Finland's Where's My Bible release their long-awaited second full-length studio album, Kave, today (September 11th), via Inverse Records.
Kave is a blackened death metal album that combines brutal sounds with beautiful melodies. This multi-layered work features ancient instruments and uses Nordic and Finnish mythologies as metaphors. The album follows a shamanistic cycle, beginning in the darkness of night and culminating in the ominous flames of dawn. It delivers a heavy northern atmosphere and explores the darkness of the human mind. Where's My Bible introduces a new approach to mythology and folkloristic metal.
Vocalist Jussi Matilainen comments: "'Kave' was the first track completed for the new album. It immediately became the centerpiece and highlight of the record. In terms of the story, we find ourselves in a moment of a full moon at midnight, where the Kapeet (Kave) perfectly draws the moon in the sky. It’s also a turning point before we plunge into complete darkness.
The song's message is powerful: if you focus only on searching for the lost sunlight, you might miss the light that illuminates your path at night. The story encourages us to be open to life's possibilities and to see the solutions that are right in front of us. So remember to keep your mind and eyes open."
Check out the official video for "Kave" below. Pick up the album here.
Tracklist:
"Yö"
"Màni"
"Fenrir"
"Suden Hetki"
"Creator of Abyss"
"Waves"
"Musta Kuu"
"Kave"
"Deyr Sjalfr It Sama"
"Ghost From The Past"
"Rahko"
"Runo"
"Sòl"
"Aamu"
Gearing up to unleash their new album, Digital Cordyceps, via Megaforce Records in 2024 (release date TBD), Narcotic Wasteland - fronted by ex-Nile guitarist/vocalist Dallas Toler-Wade along with drummer Joseph Howard (Fields Of Elysium), Neuromorphic) and bassist Kenji Tsunami (Tegmentum) - unveil their new music video for the single, "Barbarian", released earlier this summer prior to their 2024 summer tour dates that were in honor of Wade's 50th birthday and the 10th anniversary of Narcotic Wasteland's self-titled debut album.
Directed by Narcotic Wasteland bassist Kenji Tsunami (Tsunami Films), the video showcases the sheer death thrash force of the band in the studio and live.
Dallas Toler-Wade comments on the track: "For me, 'Barbarian' is a prime example of me doing the thing I love and that defines me the most. Continuously striving to improve my craft as a musician and a songwriter. But also the overall message of this song. Live!!! Be free!!! Find your own path!!! Question everything!!! And also we don't need politicians or religion to shape our moral centers. In fact, It seems they distort the truth every chance they get. This whole album cycle has seemed to have this recurring theme about the narcissistic oligarchy that we have all fallen victim to. I Dallas Toler- Wade the barbarian will fight this mockery until I leave the land of the living, and even after that, my powerful voice will echo through the halls of time!!! Because I am a barbarian!!!"
Stream/download the single here, and watch the music video below:
In additional news, Narcotic Wasteland will be performing tour dates with Pyrexia, as well as a date at SwarmFest in Tampa Bay, FL.
Fans Of The Dark recently announced the release of their new studio album, Video, out October 11 via Frontiers Music Srl. Today, the band share the official music video for new single, "Meet Me On The Corner". Pre-order the album here, and watch the new clip below:
Video is the third chapter of Swedish act Fans Of The Dark, an exciting new band formed in 2020 by Freddie Allen, drummer and main songwriter, and lead vocalist Alex Falk, when they reconnected a few years after high school, with a vision to create a band which would mix the melodies and the approach of classic and melodic rock.
Their debut album Fans of the Dark, released in 2021, attracted the attention of Frontiers Records and led to the band signing a multi-album deal. Their second album Suburbia was released in 2022, and it was followed by the band’s first live show at Frontiers Rock Fest in Stockholm the same year. By then, they were permanently joined by guitarist Oscar Bromvall and bass player Rickard Gramfors.
After releasing an EP of four cover songs, the band went into writing mode once more, and the result is Video, the band’s third album, one of the most exciting things you'll hear emerging from the fruitful melodic rock in Sweden, showcasing a tight, inventive musical approach with outstanding vocals.
Video tracklisting:
"Meet Me On The Corner"
"Let's Go Rent A Video"
"The Neon Phantom"
"Christine"
"The Wall"
"Find Your Love"
"In The Bay Of Blood"
"Tomorrow Is Another Day"
"The Dagger Of Tunis"
"Savage Streets"
Swedish sleaze metallers, Smoking Snakes, have released a video for "Rocking To The Morning Light", the latest single from their debut album, Danger Zone, out now via Frontiers. Order the album here, and watch the clip below:
Smoking Snakes are known for their high-energy performances and a sound that pays homage to the golden era of rock while infusing a contemporary edge. With Danger Zone, the band aims to solidify their place in the sleaze metal genre and captivate audiences around the globe. The album was produced by Jakob Herrmann, known for his work with acclaimed acts such as Anthrax, In Flames, and Machine Head.
Tracklisting:
"Angels Calling"
"Sole Survivors"
"Run For Your Life"
"Lady Luck"
"Excited"
"Restless & Wild"
"Sorrow, Death And Pain"
"There Is No Tomorrow"
"Who Am I"
"We Are Alive"
"Rocking To The Morning Light"
Oomph! have released a music video for "Soll das Liebe Sein?" ("Should This Be Love?"), featured on their 14th album, Richter und Henker, released last September via Napalm Records. Watch below.
OOMPH! are stronger than ever in 2024 and the new lineup around CR4P, The Schulz and Flux is bursting with energy and joy of playing. From big festival shows to intimate headline sets, the Neue Deutsche Härte pioneers delight their fans with a perfect mix of old hits and songs from the new album, Richter und Henker.
In the new music video, the band revue the festival summer with tens of thousands of enthusiastic fans with live recordings of their show from the M’era Luna Festival before celebrating 35 years of OOMPH! in October! Tour of Germany is on.
Says OOMPH!: "What remains when the first stormy infatuation has flown away and everyday life in a long-term relationship wins the upper hand? If maybe you're still together just out of habit or addiction, you have nothing left to say or the relationship has even become toxic? At the latest then it will be high time to hit the brakes and ask yourself: 'Is this supposed to be love?'"
The band adds about the video: "We mostly play the song as the opener, and the video we shot with Dirk "The Pixeleye" Behlau during our show at this year's M'era Luna shows how powerful and energetic OOMPH! Concerts in the new cast are from the first second and what a deep connection there is between us and our audience!"
Richter und Henker is available in the following formats:
- Deluxe Box, including 1 CD 6 pages Digisleeve, Hangman Block, 2 pencils, socks, tote bag, A6 photo card (strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide) – Napalm Records Store exclusive
- 2 LP Die Hard Gatefold Marbled Transparent Red/Black Vinyl incl slipmat, 12 inch booklet and record butler (strictly limited to 200 copies worldwide) – Napalm Records Store exclusive
- 2 LP Gatefold Gold Vinyl (strictly limited to 1000 copies) – GSA Retail exclusive
- 2 LP Gatefold Black Vinyl
- 1 CD 6 pages Digisleeve
- Digital Album
"Wem die Stunde Schlägt"
"Richter und Henker"
"Soll das Liebe Sein?"
"Nur Ein Mensch"
"Schrei nur Schrei"
"Nichts wird mehr Gut"
"Sag Jetzt Einfach Nichts"
"Es ist Nichts, Wie es Scheint"
"Wo die Angst Gewinnt"
"All die Jahre"
"Wut feat. Joachim Witt"
"Ein Kleines Bisschen Glück"
British heavy metal legends JUDAS PRIEST have shared a professionally filmed video of the song "Rapid Fire", recorded on July 21 at the Release festival in Athens, Greece. Check out the clip below.
JUDAS PRIEST recently announced leg two of its "Invincible Shield" tour with special guest SABATON. The all-time greats will take over new markets in North America this fall with an additional 23 performances.
Produced by Live Nation, the tour kicks off on September 13 at Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec and makes stops in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Omaha, Nebraska; Spokane, Washington; Portland, Oregon; Los Angeles, California; Phoenix, Arizona and more before wrapping up with three shows in Texas on October 22, 24 and 26.
JUDAS PRIEST kicked off the spring 2024 U.S. leg of the "Invincible Shield" world tour on April 18 at Toyota Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford, Connecticut.
"Invincible Shield" entered the U.K. chart at No. 2, just behind Ariana Grande's "Eternal Sunshine".
Prior to "Invincible Shield"'s arrival, PRIEST's highest U.K. chart achievement was with 1980's "British Steel", which reached No. 4.
PRIEST's 2018 album "Firepower" entered the chart at No. 5.
"Invincible Shield" was JUDAS PRIEST's fifth Top 10 album, after the aforementioned "British Steel" and "Firepower", as well as 2014's "Redeemer Of Souls" (No. 6) and the 1979 live album "Unleashed In The East" (No. 10).
"Invincible Shield" landed at No. 1 in Germany, Finland, Sweden and Switzerland, as well as No. 5 in France, No. 8 in Italy and No. 16 in Australia.
In a recent interview with Elena Rosberg of Radiocast BG, Rob Halford was asked about the significance of the album title "Invincible Shield" for a band like JUDAS PRIEST. He responded: "JUDAS PRIEST has been defending the faith of heavy metal, not just the music, but everything related to heavy metal, since we began. And as we were making this record, it's my job as the lyricist to find ideas, to find expressions, to find songtitles that convey not only the music that you're making as you create an album, but to give a title, a significant title, that sends a potent message, idea that says, 'This is JUDAS PRIEST, this is our music and this is an invincible shield.' So then, I remember the day when I'm sitting at my home in Phoenix and I'm on my laptop and a pencil, a pencil and some paper writing things down. And I go, I got the word 'invincible'. And then suddenly from nowhere… This is the joy of creativity. Artists will tell you, we don't know where these things come from. You have to grab them quickly, like lightning in a bottle. And then I think of the word 'shield', and I put the two together, 'invincible shield'. Like, 'Wow, this is JUDAS PRIEST. We're an invincible shield in heavy metal, what we've been doing for so long.' And then I go, 'Wait a minute, wait a minute. All of us, every single person on the planet, has an invincible shield inside of them.' And what I mean by that is we all are gifted by God to have this never-ending well of faith, this never-ending well of hope, this never-ending well of preservation, this never-ending well of sustaining ourselves, our families, our friends. Everything that we do together comes in the form of the power of an invincible shield. So that was a bonus. That was not only the title for the music, but it was also a title for everybody."
Halford added: "All of us have an invincible shield. When you think of some of the things that each of us have, in our lives, have had a challenge. We've had a dark moment, whether it's a medical issue, whether it's work, whether it's something very, very potent. But we've survived, we've pushed through. We look back now and we go, 'How did I get through that?' That's your invincible shield. That's the power that humanity has to survive in every aspect of what that word suggests. What does survive mean? It means many, many things. So the joy of having the title of the album be so expansive was just, again, another extra blessing. So there you have it. Invincible shield for JUDAS PRIEST and invincible shield for humanity."
When Rosberg asked Rob if it is "sometimes overwhelming" to have such "a great responsibility" as a person who is conveying certain messages to a large audience, Halford replied: "Yeah, it can be. It can be. You have to find a balance. You have to find a harmony. I love the power of words. Words can do many, many things. The way you choose words, the way you put words together, they can lift you up, they can bring you solace, that can bring you, again, hope, they can bring you all of these things. They can also bring negativity, they can also bring destruction, they can bring war, they can bring political angst and disruption in separating the light from the dark, the truth from the lies, all of these things can be made together by words. I love words. I love putting words together. So when I was writing 'Panic Attack', and I'm talking about the way that social media can be used in a very potent, and sometimes [negative ways through] disinformation, conspiracy theories. All of these attitudes, all of these emotions, all of these ideas come from words. They come from people speaking, they come from people sending instant messages, writing in various forums and quorums on the Internet. So, I think deeply about things like that, and I try to convey those personal feelings and ideas into songs that are still full of joy and power and excitement and energy and good feelings. And that's a tricky thing to do, because JUDAS PRIEST isn't a political band. We're not a socially motivated band. We don't speak out too much on these types of world affairs, world events, but I thought for this record, I'm gonna take a leap of faith, because our fans are smart, our fans are intelligent. They understand this world that we live in when we talk about that side of the social media, that side of the Internet, the double-edged sword of the internet, the good, the bad, the light, the dark, the yin, the yang. And it's turned out that 'Panic Attack' has been the most rewarding song for our fans that we've made.
"So, yes, there is a responsibility," Rob continued. "There's a responsibility from your creativity to do your very best, not to accept anything just for acceptance. Work really hard. We spend an enormous amount of time making these songs because we treasure them. They're gonna be here long after we're gone. So you want to leave something that will have the power to bring joy, have the power to bring passion, excitement, energy, have the power to bring some thinking about the song. What will people think about 'Panic Attack' a hundred years from now? I think about that. [Laughs] I think so deeply about so many aspects of what we're about in JUDAS PRIEST."
Halford added: "So, yes, responsibility. The ultimate responsibility is when you're on that stage. You're on that stage, you're pouring out your heart, you're pouring out your soul in your performance, and you have a responsibility to give every part of yourself at that show."
Billy Morrison, Corey Taylor and Steve Vai have joined forces on "Incite The Watch", the new single and cutting-edge animated video from Billy's recently released solo album "The Morrison Project" via TLG / ZOID / Virgin Music Group. Today (September 10),a striking video for the song has been released. It depicts "flying superhero rockstars fighting against the corporate hordes and freeing music, creativity, and the enslaved masses!!" explains Billy. Watch the video — directed by Brett Boggs, whose credits include numerous Disney movies — below.
"Incite The Watch" is an intense, ominous rock track fueled by Taylor's gripping vocals and Vai's massive, virtuosic guitar solo. It was written by Billy, Erik Eldenius, Jeordie White and Taylor. The release of the single follows Billy's seismic No. 1 Active Rock song and smash video "Crack Cocaine" featuring Ozzy Osbourne and Steve Stevens and co-written by the three artists.
The "Incite The Watch" video was produced utilizing a revolutionary combination of artist-created character animation with a state-of-the-art application called CineTech to create AI-generated backgrounds and visual effects. This concept led to the advent of distinct, art-directed imagery on a tighter deadline. By utilizing human creativity with concept-driven CineTech imagery, the video has a unique look that matches the brilliance of the music and allows the listener to visually join the story.
Taylor said about his appearance on "Incite The Watch": "Billy and I have known each other for so many years and we've done many performances together, it was only a matter of time before we put together something original and fascinating. Alternatively, I've been a Steve Vai fan since I was 15, and never thought I'd ever get the chance to do something amazing with him. Enter the great Billy Morrison who got both Steve and I on 'Incite The Watch'! I'm so stoked to be a part of this album with so many great artists and I can't wait to see what happens next."
Added Vai: "Billy Morrison is always getting into some kind of intense and creative musical mischief, and this record is the evidence of that. When he sent me the track 'Incite', I was very eager to contribute to it. It is slamming and crushing, and the energy of the track is palpable. It's nice to be part of his mischief."
Morrison said: "The combination of Corey Taylor and Steve Vai on a Billy Morrison song is insanely exciting for me! This track started life as a piano riff from Erik Eldenius and once we had Corey's fantastic vocal on the song, there was only one man we wanted to tackle the three-key-change extra-long solo section — and luckily Steve said yes!
"'Incite' really feels like an opus — a journey. It twists and turns, hits some unexpected changes and sections and resolves into modern rock heaviness and I am extremely proud that the end result appears on 'The Morrison Project'."
"The Morrison Project" was released this past April, marking Billy's third solo album and first since 2015. The British guitarist, singer, and songwriter — primarily known as Billy Idol's rhythm guitar player for the past 15 years alongside lead guitarist Steve Stevens — has assembled an electrifying 12 songs with guest performances by Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, Corey Taylor, DMC, Al Jourgensen, Steve Vai, Steve Stevens, Linda Perry, Tommy Clufetos, John 5 and more. The album was produced by Billy, mixed by Barry Pointer and mastered by Dave Donnelly. All the songs on the album — recorded in Los Angeles at various studios — were written by Billy in collaboration with his guests.
Scorpions have released video of a full concert recorded in Berlin, Germany in 1991. Watch below.
Setlist:
"Bad Boys Running Wild"
"Hit Between The Eyes"
"I Can’t Explain"
"The Zoo"
"The Rhythm Of Love"
"Crazy World"
"Can’t Live Without You"
"Blackout"
"Dynamite"
"Lust Or Love"
"Big City Nights"
"Rock You Like A Hurricane"
Scorpions recently announced that they must cancel all upcoming date
Finnish melodic metallers, Sonata Arctica, recently released a music video for "Angel Defiled", lifted from their new album, Clear Cold Beyond, available via Atomic Fire. The band performed the song upon the "Faster Stage" at Wacken Open Air 2024. Watch professionally-filmed video below:
Watch the official "Angel Defiled" music video below:
Clear Cold Beyond is packed with strong songs and fuses the best of all periods of Sonata Arctica's multifaceted work: From high-speed anthems such as the aforementioned "First In Line" and "California" to emotion-laden tracks such as "The Best Things" and the closing title track, this record offers something for each and every Sonata Arctica fan.
Oder the album in the physical format of your choice, save it on your favourite DSP or order it digitally, here.
Clear Cold Beyond tracklisting:
"First In Line"
"California"
"Shah Mat"
"Dark Empath"
"Cure For Everything"
"A Monster Only You Can't See"
"Teardrops"
"Angel Defiled"
"The Best Things"
"Clear Cold Beyond"
Bonus Tracks (digipak + vinyl only):
"A Ballad For The Broken"
"Toy Soldiers" (Martika cover)
"California" video:
"Dark Empath" video:
"A Monster Only You Can't See" lyric video:
"First In Line":
Sonata Arctica will launch a European headline tour in September/October this year. Special guests on the whole run will be iconic Greek metallers Firewind, with German power metallers Serious Black warming up the crowds.
The lineup of the Nordic leg will be completed by Sonata Arctica's new RPM labelmates, Swedish symphonic metal act Tungsten, while Swedish power metal newcomers Final Strike will appear on the tour's opening night.
Dates:
September
11 - Norrtälje (Opalen), Sweden - Rimbo Kulturscen (with Final Strike only)
12 - Östersund, Sweden - Gamla Teatern*
13 - Trondheim, Norway - Tapperiet*
14 - Örnsköldsvik, Sweden - Nöje
Aries Descendant - an electrifying collaboration forged by the musical synergy of two virtuoso studio musicians, Jonah Weingarten and Nicklas Sonne - proudly announce the release of their debut album, From The Ashes Of Deceit, out on October 18 via Frontiers Music Srl.
A video for the new single, "Aflame The Cold" can be viewed below. Jonah Weingarten describes the new song: “Aflame the Cold” is our second single and music video and the first song we ever wrote together for Aries Descendant. This song means so much to both of us as it became the beginning of what we were to become. It personifies our sound with its hard hitting and epic orchestration, dynamic and soaring vocals, and shredding guitars.
“From The Ashes Of Deceit” is our grand statement. This album has come from a great friendship that has been formed between us as well as combined decades of experience in the music industry. Aries Descendant is all about overcoming personal struggles and turning those things into art. We are so excited to share our vision with all of you!,” continues Jonah.
Jonah Weingarten started his career with highly acclaimed international progressive metal band Pyramaze. Over the years, he has collaborated with artists such as Dave Ellefson (Megadeth), James Murphy (Testament, Death), Matt Barlow (Iced Earth), Bill Hudson (Trans-Siberian Orchestra, NorthTale), and Grammy nominated producer Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Amaranthe).
Jonah has been a full time member of Pyramaze since 2002, and in 2020 joined international cinematic symphonic metal band Catalyst Crime (Massacre Records). On top of all his work in the metal/rock worlds, Jonah is also an accomplished composer of independent films, video game soundtracks, sports team anthems, and epic trailer music.
Nicklas Sonne began his musical experience as a drummer before moving onto the guitar and ultimately becoming a singer songwriter in an array of metal and hard rock projects, starting with Defecto – created in 2010 along with Frederik Møller. Other bands include Evil Masquerade, Theory, Hank Shermann, One Machine, Waving Memories, Section A, Metallica Jam, Wasted, Omvendt Korstog and now his own self-titled project too. His long career has included international tours in places such as Japan, and opening for Metal heavyweights including Metallica and Rammstein.
United by a common vision, Jonah and Nicklas decided to embark on a groundbreaking musical journey, giving birth to the phenomenon that is Aries Descendant. This dynamic duo seamlessly fuses the evocative allure of film music with the raw power of heavy metal, creating an auditory experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.
Within the realm of Aries Descendant, audiences can anticipate colossal symphonic arrangements, adorned with grand yet gritty vocal melodies, and propelled by an unyielding rhythm section. While the combination of symphony and metal is not unprecedented, Aries Descendant elevates this fusion to uncharted heights, delivering a sonic tapestry that is unparalleled in its innovation.
Step into the world of Aries Descendant, where musical boundaries are shattered, and the convergence of genres takes on a new and awe-inspiring form. Brace yourself for an auditory odyssey that transcends expectations and leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary music.
Brutal death band Emasculator has released the official music video for "Eradication Of The Asuras”, the newest single of the band's debut EP The Disfigured And The Divine.
The Disfigured And The Divine delves into themes of the Goddess in mythology and legend, womanhood and motherhood, overcoming obstacles, justice, spirituality, the human experience, and growing into power. Vocalist Mallika Sundaramurthy delves into the concepts behind the song and how it connects to the album's overall theme.
"'Eradication Of The Asuras' is about the Hindu goddess Durga. She is known as Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of the shape-shifting buffalo demon. He has been endowed with superpowers and is almost invincible. He has gained the boon that no man may kill him - only a woman. He hungers for power and wages war on the gods and defeats them. So the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva combine their energy to create Durga. They endow her with their many powers and weapons, and she goes off to fight the demon. Durga appears before him riding on a lion and an epic battle ensues. The demon attacks her in his many forms; lion, man, elephant, snake, and buffalo.
“On the tenth day, she strikes the death blow with her trident, and decapitates him with her Chakra, killing him. The gods rejoice and praise her. She bids farewell and promises to return when she is needed and called upon with devotion.
“Unlike the demon, Durga is violent out of necessity and in service to others. She is viewed as a great mother who enacts divine justice on the wicked for the liberation of the oppressed. In our song, we are reaching out to her for strength, so that we may persevere through dark, chaotic, and violent times.
“I am able to relate to her as a mother and protector of my children. They say every mother has a bit of Durga in her.
“There is another legend where Durga is fighting the demon Raktabīja. Every time he is wounded, blood falls to the ground and turns into more demons. So Kali comes forth from Durga's forehead. She holds a bowl and captures every drop of blood so it may not hit the ground, and she drinks it. Thus Durga is able to kill all the duplicates and at last, slays the demon Raktabīja.
“The music video combines these two stories from Hindu mythology, representing her power and the power of divine female energy, also known as Shakti.”
The EP is the product of the band sharing music back and forth online, and feeding off each other’s enthusiasm, ideas, and criticism. The guitars are heavily influenced by early 2000s underground brutal death (such as Disgorge, Deeds of Flesh, Disavowed, and Inveracity) while taking some inspiration from modern death metal. The drums meld together relentless blast beats with bone-jarring grooves. The vocals are aggressive and dynamic, featuring a wide range of techniques and styles.
The cover artwork - painted by vocalist and artist Mallika Sundaramurthy - is a portrait of the Hindu goddess Chhinnamasta.
"She is seen making the ultimate sacrifice for others," says Sundaramurthy of the concept behind her artwork. "She has severed her own head and is feeding her followers with her life force, her own blood. In giving, she is also receiving nourishment. She has overcome death and will soon return her head to its place. She is standing on a love-making couple, meaning she is above the life-procreation-death cycle. She can also be interpreted as a mother figure who sacrifices for her children, as mothers sacrifice and even risk their lives for their babies during childbirth."
New Standard Elite will release The Disfigured and the Divine on physical formats on September 25. Preorder at nserecords.bigcartel.com.
Emasculator will make their live debut at this year’s Texas Domination Fest, scheduled for September 26-28 in Dallas / Ft. Worth, TX. The band is set to tour Europe in May of 2025 around Nice To Eat You Deathfest (Czechia).
"The Unassailable" features a guest appearance by Vishal Singh, with chants by Swathi Kalahasti. Guest vocals on "Age of the Goddess" by Daniela Dahlien Neumanová.
The Disfigured And The Divine was mixed & mastered by Josh Welshman. Guitar and bass were recorded by L.B. at Divine Retribution Studios. Vocals recorded by Tonda Smrčka at Seabeast Production. Drums recorded by Taylor Hahn at Hahn Audio.
Tracklisting:
“Ecstasy In Disseverment (Of Self)”
“In Resplendent Terror”
“Thesmophoric Rites”
“The Unassailable”
“Eradication Of The Asuras”
“Age Of The Goddess”
“Supreme Void Of Acephalous Being”
Swedish hard rockers Crazy Lixx have unveiled their new single “Call Of The Wild”, out today via Frontiers Music Srl.
The track is accompanied by a new unofficial soundtrack music video, made with clips from the classic 1987 vampire horror/comedy “The Lost Boys”, starring Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Haim, Corey Feldman and Jason Patric (among others).
Vocalist Danny Rexon comments on the track: “I'm very proud to set free this new song upon our listeners and I'm really excited to see what the reaction from the fans is going to be like. Crazy Lixx have gone through some changes during this past year and, even though the overall sound and style should be familiar to most fans, I also believe that there are new and fresh components to this latest material (of which there will be a lot more coming of course, don't you worry about that). A lot of work has been poured into making this and I can't wait to finally get it out there for everybody to hear.”
Crazy Lixx recently celebrated their 20+ year career, with the compilation Two Shots At Glory, released on February 16, 2024, and featuring reimagined renditions of their iconic successes.
The compilation was introduced by reimagined classics from the band’s catalogue “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot”, “Lights Out!” and “Fire It Up!”, all accompanied by UST videos that draw inspiration from a wide range of films, from blockbuster hits of the ‘90s to lesser-known ‘80s B-movies. They've gained immens
“Awesome album! I can safely say this will be a fave of the year for me!” – Mike Portnoy
Throughout his long career, Neal Morse has often been a musical collaborator, usually with some of the greatest prog musicians across the world. This time, Morse has brought that collaborative spirit closer to home. The new album by Neal Morse & The Resonance, entitled No Hill For A Climber, will be released on November 8, and the title is taken from a resonant line in Barbara Kingsolver’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Demon Copperhead.
It has its roots at the end of 2023, as Morse explains: “I started thinking about what I was going to do in 2024, and my wife suggested that I should think about doing something with the amazingly talented younger guys that we have here locally - like Chris Riley, Andre Madatian and Philip Martin. I knew just how good they were from playing with them at our Christmas concerts and other events.”
These local musicians were supplemented by Joe Ganzelli (drums) and Johnny Bisaha, who performs much of the lead vocal work, as Morse explains: “While composing No Hill For A Climber, I was hearing a lot of higher range vocals - so I contacted Johnny Bisaha, who came over, listened to the music. loved it and started singing for me. And I immediately thought, ‘Oh man, he's the guy!’.”
To coincide with the announcement, the track "All The Rage" has been launched with a brand new video. Watch below.
Neal comments: “’All The Rage’ was the second track that I recorded with the guys. I had written it with them in mind and we tracked it pretty quickly. We wanted more of a live feel so we did quite a bit of it without a click track, which became a bit of a challenge for me during the piano solo section! I am super happy with the way the song came out and I really feel like you can hear the energy of the band in the track!”
The album will be available as Limited 2CD Digipak (incl. a second disc of instrumentals), Standard CD Jewelcase, Gatefold 2LP & as Digital Album. Pre-order here.
Tracklisting:
"Eternity In Your Eyes"
"Thief"
"All The Rage"
"Ever Interceding"
"No Hill For A Climber"
"All The Rage" video:
Faithful to any Neal Morse prog album, No Hill For A Climber features two epics (the 28 minute "No Hill For A Climber" and 'Eternity In Your Eyes", which clocks in at 22 minutes) as well as three shorter songs: "Ever Interceding", "All The Rage" and "Thief". The latter, Morse admits, is his current favorite: “It’s so
Mammoth Grinder return with their new EP, Undying Spectral Resonance - five tracks of pure grime and grit - a mix of snarling, punk infused old school death metal.
Undying Spectral Resonance strives to pick up where 2018's Cosmic Crypt left off. “I was trying to draw from the last record because I felt like I found our sound on that one," says Mammoth Grinder's founding member Chris Ulsh (Power Trip, Devil Master, and more.) Ulsh played all the instruments and performed all the vocals on Undying Spectral Resonance, which was recorded at long-time collaborator Arthur Rizk’s new home studio outside of Philadelphia.
The title Undying Spectral Resonance references a theory about supernatural energy retention. “It’s about the sinister ambience of a place where something morbid has happened, how it can be a gateway between earth and the immaterial world,” Ulsh explains.
Watch a visualizer for "Undying Spectral Resonance" below.
Mammoth Grinder breathes new life into the project with a revamped lineup, which now includes Sebastian Phillips of Noisem/Exhumed on guitar and Andy Horn of Richmond rippers Loud Night on bass. Ryan Parrish of Iron Reagan is still on drums, while Ulsh has switched from bass back to guitar while of course retaining the vocal position. Undying Spectral Resonance also boasts a guest solo from Rizk, who engineered, mixed and mastered the EP.
Ahead of the EP's November 15 street date on Relapse, Mammoth Grinder will play select shows in the US and Canada, featuring a run with Nails that leads to New England Metal & Hardcore Fest. Dates below.
Beasto Blanco and Lord Of The Lost’s Chris Harms have teamed up for a new song and video, unveiled today. Called “Unreal”, the track appears on Beasto Blanco’s brand-new album Kinetica, their first since 2019, which is available now via COP International Records through Bandcamp. Both bands will also be heading out on tour in North America beginning September 20.
See the video for “Unreal” below, and order the Kinetica album here.
Beasto Blanco frontwoman Calico Cooper says of the track, “The lyrics for ‘Unreal’ poured out of me like water. I hear a lot of songs about sex and love, but I wanted to write one about the sweaty, panicked, heart racing type of obsession you feel for someone where you want them so bad you could crush them. You can’t sleep. You can’t eat. It’s one of my favorite feelings to feel. You just gotta let yourself go there.”
Chris Harms adds, "Working with the wonderful Beasto people, and having the chance to write and produce their new record together with Chuck and Calico, was one of the most inspiring studio times in my career thus far. ‘Unreal,’ so to say — and I can’t wait to see them again soon, when we’re touring together in the U.S.!"
Beasto Blanco features the electrifying collaboration of Nashville-based shock rockers Chuck Garric (Alice Cooper) and high priestess Calico Cooper, delivering an instant knockout blow. Kinetica aspires to capture the visuals, energy, love, sex, sweat, robots, and raw animalistic essence that defines the band.
With an explosive sound and captivating visuals, the two new singles “Run For Your Life” as well as “Lowlands” and "Diamond In The Dirt" are the perfect balance of raw power and infectious melodies that showcases Beasto Blanco’s refreshing authenticity as a beacon of genuine, unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll.
Tracklisting:
"Run For Your Life"
"Nobody Move"
"Heavy Is The Head"
"Unreal" feat. Chris Harms - Lord Of The Lost
"Kill Us Off With A Smile"
"Slide"
"Skull Rider"
"Lowlands"
"Diamond In The Dirt"
"Bad Thoughts"
"Fight"
Some would say The 1968 Tapes is Jazz Sabbath's third album on which the trio, helmed by longtime Black Sabbath/Ozzy Osbourne keys and guitar player Adam Wakeman, present seven new exploratory jazz arrangements based on Black Sabbath tracks from the period 1970-1973.
You can also choose to believe the album's liner notes:
Although never released until recently, Jazz Sabbath's music has been finding its way to millions for over 50 years. Through a vicious cycle of personal tragedy and plagiarism the songs intended to change the jazz world ended up giving birth to a much darker sound. Now a third recording from the Sixties has resurfaced, perhaps their most important one.
In 1968 Jazz Sabbath were an instant hit on the UK jazz scene. It wasn’t long until they were offered a record deal. This first recording was rejected by the label; the label manager said it was too experimental and had no hit potential. However, just like the tracks from albums that followed, these tracks were also shamelessly presented as 'original songs' by that band from Birmingham a few years later. Their lasting popularity, even in the crude way they were covered, only proves just how monumental these songs were and how record labels are often wrong.
With the truth now finally out there and that Birmingham band exposed as the musical charlatans they are, Jazz Sabbath have finally mastered the 1968 tapes to present their best work to the public.
The 1968 Tapes will be released November 29 via Blacklake Records on Vinyl, CD, Cassette and all streaming/download platforms. The track "Supernaut" is streaming on all digital platforms now. Listen below, and watch a promo video.
Legendary Dream Theater keyboardist, Jordan Rudess, releases his brand new solo album, Permission To Fly, today via InsideOutMusic.
No stranger to experimentation, Rudess is known for leading the charge in pushing creative, sonic, and technological boundaries. His latest endeavour, epitomizes this ethos, delving into the complexities of human existence within our multifaceted world. While some of his previous releases were true solo pursuits, this time, Rudess assembled a core group of musicians to support and elevate his vision. The album features Jordan alongside That Joe Payne on vocals, Darby Todd (Devin Townsend) on drums & Steve Dadaian on guitar, as well as guest guitar solos from Bastian Martinez.
Jordan comments: “Permission to Fly is here! This album is a dream come true and features an incredible team of collaborators. My vision has turned into reality, and I can’t wait for you to join me on this journey.”
The first single released from the album was titled "Embers", and you can watch the official video for that track now, filmed earlier in 2024 on Cruise To The Edge:
With the music in capable hands, Rudess wanted to make sure to give the lyrics their proper attention. For that, he turned to a source close to home, his daughter. "All the lyrics on the album were written by my daughter, Ariana. While I enjoy writing lyrics myself, my primary focus tends to be on the sonic quality of the words. For this album, I wanted to delve deeper and offer something that resonated on a more profound and cerebral level. Ari did an exceptional job.”
Permission To Fly is available as Limited CD Digipak & Gatefold 180g 2LP (both incl. bonus material), as well as digitally. Order here.
Tracklisting:
"The Final Threshold"
"Into The Lair"
"Haunted Reverie"
"The Alchemist"
"Embers"
"Shadow Of The Moon"
"Eternal"
"Footstep In The Snow"
"Dreamer"
"Incarnation" (Bonus Track)
"Chopin Fm" (Bonus Track)
"Shadow Of The Moon" video:
"The Alchemist" video:
Renowned as the "Best Keyboardist of All Time" by Music Radar Magazine, Jordan Rudess stands out as the extraordinary keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist for the platinum-selling, Grammy Award-winning progressive rock band, Dream Theater. Embarking on his musical journey as a classical prodigy, Jordan initiated his studies at the illustrious Juilliard School of Music at the age of 9, laying the foundation for a career marked by a distinctive fusion of classical and rock influences.
Beyond his role in Dream Theater and the power group, Liquid Tension Experiment, Jordan's musical prowess has resonated across a diverse spectrum of collaborations. From Deep Purple and David Bowie to Steven Wilson and Jan Hammer, he has left an indelible mark on the industry. Notable projects such as LMR (his side venture with Tony Levin and Marco Minneman), Steven Wilson’s Blackfield, guest appearances with Deep Purple and the Dixie Dregs and collaborations with artists