Smile Empty Soul send a Savior your way

Sometimes there's a need to have a band and song that kicks you out of everyday feelings. 

Smile Empty Soul have put out a new single "Savior".

I've had Smile Empty Soul on my radar for a long time now but never found the proper moment to blog about them. The newest single "Savior" is such a good treat if you feel down and pressed. The performance of the drummer gives me the feeling as if it is knocking down my bad feelings. 

In the vocals you can find a well balanced way of softer verses and a slight and good dosed potion of roughness in the refrain. It fit's so much to this "we kick it all away" moment but it's never done a overloaded way so it always remains in it's true and natural art.

The alt-rock veterans have picked this song as a preview of their upcoming EP, Swan Song, which is scheduled for release at the end of the year through TLG|ZOID / Virgin Music Group.

Check the video out to get your Monday kick now or stream the music on the service of your choice.

Make sure to follow the band on Facebook or simply call up the band's website from time to time to check back for news updates.  

Cassidy Paris kicks you out of sorrow with Wannabe single

Music has the power to get me through difficult times. This single is a fine example on how this works.

The coverart for the new Cassidy Paris output "Wannabe".

It's foundation is based on a pumping solid rock 'n' roll riff that's ready to explode like octane. It's mixed along with a smooth rhythm section that gives me a positive push. But all of this comes to a boil when the vocals come touching in.

In the beginning it's going all easy with verses going step by step. But wait until the refrain starts. I bet you won't get this out of your mind once heard. 

Finally it's also material to shake your legs to it so that's prove it's pure Rock 'n' Roll. Make sure to follow Cassidy Paris as she and the band move further to the next steps. A EP called "FLIRT" is said to come out September 1st 2021.

www.cassidyparis.com 

www.facebook.com/cassidyparisofficial           

Besides all the fun the music spreads the lyric content inside speaks out a serious message as vocalist Cassidy Paris explains: "It focuses on the obsession today’s youth has on popularity and how they are willing to sacrifice their friendships and integrity. The youth of today are not able to be original. They all want to be Tik Tok or You Tube Stars.  I have never really understood how people can fake friendships. Talentless people are trying to become famous for doing nothing at all”.  Yet it was a pattern that was becoming all too familiar, Cassidy explains about the inspiration behind the song. “This song is how people fall into the pattern of becoming followers and focussed on materialistic possessions and fame”.                         

Anfitrite offer EP for very fair price to backers

Some bands can deliver a broken sensible sound with their music. I've found out that the symphonic gothic metal band Anfitrite set's a breathtaking feeling when it comes to calming your mind down. 

The beautiful artwork accompanies to the music of Anfitrite.

 

Recently they've released a teaser of the track "Helena de Troya" and it gave me a moment of well-feeling in all the rushing times we're living in. A fine moment of being balanced. 

Besides this the project needs your support to finish their upcoming EP. This is due to the serious political, economic and social crisis that Venezuela is suffering at the moment, making it very difficult to complete the EP by their own means. 

Starting with a small price of just 3 dollar the band offers a digital copy of the songs with artwork along with the booklet to be send directly to your E-Mail inbox. But of course you're invited to give a higher amount if you can spare more with them. The EP will also be available later as a limited edition CD and USB stick. 

You can directly access the campaign page on Ko-Fi. 

Make sure to see the band's homepage and Facebook site for additional information.

W.R.Ø.N.G put the roughness back in Grunge music

Finally a band that takes the Grunge back to it's rougher coasts. That was my impression when I heard one full song of the upcoming W.R.Ø.N.G EP "Die Alone".

The cover feels a bit unusual at first sight.

 

I had the pleasure to give the second track "Surrender" a pre-listen. The rhythm beats in a unpredicted way and sets a spotlight at the beginning. Rough and loud guitars join in and give a feel-good touch to the listener. They are loud and rude just like you may expect of classic Grunge tracks. But the heavy and dirty vocals finally give the track the destroyer note it needs to create a fully packed grunge release.  
 
Be prepared for the attack. Tomorrow will see the release of the EP "Die Alone". It will contain 4 tracks:

1. Die alone
2. Surrender
3. Poison
4. Ever undo
 
Release date is October 14th, 2020 on every digital platforms!
Be sure to check the Facebook page for all that is about to come.
 
https://www.facebook.com/wrongofficial

New Amoriello tape feat. classic metal with many well known guests

It's the tape that started it all for me. That's why you can see a cassette tape with the Metal Underdogs logo as a banner picture of the support page for the Underdogs on Facebook.

That's why I'm looking forward to the upcoming Amoriello release. This time it seems to be focussed on the high pitched days of Metal as the vocals in the first preview track are dominated of that style.

Be sure to act fast before the dark get's you. Artwork by Juan M. Bello

But also the selection of musicians that contributed to the release talks of a closer look upon certain people to contribute their signature sounds to the release because they all are well experienced in that field.

Carlos Zema All Vocals  (Immortal Guardian, ex-Outworld)
Emilio Martinez  Bass (Yngwie Malmsteen touring)
Ken Stravopoulos  Drums  (ex-Cacophony)
Anthony Stahl  All Keyboards  (Mike LePond's Silent Assassins touring)
James Amelio Pulli   Bass (Impellitteri)
BJ Zampa    Drums (Dokken, House of Lords)
Ronni LeTekro  Guitar Solo  (TNT)
Glen Drover Guitar Solo (ex-Megadeth, ex-King Diamond)
Alex Masi  Guitar Solo  (ex-Metal Blade Records artist)
Toby Knapp  Guitar Solo  (ex-Shrapnel Records artist)

Just relax, sit back and enjoy the title track right here, right now.

The full tape will have five songs that have been created by the studio project. The tracklist reads:

1) Dear Dark     2) This Burning Evil   3) Thirty Four Strings of Fury
4) Magic Wand (Abracadabra)    5) Milan's Lament

Amoriello Dear Dark EP will be released by Ice Fall Records on Cassette this Friday, March 13th 2020 in a edition of only 50 tapes. See the Ice Fall webshop for details and the possibility to place your order.

Hellz reveals the Sinner in us all

Some tracks are just cool. This particular one rocked me step by step. In the beginnins things sound a bit thin and simple but beware. The music evolves heavily.

Hellz surprised me with a massive first single called "Sinner".

While the first seconds may make you want to turn it down again, make sure to hold on. It grabs you a bit more with each passing moment deep inside your heart.The refrain will give you a pusher. It kicked me straight and this single is once more something that proves, that music is motivation. So much energy that she sends this way. It keeps your head in the here and now and wants you to push on forward.


The song is up for purchase on iTunes as well as Amazon.

More music of Hellz is already on the horizont. The debut EP has been announced to hit the shelves early 2020 via R.I.N.D Records. Once the EP is completed touring will be on the horizon both in her native Australia, as well as internationally.

Make sure to keep a eye on the homepage of Hellz and to check Facebook so you won't miss the further story out.

Single Review - BI·AS - Hesitation (Alternative / Nu Metal, 2019)

Fear can be a powerful feeling putting you down. This brand new single talks about that and how to overcome it.

The cover of "Hesitation", (c) by BI·AS

BI·AS is a new formation featuring David Silveria (original drummer of Korn). The single is a preview to their much-anticipated debut EP due out in 2020.

What I like so much about the track is the mixture of the heavyness with lot's of softer notes flying in between them. In detail the track opens up with a short drum intro and direct start of the melodic vocals.

It's those vocals that have heavily been worked on that give the tracks it's characteristic extra note. Here and there few guitar notes come in and finally the roughness kicks in but only with as much heavyweight as needed not breaking you down.

The second half of "Hesitation" goes a slightly rougher route. The drums already announce the new path with a dry electronic snare. Finally the track breaks all barriers at the end giving the full energy outload to the listener. It's like it's just there to give you the power you need to overcome anxiety.

I'm looking forward on how the band will move on. For the first here are some dates the band is going to play. BI·AS are currently booking shows till the end of the year.

Aug 23 - Costa Mesa, CA - Tiki Bar
Sept 26 - Logan, UT - The Cache
Sept 27 - Pocatello, ID -  Bannock County Fair Grounds - Elk stage

You can purchase the single at iTunes and Google Play just to name two. More links and the lyrics can be found at the description below the YouTube video. Follow the band on Facebook to stay up to date.

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.

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.

Music Records announces new releases ahead of CrossRoad Fest

Music Records has celebrated one year of existence a few months ago. They released a quality sampler called "Compendium 1 A Metal Quintessence". It featured a brief overview on the mostly very heavy and agressive bands the label has been working on in the first twelve months along with a extra booklet giving a overview of the bands.

These days there is still a lot going on at the French independent record company. Here's a overview on two of the next albums that come very close to it's release along with some touring info and events that have been set up to celebrate those new silver discs. At the end of the article there's a nice drum cam playthrough of Mexican band Mezcla you surely don't want to miss out.

U-Bilam [Urban Core] release their 1st EP " Evolutions of Mind ":
- September 30th, 2017 on the digital platforms
- October 20th, 2017 as physical edition in shops in Europe

This is a release worth a look if you enjoy bands such as Emmure, Whitechapel, Attila, We Butter the Bread with Earth up.

It is possible to pre-order the EP on the site of the label Music Records: https://store.music-records.fr/cd-dvd-merch/15775-u-bilam-evolutions-of-mind-9702304505007.html

The cover of the upcoming U-Bilam release "Evolutions of Mind", (c) by Music Records, used with kind permission

Of course it will be able to pick up the EP at the stand of the band at shows.

Update 29.09.2017: A very short first trailer for the EP of U-Bilam has been uploaded to YouTube by the label.

U-Bilam will participate in CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th, 2017 and will be on tour in France and Europe in the year 2018.

Event CrossRoad Fest 1: CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th in the Bar Phew to Cholet
Ticket: https://store.music-records.fr/cd-dvd-merch/15774-crossroad-fest-ticket-de-concert-prevente.html

*****

Eyestral [ Progressive Thrash Metal] release out their 1st album " Beyond ":
- October 14th during Release Party with Arcania and All is Dust

Their album will be available in shops in Europe and on all the digital platforms.

This is a release worth a look if you enjoy bands such as Death, Megadeth, Dream Theater, Coroner, Symphony X.

Event: Release Party in October 14th in Rouen in D3 Studio

Eyestral will participate in CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th, 2017 and will be on tour in France and Europe in the year 2018.

Event CrossRoad Fest 1: CrossRoad Fest 1 on October 28th in the Bar Phew to Cholet
Ticket: https://store.music-records.fr/cd-dvd-merch/15774-crossroad-fest-ticket-de-concert-prevente.html

*****

Thibaud, drummer from Mezcla [Death Metal - Flamenco], realized a video drum cam on the song " L’Usurpateur ".

This song is extracted from their last album " Metalmorfosis "


The album is available:
 On their stand
 cultural shops France and Europe
 digital Platforms
 Webstore de Music Records: https://store.music-records.fr/cd/13849-mezcla-metalmorfosis-9780201379624.html

Dates :

06/10 : MELUN

20/10 : PARIS w/ Psychoid & Voice of Winter

21/10 : ROUEN w/ Psychoid & Voice of Winter

23/10 : TBA w/ Psychoid & Voice of Winter

28/10 : CHOLET au CrossRoad Fest #1 | event Facebook : CrossRoad FEst #1 - 28 OCTOBRE 2017

18/11 : ROUEN w/ IMPUREZA

CD Review: Counterfeit Culture - Deathwish (Melodic Metalcore, 2017)

A melodic metalcore release doing things a different way. I was surprised listening to this one.

Having looked through this blog I've noticed lately that there isn't any metalcore up yet. So as the chance came around to review this one I packed it with both hands since the description sounded promising. A band mixing metalcore with several influences like alternative was something I had not experienced before so I gave it a shot.

The cover of Counterfeit Culture's EP "Deathwish", (c) by Counterfeit Culture, used with kind permission

Summary

Of course there are the typical elements to be found - the bold sound, the heavy vocals and hard drums. But beside that there are a lot of variations and unusual things to be found. It starts with the way the songs are build - I've not heard metalcore songs with such a span of variation before.

It starts already with opener "Apothecary". The first half has only slight and softer guitar parts with it. The track turns and evolves to a more heavier piece of music. Anyway it's still different - the track remains a bit slower in terms of tempo and the vocals also provide change all the while.

"Second Soul"  starts out more metalcore typical but won't do so for a long time. The drums give a fresh whirl before things begin to become static. The whole pattern changes in the last third to a more slower formula. I like this for all the way the drums show that they can dominate a track at times and push it into a new direction every here and there.

The EP closes out with "X".  It mixes a rough edgy beginning just to move over to some soft notes. To me it's the most intensive song of the three-song-pack. It's a fine demonstration how to go a slower and more below-the-line attempt in a melodic metalcore song.

Preview Track and Purchase-Link

I've picked one song out of the release for you as a quick check out track. Make sure to support Counterfeit Culture with a purchase of the EP at the band's webshop. The EP comes out 1st August 2017. You can pick up the tracks digitally right now on all standard plattforms such as Apple Music or Spotify if you don't want to wait until August.


Contact Data

Tune in to the social channels of the band at Facebook or Twitter.

Jupiter Hollow reveal tourdates and send us Deep in Space

The release of the debut EP of the progressive duo Jupiter Hollow is drawing near. And as much as you (hopefully) are excited about the release as much I am looking forward to hear the final product.

As of today I can at least share one more video of the EP with you. It reveals one more track and shows how much diversity and feeling the two guys are able to transport with thir music to the listener. This time around it comes more to the rough and cutting side of the band but don't worry: there is still enough space for the melodies and big riffs to shine through the harder parts of the sound. Besides that it is also a perfect demonstration of how good the guys are when it comes to playing shows.

Shows is a good word: the band was able to confirm more dates in the meantime. Just check the column underneath the video to read all the details about the new tour dates.


Show Dates:
December 9 - Barrie, ON - Foxx Lounge
December 10 - Montreal, QC - Club Lambi
January 14 - Toronto, ON - Smiling Buddha (CD Release Show) - info

In the meantime pick up a free download of their track 'Ascending' available at http://www.grantmackenzie.ca/jupiterhollow

The prog duo Jupiter Hollow,
L-R- Grant MacKenzie (guitar, bass, synth), Kenny Parry (vocals, drums, synth/keys). Photo by Sandra Beatty 

The EP 'Odyssey' will drop on January 13th. The concept record will feature 5 tracks to introduce their ambient experimental progressive songwriting plus will act as a prelude to their planned full length 'AHDOMN'. Their sound is referred to as spacey, experimental and refreshing, reminding listeners of bands like Tool, Pink Floyd, A Perfect Circle, Tesseract, The Contortionists and Rush.

For more info make sure to see the band's homepage.

Hail Sagan take a stand against bullying and abuse

Bullying is a crime and not a normal way of treating others! It is a shame that this society doesn't seem to care about this important subject and most of all it is hard for victims to defend themselves or to protect against such attacks. That's the way I look at things and I'm glad there seem to be more people in the world of music who think that this topic needs to be expressed and talked about.

Female fronted Los Angeles hard Rock band Hail Sagan has taken a stand and brings this important matter up to the front in their video for the song "Dark Cloud". 

In a statement the band has clarified what can be seen in the video. Amery says "It's been a great experience being able to broach the subject of bullying and abuse with the lyrics of this song. We took it one step further and created a video with director Matthew Crum and DP Kenny Keeler that visually enhanced the sensitive subject matter.  

We chose to mask the members of the band in an effort to show the world that anyone can be a part of this, you never know who will be under there, maybe even a fan or someone who needs music to save them." 


At the moment you still have the chance to order the first EP that includes the song "Dark Cloud" directly from the band via Pledgemusic. If you order, you'll receive one of the limited edition copies on CD along with a signed print and a download of the songs. There's a second option which offers a signed copy of the record as well.

Make sure to follow the band via Facebook ,Twitter or Instagram so you won't miss out on all the further band activities.

Jupiter Hollow introduce upcoming social/Sci-Fi concept EP with new video

As for me it's impressive to see what people are able to do if they really want to. This thought just came across my mind when I heard about this ambient progressive rock/metal duo from Barrie, Ontario.

It's only these two guys called Grant MacKenzie (guitar, bass, synth) and Kenny Parry (vocals, drums, synth/keys) who've put together music that is breathtaking for me. It is for sure dominated by a progressive tonality but they keep things more straight forward and give the music room to breathe.

You never feel stressed with all the elements they bring in to the sound but instead it's more of a deeply emotional music which keeps sounding straight forward, harmonic and you can understand the song structures straight away. In addition to that the new video is calming with it's beautiful nature recordings. What's even better is the fact that this song is part of their upcoming EP 'Odyssey' which has some concept behind it that reminds me of a novel-like social/Sci-Fi story.

The EP that will be distributed by Milagro Records and is set for release on January 13, 2017 will feature 5 tracks to introduce their ambient experimental progressive songwriting plus will act as a prelude to their planned full length 'AHDOMN'.  

The following column contains spoiler! Please only read on if you like to know things in advance instead of discovering them for yourselves step by step.

The cover of the upcoming Jupiter Hollow EP "Odyssey", (c) by Jupiter Hollow, used with kind permission

"This EP is a concept record, it will tell the story about two characters fighting one another in order to save their civilizations, but they just can’t do it. They’re in control of their civilizations future, but then you actually find out that there's only one person, who’s actually fighting with themselves. They're unhappy with who they are when they look in the mirror and realize they can’t grow past their indifference, and that they actually aren't a good person and the people from their civilization will die." says the duo. "The cool thing about the EP's title track Odyssey is that the story then takes place after the civilization is destroyed, and the character leaves on a spaceship somewhere else looking for a new start. This track will be the introduction into our second record, which will be about them looking for a new start. It will be a more hopeful record. Spoiler Alert! Overall this EP is like the “trailer” to a movie. Odyssey will help listeners get acquainted with us and prepare them for our full album AHDOMN later in the year."

If you'd like to listen to some more stuff right now (like me) you are surely happy to read that some tracks of the EP have already been released. You can buy and listen to these songs on the band's homepage and keep the contact via YouTube, Facebook or Twitter.

Romantic Rebel share ripping explosive video for "Too Far"

I like it when a band goes straight on it and rips it all up in their songs. It's like explosive fire and it can be such a positive kick of energy for yourselves when listening to a band's song like I did with this brand new video single of the hard rock band Romantic Rebel.

The fine thing about "Too far" is that it comes with pumping energy that originates from the pounding guitar riffs along with the hammering drums that change all the way through the song. The drums always seem to fit to the part that is currently played. On top of this there is a voice and lyrics that deeply push into your mind once heard and are hard to get out of the ear.


The band is currently in the studio with Grammy nominated producer, Johnny K (Disturbed, Pop Evil, Sevendust, 3 Doors Down, Megadeth, Machine Head, Nonpoint, etc.) where work has begun on their sophomore album.  

I often asky myselves: what is the role of a producer what can they add to the music?
KT Paige, vocalist of the band gives some insight into the work that is currently going on in the studio:

"This EP is very special to us. Alex and I wrote these songs from the heart; about past experiences and struggles. That said, we were very attached to them and didn't want to see them change. Johnny, being the multi talented producer that he is, helped us take the songs we thought couldn't get any better, to a whole new level. It's amazing how a simple change in melody can make me feel even more emotional about a song than I had felt previously." Says KT Paige.

The cover of the single "Too Far", (c) by Romantic Rebel, used with kind permission

The track is off of their forthcoming EP to be released early Summer 2016 and is available for purchase at iTunes. In addition to the premiere, the band has announced a North American Summer tour with Smile Empty Soul that begins on July 14th in Joplin, MO and concludes September 14th in St. George, UT.

Tour Dates:

5/20/2016 The Back Bar
Janesville, WI

5/27/2016 Brat Fest 2016
Madison, WI

Tour Dates with Smile Empty Soul:
7/14/2016 Guitars Rock 'n' Country Bar Joplin MO
7/15/2016 Fubar St. Louis MO
7/16/2016 Outland Ballroom Springfield MO
7/19/2016 Open Chord Knoxville TN
7/20/2016 Hard Rock Café Louisville Louisville KY
7/22/2016 Oddbodys Dayton OH
7/23/2016 Six Pence Pub Parkersburg WV
7/24/2016 The Gin Mill Northampton PA
7/26/2016 Mac's Bad Art Bar Syracuse NY
7/27/2016 Pineapple Jack's Rochester NY
7/28/2016 The Outpost Kent OH
7/29/2016 The Music Factory Battle Creek MI
7/30/2016 The Machine Shop Flint MI
7/31/2016 Long Shot Rock Falls IL
8/2/2016 Top Fuel Saloon Braidwood IL
8/3/2016 District Bar & Grill Rockford IL
8/4/2016 H.O.M.E Bar Arlington Heights IL
8/5/2016 Q&Z Expo Center Ringle WI
8/6/2016 The Venue Dubuque IA
8/7/2016 The Metal Grill Cudahy WI
8/9/2016 Opinion Brewing Company Newport MN
8/10/2016 Bigs Sports Bar & Billiards Sioux Falls SD
8/12/2016 The Afterlife Lounge Algona IA
8/13/2016 Shamrocks Omaha NE
8/14/2016 The Voodoo Lounge at Harrahs Kansas City MO
8/16/2016 The Vanguard Tulsa OK
8/18/2016 The Rail Club Fort Worth TX
8/19/2016 Clicks Tyler TX
8/20/2016 18th Street Pier San Leon TX
8/21/2016 BFE Rock Club Houston TX
8/23/2016 Boneshakers Corpus Christi TX
8/24/2016 The Patio at La Nueve Luna Abilene TX
8/25/2016 Backstage Lubbock Lubbock TX
8/26/2016 Lowbrow Palace El Paso TX
8/27/2016 The Co-op Albuquerque NM
8/28/2016 Sunshine Studios Live Colorado Springs CO
8/30/2016 City Hall Events Venue Denver CO
9/2/2016 Z Bar Spearfish SD
9/3/2016 Rock Point Bismarck ND
9/4/2016 Bernie's Esquire Club Dickinson ND
9/6/2016 Pub Station Billings MT
9/9/2016 Studio Seven Seattle WA
9/10/2016 The Pin Spokane WA
9/11/2016 Faultline North Bozeman MT
9/14/2016 Firehouse Bar Saint George UT

For more information please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/RomanticRebelRocks
http://www.romanticrebelband.com/

Ways. use silence perfectly on first single

"The music is not in the notes,but the silence in between."

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

This quote crossed my Facebook feed some days ago and I think it perfectly fits to the song "Misty Hope" of the Rock/Hardcore band Ways. from Paris (France). This is a unique song! Wow, not many bands manage to put out such unique stuff on the first attempt.

Besides putting the silence on the right places it's also the mixture between softer and heavier guitar parts that makes this track sounding so great. The vocalist put's his all and everything into the vocals and it's one of the few times in a videoclip that I have the feeling to stand in the first row where you can feel the rough energy of the musicians coming directly your way.



This is the first single of the bands upcoming EP named "Watching From Afar" which will be available soon via the Bandcamp page of Ways. That's also the place where you can pick up a free download of "Misty Hope" in the audio format of your choice, so don't miss out this chance to grab a great song.

The cover for the EP "Watching From Afar", (c) by Ways. used with kind permission

Make sure to follow them via Facebook or Twitter as well as Instagram for all the latest updates coming along with the impending EP release.

Heartlay confirms show in Paris and helps people affected by terrorist attacks

Last friday we all faced the shocking news that terrorists had stormed a show of the band Eagles of Death Metal as well as several other public places like restaurants and bars in Paris to kill innocent people in the name of their religion. A football stadium was also set as a point of attack but happily the security people could help to prevent this from happening by letting a suspicious person not inside.

Let me express my dislike to any sort of violence anywhere in the world for any reason. There is never a place for such a thing and there is never anything that justifies such behaviour. We all live in one world and by the end of the day I'm quite sure we all believe in the same god or how else we may call it.

I can fully understand that it wasn't sure if the show of the alternative metal / industrial rock band Heartlay along with the bands The Way I Am and The Long Escape in Paris will happen on 20th of November 2015. It's just one week after these events and of course there's still tension and fear hanging in the air that such a thing might happen again. Last night a football game here in germany was cancelled due to serious terror warnings.

The good thing to all of this is that the people in Paris don't want to give in. They decide not to let themselves to intimidate by these mean act of violence. Heartly have finally decided to play that show but it will not be the release party for the new EP "Remedy".

(c) by Heartlay, used with kind permission

Instead the show will be dedicated to all the victims of the terroristic attacks. There will be no entrance free taken for this show but at the entry area of the venue you'll find a box when you can give a amount of your choice. The money collected will be given to the "Association française des Victimes du Terrorisme", a association for the victims of the terror. Their will be books of condolence where you can write in a mention and send some positive power to all those affected by the attacks.

You can find more details about the event on the Facebook page.

Heartlay have released their newest single "Consequence" just at the beginning of this month. It shows that the band has continued their path they began with the "Injection" EP. To me it comes around a bit more edgy and rough as the songs on the debut. If you would like to have a copy of the song don't worry. Just head over to Bandcamp. The band has kindly set up a free download of the track there.

Chasing Dragons funding upcoming album teaser EP

Leeds, UK based Metal Band Chasing Dragons are currently running a crowdfunding campaign to help getting the cash needed to record a 3-track record, fully produced by Lee Batiuk of Regal House Studios, featuring songs from the debut album "Faction".

The EP entitled "Faction: Prologue" is meant to be a teaser to the band's upcoming first full length record that the Chasing Dragons are working on since some time. Having found a new bass guitar player in the meantime the band decided to give the album the time it needs to be a decent recording. Since the fans are waiting for new material it sounds a good idea in my ears to build a bridge to the debut record with a EP teaser.

Being a independent band the campaign has been set up to raise the money for the whole recording process as well as for creating a video to help promote the release. The goal has already been reached but there's still time to reserve your copy and help the band to get a bigger and better PR & radio campaign and produce more merchandise for their fans.

There are lots of nice goodies available at the Kickstarter page to choose from that many fans may like, amongst them singing along to one of the EP's tracks, a guest appeareance in the music video as well as music teaching lessongs for vocals or drums via Skype or also in-person. You may also go on stage with the band during their set if you decide to choose that reward. The basic download comes along for 3 GBP and the other options are of course a bit more expensive.

September Mourning releases lyric video and expands Kickstarter campaign

The first time I heard about a collaboration between a metal band with the world of comic characters was way back in 1996. Iced Earth released their "The Dark Saga" album, a concept record about the world of Spawn which also was used as a front cover of the album. I liked the record also it was much softer than the very heavy previous effort "Burnt Offerings". The addition of emotions and more variantions in the songs made it interesting for me.

September Mourning makes a different approach. It is not "only" a character in a comic universe but also a woman who performs under the same name and appeareance a combination of dark alternative Hard Rock. The music part of the project has just released their "Children Of Fate" lyric video from their upcoming EP due out this fall.

The character of September Mourning is a human-reaper hybrid, who feels the need to give some human souls a second chance, and thus toys with Fate. The real human artist carries positive passions into her music constantly encouraging their fans to have “the courage to embrace their passion… to allow yourself to follow your heart and not be a slave to your fears. To know that the only boundaries that exist in our lives are the ones we allow.”


Currently a Kickstarter campaign is up and running to help bring September Mourning's story from the stage to the pages of a comic book. An amazing all female team has been assembled to bring the story to life. The first issue has already been written by Mariah McCourt, illustrated by Summeye Kesgin, and conceptualized by Emily Lazar (September Mourning) & Marc Silvestri.

At the time I'm typing these lines the project was able to reach their initial Kickstarter funding goal for the first issue of the September Mourning comic book in under 72 hours! The first stretch goal of $20,000 has been announced.

When the stretch goal is reached, every person receiving a print or digital copy of September Mourning #1 will now also receive a corresponding digital and/or print copy of September Mourning #2 with a new Summeye Kesgin cover. This is a completely separate comic and continues the story of September Mourning. This exclusive cover edition will only be available through Kickstarter.

The #2 issue is not a separate pledge level, it's a stretch goal added to all who receive #1. So you can pledge other levels or spread the word about the campaign to your friends to help push over the $20,000 pledge level. You can make a pledge on September Mourning's Kickstarter page HERE. 
 
A pdf version of the comic is available for 5 Dollar including a free download of the song "Children of Fate". The prices for a  physical copy start at 15 Dollar. Just check the link for more details.

If you'd like to connect with September Mourning make sure to see the Facebook page or have a eye on Twitter or check in at Instagram.

A Light Within reveal cover and tracklist for upcoming EP 'Body Matter'

After being in the makings for some time A Light Within have finally announced the title and tracklist for the follow-up EP to the 2013 release "Preface".

The new record is entitled "Body Matter" and will see the digital release on July 7th, 2015 through Static Tension Recordings. It will feature six brand-new tracks from the Shoegaze/Post-Metal formation. Check out the full tracklist below:

1. Torn Page #21
2. Page #22 _No Charge
3. Page #51 _Between Shores
4. Page #29 _World Through the Window
5. Page #13 _To Have; To Hold
6. Page #47-48 _Glaso

The label along with the band gave a little insight on the new output with the following describtion on the labels website:

"(...) Step into the gloom, feel its warm embrace. Close your eyes and let the ambience wash over you, the music unfolding into a wave of shoegazing post-metal. Distant, pained clean vocals appear in the haze, drawing the words from pages in a diary and turning them into a catharsis. The guitars flip from fragile melodies to thundering riffs at a moment’s notice, and the bass accentuates the deeper recesses of this stellar - in every way - sound. You are experiencing A Light Within, who have an upcoming EP entitled 'Body Matter.'

"Whether in the mournful dirge of 'World Through The Window' or the swell that engulfs the latter half of lead single 'Between Shores,' this Kansas City-based group embody the notion of emotionally charged music. Drawing comparisons to bands like Junius or Deftones,  they nevertheless carve out a niche that is wholly their own within ambient post-metal.(...)"

They also showed of the cover of "Body Matter" which is totally beautiful and shines like a diamond in my eyes:

(c) by A Light Within, used with kind permission

The band is going to do a couple of shows in the upcoming months, the next chance to see them live is already today. Here are the dates:

Apr 25 The Riot Room Kansas City, MO
May 08 Jackpot Music Hall Lawrence, KS
May 16 recordBar Kansas City, MO
Jun 19 The Riot Room Kansas City, MO

For more details about the band make sure to see the band's Facebook page.

If you still did not have the chance to listen to the first single of "Body Matter" I'll include the video for "Between Shores" right here. Besides the fine video with a outstanding visual exposure it features the full album version of the song.