After lighting up the ol’ dusty trail with Conan and Telekinetic Yeti, Weedeater are re-upping with a fresh supply of U.S. tour dates. This fall, the Cape Fear Legends will smoke stages from coast to coast with their buds in Zeke, Royal Thunder and Yes Ma’am.
To pour more Evan Williams onto the fire, along the way, for three special dates, the Weed metal trio will join forces with the mighty GWAR before headlining Day 4 of Emissions from the Monolith.
Weedeater 2026 U.S. Fall Tour Dates with Zeke, Royal Thunder & Yes Ma’am + dates supporting GWAR
September 17 – Lexington, KY @ Green Lantern % September 18 – St. Louis, MO @ Golden Record # September 19 – Davenport, IA @ Capitol Theatre $ September 20 – Grand Rapids, MI @ The Intersection $ September 22 – Memphis, TN @ Satellite Music $ September 23 – Austin, TX @ Far Out Lounge # September 24 – El Paso, TX @ Lowbrow Palace # September 25 – Tuscon, AZ @ 191 Toole # September 26 – Jacumba Springs, CA @ Jacumba Hotel # September 28 – San Diego, CA @ Casbah # September 29 – Costa Mesa, CA @ Wayfarer # September 30 – Fresno, CA @ Mario’s # October 1 – San Jose CA @ The Ritz* October 2 – Sacramento, CA @ Colonial Theatre * October 4 – Seattle, WA @ El Corazon * October 5 – Boise, ID @ Shrine Ballroom * October 7 – Colorado Springs, CO @ Black Sheep * October 8 – Lawrence, KS @ The Bottleneck * October 10 – Chicago, IL @ WC Social Club * October 11 – Youngstown, OH @ Westside Bowl ^ October 13 – Rochester, NY @ Montage Music Hall * October 14 – Reading, PA @ Reverb * October 15 – Washington, DC @ Black Cat * October 17 – Chattanooga, TN @ The Boneyard *
%with Royal Thunder $supporting GWAR #with Royal Thunder & Yes Ma’am *with Zeke, Royal Thunder & Yes Ma’am ^Weedeater only at Emissions from the Monolith
Photo credits: Morten by Cécile Delpoio – Helle by Lame Perfect – Caterina by Carlos Murga – Karmen by Metka Bakić
Morten Veland (SIRENIA, MORTEMIA and founder of TRISTANIA) released the tenth Mortemia song from ‘The Cover Collab Sessions’. A collection of cover songs featuring different guest singers for each song. This single is a rendition of California Dreamin’ originally recorded by The Mamas and the Papas, featuring Helle Bohdanova, Caterina Nix & Karmen Klinc on guest vocals. The song is available on all digital platforms as of today the 10th of July 2026.
“I’m proud and honoured to welcome Helle Bohdanova, Caterina Nix & Karmen Klinc as my special guests for ‘The Cover Collab Sessions’. It’s a pleasure having Caterina back for a second Mortemia collaboration, after we already recorded the original Mortemia song ‘Adrenalize’ together a few years ago. I have also followed the careers of Karmen and Helle for some time now, both amazing singers that I am very happy to be working with for ‘The Cover Collab Sessions’. Together with my three phenominal guests we have created a really cool metal version of this iconic song. I feel truly privileged and thankful to have Helle, Caterina and Karmen on board this project and we can’t wait to share this song with all of you. The song will be available on all digital platforms on Friday the 10th of July 2026”.
Helle Bohdanova:
“In my mind, California Dreamin’ is one of those songs that seems to have existed forever — a symbol of easy-going, carefree escape. When Morten said, ‘I always found the original to be a very melancholic tune,’ I began seeing this classic in a completely different light. I’m glad it found a new dimension through this metal version. I’ve always been drawn to the magic of voices blending together — it creates something no single voice can achieve alone. I’m deeply grateful to Morten for bringing me into this collaboration and placing me alongside the stunning voices of Cati and Carmen. If you haven’t heard the metal side of ‘California Dreamin’,’ you’re missing something special — give it a spin. You’ll be totally surprised!”
Caterina Nix:
Morten’s vision of reimagining a classic like ‘California Dreamin’ is no small feat. I’m incredibly grateful to have collaborated as a vocalist on this track and to help breathe new life into such an iconic masterpiece. The melancholy and sense of longing of the original remain, but with a modern and heavier approach. Our voices blend together so well, yet our individual selves still shine through. Working on this version of ‘California Dreamin’ was a complete and immersive experience, from recording the vocals to filming the video, every step of the process reminded me why this song has connected with so many people through the years. It was a pleasure working with Morten, Helle and Karmen and I’m proud to have contributed to a song that continues to inspire listeners across generations. I’m very proud to be part of this journey and excited to finally share it with the world!
Karmen Klinc:
“I’m truly honored to have been invited by Morten to be part of this Mortemia collaboration.It was a real pleasure to lend my voice to a brand new metal interpretation of the timeless classic “California Dreamin’”. Bringing a fresh, heavier sound to such an iconic song was an incredible experience.I also feel very grateful to share this release with the amazingly talented Helle and Cati. It’s a privilege to stand alongside such wonderful vocalists.I can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created together. Don’t miss this unique version of the song. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it!”
During the early stages of the Covid 19 pandemic Norwegian multi-instrumentalist, producer and artist Morten Veland decided to activate his solo project Mortemia , this time with a brand new concept consisting of collaborations with multiple guest singers. ‘The Pandemic Pandemonium Sessions’ was a series of singles released on a monthly basis, each song featuring a well known and highly profiled guest singer from the metal scene. Following next was ‘The Covid Aftermath Sessions’, yet another album featuring 12 songs with 12 different guest singers. Now Mortemia is ready to endeavor on his third album in the collaboration format entitled ‘The Cover Collab Sessions’, once more the project will feature multiple amazing guest singers. This will be, as the title suggests an album consisting of cover songs solely. All re-arranged and performed in Mortemia’s signature style.
So far the following singers has contributed for his collaborations:
Madeleine Liljestam (Eleine) Marcela Bovio (Stream of Passion, Ayreon, MaYaN) Alessia Scolletti (Temperance, ERA) Liv Kristine (Liv Kristine, ex-Theatre of Tragedy, ex-Leaves Eyes) Melissa Bonny (Ad Infinitum, The Dark Side of the Moon) Brittney Slayes (Unleash the Archers) Maja Shining (Forever Still) Erica Ohlsson (Metalite) Heidi Parviainen (Dark Sarah, ex Amberian Dawn) Zora Cock (Blackbriar) Linda Toni Grahn (Anima Veil, ex Follow the Cipher) Caterina Nix (Chaos Magic) Federica Lanna (Volturian) Ulli Perhonen (ex-Snow White Blood) Ambre Vourvahis (Xandria) Fabienne Erni (Eluveitie, Illumishade) Lindy-Fay Hella (Wardruna) Margarita Monet (Edge of Paradise) Marina La Torraca (Battle Beast, Exit Eden, Phantom Elite) Nicoletta Rosellini (Alterium, Walk in Darkness) Maxi Nil (Jaded Star, ex Visions of Atlantis) Capri (ex Amberian Dawn) Emma Zoldan (Sirenia) Dianne van Giersbergen (DIANNE, Ex Libris) Chiara Tricarico (Moonlight Haze) Leah (Leah) Kristin Starkey (Temperance, Twilight Force) Kristyn Hope (Daedric) Diva Satanica (Bloodhunter) Grace Darkling (Nocturna) Rehn Stillnight (Nocturna) Jessica Thierjung (Lyriel) Minniva (Minniva) Helle Bohdanova (Ignea) Karmen Klinc (Venus 5)
“Danny’s War” is a powerful, emotionally charged rock single from Acacia, blending gritty instrumentation with raw, thought-provoking storytelling. Inspired by modern conflict and Britain’s military history, the track explores the human cost of war – not through politics, but through the eyes of those asked to fight it.
Driven by urgent guitars and anthemic intensity, “Danny’s War” captures both the pride and sacrifice of soldiers, while confronting the frustration and anger surrounding decisions made far from the front line. It’s a song that doesn’t glorify war, but instead shines a light on its consequences — honouring those who serve while questioning the systems that send them.
With its blend of emotional depth and explosive energy, “Danny’s War” positions Acacia as a band unafraid to tackle meaningful subject matter, delivering a track that feels both timely and timeless.
Acacia are a South Wales rock band blending gritty riffs, anthemic hooks, and emotionally charged songwriting, quickly building a reputation for high-energy live shows and standout releases. Formerly known as Paisley Parc, the band gained national attention with airplay on BBC Radio Wales, features in Wonderland Magazine, and UK tours.
Their early releases — Complicated, Something On You, and Don’t Play Stupid — were recorded with Grammy-nominated producer Romesh Dodangoda, helping establish their punchy, melodic sound. In late 2024, the band shared stages with Florence Black and Revoker before stepping back to refine their direction and evolve their sound.
Re-emerging in 2025 as Acacia — a name rooted in Jack Mason and Ieuan Evans’ beginnings on Acacia Avenue — the band entered a new chapter with bass guitarist Connor Jones and drummer John O’Reilly completing the lineup. Acacia marked their arrival with a sold-out hometown headline show in November 2025, signalling a confident new era and growing local demand. Now in 2026, the band are in the studio working with Tristan Thomas (Florence Black), preparing new material and expanding their reach across UK stages and festivals.
Upcoming appearances include a support slot with Public Order for their Farewell Gig: 1st August 2026 at Clwb Crown, Merthyr Tydfil
Acacia are: Jack Mason, Ieuan Evans and John O’Reilly
Maryland-based metalcore outfit Omen//Skye have released their powerful new single and music video, “Further” available now via Arson Theory.
Blending cinematic atmosphere, crushing riffs, and emotionally charged melodic hooks, Omen//Skye continue to establish themselves as one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most promising heavy acts. Built on the foundation of explosive live performances, the band seamlessly merges the intensity of classic metalcore with the innovation of the genre’s modern wave, forging a sound that is both familiar and unmistakably their own.
Their latest release, “Further,” dives deep into conceptual storytelling, delivering a chilling narrative wrapped in towering guitars, relentless rhythms, and dynamic vocal performances.
“‘Further’ serves as an esoteric warning to anybody searching for knowledge of things they couldn’t possibly comprehend as a human. It’s a conceptual track that speaks from the perspective of an ancient demonic presence that offers an occultist the knowledge he seeks regarding the secrets of the universe, with a cryptic warning that runs parallel to the being’s beckoning,” shares Josh Grzywacz (Guitar/Vocals), writer of “Further”.
The single is accompanied by an equally immersive live performance music video that captures the song’s uncompromising heaviness.
The band sums up the single with one simple invitation:
“Go Further with me…”
As Omen//Skye continue building momentum, they have become known for delivering high-energy performances that leave a lasting impression. Their growing catalog of releases and relentless drive have earned them support slots alongside artists including If Not For Me, Tallah, Resistor, Yosemite In Black, Waking the Cadaver, The Wise Man’s Fear, and Softspoken, positioning the band for continued expansion onto the national touring circuit.
Mixed and mastered by Drew Licurgo and Six:Eight Audio, the single release is distributed via Arson Theory and the band is managed by Core Collective Talent Agency.
“Further” and its official music video are available now via Arson Theory. STREAM “Further” HERE
UPCOMING TOUR DATES: 8/2 – Supporting Fight From Within and Yung Mosh @ Morsberger’s Tavern in Catonsville, MD 9/13 – Supporting ENOX @ Metro Gallery in Baltimore, MD
OMEN/Skye: Nick Troisi – Lead Vocals Joshua Grzywacz – Vocals / Rhythm Guitar Dillon Thatcher – Drums Dominic Buie – Bass Brian Baugus – Lead Guitar
Norwegian goth ’n’ roll band MALICE IN WONDERLAND has opened the vaults with the release of “Absinthe Diary (2006 Recording)” — a previously unheard song that remained hidden for nearly two decades.
Recorded in 2006, shortly after the release of the band’s self-titled debut album, the track was completed but never appeared on an album, EP or single. Newly remastered for 2026, “Absinthe Diary” offers a genuine snapshot of the band during the era that launched their international career.
“There were a few forgotten gems hidden away, and ‘Absinthe Diary’ was simply too good to remain unheard,” says frontman Chris Wicked. “It captures who we were at the time — young, ambitious, slightly reckless and obsessed with creating dark, melodic rock songs.”
The song is one of the bonus tracks featured on Malice In Wonderland (20th Anniversary Deluxe Remastered Edition), set for release on August 8, 2026.
The expanded edition will include a newly remastered version of the band’s cult debut album alongside rare and previously unreleased material from their early years.
Formed in Norway in the mid 1990s, Malice In Wonderland built an international following with their mix of gothic atmosphere, hard rock swagger and infectious melodies. Their debut album became a cult favourite, while songs such as “Lucifer’s Town” gained more than one million plays during the MySpace era.
Two decades later, “Absinthe Diary (2006 Recording)” finally steps out of the shadows.
“Absinthe Diary (2006 Recording)” is out now on all major streaming platforms.
Norway’s premier goth n’ roll band, Malice In Wonderland, first made waves on the local scene in the late ’90s and early 2000s, before exploding onto the international stage with their 2005 debut album.
Fronted by the enigmatic Chris Wicked, the band quickly built a global following, with fan clubs spanning the world. They toured across Europe and Asia, shared stages with legends like Def Leppard, and appeared in numerous TV shows and productions. Their breakout single “Lucifer’s Town” became a viral hit on MySpace, racking up over a million plays and cementing their cult status.
Following the split of Malice In Wonderland in 2015, Chris Wicked has forged a successful solo career and will continue releasing music under that banner.
PRIDE OF LIONS, led by Jim Peterik and Toby Hitchcock, are proud to release their new album, ‘Unbridled,’ out now via Frontiers Music Srl. Produced by Jim Peterik and mixed by Larry Millas, ‘Unbridled’ marks the eighth studio album from PRIDE OF LIONS. To mark the release, the band also unveils the new single “I’ll Be Your Rock,” alongside an official visualizer, available below.
On the new track, Jim Peterik shares:
“‘I’ll Be You Rock’ by PRIDE OF LIONS is our song about the strength two people can possess when they join forces as a team. Karen and I will have been husband and wife for 54 years this September 2nd and still going strong. We are truly each other’s fortress. ‘You’ll be my rock- you’ll be my fortress- you’ll be my strength to run any length- my torch in the darkness,’ when you find your soul mate you’ll both be standing tall forever. Rock on!”
With ‘Unbridled,’ legendary AOR torchbearers PRIDE OF LIONS return with their eighth studio album, a commanding statement from one of melodic rock’s most enduring acts. Since their formation in 2003 by Jim Peterik — the songwriting force behind anthems like “Eye of the Tiger” and “The Search Is Over” — and powerhouse vocalist Toby Hitchcock, PRIDE OF LIONS have been celebrated for fusing classic melodic sensibilities with modern rock energy. Over two decades later, they remain at the forefront of the genre, consistently delivering songs that resonate with depth, emotion, and unforgettable hooks.
‘Unbridled’ is a 12-track journey that showcases the band’s remarkable craft. Every element of the lineup shines: Ed Breckenfeld’s driving drums and percussion lay a solid foundation; Mike Aquino’s lead and acoustic guitars deliver both fire and finesse; Bob Lizik’s bass anchors each arrangement with strength and groove; and Jim Peterik’s keyboards and secondary guitar add lush melodic layers. The signature dual vocal performances from Peterik and Hitchcock — alternately commanding, expressive, and harmonically rich — elevate the songs to new heights.
The album is mixed by longtime collaborator Larry Millas, whose work brings clarity, depth, and punch to every track. Standout singles like the title track “Unbridled” — with its striking guitar intro and immediate melodic hook — and “Edge of Forever” underline the band’s ability to craft timeless rock songs that feel both classic and contemporary.
Through ‘Unbridled,’ PRIDE OF LIONS reaffirm their status as masters of melodic rock and AOR. It’s an album that will satisfy longtime fans while serving as a powerful introduction for new listeners, showcasing a band that continues to evolve without ever losing its core identity.
PRIDE OF LIONS are: Toby Hitchcock and Jim Peterik: Lead Vocals Ed Breckenfeld: Drums And Percussion Mike Aquino: Lead Electric And Acoustic Guitar Keyboards: Jim Peterik Secondary Guitar: Jim Peterik Bass Guitar: Bob Lizik
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
