Dave Murray was born in England back on December 23rd of 1956. Today, Dave turns 68 years old. Happy birthday Dave! As a lifelong guitarist for Iron Maiden, spanning five decades, Dave Murray has played on every studio and live album of theirs. A tried and true Metal legend is Dave Murray!
Graham Bonnet was born in England back on December 23rd of 1947. Today, Graham celebrates his 77th birthday. Happy birthday, Graham! An iconic Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal vocalist, going back to the late 1960’s, for such powerhouse bands as Rainbow, Michael Schenker Group, Alcatrazz, and Impellitteri. Graham Bonnet has also commanded a brilliant solo music career.
Latin America! It’s been 6 long years since we last had the great pleasure of bringing our black magic to you and it is time for our return. Get your tickets and we’ll see you in March!
07.03 Limeira – Mirage, BRAZIL 08.03 Sao Paulo – VIP Station, BRAZIL 09.03 Curitiba – CWB Hall, BRAZIL 11.03 Buenos Aires – El Teatrito, ARGENTINA 13.03 Valparaiso – Espacio Segundo Piso, CHILE 14.03 Concepcion – Havana Club, CHILE 15.03 Santiago – Teatro Cariola, CHILE 16.03 La Serena – Teatro Centenario, CHILE 18.03 Bogota – Ace of Spades, COLOMBIA 20.03 San Salvador – Gimnasio Adolfo Pineda, EL SALVADOR 23.03 Mexico City – Circo Volador, MEXICO
Canadian heavy psychedelic rock ensemble AAWKS has announced the release of their latest single, “Death Trip (Naglfar)“, a preview of their eagerly anticipated album On Through The Sky Maze scheduled for release on March 21, 2025. This new track is available now for fans who appreciate a blend of intense rock dynamics and mystical lyrical themes.
“Death Trip (Naglfar)” sets a bold tone for the upcoming album with its powerful lyrics and immersive soundscapes. The single reflects AAWKS‘ continued evolution, incorporating heavier riffs, grooves, and a compelling narrative of otherworldly voyages and cosmic battles. The band encourages listeners to delve into the track, whether they think they’re cool or not, with a tongue-in-cheek nod to their laid-back ethos.
Lyrics from the single paint a vivid picture: “Beware of these towering sails, This death ship is heavy with nails. Now is the time of the storm, These angry spirits begin to transform.”
AAWKS continues to captivate with their unique blend of stoner, doom, fuzz rock, and sludge, all while exploring fantastical themes. The upcoming album On Through The Sky Maze promises to take listeners on a darker journey through themes of the occult, life and death, and demonology. With the addition of new bassist and vocalist Ryan “Grimepup” Mailman, the album showcases a heavier and more intense version of AAWKS, perfect for those late-night hours spent in the shadows of forests and swamps.
About AAWKS: Hailing from the mysterious foothills of Kempenfelt Bay in Barrie Ontario Canada, AAWKS make heavy-psych, stoner-doom music. They mix melodic songwriting with pummeling riffs and grooves and their music is as influenced by newer bands such as MEPHISTOFELES, MONOLORD, WINDHAND and the MELVINS as it is by classic rock bands like BLACK SABBATH, PINK FLOYD and DEEP PURPLE.
They explore fantastical themes of the occult and spin tales of mind expansion and spaced out exploration of the multiverse. AAWKS released their debut full length album (((((HEAVY ON THE COSMIC))))) in June of 2022 on Black Throne Productions which landed at #2 on the Doom Charts that month.
“Dark Oblivion” is the brand new single from British death metal collective, AS THE WORLD DIES. The track comes by way of the band’s second studio album, Nebula, set for release on March 21st via Reaper Entertainment.
Nebula is a gripping journey through the realms of crushing death metal and cosmic mysticism. Band leader and death metal veteran Scott Fairfax explains, “This album is the quintessence of what AS THE WORLD DIES is all about. We pushed our musical boundaries to create something both brutal and thought-provoking. It’s heavier, darker, and more profound than anything we’ve done before.”
The album dives into themes of apocalyptic prophesies and human insignificance, epitomized by the looming presence of the asteroid Apophis, a key inspiration behind the band’s cosmic death metal sound. Adding a progressive touch with atmospheric ‘80s synths and a haunting industrial edge, Nebula expands the boundaries of the genre while maintaining its relentless death metal core.
Watch AS THE WORLD DIES‘ lyric video for “Dark Oblivion” HERE.
Written and recorded primarily in Fairfax’s studio Riff Central, Nebula is a testament to his singular vision and expertise. With a noteworthy resume featuring bands like Memoriam and Massacre, Fairfax delivers an album that is as musically intricate as it is thematically profound. “Atmosphere is everything to me,” he notes. “Songs must tell a story; otherwise, they’re just a collection of riffs.”
The latest single, “Dark Oblivion,” is a tour de force showcasing the band’s signature blend of heavy, melodic riffs and apocalyptic storytelling. With its brooding atmosphere and devastating impact, the track serves as a chilling anthem for the end times.
Nebula is set to challenge and redefine death metal conventions with its fusion of raw aggression and thoughtful composition. Mixed and mastered by Anthony Wall, the record promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the band’s journey.
Nebula will be available on CD, vinyl, and digital formats. Find preorders at THIS LOCATION.
AS THE WORLD DIES: Scott Fairfax – lead guitars/keyboards Darren Mcgillivray – guitars Chris Mcgrath – drums Bill Richmond – bass Jay Price – vocals
Death/Thrash Metal stalwarts AVENGER OF BLOOD sign to M-Theory Audio and bring you a new single/lyric video entitled “Revenge Is My Name.” Ripping and ruthless, “Revenge Is My Name” takes no prisoners in its all-out assault as the band pummels and crushes all in their wake.
‘“Revenge Is My Name’ is a song about violence and anger! The inspiration came from our love of slasher and horror films, as well as a lot of the first-person perspectives you see on social media and such these days,” explains drummer Shannon Frye. “The world can be a violent place, and songs like this are an outlet for those who experience the same thing.”
“Revenge Is My Name” is the first slice from the band’s forthcoming EP of the same name. ‘The ‘Revenge Is My Name’ EP features four new songs from the re-energized quintet and will be released April 25th on limited (200 copies) throes of ash colored vinyl and CD.
“We are excited to work with Marco and the M-Theory Audio staff,” states Shannon. “Having been friends for a long time and knowing Marco’s dedication, work ethic and knowledge, we knew we made the right decision in this new partnership! We look forward to releasing this new EP and much more great things to come.“
M-Theory label president Marco Barbieri has been a fan of the group almost 20 years and their paths have crossed many times over the years whether it was being considered for Century Media, handling music publishing deals, booking AOB on locals shows, producing a single for Relapse, or handling digital distribution, Marco has always lent a helping hand to the guys and he’s proud to finally add them to the label roster.
Originally hailing from the Bay Area thrash scene, AVENGER OF BLOOD moved down to Las Vegas after recording a couple demos. Capturing a deal with JCM Records the group issued their debut ‘Complete Annihilation’ in 2005 which put AVENGER OF BLOOD on the map and conscience of thrash fans worldwide. Several opportunities presented themselves to perform at festivals like Minneapolis Mayhem, Millennium Music Conference, Monsters of Metal and the Northwest Deathfest.
Two years later AOB appeared on the infamous ‘Speed Kills… Again’ compilation, which featured unknown names at the time like Warbringer, Toxic Holocaust, Enforcer and Merciless Death setting the stage for the thrash revival. The same label, Heavy Artillery, signed AVENGER OF BLOOD and released the classic album ‘Death Brigade’ in 2008, which even featured cover art from Joe Petagno (infamous for Motorhead, in addition to works by Krisiun and Sodom).
Momentum was halted when singer/guitarist Eric Greaney and bassist Shawn Loureiro left the group, but Shannon and guitarist Marc Flores have persevered by bringing in new musicians to keep the dream alive recording various releases, such as a split 7” with Witchaven, the ‘Spawn of Evil’ EP (2012) and ‘On Slaying Ground’ full-length (2016).
Now having a stable line-up for the past years, rounded out by singer Sal Lalli, guitarist Chris Garcia, and bassist Corey Sorrenti, the group even re-recorded the band’s debut last year calling it ‘Completely Re-Annihilated’ and performing at Blades of Steel Fest, alongside Flotsam & Jetsam, Vio-lence, Exciter, Jag Panzer, Massacre, Artillery and Riot V, as well as supporting Death Angel and Ruthless on shows in NV and CA. AVENGER OF BLOOD is ready to punish you relentlessly on ‘Revenge Is My Name’; with live performances in the works and already starting to lay down the full-length for 2026.
In support of our new record “Leopard Skin” we will be touring heavily next year. Here is the first leg of the tour dates. Album will be released in the beginning of April . Come and join us on The Lucky MF’r Tour!!!
NECROT will return to stages this Winter supporting Cavalera on the Third World Trilogy US tour. NECROT will join the tour on February 20th in San Deigo, California. From there, the journey will wind its way through over two dozen cities, coming to a close on March 30th in Phoenix, Arizona. Additional support will be provided by Dead Heat. Tickets are on sale now. See all confirmed dates below.
NECROT w/ Cavalera, Dead Heat: 2/20/2025 House Of Blues – San Diego, CA 2/21/2025 The Belasco – Los Angeles, CA 2/22/2025 Senator Theater – Chico, CA 2/23/2025 Virginia Street Brewhouse – Reno, NV 2/24/2025 Great American Music Hall – San Francisco, CA 2/26/2025 El Corazon – Seattle, WA 2/27/2025 Roseland Theater – Portland, OR 3/03/2025 Summit Music Hall – Denver, CO 3/05/2025 House Of Blues – Chicago, IL 3/06/2025 The Vogue – Indianapolis, IN 3/07/2025 Mr. Small’s Theatre – Pittsburgh, PA 3/08/2024 Archer Music Hall – Allentown, PA 3/09/2025 Paradise – Boston, MA 3/11/2025 Empire Live – Albany, NY 3/12/2025 The Queen – Wilmington, DE 3/13/2025 Warsaw – Brooklyn, NY 3/14/2025 The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD 3/15/2025 Hanger 1819 – Greensboro, NC 3/16/2025 Buckhead Theater – Atlanta, GA 3/17/2025 The Abbey – Orlando, FL 3/18/2025 Culture Room – Ft. Lauderdale, FL 3/20/2025 Cafe Istanbul – New Orleans, LA 3/22/2025 Beer City – Oklahoma City, OK 3/23/2025 Echo Music Hall – Dallas, TX 3/24/2025 WAVE – Wichita, KS 3/26/2025 Aztec Theater – San Antonio, TX 3/27/2025 Lowbrow Palace – El Paso, TX 3/28/2025 El Rey Theater – Albuquerque, NM 3/29/2025 Backstage Bar – Las Vegas, NV 3/30/2025 Van Buren – Phoenix, AZ
NECROT will be touring in support of their critically lauded Lifeless Birth full-length, released earlier this year via Tankcrimes. The record earned the #3 spot on Billboard’s Top New Artist chart upon its first week of release. Elsewhere, the record took the #4 position on the Current Hard Music Albums chart, #6 on the Independent Record Label chart, and more.
With Lifeless Birth, NECROT continues their ascent to the forefront of American aural extremity, pushing the boundaries of style and continuing to recast metal in their image. Founded by bassist/vocalist Luca Indrio and drummer Chad Gailey in 2011 with guitarist Sonny Reinhardt joining the following year, the Oakland, California trio offers Lifeless Birth as a culmination of their to-date efforts to encapsulate and push forward the deathly stylings of 2020’s Mortal and their 2017 debut, Blood Offerings.
Recorded with Grammy-winning producer Greg Wilkinson who has helmed all three NECROT albums and mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege, Lifeless Birth pivots fluidly between technical intricacy, progressive poise, and all-out brutality.
NECROT’s Lifeless Birth is available now via Tankcrimes, on LP in multiple vinyl variants housed in a golden foil stamped gatefold jacket HERE, on CD HERE, MC HERE, and digital HERE.
Prepare for the rise of darkness – BLACK & DAMNED are ready to set the metal community ablaze! With their unique blend of epic power metal and dark, atmospheric sounds, the South German formation is now releasing their third album, which is set to be released on March 14, 2025 under the auspicious title “Resurrection”. The band captivates with thunderous guitar riffs, intense rhythms and gripping vocals that whisk you away into a world full of myths and inner conflicts. Their music is a storm of power and emotion, perfect for anyone who wants to experience the ultimate metal rush!
“Resurrection” will be released on ROAR (Grave Digger, Mystic Prophecy, Crematory and others), with whom BLACK & DAMNED have just recently signed a new record deal. The album pre-sale has just started at this location:
A music video for the band’s first single release, the captivating track “Ruthless Wrath”, is now premiering below! Stream the song on all digital providers at:
“The content addresses the current situation of humanity,” the band comments. “That people react more and more with anger to events and statements. And this anger is then responded to with anger from the other side. Until one side escalates with volatile anger!”
It is now clear that the band from the Stuttgart area can be described as a real enrichment of the heavy metal world and so they took no prisoners, used the energy of past live shows and composed ten new neckbreakers, which they recorded in the fall of 2024 under the aegis of ex-Primal Fear guitarist Stefan Leibing. Once again, this gripping melancholy hovers over the entire work, which is incredibly captivating and addictive. BLACK & DAMNED have grown together as a unit and with “Resurrection” the band created a profound, melodic and melancholic heavy metal album with lasting anthems!
“Resurrection” track listing: 01. Silence Breaker 02. Ruthless Wrath 03. Red Heavens 04. Bound By The Moon 05. Circle Of Amnesia 06. Injustice 07. Searing Flames 08. Shadows 09. Reborn In Solitude 10. Navigate Me To The Sun
Releasing On January 10th, 2025 on Reigning Phoenix Music via its partnership with Distortion Music Group
EX DEO, the Juno nominated project of KATAKYLSM frontman Maurizio Iacono, will unleash their EP Year of the Four Emperors. The EP is their first with Reigning Phoenix Music and will be released on January 10th, 2025 exclusively on tour and through the RPM webstores. Further physical editions, including exclusive vinyl, will be released February 14th. The band will also embark on a tour of Europe In January in support of DARK FUNERAL and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE before heading to North America in the spring in support of SEPTICFLESH and VLTIMAS.
To commemorate the release announcement, the band has revealed the first single “Vespasian” along with a lyric video which can be watched HERE:
Maurizio comments about the song: “The EP’s closing track is an anthem of resilience and renewal. Vespasian emerges as a figure of stability amid the chaos, and the music reflects his calculated strength. Triumphant melodies intertwine with thunderous percussion, capturing his consolidation of power and the restoration of Rome’s fractured empire. The lyrics exalt Vespasian as the harbinger of a new era, culminating in a resounding declaration of victory and legacy. His reign ushers in the Flavian dynasty and a semblance of peace.”
1/2 Hamburg, GER Markthalle 1/3 Oberhausen, GER Turbinenhalle 2 1/5 St. Niklaas, BEL De Casino 1/7 London, UK O2 Academy Islington 1/8 Paris, FRA La Machine 1/9 Toulouse, FRA Bikini 1/10 Burgos, SPA Sala Anden 1/11 Madrid, SPA Sala del Wizink 1/12 Barcelona, SPA Razzmatazz 2 1/14 Lyon, FRA La Ryaonne 1/15 Trezzo sull’Adda, ITA Live Club 1/16 Zurich, SWI Komplex 457 1/17 Munich, GER Backstage Werk 1/18 Budapest, HUN Barba Negra 1/19 Zagreb, CRO Boogaloo 1/21 Vienna, AUT Simm City 1/22 Kosice, SLO Colloseum 1/23 Wroclaw, POL A2 1/24 Prague, CZE Meet Factory 1/25 Leipzig, GER Hellraiser 26.01.2025 NL Utrecht – TivoliVredenburg * * w/ FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE only
NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES
2/10 Houston, TX White Oak Music Hall 2/11 Dallas, TX Granada Theater 2/12 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theater 2/13 Mesa, AZ Nile Theater 2/14 San Diego, CA Brick by Brick 2/15 San Francisco, CA DNA Lounge 2/16 Los Angeles, CA 1720 2/17 Las Vegas, NV Sinwave 2/19 Denver, CO The Oriental Theater 2/20 Lawrence, KS Granada Theater 2/21 St. Paul, MN Amsterdam Bar & Hall 2/22 Joliet, IL The Forge 2/23 Cleveland, OH TempleLive Cleveland @ Asylum 2/24 Toronto, ON Concert Hall 2/26 Ottawa, ON Overflow 2/27 Montreal, QC Le Studio TD 2/28 Worcester, MA The Palladium (upstairs) 3/1 Albany, NY Empire Live 3/2 New York, NY Gramercy Theater
20TH AND 25TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR OF TO THE PAIN & STATEMENT
Nonpoint will be playing a handful of shows in January 2025, celebrating the 20th anniversary of To The Pain and the 25th anniversary of Statement. With special guests Crobot and Heartsick, this month-long run kicks off January 10th in Lakewood, Ohio. Tickets and VIP are now on sale at nonpoint.com!
1/10 – Lakewood, OH – The Roxy 1/11 – Pittsburgh, PA – Preserving Underground 1/12 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom 1/14 – Greensboro, NC – Hangar 1819 1/15 – North Chattanooga, TN – Barrelhouse Ballroom 1/17 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live 1/18 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Culture Room 1/19 – Orlando, FL – The Beacham 1/21 – Greenville, SC – Radio Room 1/22 – Virginia Beach, VA – Elevation 27 1/23 – Fredericksburg, VA – Hard Times Cafe/Four Mile Fork 1/25 – Columbus, OH – The King of Clubs
Another hot contender for taking the longest time to release new music, Hamburg’s own progressive rock/metal outfit EDEN CIRCUS are back with their new single ‘Cynics of Life‘.
10 years have now passed since the last album “Marula” by the five-piece northern German post-prog rockers EDEN CIRCUS. Since then, events have accelerated. First the band has to say goodbye to both guitarists, because Andi is leaving the band and guitarist Nils is moving to the Krupps. Not only are two important driving forces lost, but also the previous songwriting process.
After Waik and Dennis joined the band, they finally played a few gigs again and worked on the new album. Even before Covid paralyzes the entire music landscape, numerous other events turn the band’s everyday life upside down: people move, build houses and 2 1/2 recording studios, start families and new bands. Sometimes the five of them don’t see each other for weeks. But there was never any talk about quitting.
Because the rare rehearsals always clearly show that the band can still deliver. In addition, the new record is finished and, despite all the new commitments, no one has lost the joy of presenting their songs to an audience that celebrates their music on sweaty, beer-soaked club evenings. So here’s to something new!
Fresh off a massively successful North American headlining tour, KING DIAMOND offers up a brand new single, “Spider Lilly.”
“Spider Lilly” is the first single and video taken from KING DIAMOND’s forthcoming new Horror Trilogy, of which part one is titled Saint Lucifer’s Hospital 1920. A first-time mixing collaboration with Arthur Rizk, who also mastered “Spider Lilly,” has produced an incredibly powerful sound picture, as clear and dynamic as a full moon on a star filled black night. The music and lyrics are written by KING DIAMOND.
The lineup is still the same with King Diamond handling lead and backing vocals plus playing the Hammond Organ, Andy La Rocque and Mike Wead on guitars, Pontus Egberg on the bass, and Matt Thompson on drums. There is also a special guest appearance by Danish female vocalist Myrkur with some amazing additional backing vocals.
Part of the new “Spider Lilly” video was filmed at the very haunted Pennhurst Asylum outside of Philadelphia on a travel day during the band’s recent North American tour, two days before Halloween. It was only King himself and actress Jodi Cachia who could participate on that specific day, together with producer David Brodsky, Allison Woest, and their killer crew.
Watch KING DIAMOND’s video for “Spider Lilly,” directed by My Good Eye Visuals, HERE.
“What a dark but great experience,” King says, “Hopefully that was not the last video we will be able to film there.”
There are already several tales waiting to be told about all that has happened before, during, and after the birth of the song “Spider Lilly”…
About KING DIAMOND:
KING DIAMOND is quite possibly the most recognizable and prolific personality ever in heavy metal. Revered by icons as big as Metallica and Pantera and inspiring newer upstarts globally, KING DIAMOND, the man and the band, have left an indelible mark on the history, and now again, the future of heavy metal.
In August of 2008, KING DIAMOND joined Metallica on stage at Ozzfest in Dallas to perform the Mercyful Fate medley made famous from the Garage, Inc. album. Additionally, KING DIAMOND was featured alongside Motӧrhead’s Lemmy Kilmister as a playable character in Guitar Hero: Metallica in 2009.
By 2012, KING DIAMOND was prepared to return to the stage for a select number of shows. The band’s triumphant return to the stage were the highlights of both the Hellfest and Sweden Rock festivals in France and Sweden. Fans at these festivals were treated to the largest and most involved stage production in the band’s storied history. Horror concepts from multiple albums were used in the décor; fans can rest assured that this show will only get larger and more impressive at future performances.
KING DIAMOND continued to hit the stage from 2013 to 2018 including performances at Rock Hard Festival (DE), Copenhell (DK), Graspop (BE), Metal Days (SI), Bloodstock Open Air (UK), Loudpark (JP), Wacken Open Air (DE), a 2014 North American tour with Jess And The Ancient Ones, Fun Fun Fun Fest (US), toured as a part of the 2015 Mayhem Festival in the Summer (US), a Fall 2015 North American tour with Exodus as special guests, Sweden Rock fest (SE), Hellfest (FR),and Psycho Las Vegas (US).
In 2019, after the release of KING DIAMOND’s first new single in twelve years, “Masquerade Of Madness,” the band hit the road with a series of live shows in Europe including stops at Summer Breeze festival (DE), Graspop (BE), Hellfest (FR), Rock Fest (ES), and with Uncle Acid & the Deadbeats and Idle Hands as special guests for nineteen dates across North America.
KING DIAMOND’s thirty+ year musical career is one of the most storied in the history of heavy metal, but the tale is not yet over. The most recent release, 2007′s Grammy nominated album Give Me Your Soul…Please, stands as one of the most critically acclaimed albums in an already iconic discography. Future albums will feature entirely new horror stories, concepts, haunting orchestrations, and the band’s signature brand of heavy metal from the mind of KING DIAMOND and the talented group of musicians: guitarists Andy La Rocque and Mike Wead, bassist Pontus Egberg, and drummer Matt Thompson. Many more albums, tours, and ventures lay ahead.
“The Plague That Burns The Sky” BRAINSTORM + ARION Co-Headline Tour 2025 w/ STRANGER VISION Presented by Rock Hard, musix, metal.de, powermetal.de, Decibel-Touring & RPM
27.02.2025 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 28.02.2025 CH Solothurn – Kulturfabrik Kofmehl 01.03.2025 DE Essen – Turock 02.03.2025 DE Mannheim – 7er Club 03.03.2025 DE Munich – Backstage (Halle) 04.03.2025 DE Hamburg – Bahnhof Pauli 05.03.2025 DE Hanover – MusikZentrum 06.03.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann
08.03.2025 NL Harderwijk – Estrado 09.03.2025 NL Gouda – StudioGonz 05. – 08.06.2025 DE Oettingen i. Bay. – Camping Battleground Festival 24.08.2025 PL Pindelo dos Milagres – Milagre Metaleiro Open Air
About BRAINSTORM:
BRAINSTORM boasts an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debut, Hungry, the band has continued to evolve and solidify their position in the international metal scene with standout albums like Metus Mortis (2001), Soul Temptation (2003), Liquid Monster (2005), and more recent releases such as Midnight Ghost (2018) and Wall of Skulls (2021). Having toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, BRAINSTORM remains as determined as ever to set new milestones instead of resting on their laurels.
MARCH TREK PRECEDES MONUMENTAL “SAVAGE IMPERIAL DEATH MARCH PART II” TOUR WITH NAPALM DEATH
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 16, 2024 – The Melvins, who only recently announced a staggering number of U.S. tour dates for 2025, have slated a March trek across the Golden State, with the Los Angeles-based outfit playing six shows across California, dubbed the “Spring Break” Tour.
Tickets for the newly announced dates are on-sale this Friday at 10 a.m. pacific time, with an artist pre-sale (code: SPRINGBREAK!) starting on Wednesday at 10 a.m. pacific. CNTS and Desslok open on all dates.
Buzz Osborne shared: “California! Here we go! There’s no better time to crisscross the state. Let’s do it!”
The Melvins, photo credit: Chris Casella
The trek sees the Melvins touring as a four-piece with Dale Crover returning after a medical emergency sidelined him in 2023. Joining Crover behind the kit is Big Business’ Coady Willis joining Crover for a rare double-drum extravaganza.
The Melvins’ previously announced “Savage Imperial Death March Part II” sees the addition of two dates: April 12 at Swan Dive in Las Vegas and May 11 at Globe Iron in Cleveland. Tickets for the full run of “Death March” dates are on-sale now. Openers include Weedeater (April 4-May 5), Titan To Tachyons featuring Mr. Bungle’s Trevor Dunn (May 7- 20), The Hard-Ons with Jerry A (May 22-June 7), and Shane Embury’s Dark Sky Burial, who will perform on all dates.
The Spring Break Tour:
March 1 Bakersfield, CA The Nile Theater March 2 Fresno, CA Strummer’s March 3 Sacramento, CA Goldfield Trading Post March 4 Santa Cruz, CA The Catalyst Atrium March 5 San Luis Obispo, CA SLO Brew Rock March 7 Pioneertown, CA Pappy & Harriet’s
Marking the 40th anniversary of ACCEPT’s iconic album, Balls To The Wall, founding member and former frontman Udo Dirkschneider is reinterpreting this classic with a fresh and star-studded twist. Far from a simple remake, this project was born out of countless conversations with prominent artists across the global rock and metal scene, who frequently asked: “Are you planning anything special for the 40th anniversary of Balls To The Wall?”
These discussions sparked the idea to re-record the album’s legendary tracks alongside a stellar lineup of guest musicians, transforming the project into a heartfelt tribute. For both Dirkschneider and the participating artists, this endeavor is more than a celebration – it’s a homage to one of heavy metal’s most groundbreaking albums.
The reimagined Balls To The Wall features an impressive roster of talent, breathing new life into each track:
01. Balls To The Wall [feat. Joakim Brodén of SABATON] 02. London Leatherboys [feat. Biff Byford of SAXON] 03. Fight It Back [feat. Mille Petrozza of KREATOR] 04. Head Over Heels [feat. Nils Molin of DYNAZTY/AMARANTHE] 05. Losing More Than You’ve Ever Had [feat. Michael Kiske of HELLOWEEN] 06. Love Child [feat. Ylva Eriksson of BROTHERS OF METAL] 07. Turn Me On [feat. Danko Jones] 08. Losers And Winners [feat. Dee Snider of TWISTED SISTER] 09. Guardian Of The Night [feat. Tim “Ripper” Owens, formerly of JUDAS PRIEST] 10. Winter Dreams [feat. Doro Pesch]
This ambitious reinterpretation not only revitalises the original tracks but also underscores their timeless impact on the metal genre. More than a revival, this project serves as a celebration of the album’s enduring legacy, enriched by the enthusiasm and contributions of some of metal’s most influential voices.
“Re-recording “Balls To The Wall” was a big challenge for me. The album is a milestone of my career, of course, that’s why it was even more important to me to make the original songs shine in a new light without losing their initial essence. All guests have put their individual stamps on these classic tracks, and collaborating with such outstanding vocalists has moved them into a fresh and exciting dimension. The result is a powerful homage to all fans but also an invitation to the next generation to experience the songs not minorly passionate than I was when I recorded them back in the day. It’s a never-ending personal journey for me – “Balls To The Wall” will always be a part of me,” states Udo.
RPM managing director Jochen Richert expresses his excitement: “This masterpiece has accompanied me for almost my entire life. When Udo first told me about his idea, my initial thought was, ‘Can this really work?’ But as soon as he mentioned the first guest singers, I knew it would be great. When I finally got to hear the tracks, I was blown away. My nostalgic side cautioned me, ‘No, you can’t like this better than the original.’ But there’s no use denying it, I have to admit it’s at least as good as the 1983 recordings – if not better! Accordingly, it’s an incredible honour to be able to contribute to this opus.”
This reimagined Balls To The Wall is a fitting tribute to heavy metal history, proving that its power and influence remain as potent today as they were four decades ago. Don’t miss your chance to own this extraordinary celebration of a true classic. Pre-order here: https://dirkschneider.rpm.link/bttwrPR
We are very pleased to give you our 2025 show schedule so far:
16 Apr // BR, Brasília // Arena of Rock 19 Apr // BR, São Paulo // Monsters of Rock 24 Apr // CL, Santiago // Masters of Rock 30 Apr // CO, Cota // Monsters of Rock
24 May // NO, Kopervik // Kopervik Festival 07 Jun // FR, Maxeville // Heavy Weekend 21 Jun // NO, Steinkjer // Steinkjer Festival 28 Jun // SE, Nyköping // Hamnplan 03 Jul // SE, Borlänge // Alive Festival 06 Jul // ES, Chiclana // Concert Music Festival 08 Jul // ES, Marbella // Starlite Festival 10 Jul // ES, Murcia // Plaza de Toros de Murcia 15 Jul // IT, Bologna // Sequioe Music Park 16 Jul // IT, Altidona // Wondergate Music Festival 25 Jul // SE, Vadstena // Vadstena Slott 26 July // NO, Tønsberg // Foynhagen Concert Series Honørbrygga 01 Aug // SE, Karlskrona // Karlskrona Skärgårdsfest 02 Aug // SE, Arvika // Hamnfest
WHITECHAPEL will return to North American stages this Spring on a month-long headlining tour! The Hymns In Dissonance Tour runs from March 18th in Raleigh, North Carolina through April 19th in Atlanta, Georgia. Support will be provided by Brand Of Sacrifice, 200 Stab Wounds, and Alluvial. The journey follows WHITECHAPEL’s recent sold out run with Lorna Shore.
Comments WHITECHAPEL’s Alex Wade, “We are excited to announce the Hymns In Dissonance Tour taking place in Spring of 2025. This will be our first headlining tour on our new album cycle and we are looking forward to playing some new songs live for everyone. The lineup is diverse with upcoming modern deathcore band Brand Of Sacrifice, 200 Stab Wounds bringing the old school death metal flavor, and Alluvial contributing a heavy progressive sound to the tour. Grab your tickets now and witness as we embark on a new chapter for WHITECHAPEL.”
Local presales begin on Thursday, December 19th at 10:00am local time. General on sale date is Friday, December 20th at 10:00am local time. See all confirmed dates below.
WHITECHAPEL w/ Brand Of Sacrifice, 200 Stab Wounds, Alluvial: 3/18/2025 The Ritz – Raleigh, NC 3/19/2025 Baltimore Soundstage – Baltimore, MD 3/20/2025 Theatre Of Living Arts – Philadelphia, PA 3/21/2025 The Palladium – Worcester, MA 3/22/2025 Starland Ballroom – Sayreville, NJ 3/24/2025 L’Olympia – Montreal, QC 3/25/2025 Danforth Music Hall – Toronto, ON 3/26/2025 Saint Andrew’s Hall – Detroit, MI 3/28/2025 House Of Blues – Chicago, IL 3/29/2025 Varsity Theater – Minneapolis, MN 3/30/2025 Bourbon Theatre – Lincoln, NE 4/01/2025 Summit – Denver, CO 4/02/2025 The Grand @ The Complex – Salt Lake City, UT 4/04/2025 The Palace Theatre – Calgary, AB 4/05/2025 Union Hall – Edmonton, AB 4/07/2025 The Pearl – Vancouver, BC 4/08/2025 Roseland Theater – Portland, OR 4/09/2025 The Showbox – Seattle, WA 4/11/2025 Ace Of Spades – Sacramento, CA 4/12/2025 The Observatory – Santa Ana, CA 4/13/2025 Nile Theater – Mesa, AZ 4/15/2025 The Studio @ The Factory – Dallas, TX 4/16/2025 Aztec Theatre – San Antonio, TX 4/18/2025 The Orpheum – Tampa, FL 4/19/2025 The Masquerade (Heaven) – Atlanta, GA
WHITECHAPEL released their standalone single, “A Visceral Retch,” in September. Relentlessly slamming, ominous, and punishing, the track delivers a dark, twisted theme about gluttonous overlords who test the lengths to which humans will go to survive and join their cult.
WHITECHAPEL: Phil Bozeman – vocals Ben Savage – lead guitar Alex Wade – rhythm guitar Zach Householder – guitar Gabe Crisp – bass Brandon Zackey – drums
We can’t wait to celebrate the 40th anniversary of ‘Balls to the Wall’ together with you in 2025! This will be a historic and electrifying event so make sure to grab your tickets now before they are gone!
“Balls To The Wall” – 40th Anniversary Tour w/ CROWNSHIFT, ALL FOR METAL Presented by Contra Promotion & Metal Hammer 25.02.2025 HR Zagreb – Boogaloo * NEW 26.02.2025 AT Vienna – SiMM City 27.02.2025 DE Munich – Backstage LOW TICKETS 28.02.2025 DE Leipzig – Haus Auensee LOW TICKETS 01.03.2025 CZ Prague – SaSaZu 02.03.2025 HU Budapest – Barba Negra 04.03.2025 RO Bucharest – Quantic Club 06.03.2025 PL Kraków – Klub Studio 07.03.2025 PL Warsaw – Progresja 08.03.2025 LT Vilnius – Kablys 09.03.2025 EE Tallinn – Helitehas NEW 10.03.2025 FI Helsinki – Kulttuuritalo 11.03.2025 FI Tampere – Tavara-asema 13.03.2025 NO Oslo – Rockefeller 14.03.2025 SE Gothenburg – Trädgår’n 16.03.2025 DE Berlin – Huxleys Neue Welt 17.03.2025 DE Frankfurt – Batschkapp 18.03.2025 BE Antwerp – Trix 19.03.2025 FR Paris – Le Trabendo 21.03.2025 ES Pamplona – Sala Totem 22.03.2025 ES Madrid – Mon MOVED 23.03.2025 ES Barcelona – Razzmatazz 2 25.03.2025 CH Pratteln – Konzertfabrik Z7 26.03.2025 DE Stuttgart – LKA Longhorn SOLD OUT 27.03.2025 DE Oberhausen – Turbinenhalle 28.03.2025 DE Hamburg – Große Freiheit 36 29.03.2025 DE Geiselwind – Eventhalle LOW TICKETS 30.03.2025 DE Geiselwind – Eventhalle NEW 08.04.2025 GR Athens – Fuzz Live Music Club * NEW 09.04.2025 GR Thessaloniki – Principal Club Theater * NEW 11.04.2025 TR Istanbul – IF Performance Hall Beşiktaş * NEW 12.04.2025 BG Sofia – Hristo Botev Hall * NEW
DIRKSCHNEIDER only
30.07. – 02.08.2025 DE Wacken – Wacken Open Air SOLD OUTNEW
Faroe Islands-based folk metal collective TÝR will return to North American stages this Winter on the second leg of the Battle Ballads tour! The journey will commence on February 13th in Brooklyn, New York and close on March 5th in Joliet, Illinois. Additional support will be provided again by Æther Realm.
Comments TÝR vocalist/guitarist Heri Joensen, “If it were only up to us, the band, we’d play for you all, everywhere, in a heartbeat, if only we could. On our last North American run, we got a lot of requests about playing in this and that city that was not on our route. We’re very happy that this time we get to do a second round visiting a lot of those cities that our dear fans requested. Get your tickets early. It would be a shame if we miss you. And since the VIP upgrade experience went down well last time, we decided to do it again, so we can hang out together and play an acoustic show for you.”
TÝR w/ Æther Realm: 2/13/2025 Brooklyn Monarch – Brooklyn, NY 2/14/2025 Broken Goblet – Bensalem, PA 2/15/2025 Hooligans – Jacksonville, NC 2/16/2025 The Orpheum – Tampa, FL 2/18/2025 Southport Hall – New Orleans, LA 2/19/2025 House Of Rock – Corpus Christi, TX 2/20/2025 89th Street Collective – Oklahoma City, OK 2/21/2025 Launchpad – Albuquerque, NM 2/22/2025 The Marquis – Denver, CO 2/26/2025 Constellation Room – Santa Ana, CA 2/27/2025 Whisky-A-Go-Go – West Hollywood, CA 2/28/2025 Goldfield Trading Post – Roseville, CA 3/01/2025 Metro Music Hall – Salt Lake City, UT 3/02/2025 The Black Sheep – Colorado Springs, CO 3/03/2025 The Granada – Lawrence, KS 3/04/2025 Amsterdam Bar & Hall – St. Paul, MN 3/05/2025 The Forge – Joliet, IL
Battle Ballads, TÝR’s outstanding ninth full-length studio album, was released earlier this year on Metal Blade Records.
A crushing, soaring, batch of classical embellished songs that conjure images of galloping steeds, clashing swords, and hard-fought victories, with Battle Ballads, TÝR has composed an album that resounds with their trademark Viking metal sound. At the same time, the band has experimented with new writing styles and musical techniques and created songs that are structurally simpler, yet musically more variegated. There’s no escaping the masterfully meticulous blend of melody and savagery on Battle Ballads.
TÝR: Heri Joensen – vocal, guitar Hans Hammer – guitar Gunnar Helmer “Gunz” Thomsen – bass Tadeusz “Tad” Rieckmann – drums
Finnish hard rock and metal legends LORDI are set to release their highly anticipated 19th studio album, Limited Deadition, on March 21, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). The album is spearheaded by the electrifying lead single, “Syntax Terror,” a track that thrusts listeners into a game-like world with spacy melodies, thunderous riffs, and irresistibly catchy hooks.
Mr Lordi comments: “The writing of this song started out with its main keyboard riff. I played around with those mono sounds, trying to come up with something with a very 80s action movie opening score feel. ‘Syntax Terror’ actually almost became the album title, but then it was discovered that other people have had the same idea way before I did. On the verses I was thinking of JUDAS PRIEST, on the chorus of MANOWAR and – as icing on the cake – Udo Dirkschneider-type of screams to belch out the title. Don’t ask what the lyrics are about. ‘Syntax Terror’ is a very 80s heavy metal style song, painting abstract pictures with every line!”
Already generating excitement among fans, the single promises to be a highlight in LORDI‘s monstrous catalog. Pre-orders are available here: https://lordi.rpm.link/limiteddeaditionPR
Known for their theatrical style and unique blend of 80s-inspired rock and heavy metal, LORDI‘s latest creation is a nostalgic celebration of retro 80s toys, infused with a fresh and powerful energy. Building on the success of their 2023 album Screem Writers Guild,Limited Deadition ventures into heavier riffs and faster tempos, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and invigorating.
Recorded at IluSound Studio and Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Limited Deaditionwas produced by Mr Lordi, mixed by Ilkka Herkman, and mastered by Pauli Saastamoinen. As always, Mr Lordi took charge of the album’s striking artwork and layout, channeling his passion for 80s memorabilia into every detail. “It’s some kind of sibling album to its predecessor,” Mr Lordi explains. “We’re still walking the path of AOR-inspired music, but this time, with a more metal touch in terms of riffs and tempo. We’ve always written what felt right and natural, and this album is no exception.”
The thematic heart of Limited Deadition lies in Mr Lordi’s lifelong obsession with collecting, inspired by the action figures and toys of his childhood. “The album topic of 80s toys is actually just a loose theme, but it’s been accompanying me since I was little. I’ve always been a collector of various stuff, and I’m even some kind of a hoarder. I can’t even remember which my first own toy was, but my obsession basically started with “Muppet Show” dolls, followed by “Star Wars” and “E.T.” figures, with the latter actually being my favourite movie of all time.”
The album opens with “SCG XIX The Hexecutioners,” setting the stage for an exciting blend of cinematic and melodic heavy rock. Tracks like “Legends Are Made Of Clichés” and “Skelephant In The Room” highlight LORDI‘s knack for creating larger-than-life anthems. Meanwhile, the poignant ballad “Collectable” reflects on the fleeting value of physical objects in a digital world, while the title track, Limited Deadition, makes a bold statement celebrating collectors and their passion.
To support the release, LORDI will embark on a global Limited Deadition tour, beginning in Finland and expanding internationally. Fans can expect a monstrous spectacle, complete with new tricks and surprises.
Limited Deadition will be available on all major streaming platforms and in physical formats on March 21, 2025. Pre-orders for the album and tour tickets are now live. With the explosive single “Syntax Terror” already setting the tone, fans can prepare for an unforgettable addition to the LORDIverse.
Get ready to unleash the monster within – Limited Deadition is coming!
LORDI are: Mr Lordi | vocals Kone | guitars Hiisi | bass Hella | keyboard Mana | drums
LORDI live:
21.03.2025 FI Tampere – Tavara-asema 22.03.2025 FI Helsinki – Tavastia-klubi 25.03.2025 PL Warsaw – Progresja 26.03.2025 PL Gdansk – B90 28.03.2025 NL Amstelveen – P60 29.03.2025 NL Drachten – Poppoadium Iduna 30.03.2025 NL Sittard – Poppodium Volt 02.04.2025 UK Wolverhampton – Wulfrun Hall 03.04.2025 UK Newcastle – NX 05.04.2025 UK Manchester – Academy 2 06.04.2025 UK Glasgow – Galvanizers SWG3 08.04.2025 UK London – Islington Assembly Hall 09.04.2025 UK Bristol – SWX 11.04.2025 FR Savigny-le-Temple – L’Empreinte 12.04.2025 FR Saint-Lô – Le Normandy 13.04.2025 BE Sint-Niklaas – De Casino 15.04.2025 FR Lyon (Villeurbanne) – La Rayonne 16.04.2025 FR Strasbourg (Ostwald) – Le Point d’Eau 17.04.2025 FR Montbéliard – L’Axone
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