We are more than proud to present our new single and music video “1589”, which tells the story of Peter Stump, who lived near Cologne, Germany in the 16th century and is known today as the “Werewolf of Bedburg”. After being defamed as a werewolf, the farmer confessed to several murders under torture, and was cruelly executed on October 31, 1589.
Southern California metalcore titans BLEEDING THROUGH have made their awaited return with a brand new single today, aptly titled “Our Brand Is Chaos.” The ruthless new track is their first taste of something the band is currently brewing behind studio doors.
Commenting on the single, lead vocalist Brandan Schieppati states: “Our Brand Is Chaos is a statement. This is about our unrivaled support by our fans, friends and families. Together we are imperfectly perfect, pure chaos and all love. Let this be our anthem through dark time. Fuck with us and find out.“
BLEEDING THROUGH Tour Date: June 15 – Boston, MA – Big Night Live (w/Unearth)
About BLEEDING THROUGH:
Destined for great achievement ever since their formation in 1999, Bleeding Through’s career has been a lengthy and star-studded one, dedicated to delivering a devastating, yet melodic and entrancing, infusion of metal and hardcore to fans worldwide. But, above all else, the band has stayed true to themselves. A testament to their momentous impact on the genre, the quintet has influenced several generations of artists since their inception and will no doubt continue to inspire fans and artists for many years to come.
Having already triumphantly reclaimed the spotlight after their biggest collective hurdle – the 2014 hiatus which many anticipated would be the end of the band’s career as a cohesive unit – Orange County quintet, Brandan Schieppati (vocals), Derek Youngsma (drums), Marta Peterson (keyboards), BrianLeppke (guitar), and Ryan Wombacher (bass), clearly know what it takes for a successful resurgence.
With five Top 50 US charting records, 100 million catalog streams, over 400k physical album sales, and tours with Slipknot, Motionless In White, Lamb of God, and Unearth under their belts, there’s no arguing with the Bleeding Through’s methods and widespread appeal.
Music’s prodigal sons have returned to retake their throne with the release of their latest single ‘Our Brand is Chaos’, and Bleeding Through have no intention of crowning a successor just yet.
Metallic hardcore heavy hitters Sunmancer are poised to shake the foundations of the metalcore scene with their latest video single “Chasm Darkly”. Known for their relentless energy and unyielding heaviness, Sunmacer is also hitting the road with August Burns Red and Fuming Mouth in May (dates listed below) where listeners can catch the track live. The band comments on the song:
“Compared to our other songs, Chasm Darkly came together relatively quickly. This song was written in a span of a few hours, and only very minor tweaks were made after the demo was recorded. Everyone in the band really enjoys the vibe of the song, and it’s the first one that Ramon, our drummer, was able to sing on. The lyrical content is purposely left open to interpretation so that the listener can glean their own meaning. We are extremely proud of this song, and feel that it represents the musical direction we are moving in as a band.”
Lyrically, “Chasm Darkly” can be open to interpretation, but vocalist Justin Mazlik wrote it with his own struggles and anxiety in mind. Musically, Sunmancer wanted this track to have a wide range of feelings – going from heavy riffing with blast beats to epic choruses and calm bridges. They don’t revisit many of the riffs in the song, as to take the listener on more of a “journey” as opposed to just a verse-chorus-verse-chorus structure.
Formed by brothers Kyle and Justin Mazlik, Sunmancer rose from the ashes of Broadcast The Nightmare, carving out their own path in the metal landscape. Teaming up with Atlanta-based guitarist Jeremy Harlan of Faith In Ruin, the band’s lineup solidified with the addition of Dan Nelson on bass and Ramon Rellum on drums.
Chasm Darkly” is intended to be more than just a song, it is an experience – from the intense blast beats to the serene interludes, every element of the track is carefully crafted to evoke emotion and resonate with the audience. It is recommended for fans of Killswitch Engage, Counterparts, and The Black Dahlia Murder.
Spring Fling Tour w/ August Burns Red, Fuming Mouth, Sunmancer:
May 9 – Daytona Beach, FL – Welcome to Rockville * May 10 – Birmingham, AL – Iron City May 11 – Dothan, AL – The Plant May 13 – Columbia, SC – The Senate May 14 – Lexington, KY – Manchester Music Hall May 15 – Chattanooga, TN – The Signal May 16 – Columbus, OH – Sonic Temple Festival *
Beasto Blanco has produced yet another mind blowing single following the release of “Run for Your Life” in February. Fans were treated to a listening party with members of the band on Bandcamp prior to the official release, and the the new single was immediately met with an outpour of love and excitement for the video.
“LOWLANDS” features Calico Cooper at the forefront of vocals this time, with Chuck Garric’s low raspy voice complimenting her perfectly throughout the song. The chorus alone shows not only the power behind Cooper’s voice as she belts out “Home” but gives you a beautiful introduction to her range. A mix between clean and distorted vocals adds to the anger behind the song.
“LOWLANDS” is the auditory representation of the Machine Girl. The song includes strong guitar parts with a war like drum beat keeping time and the Beasto Blanco groove that makes you feel like you are indestructible. While chatting with fans in the Bandcamp party, Cooper stated “I wrote the lyrics when I was a liiiiiittle mad lol” Everyone can always use a song to angrily scream in their car on the way to work.
Cooper also got to show off her high level of creativity and rage in a visual way as she not only starred in but directed the music video. The video is basically split in two, Cooper singing in the rain with dark blue lighting and the story being told within tints of red, yellow and orange. Cooper mentioned to fans on Bandcamp that “I nearly drowned,” and whether she’s serious or joking the amount of rain and splashing added just what was needed to the fury and passion behind the song and made Cooper look terrifyingly beautiful as she sang it. It all seemed to flow very naturally from her. As for the story scenes, there is no better vampire to use than Anthony Montemarano, because what woman wouldn’t get drawn in by that smirk?
The role Montemarano plays is so key to visually depicting not letting love basically blind you from the bad. The very end of the video as Cooper is walking slowly toward the camera with her finger to her lips, ties the whole vibe of I made you and I can take you down cause you don’t control me.
Overall, Beasto Blanco knocked this one out of the park yet again. The band is set to tour Europe with The Dead Daisies in November of this year. The band will also be playing a few of their dates in Europe in late July, early August that include Wacken Open Air 2024 on August 3rd. Keep an eye on Beasto Blanco social media accounts for tour updates, behind the scenes of the music videos, and personal commentary from the members. – Tanis Enos
Challenge The WindDue Out This May On AFM Records!
May 31, 2024 will see symphonic melodic metal overlords Rhapsody Of Fire release their hotly-anticipated, new studio epos ‘Challenge The Wind’ via AFM Records. A new music video for their latest colossal single, “Diamond Claws” (now available on https://rhapsodyoffire.bfan.link/diamond-claws), is premiering today! Watch the band’s new clip below, and pre-order your album copy now athttps://rhapsodyoffire.bfan.link/challenge-the-wind
For more than thirty years, Rhapsody Of Fire have been able to rely on one thing: there’s nothing half-hearted about this band. The Italian masters of their craft can look back at an impressive catalogue of 14 studio albums, three EPs and two live recordings to date, all marked by lots of heart and soul, passion and a virtually inexhaustible wealth of ideas. Since 1993, mastermind and founder Alex Staropoli has been hailed as the creator of the film score metal genre and his band as one of the most charismatic acts worldwide.
In addition, Staropoli has enlisted a highly creative first-rate guitarist in Roby De Micheli, who joined the fold in 2011, contributing lots of gritty metal riffs and virtuoso solos to contrast the band’s symphonic orchestral style.
Challenge The Wind will mark Rhapsody Of Fire‘s most fast-paced rager to date, as the composer and keybordist Staropoli recently revealed: “Compared to all previous Rhapsody Of Fire releases, the current album consists exclusively of up-tempo numbers, not a single ballad in sight. None of our other records have featured as much pure, unadulterated metal as ‘Challenge The Wind’!”
In support of their forthcoming album, the band is gearing up for a busy touring schedule in 2024, with many more shows to follow soon. Find all upcoming Rhapsody Of Fire dates listed below!
Challenge The Wind was produced by Alex Staropoli and mixed by Seeb Levermann (Orden Ogan), who is responsible for the homogeneous sound of the ten songs’ elaborate arrangements. As all of the band’s first single releases prove, one can be sure: Rhapsody Of Fire’s fast-paced adventure is set to continue with undiminished intensity! Pre-order Challenge The WindHERE!
Challenge The Wind track-list:
Challenge the Wind
Whispers of Doom
The Bloody Pariah
Vanquished by Shadows
Kreel’s Magic Staff
Diamond Claws
Black Wizard
A Brave New Hope
Holy Downfall
Mastered by the Dark
Rhapsody Of Fire: Giacomo Voli (vocals) Alex Staropoli (keyboards) Roby De Micheli (guitars) Alessandro Sala (bass) Paolo Marchesich (drums)
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Rhapsody Of Fire Live: 05.05.2024 (MX) EL CONDE, Foro 360 07.05.2024 (CO) BOGOTA, Astor Plaza 09.05.2024 (BR) SAO PAULO, Caricoa Club 10.05.2024 (CL) SANTIAGO, Blondie 11.05.2024 (AR) COMUNA 1, El Teatrito 18.05.2024 (IT) TREZZO SULL’ ADDA MI, Live Club 29.06.2024 (FR) CLISSON, Hellfest 13.07.2024 (BG) MOGILOVO, Midalidare Rock in the Wine Valley 2024 19.07.2024 (FI) PERUNKA, John Smith Rock Festival 07.11.2024 (SE) MALMOE, Plan B 08.11.2024 (SE) GOTHENBURG, Surr Arena 09.11.2024 (SE) STOCKHOLM, Fryshuset Klubben 10.11.2024 (SE) GAVLE, Centralteatern
After two years dedicated to writing and recording, the band is ready to unveil their eagerly awaited new creation, Voices Beneath the Rubble. This monumental offering serves as a concept album, showcasing the band’s evolution as musicians and storytellers. With Voices Beneath the Rubble, DRIFTINTO BLACK delivers a sonic journey that traverses a range of emotions.
Black Lion Records will release Voices Beneath the Rubble on June 28. Pre-order/pre-save the album at orcd.co/voices-beneath-the-rubble.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of Candlemass, My Dying Bride, Paradise Lost, and Amorphis, DRIFT INTO BLACK‘s sound is a fusion of gothic doom, traditional heavy metal, and some progressive elements, all imbued with emotional depth. With Voices Beneath the Rubble, DRIFTINTOBLACK has created their most immersive album to date.
Track-list:
The Horns of Despair
In Turmoil
The Great Machine
Voices Beneath the Rubble
Last Hope
Forever King
Blood Storm
What’s Left In The Fire
Turning Of The Tide
December
Originally from Sayreville New Jersey, DRIFT INTO BLACK started their journey into doom metal in 2018 as a one-man band masterminded by Craig Rossi (ex-Grey Skies Fallen). Bassist/guitarist Paul Laplaca and drummer KlemenMarkelj joined as official members after the band’s third release. With each release, DRIFT INTO BLACK continues to evolve sonically by touching on many different metal genres while still holding on to their doom roots.
Ahead of the eagerly awaited new album It Beckons Us All from Darkthrone, the band give fans a final tease of what is awaiting them with the release of the official video for “The Bird People Of Nordland”. Video created by Matthew Vickerstaff .
Whilst freely admitting the concept for the song “Not a very metal subject, sorry!” Fenriz explains “ it’s about the EIDER bird and Nordland. Many years ago I saw a Norwegian documentary with the symbiotic relationship the coast people of Nordland had with the bird. They watched over the nests and in return could pick the eider for pillows clothing, warmth etc. So that is what the lyrics are about.” But, he continues “again, this is Ted’s song so a bit hard for me to comment on it musically but I will tell you all what I think when I hear it:
First of we have a typical grim Ted riff for the verse, then he surprises with a catchy riff for the refrain AND THEN comes my fave part of the album; the post-refrain riff which sounds like Queensryche 1984 style and you can also hear how much we enjoy to play it! EXACTLY where I want to be! Could have played that riff for 8 minutes straight, haha! This loops again with the refrain again without singing and then back to Queensryche ’84. Then first riff again with my added harmony guitar playing on it, what our studio man Ole Øvstedal called “the Corleone part.
A break arrives and then things are sped up (not faster than Yardbirds in 64, we are not an extreme metal band, more like MODERAT EPIC) which corresponds with a slower heavy metal riff where we also brought out the mellotrone if I remember correctly.
Then Ted bombs you with a final part, primitive d-beat thrash with a riff that sounds like Tom G Warrior made it and I also ordered Ted to lay on some hellish guitars. Anyway, I LIVE for that queensryche 84 riff, Ted!”
Humble as ever Nocturno Culto states“Well, AGAIN, talking about our music really blows or is very difficult, at least for me. Personally, music is a floating thing, and I am having a hard time to try to break it down. It´s metal, a bit of heavy/doom/black/thrash, that is Darkthrone now, mixing genres has been something we have done since A Blaze, and especially since 2005. And I am just looking forward on new material, new riffs and ideas.”
Just one more sleep until It Beckons Us All, Darkthrone’s new masterpiece, is unleashed in full!
Limited Edition Deluxe boxed edition: includes It Beckons Us All on CD, an exclusive corona vinyl LP & cassette and art prints all housed in a heavy duty lift off lid box
Limited edition ‘Fenriz’ edition LP on blue marble coloured vinyl– exclusively available through the Peaceville stores – VERY FEW COPIES LEFT!!
Limited edition ‘Nocturno Culto’ edition LP on grey marble coloured vinyl–available through the Peaceville stores
Plus other limited edition coloured vinyl LPs are available in stores across the world – cream white, crystal clear, petrol and .. a collectors dream .. if you can find them!
Canadian metal legends ANVIL have announced their new studio album, ‘One And Only’, for a release on June 28, 2024 via powerhouse label AFM Records! A first video single, “Feed Your Fantasy” has just been premiered and is now streaming below.
When it comes to the most influential bands in the history of heavy metal, authorities on the subject regularly vote ANVIL among the top positions. The group from Toronto, Canada, with its two masterminds, Steve ‘Lips’ Kudlow and Robb Reiner, with bassist Chris Robertson, not only looks back at an impressive career with countless highlights – as well as a number of well-documented difficulties – but has also had a lasting influence on lots of internationally renowned musicians, from Metallica to Slayer and beyond.
One And Only sees the band provide first-rate ANVIL entertainment: While Guitarist/vocalist Lips is considered to be one of the most creative and interesting storytellers of the metal genre, Chris Robertson and Robb Reiner keep the up the pace with their usual confidence, providing the perfect rhythm section for Lips. Although they have experienced the tough and frequently merciless side of the music industry on a number of occasions, ANVIL never lost their idealism, motivation and energy, which is immediately evident on One AndOnly.
Like its four predecessors,One And Only was produced by Martin ‘Mattes’ Pfeiffer (U.D.O., among others) and Jörg Uken at his Soundlodge studio. As far as Lips is concerned, Pfeiffer and Uken are “… our one and only choice. As usual, Mattes and Jörg did a great job in choosing our best playing and making sure it has top notch sound. Great guys who understand the band and know what suits us best.”
Pre-Order One And Only – due out on June 28, 2024 via AFM Records, HERE!
One And Only – tracklisting: 01 – One And Only 02 – Feed Your Fantasy 03 – Fight For Your Rights 04 – Heartbroken 05 – Gold And Diamonds 06 – Dead Man Shoes 07 – Truth Is Dying 08 – Rocking The World 09 – Run Away 10 – World Of Fools 11 – Condemned Liberty 12 – Blind Rage
ANVIL live: 02.05.2024 (CA) Ajax / The Edge 25.05.2024 (DE) Schönenberg-Kübelberg / Iron Fest Open Air 29.06.2024 (FR) Clisson, Hellfest 22.11.2024 (DE) Weissenhäuser Strand / Metal Hammer Paradise
NECROT will return to the stage this June on a massive North American headlining tour! The Lifeless Birth Tour 2024 commences on June 5th in Berkeley, California and winds its way through nearly three dozen cities, concluding on July 13th in Portland, Oregon. Support will be provided by Street Tombs as well as BAT and Phobophilic on select dates. The trek follows the band’s recent run supporting Municipal Waste on the inaugural Brainsqueeze Tour.
Comments bassist/vocalist Luca Indrio, “You already know it. The Lifeless Birth album release tour is going to be a savagely brutal one! I’m sure our loyal fans are going to be there to rage and destroy every fucking night. These shows are going to be pure madness; you are not going to regret being there, but you might regret not showing up. If you feel like you need a night of good metal you better be there early. The support bands are insanely good. BAT has a new album out for the tour just like us, Street Tombs is representing for [drummer] Chad [Gailey]’s label, Carbonized plus Phobophilic is joining us late in the tour, all such sick bands. Epic as fuck. See you all at the shows!”
Tickets go on sale this Friday, March 29th at 12:00pm ET at necrot.com! See all confirmed dates below.
NECROT w/ BAT, Street Tombs: 6/05/2024 The Cornerstone – Berkeley, CA 6/06/2024 Constellation Room – Santa Ana, CA 6/07/2024 First St. Billiards – Los Angeles, CA 6/08/2024 Brick By Brick – San Diego, CA 6/09/2024 Nile Underground – Phoenix, AZ 6/10/2024 The Launchpad – Albuquerque, NM 6/12/2024 Parish – Austin, TX 6/13/2024 Three Links – Dallas TX 6/14/2024 Vibes Underground – San Antonio TX 6/15/2024 TBA – Houston, TX 6/16/2024 TBA – New Orleans, LA 6/18/2024 Orpheum – Tampa, FL 6/19/2024 Will’s Pub – Orlando, FL 6/20/2024 Boggs Social – Atlanta, GA 6/21/2024 New Brookland Tavern – Columbia SC 6/22/2024 Chapel Of Bones – Raleigh, NC 6/23/2024 Cattivo – Pittsburgh, PA 6/24/2024 Metro Gallery – Baltimore, MD 6/25/2024 Broken Goblet – Bensalem, PA 6/26/2024 The Meadows – Brooklyn, NY 6/27/2024 Sonia – Boston, MA w/ Phobophilic, Street Tombs: 6/28/2024 Le Source – Quebec City, QC 6/29/2024 Piranha Bar – Montreal, QC 6/30/2024 Dominion Tavern – Ottawa ON 7/01/2024 Hard Luck Bar – Toronto, ON 7/02/2024 Sanctuary – Detroit, MI 7/03/2024 Reggies – Chicago, IL 7/05/2024 The Swamp – Lincoln, NE 7/06/2024 Oriental Theatre – Denver, CO 7/07/2024 Aces High Saloon – Salt Lake City, UT 7/09/2024 The Shredder – Boise, ID 7/10/2024 Ray’s Golden Lion – Richland, WA 7/11/2024 The Cobalt – Vancouver, BC 7/12/2024 Clock Out Lounge – Seattle WA 7/13/2024 The Star Theatre – Portland, OR
NECROT will be touring in support of their Lifeless Birth full-length, set to drop on April 12th via Tankcrimes.
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.
Lifeless Birth, which features cover art again by Marald Van Haasteren, will be released on CD, cassette, and digital formats as well as an LP in several different and exciting vinyl variants all housed in a golden foil stamped gatefold jacket. Recorded with Grammy-winning producer Greg Wilkinson who has helmed all three NECROT albums and mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege.
In honor of Lifeless Birth, NECROT will appear on the May 2024 cover of Decibel Magazine, marking their second appearance on the cover of the esteemed publication.
Don’t miss it! Order your copy today at THIS LOCATION.
Find LP preorders HERE, CD preorders HERE, cassette preorders HERE, and digital preorders HERE where the band’s previously released singles, “Cut The Cord,” and “Drill The Skull” can be streamed.
After having their Mortal tour plans scuttled owing to the COVID pandemic, family health issues that led Indrio, who became a US citizen in 2016 and currently lives in Mexico, to return to Italy for a time canceled what would have been their first tour post-plague. Still, despite this and Gailey suffering a broken back, requiring multiple surgeries and intense physical therapy to be able to drum again, period, Indrio being struck with Bell’s Palsy the night before he was originally due to fly to the studio to record, and Reinhardt requiring multiple surgeries on his hands in the months since they finished, NECROT charges forward with material distinguished in its real-world point of view and willingness to look beyond extreme metal tropes in lyrics, the melodies of its guitar solos, and unbridled audience engagement.
Philadelphia’s MALPHAS return with the second single/video off their sophomore full-length. Listen to “Leviathan’s Moonlit Sanctum” at all streaming/download platforms now. In addition, the band has also premiered a new music video HERE .
“Leviathan’ marks the point in the story where Malphas returns to the real world. He and his demons murder the power elite figures on the island, but then travel to a nearby village and subjugate the people there,” explains singer/guitarist Paul DeSanctis. “The main character has a vision where he sees a demonic totalitarian government on the other side of the portal; he realizes he’s left the door wide open for them to take over.”
Both songs continue the tale and concept revolving around the demon Malphas and his encounters with people in life and death that the melodic death/black metal band began telling on their debut ‘The 39th Spirit’ released on Poland’s Via Nocturna in 2018.
’Portal’ takes place chronologically two hundred years prior to the events of ‘The 39th Spirit,’ explains Paul. “The album explores new themes like politics, economics, and historical events in fleshing out how the dystopian world in ‘The 39th Spirit’ comes to be.
‘Portal’ was recorded, mixed and mastered by Chris Kelly (Ice Nine Kills, Baby Metal, Galactic Empire). The new album, ‘Portal,’ will be released on CD and digital platforms March 29th and is available for preorder now HERE.
About MALPHAS: Founded by Paul DeSanctis and drummer Eric Dunleavy in 2012, guitarist Damian DiFrancesco and bassist Joshua DeJesus joined the lineup in 2014 and 2019 respectively. Appealing to fans of CHILDREN OF BODOM, WINTERSUN, DIMMU BORGIR, SEPTIC FLESH, and IMMORTAL, MALPHAS produce a sound comprised of symphonic melodic death and black metal.
The band debuted with their EP The ‘Conjuring’ in 2015 followed by their first full-length, ‘The 39th Spirit’ in 2018. MALPHAS have toured Europe supporting Norway’s Keep of Kalessin and Finland’s Shade Empire, with US runs opening for Tengger Cavalry, Felix Martin, and Helsott.
Upcoming Record Release shows:
3/29 – Our Wicked Lady – Brooklyn, NY
3/30 – Record Release Show – The Nail – Ardmore, PA
Edward Escamilla, lead guitarist of Chicago based thrash metal band REIGN has joined WAR CURSE, replacing co-founder and lead guitarist Joshua Murphy. The lineup change comes on the tail of the band’s Metal Blade Records / Blacklight Media debut album, Confession, which was released October 20th, 2023.
Guitarist Justin Roth comments: “It’s on the best of terms that we thank Joshua Murphy for ten years of commitment and for his invaluable contributions to WAR CURSE. Murphy is truly like a brother to me. We’ve played in bands together for the last 20 years, spent holidays with each others’ families, and driven each other up a wall on occasion, as brothers do. I speak for all of us when I say that we’ll miss his shenanigans. But as they say, the show must go on.”
We had conversations with a few guitarists, but ultimately Ed was our first choice. We were stoked when he accepted our offer to join. The dude absolutely rips, and more importantly, we like him as a person. Talent matters, but so does liking the people you’re going to be stuck in a van with. We’re optimistic about the band’s future and embracing the change.”
Roth continued: “We’ve wasted no time getting new music ready to record. I’ve been demo recording new material nonstop since the week after Confession was handed in. I truly believe that I’m writing the best material of my career right now. We tried some new things on Confession. I really like some of it. Some of it will never be revisited. We’re constantly evolving. Some of the new stuff is heavier than hell. Heavier than I ever saw us going with WAR CURSE. It’s a lot of fun. But we’re always working. We’re a band that’s laser-focused on the future.”
Listen to WAR CURSE’s most recent album Confession on Spotify:
SIX FEET UNDER will unleash their pulverizing fourteenth studio album, Killing For Revenge, on May 10th through Metal Blade Records.
From the opening moments of first single, “Know-Nothing Ingrate,” which kicks off the record, it’s immediately clear that SIX FEET UNDER focused their energies into something that’s as brutal, lyrically visceral, and musically dazzling as one would hope for from the ground-breaking Tampa-bred death metal. Killing For Revenge, a gnarly beast of a record that’s not for the faint-hearted, dishes up nightmare-inducing imagery courtesy of frontman Chris Barnes via the vocalist’s trademark guttural vocals. Both the album title and darkly detailed red-hued album cover by artist Vince Locke are perfect containers for the brutality within.
“I chose the title Killing For Revenge after we completed writing and noticed that all the lyrics and storylines had a common theme of revenge. Revenge by human or revenge by nature,” Barnes says. “The album title describes the flow of the stories within the lyrics perfectly.”
Watch a lyric video for SIX FEET UNDER’s “Know-Nothing Ingrate” at THIS LOCATION.
Killing For Revenge marks the second album that Barnes and guitarist Jack Owen (ex-Cannibal Corpse) have created together since reuniting for 2020’s Nightmares Of The Decomposed. Owen also produced Killing For Revenge. “We worked well together in Cannibal Corpse,” recalls Barnes. “I loved him to death as a friend and a musician, so I’m really comfortable giving him the reins because I just have such great respect for him as an artist.”
The songs on Killing For Revenge dive headfirst into subjects that are as gleefully vile, graphic, and downright grotesque as you might dream of from a Barnes/Owen project. After all, the two men were vital cogs in the Cannibal Corpse band that released such delightfully offensive death metal classics as Butchered At Birth and Tomb Of The Mutilated. SIX FEET UNDER also recorded a cover of Nazareth’s “Hair Of The Dog,” which appears on all formats of Killing For Revenge with the exception of vinyl.
As a first preview of the record, today the band unveils “Know-Nothing Ingrate.” Notes Owen, “This music was written early in the writing process. Wanting to keep the aggression of a prior SIX FEET UNDER song like ‘Amputator,’ I wrote music in the style of early Dark Angel or Kreator, who always had cool driving drumbeats. I had all the riffs in my head as I wrote the drums in a couple hours. Lyrically, I kicked around a phrase that fit the stop parts throughout the song. After coming up with ‘Know-Nothing Ingrate,’ the lyrics wrote themselves. It’s basically about online trolls who voice their uneducated and unnecessarily spiteful review of any artist’s output. You’re entitled to your opinion, and I’m entitled to mine.”
SIX FEET UNDER was initially formed as a side project for Barnes during his final years with the band that he co-founded, Cannibal Corpse. It became the frontman’s sole focus in 1995, coinciding with the release of their debut, Haunted. Only Barnes remains from SIX FEET UNDER’s original incarnation, but the quality has remained remarkably consistent. The current lineup of Barnes, guitarists Owen and Ray Suhy, bassist Jeff Hughell, and drummer Marco Pitruzzella make for a devastating unit.
Killing For Revenge, which features a guest appearance by guitarist Jason Suecof on “Neanderthal,” was mixed and mastered by Chaz Najjar at Badlands Recording in Denver, Colorado. The record will be released on CD and digital formats as well as vinyl in the following color variants:
180g Black (US) Clear w/ Red Bloodshot (US) 180g Black (EU) Crusted Blood Marbled (EU) Khaki Brown Marbled (EU – Ltd. 300) Blood Red Splatter (EU – Ltd. 300) Gold “Black Dust” (EU – Ltd. 200)
UK sludge trio IRON MONKEY today shares new song “Off Switch” from their forthcoming new full-length, Spleen & Goad, set for release on April 5th through Relapse Records!
On Spleen & Goad, the legendary band is as uncompromising as ever, churning out some of the grittiest sounding sludge doom in their twenty-five-plus year history. Dubbed a “doom sludge vanguard” by The Sludgelord, IRON MONKEY lives up to their legacy, absolutely pummeling through each of the nine tracks on their new album.
From the two-ton, heavier-than-anything-else riff opening “Concrete Shock,” IRONMONKEY shows no signs of easing up; fuzzed out guitars crash against pulse-pounding drums, set against vicious, misanthropic snarls and barks. Elsewhere, tracks like the aptly titled “Rat Flag” kicks the band into high gear with palpable fury and malaise.
Check out IRON MONKEY‘s “Off Switch” on YouTube HERE or listen on all streaming services HERE.
Watch IRON MONKEY’s previously released video for first single, “Misanthropizer,” HERE.
Preorder Spleen & Goad on LP, CD, and digital formats via Relapse.comHERE.
Recorded in their native Nottingham, Spleen & Goad was mastered stateside by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege.
IRON MONKEY was formed in the year 1994AD in the city of Nottingham, England. The original members were J.P. Morrow, J. Rushby, D. Dalziel, S. Watson, and J. Greaves. IRON MONKEY released six tracks of raw sludge-core via the label Union Mill that were later re-released on Earache Records. During this period S. Watson was replaced by D. Berry.
1998 saw the release of the album Our Problem, widely regarded as a masterpiece of negative rock. This was succeeded by a split EP on Man’s Ruin Records with Church Of Misery from Japan.
IRON MONKEY destroyed itself sometime in 1999. Vocalist J. Morrow died from heart failure in June 2002. Rest In Noise…
The band reformed in the winter of 2016 with original members J. Rushby and S. Watson with the addition of the then Chaos UK drummer Brigga. As of 2023, IRON MONKEY are back with a new lineup featuring founding member J. Rushby and D. Berry from the Our Problem sessions and ex-Widows drummer Z. Big.
Detroit (MI) – Melodic Power Thrashers AMONG THESE ASHES have released “Restless Gypsy,” a cover of the W.A.S.P. classic on all major streaming platforms, including the following:
Guitarist/Backing Vocalist Richard Clark released the following statement on the decision to cover the song:
“W.A.S.P. embodies so much of what I love about metal, and at that band’s core has always been masterful, memorable songwriting. Restless Gypsy has long resonated with me as a great song, and JP [Abboud] and I have been discussing covering this track since we started this band in 2020. We’ve slightly reconfigured a few of the riffs to put our stamp on the song while prioritizing staying true to the original recording. Matt Ries from Traveler gave us an awesome guest solo on it. Also, Matt Roach gave us an excellent mix and master that perfectly captures the atmospheric elements of the 1980s recording. We intentionally dropped this cover so that we could make a content release prior to the release of our second album. The new album is completely tracked, and we expect to drop it in summer 2024.”
Line-Up:
JP Abboud: Vocals Richard Clark: Guitars and backing vocals Dylan Hamann: Guitars Kane Bochatyn: Bass Kyle Wagner: Drums
BIO: Among These Ashes is a melodic power/thrash metal band hailing from Detroit, MI. The central focus of this band is creating stellar, highly-memorable metal songs. The band’s sound is crushingly heavy and punctuated by cerebral arrangements, thought-provoking lyrics, and dynamic shifts in tempo and aggression. The band’s debut musical offering, Dominion Enthroned, is a conceptual tour de force inspired by modern societal parallels and struggles. In April 2023, the band released the single “The Enemy In I” with a b-side cover of Savatage’s “Sirens.”
Credits:
Guest guitar solo: Matt Ries (Traveler).
Recorded by Among These Ashes. Mixed and Mastered by Matt Roach.
From the heart of the Chicago underground metal scene arises epic traditional/doom metal collective ÇÖKÜŞ, today unveiling an earthmoving new single, “Wolf Moon.”
Chicago-based ÇÖKÜŞ is the product of ten years of mostly virtual collaboration between former Earthen Grave bandmates, vocalist Mark Weiner, drummer Chris Wozniak (Vanishment, Lair Of The Minotaur), and guitarist Jason Muxlow (Witchcryer, The Living Fields).
Even though Muxlow and Wozniak had moved thousands of miles away after the abrupt conclusion of Earthen Grave in 2013, the three stayed in touch, trading riffs, beats, and lyrics from their respective corners of the United States. The material that emerged saw influences from the usual suspects — Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Trouble, Dio — as well as old favorites like Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, and Kyuss.
Shortly before the pandemic, the group started meeting periodically in Chicago to write and record. Embracing a shorter, more polished format than their previous engagement, they privately released a demo under the moniker WMW in 2020, which generated a lot of buzz and positive feedback among those who had access to the recording.
Watch ÇÖKÜŞ’ “Wolf Moon” visualizer HERE and stream the song HERE.
In 2021, the group re-branded as ÇÖKÜŞ (pronounced cho-koosh; Turkish for “decline” or “collapse”) and recruited bassist and longtime friend Patrick Green to complete the lineup and the material which will become the band’s debut album. Soon after, they were joined by another old friend, Steve Ligeza (Torg, Makahiya), on second guitar, and ÇÖKÜŞ began playing live.
ÇÖKÜŞ’ first album, An Hour Of Lies, was captured in three states – Illinois, Washington, and Texas – the drums and vocals recorded by John E. Bohmher, Jr. at Berwyn Recording, the bass recorded by Patrick Green, and the guitars recorded by Jason Muxlow, the finished recordings were mixed by Chris Wozniak and mastered by Chris Hanzsek (Melvins, Soundgarden, Helms Alee).
The visual elements including the logo, album and single art, and video content was handled by Tom Denney (Soilent Green, Weedeater, Rwake)
While An Hour Of Lies will be released late this Summer, ÇÖKÜŞ presents a harbinger of the record with the new single, “Wolf Moon,” with it writing, “‘Wolf Moon’ is one of the last — and longer — songs written for the album, but quickly became a favorite, so we decided to release this one first. It’s a lot of fun to play, too. Musically, it features some odd scales and feels, which complement the lyrical themes well. It pairs well with Halloween and haunted walks through the woods.”
The full details on An Hour Of Lies will be issued in the months ahead and will be released by QumranRecords late this Summer.
ÇÖKÜŞ: Mark Weiner – vocals Jason Muxlow – guitar Steve Ligeza – guitar Patrick Green – bass Chris Wozniak – drums
Following ‘Kreel’s Magic Staff’, a first single and album harbinger released in 2023, Rhapsody Of Fire have revealed full details about their brand new studio offering, entitled ‘Challenge The Wind’, due out this May! In support, the band has announced a busy touring schedule, with many more shows to follow soon. Find all upcoming Rhapsody Of Fire dates listed below!
Their upcoming studio album, ‘Challenge The Wind’, is slated for a release on May 31, 2024 via AFM Records, the pre-sale has started today at:
For more than thirty years, fans of symphonic melodic metal act Rhapsody Of Fire have been able to rely on one thing: there’s nothing half-hearted about this band. The Italian masters of their craft can look back at an impressive catalogue of 14 studio albums, three EPs and two live recordings to date, all marked by lots of heart and soul, passion and a virtually inexhaustible wealth of ideas. Since 1993, mastermind and founder Alex Staropoli has been hailed as the creator of the film score metal genre and his band as one of the most charismatic acts worldwide. In addition, Staropoli has enlisted a highly creative first-rate guitarist in Roby De Micheli, who joined the fold in 2011, contributing lots of gritty metal riffs and virtuoso solos to contrast the band’s symphonic orchestral style.
The song is out now on all digital streaming services via:
Rhapsody Of Fire: Giacomo Voli (vocals) Alex Staropoli (keyboards) Roby De Micheli (guitars) Alessandro Sala (bass) Paolo Marchesich (drums)
The album will mark Rhapsody Of Fire‘s most fast-paced rager to date. “Compared to all previous Rhapsody Of Fire releases, the current album consists exclusively of up-tempo numbers, not a single ballad in sight,”reveals composer and keyboardistAlexStaropoli. None of our other records have featured as much pure, unadulterated metal as ‘Challenge The Wind’!” Give ear, today, Rhapsody Of Fire are premiering a music video for their new single, the album title track!
Staropoli adds: “The new Rhapsody Of Fire single “Challenge The Wind” is another strong musical statement from the band. Speed, energy, orchestrations, shredding guitars, amazing vocals and choirs; truly epic and divine music. Expect to be blown away, the entire album will shake you to your core!”
Challenge The Wind’ was produced by Alex Staropoli and mixed by Seeb Levermann (Orden Ogan), who is responsible for the homogeneous sound of the ten songs’ elaborate arrangements. As the first single releases prove, one can be sure: Rhapsody Of Fire’s fast-paced adventure is set to continue with undiminished intensity!
‘Challenge The Wind’ tracklist:
Challenge the Wind
Whispers of Doom
The Bloody Pariah
Vanquished by Shadows
Kreel’s Magic Staff
Diamond Claws
Black Wizard
A Brave New Hope
Holy Downfall
Mastered by the Dark
Rhapsody Of Fire Live: 05.05.2024 (MX) EL CONDE, Foro 360 07.05.2024 (CO) BOGOTA, Astor Plaza 09.05.2024 (BR) SAO PAULO, Caricoa Club 10.05.2024 (CL) SANTIAGO, Blondie 11.05.2024 (AR) COMUNA 1, El Teatrito 18.05.2024 (IT) TREZZO SULL’ ADDA MI, Live Club 29.06.2024 (FR) CLISSON, Hellfest 13.07.2024 (BG) MOGILOVO, Midalidare Rock in the Wine Valley 2024 19.07.2024 (FI) PERUNKA, John Smith Rock Festival 07.11.2024 (SE) MALMOE, Plan B 08.11.2024 (SE) GOTHENBURG, Surr Arena 09.11.2024 (SE) STOCKHOLM, Fryshuset Klubben 10.11.2024 (SE) GAVLE, Centralteatern
International melodic death metal project ACT OF DENIAL has dropped the lyric video for their latest single ‘Unbury The Hatchet’, which bring you back to 90 and early 2000 with some old school Gothenburg vibe. The single has a new guest on drums, Eugene Ryabchenko (best known as drummer of FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE).
“We are extremely happy that we have a new song out after almost 3 years together with a new lyric video. Once again video is done by our buddy Wanderley Perna who did also our 1st lyric video for ‘Your Dark Desires’ from our debut album and he did an amazing job as always. Thx bro!!
We are also satisfied that we are recording again since it is very difficult for us at this point. People we are working with, are very busy already with their own bands and it is hard to find any time for some side projects. 1st album was made during Covid time when everyone was stuck at home, so they had time, now is completely different situation but somehow we’re still managing.
Also thanks every AOD fans and supporters for making this happen. What everyone is wondering and asking us lately, will there be a new album from AOD soon? Unfortunately I can’t confirm anything about that topic, as already said, some of the guys already started their tours or they will start it soon, but I can give a hint about a new song that is in the works with some cool guests, and not only 1 but a few, but we will leave that aside for now.
We will be updating all on our socials when time comes. Stay tuned, healthy and beautiful. As always Rock on!!”
Unbury The Hatchet’ line-up: Voi Cox – Lead guitar, programming Luger – Rhythm guitar Bjorn Speed Strid – Vocals, backing vocals Steve Di Giorgio – Fretless bass Eugene Ryabchenko – Drums John Lönnmyr – Keyboards
Today marks a monumental moment in the metal music scene as DEATH SCYTHE releases their latest single, “Ek Balam,” an epic blend of melodic death metal and ancient Mayan lore. This release promises to captivate listeners with its intense musical journey into the heart of Mayan civilization.
“The band elaborates on the legends that inspired the single: “‘Ek Balam,’ a musical tribute to the Mayan deity, unveils the mystical aura of a cosmic jaguar. Amidst the celestial canvas, Ek Balam emerges as the guardian of the night, the keeper of time, and the protector of the skies. With fiery eyes and a cosmic essence, Ek Balam symbolizes the seamless connection between the earthly and celestial realms. The lyrics narrate the legend of this divine jaguar, a powerful and enigmatic entity gracefully dancing among the stars, resonating with an ethereal melody in the expansive tapestry of the night.”
Recorded with precision and passion, “Ek Balam” stands as a testament to DEATH SCYTHE‘s musical evolution and their commitment to exploring the connections between history and heavy metal. The artwork accompanying the single draws heavily on Mayan iconography, featuring symbols and deities that evoke the ancient world’s complexity and mystique.
Death Scythe:
Gerardo Mendoza (Vocals) Roberto Cervera (Guitars) Rafael Barreiro (Guitars) David Montero (Bass) Ricardo Cruz (Drums)
More about Death Scythe:
DEATH SCYTHE is a Melodic Death Metal Band from Mérida, Yucatán, México. Formed in 2003 by Roberto Cervera and Gerardo Mendoza with the only goal of play pure melodic death metal. In 2006 they release their first self produced demo called Hollow Darkness.
After years in the underground scene of Yucatan the band release in October of 2008 their debut album Killing for Pleasure with 15 songs.
The album included “Hollow Darkness” song that made them gain popularity in the local scene. The “Killing for Pleasure Tour” included cities like Mérida, México City, Cancun and Cd. del Carmen.
After a nine years of silence, DEATH SCYTHE made their return as an active band in June of 2018 with a live concert and started to work in new songs.
In 2020, 12 years since their debut album, DEATH SCYTHE released their album Descending Into Xibalba in February of 2020.
Death Scythe has participated in several online festivals alongside bands such as JINGER, SHOKRAN and ARISE IN STABILITY.
If there is one band that combines a classic approach with fresh ideas and an expansive joy of playing to honor their ancestors from the likes of early Exodus, Metallica, or Slayer, then it is the German heavy metal hellions, VULTURE. On their fourth album Sentinels, set for release on April 12th via Metal Blade Records, they prove once again that tradition and further development are not mutually exclusive, but on the contrary can lead to something extraordinary that leaves no headbanger untouched.
“In direct comparison to the last album, Dealin’ Death, we’ve picked up the pace again noticeably,” elaborates guitarist Stefan Castevet. “We’re bolder and a bit wilder again. It was important to us to be catchy and to include choruses that stick. Of course, we’ve basically retained our style, but we’ve defined the framework of the songs more clearly.”
“In order to create such a monster as Sentinels, some changes were necessary. “It started with the songwriting, where we took more time than usual. We recorded a total of three demos with numerous songs, which we also produced to the best of our ability. This gave us the chance to let our songs sink in as relatively final versions so that we could then choose the best pieces and – at least in part – rework them again.”
VULTURE again recorded with Marco Brinkmann in his Hellforge Studio where there were also some innovations. “We had a clearly structured daily routine, a normal working day with set goals in which we could focus purely on recording the songs. Our previous recordings were a bit less organized which resulted in working overtime for everyone involved at the end. This is one of the reasons why Sentinels is the best sounding VULTURE record to date!”
“In advance of the record’s release, today the band unleashes first single, “Unhallowed & Forgotten,” which serves as a blueprint for the VULTURE style: wild riffs, lots of breaks, and tone changes, furious solos, exploding toms, and a huge chorus! “Lyrically, we also stay true to ourselves,” notes Castevet. “The song is about the Blind Dead film series, whose thirst for blood, like ours, is difficult to quench.”
Watch VULTURE’s “Unhallowed & Forgotten” video, directed by Robert Piel, HERE.
Crystal Clear w/ Black Smoke (US) 180g Black (EU) Blood Red & White Splattered (EU – Ltd. 200) Bright Red White Marbled (EU – Ltd. 700) Special Edition Bundle w/ 12″ (Midnight Blue Marbled), 7″, Patch, Signed Photo, Poster (EU – Ltd. 500)
VULTURE: L. Steeler – vocals S. Castevet – guitars M. Outlaw – guitars A. Axetinctör – bass G. Deceiver – drums
Sentinels Track Listing:
Screams From The Abattoir
Unhallowed & Forgotten
Transylvania
Realm Of The Impaler
Draw Your Blades
Where There’s A Whip (There Is A Way)
Der Tod Trägt Schwarzes Leder
Death Row
Gargoyles
Oathbreaker
Sentinels (Heavier Than Time)
VULTURE Live: 3/14-17/2024 Underground Resistance Festival – Göteborg, SE 4/11/2024 Don’t Panic – Essen, DE * Record Release Show 4/12/2024 Bambi Galore – Hamburg, DE * Record Release Show 4/13/2024 Hühnermanhattan – Halle, DE * Record Release Show 4/26/2024 SWR Festival – Barroselas, PT 5/10/2024 Huginns Awakening Fest – Ostende, BE 5/30 – 6/1/2024 Muskelrock Festival – Alvesta, SE
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
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