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NOISE IN MYSELF Return with New Single ‘The Maze’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 27, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: NOISE IN MYSELF. Leave a comment

A new era for Noise in Myself has officially begun.

The Italian-Swiss Alternative Progressive Metal band returns to the scene with a completely renewed lineup and “The Maze”, an intense new single released by Wanikiya Record/Promotion and available on all major digital platforms.

After a period of hiatus and extensive internal restructuring, founder, guitarist, and songwriter Enea Maina rebuilt the project by bringing together highly experienced musicians with diverse artistic backgrounds, creating a lineup that marks the beginning of a new chapter for the band.

The new lineup features:

  • Enea Maina – Guitar & Songwriting
  • Arianna Bellinaso (Aexylium) – Vocals
  • Yuri Bordonali (Ecastor) – Bass
  • Omar Mariani (former Those Furious Flames) – Drums

“The Maze” represents the first step in this artistic rebirth and addresses one of the deepest and most universal themes of human experience: the labyrinth of the mind.

Through a refined parallel with the Greek myth of Ariadne and Theseus, the song explores the complexity of inner conflicts, emotional sacrifice, feelings of disorientation, and the difficult search for serenity.

The narrative is inspired by the version of the myth in which Ariadne helps Theseus escape the labyrinth using her famous thread, only to be abandoned later on the island of Naxos. From this story emerges a powerful psychological metaphor: the labyrinth becomes the human mind, the Minotaur represents one’s inner demons, and Ariadne’s thread symbolizes the attempt to find a way out of pain and confusion.

The first part of the story highlights the struggle against personal demons and the tendency to sacrifice oneself for people who do not deserve such devotion. This is followed by the desolation of abandonment and the loss of meaning, eventually leading to the true revelation: peace is not found by endlessly fighting one’s demons, but by learning to accept them and live alongside them.

Ariadne’s final ascension alongside Dionysus thus becomes a symbol of reconciliation with one’s true self, spiritual growth, and the achievement of a new level of awareness. The crown that transforms into the constellation Corona Borealis metaphorically represents the enlightenment attained after successfully navigating one’s own personal labyrinth.

Musically, “The Maze” confirms and expands the sonic identity of Noise in Myself: an atmospheric Alternative Progressive Metal sound rich in emotional depth and compositional sophistication, where melodic vocals intertwine with powerful riffs and intricate rhythmic structures.

The influence of bands such as Tool, Leprous, Soen, Anathema, and Porcupine Tree naturally emerges within a musical proposal that maintains a strong personality and a clear artistic vision.

With “The Maze”, Noise in Myself are not simply presenting a new lineup: they are declaring their return—more mature, self-aware, and determined than ever before.

The labyrinth is open.
The journey begins again.

BIOGRAPHY

Noise in Myself (NIM) is an Italian-Swiss band born from an idea conceived by Enea Maina, guitarist and songwriter from the Lugano region.

Active since 2020, NIM quickly established its artistic identity with the release of its debut album in 2022, followed by the concept EP “Answers…” in 2023, supporting both releases with an intense live activity.

After several lineup changes and a temporary interruption of activities at the end of 2024, the project was completely revitalized by Enea Maina with a new lineup featuring Arianna Bellinaso (Aexylium), Yuri Bordonali (Ecastor), and Omar Mariani (former Those Furious Flames).

Their sound blends Alternative Metal and Progressive Metal into a modern and emotional mix characterized by evocative atmospheres, melodic research, and introspective lyrics dealing with themes such as self-discovery, absence, personal growth, and the relationship between mythology and human consciousness.

“The Maze” is the first chapter of the new era of Noise in Myself.

Released by Wanikiya Record/Promotion.

More info: https://www.facebook.com/noiseinmyselfofficial

MOTHER MORGANA Sign with Argonauta Records, New Single ‘Janushead’ Out Now

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 27, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: MOTHER MORGANA. Leave a comment
photo by Hannes Mautner

Argonauta Records is proud to announce the signing of Austrian progressive heavy psych outfit Mother Morgana to its ever-growing international roster.

Hailing from Graz, Austria, Mother Morgana have steadily carved their own path within the European underground through a captivating blend of progressive rock, psychedelic atmospheres, stoner heaviness and immersive conceptual storytelling. Built around cinematic songwriting, dreamy melodies and thought-provoking lyrical narratives, the band has developed a distinctive identity that continues to evolve with every release.

Formed by musicians with backgrounds spanning jazz, blues, space rock and classic progressive rock, Mother Morgana first introduced their visionary approach with “Endonautica” (2018), a concept album inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s legendary 2001: A Space Odyssey. Their acclaimed sophomore effort “Rise” (2022) saw the band embracing darker and heavier sonic territories, combining crushing stoner rock riffs with heavy psych textures and subtle Middle Eastern influences.

Now, Mother Morgana are preparing to unveil their most ambitious and personal work to date, “Reflections of a Sunken Mind”, scheduled for release in 2026 via Argonauta Records. The album expands the band’s sonic palette through the evocative use of analog synthesizers, vintage-inspired sounds and emotionally charged compositions, while exploring themes of indoctrination, personal freedom and critical thinking in an era marked by misinformation, conflict and social division.

The first glimpse into this new chapter arrives with the brand new single “Janushead”, available now on all digital platforms: https://tidal.com/track/534740409/u

Speaking about the song, the band comments:
“Caught between apathy and anxiety, Janushead captures the fragile illusion of personal freedom in a world increasingly troubled by misinformation and war. Driven by a musical style of droning, drum-focused verses that layer a marching war-propaganda vibe, it forces us to realize that sitting on the sidelines won’t protect us and our minds from the rising storm.”

Regarding the signing with Argonauta Records, Mother Morgana states:
“We are happy to announce our signing with Argonauta Records. As an independent underground band, finding a label that respects our creative autonomy while supporting us in bringing our new music to light is a massive milestone for us. We are grateful to Gero and the Argonauta team for recognizing the value in what we do and for welcoming us into their roster. We hope to share our sound with a wider audience, and we look forward to a productive road ahead.”

With a sound that effortlessly navigates between expansive progressive landscapes, hypnotic psychedelic passages and crushing heavy rock grooves, Mother Morgana stand ready to reach a broader international audience while remaining faithful to the artistic integrity that has defined their journey from the very beginning.

For fans of progressive rock, heavy psych, stoner rock and concept-driven musical experiences, Mother Morgana represent one of the most exciting acts to watch in 2026.

Mother Morgana are:
Katharina Franz • Vocals, Keys, Synth
Fabian Gössler • Guitar
Jakob Mayer • Bass, Lyrics
Stefan Höfler • Drums

Discography:
Endonautica (2018)
Rise (2022)
Reflections of a Sunken Mind (2026)

More news on the forthcoming album coming soon.

https://www.facebook.com/mothermorgana
https://www.instagram.com/mothermorgana_official
https://mothermorgana.bandcamp.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ArgonautaRecords

STORM FORCE Announce New Album “Truth”, Self-Titled First Single Out Now

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 27, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: STORM FORCE. Leave a comment

BraveWords Records is pleased to announce the new Storm Force album Truth, releasing on August 14th. The entire album is now available for a digital pre-order on Bandcamp. Storm Force has planned a Listening Party on August 12th on Bandcamp. Two days before the album release everyone around the world can join band members on Bandcamp to listen to the entire album.

“With Truth, we wanted to take everything we learned from Age of Fear and raise the bar in every area. We pushed ourselves harder as songwriters and musicians, and the result is an album that’s more powerful, more focused, and more dynamic than anything we’ve done before. The addition of drummer Roger Banks brought a new level of energy and intensity to the band, and everyone truly brought their A-game. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created and believe Truth represents the next evolution of Storm Force. Age of Fear introduced Storm Force; Truth defines who we are.”

Stream or Purchase the first single Truth: https://bravewordsrecords.bandcamp.com/album/truth

Digital pre-order for the album Truth: https://bravewordsrecords.bandcamp.com/album/truth
RSVP to the free Listening Party: https://bravewordsrecords.bandcamp.com/merch/storm-force-truth-listening-party

Storm Force delivers powerful melodic hard rock fueled by soaring vocals, massive hooks, and the timeless energy of classic arena rock. Founded by guitarist and songwriter Greg Fraser, best known for his work with Canadian hard rock veterans Brighton Rock, the band blends classic influences with a modern edge, creating a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly current.


The band first made its mark with the release of its debut album, Age Of Fear, in 2020 through Escape Music. The album earned praise from melodic rock fans and media alike, showcasing a powerful mix of driving guitars, memorable choruses, and emotionally charged songwriting.

Now Storm Force returns with its highly anticipated sophomore release, Truth, a ten-song collection that raises the bar in every direction.

Drawing inspiration from Whitesnake, Dokken, Scorpions, and Bon Jovi, Storm Force delivers music built for loud speakers, live stages, and fans who still believe in authentic, guitar-driven rock!

The debut Storm Force album, along with both Fraze Gang albums are now available for a budget friendly download of $5,99 each at bravewordsrecords.bandcamp.com

Track Listing:

  1. Truth
  2. Silver Lining
  3. Saviour
  4. Between The Lines
  5. Anti Social Media
  6. Fire Starter
  7. On With The Show
  8. You’re Never Alone
  9. I Wasn’t Finished Loving You
  10. Karma’s A Bitch

Band Members:

  • Patrick Gagliardi – Lead Vocals
  • Greg Fraser – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
  • Mike Berardelli – Bass Guitar
  • Roger Banks – Drums

Production:

  • Produced and Mixed by Darius Szczepaniak
  • Strada XR Atmos Studio, Mississauga, ON
  • Recorded at Storce Recording, Niagara Falls, ON

Additional Musicians:

  • All keyboards by Mike “Benny” Bedrosian, except on “Between The Lines,” performed by Ray Coburn.
  • Margaret Maria – Cello on “I Wasn’t Finished Loving You”

Songwriting:

  • All songs written by Patrick Gagliardi and Greg Fraser, except “Saviour,” written by Greg Fraser.

About STORM FORCE:

Storm Force is the explosive band that fans of classic hard melodic rock have all been waiting for.

Storm Force is led by Canadian rock legend and Brighton Rock founder, Greg Fraser. Greg has earned 4 Juno nominations with Brighton Rock, as well as a gold album in Canada. Greg is joined by Patrick Gagliardi (Vocals), Roger Banks (Drums), and Mike Berardelli (Bass), Storm Force’s debut album “Age of Fear” is the culmination of three years of passion for music and the hard rock genre.

After Brighton Rock, Greg released two great rock albums with the Fraze Gang to solid reviews. For this project however, he decided to step away from the front man role and search for the right members to create something special. Armed with the great rock riffs and melodies he had written, he decided to focus on finding members that were local to him so they could not just create an album that was recorded in different cities with no cohesiveness, but something that really felt like a band! Greg found one of today’s most powerful and versatile lead vocalists in Patrick Gagliardi (formerly of Surface Tension). Patrick adds his touch to the album as the main lyricist bringing different flavours to each song that range from straight ahead Rock anthems to introspective experiences of the current world we live in. Their debut record was recorded at Hamster Cage Studios and produced by Darius Szczepaniak (Black Crowes, Sum 41, Big Sugar). It combines colossal, crushing melodic rock with hook-laden ballads and massive choruses reminiscent of vintage Cinderella, balanced by classic rock sensibilities of acts like The Who and Van Halen.

The group hails from Niagara Falls, Canada and is rounded out by the blistering one-two punch rhythm section of legendary drummer Roger Banks and sought-after session musician and touring bassist Mike Berardelli.

https://stormforce.ca/
https://www.facebook.com/officialstormforce
https://x.com/stormforceband
https://youtube.com/@stormforce6368
https://www.instagram.com/stormforceband
https://www.tiktok.com/@stormforceband

Scream Rock Fest 2026 – Interview with Legenday Old-School Punk Rockers LE CAROGNE

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 27, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, Interviews, News. Tagged: LE CAROGNE, Scream Rock Fest 2026, Steve Foglia. Leave a comment

Interview & Stage Photos by Steve Foglia

Two-day Scream Rock Fest 2026 took Italy’s City of Flowers, Sanremo by Storm at the end of May, with pure energy dedicated to the best independent and historic bands from the Ligurian and national music scene.

The event’s organizer Steve Foglia conducted an interview with Ligurian Legendary old-school punk rockers LE CAROGNE (formed in 2008), join the chat below.

Since 2008, you’ve been spreading your sound from the far Western Ligurian coast. What is it like playing old-school punk rock in that part of Italy? Is there still a “scene” supporting you, or do you feel like odd-man-out?

A. Making music in the Western Ligurian area, and in general, is getting harder and harder. There’s a lack of venues that give space to original music projects. There isn’t a real scene as such; let’s just say there’s a handful of bands made of friends, and we support each other as much as we can.

In your bio, you define yourselves as “five shady figures.” Who are the Carogne really, and how do you tolerate each other and stay together after almost twenty years?

A. The figures are back to being four after a brief stint as a five-piece. We tolerate each other because we act as a rehab community for our own misery.

Your style is a lethal mix: garage, old-school punk, rotten rock ‘n’ roll, but also harsh synths and “lo-fi” electronics. How do such different elements blend together when you are in the rehearsal room composing?

A. It’s just something that happens. You just have to put stylistic prejudices aside.

Your lyrics are in “coarse Italian, between anger and irony.” How difficult is it today to use irony without being misunderstood, and what are the things that make you angriest and end up straight into your songs?

A. Oh, we get misunderstood all the time! It has often happened that our stuff was reviewed as “comedy rock.” That doesn’t happen with other languages; it’s just an idiocy born from Italian provincialism. Anyway, starting from our fourth album, we began alternating songs in Italian and English.

There is a beautiful definition in your press kit: “a loud, ignorant rhythm section.” Do we want to defend this musical “ignorance”? How much instinct and how much intention is there behind your racket?

A. Of course we defend it! There is no rule: there is room for both instinct and intention.

You have three albums and several compilations under your belt. If you had to choose just one song from your repertoire to introduce Carogne to someone who has never heard you, which one would it be and why?

A. We actually have four albums out already, plus we also released a 7-inch vinyl. Dunno… maybe “Carogne Blues”?

Since 2008, music has changed a lot, especially with the rise of streaming and social media. How does an old-school garage-punk band adapt to this ultra-digital world?

A. Initially, streaming and social media had a great impact on spreading music of any genre, thanks to the service being free. But everything got saturated very quickly. Now there is way too much stuff, everything is scattered, and a lot of interesting music doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

You have done live raids not only in Italy, but also in France, Switzerland, and Germany. How does the audience abroad react to lyrics sung strictly in Italian? Does punk really break down every language barrier?

A. People abroad have fewer prejudices than we do, and there is still a curiosity for the “live concert experience.” They actually listen to what you have to offer, even if they don’t understand a single fucking word!

Your live shows are described as actual “raids.” What is the most absurd, crazy, or “rotten” anecdote that has happened to you on stage or during a European tour?

A. Very weird things happen! A guy who asked our singer to give him his sweat-stained, rotten towel as a gift! A crust punk’s huge, furious dog that wanted to eat our drummer! Ending up drinking Pastis with the mayor of the town hosting the gig!

Three albums, many gigs, but the hunger for rock ‘n’ roll doesn’t seem to be gone. What are the future plans for Carogne? Should we expect a fourth album or new live raids anytime soon?

A. We have the material for a new album (which would actually be the fifth), but we still need to work on it. A new compilation we’re featured on will be released soon, produced by the DIY label TADCA Records. And then, we trust that this interview will interest some Finnish promoter who will book us a nice Scandinavian tour! Get in touch!

More info: https://lecarogne.bandcamp.com/

MAWIZA Release New Indigenous Anthem “MÜR” with Video

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 27, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: MAWIZA. Leave a comment
Photo by Kenia Catiollo (@bluemphasis)

After Metal Hammer hailed them as the most important new metal band of 2025, this year, Mawiza continue to pound the drum for indigenous metal.

The modern day Mapuche warriors started 2026 by shaking the foundation of Gojira frontman Joe Duplantier’s studio before sharing the stage with Avenged Sevenfold and Mr. Bungle. Now, as they prepare to journey across Europe’s major summer festival circuit, the indigenous metal band are debuting a new song for the first time since their groundbreaking, critically-acclaimed and Chilean Grammy-nominated album ÜL.

Today, Mawiza are releasing a lyric video for their new single “MÜR”. While unplugged, by joining forces with Mira Ceti (Heilung) and Anne Olsen (Danefae), the Mapuche metal band lead a new anthem for indigenous people everywhere.  

“In English, MÜR means ‘Together’”, Mawiza vocalist and guitarist Awka says. “This song connects with our ancestral values and reminds us the importance of working together across generations”.

“We wanted this song to not only represent the Mapuche people, but indigenous people all over the world who have lost a part of their culture to colonizers”, Mawiza bassist Zewü says.

Stream “MÜR” here: https://orcd.co/mawizamur

The video for “MÜR” was created by Jesus Carrillo.

Additional video credits
Images and footage by Andres Hetzler and Bluemphasis
Produced by Awka Nawel and Unai Garcia

Lineup
Awka – Lead vocals & rhythm guitar
Karü – Lead guitar & backing vocals
Zewü – Bass & backing vocals
Txalkan – Drums & percussion

Guest vocalists for “MÜR”
Fabi Hidalgo
Anne Olsen (Danefae)
Mira Ceti

Songwriting credits for “MÜR”
Music by Mawiza
Production credits
Produced by Awka Nawel and Unai Garcia
Mixed by Dario Llancaman
Mastered by Chalo Gonzalez

ÜL is available now on Season of Mist. Order & Stream: https://orcd.co/mawizaul

Amongst scene elders like Mercyful Fate, Slipknot, Mastodon and Gojira, Mawiza are known for infusing groove metal with the thunderous spirit of their Mapuche ancestors. But the band’s new single reveals that they sound just as heavy when unplugged from their ESP guitars. Like the streams that feed Chile’s Mapocho River, “MÜR” builds from one voice to a roaring, ceaseless chant.

“Kiñewküleliyiñ wewpayaiñ (If we unite as one / we will claim victory)”. As the kultrún (drum) dances to the beat passed down to the Mapuche by a sacred choike (ostrich), two pifilka (flute) join together to create a dissonant harmony that is piercing in its resolution. “Chew mapu rume tuwlu  / Chem rume txipantulelu (It does not matter where we come from / It does not matter how old we are)”.

“Today, the Mapuche are separated between colonized life in the city and the traditions of our ancestors”, Awka says. “As members of the younger generation, we must not only remember the strength and wisdom of our elders but walk together in the ways of our culture”.

Mawiza’s call for unity is supported by the very nature in which their new indigenous anthem came together. Written and recorded in 2025 around the release of ÜL, “MÜR” now arrives as the band’s first song to feature a female vocalist. Joining Mira Ceti and Anne Olsen is Fabi Hidalgo, Awka’s partner. Each guest is blessed with their own unique singing style, but by repeating the same verse, they exemplify the song’s message.

“It’s beautiful”, Awka says about collaborating on “MÜR”. “When I wrote this song, I needed someone who could sing certain high notes, so I asked Fabi. She is always present whenever I am writing songs for Mawiza”.

“Mira and Anne understood where we are coming from with this song”, Zewü says. “Mira sings in Occitan, while Anne sings in Danish. Having them both sing in their confidence language speaks to the message of ‘MÜR’”.

“When I received the invitation to collaborate with Mawiza, I felt it would be like a bridge spanning continents”, Mira Ceti says. “As an Indigenous woman from France, living on the territory of my ancestors and striving to keep alive my connection to the land, I draw great strength and inspiration from other Indigenous cultures.

“‘MÜR’ is a song about people coming  together”, Ceti continues. “Joining in with so many beautiful voices from across the world is a great honor. I chose to sing in Occitan, a language from the southern half of France, as a way to remind us of the importance of keeping a diversity of culture alive”.

“I haven’t don’t much featured work before, so I was very happy and a bit intimidated when Awka and the rest of Mawiza reached out to me about collaborating on ‘MÜR’”, says Anne Olsen.

“Heritage is a strange thing”, Olsen continues. “We can try to deny that it sets us apart, but we all have different cultures, stories and traditions. To me, ‘MÜR’ is about how these differences shouldn’t divide us; rather, they should remind us that we all come from somewhere. Naturally, if we understand each other’s heritage, we are one step closer to understanding each other. It was a wonderful song to work on, and the vocals in Mapudungun are so powerful. It was truly inspiring. Now, I just wait and hope to see if performed live some day”.

Tracklist
1. Wingkawnoam (3:38) [WATCH]
2. Pinhza Ñi pewma  (4:29)
3. Ngulutu (3:50) [WATCH]
4. Nawelkünuwnge  (5:06)
5. Mamüll Reke  (4:24) [WATCH]
6. Wenu Weychan (6:13)
7. Lhan Antü (4:08)
8. Kalli Lhayay (3:58)
9. Ti Inan Paw-Pawkan (featuring Joe Duplantier from Gojira) (4:42) [WATCH]

Catch Mawiza this summer at select European shows.

Mawiza 2026 European Dates

August 6 – Helsinki, Finland @ WTF – Capital of Metal [TICKETS]
August 7 – Helsinki, Finland @ Hellsinki Metal Festival [TICKETS]
August 12 – Borre, Norway @ Midgardsblot [Acoustic Set] [TICKETS]
August 13 – Borre, Norway @ Midgardsblot [Electric Set] [TICKETS]
August 15 – København, Denmark @ Stengade [TICKETS]

ÜL means “chant” in Mapuzugun. The album represents the voice of the land, the origin of feeling, the first call to connect with emotions. It is the materialization of a part of the spirit that, for a few seconds, becomes one with the wind—a force we can hear, resonate, communicate with, and return to. ÜL is Mawiza’s indigenous chant, and like smoke, it rises as a message to the skies.

Like their Mapuche ancestors, Mawiza always look back. ÜL chants to awaken the energies that have fallen asleep in the land, using the power of the great cities to resist the noise of imbalance. In this way, the album becomes another element of nature, a force defending itself, speaking in its own language to keep fighting and condemning those who continue to futilely subjugate their own strength.

With ÜL, Mawiza present themself to the world with a decolonizing and empowering mission. The album proclaims that nature possesses consciousness and spirit. Opening song “Wingkawnoam” emphasizes the importance of indigenous Mapuche thought by following dreams as precise guides for one’s path in life.

“Pinhza ñi pewma” is a dream that Mawiza’s vocalist Awka had during a time when hummingbirds were nowhere to be seen. Their chant was absent and the chilco plant was disappearing. In Awka’s dream, four hummingbirds came to feed on the blood from his fingertips, as if it were nectar flowing from the flowers of the chilco.

ÜL pays tribute to nature and Mawiza’s ancestors. “Ngulutu” recalls ancient battles between the Mapuche and the Spanish in Santiago, Chile. “Mamüll Reke”, “Wenu Weychan”, “Lhan Antü”, and “Kalli Lhayay” are filled with rhythms and sounds reminiscent of the most hermetic rituals of the Mapuche people. They were used by shamans to induce trance and heal the sick, to communicate with and greet the spirits of the mountains.

Closing song “Ti Inan Paw-pawkan” features chants from members of Mawiza’s indigenous community, as well as Gojira frontman Joe Duplantier. It is here, during the album’s finale, that the band stake their claim as both indigenous and urban. The song acknowledges the mission entrusted to Mawiza by Mapuche authorities and by the land itself: to raise awareness about balance on Earth in an empowered way and to call for greater attentiveness to Mapuche territory. Otherwise, the consequences will be dire.

Follow Mawiza
Bandcamp: https://mawizakvlt.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mawizakvlt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mawizakvlt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mawizakvlt
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oJP24bXA2fbdVmNGNmCtt
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mawizakvlt
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mawiza/165343595

This Pride Month LEÆTHER STRIP Tell You How to Sin

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 27, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: Claus Larsen, Leæther Strip. Leave a comment

It’s twelve years since Danish industrial legend Claus Larsen, aka Leæther Strip, introduced his AEppreciation series of albums, each one a wild cornucopia of dynamic covers, reimagined and, in the process, wholly reinvigorated in a style that only Claus has truly mastered.

Soft Cell, Daniel Miller, Dead or Alive and David Bowie were among the artists whose music informed that first volume; since then, Claus has revisited favorite songs by Marianne Faithfull Kim Wilde, Adam and the Ants, Nena and Kraftwerk (the latter pair across a volume dedicated to German rock), Billy Idol, Propaganda, Duran Duran and so many more, alongside stand-alone tributes to The Cure and Halloween.

Now comes Appreciation IX, releasing on July 24 but previewed today with “Sin,” Leæther Strip’s interpretation of a cut from ex-Throbbing Gristle mainstays Chris & Cosey, originally heard on their 1991 album Pagan Tango.  It’s a dark, sensual piece of music, certainly one of their strongest later recordings, and Claus treats it with all the respect it deservers, at the same time as unmistakably placing his own imprimatur on the performance.

SINGLE: https://orcd.co/leatherstrip_sin

Appreciation IX itself is another themed edition, with Claus explaining, “With this edition of my Æppreciation series, I wanted to pay tribute to some of my favorite LGBTQ+  and LGBTQ+ friendly artists and songs. They have all been a huge inspiration for me and shown me that there was a place for me to express myself with my own songs.”

Tracks originally recorded by Man 2 Man (“Male Stripper”), Peaches (“I U She”), Throbbing Gristle​(“Discipline”), Coil (“Heaven’s Blade”) and Boytronic (“Trigger Track”) illustrate the sheer depth of this collection, as Claus is swift to point out.

“The whole industrial/electronic genre has from the very beginning been represented by the Queer community in a big way, so I feel it time to wave the flag for these amazing artists.”

That his selection here delves deeper into period club culture than any of the preceding volumes only adds weight to its assertion – particularly in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the era most heavily represented on the album, the burgeoning industrial scene was one of the truly “safe spaces” around.

Clubs like The Church in Dallas, TX (subject of the Cleopatra DVD/bluray Dark Sanctuary: The Story Of The Church), the Vogue in Seattle, WA and so many more – remain legends for precisely that reason and, placing Appreciation IX on either the turntable or the CD deck is like walking into any of those clubs, and knowing there was nothing to fear.

Even the drinks were often reasonably priced!

CD/VINYL: https://cleorecs.com/products/leaether-strip-aeppreciation-
DIGITAL: https://orcd.co/leatherstrip_appreciationix

Track listing

  1. Sin
  2. Dark Allies
  3. Male Stripper
  4. Sulk
  5. Run From Love
  6. I U She
  7. Discipline
  8. Heaven’s Blade
  9. Trigger Track
  10. Joy

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