70000TONS OF METAL Reveals 2027 Dates & Destination

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 1, 2026
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70000TONS OF METAL, The Original, The World’s Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise, proudly announces the next edition of its legendary voyage: 70000TONS OF METAL 2027 will set sail from Miami, Florida to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and back, from January 14 through January 18, 2027.

Additional details, including ship information, sales dates, lineup announcements, and onboard experiences, will be revealed in the coming months. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned by visiting http://www.70000tons.com and following @70000tons across all official social media channels.

After another unforgettable chapter of Heavy Metal history on the High Seas, the iconic festival-at-sea is preparing to welcome Sailors from around the globe once again for five days of Heavy Metal, Caribbean adventure, and the unparalleled camaraderie that has defined 70000TONS OF METAL since its inaugural voyage. As always, the journey will unite metalheads from every corner of the world for the ultimate onboard experience: 60 bands, 120+ live performances, exclusive artist activities, meet-and-greets, and a floating community where fans and artists share the same decks, stages, restaurants, bars, and unforgettable moments.

For the 2027 edition, Sailors will travel from the iconic PortMiami to the sun-soaked northern coast of the Dominican Republic, where Puerto Plata awaits with a vibrant tapestry of Caribbean scenery, historic charm, local culture, and unforgettable shore-side experiences. Known as one of the Dominican Republic’s most beloved destinations, Puerto Plata offers a striking coastal backdrop framed by mountains, a bustling oceanfront Malecón, colorful shops, and elegant 19th-century Victorian architecture.

During the day in port, Sailors will have the opportunity to explore one of the Caribbean’s most distinctive destinations before returning on board for another evening of Heavy Metal on the High Seas. From panoramic mountain views to golden beaches, lively local culture, and world-renowned amber, Puerto Plata offers a powerful contrast to the intensity of the onboard festival: the perfect Caribbean interlude between late-night shows, artist-hosted events, and round-the-clock entertainment.

Among Puerto Plata’s highlights is Mount Isabel de Torres, rising nearly 800 meters above sea level and crowned by its towering Christ statue. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride to the summit, explore lush botanical gardens, or enjoy sweeping views over the coastline and city below. Sailors looking for beach time can head toward Sosúa Beach, known for its soft sand, clear waters, and opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax by the Caribbean Sea.

Those interested in culture and history can explore Parque Independencia, also known as Parque Central, surrounded by royal palms and Victorian architecture, or visit Casa de Cultura, a three-story Victorian house that serves as a hub for local art, exhibitions, books, and creative expression. Puerto Plata is also famous for producing some of the world’s clearest amber, giving visitors the chance to browse local shops and bring home a unique piece of Dominican craftsmanship.

The destination also offers a taste of Dominican flavors, from “La Bandera Dominicana” — a traditional plate of rice, beans, meat or fish, salad, and fried sweet plantains — to pica pollo and mamajuana, one of the country’s most recognized local drinks. Whether Sailors choose mountain views, beach time, cultural exploration, local cuisine, or simply a few hours ashore before returning to the madness on board, Puerto Plata is set to become a memorable part of the 70000TONS OF METAL 2027 voyage.

With this announcement, 70000TONS OF METAL continues its tradition of combining the world’s most unique Heavy Metal festival experience with extraordinary Caribbean destinations. More than a cruise, more than a festival, and far beyond a standard vacation, 70000TONS OF METAL remains a one-of-a-kind gathering where metalheads from around the world come together as The United Nations Of Heavy Metal At Sea.

70000TONS OF METAL is The Original, The World’s Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise.

With ten consecutive sellouts since the inaugural voyage in 2011, this extraordinary and unique floating festival now sails onboard some of the largest luxury passenger vessels in the world. Featuring 60 Heavy Metal bands from around the globe performing across four stages, 70000TONS OF METAL is home to The World’s Biggest Open Air Stage Structure to Ever Sail the Open Seas.

Guests can enjoy the Heavy Metal festival experience of a lifetime with all the benefits that a cruise has to offer: complimentary fine dining, bars that never close, 24-hour room service, as well as the ship’s many amenities.

All 60 bands onboard play twice — and there are four concert locations on board: a concert hall, the Royal Theater, stands tall with five levels. The Star Lounge offers a more personal and local club-like ambiance. Discover the arena-like vibes at Studio B, the third indoor stage available. Lastly, yet undoubtedly the most remarkable, is the Pool Deck Stage: The World’s Biggest Open Air Stage Structure to Ever Sail the Open Seas. This immense stage is accompanied by bars, pools, and even hot tubs that are integrated into the stage itself, allowing guests to indulge in the unique experience of watching their favorite metal bands while soaking in a hot tub.

This 4-day Heavy Metal Music Festival and Caribbean vacation offers 3000 metalheads the amazing opportunity to mingle side-by-side with all of the bands onboard. With no VIP areas it truly is like everyone has a backstage pass. Not only do guests have unrestricted festival access to 120+ live performances — all bands play twice — every ticket also includes meet & greets with each band, intimate masterclasses with select musicians, world live premieres, exclusive listening sessions of unreleased material, and special artist events. Guests also have full access to the “Jamming in International Waters” All Star Jam — a one-of-a-kind concert featuring a host of musical virtuosos performing classic metal songs together on stage.

Sailors also have the special opportunity to explore a Caribbean dream destination with their favorite band members on an Artist Escorted Shore Excursion, another 70000TONS OF METAL exclusive.

For more details about 70000TONS OF METAL 2027, including FAQs, vessel amenities and contact information, please visit 70000tons.com.

Guests and fans are also invited to join the 70000TONS OF METAL community
on The 70000TONS OF METAL Official Forum https://70000tons.com/forum.
https://www.facebook.com/70000tons, https://twitter.com/70000tons, https://www.instagram.com/70000tons, https://www.tiktok.com/@70000tons?lang=en, https://www.youtube.com/70000tons, https://t.me/original70000tons + https://open.spotify.com/user/31wphhaqhspcwfbk7kn2vcicr3wy?si=fe255a6a5ede441b

OMEN//SKYE Release New Single + Lyric Video ‘Cry the White Lie’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 1, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Maryland-based metalcore outfit Omen//Skye have released their powerful new single and music video, “Cry the White Lie.” Blending crushing heaviness, cinematic atmosphere, and emotionally driven songwriting, the track showcases the band’s signature balance of intricate riffs, melodic hooks, and raw intensity.

“Cry the White Lie” explores the tension between self-deception and accountability, diving into the quiet lies people tell themselves to justify who they’ve become, the reality of the world around them, and the inevitable breaking point where those illusions begin to collapse.

“Crying out against the lies we’re told day after day. No longer will we remain complacent,” the band shares about the track.

Drawing influence from both classic and modern metalcore while maintaining a distinct identity of their own, Omen//Skye continue building momentum through high-impact live performances and a growing catalog of emotionally charged releases. “Cry the White Lie” further cements the band’s ability to fuse cinematic soundscapes with aggressive, hook-driven songwriting that resonates long after the song ends.

Mixed and mastered by Drew Licurgo and Six:Eight Audio, the single delivers a polished yet punishing sound that highlights the band’s dynamic approach to modern heavy music. The release is distributed via Arson Theory and managed by Core Collective Talent Agency.

STREAM “Cry the White Lie” HERE

UPCOMING SHOW:
July 11th @ Peabody Brewing in Baltimore, MD (Beef & Beer & Beatdowns Wrestling Festival)

OMEN//Skye:
Nick Troisi – Lead Vocals
Joshua Grzywacz – Vocals / Rhythm Guitar
Dillon Thatcher – Drums
Dominic Buie – Bass
Brian Baugus – Lead Guitar

For More Information Please Visit: Instagram – Facebook – TikTok

RAIVO JACKSON’s New Single ‘Better Not’ Takes You to the Counter of Texas Dixie bar

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 1, 2026
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Raivo Jackson’s “Better Not” is a delightfully confident, comforting, and major-key-leaning traditional country song. It takes the listener to the counter of a Texas Dixie bar, where a weathered cowboy reflects on his relationship with a glass of whiskey in hand, a beer for company.

”Better Not” is the fourth track on side A of Raivo Jackson’s debut album Tangled Up in Roots, and it deserved its release as a single.

The song captures a middle-aged man’s longing for an equal relationship and independence. “Better Not” is something anyone navigating a relationship should listen to and take to heart.

The interplay between Jussi Linkola’s lap steel guitar and harmonica is a standout feature of the track, and Oona Kavasto’s strong backing vocals add the presence of the other side of the relationship to the storytelling song.

“My life has looked for me for half a century / And I know my moral code without you judging me.” Every word rings true.

The cover painting for the “Better Not” single is a work by artist Tuukka Peltonen, with cover layout by Matti Reivi.

Previously released singles from Tangled Up in Roots include ”Fire Song Revisited,” ”Babes in the Woods,” and ”Swimming Under Ice”.

Better Not on streaming services: Spotify – Apple Music – Deezer – Qobuz – Tidal

More info: Facebook | Instagram

VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) Unleash New Video Single ‘Monsters!’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 1, 2026
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VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) look beyond the glamour and allure of the neon-lights in the new single release, “Monsters!”. Beneath the luxury façade, something sinister awaits in V.B.O.‘s fusion of retro-futuristic synths and heavy music. Comprised of Francesco Cavalieri (WIND ROSE) and Simone Giusti, a wizard of electronics and groove-laden basslines, Italy’s V.B.O. is preparing to unveil the forthcoming full length, Vice Business Only, on July 24, 2026, via Reigning Phoenix Music.

Pre-order Vice Business Only HERE: https://vbo.rpm.link/vboPR

“‘Monsters’ dives into the darker side of modern society, exposing the vices we often choose to ignore or disguise.” Reveals frontman Francesco Cavalieri. “In true VBO style, the video transforms these flaws into literal monsters, turning hidden truths into striking visual metaphors. Beneath the neon lights and cinematic aesthetic lies a deeper message; like a reflection of a world that often masks its imperfections behind glamour. Too excessive? No. It’s VBO baby.”

V.B.O.‘s characteristic catchy hooks and energized electronics are infused with a shadowy touch in “Monsters!”. Explosive beats see “Monsters!” spark into life, before heavy rhythmic stabs and melodic guitar riffs emerge beneath an array of warm analogue synth textures. The memorable chorus lyric “we are monsters” injects an anthemic feel while the track’s breakdown passage takes a darker turn. 

Filmed at Vacuum Club, Milan, V.B.O. lift the veil on the bloodthirsty monsters that hide in plain sight across the electric urban nightlife. 

Vice Business Only was recorded at LSD-Studios (Lübeck, Germany), produced, mixed and mastered by Lasse Lammert. Photography is by Onofrio Petronella and Tommaso Barletta, with the album cover artwork design by V.B.O. 

Vice Business Only Tracklist:
1. VBO x Vesti la Giubba
2. Bring on the Fire
3. Waiting for the Dawn
4. Lovers on the Run
5. Surrendered
6. Fire Fire
7. Shadow of Your Kiss
8. Monsters!
9. The Wild Boys

About V.B.O.:

VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) is a musical project founded in 2023 by Francesco Cavalieri, best known as the frontman of the power metal band WIND ROSE, together with electronic music producer Simone Giusti. The project marks a bold artistic shift for Cavalieri, moving from fantasy-driven metal into a modern, urban, and cinematic soundscape.

The band’s lineup is completed by Claudio Falconcini (guitar), Federico Meranda (keyboards), and Angelo Carmignani (drums), combining diverse musical backgrounds into a cohesive identity.

V.B.O. blends retro-futuristic synthwave with rock and metal, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and electrifyingly modern. Inspired by Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Daft Punk, and Justice, the band combines analog-style synths, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals into a polished, immersive experience.

At the core of V.B.O. lies a neon-drenched vision of excess, elegance, and cinematic nightlife—echoing the glamour and danger of cities like Miami. Themes of power, luxury, passion, and excess define the project, presenting the band almost as a stylized gang where image and attitude are as essential as the music.

The band made its live debut in January 2026 at the 70000 Tons of Metal festival in the United States, stepping onto one of the world’s most recognized international stages.

Since its inception, V.B.O. has positioned itself as a distinctive force in contemporary music, merging rock and metal energy with electronic groove and texture. More than a band, Vice Business Only delivers a complete audiovisual experience—a high-stakes journey through a retro-futuristic universe where the rhythm never slows and the attitude is larger than life.

V.B.O. Is:
Francesco Cavalieri – Vocals
Simone Giusti – Bass
Claudio Falconcini – Guitar
Federico Meranda – Keys
Angelo Carmignani – Drums

Connect With V.B.O.:
Website: https://www.vbomusic.com/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vicebusinessonly 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vbomusic/ 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vbomusic 

MELANIE’s ‘Brand New Key’ Gets Brand New Start with 1971 Concert Recording & Visit to Ad-Land

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 1, 2026
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The song’s official title is “Brand New Key,” although it’s just as well known as “the bicycle song,” “the roller-skates song” and even (thanks to the Wurzels’ 1975 UK chart topper) “The Combine Harvester Song.”  Wharecer you want to call it, though, “Brand New Key” topped the US chart for a month at the beginning of 1972, and it remains many people’s point of entry to Melanie’s long, spectacular career.

Now, as “Brand New Key” reaches out to an entire new audience via the latest Apple Watch app ad, Cleopatra Records today release a unique version of the song, recorded live at New York City’s fabled DeMille Theatre in late 1971, just as the song commenced its headlong rush up the chart.

 The venue itself is noteworthy – Broadway had never hosted a straightforward rock or pop concert… but there again, Melanie’s concerts were rarely straightforward. Not with an audience as loyal, and vocal, as her’s.

Performing before a jam-packed crowd, themselves reveling in the unfamiliar surroundings of one of the city’s most legendary halls, Melanie was both launching her latest album, Gather Me, and celebrating her “Brand New Key”’s conquest of the airwaves – although nobody could have predicted just how successful (and career defining) it would become.

 Taken from the forthcoming (release date – July 17) live album First Nights On Broadway, “Brand New Key” opened the show, building out of a brief, but so delightful chorus of the old standard “Give My Regards To Broadway.”  And, although the record had barely been in the stores for more than a few days, it was as if every person in the audience knew the song – the roar of applause that greets its’ opening lyric proves that.

In later years, Melanie would admit that the “finished” version of “Brand New Key” sounded nothing like she envisioned it when it was first composed, going on to record several new versions that took it far from its familiar parameters. Tonight, too, she’s taking chances with the song, as she acknowledges when she is finally forced to stop playing and confess, “I’m so ashamed. I started in the wrong key.”

SINGLE: https://orcd.co/melanie_broadwaybrandnewkey

It’s an electrifying performance, and an exquisite introduction to the show – 16 songs, recorded across two nights of shows, First Nights On Broadway is a glorious stroll through Melanie’s career so far, with earlier hits “Beautiful People” and “Lay Down (Cancels In The Rain)” ringing out alongside vivid selections from the new LP, yet closing with a song that would not be released for another three years, the semi-autobiographical  “The Actress” – “when they asked her to play music, she sang until she died.”

Melanie passed away in January 2024, just as Cleopatra Records launched what Goldmine magazine described as “one of the most significant reissue campaigns of recent years.”  This includes most every one of her official album releases, alongside an archive-busting collection of rare and previously unreleased material dating back to her teenaged years, and including recordings with stars as far apart as Jan Akkerman, Jimmy Cliff, Rick James’ Stone City Band and Billy Joel’s regular accompanists.

For details of the full catalog, a full color free download The Complete Collection, is available here.

Track listing

  1. Introduction (US TV November 1971)
  2. Give My Regards To Broadway – Brand New Key
  3. Johnny Boy
  4. Steppin’
  5. Some Day I’ll Be A Farmer
  6. Alexander Beetle
  7. What Have They Done To My Song, Ma
  8. Come All Ye Faithful
  9. Psychotherapy
  10. Center Of The Circle
  11. Babe Rainbow
  12. Beautiful People
  13. Peace Will Come (According To Plan)
  14. Ring The Living Bell
  15. Lay Down
  16. The Actress
    BONUS TRACK
  17. Do You Believe (live, Saratoga Springs (09.05.71)

GRETA VAN FLEET Return with New Single + Video ‘Play Your Games’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on June 1, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo Credit: Lewis Evans

Following their electrifying and intimate underplay performance at New York City’s legendary Bowery Ballroom earlier this week, GRAMMY® Award-winning rock band Greta Van Fleet officially return today with their explosive new single and music video, “Play Your Games” — the first taste of what signals a powerful new age for the band.

Listen to “Play Your Games” HERE.

Recorded and co-produced in Tennessee by the band alongside acclaimed producer Mike Elizondo (Fiona Apple, Turnstile, Sheryl Crow), “Play Your Games” captures Greta Van Fleet at their most raw, irreverent and instinctive. Inspired by one of their oldest demos from the band’s revisited archives, the track channels the spirit of their earliest days — loud, fearless and untamed.
 
Written by the band, “Play Your Games” leads the charge with swagger, chaos and sharp-edged charm, feeling like a nod to the band’s formative years performing in small clubs in their hometown of Frankenmuth, Michigan. Jake Kiszka explains. “It’s this beautiful nature of seizing a moment.”
 
Accompanied by an official music video produced and directed by MOONBASE ®, the visual further expands the band’s evolving world, marking Greta Van Fleet’s first new music since stepping away from the limelight, offering fans an exciting glimpse into where they are headed next.

The release arrives just days after the band stunned fans and critics with a sweat-drenched, sold-out underplay show at Bowery Ballroom, reigniting anticipation around their return and reminding audiences why Greta Van Fleet remain one of rock music’s most compelling live forces. Josh shares, “to take the stage again and share new music feels profoundly emotional and exciting. To see people singing and celebrating in this moment is a reminder of the power of music, and there’s so much more to come.”

“Play Your Games” is out everywhere now.