Emerging from the shadows of Pretoria’s rock scene, Acid Magus unleash Emperor, the fiery second single from their upcoming album. Known for their intoxicating blend of doom, stoner, punk, and psych rock, Acid Magus has crafted a track that is both an intense journey into sound and a searing exploration of power’s dark allure.
In a swirl of distorted guitars, heavy riffs, and hypnotic rhythms, Emperor introduces the album’s central antagonist—a power-hungry overlord who thrives on destruction. As a metaphor for colonialism and the erasure of culture, the Emperor embodies raw, destructive ambition. The track invites listeners to confront the brutality of conquest, with haunting lyrics that echo the relentless drive for control. Acid Magus’s characteristic musical grit and psychedelic edge deliver a visceral experience, drawing inspiration from the likes of Mastodon, Kylesa, and Baroness, all while infusing their signature South African flair.
Emperor is also the shortest track on the upcoming album, offering a potent glimpse into the broader narrative Acid Magus has woven. With epic vocal cries and spine-chilling drops into sonic oblivion, the song encapsulates the wild thoughts of the loathsome Emperor himself, pulling listeners deeper into his tortured psyche. Acid Magus’s commitment to a raw, DIY approach comes through in every heavy beat and spiraling riff, creating a sound that’s both timeless and immediately captivating.
“We wanted to capture the Emperor’s madness and the absolute corruption of power,” the band shares. “This song channels the darkness in humanity that few dare to confront. Psychosis never sounded this good.”
Fans of Zeppelin, Sabbath, and the heavy psychedelia of modern bands like Slift will recognize Acid Magus’s reverence for rock’s legends, while newcomers to the genre will find themselves immersed in a hypnotic mix of styles, from 60s psych to alt-rock intensity.
Alt-rock outfit FINISH TICKET have released a stripped-down cover of the timeless holiday favorite “White Christmas,” arriving just in time to set the perfect mood for the holiday season. Listen to the Bay Area band’s wistful take—out digitally today, November 15, via Better Noise Music—via your preferred platformHERE. The band—Brendan Hoye (vocals), Alex DiDonato (guitar), Gabe Stein (drums), and Ryan Blair (bass)—have also shared an intimate music video for “White Christmas,” inwhich the guys are seen wistfully singing and playing the tune. Watch it streaming above or directly via YouTube HERE.
FINISH TICKET released their second full-length album, ECHO AFTERNOON, this past September via Better Noise Music. Co-produced by the band alongside Jim Kaufman (Danny Worsnop, Helmet, Atlas Genius) and Michael Coleman (Chappell Roan, Sure Sure, Em Beihold), ECHO AFTERNOON’s 12 tracks show the band at their most vulnerable as they take listeners on an emotional roller coaster narrating the struggles and anxiety of being stuck in limbo while trying to find an escape to a brighter future. “‘Echo Afternoon’ captures the raw energy and introspective songwriting that fans fell in love,” lauds Asteria Zine who further calls it “a standout that channels the band’s signature mix of emotional depth and catchy hooks.” Find ECHO AFTERNOON on CD, vinyl, and digitally at https://finishticket.ffm.to/echoafternoon.
FINISH TICKET’s 2014 debut album Tears You Apart (Atlantic Records) saw the band make their debut late-night TV performance on “Late Night With Conan O’Brien” alongside a wave of sold-out shows across the Bay Area. In 2019, they self-released the hit track “Dream Song,” which garnered over 4.1 million streams, and embarked on a successful headlining tour, selling out multiple venues across the country before COVID pandemic put a halt to live events. FINISH TICKET spent the next three years writing and recording Echo Afternoon, signing to Better Noise Music and continuing to perform across the U.S. including festival appearances at Lollapalooza and Innings Fest.
Touring Europe this past summer in support of their latest and fourth record “The Loss of Beauty” (Spikerot Records), Italian melodic death-doom force Shores of Null performed at this year’s Hellfest Open Air (Temple Stage) in Clisson, France.
Delivering a powerful performance that encapsulates their signature blend of heavy, melodic gothic doom. This live set showcases tracks from their rich discography, including highlights from their latest album. As they perform under the iconic lights of Hellfest, the band’s dynamic soundscapes and emotional depth resonate through the crowd, creating an immersive experience for all in attendance. This performance at one of Europe’s premier metal festivals marks a significant moment for Shores Of Null, further solidifying their place in the metal genre.
Capturing that full set on live video, Shores of Null is ready to unveil it for fans by teaming up with ThunderFlix, the world’s premier on-demand video streaming service dedicated exclusively to heavy metal music.
Vocalist Davide Straccione adds:
“Hellfest was the culmination of an intense promotional cycle during which we had the privilege of taking ‘The Loss Of Beauty’ far and wide. Stepping onto that stage was an incredibly powerful experience, rewarding us for years of relentless hard work, dedication, and a deep love for what we do. We felt the energy of the crowd resonating with us, and in that moment, it truly felt like we were exactly where we were meant to be. On a personal level, it was a dream come true, and I believe I can speak for the entire band when I say it was the highlight of our career so far.”
Watch Shores of Null‘s Hellfest 2024 performance in its entirety via its premiere on ThunderFlix HERE.
Watch a live clipof their track “A New Death Is Born”:
Hellfest 2024 Setlist: intro: Transitory 1. Destination Woe 2. The Last Flower 3. Ruins Alive 4. Quiescent 5. Darkness Won’t Take Me 6. Nothing Left To Burn 7. My Darkest Years 8. A New Death Is Born outro: Blazing Sunlight
Live Video Credits: Live Sound Tech: Nikos Giagkoudakis Video Recording: Sombrero & Co
“The Loss of Beauty” is Shores Of Null’s fourth album and follows the acclaimed “Beyond The Shores (On Death And Dying)”, unanimously considered by fans and critics as one of the Doom Metal gems of recent years. Both albums were recorded between 2019 and early 2020, and although “The Loss of Beauty” was initially conceived as the band’s third album, ‘Beyond The Shores’ took its place as it better reflected the doom and gloom sentiment of the ‘annus horribilis’ 2020.
Across 11 tracks (plus two bonus tracks), Shores Of Null once again submerges listeners with tempestuous and turbulent riffs. The band continues to hone its sound and take its melancholic dark metal to new heights by mastering an assorted palette of genres with inbred poignancy. The lyrics celebrate beauty in imperfection and transience and are meant to be an invitation to seek beauty in little things, especially those unexpected and ephemeral.
“Those who follow Shores Of Null from the very beginning know that our influences touch many genres, and I think those who loved ‘Quiescence’ and ‘Black Drapes For Tomorrow’ won’t be disappointed. I consider ‘The Loss Of Beauty’ to be the natural evolution of those records, while ‘Beyond The Shores (On Death And Dying)’ represents a slight detour from the main road, a quite successful experiment in which we gave vent to our most dark and dramatic side, focusing exclusively on gothic/death/doom metal, almost funereal at times. Those who have known us with ‘Beyond The Shores’ might find ‘The Loss Of Beauty’ a bit different, faster in tempos but still very gloomy and melancholic, so I’m pretty confident the album will be well received by fans in general.” adds vocalist Davide Straccione.
Dark and heavy, tinged with feelings of despair, “The Loss Of Beauty” was released on March 24th, 2023, and recommended for fans of Swallow The Sun, Borknagar, and Paradise Lost.
Track Listing: 1. Transitory – 1:20 2. Destination Woe – 4:52 3. The Last Flower – 4:59 4. Darkness Won’t Take Me – 4:14 5. Nothing Left To Burn – 4:55 6. Old Scars – 4:23 7. The First Son – 2:17 8. A Nature In Disguise – 6:26 9. My Darkest Years – 4:56 10. Fading As One – 5:19 11. A New Death Is Born – 4:54 Album Length: 48:40 Bonus Tracks (CD and digital only) 12. Underwater Oddity – 4:18 13. Blazing Sunlight – 1:57
Australian masters of metal TERAMAZE have returned with a brand new single and video titled “Bullet To A Pharaoh” out today! Mastered by Ted Jensen (Metallica, Nickelback, Alice In Chains), the heavy hitting new song follows the band’s heralded, 11th album, ‘Eli: A Wonderful Fall From Grace,’ that was released earlier this year via Wells Music.
With the release of ‘”Bullet to a Pharaoh,”Teramaze heralds a new era, seamlessly fusing titan-heavy riffs with unforgettable pop hooks, that also resonate deeply within the core of their sound. This exhilarating anthem signifies a powerful return to a more riff-centric metal structure, reminiscent of the 2012 album release ‘Anhedonia’. This track beautiful honors their roots, while courageously venturing into uncharted territory.
Commenting on the new single, founding guitarist/singer Dean Wells says:
“‘Bullet to a Pharaoh’ feels like a fresh chapter for Teramaze, blending new directions while staying true to our metal roots and those big, anthemic choruses. It’s one of many tracks we’ve written for what could be a double album, set to unfold over the next six months. After disbanding Meshiaak, I realized I needed to inject more of that pure metal energy back into Teramaze. It’s been one of the most exciting and fulfilling songwriting experiences we’ve had in years. Adding more of our metal side into the new material has pushed us to think and create differently, and I truly believe the results will speak for themselves. ‘Bullet to a Pharaoh’ is just a glimpse of what’s to come.”
Teramaze is a powerhouse metal band that delivers a hard-hitting sound reminiscent of giants like Metallica, Sevendust, Avenged Sevenfold, and Breaking Benjamin. Not only are they known for their intense riffs and soaring melodies, but they also stand out as one of the hardest-working bands in the scene, consistently pushing the boundaries of their sound. With a prolific output of albums in recent years, Teramaze seamlessly blends progressive and pop elements with their heavy metal foundation, creating a unique clash that keeps fans on their toes.
Their relentless dedication to songwriting and performance is evident in every release, showcasing their evolution while staying true to their metal roots. With powerful vocals and intricate instrumentation, Teramaze crafts anthems that resonate with both heart and intensity. Get ready to rock hard and experience the energetic fusion that is Teramaze—where passion meets perseverance!
About TERAMAZE:
Teramaze, the Progressive Metal Titans, captivate audiences with their intricate melodies, powerful rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Hailing from Australia, the band has solidified their place in the international metal scene with their unique blend of technical prowess and emotive storytelling.
Lead by guitarist, singer and founding member Dean Wells, Teramaze’s music weaves together elements of progressive, thrash, and melodic metal, creating a sound that pushes the boundaries of the genre.
Teramaze came to be known as one of the most prolific progressive metal bands boasting 3 full-length albums in the span of 12 months, from 2020-2021 during the global pandemic. These albums created a mass of new fans, as well as keeping the existing ones excited, engaged and craving more.
With critically acclaimed albums like ‘Esoteric Symbolism’, ‘Her Halo’ and ‘I Wonder’, Teramaze continues to surpass expectations, delivering intense and unforgettable live performances that leave audiences in awe.
In 2023 Teramaze played some great live shows, most notably, supporting Swedish metal outfit Avatar and headlining Prog Power Europe festival in the Netherlands.
Teramaze’s latest album, ‘Eli: A Wonderful Fall from Grace’, features spellbinding tracks like “Standing Ovation” and “Step Right Up,” and is the final chapter in their Halo trilogy, following the storylines of 2015’s ‘Her Halo‘ and 2021’s ‘Sorella Minore.’ The record further showcases the band’s evolution as a band and solidifies their status as one of the most diverse and conceptual acts in modern progressive metal.
Beth Hart is pleased to announce Wille And The Bandits (Acoustic Duo) as special guests at her concerts at Poole, Lighthouse on Thursday November 28th and Brighton, Dome on Saturday November 30th.
The announcement follows the release of Beth’s critically acclaimed new album “You Still Got Me.” Released by Provogue/Mascot Label Group the new album is available HERE.
Watch the video for her single “Savior With A Razor” (featuring Slash) on YouTube HERE.
With a career marked by critical acclaim and countless accolades, Beth Hart has solidified her place as one of the most influential and heartfelt voices in music today. Her journey, marked by triumphs and trials, reflects her relentless dedication to her craft and fans. Hart’s music, infused with her raw, soulful energy, has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her top spots on the Billboard Blues charts and performances at iconic venues like Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, Amsterdam’s Ziggo Dome and London’s Royal Albert Hall.
There is an electrifying connection between Beth and her fans, one that’s almost unrivalled. Her ability to touch people with her music and words that cut through straight to the heart means that she lives every word she sings, and fans hang on to each word, living it with her. You Still Got Me offers fans a chance to hold and comfort her as she continues to navigate her journey with grace and courage.
A DHP Presentation by Arrangement with N&P Touring
BETH HART UK TOUR DATES WITH SPECIAL GUESTS *WILLE AND THE BANDITS (ACOUSTIC DUO)
TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM WWW.ALTTICKETS.COM/BETH-HART-TICKETS
*POOLE LIGHTHOUSE THURSDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2024 Special guests: Wille And The Bandits (Acoustic Duo)
*BRIGHTON DOME SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024 Special guests: Wille And The Bandits (Acoustic Duo)
BRISTOL BEACON TUESDAY 18 FEBRUARY 2025
LONDON EVENTIM APOLLO THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2025
WARWICK ARTS CENTRE SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2025
BETH HART – BIOGRAPHY
Beth Hart is as real as it gets. In a music industry full of glossy production and airbrushed photoshoots, this is one artist who throws down her cards, shares her darkest secrets and invites you to join her for the ride.
New fans might know Beth as the all-conquering global icon, dubbed “extraordinary” by The Times and “daring, brooding and angry” by The Guardian. But to understand her rollercoaster backstory, you need only read the War In My Mind lyric sheet.
Hart is recognized as one of her generation’s most talented voices. She has sold out tours worldwide, including performances at historic venues such as Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, London’s Royal Albert Hall, and the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam. She’s topped the Billboard charts six times, gone double platinum and had a string of Top 10 charting albums across Europe.
The Grammy-nominated powerhouse vocalist Beth Hart took on one of her most profound undertakings to date by channelling the legendary voice of Robert Plant on A Tribute To Led Zeppelin. The nine-track album highlights the incredible musical spectrum that Led Zeppelin operated in.
All that was left was the final piece of the puzzle… the voice. Things clicked into place when Cavallo was producing Hart’s previous album, War In My Mind (2019), and she did an impromptu version of “Whole Lotta Love” in the studio. He later asked about doing a whole record. Beth said, “I’m not doing this whole album. To do Zeppelin, you’ve got to be pissed off to hit that right. I can’t go there; I’ve worked years to put my rage away. “She continues, “then the pandemic and all the things around it hit. So now I’m pissed off. I called my manager and said, have Rob and Doug send me all the music because I am ready to do this. “If you were to rewind, you could say the story for a Led Zeppelin album started further back; in May 2004 Hart prowled the stage at the Paradiso in Amsterdam for an incendiary performance of “Whole Lotta Love”. The song became a semi-regular fixture in her setlist over the years, including a memorable performance with Slash.
At 51 – and proud of it – Beth is basking in a golden period. The success of her last original album, War In My Mind, followed by the incredible Led Zeppelin tribute, have garnered yet more critical acclaim, growing sales and sold-out shows. But as the singer reminds us, her life has always moved in cycles–”things get good then go to crap, get good then go to crap”–and it’s in these extremes that many of her best songs are born.
Finnish melodic death/folk metal band Warfarer released their long-awaited debut concept album, ‘A Tale Beyond the Pale’ on November 15th 2024 via Inverse Records.
“The wait is over. ‘A Tale Beyond the Pale’ is here — a journey through Finnish myth and legend: jealousy, scheming, Viking raids, and duels under the northern lights. We’ve poured our hearts and souls (or what’s left of them) into this album, and it feels incredible to finally share it with the world.
But this is just the beginning — our TO-DO list is long and relentless. Warfarer is gearing up to hit the road, bringing our full live sound to stages across Finland and beyond. We’re also deep into the pre-production of our second album, so rest assured, more music is on the horizon.
To our fans, thank you for your unwavering support. See you in the longhalls!”
Cover art by Sofia Sinivuori
STORIES BEHIND THE TRACKS:
Heir Uncrowned: “The beginning. Two brothers, raised as one, by blood bound. Our protagonist, the firstborn son, is destined to become the tribe’s chieftain. When he commits a shameful deed, he is disgraced by his chieftain father and disavowed. After the chieftain dies and the second son takes our protagonist’s place as the new chieftain, the firstborn son begins to resent his own brother.”
As the Portents Foretold: “The raid. The brothers lead a raid over the sea against a southern village. Amidst the battle, the jealous firstborn son looks for an opportunity to plant his dagger in his brother-chieftain’s back, but is continuously denied the chance. Finally, as the sounds of battle fade and everyone else has fallen, he turns his blade toward his brother.”
Brotherslayer: “The duel. The firstborn son, cold-blooded, faces the bewildered brother-chieftain, who does not understand what madness has overtaken his dear brother. In the end, the firstborn son stands over his slain brother as the morning sun dawns.”
Bereaver: “The homecoming. As the raiders return, carrying their beloved chieftain on a funeral bier, the firstborn son is exhilarated. He assumes his place as the new chieftain, but among the subdued cheers, murmurs of discontent and rumors surrounding the circumstances of his brother-chieftain’s death persist.”
Betrayer: “The resentment. The firstborn son is the new chieftain, but he is not beloved like his brother. Even in death, his brother makes him jealous, and this resentment begins to turn into anger. Soon, the flames of his hate engulf the whole village.”
In the Gravelight: “The loneliness. Alone, despised, amidst the burning ruins of his sanity, the firstborn son hides in the north. The realization of his deeds finally drives him over the precipice, and he descends into grief-stricken madness.”
March Through the Endless Snow: “The march. Giving up everything, the firstborn son begins his journey further into the north. Determined to find his end on his own terms, he marches to reach the dark river of Tuonela.”
The Gates to Realms Beyond: “The end. Collapsing in the snow, he sees the gates open to the realms beyond. The firstborn son leaves this world, leaving behind his legacy — the myth of the brotherslayer.”
Line-up: Kalle Puutio – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitars Seppo Kolehmainen – Lead Guitars, Backing Vocals Klaus Telenius – Bass, Backing Vocals Tuomas Rahikainen – Keyboards, Backing Vocals Julius Lehtonen – Drums
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 )