Japanese alternative rockers THE UNDERTAKER have announced their new shows, taking place in Kyoto and Tokyo! See the details below.
May 20, 2023 (Sat) @TRUST in Kyoto June 30, 2023 (Friday) @HEIST in Tokyo July 14, 2023 (Friday) @SCIENCE, HEIST in Tokyo July 22, 2023 (Saturday) @SCIENCE in Tokyo August 11, 2023 (Friday / Holiday) @HEIST Tokyo September 15, 2023 (Friday) @HEIST in Tokyo
The band is currently working on their full-length album, coming out in 2023. More details TBA. Their sound is unique, drawing influences from rock, blues, country, hardcore and punk.
Formed in 2021 as a “big old rookie band” including members of veteran bands such as SURVIVE and AGGRESSIVE DOGS a.k.a. UZI-ONE that are active in Japan and abroad. The band’s first EP, “The Undertaker,” was released in 2022 and ranked in the top 20 on the iTunes store, an unprecedented accomplishment for an underground heavy band. The band’s worldview is truly one-of-a-kind, ranging from old-school Japanese hardcore, which has long been respected in the international scene, to extreme metal, and lyrics that incorporate Japanese poetry. Their unparalleled sound is sure to take the scene by storm.
Esoteric melodic rock outfit The Sigil is preparing to unleash their mesmerizing new EP Arganteon June 16th. A tour de force of attitude and energy, with electrifying guitar riffs, pounding drums, and a driving bass lines, Argante features intense vocals and captivating lyrics; a modern classic in the making.
The Sigil‘s trademark sound is on full display, with a raw and unapologetic approach to rock that’s both timeless and contemporary. A new sense of urgency and purpose propels the band to new heights of creativity and expression.
Just as the alchemists of old spent ages trying to uncover strange and arcane secrets, The Sigil have spent years of creative exploration to bring forth the music of Argante. From dynamic rock scorchers like “The Shape of Shadows” to the foreboding doominess of brand new track “Absentia”, Argante takes the listener on a journey. Will you come?
The Sigil came about as a no-holds-barred expression to combat the musical fatigue of the founding duo. A shared interest in folklore, history and the occult set the tone for both music and lyrics: melodic and memorable, yet often melancholy and haunting. In 2023, three new members were added, turning the project into a full fledged band.
Argantebrings together all of the elements the band has been teasing with previous singles. A force to be reckoned with, The Sigil is here to leave their mark on 2023.
Argante Tracklist: The Shape of Shadows Sanguine Spirits The Ailing Hour Spirit of the Wild Absentia
THE SIGIL is:
Thomas Clifford – Vocals Tomas Göransson – Guitars Henrik Albinsson – Guitars Daniel Börefelt – Bass Joakim Bergman – Drums
Los Angeles hard-rockers STITCHED UP HEART have returned with an unapologetic new single, “To The Wolves.” A harbinger of things to come and one of the band’s heaviest songs to date, the anthemic new track serves as an inspiration to stand up and fight back, as vocalist Mixi Demner reminds you: “You’re f*cking with a wolf!”
“Incredibly excited to finally unleash our first single ‘To The Wolves,’” Mixi elaborates. “We didn’t play it safe on this one. We were more ourselves than ever and had a very clear vision of what we wanted to create.”
Featuring Craig Mabbitt and produced by Kevin Thrasher from ESCAPE THE FATE, the invigorating new track is accompanied by a first-bitten video, which can be viewed HERE. Showing the band, as well as Craig, surrounded by a frozen forest, the biting cold of the scenery furthers the biting message of the track.
“To The Wolves” is also available across all streaming platforms HERE.
More about STITCHED UP HEART:
STITCHED UP HEART is an American rock band known for their powerful and emotionally charged music. Formed in Los Angeles, California in 2010, the band has captivated audiences around the world with their unique blend of hard rock, alternative metal, and industrial influences. Led by the talented and charismatic vocalist Alecia “Mixi” Demner, STITCHED UP HEART has gained recognition for their intense live performances and deeply personal songwriting.
Mixi began assembling a lineup of musicians who shared her passion, dedication, and vision. Solidifying the core members James Decker on drums, Merritt Goodwin on guitar, and Randy Mathias on bass in 2016 upon signing with Century Media Records. They released their album titled “Never Alone,” which debuted in the Top 10 of both the Billboard Heatseeker and Hard Rock charts. With their single “Finally Free” organically gaining hyper rotation on active rock radio the band paved the way to success for the next two singles “Monster” and “Catch Me When I Fall”.
With a growing fan base and relentless determination, STITCHED UP HEART has toured extensively, touring with renowned acts like GODSMACK, HALESTORM, and IN THIS MOMENT. Their live performances are known for their high energy, infectious hooks, and Mixi’s captivating stage presence, leaving audiences mesmerized and craving more.
In 2020, STITCHED UP HEART released their highly anticipated sophomore album, “Darkness.” Produced by Matt Good. The album delves further into the band’s introspective songwriting and showcases their growth as musicians. Tracks like “Lost” featuring Sully Erna of GODSMACK and “My Demon” highlight the band’s ability to blend heavy guitar riffs with anthemic choruses, making a lasting impact on the rock genre.
STITCHED UP HEART continues to push boundaries and evolve their sound, refusing to be confined to a single label or genre. With their unwavering passion for music and their ability to connect with audiences on a profound level, STITCHED UP HEART is a force to be reckoned with in the rock music landscape.
MODERN MIMES, the alternative heavy rock outfit from South Florida, have unleashed their new single “Heavy Heart”. Following their latest single “Down and Dead”, “Heavy Heart” ventures into darker realms. Heavy distortion, dynamic electronics and stunning vocals combine to create a thrilling and powerful offering.
About MODERN MIMES: MODERN MIMES began as a duo in 2016 with Arianie and Ernesto blending styles of PORTISHEAD, NINE INCH NAILs, SEVENDUST, and LACUNA COIL. The duo performed locally in their hometown of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and landed the Riptide Music Festival alongside WEEZER, SILVERSUN PICKUPS and many more. It was in 2018 that they were joined by drummer Justin Perez from New Orleans, Louisiana, and became the three-piece they are today.
German heavy metal icons HELLOWEEN will be inducted into the Metal Hall Of Fame! The ceremony will take place on stage on May 20th during the band’s performance at Terminal 5 in New York City.
“HELLOWEEN has helped establish the origins of the power metal genre,” says Metal Hall Of Fame Founder/CEO, Pat Gesualdo. “Power metal is such an important part of the heavy metal community as well. We are proud to induct HELLOWEEN into the Metal Hall Of Fame and have them to help represent the power metal genre and all its fans throughout the world.”
Comments HELLOWEEN founding guitarist, Michael Weikath, “It’s truly an honor to be inducted into the Metal Hall Of Fame! Being listed next to some of the biggest bands in rock and metal makes us very proud and is rewarding our work as ‘The Ambassadors Of Power And Melodic Metal’ for the last four decades.”
HELLOWEEN will return to US and Canadian stages beginning this weekend as part of their ongoing United Forces world tour alongside supporting special guests, HammerFall. The trek will commence on May 13th in Dallas, Texas and wind its way through a total of thirteen cities, the journey drawing to a close on June 3rd in San Francisco, California. Fans can expect an epic night of HELLOWEEN hits spanning the band’s legacy as well as tunes from their latest album, Helloween, marking the first time tracks from the album will be performed live for fans in the US and Canada.
Tickets are on sale now. Secure yours today at THIS LOCATION. See all confirmed dates below.
HELLOWEEN w/ HammerFall: 5/13/2023 The Bomb Factory – Dallas, TX 5/16/2023 Jannus Live – St. Petersburg, FL 5/18/2023 The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD 5/20/2023 Terminal 5 – New York, NY 5/21/2023 The Palladium – Worcester, MA 5/23/2023 History – Toronto, ON 5/24/2023 Royal Oak Music Hall – Royal Oak, MI 5/26/2023 The Riviera – Chicago, IL 5/27/2023 The Fillmore – Minneapolis, MN 5/30/2023 Ogden Theatre – Denver, CO 6/01/2023 Brooklyn Bowl – Las Vegas, NV 6/02/2023 YouTube Theater – Los Angeles, CA 6/03/2023 The Warfield – San Francisco, CA
Often referred to as the “Fathers Of Power Metal,” and known as one of the most influential European heavy metal bands, HELLOWEEN has released sixteen studio albums, three live albums, three EPs, and thirty singles. The band has fourteen gold and six platinum records and have sold over ten-million records worldwide. HELLOWEEN are known as one of the “Big Four” of the power metal genre, along with Blind Guardian, Sabaton, and DragonForce and has performed at festivals and concerts alongside Iron Maiden, David Lee Roth, KISS, Megadeth, and Guns N’ Roses, among countless others.
The Metal Hall Of Fame is dedicated to forever enshrining the iconic musicians and music industry executives responsible for making hard rock and heavy metal music what it is today. Their contribution to the genre is invaluable, and they continue to inspire fans throughout the world, from generation to generation.
The Annual Metal Hall Of Fame Celebrity Gala is held every January in California. As a non-profit organization, all proceeds from Metal Hall Of Fame events bring free music programs to help special needs children and wounded veterans. The Metal Hall Of Fame voting process is derived by fans of all genres of hard rock and heavy metal, along with the Metal Hall Of Fame voting committee. Fans can cast their vote all year round for their favorite artists, bands, producers, and music industry executives via the Metal Hall of Fame website: metalhalloffame.org.
It is with heavy hearts that KIX have announced their retirement from performing live. Lead singer, Steve Whiteman made the announcement from the stage at M3 Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion on May 7. Watch Steve’s announcement here.
KIX’s final performance ever is set for September 17 at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD. “KIX…Walkin’ Away, The Final Show” will see the original band members Steve Whiteman, Brian Forsythe, Ronnie Younkins, Jimmy Chalfant, and longtime bassist Mark Schenker take the stage for the very last time. The night will also include some very special guests. Tickets for the show are on sale now HERE.
“We wanted to do this show for our fans,” says Steve. “We owe a lot to them for their never-ending support over our long 45-year career. It was tempting to just fade away and stop booking gigs and ride off into the sunset, but we wanted our fans to be part of a local farewell show and give them a chance to see the band one last time.”
Read more in Steve’s interview with Metal Edge Magazine, who broke the news wide to the rock ‘n’ community on Monday May 8th.
KIX formed in Hagerstown, Maryland in 1978 and have enjoyed a lasting 45-year career as one of hard rock’s most notable groups. The band’s retirement signifies the end of an era as KIX was one of the last touring bands from the 80’s rock scene who were still at the top of their game. Highly respected by fans, peers, and critics, KIX is deservingly very proud of their long legacy.
In typical Steve style, he concludes, “I just want everyone to end up on their feet and celebrate all the good times we’ve had over the years. It’s a party and you are all invited!”
Australian hard rockers BIG RED FIRE TRUCK have released their new single “Love Bite“. The song is from their upcoming EP Trouble InParadisewhich is out on August 4th, 2023.
The band comments: ” ‘Love Bite’ is a personal reflection of my experiences in the music industry and its comparison to the highs and lows of a place like Vegas. It’s easy to get caught up in the glittering facade of success and become fixated on the idea of making it big. I read an article recently that helped me come to realise that the industry is in fact a lot like a casino – a few win big, a few even win small and those that don’t are kicked to the curb and left to fend for themselves. This song is a reminder to myself and others to enjoy the journey, no matter what the outcome may be.”
About BIG RED FIRE TRUCK: BIG RED FIRE TRUCK began in 2016 as a project by Digby to write some fun heavy metal and hard rock songs and fulfil his need to hear new music in the style of his beloved bands. Taking inspiration from the likes of VAN HALEN, RECKLESS LOVE, THE DARKNESS, AEROSMITH, SUM 41, and CRAZY LIXX, the quartet pay homage to previous generations of hard rock while delivering their own distinctive character.
BIG RED FIRE TRUCK Are: Digby (Guitar and Lead Vocals) Ben Frank (Guitar) Pete Grant (Drums and Vocals) Nick Frazier (Bass)
Canadian psychedelic heavy rock trio TUMBLE, will be celebrating the release of their debut EPLady Cadaver on Sunday May 14th at Handlebar Toronto, ON, Canada. Bringing groovy riffs, high-energy rhythms and drum solos, TUMBLE‘s new offering delivers a vintage rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
“Thrilled to unleash these two heavy hitters into the wild for all you hard rock lovers. I hope you play these songs LOUD, and enjoy listening to them as much as we enjoyed recording them. We’ve only just begun… turn on, tune in, and TUMBLE.” – (Liam Deak, Guitarist/Vocalist)
“Lady Cadaver’”, explain TUMBLE, “is about the big bad trip… sometimes surreal but not always imaginary, while ‘The Plague’ is a psychedelic heavy rock instrumental for your hip shakin’, head banging pleasure.”
The opener is a catchy track with wide spread appeal, combining rhythmic instrumentation with guitar licks and giving their percussionist the spotlight. An immersive experience is found in the instrumental track “The Plague”. Leaning into the heavier side of the band’s sound, this song dives into the otherworldly with alluring guitar leads and eerie sounds before building into a high-speed multi-textural frenzy.
Track Listing:
Lady Cadaver
The Plague
About TUMBLE: TUMBLE is a power trio inspired by the heavy bands of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Their retro hard rock/psychedelic sound is influenced by bands such as BUDGIE, BLUE CHEER, CACTUS, MC5, PENTAGRAM and THE GROUNDHOGS. TUMBLE formed in Toronto, ON, in early 2022. They started out cutting their teeth in the city’s open mic circuit, and quickly began gathering the attention of the local music scene. By the end of 2022, TUMBLE was opening for bands such as CROWN LANDS, ECSTATIC VISION, and WITCHROT.
In January 2023, they caught the attention of legendary Canadian-rock musician/producer, Ian Blurton who agreed to spend a day recording with the band in his studio, ProGold. He managed to capture the band’s live energy, raw power, and ferocious attack in the studio, which resulted in Tumble’s debut EP Lady Cadaver, set to be self-released on May 5th, 2023.
Credits: Produced by Ian Blurton and TUMBLE. Recorded/Mixed by Ian Blurton at ProGold. Mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege. Artwork by Leesa Westwood.
Here are three examples of an album cover showing a woman’s face behind a see-through cloth. I’m certain there’s more out there. I believe this idea of an album cover needs to retire. For good. Please. Stop.
The Rolling Stones – Goats Head Soup (1973)
I’ll give The Rolling Stones a pass due to my thinking this was the first time this idea was used for an album cover. I could be wrong. Besides, it’s The Rolling Stones.
Scorpions – Rock Believer (2022)
C’mon Scorpions. This album cover of RockBeliever is so bad it’s the reason why I didn’t buy the physical CD. I didn’t want to see it laying around my other CDs that have quality album art. Besides, I listen to Rock Believer on Spotify.
Halestorm – Back From The Dead (2022)
I’ll bet that Halestorm and Scorpions never expected to have nearly the same album cover released in the SAME YEAR!! Some people might say that’s glass covering over the face of Lzzy Hale. Is it Lzzy Hale though? Hard to tell maybe, with the violent screaming face. Anyways, I believe this is cloth covering her face. I always felt the Halestorm debut album cover art from 2009 was bizarre and cringey; yet this album cover takes the prize for unoriginal disaster.
Thank you for reading my semi-useless rant. Please feel free to comment! Metal Be Thy Name. – Stone
We are very excited to announce the Thicker Than Blood US Tour w/ special guest LivingColour. Pre-sale tickets for all dates are now available at https://extreme-band.com/ (Use code SIX) 👊
Come celebrate this album with us. It’s been way too long & we can’t wait to see you.
“The album “A Matter of Time” shows where Alase is heading towards musically. We are already working on new music and this album leads the way to our new paths.
Compared to our debut album Vastaus, A Matter of Time is more versatile and progressive. In a way it is more mature but we also took more musical risks with its material. We even threw in a couple of tracks that go outside the genre of metal music but they still sound like Alase. Those songs also contain more electronic sounds which is a new thing for us.
Softer parts on the album are very soft but the heavier parts at their heaviest get really crushing and technical. When it comes to musicianship, this album contains the most demanding stuff that we have so far done.
Besides five previously unheard tracks, the album contains four tracks that were released as singles and music videos. Those songs represent the album pretty well but don’t tell the whole story. If you like bands Katatonia, Haken, VOLA and Sleep Token, this album might work for you!”
Los Angeles-born heavy metal icons ALCATRAZZ will release their new studio album, Take NoPrisoners, via Silver Lining Music on May 19th.
ALCATRAZZ is determined to make up for lost time, roaring forwards at warp factor ten to deliver Take No Prisoners, their sixth studio album and the third in three years. Comprised of ten cracking, charismatic tracks, with each containing the unique fusion of classic American rock with the full grain hard-rocking attitude of British heavy metal, Take No Prisonerssees ALCATRAZZ energetically soaring and exploring melodic progression with road-warrior riffs. “Little Viper” rides a scything guitar into a thunderous, Dio-like assault, whilst the band also show their calmer, more expansive side with the epic “Strangers,” but when an album finishes at the burn point of “Bring On The Rawk,” there can be no question that ALCATRAZZ’s collective boot is repeatedly kicking serious ass!
Comprised of Doogie White (vocals), Joe Stump (guitars), Jimmy Waldo (keyboards), Gary Shea (bass), and Larry Paterson (drums), with Giles Lavery and Waldo producing, Take No Prisoners is a loudly, and proudly classic rock album which draws on the ALCATRAZZ traditions of technically excellent screaming guitars, thunderous rhythm, and the sort of vocals and overall aura that evoke prime Dio and Rainbow. And of course, a primed and fully tuned-up ALCATRAZZ, whose career is fast taking on Benjamin Button proportions.
Take No Prisoners will be released on digipak CD, 12” Black vinyl, digital download, streaming and special D2C bundles. Preorders are available at THIS LOCATION.
ALCATRAZZ: Jimmy Waldo – keyboards Gary Shea – bass Doogie White – lead vocals Joe Stump – guitar Larry Paterson – drums
April 11, 2023, Eureka, Calif. – Mr. Bungle, who venture out on their first post-pandemic tour dates this May as part of the Ipecac Recordings’ Geek Show, have added an eastern swing to their slate of 2023 outings, with new performances added for several cities including New York, Boston, and Toronto.
The dates, which mark the band’s first shows on the East Coast (with the exception of New York City) in 23 years, find Mr. Bungle once again featuring their The Raging Wrath of the Easter Bunny Demo line-up (Mike Patton, Trevor Dunn, Trey Spruance, Scott Ian and Dave Lombardo).
Tickets for the newly announced performances are on-sale this Friday at 10 am est. Joining Mr. Bungle for the September outings is Battles, reuniting Patton and Dunn with their Tomahawk bandmate, John Stanier.
Ipecac Geek Show featuring Mr. Bungle, Melvins and Spotlights:
May 10 Pomona, CA Fox Theater May 11 Los Angeles, CA Palladium May 13 Las Vegas, NV Sick New World Festival May 14 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues May 16 Denver, CO Mission Ballroom May 17 Salt Lake City, UT Union Event Center May 19 Seattle, WA Showbox May 20 Seattle, WA Showbox May 21 Portland, OR Crystal Ballroom May 23 Oakland, CA Fox Theater May 24 Oakland, CA Fox Theater
Mr. Bungle with special guests, Battles:
September 5 Baltimore, MD Rams Head Live September 6 Philadelphia, PA The Fillmore September 8 New York, NY Terminal 5 September 11 Boston, MA Roadrunner September 12 Montreal, QC MTelus September 13 Toronto, ON History September 15 Detroit, MI The Fillmore Detroit
Photo credit: Buzz Osborne
Mr. Bungle was formed in an impoverished lumber and fishing town by a trio of curious, volatile teenagers. Trey Spruance, Mike Patton and Trevor Dunn beget the amorphous “band” in 1985 up in Humboldt County, Calif., sifting through a variety of members until 1988 when drummer Danny Heifetz and saxophonist Bär McKinnon joined the group. In 1989, Mr. Bungle signed to Warner Bros. Records. No one really knows how this happened and it remains a complete mystery that even the algorithms of the internet can’t decode. Up until 2000 they released three albums (Mr. Bungle in 1991, Disco Volante in 1995 and California in 1999), toured a good portion of the Western hemisphere and avoided any sort of critical acclaim.
Some argue that the band subsequently broke up but there is also no proof of this. What is true is that they took 20 years off from performing under said moniker while they pursued various other musics that, in contrast, paid the rent. In 2020, a different iteration of Mr. Bungle emerged, pairing the original trio of Dunn, Patton and Spruance with Anthrax’s Scott Ian and former Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo for a proper release of the Eureka-bred band’s unreleased demo, The Raging Wrath of the Easter Bunny.
Heavy metal icons ARMORED SAINT will return to the stage this August as direct support to W.A.S.P.! The 40th Never Stops World Tour 2023 begins August 4th in San Luis Obispo, California and winds its way through nearly three dozen cities, coming to a close September 16th in Los Angeles, California.
Comments vocalist John Bush: “Hello SAINTloyalists! We’re happy to inform you guys that, due to the overwhelming response we got on the W.A.S.P./SAINT tour we did last Winter, we decided to do another leg this late Summer/early Fall: The W.A.S.P./ARMORED SAINT 40th Anniversary tour part 2! This is going to happen in August and September. We will be doing about thirty more shows. The plan is to go to cities we didn’t do on the last run with a few exceptions of some places where we will be returning. There will be some cities that ARMORED SAINT hasn’t played in many, many years as well as some we’ve never played in our history! We’re also happy to be going to Canada including Vancouver, which we haven’t played since 1985. Too bad it won’t be hockey season. It’s gonna be awesome! Thanks as always for all your support, and who knows, maybe we can bring this tour to some other continents on planet earth. Thanks also to [W.A.S.P.]’s Blackie [Lawless] and the guys for making it happen again. Stay healthy and metal!”
Tickets go on sale this Friday, April 14th at 10:00am local time. See all confirmed dates below.
ARMORED SAINT w/ W.A.S.P.: 8/04/2023 Fremont Theater – San Luis Obispo, CA 8/05/2023 Hard Rock Live – Wheatland, CA 8/07/2023 Roseland – Portland, OR 8/08/2023 Vogue Theater – Vancouver, BC 8/10/2023 Moore Theater – Seattle, WA 8/11/2023 Podium – Spokane, WA 8/12/2023 Revolution Concert Hall – Garden City, ID 8/13/2023 The Depot – Salt Lake City, UT 8/15/2023 Steelhouse – Omaha, NE 8/16/2023 The Fillmore Minneapolis – Minneapolis, MN 8/17/2023 The Rust Belt – Moline, IL 8/18/2023 RCU Theater – Eau Claire, WI 8/19/2023 Horizon Events Center – Clive, IA 8/20/2023 Hard Rock Live – Gary, IN 8/22/2023 GLC Live @ 20 Monroe – Grand Rapids, MI 8/23/2023 Egyptian Room – Indianapolis, IN 8/24/2023 Capitol Theater – Wheeling, WV 8/25/2023 Sherman Theater – Stroudsburg, PA 8/26/2023 Hammerstein Ballroom – New York, NY 8/27/2023 Hampton Beach Casino – Hampton, NH 8/29/2023 Dome @ Oakdale – Wallingford, CT 8/30/2023 The Fillmore – Philadelphia, PA 8/31/2023 Packard Music Hall – Warren, OH 9/01/2023 Danforth Music Hall – Toronto, ON 9/03/2023 Mtellus – Montreal, QC 9/05/2023 Andrew J Brady Music Center – Cincinnati, OH 9/07/2023 Graceland – Memphis, TN 9/08/2023 The Hall – Little Rock, AR 9/09/2023 Southside Ballroom – Dallas, TX 9/10/2023 Criterion – Oklahoma City, OK 9/13/2023 Rialto Theater – Tucson, AZ 9/14/2023 House Of Blues – San Diego, CA 9/16/2023 The Palladium – Los Angeles, CA
ARMORED SAINT released their Symbol OfSalvation Live CD/DVD in 2021 via Metal Blade Records. The release came in celebration of the seminal album’s 30th anniversary. A record vocalist John Bush refers to as the band’s “cornerstone record,” Symbol Of Salvation Live is a combination live album and video of the band playing the album in its entirety at New York City’s famed Gramercy Theatre during their 2018 tour. It captures the power, diversity, and peerless songwriting contained within. “I felt like showing Symbol… in another light was a great homage to the record itself,” states bassist Joey Vera. “Also, having all the fans be there and part of that event is a way for us to say, ‘Thank you!’ For, without them, we can’t do any of this in the first place.”
Preview and purchase Symbol Of Salvation Live at THIS LOCATION.
ARMORED SAINT: John Bush – vocals Jeff Duncan – guitars Phil Sandoval – guitars Joey Vera – bass Gonzo Sandoval – drums
All Five Atlantic Albums Newly Remastered by Andy Pearce! Includes Replica Tour Book, Poster, Bumper Sticker & More! With (2) RATT “Best of” records gone platinum plus over the years, this is by far the coolest representation of the records all on vinyl 6/2023. To be released by BMG.
“The Atlantic Years” limited edition box set, celebrating RATT’s massively successful period where all five of their studio albums were certified GOLD, PLATINUM or MULTI-PLATINUM (for combined album sales of over 20 MILLION).
The LP set includes all five albums remastered on 180g black vinyl, plus rare “Nobody Rides forFree” 7″ singlewhich is a rare track from the film PointBreak (Exclusive to the LP Box), 12-page replica tour book (featuring rare and never-before-seen photos from Ratt’s personal archives), 11″x17″ wanted poster, bumper sticker, replica backstage pass, and guitar pick in a custom lift-top box.
All albums feature the classic lineup of Stephen Pearcy (vocals), Warren DeMartini (guitars), Robbin Crosby (guitars), Juan Croucier (bass), and Bobby Blotzer (drums). Formed in Los Angeles in 1981 by frontman lead singer songwriter Stephen Pearcy.
Limited to 4,000 Units in North America All Five Atlantic Records Albums: Out of the Cellar (1984), Invasion of Your Privacy (1985), DancingUndercover (1986), Reach for the Sky (1988) & Detonator (1990)
“Dancing Undercover” on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1987 – “Reach for the Sky” on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1988 – “Detonator” on Vinyl for the First Time Since 1990
I’m thrilled that Guardians Of The Galaxy Volume3 is hitting up theaters on May 5th. Yes, I’m a fan. I’ve watched the first trailer for the final installment of this amazing franchise at least a dozen times already. Marvel Studios is mandatory escapism for me.
The Rainbow classic cover song “Since You’ve Been Gone” (from 1979’s Down To Earth) is played throughout the trailer for Guardians Of The Galaxy Volume 3. I’m ecstatic over this! I’ve had this song on my Spotify playlist for a long time and have forever loved this song. Kudos to Rainbow and especially Graham Bonnet for this immense return to worldwide exposure; it’s been long overdue! For all the fact nerds out there, this song was written and performed back in 1976 by Russ Ballard.
In case you’ve been living on the dark side of the moon this past week, legendary guitarist Mick Mars was sued by Mötley Crüe and he thus counter sued. The short story is: Mötley Crüe believes Mick Mars quit the band once he quit touring. Mick Mars believed he never quit the band and only resigned from touring due to health reasons. Ugh. It’s a hot mess. Just google this story for all the mud slinging details. If I’m picking sides, based on what I’ve researched, I’m in the Mick Mars camp.
“This is a journey, an adventure, and a mission.” – Hawthorne Heights
April 7, 2023, Dayton – Hawthorne Heights, who brought the inaugural year of “Is For Lovers Festival” to three cities (Wichita, Denver and Cincinnati) in 2022, have expanded the Summer extravaganza to eight locations for 2023: Hawaii (April 29), Lake Tahoe (June 24), Denver (July 22), Manteo, N.C. (July 29), Council Bluffs (Aug. 19 & 20), Cincinnati (Sept. 9), Pelham, Tenn. (Sept. 10), and Mansfield, Mass. (Sept. 17).
“In year one, we got to go to a few of our favorite cities, with bands that are our friends, and some bands that we simply love,” explains JT Woodruff, Hawthorne Heights’ vocalist and co-curator of the “Is For Lovers Festival.” “We want to give fans an inclusionary place to go that features a wide variety of bands from all walks of life, and we want to do it with a smile on our face, because we have chosen to work with people who we love and respect. The most important part for us is to make sure that the fan experience is equal to the band experience. We just want everyone to have fun, and have an easy day together.”
Artists, which vary from location to location, include Jimmy Eat World, Thrice, Alkaline Trio, The Story So Far, 3OH!3, Bayside, Underoath, State Champs, Mayday Parade, Thursday, and more. See below for line-ups by location.
“Is For Lovers Festival” also makes a point of incorporating local businesses, both via the food options on site but also featuring an adjacent marketplace and activities area showcasing local makers and creators. There will be onsite activations designed to give the fans a fun and unique way to enjoy their time in between seeing their favorite artists. Back for the second year will be a coffee booth, which is partnered with a local coffee shop, and helped run by the band. JT adds: “I had a lot of fun masquerading as a barista last year and serving Hawthorne Heights themed drinks like ‘Oat-Hio is for Lovers, which was a crowd pleaser… so why not run it back?”
Tickets for all dates are on-sale with VIP options available simultaneously. Visit Isforloversfestival.com for additional info and ticketing links.
“Is For Lovers Festival” dates:
April 29 – Hawaii Is For Lovers – Wet n’ Wild Water Park June 24 – Lake Tahoe Is For Lovers – Outdoor Arena at Harveys July 22 – Colorado Is For Lovers – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre July 29 – OBX Is For Lovers – Roanoke Island Festival Park August 19 & 20 – Iowa Is For Lovers – Harrah’s Council Bluffs September 9 – Ohio Is For Lovers – PNC at Riverbend Amphitheatre September 10 – Tennessee Is For Lovers – The Caverns September 17 – Massachusetts Is For Lovers – Xfinity Center
“Hawaii Is For Lovers”: Bayside, Mayday Parade, State Champs, Hawthorne Heights, Emery
“OBX Is For Lovers”: Thrice, Bayside, Hawthorne Heights, 3OH!3, Four Year Strong, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, and Frontside.
“Iowa Is For Lovers”: The Story So Far, Thrice, Bayside, Mayday Parade, Silverstein, Anberlin, Hawthorne Heights, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Spitalfield, The Forecast, and Proper.
“Ohio Is For Lovers”: Jimmy Eat World, Alkaline Trio, Underoath, State Champs, Saosin, Hawthorne Heights, The Starting Line, Relient K, KennyHoopla, Four Year Strong, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Spitalfield, Motherfolk, The Missed, Sign Language, Slutbomb, Skye Wallace, Proper., Nox Novacula, Knavery, Life In Idle, Xanny Stars, and Lost Henry.
“Tennessee Is For Lovers”: Underoath, Bayside, Mayday Parade, Thursday, State Champs, Hawthorne Heights, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Spitalfield, Winona Fighter, Proper., Khamsin, Skye Wallace, and a special acoustic performance by Hawthorne Heights in The Cave.
Line-ups for “Colorado Is For Lovers,” “Lake Tahoe Is For Lovers,” and “Massachusetts Is For Lovers” will be revealed soon.
Photo credit: Courtney Kiara
Hawthorne Heights formed in Dayton, Ohio in 2001. The band has released seven albums over the past 22 years: The Silence in Black and White (2004), If Only You Were Lonely (2006), Fragile Future (2008), Skeletons (2010), Zero (2013), Bad Frequencies (2018) and The Rain Just Follows Me (2021). Alternative Press dubbed them “the kings of writing knockout choruses,” Rolling Stone hailed them as the “grassroots chart kings,” in a nod to the band’s many impressive Billboard debuts including four of their seven albums in the Top 100, and New Noisedescribed their music as “effortless joy.” Hawthorne Heights is JTWoodruff (vocals/guitar), Matt Ridenour (bass), Mark McMillon (guitar), and Chris Popadak (drums).
Ripple Muisc have released Nebula Ripples, a compilation album to benefit NEBULA bassist Tom Davies.
Recently, Tom was diagnosed with Leukemia and is now fighting the disease with all his strength. Although NEBULA had not previously recorded with Ripple Music, everyone in the stoner rock scene knows of their powerful music. When Todd Severin, CEO of Ripple Music, heard of Tom’s fight ahead, he reached out, wanting to do anything Ripple could do to support him, and the result is this compilation.
Todd asked Tom which Ripple bands he loved playing with, and his response forms the basis of this compilation. To top it off, Tom contributed one of his own unreleased tracks to kick the compilation into gear, which features lead guitar work from Joe Hoare of ORANGE GOBLIN. Also included is a special sneak preview track from the upcoming album by KIND.
All proceeds from this album will be donated directly to Tom to help him fight his battle against cancer.
In Tom’s words, “Back in January I ended up in the ER with kidney stones which was followed by viral pneumonia and Bell’s Palsy and eventually led to me being diagnosed with a rare form of high risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
As it’s a very complex form, I’ve had one round of intense chemotherapy so far and am facing many more treatments and hospital visits for the fight of my life. On a positive note, my spirit is strong and has been strengthened by the overwhelming and incredible outpouring of support from the community.”
Tracklisting: Anaesthesia Amnesia -Tom Davies Cosmic Ark – Mos Generator Buffalo Chips – Yawning Man What Are They Trying to Sell – DoctoR DooM Into the Shredder – Ape Machine Drifting off to Storybook Deth – Fatso Jetson Frequencies – Steak Fat Rats – Roadsaw Favorite One – KIND The Song’s at the Bottom of the Bottle – Wino
April 28, 2023 sees horror punk act DARKER DAYS release their much-awaited, first full-length album “The Burying Point”on Fiend Force Records, licensed by Massacre Records!
Hailing from the Halloween capitol Salem, Massachusetts, the band poured everything they had into this record and pulled inspiration from some of their favorite bands: AFI, The Misfits or Blitzkid. Lyrically, DARKER DAYS touched on things like their favorite horror movies as well as real-life hardships. Needless to say, that the dark history of their hometown Salem and all of New England – with Nathaniel Hawthorne in Salem, H.P. Lovecraft in Providence and Stephen King in Bangor – along with the bleak countryside had a big influence on them as well.
Today, DARKER DAYS are premiering a first single taken of their upcoming debut, feat. TB Monstrosity of BLITZKID! T.B. Monstrosity is the co-singer and songwriter of Horror Punk legendes Blitzkid, probably the most popular band in the genre besides the forefathers The Misfits. Blitzkid and Darker Days have been friends for years, so this collaboration has naturally grown out of their shared history. TB’s unique voice gives the song its very own atmosphere and harmonizes impressively with the melancholy of the track and Darker Days singer Mason’s vocals. Both the classic horror theme and the musical realization, as well as the guest appearance of the Blitzkid singer make “1818” an instant hit in the horror punk community.
Watch the new DARKER DAYS video for “1818”, now premiering HERE
“1818 is an ode to the work of one of our favorite authors Mary Shelly- being told from the perspective of ‘Frankenstein’s monster’ and the feelings he has of wanting to find happiness even though the world views him as a monster“, the band comments.
DARKER DAYS are: Mason Eaton – Vocals Nick Sullivan – Guitars Travis Hunter – Guitars Ron Bailey – Bass Randy Mason – Drums
Their upcoming album “The Burying Point” was produced by Chris Curran and Kyle Blamy, and was mixed and mastered by Chris Curran. Slated for a release on April 28, 2023, the album pre-sale is available at THIS LOCATION!
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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