OCEANS OF SLUMBER Break Boundaries on New Single + Video ‘Where Gods Fear to Speak’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 15, 2024
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Oceans of Slumber defy any and all convention. For the past 15 years, the Houston band have come to redefine what it means to be Southern Gothic by mixing melodic death, doom and black metal with subtle electronic flourishes and the overpowering heat of their hometown. Now, after signing with Season of Mist, they’re extending their progressive streak even further by envisioning a dark and cinematic new subgenre that’s theirs and theirs alone.

Ahead of their upcoming tour with Lacuna Coil and New Years Day, today, Oceans of Slumber are releasing the first single off their upcoming fifth album.

Stream: https://orcd.co/oceansofslumberwheregodsfeartospeak

It’s damn near impossible to constrict Oceans of Slumber to one genre. “Where Gods Fear to Speak” opens with more of the sultry doom metal  headbanging that long-time fans have come to expect, but the band’s new single breaks entirely new ground. Punishing blast beats and a blackened torrent of melodic tremolo picking collide with Cammie Beverly’s powerhouse cleans, a skyrocketing guitar solo and synths that swirl like the aura of a mystical planet. So what do we call this otherworldly occurrence?

“Dark cinematic metal”, says drummer Dobber Beverly. In addition to drumming for grindcore legends Insect Warfare and American black metal trailblazers Necrofier, Dobber is a classically trained pianist who composed Oceans of Slumber’s new album. “We’ve taken the raw and heavier direction of our last two albums and elevated it to the scale of a blockbuster IMAX movie”.

The album’s concept blurs the ideological lines between Dune,Blade Runner and The Dark Tower, though its first single loops back to real life events. All five members of Oceans of Slumber are from Texas, where organized religion can be as suffocating as the dust or heat. Growing up, Cammie was caught in an especially hard bind. Her childhood home was divided over her father’s dedication to the Institute of Divine Metaphysical Research and her mother becoming a Jehova’s Witness. “Regardless of which one you believe, organized religion makes us suffer in order to please this heavenly deity”, Cammie says. “But the payoff is only an illusion”.

That tension – between the promise of divine pleasure and the pains of the flesh – raises “Where Gods Fear to Speak” to truly Biblical proportions. The chant that creeps in past the four minute mark could pass for the curse of an evil sorcerer. Your grace is sufficient / Made perfect in my weakness. But those lyrics are a direct quote from the Book of 2 Corinthians.

The video for “Where Gods Fear to Speak” ties in nicely with these themes. Taken captive by some unholy masked trinity, Cammie is strung up by ropes fashioned in the style of Shibari, an ancient Japanese torture method that’s evolved into a form of BDSM. Of course, nothing is strong enough to hold down Cammie’s voice. Her belt covers such a wide range, steeped in the blues as much the gospel, that it really could move mountains. Only now, she’s flexing a guttural new muscle.

“I’ve always wanted to do death growls”, Cammie says. “‘Where Gods Fear to Speak’ presented the perfect opportunity. Mixing harsh vocals in with my cleans speaks to that tug of war between pleasure and pain, though there’s a freedom that comes with pushing my voice past its perceived breaking point”.    
On “Where Gods Fear to Speak”, Oceans of Slumber ascend to unimagined heights. 

The video for “Where Gods Fear to Speak” was directed by Josh Vargas.

Additional video credits
Shibari – Jesse Salazar aka Darkness_Hyde
Makeup – Heather Alcala
Hair – Locks Kinks & Twist LLC

Models: Elizabeth Karen, Victoria Argeroplos, Kalina Dalal

Now that their new album is well on its way, Oceans of Slumber are hitting the road next month. The band are bringing their smoldering live show from Wilmington, Delaware to Columbus, Ohio alongside Lacuna Coil and New Years Day.

“Touring with Lacuna Coil is like a dream for us in Oceans of Slumber”, says Cammie. “Sharing the stage with such legendary women in metal is an incredible honor, and we’re excited for the amazing experiences and memorable shows ahead. We can’t wait to see you all there!”

Ignite the Fire Tour May 2024
May 2 – Wilmington, DE @ The Queen [TICKETS]
May 3 – Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony [TICKETS]
May 4 – Reading, PA @ Reverb [TICKETS]
May 6 – Norfolk, VA @ The NorVa [TICKETS]
May 7 – Charlotte, NC @ The Underground [TICKETS]
May 9 – Daytona Beach, FL @ Rockville Festival [TICKETS]*
May 11 – Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl [TICKETS]
May 13 – Ft. Smith, AR @ Temple Live [TICKETS]
May 14 – Wichita, KS @ Temple Live [TICKETS]
May 15 – St. Louis, MO @ Delmar Hall [TICKETS]
May 17 – Columbus, OH @ Sonic Temple Festival [TICKETS]**
May 19 – Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest [TICKETS]*

*Only Lacuna Coil
**No Oceans of Slumber

Oceans of Slumber is a progressive metal band from Houston, Texas. Throughout the years, the band has released several studio albums that showcase their musical growth and introspective lyrics. Their discography delves into themes of mental health, human emotions, and existential struggles.

The band’s intense live performances leave audiences in awe of their musical prowess and passionate stage presence. Their dedication to craft and willingness to experiment solidifies them as a formidable force in the metal scene. Continuously pushing boundaries and inspiring fans worldwide, Oceans of Slumber carve a unique path in the world of progressive metal, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Lineup
Cammie Beverly – vocals
Dobber Beverly- drums, piano
Semir Ozerkan – bass
Alex Davis – guitar
Chris Kritikos – guitar, synth

Recording
Audiovision Studios in Bogotá, Columbia
Assistant engineering at Audiovision by Deyra Castillo and David Dueñas Piña

Production
Produced and engineered by Joel Hamilton
Mixed by Joel Hamilton at Studio G in Brooklyn, New York
Additional engineering by Chris Kritikos
Assistant engineering by Justin Termotto

https://oceansofslumber.com/
https://www.facebook.com/oceansofslumber/
https://www.instagram.com/oceansofslumber/?hl=en
https://www.youtube.com/user/oceansofslumber
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2JSza6IRxLr1Ez3wqKd0SY

SKUMLOVE to Release New EP “Feeding The Ego” on April 30th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 15, 2024
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SKUMLOVE‘s new EP “Feeding The Ego” is soon to be released with the success of their single “EGO”, which was produced by Alex Crescioni and Mastered by Maor Appelbaum.  The band decided to connect with some old friends and some new ones to put together a remix EP called “Feeding The Ego.” which will hit your digital streaming services and iTunes on April 31st. 

The first Single was a collaboration with one of our favorites, Combichrist.  Andy LaPlegua really added their staple to this song.  We got Jay Gordon of Orgy collaborating with the new artist K9 To bring us a very current EBM mix that will for sure make the rounds with DJs.  Roman Marisak from Professional Murder Music came back in to do an amazing remix with a trip hop twist. It was good to hook up with him again as he produced our first two albums. 

Kevin Kipnis of Purr Machine returned with an awesome mix as usual. He has done previous remixes for us, and we are talking about doing some music together in the near future. 

Dark Wave Industrial maniacs, Frontal Boundary took the song and really made it their own giving it a new life. 

Our good friend and veteran Producer, Sean Dever of The Forge Recording Brought a slow, dark, industrial, dirge that will easily become a favorite to the genre. 

We also decided to let our fans know where the original version of ego came from by releasing the original demo from 2000 As a bonus on this EP. This dark and gritty mono version is like a time machine to Skumlove’s History… their Legacy. This is a digital release that will be available anywhere you stream your favorite digital music. that will also be available To pre-order on Itunes April 15th with the release to take place on April 30TH.

Order the EP at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/skumlove/feeding-the-ego-ep/

SKUMLOVE:
Skum Love – Lead Vocals
Robyn Sin – Guitars
M. Loebig – Bass
James “Jas” Dillon – Drums

For more information visit: www.skumlove.com – Instragram – Facebook

SONJA Sign to Century Media Records, Release Single + Video ‘Discretion For The Generous’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 15, 2024
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Photo courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/Sonjabooking

Century Media Records welcomes Philadelphia heavy metal band, Sonja, to its roster.

Conceptualized in 2014, Sonja are capturing the true spirit of metal and rock n’ roll with a dark and sensual approach. Following their 2022 debut album Loud Arriver, Sonja now expose their new single, Discretion for the Generous. The powerful track intermingles gothic rock style with a habitually infectious chorus that incites a fiery metal whirlwind.

Vocalist and guitarist Melissa Moore commands melody and lyrics, derived from perception and transaction. The music video matches the track’s intensity, displaying not only a striking performance from the band but a parallel tale of art and objectification. Sonja delve through the hands of lust and temptation while setting forth their own path, something that has become dominant though the elevation of the band.

Stream the new single here: https://Sonja.lnk.to/DiscretionForTheGenerousNe

On the single and signing Moore bares:

“It’s a potent experience to write, record, film a video at my home, and immediately release a song that is literally encompassing my life right now. Sonja is our Goddess and she despises compromise. We exist for her extreme desire and as such we are full-on at all times. To create the art worthy of her name we rip through our realities into the new planes of existence she demands. We are grateful for those who join us on this path of serving her.

Escaping to Portugal to write the lyrics, I attempted to articulate some of the insanity back in Philly. When I returned home, we turned the volume UP. Century Media became our new sugar daddy. We stare into each other’s souls with an unhinged need to push each other over the edge. It’s pointless to even try to predict what kind of fucked up situations we are all going to end up in. Some knowledge can only be found in the dark.”

Mike Gitter, VP of A&R at Century Media Records adds on welcoming Sonja:

“When we first heard Sonja’s Loud Arriver, it was as full of heaviness, angst, sexuality and heart as a rock record could be. Like the band itself, it both challenged and waved a bloody sword for the classic and the contemporary. ‘Discretion For the Generous,’ in true Sonja fashion, occupies the space where Manowar, Danzig and Mercyful Fate conjure and conquer at the best late night party you can imagine. Century Media is proud to be Sonja’s new label home.”

Dutch Psychedelic Rockers IRON JINN Announce German Shows in May

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 15, 2024
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(Photographer – Louise te Poele)

Following the resounding success of their electrifying performance at their album release party last weekend, Dutch experimental psychedelic rock band Iron Jinn is set to mesmerize audiences across Germany with three exhilarating live shows in May. Fresh off the heels of their full-length album release Live At Roadburn, capturing the essence of their unforgettable festival show, the band is ready to transport fans into the depths of their sonic universe.
 
The album which is out now through Lay Bare Recordings on heavy duty double black vinyl, has been met with widespread acclaim, earning praise for its raw energy, mesmerizing improvisations, and mind-bending soundscapes. Now, fans in Germany will have the opportunity to experience the magic firsthand as Iron Jinn embarks on their highly anticipated tour.

The three shows will showcase the band’s signature blend of experimentalism, psychedelia, and raw rock energy. From hypnotic grooves to transcendent guitar solos, Iron Jinn promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all stripes.

Tour Dates
17 May Immerhin, Würzburg
18 May Gockelscream, Dresden – Buy Tickets Here
19 May Reset Club, Berlin w/ Children – Buy Tickets Here

Order The Album On Vinyl Here

About Iron Jinn
Iron is a Dutch experimental psychedelic rock band renowned for their boundary-pushing sound and electrifying live performances. Consisting of seasoned musicians Oeds Beydals (The Devil’s Blood, Death Alley), Wout Kemkens (Shaking Godspeed, De Niemanders), Bob Hogenelst (Birth of Joy),Gerben Bielderman (Pauw) and Jarno Van Es, the band has a penchant for improvisation and a fearless approach to music-making, the band continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of psychedelic textures, intricate rhythms, and raw rock energy.

Singer COREY GLOVER Talks SONIC UNIVERSE, New Living Colour Album & Documentary

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 15, 2024
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Jimmy Kay from The Metal Voice recently interview Living Colour’s singer Corey Glover about his new band Sonic Universe featuring guitarist Mike Orlando (Adrenaline Mob) bassist Booker King and drummer Taykwuan Jackson. Their new album entitled ‘It is what it is’ which will be released on May 10 via earMUSIC.

pre-order “It Is What It Is” HERE.

Glover also spoke about some of Living Colour history.

When asked about Sonic Universe guitarist Mike Orlando
“Mike is one of the best guitar players I’ve ever heard in my life hands down. I say that with some Authority because I’ve worked with some of the best guitar players there are to know. But I have to say that Mike Orlando is one of the best that I’ve ever heard in my life. He’s the best at what he does in my opinion.”

When asked what is the difference between  Living Colour and Sonic Universe
“I think just in terms of themes, it’s not as socially bent as it is emotionally bent. There’s an emotional thing about this particular record.”

When asked about the musical direction of the new album
“It’s sort of a combination of Mike’s (Orlando) sort of thing he’s done with Adrenaline Mob and the stuff he’s done with his own solo work and some of my work. Whatever I bring to the table from in my discography. So it’s a bit of a combination of both of those things.”

 When asked if SONIC UNIVERSE is going to tour
“We’re gonna go on the road as soon as we possibly can. I got lots more work to do with Living Colour and we’re making a new record so when I am free, which will probably be in the fall, we’ll go out and see what’s out there for us to do.”

When asked when Living Colour is going to release a new studio album
“Probably 2025. We’re not even close to done, we’re still  in the phase of what this is going to be. So it’s going to take a minute  before we get it to where we wanted.” 

When asked about the Living colour song  ‘Open Letter to a Landlord if it is more relevant in today’s world than what it was back in the 80’s
“Absolutely,  it’s much more relevant now than it was then. It was  more about Gentrification than anything else. And to know that idea still pervades and is and has been weaponized  in certain cases. It’s still a part of this whole thing.”

When asked about the issues in the past between In Living Colour television show and the bands name
“Yeah well basically  before the show had even been greenlit to go on network television  the Producers had called us and asked us if we wanted to be a part of it and we politely declined. And we thought because we declined the use of the name that they would change that and they didn’t and fortunately or unfortunately depending on how you look at it the show became a big success. Its success sort of made  some sort of confusion in the marketplace and  when you say Living Color they think oh you took up from the TV shows like no we were around before the TV show, this is not about the TV show. These aren’t jokes and we had something to say and we wanted to be taken seriously with what we had to say. We  negotiated and made some sort of concessions and they made some concessions and you know the TV show is a classic and I think Living Color is a classic so let’s call it a day.”

When asked if Living Colour will be doing a documentary
“We’re planning on doing a documentary, we’re just trying to figure out where we’re going to do it and how we’re going to do it and what we’re going to talk about. “

Track-listing

  1. I Am
  2. It Is What It Is
  3. Turn A Blind Eye
  4. My Desire
  5. Whisper To A Scream 6. Higher
  6. Life
  7. Come What May
  8. I Want It All
  9. Beautiful Disunity

TARJA Releases Reissue of “What Lies Beneath (Special Edition 2024)”, Out Now

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 15, 2024
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‘What Lies Beneath’ is the second rock studio album by Finnish solo artist Tarja. Originally released in 2010, the bestseller is a true fan favorite and one of her most successful releases to date. Considered a classic and must-have for both fans and critics, it includes timeless Tarja hits like ‘Until My Last Breath’, ‘I Feel Immortal’ and ‘Falling Awake’.

This year, the album will be re-issued for the first time as 2CD Special Edition and, for the first time, as Heavyweight 2LP Vinyl (Gatefold, 180g, black). Both formats feature a beautifully restored artwork, and all tracks are remastered at Sterling Sound for superb sound quality for the ultimate 2024 ‘What Lies Beneath’-experience.

Access  ‘What Lies Beneath (Special Edition 2024)’ HERE

The 2CD Special Edition includes the 14 original album tracks and a special bonus CD including alternative versions, single edits, and remixes – for the first time all combined on this Bonus CD. It also includes ‘The Good Die Young’ performed by the Scorpions & Tarja, originally included as bonus track on 2010s Limited Dreamers Boxset.

Very few copies of the 2010 Limited Dreamers Box Set are still available via Tarja’s official web shop HERE

Today, Tarja also releases the special single edit of ‘Dark Star’. The digital single bundle also includes Tarja’s lead vocals version of ‘Dark Star’ and the song ‘Underneath’ featuring Jyrki Linnankivi (The 69 Eyes).