Knoxville, Tennessee death metallers WHITECHAPEL will release their long-awaited new full-length album, "Hymns In Dissonance", on March 7 via Metal Blade Records.
"There is nothing nice about 'Hymns In Dissonance', from the riffs, to the lyrics, to the overall vibe of the album," says guitarist Alex Wade of the band's latest output. "We attempted to write our heaviest album to date. We wanted to put out something that was shockingly menacing and brutal."
"The album follows the story of a cultist who is gathering worthy people to join his cult," Wade further elaborates, "and there are moments in the storyline where the cult followers are singing an evil hymn to open a portal for the head cultist to enter."
The band's dynamic, brutal musicality serves as a soundtrack to the compelling lyrical story that vocalist Phil Bozeman vividly imagines.
"'Hymns In Dissonance' is a mockery of the true nature of what hymns are," Bozeman explains. "Hymns are melodious and harmonious. Dissonance is the opposite of melody and harmony. Dissonance represents evil. The tracks on the record are the hymns, which represent the seven deadly sins, beginning from track three to track ten. Tracks one and two are the introduction."
The lineup's timely and terrifying vision was first unveiled in the fall of 2024 with the single "A Visceral Retch" inciting frenzied fans to call the song "a version of WHITECHAPEL we have never heard before. Can't explain how absolutely goddamn brutal this song is. This is a total dream come true." The title track is the LP's second single.
WHITECHAPEL, who formed in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2006, has seen the core lineup — vocalist Phil Bozeman, guitarists Ben Savage, Zach Householder and Alex Wade, and bassist Gabe Crisp — intact since 2007, with the exception of drummer Brandon Zackey, who has been playing with the band since 2022. While "Hymns In Dissonance" follows 2021's "Kin" chronologically, the new album is actually somewhat of a sequel to "This Is Exile" thematically, the three-word title "Hymns In Dissonance" representing that correlation.
The band started composing the new album at Householder's studio in June of 2023, following their headlining tour for "The Valley". The collective stuck to a strict weekday schedule, the structure allowing for maximum creativity and minimum burnout. Householder produced "Hymns In Dissonance", which allowed the musicians to seamlessly switch gears from preproduction to recording the full album without skipping a beat. The guitarist shadowed producer Mark Lewis a lot over the last five WHITECHAPEL albums and bringing that influence inside the band is a full circle moment for Householder and WHITECHAPEL.
In advance of the release, today the band unleashes a video for the title track. Notes Bozeman, "It's about [the storyline's cultist] building his cult of followers: Only the most heinous and vile people on the planet showing their devotion to their lord, committing horrible acts, and the leader showcasing his power and his purpose to commit the seven cardinal sins to resurrect their lord, and to replace divinity with evil."
Adds Wade, "Mostly written by Phil on guitar, 'Hymns In Dissonance' has a few riffs and tweaks thrown in by the rest of us. He can churn out some pummeling riffs and it's one of the best songs on the album because he had a vision for the whole song with the riffs and vocals. It's tuned to Drop G which we have been using since the self-titled LP, but the ending breakdown shifts down one whole step to Drop F, which we have never done before. Having the final breakdown shift lower than the rest of the song really helped the end have the crushing feeling it needed."
Watch WHITECHAPEL's video for "Hymns In Dissonance", directed by My Good Eye Visuals, below.
"Hymns In Dissonance", which features cover art by European tattoo artist Rob Borbas (Grind Design),will be released on CD and digital formats as well as vinyl.
"Hymns In Dissonance" track listing:
01. Prisoner 666
02. Hymns In Dissonance
03. Diabolic Slumber
04. A Visceral Retch
05. Ex Infernis
06. Hate Cult Ritual
07. The Abysmal Gospel
08. Bedlam
09. Mammoth God
10. Nothing Is Coming For Any Of Us
WHITECHAPEL will return to North American stages this spring on a month-long headlining tour. The "Hymns In Dissonance" tour runs from March 18 in Raleigh, North Carolina through April 19 in Atlanta, Georgia. Support will be provided by BRAND OF SACRIFICE, 200 STAB WOUNDS and ALLUVIAL. Tickets are on sale now.
ENVY OF NONE, the band featuring Alex Lifeson (RUSH),Andy Curran (CONEY HATCH),Alfio Annibalini and singer Maiah Wynne, is back today with news of its much-anticipated second album, "Stygian Wavz", set for release on March 14 via Kscope. The announcement follows a recent flurry of activity from the Canadian/American band which saw them release two singles, "Not Dead Yet" and "Under The Stars", both of which included on the new album.
To celebrate the announcement, ENVY OF NONE has shared a new single — album title track "Stygian Waves" — alongside a new music video animated and directed by Mariano Biotico.
Speaking on the new single and the upcoming album, ENVY OF NONE songwriter and bassist Andy Curran said: "This track is a favorite of all four EONs. Despite the fact of the spartan lyrical content, this song features our sweet Maiah on lead vocals. Her harmonies and layers of vocals are literally symphonic! It's hard to put a finger on what style or genre this one is…and we're proud of that!"
Though they'd never describe themselves as such, ENVY OF NONE are the living, breathing definition of a supergroup. No other band on earth could rightly claim to have Lifeson — one of rock's most influential visionaries — heading up guitar duties, with Curran of CONEY HATCH and SOHO 69 overseeing bass/programming as well as producer extraordinaire Alfio Annibalini on keyboards. However, the star in this band could very well be its youngest member — American singer-songwriter Maiah Wynne — whose wonderfully emotive vocals are able to spin the music in new exciting directions that thrill to the core.
On their self-titled debut of 2022, the group were able to prove that they were a lot more than the sum of their parts, with an abundance of panache and finesse poured into a contemporary alt rock sound that was hard to predict and even harder to categorize. This year's sophomore release, "Stygian Wavz", is the sound of a band basking in the radiant glow of creative confidence and coming into their own, staggering the listener with every twist and turn encased within their heady mix of genre-splicing brilliance.
"Stygian Wavz" track listing:
01. Not Dead Yet [03:29]
02. The Story [04:41]
03. Under The Stars [04:32]
04. Thrill Of The Chase [03:40]
05. Handle With Care [04:14]
06. That Was Then [03:46]
07. Raindrops [03:33]
08. New Trip [03:55]
09. Clouds [04:02]
10. The End [03:58]
11. Stygian Waves [03:37]
"Stygian Wavz" will be released on a selection of formats, including colored vinyl, standard black vinyl, CD, Blu-ray, digitally and as a special deluxe edition boxset.
DREAM THEATER keyboardist Jordan Rudess has released the official music video for his song "The Final Threshold". The track is taken from his latest solo album, "Permission To Fly", which came out last September via InsideOut Music.
Says Rudess: "Step into 'The Final Threshold' with this stunning video by my friend Wayne Joyner! Using @Lightricks' amazing @LTX.Studio software, Wayne brought this song from my solo album 'Permission To Fly' to life in a way that's truly next level. Big thanks to Wayne and Lightricks for making creativity soar!"
No stranger to experimentation, known for leading the charge in pushing creative, sonic, and technological boundaries, Rudess's latest endeavor epitomizes this ethos, delving into the complexities of human existence within our multifaceted world.
As Jordan explains: "The essence of the album is deeply informed by the tumultuous events of 2023-2024, with motifs of peace and anti-violence woven throughout many of the songs."
While some 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 and Steve Dadaian on guitar, as well as guest guitar solos from Bastian Martinez.
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," Jordan says. "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" was made available as a limited CD digipak and gatefold 180g 2LP (both including bonus material),as well as digitally.
"Permission To Fly" track listing:
01. The Final Threshold (04:08)
02. Into The Lair (09:31)
03. Haunted Reverie (05:14)
04. The Alchemist (08:36)
05. Embers (04:03)
06. Shadow Of The Moon (05:29)
07. Eternal (08:53)
08. Footstep In The Snow (04:02)
09. Dreamer (05:03)
10. Incarnation (03:31) (bonus track)
11. Chopin Fm (05:33) (bonus track)
Renowned as the "Best Keyboardist Of All Time" by Music Radar magazine, 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 like Enrique Iglesias, THE PAUL WINTER CONSORT, Annie Haslam, and many others, underscore the breadth of his musical reach.
Venturing into the realm of cutting-edge technology, Jordan has emerged as a pioneer with a focus on state-of-the-art keyboard controllers and music apps. As the owner of the highly successful iOS app development company Wizdom Music, he has spearheaded the creation of award-winning apps, including GeoShred, MorphWiz, SampleWiz, Vythm, Polywave, Jam With Jordan and SampleWiz 2. GeoShred, Wizdom Music's latest triumph, was a collaborative effort with moForte, founding members of Stanford University's Sondius team. Rudess is currently working on an AI interactive project as Visiting Artist at MIT's Media Lab in the Responsive Environments group.
After the most successful year of the band’s history, Chris Harms kicks off 2025 by making a long-cherished dream come true, releasing his first solo album, 1980, set for release on January 31 via Napalm Records.
Today, Harms reveals “She Called Me Diaval”, a brand-new song cut from his upcoming debut. In this genre-fluid offering, the Lord Of The Lost vocalist and German ESC finalist emphasizes his boundary-defying artistic vision. The track delivers an 80s synth-pop revival enriched with electronic influences, new wave, and goth elements - all elevated by Harms’ unmistakable signature vocals.
Featuring eleven tracks in total, 1980 offers a distinctive sound that remains unexplored in Harms’ main band. Once again, it highlights his versatility as a musical chameleon and free spirit—qualities that both fans and critics respect and admire.
Chris Harms about the new single “She Called Me Diaval”: “Probably, the most frequently asked question about the song will be 'Who or what is Diaval?' - Well, either the song is about a dream I can't describe in detail, me musically processing a part of my life - because it's my only way of dealing with things, or I just like to tell mysterious, darkly colorful stories. At some point, I'll give it away...”
Watch the official music video for "She Called Me Diaval":
With Lord Of The Lost, Chris Harms just experienced the most successful four years in the band's history, including participation in the Eurovision Song Contest and tours with Iron Maiden, as well as one #1 and two #2 albums on the Official German Album Charts. But a break is out of the question. The idea of a solo album has been maturing in his mind for a long time and has now taken its final form.
Chris Harms describes 1980: “If I were forced to categorize this album and label it, it would probably say ‘a strange but successful mix of Depeche Mode, Modern Talking and Sandra with Chris Harms' voice, but with less perm and mullet’.”
Songs such as the first single “I Love You” and “Lunamor” exude a pleasant lightness, while “Past Pain” and “May This Be Your Last Battlefield” strike a reflective note. Two selected duets round off the album: Harms welcomes guest singer Sven Friedrich (Solar Fake) on “Madonna Of The Night”, while Ronan Harris (VNV Nation) can be heard on "The Grey Machines”.
1980 deliberately avoids attempting to reinvent the wheel, but is to be understood as a musical journey through time. There is no deliberate calculation or riding the wave of any trends on the album, but simply a passion, desire and love for music, with which Chris Harms has marked a remarkable new pinnacle in his discography as a musician.
1980 will be available in the following formats:
- Deluxe Box incl. 2-CD 6 page Digisleeve (1980 & Instrumental Version) with 16 page booklet + Bonus CD (Voice & Keys Version) as 4 page Digisleeve, “1980“ golden chain, 3 printed polaroids – ltd. to 500 copies worldwide (Napalm Records Mailorder + Bandshop exclusive)
- 2 LP Gatefold Cross Fuchsia/Yellow/Red incl. lyric sheet – ltd. to 300 copies worldwide (Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive)
- Tape Neon Orange (Black Print) – ltd. to 100 copies worldwide (Napalm Records Mailorder + Bandshop exclusive)
- 2 LP Gatefold Marbled Translucent (Old Purple, Viola, Black) incl. lyric sheet – ltd. to 100 copies worldwide (Bandshop exclusive)
- 2-CD 6 page Digisleeve (1980 & Instrumental Version) with 16 page booklet (Napalm Records Mailorder + Bandshop exclusive
- Digital Album
Following their Bionic Swarm debut album (2021) and The Silent Call EP (2023), Dutch futuristic metallers, Cryptosis, return with a mighty, awe-inspiring sophomore album, Celestial Death, set for worldwide release on March 7 via Century Media Records.
Today, the band share the official video for "Reign Of Infinite" from the upcoming release. Watch below.
Cryptosis comment: “We’re really excited to share our newest single, 'Reign Of Infinite', with all of you. This track is a dystopian anthem that dives deep into the rise of a new god, blending relentless Overkill-style double bass drums with an epic and dark atmosphere. It’s not your typical Cryptosis sound - most of the song rides on the same beat and pulse, creating a hypnotic energy, while Laurens’ vocals bring an atmospheric edge. As the second single from our sophomore album, Celestial Death, 'Reign Of Infinite' offers a glimpse into the vast and intense album we've created - one that’s darker, heavier, and more unrelenting than ever before. Stay tuned for the full album release and let us know what you think!"
Cryptosis checked in with the following comment about Celestial Death: “We’re excited to announce our new album! A sonic journey that pushes all boundaries of everything we created before. This album represents our evolution - an exploration of darkness that’s both vast and cinematic. 'Celestial Death' pulls you into a haunting atmosphere with relentless heaviness. Each track digs deeper into the enigma of existence, decay and fragile hope. 'Celestial Death' is our darkest vision yet - a soundtrack to the chaotic world we live in. It’s heavier, bolder, and still very much Cryptosis. We can’t wait for you to experience it, and join us in this new chapter. Prepare to ascend. The 'Celestial Death' awaits!".
Recorded by Olaf Skoreng at Tom Meier and Studio Moon Music between April and August 2024, mixed by Fredrik Folkare at Chrome Studios (Unleashed, Necrophobic, Hellbutcher) in Sweden and finally mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Studios (Arch Enemy, Borknagar, Amorphis) in Sweden too, Celestial Death once more comes with artwork by Eliran Kantor (Kreator, Testament, My Dying Bride) and showcases the group on a darker, heavier, more melodic and extremely cinematic journey across its 11 tracks / 42 minutes of playing time.
Celestial Death will be available in the following formats:
- CD Digipak Limited Edition (first pressing only)
- Gatefold LP on 180g black vinyl (unlimited copies)
- Gatefold LP on 180g deep blood red vinyl (limited to 300 copies)
- Digital
Prologue - "Awakening"
"Faceless Matter"
"Static Horizon"
"The Silent Call" (Version 2024)
"Ascending"
"Motionless Balance"
"Reign Of Infinite"
"Absent Presence"
"In Between Realities"
"Cryptosphere"
"Coda - Wander Into The Light"
"Faceless Matter" video:
In other news, Cryptosis has been announced as part of a European tour with British thrashers Onslaught, who are celebrating the 40th Anniversary of their classic Power From Hell album. Find confirmed Cryptosis dates below, including an album release show in Enschede, The Netherlands on March 29.
Today, British metalcore heavyweights, Architects, unleash their blistering new single, "Blackhole: from their 11th studio album, The Sky, The Earth & All Between, out February 28 via Epitaph Records.
Paired with a jaw-dropping, cinematic music video shot on location in California, “Blackhole” is as visually striking as it is sonically explosive. Frontman Sam Carter shares, “So excited to have Blackhole out, it’s one of my favourite songs from the album. The video is equally as intense as the song. We filmed the video at such a wild location and we really are at the top of those buildings that you see. This is Architects at our most ferocious."
The single marks the next chapter in the lead-up to The Sky, The Earth & All Between, following the hard-hitting anthems “Whiplash,” “Curse,” and “Seeing Red.” If these first four single singles are any indication, this album is shaping up to be a defining moment for Architects.
Since dropping their critically acclaimed 2022 album ‘the classic symptoms of a broken spirit’, Architects have cemented their position as one of the UK’s most vital rock bands. The past year has seen the band dominate stages worldwide, from being personally tapped by Metallica to join their tour, to blowing minds at Download Festival 2023 and headlining Bloodstock Festival. This summer, they’re set to continue their takeover with select dates supporting Linkin Park on their world tour.
Armed with sharp innovation and renewed hunger, Architects are a band at the absolute peak of their powers—and they’re not slowing down.
Streetlight have released a video for "Captured In The Night", from their upcoming Night Vision album, out March 14 via Frontiers Music Srl. Watch the clip below:
Streetlight is an AOR/melodic rock band from Jonkoping, Sweden. In 2023, Streetlight released their debut album Ignition via Frontiers, digitally and on CD. The band has not been resting on the laurels, and has worked hard to release their sophomore album, Night Vision.
Operus, the masters of blending theatrical drama with epic metal, are back with their new single, "Psychopomp". This electrifying track offers listeners an exhilarating sonic journey through the afterlife, reimagining the concept of a nightclub where souls gather instead of following the traditional guide to the beyond.
Combining haunting melodies, powerful orchestral arrangements, and intense metal riffs, "Psychopomp" is both a musical and visual spectacle. The single encapsulates Operus’ signature sound: a fusion of metal, classical music, and theatre that delivers an unforgettable experience. With its epic yet fun atmosphere, the song transports listeners to a neon-lit realm filled with mystery, chaos, and the shadowy presence of the titular psychopomp.
Oscar Rangel, guitarist behind Operus, describes the track as, "a celebration of defiance and exploration—an invitation to imagine a vibrant afterlife where boundaries are blurred, and souls revel in their eternal journey."
True to the motto #onebetter, Angus McSix won’t settle for 666 — no, it has to be “6666”. The new song includes everything that made the album Angus McSix And The Sword Of Power the most successful power metal debut of 2023, skyrocketing to number 10 on the Official German Album Charts, as well as a few surprises...
At their start, Prince Angus McSix (Thomas Winkler / ex-Gloryhammer) is overwhelmed by the dark Seebulon (Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann / Orden Ogan) and a horde of orcs. He is frozen and taken to an unknown location somewhere in space and time. Telepathically, he manages to call his brother Adam for help before his voice fades into eternity. Adam hears him and sets off immediately. Although he doesn’t know where Angus is, he knows he can locate him with the power of the six Sixtus Stellar Superlords.
And so, Thomas Winkler, who is now stepping back to spend more time with his family, passes the sword to exceptional vocalist Sam Nyman (Manimal).
“It was a tough decision to go down this path, and even harder to find a suitable singer”, explains Winkler. “But Seeb and I created such an amazing project with Angus McSix that we didn’t want to let it die. I’m glad we found Sam and am absolutely thrilled with his vocal performance."
“You can’t replace a Thomas Winkler, which is why we didn’t search for the next 'Angus.' Sam brings his own style, so he needed his own character: Prince Adam McSix,” explains Seeb.
With its new lineup, Angus McSix have created an absolute hit track that is now already released as the first single from the upcoming, yet untitled album. Watch the official video For “6666”:
Guitar amazon Thalestris (Thalia Bellazecca, ex-Frozen Crown, Primal Fear) continues with the new lineup, wi
Former ROCKSTAR SUPERNOVA singer Lukas Rossi, now proud to call Tampa Bay home, has once again redefined creativity with the release of his latest single and music video, "DOA". A bold and emotionally charged project, the song features Lukas's wife, Ronni Rossi, showcasing the couple's shared artistry and undeniable chemistry.
Known for his hands-on approach, Lukas has crafted every element of "DOA" himself. From writing, recording, and performing the music, to directing, shooting, producing, and editing the video, Lukas brings unparalleled passion and precision to his work. Complementing his creative genius, Ronni Rossi lends her own unique vocal magic to the track, making "DOA" a true collaborative masterpiece.
The music video for "DOA" delivers a cinematic and abstract experience, blending Warhol-esque visuals with a pop-electronic edge. Praised for its originality, the video has been described as "one of the most creative and abstract submissions" by Tampa Bay Music News. Exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, and reinvention, "DOA" comes to life through Lukas's powerful vocals, innovative visuals, and raw authenticity.
"DOA" will be available worldwide on streaming platforms starting Friday, January 17, 2025. Be among the first to experience the full impact of this powerful anthem wherever you stream your music.
Known globally as the winner of CBS's "Rock Star: Supernova", Rossi is a multi-platinum singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Co-writer of THREE DAYS GRACE's "Neurotic", Lukas was handpicked by legends Tommy Lee (MÖTLEY CRÜE),Gilby Clarke (GUNS N' ROSES) and Jason Newsted (METALLICA) to front their supergroup, instantly captivating fans with his raw talent and dynamic performances.
Lukas continues to break boundaries with his innovative approach to music and visuals. Now based in Tampa Bay, he remains a dedicated indie artist, crafting every aspect of his work with authenticity and creativity.
With over two decades in the music industry, Lukas has cemented his status as a multi-platinum artist, songwriter, and producer. His journey from Toronto's local music scene to global acclaim is marked by relentless creativity, critical praise, and a devoted fanbase. His dynamic stage presence and genre-defying artistry continue to resonate worldwide.
Lukas's voice became iconic through his performance of the original Beyblade theme song "Let's Beyblade", earning him a unique following within the worlds of Comic-Con and anime. Lukas creates something for every listener with a catalog of over 200 songs ranging from rock anthems to intimate acoustic pieces.
Rossi has worked alongside some of the industry's most influential names, including members of EVANESCENCE, PAPA ROACH, DISTURBED, P.O.D., TRAIN, GUNS N' ROSES, MÖTLEY CRÜE, METALLICA and QUEENSRŸCHE. Producers such as Andy Johns, Howard Benson, Ross Hogarth and Bob Rock have also contributed to his projects, cementing his reputation as a versatile and innovative artist.
BREAKING BENJAMIN has released the official music video for its latest single, "Awaken". You can now check it out below.
BREAKING BENJAMIN's first new music since 2018 is being made available via the band's new global recordings agreement with BMG. The partnership with BMG also marks the group's first new label home since releasing their debut album over 20 years ago.
BREAKING BENJAMIN guitarist Jasen Rauch said about "Awaken": "Working on this song has been something new and exciting for all of us, I believe. We've been able to explore more of who we are traditionally while at the same time push boundaries and try things we haven't done in the past. Musically we've tried hard to stay true to what BREAKING BENJAMIN is, but offer a new take as well."
During a recent appearance on "Whiplash", the KLOS radio show hosted by Full Metal Jackie, BREAKING BENJAMIN founder/frontman Benjamin Burnley was asked about the musical and thematic inspiration for the band's upcoming long-awaited follow-up to 2018's "Ember" album. He responded: "Yeah, it's been the longest we've ever gone without putting out an album, but the strange thing is, I don't know if it's 'cause of the pandemic or not, but it doesn't seem like it's been that long, to me anyway, but it has been a long time. I think that a lot of that is just that we have, with every album that comes out, there's just another whole album's worth of stuff. We have a lot of songs in our catalog, so it's kind of like it gets to the point of, like, we're not gonna add any more to this just to add more to it. We need to keep true to what this catalog… When I am gone off the earth, and that's all that's left of me behind, is my offspring and music is what I've left behind, I want it to be really solid."
He continued: "I really wish I could tell you what inspires me because if I knew that, I would like really try to break it down and invoke it whenever I wanted to, control it, but I don't know. It's just compulsion, to be inspired. It's just, like, 'Oh, I have this idea,' I have no idea where it came from, but I have this idea. I pull out my phone and then I record it and then I go back and I listen to it and I keep stacking and stacking and stacking on to it until it's something. And that's just kind of how I work. Before I would just grab my phone. I used to have all these little Mead notepads — you know those little ones, little mini ones, little Mead notepads. I have like a hundred of those — probably more — I used to have them in every single pocket of my jacket and my pants and a little silver mini cassette tape recorder thing. So this is before the smartphone. I don't do that anymore; I use my phone. So it's always been that process, to me, to just have something handy, something I could… I haven't written in a really long time, I mean with a pen, like wrote something down. I can't even remember the last time I wrote something down with a pen. So I use my phone and just tap it in there when it hits me, when it comes to me. It could be at the most weirdest time, most awkward time. I'll be talking to somebody and then I'll just stop and be, like, 'Sorry, I don't mean to be rude.' And I'll go in the bathroom and I'll record a little hum into the phone, and they hear me humming. They're, like, 'What the hell is up with this guy?' If I don't get it, I'm scared it'll be gone."
Regarding how spending so much time on road informs the songwriting process for new BREAKING BENJAMIN music, Benjamin said: "Well, with these guys in particular, with this lineup, the way that we write music is really natural together. Nothing is forced. There's never been — which is really weird, now that I'm thinking about it — there's never been a time when anybody has ever had to fight for an idea or push an idea or whatever. We kind of seem to think that they the same things suck, which is really important. You can like the same things, but it's more important to know what the same things that are bad are. And so I think touring — we get together, we have like a chemistry together not just as musicians but as friends and brothers. And when we're together playing, it definitely makes us more excited and motivated to record and make new music together than being apart and not playing together. So that aspect. But as far as where the creative stuff comes from, I've been doing this — thank God, and I'm very thankful for it — but I've been doing this for 22 years now, and I still, to this day, I can't tell anyone like where the songs like come from. Honestly, it's like a compulsion. Like when you're addicted to nicotine and you're like compelled to take a puff of a cigarette — it's like that. It's not like a plan. It's, like, 'I need to do this right now' thing."
He continued: "I'm very logically minded, kind of annoyingly so, actually. People find it annoying how logically minded I am. When I break things down, they're, like, 'Just go with it. You don't need to analyze everything' or whatever. But logically wise, I really wish I knew what influenced songwriting, what influenced it to happen, because then I would break that down logically and try to evoke it whenever I wanted to. I just can't, because I don't know where that compulsion comes from. So, to answer your question in the long way around, of course, I think just physically being together and playing music together sparks us to be… 'Cause when we're at home, we don't eat, sleep and breathe music. I'm a dad, most of us are dads, and so we're doing that — we're doing that stuff, the same thing that everybody else does. You kind of forget that you're a musician. You kind of forget that you're in a band. Sometimes I'll go into like a bar to get chicken wings, not to drink, mind you, but to get chicken wings, and somebody will start talking to me and I'm, like, 'Why are you talking [to me]?' And I'm, like, 'Oh, yeah, that thing,' because I'm living normal life, taking my kid to school. So being out on tour and being together as a band, it just reminds us all that we're in a band. [Laughs]"
In a separate interview with Josh Klinger of Chicago's Rock 95.5 radio station, Burnley was asked when fans can expect to hear BREAKING BENJAMIN's next studio album. He responded: "Well, we're working on it… It's the same thing as before. Back in the day, we were on a climb, we wanted things, and now we're all just so blessed to be here, period. And so there isn't necessarily, I wouldn't say like a climb, but there's definitely like a maintenance to stay where we are. But that being said, when there's a climb, you're really rushing yourself, you're hungry, you wanna get it. And we are still hungry and we do wanna get stuff too. But I think it's a little more relaxed now where we really only work on stuff when we're genuinely inspired to. And I feel like that's like — when I listen to the songs that are rushed from back in those days, when I listen to stuff now, I have more peace of mind listening to the newer stuff, because I know that nothing, not any part of it exists because it was rushed. It's all intentional. It's all done in a great setting and in a great mindset. And so that's kind of what takes a while, 'cause you can't like just take a pill and and be inspired. So that's what we're doing. And the record, we have the bones for the whole thing. And it's just a matter of when we're feeling it, 'cause that's going to be the best result anyway, is when you're feeling that, and so that when those moments come by, we work on it. And then when they go away, we don't."
BREAKING BENJAMIN have consistently dominated the rock charts since their debut album in 2002, "Saturate". With 10 No. 1 hits, platinum albums, 8.5 billion streams globally, and a social following of over 6.5 million, they've solidified their global influence and a strong devoted fan base. Their last release, "Aurora", earned them their tenth No. 1 rock radio hit with "Far Away" (featuring Scooter Ward).
Their previous album, "Ember", debuted at number three on the Billboard 200, marking their fourth Top 5 debut. Their track record includes No. 1 hits like "Red Cold River" and "Torn In Two". Both "Aurora" and "Ember" achieved Top 10 status in multiple countries, and No. 1 spots across various charts, including Billboard's Top Alternative Albums, Top Rock Albums, Top Hard Rock Albums and Top Digital Albums.
In a statement, the band said: "Working on these new songs has been a fresh experience for all of us. We've stayed true to the core of who BREAKING BENJAMIN is, but we've also pushed ourselves creatively, exploring new sounds and ideas that we haven't tapped into before. It's been about striking that balance between honoring our roots while introducing a fresh take on what our music can be."
Sean Heydorn, SVP, head of rock and Rise Records, said: "BREAKING BENJAMIN has consistently pushed the boundaries of rock music with their raw energy, powerful songwriting, and a connection with fans that's both intense and enduring. We're incredibly proud to support them as they embark on their next chapter with us at BMG."
Over the course of the group's career, BREAKING BENJAMIN have earned three platinum albums, two gold albums, one four-times-platinum single, one three-times-platinum single, one two-times-platinum single, three platinum singles, and six gold singles, making them one of rock music's most highly anticipated torch bearers of new music.
The great tragedy of self-consciousness, that terrible and wonderful spark that makes us uniquely human, is the knowledge of our own mortality. That knowledge that one day, everything we have done, everything we are, and everything we love will succumb to the inevitable fading into nonexistence is a curse and our blessing.
"Fade To Blue," the title track from Bastion Rose's debut EP, captures the essence of resilience and transformation. Produced by three-time Grammy award-winning producer David Bottrill (Tool, Muse, Godsmack) and mastered by Maor Appelbaum (Faith No More, Dream Theater), this song is a journey through raw emotion, blending powerful rock riffs, soulful vocals, and intricate melodies.
The video visually reflects the song’s themes of loss, renewal, and self-discovery, mirroring the poignant and personal experiences that shaped the track.
"Fade To Blue" is more than a song—it's an anthem for anyone who has faced life's hardships and emerged stronger. Let the sound and imagery pull you in and leave you inspired.
Watch the official video for "Fade To Blue" below:
Bastion Rose's story is nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the resilience and creative fire that fuels their music. In just two years, frontman Austin Frink has transformed from a musician battling the uncertainty of ever regaining his singing voice after a life-altering surgery into the driving force behind Bastion Rose. The band's name itself embodies the transient nature of existence and the significance of cherishing every moment. Their debut EP, Fade To Blue, is a testament to their unwavering spirit and artistic passion.
On August 10, 2024, Canadian melodic metal legends, Unleash The Archers, stormed the stage at the Bloodstock Open Air Festival, delivering a breathtaking performance that left the crowd roaring for more. Known for their unique fusion of power metal, melodic death metal, and progressive influences, this band continues to push boundaries and redefine the genre.
One of the standout moments from the set was their explosive rendition of "Ghosts In The Mist". This song perfectly encapsulates the band’s ability to weave haunting melodies with thunderous rhythms and Brittney Slayes' unparalleled vocal range. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just discovering their music, this track is sure to resonate with you.
Watch pro-shot video of the band's performance of "Ghosts In The Mist" below:
Unleash The Archers released their sixth studio album, Phantoma, last May via Napalm Records.
Mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen, and with lead guitarist Andrew Kingsley at the helm as both principal songwriter and producer, Phantoma is an exciting advancement in Unleash The Archers’ songwriting and storytelling mastery, and a giant leap forward in th
Finnish melodic metal band Unén have shared their new single and accompanying visualizer video, “Sky”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.
Lead singer Stina Girs comments on the track: “A dream of a secret door leading to a world where no one judges, there is no concept of time, you can be everything you want and fantasies are real. You dare to let go of reality. This is all what Sky is about.”
Hailing from Helsinki, Finland, Unén are a modern melodic metal band, whose music also incorporates elements ranging from progressive to pop, blending intensity with sensitivity in its sound.
Unén was originally founded in late 2021, laying the foundation for the band's musical style. In 2022, Unén focused on composing and refining production independently, resulting in the release of two self-published tracks. However, after a rollercoaster year, there was a need to change the lineup to accelerate production.
The word "Unén" was derived from the band's original idea that lyrics would be based on the world of dreams. However, due to lineup changes, this concept took a different direction, but the name remained.
In the beginning of 2023, there was a shift in Unén's lineup due to the change of lead singer, which notably accelerated all activities. The band members coming together was a series of fortunate coincidences and determined searches, including encounters with old acquaintances. The right people had found each other.
Unén released their first single "Made of Stone (cover)" in May 2023 with the new lead singer, Stina Girs. She became known during the IDOLS competition in 2011 and subsequently released two albums as a solo artist. The original song by Evanescence inspired
With Helldorado, the third installment of Spiritworld’s death-western trifecta, chief hombre Stu Folsom and his rhinestone-encrusted, Stetson-wearin' wrecking crew take you deeper into a world where the hot desert sun beats down on a singular vision of the American West as a gateway to hell.
“It’s a different album than the past two,” says Folsom of the thematic and sonic journey that began with the Las Vegas band’s 2020 Pagan Rhythms LP and continued with 2022’s Deathwestern.
From the honky-tonk swing of opener "Abilene Grime" to the Slayer-worthy riffing of "No Vacancy in Heaven" and the unforgettable "Oblivion" (which features members of Black Braid and Rise Against), Spiritworld's story rides on with this latest offering, blasting Mojave-born bloodlust and stomping tomahawk riffs while charging straight into a sonic vision of macabre Americana.
Helldorado is due out March 21 via Century Media. Preorder here.
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