March 2018
BAND-MAID'S ALTER-EGO BAND-MAIKO RELEASES VIDEO FOR "secret MAIKO lips"
JRock band Band-Maid have an alter ego called Band-Maiko, releasing a video of the song titled "secret MAIKO lips". Check it right HERE.
ONE OK ROCK RELEASES LIVE VIDEO FOR "WE ARE" AND ANNOUNCES NEW LIVE DVD RELEASE
JRock act One Ok Rock will release their new live DVD/Bluray titled "ONE OK ROCK 2017 "Ambitions" JAPAN TOUR" this summer on May 16th 2018. The band has gone on with releasing a live video of one of the tracks titled "We are", which can be seen HERE. The artwork and tracklisting can be found below with pre-orders HERE.
Ambitions -Introduction
1.Bombs away
2.ONION!3.Deeper Deeper
4.Taking Off
5.20/20
6.Cry out
7.Clock Strikes
8.Bedroom Warfare
9.69
10.Always coming back
11.Wherever you're
12.Listen
13.Instrumental
14.Bon Voyage
15.Start Again
16.I was King
17.Take what you want
18.The Beginning
19.Mighty Long Fall
20.We are
21.One Way Ticket
22.Kanzen Kankaku Dreamer
Disc2 DOCUMENTARY
At The Gates Releases New Video for "A Stare Bound In Stone"
At The Gates have released a new song called "A Stare Bound In Stone" in a video-clip created by Costin Chioreanu / Twilight 13 Media.
AT THE GATES frontman Tomas Lindberg comments on the track as follows: "For the second single release of the album we wanted this menacing stormer, fast aggressive verses, heavy chorus and an evil mantra of an ending. This, for me, depicts the desperate, urgent mood of the record. I think it could be one of the most aggressive songs we have ever written. This album is so diverse, and includes so much different elements that it is hard to boil down those essences to just one song. This song has a lot of them though, more to come soon. For the video-shoot we wanted to work with Costin on this one, as he is an essential part of this record. We felt that he knew exactly what kind of emotions we wanted to get across, and how to capture them artistically. I see this video as a brilliant complement to the song. Enjoy!"
Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/oIj6ufFSESU.
Righteous Vendetta Reveal "War Is Killing Us All" Video
Metalcore outfit RIGHTEOUS VENDETTA are excited to reveal the music video for their ferocious single, "War Is Killing Us All", taken off of their debut CENTURY MEDIA RECORDS album, "Cursed", which was released in early 2017.
The video was directed by Vince Lundi and filmed at the notorious Ohio State Reformatory, which has held some of history's most infamous criminals and has also been notably seen as the backdrop for blockbuster movies such as "The Shawshank Redemption". Much like the alleged ghosts that have been claimed to haunt the prison, RIGHTEOUS VENDETTA refuse to be silenced with their "deliberate and measured harsh vocals and growls" (Cryptic Rock) on "War Is Killing Us All".
Guitarist Justin Olmstead commented: "Everything came together perfectly for the "War Is Killing Us All" video. The song is dark and aggressive, so we wanted to go at it in a unique way that would actually capture the attitude. Capture the mentality of twisted distress and borderline insanity, while portraying that most battles are created and sustained in our own minds, ultimately attacking ourselves. Vince Lundi and the crew absolutely killed it on our POV concept, and the everyone at the Ohio State Reformatory was so cool in opening their doors and allowing us virtually free reign on sections of the prison to get the shots we needed to get. Everyone had such a great time hanging out and checking out the prison that it didn't even feel like a video shoot. Definitely an experience we will always remember."
Check out the video right HERE.
Light The Torch Releases New Lyric And Live Video for "The Safety of Disbelief"
LIGHT THE TORCH (formerly known as DEVIL YOU KNOW) released their new album "Revival" out now via Nuclear Blast Entertainment. To celebrate the album's bow, the band has shared the new song "The Safety of Disbelief", which can be seen HERE.
ADORATION DESTROYED PREMIERES VIDEO FOR “NEVER MINE REDUX”
Texas-based industrial/dark-electro act Adoration Destroyed has released a new video for their latest single, "Never Mine Redux," from their EP, "Ritual Deconstruction", that’s out now on Cleopatra Records. The song is a more somber and sultry reimagining of the original song "Never Mine" as featured on their debut EP, "Ritual Damage". Purchase the EP now at iTunes (http://apple.co/2itAS7p) and stream it at Spotify (http://spoti.fi/2iw7fCy). Check out the video for "Never Mine Redux" now at: https://youtu.be/AiHmVFitkv4.
OCEANS OF SLUMBER ANNOUNCE SUMMER TOUR WITH INSOMNIUM, ADDED TO PROGPOWER USA LINE-UP
Houston-based progressive metal outfit, OCEANS OF SLUMBER, are excited to announce they will act as direct support to Finnish melodic death metallists' INSOMNIUM on their upcoming North American tour from May 23th to June 24th 2018. The band were also recently added to the line-up for the prestigious ProgPower USA XIX Metal Festival taking place on September 6th 2018 in Atlanta, GA. A listing of all upcoming dates, including their upcoming April jaunt across Europe with Epica and Myrkur, can be found listed below!
TOUR DATES:
4/6 Nottingham, UK - Rock City #
4/7 Glasgow, UK - ABC1 #
4/8 Bristol, UK - O2 Academy #
4/10 Dublin, UK - Tivoli #
4/12 Manchester, UK - O2 Ritz #
4/13 London, UK - O2 Forum #
5/23 Cleveland, OH - Agora Ballroom &
5/24 Westland, MO - Token Lounge &
5/25 Joliet, IL - The Forge &
5/26 St. Paul, MN - Amsterdam &
5/27 Madison, WI - High Noon Saloon &
5/28 Des Moines, IA - Vaudeville Mews &
5/29 Kansas City, MO - Riot Room &
5/30 Denver, CO - Hermans Hideaway &
5/31 Salt Lake City, UT - Liquid Joe’s &
6/2 Seattle, WA - El Corazon &
6/3 Vancouver, BC - Rickshaw Theater &
6/4 Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre &
6/5 San Francisco, CA - Thee Parkside &
6/6 West Hollywood, CA - Whiskey a-Go-Go &
6/7 San Diego, CA - Brick by Brick &
6/8 Santa Ana, CA - Malones &
6/9 Tempe, AZ - Club Red &
6/11 Dallas, TX - Trees &
6/12 Houston, TX - Scout Bar &
6/13 New Orleans, LA - Southport Hall &
6/14 Winter Park, FL - The Haven &
6/15 Margate, FL - O’Malleys &
6/16 Ybor City, FL - Crowbar &
6/17 Chapel Hill, NC - Local 506 &
6/18 Halethorpe, MD - Fish Head Cantina &
6/19 Philadelphia, PA - Voltage Lounge &
6/20 Montreal, QC - Foufounes &
6/21 Quebec City, QC - L’Anti &
6/22 Toronto, ON - Garrison &
6/23 New York, NY - Gramercy Theatre &
6/24 Worcester, MA - Palladium &
9/6 Atlanta, GA - ProgPower USA XIX Metal Fest
# With Epica and Mrykur
& with Insomnium
GALACTIC EMPIRE ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM AND RELEASES NEW SONG "SCHERZO FOR X-WINGS"
Star Wars-themed, progressive instrumental band Galactic Empire have announced their new album "Episode II". The album is out, appropriately so, on May the Fourth via Rise Records. The album, which follows the band's self-titled debut, is available for pre-order HERE. Check out the album's artwork and tracklisting below.
"While our debut allowed us to bring a new perspective to much-loved anthems, our latest technological terror is a darker, heavier, and far more epic testament to the true power of the Dark Side of the Force," said Galactic Empire. "We are confident that any rebel strongholds that remain after the last cycle will soon bow before the Empire. There will be no one to stop us this time."
TRACK LISTING:1. March of the Resistance
2. Scherzo for X-Wings
3. Hyperspace
4. The Droid Invasion and the Appearance of Darth Maul
5. Kylo Ren Arrives at the Battle
6. Love Pledge and The Arena
7. Rey's Theme
8. The Departure of Boba Fett
9. The Emperor
10. Into The Trap
11. The Battle of Yavin (Launch from the Fourth Moon)
To herald the release of the new album, the band has dropped the new track "Scherzo for X-Wings." Listen HERE.
BLOODSHOT DAWN RELEASE VIDEO FOR "SHACKLED"
U.K. groove death metallers BLOODSHOT DAWN are breaking out from being "Shackled" in their new music video.
The band comments: "The video was filmed and recorded during our January tour by our friend Paul McGuire! This is what you can expect to see at the shows and this song is going to start the pit!
Check out the video at the following link: https://youtu.be/W79nOt56zq0.
Accursed Spawn Announces Signing, New Album Underway And Releases New Song "Bhopal ’84"
Founded in Ottawa in 2010 with a singular purpose to transform raw aggression into music, ACCURSED SPAWN mixes influences from old and new forms of extreme metal, resulting to date in a renowned energetic live show, and a handful of recorded songs.
Announcing their signing to PRC Music, ACCURSED SPAWN will be unleashing their debut full length "The Virulent Host" next year in 2019. With a unique sound and style that stands apart from the crowd, the full length is the next step in the band's evolution of musical expression to follows a mix of demos and EP's since 2010.
"We’re incredibly excited to officially call ourselves part of the PRC family! We couldn’t have found a better partner to release The Virulent Host with, and look forward to unleashing this beast upon the world with the help of Rémi and the team at PRC!" says drummer Jay Cross.
"The Virulent Host" is a fiery and passionate take on modern death metal, influenced by thrash and brutal death that stands head and shoulders above many of their contemporaries. The production quality truly stands among the titans of death metal, thanks to Chris Donaldson, guitarist for legendary death metal unit Cryptopsy applying his talents and experience to mix and master the album at The Grid Studios in Montreal, QC. Donaldson has previously worked on records for high profile names such as Cryptopsy, Beyond Creation, Despised Icon, The Agonist, Beneath The Massacre, and Neuraxis. Artwork was done by highly esteemed artist Remy Cooper of Headsplit Design (Origin, Beyond Creation, Psycroptic, Pig Destroyer, Whitechapel, Thy Art Is Murder, Cryptopsy, Suicide Silence, Arch Enemy).
As fans will need to wait till next year for the release of "The Virulent Host", ACCURSED SPAWN will not let them wait too long to hear the first single off the debut. Partnering up with Decibel Magazine, the band is premiering "Bhopal '84", one of nine songs planned to assault fans off the album.
"We want to offer an intense, yet rewarding listening experience for both musicians and non-musicians alike. Fast, dextrous playing coupled with subtly melodic compositions that can be enjoyed by both the trained and untrained ear. Out first single "Bhopal '84" will give a good deal of insight into what people can expect from this record: it kicks off with blistering guitar and drum work, jumps into a catchy verse, and presents a very slamming bridge near the end of the song, followed by tasty solo work. It has a nice "Suffocation meets Cryptopsy" feel but is still uniquely Accursed Spawn." adds guitarist Adam Pell.
Listen to "Bhopal '84" at https://www.decibelmagazine.com/2018/03/30/track-premiere-accursed-spawn-bhopal-84/.
Modern Maps Gets Signed, Announces New Album "Hope You're Happy" And Releases New Visual Video for "Nightfall"
Modern Maps have released their newest music video for "Nightfall". The track is the band's first single off of their new album, "Hope You're Happy". Modern Maps have also joined the Rise Records family. "Hope You're Happy" is set to be released June 1, 2018. Pre-order the album HERE and check out the video right HERE.
Story Of The Year Welcomes Back Bassist Adam Russell!
Story Of The Year have dealt with line-up changes, releasing music, touring, playing shows, etc. They have shared the most recent news, announcing the return of their original bassist Adam Russel, by giving the following statement on their Facebook page:
"We’d like to begin by apologizing for having kept you in the dark recently as significant changes unfolded within Story of the Year. Like any long-term relationship split, there's much more back-story than can be communicated through a few social media posts. With that in mind, we felt a short, to the point statement was the best way to share the news. But given our incredible fifteen year history with you, our fans, we realize you deserve more.
A band is a unique type of relationship. It’s a sort of family business/marriage hybrid—a marriage of creative, passionate, complex individuals. Like many relationships, it can be a rollercoaster of experiences, emotions, challenges, wins, losses, regrets, resentments, fights, reconciliations, the whole nine yards. And through it all, over time, things change. Circumstances change. Relationships change—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. And sometimes change means making significant and incredibly difficult decisions.
Let us assure you, this was not a decision made in haste. Rather, it was made after exhaustive deliberation and reflection over a long period of time. Difficult as it may be to understand from the outside, we respectfully ask for your trust that this change is truly best for everyone involved. With that said, we are incredibly excited to welcome back our original bass player and root beer enthusiast, Adam “The Motherfuckin Skull” Russell!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your for patience, understanding, and years of unwavering support. See you soon!
Love,
Story Of The Year"
Demonic Resurrection Announces New Tour
Arguably India's biggest band Demonic Resurrection have recently announced a massive tour of the U.K. with special guests Wretched Soul. Also for this tour Arran McSporran and Shoi Sen from UK metallers De Profundis will be joining the DR line-up on bass and lead guitar respectively.
The band adds, "It's been 4 years since we've played in the UK and we couldn't be happier to return. We toured with De Profundis (and Onslaught) last time around and we became good friends with all of them. With the current line-up of the band it made the most sense to call upon our friends Shoi and Arran to fill in the empty bass and lead guitar spots, they are both stellar musicians and with their experience you know that Demonic Resurrection is going to deliver the goods. We look forward to seeing all our fans at the shows."
TOUR DATES:
10.05.18 - Green Door Store, Brighton
11.05.18 - The Swan, Ipswitch
12.05.18 - TBC (If you know a guy, then call us)
13.05.18 - Incineration Festival, London
14.05.18 - The Junction, Plymouth
16.05.18 - Star & Garter, Manchester
17.05.18 - Nice N Sleazy, Glasgow
18.05.18 - The Hammer & The Anvil, Birmingham
19.05.18 - Eradication Festival, Cardiff
20.05.18 - Anvil Rockbar, Bournemouth
Volster Releases New Single And Video for "Perfect Storm"
Swedish melodic hard rock band, VOLSTER (feat. ex-members of Masquerade and House Of Heavy) have released a new single & music video for 'Perfect Storm', it's the title track of their forthcoming album, out on April 20th via Rock Of Angels Records. The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/WRWylMWF8zg.
ALBERT HAMMOND JR SHARES OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR SINGLE ‘SET TO ATTACK’
Albert Hammond Jr. has shared the official video for the single "Set To Attack." Shot in Athens, Ohio, the video was directed by Carley Solether and is a coming of age tale that follows two teens embarking on a new romance. Check it out HERE.
ABOVE US THE WAVES RELEASES VIDEO FOR "AFTERLIFE"
Greek melodic death metal/hardcore band, ABOVE US THE WAVES, have released a new music video for "Afterlife", the track is taken from their sophomore album titled "ROUGH ON HIGH SEAS", contains 8 tracks and to be out on June 8th, 2018 via GROWL RECORDS a division of ROAR! Rock Of Angels Records. The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/FbUMItpZH24.
DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES AND TRAIN RELEASE NEW SONG “PHILLY FORGET ME NOT”
Ahead of their momentous co-headline North American summer tour, Daryl Hall & John Oates and Train have released the single "Philly Forget Me Not." An ode to the former’s hometown, the new track marks the first time Daryl and John have released a new song in over 15 years, since “Do It For Love” in 2002. Daryl Hall & John Oates and Train will also treat fans to a performance of the song every night on tour, kicking off May 1 in Sacramento, CA and wrapping August 11 in Seattle, WA. Listen to it HERE.
The Kut Release "Mind Games" Video
U.K. female alternative rock band, THE KUT, have released a new music video for "Mind Games", the track is taken from their long-awaited debut album "Valley of Thorns", due out on May 4th, 2018 via Cargo Records UK. The album was produced byJames "Lerock" Loughrey ( Skindred / Def Leppard / White Zombie / My Vitriol). The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/t5RxiauMXhg.
HYPERION ANNOUNCES NEW TOUR
Swedish symphonic black metallers HYPERION are ready to once again embark on their second European tour, the tour will take them through both East and South Europe this May. This will be the first tour dates for this upcoming European Tour for 2018. This closing the chapter for their 2016 album "Seraphical Euphony" which sold over 2,000 units worldwide. The band is currently at work on their all new album out in 2019. Check out the list of dates below with more to be announced.
TOUR DATES:
11/5 Warszawa (Voodoo Club)
12/5 Lodz (Magnetofon)
13/5 Krakow (Cemetery Pub)
16/5 Budapest (S8 Underground Club)
17/5 Leipzig (Mörtelwerk)
19/5 Berlin (Blackland)
GRÁ: Debuts First Single "Krig"
Swedish black metal group GRÁ will be releasing their highly anticipated third album "Väsen" through Carnal Records at the tail end of April, 2018. INVISIBLE ORANGES premieres the first single "Krig" from the upcoming opus, it can be streamed HERE.
Demised Release "The Mournful Flight" Video
Spanish gothic rock metal combo Demised are proud to present their brand new video for the song "The Mournful Flight", taken from the album "A Warm Place To Stay" (Wormholedeath 2017).
The video has been directed, filmed and edited by Juan A. Ros. at Razzmatazz (Barcelona) and at Garaje Beat Club (Murcia) during October 2017. Check it right HERE.
HATCHET RELEASES VIDEO FOR "DESIRE FOR OPPRESSION" AND LAUNCHES DETAILS FOR NEW ALBUM AND PRE-ORDERS
Bay Area Metal staples HATCHET have released the video for "Desire For Oppression", the first single from their new album "DYING TO EXIST" in stores June 22, 2018 via COMBAT RECORDS/EMP LABEL GROUP.
"Desire For Oppression" is also the lead off track on the upcoming 2 disc "COMBAT BULLETS VOL 1.0" compilation, in stores April 6th 2018, also featuring tracks from COMBAT artists including SWORD (CANADA) , HELSTAR, DEAD BY WEDNESDAY, MARC RIZZO, WRATH, GREEN DEATH (FEATURING DAVID ELLEFSON), and THROW THE GOAT, plus over 25 of the best underground metal bands, as voted by fans, including CASKET ROBBERY, THE VENTING MACHINE, WHITE THRASH, ANIALATOR TX, JUDGEMENTAL, MIDNITE HELLION, AT HOME IN HELL, MYNAS, DIABOLOGY, A HANGING, FATAL MALADY, and more.HATCHET has launched the pre-order, for "DYING TO EXIST" via combatmerch.com, available on CD and LP, and in several bundle configurations.
The video is available at the following location: https://youtu.be/Pic7fpt8_SU.
Levels Gets Signed and Releases New Song "May Flower"
Famined Records proudly welcomes Levels to its roster. In commemoration of the incorporation, Levels, in affiliation with Ghost Killer Entertainment and The Noise, unveil a new song, titled "May Flower" — taken from their upcoming full length, due June 15, 2018. To view, or access, the premiere, go HERE.
Alesana Releases "The Coward" Stream Video
Raleigh-based rock outfit Alesana has released a stream video for their single, "The Coward," off their new EP, "The Lost Chapters", which is available now. The video is being premiered exclusively with Substream Magazine.
When discussing the new track and EP, vocalist Shawn Milke stated: "The Lost Chapters fills in some blanks for fans who enjoy the small details of our concepts. There are some tunes here that introduce new possibilities as to where our stories could have gone, while others expand on some already existing points. Musically and sonically each song feels like the era in which they were born and really makes The Lost Chapters feel like you are traveling back in time. 'The Coward' is, lyrically and narratively, my favorite of the bunch because it introduces a chapter in The Emptiness that I loved and was disappointed to cut originally. It takes place in the immediate aftermath of 'The Murderer'."
Check out the video stream HERE.
THE DTEASE RELEASES NEW TRACK "SHAKE"
Santa Barbara-based, glam/power rock group, The DTEASE, bring the party with the title track, "Shake," from their forthcoming album due out April 20, 2018. Listen to track as premiered on idobi radio HERE.
LOA ANNOUNCES NEW EP "TIDE", NEW SINGLE "FUNERAL"AND TOUR ANNOUNCED
LOA will release her upcoming EP "Tide" in the spring, a new single off it titled "Funeral" can be heard HERE. A tour set for the late spring will follow suite, find out where from the dates on the poster below.
Oceans say That They Are Far From Composure
Oceans an alternative band out of the U.K. have released their recent EP "Far From Composure", with plenty more where that came from underway! The band got together to disclose the matters of the EP, and what their goal is about their music and fan base.
1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.
Well this band has had a few line-up changes along the years, and the only remaining original member is Conor our Guitarist. We’re a completely different band to what we used to be. The rest of us met at a party flat called Kings Mansions while at Uni; we had a jam together and here we are!
2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?
Our name stems from a Malory Knox song we listened to called Oceans. We couldn’t believe the name hadn’t already been taken in the U.K.
3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?
Our band is based in Brighton. The music scene here is one of the best in the country, it isn’t necessarily the best for our genre but we’re working on that! We could recommend so many bands, here’s a few: Dove house, One Eyed Jacks, Quiet Lions, Orchards, Porshyne, Rusty Salt. There’s too many!
4. How would you describe your style?
Dynamic, energetic, powerful, melodic and narcissistic.
5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?
We just released our second EP "Far From Composure" and you can expect riffs, beats and hooks. We hope at least.
6. Do you have any new music in the works?
Always! We have a lot of writing to do as we’ve only just released the last EP but there’s plenty more where that came from.
7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?
Nothing we can reveal just yet, but there’s big things planned very soon! Sorry to be cryptic haha
8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?
Well our main goal is just to build our fan base and play to bigger and bigger crowds while enjoying it all as much as we can! We have so many bands we would love to support.
9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?
We’re on all the major music outlets, Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes. Whatever floats your boat!
10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?
We would love for a listener to find us interesting, exciting, thought provoking and catchy. Obviously everyone is different though so I think it will do different things to each individual. Love it or hate it, we really appreciate you checking us out! We’re just doing what we love doing!
Chip & The Charge Ups say Fans Can Get Head Start With All New Music or Wait It Out!
Power pop band Chip & The Charge Ups will release an all new EP later this year, into next year as well, but for the time being, have dived into details about said release and what to expect by it!
1. Can you help us get to know a little bit more about the band. How did you meet and get started in music? What is the story to be told?
The roots of Chip & The Charge Ups began where my previous band, Chip DiMonick, ended. In 2016, my parents both fell ill and had to move in with me under my 24/7 care. So, I had to step away from Chip DiMonick for two years. During that time, I wrote songs constantly. And, when I could get some outside help caring for my parents, I would slip away for a few hours to record some music in the studio. Fast forward two years and I had completed recording 11 songs and developed some relationships with musicians that I hired to play in the studio. After losing my parents and taking the time to recover from that loss, I formed Chip & The Charge Ups to release the music I recorded during that time and share it with the world via live performances.
2. How and why did you end up calling this band Chip & The Charge Ups?
Oh, man! It was a long road getting to the name! After building up an international fan base, I wanted a name that included "Chip" to leverage the familiarity that people may have with my songwriting. At the same time, the music I had recorded was much more eclectic than the hard rock/punk/metal that Chip DiMonick was known for. So, the new project had to have a different name. I wanted to begin the name with "Chip & The" and then have a word that began with "Ch." I just felt a name like that could roll off the tongue and be memorable. I came up with around 26 different "Chip & The" names and had some family members and musicians vote for the ones they liked best. I narrowed it down to two and went to some other people to tell me their preference between the two. It was pretty even, with a slight advantage to a different name. However, I had a design firm create a logo for that other name and nothing looked good. So, I had them design a logo for Chip & The Charge Ups and loved what they came up with! So, that was the deciding factor in what the name ended up being.
3. What type of music does this band actually play for those who may not know who you are and why should they?
I consider it eclectic and electrifying power pop. Sure, it has its roots in classic power pop. But it does sprinkle in influences from different genres like punk, metal, singer/songwriter and even a teensy weensy hint of country. I think that fans of Green Day, The Ramones, Butch Walker and The Marvelous 3 will love our music.
4. Who writes the songs and what sort of topics do they cover and why?
In the words of Barry Manilow, "I write the songs." They cover an extremely wide range of topics. For example, "Front Row" is a fun, youthful song about how it feels to live to be in the front row at concerts. "Shine Again" is a comeback anthem aimed at inspiring anyone who struggles through a dark time in their life to never lose sight of brighter days ahead. "I Hope I Never Say That Out Loud" is about the awkwardness of being in the friend zone. And "One Black Balloon" is a hopeful song I wrote for, and performed at, my father's funeral. And that's just four songs! I really wanted to stretch myself lyrically and I think that music fans will love the result.
5. What or who would you say are your music influencers and why?I'm influenced by all kinds of music. And I still discover new influences. During the time I was writing the songs for the upcoming releases, I was feeling nostalgic. I started listening to a lot of the music that was playing in my house when I was a little kid: Neil Diamond, BJ Thomas, Eddie Rabbitt. I can definitely say that my songs were influenced by these artists. But I'm not so sure that a listener can tell.
6. "Flow of the Current, Part I", is the debut EP to be had from you guys but why go the route of an EP?
Again, the music that I wrote over the past couple of years was very eclectic. When I tried to come up with the track order for a full-length release, I found it difficult. There was a level of variety that may have been common in the '70's, but is not so common today. But, I found that when I split tracks into two volumes, a magical experience happened. I put a metal-tinged tune with a punk-tinged tune with an edgy power pop tune and it worked. Likewise, I put the song with a classic rock vibe with a song with a singer/songwriter vibe with a song with a countryish vibe and that told a story of its own. It really comes down to the experience for the listener that I hope to create. And having two separate EP's created two very cool experiences.
7. Since "Flow of the Current, Part I" is the obvious "Part I" will this be an EP series developed into a full-length album series?
Yes. Part II is already done, but we'll release it about six months later.
8. Can you go into one or two tracks on the new album? If so, can you give us the track title and brief description of how the track sounds and how it came about?
Sure! "Front Row" came about after I began flirting with the idea of having a two-EP series instead of full-length release. There is a song that felt like it was perfect for Part II that had a song structure that I really liked - there were big gang vocals singing some catchy "woah's." I wanted a song with that same infectious song structure on Part I. But, I felt I couldn't write another vamp with "woahs" since I already had a song like that. So, I realized that "I Wanna Be Sedated" by The Ramones and "Crackling Rosie" by Neil Diamond both did something kinda uncommon: they had sing-along vocal parts that used "ba's." So, I came up with the "Baaah-baaah-ba-ba-baaah" part and wrote the rest of "Front Row" around that hook.
"Good Riddance, Fallen Angel" is a mashup of "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" by Green Day and "Fallen Angel" by Poison. Fans familiar with my previous albums and shows know that I love to create bizarre mashups. They usually just come to me after listening to a song and realizing another song uses a similar chord progression. That was the case with this one as well. I'm real happy with how it came out. Most people associate mashups with combined recordings of two songs. But I love to compose them and play and record all the parts, using no samples whatsoever.
9. Did the band have any definitive goals they were shooting for before the recording process began for this album?
The title of this EP series, "Flow of the Current," fits for a couple of reasons. First, it plays off of the electric theme of the band name, Chip & The Charge Ups. Second, it represents how the songs were written: they were crafted out of whatever emotion I was feeling at the time. They just flowed out of me and I'm sharing these songs with the world in a way that kinda shares my own personal progression through a very different two-year period in my life. So, my goal was more to sonically capture my emotions rather than worrying about what things I wanted to accomplish in the music business.
10. Are you using any new instrumentation you've never used in the recording process before?
I did take one very different approach compared to what I've done in the past. I've always played guitar on my recordings. On some, I had a second guitar player. But the guitar parts were always carefully thought out and rehearsed prior to going into the studio. Well, Mike Ofca - the producer/engineer I recorded all of "Flow of the Current, Part I" and all of "Flow of the Current, Part II" except for one song with - is not only a top-notch recording guy, but also a world-class guitarist. He has played with Steve Vai and convinced anyone who heard them that he deserved to be shoulder-to-shoulder with such a guitar icon. Mike is always happy to lay down a guitar track. So, I went into the studio with my guitar parts in mind, but I asked him to play at least one guitar track on most songs. And that unlocked some true magic, helping the songs reach their potential.
11. How would you describe the overall sound of the new EP?I think it sounds like it belongs on radio stations in every market. I'm very proud of how well it turned out and I hope the fans agree.
12. When can we expect the new EP to be released?
I'm trying something creative with these releases. Though the EP's won't be released in physical form or for streaming on the usual sites until September 2018 and Spring 2019, I have a program set up on Patreon where fans can get one song to download a month in advance starting now. So, they can wait until the music is available for the rest of the world. Or they can get a very inexpensive head start and hear it sooner. The program includes several levels to which fans can subscribe. So, they can choose to get just the monthly song download or they can choose a higher level with more rewards. Those other rewards include things like handwritten lyrics, credits in our YouTube videos and even a custom song that I will write and professionally record just for them about whatever or whomever they want! Fans can learn more about what's available at http://www.patreon.com/thechargeups.
Christina Holmes Decides to Bring the People Together
Singer/songwriter Christina Holmes, will be heading out for the summer, on her first headlining tour in support of her second full-length titled "Stand Up". Christina herself goes into discussion about the album, what to expect from a showcase such as her own, and what plans are ahead for this upcoming tour and the future then after.
1. You will be heading out on a fantastic U.S. headlining tour this summer. If you could think of one thing you would like to accomplish the most through that tour what would that be?!
I hope to be able to bring as many people together as possible into a positive light.
2. What have you done to prepare yourself for the tour?Everything. It’s been a long time coming and everything thing I’ve done for the past 9 years has lead up to this moment. I’ve grown as an artist and will continue to grow. This has been an amazing experience putting this together because many people didn’t think it was possible. I didn’t let anyone get in my way and just did it myself. Booking, advancing, promoting, you name it. I took the challenge on and am very proud of what has coming of it and what will continue to come from it.
3. So why did you want to do this tour, where it is your headlining but you inviting local musicians filling in as support and or openers, as opposed to having just a route support system for the tour?
It was a very easy decision for me. I was once that local singer trying to open up for someone touring through or someone who has inspired me. Many people, Nahko, Trevor Hall, and Xavier Rudd to name a few, gave me the chance to shine so now it’s my turn to do the same. I picked the openers based on people who I’ve met alone my journey. They all have put in work and I think they all deserve to be a part of the show.
4. Who came up with calling this tour the"Bring The People Together Tour"and why?
I picked the name based off of my song "Bring The People Together". I’ve always tried to bring people together with my music and I thought it was a perfect name for my first headlining run.
5. How do you feel about this tour being your "first" headliner in support of your sophomore abum "Stand Up"?I have never been so excited and proud.
6. What's your take on "Stand Up" as a whole?
It is my most proud work to date and really shows who I am as an artist and as a human.
7. What could one expect from a Christina Holmes show?
A good time, for sure, and you will probably cry. There is an on going joke with me and my fans that I always make them cry. My music is very personal and tells a story about my life and many of my fans relate to the stories in their own way. Many people cry either releasing sad emotions to help heal or just in pure happiness and feeling like they can do whatever they set their mind to.
8. How do you promote your band and shows?I do a lot of promoting with social media. I also have a street team that helps put up flyers and spread the word where they live. It’s a group effort!
9. Can you describe your show, visually and musically for us?
Acoustic rock and reggae music with a whole lot of love and emotion. Visually you will be able to feel like I am jamming with you in your backyard!
10. Once the tour in the U.S. is over what do you have planned afterwards?
I have many more dates planned for the US tour haven't been announced, so stay tuned for that! I will also be releasing visuals to some songs off of "Stand Up "as well as a new album coming this fall!
Heavyction - Hybrid Cognition
Heavyction's first idea behind their debut EP "Hybrid Cognition" would come in the form of the single turned video titled "K.U.M.U.S." This track not only stands on its own doing, but makes what this EP has to offer. Which is in short, pure brutality! It really is what comes in the form and shaping of "K.U.M.U.S.", and whole EP for that matter. The other array of tracks to come from it, would include the like of "The Key" and "Into Hiding", a cover song of the act Amorphis. That is it, for this EP, two original tracks with one cover track, making it short but nice. Out of all the tracks made available, the trio set become heavy yet fierce in tone of style. You get struck with a fast paced delivery, that makes the vocals and instrumental moments shine, keeping it driven yet direct. It just makes the music more memorable yet catching to the ears with ease. Heavycition's first release of effort that is this "Hybrid Cognition" EP is just the added adrenaline mixture, to keep you on your toes throughout its short yet brief entirety.
No Liars - The Cause & The Cure!
No Liars spent time writing and recording for their debut full-length titled "The Cause & The Cure!". Releasing from it a lead single called "Justified Sacrifice", which pretty much lays out the entirety of this album release. When hearing this track or seeing the video that accompanies it, it sets up what No Liars style is aiming to being. Their style is punk meets hardcore, that is pretty much it. So think not so much Hatebreed's level of style, but more like early AFI or Anti-Flag vibrations is what No Liars gives off upon this track and its album as a whole. Aside from the lead single being the factor choice provided, a lot of the other tracks have good promise to them, such as "Freedom Regime", "Animal", "Guilt Trip", "This Hell I Call Home", "Consumed" and "Faceless". When hearing any number of these tracks, you get the idea of what to expect. In short, it is fast, energy driven progression with lots of angst embedded within. That is how "The Cause & The Cure", plays out, throughout itself really. No Liars, have got the flare and pulsating force, to keep their style upright and go forward, making this album be a delivery that is expected but worth it.
The Great Heights Band - rad-pop
It's funny how a nobody band like The Great Heights Band, who not to be confused with another band with similar style and name, Hawthorne Heights, became such a deal after only being an act for such a short while. If you consider 4 years a short while at least, but in any case this is exactly what happened to The Great Heights Band, who got their start as of all things, not even a full-fledged band a duo act, leading into a fully fledged band of musicians who would go on to release their first full-length "Songs in Eastern Standard Timing" in 2015, with the plans for the follow-up album already underway one year later.
It was then during this time that between 2016 through 2017 the band was spent writing and recording material for their sophomore and follow-up release entitled "rad-pop". Which just so happens to also be what their genre choice is considered. So indie crossed with alternative mixed with some rock, think of acts from the 2000's era frame like Weezer, Motion City Soundtrack, and OK Go. That is the route of pacing and direction that can be found upon this "rad-pop" release. It does deliver though, not just with its content but having an accompanying single from it as well, this track being titled "Better Things". The sole alone track, being rather catchy, even taking on the likes of others, who took to the track, really embracing its energy and quick momentum. With that, the noted album does have other tracks along these same premises, including "Quicksand", "All In", "What's Real!", "Free" and "A Little Time".
How these tracks play out, is a lot like how "Better Things", had done, very energized, catchy, and upbeat on tone. When listening to this assortment, you feel as if you were taken a back into the era that was the 2000's if not earlier 2000's if at that. It makes The Great Heights Band be more of a variety, but sticking to a style that is noticeable and fun, even after all of this time past of course.
Overall "rad-pop", is a piece of work by The Great Heights Band, who have had quite the running, with no plans on slowing down but, speeding up, because with this album as it is now, it will take them ever so further, than their previous release had done, showcasing all just what they can do, in this form right here.
Dimmu Borgir Releases New Single And Video for "Council Of Wolves And Snakes"
Dimmu Borgir have released a new single turned video titled "Council Of Wolves And Snakes". Check it HERE.
FAILURE RELEASE VIDEO FOR "DARK SPEED"
Failure, who recently shared news of their plan to release a trio of digital EPs culminating in a full-length, physical album later this year, debut the video for "Dark Speed" via Alternative Press.
"David Dastmalchian is one of our favorite actors so it was a true pleasure to make the first Failure video without the band in it with him," explained Ken Andrews, who directed the video. Dastmalchian is known for his work in "Ant-Man" and "Blade Runner 2049."
Check out the video right HERE.
LegoHeads - Headlights
LegoHeads is an ambient pop band, made up of one man. Indeed true, LegoHeads has been active for three years now, making lyrically driven content, that is atmospherically, with an apparent rainy north western vibe keeps the music vivid and alive. That said, "Headlights", is taken from the sophomore album "The Space Between", a release that is set in place, by just this song alone. "Headlights", a pop meets indie rock, think of modern day act Twenty One Pilots, that is whom LegoHeads sounds like very much so.
In fact, they not only take influence from such an act, but LegoHeads' style is very mystical yet visual. In other words, the music is very dance friendly, that surely this track or any of the previous content beforehand, would be played within the walls of a club or party scene. So LegoHeads style is very enjoyable and rather fun upon listening in. "Headlights", for the most part, just brings to mind this energy force field of passion and pride. Not much else is needed here.
It is how LegoHeads works as a one man band of an act. The way that the material to come off of "The Space Between", is very well rounded, making the material more in-depth with the music and context as well. After hearing "Headlights", several times through, it became clear, that this track would be a factor of focus within this sophomore album. While it is a single of choice for this album, it is so much more than that even. The way of how the music and vocals work together, creates this circle of grouping that makes it just sink in, making it whole.
Like how the music is so driven in its styling, makes LegoHeads, more of an outsider, but good at what is being done. "Headlights", off of "The Space Between", album is just a track that has energies to spare, to keep the listening experience more fresher with each listen.
https://www.facebook.com/LegoHeadsMusic/
ZEAL & ARDOR RELEASE NEW TRACK AND VIDEO FOR "GRAVEDIGGER'S CHANT"
Zeal and Ardor have released a new track and video of the song titled "Gravedigger's Chant" for Good Friday this March 30th 2018. Check it HERE.
This Curse Releases Video for New Single "Trauma Bond"
New Jersey based alternative-metalcore band This Curse has premiered a video for their brand new single, "Trauma Bond," which is featured on the band’s forthcoming EP, "From The Darkest Places", out on April 13th 2018. Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/ZAL-ssZny0Q.