May 2017
Edge Of Attack's Jurekk says The End is My Insanity
Edge Of Attack came together in 2008, was an active band playing shows, writing and recording material that would lead to two LP's "Edge Of Attack" (2013) and "Fiend Of Possession" (2016). Later having the band split up due to typical band reasoning's. But looks on the horizon see the band possibly getting back together in the coming future. For now though, Jurekk James guitarist/vocalist goes into detail about his time with Edge Of Attack, and how some of the material off their releases dealt with mental illness and how he is here to help those who suffer just as he does.
1. You mentioned of suffering from a mental illness, would you like to disclose what mental illness?
I suffer from anxiety and depression. It's always been present in my music, lyrical-wise as well. It's more presented in "My Insanity", like that is my song.
2. How do "My Insanity" and "The End" involve your mental illness?
"My Insanity", the song was written in a weird temp and the intro was also in a weird way. More or less though, the idea of the song was for me to write a song, that was super weird. But it was still catchy as well. I always have to have that hook, to hook you in ya know? I can't go and write a song without a BIG hook! The idea of the song and its lyrics, it's about the struggle with anxiety and depression. Like I think the song opens up with the lyrics that read "What do you do when all hope is gone". That says it all right there alone.
Now "The End" was written in a phase of my life at the time of where I was with someone, for the longest time. I wrote that song about us, because we were coming to an end. It is just life and how it works, it just doesn't work out, like a never ending cycle type of thing.
I have nothing against Roxanne, whom I was with for 4 years. She just didn't have the ethic to want to go and work, let alone finish the album. The album being "Fiend Of Possession", doesn't even have her on it, because she was hating me at that time, she never finished it. She's only present on some of the material off that album.
3. Can you go into further detail about how "My Insanity" revolves around your mental illness?
"My Insanity" was written from a person dealing with panic disorder and depression. If you listen to the lyrics, it is more about always being on edge. It is like if you are going to get ready and someone is watching you. This song being a favorite for me off this album. The guest vocalist we had really nailing the vocals but anyway! This song is just for those people who deal with anxiety that is all it is. It's like to those who have that paranoia anxiety feeling of always being watched or followed ya know? It's hard to live with, but after a while you can deal with it. But it is also hard to accept it too. This song was written at a time I was not so sure, on who I was.
4. What about "The End", what can you explain about how this track involves your mental state of being.
"The End" was written like I said, it is in the same texture on purpose because there is that feeling of tension when you listen to the song. Lyrically the song was written for those who know of something or someone and being able to let go. Just let go of what you have known of that time, place, person or whatever it may be and just accept and be who you are as a person.
5. Why was it just these tracks off "Fiend Of Possession" that reflected your mental illness so much so?
If you ever listen to my lyrics, under my namesake, they always involve or revolve around my mental illnesses. Those two songs came out as being the one's because they were able to allow me to be expressive of myself. Which I don't really do often or before actually. Usually when I write lyrics I do it differently and these songs I just poured my heart into them so to speak.
6. What do you have to say to those who also suffer from mental illnesses?
Push through. Like when you get through high school, there is that sense thinking that all the problems will go away type of feeling but it is not like that. You get those same problems if not a new set of problems you will always be dealing with. It is okay, being who you are is who you are. Just be you, push yourself to your own goals and everything will be fine and work out.
7. How would you say you cope your everyday life with this mental illness?
For me, coping was really hard. When I was with other acts, it was really hard. I didn't know who I was or where I was really. By the time I had written these tracks we discussed I had grown a lot. In terms of how I deal, I take each day at a time, set goals for myself and accomplish them one by one. You just have to push through it's all you can really do.
8. Would you want to give any advice or recommendations in regards to mental illness and what people should do if they are suffering or in your position?
I've been on medication for a while, they never really helped. The biggest thing for me, was being able to talk to someone, no matter who it was. If I had someone to talk too about my issues for 5 minutes if not more than that like 1-2 hours, then that would work for me. Being able to just talk about your issues and being able to express what you're dealing with is all you need really. It was for me, it's helped me a lot, so if you are someone that is not one to talk to others. Try your best to bring yourself out of your comfort zone as best as possible and just talk it out. It will help you out and go a long ways. The thing most people don't understand with these issues is the pressure we have and being able to get it off your chest. It just goes a long way ya know? I talk to my own sister and she is my rock just having someone to talk too everyday will do the trick. There is a tip too just talk.9. What about to those who feel they are a bother to those around them and don't know what to say when needing to talk it out?
You are not bothering them. You would be surprised who would show up. Your family or friends will always be there and want to talk with you. You just need to be the one to speak up. Just be honest about how you feel, they are always willing to listen.
10. Anything else you want to say or get out there?
Nope I feel we covered it all!
BRATS Preview Live DVD with "Pain" Video
Japanese girls rock band BRATS have released a live music video for "Pain" (with lyrics co-written by singer Rei Kuromiya), one of the new songs they debuted at their March 29 “Reborn” concert at Ikebukuro Live Inn Rosa, the band’s first live event in over 2 years.
The full 6-song live performance is included as a special DVD in the limited-edition release of BRATS' double-A-side single “Ainikoiyo”/”Nounai Shoukyo Game”, on sale in Japan on June 21.
BRATS gave international fans a head-start on the live tracks with audio versions attached to the international digital release of “Ainikoiyo”/”Nounai Shoukyo Game” last week.
Video: BRATS - Pain (live)
https://youtu.be/lb0pg_kbtQE
BRATS – “Ainikoiyo”/”Nounai Shoukyo Game”
1. Ainikoiyo
2. Nounai Shoukyo Game
BRATS “Reborn” at Live Inn Rosa 03/29/2017
Ainikoiyo (Live)
Nakattakoto (Live)
Nounai Shoukyo Game (Live)
Pain (Live)
Seitouka Pride Monster (Live)
Kimarigoto (Live)
iTunes
http://bit.ly/Ainikoiyo_SingleiTunes
Google Play
http://bit.ly/Ainikoiyo_SingleGGLPlay
Spotify
http://bit.ly/Ainikoiyo_SingleSpotify
Flow Celebrates 15th Anniversary Year with Fighting Dreamers
Starting in July 2017, FLOW will begin their 15th anniversary year, beginning with the release of a new mini-album Fighting Dreamers. This 15th anniversary commemorative album features 11 anime voice actors taking part in the lead song’s chorus, and each of the 5 members writing a new song, coming together to create an album featuring the new FLOW.
The first song features a new version of “GO!!!”, recorded in one take as if they were performing live. A total of 11 voice actors took part as the chorus to create the extravagant “GO!!! ～15th Anniversary ver.〜”.
Each of the following songs feature writing credits by each member. “Go! Go! Drinkers” is KOHSHI’s first time writing music, bringing together alcohol-drinking people all over the world. This is a very KOHSHI-like song, who, has a certification as a Tequila Maestro.
The third song, written by bassist GOT’S, is titled “Himitsu no Sakusen”. The song starts with an up-tempo rhythm and features a verbally-packed super-fast rap designed to excite the audience during a live performance.
The fourth song is written by TAKE, titled “Climb On”. Featuring a melody with a groovy shuffle beat and rap, the theme is TAKE’s hobby “climbing”, which was also a hot topic when TAKE appeared on the TV program “Ariyoshi Hanseikai”. The lyrics mirror his thoughts about the band, hoping that they “continue to aim high and above and keep climbing”.
The fifth song, written by IWASAKI, is titled “Bet or Dead”, featuring IWASAKI’s powerful drums and exciting guitar work coming together to make it a real “mens’ rock” song.
The last song, “Tabi no tochu”, marks KEIGO’s first time writing music. It is the album’s only ballad, and ends the album with a gentle song, closing with anticipation of the band’s future.
Multiple genres and the unique DNA of each member of FLOW come together to create an album made with the strength of their 15 years together.
The first-press limited-edition CD/DVD includes the music video for “GO!!! ～15th Anniversary ver.～”, and a documentary video of FLOW’s recording sessions. The music video is based on FLOW’s 15 year history and also features cameos by the 11 voice actors who took part as the chorus.
FLOW Fighting Dreamers is on sale June 28.
FLOW 15th Anniversary Website: http://www.flow.mu/cam/15th
FLOW will perform live in Washington, D.C., at Otakon® on August 12: https://www.otakon.com/concerts/anisong
Fighting Dreamers
TRACKLISTING:
1. GO!!! ～15th Anniversary ver.～
2. Go! Go! Drinkers [Music・Lyrics KOHSHI]
3. Himitsu no Sakusen [Music・Lyrics GOT’S]
4. Climb On [Music・Lyrics TAKE]
5. Bet or Dead [Music・Lyrics IWASAKI]
6. Tabi no Tochu [Music・Lyrics KEIGO]
DVD (First press limited edition only)
“GO!!! ～15th Anniversary ver.～” Music Video
Documentary/making-of Fighting Dreamers video
“GO!!! ～15th Anniversary ver.～” features:
Junko Takeuchi 「NARUTO」：as Naruto
Noriaki Sugiyama 「NARUTO」：as Sasuke
Chie Nakamura 「NARUTO」：as Sakura
Showtaro Morikubo 「NARUTO」：as Shikamaru
Jun Fukuyama「Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion」：as Lelouch Lamperouge
Yuko Sanpei 「Psalms of Planets Eureka seven」：as Renton Thurston
Kaori Nazuka 「Psalms of Planets Eureka seven」：as Eureka
Toshiki Masuda 「Samurai Flamenco」：as Masayoshi Hazama
Yuki Kaji 「The Seven Deadly Sins」：as Meliodas
Toshiyuki Toyonaga 「Durarara!! x2 Ketsu」：as Mikado Ryugamine
Kisho Taniyama cameo appearance
Hacktivist Releases Video for "2 ROTTEN"
Hacktivist have announced that Jot Maxi will be joining the band as their new vocalist, following the departure of Ben Marvin. The new lead singer has made his debut in the band's new track and video "2 Rotten" in which fans can pick up to where the band left off. Check it HERE.
Surfer Blood Releases Video for "Taking Care of Eddy"
Surfer Blood has released a new animated inspired video for "Taking Care of Eddy". Check it out right HERE.
DC Super Hero Girls Turn Lego!
DC Super Hero Girls has released webisodes of the Lego kind! Yes you read right, Lego has teamed up with the DC Super Hero Girls to release a series of webisodes! Check them all out over HERE.
GWAR INVADES YOUR COMIC SHOP JUNE 7 SIGNINGS AND EXCLUSIVES GALORE!
ON JUNE 7th GWAR invades comic book stores worldwide with their new 4 issue comic book series GWAR: ORGASMAGEDDON from Dynamite Comics! Brought to life by shock rock legends GWAR, writer Matt Miner (Toe Tag Riot, Critical Hit), artist Jonathan Brandon Sawyer (Welcome Back, Critical Hit), colorist Marissa Louise (RoboCop, Escape from New York), letterer Taylor Esposito (Batman Eternal, Red Hood and the Outlaws) and editor Brendan Wright (Archie vs. Predator, Grindhouse: Doors Open at Midnight), this highly-anticipated series is sure to delight with violence, fun, and absurdity.
Having drenched the music and film world in gore, humor, and political/social satire for 30 years, GWAR's coming for your comic books and it's gonna be a bloody good time! Do you need to be a GWAR fan to love this series? No way!
"You already love bonkers fun comics about dinosaurs, giant robots, monsters, aliens, and enough blood spew to drown drown a small nation anyways, so you're gonna love the GWAR book. It's written as a perfect jumping-on point for people unfamiliar with the band, but still has enough juicy tidbits to make the die-hard fans go 'oh yeah, I remember that awesome thing!'" says series co-writer Matt Miner.
Find your local comic book store at www.comicshoplocator.com and make sure to hit them up on June 7 to pick up the first issue.
SIGNING TOUR! Come getcha stuff signed and meet some folks!
June 7: GWAR comic release/signing party at 2nd & Charles in Richmond, VA. Meet GWAR live and in-costume and co-writer Matt Miner! Don’t miss this!
June 7: Series artist Jonathan Brandon Sawyer signs GWAR #1 at Sanctum Tattoos & Comics in Birmingham, AL.
June 7: Artist Ally Cat signs her exclusive cover at Brave New Worlds in Philadelphia, PA.
June 7: Backup/Cover artist Scott Wygmans signs copies at Green Brain Comics in Detroit, MI.
June 8: Meet Bonesnapper, Sawborg, and Beefcake plus series co-writer Matt Miner at Third Eye Comics in Annapolis, MD. Giveaways, GWAR costume contest, and more!
June 9: Backup/Cover artist Scott Wygmans signs copies at Vault of Midnight in Grand Rapids, MI.
June 10: Meet GWAR’s Sleazy P. Martini and series co-writer Matt Miner at Black Cat Comics in Salt Lake City, UT. Black Cat’s 13th anniversary party with sales, giveaways and more!
June 14: Cover artist Dave Fox signs his exclusive cover for Royal Collectibles in Queens, NY, along with series co-writer Matt Miner.
June 17: Cover artist Sean Von Gorman signs his exclusive cover for East Side Mags in Montclair, NJ, along with series letterer Taylor Esposito and co-writer Matt Miner.
June 24: Series co-writer Matt Miner signs at Coast City Comics in Portland, ME. Afterparty with bands to follow!
July 5: GWAR’s Sexecutioner and series co-writer Matt Miner celebrate the release of issue 2 at ZAPP Comics in Wayne, NJ – details TBD
July 7-8: GWAR’s Sexecutioner and Sleazy P. Martini join series co-writer Matt Miner at VA ComiCon, in Richmond, VA! Come get your comics signed! Buy our stuff!
July 15: Series co-writer Matt Miner signs at Comic Book Jones in Staten Island, NY – details TBD
August 2: Series co-writer Matt Miner signs issue 3 at JHU Comic Books in New York City – details TBD
LIMITED EDITION EXCLUSIVE COVERS! A handful of stores and conventions have special limited edition covers that you can't get ANYWHERE ELSE. These rare covers are bound to sell out quickly, so get on it!
Stages Releases Video For New Single "Therapy"
Florida metalcore outfit Stages is back to unleashing new music onto the masses. After their label debut last year, the band kept writing new material and have just released the music video for "Therapy." The song is the lead single off their forthcoming Crisis EP that will be released in the fall.
"Music and this business is a therapy to my bandmates and myself. It is an escape from reality. Every time we get on a stage, play our music, hangout in general, it is therapy. This song also portrays the choice we are given as people to believe in god or whatever you want. And we don't judge you for that just because we have our beliefs. We appreciate anyone who can bop their head to this track. We are stoked to release our sophomore EP 'Crisis' this Fall.” - Aaron Berkshire (Vocalist)
Check out the video for yourselves HERE.
Droids Attack Announce New Tour
Heavy Metal Band Droids Attack have announced their 17 date North American Tour in support of their February 2017 released LP, Sci-Fi Or Die. Launching June 16th in Des Moines, IA and winds through the band's first West Coast run, finishing up July 3rd in Chicago, IL, with Sweeper joining them on about half of the dates.
TOUR DATES:
06/16 @Des moines Social Club - Des moines, IA
06/17 @ Oleavers - Omaha, NE
06/18 @ Co- Bar Bar - Denver, CO
06/19 @ The Filling Station - Bozeman, MT
06/20 @ The Pin - Spokane, WA
06/21 @ Substation - Seattle, WA
06/22 @ High Water Mark - Portland, OR
06/23 @ Little Red Lion - Eureka, CA
06/24 @ Starlite Lounge - Sacramento, CA
06/25 @ Viper Room - Los Angeles, CA
06/26 @ Beauty Bar - Las Vegas, NV
06/27 @ Yucca Taproom - Tempe, AZ
06/29 @ Goldbar - San Antonio, TX
06/30 @ Swan Dive - Austin, TX
07/01 @ Blue Note Lounge - Oklahoma City, OK
07/02 @ Fubar - St Louis, MO
07/03 @ Township - Chicago, IL
VENOM INC Venom Inc Announces the "Blood Stained Earth Headline Tour"
VENOM INC have announced their upcoming Blood Stained Earth Tour, featuring support from extreme metal giants Goatwhore and Toxic Holocaust, as well as fast-rising death metal group The Convalescence. The tour will kick off in Philadelphia, PA on September 1 and visit several major cities in both the U.S. and Canada, coming to a close in Baltimore, MD on October 2.
VENOM INC frontman Tony Dolan says, "It is with the greatest pleasure that we announce our 2017 North American Blood Stained Earth Tour! With a brand new set, we cannot wait to see our North American fans - old, loyal and new. With our brothers Goatwhore, Toxic Holocaust and The Convalescence, we give you a package that will leave you full of the best metal any tour can produce! Don't miss it, I promise you'll regret it. ALL HAIL NORTH AMERICA. AVE!"
TOUR DATES:
Sep. 01 - Philadelphia, PA @ Voltage
Sep. 02 - New York, NY @ Gramercy Theater
Sep. 03 - Boston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall
Sep. 04 - Montreal, QC @ Les Foufounes Electriques
Sep. 05 - Toronto, ON @ Mod Club
Sep. 07 - Cleveland, OH @ Agora Ballroom
Sep. 08 - Chicago, IL @ Reggies
Sep. 09 - Cave In Rock, IL @ Full Terror Metal Fest
Sep. 10 - Kansas City, MO @ Riot Room
Sep. 11 - Denver, CO @ Marquis Theater
Sep. 13 - Spokane, WA @ The Pin
Sep. 14 - Seattle, WA @ Studio 7
Sep. 15 - Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theater
Sep. 16 - Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theater
Sep. 18 - San Francisco, CA @ Slims
Sep. 19 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy Theatre
Sep. 20 - San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick
Sep. 21 - Phoenix, AZ @ Club Red
Sep. 22 - El Paso, TX @ Tricky Falls
Sep. 23 - Dallas, TX @ Gas Monkey
Sep. 24 - Austin, TX @ Grizzly Hall
Sep. 25 - Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall
Sep. 26 - New Orleans, LA @ Parish at HOB
Sep. 28 - Miami, FL @ Churchill's
Sep. 29 - Tampa, FL @ Orpheum
Sep. 30 - Orlando, FL @ The Haven
Oct. 01 - Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
Oct. 02 - Baltimore, MD @ Soundstage
Oct. 03 - Special VENOM INC Bash
Oct. 04 - Special VENOM INC Bash
Music Freelancer's Joe Discusses How and Where Musicians Meet
Music Freelancer is a new way for artists and bands to connect and work together! Find the newest and latest in music, look for work, make friends, and enjoy music! Co-founder, lead developer and designer of the site, Joe Viwat discusses what this site can do for artists and bands alike and how they can connect in all sorts of ways!
1. Introduce yourself, tell me what you do for the website Music Freelancer and how long has the website been around?
Hi I’m Joe Viwat and I’m Co-founder lead dev design of the site. The website had been around since 2012 but through constant design changes we are now in version 2.1 and public launch in January at the Namm show 2017. We want to make this site as easy and full of content as possible so it took a while.
2. Who can join the Music Freelancer website, what does this website have to offer?
The cool thing about MusicFreelancer is that ANYONE from amateurs to veterans can all join. You can be a guitarist, recording engineer, video editor, booking manager, stage crew, media lawyer etc… The point we want to make is that this is a world of entertainment and media straight to your computer. We put everything into one site like become a star, sell/buy songs, find jobs, post jobs, music contest, classified ads, find musicians, gig search, post gig location etc.
3. How does this website stand out above all the others out there, what makes this one, "the one".
We know there are many “find work” website out there but most cater to general work and professional meeting professional only. What about the rest? This is what we aim for. Targeting the 98% general that need connection and work. We are an all-in-one platform for and directly to the entertainment industry. Other site requires interview and resume submission but we really believe in talents over interview. This bring us to our bid system. User just bid and get the job on the spot.
4. How did the idea for Music Freelancer come about, why was this website made in the first place?
The idea came through experiences working in the industry. Seeing colleagues loosing jobs and students paying through music and film schools, to come out in depth and no work is truly saddening. This is why our main mission is to help everyone break that cycle. Technology is available so lets use it as a tool.
5. Why go with the name Music Freelancer, what does this name represent and symbolize for this website?
At first we thought of this site for only musicians looking for jobs but we then realize the whole industry need help and not only music. We stick with the name cause it easy to remember and direct.
6. Who is in charge of this website, who runs the show if you will.
The cool thing about the company is that since we are small,everyone is helping in a big way. There is no person in charge. Everyone have each other back and catch one another during the steep journey up the mountain.
7. Does this website cost money whatsoever to join or do any activity whatsoever on it?
There is definitely activities in the site. User can join for free. We want user to try out the site and actually find work and make money first. If they like it then they can continue with our extremely low monthly plan.
8. Where can we find out about this website and stay up to date on all it has to offer?
You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
9. What should people and other sources labels, zines, promoters, know about this website, why should they be interested in it?
Good question, I think labels and promoters will find this site to be the database house of raw untap talents. Not only they can find talents in the US, the possibility of global connection of all artists is there to connect. Everyone wins and enjoy the benefits. Artists received opportunity to work and labels, promoters and zine can have endless selection of talents.
10. Where do you see this website in the next 5 or even 10 years from now, what do you hope for it to achieve?
I see this site as a life changing platform for most people. This can be the social network for musicians and filmmakers. We want to create events that help talents worldwide to be able to show them selves to the world. The world is changing and more people will be able to finally access the web. This is the perfect timing for us to capture that change.
11. What does this next year hold for Music Freelancer?
We are currently trying to marketing the site like crazy in any ways possible. We currently are partnering with the Los Angeles School district to implement our program to every college and high school state wide so that is a huge push for us.
12. Is there anything else that you would like to let everyone know about this website and what you are trying to do?
Yes, if you know any musicians, filmmakers or any talents out there that are lost then tell them to head over to MusicFreelancer. Enter promo code “Music” to get one year free and start working.
Blood On The Dance Floor Releases Sequel to "Bewitched" with "Love Like VooDoo"
Blood On The Dance Floor has returned with all new music, new member, and a new track called "Love Like VooDoo" a sequel to their timeless classic "Bewitched". Check out the lyrical video right over HERE.
Colossal Street Jam Releases New Album "Living Free" and New Video for "I Can't Take It"
New Jersey based, Bluesy, 70s influenced Rock Band Colossal Street Jam has released their newest LP, Living Free, an 11 track album invoking such classic sounds as Bad Company and Grand Funk Railroad. Produced by Tony Tee Lewis, Living Free is out NOW!
At the end of the day, no matter what is going on, we did this for us. In the old days, we did this to be famous, to make money, and to be rock stars. Now, we’re doing this for us, and I think that’s why it’s working and getting a great response. - Colossal Street Jam
Go pick up the new album right HERE. Check out their new video for "I Can't Take It" over HERE.
Insatia Announce Upcoming Sophomore Album "Phoenix Aflame"
American/Canadian Power Metal band Insatia has announced the release of Phoenix Aflame, the highly anticipated follow up to their 2013 Asylum Denied. Produced by Fabio D'Amore (Serenity) and his partner Ivan Moni Bidin (Starsick System, Pathosray, Last Warning), Phoenix Aflame is due to release June 23rd via Pitch Black Records.
"It's really a more interesting power metal scene in North America than I think most people are aware of, and it's nice to contribute to it with this album that pays homage to the immense history of a genre that's historically thrived in Europe." - Zoe Federoff
1. Intro (Land Of The Living)
2. Act Of Mercy
3. Memory Of A Sapphire
4. Sacred
5. We Are The Grey
6. Phoenix Aflame
7. Not My God
8. Captor And Captive
9. Velvet Road
10. Healer Of Hatred
Go grab a pre-order HERE.
De Profundis Releases New Song "An Orgy of Grostesqueries"
De Profundis has released a new song in the form of a lyrical video. It is called "An Orgy of Grostesqueries". Check it over HERE.
Yousei Teikoku Announces Tarot Card Exclusives for 20th Anniversary Single
Japanese gothic metal band YOUSEI TEIKOKU has announced a series of stunning, limited-edition “tarot cards” for fans who purchase their 20th anniversary single, flamma idola, at selected stores in Japan.
Store details on the Lantis official website (Japanese):
http://lantis.jp/artist/dasfeenreich/news_1495069200.html
The band revealed the mysterious cover art for flamma idola earlier this month, depicting a beautiful but strangely-transformed portrait of YOUSEI TEIKOKU’s lead singer, Empress Yui.
The leader of the Fairy Empire cryptically explained, “Humans adore dolls, dolls adore humans. This deep, hidden longing to transform each other’s essence has persisted since ancient times. Elevating our existence to become both human and doll is our goal with the image of this CD. True subjects of the Fairy Empire will sense the message of the clothing and design displayed herein.”
YOUSEI TEIKOKU returns to the United States for Anisong World Matsuri at Otakon® in Washington, D.C, on August 12.
https://www.otakon.com/concerts/anisong/
YOUSEI TEIKOKU
flamma idola
Rel. 05.31.2017
TRACKLISTING:
1. flamma idola
2. Veludo Papilio
3. Naikan Uchu Shisha no Yurikago
4. flamma idola (Instrumental)
5. Veludo Papilio (Instrumental)
6. Naikan Uchu Shisha no Yurikago (Instrumental)
VIDEO Preview:
https://youtu.be/NXKCNy0Y7wE
YOUSEI TEIKOKU on iTunes (USA):
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/yousei-teikoku/id266647368
Jyrki 69 Releases Video for "Last Halloween"
Jyrki 69 of The 69 Eyes has released a new video for a song called "Last Halloween" off his debut solo efforts titled "Helsinki Vampire". Check out the new song turned video right HERE.
The Weight Of Silence Cover Big Boi's "Shutterbugg" With New Video
Australian metalcore quartet The Weight Of Silence has released their new rap cover from Big Boi's (Outkast) single "Shutterbugg" with a new music video.
Vocalist, Jacob Pedersen commented on why the band choose this cover saying, "We've been quite influenced by hip-hop whilst writing the the new record and we decided that, a classic hip-hop cover would be the perfect bridge or transition into the newer sound we're writing. We're very excited about the release of "Shutterbugg" but, what's to come soon after is what we're most excited for."
While the band proves their love for hip-hop, they also claim a new shift in their modern metalcore sound, incorporating a range of styles from hip-hop to deathcore, which hints at a new direction for their upcoming sophomore release.
Check it out over HERE.
Guns N Roses Announces New Tour
Guns N' Roses have announced a new set of tours, for their continued reunion run of shows! The new set of dates can be found below with a number of openers popping up at the various dates, find out whom and where right HERE.
TOUR DATES:
October 8, 2017 – Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center
October 11, 2017 – New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
October 15, 2017 – New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
October 22, 2017 – Boston, MA TD @ Garden
October 26, 2017 – Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena
October 29, 2017 – Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre
November 2, 2017 – Detroit, MI @ Little Caesers Arena
November 6, 2017 – Chicago, IL @ United Center
November 10, 2017 – Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
November 14, 2017 – Tulsa, OK @ BOK Center
November 17, 2017 – Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
November 21, 2017 – Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena
November 24, 2017 – Los Angeles, CA @ Staples Center
November 25, 2017 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum
Cannonball Statman is a Freak of the Folk
Cannonball Statman has been described as the music freak folk by observers. But he is so much more than that, he is tall for one thing, with hair that has a life of it's own. If that is not enough he own's an old battered acoustic guitar, he keeps close to him at all costs. Plus he is visually and aurally completely yet utterly unique. In fact, Cannonball Statman himself discusses his ways with music and the plans he has with it.
1. Can you give me a brief summary as to why you wanted a career in music?
I had a lot of passion for baseball until I was about 8 years old; I played on a Little League team in Brooklyn, and was considered one of the best in my league, which I didn't like at all, because it led to a lot of expectations and attention that I wasn't looking for. Around that time, I decided to quit baseball, start writing songs, singing, teaching myself to play guitar and drums, and recording my songs into a cassette recorder. I was playing in bands, recording and releasing my own albums, and performing small gigs by the time I was 9, and I’ve been a musician ever since; I started touring regularly in the US and abroad in late 2013, around my 20th birthday, and that's my main source of income at the moment. I think being a musician gives me a lot more creative freedom than being an athlete would've, and that's important to me.
2. Why was Cannonball Statman chosen as the namesake for this band?
Cannonball Statman was the name of my childhood dog. He and his nephew Apollo feature extensively in the music video for my song “Manhattan, I am a Sheep”; they’re two of the sweetest dogs in the world, and they’re full of personality and spontaneity. Apollo is a chocolate lab, and Cannonball was a black lab. For a couple months in 2012, my left hand was out of commission, due to a sleepwalking accident involving a large kitchen knife, and I had to start writing songs in an alternate tuning in order to play guitar while my hand wasn’t working properly; by the time my hand healed, I'd adopted a completely different approach to making music, so I decided to change my stage name. Because my music became a lot more primal, raw, and percussive after my injury, and a lot of animals were coming up in my lyrics, my dog’s name seemed like a good fit. I've been writing, recording, and performing as Cannonball Statman ever since, and there are a few dozen Cannonball Statman albums and EPs floating around now; some are online, and some are only available on CD or cassette. Cannonball (the dog) died the night before I recorded “Cackles”, so I was in a sad state when I recorded that one. Apollo and I are still grieving, but we’re also happy Cannonball lived such a great, long, and full life.
3. What has influenced your sound and style?
Collaborating with other musicians always opens me up to a lot of new musical ideas, but for my own songs, my main influence is whatever’s around me; there are stories everywhere, and each story has its own sound. Coming of age in New York City in the years after 9/11, watching my neighborhood in Brooklyn and the rest of the city go through all the stages of gentrification over the course of a couple decades, and traveling around the world to perform and make art in the early 21st century, have all been really influential to me.
4. What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)
Societal dysfunction (and dysfunction, in general), comes up a lot in my songs. Interpersonal conflict, metaphysics, forms of entrapment, and love also all come up a lot. All my lyrics are based on things I've experienced; some use more metaphor and symbolism, some are more literal and direct.
5. Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)
The writing process is different for every song, and that's part of why making music is so exciting for me. Some songs come out very quickly; I'm playing a few chords on the guitar and humming a melody, and five minutes later, I have the whole song. Normally, it takes a few days, and it can even take years. Each one of my songs tells its own story, and when I'm writing a song, the telling of that story is my main focus.6. How do you describe your music to people?
It involves a lot of screaming, a lot of singing, a lot of jumping and running around, a lot of fast and a lot of slow, a lot of words, some audience participation, and a lot of fun. Some people have said I'm the “king” or “prince” of the NYC anti-folk movement, and I still don't know what that means, but I take it as a compliment.
7. Can you describe your guitar technique and how you came to choose this instrument as your main outlet for music making.
I play a lot of different instruments, but the acoustic guitar and voice combination works really well for the music I make as Cannonball Statman; it’s loud enough that I can play large clubs with it, it's portable and simple enough that I can perform on the street with it, and it has enough range that I can play full shows without a band. I do play with a full band sometimes, but I like to tour as a solo act. A lot of people tell me my guitar technique reminds them of punk, or metal, and both of those make sense to me; there's a lot of anger and energy, and a lot of technical playing and shredding. My technique’s also very percussive, and being a solo act, I try to get the most range of sound out of my guitar as possible.
8. What's your take on the EP "Cackles" as a whole?
It's a continuation of (and a huge departure from) “Hummingcone”, which I recorded on cassette in Oaxaca City, Mexico last winter, and is also available online. I was on tour in the US and Europe for the first four months of this year, and wrote a lot of songs, including the four songs that became “Cackles”, during that tour. My friend Mikado, from the German band PrunX, set up some free recording time for me at Culture Container in Berlin while I was touring Germany in March, and three other bands were planning to record that night; there was a terrible rainstorm, and I was the only one who showed up, so the engineer Franz Rodeck and I had the whole studio to ourselves for a few hours, and we actually recorded the whole EP in less than an hour. Franz had a lot of stories about living in Berlin for several decades, and touring around Europe with various projects; wonderful guy. Torsten, the bassist from PrunX (and also a really wonderful guy), lent me his homemade computer to mix and master the EP, and cooked some great meals for me while I was in Berlin. Back in Brooklyn, my friend Brian Kelly designed the album cover, and German Shepherd Records put the release together in Salford, England.
9. Can you tell me a little bit about it, what can we expect from it?
I wrote most of “Cackles” in crowded, disorienting bus stations around Europe, and while the last track (“ZOB”) is the only song that actually takes place in a bus station, the whole EP could easily be a trip through the mind of someone waiting for a bus. And that’s going to be a very active mind.
10. What is your favorite song on the EP and why?
I try to avoid judging my own work after it's finished. The whole experience of creating something is a real challenge, and it can be any combination of traumatizing and thrilling; once I've decided it's ready to be released, I don't think it's up to me to judge the quality of it. To me, each song on “Cackles” also has a distinct mood, and whether I enjoy them or not depends on my own mood. “Ailing in Leipzig” is a paranoid, apocalyptic song, inspired by some experiences I've had in the US and Europe in the past year. “Orbiting the Pacific” is a poem about the romanticization of what’s often called “the third world”, set to music. “Rabbit” is almost a love song. “ZOB” is hectic and absurd.
11. Would you say that this EP is your best work to date?
I don't know, but I was really happy with how it came out.
12. How would you say you differ from other bands and artists on the scene?
It can take bands and artists several years (or even longer) to find their own voice and artistic identity. I'm really lucky, because I was so young when I made the decision to become a musician, and even though I turned 23 last fall, I've had over a decade to put myself together. That's part of why I spend a lot of time helping other artists on the scene. I also think it's particularly important for us to collectivize and help each other out now, because in spite (and partly because) of the Internet, the art world is becoming more exclusive and incestuous, and a lot of talented, hard working artists I know and care about can barely afford to eat, much less make a significant contribution to culture, for reasons completely beyond their control.
13. What does next year hold for you?
This summer, I'll be touring around the southern US with fellow NYC native Caroline Cotto, which is a real treat for both of us, because we’ve been stuck on opposite sides of the Atlantic at all times for a couple years, and we had a great time recording Caroline’s debut EP “Devil in Me” up in the Catskill mountains together (I played drums) last time we were on the same continent. This fall, I'm heading out on another European tour, and this one’s going to be even longer than the last one; I'm planning to stay on that side of the ocean until next summer, taking some extra time to record the next album, and hibernate in Transylvania with a green-haired hitchhiker I met in a bus station in Vienna.
14. Describe yourself in three words.
A human labradoodle.
15. Is that your final answer?
Not until my larynx implodes.
Beartooth Releases Video for "Sick Of Me"
Beartooth is pleased and proud to share the official video for their single ‘Sick Of Me.’ Directed by Marc Klasfeld (Twenty One Pilots, Fun., Katy Perry), the documentary style video for ‘Sick Of Me’ follows the stories of four individuals struggling with depression and how each has channeled their energy into something positive to overcome it. “It’s rare that I am able to create a music video that allows other people to get their story across with such a positive message,” notes Klasfeld. “I really hope it can help anyone afflicted with depression in some way.”
Frontman Caleb Shomo comments on his own battle with the disease, “Depression and anxiety isn’t something you just get away from. It’s just inside you. For me it’s just always in my brain churning. It’s about fighting it and overcoming it, you can’t run away from it. You have to deal with it. This song is a big way to help. At least for me, music has been implanted in my body and what I’ve connected with. When I go on stage everything goes away. If you can choose that you will not let depression and anxiety run your life, you’re going to make it. It’s your body and your life and your choice.”
To further spread the message of mental health awareness, Beartooth have launched a new line of ‘Sick Of Me’ t-shirts on their webstore HERE, and all proceeds will be donated directly to the National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) over HERE.
Check out the documentary and video HERE.
Beachwood Coyotes Releases New Song "Face To Face"
Beachwood Coyotes has released a new song called "Face To Face". The song comes with quite the tale to tell though. Jason is tripping in Hollywood at 2AM. Having just taken acid for the first time, he navigates through a vortex of geometric displays comprising the essence of life before deciding he simply must go on a night hike up the Beachwood Canyon trail to the iconic Hollywood sign. The band Jason has played guitar in since age 16 has just broken up after years of cross-country tours, and he suddenly faces an uncertain future. Unfortunately for Jason, as he approaches the trailhead he spots a group of coyotes heading down towards him. Have you ever seen coyotes on acid? They’re scary as hell. Jason retreats back to his apartment, wallowing in disappointment at another lost opportunity.
He discovers the next morning that three decapitated bodies were discovered on that very same trail, victims of an apparent gang hit. Time of death? The exact same time he was scared away. Did those beachwood coyotes save his life? You bet they did.
Suddenly songs start pouring out of Jason, years and years of relentless touring providing fertile subject matter for songs about the loneliness of life on the road and the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles. After bringing the hard-hitting rhythm section of bassist Drew Smith and drummer Bryan King on board along with Canadian guitar phenom Yan Clermont, Beachwood Coyotes is born.
The band retreats to a dark practice space and writes loud powerful songs with catchy beats and reckless melodic pop abandon. They design a DIY light show and pour every ounce of their energy into their live shows. The packed gigs feature frequent stage diving and impromptu in-crowd performances, that quickly gain the attention of Los Angeles tastemaker station KROQ.
Their upcoming EP, entitled "Scrubby" is produced by Austen Moret. Moret's influences showed the band a world of endless sonic possibilities. He seamlessly blended samples and electronic elements into the arrangements and incorporated a variety of different influences including hip-hop, hard rock, jazz/funk and even some barbershop quartet, pushing the band's music into a whole new territory.
"Scrubby" has been deemed a metaphor of the bands journey so far. "Thematically, the EP deals with growth and overcoming obstacles that have been placed in your way, as well as questioning and rejecting things that you may have taken for granted in the past", reveals drummer King. "A band coming of age record, if you will".
Leading single Face to Face highlights the band’s use of infectious melodies, driving rhythm section and strong harmonic vocals, creating the ultimate indie rock anthem. Rolling My Eyes showcases the versatility of the band, with a more funky electronic/hip-hop sound and socially conscious lyrics critiquing race relations in America. "We believe the best bands are like a melting pot of each person's styles, which together achieves something unique that you'd never be able to sit down and describe in advance", confides King.
Buoyed by a growing local fanbase and multiple successful tours throughout the western US, Beachwood Coyotes are ready for their next step in their musical endeavor. Their latest EP "Scrubby" is set be released in summer of 2017. God bless those damn coyotes.
Check out the new song HERE.
Socials:
www.beachwoodcoyotes.com
facebook.com/beachwoodcoyotes
instagram.com/beachwoodcoyotes
soundcloud.com/beachwoodcoyotes
twitter.com/beachwoodcoyote
LIV SIN says Enjoy Life, Do Yoga and Headbang!
Sweden go getter Liv "Sin" Jagrell or LIV SIN as she's now known by, was the former frontwomen for Sister Sin. Now that they have called it quits, Liv knew she had more much in her to give to her fans. Thus, LIV SIN was born which lead her to write and record for her solo debut release "Follow Me". LIV SIN herself goes into great detail about her past with Sister Sin, and her present and future as LIV SIN.
1. For those who may not know, can you give us a brief explanation as to why you are no longer involved with Sister Sin?
Of course! Sister sin was a heavily touring band and after Mayhem Fest in 2015 two of the band members felt that the joyment in touring and playing in professional band was gone , so when they left the band the two of us that were still there didn't feel like it would be the same anymore, even if we found new members. We felt it was better to stop at that point when we were still on the top. It was very sad for all of us but in the end I think it was for the best, you can't force people to play.2. Since that time is behind you, what can be said about you as of now as Liv Sin?
Well my goal is to take this band even further than Sister Sin. We are working on tours and already started to plan an make songs for next record.
3. What would you consider this project as a solo efforts in the form of an artist or in the form of a band?
Definitely as a band! Even though it has my name and of course I'm the one who started and put this together, we are all working as band , everyone contributes. I don't see myself as a solo person with hired guns, I like the band feeling!
4. Why did you go with calling it after yourself Liv Sin?
Mostly for easier pr and marketing, it was a decision I took together with my manager and my record label.
5. While your time in Sister Sin is behind you, can we expect you to perform any of their songs in your setlist mixed in with the Liv Sin works?Yes, I promise I squeeze in a couple of Sister Sin songs! I know my fans want to hear it, and it's thanks to them I can still doing this, so of course I'll give em some of the old stuff.
6. You went with "Let Me Out" as the first single off "Follow Me". Why was that, what made this song in particular stand out above the rest?
I think that song is the one that is closest to a Sister Sin song, so that's one of the reasons we choose it, the. But also it's probably the most hooky one, and the labels favorite.
7. Speaking of "Follow Me", that is the title for this album, why go with that title, does it have a meaning behind it?
No comment.
Since it is my project from the beginning we felt it's good to highlight me, and that people might recognize me from Sister Sin and get curious about the new band. And also since the title says "follow me" I started with my new band members hehe. 😉
9. What's your take on "Follow Me" as a whole?
A start of something greater that I hope a lot of people will join me in. I see music as a big healer in the world. It truly has the power to unite people.
10. How do you all balance being in a metal band with the needs of normal life?
Finding balance can be very hard anywhere and whatever you work with or do in your life. I sometimes tend to forget to live outside of music, so for me that's something I need to remind myself of. And to take some time of from time to time, switch the phone of, do some yoga, just get in to the moment. Something I think all people are in great need of.
11. What’s next for Liv Sin now that your latest record’s been released? Will you be touring or hitting any festivals?Yes we are doing festivals this summer, mostly in Sweden. Then we are planning for a longer European tour this fall.
12. Is there anything else you would like to say to the future fans of Liv Sin?
Stay metal, join us on tour, headbang a lot, enjoy life and do some yoga. 😊