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.
CAN’T GET ENOUGH: A TRIBUTE TO BAD COMPANY – The first-ever tribute to Bad Company arrives October 24.
Pre-order & Pre-save the album on limited-edition silver colored vinyl, CD, all digital formats, special merch bundles, and listen to The Struts cover of “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy” here: https://found.ee/badcompanytribute
Track-list: “Ready For Love” – HARDY “Shooting Star” – Halestorm (feat. Paul Rodgers) “Feel Like Makin’ Love” – Slash Featuring Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators “Run with the Pack” – Blackberry Smoke (feat. Paul Rodgers & Brann Dailor) “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy”– The Struts “Bad Company” – Charley Crockett “Rock Steady” – Dirty Honey “Burnin’ Sky” – Black Stone Cherry “Seagull” – Joe Elliott and Phil Collen of Def Leppard (feat. Paul Rodgers & Simon Kirke) “All Right Now” – The Pretty Reckless
Founding members Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke also appear on the album, bringing this tribute full circle.
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:
Italian hard rock powerhouse Chris Catena’s Rock City Tribe are back with a brand-new EP titled No Gods, No Masters, Just Riffs, available now across all digital platforms.
This explosive new release includes four tracks:
The EP includes: “Radio”, the successfully powerful and emotionally charged rock ballad written by the late Ryan Whyte Maloney and mixed by Grammy-winning engineer Brian Vibberts. “Welcome to Intencity”, the official anthem of Intencity Festival 2025 (Romania), where the band will perform live on June 28.
The festival will take place from June 26 to 29 in Craiova. “Bang Bang”, a daring and energetic cover of the pop hit by Jessie J and Ariana Grande, featuring guest appearances from US rapper Toni Marino and singer Shari. “Bang Bang (Funky Horns Take)”, a groovy, funk-infused reimagining of the same track, adding a whole new flavor to the original reinterpretation.
CHRIS CATENA’S ROCK CITY TRIBE are: Chris Catena – Vocals Massimo Canfora – Guitar Valerio Axl Amoroso – Guitar, resonator and vocals Giorgio Gallo – Drums Marco Fiormonti – Bass and vocals
The single “Welcome to Intencity” is mixed by Glen Robinson, already known for his work on the band’s acclaimed track “Freight Train”. The two versions of “Bang Bang” were mixed by Daniel Salcido (Sevendust, Disturbed, Airbourne, Pop Evil) together with Glen Robinson, delivering a powerful blend of contemporary rock edge and studio excellence.
The EP marks a new chapter for the band, expanding their musical boundaries while remaining deeply rooted in the spirit of hard rock, funk, and powerful melodies.
To support the release, Chris Catena’s Rock City Tribe will perform at the Intencity Festival 2025 in Romania on June 26 and will embark on a Japan tour in October 2025 with the following confirmed dates:
October 21 – Kobe
October 23 – Kyoto
October 24 – Osaka
Chris Catena’s Rock City Tribe will perform at the Intencity Festival 2025 on June 28, sharing the stage with major international acts in front of over 60,000 people at the city’s main stadium in Craiova, Romania. Intencity is one of Eastern Europe’s largest open-air music festivals, known for its spectacular staging, diverse lineup, and powerful atmosphere.
The Circle Music have signed the electrifying Swedish horrorpunk band Left Hand Black. Hailing from Gothenburg, this quartet, consisting of veterans of the local music scene, will release their third full-length album, Left Hand Black 3: Death Can’t Keep Us Apart, in September.
Formed in the spring of 2019 on an island just outside Gothenburg, Left Hand Black brings together the formidable talents of Hans Hagström and Jonathan Jansson (formerly of The Dead Next Door) with Johan Hansson and Anton Zachrisson (from Overdrive Solution). Their sound is a potent brew of old-school melodic horror punk and rock, drawing inspiration from iconic bands such as Misfits, Ramones and Bad Religion.
Johan Hansson of Left Hand Black said: “I have followed Maria and The Circle Music since the first release, and with her passion for the music and what she does for the bands, this is a dream come true. We are super excited to be part of the TCM family.”
Left Hand Black have carved a reputation with their previous releases: their self-titled debut in 2020 via Wolverine Records and their 2022 follow-up, Lower Than Satan through Sunny Bastard Records/Sick Taste Records. Now, with Left Hand Black 3: Death Can’t Keep Us Apart they aim to solidify their position as purveyors of infectious horror-infused punk anthems.
As the band have declared: “We prove that we can write hits and are an insanely good live band that takes no prisoners and celebrates a hellish party with you in the graveyard.”
L- R – Aidan Desmarais – Lead vocals, Guitars – Chris LoNigro – Guitars – Hunter Raymond – Drums, Vocals – Jacob Chase – Bass | Photo Credit: Hunter Raymond (self-timer)
+ Limited Edition Cassette For EP “Fatal Attraction” Out June 2025
High intensity, no filler rockers, Calgary’s LOVER announces they will be performing at this year’s Armstrong Metal Fest (July 11/12), one of Canada’s loudest mountain moshpits nestled in the beautiful backdrop of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.
The band is playing in support of their latest EPFatal Attraction, which the thrashback metallers will be releasing on limited edition cassette on June 20th, 2025. “Fatal Attraction” is fast, it’s real, and it’s meant to kick you in the face! Even though the EP is only two tracks, this is a sampler of more to come.
The opening title track is an energetic rush of sound that captures the ups and downs of being overwhelmed by desire. The lyrics feed this feeling by talking about lust and substance abuse. Track 2. “Bad Love” lyrically is a tough and mean reality check. It’s based on a true story of love gone wrong. It has aggressive riffs, mean solos, and is meant to capture the strain of a mind in love and turmoil.
“For real though, we used our real-life experiences of love, hardship, and lust to tell a story, and it just happens to be set to the tune of high-energy rock n roll,” adds the band.
Recommended for fans of Scorpions, Riot City, Wasp, Judas Priest, Van Halen, and Thin Lizzy, listen to “Fatal Attraction” at the following links:
On the heels of re-visiting Latin American stages and announcing a new album and tour for autumn 2025, Canadian high-octane rock three-piece DANKO JONES have released their anticipated single “What You Need“. The song represents the band’s first auditory glimpse from their new album and also marks their debut at their new label, PERCEPTION, while their partnership with Sonic Unyon Records in their home country remains unchanged.
While fans still have to be a little bit more patient until learning more about the forthcoming record, the new track comes straight to the point: “If you want it, you got it, we’re gonna give you WHAT YOU NEED!” Who would even dare to refuse such a teasing offer and say ‘no’ to this powerful new DANKO JONES tune?! Concise guitar riffing introduces the single before the rest of the band jumpstart “What You Need“ leading into its immersive chorus, making it an undeniable future live classic on top.
Danko adds: “‘What You Need’ is not only the first single off our new album, it’s also the opening cut to it. It’s loud, fast, and infectious. Turn this up until the volume knob breaks or your ceiling caves in!”
Photo credit: Jon Usual L-R: Rich Knox (drums), Danko Jones (vocals, guitars), John Calabrese (bass)
“What You Need” was crafted with long-time partners — Grammy and Juno award-winning producer/mixing engineer Eric Ratz (BILLY TALENT, BIG SUGAR, CANCER BATS etc.) and Grammy winning mastering expert Harry Hess (Hbomb Mastering) — and arrives in time for the trio’s first 2025 European show, which will see them take the Paaspop stage in Schijndel, Netherlands in two weeks. Adam Mallett, another well-known face in the DANKO JONES universe, contributed contemporary single artwork which is additionally displayed on the “Danko Jones Is What You Need” tour admat.
As previously mentioned, Danko Jones will promote their upcoming studio album in the traditional way, by embarking on a 15-date tour across Europe, visiting 10 different countries. Further stops might be added over the course of the year. Stay tuned & secure your tickets fromhttps://www.dankojones.com/tour.
DANKO JONES live:
18.04.2025 NL Schijndel – Paaspop 31.05.2025 BE Herenthout – Clamotte Rock 05.06.2025 NO Trondheim – Trondheim Rocks 06.06.2025 SE Sölvesborg – Sweden Rock Festival 14.06.2025 AT Nickelsdorf – Nova Rock 27./28.06.2025 EE Tallinn – Rock Festival 05.07.2025 DE Mainburg – Festival Holledau 17.07.2025 FI Seinäjoki – Vauhtiajot 25.07.2025 NO Fredrikstad – Månefestivalen 26.07.2025 DE Mönchengladbach – Bob! Fest 06. – 10.08.2025 DE Eschwege – Open Flair 15.08.2025 NO Alta – Alta Live 16.08.2025 NO Hardstad – Bakgården 17.08.2025 CH Cudrefin (VD) – Rock The Lakes 21. – 23.08.2025 DE Haddeby – Baltic Open Air
19.11.2025 FI Helsinki – Tavastia 22.11.2025 NO Oslo – Vulkan Arena 26.11.2025 DE Osnabrück – Rosenhof 27.11.2025 LU Luxembourg – Den Atelier 28.11.2025 NL Amsterdam – Melkweg 29.11.2025 UK London – The Underworld Camden 03.12.2025 BE Antwerp – Trix (Main Hall) 04.12.2025 FR Paris – Le Trabendo 06.12.2025 IT Milan – Legend Club 08.12.2025 DE Mannheim – Alte Feuerwache 09.12.2025 AT Salzburg – Rockhouse 10.12.2025 DE Munich – Backstage (Werk) 11.12.2025 DE Cologne – Carlswerk Victoria 12.12.2025 DE Berlin – Astra 13.12.2025 DE Hamburg – Docks
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.
Aug. 28 – Louisville, KY @ Iroquois Amphitheater Aug. 30 – Eau Claire, WI @ The Sonnentag Sep. 01 – Paw Paw, MI @ Warner Vineyards Sep. 04 – Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre Sep. 05 – Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater & Ballroom Sep. 06 – Rockford, IL @ Coronado Performing Arts Center Sep. 12 – Airway Heights, WA @ Spokane Live Sep. 13 – Idaho Falls, ID @ Mountain America Center Sep. 14 – Boise, ID @ Morrison Center Sep. 17 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Theater at Virgin Hotels Sep. 19 – Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theatre Sep. 20 – Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theatre Sep. 21 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel Entertainment Center Oct. 03 – Carteret, NJ @ Carteret PAC Oct. 04 – Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater
Vocals, guitars, drums, and bass: The basic elements of all things rock is what DANKO JONES, one of Canada’s most successful hard ‘n’ heavy exports, has represented consistently since their foundation in 1996. Constant radio airplay in leading rock countries around the world, the most dedicated fan bases any band could ever ask for, both at festivals and their jam-packed club shows plus several award considerations – incl. five Juno Award nominations (the Canadian “Grammy”) – throughout their career have cemented their leading role in the rock ‘n’ roll world over and over again.
DANKO JONES manages to unite not only rockers but also music lovers of genres far beyond hard rock and punk, with their rich catalogue consisting of eleven successfully electrifying studio albums so far. Their last nine (!) full-length albums even entered the official German and Swiss album chart (along with multiple other countries).
Now signed to PERCEPTION, a division of Reigning Phoenix Music, one of the fastest growing rock labels in the world, DANKO JONES’ yet-to-be-announced 12th offering was just finished under the watchful eyes of Juno and Grammy Award winning producer Eric Ratz (BILLY TALENT, BIG SUGAR, CANCER BATS etc.), and is tentatively due out in autumn 2025. It was also Ratz who was already involved in the creation process of one of the group’s very early offerings, the EP My Love Is Bold in 1999, as well as some of their most successful studio albums over the years.
Photo credit: Jon Usual | L-R: Rich Knox (drums), Danko Jones (vocals, guitars), John Calabrese (bass)
As mentioned earlier, DANKO JONES has also built a reputation as one of the greatest live bands around. Today, Danko Jones (vocals & guitar), bassist John Calabrese, and drummer Rich Knox are pleased to announce a European tour guiding them across the pond in late 2025, where fans will have a chance to see the first live performances of some of their brand-new songs complementing the band’s already hit-packed set list. All official dates can be found below. More to come.
DANKO comments: “We are excited to be on PERCEPTION. Counting down the days for everyone to listen to our 12th album, and to start playing the new tunes live. In the meantime, enjoy the first single – ‘What You Need’!”
Managing director Jochen Richert states: “Ever since the release of Born A Lion in 2001, DANKO JONES, his management and I have been on this journey together. Wow, nearly 25 years – almost half a lifetime. And yet, DANKO JONES still sounds as fresh and exciting as on day one. But this wild ride is far from being over, and therefore I’m incredibly proud to welcome DANKO JONES to PERCEPTION. I can say with the utmost conviction that the new songs are among the best this unique artist has ever written.”
Aptly titled “What You Need,” DANKO JONES’ PERCEPTION debut single will become available on all streaming platforms on April 4 – just in time for the outfit to kick-off their 2025 festival season at Paaspop (NL). The empowering track can be pre-saved here: https://dankojones.rpm.link/whatuneedPR
Watch MISS LAVA’s lyric video for “Under A Black Sun” HERE.
Like distant moons spitting fire, Lisbon, Portugal-based rock unit MISSLAVA forged their new album Under A Black Sun. Carrying a darker and heavier emotional weight than their previous outings, the band’s fifth album is set to be released through Small Stone Recordings on April 25th, today unveiling the record’s first single and preorders.
“It’s a pretty intense record,” says singer Johnny Lee. “Our life experiences over the past years have made us delve into a darker matter. We explored new territories and had a blast creating this album.”
The release of Under A Black Sun will celebrate the band’s longevity, marking their 20th anniversary. It’s sonic flame with many cosmic swirls that urges to be unleashed live. “It has been a hell of a ride since we started rehearsing in a small studio in Lisbon back in 2005,” confirms guitarist K. Raffah. “Having this record come out twenty years later with a partner like Small Stone is the best thing we could wish for. Now we just need to get out there and play these songs live everywhere we can!”
This mystical rite of creation was the first record with drummer Pedro Gonçalves, bringing a heavier vibe to the band. Under A Black Sun was recorded and engineered once again with Miguel “Veg” Marques, who handled the band’s previous record, Doom Machine, produced by MISS LAVA and Marques, mixed by Steve Lehane, and mastered by Chris Goosman.
In advance of the record’s release, today the band unveils, Under A Black Sun’s title track. Comments Lee, “This song is about falling under a dark influence and the duality of this situation. For some, it’s total absence of light, but others manage to orbit around it.”
Watch MISS LAVA’s lyric video for “Under A Black Sun” HERE.
Under A Black Sun includes guest keys on “Blue Sky On Mars,” “Dark Tomb Nebula,” “Elara,” “Evil Eye Of The Witch,” and “Woe Warrior” by Miguel “Veg” Marques, guest vocals on “Elara” by Alexandra Quintas “Bebé,” and artwork by João Filipe.
The record will be released on CD and digital formats as well as limited vinyl. Find all preorders on the official Small Stone Recordings Bandcamp page HERE.
Under A Black Sun – Track Listing:
1. Dark Tomb Nebula
2. Neon Gods
3. Evil Eye Of A Witch
4. Chaos Strain
5. Woe Warrior
6. The Bends
7. Fear In Overdrive
8. I Drown
9. Blue Sky On Mars (Bonus Track – CD/Digi)
10. Elara
11. Under A Black Sun
MISS LAVA: Johnny Lee – vocals K. Raffah – guitars P. Gonçalves – drums Ricardo Ferreira – bass Hugo Jacinto – guitars
Over the years, the band has played live in clubs and festivals in the UK, Spain, Germany, and of course Portugal. MISS LAVA even made a one-off appearance at the legendary Whisky a Go-Go in Los Angeles. The band has shared stages with the likes Of Queens Of The Stone Age, Slash, Graveyard, Ufomammut, Greenleaf, Kyuss Lives!, Fu Manchu, Valient Thorr, Entombed, Truckfighters, and many more. The band, now a five-piece with two guitar players, has confirmed shows throughout the Spring and Summer months with more to be announced in the weeks to come.
MISS LAVA Live: 4/26/2025 Lav – Lisboa, PT w/ Graveyard 4/30/2025 A Cofradia – Vilanova De Arousa, ES 5/01/2025 Grc Amigos De Seixas – Seixas, PT 5/02/2025 Pub Transylvania – Vigo, ES 5/03/2025 O Bar Queiro – Mañón, ES 6/06/2025 Bafo De Baco – Loulé, PT 6/07/2025 TBA – Oliveira De Frades, PT 6/26/2025 Wurlitzer – Madrid, ES 6/28/2025 Chatnoir – Badajoz, ES 7/02/2025 Antwerp Music City – Antwerp, BE 7/03/2025 Pitchers – Düsseldorf, DE 7/04/2025 Rare Guitar – Münster, DE 7/05/2025 Ostpol – Dresden, DE 7/06/2025 Dirty & Dancing – Osnabrück, DE
Artwork • “The Predator“ Jimmy Lindbergh / Mother Misery
Swedish Melodic Heavy Rockers MOTHER MISERY release their brand new single” The Predator” today, March 7th!
The band informs about the new single “The Predator“: “‘The Predator’ was recorded in the same session as our last album ‘From Shadow To Ghost’. We felt the track had a different vibe to the rest of the songs and decided to keep it for a special release. When we invited David ‘DaKe’ Isberg, known for Blood Of Jupiter and as a founding member of Opeth, to add some of his deep growl to the song, it felt complete and even more special. The song has a driving riff, a mellow verse and a melodic chorus, along with a nice breakdown in the middle.”
LINE-UP: John Hermansen • Vocals, Guitar Emil Ström • Guitar, Lead-Guitar Stiff Hell • Bass Jimmy Lindbergh • Drums, Percussions
DISCOGRAPHY: 2004 • Grandiosity • Full-length 2006 • For The Crows • EP 2007 • All Eyes On You • Full-length 2010 • Standing Alone • Full-length 2015 • Deadication • EP 2018 • Megalodon • Full-length 2023 • From Shadow To Ghost • Full-length 2025 • The Predator • Single
Mastord is a Finnish progressively rocking project that has released two albums Trail Of Consequence (2019) and To Whom Bow Even The Trees (2021). Third album, Lemmon Lintu, is released today on February 14, 2025, exactly six years after the debut album.
A lot has changed since the last release. The singing language has changed from English to Finnish, the soundscape has become lighter and new people have brought their strong expertise to the music.
Guitarist and songwriterKari Syveläbackgrounds the new album: “When all is lost and life slowly dwindles away, a journey begins from which there is no return. “Raven” takes the listener to the depths of the soul, where loneliness, the longing for abandonment are the only companions and comfort. In this story, man steps into the enchanting shadow of the black bird and walks towards the edge of death, but not only towards the end, but towards a new way of being.
The journey is not just about letting go, it is also a journey of self-discovery – no longer in the human, but in a much larger and freer sense. Going ever deeper, grief and despair turn into understanding, and finally, somewhere in the darkest night, death is no longer an end but a transformation.
Lemmon Lintu is not only an album about death, but also about life after death. In this story, a man who has lost himself finds a new life – no longer as a man, but as a raven, doing his work as an altruistic, humble and most respectful escort to the afterlife. In the end, the raven’s song is no longer just a call to death, but the soothing sound of life and death merging together, telling us that even when we lose everything, we can still find something in ourselves that will never die.”
Markku Pihlaja – vocals and lyrics Jenni Roslakka – backing vocals Jarmo Pikka – drums Antti Huopainen – pianos, electric pianos and Hammonds Pasi Hakuli – bass frequencies Kari Syvelä – guitars and synthesizers
Legendary rocker Jizzy Pearl is back! The unmistakable voice behind Blackout in the Red Room returns with Punk Rock Fiesta! on March 1, 2025, via Kenyon Records. This latest album from Jizzy Pearl’s Love/Hate is a raw, unfiltered blast of fiery rock ‘n’ roll energy, packed with high-voltage riffs, anthemic choruses, and relentless attitude.
A No-Holds-Barred Rock & Roll Experience
From the Sunset Strip to stages worldwide, Jizzy Pearl has made his mark on rock history, selling over 600,000 albums and sharing the stage with AC/DC, Ozzy Osbourne, Skid Row, and Dio. He currently sings for Quiet Riot and has recorded and toured with RATT and L.A. Guns. Now, he delivers a powerhouse collection of songs, capturing the fire and energy of no-frills rock ‘n’ roll and it’s Punk Rock Fiesta!
High-Energy Rock with a Fierce Edge
Punk Rock Fiesta! is a high-octane ride that leans into the rebellious spirit of classic, streetwise rock. Featuring blistering guitar solos and Jizzy’s signature vocals, equal parts grit and soul, the album is a relentless sonic assault.
The lead single, “You’re Gonna Burn,” is already creating a buzz, showcasing former Love/Hate member Darren Housholders’ electrifying guitar work alongside Jizzy’s commanding presence.
“Rock ‘n’ roll should be dangerous, unpredictable, and make you feel something,”saysJizzy Pearl. “We wanted to bring back that energy that made music exciting in the first place. This record is screaming, loud, and full of old-school rock ‘n’ roll soul!”
A Legacy of Rock, A New Chapter Begins
Since 1990, with Love/Hate’s debut Blackout in the Red Room, (namedBest Record of the Year by Kerrang! and Metal Hammer) Jizzy Pearl has remained a respected force in rock. Whether commanding the stage with multi-platinum bands or pushing his own creative limits, he continues to evolve while staying true to his hard rock roots.
PUNK ROCK FIESTA!
You’re Gonna Burn
Eye For An Eye
The Wrath Of Love
Over The Edge
Didya Think You Could Fall In Love?
Can’t Be Wrong
I’ll Be Your Shadow
Time To Take Your Pill
With his seventh solo album, Jizzy Pearl is ready to shake up the rock world once again.
Get ready for Punk Rock Fiesta!, the unfiltered, unapologetic sound of real rock ‘n’ roll. Out March 1, 2025!
LINE-UP: Jizzy Pearl: Vocals, Guitars, Bass Guitar Darren Housholder: Guitars Christian Kimmett: Bass Guitar Dave Moreno: Drums
CREDITS: All Songs Words and Music by Jizzy Pearl Produced by Jizzy Pearl Executive Producer: Brian Kenyon Mixed by Andy Haller & Jizzy Pearl at Android Audio, AZ Mastered by Maor Appelbaum Guitars recorded by Tim Hofstetter Drums recorded by Dave Moreno at Doom Room Studios, CA Additional guitars: Andy Haller Cover Art: Jordan Hursch Layout and design: Michael Wohlberg Album photos Christina Pearl
UK DATES: March 5th Edinburgh at Bannermans March 6th Newcastle at Trillians March 7th Buckley at Tivoli March 8th Wolverhampton at K.K.’s Steelmill Mark 9th Blackpool at Waterloo March 12th Bradford at Nightrain March 13th Camden at Underworld March14th Yarmouth at Hard Rock Hell March 15th Crumlin at Patriot March 16th Swansea at Hanger 18
US DATES: July 4th West Hollywood, CA at The Whisky July 5th Las Vegas, NV at Vamp’d
NORTH AMERICAN TREK CELEBRATES THE SEMINAL RED ALBUM AND BLUE RECORD
February 5, 2025 – Baroness recently surprised Philadelphia-area fans with two performances of the Red Album and Blue Record in their entirety, both of which sold-out within minutes. The band is now bringing “The Red & Blue Tour” to the Midwest and East Coast this Spring.
The trek kicks off on May 7, with Baroness revisiting the monumental tracks that established them as one of the most innovative bands of their generation. From the psychedelic-laden “Isak” to the ethereal melodies of “The Sweetest Curse,” the special evenings with the Savannah-born outfit promise to be one of the most captivating tours of the year.
Tickets are on sale this Friday, February 7 at 10 a.m. local time via YourBaroness.com. The tour will feature a variety of exclusive tour-only vinyl with newly crafted John Baizley artwork, as well as a selection of Red and Blue themed merchandise.
Photo credit: Ebru Yildiz
“In December, for our annual Philly pre-holiday show, we performed our first two full length albums: Red and Blue,” John Baizley shares. “It was a great experience, unearthing the deeper cuts from those records that had faded from our setlist and it offered a rare opportunity to play some of those songs for the first time ever outside the studio. While I’ve personally never been overly interested in the pure nostalgia of past records, we’ve always found it illuminating to bridge the gap between present and past Baroness by learning and updating/rearranging our earliest material. After the overwhelming and positive response from the Philadelphia shows (and while we’re busy writing our next record) we’re looking forward to taking Red and Blue on the road and sharing the experience with old and new friends alike.”
The Red Album (2007) and Blue Record (2009) laid the foundation for what was to come over Baroness’ 20-year-plus career. These two albums introduced the band’s distinctive style, combining crushing heaviness with melodic intricacy, and paved the way for the ambitious scope of Yellow & Green, the GRAMMY-nominated Purple, the grandeur of Gold & Grey, and the expansive creativity of STONE.
Swiss hard rock legends GOTTHARD have kicked off the new year with the release of their second single, “Thunder & Lightning,” from their upcoming 12-track studio album Stereo Crush. As the world remains blanketed in snow, this new track spreads spring fever with its uplifting leads and emotionally charged storyline about love, quickly capturing the hearts of fans and heightening anticipation for the band’s eagerly awaited new album.
Today, alongside the worldwide launch of pre-orders, GOTTHARD are also excited to reveal the cover artwork for Stereo Crush, set to hit the shelves on March 21, 2025 via RPM. The artwork, designed by Thomas Ewerhard, who has previously collaborated with the band, perfectly encapsulates the album’s themes of honesty, rawness, and a broad spectrum of emotions.
Freddy [Scherer; guitars] came to my house with the musical idea for this song. We started there and came up with the structure and the vocal melodies together and recorded the demo there. I then spent quite some time figuring out lyrics. The sound of the chorus riff somehow sounded electric to me, and I was thinking of words like ‘lightning’ and thunder’ etc…and then I thought of the concept of how lightning never strikes twice but in this case it does, using this as a metaphor for love. Also in French, which I’m fluent in, you can say that ‘love at first sight’ is like getting hit by a bolt of lightning,” singer Nic Maeder sheds light on the track’s creation.
After releasing two singles, there’s no real doubt that GOTTHARD are more than ready for the future with Stereo Crush! Decorated with a powerful and contemporary production, the album delivers a series of big anthems but also a few surprises which help the Swiss icons to improve their DNA fresh and to spice up the essence of their trademark sound in an exciting way. It’s clear like Swiss glacier water: 2025 belongs to GOTTHARD!
Stereo Crush – Track Listing:
01. AI & I 02. Thunder & Lightning 03. Rusty Rose 04. Burning Bridges 05. Drive My Car 06. Boom Boom 07. Life 08. Liverpool 09. Shake Shake 10. Devil In The Moonlight 11. Dig A Little Deeper 12. These Are The Days
Photo credit: Manuel Schütz L-R: Freddy Scherer (guitars), Marc Lynn (bass), Nic Maeder (vocals), Flavio Mezzodi (drums), Leo Leoni (guitars)
Produced and mixed by long-time partner Charlie Bauerfeind, who’s known for his work with the likes of HELLOWEEN and BLIND GUARDIAN, alongside founding member Leo Leoni at Yellowhouse Studio, and mastered by Sascha “Busy” Bühren (TrueBusyness), with artwork once again provided by Thomas Ewerhard (AVANTASIA etc.), Stereo Crush promises to set new standards which will additionally come to shine on the band’s forthcoming touring cycle: GOTTHARD will be touring in May, accompanied by special guests Y&T, rounded off by select festival and headline dates during the course of the year. The band’s current live schedule and ticket info can be found below!
21.05.2025 DE Saarbücken – Garage (w/ ECLIPSE) NEW
Special Guests: Y&T Presented by Metal Hammer, Classic Rock, musix, Rock Antenne, powermetal.de & Bottom Row 23.05.2025 DE Bochum – RuhrCongress 24.05.2025 DE Geiselwind – Music Hall 25.05.2025 DE Frankfurt – Batschkapp 27.05.2025 DE Hamburg – Große Freiheit 36 29.05.2025 DE Munich – Circus Krone 30.05.2025 DE Filderstadt – FILharmonie 31.05.2025 AT Telfs – Rathaussaal
14.06.2025 ES Zamora – Z! Live Rock 27.06.2025 CH Basel – Summerstage (w/ KROKUS) 28.06.2025 DE Ehingen – Martkplatz (w/ KROKUS) NEW 20.07.2025 CH Locarno – Moon&Stars (“Steve Lee – The Show”) NEW 22.07.2025 DE Regensburg – Piazza im Gewerbepark 06.08.2025 CH Zofingen – Heitere (w/ Orchestra) NEW 10.08.2025 DE Tettnang – Schlossgarten (w/ KROKUS) NEW 19.12.2025 CH Bern – Festhalle (w/ KROKUS) 20.12.2025 CH Zurich – The Hall (w/ KROKUS)
Photographer Credit – Lisa Thompson (Dark Moon Productions) L-R – Adam Hansen (Guitar), Dylan Gunnell (Vocals), Paulo Ferraz (Bass), Jer Renaud (Drums)
Sophomore EP “The Greatest Divide” Out April 2025
Marble Ghosts, the Canadian boundary pushing ensemble known for their distinctive blend of metal, grunge, and punk influences, has announced their highly anticipated second EP “The Greatest Divide” set for release on April 4, 2025. The band comments on the first, explosive single “Distance Between”:
“From the opening lyric of the EP, “Here we are in the greatest divide”, the songs explore the ever-growing rift between almost every part of modern-day society. From the rich and the shrinking middle class to widening gaps in political and religious ideologies, the EP was inspired by our reality.”
Musically, the single shows off its punk-metal roots, never relenting from beginning to end. The biting rapid-fire verses meet the band’s characteristic soaring choruses. The band shows off its guitar chops with a blistering solo that perfectly matches the song’s energy. The song crescendos with another feverish solo over top desperate screams.
The EP and the single are recommended for fans of Alter Bridge, Shinedown, and Saint Asonia.
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"
Metal Odyssey > Heavy Metal Music Blog 
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