While the previous singles of have each revealed different sides of THE DOGS‘ album, “Reality Is a Failure” points towards the reflective corner of the Trauma Junkie universe. With its hypnotic drive, soaring melodies, and a chorus that refuses to let go, the song balances hopelessness, dark humour, and the growing feeling that reality itself has simply stopped working. The result is one of the album’s most atmospheric and distinctive tracks.
The very first thing frontman Kristopher Schau told the promo department here at Indie was that, when it came to marketing, only LIM mattered to him. This made absolutely no sense to us, and when we asked what he meant, we received nothing but this remarkably brief email in return:
“Less is more”
We haven’t heard from him since. We therefore assume this means that “Reality Is a Failure” will be the final single from the upcoming album Trauma Junkie, although we can’t say that with any real certainty. What we are fairly certain about, however, is that this is Tommy (Reite)’s song, and that it’s also him whistling at the very beginning. That man really knows how to write songs!!!
Trauma Junkie will be released on September 18.
ABOUT The Dogs are the Oslo-based band where only one member is actually from Oslo.
A punk rock band that believes they play soul and garage rock. In short, a band that has no idea who they are or what they’re doing. This confusion has however resulted in a total of 12 albums, countless Norwegian tours, unusual one-off events such as opening for Bruce Springsteen, and musical contributions to the new Harry Hole series on Netflix. In other words, they are well prepared for the Alzheimer’s they all have coming.
Confusingly enough, all signs are still pointing upward for the “Oslo band” in the autumn of their lives.
THE DOGS: Vocals – Kristopher Schau Guitar – Mads Martinsen Bass – Tommy Reite Drums – Henrik Odde Gustavsen Percussion – Kenneth Simonsen Keys – Stefan Höglin
German heavy metal torchbearers MYSTIC PROPHECY have announced their brand-new studio album, In Metal, set for release on November 27, 2026, via PERCEPTION – Powered by Reigning Phoenix Music. Marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the band, the album announcement arrives alongside the release of its first single, “Robots,” accompanied by an official music video.
With more than two decades of history behind it, MYSTIC PROPHECY has long established itself as one of the driving forces of the German and international heavy metal scene. Following the success of its acclaimed albums Metal Division and Hellriot, the quintet surrounding charismatic frontman R.D. Liapakis, also known for his work as a vocalist with Michael Schenker, now returns with renewed energy, a strengthened lineup and a record built to hit with maximum impact.
The first taste of In Metal comes in the shape of “Robots,” a hard-hitting statement that turns its attention to one of the defining questions of our time: In an age increasingly shaped by technology, how much control over our own humanity are we willing to surrender?
Vocalist R.D. Liapakis and Dan Baune (guitars) comment on “Robots”:
“In this age of technology our future seems uncertain. We must ask ourselves: How do we keep/protect our humanity? Who decides for us? Or is it too late and we are all Robots already?”
Following Hellriot, MYSTIC PROPHECY is entering its next era with three powerful new additions to the fold. Tommy Gun takes over bass duties, while guitaristDan Baune, known from NWOBHM act Monument, and drummer Christophe de Combe of Belgian metallers FireForce complete the renewed lineup. Together, they inject even more power, precision and fire into the unmistakable MYSTIC PROPHECY sound.
In Metal was produced by Dan Baune and R.D. Liapakis, with mixing and mastering handled by Henrik Udd. The album stays true to everything that has made MYSTIC PROPHECY a force for more than 20 years while pushing its sound firmly forward. Fans can expect powerful, concise hooks with instant shout-along appeal, technically brilliant riffs and a hard-hitting, monstrous sound. A modern production gives the songs weight, depth and unstoppable headbanging force without sacrificing the band’s classic heavy metal spirit.
Whether on stage or on record, MYSTIC PROPHECY has always treated heavy metal as a passionate ultimate fight: no compromises, no holding back, just pure power. With In Metal, the band is ready to prove once again why it remains at the forefront of international heavy metal. In support of their upcoming album, MYSTIC PROPHECY will hit the road in late 2026, joined by special guests IRON SAVIOR and GENERATION STEEL. Find all dates listed below!
01. Robots 02. In Metal 03. March or Die 04. Don’t Run Away 05. Warhead 06. Angels Are Falling 07. When the Hammer Will Fall 08. My Inner Innocence 09. Devil’s Son 10. Warrior of Asgard
Release weeks are always special for bands; something they have worked towards for a long time, something to celebrate! And Canadian powerhouse Famous Strangers celebrate by doing what they do best: bringing their music to the stage. After kicking things off with festival appearances and select club shows and hitting the road for an extensive Western Canadian tour throughout August, the Edmonton-based band has been building momentum toward their debut – a tour that is now brought to a big finale with release shows in their hometown, where the four will present their self-titled debut album (out August 21) on two evenings as they release “FAMOUS STRANGERS”into the world.
After the first two highly acclaimed singles – the electrifying “Ghosts of Men” and the heavy “As Your Leader” – already set the tone, Famous Strangers decided to make the video single for the album release day a special treat for their fans by giving them a glance behind the scenes of the band jamming together: Simple, raw and genuine, the video for “Fire Inside” makes us feel the power, pure passion and thrilling energy these four bring into their music and live shows.
And the song couldn’t be a better fit for this: It’s a hymn of self-empowerment, celebrating the flame inside all of us that makes it possible to break all chains, to realise and live up to ones full potential. The band explains: “‘Fire Inside’ is about discovering your inner light and using it to become your best self. It reflects how past mistakes don’t define you, but they do shape who you become. The music came together quickly, but the lyrics took time – in fact, we’d sometimes perform it live by asking the audience for ideas while Amanda freestyled the entire song, including one memorable version about dinosaurs at a Drumheller show.”
It’s clear that this one is for the fans; the fans that are much more to the band than that, as Famous Strangers underline in a heartfelt message to their community: “You are not fans. You are friends. You are the reason we do this. Every show, every new person we meet, every message about how a song helped someone get through their day … that is everything to us. We are building something bigger than a band. We are building a community. And we want the whole world to know how worthy and beautiful and amazing they are. Come as you are. Be yourself. We are just getting started.”
With their self-titled debut album Famous Strangers introduce a sound that refuses to be confined to a single genre. From crushing heavy metal and hard rock to stripped-back blues, the record moves effortlessly between power and vulnerability, creating a listening experience that is as dynamic as it is deeply personal. At its heart, “FAMOUS STRANGERS” is an album about resilience, self-discovery, and finding strength through life’s challenges. Every song is rooted in genuine experiences, capturing moments of doubt, perseverance, triumph, and growth. As the band puts it: “At its core, it’s a reminder that no matter what you face, you’ll be okay and come out stronger on the other side.” More than a debut, the album is a declaration of purpose: It reflects who the band is, what they stand for, and the connection they hope to build with their audience. Whether listeners find empowerment, comfort, reflection, or simply a place where they can feel understood, “FAMOUS STRANGERS” invites you to experience every emotion along the way. With a fearless first statement, Famous Strangers are ready to make their mark and leave a lasting impression wherever the road leads.
Formed in 2023, Famous Strangers are the product of years of shared history within the music scene of Edmonton, Canada. Long before the band took shape, Jeff Kittlitz (Guitar, Backing Vocals) and Brian “Beej” Beejerson (Drums, Backing Vocals) had been writing together, following the dissolution of their previous band project This Is War around 2013. Their collaboration laid the groundwork for what would eventually evolve into something much larger. As the years progressed, Braden Sustrik (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals) joined through mutual connections, and the trio began developing instrumental material together. During the COVID era, their project shifted direction, transforming into a classic rock cover band. While this period refined their chemistry as players, the defining moment came when Amanda Kiernan (Lead Vocals) joined a rehearsal to jam. Her immediate connection to an original track marked a turning point. What had been an open-ended collaboration suddenly became a full-on band project. At that moment, Famous Strangers found their band identity. Though officially formed in 2023, the members of Famous Strangers had spent decades crossing paths, sharing stages, and building friendships. This history fuels their chemistry and sound, with each member contributing to a cohesive and dynamic lineup.
Drawing from a wide range of influences, Famous Strangers blend elements reminiscent of Judas Priest, Pink Floyd, Halestorm, Spiritbox, and Metallica, while also reflecting inspiration from Iron Maiden, Nightwish, and beyond. At the same time, their roots remain firmly grounded in the Edmonton scene, drawing influence from local bands and veteran musicians who helped shape their early careers. Today, the band continues to build on that foundation, channeling years of experience, collaboration, and shared passion into a sound that is both unpredictable and distinctly their own.
German black metallers BOÖTES VOID have delivered another intense glimpse into their upcoming new full-length, entitled “Panta Rhei”, which will be out on September 4 via Vendetta Records. Following the release of the first single & video “Nihil”, the band now follows up with the album’s title track.
The song features guest contributions by Austria’s ELLENDE and you can listen here:
“We deliberately wrote this song to be full of contrasts, reflecting the natural cycle of change that shapes everything“, the band comments. “The last glimmer of hope in the face of all these crises and all this suffering: even if all this shit has to end along with humanity for things to get better, at least it’ll be better afterwards“.
Tracklist:
01. Crown Of Vermin 02. Shapers Of The End 03. Nihil 04. Onwards To Our Death 05. Lost In Oblivion 06. Nebula 07. Panta Rhei 08. Requiem
Taking its name from the ancient Greek philosophical principle of Heraclitus – “everything flows” – BOÖTES VOID‘s upcoming album“Panta Rhei”revolves around the doctrine of perpetual change, exploring the idea that nothing in existence remains fixed. Every moment transforms us, every experience reshapes the world around us, and permanence itself proves to be an illusion.
This timeless concept forms the philosophical backbone of BOÖTES VOID‘s new record, weaving together a series of seemingly distinct lyrical themes into one cohesive narrative. Across the album, each composition examines a different aspect of human existence while contributing another piece to its overarching vision.
Opening tracks such as “Crown of Vermin” and “Shapers of the End” confront oppressive power structures built upon suffering and expose the collective helplessness of societies consuming themselves in pursuit of progress, even as they accelerate the very collapse they fear.
As the album unfolds, these themes gradually converge in the title track “Panta Rhei”, where Heraclitus’ philosophy provides the record’s ultimate resolution. Instead of resisting change, the album embraces impermanence as an essential condition of life – suggesting that transformation, loss and renewal are inseparable parts of existence itself.
Formed in 2019, BOÖTES VOID have since released the demo ‘The Alder’s Sleep’, the EP ‘Alder’s Heresy’ (2019), and two full-length albums, ‘C.O.L.D.’ (2022) and ‘Singularity’ (2023). With “Panta Rhei”, the band now embarks on its next chapter, pushing both its philosophical vision and sonic identity further than ever before.
FOGHAT double CD “Live & Loud Across the U.S.A.” will be released on 30 October by Metalville.
The Boogie Rolls On
Some bands survive on memories. Foghat continues to make new ones.
More than 55 years after forming in the UK, FOGHAT remain one of rock ’n’ roll’s hardest-working and most respected live bands. Whilst many of their contemporaries have now scaled back their activities, FOGHAT continue to tour extensively, record new music and deliver the high-energy performances that have made them a fan favourite for generations.
‘Live & Loud Across the U.S.A.’ captures FOGHAT doing what they’ve always done best – on stage. Recorded during the “Twang & Bang Tour 2026”, these powerful live recordings – released here for the first time – from various cities across America showcase a band that still plays with the passion, chemistry and fire that have defined FOGHAT since 1971.
FOGHAT are exactly what they’ve always been: a brilliant live rock ’n’ roll band.
The second CD of “Live & Loud Across the U.S.A.” also features “Shaken & Stirred” by EARL & THE AGITATORS, a real highlight from the band’s catalogue. The blues-rock project, comprising the current FOGHAT line-up of Roger Earl, Bryan Bassett, Scott Holt and Rodney O’Quinn, was originally released in 2018 and explores the band’s shared passion for blues, roots rock and classic American music. In the vinyl version of “Live & Loud Across the U.S.A.”, “Shaken & Stirred” will be released as a separate album.
The story of Foghat began in 1971, when drummer Roger Earl and singer/guitarist Lonesome Dave Peverett left Savoy Brown to form a band whose music was influenced by American blues and British rock. This vision gave rise to a remarkable body of work, starting with their first single in 1972 and continuing through to the multi-platinum albums “Fool for the City” and “Foghat Live”, which featured timeless classics such as “Slow Ride” and established FOGHAT as one of the leading live bands of the 1970s.
The current line-up continues this tradition and honours FOGHAT’s legacy. Alongside founding drummer Roger Earl, the line-up comprises long-standing guitarist and producer Bryan Bassett, acclaimed guitarist and singer Scott Holt, and bassist and singer Rodney O’Quinn. With Scott Holt, who played in Buddy Guy’s band for many years, FOGHAT have now come full circle to their original blues/rock days.
The band’s creative spirit was once again demonstrated with the studio album “Sonic Mojo”, released in 2023. It debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Blues/Rock Albums chart and subsequently remained in the top ten for 34 weeks.
“As long as people keep coming to the shows and having as much fun as we do, we’ll keep doing this,” says founder Roger Earl. “We’ve never taken our fans for granted. They’re the reason we’re still out here, and every night we walk on stage, we want to give them everything we’ve got.”
“Live & Loud Across the U.S.A.” is not simply another live album. It is a snapshot of a band still firing on all cylinders-a celebration of the music, the friendships, and the fans who have made this remarkable journey possible.
Roger Earl sums it up best:“We’re still having a blast. I love playing with this band! We have a lot of fun making music together and genuinely enjoy playing for our incredible fans. As long as we can keep doing that, we’ll keep rolling down the highway.”
The road stretches ahead. The amps are still turned up. And the boogie rolls on. Keep on Rockin’
TRACK-LISTING
CD1 – (Including the cities where the songs were recorded) 01. My Babe (Ferndale, WA) 02. Drivin’ On (Miami, OK) 03. Road Fever (Atlantic City, NJ) 04. She’s a Little Bit of Everything (Atlantic City) 05. Let Me Love You Baby (Atlantic City, NJ) 06. Black Days & Blue Nights (Indianapolis, IN) 07. Home in My Hand (Great Falls, MT) 08. Slipped, Tripped, Fell in Love (Miami, OK) 09. It Hurts Me Too (Tracy, CA) 10. Hold to Hide In (Great Falls, MT) 11. Somebody’s Been Sleeping in My Bed (Bethlehem, PA) 12. Third Time Lucky (Great Falls, MT) 13. Sweet Home Chicago (Atlantic City, NJ) 14. I Just Want to Make Love to You (Miami, OK)
CD2 Earl & The Agitators (aka Foghat) – Shaken & Stirred 01. Upside Of Lonely 02. Where’s The Rock N’ Roll 03. I’m Coming Home 04. Guess Things Happen That Way 05. Love Isn’t Kind 06. Fallen Angel 07. Hi-Heel Sneakers 08. Linda Lu 09. Honey Do List 10. Lonesome Train 11. Sunday Morning Coming Down 12. Gone Dead Train 13. All Becasue Of You 15. Shaky Ground 16. Wild Horses 17. Knock On Wood 18. Peter Gunn Theme
LINE-UP Scott Holt – guitars, lead vocals Bryan Bassett – guitars Rodney O’Quinn – bass Roger Earl – drums
Mason are now gearing up for the release of their third album “Edge Of Destruction” which is out on 25th September, and release their first single from this, ‘This Thing Called Love‘, out now on Eonian Records.
Marcus comments “we were incredibly fortunate to collaborate with legendary vocalist and songwriter Steve Overland (FM, Lonerider, Kings Of Mercia, Overland), who contributed backing vocals to ‘This Thing Called Love.’ He states: “This thing called love was originally written in 1987-1988 by John McAfee. John presented the digitalized original demo to me last year and I immediately was hooked on its memorable and catchy choruses, and distinctive verses. I was sold! Once it was re-recorded, the song missed something special on backups. That is where Steve Overland was brought in who was the perfect complimentary piece to the overall feel and sound of the track.”
Some artists spend years chasing the sound of their youth. Marcus Mason has spent a lifetime figuring out how to push it forward. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, in 1988, Marcus Mason came of age at a time when the musical landscape was moving rapidly away from the sounds that fascinated him most. While rap, hip-hop, punk, and post-grunge dominated much of the late ’90s and early 2000s, Mason found himself looking backward: to the melodic hard rock, arena-sized choruses and polished AOR of the late ’70s, ’80s and early ’90s. It was not nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. It was instinct.
Mason’s breakthrough came in 2024 with the release of his debut album, “I Can’t Wait”, through Lions Pride Music. The record introduced a songwriter with an unapologetic affection for classic AOR but enough personality to make the formula his own. Songs including “One Life,” “I Can’t Wait” and “My Desire” emerged as standouts, while the album drew enthusiastic reviews from outlets including Fireworks Magazine, ViriAOR and Rockposer. In Germany, Rock It! reviewer Jörg Bonszkowski ranked “I Can’t Wait” among his Top 10 albums of 2024, placing it at No. 6. For Mason, the debut established the blueprint. The next album would expand it.
In 2025, Mason signed with Eonian Records for sophomore release “Seconds to Impact”, a record that marked a noticeable leap in songwriting, performance, and production. Led by the July 2025 single “All I Ever Wanted,” and followed by “Hard to Tame” and “Waiting for You,” the album broadened Mason’s profile within the international melodic rock and AOR community. “Seconds to Impact” balanced the unmistakable DNA of classic AOR with a more contemporary edge: smooth, melodic hard rock built around muscular guitars, polished keyboards, memorable choruses, and Mason’s clear, melodic vocals.
Now comes the record designed to push Mason further still. Mason’s third album, “Edge Of Destruction” is not about abandoning what worked. It is about making everything bigger. Across eleven songs and an instrumental, Mason moves confidently between hard-driving melodic rock, mid-tempo AOR and sweeping ballads, with a renewed emphasis on songwriting, arrangements, and production. The hooks remain immediate, but the scope has widened. The guitars are still big. The keyboards still shimmer. The choruses still arrive with the intention of staying in your head long after the record stops spinning.
But by Edge of Destruction, Mason no longer sounds like an artist searching for his identity. He sounds like one who has found it.
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 ) 