All the anger and the sense of oppression of the contemporary world that stifles individuality, in the delirium of capitalism where humanity and relationships become commodities. This is the scenario painted by MANILA HEMP in ‘Way Out,’ their new single, available today via Volcano Records & Promotion on all online platforms and YouTube. It comes with a video that captures all the sensations of a sharp and powerful song. Manila Hemp is an experienced and seasoned rock band.
With an impressive track record that has led them over the years to collaborate with the legendary American producer Steve Albini (Nirvana, The Pixies) and to complete an album at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London, Manila Hemp has recently joined the Volcano Records roster, announcing a series of singles and upcoming surprises in the coming months.
Listen to ‘Way Out,’ the new single by Manila Hemp, on Spotify, and watch the video below.
Visionary filmmaker, guitarist, and composer Kimmo Kuusniemi unveils a haunting reflection of our times with his latest endeavour, the ANCIENT STREAMING ASSEMBLY (ASA). This formidable cross-arts project, conceptualised by Kuusniemi and enhanced by the musical prowess of his sole permanent collaborator, internationally acclaimed violinist and ethnomusicologist Tuomas Rounakari, paints a somber picture of our world teetering on the edge of environmental collapse.
Kuusniemi’s past environmental pursuits since the 80s, from impactful documentaries to the globally resonant ‘Dream On’ project for World Wide Fund for Nature, converge in ASA with a sharper edge. Together with Rounakari’s immersion in ancient traditions, they craft a chilling reminder of our environment’s fragile state, urging society to tap into ancestral wisdom as a lifeline.
The initial offering from ASA is the eerily captivating song “Perpetuae Memoriae”, set against a dystopian backdrop. This composition not only demonstrates the collective brilliance of Kuusniemi and Rounakari’s combined talents but also shines a spotlight on Steve Di Giorgio, the iconic fretless bassist from the revered metal juggernaut, Testament.
“This video encapsulates the bleak landscape we’re navigating. ASA is an urgent wake-up call, a clarion cry, urging humanity to resonate with the harmonies of ancestral wisdom before we drift past the point of no return,” shares Kuusniemi.
The “Perpetuae Memoriae” serves as a precursor to ASA’s forthcoming environmental music documentary, hinting at the depth and passion that the team is channeling into their larger project.
However, ASA’s commitment extends beyond mere awareness. To bridge the gap between realisation and action, ASA highlights emblems of notable environmental charities at the end of their video. This gesture is designed to steer viewers towards meaningful channels of change, transforming awareness into tangible action.
Ancient Streaming Assembly beckons artists, environmentalists, and the global audience to confront this stark reality, seeking solace and guidance in the echoes of our ancient predecessors.
Witness the unsettling narrative of “Perpetuae Memoriae” and delve deeper into ASA’s grim vision by visiting:
For collaborations, inquiries, and more, please contact: Tarja Virmakari Press Media Officer ASA Team tarja@ancientstreaming.com
About Kimmo Kuusniemi
Finnish-born visionary, Kimmo Kuusniemi stands at the intersection of art, music, film, and environmental advocacy. In the late 1970s, Kuusniemi established the legendary band Sarcofagus. Blending progressive and experimental elements with heavy rock, Sarcofagus crafted a version of heavy metal that was distinctly ahead of its time. Always at the vanguard of innovation, Kuusniemi has consistently harnessed the latest technology to expand his artistic expression. In 1981, showcasing his forward-thinking prowess, Kuusniemi produced and directed a full album length broadcast quality music video for his third album, Kimmo Kuusniemi Band “Moottorilinnut”. Coincidentally, this was the same year MTV made its debut in the USA, signalling the onset of a new era for music and visual media. Though MTV was launching on the other side of the Atlantic, Kuusniemi’s ambitious project underscored his position at the forefront of the evolving music-video landscape.
In the 1980s, Kuusniemi ventured deeply into environmental film-making. He produced a series of informational short films and documentaries highlighting various environmental topics, aimed at educating and raising public awareness.
This commitment to environmental consciousness culminated in the 1991 with the Double Vision’s “Dream On” project—a compelling film and extended single produced for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). More than three decades ago, “Dream On” music video projected a cautionary tale of an impending environmental crisis. Disturbingly, the future once envisioned by the “Dream On” project has now become our present reality, showcasing humanity’s prolonged inaction. Following “Dream On”, Kuusniemi continued to make his mark in the realm of film and television. He produced several TV documentaries that achieved international distribution. Among his most notable works is the groundbreaking 8-hour adventure/history TV series, “Baltic Sea Adventure/Hunt For U479,” which garnered widespread acclaim and captivated audiences globally. Whether through his compelling documentaries, informational films, or innovative projects like the Ancient Streaming Assembly, Kuusniemi’s work continues to intertwine ancestral wisdom with the pressing concerns of the modern world. His efforts resonate with the imperative need to harmonise with nature, drawing insights from the past and weaving them into the tapestry of today’s narrative.
About Tuomas Rounakari
Diving deep into the archived recordings of Siberian shamans, Tuomas birthed the SHAMANVIOLIN performance. His art is deeply influenced by the historical wax-cylinder recordings made by Finnish ethnographer Kai Donner between 1912 and 1914, which highlighted extinct languages and forgotten songs. Tuomas’ field trip to Siberia in 2002 further immersed him in the indigenous Khanty and Forest-Nenets cultures, expanding his repertoire. A child prodigy on the violin, he always had an affinity for music that sent him into a trance state. Moving to New York City in 1998, Tuomas explored World music and recognized the value of oral traditions. This epiphany led him back to his Finnish roots, where he discovered the intersection of Siberian shamanic music with Finnish laments. By 2001, Tuomas was back in Finland, evolving his Shamanviolin performance and integrating his compositions with musical traditions from the Eurasian Arctic. This journey also led him to teach laments, revitalising this almost-extinct musical tradition. Today, Tuomas continues to travel the globe, performing with Shamanviolin, while also conducting workshops on shamanic traditions and music. As a current doctoral student at the Sibelius-Academy, he’s uniting traditions, times, and cultures, inviting all into a transcendent musical experience exclusively through the soundscapes of Shamanviolin.
About Steve Di Giorgio
In the vast spectrum of metal music, Steve Di Giorgio is a luminary, distinguished by his unparalleled mastery of the fretless bass. While he is prominently recognised for his pivotal contributions to the renowned metal band Testament, Steve’s virtuosity extends beyond. He showcased his adaptability as a session musician for Megadeth’s 2022 release, “The Sick, the Dying … and the Dead!” Over time, his collaborations with diverse bands and artists have underscored his stature as one of the metal realm’s most coveted bassists. Di Giorgio’s relentless pursuit of innovation, coupled with his unwavering dedication, cements his legacy as a stalwart in the ever-evolving heavy metal landscape.
“In the Eyes of God” is a captivating melodic death metal/folk metal composition that takes listeners on a sonic journey. The song’s atmosphere is reminiscent of a thrilling freefall, creating a sense of exhilaration and wonder. Lyrically inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy, the song delves into the nine spheres of heaven. “In the Eyes of God” showcases a powerful blend of melody, speed and heaviness, creating a memorable and engaging musical piece.
SYLVATICA have teamed up with Metal Shock Finland to premiere ‘In The Eyes Of God’ lyric video for Finland, enjoy it below.
Motivated by a desire to explore their own artistic style and venture into new territories, Sylvatica embarked on the creation of their third album, titled “Cadaver Synod”. This album delves into the dark tales of the Middle Ages, incorporating elements such as the haunting sounds of church organs, theremin, and Gregorian chants. The result is a set of gloomy and atmospheric compositions, enriched by the addition of Hammond organs and synthesizers, evoking a nostalgic 70s vibe with occasional doom influences. The production on this album is intentionally rawer compared to their previous works, emphasizing the organic and atmospheric aspects while embracing a more playful approach. Despite these changes, the band’s distinctive classic sound remains present, revitalized with a fresh and exciting twist.
Sylvatica has been creating captivating melodies and delivering breathtaking solos since 2009 when the band was formed by a group of childhood friends who were enamored with the folk-metal movement of the late 2000s. The band made their debut with the folk-infused EPs “Sagn & Sagaer” and “Mosemanden,” followed closely by the melodic death metal-inspired album “Evil Seeds.” During this period, they embarked on tours with renowned Danish folk-metal bands.
Having gained extensive experience from numerous concerts and studio sessions, the band released their refined album “Ashes and Snow” in 2021, receiving accolades from both Danish and international music publications. This album showcased exceptional Finnish-inspired melodic death metal, marking a significant milestone in Sylvatica’s career. Until now, when “Cadaver Synod” comes like a hurricane into Sylvatica’s discography.
“Cadaver Synod” will be released on LP (black vinyl, limited to 300) and digital formats via Mighty Music on October 20th, 2023.
Lineup: Jarden Schlesinger – vocals, guitar Thomas Haxen – bass Jacques Harm Brandt Hauge – drums Christian Christiansen – guitar
Indigenous black metal master Blackbraid is now sharing a lead guitar play-through for the song “The Wolf that Guides the Hunters Hand,” which is taken from the solo project’s brand new album, ‘Blackbraid II.’ The clip can be found at THIS LOCATION.
In addition, Blackbraid will be kicking off an extensive North American tour next week in support of Wolves in the Throne Room. The trek will kick off on September 29 in St. Louis and will then conclude nearly a month later on October 24 in Denver, CO. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.
‘Blackbraid II’ can now be streamed everywhere or ordered via Bandcamp or The Official Blackbraid MerchStore! The album is available on CD as a 6-panel digi-sleeve, cassette, and two vinyl variants – a marbled emerald green “Moss” edition and golden/earth marbled “Spirit” edition.
Blackbraidis 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
(Supporting Wolves in the Throne Room w/ Gaerea + Hoaxed)
West coast-based metal unit DEATH DEALER UNION – featuring frontwoman Lena Scissorhands of modern metal leaders INFECTED RAIN – will finally release their debut album, entitled Initiation, this Friday, September 22, 2023 via Napalm Records!
Following searing recent singles “The Vow of Silence“ and “The Integument“, today, the band has released a third single – the dynamic “ILL FATED”. The track juxtaposes 80s-influenced clean guitars and sinister metallic riffs as Lena displays her soaring trademark vocal delivery and introspective wordplay. The video features eye-catching imagery, sets and costumes, making for a striking viewing experience!
DEATH DEALER UNION says: “We wanted to present something a little different with this video – everything from the fantastic Cherry Bombs dance troupe to the actors involved. We sought to do something not usually done in heavy metal videos. Enjoy!”
In 2019, metal musicians CC McKenna (drums) and Doug Weiand (lead guitars) set forth on a dark musical path – aligning diverse metal influences with otherworldly channelings of alchemy, the occult and all things esoteric. Little did they know, the final ingredient of their impending amalgamation was on the horizon, set to emerge as DEATH DEALER UNION.
After meeting acclaimed frontwoman Lena Scissorhands, a musical pact was instantly formed – propelling the band into the studio with producer Valentin Voluta (also recognized for his work with Infected Rain). Now, with two new members – Hunter Havok (rhythm and lead guitars) and Jonny Heinz (bass) – in tow, the band is set to unleash their very first sacrificial offering to the masses, Initiation. The album brings forth the huge sound and exciting visuals fans experienced with the band’s debut offerings, plus an entire new trove of musical and lyrical elements. While no track is the replicant of another, they all weave a common thread of compelling essence that will have listeners clamoring to heed the word of DEATH DEALER UNION.
Initiation kicks off with its instrumental title track, droning deeply into electronic flourishes and spine-tingling organs. The track flows into first album single “The Vow of Silence” – a fast-paced burner featuring aggressive verses and a catchy chorus that fully showcases the album’s immense production, once again helmed by Valentin Voluta. “ILL FATED” juxtaposes 80s-influenced clean guitars and sinister metallic riffs as Lena Scissorhands displays her dynamic trademark vocal delivery and introspective wordplay. Tracks such as “Ekphrasis” and “Mythos” – the latter boasting one of the album’s most heart-stopping guitar solos – are rife with chunky 90s heavy metal and even nu-metal-inspired riffage. “The Big Blue”, “Back To Me”, “The Downfall” and “Anew” dance with metal styles ranging from symphonic power to progressive, showcasing the band’s diverse macrocosm of musical skill, before potent, heavy ballad “Love Me When I’m Ugly” provides heartfelt lyrics and melodies. Initiation ends with “Beyond Heaven”, an opus of expansive harmonies and eerie embellishments, closing the album with its most theatrical cut.
Find your own power within DEATH DEALER UNION – your Initiation is only the beginning!
Initiation track listing: 1. Initiation 2. The Vow of Silence 3. ILL FATED 4. Ekphrasis 5. The Integument 6. Mythos 7. The Big Blue 8. Back To Me 9. The Downfall 10. Love Me When I’m Ugly 11. Anew 12. Beyond Heaven
DEATH DEALER UNION is: Lena Scissorhands – Vocals CC McKenna – Percussion Doug Weiand – Lead Guitars Hunter Havokk – Rhythm & Lead Guitars Jonny Heinz – Bass
AUTARKH are known for hard-wiring extreme metal with glitchy electronica and IDM beats. But on the lead single from their new album, the Dutch band proved that they were human after all.
Where “Strife” found Autarkh locked in a battle with their inner demons, the new single off ‘Emergent’ reaches for inner peace.
“”Refocus” is the fifth track on ‘Emergent’, says guitarist and lead vocalist Michel Nienhuis. “It revolves around the will to return to the serene state of mind that opens the album”.
Watch the intense performance video for “Refocus” HERE, which was filmed, edited and animated by Spread Motion Design.
‘Emergent comes out November 10. Pre-order the album HERE. Pre-saveit HERE.
“Refocus” is still heavy. The song opens with a hammering computerized beat and riffs that chug with all the industrialized heft of an oil drill. Death growls stew in the air like flies, as if warning of what’s to come. It’s chaotic and overwhelming, almost too much to even bare. But after headbanging their way through another avalanche of a chorus, Autarkh break free. “The splendor of wholeness reinstated”, Nienhuis sings, backed by radiant harmonies.
“The clean vocals in Refocus were one of the hardest parts for me to record”, says Nienhuis. “But I’m really happy with how they turned out”.
Dutch contemporary metal adventurers Autarkh are back with their sophomore full-length album Emergent. Michel Nienhuis, founder of Autarkh and Dodecahedrom, teamed up again with guitarist/producer David Luiten (Inferum), bassist Desmond Kuijk (Dear Mother) and electronics wizard Tijnn Verbruggen to create the follow-up to their highly acclaimed debut album ‘Form In Motion’, released by Season Of Mist on 12 March 2021. Monica Kendrick (Chicago Reader, US) on the relevance of the group’s debut:
“And I’ll call it now: given the time to flourish and sink into the ears of an audience, Autarkh will become highly influential on the next generation of extreme metal.”
‘Emergent’ is another testament to Autarkh’s imagination and creativity. It delivers increased versatility and contrast, and sees the band expand towards more uplifting and consonant territories. Form In Motion explored the boundaries of sonic extremes; on ‘Emergent’, Autarkh broadens its horizon and shows diversity and nuance while preserving its intense and razor-sharp edge.
With nine tracks, ‘Emergent’ is a sonic exploration of the inner universe where all things light and dark can be encountered. The listener is lured into an “Open Focus” (a meditative state of mind) in preparation for an inward journey along the physical energy centers. From the thumping synth basses of “Strife” and the menacing sludgy melancholy of “Duhkha”, we move into the bewildering blasts of “Trek”, where stellar harmonies will eventually burst through the oppressive atmosphere. The trip continues with the crushing downtempo groove that enforces “Refocus”, as well as the mind-bending a capella interlude “Aperture” and the frivolous “Eye Of Horus” and “Countless Kaleidoscopes”, to finally deliver all-encompassing enlightenment with Ka.
Composers Nienhuis’s and Luiten’s statements and states of mind capture the same capriciousness and unease of ‘Form In Motion’, this time leaving a more open, diverse and radiant imprint. With exciting vocal harmonies, bold contrasts and a vivid imagination, Autarkh sheds a bright light on the inner self and exposes it to the world with intensity and conviction. That makes Emergent an evocative release with a multilayered yet crystal-clear production that promises a bright future for Autarkh.
Line-up: Michel Nienhuis: vocals & guitars David Luiten: vocals & guitars Desmond Kuijk: bass Tijnn Verbruggen: synths & beats
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
