Despised Cruelty began in 2013 in Bełchatów as the atmospheric black metal solo project of visionary musician Michał Bentyn. After releasing a demo tape titled “Seasons,” Bentyn made the move to Łódź, where his project quickly evolved from a one-man endeavor into a full-fledged band. 2016 marked a turning point in the band’s history with the release of their second demo, “Fall of All the Divine.” Around this time, Despised Cruelty began to make their mark on the Polish music scene, performing live across the country and supporting international bands.
Their first full-length album, “Łez padół,” was released in 2019, solidifying their reputation in the scene. During the pandemic, the band retreated to work on new material.
The evolution of Despised Cruelty showcases the determination and creativity deeply rooted in black metal, hinting at a promising future for this Polish band.
After 5 years Despised Cruelty released second studio album.
Band comments their latest release: “Niech zdycha is a bold fusion of modern melodic influences with a distinctly urban feel. Powerful riffs and haunting melodies are combined with aggressive, provocative lyrics, creating a soundscape characterized by hopelessness, anger, and profound dissatisfaction with the current state of the world. Through this uncompromising expression of despair, it captures the raw emotions of a generation disillusioned with the present.“
Music for “Niech zdycha” album was recorded by Sławomir Papis at Case Studio. All tracks were mixed and mastered by Jakub Piotrowski. Cover photography was done by Daniel Pryga, where layout by Michał Bentyn. Album was released on December 18, 2024 by Talheim Records Germany on digital format and jewelcase CD.
Listen to the “Niech Zdycha” album here:
Tracklist:
1. Zgliszcza 2. I niech się niesie… 3. Chleb powszedni 4. Twoje miejsce 5. Niech zdycha 6. Pętla
As previously announced, iconic guitar legends Joe Satriani and Steve Vai have joined forces to create the SATCHVAI Band. Today, we are excited to introduce the full band line-up: powerhouse drummer Kenny Aronoff, renowned bassist Marco Mendoza, and virtuoso guitarist Pete Thorn complete the stellar quintet that is SATCHVAI Band.
“Finding the right musicians for the SatchVai Band was at first a daunting task, then, an exciting one; there are so many great musicians to choose from!” says Satriani. “It’s no secret that the chemistry between players will always be the thing that makes them a magical live band, and we’ve found that chemistry with Kenny, Marco, and Pete. The upcoming shows will focus on not only our respective solo works, but also the music from our new album. We are so excited to get this show on the road and celebrate it with all of our fans!”
As Vai explains, “When considering forming one band around myself and Joe we talked about the qualities needed for each position, bass, drums, rhythm guitar. It was a surprising challenge to find the right fits.”
Drummer Kenny Aronoff is no stranger to Satriani fans. He has toured alongside Joe as part of the Chickenfoot band, joined on Satriani solo tours since 2019, played on The Elephant of Mars album, and most recently stepped in for Jason Bonham on the Best of All Worlds tour with Satriani, Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony.
“What can I say about the legendary Kenny Aronoff that I haven’t said before?” asks Satriani. No other drummer has the sound, feel, time, groove, and swagger like Kenny. He’s an exceptional human being too. He’s supernatural!”
“Kenny is the quintessential rock drummer,” said Vai. “His time is bullet-proof, his tone is fat and clean, and his ability to respond in an improvisational setting is instant. Besides that, he’s one of the easiest and most fun guys to tour with—an essential quality on the road.”
When it came to adding a rhythm guitarist and bass player, the duo was challenged to find the right combo. Vai had been aware of Pete Thorn for quite a while and knew he was perfect for their band. As Vai explains, “Pete’s playing is rock solid with a huge tone in his fingers. His rhythm playing is tight and in tune in a way that’s rare, and his intonation is stunning. He’s the perfect musician for this band, and we couldn’t be happier to have him.”
Satriani agrees, “Pete is an all-around monster guitarist. He has that rare ability to shine on rhythm and lead guitar, switching back and forth with finesse. He’s got the technical abilities and the rock ‘n’ roll attitude Steve, and I were hoping to find for our band.”
Then came the choice for bassist, again Vai says of the addition of Marco Mendoza, “Marco is a bass phenomenon. With his 6-string fretless, his bass sings with perfect intonation and swooning vibrato. His wide, rich tone and masterful control of dynamics will bring a new dimension to our songs.”
With Satriani echoing, “Marco’s musicianship is boundless. He’s got a special magic to his bass playing; it’s both foundational and out front at the same time. Together with his exceptional singing voice and stage presence, he will be a driving force in our band.”
“I’ve been performing and recording music with Joe Satriani since 2012 (Chickenfoot, Sammy Hagar, G3 and Joe’s band) and have performed live with Steve Vai, but the next level is RIGHT NOW because I am joining the SATCHVAI band for a two-month tour this summer in Europe. I am pumped, excited and ready to kick ass!” – Kenny Aronoff
“It sounds like something out of a mad fantastical dream that the 14-year-old guitar-obsessed me would have had….’Joe Satriani and Steve Vai called, they want you to join their new band!’ And then I’d wake up and go to 9th grade math class! But it’s real! It’s a mind-blowing opportunity, and yet I also feel like I’ve arrived exactly where I’ve always wanted to be. I’m beyond excited to be of musical service to these legends, and to rock out!” – Pete Thorn
“I have to say that getting invited to be part of a great project like this is monumental for me personally! I know it’s going to be something very special, and I can’t wait to get it started.” – Marco Mendoza
The SATCHVAI Band tour will kick off on June 13, 2025, and feature stops in major cities like London, Paris, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam, and will also include performances at major European summer festivals including Hellfest, Umbria Jazz Festival and Guitares en Scene Fest. The tour is set to conclude in late July, with more dates to be announced soon.
Celebrating nearly five decades of musical friendship, Joe Satriani and Steve Vai made their first musical collaboration debut in March 2024. “The Sea of Emotion, Pt. 1” showcases the unmatched synergy between these two legendary guitarists as they seamlessly trade solo sections throughout the nearly six-minute opus. Their second collaboration is set to be released just before the European tour, adding even more anticipation for this epic run.
Stay tuned for more details on this unprecedented collaboration and the release of their highly anticipated new music.
Photo by Jon Luini
Surfing with the Hydra Tour 2025 Itinerary (new dates in bold): June 13 York, UK – Barbican June 14 London, UK – Eventim Apollo June 17 Glasgow, SC – Glasgow Royal Concert Hall June 18 Wolverhampton, UK – Civic Hall June 19 Manchester, UK – O2 Apollo June 21 Clisson, FR – Hellfest June 22 Paris, FR – Palais Des Congres June 23 Amsterdam, NL – Amsterdam Afas June 24 Antwerp, BE – Lotto Arena June 26 Copenhagen, DK – Amager Bio June 27 Malmo, SE – Slagthuset Saluhallen June 29 Helsinki, FI – House of Culture June 30 Tampere, FI – Tampere Hall July 2 Uppsala, SE – Parksnackan July 3 Oslo, NO – Sentrum Scene July 5 Warsaw, PL – Torwar July 8 Munich, DE – Tollwood Festival July 10 Dusseldorf, DE – Mitsubishi Electric Hall July 11 Frankfurt, DE – Jahrhunderthalle July 12 Zurich, CH – Volkshaus Zürich July 13 Milan, IT – Comfort Festival @ Villa Casati Stampa July 15 Pordenone, IT – Parco San Valentino July 16 Perugia, IT – Umbria Jazz July 17 Bologna, IT – Sequoie Music Park July 18 Saint-Julien, FR – Guitares en Scene Festival July 20 Prague, CZ – Forum Karlin July 22 Sofia, BG – National Palace of Culture July 23 Bucharest, RO – Arenele Romane July 25 Istanbul, TR – KüçükÇiftlik Park (not yet on sale) July 28 Athens, GR – Lycabettus Theater
For over three decades, the guitar virtuoso has travelled the world, playing to sold-out crowds as both a headliner and as founder of the all-star “G3” guitar extravaganza. Satriani’s studio and live recordings have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide to date and of his many solo albums, two have gone platinum and four others went gold, with 15 Grammy nominations between them. He launched his annual “G4 Experience” in 2014 bringing aspiring guitarists together for four days of workshops, mentor sessions and live performances, providing an exclusive learning platform led by him and his accomplished peers. In 2021, he introduced the “Crystal Planet” comic series, a five-part opus interweaving the realms of music and art. The tour documentary “Beyond the Supernova,” directed by ZZ Satriani and currently available for streaming, offers an intimate behind-the-scenes glimpse that intricately chronicles his life, illuminating the profound dedication that fuels his guitar mastery. His side project, Chickenfoot, featuring former Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar, former bassist Michael Anthony and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer Chad Smith saw their debut album certified gold and their second studio album debuted at #9. Satriani released his 19th studio album, The Elephants of Mars, in April 2022. It was a busy 2024 for Joe Satriani as he embarked on the highly anticipated G3 Reunion tour alongside the original powerhouse line-up: Satriani, Eric Johnson and Steve Vai. This was followed by the Satch/Vai duo tour, where the longtime friends not only shared the stage but also unveiled a new musical collaboration together. Rounding out the year, Satriani joined forces with Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, and Jason Bonham for the Best of All Worlds tour, which sold out arenas nationwide and was met with widespread fan and critical acclaim.
Steve Vai is a virtuoso guitarist, composer, and producer, considered by many as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. In over 45 years in the industry, Vai has sold over 15 million records, received three Grammy Awards, and recorded with music legends like Frank Zappa, David Lee Roth, Whitesnake and many more. Vai has also toured extensively and recorded live projects with G3 (collaborating with different touring line-ups including Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Eric Johnson, Yngwie Malmsteen, and Steve Lukather) and Generation Axe, a supergroup Vai formed with Zakk Wylde, Yngwie Malmsteen, Nuno Bettencourt and Tosin Abasi. Vai is the author of Vaideology: Basic Music Theory for Guitar Players (Hal Leonard), his inaugural music theory book designed to help both beginners and veteran guitar players. In the recent past, he has travelled the globe supporting his most recent studio album Inviolate, staging performances in 51 counties across the globe. Over the course of his 43 years touring, he continues to visit locations for the first time. His final excursion in 2023 saw Vai perform in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Kaohsiung (Taiwan), Zallak (Bahrain), Bangalore and Kolkata (India), alongside six new markets in China (Foshan, Xi’an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Nanjing, and Hefei).
About Kenny Aronoff Kenny Aronoff is a world-renowned drummer celebrated for his precision, versatility, and powerhouse performances. With a career spanning over four decades, Aronoff has played on more than 60 Grammy-nominated recordings and worked with an extraordinary range of artists, including John Mellencamp, John Fogerty, Elton John, Bob Dylan, and Chickenfoot. His contributions extend across genres, from rock and pop to jazz and country, showcasing his adaptability and mastery of rhythm. A sought-after session and touring musician, Aronoff is known for his high-energy style and impeccable timing, which have established him as a prominent figure in the music industry. In addition to his extensive studio and live work, he is a published author, motivational speaker, and educator, sharing his experiences and expertise with audiences worldwide.
About Pete Thorn Pete Thorn is a celebrated guitarist whose dynamic and versatile playing has earned him spots alongside legends like Don Henley, Chris Cornell, and Melissa Etheridge. Originally from Edmonton, Thorn moved to Los Angeles to study at the prestigious Musicians Institute, launching a prolific career that includes stints with Sony-signed band Surreal McCoys and rock acts like Forty Foot Echo and Five for Fighting. Beyond his work as a sideman, Thorn has toured globally with stars such as Jewel and Mylene Farmer and collaborated with luminaries like Courtney Love and Linda Perry. His solo album Guitar Nerd showcases his mastery across a range of styles, from bluesy shredding to atmospheric fingerpicking. A true “guitar nerd,” Thorn also shares his expertise with a massive audience on his YouTube channel, where his gear demos and tutorials have amassed millions of views, solidifying his status as a modern guitar virtuoso.
About Marco Mendoza Marco Mendoza is a highly versatile bassist, vocalist, and songwriter with an extensive career that spans a variety of genres. He has recorded and toured with some of the biggest names in rock, including Blue Murder, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, Ted Nugent, and The Dead Daisies. A dynamic live performer, Marco is equally at home on large stages as in intimate settings, showcasing his ability to play everything from jazz and Latin groove to hard rock. As a solo artist, he has released several acclaimed albums, including Viva La Rock, Live for Tomorrow, and New Direction. In addition to his musical achievements, Marco is a dedicated ambassador for music, connecting with fans through clinics and interviews. With The Dead Daisies, he has contributed to multiple studio and live albums, performing across the globe from Cuba to Australia.
WEAPON OF PRIDE have released a new lyric video for ‘Awaken’ from the band’s album “Beneath the Surface,” which is out via Wormholedeath.
Weapon of Pride, a power trio and stoner metal Band from Phoenix, Arizona, delivers heavy riffs, thrashy tempos, and an old-school vibe. With their debut EP Retribution (2021) and full-length album Taking Over (2023), they’ve made waves in the metal scene. Blending Heavy Metal, Thrash, Progressive, and Stoner Metal, Weapon of Pride draws inspiration from metal giants while carving their path. The band features brothers Ryan Arnold (bass/vocals), Logan Arnold (guitar), and drummer Adam Duplack.
FRAGMENTARY SOLID ABYSS has released ‘The King’s Feast’ music video, taken from “Concento Pavor Nocturnus” album, which is out via Wormholdeath.
Ömer Doğramacı is a multidimensional artist and musician blending diverse cultural and musical influences. Born in the Bronx, he draws inspiration from traditional Turkish, Middle Eastern, jazz, rock, and electronic music, creating fluid, boundary-defying compositions. His visual art explores the intersection of spirituality and the material world, using various mediums to reflect his mystical journey.
‘Dark Wing Gospel’ is the second album from Amsterdam-based Italian composer Carlo M. Dini and his BLACK YET FULL OF STARS Project, and to say that it doesn’t disappoint is an understatement!
Dini’s ability to stray from the symphonic metal herd and produce a captivating and utterly unique listening experience comes naturally for the composer, as he presents this elaborate collection of six spellbinding compositions that delve deep into the crevasse of Symphonic, Progressive Metal, adding Power metal elements among a rich and tapestry of layered aural arrangements.
Written and produced entirely by Carlo, ‘Dark Wing Gospel’ was recorded with Michiel van der Plicht (Pestilence, God Dethroned, Carach Angren), Ludovico Cioffi (Delain, Modern Age Slavery, Nightland) amongst other incredible guests.
With elements of power, progressive, and heavy metal, the album showcases all that Carlo has learned since starting his film scoring company in Amsterdam and it features unique taste in blending heavy guitar riffs, elaborate orchestral arrangements, dramatic symphonic choruses and unique harmonies, all driven by horror-themed lyrics, about an alchemist turned serial killer.
The album is a triumph of self-production, with Carlo M. Dini taking full control of both the music and the lyrics, as well as the production and arrangement of each track, down to every minute detail.
It was written “backwards” when it comes of the typical arrangement process: Carlo wrote all the orchestral and voice lines first, with a first intention of releasing the record with just these two elements. The metal band was arranged on top of the existing orchestra in all of the songs. ‘Dark Wing Gospel’ was re-amped by Stefano Morabito (Fleshgod Apocalypse, Hideous Divinity) and mixed and mastered by Simone Mularoni (Rhapsody, Vision Divine, Michael Romeo).
The sound is defined by its masterful use of orchestral arrangements, with lead singer Davide Penna seamlessly blending clean vocals with Ludovico Cioffi’s powerful growls, creating a dynamic and evocative listening experience. Massive sounding string sections, a fifteen people choir, and cinematic soundscapes are prominently featured, adding a lush, elegant and epic quality to the music that sets it apart from typical symphonic metal releases. Each track takes the listener on a journey through dark, introspective themes, exploring topics such as madness, art and alchemical symbolisms.
Album Track-listing 1. Halom Shacor 2. The Great Work 3. Nigredo, Foulest Servant 4. Albedo, Ancient Heart 5. Rubbed, The Artist 6. King of Salt
Watch recently released ‘Nigredo, Foulest Servant‘ here:
About Carlo M. Dini. Carlo M. Dini studied music on his own during his university years, switching his focus from classical to electric guitar, eventually focusing more and more on harmony and composition. He started Black Yet Full of Stars in Italy, and wrote the first release under the name Black Yet Full of Stars between 2010 and 2014, during the same years in which he had started studying orchestration.
The first release (self-titled, Rockshots Records, 2016) has been well received by reviewers and featured a much more trash and heavy metal influence. When Carlo moved to Amsterdam to complete his university studies and made of his orchestral music “hobby” his daily job, he also turned Black yet Full of Stars into his metal playground, and decided to experiment – within the metal music context – how the orchestra can be featured together with the band, changing line-up and finding new guests for his records every time.
With influences ranging from Nightwish to Peter Gabriel, Carlo has created a sound that is both personal and epic in scale, and aims to make of Black yet Full of Stars a unique orchestral metal project.
[Photo by Robert Eikelpoth / Photo editing by Blake Armstrong]
2024 was a triumphant year for international symphonic metal frontrunners VISIONS OF ATLANTIS. The release of their latest full-length album, Pirates II – Armada, marks the band’s most successful record to date, climbing to top positions on international charts, including #5 on the German and Austrian Official Album Charts, #4 on the UK Rock & Metal Charts, and #2 on the US Hard Music Album Charts, to name a few. The summer and fall were filled with extensive touring, enchanting their devoted fans across Europe and the UK.
But pirates never rest, nor do the raging seas! Immediately after their tour, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS surprised fans with another stunner: the launch of the digital live series Armada Live Over Europe. By releasing live songs and videos throughout recent and upcoming weeks, the symphonic metallers have kept excitement levels at an all-time high. So far, eight videos have been released, capturing the explosive energy of a VISIONS OF ATLANTIS live show and allowing listeners to relive the incomparable spirit of their recent tour from the comfort of home.
Today, the series continues with the fan-favorite high-energy track, “Hellfire”, performed live in Pratteln on October 17, 2024. The track features a visceral guitar solo and a stunning vocal performance by pirate queen Clémentine Delauney and her captain, Michele Guaitoli. Alongside its availability on all digital platforms, the live series will culminate in a five-part digital live album, which can now be pre-ordered.
For fans in North America, the live album will be the perfect way to warm up for VISIONS OF ATLANTIS’s upcoming tour, taking place in April 2025. Tickets for this adventurous ride are on sale now, and fans won’t want to miss the unique VIP upgrade, which includes an exclusive acoustic set performed for a small audience before the show—creating memories to last a lifetime!
Pirate Queen Clementine states: “This one is for anyone waking up and finding their own strength and voice again. For anyone tired of listening to whispers that urge us to dim our light. ‘Hellfire’ represents strong minds, unafraid to carve their own paths and unconcerned with others’ opinions. It’s the chant of rebels fighting against those who abuse power to manipulate others. May we all reclaim power over our own lives.”
Subscribe to the playlist HERE and don’t miss a new live video!
Armada Live Over Europe shows the gripping stage presence and artistic high-quality of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS. The pirate crew, fronted by vocalists Clémentine Delauney and Michele Guaitoli, have managed to create their very own inimitable universe with symphonic heaviness and stunning visuals, and encourages their listeners to join them into a world where spirits are free, hearts are true and where light always rules over darkness, whatever the cost. Fans can expect a colorful range of songs, mostly taken from the band’s previous two records Pirates (2022) and Pirates II – Armada (2024).
Armada Over North America 02.04.25 US – Mechanicsburg / Lovedrafts 03.04.25 US – Baltimore / Ottobar 04.04.25 US – Pittsburgh / Preserving Underground 05.04.25 US – New York / Meadows 06.04.25 US – Cambridge / Middle East 08.04.25 CA – Quebec City / La Source Martinière 09.04.25 CA – Toronto / Lee’s Palace 10.04.25 US – Detroit / The Sanctuary 11.04.25 US – Joliet / The Forge 12.04.25 US – St. Paul / Turf Club 14.04.25 CA – Edmonton / Starlite 15.04.25 CA – Calgary / Dickens 16.04.25 US – Seattle / El Corazon 17.04.25 US – Portland / The Bossanova Ballroom 18.04.25 US – San Francisco / DNA Lounge 19.04.25 US – Los Angeles / Whisky A Go Go 21.04.25 US – San Diego / Brick By Brick 24.04.25 US – Las Vegas / The Usual Place 25.04.25 US – Phoenix / The Rebel Lounge 26.04.25 US – Salt Lake City / Soundwell 27.04.25 US – Denver / Oriental Theater 28.04.25 US – El Paso / Rockhouse Bar & Grill 29.04.25 US – Dallas / Granada Theater
VIP Upgrades area available for every show! Tickets & VIP Upgrades available HERE
VISIONS OF ATLANTIS are: Clémentine Delauney – Vocals Michele Guaitoli – Vocals Christian Douscha – Guitars Herbert Glos – Bass Thomas Caser – 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 ) 