It is with heavy hearts that KIX have announced their retirement from performing live. Lead singer, Steve Whiteman made the announcement from the stage at M3 Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion on May 7. Watch Steve’s announcement here.
KIX’s final performance ever is set for September 17 at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD. “KIX…Walkin’ Away, The Final Show” will see the original band members Steve Whiteman, Brian Forsythe, Ronnie Younkins, Jimmy Chalfant, and longtime bassist Mark Schenker take the stage for the very last time. The night will also include some very special guests. Tickets for the show are on sale now HERE.
“We wanted to do this show for our fans,” says Steve. “We owe a lot to them for their never-ending support over our long 45-year career. It was tempting to just fade away and stop booking gigs and ride off into the sunset, but we wanted our fans to be part of a local farewell show and give them a chance to see the band one last time.”
Read more in Steve’s interview with Metal Edge Magazine, who broke the news wide to the rock ‘n’ community on Monday May 8th.
KIX formed in Hagerstown, Maryland in 1978 and have enjoyed a lasting 45-year career as one of hard rock’s most notable groups. The band’s retirement signifies the end of an era as KIX was one of the last touring bands from the 80’s rock scene who were still at the top of their game. Highly respected by fans, peers, and critics, KIX is deservingly very proud of their long legacy.
In typical Steve style, he concludes, “I just want everyone to end up on their feet and celebrate all the good times we’ve had over the years. It’s a party and you are all invited!”
International heavy metal act BAD AS have signed the worldwide deal with Wormholedeath Records/Warner for the release of their upcoming album “Fight The Demons”.
The band members are thrilled about the collaboration and have expressed their excitement about the new album, which promises to be an outstanding work of art. “Fight The Demons” contains 11 catchy rock/metal songs that will leave fans wanting more.
BAD AS is known for their ability to cross over different genres, combining hard rock, metal, and prog to create a unique sound that sets them apart from other bands. The collaboration of the singer John Jeff Touch with Alberto Rigoni and the rest of the band has given a new vibe and modern sensation to the band while maintaining the power and aggressiveness of their previous albums.
“We are excited to be signing with Wormholedeath Records/Warner for the release of our upcoming album ‘Fight The Demons’,” said the band in a statement. “We are proud of the new direction we’ve taken with this album and can’t wait to share it with our fans.”
“Fight The Demons” tracklist:
1. Fear 2. You Better Run 3. The War is On 4. Fight The Demons 5. Nemesis 6. Where Did The Love Go 7. Inside A Dream 8. Awake 9. As I Walk Away 10. The Answer 11. Free
BAD AS was formed in 2016 by world-renowned musicians, including rock vocalist Titta Tani, metal bassist Alberto Rigoni, guitarist Alessio “Lex” Tricarico, and drummer Denis “Denzy” Novello. Since then, they have released three albums and have caught the attention of journalists and promoters alike.
A special mention goes to the musical career of bassist Alberto Rigoni, who is also a composer and producer, worldwide known for his work as a solo artist and as a member of various metal bands such as Natural Born Machine, TwinSpirits, and Vivaldi Metal Project. He has released 12 solo albums spanning from progressive rock to fusion, featuring collaborations with notable musicians such as Jeff Scott Soto, Jordan Rudess, Marco Minnemann, etc. In addition, he has played live with various artists and recorded for international artists.
With the addition of new members, John Jeff Touch (winner of various European Artists Awards and collaborations with bands such as Deep Purple, VISION, S.I.N., COSMICRAY, Sanny X, etc) as new vocalist, and Marco Andreetto as the new drummer, BAD AS is ready to take their music to the next level. Their future plans include playing their music live to bigger audiences and festivals after the release of their new album.
“We are looking forward to hitting the road and playing our music for our fans,” said the band. “We hope to see you all out there.”
Line-up: John Jeff Touch – vocals Alberto Rigoni – bass Alessio ‘Lex’ Tricarico – guitar Marco Andreetto – drums
Earlier Releases: Crucified Society – Album, Released: March 17 2020 via SlipTrick Records, Mixed and Mastered by: Michele Guaitioli Midnight Curse – Album, Released: November 30th 2019 via RockShot Record, Mixed and Mastered by: Alberto Rigoni More Pain, More Gain – Album, Released: April 15th 2016 via Lion Music, Mixed and Mastered by: Federico Solazzo
Australian hard rockers BIG RED FIRE TRUCK have released their new single “Love Bite“. The song is from their upcoming EP Trouble InParadisewhich is out on August 4th, 2023.
The band comments: ” ‘Love Bite’ is a personal reflection of my experiences in the music industry and its comparison to the highs and lows of a place like Vegas. It’s easy to get caught up in the glittering facade of success and become fixated on the idea of making it big. I read an article recently that helped me come to realise that the industry is in fact a lot like a casino – a few win big, a few even win small and those that don’t are kicked to the curb and left to fend for themselves. This song is a reminder to myself and others to enjoy the journey, no matter what the outcome may be.”
About BIG RED FIRE TRUCK: BIG RED FIRE TRUCK began in 2016 as a project by Digby to write some fun heavy metal and hard rock songs and fulfil his need to hear new music in the style of his beloved bands. Taking inspiration from the likes of VAN HALEN, RECKLESS LOVE, THE DARKNESS, AEROSMITH, SUM 41, and CRAZY LIXX, the quartet pay homage to previous generations of hard rock while delivering their own distinctive character.
BIG RED FIRE TRUCK Are: Digby (Guitar and Lead Vocals) Ben Frank (Guitar) Pete Grant (Drums and Vocals) Nick Frazier (Bass)
While Swedish modern melodic metal outfit, dEMOTIONAL, is currently gearing up to reissue their latest, much acclaimed masterpiece album Scandinavian Aftermath, due out on May 26, 2023 via AFM Records. Today, the band has shared a brand new lyric video for the song “Boiling Point”: HERE
With four albums under their belt and following their recent, worldwide signing with AFM Records, the Hamburg-based powerhouse label is proud to present the band’s self-released 2021-offering, Scandinavian Aftermath, to a global audience. With over 15 million streams on Spotify alone and a constant listener base of 100k, various live shows, tours and radio airplays, dEMOTIONAL have aready proved to be one of the most exciting, up-and-coming bands of their genre and now they are ready more than ever to conquer the world!
The quintet from Gothenburg, that already became an anchor in the Swedish metal scene, has caused a stir with the release of their much-acclaimed debut album, STATE: IN DENIAL, in 2013. And they have not been slowing down since. Their second album TARASSIS got them a spot as main support on DEAD BY APRIL’s European tour and also their own headline shows around the world.
Scandinavian Aftermath will be reissued as a Deluxe Edition on May 26, 2023, visit the AFM Records shop at THIS LOCATION!
Scandinavian Aftermath – track listing:
Scandinavian Aftermath
Bärsärk
My Own Enemy
My Heart (Feat. Matt Guillory & Jenny Fagerstrand)
S.O.A.K
Cornered
All That I Knew
Young Wolves
Boiling Point
Typhoon
Northern Star
Fear Of Success
Don’t Wake Me Up
Close Yet Far
Lost in This City
Everbound
SINGLES/ VIDEOS: dEMOTIONAL – Boiling Point (2023) watch HERE dEMOTIONAL – Lost In This City watch HERE dEMOTIONAL – Bärsärk watch HERE dEMOTIONAL – Scandinavian Aftermath watch HERE
Canadian psychedelic heavy rock trio TUMBLE, will be celebrating the release of their debut EPLady Cadaver on Sunday May 14th at Handlebar Toronto, ON, Canada. Bringing groovy riffs, high-energy rhythms and drum solos, TUMBLE‘s new offering delivers a vintage rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
“Thrilled to unleash these two heavy hitters into the wild for all you hard rock lovers. I hope you play these songs LOUD, and enjoy listening to them as much as we enjoyed recording them. We’ve only just begun… turn on, tune in, and TUMBLE.” – (Liam Deak, Guitarist/Vocalist)
“Lady Cadaver’”, explain TUMBLE, “is about the big bad trip… sometimes surreal but not always imaginary, while ‘The Plague’ is a psychedelic heavy rock instrumental for your hip shakin’, head banging pleasure.”
The opener is a catchy track with wide spread appeal, combining rhythmic instrumentation with guitar licks and giving their percussionist the spotlight. An immersive experience is found in the instrumental track “The Plague”. Leaning into the heavier side of the band’s sound, this song dives into the otherworldly with alluring guitar leads and eerie sounds before building into a high-speed multi-textural frenzy.
Track Listing:
Lady Cadaver
The Plague
About TUMBLE: TUMBLE is a power trio inspired by the heavy bands of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Their retro hard rock/psychedelic sound is influenced by bands such as BUDGIE, BLUE CHEER, CACTUS, MC5, PENTAGRAM and THE GROUNDHOGS. TUMBLE formed in Toronto, ON, in early 2022. They started out cutting their teeth in the city’s open mic circuit, and quickly began gathering the attention of the local music scene. By the end of 2022, TUMBLE was opening for bands such as CROWN LANDS, ECSTATIC VISION, and WITCHROT.
In January 2023, they caught the attention of legendary Canadian-rock musician/producer, Ian Blurton who agreed to spend a day recording with the band in his studio, ProGold. He managed to capture the band’s live energy, raw power, and ferocious attack in the studio, which resulted in Tumble’s debut EP Lady Cadaver, set to be self-released on May 5th, 2023.
Credits: Produced by Ian Blurton and TUMBLE. Recorded/Mixed by Ian Blurton at ProGold. Mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege. Artwork by Leesa Westwood.
Here are three examples of an album cover showing a woman’s face behind a see-through cloth. I’m certain there’s more out there. I believe this idea of an album cover needs to retire. For good. Please. Stop.
The Rolling Stones – Goats Head Soup (1973)
I’ll give The Rolling Stones a pass due to my thinking this was the first time this idea was used for an album cover. I could be wrong. Besides, it’s The Rolling Stones.
Scorpions – Rock Believer (2022)
C’mon Scorpions. This album cover of RockBeliever is so bad it’s the reason why I didn’t buy the physical CD. I didn’t want to see it laying around my other CDs that have quality album art. Besides, I listen to Rock Believer on Spotify.
Halestorm – Back From The Dead (2022)
I’ll bet that Halestorm and Scorpions never expected to have nearly the same album cover released in the SAME YEAR!! Some people might say that’s glass covering over the face of Lzzy Hale. Is it Lzzy Hale though? Hard to tell maybe, with the violent screaming face. Anyways, I believe this is cloth covering her face. I always felt the Halestorm debut album cover art from 2009 was bizarre and cringey; yet this album cover takes the prize for unoriginal disaster.
Thank you for reading my semi-useless rant. Please feel free to comment! Metal Be Thy Name. – Stone
OF THE SUN showcases a different side to their heavy sound with the new single “Lost Tongue“. Landing on May 5th, the second offering from the upcoming EP Pattern Rebirth, delivers soaring vocal harmonies, intricate melodies and progressive arrangements.
The band comments:
“Inspired by feelings of neglect and abandonment of the self, ‘Lost Tongue’ is a departure from the typically aggressive OF THE SUN songwriting style. It’s a solemn tune, billowing with the dark harmonic vocal character akin to an ALICE IN CHAINS song, while attacking tooth and nail the frustration that lies at the heart of a toxic relationship. The start of it illustrates the epiphany, finding myself years deep in something that required the absence of my true persona. From there, ‘Lost Tongue’ navigates through the course of this circumstance, as well as through the confusion, anxiety, anger, and disbelief found in this condition, ultimately resolving to uproot everything.”
About OF THE SUN: Beginning in Myrtle Beach, SC, before moving to Austin, TX, and landing in southern Germany, the metal outfit, OF THE SUN, has traveled a long, winding path, and continues to build on its approach to song writing through structural variation and stylistic revisions. Influenced by bands like BTBAM, OPETH, SOUNDGARDEN, and MR BUNGLE, OF THE SUN draws from a diverse vocabulary of musical language and boils it down into the particular visions of chief creator, Patrick Duvall. Recruiting from overseas, drummers Bryce Butler (SHADOW OF INTENT, THE FACELESS, CONTRARIAN) and Rom Gov (SEEK IRONY, TIBETAN SKY RITUAL), along with bassist Jacob Umansky (INTERVALS, THE FACELESS, PAINTED IN EXILE) have joined ranks for Pattern Rebirth.
Forty-five years young, British hard rock royalty GIRLSCHOOL comes out swinging with their fourteenth studio album, WTFortyfive?, a deliciously dirty declaration that age is a number that shows how much real raw attitude you have when it really counts. WTFortyfive? is set for release on July 28th via Silver Lining Music.
Lead single “Are You Ready?” sets the pace; a racy, raunchy, fun-saturated shapeshifter co-written with Alcatrazz’s Joe Stump that shows GIRLSCHOOL’s leathers may still carry the well-baked battle scars of decades past, but their songs and attitude are as fresh, fun, heavy, and catchy as ever before.
As a nod to their fellow partners in crime, GIRLSCHOOL today reveals the animated video for “Are You Ready?,” the video sequel to Alcatrazz’s “Don’t Get Mad… Get Even” (feat. GIRLSCHOOL)” taken from the upcoming Alcatrazz album Take No Prisoners (set for release May 19thvia Silver Lining Music). Both videos were created by Natalia Jonderko Śmiechowicz.
Comments the band, “The first new GIRLSCHOOL music in nearly a decade! Powerful, heavy and with a great groove, this is the first single from our WTFortyfive? album! We think you’ll like it… Are you ready? We are!”
Watch GIRLSCHOOL’s video for “Are You Ready?” (feat. Joe Stump)” HERE.
Watch Alcatrazz’s video for “Don’t Get Mad… Get Even (feat. Girlschool)” HERE.
With WTFortyfive?, Kim McAuliffe (guitar/vocals), Denise Dufort (drums), Jackie Chambers (guitar/backing vocals), and Tracey Lamb (bass) leave the grit under their finger nails and the muck on their crusty leather boots as they riff and stomp their way through twelve statements of intent showing major attitude, some great melodies, and a consistent crunch to every guitar.
There’s the addictive mototörcharged scuzz of “It Is What It Is,” the Wandsworth via Sunset Strip sway of “Bump In The Night,” the youthful, punky romp of “Up To No Good,” and the smart, sassy, rock ‘n’ roll hooks of “Believing In You,” with McAuliffe’s vocals sounding as sharp and raucous as ever. And if that isn’t enough, their raunch roars and rolls alongside Biff Byford (Saxon), Phil Campbell (Motörhead), and Duff McKagan (Guns N’ Roses) on a cracking cover of “Born To Raise Hell!” So throw away your inhibitions and join these spectacularly wild women on the most glorious of rock ‘n’ roll rides. Lemmy knew, so should YOU!
WTFortyfive? will be released on 12” vinyl, digipak-CD, digital download and streaming and special D2C bundles. Preorder yours today at THIS LOCATION.
Additionally, head over to girlschool.tmstor.esfor a chance to win a GIRLSCHOOL WTFortyfive? custom made real leather jacket. T&Cs apply.
WTFortyfive? Track Listing:
It Is What It Is
Cold Dark Heart
Bump In The Night
Barmy Army
Invisible Killer
Believing In You
It’s A Mess
Into The Night
Are You Ready? (feat. Joe Stump)
Up To No Good
Party
Born To Raise Hell (feat. Biff Byford, Phil Campbell, Duff McKagan)
We are very excited to announce the Thicker Than Blood US Tour w/ special guest LivingColour. Pre-sale tickets for all dates are now available at https://extreme-band.com/ (Use code SIX) 👊
Come celebrate this album with us. It’s been way too long & we can’t wait to see you.
Los Angeles-born heavy metal icons ALCATRAZZ will release their new studio album, Take NoPrisoners, via Silver Lining Music on May 19th.
ALCATRAZZ is determined to make up for lost time, roaring forwards at warp factor ten to deliver Take No Prisoners, their sixth studio album and the third in three years. Comprised of ten cracking, charismatic tracks, with each containing the unique fusion of classic American rock with the full grain hard-rocking attitude of British heavy metal, Take No Prisonerssees ALCATRAZZ energetically soaring and exploring melodic progression with road-warrior riffs. “Little Viper” rides a scything guitar into a thunderous, Dio-like assault, whilst the band also show their calmer, more expansive side with the epic “Strangers,” but when an album finishes at the burn point of “Bring On The Rawk,” there can be no question that ALCATRAZZ’s collective boot is repeatedly kicking serious ass!
Comprised of Doogie White (vocals), Joe Stump (guitars), Jimmy Waldo (keyboards), Gary Shea (bass), and Larry Paterson (drums), with Giles Lavery and Waldo producing, Take No Prisoners is a loudly, and proudly classic rock album which draws on the ALCATRAZZ traditions of technically excellent screaming guitars, thunderous rhythm, and the sort of vocals and overall aura that evoke prime Dio and Rainbow. And of course, a primed and fully tuned-up ALCATRAZZ, whose career is fast taking on Benjamin Button proportions.
Take No Prisoners will be released on digipak CD, 12” Black vinyl, digital download, streaming and special D2C bundles. Preorders are available at THIS LOCATION.
ALCATRAZZ: Jimmy Waldo – keyboards Gary Shea – bass Doogie White – lead vocals Joe Stump – guitar Larry Paterson – drums
April 11, 2023, Eureka, Calif. – Mr. Bungle, who venture out on their first post-pandemic tour dates this May as part of the Ipecac Recordings’ Geek Show, have added an eastern swing to their slate of 2023 outings, with new performances added for several cities including New York, Boston, and Toronto.
The dates, which mark the band’s first shows on the East Coast (with the exception of New York City) in 23 years, find Mr. Bungle once again featuring their The Raging Wrath of the Easter Bunny Demo line-up (Mike Patton, Trevor Dunn, Trey Spruance, Scott Ian and Dave Lombardo).
Tickets for the newly announced performances are on-sale this Friday at 10 am est. Joining Mr. Bungle for the September outings is Battles, reuniting Patton and Dunn with their Tomahawk bandmate, John Stanier.
Ipecac Geek Show featuring Mr. Bungle, Melvins and Spotlights:
May 10 Pomona, CA Fox Theater May 11 Los Angeles, CA Palladium May 13 Las Vegas, NV Sick New World Festival May 14 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues May 16 Denver, CO Mission Ballroom May 17 Salt Lake City, UT Union Event Center May 19 Seattle, WA Showbox May 20 Seattle, WA Showbox May 21 Portland, OR Crystal Ballroom May 23 Oakland, CA Fox Theater May 24 Oakland, CA Fox Theater
Mr. Bungle with special guests, Battles:
September 5 Baltimore, MD Rams Head Live September 6 Philadelphia, PA The Fillmore September 8 New York, NY Terminal 5 September 11 Boston, MA Roadrunner September 12 Montreal, QC MTelus September 13 Toronto, ON History September 15 Detroit, MI The Fillmore Detroit
Photo credit: Buzz Osborne
Mr. Bungle was formed in an impoverished lumber and fishing town by a trio of curious, volatile teenagers. Trey Spruance, Mike Patton and Trevor Dunn beget the amorphous “band” in 1985 up in Humboldt County, Calif., sifting through a variety of members until 1988 when drummer Danny Heifetz and saxophonist Bär McKinnon joined the group. In 1989, Mr. Bungle signed to Warner Bros. Records. No one really knows how this happened and it remains a complete mystery that even the algorithms of the internet can’t decode. Up until 2000 they released three albums (Mr. Bungle in 1991, Disco Volante in 1995 and California in 1999), toured a good portion of the Western hemisphere and avoided any sort of critical acclaim.
Some argue that the band subsequently broke up but there is also no proof of this. What is true is that they took 20 years off from performing under said moniker while they pursued various other musics that, in contrast, paid the rent. In 2020, a different iteration of Mr. Bungle emerged, pairing the original trio of Dunn, Patton and Spruance with Anthrax’s Scott Ian and former Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo for a proper release of the Eureka-bred band’s unreleased demo, The Raging Wrath of the Easter Bunny.
Over the last several years I have sold many CDs that I no longer listen to and were just taking up space. It’s all about managing the physical space that I have. No regrets and the money I made was useful.
However, once a collector always a collector! Since January of this year, I have steadily purchased new CDs to add to my collection. Here are a handful of the CDs I’ve purchased this far in 2023. Please feel free to comment on mine and your CD buys.
SINISTERAggressive Measures – (1998) – Legendary Death Metal from the NetherlandsJERRY ONLY – ANTI-HERO(2022)SLAYER – LIVE UNDEAD (1984)
I LOVE DEATH METAL!! With that said, SINISTER was a must purchase. I never owned SLAYERLIVE UNDEAD on CD, crazy as that sounds. I did own it on cassette and had it for decades. Anything MISFITS and take my money! The first ever JERRY ONLY solo album really, really ROCKS!! Holy shit, it ROCKS!!
I haven’t kept up with buying all of the Yngwie Malmsteen releases over the decades. There are so many too. So I decided to buy the Yngwie Malmsteen CD box set to re-energize my loyalty to his mind bending guitar virtuosity. Man, back in the 1980’s Yngwie was my ultimate Metal hero. Metal Be Thy Name – Stone
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.
“This is a journey, an adventure, and a mission.” – Hawthorne Heights
April 7, 2023, Dayton – Hawthorne Heights, who brought the inaugural year of “Is For Lovers Festival” to three cities (Wichita, Denver and Cincinnati) in 2022, have expanded the Summer extravaganza to eight locations for 2023: Hawaii (April 29), Lake Tahoe (June 24), Denver (July 22), Manteo, N.C. (July 29), Council Bluffs (Aug. 19 & 20), Cincinnati (Sept. 9), Pelham, Tenn. (Sept. 10), and Mansfield, Mass. (Sept. 17).
“In year one, we got to go to a few of our favorite cities, with bands that are our friends, and some bands that we simply love,” explains JT Woodruff, Hawthorne Heights’ vocalist and co-curator of the “Is For Lovers Festival.” “We want to give fans an inclusionary place to go that features a wide variety of bands from all walks of life, and we want to do it with a smile on our face, because we have chosen to work with people who we love and respect. The most important part for us is to make sure that the fan experience is equal to the band experience. We just want everyone to have fun, and have an easy day together.”
Artists, which vary from location to location, include Jimmy Eat World, Thrice, Alkaline Trio, The Story So Far, 3OH!3, Bayside, Underoath, State Champs, Mayday Parade, Thursday, and more. See below for line-ups by location.
“Is For Lovers Festival” also makes a point of incorporating local businesses, both via the food options on site but also featuring an adjacent marketplace and activities area showcasing local makers and creators. There will be onsite activations designed to give the fans a fun and unique way to enjoy their time in between seeing their favorite artists. Back for the second year will be a coffee booth, which is partnered with a local coffee shop, and helped run by the band. JT adds: “I had a lot of fun masquerading as a barista last year and serving Hawthorne Heights themed drinks like ‘Oat-Hio is for Lovers, which was a crowd pleaser… so why not run it back?”
Tickets for all dates are on-sale with VIP options available simultaneously. Visit Isforloversfestival.com for additional info and ticketing links.
“Is For Lovers Festival” dates:
April 29 – Hawaii Is For Lovers – Wet n’ Wild Water Park June 24 – Lake Tahoe Is For Lovers – Outdoor Arena at Harveys July 22 – Colorado Is For Lovers – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre July 29 – OBX Is For Lovers – Roanoke Island Festival Park August 19 & 20 – Iowa Is For Lovers – Harrah’s Council Bluffs September 9 – Ohio Is For Lovers – PNC at Riverbend Amphitheatre September 10 – Tennessee Is For Lovers – The Caverns September 17 – Massachusetts Is For Lovers – Xfinity Center
“Hawaii Is For Lovers”: Bayside, Mayday Parade, State Champs, Hawthorne Heights, Emery
“OBX Is For Lovers”: Thrice, Bayside, Hawthorne Heights, 3OH!3, Four Year Strong, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, and Frontside.
“Iowa Is For Lovers”: The Story So Far, Thrice, Bayside, Mayday Parade, Silverstein, Anberlin, Hawthorne Heights, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Spitalfield, The Forecast, and Proper.
“Ohio Is For Lovers”: Jimmy Eat World, Alkaline Trio, Underoath, State Champs, Saosin, Hawthorne Heights, The Starting Line, Relient K, KennyHoopla, Four Year Strong, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Spitalfield, Motherfolk, The Missed, Sign Language, Slutbomb, Skye Wallace, Proper., Nox Novacula, Knavery, Life In Idle, Xanny Stars, and Lost Henry.
“Tennessee Is For Lovers”: Underoath, Bayside, Mayday Parade, Thursday, State Champs, Hawthorne Heights, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Spitalfield, Winona Fighter, Proper., Khamsin, Skye Wallace, and a special acoustic performance by Hawthorne Heights in The Cave.
Line-ups for “Colorado Is For Lovers,” “Lake Tahoe Is For Lovers,” and “Massachusetts Is For Lovers” will be revealed soon.
Photo credit: Courtney Kiara
Hawthorne Heights formed in Dayton, Ohio in 2001. The band has released seven albums over the past 22 years: The Silence in Black and White (2004), If Only You Were Lonely (2006), Fragile Future (2008), Skeletons (2010), Zero (2013), Bad Frequencies (2018) and The Rain Just Follows Me (2021). Alternative Press dubbed them “the kings of writing knockout choruses,” Rolling Stone hailed them as the “grassroots chart kings,” in a nod to the band’s many impressive Billboard debuts including four of their seven albums in the Top 100, and New Noisedescribed their music as “effortless joy.” Hawthorne Heights is JTWoodruff (vocals/guitar), Matt Ridenour (bass), Mark McMillon (guitar), and Chris Popadak (drums).
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
April 28, 2023 sees horror punk act DARKER DAYS release their much-awaited, first full-length album “The Burying Point”on Fiend Force Records, licensed by Massacre Records!
Hailing from the Halloween capitol Salem, Massachusetts, the band poured everything they had into this record and pulled inspiration from some of their favorite bands: AFI, The Misfits or Blitzkid. Lyrically, DARKER DAYS touched on things like their favorite horror movies as well as real-life hardships. Needless to say, that the dark history of their hometown Salem and all of New England – with Nathaniel Hawthorne in Salem, H.P. Lovecraft in Providence and Stephen King in Bangor – along with the bleak countryside had a big influence on them as well.
Today, DARKER DAYS are premiering a first single taken of their upcoming debut, feat. TB Monstrosity of BLITZKID! T.B. Monstrosity is the co-singer and songwriter of Horror Punk legendes Blitzkid, probably the most popular band in the genre besides the forefathers The Misfits. Blitzkid and Darker Days have been friends for years, so this collaboration has naturally grown out of their shared history. TB’s unique voice gives the song its very own atmosphere and harmonizes impressively with the melancholy of the track and Darker Days singer Mason’s vocals. Both the classic horror theme and the musical realization, as well as the guest appearance of the Blitzkid singer make “1818” an instant hit in the horror punk community.
Watch the new DARKER DAYS video for “1818”, now premiering HERE
“1818 is an ode to the work of one of our favorite authors Mary Shelly- being told from the perspective of ‘Frankenstein’s monster’ and the feelings he has of wanting to find happiness even though the world views him as a monster“, the band comments.
DARKER DAYS are: Mason Eaton – Vocals Nick Sullivan – Guitars Travis Hunter – Guitars Ron Bailey – Bass Randy Mason – Drums
Their upcoming album “The Burying Point” was produced by Chris Curran and Kyle Blamy, and was mixed and mastered by Chris Curran. Slated for a release on April 28, 2023, the album pre-sale is available at THIS LOCATION!
Respected vocalist and guitarist Mike Tramp has announced the upcoming release of “The Songs Of White Lion,” via Frontiers Music Srl on April14, 2023. As the title implies, the album sees Tramp re-imagining select cuts from his former band White Lion‘s catalog. Additionally, Tramp will be embarking on a ‘Songs of White Lion’ U.S. tour in May 2023. Dates can be seen below and on Tramp’s website. https://miketramp.dk/
“For me, the period of 1983-1991 was a once in a lifetime experience. Everything I did back then was for the first time, and even though it was beyond exciting and adventurous, when it came to an end, it was more than just the end of a band, it was also the end of a very specific time in my life that I had lived and been part of. Over the next 20 years, I would revisit that time in my life in small parts, but never felt 100% comfortable with it. I simply could not force myself to recreate what I once was,” says Tramp.
“Now, here I am again, the year is 2023 and I have recorded an album of the ‘big’ White Lion songs as close to the originals as possible, but exploring small new parts that today I feel should be that way. I am not 26 anymore, I don’t sing like I am 26, and I wouldn’t be doing justice to the songs or myself if I tried to sing like I am 26. Today, I sing the songs that I wrote with Vito Bratta over 40 years ago exactly the way I am today. This is the only way I can embrace them and feel at home and be honest to myself and the songs,” he concludes.
Tramp first came to prominence in the music world with White Lion, who formed in 1983. After signing to Atlantic Records, the band enjoyed great success with the release of their second album, “Pride” in 1987, which included the hits ‘Wait’ and ‘When the Children Cry’. The band’s third album, “Big Game” (1991) and fourth album, “Mane Attraction” (1992) continued the band’s winning streak, but ultimately White Lion disbanded in 1992.
After White Lion, Tramp formed the hard rock band Freak Of Nature, who had a decidedly darker and harder vibe than White Lion. Freak Of Nature would release three studio albums before disbanding in 1996.
In 1998, Tramp initially started his solo career. His debut solo album, “Capricorn” came out in 1998 and in 2002, his second solo album, “Recovering The Wasted Years” was released. Tramp would then take a break from his solo career from 2004-2008 to tour and record under the name Mike Tramp’s White Lion and eventually under the name White Lion, releasing the album “Return Of The Pride” in 2008.
Since 2009, Tramp has been writing and recording as a solo artist releasing nine studio albums, including his most recent, 2022’s “For Første Gang”. He has also been a consistent presence on the road, both as an acoustic solo artist and with a backing band, with no plans of slowing down anytime soon.
Produced by: Soren Andersen & Mike Tramp
Keep an eye out for news about the release of “The Songs Of White Lion” and upcoming tour dates by following Tramp’s social media at the links below.
Line-Up: Mike Tramp – Vocals Marcus Nand – Guitars Claus Langeskov – Bass Alan Tschicaja – Drums Sebastian Groset – Keyboard Christoffer Stjerne – Harmonies
“Songs Of White Lion” tracklisting:
Lady Of The Valley Little Fighter Broken Heart Love Don’t Come Easy Hungry Cry For Freedom Going Home Tonight Wait All The Fallen Men Living On The Edge Tell Me When The Children Cry
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
KISS – Detroit, Michigan – Nashville, Tennessee – St. Louis, Missouri and Ft. Worth, Texas have been added for October 2023! Check out the dates and complete tour schedule below!
KISS Army and VIP Package presale begins April 3rd at 10am local time.
4/12/23 Manaus, Brazil 4/15/23 Bogota, Colombia 4/18/23 Brasília, Brazil 4/20/23 Belo Horizonte 4/22/23 São Paulo, Brazil 4/25/23 Florianópolis, Brazil 4/28/23 Buenos Aires, Argentina 4/30/23 Santiago, Chile 5/4/23 San Salvador, El Salvador 5/27/23 Columbus, OH 6/3/23 Plymouth, UK 6/5/23 Birmingham, UK 6/6/23 Newcastle, UK 6/10/23 Prague, Czech Republic 6/12/23 Amsterdam, Netherlands 6/13/23 Belgium, Brussels 6/15/23 Clisson, France 6/17/23 Munich, Germany 6/19/23 Kraków, Poland 6/21/23 Dresden, Germany 6/22/23 Berlin, Germany 6/25/23 Cartagena, Spain 6/27/23 Lyon, France 6/29/22 Tuscany, Italy 7/1/23 Manheim, Germany 7/2/23 Cologne, Germany 7/7/23 Manchester, UK 7/8/23 Glasgow, UK 7/5/23 London, UK 7/12/23 Rättvik, Sweden 7/13/23 Rättvik, Sweden 7/15/23 Tonsberg, Norway 10/20/23 Detroit, MI (JUST ADDED) 10/23/23 Nashville, TN (JUST ADDED) 10/25/23 St. Louis, MO (JUST ADDED) 10/27/23 Ft. Worth, TX (JUST ADDED) 10/29/23 Austin, TX 11/1/23 Palm Desert, CA 11/3/23 Los Angeles, CA 11/6/23 Seattle, WA 11/8/23 Vancouver, BC 11/10/23 Edmonton, AB 11/12/23 Calgary, AB 11/13/23 Saskatoon, SK 11/15/23 Winnipeg, MB 11/18/23 Montreal, QC 11/19/23 Quebec, QC 11/21/23 Kanata, ON 11/22/23 Toronto, ON 11/24/23 Knoxville, TN 11/25/23 Indianapolis, IN 11/27/23 Rosemont, IL 11/29/23 Baltimore, MD 12/1/23 New York, NY 12/2/23 New York, NY
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