German metalcore band SENNA are back with a storm, delivering their electrifying new single 'Hurricane', the latest preview of their forthcoming debut album Stranger To Love, released 23rd May via SharpTone Records.
Stream 'Hurricane' here: https://bfan.link/hurricane-16
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/I3HaOPvOKvg
With its relentless energy and captivating soundscapes, 'Hurricane' embodies the chaos of the mind and the struggle to find clarity within it. Speaking on the new single, the band shares: "'Hurricane' is an intense, electrifying track that takes you on a journey through emotion and energy. With its powerful rhythm and captivating sound, we wanted to capture the chaos of the mind and the struggle to find clarity amidst it. It’s a song for anyone navigating their own storm, seeking release and strength in the face of adversity."
Pre-order Stranger To Love here: https://bfan.link/stranger-to-love
Following the success of their previous singles 'High Note', 'Rain' and 'Blackout', 'Hurricane' further cements SENNA’s ability to craft music that resonates on a deeply personal level while pushing the boundaries of their sound. With Stranger To Love, SENNA present an intimate and deeply reflective collection of songs that explore the subtleties of human connection and personal growth. Guitarist Marcel Dürr, speaking on the album’s themes, shares:
"Stranger To Love is a collection of anecdotes from our own personal lives. These stories are not special in the sense that they are not extraordinary or unique to just us. They are not these once-in-a-lifetime experiences that change everything. They’re the kinds of experiences that happen quietly, in everyday moments. A conversation that didn’t go as planned. Feelings that linger longer than they should. Slowly realizing that things have changed in a relationship.
"What makes these stories meaningful is not that they are special, but that they are real. They happen to us, they happen to people everywhere, every day. Sometimes they happen in obvious ways, sometimes in ways that barely get noticed. They’re part of what it means to figure things out. In the end, these moments connect us, even if we experience them in our own way."
SENNA have been steadily carving out their space in the alternative music scene with their raw lyricism and dynamic sound. With Stranger To Love, the band expands their sonic landscape, delivering a record that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
For more:
https://linktr.ee/senna.band
https://www.facebook.com/senna.band
https://www.instagram.com/senna.band
Photo Credit: Alex Krauss
Today, 21st March, avant-death metal trio Imperial Triumphant have released their sixth full-length, Goldstar, via Century Media Records. Their most instant and evocative work to-date, Goldstar reins in their musical wanderlust with a newfound focus that the band have only hinted at with past works.
The trio also release their new single and video for 'Gomorrah Nouveaux', directed by Brendan McGowan, which you can watch here: https://youtu.be/7Ios6fwqrSU
Purchase Goldstar in various formats here: https://imperialtriumphant.lnk.to/Goldstar-AlbumPR
Imperial Triumphant comment: "Goldstar is alchemy in sound—turning discord into something radiant, something beyond us. This album captures the tension between grandeur and collapse, channeling the energy of a world in flux. It's meant for those who seek not just to listen, but to be transformed."
Imperial Triumphant will be touring the UK and Europe this autumn, supporting Igorrr. Fans worldwide can expect a gilded mask-lift when Imperial Triumphant returns to the stage; new masks and an upgraded show will be part of their live experience with Goldstar and beyond.
UK dates:
Oct 21, 2025: Bristol (UK) - Crane Bristol
Oct 22, 2025: London (UK) - Shepherd's Bush Empire
Oct 23, 2025: Manchester (UK) - O2 Ritz
Watch the videos for the previously released singles below:
'Pleasuredome (ft. Dave Lombardo & Tomas Haake)': https://youtu.be/cPzQ9wsYT0Q
'Lexington Delirium (ft. Tomas Haake)': https://youtu.be/v9cDvwwbj6A
'Eye of Mars': https://youtu.be/58IvVWKjKZQ
'Hotel Sphinx': https://youtu.be/KnNHaH2kfkE
With their new release, Goldstar, the masked triumvirate Imperial Triumphant continue their exploration of the urban and arcane. The band have found inspiration in the sound of metal pushed to its darkest extremes, gilded, art deco temples, and looming cityscapes. Recorded in early 2024 with longtime collaborator and producer, Colin Marston (Gorguts, Krallice), as the final project recorded at Marston's Menegroth Studios in Queens, the album was done in a breakneck five days. "As we recorded the final tracks, the experience felt like the universe was aligning," the band observe. "Colin, who is basically a fourth member of the band to us, held space for this transformative moment, offering his incredible artistry and expertise, which only deepened the connection we had to the music. The sound that we captured in that sacred space was the crystallization of everything we've worked for, and the memories of those sessions will resonate within us for years to come. Music exists as a force beyond the infinite."
Imperial Triumphant are currently touring North America as part of the 2025 Decibel Magazine Tour, which also features Mayhem, Mortiis and New Skeletal Faces. Zachary Ezrin (vocals/guitar) comments: "We are ecstatic to set out on the 2025 Decibel Magazine Tour. This is one of the most extreme packages and we are proud to be a jewel in the crown of insanity. Buy your tickets and buy Goldstar!"
See the link for all dates; Decibel Magazine Tour tickets can be purchased at: www.decibelmagazine.com/events/tour
Imperial Triumphant are:
Zachary Ezrin - Vocals, Guitar
Steve Blanco - Bass, Keyboards
Kenny Grohowski - Drums
Imperial Triumphant online:
http://www.imperial-triumphant.com/
https://www.facebook.com/imperialtriumphant
https://www.instagram.com/imperialtriumphant/
https://twitter.com/imperialnyc
Album artwork by: Zbigniew M. Bielak
Goldstar track-listing
1. Eye of Mars
2. Gomorrah Nouveaux
3. Lexington Delirium (ft. Tomas Haake)
4. Hotel Sphinx
5. NEWYORKCITY (ft. Yoshiko Ohara)
6. Goldstar
7. Rot Moderne
8. Pleasuredome (ft. Dave Lombardo & Tomas Haake)
9. Industry of Misery
Photo Credit: Nick Fancher
Six-time RIAA gold-certified modern rock powerhouse Pop Evil have released their eighth studio album What Remains today via MNRK Heavy. The band celebrate with a new, dark video for the track 'Side Effects'.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/VmFIGYpU1Ps
Listen to the full album here: https://popevil.ffm.to/whatremainsalbum
The song is an arena-ready juggernaut and boasts rueful lines such as "The world I built you tried to tear apart" and "Why did I try so hard to prove / What's killing you is killing me too," serving a powerful, unshielded message for anyone who has found themselves in a toxic situation and seeks the strength to break free for their own happiness and growth.
"Every action causes a reaction, a side effect," says Kakaty. "Toxicity is a virus that spreads and kills, but liberation and healing lies in an antidote you already possess. And now is the time to take it."
"Pop Evil manage to remain fresh and authentic, which is remarkable in itself; others have yet to achieve that." - OX Fanzine (DE)
"'What Remains' is truly an exciting piece of music, from front to back, proving that post-grunge and nu-metal can still sound fresh and exciting in 2025." - Blabbermouth (US)
"This is not my usual listening fare, but what Pop Evil have created here is phenomenal!" - Powerplay (UK)
For two decades, Pop Evil frontman Leigh Kataky has needed to mine the deepest of reserves in order to drag the band up from the blue-collar grassroots of his local Michigan scene to stand proud at the top of the modern rock game. Soaring successes, bitter defeats… Leigh Kakaty has survived it all.
What Remains is the culmination and story of this journey with Pop Evil, laid bare like never before. Continuing in the recent vein of 2023's acclaimed Skeletons, the new opus is both sonically and thematically Pop Evil's heaviest ever offering; a thundering collection of arena-ready modern rock and metal hits in which Kakaty opens heart, mind, and soul.
"There are a lot of issues and things that I've dealt with in this journey of Pop Evil that I've buried for a long time," the frontman explains of this document of resilience, perseverance, and accountability.
Pop Evil were born in North Muskegon, Michigan in 2001, Kakaty drawing on the lessons of a youth first shaped not by music, but by high school basketball — leadership, team work, the drive to improve in the lonely hours put in at the gym at 5am, the will to win suppressing any fear — in order to fight tooth and nail for their break-out moment.
"I was hustling and learning every day to make my dreams come true," Kakaty recalls of his time playing local bars and slinging early EPs out of the back of his truck. "Studying never interested me. Neither did getting a regular job. A knee injury wrecked my shot at playing sports. Music was all I wanted to do from that moment, and I didn't give myself a backup plan. Pop Evil gave me a purpose, and a reason to get up every day. It became a crusade."
Lipstick on the Mirror, their 2008 debut, and its follow-up, War of Angels, brought acclaim and global attention; 2013's Onyx delivered the first of the band’'s nine No.1 singles and six RIAA-certified gold and platinum plaques, but also a period of darkness brought on by the grief of Kakaty losing his father. "I was completely lost … I had just missed the last five years with my dad, chasing this dream when I could have been with him. I didn’t know if I wanted or could do Pop Evil any more," he says. The band’'s 2017 self-titled album, opened by the smash-hit 'Waking Lions' was written "pretty much to save my life" – but in turn “reminded me of the fire I have inside, and that God put me here to make music that could help people."
It's a mission statement enshrined in Pop Evil to this day — and which provided the spark for the genesis of What Remains.
“You're always chasing that one song that can connect with that one person," Kakaty says. "And that process has to start with yourself. There's a lot of personal healing on this record, a lot of things I wanted to get out for my own mental well-being. I'm finally at a place where I can confront my demons."
Sonically, the album is a riotous explosion of life-affirming noise; a vortex of scything riffs and gut-punch drum beats that regularly give way to Pop Evil's hallmark anthemic choruses.
"We set out to push boundaries” nods Kakaty. "Metal has always been a part of our DNA, but we've never made it such a focal point before. A lot of writing on this record has been about listening to what my soul is saying and letting the songs find their own path, rather than chasing a sound that might fit in on the radio. I think you can really hear the mood and emotion of the album's themes in the music."
Pop Evil online:
www.popevil.com
www.facebook.com/popevil
www.twitter.com/popevil
www.instagram.com/popevil
Track-list:
1. When Bullets Miss
2. Deathwalk
3. What Remains
4. Wishful Thinking
5. Side Effects
6. Criminal
7. Enough Is Enough
8. Zero To None
9. Knife For The Butcher
10. Overkill
Photo Credit: Rhys Bennett
Maverick Aussie rockers Battlesnake have triumphantly declared their new album, Dawn Of The Exultants And The Hunt For The Shepherd, will be released on 6th June.
In celebration of these tidings, the sextet have revealed their new single 'Shepherd Hunter'.
Stream: https://battlesnake.lnk.to/ShepherdHunter
Pre-order Dawn Of The Exultants And The Hunt For The Shepherd here: https://battlesnake.lnk.to/DawnOfTheExultantsAndTheHuntForTheShepherd
Battlesnake comment that the new single 'Shepherd Hunter' is "The search for Jesus’ long lost twin, the second messiah. The Exultants hunt and track him down for themselves, thus he becomes the Metal Christ, ‘Sanctum Robotos’."
The news follows Battlesnake's previous single release, the irresistible 'The Fathers of Iron Flesh'.
Watch: https://youtu.be/q2bo3XQhLFQ
Stream: battlesnake.lnk.to/TheFathersOfIronFlesh
In 2024, Battlesnake's momentum exploded internationally across the UK and Europe where their unique sound resonated with fans and critics alike. Their album The Rise and Demise of the Motorsteeple (2024) marked a significant milestone in their career, blending high-octane metal with intricate storytelling. The album’s success propelled Battlesnake into the global spotlight, securing their place as one of the most anticipated bands in the scene.
Now, as 2025 dawns, Battlesnake are poised to embark on their biggest year yet. New single 'Fathers of the Iron Flesh', a track that promises to be an anthem for fans worldwide. As the band's sound continues to evolve, this new single reflects their darker, more refined edge, showcasing the band's mastery of both melody and aggression.
This year will also see Battlesnake embark on an ambitious UK and EU tour, bringing their hard-hitting sound to some of the biggest music festivals in the world, including Download Festival (UK), Copenhell (Denmark), Rock for People (Czech Republic), Mad Cool (Spain), and more. With each performance, Battlesnake will prove their reputation as one of the most dynamic live acts in modern rock.
Dates:
13 - 15 June Download Festival, UK
14 June Rock For People, CZ
17 June Speicher-Husum, DE*
18 - 21 June Copenhell, DK
20 June Freak Valley, DE
With DZ Deathrays
7 July Bodega, Nottingham, UK (co-headline)
8 July Chalk, Brighton, UK (co-headline)
9 July Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, UK (co-headline)
10 July 2000trees, UK
10 -12 July MadCool, ES
15 July DB's, Utrecht, NL
16 July Altstadt, Eindhoven, NL*
17 - 20 July Zwarte Cross, NL
18 - 20 July Rockland Festival, ES
18 - 20 July Ilosaarirock, FIN
29 July Free & Easy, Munich, DE*
1 August Open Air Graenichen, CH
6 August Underworld, London, UK*
9 August Rebellion, Manchester, UK*
12 August Hug & Pint, Glasgow, UK*
13 August Lending Room, Leeds, UK*
14 August ArcTanGent, UK
15 August Hoflärm Festival, DE
*Headline shows
The rising titans of Australian hard rock and pure heavy metal, Battlesnake have quickly ascended from the underground, captivating audiences worldwide with their unique blend of powerful riffs and dynamic songwriting. Channelling the likes of Queen, Judas Priest and Black Sabbath into something familiar yet ground breaking at the same time. Renowned for their high-octane live performances, epic theatrical compositions, and relentless energy, they have firmly established themselves as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary metal.
Formed in 2019, Battlesnake quickly captured attention with their debut EP, Myths and Legends from Gorbag’s Domain (2020), followed by their self-titled full-length album in 2023. With each release, their sound has evolved into a mighty force, blending heavy riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate melodies, while keeping the raw, unrelenting energy that defines their live shows.
The band's explosive rise in Europe and the UK was complemented by their collaboration with renowned acts like KISS (on their "End of the World Tour"), The Smashing Pumpkins, and Jane’s Addiction (on the "World Is a Vampire Tour"). The Australian outfit’s electrifying live performances were met with widespread acclaim, leading to sold-out shows and a rapidly growing fan base in these territories.
As they prepare to unleash their next chapter, Battlesnake remains steadfast in their pursuit of musical excellence. With a rapidly expanding fan base, critical acclaim, and an unyielding commitment to their craft, they are on track to conquer new territories and continue captivating audiences across the globe.
All hail Battlesnake!
Battlesnake are:
Nick Zammit (drums)
Sam Frank (vocals)
Ben Frank (guitar)
Daniel Willington (guitar)
Billy O'Key (keytar)
Elliot Hitchcock (bass)
For more:
https://www.instagram.com/battlesnakeband
https://www.facebook.com/battlesnakeband
https://www.youtube.com/@BattlesnakeTV
https://sptfy.com/PVxI
Colombia’s Poison the Preacher are set to take the metal and hardcore scene by storm with their explosive crossover sound. The band have officially signed a worldwide deal with Seek and Strike Records for the release of their debut album, Vs The World, set for release on 23rd May.
Juan Pablo (vocals, guitars)states: "We are incredibly excited to be a part of the Seek and Strike family. We are proud to have the opportunity to work with these excellent professionals moving forward. We chose them because they showed a genuine interest in the band and were very like-minded individuals. We believe this is the next logical step in our career and we are sure we'll make huge impact together."
To give fans a glimpse of what's to come, Poison the Preacher have released their fiery new single, 'Sucker Punch'. The track is a high-octane anthem filled with crushing riffs, fierce energy and unrelenting intensity and features guest vocals from Chris Ramos of Dead Heat. 'Sucker Punch' is a powerful statement of the band’s raw, unfiltered hardcore and metal sound.
Watch the video for 'Sucker Punch' here: https://youtu.be/re1Yd4G0BMU
Pre-save Vs The World here: https://orcd.co/ptpvstheworld
“We first met Dead Heat at the 100% Hardcore Fest in Bogotá in 2023, and we instantly clicked," the band recalls. "Chris’s contribution really took this song to the next level, and we couldn’t be more excited about how it turned out.”
'Sucker Punch' captures the essence of Vs The World, showcasing everything that defines the band, dynamic harmonies, complex time signatures, gang choruses, mosh-pit riffs and a breakdown that’s sure to get any crowd moving. “We chose this track as the lead single because it encapsulates the core of our sound,” says the band. “It perfectly represents everything we’re about, fierce attitude, intense energy, and an evolving, mature songwriting approach."
The video for 'Sucker Punch' was filmed with a live audience to capture the chaotic energy of a Poison the Preacher performance. "We were blown away by how many people showed up. The vibe was wild, and it was exactly what we wanted for the video," the band shares. "You can feel the intensity, and that’s exactly the experience we aim to deliver."
Vs The World represents a major milestone in the band's musical evolution and features guest appearances from members of Dead Heat and Sanguisugabogg. “This album feels like a huge leap forward for us,” says the band. “It’s the culmination of everything we’ve done up to this point. Everything fell into place, and we’ve finally developed a sound that truly represents who we are. This is us, unapologetically."
The band's relentless drive to push boundaries and evolve is evident throughout the album. “This record has put us in a mindset of constant improvement, experimentation, and growth,” the band notes. "We don’t want to make the same song twice. Every track on Vs The World comes from a different place. There’s something for everyone here. Whether you're into thrash, death metal, hardcore, or something in between, we’re bringing it all together in a fresh, unique way."
With influences from across the heavy music spectrum, Poison the Preacher refuse to be confined to a single genre. “We’re not just a thrash band with breakdowns. We’re a proud fusion of all the heavy music you love, with a perspective that challenges what you expect from a metal band.”
For those new to Poison the Preacher, the band promises that Vs The World will offer something for every fan of heavy music. “If you’re into thrash, death metal, hardcore, anything in the heavy music world, there’s a song here for you. And for our fans, you’re going to see us evolve and diversify even more. We’re not reinventing the wheel, but we’re definitely bringing something new to the table.”
For more:
https://www.facebook.com/poisonthepreacher
https://www.instagram.com/poisonthepreacher
https://linktr.ee/PoisonThePreacher
Track-list:
1. Future Tense
2. Sucker Punch ft. Chris Ramos (Dead Heat)
3. Dying Every Day ft. Devin Swank (Sanguisugabogg)
4. 1312
5. Hate Too Much
6. Congelado en el Tiempo
7. Promise To Pay
8. One Man Army
9. Us Against The World
Photo Credit: Tony Aguilera
Phoenix nu-metal juggernauts Sicksense, have unveiled their fifth single, 'Follow Me', taken from their upcoming debut full-length album, Cross Me Twice, out 28th March 2025 via Earache Records.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/Ht1VWbWfods
Stream here: https://earache.lnk.to/followme
Pre-Order Cross Me Twice: https://earache.com/sicksense
From the maleficent minds of dual vocalists Killer V and Rob The Ripper, Sicksense are leading the charge of the new wave of nu-metal. With the added arsenal of guitarist Agent Phil [Philip Lykostratis], bassist The Gothfather [Richard Regier] and drummer Smokin' J [Joseph Polizzi], Sicksense follow up their highly acclaimed two EPs with with their heaviest record yet, melting nu-metal elements with metalcore and electronic touches for a unique spin on the rejuvenated genre.
Killer V comments on the record: "Our upcoming album, Cross Me Twice, takes the listener on an emotional rollercoaster of a journey. We evolved from our traditional nu metal sound, by incorporating more modern metal and electronic elements into this album. The heavy parts got heavier, the soft parts got softer and the catchy parts got catchier. Cross Me Twice explores a wider dynamic range, which leaves the listener not knowing what to expect with each release. We were going through numerous personal issues amongst ourselves as a band while working on this record, which inevitably led to us parting ways with former members and bringing in new ones to complete it. These issues inspired the lyrical themes for each song. It wasn't easy to go through and create, but we're extremely proud of the end result.
"I remember spending countless hours working on keys and the overall sound design of Cross Me Twice, on top of all the vocal arrangements I normally task myself with. Teaming up with our producer, Joey Doherty, was the final step and best decision we could have made to bring you guys what we believe will be one of the absolute best sounding albums of 2025.
"There's something for everyone to enjoy here and we hope it means as much to our listeners as it does to us. It's truly special."
It's rare that a debut album inspires such fervent anticipation, but the thrill surrounding a full-length from Sicksense is concrete. A band who have nurtured their community from seedlings to an army of “Deli-boos” (if you know, you know), Sicksense made instant waves in the metal scene upon the release of their two EPs Kings Today and Fools Tomorrow.
These collections saw their music garner support from metal connoisseurs such as TankTheTech, feature in the ring with ex-NXT and NOAH pro-wrestler Stallion Rogers, and hit Spotify's Alternative Metal and New Nü playlists alongside other trailblazers in the future of metal. These two small portholes into their vibrant world have turned heads in the industry and metal fandom alike, receiving comparisons to nü-metal titans like Slipknot, Evanescence and Limp Bizkit in the process.
Sicksense have now announced their debut album Cross Me Twice, news which will see anticipation on all sides finally relieved. With Cross Me Twice, the band take their nü-metal influences and Frankenstein them into a hydra monster that sees the heads of metalcore, progressive metal and power metal combine into a modern experiment gone very right. The album is all a nü-metal fan could hope for while bringing new colour to the genre.
It's this versatility that sets Sicksense apart in the nü-gen surge. The adventurous Cross Me Twice is as fantastically otherworldly with luminous keys and glacial melodies as it is gritty with nü-metal grooves and stomach-lurching djent. Conjurers of jeweled light and chroma, commanders of shadow and moonbeams, Sicksense create such a thickly immersive atmosphere that it feels as though you can see the album just as much as you can hear it.
Sicksense are:
Killer V - vocals
Rob The Ripper - vocals
Agent Phil - guitars
The Gothfather - bass
Smokin' J - drums
Sicksense online:
Facebook
Instagram
X
Youtube
Bandcamp
Cross Me Twice tracklist:
1. Sellout
2. Wildfires
3. Throwback
4. Fever Dream
5. Invisible
6. On Repeat
7. Masquerade Parade
8. In This Carousel
9. Here Come All The Memories
10. Follow Me
Photo Credit: Akos Sogor
TÖRZS, Hungary’s premier instrumental post-rock band, return with the understated sonic beauty of Menedék, their first new music in six years, out 16th May via Pelagic Records. In celebration, TÖRZS have released the first single 'Otthon'.
Watch the visualiser for 'Otthon' here: https://youtu.be/w3DyKpfbfpg
Pre-order Menedék and stream the single here: https://orcd.co/torzs
Meaning ‘At Home’ in Hungarian, ‘Otthon’ serves as a de facto introduction to the record. The song’s lilting groove, soaring yet soft guitar palette and the band’s signature delicate dynamism all combine to invite the listener to reflect; not steering one way or another yet inviting us to close our eyes and join the flow.
Loosely translating as ‘Refuge’, Menedék sees the freshly bolstered trio in their element; finding shelter, comfort and joy in the act of creative collaboration whilst the storm of day to day life weathers ever on.
A steadfast and admirable mission statement centred on staying true to themselves in the moment, being open to growth and documenting this process as honestly as possible has led to TÖRZS building a reputation as one of Hungary’s most exciting musical collectives. Three stunning albums of organic and perfectly composed contemplation, as well as the band’s transcendental live shows alongside acts including contemporaries We Lost The Sea, Oh Hiroshima, Föllakzoid and more have placed TÖRZS at the forefront of a post-rock movement that prizes the shared experience of band and listener above all else.
The band’s previous full-length release, 2019’s Tükor, was recorded live at Aggteleki Cseppkőbarlang, a UNESCO World Heritage protected cave system, 500 metres below the Aggteleki National Park. Embracing the cave’s utterly unique natural reverb almost as a fourth member led to Tükor receiving critical acclaim, with TÖRZS were subsequently nominated for the HEMI Music Awards 2022 and invited to perform at the likes of Moscow Music Week (2020), The Budapest Showcase Hub (2021) and 2024’s Changeover Festival in Belgrade, Serbia.
Whilst the intervening years have seen unprecedented change on a global scale, TÖRZS too found themselves in a state of flux. The band returned to the more traditional studio setting in 2023, working alongside long-time producer György Ligeti, in order to faithfully capture the intimate energy of songs meticulously crafted together in their small rehearsal space, a far cry from 2019’s subterranean setting. However, having spent countless hours writing, orchestrating and recording the pieces that have become Menedék, the band’s founding drummer Zsombor Lehoczky stepped away from the band and music as a whole. Where this might have been catastrophic for any other band, remaining members Soma Balázs and Dániel Nyitray soon found a connection with Tamás Szijártó, who approached TÖRZS’ music with the same openness to creativity in the moment; not ‘performing’ as such, but simply working together to produce breathtaking, musical escapism away from the daily humdrum.
The album’s themes of shelter, refuge and support resound clearly on lead single ‘Otthon’. Meaning ‘At Home’ in Hungarian, ‘Otthon’ serves as a de facto introduction to the record. The song’s lilting groove, soaring yet soft guitar palette and the band’s signature delicate dynamism all combine to invite the listener to reflect; not steering one way or another yet inviting us to close our eyes and join the flow.
Elsewhere, the pounding, chiming ‘Levegővétel’ proves TÖRZS are still staying true to their mission statement of documenting the inevitable process of change. Here the band embrace elements of post-rock’s harsher, heavier side with a cacophony of driving half-time drums and distorted, open-chord guitars yet still provide brief havens of space for themselves, the song and the listener alike to breathe before the euphoric swell rises anew.
Whilst TÖRZS’ previous full-length effort was a spectacular collision of the band’s tight-knit existence and the (literal) echo chamber of the world outside, Menedék is introspective, understated and refreshingly brave in its honesty. TÖRZS have opened the doors to their inner sanctum, their rehearsal space, their songwriting process, their friendship; inviting us to live in it with them, to revel in the moment together.
TÖRZS ARE:
Recording:
Soma Balázs - Guitar
Dániel Nyitray - Bass
Zsombor Lehoczky - Drums
Live:
Soma Balázs - Guitar
Dániel Nyitray - Bass
Tamás Szijártó - Drums
Links
https://torzs.bandcamp.com
https://www.facebook.com/toerzs
https://www.instagram.com/torzstorzs
https://www.youtube.com/torzs
Track list:
1. Egy pillanatban a végtelen
2. Levegővétel
3. Átfordul
4. Földet ér
5. Otthon
Today, Dutch symphonic metal band BLACKBRIAR release their brand new song 'I Buried Us', a powerful track blending crushing guitar riffs, soaring orchestral elements, and raw, emotional vocals.
Vocalist Zora Cock comments: "'I Buried Us' captures the haunting aftermath of love laid to rest. In this song, I mentally dig a grave for a romance, but my imagination refuses to stay buried. I envision the two of us side by side, six feet under, a decayed heart still aching for their warmth. In my mind, we're still dancing in the afterlife, twirling in the 'what-ifs' and 'could-have-beens.'"
Watch the video for 'I Buried Us' here: https://youtu.be/Rr99hWoVXkQ
Stream 'I Buried Us' here: https://blackbriar.bfan.link/i-buried-us
“Some say that there is beauty in darkness - terrifying visitors, worlds far gone, gothic romances, bone-chilling legends, sin-eaters, burning hearts frozen in time, songs with a misleading voice, and a truthful whisper. This and so much more for you to discover on A Dark Euphony.” Such are the words of vocalist Zora Cock about the band’s sophomore album, which was released in fall 2023 on Nuclear Blast Records. A telling sign coming from a band who has revelled in gothic beauty and metallic darkness since their onset, spanning three EPs and a full-length album, along with long-time collaborator Joost van den Broek.
Formed in 2012 by Zora Cock, René Boxem, Bart Winters, and Frank Akkerman, BLACKBRIAR crafted their first single in 2014 with 'Ready to Kill', but it was 2015’s second single 'Until Eternity' that truly propelled them into the scene. A sweeping track with an equally compelling and beautiful video, it continues to draw many to the act with over 20 million views since its debut. Taking advantage of the growing buzz surrounding the band, they independently recorded and released their first EP, Fractured Fairytales, as well as acquiring a second guitarist in Robin Koezen. This EP laid down an impressive foundation for the band’s ethereal and breathtaking sound and brought about new opportunities for the act, including tour dates in The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and more, where the band played alongside EPICA, HALESTORM, IN THIS MOMENT, DELAIN and MaYan.
To keep moving ahead with full control of their creative ideals, the band successfully crowdfunded their follow-up EP, We’d Rather Burn, and brought it to life in October 2018. This EP would be the first time the band worked alongside esteemed producer Joost van den Broek to arrange and produce the effort, and this fruitful collaboration allowed BLACKBRIAR’s whimsical and enigmatic sound to reach new sonic heights. Released the same day as their self-made video for 'I’d Rather Burn,' this EP showcased a stronger sense of dreamy atmosphere and brought listeners beautifully grim tales of witches, banshees, and sea sirens. In the time following, keyboardist Ruben Wijga (ex-Re-Vamp) took a larger role within the band and began playing shows, after being involved in the songwriting process since Fractured Fairytales.
A busy 2019 followed, the band released a haunting single in May entitled 'Snow White and Rose Red'. A duet with Ulli Perhonen, their take on the Grimm’s fairytale featured striking cinematic visuals to accompany the spellbinding track. Continuing to dig deeper into fairytale realms, BLACKBRIAR closed the year with their third EP, Our Mortal Remains. Ever-sharpening their intoxicating blend of storytelling and breathtaking musicianship, the EP brought about new live exposures for the act as well. Small, sold out tours with EPICA in 2019 and 2020, as well as a sold out opening for DELAIN’s Apocalypse & Chill release show in Utrecht followed, with more future plans then being put on hold due to COVID-19.
Championing their continued independence, which included everything from songwriting, maintaining their web presence, overseeing merch, as well as shooting and producing their own videos and photos, BLACKBRIAR reached out to their ever-growing and loyal fanbase for assistance to make their full-length album a reality in 2020. Fans fervently heeded the call, reaching the €25,000 goal in under 24 hours and ending with a total of €70,000 and achieving all five stretch goals. An impressive accomplishment for an independent act, which also showcases a strong internet presence with over 230,000 YouTube subscribers and 56.5 million channel views as well as 37.9 million Spotify streams and 275,000 monthly streamers on the platform.
Entering 2021, the band relinquished a bit of control in signing exclusively with Doomstar Bookings to help properly support their highly anticipated first full-length album, The Cause of Shipwreck, which released in April. Once again recorded with renowned producer Joost van den Broek (EPICA, AYREON, POWERWOLF) at Sandlane Recording Facilities, this release showcased the band’s continued evolution into masterfully dark gothic storytelling and theatrical aesthetics that entice you into a deadly yet spellbinding musical paradise. On the live front, launching into success with six sold out Dutch club shows, they later extended into more European territories such as Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, France, and the Czech Republic as the band moved into 2022.
Despite a very successful 2021, the band still hungered for more, unleashing their latest single, 'Fairy of the Bog' in December. A song about ‘het meisje van Yde’ (Yde girl), it’s a mixture of folklore, myth, and ancient local history wrapped into a more mystical and magical package that showcases what BLACKBRIAR does best. Due to winning ‘Drents Talent Award Culture 2021’ from ‘Stichting Kunst & Cultuur,’ BLACKBRIAR performed ‘I’d Rather Burn’ live on television together with the Dutch ‘Noordpool Orchestra in early 2022. In April, the band parted ways with founding member and bassist Frank Akkerman. Not a band to slow down, they welcomed Siebe Sol Sijpkens from The Netherlands as their new bassist. A happy and energetic performer with a lifetime of global performances, he is a welcome addition to the act as they continue to strive forward.
With their vision looking firmly into the future, with a major label behind them, they set their sights on 2023 to conjure their most deadly siren song yet. Previously releasing the song 'Crimson Faces' to celebrate their partnership with Nuclear Blast Records, the band then unveiled to the world their second album A Dark Euphony. According to Zora, “We've had the pleasure of working with producer and musical genius Joost van den Broek, and we gave it our all to write this record and feel that this is our most complete, personal, and mature album to date.”
With accolades behind them, such as being nominated three times for ‘Best Artist’ in EuroSonic/Noorderslag‘s Popgala Noord (2018, 2020, 2022), and continued fan support with current monthly streaming totals on YouTube and Spotify near 1.5 million streams, the world is primed and ready for more spectacular journeys into darkness and beauty.
Stream/order BLACKBRIAR's last album A Dark Euphony here: https://blackbriar.bfan.link/a-dark-euphony
BLACKBRIAR are:
Zora Cock - VOCALS
René Boxem - DRUMS
Bart Winters - GUITARS
Robin Koezen - GUITARS
Siebe Sol Sijpkens - BASS
Ruben Wijga - KEYS
For more:
https://www.instagram.com/blackbriarmusic
https://www.facebook.com/blackbriarmusic
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6PXQUX3BYTSVj7LcvviOmI
Photo Credit: Edgar Kohn
Three years after their last studio album Heretic Tongues, modern hard rock act Wucan return with their new single & video ‘Irons in the Fire’.
Watch the video to 'Irons in the Fire' here: https://youtu.be/jGj6XAhalOo
Stream the single here: https://wucan.lnk.to/ironsinthefire
Heavy beats, loud guitars, epic vocals - this is signature Wucan. An undeniable headbanger that still holds surprises for long-time fans, but leaves the old and new listener surprised by the diversity of sound within.
"I wrote 'Irons in the Fire' as a little toast to all those who refuse to be beaten down by the adversities of the world and keep pushing forward," comments singer Francis.
‘Irons in the Fire’ is a classic metal/hard rock song, but the devil is in the details. Harmony changes, the theremin solo, and little breaks make it a classic Wucan song. The song addresses consistency and perseverance in the passion or calling that each person sees individually for themselves. The message that emerges: Don't give up and stay true to yourself.
Francis continues: "How does the saying go? 'Diamonds are made under pressure'? It sometimes feels like that when you pursue a goal and have to overcome obstacles and hurdles to fulfill your dream. Every setback shapes us, every defeat carries a chance within it, and it takes iron will and a good dose of passion to withstand this pressure. ‘Irons in the Fire’ was the first song we wrote for our upcoming album. We recorded it in 2024 with our homeboy Max Power in a studio in Berlin. After Heretic Tongues, we floated through jams for a while and were still unsure where the journey with the new album should go. When Tim brought this riff to a rehearsal, we let ourselves be carried away by it. At a certain point, one part flowed organically into the next. It felt really good when the song was finished and already hinted at the direction the new album would take."
The Dresden quartet recently entered the German album charts for the first time in their career with their last album Heretic Tongues, followed by impressive performances at numerous European festivals.
For more:
http://wucan-music.de
https://www.facebook.com/wucanmusic
https://www.instagram.com/wucantheband
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7FsZ5HKdtDFJ1xmK6NICBO?si=nlHnoldOSsaJehcl_jC3Zw
Wucan are:
Francis Tobolsky - Vocals / Guitar / Flute / Theremin
Tim George - Guitar
Philip Knöfel - Drums
Alexander Karlisch - Bass
