Promo picture by Heidi Tuulia | Photography @portraitsbyheidituulia
Finnish stoner/punk rock band Alkemia released their debut Alkemia EP via Inverse Records.
Alkemia’s debut EP recordings began in 2023 with drums, bass, and rhythm guitars tracked at the professional studio of Ammattiopisto Live in Espoo. The remaining guitar overdubs, solos, and vocals were recorded at the band’s rehearsal space in Helsinki.
The goal was to capture a live, groovy sound in the songs. Initial mixing difficulties were resolved by switching mixers, with the final mix completed by Ville Siikamäki. The EP aimed for a sound blending Eyehategod and Bad Brains, keeping the overall vibe raw and rock-driven without overly polished details.
The EP’s creation took time, as all good alcoholic, er, alchemical processes do. There was no rush, and the band worked around other commitments, as they noted in their press release.
Alkemia – Alkemia EP (EP 2025) Cover by Zehra Fulya Köksoy
Track list:
Unida
1+1
Höyrypää
Piru Merrassa
Kääntöpuoli
The band has no concrete plans for the future. Only to keep playing and writing new songs. Some gigs are also lined up for the fall, including the EP release show at Playhouse Bar in Helsinki on November 1st 2025.
Promo picture by Heidi Tuulia | Photography @portraitsbyheidituulia
Indoor Enthusiast, the outstanding third record from TUESDAY THE SKY, the instrumental-driven project from guitarist Jim Matheos, arrives this Friday, October 24th via Metal Blade Records!
TUESDAY THE SKY has been described as a “beautifully weird solo project” by Sonic Perspectives, while Dead Rhetoric dubbed it a “kaleidoscope of atmospheric songs.” With eleven songs of pure Matheos-patented playing and passion, this year’s Indoor Enthusiast features Dutch drummer Dennis Leeflang on “The Nearest Exit May Be Behind You,” “Bend Toward Light,” and “Set Fire To The Stars.”
Matheos, famed for his work with progressive metal giants Fates Warning, alongside projects such as OSI and his collaboration with John Arch, Arch/Matheos, planted the seeds of TUESDAY THE SKY around 2016. The impetus came from a Fates Warning bonus track that Matheos felt didn’t fit for the band. He kept writing in that vein, and the result was TUESDAY THE SKY. The initial offering was 2017’s Drift, a record that drew influence from the likes of Brian Eno, Sigur Ros, Boards Of Canada, and Explosions In The Sky.
The second TUESDAY THE SKY album was 2021’s The Blurred Horizon, a mixture of ambient, electronica, post-rock, and more. The Blurred Horizon is perhaps best described as a beautiful record, having a natural grace to it. The closing track “Everything Is Free” is a cover of a Gillian Welch and David Rawlings song, and the only song with vocals, supplied by Tim Bowness.
Indoor Enthusiast is entirely instrumental, produced and mixed by Matheos, and mastered by Jacob Hansen.
Watch a visualizer for the track “The Nearest Exit May Be Behind You” HERE.
TUESDAY THE SKY’s Indoor Enthusiast will be available on CD and digital formats at: metalblade.comtuesdaythesky.
The neoclassical melodic death force BURNED IN EFFIGY has released the official music video for “The Racking,” the third single off their forthcoming new album, Tyrannus Aeternum.
The world premiere for the official music video for “The Racking” comes via The Circle Pit. Watch the video now at this location.
Rising from the heart of the Midwest metal scene, this Chicago-based quintet has announced a fall release for their much-anticipated second full-length, Tyrannus Aeternum. Following the 2022 release of their debut album, Rex Mortem, BURNED IN EFFIGY has sharpened their sound to a lethal edge. The result is an 11-track onslaught that blends the band’s skillful musicianship and technicality with volcanic brutality.
Tracklist:
1) Befouled Benefaction
2) Retribution
3) Masquerade
4) Procession
5) Wage of Exile
6) Sacrificial Seance
7) Monstrosity Reborn
8) Gallows Hymn
9) The Racking
10) Crown Crusher
11) Citadel
Line-up:
Mark “Smedy” Smedbron – Vocals Steve Bacakos – Guitar Mike Hisson – Guitar Matt Watkins – Bass Eddie Dec – Drums
Tyrannus Aeternum was recorded at Beal Audio and Bricktop Recording, with production, engineering and mixing by Jordan Beal. Orchestration and keyboards on the album were provided by Graham Southern. Album artwork by Timon Kokott.
Alternative rock collective KING ULTRAMEGA, featuring members of ALICE IN CHAINS, ANTHRAX, MASTODON, and SOUNDGARDEN, have returned with a haunting instrumental rendition of the AUDIOSLAVE classic, “Be Yourself“. This new single release once again aims to celebrate Chris Cornell’s musical genius while raising funds and awareness for MusiCares. MusiCares is the Recording Academy’s nonprofit that provides mental health, addiction recovery, and emergency services to those in the music community.
“Be Yourself”features legendary guitarist Joe Satriani on lead guitar, echoing vocalist Chris Cornell’s melodic motifs and building on the song’s phrasings. Though following in Cornell’s footsteps on a different instrument sounds like a tall order, Satriani rose to the challenge, proud to show his love for a fallen hero.
Expertly replicating the essence of the song with crystal-clear lead tones, tasteful vibrato, and subtle pedal effects, Satriani lets his guitar sing with all the passion and tenderness that the song’s lyrics originally conveyed. This loving instrumental homage proves that the message and power behind AUDIOSLAVE’s composition transcends words.
Satriani comments, “[Chris Cornell] was a brilliant vocalist and communicator. He often used his voice like an instrument, shaping the tone of his voice like a guitarist would finesse riffs and phrases. I took a deep dive into his magical sensibilities and came up with a multi-tracked guitar production approach that I felt would pay proper homage to his brilliance.”
The concept for an instrumental rendition of “Be Yourself” originated with the bassist, producer, and mastermind of KING ULTRAMEGA, Mark Menghi. As a producer, he envisioned a version of the song that deftly balanced the art of paying respect to the original, while also reimagining the song with a unique musical voice from Satriani. As a bassist, Menghi strove to keep the bass parts nearly identical to the original song, allowing Satriani the freedom to lend his own voice to the music.
Renowned drummer Kenny Aronoff, who has been named one of the greatest drummers of all time by Rolling Stone magazine, and has toured and recorded with a who’s who of legendary artists such as THE ROLLING STONES, THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, PAUL MCCARTNEY, JOHN FOGERTY and many more, provides the laid-back, but emotionally-resonant groove of “Be Yourself”, laying the foundation with Menghi for Satriani’s melodies to shine.
Menghi comments, “I remember like it was yesterday, I was on a run through some crazy trail, just zoning out and the original song came on through my headphones… as I was running, I remember hearing Chris sing ‘to be yourself is all that you can do’ it was like he was talking to me… then thought to myself ‘I can totally hear this as an instrumental a-la Satch style’… My hope is that whomever is listening to this song hears Chris over Joe’s guitar and understands that we are paying homage to Chris with our take on this tune.”
Aronoff comments, “I listened to ‘Be Yourself’ over and over again, absorbing the lyrics and the feel and vibe of this song, then I recorded my drums. Their recording had an emotional impact on me and that had a big effect on my performance.”
“Taan ti le Xibalba” now available on all streaming/download platforms
Guadalajara-based Ancestral folk metal group CEMICAN – hailed by Revolver as “an ancient Mexican answer to The Hu or Heilung” – are proud to bring you their latest opus, ‘U_k’u’uk’ankil_Mayakaaj.’ Much anticipated, this album comes out Oct. 31st and the pre-order for it is here: http://lnk.to/cemican
Available on digital, as well as jewelcase CD with 20-page booklet and limited-edition colored 2LP gatefold vinyl featuring two variants – the N. American variant on K’Awiil (300 blue orange haze) representing the celestial fire/lightning and abundance or the European variant Itzamna (200 purple) for he who embodies the cosmos – the god of the heavens who taught the Mayan people language. We’ve even added the two singles released mid-cycle (one created for Adult Swim programming) as bonus tracks.
“Cemican’s new album, ’U k ‘u’ uk’ankil Mayakaaj’ (translated as the Mayan Resistance) is based on Mayan ideology, worldview, mysticism, and the universe. It contains various legends and stories of ancestral gods, the duality of life and death, as well as stories based on the band members, transformed with that touch that identifies us,” explainsdrummerTlipoca.
“The concept was taken as a way to revive what our warriors and their Mayan people were, honoring this great Mayan culture and representing the worldview and mysticism of this great ancestral empire.”
“The album contains a dark and aggressive atmosphere, as well as some songs with tranquil melodies. A sound that embodies that language of music with ancestral instruments that Cemican has achieved as its own unique and hallucinatory sound, fused with lyrics that blend Spanish with Yucatan Mayan. This new album is a tribute to our ancestral peoples, their stories and their customs, giving a valuable message of their language and their ancestral glory.”
Today, we also reveal the cover art to ‘U k ‘u’ uk’ankil Mayakaaj’ created and designed by Tlipoca.
“It depicts the great creation of the Mayan universe and the elements of life (water, fire, wind, and earth) by the great supreme Itzamnaaj… raising the great Temple of Kukulkan for the worship of the Mayan people. Among the immensity of the ocean, the first sacred man emerges, creating the inter-dimensional chaos between trails and nebula. In the right hand of the great Itzamnaaj, a black hole is born, representing the great infinite darkness. In his left hand, a whirlwind of fire represents the beginning of light or the dawn of life and the beginning of it. At the top, between an avalanche of meteors and stellar earth, two faces are drawn: that of a woman or mother, who gives life or the birth of humans; and on the other side, the face of death, representing the cycle of earthly man in his passage through this life.”
The album has been preceded by two single/music video releases: the thundering “Taan ti le Xibalba” and “KUKULKÁN WAKAH CHAN” with its corresponding epic music video.
The music of CEMICAN – whose name means “the duality of life and death” in the Aztecan language of Nahuatl (spoken by 2 million people in Central Mexico) – incorporates elements of the legends, mysticism and ideologies of ancient Mexican culture. Compared by Revolver to “Slipknot scoring Mel Gibson’s ‘Apocalypto,’” while praised by Brooklyn Vegan for “combining indigenous instrumentation with Headbanger’s Ball-worthy riffage” the group combine the modern instrumentation of a metal band with traditional pre-Hispanic instruments.
Since releasing their third album, In Ohtli Teoyohtica In Miquiztli, in 2019, and M-Theory Audio debut, CEMICAN have performed alongside some of metal’s top names (Amon Amarth, Korpiklaani, Ensiferum, Eluveitie, etc.) in their native Mexico.
In addition, the six-piece group became a regular fixture of European festivals like France’s Hellfest and the Paris edition of Download Festival, Germany’s Wacken Open Air, Spain’s Resurrection Fest and Leyendas Del Rock, as well multiple festival performances in their homeland – Hell & Heaven Fest, Force Fest, Mexico Metal Fest, Dragon Rojo Fest, Tattoo Fest, Knotfest and countless more; as well as appearances in Central and South America. CEMICAN have received regular airplay on Sirius XM Liquid Metal, and composed an original song, “Yóok ‘ol kaab Maya,” for the Adult Swim network. 2025 will mark more opportunities and breakthroughs are in store for the extremely original, creative and epic act.
Lead single “Down to Hell (Black Cat Bar)” features banjos, distorted guitars, percussion, chains and “lots of alcohol.”
Guests on album to include Okoi Thierry Jones (Bölzer), Perikis Tikof (Opened Paradise) and Ioanna Noir Zacharopoulou (Glitter Grotesque).
The Harvest – a Southern Gothic-inspired record about dead lovers, serial killers and lost souls, will be released on 17 October and is available for pre-order.
The Dark Americana outfit :Skull & dawn: will release their second full-length album, The Harvest, on 17 October 2025, through The Circle Music. The first single, “Down to Hell (Black Cat Bar)“, is now out with a new video.
An introductory track to the album’s sound, “Down to Hell (Black Cat Bar)” tells a story of late-night revelry and a dark descent. The band describes it as an “urban ceremony” filled with banjos, distorted guitars, percussion, chains and “lots of alcohol”, culminating in a fall into a “dark well” that leads straight to hell.
Watch the video for “Down to Hell (Black Cat Bar)”:
:Skull & dawn: are: Manos Six – Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Electric Guitar, Percussion Stamos A. – Electric Bass Chris Abatis – Electric Guitar Alex Tabakakis – Drums + Percussion Vassilis Kemanidis – Violin
The upcoming album The Harvest dives deep into a mysterious world of Southern Gothic horror, featuring songs about dead lovers, serial killers, lone cowboys, and lost souls. The album blends the band’s neofolk past with a true Americana sound and a Southern Gothic atmosphere.
The Circle Music said: “Although at first glance the style of :Skull & dawn: might seem out of step with The Circle’s previous releases, for some inexplicable yet undeniable reason, The Harvest felt destined (from the moment of its creation) to be released by us.
“It’s not just the fact that :Skull & dawn: have shared the stage with several of The Circle’s artists during live performances; it’s the very atmosphere of the album itself. From the very first listen, we all had the same instinctive reaction: The Harvest had to be released by us. There was simply no other way.”
The Harvest will be released in digital and CD formats, with the CD version including two bonus tracks: “Kingdom of the Corn (Live)” and “St. James Infirmary (Live)”. A limited edition black LP (250 copies) and a limited edition gold LP (250 copies) with a printed insert will also be available.
Guests on the album include: Okoi Thierry Jones (Bölzer), Perikis Tikof (Opened Paradise), Ioanna Noir Zacharopoulou(Glitter Grotesque) and Vasso Jism.
Founded in 1999 under a different name as a trio in Athens, Greece, the band started by creating industrial noise music using hammers and electric screwdrivers. From 2002 to 2009, they embraced the heritage of Old Europe and folk instruments under the name Défilé des Âmes. They released the full-length LP Lust & Stone, a split EP, and several DIY EPs. They also collaborated with notable artists like Sieben.
The band reformed in 2009 as :Skull & dawn:, shifting their sound to be influenced by the American South. Their debut album, Zombie Horses (2016), fused their industrial roots with American folklore, creating a sound inspired by artists like The Bad Seeds and Hank 3. They have maintained a strong live presence over the years, performing with a wide range of artists, including Jarboe, Chelsea Wolfe and Psychic TV.
The Harvest – track-listing: 1. Down to hell (Black Cat Bar) 2. Knoxville Girl 3. Kingdom of the Corn 4. Born Dead 5. GG Allin 6. Gold is the Metal 7. Trouble was her Name 8. Old Testament 9. Hail to the King 10. Kingdom of the Corn (Live) (CD Bonus Track) 11. St. James Infirmary (Live) (CD Bonus Track)
FIRST SONG “ELECTRIC DREAMS” OUT TODAY LISTEN HERE
FULL COMPILATON LP RELEASES OCTOBER 24
Aug. 22, 2025, LOS ANGELES — Visionary musician, poet, and activist Serj Tankian returns with a stunning new project, Covers, Collaborations & Collages; a genre-spanning collection that celebrates artistic unity, reinvention, and storytelling.
The first single, “Electric Dreams,” (listen: https://createmusic.fm/electricdreams) is available today, via Serjical Strike Records/Create Music Group, launching a ten-week release schedule where a new track will drop each week, culminating in the full compilation album, releasing on Oct. 24, 2025.
“Electric Dreams” single cover by D.S. Bradford
This deeply personal and eclectic body of work features Tankian’s powerful reinterpretations and remarkable collaborations. Among the highlights is a beautifully haunting cover of Chris de Burgh’s “I’m Counting On You,” reimagined with Tankian’s unmistakable emotional intensity.
Covers, Collaborations & Collages showcases striking creative partnerships with some of today’s most innovative artists. Tankian joins with lauded producer Deadmau5 on the hypnotic “A Seed,” New Zealand singer/songwriter Bic Runga’s ethereal voice weaves with Tankian’s in the duet “Things Unspoken,” and acclaimed composer Lucas Vidal creates a sonic canvas upon which Tankian vocally illustrates a scene of the devolution of civilization and the end times, bellowing “There are no more empires / Just burning campfires” on the powerful and cinematic “Apocalyptic Dance.”
Rounding out the collection, Tankian’s cover of Armenian songwriter Ruben Hakhverdyan’s “When Death Arrives,” is a poignant reminder of the reality of our mortality, musing through the eyes of the departed and reminding listeners of the undeniable importance love and truth hold in this world.
Adding a visual dimension to the music, each single’s artwork, and the album’s evocative main cover, has been created by artist D.S. Bradford, who also contributes lead guitar work on the soaring track “Kneeling Away From The Sun.”
With each weekly release, Tankian will share the inspirations, stories and artistic intentions behind the songs, inviting listeners into the creative process like never before.
“Similar to Foundations, these are pre-existing archival recordings, some of them from way back,” says Tankian. “I wanted to put out a record of collaborations I haven’t released before, along with covers, which I haven’t done. The rest, the collages, are parts that fit the puzzle in the same tone, the same vibe.”
Covers, Collaborations & Collages album cover by D.S. Bradford (original photo by Travis Shinn)
NORTH AMERICAN TOUR BEGINS SEPTEMBER 4th – CHELSEA WOLFE SUPPORTS
Aug. 13, 2025 — Following their headlining performance at Fire in the Mountains, Norwegian collective Wardruna have donated $14,000 to Firekeeper Alliance, a non-profit committed to reducing suicide rates among the Blackfeet Nation and other indigenous communities.
The funds were raised through the creation and sale of a limited-edition t-shirt, designed by a student in the Blackfeet Nation. More than 500 shirts were sold both online and at the festival.
“It makes us profoundly happy and proud to see that the Wardruna community all over the world responded with a genuine desire to support the Firekeeper Alliance, their cause, purpose and work,” the band shared. “True light-work is about daring to name and face the shadows, the dark and the pain. Thank you Firekeeper Alliance for your important work with suicide prevention. It was deeply moving to see the positive ripples of this work at Fire in the Mountains. Keep the fire burning!”
Photo credit: Bobby Cochran
“As for many others, our experience is hard to put into words. It was one of those events that changes people and views,” adds Wardruna’s Einar Selvik.
Charlie Speicher, director of Firekeeper Alliance, says: “The connection between FITM, FKA, Wardruna, By Norse and AISAmusic is one of the most powerful relationships I’ve been a part of. This support of our mission and the work we are doing means a lot to us. From the very bottom of our hearts, thank you. This gesture, and everything else you have supported us with, is going to translate directly to creating a safer world here for our loved ones. Please know that your love, support, and generosity has lifted our organization to allow us to help our community in ways we never dreamed would be possible.”
Wardruna returns to North America next month in support of their recently released album, Birna. Chelsea Wolfe opens on all dates except Los Angeles.
Wardruna North American tour dates:
September 4 Fort Worth, TX Will Rogers Memorial Auditorium September 5 San Antonio, TX Tobin Center for the Performing Arts September 7 Phoenix, AZ Ikeda Theatre at The Mesa Arts Center September 8 Los Angeles, CA The Greek Theatre * September 9 Oakland, CA Paramount Theatre September 11 Portland, OR The Keller Auditorium September 14 Seattle, WA The Moore Theatre September 16 Salt Lake City, UT Capitol Theatre September 17 Colorado Springs, CO Pikes Peak Center September 19 Minneapolis, MN Orpheum Theatre September 20 Chicago, IL The Auditorium Theatre September 22 Toronto, ON Massey Hall September 23 Rochester, NY Kodak Center September 24 Boston, MA Wang Theatre September 26 New York, NY Beacon Theatre September 27 Philadelphia, PA Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts September 28 Washington, DC Warner Theatre
*-No Chelsea Wolfe
Photo credit: Morten Munthe
From the Runaljod album trilogy (2009, 2013, 2016), exploring old Norse myths, traditions, and language through the 24 proto-Norse runes, the sound of Wardruna evolved and blended into the stripped down, acoustic compositions on Skald (2018). The group’s most recent album, Birna (2025), explores man’s relationship via the Bear.
Wardruna has performed at multiple manmade historical locations including Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Acropolis, Bulgaria’s Ancient Theater of Philipoppolis, as well as locations set amidst natural wonders such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.
Alongside his work with Wardruna, Einar Selvik has composed music for large tv and game productions such as Vikings and Assassin’s Creed – Valhalla. He also gives tutorials and lectures on Old Norse literature, musicology, instruments and philosophy, and has worked with renowned artists such as Mari Boine, Tina Guo, Matoma and Eivør, including appearances on Norwegian, Danish and Polish national television.
XTASY, one of Spain’s most exciting melodic hard rock bands, are proud to announce the digital re-release of their EP Fuerza Interior, now available on all major streaming platforms.
The EP consists of 5 songs from their previous album Eye of the storm, re-recorded in Spanish, with brand new guitar solos and the bonus track of the song “Crashing Down” (acoustic version).
Fuerza Interior was released as CD format too as a limited edition in 500 copies. Some copies are still available following this link: https://www.xtasyband.com/copy-of-shop
The EP was produced by Jorge Olloqui, founding guitarist and key songwriter of the band, and recorded at Studio Rock 81 in Noain-Pamplona and Sureau Studio in Matadepera. In January 2022, the original tracks were remixed and remastered by Erik Mårtensson (Eclipse) at Mass Destruction Production in Sweden, giving Fuerza Interior a contemporary edge without losing the heart of the original.
Rediscover XTASYFuerzaInterior, hit play and turn it up!
Tokyo Alt-Rock Artist To Follow Up Single With Fierce Music Video and New EP Announcement
Tokyo, Japan – Sarina, an upcoming alt-rock artist from Tokyo, dropped her new single “If you need me to be the villain (Then maybe I am),” a song that outlines the remorseful, contrite feelings an abundance of women undergo, particularly in relationships. Between passionately compelling lyrics and prominent outlooks, Sarina displays wicked, encapsulating themes of surrendering as well as rallying cries. “If you need me to be the villain (Then maybe I am)” is now available for streaming, and a music video for the song will be released on August 20th.
Sarina is also announcing her long-awaited EP, The Fool, out on September 12th. “If you need me to be the villain (Then maybe I am)” marks the first single from the upcoming EP.
Produced by Kevin Thrasher(Panic! At The Disco, Blink-182, Avril Lavigne), the tune promotes confidence and tenacity, setting the scene for a ferocious and unapologetic vindication. Sarina explores relationship conflicts alongside internal dilemmas and adversities, highlighting emotional health. “‘If you need me to be the villain (Then maybe I am)’ is about an experience so many women have, especially in relationships, where we are made to feel like everything is ours to take responsibility for,” she explains. “No matter the issue, we feel like we have to apologize regardless of who was in the wrong. We reassure and apologize despite being the ones hurt.”
At the heart of the track is Sarina’s acceptance of the villain role being cast upon her. This is exhibited throughout the bridge and chorus, coming to the revelation that it’s alright to claim your authority and own your strength. “The song is a surrender just as much as it is a battle cry. In the same breath, I embrace my role as villain in your story, I question whether or not I’m the villain in my own story,” Sarina confesses.
Photo Credit: Andrea Hunter
The eloquent and high-powered energy fills up every melody, leaving audiences wanting more. With thunderous instrumentation and roaring vocals, Sarina creates the ultimate feminist anthem, grabbing the attention of those who have been equally cast as the bad guy in their own lives. The single was mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Maor Appelbaum, known for his work with metal icons like Faith No More, Dream Theater, Sepultura, Rob Halford, and more.
Growing up in Tokyo with artistically gifted parents, Sarina developed an interest in music from a very young age, leading her to chase a career in the industry. The bilingual artist, who was born in Hawaii with a Japanese father and Lebanese mother, became immersed in different cultures, which guided the orchestration of her music. Diving into personal challenges and mental health, her music leads listeners into profound reflection and relatability.
Under the Sony RED label, Sarina released multiple singles, music videos, and an EP titled Foreward. After working with Sony, she teamed up with her mother, a flourishing music business entrepreneur in Japan, to launch a new label, SyrenSong, and earlier this year, she signed a distribution deal with Warner/ADA. With infectious, tuneful melodies and provocative lyrics, she has gained coveted playlist spots on Spotify’s “New Music Friday,” Ones To Watch’s “Now Watching,” Apple Music’s “New In Rock” and “New in Alternative” and features in New Noise Magazine, Music Connection Magazine, Tokyo Noise, antiMusic, V13, Lock Magazine, and more. Sarina has also been involved in a video game company, Square Enix’s JRPG Triangle Strategy, in collaboration with eminent composer Senju Akira.
Blending feral alt-rock with a dash of pop-punk, the track serves as a call to arms and tells listeners to embrace being the villain to feel powerful, even when they’re not the one in the wrong. “If you need me to be the villain (Then maybe I am)” is now available to stream and download. Subscribe to her YouTube channel and stay tuned for the accompanying music video on August 20th and the release of The Fool EP on September 12th. Follow along with Sarina’s career on: Instagram @SarinasMusic and TikTok @sarinamusicofficial.
LOS ANGELES, July 21, 2025 – TOOL returns to Honolulu’s Blaisdell Arena on December 19 for their first Hawaiian date in over a decade.
Tickets are on-sale this Friday, July 25, at 10 a.m. local time. In advance of the public on sale, TOOL Army has opened additional memberships, with pre-sale tickets available exclusively to members from July 23 at 10 a.m. through July 24 at 10 p.m. local time. Visit Toolband.com for ticketing links and additional information.
The band also announced two performances in Japan, their first shows in the country since 2013: December 11 at K-Arena Yokohama and December 13 at Glion Arena Kobe.
Following the 2019 release of TOOL’s critically-acclaimed album, Fear Inoculum, the band has won a GRAMMY Award® (Best Metal Performance for “7empest”), completed multiple, sold-out tours of the U.S., Europe, and South America, and delivered headlining sets at Bonnaroo, Power Trip, Aftershock, Welcome to Rockville, Louder Than Life, and the Sonic Temple Arts & Music Festival.
TOOL most recently appeared at the historic Back to the Beginning concert, where the band performed a three-song set, including their cover of Black Sabbath’s “Hand of Doom.”
Photo credit: Travis Shinn
TOOL formed in 1990, releasing five studio albums: Undertow (1993), Ænima (1996), Lateralus (2001), 10,000 Days (2006), and Fear Inoculum (2019); two EPs: 72826 (1991) and Opiate (1992), and the limited-edition boxset Salival (2000).
The band has won four GRAMMY Awards®: Best Metal Performance (1998, “Ænima”), Best Metal Performance (2002, “Schism”), Best Recording Package (2007, 10,000 Days) and Best Metal Performance (2020, “7empest”). TOOL is Danny Carey (drums), Justin Chancellor (bass), Adam Jones (guitar) and Maynard James Keenan (vocals).
In a landmark collaboration to support the mental health and well-being of music creators, Reigning Phoenix Music and MusiCares have teamed up to spotlight KING ULTRAMEGA, a bold new tribute project honoring the legacy of Chris Cornell. KING ULTRAMEGA debuts today with a powerful reimagining of Soundgarden’s “Rusty Cage,” released via Reigning Phoenix Music.
KING ULTRAMEGA is an all-star collective featuring original members of ALICE IN CHAINS, ANTHRAX, MASTODON and SOUNDGARDEN, alongside legendary artists from the hard rock and metal worlds. With each single release KING ULTRAMEGA will feature different musicians that aim to celebrate Cornell’s musical genius while raising critical funds and awareness for MusiCares, the Recording Academy’s nonprofit providing mental health, addiction recovery, and emergency services to those in the music community.
“Chris Cornell’s voice and presence meant so much to so many, including all of us at MusiCares. He and his loved ones have long championed the importance of our work, and it’s deeply meaningful to see his legacy continue through a project that brings connection, awareness, and hope to the music community.” — Theresa Wolters, Interim Executive Director and VP of Health & Human Services, MusiCares
The lineup for “Rusty Cage” includes:
William DuVall (ALICE IN CHAINS) – Vocals
Bill Kelliher (MASTODON) – Guitars
Mark Menghi (METAL ALLEGIANCE) – Bass
Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX, PANTERA) – Drums
DuVall approaches Cornell’s towering vocal legacy with reverence and restraint: “I just leaned into my love for the song and my immense respect for Chris,” he says. “Since the instrumental track Bill, Charlie, and Mark sent hewed so closely to the original, I thought it best for me to stay in that ballpark as well. Again, my reason for participating was simply taking on an interesting challenge when so much of the world was shut down. I had no thoughts or ambitions for this beyond our posting it on social media five years ago. But if this release can help further the good work done by MusiCares, then I’m all for it.”
Kelliher faithfully channels the song’s jagged, shifting riffs, while Menghi injects a dose of low-end swagger, including a bold bass-wah section in the song’s doom-laden second half. Benante captures Matt Cameron’s explosive style with precision and feel, staying true to the song’s “tight but loose” groove.
KING ULTRAMEGA is more than a tribute, it’s a movement. The collective will continue releasing new interpretations of Cornell’s work across SOUNDGARDEN, AUDIOSLAVE, TEMPLE OF THE DOG, and his solo career, each track featuring rotating guest musicians and collaborators. Proceeds from every release will benefit MusiCares.
The SoapGirls – My buddy Troy and I went to see The SoapGirls at Melody Inn, back on July 3rd, in Indianapolis, Indiana. This was the second time we’ve seen this fabulous sister duo at Melody Inn. The first time we saw The SoapGirls was back on November 3rd, 2023.
Mie plays guitar and does vocals/backing vocals and Mille plays bass and does vocals/backing vocals. Both are so fun to watch perform!! Plus, they are both amazing towards their fans and the kindest of human beings you ever want to meet!
The SoapGirls are from South Africa and to see them twice at the same venue is truly a blessing! I thank The SoapGirls for coming to the USA and believing in their fans here!
The SoapGirls are difficult to pigeonhole musically. They mix punk, alternative and hard rock together seamlessly; while Mille adds both clean and guttural vocals to the mix. Mille also loves to play her bass behind her back! Their songs are all bangers and to not move your body to their grooves is impossible! Trust me, both times I’ve seen the SoapGirls, the crowd at Melody Inn was electric!!
Their entire road crew are the best; they all are such friendly and kind human beings. The owner and staff at Melody Inn are just as friendly and kind. To say that Melody Inn is a jewel of the Midwest is an understatement! The great vibes you feel just entering Melody Inn is unforgettable!
I hope to see The SoapGirls again and will forever sing their praise; as well as endorse Melody Inn! Just click on any photo below to view The SoapGirls! Thank you for visiting! – Stone
Left: Mie, Right: MilleMilleMieMieMilleThe decor at Melody InnOliver Hardy of the classic comedy duo of Laurel and Hardy. Atop shelf at bar in Melody Inn. Creepy clown lit up at Melody Inn.
Some pics from seeing The SoapGirls back on November 3rd, 2023:
RWAKE will take to the stage this June on four special shows including a performance at this year’s edition of Mutants Of The Monster Fest on their home turf of Little Rock, Arkansas as well as a show supporting Acid Bath and Weedeater in St. Petersburg, Florida. More dates will be announced in the weeks to come.
RWAKE Live:
6/06/2025 Mutants Of The Monster Fest – Little Rock, AR [tickets]
6/26/2025 Saturn – Birmingham, AL w/ Hexxus, Hiraeth [tickets]
6/28/2025 Jannus Live – St. Petersburg, FL w/ Acid Bath, Weedeater [tickets]
6/29/2025 The Earl – Atlanta, GA w/ Canopy, Insomniac [tickets]
RWAKE released their long-awaited new full-length, The Return Of Magik, last month on Relapse Records.
Years have now fed into an album that reaches into a swirling, cosmic unknown –RWAKE has grown, and the perspective of the material has shifted accordingly. Overwhelming at its peak and haunting during moments of respite, The Return Of Magik is undeniably RWAKE.
Every movement feels like an emotionally engrossing journey. Arrangements carefully and thoughtfully built in layers over a period of years lend mystique and a feeling of building toward a cathartic release. There is no box into which the material might fit other than one with the band’s name on it.
Stream RWAKE’s The Return Of Magik HERE. Watch the band’s video for “The Return Of Magik” HERE.
The Return Of Magik is available on CD, LP, and digital formats. Find ordering options at Relapse.com HERE.
Recorded in early 2024 at East End Sounds in Hensley, Arkansas, The Return Of Magik introduces RWAKE’s guitarists John Judkins and Austin Sublett with a barrage of shredded solos suited to the angular, progressive metal riffing of the album’s most jaw-clenching moments, while presenting a through-line of molten, immersive ambience.
The opener “You Swore We’d Always Be Together,” already a fixture of live sets and the expansive sprawl of “Distant Constellations And The Psychedelic Incarceration” move with cruelty and grace alike. Foreboding, syncopated riffs sway against Moog-driven space and guttural bellows. The Return Of Magik’s songs stand alone as individualized post-metallic blends of genres.
RWAKE remains dually fronted: Chris Terry’s powerful vocals lay against Brittany Fugate’s visceral screams. Jeff Morgan returns to the drum kit, in addition to acoustic guitar and 12-string bass. Bassist/noisemaker Reid Raley, Sublett, and Judkins set an instrumental backdrop that is vast and engrossing in itself; quiet, contemplative passages often explode into gut-wrenching, doomed out distortions. The Return Of Magik, which features artwork by Loni Gillum of Minerva’s Menagerie and RWAKE, burns brighter and beyond the ferocity of the band’s already storied catalog.
Although the Magik may be bleak, the manner in which RWAKE revels in it can only be called a celebration.
Photo Credit – Derek Carr L-R – Destroyer of Souls – Drums – Bowels of Hell – Bass – Murderer of Colonizers – Guitar – Mayan Hate – Guitar – Lorde Heathen – Vocals
Constantly evolving to explore the darkness and brutality, Canada’s newest black / death metal demons GraveMass (ft. members from Zimmers Hole, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood, Revocation), are unshackling their next single and video “Fallen”. The track is a journey into the darker truth of fallen angels and the embodiment of that sinister truth.
Aggressive, brutal, and driving, the song will be featured on GraveMass‘ forthcoming debut album for release later this year.The full-length is written by Mayan Hate, with lyrics by Lorde Heathen, and promises to be a masterclass in extreme death metal, capturing the true spirit of Canadian black metal.
GraveMass comments on this next preview of their debut full-length:
“The fans are hungry for new material, and this one is a feast. We bring the listener into our world, our experience, our message. A fresh slab of darkness. The soundtrack for the madness that is the current human condition. Enjoy this journey into the unrelenting brutality that is Gravemass.”
Emerging from the depths of the Canadian West Coast metal scene, GraveMass is set to redefine extreme death metal and black metal with their fierce and unrelenting sound. Embodying the essence of sonic brutality with their sinister riffs, bone-crushing rhythms, and unholy vocals.
Drawing inspiration from legends like Slayer, Venom, Morbid Angel, Watain, and Napalm Death, GraveMass is a relentless onslaught of evil, guaranteed to leave a lasting impact on any listener. With decades of experience between its members, they have united to create a sound that is both devastating and true to the roots of black metal.
Prepare yourself for the extreme sonic assault of GraveMass. This is just the beginning.
New album from the multi-instrumentalist comes out April 11
Genre-bending one-man band SAMTAR is set to return with The Bog of Cosmic Delusions. The seventh full-length album by the multi-instrumentalist and songwriter comes fresh off the heels of the acoustic-centric A Second Chapter Made of Wood.
The Bog of Cosmic Delusions stands out as SAMTAR‘s heaviest album to date. With loud and crushing sounds, psychedelic influences, melodic guitars, and grand soaring vocals, this album is sure to satisfy rock and metal listeners alike.
SAMTAR has released three singles from the album. Stream “The Mire,” “Desert Creature” and “Refuse” on Spotify.
The Bog of Cosmic Delusions will be available on digital and limited-edition CD on April 11. Pre-order the album at samtarofficial.com
The Bog of Cosmic Delusions was written, performed, recorded, mixed, and mastered by SAMTAR.
Track-listing:
1. Desert Creature
2. Fickle Fortune
3. All You Ever Wanted
4. Speaker
5. Distant Voices
6. Refuse
7. Destiny is a Lie
8. The Whispers
9. Vicarious Voodoo
10. The Mire
11. Broken Sparrow
12. Drowning the Goddess
SAMTAR, a music-obsessed virtuoso, plies his craft with an unrepentant vigor and passion. Navigating the forests of genre, SAMTAR follows a path to sounds unknown by combining style and influence from all sources. SAMTAR chose to eschew chasing traditional mediums of promotion and instead focused on loving his life through creating music, exploring the outdoors, and translating the ethereal into song. The music SAMTAR creates is human and close, it has a momentum of its own and entreats the listener to be a traveler along the journey to their own peace.
SAMTAR grew up on System of a Down, Nine Inch Nails, The Black Dahlia Murder, Opeth, Sonata Arctica, Muse, Jimi Hendrix, Sublime, and Nirvana. Now he unites these divergent influences with driving bass lines, hook-heavy guitar melodies, powerful vocals, and a healthy dose of synthesizers. He notes some of his biggest vocal influences being from artists like Mike Patton (Mr. Bungle/Faith No More), and Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica). He also takes inspiration from sci-fi/fantasy films and literature.
Exceed In2 Chaos” will be released on February 21st 2025 via Dusktone.
Marking two decades of darkness in the underground, SARKOM returns with their highly anticipated fifth album,“Exceed In2 Chaos”! With four critically acclaimed albums and several EPs to their name, this trailblazing band – led by songwriter and vocalist Erik Unsgaard -continues to deliver top-tier Norwegian black metal.
A furious masterpiece, “Exceed In2 Chaos” stands as a seamless follow-up to their 2016 release, “Anti-Cosmic Art”. While many bands adhere strictly to their roots and traditions, SARKOM boldly pushes boundaries, thriving on innovation. The result? A truly unique and intricate album from start to finish.
Building on their legacy, “Exceed In2 Chaos”masterfully blends the glorious traditions of Norwegian black metal with bold new elements. The album explores dissonances, piercing grooves, varied rhythmic structures, and unexpected twists, delivering a rich and dynamic tracklist. Always forward-thinking, SARKOM redefines their sound with this release, proving that their innovative spirit remains as fierce as ever. Each track reflects the band’s commitment to artistic growth, ensuring a listening experience that is both intense and refreshing.
Another hot contender for taking the longest time to release new music, Hamburg’s own progressive rock/metal outfit EDEN CIRCUS are back with their new single ‘Cynics of Life‘.
10 years have now passed since the last album “Marula” by the five-piece northern German post-prog rockers EDEN CIRCUS. Since then, events have accelerated. First the band has to say goodbye to both guitarists, because Andi is leaving the band and guitarist Nils is moving to the Krupps. Not only are two important driving forces lost, but also the previous songwriting process.
After Waik and Dennis joined the band, they finally played a few gigs again and worked on the new album. Even before Covid paralyzes the entire music landscape, numerous other events turn the band’s everyday life upside down: people move, build houses and 2 1/2 recording studios, start families and new bands. Sometimes the five of them don’t see each other for weeks. But there was never any talk about quitting.
Because the rare rehearsals always clearly show that the band can still deliver. In addition, the new record is finished and, despite all the new commitments, no one has lost the joy of presenting their songs to an audience that celebrates their music on sweaty, beer-soaked club evenings. So here’s to something new!
We are very pleased to give you our 2025 show schedule so far:
16 Apr // BR, Brasília // Arena of Rock 19 Apr // BR, São Paulo // Monsters of Rock 24 Apr // CL, Santiago // Masters of Rock 30 Apr // CO, Cota // Monsters of Rock
24 May // NO, Kopervik // Kopervik Festival 07 Jun // FR, Maxeville // Heavy Weekend 21 Jun // NO, Steinkjer // Steinkjer Festival 28 Jun // SE, Nyköping // Hamnplan 03 Jul // SE, Borlänge // Alive Festival 06 Jul // ES, Chiclana // Concert Music Festival 08 Jul // ES, Marbella // Starlite Festival 10 Jul // ES, Murcia // Plaza de Toros de Murcia 15 Jul // IT, Bologna // Sequioe Music Park 16 Jul // IT, Altidona // Wondergate Music Festival 25 Jul // SE, Vadstena // Vadstena Slott 26 July // NO, Tønsberg // Foynhagen Concert Series Honørbrygga 01 Aug // SE, Karlskrona // Karlskrona Skärgårdsfest 02 Aug // SE, Arvika // Hamnfest
Poised to be one of the breakout acts of 2025, Canadian metal visionary ONI is capping off the year with a new video for his latest single, “Realign.” Shot on the recent tour with POP EVIL and BAD WOLVES, the video catches mastermind Jake Oni and supporting live bandmates, including guitar phenom Jared Dines, performing in their natural habitat in front of thousands of rabid fans across North America.
Co-produced by Oni and Josh Gilbert (SPIRITBOX), “Realign” is found on ONI’s upcoming EP, Genesis, that’s out January 24th. The record will feature 5 tracks including recent singles “Deja Vu,” “Walk Away” and “Control” and the unreleased song “Erase.”
AboutONI: Formed in 2014 by vocalist Jake Oni, ONI quickly became one of Canada’s most promising metal artists with his distinct amalgam of experimental progressive songwriting, brute metalcore savagery and cathartic melody. ONI roared to life with the release of his 2016 debut album, Ironshore, which was produced by Josh Wilbur (Avenged Sevenfold, Korn, Dillinger Escape Plan) and featured guest vocals by Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe on the song “The Only Cure.”
ONI followed up with a monstrous Alone EP in 2019, and returned with his critically lauded second full-length, Loathing Light in 2022, that boasted guests Iggy Pop and Blythe on the song “Secrets” and “Heart To Stone,” which was featured on Spotify’s Best of Kickass Metal 2022 playlist.
Along his meteoric rise in the metal scene, ONI has shared the stage with acts like Megadeth, Gojira, Bullet for My Valentine, Starset, Children of Bodom, Rob Zombie, Death Angel and The Devin Townsend Project.
ONI released his third full-length album, “The Silver Line,” in 2023. The metal artist’s most dynamic yet cohesive album yet was produced, mixed, and mastered by the duo of Spiritbox bassist Josh Gilbert and Joe McQueen (As I Lay Dying, Light The Torch, Bad Wolves). “The Silver Line” is as ambitious as it is catchy and incisive. A quick perusal of the guests featured on ONI’s third album reveals the wide range of his appeal.
“Silence In a Room of Lies” pairs ONI with YouTuber and musician Jared Dines. “Underneath My Skin” features Sleeping With Sirens frontman Kellin Quinn. “Aura” boasts Gilbert and ex-Killswitch Engage singer Howard Jones. Pop-punk-resurgence star Sueco lends his voice to “Spark.” “The Silver Line” ups the ante once more, adding another full-length chapter to ONI’s ever-expanding songbook.
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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