Immerse yourself in a musical phenomenon that is second to none: The 30th anniversary of AMORPHIS‘ landmark album “Tales From The Thousand Lakes” is celebrated with a live recording that sets new standards in terms of brilliance and intensity. This unique release, available on Blu-ray+CD and vinyl, was recorded at the iconic Tavastia Club in Helsinki, Finland, in chronological order. Available from July 12, 2024 via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), this release manifests AMORPHIS‘ unparalleled dynamism and artistic uniqueness. Rarely has the raw power and emotional depth of a live performance been captured so authentically as on this sonic memento and extraordinary concert film.
Get in the mood for the upcoming “Tales…” celebrations, and watch the ‘Drowned Maid’ live video, which is also part of the forthcoming Blu-ray.
“‘Drowned Maid’ is classic ’90s crossover AMORPHIS. Retrospectively, sporting primitive keyboards and sound effects, the marriage of doomy death metal and folk-prog somehow does the trick,” recalls bassist Olli-Pekka Laine. “This song was a live favourite back then, and it’s still a pleasure to play it to this day!”
Don’t forget to subscribe to Reigning Phoenix Music on YouTube to stay updated & to listen to ‘Drowned Maid (Live At Tavastia)’ as well as other new tracks in the “RPM New Releases” playlist on Spotify: https://rpm.link/spotifynewreleasesPR
Pre-order “Tales From The Thousand Lakes (Live At Tavastia)” in the physical format of your choice, pre-save it on your favourite DSP or pre-order it digitally to receive ‘Drowned Maid (Live At Tavastia)’ instantly now, here: https://amorphis.rpm.link/taleslivePR
Artwork by Jean-Emmanuel “Valnoir” Simoulin
“Tales From The Thousand Lakes (Live At Tavastia)” – Track Listing:
Thousand Lakes
Into Hiding
The Castaway
First Doom
Black Winter Day
Drowned Maid
In The Beginning
Forgotten Sunrise
To Father’s Cabin
Magic And Mayhem
Vulgar Necrolatry
My Kantele
AMORPHIS are: Tomi Joutsen | vocals Esa Holopainen | guitars Tomi Koivusaari | guitars Olli-Pekka Laine | bass Santeri Kallio | keyboards Jan Rechberger | drums
The human design is strange in a very specific way: It is based on psychological archetypes that seem to fit together like a lock and key. Unfortunately, however, this coding results in a paralyzing standstill: Some permanently radiate their emotional status, others permanently absorb such streams and reflect them as new parts of themselves. From this we have created the idea of a superperson: What if someone could not only take on our emotional distress, but also remove it from us in the process? Someone who not only cries with the mourners, but for them, as an emotional proxy, so to speak?
The idea persisted and still causes millions of people around the world to implore a divine power in the face of suffering and grievance, instead of taking matters into their own hands or persistently tackling those who are at the helm.
With He Cries, a rather melancholic song from the upcoming album Hush that flows into the ear like a black river, THE MOURNING turn their attention to precisely this seemingly universal human quirk. The prog metallers around the singing philosopher Johnny Ray and his constant duet partner Eliana Blanchard achieve something that one would not initially expect from hard prog: Set in motion by the soulful intro of keyboardist Alex Nasla (ex Witherfall), the band opens the window to a soundscape in which the world’s cries of despair are forming mountains – in an acoustic beauty and harmony that is otherwise more likely to be created by combined chants of prayer, which the song is also faintly reminiscent of. And thus one thing quickly becomes clear: The Mourning are not questioning faith itself. They merely advocate that man-made problems should also be solved by us, not God.
It’s songs like this that can greatly empower us by bringing back to mind that we, too, possess the power of creation.
What started out as a simple recording project of vocalist and composer Johnny Ray and drummer Jason Berlin (son of famous bassist Jeff Berlin) in Tampa, Florida, in 2017, became a journey of self-discovery, soon attracting kindred spirits until the band was complete with all-rounder Alex Nasla (ex Witherfall, producer, vocalist and keyboardist), Italian musician and composer Francesco Pinter (guitar), lead vocalist Eliana Blanchard and guitarist Phillip Colacecchi.
After the release of their quite experimental EP Theosis in 2018, in which the band embarked on a journey to discover their true sound and a message of their own, The Mourning are now ready to present their first full-length album Hush, to be released on June 24, 2024. It shines thanks to a much heavier emphasis on guitars, including the use of slap guitar, grooving riffs, angelic classical guitar, face-melting guitar solos and much more in the band’s sound that was originally highly influenced by Opeth, Steven Wilson and Haken, as they underline: “On this album we also took the harmonies to the next level with the soulful vocals of Eliana Blanchard, giving the songs a much richer harmonic sound and unique sonic identity.” The striking energy between the contrasting voices elevates the experience beyond the one-dimensional atmosphere of the typical, inviting the listener to join the band on their turbulent voyage, on which they combine the cold precision of progressive metal with raw emotional energy: “We are trying to give listeners insight with the backdrop of a virtuous soundscape that opens the mind to new ideas, concepts, and inner growth. Some albums take your hand on its journey – Hush takes you on an introspective journey of your self.” And one thing is absolutely clear: This is only the beginning of a grand journey for The Mourning.
The Mourning’s first full-length album Hush is a prog journey influenced by the greats of progressive metal, an album of self-discovery, observations about the nature of existence, societal ills, and overcoming adversity – out June 24, 2024, and ready to pre-save now at:
Finnish dark metallic hardcore act SARS have announced their debut album “Nothing Hurts Quite Like Life”, due to be released via Time To Kill Records on July 12th 2024.
“Nothing Hurts Quite Like Life” consists of 10 punishing tracks with a total run time of 36 minutes. The band look at hardcore through “a death/thrash metal kid’s” lens, so attention is paid to songwriting and arrangements too without forgetting the chugs. With three of the members as backing vocalists (Timo, Sami & Juuso) joining in, the band is able to lift Antti’s screams to a new level. Also drawing from a wide variety of music beyond the hardcore umbrella, SARS aim to keep tracks interesting all the time and are not afraid to introduce some melodies or even some atmospheric elements into the music.
The first single “Bitter Soil” is now available HERE.
Tracklist:
1. So Cold 2. Stench of Profit 3. Nothing Hurts Quite Like Life 4. Away From My Mind 5. Solstice 6. Blightbearer 7. Bitter soil 8. Not for the Violence 9. It Still Hurts 10. Gray
Originating from the vibrant music scene of Turku, Finland,SARS emerged in 2016 as a collective vision to forge a sound rooted in “Hatebreed inspired metallic hardcore”. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that the band took its definitive form, with the foundational trio of Timo Heikkilä (drums), Sami Leinonen (guitar), and Juuso Linsamo (guitar) laying the groundwork for what would become a powerful musical force.
The ensemble gained further momentum in 2020 with the addition of the dynamic vocalist, Antti Honkanen, bringing a visceral energy to their evolving sound. The final piece of the puzzle fell into place later that year when bassist Vilho Laaksonen joined, solidifying the band’s lineup. SARS‘ initial foray into the music scene saw them collaborate with the legendary Keijo Niinimaa (known for his work with Rotten Sound, Morbid Evils, and Goatburner). This collaboration resulted in the release of their first three singles, during which Keijo shared vocal duties with Antti. Notably, Keijo also took on the roles of tracking and producing the first two singles, contributing his wealth of experience to shape the band’s early sonic identity.
However, the journey took an unexpected turn in 2022 when Keijo, facing scheduling conflicts and commitments to his other well-established projects, had to step away from SARS. Despite his departure, the band continued to evolve, drawing on the foundation laid during their collaboration with Keijo. SARS stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and evolution within the music scene, carving their path with a blend of metallic hardcore and unapologetic intensity. As they forge ahead, the band remains poised to leave an indelible mark on the global heavy music landscape.
For fans of: Hatebreed, Harms Way, Knocked Loose, Incendiary
Line-up:
Antti Honkanen – Vocals Juuso Linsamo – Guitar & backing vocals Sami Leinonen – Guitar & backing vocals Vilho Laaksonen – Bass Timo Heikkilä – Drums & backing vocals
Ski parties visit Austria for its powdered slopes, but when Insanity Alert banded together around Innsbruck in 2011, they had a different type of shredding in mind. The band’s destructive appetite for crossover thrash is only rivaled by their unquenchable thirst for ice-cold beer and a jonesing for good bud(s).
Insanity Alert keep their high-minded antics coming on their new EP. Moshemian Thrashody comes out tomorrow Friday, May 17, on Season of Mist. But you can crack into this fresh four-pack today by listening to the full album stream on our YouTube channel.
Moshemian Thrashody shows that Insanity Alert are still nothing but a good time. These wild men waste no time stage diving into the mosh pit with a frothy spin on “Welcome to the Jungle”. Their new EP gets into plenty more of their old tricks, too. Iron Maiden would be scared silly by how fast Dave of Death shreds through “Beer in the Park”.
“We think of our renditions as tributes to the greatness of the original songs”, says Insanity Alert. “Mixing their greatness with our blend of speed, fun, brutality and weirdness just feels right”. Just like the morning after an all-night rager, Insanity Alert are full of surprises. When “Beerless Fiesta” opens with a faint but familiar waft of saxophone, it throws you for a loop, kind of like an edible that your friends swore was just a regular old brownie. Wait, are they about to take on…George Michael?
“I’m never gonna drink again”, Heavy Kevy screams in agony, as if wrapped around the toilet.
Cover art by James Callahan / Barf Comics
Even one hell of a hangover isn’t enough to stop Insanity Alert from partying like it’s the ’80s. On Moshemian Thrashody, the band still goes anywhere the weed blows. Of course, if you’re going to come for Queen, then you best not miss. But these guys hit all the right notes. Don Melanzani chugs D-beats. Slapmaster Puke burps out delicious bass grooves. As if by some especially potent magic mushroom, Galileo is transformed into Ronnie James Dio.
“So you think I’m a stoner that never complies?”, Heavy Kevy spits as if shooting a snot rocket. Now, that’s not far from the truth. But everybody knows that thrashers do it better.
“Our new EPis full of killer tunes that we threw in our drunken 420 blender” Insanity Alert says. “Moshemian Thrashody rides the thin line between familiar and super awkward – like getting shitfaced with your favorite high school teacher or masturbating for the first time with your other hand. Enjoy!”
Track-list
1. Welcome To The Moshpit (2:17) 2. Beer In The Park (4:24) 3. Beerless Fiesta (2:10) [WATCH] 4. Moshemian Thrashody (3:43) [WATCH] Total runtime: 12:33
There’s only one way to welcome a new album from Insanity Alert: a summerlong tour! Crack open some beers, roll up a spliff and prepare to meet the wall of death when the band debut Moshemian Thrashody at some of Europe’s biggest and heaviest festivals.
May 24 @ Chemnitz, DE @ Chemnitz Metal Culture [TICKETS] May 25 – Schönenberg, DE @ Iron Fest Open Air [TICKETS] May 31 – Innsbruck, AT @ Treibhaus Hometown Release Party[TICKETS] June 21 – Copenhagen, DK @ Copenhell [TICKETS] July 5 – Besancon, FR @ Les Passagers Du Zinc [TICKETS] July 6 – Notre-Dame-d’Oé , FR @ Riip Fest 8 [TICKETS] July 20 – Bertingen, DE @ Rock Unter Den Eichen [TICKETS] August 17 – Dinkelsbühl, DE @ Summer Breeze Open Air [TICKETS] August 19 – Brescia, Italy @ Festa di Radio Ondo D’urto [TICKETS] August 31 – Bruck an der Mur, AT @ Daaark Fest September 6 – Hüttikon, CH @ Meh Suff! Metal Festival [TICKETS] October 18 – Sélestat, FR @ Rock Your Brain Fest 2024 [TICKETS] October 19 – Paris, FR @ Glazart [TICKETS]
[Movie trailer voice] In a world that’s plagued by war, natural disasters and TikTok dance challenges, one band are hell-bent on partying like there’s no tomorrow. Sure, the hangovers might hit a little harder now that they’re four albums in. But on Moshemian Thrashody, Insanity Alert are still nothing but a good time.
Ski parties visit Austria for its powdered slopes, but when Insanity Alert banded together from around Innsbruck in 2011, these adrenaline junkies had a different, more dangerous type of shredding in mind. Their destructive appetite for ‘80s crossover thrash is only rivaled by an unquenchable thirst for ice-cold beer.
While under the influence of older party monsters like Suicidal Tendencies and Municipal Waste, Insanity Alert roll their riffs with the same strand of humor as labelmates Cannabis Corpse. Their songs parody everyone from perennial punching bags like David Guetta and Milli Vanilli to sacred cows Iron Maiden.
“We think of our renditions as tributes to the greatness of the original songs”, the band says. “Mixing their greatness with our blend of speed, fun, brutality and weirdness just feels right.
On the strength of their demo tape alone, Insanity Alert sent skate punks and metalheads running into the pit. First Diagnosis was quickly confirmed by follow-up EP Second Opinion. Critics properly diagnosed their self-titled full-length as a much-needed dose of derangement, but the band has upped their prescription of snot-nosed speed and grinding d-beats with each release.
Moshburger was served up in 2016 while Insanity Alert were on tour with Hatebreed, Madball, Terror and Power Trip. They then shared a 666-Pack with festivalgoers at Wacken Open Air. With names like Slapmaster Puke and The Inphiltrator, this band will go to comically absurd lengths just to jump into the circle pit with their fans — so long as there’s a full fridge and good bud(s) waiting backstage. When Insanity Alert played the main stage at Hellfest in 2019, Dave of the Death could barely feel his fretting hand after taking one heck of a stage dive the night before.
Moshemian Thrashody keeps the festivities going with new parodies of familiar classics like Guns N’ Roses and Iron Maiden. One might surprise you, though. Lead single “Beerless Fiesta” gives the crossover thrash treatment to (checks notes) George Michael? Insanity Alert aren’t going into mosh retirement anytime soon, though. The title track sees Queen’s theatrics and raises it with a clown car full of hijinks, including a Hauwitzer guitar solo that pops off like a bottle of champagne. Don Melanzani chugs down blast beats as the band joins in an acapella gang chant about “letting it snow” with Santa Claus that’s rowdier than a German beer hall.
“These are some killer tunes that we threw in our drunken 420 blender”, says Heavy Kevy. “Moshemian Thrashody rides the thin line between familiar and super awkward – like seeing your old grandpa in the mosh pit or masturbating for the first time with your other hand”.
After almost 15 years of bringing crossover thrash to party animals everywhere, Insanity Alert will still go anywhere the weed blows.
Line-up Heavy Kevy – Vocals Don Melanzani – Drums The Inphiltrator – Guitar The Dave of Death – Guitar Slapmaster Puke: Bass
Guest appearances “Welcome to the Moshpit” – Hauwitzer (guitar solo)
Recording Studio Subsound Station (Telfs, Austria)
After the announcement of the signing with Elevate Records for the upcoming long-awaited record release, Tystnaden reveal the cover and title of the new album.
As adult human beings, we’re accustomed to making decisions based on our experiences, roughly calculating some risks, and relying on predictions… We often overlook the existence and significance of black swans, which can sometimes lead to disastrous consequences. Let’s embrace uncertainty, open the eyes of our minds and hearts. Welcome to “THE BLACK SWAN”!
Artwork by Beatrice Demori
Further news on release date soon. The album will be available not only on digital platforms but also in physical format.
Line up:
Laura De Luca – Voice Giulia Coletti – Guitar Cesare Codispoti Guitar Stefano Galioto – Bass Alberto Iezzi – Drums
ALL FOR METAL‘s new single and music video, ‘Valkyries in the Sky,’ is premiering today at 6pm CET on YouTube! This song is a true heavy metal hymn marking the band’s journey as they gear up for their highly anticipated album, “Gods of Metal,” out on August 23rd, 2024, via Reigning Phoenix Music.
‘Valkyries in the Sky’ encapsulates the fierce and beautiful presence of the Valkyries, maidens sent by Odin to choose the slain on the battlefield. The powerful chorus warns, “Watch out! Valkyries in the sky! Watch out! They hear your battle cry!” This anthem guides listeners through a realm of warriors, battle, and myth, highlighting the unbreakable spirit of those who fight bravely and die, guided by Valkyries to Valhalla. This new heavy and powerful track features fierce vocals by Laura Guldemond (BURNING WITCHES) and a striking guitar solo by Tim Kanoa Hansen of INDUCTION.
Antonio, singer of the band, exclaims, “All For Metal is coming stronger than ever, and this time we brought some friends with us, Laura from Burning Witches and Tim from Induction!! We were waiting for this collab for far too long.” Tetzel, vocalist, adds, “The legendary Valkyries themselves will headbang to this song! All For Metal are back, and we will not stop – so watch out!”
With new adventures on the horizon, you can join ALL FOR METAL on this exciting journey and be a part of the unifying power of metal live this summer:
18.05. IT Trezzo sull’Adda (MI) – Adunata 21.-23.06. LT Ukmergė – Kilkim Žaibu 07.08. ES Villena – Leyendas del Rock 15. – 17.08. CZ Moravský Krumlov – Rock Castle 16. – 18.08. CH Cudrefin (VD) – Rock The Lakes 22.-24.08. Haddeby – Baltic Open Air 23.08. Hamburg – All For Metal Cruise *SOLD OUT* 24.08. Hamburg – All For Metal Cruise 04.-05.10. Geiselwind – Monster Festival 14.-21.10. ES Mallorca – Full Metal Holiday *SOLD OUT* 28.-29.12. Runkel – No Sleep After X-mas Festival
The forthcoming album “Gods of Metal” will be released as a rare limited collector’s item, featuring exclusive statues of ALL FOR METAL’s frontwarriors Tetzel and Antonio, a CD-Digipack, and a patch, with each item limited to only 500 copies. Additional bundles will include signed CD-Digipacks, tickets to the ALL FOR METAL Cruise Release Show happening August 23 & 24 in Hamburg (Germany), t-shirts, and more. These exclusive items are designed for the true metal connoisseur and are available for pre-order now at https://allformetal.rpm.link/godsofmetalPR.
As ALL FOR METAL continue to ascend in the metal world, they invite everyone to join them in this journey of heavy metal music and unity. “2024 is the year we embark on new adventures, and with RPM by our side, the sky’s the limit. It’s All For Metal… and metal for all!” echoes the band’s sentiment and vision that fuels their path forward.
ALL FOR METAL are: Tetzel | vocals Antonio Calanna | vocals Jasmin Pabst | guitars Ursula Zanichelli | guitars Florian Toma | bass Leif Jensen | drums Christina Schulz | showgirl Luisa Lohöfer | showgirl
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s ASA unveil the long-overdue release of "Collective Failure" + first music video for title-track! Check it out and stay tuned for more news! Click image to watch the video
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
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Visionary artist KIMMO KUUSNIEMI's ANCIENT STREAMING ASSEMBLY (ASA) have released “Aurora Nuclearis”, a powerful 12-minute audiovisual experience, dedicated to the Late Keyboardist Esa Kotilainen. - Click image to watch the video
Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 