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I Feel the Everblack Festering Within Me by Lorna Shore Review 2025

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Full disclaimer, I am not the biggest Deathcore fan or Death Metal fan. My knowledge on this music is limited compared to other sub genres of Metal. I love heavy, extreme, brutal music for the most part, but don’t often seek out Deathcore. Like many people, Lorna Shore is an exception however. I feel that Lorna Shore’s “To The Hellfire” is one of the most iconic Metal songs in two decades. This song is responsible for so many people getting in to this type of music, as evident on the comments on YouTube on the song and the Reaction videos. It’s not very often a Metal band goes viral for a good song, and Lorna Shore did this emphatically. That puts Lorna Shore in a very unique position in Extreme Metal or Deathcore to be on the world’s biggest stages. What they’ve done for the longevity of Metal is unprecedented. Between some of the most epic music we’ve ever heard and wholesome fan interactions that rival any VIP Experience, this band has a microscope put upon them by millions. This level of success has never been possible for this kind of music before Lorna Shore. I feel like there’s too many reasons to name to get into this band, even if they’re not typically your style of music. Their heartfelt, personal, uncensored, vulnerable lyrics combined with unrivaled technicality and an immersive ambience of descending into ethereal hell worlds is an experience like no other on the planet. Lorna Shore combines the lightness, the sensitivity and grandeur sounds of Classical Music with the most brutal Speed riffs and demonic sounds in a seemingly impossible feat. I don’t even know how this level of music is mixed, balanced, or played live on a regular basis. It’s like Dimmu Borgir, Death, Strapping Young Lad, and Vivaldi had a cursed offspring that bloomed into something beautiful. Whatever genre or style Lorna Shore is, it’s completely unexpected and so locked in that there’s nothing like it..

I wasn’t a fan of Pain Remains as much. Maybe I wasn’t in the right headspace to appreciate it, or maybe I just didn’t understand it. In time, I will probably come to love it when I come back around to it. My expectations for this new album were low. Heavy Music feels like it’s on a lull to me; most of it sounds like bands just going through the motions or heavy for the sake of being heavy with no purpose other than shock and brutal-ism. So the last thing I wanted was a Lorna Shore record in this point in time. I didn’t expect to like it or be able to even get through this album. “I Feel the Everblack Festering Within Me” is not even a shred of what I expected in the best way possible. I don’t review albums anymore unless it’s something innovative or thought provoking, and of course Lorna Shore achieved a spot on my blog. “I Feel the Everblack Festering Within Me” is an insane journey of sonic excellence. This album has everything I want in a Metal record, but at the highest level. The symphonic sounds are perfectly layered with the guitars from the incomparable Adam De Micco, who I think is one of the greatest guitarists of all time. The synths and orchestration is done by guitarist/bassist Andrew O’Connor and he did an impeccable job at it. The orchestration rivals any Symphonic Metal band in thirty years, and I mean that as a huge Symphonic Metal buff. I find “I Feel the Everblack Festering Within Me” to be more melodic and anthemic than any of their previous releases. Songs like Unbreakable, Glenwood, and Forevermore are gigantic songs that feel deserved of being played with a full orchestra and choir at Plovdiv or Sydney Opera House. Everywhere you think the album could go, it strafes and goes even grander. I am truly blown away by this album, which hasn’t happened this year by many releases for me. I never expected a Lorna Shore album to have a Celtic or Tolkien vibe to it. It works. The different sound to it freshens Lorna Shore’s sound in a way I didn’t expect. Listening to “I Feel the Everblack Festering Within Me” is an exhilarating and inspiring experience from beginning to end. There’s not a weak track. It is the most epic battle music. Every member is peak on this album. You will not be disappointed even as a first time listener. This is by far one of the greatest albums of the year and shockingly perfect from a band continually reinventing itself. Lorna Shore pushed every boundary, every theme, every ounce of their being with this album. Austin Archey on drums is always perfect, but this album is an unbelievable feat of Extreme Metal drumming that rivals anything else. He is a drummer for the ages. He doesn’t just blast, he utterly destroys laws of human anatomy and physics on every song. I cannot express how incredible he is. If nothing else, just listen to the drums on this record.

Overall, I do think this is Lorna Shore’s best album yet. It’s the most fully immersive and complete release I’ve heard since Ramos joined the band. Some of his demon noises get a bit repetitive and don’t really add much, but the technicality and uniqueness is surely a novelty. I think this album sets itself apart from any heavy record of the year, because it’s not just heavy for shock and awe. This level of brutality is well thought out, intentional, and meaningful. It is not for attention, it’s for art. It’s like the utter despair and pain Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy expressed in Extreme Metal form. It’s all class, no filler, and fantastic composition. If you’re a reader of this blog, you know how much I love “Wall of Sound” production style, and this album nails that completely deep and wide listening experience. The wall is an infinite abyss. It is a cacophony, and I absolutely love it. It doesn’t get any better than “I Feel the Everblack Festering Within Me” in 2025. This is a huge album of the year contender for me. No spoilers, but Forevermore might be one of my favorite songs of all time.

Links:

https://centurymedia.store/pages/lorna-shore-i-feel-the-everblack-festering-within-me

https://lornashoreband.com/

https://lornashoreband.com/pages/about

https://www.facebook.com/LornaShore

https://www.instagram.com/lornashore/

Rockers ALTER BRIDGE Return With Self-Titled Eighth Studio Album, Scheduled for Release on January 9, 2026 via Napalm Records

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Alter Bridge Now Available for Pre-Order in First Formats HERE

Band Announces 2026 European Headline “What Lies Within Tour” 
With Daughtry and Sevendust

Only ALTER BRIDGE Performance in 2025 to Take Place in Nashville, TN on October 1 at Tremonti Family Charity Golf Outing



Alter Bridge L to R: Scott Phillips, Myles Kennedy, Brian Marshall, Mark Tremonti 

Photo Credit: Chuck Brueckmann


With more than two decades performing together, acclaimed rockers ALTER BRIDGE show no signs of slowing down. Known for their memorable riffs, infectious vocal melodies and dueling guitar attack, the quartet comprised of Myles Kennedy on vocals/guitars, Mark Tremonti on guitars/vocals, Brian Marshall on bass and Scott Phillips on drums have garnered themselves massive critical and fan acclaim around the globe. The band looks to continue that trend when they release their self-titled, eighth studio album next year via Napalm Records. Alter Bridge will be released on January 9, 2026, and first physical formats are now available for pre-order.

Alter Bridge is comprised of 12 all new tracks from the band and features some of their most iconic moments on record. Songs like “Rue The Day,” “Disregarded” and “Scales Are Falling” will fit alongside any of the classic songs from ALTER BRIDGE’s catalog. “Trust In Me” shows Myles and Mark sharing vocal duties as Myles handles the verse duties while Mark takes the chorus. That strategy is flipped on “Tested And Able” as Mark handles the verses and Myles takes on the choruses behind one of the band’s heaviest intros to date, giving way to an unforgettable melody. “Hang By A Thread” is sure to become a show favorite as it hints at some of the most popular songs in the band’s catalog. Album closer “Slave To Master” is an epic track that ALTER BRIDGE has come to be known for and is the longest song the quartet has recorded to date.

The band worked with longtime collaborator and producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette on their eighth album. Alter Bridge was recorded over the course of two months this spring in the legendary 5150 studio in California and Elvis’ recording studio in Florida. 

Pre-Order the First Physical Formats of Alter Bridge HERE
More Formats Coming Soon!

Alter Bridge track listing:
1) Silent Divide (5:06)            
2) Rue The Day (4:46)
3) Power Down (4:08)
4) Trust In Me (4:48)
5) Disregarded (3:55)
6) Tested And Able (4:36)
7) What Lies Within (5:07)
8) Hang By A Thread (4:11)
9) Scales Are Falling (5:54)
10) Playing Aces (4:05)
11) What Are You Waiting For (5:00)
12) Slave To Master (9:03)

Alter Bridge is currently available for pre-order in the following formats:
-1-CD 6p Digisleeve, 12p Booklet
-2-LP Gatefold BLACK, Lyric Sheet
-2-LP Gatefold TRANSLUCENT VERDE – VETRI (INDIE exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold TRANSLUCENT VERDE – VETRI + autographed postcard (NEWBURY exclusive, limited to 50)
-1-CD 6p Digisleeve + autographed postcard (NEWBURY exclusive, limited to 250)
-2-LP Gatefold SPLATTERED BLACK SMOKE/ WHITE ORANGE BLACK, 12p Booklet (Napalm mailorder exclusive)
-2-LP BLACK, White Label Edition + hand-numbered Covercard (Napalm mailorder international-only exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold MARBLE COLORLESS BLACK & RED BLACK OLD PURPLE, 12p Booklet (Napalm exclusive)
-LP Box incl. 2-LP Gatefold SPLIT BLACK/MILK, 12p Booklet, 5-Tack Bonus Picture Vinyl in Plastic Sleeve, Artprint (Napalm mailorder international-only exclusive)
-1-CD 6p Digisleeve + “Hang By A Thread” Shirt Bundle (Napalm exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold SPLATTERED CRÈME BLACK, 12p Booklet (Band exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold MARBLE BLACK SMOKE, 12p Booklet (Band exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold CRISTALLO MILK GLITTER, Lyric Sheet (Band exclusive)
-1-CD Jewel Case (Ticket Bundle for Townsend exclusive) + Guitar Pick (Band exclusive)

To coincide with the announcement of the new album, ALTER BRIDGE will be touring in support of the release. The band is heading out on the What Lies Within Tour. The 31-date tour of Europe will kick off on January 15 in Germany before it wraps on March 5 in Nottingham, UK. Joining the band on the tour will be Daughtry and Sevendust. Public on sale for all shows is July 18. More information on all tickets and VIP packages for the upcoming tour can be found at http://www.alterbridge.com. 

European What Lies Within Tour 2026:
Jan 15 – HAMBURG, GERMANY – Sporthalle 
Jan 17 – OSLO, NORWAY – Sentrum Scene
Jan 18 – OSLO, NORWAY – Sentrum Scene
Jan 20 – STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – Annexet 
Jan 22 – HELSINKI, FINLAND – Ice Hall Black Box
Jan 24 – COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – KB Hallen
Jan 25 – BERLIN, GERMANY – Columbiahalle 
Jan 27 – GLIWICE, POLAND – Prezero Arena Gliwice
Jan 28 – BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – Barba Negra 
Jan 30 – VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Gasometer 
Jan 31 – ZAGREB, CROATIA – Bocarski Dom
Feb 02 – ROME, ITALY – Atlantico 
Feb 03 – BERGAMO, ITALY – ChorusLive Arena
Feb 05 – ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – The Hall
Feb 06 – LYON, FRANCE – Halle Tony Garnier
Feb 08 – BARCELONA, SPAIN – Razzmatazz 1
Feb 10 – LISBON, PORTUGAL – Sagres Campo Pequeno
Feb 12 – MADRID, SPAIN – Palacio Vistalegre
Feb 13 – BORDEAUX, FRANCE – Arkea Arena
Feb 15 – LUXEMBOURG, LUXEMBOURG – Rockhal 
Feb 17 – OBERHAUSEN, GERMANY – Oberhausen Turbinenhalle
Feb 18 – PARIS, FRANCE – Zenith 
Feb 20 – MUNICH, GERMANY – Zenith 
Feb 22 – AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – Ziggo Dome
Feb 23 – BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – Ancienne Belgique
Feb 25 – NEWCASTLE, UNITED KINGDOM – Utilita Arena 
Feb 26 – MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM – AO Arena
Feb 28 – DUBLIN, IRELAND – 3Arena 
Mar 02 – GLASGOW, UNITED KINGDOM – OVO Hydro 
Mar 04 – LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – The O2
Mar 05 – NOTTINGHAM, UNITED KINGDOM – Motorpoint Arena



ALTER BRIDGE will be reuniting for one show in 2025. The band will be doing a rare acoustic show on October 1 in Nashville, TN to support the Tremonti Family Charity Golf Outing. The outing is a benefit started by guitarist Mark Tremonti to support the National Down Syndrome Society – an organization close to Mark after his daughter Stella was born with Down syndrome. The event will raise money for NDSS – an organization that engages grassroots advocates at the federal, state, and local levels and creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan on topics including education, employment, health and wellness, and aging. Tickets for the event can be purchased at:

https://charity.pledgeit.org/rockforeDownsyndrome  

About ALTER BRIDGE:Back in 2004, four lifelong musicians got together down in Florida. Even though they had traveled separate paths, similar lessons learned, wisdom earned, and dues paid united these gentlemen—Myles Kennedy [vocals, guitar], Mark Tremonti [guitar, vocals], Brian Marshall [bass], and Scott Phillips [drums]—as ALTER BRIDGE. Over the ensuing two decades, the band endured countless trials and tribulations, defied every odd, and rose to the head of the pack as a hard rock juggernaut, cementing a singular legacy by selling out arenas, gathering nearly one billion streams, inciting international acclaim, and quietly attracting a diehard audience. Beginning with the Top 5 entry of 2004’s gold certified One Day Remains, the band have scored six consecutive Top 20 debuts on the Billboard 200. Among a myriad of highlights, Guitarist Magazine applauded “Blackbird” for the “Greatest Guitar Solo of All Time,” the ABIII single “Isolation” vaulted to #1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart, 2013’s Fortress received rare perfect scores from KERRANG! and Total Guitar, and Walk The Sky shook the Top Rock Albums Chart at #1. Beyond packing O2 Arena and Royal Albert Hall, Classic Rock hailed 2022’s Pawns & Kings as “the Rolls-Royce of ALTER BRIDGE records” in a 4.5-out-of-5-star review. Plus, the latter LP garnered praise from American Songwriter, Guitar World, and Loudwire, while Billboard christened them “one of America’s premiere hard rock quartets.” Channeling the same hunger, the band continue to push themselves on their self-titled eighth full-length offering, Alter Bridge [Napalm Records]. It embodies everything they’re known for such as the precise riffs, towering hooks, and solos that practically break guitar strings as they burst through the clouds.

ALTER BRIDGE online:
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
X
TIK TOK
NAPALM RECORDS

POWER TRIO FREEZE THE FALL RELEASE THE RED GARDEN EP & “ROT” MUSIC VIDEO

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Watch the “Rot” Music Video Here Hailing from Canada, power trio FREEZE THE FALL drop their highly anticipated sophomore EP, The Red Garden, and focus track “Rot”, now streaming everywhere today via 604 Records. Following a wave of momentum that has included thousands of fan votes, Okanagan Screen Awards, high-profile festival slots, sold out shows and a passionate fan base known as The Cold Front, the group takes a major leap forward with this concept driven release. Produced, mixed, and mastered by Jordan Chase and engineered by Colton Douglas at Oo-de-lally Recordings, The Red Garden EP expands Freeze the Fall’s sonic universe with an urgent sense of purpose, perspective, and head banging cuts. The Red Garden artwork was designed by Kevin Moore at Soft Surrogate (Spiritbox, Dance Gavin Dance, Falling in Reverse).

Stream “The Red Garden” EP & Focus Track “Rot” Here!

Watch the “Rot” Music Video Here!

Directed by Evan Riley Brown and Teddy Hillary at Orphanarium Productions “We are beyond excited for the world to hear The Red Garden,” shares the band. “This was such a fun project to work on. As our second EP, we had more opportunity this time around to really explore storytelling and combine our creative influences to create something that really represents us. This concept album explores various social issues that as young people we see play out every day around us, and that we are part of. We talk about social media, technology, the anonymity and falsities that creates, and the imbalance of power that can emerge through these issues. We hope that when fans listen to these songs they will find something in them to connect to, that is always what matters the most.”  The focus track, “Rot,” is a standout moment on the EP. A visceral and cutting reflection on the addictive nature of modern technology. It is a gripping, high energy cut that dissects our obsession with digital validation and the lies we’re fed online. With pummeling riffs and a searing vocal performance, it channels frustration into catharsis, perfectly capturing the EP’s themes of isolation and disillusionment. As the band explains, it’s “a song that shows the addictive nature of phones and how we’re blinded by the lies we consume on a daily basis. The majority of what distracts us is misinformative, and we are consumed by it. Opening the EP is “Denial,” a blistering one minute intro track that sets the tone with urgency and intent. Featuring thunderous drums, distorted textures, and a distorted spoken word passage, it acts as a call to arms launching listeners headfirst into the chaos and clarity that defines The Red Garden. Rounding out the emotional arc of the EP is “Lace.” The haunting closer brings the project full circle with a slow burning, cinematic soundscape. Its layered instrumentation and soaring finale unravel themes of vulnerability and emotional unraveling, leaving listeners with a lasting sense of both devastation and hope. The Red Garden’s four previous singles “Oub“Hypothermia,” and “VHS” showcase Freeze the Fall’s evolution in both sound and storytelling. “Oubliette,” a tightly crafted cut added to CBC Music’s Canadian Metal, blends aggressive riffs with haunting lyricism as it explores the desire to return to a simpler time, asking whether we all wish to preserve a younger version of ourselves. “Aurora” is an anthemic reminder of our shared human experience, calling for connection over division, while “Hypothermia”, named as one of Revolver Magazine’s “6 Best New Songs,” tackles the cold reality of online anonymity and the exhausting pursuit of perfection in digital spaces. “VHS” explores the corruptive allure of power and how easily people fall into cycles of blind allegiance and manipulation. Together, these tracks represent an intense, raw, and emotionally resonant shift marked by the EP’s cold, isolating atmosphere, post-metal textures, and soaring, cathartic instrumentation. Despite only releasing their debut EP Thrones in 2024, Freeze the Fall has built an incredibly passionate and dedicated fanbase, dubbed The Cold Front, across Patreon, Discord, and YouTube, which includes over 600 YouTube reactions. Freeze the Fall received thousands of fan votes to secure a spot at Laketown Ranch, where they’ll share the stage with mega acts like Nickelback, The Glorious Sons, and Sam Roberts Band in August. In addition to this, the group’s highly cinematic music videos won two Okanagan Screen Awards earlier this year, and the trio’s first Toronto headline show at NXNE sold out with fans flying in from Philly, New Mexico, Montreal and more.  See Freeze the Fall Live:
Tickets & Info: https://freezethefallband.com/upcoming-shows

June 27 – EP Release Party @ The Fox Cabaret – Vancouver, BC
August 9 – Laketown Ranch – Lake Cowichan, BC with Nickelback, The Glorious Sons & Sam Roberts Band
September 20 – Great Canadian Casino – Vancouver, BC with Toque


More on Freeze the Fall
Welcome to The Cold Front. You say “loud,” Freeze the Fall says, “How loud?” These hard rockers are not playing when it comes to their music or their message. Featuring Quinn Mitzel on guitar and lead vocals, Aria Becker on bass and backup vocals, and Jonah Goncalves on drums, the band fuses angsty guitar riffs, wildly technical bass lines, and powerful drum fills—tied together with soulful melodies and storytelling that keeps fans theorizing what’s next.

Follow Freeze the Fall Online: Website: https://freezethefallband.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freeze.the.fall.band/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freeze_the_fall_band/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freeze_the_fall_band YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@freeze_the_fall_band/  

Follow 604 Records Online:
Website: https://www.604records.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/604records Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/604recordsinc/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/604records  

Band Photo By: Gerry Diaz @realgerrydiaz 

New Heavy Music Report of the Week

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It has been a hell of a month for me personally. Life has its ups and downs and endless battles, but music is always my shield wall or barrier for all the trials in life. Music is what drives me to rise above it all and continue to fight for a better life. I dread to think what the darkest times would be like without it. While I usually go to my comfort bands during these times, I also like to keep up to date on the world of Metal. And, it’s been a whirlwind of impactful releases and fresh takes in the music industry. Below, I have compiled some of my favorite releases these past two weeks. After I finish this, I will be working on the next installation of my favorite Heavy Metal albums to try to finish up the series. From there, I will go on to discuss my favorite Heavy Metal and Rock songs of all time.

Symphonic Progressive Metal Band Epica Stuns With “Aspiral”

“Aspiral” is a Progressive Symphonic Journey for the ages. It is bold, loud, and tastefully produced. Finally, it’s an Epica album you can hear each member shine on. Each member of Epica has different influences and techniques that attribute to the band’s signature sound. But those individuality qualities have been quite foreshadowed by fifty layers of orchestra and choir that sometimes make me forget they have one of the greatest lead singers in Metal. “Aspiral” is a peak of Epica and Simone Simons’ career. You can finally hear her beautiful Soprano vocals with perfect timbre and intonation. Her Prog writing style also gets to shine on this record. It is one of my top five Favorite Epica records and will be on regular rotation. This is definitely an album of the year contender.

Check out the latest single from “Aspiral”

Order Aspiral: https://epica.indiemerch.com/

Classic Melodeath Band Arch Enemy Freshens the Genre with “Blood Dynasty”

International Melodeath trailblazers Arch Enemy are back with the bombastic “Blood Dynasty”. This album is a surprising fresh take on classic Arch Enemy sounds without delving into thew commercialism. It’s gritty, dark, and moody as ever. My hopes for this album based on the first two singles were low, but Blood Dynasty grabbed me instantly. This is such a departure from Deceivers, which continued the more formulaic sound of War Eternal. While I loved those albums still, I desperately wanted a Classic Arch Enemy album with Amott’s more Thrash style riffs. Blood Dynasty delivers on all fronts, and really pulled me in upon first listen. This is one of AE’s most encapsulating releases of the diverse and long catalog. It is a complete thrill to experience.

One of my favorite songs from Arch Enemy’s career.

Order “Blood Dynasty” Here: https://linktr.ee/blooddynasty

New Video From Legendary band MESSA

Order “The Spin” Here: https://www.metalblade.com/messa/

About MESSA; https://www.metalblade.com/messa/#bio

New Live Video Clip From “An Evening With” Haken

Order An Evening With and Discover More Haken Here: https://hakenmusic.com/

Doom Metal Epic Featuring the Famous Heiki Langhans

Taken from the album “We, The Dead” to be released on May 9, 2025 by Meuse Music Records.

Instrumental Post Rock Stun with New Gorgeous Track

Preorders Available here: https://www.welostthesea.com/

Brand New Power Metal Track Speeds With Classic Blind Guardian-esque vox

Swedish Melancholic Rock Legends Return With Doomy Prog Track

Order their new album here; https://lnk.to/KAT-NAEOTWS

TechDeath Juggernauts Release New Track with Legend

shadowofintent.com

Swedish Proggers Release Chaotic New Deftones Influnced Track

Order their new album here: https://www.vildhjartastore.com/product-category/dar-skogen-sjunger-preorder/

Melodeath Power Group Release New Single and new Album

What new releases did I miss? What have you been spinning lately? Let me know below in the comments!

CANDLEMASS Celebrates 40th Anniversary With New EP, “Black Star”, Out May 9, 2025

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40 Years of Doom!

 CANDLEMASS Celebrates 40th Anniversary With New EP,
Black Star, Out May 9, 2025 via Napalm Records
Pre-Order Starts NOW
 
Watch the Anniversary Trailer HERE
[photo credit: Linda Åkerberg]
Swedish godfathers of epic doom CANDLEMASS celebrate their 40th anniversary of pioneering the genre with a four-track EP, Black Star. Packed with craterous riffs, this celebration of doom metal mastery is set for release on May 9, 2025 via Napalm Records.
 
With Black Star, the genre-defying band unveils two brand-new songs alongside two cover versions of timeless classics. The EP will be available in various formats, including a strictly limited vinyl edition featuring a 12-page vinyl booklet, an A3 poster, and a tote bag.
 
CANDLEMASS mastermind Leif Edling comments:
“Not all bands get to see their 40th birthday and it certainly hasn’t been an easy ride. But many ups and downs later, we stand here as survivors, veterans even… a bit scarred perhaps? Still ready though to unleash another piece of doom-laden metal upon an unsuspecting world. You have to do something when you turn 40, right? Anyway, as always, it’s been fun recording some new stuff as well as covering a couple of old favorites.”

Title track, “Black Star”, blends haunting melodies with deeply introspective lyrics, brought to life by the dark, romantic voice of vocalist Johan Länquist. Songwriter Leif Edling’s lyrics delve into themes of existential struggle, temptation, and the allure of darkness — creating an intense atmosphere imbued with CANDLEMASS’ signature sound. The second new track, “Corridors Of Chaos”, marks a true old school instrumental containing both classic metal riffing and stunning guitar playing by Lars Johansson, showcasing the band’s mastery of dynamics. Adding to this tribute, CANDLEMASS delivers a cover of Black Sabbath’s iconic “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath”, taking listeners back to 1973. This is followed by their rendition of Pentagram’s classic “Forever My Queen”, further cementing CANDLEMASS’ remarkable contribution to shaping the genre into what it is today.
Prepare for 40 years of epic doom and watch the
anniversary trailer NOW:
Black Star tracklist:
1. Black Star
2. Corridors Of Chaos
3. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
4. Forever My Queen
Black Star will be available in the following formats:
1LP Gatefold BLACK ORANGE SPLATTER (incl. vinyl booklet (12pp), A3 poster, tote bag) – Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive, strictly limited to 400 copies
1LP Gatefold BLACK
1CD Digisleeve
Digital Album

[1LP Gatefold BLACK ORANGE SPLATTER (incl. vinyl booklet (12pp), A3 poster, tote bag) –
 Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive, strictly limited to 400 copies]


Get your copy of Black Star HERE:
CANDLEMASS Live 2025
20.-21.06.25 DE – Daun Rengen / Der Detze Rockt
25.06.25 NO – Oslo / Tons of Rock
04.07.25 TR – Istanbul / Headbangers Weekend
20.07.25 IT – Cremona / Luppolo In Rock Festival
30.07.-02.08.25 NO – Bergen / Beyond the Gates Festival
08.-09.08.25 FI – Helsinki / Helsinki Metal Festival
08.-10.08.25 BE – Kortrijk / Alcatraz
12.-13.09.25 GR – Athens / Rock Hard Festival
01.11.25 SE – Stockholm / Berns
06.12.25 UK – Wolverhampton / Bloodstock Winter Gathering
 
CANDLEMASS are:
Johan Länquist – Vocals
Lars Johansson – Lead Guitar
Mappe Björkman – Rhythm Guitar
Leif Edling – Bass
Janne Lind – Drums
 
CANDLEMASS online:
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
WEBSITE
NAPALM RECORDS

Press Release: VISIONS OF ATLANTIS Announce Physical Edition of Live Album, Armada Live Over Europe, out July 4, 2025 via Napalm Records

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VISIONS OF ATLANTIS Announce Physical Edition of Live Album, Armada Live Over Europe, out July 4, 2025 via Napalm Records | Pre-Order HERE!
 
Electrifying Live Video for “Armada” Unveiled | Watch HERE!
 
On Extended North America Tour in April!
[photo credit: Robert Eikelpoth, edited by Blake Armstrong]
Pirates never rest, nor do the raging seas! Following the triumphant release of Pirates II – Armada and the ongoing success of their Armada Live Over Europe series, international symphonic metal frontrunners VISIONS OF ATLANTIS set sail once again with their brand-new live video, “Armada”, recorded during their electrifying performance in Graz, Austria. The new video is part of their exciting the digital live series Armada Live Over Europe. By releasing live songs and videos over the past weeks, the quintet has kept excitement levels at an all-time high. Now, the digital series culminates in the live album Armada Live Over Europe set for release via Napalm Records on July 4, 2025. The live album captures the explosive energy of a VISIONS OF ATLANTIS live show, allowing listeners to relive the incomparable spirit of their recent tour from the comfort of home.
 
2024 was a triumphant year for the international symphonic metal frontrunners VISIONS OF ATLANTIS. The release of their latest full-length album, Pirates II – Armada, marks the band’s most successful record to date, climbing to top positions on international charts, including #5 on the German and Austrian Official Album Charts, #4 on the UK Rock & Metal Charts, and #2 on the US Hard Music Album Charts, to name a few. The summer and fall were filled with extensive touring, enchanting their devoted fans across Europe and the UK.
 
For fans in North America, the live album will be the perfect way to warm up for VISIONS OF ATLANTIS’ upcoming tour, taking place in April 2025. Tickets for this adventurous ride are on sale now, and fans won’t want to miss the unique VIP upgrade, which includes an exclusive acoustic set performed for a small audience before the show—creating memories to last a lifetime!
 
Pirate Queen Clémentine states:
“Today we end this wonderful live series with our battle chant! For so many weeks, we have had great pleasure gathering online with our sailors, sharing memories and anecdotes from our latest European Armada tour. Now, we are looking ahead to the next adventure appearing on the horizon: the North American Armada tour! We’re very excited to bring our tales again to the other side of the Atlantic. See you very soon!”
“High drama, hard-hitting heaviness, and gentle, spinetingling beauty. Visions of Atlantis have proven that ‘pirate metal’ is much more than a silly gimmick.”
– Metal Hammer, 2024 VISIONS OF ATLANTIS deliver tales of high-seas adventure through cinematic symphonic metal anthems, swiftly rising as high as a Jolly Rancher flag since the band’s humble beginnings in August 2000. Since the band’s inception, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS has boasted dual vocal power from a male and female vocalist, co-captained today with Clémentine Delauney and Michele Guaitoli at the helm. Both possess captivating range, seamlessly switching from intimate melody to soaring operatic thunder.
 
Christian Douscha’s guitar work helps forge a brilliant future for the symphonic metal genre. Nintendo-obsessed Herbert Glos punctuates the proceedings with bass lines as rhythmic as the sea. Steady band cofounder and drummer Thomas Caser anchors the sound with powerful percussion.
 
Songs like “Melancholy Angel”, “Clocks”, “Legions of the Seas” and “Master of the Hurricane” helped establish the band as symphonic metal royalty. Through their pair of critically acclaimed masterworks, Pirates (2022) and Pirates II—Armada (2024), the band took listeners on immersive adventures. Each swashbuckling track serves as a metaphor for perseverance, passion, and emotion.
 
The Pirates era is majestically celebrated across the multipart Armada Live Over Europe (2025). Culled from professional recordings captured at multiple tour stops, the collection showcases VISIONS OF ATLANTIS’ visceral prowess, power, and dynamic connection to its loyal audience.
 
Kicking off with its title track and standout song, “Return to Lemuria”, The Deep & The Dark (2018) introduced Delauney, Douscha, and Glos to fans worldwide. Guaitoli completed the band’s best-known lineup on Wanderers (2019), which featured massive fan-favorite anthems, including “Heroes of the Dawn,” “A Journey to Remember” and “Nothing Lasts Forever.” 
 
The new era began in earnest with Pirates. “They build the perfect musical platform for one of the finest dual vocal performances I have ever heard,” wrote Metal Rules in a 5/5 review. Praise for Pirates II – Armada was similarly enthusiastic from Metal Hammer and Distorted Sound. “Over 25 years and eight studio albums, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS have established themselves as the pristine epitome of symphonic metal,” wrote Blabbermouth. “Setting sail has seldom been more entertaining.”
 
VISIONS OF ATLANTIS continue to captivate Europe and North and South America with each successive trek- whether headlining or performing at major festivals like Wacken, Bloodstock, ProgPower USA, the 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise, and the Sabaton Cruise. Armada LIVE Over Europe is a masterclass in performance and a harbinger of the adventures to come for VISIONS OF ATLANTIS. All aboard!
 
Vocalist Clémentine about the album:
“We’re delighted to keep the magic of our live shows alive with this long-awaited release! Now, everyone who has attended one or more shows on our 2024 ARMADA tour can relive the experience at home. We love how our songs from our latest albums are energized and empowered by the live conditions and how the crowd becomes a part of the show, singing and chanting with us all along. This was definitely a tour to remember for us, and we are very happy to have this record as a lifetime souvenir.”
Make sure to pre-order your copy (physical edition) of Armada Live Over Europe HERE!
[Earbook 36p]VISIONS OF ATLANTIS live: 
Armada Over North America
02.04.25 US – Mechanicsburg / Lovedrafts
03.04.25 US – Baltimore / Ottobar
04.04.25 US – Pittsburgh / Preserving Underground
05.04.25 US – New York / Meadows
06.04.25 US – Cambridge / Middle East
08.04.25 CA – Quebec City / La Source Martinière
09.04.25 CA – Toronto / Lee’s Palace
10.04.25 US – Detroit / The Sanctuary
11.04.25 US – Joliet / The Forge
12.04.25 US – St. Paul / Turf Club
14.04.25 CA – Edmonton / Starlite
15.04.25 CA – Calgary / Dickens
16.04.25 US – Seattle / El Corazon
17.04.25 US – Portland / The Bossanova Ballroom
18.04.25 US – San Francisco / DNA Lounge
19.04.25 US – Los Angeles / Whisky A Go Go
21.04.25 US – San Diego / Brick By Brick
24.04.25 US – Las Vegas / The Usual Place
25.04.25 US – Phoenix / The Rebel Lounge
26.04.25 US – Salt Lake City / Soundwell
27.04.25 US – Denver / Oriental Theater
28.04.25 US – El Paso / Rockhouse Bar & Grill
29.04.25 US – Dallas / Granada Theater
 
VIP Upgrades are available for every show!
Tickets & VIP Upgrades available HERE

European Summer Shows:
16-17.05.25 DE – Runkel / Pirate Fest
26-28.06.25 RO – Mangalia / Odyssea Rock Fusion Fest
28.06.25 CH – Grenchen / Summerside Festival
30.06.25 IT – San Polo d’Enza / Bilbao*
03.07.25 DE – Nuremberg / Hirsch*
02-05.07.25 DE – Ballenstedt / RockHarz Festival
06.07.25 NL – Helmond / Pirate Metal Party
08.07.25 DE – Memmingen / Kaminwerk*
09.07.25 SI – Ljubljana / Kino Siska*
14-16.08.25 CZ – Moravský Krumlov / Rock Castle Festival
16.08.25 DE – Regensburg / Summerstage Eventhall
30.08.25 AT – Graz / Metal on the Hill
24.09.25 FI – Tampere / Olympia
25.09.25 FI – Helsinki / Korjaamo
(* supporting Gloryhammer)


VISIONS OF ATLANTIS are:
Clémentine Delauney – Vocals
Michele Guaitoli – Vocals
Christian Douscha – Guitars
Herbert Glos – Bass
Thomas Caser – Drums
 
VISIONS OF ATLANTIS online:
NAPALM RECORDS
WEBSITE
INSTAGRAM
FACEBOOK
X

Austrian All-Woman Hard Rock Powerhouse VULVARINE Unveils New Single “The Drugs, the Love and the Pain”

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Official news from Napalm Records!

[Photo credit: Mark Morgan]

Get ready for a firestorm of hard rock fury! Fierce Austrian hard rockers VULVARINE are set to shake things up with their new single and album opener, “The Drugs, the Love and the Pain”, taken from their upcoming studio album, Fast Lane, out on March 28, 2025 via Napalm Records!

“The Drugs, the Love and the Pain” kicks off VULVARINE’s album with an electrifying fusion of punk attitude, hard rock grit, and heavy metal intensity. Bursting with raw energy and rebellious spirit, the track delivers soaring melodies and hard-hitting riffs that embody the highs and lows of euphoria, chaos, and resilience. With its anthemic hooks and relentless drive, this powerhouse sets the tone for an adrenaline-fueled ride through the band’s bold and unapologetic sound.

The track debuts just in time for VULVARINE to bring their signature rock’n’roll to cities across Europe on the second leg of Thundermother’s Dirty & Divine tour, also featuring Napalm Records label mates Cobra Spell.
 
VULVARINE on their new single “The Drugs, the Love and the Pain”:
“The song takes you on a ‘rock ‘n’ roller coaster ride’ between euphoria and chaos, exploring where these emotions come from – be it substance abuse, heartbreak, or inner struggles. It resolves with a message of hope, reminding us that all feelings are temporary and will eventually lead to a brighter, clearer state of mind.”
Check out “The Drugs, the Love and the Pain” HERE:
Influenced by bands such as Girlschool, The Runaways and The Donnas, VULVARINE defines their own sound as “vulvarock”: a unique fusion of high energy rock’n’roll, heavy metal and glam, topped up with punk and blues elements. Following their debut album, Unleashed (2020), and the 2023’s Witches Brew EP, on Fast Lane, VULVARINE head full speed into a new adventure filled with adrenaline and authenticity.
 
VULVARINE on the new album:
“Fast Lane captures the whirlwind of creativity and energy that has driven us as a band. The album came together in an intense but exciting process, where we pushed our limits, worked with incredible people, and poured everything we had into the music. Signing with Napalm Records is a huge milestone, and we’re ready to hit the fast lane and dive headfirst into this new adventure.”
While remaining uncompromising and real, VULVARINE impresses with a variety of soundscapes on Fast Lane. The explosive opening track “The Drugs, the Love and the Pain” sets the scene for the rest of the album: rebellious, action-packed, raw, punky – and irresistibly catchy. “Ancient Soul” shows the softer side of VULVARINE while “Demons” dives into darker waters. VULVARINE’s strong rhythm section shines especially bright on “Alright Tonight”, and “Equal, Not the Same” is particularly refreshing and empowering. “Fool”, co-written with German producer Felix Heldt (Dominum, Feuerschwanz, Visions Of Atlantis), surprises with a different tone while remaining true to the sound and spirit of the band. “Polly the Trucker” is an ode to the highway, a classic rock’n’roll anthem with a modern touch, featuring raspy vocals and incredible guitars. VULVARINE brings in yet another highlight with an electrifying cover of Modern Talking’s “Cheri Cheri Lady”, featuring a powerful guitar solo from Thundermother’s Filippa Nässil, before wrapping the album up with pensive track “She’ll Come Around”.
 
On Fast Lane, VULVARINE soars to the next level with both songwriting and high-quality production without losing their edge. The album was produced in Vienna and Wiener Neustadt as a collaboration of three different producers: Thomas Zwanzger of Stressstudio, Dietmar Baumgartner of Sonar Music Productions and Engel Mayr (formerly of Russkaja) of Studio Mäusepalast, resulting in a cohesive work and VULVARINE’s strongest album yet. Fast Lane is a multifaceted and honest high-octane rock’n’roll extravaganza with no filler: the 11-track offering is packed with the very best of one of the most promising bands in the scene.
 Fast Lane tracklisting:
1. The Drugs, the Love and the Pain
2. Ancient Soul
3. Heads Held High
4. Demons
5. Alright Tonight
6. Equal, Not the Same
7. Fool
8. Polly the Trucker
9. Dark Red
10. Cheri Cheri Lady (feat. Filippa Nässil)
11. She’ll Come Around
 
Fast Lane will be available in the following formats:
1-LP Translucent Orange – ltd. to 400 copies worldwide
1-CD Digisleeve
Digital Album

Pre-Order your copy of Fast Lane NOW:
[1-LP Translucent Orange – ltd. to 400 copies worldwide]
VULVARINE live 2025:
 
Dirty & Divine Tour EU/UK – Supporting Thundermother
w/ Cobra Spell
21.03.25 DE – Leipzig / Hellraiser
22.03.25 DE – Berlin / Festsaal Kreuzberg
23.03.25 PL – Warsaw / Niebo
25.03.25 CZ – Prague / Strom Club
26.03.25 HU – Budapest / Barba Negra Blue Stage
28.03.25 AT – Vienna / Szene Wien
29.03.25 DE – Munich / Backstage
30.03.25 CH – Pratteln / Z7 Konzertfabrik
01.04.25 DE – Aschaffenburg / Colos-Saal
02.04.25 DE – Bochum / Zeche
04.04.25 DE – Obertraubling / Airport-Eventhall
05.04.25 DE – Hanover / Capitol
06.04.25 NL – Utrecht / Tivoli Vredenburg – Pandora
 
Festivals 2025:
21.06.24 AT – Ried im Innkreis / KiK Open Air Festival
23.07.24 SI – Tolmin / Tolminator Festival

VULVARINE are:
Bea Heartbeat – Drums
Robin Redbreast – Bass
Sandy Dee – Guitar
Suzy Q – Vocals

VULVARINE online: 
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
NAPALM RECORDS

Canadian Melodic Metallers Lutharo Announce New Album and Release New Single

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LUTHARO Announces New Album Chasing Euphoria, Releases New Single
Watch “Time To Rise” HERE
Melodic metal outfit LUTHARO returns with a cacophony of all that is metal! The Canadian metallers bring forth their signature mixture of traditional heavy metal, melodic death metal, thrash metal and more on their latest effort, Chasing Euphoria, the follow-up to their critically lauded debut full-length Hiraeth. Due out March 15th 2024 via Atomic Fire Records, Chasing Euphoria is as destructive and violent as it is soaring and captivating. Pre-orders are available HERE. 

Today the band has also shared a new single and video for “Time To Rise.” The video is an intimate look inside behind the scenes at the band’s practice and rehearsal. 

The band elaborates on the album: “We are beyond excited to finally announce our second full length album “Chasing Euphoria” will be released on March 15th 2024! This album is very near and dear to our hearts as it has brought out the most emotion in us to date! We laughed, we cried and we put everything we have into this album. So when you listen to these songs, know you are taking a piece of us with you.”

And of the single, they share: “We are incredibly eager to finally introduce to the world our newest single “Time to Rise”. This one is a doozy. This song is not only one of the most emotional we’ve written but has pushed us FAR out of our comfort zone in so many ways. This song has endless layers to it but its most dominant subject matter is inner child trauma and how it affects us in adult life especially when it isn’t resolved or acknowledged. We hope that through this song our listeners can begin a learning journey just as we have through this writing process. To anybody reading this remember to give yourself some grace, you and the younger version of you deserve it.”

Chasing Euphoria features dynamic production from Lasse Lammert of LSD Studios (ALESTORM, GLORYHAMMER, WIND ROSE, SVARTSOT & more!) and striking cover art from Niklas Sundin (ARCH ENEMY, DARK TRANQUILLITY, DELAIN, & more!), with orchestral arrangements from Elliot Vernon (ALESTORM).

ABOUT LUTHARO: Formed in 2014, LUTHARO strive to sculpt an epic sound that sees aspects of power and death colliding, combining artfully crafted melodies, harmonies and precision with hard-hitting power and force. Members Krista Shipperbottom (vocals), Victor Bucur (guitar), John Raposo (guitar), Chris Pacey (Bass) and Cory Hofing (drums) may have found their groove on this new record, but don’t expect them to fall into a rut. LUTHARO opens the throttle all the way and barrels forward into new territories.
 
After releasing two EPs, LUTHARO pulled out all the stops on Hiraeth, the debut full-length album that was released on October 15th, 2021. Following their 2018 debut EP UNLEASH THE BEAST, and 2020 EP WINGS OF AGONY, Hiraeth saw the quintet push their compositional and performance skills further than ever before. What Hiraeth brought forth, Chasing Euphoria now amplifies. Expertly balancing hauntingly beautiful atmospheres with raw power and aggression. A fantastically epic journey that needs to be experienced to be believed.
 
Recorded by drummer Cory Hofing at Coho Studio, with additional recording by Thomas Ireland and mixing and mastering by Lasse Lammert of LSD Studio, Chasing Euphoria is out March 15th, 2024, via Atomic Fire Records. The band partnered with Niklas Sundin for the stunning artwork featured on the cover. 
 
Prepare your necks for a maelstrom of windmills as Chasing Euphoria is certain to provoke headbanging, boisterous pits and chanting singalongs. An aggressive touring schedule will give you plenty of opportunity to join them for an electrifying evening as the riffs and raucous beats pummel you. 
 
Shipperbottom’s earth-shaking vocal performance is impossible to ignore, from her thorny growls to soaring falsettos. – Metal Injection
 
…The Canadians’ self-released debut album is a primarily traditional metal record with bags of melody, shitloads of muscular power and large amounts of virtuoso musicianship….Bridging the gap between ancient and modern with admirable skill, LUTHARO have dropped one of this year’s most vital debuts. – Blabbermouth
 
Gatling gun riffage glues the listener to the wall, practically challenging you not to get out of your seat and bang that head, while huge melodies soar and dive in and out of that furious wall of noise. – Metal Observer

Chasing Euphoria Tracklist: 

  1. Gates of Enchantment    
  2. Reaper’s Call    
  3. Ruthless Bloodline    
  4. Time to Rise    
  5. Born to Ride    
  6. Bonded to the Blade    
  7. Chasing Euphoria    
  8. Creating a King    
  9. Strong Enough to Fall    
  10. Paradise or Parasite    
  11. Freedom of the Night
Lutharo Is:
Krista Shipperbottom – Vocals
Victor Bucur – Guitars, backing vocals
Chris Pacey – Bass
Cory Hofing – Drums
Jeff Wilson – Guitar (Live)

Connect with Lutharo HERE or at one of the links below:
Bandcamp: https://lutharoband.bandcamp.com/album/hiraeth
Website: https://www.lutharo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LutharoOfficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lutharo_official/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lutharoband
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/38RQwSDbSq8ztizimX2vYp
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LutharoOfficial
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lutharo_official