Alternative heavy artist Sorry X released her highly anticipated debut album, EXES, today via SBG Records. The record marks a defining moment in the artist’s evolution, capturing both personal transformation and creative discovery.
Written during a period of intense heartbreak and self-reflection, EXESchronicles the emotional aftermath of lost relationships while showcasing the sound that would ultimately define Sorry X’s place within the heavy music landscape. Blending raw vulnerability with crushing intensity, the album serves as both a deeply personal statement and a bold artistic arrival.
“This album was critical in helping me find my sound,” says Alexa Graves of Sorry X. “It was written through intense heartbreak and the growth that followed, but it was also the record that helped me find my place within heavy music. It’s a Sorry X origin story.”
In support of the release, Sorry X has joined The Art of Love & Power Tour alongside Of Virtue and Savage Hands. The tour will introduce audiences across the country to the artist’s energetic live performance and emotionally charged songs.
Sorry X is an emerging force from Phoenix, Arizona, led by vocalist and songwriter Alexa Graves. In a remarkably short time, the project has amassed more than 20+ million independent streams and over 4 million views across TikTok and Instagram, building a rapidly growing audience through authentic storytelling and a fresh perspective on modern rock music.
Already being championed as “the next generation of Active Rock,”Sorry X is bringing a youthful and contemporary edge to the genre. The project is managed by Gary Avila, whose career includes work with bands such as Papa Roach, while the visual identity has been shaped by creative talent Shan Dan, known for work with Volbeat and Greta Van Fleet.
Produced by Billboard-charting producer Hiram Hernandez and Shea Moore, with co-writing from Tobin Esperance (of Papa Roach), “EXESrepresents the culmination of Alexa’s artistic growth and the clearest statement yet of where Sorry X is headed. Throughout the album, themes of loss, resilience, identity, and self-discovery are woven into a powerful collection of songs that balance vulnerability with strength.
With EXES, Sorry X delivers her most authentic and fully realized work to date, a record born from heartbreak but ultimately defined by empowerment, evolution, and finding one’s voice.
EXES is available on all major streaming platforms via SBG Records. Please get in touch if you would like to review the record or interview Alexa.
July 27 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon July 28 – Portland, OR – Hawthorne July 30 – Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge August 1 – Denver, CO – Marquis August 2 – Colorado Springs, CO – Black Sheep August 4 – St Louis, MO – The Duck Room August 5 – Minneapolis, MN – Amsterdam August 6 – Milwaukee, WI – X-Ray Arcade August 7 – Chicago, IL – Reggie’s August 8 – Detroit, MI – Sanctuary August 9 – Columbus, OH – Ace of Cups August 11 – Buffalo, NY – Rec Room August 13 – Hartford, CT – Webster Underground August 14 – Worcester, MA – Palladium Upstairs August 15 – Philadelphia, PA – The Foundry August 16 – Richmond, VA – Canal Club August 18 – Baltimore, MD – Ottobar August 19 – Pittsburgh, PA – Preserving Underground August 21 – Nashville, TN – The End
Florida rock band Gunshine have released their new album, Grand Rising, along with the focus track “Capt’n Save A Hoe” via vnclm_ / Create Music Group. With Grand Rising, Gunshine raise the bar yet again in an exciting evolution of the band. The album takes listeners on a dynamic journey filled with genre-bending twists and turns, shifting moods, and unexpected vibes—all while staying true to the core elements that set Gunshine apart. Featuring 13 tracks, each single-worthy in its own right, Grand Rising is poised to become a modern-day rock classic.
“I’m very proud of this record, it’s definitely fresh and original. As we continue to put out music, I think our fans and other listeners will see that we are not boxed into one sound or one ‘thing’. We love being creative and making true art, just writing whatever comes out. I’m super stoked for everyone to hear this record!” says Austin Ingerman.
He continues, “‘Capt’n Save a Hoe‘ blends rock, hip hop, and funk elements with a groove that sets the tone throughout the track. Lyrically it’s a reminder to not get dragged down by a relationship that’s no longer serving you. I had fun with the production on this one and added a lot of hip hop inspired layers. The main groove was actually inspired by Michael McDonald’s ‘I Keep Forgettin”. I’ve always liked songs that blend multiple genres and flavors, and we definitely did that on this song.”
“We tracked the whole record, (except “Goth Girl” and “Single Looks Good On You”), in Las Vegas with producer/mixer Chris Collier (Korn, Mick Mars, Whitesnake, Lynchmob). I’ve been working with Chris for about 9 years now. He’s incredibly talented, has a great ear, and adds a heavy hitting production value that makes the songs sonically translate very well.”
Grand Rising Finite Goth Girl Single Looks Good On You My Oh Miley Mystery Man Down Leave the Light On I Know You Love Me Capt’n Save a Hoe Shark Lounge (feat. Michael Starr) Valentine Table Dancing
Under the neon lights of Miami’s streets love burns bright and is fast extinguished in a city that never sleeps. In the new single and video for “Shadow of Your Kiss”, V.B.O. expose the light and shade that arises when deep connections are formed and severed in this urban landscape. “Shadow of Your Kiss” arrives alongside V.B.O.‘s debut full length Vice Business Only, out now via Reigning Phoenix Music.
“‘Shadow of Your Kiss’ is the fourth official video by Vice Business Only, telling the story of a love that ignites and fades within the frenzy and chaos of an American metropolis.” Explains Francesco Cavalieri..
“The track captures the emotional intensity of a relationship shaped by fast-paced lives, sleepless nights, and moments that burn bright before disappearing. Love is a central element in life, and it holds the same importance in our music. Like all powerful emotions, it carries both passion and pain — leaving behind memories that are beautiful, intense, and impossible to erase. This song is a reflection of that duality: the light and the darkness that every unforgettable connection leaves behind.”
With eerie bass tones and retro-synth arpeggios, “Shadow of Your Kiss” explores the centrality of love in our lives and the powerful emotions that accompany it. Risers and vocoders enhance the mood as the dynamics ebb and flow across the track. The catchy lead melody hook and vocal lines throughout “Shadow of Your Kiss” inject an anthemic touch that is matched with the electronic textures.
Vice Business Only was recorded at LSD-Studios (Lübeck, Germany), produced, mixed and mastered by Lasse Lammert. Photography is by Onofrio Petronella and Tommaso Barletta, with the album cover artwork design by V.B.O.
Vice Business Only Tracklist: 1. VBO x Vesti la Giubba 2. Bring on the Fire 3. Waiting for the Dawn 4. Lovers on the Run 5. Surrendered 6. Fire Fire 7. Shadow of Your Kiss 8. Monsters! 9. The Wild Boys
About V.B.O.:
VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) is a musical project founded in 2023 by Francesco Cavalieri, best known as the frontman of the power metal band WIND ROSE, together with electronic music producer Simone Giusti. The project marks a bold artistic shift for Cavalieri, moving from fantasy-driven metal into a modern, urban, and cinematic soundscape.
The band’s lineup is completed by Claudio Falconcini (guitar), Federico Meranda (keyboards), and Angelo Carmignani (drums), combining diverse musical backgrounds into a cohesive identity.
V.B.O. blends retro-futuristic synthwave with rock and metal, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and electrifyingly modern. Inspired by Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Daft Punk, and Justice, the band combines analog-style synths, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals into a polished, immersive experience.
At the core of V.B.O. lies a neon-drenched vision of excess, elegance, and cinematic nightlife—echoing the glamour and danger of cities like Miami. Themes of power, luxury, passion, and excess define the project, presenting the band almost as a stylized gang where image and attitude are as essential as the music.
The band made its live debut in January 2026 at the 70000 Tons of Metal festival in the United States, stepping onto one of the world’s most recognized international stages.
Since its inception, V.B.O. has positioned itself as a distinctive force in contemporary music, merging rock and metal energy with electronic groove and texture. More than a band, Vice Business Only delivers a complete audiovisual experience—a high-stakes journey through a retro-futuristic universe where the rhythm never slows and the attitude is larger than life.
With the release of their searing new single ‘Hurricane‘ on 24th July, Mason Hill also announce the release of their highly anticipated new album ‘World So Wonderful’ in October. The album was recorded with Dan Weller, and is available for preorder now.
Matthew Ward (bass): “A couple of years ago this album seemed like it would be an impossible task. To be sitting here, finally discussing launching the pre order feels like we just climbed Everest and made it to the top!
This album is the next step in the evolution of Mason Hill, it’s more fierce, more refined, and hungrier than ever. This one is for everyone that kept believing in Mason Hill. I can’t wait for everyone to get their hands on it.”
Tom Ward (vocals): “We have poured our heart into this album and we’re all truly elated with the finished product – I feel the exciting synergy that we’ve found in this writing relationship has delivered a new and revitalised Mason Hill.
Whether you’re a long-term fan, or recently converted ,there is honestly something for everyone on this album, with riffs so crunchy you’ll need a neck brace after your first listen.
Coming into this as a newbie, working with Dan Weller was an amazing experience, he really helped me unlock my own style and take a new approach to writing which I’m forever grateful for. This is a dream for me and I’m super proud of the boys and can’t wait to unleash it on the world.“
Mason Hill have been no strangers to adversity over their 10-year existence. They’ve endured false starts, botched record deals and a six-year gap between 2015’s eponymous debut EP and the release of ‘Against The Wall’. Even the latter landed during the height of the Covid pandemic, meaning the band weren’t initially able to tour in support of it. The departure of former singer Scott Taylor at the end of 2023 was just the latest obstacle they had to overcome.
“There have been times over the years when we weren’t even sure we’d be able to keep on being a band,” says James Bird. “Even just before Tom came in, wwere so close to saying, ‘Well, we tried, but let’s call it a day.’ But there’s a stubbornness and determination and passion in us that has kept us going.The new music was obviously still Mason Hill, but we didn’t want it to be a copy of the first album”, he adds. “All the good stuff and the bad stuff, I’m glad it happened in a sense,” adds James. “Because without it we wouldn’t be in this place we’re in right now, talking about new songs, which I couldn’t be more excited about. We’re so ready to get back out there. This is who we are now. This is Mason Hill.”
Live shows: 7 – 9th Aug Firevolt Festival, Stockport 13th Nov Glasgow Barrowlands supporting Skindred
Tom Ward vocals James Bird guitarist Marc Montgomery guitarist Matt Ward bassist Craig McFetridge drums
STORMBRINGER release their new single “Energy”, out now, new album ‘Transcendence‘ is out on 4th September on Attic Records.
“Energy” explores hidden struggles beneath an uplifting exterior, focusing on the importance of recognising internal battles and transforming negative experiences into something constructive.
The band state: “‘Energy’ is one of those songs that people will probably misinterpret at first. The title, the pace, and the intensity of the music can make it seem like it’s about someone who’s vibrant, confident, and full of life. In reality, it’s quite the opposite. The song was inspired by someone going through an extremely difficult period, and much of what I wrote came from witnessing that experience firsthand. It was a deeply distressing situation that affected everyone around it, and the emotional weight of those events stayed with me long after. Out of respect for the people involved, I’ve never gone into the specifics, but the song comes from a very dark and very real place. What interests me most about ‘Energy’ is the contrast between its sound and its meaning. Musically, it’s urgent, driving, and full of momentum, but beneath that is a story about turmoil, vulnerability, and the impact of watching someone struggle. That tension between what you hear and what the song is actually saying is at the heart of what ‘Energy’ means to me.”
Following the journey of their previous albums, Stormbringer continue to evolve with ‘Transcendence’ – a record that explores adversity, resilience, self-acceptance and the complex relationship between personal struggles and the world around us.
Musically, the album represents a further evolution of the band’s signature sound, combining crushing riffs, powerful melodies and emotionally charged performances. Stormbringer continue to embrace their heavy rock foundations while pushing their songwriting into new and more expansive territory.
“Every album captures a moment in time,” explains vocalist Mike Stockley. “Transcendence is about growth through adversity. It’s about recognising and accepting the darkness without allowing it to define you. The album confronts life’s struggles on both a personal and societal level, exploring the challenges we face as individuals while also reflecting on the world around us. These songs aren’t about offering easy answers – they’re about questioning, understanding and ultimately finding the strength to move forward.”
Produced by legendary producer Russ Russell (Napalm Death, Dimmu Borgir, At the Gates, The Wildhearts, The Exploited, Evile, The Haunted, New Model Army, Eradikator, Evil Scarecrow, Raging Speedhorn) and recorded at Parlour Studios in Kettering, Northamptonshire, Stormbringer return with their most ambitious and emotionally profound release to date.
Stormbringer UK Tour Dates: 11th Sept Roadmender, Northampton plus Brightblack, Silence Mutant 12th Sept The Old Wine Vaults plus Brightblack, Silence Mutant 25th Sept The Portland Arms, Cambridge plus Planet Fatale, Brightblack 26th Sept The Carlist, Hastings plus Planet Fatale, Silence Mutant 20th Nov B2, Norwich plus Black Transistor, Planet Fatale, Triggered Velocity 21st Nov Percy’s Rock Café, Whitchurch plus Planet Fatale, local support 27th Nov The Cobblestones, Bridgewater, plus Metallised 28th Nov Bears Cave, Bournemouth plus Brightblack, Silence Mutant As special guests to Viking Skull 29th Nov London, Cart & Horses 7th Dec West End Centre, Aldershot 8th Dec Billy Bootleggers, Nottingham 9th Dec Star And Garter, Manchester 10th Dec Bannermans, Edinburgh 11th Dec The Underground, Bradford
Stormbringer are: Mike Stockley – Vocals Ashley Smith – Guitar Darren Caven-Quantrill – Guitar Barney Byron – Bass Jon Paul Quantrill – Drums
Produced by: Russ Russell Recorded at: Parlour Studios, Kettering, Northamptonshire
CHANGELING, the progressive death metal band led by guitarist Tom “Fountainhead” Geldschläger (ex-Obscura), is releasing a blindfolded guitar playthrough of “World? What World?”. Shot in studio and taken from the band’s debut album, Changeling, the playthrough turns the song into a single uninterrupted performance, with Fountainhead navigating its shifting time signatures and tremolo-picked runs entirely by feel.
Watch the blindfolded guitar playthrough of “World? What World?” on FountainheadTV:
“World? What World?” is one of the most punishing songs on Changeling. Built on 260 bpm blast beats and a brass arrangement scored for an ensemble of Wagnerian tubas, it stages a confrontation with fear and the unconscious mind, Losing the visual reference point of the fretboard turns the new guitar playthrough into a demonstration of muscle memory as much as musicianship, a fitting angle for a song built around the collapse of perceptual certainty.
Changeling moves through four distinct chapters. The album opens in tech-death vocabulary, rooted in Fountainhead’s work on Obscura’s album Akroasis. It closes with “Anathema”, the 16-minute successor to his own “Weltseele.”
Catch Changeling on the band’s first European headline tour this November with Obsidian Tide.
CHANGELING 2026 European Headline TOUR? WHAT TOUR?with Obsidian Tide
Fountainhead, the musical alter-ego of Berlin-based musician Tom Geldschläger, is a celebrated figure across diverse music landscapes. Known for his expansive involvement in the music industry, Tom has contributed to over a hundred releases in capacities ranging from guitarist to mixing/mastering engineer, and occasionally even as an oud-player. He has worked with globally recognized artists such as Obscura, Belphegor, Marco Minnemann, Defeated Sanity, Amogh Symphony, Hannes Grossmann, Voodoogods, Christian Münzner, Nader Sadek and more. Featured in numerous international music magazines, authored several books of non-fiction and musical notation, Tom has also been instrumental in integrating the fretless guitar into extreme metal genres.
Acclaimed as a “modern-day guitar legend,” Tom’s signature playing style and adventurous genre-defying compositions highlight his fearless approach to music. His endorsements include prestigious brands like Aristides Guitars, Elixir Strings, and Bare Knuckle Pickups. Additionally, Tom is a sought-after clinician and speaker, focusing on creativity, music production, and musician’s mental health, remaining at the forefront of spatial and 360-degree audio production.
In a significant development in early 2024, Fountainhead, now branded under the name CHANGELING for his new project and album, signed with the label Season of Mist. This venture marks a new chapter in Tom’s career, amplifying his visionary approach to music. Accompanied by an all-star band featuring members from Fear Factory, Alkaloid, and Virvum, the project CHANGELING showcases a 65-minute concept album that elevates Tom’s artistry.
The album, sharing its name with the project, blends progressive metal, death metal, jazz/fusion, and world music, enriched with complex orchestrations by a 40-piece ensemble of guest musicians. It includes the eagerly anticipated “Part 2” of his renowned composition “Weltseele,” an orchestral metal epic from Obscura’s billboard-chart-entering “Akroasis” album, which broadly introduced Fountainhead to the metal community in 2016.
This year also sees Tom headlining his first-ever solo tour in India, featuring music from CHANGELING and his diverse discography, promising an unparalleled sonic journey for his fans and new listeners alike.
Core Lineup: Tom Fountainhead (ex-Obscura, Amogh Symphony, Belphegor, Defeated Sanity) – Fretted & fretless electric & acoustic guitars, oud, keyboards, composition and arrangements Mike Heller (Fear Factory, Malignancy, Raven) – Drums Arran McSporran (Vipassi, Virvum) – Fretless bass Morean (Alkaloid, Dark Fortress) – Lead vocals & lyrics
Guest Musicians: Bill Hudson (Trans-siberian Orchestra, Doro, I am Morbid) – Guest guitar solo Jason Gobel (ex-Cynic, ex-Monstrosity)- Guest guitar solo Andy Laroque (ex-Death, King Diamond) – Guest guitar solo Yatziv Caspi (ex-Orphaned Land) – Tabla, hangdrum, dabouka, riq & shakers Ally Storch (Subway To Sally)- Violins, viola & cello James Dorton (The Faceless, NeObliviscaris, Black Crown Initate) – Spoken words Alexander Kerski (Vianova)- Backing & harmony vocals Matthias Alexander Preisinger – Piano and glockenspiel, violins & viola Martin Matiasovic – Horns & Wagnerian Tube Jan Ferdinand – Vibraphone & marimba Chris Rützel – Flutes Ivar Ludvig Nitzler – Cello Shiho Murano – Tuba Juliane Erding – Wagnerian tube & horn Eduard Cortez – Wagnerian tube & horn Tillmann Schulz – Wagnerian tube & horn Ava Bonam – Female vocals Moran Magal – Piano Cydney McQuillan-Grace, Lauren Gill, Shannon Bedford, Sara Robalo; Tenor and Bari – Ben Francis, John Schaffer, Alice Williams, Cyd McQuillan-Grace; Alto – Lauren Gill, Sara Robalo; Tenor and Bass – James Schouten & John Schaffer – Choir vocals Krassimir Jossifov – Trumpet Brandt Attema – Trombones & bass trombones Kristian Petkov – Bassoon Stefan Prost – Church organ Seonghyeon Park – Clarinet Arnfried Falk – Oboe Rouven Haliti – Upright bass Dalai Cellai – Cello
Production Credits: Produced & Engineered by Tom Fountainhead. Mixed by Tom Fountainhead at FountainheadHQ. Mastered by Leon Schmidt at his home studio & FountainheadHQ.
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
