Seven Kingdoms talk about dangers on the road

Sometimes it may seem like touring is just fun all the time. In reality it is dangerous for musicians to travel that much. Just think of situations you all have been experiencing in day-to-day transportation.

Seven Kingdoms have recently travelled the road a lot, Photo credit Camden Cruz.

While this year has been a successful one for power metallers Seven Kingdoms with completing a North American tour and the release of a EP on the new label Reigning Phoenix Music they still put the mark on the dangers mentioned above.

The band comments the cover they did of a Mr. Misters song: "Kyrie translates to “Lord have Mercy” which when driving all around the world at all hours of the day and night, amongst responsible and non responsible people, we put our lives on the line every second we are on the road. I often refer to highways as “The river of idiots” which can be anyone at any given moment."

It's a wonderful slower track with high pitched vocals. The balance is set in a proper way and it feels like a piece of music written in thought without finally losing the faith.

Seven Kingdoms are going to hit the road again in February in Europe as support of Unleash The Archers.  

12.02 - Substage - Karlsruhe, DE
13.02 - Colos-Saal - Aschaffenburg, DE
14.02 - Live Music Hall - Cologne, DE
15.02 - De Kreun - Kortrijk, BE
16.02 - The Underworld - London, GB
17.02 - La Machine - Paris, FR
19.02 - Dynamo - Zurich, CH
20.02 - Legend Club - Milan, IT
21.02 - Backstage - Munich, DE
22.02 - Masters Of Rock Cafe - Zlin, CZ
23.02 - Barba Negra - Budapest, HU
25.02 - Szene - Vienna, AT
26.02 - Kwadrat - Cracow, PL
27.02 - Hellraiser - Leipzig, DE
28.02 - Rockhal - Esch-Sur-Alzette, LU
01.03 - Kronensaal - Hamburg, DE
02.03 - Patronaat - Haarlem, NL

Losing Gravity put "All in" this time

Bands are pushing hard in order to reach the goal they set themselves. The southern rock formation Losing Gravity is comprised of German and American musicians. Together they build songs that incorporate straight forward songwriting without sounding dull or commercialised. 

The single for "Another Day" is a fine example for that. Building on the solid basis that the drums and bass guitar provide it's the finetuning with keyboard notes and guitar melodies that gives the track a special taste.

The colorization of the video is held in blue tones giving it a cold touch that surely relates to the topic of the lyrics. Happily there's always still some light shining every here and there.

"Another Day" comes as a teaser to the full album called "All in" that is going to be released on September 6th 2024. Losing Gravity is going to tour with the new songs through Germany. Here are the dates:

01.09.24 - BAD ORB / DEHAAM MARKT  

07.09.24 - HABBELS / SCHMALLENBERG  

13.09.24 - MARIAS BALLROOM / HAMBURG  

14.09.24 - LUX / HANNOVER  

19.09.24 - PONYHOF / FRANKFURT  

20.09.24 - SOUNDCHECK ONE / WALDBRONN  

21.09.24 - B.I.S. / MÖNCHENGLADBACH  

04.10.24 - BACKSTAGE / MÜNCHEN -  

08.11.24 - DIE KLINKE / BERLIN

Tickets are available through the links that the homepage of the band provides. 

Engineered Society Project comes to Europe soon (Autumn 2023)

In all of today's troubles it's always a wonder when a band hit's the road to bring some positive feelings to the people. I think there's more than ever a need to stay with positive thoughts and vibes these days. How else should me make it through?

So it's more than fine to see that Engineered Society Project with Kris Keyes at the vocal helm was able to secure a European tour. It will start at the end of this month along with Lord Bishop, something that makes this package even more attractive. Check the poster if they will do a stop near you.

More dates may be added. Check out Facebook for up to date information.

It addition Engineered Society Project have put out a proper hymn for this string of shows. It's a fine track showing the ability of the band to combined the traditional with few newer elements packed in a song that's good to follow, building slowly step by step and putting out a fine message: Peace is something this earth needs.

Supernaut hit the road tomorrow with fun riffhacker single

This is the sort of music that keeps me on the stereo. The stoner metal formation from the United States created a heavy riff that rocks straight through my ears. It's going agressively in but never misses to form something that remains listenable.

The cover reminds me a bit of computer game shells.

The drums accompany to the guitars and keep the groove tight and round. But what I liked most are the vocals on "Resist the urge". They have this legendary spirit in it. These direct vocals only pure underground bands have in them. They hit you direct in the face and keep it short and straight forward. No holding back, no overload just straight in to the noise. The lyrics accompany to this.

The overall sound is also like these thrash bands used to have them when they started out. 

Make sure to listen to the full song 'till the end. The last third holds some nice play-around with more rough riffing that spread a lot of fun. 

The brand new single comes packed in a nice sleeve that hopefully will see a T-Shirt release sometime.

Make sure to support this combo on the coming tour in the United States that already starts tomorrow! Here are the exact dates.

August 2022

Friday 19th The Blue Lagoon - Santa Cruz, CA
Saturday 20th The Partisan - Merced, CA
Sunday 21st Jerry's Pizza and Pub - Bakersfield, CA
Tuesday 23rd Transplants Brewing - Palmdale, CA
Wednesday 24th Supply and Demand - Long Beach, CA
Thursday 25th The Continental - Fullerton, CA
Friday 26th The Pourhouse - Oceanside, CA
Saturday 27th Bancroft Bar - Spring Valley, CA
Tuesday 30th Yucca Taproom - Tempe, AZ
Wednesday 31st The Rockin' Bar - El Paso, TX

September 2022

Thursday 1st The Deadhorse - San Angelo, TX
Friday 2nd Wake The Dead Coffeehouse- San Marcos, TX
Saturday 3rd Green Jay - Austin, TX
Sunday 4th Acadia Bar - Houston, TX
Thursday 8th Freetown Boom Boom Room - Lafayette, LA
Friday 9th Gasa Gasa - New Orleans, LA
Saturday 10th The Tavern - Hattiesburg, MS
Sunday 11th TBD - Memphis, TN
Tuesday 13th TBD - Fayatteville, AR
Wednesday 14th TBD - Norman, OK
Thursday 15th Leftwoods - Amarillo, TX
Friday 16th Longhair Records - Albuquerque, NM
Saturday 17th The Attic - Prescott, AZ
Sunday 18th The Sand Dollar Lounge - Las Vegas, NV

A full album release is also slated for the 19th of August 2022. Keep a eye on Bandcamp for the moment it hits the shelves.

Keep in touch with the guys directly through Facebook or Instagram.

Female hijab-wearing metal band to tour Europe November 2021

Some time ago we had a talk here if wearing hijab and playing metal is a fitting combination. A trio of women from Indonesia is brave enough to share the love for heavy music and staying true to their beliefs at the same time. They formed Voice of Baceprot and gained attention with playing covers of well known songs of acts like Rage against the machine.

Soon the band will head over to Europe to perform a limited number of shows at the Netherlands, France, Belgium and Switzerland beginning November 28th and going through December 10th. 

Make sure to see them - I think this is a rare opportunity to see them live.

The dates of the 2021 European tour of Voice Of Baceprot.

If you've not heard them yet here is a teaser to their sound.

Tourdates Overlook 11/2019-Start 2020

Nothing is compareable to the intensity of a live show. Please support your local venues and go there to see great bands giving you unpayable memories. Here's a uplisting of shows in the next days and months along with a short band description at the beginning to give a idea of the band's sound and genre.

Some of the tourposters that belong to the dates listed below.

Make sure to listen to some Jinjer in the background while going through the list. It's the perfect soundtrack - raw energy mixed with intensive sensitive moments. Just imagine that live.


JINJER just released their newest modern metal milestone, Macro and there’s no stopping them now. They will present songs cut from their new album, as well as fan favorites – proving once more that they are one of the best live bands around.
JINJER LIVE
special guest: THE AGONIST
supports: KHROMA, SPACE OF VARIATIONS
13.11.19 CZ - Prague / MeetFactory
14.11.19 DE - Berlin / Lido *SOLD OUT*
15.11.19 DK - Copenhagen / Pumpehuset
16.11.19 DE - Hanover / Musikzentrum
17.11.19 DE - Hamburg / Knust
19.11.19 LU - Esch-Alzette/ Kulturfabrik
20.11.19 DE - Frankfurt / Das Bett
21.11.19 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
22.11.19 DE - Annaberg-Buchholz / Alte Brauerei
23.11.19 DE - Cologne / Gebäude 9
24.11.19 DE - Bochum / Zeche
26.11.19 NL - Amsterdam / Q-Factory
27.11.19 NL - Eindhoven / Dynamo
28.11.19 NL - Antwerp / Zappa
29.11.19 UK - London / Heaven
30.11.19 UK - Birmingham / Asylum
01.12.19 UK - Newcastle / University
03.12.19 UK - Manchester / Academy 2
04.12.19 UK - Bristol / Thekla
06.12.19 FR - Paris / La Machine
07.12.19 FR - Annemasse / Chateau Rouge
08.12.19 FR - Toulouse / Le Rex
10.12.19 ES - Murcia / Garaje
11.12.19 ES - Madrid / Mon
12.12.19 ES - Barcelona / Salamandra
13.12.19 FR - Toulon / Omega Live
14.12.19 IT - Milan / Magazzini Generali
15.12.19 CH - Zürich / Dynamo
16.12.19 DE - Munich / Backstage Werk
16.12.19 AT - Graz / Dom Im Berg
18.12.19 AT - Vienna / Simm City
19.12.19 HR - Zagreb / Tvornica Kulture
21.12.19 SK - Bratislava / Majestic
22.12.19 HU - Budapest / Barba Negra
# w/ The Agonist only

The pioneering German Gothic Metal band CREMATORY will release a new album, which they will accompany with the upcoming tour. In their 28 year long career the band released 14 studio and three live albums, played hundreds of shows around the globe and they are still hungry for more.
CREMATORY LIVE
09.04.20 DE - Hamburg / Logo
10.04.20 DE - Berlin / Nuke Club
11.04.20 DE - Hagen aTW / Stocks
12.04.20 DE - Cologne / Helios37
01.05.20 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
02.05.20 DE - Munich/ Backstage Club
08.05.20 DE - Trier / Mergener Hof
09.05.20 DE - Kaiserslautern / Kammgarn
21.05.20 DE - Frankfurt a.M. / Nachtleben
22.05.20 DE - Erfurt / From Hell
23.05.20 DE - Zwickau / Club Seilerstrasse
30.05.20 DE - Lindau / Club Vaudeville
31.05.20 CH - Bern / Gaskessel

When good friends invite you to a birthday party, you don't think long: As co-founders of the “Neue Deutsche Härte”, MEGAHERZ  went straight up and rocks the boat with a new chapter of their very special live shows! And also present: the well-known german punk rocker SERUM114 - if you want to experience their explosive energy, you have to see them live!
MEGAHERZ & SERUM 114 LIVE
w/ Hämatom
29.02.20 DE - Geiselwind / Event Zentrum
06.03.20 DE - Osnabrück / Hyde Park
07.03.20 DE - Hamburg / Grosse Freiheit 36
13.03.20 DE - Leipzig / Haus Auensee
14.03.20 DE - Berlin / Huxleys
19.03.20 DE - Frankfurt / Batschkapp
20.03.20 DE - Cologne / Carlswerk V.
21.03.20 DE - Munich / Tonhalle
27.03.20 CH - Pratteln / Z7
28.03.20 DE - Stuttgart / LKA Longhorn
02.04.20 DE - Memmingen / Kaminwerk
03.04.20 DE - Memmingen / Kaminwerk

The German Melodic Black Metallers THULCANDRA will support Obscura on their Diluvium Tour throughout Europe. The band marches through different sound-landscapes, garnished with mystical moments of tranquillity. THULCANDRA is more than ready to prove this live on stage again!
THULCANDRA LIVE
w/ Obscura, God Dethroned, Fractal Universe
15.02.20 CH - Zug / Galvanik
16.02.20 IT - Bologna / Locomotiv
17.02.20 SL - Ljubliana / Orto Bar
18.02.20 AT - Graz / Explosiv
19.02.20 BH - Tuzla / Palma
20.02.20 BG - Sofia / Mixtapes
21.02.20 RO - Bucharest / Quantic Club
22.02.20 SR - Belgrade / Bozidarac
23.02.20 HU - Budapest / Dürer-Kert
24.02.20 SK - Bratislava / Randall
25.02.20 CZ - Prague / Futurum
26.02.20 PL - Krakow / Kwadrat
27.02.20 PL - Warsaw / Proxima
28.02.20 LV - Riga / Melna Piektdiena
29.02.20 EST - Tallin / Tapper Club
01.03.20 FI - Helsinki / Tavastia
03.03.20 SWE - Stockholm / Klubben
04.03.20 NO - Oslo / John Dee
05.03.20 DK - Aarshus / Voxhall
06.03.20 DE - Essen / Turock
07.03.20 DE - Landshut / Rocket Club

THE NEW ROSES are back on tour presenting their latest release Nothing But Wild with strong and energetic Rock’n’Roll live on stage. After successful live appearances all over the world, lately playing with the legendary Scorpions, THE NEW ROSES is ready to hit the stage.
THE NEW ROSES LIVE
w/ Fighter V, Stray Train
13.11.19 AT - Vienna / Szene
14.11.19 HU - Budapest / Dürer Kert
15.11.19 AT - Wörgl / KOMMA Veranstaltungszentrum
16.11.19 DE - Wiesbaden / Kulturzentrum Schlachthof
21.11.19 DE - Munich / Backstage München
22.11.19 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
23.11.19 CZ - Zlin / Winter Masters of Rock
30.11.19 UK - London / Borderline
05.12.19 DE - Aschaffenburg / Colos-Saal
06.12.19 DE - Osnabrück / Rosenhof
12.12.19 NL - Weert / De Bosuil
13.12.19 NL - Hoogeveen / Het Podium
14.12.19 NL - Amsterdam / Melkweg
15.12.19 BE - Ittre / Zik-zak
07.02.20 ES - Barcelona / Sala Bóveda
08.02.20 ES - Madrid / Nazca Club
15.08.20 DE - Balve / German Kultrock Festival

POWERWOLF's history of success is a true metal fairytale! With their last three records all hitting the TOP 3 of the German album charts, two of them at #1 POWERWOLF prove: Metal is religion! They are on tour with their Power Metal label colleagues GLORYHAMMER.
POWERWOLF LIVE
w/ Gloryhammer
13.11.19 DK - Copenhagen / Amager Bio
15.11.19 NO - Oslo / Rockefeller
16.11.19 SE - Stockholm / Fryshuset
17.11.19 SE - Gothenburg / Traedgarn
19.11.19  FI - Helsinki / The Circus
20.11.19 EE - Tallinn / Rock Cafe
22.11.19 PL - Gdansk / B90
23.11.19 CZ - Zlin / Winter Masters of Rock
24.11.19 PL - Wroclaw / A2
25.11.19 PL - Krakow / Studio
27.11.19 RO - Bucharest / Arenele Romane
28.11.19 BG - Sofia / Music Jam
29.11.19 GR - Athens / Piraeus 117 Academy
30.11.19 GR - Thessaloniki / Principal Club Theater
02.12.19 SK - Bratislava / Refinery Gallery
03.12.19 AT - Graz / Orpheum
05.12.19 AT - Linz / Posthof
06.12.19 AT - Innsbruck / Music Hall
07.12.19 CH - Bern / Bernexpo

Portuguese dark metal pioneers, MOONSPELL, will embark on an extensive European Tour with ROTTING CHRIST. The finest metal package will travel two months literally all over Europe, including dates in the UK, Spain, Turkey, Scandinavia and many more!
MOONSPELL LIVE
w/ Rotting Christ, Silver Dust
15.11.2019 TR - Istanbul / If Performance Hall
16.11.2019 RO - Bukarest / Quantic Club
17.11.2019 BG - Sofia / Mixtape 5
18.11.2019 HR - Zagreb / Mochvara
19.11.2019 AT - Graz / Dom im Berg
20.11.2019 SK - Bratislava / Majestic Club
21.11.2019 AT - Vienna / Simm City
22.11.2019 HU - Budapest / A 38
23.11.2019 CZ - Zlin / Winter MOR - Euronics Sports Hall
24.11.2019 PL - Krakow / Kwadrat
25.11.2019 PL - Warszaw / Progresja
26.11.2019 PL - Gdansk / B90
27.11.2019 LV - Riga / Melna Piektdiena
28.11.2019 EE - Tallinn / Tapper
29.11.2019 FI - Helsinki / Tavastia *SOLD OUT
30.11.2019 FI - Tampere / Klubi *SOLD OUT
01.12.2019 FI - Turku / Apollo
03.12.2019 SE - Stockholm / Slaktkyrkan
04.12.2019 NO - Oslo / Parkteatret
05.12.2019 DK - Kolding / Godset
06.12.2019 DK - Roskilde / Gimle
07.12.2019 DE - Berlin / Columbia Theater
08.12.2019 DE - Hanover / Musikzentrum
09.12.2019 DE - Mannheim / MS Connexion Complex
10.12.2019 LU - Esch Alzette / Kluturfabrik
11.12.2019 CH - Geneve / PTR
12.12.2019 CH - Pratteln / Z7
13.12.2019 DE - Leipzig / Hellraiser
14.12.2019 DE - Würzburg / Posthalle
15.12.2019 DE - Munich / Backstage

NANOWAR OF STEEL, masters of paradoy metal, hit the stage on their European Reggaton Tour. Known for their extraordinary live performances, while mixing contrasting musical styles like ska and true metal into a genre fluid fun formation, NANOWAR OF STEEL is back on stage.
NANOWAR OF STEEL
NANOWAR OF STEEL LIVE
28.11.19 GR - Athens / Gagarin 205
29.11.19 GR - Thessaloníki / Eightball Club
30.11.19 BG - Sofia / Mixtape 5
01.12.19 RS - Belgrade / Klub Fest Zemun
02.12.19 HR - Zagreb / Boogaloo
+ more to be announced

Known for their intense high-energy and beer-soaked Rock`n`Roll live shows, MAMMOTH MAMMOTH will be hitting the road again. With a heavy touring schedule to follow:
MAMMOTH MAMMOTH LIVE
w/ Dead City Ruins
14.11.2019 DE - Cologne / MTC
15.11.2019 DE - Frankfurt / Das Bett
17.11.2019 DE - Weinheim / Café Central
18.11.2019 DE - Nürnberg / Hirsch
19.11.2019 DE - Bochum / Rockpalast
20.11.2019 DE - Hamburg / HeadCrash
21.11.2019 DE - Berlin / Musik & Frieden
22.11.2019 DE - Erfurt / Museumskeller
23.11.2019 DE - Leipzig / Bandhaus
26.11.2019 DE - Munich / Backstage Club
27.11.2019 DE - Stuttgart / Goldmarks

New David Ellefson track feat. legendary hip-hop MC Darryl “DMC” McDaniels

News coming in from the David Ellefson camp. The title track of the new album has been uploaded to YouTube. It's a great pushing track that helped me to move on with my life on a day when things seemed to be down all the way. You know these situations when things don't turn out the way you want them to and you just sit there thinking of how to change for the better.

David Ellefson at the set of the "Sleeping Giants" video

At this moment the song came in. Music is like fuel for me. Nothings goes without. It centers me when I don't know where to go. Make sure to stay on the screen once the song finishes. It's well worth and a fine smiler.



Besides all of these good news even more showed up. They say that the album will also come out in Europe in November 2019 and shows over here in Europe are in a planning stage for that time frame!

Next week will see the Ellefson troop moving around in America showcasing more live music and looks behind the scenes of David Ellefson's career with Megadeth and his other projects.

BASSTORY MORE LIFE WITH DETH 2019 DATES

Thursday 9/5 – Fullerton, CA – The Slidebar (w/ SYMBOLIC)
Friday 9/6 – Ramona, CA – Ramona Mainstage (w/ SYMBOLIC)
Saturday 9/7 - Phoenix, AZ - Joe's Grotto (w/Fatal Malady)
Tuesday 9/10 – Phoenix, AZ – Changing Hands (Book signing/Q&A)

Attention! Chris Poland will perform live with David Ellefson Thursday, September 5th in Fullerton, CA at The Slidebar, as part of David Ellefson’s BASSTORY tour.

See David Ellefson's Basstory Facebook page for further info and updates.

100 remastered vinyl copies of Corners Of Sanctuary's Galloping Hordes available

Some opportunity's only come once your way in life... This experience from real life may also count for the vinyl album offer of Old School metal revivalists Corners Of Sanctuary.

This is how the originally intended cover artwork looks like

Currently 100 copies are up for pre-order as a crowdfunding campaign the band set up on Qrates.com. If you decide to pick up a copy for 17.98 Dollar plus shipping and handling you'll be rewarded with remastered sound, optimised for vinyl by Bill Metoyer. A bonus track plus a alternative cover round out the package.

It is available until 30th June 2019. You can stream the whole record on the Qrates page if you're not sure about the album yet. Or stream the title track right here.

In other news the band is working on a new album plus further singles and will continue to play shows in the upcoming months. This band is for sure all about taking chances.

April 26 - Threatpoint Benefit - Wilkes-Barres, PA
April 29 - McStew’s - Levittown, PA
(supporting Blaze Bayley formerly of Iron Maiden)
May 4 - TBA
May 17-18 - Finger Lakes Metal Fest 2019 - Clyde, NY
June 6 – Cherry Street Station - Wallingford, CT
June 7 – Trish Stock – Oswego, NY
June 8 – 33 Golden Street – New London, CT
June 28 - TBA
June 29 - Basement Transmissions - Erie, PA
July 27 - Vinyl Closet Records Metal Fest - Norristown, PA
August 30 - Border Bar - Wilkes-barres, PA
September 11 - Skinny’s – North Hollywood, CA
September 12 - TBA
September 13 - Whiskey – West Hollywood, CA (supporting The Iron Maidens)
September 14 - Malone’s House of Metal – Santa Ana, CA

Voyager set a Brightstar at Australia

Some bands are giving me exactly what I need. Voyager, a progressive band mixing up metal with pop-like elements has brought a brand new (video) single to life.

The cover already gives a idea that something special is about to come your way...

It demonstrates once more the band's ability to express softer, melodic elements that touch the soul and give room for dreams and atmosphere. On the contrary there are always rougher corners showing up making clear how much of the agression, raw power and heavyness also lives in the soul of the band. Along with bright pictures of nature and technique it's a overwhelming feeling that floats through me listening to "Brightstar".

If you're living in Australia don't miss out the chance to see Voyager live these days. They hit the road with the excellent Twelve Foot Ninja, a crossover act that also didn't leave my mind once I heard them.

Here are the dates:

Friday 8th March - ANU, Canberra

Saturday 9th March - Download Festival Sydney

Monday 11th March - Download Festival Melbourne

Friday 15th March - Miami Tavern, Gold Coast

Saturday 16th March - The Valley Drive in, Brisbane

Saturday 23rd March - The Gov, Adelaide

TICKETS - http://twelvefootninja.com/shows

The single is up for purchase from Bandcamp, iTunes, Amazon Music and more.

Check the band's Facebook for updates and more info.

Mega Colossus European Tour starts tomorrow

Some news come in late. This one reached me saying that traditional heavy metal masters MEGA COLOSSUS will embark on a European tour starting already tomorrow. The tour will see the band playing shows in Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Greece.

A look up the Mega Colossus "V" EP cover, (c) by Mega Colossus

The band will release their latest EP "V" independently in North America on March 2. So you'll surely be able to pick up a copy of this one at their shows. One more reason to go.

Mega Colossus 2019 European tour dates:

March 2 - Hell Over Hammaburg festival, Hamburg, Germany
March 3 - MTS Records, Oldenburg, Germany
March 6 - Arena Beisl, Vienna, Austria
March 7 - MC Pakerna, Maribor, Slovenia
March 8 - Legends Lounge, Olching, Bayern, Germany
March 10 - P8, Karlsruhe, Germany
March 12 - Szenario, Marburg, Germany
March 14 - Up the Hammers pre-show, Athens, Greece

For updates on these dates and closer info check out the band's Facebook page.

Here's a little snippet so you can quickly check out their music. The band can be described as a mixture of Iron Maiden with Thin Lizzy.

Shim speaks about negativity in time of renewal

The start of the upcoming month march will see two artists touring the United States that both have much life exerience. They've faced the darker side of life and share what they've come along with the listener. In some or another way they also hand a advice on how to react in such situations.

Shim is going to hit the road in March 2019 along with Madame Mayhem as opening act.

Shim had to rework and reintervent his life after his split with the band Sick Puppies to be able to move on. He recalls many people standing in his way during this period. But he used the input to make something of it - as inspiration to create lyrics to his music.

"The video portrays the dilemma that when faced with a life changing decision it won’t just change your life, it will change the person you become within it. Over the course of the last couple of years of rebuilding and reinventing myself, I had a lot of people try and dissuade me, or attempt to stop me, or attempt to Crucify me. How you handle yourself under those circumstances dictates the person you will become.

This is who I am.

I am SHIM"



Madame Mayhem talks about the unpleasant surprises we all have to deal with in life. Is there any way out of this?  The artist shares her view on this "(...) There’s no escaping the darkness. Life is full of unpleasant surprises. Real and  imagined disasters, from outside forces and from within, threaten at every turn. But those who learn to control and command the chaos will triumph.(...)".



Since music talks much stronger than words ever  make sure to show up to the shows. Nothing's ever as intense and makes you learn quickly than being at the venue for yourselves. And it gives fresh power to move on with your own life.

SHIM Tour Dates with Madame Mayhem:

Sat-Mar-02 Colorado Springs, CO - The Black Sheep

Sun-Mar-03 Denver, CO - Lost Lake

Tue-Mar-05 Omaha, NE - Lookout Lounge

Fri-Mar-08 Des Moines, IA - Lefty's Live Music

Sun-Mar-10 Racine, WI (Milwaukee) - Route 20

Mon-Mar-11 West Dundee, IL - RocHaus

Tue-Mar-12 Joliet, IL - The Forge

Wed-Mar-13 Madison, WI - The Annex

Thu-Mar-14 Chesterfield, MI - Diesel Theater

Fri-Mar-15 Heath, OH - Muddy Creek Saloon

Sat-Mar-16 Akron, OH - The Empire Concert Club

Sun-Mar-17 Pittsburgh, PA - Hard Rock Café

Tue-Mar-19 Lancaster, PA - The Lizard Lounge

Wed-Mar-20 Washington DC - DC9

Sat-Mar-23 Richmond, VA - Canal Club

Sun-Mar-24 Greensboro, NC - The Blind Tiger

Tue-Mar-26 Charlotte, NC - Amos Sutherland

Wed-Mar-27 Nashville, TN - The End

For the latest updates on these shows check the Facebook page of Shim or the Facebook account of Madame Mayhem. 

September Mourning talk about the fragmented soul

A band that appears in the real world as well as in comic books - a great idea in my ideas. The comic characters are kept in a darker style aiming at adult readers. The music fits to the stories told.

A short look inside the video of "Glass Animals" by September Mourning, (c) by September Mourning, used with kind permission

These days a new issue of the comic stories called "The complete collection" is about to see the light of day. You can spot some parts of the story in the fresh video September Mourning uploaded to YouTube. Musically the band continues with more dark toned notes while the vocals reach higher regions this time. There's also a deeper meaning hidden both in the book and in the lyrics of the song:

”'Glass Animals' is about the fragmented soul. It's about the realization that we are all broken. Something or someone has broken us and within that broken state we ultimately find the strength to survive. Musically, it's a little bit of a tribute to one of our favorite bands: The Deftones. The song ties into the comic book as well…. Hannah is a broken soul who, through the help of September and Claire, finds the strength to face her personal demons and live again." - Emily Lazar (Founder)


The full package is rounded out with a tour in the US to promote the music and the comic book release. The graphic novel will be sold in comic stores, books stores (Barnes & Noble) nationwide and on Amazon.

Smile Empty Soul will also perform at these shows. I had the pleasure to hear a B-Side compilation some time ago and can confirm that they are well worth the entry price. It's heavy grunge with much groove and hooklines to remember. Be sure to show up early so you'll not miss one of the bands out.

Tour Dates:
03/01 @ Dirty Days Car Show - Atkins, AR
03/02 @ Rockhouse Live - Memphis, TN
03/05 @ Voltage Lounge - Philadelphia, PA
03/06 @ Stage West - Scranton, PA
03/07 @ Dingbatz - Clifton, NJ
03/08 @ Webster Underground - Hartford, CT
03/09 @ Wally’s - Hampton Beach, NH
03/10 @ Providence Tattoo and Music Festival - Providence, RI
03/12 @ House of Music - Portland, ME
03/13 @ The Chance - Poughkeepsie, NY
03/14 @ Revolution - Amityville, NY
03/15 @ Fish Head Cantina - Baltimore, MD
03/16 @ HMAC - Harrisburg, PA
03/19 @ Frankie’s - Toledo, OH
03/20 @ Cheers - South Bend, IN
03/20 @ South Bend, IN - Cheers
03/21 @ Token Lounge - Westland, MI
03/22 @ Muddy Creek Saloon - Heath, OH
03/23 @ Music Factory - Battle Creek, MI
03/24 @ Route 20 - Racine, WI
03/27 @ Gabe’s - Iowa City, IA
03/28 @ Rose Music Hall - Columbia, MO
03/29 @ Riot Room - Kansas City, MO
03/30 @ OKC Limits - Oklahoma City, OK

For updates and latest information on these gigs see September Mournings Facebook page.

Rough Silk back with new video and tourdates

Rough Silk ran across my way many times. First of all way back in 1994 when the band opened up for Helloween. I didn't knew the band before at all but was positively surprised of their sound. Most of all the song "Walls Of Never" left behind something in me.

I kept a eye on them the following years, bought the double best of CD "Wheels Of Time". The german progressive rockers kept changing line up and also the sound changed from lenghty and epic tunes to compact riff rockers.

These days the band sounds more tight and straight fowards than ever before. In addition to putting out a new album "Progressive Oi! Pop" they've put out a decent video showing the new formed band in action in the studio. Besides the work it also captures a lot of the fun moments of those days.

Rough Silk will hit the road on a good many of shows throughout 2019, most of them are located in Germany. Here's the exact list of dates starting already the coming weekend:

19.01.2019 Schänke / Haltern am See
01.02.2019 Café Prinzregent / Ansbach
02.02.2019 Raldy´s Wirtshaus / Pülfringen
09.02.2019 Dublin Road / Rheda Wiedenbrück
16.02.2019 BarRock / Hamburg
08.03.2019 Altberliner Destille / Kassel
09.03.2019 Subkultur / Hannover
15.03.2019 Klimperkasten / Stelle
29.03.2019 Matze's Rock Bar / Bad Wildungen
30.03.2019 Weißes Ross / Immelsdorf
26.04.2019 Teufels / Bargteheide
27.04.2019 B6 / Goslar
18.05.2019 Kapovaz / Bremerhaven
30.05.-01.06.2019 Metal Meeting Festival / Werder
01.06.2019 Kaiserkeller / Hamburg "Punk op de Deel-Festival"
22.06.2019 BarRock / Langenholzhausen / Open Air
07.09.2019 Janja's / Cuxhaven
14.09.2019 Crazy / Hameln
21.09.2019 Mikrofon / Obernkirchen
26.10.2019 ASB Bahnhof / Barsinghausen
01.11.2019 Tonelli´s / Leipzig
02.11.2019 Ranch / Plauen
09.11.2019 Schabreu / Braunschweig
16.11.2019 Gnasteiners / Lauenburg
23.11.2019 Fabrik / Braunsbedra
30.11.2019 Frosch / Limmer
07.12.2019 Muziekcafe / Helmond (NL)

Make sure to check the homepage for further updates.

Brutai will turn your world upside down

Bands go through evolutional steps. It's like we all are going through changes, changes and even more changes. The progressive rockers Brutai recently went through one of these steps and are back with a brand new track.

Stranger Things inspired Artwork by Mark Leary @ Asylum Seventy7

That's what came to my mind when I listened to the brand new Brutai single. It came as a surprise to me. "Upside down" has a different soundstyle. It's less rough and the ongoing rhythm is set a bit slower yet it constantly moves along with the melodies and the many layers inside of the track. The mix of the new single is more detailed than ever. The progressive rockers seem to have given more room for a expanded sound experience with deeper emotions and breathing atmosphere.

Lyrically this one also comes with a special message. Felix Lawrie, vocals and guitars, says this about 'Upside Down'

“Upside Down is semi-inspired by the series Stranger Things. It relates to people being in situations that they can’t see a way out of, and it’s about asking people for help. It’s about being in an ‘upside down’ universe and seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. Empathy is the core emotion we hope people take away from this. The soundscapes are somewhat eerie and we felt Halloween was the perfect time to launch this track as an interlude to our new material from album 2."

You can download the track in any format from http://www.brutai.bandcamp.com alongside merch bundles and the final physical copies of the band's debut album 'Born'.

'Upside Down' is also available on iTunes and Spotify.

Brutai will return to the stage in December for the Incendia Music Christmas Party as the headline act. The band will also perform at HRH Metal in February.

Tickets for Brutai's headline show in December can be bought here.

Now having reverted to unsigned status again, the band recommencew their journey. Make sure to follow Brutai on this way.

www.facebook.com/brutai
@Brutaiband
Brutai.bandcamp.com

Tour of The Month: The Three Tremors featuring Benedictum

Some tours completly surprise me. This particular one already starts this very wednesday and I've not been aware of before today.

Not only will it feature The Three Tremors, a band that is comprised of Ripper Owens, Harry Conklin and Sean Peck Hammer but also have various top notch opening acts.

The tourposter for the Three Tremors shows partly feat. Bendedictum

One of them are called Benedictum, a american heavy metal band featuring vocalist Veronica Freeman "The V". Looking up their music revealed to me that they are a killer band that won my heart in a rush. But there are more good news coming directly from the band. Just read on:

(Vocalist Veronica Freeman "The V") - Benedictum are getting ready to embark on a European tour. This time out new members Ed Mischke (guitar), Eddie Jucius (bass) and Mark Zapata (drums) will be joining me as we support The Three Tremors during a leg of their tour. The future will hold some new music from Benedictum as guitar player and co-founder Pete Wells will be joined by Ed Mischke for a twin guitar attack. Something The V has said she has wanted for Benedictum for a while.

(Guitarist Ed Mischke) - Eddie Jucius, Mark Zapata and myself (core members of New York power metal band SPIRITUAL SICKNESS) are super psyched to be a part of the new Benedictum and to bring this lineup to Europe with our good friends The Three Tremors. I’m personally looking forward to writing new music with founding guitarist Pete Wells and the boys and playing in front of as many people as we can. I think die hard Benedictum fans and new fans alike will be pleased by what’s heading their way

The Three Tremors European tour dates featuring Benedictum

Oct. 5 - Musigburg - Aarburg, Switzerland
Oct. 6 - The Rockpalast - Bochum, Germany
Oct. 7 - The Colosseum - Genk, Belgium
Oct. 8 - Titans Club - Lens, Belgium
Oct. 9 - Bambi Galore - Hamburg, Germany
Oct.10 - Anchor Club - Stockholm, Sweden
Oct. 11 - Bomber Bar - Motala, Sweden
Oct. 12 - Palatset - Linkoping, Sweden
Oct. 13 - Backstage Rockbar - Trollhattan, Sweden
Oct. 14 - High Voltage - Copenhagen, Denmark

Benedictum line-up 2018

Vocals - Veronica Freeman "The V"
Guitars - Pete Wells
Guitars - Ed Mischke (Spiritual Sickness)
Bass - Eddie Jucius (Spiritual Sickness)
Drums - Mark Zapata (Spiritual Sickness)

Here's a older tune for all of you to quickly get a idea of the band's sound.

Jeffrey Nothing releases breathing, deeply touching new music

Some songs breathe a own atmosphere and vibe. This particular one feels unique to me. It's the coming together of the varity of vocal parts as well as the mixed level of heavyness. On top of this the feelings that spread through me while listening & watching are outstanding. It's something of it's own, something not to be found elsewhere. Also make sure to check the words from Jeffrey Nothing underneath the video. I think a lot of you can relate to what they express.

Jeffrey Nothing (also known as Jeff Hatrix), co-founding member of Mushroomhead, has resurfaced with his solo project Jeffrey Nothing (also known as NOTHING), along with fellow former Mushroomhead guitarist Thomas Church, following their departure from the band in March of 2018. Also appearing is former Motograter and The Browning drummer Noah “Shark” Robertson, vocalist Ian Sniesak, bassist Kahler Hatrix, among other members yet to be announced.

Make sure to see them live:

October 6 – RocktoberFest 2018 Day 1 (Iola, Kansas)
October 13 - RocktoberFest 2018 Day 2 (Chanute, Kansas)

The artwork for the single "Fragile Mind" was created by tattoo artist Tony Kelly

Nothing has released the following statement:

“This song wrote itself. Life takes odd twists and turns and sometimes finds dead ends... Creativity is a gift, yours to guide you through peace of mind and life experiences... we choose our paths. We alone should command our directions, our course to happiness and never despair, no matter what anyone else believes or demands… Ever.

Fragile Mind is one of many, great new songs I have had the pleasure of being a part of. Working with people with heart and yes: Soul is incredible, to say the very least. Thomas Church, Noah Robertson, Ian Sniesak, Kahler Hatrix and others have brought huge smiles and laughter and other emotions, long dead back to the creative process. Art isn’t about orders or demands. It is about doing what you love. When you decide, with who you choose.

A new Jeffrey NOTHING release is so close. We have a plethora of music and amazing minds helping to construct a living, breathing Monster of a musical journey. Our fans deserve NOTHING, but Love too. Happiness is on the horizon. New music and real tours are coming... Soon to be set free, for all to enjoy. Thanks for the patience and hope. Renewed.

Yours truly, JN”

Links:

www.jeffreynothing.com
https://www.facebook.com/jeffreynothing

Corners Of Sanctuary push harder on "Finding Sanctuary"

What I like so much is to see bands evolving. It's always great to have a ear and eye at the start and to see what happens next. Corners Of Sanctuary have developed a lot throughout the time that lays beyond.

Having always been a solid metal band that kept it mostly mid-tempo the band has revamped it's sound with much more power (lot's of double bass drum attacks on this one) and extended work on the vocal side. Their newest track "Finding Sanctuary" taken of the best of compilation album of the same name displays that perfectly for me.

Would like to have and keep that song? Now problem, it's currently up for free download from the band's homepage.

The complete “Finding Sanctuary” album can also be downloaded for free when fans purchase a limited-edition “Kiss Your Ass Goodbye” tour shirt exclusively designed and distributed by LA’s rock fashion guru Metal Babe Mayhem. To receive a 15% discount, use promo code COSMBM15 at checkout by visiting the official Corners of Sanctuarty website by July 10th. 

Update 2018/07/13: The deadline has been extended 'til July 21st. This means the shirt is still available with the same discount code from the link above. Every order also comes with a free download of the "Finding Sanctuary" album.

The new collection, which was mastered by legendary LA producer Bill Metoyer (Slayer, W.A.S.P., Armored Saint), contains 11 tracks, including four completely re-envisioned songs: “Unsung Hero,” “Ready for Battle,” “Eighty-sixed,” and the titled track “Finding Sanctuary”. The physical version of the album is only available at the band’s live shows in either CD or cassette format.

The cover for Corners Of Sanctuary's release "Finding Sanctuary", (c) by Corners Of Sanctuary, used with kind permission

Speaking of live shows: the band will tour Germany in a few weeks plus do more gigs in the US in 2018. Here are the full dates:

July 13th - Hanover, PA
July 20th - Ardmore, PA
August 10th - Frankfurt, Germany
August 11th - Uelsen, Germany
August 13th - Genk, Belgium
August 15th - Hanover, Germany
August 17th - Oldenburg, Germany
August 18th - Lingen, Germany
September 2nd - Long Branch. NJ
October 14th - Baltimore, MD
November 4th Santa Ana, CA.
November 7th - North Hollywood, CA
November 9th - West Hollywood, CA
November 10th - San Diego, CA

A brand new studio album has also been put out in the meantime. Corners of Sanctuary’s fifth album, “The Galloping Hordes,” released on Killer Metal Records, is now available digitally and will be released on CD in the beginning of August.

Ravage to return with fresh EP and touring Europe July 2018

Sometimes things take a long time to come along but when they do they can be good and massive.

Such a thought came to my mind listening to a brand new track from Ravage. It's the first new music the band put's out in 9 years and it's a full blast of Speed Metal. Never thought that many band's would care about this genre too much these days so it hit me up even more massively.

The additional nice surprise is that the band will come to Europe in a few days. They will have their brand new EP "The Derelict City" in their pockets, a limited edition will be available as hardcopy silver disc so there's one more reason to go out and see them live. Here are the exact dates with LICH KING and SEAX.

July 3 - Rostock, Germany - Peter-Weiss-Haus
July 5 - Deinze, Belgium - Elpee
July 6 - London, England - The Dev
July 7 - Manchester, England - Aatma
July 8 - Tilburg, Netherlands - Little Devil
July 9 - Hasselt, Belgium - De Witte Non
July 11 - Paris, France - Le Klub
July 12 - Nantes, France - La Ferrailleur
July 13 - St. Etienne, France - Thunderbird Lodge
July 14 - Olten, Switzerland - Coq D'or
July 15 - Milan, Italy - The One
July 16 - Vienna, Austria - Arena Beisl
July 18 - Budapest, Hungary - Blue Hell
July 20 - Berlin, Germany - Tommyhaus
July 21 - Krakaw, Poland - Warzstat
July 22 - Warsaw, Poland - Poglos
July 23 - Wroclaw, Poland - Liverpool
July 25 - Zielona Gora, Poland- Wyspa
July 26 - Brande- Hornerkirchen, Germany - Headbangers Open Air

The new five song offering "The Derelict City" features four never-before-heard original tracks as well as a cover of a song from the band My Pet Demon.

Speaking of how the rest of the EP will sound like Singer Al Ravage has revealed the following:

"There are more or less traditional NWOBHM-type songs like "The Derelict City", Overkill and Kreator influenced thrashier material like "New Age Survivor" and this first single "Till Heaven Cries" which is a typical speed metal romp with a lot of guitar work I really like."

Ravage The Derelict City EP cover, (c) by Ravage, used with kind permission

"The Derelict City" will be released independently through the band's own label SWWR Recordings and will be distributed by CD Baby.

It will be limited to just 300 collectible eco-digipak CD copies worldwide and will be available for streaming and digital download. Make sure to have a look on their homepage on how to get your copy if you cannot make it to one of their shows.

Ektomorf & Dead Horse Trauma on European tour March 2018

This package that startis to tour straight on March 2nd promises to be a cool package. While Ektomorf should be well known to metal maniacs with their classic and full blast thrash performance it's cool to see they give a unusual opening act a chance.

This time the slot is taken over by Dead Horse Trauma. The band surprised me with the vocal performance on the song "Left Unsaid". It's not too often to be found that the vocalist transport's the message with such great undertones that add his inner feelings to the sound. It sounds as if the performs more from the heart than from the strict formula. The other band members add a pounding and compact riffing sound to the package that make the whole song push straight forward. It feels round and moves me inside.

Come and give these two band's a loud and great welcome on their shows in Europe.
Tickets and more info can be found at http://DHTtour.com and http://DeadHorseTrauma.com

Update 09/03/2018: The show at Zollhaus Leer  / Germany on 22.03.18 has been cancelled. All purchased tickets will be refund at the place of purchase. A replacement show at a different location is in the makings. More info on this will hopefully be available at the event page on Facebook.

3/02 - Pitcher - Düsseldorf, Germany
3/03 - Markthalle - Hamburg, Germany
3/04 - Klub Muzyczny Liverpool - Wroclaw, Poland
3/05 - Aching - Colmar, France
3/07 - Altherax - Nice, France
3/08 - Palazzo Bowling & Beat Club - Chur, Switzerland
3/09 - Metbar - Lenzburg, Switzerland
3/10 - Woody's - Schleiz, Germany
3/11 - Viper Room - Vienna, Austria
3/13 - Barrák Music Club - Ostrava, Czech Republic
3/14 - Nuke - Berlin, Germany
3/15 - Rock Café - Prague, Czech Republic
3/16 - L.A. Cham - Cham, Germany
3/17 - Das Rind - Rüsselsheim, Germany
3/18 - De Verlichte Geest - Roeselare, Belgium
3/19 - From Hell - Erfurt, Germany
3/20 - Chemie Fabrik - Dresden, Germany
3/21 - Alte Zuckerfabrik - Rostock, Germany
3/22 - Kulturzentrum Zollhaus - Leer, Germany
3/23 - Factory Event Center - Magdeburg, Germany
3/24 - Baroeg - Rotterdam, Netherlands
3/25 - Rock Fabrik - Ludwigsburg, Germany
3/26 - Backstage - München, Germany
3/27 - Vègàllomàs Klub - Szombathely, Hungary
3/28 - Form Space - Cluj-Napoca, Romania
3/29 - Narancs Rock Cafe - Békéscsaba, Hungary
3/30 - Sypka - Morkovice, Czechia
3/31 - Hellraiser - Leipzig, Germany
4/01 - MC Fabrika - Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic

Here's the flyer if you'd like to have a copy of it as quick reminder.

GerSwitzer Dead Horse Trauma’s new album, LIFE can be found here:

Physical: https://goo.gl/PlHJ4p
iTunes: https://goo.gl/k2kEko
Google Play: https://goo.gl/IL9lyC
Amazon: https://goo.gl/6FIuyv

Check the band's homepage or Facebook for constant updates.

http://deadhorsetrauma.com/

https://www.facebook.com/deadhorsetrauma

Dancehall to put out post punk on pea green cassettes

This one reminds me so much of how I got hold of my first demo tapes. I used to buy them directly of the hands of band members mostly at shows or when you meet them after school.

The inner sleeve was often handemade based on xeroxed copies made by the musicians themselves. All the music was stored on magnetic tapes that were dubbed by the creators of the music on their home equipment later on also on professionelly produced and printed cassettes.

These guys here called Dancehall have some sort of heavily distorted post punk in the pipe. The recording process came with some nice details that show how quick and raw you can keep things if you want them to. But best of all just have a listen to them while reading the making of.

Owing to the band's obsession with recording songs as quickly as possible, 'KO' and B-side 'Vitamins' were both recorded in one evening at the band's rehearsal space, Kluster Rooms, by friend, producer and co-Vibe/Anti-Vibe label manager, Christopher Smith. The band slept in the studio's live room once recording was completed, only to turn up the next day to their respective jobs unclean but accomplished.

A promo band shot of Dancehall, Photo Credit: Keira Cullinane

The songs will be self released on the band's own Vibe/Anti Vibe label. The fresh tunes will come self dubbed onto pea green cassettes and with risograph printed artwork on candy pink card sleeves for Cassette Store Day 2017. You can order them on Dancehall's Bandcamp page. Release date is October 14 2017 for the digital version, the tapes should ship on or around the same day.

Live dates

October 2017

13 - The Lock Tavern, Camden

14 - TBC, Amsterdam, Netherlands

15 - Roodkapje, Rotterdam, Netherlands

17 - TBC, Bristol

20 - Harbour Arm, Folkestone

More info of the band can be found on Facebook or Instagram.