PRAYING MANTIS to Release 13th Studio Album “Defiance” on April 19th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 23, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Praying Mantis, the iconic trailblazers of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), are delighted to announce the release of their first single, “Defiance” in conjunction with the unveiling of their highly anticipated 13th studio album.

Pre-order the album “Defiance”: https://orcd.co/defiance

The Album “Defiance” is set to drop on April 19, 2024 via Frontiers Music, marking a monumental milestone as the band commemorates its 50th Anniversary. Building on the success of their previous release, “Katharsis,” Praying Mantis continues to evolve their sound while staying true to their roots. Led by founding members and brothers Chris and Tino Troy, alongside vocalist Jaycee Cuijpers, drummer Hans in’t Zandt, and guitarist Andy Burgess, the band promises a collection of tracks that capture the essence of their legendary career.

“We’re thrilled to share the first single, ‘Defiance,’ with our fans,” says Chris Troy. “It sets the tone for what’s to come on the album—a perfect blend of classic Praying Mantis with a contemporary twist”.

The release of “Defiance” not only marks a new chapter for Praying Mantis but also serves as a testament to their enduring influence on the rock music scene. From powerful vocals to mesmerizing guitar riffs, the single encapsulates the band’s signature sound and unwavering spirit.

Originally named Junction, the band was formed in 1973 by brothers Tino (vocals/guitar) and Chris Troy (bass/vocals), later adding Steve Carroll (guitar/vocals) and Dave Potts (drums). Renamed Praying Mantis in 1974, the band is a pioneering force in the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. With a career spanning five decades, the band has remained at the forefront of the rock music scene, influencing generations of musicians with their unique sound and unwavering dedication to their craft.

As Praying Mantis continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, “Defiance” stands as a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of rock music.

“Defiance” Tracklist:
1 From The Start
2 Defiance
3 Feelin’ Lucky
4 I Surrender
5 Forever In My Heart
6 Never Can Say Goodbye
7 One Heart
8 Give It Up
9 Nightswim
10 Standing Tall
11 Let’s See

Tour Dates:
19th-21st April – Silja Rock Cruise, Stockholm, Sweden
25th April – The Carlisle – Hastings, UK
26th April – Cart & Horses – London, UK
28th April – Swindon, UK
23rd May – Iron Fest, Germany
25th May- Landgraaf, Netherlands (club)
5th & 6th June – Japan – Tokyo, Osaka
15th June – Prague – Venue TBC
20th June – Rock Imperium – Spain
21st & 22nd June – Czech Rep – Venue TBC
MORE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON

Praying Mantis Are:
Chris Troy
Tino Troy
Jaycee Cuijpers
Hans in’t Zandt
Andy Burgess

Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/PrayingMantisUKRockMetal
https://www.instagram.com/mantisofficial/
https://twitter.com/troymantis

VANDEN PLAS to Release New Album “The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things” on April 19th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 23, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Vanden Plas, the esteemed German progressive rock group, is excited to reveal the upcoming release of their latest album, “The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things” scheduled to drop on April 19th .

After a hiatus of four years since their last album, the band makes a triumphant return with an enthralling assortment of tracks, showcasing their unmatched musical skill and narrative artistry. Fans can get a taste of what’s in store with the release of the album’s lead single and accompanying video, “My Icarian Flight” available today.

Pre-order “The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things”: https://orcd.co/vandenplasteeotllt

This album signifies a significant milestone for Vanden Plas as they welcome Alessandro Del Vecchio as their new keyboardist, infusing fresh vigour and creativity into the band’s dynamic line-up. Del Vecchio’s addition promises to push Vanden Plas’s sound to unprecedented levels while staying faithful to their distinctive style.

“The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things” carries on the band’s legacy of pushing musical boundaries, melding intricate melodies with thought-provoking lyrics. It follows the footsteps of their acclaimed “The Ghost Xperiment” series, cementing Vanden Plas’s status as a leading force in the progressive rock genre.

Guitarist Stephan Lill, who chiefly crafted the compositions on the previous albums, takes sole charge of the music on “The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things,” while Andy Kuntz contributes the lyrics and vocal lines as usual. Kuntz remarks, “I’ve admired Alessandro since our collaboration for his outstanding Frontiers Allstars project, where numerous renowned rock musicians participated. Though Alessandro couldn’t partake in the songwriting for this album due to time constraints, his playing has already enriched the songs and sound with various nuances. The new artistic dynamic is palpable in this production.”

Nevertheless, Vanden Plas remains faithful to their signature style: progressive rock infused with elements of elegy, melody, and metallic and epic influences. Furthermore, it’s evident that Vanden Plas is embracing a “back to the roots” direction.

With its fusion of technical prowess and emotional resonance, “The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things” is poised to captivate audiences worldwide. Drawing inspiration from the imagery suggested by the lyrics’ concept, this album could be likened to the band rediscovering a lost jewel in the music universe after navigating through challenging experiences and losses.

“The Empyrean Equation of the Long Lost Things” Tracklist:

  1. The Empyrean Equation Of The Long Lost Things
  2. My Icarian Flight
  3. Sanctimonarium
  4. The Sacrilegious Mind Machine
  5. They Call Me God
  6. March Of The Saints

Vanden Plas are:
Stephan Lill
Andy Kuntz
Alessandro Del Vecchio
Andreas Lill
Torsten Reichert

MYRATH Release New Single ‘Candles Cry’ from Upcoming Album “Karma”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 23, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Myrath have presented their new single ‘Candles Cry’ through earMUSIC.

‘Candles Cry’ deals with inner conflict and how it can easily manifest in a negative way – if you choose not to resolve it. In an ever-changing society, which is doomed to be under constant pressure, the band makes a strong statement and encourages people to tackle conflicting feelings through music.

Says Kevin Codfert (producer & keyboarder of Myrath): “This song is very special to me as it’s the first vocal duet I’m singing with Zaher.”

“At first, it wasn’t supposed to go like this. I presented my interpretation of the chorus to Zaher, and he said, ‘I love your voice. So, go ahead, I’d rather have you sing it!’. From a deeper perspective, this song is about the loss of free will, of soldiers who no longer know which cause they should support.”

The band members of Myrath are strong believers in ‘music being medicine for the soul’ and want to encourage people to use music as an escape from their daily lives.

Listen to “Candles Cry” HERE

“Myrath from Tunisia might just be the most underrated band ever. Their new album really excites me – they have something fresh and back it up with a great stage show. They played a tiny stage at Wacken where nobody brings more than guitars and amps and brought a two-truck production. It was amazing!” – Pär Sundström, Sabaton

As the sands of time continued to shape their journey, Myrath’s relentless dedication led to the creation of their highly anticipated album “Karma,” slated for release in Feb 2024 on earMUSIC as limited transparent red LP, black LP and Digipak. The forthcoming opus promises to be a testament to their evolution, delivering a sonic tapestry woven from passion and innovation.

With “Karma”, Myrath solidify their place at the top of the metal scene with a powerful and captivating blend of Eastern melodies and Western heavy metal. From the epic opening track “To The Stars” to the hauntingly beautiful “Child Of Prophecy”, this album will take you on a theatrical journey through a world of myth and legend.

Featuring soaring vocals, intricate guitar riffs, and complex percussion, “Karma” showcases the virtuosity and creativity that have made Myrath one of the most exciting and innovative bands in the genre. With its stunning production and lush soundscapes, this album is sure to be a classic for years to come.

Preorder “Karma” HERE

TARJA Announces “What Lies Beneath (2024 Edition)” Album + Releases Special Edit of ‘Dark Star’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 23, 2024
Posted in: Int. News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

‘What Lies Beneath’ is the second rock studio album by Finnish solo artist Tarja. Originally released in 2010, it is considered a classic and must-have for both fans and critics and 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. Out on April 12th, 2024.

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.

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)

Access ‘Dark Star’ HERE – Access ‘What Lies Beneath (2024 Edition)’ HERE

YES Release Video for Edited Version of ‘Mirror To The Sky’, Announce UK & Europe Classic Tales Tour 2024

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 23, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

YES, who are Steve Howe, Geoff Downes, Jon Davison, Billy Sherwood & Jay Schellen, released their latest studio album ‘Mirror To The Sky’ in May 2023, and following an acclaimed US tour late last year, the band will return to the UK & Europe for ‘The Classic Tales of YES Tour 2024’. 

To coincide with this, they have launched a brand new video for an edited version of the album’s epic title track, and you can watch that now here:

A new Limited 2CD+Blu-ray Digipak edition of the album will also be released on the 5th April. This edition features the full album, plus the blu-ray including Dolby Atmos, 5.1 Surround Sound & Instrumental Mixes of the album and is available to pre-order here: https://yes-band.lnk.to/MirrorToTheSky

‘The Classic Tales of YES Tour 2024’ will include many iconic tracks from the YES back-catalogue covering fifty-plus years. The tour will also include a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of ‘Tales from Topographic Oceans’ as well as music from their current album ‘Mirror To The Sky’.

“We’re all excited to be bringing our show home to Europe and the UK!”  says Steve Howe, “We’ve selected a new playlist of Yes music but with some firm favourites in there too, of course! To keep our performances fresh, we ‘now’ carry our own lights, so we can present a consistent show each night, designed for us by William Succuso …….. Looking forward to seeing you out there!”

“We are very much looking forward to the 2024 European leg of our YES Classic Tales Tour. Having recently completed the US, we are now really excited to bring that out to all our fans in the UK and Europe. It promises to be one of our most interesting sets to date, scanning through much of YES’s history and with some previously unheard pieces as well as music from our latest album, ‘Mirror To The Sky’. Bring it on and see you all out there!” Best, Geoff Downes

Go to www.yesworld.com/live for all ticketing information. 

YES ONLINE:
http://www.yesworld.com
http://www.facebook.com/yestheband
http://www.twitter.com/yesofficial
http://www.youtube.com/user/yesofficial
http://www.instagram.com/yesofficial
http://www.soundcloud.com/yesofficial

RELIQA Sign to Nuclear Blast Records, Reveal Video for New Single ‘Terminal’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 23, 2024
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Photo by Kane Hibberd – Styled by Bridget Parker

Progressive metalcore outfit RELIQA have announced their signing to Nuclear Blast Records for all territories outside of Australia, where the band have signed to Greyscale Records. To coincide with the announcement of their new label, the Sydney, Australia based fourpiece have also revealed the video for their new single ‘Terminal’.

Vocalist Monique Pym comments:
“Terminal feels like the perfect re-introduction of Reliqa to the world. It’s vibrant, high-shine and optimistic, yet with a moody, introspective cloud hanging over it that foreshadows all that’s still to come. We’re beyond thrilled to be back, especially now with the support of our new families at Nuclear Blast and Greyscale.”

Nuclear Blast Records A&R Manager Jaap Wagemaker comments:
“We’re very excited to welcome RELIQA to our Nuclear Blast family.
The band caught our attention after the release of their last EP, I Dont Know What I Am, with their signature sound that blends elements of alternative, prog, djent and metalcore. The diversity of their sound paired with Monique’s stunning vocals means they appeal to a very wide audience.
RELIQA are on a mission, and their first release for Nuclear Blast, the exhilarating new single ‘Terminal’, is a bold statement that sees them step up to being a truly global band!
The future belongs to RELIQA, and working with Josh and Chris from their management team has been a great pleasure. We are looking forward to building this band up outside of Australia and beyond!”

Stream ‘Terminal’ on all platforms now at: https://reliqa.bfan.link/terminal

This March RELIQA will open for Halestorm at two shows in their native Australia. Dates and ticket info can be found below.
20th Mar – Liberty Hall – Sydney, AU
26th Mar – Princess Theatre – Brisbane, AU

Tickets are available from https://destroyalllines.com/