VISIONS OF ATLANTIS Storm International Charts with “Pirates II – Armada”

Posted by metalshockfinland on July 19, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
[Photo by Robert Eikelpoth / Photo editing by Blake Armstrong]

The pirates of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS have topped the charts worldwide, reaching #5 on the Official German Album Charts, #5 on the Official Austrian Album Charts, #4 on the UK Rock Charts, #30 on the UK Official Sales Charts, #16 on the Official Swiss Album Charts, #2 on the US Hard Music Album Charts, #3 on the Canadian Hard Music Album Charts and #39 on the French Physical Album Charts – to only name a few – with their new album, Pirates II – Armada.

This album continues and expands on the success of Pirates (2022), which charted in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the UK, USA, Canada, and various other positions in Europe upon its release. Furthermore, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS conquered the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise, the Sabaton Cruise, ProgPower USA, Bloodstock Festival UK, and several other festivals, as well as a 2023 North American headline tour. This fall, the band will embark on 33 shows all over Europe – the biggest headline tour of their promising career so far. Brace yourself and prepare for this unique symphonic metal spectacle!

Visions Of Atlantis state:
“Thank you, Sailors, worldwide for joining our mighty ARMADA!”

Get Your Copy of Pirates II – Armada HERE

Ship’s log:         
July 5, 2024; High Seas
A new day of sailing begins, the wind on our side, and the sea speaks of recent battles. The air feels fresh – Hypocrisy, greed, envy – hearts of the old world finally disclose their deluded truth. Old leaders are losing ground, their lies are getting worse, and darkness creeps in. Each sunny day hides a coming storm, nature testing our strength for the last battle.

We’ve become pirates as their counterparts, free-spirited and true at heart. Navigating storms that try to make us doubt, we see the light in the darkness. The old truth is fading, making room for a new story. Our destiny is in our hands, in our hearts, in every step we take. Reconnecting with ourselves, we touch the essence of life we share with all creatures. Together, unstoppable, connected to the truth, guided by the sun and storms.

We’ll rule the oceans, the mainland, every street, every house, spreading hope. Our pirate cries will last for centuries, with ancestors humming our tunes, our words sung in the new world we create. Our glory will live on forever. United as one force, one army, under a final ARMADA.”

Emotions, depth, richness of sound. Not only a record, but a true hurricane of feelings is what VISIONS OF ATLANTIS delivers with the new album, Pirates II – Armada. The uplifting “Tonight I’m Alive” surprises and captivates with the rhythms of a pirate party on the eve of combat, with the electrifying rumble of a hurricane – a unique, uncharted showcase of talent from VISIONS OF ATLANTIS. The burning flames of “Hellfire” enchant the listener before the sweetness of delicate melodies accompany them “Underwater”. The cinematic adventure of 7-minute-plus masterpiece “The Dead of the Sea” conjures the salty scent of the sea, making the listener feel – in every melodic twist and theatrical orchestral hit – the cannons firing and the battle raging. Listeners will shed a tear while mourning under the melody of “Ashes to the Sea”.

PIRATES II – ARMADA track listing:
1. To Those Who Choose to Fight
2. The Land of the Free
3. Monsters
4. Tonight I’m Alive
5. Armada
6. The Dead of the Sea
7. Ashes to the Sea
8. Hellfire
9. Collide
10. Magic of the Night
11. Underwater
12. Where the Sky and Ocean Blend

Pirates II – Armada features stunning cover artwork by Blake Armstrong, who is also responsible for bringing the fantastic photos of Robert Eikelpoth into VoA’s universe. Produced by Felix Heldt, mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen, and orchestrated by Lukas Knoebl and Simon Edward Pirates II – Armada will reach stages this summer, continuing to deliver a truly cinematic live event. The first North American tour was already a big success and for their next adventure VISIONS OF ATLANTIS sail back to conquer Europe this fall and your only choice is to join their Armada!

Visions of Atlantis Present Armada
w/ Illumishade
19.09.24 AT – Vienna / Szene
20.09.24 HU – Budapest / Barba Negra
21.09.24 CZ – Zlin / Masters of Rock Cafe
22.09.24 CZ – Prague / Meet Factory
24.09.24 PL – Warsaw / Proxima (venue upgrade)
25.09.24 DE – Berlin / Frannz
26.09.24 DE – Hamburg / Markthalle
27.09.24 DE – Leipzig / Hellraiser
28.09.24 DE – Essen / Turock
29.09.24 DE – Frankfurt / Das Bett
01.10.24 NL – Haarlem / Patronaat
02.10.24 NL – Tilburg / O13
03.10.24 BE – Kortrijk / DVG Club
04.10.24 UK – London / The Dome (venue upgrade)
05.10.24 UK – Manchester / Rebellion
07.10.24 UK – Bristol / Exchange
09.10.24 FR – Lyon / La Rayonne
10.10.24 FR – Toulouse / Metronum
11.10.24 ES – Barcelona / Sala Boveda
12.10.24 ES – Madrid / Sala Revi Live
13.10.24 PT – Lisbon / RCA Club
14.10.24 ES – Vitoria / Urban Rock Concept
15.10.24 FR – Paris / Petit Bain
16.10.24 DE – Munich / Backstage Halle
17.10.24 CH – Pratteln / Z7
18.10.24 CH – Wil / Gare de Lion
19.10.24 IT – Milan / Legend Club
21.10.24 DE – Nürnberg / Hirsch
22.10.24 DE – Cham / L.A.
23.10.24 DE – Stuttgart / Im Wizemann
24.10.24 AT – Wörgl / Komma
25.10.24 IT – Roncade / New Age
26.10.24 AT – Graz / PPC
 
Festivals:
18.07.24 FI – John Smith Rock Festival / Laukaa
10.08.24 DE – Das Grosse Treffen / Aach
23.08.24 DE – Rock im Hinterland / Obrigheim
24.08.24 DE – Lammer Open Air / Braunschweig
07.09.24 DE – Bongert Open Air / Brüggen

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS are:
Clémentine Delauney – Vocals
Michele Guaitoli – Vocals
Christian Douscha – Guitars
Herbert Glos – Bass
Thomas Caser – Drums

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS online:
NAPALM RECORDS
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
X

SIMONE SIMONS Releases Video for ‘R.E.D.’ from Debut Solo Album

Posted by metalshockfinland on July 19, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: , . Leave a comment

SIMONE SIMONS has released the video for ‘R.E.D.’, from her debut solo album, Vermillion, that’s set for release on 23rd August via Nuclear Blast Records.

SIMONE SIMONS & ARJEN LUCASSEN comment:

“R.E.D. deals with the rise of artificial intelligence, imagining a future where the creation begins to outpace the creator. It reflects on the AI’s growing self-awareness and its unfulfilled desire to experience emotions, something that its synthetic nature makes impossible to ever realize. The song also looks at the double-edged nature of technological advancements and the profound existential questions that are becoming ever more important to address.”

Pre-order and pre-save Vermillion now at: https://simonesimons.bfan.link/vermillion

About SIMONE SIMONS:

For more than 20 years, ever since she was a teenager, SIMONE SIMONS has been carving her own path as a woman within the world of metal. As a lead singer, icon, and role model for a whole generation of female metalheads, the Epica lead singer remains one of the most prominent key figures in all things metal. After eight albums and countless global tours with her band, SIMONE SIMONS finally found the time to release her first solo album – a moment 15 years in the making! Her breathtaking debut Vermillion is a stunning feat chronicling her storied past as well as her rise to fame, and showcasing her many different influences ranging from prog rock to film scores to metal to electronic elements.

Of the timing for her eagerly awaited foray into the realms of a solo career, the Dutch singer says with a disarming grin: Epica has my priority and I always have the liberty to do other musical projects besides my career in Epica. Yet, I never had the time to dive into a project to this extent.
Some endeavors require patience and time, and rightly so. Simone chose not to rush her solo project, opting instead to thoughtfully consider how she wanted to present herself. Enter stage right Arjen Lucassen (AYREON). Her musical partner and longtime collaborator is no stranger to her soaring operatic voice. Together they have crafted a sonic universe that befits the influential figure she is. And while many would use their solo effort as a radical, even provocative departure from everything they stood for, SIMONE remains true to her love for epic melodies, huge choruses and monumental, intelligent music.

More information at https://simonesimonsmusic.com/

Exclusive Premiere for Finland: SILVERA ‘Gone Too Far’ Official Video

Posted by metalshockfinland on July 19, 2024
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SILVERA proudly presents their highly anticipated fifth single and video, “Gone Too Far”, from their upcoming album. This track marks a notable shift in the band’s sound, embracing a softer and more introspective tone. Michael’s evocative vocals are beautifully complemented by the soulful presence of Guernica Mancini from The Gems (ex-Thundermother lead singer), creating a captivating duet that elevates the song to new emotional heights.

Lyrically, “Gone Too Far” delves into the poignant theme of a person’s quest for a new life, only to realize that their journey has led them astray, leaving them unable to find their way back home. The heartfelt lyrics and mellow tempo provide a contemplative atmosphere, making this single a standout piece in Silveras’ evolving musical repertoire.

Join the premiering here:

Coming from the same country that offered Volbeat and D-A-D to the world,  Silvera stands for hard rock with a modern twist and timeless melodies. More than taking the legacy of Denmarks’s rock and metal music, the nordic four-piece started building their own history in 2020 with “Edge Of The World”, the debut album that put them on the map of all modern hard rock lovers. Songs such as “Generation Z” and “Light In Life” immediately took off in streaming services, gathering more than one million hits each and starting the anticipation for Silvera’s sophomore album right there. 

Enter “World Behind Doors”. On their second album, Silvera endeavored to maintain the core elements of their own sound while also expanding the horizons. This led the four-piece to experiment with new techniques, such as incorporating harsh vocals into one of the songs and composing three new tracks in the studio. This departure from their previous approach, where the foundational elements of songs were typically established prior to entering the studio, allowed for a fresh creative process. The result: an even fresher set of songs, taking the best elements of metal rock and everything in between and putting them together to create songs that really stand out. 

Once again, all the music was meticulously recorded at Hansen Studios, with Jacob Hansen (Anette Olzon, Arch Enemy, Delain, Epica) playing a pivotal role in preserving the essence of the Silvera sound. His guidance in discerning which elements of the songs to emphasize proved invaluable, and his dedication truly shone through in the final product. Additionally, the vocals were expertly recorded at Martin Buus’ studio, where Martin’s skillful production not only enhanced Michael Krogh’s vocal range but also fostered a seamless collaboration between them. The synergy between Martin and Michael exceeded any expectations, resulting in an album that surpassed the band’s initial vision. 

On this album, akin to their first release, Silvera are thrilled to feature collaborations, this time with Dreamshade and Guarnica Mancini from The Gems / Thundermother, all of whom delivered exceptional performances. Their deep understanding of the band’s vision for the songs resulted in interpretations that, once again here, surpassed any expectations. 

“World Behind Doors,” has all it takes to propel Silvera toward new heights and make them step into the next level. If there is any justice left in the music business these days, that’s exactly what will happen. 

“World Beyond Doors” will be released on LP (yellow vinyl, limited to 100 copies), digipack CD and digital formats on August 23rd, 2024 via Mighty Music. 

Lineup:
Michael Krogh – guitar & vocals
Simon Krabbesmark – guitar & backing vocals
Rasmus Lindegård Hovde – bass & backing vocals
Martin Nielsen – drums

Digital single: https://bfan.link/gone-too-far

Webshop: https://bit.ly/slvr-tgt

More information:
https://silvera.dk/
https://www.facebook.com/silveraband
https://www.instagram.com/silveraband/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0uE76EfCRAHXuM0n5hesvK
https://silveradk.bandcamp.com/album/world-behind-doors
https://tidal.com/browse/album/148073127

MAJESTICA Release New Single + Video ‘A New Beginning’

Posted by metalshockfinland on July 17, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Photo courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/Majesticametal

MAJESTICA are back with their first new music of 2024! The swedish power metal quartet proudly presents their latest single ‘A New Beginning‘, which is the band’s first release since 2021. Therefore, the song name not only fits in relation to this, but also speaks about a new beginning and letting things come to an end. Paired with musical elements reminiscent of the 80s, MAJESTICA unleashes a new catchy tune upon their fans that puts the band back on the radar.

As if the release of this brand new single wasn’t enough, MAJESTICA have also delivered a brand new music video for their single, which you can watch here:

Tommy Johansson comments:
“When Majestica finally returns with a new song it couldn’t have been a better one than ‘A New Beginning’. Not only is it a heavy power metal song with a catchy sing-along chorus, it’s also very melodic in the style of  Stratovarius, 80’s rock and Helloween with some hints of Gary Moore. The song reflects on (as the title says) to start over, but also of something that comes to an end. But the end isn’t always a bad thing. It feels great to finally release some new music with Majestica again and to show that we’re back – back with a new beginning.”

Stream the new single here: https://majestica.bfan.link/a-new-beginning

DEMISER Unleash ‘Hell Is Full of Fire’ Video / Single

Posted by metalshockfinland on July 17, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by Savannah Bockus

“Hell Is Full Of Fire” is the new single from South Carolina hell bringers, DEMISER. The apocalyptic new hymn comes by way of the band’s Slave To The Scythe full-length, set for release on August 23 via Blacklight Media/Metal Blade Records.

The DEMISER collective features Demiser The Demiser (occult liturgic blasphemy), Gravepisser (six-stringed Satanic fukklord), Phallomancer (abysmal rhythm of death), Defiler (dismal baritone curator), and Infestor (purveyor of percussive bile). The nine-track Slave To The Scythe is a devastatingly intense slab of work; an aural harbinger of hellish intent that sees the band blend ’80s thrash, first-wave black metal, death metal, and a healthy dose of NWOBHM.

Latest album teaser, “Hell Is Full Of Fire,” is an epic tale of a demonic war, featuring the lines, “Call in the hordes, prepare for victory; The vermin Christ and his servants; Will soon plead as their blood spills; By the will of my steel.” The band further elaborates, “This was one that started with a riff Phallomancer brought to practice and we all jumped in and got it fleshed out. Lyrically, we were making up dumb song titles we thought Demiser The Demiser would write and somehow he dropped this gem out of his ass. We ran with it. We still regret it.”

Watch DEMISER‘s video for “Hell Is Full Of Fire” at THIS LOCATION.

Watch the band’s previously released video for “Infernal Bust” HERE.

Slave To The Scythe was recorded in the summer of 2023 with Chase McGuckin at Seaboard Recording Studio in West Columbia, South Carolina. “We record one at a time with scratch tracks and clicks and all. We recorded with minimal AC so it was hot as fucking shit.” The band sees Slave To The Scythe as the perfect followup to Through The Gate Eternal. “We feel like it’s a continuation of our first album and upholds the same ripping sound,” they say.

Slave To The Scythe will be available CD and digital formats as well as vinyl in “Carbureted Fire.” Find pre-orders at: blacklightmediarecords.com/demiser

For the uninitiated, DEMISER formed in 2017 with the mission of “getting big enough to get a free bar tab,” they say, with no trace of irony. The five men want to drink and play brutally heavy music. They describe the DEMISER sound as, “Fast-ripping black thrash with some dirty rock ‘n’ roll influence at times. As we’ve continued writing, we’ve come more into what DEMISER’s sound is rather than setting out to sound like a specific genre.”

The band’s influences include the likes of Venom, Bathory, Slayer, Motörhead, and Destroyer 666, plus movies like Terminator 2, Commando, and Predator (“pretty much anything Schwarzenegger really”). The overarching themes on Slave To The Scythe are essentially “hell, fire, and hellfire.” There are no ballads, no love songs – this is devilish music for devilish people that was largely written on the road.

DEMISER:
Defiler – bass
Demiser the Demiser – vocals
Infestor – drums
Gravepisser – guitars
Phalomancer – guitars

https://www.facebook.com/demiserofficial
https://www.instagram.com/demiserofficial
https://demiser.bandcamp.com

AMMIFY Drop Powerful Video for ‘Fluffy Little Rats’

Posted by metalshockfinland on July 17, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Australian cinemetal outfit Ammify pulls back the curtain on societal greed with the captivating music video for their track “Fluffy Little Rats,” featured on their acclaimed album “Lost, Not Hiding,” released via Wormholedeath Records.

Fluffy Little Rats is a tale of greed, control, the pursuit of money and power – this rat race that leads us to a false paradise. There are clowns around to make you feel happy to be alive. Are you a performer in this crazy, creepy circus? Or are you paying the fee to keep the circus going?

Directed and produced by Peter Renzullo, the music video for “Fluffy Little Rats” is a visually stunning exploration of the song’s themes. Astonishing visuals and Ammify’s signature cinemetal soundscape create a captivating experience.

Ammify’s debut album, “Lost, Not Hiding,” crafted by the dynamic duo of Ammy Phoenix and Pete Renzullo, delves deep into the realms of CineMetal, intertwining cinematic lyrics with crushing soundscapes. Despite its darkness, the album resonates with a resilient spirit, reflecting themes of anguish, anger, and hope. The collaboration between Ammy and Pete began serendipitously in 2018 and blossomed into a full album project in 2022, despite the physical distance between them. The remote collaboration allowed for a seamless creative process, resulting in 13 tracks that challenge traditional genre boundaries. Each song is a jewel in its own right, from the raw emotion of “Evaporate” to the operatic wonder of “Grief.” With plans for accompanying videos, live presentations, and acoustic renditions, the journey of Ammify is just beginning, promising a spirited and meaningful collaboration for years to come.

Stream “Lost, Not Hiding” here: orcd.co/lostnothiding

Connect with the band:
www.facebook.com/ammifymusic