JAMES KENNEDY & THE UNDERDOGS to Release New Single ‘Shadows’ on 28th August

Posted by tarjavirmakari on August 12, 2026
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Following the release of their explosive single ‘Revolution’ in June which featured guest vocals from Benji Webbe of Skindred, South Wales based rockers James Kennedy and The Underdogs announce the release of their latest single, ‘Shadows’ which will be out on August 28th on Konic Records.   

The song shows the band taking a different direction to the punky / metal energy of the previous two singles and showcases their more melodic, mid-tempo groove side complete with anthemic sing-along chorus and soaring guitar solo from Jack Davies.

Of the lyrics, James Kennedy says: “The whole album is about rebelling against the evils and injustices of our times but ‘Shadows’ is about rebelling against our enemy within, our own personal, internal demons (in my case, depression and a busted nervous system). And just as we might throw a Molotov Cocktail at tyrants, that same fire within can bring light to the darkest corners of a soul blackened by shadows”

The cover art for ‘Shadows’ is a twist on the famous Amnesty International logo. 

The song is the 3rd single to be released from the band’s forthcoming new album entitled “Rebel” and it’s available to Pre-Save on Spotify now at: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/jameskennedyandtheunderdogs/shadows

‘Shadows’ will be available on all streaming platforms from Friday August 28th 

James Kennedy and The Underdogs are an alternative rock / punk band from Newport, South Wales, formed in 2023 by singer, author, podcaster and former Kyshera frontman, James Kennedy. The band includes Jack Davies on guitar, Elliot Blake on bass, and Aggy Nowicka on drums, all former and current members of the bands Kane’d, Catalysts, and Ravenbreed. 

In their mere three years as a band they have already earned a reputation for their anarchic and high-energy live shows, described by the Moshville Times as “pure rock ‘n’ roll energy” and as “Wales’ most vital live act” by Uber Rock. Their first album ‘Make Anger Great Again’ was released via Konic Records, and new album “Rebel” is due for release on the same label.

‘Rebel’ is set for release in November 2026 via Konic Records and will be available on all streaming platforms with vinyl and CD editions available from the band’s online store at: https://jameskennedystuff.bandcamp.com

https://www.instagram.com/andtheunderdogs/
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https://jameskennedyofficial.com

Guitarist BRAD GILLIS Explains Why He Did Not Perform at Ozzy’s Last Show “Back to the Beginning”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on August 12, 2026
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The Metal Voice spoke to NIGHT RANGER and former Ozzy Guitarist Brad Gillis about his time with Ozzy and NIGHT RANGER’S new Best of Album that will be released Aug 28, 2026 on Frontiers s.r.l.

Gillis also talked about why he was not present at Ozzy’s last show.

When asked if he was invited to perform at Black Sabbat/ Ozzy Last show, Back to the Beginning?

“I couldn’t go. I was on tour with my band (Night Ranger). I couldn’t put everybody out of work, you know, and everybody wanted you to pay your own way, whatever. But here, I’m paying my own way. I’m on tour. What do I do? Do I cancel the tour and put 15 people out of work, you know? So, I couldn’t do it. I got an email inquiring if I was interested in coming and I thought about it. I would have loved and I thought I can’t do this. I had wanted to but we’re on tour, you know  and the place we were playing the night of the actual show was a big festival. We had 8,000 people there. Um it’s what it was. Um and I would have loved to make make it and  been part of that, but  it’s what it was.

Iconic hard rockers NIGHT RANGER return with ‘Best Of,’ a career-spanning collection that brings their biggest songs to life like never before. Featuring refreshed 2026 remasters of fan favorites such as “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me,” “Sister Christian,” and “(You Can Still) Rock in America,” the album pairs iconic hits with highlights from the band’s modern era. Packed with soaring melodies, powerhouse performances, and unforgettable hooks, this ‘Best Of’ collection is a testament to a band that continues to thrive decades after its debut.

‘Best Of’ Track List:

  1. Don’t Tell Me You Love Me (2026)
  2. (You Can Still) Rock in America (2026)
  3. Sister Christian (2026)
  4. When You Close Your Eyes (2026)
  5. Four in the Morning (2026)
  6. Breakout
  7. Tomorrow
  8. Growin’ Up in California
  9. Time of Our Lives
  10. High Road
  11. No Time to Lose Ya
  12. Somehow Someway
  13. Truth
  14. Don’t Let Up
  15. Only for You Only
  16. Wasted Time (Sweetwater Studios) (Bonus Track)
  17. Feliz Navidad (Live) (Bonus Track)
  18. Hole In The Sun (Bonus Track Japan)

Pre-Order NIGHT RANGER’s ‘Best of’ Album HERE

RAM to Release “Against” Full-Length Album on October 9th, New Video / Single ‘Ghost Emperor’ Out Now

Posted by tarjavirmakari on August 12, 2026
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Photo by Sanna Bäckström

Swedish heavy metal titans RAM will release their new full-length, titled Against, on October 9th through Metal Blade Records.

It has been nearly seven years since The Throne Within, an album defined by its spiritual and metaphysical themes. With Against, RAM takes a more grounded approach, focusing on the experience of being pushed beyond reasonable limits and refusing to comply. The album captures that moment of resistance “that fire of defiance, which ultimately defines its title and message,” as the band collectively states.

For the production, RAM reunited with their longtime collaborator Johan Reiven, who had previously worked with the band on Lightbringer (2009). Without their own studio – having sold Black Path Studios – the band recorded at Studio Recordia in Varberg, Sweden. “At first, I wasn’t really comfortable not being in my own domain,” admits singer Oscar Carlquist. “But Johan is a far better sound tech than me and he did a wonderful job. We recorded the solos in a cool new way, as we set up two amps, one wet with a lot of effects and one dry with no effects. They were both mic’d up separately and they played into the enormous recording room in Recordia that is 150 square meters, where we placed two room mics (left and right).” The approach resulted in a rich, organic sound that enhanced the album’s overall character.

Musically, both guitarists continue to favor bridge pickups, maintaining a sharp and aggressive tone. The equipment used on Against reflects a classic approach, contributing to a sound that feels both timeless and direct. Sonically, Against was conceived as a return to classic recording philosophies. Drawing inspiration from the early works of Dio, MSG, and Sweet, the goal was to create an honest and unpolished sound. What you hear is what you get! In a music landscape increasingly divided into countless subgenres, the band positions itself deliberately outside of categorization. The title Against itself reinforces the band’s longstanding identity as nonconformists, viewing heavy metal as a form of sonic rebellion.

“We do not give a fuck about all these new strange subgenres popping up. We try to play heavy metal in its purest form. We try to hang on to the center of that energy, and we are completely uninterested in 99% of the metal scene,” asserts Carlquist.

As a precursor to the release, RAM delivers the record’s lead single, “Ghost Emperor” and an accompanying video.

Carlquist comments, “This is the opener of the album, a straightforward classic heavy metal song and pure RAM. Lyrically, it deals with how our power structures exist to conceal the true rulers, the ones we will never see or know, pulling the strings behind the curtain and controlling us all.“

Find pre-orders at: metalblade.com/ram

Against Track Listing:
01. Obsession
02. Ghost Emperor
03. One Vs. All
04. Abattoir
05. Out of Control
06. Leaving
07. Against
08. Night Blade
09. Rising Again
10. 1984
11. The Final Hour

RAM Live:
9/12/09/2026 Candelabrum Metalfest – León, MX
10/09/2026 TBA – Gothenburg, SE *Release Show
12/04/2026 Spectrum – Murcia, ES
12/05/2026 Peter Rock – Valencia, ES
12/06/2026 Upload – Barcelona, ES
12/07/2026 Urban – Vitoria, ES
3/12-13/2027 Heavy Metal Thunder Fest – Pisek, CZ
5/20-22/2027 Iron Fest – Ohmbachsee, DE

RAM:
Oscar Carlquist – vocals
Morgan Pettersson – drums
Harry Granroth – guitar
Martin Jonsson – guitar
Tobias Petterson – bass

https://ram-metal.com
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END OF ABYSS Release Second Single ‘Vultures’ from Upcoming Debut Album

Posted by tarjavirmakari on August 12, 2026
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Photo: End Of Abyss

Vultures, a massive and explosive track, is the second single from Finnish progressive metal band End of Abyss’ debut album Escape to a New Empire, marking the beginning of the concept record’s storyline. It is a piece whose energetic performance and powerful vocals elevate the epic concept to its full radiance, pulling the listener straight into the depths.

“Vultures explores the many possibilities of musical interpretation. In addition to traditional band instrumentation, the track incorporates industrial‑styled synth textures, and the chorus appears in three distinct variations throughout the journey,” explains composer Petrus Syvänperä.

Listen to the single on music services (Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz etc.): https://push.fm/fl/endofabyss-vultures

“Again the wide dynamic range in this song really speaks to me. I got to sing both loud and soft, yet always in a way that made sense — with logic, intention, and a clear dramatic arc,” adds vocalist Mikko Herranen.

Vultures opens the door to a narrative world that reveals new nuances with every listen, drawing the audience deeper toward the album’s core.

“The guitar solo section was composed by guitarist Alpo Pöytäkangas. His solo adds a technically complex element to the piece that is typical of progressive metal, giving Alpo the perfect moment to showcase his abilities,” summarizes Petrus Syvänperä.

–ISRC: FI3FC2656401
–Composer: Petrus Syvänperä, Alpo Pöytäkangas
–Lyricist: Petrus Syvänperä
–Arrangement: Petrus Syvänperä, Mikko Herranen & Alpo Pöytäkangas

Petrus Syvänperä: Guitars, keyboards, programming & drums
Mikko Herranen: Vocals
Janne Koskenkorva: Bass
Alpo Pöytäkangas: Lead guitar

End Of Abyss began in Jyväskylä, Finland in the early 2000s as Petrus Syvänperä’s one‑man project. The first self‑recorded demo appeared in 2010, slowly planting the idea of creating a full progressive metal album. A key part of the band’s musical evolution was the development of Petrus’s home studio, where years of demos shaped both the band’s sound and the album’s narrative. During this period, the project worked with several artists but did not yet settle on permanent members.

When the debut album entered the production phase in 2024, guitarist Alpo Pöytäkangas joined and contributed also to the songwriting. Shortly after, bassist Janne Koskenkorva became part of the lineup.

The band’s sound took a major leap forward when vocalist Mikko Herranen joined. His strong melodic sense, professional experience, and human‑centered working style helped shape the album’s sweeping, symphonic atmosphere.

In addition to Pöytäkangas and Syvänperä few tracks include solos by Antti Koivistoinen, who was involved also during the demo years, and rhythm guitars by Juha‑Matti “Masa” Berg (Remastered).

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BLACKLIST UNION Release New Single + Video ‘Madame Butterfly’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on August 12, 2026
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Los Angeles hard rock band Blacklist Union released their new single, “Madame Butterfly,” available now on all streaming platforms. Accompanied by a seductive new music video featuring rock icon Lorraine Lewis of Femme Fatale, the release captures the band’s signature blend of swagger, grit, and modern rock energy.

The official video for “Madame Butterfly” was filmed, edited, and directed by Michael Sarna of Inmotion Entertainment in Hollywood, California, delivering a cinematic visual experience that perfectly complements the song’s dark allure and raw intensity. Lorraine Lewis brings her unmistakable charisma and signature sensuality to the video, making for a memorable collaboration between two enduring forces in rock music.

Following the release, Blacklist Union will head overseas this September for a European tour alongside legendary glam rockers Faster Pussycat and Lorraine Lewis, bringing their high-energy live show to audiences across the continent.

Tony West says, “Everything that is happening right now is like walking through the keyhole to my biggest dreams. I’m here to bring the wow factor and the fire to the firefight… so let’s rock this shit.”

Lorraine Lewis adds, “Working with Tony has been icing on the cake for me. Having newly signed with Cleopatra Records, FEMME FATALE is slated to release our full album in August, produced by Steve Brown. The timing couldn’t be more perfect for the FASTER PUSSYCAT / BLACKLIST UNION tour.”

With Femme Fatale’s upcoming Cleopatra Records release produced by Steve Brown — known for his work with Trixter and Ace Frehley — and Blacklist Union gearing up for a massive European run, all signs point to a breakout moment for both camps.

“Madame Butterfly” is available now on all digital streaming platforms. Watch the official music video now and stay tuned for additional tour announcements and more new music from Blacklist Union.

Stream “Madame Butterfly” HERE

Tony West formed Blacklist Union because he wanted to play music that he wanted to hear. They put out the first Blacklist Union record, After the Mourning, in 2006. The band’s name comes from getting the best musicians in town with the worst reputations. With a shamanistic blend of Stone Temple Pilots, Guns N’ Roses, Warrior Soul, The Cult, and Mother Love Bone… Blacklist Union was born.

Blacklist Union have built a reputation on their explosive live shows and unapologetically bold sound. Their previous record, Letters from the Psych Ward, racked up over two million streams, setting the stage for the band’s new album. The band’s latest release was Slay the Dragon that came out in September 2025.

Frontman Tony West, known for his larger-than-life presence, took time out to dive deep into several transformative ayahuasca journeys in the heart of the Amazon, preparing for this next era of music.

As West put it, “Ayahuasca isn’t a drug—it’s powerful spiritual medicine from another realm. It helped me heal in ways I never thought possible, releasing layers of trauma, heartache, and sorrow. I’m not perfect—not Gandhi or anything—but it changed everything. My entire view of myself, love, the world, people, and my children changed because of those experiences.”

West was raised in the Bronx on The Ramones, Bad Brains, and NYHC. Hearing the call of the wild west, he made his way to Los Angeles at 19 years old. West took a break from L.A. to try out Memphis in 1998. While he was there, he attended the first Saliva gig with Paul Crosby on drums. This marked the beginning of a lifelong friendship between Crosby and West, leading to management, song collaborations, and guest video appearances. West collaborated with guitarist Todd Youth (Murphy’s Law /Danzig) and Malfunkshun, which was kept active by Andy Wood’s brother Kevin Wood. Andy Wood is West’s muse, and he was honored to sing in his hero’s band. 

For More Information Please Visit:

Blacklist Union: Official Website – Facebook – X – Instagram – TikTok – YouTube

Lorraine Lewis of Femme Fatale: Official Website – Facebook – Instagram – TikTok – YouTube

SICKMIND Unveil Video for First Single ‘New God’ from Upcoming Album “Babel Tower”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on August 12, 2026
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French Groove Death Metal outfit SICKMIND has unveiled the official video for “New God”, offering the first glimpse into their upcoming full-length album, “Babel Tower”, due out October 9, 2026.

Formerly known as SILICIUM, SICKMIND operates within a dark and dystopian groove death metal universe shaped by themes of collapse, desolation, and a world on the brink of extinction. Drawing on post-apocalyptic imagery and an atmosphere of impending doom, the band’s music explores the darker side of a civilization pushed to its limits. 

“New God” serves as a powerful introduction to the world of “Babel Tower”, combining crushing groove-driven riffs, dark atmospheres, and an uncompromising intensity. The accompanying video further brings SICKMIND’s dystopian vision to life, setting the tone for what promises to be the band’s most ambitious release to date.

Stream the single HERE

The current lineup has revived SILICIUM, a band originally dating back to 2008, and began its new chapter by taking the stage as the opening act for Aephanemer. A sold-out show in Bordeaux in January 2023 marked the beginning of the new era for the band and laid the groundwork for what would become SICKMIND.

In 2024, the band recorded a new EP, released across all major streaming platforms in December, while continuing to build momentum on stage. Since 2025, the band has performed extensively across France, Spain, Portugal, and England, sharing stages at shows and festivals with acts including Eight Sins, Dagoba, Dygora, Gorod, and The Great Old Ones.

Tracklist:
01. While The Lights Are Still Shut (feat. Nicolas Alberny from Gorod)
02. The Chaos Beneath Our Feet (feat. Julien ‘Nutz’ Deyres from Gorod)
03. Dark Code
04. Dry Earth
05. New God
06. Shedding Skin
07. Humaless
08. Babel Tower
09. Moving Limbs
10. The Last Wandering

Now performing under the name SICKMIND, the four-piece is preparing to enter its next chapter with “Babel Tower”. Set for release on October 9, self-released by the band, the album expands SICKMIND’s dark and dystopian universe, drawing listeners into a world shaped by destruction, uncertainty, and the remnants of a civilization in decline. Furthermore, the album features contributions from Nicolas Alberny and Julien ‘Nutz’ Deyres of GOROD, adding their distinctive presence to the record’s dark and uncompromising sound.

SICKMIND are:
Arthur Nouhaud – Vocals
Maxime Roget – Guitar
Thomas Darracq – Bass
Antoine Fourre – Drums

For more info visit:
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