Kraków (PL) – WillowtipRecords has signed Polish Death Metal duo DORMANT ORDEAL! The band is preparing to enter the studio soon to record what will be their first album for the label and the fourth overall, following 2021’s The Grand Scheme of Things (Selfmadegod Records).
The band released the following statement concerning the signing:
“We’re honored to announce the signing of a worldwide deal with Willowtip Records. Many great releases that we personally hold in high regard have been featured on this label and we are thrilled to be joining the roster. We truly appreciate the trust Willowtip have placed in us – can’t wait to start this chapter!
We’re planning on going into the studio in the upcoming weeks to record our fourth album. We may be the worst reviewers of our own music, but one thing we can say for sure – it is more ‘us’ than ever. The successor to 2021’s ‘The Grand Scheme of Things’ is planned to be released later this year.”
By Norse Music is proud to celebrate Record Store Day on April 20th with two very special releases. The label will release a new edition of Wardruna’s ‘Skald’ album, which features two bonus tracks, including “Voluspá,” performed live with Eivør & Danish National Symphony Orchestra and the orchestral version of “Voluspá” with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.
The second release is Enslaved’s iconic album ‘Vikingligr Veldi,’ which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Both deluxe editions were entirely redesigned by Bartek Rogalewicz (Behemoth, Enslaved) and offer special high-end details that will ravish the fans and collector.
Wardruna – Skald details:
350g gatefold printed on reverse board
Red metallic ink and spot UV varnish
2LP 180g Voluspa red
12 pages full size booklet including English translations
2LP premium edition carefully restored and redesigned by Bartek Rogalewicz/Lodge. Black. First time in a gatefold 2LP format for a superior audio quality.
Enslaved – Vikingligr Veldi details:
350g gatefold printed on reverse board
metallic inks and spot UV varnish
2LP 180g Aurora Borealis green
30th Anniversary premium edition carefully restored and redesigned by Bartek Rogalewicz/Lodge. Black. Includes additional illustrations by Zbigniew M. Bielak and Bartek Rogalewicz.
Both editions will be available in Germany, USA and Canada only, starting April 20 in the participating stores. Get more information at recordstoreday.com.
First Single “Silent Winter” Out Now + Music Video — Watch HERE
2024 launches with a bang thanks to the announcement of ‘The Quantum Phase’, the highly anticipated new record from supergroup THE END MACHINE. The announcement signals a notable change in personnel as well. Singer Robert Mason has officially parted ways with the group, paving the way for GirishPradhan, the rising superstar vocalist known for his work under the moniker Girish And The Chronicles and, more recently, with Joel Hoekstra’s 13.
The addition of Girish Pradhan to the band is a testament to the keen discernment of SerafinoPerugino, president, and founder of Frontiers Records. Perugino, who serves as the executive producer for THE END MACHINE, recognized the incredible talent and potential in Pradhan and brought him to the attention of the band.
To herald this fantastic change and new album, THE END MACHINE shares their first single off of ‘The Quantum Phase,’ entitled “Silent Winter.” The track is accompanied by a new music video.
Jeff Pilson comments on the new track: “‘Silent Winter’ is a song about the bleak prospects for humanity if we keep on our current trajectory. ‘Quantum Phase’ – the album – deals with what we must do to change course.”
Check Out the Music Video for “Silent Winter” HERE.
Established in 2018, THE END MACHINE released their eponymous debut album, ‘The End Machine,’ in 2019 bringing early acclaim for not only contemporary production and a modern attitude, but also their perfectly crafted songs, paying homage to their roots and the music that they love. This attitude and talent was equally on display with their 2021 sophomore album, ‘Phase2’.
In delivering 2024’s ‘The Quantum Phase,’ THE END MACHINE has not only surpassed expectations but has penned the record of their lives! With each note and lyric, they have exceeded their own artistic aspirations, collectively crafting the album they always wished they had written. This monumental work stands as a testament to THE END MACHINE’s evolution, showcasing not only their musical prowess but also their unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of their creative expression.
Band Members: George Lynch Girish Pradhan Steve Brown Jeff Pilson
Track-list:
1) Black Hole Extinction 2) Silent Winter 3) Killer of the Night 4) Hell or High Water 5) Stand Up 6) Burning Man 7) Shattered Glass Heart 8) Time 9) Hunted 10) Stranger in the Mirror 11) Into the Blazing Sun
Produced By: Jeff Pilson for Pilsound Music Inc Studio: Pilsound Studios, Santa Clarita CA Recorded By: Jeff Pilson and Girish Pradhan, additional engineering: Olivia Pilson Mixed By: Alessandro Del Vecchio Mastered By: Alessandro Del Vecchio
Anniversary Live Album & Blu-Ray! 2024 marks twenty years of BLOODBOUND. Twenty years in which the Swedish power metal export has left a lasting impression on fans and the worldwide metal scene. The band can call ten studio albums their own, as well as numerous frenetically-acclaimed festival appearances and tours. Last year alone, the band played a major gig at Masters of Rock Festival, which is featured on their upcoming anniversary live album and Blu-Ray, entitled “The Tales of Nosferatu – Two Decades of Blood (2004 – 2024)”!
With songs like “Nosferatu”, “The Warlock’s Trail”, “Battle in the Sky”, or new songs of the band’s discography like “Drink with the Gods”, BLOODBOUND – who were formed in 2004 by keyboard player Fredrik Bergh and guitarist Tomas Olsson – have quickly established their sound in the world of heavy music. Not only because of their immense talent, but also because of their own affiliation to the metal scene, a dedication that comes with it and the skills to write incredibly good power metal songs.
“What a ride it has been! 10 studio albums, shows in over 25 countries and chart entries from all over the world. When I look back at the last 20 years, I can only say how proud I am of what we have created!”Fredrik Bergh comments. “We’re super excited to celebrate 20 years of Bloodbound with this release – together with YOU – our fans! Without you we’re nothing!”
In support, BLOODBOUND are now premiering a single taken off “The Tales of Nosferatu – Two Decades of Blood”. The anniversary live version of the band’s classic “The Warlock’s Trail” is out now on all digital services and is now streaming HERE.
Their first studio album, “Nosferatu”, was released in 2005, followed by nine more offerings such as “Creatures of the Dark Realm”, “Rise of the Dragon Empire” or “Tales from the North”. Since two decades, the BLOODBOUND bandwagon is unstoppable! To celebrate their special birthday in 2024, and while BLOODBOUND have also made a name for themselves as a great, highly entertaining live act, “The Tales of Nosferatu – Two Decades of Blood” will be the perfect proof to that.
This live album and Blu-Ray perfectly reflect the highlights of their career and high-voltage stage energy. In addition to the entire Masters of Rock show, the Blu-Ray also includes excerpts from a past Japan performance and all of BLOODBOUND‘s music videos released to date.
As a special and unique gift to their dedicated fanbase, the upcoming BLOODBOUND release will also include a comic, which was created by long-time companion and designer Péter Sallai. It tells the story of how the band’s mascot Nossen came to be; tastefully illustrated and with a story tailored to the band and their songs, this work is an absolute must-have piece of art!
BLOODBOUNDLine-Up: Patrik J. Selleby (Vocals) Tomas Olsson (Guitars) Henrik Olsson (Guitars) Anders Broman (Bass) Fredrik Bergh (Keyboards) Daniel Sjögren (Drums)
Live Album Tracklist: 01 – Bloodtale 02 – Tales from the North 03 – Slayer of Kings 04 – In the Name of Metal 05 – When Fate is Calling 06 – A New Era Begins 07 – Battle in the Sky 08 – Drink with the Gods 09 – The Warlock’s Trail 10 – Moria 11 – Creatures of the Dark Realm 12 – Rise of the Dragon Empire 13 – Nosferatu
Blu-Ray: BR 01 – Bloodtale BR 02 – Tales from the North BR 03 – Slayer of Kings BR 04 – In the Name of Metal BR 05 – When Fate is Calling BR 06 – A New Era Begins BR 07 – Battle in the Sky BR 08 – Drink with the Gods BR 09 – The Warlock’s Trail BR 10 – Moria BR 11 – Creatures of the Dark Realm BR 12 – Rise of the Dragon Empire BR 13 – Nosferatu BR 14 – Made of Steel BR 15 – Bloodtale BR 16 – Battle in the Sky BR 17 – Dragons are Forever BR 18 – Rise of the Dragon Empire BR 19 – Tales from the North BR 20 – Drink with the Gods BR 21 – Creatures Of The Dark Realm BR 22 – Rise Of The Dragon Empire BR 23 – Battle In The Sky BR 24 – Stormborn BR 25 – In The Name Of Metal
Exclusive Special Limited Edition 2LP Gatefold Colored Vinyl Reissue With Personal Liner Notes
Record Store Day began in 2008, and since many fans and retailers look forward to the annual event celebrating independent record stores and the numerous exclusive releases issued on the special day. This year RSD will be April 20th and M-Theory Audio is proud to represent again with a special vinyl reissue and we are pleased to bring you a limited edition 2LP colored vinyl reissue from Bay Area Thrashers FORBIDDEN for their 2010 comeback album, ‘Omega Wave.’
Limited to 1000 copies, this double album will be presented on clear vinyl, one with blue splatter and the other record red splatter, to reflect the colors in Kent Mathieu’s (Exodus, Possessed, Autopsy) stunning artwork of the crystal skull with the red and blue flying skulls reminiscent of his work on FORBIDDEN’s 1988 debut.
Additionally, this gatefold 2LP will include a 4-page insert featuring lengthy and personal liner notes from guitarist Craig Locicero recalling the era when the band reformed, wrote and recorded this cherished effort along with an extra band photo from Alex Solca and revamped layout by FORBIDDEN fan and Metal Church/Ross the Boss singer Marc Lopes.
‘Omega Wave’ marks a significant time as it was FORBIDDEN’s first comeback as original members Craig Locicero, bassist Matt Camacho and singer Russ Anderson regrouped and created a new album, their first since 1997’s ‘Green,’ with new members guitarist Steve Smyth (Testament, Nevermore, Vicious Rumors) and drummer Mark Hernandez (Vio-lence, Heathen, Defiance), which saw the group sign to Nuclear Blast Records and tour to support the album before hibernating again. Many regard ‘Omega Wave’ as an unheralded masterpiece and a record worth further investigation hence the value of bringing the effort back and making it available once more.
“In our opinion, ‘Omega Wave’ may be Forbidden’s strongest and most complete effort. That’s no disrespect to our first four offerings and the amazingly talented musicians that contributed to them. Those are all untouchable in their time,” states guitarist Craig Locicero. “After the years off, we had clear perspective and a new inspiration to make the best possible thrash record we could. We feel that we accomplished it.”
“Now we are very excited to have ‘Omega Wave’ re-released with a special two record, colored vinyl release and new packaging though M-Theory Audio. This ultra-limited special edition will be available on 4-20-24. Record Store Day! Get yours while you can.”
Additionally the timing of this is even more apparent considering FORBIDDEN premiered again in 2023 with a series of live shows and a further revamped lineup now featuring Craig, Matt, Steve and new singer Norman Skinner (Niviane, Imagika) and drummer Chris Kontos (Machine Head, Testament, Verbal Abuse). The group has met with tremendous renewed interest and performed several prestigious live dates with many more high-profile festivals on this year’s calendar including Hell’s Heroes, OmegaFest, Maryland Deathfest and Brutal Assault. Writing continues on FORBIDDEN’s forthcoming sixth album.
‘Omega Wave’ will be exclusively at indie record stores as part of the Record Store Day celebration. Check in with your local retailer and let them know you’re interested. Find stores and more information at recordstoreday.com
We are thrilled to announce that we have signed a new record deal with Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM) for our upcoming studio album!
RPM proudly comments on the signing: “It is a true milestone for Reigning Phoenix Music to welcome HELLOWEEN to our family of artists. HELLOWEEN is not just a band, they epitomize the energy and passion of power metal. Their music has inspired generations, and we are proud to collaborate in order to reach new heights.”
As for us, we are equally enthusiastic about the new partnership: “Sven Bogner and his team have convinced us with their ideas and enthusiasm. They live and love metal, and this is what connects us – we look forward to be working with them!” explains Andi Deris.
Specifically, we will start working on new material from the summer and are planning to release a new studio album in 2025. Stay tuned, pumpkinheads!
Dark electronic quartet TVINNA from Germany are releasing their powerful single “Fortress”. The track is taken from their new upcoming album ‘Two – Wings of Ember’ which will be released via By Norse soon: 23rd of February 2024.
Knowing TVINNA and the importance of their strong lyrics and its symbolism, “Fortress” too is a song that resonates with one’s inner strength.
Vocalist Laura explains: “”Fortress“ is our ode to the female creation, trying to capture the vast forces of nature into tender words, which are showing the maternal creator both caressing and powerful. The words of the chorus are dated in 814 and slightly changed so it’s no longer a prayer to god, but the mother god-like speaking to have built the skies and earth, vowing her protection.”
The song is accompanied by an enchanting music video which can be viewed HERE and listen to the track on your preferred platform HERE.
Artwork, tracklist and album details can be found below. Pre-order ‘Two – Wings of Ember’ HERE
Artwork by: Concept & Model: Laura Fella Concept & Photography: Sam Evans Composition & Graphic Design: Fieke van den Hurk
Tracklist: 1. Nénuphar (02:16) 2. Dawn Of Mine (04:05) 3. Louga (feat. Fabienne Erni) (03:33) 4. Irwahhên (04:06) 5. Arma (04:46) 6. Wings Of Ember (05:00) 7. Somnia (06:46) 8. Two Staves (05:01) 9. Fortress (03:58) 10. The Fall (06:06) 11. Der Weg (03:17)
Laura Fella: Vocals, Synthesizer, Shaman Drum, Electronics, Beats (Faun) Rafael Fella: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Bass Guitar, Electronics (Eluveitie) Alain Ackermann: Drums (Eluveitie) Sascha van der Meer: Backing Vocals (Solarcycles)
TVINNA live:
23.05.2024 – Hamburg, Hebebühne, DE 24.05.2024 – Leipzig, Naumanns, DE 25.05.2024 – München, Backstage Club, DE
Massive guitar riffs blaze out of melancholic, mystical dark folk mists, rhythmic throbbing ignites soulful hymns -expressive, progressive and deeply emotional at their core. Analogue sound elements meander playfully through tightly woven melodic arcs and spherical rock waves, unleashed and captivating at the same time. Everything comes together, melts and culminates in a rewarding ritual, the second TVINNA album “Two -Wings Of Ember”.
“Where there is light, there is also darkness. This duality pulsates in each of our songs, it is a big part of our very own perception and aesthetics. By letting the darkness shine, we hope to see the light shine brighter.” (Laura Fella)
Following the release of their latest, much acclaimed studio album Firestar, German power metal force IRON SAVIOR has unleashed a furious, new single entitled “Raising Hell”! Firestar was released in October 2023 via AFM Records, and is available at THIS LOCATION!
“Those were the days When Metal came out ways Making me stronger Day by day We’ve been the warriors To rule the gleaming city lights Metal on our minds We’re raising hell”
Sings IRON SAVIOR frontman, Piet Sielck, but give ear and listen to “Raising Hell”, now premiering and available on all digital services at: https://iron-savior.bfan.link/raising-hell
Order the album, a must-have record that belongs into every well-sorted power metal collection, at https://bfan.link/firestar
CROWBAR has announced their latest round of US headlining dates, confirming a two-week Spring run from March 30th through April 14th, with support from Morbid Visionz. The tour will see CROWBAR performing a special set of songs from their Crowbar and Odd Fellows Rest albums as part of the annual Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest in Philadelphia on April 12th. On April 13th, the band will play a Rocks Off Concert Cruise at Skyport Marina in New York City. Tickets are on sale now. See all confirmed dates below.
CROWBAR w/ Morbid Visionz: 3/30/2024 Southport Hall – New Orleans, LA 4/01/2024 Chelsea’s Live – Baton, Rouge, LA 4/02/2024 Growlers – Memphis, TN 4/03/2024 Granada Theater – Dallas, TX 4/04/2024 RecordBar – Kansas City, MO 4/05/2024 X-Ray Arcade – Milwaukee, WI 4/06/2024 Stan’s Room at Piere’s – Fort Wayne, IN 4/07/2024 Blind Pig – Ann Arbor, MI 4/08/2024 The Forge – Joliet, IL 4/09/2024 Black Circle Brewing – Indianapolis, IN 4/10/2024 Skully’s – Columbus, OH 4/11/2024 The Loud – Huntington, WV 4/12/2024 Decibel Metal And Beer Fest – Philadelphia, PA [tickets] * 4/13/2024 Rocks Off Concert Cruise @ Skyport Marina – New York, NY [tickets] * 4/14/2024 Elevation 27 – Virginia Beach, VA
CROWBAR only
CROWBAR released their most recent studio offering, the critically lauded Zero And Below, on MNRK Heavy in April 2022. Produced, mixed, and mastered by Duane Simoneaux at OCD Recording And Production in Metairie, Louisiana, Zero And Below is the band’s most unforgivably doom-driven record since their 1998 landmark effort, Odd Fellows Rest. Led by riff lord and vocalist Kirk Windstein, with guitarist Matt Brunson, bassist Shane Wesley, and drummer Tommy Buckley, songs like “Chemical Godz,” “It’s Always Worth The Gain,” and “Bleeding From Every Hole” are unapologetic emotional outpourings, with a bare-knuckle resolve alongside its soul-searching vulnerability, reliably delivered with crushing heaviness.
Zero And Below is available on CD, LP, cassette, and digitally. Preview and purchase the record at THIS LOCATION.
Watch the videos for “Chemical Godz” HERE and “Bleeding From Every Hole” HERE.
Overlooking the ancient lands of sensational heavy metal, Norway’s Coffin Storm is the new band consisting of a trio of Kolbotn veterans, with the line-up of Apollyon (Aura Noir/Lamented Souls) and Bestial Tormentor (Infernö/Lamented Souls) completed by Darkthrone’s Fenriz on vocal duties.
Fenriz explains the origins of the band: “Kolbotn is a hilly forest-y place directly south of Oslo, Norway. When Ole Jørgen and Olav and me grew up there in the 80s we had easy access to all the metal in the massive amounts of record stores in Oslo. Olav and Ole Jørgen started playing doom metal together in the 90s (Lamented Souls) but in 2020 they teamed up again and making riffs in the slow thrash/doom/classic heavy metal style. When the songs started to take form, Ole Jørgen took his place on the drum throne and soon started to record them. Wanting it to be a 100% Kolbotn project, they asked if I wanted to lay down vocals for it and after a couple of sessions in 2021 and 2022 COFFIN STORM was born.”
Apollyon adds “Me and Bestial Tormentor have been playing together since we met in college in 1990 and formed the doom metal act Lamented Souls. However with most members being busy with other bands LS kind of faded away. Our last rehearsal was around 2007.
After I had stopped playing live with Aura Noir we decided to meet up weekly and play guitar together. It was not going to be Lamented Souls and we had no serious plans of any kind. – but as songs were starting to emerge I switched to drums and we made recordings that Bestial Tormentor played to Fenriz, who apparently approved! I would never have dared to ask him to do the vocals! I was considering doing them myself but he was secretly our first choice. Fortunately Bestial Tormentor popped the question and he said yes, so we recorded 3 songs with an extra pair of drum mics(4 in total )in the rehearsal place. Added bass and guitar in my house and went to Fenriz’ to record the vocals. Then we had two more sessions before the album was finished.
Initially I was assuming the music would be doom metal. I think all of us had “Epicus Doomicus Metallicus” in mind but even if our songs are slow/mid tempo, the riffs ended up being more thrashy than I had expected. Only the title track is pure doom simply because it’s a song me and Bestial Tormentor made some 20 years ago that we were über eager to hear Fenriz’ ravishing vocal lines on.”
And so the first fruits of their toil manifest in the form of debut album, ‘Arcana Rising’, with a sterling concoction of classic heavy metal, slow thrash and doom. The result is a torrent of rousing, accomplished titanic riffing from both Apollyon & Bestial Tormentor, commandeered by Fenriz’s unmistakable vocal prowess as witnessed with his own Isengard project as well as multiple Darkthrone releases, with vocal inspiration summoned from bands such as Agent Steel.
Having exclusively premiered the first track “Over Frozen Moors” on the Fenriz Metal Pact Podcast he comments on the single “Right off the bat it’s a chunky 1984 style Exodus verse riff followed by a myriad of melodics in a levitating refrain. The middle of the song just proceeds with an even more killer slow-thrash riff and a surprising vocal part baked into it which gives the song an added epic layer. For the heaviness of the rhythm shift in the closing part I just have one thing to say: Wait for it!..”
‘Arcana Rising’ contains six sprawling metallic epics covering the 45 minute running time, and was recorded at a variety of studios in the band’s native Norway, with work originally commencing back to 2021. With production overseen by Apollyon himself, ‘Arcana Rising’ truly channels & encapsulates the spirit of the 80s, with inspiration from such masters of metal as Candlemass, Pentagram, Metallica & early Kreator, with musical nods to early Paradise Lost & Cathedral from the more extreme side of the doom spectrum, as well as including traces of the DNA from Apollyon & Bestial Tormentor’s own prior work together with their cult doom act Lamented Souls, to create a sensational and majestic opus.
Mastering work was completed by Jack Control at Enormous Door (Darkthrone), and cover art appears courtesy of Polish artist Maciej Kamuda.
Here are some of my Metal thoughts for Monday, February 12th, 2024. Enjoy:
Fuck the Grammy Awards.
Fuck off Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Seriously.
Without bassist Bob Daisley, Ozzy Osbourne wouldn’t have his first 2 solo albums written.
Kudos to the great Kerry King for staying true to his brand of Metal with his forthcoming studio album ‘From Hell I Rise’. The naysayers can go listen to their ABBA 8-tracks.
I’m as excited for the next Mötley Crüe studio album as I am to watch my dog take a shit.
The KISS Avatars interest me as much as watching a slug eating a tomato plant.
Stay true to Metal. Thank you for reading my Metal thoughts for today. – Stone
Following previously-released, new tracks “Root Of All Evil” and “Boogeyman Boogie”, today, Sweden’s MISTER MISERY are presenting their latest single “Hand Of Death”!
“Hand Of Death talks about how hard it can be to just get through the day sometimes.” The band comments. “It’s a reflection of what many of us feel quite often in life and how bad your thoughts can get when you suffer inside without talking about it to anyone.”
MISTER MISERY is an innovative, modern and ground-breaking metal band from Sweden. Blending clean and gritty vocals along with high-voltage riffs and anthemic choruses, they have developed a unique sound and style, and one that captures the essence of all the sub-genres in modern heavy music.
Since forming back in 2018, MISTER MISERY have released two critically acclaimed studio albums (Unalive and A Brighter Side Of Death) and several highly praised and top-playlisted singles to date. Paired with an obscene and theatrical appearance, they create an experience that speaks to all senses.
MISTER MISERY has become a force that crushes stages on the biggest festival the scene has to offer, such as Wacken Open Air, Master of Rock, Full Metal Cruise, Hills Of Rock to name just a few. MISTER MISERY has played as support of some of the most prestigious bands in metal, such as Nightwish and Dream Theater in front of over 15.000 people. One thing is for certain: They will leave NO survivors!
The band is currently gearing up for an exciting, new chapter of their career, and has just recently joined forces with AFM Records, who will proudly release their forthcoming album in 2024!
MISTER MISERY: Harley Vendetta – Vocals/Guitar Alex Nine – Lead Guitar/Backup Vocals Rizzy – Drums/Backup Vocals Alex Alister – Bass/Backup Vocals
“Free Spirit Soar” Tracklist: 01 Behold A Pale Horse 02 The Rider 03 Conquerors 04 Worms Of The Earth 05 The Watchman (CD-exclusive track) 06 Free Spirit Soar 07 The Bell Tolls 08 Alarm 09 Twin (CD-exclusive track) 10 Revelation XIX
Line Up: Mark Zonder – Drums Philip Bynoe – Bass Eric Juris – Guitars Jimmy Waldo – Keyboards Giles Lavery – Vocals
Last year, our debut in America and Canada left us spellbound, facing sold-out venues and an incredible crowd. The energy was unreal, and we didn’t want to miss it again. So, we’re back for the North American Tour 2024 to celebrate the holy heavy metal mass with even more of you! It’s going to be sheer madness! From the kickoff in Los Angeles at The Hollywood Palladium on August 29 to the grand finale in Laval, QC, at Place Bell on September 15, let’s make history together! This tour marks the official live debut of songs from our upcoming album – don’t miss the excitement! Support on this tour will be Unleash The Archers!
GENERAL ON SALE: Friday February 9th @ 10:00 AM LOCAL
8/29 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Hollywood Palladium 8/31 – Denver, CO @ The Ogden Theatre 9/03 – Chicago, IL @ The Riviera Theatre 9/04 – Cleveland, OH @ The Agora Theatre 9/05 – Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore 9/07 – Tampa, FL @ Jannus Landing 9/08 – Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade 9/09 – Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore 9/12 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore 9/13 – Worcester, MA @ The Palladium 9/14 – New York City, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount 9/15 – Laval, QC @ Place Bell
34 years since their latest album “Violent By Nature”, released in 1990, Tucson, Arizona-based thrash metal titans ATROPHY return with a brand new album! “Asylum” will be unleashed on March 15, 2024 via Massacre Records, the pre-sale is now available at https://lnk.to/atrophyasylum
“Asylum” marks the next evolutionary step for ATROPHY. Keeping the speed of “Socialized Hate” and the grooves of “Violent By Nature”, this album adds a big dose of heaviness to the mix resulting in a satisfying aural kick in your face! Today, the iconic band has premiered a lyric video for their first single, the album opening track “Punishment For All”, watch the clip now streaming HERE.
““Punishment For All” was inspired by the attempted insurrection on January 6 (2021) with Covid-19 restrictions still in play. To sit in my living room and watch this unfold was almost too much to bear. Americans were at each other‘s throats, calling people traitors, or trying to undermine democracy and not believing in the results of the election, following the myriad conspiracy theories that were swirling around at the time.” Frontman Brian Zimmerman comments.
“I thought to myself what if they were successful? What are we, as a country divided, going to do then? Take down everything we have built together as a country? What are we putting in place? Are we just going to do whatever the loudest people tell us to do? The whole thing was just absolutely crazy.”
“Asylum” was produced, mixed and mastered by Alex Parra at Second Sight Studio. The album tracklist will read as follows:
Punishment For All
High Anxiety
Seeds Of Sorrow
Distortion
Bleeding Out
American Dream
Close My Eyes
The Apostle
Five Minutes ‘Til Suicide
Album Lineup: Brian Zimmerman – Vocals Nathan Montalvo – Lead Guitar Mark Coglan – Rhythm Guitar Josh Gibbs – Bass Guitar Jonas Shütz – Drums
GUEST MUSICIANS: Kragen Lum – Lead Guitar on “American Dream” Justin Stear – Bass Guitar on “American Dream”, “Close My Eyes”, “Distortion”
MINISTRY’S ROY MAYORGA AND WE ARE THE ASTEROID’S GARY CHESTER CONTRIBUTE TO THE RECORD
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An album so magical, I helped create it without knowing it was happening. It’s definitely the weirdest album I’ve ever been a part of.” – Steven McDonald
Feb. 6, 2024, LOS ANGELES – The Melvins latest opus, Tarantula Heart (April 19, Ipecac Recordings), is quite possibly the band’s most unconventional, catchiest and imaginative work yet, continuing a legacy celebrated for its eccentric and extraordinary output.
A preview of the five-song, 39-minute collection arrives with the release of “Working The Ditch” (https://themelvins.lnk.to/wtd), and the accompanying Jesse Nieminen-created video. Nieminen previously directed the band’s short film, “A Walk With Love and Death.”
“The way we approached Tarantula Heart was different than any other Melvins’ album,” explains Buzz Osborne. “I had Dale and Roy Mayorga come in and play along with Steven and I to some riffs, then I took those sessions and figured out what parts would work and wrote new music to fit. This isn’t a studio approach we’ve ever taken. Usually we have the songs written BEFORE we start recording!”
“The majority of Tarantula Heart has dual drum parts,” adds long-time Melvins drummer Dale Crover. “Roy is an amazing drummer. We would discuss what we would do pattern wise, then we’d just go for it. Improvising riffs and trading off on drum fills.”
Tarantula Heart cover, artwork by Mackie Osborne
Tarantula Heart track list:
Pain Equals Funny
Working the Ditch
She’s Got Weird Arms
Allergic to Food
Smiler
In actuality nothing appeared out of thin air. Buzz spent hours and hours with the drum tracks by himself writing songs to what he was hearing drum wise. “When the rest of the band heard these songs I’d created from the sessions, they were blown away,” Buzz shares. “These were fully developed new songs that they’d never heard before that had seemingly appeared out of thin air. Presto!”
Recorded, mixed and co-produced by longtime Melvins’ collaborator Toshi Kasai, the album also features We Are The Asteroid guitar player Gary Chester. Gary and the Melvins’ history goes back to their days on Boner Records, with the guitar player formerly having been a part of the legendary band, Ed Hall.
Tarantula Heart pre-orders (https://themelvins.lnk.to/tarantula) are available now, with the album available on a trio of vinyl variants (black, indie exclusive Silver Streak and Ipecac Recordings’ 25th Anniversary Puke Green), featuring a 12-page booklet, as well as on CD and digitally.
Next month sees the Melvins head overseas, playing in Japan for the first time since 2019 following a stint where they join current labelmates, Mr. Bungle, for a trek across Australia and New Zealand. Buzz and Bungle bass player Trevor Dunn team up later this year for the “King Dunn Tour,” a 45-date excursion that sees the pair play songs from the King Buzzo releases: This Machine Kills Artists and Gift of Sacrifice. The full list of dates can be found via Ipecac.com/tours.
Melvins tour dates:
March 3 Auckland, NZ Auckland Town Hall March 6 Melbourne, AUS Festival Hall March 7 Adelaide, AUS Hindley Street Music Hall March 9 Sydney, AUS Hordern Pavilion March 10 Brisbane, AUS Fortitude Music Hall March 12 Perth, AUS Metro City March 17 Osaka, JP Music Club Janus March 19 Tokyo, JP Shibuya WWW X March 20 Tokyo, JP Shibuya WWW X
Danish thrash metal icons ARTILLERY are pleased to announce a North American headlining tour celebrating their 40th anniversary! The journey, initially scheduled to take place last Fall but postponed due to visa issues, begins March 27th in Austin, Texas, closes April 20th in Toronto, Ontario, and includes a performance at 2 Minutes To Tulsa Festival in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Support will be provided by Vapor and Potential Threat.
ARTILLERY guitarist Michael Stutzer comments, “We are really excited to get back to North America to celebrate 40 years of ARTILLERY‘s thrash metal. We had an amazing time on our last tour and can’t wait to meet our diehard fans again.”
Tickets are on sale now. See all confirmed dates below.
ARTILLERY w/ Vapor, Potential Threat: 3/27/2024 Come And Take It Live – Austin, TX 3/28/2024 The Compound – Houston, TX 3/29/2024 2 Minutes To Tulsa Festival @ Vanguard – Tulsa, OK 3/30/2024 Feed N Seed – Lafayette, LA 3/31/2024 Midcity Ballroom – Baton Rouge, LA 4/01/2024 Siberia – New Orleans, LA 4/02/2023 Conduit – Winter Park, FL 4/03/2024 Brass Mug – Tampa, FL 4/04/2024 Boggs Social – Atlanta, GA 4/05/2024 Ridgeville Roadhouse – Ridgeville, SC 4/06/2024 Ground Zero – Spartanburg, SC 4/07/2024 Another Round – Richmond, VA 4/08/2024 Preserving Underground – New Kensington, PA 4/09/2024 Cactus Club – Milwaukee, WI 4/10/2024 Sanctuary – Detroit, MI 4/11/2024 Sherman Showcase – Stroudsburg, PA 4/12/2024 Sammy’s Patio – Boston, MA 4/13/2024 Meadows – Brooklyn, NY 4/14/2024 Alchemy – Providence, RI 4/15/2024 Timeless Babez (The Pit) – Buffalo, NY 4/16/2024 L’Anti Bar And Spectacles – Quebec City, QC 4/18/2024 Piranha Bar – Montreal, QC 4/19/2024 Dominion Tavern – Ottawa, ON 4/20/2024 Hard Luck – Toronto, ON
In the mid-1980s, Denmark’s ARTILLERY established themselves as being at the cutting edge of the thrash movement. Four decades later, they continue to destroy. The band’s most recent studio offering – the aptly titled, ‘X’ — was released in 2021 via Metal Blade Records. ‘X’ was tracked in Medley Studio in Copenhagen, Denmark with producer Søren Andersen, who the band have worked with on every record since 2009’s ‘When Death Comes’.
Indomitable Australian rockers The Neptune Power Federation have released the official video for “Lock & Key,” the second single from their forthcoming sixth album, Goodnight My Children.
This new album is a collection of feverish nighttime stories set to uproarious pure rock with a pop twist! Cruz Del Sur Music will release the album in the United States and Canada on April 5 (European release date is March 8).
Pure Australian rock glory meets the Sunset Strip on Goodnight My Children!
Love songs were on the mind of Australian psychedelic rock and roll brigade The Neptune Power Federation for their 2021 full-length, Le Demon De L’Amour. The album was the raucous re-imagination of a bygone era filtered through the lens of a band unafraid to blur genres. Fast-forward three years and children’s stories are on the brain for The Neptune Power Federation; with a decidedly early 1980s American sound on Goodnight My Children.
This new album finds The Neptune Power Federation leaning into the poppier side of their sound (think the Sunset Strip merging with late 1970s radio rock). The album’s eight cuts bang and mash with pure rock fervor, complete with roaring guitar solos and the always-memorable, convincing, enticing and mesmerizing “The Imperial Priestess,” otherwise known as Screamin’ Loz Sutch, on lead vocals.
Indeed, Goodnight My Children may be Sutch’s finest vocal performance to date. The recording process (which took place at bass player JayTanic Ritual’s The Pet Food Factory in Marrickville, Sydney, with mixing duties handled by Mo Mayhem), involved Sutch doing huge banks of layered backing vocals that followed her peculiar and idiosyncratic sensibilities. The sessions were organic and intuitive, allowing Sutch to expand upon the classic pop structures of the eight songs.
Sutch’s spellbinding vocal performance lent perfectly to the theme of Goodnight My Children, which symbolizes a collection of nighttime stories that, no matter how horrifying, leave the listener in the caring embrace of Sutch, the Imperial Priestess. And, as an added bonus, fans will be treated to an illustrated book of fairy tales that will accompany the release.
2024 will find The Neptune Power Federation making its long-awaited return to European shores for a round of tour dates. With the band approaching 15 years as a unit, milestones like a sixth studio album and international acclaim are not taken lightly by the band. While its origins as a casual studio project were simple, the emergence of Sutch and the notoriety for their sweaty, bombastic live shows has turned The Neptune Power Federation into a rock and roll cult that is impossible to ignore.
Today, Creepsylvania’s beloved masked mutants, GHOUL, unleash their Noxious Concoctions upon planet earth. Boasting five delightful hymns, the EP serves as the first new studio output from the splatterthrashers since 2016’s critically hailed Dungeon Bastards full-length.
All tracks on Noxious Concoctions were digested, dissected, fermented, and cremated by the members of GHOUL, except “1-900-DTH-LINE,” originally composed by Funerot. The EP was recorded by Scott Evans at Antisleep Audio and Sharkbite Studios, mastered by Dan Randall at Mammoth Sound Mastering, and includes gang vocals by The Moron Cavern-Shackled Choir and “swamp hag” vocals by Laurie Sue Shanaman.
Noxious Concoctions is available on CD and digital formats as well as limited 12” vinyl in the following three color variants:
Die Hard – Swamp Green concoction vinyl includes Noxious Concoctions cocktail book and GHOULunatics swizzle stick.
Wacky Splatter – A Tankcrimes mailorder exclusive; Black And Bone mix w/ Swamp Green Splatter
Orange Crush – Retail edition
Find vinyl orders HERE, CD orders HERE, and digital orders HERE where the record can be streamed.
GHOUL’s Noxious Concoctions comes just two weeks before they kick off the inaugural Brainsqueeze Tour! The North American live assault will find GHOUL sacking stages as direct support to MunicipalWaste. Additional support will be provided by labelmates Necrot and Dead Heat. The tour runs from February 15th in Washington, DC through March 16th in Richmond, Virginia. Tickets are on sale now at THIS LOCATION.
GHOUL w/ Municipal Waste, Necrot, Dead Heat: 2/15/2024 Black Cat – Washington, DC 2/16/2024 Union Transfer – Philadelphia, PA 2/17/2024 Brooklyn Monarch – Brooklyn, NY 2/18/2024 The Paradise – Boston, MA 2/19/2024 House Of Music – Portland, ME * GHOUL + Necrot only 2/20/2024 Foufounes Electriques – Montreal, QC 2/21/2024 London Music Hall – London, ON 2/22/2024 Rec Room – Buffalo, NY 2/23/2024 Magic Stick – Detroit, MI 2/24/2024 Turner Hall – Milwaukee, WI 2/26/2024 Fine Line – Minneapolis, MN 2/27/2024 Waiting Room – Omaha, NE 3/01/2024 Summit Music Hall – Denver, CO 3/02/2024 Mesa Theatre – Grand Junction, CO 3/03/2024 Aces High Saloon – Salt Lake City, UT * GHOUL + Necrot only 3/04/2024 UC Theatre – Berkeley, CA 3/05/2024 The Bellwether – Los Angeles, CA 3/06/2024 Encore – Tucson, AZ 3/08/2024 Paper Tiger – San Antonio, TX 3/09/2024 Trees – Dallas, TX 3/10/2024 House Of Blues – New Orleans, LA 3/12/2024 Culture Room – Ft. Lauderdale, F 3/13/2024 The Abbey – Orlando, FL 3/14/2024 40 Watt – Athens, GA 3/15/2024 The Senate Theatre – Columbia, SC 3/16/2024 The National – Richmond, VA
Metalcore titans UNEARTH proudly present their latest video for “Eradicator,” a standout track from their formidable album, The Wretched; The Ruinous. The video, showcasing the band’s relentless energy and unique artistry, is now available for viewing HERE.
Following the success of The Wretched; The Ruinous, UNEARTH continues to push boundaries, both musically and thematically. The album, lauded for its incisive commentary on global issues, stands as a testament to the band’s ability to blend aggressive sounds with thought-provoking lyrics.
Reflecting on the new video, vocalist Trevor Phipps says, “Since our new album The Wretched; The Ruinous was released ‘Eradicator’ has been posted and reposted more than any other track on the record by you all. Because of this we hit up our good friend Daniel Vandal from Kreact to shoot another live themed video (Incinerate) for us across the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Ontario. The footage captures the high energy, and mayhem (Barrie), our Canadian friends always bring to our shows north of the border. Check out ‘Eradicator’ now and see you on the road.”
The album The Wretched; The Ruinous delves into pressing global concerns, as Phipps explains: “The Wretched; The Ruinous is about the eight billion people on this planet. We’ve created a man-made mass extinction event and have been too slow to correct our faults. Extreme weather, drought, famine, disease, erosion of land, culture wars, civil wars, wars for natural resources, and the displacement of billions of people, is all a current reality. This isn’t a future problem; it is a now problem and I take this record to talk about it.”
UNEARTH‘s new video for “Eradicator” is more than just a musical statement; it’s a visual journey into the heart of what makes them one of metal’s most enduring and relevant acts.
The Wretched, The Ruinous – Track List:
The Wretched; The Ruinous Cremation of the Living Eradicator Mother Betrayal Invictus Call of Existence Dawn of the Militant Aniara Into the Abyss Broken Arrow Theaters of War
You can catch UNEARTH live at these festivals:
July 5 – RockHarz – Ballenstedt, Germany August 16 – Summer Breeze Open Air – Dinkelsbühl, Germany August 23 – NOAF (Neuborn Open Air Festival) – Wörrstadt, Germany October 4 – Furnace Fest – Birmingham, Alabama
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"
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