is assembling the follow-up to 2021’s successful ‘Psychosomatic’ track-by-track and sharing the material as it completes, along with visually captivating music videos, that again the self-contained group produces themselves. Check out “Roots Run Deep” on all streaming/download services, or watch the clip at: https://youtu.be/j7CLsJ50glo
“This Super Metal style song brings together the powerful vocals of Mr. Scheepers with Immortal Guardian’s signature sound to create an epic and inspiring anthem,” explains Carlos. “’Roots Run Deep’ takes us on a journey back to a time when we were all united before our differences and conflicts divided us. It reminds us that we all share a common history and that as a society we must learn to survive the separations and unite to conquer. With a message of hope, unity, and perseverance, ‘Roots Run Deep’ encourages us to make the world a better place. So let us embrace our shared history and let this song inspire us to make a positive change in the world. Thank you for watching this powerful and inspiring video.”
“‘Roots Run Deep’ is about the levels of today’s division. Black and white, religion vs religion, left vs right, rich and poor, war and peace, etc.,” further explains guitarist/keyboardist Gabriel Guardian. “The world is so divided right now and what we want more than ever is unity. This song is about putting our differences aside and remembering that we are all humans just trying to survive. We all just want a happy life, and that would be more likely to happen if we all just agreed to disagree and respect each other and celebrate the things that make us all so different and unique.”
Heavy topics are not unfamiliar to Immortal Guardian whose previous album focused on the Covid pandemic, likely the first full album to be thematically linked to the disease and its effect on the globe and its people. In the past year, Immortal Guardian has revealed four other brand new songs including “Perfect Person,” “Ozona,” “Echoes” and “Southern Rain” forming a basis for their next conceptual piece, ‘Unite and Conquer.’ The band will continue to share new material as the creative process proceeds to build up to a new full-length album planned for late summer 2023. Watch for pre-orders soon for CDs and limited-color vinyl variants.
More info will be released by Immortal Guardian and M-Theory Audio in the weeks and months to follow. https://www.facebook.com/igmetal/.
IMMORTAL GUARDIAN: Gabriel Guardian – guitars/keyboards Carlos Zema – vocals Justin Piedimonte – drums Joshua Lopez – bass
Detroit (MI) – Melodic Power Thrashers AMONG THESE ASHES have revealed the artwork for forthcoming single “The Enemy In I.” Jayson Cessna of Prosthetic Records artists, Astralborne, is responsible for the visual stunner!
“The Enemy In I” will be released on April 21, packaged with b-side track “Sirens,” a cover of the Savatagegem. A lyric video for “Sirens” is available now at youtu.be/WQe52VAHb5Y!
Regarding “Sirens,” the band had this to say: “Among These Ashes pays homage to one of the best bands to ever do it, Savatage, with a cover of the band’s classic song, Sirens. This cover is deliberately made with ATA sonic trademarks, rather than being a carbon copy of the original. Thank you Savatage for being a continuous source of inspiration.
The band released the following statement concerning the forthcoming single package:
“A year after releasing our debut album, Dominion Enthroned, we return with our newest track, The Enemy in I. This track lyrically chronicles the woes of self-destruction. We worship at the altar of those who paved this musical path for us, and in that spirit, we’ve included a cover of a Savatageclassic, Sirens, as a B-side track to this release. Both tracks display our signature attributes with pummeling aggression contrasted by thematic melodies and harmony. We cannot wait to bring these cacophonous offerings to the ravenous metal hordes.”
In other news, the band recently released a lyric video for a reworked version of “A Veil of Black,” a track from Dominion Enthroned, at youtu.be/Dt8CsNn7QdQ.
The new version of “A Veil of Black” features Brooke Rousseau of Lady Luna and the Devil on vocals with AMONG THESE ASHES lead vocalist, JP Abboud. The video was created by Ross Morgan. The song is included as a bonus track on Alone Records’ CD reissue of DominionEnthroned, which is available to purchase at this location.
Dominion Enthroned, which was released in early 2022, is available to stream in its entirety at the following locations:
BIO: Among These Ashes is a melodic power/thrash metal band hailing from Detroit, MI. The central focus of this band is creating stellar, highly-memorable metal songs. The band’s sound is crushingly heavy and punctuated by cerebral arrangements, thought-provoking lyrics, and dynamic shifts in tempo and aggression. The band’s debut musical offering, Dominion Enthroned, is a conceptual tour de force inspired by modern societal parallels and struggles.
Following the much acclaimed, 2020-album Epitaph, Danish prog-and power metal masters PYRAMAZE have announced the release of their forthcoming full-length record, entitledBloodlines. The album will be out on June 23, 2023 via AFM Records
After PYRAMAZE previously shared a first song, “Broken Arrow”, today, they are premiering a music video for new single “Fortress”! The band comments:
“Fortress” has Pyramaze incorporating some of their traditional elements and melding it with a modern cinematic atmosphere. With hard hitting staccato strings, soaring and powerful vocals, driving rhythm guitars and drums, and moving and melodic keyboard passages, “Fortress” should please fans of both older and newer Pyramaze.”
PYRAMAZE are an exceptional phenomenon in the international, heavy music scene: Their sound brings along numerous traditional melodic and progressive metal trademarks, but gets an immensely high recognition value by their unique feeling for great melodies. The band is known for their technical finesse and unique arrangements, often melodic and atmospheric, and frequently including complex guitar riffs and solos supported by synthetic sounds.
In recent years, PYRAMAZE has played on many stages in Europe and North America, demonstrating their energetic live performance and impressive musical skills. They have built a loyal fan base and is considered by many metal fans as one of the most innovative and talented bands of their generation.
Bloodlines was recorded, mixed and mastered by PYRAMAZE guitarist and renowned producer Jacob Hansen. Set to be released on June 23, 2023 through AFM Records, the album pre-sale is now available at THIS LOCATION!
I went with my buddy Troy to see Cro-Mags and Ringworm, down in Covington Kentucky, at Madison Live!, on March 17, 2023. Both of these bands have been on my bucket list for many years. Suffice to say I had an amazing time seeing and hearing these bands, up close!
The line-up for Cro-Mags has changed over the years; however, the legendary band founder Harley Flanagan has once again proved to his fans he is still at his very best in performing live. With a mixed crowd of both younger and older fans, the Hardcore stage diving and insane pit of yesteryear was non-existent; save for a pit that was more congenial than over aggressive.
Photo Credit: Stone/Metal Odyssey
Two or three scuffles broke out in the crowd and Harley Flanagan was very quick to diffuse the scuffles. Harley made it clear his lack of tolerance for fighting. Harley also let his feelings be known for unity, brotherhood and being grateful for your loved ones. I couldn’t agree more. There were parents that took their little kids to this show. As for the music, I couldn’t stop moving; with my cane and screwed up knees. We’ve all gotten older and Harley doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone. He’s forever immortalized in Metal and Hardcore history.
Photo Credit: Stone/Metal OdysseyPhoto credit: Stone/Metal Odyssey – above: Human Furnace of Ringworm
Cleveland Ohio’s Ringworm didn’t hold back nothing. They blazed and thundered through their set of songs like killer hornets. Human Furnace led his band like the Metal titan he is, vocally menacing. Opening for Cro-Mags, Ringworm set the Metal vibe on course. I always have more energy in the first half of any concert; thus I went into the pit with my cane and enjoyed every second of it. My fellow Metal brethren joined me in the pit, to cheer me on and make certain I didn’t fall down. It was more a nostalgic ceremony of yesteryear than anything else. I was so grateful to the brother/sisterhood that graciously joined me in celebration. My knees hurt so bad out there and the love and support I received from that Metal gathering brought me close to tears. I’ll never forget that night. God Bless them all and both bands. – Stone
Photo Credit: Stone/Metal OfysseyHuman Furnace and me!
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