Swedish MANIAK will be releasing their new EP, “Speed Metal Terrorist”, on June 18th 2023 via Dawnbreed and De Nihil Records. Stream the single “Nocturnal Hellfire” at THIS LOCATION.
These young lunatics bring back the sound of Belo Horizonte 1985 mixed with the legendary German mid 80’s violent speed metal sound. Mastered by DanSwanö.
The very future of metal is always brought into question by those who dare to question the worthiness and talent of the younger generations. Such fools do not know what they’re missing out on with the sanctity and respect of the old school veins cared for even today by ferociously passionate and talented bands that will be more than adept at keeping that old flame burning strong. With “Speed Metal Terrorist”, MANIAK instantly proves itself to be an up-and-coming whirlwind of blackened speed metal that is not to be underestimated!
Not a single moment throughout this small but unyielding effort is to be swept to the side as we’re given an utterly compelling barrage of unbridled speed, ripping solos and intensity that only the passionate lost in the underground can bring forward, with a viciously raw production that is sure to capture the attention of those exclusively living in the past.
MANIAK is priming themselves to be a name that is not to be denied when it comes to speed metal that is more than worthy of our time, and “Speed Metal Terrorist” is sure to be the first testament as to why MANIAK will be more than competent to carry the torch of the old school when their time comes to bear it.
German metal commandos PRIMAL FEAR are back! Following the release of their chart-topping album Metal Commando in 2020, the band returns with their eleven-track magnum opus titled CodeRed, set for release on September 1st through Atomic Fire.
PRIMAL FEAR today offers up the first single and accompanying video from the record with opening song “Another Hero.” The track appropriately sets the tone for Code Red by delivering, “heavy metal in its purest form while breathing the spirit of current times,” as Rock It! (DE) Magazine’s Jürgen Will stated after an advance listen to the record.
Vocalist Ralf Scheepers elaborates on the song’s lyrical topic, “Sometimes I wish there would be ‘Another Hero’ who shows mankind how to get along with each other in peace and harmony.”
Code Red will be available as a digipak CD, 2xLP in multiple color variants, and digitally.
Preorder Code Red in the physical format of your choice, presave it on your favorite DSP, or preorder it digitally to receive “Another Hero” instantly at THIS LOCATION.
Recorded in Germany at Sebastian “Basi” Roeder‘s Backyard Studios, with the helping hands of vocalist Ralf Scheepers as well as Mitch Kunz, Code Red was produced by bassist MatSinner and co-produced by Scheepers and guitarist Tom Naumann. Long-time PRIMAL FEAR companion Jacob Hansen took care of mixing and mastering at his own Hansen Studios in Denmark once again. Additionally, Stan W.Decker, who created previous works for the band including 2017’s Angels Of Mercy – Live InGermany, 2018’s Apocalypse, and 2021’s I Will BeGone), provided the record’s magnificent artwork.
Subscribe to Atomic Fire Records on YouTube. Listen to “Another Hero” as well as other new tracks in the AFR New Releases playlist on Spotify HERE.
Code Red Track Listing:
Another Hero
Bring That Noise
Deep In The Night
Cancel Culture
Play A Song
The World Is On Fire
Their Gods Have Failed
Steelmelter
Raged By Pain
Forever
Fearless
PRIMAL FEAR Live: 6/24/2023 Koba Live – Abadiño, ES w/ The Unity – Code Red European Tour – Part 1: 9/01/2023 Im Wizemann (Halle) – Stuttgart, DE 9/02/2023 Kaminwerk – Memmingen, DE 9/03/2023 Frankenhalle – Naila , DE 9/05/2023 Backstage (Werk) – Munich, DE 9/06/2023 Zeche – Bochum, DE 9/07/2023 Batschkapp – Frankfurt, DE 9/09/2023 Le Port Franc – Sion, CH 9/10/2023 Z7 – Pratteln, CH
PRIMAL FEAR: Ralf Scheepers – vocals Mat Sinner – bass, vocals Tom Naumann – guitars Alexander Beyrodt – guitars Magnus Karlsson – guitars Michael Ehré – drums
Following their feature in a documentary on Germany’s public TV station SWR about the future of metal, unstoppable progressive symphonic power metal machine INDUCTION returns with another uplifting new song, “A Call Beyond.” The track, which comes just six months after the release of their sophomore album BornFrom Fire, proves they are indeed the spearheads of the next generation of power metal.
“A Call Beyond” takes listeners on an epic and melodic journey through what it means to be human, to resist, to rise up, to fall and to succeed. Bathed in the rich orchestration of the independent French composer Peter Crowley and awakened by lead singer Craig Cairns‘ soaring vocals, this mid-tempo song will surely leave a feeling of awe.
Guitarist Tim Kanoa Hansen comments, “In a way, this song is the thematic followup to our fan favorite title, ‘Scorched.’ Chaos breaks loose on earth, up is down, right is wrong, light is dark. Ethereal voices call you to follow and fight as well as lead into a new, better world. It’s a call to stand up and to realize the potential paradise we live in, to embrace progress and to resist the tyrants that are in control of the masses.”
Watch INDUCTION’s visualizer for “A Call Beyond” at THIS LOCATION. Stream/purchase the track HERE.
Subscribe Atomic Fire Records on YouTube and listen to “A Call Beyond” as well as other new tracks in the AFR New Releases playlist on Spotify HERE.
View the band’s previously released videos for “Queen Of Light” HERE, “Sacrifice” HERE, “Go To Hell” HERE, and “Embers” HERE.
Born From Fire, which boasts twelve metal anthems in fifty-eight minutes, was mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen and is graced by the cover artwork of Peter Sallai (Sabaton, Jinjer, Powerwolf).
INDUCTION will serve as openers on the NordicPower Metal Titans Tour 2023 which features Finnish power metal heavyweights Sonata Arctica and Stratovarius.
Hansen adds, “Our latest album, Born From Fire, was received very positively during its release tour at the end of last year, but this was just the beginning. We can’t wait to present it to many more power metal hungry fans around Europe in Autumn. Warming up the crowds for such influential giants of the scene will make it an even more special experience for sure. INDUCTION is already starting their high-power engines – and you better do the same. Get your tickets and we’ll see you on the road!”
The group will close the year with a blast by supporting legendary act Accept in Germany.
The band further comments, “We are joining forces with Accept this year in December for two dates. It will be special for us playing in Tim Hansen’s hometown Hamburg and in [bassist] Dominik Gusch’s hometown Cologne!”
INDUCTION Live: 8/05/2023 Hello-Feast @ Štadión Lokomotíva – Košice, SK 9/09/2023 Port Of Power Festival @ Juki 42 – Ahrensburg, DE w/ Sonata Arctica, Stratovarius: 10/14/2023 Northern Rockfest @ Energi Arena – Umeå, SE 10/15/2023 Cozmoz Arena – Borlänge, SE 10/16/2023 Vulkan Arena – Oslo, NO 10/17/2023 Trädgår’n – Gothenburg, SE 10/19/2023 Slaktkyrkan – Stockholm, SE 10/20/2023 Gimle – Roskilde, DK 10/21/2023 Kulturpalast – Hamburg, DE 10/22/2023 Hellraiser – Leipzig, DE 10/24/2023 TivoliVredenburg (Ronda) – Utrecht, NL 10/25/2023 Garage – Saarbrücken, DE 10/27/2023 Konzertfabrik Z7 – Pratteln, CH 10/28/2023 Alcatraz – Milan, IT 10/30/2023 Backstage – Munich, DE 10/31/2023 Szene – Vienna, AT 11/01/2023 Barba Negra – Budapest, HU 11/03/2023 Fuzz Club – Athens, GR 11/04/2023 Principal Club Theater – Thessaloniki, GR 11/06/2023 FORM Space – Cluj-Napoca, RO 11/07/2023 Quantic – Bucharest, RO 11/10/2023 Colos-Saal – Aschaffenburg, DE 11/12/2023 Matrix – Bochum, DE w/ Accept, Songs Of White Lion: 12/12/2023 Große Freiheit 36 – Hamburg, DE 12/13/2023 Carlswerk Victoria – Cologne, DE
Following their much acclaimed, self-titled 2017-debut, June 30, 2023 sees Australian heavy metal force NIGHT LEGION release their sophomore studio album, entitled “Fight Or Fall” via Massacre Records!
As first album single, “The Hounds Of Baskerville”, immediatly proves, “Fight Or Fall” is a no-nonsense return to fast and powerful heavy metal with screaming vocals, crushing guitars and hooks that remind you what great songwriting sounds like. This record is not a happy walk through a forest of elves – this is the battlefield where metal lives and soaring vocals invoke the spirits of what made metal the force it is today!
Give ear, a music video for NIGHT LEGION‘s new single is now streaming HERE!
“A classic horror inspired track slightly based around the Sherlock Holmes’ “The Hound of the Baskervilles”, however with a much more dark and brutal twist and in our own way,“ the band reveals. “It centralizes to a small town being terrorized by the local werewolves, with descriptive references.
Some people believe it, some people don’t and think it’s a legend we have devised ourselves until they themselves face the terror & wrath. The wolves in this case also represent the 5 of us – we are about to unleash a new record and we have the hunger to unleash on the live circuit!
It’s also inspired by how humanity’s own state of madness can conjure up such evil for the reason to terrorize, deceive and always live in fear. The reference to the chorus “Chase the hounds of Baskerville” really comes from how we as humans are intrigued to learn more about the mysteries of the world and anything that scares us. It’s a pretty bold, in your face, massive memorable chorus – it’s the run to the hills of the album, I’d say, hence being the first single.
It’s a heart stopper vocally & Stu’s guitar work adds another dimension – this song will play a movie in the listeners head.”
“Fight Or Fall” was produced by NIGHT LEGION guitarist Stu Marshall, and was mixed and mastered by Chris Themelco at Monolith Studios. Set to be released on June 30, 2023, the album pre-sale has just started via Massacre Records at THIS LOCATION!
“Fight Or Fall” track listing:
The Hounds Of Baskerville
Babylon Burns
Soaring Into The Black
Fight Or Fall
At World’s End
Beyond The Crimson Dawn
Harvest Of Sin
The Enemy
The Hand Of Death
NIGHT LEGION: Louie Gorgievski – Vocals Stu Marshall – Guitars Col Higginson – Guitars Glenn Williams – Bass Clay Tchakalian – Drums
Earthshine is the second single to be released from the upcoming new album Between The Day & I of modern post-metal outfit ATLASES, which will be released on June 2nd via Lifeforce Records.
“Take the walk through a mysterious and ethereal path through the occasional fragile sides of one’s burden – which lie amidst the inner mixture within, consisting of clarity and chaos
The fact that ATLASES from Finland sound different has its reasons. Besides the “normal instrumentation” of a metal band, the musicians from Pori also work with electronic drum pads and keyboards. Both are not just additional accessories, but an integral part of the musical self-image of this Nordic group. In addition, there is the creative demand to go further aesthetically and sonically than is usual in modern post-metal. In the cinematic soundscapes ATLASES are creating you can lose yourself completely.
The third album “Between The Day & I” pushes this approach to the extreme. The dualism of beautiful, atmospheric euphony and abrupt brute force works fantastically and provides lasting impressions. The sextet from Pori sets tension arcs time and again, which lead deeper and deeper into a maelstrom of rapture, melancholy and emotional discharge. On the follow-up to their 2020 LIFEFORCE RECORDS debut, “Woe Portrait”, ATLASES present themselves as resourceful songwriters who cultivate powerful contrasts beyond the usual conventions of post-metal and thus stand out.
With “Between The Day & I”, the Finns prove that modern post-metal can still be developed further, if the right attitude and the necessary daring meet forward-thinking creativity and an elevated level of ambition.
The fact that the cover motif of the new ATLASES album evokes associations in the direction of the MASTODON classic “Remission” or “White Pony” of the mighty DEFTONES is a coincidence, but on closer reflection it fits pretty well.
Eyelids of the New Dawn 4:35 Singulars 3:30 Silent Threads 4:11 Earthshine 4:51 Mosaic of Silence 4:14 Save Room 5:40 Intermission 1:59 Versus 2:41 Imperial Dark 3:33 Ties to Distance 7:11
Tampere, Finland -based thrash metal act OSIRISREX – led by US thrasher Superstar Joey Severance have unleashed the second single ‘The Meek Shall Inherit’ taken from their forthcoming debut EP “Arrival of the New Dawn”!
Also check out the first single ‘Lone Wolf Terror’, feat. on solo: Michael “Big Maaaan” Rutten, at https://youtu.be/IL-BAxGFLl0
“Arrival of the New Dawn” recording lineup: Superstar Joey Severance – Vocals Ben Varon – All Guitars (except where noted) and Bass (Session Musician) Oskari Niemi – Drums (Session Musician)
Music and Lyrics: Superstar Joey Severance Produced, Mixed and Engineered by: Ben Varon Mastered by: Ben Varon and Oskari Niemi
Tracklisting:
The Meek Shall Inherit
Arrival of the New Dawn
Lone Wolf Terror (Solo: Michael “Big Maaaan” Rutten)
Hot Stuff (Donna Summer Cover)
More on OSIRIS REX:
Rising from the ashes of TORNADO comes OSIRIS REX. With Tornado, vocalist Superstar Joey Severance recorded three albums (Amsterdamn, Hellsinki – Black President – Commitment to Excellence) with the debut being produced by Peter Tagtgren and their last album featuring such metal heavyweights as Karl Sanders (Nile) Glen Drover (ex-Megadeth) and Ross Dolan (Immolation). All three albums received positive reviews worldwide and the band did a European tour supporting Six Feet Under.
Soon after the tour ended, and right before the start of the pandemic, SJS decided to disband Tornado for personal reasons and move forward with a new lineup which will become Osiris Rex.
The four-song debut EP, “Arrival of the New Dawn” showcases the musical direction the band is taking which is not too far removed from Tornado. Stay tuned!
With a focus on writing great, catchy songs, Osiris Rex are looking to advance the thrash genre for a new generation!
Wilmington (NC) – U.S Heavy Metal quartet CHILDREN OF THE REPTILE have released Silent Circle, the third and final single before release of forthcoming album, Heavy is the Head. Check it out at the following links:
Though they are proudly part of what’s now called the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal, CHILDREN OF THE REPTILE aren’t simply aping styles from the 70s and 80s. Taking a page out of the book of Manilla Road and calling themselves “American Epic Heavy Metal,” these four travellers have been crushing the Southeast United States for over a decade now.
If you want the riffs of Metallica, the twin leads of Thin Lizzy or Iron Maiden, the attitude of Judas Priest, the progressive leanings of Mastodon, and the vibes of Manilla Road, then you must check out the best kept secret from the swamps of the Cape Fear: CHILDREN OF THE REPTILE.
Track Listing:
Delvers in Darkness*
Warriors of Light
Burner
Silent Circle
Fear The Old Blood
Seven Days of Fire
Last Words (Ruin’s Ride)
Adventurers
Oath to Order
Credits:
Written, produced, and performed by Hermit. It was recorded in Lost Woods Studio, Parts Unknown.
Additional Gang Vocals and Keyboard Programming: Stephen Cline
Produced by Stephen Cline TMF Studios, Raleigh, NC Mastered by Jamie King Basement Studios, Winston Salem, NC
Visual Layout and Art: Ozzie Darden Logo Design: Cayla Rickard All Lyrics by Ozzie Darden
Line-Up:
Ozzie Darden: Lead vocals, guitar Chris Millard: Guitar, backing vocals David “Pils” Hufham: Bass, backing vocals Chase Kelly: Drums, backing vocals
Valo is the third and final pre-album single from the forthcoming new VORNA album Aamunkoi, and now available on all digital platforms.
“When Arttu (Järvisalo, Lead Guitar) brought the first instrumental demo of this song to the table, and I started to work on the lyrics and vocal arrangements, my initial thoughts were that this sounds like a love song. And that’s not really my expertise. The end result is something that fits into the aforementioned category as well, but it can also be interpreted from a more universal perspective. We may not have the power to take anyone’s pain away or save them, but what we can do, is to try and make each other’s journeys more bearable. That’s what “Valo” (The Light) is all about.”
The music of VORNA, from Tampere, is as melancholic as sublimely gloomy. No wonder that the group has already toured or played shows with Insomnium, Wintersun, Kalmah, Thyrfing and Whispered. The sextet from Finland, active since 2008, enters with a majestic metal sound that also features symphonic and folk accents.
The band’s fourth album stands out for its self-evident, breathing musicality. The lyrics are presented again in the Finnish native language of the musicians and support the mythical character of the tracks. The album title could hardly be more aptly chosen. “Aamunkoi” can be translated as “Aurora”. In literature, this means “The Dawn”. In the far north, where VORNA come from, this is also the name for the phenomenon of the polar lights. In both interpretations darkness and grace play a role. Astonishment and fear are also to be associated. Not everything can be grasped and cleary understood. Much remains in the indefinite and in the intermediate tones. This closes the circle to the melancholic metal of the six Finns and their nature-loving understanding of art.
In comparison with the debut “Ajastaika” (2013), the second album from 2015, “Ei valo minua seuraa”, and the debut on LIFEFORCE RECORDS, “Sateet palata saavat” (2019), VORNA surpass themselves on “Aamunkoi”. All songs sound immensely multifaceted, accentuated and above all atmospheric.
The gloomy emotionality and fine melody lines of the band’s fourth album pull in their spell. The contrasting play between forward attacks and fragile atmosphere, which reaches deep, has lasting effects and impresses.
“Life is finite, unpredictable, and unfair. The album’s main theme is survival in the uncertain world where the lucky ones who get to witness a new day have a chance to strive for a better future – when they still can. Music-wise Aamunkoi is Vorna’s most melodic work to date and we have once again broadened our musical horizon towards new territories on every instrument. “
VORNA live:
06.05.23 FI – Tampere @ Yo-talo 12.05.23 FI – Helsinki @ Kuudes Linja 20./22.07.23 FI – Laukaa @ John Smith Rock Festival 04./05.08.23 FI – Tampere @ SaariHelvetti 10./12.08.23 FI – Kotka @ Dark River Festival
Clear the manège, let the ultimate LORDI show begin! Screem Writers Guild, the new beast of an album by the beloved Finnish hard rock monster squad, is out TODAY on Atomic Fire Records!
In celebration of the release, the group has launched a cinematic music video for the record’s opening track “Dead Again Jayne,” once again scripted, directed, and edited by Mr. Lordi himself. Dealing with a patched-up lady who suddenly isn’t that dead anymore, the song is dominated by a morbid, Frankenstein-ish atmosphere.
Watch LORDI’s “Dead Again Jayne” video at THIS LOCATION.
View LORDI’s previously released video for “Lucyfer Prime Evil” HERE and “Thing In The Cage” HERE.
Screem Writers Guild was produced by Mr. Lordi with Mana and Janne Halmkrona as executive producers. Ilkka Herkman took care of mixing and Pauli Saastamoinen mastered the record. The artwork was also designed by Mr. Lordi himself who has made a name as director for the band’s vision since the early ’90s. The record’s title — a “LORDIfied” play on words — is a reference to the “Screen Writers Guild,” an association of Hollywood screenplay writers (1920s to 1950s), yet there is no doubt that LORDI‘s musical version is much louder and fiercer. “The record itself isn’t a real concept album, but it obviously plays with the overall cinematic theme,” says Mr. Lordi.
Screem Writers Guild is available in the following formats:
Limited Collector’s Box Set – Includes alternative cover artwork, CD-digipak, 2xLP in gatefold, exclusive Live At Masters Of Rock DVD featuring five live songs, five band member portrait art prints plus LORDI notebook.
The box set will be available in three color variants: – Red/Black Splatter vinyl @ Atomic Fire Records Mailorder – Green Marbled vinyl @ EMP – Purple/Black Marbled vinyl @ Atomic Fire Records US Mailorder, Nuclear Blast, and Levykauppa Äx
Other configurations: – CD-digipak – 2xLP gatefold (Transparent/Blue Marbled) – 2xLP gatefold (Red/Black Splatter; only available in Europe) – 2xLP gatefold (Green Marbled; only available @ EMP) – 2xLP gatefold (Purple/Black Marbled; only available @ Atomic Fire Records US Mailorder, Nuclear Blast, and Levykauppa Äx) – digital
Order Screem Writers Guild in the physical format of your choice, stream it, or get it digitally now at THIS LOCATION.
Tonight, LORDI will kick off another touring cycle at Aria Complex (San Gwann, MT) where they’ll premiere their new musical play on stage for the first time. The performance serves as a warm-up for Mr. Lordi and his crew as it will be followed by a massive European arena tour alongside Sabaton and Babymetal in April/May as well as select summer festival gigs and a few Austrian shows in the Fall. See all confirmed dates below.
LORDI: 3/31/2023 Rock ‘N Malta @ Aria Complex – San Gwann, MT w/ Sabaton, Babymetal: 4/14/2023 First Direct Arena – Leeds, UK 4/15/2023 OVO Arena Wembley – London, UK 4/16/2023 Motorpoint Arena – Cardiff, UK 4/18/2023 OVO Hydro – Glasgow, UK 4/21/2023 Zénith (La Villette) – Paris, FR Sold Out 4/22/2023 Festhalle – Frankfurt, DE 4/24/2023 Barclays Arena – Hamburg, DR 4/25/2023 Rockhal – Esch-sur-Alzette, LU 4/28/2023 Avicii Arena – Stockholm, SE 4/29/2023 Spektrum – Oslo, NO Sold Out 4/30/2023 Royal Arena – Copenhagen, DK 5/01/2023 3-Majówka – Wroclaw,PL *LORDI only 5/02/2023 ZAG Arena – Hanover, DE 5/03/2023 Ziggo Dome – Amsterdam, NL 5/05/2023 Mercedes-Benz Arena – Berlin, DE 5/06/2023 Quarterback Immobilien Arena – Leipzig, DE 5/07/2023 Stadthalle – Vienna, AT 5/09/2023 Atlas Arena – Łódź, PL 5/10/2023 Ostravar Aréna – Ostrava, CZ 5/12/2023 Lanxess Arena – Cologne, DE 5/13/2023 Sportpaleis – Antwerp, BE 5/15/2023 Olympiahalle – Munich, DE 5/18/2023 Saku Suurhall – Tallinn, EE 5/19/2023 Helsingin Jäähalli – Helsinki, FI 5/20/2023 Kuopio-halli – Kuopio, FI End Tour 6/08/2023 Rockfest – Hyvinkää, FI 6/16/2023 Tuhdimmat Tahdit – Tampere, FI *New* 6/25/2023 Rock Imperium Festival – Cartagena, ES 7/29/2023 Rock Of Ages – Rottenburg-Seebronn, DE New 10/14/2023 Wildstyle & Tattoo @ Stadthalle – Kapfenberg, AT 10/21/2023 Wildstyle & Tattoo @ Tabakfabrik – Linz, AT 10/28/2023 Wildstyle & Tattoo @ Messezentrum
Founded in 1992 by singer, songwriter, and designer Mr. Lordi, LORDI are one of the major Finnish rock/heavy metal acts of our time. Originally rooted in Rovaniemi (Northern Lapland, Finland), the band achieved their international breakthrough after winning the Eurovision Song Contest with their hit song “Hard Rock Hallelujah” in 2006.
Since then, the unconventional troop has rocked their way into the spotlight of Europe with charm, unforgettable tunes, and elaborate monster costumes, and have become an integral part of the lineups of globally recognized festivals such as Wacken Open Air (DE) and Masters of Rock (CZ) among others.
LORDI: Mr. Lordi – vocals Kone – guitars Hiisi – bass Hella – keyboard Mana – drums
L-R: Tommy Wolffe (Bass. Vocals), Bobby Deuce (Guitar), Angus Pike (Drums) Photo Credit: Megan Kay
A blend of hard rock, punk, and metal, Deadwolff set themselves apart from other bands with their take on the New Wave of Heavy Rock and Roll. Recommended for fans of Judas Priest, Motorhead, and W.A.S.P., Deadwolff is a revival of foot-tapping, beer-drinking, headbanging tunes, and more. They are touring across the United States and Canada this May and June in support of their forthcoming debut full-length “Heavy Rock N’ Roll” due out on March 31st via Golden Robot Records.
May 8 – Outer Limits Lounge – Hamtramck, MI 9 – Liars Club – Chicago, IL 11 – Whittier – Tulsa, OK 12 – Double Wide – Dallas, TX 13 – Black Magic Social Club – Houston, TX 14 – Valhalla Tavern – Austin. TX 15 – Faust Tavern – San Antonio, TX 17 – The Edge – Tuscon, AZ 18 – The Blooze Bar – Pheonix, AZ 19 – Tower Bar – San Diego, CA 20 – Red Dwarf – Las Vegas, NV 23 – Destructive Warehouse – Fresno, CA 24 – The Knockout – San Francisco, CA 25 – On the y- Sacramento, CA 26 – Shea’s Tavern – Reno, NV 27 – Knucklehead – Los Angeles, CA 30 – High Water Mark – Portland, OR 31 – The Cherry Pit – Seattle, WA
June 1 – Sunny Chibas – Squamish, BC 2 – The Cambie – Vancouver, BC 3 – Kami Inn – Kamloops, BC 4 – Canmore Hotel – Canmore, AB 6 – The Palamind – Calgary, AB 7 – Starlite Room – Edmonton, AB 9 – Bulldog – Winnipeg, MB 10 – Atmos – Thunder Bay, ON
Promo pic by Sami Hinkkanen. (From left to right: Rasmus Raassina, Harri Annala, Marko Loukamaa, Miika Erkkilä, Ari Lempinen, Esa Lempinen
Finnish progressive metal band Sum of Seven released a new single and music video ”The Monster…The King’. The track is released in collaboration with Inverse Records.
Ari Lempinen comments: “In the song The Monster…The King we wanted to give more room to the instruments to tell the story supporting the vocals. The song flows with tasty solos and tight riffs in synergy with Marko’s vocals and dances between succulent blasting and a relaxing respite. The music reflects the atmosphere of the lyrics, which dive deep into a dreamlike space where the monsters and kings within us are in juxtaposition. The music video features the skilled breakdancer Jose Granados aka Bboy Kalaco who interprets the mood and the message of the song with his skillful moves.“
Single cover by Ari Lempinen
The Monster…The King (single 2023)
Composed by Ari Lempinen Lyrics by Ari Lempinen, Esa Lempinen & Marko Loukamaa
Line-up: Ari Lempinen: Guitar, backing vocals Esa Lempinen: Keyborads Rasmus Raassina: Drums Harri Annala: Guitar Miika Erkkilä: Bass Marko Loukamaa: Vocals
When it comes to defending the core values of timeless power metal and combining them with fresh stylistic variations and exciting stories, Swedish power metallers Bloodbound have always been fighting at the forefront. With nine studio albums in 16 years under their belt, the six-piece has proven their versatility and inventiveness countless times. Following the much acclaimed, latest record Creatures Of TheDark Realm (2021, AFM Records), Bloodbound have announced the release of their upcoming masterpiece, entitled Tales From The North!
“‘Tales From The North’ is very much a concept album about the viking era. About the lives of our ancestors up here in the dark, cold and unfriendly environments of the north,” explains lead guitarist Tomas Olsson and summarizes the content of their eleven songs: “Different legends and myths intertwine during the course of the songs, leading up to the epic battle of 1066, which marks the end of the viking era.” Those who already know the sound of Bloodbound can imagine the metallic force the band employs to evoke this story. Tales From The Northwill be released on July 7, 2023 via AFM/Soulfood as a 2-CD digipak including a live CD. As a special treat, it will also be released as a strictly limited box set as well as coloured vinyl LPs.
Give ear, as today, the band shared a lyric video for their first album single “Odin’s Prayer”! “Odin’s Prayer is a real banger of a song”, Fredrik Bergh comments. “It represents the new album well and I think it’s a great first taste of the new record. On Tales From The North we have gone back to the roots of bloodbound a bit and I think the bloodheads will like what they hear!“
Watch the Official Lyric Video for Odin’s Prayer HERE
Bloodbound have not only improved in terms of content, but also musically. Says Olsson: “The songs are more fast-paced and closer to some of our earlier stuff like ’Moria’ and ’Nosferatu’, but have more complex arrangements. Compared to the predecessor ‘Creatures Of The Dark Realm’ there are heavier guitars and some deeper sounding keyboards. We have also incorporated some traditional nordic folk music instruments to fit the concept of the album. It’s still pure power metal but we’re trying to take it to the next level.”
Tales From The North was produced by Bloodbound, and was mixed and mastered by Jonas Kjellgren (Amorphis, Overkill, Sabaton) at the Swedish ‘Black Lounge Studios’. The cover artwork was done by Péter Sallai (Hammerfall, Powerwolf & many more).
Tales From The North track listing: 01. Tales From The North 02. Drink With The Gods 03. Odin´s Prayer 04. The Raven´s Cry 05. Mimir`s Crystal Eye 06. Between The Enemy Lines 07. Land Of Heroes 08. Sail Among The Dead 09. Stake My Claims 10.Sword And Axe 11. 1066
BLOODBOUND: Tomas Olsson – lead guitar Fredrik Bergh – keyboards Patrik Selleby – vocals Henrik Olsson – rhythm guitar Anders Broman – bass Daniel Hansfeldt – drums
In support of their upcoming album, Bloodbound has announced an extensive headliner tour and to appear at several festivals such as Karmoygeddon, RockHarz, Masters of Rock, among others. Make sure to catch them live at the following dates this year:
04.02.2023 (SWE) MORA Lilla Helfvetet 28.02.2023 (GER) BERLIN Hole 44* 01.03.2023 (GER) MUNICH Backstage Halle* 02.03.2023 (CH) PRATTELN Z7* 03.03.2023 (FR) COLMAR Le Grillen* 04.03.2023 (BE) VORSELAAR De Dreef* 05.03.2023 (GER) NUREMBERG Hirsch* 06.03.2023 (GER) MANNHEIM 7er Club* 07.03.2023 (GER) ASCHAFFENBURG Colos-Saal* 08.03.2023 (GER) HAMBURG Bahnhof Pauli* 09.03.2023 GER SIEGBURG Kubana* 10.03.2023 (GER) ESSEN Turock* 11.03.2023 (NL) ENSCHEDE Metropool* 12.03.2023 (GER) KASSEL Goldgrube* 04.05.2023 (NOR) KOPERVIK Karmoygeddon Festival 08.07.2023 (GER) BALLENSTEDT RockHarz Festival 16.07.2023 (CZE) VIZOVICE Masters of Rock Festival
Vancouver (BC) – Dissonant Death Metal duo CROWN OF MADNESS are set to release their sophomore EP, Elemental Binding, on February 23, 2023.
The EP’s first single and opening track, “Immortal Eyes” (featuring a guest guitar solo from Matthew Pancoust of Truent) is available now at the following links:
With their second EP, CROWN OF MADNESS brings you a penetrating mix of the technical and the dissonant, as well as devastating lyrical themes that will leave you sorrowful. Elemental Binding is the second and final EP on the road to the duo’s full-length debut album. The EP serves as a representative sample of the direction CROWN OF MADNESS will take on their future full-length release. Their debut EP The Void released on March 25, 2022.
York (PA) – Vintage proto-metal purveyors SPELLBOOK have released a lyric video for “Goddess,” a track from new album DeadlyCharms. You can check out the video at youtu.be/gZEUeAmb4_s or below:
Deadly Charms is available on CD, digital, and vinyl formats via Cruz Del Sur Music. See the links below for streaming and purchase options.
The follow-up to 2020’s Magick & Mischief was recorded in February at Developing Nations in Baltimore, Maryland, with producer/engineer Kevin Bernsten. The album also marks the SPELLBOOK recording debut of their two new guitarists, Les Yarde and Patrick “Patty” Benton.
“The material has new life injected into it while still maintaining the adventurous ’70s hard rock sound we strive for,” says drummer Nick Zinn. “It certainly helped Les and Patty love Magick & Mischief and its no-rules approach. Yet, at the same time, Deadly Charms does seem a bit more focused. We love how the overall vibe has a more anthemic feel.”
Line-Up:
Nate Tyson – Vocals Les Yarde – Guitar Patrick “Patty” Benton – Guitar Seibert Lowe Jr. – Bass Nick Zinn – Drums
According to Zinn, the lyrical themes on DeadlyCharms lean much heavier on horror and reality than the fantasy and fiction approach found in Magick & Mischief. The David Thiérrée (BEHEMOTH, MORTIIS, IHSAHN)-created artwork capably showcases these topics.
“The cover depicts an open spell book spewing forth witches, devils and other ghastly things,” notes Zinn. “These are all subject matters within Deadly Charms songs. We’ve been fortunate to work with so many great artists over the years on different albums dating back to our WITCH HAZEL days and enjoy the excitement of a new artist on each project we do.”
Magick & Mischief was released in the thick of the global pandemic. While it put a premature end to the band’s touring plans, it immediately cultivated a feverish critical following.
‘I Hate’ the controversial rock and roll video by RABID ASSASSIN was released today March 18, 2015 as a worldwide premiere on BlankTV.com.
The song ‘I Hate’ is the first single released from the band’s debut ‘Eliminate The System’ due out May 19th on HighVolMusic.
As strong advocates of the United States Constitution, RABID ASSASSIN exercised the 1st amendment of “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.” when creating ‘Eliminate the System’.
The project takes on the challenging issues that plague the world today with songs that are straight forward and hit on topics everybody can relate to but which most are scared to talk about. It runs the gamut of everything that is messed up in the world today.
Carnalation is returning after a long and creative break and have inked a deal with Finnish label Inverse Records. The band have been rehearsing and finishing their new songs and the quintet is heading to the studio mid-March. A new five songs EP, named “Ghosts” and will be released June 12th 2015. Carnalation can be seen next time live on the stage at Midsummer festival Nummirock.
A short statement from the vocalist Jonne Soidinaho: “On the last record we were hitting with direct punches, now it’s time to add destructive hooks to the ribs!”
Red Fang have a new music video for The Meadows from their recently released EP, Scion A/V Presents Red Fang (http://www.scionav.com/2014/05/06/red-fang-meadows-shadows-download/). The glutinous clip finds the hairy and hilarious metal band putting on their fancy clothes and putting away a herculean amount of food in a super slow motion.
Red Fang released Whales and Leeches in October 2014, with the eleven-song album quickly becoming the band’s best-selling and most critically acclaimed release to date. Alternative Press described the album as “bigger, bolder, heavier, catchier and even more savagely fun,” Stereogum said the release “takes flight and soars,” while Magnet Magazine said Whales and Leeches “is a monumental success – a clear line from Red Fang’s earliest recordings to it latest.”
Star Insight is a Finnish Melodic/Symphonic Metal band which was founded in Seinäjoki back in 2005, but is now located in Lapua. After four self-released records the band inked a deal with Finnish record label Inverse Records. Their debut album “Messera” will be released worldwide in August 1st 2014.
In their music they mixed a lot of different elements. In addition to symphonic parts, you can also hear industrial sounds, punk riffs, ambient and also some power metallic drum pedaling. Vocals are traditional roaring which are filled in with clean vocals. The lyrics are primarily fictional and the theme is everything between heaven and earth.
The songs for the album are carefully selected from broadest possible musical scale. This close half-hour package contains a lot of different songs and moods.
A brand new music video “Emanuela” can be enjoyed below:
The misadventures of New Jersey thrash n’ rollers HAMMER FIGHT continue with the release of the official music video for Ginger Rails. The song comes off the band’s newest release, Chug of War and features cinematic direction by DCintheCity Productions.
The video is now playing below:
HAMMER FIGHT is on the last leg of the three-week long “Chug of Tour Vol. 3” in support of Chug of War. Remaining dates are as follows:
6/6 – Quincy, MA @ South Shore Music Hall w/ Sexcrement
6/7 – Atlantic City, NJ @ The Boneyard w/ Sexcrement
Chug Of War is out now on Horror Pain Gore Death Productions. A cross between Slayer, Motorhead, and beer, HAMMER FIGHT return to Horror Pain Gore Death Productions, who released the band’s 2011 untitled EP, for Chug Of War. Combining ripping guitars, bass leads and gritty dirty vocals, HAMMER FIGHT stand out from the rest with a unique sound. Chug Of War is a rockin’ album of drunken madness for fans of Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Anthrax, Slayer, Blood Duster, Blood For Blood, Carnivore, Thin Lizzy, Gang Green and Venom.
Spawned from a New Jersey scene saturated with death metal and hardcore, HAMMER FIGHT brings a sound that many kids these days may have missed; Hard Rockin’ Metal. Versatile enough to share the stage with the most extreme death metal acts to classic hard rock bands and everything in between. HAMMER FIGHT is here to kick some ass! Keep your eyes and ears open, they’ll be in your town soon.
Critical Praise:
“To get it so right is pretty scary.” [9/10] –Decibel Magazine
“This four piece of tattooed Jersey shore hooligans play a real aggro punk metal influenced highly by MOTORHEAD.” – Scumfeast Metal 666
“Only pussies don’t like this band.” – Some Really Smart Dude
SOULFLY – Brazilian Extreme Metal overlords SOULFLY (led by iconic frontman MaxCavalera) have released another brand new single off the band’s upcoming groove bomb Savages.
Savages is set for release on October 4, 2013 via Nuclear Blast Entertainment. The artwork was created by renowned artist Paul Stottler, who is best known for SACRED REICH’s legendary Surf Nicaragua cover.
Produced, engineered and mixed by renowned sound guru Terry Date (PANTERA, DEFTONES, WHITE ZOMBIE), Savages will be released as a limited edition digpack CD, 2LP vinyl and digital download.
Guest vocal appearances on Savages include bass player Tony Campos, Max Cavalera’s son Igor Cavalera (LODY KONG), CLUTCH’s Neil Fallon, NAPALM DEATH’s Mitch Harris and Jamie Hanks of I DECLARE WAR fame.
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
Metal Odyssey's Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Hall of Fame! These Are The Rock And METAL Legends Wrongfully Ignored By "The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame"
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