Punishing noise levels are a natural force among metal’s various habitats. But after hearing the roar of chainsaws tear through Costa Rica’s rain forest, two angry metalheads are banging their heads together to protect our ecosystems.
Savage Lands is co-operated by Megadeth drummer Dirk Verbeuren and musician-turned-activist Sylvain Demercastel. Since its founding in 2022, the U.S.-based 501 (c) (3) non-profit has preserved 100,000 square feet of Costa Rican forest using the money from their music. 100% of the royalties from the organization’s debut album, Army Of The Trees, support their ongoing preservation projects in Costa Rica and other countries.
Debut album, Army Of The Trees, comes out February 15 via Season of Mist. Watch the video for the album’s anthemic title track, which features stars from across the French metal scene, below. Pre-order/pre-save the album here.
Like the trees of the rain forest, Savage Lands are supported by many different branches.
On the ground, the organization partners with scientists, forest engineers, ecological parks, private businesses and other local non-profits. Their Green Alliance has led to more than 11,000 trees being planted in deforested areas along the Costa Rican coastline thanks to the help of 1,200 volunteers. They also partner with global conservation leaders like the Jane Goodall Institute.
“Nature is music. Trees are music”, said the world famous scientist, who is working together with the metal non-profit on preservation projects in Africa and France.
Collaboration also fuels Savage Lands’ creative drive. Army Of The Trees introduces several species of metalhead into the band’s natural environment. The album features Alissa White-Gluz, Lord Of The Lost and other movers and shakers from across the metal industry. While the title track boasts a wild ranging guest list, its anthemic energy comes from the organization’s earliest roots.
The foundation of Savage Lands was three decades in the making. Dirk and Sylvain first met in France during the late ’90s, when they both played in the socially conscious thrash metal band Artsonic. While Dirk went on to join Soilwork and Megadeth, the country has continued to support their joint conservation efforts. Hellfest pledged to donate 1 million Euro to Savage Lands after the band performed on the main stage at this year’s festival with familiar faces from Napalm Death, Biohazard, Body Count, The Gathering and their core members in French metalcore exploders Black Bomb A and Chicano crossover punks Loco Muerte.
“That’s one of the beautiful things about Savage Lands”, Sylvain says. “As a band, we’re not limited to just one genre. We can adapt to boost the strengths of whoever is joining us”.
"Army Of The Trees” packs more Francophone force. Eight pillars from the French metal scene join Savage Lands in the fight to protect the world’s ecosystems. Niko of Tagada Jones throws lyrical haymakers while Loco Muerte’s Steeven Corsini spins a blazing rap between drums that pound like the forces of the jungle. Auré Jäger (Akiavel), David Sidilarsen and the mighty Julien Truchan from Benighted flex their beastly growls. The ghostly video is a chilling reminder of what’s at stake, but the fiery guitar solos from Sylvain, Stéphane Buriez (Loudblast) and Viber (Sidilarsen) put more than enough bite behind Savage Lands’ fierce rallying cry. “Now is the time to take a stand“.
“Our goals are attainable,” Sylvain and Dirk say. “By converting the land that we purchase into nature sanctuaries, Savage Lands will help set a precedent for environmental activism. But we must work together and quickly. Ecosystems are still under attack. If we don’t, then there won’t be any wildlife left to save”.
Raise your horns and join the Army Of The Trees in support of the metal non-profit.
Just listening to “Army Of The Trees” helps support Savage Lands. 100% of the song’s royalties fund the musician-run non-profit’s preservation efforts in Costa Rica.
"Black Rock Heart"
"Ruling Queen"
"The Last Howl"
"No Remedy"
"Out Of Breath"
"Better Man"
"Never Be Up"
"Army Of The Trees"
"Visions of Life"
"Addicted"
Pirates never rest, nor do the raging seas! Immediately after touring all over Europe and the UK, Visions Of Atlantis surprises their devotees with another stunner and announces the upcoming digital live series, Armada Live Over Europe.
By releasing songs and respective live videos over the upcoming weeks, the international symphonic metal frontrunners keep the excitement at the highest level, starting the video series with “To Those Who Choose To Fight” and “The Land Of The Free”. The live video captures the explosive energy of a Visions Of Atlantis live show and allows listeners to relive the matchless spirit of the past tour at home.
Contemporarily on all digital platforms, the live album will take shape in five parts, starting today with the first two tracks. Follow the band’s socials to discover the release dates of all five chapters of this adventure.
Armada Live Over Europe contains a live version of each song cut from the tour’s setlist, with recordings from various shows and venues. “To Those Who Choose To Fight” and “The Land Of The Free” set the stage for this adventurous ride and were the first tracks the band performed at La Rayonne in Lyon, France on October 9. It’s also the opening track from Visions Of Atlantis’ latest full-length album, Pirates II – Armada, which marks the band’s most successful record to date, entering international charts at top positions, such as #5 on the German and Austrian Official Album Charts, #4 on the UK Rock & Metal Charts and #2 on the US Hard Music Album Charts, just to name a few.
Both live songs are now available on all streaming services worldwide and arrive alongside equally palpable live videos. Stay tuned, as there’s more to come already next week. Until then, enjoy the gripping live video below and make sure to get your tickets for the upcoming shows in Germany and the US.
Pirate Queen Clementine states: “This Armada tour has been the most exciting experience in Visions Of Atlantis’ history and we are delighted to keep it alive with this brand new live video series! Whether you’ve attended one of these shows or not, this will be a beautiful way to board the ship again and experience our Armada show from another perspective! Every video was recorded during the tour, in various cities, honoring our Sailors from all over Europe! Be a part of this digital adventure and mark the date down: every Tuesday, magic gates open and you can board our ship and gather with many other pirates! Together, we are the Armada!”
Armada Live Over Europe shows the gripping stage presence and artistic high-quality of Visions Of Atlantis. The pirate crew, fronted by vocalists Clémentine Delauney and Michele Guaitoli, have managed to create their very own inimitable universe with symphonic heaviness and stunning visuals, and encourages their listeners to join them into a world where spirits are free, hearts are true, and where light always rules over darkness, whatever the cost. Fans can expect a colorful range of songs, mostly taken from the band’s previous two records Pirates (2022) and Pirates II – Armada (2024).
Armada Live Over Europe tracklisting;
"To Those Who Choose To Fight"
"The Land Of The Free"
"Monsters"
"Heroes Of The Dawn"
"Where The Sky And Ocean Blend"
"Clocks"
"Legion Of The Seas"
"Tonight I’m Alive"
"Collide"
"Hellfire"
"The Dead Of The Sea"
"Clemi’s Speech"
"Underwater"
"Pirates Will Return"
"Melancholy Angel"
"Master The Hurricane"
"Armada"
"To Those Who Choose To Fight" / "The Land Of The Free" video:
Visions Of Atlantis have returned their sites to North America, announcing the "Armada Over North America" tour. The voyage begins April 2 in Mechanicsburg, PA and will plunder several major ports along the way including Baltimore, New York, Seattle, and Los Angeles before the closing celebration in Dallas, TX on April 29.
Clémentine Delauney proclaims: "We are delighted to finally announce that we’re bringing our wonderful Armada show over the Atlantic! Join this unique adventure, rich in colors and emotions, a massive pirate party! Come sing along your favorites tunes, jump, shout and row onboard our ship! We are so looking forward to many memorable moments with our North American Sailors and we can’t wait to sail over there
Crypta, the Brazilian death metal powerhouse, delivered a thunderous performance on the Ronnie James Dio Main Stage at Bloodstock Open Air 2024 on August 10. Known for their ferocity and crushing sound, the band emerged as one of the festival’s standout acts. Led by the formidable bassist-vocalist Fernanda Lira and the relentless drummer Luana Dametto, Crypta has been rising rapidly in the metal scene since their formation in 2019.
Their music blends brutal death metal with old-school thrash, earning a loyal global following. At Bloodstock, they unleashed a crushing setlist featuring tracks from their debut album Echoes Of The Soul, alongside newer releases. A standout moment came with their performance of "Stronghold", a track embodying their intense and aggressive style. The crowd was captivated as Crypta delivered a flawless, high-energy show, further solidifying their status as a rising force in extreme metal.
This performance of "Poisonous Apathy" is a must-watch, showcasing the band's unmatched stage presence and precision.
Italian symphonic metal band, Rossometile, are excited to share their new single and video "Geminus". The song is the third single from their last album, Gehenna, released back in May.
The band commented: "This track dives into the concept of "entanglement", the invisible connection between souls, echoing a harmony that unites us beyond the physical realm. Stripping away our fears and limitations, we can recognize the deep ties that shape our evolution and remind us we’re all connected in this vast universe. Through the other, we rediscover ourselves as a connected whole, where 1+1 is not simply 2, but an 11."
The song is available for streaming here, and you can find the video below. Order the album here, and/or here.
Gehenna tracklisting:
"Gehenna"
"Voci Dal Deserto"
"Magdalena"
"Pasionaria (Frida)"
"Sangue e Seduzione"
"La Rosa d’Inverno"
"Dat Melti Min Modir"
"Valhalla"
"Stella del Mattino"
"Geminus"
"Duet With Satan"
"The Dying Mermaid"
The original lineup behind the G3 touring concept returns with "Reunion Live", released January 31, 2025 worldwide on earMUSIC. The album captures the guitar magic of Joe Satriani, Eric Johnson and Steve Vai on their sold-out 2024 U.S. tour. This electrifying reunion features three guitar icons who first joined forces in 1996 and showcases boundary-pushing performances that define G3.
Fans will enjoy full sets from each guitarist, including hits like Satriani's "Sahara", Johnson's "Cliffs Of Dover" and Vai's "For The Love Of God", along with a thrilling encore jam of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and STEPPENWOLF covers.
See the official visualizer for Vai's "Zeus In Chains" below.
"Reunion Live" is much more than "just" a live album. It's a full album-length se from each artist, plus a collaborative supergroup LP and the first G3 release in 20 years.
The deluxe edition features a different coloured vinyl for each artist, a special splatter LP for the encore jam, and a 64-page photo book, divided into artist and jam chapters, with the full program also on 2 CDs. It is also available in a 2CD digipack with a 16-page photo booklet and, 4 LP gatefold and digital download.
Satriani says: "This live album recorded at The Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles captures all the energy of the live performances while shining a spotlight on the ever-evolving art of playing the electric guitar."
Since its inception in 1996, the G3 tour has consistently brought together guitar legends for unforgettable performances. Each edition of the tour has featured guitar virtuosos performing solo sets that showcased their individual mastery, followed by electrifying jam sessions that highlighted their collaborative brilliance.
Over the years, G3 has seen iconic guitarists like Yngwie Malmsteen, John Petrucci and Paul Gilbert, among others, joining the ranks. Expanding beyond the U.S., the tour has evolved into a global celebration of guitar excellence, uniting fans and artists from different generations and genres, making it a must-see event for guitar aficionados worldwide. The G3 experience represents more than just a series of performances — it has become a platform for creative collaboration and a testament to the enduring power of guitar music.
Vai says: "A G3 tour is always an electrifying experience, and this particular G3 tour with Eric and Joe was a career highlight for me. To be able to hit the road with old friends and be in that lit-up environment of the stage and communicate on the deepest musical levels with friends is a privilege and honour, especially with such incredible players as Eric and Joe, who delivered magnificently at these shows."
Johnson states: "Playing with Joe and Steve was an affirmation that while we all want to push the envelope of musical boundaries; we also want to share our heart experience and a soulful communication of the music that we have been allowed to partake of in our own lives."
Satriani says: "Reuniting with Eric and Steve this year, commemorating the very first G3 tour of '96, was nothing short of glorious. They were the first two guitarists I called when planning G3's maiden voyage, so, this reunion was a confirmation of our special connection. Storming the stage with two of my favorite musical giants, celebrating our shared roots as well as our unique differences, once again proved to be a winning formula."
Track listing (all formats):
01. Gravitas (Vai)
02. Avalancha (Vai)
03. Little Pretty Intro (Vai)
04. Little Pretty (Vai)
05. Tender Surrender (Vai)
06. Zeus In Chains (Vai)
07. Teeth Of The Hydra (Vai)
08. For The Love Of God (Vai)
09. Land Of 1000 Dances (Johnson)
10. Righteous (Johnson)
11. Trail Of Tears (Johnson)
12. On-Ramp Improv (Johnson)
13. Freeway Jam (Johnson)
14. Desert Rose (Johnson)
15. Venus Reprise (Johnson)
16. Raspberry Jam Delta-V (Satriani)
17. Surfing With The Alien (Satriani)
18. Satch Boogie (Satriani)
19. Sahara (Satriani)
20. Nineteen Eighty (Satriani)
21. Big Bad Moon (Satriani)
22. Always With Me, Always With You (Satriani)
23. Sumer Song (Satriani)
24. Introductions
25. Crossroads (Encore Jam)
26. Spanish Castle Magic (Encore Jam)
27. Born To Be Wild (Encore Jam)
Swedish melodic black metal band, Mörk Gryning, have shared the new song, "Black Angel", featured on the band's new album, Fasornas Tid, out on December 13 via Season Of Mist. Listen to the track below:
Mörk Gryning was founded in Stockholm, Sweden in 1993 by Goth Gorgon and Draakh Kimera. Two years later they released their debut album Tusen År Har Gått (1995), recorded and mixed at Unisound Studios, by legendary producer Dan Swanö and released by No Fashion. The album is one of the milestones of the ‘90s Swedish black metal scene.
The group returned to action in November 1996, working at Sunlight Studios together with Tomas Skogsberg and Dismember’s Fred Estby to craft the Return Fire album. Over the following years, three more albums were released, for example Maelstrom Chaos with new guitarist Avathar, a scene veteran, recorded at the legendary Grieghallen Studios Bergen, Norway.
Ever since the debut album, Tusen år har gått…, Mörk Gryning has refused to follow in the footsteps of others and walked their own paths – something which is made very clear on the 2003 release Pieces of Primal Expressionism, an experimental and heavy progressive release recorded at Dug Out, produced by Daniel Bergstrand. After a couple of years of touring and festival performances, the band was put on hold.
Returning to the scene again in 2017, the band performed an exclusive live show in Stockholm playing all the songs from the debut album and some other songs from the back catalogue. This ended in releasing the 4-song live record called Live at Kraken. During the pandemic the comeback album Hinsides Vrede was released to much critical acclaim with many of the songs today being the backbone of their live shows.
Now that they've returned, Mörk Gryning are more active than ever. This year, the band announced their seventh album. Fasnornas Tid pays a brutal homage to the scene's raw ferocity and ageless spirit with a dystopian symphony that's driven by an insatiable hunger for self-destruction.
Available formats:
- Digital Download
- CD Digipak
- 1x12" Vinyl Gatefold - Black
- 1x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Transparent Red
- 1x12" Coloured Vinyl Gatefold - Crystal Clear & Silver Marbled
Tzadok, the alternative rock/metal band founded in 2018 in Mexico, have released their new single, "Feel The Blood". Stream/download the single here, and watch a video below.
"Feel the Blood" is a single taken from the band's upcoming album, We Are Tzadok, due for release on December 6, via Wormholedeath.
The album, We Are Tzadok, continues to reflect the diverse musical style that has long defined Tzadok. It blends various metal genres, including metalcore, death metal, power metal, heavy metal, and folk metal. The band refuses to be confined to a single categ
h studio album, Spirit Of The Wild, in May 1995 via Atlantic Records. Nugent has shared the video below, featuring a performance of the album track, "Lovejacker", filmed that same year at Walnut Creek Amphitheater in Raleigh, NC. Watch below:
On November 3, Dream Theater brought their 40th Anniversary tour to the Atlas Arena in Łódź, Poland. Fan-filmed video of the entire show can be viewed below.
Setlist:
Act I
"Metropolis Pt. 1: The Miracle And The Sleeper" (First time since 2017)
"Overture 1928"
"Strange Déjà Vu"
"The Mirror" (First time since 2014, with "Lie" outro)
"Panic Attack" (First time since 2015)
"Barstool Warrior" (First time with Mike Portnoy)
"Hollow Years" (First time since 2010, demo version)
"Constant Motion" (First time since 2015)
"As I Am" (First time since 2019)
Act II
"Night Terror" (Live debut)
"This Is The Life" (First time since 2012, first time with Mike Portnoy)
"Under A Glass Moon" (First time since 2017)
"Vacant" (First time since 2006)
"Stream Of Consciousness" (First time since 2004)
"Octavarium" (First time in full since 2006)
Encore
"Home"
"The Spirit Carries On"
"Pull Me Under"
Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy appeared on the October 24 broadcast of Sirius XM's Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk. During the interview , Portnoy revealed that the band filmed the 40th Anniversary tour kick-off show in London, England on October 20th - Portnoy's first show with the band in 14 years - "for posterity", and that there are plans for an official concert recording.
Portnoy: "We do have plans to film our show in Paris (November 23) for a live Blu-ray and a live album. The thing is we're gonna be on the road till the end of next year, and the new album doesn't even come out till February, so this world tour is gonna kinda go through two phases. The whole first phase - which would be the first six to eight months - will be the 40th-anniversary reunion celebration, but at some point mid-next year, we're gonna transition into a full tour cycle supporting the upcoming album. So even with the live album, that's probably one of two releases that we'll do because we're gonna wanna do a proper live release once we start playing the new album as well."
An Evening with Dream Theater 40th Anniversary Tour 2024 – 2025:
November
9 - Oslo, Norway - Spektrum
10 - Copenhagen, Denmark - Poolen (SOLD OUT)
12 - Luxembourg - Rockhal
13 - Zurich, Switzerland - The Hall
14 - Lyon, France - Halle Tony Garnier
16 - Lisbon, Portugal - MEO Arena
17 - Madrid, Spain - La Cubierta de Leganés
20 - Stuttgart, Germany - Beethovensaal (SOLD OUT)
21 - Frankfurt, Germany - Jahrhundderthalle
23 - Paris, France - Adidas Arena
24 - Amsterdam - AFAS Live (SOLD OUT)
December
7 - Mexico City, Mexico - Explanada Estadio Azteca
10 - Belo Horizonte, Brazil - Befly Hall
13 - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Vivo Rio
15 - Sao Paulo, Brazil - Vibra
16 - Curitiba, Brazil - Live Curitiba
17 - Porto Alegre, Brazil - Araújo Vianna
19 - Buenos Aires, Argentina - Movistar Arena
21 - Santiago, Chile - Movistar Arena
22 - Santiago, Chile - Movistar Arena
February
7 - Philadelphia, PA - The Met
8 - Raleigh, NC - Martin Marietta Center
10 - Nashville, TN - Opry House
11 - Atlanta, GA - Coca-Cola Roxy
12 - Biloxi, MS - Hard Rock Café
14 - Houston, TX - 713 Music Hall
15 - Dallas, TX - Texas Trust CU
16 - San Antonio, TX - Majestic
18 - Phoenix, AZ - Arizona Financial Center
19 - Highland, CA - Yaamava Theater
21 - Las Vegas, NV - The Chelsea
22 - Los Angeles, CA - YouTube Theater
Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro, best known for his work with MEGADETH and ANGRA, has shared the Leo Liberti Films-directed music video for his new solo single, "Point Of No Return". The track is taken from his latest solo album, "Theory Of Mind", which is available for pre-order at kikoloureirostore.com. Products will be shipped on November 10.
Kiko states about "Point Of No Return": "This track captures the irreversible shift in our collective journey — both as individuals and as a society — toward a future where humanity and technology are inextricably linked. We stand at the edge of a monumental threshold, a point from which there is no going back. 'Point Of No Return' reflects this moment, where the advancement of artificial intelligence has reached a level that will forever change how we live, think, and interact.
"In both personal and technological evolution, there comes a moment when everything changes — when you cross into a deeper understanding, and once you see it, there's no way to unsee it. This song embodies that experience. We're at the brink of a new reality where AI is no longer a tool we control but a presence we must coexist with. As AI approaches the ability to understand, interact, and perhaps even develop its own form of awareness, humanity is being forced to adapt.
"This isn't just about technology evolving — it's about us evolving as well. We are entering a post-human era, where the line between human thought and artificial cognition is becoming blurred. 'Point Of No Return' parallels this moment, when we, as humans, will need to redefine what it means to be conscious, creative, and alive in a world shared with intelligent machines.
"Musically, the song drives forward with relentless energy, symbolizing the unstoppable march of progress. There is no hesitation, no chance to pause. It mirrors the acceleration of technology development, where each breakthrough pushes us further into this new reality. We are not just spectators but active participants in a transformation that will change the essence of what it means to be human."
Kiko previously stated about "Theory Of Mind": "When I set out to write this album, 'Theory Of Mind', it felt more like an exploration than a project. Music, for me, has always been about uncovering the hidden layers of thought and emotion, and this album took me into new territories — ones where psychology and technology intersect with the core of what makes us human. But this wasn't just a conceptual or intellectual exercise for me. I had personal experiences that led me to create this music, experiences that reshaped how I see the world and how we understand each other.
"The concept of 'theory of mind' isn't new. It's a psychological term, first developed to describe the unique human ability to recognize and interpret the mental states of others. We use it every day, often unconsciously, to navigate the social world, to empathize, to predict what others might feel or think. It becomes even more profound when applied to those who experience life differently for whom 'theory of mind' may not come naturally. In them, the gaps in understanding can be bridges to deeper ways of seeing the world. This album seeks to capture that complexity — the struggle, the beauty, and the unknown that comes with interpreting the minds of others. I've seen this first-hand, both in my own life and through people close to me. Watching someone struggle to connect with others on an intuitive level or seeing how people are often misunderstood because they process the world differently — it all started to shape my thinking. How do we understand those whose minds work in ways we can't immediately grasp? How do they understand us? These questions weighed heavily on me and became a driving force behind this album. I wanted to reflect on those personal experiences musically, creating an emotional landscape where the listener could step inside that journey, even if just for a moment.
But there's another layer to this album that extends beyond psychology and into the future of technology.
"We are on the verge of a new era where machines — artificial intelligence — are approaching what scientists refer to as 'theory of mind'. This marks the moment when AI not only calculates and processes information but begins to perceive, empathize, and interact as humans do. What intrigued me is how AI, now convincingly mimic human understanding of mental states, even outperforming humans in 'theory of mind' tests. It's one thing to create music that evokes human emotion, but what does it mean when a machine can understand and resonate with those emotions too? Imagine a world where technology not only responds but feels.
"Each track on the album is a chapter in this story, and I hope listeners feel the evolution. The opening song begins with an intricate awakening motif, almost like the first realization of self-awareness, like when a child first grasps that other people have thoughts, emotions, and experiences separate from their own. The music builds from there, layering with complexity, much like how we learn to navigate the minds of others — tentative at first, and then more certain, with moments of tension and harmony.
There's a rhythmic pulse throughout the album. It represents that shared essence we all have the need to connect, to feel understood. I incorporated melodies and counter-melodies, verses and choruses, peaceful and aggressive, dissonant or consonant that mirror the interplay of thoughts in dialogue, where communication is imperfect but still profound. The tension and release echo the internal conflicts we all experience—wondering if we truly understand others or if we're just projecting our own thoughts onto them.
"There's a vulnerability in the tracks' melodies, a fragile but fierce will to connect. In a way, it's a meditation on empathy, on the effort it can take to truly see someone for who they are.
The use of AI as an inspiration for some of the album's themes might seem abstract. As I wrote and composed, I kept coming back to the question: What happens when machines learn to understand us on an emotional level? When we teach them to interpret our mental states? Does it make them more human, or does it reveal more about what it means to be human ourselves? Should I let AI start making all the music, what about me, how can I express myself?
"'Theory Of Mind' isn't just about understanding — it's about the desire to understand. Whether it's a person who feels misunderstood, or a future AI learning to perceive our emotions, the album is an invitation to explore that space. To sit with the complexities, to feel the tension, and ultimately, to wonder — where do we go from here?"
Kiko stated about the song "Mind Rise", which was released in late September: "After years of playing in massive arenas and headlining festivals, there's something refreshing about focusing on the fundamentals. The new song taps into that, where catchy, straightforward guitar riffs take center stage, using a deep, lower-register pentatonic scale to immediately engage the listener. In my mind, the verse goes: Carlos Santana meets Jeff Beck, with sinuous, curvy lines where slight variations in playing the same note make a huge impact on the theme. As the saying goes, 'The devil is in the details,' and here those details shape the entire vibe of the track."
He continued: "The song kicks off in E minor, one of the most commonly used keys in rock guitar. But just when it feels familiar, it shifts into G major, its relative key, lifting the track and creating a sense of elevation. The dynamics between these two bring energy and keep the listener's attention without overcomplicating the composition. In this way, the song avoids relying only on a traditional chorus. Instead, it uses a strong, recurring guitar riff as its focal point. And then there's the suspense. The kind that lingers in the air like a shadow in the corner of a smoky bar, where a figure waits, watching, calculating the perfect moment to strike. That's the moment when the Neapolitan chord slips in, a classical technique thrown into the mix to build tension. The anticipation of the solo creeps in with echoes of the main melody, but this time under the command of a different chord progression. But as with any music tale, repetition is the thread that binds it all together. The riff and chorus-like sections repeat, reinforcing that music doesn't need to be overly complicated. Sometimes, it's the simple — like a direct riff — that leaves the strongest impression.
"Listen closely, and you'll hear it. Let me know what you feel when listening to the song."
Earlier in September, Kiko released another new solo single, "Out Of Nothing". He said of the track at the time: "My new single 'Out Of Nothing' emerges not from a plan but from the mystery of creation itself. When I compose, I do not think, nor do I theorize — I let my hands glide over the fretboard, as if they already know the way, discovering paths, rejecting others, always searching for the feeling that satisfies, even for a moment.
"'Out Of Nothing' kicks off with a bold tritone interval — 'Diabolus In Musica,' that notorious interval known for its tension. It's a simple, direct statement that immediately shifts the key, setting up a dynamic riff alternating between A and D with their tritones. The intensity ramps up with 16th notes that launch the track into high gear.
"The verse is simple, almost baroque in its harmony. A Tonic and Dominant, Am to E7, arpeggiated with hybrid picking over the rhythm of Baião, a syncopation from the northeastern reaches of Brazil. The original music from this area also incorporates many arpeggiated themes from European heritage. And then, bringing contrast, the chromatic lines arrive to challenge this basic cadence, introducing the mediant progression—Am to Fm—
For the chorus, I take things up a notch, moving to the fifth degree and playing with the tension between E major and minor, As I didn't feel the chorus should be completely happy and uplifting.
"In the middle of the song, I let the existing elements repeat, develop, and transform, as one might do in a symphony or a sonata. The arpeggios return, expanding the baroque spirit, and then, unexpectedly, nylon strings echo from a distant past. Before long, the tritone chord progression returns, but now with more complex lines and a mix of techniques.
"But I will not leave you lost. The verse and chorus return, as familiar as old friends. For in this song, though I take you far, I am careful never to lose you entirely."
In November 2023, Kiko announced his decision to "extend" his absence from MEGADETH's touring activities, explaining that he didn't want to "hinder any of the band's plans or the hard work of all the incredible people involved in the tour."
Kiko revealed in September 2023 that he would sit out the next leg of MEGADETH's "Crush The World" tour in order to stay home with his children back in Finland.
One day after Kiko's announcement that he was "extending" his absence from MEGADETH's touring activities, band leader Dave Mustaine released a statement in which he said that he loves Loureiro and respects and fully supports Kiko's decision. He described Kiko as "a top-notch professional, a maestro" and thanked the guitarist "for his dedication and hard work these past nine years, helping us to achieve a Grammy on 'Dystopia' and the additional awards we have received on this latest record 'The Sick... The Dying...And The Dead'." Mustaine added: "I could not have done this without Kiko Loureiro."
MEGADETH played its first concert with Kiko's replacement, Teemu Mäntysaari on September 6, 2023 at Revel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The 37-year-old Mäntysaari was born in Tampere, Finland and began playing guitar at the age of 12. In 2004, he joined the band WINTERSUN. He has also been a member of SMACKBOUND since 2015.
Loureiro officially joined MEGADETH in April 2015, about five months after Chris Broderick's exit from the group.
In a recent interview with Japan's Young Guitar, Brazilian guitarist Kiko Loureiro was asked about the possibility of a future guest appearance with ANGRA. He responded: "In the last two albums from ANGRA, not being in the band, I did record a guest solo. I was touring a lot and I have small kids, so I didn't wanna travel more to do a guest appearance. It might be in the future. I'm friends of everybody. I have a great history with ANGRA. Same goes with MEGADETH. I'm still friends of everybody, and I don't wanna burn bridges."
He continued: "I'm proud of all the albums I recorded with ANGRA. I'm proud of the albums that I recorded with MEGADETH, the two albums I recorded with MEGADETH, all the concerts and tours we did together. So, guest appearances, recording a solo, helping somehow or just hanging, I'm happy to do it, because I like all those people as friends and family, because I shared so many great moments of my life with the guys from ANGRA, of course, many, many years, and also almost nine years in MEGADETH as well."
Guitarist/singer/producer Dario Lorina, best-known as a longtime member of BLACK LABEL SOCIETY (2014 to present),is launching his brand new band, DARK CHAPEL.
Led by Lorina and also featuring Brody DeRozie (guitar),Mike Gunn (bass),and Luis Silva (drums),the band's airtight guitar-craft and sludgy grooves with magnetic melodies, bluesy phrasing, and grunge mystique are spotlighted on their debut album, "Spirit In The Glass", which is due out February 28, 2025 on MNRK Heavy.
The album's first single, "Glass Heart", was released today on all digital outlets. A video for the song can be seen below.
Dario's gritty delivery on the song takes hold on a hypnotic hook, bleeding into a fret-burning lead punctuated by dramatic bends. "'Glass Heart' is a lyrical and almost cinematic musical story that started with a riff and lyrically stemmed from emotion," he reveals. "That emotion created an imagery for me that I began writing about as if that feeling was a painting I was writing to describe."
Striking an elusive balance between dark and heavy, ethereal and passionate, "Spirit In The Glass" is, as Lorina describes, "a culmination of all artistic influence, whether musical or otherwise."
Lorina began his professional career in 2006 when he was 16 as the touring guitarist with the late Jani Lane (ex-WARRANT). At 19, he joined veteran metal act LIZZY BORDEN whom he toured with for four years. He released two instrumental records with Mike Varney on Shrapnel Records in 2013 and 2017, respectively, titled "Dario Lorina" and "Death Grip Tribulations". On January 1, 2014 he joined BLACK LABEL SOCIETY and has since been touring worldwide alongside Zakk Wylde, performing on guitar, piano and backing vocals ever since. Lorina dueled solos with Wylde on BLACK LABEL SOCIETY's 2022 album "Doom Crew Inc.", and he joined Zakk Wylde on the January 2022 cover of Guitar World magazine.
"The guitar never really left my hands," he laughs. Years of woodshedding followed. At 16 years old, he answered the call to audition for Jani Lane and found himself on the road with the ex-WARRANT frontman shortly thereafter.
"Spirit In The Glass" track listing:
01. Afterglow
02. Hollow Smile
03. We Are Remade
04. Corpse Flower
05. Glass Heart
06. Dead Weight
07. Dark Waters
08. All That Remains
09. Gravestoned Humanity
10. Bullet In Our Chamber
Former Sabaton guitarist / Majestica frontman Tommy Johansson has shared his weekly cover, this time performing the ZZ Top classic, "Legs". Check out the video below.
Symphonic power metal quartet, Majestica, have announced their brand new studio album, Power Train, which will see the light of day on February 7 via Nuclear Blast Records. After more than four years since their last album, the Swedes are ready to set the bar high once again with their new long player and are presenting their fans what is their strongest album to date.
Power Train is a spellbinding experience that awakens sleeping dreams with powerful riffs and epic choruses. The enchantment rises like a breath of stars, propelling listeners into the heart of a fairytale world. This is particularly evident in the album's first single. With the title track "Power Train", Majestica leaves an exciting first impression and also presents a strong music video, which you can witness below.
Tommy Johansson comments: "Get ready for explosive power metal with a ”can’t stop singing along”-chorus in the new track 'Power Train'. The video literally takes you onboard the Power Train with elements taken from the entire album."
Stream the single here, and pre-order/pre-save the new album here.
When it came to the process of recording and putting all the pieces together, the band did not change a lot compared to the last projects. Again the music was written, recorded, and produced by Majestica themselves.
"Like our previous albums this one is also produced by ourselves, and we recorded most parts in our new place Majestic Studios. For mixing we went back to Jonas Kjellgren as we have been very happy with the sound of A Christmas Carol and Metal United," says bassist Chris Davidsson.
Regarding the amazing artwork for Power Train, Chris explains: "For the artwork we teamed up with Jan Yrlund / Darkgrove design. It invites you to join this majepic ride of the Power Train, imagine standing there on the platform eagerly waiting, and you hear ”all aboard”!"
Power Train contains ten brand new tracks and will be available in the following formats: CD Jewel (incl. booklet), Vinyl, and digital.
Power Train tracklisting:
"Power Train"
"No Pain, No Gain"
"Battle Cry"
"Megatrue"
"My Epic Dragon"
"Thunder Power"
"A Story In The Night"
"Go Higher"
"Victorious"
"Alliance Anthem"
"Power Train" video:
Shortly before the release of their new album, Majestica will play a few shows, perfect to
Night In Gales will release their ninth studio album, entitled Shadowreaper, on December 6th via Apostasy Records. They have released an official video for the new single, "Into The Evergrey", which can be viewed below.
"Into The Evergrey"
"The Horrors Of Endlessness"
"Open The Sun"
"The Nihilist Delta"
"Spirals"
"Dead Inside"
"Window To The End"
"Sculptured And Defleshed"
"Walk Of Infinity"
Since their ‘return’ with 2018’s The Last Sunsets, Night In Gales are consistent in the best sense of that word. They constantly deliver melodic death metal that stays not only true to the core of the genre itself, but is also on par with its classics. And another detail will catch the attention of everyone checking their album titles: There is something more about them than just the absence of light. The “Shadowreaper” symbolizes the final stage of the finiteness of all existence: it shreds the lost souls - aimlessly caught up in “The Black Stream” – so that nothing remains. He is also the incarnation of our nightmares: a stalking horror made of shadows and burnt remains, longing for us all in the final hour.
Musically speaking, Shadowreaper is the next logical step after The Black Stream and kicks right in with "Into The Evergrey", which opens with tasteful acoustic guitars that lead into a driving monster of a song. The following "The Horrors Of Endlessness" feels like a relentless warning against the idea of eternity. While Night In Gales keep the overall speed quite high, they are also able to take the foot off the gas pedal to allow mellow moments like in "The Nihilist Delta" to shine through all ongoing darkness. While
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