Sunday, 26 June 2016

JULIET SIMMS Rises Again with the Release of FROM THE GRAVE EP on July 15th



“The concept of this EP is essentially personal growth and strength. Like everyone, I have been through tough times and have always been resilient and rose back up,” says alt-rocker JULIET SIMMS about her new EP FROM THE GRAVE which will be independently released on July 15, 2016. “In many ways, it's a snap shot of finding myself and never giving in.”

“Resilient” is a great word to describe Juliet who has seen the ups and downs of the music industry from up close with her label teams suffering the massive layoffs of the 2000s, another label suffering from the Japanese tsunami of 2010, as well the worldwide exposure of her second place finish on NBC’s hit music competition show The Voice. But she’s managed to keep her head far above the water and bounced back each and every time. With the release of From the Grave, Juliet mined the depths of her songwriting closet and uncovered a collection of mostly previously unreleased tracks that needed to see the light of day. “I wrote these songs in the last couple years,” she explains. “During and after the recording of [2015’s] All or Nothing, a few of the songs I intended for that EP but the crowd funding campaign I ran was for a 6 song EP only. These songs are indicative of life on the other side when having some darkness in your past.”

Kicking off with the scorcher “Get Ready” (which was co-written with her friends in Boys Like Girls), From the Grave is a rollercoaster of guitar-led rock, tempered by Juliet’s distinctive, gravelly purr and growl. The southern rock flair of “Say Hello” benefits from a massive blast of adrenaline and a swagger that’s equal parts of whiskey and swank. “'Say Hello' is a very cocky song,” she laughs. “It’s a part of my personality about unapologetically being yourself. Over the past few years I’ve noticed, and much like a lot of people or public figures, social media has two sides to it - the lovers and the haters. This song is for both. It’s an anthem for the good guys and a big ol’ bird for the bad guys.”

The midtempo pop of “Tidal Wave” shows off Juliet’s command of infectious songwriting and big, booming choruses. “I wrote with [producer] Aaron Sprinkle in Nashville,” she explains. “One of my biggest influences is Sheryl Crow and, at the time, I was immersed in some of her older material. I think that's why this song has a bit of a 90s feel to it. It’s about waiting for something to wake you up and knock you back into shape. It’s a sad happy song.”

The remainder of the eight-track EP travels such roads as the heavy rock of “Trouble Finds You” (“Chaos begets chaos in the song... with order chasing not far behind”), a tender rumination on Kurt and Courtney’s daughter Frances Bean in “Frances” (“Being a huge fan of both since I was a little girl, I naturally was effected by the films Montage of Heck and Soaked in Bleach and the new things learned that it inspired me to write some poetry much like both did”), and the acoustic ballad “Phoenix” (“The metaphor of being a phoenix waiting for your demise, just so you can return again stronger, more beautiful and ready to ‘fly’ again”).

Gearing up for “more touring and perhaps a new LP”, Juliet is once again bouncing back… and the great thing about her is that each time she’s presented with an obstacle, it only makes her determination and her songwriting so much stronger. If this EP is any indication, the lyrics in the song “Phoenix” perfectly captures her trajectory: “Like a phoenix, I’m just waiting to fly.”



From The Grave will be released on July 15, 2016.

Friday, 20 May 2016

geordie. Drops Official Music Video for “Tastes Like Chocolate”



LOS ANGELES, CA // May 20, 2016: The freshest new vibes coming from the streets of western LA are from rising singer-songwriter and producer, geordie. The “agro-pop” mastermind and postgraduate student at Georgetown University has been maniacally hacking away in his makeshift studio, cultivating a sexual (and sometimes comedic) sonic upheaval unlike any before it.

geordie.’s latest single, “Tastes Like Chocolate,” is about a Caucasian young man who has discovered his budding palate for “less vanilla” tastes. geordie. describes his music as largely autobiographical, and adds, “The song was written about a girl, as is so often the case; the kind of girl you want to celebrate like royalty. A white guy has a crush on this black chick, and he immediately gets this wonderful ego boost because of her mild validation. He thinks he’s the man and that she’s down with him, when in reality she just likes having him around fawning like a puppy.” The song and video clock in at just over four minutes, chock-full of exaggerated flattery and pandering to the new chocolate lady love of his life.

View the Official Music Video for geordie.’s “Tastes Like Chocolate” Below:



One might ask where a fun and sexy lyrical theme like this originates: “The song just appeared out of thin air,” geordie. explains. “I knew I was I was going to write something that was about her because I had no choice. I was thinking only of her. I just didn’t know what it was going to be about until I got to the chorus, and then I found it.” When asked how long it took to craft the words, he replied, “[It was] by far the fastest song I’ve ever completed. Took maybe two days, tops. You basically black out, and wake up and have a song.”

But as geordie. is known to do, there is an honest and forthright theme woven delicately throughout, and in his own words, “this song/video is about the celebration of being with someone you’re proud of. It’s self-deprecating and satirical at its core. I don’t know about anyone else, but when I honestly catch feelings for someone, it shows. There’s really nothing I can do to suppress that.”

The “Tastes Like Chocolate” music video was directed by John Connaboy, Danny Gilani and geordie.

Biography:

Equipped with a free spirit and a mind of his own, geordie. is making moves. The LA-based musician is set on infusing the scene with his incomparable vibe complete with grit, groove, and sexual satire. The self-proclaimed “badass mother fucker poet” draws influence from anything and everything, making his sound something worth hearing. geordie. celebrates individualism through creating tunes with elements spanning from hip-hop to country to straight up sunshine. His breakthrough jam “Tastes Like Chocolate” is a comedic ear-worm bound to reel in new listeners as this artist crafts his next hit.

geordie.’s music is destined to inspire a good time. Listen, laugh, and party on.

Wednesday, 18 May 2016

Hospitality In The Park - London Elektricity Big Band Announced



For a landmark event we had to pull in a landmark performance. On Saturday 24th September London Elektricity will be taking to the stage at Hospitality In The Park - but not for any ordinary DJ set. He'll be presenting, for the very first time, the London Elektricity Big Band including the return of multi-award winning jazz singer Liane Carroll, rising talent Emer, Reprazent frontman Dynamite MC and an incredible 12-piece brass band from Riot Jazz!

"The London Elekricity Big Band will be a world first - a 12 piece brass band, rhythm section and 3 vocalists playing drum & bass for an hour. This will be totally different to the old 'London Elektricity Live' from 2003. I couldn't and wouldn't have thought about doing this without Liane Carroll, who since we last performed together has won every single award going for best British jazz artist, but moreover she is simply the best living British vocalist in my opinion. We'll be cherry picking moments from the London Elekricity back catalogue, repping "Why Are We Here?" and a couple of surprise selections as well. Hospitality In The Park will be our first and quite possibly only show anywhere in the world this year. Oh I nearly forgot - I get to play bass in the band - that's one tick off of my bucket list!" - London Elektricity



This unmissable performance is just one of the many live sets to be taking place throughout the day. Find out about the other live acts to be joining us at Hospitality In The Park below!

Gentleman's Dub Club will be joining London Elek on the Hospitality mainstage! And 'if the truth be told' this nine-piece band's high energy blend of dub, reggae, roots and ska go hand in hand with our all day outdoor BBQ, blazing sunshine and a beer or two.

Med School's Ukrainian five-piece band The Erised will be making their debut UK performance on Soul In Motion and Med School's stage!

Frederic Robinson will be bringing his unique live show to Soul In Motion and Med School's stage. His live sound synthesis uses a mixture of software and hardware to bring a new lease of life to his own signature style of drum & bass.

Don't miss out on the perfect festival season finale! First release tickets are on sale now, if you want to get your hands on one you better act fast, these are likely to be gone before the month is up!

TICKETS HERE

ZAKK WYLDE ANNOUNCES ZAKK WYLDE EMOJI SET - NEW U.S. / CANADIAN TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED



Guitar icon ZAKK WYLDE has released a new custom emoji set available starting today via Emoji Fame, the go-to company specializing in making emoji sets for musicians. Thus far, the artist emoji space has been dominated by hip-hop and EDM acts, Zakk Wylde's set is one of the first on the rock/metal side of things, and the first for a guitar god.

"Many members of the Emoji Fame team are secretly guitar nerds, so when Zakk Wylde agreed to do an emoji set with us we were beyond excited," says Gavin Rhodes, co-founder of Emoji Fame. "Zakk is arguably one of the top-ten most influential guitar players of all time and we're immensely proud of the set that we put together with him. His emojis are hilarious with a double dose of SHRED thrown in for good measure.”

The emoji set is available starting today at itunes.emojifame.com.

ZAKK WYLDE recently announced new U.S. and Canadian tour dates in continued support of his new LP Book Of Shadows II. Wylde will hit over 40 cities spread out across the U.S. and Canada this summer including a performance at Heavy MTL Festival in Montreal on August 7th, a first for him as a solo artist. Tickets will go on sale this Thursday, May 12th. Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown and Jared James Nichols will serve as support.

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY will also be included as one of the marquee acts on OZZFEST MEETS KNOTFEST announced just yesterday.

Wylde, as always, has been on the road nonstop. He just wrapped up a buzzworthy stint on Steve Vai's GENERATION AXE TOUR and prior to that served as a marquee artist on THE HENDRIX EXPERIENCE TOUR with the likes of Billy Cox and Buddy Guy. This is the first time Zakk has toured as a headliner in the U.S. and Canada since last year's Unblackened tour.

7/8: Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey Live 7/9: Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom 7/10: Austin, TX @ Emo’s 7/12: Houston, TX @ House of Blues 7/13: New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues 7/15: Orlando, FL @ The Plaza Live 7/16: Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade 7/18: Millvale, PA @ Mr.Smalls Theatre 7/19: New York, NY @ Webster Hall 7/20: Norfolk, VA @ The NorVa 7/22: Charlotte, NC @ Amos’ Southend 7/23: Louisville, KY @ Mercury Ballroom 7/24: Chicago, IL @ Concord Music Hall 7/26: Minneapolis, MN @ Skyway Theatre 7/28: Detroit, MI @ The Majestic Theatre 7/29: Cleveland, OH @ The Agora Theatre 7/30: Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre Of Living Arts 7/31: Boston, MA @ Royale 8/2: Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live 8/4: Uncasville, CT @ Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun Casino *no support 8/7: Montreal, QC @ HEAVY MTL 8/8: Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Concert Theatre 8/10: Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave 8/11: Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theatre 8/13: Sturgis, SD @ Full Throttle Saloon *no support 8/15: Denver, CO @ The Summit Music Hall 8/16: Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot 8/18: Missoula, MT @The Wilma 8/19: Calgary, AB @Flames Central 8/20: Saskatoon, SK @ O’Brian’s Event Centre 8/21: Winnipeg, MB @ The Garrick Centre 8/23: Edmonton, AB @ The Ranch Roadhouse 8/25: Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom 8/26: Seattle, WA @ Showbox SODO 8/27: Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory Concert House 8/28: Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater 8/30: San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom 9/1: Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues 9/2: Tempe, AZ @ The Marquee 9/3: Los Angeles, CA @ The Fonda Theatre

Book Of Shadows II was released on April 8th, 2016 via Entertainment One Music (eOne Music), Zakk Wylde's first solo release in 20 years. This release is the highly anticipated follow up to 1996’s Book of Shadows LP, a classic album Wylde released between his work with Ozzy Osbourne that has since become a fan favorite. The album debuted at #2 on the Independent Chart, #3 on the Rock Chart and # 6 on the Current Albums Chart, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

The fearlessly introspective melancholy and melody of Book of Shadows helped to make its follow-up one of Rolling Stone’s Most Anticipated Albums of 2016. As fierce and diverse as his work in Black Label Society and as large as his accomplishments as lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne have been, Book of Shadows II offers an even richer look into the spirit and psyche of one of the most beloved pillars of the hard rock community. Brand new tracks like “Sleeping Dogs,” “Tears of December,” “Darkest Hour,” “Harbors of Pity,” and “The King” are bold proclamations of intense feeling and powerful catharsis.

Zakk Wylde’s powerful pipes, mayhem-inducing charisma, mischievous humor, and instantly recognizable pinch-harmonic driven blues based histrionic guitar shredding have made him the world’s most beloved American Guitar Hero.

SKUMLOVE RESPONDS TO OUTRAGE CREATED BY CONTROVERSIAL SINISTER MINISTER ALBUM COVER



(EDITED NC-17 VERSION OF ALBUM COVER)

"When I decided to make this album cover, I wanted to do something that would make some noise. It just seems that the rebellious, unsafe and offensive side of rock music is going extinct. So what better way to pump a little life into it than to get five naked women wearing masks and make them my personal human throne? EMP has already gotten some up-turned eyebrows but they have stood by me. I don't want your parents to like my music. I don't want your parents to approve of the art. I don't want your pastor to be "OK" with the lyrical content. This is a Rock 'N' Roll; it's dirty, it's ugly and it's offensive. I think it's time we re-teach what Rock 'N' Roll really is. This is my big middle finger to the vanilla music industry. It's time for the zombie apocalypse of Rock 'N' Roll to RISE!" - Skum of Skumlove



Skumlove has recently signed to EMP Label Group and will be releasing their 2nd full length album "SINISTER MINISTER" on June 6, 2016 With a reunion show that same night at the Whisky A GoGo.

Coast Modern drop new track



"Plucky synths rock back and forth like a hammock swaying in the sunset, the perfect nest to cuddle up with your lover and consider how damn lucky you are. Amending your lifestyle isn’t the easiest of tasks, but doing it for the one you love with “Guru” as your soundtrack can definitely be worth it." - Consequence of Sound



"the L.A. duo combines upbeat synth-pop with meandering lyrics that capture the lackadaisical nature of, well, life." - NYLON

"Los Angeles duo Coast Modern made a huge splash with their debut single “Hollow Life.” It’s got around 400,000 streams on SoundCloud and almost a million on Spotify, and they’re keeping that momentum going with new single “Animals.” The song is full-bodied and warm, with a lighthearted bounce and a soaring melody perfect for this transition out of the winter months. " - Pigeons and Planes

Catch Coast Modern on tour:

May 22- The Orange Peel-Asheville, NC* May 23- The National - Richmond, VA* May 24- 9:30 Club - Washington, DC* May 25- Terminal 5 - New York City , NY* May 27- Electric Factory - Philadelphia, PA* June 10- Popscene - San Francisco, CA June 14- Upstate Concert Hall - Clifton Park, NY** June 15- College Street Music Hall - New Haven, CT** June 16- Rough Trade, Brooklyn, NY June 18- Amos' South End - Charlotte, NC** June 20- The Music Farm - Charleston, SC** June 21- Center Stage - Atlanta, GA** July 8- Summerfest - Milwaukee, WI July 9- Power & Light District - Kansas City, MO** July 11- Deluxe @ Old National Center - Indianapolis, IN** July 12- First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN** July 13- Metro - Chicago, IL** July 15- PromoWest Fest - Columbus, OH July 18- The Ready Room - St. Louis, MO** July 19- Cannery Ballroom - Nashville, TN** July 23- Mo Pop Festival - Detroit, MI August 1- The Crescent Ballroom - Phoenix, AZ** August 3- The Fonda Theatre - Los Angeles, CA** August 5- The Observatory - Santa Ana, CA** September 2 - Bumbershoot - Seattle, WA September 19 - Wonder - Portland, OR*** September 21 - Commodore - Vancouver, BC*** September 25 - Gothic - Denver, Colorado*** September 27 - Varsity - Minneapolis, MN*** September 28 - Metro - Chicago, IL*** September 30 - Phoenix - Toronto, ON*** October 4 - Royale - Boston, MA*** October 5 - TLA - Philadelphia, PA*** October 6 - 930 Club - Washington, DC*** October 8 - Variety Playhouse - Atlanta, GA*** October 9 - 3rd and Lindsley - Nashville, TN*** October 11 - Granada - Dallas, TX*** October 12 - White Oak - Houston, TX*** October 13 - Emo's - Austin TX*** October 16 - Observatory North Park - San Diego, CA*** October 17 - Observatory - Orange County, CA*** October 18 - Belasco Theatre - Los Angeles, CA*** October 19 - Warfield - San Francisco, CA***

* supporting BØRNS ** supporting The Wombats *** supporting The Temper Trap

+ more festivals to be announced

ABORTED announce European tour with Kreator, Sepultura and Soilwork



In support of ABORTED’s latest studio album 'Retrogore' - which is out now via Century Media Records - the band will be hitting the road for a run of European dates next February/March alongside Kreator, Sepultura & Soilwork.

The band comments: “Retrogore over Europe... After the festival season this will be our main trek throughout Europe to bring you some of that delicious gory 80's horror sauce known as RETROGORE! And what a line up it is! We are beyond happy to be sharing the stage with giants like Kreator, Sepultura (arise anyone?) and our friends in Soilwork. Prepare for a very diverse bill of pummeling and kick ass metal! Get ready for a few surprises from our side as well! See you all then!“

ABORTED live:

2017 tour with Kreator, Sepultura and Soilwork

02.02.2017 NL – Tilburg, 013 03.02.2017 DE – Munich, Tonhalle 04.02.2017 DE – Hamburg, Mehr! Theater 06.02.2017 DK – Copenhagen, Amager Bio 07.02.2017 NO – Oslo, Rockefeller 12.02.2017 EE – Tallinn, Rock Cafe 13.02.2017 LT – Vilnius, Siemens Arena 15.02.2017 PL – Warsaw, Progresja 17.02.2017 DE – Wiesbaden, Schlachthof 18.02.2017 DE – Berlin, Columbiahalle 19.02.2017 CH – Pratteln, Z 7 21.02.2017 IT – Trezzo, Live Club 22.02.2017 FR – Grenoble, Summum 23.02.2017 ES – Barcelona, Razzmatazz 24.02.2017 ES – Madrid, Riviera 25.02.2017 FR – Toulouse, Bikini 26.02.2017 FR – Paris, Bataclan 28.02.2017 UK – Manchester, Academy 01.03.2017 IR – Dublin, Vicar Street 02.03.2017 UK – London, O2 Forum 03.03.2017 BE – Torhout, De Mast 04.03.2017 DE – Essen, Grugahalle

Tickets: http://kreator-terrorzone.de/tour

Worldwide festival appearances 2016:

02.07.2016 Rock Al Parque – Bogota, Colombia 09.07.2016 Antwerp Metal Fest – Merksem, Belgium 16.07.2016 Gefle Metal Fest – Gavle, Sweden 27.07.2016 Metaldays – Tolmin, Slovenia 30.07.2016 Nord Open Air – Essen, Germany 06.08.2016 Le Stock – La Louviere, Belgium 07.08.2016 Live Music Hall – Cologne, Germany 11.08.2016 Brutal Assault – Josefov, Czech Republic 01.09.2016 Deathfest Open Air – Andernach, Germany 07.10.2016 Trondheim Metal Fest – Trondheim, Norway 08.10.2016 Hell Over Vellach – Sachsenburg, Austria

ABORTED line-up:

Sven De Caluwe: Gurgloroth Mendel Bij De Leij: Flesh Upon The Razor Wire JB van der Wal: Nocturnal Pulse Ken Bedene: Hymen Blaster Ian Jelekis: Immaculate Resection

Gone Is Gone (Mastodon, At the Drive-In, QOTSA Members) Present ‘Violescent’ In The Studio



New experimental rock band, Gone Is Gone was formed by revered musicians Tony Hajjar, Mike Zarin, Troy Van Leeuwen and Troy Sanders. The collaborative group have announced their self-titled debut EP for a July 8th release through their own imprint label via Rise Records/BMG.

In anticipation of the impending EP, Gone Is Gone have unveiled an in-studio video for their current offering ‘Violescent’here:



In their recent interview with RollingStone.com, Tony Hajjar says “It feels good to know that all this music will see the light of day soon.”

“The vibe from Day 1 was, and has been, very therapeutic and refreshing for me,” adds Troy Sanders. “The chemistry was immediate.”

What was once thought a distant idea, is now reality. It began when members Tony Hajjar and Mike Zarin were writing music for film trailers and they realized they had created a sound that needed a life outside of that medium. It needed a band. Fast forward through some phone calls and drinks: Troy Van Leeuwen was in. The trio met and wrote an EP within the first several sessions, but were still in need of the right vocalist. Upon first listen, Troy Sanders understood the vision and flew to Los Angeles to write and record vocals on the spot. Introducing, Gone Is Gone.

For more information visit: www.GoneIsGoneOfficial.com

Tuesday, 17 May 2016

Mercury Girls share new tune, add more east coast shows with Flowers and Fear of Men



Philadelphia, PA’s Mercury Girls features Sarah Schimineck, Kevin Attics, Andrew Hagiwara, Chris Schackerman, and Kevin O'Halloran. Schimineck, formerly of NYC Popfest alums Pet Milk is flanked by the shimmery and adventurous guitar interplay of Attics (Literature, former Pitchfork Media) and O'Halloran (of indie heroes Little Big League, Run For Cover Records). Hagiwara and Schackerman provide a sturdy rhythmic base, creating a sound that's equally lush and driving, using Sarah Records-inspired pop as a basis for savvy de-/reconstruction and sonic experimentation. Despite having only started in March of 2015, the group has achieved a lot. They've collected many endorsements, including those from Chickfactor Magazine, Pains of Being Pure at Heart's Kip Berman and NPR, they've shared the stage with bands such as Expert Alterations, Joanna Gruesome, Beverly, TEEN, Eternal Summers, and their 2016 SxSW visit was a head-turning, mind-melting blast.

Now they cap off their first year with the release of their debut single, Ariana. While their sound uses classic indiepop as a jumping-off point, there are bits of shoegaze, post-punk and DIY punk in the mix that recall like-minded bands like Veronica Falls, Makthaverskan, Fear of Men and Frankie Rose. "Ariana" is gorgeous tangle of chorused, jangling guitars and Sarah's dreamlike vocals. A marvelous two and a half minutes of perfect, forward-thinking pop.

Here we find the band sharing the AA-side and it forms a marvelous counterpoint to "Ariana." "All That Heaven Allows" leans more on the band's post-punk inspirations, marked by a careening rhythm and a huge chorus that will stick in your head for days.

Ariana is out May 20th, just in time for the band's engagement at NYC Popfest alongside legends The Primitives and The Chesterfields. The spring is looking to be fully scheduled with shows up and down the east coast, keeping the band busy while they write and record their highly-anticipated debut album, slated for release on Slumberland this fall.

Order the single HERE.



Upcoming shows:

May 20 - Philadelphia, PA at Space 1026 (Steve Keene Art Exhibit with My Favorite, The Snow Faeries) May 21 - New York, New York at Knitting Factory (NYC Popfest w/The Primitives, The Chesterfields & more) June 11 - New York, New York at Cake Shop (with Flowers, Expert Alterations, DJs Kip Berman, Drew Citron, Bill Pearis) June 14 - Philadelphia, PA at Johnny Brenda’s (with Flowers, Beverly) July 01 - Philadelphia, PA at Johnny Brenda’s (with Fear of Men) August 12 - Athens, GA (Athens Popfest)

Join The Safe Side As They ‘Blossom’: Essex Pop Punks Unveil Sophomore EP Details & Stream Lead Single



“When we listen to our own songs we try to look at them like this: would we listen to them if we weren’t in the band?” muses Danny Gaisford, bassist of Essex pop punks, Safe Side. “We genuinely would,” he (fortunately) confirms. “There would be no point writing the songs if we didn't believe in them. There's loads of underground bands in the scene at the moment, and I hope that we have set ourselves apart; we’re certainly very proud of our new songs and feel that there’s something different about them.”

Said new songs form Safe Side’s sophomore E.P ‘Blossom’, a collection of highly infectious tuneage which successfully blends the band’s pop punk roots with elements of Alternative rock, and vocalist Frank Yates’ distinctly homegrown delivery. “Frank's voice sets us apart,” opines Danny; “Pop punk is known for American pronunciation, no matter where you are from. So having a particularly British voice in our sound is a good thing; the genre is bursting at the seams at the moment, which is great of course, but I think it's always good to look outside of the box sometimes and push yourself to try something different. And for us that is layering a distinct kind of vocal over our instrumentation.”

To match their creative step up, Safe Side – completed by guitarists Jordan Tuffen and Chris Smart, and drummer Callum Tuffen – moved from the home studio environment of their debut E.P to tracking the songs of ‘Blossom’ at Southampton’s The Ranch (Milk Teeth, Creeper, Boston Manor). “The ‘real studio’ environment was very much an eye opener for us, we learned a lot from going there,” Danny recalls; “Only a couple of us had ever been to a studio before, and we really wanted to collectively experience that learning curve. And as a result we think ‘Blossom’ feels more like a real record. We took time on it and put a lot of thought and effort into every part, and we think it shows. We wanted to make sure it's something we would want to listen to as fans.”

Safe Side ‘Blossom’ Tracklisting:

1. Wilt 2. In My Place 3. Framework 4. Resolve

Catch Safe Side Live:

August 13th, Landslide Festival, Brentwood August 14th Live It Up Festival, Northampton

Monday, 16 May 2016

POP EVIL TO SUPPORT 3 DOORS DOWN IN AMERICA ON TOUR NOW, ALL NEW LP UP OUT NOW!



POP EVIL today have announced a new batch of select U.S. dates supporting 3 DOORS DOWN with friends in RED SUN RISING opening the night. The trek kicks off on August 26th in Charleston, WV at the Municipal Auditorium and goes through the first week of October ending in Durham, NC at the Durham Performing Arts Center. The dates will be the precursor to POP EVIL supporting 3 DOORS DOWN in Europe in October and November, those dates were announced last week.

POP EVIL return to Europe for the first time since their triumphant appearance on the 2015 Download Festival main-stage and the release of their radio chart-topping and critically acclaimed album Up, of which Classic Rock Magazine said 'there's no shortage of boisterous anthems.' Having grown from strength to strength off the success of Up stateside, their achievements have been recognised and endorsed by Kerrang! Magazine, who said their 'success is not just inevitable, but deserved.'

Currently, the band is out with ROB ZOMBIE and DISTURBED on a month long trek with a highlighted stop at ROCK ON THE RANGE this weekend. POP EVIL also just launched a new virtual reality video for their hit single "Take it All," making the band one of the first rock acts to do so. Watch the 3D trailer below.

The 3D video is being offered in part of a new bundle package the band will release on May 27th. The "kit" comes with everything you need to experience a Pop Evil concert like never before. You’ll receive a customized Pop Evil VR Google Cardboard headset, an exclusive tour T-shirt and a collectable copy of the UP album, autographed in gold by every member of the band, exclusive guitar picks and a 18 x 24 Lithograph Poster.

8/26/16 – Charleston, WV – Municipal Auditorium 8/28/16 – Akron, OH – Goodyear Theater at East End 9/10/16 – Atlantic City, NJ - Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars 9/11/16 – Red Bank, NJ – Count Basie Theatre 9/13/16 – Syracuse, NY – Crouse Hinds Theatre 9/14/16 – Boston, MA – Orpheum Theatre 9/16/16 – Albany, NY – The Palace Theatre 9/17/16 – Ocean City, MD – The Inlet – Ocean City Bike Fest (Outdoors) 9/21/16 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre 9/23/16 – Shreveport, LA – Shreveport Municipal Auditorium 9/26/16 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium 9/28/16 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theater @ Old National Centre 10/5/16 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit 10/7/16 – Durham, NC - Durham Performing Arts Center

October

19 Berlin, Germany, Columbiahalle 20 Hamburg, Germany, Mehr Theatre 22 Cologne, Germany, Palladium 24 Munich, Germany, Zenith 25 Stuttgart, Germany, Schleyerhalle 26 Vienna, Austria, Gasometer 28 Winterthur, Switzerland, Eulachhalle 29 Offenbach, Germany, Stadthalle 31 Tilburg, Netherlands, 013

November

02 Bristol, UK, 02 Academy 03 Birmingham, UK, 02 Academy 05 Manchester, UK, Academy 06 London, UK, Hammersmith Apollo

GREGORY PORTER BECOMES FIRST JAZZ ARTIST TO BREAK INTO UK TOP 5 FOR OVER A DECADE with new album 'Take Me To The Alley'



Image courtesy of Charlie Gates

This generation’s most successful jazz and soul singer-songwriter, the man in the hat, Gregory Porter, makes chart history today with his newly-released album 'Take Me To The Alley', which becomes the first jazz record to break into the Top 5 for over ten years.

Released last Friday, the critically-acclaimed 'Take Me To The Alley', was met by 4 and 5 star album reviews across the board in the national press, and becomes Porter's highest chart position yet.

This extreme lift in popularity puts Gregory safely above current pop albums from the likes of Justin Bieber, Jess Glynne and Adele and just behind Drake, Beyonce, Skepta and Radiohead. It is the first time a jazz album has been in the Top 5 of the charts since Jamie Cullum with 'Catching Tales' in 2005.

Commenting on this impressive achievement, Porter stated: "I'm very grateful for the success of Take Me To The Alley. The chart position it's reached around the world is very exciting, and its success is an example of the acceptance of my music. I am very thankful."

This level of public affection has seen Porter become an adopted national treasure in this country, having performed for the Queen multiple times, and graced the stages of the UK's best venues and summer festivals. The singer recently featured as the only musical performance on BBC1's 'Attenborough at 90' and joined the country's best performers on BBC2's 'Shakespeare Live!'. He also led a chorus of music stars, including Mumford and Sons, in a moving version of Prince's 'Purple Rain' on BBC2's 'Later with Jools'.‎

Last month saw Porter complete an extensive sold-out UK Headline Tour, opening and closing at prestigious London venues The Royal Albert Hall and Hammersmith Apollo. And after a show-stopping performance at Glastonbury last year, Gregory returns to the UK's biggest music festival next month to perform on the Pyramid Stage, on Sunday 26th June at 1pm, on the bill with such artists as Muse, Adele, Coldplay and Beck who also perform headline slots at this year's festival.

Porter stated: "Glastonbury has a tradition of being open to all types of music but it's really exciting to be performing on the main stage. The audience response to my performance last year really blew me away - the incredible musical atmosphere - I'm really looking forward to performing again and bringing my music back to Glastonbury this summer."

VOLBEAT - NEW ALBUM SEAL THE DEAL & LET’S BOOGIE OUT JUNE 3rd



VOLBEAT reveal the details for their anxiously awaited sixth full-length album, Seal the Deal & Let’s Boogie available June 3rd. Multi-platinum selling Danish hard rock outfit uncork the first single The Devil’s Bleeding Crown and announce the pre-order for the album today. Fans who pre-order the album will receive an instant download of the first single. Pre-order the album and check out the single’s lyric video HERE.

The Devil’s Bleeding Crown pairs a galloping guitar riff with propulsive thrashed-out grooves. The band performed it only once in entirety last summer in Odense, Denmark and had fans waiting for more. The track quickly builds into an anthemic refrain meant to be chanted at festivals worldwide. It’s classic VOLBEAT through and through.

Earlier this week the band teased album details to their dedicated fans by creating an online treasure hunt. Clues for the album title were left in streaming playlists, listed on their social media channels, and in the Rebels & Angels community forum. Once fans uncovered the words from the album title, they entered those words on the Volbeat website to reveal the characters from the album cover art which also unlocked the album pre-order. They also unveiled a video teaser for the album. Check out the teaser here:



Produced by longtime collaborator Jacob Hansen and co-produced by frontman Michael Poulsen and lead guitarist Rob Caggiano, the record includes a total of 13 new tracks, reflecting their signature hybrid of rock prowess, metal power, blues soul, and rockabilly swing. The full tracklisting is below.

On the new album, “After months writing and recording, we’re thrilled to finally be able to unleash Seal the Deal & Let’s Boogie into the world,” says lead singer Michael Poulsen. "Play it loud!”

TRACKLISTING:

1. The Devil’s Bleeding Crown 2. Marie Laveau 3. For Evigt 4. The Gates of Babylon 5. Let It Burn 6. Black Rose 7. Rebound 8. Mary Jane Kelly 9. Goodbye Forever 10. Seal The Deal 11. Battleship Chains 12. You Will Know 13. The Loa’s Crossroad

VOLBEAT emerged from Copenhagen in 2001. Since then, they’ve tirelessly clawed their way to hard rock’s upper echelon with endless touring and a string of five beloved full-length albums. Recently, their 2010 album Beyond Hell/Above Heaven has sold more than 1.5 million and featured hit single “A Warrior’s Call” and adds the band’s 8 Top 5 singles at Active Rock with 5 number ones! 2013’s Outlaw Gentlemen & Shady Ladies bowed at #9 on the Billboard Top 200 upon release and it spawned the GRAMMY Award nominated “Room 24” [featuring King Diamond]. It received Platinum Certifications in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Gold in Canada, Finland, Switzerland and USA. Volbeat has announced their summer 2016 tour which includes headlining Rock Am Ring. The band has sold in excess 3.5 million records worldwide.

Danish Bass Player Kaspar Boye To Join The Wildly Successful Rock Band VOLBEAT

”We are happy to announce that Kaspar Boye Larsen is officially now the new bass player in VOLBEAT. We just got back from a great US tour and Kaspar showed as we expected that he's the real deal. The fans love him and we can't wait for the rest of you to hook up with us as a full band again on our coming shows.”

Kaspar Larsen has previously been part of punk rock outfit The Hitchcocks and alt metal The Kandidate, and even went on a tour with Volbeat as a support act in 2010. Kaspar Boye Larsen will have his European debut on Rock am Ring June 3rd, same day as the album is released worldwide. Kaspar elaborates:

"10 years ago I returned from VOLBEAT’s very first European tour that I joined as a tour session bass player. I was so proud of playing with one of my favorite bands and loaded with great memories of good times but also sad that it was over. A lot of things have happened in the meantime but the songs are as great as ever and I’m super stoked to be joining one of my favorite bands on stage, only this time on a permanent basis! I’m very grateful that the guys thought of me after all these years and I can’t wait to see you all out there!"

You will also see Kaspar Boye Larsen featured in the brand new music video to The Devil’s Bleeding Crown.

2016 TOUR DATES

13 April US Los Angeles, CA The Roxy 14 April US Las Vegas, NV The Joint* 15 April US Indio, CA Coachella 18 April US Modesto, CA Modesto Center Plaza* 20 April US Chico, CA Silver Dollar Fairgrounds* 21 April US Fresno, CA Rotary Amphitheater† 22 April US Indio, CA Coachella 24 April US Phoenix, AZ Mesa Amphitheatre* 25 April US El Paso, TX A. Chavez Theater* 26 April US Lubbock, TX Lonestar Amphitheater* 03-05 June GER Vulkaneifel/Flugpl.Mending Rock am Ring Festival 03-05 June GER Nürnberg / Zeppelinfeld Rock Im Park Festival 05 June NL Nijmegen FortaRock 06 June US Bangor, ME Rise Above Festival 07 June GER Berlin Zitadelle 09-11 June AT Vienna Novarock 10-12 June FR Paris Download 17-19 June BE Dessel Graspop 17-19 June FR Clisson Hellfest 22 June NO Bergen Bergenhus Festning 24 June DK Odense Tinderbox 25 June FR Strasbourg Artefacts Festival 29 June DK Nibe Nibe Festival 30 June-02 July SE Norrköping Bravalla Festival 07-09 July ES Viveiro Resurrection Fest 09 July SE Stockholm Monsters Of Rock 17 July FI Joensuu Ilosaarirock 06 August US Bangor, ME Rise Above 07 August CA Montreal, QC Heavy Montreal 20 August US Minneapolis, MN U.S. Bank Stadium^

* With guests Black Stone Cherry and Monster Truck † With guests Black Stone Cherry, Red Sun Rising and Monster Truck ^ With Metallica and Avenged Sevenfold

Monday, 9 May 2016

BLUES PILLS reveal 'Lady In Gold' cover artwork & 5th August release date



Multi-national newcomer sensation BLUES PILLS have revealed the cover artwork for their eagerly awaited second album. 'Lady In Gold' will be released on August 5, 2016 and will contain 10 brand new tracks (see full tracklisting below).

Bassist, founding member and main songwriter Zach Anderson comments: "The design comes from the dutch artist Marijke Koger-Dunham who already worked with us for the first album cover. We are super proud to have the opportunity to work again with such a legendary artist who has even worked with THE BEATLES, CREAM and many more. The original design was made by her 50 years ago. We worked together to adapt the colors to fit the mood of the album. Hopefully our fans will like it as much as we do."

Commented singer Elin Larsson on the choice of the album's title: "Lady gold is a character who symbolizes death. We wanted a twist on the typical stereotype of death being the grim reaper. So instead we made her a lady in gold."

Lady In Gold tracklisting:

01. Lady In Gold 02. Little Boy Preacher 03. Burned Out 04. I Felt A Change 05. Gone So Long 06. Bad Talkers 07. You Gotta Try 08. Won't Go Back 09. Rejection 10. Elements And Things

Just like it's highly successful predecessor 'Lady In Gold' was once again produced by Don Alsterberg (GRAVEYARD, DIVISION OF LAURA LEE, JOSÉ GONZÁLEZ, JERRY WILLIAMS).

Blues Pills have just announced a UK Tour for later this year. Tickets on sale now, available from the links below:

1st November – Wolverhampton – Slade Rooms 2nd November – Classic Grand – Glasgow 4th November – Voodoo Lounge – Dublin 5th November – Club Academy – Manchester 6th November – London – Koko 8th November – Bristol – Marble Factory

Welsh fans need not dismay as Blues Pills will be playing Steelhouse Festival in Gwent on 23rd July.

Brighton rockers CITY OF ASHES reveal new video for single 'Vipers Nest'



Brighton rockers CITY OF ASHES are pleased to reveal the details of their new single 'Vipers Nest', taken from the bands brand new album ‘Rise’. Some bands like to write music about their life experiences but CITY OF ASHES like to capture their fans imagination and run.

Check out the lyric video for 'Vipers Nest' here:



"Vipers Nest is something a little different for us. It's far more aggressive than I've been as a writer in the past and far less forgiving thematically and stylistically." explains front man Orion Powell, "It's a song about not tolerating what you see as unjust. We felt it was the right time to show people that side of our sound."

The new album saw the band sell out their album release show in London, after hitting the road with Scottish quintet Yashin last month. Their last single 'Battles Of My Youth' received continued support from Kerrang Radio's Alex Baker, with the video accumulating over 20,000 views in just a few weeks.

Live dates:

May

14th - Upload Festival, Warehouse 23, Wakefield

June

15th - Southampton Joiners 16th - London Black Heart 17th - Swansea Scene Club 18th - TBC 19th - Norwich B2 20th - Guildford Boileroom

CITY OF ASHES' new album 'Rise' is out now.

CANADIAN HARD ROCKERS DOUBLE EXPERIENCE UNVEIL NEW VIDEO & DETAILS OF UK / IRELAND TOUR



Following the success of their recent single / video for “So Fine”, Canadian hard-rock three piece, DOUBLE EXPERIENCE have finally released the highly anticipated follow up video " THE GLIMMER SHOT", which you can view here:



With the success of the bands previous UK and Ireland tour back in 2014, Double Experience will be returning to our shores for another display of unbridled high-energy, hard rock, with an extensive list of dates across Ireland and the UK in May (see dates below). The bands latest album, “Unsaved Progress”, sees them indulge in what can be described as a “Fall Out Boy meets Danko Jones” formula, with a heavy dose of Queens of the Stone Age thrown in for good measure!

Having recorded the album with the help of Al Jacob and Kit Walters (letlive) and mastered by Jamie King (Between The Buried And ME, Devin Townsend) and produced by Jayson DeZuzio (COHEED AND CAMBRIA) in North Carolina, the first single from the album “So Fine” was released last month to critical acclaim. Watch it here:



As announced earlier this month, Double Experience will be taking to the stage in Dublin's Sin É venue on Friday May 13th, for a very special free event alongside Lionize - who will be taking time off from their UK tour with Less Than Jake, they will also be joined by Megacone as support. This will be a "first come, first served" event, so arrive early to avoid disappointment. Details on this show can be found HERE.

CATCH DOUBLE EXPERIENCE ON TOUR THIS MAY!

May 03 Lady Luck, Canterbury May 04 The Victoria, Swindon May 05 Dog & Whistle, HETFORD May 06 Club 85, Hitchin May 07 The Scene, Swansea May 08 YARP Festival, FOLKESTONE May 10 Talking Heads, Southampton May 11 The Arches, Coventry May 12 Rewind (FOCUS Wales), Wrexham May 13 Sin E, Dublin (Ireland) May 14 The Pavilion, Belfast, (Ireland) May 16 The Skerries, Bangor May 17 Zombie Shack, Manchester May 18 O'Rileys, Hull May 19 Actress & Bishop, Birmingham May 20 PI BAR, Leicester May 21 The Scene, Swansea May 22 Crofters, Bristol May 25 Krazyhouse, Liverpool May 26 Flat 0/1, Glasgow May 27 Derby Hotel, Barrow infurness May 28 Kiko Rocks, Bolton May 29 SCORPFEST, NOTTINGHAM

Thursday, 5 May 2016

US Singer Songwriter Frankie Ballard returns to the UK



Warner Bros Records/Warner Music Nashville’s Frankie Ballard returns to UK this autumn for another highly anticipated tour. His recent sold out tour and upcoming shows are another sign of the rockin’ Michigan native’s growing popularity as he prepares to release his new album, El Rio, later this year in the UK.

"Our first trip was such a great time, we decided to come back for more,” says Ballard. “I'm anxious to see how the new album reacts overseas...it'll have its sea-legs by October!"

Ballard’s first foray overseas included sold-out shows at London’s Hoxton Bar and Brooklyn Bowl. The new tour is much more ambitious with 10 dates, beginning Oct. 3 in Amsterdam. He then travels to Hamburg and Munich, Germany, before hitting Manchester, Glasgow, Leeds, Birmingham, Brighton, London and Dublin. Each has a rich pageantry of rock ‘n’ roll history, something Ballard taps into when he write and records his music.

UK TOUR - OCTOBER

7th – Manchester, Academy 3 8th - Glasgow, Oran Mor 9th - Leeds, Brudenell Social Club 11th - Birmingham, O2 Academy 2 12th - Brighton, Concorde 2 13th - London, Bush Hall

U.S. fans can catch Ballard on the road all summer.

ANTI-FLAG ANNOUNCE UK HEADLINE SHOW



ANTI-FLAG ANNOUNCE HEADLINE UK SHOW IN PORTSMOUTH FOLLOWING APPEARANCE AT DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL ON JUNE 11th

Anti-Flag, Pittsburgh's incendiary punk rock iconoclasts, have added a one-off UK headliner at the Wedgewood Rooms in Portsmouth in the wake of their appearance at this year’s prestigious Download event, where they play on Saturday, June 11th.

Details of the headline show are as follows:-

Sunday, June 12th – Portsmouth, Wedgewood Rooms

The band, whose latest studio album ‘American Spring’ was released via Spinefarm in May 2015, recently issued a limited edition clear vinyl LP in support of Record Store Day 2016; titled ‘Live Acoustic At 11th Street Records’, this is a nine-track outing featuring songs such as ‘Fabled World’ & ‘Brandenburg Gate’.

3 DOORS DOWN ANNOUNCE PLANS TO TOUR EUROPE IN OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016



3 Doors Down has announced a headlining European tour in support of the band's recently released Us And The Night album out now on Spinefarm Records. The 13 confirmed dates will bring the group in to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, and The United Kingdom. The run kicks off on October 19 at Berlin's Columbiahalle, and wraps at UK's Hammerstein Apollo on November 6. Pop Evil will be direct support on all dates. For the first time in Europe the band will offer a VIP Sound Check Party which includes access to the band’s afternoon rehearsal, M&G, Photo opportunity, exclusive laminate, signed poster and more. Details are available at www.3doorsdown.com

Singer Brad Arnold shares, "Chris and I had a great time setting up the record in the UK, Paris and Germany this past March and have been looking forward to getting back to Europe for some time now. Our European fans have always welcomed us with open arms and been big supporters of our music. We can’t wait to be back rocking and playing songs from our newest album “Us And The Night” for them!"

Grammy Award®-nominated, multiplatinum band 3 Doors Down released their sixth full-length album, Us And The Night on March 11 globally. The lead single "In The Dark" has risen on the charts across the world and is a bona fide smash at rock radio. The group recorded at Rivergate Studios in Nashville, TN with producer Matt Wallace [Maroon 5, Train, Faith No More] over the course of 2015.

The first video from the new album features Breaking Bad's RJ Mitte and was directed by Magnus Jonsson and Martin Landgreve of Gaucho Film:



CONFIRMED UK APPEARANCES INCLUDE:

11/02 Bristol, UK 02 Academy 11/03 Birmingham, UK 02 Academy 11/05 Manchester, UK Academy 11/06 London, UK Hammersmith Apollo

SOUL ASYLUM ANNOUNCES NEW TOUR DATES WITH THE ENGLISH BEAT



Minneapolis rockers Soul Asylum announces new U.S. tour dates with The English Beat in support of its newest album, Change of Fortune, which was released on March 18, 2016.

In addition, the second single from the album, “Doomsday,” will impact at radio on May 23rd. The song was featured as the Song of the Day on Minneapolis’ tastemaker station KCMP The Current. Listen to “Doomsday” here.

Change of Fortune is three years in the making, recorded while the band toured non-stop, had a few line-up changes and some soul searching, but upon listening to Change of Fortune, it’s clear the band’s trademark ragged-but-right sound is still very much intact.

About Change of Fortune, Blurt Magazine writes that the album ““kicks serious f*cking ass,” while Relix adds, “the new album shows a band still at the peak of their prowess, with clear potential for garnering whatever fortunes the future may hold.” And Innocent Words offers, “’Change of Fortune’ is a straightforward rock & roll album led by Pirner’s poetic gift for storytelling and finds the frontman soul-searching along the way…while maintaining that signature Soul Asylum sound which so many fans love.”

The heart and soul of Soul Asylum remains and they continue to produce heartfelt and passionate rock n’ roll. The band consists of David Pirner on guitar and vocals, Michael Bland on drums, Winston Roye on bass and Justin Sharbono on guitar.

Tour dates (more dates to be added shortly):

Sat, May 21, 2016 - Dallas, TX - Wildflower Festival Sat, Jun 4, 2016 - Memphis, TN - Marquette Park Thu, Jun 16, 2016 - Burlington, ON, CAN - Sound Of Music Festival June 18, 2016 - Apple Valley, MN - Weesner Family Amphitheater* June 19, 2016 - Kansas City, MO - Boulevardia* June 22, 2016 - Warrendale, PA - Jergel's Rhythm Grille* Jun 23, 2016 - Baltimore, MD - Sound Stage* Jun 25, 2016 - Boston, MA - The Royale* Jul 1, 2016 - Fairfield, CT - Ridgefield Playhouse* Jul 2, 2016 - Philadelphia, PA - Trocadero* Jul 5, 2016 - Kent, OH - The Kent Stage* Jul 9, 2016 - Chicago, IL - Thalia Hall* Jul 10, 2016 - Rochester, MN - Down By the Riverside Jul 12, 2016 - Vail, CO - Gerald Ford Amphitheater Jul 21, 2016 - Los Angeles, CA - Whisky A Go-Go Jul 28, 2016 - Royalton, MN - Halfway Jam Jul 30, 2016 - Sterling Heights, MI - Dodge Park Bandshell

*Dates with The English Beat

MORTIIS first video of short film trilogy by Reinert Kiil launched / UK Tour starting at the end of May



Mortiis has launched a new video for the track ‘Geisteskrank’ (Vardøger). The video is the first of three short films by noted Norwegian shock filmmaker Reinert Kiil for which Mortiis contributed the soundtrack. It officially debuted on Metal Hammer's website.

The song ‘Geisteskrank’ is accompanied by Kiil's mind-blowing visuals accompany and was recorded during the same sessions that yielded Mortiis' latest work, ‘The Great Deceiver’ album which is out now via Omnipresence.

Kiil who has made a name as Norway's only Grindhouse filmmaker, decided to collaborate with Mortiis as both parties were intrigued by the idea of delving into the other's art form, but both were waiting to find that kindred soul to capture a shared essence which they found in each other.

"The video unpleasantness continues - a while back Norwegian horror director Reinert Kiil started his short film trilogy based on his own ugly descent into depravity and violence. Never ones to turn our backs to a good cause, we leaped at the opportunity to provide the soundtrack to what is essentially a good old bashing. ‘Vardøger’ is the first part. I've seen the next one, and it just keeps getting worse” says Mortiis.

He continues: ”The music is sonically fused with a glimpse of his soul - or crazed mind or whatever it might be - and it is complete, a sordid success. The result is sleazy, strange, disturbing, and extremely violent."

The band will return to the UK later this month for a 7 date strong headline run to debut songs from their latest release ’The Great Deceiver’ - dates below.

MORTIIS 'demons are back' UK TOUR

May 23rd NEWCASTLE Cluny May 24th GLASGOW Audio May 25th MANCHESTER Ruby May 26th BIRMINGHAM O2 Institute May 27th BRIGHTON Haunt May 28th LONDON Garage May 29th BRISTOL Fleece

Tuesday, 3 May 2016

SISTER SIN Frontwoman LIV JAGRELL Launches Solo Career with LIV SIN



From the gutters of south Sweden, Liv “Sin” Jagrell emerged as a major force as the vocalist for hard rockers Sister Sin. Throughout their 13 year career, Sister Sin sold thousands of albums and toured the world with high profile tours supporting the likes of Slayer and King Diamond on the Rockstar Mayhem festival tour, as well as being a part of the Revolver Magazine ”Hottest Chicks in Metal” tour. Sister Sin toured relentlessly for over a decade across Europe and North America garnering an intensely loyal following of rockers that craved the band’s aggressive and melodic brand of hard rock.

When Sister Sin called it quits at the end of 2015, Liv knew that she had much more to give to her fans. From this, LIV SIN was born. Liv is currently working on a new music that shows the power, sexiness, and attitude that she is known for. Liv says ”for me it has never been an option to stop singing. I live for the stage and for my fans. I still miss Sister Sin, but I am very excited to work on my own project, and I can promise it will not be some soft pop rock. This is going to be metal deluxe, because that’s who I am!" LIV SIN offers a modernized hard rock sound to take Liv into her next phase, a sound that is destined to please both new fans and her longtime fans of Sister Sin.

Sunday, 1 May 2016

Video: Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth of Overkill interviewed at The Academy Dublin. 10 April 2016

Video: Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth of Overkill interviewed at The Academy Dublin. 10 April 2016

DAN SUGARMAN RELEASES FIRST NEW TRACK VIA PATREON



Former As Blood Runs Black guitarist collaborates with Alex Hofman (vocals, Fallujah) on "The Unattainable"



Earlier this year, Dan Sugarman (alum, As Blood Runs Black) independently released his progressive metal debut, Centersun.

Last month, Sugarman launched the next phase of his solo career: Inside Out, an entirely fan-funded release to be distributed one song at a time, exclusively through Patreon.

Every month, fans can donate to the project and receive specific perks. You can read all about Sugarman's Patreon campaign HERE. A portion of all proceeds go towards a charity of the Patrons' choice.

"After stepping away from As Blood Runs Black, and moving forward with my new album, Inside Out, I thought it was time to go back to my roots and pick up where I left off in my previous band, Fallen Figure. In Fallen Figure, I found my voice by utilizing all of the exotic scales and dynamics found in the different sub-genres of death metal. I was able to express my ideas without boundaries.

Choosing Alex Hofmann to do vocals for this was a simple choice, since Fallujah was one of the very first bands I toured with in Fallen Figure, and have always looked up to him as a vocalist, a person, and an artist (he did the song's artwork, as well as most of Fallujah's art)."

Photos: Corrosion of Conformity at Button Factory Dublin. 30 April 2016





Photos by Dani Kammler

Wednesday, 27 April 2016

Music Icon STEVEN TYLER to Headline LaconiaFest on June 15, 2016


Photo Credit: Zack Whitford

LACONIA, NEW HAMPSHIRE - When the producers of LaconiaFest set out to create the most iconic music experience of all time in New Hampshire, they had one name on the list. Steven Tyler. Today, LaconiaFest announced that legendary music icon Steven Tyler is set to perform on the main stage of the motorcycle music festival on June 15, 2016. Tyler will take the stage at LaconiaFest backed by his Nashville-based band, Loving Mary.

A beloved staple in New Hampshire, Tyler has a longtime connection to the area. In addition to spending his childhood summers in Lake Sunapee, it is where he met the members of the Joe Perry Jam Band, which later evolved into Aerosmith.

One of music's most recognizable and dynamic performers, Tyler has been cited by Rolling Stone as "one of the greatest singers of all time." Tyler and Aerosmith have sold more than 150 million records worldwide and he has won four GRAMMY® Awards, six American Music Awards, four Billboard Music Awards and an Emmy® Award. Tyler is currently working on his highly-anticipated solo album that is scheduled to be released this summer on Big Machine Label Group's Dot Records. His critically-acclaimed single, "RED, WHITE, & YOU" is available now.

Tyler also has a love for motorcycles, making him a natural fit for the festival. In September 2007, Tyler launched a line of custom motorcycles, now named Dirico Motorcycles, and is a co-founder and partner of the motorcycle brand.

"We couldn't be more proud of Steven Tyler's homecoming to the state of New Hampshire for LaconiaFest," says Tyler Glover, co-producer of LaconiaFest. "Fans in this area grew up listening to Tyler's iconic voice several times a day on the radio, and they are even more eager to see him perform in person."

Tickets for the June 15th Steven Tyler show will be announced and go on sale soon via www.laconiafest.com.

LaconiaFest Ticket Information:

Tickets for four of the nine LaconiaFest concert dates are on sale now, giving you access to over 50 performing artists - with more to come during the remaining five dates! LaconiaFest VIP Pit and VIP Tower tickets will be available for purchase within the coming weeks, delivering next level festival status including the best views, expedited entry and VIP perks to be announced soon. All General Admission, VIP Tower and VIP Pit tickets include "all-day" in and out access to the LaconiaFest attractions and facilities for that day.

GA ticket prices range from $30 to $70, and VIP PIT and VIP Tickets start at $100. Get your tickets now via www.LaconiaFest.com or www.TicketGalaxy.com and stay tuned for more information on tickets for the remaining five dates, coming soon!

LaconiaFest is sponsored by Ticket Galaxy, Stoli Vodka and Monster Energy.

the GazettE - 'UNDYING'. Release date April 27 via JPU Records



the GazettE, one of Japan’s leading heavy rock bands, will release three track maxi-single 'UNDYING' via JPU Records on 27 April 2016, the same day as they perform in Canada as part of their world tour.

'UNDYING' is the 6th movement of PROJECT:DARK AGE, an artistic venture involving 18 creative professionals spanning Japan’s fashion, design, photography, sound, film and stage industries, with the GazettE’s five members at its centre. 'DOGMA', the GazettE’s latest album, was the first movement, and the current world tour makes up movements 7, 8 and 9.

'UNDYING' is mastered exclusively for iTunes and features crystal clear 24-bit audio. A video preview of all three tracks from the single have been made available from the band’s official YouTube Channel:



Since 2002, the GazettE has risen to become one of Japan’s most successful rock bands. They’ve refined and redefined the boundaries of rock music, achieving continual chart success despite their often heavy, ominous sound.

In the last decade, the GazettE have earned top-ten chart success with all 20 of their major label albums and singles. Their music has taken them all over Japan on massive, sold-out tours and seen them perform at some of the country’s most prestigious venues. Highlights include sold-out “one man lives” (a Japanese term for shows with a single band on the line-up) at the mighty Nippon Budokan, Saitama Super Arena and Japan’s 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome – not to mention packed-out tours across the globe. The band even managed to bring Shinjuku Station – the world’s busiest transport hub – to a halt when a guerrilla gig got out of hand and tens of thousands of fans arrived within minutes of the news breaking on social media.

the GazettE emerged from the depths of “visual kei”, a Japanese cultural music and fashion phenomenon. Originally part of its underground scene, preforming at tiny venues and self-releasing CDs, they now fill stadiums and have become known as one of the most significant names of the genre, effortlessly rewriting its rulebook with every release.

UNDYING Tracklist

01. UNDYING 02. MALUM 03. VACANT

See the GazettE live

USA / Canada:

>> 25 April – Bomb Factory – Dallas >> 27 April – Danforth Music Hall – Toronto >> 29 April – Playstation Theatre – New York >> 1 May – Regency Ballroom – San Francisco >> 3 May – Wilterm Theatre – Los Angeles >> 5 May – Vogue Theatre – Vancouver

Europe:

>> 3 June – Le Zenith – Paris >> 5 June – E-Werk – Cologne >> 8 June – Tonhalle – Munich >> 10 June – The Circus – Helsinki >> 12 June – Izvestia Hall – Moscow

AMARANTHE TO APPEAR AT INAUGURAL ROCK ON GREEN FEST



Amaranthe, the Gothenburg sextet known for fusing melodic metal with contemporary production and cool EDM elements, have been added to the bill of the inaugural ‘Rock On Green’ festival at the O2 Forum, Kentish Town, North London.

Amaranthe will appear directly below headliner Tarja Turunen (Finnish soprano and original Nightwish front-woman) on a bill that features new & established names from the worlds of symphonic, power and gothic metal.

At the moment, Amaranthe are hard at work on their fourth studio album – the follow-up to ‘Massive Addictive’(2014). This latest outing is set for release in the autumn of 2016, and as with all of the band’s work, it will be issued via Spinefarm Records worldwide.

Blink 182's 5x Platinum Album 'Enema of the State’ National Vinyl Retail-Release



On June 17, Blink 182's 5 x Platinum selling album 'Enema Of The State’ will see it's first national retail-wide release on the vinyl format via srcvinyl. The album will be widely available throughout Canada and the USA via Amazon, srcvinyl.com, FYE, Urban Outfitters and indie retail shops. The album will be available on a limited edition translucent blue vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket accompanied by an 11x11 insert.

The following titles are also available for purchase exclusively through the srcvinyl website: Blink 182, Dude Ranch and The Mark, Tom and Travis Show.

Blink 182 – Enema of the State LP

Release Date: June 17, 2016

Pressing Details: Vinyl Color: Translucent Blue (Limited)

Mastered for vinyl and lacquers created by Kevin Gray, Cohearent Audio. Pressed at RTI. Gatefold Jacket and 11x11 insert

Track Listing:

1. Dumpweed 2. Don't Leave Me 3. Aliens Exist 4. Going Away To College 5. What's My Age Again? 6. Dysentery Gary 7. Adam's Song 8. All The Small Things 9. The Party Song 10. Mutt 11. Wendy Clear 12. Anthema

About srcvinyl:

srcvinyl is a fast-growing online and brick & mortar retailer specializing in vinyl. Additionally, srcvinyl exclusively press major label titles on high quality, limited edition vinyl. The srcvinyl repertoire includes top selling albums from artists such as Blink-182, Jimmy Eat World, Silverchair, Quicksand as well as various soundtracks such as Forrest Gump, Clerks, Sopranos and More.

NINA Announces BEYOND MEMORY EP - Set for Release May 27th on Aztec Records


Photo credit: Larsen Sotelo

Currently in the studio with acclaimed producer Richard X (Goldfrapp, Erasure, New Order, Lana del Rey, Kylie Minogue), synthwave singer/songwriter NINA is ready to give listeners a taste of that collaboration with the release of BEYOND MEMORY EP on May 27, 2016 via Aztec Records.

Drawing influences from the likes of Com Truise, Kavinsky and Lana Del Rey amongst others, "Beyond Memory" once again mesmerizes the listener with her rich, silky vocals and New Wave-influenced cinematic analogue synthwork which Pitchfork once perfectly described as "radiant vocals, cast in a shadowy, distant vibe with bright, oscillating synth work that isn't a million miles away from Chvrches ' own Depeche Mode-isms."

“I'm very excited to have Richard X producing and curating my new release,” says NINA about her collaboration with the renowned producer. “He is very selective, so I'm humbled to have him on board. He totally gets my vision and my sound. These songs are very close to me, as it was a long creative process to get them how I wanted them, and I opened up to write very personal lyrics.”

On a rapid trajectory up, NINA has garnered previous support and plaudits from the likes of Pitchfork, Huffington Post, MTV, Hillydilly, and Earmilk. In 2015, she toured the East Coast with Erasure, garnering even more praise from Miami New Times, WeLoveDC, The Vinyl District, among others.

Hailing from Berlin’s bohemian district Neukölln, NINA began singing at the age of six and moved on to classical training during her teens. Her debut release, We Are The Wild Ones (2013), garnered great media attention. The track was used in SyFy’s supernatural hit TV series Being Human (Season 4), which exposed her music to millions of viewers. The official video for “We Are the Wild Ones” highlighted and premiered by Huffington Post who called the video "hauntingly stylish and sleek like the NINA's chanteuse-esque vocals." NINA’s second single "My Mistake" (2014), was included in HUGO BOSS’ 20 Years Co mpilation available at all HUGO BOSS stores worldwide. In addition, Mercedes Benz featured that same song on their European TV and radio ads, which were also broadcast in stadiums around Europe.

As she works diligently to complete her debut album with Richard X, 2016 is already set to push her even farther into the spotlight and deeper into international territory. Preselected for the 2016 MIDEM Artist Accelerator program, NINA will be performing at Canadian Music Week in May and before she heads off on another tour supporting German act DE/VISION in October. U.S. dates are currently in the works.

NINA’s BEYOND MEMORY EP will be released on May 27, 2016 via Aztec Records.

Tuesday, 26 April 2016

The Mission announce 3 more UK shows for 2016 30th Anniversary Tour



2016 sees The Mission celebrating 30 years since they first set foot on the stage at the intimate Alice In Wonderland club in London on January 20th 1986.

To celebrate The Mission set out on their most extensive and ambitious tour since they reformed in 2011, to coincide they will release a brand new studio album. Due to popular demand The Mission have added three further shows to the tour in November - 3rd Leeds O2 Academy, 4th London O2 Forum Kentish Town and 6th Birmingham O2 Institute.

The 30th anniversary tour starts in Dublin on October 1st and includes the Whitby Goth Weekend on November 5th.

Wayne Hussey exclaimed ’30 bloody years! Who would’ve thought it, eh? As we were well renowned for our, ahem, lifestyle choices, shall we say, I remember Melody Maker ran an office pool betting which member of The Mission would die first. I seem to remember Mick was the favourite with yours truly running a close 2nd. Well, we’re still here, alive and well and still going strong. It seems to me that anyone who survives past the age of 50 in this business these days is given honorary legendary status. It’s cheaply given, in my opinion, but we’ll take it.

I seriously never thought I’d see this day but 30 years is a remarkable achievement. Not one we could have achieved without the support and patronage of our brilliant audience. This celebration is for them as much as it is for our retirement funds.”

With the original members Wayne Hussey, Craig Adams and Simon Hinkler being joined by new drummer Mike Kelly in 2011 and armed by one of the most rabid fan bases in the world The Mission have continued to excite the legions with a slew of successful shows and tours. The Mission has sold in excess of 4 million of their previous 13 studio albums and attendant singles, compilations and live albums. They have garnered headlines in the worlds music press and not always for the quality and strength of their music.

However, with a new studio album planned and this extensive tour The Mission enter their 4th decade in the rudest of health.

The Mission UK and Ireland Tour dates

October

Sat 1st Dublin O2 Academy Sun 2nd Belfast Limelight Mon 3rd Glasgow O2 ABC Wed 5th Manchester O2 Ritz Thu 6th Nottingham Rock City Fri 7th Bristol O2 Academy Sat 8th London O2 Shepherds Bush Empire

November

Thu 3rd Leeds O2 Academy new show Fri 4th London O2 Forum Kentish Town new show Sat 5th Whitby Goth Weekend Sun 6 Birmingham O2 Institute new show

Tickets are now available from www.ticketweb.co.uk

There are VIP experience packages for all UK and European shows available from the-mission.tmstor.es

The limited bundle package includes:

- Exclusive Tour T-Shirt - Laminate & Lanyard - A3 Signed Poster - Attend Sound Check - Front Of Queue Access With Laminate

STEVE 'N' SEAGULLS RETURN TO THE UK NOVEMBER 2016



The greatest stories ever told have a tendency to start in a stable, and so it is with Steve ‘n’ Seagulls, the ‘Barnyard Boogiemen’ from rural Finland…

Not only are the five musicians a genuine YouTube sensation, notching up tens of millions of views, they have also taken their ‘badass bluegrass’ all over the world, showing that skilful re-workings of some of metal’s finest moments (all given the band’s signature red-neck stamp) can work extremely well both live and on record.

The latest / second ’S 'n’ S’ album (title tbc) is set to be released later this year via Spinefarm Records; the follow-up to 2015’s ‘Farm Machine’, also issued on Spinefarm, it will see these sons of the soil delving into the world of original material for the first time, although the majority of the tracks will continue to be covers of rock & metal classics.

The headline tour in support of the second album runs as follows:

14-Nov Brighton, Haunt 15-Nov London, Bush Hall 16-Nov Cardiff, Globe 17-Nov Glasgow, Cathouse 18-Nov Manchester, Deaf Institute

Never Mind The Bullocks. Let the bluegrass metal mayhem continue!

DEAD! - 'YOU’RE SO CHEAP'



'YOU’RE SO CHEAP' - First Radio 1 play on Daniel P Carter’s show on Sunday night!



LIVE DATES

London, Alley Cat - 28/4 Great Escape - 19/5 - 21/5 Download - 10/6 - 12/6 Reading & Leeds - 26/8 - 26/8

DEAD! are a London based four piece that will be hurtling your way this year, if you haven’t already encountered them…you will! The band's new single 'You’re So Cheap' received its debut play on Dan P Carter’s Radio 1 show last night, they celebrate the release with a one off London show at Alley Cat in Soho this Thursday, April 28th.

The single is a dirty riff filled rock punk ode to the anxiety and discomfort of certain social situations. DEAD! possess the youthful charm and enthusiasm of every cool band you ever loved. They are the band to check out on the festival circuit this summer, see below dates.

DEAD! LIVE UK FESTIVALS

The Great Escape – May 19th The Hub & 21st Concorde 2 Slam Dunk - May 28th, 29th 30th – Leeds, Birmingham, London Download – June 11th 2000 Trees - July 9th Basingstoke Live - July 10th Y Not - July 30th Reading & Leeds – August 26th - 28th Gloucester Underground - Sep 25th

Monday, 25 April 2016

ENTERTAINMENT ONE AND SECRET LOCATION TEAM UP TO CREATE NEW MUSIC PLATFORM “FLOODLIGHT”



WITH ROCK HITMAKERS POP EVIL OFFERING EXCLUSIVE 3D VIRTUAL REALITY VIDEO WITH PURCHASED BUNDLE TO FANS

New York, NY – April 25, 2016 – In its commitment to reaching next-gen music fans, Entertainment One (eOne) has partnered with Secret Location to create FLOODLIGHT, a platform designed to enhance and extend the music fan experience across multiple platforms.

FLOODLIGHT will bring audiences closer to their favorite eOne music artists with exclusive content and unique one-time experiences, delivered directly by the artists.

eOne also confirmed the first offering on the FLOODLIGHT platform will be an exclusive 3D virtual reality video for the song “Take it All” by rock hit makers Pop Evil. Pop Evil has sold 1.3 million singles to date, and its current album “Up” has debuted at #1 on the Billboard Independent Chart, with 14 million streams to date.

Chris Taylor, President of eOne Music Global, comments, “We’re thrilled to partner with Secret Location to make the music fan experience more immersive. It’s exciting to kick Floodlight off with Pop Evil and we are looking forward to working with our talented artists to deliver the music experience to fans in new and innovative ways.”

James Milward, Founder & Executive Producer of Secret Location, adds, “More and more the institutional walls are breaking down, creating a direct connection between artist and fan, whether it’s through social media, live shows, product collaborations or content. Floodlight provides a simple and scalable way to connect these communities, enabling extraordinary value for fans, and monetizing that connection for artists.”

FLOODLIGHT will be available publicly via www.popevil.floodlight.media.

The video for Pop Evil’s “Take It All” was shot at the 2015 Aftershock Festival, using two 360 / 3D camera rigs that captured every angle of the event in 3D. The footage was edited and stitched together to create an immersive virtual reality music video. When fans put on a headset they find themselves on the stage, above the crowed and inside the music. Pop Evil VR is designed to immerse fans in the energy of the band and provide the ultimate concert experience.

Leigh Kakaty, lead singer of Pop Evil, says, “There's nothing more exciting than being able to bring Virtual Reality to our fans. It was an honor to team up with Secret Location and film our set at Aftershock 2015 in Sacramento, California. To be one of the first to make an actual live performance Virtual Reality Music Video is an incredible thing to be a part of. I can’t wait for our fans to experience this, and we hope to make new fans with this new technology.”

Beginning today, fans will be able to preorder an exclusive bundle for $29.99. The bundle will include a Pop Evil branded Google Cardboard 3D viewer, a Pop Evil 360 APP, an autographed CD and a Pop Evil t-shirt, previously unavailable for online purchase. The video can then be viewed on the APP with the viewer beginning on May 27, 2016. The VR app will also be available for independent download from the App Store and Google Play.