TASSI has unveiled a new chapter in their esoteric journey with the release of the single “怪想录 III”, now available for streaming. Premiering ahead of the full-length “Idamon Novasah-Liva” – due out May 31st, 2025 via Dusktone – this track offers a haunting glimpse into the introspective depths of the project’s ever-evolving vision.
With this highly anticipated chapter, TASSI continues its introspective and spiritual journey through a soundscape that blends post-black metal soundscapes and deep emotional storytelling.
TASSI is a project born from the mind of Chinese artist Dryad, also known for his work under BLISS-ILLUSION. Through this creation, Dryad gives life to TASSI, a bard wandering between heaven and man, whose esoteric and mystical journey revolves around the search for his lost love, Uni — the embodiment of his unwavering faith.
TASSI travels through time and surreal dimensions — romantic, divine, broken, or mad. Uni has transcended the sky and humanity itself, becoming a symbol of absolute love and spiritual devotion. This metaphysical odyssey unfolds as an intimate, nearly initiatory quest, where music becomes the language of the soul.
The upcoming album “Idamon Novasah-Liva” stands as a parallel branch — or sister series — to the Northland saga, forming what Dryad calls “The Chronicle of Strange Thoughts.” This new chapter delves into a more introspective and melancholic emotional layer of TASSI — a kind of inner double or alternate self.
Musically, “Idamon Novasah-Liva” embraces a depressive / blackgaze / post-black metal aesthetic, rich in sorrowful textures, meditative riffs, and deeply personal lyrics. The voice moves between prayer and lament, echoing through ethereal soundscapes and cathartic darkness.
All Western artworks for the project — including this release — are the work of Alcide Nathanaël, a visual artist from the esoteric and spiritual world, far removed from traditional metal imagery. His contribution brings an otherworldly and symbolic dimension to TASSI’s universe, perfectly aligned with its mystical essence.
Tracklist :
01. 怪想录 02. 怪想录 II 03. 怪想录 III 04. 怪想录 IV 05. 怪想录 V 06. 怪想录 VI：悲落之鸟 07. 怪想录 VII
Portland’s burgeoning black/death metal horde DROUTH has released their anticipated 3rd album, The Teeth of Time with Eternal Warfare Records.
“We are proud to present The Teeth of Time, a culmination of several years of blood, sweat and pain. It is a nightmare made manifest, and we are both eager to share our creative work and grateful to the many people who helped make it possible.” – DROUTH
The Teeth of Time, DROUTH’s long-awaited follow-up to 2020’s acclaimed Excerpts From a Dread Liturgy, is a sonic mind-melter, blending searing death with vicious black metal as witnessed on tracks like “False Grail” and “The Teeth of Time.” Step through the portal to one of the year’s most intense records.
The Teeth of Time Tracklist: 1. Hurl Your Thunderbolt Even Unto Death 2. False Grail 3. The Teeth of Time 4. Through a Glass, Darkly 5. Exult, Ye Flagellant
DROUTH Tour Dates:
May 31 – Portland, OR – High Water Mark June 2 – Salt Lake City, UT – Ace’s High Saloon June 3 – Colorado Springs, CO – What’s Left Records June 4 – Denver, CO – Hi Dive June 6 – Minneapolis, MN – Zhora Darling June 7 – Milwaukee, WI – Sabbatic June 8 – Indianapolis, IN – Black CIrcle June 9 – Chicago, IL – Reggies June 10 – Wichita, KS – Kirby’s Beer Store June 12 – Denton, TX – Dan’s Silverleaf June 13 – Dallas, TX – Double Wide June 14 – Austin, TX – The 13th Floor June 16 – El Paso, TX – Love Buzz June 17 – Albuquerque, NM – Sister Bar June 18 – Flagstaff, AZ – Monte Vista Lounge June 19 – Los Angeles, CA – Eli’s Mile High Club June 21 – Eureka, CA – Savage Henry Comedy Club
About DROUTH: Portland’s Drouth formed in 2012, originally under the name Contempt before changing their moniker following the release of their 2014 EP Skinwalker. The band stirred the local scene with their potent mixture of black metal, death metal, doom, and crust, and went on to release another EP, Vast, Loathsome (2015) and two albums Knives, Labyrinths, Mirrors (2017) and Excerpts From a Dread Liturgy (2020). Their follow up, The Teeth of Time was recorded and mixed with legendary engineer Billy Anderson (Neurosis, Cattle Decapitation) and mastered by Justin Weis (Agalloch, Hammers of Misfortune) and features five tracks of vicious, melodically adventurous black/death metal spread across 40 unrelenting minutes.
Drouth is: Matt Stikker: Guitar, vocals, lyrics Patrick Fiorentino: Drums John Edwards: Guitar, vocals Matt Solis: Bass
Wisconsin metalcore powerhouse ARCHERS have just dropped their latest single, “Wide Awake,” now available on all streaming platforms. Known for their intense energy, emotionally charged lyrics, and uncompromising sound, ARCHERS continue their rise in the modern metalcore landscape with this hard-hitting new release.
“Wide Awake” is from their upcoming EP, Temporary High, due out June 13 via SBG Records. Produced by Matt Good (Hollywood Undead, Sleeping With Sirens), the band’s fourth EP showcases ARCHERS’ evolving sound.
In regards to the EP, the band states, “Temporary High is all about finding catharsis. It’s about breaking free from toxic cycles and finding value in oneself apart from anyone or anything that would try to usurp one’s own identity.”
In addition, the band has shared some huge news! They will be hitting the road with Nothing More and Catch Your Breath from mid January through mid March 2026. The nationwide run will introduce ARCHERS’ explosive live show to even more fans as they continue building momentum into the new year.
“We are so excited and genuinely honored to be hitting the road with Nothing More in 2026! Touring with a band of this caliber is not something we take lightly and we are very excited to learn as much as we can from such seasoned vets. It will be such a treat getting to watch the incredible show they put on every night.”
The band’s EU/UK run kicks off June 10th in Berlin, Germany at Kantine am Berghain. Then in July, they’ll hit the road again—this time headlining a U.S. tour with support from Rivals, Of Virtue, and Dead Eyes.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
EU / UK Dates
06/10 – Berlin, DE • Kantine Am Berghain 06/11 – Hradec Kralove, CZ – Rock For People Festival 06/12 – Munich, DE • Strom 06/13 – Interlaken, CH – Greenfield Festival 06/15 – Donnington Park, UK – Download Festival 06/16 – Bristol, UK • Exchange 06/18 – London, UK • The Black Heart – SOLD OUT
Archers Headline Tour with Rivals, Of Virtue and Dead Eyes
7/5/2025 – Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Summerfest^ 7/6/2025 – Ferndale, MI – The Loving Touch 7/7/2025 – Columbus, OH – Skully’s Music Diner# 7/8/2025 – Lakewood, OH Mercury Music Lounge# 7/10/2025 – Boston, MA – Brighton Music Hall 7/11/2025 – Philadelphia, PA – The Foundry 7/12/2025 – Richmond, VA – Canal Club 7/14/2025 – Greensboro, NC – Hangar 1819 7/15/2025 – Atlanta, GA – Masquerade (Hell) 7/16/2025 – Nashville, TN – East Side Bowl 7/18/2025 – Chicago, IL – Reggies 7/19/2025 – Cadott, WI – Rock Fest* 7/20/2025 – Indianapolis, IN – Hi-Fi 7/21/2025 – Springfield, MO – The Riff 7/23/2025 – Dallas, TX – Trees 7/24/2025 – San Antonio, TX – The Rock Box 7/25/2025 – Oklahoma City, OK – Beer City Music Hall 7/26/2025 – Kansas City, MO – Warehouse On Broadway 7/27/2025 – St Louis, MO – Red Flag
Archers and Rivals only ^ No Of Virtue # Archers only *
Archers with Nothing More/ Catch Your Breath
1/14/2026 – The Fillmore – Silver Spring, MD 1/16/2026 – The Ritz – Raleigh, NC 1/17/2026 – The Fillmore – Charlotte, NC 1/19/2026 – House of Blues – Lake Buena Vista, FL 1/20/2026 – Jannus Live – Tampa, FL 1/21/2026 – Buckhead Theatre – Atlanta, GA 1/23/2026 – South Side Ballroom – Dallas, TX 1/24/2026 – ACL Live – Austin, TX 2/2/2026 – REVEL – Albuquerque, NM 2/3/2026 – The Criterion – Oklahoma City, OK 2/6/2026 – Marathon Music Works – Nashville, TN 2/7/2026 – Egyptian Room – Indianapolis, IN 2/19/2026 – Wellmont Theatre – Montclair, NJ 2/20/2026 – House of Blues – Boston, MA 2/21/2026 – Wind Creek Event Center – Bethlehem, PA 2/23/2026 – L’Olympia – Montreal, QC 2/24/2026 – HISTORY – Toronto, ON 2/25/2026 – The Fillmore – Detroit, MI 2/27/2026 – GLC Live at 20 Monroe – Grand Rapids, MI 2/28/2026 – The Riviera Theatre – Chicago, IL 3/1/2026 – The Sylvee – Madison, WI 3/3/2026 – The Fillmore – Minneapolis, MN 3/4/2026 – Burton Cummings Theatre – Winnipeg, MB 3/6/2026 – Midway Music Hall – Edmonton, AB 3/7/2026 – Grey Eagle Event Centre – Calgary, AB 3/9/2026 – Commodore Ballroom – Vancouver, BC 3/10/2026 – Moore Theatre – Seattle, WA 3/11/2026 – Crystal Ballroom – Portland, OR 3/13/2026 – Union Event Center – Salt Lake City, UT 3/14/2026 – Fillmore Auditorium – Denver, CO 3/16/2026 – The Pageant – St. Louis, MO
ARCHERS combine massive melodies and crushing heaviness with unrivaled passion and precision. The music of the Midwestern quartet connects deeply via confessional tales of broken hearts and mental anguish, building an intimate sense of community with outsiders from all corners of the world.
After years of honing their craft on the road, at major rock festivals and touring alongside bands such as Asking Alexandria, Catch Your Breath, From Ashes to New, Magnolia Park and Imminence, the band has developed a knack for delivering high octane, head turning performances that resonate with their fans while continuing to win over a dedicated army of new fans with each performance.
The Wisconsin band’s momentum is a testament to the strength of its soaring songs and magnetic live performances. Its fourth EP, Temporary High, was produced by Matt Good (Hollywood Undead, Sleeping With Sirens) and blends energetic pop and visceral metalcore into an evocative sound.
Engaging frontman Nathanael Pulley and dynamic guitarist Ben Koehler first came together under the Archers banner in 2015, with the later addition of funk and R&B-loving bassist and vocalist Oscar Porter and hard rock-weaned drummer Grayson Mesarosh crystalizing the band’s definitive line-up. Each of the four came into heavy music via different gateways, from a mixture of metalcore and melodic rock bands as diverse as the Vans Warped Tour line-up, from pop-punk hooks to devastating breakdowns.
Determination, passion, and authenticity are the beating heart of Archers. Even as Archers’ mission expands worldwide, the quartet is determined to remain true to themselves. This is evident to their most diehard fans, and it is precisely why what they are doing connects so profoundly.
ARCHERS: Nathanael Pulley – Vocals Ben Koehler – Guitar Oscar Porter – Bass/Vocals Grayson Mesarosh – Drums
Photography: Kevin Eisenlord, Anderson Hildebrando
Brazilian death metal force Ophiolatry is unveiling their new music video for “Jesus Complex”, the second single from their upcoming album “Serpent’s Verdict,” set for release on June 6, 2025, through WormHoleDeath Records. The video represents the band’s next visual offering to follow “Death Tour,” revealed this past April. The new video introduces viewers to the ritualistic atmosphere that defines their long-awaited return. The band shares the story behind the single:
“This story is totally terrifying: you wake up, go out, and discover that everyone is wearing a Jesus mask. His gaze pierces you deeply, transmiƫng a strange and oppressive feeling. It becomes even more suffocating when you look in the mirror and see that you are also wearing the mask. In a world where identity disintegrates under the weight of imposed doctrine, the fear of conformity is a struggle between imposed faith and one’s own identity.”
“Jesus Complex” explores themes of religious manipulation and spiritual corruption. The track combines Ophiolatry’s signature technical brutality with a newfound emphasis on tribal rhythms and atmospheric elements that showcase the band’s evolution since their acclaimed 2008 release “Transmutation”.
The creation of both the song and video emerged from a deeply personal creative process for the band. The release of “Jesus Complex” marks the next chapter in what the band describes as ‘a communion between sound and image’, with each element of “Serpent’s Verdict” designed to function as part of a larger ritualistic experience. Fans of Death, Deicide, and Cryptopsy are encouraged to immerse themselves in this initial offering while anticipating the full album’s release in June.
Album Recording Credits: All songs performed and composed by Ophiolatry. Mastering: Dan Swanö – http://www.unisound.se Artwork: LouLou – http://www.louloufineart.com Pre-Production: Steve Rumpli & Ophiolatry Production, Recording & Mixing: Diego Santiago Studio: Satori Estudio Photography: Kevin Eisenlord, Anderson Hildebrando Graphic Layout: Beto Mustafa Mask Sculpting by: Herman Silesky
Album Band Line Up: Jaime Veron – Lead Vocals Diego Santiago – Bass George “Dog” Duarte – Drums Fred Barros – Guitars
Alternative rock band Violet Breed released their third single, “Endless Days.” The track features an electrifying collaboration with Brian Wheat, founder and bassist of the multi-platinum selling rock band Tesla, and rising singer-songwriter AleX.
With “Endless Days,” Violet Breed charges back into the spotlight, delivering a dynamic blend of heavy alternative rock, razor-sharp production, and raw emotion. Marked by infectious melodies and bold, no-nonsense songwriting, the single captures the band’s signature edge with a renewed sense of urgency. The track’s intense energy and assertive sound hit hard—making you want to dive back in and listen over and over again..
Thematically,“Endless Days” reflects the universal desire to break free from the monotony and pressures of everyday life. It’s a call to persevere, push forward, and escape the grip of the mundane—a message that resonates now more than ever.
The release follows the band’s strong momentum, building on the success of their first two singles:
“Awake” reached #14 on the SMR Charts and #28 on Mediabase Activator
“10 Years Sober” charted at #24 on SMR and #36 on Mediabase Activator
Combined, their first two music videos have garnered over half a million views
Violet Breed continues to prove they’re a force in modern rock—unapologetically bold, refreshingly real, and unafraid to push boundaries.
“Endless Days” is available on all major streaming platforms!
Violet Breed represents a powerful collaboration between Wheat, a seasoned rock icon, and AleX, a fresh and dynamic voice in the music industry. The pair have spent the last five years meticulously crafting an album that draws from their own life experiences, creating music that resonates with listeners of all ages. With honest and emotive lyrics, Violet Breed’s sound blends rich rock and pop influences, promising a unique and compelling listening experience.
The debut album, which features Tesla’s own guitarist Dave Rude on guitars, will showcase the musical prowess of the duo. Fans of both Tesla and AleX will be eager to hear the new material, as Violet Breed looks to make a significant impact on the global music scene.
Brian and AleX are able to tap into experiences from these diverse generations, which add to the depth of the music they produce. Their passion and inspiration for music is born from a shared love for records by The Beatles, Paul McCartney, Queen, and My Chemical Romance. Influences from these bands is subtly interwoven into their music.
Over his successful forty years in the music industry, Brian has crafted an enviable music career. Performing live, author to autobiography – ‘Son Of A Milkman’ and managing the multi-platinum selling rock band Tesla, alongside side projects such as SouL MotoR and now Violet Breed. Brian has maintained an impressive consistency in the music industry over multiple decades resulting in an abundance of sell-out tours across the US and world.
Over the last ten years, Brian has acted as a close mentor and peer to AleX. Notably being a huge influence in the studio, producing and co-writing songs. His oversight has helped refine the music AleX creates and brought priceless industry for AleX to further improve his craft. With his own individual success on active rock radio, numerous successful tours and festival appearances, and constantly performing to a demanding live schedule, Brian notices the potential of AleX’s talents and commitment, and recognizes snippets of his younger self in the artist. Having displayed a unique range of vocal performances, heavily inspired by Freddie Mercury, plus a natural talent for song writing, the opportunity to form a new band seemed inevitable.
Rick Monroe and the Hitmen’s latest single, “Wounds” is a gritty, soul-stirring track that showcases the band’s ability to blend raw emotion with polished craftsmanship. Co-written by Jared Weeks (Saving Abel), Scott Wilson (Saving Abel), and Alan Beeler (RMHM), the song carries a weighty authenticity, likely born from the seasoned perspectives of its creators. The collaboration feels seamless with each contributor adding depth to a narrative that’s as much about scars as it is about resilience.
“Wounds” comes out of the gate strong, collecting seven adds on impact, earning the #3 MOST ADDED spot on the SMR Chart and the #6 MOST ADDED position on the Mediabase Activator Panel.
The real standout here is the guest feature from Billy Morrison, know for his work with Billy Idol and # 1 collab with Ozzy Osbourne “Crack Cocaine.” Morrison’s presence injects a jagged edge to the track, his signature style cutting through the mix with a snarling intensity that complements Monroe’s weathered vocals. It’s a pairing that works, balancing grit with a touch of rockstar swagger.
Behind the scenes, the production is elevated by Barry Pointer’s mixing and David Donnelly’s mastering. Donnelly, a Grammy-winning maestro whose resume boasts icons like Aerosmith, Motley Crue and Red Hot Chili Peppers, brings a pristine finish to “Wounds.” The sound is expansive yet intimate – every chord and lyric lands with clarity, a testament to his expertise (highlighted by his 61st Grammy win for Best Immersive Audio Album and two Latin Grammy nods).
“Wounds” isn’t just a song; it’s a sonic gut-punch that lingers. It’s the kind of track that feels equally at home in a dimly lit bar or blasting through a car stereo on an open road. Monroe and his crew, bolstered by this all-star line-up, have crafted something that doesn’t just play – it demands to be felt. If this is a preview of what’s to come, Rick Monroe and the Hitmen are carving out a lane worth watching.
May 23 @ Dirty Boots Augusta in Augusta, GA May 24 @ Dirty Boots Augusta in Augusta, GA May 30 @ Red Rock Saloon in Madison, WI May 31 @ The Vault in Rockland, WI June 6 @ Red Rock Saloon in Milwaukee, WI June 7 @ Bristol Republic in Columbus, OH June 8 @ Music City Bike Fest in Nashville, TN June 12 @ Wild Goose Saloon in Parker, CO June 13 @ Legends Pubhouse in Chickasha, OK June 14 @ Rawk the River Festival in Tahlequah, OK June 15 @ The Cotillion in Wichita, KS June 18 @ The Majestic in Fort Smith, AR June 19 @ Red Flag in St. Louis, MO June 20 @ JD Legends in Franklin, OH June 21 @ The Vinyl Lounge in Nashville, TN June 22 @ Tooneys Music in Mccaysville, GA July 12 @ The Cabin in Park City, UT August 2 @ Uintah Basin in Celebration in Roosevelt, UT August 4 @ The Knuckle Saloon in Sturgis, SD August 6 @ The Knuckle Saloon in Sturgis, SD August 7 @ Sturgis Ralley in Sturgis, SD August 8 @ Sturgis Ralley in Sturgis, SD August 9 @ Sturgis Bike Rally in Sturgis, SD August 21 @ Bikes on 100 Block in Council Bluffs, IA
The birth of the Hitmen. For years Rick Monroe has been a solo artist hiring players as needed and doing the Nashville shuffle of interchangeable bands, but during covid everything changed. In 2020, Rick and the band, with Bobby Perkins & Alan Beeler, were set to have an amazing year starting off with a West Coast tour when the world shut down. Instead of everyone going their own way, they all stuck together and started streaming live shows from their basements, garages and living rooms. At the same time Rick and Alan Beeler started a standing Tuesday writing meeting which eventually became the bulk of their current album. Through some mutual friends, Rick met Malcolm Springer and they decided to track a few songs and see how it went. Once in the studio it was obvious that this was quickly becoming more of a band situation and when Malcolm brought Jason Bohl in, the sound finally came together. Rick joked one night about how the band was killing it and bam- someone said “The Hitmen”- and that was that.
THE ROCK ALCHEMIST – Italian Rock Band from Turin with a strong sonic identity that blends modern rock with progressive, hard, alternative, and pop elements!
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 