Canada’s Unleash The Archers recently announced the upcoming release of their sixth studio album, Phantoma, out May 10 via Napalm Records.
Following the album's first two singles "Green & Glass" and “Ghosts In The Mist”, today, the Vancouver based five-piece has revealed their soaring third single, “Seeking Vengeance”, along with a new music video. Beginning with a fast paced guitar lead and modernized power metal attacks, the song entrances with a powerful chorus and intricate dual solo.
On the new concept album, listeners join protagonist Phantoma, a Phase 4 / Network Tier 0 unit - model A, on an inspiring yet harrowing journey as she discovers the brutal truths behind the manufactured sheen of social media posturing on a dystopian, near-future planet earth. With the band’s one-of-a-kind blend of power metal, traditional heavy metal, modern prog and pop sensibilities, Phantoma spins a web of sharp musicality, high sci-fi concept and important social commentary.
Brittney Slayes of Unleash The Archers says about “Seeking Vengeance”: "This is the moment in the story when Phantoma comes to terms with what she must do and who she must become in order to do it. We worked really hard to make sure the music reflects the energy of the moment, and I think the video does a great job of portraying the inner struggle as well. This was filmed and edited by the boys at RuneGate Studio and they focused on using lighting and different lenses to create a dynamic visual experience. The song is the darkest moment of the album but it is juxtaposed with an uplifting chorus melody that was actually inspired by classic Disney 'hero anthems'. This one was a unanimous single choice for us and we can't wait to play it live for you all at our upcoming shows! Hope you enjoy."
Intertwining reality with imagination, Unleash The Archers were inspired to utilize elements of AI during the creation of Phantoma, in keeping with its innovative theme. Frontwoman and lyricist Brittney Slayes conjured the album's concept in 2021; before the swarm of pressing commentary surrounding AI began to reach an all-time high.
The band weaved electronic and synthwave elements throughout the album’s 10 colossal anthems, which - in line with its theme - prove much darker and heavier in comparison to the bright positivity of Abyss. Album opener “Human Era” sets the tone with imagery of a bleak, windswept futurescape that crescendos headlong into the breakneck pace of power metal bastion “Ph4/NT0mA” - a masterwork of dueling guitar solos and vocal acrobatics. Trad-metal influenced “Buried In Code” lights the way with pummeling rhythms before the album’s path turns dark on heavy metal hardened “The Collective”, with Brittney Slayes’ warm tones inviting the listener to ‘join or stand aside’! Hair-raising first single “Green & Glass” unveils the truth before the upbeat 80s flavored “Gods In Decay” and the extraordinary balladic anthem “Give It Up Or Give It All” showcase the varied song writing prowess of Unleash The Archers’ modern era. A trifecta of concept closers begins with the moody “Ghosts In The Mist”, leading into the soaring yet menacing “Seeking Vengeance” before closing with the bittersweet tale of “Blood Empress”.
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 their towering musical trajectory.
Phantoma will be available in the following formats:
- Earbook Edition with 2CD (2 Bonus Tracks and instrumental version of the album), 7" Single (2 bonus tracks on Black vinyl), 60 pp booklet (Napalm Mail Order only - limited to 1000)
- -2LP Gatefold in Phantoma Cristallo Multicolored Splatter (Napalm Mail Order only - limited to 300) - NEW!
- 2LP Gatefold in Marbled Orange Red with 24 page vinyl booklet and artprint (Napalm Mail Order only - limited to 300) - SOLD OUT!
- 2LP Gatefold in Glow In the Dark (Napalm Mail Order only - limited to 300)
- 2LP Gatefold in Splatter Aquamarine Orange (Napalm International Mail Order only - limited to 300)
- 2LP Gatefold in Transparent Lime Green (Napalm North American Mail Order only - limited to 300)
- 2LP Gatefold in Silver (North American indie retail only - limited to 700)
- 2LP Gatefold in Black
- Cassette Tape Edition in Fluorescent Green with White Print (Napalm Mail Order only - limited to 200)
- Jewel Case CD Edition
- Digital Album
"Human Era"
"Ph4/NT0mA"
"Buried In Code"
"The Collective"
"Green & Glass"
"Gods In Decay"
"Give It Up Or Give It All"
"Ghosts In The Mist"
"Seeking Vengeance"
"Blood Empress"
“Ghosts In The Mist” video:
"Green & Glass" video:
Unleash The Archers will tour across the globe in 2024, with dates already announced in North America, Europe, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. See below for all currently booked tour dates.
European Festivals:
July
5 - Ballenstedt, Germany - Rock Harz
6 - Knislinge, Sweden - Time To Rock
12 - Visovice, Czech Republic - Masters Of Rock
19 - Laukaa, Finland - John Smith Fest
21 - Baile Figa, RO @ Celtic Transylvania
August
2 - Wacken, Germany - Wacken Open Air
9 - Villena, Spain - Leyendas Del Rock
10 - Walton-On-Trent, UK - Bloodstock
Supporting Powerwolf in North America:
August
29 - Los Angeles, CA - The Hollywood Palladium
31 - Denver, CO - The Ogden Theatre
September
3 - Chicago, IL - The Riviera Theatre
4 - Cleveland, OH - The Agora Theatre
5 - Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore
7 - Tampa, FL - Jannus Landing
8 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade
9 - Charlotte, NC - The Fillmore
12 - Philadelphia, PA - The Fillmore
13 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
14 - New York City, NY - Brooklyn Paramount
15 - Laval, QC - Place Bell
Unleash The Archers lineup:
Brittney Slayes - Vocals
Scott Buchanan - Drums
Grant Truesdell - Guitar, Vocals
Andrew Kingsley - Guitar, Vocals
Nick Miller - Bass
Using royalties from their first ever-single, Savage Lands recently protected 60,000 square feet of Costa Rican rainforest from getting chopped down. But on their new single, "Black Rock Heart", these angry metalheads are warning us that if we don't listen up, the world as we know it might not be around much longer.
Watch the video for "Black Rock Heart" featuring Kai Uwe Faust from Heilung and Chloé Trujillo below.
Just listening to "Black Rock Heart" helps support Savage Lands. 100% of the song's royalties fund the musician-run non-profit's preservation efforts in Costa Rica. Donations can also be made here.
Savage Land's first single was a fitting tribute to the endangered howler monkey. But even though it's still plenty heavy, "Black Rock Heart" aims at more spiritual concerns. The video begins with an ominous warning: the spirits of nature are reaching out to us... Of course, who else could represent these magical beings but visionary artist Chloé Trujillo and Heilung's chief of ceremonies Kai Uwe Faust.
Channeling the protective powers of an Obsidian stone, Chloé sends Kai to warn of the doomsday scenario that's unfolding right before our eyes. Don't mistake the derelict buildings or rusted heavy metal machinery that dot this deserted landscape for the work of AI. Savage Lands shot this video on location in Salton Sea, which is the site of the biggest environmental disaster in California history.
"That we tried to create an ocean just shows our own ignorance" says guitarist Sylvain Demercastel, who co-founded Savage Lands alongside Megadeth drummer Dirk Verbeuren. "The Salton Sea is a very symbolic area. It was the perfect place for us to shoot this video. Sadly, there's hardly a tree in sight."
Kai bangs on his hand drum. Still, even when he's screaming in the band's face, the message falls on deaf ears. Black Bomb A's Sebastian Poun strains his voice into a bat-like shriek before exploding on a room full of TVs, computers and other man-made creations that are supposed to make us happy.
"We wanted this song to reflect our mounting frustration with the way the real estate heat wave is destroying Costa Rica's ecosystem", says Sylvain. "Black Rock Heart" does sound angrier and more aggressive than what we've previously heard from Savage Lands. Sylvain shoots off a guitar solo that howls away like a flare gun, but the riff is a wicked stroke of downpicking that's only sharpened by the low end's blackened groove. "It's got a bit more black 'n' roll to it, which plays into the title."
But "Black Rock Heart" isn't all doom and gloom. Just as Chloé's clean singing cuts through those venomous shrieks like a salve, the song ends with a positive sign. The black arrow that falls from the sky is a final message for us to act on the benefit of our planet, before it's too late.
"That's the reason why we started Savage Lands", says Sylvain. "It's up to us to do something."
Kai and his fellow Heilung warriors are continuing to support Savage Lands on their 2024 tour dates. The Nordic collective are donating $1 for every ticket sold to the non-profit's ongoing forest preservation efforts in Costa Rica.
"The question is: 'Do you like to breath'?", Kai asks. "Do you like trees. Then you really should follow Savage Lands."
Savage Lands are planting their eco-friendly flag at Hellfest! They'll play the main stage on Friday, June 28, with help from some very special guests.
Stop by the Savage Lands booth to learn more about the green zones, nature sanctuaries and other preservation projects that they're building in Costa Rica. Make a donation and receive the chance to win a one-of-a-kind guitar.
"Soul Offering", the second single from the forthcoming Vale Of Pnath album, Between The Worlds Of Life And Death, is out now on all major digital platforms. The official video can be be seen below.
Vale Of Pnath will release their new album, Between The Worlds Of Life And Death, on CD, vinyl, and digital formats on May 24th via Willowtip Records.
The band released the following statement concerning the new album:
"It’s been five years since our last release, Accursed. The EP really was a new avenue for the band as we leaned further toward a more blackened approach stylistically. Having more of a tech death background, this EP was a way to lead our fans into the next era. Between The Worlds Of Life And Death is an album that really is just a continuation of what we started with Accursed. It captures the band's core sound, but also brings a newer and bold take on this brand of metal. We want this to be the most approachable album we have made for metal fans. We want people to put this on and be sucked in immediately, yet keep coming back for more.”
Between The Worlds Of Life And Death artwork and tracklisting:
"The Forgotten Path" (Intro)
"Silent Prayer"
"Soul Offering"
"Shadow"
"Uncertain Tomorrow"
"Beneath Ashen Skies"
"No Return, No Regret"
"Echoes Of The Past" (Interlude)
"Burning Light"
Vale Of Pnath will hit the road in May with co-headliners Abigail Williams, and special guests Summoning The Lich for a U.S. tour. Confirmed dates are as listed:
May
2 - Lawrence, KS - The Bottleneck
3 - St Louis, MO - Red Flag
4 - Milwaukee, WI - X-Ray Arcade
5 - Chicago, IL - Reggies Music Joint
7 - Cleveland , OH - No Class
8 - Nashville ,TN - The End
9 - Spartanburg, SC - Ground Zero
10 - Chapel Hill, NC - Local 506
11 - Birmingham, AL - LCY
13 - Austin, TX - Come And Take It Live
14 - Houston, TX - Secret Group
15 - Fort Worth, TX - Haltom Theater
17 - Colorado Springs, CO - The Black Sheep *
18 - Denver, CO - The Marquis Theater *
20 - Phoenix, AZ - The Underground *
21 - Las Vegas, NV - The Usual Place *
22 - San Diego, CA - Brick By Brick *
23 - San Luis Obispo, CA - Humdinger Brewing *
24 - Anaheim, CA - Chain Reaction *
25 - San Fransisco, CA - Neck Of The Woods *
26 - Sacramento, CA - Harlow’s *
* Dates with Summoning The Lich
(Tour poster design: Zac Shiffer. Band photo credit: Michelle Nisbit)
The Crosscut Films YouTube Channel has shared superscaled to 4K live videos of Van Halen's "5150" and "Finish What Ya Started". Check them out below.
Sammy Hagar will be joined by rock heavyweights and longtime bandmates Michael Anthony (bass, backing vocals), Jason Bonham (drums) and Joe Satriani (guitar) on The Best Of All Worlds 2024 Tour.
Produced by Live Nation and featuring special guests Loverboy, the 28-date The Best Of All Worlds tour will commence on July 13 in West Palm Beach, FL and will conclude on August 31 in St. Louis, MO. For tickets and more details, go to RedRocker.com.
The tour follows on the heels of the chart-topping success of The Collection II, the box set released in October 2023, featuring newly remastered versions of the four consecutive #1 albums released during the Hagar era of Van Halen: 5150 (1986), OU812 (1988), For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (1991), and Balance (1995). A reminder to fans of the arsenal of hits, many which haven’t been played live since the band’s 2004 reunion tour. Collectively, Anthony, Satriani and Bonham have played together in nearly every phase of Hagar’s career including Van Halen, Chickenfoot and The Circle, so fans can expect a setlist which draws from some of the biggest rock anthems of the last 4-decades, including, "Finish What Ya Started", "5150", "Your Love is Driving Me Crazy", "Best of Both Worlds", "Poundcake", "Sexy Little Thing", "One Way To Rock", "Right Now", "Good Enough", "Eagles Fly" and more. They’ve also enlisted legendary Australian musician, Rai Thistlethwayte on keyboard and backing vocals. The tour represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this band of brothers deliver one of the most legendary hits-packed live shows of their career.
“It’s crazy to think that it’ll be 20 years since Mikey and I played these songs with Van Halen on the 04’ Best of Both Worlds Tour,” said Hagar. “With Joe on board, we can take a deeper dive into those years. We’re going to touch on some hits from my entire career but seeing fans old and new really embrace the new collection set off something in Mikey and I. We were at my Birthday Bash in Cabo for my 76th and looked at each other and high fived, like ‘let’s do it.’ We pulled out a couple of them and it was an instant lovefest with the fans from our first riffs. The music we created is going to outlive us all. They deserve to be heard so it's time we go out and serve the fans that music, while we still can."
Tour dates:
July
13 - West Palm Beach, FL - iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
14 - Tampa, FL - MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
16 - Alpharetta, GA - Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
19 - Charlotte, NC - PNC Music Pavilion
20 - Bristow, VA - Jiffy Lube Live
22 - Saratoga Springs, NY - Broadview Stage at SPAC
24 - Bridgeport, CT - Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater
26 - Mansfield, MA - Xfinity Center
27 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center
29 - Cuyahoga Falls, OH - Blossom Music Center
31 - Toronto, ON - Budweiser Stage
August
2 - Clarkston, MI - Pine Knob Music Theatre
3 - Tinley Park, IL - Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
9 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena
11 - Morrison, CO - Red Rocks Amphitheatre
13 - Spokane, WA - Airway Heights, WA BECU Live at Northern Quest
14 - Ridgefield, WA - RV Inn Style Resort Amphitheater
16 - Wheatland, CA - Toyota Amphitheatre
17 - Concord, CA - Toyota Pavilion at Concord
19 - Los Angeles, CA - Kia Forum
20 - Phoenix, AZ - Talking Stick Resorts Amphitheatre
22 - Dallas, TX - Dos Equis Pavilion
23 - Houston, TX - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
25 - Rogers, AR - Walmart AMP
27 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverbend Music Center
28 - Nashville, TN - Bridgestone Arena
30 - Noblesville, IN - Ruoff Music Center
31 - St. Louis, MO - Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
In the Metal Injection clip below, In Flames / ex-Megadeth guitarist Chris Broderick takes you through all of the riffs that "schooled" him. He plays riffs from the following songs:
Ratt - "Lay It Down"
King Diamond - "Mother's Getting Weaker"
Yngwie Malmsteen - "I Am A Viking", "I'll See The Light"
Racer X - "Scarified"
In Flames are set to infiltrate the US for a spring headlining US tour with special guests Gatecreeper and Creeping Death. The skull crushing lineup will kick off the excursion on May 1 in Portland, ME and will wrap it up on May 26 in Dallas, TX.
Commenting on the tour, vocalist Anders Fridén says: "We are very excited to have these two killer bands, Gatecreeper and Creeping Death, on this run. I foresee a night of huge riffs, blast beats, head banging, mosh pitting, people loosing their minds and more. Come on down, lets have a good time!!!"
Gatecreeper frontman Chase Mason adds: "We are very excited to tour with In Flames. We have been fans for a long time and got the opportunity to meet and play with the band last summer. In Flames has been a huge influence on our newer material and hitting the road with them after working on our record is an ideal scenario for us."
May
1 - Portland, ME - State Theatre
2 - Hampton Beach, NH - Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
3 - Brooklyn, NY - Warsaw
4 - Wilmington, DE - The Queen
5 - Norfolk, VA - The Norva
7 - Charleston, SC - Charleston Music Hall
8 - Greensboro, NC - Piedmont Hall
9 - Atlanta, GA - Buckhead
10 - Daytona, FL - Rockville
12 - Huntsville, AL - Mars Music Hall
14 - Nashville, TN - Marathon Music Works
16 - Pittsburgh, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre
17 - Buffalo, NY - The Town Ballroom
18 - Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple
19 - Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metal Fest
21 - Detroit, MI - St. Andrews
22 - St. Louis, MO - The Hawthorn
23 - Oklahoma City, OK - Diamond Ballroom
24 - Austin, TX - Emo's
25 - Houston, TX - House of Blues
26 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues
In Flames are:
Anders Fridén - Vocals
Björn Gelotte - Guitar / Vocals
Chris Broderick - Guitar
Tanner Wayne - Drums
Liam Wilson - Bass
German metal legends Blind Guardian have shared a recap video of their April 14th show in Kentish Town, London, England. Check it out below along with fan-filmed video from the gig.
Blind Guardian kicked off The God Machine North American 2024 tour on April 18 at The Fillmore in Silver Springs. The tour will make its way to Dallas, Seattle, and Toronto before the final performance at Milwaukee Metal Fest on May 17. Joining the band as support is Night Demon.
Vocalist Hansi Kürsch states: "We heard your calls! We are more than just thrilled to finally announce that highly anticipated North American run of shows. Let me tell you that the band will be on fire and that we are very grateful to have a fantastic opening band such as Night Demon on our side to bring the full Metal blast to your town. I recommend not to miss this chance, we will perform Beyond Imagination. You don’t want to see it, you have to see it! The God Machine is in sole and full magic mode."
Dates:
April
20 - Charlotte, NC - The Underground
21 - Atlanta, GA - The Masquerade
23 - Dallas, TX - The Factory
24 - Austin, TX - Emo’s
26 - Phoenix, AZ - Cresent Ballroom
27 - Los Angeles, CA - The Belasco
28 - San Francisco, CA - The Regency Ballroom
30 - Portland, OR - The Roseland Theater
May
1 - Seattle, WA - The Showbox Market
3 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Complex
4 - Denver, CO - The Summit Music Hall
6 - Minneapolis, MN - The Varsity Theater
7 - Des Moines, IA - Wooly’s
9 - Toronto, ON - Rebel
10 - Montreal, QC - L'Olympia
11 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium
12 - New York, NY - The Palladium
14 - Harrisburg, PA - HMAC
16 - Cleveland, OH - Agora Theater
17 - Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee Metalfest
The cinematic progressive metal band Sunburst has released a music video for "Hollow Lies", the first single from their new album "Manifesto". The single contains the elements that Sunburst are known for, like impressive instrumental parts, intense guitar riffing, dramatic orchestrations, soaring melodic vocals and emotional and memorable melodies. "Hollow Lies" is available on all digital platforms and a music video is available below.
Manifesto will be released on CD, limited vinyl editions and digital via Inner Wound Recordings on June 14.
Sunburst was formed in 2010 and inspired by bands like Dream Theater, Nevermore, Conception and Symphony X they started to write songs and play shows. Their debut album Fragments Of Creation was released in 2016 by Inner Wound Recordings and received fantastic feedback from fans and media around the globe.
After the album came out Sunburst played a number of successful shows in Greece and Europe, and started to work on material for the follow up to "Fragments of Creation". During the following years the members of Sunburst kept busy touring and recording with other bands, but late 2023 they finally completed their sophomore album entitled Manifesto.
When you listen to the new album, it's clear that the band stepped up their game. The material is more progressive, heavy, complex and melodic compared to the debut album. The songs are more dramatic and there are more orchestral arrangements and parts on Manifesto, which gives the album a movie-like, cinematic vibe.
You will also find the elements that Sunburst are known for on the album, like impressive instrumental parts, intense guitar riffing, soaring melodic vocals and emotional and memorable melodies.
The album was produced by Sunburst and Steve Lado, who also mixed and mastered the album. Bob Katsionis performs all keyboards on the album and John K came up with the orchestral arrangements on the songs "The Flood", "Hollow Lies" and "Nocturne". The artwork was created by Sunburst vocalist Vasilis Georgiou (HALO Creative Design Lab).
Tracklisting:
“The Flood”
“Hollow Lies”
“Samaritan”
“Perpetual Descent”
“Inimicus Intus”
“From The Cradle To The Grave”
“Manifesto”
“Nocturne”
Following the successful release of "Never Dawn" (over two million streams),Italian goth metal veterans LACUNA COIL are back with their new single, "In The Mean Time", featuring Ash Costello of NEW YEARS DAY. The song’s title is a reference to the mean times the world is living in, as well as a reference to the state the band itself is in, between cycles.
LACUNA COIL states: "'In The Mean Time' is a reflection on how much our society has generally 'lost the plot'. We are living in really mean times filled with unhappy people: lonely, anxious, depressed, destructive. The pressure that crushes from the outside doesn't allow us to see things with the right clarity.
"This song is like group therapy: not a lamentation, but acceptance that once broken, it's hard to put oneself back together again.
"We need to take our minds off all the inescapable toxicity and find that there's so much more to this life… and know that in the meantime, everything cannot be aligned.
"We invited Ash Costello from NEW YEARS DAY to feature on the track and we're thrilled she came on board adding exactly what we needed for this song with her warm voice and charisma."
Costello said: "I am deeply honored to join LACUNA COIL on tour for the first time, to have the incredible opportunity to lend my guest vocals to a new track and appear in the music video. Working alongside the powerhouse vocalist Cristina has been a privilege, and I may be biased in saying that 'In The Mean Time' has quickly become my favorite by LACUNA COIL. Its message about embracing individuality and not conforming deeply resonates with me."
LACUNA COIL will embark on the "Ignite The Fire" U.S. tour next month with support from NEW YEARS DAY and OCEANS OF SLUMBER.
Last July, LACUNA COIL released the official lyric video for the band's single "Never Dawn". For the track, LACUNA COIL partnered with CMON, the renowned board game publisher behind the popular game "Zombicide".
LACUNA COIL has spent some of the last couple of years promoting "Comalies XX", the "deconstructed" and "transported" version of the band's third album, "Comalies".
"Comalies XX" was made available on October 14, 2022 via Century Media Records.
LACUNA COIL celebrated the 20th anniversary of "Comalies", by performing it in its entirety at a one-night-only concert on October 15, 2022 at Fabrique in Milano.
"Comalies" was originally released on October 29, 2002 through Century Media Records. The LP, which featured the band's breakthrough single "Heaven's A Lie", has reportedly gone on to sell over 300,000 copies in the United States alone.
Epica's live Blu-Ray, Omega Alive, was released in 2021 via Nuclear Blast. The band has shared the full concert via their official YouTube channel, and you can check it out below.
Setlist:
"Alpha - Anteludium"
"Abyss of Time – Countdown to Singularity"
"The Skeleton Key"
"Unchain Utopia"
"The Obsessive Devotion"
"In All Conscience"
"Victims of Contingency"
"Kingdom of Heaven, Pt.1 – A New Age Dawns"
"Kingdom of Heaven, Pt.3 – The Antediluvian Universe"
"Rivers"
"Once Upon a Nightmare"
"Freedom – The Wolves Within"
"Cry for the Moon - The Embrace That Smothers Part IV"
"Beyond the Matrix"
"Omega – Sovereign of the Sun Spheres"
Recorded in early 2023 at the band’s biggest Dutch headline show to date, Live At The AFAS Live captures the electrifying stage energy of Epica with some of their biggest hits.
Recently released on all digital platforms, this will be the final sign of life before the band returns to the studio to write their new album. Stream the full EP on all platforms now, here.
You can watch the live video for "Code Of Life" (Live At The AFAS Live) below.
Guitarist Isaac Delahaye comments: “It’s always a pleasure to play this fan-favorite track, and to take the crowd with us while we build up to the massive groove and have a headbang party together. Enjoy listening & watching 'Code Of Life' as performed earlier this year in Amsterdam!”
Watch "Beyond The Matrix" from the same show, below:
Former Sabaton guitarist / Majestica frontman Tommy Johansson has shared his weekly cover, this time taking on Beyoncé's recent hit, "Texas Hold 'Em". Check out the video below.
Johansson recently announced his departure from Sabaton and issued the following statement:
"My dear friends! After seven glorious years of heavy metal, I have decided to step down as the guitarist of Sabaton. This has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my entire life.
As many of you may know, I do a lot of things outside of Sabaton. I play with another band, perform with various artists, and have a career as a singer that I’ve put aside for years to focus on Sabaton. After doing this for seven years, I feel it’s time to start following my heart. This means I will no longer tour with my brothers in Sabaton and will not meet all you lovely Sabaton supporters on the upcoming tours with the band.
I will never quit playing music. I’ll still be touring with Majestica and other projects, but not on the same level as Sabaton, of course. I am sure I will meet you lovely fans on the road again in the future.
My brothers in Sabaton and the best crew in the world will forever be my second family, and I will miss spending time with all these wonderful people. We had so much fun together every day. I’ve come to learn so much about life, about music and about touring that I wouldn’t have learned anywhere else.
A massive thank you to all you lovely Sabaton fans for accepting me as the new guitarist in 2016. I am certain you will accept the person who takes over after me.
All the best to you all and I’ll see you again soon!"
In 2006, The Rolling Stones made their debut performance in mainland China, bringing one of the most renowned rock and roll live acts to the other side of the world.
Watch the band perform "It's Only Rock 'N' Roll" live at Shanghai Grand Stage:
Featuring interviews with long-time production manager Dale “Opie” Skjerseth and the godfather of Chinese rock, Cui Juan, the From London To Shanghai documentary explores behind the scenes of the historic concert. Watch below:
Last Temptation, the rock sensation known for their electrifying performances and timeless sound, is making a triumphant return with their latest single, "Get On Me". Stream/save the single here, and watch a music video below.
"Get On Me" showcases Last Temptation's commitment to reviving the essence of hard rock by blending the iconic sounds of the 70s and 80s, injecting a breath of fresh air into today's music scene. In an era where authenticity is cherished, it's inspiring to witness bands like Last Temptation strive to reignite the genuine joy of rock 'n' roll.
Led by the energetic vocals of frontman Loup Malevil, "Get On Me" instantly captivates with its rock-solid rhythm and infectious melody. Whether interpreted as a love song, an invitation to live, or a call to dance, each listener will find their own connection to the track's vibrant spirit.
Behind the mixing console stands the legendary Mike Fraser, renowned for his work with icons such as AC/DC and Van Halen. With an unparalleled track record, Fraser brings his expertise to "Get On Me," promising an authentic sonic experience that will satisfy even the most discerning hard rock enthusiasts.
Last Temptation has successfully evolved and explored new musical directions while remaining true to their roots. With "Get On Me," they deliver on their promise with an irresistible new single that is bound to leave a lasting impression on listeners.
"Blacktop Mojo have been kicking ass for over a decade and their music catalog is insane, with a cover of Aerosmith's "Dream On" racking in over 22 million streams on Spotify alone," begins Matt Green from Southbound Sessions.
"They walk a thin genre blending line of hard rock and Texas country, and we're stoked to have featured them on the Southbound Sessions channel this week. 'Like Wild Horses' is a single from their latest album, Pollen. Big thanks to the folks at Victory Guns and Guitars in Lindale, Texas for letting us shoot at their spot."
Blacktop Mojo released their fifth studio album, Pollen, on April 5th.
With inspirations ranging from Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bill Withers and Stone Temple Pilots. to Bob Seger and Etta James, Blacktop Mojo’s music has elements of heavy rock, grunge, soul, blues, and a little splash of southern twang.
Pollen artwork and tracklisting:
"The End Is Gonna Come"
"Weary I Roam"
"I Can't Tell"
"Please Don't Call"
"Red Enough"
"Rise"
"As The Light Fades"
"Something's Changed"
"Shoulda Just Gone To Sleep"
"Born To Lose"
"Like Wild Horses"
In live news, Clutch have announced their upcoming New World Samurai Tour 2024, with support from Blacktop Mojo and The Native Howl. The trek kicks off on April 26th in Richmond, VA, and concludes on May 19th in Columbus, OH.
“When you come see us, you’re seeing rock and roll the way it used to be. A group of people on stage playing their instruments right in front of your face. No laptops, no backing tracks. What you see is what you get,” says Matt James, lead singer of Blacktop Mojo.
Dates and a video trailer can be found below.
April
26 - Richmond, VA - The National
27 - Wilmington, DE - The Queen
29 - Bloomington, IL - The Castle Theatre
May
1 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep
2 - Estes Park, CO - Stanley Hotel
3 - Estes Park, CO - Stanley Hotel
4 - Aspen, CO - Belly Up Aspen
5 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theater
7 - Lubbock, TX - The Garden
9 - Pelham, TN - The Caverns
10 - Columbia, SC - The Senate
11 - Daytona, FL - Welcome To Rockville
12 - Pensacola, FL - Vinyl Music Hall
14 - Columbia, MO - The Blue Note
15 - Fayetteville, AR - JJ's Live
17 - Sioux City, IA - Anthem at Hard Rock
18 - Belvidere - IL - The Apollo Theatre
19 - Columbus, OH - Sonic Temple
For further details, visit Blacktop Mojo on Facebook.
Calva Louise have revealed the extraordinary cinematic sci-fi video for their new song, "Under the Skin", and the news they have also signed to Mascot Records.
Feast your eyes on the video for "Under the Skin" below; stream the song here
Calva Louise are storming into 2024, playing Download Festival, 2000Trees, and Primordial General Mayhem. In May, they'll take on a 10-date co-headline tour of the US with Vukovi and play So What!? Festival, Welcome to Rockville, and Sonic Temple. They'll also perform at Vainstream Rockfest (Germany) and Dynamo MetalFest (Netherlands). Calva Louise are gearing up for an explosive 2024, with even more shows on the horizon.
The British based band is truly international with its members hailing from across the globe and has been ripping through the UK underground for the past few years, driven by the creative vision of the Venezuelan songwriter Jess Allanic (Vocals/Guitar/Keyboard) along with French bassist Alizon Taho (Bass/Backing Vocals) and New Zealander Ben Parker (Drums/Backing Vocals).
"Under the Skin" was co-written by Jess Allanic and Pendulum's Gareth McGrillen and is a mesmerizing blend of raging metal riffs, swirling electronica, and Jess' extraordinary ability to flit between ethereal vocals and demonic howls. It swoons in and out of a stunning narrative, with melodic twists along the way that are punctured by an attack of hypnotic assertiveness.
This first single release is accompanied by Calva Louise's most ambitious music video production, including a sci-fi movie-style short film, telling a story about intertwined dimensions where the characters are looking to perpetuate their consciousness beyond the real world.
The lyrics of "Under the Skin" follow a complex sci-fi narrative and is the introduction of a conceptual storyline consisting of characters called "Travellers" and their counterparts called the "Doubles."
Allanic says, "The lyrics deal with the obstacles that arise in the human duality as one is looking for freedom and the other is looking to perpetuate their consciousness, but the expectations are not the same for both sides."
The music video shows the Travellers and their Doubles transporting energy capsules which they recovered from the Hybrids-Scorpions (the story's villains) to the Main Hologram Generator, the maker of the "Realworld."
The story focuses on one of the Doubles Vic, that betrayed Commander Jonnie, also a Double, and his crew composed of both Travellers and Doubles, after being infected (and therefore under the control) of a Hybrid-scorpion that sneaked into Jonnie's Hedron-Ship. Jonnie's plans had been interrupted due to the anticipated invasion of the Hybrids that kidnapped multiple Hedron-Ships back in the Mother-Hedron-Ship, where their city was built. Meanwhile, the infected Doubles began to abandon their counterpart Travellers and started to usurp their lives in the holographic "Realworld." The Hybrids then got a free pass to continue sucking the energy of the countless Travellers who had been getting trapped in the "Dreamworld."
The video is a feast for the eye and was directed, edited and with VFX by Allanic.
Australian rock powerhouse The Dreadful Tides have unleashed their latest single, "Fire In The Hole," electrifying fans with a sound that harkens back to the golden age of '70s rock, combined with the raw power of today's heavy hitters. Known for their fierce riffs and captivating live performances, the Melbourne-based quartet is firing on all cylinders, promising to make 2024 a landmark year.
Since their debut in 2021, The Dreadful Tides have redefined the rock landscape, blending classic influences from Black Label Society and Black Sabbath with a modern twist that resonates with fans of heavy, compelling music. The band's dedication to the rich, dynamic sounds of the Les Paul and Marshall amp combo, coupled with deep, resonant drums and journey-like bass lines, creates an audio experience that's both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
"Fire In The Hole" showcases Jimmy Black's powerful vocals and the band’s knack for crafting songs that are as anthemic as they are gritty. The single captures the essence of The Dreadful Tides' unique sound, which has already earned them over 100,000 streams and a solid presence on Australian radio.
"The energy we bring to 'Fire In The Hole' is a testament to TDT’s journey so far and a preview of where we're headed," says The Dreadful Tides. "This track is for anyone who loves their rock loud, heavy, and full of soul."
"Fire In The Hole" is currently available on all major streaming platforms. Fans can also look forward to more single releases throughout the year, each promising to deliver the hard-hitting, heart-pounding rock that The Dreadful Tides are known for.
For further details, visit The Dreadful Tides on Facebook.
Future alternative metal greats Defences present their stunning new single "The Curse". The track follows up strong support in the form of millions of streams across their catalog, and the band from Hertfordshire, UK, is excited to be partnered with Long Branch Records. The release of "The Curse" includes a new music video, available below.
"'The Curse' is a song about feeling like the universe is against you, trying to sabotage your every endeavor despite your best efforts to achieve something," comments singer Cherry Duesbury. "The feeling of being just a little too late, or pipped to the post, and having to start over again. To demonstrate this, it references the individual struggles of trying to be creative in an oversaturated industry, focusing on the internal fortitude required to not only persevere but to enjoy creativity for its own sake. By making these fears and inadequacies into a character, we wanted to show how powerful this feeling of being cursed can seem, and the importance of recognizing and accepting it as part of yourself."
Singer Cherry Duesbury comments on the new video: "The video shoot was really fun - it was the first time Shadow Cherry was on set for anything. She's an idea I've had in my head for some time, so it felt quite surreal to have her come to fruition in front of the camera. A really liberating side of me comes out when I'm made up like that, which I think we've started to capture in this video."
"It was an exciting shoot for us; we hadn't shot a music video for a couple of years. It was our first official shoot with Owen on bass and Will on keys, and we were all stoked to finally bring the ideas we'd been working on to life!"
"We used more props and cool visual elements for this video than I think we ever had before. So many candles, which I really enjoyed! I always have candles lit at home. We're really leaning into the witchy aesthetic for this era, which is right up my street. I was sat in a circle of them for one of the shots, it felt like I was having a seance, I loved it!"
Defences has completed numerous UK tours with multiple sell-out headline shows, not to mention numerous festival appearances including Download, Takedown, Turbulence, and Burn It Down. These shows and releases, combined with the online community being cultivated in their #TheHeart fan page, ensure that the band remains connected with their constantly growing fanbase as they move into their upcoming release.
Heavy act Doomcrusher have just released their sophomore single "Reflect", out now worldwide via Arising Empire.
In the crucible of the apocalyptic atmosphere that envelopes our world, Doomcrusher were forged. Born out of the deepest desire to be the harbinger of change, the band emerged with a resolute mission: to defy the impending doom that looms on the horizon.
Founded by Andy Posdziech (Any Given Day), Jean Bormann (Rage), Marv Kinkel, and Rob Lee, Doomcrusher's sound is a powerful fusion of stomping and heavy mid-tempo industrial riffs, seamlessly intertwined with uncompromising gutturals that resolve into unfolding and uplifting hooks.
The band's sound is further enriched by sophisticated electronic elements, adding depth and complexity to their musical tapestry. The ambition is clear — to redefine modern core music while staying true to the roots of the metal genre. Their music is not merely an auditory experience; it's a journey through the realms of sound, a deliberate exploration of the boundaries of heavy music.
Doomcrusher stand as a defiant force against the inevitable, a rebellion that crushes the darkness of doom with an unwavering belief in the transformative power of music.
For further details, visit Doomcrusher on Facebook.
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