FORMER FLYLEAF FRONTWOMAN LACEY STURM ANNOUNCES SOLO ALBUM DEBUT, LIFE SCREAMS, SET FOR EARLY 2016 RELEASE

Three years after amicably parting ways with the Platinum-selling, Grammy-nominated Flyleaf, Lacey Sturm is independently releasing her highly anticipated solo debut, Life Screams, in early 2016 on FOLLOWSPOT Records with The Fuel Music distribution. The first single from this self-produced set of urgent, anthemic and lyrically-timely rock, “Impossible,” debuts exclusively on SiriusXM’s Octane (channel 37) Sunday, Nov. 1, at 1:00 pm EST, and goes immediately into rotation thereafter. On Nov. 6, the single will be available on iTunes, Spotify and Amazon, and goes to rock radio for adds Nov. 9.

“Impossible” screams the return of the voice and songwriter who delivered rock anthems like “Again,” “All Around Me,” “I’m So Sick” and “Fully Alive” to the top of the retail and radio charts. The debut solo single from Lacey blasts out the optimistic chorus: “Every morning I see another miracle / I can't believe I'm living the impossible / We are the sign and we are the wonder / Another day of living the impossible.”

“I was listening to the radio one day and I said to myself, ‘If I hear one more song telling people to kill themselves and go to hell, I’m going to have to put a record out!’” exclaims Lacey. “I just think it would be a good thing to have a voice in the mix of all the hopelessness that actually gives you a light at the end of the tunnel; a voice that’s still honest about the pain and struggle, but can also scream, ‘Hey, wake up and be alive because there’s hope!’”

Approaching her latest creative phase with new found perspective and appreciation, Lacey adds, “I really started to value my relationships and the people around me. We started as a group of artists in our hometown of Pittsburgh and Life Screams was kind of an accident.”

Out of this new artist community, Lacey’s live band organically formed and features her husband, Josh Sturm (guitars), as well as Tom Gascon (drums) and Ben Hull (bass). Together, they have already performed for crowds in the tens of thousands and are booked for major rock festivals in 2016.

While music fans wait for the tour dates to be announced, Lacey engaged her extensive social community on an Instagram scavenger hunt yesterday for a cover art reveal contest. One piece of the puzzle was featured on Lacey’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/ilovejoshsturm while eight additional square pieces of the new cover were hidden across Instagram’s platform. The first one to find and stitch together the nine images, tagging the cover #LIFESCREAMS, will receive a signed copy of Lacey's audio book, The Reason.
 
For all the latest Lacey Sturm news and tour detail, go to LaceySturm.com.

Product of Hate Releases “The Unholy Manipulator” Video

Product Of Hate have released a new video for "The Unholy Manipulator". Check it out HERE.

Vampires Everywhere! Announces "The Bat 2 Bat Tour"

Vampires Everywhere! fronted by Michael Vampire have announced a new tour calling it "The Bat 2 Bat Tour" with support coming from Consider Me Dead and Set To Stun. Check out the list of dated below.

TOUR DATES:

11/30 Mesa, AZ @ The Nile Underground
12/1 Albuquerque, NM @ The Co-op
12/2 Fort Worth, TX @ Tomcats West
12/3 San Antonio, TX @ The Korova
12/4 Tyler, TX @ Crossroads
12/5 Hattiesburg, MS @ The Tavern
12/6 Knoxville, TN @ Longbranch Saloon
12/7 Indianapolis, IN @ Emerson Theatre
12/8 Richmond, VA @ The Canal Club
12/9 New York, NY @ Santos
12/10 Providence, Ri @ Firehouse 13
12/11 Kent, OH @ The Outpost
12/13 Chicago, IL @ The Abbey
12/14 Minneapolis, MN @ Skyway Theatre
12/15 Des Moines, IA @ Vaudeville Mews
12/16 Denver, CO @ Marquis Theatre
12/18 Salt Lake City, UT @ The Music Garage

Rex Shachath's Andrew Talks Band's Waiting Period Until their Return

 Death metallers Rex Shachath formed in late 2011, then a few years later at the end of 2014 a matter of fact, they decided to lay low for the time being. Sometime later they came together again to create all new music and picked up where they left off. Guitarist Andrew discusses the band as a whole and the plans they have, including their new music with everything else in between.


1. What type of band are you?

Andrew: If you are referring to the style of music we play, I would call Rex Shachath a death metal band… I guess the best way to describe our sound is old school with a modern flair.

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

Andrew: The band formed in 2012… After a couple of months together we recorded our debut, an EP entitled ‘Sepulchral Torment’ which was received very well. We released that in September 2012 and hit the road immediately upon its release. We spent nearly three weeks touring the UK and since then we’ve been back and forth, all across UK, and into parts of mainland Europe. We had planned to record two EP’s in quick succession, and in fact we did, but things got held back on the  business side of things, hence why our new record ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’ is only seeing the light of day this year. We’ve been sitting on that EP for over a year!!!

3. How did the name Rex Shachath come into the picture? Does it have a meaning behind it?

Andrew: When we formed, we didn’t have a name in mind and it would be at least a couple of months before we eventually decided. We just started jamming together and writing music. We all thought about names for a few months, and each time we got together we all pitched ideas… As we were writing and defining our sound we all knew when the right name was said we would all know it. So there was no real rush… at least unless until we had started recording. If I remember correctly it was our vocalist Dave who suggested the name. The words are taken from two languages, Latin and Hebrew, Rex meaning King and Shachath meaning destroyer… corruption… So essentially what the name means is king destroyer or king of corruption.

4. Why did you guys decide to lay low come the end of 2014?

Andrew: As I mentioned earlier, it wasn’t the plan, we did want to record and release two EP’s in quick succession. We actually recorded the new EP ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’ around November 2013. It’s just taken us most of 2014 to get the label side of things sorted and organised its release. We finally have a release date of November 20th so expect more hustle and bustle in the Rex Shachath camp from now.

5. What were you guys doing during that time period?

Andrew: Waiting for the most part… We were in discussion with various labels for a while to begin with. Eventually we signed a contract with a French label, Great Dane Records. They had to do their thing and schedule the release… and that takes some time. After the label negotiations we worked on a few things, for example, getting merch designs together, we shot a music video for the title track which is out now, and we also put together some behind the scenes footage of the recording of the EP (which should be out soon).

6. You made the announcement of your return with this EP ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’. What's your take on it as a whole?

Andrew: I’m really happy with this one, we all are. I think with our first release, ‘Sepulchral Torment’, the music was a little more old school. We didn’t spend too much on the production side of things with that one, which is totally fine because the production we got really suits that record. But with ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’, the music has a lot more modernity, it’s a lot more cohesive and together for lack of a better word. We have some massive riffs on it and so it was important for us to capture that sound as best as possible, so we put a lot more into the production. We headed out to Wales to record it and Joe our producer did a fantastic job. In terms of the writing, it’s a lot more mature and the song writing is smarter. We recorded ‘Sepulchral Torment’ very quickly after forming, only a few months. Since then, as a band, we’ve spent a lot of time together, in the practise room, on the road, on stage… we’ve gelled and I think that that chemistry comes through on this record, it’s a lot tighter. We spent a little more time writing as well which gave Dave a lot more time to pen the lyrics. Overall I’m very pleased with the result and I think it’s a great record.

7. Why go the direction of releasing another EP instead of a full-length?

Andrew: From the beginning the plan was always to record two EP’s and then a full length. We’re still a relatively new band and we need some time to work together, and really settle as a band. A lot can change between records, that much is evident when you compare ‘Sepulchral Torment’ to ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’. Also, you only record a debut full length album once. It’s a massive statement of intent so you have to get it right, only get one chance. Having said that, you never know, we are planning that the next release will be a full length, but, I think it’s better to release a really strong EP than a more diluted album… so there is always a possibility that the future holds yet another EP. Time will tell…

8. Did you feel any pressure to do this follow-up release to "Sepulchral Torment"?

Andrew: Yes and no. That pressure of expectation always rears its ugly head at some point… People will always ask when the next release will be out but that’s normal… people always want more, and when they get it they want more again.

There comes a point that you realize that nobody can rightfully expect anything from you. It sounds cheesy but music is art and art takes time. I don’t think deadlines are good when it comes to writing, it should take as long as it takes and as an artist you need to be happy with what you’ve created. The other thing is this, we’re a small band, who really cares? I doubt people are really that eager about a new Rex Shachath release, people aren’t thinking about it everyday, checking our website, praying for a new release.

9. Is it important for you to paint visual pictures with the songs?

Andrew: Me personally, I don’t think so. At least not at this point in time. To me this band is all about creating good, heavy, catchy music that’s fun to play and perform. Lyrics are important, they need to be intelligent and have some sort of substance, either personal, observation, reflective… But visually, I’d say this band is a lot more stripped back, down to basics and what really matters most in a band, good music and putting on a kick ass show.

10. What would be the cinematic equivalent of "Revocation Of The Blood Elect"?

Andrew: Good question. Very good question… It has to be something quite violent I would imagine. Ok, I got one, The Raid. If you haven’t heard of it… It’s an Indonesian martial arts film. It’s based around a block of flats ran by a crime boss. A SWAT team goes in to clear it out but the crime boss sees them coming and locks the flats down. The good guys have to fight their way through the flats, floor by floor, door to door, everyone is trying to stop them but eventually they get to the top and well, you can imagine what happens, they take the leader down.

11. Where is the new material headed?

Andrew: Where will NASA discover intelligent life? Who knows… I’d like it go further down the route we’ve taken with ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’… maybe expand on the bigger soundscapes we’ve touched on for example the ending of the title track. Time will tell…

12. What's your favorite song on the EP as of right now?

Andrew: Right now, it’s the title track ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’. I’ve always loved that song. It’s very catchy, and it’s also very technical which are two things I find can be quite tricky to marry. Dying Fetus are the masters of that.

Lyrically this song has a strong subject, it’s all about taking down the leaders and those in power, with their victims and those they’ve trampled on the way to the top getting their own back. Just because of who they are or their bloodline doesn’t make them the best people for those positions. Rulers need to be selfless and work for the people because they want to, not because there’s something in it for them. They need to work for the greater good, and respect nature not rape it for profit. But often we find that those that are in those positions, especially those that inherit it, will abuse their place. Greed is a fucking horrible thing.

13. How about plans for the rest of this year, leading right into next year?

Andrew: We’ve not much planned this year expect for the release of ‘Revocation Of The Blood Elect’ and a few more videos of behind the scenes things. We are in discussions about some touring next year but as of yet there’s nothing solid. Best way to keep up to date is to follow us on social media, Facebook etc.

14. Have you heard of Rex Shachath?

Andrew: I recognize the name… not sure exactly who they are though… are they any good [laughs]? Thank’s for the questions!

Come and Rest Announce "The Blacklist Tour"

Post Hardcore outfit Come and Rest have announced a new U.S. tour, with Roadrunner artist, More To Monroe, called “The Blacklist Tour”. The tour will begin in Nashville, TN on November 6th and will travel much of the southern states before heading up and down the east coast, finishing in Greensboro, NC on November 25th. Check the dates below for a city near you.

TOUR DATES:

11/6 Nashville, TN - Rocketown
11/8 Houston, TX - Walter's
11/10 Dallas, TX - Tomcat's West
11/12 Tallahassee, FL - Pug's
11/13 Atlanta, GA - Masquerade (w/ The Ghost Inside and Texas In July)
11/14 Fayetteville, NC - Drunk Horse Pub
11/15 Boonton, NJ - Boontunes
11/16 Watertown, NY - Flashback Lounge
11/18 Westland, MI - Token Lounge
11/19 Steger, IL - Reilly's Roadhouse
11/22 Clifton Park, NY - Upstate Concert Hall (w/ Ice Nine Kills, Wage War My Enemies & I The White Noise)
11/25 Greensboro, NC - Greene Street

Young Medicine Release Single, Hitting The Road This November

Electronic rockers Young Medicine are touring the midwest next month and are kicking things off with a brand new single “Living Fiction”, take a listen HERE. The single is available for FREE on their Bandcamp at https://goo.gl/xuTszC.

TOUR DATES:

11/17 - Columbia, MO @ The Social Room

11/18 - Chicago, IL @ Cobra Lounge

11/19 - Madison, WI @ The Red Zone Madison

11/20 - Janesville, WI @ The Back Bar

11/21 - Algona, IA @ The Afterlife Lounge

Awake At Last Talks About Questions

Awake At Last is a hard-hitting, melody driven rock band from Dover, Delaware. Formed in 2011, the band continues to tour, play shows, write and record music, and has so much more in-store. Thus, they have gone on to release their latest "Questions". Find out about their plans ahead and some insight as well.


1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

Awake At Last was formed in 2011 by lead singer Vincent Torres, and Guitarist Eric Blackway. The two musicians had played in multiple projects prior to Awake At Last but it wasn’t till after some time apart that they formed the band.  The initial EP “Awake At Last” Saw a little early success and got some radio play, so the band decided to tour on it.  We went to California and back but because of some differences we had to replace the original Drummer and Bassist.  We got drummer Bryan Mills and recorded the “Mansion Of Memories” EP right before current bassist Tyler Greene joined.  Once the line-up was complete the band took to the roads and began touring all around their regional area. Eventually the idea to switch Vincent Torres to Lead Vocals and hire on a new guitarist came up and Imran Xhelili  joined the group.  The group continued to tour until Bryan Mills was unable to and then we got Drummer Jon Finney which completes the Quintet.

2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?

After juggling a lot of different ideas it was originally going to be Alive At Last. But considering the fact that we (Eric and I) knew that at that moment we were going to make every sacrifice necessary to truly chase this dream we saw it as a sort of spiritual Awakening, like we knew our Purpose and henceforth we were Awake At Last.

 3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?

Being from Dover, Delaware is tough for us as a band… There was a great music scene in the earlier 2000's, but slowly but surely more and more all ages venues kept shutting down for whatever reasons and we’ve been practically reduced to a few decent bars which is good for 21 and up shows but a lot of what the band wants to do is to inspire younger adults to rise up and chase their passions as well. There are a few good bands from our area, some seeing some decent success, but as a group we’ve all been sort of performing CPR on Delawares music Scene. But don’t get me wrong… there are still a lot of amazing fans we have at our home town and they are all amazing.  We’re trying to expand our
family and grow even more.  I think with the introduction of the Firefly Music Festival Delaware is starting to show some promise for future opportunities for musicians.

4. How would you describe your style?

This is always the hardest question to answer.  All of the members take inspiration from all sorts of different aspects of music but I do think we’re reminiscent of bands like My Chemical Romance and The Used, but even that is using the comparison loosely. We want to bring all of the energy of pop,
punk, and metal, but blend in elements of classical composition and composed orchestrations that back up the high energy rock and roll. Add on top of that the high energy theatrical Vocals and you have our sound.

5. What's the story behind "Questions"?

Questions was written during a time of Crisis.  I was struggling a lot with my own limitations and
the real world was kicking my teeth in.  There was also a lot of different ideas coming from each band member which I think gave questions the sort of aggressive edge it ended up with.  But it was
also me taking a shot at fate and questioning everything it was I’ve experienced thus far not just as an artist, but as a human being during these crazy changing times. I think overall the song maintains
the positivity we always thrive off of, but also expresses the discord and frustrations of being a twenty-something in this era of art and expression.

6. Will there be an official music video to accompany this single or just a lyrical video? Why go the route of releasing a lyrical video as opposed to an official video?

It hasn’t been discussed as a band yet, but that’s not saying that we wouldn’t eventually do that.  The band is going through a re-branding of sorts and in that process we’ve all discussed the possibility of all these things and I’d like to release an official video to go with “Questions”, but we chose to go with a lyric video instead because rather than having a visual aid for the song it was the message in the lyrics that I really want people to think about so I wanted to put that out first so they could learn the words, and in learning the words relate to them.

7. Where can this single "Questions" be found upon, a future EP or album or it's just going to be that just a single?

I think we may keep it as just a single… then again we don’t know for sure, we’re discussing all possibilities.  If it remains a single I like that it sort of gets to stand alone in that aspect.  We were trying a lot of different ideas out and trying to find a direction for the band to go in and I think questions shows a lot of that confusion and yet it all comes together in a song that still remains one of my favorites we’ve written.

8. Where are you in the process of the new material? Do you have an idea as to what it will be, a new EP, album, etc.

We’ve been writing out skeletons for songs for months now and are moving into the “Take them into the garage” phase where we take the songs and perform them alongside each other and feel them out. In other words give the nervous system to the songs and then once we’ve felt them out we’ll begin a demoing process to put some muscle fibers on them then finally into the studio where we flesh them out and make them living entities. We are all excited for what is to come and we’re not holding anything back.

9. How does the new material compare to your previous EP release "King of the World"?

We continue to drive the concept of positivity through our music and that won’t change.   One of the things I do think will be different is that our messages are becoming more precise, and we’ve experienced new struggles so finding ways to overcome those struggles has driven us to a point.  The music will still keep the darker minor elements, but we are conceptualizing the human experience through our hardships and there may be an air of aggression but I want to maintain the theatrics in my words and how I sing them.

10. Are you guys signed or unsigned? If you aren't signed why take the DIY approach to releasing your material and promoting yourselves?

We are currently unsigned.  Though that’s not to say we’re opposed to the idea of being signed.  We want to do this no matter what.  If we can get label support that’d be great, but until that happens we aren’t going to let anything stop us from using the tools available through social media and the internet to be heard and to build our fan base. Not to mention the DIY movement is starting to become a thing.  I love meeting bands who are in the same boat… there’s a sense of comradely and it’s amazing how much we bond together and help each other through the journey

11.  If you aren't signed, what should labels/zines/promoters know about your band? Why should they be interested in it?

I think that what I would like the labels to know about us is that even though we’re not necessarily world class yet we’ve been grinding on the road for years. A lot of labels will sign bands and then once the band is required to produce results under time frames sometimes they burn out or weren’t ready for the pressure that comes with being in the music industry in this day and age.  I know that we’ve worked from the very bottom and have fought and bled for this band. We’ve become
accustomed to a lifestyle of earning a low income and having less because In all honesty we don’t care. If a label would just take a chance and see what we were capable of I know that my team with all our abilities could take on any challenge that would face us. We’ve run our band ourselves and have built a fan base.  With the support of a label that just expands our market and provides us an opportunity to change that many more perspectives.

12. What plans do you have for the future as a band?

The future is uncertain. Ideally we’d love to get some sort of label support and tour with bands as support so that we could prove ourselves and build the fan base. We have so many ideas that we think will help the music industry find itself again and pull itself out of the mainstream nonsense that gets aired everywhere. We are real people with real struggles and real messages and if in a future we can elevate the consciousness of our fans, friends, families, and loved ones than that is exactly the future for us.

13. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?

Awake At Last is available through all social media outlets:

Our website is www.awakeatlastrock.com

We are also available through these outlets.

Facebook: facebook.com/awake.at.last

Twitter: @Awakeatlastrock

Instagram: @Awakeatlastrock

Bandcamp, itunes, google play, Pandora, soundcloud, Iheartradio,

Thank you so much for the interview, and I’m sorry it took so long to get it back to you.  Been crazy busy on these tours. I appreciate the opportunity and hope we can continue to work together Natalie.

At The Gates Announces New Tour

Swedish melodic Death Metal masters, AT THE GATES, have just announced a string of U.S. tour dates to follow after their appearance on the 2016 version of the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise. Set to kick off on February 9th, 2016 in Fort Lauderdale FL, this tour of tours will feature label mates THE HAUNTED as well as DECAPITATED (direct support) and HARMS WAY.

Tomas Linberg (AT THE GATES) comments: "We are so excited to finally come back to the states for more shows. The last tour was such a great thing for us, and the line up for this one is equally awesome. We can't wait to get out there, reaching some of the places that missed out on the action last time! See you there!"

Marco Aro (THE HAUNTED) adds: "Finally!.....we are going to the US! We've been trying to get this tour together for quite some time now, and now it's official... The Haunted is teaming up with our brothers in At The Gates, Decapitated and Harms Way. All of us are so stoked about this and we hope you are too....see you out there!!"

Check out the list of dates below!

TOUR DATES:

02/09/2016 Fort Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution Live
02/10/2016 Orlando, FL @ House of Blues*
02/11/2016 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade
02/13/2015 Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey
02/14/2016 Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
02/16/2015 Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theatre
02/17/2015 Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
02/18/2016 Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues
02/19/2016 San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
02/20/2016 Pomona, CA @ The Glasshouse
02/21/2016 San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom
* AT THE GATES and HARMS WAY only

My Little Pony Releases Christmas Album "“It’s a Pony Kind of Christmas"

Hasbro Studios, the Los Angeles-based entertainment division of Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) and Sony Music/Legacy Recordings will release a My Little Pony Friendship is Magic holiday album, A Pony Kind of Christmas, on Friday, November 6th. The holiday themed album features a collection of classic and original carols performed by the cast of My Little Pony Friendship is Magic and the Phoenix Chamber Choir, the 12-time winner of the CBC National Radio Competition for Amateur Choirs and featured performer at the National Conductor’s Symposium and World Symposium on Choral Music.

A Pony Kind of Christmas gives My Little Pony fans the chance to celebrate the holidays with their favorite Pony characters. Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Pop Fly, Rarity, Spike, Applejack, Applebloom and Granny Smith unite to bring their unique and magical voices together to perform some of the most cherished songs of the holiday season, including “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night” and a brand new original Pony song – “It’s a Pony Kind of Christmas.” The album is produced by Emmy Award nominated composer and songwriter Daniel Ingram, known for his work on the My Little Pony franchise. A Pony Kind of Christmas is available for digital pre-order now at: http://smarturl.it/MLP_Xmas.

“Fans around the world love the characters and music of My Little Pony, and we are thrilled to bring some of the brand’s magic to the holiday season,” said Stephen Davis, President and Chief Content Officer of Hasbro Studios. “We think kids and parents will be delighted with A Pony Kind of Christmas, which features the ponies singing some of the most iconic carols of the season and a special new Pony holiday song. It’s a great way for fans of all ages to celebrate the holidays.”
"Legacy Recordings is pleased to be celebrating the holidays with Hasbro Studios this year with the release of A Pony Kind of Christmas," said Adam Block, President, Legacy Recordings. "And we're confident that through our partnership, this new My Little Pony seasonal album will become a holiday classic for kids of all ages for many Christmases to come."

Songs from A Pony Kind of Christmas include:

“It’s a Pony Kind of Christmas” (Performed By: Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Apple Jack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy & Phoenix Chamber Choir)
“Jingle Bells” (Performed By: Rainbow Dash)
“Deck the Halls” (Performed By: Rarity, Phoenix Chamber Choir)
“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” (Performed By: Twilight Sparkle & Phoenix Chamber Choir)
“Silent Night” (Performed By: Fluttershy & Phoenix Chamber Choir)
“Twelve Days of Christmas” (Performed By: Pinkie Pie)
“Last Year I Got Coal for Christmas” (Performed By: Pop Fly)
“Jolly ol’ St. Nick” (Performed By: Spike)
“Days Gone By - Auld Lang Syne” (Performed By: Applejack, Applebloom, Granny Smith)
“The Heart Carol” (Performed By: Phoenix Chamber Choir)

A Pony Kind of Christmas will be available for pre-order on Tuesday, October 27th and for digital download and on-demand streaming on Friday, November 6th, 2015.

Black Sabbath Announces Second Set of Tour Dates

Black Sabbath have announced a second set of tour dates for their The End Tour. Check out the list of tour dates listed below.

TOUR DATES:

Aug. 17 - Wantagh, NY - Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
Aug. 19 - Philadelphia, PA - Susquehanna Bank Center
Aug. 21 - Washington, DC - Jiffy Lube Live
Aug. 23 - Holmdel, NJ - PNC Bank Arts Center
Aug. 25 - Boston, MA - Xfinity Center
Aug. 27 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Arena
Aug. 29 - Toronto, ON - Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
Aug. 31 - Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Music Theater
Sep. 02 - Indianapolis, IN - Klipsch Music Center
Sep. 04 - Chicago, IL - Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sep. 07 - Dallas, TX - Gexa Energy Pavilion
Sep. 09 - Albuquerque, NM - Isleta Ampitheater
Sep. 11 - Salt Lake City, UT - USANA Ampitheater
Sep. 13 - Portland, OR - Sunlight Supply Arena
Sep. 15 - Oakland, CA - Oracle Arena
Sep. 17 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena
Sep. 19 - Hollywood, CA - Hollywood Bowl
Sep. 21 - Phoenix, AZ - AK-Chin Pavilion

Monster High Releases Trailer for "New Ghoul In School" Video Game

Monster High will be releasing another video game title, it having been a while since their previous video game release of "13 Wishes", being their most recent addition a few years ago. This time around, this game will be a revised take on the first game's release of "Ghoul Spirit". This new title being called "New Ghoul In School", will take you into the world of Monster High, creating your monster version of you!

The official story this time goes like this, "Come roam the halls of Monster High and get to know your new classmates. Join clubs, make friends and dress up in fierce fashions. But be aware, there’s something strange going on at Monster High! Cleo’s new amulet has been cursed by the spirit of Spookenhamen, and the student body is falling under his spell. Show us how you boo to save the school and all your new classmates from the mummy’s curse!"

Check out the trailer HERE with an expected release of November 17th 2015 with pre-orders HERE. This game will be made available for the following consoles, PS3, XBox, Nintendo Wii U, 3DS.

Lalaloopsy Double Feature DVDs, Lalaloopsy Holiday Treat and Lalaloopsy Sew Sweet Movies

Lalaloopsy have released numerous titles, so much so, that they have decided to re-release some titles into a combination of two together as one! Well sort of, "Lalaloopsy Holiday Treat" and "Lalaloopsy Sew Sweet Movies" aren't just 1 DVD disc, each of these are different titles, and each set, comes with not one but two DVD discs. The "Lalaloopsy Sew Sweet Movies" consists of 2 DVD discs one containing "Lalaoopsies A Sew Magical Tale" with added mini adventure bonus shorts, and the other disc contains "LalaloopsyPonies The Big Show" with more bonus mini adventure shorts and even a sing-a-along!

While the "Lalaloopsy Holiday Treat" also contains of two DVD discs with their own titles, "Lalaloopsy Babies First Steps" and "Adventures in Lalaloopsy Land the Search for Pillow". Both of these also containing what the other titles, did, having those bonus mini adventure shorts, as well as a sing-a-along! As far as the titles go, having seen them beforehand, picking them up from my local library, these titles seeing again, brought back those previous enjoyments. The fun, laughs, and giggles, with all of the beloved characters, as they interact with one another, sharing their stories, secrets, and just fun filled fun, in all of Lalaloopsyland itself! New characters and the old one's are brought out, showcasing their new abilities when talking to one another, making each of these films, more exciting to witness.

These titles, are as the others, surly another one of those sets, that you gota have in your Lalaloopsy collection of sorts! It's another step into seeing future titles from this brand, combining even other tales of adventure, together into one awesome set!

Lalaloopsy - Festival Of Sugary Sweets

When discovering Lalaloopsy had turned itself into its own TV series, with side movies popping up every now and again, this title "Lalaloopsy Festival Of Sugary Sweets" takes your favorite characters on yet a whole new adventure! This time it's just the right time for the Festival of Sugary Sweets, where a sugar shortage has threatened the festival, causing the girls to think up the best way to save the day! Having discovering that by working together as a team, that only something special can occur. Lots of laughs, fun, and various characters come in and out, with a lot of references to previous movie adventures, like Dot's airplane from "The Search for Pillow" and "Wishful Thinking" is used here, whereas Elephant's Birthday is celebrated and is revealed that he is indeed a boy! Other characters like Peppy and Sugar have all new looks with the new minis and Littles debuting as well! It's just chalk full of various activities, fun, and excitement, as the characters interact with one another, creating different things to happen, that makes each scene that more enjoyable. Be sure to add this one to your Lalaloopsy collection, because it's sugariness, really bites at your sweet tooth!

Lolita KompleX Asks YOU to Join their Circus!

Using their uniqueness of mixing together goth, rock, and metal, all blended well together with Japanese visual kei elements, the group known as LOLITA KOMPLEX was created. A traveling act of sorts, playing live shows, of course, building up the energy of writing and recording for their follow-up release to 2011's "Le Cabaret des Marionnettes", with the release of their newest album "The Greatest Show on Earth".


1. Let's talk a little about the history of the band. When did you originally form and is this the original line-up?

We originally formed back in 2008 after the break-up of my previous band Dushi and I were in. We wanted to do something different and I met nana a couple of months earlier and we were talking about starting a new band, so that it how all came together.

2. Do you remember how the idea of forming the band first came up?

We basically wanted to create a band we would wanna go and see ourselves, something very visual, that still rocks and has stage presence. We didn’t want to copy Japanese bands or American bands. We wanted to take the parts we liked and create our own blend. We all have very different backgrounds.

3. How long after you formed was it until you played your first live show?

I can’t remember the exact date, but I’d say VERY soon. We are a live band. In times like this, where every band, even rock bands do a lot of things on the computer, we intentionally took a very traditional approach. Most songs on the first album were written in the rehearsal studio and we still test out songs live before we even record them.

4. What are your memories of the performance?

It went surprisingly well. From a current point of view we hadn’t found our style entirely at that time, but we got a great response from the audience. There had been some line-up changes in the meantime though we greatly benefited from.

5. How did you guys come up with your band name? Does it have a meaning behind it?

I like when a name is open for interpretation, so I don’t wanna give away too much. Some people think it’s just a reference to Japanese fashion, others see it as criticism of the fashion and advertising industry for using thin models without grown-up female attributes to glorify the underage body form. Maybe both are right. Maybe it’s just a name like “John” or “Jack”…

6. What bands have influenced your band and its sound?

Like I said earlier, we all have different backgrounds, so if I name some bands here the others wouldn’t necessarily agree. We just pick bits and pieces out of everything that seems interesting. Sometimes I hear bands and think “I don’t like the singer, but these riffs are cool” or the other way round. I might even hear some radio-pop crap and think “well the melody could be nice if played on a guitar” or something similar. We have a wide range of influences from traditional gothic rock over horror punk to all kinds of temporary metal or old stuff like rockabilly or glam rock, but we also like classic hard rock stuff like Alice Cooper or Guns n Roses and if it’s just for the attitude.

7. What lyrical theme do you guys use in your music? What message do you want to send?

It can be anything really. I like if something sounds really obvious but leaves a lot of room for interpretation and turns out to have a deeper meaning… if you want it to have one. Like a musical ink blot test. On our new album there is the line “the whole world is a circus, you look like a clown to me” and even if we sing about crazy puppets and marching harlequins it’s the core message could be “be whoever you want to be but don’t take yourself too seriously”.

8. What is your latest album and why should people buy it?

Out new album is called “The Greatest Show on Earth”, because our live shows tend to be a circus-like spectacle with a lot of interaction with the audience. We wanted to incorporate that in our music as well. People should buy it because they like it, but that’s not how the world goes…so buy it because it makes you cool and your skin will be softer afterwards. We put a lot of time and effort in in, we recorded the drums live… most people don’t know how rare it actually is, but that’s exactly what we were going for. We used the word “psycho-acoustic” a lot during the production. You might not hear it, but you feel it.

9. How would you say that "The Greatest Show on Earth" has evolved from your debut album "Le Cabaret des Marionnettes"?

Well, naturally a lot, we figured out who we are as a band and we grew together as musicians. The fact that our debut is a little bit “dirty” was not solely a question of budget and certainly not due to lack of know-how. We wanted to underline the “rock” element. We were playing a lot on gothic festivals and the scene changed a lot in the last decade or so and is now dominated by electro bands. We made the decision to clearly differentiate ourselves from that tendency and show that we are a live band. That’s also why it took us so long to record another album. Of course it’s great to create something new, but we’d much rather play live all the time. And we’ve already been playing most songs from out new album live for years now.

10. Would you say that "Le Cabaret des Marionnettes" and "The Greatest Show on Earth" have any comparisons or differences from each other?

We started in a small dollhouse and are now fully grown circus artists.

11. Is it important for you to paint visual pictures with the songs?

Certainly...but in different layers and to leave enough room for interpretation. With all these origin stories and explanations I have the feeling we lack imagination these days. I prefer if stories leave something open.

12. What would be the cinematic equivalent of "The Greatest Show on Earth"?

Probably something by Crispin Glover.

13. Which would you say is favorite song on the album right now?

Depends on the situation. If I drive down the highway in a hot-rod it’s probably Rumpelstielzchen, if I go to a dubious psychic at a run down side show its “The Great Deception” and if I wanna dream about 80's stadium rock its “One in a Million”.

14. What's the story behind "Welcome to the Circus", in regards to the tune and its accompanying video?  Are there any plans to release any more promo videos from the album and will they be a continuation of this one?

We are a live band, we are a side show. If we come to your town there will be a spectacle. That’s what we wanted to demonstrate. The next promo video is already finished and will be released soon. There will also be a third one, which will be a live video we recently shot. The videos will not be connected, also in regards what I said earlier about leaving things open. Spontaneity is also a huge part of it. We involve the audience a lot, so no show is alike.

15. Tell us about your thoughts on your local music scene?

I don’t know anything about that. We are friends with bands from all over the planet and Lolita KompleX doesn’t even have a real homebase now. We live in different countries and travel a lot. We started off in Vienna and there is a lot of talent there, but also a lot of jealousy, because that’s part of the Austrian mentality. I’m currently living in Malta, which is like travelling back in time for 50-100 years and metal bands still get a lot of shit from the public for “summoning Satan” and weird stuff like that... so in some ways it’s like the bible belt in the US, but I never saw myself as a part of any local scene.

16. Are there any new and upcoming bands that you are into?

I wish there were.

17. Has Lolita KompleX ever played in the U.S. or plan to do so in the future?

Not yet, but I hope we will at some point.

18. What are your current show/tour plans, if any?

We just released the album and are currently doing all the interviews, once this is done we hope to play as many shows as possible. I hope we can do an extended Germany tour and add up on that. As of now there are no shows scheduled.

19. Describe your live performance for those who have never seen you live?

Imagine a 1890 medium evoking the spirit of a 18th century hussar and transferring it into the body of a clown whose gathering other demons burning down a circus tent while Peter Pan is playing Alice Cooper and Rob Zombie on a magical guitar made out of Tesla’s coffin. Also we don’t take ourselves that seriously and invite people on stage and make a lot of mess.

20. What does the next year hold for you and your band?

I’m not a psychic, but I hope unlimited stardom.

Also pick up our album "The Greatest Show on Earth" from the links below.

Digipack Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/LolitaZon
Digipack Fantotal: http://tinyurl.com/LKXtotal
iTunes: http://smarturl.it/Lolita_iTunes
Amazon mp3: http://tinyurl.com/KomplexZon

Aiden Releases New Song "Animals"

Aiden has released another new song off their final "Self-Titled" album. This song features guest vocals from Motionless In White's frontman vocalist Chris Motionless. The song is called "Animals" check it out HERE.

Whitechapel Releases Live Video for "The Saw Is The Law" Is Twice As Brutal"

Whitechapel has released a live video for "The Saw Is The Law Is Twice As Brutal". Check it out HERE.

Suicide Silence Releases Video for "Sacred Words"

Suicide Silence has released a new video for "Sacred Words". Check it out HERE.

The Royal Blasphemy - Sanatorium:Freedom

When releasing a debut effort of any sorts, well an album, is always intending to be the BIG achievement for a lot of aspiring musicians and artists; in the case of a little metal band known as The Royal Blasphemy, this debut album is something they like to call "Sanatorium:Freedom". Consisting of 10-tracks, the album rounds off as being a solid metal release, a lot of catchy tunes enlisted throughout like some that pop out, would have to be "Escape", "Death", "Corruption (I Will Never Surrender To You)", and lastly "The Riot", are all solid pieces of metal influence. Like when hearing these guys, you hear a lot of the old school style with that modern day aspect, having the two elements come together as one. It's just one of those releases that's really a solid piece of work. The Royal Blasphemy is an act to look out for indefinitely.

Make Me A Donut - Bright Side

Make Me A Donut the name itself is pretty funny when you look, think, or say it no? Well that was the case for me when I discovered these guys and their latest album "Bright Side". It consists of 10-tracks that brings out that progressive metalcore genre, with constant break downs, screams, and just interesting melodies that keeps the music going. Like such tracks as "Skyline", "Valar Morghulis", and "Between", really captures what is offered off this release. As said, it is filled with break downs, screams, instrumentals that just are pure heaviness that keeps the music never ending, but constantly going. Like a never ending song, if you will, is what Make Me A Donut offers with their tunes. Their style brings to mind that of Miss May I and Between the Buried and Me. Make Me A Donut knows their style and can play it well when it comes down to "Bright Side" it has a solid round of material that just opens up the possibilities for even more.

A Holy Sin - Self-Titled

Local acts are a hit or miss situation when it comes to the music scene. For California El Monte residents A Holy Sin, they put quite the bit of effort into their debut EP. A "Self-Titled" release might I add, as far as the EP itself and the band's genre choice it blends deathcore/metalcore together to create its own blended variation of the two genres. As for the EP it takes 4-tracks each of which are rather catchy, fast, and very fist pumpy, like take "Another Soul Laid To Rest" along with "Memories" the first glimpse that was given by these guys, these two songs alone, really make out what these guys are all about. They got that genre in place, with the vocals and instrumentals to back it all up. It rounding off to being a solid piece of work by another one of those up-and-comers.

Freakangel's Dimitri Discusses their Show Of Violence

Industrial metal band Freakangel was founded at the end of 2009, since then though, the band has gone on to perform at various festivals, shows, tours, and of course release material including three albums, three EPs and several live releases including most recent "The Show Of Violence", a live album with a free live stream of the video portion of this same performance. Frontman vocalist Dimitri discusses this release and the plans for the future.


1. What made you guys decide to form a band?

Dimitri: We all have some musical background and our dream was to form a band that didn’t restrict our sound to a single subgenre. We are big fans of death, black, grind metal and industrial, techno and even rap. Why not try to blend them all together.

2. Your band's name is Freakangel but the initials are Frkngl, how did you come up with that? Why did you want to shorten it to this way and why do you think bands tend to have initials anyway?

Dimitri: I remember us working on some ideas for our banner and Freakangel was always too huge to fit... we've decided to use initials instead. I think that it looks more modern and fancy at the same time. I never thought that we will start using it even on our albums... but why not? Logos are good... especially when they are simple to draw/write.

3. Why did you want "The Show Of Violence" live CD/DVD to be released separately as opposed to being together?

Dimitri: I do not think that we have released it separately. I still count it as a one huge single release that is just being released on different platforms. Do you have enough time to watch it? Perfect. No? Grab it digitally and have a listen on the way to work.

4. You decided to go and release "The Show Of Violence" live DVD portion for FREE online, how come and why do you think doing the free approach means to the music scene? Will you be considering it more often?

Dimitri: We have decided to thank our fans for being with us since 2010 when we released our debut album. Giving this release away for free after working on it for 8 months, we thought, was best way to show our gratitude. We salute all our fans for their friendship and support!  

5. The live version of 'The Show Of Violence" was available as a digital album only, why not release it in physical format as well?

Dimitri: Physical format costs more... Today it's a tougher market than it was when we first started. Different times need different approach... and we are talking about live album. It's pretty simple now days to download audio from YouTube and we are very thankful to our fans that we willing to support us by buying our music even if it's out there for free.

6. Why did you think that your 2014 tour of "The Ones To Fall" was the right tour to do this live album and DVD for? What made this tour stand out above all the rest?

Dimitri: I can't say that this tour stands out above all the other shows that we performed ... but at the same time its much more improved compared to other shows we played 2-3 years ago. From all points of view...  We are getting older and smarter if its possible to say and at the same time we have almost finished working on our 4th album that will bring new changes into our sound... so we wanted to say "goodbye" to our old era with some huge farewell to remember. Exactly as we did in 2012 with our first "The Faults Of Humanity: live" DVD. Check them both out and you will see the difference. I hope that we will never cease to surprise.

7. You got to do this show in your hometown of Tallinn, Estonia, did you already decide since day 1 that if you ever did a live release it would be at home? Why did you want to do it at home? Do you think doing it from home as opposed to somewhere else was the right choice or do you think you would have gotten a different reaction or it wouldn't of mattered?

Dimitri: We love and support our local scene and our local crew. It was decided since day 1 that we will make it here in Tallinn, Estonia. It's not about reaction (it's good at home and abroad, thankfully). It's all about being true to your roots.

8. Why did you think naming this release "The Show Of Violence" was the right way to go? How is this the show of violence?

Dimitri: Firstly I would like to commit that we are totally against any real violence... and answering to your question... well... we wanted to name this release after one of our songs but with a bit different approach. Our latest video was for the track called "The Book Of Violence". I think that this idea came from Marilyn Manson's live album "The Last Tour on Earth" and his track "The Last Day on Earth". We love Manson.

9. Is this your first live album and live DVD release?

Dimitri: Yeah, it's our first live album to be released separately but our second DVD. "The Faults Of Humanity: live: Limited DVD was released in 2012 and its totally sold out now. Both concerts are available on our YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/freakangelTV).

10. Would you consider releasing more live releases in the future?

Dimitri: I think that this is a good idea and a good chance to show people how you progress in what you are doing... and not all our fans can see our show live so why not to let them see it online? So yeah... we will definitely do another live release in the future.

11. Do you have any new music in the works besides this new release?

Dimitri: We are near finishing our 4th album... We are still searching for our sound so once again it will be something different... it will differ from our previous work for sure.

12. What other plans of activity, can we expect to see from you guys?

Dimitri: We will hit the road once again during this October and November. Only European dates for now,  but we are still looking forward of being able to reach the states.

13. Any final words you would like to express?

Dimitri: Thank you for your time and let's keep the underground music alive!

Aiden Releases New Song "Violence and Devotion"

Aiden has released a new song called "Violence and Devotion", that features guest vocals from Ash Costello of New Years Day. Check out the new song HERE.

Ice Nine Kills Announces the "Fresh Faces Tour"

Ice Nine Kills will kick off their U.S. tour, headlining the Fearless Records presents "Fresh Faces Tour" with support from labelmates Wage War, My Enemies & I, and The White Noise. The North American run will kick off this Friday, October 24th in Rochester, NY at Water Street Music Hall. Tickets are available at FreshFacesTour.com with exclusive VIP ticketing bundle options.

TOUR DATES:

Oct 24 - Rochester, NY @ Water Street Music Hall
Oct 25 - Toledo, OH @ Frankies
Oct 26 - Pontiac, MI @ The Pike Room at Crofoot
Oct 28 - Indianapolis, IN @ The Emerson Theatre
Oct 29 - Iowa City, IA @ Blue Moose Lounge
Oct 30 - Burnsville, MN @ The Garage
Nov 1 - Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall
Nov 3 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Music Garage
Nov 5 - Seattle, WA @ Chop Suey
Nov 6 - Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre
Nov 8 - Sacramento, CA @ The Boardwalk
Nov 10 - Camarillo, CA @ Rock City Studios
Nov 11 - Anaheim, CA @ Chain Reaction
Nov 12 - San Diego, CA @ SOMA
Nov 13 - Phoenix, AZ @ Joe's Grotto
Nov 15 - Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad
Nov 16 - Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th Street Collective
Nov 17 - St Louis, MO @ The Firebird
Nov 19 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Altar
Nov 20 - Allentown, PA @ Crocodile Rock
Nov 21 - Lemoyne, PA @ The Champ
Nov 22 - Clifton Park, NY @ Upstate Concert Hall
Nov 24 - Freehold, NJ @ GameChangerWorld

Ice Nine Kills Releases Video for "Communion Of The Cursed"

Ice Nine Kills has set out to shock fans with the release of the music video for new single "Communion Of The Cursed". Inspired by the terrifying story of William Peter Blatty's The Exorcist, Ice Nine Kills spared no detail in re-creating the theatrical thriller with their own metal flare. Check out the video HERE.

Anthrax Releases New Song "Evil Twin"

"Evil Twin," the first new song from Anthrax's long-awaited album set for a first quarter 2016 worldwide release (Megaforce/North America * Nuclear Blast/Europe, UK), has been unleashed. Also released is the "Evil Twin" lyric video, a compelling barrage of places, victims, actions, and some of the infamous zealots and others who have perpetrated violent extremism on innocents around the world, aptly exemplifying the song's powerful message. "Evil Twin" is now available digitally, and can be purchased via Apple Music, iTunes and Amazon.

Musically, "Evil Twin" is a full-on thrash-metal tune that blasts off with a raging guitar riff, accelerates expeditiously and is completely uncontrollable.  "Yeah, that opening riff is really evil," laughed the band's Charlie Benante.  "We had done a lot of touring with Death Angel and Exodus, so I was in a really thrashy state of mind when I starting writing the riffs for that song.  I think along with Scott's lyrics and Frank's melodies, we came up with a really great, old school thrash metal feel."

As Anthrax bassist Frank Bello put it, "it's a song that begs to be played live."

Lyrically, the track unapologetically denounces the self-righteous religious extremists who spread their bloody terror under the guise of a Holy War.

You represent your discontent

Slaughtering the innocent

Insolence

You're no martyrs

"I was very affected by the Charlie Hebdo massacre as I have been with all of the shootings that have taken place at schools and movie theatres," said Anthrax's lyricist Scott Ian.   "I can't figure out what would cause someone to think that was the right thing to do.  'I'll show the world, I'll make my God happy.'  It's just such bullshit.  I'm not bagging on religion, that's not my intent, but people who go to that extreme, who feel they have become judge, jury and executioner over their fellow man because you or I don't believe the same thing they do, I think that's the 'Evil Twin' of humanity.  Writing words about that is my only catharsis."

Beginning in the Fall of 2014, Anthrax - Benante (drums), Ian (rhythm guitar), Bello (bass), Joey Belladonna (vocals), and lead guitarist Jon Donais - took their time in the studio recording the follow up to their Grammy-nominated, critically-acclaimed 2011 album, Worship Music.  The band recorded some 20 original songs, almost twice as many as they had ever brought into the studio in the past.  In terms of how the new music sounds, Bello said, "The thing about Anthrax...we have this heavy, thrashy music and Joey's powerful and melodic vocals.  I love heavy music, but I also love melody, so the challenge is to blend them together so they sound like Anthrax.  I think we've done a really good job of that on the new album."

Check out the new song HERE.

Echo Black's Danny Discusses New Tune, Touring, and More

Echo Black draws in different influences of each unique member. They are set out to make evocative and visceral music that you can feel in your bones, heart, and soul. Formed by frontman vocalist Danny Blu discusses their recent single and video for "Burn Another Day" as well as their touring plans and other plans for new music and much more.


1. How do you describe your music to people?

Danny: We call it industrial pop. Most people don't know what that means, so we say it's aggressive, melodic pop music, electronically driven, but played authentically live.

2. Can you tell us a brief history of your band?

Danny: The band came into existence in 2011. I had written and put out "Do Your Worst" as "Danny Blu" and needed to put a band together to play live shows. The band remains "Danny Blu" for a sophomore release, and we toured that album last year. When we got back, we started writing more as a band and wanted to solidify our image and message and future. That's when we decided to change it to a band name. So, "Echo Black" was born.

3. What image do you think your music conveys?

Danny: We say we are the "sound of midnight." I think that encompasses a lot of things. Midnight could be the start to a night or the end. It could mean a quiet, contemplative forest or a busy Friday city street. I think we make music inspired by the night because we are nighttime people. It's when you can think, reflect, and create without distraction.

4. Where did the band's name Echo Black come from and even represent or mean?

Danny: We are all musicians with different backgrounds coming together to make the music we make. We wanted to name the band something that encompassed that, so we came to "Echo" to sort of describe the process of all our ideas bouncing around together and becoming a single sound. The "Black" came with the whole nighttime idea I was talking about.

5. What's the story behind the video and song for "Burn Another Day"?

Danny: The song is all about unifying the outcasted, making a whole out of a bunch of individual souls. The video takes the anti-bully movement a step further. Instead of waiting til it gets better, fight back. Make it better. We aren't saying use violence, we're saying "be heard."

6. Why did you want this song to be picked out as a single and video?

Danny: We felt very strongly about the message of the song and what the video turned into. We also knew it was a strong song and would be a great way for us to debut.

7. How did you get in contact with Nathan Crooker to direct? Will you work with him again?

Danny: ABSOLUTELY. Nathan is a gem. A true artist. We would work with him together in a heartbeat and are already working on out next collaboration. We met through a mutual friend.

8. Do you have an idea as to what the next single and or video will end up being?

Danny: We do, but we can't say quiiiiiiiite yet. ;)

9. Where will this single find it's home off an EP or full-length release?

Danny: That is sort of up in the air. As a new band, we are running with what comes to us. As our upcoming tour pans out we will solidify our next steps. Of course we're constantly writing, so we'll be ready for anything!

10. Speaking of releases, what have you released so far?

Danny: As Echo Black, just this first single.

11. Do you have any new music in the works?

Danny: We have other music recorded waiting in the wings ;) be on the lookout for that!

12. You are about to start a fantastic US Tour with Combichrist and The Birthday Massacre. If you could think of one thing you would like to accomplish the most through that tour what would that be?!

Danny: Come back alive. But really, we just want to reach as many new fans as possible. We think our sound lies right in between Combichrist and The Birthday Massacre so we are super excited to play for their fans.

13. What have you done to prepare yourselves for the tour?

Danny: SO MUCH. As this is our first tour as Echo Black, we had a good amount to take care of. We bought a tour bus, new gear, rehearsed the hell out of our set, new tour costumes, etc. we're ready ;)

14. What are you looking forward to about working with Combichrist and The Birthday Massacre on this tour?

Danny: The advice they can give us. They've been in this game for a while now, so I'm sure they have plenty of wisdom to pass on. They also seem like really cool people.

15. What could one expect from a Echo Black show?

Danny: Total and complete destruction. We play emotionally and leave everything on the stage. This is much more than a job to us. Fans can expect a pretty theatrical experience. When our four energies combine it's a force to be reckoned with.

16. Once the tour in the USA is over, what do you have planned afterwards?

Danny: We'll see! We are hoping to be back on the road in the spring.

All Shall Perish To Release New Music and Rejoins Vocalist Eddie Hermida

All Shall Perish have rejoined with vocalist Hernan Hermida known as Eddie along with joining in with guitarist Chris Storey in a revamped version of the band, who is currently working on new music. Hermida was the frontman for all three of All Shall Perish's releases, before he left to focus full time as the singer of Suicide Silence, a position he will continue to do. Expect to hear new material soon!

Pyro, Ohio Releases New Song "The Truest Reflection"

Virginia’s Pyro, Ohio has partnered up with Substream Magazine to exclusively premiere that band’s first single off their hotly anticipated follow up to their 2013 "Before The Sun Sets…" EP. “The Truest Reflection,” is off the forthcoming album entitled "Keepsakes" that will be released November 13th. The album is following on the heels of being selected as one of the top American unsigned bands by Hot Topic, having their music video premiered on Substream Magazine, and playing the 2015 Vans Warped Tour in Charlotte, NC.

Guitarist Jake Whalen goes on to explain the album’s theme by saying, “Keepsakes is about tangible things we hold onto over the years to keep our memories alive. Our memories can be a warm, happy nostalgia or a suppressed nightmare. The themes of the album are sort of a dichotomy between the good memories and bad memories. For every song with a positive theme, there is a counterpart song with a more negative theme. Good or bad, our past is what makes us who we are today.”

The Andreas Magnusson (Haste The Day, Oh Sleeper, The Black Dahlia Murder) produced album will be released November 13th and feature eleven dynamic slabs of post-hardcore that is sure to commence head bobbing through the entirety of its 37 minute runtime. Guitarist Stephen Noel commented on the band’s sound by explaining, “We’ve always been influenced by early 2000’s post-hardcore and pop-punk bands, but I think you can hear even more of an impact of those great bands on our melodies and song structures of Keepsakes. Our songs are as varied and manic as always, and somehow this new album is even heavier and more energetic than Before the Sun Sets… even while incorporating parts reminiscent of the late 90’s and early 2000’s alternative scene. We didn’t really steer the sound of the album this way, but it absolutely lends itself to the nostalgic theme of the album.”

Check out the new song right HERE.

TRACKLISTING:

1. Keepsakes
2. It's Not My Cup Of Tea, But I'll Drink It
3. The Genie Should Stay in the Bottle
4. The Truest Reflection
5. A King's Departure is Never Silent
6. Modern Romantics
7. Malevolence vs Karma
8. A Glass Half Empty is a Life Full of Regrets
9. Ripley's Nightmare
10. What's Past is Prelude
11. If Only I Could Learn to Swim

MOONSPELL to Return to North America This Winter

MOONSPELL is pleased to announce that they will be returning to North America sharing the stage with Symphonic Metal legends Epica.  The tour starts January 21st in New York, NY and wraps up with an appearance on the 70,000 Tons of Metal Cruise.  A list of all dates can be found below.

MOONSPELL frontman Fernando Ribeiro commented on the upcoming tour:

"We are thrilled to return the US, alongside our friends in Epica. This will be our first tour of the year so we will for sure celebrate with our American and Canadian fans. It is a real honor to share the stage with Epica.  We will be sure to haunt this tour with our absolute Portuguese darkness. Under the spell!"

TOUR DATES:

1/21: New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
1/22: Toronto, ON @ Opera House
1/23: Quebec City, QC @ Imperial Theater
1/25: Cleveland, OH @ Agora Ballroom
1/26: Louisville, KY @ Diamond Pub Music Hall
1/28: Minneapolis, MN @ Mill City Nights
1/29: Chicago, IL @ Concord Music Hall
1/30: St. Louis, MO @ Ready Room
2/1: Raleigh, NC @ Lincoln Theater
2/2: Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
2/3: Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
2/4 - 2/8: 70,000 Tons of Metal Cruise

BabyMetal Funko Pop Figures Coming this Christmas!

BabyMetal and Funko Pop have already had a collaboration with the exclusive Hot Topic t-shirt released not that long ago. Speculation was surfacing as to if the t-shirt would lead to actual Funko Pop figures. Well the answer is YES! The trio comprised of Su-metal, Yuimetal, and Moametal are coming this December! The trio will be sold separately not together! They are series 43 through 45 in the Funko Pop line! Check out photos below and expect to see these at local retails and online as well!

BabyMetal Funko Pop Hot Topic Exclusive T-Shirt

BabyMetal Su-metal

BabyMetal Yuimetal

BabyMetal Moametal