BraveWords Records is excited to announce the new Jack Starr solo album,”Out of the Darkness Part II” will be released April 25, 2025.
Jack Starr talking about the new album, “This is the album I always hoped I would make, one that would be filled with power and glory but also melodic and passionate at the same time. This is the sequel to my 1984 album Out of the Darkness, and it truly is a worthy successor that I believe will be embraced with the same affection that greeted the original. So yes, Out of the Darkness Part 2 is here, and I urge everyone to listen to it. Keep the metal burning.”
Track Listing: Hand Of Doom Endless Night Into The Pit Rise Up Underneath The Velvet Sky Tonight We Ride The Night Has A Thousand Eyes Sahara Winds The Greater Good Soulkeeper Savage At The Gate (Bonus Track) The Lesson (Bonus Track)
Giles Lavery – Vocals (Warlord / Alcatrazz) Jack Starr – Lead Guitar Eric Juris – Lead Guitar (Warlord) Gene Cooper – Bass Rhino – Drums (Ex Manowar)
Guests Mark Zonder – Drums (Warlord ex Fates Warning) Jimmy Waldo – Keyboards (Alcatrazz / Warlord / New England)
Produced and mixed by Thomas Mergler Co-Produced by Giles Lavery & Jack Starr
About Jack Starr: Starr emerged on the rock and metal scene in 1981, forming, together with Joey Ayvazian, David DeFeis and Joe O’Rielly, the first incarnation of the heavy metal band Virgin Steele. The new band was selected in 1982 by Mike Varney of Shrapnel Records to appear on the label’s compilation album U.S. Metal Volume 2. After only two albums, Virgin Steele of 1981 and Guardians of the Flame of 1982, Starr left Virgin Steele in 1983.
In 1984, Starr started his solo recording career with the album Out of the Darkness, featuring former Riot vocalist Rhett Forrester, members of The Rods and former Rainbow drummer Gary Driscoll. It was released in Europe by Music for Nations and was picked as one of the best albums of the year by the music magazines Kerrang! and Metal Forces.
Starr changed the name of his band to Jack Starr’s Burning Starr and between 1984 and 1989 he produced albums, both solo and with the band. The music of those albums was classic American eighties heavy metal, a style between Poison and Metallica. In 1989 the band dissolved and Starr joined short-lived bands like Strider and Smoke Stack Lightning.
In the following years, Starr once again assembled a group of musicians for a new incarnation of Burning Starr, which performed at the Magic Circle Festival 2008 and released the album Defiance on Manowar’s label Magic Circle Music in 2009. In 2011 they released Land of the Dead with Limb Music. The albums includes ex-Manowar guest musicians Ross the Boss and David Shankle. The band played at the 2013 Keep It True festival and recorded a DVD.
Symphonic darkwave architects ANGELIC FOE unveil a spellbinding visual journey with their new music video “Amulet”, a cinematic exploration of inner struggle and supernatural seduction, lifted from their critically acclaimed album “Amulets and Charms” (WormHoleDeath Records).
“Amulet” – a haunting tale of temptation and resistance, and battle of the seductive pull of a dark and mysterious force. Caught in a spell of desire and danger, striving to reclaim autonomy and breaking free from the shadowy allure. It’s a journey of self-discovery, defiance, and an attempt to triumph over inner and external darkness.
Pushing boundaries between classical composition and alternative music, ANGELIC FOE continues to redefine contemporary dark music with their unique, immersive approach.
“Amulets and Charms” continues to solidify Angelic Foe’s place in the neoclassical and darkwave genres. The album’s nine tracks are rich in emotional depth and cinematic quality, exploring themes of mysticism, mythology, and esotericism. The music is a blend of Annmari’s enchanting vocals and Fredrik Hermansson’s masterful orchestral arrangements, enriched with classical instrumentation and rock and metal elements. It includes contributions from additional musicians: percussions by Mattias Borgh, viola by Björn Jönsson, and guitars by Jhonny Göransson, with mixing by Léo Margarit and mastering by Magnus Devo Andersson.
Listen to the entire “Amulets and Charms” album on your favorite streaming platforms: orcd.co/amuletscharms
Consisting of two guitars, bass, drums and a powerful singer, BENTHIC playing a mixture of powerful post-hardcore and grooving metal with sustaining melodies. Dark guitar walls and angry roars are constantly being broken down to give room for emotions. An association with the elemental forces of maritime nature in all its beauty and brutality.
The band, featuring founding member Sebastian Formella of long-defunct German metalcore act DESTINY aka THE DESTINY PROGRAM and Siegmar Holzfuß of progressive rock act EDEN CIRCUS, was formed in Hamburg in 2012.
After a long period of writing, countless rehearsals and a few line-up changes, they finally joined as BENTHIC in 2014. Their debut EP called “THE MESS” was released in 2016.
After a long break, BENTHIC now has found a new label home at LIFEFORCE RECORDS and will be back in Februar with the first full-length “SANGUINE”.
With this work, which has matured in complexity and arrangements, BENTHIC wants to create new horizons and is looking forward to a future large and small stages of this world.
Sanguine tracklist: Sanguine Moloch Murmur Pitch and Tar The Stranger The Living Torch All Is Vanity Faded Godot Sanguine Pt. II
Hard rock sensation H.E.A.T light up 2025 with the announcement of their brand-new studio album ‘Welcome to the Future’, set for release on April 25th on earMUSIC.
The first single ‘Disaster’, which premiered yesterday on rock radio stations across Europe, is out today and guaranteed to snap listeners out of their winter sleep. The single was added to the A List on Planet Rock Radio in the UK. Watch the official music video on YouTube HERE.
The track comes with an explosive music video that merges 80s arcade aesthetics with metal madness, directed by the renowned Patric Ullaeus (known for his work with Europe, Arch Enemy, Children of Bodom, and many more rock superstars).
‘Welcome to the Future’ delivers everything that fans of the celebrated Swedish rock band love: an innovative, heavy, highly dynamic, and refreshingly melodic sound, the unmistakable vocals of frontman Kenny Leckremo, and an inimitable talent for catchy anthems that leave you hooked for days.
‘Welcome to the Future’ is now available for pre-order and will be released in multiple formats: CD Jewel Case, Black Vinyl, Limited Edition Neon Orange Vinyl, and Digital.
Tracklisting (CD/LP):
A
1. Disaster 2. Bad Time for Love 3. Running to You 4. Call My Name 5. In Disguise 6. The End
B
7. Rock Bottom 8. Children of the Storm 9. Losing Game 10. Paradise Lost 11. Tear It Down (R.N.R.R.) 12. We Will Not Forget
In support of the album, H.E.A.T will kick off their 2025 tour next week, bringing their breathtaking shows to stages across the UK, Sweden, Germany, Spain, Bulgaria, Denmark, Finland, Chile, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, and Peru.
Jan. 28, 2025 – The Fleece, Bristol, UK Jan. 29, 2025 – Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, UK Jan. 30, 2025 – Manchester Club Academy, Manchester, UK Jan. 31, 2025 – Islington Assembly Hall, London, UK Jan. 31 – Feb. 2, 2025 – Mid-Glamorgan, UK – Planet Rock Winter’s End Feb. 1, 2025 – KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton, UK Feb. 15, 2025 – Norrköping, Sweden Feb. 18, 2025 – Helsinki, Finland Feb. 19, 2025 – Tampere, Finland Feb. 21, 2025 – Uppsala, Sweden Feb. 22, 2025 – Lund, Sweden Feb. 23, 2025 – København, Denmark Feb. 25, 2025 – Göteborg, Sweden Feb. 26, 2025 – Oslo, Norway Feb. 27, 2025 – Örebro, Sweden Feb. 28, 2025 – Johanneshov, Sweden Mar. 1, 2025 – Falun, Sweden May 1, 2025 – Ciudad De México, Mexico May 3 – 4, 2025 – São Paulo, Brazil – Bangers Open Air Brasil 2025 May 4, 2025 – Comuna 1, Argentina May 6, 2025 – Santiago, Chile May 8, 2025 – Lima, Peru May 10, 2025 – Bogotá, Colombia May 23, 2025 – Madrid, Spain Jul. 11 – 13, 2025 – Mogilovo, Bulgaria – Midalidare Rock 2025 Jul. 17, 2025 – Bremen, Germany – Seebühne Rockt! 2025
Rising stars in the metal/punk scene, Lonely Empire, are set to release their highly anticipated debut EP,Dawn of the Empire, on January 31 via Golden Robot Records. This monumental release marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for the Adelaide-based band, whose raw energy and socially charged lyrics have already started to make waves.
Featuring a mix of heavy riffs, anthemic choruses, and poignant commentary, Dawn of the Empire showcases the band’s unique fusion of metal and punk influences. With tracks like their electrifying singles ‘Like a Misfit’ and ‘Convoluted Insanity’, the EP serves as both a declaration of intent and a thrilling invitation to their expanding fan base. “This EP is a reflection of the struggles and triumphs we face in a world that feels increasingly chaotic,” says lead singer Lucas. “It’s our way of connecting with anyone who’s ever felt like they’re fighting to carve out their place in this empire of noise.”
Produced with precision and passion, Dawn of the Empire cements Lonely Empire as a force to be reckoned with in the global punk and metal communities and with their intense live performances and a message that speaks directly to the outcasts, the band is poised to make a big impact. Fans can expect a sonic experience that’s as cathartic as it is exhilarating.
Innovative guitar visionary MARTY FRIEDMAN shares a new single, “A Prayer,” from his latest solo album ‘Drama.’ The new track is being released as a digital single that includes a “Guitar Karaoke” version of the track as a B-Side. “A Prayer” is accompanied by a visualizer, available below.
MARTY comments on the new single:
“‘A Prayer’ was one of the first songs I wrote for ‘DRAMA,’ It is an unapologetic tearjerker, and it set the melancholy tone for the entire album. I always wanted to do a full album of wistful songs like this, but only recently have I developed the ability to put together elaborate arrangements like this that sound deceivingly simple and uplifting.”
MARTY is excited to commence his “LIVE DRAMA 2025” US Tour supporting his most recent studio album ‘Drama’ out now on Frontiers Music. The tour begins this week on January 24th in Santa Ana and wraps up on February 22nd in Los Angeles. Tickets are available now. A full list of tour dates is below.
In addition, MARTY has a brand-new full autobiography, Dreaming Japanese, out now worldwide by Simon and Schuster. It is available at the following vendors: amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, and dreamingjapanesebook.com.
MARTY FRIEDMAN`s presence in the world of music, the world of guitar, and Japanese pop culture is mystifying, bizarre, and nothing short of inspiring. His latest solo album ‘Drama’ where he only slightly revisits the atmospheric elements of his acclaimed 1992 release ‘Scenes,’ elevating them to a modern and exotic collection of epic, extravagant, and unapologetically emotional mini-symphonies.
From his groundbreaking beginnings with Cacophony, alongside the legendary Jason Becker, to his pivotal role in propelling Megadeth to its peak of popularity with his breath-taking range and unorthodox melodic sense, MARTY FRIEDMAN has solidified his status as a unique guitar icon.
Tracks like “Illumination” and “Mirage” transport listeners to captivating realms, evoking sudden tears and chills. The entire album spotlights MARTY’s mesmerizing melodies, game-changing arrangements, and heart-tugging motifs even more than any of his previous work.
Recorded in Italy, where MARTY had access to a treasure trove of vintage guitars along with his modern signature models, ‘Drama’ is a pure, uplifting musical experience.
1) Illumination 2) Song for an Eternal Child 3) Triumph (Official Version) 4) Thrill City 5) Deep End 6) Dead of Winter 7) Mirage 8) A Prayer 9) Acapella 10) Tearful Confession 11) Icicles 12) 2 Rebeldes (Dead of Winter) (Spanish Version) 12) Mirage (Guitar Karaoke Version) Bonus track Japan
Produced By: Marty Friedman
Studios: Newsin Audio Design, Italy – Woodcliff Studios, USA – NK Sound & Sunshine Studios, Japan
Recorded By: Luigi Stefanini, Frank Rosato, Takao Nakazato, Atsuo Akabae, Kenjiro Naka
Mixed By: Alexander Backlund and Jay Ruston
Mastered By: Koji Tanaka at Victor Creative Media, Tokyo
Guitar Technician & Sonic Guru: Franco Piona
Commenting on the upcoming tour, MARTY shared this:
“My three band members from Japan, Chargeeeeee, Wakazaemon, and Naoki have created the ultimate setting to perform music from all stages of my career. If you`ve seen us live before, you know what to expect. If not, you are in for a unique treat. You will remember my band`s performances on this ‘Drama’ tour for a long time. Our last two USA tours have left an unforgettable impact on them. We are all beyond excited to cross the pond and play for my home country again!”
The dynamic acoustic duo of Nikki Stringfield & Patrick Kennison will perform as special guests for these dates.
MARTY FRIEDMAN ‘Live Drama 2025’
Jan 24 – Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory Jan 25 – Las Vegas, NV @ Count’s Vamp’d Jan 27 – Denver, CO @ HQ Live Jan 29 – St. Louis, MO @ Off Broadway Jan 30 – St. Charles, IL @ Arcada Theater Jan 31 – Westland, MI @ Token Lounge Feb 1 – Columbus, OH @ The King of Clubs Feb 2 – Cleveland, OH @ The Winchester Feb 4 – New York, NY @ The Loft at City Winery Feb 5 – Boston, MA @ City Winery Feb 6 – Derry, NH @ Tupelo Music Hall Feb 7 – Annapolis, MD @ Ram’s Head on Stage Feb 8 – Pawling, NY @ Daryl’s House Feb 10 – Philadelphia, PA @ City Winery Feb 11 – Leesburg, VA @ Tally Ho Theater Feb 13 – Greenville, SC @ Radio Room Feb 14 – Nashville, TN @ The Basement Feb 16 – Houston, TX @ Bronze Peacock at House of Blues Feb 17 – Austin, TX @ Antone’s Feb 18 – Dallas, TX @ Granada Theater Feb 20 – Albuquerque, NM @ Launch Pad Feb 21 – Phoenix, AZ @ Rhythm Room Feb 22 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Whisky
Tickets, Exclusive Meet and Greet VIP Packages, Stage Played Guitars, and more are available HERE
Since moving to Japan in 2003, MARTY FRIEDMAN has become a household name even beyond the world of music. Fluent in Japanese, he has appeared on over 900 Japanese TV shows of every variety, as well as motion pictures and commercials including an ad campaign for Coca-Cola / FANTA that ran for over two years. He was recently appointed an Ambassador of Japan Heritage by the Japanese government who also commissioned him to compose the “Japan Heritage Theme Song”, recorded by MARTY and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra and is played at official government-related events. He has played the Opening Ceremony at the Tokyo Marathon 5 times, including in March of this year. Three books on MARTY`s life have been released in Japan and a brand-new full autobiography will be released worldwide December 3rd.
In addition to his legendary work with Cacophony and Megadeth, MARTY has released fifteen solo albums starting in 1988 with ‘Dragon’s Kiss’, and has had multi-platinum, platinum, and gold album sales awards in twenty-seven countries, achieving seven Grammy nominations to date. In recent years, FRIEDMAN has put out the distinguished, ongoing Tokyo Jukebox line, which, as the title suggests, is a series of albums featuring covers of Japanese songs starting with ‘Tokyo Jukebox’ in 2009, ‘Tokyo Jukebox 2’ in 2011, and most recently, ‘Tokyo Jukebox 3’ in 2020. This series has become a go-to set for people all around the world who are fast becoming fascinated with Japan and its music.
MARTY has played the Tokyo Dome, Budokan, and every major Japanese venue multiple times. He has toured Japan countless times with his solo music as well as alongside many legendary Japanese stars. Since the release of ‘Tokyo Jukebox 3’ in 2020, MARTY has toured Japan twice, performed as a soloist with three major symphony orchestras, and made several TV appearances, most recently performing with Yoshiki of X Japan.
Since the pandemic, MARTY and his band have toured the U.S. twice and are planning to tour extensively for ‘Drama’.
Vocals on “Dead of Winter”: Chris Brooks (Like A Storm) Vocals on “2 Rebeldes”: Steven Baquero Vargas Bass on “Mirage”: Or Lubianiker Rhythm Guitar on “Thrill City”: Naoki Morioka Keys and Synth on “Song for an Eternal Child”: Takuro Iga Drums on “Thrill City”: Chargeeeeee Additional recording: Yukiko Takada, Jordan Rudess, Naoki Morioka, Maki Furugaki, Chris Brooks, Matt Brooks, Kent Brooks, Brian Becvar
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 )