Female Fronted Indie-Rock Power sensations OUR NOISE are proud to unleash their single and video for “Blackmail”. “Blackmail” is a track taken from the band’s self-titled album Our Noise, out via Epictronic worldwide.
“Blackmail” is a powerful song about shattering illusions and rising from the ashes of betrayal. With Di Santo’s soaring vocals and the band’s infectious blend of post-hardcore, grunge, and 90s alt-rock, it’s a journey from innocence to understanding, a celebration of claiming your strength. When you listen to “Blackmail” think Beck meets PJ Harvey with a dash of bombastic rock n’ roll!
“Blackmail” single is available on all digital platforms here.
“Our Noise” album showcases their amazing creative chemistry. It started with an impromptu jam session in NYC’s Funkadelic Studios, and Cornelius and Fall continued to meet up, driven by their love for innovative rock and punk. They found inspiration during walks around NYC and turned these ideas into late-night guitar sessions at Cornelius’ apartment. They sent these recordings to Di Santo in Toronto, who added bass and vocals based on their shared experiences. It was recorded in Florida and Toronto.
Their electrifying sound blends post-hardcore/punk, heavy rock/grunge, old-school funk bass grooves, and 90s college-rock. Compared to artists like Queens of the Stone Age, Nirvana, PJ Harvey, and Tool, the band’s chemistry is undeniable.
When “Wheels Within Wheels”, the third full-length album from MEER hits the streets on the 23rd August, fans of the band will be able to hear a piece of work that represents a significant evolution for the Norwegian progressive pop outfit, with eleven tracks that reach soaring heights, interspersed with moments of quiet reflection.
But, since its release is still over a month away, Karisma Records have released a second single from the album to assuage everyone’s curiosity. The track chosen is “Chains of Changes”, a song filled with evocative lyrics and mesmerizing melodies that delves deep into the complexities of the human experience and offers a poignant reflection on the transformative power of perception.
With its hauntingly beautiful melodies, ethereal instrumentation and thought provoking lyrics, “Chains of Changes” urges listeners to embrace their vulnerability and confront the inevitability of change. Something that is sure to resonate with audiences seeking solace in the midst of uncertainty.
Above all, “Chains of Changes” offers a tantalizing glimpse into the sonic tapestry that MEER has meticulously crafted. It is a testament to the band’s ability to seamlessly blend introspective lyricism with captivating musical arrangements, creating an immersive listening experience that transcends genre boundaries.
Recorded at Ocean Sound Recordings in 2023 “Wheels Within Wheels” saw MEER reunited with producer Lars Gärtner Fremmerlid. With artwork by Helena Haglund and Simen Sandbæk Skari, track listing on “Wheels Within Wheels” is as follows:
01. Chains of Changes 02. Behave 03. Take Me to the River 04. Come to Light 05. Golden Circle 06. Today Tonight Tomorrow 07. World of Wonder 09. Mother 10. Something in the Water 11. This is the End
The album itself comes in at a running time of just over an hour, and is undoubtedly MEER’s most ambitious, dynamic and immersive work to date. It will be released in CD, Digital, and Ltd Edition Double LP in Neon Magenta / Grimace Purple Vinyl formats, and is now available to pre-order from:
Formed in Hamar, Norway, in 2008, by the charismatic sibling duo of Johanne and Knut Kippersund, MEER’s lineup has grown to eight members, including Johanne Kippersund on vocals, Knut Kippersund on vocals, Eivind Strømstad on guitar, Åsa Ree on violin, Ingvild Nordstoga Eide on viola, Ole Gjøstøl on keyboards, Morten Strypet on bass and Mats Lillehaug on drum.
With each individual band member contributing their own musical styles and interests in such a way as to complement and influence each other, MEER has succeeded in creating a sound that has become fascinatingly eclectic. And it is for this reason that “Wheels Within Wheels” promises to be a masterclass in the blending of symphonic prog and intelligent pop, filled with exceptional musicianship, intricate vocal harmonies, and grandiose melodies.
MEER is scheduled to appear live at the following (more to follow):
“Golden Circle”, the first single to be released from “Wheels Within Wheels” is available at https://orcd.co/goldencircle and is accompanied by a video by Birk Rønningsbakken Groven, moodily lit by Kåre Nordseth, which can be seen at: https://youtu.be/K9pQ1bz2c20
South African punk bands Half Price and Mean Girls are happy to announce the release of their split EP titled Split Personalities. This unique release will be available on CD, Cassette Tape, and all major streaming platforms, coinciding with their highly anticipated European Great Punk Migration tour from 26 July to 9 August 2024. The tour will culminate in a performance at the world-renowned Punk Rock Holiday festival in Slovenia.
Split Personalities is a split release that features three tracks from each band, showcasing their distinct sounds and shared passion for punk rock. Inspired by the tradition of split albums in the punk scene, this EP symbolizes both bands’ diverse musical influences and social commentary. The title reflects the multidimensional nature of the album, representing the collaboration between the two bands and the evolving sounds within each band’s repertoire.
Half Price’s side of the EP includes their new single, “The Forgotten Future,” which addresses the critical state of the South African education system and the nation’s lack of vision for its improvement. This track marks a return to their politically charged roots after 18 years. The inspiration comes from the disillusionment with South Africa’s progress, particularly the failing education system that perpetuates structural inequalities inherited from apartheid. The song highlights the personal tragedies and societal setbacks caused by the broken system, emphasizing the urgent need for meaningful reforms to prevent further inequality. The track was developed organically, starting with a groovy bassline that led to the addition of ska guitar, horn lines and a rousing drum beat. The band focused on creating a catchy and energetic chorus, enhanced with gang vocals to capture the song’s emotional weight. Additionally, they have reimagined two older songs with their new brass section, featuring Matt Willis on trombone. “Southbound” and a fan-favorite, “Friends and Family,” now includes guest vocals from Archi Alert (Terrorgruppe) and Alex Muller (We Kill Cowboys), along with the Hog Hoggidy Hog brass section.
Mean Girls contribute three brand new tracks—”Reverse Crusade,” “Not Yours,” and “Drained”—which blend skate punk and hardcore elements. These songs tackle social and political issues as well as personal experiences. Recorded and mixed DIY by their bassist Danny Helsing, Mean Girls continue to push boundaries and deliver their unique sound with energy and conviction. Lyrics will be available on their Bandcamp page on the release date.
Tour Dates: 26 July – Fürth: Kopf und Kragen (DE) * 27 July – Minden: Papagei (DE) * 28 July – Coesfeld: Die Pampa (DE) * 29 July – Hannover: Nordstadtbraut (DE) 30 July – (TBC) 31 July – (TBC) 1 Aug – Hof: Punkrock Partykeller (DE) 2 Aug – Ulm: Beteigeuze (DE) 3 Aug – Augsburg: Krätzwerk (DE) 5-9 Aug – Punk Rock Holiday Festival (SI) With Great Unwashed (Velbert)
About Half Price Half Price is a satirical ska punk band hailing from Cape Town, South Africa. Since its inception in 2001, the band has released six studio albums as well as a “best of” album in the USA through New York-based punk rock label Punk Outlaw Records. Over the course of its 23-year history, Half Price has toured across South Africa and Namibia countless times.The band has also survived four European tours and has played alongside numerous international acts including Mad Caddies, The Exploited, Alien Ant Farm, Leftöver Crack and 90’s Euro Pop sensation Culture Beat. Half Price has always been enthusiastic about working with other musicians and many of their releases feature artists from fellow South African punk bands like Fuzigish and Hog Hoggidy Hog, as well as German punk rock legends Terrorgruppe. In 2016, Half Price became the first South African punk band to be signed to a US based label, Punk Outlaw Records.
Line-Up: Sober Pete: vocals & guitar Emo Mawk: guitar & vocals The DFG: bass & vocals Kyle “the machine”: drums Matt Willis: trombone & vocals
About Mean Girls Mean Girls are an up-and-coming skate punk/melodic hardcore band from Johannesburg, South Africa, and after releasing a fun and engaging single called “Just a Dream” in June 2023, they digitally released their first EP “You Can Sit With Us” on December 4th of the same year.
The music is very diverse, ranging from fast hardcore to post-punk influenced darker parts and mostly classic upbeat skate punk catchy tunes. It is truly remarkable how the band manages to combine all of these influences into a compact and cohesive sound, and it is rare to see such a different and exciting approach to writing poppier punk music.
Such distinctive and original bands are hard to find in the oversaturated scene of skate punk music, and with their debut Mean Girls prove that you can still make original music in a genre that is considered too formulaic and played out – if you have the right attitude and combine your influences as eloquently as they do.
Line-Up: Gavin Pincus: guitar & vocals Greg Watson: drums Carrie Anne Richardson: guitar & vocals Danny Helsing: vocals & bass Tim Harbour: vocals
In just under two weeks, Berlin thrashers DEIMOS’ DAWN will enter the holy grounds of WACKEN OPEN AIR as part of Wasted Wednesday and will release a brand new track, “Lambs To The Slaughter”, in good time beforehand, which the quartet will surely be blasting around your ears at WOA.
A lyric video for the song, which you can also find as a single on all download and streaming platforms, is now available on the MDD YouTube channel. The upcoming and already confirmed live dates of the band, with scene icon Marc Grewe swinging the mic, can be found below. Take the opportunity, it’s worth it!
Livedates 31.07. Wacken Open Air, Wasteland Wednesday 26.10. Hannover, Subkultur, Final Cry Anniversary Fest 09.11. Lohr, Stadthalle, Chaos Unity Festival 21.12. Berlin, Badehaus, Thunder And Lighning Anniversary Show
Lower Hollow is back, fiercer and more determined than ever. After the departure of three founding members following their debut album Bloom & Expire, the band has emerged from adversity with a renewed strength and unyielding resolve. Their latest offering, Threnody: Songs of Fortitude,out today via Mongrel Records, is a testament to resilience and an exploration of the darkest corners of human experience.
Threnody: Songs of Fortitude is more than just an album; it is a visceral journey through the depths of human emotion, a cathartic experience that leaves an indelible mark on the listener. Lower Hollow invites fans to embrace the darkness, confront their demons, and emerge stronger on the other side. Prepare to be moved, shattered, and ultimately, transformed.
The band draws from intense emotions such as hurt, pain, loss, and anger, coupled with an urgent need for self-discovery. “It’s by no means an easy place to be, but a lot of good artistic value can come from being in a dark place,” they explain. By channeling these emotions into their music, they create a powerful and honest portrayal of the human experience.
They describe the album as a narrative about surviving trauma and loss, processing heavy emotions, and emerging stronger. They hope the album resonates with listeners who have faced their own challenges, offering a sense of solidarity and hope.
Lower Hollow underwent a meticulous writing process with their new lineup, locking themselves away to demo ideas and deconstructing elements that didn’t fit their vision. “We demoed all our ideas and basically deconstructed aspects that didn’t fit the vision until we had all moving parts functional and in play,” the band explains. This rigorous process allowed them to hone their sound and ensure every element of the album was perfectly aligned with their artistic vision.
The recording for the album began in February at their home studio. Lower Hollow adopted a hybrid approach, combining traditional drum tracking and guitar cab recording with DI tracking for post-processing. “We find value in traditional recording methods to give a more classic feel, but also as a point of recognizing the real sense of what our band sounds like live,” the band elaborates. This blend of techniques resulted in an album that captures the raw energy of Lower Hollow’s live performances while maintaining a polished and authentic sound.
Lower Hollow’s “Threnody: Songs of Fortitude” will be followed by a nationwide tour, promising an explosive live experience for fans across South Africa.
Tour Dates Friday 2nd August | Bailey’s – Bedfordview Saturday 3rd August | Railways Cafe – Pretoria Friday 9th August | Robson’s Brewery – Durban Saturday 10th August | The Vern – Howick Saturday 17th August | Old Schute – Bloemfontein Friday 23rd August | The Armchair Theatre – Cape Town Saturday 24th August | Ellington’s – Belville
Finnish metal band Rifftera is set to release their new EP Coda on October 11th 2024 via Inverse Records. The first single ‘No Turning Back’ is out today with visualizer video. This is the first release since their critically acclaimed second studio album Across the Acheron released back in 2019 also by Inverse Records.
The band comments single: “No Turning Back is a bit slower song in our scale, but that just adds into the heaviness. The song starts with keyboards intro that reminds me of Ginga: Nagareboshi Gin anime & 80’s sci-fi. Then follows for example multiple killer riffs, a really catchy chorus and three solos. Because what kind of a song wouldn’t have three solos? Dark atmosphere, crushing riffs and some honey on top; that’s what No Turning Back is made from.”
Track list:
Carved in Skin
Quicksand
No Turning Back
Moonchild (Iron Maiden Cover)
EP cover by Leon / fiverr.com/leon86 – Cover art
Rifftera was formed in 2010 in Vaasa, Finland by Janne Hietala. The band was basically started as a studio project; to be a channel for releasing riffs and song ideas that kept on coming. Janne had been playing in some bands and projects during the years but besides of a couple of demos in the early 2000’s none of this material had ever been heard outside rehearsals. So from the beginning the idea of Rifftera was basically just to get music released – in a form that it deserves.
Antti Pöntinen and Jupe Karhu shared a musical past with Janne, and after being asked, they decided to join this new band. First years of the band involved a lot of learning and skill honing in both song writing and recording areas.
In 2012 Mikko Kuoppamaa joined the band and eventually it lead to a situation where Mikko started to take care of band’s clean singing and Janne dealt with the screaming parts. Before Rifftera Mikko had been just singing some backup vocals and Janne had basically never been in front of the microphone so the only reason to share vocal duties this way was the fact that there weren’t nobody else around to do it. Luckily promising results started to show up and after a couple of demos band finally released its debut album, Pitch Black, on August 2015.
The band had no drummer before the year 2016, when Ville Härkönen joined the lineup (Thomas Tunkkari, an old friend and the drummer of Dark Sarah, played the drums on Pitch Black as a session drummer and the demo-era was dealt with programmed drums). With Ville Rifftera started to work with the second album, Across the Acheron, that eventually ended up to be released on January 2019.
After some silent years, a four song EP named Coda was set up for release in 2024.
Line-up: Janne Hietala – Guitar, harsh vocals & clean vocals Mikko Kuoppamaa – Guitar & clean vocals Antti Pöntinen – Keyboards Jupe Karhu – Bass Ville Härkönen – 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
