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Gothic Metal Band VICTORIA K Releases Enchanting Cover of Madonna’s ‘Frozen’

Melbourne Gothic Metal powerhouse Victoria K have recorded their own heavy rendition of Madonna‘s iconic 1998 ballad ‘Frozen‘. Victoria K brings their dark and tenebrous stylings to the classic with heavy riffs and the judicious incorporation of harsh vocals, while at the same time paying tribute to the soulful and introspective nature of the song with more dulcet moments led by frontwoman Victoria Knight‘s hypnotic voice.

Reflecting on the journey of recording the song, Knight reveals:

‘Frozen’ is one of my favourite Madonna tracks, I’m so excited to be breathing new life into the song.

We’re hoping that with this cover, we can bring a new and fresh sound to Victoria K.

Fans can indeed look forward to a bigger Victoria K sound than ever, as ‘Frozen‘ is mixed and mastered by the deft hand of Lance Prenc, whose work includes some of Australia’s biggest heavy acts such as Alpha Wolf, Thornhill and Void of Vision.

‘Frozen’ is available on all digitial platforms at: https://victoriak.lnk.to/frozen

Victoria K exploded into the minds and ears of Australian audiences with their 2019 hometown support of Swedish Folk Metal legends, Eluveitie. The band then took the Gothic Metal world by storm with the release of their debut album, Essentia. Although the now-infamous 2020 pandemic struck on the eve of their first headline show as the world entered lockdown, Victoria K was undeterred by this setback. While touring was off the cards, the band embraced the opportunity to deliver a live-streamed show direct from the studio where Essentia was recorded, providing a beacon of Gothic celebration in the darkest of times. The show is now available as the Essentia – Live Isolation Concert DVD.

Since the world’s emergence from the pandemic, Victoria K has hit the road in earnest, touring Australia in support of Essentia and their 2022 follow-up, Kore. Kore exponentially expands the beguiling soundscape of Essentia as Knight sonically explores the mythology of her Greek heritage. In addition to Knight’s majestic lead vocals, Victoria K‘s current touring line-up includes Charlie Curnow tearing up the stage on harsh vocals, Adyn Young leading the melodic charge on guitar, Ethan Colussi holding down the bottom end on bass, and the indomitable percussive machine of James Davies on drums.

Victoria K online:
Website
Facebook
X/Twitter
Instagram
YouTube

Source: Rockshots.eu

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News Press Release

Crystal Viper Release New Digital Single/Video for ‘Fever of the Gods’

Polish Heavy Metal act CRYSTAL VIPER have released a new digital single/video for ‘Fever of the Gods‘ as a taste of their upcoming studio album “The Silver Key“, which is due for release on June 28, 2024 on Listenable Records.

Band leader Marta Gabriel comments:

Not counting the intro (which is entitled “Return to Providence”), “Fever of the Gods” is the opening song of the album, and the first single. We all agreed, that if we would need to show the world what the new album is all about with just 1 song, it needs to be this one. It is fast, very dynamic, and it has some new elements, but also very classic riffing and harmonies, and its chorus is very easy to remember.

We also filmed a video for this song, together with the Grupa 13 production house. They did some amazing videos for bands such as KREATOR, ARCH ENEMY or BEHEMOTH, so we knew our song will be in right hands. Lyrics for “Fever Of The Gods” are a story about meeting various shapeless forms during a dream-quest of Kadath. Lovecraft fans will probably have a big smile on their faces right now!

Watch the Official Video for “Fever of the Gods” BELOW:

Pre-order the upcoming album “The Silver KeyHERE

Tracklist:
01. Return To Providence (1:43)
02. Fever Of The Gods (4:09)
03. Old House In The Mist (4:21)
04. The Key Is Lost (4:07)
05. Heading Kadath (4:03)
06. Book Of The Dead (4:03)
07. The Silver Key (5:01)
08. Wayfaring Dreamer (3:58)
09. Escape From Yaddith (5:04)
10. Cosmic Forces Overtake (4:46)
11. Gods Of Thunder Of Wind And Of Rain (5:22) – CD bonus track
11. Scream! (2:33) – LP bonus track

The album will be promoted on European headlining tour, on which CRYSTAL VIPER will be joined by the US heavy metal act SAVAGE MASTER.

CRYSTAL VIPER is:
Marta Gabriel – vocals, bass guitar, guitar, piano
Lukasz ″Andy Wave″ Halczuch – lead and rhythm guitars
Kuba Galwas – drums and percussion
Eric Juris – lead and rhythm guitars 

CRYSTAL VIPER online:
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News Press Release

XANDRIA Releases New Single + Official Video For “Universal”

Following the success of their top 10 German charts album, The Wonders Still Awaiting, renowned symphonic metal band XANDRIA have unveiled a catchy brand-new single, entitled “Universal“, accompanied by a mesmerising official video. The track, mixed by acclaimed Danish producer Jacob Hansen, harmoniously combines symphonic choruses and captivating refrains with classic heavy metal guitar work.

Xandria comment about “Universal”:

“We have been overwhelmed by the amazing feedback for our album The Wonders Still Awaiting and are so grateful for our wonderful fans! All this positive energy inspired us to write new music quickly, and here is the first song of the new music waiting for you! We hope you enjoy it! Thank you so much for your support!

In memory of Jina Mahsa Amini and for all the brave people everywhere else in the world who fight for human rights. Human rights are universal.
But they are not respected everywhere, and where they are, they can be taken away again. That means that we all need to be constantly defending them, and we need to be standing together with all people in the world for that. “

Watch the Official Video for “Universal” BELOW:

After a highly accomplished tour alongside symphonic metal peers Delain in 2023, XANDRIA is set to join icon K.K. Downing’s band, KK’s Priest, for two shows in Germany while currently captivating North American audiences alongside dwarven metallers Wind Rose. Their steady dedication will also see them grace the stages of Wacken Open Air and other major European festivals later this year!

XANDRIA live 2024:
North American Warfront:
w/ Wind Rose
16.04.24 CA – Montreal (QC) / Beanfield Theater
17.04.24 CA – Ottawa (ON) / Brass Monkey
18.04.24 CA – Toronto (ON) / Lee’s Palace
19.04.24 US – Columbus (OH) / King Of Clubs
20.04.24 US – Chicago (IL) / Avondale Music Hall
21.04.24 US – St. Paul (MN) / Amsterdam Bar & Hall
23.04.24 US – Denver (CO) / Oriental Theater
24.04.24 US – Salt Lake City (UT) / Metro Music Hall
26.04.24 CA – Calgary (AB) / Dickens
27.04.24 CA – Edmonton (AB) / Starlite Room
29.04.24 CA – Vancouver (BC) / Rickshaw Theater
30.04.24 US – Seattle (WA) / El Corazon
01.05.24 US – Portland (OR) / Hawthorne Theater
02.05.24 US – San Francisco (CA) / DNA Lounge
03.05.24 US – Las Vegas (NV) / House Of Blues
04.05.24 US – Los Angeles (CA) / 1720

Headline Show:
09.05.24 NL – Leiden / Headliner Club Show, Support tba

European Dates:
w/ KK’s Priest
16.05.24 DE – Hamburg / Docks
19.05.24 DE – Munich / Backstage

Festivals:
10.05.24 BE – Bomal-sur-Ourthe / Durbuy Rock Festival
20.06.24 ES – Cartagena / Rock Imperium
02.08.24 DE – Wacken / Wacken Open Air
16.08.24 CZ – Moravský Krumlov / Rock Castle
17.08.24 CH – Vallamand / Rock The Lakes

XANDRIA are:
Ambre Vourvahis – Vocals
Marco Heubaum – Guitar
Robert Klawonn – Guitar
Tim Schwarz – Bass
Dimitrios Gatsios – Drums

Xandria online:
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Source: Napalm Records

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News Press Release

Progressive Death Metal Duo ENTHEOS Announce US Headlining Tour Dates

Progressive death metal duo ENTHEOS have announced several headlining shows surrounding their upcoming US Summer tour supporting As I Lay Dying.

Tickets are on sale now at: entheosofficial.com!
See all confirmed dates below.

ENTHEOS Headlining Dates:
7/05/2024 89th Street – Oklahoma City, OK
7/06/2024 Jakes – Lubbock, TX
7/08/2024 Sinwave – Las Vegas, NV
7/18/2024 Lefty’s – Des Moines, IA w/ He Is Legend
7/19/2024 The Cabooze – St. Paul, MN
7/22/2024 Preserving – Pittsburgh, PA
8/01/2024 Southport – New Orleans, LA

ENTHEOS w/ As I Lay Dying, Chelsea Grin:
7/09/2024 The Catalyst – Santa Cruz, CA
7/10/2024 Ace of Spades – Sacramento, CA
7/12/2024 Roseland Theater – Portland, OR
7/13/2024 Temple Theatre – Tacoma, WA
7/14/2024 Knitting Factory – Boise, ID
7/15/2024 The Complex – Salt Lake City, UT
7/16/2024 Summit – Denver, CO
7/17/2024 The Truman – Kansas City, MO
7/19/2024 Upheaval Festival – Grand Rapids, MI
7/21/2024 House Of Blues – Chicago, IL
7/23/2024 Empire Live – Albany, NY
7/24/2024 Irving Plaza – New York, NY
7/25/2024 Theater of The Living Arts – Philadelphia, PA
7/26/2024 The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD
7/27/2024 The NorVa – Norfolk, VA
7/29/2024 The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC
7/30/2024 The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA
7/31/2024 Jannus Landing – St. Petersburg, FL
8/02/2024 House Of Blues – Houston, TX
8/03/2024 The Factory in Deep Ellum – Dallas, TX
8/04/2024 Vibes Event Center – San Antonio, TX
8/06/2024 El Rey Theater – Albuquerque, NM
8/07/2024 The Van Buren – Phoenix, AZ
8/08/2024 The Belasco – Los Angeles, CA
8/10/2024 The Observatory Northpark – San Diego, CA

ENTHEOS recently released a new single, “An End to Everything“. The track serves as the band’s first new output since last year’s critically adored Time Will Take Us All full-length as well as a precursor to the music to come later this year on Metal Blade Records.

Watch ENTHEOS’ video for ‘An End To Everything’ BELOW:

Incorporating elements drawn from myriad genres – including death metal, groove, grunge, electronica, slam, gothic rock, jazz, prog and more – pushing progressive death metal in ever more imaginative directions. Time Will Take Us All proved that ENTHEOS continues to evolve with every release. Metal Hammer UK lauded a band, “poised to morph from a promising project into tech metal titans”, New Noise Magazine championed, “one of the best versions of modern riff-y progressive death metal we have now”, while Loudwire added, “the band plays with lockstep precision, turning the gears of their technical death metal machine as it steamrolls forward”.

Preview/purchase ENTHEOS “An End To Everything” single as well as Time Will Take Us All at: metalblade.com/entheos

ENTHEOS are:
Chaney Crabb – vocals
Navene Koperweis – drums, guitar

ENTHEOS online:
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Twitter
Bandcamp

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American Metal Force EDGE OF PARADISE Signs Contract With Napalm Records + Drops New Single “Rogue (Aim for the Kill)”

Los Angeles, California-based cinematic metal/rock unit EDGE OF PARADISE – who have made waves in the heavy music scene with acclaimed albums like Universe (2019), The Unknown (2021) and Hologram (2023), as well as tours with the likes of Lacuna Coil, Dragonforce and Amaranthe – are pleased to announce that they have signed a worldwide contract with premier rock and metal empire Napalm Records!

Guitarist Dave Bates says about signing with Napalm Records:

We are thrilled to be joining forces with Napalm Records and look forward to elevating the world of EDGE OF PARADISE to new heights! With the support of our strong production team we’ve built over the years, and the forces of Napalm rallying behind our unified vision, it will allow us to focus on what is important: unleashing a new dimension of EDGE OF PARADISE and delivering the most exhilarating, powerful and futuristic experience possible!

Today, in celebration of the band’s signing, they have released a soaring new single entitled “Rogue (Aim for the Kill)“, accompanied by a brand new music video. The anthemic track swaggers with electric energy and dynamic vocals, transforming into a theatrical metallic burner.

Frontwoman Margarita Monet adds about the new song:

‘ROGUE’ is a supercharged anthem, propelling the band into an exciting new era on all fronts! Fueled by our history and the thought-provoking narratives of our past albums, ‘Rogue’ smashes through every barrier we’ve encountered over the years and reshapes our own limits! This song truly captures our spirit and we hope to spark inspiration in others to never give up on their extraordinary paths! So let’s ‘Aim for the Kill’ together, united by the unwavering strength!

Watch the Official Music Video for “Rogue (Aim for the Kill)” BELOW:

The track and video arrive just days before EDGE OF PARADISE kicks off their upcoming USA tour with headliners Firewind and fellow support act Immortal Guardian, beginning this Thursday, April 11 in Clifton, NJ. See below for all currently confirmed tour dates.

EDGE OF PARADISE w/ Firewind and Immortal Guardian:
04.11 Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz
04.12 Manchester, NH – Angel City Music Hall
04.13 Reading, PA – Reverb
04.14 Pittsburgh, PA – Crafthouse 
04.15 Toronto, ON – Ground Control
04.16 Westland, MI – Token Lounge
04.17 Hobart, IN – Hobart Art Theatre
04.19 Springfield, IL – Danenberger Family Vineyards 
04.20 Peoria, IL – Revival Music Hall
04.21 Joliet, IL – The Forge
04.23 Denver, CO – HQ
04.25 San Diego, CA – Brick by Brick
04.26 Anaheim, CA – Parish – House of Blues
04.27 West Hollywood – Whisky A GoGo
04.28 San Francisco – DNA Lounge
05.01 Austin, TX – Come and Take it Live
05.02 Dallas, TX – Sundown – Granada
05.03 San Antonio, TX – Rolling Oaks Events Center
05.04 Eagle Pass, TX -Cooters
05.06 Houston, TX – Warehouse Live

Boasting a cinematic blend of industrial rock, power metal and electronic elements, EDGE OF PARADISE reached heightened recognition in the rock and metal scene in 2019. With dynamic vocals, infectious choruses, thundering grooves and massive guitars, the epic sound of EDGE OF PARADISE has earned them the title of “music from another world” from fans worldwide.

After a European support tour with Sonata Arctica, the band followed 2019’s Universe with The Unknown in 2021, featuring production by the legendary Howard Benson (Halestorm, Seether) with Mike Plotnikoff, Neil Sanderson (Three Days Grace), and mixing from Jacob Hansen (Amaranthe, Volbeat). After a tour of the UK and Europe with new label mates Temperance, the band released 2023’s lauded Hologram, which launched them into the next echelon of recognition – leading to various North American tours with Lacuna Coil, Dragonforce and Amaranthe, as well as a performance on the famed 70k Tons of Metal cruise.

EDGE OF PARADISE is one of the most engaging bands out there, welcoming and interacting with fans from all over the world! With a multi-dimensional approach – from one-of-a-kind artworks created by frontwoman Margarita Monet, and exclusive items featured in their cutting-edge videos, apparel, vinyl, collectable statues and numerous autographed items – fans everywhere can be a part of EDGE OF PARADISE‘s interactive world.

Most recently, EDGE OF PARADISE released a new graphic novel based on their music! Physical copies of the graphic novel, entitled Hologram and Slaves to Forever are available now via the band’s webstore, paving the way into the next chapter of the band.

Stay tuned for more EDGE OF PARADISE news coming soon!

EDGE OF PARADISE are:
Margarita Monet – Vocals, Keys
Dave Bates – Guitars
Kenny Lockwood – Bass
Jamie Moreno – Drums
David Ruiz – Guitars

EDGE OF PARADISE online:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
X
TikTok

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Dutch Vocalist/Songwriter CHARLOTTE WESSELS (ex-DELAIN) Announces New Album

Charismatic Dutch singer/songwriter CHARLOTTE WESSELS is set to release her new studio album on September 20, 2024 via Napalm Records! The striking first single, “The Exorcism”, will be released on May 16, 2024. Wessels’ album promises a cohesive exploration of fear and liberation, as well as spellbinding melancholia and dark, catchy elements meeting progressive and heavier soundscapes. Wessels and her band will bring this story to the stage on October 4, 2024 at Utrecht’s TivoliVredenburg. Grab your tickets HERE!

The former DELAIN vocalists earlier solo endeavours Tales From Six Feet Under (2021) and Tales from Six Feet Under Vol II (2022) already gained Wessels a remarkable number of devotees, but for the upcoming release, Wessels is raising the bar significantly. While still writing and producing the songs in her Six Feet Under basement home studio and sharing their first incarnations with her patrons, now she’s taking the songs to the next level with a band of her fellow ex-DELAIN cohorts Timo Somers (guitars, additional arrangements), Otto Schimmelpenninck van der Oije (bass) and Joey Marin de Boer (drums) as well as Sophia Vernikov (piano/hammond), contributing to the heavier sound. The album also features arrangements by Vikram Shankar (Silent Skies, Pain of Salvation), cello by Elianne Anemaat, was mixed by Guido Aalbers (Muse, Coldplay, The Gathering) and mastered by Andy VanDette (Porcupine Tree, VOLA, Dream Theater).

CHARLOTTE WESSELS states:

“This album is significant, for on the one hand, telling such a deeply personal journey – through its unintended theme of fear and obsessive thoughts – and at the same time, representing the joy of finding the song’s true forms with everyone involved in the making of this record. There were moments in the studio with the band that truly reminded me of why I love making music in the first place, and I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited about music going out into the world. This is the album I want to re-introduce myself with, and I’m so glad to do it with this amazing team.”

CHARLOTTE WESSELS online:
Website
YouTube
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
Twitter/X

Source: Napalm Records

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News Press Release

Xeneris Start Their Ascent In The Metal Scene With Debut Album ETERNAL RISING

Xeneris, the Italian powerhouse of symphonic power metal, is set to ignite the global metal scene with their highly anticipated debut album, “Eternal Rising” slated for release on June 14th, 2024, and available to pre-order HERE.

Prepare to be hypnotised by their first single and video “Eternal Rising“, a mesmerising tale of resurrection and resilience, narrated through the myth of the phoenix’s rebirth. This song embodies the determination to move forward in life’s challenges, echoing the phoenix’s immortal cycle of death and rebirth.

Watch the official video for “Eternal Rising” BELOW:

Masterminds Frederica Paolini states:

Eternal Rising’ tells a story of resurrection and resilience narrated through the myth of the phoenix’s rebirth: every 500 years, the phoenix dies and rises from its ashes, thus ensuring immortality through this purifying ritual. For us, it’s a concept very representative of our musical journey that is reborn and continues, representing also the will to continue our path with renewed passion.

Formed in December 2022, after the disbandment of Kalidia (one of the hottest Italian power metal bands with over 7 million streams and 5 million YouTube views), Xeneris is the brainchild of Federico Paolini (co-founder, composer and guitarist) and Roberto Donati (co-founder, bassist). Coupled with Mayran jaw-dropping vocals and the rhythmic genius of Stefano Livieri. Xeneris manage to honour the heritage of Kalidia, expanding the musical spectrum fusing power metal, symphonic metal, and progressive metal into an electrifying blend of irresistible melodies, powerful riffs, and grand arrangements.

Federico is thrilled to invite fans:

Get ready to be transported on a mesmerizing odyssey through the annals of myth and legend. From traversing the Mediterranean alongside Ulysses to beholding the Phoenix’s resurrection. Follow Dante’s descent into Hades and surrender to the seductive allure of an Arabian night, where the Sahara’s gentle zephyrs embrace you in their warm embrace.

Xeneris invites metal enthusiasts worldwide to join them on this epic voyage, as they redefine the boundaries of symphonic power metal. Prepare to be captivated by the grandeur of “Eternal Rising” and immerse yourself in a world of myths, real-life and fantasy legends, and introspection from human experiences.

Tracklist:
1. Barbarossa
2. Before The River Of Fire
3. Eternal Rising
4. Pandora’s Box
5. A New Beginning
6. To The Endless Sea
7. Shahrazad
8. Scilla And Cariddi
9. Burning Within
10. The Glorious Fight
11. Equinox

Line-up:
Marianna Iacona (Vocals) 
Federico Paolini (Guitars) 
Roberto Donati (Bass) 
Stefano Livieri (Drums)

Xeneris online:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
TikTok
YouTube

Source: Frontiers Music

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News Press Release

Progressive Metal Band OU Releases New Hypnotic Single and Video for “淨化 Purge” (feat. Devin Townsend)

Prepare for OU’s (pronunciation: “O”) epic sophomore album, 蘇醒 II: Frailty, co-produced, mixed, and featuring Devin Townsend’s magic! Their newest offering “淨化 Purge” urges you to embrace the infinite possibilities, resonating in every corner.

OU comments on the new single:

淨化 Purge is the second track off our second album, 蘇醒 II: Frailty, the song was written as a kind of brutal meditation, for added power we asked Devin if he would be willing to sing his first song in Chinese along with Lynn, thankfully he was down, and the result is quite astonishing.

Surrender to the hypnotic visuals feat. mastermind Devin Townsend.

The mesmerising music video can be watched BELOW:

Devin Townsend comments:

As I age, I find myself growing easily bored with new music, which is disappointing as a music fan. Despite being very busy, mutual circumstances aligned myself and the band ‘OU’. I appreciate this connection, as their music is exceptionally well executed and interesting to me. I am pleased to have been involved with something refreshing like this.

蘇醒II: Frailty Tracklist:
1. 蘇醒 Frailty
2. 淨化 Purge
3. 海 Ocean
4. 血液 Redemption
5. 衍生 Capture and Elongate (Serenity)
6. 破魂 Spirit Broken
7. 歪歪地愛 yyds
8. 輪迴 Reborn
9. 念 Recall

Pre-order 蘇醒 II: Frailty HERE!

The album will be available in the following versions:
Ltd. CD Jewelcase 
Ltd. White-Black Marbled 1LP 180g Vinyl – Strictly limited to only 1000 copies worldwide
Digital Album

Hailing from the vibrant musical scene of Beijing, China, OU emerged onto the global stage with their debut album one in 2022, leaving listeners awestruck and craving more. With an unparalleled fusion of metal, electronica, ambient textures, and captivating melodies, OU defies convention, offering a sonic journey unlike any other, that invites listeners into their world.

Fast forward to 2023, and OU found themselves in esteemed company, collaborating with none other than the visionary Devin Townsend to craft their highly anticipated sophomore effort,  蘇醒 II: Frailty, slated for release on April 26th, 2024. This upcoming album promises to push boundaries even further, introducing prog fans to a realm of sound that challenges the very definition of genre itself. OU invites you to join them on this exhilarating sound odyssey, where familiarity meets innovation, and every note resonates with unprecedented intensity.

OU Lineup:
Lynn Wu – Vocals
Anthony Vanacore – Drums
Jing Zhang – Guitars
Chris Cui – Bass

OU online:
Website
Spotify
Instagram
Facebook

Source: InsideOut Music

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News Press Release

BALANCE OF POWER Unleash Music Video for New Single “One More Time Around The Sun”

Almost 20 long years since the release of their latest studio album “Heathen Machine”, UK heavy metal act BALANCE OF POWER returns with a new band line-up and brand new studio offering! “Fresh From The Abyss” will be released on April 19, 2024 via Massacre Records, the pre-sale is available HERE.

Founding members Tony Ritchie (bass) and Lionel Hicks (drums) are joined by the band’s new lead vocalist Hazel Jade, as well as guitarists Chris Young and Adam Wardle, who have since taken over the reins from previous guitarists Chris Masimore and Stoney Wagner, and with whom the band worked on and recorded the upcoming album “Fresh From the Abyss”.

Following previously-released album tracks such as “Never Be Here Again” and “Abyss”, today, BALANCE OF POWER present their new single “One More Time Around The Sun”! The song is out now on all digital services which can be accessed HERE.

Watch the official video clip for “One More Time Around The Sun” BELOW:

Tony comments:

The song is about wanting to spend another year and then another and another with the person you love. I don’t usually write about specific people, but this song was inspired by my love for my wife Diki and never wanting it to end. Hazel changed the melody of the line “Take me one more time around the sun” which added such a great hook to the chorus. Lionel was responsible for the double time sections which lifted the song onto another level for the solos.

Written before, during and after the pandemic, the band took a more organic approach and tested themselves with new and different ways of writing their songs. Largely about life and death, “Fresh From The Abyss” is a collection of songs that either stops the clock and points to a moment in time or stands back and encompasses the vastness of time and space, and living and dying.

Produced by Toby Jepson and Lionel Hicks, “Fresh from the Abyss” was mixed by Sam Lowe with a remix by Mike Plotnikoff. For the mastering, the band hired Simon Francis, the cover artwork was created by Antz White with a design from Stuart Dilley.

Tracklist:

  1. Last Man Down
  2. Never Be Here Again
  3. Monster
  4. Rage Of Ages
  5. Abyss
  6. Velocity
  7. Deadlands
  8. One More Time Around The Sun

BALANCE OF POWER online:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube

BALANCE OF POWER is:
Hazel Jade – Lead Vocals
Chris Young – Guitars
Adam Wardle – Guitars
Tony Ritchie – Bass, Vocals
Lionel Hicks – Drums

Album Line-Up:

Hazel Jade – Lead Vocals
Chris Masimore – Guitars
Stoney Wagner – Guitars
Tony Ritchie – Bass, Vocals
Julien Spreutels – Keyboards
Lionel Hicks – Drums

Categories
News Press Release

Symphonic Metal Upstarts ELVELLON Announce Second Album “Ascending in Synergy”

Rising symphonic metal force ELVELLON is set to release their second album, Ascending in Synergy, on May 17, 2024! The band has revealed the beautiful first single, “A Vagabond’s Heart”, featuring an exciting intro and one of the catchiest choruses on the album. The fresh ten track offering marks the outfit’s Napalm Records debut, and is the successor to their highly acclaimed 2018 album, Until Dawn, and 2015 EP, Spellbound. The official music video for the track “Born From Hope” from Until Dawn has reached 1.3M views on YouTube, and the EP version of the song has more than 2.5 Spotify streams.

Dubbed as “heroes of tomorrow” by Metal Hammer Germany, ELVELLON has performed at several festival stages both in their home country of Germany and abroad, such as RockHarz Festival, M’era Luna and Rock Fest Barcelona to name a few, and has shared the stage with significant bands in the scene such as VISIONS OF ATLANTIS. Check out the captivating music video for “A Vagabond’s Heart” below for a taste of what’s to come, and pre-order your copy of the upcoming album!

ELVELLON state:

“A Vagabond’s Heart” is based on a very old idea that goes way back to the early days of ELVELLON. We finally got back to the material during the songwriting for Ascending in Synergy because we knew we had a little treasure there.

Early on, even before the lyrics were written, many people around us saw it as a potential first single. Now, with the final lyrics and the song’s theme of ‘finding yourself’ being so important to the whole album and the album title, we’ve wholeheartedly agreed.

Watch the Official Music Video for “A Vagabond’s Heart” BELOW:

Pre-Order Ascending in Synergy NOW

Ascending in Synergy proves that this promising German unit is on top of their game and skilfully manages to balance the tightrope act between diving into the early beginnings of symphonic metal, yet splicing all songs with a contemporary vibe. Opening track “Unbound” impresses with skilful orchestral arrangements and vocalist Nele Messerschmidt’s extraordinary voice. Dramatic, dark soundscapes and heavy riffs on songs like “Ocean Of Treason” and “The Aftermath Of Life” keep the listener in a tight grip. ELVELLON’s dreamlike, cinematic side shines especially bright on tracks like “Last Of Our Kind” and “The Aeon Tree”. Massive album finale “Epiphany Of Mine” closes Ascending in Synergy impactfully, leaving the listener wanting for more.

ELVELLON about Ascending in Synergy:

We are incredibly excited to see how our fans will receive Ascending in Synergy. A lot has happened since our debut album and the songwriting process has changed a lot. It still feels like 100% ELVELLON to us, but the dynamics have expanded. It has become more orchestral and more metal at the same time. Also, lyrically we no longer stick to a single concept, but the songs are held together by a common thread.

Tracklist Ascending in Synergy:
1. Unbound
2. A Vagabond’s Heart
3. My Forever Endeavour
4. Ocean of Treason
5. The Aftermath of Life
6. Last of our Kind
7. Into the Vortex
8. A Legacy Divine
9. The Aeon Tree
10. Epiphany of Mine

ELVELLON are:
Nele Messerschmidt – vocals
Gilbert Gelsdorf – guitars
Maddin Klüners – drums
Pascal Pannen – keyboards
Jan Runkel – bass

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Source: Napalm Records

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SWANSONG Announce Finnish Tour Dates for Latest Album “Awakening”

Melodic death metal band Swansong has announced a series of live shows through Finland for 2024 in support of their latest album “Awakening” (Noble Demon). Following the successful release of their debut full-length record in December 2023, the band is now prepared to embark on a tour, showcasing their electrifying energy and infectious music at various venues.

Vocalist Jemiina comments:

“Feels so amazing to finally get to play our favourite songs from our just released debut album “Awakening”! Our booking agent Ilkka Laaksonen from Kallo Agency is amazing and we can’t wait to see our fans this summer at Nummirock and Tuska festival! We have finally found our sound and we want to blast it around Finland! Pedal to the metal! See you at the gigs!”

Dates as follows:
15.03.2024 Ravintola Torvi, Lahti
30.03.2024 Lahtaamo Festival, Joensuu
20.04.2024 Hellsinki Metal Festival: SEE YOU IN HELL CLUB,  Bar Loose, Helsinki
20.06.2024 NUMMIROCK FESTIVAL, Kauhajoki
30.06.2024 TUSKA Festival, Helsinki

About Swansong:
Combining the beautiful with the brutal since 2020, Swansong have never shied away from breaking boundaries. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Dark Tranquillity, 90s melodeath, death and black metal, as well as Shadow Of Intent’s modern sound, the band’s vocals are a force to be reckoned with. The composition of their debut album “Awakening” is heavily influenced by iconic bands such as Iron Maiden, Children of Bodom, and the neo-classical metal of the 80s. These ingredients, combined with kick-ass riffs, will transport you back to the vibes of the golden era of metal, while the Finnish four-piece adds its very own new twist to these elements with low female death growls and high pitched screams.

Check out the band’s latest album HERE

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NIGHTWISH Re-signs With Nuclear Blast Records

Once, I Had A Dream – And This Is It…

It’s safe to say that this collaboration is one of the most magical and enchanting in modern metal history: 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership between Finland’s symphonic metal legends and NUCLEAR BLAST. Today, the international metal label is proud to announce that NIGHTWISH said “I Do” again and re-newed their contract with a worldwide multi-album deal.

Tuomas Holopainen states:

“20 years ago our journey together with Nuclear Blast started, and the time has now come to renew our vows. Superbly excited to see what kind of magic we can cook up together this time!”

Marcus Hammer states:

“It’s an honor to renew this partnership to continue writing music history. We´re more than proud to carry on the collaboration with this exceptionally gifted group of musicians and their management team. Thanks for your friendship and trust, Floor, Tuomas, Emppu, Troy, Kai and Jukkis. Looking forward to celebrate your upcoming album and everything beyond! Kiitos!”

About NIGHTWISH

Working with NUCLEAR BLAST since the release of their highly lauded 2004 album OnceNIGHTWISH have gained international fame and success selling more than ten million records and receiving more than 60 gold and platinum awards, having released six No #1 albums and thirteen No #1 singles. In October 2018, NIGHTWISH was inducted into the Tähtikatu – Walk of Fame Finland, becoming the honorary gallery’s eleventh member. 2022 saw the release of the band’s last studio record, Human. :II: Nature. that crowned the band’s discography with another No #1 success in Finland and Germany as well several other impressive chart entries worldwide. 

The band recently announced the completion of recordings for their new studio album planned for autumn 2024.

About NUCLEAR BLAST

For 35 years and counting, Nuclear Blast Records has been synonymous with the worldwide advancement of heavy music. Founded in Donzdorf, Germany in 1987, Nuclear Blast is part of Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies. Nuclear Blast boasts a roster of over 150 bands. Their offices in Los Angeles, London, Hamburg, and Paris have helped build the label’s trusted global reputation with numerous album chart entries, high-profile tours, and continual signings of new and heritage acts. The label has additional representatives in Australia, Brazil and Sweden, amongst others.

Line-Up:
Floor Jansen | Vocals
Tuomas Holopainen | Keys
Emppu Vuorinen | Guitars
Jukka Koskinen | Basses
Troy Donockley | Uilleann Pipes, Low Whistles, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Bouzouki, Bodhrán, Aerophone, Vocals
Kai Hahto | Drums & Percussion

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Source: Nightwish