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SARTORI Unveil New Single ‘Just An Illusion’ from Upcoming Album “We’re Rising”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on July 9, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: SARTORI. Leave a comment

Rockshots Records is proud to announce the release of “Just An Illusion”, the first single from SARTORI’s upcoming studio album “We’re Rising“, scheduled for release on January 29th, 2027 on CD, vinyl and digital formats.
​
Following the debut album “Dragon’s Fire”, guitarist, composer and virtuoso Andy Sartori returns with a new chapter that expands the SARTORI sound into a more melodic, eclectic and old-school heavy metal direction. “We’re Rising” marks a different experience compared to the first album, driven by stronger melodic songwriting, the powerful vocal presence of Mark Boals and a broader musical approach.
​
Inspired by the golden era of late-’80s hard rock and heavy metal, the album blends neo-classical guitar work, American power metal energy, AOR influences and the spirit of Yngwie Malmsteen’s Odyssey-era while retaining the refined arrangements and virtuoso musicianship that define Andy Sartori’s vision.
​
The album features legendary vocalist Mark Boals – known for his work with Yngwie Malmsteen, Ring of Fire and Royal Hunt – alongside Andy A. Sartori on guitars and keyboards, Andre Di Sao Thiago on bass guitar and Dino Castano on drums. “We’re Rising” was mixed by Kfir Gov at Evil Snail Studios in Austin, Texas, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum, assisted by Zach Kornhauser at Maor Appelbaum Mastering in California.
​
Opening the campaign is “Just An Illusion”, a melodic and uplifting track built around a positive message of perseverance: keeping faith, continuing to fight and believing that the effort is worth it. The song combines a European melodic metal feel with strong vocal hooks, powerful riffs and Andy Sartori’s neo-classical guitar identity, making it the perfect introduction to the sound and spirit of “We’re Rising“.

Speaking about the single, Andy Sartori comments:
​
“’Just An Illusion‘ is a positive ‘keep the faith and keep trying because it’s worth it’ kind of song. It also has a very European kind of style which gives it a special melodic character within the album.”
​
Discussing the new album, Sartori adds:
​
“We’re Rising is a different experience compared to the first album, starting with Mark Boals’ fantastic vocals and melodic approach. The new songs are also more eclectic than the ones from the first album, which makes this record a very important step forward for SARTORI.”
​
With its mix of classic heavy metal energy, melodic choruses and refined guitar work, “We’re Rising” is aimed at fans of Yngwie Malmsteen’s Odyssey era, Rainbow, Axel Rudi Pell, American power metal, ’80s heavy rock and neo-classical melodic metal.

LISTEN to “Just An Illusion” on all digital platforms – https://lnk.to/s8rJai

PRE-ORDER “We’re Rising” on CD: https://rockshots.eu/products/sartori-were-rising-cd​
​​PRE-ORDER “We’re Rising” on LP: https://rockshots.eu/products/sartori-were-rising-lp

Track Listing:​
1. An Army Of One
2. Just An Illusion
3. Little Aria In G Major Part II
4. Renaissance
5. Quest For Glory
6. Someone To Hold You
7. Solitude
8. Savage
9. My Eternal Fight
10. We’re Rising

Sartori Line-up:

Andy A. Sartori: Guitars
​Mark Boals: Vocals
​Andre Di Sao Thiago: Bass Guitars
​Dino Castano: Drums

Biography:

SARTORI is an American virtuoso guitarist and songwriter whose music combines melodic hard rock, neo-classical influences, and traditional heavy metal with a contemporary production approach. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Axel Rudi Pell and the timeless sound of Rainbow, he delivers technically accomplished yet highly melodic compositions that balance instrumental virtuosity with memorable songwriting.

For more info:
​https://rockshots.eu/​
​https://www.facebook.com/people/Sartori/100031570075980/

CHARNEL CROWN Sign with Wanikiya Record for Release of Debut EP “Such Is Life”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on July 9, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: CHARNEL CROWN. Leave a comment
Photo by Down The Barrel Photography

Wanikiya Record/Promotion is proud to officially welcome Irish Groove Metal Force CHARNEL CROWN to its international roster. Their debut EP “Such Is Life” arrives on August 15, 2026.

Rising from the heart of Dublin’s underground metal scene, Charnel Crown have quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting new names in modern groove metal. Driven by crushing riffs, relentless grooves and uncompromising honesty, the band is now ready to take the next step on the international stage through their new partnership with Wanikiya Record/Promotion, which will handle the worldwide promotion of the band.

Formed in December 2025, Charnel Crown embody the spirit of working-class metal. Their music is born from real life, hard work and pure passion, delivering a sound that is heavy, aggressive and emotionally authentic. No gimmicks. No trends. No compromises.
Just pure metal.

Although the band is still in its early days, its members bring years of live experience, having performed extensively throughout Ireland while sharing the stage with internationally acclaimed acts including Xentrix, Chelsea Grin, Avatar, Fozzy, Jinjer and Evil Scarecrow.
And this is only the beginning.

THE DEBUT EP IS COMING!
Alongside this exciting announcement, Charnel Crown are thrilled to reveal the release of their highly anticipated debut EP: “SUCH IS LIFE”, Release Date: August 15, 2026.

A powerful collection of songs that blends crushing groove metal, razor-sharp modern production, raw aggression and unforgettable hooks into a release destined to make an impact across the international metal scene.
Such Is Life perfectly represents the band’s philosophy: telling real stories without filters, transforming everyday struggles into heavy music that connects with people through honesty, power and emotion.

Every song hits hard.
Every riff tells a story.
Every note comes straight from the soul.

This collaboration marks an important milestone for both Charnel Crown and Wanikiya Record/Promotion.
Known for supporting outstanding rock and metal artists worldwide, Wanikiya Record/Promotion continues to expand its international roster by working with passionate, authentic musicians and bringing their music to webzines, magazines, radio stations, festivals and media outlets across the globe.

With Charnel Crown joining the family, another exciting chapter begins—one built on dedication, integrity and the relentless power of heavy music.

The band shared: “Joining the Wanikiya Record/Promotion family is a huge step forward for us. We truly believe in the music we’re creating, and we’re incredibly excited to share ‘Such Is Life’ with metal fans around the world. This is just the beginning of our journey.”

GET READY.
The countdown has officially begun.
On August 15, 2026, a new force in groove metal will be unleashed.
CHARNEL CROWN
Heavy.
Honest.
Unstoppable.
Welcome to the next chapter.

More info: https://linktr.ee/charnelcrownmetal

BRAINSTORM Announce New Studio Album “Nightfall” for Spring 2027

Posted by tarjavirmakari on July 9, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: Brainstorm. Leave a comment
Photo Credit: Markus Wolf Fotografie

A new chapter begins. German metal veterans BRAINSTORM have officially announced their brand-new studio album, Nightfall. The band’s forthcoming full-length will be released via Reigning Phoenix Music in Spring 2027, marking the next milestone in a career spanning more than three decades.

Following the critically acclaimed Plague Of Rats, BRAINSTORM continue to expand the lyrical universe inspired by Indian mythology while delivering the powerful songwriting, memorable hooks and unmistakable heaviness that have become the band’s trademark. At the same time, Nightfall will see the band embracing an even rawer and more dynamic approach, reaffirming the qualities that have made BRAINSTORM one of Germany’s most enduring metal acts.

Nightfall also introduces BRAINSTORM‘s current lineup, welcoming bassist Danij Perl and drummer Kevin Lütolf. Together with vocalist Andy B. Franck and guitarists Torsten Ihlenfeld and Milan Loncaric, the renewed lineup has forged an album that confidently looks ahead while staying true to the band’s unmistakable identity.


Andy B. Franck comments:

“It’s been a while since you last heard from me, right? Well, buckle up — because next year sees the release of our new album, Nightfall, which takes us even deeper into the realm of Indian mythology and more demonic realms.

Nightfall brings you to a world of beauty and grace, but also of death and despair. I’m so excited and can’t wait to drag you all down into these abysses with me, haha! I’m really keen to bring more of that raw, primal power back into the traditional sound. The result is going to blow your minds, and with my friend Seeb (Sebastian ‘Seeb’ Leverman | Orden Ogan) at the mixing desk, we can look forward to an awesome metal album in the spring of ’27! So, get ready for an incredible journey…”

Further details about Nightfall, including a first single and more info, will be revealed in the coming months.

Connect with BRAINSTORM:
http://www.brainstorm-web.net
http://www.facebook.com/officialbrainstorm
http://www.instagram.com/official.brainstorm

BLACKBRAID to Support CONVERGE on November EU/UK Tour

Posted by tarjavirmakari on July 9, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: BLACKBRAID. Leave a comment

Photo by Wolf Mountain Productions

Indigenous solo black metal project BLACKBRAID is honored to announce an upcoming tour in EU/UK, in which the project will be supporting CONVERGE and SANGUISUGABOGG with additional support from PUPIL SLICER. The trek will kick off on November 12, 2026 in München (DE) and will conclude 10 days later in London (UK). The full itinerary can be found below while tickets will go on sale Friday, July 10 at 11:00 A.M. CEST / 10:00 A.M. UK time. Tickets will be made available at THIS LOCATION.

Blackbraid mastermind and composer Sgah’gahsowáh comments, “Today, I am beyond excited to announce our next European run, in support of the mighty Converge. This is a band that means a great deal to me personally, and to be able to support them on this European run is truly an honor. We will also be joined by our friends in Sanguinisabogg and Pulp Slicer, absolutely cannot wait for this one, see you again very soon Europe!”

Prior to the tour, BLACKBRAID will also be embarking on a slew of August festivals in Europe, as well as a headliner in Barcelona (ES) on August 11, which will be BLACKBRAID’s first ever appearance in Spain!

ICYMI: BLACKBRAID surprised fans earlier this year with a new EP, ‘Nocturnal Womb,’ which was independently released on March 6, 2026. The EP saw two original tracks, “Nocturnal Womb” and “Celestial Bloodlust,” which were too dark and visceral to fit the story of ‘Blackbraid III.’ They exist on their own outside of the album trilogy via this standalone EP, which also contains an acoustic instrumental rendition of “Barefoot Ghost Dance on Blood Soaked Soil.” ‘Nocturnal Wound’ can be ordered now via Blackbraid.US & Blackbraid.EU

Blackbraid is a solo indigenous black metal project from from the depths of the Adirondack wilderness creating music as raw and powerful as the mountains from whence it came… 

BLACKBRAID Live Shows:

(BLACKBRAID only):
Aug 06: Jaroměř (CZ) @ Brutal Assault
Aug 07: Helsinki (FI) @ HELLsinki Metal Fest
08/09: Kortrijk (BE) @ Alcatraz
Aug 11: Barcelona (ES) @ Razzmatazz 3 (First show in Spain)
Aug 12: Wittelshofen (DE) @ Summer Breeze Open Air

(Supporting CONVERGE + SANGUISUGABOGG w/ PUPIL SLICER)
12.11.26: München (DE) @ Backstage
13.11.26: Karlsruhe (DE) @ Substage
15.11.26: Strasbourg (FR) @ La Laiterie
16.11.26: Paris (FR) @ Bataclan
18.11.26: Leeds (UK) @ Project House
19.11.26: Bristol (UK) @ Electric Bristol
20.11.26: Glasgow (UK) @ SWG3
21.11.26: Nottingham (UK) @ Rock City
22.11.26: London (UK) @ Electric Brixton

Get the tickets here: https://blackbraid.us/pages/shows

Cover artwork photographed by Darby Lahger

Tracklist:

  1. Nocturnal Womb (08:38)
  2. Celestial Bloodlust (04:34) [WATCH]
  3. Barefoot Ghost Dance on Blood Soaked Soil – Acoustic (06:54)

Creator of Blackbraid: Sgah’gahsowáh

‘Nocturnal Womb’ Album Credits:
Composed & performed by Sgah’gahsowáh
Drums, recording, mixing & mastering by Neil Schneider
Illustration by Adrian Baxter
Cover Photograph by Darby Lahger
Graphic Design & Artist Photo by Wolf Mountain Productions

Follow // Listen: Bandcamp – Spotify – Apple Music – YouTube – Instagram

Shop/Order: Official Merch Store (USA) – Official Merch Store (EU) 

SNOWY SHAW Announces “Shawsome! – The Snowy Shaw Collection Vol I.” as Limited Fans & Collectors Edition

Posted by tarjavirmakari on July 9, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: Snowy Shaw. Leave a comment

SNOWY SHAW has announced his unique & interesting album release & concept in the works, entitled “Shawsome! – The Snowy Shaw Collection Vol I.”

He shared:

“Shawsome!
The Snowy Shaw Collection Vol I.

…is a handpicked small selection of guest-star appearances, session work and various other one-off projects that I’ve done over the years. Carefully put together to create a good blend and collective overview of my work. Either as vocalist, drummer, bassist, guitarist, songwriter, arranger, producer or some kind of combination of the aforementioned.

(Note: I have purpously left out stuff where I ”only” play the drums… like I did with King Diamond, Mercyful Fate and Sabaton as well on numerous other recordings) Yep, I originally started out a drummer 45 years ago,..
but needless to say there’s been a helluva lot of water under the bridge since then, and a thousand bands and projects.. (almost)

Why the Hell am I doing this?
Well, at some point it was brought to my attention that I do appear on albums and recordings (more or less unknown and underground and with numerous bands & artists from all over the world) In all honesty, after all the years some of them had completely slipped my mind, which is a damn shame. But then I figured, if I can’t even remember them myself – Then what about my fans & followers?

Wouldn’t it be a great idea to make it available somehow and collect it all under the same roof, so to speak. On a limited edition compilation CD, or series of them.

Fuck Yeah! That’s an awesome idea! No, that is a Shawsome! idea.
Said and done, I got to it and started pulling all the strings (I’ll spare you all the boring details such as legal rights with record companies, managers, publicists, artists etc.) But to my great surprise they were all very accommodating and helpful and by their kind permission allowing me free reins.

Expect the unexpected – You’re in for one helluva ride!”

Snowy Shaw

Watch the clip of Snowy talking about the album, here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2470516373443592

“Shawsome! – The Snowy Shaw Collection Vol I.” will be released as a limited edition for fans and collectors.
Pre-orders are live now via https://www.snowyshaw.net, but the official release is not until July 25th. Vol 1 (of 3 in total) NOTE! Physical only.

More info:
https://www.facebook.com/SnowyShawOfficial
https://www.snowyshaw.net/

AMON AMARTH Release First-Ever Acoustic Song & Video ‘Upphaf’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on July 9, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: Amon Amarth. Leave a comment
Photo Credit: Sylwia Makris & Christian Martin Weiss

Iconic Swedish heavy metallers Amon Amarth approach a new way of songwriting on their first-ever acoustic excursion “Upphaf“. The song strips away the fury of modern melodic heavy metal to reveal the ancient, skeletal frame of a Norse epic. Reimagined for the gathering space of a longhouse hearth, the song features hypnotic melodies and mesmerising quires. The stripped-back composition carries the solemnity of an oral history whispered under the shadow of the Allfather, proving the band’s interest in Oden cuts just as deep by firelight as it does on epic global stages. The single serves as the quiet moment to what lies ahead, before the fury of their next studio album.

“Upphaf” was produced by Jacob Hansen and is available via Metal Blade Records across all digital retail alongside its video directed by Pavel Trebukhin.

Listen / Share / Playlist “Upphaf” HERE

From Amon Amarth‘s 1992 formation in Tumba, Sweden, to the worldwide fame they’ve found in the ensuing years, their lyrical, live and recorded musical legacy speaks for itself. Over the past few years the band have performed globally and alongside legendary acts such as Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, Foo Fighters, Pantera in addition to monumental sold out takeovers of Los Angeles’ The Forum and Denver’s historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre to name a few. Across seas, Amon Amarth have headlined multiple major rock and metal fests including an epic performance at Germany’s Wacken in 2024 for 85,000 rabid fans which was deemed “a 19-song masterclass in unbeatable, indefatigable force…a repertoire of songs that can conquer the biggest crowds on the planet,” by Louder. Elsewhere on UK/European soil, the Viking lords have twice headlined the UK’s storied Bloodstock festival, made four appearances at Download (2008 – 2019), and performed at Summer Breeze eight times (2003 – 2024) – six of them as headliner.

Their rapidly increasing sales and touring numbers, plus pre-release buzz to Amon Amarth‘s 2026 North American tour with Dethklok and Castle Rat, has managed to garner mainstream success without sacrificing either of their constantly evolving creativity or heaviness. Audience demographics run the gamut from pre-teens to 60-somethings, an inclusive metal experience for those who appreciate epic positivity and powerfully inspirational lyrics.

Amon Amarth continues to garner universal musical respect and reverence from fans and critics, and an ever-growing popularity in North America. In Europe, Amon Amarth reached #1 on German album charts with Jomsviking, Berserker, and 2022’s The Great Heathen Army also topped the US Billboard Hard Rock Albums chart, the Canadian Billboard Top Current Albums chart, and earned a Swedish Grammy nomination for hard rock/metal album of the year.

Their cultural influence cannot be overstated. To wit: The Row. The consensus is that the legendary “Viking row” by audience members first began during the 2009 Amon Amarth set at Bloodstock. Fans get on the ground and, in unison, imitate rowing an invisible longship in a powerfully unifying experience. With the 2022 release of the single and video “Put Your Back into the Oar,” frontman Johann Hegg said, “we thought it was a good idea to write a song about The Row! This one is for you, the fans, wherever you are-and may Oden guide you as you row to your destiny in uncharted seas!” The phenomenon has now spread to other artist’s’ concerts and global events including 2026 World Cup audiences – but thanks to video footage, it’s safe to say Amon Amarth audiences began the now-iconic trend.

Over 30 years later, Amon Amarth remains a band of brothers, and that loyalty and unity allow for harmony and a united front that conquers both the stage and record. Hegg’s powerfully rendered lyrics on last year’s “We Rule The Waves” sum up the band’s unrelenting intent. “From cradle until the grave / As long as the sun sets in the west / We rule the waves / Our restless hearts / Have brought us far / As far as Vinland’s shores / We’ve gone further / Than any man has ever gone before.”

Amon Amarth Live Dates:
UK:
Oct 09: England – Manchester, O2 Apollo
Oct 10: England – London, Eventim Apollo
Oct 11: England – Wolverhampton, Civic Hall
EU:
Oct 13: France – Paris, Zenith
Oct 14: Luxembourg – Esch sur Alzette, Rockhal
Oct 16: Germany – Stuttgart, Schleyer-Halle
Oct 17: Germany – Frankfurt, Festhalle
Oct 18: Belgium – Antwerp, Lotto Hall
Oct 20: Netherlands – Den Bosch, Mainstage
Oct 21: Germany – Hamburg, Sporthalle
Oct 23: Sweden – Gothenburg, Scandinavium
Oct 24: Sweden – Stockholm, Hovet
Oct 26: Finland – Helsinki, Ice Hall
Oct 27: Estonia – Tallin, Unibet Arena
Oct 29: Poland – Gliwice, PreZero Arena Gliwice
Oct 30: Germany – Leipzig, Quarterback Immobilien Arena
Oct 31: Germany – Oberhausen, Rudolf Weber Arena
Nov 02: Hungary – Budapest, Barba Negra
Nov 03: Austria – Vienna, Gasometer
Nov 04: Germany – Bamberg, Brose Arena
Nov 06: Czech Republic – Prague, O2 Universum
Nov 07: Germany – Berlin, Velodrom
Nov 08: Germany – Munich, Zenith
Nov 10: Italy – Milan, Alcatraz
Nov 11: Switzerland – Zurich, The Hall
Nov 13: Spain – Barcelona, Sant Jordi Club
Nov 14: Spain – Madrid, Vistalegre
Nov 15: Portugal – Lisbon, Sala Tejo

Amon Amarth Lineup:
Johan Hegg – Vocals
Olavi Mikkonen – Guitar
Johan Söderberg – Guitar
Ted Lundström – Bass
Jocke Wallgren – Drums

More info: Amon Amarth | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | X | YouTube

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