GRAND Release Video for Title Track of Upcoming Album “Guilty Pleasure”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 23, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by Johan Larsson

Grand have released today the new single and official video “Guilty Pleasure”, title track of the highly anticipated new album out on August 21, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.

The band commented: “Guilty Pleasure” is a catchy, feel-good track driven by an infectious riff, a memorable chorus, and lyrics about romanticizing the past. Both the music and lyrics reflect on and celebrate the spirit of the ’80s and ’90s, while bringing it firmly into 2026 through modern production and musicianship. The music video also creates a fun and engaging story that perfectly complements the song’s nostalgic yet contemporary feel.”

Pre-Order “Guilty Pleasure” HERE

Sweden’s Grand return with their third album entitled “Guilty Pleasure”, a masterclass in melodic AOR, delivering soaring choruses, lush arrangements, and timeless hooks. 

Fronted by the powerful and versatile vocals of Mattias Olofsson, complemented by Jakob Svensson’s searing guitars and production, and Maja Thorén’s atmospheric keyboards, the band creates a sound that is both cinematic and emotionally resonant. Johannes Arvidsson’s bass and Axel Nilsson’s drums provide the driving force that propels every track. 

“Guilty Pleasure” is an irresistible journey through modern AOR, crafted for fans who crave big melodies, sing-along choruses, and uncompromising sonic quality.

The band commented: “The album is a collection of our own guilty pleasures. We’ve blended AOR with ’80s rock and pop into a high-energy mix filled with pure joy – all wrapped in a modern, high-end production. With a strong five-member lineup, we’re back bigger and bolder than ever.”

Formed on the southern outskirts of Stockholm, Swedish AOR band Grand made a strong entry onto the global melodic rock scene with their self-titled debut in 2022. Featuring catchy hooks, lush production and timeless melodies grounded in classic influences like Starship, Foreigner, Toto, Mr. Big and Giant, the album positioned Grand firmly within the Scandinavian AOR tradition. 

Following the positive reception of their debut, Grand returned in 2024 with “Second To None”, further deepening their signature melodic rock sound.

In 2025, Grand grew from their original trio into a five-piece powerhouse with the addition of three new members. Founding members Mattias Olofsson (vocals), Jakob Svensson (guitars) were joined by Johannes Arvidsson (bass), Maja Thorén (keyboards) and Axel Nilsson (drums).

Grand consistently emphasize the close and meaningful relationship they share with their audience, often pointing to the wide reach of their fans and the connections that form when they meet in person. The ongoing exchange with listeners remains a key source of motivation for the band.

“Guilty Pleasure”, written and recorded during an incredibly productive period, represents the next evolution of their sound. It reflects a sound rooted in classic melodic rock while continuing to push the genre forward through passion, attention to detail, and a strong bond with fans around the world.

“Guilty Pleasure” Tracklist:

1.    Wild Heart
2.    Guilty Pleasure
3.    Have A Little Faith In Me
4.    Coldhearted
5.    Party Galore
6.    Still So beautiful
7.    I’m Ready
8.    Undo
9.    Amelie
10.    Beggin’
11.    Love Me Or Leave Me

Line Up:
Mattias Olofsson – Lead and Backing Vocals
Jakob Svensson – Guitars and Backing Vocals
Maja Thorén – Keyboards and Backing Vocals
Johannes Arvidsson – Bass Guitars
Axel Nilsson – Drums and Percussion

Follow GRAND:
Website
Facebook
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VELVETEEN QUEEN Release New Single/Video ‘Adrenaline’ from Upcoming Album

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 23, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Leave a comment

Swedish hard-rock risers Velveteen Queen have unveiled the video for their new single ‘Adrenaline’. The track is the second single from their eagerly anticipated sophomore album, The Greater Good, set for release on September 18th via Silver Lining Music. Pre-orders are available at this location.

Packed with energy and attitude, the new single ‘Adrenaline’ is a raucous, riff-fuelled anthem celebrating life on the road and an unwavering passion for rock ’n’ roll. The track is accompanied by a pulse-racing video directed by acclaimed filmmaker Patric Ullaeus.

“Some songs are written in studios. ADRENALINE was written somewhere between no sleep, another city, and the next stage. Fueled by our love for Rock ’n’ Roll and pure adrenaline, we just kept moving forward.” – Velveteen Queen

Watch/Listen to ‘Adrenaline’ here – video directed by Patric Ullaeus.

Velveteen Queen are rapidly emerging as one of the most exhilarating young acts in the modern rock scene, channeling the grit, swagger, and anthemic power of classic ’80s influences into a bold and contemporary sound. Having shared stages with Alice Cooper and Judas Priest, the five-piece have already built a reputation for their explosive live performances, undeniable stage presence and hook-laden rock songs.

The new album The Greater Good is a record which channels the strut of the Sunset Strip’s glory days via Sweden, with a healthy dash of old-school Guns N’ Roses, alongside spiritual ties to Aerosmith, Velvet Revolver and Hanoi Rocks. Produced by renowned producer Sören Andersen, there is an immediacy and vitality to Velveteen Queen’s songwriting that commands attention from the very first note. Take the bounce and groove of the glam-punk ‘Talk or Walk’, which boasts a huge choral hook and a snarling top lip of attitude. Meanwhile, ‘Liar’ is soaked in sleazy bad boy mean streets, with riffs swinging low and hard. Yet there’s also full ballad artistry on display with the soulful ‘Chains’, showing that Velveteen Queen can bring it down to strands of raw emotion.

Watch/Listen to the recently released title track, ‘The Greater Good’ here, featuring Peter Keys (Lynyrd Skynyrd) on piano – Video directed by Patric Ullaeus.

There’s a new generation of young glam/trash rockers hungry for real, no-frills rock ’n’ roll and with The Greater Good, Velveteen Queen confidently and successfully deliver that and then some.

The high-voltage energy captured on the record will soon be unleashed on stage, with Velveteen Queen poised to turn every show into a full-throttle rock ’n’ roll event. Their next live chapter continues in truly grand fashion, joining forces with rock legends Alice Cooper and Danko Jones in Rättvik on June 27th.

The Greater Good track listing:

  1. Too Far Gone
  2. The Greater Good
  3. Talk or Walk
  4. Adrenaline
  5. Can’t Go Back in Time
  6. Chains
  7. It Ain’t Over
  8. Liar
  9. Best of the Best
  10. Sorry
  11. Try (to Believe Me)

The Greater Good will be available on vinyl, CD, digital formats and D2C bundles. Pre-orders can be placed here

Upcoming shows:

27 June – Dalhalla, Rättvik (SE)
18 Sept – Debaser Nova, Stockholm (SE)
19 Sept – Valand, Gothenburg (SE)

VELVETEEN QUEEN are:
Samuel Nilsson – Lead Vocals, Keys
Lukas Axx – Guitar
Noah Mardh – Guitar
Vilmer Fall – Bass
Isac Borg – Drums

Follow VELVETEEN QUEEN on:
velveteenqueentheband.com
facebook.com/velveteenqueen.gbg
instagram.com/velveteenqueen_band
tiktok.com/@velveteenqueen_band

Prog Rock Powerhouse LALU Share New Video Single ‘I Am The One’ from Upcoming Album

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 23, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

French progressive rock powerhouse Lalu share today the new track “I Am The One”, the second single taken from the upcoming new album, “A Mythmaker’s Demise”, out on July 31, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.

Vivien Lalu commented: “I Am The One” is about the double life Martin LeMar (vocals) leads, a reality shared by many musicians today: a day job by day, and rock music / the stage at night. The video brings this to life by showing Martin at his desk, talking to the rockstar version of himself standing beside him. The song is the voice of that other self, the one in the shadows that keeps calling him back. As the lyric says: “I stood beside you, I am the one”.”

Pre-Order “A Mythmaker’s Demise” HERE

Lalu returns with “A Mythmaker’s Demise”, a milestone release celebrating the 20th anniversary of Vivien Lalu’s progressive rock project. What began in 2005 with “Oniric Metal” now comes full circle – this is not just a new album, but a bold tribute to legacy, craftsmanship, and artistic brotherhood. 

To mark the occasion, Lalu reunites with vocalist Martin LeMar (Nachtgeschrei, Mekong Delta), whose voice first defined the project. LeMar contributes powerful performances and lyricism that bridge past and present. Also making a triumphant return is drumming legend Simon Phillips (ex-Toto, Protocol), the very first drummer to record the earliest Lalu track, “Paint the Sky”.

Continuing the collaborative spirit ignited in 2023’s “The Fish Who Wanted To Be King”, Vivien Lalu teams up once again with longtime partner Joop Wolters on guitars and bass. The duo crafted the songs from the ground up, focusing on organic, dynamic arrangements with no overproduction – just raw, honest performances. 

“We wanted this record to feel alive. No drum samples, next to no EQ, just real performances captured in their natural state”, explained Vivien Lalu.

Guitarist Joop Wolters added: “There has always been undeniable musical synergy between Viv and myself. This album came together very naturally, and locking in with the real, unedited live drums by Simon Phillips in the final stages was the icing on the cake. It truly feels like a real band, just like back in the good old days”.

The album was mixed to preserve a live, open sound, capturing the human energy of each take. A key guest appearance comes from keyboard virtuoso Jens Johansson (Stratovarius, Yngwie
Malmsteen), who delivers explosive solos across three tracks. His presence carries particular
significance, having been one of Vivien’s earliest influences and a contributor to both “Atomic Ark” and “Paint The Sky”.

The evocative title “A Mythmaker’s Demise” reflects on the fading light of human imagination in the age of artificial intelligence. The striking artwork by Mattias Norén portrays a writer dying at his desk, while his creations struggle to escape into a world that no longer values them – a visual metaphor for the album’s deeper message. 

“A Mythmaker’s Demise” isn’t just an album – it’s a time capsule of progressive rock’s soul, 20 years in the making.

“A Mythmaker’s Demise” Tracklist:

1.    Tears Of The Muse
2.    EKO
3.    I Am The One
4.    Mayacama (Instrumental)
5.    Prince With The Swift Warning
6.    Learning To Fly
7.    A Drop Of Water (Instrumental)
8.    Fhloston Paradise
9.    Cordal Weaves
10.    Midnight Ink

Line Up:
Vivien Lalu – Keyboards
Joop Wolters – Guitars, bass 
Martin LeMar – Vocals 
Simon Phillips – Drums 

Follow LALU:
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GLORYHAMMER Announce New Album “Space 1993: Wrath of Kor-Virliath”, Out October 16th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 23, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

The enemies of Dundee tremble as exalted power metal heroes GLORYHAMMER announce their long-awaited fifth album, Space 1993: Wrath of Kor-Virliath! Due for release on October 16, 2026, via Napalm Records, the album is a direct sequel to 2015’s Space 1992: Rise of the Chaos Wizards, continuing the epic saga of the McFife dynasty. Space 1993: Wrath of Kor-Virliath follows Angus McFife V, the Crown Prince of Fife last seen in 2022’s single “Fly Away,” as he ventures into a perilous journey across spacetime that will lead him to the distant future of 1993, where his destiny lies.
 
Across eleven tracks, the band of heroes draws upon a more diverse range of influences than ever before, without ever compromising on the hook-driven, memorable songwriting that they are known for. From classic power metal to thrash, high energy synth rock to vast, sweeping orchestral soundscapes and more. Produced by the band themselves and mixed by Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Amaranthe), this is GLORYHAMMER as you’ve never heard them before.
 
GLORYHAMMER about the new album:             
“Mighty warriors, rejoice! The almighty GLORYHAMMER return triumphantly with a new chapter in the long and tumultuous history of the Intergalactic Empire of Fife. Multidimensional wormholes, abandoned space stations, and EPIC BATTLES await at the final frontier of Space 1993. FOR THE ETERNAL GLORY OF DUNDEE!”

Pre-order your copy of Space 1993: Wrath of Kor-Virliath NOW

Will Angus and his allies prevail in this titanic struggle? Or will the galaxy plunge into demonic chaos? Join GLORYHAMMER and find out – For the Eternal Glory of Dundee!

Space 1993: Wrath of Kor-Virliath tracklisting:

  1. Ultra Portam Astralem
  2. Ultimate Sacrifice
  3. On a Quest for Aberdeen
  4. Die with a Sword in My Hand
  5. Silver Talon
  6. Starfighters of Leuchars
  7. Warriors of Auchtermuchty
  8. Pax Galactica
  9. Demonic Devotion
  10. Hammer of Fate
  11. The Celestial Warhost of the Dundonian Empire Marches to Space Against the Dark Sorcerer: Final Assault on Battlemoon X-22

“Ultra Portam Astralem” opens Space 1993: Wrath of Kor-Virliath with menacing drums and fanfare, shaping the cinematic setup of the album. The origin of the perilous undertone is explained in the following “Ultimate Sacrifice,” a sweeping power metal track: The Space Kingdom of Fife has been forsaken and Kor-Virliath seeks a new way to seize power after Zargothrax’s failed ritual. Previously released as a standalone single, “On a Quest for Aberdeen” shines anew in an album version; and the place of its vibrant story and rousing character, Angus V, is now fully revealed as it takes its place among the wider narrative of the album. At this point in the story however, peace isn’t an option yet: Aberdeen is overrun by demons in “Die with a Sword in My Hand,” and with a sentiment such as the one contained in this song’s title, epic battles will surely follow. With a chorus full of gang shouts, this track is certain to become a live favourite. “Silver Talon” keeps morale high by addressing the mighty galactic fleet, stunningly rendered on the album artwork against the backdrop of the pestilential Terrorvortex. Ser Proletius’ legendary Space Knights of Crail join their ranks with the ace pilots whose campaigns are illustrated amidst a stunning orchestral landscape in “Starfighters of Leuchars.” Afterwards, GLORYHAMMER expands upon the story behind birthplace of Zargothrax, where the battle hardened “Warriors of Auchtermuchty” swear their allegiance to their emperor with an inescapably catchy sing-along chorus. Elsewhere in space, majestic melodies echo through the derelict halls of an abandoned spaceship, as Angus is guided to an unexpected long-lost ally, taking him one step closer to the ultimate goal of “Pax Galactica.” Electronic soundscapes lead into energetic “Demonic Devotion” which has the song’s protagonist, long trapped in his own mind, trying to reconcile with the destruction in his wake while “Hammer of Fate” sets the scene for what’s to come, but is it the fate we have all come to expect? The story concludes with the bombastic monolith of “The Celestial Warhost of the Dundonian Empire Marches to Space Against the Dark Sorcerer: Final Assault on Battlemoon X-22,” an epic nearing 13 minutes of playtime, split into four ever-so-theatrical chapters. As previously seen with GLORYHAMMER, the narration is expanded through voice lines of a host of legendary characters, as they engage in mortal battle to change the fate of the galaxy…

GLORYHAMMER Live 2026
 
Festivals
12.07.26 BG – Mogilovo / Midalidare Rock
22.08.26 SE – Malung / Brothers Of Metal Open Air
 
Album Release Tour
Support: Majestica + Arion
16.10.26 FR – Toulouse / Interference
17.10.26 ES – Villava / Sala Totem Aretoa
18.10.26 ES – Madrid / Sala But
20.10.26 ES – Barcelona / Razzmatazz 2
21.10.26 FR – Lyon / Rayonne
23.10.26 DE – Stuttgart / LKA Longhorn
24.10.26 DE – Hamburg / Docks
25.10.26 NL – Utrecht / Tivoli Vrendenburg
26.10.26 DK – Copenhagen / Amager Bio
28.10.26 FI – Helsinki / Tavastia
30.10.26 SE – Stockholm / Fryshuset
31.10.26 SE – Gothenburg / Pustervik
01.11.26 NO – Oslo / Rockefeller
03.11.26 DE – Berlin / Festsaal Kreuzberg
04.11.26 PL – Warsaw / Proxima
05.11.26 CZ – Ostrava / Club Garage
06.11.26 DE – Hanover / Capitol
07.11.26 DE – Oberhausen / Turbinenhalle 2
08.11.26 DE – Saarbrucken / Garage
10.11.26 AT – Vienna / Arena
11.11.26 DE – Nuremberg / Hirsch
12.11.26 DE – Frankfurt / Batschkapp
13.11.26 DE – Munich / Backstage
14.11.26 DE – Leipzig / Hellraiser
15.11.26 CH – Pratteln / Z7
17.11.26 FR – Paris / Machine du Moulin Rouge
18.11.26 BE – Antwerp / Trix
20.11.26 UK – London / Islington Assembly Hall
21.11.26 UK – Manchester / Academy 2
22.11.28 UK – Glasgow / Garage

GLORYHAMMER online:
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
NAPALM RECORDS

TONIC BREED Unleashes New EP “Name Dealer”, Ft. Guests from Whitesnake, Flotsam and Jetsam, Five Finger Death Punch, ex-Lamb of God, ex-Megadeth

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 23, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Tonic Breed, the long‑running Norwegian thrash and heavy‑metal project led by Patrik K. Svendsen, returns in 2026 with its most ambitious and star‑studded release to date: the new EP “Name Dealer”. Reinvention has always been at the heart of Tonic Breed, and this EP pushes that ethos further than ever, bringing together an elite roster of guest musicians whose contributions elevate each track into its own distinct sonic world.
​
The EP features performances from Tommy Aldridge (Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne), Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Trans‑Siberian Orchestra), Chris Adler (ex‑Lamb of God, ex‑Megadeth), Michael Gilbert (Flotsam and Jetsam), Charlie Engen (Five Finger Death Punch, Scale The Summit), and producer/mixer Adrian Bjerketvedt, along mastering by Steve Kitch except for track 3 “Anew” mixed and mastered by Gene “Machine” Freeman, “Name Dealer” stands as Tonic Breed’s most diverse, dynamic, and collaborative work yet.

“Name Dealer is the second EP in the new Tonic Breed format, where guests are invited to perform on the tracks. The first two songs were released last year, and the EP was completed with an additional two songs on June 10th. I’m extremely happy with the quality of the songs and the musicians involved in the process. This EP experiments with everything from the old recipe while adding new layers such as orchestration and different songwriting approaches. The quality of the deliveries from everyone involved is beyond my expectations. Everything from the musical contributions from the guests to the mixing and engineering process in the final stages of the song creation has exceeded what I hoped for,” says Svendesen.

Across its four tracks, the EP showcases the full spectrum of Tonic Breed’s identity: thrash roots, melodic depth, emotional storytelling, and the unmistakable fingerprints of world‑class guest performers.
​
The EP opens with a track that wastes no time establishing its intensity. Title track “Name Dealer” hits immediately, fast, sharp, and unrelenting, yet anchored by a rare melodic hook in the chorus, something not typically associated with Tonic Breed’s catalogue. The song is elevated by the powerhouse duo of Tommy Aldridge on drums and Joel Hoekstra on guitar, whose performances bring a level of precision and fire that Svendsen describes as exceeding all expectations. Their involvement marks a milestone collaboration for the project, adding both prestige and unmistakable character to the track.
​
The second track, “Close In,” featuring Charlie Engen on drums, shifts into a more expansive emotional space. Musically, it’s a layered semi‑ballad; clean passages, heavy surges, harmonies, choirs, and orchestration intertwine to create the most dynamic arrangement Svendsen has ever crafted. Lyrically, the song explores the long‑term weight of loss, not just the moment of impact, but the lingering emotional gravity that follows. It’s a deeply personal piece, balancing vulnerability with power.
​
A high‑octane eruption of riffs and rhythmic force, “Anew” features Chris Adler, whose unmistakable drumming reshaped the song from the ground up. Originally built from a rough demo, the track evolved through collaborative restructuring, with Adler taking the lead in forging a more unique and effective arrangement. For fans of Adler’s signature style, this track delivers in full; Svendsen calls it the most Lamb of God‑esque performance he’s heard from Adler since his time in the band. It’s a rare opportunity to hear Adler’s drumming behind someone else’s riffs, and the result is explosive.
​
Closing the EP is a pure thrash assault, direct, sharp, and free of filler. “The Die Is Cast” channels the spirit of ’80s thrash while weaving in touches of melody and atmosphere. Lyrically, it paints the image of a once‑mighty war machine lying broken among the wreckage of others like it, its silence heavy with the memory of destruction. The track features Michael Gilbert, whose presence ties the song directly to the era and genre that inspired it. His contribution adds authenticity and weight, making this a standout moment for longtime thrash fans.

Tonic Breed began in 2006 as a four‑piece band from Sarpsborg, Norway, but since 2019 has evolved into a one‑man project driven by Svendsen’s vision and a rotating cast of elite collaborators. Over the years, Tonic Breed has worked with some of metal’s most respected musicians, including Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Bernt Jansen (Artch/Wig Wam), Björn Strid (Soilwork), Martin Skriubakken (Endezzma), Oliver Palotai (Kamelot), and “Name Dealer” continues that tradition with its most impressive lineup yet.

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/1bMoNWS8EiuLAD2NDrurnj

Music Videos:
Name Dealer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etvT8PAeRAU​
Close In – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-S1fQgYR0A​
Anew – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx-8n9qs5cY​
The Die Is Cast – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAC4_K0Sqko

Track Listing:​
1. Name Dealer ft. Tommy Aldridge (drums), Joel Hoekstra (lead guitars) – 3:48
2. Close In ft. Charlie Engen (drums), Adrian Bjerketvedt (guitars and lead guitars) – 5:45
3. Anew – Chris Adler (drums) – 3:31
4. The Die is Cast ft. Michael Gilbert (guitar solo) – 3:31

For more info:​
​https://tonicbreed.com​
​https://facebook.com/tonicbreed​
​https://instagram.com/tonicbreed

German WALLFAHRER Drops New Single ‘Wanderer in den Schatten’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 23, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo: Wallfahrer

Misanthropy in the appreciation of nature… 
The band also released their highly acclaimed debut album, “Anthologie der Abkehr”, independently at the end of April 2018, with the creators remaining completely anonymous even when it came to the band’s biography.

From the outset, the musicians deliberately kept their identities and backgrounds under wraps so as not to distract from the idea behind the band, or its message or statement.
Given their musical prowess, speculation arose in the music press and within genre circles that established musicians were behind the project … [find out more here » ]

The first single, “Wanderer in den Schatten” is out now, from the new album “Knochenkabinett”.

Listen to it on bandcamp – Artwork: mortemraw

LINE-UP
Wallfahrer • All instruments, Vocals

DISCOGRAPHY
2018 • Anthologie der Abkehr • Full-length
2019 • Rattenritual • Full-length
2020 • Lightbringer​-​Leidbringer • Full-length
2021 • :A​.​A​.​S​.​D​.​W: • EP
2022 • Den Menschen so fern • Full-length
2024 • In Dubio Pro Misanthropia • Full-length
2026 • Knochenkabinett • Full-length

More info: https://www.facebook.com/Wallfahrer616/